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JhaVoice Music

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JhaVoice is winning over fans daily with her CD, "Voice 2 Sing". 13 perfect examples of true soul music from this international singer! If you haven’t listened to the sultry sounds of JhaVoice, you might be missing out on one of your favorite albums without even knowing it. Hailed by some as the new Sade, JhaVoice has been making a name for herself and her music, by performing at shows in Southern California and winning new fans.

jhavoicemusic2_small.jpgWith her recent performances at Hard Rock Casino (Las Vegas) The Temple Bar(Santa Monica), Grand Star(Chinatown), The Celebrity Centre(LA), Key Club (LA), Chocolat (Melrose) Zen Sushi (LA) Fresh Fest (LA) and The Blue Guitar(Palm Springs), JhaVoice continues to make music throughout California. Take a second to hear what the fuss is all about! Look for JhaVoice’s full length debut “Voice 2 Sing” on iTunes, CDBaby and Amazon.com!

An Israeli native from North African decent, JhaVoice traveled the world as a photographer before she began her music career. Her world experience and view helps define her work, as she brings an exotic harmony to the songs she works on. An accomplished guitar player and songwriter in her own right, JhaVoice enlist the production of help of up and coming heavyweight producers Kaiu Lateef, Phazze, Church Holiday, DJ Shiro, K-Beats and many other talented musicians and producers.

The “Voice 2 Sing” CD captures the true character of JhaVoice, as she sings about everything from love, pain, war, hope, faith and God. No cookie cutter non-sense here, JhaVoice has a message to deliver and she wastes no time doing it.

386919266_24e8276510_m.jpgWhen JhaVoice sings in her native language, she is able to flex her style in a way no other artist can! “Col Hamishalot”, which means all of our wishes, is sung completely in Hebrew. It is an amazing example ofhow she weaves world music sounds into a smooth urban R&B groove. She sings “Why Do We Kill?” in English and Hebrew, setting the mood for the album. “You Say (Moonlight)” and “Keep The Faith”, both produced by K-Beats, is fast becoming the songs of choice, as the live performances had crowds cheering in approval. People describe her live performances of these songs as “goose-bump inducers”. We certainly couldn’t ask for better praise, hopefully you will be moved by this CD as well.

JhaVoice has been busy promoting the CD, with her recent shows all receiving tremendous praise! She headlined the "Circle Of Light:Independent Women In Music Showcase" at the Celebrity Center in Los Angeles and continues to improve her stage show with her incredible live band!

The single “Got Your Back” is a mid tempo groove that we feel could be a classic song of hers. It glows with a warm buzz, allowing JhaVoice to fill the track with her vibes.

You can order your copy of "Voice 2 Sing" online at iTunes, as well as AOLMusic Now, CD Baby, Yahoo Rhapsody. You can hear free songs at her MySpace page too.

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Listen to clips from the entire album below!

1 Intro

2 Why do we kill

3 Got your back

4 You Say (Moon Light)

5 Lets Roll

6 Voice 2 Sing

7 Keep the Faith

8 Col Hamishalottt

9 Embryonic Beginning

10 The Day

11 Time

12 Imagine

13 Rebel Song

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www.myspace.com/jhavoicehttp://cdbaby.com/cd/jhavoicemusic2

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The Lord Jesus Christ hears us, y'all!

Check this out!I prayed specifically for God to allow me to find my passion. I had lived over 3 decades on earth and didn't have one. My dream was to make a profit at something I loved to do. God knows I love crafts and making beautiful things out of ordinary items. My love of crafts over time morphed into a mini business. If it is His will, my mini business will transform into a big business and inspire my two daughters to start small but dream big! I can't wait to see what the Lord will do! Stay tuned!
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Murphy's Commerce Laws

I stumbled upon this site via....stumbleupon.com. I selected just a few of the laws, but you can read the rest herehttp://www.murphys-laws.com/murphy/murphy-commerce.htmlMurphy's commerce laws• If you can't get your work done in the first 24 hours, work nights.• A pat on the back is only a few inches from a kick in the pants.• Don't be irreplaceable, if you can't be replaced, you can't be promoted.• The more crap you put up with, the more crap you are going to get.• You can go anywhere you want if you look serious and carry a clipboard. (I’ve learned this is true from James Bond films.)• Eat one live toad first thing in the morning and nothing worse will happen to you the rest of the day.• When the bosses talk about improving productivity, they are never talking about themselves.• If at first you don't succeed, try again. Then quit. No use being a damn fool about it.• Mother said there would be days like this, but she never said there would be so many.• The last person that quit or was fired will be the one held responsible for everything that goes wrong - until the next person quits or is fired.• The more pretentious a corporate name, the smaller the organization.• If you are good, you will be assigned all the work. If you are really good, you will get out of it.• If it wasn't for the last minute, nothing would get done.
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Upcoming Guests on LE Radio

