Book review: ‘The Ultimate Guide to Power & Influence’ by Robert L. Dilenschneider

‘The Ultimate Guide to Power & Influence’ is the new book by Robert L. Dilenschneider. Photo: Amazon

Robert L. Dilenschneider started in public relations in 1967 in New York, shortly after receiving an MA in journalism from Ohio State University, and a BA from the University of Notre Dame. He formed The Dilenschneider Group in October, 1991. The Firm provides strategic advice and counsel to Fortune 500 companies and leading families and individuals around the world, with experience in fields ranging from mergers and acquisitions and crisis communications to marketing, government affairs and international media. Dilenschneider was with that organization for nearly 25 years. He is the author of “The Public Relations Handbook,” “The Critical First Years of Your Professional Life,” “50 Plus!: Critical Career Decisions for the Rest of Your Life,” and numerous other books on career and professional development. In his new book “The Ultimate Guide to Power & Influence: Everything You Need to Know,” he explains how technology and globalization have revolutionized the ways to both build and keep success—and tells readers that to accomplish your goals, you must not only gain power, but also apply it with proper wisdom. (Amazon, 2023)

“The Ultimate Guide to Power & Influence” arms you with intellectual, technical, and moral weapons—tools needed to get and stay ahead in the increasingly competitive and ever-evolving business world. Acquiring both power and influence is crucial to advancing not only your personal interests, but also a more prosperous society at large. Drawing from current-day lessons and the wisdom of hundreds of drivers of change in all fields of business, this is the author’s latest guide to harnessing the universal principles for success. It provides anecdotes and insights on a wide range of keys to success, including how to seize opportunity amid crisis, manage your network, communicate effectively, and take full advantage of social media to bolster your image. The book is divided into 15 chapters, including Networking: You Have to Do It, Protect Yourself and Your Reputation, and The Inevitable Crisis: Know How To Handle It and Benefit. It begins in the first chapter by asking readers to get to know themselves because to be an effective leader, you have to understand yourself and your needs first because “Self awareness….is one of the pillars of emotional intelligence (along with empathy, self-management, and social skills) and must come first.” The first part centers around building your power and influence while the second part shows you how to keep that hard earned influence during inevitable times of crisis. At the end, there are notes listed by chapter and an index that makes it easy to search by topic.

Change is the overall theme in “The Ultimate Guide to Power & Influence.” The first two sentences in the Introduction immediately draw you in: “You have a choice. Keep doing what you did yesterday or adapt to a world that is changing everyday.” Indeed, the business world is constantly changing and we must adapt to keep up, especially in a post-COVID world. Robert Dilenschneider has the experience, knowledge, and authority to help readers acquire and amplify their power; from graduate students to corporate professionals. Despite the topic of business, the language is easy to understand and follow because it contains practical advice for career and personal life. He shares inspirational stories to highlight the point he is making because stories make more of an impact than facts and figures ever could. His books are helpful and relevant because he adjusts his message to reflect the changing times and everyone can benefit from his advice, and this one is no exception. Highlights include Chapter 2: Networking that stresses the importance of networking not only in your select filed of work, but also reaching out to contacts outside of your circle; and Chapter 7: The Right Way to Make Your Mistakes that teaches the right way to approach making mistakes: “With humility and perseverance, we move forward and improve” – lesson learned: the biggest mistake is failure to LEARN from our mistakes. “The Ultimate Guide to Power & Influence” is an extremely useful guide that helps readers navigate the ever changing landscape of business as well as their professional and private lives. It is a must read for readers interested in business, economic, and ethics for personal and professional development.

“If there are absolutely no mistakes in a company, then no one is taking a risk, and innovation will atrophy.”

*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

New San Antonio rock ‘n’ roll bar Gimme Gimme announces opening date

New Southtown Rock ‘n’ Roll bar Gimme Gimme announces opening date of August 1, 2023. Photo: txtroublemaker, used with permission.

Gimme Gimme, a new rock ‘n’ roll bar coming to San Antonio, is excited to announce its official opening day, slated for Tuesday, August 1, 2023. Adjacent to the bar will be the concept A Perfect Day, a modern neighborhood wine bar, which will open on the same day. (Gimme Gimme, 2023)

Leading this exciting new concept are bar owners Roger Herr of Bar Loretta and Aaron Peña of Amor Eterno. Partners Michael Neff and Chef Paul Petersen of Bar Loretta will be overseeing the menu efforts, with Neff focusing on the bar program and Petersen leading the kitchen.

Gimme Gimme (think Ramones), will offer a rock ‘n’ roll experience with craft cocktails, a robust beer and wine list, and chef-driven food in the space formerly occupied by Francis Bogside.

