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Success Is Not a Destiny it is a Journey!

This is the journey:1) positive attitude2) preparation3) have goals4) be genuine5) stay innovative6) listen7) stay current8) vision9) passion10) time management11) have faith12) dream big13) determination14) believe15) drive16) stay current17) prudence18) have humility19) take risks20) strong networkRemember it is all about you. Sell yourself, improve yourself, and motivate yourself! That's that...
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No more Burp Cloths!

I have taken up sewing in an effort to tap into a seemingly endless market of baby accessories and necessities, but more importantly to have more control over what goes into our existing product line. I can now make a better variety of cakes and cupcakes as well as add better quality products inside the "baked goods". Gift the Bambino can offer a stronger product line with my new talent! (Check out the cool cake pictured here)!

I have a major problem with the name “burp cloth” there is nothing cute, fun or enticing about the word “burp” so instead, I will call my cloths BambinoCloths. They will come in a variety of sizes including washcloth, mini-facecloth, traditional burp cloth size, etc. In cool modern color schemes. Pictured are some of my first BambinoCloths, a washcloth size orange on stripe beauty and a couple of polkadotted cuties.

http://custombabycakes.blogspot.com/2009/03/bambinocloths.htmlwww.giftthebambino.comCake seen here will be sold in select stores only...order a different cool cake on our site or Etsy shop.
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Change Cannot Occur Without Your Cooperation

Change, while good, is not always an easy transition. Many of us want change but have a hard time making the necessary adjustments to make it possible.Think about the caterpillar before its transition into a butterfly. It goes through a rigorous transformation called metamorphosis. During its larval stage it crawls on the ground to nourish on plant life until its pupa stage. When the larva is fully-grown, it stops feeding and begins drifting in quest for a suitable pupation site. Once it has reached its final destination, which is usually the underside of a leaf, it will begin a phase that appears to be the worst time of its life.There is no doubt that we will at times will suffer under heavy setbacks. In the process, if your world has been turned upside down, and you feel like your life is hanging by a thread, remember that, God’s Word is powerful enough to keep you from falling. Let the Word of God be the only harness that holds you during your pupae stage, for God is always working out what you are growing through for your benefit.Just like the pupa, your upside down stage of life is only for a season. But you must not interfere with the process, for if you do, you risk the possibility of delaying or aborting the expected end, to spread your wings and fly.Change cannot occur without your cooperation. When your life is being broken down, it is an external forewarning that the old order is collapsing, breaking up, and waiting to be transformed into something new.Allow your pupa stage to transform you into something you have never been.Tilt your heart towards the SON!Pastor Narda GoodsonFirst Lady of Whitewright, TexasOfficial Website: http://anointedarrowsproductions.org\Social Network: http://christianwomenpredestinedbygod.ning.com/Copyright 2008 Gospel "PiLLs". All Rights Reserved
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A Tick in Time.

In one tick in time, the year has changed and with it so has your season. Just as there are seasons in the natural, there are seasons in the spirit. It is time to get out there and make your dreams a reality. You can experience the best in life if you believe in yourself. Having shared that, here is my request for you:Have a Blessed and Prosperous New Year. Make this year for YOU the year you DO all that you didn't before; accomplish all you've always wanted to. Get something different by doing something different!!!! Move out of your comfort zone and make your dreams come true. When you believe in yourself, you exude confidence and success is DRAWN TO YOU!"Live like you're blessed, give like you're blessed and ultimately you will be blessed". ~Debra P. DeclouetLove to you all and God Bless,~Lady D.P. DeclouetDebra P. DeClouetWomen of Destiny, LLC"Purpose-Minded to Promise". TMDebra@p-mtp.comhttp://www.p-mtp.com/
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How to live the incredible life

We all have our New Years Resolutions all together, but the question is do we always stick to them. If you are tired of not keeping your resolutions then why not check this out and learn how to be a better you. I watch this show all the time and it has really helped me this year. may God bless all of you this year and I pray that you make all the divine connections that this wonderful network provides. www.gospelondemand.tv/renee
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Reflections of 2008

