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Did I meet my challenge of seeing Philly on $10 per day?

Posted by Momma Cheryl on June 20, 2008 at 4:02am

The last event I attended while I was in Philadelphia was the Odunde Festival, one of the largest community- based street festivals held in the country. Odunde is a celebration, which comes from the Yoruba tradition, and celebrates the coming of the New Year. It was hot, both temperature wise and culturally. I recognized several traditional dances, which were celebratory and reflective.Now, did I meet my challenge to see Philly on $10 per day? Well…I was in Philly for 13 days and I spent $25 on public transportation. Now, I cheated a little because I used my sister’s trail pass for 2 days, which allowed unlimited travel throughout the city and the ‘burbs. However, I could have purchased my own weekly pass for $20.75.Entrance fees to museums were $17; however, if I had gone to the Philadelphia Museum on Sunday, it would have been a love donation. I spent $106.27 on food, however, $54.60 of that was for travel prepared cheese steaks and tastykakes from Superfresh (they were on sale for $1.89 per family pack with a member card, Sharon’s). My daughters texted or called me everyday to remind me to bring them! I spent another $10 on donations. So, if I looked at my daily cost over 13 days, my average cost per day is $12.40 per day, still not bad!If I delete the food that I brought home for my family then my average cost per day was $7.84. Of course, it would be hard for someone who did not know a city, or who was not public transportation savvy to be able to do as I did. I had free lodging and was taken to dinner several times and I walked a lot, partly to prove that I could walk! Walking helped my perspective and allowed me to see this beautiful city. I can help you see such a city on a budget.

Get More Exposure for Your Black Business

Posted by Rhonda Jai on June 20, 2008 at 3:11am

More and more people are searching for Black businesses online everyday. If they can’t find your Black business that means you are missing out on all of your potential clients. To help people find your business and learn more your services or products you should have a professionally designed web site with several incoming links from reputable sites that relate to yours.

Your Black business site should reflect a professional business image and contain persuasive sales copy that leads your visitors through a path of action. Do not settle for amateurish designed site with second rate graphics, even if you have an extremely small budget.

Several designers are more than happy to provide you with a high quality designed site with informative and persuasive content with out breaking your budget. If you are unable to get a custom designed site then it is ok to start your Black business site with a template. Just make sure that it is not of those plain jane templates that are common on the internet.

After you have your professionally designed site that gives vital information about your business and convinces visitors to use your services it is time to exchange links. Exchanging links with reputable sites that relate to yours is a great way to increase your exposure online. Link exchanging is also a great way to increase your search engine rankings. Finding sites that you would like to exchange links with can be time consuming and sometimes frustrating. But it is definitely worth it.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/online-business-articles/get-more-exposure-for-your-black-business-434825.html

About the Author:

Start your search for a web site template or ready made web site start with the Black Business Community Network.

Visit the Black Business Community Network and join their free Black Business Link Exchange.

If you would like more information about marketing your Black business online feel free to visit the Black Business Community Network.

Great Learning Resources for Busy Black Business Owners

Posted by Rhonda Jai on June 20, 2008 at 2:41am

Black business owners often have two very limited resources – time and money.

Because of this they often neglect putting their time and money towards business education. Without proper business education many Black businesses become stagnant and eventually cease to exist.

Thanks to the Black Business Community Network, which is dedicated to bringing Black business owners quality business resources to help them grow their business, Black business owners no longer have to neglect their education.

The Black Business Community Network now provides extremely affordable and educational eGuides. An eGuide, or electronic guide, is digital content that can be viewed on your computer using Adobe Reader. eGuides are often shorter and more concise than eBooks, making for a faster and easier read.

What’s Great about eGuides?

· eGuides are packed full of information – by the time you have finished reading you have vital information you can apply directly to your business.

· Each eGuide covers specific topics so you will not be overwhelmed with unnecessary information.

· You will learn the best practice techniques that have been tested and proven to work – thus saving you time and money.

· You are shown step by step how to apply proven techniques using illustrative pictures and detailed action steps.

· eGuides are short reads – they get straight to the point so you can quickly learn information you need.

· Easy reads - They use everyday language and provide you with definitions for technical terms and concepts to make sure you have a complete understanding of the topic being covered.

· They are provided in digital content so you can conveniently download them using your computer – you don’t have to wait for them to ship.

If you are a busy Black business owner, who understands the importance of business education, then visit www.thebbcnetwork.com/eguides.html to learn more about Black Business eGuides.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/online-business-articles/great-learning-resources-for-busy-black-business-owners-453589.html

About the Author:

The Black Business Community Network is a network of Black business owners, entrepreneurs, artists, comedians and the list goes on and on. We offer a variety of learning resources and networking opportunities for busy Black Business owners.

