Publisher’s Message
Earl “Skip” Cooper, II
Pubisher/Chief Executive Officer
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n a monthly basis we receive emails and letters from readers of the Black Business News, requesting information on business finance strategies and, more specifically, access to affordable capital. Although the nation continues to experience historically low
interest rates for debt finance, securing adequate capital still is a major challenge for many African American businesses throughout the country. This situation is further compounded
92% of the City of Los Angeles’ $2.1 billion in contracts. In the city of Los Angeles, as well as the County of Los Angeles, numerous diversity programs have been initiated to increase minority participation with the awards of contracts. However, given that are really no penalties for non-compliance, most of these programs are largely unenforceable and not incentive-based. It should be noted that Los Angeles has the second highest concentration of minorities of all major cities and yet it still lags behind other major metropolitan centers in contracts awarded to African American business. The City of Angels is not so great for black businesses. Nevertheless, one sector of our economy where black businesses have a substantial vested interest is the entertainment industry. On June 28-30, 2013, Black Entertainment Television (BET) will be hosting its first BET Experience at AEG Live! In Los Angeles, California. The Black Business Association (BBA), headquartered in Los Angeles, is one of the community partners for the BET Experience. For more information about the BET Experience, please go to http://www.bet.com/shows/ bet-awards/bet-experience. html. AEG Live! is a state of the art entertainment venue that houses the Staples Center, Nokia Theatre, Grammy Museum, and host of other attractions. As an aside: it Mary Ann Mitchell would be great if the NAACP and “Skip” Cooper would take note and move their Image Awards also to case in Los Angeles, as reported the AEG Live. Other happenings that we by Bloomberg News last month. According to published reports, should also be aware of include firms owned by white men in Los that, in Washington, D.C. and Angeles, who represent 14% of other selected U.S. Cities, June the city’s population, were awarded by the fact that regulators, more than the lending institutions, have significantly increased underwriting requirements and lending standards at a time when many business owners are still in recovery from our most recent economic downturn. While many African American businesses would like to expand their business operations with an infusion of much needed capital, many are hesitant due to the uncertainties of legislation coming out of Washington D.C. and their own states. In many cases, business owners are feeling overwhelmed by additional paperwork due to increased regulations, changes in tax codes, and growing levels of compliance. Ironically, in this period of increased oversight and regulation, there is a more glaring lack of oversight with regard to diversity in minority contracting. This is undeniably the
3 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net
see Publisher’s Message on page 4
Publisher’s Message from page 3
16-22, 2013 has been designated as National Small Business Week. During this week, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will celebrate America’s entrepreneurial spirit, and recommit to helping our small businesses get a head. For more information, please visit the SBA website at http://www.sba.gov . Additionally, one strong partnership of the African American business community derives from our connection with religious organizations. In support of those relationships in Los Angeles, the Black Business Association, a California based nonprofit organization, has formed the “Community Church Committee”, to provide an enhanced linkage for our black churches and their members to do more business with black businesses. Lastly, I would be remiss if I did not mention the fifth anniversary this month of the passing of a remarkable woman and business leader who was very close to me. Every time I think about, or hear the name “Mary Ann Mitchell”, two things immediately come to mind. First, her generosity of time and resources to family and friends and, second, her commitment that is evident even today
to the contributions she made for so many. Needless to say, remembering Mary Ann Mitchell lifts my heart, as she is nothing short of legendary. It is such a good feeling, knowing how Mary Ann’s legacy remains a valued aspect in the lives of everyone she touched. Her everlasting energy is the heart and soul of the team that was drawn to surround her, as her tireless will to
have us all aspire to do good work lives on. (see page 44) The Black Business News, coming to you this month in celebration of Black Music Month (also known as African American Music Appreciation Month), will continue to provide you updates on relevant developments as they pertain to African American businesses. Wishing a healthy and prosperous month to us all!
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About
ABOUT THE BLACK BUSINESS NEWS… The mission of The Black Business News is to inspire and inform public and private sector industry representatives on the importance of smart small business growth. As a versatile source of socioeconomic development activity, the Black Business News imparts current local, national and international industry trends related to small businesses across the United States of America (USA), detailing greater access to financial capital, management efficiencies, business education, mentors and networks. The goals of the Black Business News include: •
• • •
•
Black Business News P.O. Box 43159, Los Angeles, CA 90043 323-291-7819 Fax: 323-298-5064 www.blackbusinessnews.net
PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Earl “Skip” Cooper, II
ASSOCIATE EDITOR Sarah Harris
ENTREPRENEUR EDITOR
increasing the use of business enterprises owned by USA-based blacks, by advocating for greater access to leading finance lenders and successful business managers.
ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
working to merge resources, values, profits, technology throughout the public and private sectors.
PRODUCTION MANAGER
balancing major public and private sector contracting methods with positive outcomes of black-owned and operated enterprises.
LaSandra Stratton • Dean Jones • Linda Ware
gproviding an affirmative influence for emergn ing entrepreneurs sharing innovative design and creative cultural content that exposess d them to the history of black enterprises and excite them to participate in the USA’s future.. advocating and promoting on behalf off black-owned businesses by promoting the need for expanding an economic foundation that supports an unfettered and self-sustained urban society with USA job creation and economic opportunity, where blacks work, live and operate viable business enterprises.
WWW.BLACKBUSINESSNEWS.NET
Kim Anthony Belinda Foster Narishima Osei
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS GRAPHIC DESIGN Sarah Harris • Phallu Morgan
STORY EDITORS Wanda Flagg ▪ Jennifer Marie Hamilton
PHOTOGRAPHY Ian Foxx ▪ Sabir • Narishima Osei
CONTENT ADMINISTRATOR La Sandra Stratton
LAYOUT/TYPESETTING Lion Communications Copyright © 2012 by Black Business News All Rights Reserved. The posting of stories, commentaries, reports, documents and links (embedded or otherwise) on this site does not in any way, shape or form, implied or otherwise, necessarily express or suggest endorsement or support of any of such posted material or parts therein.
African-American Music Appreciation Month, 2013
Contents
AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSIC APPRECIATION MONTH 2013
JUNE 2013 3
Publisher’s Message
BLACK MUSIC… 12-20
African American Music Appreciation Section
GOVERNMENT… 22 26 30 31 33
Promoting American Innovation
36 38 45 53 55 66 69
Black Buying Power Rising
Susan Rice, National Security Advisor SBA Streamlines Loan Process & Cuts Fees Help for Veterans to Become Entrepreneurs Tips for Veterans on Selling to the Federal Gov’t
BUSINESS… 75
7 Ways to Start Your Own Business African Americans Lead in Internet Use Improve Your Elevator Pitch Tech Tools to Up Productivity Now! On Target - Michael Jackson”s Estate Plan New App Builds National Black Business Directory
PUBLIC INTEREST/COMMUNITY…
COLUMNS 72 - Take A Look! 117 - Books to Consider... 118 - Calendar 120 - Resources ACTION ALERTS 41 - AEG Supplier Portal SPONSORS 10 - Black Business Association Cover image - Phallu Morgan
73 Cecily Tyson Wins Tony 74 President Barack Obama, Father-In-Chief 79 “McDiet” Works me 80 Let’s Move! - Harvest Time
INTERNATIONAL… 84 86
See Africa in a New Light Team Supports Nigeria’s Tech Startups
90
Broadcast, Film & Music Africa Conference
99
Somali Famine Report
68
9 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
profits, technology and people; •
Promoting development and support of minority business enterprises within the domestic and international economies by encouraging and generating greater access to market opportunities and capital;
•
Providing training for entrepreneurial professional development;
•
Supporting and contributing to the economic base and progress of the African-American community; and
•
Developing coalitions that support our political endeavors to effectively achieve public recognition and political influence for African-American business owners.
Over 40 years of service Founded 1970
About the BBA…
Since 1970, the Black Business Association (BBA), a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization, headquartered in Los Angeles, has been instrumental in the incubation and development of more than 15,000 African-American businesses. Nationally, we have access and influence with more than 85,000 African-American-owned and women/minority-owned firms via strategic alliances with more than 100 women/minority trade associations in more than 42 states nationwide.
___ Our Mission ___ The Black Business Association’s mission is to advocate and promote the development of African-American owned businesses with the goal of creating a firm economic base that support the self-determination and survival of the African-American and urban community by: •
Identifying and creating financial opportunities for the growth and stability of African-American owned businesses;
•
Being a community voice that advocates for the success of small businesses;
•
Being a conduit for the merging of resources, values,
___ Advocacy ___ The Black Business Association maintains very effective working relationships with elected and appointed officials for the support of African-American business development. Locally, statewide and in Washington, DC, we are constantly aware of pending legislation that might affect our member’s businesses, their growth and even their ability to conduct business. When legislation is being considered that affects our mission, the BBA quickly mobilizes to work with key policy makers to support, defeat or modify the bill and pursue the BBA position. As an organization, we are constantly at the helm, securing innovative means and policies that protect our constituency and their business interests.
Coming Events 2013
October/Novenber
Procurement Summit & Awards Luncheon Black Business Association P.O. Box 43159, Los Angeles, CA 90043 USA Tel: 323-291-9334 Fax: 323-857-4610
• Call 323-291-9334 for information on sponsorship and participation •
mail@bbala.org www.bbala.org www.facebook.com 11 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
African-American Music Appreciation Month, 2013
THE WHITE HOUSE AFRICAN-AMERICAN MUSIC APPRECIATION MONTH, 2013 BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION
S
ince our Nation’s founding, people from every walk of life have set out to capture the American experience not just in poetry or prose, but also in the timeless quality of song. When the outcome of a revolution hung in the balance, drums and fifes filled brave patriots with the strength to carry on. When slavery kept millions in bondage, spirituals gave voice to a dream of true and lasting freedom. Through every generation, music has reflected and renewed our national conversation, bringing us together and reminding us of the humanity we share.
African Americans have always had a hand in shaping the American sound. From gospel and Motown to bebop and blues, their story is bound up in the music they made -- songs of hurt and hardship, yearning and hope, and struggle for a better day. Those feelings speak to something common in all of us. With passion and creativity, African-American performers have done more than reinvent the musical styles they helped define; they have channeled their music into making change and advancing justice, from radio booths to the stage to our city streets. That story is still unfolding today. We see it in the young poet putting his words to a beat; the conservatory student perfecting her technique; the jazz musician making old melodies new again. During AfricanAmerican Music Appreciation Month, let us celebrate these artists and the generations who inspired them, and let us reflect on our heritage as a Nation forever enriched by the power of song. NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim June 2013 as African-American Music Appreciation Month. I call upon public officials, educators, and all the people of the United States to observe this month with appropriate activities and programs that raise awareness and foster appreciation of music that is composed, arranged, or performed by African Americans. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand thirteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-seventh.
BARACK OBAMA
13 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Special Section - Black Music Month
The Economic Origins of Black Music Month The man who helped create it tells us that marketing was always the goal. The rest is gravy. Hillary Crosley is the New York bureau chief at The Root.
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ince 1979, June has been designated as Black Music Month. The annual celebration was the result of a collaboration between songwriter and producer Kenneth Gamble, of Gamble and Huff, and broadcasters Ed Wright and Dyana Williams, who lobbied then-President Jimmy Carter for a month, like Country Music Month in October, that celebrated the business of African Americans in entertainment. Fortunately for the trio, they had friends in high places. The Root spoke to Gamble about how Black Music Month was born, what the first celebration at the White House was like and whether the annual observance remains relevant. The Root: What was the catalyst for beginning Black Music Month in 1979? Kenneth Gamble: The Black Music Association was a trade association at the time, and it was an educational forum for young producers and writers where they could discuss the benefits of the music industry. History says that most African Americans in the industry were robbed of their songs and their property. The Black Music Association spoke to the marketing of black music. The whole theme was “Black Music Is Green,” and it dealt with the economics of AfricanAmerican music. It was very helpful not only to us but also the industry
Kenneth Gamble
at large. Then the Black Music Association created Black Music Month, which was another original, because October was Country Music Month. What happens when you have a music month? You get additional marketing dollars, and it helps to market and promote the artists. It’s still working, because right now we’re talking about something that started 34 years ago. The Root: Your BMA team petitioned for one year to push President Carter to institute Black Music Month. What was your convincing argument? Kenneth Gamble: There was a guy named Clarence Avant who was pretty close to the Democratic politicians like Carter. The administration had a country music night at the White House, so I called and asked, “Hey, Clarence, can you get us a black-music night at the White House?” Thank God he was successful, and it was a beautiful night on the White House lawn. The Root: What were some of the songs performed that night back in June 1979? Kenneth Gamble: Chuck Berry was there, so he did “Lucille,” playing his guitar. Little Richard was there, and Evelyn “Champagne” King was a young artist then, so she sang her first or second record. Billy Eckstine, who’s a legend, he sang, too. The whole atmosphere of the evening
reflected an idea whose time had come, and it was good to see the whole music industry there and celebrating this original American music. When you talk about jazz, the blues and rhythm and blues, this is what America produced, and it has influenced many other types of music. The Root: Did President Carter have an awkward dance moment, like former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton? Kenneth Gamble: No, he was pretty cool. He just sat and enjoyed the music. It was a great night because it gave the country an opportunity to celebrate the music that so many people had stolen from the rightful creators, so we could give credit where it was due. I think it was a great move on Jimmy Carter’s behalf ... The Root: You mentioned the marketing dollars allocated by companies in support of Black Music Month. Do you think those efforts are still needed, or is Black Music Month primarily a cultural celebration today? Kenneth Gamble: It’s absolutely still needed. Fortunately, so many institutions have created their own Black Music Month agenda, celebrating people like Miles Davis or Bessie Smith. It’s a time to remember the great African-American artists and the contributions that we’ve made to American music.
14 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
African-American Music Appreciation Month, 2013
Special Section - Black Music Month
KIRK FRANKLIN: Countdown to Gospel Unplugged at the BET EXPERIENCE LIVE 2013 By Linda Ware
K
irk Franklin is one of Gospel’s most popular artists, musicians, and producers on record with an impressive longevity factor that has kept him at the top tier of successful artists in the genre of today’s Gospel music. Franklin, a native of Fort Worth, Texas, has won 9 Grammy Awards to date including a double win in 2012 where he walked to the Grammy stage twice to receive the award for Best Gospel Album for “Hello Fear” and a second award for a single from the same album release which features other Gospel stars including Marvin Sapp, Marva Winans, Mali Music, John P. Kee and Bishop Rance Allen. In addition to multiple Grammys received in recognition of his outstanding original gospel releases, Franklin has been honored as a recipient of a myriad of awards including BET Awards, Stellar Awards and Dove Awards. Franklin is a busy man these days as he is on a fast paced rehearsal schedule in full production mode...
a n d rightfully so. He is gearing up to travel in to Hollywood, California for this year’s innovative and unprecedented BET AWARDS presentation which this year will encompass a 3 day festival of celebration of African American Music, entitled, BET EXPERIENCE 2013. Franklin is working 24/7 in preparation for a spectacular headlining presentation during this year’s mega performance schedule, the first of its kind for Black Entertainment Television. In addition to the 3 day event, BET is moving its prestigious awards show from the traditional Shrine Auditorium to the new high tech facilities of AEG’s popular concert venues at the hip and trendy L.A. Live in Los Angeles, California. Franklin is no stranger to live tours
with his notable record of sell out live concerts throughout the world touring with the power sounds of his highly acclaimed gospel choir. Franklin will take the stage at 12 noon to headline the Sunday Best at the BET EXPERIENCE at AEG’s L.A. Live on June 30th. His show, “Kirk Franklin and Friends” will include other popular gospel stars of the day lighting the stage up with praise songs in the current gospel sound which promises to be a praise stomping high energy show. Other stars joining Franklin include Karen Clark-Sheard, Amber Bullock, Joshua Rogers, and Grammy Award Winning Gospel artist, Donnie McClurkin, who toured with Franklin on his national sold out concert series of 2012 “The King’s Men Tour”.
16 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Special Section - Black Music Month
Beyoncé: Mrs. Carter Headlines BET EXPERIENCE 2013 Live By Linda Ware
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eyoncé is recognized as one of the top female artists of the decade selling over 75 million records worldwide in her career so far. As a Grammy Award winning singer and entertainer, Beyoncé has picked up 16 Grammy Awards, 11 MTV Music Video Awards, 3 American Music Awards, and a prestigious Billboard Millennium Award. After the success with the launch of the “Mrs. Carter Tour” overseas, Beyoncé is set to kick off her North American Tour live at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California on Friday, June 28, 2013 during this year’s blockbuster BET EXPERIENCE 2013. With the success of her longstanding music career including the current whirlwind mega tour and her husband’s global success as a rapper, entrepreneur and record producer of today’s top artists, Beyoncé and Jay Z have arrived to
become the richest star couple in the entertainment industry. It is no doubt that during her major performance at Staples Center she will be sporting original designs
from her popular fashion company, The House of Dereon,noted for its progressive strides in providing creative elegant fashion for ready to wear as well as evening apparel.
17 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Special Section - Black Music Month
The Jacksons Celebrate Their Legacy with Live Concert at BET EXPERIENCE 2013 By Linda Ware
T
h e Jacksons represent one of the most legendary singing groups in the history of black entertainment. Jermaine, Tito, Jackie, Marlon Jackson introduced themselves to America with a string of back to back top 10 hit records in the early 1970’s that solidified their position
as one of the most pioneering and longstanding R&B groups of all time.
The Jacksons are bringing their power of nostalgia and downright c o n c e r t showmanship to the forefront of this year’s BET Awards with their slated live concert performance scheduled for the 2013 BET EXPERIENCE at AEG’s L.A. Live. Their concert will celebrate their longevity and musical popularity
performing their most memorable Motown hits as well as honoring the legacy of their brother and former lead singer of the group, the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. They will close out the BET EXPERIENCE 2013 series performing on the bill with R. Kelly and New Edition live at the Staples Center in Los Angeles on Sunday, June 30, 2013. ENJOY YOURSELF, I WANT YOU BACK, ABC, NEVER CAN SAY GOODBYE and other timeless songs will ring through AEG’s L.A. Live in a show that sources say will be one of the group’s most spectacular concert performances to date.
18 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Special Section - Black Music Month
Erykah Badu Slated For Late Night Neo Soul Concert at BET EXPERIENCE 2013 By Linda Ware
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he captured urban and general audiences throughout America with her sensational and memorable acting performance in the hit film, The Blues Brothers 2000. She breathed life into R&B giving birth to a new extension of the mainstay genre, Neo Soul, representing a mixture of her eclectic style merging hip-hop, R&B, and jazz into a new musical truth; and with her top Billboard single, ON AND ON, holding its position in its debut, Erykah Badu earned the title of the First Lady of Neosoul. Badu is set to bring her finesse, afro centric femininity, sister wisdom, and more to present a NEOSOUL EXPERIENCE with her late night concert officially scheduled during this year’s BET EXPERIENCE 2013 Live at AEG’s L.A. Live. Badu will bring her no nonsense poetic truth poised to the rhythms of neo soul to the stage at the popular Club Nokia at 11pm on June 28, 2013 following Beyoncé’s performance at Staples Center. 19 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
African-American Music Appreciation Month, 2013
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21 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Government
Taking on Patent Trolls to Protect American Innovation
President Barack Obama pointed his finger at patent trolls, people and businesses who file patents and use them to aggressively sue others who produce potentially competing products, during a Google Hangout.
