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The Labor Was Hard, But I Finally Gave Birth

Posted by Pastor Aminata on September 17, 2008 at 4:05pm

When I realized that I was pregnant, I thought to myself, oh no, not me, and in my old age. God you can't be serious? Like Sara, of the Old Testament I was pregnant indeed. As in any pregnancy, you become more and more anxious as you get closer to you due date, but the thing with me was I didin't know my due date. I was pregnant for 5years, and I wondered if I set some sort of record for the longest pregnancy ever.After being pregnant for so long, you begin to think you're never gonna give birth, I carried this baby within, praying and asking God when, and how long am I to be like this.... then one day..... the Lord spoke and said, "Shut off all connections...." Now I didn't know why, but I was clear on what I was to do and so I did it. But that didn't stop drama from wrecking havoc in my life, but God was with me all the way. What I didn't know then but do know now, is that I was in labor. I was in labor for 5 weeks and finally I gave birth....I am inviting all my friends to come join me and celebrate the new arrival: http://w4utv.flux.com

What is a good man

Posted by Ladyjd721 on September 17, 2008 at 4:05pm

WHATIS A GOOD MAN?Too many people just assume that they know what a “good man” is. Because a man or an organization builds hospitals, schools, an orphanage, an old-folks home, gives to medical research, to needy relatives, to charities, or because he is pleasant, honest, kind, loyal, refined, cheerful, honorable, or possesses those qualities which endears him to his neighbor, he is called “good,” a “good man.” I repeat, people assume that a “good man” is defined in this manner, but rarely do people critically examine the assumption to discover whether a “good man” may actually be what he is generally accepted to be.The thinking on the “good man” has simply ignored Christianity and naturallyOrthodoxy which is true Christianity. Christian experience, dogma, doctrine,canon law, are casually excluded as something personal and having little to dowith the essential character of a “good man.” The Church is “what you make it” and very few people would include in their definition of a “good man” his religion. Surely, he is expected to have one and must live up to it, but as such, it is secondary in the analysis. Of course, he must believe in God , but “each in his own way and each in his own words.”Now, can these ideas about the “good man” be reconciled with the ChristianTruth? Is a “good man” to be identified with the common conception of him? Is a “good man,” as is ordinarily believed, a man who does “good,” “good” as we usually think of it? Is the belief, any belief in God, sufficient to make a man “good?” What is the source of our opinions concerning the “good man?” Are they from God or men? Are the ideas that most of us hold on this matter given by our environment or are they the revelation of God? In any case, let us see what the Church has to say about the “good man.”The Church teaches that three things are required for a man to be “good”: 1)conversion 2) grace 3) faith. Conversion means repentance. Conversion necessarily requires faith, the right faith, the faith given, revealed, disclosed in Christ Jesus. A man must be converted to be “good.” He must be changed from a son of Adam to a son of God by grace. He must be “born again”, renewed, made a “new creature” in Christ. The result is a new mentality, a “change of mind,” a new attitude and approach to all things. This is accomplished primarily by the Sacraments, especially, the Holy Eucharist, which give grace.“But God, Who is rich in mercy, out of the great love with which Heloved us, even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ, and raised us up with Him, and made us sit with Him in heavenly places in Christ Jesus”. It is grace, an energy of God, a gift, an undeserved favor, divine and activating, which converts us, which makes us

Being Oprah Winfrey

Posted by Donna Maria Coles Johnson on September 17, 2008 at 4:00pm

Love Her or Hate Her, What You Can Learn From Her Journey

Once upon a time, as a small child growing up in the south, Oprah Winfrey had few financial resources. But that was then. Today, she is one of the world’s wealthiest people. This wealth extends far beyond her bank account, for Oprah seems decidedly rich not only in a financial sense but also in terms of her life. So many people love Oprah. So many people hate Oprah.

Oprah

Whether you're on one side of the fence or another, or are straddling it, if you're Indie, you can learn a lot about business by studying Oprah's career choices. This post outlines the three main things Oprah has done to create a lasting empire -- things Indies can do to manage and sustain our own piece of the American dream.

1. Oprah Owns Her Business and Herself

Earlier this year, Oprah and Discovery Communications announced the Oprah Winfrey Network, or OWN, a multi-media platform joint venture. If all goes according to plan, OWN will launch Oprah into the next phase of her career. The name OWN is no accident of course, and the concept of brand ownership runs deep with Oprah.

When she was hired as the host of AM Chicago in 1984, it was hard to imagine Oprah owning anything, at least if you compared her with the people in America who owned most everything at that time. She grew up poor. She was a brown skinned black American. She was overweight and short. He hair was a little out of control, her lips were beautifully full and her nose was distinctively wide.