Get Your Website Seen On 10 Different Traffic Exchanges Just By Signing Up For One

Posted by Shirley on June 20, 2008 at 1:28am

Traffic Zone is now giving you free access to getting traffic to your website at 10 different traffic exchanges just by signing up at www.trafficzone.biz and get bonuses also. Check it out, it's free, sign up and get 1000 credits to start.

Are YOU Most Productive?

Posted by Queen.B.D on June 20, 2008 at 1:15am

Post from BabyDollKissez.Com I hope you enjoy

Meditate

Two things more valuable than money in this day and age is Time and more Time. People are always complaining of not having enough time. being in a rush and so forth. Time is money, so what can you do to make your day most productive?

Start you day of right!

How do you start your day off? You do know that the beginning could be the end so start it off right. Ever had a bad morning and its followed its way through? Well that's what I mean. I normally start my day off with meditation lets keep it fresh, I don't sit with candles and incense burning chanting "hum rey yum" I don't have time for that I just take 5-10 minutes in silence just to be still and think, sometimes I think of tasks I wish to complete and then I take time to show gratitude. I actually find when I don't do this, the rest of the day I'm running around like an unorganised headless chicken. Most of us really underestimate the power of just sitting and being still for a while. Being still really helps to clear your thoughts......

So ....Book a date with yourself!

Regardless of the time of the day, have 10-20 minutes just to sit and think, if you want to jot down notes of things you have to do then do that. This will help you to focus, you will have time to concentrate and remember all tasks you wish to complete and ways in which to do so. Therefore in action you will be most productive, already having run through your tasks.

Everyone has a peek time within there day. You know a time where you find your self most active, most enthusiastic etc. Are you a morning person? An afternoon person? An evening person? Which ever you identify with, do your most important tasks within this period while you are switched on and ready to go. Doing them at your peek points and not your tedeious will make the most difficult tasks easier to bear.

Cancel Interruptions!

This especially applies to those that work at home, if you have been working all day (whether office or home) have a small gateway period where the phone is plugged out mobiles switched off do not check your email just chill. Break off for a moment and do you. Avoid prolonging this for too long (you don't want people to be worry about you lol.)

Most of all Have a Purpose for your day

Try to get something from each day. Make sure you do one great thing each day no matter how big or small just great.

Lastly....Laugh!

Have fun with your day keep it funky. Be realistic stuff happens and the slightest thing can put a damper on your day but you are the only one in control of your emotions, so regardless of the exterior impacts or people around you make sure your smiling keep your spirits up and things will turn out fine. Things never seem so bad when your smiling and when your having fun the day goes quicker. Ask yourself do you see your glass half empty or Half full ;-)

See I started with asking what can you do to make your day most productive, but what you have to understand is in order to be most productive your personal self awareness and well-being has to be in check. So when asking about being most productive its really about self management rather than task management. As long as your head is clear, you will find most other things in life follow through.

I hope this helps. QueenB.D

xoxoxo

Campbell's Legal Services

Posted by Kala Mujibha on June 19, 2008 at 7:30pm

Company Name: Pre-Paid Legal Services Inc. Independent AssociateOwner: Beverly CampbellIf you enjoy peace of mind and access to legal assistance I can help. A Pre-Paid Legal Membership means unlimited access to the best attorneys in the U.S. for any legal issue. You are covered throughout the U. S. Now you can say 'You will hear from my lawyer" and mean it!Click on the links above or below for more info.www.prepaidlegal.com/hub/beverlycampbellbeverlycampbell@prepaidlegal.comBusiness: 407-952-5199Orlando, Fl

Website is down....

Posted by Margaret Salmond on June 19, 2008 at 7:00pm

Lexus Events, the website, is down but it will be back up and running by Saturday (Nameservers take forever to make the correction)If you need to reach me, email me at margarets@tmo.blackberry.netBe Blessed!

You need to Listen to Leonard Johnson, He walked across the USA at 75!!!

Posted by Rickey on June 19, 2008 at 5:21am

Hello BBWO, I know this site is for enterprising ladies to communicate. Not trying to intrude. However, for everyone who has a special guy in their life ( Dad, Brother, Cousin, Friend who is way up the Road of Life, with some us right behind) this interview has to be shared. One of the reasons Leonard embarked on his walk across the USA, was to honor his deceased wife. Leonard is one of my strong examples of what one person can accomplish that can influence so many more. Enjoy. Networkingly yours.This radio interview was great!!!!! You have to hear the travels of Leonard , who will be 80 years of age this august. This gentleman can teach you a thing or two about living.Find out what was going on when he walked across the USA, with no sponsor, but the CREATOR!Find out how he manages to do more in his Senior Year than most of us do in our Junior Years. Baby Boomer Alert, you really need to listen in.Ok, go to www.jusmcc.com and click on the radio!!!!Look forward to sharing this great interview.Networkingly yours,Rickey

My First Article

Posted by Kelly Laws on June 19, 2008 at 2:30am

I have had the awesome opportunity to be featured on www.sisterspeakbeautysuite.wordpress.com sharing my favorite beauty products. Thank youLisa Peyton-Caire and may you continue to prosper as you lift up other women. Ladies if you get a chance check it out. Be Blessed.

