With the tremendous nursing shortage in the United States there would seem to be a lot of money to be made in travel nurse staffing. Although this may be true, starting a travel nurse staffing company may not be as easy as one might think.
The biggest challenge in starting a travel nurse staffing company most people face is a lack of capital. The issue is that nurses want to be paid for their work very quickly but hospitals won't normally agree to pay the agencies as quick. If you were to start a travel nurse staffing company, you would need money to run your business while you are waiting to get paid by the hospitals.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the travel nurse staffing industry is highly competitive. You will need a constant source of nurse leads who are seeking jobs. These leads can be very expensive and may cost you thousands of dollars per month. Due to the high demand for qualified nursing professionals, and strong incentives offered by competitors, some nurses change their minds about taking an assignment when they get better offers from other companies. This is just another possible pitfall to keep in mind when starting a travel nurse staffing agency.
Another challenge in starting a travel nurse staffing company is you will have quite a bit of internal overhead. There are many pieces to the puzzle that will make it very difficult for only a few people to start. The key components are housing and nurse payroll departments, account management, and of course experienced nurse recruiters which may be difficult to find.
One additional factor to keep in mind is the potential liability in the nursing industry. You will need to make sure you carry a fair amount of liability insurance and that you keep good records of your nurses' credentials. Collecting paperwork can be pain, but failure to keep good records could lead to big trouble and major headaches down the road.
In closing, this article is not meant to discourage you from starting a travel nurse staffing company, but to make you aware of some potential pitfalls that you will need to keep in mind. If you remember some of the key points mentioned above, there is a good chance you will have a successful, profitable, travel nurse staffing agency.
Steve Arnold writes for Jobs in Nursing . Check out some other Jobs in Nursing Articles here.
Profile of a Travel Nurse
Travel nurses are nurses who travel to different locations for short-term working assignments. Travel nurses often work for hospitals, doctors offices, and in the medical administration field. Travel nurses are usually hired to fill temporary work shortages such as peak work times, maternity leave, and long term illnesses of permanent workers. Medical facilities will pay a high salary to fill short term periods. Assignment can be a few days or several months. An assignment usually runs for about 13 weeks.
To obtain a career in travel nursing, you must first have the appropriate credentials. The usual requirements for becoming a travel nurse are a minimum of one year of clinical experience and a state employment license granted by the state’s nursing board. You should have a nursing degree from a recognized nursing school and have all the skills needed to fill a particular position. Not all hospitals recognize one year vocational diploma programs. Medical facilities expect travel nurses to know what they are doing on the first day of the assignment. That is one reason why they pay top dollar for a travel nurse. They expect the travel nurse to have the knowledge and skills to adapt quickly and efficiently.
There are a number steps to achieving a career as a travel nurse. First, one should apply to a travel nurse agency. These agencies are actively involved with hospitals across the country and with many International hospitals. They have the knowledge of open travel nurse positions and they match the travel nurse with the staffing needs of the medical facility.
Once a person is accepted into the travel nurse agency, the recruiter will match that person with the assignment. The recruiter will help the travel nurse with the interview process, obtain essential state licenses, assist with housing and travel, and arrange for the appropriate benefits and pay. The recruiter receives a fee, but the travel nurse receives their knowledge and experience.
Although each state has its own nurse licensing requirements, they do provide temporary licenses. Some temporary licenses can last up to a year. Registered nurses have the advantage because their national board exam covers state requirements. Having a nursing agency recruiter can be helpful as they will assist you in securing your temporary license.
Because of the travel arrangements that need to be made for each assignment, travel nurses tend to prefer recruiting agencies. These agencies are experienced and can make travel arrangements quickly and efficiently. If traveling out of the country, one needs to secure a visa and have proof that they are a graduate of a reputable institution. It is important to maintain a current resume with valid supporting documents.
The life of a travel nurse requires maintaining a constant travel schedule that includes:
Maintaining a Check List: A week before you depart, have a list of all the necessities you need and check them off as you pack. This includes documents, clothing, books, etc.
Research Work Location: Prepare for cultural differences, personal safety issues, and proximity to stores, restaurants, and supermarkets. This will minimize unexpected stressful events.
Move In Early: Moving in a day or two early will allow you to become familiar with you’re your work location and the surrounding community.
Most nurses enter the field of travel nursing so they can travel, experience different work environments, make a good living, and maintain a flexible work schedule. Travel nursing is also an excellent way for recent graduates to find out where they would like long-term employment. The Professional Association of Nurse Travelers, a non-profit national organization representing nurse travelers in the US, is a great organization to consult with regarding a career in travel nursing.There are also many traveler nurse blogs and forums where one can gain more insight into the pros and cons of travel nursing.
Looking for travel nursing jobs, physician jobs or speech pathologist jobs? Leading provider of healthcare staffing can help place you in your dream job with hospitals or healthcare providers.
To obtain a career in travel nursing, you must first have the appropriate credentials. The usual requirements for becoming a travel nurse are a minimum of one year of clinical experience and a state employment license granted by the state’s nursing board. You should have a nursing degree from a recognized nursing school and have all the skills needed to fill a particular position. Not all hospitals recognize one year vocational diploma programs. Medical facilities expect travel nurses to know what they are doing on the first day of the assignment. That is one reason why they pay top dollar for a travel nurse. They expect the travel nurse to have the knowledge and skills to adapt quickly and efficiently.
There are a number steps to achieving a career as a travel nurse. First, one should apply to a travel nurse agency. These agencies are actively involved with hospitals across the country and with many International hospitals. They have the knowledge of open travel nurse positions and they match the travel nurse with the staffing needs of the medical facility.
Once a person is accepted into the travel nurse agency, the recruiter will match that person with the assignment. The recruiter will help the travel nurse with the interview process, obtain essential state licenses, assist with housing and travel, and arrange for the appropriate benefits and pay. The recruiter receives a fee, but the travel nurse receives their knowledge and experience.
Although each state has its own nurse licensing requirements, they do provide temporary licenses. Some temporary licenses can last up to a year. Registered nurses have the advantage because their national board exam covers state requirements. Having a nursing agency recruiter can be helpful as they will assist you in securing your temporary license.
Because of the travel arrangements that need to be made for each assignment, travel nurses tend to prefer recruiting agencies. These agencies are experienced and can make travel arrangements quickly and efficiently. If traveling out of the country, one needs to secure a visa and have proof that they are a graduate of a reputable institution. It is important to maintain a current resume with valid supporting documents.
The life of a travel nurse requires maintaining a constant travel schedule that includes:
Maintaining a Check List: A week before you depart, have a list of all the necessities you need and check them off as you pack. This includes documents, clothing, books, etc.
Research Work Location: Prepare for cultural differences, personal safety issues, and proximity to stores, restaurants, and supermarkets. This will minimize unexpected stressful events.
Move In Early: Moving in a day or two early will allow you to become familiar with you’re your work location and the surrounding community.
Most nurses enter the field of travel nursing so they can travel, experience different work environments, make a good living, and maintain a flexible work schedule. Travel nursing is also an excellent way for recent graduates to find out where they would like long-term employment. The Professional Association of Nurse Travelers, a non-profit national organization representing nurse travelers in the US, is a great organization to consult with regarding a career in travel nursing.There are also many traveler nurse blogs and forums where one can gain more insight into the pros and cons of travel nursing.
Looking for travel nursing jobs, physician jobs or speech pathologist jobs? Leading provider of healthcare staffing can help place you in your dream job with hospitals or healthcare providers.
The Profile of a Travel Nurse
Travel nurses are nurses who travel to different locations for short-term working assignments. Travel nurses often work for hospitals, doctors offices, and in the medical administration field. Travel nurses are usually hired to fill temporary work shortages such as peak work times, maternity leave, and long term illnesses of permanent workers. Medical facilities will pay a high salary to fill short term periods. Assignment can be a few days or several months. An assignment usually runs for about 13 weeks.
To obtain a career in travel nursing, you must first have the appropriate credentials. The usual requirements for becoming a travel nurse are a minimum of one year of clinical experience and a state employment license granted by the state's nursing board. You should have a nursing degree from a recognized nursing school and have all the skills needed to fill a particular position. Not all hospitals recognize one year vocational diploma programs. Medical facilities expect travel nurses to know what they are doing on the first day of the assignment. That is one reason why they pay top dollar for a travel nurse. They expect the travel nurse to have the knowledge and skills to adapt quickly and efficiently.
