USA TODAY article on Black Spending
We should buy more books according to this article.

USA TODAY article on Black Spending
Next time you see that 'player of the year 'flawsin' in that 2005 Chrysler 300 sittin' on 23's while he's pulling it into a parking stall of a rented apartment hand him this article.

USA Today article on Black Spending Habits:
These are tough economic times, especially for African-Americans, for whom the unemployment rate is more than 10%. Alarmingly, rather than belt-tightening, the response has been to spend more. In many poor neighborhoods, one is likely to notice satellite dishes and expensive new cars.

According to Target Market, a company that tracks black consumer spending, blacks spends a significant amount of their income on depreciable products.

In 2002, the year the economy nose-dived; we spent $22.9 billion ($22,900,000,000.00) on clothes, $3.2 billio n ($3,000,000,000.00) on electronics and $11.6 billion ($11,000,000,000.00) on furniture to put into homes that, in many cases, were rented.

Among our favorite purchases are cars and liquor. Blacks make up only 12% of the US population, yet account for 30% of the country's Scotch consumption. Detroit , which is 80% black, is the world's No.1 market for Cognac (Pass The Co---------).

So impressed was Lincoln with the $46.7 billion ($46,000,000,000) that blacks spent on cars that the automaker commissioned Sean "P.Diddy" Combs, the entertainment and fashion mogul, to design a limited-edition Navigator replete with six plasma screens, three DVD players and a Sony Play Station 2.

The only area where blacks seem to be cutting back on spending is books; total purchases have gone from a high of $356 million in 2000 to $303 million in 2002. This shortsighted behavior, motivated by a desire for instant gratification and social accepta nce, comes at the expense of our future.

The National Urban League's "State of Black America 2004" report found that fewer than 50% of black families owned their homes compared with more than 70% of whites.

According to published reports, the Ariel Mutual Funds/Charles Schwab 2003 Black Investor Survey found that when comparing households where blacks and whites had roughly the same household incomes, whites saved nearly 20% more each month for retirement, and 30% of African-Americans earning $100,000 a year had less than $5,000 in retirement savings. While 79% of whites invest in the stock market, only 61% of African-Americans do.

Certainly, higher rates of unemployment, income disparity and credit discrimination are financial impediments to the economic vitality of blacks, but so are our consumer tastes.

By finding the courage to change our spending habits, we might be surprised at how far the $631 billion ($631,000,000 ,000.00) we now earn take us.

We all send thousands of jokes through e-mail without a second thought, but when it comes to sending messages regarding life affirming choices, people think twice about sharing.

So please pass this on. Knowledge is power.!!

TOP SELLING AUTHOR FOR THE LAST THREE MONTHS - CONGRATULATIONS

Actor Hill Harper Keynotes Teen Awareness Day

On Sunday October 8, 2006, AMAG's James Lisbon and Mark Knox of The Fort Greene Volunteers, Inc. presented a Teen Awareness Day with scholar and actor Hill Harper as the keynote speaker.

Mark Knox who has been involved with the 6 year old not-for profit organization stated "over the years I noticed that community programs were dwindling-when I was coming up we had the sea cadets, boy scouts- I felt that somebody should step up to the plate and start to give back to the community. We looked to Hill Harper because many of the youth that are in my program reading skills are not up to par, however all the kids immediately took a strong interest in his book "Letters To A Young Brother."

The Teen Awareness Day was filled with performance after performance while self esteem building motivation was the glue of the program as hostess Ms. Sheneese Nichlos took command of the 100 plus filled auditorium of primarily high school students.

As a 27 year old entrepreneur - who is a writer, designer, event planner, counselor and founder of IWIN (I as Woman Internalizing My Purpose), were all great "training" as she was able to maintain control and keep interest throughout the afternoon and into the evening.

Sheneese's ultimate goal as a motivational speaker at the Teen Awareness Day was to help the youth achieve progression realization of the Divine Black Goddess; the essence of God is within all of us. Sheneese is on a mission to change the current image of women of color and how they're seen in the world today.