By typical American standards, she possessed little outward beauty. But she had an ability to attract women from all walks of life to her talk show, which beat out the Phil Donohue Show within months of its debut. In 1985, when we saw her in The Color Purple, we knew there was something special there. And Oprah knew it too. From the very beginning, she set out to create an empire. And today, she owns all of it.

Oprah owns a variety of profitable ventures. With Hearst Magazines, she launched O, The Oprah Magazine in 2000. Today, the publication boasts a circulation of 2.3 million monthly readers and an advertiser base that most publishers can only dream of. The Oprah Winfrey Show airs in 134 countries and is seen by an estimated 46 million US viewers a week.

Her new series of church-like online seminars and discussion groups, based in large part on one of her Oprah's Book Club choices, has drawn both praise and criticism. Either way, there's no denying that Oprah is a master at using technology to spread her message far and wide.

Unlike many other well-known entrepreneurs, Oprah is not for hire. While people like Paula Deen and B.Smith, popular cooking and lifestyle hosts, attach their names to brands like Bed, Bath & Beyond (Smith) and Smithfield (Deen), the only way you’ll find Oprah’s name on someone else’s product is if she just purchased it or if her name is being used without her permission.

Oprah owns her business and the many brands associated with it in every imaginable sense of the world. There are investors. No multi-million dollar bank loans. No favors. It's all hers. Oprah owns her own brand and maintains tight control over every aspect of them. Do the same in your Indie Business to enjoy maximum profits, flexibility and opportunities.

2. Oprah Knows Her Value

Oprah exerts tremendous control over everything she touches because she knows her value. When her name is associated with something, she wants it to be “just so,” and she wants to profit from it at least as much as everyone else involved. Oprah seems to have understood early on that she had a personality and other assets that would draw people to her in droves. She knew that, if she could draw people, she could also draw advertising dollars. And she knew that if she could draw advertising dollars, she could become a very wealthy woman, and use that wealth to duplicate herself, and make even more money. Hence, her syndicated television show, the “after the show” show, the magazine, the book club, the retail store, the Angel Network, the website chat rooms and the Oprah & Friends satellite radio show.

Oprah seems to have decided that she is not for sale to the highest bidder. Instead, she creates all the outlets she needs to be profitable, and essentially bids against herself. Oprah has created a brand. Not only that, Oprah is the brand. She draws so many people that she does not have to settle for a salary. She knows what she’s worth and she has structured her business ventures so that she can command what she’s worth in whatever situation she finds herself.

Oprah knows her value and every business decision she makes seems to be focused on earning a return on that value. No matter what you sell – be it product or service – acknowledge the value of yourself as nothing less than your businesses’ greatest asset, and seek out and create new and innovative ways to command and keep more of the money you make. Oprah knows her value and she capitalizes on it every chance she gets.

3. Oprah Shares Her Blessings

Oprah says that she knows what it’s like to be poor. By all accounts, that is true. But she is a long way from that these days. Still, Oprah finds inventive ways to use her wealth to make positive contributions to the world. A few years ago, just a few days after launching a child predator campaign on her show, two of the profiled child predators were captured after being recognized by her show viewers. Oprah then offered $100,000 to anyone who provided information leading to the arrest of any of the predators on her list.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, Oprah committed $10 million dollars to launch Angel Lane, an Angel Lane, an online gift registry where site visitors buy everything from a picture frame to a house to help hurricane survivors. Oprah’s Angel Network has raised several million dollars to establish scholarships and schools, support women's shelters and build youth centers. The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in Johannesburg, South Africa, which opened last year, is playing a vital role in the shaping of the next generation of woman leaders from southern Africa.

Earlier this year, Forbes Magazine estimated Oprah's net worth at $2.5 billion. At this rate, she is poised to become one of the most prolific philanthropists in the history of the world. And perhaps this is the best way to conclude this post. With a reminder that sharing our blessings with others is something all of us can do.

Oprah works with what she has. She has always done that, even when she was an overweight talk show host who couldn't stop talking about how Steadman wouldn't marry her. Oprah is a planter. She plants seeds, sows them and reaps a harvest that benefits millions of people. Do what you can with what you have to achieve the same results on a scale that appropriately reflects your resources, your business and your own life missions.

What do you think?

In my experience, business success boils down to these three things: (1) own it; (2) value it; and (3) share it. If you embrace those three concepts in business, you can't go wrong. Is that your experience? I'd love to hear if your journey is consistent with them, and whether you have anything to add based on your own experience.