O
ur patent system — as enshrined in our Constitution — is meant to encourage innovation and invention. It was designed to reward Americans for their hard work, risk-taking and
genius. It has spurred progress that has driven economic growth and transformed the way we live, work, communicate, and stay healthy. But in recent years, there has been an explosion of abusive patent litigation
designed not to reward innovation and enforce intellectual property, but to threaten companies in order to extract settlements based on questionable claims. see American Innovation on page 23
22 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Government
American Innovation from page 22
There are a growing number of companies, commonly called “patent trolls,” who employ these litigation tactics as a business model — costing the economy billions of dollars and undermining American innovation. In the last two years, the number of lawsuits brought by patent trolls has nearly tripled, and account for 62% of all patent lawsuits in America. All told, the victims of patent trolls paid $29
the issue (www.whitehouse.gov/ sites/default/files/docs/patent_ report.pdf) that documents the significant toll this issue is taking on our economy and on innovation, and we are excited to announce both Executive actions the Obama Administration is taking, and the legislative measures that we are calling on Congress to pass to protect American innovators. Last February during his Fireside Hangout (www.youtube.com/ watch?v=kp_zigxMS-Y), the President explained that patent trolls (known more formally as
see if they can extort some money out of them.” This type of abusive patent litigation is a major problem. It’s also important to know what we’re not talking about here. We aren’t trying to make it harder to pursue legitimate intellectual property rights, or vigorously defend valid patents. Indeed, the United States has the best intellectual property protections in the world, and our system rightly ensures that these innovators are compensated for their creativity. The problem is when rogue companies make a business model out of exploiting
The Rise of Patent Trolls: Total Number of Patent Cases Commenced, 2006-2012 billion in 2011, a 400% increase from 2005 — not to mention tens of billions dollars more in lost shareholder value. We recently released a study on
Patent Assertion Entities, or PAEs) “don’t actually produce anything themselves. They’re just trying to essentially leverage and hijack somebody else’s idea and
and abusing the system, using it not to protect invention but to bring frivolous lawsuits to extract settlements from companies trying see American Innovation on page 24
23 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Government
American Innovation from page 23
to serve American consumers. Bad patents in the system (such as those issued with broad or vague language) only compound the problem, and the issue extends far beyond any one industry. This is a problem we’re hearing a lot about, from multinational corporations and venture capitalists to garage innovators and small-town café owners. Businesses of any size are vulnerable to these tactics, whether you’re a software giant designing complex applications or a mom-and-pop store using a technology product you purchased over the counter. How big of a problem are patent trolls? Consider this: last year we
estimate that patent trolls sent out over 100,000 demand letters, threatening everyone from Fortune 500 companies to corner coffee shops and even regular consumers to pay a settlement or face a day in court. The number of these suits has exploded in recent years. But this is about more than just the company bottom-line: when businesses need to constantly worry about abusive patent litigation they are able to put less of their efforts into creating new products and serving customers. Today, some of the largest innovators in hightech spend more money on patent litigation and acquisition than they do on research and development for new products. Smaller companies are getting hit just as hard, and 40% of technology startups targeted by
patent trolls reported a significant impact on their business operations due the suit or threat thereof. It’s clear that the abuse of the patent system is stifling innovation and putting a drag on our economy. The trolling has gotten out of control, and it’s time to act. We are excited to announce these steps to give innovators a fair fight in the legal battle against patent trolls, bring clarity to the high-tech patent space, and protect the everyday citizen against their abusive tactics. We look forward to, with your support and the input of everyone affected by this issue, helping make America an even better place to innovate. www.whitehouse.gov/ blog/2013/06/04/taking-patenttrolls-protect-american-innovation
Every year since 1963, the President of the United States has issued a proclamation announcing National Small Business Week, which recognizes the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners. More than half of Americans either own or work for a small business, and they create about two out of every three new jobs in the U.S. each year. As part of National Small Business Week, the U.S. Small Business Administration takes the opportunity to highlight the impact of outstanding entrepreneurs, small business owners, and others from all 50 states and U.S. territories. Every day, they’re working to grow small businesses, create 21st century jobs, drive innovation, and increase America’s global competitiveness.
www.sba.gov/nsbw/nsbw 24 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Government
President Obama Appoints Ambassador Rice National Security Adviser
presidential daily brief, hundreds of times, a sweeping assessment of global developments and the most pressing challenges. As my National Security Advisor his portfolio is literally the entire world. He has definitely advanced our strategic foreign policy initiatives while at the same time having to respond to unexpected crises, and
President Barack Obama talks with, from left, Samantha Power, former Senior Director for Multilateral Affairs and Human Rights, National Security Advisor Tom Donilon, and Ambassador Susan Rice, U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations, in the Oval Office. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)
T
hank you, everybody. (Applause.) Thank you. Please, everybody have a seat. Well, good afternoon. It is a beautiful day, and it’s good to see so many friends here. Of all the jobs in government, leading my national security team is
certainly one of the most demanding, if not the most demanding. And since the moment I took office, I’ve counted on the exceptional experience and insights of Tom Donilon. Nearly every day for the past several years I’ve started each morning with Tom leading the
that happens just about every day. He’s overseen and coordinated our entire national security team across the government, a Herculean task. And it’s non-stop -- 24/7, 365 days a year. see National Security Advisor on page 27
26 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Government
National Security Advisor
one of the most effective national security advisors our country has ever had, and he’s done so without a lot of fanfare and a lot of fuss. So, Tom, on behalf of us all, thank you for your extraordinary service. (Applause.) Now, I am proud that this work will be carried on by another exemplary public servant -- Ambassador Susan Rice. (Applause.) Susan was a trusted advisor during my first campaign for President. She helped to build my foreign policy team and lead our diplomacy at the
champion for justice and human dignity, but she’s also mindful that from page 26 we have to exercise our power wisely and deliberately. Today, I am wistful to announce Having served on the National that after more than four years Security Council staff herself, she of extraordinary service, Tom knows how to bring people together has decided to step aside at around a common policy and then the beginning of July. And I am push it through to completion -extraordinarily proud to announce so that we’re making a difference my new National Security Advisor, where it matters most, here in the our outstanding Ambassador to the country that we have pledged to United Nations, Susan Rice -defend, and in the daily lives of the (applause) -- as well as my nominee people we’re trying to help around to replace Susan in New York, the world. Samantha Power. (Applause.) H a v i n g served as an Assistant Secretary of State, she knows our policies are stronger when we harness the views and talents of people across government. So Susan is the consummate public servant -- a patriot who puts her country first. She is fearless; she is tough. She has a great tennis game and a pretty good Ambassador Susan Rice, U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations basketball Tom, you’ve been with me every United Nations in my first term. game. (Laughter.) Her brother is step of the way these past four I’m absolutely thrilled that she’ll be here, who I play with occasionally, years, and the American people back at my side, leading my national and it runs in the family -- throwing the occasional elbow -- (laughter) -owe you an enormous debt of security team in my second term. With her background as a scholar, but hitting the big shot. gratitude for everything that you’ve As our Ambassador to the U.N., done. You’ve helped to restore our Susan understands that there is no substitute for American leadership. Susan has been a tireless advocate nation’s prestige and standing in the world. You’ve positioned us well to She is at once passionate and in advancing our interests. She has I think everybody reinvigorated American diplomacy, continue to lead in the years ahead. pragmatic. understands Susan is a fierce I think that Tom Donilon has been see National Security Advisor on page 28 27 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Government
National Security Advisor from page 27
in New York. She has helped to put in place tough sanctions on Iran and North Korea. She has defended Israel. She has stood up for innocent civilians, from Libya to Cote d’Ivoire. She has supported an independent South Sudan. She has raised her voice for human rights, including women’s rights. Put simply, Susan exemplifies the finest tradition of American diplomacy and leadership. So thank you, Susan, for being willing to take on this next assignment. I’m absolutely confident that you’re going to hit the ground running. And I know that after years of commuting to New (left to right) President Barack Obama, Ambassador Susan York while Ian, Jake and Maris stayed here in Rice, and Tom Donilon, National Security Advisor Washington, you will be the first person ever in this job who will see their family more by taking the National Security Advisor’s job. (Applause.) own wonderful family for their unfailing support -- my So with that, I’d invite Susan to say a few words. mother, Lois; my wonderful husband, Ian; our children Tom. (Applause.) Jake and Maris; and my brother, John, have all been Mr. President, thank you so much. I’m deeply my strength and my greatest source of humor. I’m also honored and humbled to serve our country as your thinking today about my late father, who would have National Security Advisor. I’m proud to have worked loved to be here. I’m forever grateful to my family for so closely with you for more than six years. And I’m their love and sacrifice. deeply grateful for your enduring confidence in me. I want to thank my remarkable colleagues at the As you’ve outlined, we have vital opportunities to seize U.S. Mission to the United Nations. I am so proud of and ongoing challenges to confront. We have much still the work we’ve done together under your leadership, to accomplish on behalf of the American people. And Mr. President, to advance America’s interests at the I look forward to continuing to serve on your national United Nations. security team to And, Samantha, my friend -- warmest congratulations. keep our nation You’re a tremendous colleague, and the United States strong and safe. will be extremely well served by your leadership at the Tom, it’s been a United Nations. And I’m so glad we get to continue to real honor to work work together. with you again. Mr. President, having participated in the national You have led with security decision-making process over the last four great dedication, years, I admire the exemplary work done every day smarts, and by our colleagues at State, Defense, the intelligence skill, and you community, and across the government to make our leave a legacy nation more secure. I look forward to working closely of enormous with you, your extraordinary national security team, our accomplishment. country’s most experienced leaders from both parties, “If we want America to lead in All of us around and your superb national security staff to protect the the 21st century, nothing is more the principals’ United States, advance our global leadership, and important than giving everyone the table will miss promote the values Americans hold dear. best education possible — from the you. And I wish www.whitehouse.gov/photos-and-video/ you and Cathy, day they start preschool to the day video/2013/06/05/president-obama-makes-nationaland your family, all they start their career.” security-personnel-announcement#transcript the very best. President Barack H. Obama Above all, I want to thank my
Quote of Note...
28 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Government
C3 2013 Summit Commercial Service American Business Exchange Pavilion President Bill Clinton, Keynote Speaker Union League Club New York, NY October 07, 2013 SUMMIT HIGHLIGHTS: www.lssassociates.com/Files/PdfDocs/C3-Prospectus-FINAL.pdf
Registration: www.C3Summit.eventbrite.com C3 Summit 2013 in its 2nd year to promote Commerce, Community and Collaboration will host President Bill Clinton as the Keynote and in partnership with the Commercial Service, will conduct an American Business Exchange Pavilion. U.S. companies will have an opportunity to exhibit at the Summit and have international business-tobusiness matchmaking opportunities, provided by Commercial Service, with American and Middle East companies interested in doing business in the Middle East and North Africa markets as well as FDI in the U.S. This is one of New York’s most prestigious international business-to-business networking events. Exhibition space is readily accessible to SMEs interested in doing business in the Middle East region and provides a unique opportunity to have access to this growing market in a truly business venue. Showcase your company to an expected audience of more than 465 company representatives to meet other ideally matched prospects of participating Exhibitors and Sponsors (in addition to networking with more than 400 Plenary attendees). Last year more than 400 participants attended C3 Summit 2012 in NY with more than 35 countries (including 10 Arab nations) represented. Don’t miss out—limited exhibit and sponsorships available. Meet potential partners, agents, distributors and buyers; and close business deals. For more information contact: RanselPotter@copara.com or Tanya. Cole@trade.gov
Please consider these upcoming international trade events including the Senior Commercial Officer conferences that are taking place throughout the country during the first half of the year. This is a wonderful opportunity for you to meet with our senior diplomats serving in countries that are strategically important to your company. We hope you can join us as we continue to support the exports of U.S. products and services around the world. To find out more about these events, please visit our website at www.export.gov/california/ca/ socal/monthlynewsletter Best Regards, Richard Swanson, Network Director, Pacific South Network U.S. Department of Commerce – U.S. Commercial Service UPCOMING SENIOR COMMERCIAL OFFICER CONFERENCES • Gateway to Europe International Trade Conference - Minneapolis, MN, June 4-5, 2013
29 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Government
SBA Loan Process Goes Digital, Cuts Some Fees
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here have been some new developments over at the Small Business Administration (www.sba. gov). The SBA’s budget for 2014 eliminates fees on some of the smallest loans it offers. This is an effort to get more loans to smallbusiness owners. The agency also announced plans to reduce the paperwork required from banks and borrowers. “Small business is the heart of American business responsible for some 80% of GDP,” notes Sankar Krishnan, Global Client
Engagement E t Head, H d Banking B ki & Financial Services at Sutherland Global Services. “This move will help small businesses as the overall cost of doing business goes down even if by a trickle. This is important as a lot of small businesses owners who are sitting on the fence about whether to expand or not now have a good reason to grow their business. Also, it indicates that the regime is serious about enabling business. So it’s a good thing,” she says. The new changes will mostly
affect the SBA’s 7(a) guaranteed loans, which supports more than $27 billion in funding annually to small businesses. The news comes at a time when the sequestration cuts this past winter cut 12% from the SBA’s 2014 budget of $810 million. The budget however will now waive all fees for businesses seeking 7(a) loans of $150,000 or less. And beginning in October, the SBA will cut out loanorigination and servicing fees, as well as the 0.55% charged to the bank lenders each year to pay for their government guarantee. “For business owners, it is elimination of a 2% fee on loan accounts, which totals $3k on maximum size loans, so that is impactful, since that must be paid upfront,” loan expert Charles H. Green, Charles Green Company, points out. “For lenders, it also waives the ongoing .55% annual fee contribution on the outstanding loan, adding that sum to their revenue, but more intentioned, it is added incentive to actually solicit loans in this size category, which an overwhelming number of banks choose to ignore or resist.” The paperwork, which can be up to 100 pages, will be cut through an automation of the application process. “It shows that the SBA recognizes that it is behind the curve in technology and plans to do something about it,” says Rohit Arora, CEO and co-founder of Biz2Credit.com. “Automating the small business loan application process will make things quicker and easier. Loan officers will be able to make better-informed lending decisions in shorter amounts of time,” he adds.
Any changes that not only speed up the process but make it more affordable is good news for small business owners who often find themselves turned down by banks. “Although small business lending by big banks has picked up, it has yet to return to pre-credit crunch levels. Five years ago, big banks approved about 40% of loan applications, in part because they did not want to deny their own small business customers who banked with them,” notes Arora. “The post-Lehman collapse credit crunch changed all that, and approval rates plummeted to single digit levels during 2011. Increasingly, entrepreneurs looked for SBA lending for financing because the big banks turned off the spigot. Things have improved and big banks are approving about 16% of loan applications. It’s better, but still nowhere near pre-credit crunch levels. Thus, SBA loans are still very important.” Arora says he hopes the SBA continues to make improvements and forge ahead with new technology. “Many banks already accept eSignatures. This is something that the SBA needs to adopt quickly. People want to conduct business electronically-online banking and online loan applications. Increasingly, they want to do it via phone or tablet. According to Green, the move to digital Is something the SBA has been pushing for for a while. “SBA has been dragging the small business banking community into the digital age for years, not the other way around. Left to their own devices, most banks would still be using pencil-completed spreadsheets.”
30 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Government
New Initiative to Help Veterans Access Capital and Become Entrepreneurs by Rhett_Jeppson, SBA Official
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r e you a
veteran transitioning from active service and want to become an entrepreneur? Or perhaps you’ve been out of the service for some time and want to start a new small business or expand an existing one? If that’s you or someone you know, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced the SBA Veteran Pledge Initiative, a new commitment by its top national regional and community lenders to collectively increase their lending activity to veterans by 5% per year for the next five years. This initiative has the potential to boost the already $2.1 billion per year in lending support that various SBA programs provide to new and existing vet small business owners. I’ve heard stories that many veteran entrepreneurs face challenges in raising capital or have trouble receiving a conventional loan. This is why getting out the word about this new initiative is so important. With the support of SBA’s top 20 national lending partners, and approximately 100 additional regional and community lending partners across the United States, SBA expects to assist an additional 2,000 veterans obtain loans to start or expand small businesses by increasing lending by $475 million over the next five years. The combined goal by the top 20 national lending partners’ will provide nearly $249 million of lending, potentially impacting nearly 800 veteran entrepreneurs. The 5% increase in lending by approximately 10 lenders in each of the 10 Regions will account for the remaining $226 million in loans and more than 1,100 additional veteran entrepreneurs assisted. I know that if we support our veteran entrepreneurs, and provide them with the tools they need, they will have a higher chance of success. Already, veterans make
up a large number of successful s m a l l business owners. N e a r l y one in ten of small businesses are veteran-owned. These 2.45 million veteran-owned businesses employ more than 5 million individuals. In the private sector workforce, veterans are more likely than those with no active-duty military experience to be self-employed. I just have to echo SBA Administrator Karen Mills, speaking recently at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina, who said “Our service men and women have made incalculable contributions and sacrifices for our country, and supporting them as they pursue their dreams to start or grow their own business is one of SBA’s highest priorities. Through this partnership with national lending partners and regional lenders across the U.S. we stand ready to serve veteran entrepreneurs with loanguarantees, entrepreneurial training, and resources that are critical tools to help them start businesses, drive the local economy and create jobs for themselves and their communities.” So for all of you aspiring and existing entrepreneurs, if you need capital for your small business, please call one of SBA’s 68 local district offices, or one of its 15 Veterans Business Outreach Centers nationwide. SBA’s resources for veterans, and its partnership with 1,000 Small Business Development Centers and some 12,000 SCORE-Counselors to America’s Small Businesses volunteers, help more than 200,000 veterans, service-disabled veterans and reservists each year. To learn more about additional opportunities for potential and existing veteran small businesses, visit the website at www.sba.gov/veterans.
