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Take the Black Business America Pledge!

Posted by Trina Newby on June 12, 2008 at 2:44pm

Greetings,If you haven't heard about it already, Black Business America has developed 12 positive principles that is quickly gaining alot of positive feedback. Together the principles are called the Black Business America Pledge. Please see them below:The Black Business America PledgeAs an African American, proud of my ancestry and heritage, I believe wealth is my birthright and that I have the right to claim my wealth and take my power back. No longer will I allow statistics, poor habits, society or the lack of knowledge to become an obstacle in reaching my full potential and greatness. Therefore, I pledge to implement the following 12 principles in my life and encourage other African Americans to do the same.I, ___________________________ pledge to claim my wealth and take my power back by:1. Embracing my Heritage and fulfilling GODÂ’s divine purpose for my LIFE.2. Refusing to speak or think negatively about myself or my people.3. Developing a vision and life plan to reach my greatest potential.4. Increasing my knowledge through reading and education.5. Increasing my knowledge regarding finances, retirement and investing.6. Eliminating or refraining from getting into “bad” debt.7. Eliminating personal habits that are preventing me from accomplishing my goals.8. Developing life enhancing habits that will positively contribute to my mental, physical and financial well-being.9. Understanding the importance of Economic Empowerment and how it can positively impact my life, my community and my people.10. Becoming involved in my local and national African American community.11. Mentoring, encouraging and supporting at least one African American child monthly.12. Encouraging other African Americans to JOIN with me in TAKING the Black Business America PLEDGE!Click here to take the pledge today!

A little about "Me"

Posted by Yvonne J. Rugley on June 12, 2008 at 2:00am

Hello, my name is Yvonne. I have 4 "adult" children, and a "11" year old. I also have "7" grandchildren.Things have been so incredibly hard for me in the last 2 years. I have a degree and also certification in MicroSoft programs. Sometimes though, all the training and education in the world does not help you land a good job, or any job. I've worked lots of minimum wage jobs.Last year I got a good job as an administrative assistant at my old alma mater. I never made such good money before in my life. I even got in because of "knowing" the "right" people. I was told that my job was safe. But as all things go, it wasn't to last. It lasted for 2 months. My assignments after that were either short or non-existent. My son and I have been suffering for months with no work and hardly any food. We've been living off of the good graces of other people. I have even gotten into other "at-home" businesses, with NO success.Then I came across this fabulous company that I've come across before in years past, but I passed it up without even checking it out. When I came across it again recently, I was very shocked to see that what it offered was very simplistic and fabulous! I had a moment of anger at myself for realizing what I had passed up years before. I will not make that mistake again.Please check out this fantastic "at-home" business opportunity. It will revolutionize and change your life forever. At least check this out. There is no pressure to do anything, except for to at least check it out so you can say you know what it's all about. http://www.freedom.ws/coolbreezeclub

Smell Goods...

Posted by Michelle C. on June 12, 2008 at 1:58am

Really does smell good! I ordered some products from Itiel McVey's Smell Goods 2008 about a week ago I received them the other day. Not only did I get what I ordered I also received some free samples as well, that was a great surprise.I used the Pure Body Balm which I must say I fell in love with instantly, I also used the lotion since I was fresh out of the shower good smells all around. I loved it! I have not had the opportunity to use everyone I am sure they will be just as delightful.Smell Goods 2008Thank youMichelle

Zanira's Word of the Day - ACTUALIZATION

Posted by Zanira Al-Amin on June 11, 2008 at 10:44pm

Zanira’s Word of the Day - ACTUALIZATIONWhen this word appears, know that the time to act is NOW! Be in the moment, manifest your goals and desires, make them real. What do you truly want in your life? It is time to become clear and to move forward. A positive energy alignment has moved into place. It is a prime time to realize desired outcomes.Actualization encompasses all levels of existence; physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. Often it can signify an awareness on an inner level that brings into your consciousness clear understanding, enabling you to act in accordance with your desires.Now is the time to actually bring something new and exciting into your physical life. Stretch and extend your power. Make your move. Dreams really can come true.A time for wishes to be fulfilled. Reach for your higher aspirations. Increase spiritual awareness and awaken into the now. Choose wisely, great power is with you. You do have the strength and courage to change things. Celebrate your results. Dramatic changes are set into motion. Choose to directly experience them.Zanira Says SMILE

