Kamau's Business Blog Page - The World's 1st Black and Minority Business Blog!
Saturday, May 01, 2004
How to make $150,000 on Ebay, Sign Up for Our Free Ebay Super Success Tips Course!
Last week Black Internet Entrepreneur Willie Crawford held us spell bound as he taught us advanced web marketing techniques. Wednesday, May the 5th Stephanie McIntyre of Esales Unlimited will teach us the strategies she uses to sell near $150,000 dollars on Ebay! Sign up for the Free Telecourse at our web marketing web site Search Engine Plan by :Clicking Here!THE BROWNING OF AMERICA: MAKING THE CASE FOR ETHNIC GOODS & SERVICES
New York, NY - When entrepreneur Yuwanda Black started EthnicHomeDecor.com in 2002, she says, "It was just a hobby that grew -- and grew and grew. I had no idea it would be as successful as it is."Black has proven that African and other ethnic Americans crave goods and services that remind them of their culture. Recently, her second site, EthnicVendors.com went live. It is a shopping portal for vendors and consumers interested in ethnic products and services.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there were 38.3 million black or black in combination with one or more other races, Americans as of July 1, 2002. This comprises 13.3% of the total population. Keep in mind, these are just African Americans - not Asians, Hispanics, Indians, etc.
So then, why are ethnic goods and services still so hard to find?
According to Black, it's because ethnic consumers don't have choices. "It's so much easier to just buy that Martha Stewart placemat than search high and low for someone who sells, for example, a mudcloth placemat."
"Although," she continues, "that is changing. I can't tell you the number of emails I get from satisfied customers remarking on how nice it is to have an ethnic pillowcase, table runner, candleholder - simple everyday items - but widely unavailable in large shopping outlets."
The fact is, America is becoming more and more ethnic. Again, citing the U.S. Census Bureau, by the year 2050: individuals of Hispanic origin are expected to increase 188%; almost doubling their share in the nation's population; persons of Asian descent are expected to increase 213%, also effectively doubling their numbers; and people of African descent are expected to increase 71%; raising their numbers to almost 15% of the total U.S. population.
The kicker: during this time, the non-Hispanic white population is projected to decrease to just 50.1% by 2050, compared with 69.4% in 2000.
Ms. Black insists that as the face of America changes, so too will the goods and services major retailers offer. What types of goods and services? To answer this, one has only to peruse the merchants on EthnicVendors.com:
SELF-ESTEEM AND SELF-IMAGE BOOK TO IMPROVE SELF-AWARENESS IN THE COMMUNITY
Indian Head, MD - K. Morris and Company announces newly published self-esteem and self-image book that will improve self-awareness and self-image among adults and youth in the community. Books are available for purchase directly from the author. Kisha M. Morris plans to sell these books to churches as well as individuals for training materials.Self Esteem & Self Image: The Guide to the New You teaches how to deal with daily stresses one situation at a time. This teaching tool helps its readers to start a daily journal and build self-esteem through writing. Included are exercises that let the reader rate how they feel about their life, their work and even home environment. If we focus more on our inner self than our outer self, then we will be able to live happier, more positive and productive lives , says Mrs. Morris, president and founder of K. Morris and Company.
Kisha M. Morris is a poet, author and motivational speaker. She is a wife and the mother of two children. Mrs. Morris has been teaching poetry workshops and self-empowerment seminars for the past 6 years and writing for 10 years. Mrs. Morris teaches professional development, leadership, literary arts, communication and writing skills seminars.
K. Morris & Company is now scheduling book signings, interviews and self esteem seminars to the Washington D.C. Metropolitan Area and some surrounding cities. For more information and to purchase a book, call (301) 743-2322.
WHO'S THE MOST TALENTED OF THEM ALL?
New York, NY - If you're a young lady ages 8-12, then this is the performing arts competition for you! Talented Youth Development, Inc. (T.Y.D.I.) is currently accepting applications for the first annual 2004 T.Y.D.I.'s National Talented Pre-Teen Scholarship Competition to be held June 24-27, 2004 in Atlanta, GA. Applicants must be female, have a performing talent, and be 8-13 years old to compete. Applications are available by calling (313) 438-0061 or via email at tydipreteen@aol.com. Space is available to the first 25 young ladies.Young ladies from across the nation will gather in the beautiful city of Atlanta for this inaugural occasion. State competitions are currently happening from as far away as Michigan, Ohio, Texas, and New Jersey. Grand prize includes a trip to New York City to attend Hal Jackson's Talented Teens International Scholarship Competition and a $1000 Savings Bond to be used for educational purposes among other prizes. Participants will also participate in etiquette training and self esteem workshops.
Kimberly L. Thomas, founder of T.Y.D.I., has been directing scholarship competitions since 2000, is the Michigan Director for Hal Jackson's Talented Teens International (HJTTI), as well as a volunteer publicist for HJTTI/Youth Development Foundation. Thomas has been an avid supporter of HJTTI since 1989 after winning the Ohio Talented Teen title. Providing scholarship opportunities to girls gifted in the performing arts has been her goal ever since someone took the time to allow her to display her talents opening up doors in many arenas. She has since provided pageant consulting services to directors in Tennessee, Trinidad & Tobago, Ohio, and California. Thomas is currently a resident of New York City where she and her husband reside.
