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Want to learn how to avoid leaving money on the table?
Feel the power of negotiating like the Pros!
Date: 12/5/2009
Time: 7:15 PM - 8:15 PM
Location: Glendale Adult Center, Room #104
5970 W Brown St
Glendale, AZ 85302-1249
Contact Bruce (602) 942-9394
Click here for more info:
http://www.christiancarbuying.org/GACOCT09.htm
Freeport-McMoran Copper and Gold and Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon are hosting the 6th-Annual State of Downtown Event on Nov. 17.
Please read the flyer below for more info.
If you have basic experience with the Internet, many of these FREE platforms make it easy for you to choose pre-designed templates and add your text to the Web pages.
You can even sell tickets for your events online (no upfront money) through Websites like Eventbrite.com or solicit donations with the help of PayPal.com.
PhxSoul.com encourages all black business owners to recognize that word-of-mouth marketing can only get you so far. If you have aspirations to find a nationwide or global audience, you need to get on the World Wide Web now!!
How many of you out there own a Website or a blog?
If so, I'm going to clue into a strategy that can help you earn extra money with VERY little work!
All you need is some basic HTML skills, some Web-savvy and a few extra hours per week to implement this strategy from the comforts of your home or office!
I know this sounds like a cheesy infomercial but please trust Mr. PhxSoul.com - this works! I would never try to sell my PhxSoul.com family into a multilevel marketing scam or anything like that!
OK here we go ...
If you have a Website or blog, there's a way for you to make unlimited income through a strategy called Affiliate Marketing. Affiliate Marketing is a partnership between companies that sell products/merchandise online and Website publishers (like yourselves).
The companies that sell products on the Internet constantly want "customers" to visit their Websites so they will buy, buy, buy! If no one is visiting their Websites, then they are losing money!!
In order to drive more "customers" to their Websites, these companies have to come up with creative ways and inexpensive ways to advertise!
That's where YOU the Website Publisher comes in! There are millions of Website Publishers and bloggers in the universe like you! Each one of you has blank space on your Web pages that could be used to advertise for other companies!
If you have some HTML skills and Web-savvy, you can take that blank space and quickly transform it into an area that can earn you a few extra dollars per month!
How??
You place a banner ad, a text link, a video, etc. that links to other Websites that are trying to sell products.
If one of your Website visitors clicks on the banner ad, a text link, a video, etc, and buys a product from the next Website, then YOU can get a COMMISSION!!
So how do you find these e-commerce Websites that want to advertise on your Website?
Through Affiliate Marketing Websites that feature dozens, if not hundreds of companies that want to advertise on YOUR Website.
To get started, you have to sign up for a FREE membership with major Affiliate Marketing Websites like:
There are SO many Affiliate Marketing programs on the Web - I can't list them all!! When you visit any e-commerce Website (where you buy products online), do a quick search for an "Affliliates" link. Click on that to find out how YOU can make money by promoting that company's products and services from YOUR Website! You should NEVER have to pay for a membership with an Affiliate Marketing Website!
These Affiliate Marketing Website programs will require that you have a respectable number of visitors to your Website each month. Be prepared to fill out a form with your personal and Website information.
If you get approved by an Affiliate Marketing Website, then you'll just need to copy the HTML code for the advertising campaigns that will interest your traffic and paste the HTML code on your Website! You'll want to place the ads in HIGHLY VISIBLE areas on your Website so your visitors can see them! You can't make money if your visitors never see the ads!! The Affiliate Marketing Website programs mentioned above will provide you with tutorials.
I encourage you to do more research about Affiliate Marketing before you try it because there are people who have much more expertise than Mr. PhxSoul.com! Again, you should have some basic HTML skills and Web-savvy. If you do your homework, you could make some serious scrilla!
Most importantly, you should have YOUR OWN Website - some programs may allow you to use social media sites like Facebook.com, Twitter.com, etc., but for the most part, you need to have your own Website.
If you need any more proof that Affiliate Marketing works, it's been the main reason that PhxSoul.com has stayed afloat for the last three years!! Millions of Websites do this!
Best of luck to all you online entrepreneurs!!
Submitted by Metamorphie.com
Television commercials advertise tasty snacks and crunchy munchies. Food portions have increased at fast food and dine-in restaurants and even at home we encourage our children to eat everything on their plates.
It appears that as many of our children eat more and more, they participate in activities less. Watching television has taken away from exercising as much and television burns very few calories, especially when a remote is used to change channels and tasty, fattening snacks are consumed while watching television.
We want our youth to be aware of the health issues that can be caused by overeating at an early age so that preventive measures can be taken now to ensure a healthy lifestyle. Children should be aware of wellness and nutrition and staying healthy as well as being able to express their thoughts regarding healthy decisions.
Metamorphie - the Wellness Literary Magazine, written for kids by kids, takes a holistic approach to health and the well being of all children.
The creation of our literary magazine on the web and is geared towards children between the ages of 4-12. The magazine emphasizes values related to a positive way of thinking about wellness, nutrition and fitness and also to enhancing the ability of children to make sound and healthy decisions.
Metamorphie.com wants children to question and share their written thoughts on healthy choices and on healthy lifestyles through submitting and sharing their stories, poems, games, recipes and activities. Not only will these shared activities promote healthy thinking but will also reaffirm reading and writing skills as well.
Information from other Websites and health experts are included on the site regularly. If kids would like to send us material such as their stories, poems, games, recipes and activities centered around health choices, we will post them on our site.
Address all correspondence to:
rjmontgomery, LLC dba Metamorphie.com
P. O. Box 74674
Phoenix, AZ 85087
Do you love all those beautiful curls, but sometimes find it challenging to get them under control? Discover the proper way to care for and style your child or teen's curly locks!
Belle Mélange Salon invites “Kurly Kids” and their parents to the “Kurly Kids Hair Care Crash Course.” Stylists will demonstrate how to manage & style curly hair, offer a one-on-one consultation and recommendations, and discuss styling options for kids and teens with curly tops.
What: Kurly Kids Hair Care Course
When: November 15; December 13
Time: 2 PM
Where: Belle Mélange Salon, 4902 E. Warner Road, Ste. 12, Phoenix
Who can attend?
Children ages 3-16 years old. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent.