2008 was quite a year - a year that has had it shares of joy and pain. What makes this year any different than the other years?Well, I began the New Year in church with my family and made a list of things that I needed to accomplish in 2008. Each day had its own unique feature whether it was a moment of triumph to be followed shortly by a challenge that seemed determined to cause some distress. It was on – never a dull moment.Family moments were rather emotional from celebrating birthdays, anxiously awaiting medical test results, graduation, traveling, attending various seminars, symposiums, signed on to participate in Cancer Prevention Study/CPS-3 (20years)and many other activities.Determined to expand on making a difference in the lives of others, I began hosting the Health & Wellness Show which airs each Saturday morning on Blog Talk Radio. The show has featured many wonderful guests from Health Care Professionals, Authors, Presidents of Health Care Organizations, Media Personalities - all sharing great information with the listeners.In addition to hosting the Health & Wellness Show, I signed on to myspace ( a place I viewed as a ridiculous site where my children would log on and stare at the screen for hours, posting their pictures, finding friends they have not seen in years and meeting new people (yikes!). I hesitated to join the site as I just could not see it being beneficial for my line of work. After all, who wants to talk about health on a social site? I was encouraged to sign on as a method of reaching more potential listeners.Well, not long after I signed on to myspace, I was all involved with posting photos, catching up with friends (who knew?), posting blog and just when I finally had the hang of it, I was told to join Facebook. Needless to say, I joined Facebook. Next up - twitter. I signed on to twitter and sat there for a while unsure of what I was doing there. As a matter of fact, I noticed the messages in my email that people were following me so I decided to follow them and that's when I saw what it was all about. So I began to Twit along - giving updates on my daily activities.By the latter part of 2008, I began to work on a CD 'The Day that Changed My Life' a CD that is made for newly diagnosed cancer patients. It is an amazing CD that will serve as a guide - taking the patient and their support system through the various stages - the highs and the lows - the treatment phases and many other great features.So many great ideas came to my mind and I had to jot them down to add to my list of things to do. My list grows daily and is revised often. What makes this year different from any other year is the productive year that is still a work in progress. The year will end in a few days and my list of things that needed to be accomplished in 2008 is incomplete. I take joy in many of the accomplishments that I have achieved as I never imagined that I would have hosted a weekly Health & Wellness Show;create and actively post on the Health & Wellness Blog;work on CD; network with effective results; develop and designed a logo for the business and have a line of apparel and accessories with proceeds to benefit the children with terminal diseases of the underserved communities; increased requests to speak at health related events, etc. I could go on and on with the accomplishments that were made - yet they were not even on the To Do list of 2008.I say goodbye almost reluctantly to 2008 as I wish I could go back and make some changes. We lost my father in-law, my buddy to Multiple Myeloma a form of cancer that did not give us much time to share with each other. It was an outstanding blow that knocked the wind out of us.I look forward to 2009 as I prepare to make my list again - with every intention of working actively on the items. The best part is knowing that I can still work on the things that I have on the 2008 list. I can only imagine what awaits me in 2009.
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Note to Self - "09 Is Mine"

Out with the old and in with the new, a long lived tradition of many people across theworld. Every New Year many people start off with a resolution but even fewer gothrough with it. For some, the pressure of simply saying it gives them a feeling of dread.Why do that to yourself? Why not give yourself permission to succeed? So instead of along list of to-do’s, simply write yourself a note.You don’t have to start off with many notes. In fact give yourself permission to only havetwo or three notes at first. As you accomplish them, give yourself a new note. Make sureyou select the best stationary that you can afford at the time. As you grow, yourstationary may also reflect your growth.Sit down in a quite place and really think about what it is that you wish to accomplish. Besure to write down these important facts in the note:1. What to you wish to accomplish2. Why do you want to do this3. When is the accomplishment date4. Who will benefit from its completion5. Where will you be when it is doneEverything we do in life has a plan. Not doing anything with your life at all – that, is yourplan. If you are making $250,000 a year – that is your plan. No matter the day or time, besure that you are following a plan. So instead of making grand statements of what youwill do this year, start off with an achievable approach first. No more resolutions andlofty promises. Simply write a note to yourself. When you change your outlook andperception on life the things around you will reflect your positive affirmation and mentalattitude. You will change not only yourself but those around you.The way in which you go about life determines what you receive. Instead of saying, “Iwant to lose 20 pounds” without having a plan other than the phrase, “I will go on a diet”your success rate will be low. But stating that you will change your lifestyle by eatinghealthy foods and exercising by a certain date, you will get there. Maybe you wish tohave a make over. Select fashion that is appropriate for your body shape, age and place inlife. If you are striving to be an executive this year, dress the part. If you have a morelabor intensive job, get a more modern and fresh haircut.When you decide to act on a note to self, jot down the date you start, goal date andaccomplishment date in the corner as a visual. As you achieve each one, don’t throw itaway. Instead, keep it until the end of the year. From time to time, take a moment to lookat your notes and at all that you have accomplished. Being able to visualize youraccomplishments may be hard for some, so when you are able to look at your notes in aphysical form, you are now able to see what success looks like. When you are able to seewhat success looks like, you are able to see it more clearly each time you strive for the next goal.Be sure to reward yourself for each note completed. One way you can do this is to get acharm bracelet. Select a charm to add to the bracelet each time you are successful. Orderflowers for yourself and have them delivered to your job with a note that says I’m proudof you. This is another positive reaffirmation of your accomplishments.Your brain is your body’s computer. Inputting data is vital. The better the data, the betteryour reports and statistics will be. If you are putting in junk and visiting the wrongwebsite, don’t be surprised when you get a virus. Being around like-minded people isalso very important. If you have an issue with eating the proper foods, being aroundpeople who only eat junk food will not help you. Spending time with your friends wholove to eat fresh fruits and veggies, will give you a jump start on your note to self, eachtime. They will share with you bits of wisdom that they have gathered along the path ofhealthy eating, thus, changing your life, by touching those around them. There’s two oldexpression that come to mind – when you lay down with dogs you get flees and birds ofa feather flock together. Well, the same holds true in day-to-day life. Having a mentorand being around those that you wish to learn from is always a sign of a person whowishes to succeed.So as 2009 begins, begin your life on a positive note. Write down all the things that youare thankful for. You may be surprised at what you have accomplished already.
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Wow - The End of Another Year . . .