You can read Oprah Winfrey's official bio here. The information in this post is widely available through public records, but I found many of the details at Oprah.com. I hope she doesn't find it and unleash her legal staff on me to take it down.

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Get in the Spotlight & Women's Writing Event

Posted by Dominique on September 17, 2008 at 1:27pm

Have you left your comments to this week's Get in the Spotlight statement? The question is: "How much schooling do you think a writer needs to become a best seller?" Answer it here: http://fromawriterspov.webs.com/fromawriterspov.htmANDFrom A Writers POV is looking for women of all ages to empower other women. We are allowing 4 women writers to submit poems, short stories or just your flow of thoughts on empowering another woman. Submit what you would want to say to encourage another women.If your interested, get more details here: http://fromawriterspov.webs.com/fromawriterspov.htmWe look forward to seeing you there!Thanks, Dominique

Obama, McCain, and flip-flops

Posted by Wyteria Jacobo on September 17, 2008 at 4:29am

I did a few google searches today on both of the presidential candidates just to humor myself. My few seconds' worth of research revealed that both sides face accusations of being "flip-flops." One site I ran across even proclaimed itself to be the "master list of flip-flops committed by McCain." Anyway, all this talk about flip-flops got me thinking about the original flip-flops. You know, the kind you wear on your feet?It seems that corporate's perception of flip-flops has changed over the years. What was once seen as a business attire faux pas is now a welcome advertising vehicle at meetings, cruises, beach incentive packages, employee vacations, and award galas. Why did corporate change its mind? Two reasons. First, the company logo can be placed on the bottom of the sandal, turning it into a "talking" footprint. Second, employees and other recipients will take the footwear home where they will continue to wear it to the grocery store, picnics and other places. Remember, home is one of the places where buying decisions are made so an investment in custom sandals would be an investment well spent. Consider just two case histories supporting this fact.A major cosmetics firm brainstormed ways to advertise a new shower gel to the college crowd. They handed out a special pair of flip-flops at major US college campuses along with their new product carrying the following tagline: "Save Water - Shower with a Friend."A major U.S. financial institution participates in various charity runs across the country during the summer. They used branded footwear to increase brand awareness and support their sponsorship.Other organizations could benefit from this kind of exposure. Imagine the possibilities! A political candidate could print a picture of his or her opponent on a pair of flip-flops and hand them out during political rallies. A slogan might be, "We don't flip-flop like those other guys." Or a vacation club could send it to their clients to motivate them to make travel reservations. Sales managers could inspire their sales teams to qualify for trips with custom sandals using a slogan like, "Just think. In a few weeks, you could be wearing one of these."Could your firm use more exposure? Sure it could! The solution may be just a footprint away.

TRUSTING GOD

Posted by GWENTORRES on September 17, 2008 at 1:07am

Whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy (James1:2, NLT).Dear friends:Frankly, I do not like adversity, and probably no one does. Yet whenadversities come, we can always count on God to see us through them andbless us from them.When I read Job I get blessed. God allowed Job to go through incredibletragedy and heartache. Think of the millions of people who benefit fromJob's testimony.Job said, "Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him" (13:15, KJV).That kind of radical trust pleases the Lord. While we may not lookforward to adversity, we know when we get through it we will be a betterservant for the Lord.Many people are shining examples of this. For example, I remember awoman who lost her son in a tragic accident, and her husband was veryill. Then one of her sweet, loving sons, raised in the church, announcedthat he was a homosexual. It went on and on, one problem after another.But when I heard her speak, she spoke with joy, thanksgiving and praiseto God. There were many people in that audience who were having problemsof their own who heard her and were blessed and encouraged by her trustin God.Trusting God, Job went through his problems, and came out the otherside. We can always count on God to see us through to the other side. Wecannot see the other side with our physical eyes, but we can see it withour spiritual eyes -- with the eye of faith. "The just shall live byfaith" (Romans 1:17, KJV).As with Job, God allows us to be tested, although He is not the authorof evil, which is Satan's job description. When trials come our way, asthey do in a fallen world, let us echo Peter: "In this you greatlyrejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer griefin all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith -- of greaterworth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire -- may beproved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when JesusChrist is revealed" (1 Peter 1:6-7, NIV).By the way, a possible key as to why Job suffered is in his ownconfession: "What I feared has come upon me" (3:25). Fear, which is theopposite of faith, can produce a spiritual condition which Satan,through adversity, can see as an invitation to visit. Let us not befearful, but faithful.Yours for fulfilling the Great Commission each year until our Lordreturns,