Women Rock! Some Interesting Statistics

Posted by Zanira Al-Amin on June 11, 2008 at 10:30pm

American Women At A GlanceSome interesting statistics:• 140 million women make up 50.9% of the total U.S. population• Average life expectancy is 79.7 years• 84 million women work outside the home, making up 46.3% of the labor force.• 56% of all bachelor’s degrees and 57% of all master’s degrees are earned by women.• 49% of professional/managerial positions are held by women.• 23% of professional wives earn more than their husbands.• 53% of all voters are women.Zanira Says Smile.....(Sources U.S. Census Bureau and Health magazine)

Want Adeventure? Look Who's GOTT IT...

Posted by Kala Mujibha on June 11, 2008 at 10:00pm

A former IT Project Manager, Teresa Johnson began her research via the Internet, looking for business opportunities that she would enjoy. When she found the opportunity to start a Travel Agency, Teresa knew it was the business opportunity for her. At the same time, she also joined Your Travel Biz(YTB) as a Travel Affiliate. Since she loves interacting with people, planning and travel, she created a Travel Agency, Gottitravel.Gottitravel, LLC was launched in 2007 and since then, Teresa has assisted many in their travel planning. From taking cruises to finding that special vacation. Her affiliation with YTB provides the opportunity to offer more than just travel. If you go to any of her websites, other items offered include concert and theater tickets, flowers for all occasions, chocolates and much more…Gottitravel’s, LLC’s mission is to provide customers with products and services that exceed their expectations.Company name: Gottitravel, LLCOwner: Teresa JohnsonWebsite: www.gottitravel.com www.gottitravel.paradisenetwork.com

Playboy Jazz Cruise

Posted by Margaret Salmond on June 11, 2008 at 9:37pm

There is no more important name in jazz than “Playboy”. From the early days of the groundbreaking “Playboy After Dark” television show to the annual jazz poll in the magazine to the now 30 year old Playboy Jazz Festival, no one has done jazz better than Playboy. Join Host Marcus Miller and our very special artists for the inaugural sailing of the Playboy Jazz Cruise.Set sail with the Playboy Jazz Cruise from Jan 25 thru Feb 1, 2009 on Holland America's m/s Westerdam leaving Ft. Lauderdale with the following Ports of CallSan Juan, Puerto RicoNevis, West IndiesSt. Barths, French West IndiesHalf Moon Cay, Bahamasand hear the music of:MARCUS MILLERHERBIE HANCOCKDIANNE REEVESKEB' MO'PONCHO SANCHEZJAMES MOODYROY HARGROVEJAMES CARTERELDARROBERTA GAMBARININEW BIRTH BRASS BANDALONZO BODDENPricing, deposits and other inportant information can be found herehttp://www.playboyjazzcruise.com/Pricing/tabid/1042/Default.aspxMust be paid in full by September 30, 2008If you wanna check out more details about this cruise, check out http://www.playboyjazzcruise.com and when your ready to book, drop me a line at margaret@letsgetawaytravel.net

Jim Neusom is awesome!!!

Posted by Rickey on June 11, 2008 at 9:17pm

Listen to his interview on the JMOS Radio Show.He discusses how he handled major adversities.No income, No place to stay, No job. No FriendsNo was all over the place!!!!Listen to how he said No to No!!!Find out what his major resource was that helped him during this time of challenge.What he did after the federal court stripped him of his “criminal free” status and labeled him felon.Find out how he rebuilt himself and his companies.This is great listen.Oh yes, true to form, Jim has made a special offer that will visually please you.You can get a free screensaver of African Americans created by Jim. These screensavers have a national audience.Listen to the show and find out what you need to do take advantage of this free offer. Net Working Increases Net WorthGo to www.juniques.us an listen to the show.Networkingly yours,Rickey

Get the New Scent-Sations!