We are talking all things Wedding, Special Events, and Travel. We broadcast on the 2nd and 4th Sundays at Noon PST/3pm EST on http://www.le-radio.netHere's a list of our upcoming shows and guests.April 27, 2008How to choose a photographerSpecial guest: Michael Corsentino of Corsentino PhotographerMay 11, 2008Mother's Day - No ShowMay 25, 2008ChocolateBrides.comSpecial Guest: Keisha Monk-Myrick, OwnerHope that you will be able to join and call in with your questions or join us for our live chat.See you on the radio!MargaretLexus Eventshttp://www.lexusevents.bizhttp://www.le-radio.net
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events

Booking Info: Poets and musicians, you are always welcome to perform as part of the open mic. If you are interested in being a featured spoken word poet or musicians, on the Soul Release Stage, please send a bio, mp3 and myspace page link to info@nokturnalescape.com For these slots we book local and national artists.THE 4TH ANNUAL YOUTH POETRY SLAMPoetry, Music, Cash Prizes, Its all for the kids. Once again, we are a proud sponsor of the 4th Annual Youth Poetry Slam, which will be held Saturday, April 19, 2008. To register your kids for slam, become a sponsor the event, please call or email Tonya Smart at 904-502-7444 or email gneiss262003@yahoo.com or visit www.myspace.com/jaxpoetryslam--------------------------------------------------------------------------------nokturnalescape radioby Tiffany Duhart, Managing Directortduhart@nokturnalescape.comIts been over a year since our last podcast, now nokturnalescape radio (formerly soul release radio) is back. nokturnalescape radio is a monthly podcast of neo soul, acid jazz, hip hop and beyond. Listen and download at http://nokturnalescape.podomatic.com/Playlist***Replay/Artist: Kevin Sandbloom/Album: From A Bird/Year: 2005Blessed 2 Have/Artist: Floetry/Album: Flo'Ology/Year: 2005Softest Lips/Artist: Eric Roberson/Album: The Appetizer/Year: 2005Alright/Artist: Ledisi/Album: Lost and Found/Year: 2007Make You Feel That Way/Artist: Blackalicious/Album: Blazing Arrow /Year: 2002Got 2 Be Down/Artist: Robin Thicke featuring Faith Evans/Album: The Evolution of Robin Thicke/Year: 2006Contraband (Sian)/Artist: LTJ Bukem/Album: Earth 6/Year: 2003Divided/Artist: T76/Album: Street Love/Year: 2007Sometimes I Wonder/Artist: Jill Scott/Album: Jill Scott Collaborations/Year: 2007Faith/Artist: Amp Fiddler/Album: Afro Strut/Year: 2006So Far To Go/Artist: Common with D'Angelo/Album: Finding Forever/Year: 2007Maybe Now/Artist: Clara Hill/Album: Restless Times/Year: 2004You/Artist: Fertile Ground/Album: Black Is/Year: 2004Sandbloom performs at Soul Release @ 9th and Main onJanuary 19.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------ADVERTISEMENTS AND COMMERICALShttp://www.myspace.com/tonyt76whitelisten to music, 904 soul artist, T76powered by www.peteywheatstraw.netfor dj services, mixtapes, graphic design and promotions, contact: DJ PeteywheatstrawDJ Peteywheatstraw at the Venue (Old Martini, Fat Kat Lounge) on Edgewood Avenue near Jones College on April 26
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See New Money

Basic Principles For The 21st CenturyNow that the first quarter is over, don't miss the opportunity to makeyour lifestyle recession-proof.This event will provide you with simple steps to secure your financial future.Be the first to acquire innovative techniques to secure your financial stability.Where: Owen Brown Community Center6800 Cradlerock WayColumbia, MD 21045410-309-4052When: Saturday, April 19, 2008Time: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.Cost: The registration fee has been waivedRegister by responding to this email or call 410-309-4052.Once we reach full capacity your name will be placed on a waiting list.SEATING IS LIMITED.This seminar will equip you with answers to long standing questions like:o Is my 401K okay?o What I don’t know, can cost me?o Is my cash flow clogged?o Are foreclosures, bankruptcies and layoffsa threat to my lifestyle?o Is there a hole in my cash bucket?o What’s really in my wallet?o Is my money system ordinary or extraordinary?What’s the difference?o Do I need a midlife money management makeover?We hear the conversations and the questions.That’s why we have extended this personal invitation for you tojoin us for this life changing experience.Register today to explore Basic Principles For The 21st Century.All who attend will have an opportunity to win a $100.00 GAS CARD,a Money Making Website training.PLUS!Ask about the 4-day vacation in sunny Myrtle Beach, S.C.Make room in your schedule right now to attend.Successfully,Carl and Val McKoyCertified Prosperity Partners(410)309-4051v.mckoy@yahoo.comcz_mckoy@yahoo.com
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It's Worth It