Meet Grammy Award Winning Songwriter; PJ Morton & Artist Nikki Ross

Posted by Sharvette, Radio Host on September 16, 2008 at 11:15pm

How I Make Money Online

Posted by LaShanda Henry on September 16, 2008 at 7:30pm

LaShanda Henry - Work at Home Mom - Creator of SistaSense, Black Business Women Online and Multiple Shades of You Online

Working Girl to Work At Home Mom, this is my story.... Everybody wants to make money online, and so I am happy to share how I am doing just that! I decided to create this post for those of you who are curious about how to make money online or are skeptical about how one can REALLY do it. Now I am not a six-figure sister YET, but by making the most of my skills and diversifying my streams of income I have been able to successfully work from home, pay my bills, and meet my family’s needs. My story is a common one I think because like many web entrepreneurs, my online gig started off as a hobby turned into a side hustle and now a work at home business. I want to start off by saying that I am only one of many web entrepreneurs out there, so I can tell you that there are a million and one business ventures that you can tap into online. As for me, I've successfully made money online from the following: 1. Developing Websites If you have a skill that you can offer to others online, monetize it. Though I am currently not working on any new sites, I have sold a number of web services like web design and blog design. Right now my web services are limited to banner design and urban marketing for web entrepreneurs. I've learned how to turn my design skills into an online business and this is something that you can do too. You don't have to be a web designer, there are lots of ways to turn a skill into web profit. Exploring your skill set and learning how to turn it into an income is something that I talk about in my web coaching program for entrepreneurs. 2. I make money online through affiliate programs. I actually did an audio postcast on 'How I pay my Rent with Google Adsense Revenue' . I also generate an additional $200 - $500 a month from other affiliate programs that I work with. Some solicited me with their service and others are from niche specific sites that I incorporate into my webpages and blogs. I know that most entrepreneurs don't have much luck with affiliate programs, but it's not because they don't work and it's not about luck. Generating money from affiliate programs requires more than just cutting and pasting links onto your site. It's really a matter of knowing how to use them. I have several techniques that have worked for me, which I am now teaching to others. 3. Selling Ad Space On the topic of affiliate sales, I also make money by selling ad space on my sites. I find that there are so many website owners who have decent traffic and no income, because they don't know how to turn their clicks into cash. There are tons of ways to not only self promote on your site, but use it as a marketing tool for others. I actually have a simple guide on setting up and selling ad space on your website, if this is something you would like to do. 4. Having a blog is an integral part of my online success. My blogs serve as free promotion and also spaces to house affiliate program links as well as informative posts that keep readers interested in what I do. Blogging really does bring in the bucks. Whether I am sharing an informative post, which brings in new readers or posting about my business to bring in more customers, I am always finding new ways to tap into the promotional and profit potential of my blog. And yes, I've got more than one blog, on various niche topics. Creating niche specific blogs, like my SistaSense Busines Blog, has helped me to increase my visibility by appealing to different target audiences. Niche Marketing is something that I talk about all the time because it really works. You have to learn how to make your own market if you want to make money online. And you also need to know about the types of web tools that can help your blog or business grow. 5. I sell eBooks. Information is gold online. If you know how to do something that is in demand by others in your field you can capitalize on that by creating information tools like eBooks, online courses, teleseminars, and more. Of course, it helps your sales if you have an audience who wants to buy. I've created my own networks and shared my tips on creating social networks, because these are the spaces that have helped me increase my online exposure and sales. These are my most profitable means of making money online with a few others that I have up my sleeve. To learn more about making money online join my web coaching program. My goal is to show other aspiring entrepreneurs that it's possible to make money online if you learn how it can be done. Originally posted on the SistaSense Blog. Posted by: LHenry creator of the SistaSense eBussines Blog, a series of Web Business Howto Guides, BBWO Network for Professional Black Women and the Web Newbie Know How Coaching Program.

Women of Color Coach Membership $29.99 Special

Why G'Natural Herbal Healing Hair Care MUST Be Important To Us!