Posted by Kala Mujibha on June 11, 2008 at 9:00pm

Michelle Cobbs, owner of Scent-Sations is not just your run-of -the mill online aroma therapy shop. Scent-Sations provides gourmet items not just for your skin and dwelling space, but also provides flavorful scent-sations for the tastebuds; with items such as candles, air fresheners, soaps, lotions, AND a gourmet bakery! Check out Michelle Cobbs' great products today!Company name: Scent-Sations, Inc - Mia Bella Gourmet CandlesOwner: Michelle Cobbs, Independent DistributorWebsite: http://www.ibelieve.scent-team.com/shop/scart.phpContact Info: supremecandlescents@gmail.comPhone: 631-236-3391

We Lost Another Black Leader - Pat Tobin, PR Icon

Posted by Jim Neusom on June 11, 2008 at 6:28pm

Greetings Family,(Contact Information At Bottom Of Page)It's your friendly neighborhood "Digital Drummer" again (smile)We lost another Black leader today. Pat Tobin - friend, mentor, and advocate to many, passed on to greater glory today.Pat was always there for me and I will miss her dearly. She was always encouraging and supportive. Her legacy is embedded in many Black entrepreneurs and community causes.Cancer awareness was one of the many causes she supported and promoted. Her life's work on the behalf of women and Black business, will ensure her place in PR history.Remember, We Must Share The Knowledge (Network)...To Share The Dollars!!!***************(Advertisement)*********************Need some great ideas for corporate or personal gift-giving?Then go to City Lights Software(http://www.citylightssoftware.com )and see some of the most unique afrocentric gifts available online!We Deliver ONLINE - Direct To Your Desktop for just $14.95Please take the time to purchase one our afrocentric screen savers TODAY!Don't Just Talk the Talk...Let Your Dollars Walk the WalkIf you have any problems with purchasing online contact me direct at sales@citylightssoftware.com or call (213) 944-4176******************************************************----- Original Message ----From: "targetmarketnews@yahoogroups.com"To: Jim NeusomSent: Wednesday, June 11, 2008 2:55:51 AMSubject: [targetmarketnews] Digest Number 858Patricia L. Tobin, public relations pioneer and icon, loses fight with cancerCourtesy of Ken Smikle - Editor and Publisher of TargetMarketNew.comhttp://www.targetmarketnews.com/storyid06100801a.htm(June 10, 2008) Patricia L. Tobin, a pioneer in media, public relations and community relations, and co-founded the first national organization of African-American PR professionals, died today in Los Angeles following a long struggle against cancer. She was 65.For 25 years, Tobin administered her unique brand of public relations that focused on building great long-lasting relationships in the black community, corporate America and Hollywood. A dedicated activist for causes that impacted minorities, women and youth, Tobin created opportunities for underserved consumers and communities that resulted in corporate investment and philanthropic support for a variety of important initiatives."Pat was an amazing human being who gave herself so willingly to others. We had plans to honor her at the 10th Annual National Black Public Relations Society Conference and Career Fair in November and will now have a full celebration of her life at our event," said NBPRS President Wynona Redmond. Tobin was a co-founder of the organization in 1983.In 1984, after years of working in various positions at CBS television, Tobin decided to take a leave of absence and open her own public relations firm. Her first client was Spike Lee, who hired the agency to publicize what became his first commercial hit file, "She's Gotta Have It."In 1988, when the Toyota Corporation sought to repair its relationship with African American consumers, Tobin seized the opportunity to educate the automotive giant on the power of the "Black" dollar. Her efforts began a 20 year relationship with Toyota that resulted in countless community partnerships. Whether working with high profile clients like Johnnie Cochran and Spike Lee or supporting nonprofit organizations like the Los Angeles NAACP and Urban League, Tobin's energy and tireless work ethic contributed greatly to the projects success. Her professional success is overshadowed only by her love and commitment to her family and the encouragement and confidence she instilled in everyone she encountered.Target Market News named Tobin a 2008 MAAX Award recipient for Public Relations Executive of the Year. The honor will be bestowed posthumously in Chicago on June 30th.In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the following: Pat Tobin Scholarship Fund or Pat Tobin Memorial Fund, 4929 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 245, Los Angeles, CA 90010. Final arrangements for Patricia L. Tobin are pending.***************(Advertisement)*********************Looking For More Exposure, Want To Help A Good Cause, Need Money???Come on over to www.freshfaces2u.com and register to win $10,000 dollars CASH!At Fresh Faces2u it's NOT about how you look...But Who You Are!Join us in our mission to change the image of women in the mediaSign Up Today At Fresh Faces2u.com**********************************This Online Journal was brought to you by InterServe Networks. Feel Free To Forward To Your Network Of Online FriendsWe Practice Responsible E-Commerce Marketing and Privacy Policies. We do not indulge in or encourage Spamming. We never send unsolicited emails. You are receiving this message as part of our opt-in subscriber mailing list or you are a member of an affiliated newsgroup.For comments or suggestions please contact us at the following;Jim Neusom (jneusom@yahoo.com)Executive Director/PublisherInterServe Networks/City Lights Software, Inc.www.citylightssoftware.comwww.freshfaces2u.comwww.myspace.com/jimneusomwww.myspace.com/freshfaces2uTo subscribe to our opt-in mailing list simply send an email to; The_City_Lights_Reporter-subscribe@yahoogroups.com ( on Myspace go to http://blog.myspace.com/jimneusom )