31 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Government
10 Tips for VeteranOwned Businesses Seeking to Sell to the U.S. Federal Government by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator
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re you a veteran-owned small business and thinking of selling to your former boss – the U.S. federal government? Part of the mission of the Small Business Administration (SBA) is to provide assistance to veterans and service-disabled veterans who return home to start, resume or grow their businesses. In addition to supporting veteran business owners through entrepreneurial training, and providing access to capital, the SBA also provides resources, tools and support to help veterans start and grow businesses through government contracting. If you are a veteran-owned small business, check out these 10 tips for getting started selling to the U.S government and winning a government contract. 1) Boots to Business – Get Help Starting Your Business Boots to Business (www.sba.gov/ bootstobusiness) is a public-private partnership program that gives service members support to help them learn the nuts and bolts of how to start and grow a business and access SBA tools and resources available to them. 2) Find a Veterans Business Outreach Center – The SBA’s Office of Veterans Business Development oversees multiple Veterans Business Outreach Centers (www.sba.gov/content/ veterans-business-outreach-
centers) across the country. In addition to helping veterans build a business plan and start a business, these centers can help veterans land government contracts, get access to mentoring services, and find training. 3) Review your Financing Options – In addition to a range of other loan programs (www. sba.gov/category/navigationstructure/loans-grants), SBA’s Patriot Express Program (www. sba.gov/content/patriot-express) is specifically designed for small businesses that are more than 51% owned or controlled by veterans or members of the military community and are available up to $500,000. 4) Familiarize Yourself with Small Business Incentives for Government Contracting – The law mandates that government agencies establish contracting goals that require them to reach out and consider small businesses and service-disabled veteranowned businesses for procurement opportunities. Currently, 23% of contracts must be awarded to small businesses and 3% to servicedisabled veteran-owned small businesses. These opportunities will help open doors, but you must still be able to sell your business on performance, price and ability. Contact your Veterans Business Outreach Center to learn more about these and other incentive
opportunities. 5) Learn About How the Government Buys – The government applies standardized procedures to buy products and services it needs from suppliers that meet certain qualifications. The primary contracting methods used by the government include micropurchases, simplified procedures, sealed bidding, contract negotiations and consolidated purchasing. Learn more about these in another SBA online training course, Government Contracting 101: How the Government Buys, or read a quick overview of the process in my earlier blog: Government Contracting – Learn how the Government Buys from Small Businesses (www.sba.gov/ community/blogs/governmentcontracting-%E2%80%93-learnhow-federal-government-buyssmall-businesses). 6) Understand the Rules – Understanding the government’s procurement rules is critical to your success as a government contractor. The FAR, or Federal Acquisitions Regulations (www.sba.gov/content/federalacquisition-regulations-far), is the roadmap for doing business with the government. Check out these resources on SBA.gov to help you become familiar with the regulations that apply to most federal contractors. 7) Size Does Matter – As a small business, certain government programs may apply to you. The question then becomes: What is a small business, or, more specifically, is your firm a small business? Over the years, SBA has established and revised numerical definitions for all for-profit industries, and this numerical definition is called a “size standard.” Use SBA’s Size Standards Tool (www.sba.gov/
33 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
see 10 Tips on page 35
Expand Your Exports in Colombia Trade Mission & Business Development Opportunities July 14-19, 2013
The Mission The Los Angeles County Business Federation (BizFed) and Los Angeles Metropolitan Hispanic Chambers of Commerce, in conjunction with U.S. Commercial Service, are leading this trade and business development mission capitalizing on the U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement signed last year. The mission is open to small- and medium-sized businesses from a cross section of industries with potential for growth in Colombia, but focusing particularly on best prospects in agricultural, commercial/food packaging and infrastructure sectors. Opportunities x Access to Colombia’s AgroExpo 2013, the most important specialized event in the agriculture and livestock sector of Colombia, Central America and the Caribbean, and one of the most representative events in Latin America. The expo is an ideal venue for business connections, business deals, information exchange knowledge and updates on new technological developments. x Presentation of products, services, and expertise to the business communities of Colombia in the agricultural industry through round tables, conferences and business receptions. x New contacts and business established through personalized matchmaking x Promotion of Southern California business, trade and tourism opportunities x Personalized technical and experience visits to production and distribution centers Why Colombia x Colombia is a key export market for Southern California. Exports to Colombia through the LA Customs District totaled $193M in 2011. x The Colombian economy has performed well over the past decade and has enjoyed unprecedented political stability over the past few years. GDP per capita has doubled since 2004. It is the fourth-largest economy in Latin America and the third-largest in South America. x Colombia is expected to grow 4.5% annually over the next five years. x FTA with the U.S. means immediate duty-free access to Colombia, including almost all products in these sectors: agriculture and construction equipment, aircraft and parts, auto parts, fertilizers and agro-chemicals, information technology equipment, medical and scientific equipment, and wood. x More than half of current U.S. farm exports to Colombia now duty-free, and virtually all remaining tariffs will be eliminated within 15 years. x Dollar is accepted and English is widely spoken in business environment. x U.S. Commercial Service presence to provide international business development assistance to meet the most critical needs of export-ready U.S. companies.
APPLY NOW Space is Limited TO APPLY: californiastep.org (and attached matchmaking intel form)
Registration Deadline: May 17, 2013 Cost*: BizFed/LAMHCC members $2690.00 Non-members $2990.00 *For California-based participants. Includes roundtrip coach airfare from Los Angeles, double occupancy hotel accommodations, ground transport, AgroExpo admission, roundtables, conferences, airport fees and some meals. (Single occupancy hotel will be an additional $50.00 per day. Business class airfare available upon request) (50% deposit due upon notification by BizFed of your acceptance on this trade mission; balance due by June 25, 2013)
Eligibility Criteria: x x x x
x
Comply with SBA size standards (www.sba.gov/size) In business for not less than the 1year period ending on date of trade mission Operating profitably, based on operations in U.S. Demonstrated understanding of costs associated with exporting and doing business with foreign purchasers, including costs of freight forwarding, customs brokers, packing and shipping Has in effect a strategic plan for exporting.
Questions? Please contact Judi Erickson at 818.984.5080 or email: Judi.Erickson@bizfed.org
Government
10 Tips for Working with the US Gov’t
from page 33
size-standards-tool?ms=nid4060) to help determine if your business is truly “small” and qualifies for government contracts. 8) Learn the Process of Selling to the Government and Finding Opportunities – Selling to the government is not as big of a mystery as you might think. There are several fundamental steps you should follow: • Define your business and products using a DUNS number and NAICS code. • Register your firm in the System for Awards Management. • Market directly to agencies. • Use established procurement vehicles. For a deeper dive into this process, read Selling to the Government – Get Started with These 5 Steps (www.sba.gov/community/ blogs/community-blogs/businesslaw-advisor/selling-government%E2%80%93-get-started-withthese-5-s) or check out SBA’s information about Registering for Government Contracting (www.sba.gov/content/register-
government-contracting), which explains the easy steps you need to follow to being bidding on government proposals. 9) Find Subcontracting Opportunities – An alternative to seeking prime contracts is to explore
you have questions about the federal marketplace, government contracting methods, contract opportunities or winning recovery and other federal contracts, check out the following resources: • SBA’s Government Contracting
subcontracting opportunities (www. sba.gov/category/navigationstructure/contracting/contractingopportunities/sub-contracting). Subcontracting with a prime contractor can be a profitable experience as well as a growth opportunity for a business. To help small businesses find opportunities, SBA maintains SUB-Net, a searchable database of available subcontract opportunities. 10) Have a Question? – If
Guide – Explore the process of government contracting with easy how-to guides and resources. w w w. s b a . g o v / c a t e g o r y / navigation-structure/contracting • Government Contracting Classroom – Available via SBA’s Learning Center, these self-paced, free online courses cover the fundamentals of selling to the government as a small business owner. www.sba. gov/sba-learning-center/series/ government-contracting-101 • Get In-Person Assistance and Training – SBA and its resource partners can answer your questions about the federal market place, government contracting methods, and finding contract opportunities. Find your local SBA office, Veterans Business Outreach Center and more using the interactive map - at www.sba.gov/localassistance.
August 6-8, 2013 St. Louis, MO The National Veterans Small Business Conference is the premier annual event for Veterans to network, learn, and grow their businesses.
www.nationalveteransconference.com
www.sba.gov/community/blogs/ community-blogs/small-businessmatters/10-tips-veteran-ownedbusinesses-seeking-sell
35 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Business
Black Buying Power Continues to Rise Source: BusinessWire www.businesswire.com espite the severe impact of the Great Recession, Blacks’ economic clout continues to energize the U.S. consumer market. The Selig Center estimates that the nation’s Black buying power will continue its dramatic rise — $316 billion in 1990 to $600 billion in 2000, to $947 billion in 2010–to $1,038 billion in 2012, and a projected $1,307 billion in 2017. The 73% gain from 2000 to 2010
D
Several critical factors account for the gains in Black buying power. Beyond population growth and inflation, one of the most important and enduring forces is the increasing number of Blacks starting and expanding their own businesses. The 2007 Survey of Business Owners, released by the U.S. Census Bureau in June 2011, shows the number of Black-owned firms grew 61% in just the five years from 2002 to 2007, more than three
outstrips the 60% increase in white buying power and the 67% increase in total buying power (all races combined) for the same period. In 2012, Blacks’ share of the nation’s total buying power will be 8.5%, up from 8.2% in 2000 and 7.5% in 1990. And their share is expected to rise to 8.7% by 2017, accounting for almost nine cents out of every dollar spent.
times the gain in the number of all U.S. firms (18%). Also, compared to the previous five year period, the overall rate of growth in the number of Black-owned firms accelerated (as did the rate of growth in the number of all U.S. firms). Between 2002 and 2007, the receipts of black-owned firms grew by 55% compared to the 34% increase in the receipts of all U.S. firms.
Still another positive factor driving the group’s buying power is its steadily rising levels of educational attainment, which should allow proportionally more Blacks to enter occupations with higher average salaries. Census data show that the percent of Blacks 25 and older who have completed high school or college rose from 66% in 1990 to 79% in 2000 and to 84% in 2010. Also, the 2010 Current Population Survey indicates that 20% of Blacks had a bachelor, graduate, or professional degree. The percentage of Blacks who had completed college in 2010 (20%) was higher than in either 2000 (17%) or in 1990 (11%). Favorable demographic trends help, too, since the Black population continues to grow more rapidly than the total U.S. population. From 2000 to 2012, the nation’s Black population grew by 16% vs. 7.6% for the white population and 12.2% for the total population. From 2012 to 2017, the Black population is projected to grow by 6.9%, exceeding the 5.7% growth estimated for the total U.S. population. Also, the Black population is younger: The 2010 Current Population Survey put the median age of Blacks at 31.4 years compared to 38.2 years for the white population and 36.7 years for the total population. Indeed, nearly 30% (29.4) of the Black population see Black Buying Power on page 37
36 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Business
Black Buying Power is under 18 years old (vs. 23.3% of whites and 24.6% of the total
buying power. From January 2000 through January 2012 (the most recent data available as of this writing), the number of jobs held by Blacks had increased by only 235,000, or a paltry 0.1% per
population). Because blacks are so much younger, it’s no surprise that they’re increasingly setting trends for youth (and young adults) of every race and ethnic background. The youthful profile of the Black population does have its downside, however. Compared to people who are either more established in their careers or retired, young people, regardless of their race or ethnicity, are more exposed to job losses in economic downturns. In this regard, Black buying power is vulnerable to the effects of economic recessions, but over time the above-average growth of Black buying power has more than compensated for that high cyclical exposure. Due to the unusual severity of the Great Recession, employment growth can no longer be cited as one of the main forces behind the above-average gains in Black
year. And, from its pre-recession peak in July of 2007 (when blacks held 16,307,000 jobs) through January of 2012 (when blacks held 15,512,000 jobs), the number of employed African Americans dropped by 795,000, representing an . unemployment rate of 14.2% (up from 8.9% in July ’07). In January 2012, the employment to population ratio for blacks stood at only 52.2% (vs. 59.3% in July 2007). This recession was the worst since the Great Depression, and it erased a decade’s worth of job growth for African Americans. At the time of this writing, it appears that the period of job losses is over, but the labor market is recovering very slowly, especially in states hit hardest by the housing bust. In 2012, the 10 states with the largest African-American markets,
from page 36
in order, are New York ($95 billion), Texas ($86 billion), California ($77 billion), Florida ($74 billion), Georgia ($73 billion), Maryland ($63 billion), North Carolina ($48 billion), Illinois ($47 billion), Virginia ($45 billion), and New Jersey ($40 billion). Of these, Maryland, North Carolina and Georgia are the only ones that did not rank among the top 10 markets for all consumers. Unlike the Hispanic and Asian markets in the U.S., the AfricanAmerican market is not concentrated in a handful of states. This vibrant consumer market is very widespread, making it an attractive customer segment in many of the states. Due to differences in per capita income, wealth, demographics, educational attainment, occupational distribution, geographic distribution, and culture, the spending habits of Blacks as a group are not the same as those of non-black consumers (e.g., white and other races combined). Thus, as African Americans’ share of the nation’s total buying power expands, business-to-consumer firms can be expected to devote more resources towards developing and marketing products that meet the needs and match the preferences of black consumers. www.reachingblackconsumers. com/2012/04/black-buying-powercontinues-to-rise
37 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Business
7 Ways to Start Your Own Business
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tarting your own business is challenging. It requires time and focus. Plan, plan plan! Turn your passion into profit. Envision success!
marketing your business/ invention to? How and why can your project be of service to your demographic? What is the size of your potential market?
1. Define and visualize your 3. Analyze your financial needs/ project: Whether it is an start up costs: Don’t be afraid invention or new business, to take risks. How much will it have a perception of what it is cost? Do you need a loan? Will you want your project to do for you have investors? people. 4. Learn rules and regulations regarding your business/ 2. Identify market: Know your demographic. Who you are invention: Consult with an
attorney. Utilize free resources. Legalize and legitimize your business/invention. 5. Create a business plan: Describe your business more specifically. Define your organization. Evaluate your competitors. Do your research. What will you charge your consumers? 6. Develop a marketing plan: “Word of mouth” can only get you so far. How will you advertise? The goal is to build awareness. Beware of business propositions. 7. Set a timeline: The amount of time it takes to open your business will depend on the nature of it. Starting from scratch will generally take longer. When is your desired start up date? Entreprenuership is around the corner. You are the beholder of your destiny. Launch a new venture and be your own boss! www.whoswhopublishing. com/index.php/newsroom/ top-news/817-7-ways-tostart-your-own-business
www.bbala.org 38 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Business
Square Debuts Its Latest Hardware, STAND, a Card Swiper For iPad Registers
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t an event in San Francisco at Blue Bottle Coffee, Square debuted a stand built specifically for the iPad, which turns the device into a card-swiping register. Hardware has always been a part of who we are and who we want to be, says Jack Dorsey, CEO and co-founder of Square. “We wanted to build software and hardware that matches,” he says. You can check out a video of how Stand works below. While merchants using the iPad have been connecting to Square using the traditional Square card swiper, this product is targeted specifically for the iPad and
turns the iPad into a full-fledged register. The iPad focus is because customers using the device now represent nearly 50% of total payments processed by Square. The average payment volume processed by these customers is more than double the average volume processed by Square customers using smartphones. Square Stand features a card reader and connects to the hardware accessories businesses need, including a receipt printer, kitchen printer, cash drawer and barcode scanner. Merchants can lock their iPads in place and secure the stand to their countertops. The
device also allows the iPad to tilt and rotate. Additionally, Square Stand works with an iPad 2 or 3, with a version for iPads with Lightning connectors available later this year. Already, 13 businesses with 30 locations will start using Stand soon, including Blue Bottle Coffee in San Francisco and Café Grumpy in New York. Dorsey explains that the company has been talking to Starbucks about possibly using Square Stand (Square inked a processing deal with Starbucks last year). “We’re going to push this very hard, but we have to push this the right way,” he says. “We want to work together and test things.” Dorsey says this hardware is about not having merchants compromise — this acts as a fullfledged register. He adds that this also allows merchants to process payments faster, especially for highvolume merchants. The company focused on the operating system for the register, he says, as opposed to replacing barcode scanning or cash drawers. Square Stand costs $299 and is available for pre-order at www. squareup.com/stand. Customers will also be able to purchase Square Stand in Best Buy stores and other select retailers starting the week of July 8. Square says it is now processing over $15 billion in payments on an annualized basis, excluding Starbucks. Square’s point-of-sale technology and iPad-powered register app, Square Register, got a big update a few weeks ago targeted at serving restaurants better. http://techcrunch.com/2013/05/14/ square-debuts-its-latest-hardwarestand-a-299-card-swiper-for-ipadregisters
39 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
AEG Invites Current and Interested Supplier Partners to our
Supplier Portal, an online communication tool designed to enhance the relationship between AEG and our partners. The portal is an online and paperless tool that will provide you with: Increased visibility for AEG business opportunities Extended Company Profile in online directory Direct email updates from AEG clients and buyers Easy accounts payable information sharing Increased exposure for MBEs, WBEs, and DBEs It is important that you register your business so that we have the ability to contact you for participation in future opportunities. Suppliers seeking to initiate business with AEG are encouraged to register as well. Registration is simple and we invite you to visit our Supplier Portal at your earliest convenience:
https://supplier.aegworldwide.com
Business
YouTube Creates Paid Subscription Service for Brands By Jason Fell
G
oogle’s monster video publishing platform, YouTube (www.youtube. com), has created a paid subscription service that will allow content creators to charge viewers to watch their videos. The service creates a new revenue stream for YouTube as well as its contributors. Monthly subscription fees start at $0.99 and go up from there. Brands and other content creators will keep more than 50% of the revenue from subscription sales. YouTube will keep the rest. Channels will offer a 14day free trial for viewers and can also offer discounted yearly rates. Eventually this might be a significant opportunity for brands that have a large number of people following their channels. For now, though, the subscription service is only in “pilot” mode with just 30 brands and content creators launching 50 paid channels. Among them are Sesame Street, National Geographic TV and Ultimate Fighting Championship. YouTube says it will be rolling out paid channels more broadly in the coming weeks. -- Wall Street Journal
New Ways to Support Great Content on YouTube
-- Official YouTube Blog
W
e’ve been building a Yo u Tu b e partner program (/www.youtube. com/yt/partners) since 2007 that enables content creators to earn revenue for their creativity. We’ve watched them build amazing channels that have made YouTube into a news, education and entertainment destination 1 billion people around the world cannot do without. Today, there are more than 1 million channels generating revenue on YouTube, and one of the most frequent requests we hear from these creators behind them is for more flexibility in monetizing and distributing content. We’ve been working on that and wanted to fill you in on what to expect. Starting in May 2013, we’re launching a pilot program for a small group of partners that will offer paid channels on YouTube with subscription fees starting at $0.99 per month. Every channel has a 14-day free trial, and many offer discounted yearly rates. For example, Sesame Street will be offering full episodes on their paid channel when it launches. And UFC fans can see classic fights, like a full version of their first
event from UFC’s new channel. You might run into more of these channels across YouTube, or look here (www.youtube.com/channels/ paid_channels) for a list of pilot channels. Once you subscribe from a computer, you’ll be able to watch paid channels on your computer, phone, tablet and TV, and soon you’ll be able to subscribe to them from more devices. This is just the beginning. We’ll be rolling paid channels out more broadly in the coming weeks as a self-service feature for qualifying partners. And as new channels appear, we’ll be making sure you can discover them, just as we’ve been helping you find and subscribe to all the channels you love across YouTube. Just as the partner program empowered creators to take their channels to the next level, we look forward to seeing how this great community of creators moves ahead with a new way to reach the fan communities that made their channels a hit. You’ll be hearing more from us, and them, as we get creator and user feedback and build out this exciting offering. If you’re a YouTube creator interested in building your own paid channel, let us know: https://docs. google.com/a/google.com/forms/d/1vO gLrhP7v7KU1i9qu8jptkLA4e4mc1PPQ P1hpS4kK-I/viewform?pli=1.
www.entrepreneur.com/ article/226648 http://youtube-global.blogspot. com/2013/05/yt-pc-2013.html
42 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
BBA & CC-OPS Host Event to Honor Founder Mary Ann Mitchell and Celebrate Women Leaders in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math
O
n Thursday, June 27, 2013, CC-OPS and the Black Business Association will host a reception celebrating the life and legacy of CC-OPS’ Founder Mary Ann Mitchell and other women leaders in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). The event will be held at Maverick Flat, 4225 Crenshaw Boulevard in Los Angeles, California. The reception marks the
information technology firm’s 28th year in business. Now under the leadership of her daughter, Amy Dickerson, CC-OPS looks to use the event as an opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to the legacy of a woman who created a name for herself in the male-dominated industry. In reflecting back upon the time when she started her business, Mitchell told Our Weekly in an interview in early 2008, “A woman talking about engineering and technology was kind of unheard of”. With the support of five employees working in her garage, Mitchell built CC-OPS one connection at time, through relationship building, relentless follow-up, and a commitment to excellent customer service. Almost 30 years later, STEM
industries still lack significant female representation. The Department of Commerce’s Economic and Statistics Administration published a report revealing that, while women fill close to half of all jobs in the U.S. economy, they still hold less than 25% of STEM positions. Additionally, women hold a disproportionately low share of STEM undergraduate degrees, particularly in engineering. (United States Department of Commerce. “Women in STEM: A Gender Gap to Innovation.” 3 Aug. 2011) By honoring strong role models like Mitchell, CC-OPS and the Black Business Association hope to bring awareness to this disparity issue and stimulate discussion on strategies that will help increase participation of women and girls in STEM fields.