And another new beginning. I'm not sure, but this may be the happiest time of my life (I say that every year and it's always true). I love what I do and I love the people who have come into my life because of it - you! It's been an interesting year and I look forward to another one. Like many of you, I've had my personal woes with illness, work, money and family, but it all just makes me appreciate my life all the more. gohan%5B1%5D.JPGBesides, now I wonder how to write about everything that happens to me now. I'm still trying to find the humor in my visit to the emergency room not long after the BAS Holiday Book Fair - my Japanese Akita hit me in the face with his HUGE head and I thought I would loose my entire front grill! And not a dent in his big head!!!! Hmmm . . . gotta love 'em - I've been hopped up on Tylenol with Codeine ever since. No worries though - after 3 x-rays no fractures were found. So what I have to eat mush for the next month? It'll help me lose weight! I'm just grateful I get to keep my crooked front teeth another year. It's amazing what the prospect of an African American president can do for the psyche. This may be the most difficult financial time since the 30's, but it's even more difficult NOT to see the exciting promise of tomorrow. This is the best time ever to start something new - a business, a book, education - now is the time to be open to new opportunities. Speaking of gratitude, I'd like to give a shout out to some of those online literary providers that have started and kept this business humming. Big ups to Tee C. Royal of Raw Sistas for an outstanding online literary conference - great job! Question to Sylvia Hubbard and Yasmin Coleman - how do you keep up the pace? You two are phenomenal and we owe so much to you - thanks for your hard work and ethics. Thank you to our many members who have linked from their sites and blogs and those that have written informative articles to share with the membership. Next year we will make it easier to navigate to your content and will create additional help features.
This morning 'The Cushite' (Vince of The First World Books & Specialty Shop) sent Kwanzaa greetings to many of us on this site reminding us of the meaning of the holiday. My favorite has always been Nia - Purpose, but I noticed today that the seven principles illustrate well what this website (BAS) is striving to achieve within the literary landscape.
How The Black Author Showcase Encompasses the Seven Principles:
  • We wish to promote unity among multicultural lovers of literature, writers and readers - anyone that brings a book to life.
  • We support the self-determination that is needed to create a personal work of art. To define ourselves and not be defined by others is all that we ask.
  • This literary community is an example of the beauty of collective work and responsibility. Do your best, give your best, and live up to your word. You are building your legacy.
  • Buying books and services from people that look like you is the cooperative economic concept that has helped every successful immigrant (Korean, Italian, Jewish - they all buy from "their own" first and others second) in America. It has taken us way too long to accomplish this, however it is never too late.
  • Our purpose has been the building and developing of this growing community to help others create better books, get the information needed to do so and to connect with others that can assist in the journey. When our brothers and sisters do well, we at the top of the world.
  • The creativity that has come forth and is exhibited amongst our membership has been overwhelming. We learn something from every new member interview or poetry show. We are just happy to be able to say "I knew them when . . ." because there are many simmering stars in this community.
  • We will always believe that we can achieve greatness by helping each other. We have faith in the real hearts of our people . . . the "crabs in the barrel" attitude cannot last forever. There is more than enough money and success to go around to everyone in the literary field. Competition is a good thing, it keeps you fresh. Never forget that our faith in you will never diminish.
  • Happy Holidays from all of us at the Black Author Showcase!