T.Y.D.I. is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization dedicated to the personal development of youth. Competitions affiliated with T.Y.D.I. are designed as an outlet for untapped talent as well as to provide training through workshops and seminars by responsible role models in staging, choreography, poise, grace, diction, presenting oneself correctly before an audience, networking, and cultural exchange. Past participants in programs have been awarded over $20,000 in educational scholarships and prizes since 2000 on both the state and international levels.
To become a sponsor, volunteer, or for additional information, please call (313) 438-0061.
MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL RECOGNIZED AS ONE OF ESSENCE MAGAZINE'S 30 "BEST COMPANIES FOR BLACK WOMEN"
Washington, DC - Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) has been recognized by ESSENCE magazine as one of the publication's "Best Companies for Black Women." According to the magazine, the 30 companies that made the list were selected based on their diversity and employee development opportunities for African-American women.For its selections, ESSENCE considered six key factors: organizational commitment to diversity; career development and advancement; work-life balance; representation in the workforce; community involvement and support and inclusive culture. Marriott was the only company in the lodging industry recognized on the list.
"Marriott is excited about being recognized for making diversity an organic part of our organization," said Maruiel Perkins-Chavis, vice-president of Diversity and Workforce Effectiveness. "Minorities make up approximately 24 percent of Marriott's management, and the ESSENCE magazine recognition shows that we are making real strides in the hospitality industry. We're proud of what we have achieved and remain committed to building a diverse workforce."
In recent years, Marriott has received honors for its diversity efforts from numerous organizations, including Latina Style, DiversityInc., Working Mother and Fortune magazines, as well as the NAACP, National Minority Business Council and Black Meetings & Tourism.
Marriott International, the first hospitality company in the world to establish a formal supplier diversity program, today spends more than $150 million a year with over 10,000 minority and women-owned businesses.
LARGEST SPONSORSHIP AGREEMENT IN BLACK COLLEGE SPORTS HISTORY ANNOUNCED BY HISTORICALLY BLACK CONFERENCES AND RUSSELL CORPORATION
Oakland, CA - After negotiating the historic partnership, New Vision Sports Properties announced today that the Historically Black Conferences and Russell Corporation have formed an exclusive agreement that will serve as the basis for a first-of-its-kind licensing alliance for the conferences.Beginning with this fall's football season, the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) and Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) will grant a five-year exclusive license to Russell to manufacture and sell the merchandise of the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) comprising the conferences. As part of the agreement, Russell will provide the conferences with royalties on the sales of apparel licensed through the institutions. Russell will also supply the schools with some uniforms, performance and casual apparel, and athletic equipment at no cost, whereas in the past the HBCU schools purchased all of their own products.
"New Vision Sports has created an opportunity for the conferences to leverage our visibility in a way that will greatly improve our athletic programs," says SWAC Commissioner Robert Vowels. "The SWAC is proud to be involved in such a historic partnership."
Athletic programs from the three conferences included in the agreement are men's and women's basketball and soccer, football, baseball, softball and volleyball.
"These agreements expand our opportunities beyond the team uniform business," said Jon Letzler, Russell Corporation president and COO. "By including our Russell Athletic, JERZEES, Moving Comfort, Bike and Spalding brands, we will have increased brand awareness and sales opportunities from the playing fields to the college bookstores. In addition to the business opportunities for Russell brands, the colleges and universities will have the best apparel and equipment based on our more than 100 years of experience. This is a true win-win situation."
"This unprecedented association we have formed with Russell marks a major step forward for our sports programs," says SIAC Commissioner Dr. William Lide. "Significant new dollars will reach our athletic programs through this agreement. This allows us to take more control over what products we present to consumers. It also opens new doors for Russell and its products."
The SIAC and SWAC are comprised of 21 institutions of higher learning that have been in existence for over 100 years, producing some of the sporting world's most famous athletes, including legendary names like Deacon Jones, Edwin Moses, Walter Payton, Lou Brock, Shannon Sharpe and Willis Reed among others.
New Vision Sports Properties of Oakland, California is a full service sports marketing company that specializes in selling, executing and servicing major corporate sponsorships. In it's first year of representing the SWAC, MEAC and SIAC as a group, New Vision has aggressively implemented a multi-faceted sports marketing program that has generated huge dividends for the universities in the form of a newly created and extensive television deal and a new merchandise/retail program. As part of its newly created corporate partnerships for the conferences, New Vision has produced relationships with three Fortune 500 companies.
AFRICAN AMERICAN BUSINESS SUMMIT AND "LIVING HISTORY MAKERS ENTREPRENEURS AWARDS"
WHAT: Wells Fargo and Turning Point Magazine presents the 7th Annual African American Business Summit and the "2004 Living History Makers Entrepreneur Award".The African American Business Summit is the largest business-to-business conference that brings together business owners, corporate executives and decision makers in an environment that cultivates the exchange of information and strategies that will lead to the expansion of black business.