Zanira's Quote of the Day - I AM WORTH IT!

Posted by Zanira Al-Amin on June 19, 2008 at 2:30am

Hello Beautiful Ladies of BBWO! My name is Zanira and I would like to share the following story with all of you. !Zanira's Quote of the Day -II AM WORTH IT!I’M WORTH A LOT!During a brief conversation, a man asked a woman he was pursuing the question “What kind of man are you looking for?” She sat quietly for a moment before looking him in the eye and asking, “Do you really want to know?” Reluctantly, he said, “Yes.”She began to expound…..”As a woman in this day and age, I am in a position to ask a man what he can do for me that I can’t do for myself. I pay my own bills, I take care of my household without the help of any man. I am in the position to ask, “What can you bring to the table?” The man looked at her. Clearly he thought that she was referring to money. She quickly corrected his thought and stated, “I am not referring to money, I need something more. I need a man who is striving for perfection in every aspect of life.”He sat back in his chair, folded his arms, and asked her to explain. She said, “I am looking for someone who is striving for perfection mentally because I need conversation and mental stimulation. I don’t need a simple minded man. I am looking for someone who is striving for perfection spiritually because I don’t need to be unequally yoked…..believers mixed with unbelievers is a recipe for disaster. I need a man who is striving for perfection financially because I don’t need a financial burden. I am looking for someone who is sensitive enough to understand what I go through as a woman, but strong enough to keep me grounded. I am looking for someone who I can respect. In order to be submissive, I must respect him. I cannot be submissive to a man who is not taking care of his business. I have no problem being submissive….he just has to be worthy. God made woman to be a helpmate for man. I can’t help a man if he can’t/won’t help himself.When she finished her spiel, she looked at him. He sat there with a puzzled look on his face. He said, “You are asking a lot. She replied,“I’m worth a lot.”http://www.bizpreneur.com/zanira

Headwraps!

Posted by candacem907-Ms.MilanMinerals on June 19, 2008 at 1:34am

I'm going to post this up but trust me it's intended to insipre the crafty sewing sisters on the board! If you you'e already selling these type of items, PLEASE let a sista know so I can buy from you! I'm a nappy head too and I'd LOVE to have these in a variety of patterns!CeeCee posted a link the other day about head wraps and there was a link to a wonderful site that sold some but there were only 3 colors, a pink multi,black and I believe white. I'm sure they'll expand the line. But I wanted CeeCee to see some I found at a local beauty supply store.......and I know if I found them in ALASKA, girl you can find them at your location! LOL( and the thing with these is they're already knotted! My sister fell out when I pulled it off one day to show her LOL)So here is a crazy looking picture of me wearing a red one, I also have a dark tan one I couldn't find for the picture! And yea I was playing around with the editing stuff on picasa!

The Just Right Candle Company Is Simmering In My Pots!

Posted by candacem907-Ms.MilanMinerals on June 19, 2008 at 1:00am

For the ladies that love to constantly have their homes and every room in the house smelling lovely at all time,the Just Right Candle Company is for you! I found this company by chance. I was starting another company that was geared to be a promo type thing for small businesses.Well the owner Amanda was invited to participate and followed through and was prompt about everything. That stood out to me. People and businesses that do what they're supposed to do ,when they're supposed to do it rank very high with me.So when I was looking for a company to purchase candles from in wholesale amounts Amanda at the Just Right Candle Company was high on my list. I knew her shipping was fast, the candles were AWESOME (Very long lasting scent). So if your looking for candles for your home or apartments,dorm room ( JRCC specializes in wickless candles) please browse the Just Right Candle Company! http://www.justrightcandles.comHere is a picture for your viewing pleasure! To those who have never burned tarts, this is one of my many tart burners,inside is one of the JRCC Jumbo melts($3.00), surrounded by two other scents! The small sizes are the JRCC Mini melts. I also included a pic of the tealights I use to put under the candle to melt and scent your home! BUT if you don't want to use a flame at all please use an electric warmer :)

I'm a Networking Machine!?? :-)