There are a number steps to achieving a career as a travel nurse. First, one should apply to a travel nurse agency. These agencies are actively involved with hospitals across the country and with many International hospitals. They have the knowledge of open travel nurse positions and they match the travel nurse with the staffing needs of the medical facility.
Once a person is accepted into the travel nurse agency, the recruiter will match that person with the assignment. The recruiter will help the travel nurse with the interview process, obtain essential state licenses, assist with housing and travel, and arrange for the appropriate benefits and pay. The recruiter receives a fee, but the travel nurse receives their knowledge and experience.
Although each state has its own nurse licensing requirements, they do provide temporary licenses. Some temporary licenses can last up to a year. Registered nurses have the advantage because their national board exam covers state requirements. Having a nursing agency recruiter can be helpful as they will assist you in securing your temporary license.
Because of the travel arrangements that need to be made for each assignment, travel nurses tend to prefer recruiting agencies. These agencies are experienced and can make travel arrangements quickly and efficiently. If traveling out of the country, one needs to secure a visa and have proof that they are a graduate of a reputable institution. It is important to maintain a current resume with valid supporting documents.
The life of a travel nurse requires maintaining a constant travel schedule that includes:
Maintaining a Check List: A week before you depart, have a list of all the necessities you need and check them off as you pack. This includes documents, clothing, books, etc.
Research Work Location: Prepare for cultural differences, personal safety issues, and proximity to stores, restaurants, and supermarkets. This will minimize unexpected stressful events.
Move In Early: Moving in a day or two early will allow you to become familiar with you're your work location and the surrounding community.
Most nurses enter the field of travel nursing so they can travel, experience different work environments, make a good living, and maintain a flexible work schedule. Travel nursing is also an excellent way for recent graduates to find out where they would like long-term employment. The Professional Association of Nurse Travelers, a non-profit national organization representing nurse travelers in the US, is a great organization to consult with regarding a career in travel nursing.There are also many traveler nurse blogs and forums where one can gain more insight into the pros and cons of travel nursing.
To obtain a career in travel nursing, you must first have the appropriate credentials. The usual requirements for becoming a travel nurse are a minimum of one year of clinical experience and a state employment license granted by the state's nursing board. You should have a nursing degree from a recognized nursing school and have all the skills needed to fill a particular position. Not all hospitals recognize one year vocational diploma programs. Medical facilities expect travel nurses to know what they are doing on the first day of the assignment. That is one reason why they pay top dollar for a travel nurse. They expect the travel nurse to have the knowledge and skills to adapt quickly and efficiently.
There are a number steps to achieving a career as a travel nurse. First, one should apply to a travel nurse agency. These agencies are actively involved with hospitals across the country and with many International hospitals. They have the knowledge of open travel nurse positions and they match the travel nurse with the staffing needs of the medical facility.
Once a person is accepted into the travel nurse agency, the recruiter will match that person with the assignment. The recruiter will help the travel nurse with the interview process, obtain essential state licenses, assist with housing and travel, and arrange for the appropriate benefits and pay. The recruiter receives a fee, but the travel nurse receives their knowledge and experience.
Although each state has its own nurse licensing requirements, they do provide temporary licenses. Some temporary licenses can last up to a year. Registered nurses have the advantage because their national board exam covers state requirements. Having a nursing agency recruiter can be helpful as they will assist you in securing your temporary license.
Because of the travel arrangements that need to be made for each assignment, travel nurses tend to prefer recruiting agencies. These agencies are experienced and can make travel arrangements quickly and efficiently. If traveling out of the country, one needs to secure a visa and have proof that they are a graduate of a reputable institution. It is important to maintain a current resume with valid supporting documents.
The life of a travel nurse requires maintaining a constant travel schedule that includes:
Maintaining a Check List: A week before you depart, have a list of all the necessities you need and check them off as you pack. This includes documents, clothing, books, etc.
Research Work Location: Prepare for cultural differences, personal safety issues, and proximity to stores, restaurants, and supermarkets. This will minimize unexpected stressful events.
Move In Early: Moving in a day or two early will allow you to become familiar with you're your work location and the surrounding community.
Most nurses enter the field of travel nursing so they can travel, experience different work environments, make a good living, and maintain a flexible work schedule. Travel nursing is also an excellent way for recent graduates to find out where they would like long-term employment. The Professional Association of Nurse Travelers, a non-profit national organization representing nurse travelers in the US, is a great organization to consult with regarding a career in travel nursing.There are also many traveler nurse blogs and forums where one can gain more insight into the pros and cons of travel nursing.
Leading healthcare staffing company connects hospitals and healthcare providers with highly qualified, full- or part-time healthcare professionals with travel nursing jobs, physician jobs and speech pathologist jobs.
A Career As A Travel Nurse
Travel nurses are healthcare professionals such as registered nurses or therapists who travel to various locations to work for certain portions of the year. They usually work up to four travel jobs per year. A travel nurse can work in any region in the United States and many International regions. Most nurses secure a travel nursing career through a reputable travel staffing agency.
A career as a travel nurse can be personally and financially rewarding. Most people who have experienced life as a travel nurse say it is an exciting profession and a great way to earn a living. A travel nurse will enjoy living in new and exciting locations, reside in wonderful accommodations, and work in excellent hospitals. Other benefits include:
Travel Assistance: Most reputable travel nurse agencies will arrange such travel details as directions and maps. They should also have a 24-hour emergency hotline.
Great Pay: While on assignment, travel nurses are offered comprehensive packages consisting of excellent pay with many benefits and bonuses. Annual earnings for an RN travel nursing jobs can be as high as $110,000.
Your Facility Choice: Most travel nurse agencies have available jobs in all 50 states and at the highest ranking hospitals.
Free Private Housing: Housing accommodations are selected by travel nurse agencies for their excellent services and amenities that may include spas, swimming pools, and fitness centers.
Flexible Work Schedule: Many nurses choose a career as a travel nurse because the stress of a traditional hospital can be the result of long hours and increased physical demands. Travel nurses have more flexible work schedules. It is often much easier for a travel nurse to plan for special engagements and vacations
Free Health and Dental Insurance: Travel nursing agencies offer many free comprehensive health plans to meet all their clientÂ’s needs. Dependents can also be covered at a nominal cost. Travel nurses can also receive supplemental insurance that provides income if they are unable to work as a result of a non-work-related illness. As well, professional liability insurance should be offered at no extra cost.
Work Protection Plan: A work protection program should be offered by a reputable travel nursing agency because it ensures that if a shift is cancelled, you will still be paid.
Travel Expenses Reimbursement: Most travel nursing agencies will provide travel allowance to nurses. Travel allowance may be given before you depart or as a reimbursement after you arrive.
Tax Advantage Plans: Tax laws allow full-time travel nurses to receive non-taxable credit for meals.
Licensure Reimbursement: Travel nurse agencies will reimburse nurses for their State Nursing Licensure fees for every travel assignment. They will also help travel nurses acquire a State Nursing License.
Auto Club Membership: Many travel nurse agencies offer a discount or free membership to an auto club. Travel nurses will have access to roadside assistance, hotel discounts, rental cars, free trip routing with detailed directions and maps, emergency check cashing, and no fee travelers checks.
401(k) Plan: Travel nurses can enroll in a retirement 401(k) plan where a portion of their earnings will go into a retirement savings plan.
Free Course Upgrades: Many travel nursing agencies will provide free education courses so nurses can keep up with new technology and education.
Referral Bonuses: Travel nursing agencies will give bonuses to travel nurses who recruit other health professionals into their travel nurse program.
While the pay and bonuses of a career in travel nursing are very rewarding, travel nursing positions are highly sought after. It is important that you keep up with modern education and experience. There are hundreds of agencies that specialize in placing travel nurses. Registering with several agencies will increase your assignment choices. With the right planning and knowledge, you will discover great joy with a career as a travel nurse.
Healthcare staffing company that connects hospitals and healthcare providers in a variety of specialized disciplines, including: Travel Nursing jobs, Speech Pathologist and Physician jobs.
A career as a travel nurse can be personally and financially rewarding. Most people who have experienced life as a travel nurse say it is an exciting profession and a great way to earn a living. A travel nurse will enjoy living in new and exciting locations, reside in wonderful accommodations, and work in excellent hospitals. Other benefits include:
Travel Assistance: Most reputable travel nurse agencies will arrange such travel details as directions and maps. They should also have a 24-hour emergency hotline.