The "2004 Living History Makers Entrepreneur Award" pays tribute to one African American business owner who best exemplifies the spirit of a living history maker. The recipient will be awarded a trophy and $5,000 at the 7th Annual African American Business Summit. Complete applications with all materials enclosed MUST be postmarked by May 15, 2004.
WHEN: The Award will be presented on June 18, 2004 at 7:00 pm.
WHERE: 7th Annual African American Business Summit is being held at the Irvine Marriott Hotel, located in Irvine, California June 17-20, 2004.
HOW: To view the Living History Makers Entrepreneur Award's nomination, evaluation, and selection criteria - or -- to make a nomination of an African American Business Owner, please go to: www.turningpointmagazine.com/5000.pdf
For additional information contact:
BREEJ TECHNOLOGIES Tackles the long standing black shaving bump problem
Lowell, MA - BREEJ Technologies, a leader in advanced Shaving Bumps Treatment announced today that it has inked a deal with JAH'S Marketing of Hyattsville, MD for the continued promotion of its Revolutionary Anti Bump Line at Eleven CVS Stores in the Washington DC/Maryland/Virginia Region. A national roll out of the BREEJ Anti Bump System at 800 CVS stores nationwide is planned for the third quarter 2004."We are thrilled that our products [as expected] have taken off very well in the DC/MD/VA region with sales increasing over 250% in just 3 months and very excited about our new relationship with JAH'S Marketing as their knowledge and experience in the DC/MD/VA region will be most useful to us in getting the word out on our Proven Anti Bump System to all dealing with Shaving Bumps especially the very difficult to treat "Back of the Head" Bumps" notes Dr. Anaebonam, Developer of the BREEJ Advanced Shaving Bump Treatment System.
"This opportunity is an excellent one for us, as we will be assisting BREEJ in the marketing and promotion of a fantastic anti bump line that will finally end to the daily struggle of black men [and women in their lives] dealing with the awful and often embarrassing problem of shaving bumps, states Margaret Dureke, a Principal of JAH'S Marketing.
About Shaving Bumps - A Health and Career issue for African American Men:
Shaving Bumps plague over 5 Million African American men in the United States and more than 300 million men of color worldwide. The problem is significant, as black men have faced career limiting assignments due to their inability to get smooth shaves. For US service men a clean shave is crucial for dangerous assignments that may require gas masks, as a clean shave is required for proper fit. We are aware of several cases where Black men in various armed forces have been re-assigned to desk jobs because they could not get smooth bump-free shaves!
BREEJ is currently working on a program to customize the BREEJ System for the US armed forces so that all Black servicemen can get smooth, bump-free shaves.
On the Uniqueness of the BREEJ Anti Bump System - "We examined the shaving bumps problem scientifically and concluded that Shaving Bumps are primarily caused by Trauma from Shaving, resulting in inflammation of the shaved area manifested as "bumps" as the body reacts to the trauma, compounded at times by infections and the reaction of damaged Melanin Cells [the later explains why people of color tend to have this problem more than Caucasians]," stated Dr. Anaebonam, founder of BREEJ.
Dr. Anaebonam continued "improper shaving and at times improper and/or inadequate treatment of the shaved skin are mainly responsible for Shaving Bumps".
BREEJ is the only company on record to disagree with the widely held view that Shaving Bumps are caused by "in-grown" hairs - wiry, curly hairs that curl and grow back into the skin." This concept of "in-grown" hairs has led to a lot of poking & probing of the shaved area with tweezers and other special items often further aggravating the problem. BREEJ discourages this practice as the additional trauma can lead to infection, hyper pigmentation and significant skin damage.
BREEJ offers FREE unlimited shaving tips and guide to its customers and potential customers by phone, email or standard mail. Dr. Anaebonam concluded: "The BREEJ Advanced Shaving Bump System is currently the World's most Technologically Advanced Shaving Bumps Treatment System and is the result of an unprecedented scientific collaboration that involved seven companies in the USA, Italy, France and Switzerland".
Results are seen with the BREEJ advanced shaving Bumps system in 2-4 days and BREEJ guarantees to get rid of the worst case of shaving bumps in 7 - 10 days!
BREEJ products are also available online @ www.BlackLuxuryShave.com
NOMINATE A SINGLE PARENT FOR THE 2004 "SINGLE PARENT RECOGNITION AWARDS"
Los Angeles, CA - The Single Parent Recognition Awards is looking for the single parent of the year for 2004. The organization was founded in 1996 by M.C. Collins, an inspirational African-American entrepreneur and investor. His purpose was to recognize and honor the importance, strength, courage, and hard work it takes to single-handedly raise well-balanced children.Mr. Collins is originally from Louisiana but was raised in Chicago by a mother who later became a single parent. He comes from a very large family of siblings that are single parents; His oldest daughter is a single parent, and five years ago he married a single parent. Through out the years, Mr. Collins watched the struggles and sacrifices that it took for his family and friends to raise well-rounded children that ultimately became very successful. This ultimately inspired him to launch the Single Parent Recognition Awards to commend those parents who did the impossible.