Posted by Nirvana - Pure Romance on June 18, 2008 at 10:30pm

OK, so after my blog about my networking skills, I decided to put all of the advice I received (thanks to all of you) and put it to work. I knew that yesterday was going to be a very hectic day.I had meeting in the morning with one of hostesses, she's a little nervous about having a "toy" party with some of her church friends present so I needed to reassure her that there is nothing dirty or wrong about these things and that's one of the great things about having a private ordering room...no one will ever know how you get down behind closed doors! She felt better afterwards and I think her party will be one of my highest!Later in the day, I had a interview with a growing Non-Profit looking for a Director of Programs, this one has promise but I will need a second meeting with them to see if it's a good fit for me.And now let's to the networking....my 3rd stop of the day was to a screening of a documentary of a friends friend...and the cocktail hour prior to it was going to be my first test. When I was approached I decided to go with this line about what I do..."I teach women how to bring the spark back into the bedroom or create one if it's not there from the beggining :o)" And that led to SO many follow-up questions...so the advice I received was GREAT...sometimes less is more!My last stop of the evening was to a pool hall to watch the game (I'm a NBA FANATIC) this one was not as productive because I don't like people talking to me during the game, but I did manage to get a few words in during the commercial.So maybe I'm not a MACHINE just yet, but I defintely noticed the difference by changing my 30 second commercial! Thanks to ALL who replied to that blog!NirvanaPRbyNirvana@gmail.comwww.PRbyNirvana.com

Whats Next for Lexus Events

Posted by Margaret Salmond on June 18, 2008 at 9:30pm

Following is a list of some of whats in the works for Lexus Events. There are still some events that we will be looking for vendors and sponsors. Keep on the look out for our press releases when we get ready to make our announcements.Got a pen and paper? OK jot these dates down!2008Nov 21 - 23 Before You Tie The Knot...Long Beach, CA2009January 25, 2009Vendor, Modern Bridal Faire, Claremont Hotel, Oakland (LE's travel division, Lets Get Away Travel)Feb, 2009Before You Tie The Knot....New York, NYMarch, 2009MahoganyBride2B™ Bridal show, Lexus Events, Producer,Oakland, CAMay, 2009Bay Diva Day, Oakland, CA Celebrating the Size Sexy (BBW Event)

POWER WEDNESDAY TONIGHT W/ THE BBC ~ JOIN US ~ FREE ~ GRANT WRITING

Posted by The Black Business Cafe on June 18, 2008 at 8:45pm

The Power Wednesday call will take place tonight at 9pm.Conference Call # ~ 712-432-1600Access # ~ 100749#Guest:Prophetss Allison CrossSubject: Grant WritingAllison Cross has released a grant manual that shows you how toeffectively write grant proposals as well as over 500 agencies that arewaiting to fund your vision for business and ministry.Every year, TRILLIONS of dollars are REQUIRED to be given away by the Federal Government and Private Foundations.It's available for the taking... IF you know where to look:- Education Grants- Home Business Grants- Housing Grants- Personal Needs Grants- Healthcare Grants(The difference between a Grant and a Loan is that Grants don't ever haveto be repaid!)When you purchase this manual, In addition I will include April Masonse-book how to establish your business credit without using your personal credit.Email me for complete details. The time is now, dont miss your season of harvest. Price- 39.95