Posted by DH Harvey on September 16, 2008 at 6:30pm

G'Natural is all about US! Yes-men, women, and children of color! People of color-especially we sistahs-use more hair care than ANY segment of human society! Why? As Tyra Banks would say..."We gotta be lookin' FIERCE!" Isn't THAT the truth sistahs? No matter where we go, who we're with, or what we're doing, our hair, skin, nails etc must be top notch! Now, I agree with you that there are a TON of products available-even products produced by blacks but G'Natural stands out! How? Mr. Roger Gore the President & CEO of G'Natural is the black MALE version of Madame CJ Walker-wow, they even share the same birthday! (smile) Mr.Gore lost hair in the front of his head and searched far and wide for herbal healing hair care to restore it but found nothing that really worked. No, not even black owned companies had what he needed! So guess what? Like Madame Walker he created the solutions he was looking for! He's been the hairstylist of choice for many african american stars of the stage, TV, screen, politics, music etc..and he like other product creators and manufacturers can sell his wares in beauty supply chains, retail stores, and of course the internet and keep ALL the money in his pocket! Does he do that? No! He wants to share the wealth with US instead! This is exactly what he's done in creating G'Natural Herbal Products-the Direct Selling Online Beauty Supply Superstore! Each Distributor like me has his/her own online beauty supply store where you can easily order all of your herbal healing hair and body care with a click of the mouse and put money back into the black community and help US instead of "them" get rich! Mr. Gore stands behind each and every product-after all, he made them-and he will never put a product out there to sell that doesn't work! So, be our guest and order G'Natural today at: http://www.gnaturalherbalproducts.com/nycgirl and experience the difference for yourself! Can you use some extra $$$? Join us right now as a Distributor for just $29.99! See also: http://www.blacklinenow.us for more information.

What Is Relationship Empowerment Coaching?

Posted by Shelby on September 16, 2008 at 6:00pm

Many of you have asked… Shelby…What’s Relationship Coaching? To those folks, on a One-on-One basis, I’ve explained to them what it is that I do exactly as a Relationship Empowerment Coach. Fortunately, I have had many Complimentary Coaching sessions with several members of this group and several other groups. These Complimentary coaching sessions have provided us the luxury of connecting and enabled them to learning more about Relationship Coaching and how they can benefit from it. Often the value of Relationship Coaching is realized and, those Complimentary sessions have converted into clients.What is Relationship Empowerment Coaching? It is a valuable professional client-focused service where an individual or couple who are healthy, willing, and capable of achieving relationship goals with strong support, beneficial information, and direction. Relationship Coaching is the new and most impactful way of attracting healthy relationships, both personal and professional, i.e., from marriage to working with the boss, from dating to developing your inner self. It’s the best way to making your life and relationships better. Keep in mind one of the biggest hurdles in relationships is sustaining commitment and establishing trust without losing your own identity or sacrificing Your personal goals and aspirations. Those hurdles don’t exist today! They are all possible to overcome with Relationship Empowerment Coaching!To learn more about the benefits of Coaching and to determine if Coaching is for you, schedule a Confidential Complimentary Coaching Session with Shelby Hill at shelbyhill@shelbymhill.comToday! You’ll be happy you did.Sincerely,Shelby HillRelationship Empowerment Coach

Eczema-Healing the Itch

Posted by Kenyatta Dudley on September 16, 2008 at 5:18pm

Many people suffer from dry skin, acne, blemishes and all kind of skin problems. However, I most often times than none come into contact with people who suffer from eczema. In fact, with two girls with the disorder, I have a first hand experience of how it can affect the skin. The itching and scratching. The sores. The misery. The confusion coming from having to find the perfect lotion, creme or salve. Yes, they all promise to "Stop the Itch", "Treat" or "Soothe" your eczema woes. So, we try them. At any cost, we purchase with our hopes high that this one product will finally become the answer. Yes, tonight will be the night that you finally sleep without waking to the dreaded "dry patch".Well, the next day comes and the bags under your eyes let you know that the "miracle" product did not work! So what now? Should you go back to using Vaseline? Crisco? Royal Crown Hair Grease? At this point, we are willing to try anything. But, herein lies the problem- we should not settle for anything! We should want the best and most natural product that ingredients proven to nourish and heal with care.Are you looking for a natural product that will give you what you are looking for in an eczema product? Well, look no further. Mahogany Soul Skin has heard your plea and developed a complete line especially for eczema. Yes, the Natural Healing Mahogany line is complete with soap, oil moisturizers and creme that will embrace your skin and give you the healing, smooth, nourished skin that you are seeking.So, ditch those steroid crèmes and lotions that don't work and Embrace the Essence of you with the new Natural Healing Mahogany line for Eczema. Coming Soon!www.mahoganysoulskin.com

The Color Purple

Posted by TurquoizBlue on September 16, 2008 at 4:30pm

Sista, you've been on my mind . . . Okay not The Color Purple movie, I just love that song. This is about the COLOR purple. Purple is the color for fall. It's the new "black." It's the new "brown." It's the foundation color around which the fall wardrobe is being built.

The darker hues such as mulberry, magenta, eggplant, burgundy and dark violet are all prominent in fall fashions. Mix them with black or brown components like in the new Max Studio collection.

Nails continue to be dark, but there are lighter colors in the purple family. OPI's Couture Couleur La Collection de France features colors like the eggplant "Yes I Can-Can" and the wine "Eiffel for this Color." Lovely purple colors inspired by France.