Great Pay: While on assignment, travel nurses are offered comprehensive packages consisting of excellent pay with many benefits and bonuses. Annual earnings for an RN travel nursing jobs can be as high as $110,000.
Your Facility Choice: Most travel nurse agencies have available jobs in all 50 states and at the highest ranking hospitals.
Free Private Housing: Housing accommodations are selected by travel nurse agencies for their excellent services and amenities that may include spas, swimming pools, and fitness centers.
Flexible Work Schedule: Many nurses choose a career as a travel nurse because the stress of a traditional hospital can be the result of long hours and increased physical demands. Travel nurses have more flexible work schedules. It is often much easier for a travel nurse to plan for special engagements and vacations
Free Health and Dental Insurance: Travel nursing agencies offer many free comprehensive health plans to meet all their clientÂ’s needs. Dependents can also be covered at a nominal cost. Travel nurses can also receive supplemental insurance that provides income if they are unable to work as a result of a non-work-related illness. As well, professional liability insurance should be offered at no extra cost.
Work Protection Plan: A work protection program should be offered by a reputable travel nursing agency because it ensures that if a shift is cancelled, you will still be paid.
Travel Expenses Reimbursement: Most travel nursing agencies will provide travel allowance to nurses. Travel allowance may be given before you depart or as a reimbursement after you arrive.
Tax Advantage Plans: Tax laws allow full-time travel nurses to receive non-taxable credit for meals.
Licensure Reimbursement: Travel nurse agencies will reimburse nurses for their State Nursing Licensure fees for every travel assignment. They will also help travel nurses acquire a State Nursing License.
Auto Club Membership: Many travel nurse agencies offer a discount or free membership to an auto club. Travel nurses will have access to roadside assistance, hotel discounts, rental cars, free trip routing with detailed directions and maps, emergency check cashing, and no fee travelers checks.
401(k) Plan: Travel nurses can enroll in a retirement 401(k) plan where a portion of their earnings will go into a retirement savings plan.
Free Course Upgrades: Many travel nursing agencies will provide free education courses so nurses can keep up with new technology and education.
Referral Bonuses: Travel nursing agencies will give bonuses to travel nurses who recruit other health professionals into their travel nurse program.
While the pay and bonuses of a career in travel nursing are very rewarding, travel nursing positions are highly sought after. It is important that you keep up with modern education and experience. There are hundreds of agencies that specialize in placing travel nurses. Registering with several agencies will increase your assignment choices. With the right planning and knowledge, you will discover great joy with a career as a travel nurse.
Healthcare staffing company that connects hospitals and healthcare providers in a variety of specialized disciplines, including: Travel Nursing jobs, Speech Pathologist and Physician jobs.
Tips On How To Start A Career In International Travel Nursing
If you are a nurse who enjoys traveling, you may want to consider a travel nursing position. Many travel nurse placement agencies offer positions that range anywhere from four to thirteen weeks depending on the case. This type of position offers the opportunity to expand your horizons while obtaining more experience in your chosen field.
In terms of compensation, the traveling nurses tends to make anywhere between 10-15% more than the staff nurse with incentives and bonuses added to the package. For many nurses, being a travel nurse opens the opportunity to see parts of the country they would not ordinarily see in the course of normal employment. If you aren't able to travel because of children or financial obligations, you can still experience the thrill of being a travel nurse by accepting assignments closer to home. Of course, when you are able to do so, you can ask for assignments in other cities or states. That is one of the benefits of being a travel nurse with a placement agency: it leaves you in control of which assignments you accept. Unlike a staff position, you are not required to report to work every day as per a set schedule unless you are on an assignment. When you are in between assignments, the choice is yours to accept or decline, and often times with a travel nurse, bonuses are paid to those who complete assignments.
Are the assignments always in hospitals or nursing homes? That depends on the assignment, but the potential is also there for private duty. Some nurses prefer private duty cases, and in many cases, the pay is higher than it is in a facility-based assignment. Let the placement agency know if you prefer a particular kind of environment because they will try to accommodate you whenever possible. The key role is to meet the needs of both the patient or facility and the nurse. The more comfortable the nurse is with the position to which she has been assigned, the easier it will be for her to perform her job.
Travel nursing opens up many opportunities in the field, and for the nurse who is good at what she does, and not adverse to relocation, opportunities in other states as a staff nurse may be a thought to consider. This is a good way to feel the waters and see if you like different scenery before making the permanent decision to move to an unfamiliar place. This type of position is not for everyone, but if you like to travel and try different things, this is the kind of position you will love. Not only will you see other parts of the country, you will experience a completely different world of individuality in the new people you will meet.
Sandy Sizemore writes on many consumer related topics including health care. You can find travel nursing companies and info on international travel nursing and more by visiting our health care website.
In terms of compensation, the traveling nurses tends to make anywhere between 10-15% more than the staff nurse with incentives and bonuses added to the package. For many nurses, being a travel nurse opens the opportunity to see parts of the country they would not ordinarily see in the course of normal employment. If you aren't able to travel because of children or financial obligations, you can still experience the thrill of being a travel nurse by accepting assignments closer to home. Of course, when you are able to do so, you can ask for assignments in other cities or states. That is one of the benefits of being a travel nurse with a placement agency: it leaves you in control of which assignments you accept. Unlike a staff position, you are not required to report to work every day as per a set schedule unless you are on an assignment. When you are in between assignments, the choice is yours to accept or decline, and often times with a travel nurse, bonuses are paid to those who complete assignments.
Are the assignments always in hospitals or nursing homes? That depends on the assignment, but the potential is also there for private duty. Some nurses prefer private duty cases, and in many cases, the pay is higher than it is in a facility-based assignment. Let the placement agency know if you prefer a particular kind of environment because they will try to accommodate you whenever possible. The key role is to meet the needs of both the patient or facility and the nurse. The more comfortable the nurse is with the position to which she has been assigned, the easier it will be for her to perform her job.
Travel nursing opens up many opportunities in the field, and for the nurse who is good at what she does, and not adverse to relocation, opportunities in other states as a staff nurse may be a thought to consider. This is a good way to feel the waters and see if you like different scenery before making the permanent decision to move to an unfamiliar place. This type of position is not for everyone, but if you like to travel and try different things, this is the kind of position you will love. Not only will you see other parts of the country, you will experience a completely different world of individuality in the new people you will meet.
Sandy Sizemore writes on many consumer related topics including health care. You can find travel nursing companies and info on international travel nursing and more by visiting our health care website.
How To Get An Exciting Career In International Travel Nursing
If the excitement of international travel appeals to you, then you might want to think of being an international travel nurse. Of course, finding a placement agency is going to be the first key to doing that, and in a detailed search, only agencies placing nurses from overseas into the United States came into play. However, if the program works the same way, the placement agency or employer will make all arrangements for your travel and the obtaining of your visa and green card to allow you perform your assignment internationally. You will also need a work permit, which will be obtained for you as well.
International travel nursing can provide a worldwide wealth of knowledge, especially if you are interested in working in some of the poorer countries instead of those with a wealth of riches to offer. The challenges of working in a country that speaks a different language, has a different culture, and has different medical needs can be crucial to the expansion of your nursing knowledge. The development of worldwide knowledge that you are able to take home with you can make the experience one that will allow you to greater utilize the skills that you have learned.
Becoming an international travel nurse can also provide you with a scope of knowledge in the travel field, allowing you to travel while at the same time, performing the job that you love. Perhaps you have something to offer the country where you are placed, and can bring back some of their knowledge as well. The combination of the two knowledge bases can ultimately be beneficial to patients on both sides of the global community. The sharing of knowledge in the medical field is the key to the entire world knowing how to treat the diseases that plague our people, and the utilization of international travel nurses, both into other countries, and from other countries into the United States, will make that happen. Each has knowledge to share, and a skill that is unique, so the working together of the two cultures can only improve what each country is already practicing.
International travel nursing can be a rewarding experience for both the nurse and the people she is sent to serve both culturally and medically. The placement agency knows how important this is and will strive to make certain that each nurse is placed where the needs can best be met within the scope of her desires. If nursing in another country appeals to you, be sure to contact one of the companies that places nurses internationally and be on your way to an unforgettable cultural experience while expanding the scope of your medical knowledge.