Performances were presented by poet Shavelle Knox, inspirational dancer Channel Parker and vocalist Helisha (who sang The Greatest Love of All) set the stage for Special Guest Speaker Bruce George (Co- founder of Def Poetry Jam, founder and managing editor of "The Bandana Republic, An Anthology of Poetry & Prose by Gang Members & Their Affiliates- recipient of numerous awards; The Peabody Award, The Milky Award, Upscale Showcase Award and The Trail Blazer Award to name a few). George's speech was summed up by Dina Martin of Dina's Books & Crafts as "simply electrifying." "Bruce George was absolutely amazing. He held the kids interest to a degree beyond comprehension." George talked about staying away from gangs, understanding that the music video Thug is Not a Thug and that "thugs don't have time to make videos." George stated "it is not gang life it is gang death and you are in it forever-there is no maturing and thinking about starting a family, there is a price." George also opened with clips of Def Poetry Jam discussing the importance of artistic expression.

Why Hill Harper? Early this year Hill Harper was interviewed by AMAG/Awareness Magazine?s publisher James Lisbon for the cover story. James noticed that many of the youth were in need of his message would not receive because of various obstacles. After discussing Teen Awareness Day with Hill Harper, Hill agreed to speak to a select group of youth; some who are on the right track and could use additional motivation and some in dire need.

To make the day a total success, Lisbon along with Mr. Knox sought sponsorship to insure each and every child in attendance would receive Harper's book Letter's To a Young Brother.

Major sponsorship came from Mr. Tom V. Tuffey (Assistant Vice President)/Forest City Ratner Companies (Owners of The New Jersey Nets) & Danny Simmons /The Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation. Additional sponsorship came from Ms. Tonya E. aka Miss Right Now, Inc., Latonia Almeyda of MOME Publishing, Inc., author Saint Solomon, Owner of Tru-Life Publishing Karen Mitchell, Dina Martin and author Pamela Samuels-Young, Esq. whose support helped a great number of children in attendance.

Although Harper's arrival was slightly delayed because of his tapping at Radio City Music Hall which ran over schedule (celebrity Jeopardy; playing for charity) he was determined to make it. "Hill apologizes for the delay but is on the way to the school.

His publicist asked relayed a message to the students to please stick around as Mr. Hill is really is looking forward to seeing and speaking with everyone" stated his publicist Joy who was in constant contact with the program coordinator Dina Martin.

"Hill Harper is indeed a man of integrity. Speaking for over an hour and then personally chatting and taking pictures with each child. It wasn't a 'what's your name- scribble and see you later' his concern for the youth was sincere. He took the time to share a special message with each teen present at the teen awareness day. The youth enjoyed his analogies and his concentration on the importance of building a strong foundation for their dreams.

He specified the importance of dreams and hammered it home that it is okay to have more than one dream. That is what it is really about.

James Lisbon stated " Making it and coming back to help others with a sincere heart is a key to future success of our youth."

Although this is the first union between AMAG & The Fort Greene Volunteers, Inc. a December Teen Awareness Day is already in the works. James, a former resident of Brooklyn's Fort Greene Projects is looking forward to a working relationship with The Fort Greene Volunteers, Inc. because "they are serious and active within our communities." For further infomation on Teen Awareness Day log on to www.awarenessmagazine.net and contact us via email or you may direct telephone inquires to 212 -413-9554

Interview: Author, Georgia Woodbine

My book is about living a life of fulfillment and living in purpose. I discuss the importance of building your spiritual foundation and then incorporating business strategies. I tell people that struggle is the process that's taking you where you want to go. I'm promoting how you can have prosperity and peace. By Phil Andrews

Black Star News Columnist, Phil Andrews interviews Georgia Woodbine, Author of "How To Make Big Bucks Without Selling Your Soul". Sparking an inspirational phenomenon wherever she goes, bestselling author and motivational speaker, Georgia Woodbine, gives it to you straight in her powerful book. This tell-it-like-it-is book reveals the secrets to living a life of fulfillment that will show you how to tap into your spiritual power and allow God to be the director of your life.

After working in the music industry for over ten years, Ms. Woodbine was inspired to use her experiences and life-learned lessons to help others find the path to their passion and purpose. Ms. Woodbine worked as a manager for artists and producers. Some of the projects her artists and producers collaborated on were: Roc-A-Fella Records-Memphis Bleek's "Everybody;" Amil's "No One Can Compare;" Maurice Malone- BAGS' "Come One Come All;" Atlantic Records -Spence featuring Memphis Bleek; Warner Bros/Lifeline Ent-Youth Asylum's "It'll Be Alright," Produced by Quincy Jones. Ms. Woodbine has also worked for a variety of entertainment companies such as; Def Jam, PolyGram, WNYU Radio, Black Enterprise Magazine, and the Apollo Theatre.