To nominate a friend or relative, interested ones should write a letter of 100 words or less telling why your nominee should be the single parent of the year. All nominations should be sent through postal mail to the following address: S.P.R.A. - 3470 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 511, Los Angeles, CA 90010. All submissions should be postmarked on or before August 21, 2004.
On November 13, 2004, an award show and dinner dance will be held at the Bonaventure Hotel in Los Angeles to honor the single parent of the year. The program will be sponsored by The Entrepreneur Network and AA-TimePiece Studio, and a portion of the proceeds will benefit needy children in Africa and in the United States.
Sponsors and donations are needed. Those interested in either should call (213) 388-1815 or email forsingleparents@aol.com - All donations will be given to the participating single parents.
THE 7TH ANNUAL AFRICAN AMERICAN BUSINESS SUMMIT AT THE MARRIOTT HOTEL IN IRVINE, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 17-20, 2004
Mark your calendars and register now to attend the most powerful business event of the year!
Playa Del Rey, CA - Turning Point Communications and the TPC Foundation, Inc., are proud to announce their June 17- 20, 2004 National Business Event: African American Summit 2004, "Powerful Solutions to Build Your Power Business".
This must not miss 7th annual event is the largest business-to-business gathering of black entrepreneurs in the western region; with hundreds of attendees from across the country is expected in 2004. The African American Business Summit educates, motivates and empowers entrepreneurs through powerful general sessions, targeted workshops and ample opportunities for direct interaction with corporate partners.
African American Summit 2004
Powerful Solutions to Build Your Power Business
When: June 17th - 20th, 2004
Where: Irvine Marriott Hotel, 18000 Von Karman Ave, Irvine, CA 92612
Cost & Registration: www.turningpointmagazine.com
Willie E. Gary, noted Attorney and President of MBC Network, is the African American Business Summit's 2004 Chairman.
Speakers/Sessions include: Best Selling Author of "E-Myth: Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About it", Michael Gerber -- Top 10 (#9) National Mary Kay Independent Sales Director, Gloria Mayfield Banks -- The Number One Authority on Supplier Diversity, Reggie Williams and Turning Point Magazine Founder and Publisher Pat A. Means of the Nation's Top Magazine for African American Small Business ...and over 30 more small business experts to help power your business!
Special Events: A Fortune 500 'CEO Roundtable' Moderated by Willie E. Gary -- Million Dollar Millennium Opening Night Gala Reception - $5,000 Living History Maker Entrepreneur Award Ceremony -- Youth Entrepreneur/Financial Literacy Workshop - 100 Black Men of Orange County's 3rd Annual Economic Development Golf Tournament Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at the Oak Creek Golf Club, Irvine, CA - Franchise Institute --"Cash Flow" Reception and Competition -- Spiritual Business Principals Gospel Brunch ...and more!
Partial List of Sponsors: Wells Fargo Bank, Turning Point Communications, TPC Foundation, Inc., 100 Black Men of Orange County, the City of Irvine, the City of Santa Ana, the City of Anaheim.
THE FIRST AFRICAN-AMERICAN PUBLISHERS PAVILION ALMOST SOLD OUT FOR THE BOOK EXPO AMERICA IN CHICAGO JUNE 4TH - 6TH 2004
New York, NY - First ever African American Pavilion at Book Expo America 2004 is well on its way to over-achieving. "We expected to fill 1400 square feet our first year, but we are at 1500 square feet and will probably fill another 100-200 square feet before we close out the Pavilion," said Niani Colom, Associate Publisher of Genesis Press, Pavilion coordinator, and Pavilion co-creator.Book Expo America has been a long-standing tradition for any book publisher that wishes to receive national exposure and ranks as one of the largest book exhibits in the world. "You can imagine the impact we expect a pavilion of this type to create in the industry. This is the first time that we, as African-American publishers, have united with one face at Book Expo America," said Tony Rose, Publisher, Amber Communications Group, Inc. and Pavilion co-creator.
"Book Expo America is quite pleased with this new pavilion and has given the Pavilion our full support. We believe this only adds to the dimensions and diversity we offer every year at Book Expo, that keeps exhibitors and attendees coming back every year," said Greg Topalian, Show Director, Book Expo America.
The Pavilion will now include: Genesis Press, Black Issues Book Review, Amber Communications Group, Inc., Third World Press, FYOS Entertainment, Strebor Books International, Walk Worthy Press, Red Sea/Africa World Press, Literally Speaking, Just Us Books and Black Americans in Publishing. "The newest additions include, Hilton Publishing, Mirror-Gibbs, African American Books On Tour, and Self-Assured, a booth for self-published authors," added Colom.