Sandy Sizemore writes on many consumer related topics including health care. You can find travel nursing companies and info on international travel nursing and more by visiting our health care website.
International travel nursing can provide a worldwide wealth of knowledge, especially if you are interested in working in some of the poorer countries instead of those with a wealth of riches to offer. The challenges of working in a country that speaks a different language, has a different culture, and has different medical needs can be crucial to the expansion of your nursing knowledge. The development of worldwide knowledge that you are able to take home with you can make the experience one that will allow you to greater utilize the skills that you have learned.
Becoming an international travel nurse can also provide you with a scope of knowledge in the travel field, allowing you to travel while at the same time, performing the job that you love. Perhaps you have something to offer the country where you are placed, and can bring back some of their knowledge as well. The combination of the two knowledge bases can ultimately be beneficial to patients on both sides of the global community. The sharing of knowledge in the medical field is the key to the entire world knowing how to treat the diseases that plague our people, and the utilization of international travel nurses, both into other countries, and from other countries into the United States, will make that happen. Each has knowledge to share, and a skill that is unique, so the working together of the two cultures can only improve what each country is already practicing.
International travel nursing can be a rewarding experience for both the nurse and the people she is sent to serve both culturally and medically. The placement agency knows how important this is and will strive to make certain that each nurse is placed where the needs can best be met within the scope of her desires. If nursing in another country appeals to you, be sure to contact one of the companies that places nurses internationally and be on your way to an unforgettable cultural experience while expanding the scope of your medical knowledge.
Sandy Sizemore writes on many consumer related topics including health care. You can find travel nursing companies and info on international travel nursing and more by visiting our health care website.
Cirrus Medical Staffing's Travel Nurses
I’m looking for some skilled case managers who are willing to go on Travel Nurse Jobs assignments to Florida and California. Does anyone know a good site to find and attract these people? Travel assignments would last a minimum of 13 weeks, with the option of extending for additional 8-13 week assignments.Because they’re difficult to find, I would love to hear from some CMs about what would entice them to travel.More about Cirrus Medical StaffingPick a place. Any place. From the Carolina beaches to the Colorado Rockies to the California coast. From scenic Alaska to sunny Hawaii. From the bustle of Manhattan to the quiet charm of a small New England village. All across the country, hospitals are faced with critical staffing shortages, ranging from allied health professionals to critical nursing units. And hospitals want to attract traveling medical professionals to work on a contractual basis. Cirrus Medical Staffing is a Travel Nursing Agency and, an A. Soriano Corporation (ANSCOR) company, specializes in the placement of healthcare professionals. Cirrus Medical Staffing provides Travel Nurses, Travel Allied Health Professionals and Permanent Placement services throughout the entire United States. In addition, Cirrus is pleased to provide international staffing augmentation to our client facilities through our sister company, Medtivia. If you're a Nurse or Allied Health professional looking for a Nurse Staffing Agency and ready to earn top dollar while you leverage your skills and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime, this is where your journey begins. If you're a Travel Nurse, you've come to the right place.
Travel Nursing Jobs, Traveling Nursing Jobs, Travel Nurse Jobs As a Career Option
If you are thinking of becoming a travel nurse then it is a viable career option as you will have more salary than the permanent and para diem nurses. If we look back then it is in the year1920 when traveling nursing jobs came into existence after the shortage for nurses was felt. It is the most popular career in USA as the demand for travel nurses is mounting owing to less number of nurses in specific regions. There are around 25,500 travel nurses in USA and about 340 US travel nurse companies. Travel nursing jobs are the short term nursing jobs (4 to 52 weeks) in which the nurses have to travel to different parts of the country. The contract that is outside the country is of longer period like one to two years. Travel nurse job gives you the wonderful experience of meeting new people and enjoying different seasons and states of the country. Depending upon the project you can choose the period of stay in the travel nursing job. Like some nurses prefer to stay for one month other for one year. How to become a travel nurse?To become a travel nurse one will have to complete the education from the affiliated nursing school to get the Registered Nurse degree. You can go for any of the following types of education Four years BSN degree Two years ADN program Three years diploma Along with this one must have the clinical experience of one year as a licensed nurse in the area of his or her specialization to get into traveling nursing jobs. It is recommended that you must get two to three years of experience for the International travel nursing jobs. The requirement of experience vary with the specialization. Like LPN/LVN requires three years of experience where as for Psychiatric travel nurse job, Med-Surg and Rehab you need the experience of two years to get travel nursing jobs. Also clearing NCLEX-RN exam is must to become a travel nurse in USA. Along with this as a travel nurse you will have to get the license of that particular state. You travel nursing company will help you in getting that.Apart from the education and experience you must have a charming personality, easy to adapt nature and good communication skills.Traveling nurse jobs is obtained through the travel agency or travel nursing companies that are tied up with the hospitals. Travel nursing companies not only help you in finding the travel nursing jobs but will also help you with the relocation, housing and registration with local authorities. But you will have to be very careful while choosing the travel nurse company as the services provided vary a lot from company to company. So always ask for the entire services that travel nurse agency or company is going to provide while giving the travel nursing job to you. Do ask for clinical support, type of health insurance and 401(k), type of housing, salary and associated benefits, work assignments and loyalty programs.You can tell your requirement of travel nurse job to your travel nurse company so that can find the best suitable match. You can start your travel nurse jobs after accepting and processing of your job offer. This can take one week to one month's time. Benefits of Traveling Nurse JobsFirst of all travel nurse salary is more than the registered nurse working in the same hospital. Apart from this travel nurse will get the housing facility while on work by the travel agencies with basic furnishings of washer dryers, dishwashers etc. Housing stipend is given to the nurses who choose to live independently of travel agency. The amount of stipend is more than the actual wages or it can be substantial. Along with this the travel allowances are also paid by the travel agencies that but the coverage of the travel cost vary. So you must inquire about this things before getting travel nursing job. Tax advantages are also given if the nurse maintain tax home while working in the traveling nurse job.Travel Nurse SalaryTravel nursing pay vary a lot and generally changes with the location, hospital need, housing cost of the area and negotiation ability of the traveler. Like you will find more travel nurse salary if you are given travel nursing jobs in north or west America than the southern American States. The RN travel nurse salary can be $40 per hour whereas surgical technologists, respiratory therapist and LPN will get pay close to $28 per hour. Some of the hospitals and travel agencies also give bonus that can reach to $6,000 and given at the end of the assignment.You can also begin your traveling nurse job with your friend or family. So no need to worry about anything to begin the adventurous career as a travel nurse.
R Oberoi is associated with Manpower from India and suggests www.manpowerindia.net for further reading & information on current recruitment in different industries.
Selena: A Life Remembered (Part 2)
~Continued from Part 1~
As Selena's popularity grew placing additional demands on the band (e.g. travel), Abraham removed Selena from the 8th grade, drawing immediate unwarranted criticism. Some accused him of violating Child Labor laws while others warned that he was ruining his kids. "They'll be surrounded by drinking and drugs" and "it's going to have an effect on them," the critics incorrectly predicted.[1]
Despite the skeptics, Selena remained unaffected. She continued to have fun and enjoy singing. She kept her down-to-earth personality and refused to snub anyone, believing that "if you treat people good, it [will] come back" in the end.[2] Accordingly, Selena always maintained a great repertoire with her fans and audience.[3] At the same time, she also kept up with her academics and earned a G.E.D. from a Chicago-based Correspondence School at 17.
As Selena was growing into a star, her brother, A.B. III was becoming an accomplished songwriter and producer, after originally taking it up to supply his youngest sister with the quality, original material that the band lacked. One of his first songs, "Dame Un Beso" enjoyed moderate success. Before long, A.B. III supplanted his father as the band's leading songwriter. In addition, Ricky Vela, another band member also assisted with music composition.
When the band's second album, "Alpha" was released, it brought Selena her first music honors. She won "Female Vocalist of the Year" at the 1987 West Texas Hispanic Music Awards and KFLZ Awards ceremonies and was voted "Female Vocalist of the Year" and "Performer of the Year" at the Tejano Music Awards. This recognition introduced Selena to two influential people: Rick Trevino, founder of the Tejano Music Awards and Johnny Canales, a television personality on one of the top-rated Spanish shows. Their efforts gave Selena much needed publicity, expanding the horizons for "Selena Y Los Dinos."