Theblackcandleart.jpgVisit the website The Black Candle to learn more about the new documentary by MK Asante, narrated by Maya Angelou and please don't forget to visit the original/official site .
The Seven Principles of Kwanzaa: Umoja (Unity): To strive for and maintain unity in the family, community, nation and race. Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) To define ourselves, name ourselves, create for ourselves and speak for ourselves. Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility) To build and maintain our community together and make our brother's and sister's problems our problems and to solve them together. Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics)To build and maintain our own stores, shops and other businesses and to profit from them together. Nia (Purpose) To make our collective vocation the building and developing of our community in order to restore our people to their traditional greatness. Kuumba (Creativity) To do always as much as we can, in the way we can, in order to leave our community more beautiful and beneficial than we inherited it. Imani (Faith) To believe with all our heart in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders and the righteousness and victory of our struggle.
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Happy Holidays!!!

I'm of the opinion that every day that we live, move and breathe is a day worthy and an opportunity afforded us to Glorify God and edify man.I believe the spirit of Christmas lives EVERYDAY; but, as my Pastor (Dr. John E. Montgomery, II) said today; Christmas represents the beginning of our blessings, for our SAVIOR'S arrival brought us redemption and reconciliation with God. I've shared that to say this: As we celebrate the Christmas Holiday and this Glorious New Year filled, might I add, with NEW POSSIBILITIES, let us remember the true reason for the season. JESUS, the Christ, was born. We have been redeemed and set free, so let us walk in our liberty this season and every.I love you and pray for you to experience ~ love, joy, peace, laughter and today I'll add another - TRUTH. I pray you TRUTH in all things, Christ is the way, the TRUTH and the life; so, I pray you Christ in all things.Be who you were created, designed and purposed to be - Whole! Be what He came that you may be - Free! Live as He says you might - Abundantly! (remember: the choice is yours)Wishing you the most Glorious Holiday Season, from my heart to yours.Love and Blessings Multiplied,Debra P. DeclouetWomen of Destiny, LLCPurpose-Minded to Promise. TMhttp://www.p-mtp.com
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Reserve your spot at one of New York's most Exclusive Celebrity hosted New Year's Eve Parties with 1CCU.For over 20 VIP Red Carpet Party Events through out the Metro NY areaClick below to reserve your spot...Tickets are almost sold out:http://www.1ccuevents.com/events/new-years-eve
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VIP ALL INCLUSIVE PACKAGE ENTRANCE FROM “E” ST. VIP RED CARPET VALET PARKING RED CARPET ENTRANCE WITH PICTURES RED CARPET VIDEO INTERVIEW FOR “LYFESTYLES” INTERNET TV ALL YOU CAN DRINK (@ promoters discretion) “LYFESTYLES” HOSTESSES /HOSTS ALL YOU CAN EAT ( 8-10PM) RED CARPET GIFTBAGS ONSITE CIGAR ROLLER 2 PRIVATE VIP LOUNGING AREAS PRIVATE “COOKIES & CREAM” EXOTIC DANCERS FOR MEN (after 12:00 am) PRIVATE “IT’S ALL BUTTA” EXOTIC DANCERS FOR THE WOMEN (after 12:00 am)
HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS AVAILABELIMOUSINE, BENTLEY, SHUTTLE BUS, TAXI AVAILABLEAIR TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS AVAILABLEBABYSITTING AVAILABLE
ADVERTISEMENT OPPORTUNITIES:VENDOR TABLE, BIG SCREENS ADS, REDCARPET GIFTBAGS, FULL PAGE AD IN ULM DISTRIBUTED AT EVENTS, LOGOS ON "LYFESTYLES" RADIO, FEATURE AT LOCATION SHOT BY "LYFESTYLES" TV VIDEOCREW & MORE!!!