3 Steps You Can Use Developing Leaders In Your Company

Posted by The Black Business Cafe on June 18, 2008 at 8:20pm

With the economy bordering on a recession, every company is looking for ways to increase revenues while decreasing costs. Some companies believe one of the easiest ways to do this is to cut their employee training budget. However, businesses interested in long-term viability recognize that to be successful they must continually develop their people, especially their leaders.According to recent research, companies with regular employee training consistently outperform companies who do not train their people.There are many books, seminars and prepackaged programs that claim to help you do this more effectively and efficiently. Most have varying success because they are not customized to meet your company's specific needs. Canned approaches have little lasting effect.Leadership development is not about reading a book or attending a seminar. Sustained development of leaders is a process. It must be tailored to meet your company's specific needs and goals to be successful. Research indicates there are some common criteria among successful leadership development programs. The best ones promote leadership in three phases:Plan for Leadership Development.The first part of planning a leadership program is to examine what you currently have in place.In order to gauge your efforts, answer the following five questions:Does your company have a comprehensive plan for developing people?What are the benefits you would receive from having an effective leadership development program?What are the estimated costs in turnover, lower productivity, and lower morale to not having one now?What would a successful leadership development program look like for your company?How much time, energy, and money are you willing to invest to develop one?The next planning step is to begin identifying characteristics of people who are already successful leaders in your company. Every company has a unique corporate structure and culture that rewards particular characteristics. The key to building a successful program begins with looking at successful people. Think about the people who are or have been most successful at your company and ask:What kind of training experiences have they had?What kind of educational background do your most successful people have?How many years of experience in your line of work do they have?How do they fit in with your corporate culture?How would you describe their personality style?What best motivates them?Practice Leadership Development.Once you have formed an outline of how you want to develop your leaders and what "success" looks like, you must start implementing the program. Start small, with one or two people. This will allow you to work out the bugs inconspicuously. There are different ways to begin the program, but nearly all successful ones have at least two clear parts: specific leadership training and coaching/mentoring. The training can include elements of:Effective business communicationConflict resolution skillsTeam buildingRelating to different personality stylesTime managementDelegation skillsGoal settingCritical coaching skillsOther areas specific to your businessThe second part is coaching or mentoring. All of the top professional and Olympic athletes recognize the importance of a personal coach to help them reach peak performance. A mentor or coach can provide your leaders with the one-on-one attention needed to help take them to the next level quickly.Most organizations use some form of sales to drive their product or services. In many of these businesses the sales team leader is the one who does the coaching or mentoring. The majority of these sales leaders are in a position of leadership because they were good at selling. Unfortunately, there is not a direct correlation between being a good salesman and being a good coach or leader. Many leaders have some natural tendencies: they train others how they were trained, they try to motivate other according to how they are motivated, and they tend to miss-focus their energies.Even the best intentioned sales leaders often display a subtle tendency to focus on two groups of people: the employees who are top performers and those who are under performing. The average performers are usually left to fend for themselves. If sales leaders are aware of this natural tendency, they can usually self-correct it. With some additional coaching, it is easier to help the average performer become a top performer than it is to transform the under performer. When you have developed a comprehensive training program you can strategize about where your investment of time will result in the best ROI.An effective mentor or coach can help decrease learning curves. Many businesses have a learning curve in which people at the front of the curve significantly under perform the people at the top of the curve. For example, if you realize that it takes a new sales associate 12 to 18 months to start really performing, how much would it be worth to your company to dedicate a leader to spending one-on-one time coaching with new sales associates if that coaching could decrease their time to optimal performance from 12-18 months to 6-8 months?Promote Leadership Development.Once you have refined your program by working with a couple of leaders it's time to start promoting the program.Start by making it known during the interview process with potential employees. Many small company's use their leadership development program to draw in high-potential applicants that otherwise would go to larger organizations.Sell your leadership training program to applicants by telling them (and showing them) how invested you are in helping them develop as a leader. The kind of people who do well in small to medium-sized businesses are keenly aware of the importance of self-development. These people will be impressed that you want to make an investment in them.Start highlighting successful characteristics to your current employees and draw attention to the employees that are doing well. Be careful to point out that your goal is for every employee to be their best.Work hard not to create an atmosphere of cut-throat competition where one person can win only when another loses. Show every employee how they can succeed.Use your leaders to coach others and consider bringing in an outside coach to help your leaders coach their employees more effectively.SummaryLeadership training is absolutely critical to the success of business, especially small to medium sized companies. One of the mantras of the 1990's human potential movement was "people are our most valuable asset." There was a lot of verbal acknowledgement of this truth, but not a lot of companies acted on it. Smart companies are beginning to recognize that leadership development and people training is a process, not an event and this process has bottom line results.For companies looking to increase their revenues and cut their costs, leadership development is a must. Over the long run companies who develop their leaders and train their people significantly outperform companies who do not.Trust what you've trainedBy Coach Kevin Faulkner @ The BBC

Promotions & Sales!!!!!

Posted by Dominique on June 18, 2008 at 6:34pm

Spice up your event is doing a promotion until July 4th, 2008. We are sending out 5 FREE goody bags to customers who would like to sample the bags before they buy. If you are interested in getting your 5 FREE bags, check us out http://spiceupyourevent.webs.comAlso, a few of our packages are on sale! This sale ends July 16th so don't wait!We've got a lot going on at Spice Up Your Event so please stop by and check us out. Don't forget to sign up for newsletters!!http://spiceupyourvent.webs.comThanks, Dominique

Awesome Intern/Mentorship Opportunity with April Mason Ministries

Posted by April Mason on June 18, 2008 at 5:22pm

Are you right for this opportunity?