For the brave and daring, go dark with the lipstick too.

by TurquoizBlue http://turquoizblue,blogspot.com

Redefining PINK

Posted by Kamilah Campbell on September 16, 2008 at 4:19pm

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It’s finally here. The long awaited promotional video showcasing The Pink Locket’s most exclusive pieces. Here at The Pink Locket we are on a mission to redefine the meaning behind the work PINK. After all the color can mean so many things. Turn up your speakers and enjoy the video!By: Kamilah C.The Pink Lockethttp://thepinklocket.com

My Voice, My Vote, My Reality!

Posted by Pastor Aminata on September 16, 2008 at 11:44am

All across the country, tension is filling the air as we approach "the day of reckoning" the day when each of us are to cast our vote for the candidate who we feel will represent our needs. Relationships are being strained in ways like never before because of the historic nature of this event. We have a Black man, running for President, and we have a White woman running for Vice President. Oh, what to do, what to do, what to do.But you know what the really sad part is? There are still so many Christians, saints, children of the Most High God who feel that politics is something left to other people. What's that old saying, politics and religion don't mix? Many will not even have an open debate about who's telling the truth or who's not telling the truth for fear of some other person disagreeing with them. Too many Christians want to act like God's gonna take care of it all. Yes God will, but that don't let you or I off the hook.The powers that be count on this type of ignorance.... naw... this ain't ignorance, because ignorance is not knowing any better, this is just plain stupid. If the truth be told, everything is about politics and politics is about power and control.Now your vote says, I need to choose the person who will represent my needs, advocate on my behalf, a person who understands my reality. Most of the time, it's not the politician who shows up at your church with your skinning and grinning Pastor for a photo opt, to be placed on the wall in the Pastor's office. These political mongels expect to receive endorsements of the entire congregation for a mere photo opportunity, what a shame! Because most of the time, they get it.Emotions is the key. We are stroked, and stroked some more, played like strings on a violin, that's because if the truth be told, the political spin doctors don't think we have the political savvy to comprehend all the nonsense, lies, garbage and trash feed to us on a regular. Racism is at it's all time high and I wonder are we paying attention? This election is not only about winning, it also about making sure that a Black Man don't get to sleep in the White House, it's about using all the tactics that they can muster up for fear of being led by a Black Man.Now you may not say it out loud, but God gave me a voice to be heard, so this is my take on the matter. So you may wonder, am I gonna vote for Barack Obama because he's a black man? Absolutely. Just because he's a Black man? No. Because he's a Black man who understands my voice, who understands my plight, who understands my reality, better than any other person in this race. I believe He will champion the cause of me and others who's voice has been silenced by the greed and power hunger politicans that has raped our country over the last 8 years.It's my voice, it's my vote, it's my reality.

www.colormedirect.com/beautymatters

Posted by Michelle Johnson-Jones on September 16, 2008 at 5:49am

I edited my profile at Freeweblayouts.net, check out these Myspace Layouts!

Don't confuse potential clients

Posted by Christine on September 16, 2008 at 2:42am

As all of you well know, here on BBWO, you can receive a lot of mail from other members here. Think about what kind of mail you're sending. Is it the kind of correspondence that brands you in your field, or do you allow personal feelings and political leanings to guide the type of correspondence you send out?I wrote a brief article about my uses of Twitter (you can read it here) and one of these tips was not to get embroiled in political or social debate. I am not on this board, or any other, to inform you, my womenpreneur colleagues, about my feelings about Sen. Obama, Sen. McCain, Gov. Palin or Sen. Biden. Honestly, why would you care? All you care about, if you're interested, is whether my megamix whip really works on problem dry skin!I've also seen "debates" on Twitter degenerate into nothing but a name-calling contest and "jokes" about the people running for office. What is the point about us debating about social and poltiica issues? If you have a strong belief and I have a strong belief, it is doubtful that a few words back and forth or a blog post is going to change our minds. What's more, my strong belief in whatever, may offend you and cause me to lose you as a client or potential client.So, before you send that email blast about the evils of the Bush administration, the underhanded-ness of Sen. McCain or proof positive that Sen. Obama is a closet Black Panther and a Muslim to boot, please, think about the perception that you (as a representative of your business) may be putting forth. Is it the image/impression you want to leave? If so, please, do continue with your process. If not, think about the impression that you want to put forth, and go about creating that "brand" and promoting your business.