Your vision is plain. You get excited and you are fired up - ready to go............... Then somewhere along the path of following your business goals, you become disheartened. You question your ability to be successful, you wonder why things are not falling into place, you begin to question yourself. The paperwork, the licenses, permits, finances, etc. - one thing after the other - and on and on................ You ask yourself is it worth it?I strongly believe that you must remain resilient. Challenges will come - they always do. Although the moments during the challenge can be overwhelming, it is how you were able to come through the challenge that prepares you for handling the business. I can't tell you how many times I have had to face one challenge after another - it was as though there was a challenge line - with each one waiting for the other to be over so that the next one can present itself. I can tell you that once you've worked through it, you will see that it was not so bad after all - it's worth it.Your business is always a work in progress. Why? Well, you should always be in the frame of mind where you think of ways to improve. Even if your business idea is just in the head, add your ideas to your plans - write it down. Plan to be great at what you do and know that the challenges are going to happen - work through them - seek guidance - push on - in the end you will realize - it's worth it.................
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Greetings Family,(Contact Information At Bottom Of Page)It's your friendly neighborhood "Digital Drummer" again (smile)As I've been writing about this all year long. Independent film and music producers are getting paid by marketing, and distributing their own projects direct to the Web.Thanks to the advent of high-quality home video cameras, low-cost video editing software, and the increased adoption of broadband and mobile media players; what used to be considered a dirty word in Hollywood, "Direct-to-Video" has now morphed into a cottage industry called point-to-point online film distribution.An independent filmmaker or music producer can now create, promote and market their own film or music video, for less then the cost of a used car. Think about it...What can you NOT stream to now days??? Computers, video gaming platforms, mobile media devices, and even cell phones, all play online videos.Money is being made and paid everyday, on the popularity of online videos. YouTube just announced that it has paid out One Million Dollars to independent video/film producers in the last four months (see https://www.youtube.com/blog)...how much of that did you get???Revver, the first user generated video site to offer revenue sharing, has paid out over a million dollars to more than 25,000 people who have posted their work to Revver.com. The biggest paycheck — $50,000 for 15 clips — went to two guys from Maine who inserted a Mentos mint into a bottle of Diet Coke and watched it explode.You've heard me say it before, and I'm reemphasizing it now: Blacks Are The Originators Of American Pop Culture! And just like the Dr. Dre and Master P were selling thousands of CD's out the trunk of their car, before they ever got a record deal. You could be making thousands of dollars without ever going to the mainstream studios and record companies, begging for a deal.***************(Advertisement)*********************TraVerus Travel - Become a part of the most unique family in MLMTo learn more about free travel visit their websitewww.traverusfaststart.com/yes.html******************************************************That does not mean that a standard theatrical release or record deal is not your ultimate goal, but money in your pocket and a validated online audience will make that task, oh so much easer. For some real world examples of successful low budget film projects see my story on The ABC's of Online Film Distribution (http://www.blackwebportal.com/wire/DA.cfm?ArticleID=2037)Even though actual numbers are being held close to the vest, a little math shows that the going rate is around 50 to 80 cents per thousand views. For example; The producer of one video, the 2-million-view smash hit "Break a Leg," got a check from YouTube for $1,600--which equates to a net $0.80 CPM (cost per thousand).Black America is only 12-13% of the population yet it influences 90% - 100% of mainstream American culture. From music to movies, literature to language; fashion to finance; Black America has predominant influence. No other minority group in this country has a more influential position, yet Black's are not fully enjoying the full benefits of such a role.Now is the time for us to start utilizing technology to enjoy the full fruits of our labor, instead of the crumbs off the table. Emerging new markets such as mobile TV, user generated video services, and personalization (graphics and visual themes), are forecast to contribute $11 billion in revenues by 2010 as the market develops and expands.Now I'm not going to repeat the reasons why, we as Black folk, should be taking advantage of this new and growing industry...Duh!!! All I'm saying to my music, video and want-ta-be friends, is; I'm after mine...Don't forget to get yours!If you're an independent Rich Media (video, music, game, pictures) content producer, and want to know how to get in the digital entertainment game, just run a search on my name and start reading the many articles and links I've published on the subject of point-to-point online distribution.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******************************************************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 )
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WE WERE INTERVIEWED TODAY!