Do you ever have the feeling that there is something else on this Earth that you are purposed for?Are you looking for a place to sow your talent into good ground?Do you have a servant's heart?Are you tired of living below what you know God has put inside you?Do you want to take your life - personal and professional to the next level but you’re not sure where to even start?Are you trustworthy and operate with integrity?Have you been considering starting your own business?Have life challenges thrown you a curve ball and forced you to abort your dream?April Mason Ministries will hold its 1st annual Mentoring & Internship Program. We are currently seeking individuals with dynamic skills to join our team of dedicated professionals on an uncompensated internship basis The goal of this program is to provide a hands-on learning opportunity for women who are looking for guidance in their personal and professional life. Though this is an intern/mentorship program, it is also ministry. You must have a true relationship with the Father, strong prayer life, and a servant's heart.Because of the type of ministry God has etrusted us with it requires much prayer and the ability to hear from God. We are looking for individuals who will serve as an intern and in exchange will be provided with coaching and mentoring to help them realize their personal and professional dreams! We’re seeking individuals who are leaders (or individuals who want to serve as leaders) who are willing to use the information they learn through this program to make a positive impact on the lives of women and youth in our community. Though we cannot offer interns monetary compensation, we will supply letters of recommendation and it will be a great opportunity for you to make some outstanding contacts.Our program is an excellent starting point for anyone interested in the field of consulting, speaking, public relations and marketing. After a successful internship, it is our hope that we will be able to hire many of our interns as part of the April Mason Ministry Team. April Mason Ministries is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented individual to serve as Administrative Assistants. Individuals with a marketing or business background, currently in school, or who have degrees or just a natural gifting in business, communications, public relations, marketing or journalism are encouraged to apply. Interested applicants must live in the Metro Atlanta Area or have access to the area for weekend and evening events. As part of the mentoring process, we want to prepare these women to deal with any situation therefore they will be exposed to all aspects of the business.Duties will range from but aren’t limited to basic clerical tasks, proofreading documents, evaluating manuscripts and proposals, to media research, event planning and onsite coordination, marketing. This will be a wonderful ride so please be prepared for an exciting, fast-paced atmosphere. The ideal candidates must be organized and possess excellent written and verbal communication skills plus be proficient on the computer. We seek interns that have initiative, pray life, humility, and are bright, creative and eager to learn. You must be someone who follows through and can work independently (virtual) and meet deadlines.Current Opportunities• Graphic Designer• Multimedia Specialist• Editor/Technical Writer• Public Relations Specialist• Marketing Assistant• Research Analyst• Publicist• Events Planner• Personal Assistant (Metro Atlanta Area)Some Duties will include:Research - Researching media outlets, venues, clients, businesses, marketing trends for our clients and their businesses.Marketing - Venue location, event coordination, set up/break down, promotions, on-site contact, liaison - as needed, as well as internet marketing.Public Relations - Assist with writing press releases, help create pitches, contact broadcast/print/online media to get interviews, submit articles, and serve as on-site contact.*All interns will work directly with April Mason, the President of April Mason Ministries* Will require a minimum commitment of 10 hours per week to start, generally 3-6 months.* Will require local travel and event appearances. Any additional travel will be expensed by company. Closing date to apply for internship is Until Filled Interested candidates must have telephone or cell phone & Internet access. Please forward resume/cover letter as to why you would like to work with April Mason Ministries. In addition, please answer the following questions so we can get to know a little more about you. If you need more room for your answers please use the space provided below. Add question number so that we can identify what question you are answering.Please email the information to april@aprilmasonministries.com Put be sure to put “Internship” in the subject line. This information will only be used during the decision process and is confidential.April Mason Ministries Mission StatementApril Mason Ministries, is dedicated to empowering women to become self sufficient through entrepreneurship. We understand the importance of using our God given ability to generate the life we were created to live as King's daughters. We understand that this type of life can only be achieved by understanding who we are and becoming a whole person. April Mason Ministries primary mission is to make women aware that even though life may have thrown a curve ball in our plan that we can still reach our destiny. With the understanding of self love, self worth, self respect, confidence, boldness, forgiveness, strength, perseverance character and integrity you are guaranteed to becoming the women that God has called you to be. You may be broken but never bound!"But this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal. . . ." (Philippians 3:13-14)1. Do you have a servant’s heart?2. Are you a person that can take instruction?3. What is your relationship like with the Father?4. Are you self motivated?5. Are you active in the community interested in finding out how you can become? If so what are your community service involvements?6. Are you willing to take personal responsibility for your own personal growth and development?7. Are you willing to invest the time that will be necessary to make this partnership a successful venture?8. Are you open to receiving help, assistance and guidance?9. Are you realistic about your goals and expectations in life?10. Are you a team player and are you able to take constructive criticism?11.Have you ever been a mentee? If so what type of program was it?12.What professional and/or personal skills do you want to strengthen through this experience?13. Why are you interested in this program?14. List 3 specific goals that you hope to attain from the mentoring relationship?15. List a few personal and/or professional goals and objectives that you are you working toward in the next year? In the next five?16. What are your hobbies or special interests?17. Are you able to travel at any given notice?18. What other information would you like to add that you’d like for us to know about when considering your application

North America's Best Zoos - Top 10

Posted by Teresa on June 18, 2008 at 4:31pm

North America's Best Zoos: Editor's Top 10Professional Travel Guides Top 10 list for North America's Best Zoos helps you decide where you want to go. Editor's Top 10 lists offer selections from our editors that help you plan your travel based on your lifestyle, entertainment, sightseeing, or recreation options. Lions and tigers and bears ... and more. From roaming pachyderms to laughing hyenas, our editors have chosen some of the best zoos in North America for you to visit.