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HAVING AN EVENT? PROMOTE YOUR EVENT, CREATE TICKETS & MORE..CLICK HERE!
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The Pink Locket Fashion Week Picks

Since this week is Mercedes Benz NY Fashion Week, here at The Pink Locket we have interrupted our regularly scheduled blogging to give you our selection on what we think is hot in Spring 2009 fashion. We hope you enjoy our picks.Designer, Tracy Reese unveiled her Spring 2009 line on Sunday, September 7th. The accessory that really caught the eye was this wrap around gold chain necklace. It looks so versatile and can be worn with almost any outfit. Not to mention it looks absolutely great against the color orange. The dangle metal pieces on the end also make a great accent on the necklace, giving that extra detail. This is definitely a worthwhile investment.By: Kamilah C.The Pink Lockethttp://thepinklocket.com
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Finding New Business Clients

Are you having trouble finding new clients for your business or service? Take a look at my tips for finding new clients HERE.CeeCee Woolard
Dry Skin? Eczema? Try our Megamix Whip!
new signups receive $3.00. Use code HAPPY2006
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Are you a sistapreneur, entrepreneur, mompreneur?
Of course you are! Check out my new site:womenpreneurs.info

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The Akua Magazine - August Issue Newsletter

No.37/ 20 Aug 2008Good Early Morning,Check out our new issue:In The Writer's Corner - Mrs. Keisha Brown;Chatting with Shanise B. - On Location at Ocean City. MD;In The Kitchen - Summer Pantry Party;Plus Size / Full Figured Model of the Month;Chatting with Shanise B. - The State of Me in World will start it's 'Healing Our Family' Series.;Memorial Tribute to Personalities Lost the Month of AugustNew articles in the News section;and much more.The Akua Lounge Podcast Channel with be Showcasing Archive Editions of Chatting with Shanise B. on it's ITunes podcast. Now that Chatting with Shanise B. is on Blog Talk Radio, will no longer have it's ITunes location. We broadcast all archive shows on The Akua Lounge Podcast Channel. To subscribe, visit http://akuamagazine.net.Starting Monday, we will have a sale on our Organic and Recycled Plain Apparrel and Totes in The Akua Shops. The Akua Shops serves as the sole source of financial support to the Akua Projects. Presently, we have novelty items available.Would you like to show your support of the Akua Projects, then carry one of our news widget engines.A web widget is a portable chunk of code that can be installed and executed within any separate HTML-based web page by an end user without requiring additional compilation. They are derived from the idea of code reuse. Other terms used to describe web widgets include: gadget, badge, module, capsule, snippet, mini and flake. Web widgets often but not always use DHTML, JavaScript, or Adobe Flash.You can obtain one or all, by clicking here. Anyone can submit there press release or media alert, please pass this on.We are looking for contributors to the magazine. So if you are a commentator, photographer, etc...I am looking for you. Contributors to the Akua Magazine submissions must be significate to African Women's Diaspora. This means women around the world of African/Black decent. There are examples of the types of contributions acceptable in the News section. We are also looking for contribution to our business journal at Designs By ASH Ezine.The Akua Magazine Mobile is still up and running. This allows you to get special updates via your cell phone or pda. You can also sign in, to leave your comments.Have a great day and remember...'Do It B.I.G., Beautifully, Intelligently & Generously!'
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LETS PLAY THE NAME GAME

How in the world do people come up with clever and catchy business names? For months now I have been trying to come up with a name for my new business. Next to doing my business plan (which I am still working on) this has got to be one of the most frustrating things to do. Well for me anyway. I thought this would be the easiest part of it all. But who was I kidding.I have tried different variations of things. I tried using my name (which just may be my best option) but it is not original enough, nor is it that catchy. I tried to think of some sort of catchy name that has to do with events and entertainment but everything that I can think of, is already being used. ; Anything that is worth using, anyway. And if it is not already being used, it has too many words and syllables in it. No one wants to say a mouthful just to say a business’s name. I tried to get some advice from friends and family members but they don’t take my business seriously enough to give me a name worth a second thought. What is a girl to do?I really can’t make any steps forward with out finalizing my name first. I cannot get incorporated. I can’t do a logo or a slogan. I can’t make flyers or build a website. I can’t build advertising banners or anything that needs to be done to make my business successful. I will not even be able to do something as simple as get business cards.Now I started using the name Black Dress Entertainment. The first time I said the name, immediately I thought of a funeral engagement. Other than that initial thought, I really do like the name. It has a classy feel to it but I am not sure if it is what I really want. When I Google the name I get a million responses. It’s only when I put quotation marks around it like “black dress entertainment” I get about 30 responses back. Which is good, right? Honestly this is the name that I am leaning towards but I want to be sure. I need to make sure of it before I have all my business cards and logo designed and decide not to use it again. That would be killer.I also looked at calling the company Word of Mouth Events, but that name or saying is in everyone’s mouth and they wouldn’t only be talking about my company. They would be talking about any and everything worth talking about. And that Google search brings up even more responses. HOLY COW! I want my name to stand out and only get about maybe 150 responses (still a lot but a whole lot better than a million).I just don’t know what to do. I want a name that when you hear it, you know exactly what we are about. But I also don’t want it to be to long or complicated where people get frustrated just saying it or try to make up their own acronyms for it. I want something that is happy and brings thoughts of joy and excitement to every ones minds. Not something that is dark and gloomy and may have you thinking about anything else but happy times. I look at all the businesses on my favorite sites, BBWO (black business women online) and SUN (start up nation), and just about everyone has a catchy business name that suites their company. The only ones that don’t are the ones named after the business owners.Everyone keeps saying just relax and let the name come to you. It has been months now and it hasn’t come to me yet. How long am I to wait for a name to come to me? Seven months, 12 months, 2 years, who knows? And what if it comes to me in a dream? Being that I am not the kind of person who remembers any of my dreams, that wouldn’t help me at all either.I am being patient though and considering all my options so that I can have the best possible name. Hopefully it will not be before long that I would have a company name…HOPEFULLY. Keep your fingers crossed!!!!Any suggestions?
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"Once Again It's On!"