Hinting at the future of the Pavilion and beyond, Colom stated, "We plan to make the African American Pavilion a representation of our books to create a stir and make sure everyone wants to stop by. We are responsible for creating our own image and for displaying our diversity, which is why the African-American Pavilion Association has been formed," she added.
Adrienne Ingrum, Associate Publisher of Black Issues Book Review is also a co-creator of the African-American Pavilion.
The African American Pavilion will be housed at Book Expo America in the McCormick Place South, Level 3 Exhibit Hall A, booths 4148 to 4157. Visitors can expect numerous signings and giveaways at exhibitor booths. For more information, e-mail: amberbk@aol.com
For more information contact: Amber Communications Group, Inc. 1334 E. Chandler Blvd. Suite 5-D67, Phoenix, AZ 85048, Phone: 480-460-1660 / 201-433-4324, E-mail: amberbk@aol.com / Website: www.amberbooks.com
Amber Communications Group, Inc. Booth # 4150
MINORITY BUSINESS REWARDS PROGRAM CUTS MEMBERSHIP FEE IN HALF
Minority Professionals and Entrepreneurs Get Exclusive Discounts For Just $49.99 a YearLos Angeles, CA - The Minority Business Rewards Program (MBRP) is a new online discount platform that provides minority, women, and disabled professionals and entrepreneurs with discounts of up to 60% on products and services from over 200 leading US companies.
The membership fee is normally $99. However, for a limited time only, the membership fee is just $49 a year - Plus new members will receive their 2nd year free as a bonus. Pat Means, co-founder of the program and founder of Turning Point Magazine, comments, "The Minority Business Rewards Program is extremely useful for all minority professionals. We decided to lower the membership fee in order to help those hesitant ones to go ahead and make the right decision to join."
Members receive discounts from over 200 participating companies like Dell, Hertz, Barnes & Noble, OfficeMax, Timberland, and K-mart. Discounted products and services are available from almost every category - business products/services, travel, entertainment, clothing, home appliances - and include most of the country's leading brands.
Unlike other buying services, the Minority Business Rewards Program allows members to purchase as individuals - members are not required to buy as a group, and there is no obligation for a minimum purchase.
MBRP members also receive a free subscription to Minority Business Today, a monthly e-newsletter providing business news, tips, and resources, and a free copy of the How To Get Money For Your Business report - a guide on how to establish and maintain business and personal credit.
For more details on this dynamic program, visit www.MinorityBizRewards.com
GROUP AND ORGANIZATION AFFILIATE PROGRAM
Through the MBRP Affiliate Program, organizations (clubs, churches, professional groups and associations, etc.) are able to earn a recurring 10% commission on all memberships generated by the organization. All organizations must have at least one hundred members. Details are available at www.MinorityBizRewards.com/affiliates
ABOUT MBRP
The Minority Business Rewards Program (MBRP) is offered by the National Association of Minority Business Professionals (www.NAMBP.org), which provides support services for minority entrepreneurs and professionals. Founders Dante Lee, President and CEO of Diversity City Media, which owns BlackNews.com and BlackPR.com, and Pat Means, President and Publisher of Turning Point Magazine, are available for interviews at (562) 209-0616 / dante@minoritybizrewards.com or (310) 821-6910 / pat@minoritybizrewards.com
FROM HOUSTON TO JAMAICA - TRADE FOUNDATION FOR THE FUTURE
Forum Introduces Houston Black Business Owners To International TradingHouston, TX - The Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce (HCCC), organized in 1935 to promote and develop African-American business interests within the greater Houston area and its established International Trade Division will host an International Trade Forum in Jamaica, W.I., September 23-26, 2004. The theme "From Houston To Jamaica - Trade Foundation for the Future" is to introduce the small business owner and startup entrepreneur to international trading while familiarizing them with conceivable trading opportunities with Jamaica.
HCCC International Trade Division, with a host of small business owners and startup entrepreneur participants will travel from Houston to Montego Bay Jamaica and then on to Ocho Rios, where they will stay at the beautiful Jamaica Grande Resort for four (4) days and three (3) nights of powerful business engagements and all that Jamaica has to offer.
A delegation of Government Officials, The Honorable Congresswomen Sheila Jackson Lee, representing the 18th congressional district of Houston, City Council Members, Ms. Carol Mims Galloway, Ms. Ada Edwards and Ronald Green, Ms. Argentina James and Ms. Grace Moolchan, representing the Port of Houston Authority and the Consulate General of Jamaica, The Honorable Beverly Ford, will to help acquaint approximately 200 U.S. Small Business Owners and Startup Entrepreneurs to international trading with Jamaica's import/export market. Participants will also attend workshops and seminars to learn how to tap into international trading and profit in a global economy.
The International Trade Forum's small business owners and startup entrepreneur attendees will be addressed by Jamaica's Prime Minister, The Most Honourable P.J. Patterson, U.S. Ambassador Ms. Sue Cobb and other government agency officials at the Welcome Reception. They will also meet and network with Jamaica's Trade Organizations, Manufacturers, Businesses, and suppliers of commodities and/or merchandise that can be sold in the U.S. and other foreign markets.