44 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Business
African-Americans Lead Ethnic Internet Users ccording to a new report from the U.S. Census Bureau, Black households continue to outnumber all ethnic (non-White)
A
National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). “Going online is no longer a
households that reported using the Internet. The study says 56.9% of all Black homes -- or 15.3 million -- reported online access and usage in 2011. Among Hispanic households, 14.2 million reported usage, and 4.7 million Asian homes cited usage. One of the factors that has dramatically changed usage among all groups of consumers is the smartphone. The new information comes from data collected as part of the Current Population Survey’s 2011 Computer and Internet Use Supplement, which was sponsored and funded by the
simple yes or no proposition,” said Thom File, the report’s author and a sociologist with the Census Bureau. “Different groups of people are accessing the Internet in very different ways, and these statistics give us a better understanding of how and where those connections are taking place.” In terms of smartphone usage, the same percentage of Blacks as Whites (48%) reported using a smartphone. Among Hispanics 45.4% reported using a smartphone, while 51.6% of Asians made the same claim. Overall, 48.2% of individuals 15 and older reported using a smartphone.
As technology has changed and evolved over the years, people have seen an increase in the variety and number of ways they use computers and access the Internet. To explore this phenomenon further, the Census Bureau designed a scale to place individuals along a “connectivity continuum.” The connectivity continuum shows variations in adoption of these technologies, ranging from people with no Internet connection or computer, to those connecting from multiple locations and devices. In 2011, 27.0% of Americans connected to the Internet from multiple locations and multiple devices. These individuals were considered “high connectivity” users. On the other end of the connectivity c o n t i n u u m , individuals with no computer or Internet (15.9%) made up the second largest group. The remaining 57.1% of Americans were located somewhere between these two extremes. The information was collected as part of a July 2011 supplement to the Current Population Survey, which asked a sample of approximately 54,000 households various questions about computer ownership, Internet use and mobile device usage. www.newpittsburghcourieronline. com/index.php/business/13908latest-census-bureau-report-showsafrican-americans-lead-ethnic-internetusers?showall=&start=1
45 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Save the Date
Connecting Women to Power Business Conference Friday, y June 28, 2013 Business Building Tools
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Discover Free Business Resources from the BOE
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Bridges Community Economic Development Corporation California State University, Dominguez Hills Southern California Minority Supplier Development Council Ŷ Ŷ Ŷ Ŷ Ŷ Ŷ Ŷ Ŷ Ŷ Ŷ
Co-sponsors Armenian American Chamber of Commerce California Black Chamber of Commerce California Commission on the Status of Women California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce California Legislative Women’s Caucus Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Los Angeles Korean American Federation of Los Angeles League of Women Voters of Los Angeles Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce National Latina Business Women Association–Los Angeles
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Domestic and International Trade
Business
Urban Delivery Founders offer DC an On-Demand Bike Courier App
T
here’s a new kid, or shall I say kids, on the Washington, DC block that promise to
deliver convenience right to your doorstep via their app. Ron Cade and Adrienne Sheares, both 26, founded Urban Delivery, an ondemand delivery service app which officially launched in June 2013. Available for iOS and Android devices, Urban Delivery uses GPStracking to allow app users to get any carriable item delivered to them anywhere in DC in approximately one hour by courier. Starting at $12.99, one of their 17 couriers can purchase items up to $150 for customers. Users should note that the purchase will be subjected to a 10% processing fee, and a 20% gratuity for couriers will be added to the base rate. They
will not have to worry about the processing fee if a courier is just picking up an item; and can pay for an item via the app or in advance of their purchase. With DC being a very bike-friendly city, Cade, a Howard Law School graduate and serial entrepreneur, knew Urban Delivery had the pedal strokes to be a great product. The
inspiration for creating the app came from his inability to get what he needed delivered. “Having been in law school there’d be plenty of times I’d have a paper due and the printer would jam, and it’d be nice to run to [FedEx] Kinkos but, unfortunately, you had those deadlines,” said Cade, chief executive officer at Urban Delivery. “With that, we just kinda got started thinking how to put something together to actually make that happen— where you’d be able to get the things that you needed when you were in a pinch, or in a rush, and just didn’t want to go out and get ‘em.” Whether it’s your dry cleaning order or a special delivery of cupcakes (or beer), Cade and Sheares, who both met in D.C.,
ensure on-demand, same-hour delivery to residents. Thanks to the constant contact users have with the courier, they’ll never have to worry about being out of the loop with their order. “When the courier takes the order, you get the information of the biker and the biker gets your information, so you see when they get to the store—they alert you when they’re at the store—and if something’s wrong, or there’s an extremely long line at the store, they’ll call and communicate that to you,” said Sheares, a John Hopkins University masters’ graduate and Chief Marketing Officer at Urban Delivery. The millennial duo has big plans for Urban Delivery, but for now is focused on making an impact in the same-hour delivery market. “We’ll evaluate in which direction we want to expand, and that may be expanding it [Urban Delivery] to other geographical markets,” said Cade. “That could potentially be expanding it to other services that kind of compliment what we currently do.” Cade and Sheares agree that they picked the right city to start their startup in. “The tech scene here has been booming,” said Sheares. “We like it here and we felt like there was a need for our product, especially with the booming scene, it made sense to stay.” “Why not D.C.?” added Cade. www.blackenterprise.com/technology/ urban-delivery-founders-navigatetech-scene-with-bike-courier-app
52 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Business
Elements of an Effective Personal Branding Statement “Sharpen Your Elevator Pitch”
motivated. Hiring managers love these traits because they show you can do the job and would be a good personality fit.
4. Talk about who you help. Mention who benefits from your talents and services. This helps convey your value and shows a company why they need you.
5. Tailor message.
your
Know your audience, and tailor your message to them. Think about how your work can benefit a CEO, a plant manager, clients or others in different ways. Identify the concerns and issues of your audience, then talk about how you can help them specifically.
6. Identify a goal.
I
s your “elevator pitch” more of a blank stare and a few mumbled words? Or when people ask “Tell me about yourself,” do you launch into a long retelling of your complete autobiography? When people ask you about yourself, they really want to know two things: “Why should I care about you?” and “What can you do for me or my company?” The best way to answer these questions is to craft an effective personal branding statement. The goal is to convey the type of professional or person you are, what motivates you and why those things are important. To meet this aim, your personal branding statement should include the
following elements:
1.
Start
with
your
name.
Introduce yourself, then quickly get to the next step.
Be specific about how you are helpful. Distill your achievements down to one single important thing, like helping your company save money.
7. Convey emotion. Showing a 2. Identify your main focus or bit of emotion with a smile shows current profession. In a concise, that you can fit into a company’s
focused sentence, identify what you actually do. Don’t mention your job title, the company you work for or how long you have been there. Speak in the present tense and talk about who you are today.
3. Transition to your passion. Think about what you love about your role, then show it by starting with “What I love to do is...” Including this element in your personal branding statement shows you care about what you do and are highly
culture and truly love what you do. Let your personality shine to stand out from the crowd. Each of these elements helps demonstrate your professional qualities, enthusiasm and interest. Use your effective personal branding statement to invite more meaningful dialogue while interviewing and networking, build connections and show others what makes you valuable and unique.
53 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Business
How to Create a Web Presence on a Small-Business Budget
M
artin Brossman, business coach, marketing consultant, author and founder of Martin Brossman & Associates, a social-media training firm in Raleigh, N.C., said it can be overwhelming for a small business to create a Web presence on a tight budget. Here are Brossman’s edited comments on how to give your business visibility with social media and free online directories and easily manage a website on your own. —Establish a social-media presence. Think about where your customers are and how to reach them. This is as simple as starting a Facebook business page, Google Plus business page, Pinterest pinboard or LinkedIn profile. Social-media sites have different target audiences; Facebook is ideal for businessto-consumer deals, and LinkedIn is suited for business-to-business sales. If you have a physical location, set up online listings in the two top directories: Google Plus Local and Yelp. These sites allow
smartphones to draw on them when someone is searching. —Learn about keywords and how to use them. Make your content search-engine-friendly by using the exact words people use when searching for your type of
management system features dashboards that allow users to make changes to the content on their own websites. Sites such as WordPress offer free blogging programs. The Web coding is free but requires a Web
business. Websites such as Google Keyword Tool Box can help generate popular keywords. Use the tool by typing in search terms that customers might use to find your business. Use keywords in your written content on your website and social-media platforms. —Develop a website you can manage yourself. A content
hosting company to run the site. These websites are generally inexpensive, costing less than $100 per year, including the domain name. —Link all of your business’ social media and directory sites to your website with buttons that are positioned at the top of your website’s homepage. Source: MCT Information Services
54 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Business
7 Apps That Will Make You More Productive Immediately BY Brian Moran
S
martphones and tablet devices are everywhere. Look around you—whether you’re on a plane, in a restaurant or at work, everyone is doing something on his or her phone or tablet - playing games, watching movies and TV, listening to music, shopping and interacting with each other via social media. We may be more entertained— even more addicted—but are we more productive? Check your phone or tablet. How many of your downloaded apps are time robbers vs. productivity tools? If you’re the average working American, the answer is the majority of your apps do nothing more than steal precious time from your busy day. How can you fix this problem? Start by cleaning up the apps on your phone or tablet. If you don’t use an app, delete it. You can always download it again if necessary. Then create a “Productivity” folder and download these seven apps to get better business use from your mobile device. 1. Waze: This app has saved me countless hours when traveling in my car. It’s a community-based traffic and navigation app that delivers traffic and road information. According to the company, over 30 million people input information to help fellow drivers. Users receive alerts about police activity, accidents, road hazards and traffic jams in real time. Waze will redirect you when there’s significant congestion on your original route. There’s no charge to use the app. 2. QuickVoice: This app is the 21st century version of the Dictaphone
and is very easy to use. Have an idea, thought or suggestion? With one touch, you can record, stop and save. You can also send up to 5MB audio messages for free. If necessary, you can upgrade to QuickVoice Pro for a fee and send audio messages via email up to 20MB. 3. BestParking: The app can be used for daily and monthly parking in 70+ cities and at 110 airports in U.S. and Canada. Type in your destination and length of time. BestParking will then populate your screen with nearby garages and their rates based on your information. It even offers special discounts, which, if selected, will be sent to your phone. The app takes away the headache of trying to decide where to park when traveling for business. 4. Skype: Skype allows you to connect with anyone, anywhere, at any time. If your mobile device has a microphone, webcam and Internet connection, you’re ready to get started. At no charge, you can make voice and video calls to other Skype users. For a pay-as-you-go or subscription-based fee, you can make calls to non-Skype users via mobile and landlines, text message and videoconference with a group. Other useful features include instant messaging, file sharing and
conference calling. Creating an account is a breeze, and they offer a free trial month for the skeptics. 5. Dropbox: The app allows you to easily share files with employees, vendors and customers who are on the road or who need a document quickly. You can also make realtime updates to often-used files while away from the office. This app is especially useful when you have a file too large to send via email. 6. Evernote: You can take notes, create to-do lists, record voice reminders, and save your ideas and URLs to websites you visit. Access to Evernote is available on almost any device, and you search through your notes by keyword. It’s a great app for eliminating clutter and staying organized while working on multiple projects or working with several clients. 7. Square or PayPal App: Smallbusiness owners have a new tool in getting paid. If you’re a service provider such as a carpenter, roofer or plumber, having either Square or the PayPal app can help you get paid on the spot. No more invoices to be paid in 30 or 60 days. No more having to remember to bill your client. A simple swipe of the customer’s credit card, and the money goes into your bank account. It’s also a useful app for restaurants and other retail locations for increasing productivity and better time management. When used properly, mobile devices can measurably increase productivity for your business. These seven apps can help you save time and money, connect with people all over the world, share information, organize your projects and ideas and get paid faster. So why are you still playing games on your smartphone? Download these today. www.openforum.com/articles/7-appsthat-will-make-you-more-productive
55 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Business
NEW BUSINESS LAUNCHED JANUARY, 2013
ͳͲ Ǥ ǡ ʹͲͳ͵ǡ ǡ ȋ ȌǤ Ǥ Ǧ ǡ Ǥ ǡ Ǥ ͵Ͳ Ǥ ǡ ǡ Ǯ ǯ Ǧ Ǥ Ǧ Ǧ Ǥ Ǥ Ǧ Business Startup Services and Business Growth Services. Business Startup Services ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ Ǧ ǡ ǡ Ǥ Business Growth Services Ǧ ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ Ǥ Ǥ ǡ ǡ ǡ ̵ ǡ ǡ Ǥ Ǥ ǡ Ǥ ǡ ̵ Ǥ ǣ Ǥ Ǥ ǣ ̷ Ǥ Ǥ ȋ ȌǤ ʹͲͲͲǡ ǡ ǡ Ǥ Ǧ Ǥ Ǥ Ǧ Ǥ ͵Ͳ Ǥ ǡ Ǥ Ǥ ǡ ʹͲͲ͵Ǥ ȋ Ȍ ͻͲͲ ȋ Ȍ Ǥ
58 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
GRANTS.GOV LISTINGS The following grant opportunity postings may be found on the Grants.gov Find Opportunities service: DOS Department of State Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs U.S. Embassy Islamabad PAS Grants Program, Modification 8 www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=114273 USAID Agency for International Development Afghanistan USAID-Kabul Public Private Innovative Development Initiative, Modification 3 www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=129593 USAID Agency for International Development Kazakhstan USAID-Almaty Development Through Regional Cooperation, Modification 5 www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=172393 DOT Department of Transportation DOT/Office of Small & Disadvantaged Utilization Notice of Funding Availability for the Small Business Transportation Resource Center Program, Modification 3 www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=177273 HHS Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Immunization and Vaccines for Children Program, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178334 DOI Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service
Assessing Management Needs to Enhance Recovery for the Eastern Massasauga, year four Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178353 HHS Department of Health and Human Services National Institutes of Health Population Architecture Using Genomics and Epidemiology (PAGE), Phase II Study Investigators (U01), Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178354 HHS Department of Health and Human Services National Institutes of Health Population Architecture Using Genomics and Epidemiology (PAGE), Phase II, Coordinating Center (U01), Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178355 HHS Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Cooperative Agreement for the Development, Operation, and Evaluation of an Entertainment Education Program, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178356 DOI Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management BLM CA Lassen Land and Trails Trust LLTT Modoc Line, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178357 ED Department of Education Upward Bound Math and Science Program - CFDA 84.047M, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178373
ED Department of Education National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR)-Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects and Centers Program-RERCs--Recreational Technologies Exercise Physiology Benefiting Individuals Disabilities, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178393 NASA National Aeronautics and Space Administration NASA Headquarters E.2 Leading Edge Aeronautics Research for NASA (LEARN), Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178394 ED Department of Education National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR)-Disability Rehabilitation Research Projects and Centers Program-Disability, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178413 USDOT Department of the Treasury Community Development Financial Institutions FY 2012 Bank Enterprise Award Program, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178433 DOI Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service University of California, Davis Species Project, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178453 NASA National Aeronautics and Space Administration NASA Headquarters COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT ON ASTROPHYSICS EXPLORER MISSIONS OF OPPORTUNITY, Grant
60 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
GRANTS.GOV LISTINGS from page 60
www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178473 DOI Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management BLM NV Nevada Ecological Site Descriptions State and Transition Models Development, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178474 DOI Department of the Interior National Park Service Estimating grizzly bear use of large ungulate carcasses with GPS telemetry data, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178493 DOD Department of Defense Air Force Academy STEM Outreach to K-12 Schools in Southern Colorado, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178494 DOI Department of the Interior National Park Service Developing Chesapeake Youth Corps Network, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178496 DOI Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management BLM WY 2012 Challenge Cost Share Program, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178497 DOI Department of the Interior National Park Service Signage and Related Interpretive Media Along the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail in Metro DC, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178513
DOI Department of the Interior National Park Service Heritage Partnerships Program 3D Digital Documentation, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178514 DOI Department of the Interior National Park Service War of 1812 in Southern Maryland: Traveling Exhibit and Traveling Trunks, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178515 DOI Department of the Interior National Park Service Assisting in Development of Potomac River Segment of the Captain John Smith Chesapeake and Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trails, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178516 DOI Department of the Interior National Park Service Interns CLI/LCS, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178517 DOI Department of the Interior National Park Service Development of LandScope Chesapeake, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178533
Irrigation Water Delivery Metering Project, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178573 DOI Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service Regional Mark Processing, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178574 DOI Department of the Interior National Park Service Technology Enhanced Interpretation Development, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178593 DOS Department of State Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs Middle East Partnership Initiative Tomorrow’s Leaders Scholarship, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178594 DOI Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service DURHAM DAM, Modification 1 www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178613 DOI Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service Chumstick Barrier Removal Phase 4, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178633
DOI Department of the Interior National Park Service Cooperative Agreement for the identification of sites and structures significant in Hispanic heritage, Grant www07.grants.gov/search/search. do?&mode=VIEW&oppId=178553 DOI Department of the Interior Bureau of Reclamation Bureau of Reclamation - Pacific Northwest Region
61 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
FOR
Father’s Day
OR ANY SPECIAL OCCASION
Diana Price and Associates is a consulting firm that works with companies to transform relationships with their customers by developing customized programs that deliver exceptional, sustainable and referable customer service experiences.
Who We Are • We teach companies how to treat and serve others • We make customer service relevant at every level of the organization • We show companies and their employees how to learn to love the next customer interaction • We elevate service, making it mission critical to the functioning of the business
Our Focus • Exceptional service experiences have the power to transform not only the relationship between you and your customers, but also the strategic relationship between customer service and the success of your business.
Our Approach • We work with companies to bring a sustainable customer service promise to life by making it relevant at every level of their organizations. • We make sure customer service is treated as a corporate mandate, a business imperative and, ultimately, a profit strategy that is a reference point in everything the company does. • People at every customer touch point – direct and indirect - are empowered and trained to deliver on that customer promise.
The Result • We teach companies how to make serving their customers central to their corporate cultures, and
in turn have that central focus also serve them as a successful and profitable business strategy. Diana Price & Associates provides a refreshing approach to creating exceptional customer experiences, operational assessments, human resources training, communication strategy, team retreats, culture and vision planning and customized consulting. Explore how we can help you get your customer interactions and employee engagement right and keep you moving forward.