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Back by Popular Demand, The inspirational stage play "A Piece of Me" comes back to Harlem for the third time this summer!

"A Piece of Me" by Jermaine Smith has been nominated for FOUR 2008 "Tiffany Gospel Awards".Thank you to ALL who supported this talented young man and his production team. CONGRATS & KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK.

If you've missed it, here is another opportunity to see what the buzz is all about
PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD EVEN IF YOU'RE NOT IN NY OR NJ.

Harlem:Saturday, August 2, 2008Oberia D. Dempsey Theatre127 W. 127th Street (btw Adam Clayton Powell & Lenox Ave)New York, NY 10027Doors open at 5PM, Showtime at 6PM$15 in advance$20 at the door
New Jersey:Saturday, August 16, 2008"Tony Award Winning" Crossroads Theatre7 Livingston Avenue
New Brunswick, NJ 08901Doors open at 6PM, Showtime at 7PM$20 in advance$25 at the door.
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I have always like Norweign's Cruise Line and with their new ships, the love affair will continue. Enjoy!Chic, upscale and one-of-a-kind experiences inspired by the nightlife capitals of the world - South Beach, Ibiza, the Riviera, and, of course, Vegas

Miami - Jun 17, 2008 ---Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has revealed its vision for the future of nighttime experiences at sea designed specifically for its two next generation of Freestyle Cruising ships, F3, set to debut in 2010. From Riviera chic and Ibiza style to Miami trendy and Vegas flair, the nightclubs on NCL's new F3 ships will create never-before-seen experiences at sea and feature multiple uses for day or night, along with exclusive, adult-only venues.Five of the ships' distinct hotspots were revealed at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas at the hotel's private Venus Pool to press, NCL's Partnership 2.0 Advisory Board, local travel partners and consumers flown in for the event. The five venues include the industry's first true Ice Bar; POSH Beach Club, a first of its kind beach club at sea that offers an exclusive, adults-only setting at the top of the ship; Halo, the Ü ber Bar, a private bar and lounge in the ship-within-a-ship villa complex; Bliss Ultra Lounge, NCL's all-day entertainment and nightclub complex with four-lane bowling alley; and Spice H20, an adults-only aft pool deck experience. With these signature outlets, NCL's nightclub experience will rival even Vegas' energy and passion for nightlife."There is nothing ordinary about these ships. The F3's are unconventionally extraordinary," said Colin Veitch, NCL's president and CEO. "Every experience on board will be unique and like no other. F3 won't have massive void spaces and rooms only used for one thing. What's particularly unique about these spaces is they will have multiple uses - sunning, bowling, dining and, of course, party playgrounds. But this is just the beginning. We have a lot more to reveal in the upcoming months so stay tuned."