Big Gyrl of the Month October

Posted by Lipstick Killers Collection on September 15, 2008 at 10:49pm

Good evening from BGC,Don’t forget to enter the Big Gyrl of the Month Contest. We have some fierce competition but we still need more entries to keep it going! So if you think you have what it takes to be crowned the fashion queen of the urban plus women of the world, then send us a full body or ¾ length body picture to biggyrlclothing@yahoo.com ASAP.As always, if you do not win, do not get discouraged. Your picture is considered every month until you win!As BGOTM you win a free gift with a value of $25, free shipping for the month, international exposure as a BGC Model, and calendar placement. Please ladies, be serious in your entry and respond to all emails giving instructions.Deadline: September 30th, 2008 1159pm ESTEvent Update!Diva Jada VegasPlus size Flea Market & Fashion ShowSeptember 27, 2008 11a-7pmStaten Island, NYDivas in the Fall Fashion ShowOctober 4, 2008 3-5pmVidells Day Spa Trolley Sq 33B Wilmington, DEBig&Beautiful Fashion ShowOctover 26, 2008Location TBA Orlando, FL~ Enter the photo contest for a cash prize of $500, flyer is attached to the email!Stay beautiful and blessed,Syreeta Rios, CEO Big Gyrl Clothing, Inc.Fashion for the Urban Plus Womanwww.biggyrlclothing.net

Wedding Drama Pt. 1

Posted by Michaela on September 15, 2008 at 9:21pm

Can I vent here with my fellow sista's???So it's 5 days before the wedding and I find out that my sister (and her husband) and my Aunt, who also happens to be my Godmother, will not be attending my wedding.NO I am not Joking... I have been slaving over planning a wedding far in advance for these "folks" to find a sitter for my special day and no one has found a sitter yet. I know at first everyone was pissed because I wanted a "adult" only reception. Does anyone find this offensive?? I don't, especially considering the "Be-Be" kids that would have been in attendance. I would prefer to not have to deal with the agravation of these kids running around acting up on my day. Personally, when I am invited to a wedding, I would prefer not to bring my child, because I like to enjoy myself at the ceremony and reception.The second problem they are having with my wedding is that it happens to be 45 minutes from my hometown and everyone wants me to getting married in the church I was raised in. Well, I don't mean to sound like a brat, but I always envisioned myself walking down a center aisle, and my "home" church does not have that. Besides, I have been attending this new church for over a year and I really love it. I would love to start my new life with my soul mate in "OUR" church, not "my" church. Am I wrong???Ahhh... so the husband to be is home.. I am sure I will be venting in the near future... hopefully everyone else attends so I don't have to (as my mom would say) BLESS someone out!{I labeled it part 1 because I know there is more to come}

Getting to Know You: 10 Interesting Things About the Handcrafted Soapmakers Guild

Posted by Donna Maria Coles Johnson on September 15, 2008 at 6:27pm

Last week, I accepted an invitation to speak at the Handcrafted Soapmakers Guild's 2009 Annual Conference of Handcrafted Soapmakers at the Miramonte Resort and Spa in Palm Springs, California. I am honored and excited, not only because my topic is "Become the News You Want to Be," but also because I get to work with my photographer/videographer husband and co-business and home leader to create another fantastic promotional video for the organization. Here's the one we did earlier this year at their conference in Vermont.

The Soap Guild is an institution in the world of soapmaking. Everyone who makes soap should be a part of the Soap Guild. The people are warm, smart and fun. You'll learn a lot and you'll have a great time growing your business around like-minded people who understand how exciting it is to stand over a pot of water, oil and lye, and watch them slowly transform into a household product that you can use yourself, give away as gifts or even better, sell at a profit. Today, I want you to get to know the Handcrafted Soapmakers Guild.

10 Interesting Things About the Handcrafted Soapmakers Guild

1. The Soap Guild Was Founded by Barbara Bobo.

Barbara Bobo was the first (and one of the only) handmade soapmaker to be featured in the pages of Martha Stewart Living Magazine. As the owner of Woodspirits, one of the nation's first soapers to have soaps in stores nationwide, Barbara Bobo is an entrepreneurial institution. When I spoke with Barbara last year, she told me that she and her husband had semi-retired to their Canadian cottage where she's enjoying her hobbies of knitting and bouncing grandchildren on her knees. She is the President Emeritus of the Soap Guild. Wherever you are Barbara, we thank you for what your vision has produced!

2. I Was Registered to Attend the First Soap Guild "Conference".

Back when I had a "real" job, I registered to attend the first Soap Guild conference in the Paris, Ohio, in Barbara Bobo's back yard. Two days before the event, I had to fill in for an attorney in a court case. Just my luck. I wasn't in Ohio physically, but I was there in spirit. I have always been proud that my name is listed on the little tri-fold brochure as an attendee at the Soap Guild's first "conference."