Converting Business Pressure Points into Sustainable Customer Solutions • Service Leadership and Communication Strategy (coaching, training) • Customer Service Culture Sculpting and Vision Planning • Human Resources Training & Consulting • Career Development • Community Relations • Certifications • Keynote Speaking
www.dianapriceassociates.com 1507 7th Street Suite 686, Santa Monica CA 90401 T: 866.631.7500 • F: 888.920.2110
64 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Business
Michael Jackson Left the Eccentricities Out of His Estate Plan
• The Michael Jackson Family Trust was created to hold all of his assets.5 Jackson’s children, mother, and some unnamed charities are the trust beneficiaries. He also named contingent beneficiaries.6 • Jackson’s former wife is specifically omitted from the estate.7
ritics are calling Michael Jackson’s estate plan a hit. Much has been made of the King of Pop’s extravagant spending and lifestyle, which left him as much as $500 million in debt.1 But when it comes to estate planning,
C
youngest child.2 Under the terms of the will: • Jackson’s mother is named as guardian of his three children. In the event she is unable to care for the children, the duty would fall to singer Diana Ross,
He had a will and an estate plan. Among the most important steps Jackson took was to prepare a will and an estate plan while he was still in his early forties. One of the
Jackson’s moves were as smooth as his legendary moonwalk. “The Last Will of Michael Joseph Jackson” was executed in July 2002, shortly after the birth of his
Jackson’s longtime friend.3 • Three co-executors are named, including two recording industry executives and Jackson’s accountant.4
reasons why Jackson’s death at age 50 garnered so much attention was because it was unexpected. It’s a reminder than death can strike anyone, at any time, regardless of
What Jackson Did Right
see Jackson Estate Plan on page 67
66 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Business
Jackson Estate Plan from page 66
age or financial status. If Jackson had died intestate, the custody of his children and the fate of his estate would be decided by state law via the courts. You can imagine the chaos that would have ensued as any number of people tried to make claims against the estate, opening the door for years of costly litigation. Of course, a wellcrafted estate plan can’t prevent challenges. Jackson’s will and trust will inevitably be challenged because he was Michael Jackson, one of the most famous and successful entertainers of our age, whose estate could be worth $500 million or more.8 But he did much to ensure that his final wishes would be carried out. He updated his plan after the birth of a child. Birth, divorce, death, the acquisition or disposition of titled property, and other major life events all create the need to review your estate plan in order to make certain there are no loose ends. Jackson went a step further and specifically omitted an ex-spouse in order to help remove a basis for her claims against assets that he intended for his chosen heirs. He chose apparently competent executors. The person or persons who act as executor have to make decisions about money, pay bills, and possibly sell assets. It’s a good idea to choose someone you know who will be able to execute these types of tasks in a manner that you would approve of. In Jackson’s case, the business savvy of his executors could come in handy as his estate faces lawsuits and claims from his creditors. Jackson also split up the duties of managing the estate and caring for the children, which some experts say is a wise move. Both tasks could require
considerable time and energy. Putting all that responsibility on a single pair of shoulders could increase the potential for mistakes. He set up a trust. A trust offers many benefits, but one in particular that Jackson craved: privacy. Because his assets are in a revocable trust, their division is shielded from public view. By contrast, a will is a public document, offers no privacy, and is subject to court scrutiny. If there are challengers to the trust, a lack of information may make their cases more difficult to build. Jackson also provided that any estate taxes that would be due on any of his property
several days after Jackson’s death before his will was located.10 Even after it was found, there remained a question about whether Jackson had filed a subsequent will. If a family is unable to locate a will quickly, it can complicate or delay final arrangements, leave the family without adequate cash flow or key pieces of information, foster disagreements among survivors, and create a host of other unnecessary complications. One caveat: Don’t store your estate documents in a safe-deposit box. It takes a court order to open one after the owner dies. It’s a good idea to keep your estate documents in a fireproof box at home. Until you obtain one, storing your documents in an airtight bag in your freezer at home will help protect them from loss from a fire or flood. Explain your arrangements to those affected. Jackson’s strained relationship with his father has been tabloid fodder and may be one reason why Jackson didn’t name him in the will. Jackson’s mother, apparently at the behest of her husband, is reportedly contemplating a lawsuit challenging the executors’ control of the trust.11 Even if Mrs. Jackson’s lawsuit fails, the estate could incur legal fees that consume wealth intended for the heirs. It’s a good idea to share copies of your will with your family and explain how and why you arrived at decisions about the division of your estate. It could
Legal Practice
concentrating in: Estate Planning, Asset Protection, Trust Administration, Special Needs Planning (310) 677-9787 www.collinslawgroup.com that passes outside his will are to be paid by the takers of said property. Experts said this was wise because, if Jackson owned property with others as joint tenants, the property would pass to the partners without his heirs having to pay estate taxes.9 The use of trusts involves a complex web of tax rules and regulations. You should consider the counsel of an experienced estate planning professional before implementing such strategies.
Learn from His Mistakes Not everything Jackson did was worth emulating. Here are some lessons we can learn from his mistakes. Tell someone where the estate documents are stored. It was
see Jackson Estate Plan on page 68
67 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Jackson Estate Plan from page 67
help avoid hurt feelings and fights because heirs may be less likely to contest your arrangements if they understand your motives. Name appropriate guardians for your children. Jackson’s 79-yearold mother will be 90 by the time his youngest child turns 18. Ross is 65, and there have been reports that she was unaware that Jackson had named her as a contingent guardian in the will.12,13 Neither is a particularly good candidate to care for young children. It’s a good idea to name guardians who will be
willing and able to give your children the care they will need to move on to happy, well-adjusted lives. A solid estate plan is not just for the rich or famous. Putting the appropriate documents in place can help family members put their lives back together and potentially avoid costly financial problems. 1, 6, 8–9) InvestmentNews, July 13, 2009 2–5, 7) The Last Will of Michael Joseph Jackson, July 7, 2002 10, 12) DelawareOnline, July 20, 2009 11) MTV, July 21, 2009 13) Daily Mail, July 2, 2009
Caprice L. Collins is a top rated Harvard Law School trained attorney, fellow alumni with President Elect Barack Obama and a noted speaker on Living Trusts and Estate Planning. Ms. Collins’ law practice is devoted exclusively to Estate/Business Planning and Trust Administration. She is the only South Bay/Central Los Angeles member of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys, a distinguished organization of attorneys recognized by Money Magazine and Suze Orman as a first choice for Estate Planning legal services. Her seminars are said to be “inspiring, entertaining and easy-to-understand.”
68 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Business
Black-Owned Businesses Located Automatically By New App
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upporting black-owned businesses is a great way to stimulate economic advancement of the African American community. Up until now,
however, locating or identifying businesses with black owners was difficult to do consistently, especially outside of familiar areas. Now, you can more easily find black-owned businesses thanks to an innovative app designed for the purpose. The app was created by Around The Way, a company that specializes in developing smartphone applications, and supported by the U.S. Black Chambers Inc. Consumers around the country can use the app to find these businesses in any community in America.
D a t a b a s e Development According to the president of USBC, Ron Busby, a prime goal of their efforts was the creation of a comprehensive database listing every blackowned business in the United States. Consumers who want to support black businesses
can use the app to find a list of such companies in any area. This promises to be a powerful boon to bolster African American businesses nationwide.
Convenience Through Technology African Americans make up a significant portion of America’s consumer base, and many black consumers are conscious of their economic force and eager to support a positive brand that offers value. Now that Around The Way is available, black consumers will more easily be able to use modern technology in their efforts to locate and support black-owned businesses. This app is expected to be especially powerful considering the greater-than-average usage of smartphones by black consumers as more than half of the African American population uses them.
Completely Free Users of iPhones and Android devices can download and use Around The Way at no charge whatsoever. The app works by tapping into each device’s own GPS to find their location and serve them a dynamic list of blackowned businesses within five miles of their present location. The black community can bolster itself dramatically simply by using this app to stay aware of black-owned businesses and choosing their goods and services. To make the app fully functional and beneficial, African American business owners need to record their business information. Just as buyers will go to the app seeking information, business owners must go to the app to register their businesses. Consumers and business owners can find and download the app at www. aroundthewayapp.com.
69 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Business
Technology:
Take a Look! by LaSandra Stratton Check out what these firms and organizations have to offer for your personal interests, personal wealth building, and business expansion opportunities. www.thelevelup.com Business Owners. Accept payments via LevelUp and pay just 2%. It’s that simple. No hidden fees or charges. You’ll also receive instant confirmations after each transaction and next-day settlement to any bank account. To accept LevelUp, you can download the free merchant
app to your phone, use our free hardware to integrate right into your point-of-sale, or purchase a standalone LevelUp terminal for your counter.and manage conference calls. LevelUp helps you to know your customers. Cash is anonymous and the card companies hold your data hostage. Time for that to change! Our powerful analytics provide a real-time, detailed breakdown of transactions, customer demographics and business insights. Businesses are not all the same. Ane LevelUp gets it. That’s why we provide a wide array of advertising campaigns for you to choose from. Run them all or don’t run any. Customize them to your core goals. SHOPPERS Download the LevelUp app. Grab the free app for iPhone, Android
and Windows Phone. Link a credit or debit card to get your LevelUp code. Paying with LevelUp is just like swiping your card...but faster and more secure. Ready to Shop. Scan your LevelUp Code to pay. When you try a new place, you’ll instantly get a few bucks to spend there. You’ll unlock more savings as you go back to your favorite places. https://personifyinc.com Personify Live embeds real-time video of a speaker into any desktop setting-such as a PowerPoint slide show or online demo, allowing you to naturally interact with your content to promote greater engagement and personal interaction, while sharing visual cues such as facial expression and body language to increase engagement. • Works with standard web conferencing tools such as WebEx, GoToMeeting and Microsoft Lync • Use special effects such as semi-transparent mode and comprehension. • Revolutionary video application that adds your live video persona to your presentations or video communications. • Allows you to naturally interact with your content on screen • Control your presentation from your smartphone with the Personify Remote app! Personify zChat (coming soon) isn’t chat as you know it. Now you can visually share the screen with your friends, business colleagues,
and family. See their emotional cues as you share your content. Personify zChat transports you to the same virtual space as your friends or family allowing you to share experiences such as cobrowsing, shopping online, or watching YouTube videos. For business users, share your content and interact with your colleagues in real time. You’ll see real emotional reactions to your comments, links, images, or even what’s on your screen. Personify zChat goes beyond simple chat by giving you presence, seeing facial expressions and body language, and providing honest emotional feedback. We make chatting fun, honest, and most of all, we make it real again. www.rockmeafrica.com & http:// tunein.com/radio/RockMeAfricas150968 RockMeAfrica is the ultimate magazine & online resource for all Africans. We are the proud promoters of Exquisite African culture including but not limited to; Beautiful and rhythmic music, fashion,
communities, news, shopping centers,church events, weddings, classifieds and many more. Submitted by LaSandra Stratton, Chief Content Administrator of the Black Business News.
72 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Cicely Tyson Wins First Tony Award At Age 79!
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he legendary Cicely Tyson stole the 2013 Tony Awards with her moving acceptance speech after being named Best Actress in a drama for the revival of Horton Foote’s “A Trip to Bountiful.” It was the 79-year-old actress’ first Tony and her first time on the Broadway stage since the ill-fated 1983 revival of Emlyn Williams’ “The Corn is Green,” which just lasted 32 performances. In honor of the pioneering actress’ win, here’s a look at some facts and milestones of her long career. She won a Drama Desk Award in 1962 for her performance in the off-Broadway production of “Moon on a Rainbow Shawl.” Along with James Earl Jones and Louis Gossett Jr., Tyson was
part of the original cast of the 1961 off-Broadway production of Jean Genet’s “The Blacks,” which went on to become the longest-running non-musical off-Broadway play of the decade. Tyson has a school named after her -- the Cicely Tyson School of Performing and Fine Arts in East Orange, N.J. She played the wife of O.J. Simpson’s character in a 1969 episode of CBS’ “Medical Center.” The actress has refused to play two-dimensional, stereotypical depictions of African American women. “I said I have never -- and never will -- just work for money because I would end up on the psychiatrist’s couch and all the money would go to him,” she told The Times last year. “I would rather have my peace of mind.”
She was discovered by a fashion photographer at a Ebony magazine in the t 1950s and became a model. m Tyson was married to renowned jazz trumpeter r and composer Miles a Davis from 1981 to 1988. D She received a Best Actress Academy A Award nomination for A her warm performance h as a the matriach of a sharecropping family in s 1972’s “Sounder.” 1 She won two Emmys -- best lead actress in a drama and actress of o the year -- for her performance as a p 110-year-old former slave 1 in the 1974 TV movie “The Autobiography of “ Miss Jane Pittman.” M She earned Emmy nominations for 1977’s n “Roots” and 1978’s “ “King” and won another “ Emmy for 1994’s “The E Oldest Living Old Li i Confederate Widow Tells All.” Tyler Perry has cast her in several of his films, including 2005’s “Diary of a Mad Black Woman” and 2006’s “Madea’s Family Reunion.” Last year, she played his grandmother, Nana Mama, in the thriller “Alex Cross.” She caused a firestorm of controversy 50 years ago when she decided to wear her hair natural, not straight, when she was a regular on the George C. Scott CBS drama “East Side, West Side.” “I wish I had kept the bags of negative mail because of the way I was wearing my hair on the show,” Tyson told The Times. “I tore them up and threw them away.” www.latimes.com/entertainment/ arts/culture/la-et-cm-cicely-tysontonys-20130610,0,7537784.story
73 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Community/Public Interest
Happy Father’s Day from the Father-InChief President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama walk with their daughters Sasha and Malia to attend an Easter service.
President Barack Obama and his daughters, Malia, left, and Sasha, watch on television as First Lady Michelle Obama begins her speech
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resident Obama has a lot of important responsibilities in the White House, but he’s said that no job is more important than being a father to his two daughters. This commitment to his family has also translated into the President’s policy agenda. For the past four years, President Obama has promoted legislation to encourage fathers to take on a
President Obama waiting backstage before his speech at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C. with daughters Malia and Sasha.
more active role in their children’s lives through an inter-agency effort: the Fatherhood and Mentoring Initiative (www.fatherhood.gov). The Fatherhood and Mentoring Initiative has prompted government agencies to enact programs to assist fathers in raising and supporting their families and has made a significant impact throughout the country.
The Reconnecting Dads Initiative (http://portal.hud.gov/ hudportal/HUD?src=/program_ offices/public)_indian_housing/ programs/ph/hope6/css/rfd), founded by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, works with more than 300 Public Housing Authorities every year to provide men living in the public see Happy Father’s Day on page 75
74 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Community/Public Interest
Family dinner is usually private time, but the First Family was having dinner atop their hotel in Moscow, which overlooked the Kremlin.
President Barack Obama and daughter Sasha swim at Alligator Point in Panama City Beach, Fla., Saturday, Aug. 14, 2010. President Obama plays in the snow in the Rose Garden with his daughters.
President Barack Obama and daughters Sasha and Malia shop at Kramerbook & Afterwords Cafe in Washington, D.C.
Happy Father’s Day
promoting responsible fatherhood. In addition, this month, the White from page 74 House is partnering with text4baby (https://text4baby.org) to target housing with resources to make expecting fathers. The soon-tothem more self-sufficient and active be fathers will receive a free text in the lives of their families. message encouraging them to The White House also connects engage with their children early. with local barbershops to promote The Administration has also the “Fatherhood Pledge” released reports and guides to aid through the “Fatherhood Buzz fathers. Last year, the White House Campaign.” (http://fatherhood.gov/ issued “Promoting Responsible blog-categories/fatherhood-buzz) Fatherhood,” (www.whitehouse. This pledge provides resources g o v / s i t e s / d e f a u l t / f i l e s / d o c s / and urges people to commit to
fatherhood_report_6.13.12_final. pdf) a report that explains the President’s record on fatherhood. The U.S. Health and Human Services have also released the Head Start Father Engagement Birth to Five Programming Guide (http://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/hslc/ tta-system/family/docs/fatherengage-programming.pdf), which works with Head Start programs to provide strategies and resources to new fathers. For more information on the Obama Administration’s efforts to encourage father’s involvement in their children’s lives, visit www. fatherhood.gov. www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2013/06/14/ fathers-day-photo-gallery-blog
75 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Community/Public Interest
Suzanne Shank Named to The Grio’s 100 List 2013
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uzanne Shank, President and CEO of Siebert Brandford Shank & Company LLC (SBSCO), one of the nation’s
in the world of municipal finance. She co-founded Siebert Brandford Shank & Company LLC in 1996 along with Napoleon Brandford,
Suzanne Shank largest municipal infrastructure finance firms has been named to the 2013 “The Grio’s 100” list. The Grio (http://thegrio.com), an online news and opinion platform devoted to the African-American audience has identified the next generation of African-American leaders making a difference in the lives of all Americans. Others on the list include Actor Kerry Washington, syndicated talk show host and former NFL star Michael Strahan, television personality Wendy Williams, New York Knicks star Amare Stoudemire and Washington Redskins quarter back Robert “RG3” Griffin III. Ms. Shank is a ground breaker
a twenty-five year veteran of the business and Wall Street legend Muriel Siebert, the first woman ever to hold a seat on the New York Stock Exchange. Today SBSCO is one of the nation’s largest municipal finance firms and the leading MWBE (minority women’s business enterprise) municipal finance firm managing bond transactions exceeding $54 billion in 2011 alone. In 2010, Siebert Brandford Shank became the first minority and women owned firm to make the
Bond Buyer Newspaper’s Top 10 list of municipal bond underwriters. The firm has managed over $800 billion in principal amount of funds since its inception. “I am honored to be identified in such distinguished company and as someone who has made a difference to both the AfricanAmerican community and our nation,” said Ms. Shank. “I am especially proud that our firm is so instrumental in helping secure funding for the next generation of important public infrastructure projects including schools, housing, hospitals, roads, bridges, airports transportation, utilities and so much more. Each and every day millions of people benefit from the projects we financed. The Savannah, Georgia native earned a B.S. in Civil Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology and began a career as an engineer with General Dynamics working on submarines. She then earned an MBA in finance from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania and started her career in municipal finance in 1986. Ms. Shank has also been deeply involved in mentoring and giving back to her community. She spearheaded the formation of the Detroit Summer Finance Institute, an internship program that exposes inner city high school high school students to careers in the business and financial world. Additional information of Siebert Brandford Shank & Company LLC can be found at www.sbsco. com and more information on “The Grio’s 100” can be found at www.theGrio.com.