NCL's Ice Bar - chill out and chat up. Inspired by the original ice bars and ice hotels in Scandinavia and one of only 14 ice bars in the world, the cruise industry's first true ice bar is the ultimate chill. This frozen chamber of iced vodka is set in changing hues of blue, green and purple LED lighting that simulates the Northern Lights and creates a distinctive arctic atmosphere. The centerpiece is a giant ice cube that glows and changes colors as the hottest techno beats add to the energy of this unique nightlife attraction. In addition, NCL's Ice Bar features a bar, walls, tables, stools, glasses and life-size sculptures all made from ice. Located on deck seven, Ice Bar will accommodate 25 guests who will be given fur coats, gloves and hats to keep them warm, since the room's temperature will not rise above 17 degrees Fahrenheit - creating the ultimate chill. To enter, guests will pay a cover charge with a drink or drinks included.POSH Beach Club - the best nightlife day or night. Adult guests who purchase a POSH pass for the day or the week will take a private glass elevator to enter this luxurious and exclusive outdoor entertainment complex styled with Mediterranean flare and combined with the sizzle of South Beach and the Riviera. During the day, guests can lounge on white-cushioned day beds and in private cabanas in a sun-kissed setting and cool off in the 35-foot long cascading waterfall while the POSH VIP Host and crew cater to every whim. At night, things heat up as POSH Beach Club becomes an open air night club, complete with VIP bottle service, while the DJ sets the vibe for the non-stop party. Four POSH experiences a day are delivered:Early Morning (6 to 9 am) - POSH ViveGuests awake to yoga classes and body-and-soul treatments in private cabanas as the sun rises and the day starts anew.Morning (9 to Noon am) - POSH RehabGuests can relax and recover from a night out with Salty Dogs, Bloody Mary's, and mimosas combined with chill out tunes.Afternoon (Noon to 6 pm) - POSH SolThe best nightlife in the daytime with guests lounging on day beds, enjoying funky beach music and spiked POSH snow cones while chilling under a lit waterfall.Evening (8 pm to whenever) - Pure POSHA pure, sizzling, sexy, nightlife experience where guests enjoy sparkling drinks and bottle service served on silver trays. Look out Vegas, the vibe here is hot... guests can dance all night under the stars or lounge on a POSH bed... truly Riviera style.Halo, the Über Bar - heavenly and very exclusive. Garden and Courtyard villa guests have exclusive VIP access to this Über Bar located at the top of the ship on the private deck 16. This Über Bar showcases the best of the best, from the best liquors around the world to the best art featured and available for purchase with jewelry-clad servers displaying the best jewelry onboard for purchase. LED screens, framed like masterpieces and placed strategically around the room, set the mood with video montages showing the best artwork, music videos, films, iconic images of celebrities, places, fashion and more. Private gaming tables, including baccarat and blackjack, add to the sexy style in this adult-only club.Bliss Ultra Lounge and Nightclub - back by popular demand. NCL takes its popular Bliss Ultra Lounge and Nightclub, featured on Norwegian Gem and Norwegian Pearl, to the F3 ships. Bliss features NCL's signature bowling alley at sea as part of this all-day entertainment and nightclub complex with the feel of a decadent Las Vegas nightclub. Located on deck seven, this hotspot is perfect for all-day bowling, dancing or just hanging out. In the evening, Bliss transforms into a hip, high-energy ultra lounge with plasma screens displaying music videos, shadow dancers entertaining the crowd and non-stop music. A dance floor, private VIP areas and mood-lit bowling complete this totally unique seagoing experience. Bliss features NCL's popular White Hot Night, the ultimate dance party set in a wonderland of white. Guests are encouraged to wear white to the party and they can purchase specially designed "white hot" shirts and feather boas. Bliss on the F3 ships feature the addition of gaming tables with dealers.Spice H20 - what an aft-pool never dared to be. Infused with Latin and Asian influences, colors and vibes, this adults-only complex located at the back of the ship on decks 15 and 16 features a huge LED screen displaying vibrant video images from charging bulls to flamenco dancers, and synchronized swimmers to tap dancing Geishas all combined with dynamic music to create a truly unique and sensory experience. During the day, guests can soak up the sun in lounge beds around the pool while enjoying chill-out Asian tunes and Asian-inspired cuisine in Chinese to-go containers. As the sun sets, Spice H20 is transformed to an Ibiza-inspired beach club with live entertainment and dinner served tableside or directly on beds. At night, the mood is red-hot with Latin mash-up vibes, dancing and unique entertainment atop the covered pool.Spice H20 will serve up four spicy vibes per day:Morning (8 to 11 am) - Sunny SpiceSpicy Bloody Mary's and Spicitinis combine with breakfast and relaxing tunes.Afternoon (11 am to 4 pm) - Aqua SpiceGuests enjoy the energy of the in-crowd as they sun the day away with Asian margaritas, bottle service and beers from around the world. Asian-inspired food is served in Chinese to-go containers.Late afternoon/early evening (4 to 9 pm) - Sunset SpiceA perfect sunset every day - either live or via the big screen. Live entertainment, flowing champagne and an eclectic menu that isn't available anywhere else on the ship. As the sun sets, it becomes a more intimate environment with Spanish guitars and red-hot dancers setting the vibe.Evening (9 pm to whenever) - All SpiceThe entertainment is non-stop throughout the evening in this outdoor amphitheater. A visually captivating aerial ballet video comes to life as the pool floor rises and aerial performers mix dance moves with acrobatic choreography inside a metallic sphere to create a mesmerizing experience. Then guests can dance the night away on the covered pool. Guests will be able to purchase a Beyond the Velvet Rope package to gain access to the exclusive clubs.NCL's F3 ships will incorporate a world of new features. They represent the company's third generation of Freestyle Cruising ships; a further evolution of NCL's progressive dismantling of the structure, regimentation, and constraints of the traditional cruise experience. The 150,000-ton ships will each total 4,200 passenger berths, representing the largest ships in NCL's fleet.NCL Corporation Ltd. is the holding company for various subsidiary companies involved in owning and operating the ships of Norwegian Cruise Line. NCL today has the youngest fleet in the industry, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy the flexibility of Freestyle Cruising on the newest, most contemporary ships at sea, and has recently added its latest new ship, the 2,400 passenger Norwegian Gem.
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As entrepreneurs we all know that balancing your day job with your new startup is never easy. Sitting and waiting for the day that one can fire their employer to pursue their business fulltime is an entrepreneur’s dream. There are days I come home from work just exhausted and tired, but I push myself to go work on a new jewelry design or create that new marketing campaign for an upcoming jewelry line.I was talking to one of my childhood friends the other day, who happens to be a new author, and we discussed trying “find time” to complete tasks for our businesses after coming from a long day at work. I told her my motivation is that I am so focused that I try to find the time everyday to do something for The Pink Locket, even if it means going to sleep past midnight. Everyday when I get up and go to my 9 to 5, it’s a reminder that I need to stay focused because I made the decision that this venture is going to work for me, not that I “hope” it works, but it’s “going” to work.We’ve all heard the saying “Birds of a feather flock together.” I believe that this is especially true when starting up your business that by keeping other successful and determined entrepreneurs in your circle will help you to achieve the objectives and goals of your very own business. I was once told people need to have 3 sets of friends, your regular circle of friends, your work friends and friends who are more successful than you. With that being said I’m definitely working on the later.
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What is Business Credit Cards?