3. The Soap Guild Gives Away Spatulas.

When you arrive at the conference registration desk, you are given a huge goodie bag. As it turns out, this is reason enough to come to the conference. You also get a folder containing important papers and a spatula. At the annual meeting, you vote with your spatula. It's hilarious to see a bunch of mostly women from all walks of life discussing business and voting on serious issues -- using huge spatulas.

So if you need a new spatula, there's another reason to come to the conference.

4. The Soap Guild Knows How to Host a Conference.

I already said how great it is to be a member of the Soap Guild, and it's true that there's lots of business inspiration. But I have to say that another reason to connect with them is that you get a discount on one of the most exciting conferences ever.

The Soap Guild conference is not a "gathering." (Not that there's anything wrong with gatherings.) It's a conference in every sense of the word. This year, Elvis was there as you can see from the video. Next year, a great comedy line up is planned as part of a Renaissance Carnival, which will hosted by my friends and longtime Indie Beauty Network members Dennis and Kayla Fioravanti of Essential Wholesale.

5. Marie Gale Rocks.

Marie is the president of the Soap Guild. She's also a the owner of Chandler's Soap, a member of IBN and a wonderful example of how to lead a non-profit trade organization. I have often gone into Soap Guild meetings with the expectation that I will see a true leader run a business meeting using Robert's Rules of Order like nobody's business. Marie never disappoints.

Marie has an uncanny ability to stay focused in the midst of chaos. Once at a Soap Guild meeting, the conversation was getting out of hand. After a while, we all heard the voice of Marie roping everyone back to the crux of the matter and announcing that there was no time for extracurricular chatter. She used her Mother Voice. We all sat at attention. And that was that.

Meet Marie and the Soap Guild's current Board of Directors here.

6. Soap Guild Conferences Are Organized.

Have you ever been to a conference run by amateurs? You get there and your name tag is not alphabetized or they had to find you a place to sit at the awards dinner because the volunteer ran out of place cards? Well, that won't happen at the Soap Guild Conference.

First of all, it's organized by Leigh O'Donnell, a soapmaker who is blessed with incredible administrative gifts. Leigh has become a professional event planner (in my eyes) simply through on the job planning of Soap Guild conferences. She coordinates volunteers and motivates each one to work the conference as if they are being paid a million dollars. They are dedicated, helpful and they even wear coordinated uniforms so you can easily spot them and get the help you need no matter where you are in the hotel.

Leigh, can you come help me organize my life?

7. The 2009 Conference Will Be in Palm Springs, California at the Miramonte Resort and Spa.

And so, that's all I have to say about that.

8. The Soap Guild Just Started Twittering.

OK, so you know I can barely do a blog post anymore without mentioning Twitter. Through the Supreme Organizer of the Universe, Leigh O'Donnell, the Soap Guild showed up at Twitter a few weeks ago gathering followers and generally Twittering about how they were working to get the best speakers possible for the conference. Within a matter of about 5 days, they had filled the speaker rostrum with other Tweeters.

Ahem. Do you need to join Twitter?

9. The Soap Guild Donates Soap.

Every year, the Soap Guild conference includes a contest to determine the best soaps in a variety of categories -- best in show, best packaging, best swirl, best fragrance, etc. Each year, they connect with a women's shelter or similar organization in the city where the conference is hosted to donate soaps and other personal care items for their residents. A representative from the shelter is on hand at the awards dinner to accept a donation of all of the soaps in the contest, plus other products donated by members throughout the organization. How cool is that?

I think I'll make some soap next year to donate. On second thought, better leave that to the people who make it more and way better than me. Wouldn't want to give Palm Springs the wrong idea about me and all. (That is to say, I love making soap but my spatula's a little rusty since young kids and the Indie Beauty Network keep me pretty busy. Are those acceptable excuses not to make soap? Be kind when you answer.)

10. One of the Soap Guild's Most Treasured Members is Sister Cathleen Marie Timberlake.

A soapmaking nun, yes. Only at the Soap Guild. Sister Cathleen Marie is a member of the Benedictine Sisters of Perpetual Adoration in Clyde, Missouri. In addition to a life of prayer and devotion to God, Sister Cathleen Marie makes and sells handmade soap at Monastery Creations. If that's not the darnedest thing, you know? Check out my video interview of Sister Cathleen.

So that's 10 interesting things about the Handcrafted Soapmakers Guild.

What about you?

Do you know anything about the Handcrafted Soapmakers Guild and their annual conference? Do you agree that it's wonderful and that Palm Springs can't get here fast enough? Please tell us what you think in the comments section below.

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