Traveling

Posted by Natasha Crawford on June 11, 2008 at 4:45pm

For the next three days I will be traveling to and from Newport, RI to see my niece graduate from HS. I'm leaving the driving to Greyhound, which means it'll take 5-6 hours to get there (I could be in LA by then, but I digress).I leave tomorrow morning. So here I sit, trying to decide which work items are absolutely necessary for me to take along. If my Blackberry was still in my possession (was stolen 2 weeks ago), this would be much easier.This is the first time, since starting my business, that I've had to travel for more than a day. Too many things are going on go offline for 3 days. But I want to be able to enjoy myself. This is going to be an interesting learning experience.

Stuck In The Middle

Posted by Tamora Walls on June 11, 2008 at 4:27pm

2:3 Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.I've listened to others and heard their testimonies. Funny to imagine although different we get stuck in the middle sometimes. We have the past behind us full of memories which if you're not careful can become reality again. And then we have the future surrounded by our dreams and some of those are so radical you question "have I really lost my mind"?Have you ever had a "middle experience"?Nothing is dangerously wrong, you’re still in good health and all the bills are getting paid but your life doesn't seem to be going anywhere. You know something needs to change because this place of being in the middle is not comfortable and as a child of God you know that it is not the place of "more than enough".I compare it to having your car stuck in the snow. For those of you that live in any part of the country that gets hit by monstrous winters can relate to this scenario. You’re in your car preparing to pull out of your parking space and you accelerate to more forward and go only a few inches. So, you put your car in reverse and back up a bit to give yourself some pulling out space. You put it back into drive again and accelerate only to find that you can't get over the snow. You proceed to repeat this process until you get to a place where your wheels start to spinning; you smell the scent of burning rubber and this loud screeching sound indicating that you are… "stuck".Sometimes it seems that we’re stuck in life also. You try to move forward a bit but there’s something blocking you, so you try to move back to what you used to do just a bit knowing that you don't want to go to far because some stuff in the past...needs to stay in the past. Even a little push doesn’t seem to help. You get a boost on Sunday after hearing a wonderful sermon, get some encouraging e-mails, talk with a couple friends to uplift you and you try to move forward but that thing that's blocking you is still there. And you do this over and over again until you get to a place of frustration, you know you’re stick and just spinning your wheels making the hole even deeper...trying to fix it.Don't give up but endure as a strong soldier, Jesus Christ has not left you or forsaken you. In fact, reading this blog today means His speaking to you right now and He's saying "slightly turn your wheel". When you’re stuck in the snow the best way to come out is turn your wheel enough so you won't go back into the same hole but create a new path, one that will help you get over the hump.The mistake we make is trying to turn completely around and when that doesn't work we get frustrated and we sometimes give up. Some of the habits we have require a "slight turn" just a slight change every day. Less fried foods and a little more fruits and vegetables, 10 minutes of prayer then 20, 30, 40, and then a complete hour. Even taking the time to spend 30 minutes with the family and eventually a whole weekend of quality time...just ever so slightly turn, and create a new path heading toward a bright, and prosperous future.Minister Tamora WallsWord Kingdom MinistriesDo you want to live a more meaningful and abundant life for you and your family? The newly released best selling book entitled "Thy Kingdom Come" will reveal to you just how God ordained for us to live with DOMINION, POWER AND AUTHORITY. Don't delay and get your special copy today!!! Call (773) 330-1213 or order online at www.wordkingdom.org.