76 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Community/Public Interest
Cheerios Ad with MixedRace Family Draws Racist Responses
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recent Cheerios commercial featuring a biracial family has prompted a debate over race in America after drawing a host of ugly remarks online. The commercial features a biracial daughter asking her white mother if Cheerios are good for your heart, and then dumping a batch on her black father’s chest to playfully help his heart while he is sleeping on the couch. Some of the reaction was so offensive that General Mills, the maker of Cheerios, disabled the comments section on the YouTube video of the commercial. General Mills has announced it will not be pulling the ad due to any controversy. “The comments that were made in our view were not family-friendly, and that was really the trigger for us to pull them off,’’ said Camille Gibson, VP marketing for General Mills, on a recent TODAY show. Discussing the development, TODAY’s Donny Deutsch brought personal perspective to bear: While
he applauded Cheerios’ decision to include a mixed-race couple in its commercial, he understood why some companies would shy away from it. “What’s unfortunate is that I still think 97% of companies would stay away from this because they would say, ‘I don’t need the letters.’ Which is a shame, because in reality when you do an ad like this, in reality you’re making a statement about your company: ‘We’re progressive, we’re inclusive, we are about today.’ “Great advertising holds up a mirror to who we are and where we’re going. We see it in TV, we see
it in movies, and advertising is still very late to the game. My challenge to advertisers out there – get with where the country is going.” According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the number of people reporting that they are of two or more races reached 9 million during the 2010 U.S. census, a 32% increase from 2000 to 2010. There were 16 states with 200,000 or more people reporting as more than one race, including half a million or more in California, Texas and New York. Recent law school graduate Meagan Hatcher-Mays, the daughter of a black mother and a white father, believes the Cheerios
commercial represents progress. “I think this commercial is a really big step for interracial families,’’ Hatcher-Mays said on TODAY. “The commercial represents that we exist.” “Advertisers have really one objective – to make money for their shareholders,’’ Deutsch said. “So if in reality there is one percent of this country that are interracial couples, that’s probably what the representation should be. This is a smart way to sell product and that’s why (Cheerios is) doing it. Your responsibility is to do what’s right for your brand, and for Cheerios this is right.” Over the years, mixed-race families have rarely been seen on commercials. However, in a country whose president, Barack Obama, is the son of mixed-race parents, Cheerios feels the commercial reflects a growing reality. “Ultimately we were trying to portray an American family, and there are lots of multicultural families in America today,’’ Gibson said. But a number of people disagreed vehemently with that point of view on YouTube, resulting in the comments being shut down. “Just gross, outrageous stuff, and the kind of stuff that’s really rooted in unfair stereotypes of black people, really,’’ Hatcher-Mays said. “I’m not surprised at the reaction, because social media is kind of the new Ku Klux Klan white hood,’’ TODAY’s Star Jones said Monday. “It allows you to be anonymous and to say the kinds of things that you would never say to a person to their face. I think younger people have gotten used to seeing black and white, and Latin and black, and Latin and white. That’s not going to be an issue in years to come.” www.today.com/news/cheerios-admixed-race-family-draws-racistresponses-6C10169988
77 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Community/Public Interest
McDonald’s CEO Claims to Lose 20 Pounds on “McDiet”
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cDonald’s CEO Don Thompson says he lost 20 pounds by eating at McDonald’s. According to the Associated Press, his “McDiet” was just part of his plan for his dramatic weight loss. Thompson also spent more hours working out. However, he ate off the Golden Arches menu “every single day” and emphasized “balance” to shed pounds. Though he didn’t elaborate on exactly which McD’s items he ate, Thompson did note at an analysts conference hosted by Sanford Bernstein that there are plenty of health-focused options at McDonald’s. It was revealed at the meeting, however, that those items aren’t quite as popular as their signature burgers; salads make up just 2% to 3% of the company’s sales.
This news comes on the heels of a 9-year-old girl accusing the CEO
of pushing fast-food on kids. Hanna Robertson, a daughter of a nutrition activist and blogger, attended the McDonald’s shareholders meeting at the company’s headquarters and challenged the CEO during the Q&A session, reports UPI. “Something that I don’t think is fair is when big companies try to talk kids into eating foods, that isn’t good for them by using toys and cartoons characters,” she said. Robertson added, “It would be nice if you stopped trying to trick kids into wanting to eat your food all the time.” Thompson did not take the comments lying down. He responded that his own children eat McDonald’s and also cook with him at home using “a lot of fruits and veggies.” McDonald’s announced recently that they were going to post calorie count on the menu as well as at the drive-thru. The move came at the request of consumers who wanted the information more accessible. According to the press release, the fast-food chain’s goal is to “further inform and help customers and employees make nutrition-minded choices.” The calorie count will also be listed on beverages — shakes, coffees, and sodas — the latter being the source of much controversy, due to the soda ban which calls for menus to slash beverages more than 16
Don Thompson ounces in New York City. But the real question is: does posting calories cause people to make healthier choices? According to the International Food information Council Foundation, only 15% of us accurately count calories each day. Still those figures are not dissuading the experts from believing posting calories will have an impact. Margo Wootan, director of nutrition at the Center for Science in the Public Interest told the Associated Press, “It could have a big effect over time.” And for those who were waiting for the day the golden arches would serve up egg whites, it might be sooner than you think. McDonald’s also announced they would be adding more healthy options to their menu such as: an egg-white breakfast sandwich on whole grain English muffin, three new McWrap flavors, and a grilled chicken McNugget. www.delish.com/food/recallsreviews/mcdonalds-ceo-mcdietweight-loss
79 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Community/Public Interest
The White House Kitchen Garden Summer Harvest
First Lady Michelle Obama harvests vegetables with students in the White House Kitchen Garden on the South Lawn. (Official White House Photo by Chuck Kennedy)
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group of student helpers recently joined First Lady Michelle Obama for the summer White House Kitchen Garden Harvest. For this harvest, the First Lady invited children from two New Jersey communities that were affected by Hurricane Sandy and invited back all the children who helped plant the garden in April so they could see the fruits of their labors. First Lady Michelle Obama and the students got their hands dirty picking produce from the garden. “So we’re here to harvest and we’re going to clear this out, right? Right, Sam? I know I’m going to
be pulling up some radishes and doing some lettuce, but you guys are going to help harvest everything that’s over there.” After they were done harvesting they had a chance to try some of the vegetables they picked -- on a grilled garden pizza. “We’re going to actually get to eat what we harvest today. So in addition to doing some harvesting, you guys are going to help -- we’re going to do some veggie flatbread pizzas with the vegetables from the garden. You guys up for a little cooking, too?” Watch a video of the planting on YouTube (www.youtube.com/
watch?v=pQqcP61W9vc). Want to plant your own garden? Check out the Let’s Move Gardening Guides (www. letsmove.gov/gardening-guide): • How to plant a kitchen garden - www.letsmove.gov/kitchengarden-checklist • How to plant a school garden - www.letsmove.gov/schoolgarden-checklist • How to plant a community garden - www.letsmove.gov/ community-garden-checklist www.whitehouse.gov/ blog/2013/05/28/white-housekitchen-garden-summer-harvest
80 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
The Economic Turn Around in the USA is in Our Hands •Buy Products Made or Assembled in the USA •Hire One New Employee •Eat an Extra Meal Out Each Week •Start/Grow a Business to Generate Wealth & Jobs
Buy Black Save Black Invest Black 81 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Join us for a two day summit on one of Africa’s fastest growing economies Africa’s recent economic surge is fueling optimism about the continent’s prospects and positioning it in the minds of many investors and businesses as a significant opportunity. Blessed with a wealth of natural resources and a large, young and growing population, many economies in Africa are enjoying rates of growth and development that are the envy of the emerging world. While sections of the continent still face steep challenges, Ghana is well placed to benefit from the forces of beneficial change in the region. • Strong and sustained growth in recent years - with the country benefiting from high global commodity prices and continued political stability • A youthful and better educated workforce, with half of the population under 20 • The emergence of a new generation of tech-savvy entrepreneurs. Ghana has one of the most developed telecommunications sectors in Africa, with mobile phone penetration surpassing the 100% barrier • A concerted effort by the government to attract foreign investment and improve ease of doing business
However, Ghana faces serious challenges too. Its economy remains vulnerable to external factors— in particular the risk of a slowdown in China, the global commodity cycle and high inflation. The Ghana Investment Summit will openly explore the risks and opportunities—tensions and compromises—that are facing this thriving global African economy. It will bring together over 150 leaders from government, business and finance who are invested or otherwise interested in Ghana’s future. Register you interest today: http://response.economistconferences.co.uk/cemea-register-interest. 83 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
International
Obama Must See Africa in New Light Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.
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hen President Obama and the first lady travel to Africa at the end of this month, they will receive a rapturous greeting. The president’s deep roots in Kenya, the land of
conflict. After 246 years of the slave trade, 100 years of colonialism, African suffering and struggle are known. But perhaps the president’s visit will enable us to see the possibilities. Africa is the secondlargest continent in the world, larger than China, the U n i t e d States and Europe combined in land area. Its peoples H.E. Jakaya Kikwete, President number United Republic of Tanzania about oneeighth of his father, resonate throughout the world’s population. It is a richly the continent. His success in the endowed continent, providing some United States evokes pride and joy 22% of the world’s gold, 55% of in Africa. I write this from Nigeria, a country that has just celebrated its 14th year of democracy. President Obama’s election enabled Africans to see America in a new light. I hope his visit will enable Americans to see Africa with new eyes. We know the H.E. Jacob Zuma, President problems of Africa: its Republic of South Africa poverty, corruption and
H.E. Macky Sall, President Republic of Senegal its diamonds, and 12.5% of its oil. Seven of the 10 fastest-growing economies in the world are in subSaharan Africa. It is still marked by poverty, but extreme poverty has been declining at about 1% a year. Nigeria has twice the population of any other African country. It is growing at 7% a year, and will be Africa’s largest economy within the decade. It is a major supplier of oil to the U.S., and potentially a major trading partner. Nigeria’s GDP is three times that of any other West African country. It is the largest destination for foreign direct investment on the continent. It sends 7,100 students to the U.S. for university programs. Its democracy is taking root. The sun is rising in this land of potential. see Africa’s New Light on page 85
84 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
International
Africa’s New Light
an exodus of professionals. The president will visit Senegal, Tanzania and South Africa with a large delegation of business leaders and investors. Tanzania and Senegal are among the
months after Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit. Americans will from page 84 get a new understanding of how aggressively China has reached Nigeria still has deep challenges out to Africa, providing aid, to overcome. Its infrastructure investments and securing supplies is outmoded; its health care and of oil and other raw materials. For economic, national security and humanitarian concerns, America has every reason to open up closer ties with the nations on that continent. Independent Africa is still young. It was only 57 years ago when Kwame Nkrumah founded Ghana, its first independent nation. Now there are young, growing democracies, moving from the struggle for independence to the struggle for legitimate governance and economic development. Think of the United States 50 years after its historic revolution. Our institutions were still being formed; we were still trading in slaves, denying women equal rights, headed toward a violent civil war. Democracy and development President Barack Obama speaks in the Cabinet Room of the White House in are roads with twists and turns. Washington, March 28, 2013, after a meeting with, from left, Senegal President In Africa, as the president’s visit Macky Sall; Malawi President Joyce Banda; Sierra Leone President Ernest Bai will expose, the turns are now Koroma; and Cape Verde Prime Minister José Maria Pereira Neves . [AP Photo] positive. We would be well advised to contribute to the progress, education systems inadequate; fastest-growing economies on to invest in the promise, and to corruption remains a curse, and the continent. The U.S. is not the bolster the push for human rights, 60% of the population remains only country interested in these development and democracy. www.rainbowpush.org below the poverty line. Like many new possibilities. The president www.chicagosuntimes.com African countries, it struggles with will arrive in Tanzania three
International
Founder of ‘Nigeria’s Netflix’ and Partners Invest $1 Million For Nigerian Tech Startups by Janell Hazelwood for Black Enterprise
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eb entrepreneurs of iROKOtv (http://irokotv. com) and Nollywood fame, Jason Njoku and Bastian Gotter, have initiated $1 million in investment for Nigerian tech startups with the official launch of SPARK (www.spark.ng). Based in Lagos, Nigeria, the company will support and develop aspiring tech and Internet entrepreneurs and is set to fill the vacuum that currently exists in Africa’s angel investment
eco-system. SPARK-funded companies, managed by Njoku, Gotter and Mary Remmy-Njoku, will share the same administrative infrastructure, legal teams, mentors and marketing support. The company will focus on well-defined and scalable revenue models and has, to-date, seed funded or created 13 startups, including a travel lodging site, a Christian
dating site and a property rental site. Companies in the SPARK network currently employ 80 people and SPARK also plans to expand to create or fund 7 more companies by the end of this year. In an exclusive interview with BlackEnterprise.com, Njoku talked further about what SPARK means for Africa, who will benefit and why he and his partners—including
his wife, Mary—are committed to expanding the reach of technological advances and opportunities on the continent. BlackEnterprise.com: What see Nigerian Tech Startups on page 87
Internationl
Nigerian Tech Startups from page 86
was the motivation to invest in startup resources for Nigerian entrepreneurs? Njoku: When I was starting out with my online Nollywood business idea back in 2010, no one would take me seriously. None of my Nigerian friends who knew about Nollywood, or people who had the disposable income who could have been potential investors, would invest in me or my ‘crazy’ idea of bringing Nigerian cinema to a Diaspora audience online. Getting a loan from a Nigerian bank? Forget it. They don’t lend to young start-up companies or entrepreneurs and even if they did, their interest rates are outrageous. It was my best friend from University, Bastian Gotter, who saw the potential in what I was working
on. He seedfunded me all the way from living at home with my mom in London to an office and full team in Lagos. … The business would never, without a doubt, have happened without Bastian. I was lucky I had a friend who could provide not only capital, but Jason Njoku and Bastian Gotter, of iROKO Partners, have also business launched SPARK, a $1 million venture that will invest expertise and in Nigeria’s most talented tech entrepreneurs. (Image: support, but how iROKO Partners) many people out here in Nigeria have a friend like entrepreneur. They had one thing in Bastian? Very very few indeed. common; no access to capital and no The launch of iROKOtv took me means of actually starting a serious all around Africa, and I met a lot of business. Awesome ideas from young, creative, talented people talented young people were going see Nigerian Tech Startups on page 88 all thirsty for a chance at being an
International
Nigerian Tech Startups from page 87
to waste, which is where SPARK enters. Bastian and I, having seen the huge potential of the Internet and tech space in Nigeria, decided to set up a company that helps build companie— like iROKOtv in its earliest days — to become awesome Nigerian businesses of the future.
Have the 7 remaining startups SPARK plans to work with already been identified or chosen? If not, what groups will benefit from this? We have so far identified 13 startups. They range from a cool t-shirt company to a property rental site—online services that are the norm in the West, but don’t really exist in Nigeria—until now. In our experience, the Internet is a young person’s game, so we’re working mostly with young people who understand the sector and who have the energy and willingness to put in the leg work. However, we are not focusing on any one particular group and we don’t discriminate. If you come to us with an awesome idea for an Internet
NOLLYWOOD
Nollywood is the world’s second of largest movie industry in terms per lms fi 40 y output, making roughl ,000 week, at an average cost of $40 al per project. It is a global, cultur s lion mil by red phenomenon, ado the oss in Nigeria, in Africa and acr Diaspora. It serves an audience thirsty for love, drama, intrigue, comedy, redemption, action and more. The end product is unique: African stories, by African people, for a lot Africans. And boy, do we have of stories to tell
iROKOtv
company in Nigeria, that fills a e gap in the market and that we The world’s biggest provider can develop and monetize, then of Nollywood content we can have a discussion. Talent iROKOtv is the world’s largest wins at SPARK. If you have it in , abundance, we can make some legal online distributor of Nollywood films, with a library of over 5,0 magic happen. 00 movies. Our on-demand movie s are What stake does SPARK totally free to watch on iROKO tv have, if any, in these users simply have to register via companies after initial Facebook or email. capital and non-tangible iROKOtv works with Nollywood (ie. resource) investment? royalty including Tonto Dikeh, In cases where the Funke Akindele and Mr. Ibu, as opportunities are big but there part of an active ambassador is no one working on it, SPARK programme to promoting the creates the company and hires awesomeness of No llywood to new a team to run it. In that case and existing audiences. SPARK will own 100%. After an initial period, the team is given share options based on having a series off conversations performance. We’re flexible enough with people to find out how we can to tailor our business models, work together. depending on what is required at www.blackenterprise.com/career/ the time. iroko-partners-jason-njoku-1How can entrepreneurs million-tech-startups-spark-nigeria
get involved with this? (Application process? Qualifications? etc.)
People should come to us via a www.spark.ng with big ideas,, energy, passion, an in-depth h understanding of the markett they the want to conquer, and,, [most] [m importantly, a means off monetizing mo their ideas. In the e West, W VCs and angel investors will wi fund ideas that don’t have an immediate revenue model. We W don’t have this luxury in Nigeria, so the people we work N with w must have a business brain br as well as creative talent. We don’t insist upon ta qualifi q cations, although many of the people we’re working with w have gone through the University route. We th d don’t do huge PowerPoint decks; (Who has the time d to go through 90 pages of pictures, p key objectives and graphs?) Instead, we like g
iROKOING
Nigerian Music. Anytime, Anywhere! In just under a year, iROKING has become the largest digital infrastructure partner to the Nig erian and African music industry, par tnering artists such as P-Square, Flavou r, 2face and Timaya. iROKING allo ws users to stream music, watch a music video or download music onto their mobile phone. iROKING has been successful in generating digital music revenu es for artists outside of Africa fro m the Diaspora and is rapidly expand ing across the continent in order to generate revenue for its artists . iROKING exists to bridge the gap between artists producing con tent and an audience consuming con tent online and interconnects video content and paid download con tent.
88 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
THE WHITE HOUSE NATIONAL CARIBBEAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH, 2013 BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION
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or centuries, the United States and nations in the Caribbean have grown alongside each other as partners in progress. Separated by sea but united by a yearning for independence, our countries won the right to chart their own destinies after generations of colonial rule. Time and again, we have led the way to a brighter future together -- from lifting the stains of slavery and segregation to widening the circle of opportunity for our sons and daughters. National Caribbean-American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate those enduring achievements. It is also a chance to recognize men and women who trace their roots to the Caribbean. Through every chapter of our Nation’s history, Caribbean Americans have made our country stronger -- reshaping our politics and reigniting the arts, spurring our movements and answering the call to serve. Caribbean traditions have enriched our own, and woven new threads into our cultural fabric. Again and again, Caribbean immigrants and their descendants have reaffirmed America’s promise as a land of opportunity -- a place where no matter who you are or where you come from, you can make it if you try. Together, as a Nation of immigrants, we will keep writing that story. And alongside our partners throughout the Caribbean, we will keep working to achieve inclusive economic growth, access to clean and affordable energy, enhanced security, and lasting opportunity for all our people. As we honor Caribbean Americans this month, let us strengthen the ties that bind us as members of the Pan American community, and let us resolve to carry them forward in the years ahead. NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim June 2013 as National Caribbean-American Heritage Month. I encourage all Americans to celebrate the history and culture of Caribbean Americans with appropriate ceremonies and activities. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand thirteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-seventh.
BARACK OBAMA
International
BROADCAST, FILM AND MUSIC AFRICA 2013 By Sean Moroney
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Major boost for local content development in President Kenyatta’s speech to opening session of Parliament
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he growing importance of Kenya’s electronic media and creative content industries was emphasised in President
He also announced that a national lottery would be introduced to fund creative arts and sports. The new government’s focus on the creative arts and broadcasting will heighten the relevance of this year’s Broadcast, Film & Music Africa Conference, taking place at Nairobi’s prestigious Kenyatta
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Kenyatta’s speech to the opening session of Parliament in which he said his government would introduce legislation to increase the required level of local content for local free-to-air TV channels from 40% to 60%. Referring to the recent international accolades for Kenyan, productions, he gave a great boost to Kenya’s creative arts industry by stating in no uncertain terms the vital role the sector has to play in the economy: “Kenyans who have received international recognition have shown that investing in the arts and entertainment sectors will not only create jobs. It will boost tourism and promote our culture around the world.”
international Conference Centre over 26-27 June. Content development will be a major focus of the conference, which bills itself as “The Business & Technology Event for Creative Content & Electronic Media in Africa”. The conference is aimed at senior and middle managers in: • National television stations • National radio stations. • Pay TV companies using cable, IP-TV or satellite. • International broadcasting
services like CNN, BBC, NBC, VOA, China Broadcasting, Deutsche Welle, Al Jazeera, Radio Japan, Radio Moscow, Radio France International and Radio Netherlands. Television and film production companies. Facilities providers including production equipment hire, post-production and outside broadcast. Organisations like donors and faith-based organisations that run their own broadcast organisations for development purposes. Television and film equipment vendors and satellite capacity suppliers. Advertising and marketing agencies. Mobile and fixed telephone operators looking at convergence opportunities. Library Facilities for music, commercials and programmes.