All small business owners and startup entrepreneurs are ask to be a part of this historical event. The opportunity to learn how to do international trading and enter the global market has never been greater for small business owners than now!
For information about attending this International Trade Forum to Jamaica, please contact Mr. Gersham Fulcott, Chairman of Jamaica Trade Committee, HCCC International Trade Division at (713) 785-4310 or visit the Chamber's web site www.houstoncitizenschamber.com or the trade forum's email address: tradecommittee@aol.com
SUBURBAN ISSUES IN EDUCATIONAL EQUALITY TO BE ADDRESSED BY NEW INSTITUTE CREATED BY PACE UNIVERSITY AND AFRICAN-AMERICAN LEADERSHIP FORUM
SUBURBAN ISSUES IN EDUCATIONAL EQUALITY TO BE ADDRESSED BY NEW INSTITUTE CREATED BY PACE UNIVERSITY AND AFRICAN-AMERICAN LEADERSHIP FORUMBlue-ribbon public symposium April 16 will present incoming head of NAACP Legal Defense fund, former president of National Urban League, analyst of liberation politics, NY State regent, and former head of public schools in Washington, DC
White Plains, NY - The nation's suburbs and large urban centers share similarities with regard to equal educational opportunity -- but also face significant differences.
That is the premise of a new Institute for Advancement of Equality of Educational Opportunity announced today by Pace University and the African-American Leadership Forum (AALF), a coalition of African-American leaders in Westchester County, NY.
On April 16 some of the nation's most prominent authorities on equal opportunity will come together as a blue-ribbon panel to launch the institute, exploring the impact of the U.S. Supreme Court's "Brown vs. Board of Education" decision striking down "separate but equal" public schools. The decision was handed down 50 years ago on May 17.
The panelists will be the new director designate of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Theodore M. Shaw, "the number one black lawyer in the country for constitutional concerns"; the former president of the National Urban League, Hugh B. Price; and the Columbia professor who co-authored a noted book on the "politics of liberation" in America, Charles V. Hamilton, Ph.D.
They will be joined by the Institute's newly named director, Hugh J. Scott, Ed.D., who now is scholar in residence at Pace University. He served for 25 years as dean of education at Hunter College in New York City and is a former superintendent of the public schools in Washington, D.C.
The moderator is Adelaide L. Sanford, Ph.D., Vice-Chancellor of the New York State Board of Regents. Introductory comments will come from David A. Caputo, Ph.D., the president of Pace University, and the Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson, chair of the African American Leadership Forum.
The symposium is free and open to the public. It will take place in White Plains, NY from 5:30 to 8 PM in the auditorium of the New York State Judicial Institute at Pace Law School, 78 North Broadway. It will be followed by a reception. More information is at 914-699-0296 or rcpioneer2@aol.com
Next 50 years. "The challenge of the next fifty years will be to make mainly-minority schools effective," says Scott. "Black students from low-income families are not the only ones who experience educational inequality. Too often, equal access does not mean equal opportunity for middle class black students, either."
Scott says the Institute may investigate barriers such as tracking, testing, special education, the paucity of African-American teachers, and helping black families to be more effective caretakers of the growth and development of their children in a society where the vicissitudes of life for African-Americans still are often harsh, unjust and hard to cope with effectively. The institute will explore common issues with Hispanic communities, he adds.
Changing the agenda. Pace president Caputo said: "We think the Institute's combination of people and resources will get important ideas on the nation's agenda, and will enrich teaching and learning at Pace. The institute is a strong expression of Pace's commitment to engaging in civic issues and of our Latin motto of 'opportunitas.'"
The vice chair of the AALF, Dorothy J. Orr, added: "It is our theory that until our policy and opinion leaders, national and local, acknowledge that race really does matter, there never will be permanent growth and change. The new institute's work will encourage that realization."
Pace is providing start-up funds and office space for the Institute in its Graduate Center on Martine Avenue in downtown White Plains. The Institute will be affiliated with the Pace School of Education, and officially known as the AALF/Pace University Institute for the Advancement of Equality of Educational Opportunity.
The AALF is a volunteer organization of African-American leaders representing pioneers in the civil rights movement and the war on poverty, young leaders with new perspectives on remedying racial issues, and African-American organizations in business, education, government, and religious affairs.
Pace is a comprehensive, independent university committed to opportunity, teaching and learning, civic involvement and measurable outcomes. It has eight campuses in New York City, Westchester County, and New Windsor, New York. www.pace.edu
GLOBAL DIVERSITY ANNOUNCES BUSINESS EXCHANGE: 2004 TOUR FOR SUCCESS WITH DYNAMIC SPEAKERS LINE-UP
Columbia, MD - Global Diversity proudly announces the Business Exchange: 2004 Tour for Success, launching in New York City on April 29, 2004. It will take the tour to seven other major cities including Baltimore, Chicago, Philadelphia, Oakland, Miami, Atlanta and Washington D.C.Each cities' event is sponsored Volvo Cars of North America who promotes the success of the minority business owner by its continued involvement with the Tour. Volvo Cars has been with the Tour for Success since 2002.