What's the benefit?
• Participants can celebrate their curls and feel good about their hair.
• Participants will understand the unique needs of managing curly hair of all types.
• Participants will meet others who have curly tops!
• After completing Kurly Kids Hair Care Crash Course and Kurly Kids Graduate Course, participants will receive their own discount card good towards products and services in the salon.
Good Hair Promotion
From October 23-November 21, Belle Mélange Salon is accepting ticket stubs from Chris Rock's "Good Hair" to receive a discount in the amount of the ticket purchase price. The discount can be used towards any salon service that's $30 or more. Only one (1) ticket per person per day can be redeemed for the discount.
About the Salon
Belle Mélange Salon is a Multicultural Salon that offers hair, nail, and skin care services which include color, hair cuts, relaxers, extensions, manicures, pedicures, waxing, facials, and massage. Owner, Shaunte Fox, opened the Ahwatukee salon to meet the growing needs of a clientele seeking experienced professionals providing the highest standards of customer service satisfaction.
| Kearya Jasper orders a Pistachio gelato from Richard Martin at Simply Unique Gelato & Italian Ice. |
Richard and Diane Martin opened Simply Unique Gelato & Italian Ice, 106 W. Commonwealth St., Chandler, in November 2008.
Believe it or not, Simply Unique Gelato & Italian Ice is one of three black-owned retail locations (Urban Tea Loft, Inspirador) in Historic Downtown Chandler!
I knew I had share the Martins' story with PhxSoul.com readers because I know there are many aspiring African American entrepreneurs in the Valley of the Sun. You have to admit this is a Unique story ... how many black people in Arizona do you know with a gelato shop?
I hope our conversation featured below inspires you to visit Simply Unique Gelato & Italian Ice AND to pursue your dreams!!
Q: What inspired you to open your company?
A: When we came out here, we noticed there wasn’t anywhere you could go to get Italian Ice (which is big in Philly area). That’s when the business idea came to mind. We decided to do the gelato with it once we had a taste of it at another store. Gelato wasn’t very popular at the time, which was great because once it took off, it would be a hot seller.
Q: What kind of research was involved?
A: The hardest work was creating a business plan and finding funding. We researched how to get a license, form a corporation, etc. I attended training classes to learn how to make the gelato and gelato desserts all around the country (New York, Vegas, California and North Carolina). A lot of research was put into finding the right Gelato Company and equipment.
Q: How are you marketing your business to the community (in general)?
A: We are sending out flyers, coupons in the Chandler Santan Sun as well as the Arizona Republic. We placed ads in the Chandler High School newsp aper and we try to do fund raisers and special events. We were recently on Channel 10 (Fox10) Morning Show with Cory.
Q: What successes have you experienced?
A: Most of my success comes from doing special events and word of mouth.
Q: What challenges have you experienced?
A: Keeping customers coming in the door is the most challenging. You have to keep your product fresh no matter what. We try to keep coming up with ways to advertise inexpensively and keep the specials going.
Q: What is the best part of your business day?
A: The evenings are the best part of the day, when you get to talk with your customer base to see what their likes and dislikes are. Finding new ways to come up with flavors you think they might like. Finding out what they do and where they come from. You learn a lot just by listening to them and getting information on the competition.
Q: What is your favorite item on your menu?
A: Our 18 different flavors of gelato.
Q: What is the biggest lesson you've learned as a business owner?
A: You can’t always help those in need. Unfortunately you have to say no to sometimes, (fund raisers, free give always) especially the people you are advertising with. If its not working get rid of it. Not everyone is trust worthy, you have to be aware of the scams that may come up. Everyone wants to be your friend up until the time they get your money.
Q: What advice would you give to current and aspiring black entrepreneurs who want to open a business in the Valley?
A: Make sure you have a passion for what you want to do, then step out on faith and do it. Without passion, there is no vision for doing it correctly. Staying focused is key. Have a well-thought-out business plan. Find a person who has been or is still the business to mentor you. Believe me, you need guidance, direction and lots of prayer. Never be too proud to admit when you need help. Create a checklist of what needs to be accomplished before you start your business. Do your research and ask lots of questions! Stay humble!
To learn more about Simply Unique Gelato & Italian Ice, please visit simply-unique.biz.
As the owner of PhxSoul.com, I'm highly interested in seeing other black businesses succeed. In fact, I want business owners of all races to succeed!
One of PhxSoul.com's goals is to offer this Website as a platform for businesses to promote their products and services to the African American community. I also like to offer advice and ideas that could help!
One of the theories that I've been kicking around lately is the notion that black businesses and customers in the Phoenix area really need to work together to make sure OUR restaurants, hair salons, nightclubs, publications, clothing stores, etc., survive for the long-term!
I'm just going to come out and say it because I know that I speak on behalf of many African Americans in the Phoenix area ...
Many of OUR businesses are doing an excellent job of providing us with the facilities, events, services and products that we want and need! I encourage you to keep on doing what you're doin'!
However, many of OUR businesses are mediocre at best!
Yeah I said it! Many of OUR businesses are not cuttin' the mustard and that's why we are seeing our businesses close at an alarming rate!
Some will not like what I'm writing here, but I'm doing this out of love! I want to see us prosper in Arizona! Sometimes the truth hurts!
I can't tell you how many times I've gone to a black-owned restaurant and received rude customer service! Servers who treat you like they're mad you came, long waits for food and beverages, the bathrooms are disgusting and the food is just average at best. How many times have you heard a server say, "Oh sorry, we're out of that!!" Ahhhh! that drives me crazy!
Right now I'm dealing with a black-owned print shop that is providing some of the slowest service I've ever seen in my life! The job that I requested should have only taken a couple days. Instead, I've been waiting for more than a month! I've had the same work done at Kinko's and it took 24 hours!
The black businesses that have succeeded here for decades have done it because they understand the importance of having a good reputation. They care what their customers think, they adapt and they advertise/market to customers of all races. They only colors they care about are green, silver and copper!
One of the main problems in the Valley's black community is that many of us don't speak up to save our own businesses. I know I've been guilty of this. I've received bad service and didn't say a word to the owners and employees. Instead, I just decided that I would never go back. I know many people do the same. This is just wrong! We can't settle for average treatment!