It's Not Always What It Seems

Posted by Tamora Walls on June 11, 2008 at 4:26pm

Isa 55:8 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD.Things don't always turn out the way we expect them do they? At the beginning of the year we make our resolutions, set up our Franklin Planners, and revamp our lifestyles setting up for a fresh start. And with all the enthusiasm and energy we move forward in this thing called "life".Of course we never set out to fail; so we get every help book we can find, and make striding efforts to study God’s Word and even pray more knowing that these are the tools to support our road toward success.We make pretty good solid plans and things seem to be going as expected with maybe a few challenges here and there but then what you expected to happen doesn't. In fact, it kind of turns you for a loop and you ask yourself "what happened"? You ask yourself questions like, "I should be in a higher position on my job right, so...", "I thought I would be married by now, so...", "I just knew I would be married for the rest of my life, so...", "I never thought I would have to go through this, so..."...WHAT HAPPENED?"I believe the answer to these questions is..."we only see in part"! If we only look at our lives through our physical eyes then we will only see and know in part. It is only when you walk by the Spirit that you can receive a better perspective and understanding. We must look to our Father who has the WHOLE plan because our plans are limited. In our physical bodies the plans we make for ourselves keep us inside a box. A box of comfort, a box of security, a box of routine; it is a box with no possibilities except for those things inside of that box. This box never allows us to take chances and venture beyond our comfort zone or our fears. In fact, the plans we make have limited vision and will always interpret the world as being flat and it is only until we walk by faith and in the Spirit of God that we discover as we're walking that the world is round and is endless.Yes, we all have had stagnate days but what helps me along is when I think of some friends that made an aggressive move to relocate to another state for a great job opportunity which turned out not be a job of longevity but it did position them for other open door opportunities. And these opportunities have launched them into unbelievable careers. But what would have happened if they had stayed in the same place doing the same thing? Would these career opportunities have presented themselves in their old places? Or could it be that they positioned themselves by stepping out on the Spirit of God and using His vision and not their own. Could it be because of their obedience that they position themselves to experience the "under the window" overflow that God wants all of His children to encounter? And as a bonus those that are connected to them also share in the abundance of the overflow. What it really comes down to is us trusting in the one whom we confess to love and adore with our whole hearts. The blessings are ready to be released but are you ready to step out on faith and test the waters.Malachi 3:10b “I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test!