"We are fortunate to have speakers that not only are very successful in their business but truly care about the minority small business owner," says Melodie Cunningham, CEO and President of Global Diversity Group, Inc.
Other national sponsors besides Volvo Cars include Citibank, Office Depot, and Foxwoods Resort Casino. The speaker's roster includes appearances by B. Smith, Johnnie Cochran, Willie Gary, Tony Brown, Spike Lee and many others.
The events begin with free interactive workshops being held all day focusing on key business issues and trends. The highlight of the day will be the guest speakers at the Luncheon leading to the evening "Economic Empowerment Networking Reception". The Tour ends with "Success Stories" featuring one of the keynote speakers.
The seminars and panel discussions begin at 9:00 AM and will focus on pertinent business matters such as: "Marketplace Trends", "The Business Plan: Roadmap to Success", "Where's the Money: ABC's for Finding Money for Start-Up Companies", "Finding More Money, More Money, And More Money!" (For Mature Businesses), "Marketing Your Way to Success", and a bonus track, "Winning at the Contract Game".
"We are excited as we begin our third year with Business Exchange: Tour for Success," said Melodie Cunningham, CEO/President of Global Diversity Group, Inc. "There is an extremely powerful line-up of speakers that will provide motivation and expertise for the small business owner."
"We are extremely proud to participate with Global Diversity Group as the title sponsor of the Tour for Success Sponsorship. Volvo cares about the development of the Minority Business Owners and we are inspired by their efforts to become a successful contributor in the diverse communities they are operating," said Dai Min Barclay, Manager of Conquest, Diversity Marketing. "Seminars such as these have proven to be an opportunity for entrepreneurs to receive additional insight from keynote speakers and the chance to network with other business owners in their community. This is why we are involved with the Tour for Success seminar because it provides that very platform to further develop their future."
"We believe that minority entrepreneurs add tremendous value to the business world, so our partnership with 'Global Diversity Group Business Exchange: Tour for Success' is a natural one," said Denise Durham Williams, Citibank National Director of Community Relations. "At Citibank, we strive to help make each community where we do business a better place. We know that this small business initiative will contribute to that goal."
Cities and dates on the 2004 Tour for Success include:
New York City, NY - April 29, 2004
Chicago, IL - June 10, 2004
Philadelphia, PA - July 13, 2004
Baltimore, MD - July 29, 2004
Atlanta, GA - August 24, 2004
Washington, D.C - September 7, 2004
Oakland, CA - October 26, 2004
Miami, FL - November 18, 2004
Registration is required and should be completed at www.mpbnetwork.com or by calling 1.888.265.6480. Both online and phone registrations accept payment for the Luncheon and the Economic Empowerment Networking Reception. Prices vary per city.
About Global Diversity Group
Headquartered in Columbia, MD, Global Diversity Group, Inc. is a unique network community that focuses on minorities interested in a "self-help" approach to starting and expanding businesses. Founded by Melodie Cunningham in January 2002, Global Diversity Group specializes in bringing together entrepreneurs, professionals and industry experts to share business concepts and to network through the utilization of various media outlets. Global Diversity Group pulled off its "Business Exchange: Tour for Success" in 2002 with Mr. Earvin "Magic" Johnson as a keynote speaker and Mr. Russell Simmons in 2003.
For more information on the "Global Diversity Group Business Exchange: 2003 Tour for Success", or to schedule an interview with any of the speakers or sponsors, please contact Global Diversity Group, Inc. at 410.730.6906.
BUSTA RHYMES EVERYTHING REMAINS RAW COMING TO DVD MAY 18, 2004
New York, NY - Eagle Rock Entertainment brings to home viewing audiences a captivating performance by one of hip-hop music's most legendary artists with, BUSTA RHYMES: EVERYTHING REMAINS RAW.Multi-platinum recording artist and Winner of the 2003 Source Award for "Best Live Performer," Busta Rhymes, performs some of his most popular hits such as "Make It Clap," and "Woo-Hah!" BUSTA RHYMES: EVERYTHING REMAINS RAW was shot in Hi-Definition and features Busta at his best, displaying both his passion for performing and his incomparable lyrical talents. The program will be available on DVD beginning May 18, 2004.
BUSTA RHYMES: EVERYTHING REMAINS RAW brings Busta's trademark raw intensity in live performances to millions of fans around the world and now, for the first time, to home viewing audiences. The DVD gives fans an ALL ACCESS PASS with special BEHIND THE SCENES footage of live on the road with the Flipmode Squad.
Directed by Devin DeHaven and Busta Rhymes himself, the DVD special features include a discography, photo gallery, a profile on the Flipmode Squad, Flipmode Garage, the Flipmode Fortress, and more. The running time is approximately 106 minutes.