Financial is one of the important parts of the business. Whether it is a start-up business or an established business, business credit cards can be an aid in building business credit. As your business grows, you will need a helping hand to manage your business expenses and income. Using a business credit card separates your personal accounts from your business accounts. Most importantly, using business credit cards is the quickest and easiest way to obtain credit.Why Business Credit Cards?Here are some of the benefits why you should apply for a business credit card.Interest-free credit. Using business credit cards, your business can take advantage of interest-free credit for a limited period.Separation of expenses. For business, handling expenses is a difficult task. For example, how many times you've had to pay for a business dinner on your personal credit card if you need evidence of that.Expense managed report. With this, it allows you to get periodic reports of any section your business expenses. In this case, your accounting department no longer has to manually account for all your business expenses as the card comes with itemized monthly statements.Staff cardholders. Your staff can have each business credit card, so that they can meet their business expenses without having to pay for them personally.Online payments. You can pay quickly and easily all your business expenses online. In this way, it helps save your accounting team plenty of time and effort.Insurance. With the use of credit cards for business to pay for any business travel expenses of your staff members, they should not only get free travel insurance but also any other travel benefits that are associated with the card. In this way, it saves your business the expense of having to pay for the insurance separately.Higher credit line. Some credit card companies are willing to give business credit cardholders a higher level of credit than individuals. This should mean that your business never needs worry about how to pay for entertainment, stationary or travel expenses again.Rewards. Avail rewards packages with the use of your business credit card e.g. air miles, cash back, etc.Hotels. As a member of a business card program you may find that the card issuer has a special relationship with a hotel that gives you preferential bookings at hotels close to where you need to be - so no more long travel journeys from hotels to meetings.Billing. With small business credit cards billing, you may have an option whether to pay the entire balance each month or carryover a balance to the next statement period, as suits your business needs, much the same way individual credit cards do.
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