Hello Everyone,Today we had the privilege to be interviewed by the CEO of BLOGTALKRADIO Alan Levy on his show. All four of us were present - cough ridden me - yeah I drugged myself to be on the show.Take the time to listen to the show - just to give you an idea - who we are - click the linkInterview of THE CREW OF IN MY PAJAMAS SHOW with ALAN LEVYThanksAmy, Supervising Producer of IN MY PAJAMAS SHOW
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Does adding a couple of key natural ingredients to a skin care product make it natural? Certainly it is not considered so by many consumers. This article outlines the benefits of truly natural products on our skin, bodies and the environment.The term “natural” is somewhat misleading with regard to use in cosmetics. In Australia and the US manufacturers can add 5% of a natural ingredient to a synthetic and call a product natural. This is generally regarded as “greenwashing” and such products aren’t considered natural at all. So what do you look for to get the REAL benefits from truly natural products?1. Truly natural products contain no synthetic ingredients such as artificial colours or fragrances. Artificial fragrances are amongst the most irritating ingredient in skin care with the ability to cause or significantly contribute to irritating skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, rashes and hives. You will notice the difference in your skin when you avoid such ingredients.2. Natural products contain no potentially harmful ingredients such as petrochemicals, mineral oils, sodium lauryl sulphate and propolene glycol. According to Skin Deep, an Environmental Working Group in the US, many of the synthetic ingredients used (in the US and Australia) in everyday skin care are potentially toxic to humans.3. Natural skin care is formulated to support the healthy functioning of our skin from within and without. Humans absorb up to 60% of any substance applied to our skin. It has been calculated that the average women can absorb up to 2kg of different chemicals through their skin each year. By using natural products you ensure that what you are absorbing is benefiting your skin and body, promoting radiance and health.4. Our bodies have to break down, detoxify and excrete any substance we put on them. This puts an extra burden of toxicity on the body and is of particular concern for young babies and children whose organs of elimination are not fully developed. Reduce your toxic burden by using whole, unrefined natural products.5. Natural skin & body care products contain nutrients, including naturally occurring antioxidants, amino acids, botanical extracts, pure essential oils and essential fatty acids in their holistic form which is more compatible with our skin and bodies. This includes nutrients such as grape seed (rich in phytochemicals that support the skin), rose hip oil (rich in vitamin C), Carrot oil (rich in vitamin A), pumpkin seed oil (rich in zinc), olive oil (rich in squalene) to name but a few. These ingredients promote healthy skin by nourishing from the outside in.6. Natural cosmetics are more active. Excluding water, often contain up to 95% active ingredients rather than 5% active ingredients in a 95% inert (non-active) base as in many of everyday personal care products and cosmetics. You will notice a difference when you use natural products.7. Wholly natural products are not tested on animals.8. Many of the suppliers of natural skin care are local and cottage industries. Buying these products supports sustainable manufacturing processes, the ability to maintain quality control by hand making small quantities in order to provide fresh product, small business enterprise and local communities.9. Natural products are environmentally friendly. Recent studies have shown that the chemicals and toxins found in most skin care products have a harmful effect on the environment as well as they take longer to break down than whole, unrefined ingredients.10. Value for money. Natural products are often cheaper than synthetic products as they don’t have to compete in the hyped brand focused market. You are also paying for active rather than inert ingredients. When considering the benefits available form natural skin care the value of natural products outweighs anything else on the market.Credits:Ananda Mahony ND has been involved in the natural skin care industry for many years. This article outlines the benefits of natural skin care over their synthetic counterparts. Please include this credit if you use this article.