EXPECT DELAYS

Posted by Rickey on June 11, 2008 at 3:35pm

EXPECT DELAYSToday, I was traveling to my destination from home in my car. I knew the route I was to take.I travel this route 5 days a week. On the way, I saw a very large lit sign with blinking letterbig as my head ( ok maybe a little larger, the message could be seen will within 100 feet of reaching it).It flashed in big bright letters,EXPECT DELAYSThat’s it. Two words.Ok, I continued traveling , caught in my “routine” thoughts. My pace was going pretty smooth,Then, it slowed to stop. The cars in front of me had come to a stop. I came out of my “routine “ thoughts,with “ What the hay!!”. What is going on. I got things to do. Why has all these cars come to a stop?Then it hit me ( oh what thump upside the head) , the sign with two brightly lit flashing words,EXPECT DELAYSI had to laugh at my surprise and impatience. I was warned before I arrive at this point to expect delays.Realizing that , I relaxed and awaited my turn to get to place I could continue or turn off and head another direction to get to my destination.May you keep my little experience of mine in mind while you are trying to arrive at your destination.You will probably get “signs” too. One of them surly will be EXPECT DELAYSJust accept it. Realize it is part of arriving at your destination. It is normal. It is part of the journey.Just relax and if you can , enjoy, the delay. Keeping in mind your destination can still be arrived at.Yes, you will be delayed but not denied!!Stay on your path.Networkingly yours,Rickeywww.juniques.us

Are You An Empress?

Posted by Empressmag.com on June 11, 2008 at 3:27pm

Hello beautiful Empresses!If you are not already aware, www.empressmag.com and www.empress-socialclub.com is an on-line lifestyle magazine and community devoted to enriching the lives of women by delivering entertaining, relevant and thought-provoking content with a strong style and voice. Empress is not only a magazine but a movement based on the concept that empowers and improves everyday life.We would love your continued support. Please check out the following steps you can make to grow our online community!- Join Our Newsletter Mailing List (click here)-Join The Empress Social Club and network with other Empresses. If you are already a member, contribute to the community by adding blog posts, forum discussions, etc.-If you have a myspace account, face book account or your own website add our banner.(click here)-Send us info (contact, bio, any relevant info) on women , people, products that are "Empress Worthy" to be featured on our site to submissions@empressmag.com-Send a picture to submissions@empressmag.com of yourself with or without the words "Empress" or "Love, Power, Respect" in the shot so that we can add your beautiful faces to our site.-Add our website link to your blog, site, myspace page or facebook account and submit sites and companies we should partner and exchange links with to submissions@empressmag.com.- And finally tell every Empress you know about www.empressmag.com!BBWO members because of your continued support we are offering 80% off of our advertising pricing and have $5, $10 & $15 advertising available for you. Email advertising@empressmag.com for more info.