If I voiced my opinions and told the former owners why their companies weren't up to snuff, maybe they could make changes and maybe they'd still be in business!
We as customers all need to make our expectations known so we are treated with the respect and good service we deserve! We can't afford to let OUR businesses fail! Tell them, "We're not gonna take it! No we aint gonna take it! We're not gonna take it anymore!"
So what exactly can black businesses do to retain customers?
What can black Arizonans do to make sure OUR businesses stay OPEN?
I look forward to your feedback on this blog! If you agree or disagree with PhxSoul.com's opinions, share your thoughts by using the Comments area below!
300 Children at Martin Luther King Elementary School Receive New Book Bags Filled with School Supplies from Staples
Submitted by the Roosevelt Elementary School District
Amar'e Stoudemire recently donated 300 new book bags to the Roosevelt School District.
The Phoenix Suns start visited Martin Luther King Elementary School to personally hand out the bags to the students. Staples generously provided the school supplies for the Amar'e Advantage Program. Local Phoenix store managers Jaime Hallaway, Jennifer Caruso, Lance Hyden, and Jason Schlei helped pack the bags full of pencils, erasers, notebooks, markers and many other fun items. They also delivered the bags to the school cafeteria along with the assistance of Staples District Manager Greg Coates and Staples Executive Administrator Midi Brown.
After the students finished their lunch, Principal Michael Turner welcomed Stoudemire and several special guests, including Roosevelt Superintendent Mary Beyda. Arizona State Representative Cloves Campbell, Jr., and Phoenix City Councilman Michael Johnson were present along with three members of the Roosevelt School District's Governing Board: Betty Thompson, Jimmie Munoz and Norma Munoz.
Before handing out the book bags, Stoudemire spoke to the children about the importance of education. He explained that "reading, writing, and arithmetic are the keys. Your future success will be based on how much you practice these skills now. They are the most important things to learn."
He also encouraged the kids to become great by working hard, listening to their teachers, and doing better in school. Stoudemire concluded his remarks by using himself as an example: "I am still going to classes and learning new things, even though I play basketball."
While they were waiting to get their new book bags, many students guessed what was inside. Some thought there might be basketballs, while others speculated that the bags were filled with glitter. Upon seeing the children's excited faces, Stoudemire commented that he wished he had this kind of opportunity when he was going to elementary school.
"That is the whole reason I give back to the community now, to make things better for these students," he explained.
After all of the students received their new book bags filled with school supplies, Roosevelt School District Governing Board President Betty Thompson thanked Stoudemire: "We are so grateful for your support of public education in our community."
(Phoenix, AZ) Your Better Business Bureau advises consumers on what they should know about the new Cash for Clunkers program before visiting an auto dealership.
On June 24, President Obama signed the Consumer Assistance to Recycle and Save Act of 2009 into law. This is a new government program that will help consumers pay for a new, more fuel-efficient car or truck from a participating dealer when the consumer trades in a less efficient car or truck. Specific guidelines have not been released yet, thus creating confusion among consumers on how they can take advantage of the new program.
“Since the CARS Act, also known as Cash for Clunkers was signed into law in late June, some auto dealerships have used recent press coverage to leverage their advertising of the program with hopes to bring new customers to their lots” said Carrie Lorimer, Director of BBB Operations. “Since not all guidelines have been established yet, it is important that consumers know where and what to look for to determine if the program is something that can benefit them.”
To help consumers carry out their due diligence before the final guidelines are announced, BBB offers the following educational information:
What we know now:
The Car Allowance Rebate System (CARS) is a new program from the government that will help consumers pay for a new, more fuel efficient car or truck from a participating dealer when the consumer trades in a less fuel-efficient car or truck. The act establishes a new program under which the government will provide $3,500 or $4,500 to help consumers purchase or lease a NEW, more fuel-efficient car, van, sport utility vehicle or pickup truck from a participating dealer when they trade in an old, less fuel efficient vehicle.
The program will end November 1, 2009 or when the $1 billion dollars that funds the program is exhausted, which ever comes first. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is developing a method of providing consumers and dealers with information regarding the remaining program funds.
What steps should a consumer follow if they want to buy or lease a new car or truck?
1. Visit www.cars.gov for current information about the program. Not all guidelines have been released; therefore, consumers should visit cars.gov on a regular basis, as information is updated frequently.
2. Determine if they qualify, then shop for a new car.
3. Bring the title, registration and insurance papers showing continued registration and insurance coverage for the past FULL year to the dealership. Dealerships must be registered to be eligible for credit - ask for verification.
4. When a consumer buys or leases a new vehicle, the dealer handles the submission of all required information to NHTSA.
5. NHTSA will ensure that the purchase meets the requirements.
6. About 10 days later, NHTSA will issue a financial credit to dealer, assuming all program requirements have been met.
Who is eligible for credit?
There are several requirements a vehicle must meet to be eligible as a trade-in vehicle. The vehicle must:
All guidelines for the CARS program will be released on or before July 24. Consumers who are considering taking advantage of this program are strongly encouraged to visit the government website for information at www.cars.gov or to call the CARS hotline at (866)-CAR-7891. If a consumer suspects fraud tied to this program, it can be reported by email at hotline@oig.dot.gov or by calling toll free 1-800-424-9071.
About BBB Serving Central, Northern & Western Arizona
BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. Incorporated locally in 1938, today your BBB serves communities in Central, Northern and Western Arizona, supported by over 10,000 BBB Accredited Businesses. BBB provides objective advice, free business BBB Reliability ReportsTM and charity BBB Wise Giving ReportsTM, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust.
Businesses, consumers and brokers said to have been misled by Mesa company
Submitted by Felicia N. Thompson, Director of Marketing & Communications, Better Business Bureau
The Better Business Bureau is alerting businesses and consumers about Mesa company BBZ Resource Management after receiving complaints from 40 states about its gas/grocery gift card voucher program.
BBZ Resource Management claims to help businesses increase sales and retain customers by offering them the opportunity to advertise free gas and grocery gift cards. BBZ hires brokers from the United States and Canada to approach businesses and sell the program in which the companies purchase gift card vouchers to offer to their customers. Complaints filed with Better Business Bureau stem from consumers’ failed attempts to turn the vouchers into redeemable gas and grocery gift cards.