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By Rebecca RuizForbesupdated 10:44 a.m. CT, Mon., Feb. 11, 2008Until last year, Tom Glassanos, a 52-year-old Bay Area entrepreneur, had engaged in philanthropy largely through donations to charitable causes. It was an e-mail from his 17-year-old son, which included a link to a Web site called Cross-Cultural Solutions, that began to change his perspective.The site described volunteer opportunities in 15 different countries, and Glassanos was intrigued by the idea of volunteering while on vacation. His son's timing was opportune as Glassanos' private electronic billing company, Xign, had just been acquired by JPMorgan Chase. Glassanos was then free to travel with his wife and son to Rabat, Morocco, where they spent one month holding different volunteer positions during the week and exploring the North African country on the weekends.No one is tracking the number of American executives trading in a five-star European vacation for a few weeks of volunteering abroad, but the trend has gained traction as business leaders like Bill Gates and Warren Buffett have drawn attention to the power of philanthropy in resource-poor nations. Executives and professionals have increasingly looked to volunteer travel for career enhancement, personal fulfillment and improved cultural literacy."It's as much a way for a volunteer's life to be touched by others," says Glassanos of his experience teaching Moroccan women computer and business skills. "It gave me an opportunity to explore the world and what was important to them."Feel-good travel trendsVolunteer travel is not a new phenomenon; Cross-Cultural Solutions began operating international volunteer programs in 1995 and, of course, programs like the Peace Corps and the U.K. Volunteer Service Overseas have promoted foreign volunteering for decades.The travel industry, however, is recognizing a growing interest in vacations that combine aid work with weekend sightseeing or cultural immersion. Last year, CheapTickets and United Way partnered to create an online search tool that combines domestic volunteer listings and travel options.A Travelocity survey of 1,017 people in late 2007 found that 17.7 percent of respondents had previously taken a vacation with a volunteer or philanthropic component. Of those, trips with a focus on conservation, education and health care were the most popular.Why and how to goMost "voluntourists" prefer philanthropic traveling to traditional vacations, and executives are no different. Executives frequently hope the experience will further define their career, according to Dava Antoniotti, director of program enrollment for CCS."A lot of people are used to the daily grind, and they're questioning the direction of altruism in their careers," says Antoniotti. She notes that executives often find trips more fulfilling than just donating money, and that some take their families as well.With several companies sponsoring volunteer trips, there are numerous opportunities to incorporate one's professional or personal interests. The international volunteer company i-to-i features programs like coaching soccer in Tanzania or teaching English in China. uVolunteer sends travelers to Ecuador to assist people indigenous to the Amazon rainforest with community development, while media and graphic design professionals work on editorial projects in Bolivia.Success storyJohn Wood, a former Microsoft executive, traveled to Nepal in 1998 with no intention to do philanthropic work. But an encounter with a school district resource officer who decried the area's lack of educational resources changed Wood's mind. The next year, he formed Room to Read, a nonprofit that has built schools and libraries in Southeast Asia and South Africa."The cliché now is prosperity with a purpose," says Wood, "and at that point I didn't know what the purpose was." Now, Wood's organization offers trips for volunteers, including employees of Accenture and PepsiCo, which both support Room to Read, to visit the schools.Antoniotti says that a number of businesses have approached CCS inquiring about extending volunteer travel trips to their staff. CCS partners currently include Salesforce, The Cartoon Network and AIO Group."They're encouraging staff members to [travel] because we live in a global community," says Antoniotti. "They need a level of cultural competence, working with a team across language barriers. It's also a great benefit."Pricing varies widely based on the destination and the services provided by the organization, which can be as basic as sharing a home with a host family to living in a home owned by the company and staffed with locals. Packages often don't include the price of airfare, either.And before deciding on a program, Charlotte Hindle, author of "Volunteer: A Traveler's Guide to Making a Difference Around the World," says it's important to consider the ethical implications of volunteer travel."Make sure you're not taking a job from a local person," she says. "People see volunteering with rose-tinted glasses and think [they're] going to really contribute. That's not necessarily the case."© 2008 Forbes.com
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An Intimate Moment