Best destinations for Firework displays

Posted by Teresa on June 11, 2008 at 2:03pm

Fourth of July Fireworks

Fireworks on the Fourth of July are as American as apple pie. But where are destinations to catch the best fireworks displays? ProfessionalTravelGuide.com has the answer.Check out their list of the best fireworks displays in the country, as well as their choices for the best accommodations in those destinations. From sea to shining sea, ProfessionalTravelGuide.com has all of your 4th of July fireworks cities covered.NEW YORK CITYThe Big Apple is a popular destination at any time of the year, but July 4th is always a special time. Barges line the East River between 23rd and 42nd streets and FDR Drive is closed for onlookers to revel in the Macy’s July 4th fireworks display. For those who want a closer view of the show, dinner cruises on the East River can’t be beat – but they do need to be booked early.Hotel RecommendationsDon’t want to leave your hotel to watch the fireworks? Then the best place to be is Millennium UN Plaza, just across from the United Nations and boasting some of the finest vantage points of New York in the city. If you’re looking to venture among the crowds, then check into the InterContinental, The Barclay, which is just a short walk from FDR Drive and the East River waterfront. .WASHINGTON, D.C.What can be more patriotic than spending Independence Day in the nation’s capitol? There are plenty of vantage points around the National Mall to take in one of the most captivating displays in the country. During the day, take in the parade along Constitution Avenue.Hotel RecommendationsThere are two places to best view the fireworks along the National Mall – at the steps of the U.S. Capitol and at the Lincoln Memorial. If you’re looking to stay near the Capitol, then head to the Washington Court Hotel on Capitol Hill, a property that is a leader for those in-the-know in D.C. At the other end of the Mall, stay at the Mandarin Oriental, Washington D.C. While a little further from the action than other hotels, this five-star property is on the Potomac River and you can head north to the Lincoln Memorial. If you choose to stay away from the throngs on the Mall, take a short walk and view the fireworks from the Jefferson Memorial.Las VegasWhile there is no true organized Fourth of July celebration in the city, casinos along the Las Vegas Strip each put on their own shows and events during the holiday. From special concerts to all-night dance clubs, there isn’t a hotter place to be or be seen. And at night, the Strip lights up as fireworks are shot from each of the casinos. Whether you’re in your hotel room or on the Strip, you can’t miss the action from anywhere.Hotel RecommendationsWhere can’t you view the fireworks? But for the best vantage points, head to the highest peaks in the city. That means the Eiffel Tower deck at Paris Las Vegas in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. If you want to view everything from afar, head to the far north end of the Strip to Stratosphere Hotel and Casino and head to the 1,200-foot high observation deck. If your plan is to party, then the best place for viewing and dancing is Ghostbar at Palms Casino Resort.BostonAn event not to be missed is the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular, held on the banks of the Charles River. The two-hour concert preceding the fireworks display is an event unto itself, but then you add fireworks to the mix and it becomes an all-out celebration of America. While you can view the fireworks from most anywhere in the city, the Esplanade is the place to be.Hotel RecommendationsThere are a few truly grand hotels within walking distance to the Esplanade, the most luxurious being the Four Seasons Hotel Boston and the Taj Boston near the Public Garden and Boston Common. But for a truly unique and (dare we say) value hotel experience, check out the Beacon Hill Hotel and Bistro on Charles Street. This boutique hotel is just three blocks from the festivities.PhiladelphiaIndependence Day is so big in the City of Brotherly Love that the city takes an entire week to celebrate. There are festivals and concerts in the days leading up to the Fourth of July, with the traditional fireworks display taking place at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. A definite must-do is the city’s Fourth of July Parade along Benjamin Franklin Parkway.Hotel RecommendationsThe place to stay during the Fourth of July holiday is the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia, one of the city’s lone five-star hotels. Why stay here? It is nearby all of the activity, just a short trip from the Philadelphia Museum of Art. And it also boasts one of the city’s most complete spas.St. LouisAnother all-day festival, the Fair Saint Louis/Celebrate St. Louis Fourth of July event is one of the largest in the Midwest. With a backdrop encompassing the Mississippi River and the famed Gateway Arch, these fireworks are some of the best in the country. And St. Louis doesn’t stop the party after July 4th – the great LIVE on the Levee series, complete with free music and fireworks, continues through July and August.Hotel RecommendationsThe top two hotels nearby should vie for your attention while attending St. Louis’ Independence Day events. The Hyatt Regency St. Louis, which occupies a 19th century rail terminal, is one of the leading hotels in the city. The Westin St. Louis is another top-notch hotel property and is one of the most talked-about hotels in the city.New OrleansThis southern city continues its comeback, and the Go 4th on the River celebration is just another reason to make your way back to New Orleans. Dueling barges shoot off fireworks on the Mississippi River while visitors watch from numerous spots, the most popular being the Riverwalk Marketplace.Hotel RecommendationsFor the best viewing, you’ll want to stay by the river, which offers such luxury accommodations as the Westin New Orleans Canal Place and the Hilton New Orleans Riverside. For those looking for value (and maybe a slot machine or two), check out Harrah’s New Orleans Casino, which opened its own 26-story hotel in 2007.HoustonEverything’s bigger in Texas, and the Fourth of July is no exception. Featuring the largest land-based fireworks display in the United States, Houston’s Independence Day celebration is as big as they come. More than 100,000 people crowd Eleanor Tinsley Park along the Buffalo Bayou outside of downtown Houston to watch the fireworks and listen to more than four hours of live entertainment.Hotel RecommendationsThere aren’t any hotels within walking distance to the festivities, so you’re going to have to venture into the downtown Houston area to stay. That’s not a bad thing, though, considering the numerous choices available. While luxury accommodations exist at some top-notch hotels, including the always luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Houston and the sophisticated Hotel Icon, you may also want to check out the Doubletree Hotel Houston Downtown for a good value pick.