“Growing up in San Antonio, I’ve always known our city as the home of rock ‘n’ roll. The inspiration for Gimme Gimme comes from wanting to create our own version of what we think a rock ‘n’ roll bar can be. Great music, great food, great cocktails, great service, and always a sense of humor. I’m super excited to share what our team has created,” said Owner Roger Herr.

The adjacent space, A Perfect Day, will offer a wine-forward, relaxed atmosphere with small bites, ready-made cocktails, and plenty of wine.

“I’m really looking forward to adding another space to Southtown that will be a totally different direction than our respective concepts that Roger and I are known for,” said Owner Aaron Peña. “Musically, the 14-year-old punk rocker version of my younger self is really excited to help curate the selection of tunes we will feature inside both Gimme Gimme and A Perfect Day – I think the neighborhood is going to love having an additional late night food and beverage option in the most walkable neighborhood in San Antonio.”

Operating hours will be as follow:
Gimme Gimme: Open 7 days a week from 6p.m. – 2a.m.
A Perfect Day: Open Monday-Friday from 4p.m. – 10p.m.; Saturday-Sunday from 12p.m. – 10p.m.

Gimme Gimme/A Perfect Day
803 South Saint Mary’s St
San Antonio, TX 78205

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‘Ricky’s Dream Trip to the Ancient Worlds of Egypt, Greece, and Rome’ by William Stevenson

Children’s book author William Stevenson combines three award winning books into one volume. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

William Stevenson is an acclaimed children’s book author and a retired award-winning accountant. His doctorate in education and his grandson Rick inspired him to write the Ricky’s Dream Trip book series. In it, Pop Pop and Ricky discover Ancient China, Ancient Egypt, Ancient Greece, Ancient Rome, Colonial America, dive under the sea, and even blast off into outer space. “Ricky’s Dream Trip to the Ancient Worlds of Egypt, Greece, and Rome” is a combination of three award winning Ricky’s Dream Trip book in one volume. The reader travels through time, diving into the rich histories and enchanting civilizations of three ancient worlds. Each story blends fiction with historical facts and cultural nuances. Through Ricky’s eyes, readers experience the excitement and wonder of these ancient civilizations while gaining a deeper understanding of their historical contributions. It is available on paperback on Amazon and the e-book version was just released this month. (Black Château, 2023)

“Ricky’s Dream Trip to the Ancient Worlds of Egypt, Greece, and Rome” – also has added information for classroom use and at-home activities. Ricky travels to the Ancient world through his dreams with his pop pop by his side. In Egypt, the land of the Pharaohs and pyramids he meets the boy prince, Tutankhamen, in a search for a beloved missing pet. Immerse yourself in the culture of Ancient Egypt with this terrific adventure. Next Ricky and Pop Pop meet Aristotle as they visit the land of the Ancient Olympics, see the temple of Athena, and help Alexander the Great! In the third time-bending dream trip adventure to Ancient Rome the fate of Julius Caesar, one of Rome’s greatest leaders, hangs in the balance. It is up to Ricky to confront his own fears and change the course of history.

“I wrote these stories for my grandson to help him learn and grow. I hope they will do the same for children of all ages.” – William Stevenson

Book of the week: ‘Sufi Stories of Wisdom, Calm and Wondrous Mystique’

‘Sufi Stories of Wisdom, Calm and Wondrous Mystique’ is available on SagaTeller

Today’s book highlight is “Sufi Stories of Wisdom, Calm and Wondrous Mystique.” Sufism is a way of life where one attempts to reach a deeper understanding of life. Rather than a doctrine or a belief system, it is an experience and a way of life as well as “a tradition of enlightenment that carries the essential truth forward through time.” (The Threshold Society). If you are interested in books about Sufism, enlightenment, and developing a deeper life, consider this one. “Sufi Stories of Wisdom, Calm and Wondrous Mystique” is an enjoyable read and is sure to leave a lasting imprint on your heart. You are invited to immerse yourself in each narrative and uncover the hidden gems of Sufi wisdom as these captivating stories guide you on a journey of inner peace. (SagaTeller, 2023)

“Sufi Stories of Wisdom, Calm and Wondrous Mystique” is published by SagaTeller. The author is on a journey to discover the wisdom of the ancient masters that lies hidden in academic libraries. As the author writes “The wisdom of the ancient Sufi masters has humbled me and given me a sense of peace that I had never experienced before. I hope to share what I’ve learned with you.”