An intimate momentCome out from under the cloud and the shadow of deception, destruction and dis-ease. What are you talking about Pinki? I'm glad you asked, you have been going through this particular storm for some time now, and every time it looks like the storm is passing over, the clouds begin to roll again, well sister, it is time to come out from under the cloud and the shadow. You have taken all that you need to take, you have lost all the time, money, energy and tears you can afford to lose. You can have the peace of God, peace with God, and peace from God during this season. You were lied to and you believed it, you were tricked by a deceiver who happens to be good at his game, but when a woman runs back to and into the blood of Jesus, things change: your outlook change, your circumstances change, your mind changes, your mood, your money, your faith.... Faith without works is dead, get up and get from under the cloud and the shadow of deception, destruction and dis-ease. If where you are is making you sick and paralyzing your progress with God, girl, you are suffering from the spirit of "dis-ease", and there is healing for it, you are at a dis-ease about the whole situation, you need to make a radical move and you need to move now! God is not going to leave you crying, helpless and hopeless. In every "hopeless" situation, there is yet "HOPE". So shake yourself loose and get up and make YOUR life work for you. Start right now living life on a new level. What your enemy meant for evil, God is going to work it out for your good. I am praying for you my sister.
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Volunteer/Intern Opening’s for ClubCushions.comClub Cushions is all about the empowerment and acceptance of women of size. I would like to invite you to visit the website at ClubCushions. Com for more information. We are currently seeking businesses to network with for Club Cushions events. For our next event, we need sponsors to donate any advertising specialty items (pens, tshirts, keychains, small gifts) and in return you would gain FURTHER recognition for your business. If you are interested you can reply to this bulliten or email me at info@clubcushions.comVolunteer/Intern Opening's for ClubCushions. com:We are looking for writer's to be apart of the Club Cushions Team! Whatever the style (except erotic), we would love for you to submit a sample of your work to info@clubcushions.com for consideration. Spots are limited.If you…Are a supporter of ClubCushions. comWrite poemsLove giving adviceKnow all the latest fashion trendsAre the "matchmaker" among your friendsLove musicLove to talk and ask questionsWrite short storiesETC.(men may apply)!!!!We are also looking for positive women who would like to start City & State Chapters of Club Cushions LLC.(only the serious need to apply)***We are looking for persons with marketing and business background!***We need you for our publication. Respond to this bulletin or email me at info@clubcushions.com
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(CNN) -- Josh Dorkin and his wife were scheduled to fly to Chicago last week for a wedding and family reunion. The couple paid about $300 for two tickets on American Airlines, but Josh found out that the flight was canceled after spending five hours on the phone with customer service.Travelers may want to consider travel insurance to protect against flight cancellations.The Dorkins weren't guaranteed seats on a United Airlines flight, so Josh spent $1000 for tickets on Southwest. American said his $300 will be refunded, but Josh is still frustrated."It turned out to be a bloody disaster," he said.With the chaos in the skies, travelers are looking to protect themselves any way they can. Some experts say travel insurance is key."As we get into the summer months, that extra piece of insurance can give you piece of mind," said Tom Parsons, CEO of Bestfares.com, a discount travel Web site. "We see airlines cutting back, bad weather. Insurance isn't a bad idea," he said.Josh Dorkin said he'll consider travel insurance next time."Considering what's going on, it will be fairly prudent at this point to get travel insurance," he said. "It's important in this day and age."But some industry insiders aren't sure it will pay off."Travel insurance does not insure your trip," said Ed Perkins of Smartertravel.com. "It insures your money. If you're involved in an airline mechanical delay, travel insurance won't do much for you," he said. "Travel insurance isn't good for these day-to-day difficulties."To buy or not to buy?In the case your flight is delayed or canceled, the airline generally arranges for alternate transportation or you'll get a voucher for future travel. And while American Airlines passengers received compensation, travel insurance may play a role in covering expenses the airline won't cover, like taxi fare to the hotel, meals or other amenities, said Vickie Corliss of Insuremytrip.com, a third- party insurance site.There are some instances where travel insurance is a good bet. If you're scheduled to go on a cruise, or you've booked a rental property or a package tour, a policy can save you a significant amount of money should an unforeseen event pop up. If you've invested $5,000 for a cruise, it's probably worth getting a policy. This way if your flight getting to the cruise is delayed or canceled, you won't be out the cost of your vacation."Whether you need to buy a policy depends on how much money you have at risk," said Perkins. "The whole idea of insurance is to protect big investments, not to argue over chump change," he said.The most common and comprehensive coverage is trip cancellation insurance, accounting for 77 percent of total sales according to the US Travel Insurance Association, an industry group. This policy will cover you in case your plane is delayed or canceled. You'll recoup un-reimbursed costs, like meals and hotels, if you're stuck at an airport for a certain amount of time, usually four to eight hours according to the USTIA. Trip cancellation policies also cover lost baggage and un-reimbursed costs in case you have to cancel your trip because of an illness.If your airline stops operating, travel insurance may cover your tickets. But be wary of the fine print here. Some insurance carriers have a white list and a black list. If an airline is on a white list and it goes bankrupt, you'll be covered. But if an airline is on the black list, you won't. See how airlines are coping with rising costs »Know your optionsTravel insurance policies aren't cheap. They can run 4 to 8 percent of the total cost of your trip. Shop around for a policy that fits your budget. InsureMyTrip.com, QuoteWright.com and SquareMouth.com help travelers comparison shop.Travel insurance is even more expensive for older travelers. If you're in your 70s or 80s, you may want to consider getting a cancellation waiver from your carrier. "It costs much less than travel insurance," said Perkins. With a cancellation waiver, you won't have to pay penalties if you cancel your trip at the last minute. Keep in mind that you may not be covered with this waiver if you cancel because of a pre-existing medical condition.If you decide to invest in travel insurance, but you're worried about the solvency of the operator, use a third-party insurance agent so that you're ensured reimbursement even if your airline or cruise line goes out of business.Timing is key if you want to purchase travel insurance. You'll get the maximum amount of coverage if you buy a policy within 7 to 21 days of putting down your trip deposit. You'll get financial default coverage, in case the airline stops flying, and pre-existing medical conditions coverage. Make sure you read the find print: Some companies will only give you 7 days to buy coverage to get these benefits, while others will allow up to 21 days.Before you invest in a travel insurance policy, call your credit card issuer. You may have some free travel benefits you're not even aware of, said Curtis Arnold of Cardratings.com, a credit card information Web site. American Express, for example, will give you $500 worth of insurance if your checked luggage is lost and up to $1250 if your carry-on baggage is damaged. Some Chase cards will reimburse you up to $300 immediately if your bags are delayed.Credit cards also have merchant dispute benefits. Your credit card company may go to bat for you if your flight is canceled and you haven't been appropriately accommodated or reimbursed. You have to make a good faith effort to solve the problem yourself first, but if the travel provider hasn't solved the problem and has not upheld its end of the bargain -- namely, getting you to your destination -- get in touch with your credit card issuer. A lot of issuers will instantly credit your account
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Free Tutorial On Creating Quality Online Video