Bartering - can it work for you?

Posted by Christine on June 11, 2008 at 1:30pm

I was reading the newspaper the other day (in between wiping down my little'uns with a cool washcloth and supplying paper and crayons) and came across this article on bartering. I have referenced the link at the bottom of the blog post. Basically the article outlines how the depressed economy and rising unemployment are causing people to exchange services rather than services for cash. At worst, there is an ad on Craiglist where a man writes he will paint for groceries, and that many business participate in a formal services exchange program.Have you ever bartered for services? As long as both parties are in agreement about the value of the services exchanged, then bartering can be beneficial for all involved. For those of us involved in the Buy Black Collective, this is something to think about!Here is the link for the article: http://www.mycentraljersey.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008806100341Please post any comments you may have!CeeCee

Thank You!

Posted by candacem907-Ms.MilanMinerals on June 11, 2008 at 6:30am

I just wanted to say that there are SO many talented business women on this board and it makes me really proud! I don't know about everyone else, but in my "world" I only know two other ladies in business for themselves. So often the things we go through or are trying to make happen as entrepreneurs, you have no one to brainstorm with or just simply understand what you're up to and how your feeling etc. So I feel beyond blessed to have found such a wonderful group of women.Though I must say it seems like I may be spending everything I make shopping with all of you ladies. Have a great week....I'm off to find a ladies page that had beautiful handcrafted earrings......was it YOU? Let me know!,Candace

Great Week so far...

Posted by Nirvana - Pure Romance on June 11, 2008 at 3:52am

This week has been really good so far, despite the HORRIBLE heat we have to deal with...I am NOT a summer person although I was born in August...go figure! :o)1. Sunday night, I was on meetup.com RSVPing to some upcoming events for the groups that I belong to and all of sudden it occured to me that I should have group! So I decided to set one up for 6 months, just to try a new and different way of targeting clients. I requested that I am listed under "Shopping" and described that the meet-ups happpen at my group members request!! I can't believe I had not thought of this before...in less than 24 hours I booked 3 additional parties from people who received the email blast from meetup.com and I now have parties booked into OCTOBER!! My calendar isn't competely full...but it's getting there!2. Monday, a hostess of one of my recent parties, contacted me and expressed and interest in starting her own Pure Romance business...she's signing up on Friday! My little team will now be a strong group of 5 :o) We are growing slowly, but I prefer quality over quantity!3. I also have made the decision to return to work full-time (for someone other than myself), although I love doing Pure Romance and will always continue to do so... I'm ready to return to non-profit program work. I love non-profit and I always hated that I let someone get to me to the point that I left a job that I really enjoyed doing...so now begins yet another task...my new job search!! I'm excited and interested to see what new possibilities will be out there!

Zanira's Word of the Day - WILLINGNESS

Posted by Zanira Al-Amin on June 11, 2008 at 2:00am

MOTIVATIONAL WORD OF THE DAY - WILLINGNESSDefinition: Not choosing to refuse, complying, voluntary choice, not adverse, favorably disposed.Action: This word is a reminder that you always have the power of choice in all situations. You can choose the attitude with which you will go through the situation. What are you willing to do to create PEACE in your life? Sometimes it takes more courage and willingness to say “No” than to just go along and not rock the boat.Go within. Connect with your higher self. A good time to make a strong positive effort. Go the extra distance in situations that really matter to you. Do the work that is needed to attain your desired outcome.Use your will in a favorable way with integrity.Zanira Says SMILE

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Note: this page contains paid content.