Two more albums, "Preciosa" and "Dulce Amor" were released in 1988 earning Selena greater recognition. With album sales exceeding 20,000, Selena's name began to spread beyond Texas. Not surprisingly, Selena was a finalist for "Female Vocalist of the Year" for 1988 and "Terco Corazon" and A.B. III were nominated for "Single of the Year" and "Songwriter of the Year," respectively, at the Tejano Music Awards.
Despite Selena's growing fame, the Quintanillas' lifestyle had not changed much. They continued to live on beans and hamburgers and shared just about everything. As a result, they had "Nobody You Know" written at the top of the band's bus, "Big Bertha's" front windshield.
Their fortunes, though, changed dramatically when Selena was signed by Jose Behar, the former head of Sony's Latin music division and creator of the Capitol/EMI Latin label in 1989. The signing came about when Behar and a friend, Mario Ruiz, who became President of EMI Mexico attended the 1989 Tejano Music Awards searching for new talent and discovered Selena. The events went as follows according to the account by Jose Behar:
"...We were standing at the back of the auditorium when we saw her. Mario and I looked at each other like, 'Wow. This is special.'"
"...I said, 'It's interesting. Women don't sell in the Tejano market.' And they really hadn't. Yet I said to myself, 'This is the crossover act I'm looking for."[4]
Afterwards, Behar, believing that he had found the next Gloria Estefan, a popular and successful crossover Latin artist went backstage and met and signed Selena after talking to her father. At the time, Behar never imagined how many records Selena would eventually sell.
Despite her signing with Capitol/EMI Latin and her taking "Female Vocalist of the Year" honors at the 1989 and 1990 Tejano Music Awards, and also "Female Entertainer of the Year" at the 1990 Tejano Music Awards, Selena's first few new releases did little better than her previous ones. However, another breakthrough came in 1991 when she was paired with Alvaro Torres in "Buenos Amigos." Their video soared to #1 on the Billboard Latin Tracks Chart giving Selena national exposure. An appearance on "Donde Quiero Que Estes" with the Barrio Boyzz, an immensely popular Latin band further enhanced Selena's rising stature, enabling her to enter the international Latin market with her solo hits, "La Carcacha" and "Como La Flor."
Johnny Canales then helped make Selena an instant Celebrity in Mexico leading to an offer star in a leading role in a Mexican Soap opera, which she turned down because of its steamy scenes. Though determined to make it big, Selena wasn't about to sacrifice her principles. She valued her appeal to her broad audience that consisted of young children and grandparents alike.
Performing in skin-tight pants, low-cut bustiers, and shiny outfits was her limit. Unlike many others, Selena did not need to forego her morals for fame. Her natural-born talent was sufficient. In addition, when Johnny Canales compared Selena to Madonna, Whitney Houston, and Janet Jackson, all pop stars, he declared, "I'd say [Selena] was like those people, but better. Those people never sang Tejano. She could do what they do, but it would be hard for them to do what she does."[5]
Also during this time, the Los Dinos Band was expanding, providing Selena with some of her happiest moments. Pete Astudillo, a Laredo, Texas native and talented artist joined in 1989. Together, he and Selena went on to perform hit duets like "Yo Te Amo" and "Amame, Quiereme."[6] Accordingly the pair were twice nominated for "Vocal Duo of the Year" at the Tejano Music Awards.
A second great addition was Chris Perez, who briefly joined Los Dinos in 1988, left a year later to try it on his own, and then returned in 1990. Chris was a talented guitarist who eventually became Selena's husband. They were married on April 2, 1992.
Although Selena's father initially opposed the marriage, he soon viewed Chris as "a son."[7] Afterwards, Selena and Chris shared a nearby house, with her parents living next door in one house and her brother, A.B. III and his wife and children in another. Between the three houses there were nine dogs, five of which belonged to Selena, an avid animal lover. Later the pair bought a piece of land a little further away with plans to build a larger house to start a family and run a small farm. Prior to her death, Selena had already picked out the furniture.
As Selena's career took off, she released two hit albums: "Ven Conmigo" featuring the hit song "Baila Esta Cumbia" in 1990 and "Entre A Mi Mundo" featuring the hit songs "La Carcacha" and "Como La Flor" in 1992. The great success of these albums completed Selena's transformation from "unknown" to "star." Then a show featuring Selena, La Mafia, and Emilia Navaira at the Summit in Houston in the summer of 1991 drew more than 9000 people. Next followed "Selena Live" in 1993, which gave the young singer her first Grammy along with three Tejano Awards, opening the door to mainstream pop.
After four years of attempts, Jim Behar, using Selena's soaring popularity and sales to their advantage, finally convinced EMI's pop division to give her the crossover chance she had been dreaming of. Prior to 1993, Behar had faced repeated setbacks and had to start over each time when key executives left the Company. As one EMI executive, Nancy Brennan, Vice President of Artist and Repertoire summarized, "All he [Behar] ever talked about was Selena. He was like a broken record, 'Selena, Selena...'"[8]
Brennan was exposed to Selena when she attended a Billboard Latin Music Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada to see Jon Secada, an immensely popular EMI artist. There, Selena's opening made a lasting impression. By December 1993, Selena had been signed by EMI's SBK subsidiary to begin her crossover album, which took a year-and-a-half to produce due to the tedious effort of finding the right songs and producers.
The 1994 "Amor Prohibido" success also added to the crossover delays since Selena was requested to appear everywhere. Nancy Brennan recounted one such episode when had been forced to postpone a recording session: "This is the first time I have ever made a debut album by an artist who was too busy to record for me. How can you tell someone, 'No I don't want you to play the Astrodome for 60,000 people; I want you to work on your record.' Everyone wants her."[9]
The "Amor Prohibido" album featuring four #1 Latin Singles (title track "Amor Prohibido" "No Me Queda Mas," "Bidi Bidi Bom Bom," and "Fotos Y Recuerdos" launched Selena's greatest year to date. When "Amor Prohibido" came out, it promptly replaced Gloria Estefan's "Mi Tierra" at #1 on Billboard's Latin Tracks Charts and even made the top 200 on Billboard's Pop Charts. It led to six awards at the Tejano Music Awards ceremony attended by more than 45,000 people - "Female Entertainer of the Year," "Female Vocalist of the Year," "Orchestra Album of the Year," Record of the Year," "Bidi Bidi Bom Bom" "Song of the Year," and "Techno Cumbia, "Crossover Song of the Year." More than 400,000 copies had sold at the time of Selena's death less than a year after its release.
Selena also realized two more dreams in 1994. First, she opened a boutique/salon in Corpus Christi called "Selena Etc." Since childhood, Selena had dreamed of designing clothing and jewelry. Second, she played a bit-role "Don Juan DeMarco," a film released in early 1995 that starred Marlon Brando and Johnny Depp and offered the potential of leading to greater and perhaps leading roles. Acting had been a recent dream of Selena's.
With the impending release of Selena's cross-over album, "Dreaming of You," her wide-spread fame and rocketing demand, a million-dollar record deal, a Grammy Award, endorsements from sponsors like Coca Cola and her own line of clothing, it seemed like Selena's meteoric career could only rise higher. By this time, Selena had been named "one of the most successful Latin entertainers in the world" by "Hispanic Business" magazine.
The sold-out Astrodome Concert for the Houston Livestock and Rodeo February 1995 with a crowd of 61,000+, at the time, the largest in Astrodome history only strengthened this belief. Yet ironically and almost prophetically, when Selena was asked to speculate on her future during a July 1994 interview, she modestly stated, "I just hope still to be alive, hopefully singing still and later on, maybe 10 years yonder, I hope to have a family by then."[10]
Four years earlier, Yolanda Saldivar, a self-professed "biggest Selena fan" had come into Selena's life after persistently requesting to start a fan club in her honor. Although Abraham had initially refused, he eventually gave in when Yolanda agreed to make it "not-for-profit" and donate leftover proceeds to charity. Eventually Yolanda's relationship with the Quintanillas deepened when Selena named her Operations Manager to handle sales, customer-relations, and "Selena Etc.'s" finances.
At the time, no one saw Saldivar's dark obsession. Furthermore, no one had been aware that Yolanda had failed to pay off a $5300 student loan, left her nursing job under suspicious circumstances, been turned down by Shelly Lares, a prominent, young Tejano singer to form a "Shelly Lares Fan Club," and been accused of stealing $9200 from a dermatologist she had worked for.