Greetings Family,(Contact Information At Bottom Of Page)It's your friendly neighborhood "Digital Drummer" again (smile)The following tutorial was sent to me by a sharp brother and recognized Digital Drummer... Anthony Stewart. Brother Stewart has a great website designed specifically to make technology simple (see http://www.theanthonyreport.com/)Below I have scaled down a fabulous tutorial, on how to create and upload quality videos to the web. If you're in the entertainment business, or looking to incorporate Rich Media onto your website, I strongly recommend that you download the full PDF file, and save it to your hard drive.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******************************************************HOW TO GET QUALITY VIDEO ONLINEBrought to you by The Anthony Report | Simplyfing Digital Technologyhttp://howtogetqualityvideoonline.com/HowToGetQualityVideoOnline.pdfSTEP ONE: Always start out with the best shot (videotaped) footage you can.This means you will need to know a few things about shooting video. There are 3 stages in the process of shooting video or film. Those stages are, Pre-Production, Production and Post-Production.PreProduction – In this stage you’ll plan everything before you start recording. You’ll go over the set (environment to shoot) the script and all the equipment you’ll need to produce the finished product. I can tell you that nearly every shoot (videotaping session) will require, proper lighting, good microphones, and a good camera.Camera – (see full tutorial)Lights – (see full tutorial)Microphone – (see full tutorial)Headphones – (see full tutorial)).Set/Background – (see full tutorial)Accessories – (see full tutorial)Production – (see full tutorial)STEP TWO – Capture, edit and finish the footage in a format that keeps the highest quality of the footage intact for compression.Post Production – This is where we take all the footage you just shot off the camera and place it on a computer for editing then go on to edit, finish and compress it for the web.Firewire – (see full tutorial)Editing Software – (see full tutorial)Now once you have chosen and installed the editing application of your choice then the major steps are pretty much the same in all of them...(see full tutorial for detailed 8 step process)STEP THREE – How to Compress your footage and retain the highest QualityThere are several compression applications available but they all compress to just a few popular formats that work on the web. These primary formats are Quicktime, Windows Media, and Flash.Your editing application will give you the option to choose the format you want. Below is a brief description of each, but more importantly, the settings you’ll need to get the best Quality out of each... (see full tutorial)STEP FOUR - After you have the clip compressed you’ll need to get it onto the web.The main question you’ll have to ask yourself is...where is the clip going to be displayed. If you want the clip in your own webpage then you’ll have to embed it. If you want it on Youtube, Google Video or my favorite, Viddler.com, then you’ll have to encode the footage differently and upload to their servers so the footage can be re-encoded...(see full tutorial)I know sometimes that trying to learn how to do things with computers and other technologies can be somewhat daunting to say the least. Which, is why I have created this whole tutorial in video format (see http://www.howtogetqualityvideoonline.com) where you can watch over my shoulder while I go through the processes I’ve mentioned above.© 2008 Anthony Stewart - All Rights Reserved | http://www.howtogetqualityvideoonline.com***************(Advertisement)*********************TraVerus Travel - Become a part of the most unique family in MLMTo learn more about free travel visit their websitewww.traverusfaststart.com/yes.html******************************************************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 )
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Resorts offer new deals