This beautiful little anthology masterfully weaves together ancient Sufi stories and historical accounts, introducing you to the revered figures of Sufi tradition and their profound teachings. You will witness the deep love for our Creator that defines the Sufi path. The ancient mystics went beyond mere obligations and fear, and spread the message of positivity and hope through their stories.

The true essence of Sufi stories lies in their ability to transcend ordinary narratives. These stories become gateways to deeper contemplation, inviting profound realizations, and personal growth.

As you traverse the mystical landscapes of these tales, you will discover the virtues of kindness, truthfulness, and honesty. Through the timeless wisdom of the Sufi mystics, you will be presented with teachings that resonate deeply, transcending the boundaries of age and time.

In Sufi stories the heroes are not those with extraordinary feats, but those who embody the best of human values. They are beacons of love and serenity, offering inspiration that extends beyond the realms of superheroes and celebrities. The wonderful stories unveil the mystique as you embrace the calmness and find peace. Let each tale be your guiding light, leading you towards the serenity that awaits in the heart of the Sufi tradition.

More books on Sufi stories.

Please share your personal experiences of Sufi life.

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New horror movie release: Waking Nightmare

Waking Nightmare will be out on Video On Demand on August 18, 2023. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

In today’s movie news, here is a horror movie that is coming to Video On Demand next month: Waking Nightmare.

Pitch Perfect’s Shelley Regner, The Last American Virgin’s Diane Franklin, An American Werewolf in London’s David Naughton, and The Lost Boys’ Jamison Newlander star in Waking Nightmare, a spine-chilling rollercoaster of fear hitting Video On Demand on August 18 from Terror Films. (October Coast, 2023)

Waking Nightmare – Jordan suffered manic episodes after the loss of her friend. Her mother has a family doctor prescribe her Ambien to help with her sleepwalking. As time goes on, Jordan has issues remembering what happened. Yan Birch, Stephen Wu, and Every Heart co-star.

“We wanted to create a unique experience for horror fans by blending horror comedy and drama with the toxic uncertainty of films like Miike’s Audition. What drew me to the project was Brian’s concept of an unwitting killer who is just an average girl struggling to find normalcy in a mad world.” – Stephen Craig

“Bending the forms of reality is something that has always intrigued me. I was honored to work with my brother in cinema Stephen Craig on Waking Nightmare. Creating the world that the characters lived in, sane and insane in something that bends the visual scape of the genre. People are affected by sleepwalking. The unknown of where you’ll wake up, is truly a Waking Nightmare.” – Brian Farmer

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Taco Cabana celebrates National Tequila Day

Taco Cabana celebrates National Tequila Day with $6.99 Double Crunch Pizza and Margarita bundle deal. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.

Starting Friday, July 21, 2023 through Monday, July 24, 2023, in celebration of National Tequila Day (July 24, 2023), Taco Cabana will offer a special bundle deal including any flavor of its popular Double Crunch Pizza and any flavor of its signature frozen margaritas for just $6.99 at all Texas Taco Cabana locations. TC guests can choose from Double Crunch Pizza flavors like Ground Beef, Shredded Chicken or Ghost Pepper Ground Beef and pair it with one of TC’s refreshing margarita flavors – perfect for the sizzling summer season. (Taco Cabana, 2023)

The offer is valid for Friday, July 21, 2023 through Monday, July 24, 2023 only during standard hours of operation at all participating Texas Taco Cabana locations. It does not include TC’s Triple Crunch Pizza.

The Double Crunch Pizza and margarita bundle is available through curbside pick-up, drive-thru, in-restaurant, and via mobile order through the My TC! App.

Taco Cabana, a subsidiary of YTC Enterprises, LLC, was founded in 1978. The brand specializes in Mexican-inspired food including breakfast, lunch and dinner tacos, dozen taco boxes, enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, flautas, burritos, double crunch pizzas, freshly made flour tortillas and a selection of made-from-scratch salsas and sauces. Restaurants feature open-display cooking, a selection of bottled beer and signature tequila margaritas, patio dining, drive-thru windows, curbside pick-up and delivery. As of July 10, 2023, Taco Cabana operates 143 company-owned restaurants in Texas.

 

New book release: ‘The Day I Sold My Corvette’ by Santrell T. Carson

‘The Day I Sold My Corvette’ by Santrell T. Carson. Photo: Amazon

Today’s book highlight is all about business. If you are interesting in books about business, money/motivational management, and biographies about business professionals, this one is for you: “The Day I Sold My Corvette” by Santrell T. Carson. This thought-provoking and enlightening book challenges your perceptions of wealth and money. If you find yourself living paycheck-to-paycheck, struggling financially, or constantly craving material possessions, this is a must read book.