However, by early 1995, Abraham Quintanilla began to receive complaints from upset fans who reported that they were not receiving the Selena packets, consisting of a T-shirt, baseball cap, cassette/CD, and autographed poster they had paid for in membership dues. Money also began to go missing from the boutiques. With their suspicions growing, the Quintanillas conducted an investigation and discovered that Yolanda had written four checks, including one to herself for $3000 from the Fan Club's books. Selena's father then angrily confronted Yolanda who claimed she could explain everything if given some time. Afterwards, Saldivar purchased a .38 caliber gun.
Yet despite the mounting evidence, Selena sent Yolanda to Mexico to assist with opening a "Selena Etc." boutique in Monterrey. Hopeful that they could remain friends after the confrontation, Selena was willing to give Saldivar the chance she had requested - to "prove her innocence and find the missing papers."
Then while in Mexico, Yolanda phoned Selena to hysterically report that the car containing the documents had been stolen and that she had been raped. Yet Yolanda refused medical care when she returned to Corpus Christi. Instead, she requested that Selena meet her at the Day's Inn motel in Corpus Christi. When Selena and her husband arrived, Yolanda failed to produce any documents.
Afterwards, Yolanda called Selena around midnight on the morning of March 31, 1995 claiming that she was suffering from internal bleeding caused by the rape. During the phone conversation, Saldivar pleaded for Selena to return alone, which she did in the morning.
Once there, Selena drove Yolanda to the hospital where she retracted her rape story. Afterwards Selena drove her back to the motel where they both argued after, it is believed, Selena fired her and planned to return a Faberge Egg ring funded by all of the boutique employees, which she had been misled into believing that Yolanda had generously given to her as a gift.
Upon hearing the argument and a gunshot, a maid cleaning a nearby room looked out the window and saw Selena clutching her chest, screaming for help as she fled from Yolanda who clutched the .38 in her right hand, aimed and fired again.
When Selena made it to the lobby, she collapsed, bleeding profusely from her wound. Although the desk clerk locked the door and called 911 for an ambulance, it was too late. Efforts to revive Selena, despite a blood infusion and electric shocks that briefly restarted her heart, were to no avail. She was pronounced dead at 1:05 PM. Afterwards, tens of thousands filed past Selena's open coffin to pay their last respects as her body lay in state.
Today, nearly 12 years after her death, Selena's legacy lives on. Despite the tragedy, Selena made the crossover into mainstream and is an icon whose spirit still lives. Reminder's of Selena's warmth, generosity, and indelible beauty are all around Corpus Christi. Mirador de la Flor stands along the Gulf shore while a museum dedicated to her career stands only a few miles away. Each year thousands visit Selena's grave, Mirador de la Flor, and the Selena Museum. Selena memorabilia remains popular with rare autographs going at times for more than a $1000. With her continued fame and popularity, it would not be surprising if the United States Post Office eventually issued a stamp to honor Selena's enduring legacy.
__________
[1] Rick Mitchell. Interactive Corpus Christi Caller Times Biography. (Houston Chronicle), 1995.
[2] Rick Mitchell. Interactive Corpus Christi Caller Times Biography. (Houston Chronicle), 1995.
[3] Bill Hewitt, et al. People Weekly. (Chicago, April 17, 1995) 49.
[4] Rick Mitchell. Interactive Corpus Christi Caller Times Biography. (Houston Chronicle), 1995.
[5] Rick Mitchell. Interactive Corpus Christi Caller Times Biography. (Houston Chronicle), 1995.
[6] Himilce Novas. Remembering Selena: A Tribute in Pictures and Words. (St. Martin's Griffin: New York, 1995) 43-44.
[7] Rick Mitchell. Interactive Corpus Christi Caller Times Biography. (Houston Chronicle), 1995.
[8] Rick Mitchell. Interactive Corpus Christi Caller Times Biography. (Houston Chronicle), 1995.
[9] Rick Mitchell. Interactive Corpus Christi Caller Times Biography. (Houston Chronicle), 1995.
[10] Bruce Hagan, Producer; Joshua Kuvin, Editor, et. al. Dateline NBC - Obsession. (April 7, 1995).
William Sutherland is a published poet and writer. He is the author of three books, "Poetry, Prayers & Haiku" (1999), "Russian Spring" (2003) and "Aaliyah Remembered: Her Life & The Person behind the Mystique" (2005) and has been published in poetry anthologies around the world. He has been featured in "Who's Who in New Poets" (1996), "The International Who's Who in Poetry" (2004), and is a member of the "International Poetry Hall of Fame." He is also a contributor to Wikipedia, the number one online encyclopedia.
As Selena's popularity grew placing additional demands on the band (e.g. travel), Abraham removed Selena from the 8th grade, drawing immediate unwarranted criticism. Some accused him of violating Child Labor laws while others warned that he was ruining his kids. "They'll be surrounded by drinking and drugs" and "it's going to have an effect on them," the critics incorrectly predicted.[1]
Despite the skeptics, Selena remained unaffected. She continued to have fun and enjoy singing. She kept her down-to-earth personality and refused to snub anyone, believing that "if you treat people good, it [will] come back" in the end.[2] Accordingly, Selena always maintained a great repertoire with her fans and audience.[3] At the same time, she also kept up with her academics and earned a G.E.D. from a Chicago-based Correspondence School at 17.
As Selena was growing into a star, her brother, A.B. III was becoming an accomplished songwriter and producer, after originally taking it up to supply his youngest sister with the quality, original material that the band lacked. One of his first songs, "Dame Un Beso" enjoyed moderate success. Before long, A.B. III supplanted his father as the band's leading songwriter. In addition, Ricky Vela, another band member also assisted with music composition.
When the band's second album, "Alpha" was released, it brought Selena her first music honors. She won "Female Vocalist of the Year" at the 1987 West Texas Hispanic Music Awards and KFLZ Awards ceremonies and was voted "Female Vocalist of the Year" and "Performer of the Year" at the Tejano Music Awards. This recognition introduced Selena to two influential people: Rick Trevino, founder of the Tejano Music Awards and Johnny Canales, a television personality on one of the top-rated Spanish shows. Their efforts gave Selena much needed publicity, expanding the horizons for "Selena Y Los Dinos."
Two more albums, "Preciosa" and "Dulce Amor" were released in 1988 earning Selena greater recognition. With album sales exceeding 20,000, Selena's name began to spread beyond Texas. Not surprisingly, Selena was a finalist for "Female Vocalist of the Year" for 1988 and "Terco Corazon" and A.B. III were nominated for "Single of the Year" and "Songwriter of the Year," respectively, at the Tejano Music Awards.
Despite Selena's growing fame, the Quintanillas' lifestyle had not changed much. They continued to live on beans and hamburgers and shared just about everything. As a result, they had "Nobody You Know" written at the top of the band's bus, "Big Bertha's" front windshield.
Their fortunes, though, changed dramatically when Selena was signed by Jose Behar, the former head of Sony's Latin music division and creator of the Capitol/EMI Latin label in 1989. The signing came about when Behar and a friend, Mario Ruiz, who became President of EMI Mexico attended the 1989 Tejano Music Awards searching for new talent and discovered Selena. The events went as follows according to the account by Jose Behar:
"...We were standing at the back of the auditorium when we saw her. Mario and I looked at each other like, 'Wow. This is special.'"
"...I said, 'It's interesting. Women don't sell in the Tejano market.' And they really hadn't. Yet I said to myself, 'This is the crossover act I'm looking for."[4]
Afterwards, Behar, believing that he had found the next Gloria Estefan, a popular and successful crossover Latin artist went backstage and met and signed Selena after talking to her father. At the time, Behar never imagined how many records Selena would eventually sell.
Despite her signing with Capitol/EMI Latin and her taking "Female Vocalist of the Year" honors at the 1989 and 1990 Tejano Music Awards, and also "Female Entertainer of the Year" at the 1990 Tejano Music Awards, Selena's first few new releases did little better than her previous ones. However, another breakthrough came in 1991 when she was paired with Alvaro Torres in "Buenos Amigos." Their video soared to #1 on the Billboard Latin Tracks Chart giving Selena national exposure. An appearance on "Donde Quiero Que Estes" with the Barrio Boyzz, an immensely popular Latin band further enhanced Selena's rising stature, enabling her to enter the international Latin market with her solo hits, "La Carcacha" and "Como La Flor."