Both Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World recently announced new free-dining packages that will be available for some guests staying in the resorts' on-property hotels during the late summer or early fall.Universal's package will provide free dining for two people at select locations in Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure when they book a minimum three-night stay at one of the three Loews Hotels there and buy two-park ticket packages. The deal includes unlimited dining plus soft-drink fountain beverages.Guests must book their trip between now and June 1, for travel between Aug. 17 and Oct. 9.Disney World's package is available to those who purchase "Magic Your Way" packages for late August or early-to-mid September. People who purchase five-night, six-day packages that include resort-hotel rooms can receive the Disney Dining Plan at no additional charge.They must book between now and June 22, for a stay between Aug. 24 and Sept. 20.The plan includes one quick-service meal, one select snack and one table-service meal for each night of a guest's package stay. Gratuities and alcoholic beverages are not included. Children ages 3-9 must choose from the children's menu if one is offered.More than 100 restaurants throughout Disney World participate in the program.
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Disney Does Bridal

Kirstie Kelly for Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings Collection Is Inspired by the Unique Spirit and Personality of Each Disney PrincessNEW YORK--The Gown. The Slipper. The Kiss. The Prince. Under it all, every girl believes in the dream. As a tribute to fairy tale wishes and finding true love, Disney today will unveil a new collection of wedding gowns inspired by the spirit and style of each Disney Princess. Kirstie Kelly For Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings inaugural collection will be showcased on the runways this evening as part of the New York Bridal Fashion Week. Bridal gowns priced between $1,100 and $3,500 US dollars and a “Maidens” for bridesmaids collection will be available at specialty boutiques in North America, Japan and Europe beginning in June. The collection will soon expand to include “Jewels” that accessorize even the fairest of them all.The collection combines a fashion-forward look with timeless elements inspired by the Disney Princesses themselves, including Ariel, Aurora/Sleeping Beauty, Belle, Cinderella, Jasmine and Snow White. Fabrics like organza, chantilly, chiffon, satins and tulle are accented with stunning embellishments, including lace, ribbons, crystals, pearls and gorgeous embroidered beading.“Every look takes its inspiration from the silhouette, palette and icons of each Disney Princess story and interprets the spirit of each young woman,” said Kelly. “Each of them has a unique, charming and very individual style that many brides can identify with – and now truly emulate – on their wedding day.”The Ariel dresses are sultry and alluring – ideal for the bride who feels comfortable with a more form-fitted look. Fabrics consist of gorgeous silks and chiffons, beads, leaf appliqué and pearls, with a mermaid-like “wave effect” at the bottom. The Aurora/Sleeping Beauty collection is lovely and romantic, with a mix of georgette, chantilly, high-shine satin, pearl and crystal embellishments, with pleated hems and beaded organza inlays. The Belle collection exudes stylish sophistication, with lace and ribbon, bands of satin, taffeta and gorgeous tulle flowers at the neckline. The Cinderella gowns radiate classic glamour and elegance, with silk tulle, duchesse satin, scattered crystals and embroidered beading. The Jasmine gowns convey a Bohemian chic look, featuring appliquéd lace, embroidery and draping, with chiffon and satin mixed in with clustered beadwork. The Snow White dresses are sweet and demure, with rouched chiffon, tulle inlays with beading and pleated satins.“When brides shop for wedding gowns and see Kirstie Kelly’s Disney Princess-inspired collection, they will stop in their tracks,” said Jim Calhoun, executive VP, global apparel, Disney Consumer Products. “Every bride wants to be a Princess on their wedding day, and they want the magical feeling that goes along with it. This collection captures that magic extremely well.”For consumer information on the Kirstie Kelly For Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings collection, consumers may visit Disney BridalAbout Kirstie KellyKirstie Kelly of Kirstie Kelly, Inc. designs couture bridal gowns with the highest quality and attention to detail. A graduate of The Otis Art Institute of Parsons School of Design in Los Angeles, she has been designing bridal and evening wear for more than a decade. Hailed in USA Today as one of the 2003 season's new designers favored among celebrity brides, Ms. Kelly has a growing client base that includes individuals who are influencing the worldwide media, art, culinary and political societies. For more information visit Kristie Kelly
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The Video

By now, most of you have probably seen the video of the group of girls beating the other girl in the house. (Turn to CNN if you haven't) Alot of people are shocked but the reality is that this type of thing happens every single day. There are so many angles that I could analyze this from that my head is just spinning. Instead of getting on my "racial coverage in the media" soapbox, I'll stick to the most important issue at hand.I spoke to Leslie Denman, of Girls Living Life on Purpose this afternoon about our shared passion for empowering teen girls. We briefly spoke about violence, since it is apparently an issue in both of our cities. Leslie is in Dallas, and I'm in Philadelphia, but violence is obviously a nationwide issue.I have to admit that I'm kind of torn about my feelings regarding this video, and this is the topic I want to post for discussion. I want to get feedback, because although the video was more than disturbing, I can't help feel terrible for the girls who committed the act. Let me explain. My husband says that I should think about how I would feel if it were my daughter on the tape, and I get that. This was a reprehensible act and they should be punished for it...to the fullest extent of the law. But...what does that help?I look at this situation from everyone's perspective. I cannot stress enough how sorry I feel for the victim, but in my opinion everyone is a victim in this situation. This is such a powerful testimony to the fact that our girls need our help to make positive choices for their lives. Because when you get right down to it, each and every one of those girls made the concrete choice to be involved in that scene. They need guidance. In my work with teens, choices and ACCOUNTABILITY are two of the key areas on which I spend a lot of time. I constantly preach that once they make a choice to do something, they must be able to fully own the consequences, in this case, possible jail time. I try my best to develop a mutually respectful relationship that leads them to trust that the work that we do together is for thier benefit. I hope and pray that if one of my girls were ever in a situation like this, they would be able to think of one of our sessions and walk away.I had to talk about this, but I also want to post a question.Do you think these girls can be reached and empowered, or are they a lost cause?Can everyone be reached, or are there some people who cannot be helped?Thanks for listening.
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