“We have received over 225 complaints about this company from consumers nationwide who have not received their cards or have other issues with the company,” BBB Operations Director Carrie Ann Lorimer said. “More than 100 of those complaints are in still in the dispute resolution process.”
In addition, some BBZ brokers have contacted Better Business Bureau with liability concerns as they also have received complaints from businesses and consumers about delays and non-receipt of the cards.
“After doing some research on the company, we have reason to believe BBZ Resource Management is run by Troy Warren who has been linked to questionable business dealings in the past,” Lorimer said.
Over the past 30 days, BBB has received thousands of requests by phone and web from individuals wanting to read the company’s report. BBZ Resource Management has responded to some complaints, yet the company has an F rating with Better Business Bureau due to the serious nature of some complaints and failure to correct the underlying reason for the complaints. The majority of complaints concern:
Free Gas/Grocery Offer
Retailers who have signed up to participate in BBZ’s voucher program are advertising anywhere from a $100 to $500 free gas or grocery gift card with purchase. Consumers who make a purchase from a participating retailer receive a voucher that instructs them to register online to receive the free gift card(s).
After registering, consumers must then purchase $100 dollars worth of gas a month and send in receipts to BBZ before the end of that month. Once the consumer follows those instructions they are suppose to receive their first $25 gift card. Thereafter they are supposed to receive $25 gas cards each month with a $100 gas purchase until they have received the original advertised amount.
“Essentially there are three groups being misled in this scenario, the business, consumer and the broker,” BBB President/CEO Matthew Fehling said. “It’s unfortunate that honest businesses have gotten caught up in this situation and in turn are losing the trust of their customers. It’s equally as frustrating for the consumers who thought they were making a purchase to redeem gas or groceries and end up empty-handed.”
Better Business Bureau has connected BBZ Resource Management to the following websites:
http://www.freegrocerycenter.com
http://www.freegas4business.com
http://www.gasandgrocerydepot.com
http://www.petroleumpromotions.com
http://www.saveonhealthcare.org
http://www.theworldsoneperfectbusiness.com
http://www.claimyourmerchandise.com
http://www.claimyourgroceries.com
http://freefuelnationwide.com/
http://fuelpromos.com/main/request
Although the company denies affiliation, the duplicate privacy policy on each site connects back to BBZ. On top of that, the company’s letterhead has changed to read Incentive International.
Consumers who wish to file a complaint are encouraged to do so online with Better Business Bureau at www.arizonabbb.org and the Arizona Attorney General’s office at www.agaz.gov. Better Business Bureau advises strong caution to any business considering participation in BBZ Resource Management’s incentive program.
About BBB Serving Central, Northern & Western Arizona
BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. Incorporated locally in 1938, today your BBB serves communities in Central, Northern and Western Arizona, supported by over 10,000 BBB Accredited Businesses. BBB provides objective advice, free business BBB Reliability ReportsTM and charity BBB Wise Giving ReportsTM, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust.
Submitted by Global Black Inventor Research Projects, Inc.
Black Inventors, Crafting Over 200 years of Success, clearly highlights the work of Black inventors from over 70 countries. The author, Keith C. Holmes, has spent more than 20 years researching information on inventions by Black people from Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, Canada, France, Germany, Gambia, Ghana, Haiti, Jamaica, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa to name a few.
This book documents a number of the inventions, patents and labor saving devices conceived by Black Inventors. Africans, before the period of their enslavement, developed: agricultural tools, building materials, medicinal herbs, cloth, and weapons, among many other inventions. Though many black people were brought to Canada, the Caribbean, Central and South America and the United States in chains and under the yoke of slavery, it is relatively unknown that thousands of them engineered labor saving devices and inventions that spawned companies which generated money and jobs, worldwide.
This is one of the first books that addresses the diversity of Black inventors and their inventions from a global perspective. The material available in this book is an introduction to the world of Black inventors. It gives the reader, researcher, librarian, student and teacher the materials needed to effectively understand that the Black inventor is not only a national phenomenon, but also a global giant.
The material available in this book is an introduction to the world of inventions by Black inventors. It gives the reader, researcher, librarian, student and teacher a powerful tool to understand that the Black inventor is not only a national phenomenon, but also a global giant.
Black inventors, from the very beginning of their involvement in the invention and patenting process, have had an important and earth shattering impact on the world. This book highlights the work of early Black inventors from almost all 50 states in the U.S. It gives details about the first Black inventor who obtained a patent in both the Caribbean and the United States. In the United States, to date, 16 African American men have been inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame.
Two of these inventors, Jan E. Matzeliger, (Suriname) and Elijah McCoy, (Colchester, Canada) were born outside the United States.
Recently, Dr. Patricia Bath was nominated to the National Inventors Hall of Fame; yet, an African American woman has not been inducted into this prestigious organization.
Holmes documents the creativity of Black women inventors from Africa, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and the United States, and provides readers with a comprehensive view of the ground-breaking achievements of Black inventors – both male and female.
Finally a cohesive work that chronicles the legacy of black inventors who have played an invaluable role in engineering the technologies of the modern world.
Holmes is available for lectures and book signings. The book sells for $15.00 and can be shipped globally.
For more information, call 646-610-1485, or visit www.globalblackinventor.com or send an e-mail to: info@globalblackinventor.com or kcholmes50@gmail.com.
Within the last two or three years, I've noticed a dramatic increase in the number of networking events geared toward African Americans and business owners who wish to appeal to African Americans in the Phoenix area.
I think it's great to see professionals here trying to utilize these events to establish new contacts and promote their products/services. These networking socials are actually a lot of fun!
However, I wonder how effective these networking happy hours and socials have been for people here.
From an awareness standpoint, these gatherings have been great for PhxSoul.com! They've allowed me to spread the word to thousands of people who may have never heard about my Website! From a monetary standpoint, I haven't seen the "full fruits" of my labor but things are improving. I get positive feedback about PhxSoul.com from almost everyone I meet and that makes everything I do worthwhile.
But I want PhxSoul.com readers to chime in ...
Please feel free to share your answers by clicking on the Comments link below!