Johnny Canales then helped make Selena an instant Celebrity in Mexico leading to an offer star in a leading role in a Mexican Soap opera, which she turned down because of its steamy scenes. Though determined to make it big, Selena wasn't about to sacrifice her principles. She valued her appeal to her broad audience that consisted of young children and grandparents alike.
Performing in skin-tight pants, low-cut bustiers, and shiny outfits was her limit. Unlike many others, Selena did not need to forego her morals for fame. Her natural-born talent was sufficient. In addition, when Johnny Canales compared Selena to Madonna, Whitney Houston, and Janet Jackson, all pop stars, he declared, "I'd say [Selena] was like those people, but better. Those people never sang Tejano. She could do what they do, but it would be hard for them to do what she does."[5]
Also during this time, the Los Dinos Band was expanding, providing Selena with some of her happiest moments. Pete Astudillo, a Laredo, Texas native and talented artist joined in 1989. Together, he and Selena went on to perform hit duets like "Yo Te Amo" and "Amame, Quiereme."[6] Accordingly the pair were twice nominated for "Vocal Duo of the Year" at the Tejano Music Awards.
A second great addition was Chris Perez, who briefly joined Los Dinos in 1988, left a year later to try it on his own, and then returned in 1990. Chris was a talented guitarist who eventually became Selena's husband. They were married on April 2, 1992.
Although Selena's father initially opposed the marriage, he soon viewed Chris as "a son."[7] Afterwards, Selena and Chris shared a nearby house, with her parents living next door in one house and her brother, A.B. III and his wife and children in another. Between the three houses there were nine dogs, five of which belonged to Selena, an avid animal lover. Later the pair bought a piece of land a little further away with plans to build a larger house to start a family and run a small farm. Prior to her death, Selena had already picked out the furniture.
As Selena's career took off, she released two hit albums: "Ven Conmigo" featuring the hit song "Baila Esta Cumbia" in 1990 and "Entre A Mi Mundo" featuring the hit songs "La Carcacha" and "Como La Flor" in 1992. The great success of these albums completed Selena's transformation from "unknown" to "star." Then a show featuring Selena, La Mafia, and Emilia Navaira at the Summit in Houston in the summer of 1991 drew more than 9000 people. Next followed "Selena Live" in 1993, which gave the young singer her first Grammy along with three Tejano Awards, opening the door to mainstream pop.
After four years of attempts, Jim Behar, using Selena's soaring popularity and sales to their advantage, finally convinced EMI's pop division to give her the crossover chance she had been dreaming of. Prior to 1993, Behar had faced repeated setbacks and had to start over each time when key executives left the Company. As one EMI executive, Nancy Brennan, Vice President of Artist and Repertoire summarized, "All he [Behar] ever talked about was Selena. He was like a broken record, 'Selena, Selena...'"[8]
Brennan was exposed to Selena when she attended a Billboard Latin Music Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada to see Jon Secada, an immensely popular EMI artist. There, Selena's opening made a lasting impression. By December 1993, Selena had been signed by EMI's SBK subsidiary to begin her crossover album, which took a year-and-a-half to produce due to the tedious effort of finding the right songs and producers.
The 1994 "Amor Prohibido" success also added to the crossover delays since Selena was requested to appear everywhere. Nancy Brennan recounted one such episode when had been forced to postpone a recording session: "This is the first time I have ever made a debut album by an artist who was too busy to record for me. How can you tell someone, 'No I don't want you to play the Astrodome for 60,000 people; I want you to work on your record.' Everyone wants her."[9]
The "Amor Prohibido" album featuring four #1 Latin Singles (title track "Amor Prohibido" "No Me Queda Mas," "Bidi Bidi Bom Bom," and "Fotos Y Recuerdos" launched Selena's greatest year to date. When "Amor Prohibido" came out, it promptly replaced Gloria Estefan's "Mi Tierra" at #1 on Billboard's Latin Tracks Charts and even made the top 200 on Billboard's Pop Charts. It led to six awards at the Tejano Music Awards ceremony attended by more than 45,000 people - "Female Entertainer of the Year," "Female Vocalist of the Year," "Orchestra Album of the Year," Record of the Year," "Bidi Bidi Bom Bom" "Song of the Year," and "Techno Cumbia, "Crossover Song of the Year." More than 400,000 copies had sold at the time of Selena's death less than a year after its release.
Selena also realized two more dreams in 1994. First, she opened a boutique/salon in Corpus Christi called "Selena Etc." Since childhood, Selena had dreamed of designing clothing and jewelry. Second, she played a bit-role "Don Juan DeMarco," a film released in early 1995 that starred Marlon Brando and Johnny Depp and offered the potential of leading to greater and perhaps leading roles. Acting had been a recent dream of Selena's.
With the impending release of Selena's cross-over album, "Dreaming of You," her wide-spread fame and rocketing demand, a million-dollar record deal, a Grammy Award, endorsements from sponsors like Coca Cola and her own line of clothing, it seemed like Selena's meteoric career could only rise higher. By this time, Selena had been named "one of the most successful Latin entertainers in the world" by "Hispanic Business" magazine.
The sold-out Astrodome Concert for the Houston Livestock and Rodeo February 1995 with a crowd of 61,000+, at the time, the largest in Astrodome history only strengthened this belief. Yet ironically and almost prophetically, when Selena was asked to speculate on her future during a July 1994 interview, she modestly stated, "I just hope still to be alive, hopefully singing still and later on, maybe 10 years yonder, I hope to have a family by then."[10]
Four years earlier, Yolanda Saldivar, a self-professed "biggest Selena fan" had come into Selena's life after persistently requesting to start a fan club in her honor. Although Abraham had initially refused, he eventually gave in when Yolanda agreed to make it "not-for-profit" and donate leftover proceeds to charity. Eventually Yolanda's relationship with the Quintanillas deepened when Selena named her Operations Manager to handle sales, customer-relations, and "Selena Etc.'s" finances.
At the time, no one saw Saldivar's dark obsession. Furthermore, no one had been aware that Yolanda had failed to pay off a $5300 student loan, left her nursing job under suspicious circumstances, been turned down by Shelly Lares, a prominent, young Tejano singer to form a "Shelly Lares Fan Club," and been accused of stealing $9200 from a dermatologist she had worked for.
However, by early 1995, Abraham Quintanilla began to receive complaints from upset fans who reported that they were not receiving the Selena packets, consisting of a T-shirt, baseball cap, cassette/CD, and autographed poster they had paid for in membership dues. Money also began to go missing from the boutiques. With their suspicions growing, the Quintanillas conducted an investigation and discovered that Yolanda had written four checks, including one to herself for $3000 from the Fan Club's books. Selena's father then angrily confronted Yolanda who claimed she could explain everything if given some time. Afterwards, Saldivar purchased a .38 caliber gun.
Yet despite the mounting evidence, Selena sent Yolanda to Mexico to assist with opening a "Selena Etc." boutique in Monterrey. Hopeful that they could remain friends after the confrontation, Selena was willing to give Saldivar the chance she had requested - to "prove her innocence and find the missing papers."
Then while in Mexico, Yolanda phoned Selena to hysterically report that the car containing the documents had been stolen and that she had been raped. Yet Yolanda refused medical care when she returned to Corpus Christi. Instead, she requested that Selena meet her at the Day's Inn motel in Corpus Christi. When Selena and her husband arrived, Yolanda failed to produce any documents.
Afterwards, Yolanda called Selena around midnight on the morning of March 31, 1995 claiming that she was suffering from internal bleeding caused by the rape. During the phone conversation, Saldivar pleaded for Selena to return alone, which she did in the morning.
Once there, Selena drove Yolanda to the hospital where she retracted her rape story. Afterwards Selena drove her back to the motel where they both argued after, it is believed, Selena fired her and planned to return a Faberge Egg ring funded by all of the boutique employees, which she had been misled into believing that Yolanda had generously given to her as a gift.
Upon hearing the argument and a gunshot, a maid cleaning a nearby room looked out the window and saw Selena clutching her chest, screaming for help as she fled from Yolanda who clutched the .38 in her right hand, aimed and fired again.
When Selena made it to the lobby, she collapsed, bleeding profusely from her wound. Although the desk clerk locked the door and called 911 for an ambulance, it was too late. Efforts to revive Selena, despite a blood infusion and electric shocks that briefly restarted her heart, were to no avail. She was pronounced dead at 1:05 PM. Afterwards, tens of thousands filed past Selena's open coffin to pay their last respects as her body lay in state.