1. Audubon Zoo6500 Magazine St., Uptown, New Orleans, LouisianaSee & Do - Sightseeing - Zoos & WildlifeNear the river end of Audubon Park, this beautifully landscaped facility is considered one of the top five zoos in the country. It houses more than 1,800 animals in simulated natural habitats, including an impressive swamp area full of alligators. Open Tuesday-Friday 10 am-4 pm, Saturday and Sunday 10 am-5 pm. US$12 adults, US$7 children. 6500 Magazine St., Uptown, New Orleans. Phone 504-581-4629. Toll-free 866-487-2966. http://www.auduboninstitute.org.2. Bronx ZooFordham Road and Bronx River Parkway, New York, New YorkSee & Do - Sightseeing - Zoos & WildlifeThis zoo has more than 7,000 animals, representing more than 700 species, in natural habitats. Get face-to-face with the critters with no bars to separate you. In the pitch-black World of Darkness, populated exclusively by nocturnal animals, experience real nightlife. The Congo Gorilla Forest re-creates an African rain forest with more than 300 animals, including 30 gorillas, who range through 11 waterfalls, bamboo forests, meadows and wading pools. (32-year-old Pattycake was the first gorilla born in New York City.) Jungle World re-creates four Asian habitats filled with bear cats, black leopards, elephants, Indian rhinoceroses, white Siberian tigers and the Asian small-clawed otter. For an overview, ride the Bengali Express monorail through the zoo. Children younger than 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Open Monday-Friday 10 am-5 pm, Saturday and Sunday 10 am-5:30 pm (November-March daily till 4:30 pm). US$14 adults, US$12 seniors, US$10 children, free for children younger than 3. Pay what you wish on Wednesday. In winter, rates are reduced. Some activities charge an additional fee. Combination tickets are available. Strollers US$6, double strollers US$10. All-day parking is US$8. Fordham Road and Bronx River Parkway (subway line 2 or 5 to East Tremont Avenue-West Farm Square; exit left and walk north two blocks on Boston Road to the zoo entrance), Bronx, New York City. Phone 718-367-1010. http://www.bronxzoo.com.3. Central Park Wildlife Center/Tisch Children's Zoo830 Fifth Ave., New York, New YorkSee & Do - Sightseeing - Zoos & WildlifeKnown as the Central Park Zoo by locals, it is the oldest wildlife center in the city-it opened its doors in 1864. Divided into three zones-Arctic, temperate and rain forest-it's home to more than 1,400 animals and 130 species. The Tisch Children's Zoo is filled with hands-on exhibits and pettable domestic animals. Take lots of quarters for the feed machines to give fishicles (peanut-butter-smeared treats) to the polar bears. The beloved Delacorte Musical Clock draws crowds every half-hour, when a motorized menagerie of little animals twirls around to nursery-rhyme music. Regularly scheduled Wildlife Theater performances are great. Open Monday-Friday 10 am-5 pm, Saturday and Sunday 10 am-5:30 pm. US$8 adults, US$4 seniors, US$3 children ages 3-12, free for children younger than 3. 830 Fifth Ave. (in the park at 64th Street), Manhattan, New York City. Phone 212-439-6500. http://nyzoosandaquarium.com.

4. Dallas Zoo650 SRL Thornton Freeway, Dallas, TexasSee & Do - Sightseeing - Zoos & WildlifeThe oldest zoo in Texas features two main areas. The Wilds of Africa area includes a 20-minute monorail safari and is always a favorite. One of the more popular exhibits is the Lemur Lookout. The other major area, Zoo North, includes tiger exhibits, Primate Place and more. A gigantic giraffe statue marks the entrance to the zoo. Daily 9 am-5 pm. US$8.75 adults, US$5.75 children. Parking fee is US$5. 650 SRL Thornton Freeway (in Oak Cliff, about 3 mi/5 km south of downtown; the DART Red Line light rail goes directly to the zoo), Dallas. Phone 214-670-5656. http://www.dallaszoo.com.5. Indianapolis Zoo1200 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, IndianaSee & Do - Sightseeing - Zoos & WildlifeFeaturing an aquarium, conservatory and botanical garden, this downtown zoo has more than 3,000 animals in naturalistic habitats along with one of the world's largest pavilions for sea animals, including a touch pool full of sharks. Children flock to the Oceans exhibit, which features an underwater tunnel that allows for spectacular views of dolphins playing. Moving up, some 15 ft/4.6 m above ground, children have the chance to feed baby giraffes. They also love the miniature train, the dolphin show,the water-spray park and the miniature roller coaster. Monday-Friday 9 am-5 pm, Saturday and Sunday 9 am-6 pm. US$13.50 adults, US$8.50 children ages 2-12. US$5 for parking, all rides cost extra. 1200 W. Washington St., Indianapolis. Phone 317-630-2001. http://www.indyzoo.com.6. Lincoln Park Zoo2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago, IllinoisSee & Do - Sightseeing - Zoos & WildlifeLincoln Park Zoo is one of the nation's oldest zoos and one of the few that does not charge admission. It keeps the educational adventure fresh with immersive exhibits, including the Regenstein Center for African Apes, featuring indoor, outdoor and overhead habitats for its primates. The Regenstein African Journey wanders the continent from pygmy hippo pools to klipspringer ledges and giraffe savannahs. The Pritzker Family Children's Zoo is designed to make kids feel as if they are at home in the woods. They can walk through tunnels, explore the Treetop Canopy Climbing Adventure and learn about the lives of animals such as wolves, beavers and otters. Kids also love choosing an animal to ride on the Endangered Species Carousel. The adjacent Farm-in-the-Zoo features barnyard critters and frequent cow-milking and butter-churning demonstrations. There are lots of special exhibits and activities throughout the year, such as family pajama parties, breakfast with the animals and educational programs. Grounds open daily 9 am-6 pm, summer until 7 pm, November-March until 5 pm; buildings open 10 am-5 pm, summer until 6:30 pm, November-March until 4:30 pm. Free. Parking is US$14-$24. 2200 N. Cannon Drive (in Lincoln Park), Chicago. Phone 312-742-2000. http://www.lpzoo.org.