Atlanta-based PZI Jeans announces the launch of a unique collection of Skinny Jeans made just for curvy women. PZI Jeans is now offering 10 different styles of Skinny Jeans that are becoming all the rage of curvy fashionistas.
"PZI Jeans was one of the first denim lines to develop a Skinny Jean for curvy women, we have taken it a step further to offer an entire collection of PZI Skinny Jeans, designed especially to meet the fit challenges of curvy women," explains PZI Jeans Co-Founder and Vice President, Claire Jason.
PZI Jeans tested their fit on various models, then fine tuned their fit, adding more fabric in the hips and rear and that special PZI Jeans tapered waist.
"We finally had a Skinny Jean that really fits the not so skinny curvy woman! We were very surprised at our customers' reaction and cannot begin to tell you how fast our PZI Skinny Jean flew off our store's shelves!" explains Jason.
PZI Jeans has definitely mastered the science behind fitting the curvy woman with all of their denim products. As far as the wildly popular Skinny Jeans are concerned, PZI Jeans is currently offering many different styles and colors of Skinny Jeans for curvy women, including the Curve Skinny, The Lindsay Skinny, The Victoria Skinny, The Classic Skinny, The Black Jet Skinny, The Buckle Skinny, The Annie Hall Skinny, The Pewter Skinny, The Olivia Skinny and the Sky Ankle Skinny. PZI Jeans also has priced their jeans at recession friendly prices everyone appreciates, PZI Skinny Jeans retail at $69.00-79.00.
"The industry said curvy women should never wear Skinny Jeans or they would look like an ice cream cone, so many lines did not offer a Skinny Jean for curvy women. Initially we did not offer our customer the Skinny Jean either. But, our customers kept asking for the Skinny Jean. So we started researching, studied and developed the perfect Skinny Jean for curvy women," explains Jason.
Although PZI Jeans designers constantly follow fashion trends they do not take everything written in the media about what a curvy woman should or should not wear to heart.
"The curvy woman's concept of her fashion style is misunderstood by a many in the fashion media, the success of our PZI Skinny Jeans is proof of this fact," says Jason.
About PZI Jeans
Atlanta, Georgia-based PZI Jeans was founded in 2002 by Atlanta Attorney, Daniel C. Jason and his wife, Claire Jason, also an Attorney. PZI Jeans was recently tapped by Inc. Magazine as one of the fastest growing private companies in America. An accolade shared by companies as notable as Microsoft and Oracle.
PZI Jeans are available in sizes 4-16 with short, regular, long and extra-long lengths/inseams so that women short and tall can buy her jeans off the rack with no more costly alterations.
PZI Jeans are available at select Macy's Stores and over 600 retail stores in the United States and overseas with plans to expand into South America. For more information about PZI Jeans, log on to www.pzijeans.com.
Note: Mr. PhxSoul.com doesn't usually post "Letters to the Editor," but since I am not an expert on the subject of black cosmetics products in Phoenix, I wanted to reach out to PhxSoul.com readers to see if you could share your advice. The letter featured below was written by a new resident in the Phoenix area.
Hello,
I recently moved from Seattle by way of LA to the Phoenix area. I was able to find your site and was really happy to see someone put together information for black people regarding culture, music and other events. I am very surprised about the lack options we as women of color have in Phoenix in regards to haircare stores and cosmetics. I was born and raised in Seattle, Washington for God's sake and we had plenty of stores to choose from to by haircare products and make up specifically for black women. Since I was in my teens I was able to go into Rite Aid in downtown Seattle and buy Black Radiance cosmetics. I then switched to Black Opal and was able to buy their products in Seattle as well. I moved to LA for 3 months last year and the only places I could find any Black Opal products were in the "black neighborhoods." When I came to Phoenix, I could not find one store that sold Black Opal. So I e-mailed Black Opal and they stated that the stores they do business with concluded that based on demographics there wasn't a need for Black Opal. These stores were CVS, Walgreen's, Walmart, etc. They informed me that I and other black women should contact the corporate headquarters of these stores. I am just wondering if black women here in Phoenix also see a need for our products to be sold in these stores. I see you had information on black salons, but I wondered if it were possible to ask other women who visit your site if there is any other place that sells cosmetics for women of color. I appreciate your time.
Sincerely,
La Summer Brown
• Don't forget to visit the PhxSoul.com Hair Page and the Local Business Directory for more information about businesses who specialize in African American products and services!
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Note: This is an expanded version of a column that I wrote for the Arizona Black Pages in July 2008.
A key lesson that I’ve learned during my 15-year marketing/communications career is that customers won’t come if they don’t know you exist.
I’m not sure if this common in all black communities but I’ve noticed that in the Phoenix area, African American-owned businesses rarely advertise on television, radio and/or the Internet.
Can you remember the last time that you saw a MAJOR marketing campaign for an African American-owned business in the Valley of the Sun? Think about it for a few seconds … tick, tock, tick, tock, tick, tock …
It seems that instead of advertising on major mediums such as TV, newspapers, magazines or roadside billboards, we prefer to utilize that old-fashioned, “word-of-mouth” strategy to gain customers.
We establish a business and then we HOPE that people will find out about it through a family member or friend! Can your business afford to HOPE that customers will arrive?
I’ll give our African American business owners a lot of credit, we do a GREAT JOB of performing all of the legal, logistical and financial duties to set up our companies here! I’m proud to say that black people in Phoenix have a fantastic entrepreneurial spirit.
However, I don't understand why our companies are afraid to invest more dollars in advertising - especially in these tough economic times! I know businesses think it's smart to cut their advertising budgets now but I say that it's an ideal time to promote your company with a big advertising campaign! Newspapers, television stations, billboard companies and Websites are offering deals while the economy is struggling! Take advantage of the opportunities to increase awareness about your business (at a discount) while you can! The economy will rebound and you'll be in a good position to reap the rewards if you get started now!
We have more than 5 million potential customers (of all races) in the Phoenix area! Why not create MAJOR room in your budget to advertise on local television, in the Arizona Republic or on major radio stations?
Yes, I believe that we should advertise in our black media outlets such as the Arizona Informant, the Arizona Black Pages and PhxSoul.com but we also have to think BIGGER! We can't survive if we don't cater to ALL potential customers here!
If marketing is not your area of expertise, hire experienced consultants to help you!