Today, nearly 12 years after her death, Selena's legacy lives on. Despite the tragedy, Selena made the crossover into mainstream and is an icon whose spirit still lives. Reminder's of Selena's warmth, generosity, and indelible beauty are all around Corpus Christi. Mirador de la Flor stands along the Gulf shore while a museum dedicated to her career stands only a few miles away. Each year thousands visit Selena's grave, Mirador de la Flor, and the Selena Museum. Selena memorabilia remains popular with rare autographs going at times for more than a $1000. With her continued fame and popularity, it would not be surprising if the United States Post Office eventually issued a stamp to honor Selena's enduring legacy.
__________
[1] Rick Mitchell. Interactive Corpus Christi Caller Times Biography. (Houston Chronicle), 1995.
[2] Rick Mitchell. Interactive Corpus Christi Caller Times Biography. (Houston Chronicle), 1995.
[3] Bill Hewitt, et al. People Weekly. (Chicago, April 17, 1995) 49.
[4] Rick Mitchell. Interactive Corpus Christi Caller Times Biography. (Houston Chronicle), 1995.
[5] Rick Mitchell. Interactive Corpus Christi Caller Times Biography. (Houston Chronicle), 1995.
[6] Himilce Novas. Remembering Selena: A Tribute in Pictures and Words. (St. Martin's Griffin: New York, 1995) 43-44.
[7] Rick Mitchell. Interactive Corpus Christi Caller Times Biography. (Houston Chronicle), 1995.
[8] Rick Mitchell. Interactive Corpus Christi Caller Times Biography. (Houston Chronicle), 1995.
[9] Rick Mitchell. Interactive Corpus Christi Caller Times Biography. (Houston Chronicle), 1995.
[10] Bruce Hagan, Producer; Joshua Kuvin, Editor, et. al. Dateline NBC - Obsession. (April 7, 1995).
William Sutherland is a published poet and writer. He is the author of three books, "Poetry, Prayers & Haiku" (1999), "Russian Spring" (2003) and "Aaliyah Remembered: Her Life & The Person behind the Mystique" (2005) and has been published in poetry anthologies around the world. He has been featured in "Who's Who in New Poets" (1996), "The International Who's Who in Poetry" (2004), and is a member of the "International Poetry Hall of Fame." He is also a contributor to Wikipedia, the number one online encyclopedia.
John Denver's Legacy Continues
June 2, 2004--Almost 7 years since singer/songwriter John Denver's death, and his music and message is strong as ever. Just ask Christine Smith, author of the internationally popular book, A Mountain In The Wind-An Exploration of the Spirituality of John Denver, who not only manages the Annual (now in its 6th year) John Denver Celebration - the premier annual event honoring Denver in the world, but who is also President/Founder of the charity Dreams of Freedom, Inc. which gives his music to prisoners, hospice patients, nursing home residents and others worldwide ( www.johndenverlegacy.com ).
Smith has appeared on numerous talk shows nationwide and worldwide including 1-2 hour interviews on several syndicated radio shows, and even live on the BBC World News, sharing about John Denver's life and his significance. She is continually contacted by people worldwide with incredible stories of how Denver's music touched lives.
"John was a messenger of truth. His music touched millions of hearts because he sang from the heart," she says, noting that each year people travel from worldwide to attend the annual celebration in the small mountain community of Salida, Colorado, "It's a place of renewal, and a time for those who appreciate him to reflect upon what he gave us, and the difference each of us can make for good in this world if we place unconditional love in our heart."
Although the event, with musicians from across America, and guests worldwide, occurs October 1-3, 2004, seats are filling up now due to the limited seating available and the demand.
Smith, who is 37, says Denver was an incredible influence on who she has become, and that many of those attending the celebration share similar stories, "People come here each October and share incredible stories of how his music inspired them, healed, or motivated them. There are times of both tears and laughter during the three days we are together."
Believing his music can change person's lives, Smith gives Denver's music and videos to prisons, nursing homes, hospice, Native American reservations, homes for unwed teen mothers, and shelters nationwide through the charity she founded five years ago, Dreams of Freedom, Inc. In addition to providing his music, the charity supplies warm clothing, soap, toothpaste, antiperspirant, shampoo, and other hygiene items for prisoners nationwide, as well as toys for prisoner's children and other families in need--and everything provided is given in memory of John Denver. Any agency or facility interested in receiving the music and the humanitarian help is welcome to contact her -- services are provided free of charge to numerous prisons, hospitals, nursing homes, homes for unwed teen mothers, and other places where Smith feels his music and humanitarian help will bring encouragement.
"John taught that love is the answer, and I believe that. I view everyone as my brother and sister in the human family, and I want to do all I can to ease suffering. If I see a need that I can help, I want to do so...and I learned that from John's example. He was far more than a singer/songwriter, he was a humanitarian and environmentalist who lives the life and values he sang of."
"I want to make sure John is always remembered for the good works he accomplished as well as his music. Beyond the 'hit' songs, not many people realize the extent of the music he wrote and recorded, nor do they realize the beautiful impact he has had on so many lives. I take every opportunity given me to share the truth of who he was--through interviews, my book, The 6th Annual JD Celebration, and certainly through the charity Dreams of Freedom. I want to share his music and message with all who are receptive."
In addition, her website contains much information about Denver and features a Guest Book which has been signed by individuals worldwide sharing their thoughts and experiences about the man and his music.
Much information regarding John Denver, as well as information on obtaining help or supporting the charity, or details on how to attend The 6th Annual John Denver Celebration are available at Smith's website www.johndenverlegacy.com
Smith has appeared on numerous talk shows nationwide and worldwide including 1-2 hour interviews on several syndicated radio shows, and even live on the BBC World News, sharing about John Denver's life and his significance. She is continually contacted by people worldwide with incredible stories of how Denver's music touched lives.
"John was a messenger of truth. His music touched millions of hearts because he sang from the heart," she says, noting that each year people travel from worldwide to attend the annual celebration in the small mountain community of Salida, Colorado, "It's a place of renewal, and a time for those who appreciate him to reflect upon what he gave us, and the difference each of us can make for good in this world if we place unconditional love in our heart."
Although the event, with musicians from across America, and guests worldwide, occurs October 1-3, 2004, seats are filling up now due to the limited seating available and the demand.
Smith, who is 37, says Denver was an incredible influence on who she has become, and that many of those attending the celebration share similar stories, "People come here each October and share incredible stories of how his music inspired them, healed, or motivated them. There are times of both tears and laughter during the three days we are together."
Believing his music can change person's lives, Smith gives Denver's music and videos to prisons, nursing homes, hospice, Native American reservations, homes for unwed teen mothers, and shelters nationwide through the charity she founded five years ago, Dreams of Freedom, Inc. In addition to providing his music, the charity supplies warm clothing, soap, toothpaste, antiperspirant, shampoo, and other hygiene items for prisoners nationwide, as well as toys for prisoner's children and other families in need--and everything provided is given in memory of John Denver. Any agency or facility interested in receiving the music and the humanitarian help is welcome to contact her -- services are provided free of charge to numerous prisons, hospitals, nursing homes, homes for unwed teen mothers, and other places where Smith feels his music and humanitarian help will bring encouragement.
"John taught that love is the answer, and I believe that. I view everyone as my brother and sister in the human family, and I want to do all I can to ease suffering. If I see a need that I can help, I want to do so...and I learned that from John's example. He was far more than a singer/songwriter, he was a humanitarian and environmentalist who lives the life and values he sang of."
"I want to make sure John is always remembered for the good works he accomplished as well as his music. Beyond the 'hit' songs, not many people realize the extent of the music he wrote and recorded, nor do they realize the beautiful impact he has had on so many lives. I take every opportunity given me to share the truth of who he was--through interviews, my book, The 6th Annual JD Celebration, and certainly through the charity Dreams of Freedom. I want to share his music and message with all who are receptive."
In addition, her website contains much information about Denver and features a Guest Book which has been signed by individuals worldwide sharing their thoughts and experiences about the man and his music.
Much information regarding John Denver, as well as information on obtaining help or supporting the charity, or details on how to attend The 6th Annual John Denver Celebration are available at Smith's website www.johndenverlegacy.com
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