He brings his trademark raw intensity in live performances to millions of fans. After a decade of performing first with his group Leaders of the New School and currently as one of rap's biggest mainstays, Busta Rhymes continues to have one of the most recognizable lyrical and delivery styles in the music world today. The tongue and cheek complex lyrics delivered in that stop and go reggae style are signatures of the Busta Rhymes songs. Featuring tracks from his well-storied career, Busta's first ever live DVD shows him at the height of his game. The DVD features live performances of "Pass the Courvosier," "Ass on Fire," "Dangerous," and more
Brooklyn born Busta Rhymes hit the rap scene at the early age of 12 and has since become one of the most distinct and recognizable voices in the hip-hop world. Busta's incredibly complex lyrics and his reggae-inspired style, have catapulted him to the top of the Billboard charts. With his recently released 6th solo album, Ain't Safe No More, Busta Rhymes continues to dominate the hip-hop world with his individual sound and undeniable lyrical skills.
Eagle Rock Entertainment develops, acquires and produces music programming for a wide range of notable and high profile artists, which the company distributes on a worldwide basis. Eagle Rock Entertainment, Eagle Vision and Eagle Eye Media are wholly owned divisions of Eagle Rock Group, LTD.
Black Wealth Expert Available for Interviews
David Hinson, Wealth Building ExpertDavid Hinson is the founder of Wealth Management Network, Inc. and has over 17 years of experience in the investment management and wealth management industries.
David received an MBA in Finance from the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School, a certificate in International Business with honors from the Stockholm School of Economics Stockholm, Sweden, and a BBA in Insurance/Finance Cum Laude From Howard University.
He is available for newspaper/radio/television interviews to discuss:
Economic Sectors - The U.S. Economy and the domestic and global factors that influence it; gold, oil, technology.
People In The News - Tyco/Martha Stewart etc.
Stock Sectors - What sectors have the greatest promise in the future.
Asset Allocation - Key investment sectors that you should be exposed to.
Wealth Creation - How to create wealth in these times. How to achieve financial independence.
Retirement - What is the truth about retirement? What do you have to do to prepare?
Small Businesses - Highlight small business sectors.
Taxes - What are the best small business tax breaks that you should be taking advantage of? What tax incentives the government should to increase jobs through small businesses - the job engine in America
Risk Control - What are the standard risks in life and how do you control them?
Politics and Business - Relative to immigration or other factors that have an economic influence
Minority Business Highlight - With the largest population growth coming in the Hispanic and Black communities, why not focus on new and interesting investment opportunities in these communities.
Financial Planning - How to plan for the future. Understanding the difference between money and wealth. How to select an advisor. Planning for all ages.
If any of these subjects are of interest to your audience, contact David Hinson at 646-375-2388 or 646-375-2177 or dhinson@wmnllc.com
African American Gamer Site Grows Rapidly.
Columbia, MD - In just six short months since its launch in late 2003, traffic on AAgamer.com has climbed to an average of more than 50,000 visits, and 200,000 page views. More than half of the visits are repeat visitors."We're thrilled to see that the site is taking off," said Roderick Woodruff, VP of marketing and co-founder of AAGamer. "But it's not all that surprising given the huge popularity of video games among African Americans. About 60 percent of our visitors say they buy one to five video or PC games every three months and 15 percent buy more than 10 games in a three-month period. That's a lot of games."
Statistics bear him out. Recent data from Forrester Research show that blacks are more likely than whites to be hardcore video gamers. Action-adventure, fighting, and traditional sports games are particularly popular among blacks. And data from the Pew Internet & American Life Project showed that blacks are 45 percent more likely than whites to have played a game on the Web.
"The mini-games on our site are extremely popular," said Woodruff. "We're planning to expand the number of AAGamer mini-games available on the site to include games with an ethnic theme and the ability for players to compare their scores. We also plan to offer shopping on the site, since blacks are big online buyers of video games and other products that we think will do well among our visitors."
According to Forrester Research, blacks are more likely than other Web buyers to purchase a number of items online including video games (12% more likely), phone, cellular and Web service (28%), consumer electronics (6%), music (9%), videos and DVDs (9%), clothing accessories (30%), footwear (34%) and jewelry and luxury items (37%).
Woodruff and his spouse, New York Times best-selling author Connie Briscoe Woodruff, are the founders of AAGamer. "The feature articles and game reviews are also getting a lot of hits, and we attribute that to the A-list group of writers we've recruited," said Briscoe Woodruff, who edits the articles and reviews. "People know quality reporting when they see it."
Rod Woodruff adds: "We may be starting out small in that we don't have a zillion dollar budget but we think we've got a hit on our hands with AAGamer. And we've got big plans for the future."
Writers who contribute to AAGamer include George Jones, former editor-in-chief of Computer Gaming World; Damon Brown, who has written for The Source, IGN, Gamasutra, MSN.com and other media; Kayode James, content manager for the Gamer's Association of Trinidad and Tobago; and Marvin Greene, a recent addition whose work has appeared in U.S. Black Engineer and Information Technology and the Black Collegian.
Contact:
Roderick Woodruff
443-367-0023
press@aagamer.com
www.aagamer.com