In the meantime, here are some inexpensive advertising/marketing tips:
You are also welcome to list your company in PhxSoul.com's Online Business Directory or you can purchase a PhxSoul.com Banner Advertising Package to give your company VIP exposure!
Good luck and remember - it's always wise to advertise!
I know how hard it is women for black women to find hair salons here in the Valley of the Sun. PhxSoul.com is tryin' to come to your rescue with a list of hair salons that cater to African Americans.
Of course, there are probably dozens more!
If you'd like to see your favorite hair salon added to this page, PhxSoul.com encourages you to add your information to our Online Business Directory.
HairAdize Salon
2680 S. Val Vista Dr, Bldg 8, Suite 140
Gilbert, AZ 85292
(480) 722-7545
http://www.hairadize.net
Rare Essence Studio
5540 W Glendale, Suite A-105
Glendale, AZ 85301
623.842.2600
http://www.rarebraids.com
Rayha Salon
950 E. Pecos Road
Suite 11 #30
Chandler, AZ
(480) 430-0030
Nanda's Styles Hair Studio
5540 W. Glendale Ave, Suite B-105
Glendale, AZ 85301
(602) 486-9215
(623) 939-6113
Salon Sosa
Specializing in Urban Style
3343 N. 7th Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85013
(602) 266-9208
Faye's Hair Graphics
6363 N. 59th Ave
Glendale, AZ 85301
(623) 931-4618
No Limits Salon
7430 S. 48th St Ste 101
Phoenix, AZ 85040
(602) 454-0450
http://www.nolimitssalon.com
Swank Salon (ask for Bree)
Executive Towers
207 West Clarendon #5
Phoenix, AZ 85013
http://www.swanksalon.info/
Esquire Unisex Salon
1153 E. Jefferson St
Phoenix, AZ
602-495-9002
Knockout Sports Barbershop & Salon
2829 N. 15th Avenue, Phoenix
(602) 265-6325 - Barbershop
(602) 277-5427 - Salon
Elysium Salon Spa
13070 W. Rancho Santa Fe, Suite C-4
Avondale, AZ 85323
(623) 935-5008
Hair Society Barber and Beauty Salon
220 E. Southern Ave # 5
Phoenix, AZ 85040
(602) 243-7470
Symplee Sheerz (By Appointment only)
7029 Litchfield Road
Glendale, AZ 85309
(623) 640-9054
PhxSoul.com also encourages you to visit our Online Business Directory to find other black salons and barbershops in the Phoenix area.
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| Visit Benedire.com Today! |
I'm a big fan of people who utilize their passions to not only make their own lives better, but to also help make the world a better place.
I was recently introduced to a gentleman (thanks K.D.) who is accomplishing this feat, one product at a time!
Cleavon J. Blair is a young African American entrepreneur from the Valley of the Sun who has created Benedire.com, a Website that aims to share God’s Word with the public and His followers by finding fun and interesting ways of getting people to read scripture in the Bible.
Benedire.com offers a set of products (such as t-shirts and coffee mugs) that are very easy on the eyes and are sure to inspire others to crack open their Bibles and to not only read, but also find comfort in the Word of God.
Please take the time to read my "conversation" with Cleavon about Benedire.com ...
Q: What is the purpose of Benedire.com?
A: I like to call Benedire.com its own ministry, meaning its purpose is to bring people closer to Jesus Christ by offering God's Word to an interested public, it just so happens that God's Word appears on a t-shirt or a latte mug, and other products to come.
What I like about our products is that we share a verse from the Bible, but not the scripture itself. We do this purposely as a way to try to get people to open their Bibles and read what the Word of God says.
Also, in Italian, the word benedire means "to bless; to request of God the bestowal of divine favor." We want our products to represent a request of divine favor to others, to be a sort of blessing. For example, a good friend of mine has a younger brother who felt that God wasn't in his corner and getting him the things he needed. My friend sent his younger brother our Matthew 21:22 t-shirt and after receiving the shirt the younger brother called his older brother and thanked him for the shirt, but most importantly, he thanked his older brother for sending him a reminder of what God says, "If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer." The younger brother had to have faith that what he needed would always be provided to him, and that it is his faith in the Lord that will get him what he needs, and he was wise enough to see that. That, to me, is the purpose of Benedire.com…
Q: Why should people buy merchandise from Benedire.com?
A: I would love for people all across this country, the world even, to support Benedire.com. Not just for the business side of it, but truly to share the Word of God with others.
To often people hide Christianity in their back pockets because society around us keeps telling us it is not ok to publicly support Christianity, as if it (Christianity) is offensive or something and I just don't believe in that. It seems to be ok for people to support everything else that they believe in, and I personally want to publicly support Jesus Christ because I've been through a few things in my life. Had it not been for Christ, I know I probably wouldn't be here today to reflect on my past. In short, Christ "got a brotha through", and I am very thankful and grateful for God's Grace and Love, and I want to publicly acknowledge that, so that He knows my love and appreciation is REAL. There are others who feel this way, so I want them to have a vehicle to do the same.
There are other vendors out there who have tons of products with Bible verses and scripture on them, and if consumers feel compelled to purchase from those vendors, then that is ok because at the end of the day, it is all about the words that appear on the products. We, Benedire.com, just want to do our part, to offer products to consumers, Christians who might feel that they are underserved by other vendors or their products. Our products don't overwhelm you with graphics and colors, etc, and that's the beauty of what we're doing. We provide products that are simple, yet classy, with an emphasis on the true purpose – sharing God's Word.
Q: When did the Benedire.com concept first pop into your head and when did you begin selling the shirts?
A: 4 years ago, when I was living in Chicago, I wanted to purchase a shirt with some biblical scripture on it, but the shirts that I found were not to my liking. The shirts I found were so loud with the prints that I couldn't find the scripture on them, which, in my opinion, totally negated the purpose of the shirt. That day I told myself I would have a line of products that plainly and clearly stated God's Word; something simple, yet classy that could be worn whether a person was dressed up or dressed down. In short, I wanted something that would state God's Words, but still allow me to "get my grown man on."