Santrell T. Carson is a creative designer, an artist, an observer, a businessman, a son, a brother, a landlord, an entrepreneur, an author, and after all these years, still an engineer. He has worked most of his life, starting at 12 when he started his first paper route. At 19, he became a conductor for the railroad and eventually became the first African American to go through the ranks to become an engineer in his district. This was when Santrell decided that employment was only the first step to success, and the real goal was to become financially independent. Even though he enjoyed his childhood, it was not as he would have liked to imagine it. While growing up in a poverty-stricken area, he was set on a mission to change the path of those who came after him. Creating generational wealth was not the first goal as he toiled with life’s obstacles. His new book, “The Day I Sold My Corvette,” is about more than just selling a car, it is about selling a lifestyle that keeps you in financial bondage. The author challenges readers to re-evaluate their spending habits and focus on acquiring assets instead of liabilities. (Santrell T. Carson, 2023)

“The Day I Sold my Corvette” is a compelling and insightful read that will inspire you to take control of your finances and make positive changes in your life. Whether you are a young adult just starting your financial journey or someone looking to shift their mindset about wealth, this book offers practical advice and a refreshing perspective on money. Through his personal story, the author shares his financial education journey and how he broke the cycle of poverty by taking risks and building assets. He sheds light on the common misconceptions about wealth and exposes the true meaning of financial freedom.

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New album release: Sweethearts – Christian Parker

Christian Parker breaths new life into the Byrd’s classic country leaning album with new LP Sweethearts. It will be out August 18, 2023. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Christian Parker is an American recording artist, guitarist and songwriter. He knows his way around a song, and his musical vision enables him to deliver electrifying licks on rock anthems as well as cascading layers of acoustic guitar on ballads of love and loss. Parker started taking guitar lessons when he was 12, the day after John Lennon was killed, and learned how to play “Rocky Racoon” that same night. The New York-based musician released his first album, Reflections of Tomorrow, when he was 17, launching a music career devoted to introspective songwriting marked by its attention to the world around him. Since then he has released six studio albums, including his forthcoming Sweethearts, Parker’s version of the classic Byrds’ album Sweethearts of the Rodeo. His albums have earned him praise from No Depression, Blues Blast, and Jambands. His most recent, Every Passing Mile and Best Kept Secret, contain previously unreleased material written over the last two decades. In addition to his solo work, Parker has played lead guitar in the Waydown Wailers, rockers who have shared stages with Z.Z. Top, Charlie Daniels, Lady A, and New Riders of the Purple Sage. (IV-PR, 2023)

On August 18, Parker will release his version of the Byrds’ now-legendary country-rocker, Sweethearts of the Rodeo. Titled Sweethearts, it features his rollicking band and support from pianist Earl Poole Ball and pedal steel from JayDee Maness—both of whom played on the original record back in 1968.

Just as then-new Byrds member Gram Parsons loved the Louvin Brothers, Merle Haggard, and Cindy Walker—and wanted to deliver faithful versions of their songs “The Christian Life,” “Life in Prison,” and “Blue Canadian Rockies”—so Parker delivers the Byrds’ versions in tender renditions that capture the groundbreaking character of the original album. Throughout Sweethearts, Parker’s vocals echo the purity of Parsons’ efforts to import the clarity of county music into vibrant rock rhythms. In addition to the original eleven songs on Sweethearts of the Rodeo, Parker has included three more classics: “I Still Miss Someone,” “Satisfied Mind,” and “Drugstore Truck Driving Man.”

Parker shared the first single from Sweethearts, the album-opening “You Ain’t Goin’ Nowhere” with premiere partner The Bluegrass Situation. “I first heard this song by Bob Dylan on an acoustic guitar. But I was hooked when I listened to the opening pedal steel guitar on the Byrds album,” says Parker. “This song was in my repertoire for decades, and I felt like I was recording an old friend. Tracer James’ interpretation of Lloyd Greens’ pedal steel guitar opens Sweethearts up perfectly and having Earl Poole Ball in the studio, who played piano on the original version, was magical for me.” Finding room between James’ scampering steel licks and Ball’s gospel-inflected piano runs, Parker delivers the song’s iconic refrain: “Whoo-ee, ride me high / Tomorrow’s the day my bride’s gonna come.” The cascading piano on the outré is Parker’s distinctive take on this buoyant song.

Fans can hear “You Ain’t Goin’ Nowhere” now at this link and pre-order or pre-save Sweethearts ahead of its August 18 release.