Over 80 local and international experts will be making presentations, participating in panel discussions or leading training workshops over the two-day event, attendend by over 1,000 film, broadcast and content development professionals from throughout the continent. http://aitecafrica.com/event/view/93 http://aitecafrica.com/news/ view/239
90 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
International
Welcome to Aitec Africa ICT
Empowering Africa’s ICT Community with Knowledge
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he core business of Aitec Africa’s since 1987 has been focussed on ICT publishing, event management, professional development and training in Africa. The Aitec Africa (African IT Exhibitions and Conferences) has been a market-leading pioneer in terms of spreading knowledge on the Internet, computing and telecommunications across most of English-speaking Africa. You can see from our schedule of upcoming events that Aitec Africa is the national focal point for ICT within Africa. Upcoming events include: • Broadcast, Film & Music Africa 2013, 26-27 June 2013, Kenyatta International Conference Centre Harambee Avenue, Nairobi, Kenya • Africa Media Business Exchange, 27-27 June 2013, Kenyatta International Conference Centre Harambee Avenue, Nairobi, Kenya • AITEC Banking & Mobile Money COMESA 2013, 11-12 September 2013, Intercontinental Hotel Nairobi, Kenya Theme: Consolidating and monetizing the gains of innovation • AITEC Southern Africa ICT Summit, 9-10 October 2013, Girassol Indy Village Congress Hotel Maputo, Mozambique • AITEC East Africa ICT Summit 2013, 20-21 November 2013, Oshwal Centre Westlands, Nairobi • AfriHealth 2013, 20-21 November 2013, Oshwal Centre Parklands, Nairobi http://aitecafrica.com www.facebook.com/pages/AitecAfrica/143207745706922
International
Brazil to Open 147 New Hotels Before FIFA World Cup 2014
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n preparation for hosting the 2014 FIFA World Cup, a 30-day soccer tournament that will travel to 12 host cities in Brazil, as well as the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, major infrastructure improvements are well under way. In a press briefing held last week by Embratur, the Brazilian Tourism Board, director of marketing Walter Vasconcelos noted that 147 new hotels will open in the country in time to host World Cup travelers. Sixteen major global brands will be represented, including Sofitel, Hilton and Marriott. Brazil also has invested US$16.5 billion to build seven new stadiums, expand airports, and enhance transportation
and telecommunications, among other improvements. Most of the stadiums that will host the games are equipped with green technology, including seven that use solar power as an energy source. Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff took a swipe at naysayers as she recently officially inaugurated the last of six stadiums that Brazil will use next month to host a warm-up for the 2014 World Cup tournament. “The pessimists said the stadiums would not be ready in time, but we are showing them today that we can deliver high-quality stadiums,” Rousseff said in a speech in Recife before opening the 46,000-seat
Arena Pernambuco outside the northeastern Brazilian city. These sweeping developments will leave a lasting legacy for future group business, said Vasconcelos. In newly released rankings from the International Congress and Convention Association, Brazil is seventh in terms of the number of international conventions it hosts annually. Vasconcelos predicts the country will rise to fifth on the list within the next few years. www.meetings-conventions.com/articles/ brazil-to-open-147-new-hotels-before-fifaworld-cup-2014/c54742.aspx http://gulfnews.com/sport/football/brazils-new-stadiums-have-world-cup-insight-1.1186385
Morumbi Stadium
92 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
International
BCCC BREAKFAST SEMINAR
Booming Opportunities in Brazilian Retail The retail scenario in Brazil follows the expansion of the local economy. With 35 million people rising from poverty to middle class it is crucial to understand the opportunities and needs of different segments. The retail industry in Brazil is currently growing and offers many opportunities, but knowing how to navigate through the bureaucratic challenges, especially avoiding legal pitfalls, can be a major competitive advantage. Aside from covering the factors that favor the current Brazilian retail sector, this presentation also explores the most recent consumption behaviors of lower and upper income brackets of Brazilian society, discussing ideas on how these behaviors are affecting the bottom line of main industry players. Based on their extensive experience with actual cases, the speakers will also discuss the most common hurdles and challenges the Brazilian economy and market represent to new comers. Thursday, June 20, 2013 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM at the Consulate General of Brazil in Los Angeles 8484 Wilshire Blvd. 3rd floor Conference Room Vinicius de Moraes Beverly Hills, CA 90211 Space is limited. Please RSVP as soon as possible or contact us with any questions. BCCC, LAACC & WIT-LA Chapter members: $10 (paid in full by June 19) Non-Members: $20 (paid in full by June 19) At the door: $30 If you have any questions about this event or any others in the future, please contact our events department. Thank you for your attention and response. We look forward to seeing you at our event! Sincerely, Events Department (323) 370-6206 events@brazilcalifornia.com www.BrazilCalifornia.com 93 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
International
One Africa:
Tell the US Government that North Africa is Africa Too!
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oin with and support the United Africa Organization’s campaign to petition the U.S. Department of State to include the whole African continent under its Bureau of African Affairs.
Why? The State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs, led by Assistant Secretary Johnnie Carson, currently excludes Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Morocco, Tunisia and Western Sahara from its agenda. Instead, the aforementioned countries are grouped with the Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs, together with Iran, Iraq, Israel and others. This artificial distinction between North Africa and the rest of Africa
negatively impacts US foreign policy relations throughout the entire continent of Africa. We unequivocally reject the argument that North African countries are outside the scope of African affairs. North Africa is geographically and historically part of the African continent, and all fifty-three (53) independent African states, including North African countries, are represented in the African Union (AU). It would be far more productive for the State Department to engage with the entire continent of Africa, including North Africa, under its Bureau of African Affairs. We are one Africa, from the Cape to Cairo, indivisible and bound together! Therefore, no square inch of African
land should be excluded from African affairs.
Sign The Petition!!! Go to www.change.org/petitions/ one-africa-tell-us-state-departmentthat-north-africa-is-part-of-africa and sign the online petition to support this important proposition. Next tell everyone you know to sign.
www.uniteafricans.org
Gathers Strategies, Inc. is in the heart of Downtown LA at
City National Plaza. Gathers Strategies, Inc. 515 South Flower Street, 36th Floor Los Angeles, CA 90071 USA Phone: 213-236-3554 Fax: 213-236-3501 Please stay in touch!
www.gathersstrategies.com Follow us on Twitter @gathersstrat We appreciate your friendship and support and look forward to our continued association with you.
International
Opportunities in
Bio-Fuel Markets in Africa
Saturday, June 15, 2013 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Brief Summary of the Discussion: Overview of: • Global Bio-Fuel Markets of Africa and Nigeria • Bio-Fuel Market Potentials of Bio-fuel to Energy Mix in Nigeria & Africa
Medallion Communication Limited 8A Saka Tinubu Street Victoria Island Lagos, Nigeria Mr. Kunle Odebunmi odebunmikunle210@yahoo.com
• Bio-fuel Production using 2nd & 3rd Generation Technologies • Bio-fuel Markets - Job Creation & Economic Opportunities • Investment Landscape - How Investors can Participate Featured Presenter: Mr. Femi Oye, SMEFUNDS A Renewable Energy Senator, recipient of World Youth Leader’s Award, UNDP/BOI Renewable Energy facility Award winner, African Social Enterprise Award, Conference speaker, IT visionary, Business and Social Entrepreneur. For over 15 years, Femi has committed his strengths and resources toward evolving visionary entrepreneurs ending poverty in Africa through the creation of job opportunities, increasing productivity and providing mentorship.Femi is the Co-Founder/CEO of SMEFUNDS, an International NGO fighting to end poverty through the promotion of sustainable enterprise development in Africa. The platform, SMEFUNDS accelerates the flow of finance to SMEs in Africa using social investments and ethical financial intermediation solutions. His goSolarAfrica’ energy and environmental program promotes clean and green energy to support household at the Bottom of the Pyramid (BoP), combats Climate change, and increases Youth employment in the green sector in Nigeria. The ongoing projects of SMEFUNDS include Green Collar Job Fellowship, Access to Finance and Go Green Nigeria.With the organization’s recently launched Carbon Credit Network, he attempts to offer the 1st Carbon trading platform in Africa that seeks to place Free Solar Home System on millions of residential apartments with a 10 year locked-in contract which removes the barrier to solar home system adoption while earning million tons in carbon credit through the biofuel ethanol and other green products from the organization. He said, Climate Change Problem is a good business! His motivation is to continue to engage enterprise solutions to attempt new approaches; not just to help transform businesses, but ultimately empower individuals to aspire to their inspiration.
95 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
International
www.zambiausachamber.org
African Stock Exchanges • Bolsa de Valores of Cape Verde - www.bvc.cv (in Portuguese) • Bond Exchange of South Africa - www.bondexchange. co.za • Botswana Stock Exchange www.bse.co.bw • Bourse Regionale des Valeurs Mobilieres - UEMOA (Abidjan, Ivory Coast) - www.brvm.org • Casablanca Stock Exchange (Morocco) - www.casablancabourse.com/bourseweb/index. aspx • Dar es Salaam Stock Exchange (Tanzania) - www. dse.co.tz • Douala Stock Exchange (Cameroon) - www.douala-stockexchange.com/index_us.php • The Egyptian Exchange - www. egx.com.eg/English/homepage. aspx • Ethiopia Commodity Exchange - www.ecx.com.et • Ghana Stock Exchange - www. gse.com.gh • Johannesburg Stock Exchange (South Africa) - www. jse.co.za/Home.aspx • Khartoum Stock Exchange
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(Sudan, in Arabic) - www.kse. com.sd Libyan Stock Market - www. lsm.ly/_layouts/membership/ login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2fEnglis h%2fPages%2fdefault.aspx Lusaka Stock Exchange (Zambia) - www.luse.co.zm Nairobi Stock Exchange (Kenya) - www.luse.co.zm Malawi Stock Exchange - www. mse.co.mw Mozambique Stock Exchange (in Portuguese) - www. bolsadevalores.co.mz Namibian Stock Exchange www.nsx.com.na Nigerian Stock Exchange -
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www.nse.com.ng/Pages/default. aspx Stock Exchange of Mauritius www.stockexchangeofmauritius. com Swaziland Stock Exchange www.ssx.org.sz Tunisia Stock Exchange - www. bvmt.com.tn Uganda Securities Exchange www.use.or.ug
Read the last issue of The Exchange Magazine www.nse.co.ke/media-center/ecommunique/exchange-magazine/ category/50-free-version.html)
96 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
see On The Rise on page 98 98 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
International
260,000 Died in Somali Famine of 2010-2012
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he 2011 Somali famine killed an estimated 260,000 people, half of them age 5 and under, according to a new report that
three insisted they not be identified because they were not authorized to share the report’s contents before it is officially released.
Children from southern Somalia hold their pots as they line up to receive cooked food in Mogadishu, Somalia. (AP Photo/Farah Abdi Warsameh, File, 8-15-11)
more than doubles previous death toll estimates, officials told The Associated Press. The aid community believes that tens of thousands of people died needlessly because the international community was slow to respond to early signs of approaching hunger in East Africa in late 2010 and early 2011. The toll was also exacerbated by extremist militants from al-Shabab who banned food aid deliveries to the areas of south-central Somalia that they controlled. Those same militants have also made the task of figuring out an accurate death toll extremely difficult. A Western official briefed on the new report — the most authoritative to date — told AP that it says 260,000 people died, and that half the victims were 5 and under. Two other international officials briefed on the report confirmed that the toll was in the quarter-million range. All
The report is being made public by FEWSNET (www.fews.net), a famine early warning system funded by the U.S. government’s aid arm USAID, and by the Food Security and Nutrition Analysis Unit - Somalia (FSNAU) (http:// fsnau.org), which is funded by the U.S. and Britain. A previous estimate by the U.K. government said between 50,000 and 100,000 people died in the famine. The new report used research conducted by specialists experienced in estimating death tolls in emergencies and disasters. Those researchers relied on food and mortality data compiled by FSNAU. Because of the imprecise nature of the data available, the toll remains only an estimate. Sikander Khan, the head of UNICEF in Somalia, also said he needed to look at the report’s methodology before commenting
specifically. But he said generally that the response to the famine was problematic because it depended on political dynamics. He said the international community needs to change the way it classifies famines. “You lose children by the time people realize it’s met the established definition of famine,” he said. Marthe Everard, the World Health Organization’s country director for Somalia, said she has not yet seen the report but would not be surprised by such a high death toll. “The Somalis themselves were shocked about the number of women and children dying,” she said, adding later: “It should give us lessons learned, but what do we do with it? How do we correct it for next time?” Much of the aid response came after pictures of weak and dying children were publicized by international media outlets around the time the U.N. declared a famine in July 2011. “By then you are too late,” Everard said. A report last year by the aid groups Oxfam and Save the Children found that rich donor nations waited until the crisis was in full swing before donating a substantial amount of money. The report also said aid agencies were slow to respond. Quicker action wouldn’t have prevented the deaths in areas controlled by al-Shabab. The militants prevented many men from leaving the famine-hit region and allowed no emergency food aid in. Thousands of Somalis walked dozens or hundreds of miles to reach camps in Kenya and Ethiopia. Countless numbers of families lost children or elderly members along routes that became known as Roads of Death. http://lasentinel.net/index. php?option=com_content&view=article&id =11025:report-260-000-died-in-somali-fami ne&catid=78:international&Itemid=168
99 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
RESOURCES FOR GOING GLOBAL Dear International Executive,
I
f you have any questions about these initiatives, please contact your local U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist. To find the trade specialist nearest you please visit http://export.gov/usoffices/ index.asp. And, remember to use these outreach tools to grow your international business: Sell Worldwide in the USA Product Showcase; Commercial News USA: Buy 2, Get 1 Free; and Read the Digital Edition of America’s Export Promotion Magazine. Happy Exporting! ************************* Event: STOPfakes.gov: Protecting Your Intellectual Property Rights Location: Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce 350 S Bixel Street Los Angeles, CA 90017 Date/Time: June 25, 2013 / 10:00AM - 3:15PM Cost: $65 Register: https://emenuapps.ita. doc.gov/ePublic/event/editWebReg. do?SmartCode=3Q8Z Intellectual Property Rights Seminar The intellectual property rights (IPR) enforcement outreach program brought to you by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s office of Intellectual Property Rights, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, and the U.S. Commercial Service. Seminar Topics will include: • Hear from the U.S. Dept. of Commerce Office of Intellectual Property Rights, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, and the National IPR Coordination Center. • Learn the basics of obtaining and protecting intellectual property rights in the United States and globally. • Learn about best practices and common mistakes; remedies for counterfeiting, piracy, and trade
secret theft; and law enforcement resources for IP protection. • Learn about trade secrets, obtaining/maintaining trademarks and copyrights, and enforcing IPR in the US and abroad. Event: ExporTech Corporate Management Program Location: Claremont University Consortium, 101 N. Mills Ave Claremont, California 91711 Date/Time: June 26, 2013 from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM (PDT) Cost: $5000 for three sessions Learn more/register at: Link to register: http://cmtcexportechjune2013. eventbrite.com Companies participate in three one-day sessions scheduled over a three-month period. In between, each company works on the development and implementation of their international growth plan, with the support of a coach. For more information, please contact Elizabeth Glynn, CMTC, California at 310-984-0728 or eglynn@cmtc.com. Event: STOPfakes.gov: Protecting Your Intellectual Property Rights Location: Cal State San Marcos, San Marcos, CA Date/Time: June 27, 2013 8 am – 2:30 pm Cost: $60.00 Register: http://stopfakessandiego. eventbrite.com The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Office of Intellectual Property Rights, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and U.S. Commercial Service cordially invite you to attend the STOPfakes. gov Road Show, an Intellectual Property Rights Enforcement Outreach Program. This is an opportunity to learn the basics of intellectual property rights (IPR) protection and U.S. government resources available to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) protect their IPR at home and abroad.
The program is sponsored by the San Diego Export Assistance Center and California State University San Marcos. This six-hour program will feature presentations by intellectual property experts and law enforcement officials, followed by an open discussion with experts from industry and government. One on one appointments will be available the last hour and a half of the program with pre-registration at the start of the event. Seminar topics will include: • What is Intellectual Property? • Understand the basics of obtaining Intellectual Property Rights in the U.S./Resources • Understand the basics of obtaining intellectual Property Rights in other Countries/Resources • How to enforce your Intellectual Property Rights in the U.S./ Resources • How to enforce your Intellectual Property Rights Overseas/ Resources Event: Brazil Waste-to-Energy and Landfill Gas-to-Energy Reverse Trade Mission. Location: Long Beach SBDC Downtown Office Date/Time: Friday, June 28th 9:00am4:00pm Cost: FREE of charge Register: JContact David Elliott at (757) 342-2149 or email at davidelliott@kealtd.com A business roundtable with senior waste management delegation from the public and private sectors in Brazil. Brazil has experienced increased urbanization challenges that include an increase of solid waste generation. The Brazilian government has tightened their control over the sector and in 2010, the country enacted a new National Solid Waste Management see Going Global on page 101
100 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Going Global from page 100
law, imposing stringent environmental regulations and restricts the creation and expansion of existing landfills. The roundtable will provide information on Brazilian waste management projects and investment opportunities for U.S. companies through a dialogue between the U.S. and Brazilian participants. Event: ExporTech Corporate Management Program San Fernando Valley Location: Airtel Plaza Hotel 7277 Valjean Ave Los Angeles, CA 91406 Date/Time: July 24, August 21, September 18, 2013 Cost: $5000 for three sessions Learn more/register at: http:// cmtcexportechjuly2013.eventbrite.com Companies participate in three one-day sessions scheduled over a three-month period. In between, each company works on the development and implementation of their international growth plan, with the support of a coach. For more information, please contact Elizabeth Glynn, CMTC, California at 310-9840728 or eglynn@cmtc.com Event: 2013 Export Workshop Series Location: ITT Technical Institute – Sylmar Date/Time: May 1-August 7, 201 Cost: FREE of charge Register: Jean Coronel at jcoronel@ portla.org or register at: http://tinyurl. com/ExportUSFValley Eight International Trade Workshops will be presented every two weeks from May 1, 2013 through August 7, 2013. Export counseling will be offered by appointment in Session 8. Session topics include the following: • July 24: Legal Do’s and Don’ts for Exporters • August 7: Freight & Logistics /Export Planning and Counseling Sell Worldwide in the USA Product Showcase for Just $499 Commercial News USA, the official export promotion magazine of the
U.S. Department of Commerce, offers exporters an affordable way to promote their products and services in 178 countries worldwide. Now, you can advertise in the USA Product Showcase section of the magazine for just $499. Commercial News USA reaches more than a quarter-million buyers worldwide in print and 23,000 per month online. Reserve your space in the next issue today. For more information, call 1-800-581-8533 x 822, go online to http://www.thinkglobal.us, or send e-mail to export@thinkglobal.us. Follow Commercial News USA on LinkedIn and Twitter @comnewsusa Commercial News USA: Buy 2, Get 1 Free Commercial News USA, the official export promotion magazine of the U.S. Department of Commerce, offers exporters an affordable way to promote their products and services in 178 countries worldwide. Commercial News USA, the official export promotion magazine of the U.S. Department of Commerce, offers exporters an inexpensive way to promote their products and services in 178 countries worldwide. In addition to free Portuguese translation, you can take advantage of a special offer: Buy two ads and get the third ad for free (Based on one-time rates. Does not include Showcase section). Commercial News USA reaches more than a quarter million buyers worldwide. Reserve your space in the next issue today. For more information, call 1-800-581-8533 x 822, go online to http://www.thinkglobal. us, or send e-mail to advertise@ thinkglobal.us. Follow Commercial News USA on LinkedIn and Twitter @ comnewsusa. Read the Digital Edition of Commercial News USA Commercial News USA, the official export promotion magazine of the U.S. Department of Commerce, has launched a new interactive PDF edition. The new edition is available for free at http://cnusa.thinkglobal. us Commercial News USA offers exporters an affordable way to promote their products and services in 178 countries worldwide. Now, you can
take advantage of a special offer: Buy two ads and get the third ad for free (Based on one-time rates. Does not include Showcase section). Moreover, you will receive a free online listing in Portuguese. Commercial News USA reaches more than a quarter-million buyers worldwide. Reserve your space in the next issue today. For more information, contact your U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist, call 1-800-581-8533 x 822, go online to http://www.thinkglobal.us, or send e-mail to advertise@thinkglobal.us The U.S. Commercial Service - Your Global Business Partner. With offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration uses its global Network and international resources to connect U.S companies with international buyers worldwide. If you have any questions about these initiatives, please contact your local U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist. To find the trade specialist nearest you please visit http:// export.gov/usoffices/index.asp. Your privacy is important to us. Please note that we do not share our lists with parties outside of the U.S. Department of Commerce. You may review our privacy policy at http://www. commerce.gov/Privacy/index.htm **************************** Interested in a Career in International Affairs, Foreign Relations, Trade Promotion and Commercial Diplomacy? The U.S. Commercial Service is looking for dedicated professionals to add to its complement of nearly 250 Foreign Service Officers serving in Embassies and Consulates around the globe. The U.S. Commercial Service will take applications for Foreign Service Officers starting August 2012 and will hold the Foreign Service Officer Assessment in Winter 2012/2013. To read a detailed description of the position and application process, express your interest and sign up to receive alerts, please visit http:// simplesend.com/simple/t.asp?S=221& ID=55171&NL=5996&N=69348&SI=2 676111&URL=http://www.trade.gov/cs/ employment.asp or e-mail CSCareers@ trade.gov.