With life and everything else happening, it took 4 years to start selling our t-shirts. I mean, it was only last year (2006) that I started seriously looking for reputable, local printers and started ordering t-shirt samples. We went through the design process earlier this year, which was somewhat tough, but a fun process in coming up with the design of the shirts, which led us to a quiet launch of this line of business on December 13, 2007.
Q: Is Benedire.com turning over a high number of sales?
A: As I stated earlier, Benedire.com was launched on December 13, 2007, which was just a few weeks ago. We have done no marketing at this point, and I'm proud to say that we've sold over 175 shirts and 30 latte mugs across the country.
While this isn't an extraordinary number of product sold compared to what some of the bigger retailers do, it is substantial to us because it gives us a sort of grass roots support of our products, which, to me, is a great way to launch a product because you have a genuine opportunity to build brand loyalty over the long term.
Now don't get me wrong, if we were to receive 1000 orders a day for the next 4 - 6 months, I would not be unhappy with that.
Q: How do you market your products to the public?
A: As I stated earlier, we haven't done any marketing with our Benedire.com products yet. Our marketing strategy and plan will kick into gear at the end of January 2008. We will be advertising in industry-specific magazines as well as sending collateral and product samples to several Christian organizations around the country.
In the very near future, we hope to license resellers (churches, Christian bookstores, etc.) to resell product for us. Also, I would love for us to sell through a vehicle like Amazon.com, but we are too small for that at the moment, but we will definitely get there, and very soon…
Q: Do you have a home church in the Valley?
A: I attend First Institutional Baptist Church in Phoenix, AZ.
Q: Do any of your proceeds go to charities?
A: We have short-term and long-term donation goals for Benedire.com.
In the short-term, we will select a new organization each year for 3 years to donate a percentage of sales to. This year, we've selected the St. John Missionary Baptist Church of Springfield, OH as the organization to receive our donations, of which will be distributed quarterly.
Long-term, we'd like to establish our own charitable organization of which we can donate funds to. This organization will be used to directly help individuals, rather than us donating monies to a larger organization. We want to be able to help people in a more definable way, such as, paying someone's mortgage for 3 – 6 months, or buying someone's groceries for a year, or making their car payment for a year. Not necessarily taking the costs away forever, but giving a family or an individual an opportunity to "take a break" for a few months and possibly save a little extra money. We are a couple of years away from doing this, but that is our goal…
Q: Can you tell us about your personal life?
A: Well, I'm a married father of one little girl, and I live in the Valley byway of Ohio (how 'bout those Buckeyes!!!). I'm a graduate of Bowling Green State University (Go Falcons) in Bowling Green, OH with degrees in Business Administration and Computer Science.
As far as community service is concerned, all I've done is try to be a respectful member of society and help in ways that I'm able to.
I encourage you to visit Benedire.com and support Cleavon's efforts for success - in the businessworld and the community!
I know there are numerous barbers who cater to African Americans in the Phoenix area. I'm compiling a list to help black people know where to go when we need our "hair did!"
If you have a reputable, LICENSED barber that you want to add to PhxSoul.com, please visit our Online Business Directory!
Ageez Hair Center (two locations)
1368 N. Arizona Ave, Suite 102
Chandler, AZ 85225
(480) 857-3171
542 W. Southern Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85041
(602) 323-0511
Anthony Gathers (proprietor) is a Valley legend - he and his staff take pride in their work. If you want your fades, tapers and razor lines done right, go to Ageez!
Arthur's Hair Design
802 S. 15th Ave.
Phone: (602) 262-9157
Phoenix, AZ
Even though he's a Sun Devil, I gotta give Master Barber Arthur Knox, Jr. his props, he is one of the best in the Valley! I received a lot of compliments after getting my haircut by Arthur. I can see why he has a high-profile clientele.
24th Street Braid & Fade
Located at 5037 S. 24th Street (corner of 24th Street and Roeser Road), Phoenix.
Phone: 602-243-9984
One of the nicer barbershops in the Phoenix area. The barbers are friendly and they take their time to cut your hair right.
Esquire Barber Shop
1153 E Jefferson St, Phoenix
(602) 495-9002
I've been going here since I was a young buck - the staff treats you like family! Esquire caters to a more mature crowd but people of all ages go here. Every now and then, you'll see a celebrity here.
Knockout Sports Barbershop & Salon
2829 N. 15th Avenue, Phoenix
(602) 265-6325 - Barbershop
(602) 277-5427 - Salon
I love watching the games while gettin' my shadow fade! They do your hair right here and take pride in their work!
Fade Tite Barbershop
1712 E Broadway Road # 3, Phoenix
(602) 276-9982
Nappy By Nature Barbershop
2013 W Bethany Home Road, Phoenix
(602) 995-9094
Studio B's Another Level Barber & Beauty Salon
4146 N 67th Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85033-3313
(623) 849-7191
Brandon and crew have a down-home barber shop on the West Siiiiide! They definitely hooked me up right when I made my visit in Oct. 2009. I'll definitely be back!
Cut To AT Barber Shop
710 W Elliot Road, Suite 103
Tempe, AZ
(480) 820-4825
Hair Society Barber and Beauty Salon
220 E. Southern Ave # 5
Phoenix, AZ 85040
(602) 243-7470
In the heart of south Phoenix - one of the best-known spots in the Valley for black hair care and black hair-care products.
Symplee Sheerz
7029 Litchfield Road
Glendale, AZ 85309
623.640.9054
Symplee Sheerz is the premiere Barber and Hair Salon serving the far West Valley areas of Glendale, Litchfield Park, GoodYear and Surprise, Az. All hair types welcome! Hours of Operation:
For Barber Services: 9-6pm Tuesday-Saturday Walk-ins and Appointments; For Salon Services: By Appointment only.
Did you know that Scottsdale is home to an African American museum? Yeah, I was shocked when I first heard about it too!
However, I finally made a visit in October 2007 to the African American Multicultural Museum, 617 N. Scottsdale Road, and my shock turned to pride after my experience there.
The African American Multicultural Museum offers an incredible opportunity to not only learn about African and African American culture, but you can also hear about and see the influences of all races and cultures on our world today. The numerous artifacts in the museum give you a glimpse into how our ancestors lived, hunted, made music and socialized thousands of years ago.
The African American Multicultural Museum's mission is "Fellowship through Education."