Sweethearts track list:
You Ain’t Goin’ Nowhere
I Am A Pilgrim
The Christian Life
You Don’t Miss Your Water
You’re Still On My Mind
Pretty Boy Floyd
I Still Miss Someone
Hickory Wind
One Hundred Years From Now
Blue Canadian Rockies
Life In Prison
Nothing Was Delivered
Satisfied Mind
Drugstore Truck Driving Man

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New book release: ‘The Vet’s Apprentice’ by David Basinski

‘The Vet’s Apprentice’ is the new science fiction novel by David Basinski. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Here is another new release worth mentioning: “The Vet’s Apprentice” by David Basinski. This debut novel for young readers takes place in the near future where space travel is as common as self driving cars and traffic sensors that issue tickets for speeding. Luna, the young protagonist loves animals and yearns to one day become a vet but when her scholarship falls through for lack of funding, she has to come up with Plan B. After reading a sample, I can attest that the author’s writing style seems graceful and makes the story flow easily through the pages. The highly detailed illustrations are gorgeous and bring the story to life and the concept of caring for animals in outer space is appealing. If you enjoy books with teenage protagonists and outer space adventures with animals, even if you are not a young reader, give this science fiction adventure a try. Let me know what you think.

After graduating from high school with the state’s representative scholarship, David Basinski attended the University of Illinois at Champaign for two and a half years before transferring to the Tuskegee Institute, in Alabama. While there, he represented the school in rodeo and the National Dairy Tasting Competition. During the summers between semesters, he worked for the Federal Animal Disease Testing Laboratory in Salem, Oregon, a ranch in Wyoming, and attended the American Motorcycle Mechanics School. Upon graduation with a bachelor’s degree in animal science, he spent a year learning Polish in Krakow before being admitted to the School of Veterinary Medicine in Wroclaw, Poland. In his debut novel “The Vet’s Apprentice,” the author proposes the questions: what if Princess Leia had decided to become an animal doctor, Darth Vader set out to destroy Alderaan’s livestock, and Obi-Wan Kenobi happened to be a vet? Find out in this intriguing new release. (David Basinski, 2023)

“The Vet’s Apprentice” – Luna Auer thought she had her future planned: graduate and go on to apply to vet school. But when her scholarship is suddenly revoked, her dream and her world are turned upside down. Resorting to a work-study program in a remote corner of the universe, she discovers a plan by the corrupt corporation she works for to eliminate the planet’s hybrid animals. With the help of an eccentric motorcycle-riding vet and his canine sidekick, will Luna be able to save those she has come to love? Fans of Dr. Dolittle will enjoy the wild ride adventure, its illustrated exotic animals, and the characters who treat them.

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Author David Basinski. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

New book release: ‘Fifty Shades of Snow’ by A. Roy Milligan

‘Fifty Shades of Snow’ is the new urban life novel by A. Roy Milligan. Photo: Amazon

In today’s book news, here is a new book from acclaimed African American author A. Roy Milligan. If you like urban life fiction, in particular African American urban life fiction that brings the street life to the mainstream, may I suggest “Fifty Shades of Snow.”

Author A. Roy Milligan was born and raised in Pontiac, Michigan. While in prison for a second time for selling drugs, he started writing urban fiction books when he was 21 years old after being inspired by authors like Terri Woods, Wahida Clark, and Ashley & JaQuavis. He now resides in Las Vegas, Nevada where he runs his own car hauling company. On his free time, he enjoys bowling, shooting pool, reading, and traveling. He wrote “From Prison To the Car Hauling Game” to motivate people that have been in similar situations where they lost hope and do not know what else to do since they have felonies on their record. His new book “Fifty Shades of Snow” is a gritty and realistic urban fiction crime drama. (A. Roy Milligan, 2023)

“Fifty Shades of Snow” – When Steve found the love of his life Angelia in bed with a flashy street thug loaded with cash, he knew his meager factory wages and part-time drug dealing were not going to cut it. Steve was a celebrity football star in high school, but now 10 years later, he is barely making ends meet by slinging a couple of ounces of cocaine here and there on the side. Now, things are getting worse. Angelia’s got a thing for street dudes with bling, and Steve’s got no bling. Despite being enraged by Angelia’s adultery, Steve decides to keep her around and find a quick way to improve their financial situation to keep her faithful. He knows life as a part-time drug dealer is not going to stack cash, but a trip to San Antonio, Texas to meet with the head of a notorious Mexican cartel might just be the ticket into the dangerous and lucrative street life that he has been looking for. Can Steve make the moves that he needs to make to save his relationship and elevate himself from barely paying the bills to straight-up street hustler?

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