7. Miami MetroZoo12400 S.W. 152nd St., Miami, FloridaSee & Do - Sightseeing - Zoos & WildlifeThe zoo is home to 800 animals, including such rare species as the koala, the white tiger and the Komodo dragon. It's encircled by a monorail that has four hop-on/hop-off stops along its 2.5-mi/4-km route. Exhibits include Wings of Asia, the largest open-air Asian aviary in the Western Hemisphere, featuring 300 exotic, rare and endangered birds from 70 species. Tram tours are also offered. Three food courts and a petting zoo are on the grounds. Wildlife and Theater of Ecology shows are held several times a day. The zoo is open daily 9:30 am-5:30 pm, with last admission at 4 pm. US$13.95 adults, US$9.95 children ages 3-12, free for children 2 and younger. Buy tickets online for a small discount. 12400 S.W. 152nd St. (southwest of Coral Gables), Miami. Phone 305-251-0400. http://www.miamimetrozoo.com.8. National Zoological Park3001 Connecticut Ave. N.W., Washington, District of ColumbiaSee & Do - Sightseeing - Zoos & WildlifeWithin the Smithsonian's 163-acre/66-hectare parklike zoo are 5,000 animals, most of them living in open areas resembling their native habitats. Special attractions include the gorillas, seal and sea lion training, and elephant care. The Asia Trail is home to sloths, fishing cats and giant salamanders (they're 5 ft/2 m long). But the biggest draw is the pandas, Tian Tian, Mei Xiang, and their cub, Tai Shan. Children love the place, and the setting makes it ideal for long visits. The grounds are open daily April-October 6 am-8 pm, the animal buildings 10 am-6 pm; November-March 6 am-6 pm, with the animal buildings open 10 am-4:30 pm. Closed Christmas Day. Free. 3001 Connecticut Ave. N.W. (Metro: Woodley Park-Zoo, but the Cleveland Park station is closer), Washington, D.C. Phone 202-633-4800. http://nationalzoo.si.edu.9. Philadelphia Zoo3400 W. Girard Ave., Philadelphia, PennsylvaniaSee & Do - Sightseeing - Zoos & WildlifeSet among Victorian gardens in Fairmount Park, the first zoo in the U.S. houses more than 2,000 mammals, birds and reptiles. Its many natural habitats include Bear Country, African Plains and Carnivore Kingdom. The zoo's newest attraction is the Zooballoon, a 15-minute hot-air-balloon ride that offers amazing aerial views of the animals and the city skyline. Open February-November daily 9:30 am-5 pm; December and January daily 9:30 am-4 pm. Late March-October: US$16.95 adults, US$13.95 children; November-late March: US$12.95 adults and children. Zooballoon is an additional US$10. 3400 W. Girard Ave. (at 34th Street), Philadelphia. Phone 215-243-1100. http://www.philadelphiazoo.org.

10. San Diego Zoo2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CaliforniaSee & Do - Sightseeing - Zoos & WildlifeArguably the country's premier zoo. Most of the animals (including a number of endangered species) live in natural-habitat enclosures. It has the largest koala colony outside Australia. One of the biggest attractions is the pandas, and a new cub was born August 2007. Also be sure to see the Polar Bear Plunge and the Rain Forest Aviary. A guided bus tour and a skytram ride are available—you might be thankful for these options after walking some of the hilly terrain. Keep in mind that although the line for the bus' sun-exposed upper deck is much longer than for the lower, the covered lower deck is more comfortable and puts you at eye-level with the animals. Behind-the-scenes tours are available for groups of 15 or more. Opens daily at 9 am, closing times vary by season. US$22.75 adults, US$15.50 children. A combination pass for the Zoo and the Wild Animal Park is available. 2920 Zoo Drive (in Balboa Park), San Diego. Phone 619-231-1515. http://www.sandiegozoo.org.

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Posted by Ashley Crockett on June 18, 2008 at 6:31am

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Note: this page contains paid content.

Note: this page contains paid content.

Note: this page contains paid content.

Note: this page contains paid content.