If you are involved with an organization that's looking for a unique environment to host a social event while learning about our history, I'd definitely recommend that you contact Ed Van Dyke and his staff. There is no fee to visit, but the museum gladly accepts donations.
Please click here to learn more about the African American Multicultural Museum today!
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If you're big fan of hamburgers, or I should say, if you're a big fan of BIG hamburgers, you need to hit this "little" spot in Phoenix called, Delux Burger!
I've known about Delux Burger for years, driven by hundreds of times, but on Sunday, July 29, I finally decided to go inside. That was probably one of the best decisions I've made in a long, long time!
Delux Burger has a contemporary, art deco, South Beach Miami feel to it. You can sit at your own table inside or on the patio, you can post up at the community table in the middle of the restaurant or you can kick it at the bar. I can honestly say this was the prettiest hamburger joint I've ever seen! I saw a mix of families, couples, old and young people eatin' burgers like they were in heaven! And if you're a single man or woman, you're definitely gonna see some eye-candy at Delux.
I ordered the Standard Classic with the delux basket of mixed fries (a combination of sweet potato and ordinary french fries) and I have to say it was one of best burgers I've ever tasted. The burgers are made with Harris Ranch premium beef - I don't know what that means but I wouldn't feel right about eating at McDonalds or Jack In the Box ever again! These burgers almost melt in your mouth, but they'll leave you very full!
Fellas, I wouldn't necessarily call Delux Burger a "first-date" destination, but after a few outings with your favorite girl, you definitely need to take her here for lunch or dinner. If you bring your significant other, you should share the basket of fries, there's more than enough for two in that basket! Delux Burger seems like a good hangout for a group of close friends or for businesspeople.
I didn't try any of the beers there, but the selection at the bar had me salivating! I went to Delux after church so I knew it wouldn't be right to be guzzlin' some Stella Artois after givin' thanks to the Lord, ya feel me? But you will see me there for happy hour real soon!
OK, so you're probably wonderin' if there's somethin' wrong with this joint. Well, you know that sayin, "you get what you pay for?" Well, bring some loot to this place because it aint cheap. I dropped about $35 for two people and we shared the basket of fries! But for you true ballas out there, 35 bones aint nuthin', right?
If you got the late-night munchies, make the trip to Delux. It's open everyday until 2 AM!
Delux Burger, 3146 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix.
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I love me some regular buttered popcorn, but you can take this tasty snack to another level when you mix it up with different flavors like chocolate, banana, cheese, pineapple and strawberries!
If you have East Coast roots, I'm sure wonderful memories "pop" into your head when you think about gourmet popcorn! Well, you don't have to leave Phoenix to get gourmet popcorn anymore!
My friends Qiana Shaw and Roy Wilson opened their Poppa Maize Gourmet Popcorn store on May 1, 2007 in order to bring spice and variety to their beloved popcorn and share it with Valley residents.
Poppa Maize Gourmet Popcorn is located on the northwest corner of 19th Avenue and Greenway Road in Phoenix (15414 N 19th Avenue, Ste P, Phoenix). If you don't feel like driving to the north side, you can visit their Website - poppamaize.com - to buy bags and gift baskets of their popcorn. They'll ship anywhere in the United States.
Roy and Qiana first discussed the idea of establishing the Poppa Maize Gourmet Popcorn store over dinner Valentine's day 2006. Roy wanted to do something like this since he was a child. After a year of planning and hard work, their dream came true!
Anyone who has an adventurous and curious spirit will enjoy their popcorn! I love the White Chocolate and S'mores flavors.
Poppa Maize's flavors include:
When you get a chance, make sure you drop by the Poppa Maize store!
If you'd like to see your food/catering company listed on PhxSoul.com, please add your information to our Online Business Directory.
What did mama always tell you? Breakfast is a great way to start the day!
If you had a late night (I don't need to know what happened) and don't feel like cooking early in the morning, here's my Five Best Breakfast Spots in the Valley of the Sun.
5. Matt's Big Breakfast, 801 N. 1st Street, Phoenix
The food is great (check out the pancakes), the prices are low and I always love to be in the downtown area. The staff is nice and it's always to be among a diverse crowd. However the restaurant is small - really small - and the lines are long! If you're in a hurry, you'll probably want to go somewhere else.
4. Lo-Lo's Chicken & Waffles, 10 W. Yuma Street, Phoenix
Chicken, waffles, grits, eggs and sweet tea! That's all you need to know! The food makes you hummm while you eat. I've heard people break out with some serious melodies up in there! The service aint all that great, but what else do you expect from a soul food joint?
3. Morning Glory Cafe (Farm at South Mountain), 6106 S. 32nd Street, Phoenix
Glory! If you haven't been to the Farm at South Mountain, you're missin' out on an experience! Something about that place just makes you feel at peace with yourself. It's located south of Southern Avenue on 32nd Street. I'd encourage you to wear relaxed clothes (leave your Sunday best at home) when you go to the Farm because you'll be eating outside. If you're trying to romantic, you could bring a blanket for you and your significant other while you eat underneath one of the trees in the expansive grove. Try the Breakfast Burrito, one of the Omelettes or my favorite - the Belgian Waffle. I love this place! Be sure to call during the summer season to see if the Farm at South Mountain is open!
2. Over Easy, 4031 N. 40th St., Phoenix
One bite of the food and it'll be easy for you to see why this place is one of the top breakfast spots in Phoenix. I actually like the fact that the outdoor patio is the main eating spot. May not be so comfortable in the summer, but the patio is a great place to enjoy your food any other time of the year. I had the pancakes and sausage and the portions are big. You'll probably have to wait a while if you have a BIG party because Over Easy is a small restaurant.
1. Breakfast Club, 4400 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale
Best breakfast joint in all of Phoenix! The food, the service, the prices, the atmosphere ... what?! It's just nice to eat breakfast at a place where people seem to really take pride in what they're doing. No offense to the other restaurants because they got skills too. I've just always had good experiences at this place and recommend it to anyone. After breakfast, you can walk to the Fashion Square or Waterfront, walk to the numerous art galleries in the area, hang out at some of the bars in the area or just chill there.
Be sure to leave your feedback on my breakfast blog! If you have any other recommendations, let us know!
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