101 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
RESOURCES FOR GOING GLOBAL
USDOC Export Regulations Seminar Los Angeles, August 7-8, 2013 REGISTER TODAY: www.regonline.com/bis13 The Bureau of Industry and Security, in cooperation with the Southern California Regional District Export Council, and the U.S. Commercial Service in Southern California, invites you to attend a workshop on the Export Administration Regulations and Export Management Compliance Program. This program is well suited for those who need a comprehensive understanding of their obligations under the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). The workshop will explain: • The scope of the Export Administration Regulations. • How to determine the export licensing requirements for your product. • When you may export without applying for a license. • What an Export Management Compliance Program (“EMCP”) is, and how it can help meet your regulatory responsibilities. • What the Enhanced Proliferation Control Initiative is, and how it affects you. Dates/Time: Aug. 7 – 8, 2013; 8:30 am - 4:00 pm; Registration/Continental Breakfast 7:30 - 8:30 am Cost: $450 for both days includes continental breakfast, lunch and training materials. Location: Sheraton Gateway Hotel Los Angeles. 6101 W. Century Blvd., Los Angeles, California 90045 **Registered attendees will be able receive a preferred rate of $119 per night. Preferred rate ends July 29, 2013.
REGISTER TODAY: www.regonline.com/bis13 Questions?: For more information on the topics covered, please call BIS Western Regional Office at (949) 660-0144 and for arrangement or registration, please call the Irvine U.S. Export Assistance Center at (949) 660-1688 . Americans with Disabilities Act: If special arrangements are required for a disabled individual to attend any of these programs, please notify the contact person at least one week prior to the program. NOTE: The Western Regional Office of the Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security is a State Bar of California approved MCLE provider. This course is worth 12 hours of MCLE credit. However 0 hours will apply to legal ethics/law practice management; prevention, detection and treatment of substance abuse and emotional distress; and elimination of bias.
103 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Thursday Blues at Uncle Darrow‛s High Noon-2pm Every Thursday
Come by for lunch and relax to blues & jazz from our house band! 2560 S. Lincoln Blvd. Marina del Rey North East corner of Washington & Lincoln
“LA Times Magazine favorite cajun food”
310-306-4862
www.uncledarrows.com 104 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Returning to Africa? African Repatriation is an invaluable online resource for any African national who is thinking about returning to Africa. Our industry articles and specialist editorials provide the latest sector information. Why not find out for yourself and become a part of our growing community today? www.africanrepatriation. com
Career Opportunities in Africa Search and apply online for the latest vacancies in Africa with African Talent. We provide candidates and employers with the tools and resources needed in today’s competitive job market. For employers, we offer numerous options to feature your jobs in Africa and for candidates, reviewing the most recent job vacancies in Africa is a fast, easy process. Uploading your CV is simple and takes just a few moments. www.africantalent.com 105 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Eso Won Books
African American Books 4327 Degnan Boulevard, Leimert Park, Los Angeles
Give the Gifts that Keep on Giving! Come see our unsurpassed collection of books, music, videos, children’s books, and games!
323-294-0324 www.esowonbookstore.com //esowon.booksense.com for Calendar of Events
International Edition
Black Business News
View the International Edition at www.bbala.org
Watch & Support the Africa Channel! Time Warner • Comcast Don’t have the Africa Channel in your area? Call Time Warner at: 1-888-892-2253 and ask that the Africa Channel be broadcast to ALL regions of your state. For information on the Africa Channel visit www.theafricachannel. com or send an e-mail inquiry to info@theafricachannel.com.
BLACK MEETINGS & TOURISM DIGITAL MAGAZINE
T
he digital version of Black Meetings & Tourism magazine is available on-line. The current issues, as well as archived issues, can be viewed by visiting www.blackmeetingsandtourism. com and click on the image link located on the home page.The digital version is just a small part of BM&T’s expanded on-line presence, which includes a host of new departments, the twice-monthly e-newsletter, an increased focus on leisure travel, and many new marketing opportunities. The newly designed website offers a guest blog page, a video page and a variety of interactive and custom advertising products that will allow vendors direct access to the more than 45 billion dollar AfricanAmerican travel market.
107 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Leimert Park Village
Shop, Eat, Relax
An African American Cultural, Retail, Foods & Entertainment Center. Degnan Boulevard
Little Ethiopia
between Crenshaw & Leimert Blvds. 43rd Street-43rd Place, Los Angeles
www.sazacc.com
in
Experience Africa in America
Culture, Retail, Entertainment
Fairfax Boulevard between Pico & Olympic Boulevard Los Angeles
Cultural Interiors West &
Cordially Invited Cultural Interiors West 5573 West Pico Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90019 Experience our exciting array of products from Cards to Cupcakes, African Masks, Asian Teacups, Healthy Herbal Teas, Gourd Purses, Candles, to Furniture
Artwear Handpainted Handbags, Skirts, Tees, Accessories, Calendars, Wall Hangings & More! http://gbabysworld.blogspot.com Gbabyartwear@hotmail.com or Gbabyart345@gmail.com Find Gbaby Products at the “Collective” http://www.atthecollective.com 280 Elizabeth Street, Atlanta, GA
Hope to see you soon!!! In the meantime visit us on Facebook www.facebook.com/pages/CulturalInteriors-West/140688362658236
JJ’s Belizean Cuisine 2618 W. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90008 1-323-293-2926
110 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
www.usps.com/ship/express-mail.htm
www.bbala.org 111 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Ask me to Cater Your
Father’s Day Celebration
Bernahu Asfaw & Getahun Asfaw
1041 S. Fairfax Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90019 323-938-8827 or 323-938-8806 • Fax: 323-932-6047 messob@gmail.com • www.messob.com
Open 7 days a week • 11am - 11pm
How to Do Business with Metro - Monthly Workshop DECEMBER July 9, 201311, 2012 9:30am – 12:00 pm ǣ x x x x
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Ǧ Ȁ Ǥ ǯ ǡ ǡ Ǧ Ǥ ǯ Ǧ Ǧ Ǥ ͻǣ͵Ͳ ǤǤ For further questions, please contact Sherman Gay, Ph.D. (HC) at gays@metro.net or at (213)922-3502. Ǥ ሺ ̷ Ǥ ሻ ǡ ǡ ǡ Ȁ Ǥ
114 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
How Can Organizations Participate? > Employers > Financial institutions > Non-profits and governments > Educators and Youth Organizations > Military > Media
How Can Individuals Participate? > Assess your savings progress > Join America Saves > Test your savings knowledge > Take action to save more effectively > View savings messages > Read saver stories
What is America Saves Week? About America Saves Week Our Purpose Participating Organizations America Saves Week 2011 America Saves Week 2010 America Saves Week 2009
Contact Us | Privacy Policy | America Saves
www.americasavesweek.org
www.TheArtofBidding.com is dedicated to the art and science of moving goods and services to market. This web site is useful to business managers responsible for their companies’ supply chain activities. This information is sponsored by the Southland Partnership Corporation that serves a wide range of supply chain management issues for large and small enterprises. Southland is in place to enhance supplier inclusion through the increased flow of goods and services by providing current information from initial sourcing all the way through to delivery to public and private sector endusers. Southland shares vital information of purchasing opportunities from production planning, order processing and fulfillment, inventory management, transportation, distribution, and professional service requirements. For some, this information on proposal estimating will be a refresher on how to submit an effective pricing plan, however, for other companies this may be just the information to create that winning response. All buyers seek to make the best investment when selecting outside resources. The supplier selection results from demonstrating efficiencies and generating the highest level of customer satisfaction at the most responsible lowest cost. In general all major buying entities look at the strategic, tactical, and operational functions of prospective suppliers. 115 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
JWFA
Jamaal Wilkes Financial Advisors, LLC M a n a g i n g We a l t h I n t e l l i g e n t l y
WHY OWN GOLD IN YOUR IRA/401k Changing jobs creates a great opportunity for you to switch, or rollover, your former employer’s retirement plan into an IRA. Plus, it usually provides you with more investment options than if you left the money in your former employer’s plan or rolled the money into your new employer's retirement plan. The early 1980s presented a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to buy stocks. Today, economic and political conditions appear to offer a similar opportunity in tangible assets such as physical gold. With the global economic environment growing more uncertain, physical gold has become the #1 alternative for IRA, 401k, 403b, and Pension Plans, as well as for non-retirement funds. Gold is produced primarily for accumulation while other commodities are produced primarily for consumption. Gold’s value does not arise from its usefulness in industrial or consumable applications. It arises from its use and historical worldwide acceptance as a store of value. Gold is money. A healthy measure of gold clearly belongs in every portfolio for the “Four Ps” – Personal Purchasing Power Protection. There are six primary reasons why investors own gold: As a hedge against inflation. As a hedge against a declining dollar. As a safe haven in times of geopolitical and financial market instability. As a commodity based on gold’s supply and demand fundamentals. As a store of value. As a portfolio diversifier. According to Bloomberg.com, on October 15, 2009, Paul Tudor Jones of Tudor Investment Corp, who manages about $11.6 billion out of Greenwich, Connecticut, told its investors, “I have never been a gold bug… but Gold is just an asset that, like everything else in life, has its time and place. And now is that time…Gold appears to be cheap. In our view, gold’s value should increase as its scarcity relative to printed currencies increases.” JAMAAL WILKES FINANCIAL ADVISORS makes 401(k) rollovers easy with just a few simple steps. Please call us at (310)209-8298 or email gold@jamaalwilkes.com for a web seminar presentation. Jamaal Wilkes Financial Advisors is an independent Registered Investment Advisor www.jamaalwilkes.com Phone: (310)209-8330 6601 Center Drive West, Suite 500 Los Angeles, CA 90045
116 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Books to Consider... The Double V: How Wars, Protest, and Harry Truman Desegregated America’s Military
Rawn James, Jr.
by Rawn James, Jr.
E
xecutive Order 9981, issued by President Harry Truman on July 26, 1948, desegregated all branches of the United States military by decree. EO 9981 is often portrayed as a heroic
of the most truly diverse institutions in America. In The Double V, Rawn James, Jr.the son and grandson of African American veteransexpertly narrates the remarkable history of how the strugge for equality in the military helped give rise to their fight for equality in civilian society. Taking the reader from Crispus Attucks to President Barack Obama, The Double V illuminates the African American military tradition as a metaphor for their unique and dynamic role in American history.
Court, and, in the process, laid the legal foundations of the civil rights movement. Charles Hamilton Houston was the pioneer: After becoming the first African-American on the Harvard Law Review, he transformed the law school at allblack Howard University into a West Point for civil rights advocacy. One of Houston’s students at Howard was a brash young man named Thurgood Marshall. Soon after Marshall’s graduation, Houston and Marshall opened the NAACP’s legal office. The abstemious, proper Houston and the folksy, easygoing Marshall made an unlikely duo, but together they faced down angry Southern mobs, negotiated with presidents and senators, and convinced even racist judges and juries that the Constitution demanded equal justice under law for all American citizens. Houston, tragically, would die before his strategy came to
Root and Branch:
and unexpected move by Truman. But in reality, Truman’s historymaking order was the culmination of more than 150 years of legal, political, and moral struggle. Beginning with the Revolutionary War, African Americans had used military service to do their patriotic duty and to advance the cause of civil rights. The fight for a desegregated military was truly a long war—decades of protest and labor highlighted by bravery on the fields of France, in the skies over Germany, and in the face of deepseated racism on the military bases at home. Today, the military is one
Charles Hamilton Houston, Thurgood Marshall, and the Struggle to End Segregation by Rawn James, Jr.
T
he riveting story of the two crusading lawyers who led the legal battle to end segregation, one case and one courtroom at a time. The Supreme Court’s decision in Brown v. Board of Education is widely considered a seminal point in the battle to end segregation, but it was in fact the culmination of a decades-long legal campaign. Root and Branch is the epic story of the two fiercely dedicated lawyers who led the fight from county courthouses to the marble halls of the Supreme
fruition in the Brown suit, but Marshall would argue the case victoriously and go on to become the first African-American Supreme Court justice—always crediting his mentor for teaching him everything he knew. Together, the two advocates changed the course of American history. http://rawnjames.com
117 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Calendar June…
28th-30th BET Experience at LA LIVE This 3-day entertainment festival is being held in conjunction with the 2013 BET Awards broadcast. Get your tickets at: www.axs.com/betexperiencevip.
July…
to strengthen participants’ leadership capabilities, decision-making, conflict resolution, emotional intelligence, team leadership, and consensus-building. Register today, please email info@celdng.org.
6th-10th
coastexpo.biz.
October… 24th-26th National Black Book Festival The 6th annual National Black Book Festival (NBBF) is sponsored by
42nd Annual Conference of Rainbow/PUSH Coalition & Citizenship Education Fund Register to attend the Chicagobased conference at: www.rainbowpush.org.
September…
1st-6th Women Leadership Development Training Organized by the Centre for Economic and Leadership Develop-
ment, the four day program has been custom made as a Women’s Leadership course that empowers today’s Women to climb the leadership ladder and at the same time keep track of herself in terms of wellbeing and happiness. The workshop, being held at the Atlantis The Palm, Dubai UAE, is designed
27th-28th West Coast Expo The 2nd West Coast Expo will be held at the Los Angeles Convention Center. The expo features include a Job Fair, Junior Business Camp, Fashion Show, and six pavilions business, technology, green living, automotive, home improvement, and health and beauty. Get detailed information on exhibiting, sponsorship and registration at: www.west-
Cushcity.com, the world’s largest African-American retailer online. It will be held at Fallbrook Church, 12512 Walters Rd., in Northwest Houston, Tx. The festival attracts a wide array of authors, publishers, book clubs, libraries and individual readers from the Southwest U.S. and nationwide. Get detailed information on exhibiting, sponsorship and registration at: www.nationalblackbookfestival.com.
118 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
Resources Media Africa Interactive Multimedia Press/Content Agency in Africa www.africa-interactive.com Africa World Press Books www.africaworldpressbooks.com African Vibes Magazine www.africanvibes.com The African World www.theafricanworld.tv Africast TV www.africast.tv AllAfrica http://allafrica.com Black Wall Street Times http://bwstimes.com Black Business News Group www.blackbusinessnews.net Black Press USA www.blackpressusa.com BridesNoir www.bridesnoir.com CuisineNoir www.cuisinenoirmag.com DiasporaVoice www.blogtalkradio.com/diasporavoice Rock Me Africa //rockmeafrica.com
www.continentalacc.org Pan African Film Festival www.paff.org United African Organization http://uniteafricans.org Zambia-USA Chamber of Commerce www.zambiausachamber.org
Investment/Development Africa Reports www.africareports.com African Development Bank www.afdb.org African Export - Import Bank //afreximbank.com/afrexim/en AfrigadgetTV www.afrigadget.com The Exchange Magazine www.nse.co.ke Ventures www.ventures-africa.com
U.S. Government Commerce Department www.doc.gov International Trade Administration http://trade.gov
Organizations The African Union www.au.int/en Black Business Association www.bbala.org CauseCast www.causecast.com www.causecastfornonprofits.com Continental African Chamber of Commerce
Minority Business Development Agency www.mbda.gov Small Business Administration www.sba.gov State Department www.dos.gov White House www.whitehouse.gov
120 June 2013 Black Business News www.blackbbusinessnews.net 1-323-291-7819
U.S. Sm
Reach Thousands of the Nation’s Most Influential African Americans
all Bus
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ess Adm 2007 A inistra tion WARD W “Journ alist of INNER! the Yea r”
YOUR LINK TO AFRICAN AMERICAN BUSINESS ENTERPRISE The Black Business Association, SBA 2007 Journalist of the Year, is pleased to invite you to be an integral part of our publication. Black Business News - Your Link to African American Business Enterprise throughout the nation. The Black Business News is the ofÀcial voice through which public and private entities advertise contract opportunities available to black business enterprise. Gain access to a highly afÁuent target market via outreach and advertising opportunities. • Outreach to Black Businesses • Advertorial/Feature Story Advertising • Profiles and Business Listings • Classified Ads and Bid Opportunities
Black Business News
Our readers are BBA members, Black business owners, corporate buyers, prime contractors, community organizations and elected ofÀcials, who all turn to the Black Business News for business development news and information to take their business and project efforts to the next level of proÀtability and success!
No
In Th vember 2008 is Iss ue…
5 Co ver S tory: we g Wher o e do Barack from h er Obam USA. a, 44th e? Preside 6 Bla nt of the ck Bu sines Profi s Succ le Dicker ess 9 Fo son Employee reclo sure Benefits $8.68 R 31 Sm Billion Settleme elief nt. all Adm Business inistr Online Train ation ing for
Don’t be left out. Advertise in this door-opening publication.
Exporte
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Reserve Your Ad Space Today! Call (323) (323) 291-7819 291-9334 Deadline: Every third Friday of the Month! 50% Discount for Regular Financial BBA Members Advertising Opportunities Full Page Color w/Feature Story Full Page Color Half Page Color w/Feature Story Half Page Color Quarter Page Color Eighth Page Color Business Card Ad/Listing
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291-7819 E-mail: mail@bbala.org For more information contact: Earl “Skip” Cooper, II at (323) 323-291-9334