Capitalizing on her experience with project management, publicity, promotions, and marketing, Ms. Woodbine formed a successful copywriting and marketing consulting company. G&J; Consulting Services was formed to help independent record labels, start-up companies, online publications, publishers, artists, and authors with the presentation of their product and/or service. Some clients include; ASCAP, Warner Bros. Records, HarperCollinsPublishers, WEA, Gots to Have It Marketing/Give 'n Take Network, NetworkShops, and many others...

BSN: What experiences lead you to the decision to name your book "How To Make Big Bucks Without Selling Your Soul"
Georgia: Heart wrenching and painful experiences inspired me to write this book. The title came about from working in the entertainment industry for over 10 years and watching people do all types of things to get money, fame, exposure, record deals and meetings with high level executives. I grew up in the church and I always had passion when I worked in the music industry and I knew deep down in my heart there were certain things that I was just not willing to do to become successful. I have always been driven. So, this title seemed very appropriate for what every person in the world is seeking to attain love, peace, happiness, security, prosperity and overall fulfillment of life.

BSN: What are the stages of personal, spiritual, and business development that you cover in your book that will help readers find their true destiny.
Georgia: This book was developed to help people who are searching for a greater life of purpose and seeking to change from unfulfilling careers and dead-end relationships. It bares effective strategies that you can use to find the business that is best suited for your natural abilities, skills, and talents and will open your eyes to the great things that God has in store for you. It will help readers tap into their powerful resource and provides inspirational insight on finding true success.

BSN: Did you have any entrepreneurial experiences at an early age, if so can you share your unique experiences with our readers.
Georgia: I always had the determination and drive of an entrepreneur since a very young age. I always wanted to work for myself. At 14 years old, I started a company called, Gee's Business Services which specialized in making business cards, logos, flyers, menus and invitations. I charged $35.00. When I received my first $35.00, I gained the confidence to move forward. At age 17, while in high school, I started typing report papers for high school and college students, friends, and family. When I realized the demand I started to charge a fee and people paid me with no problem.

BSN: Georgia, your background is in the music industry, what lead to your drastic decision to enter spiritual- focused publishing
Georgia: Well, to be honest it was not something I had planned. I thought chasing the music industry was going to make me successful. I had to let go of my passion for the music industry and allow God to use my passion for his works, then I pretty much stumbled upon the idea of a publishing company. I prayed consistently for purpose for my life. I was tired of going in complete circles and that's when I got the vision for the book and the company.

BSN: Georgia, how can an average person begin to make big bucks with losing their soul
Georgia: Well, basically everyone wants to know the answer right away to this question. My response is always the million dollar question should be what's stopping you from making big bucks without selling your soul and the answer to that question is always right in front of us, but we as individuals have to make a choice to do things differently if we want to see different results.

BSN: You have a multitude of talents, can you tell a little bit about some of the other projects you are involved in at this time
Georgia: I am currently speaking to high school kids and college students. I am working with some wardens right now to get this book into the prisons and also speak to prisoners about finding true success. I have also donated books to charities and I'm working with women shelters to offer a free seminar.

BSN: What was your initial goal in publishing "How To Make Big Bucks Without Selling Your Soul"
Georgia: My goal is to be that person that makes a difference in the lives of millions that are searching for a better way of life. I went through so many painful experiences and stumbling blocks where I wanted to give up before I got to the place of living a life of fulfillment. I want to share my story with millions, how I struggled as a single mother confused trying to find my way and was able to make through with flying colors once I learned how to depend on my source -- God.

BSN: How successful have you been in reaching the goal you set out to accomplish in publishing your national best selling book
Georgia: With faith and favor, I am able to do what I love, love what I do and get paid for it. I had to step out on faith. I used to work for a pharmaceutical company making close to $80,000 a year. Now, I make in one hour what I used to make in one week. It's truly a blessing when you believe the vision that God has given you and then step out with confidence and allow him to do the things in your life that he promised.

BSN: Georgia, you have another company by the name of G & J Consulting, what does G & J consulting provide for potential clients seeking to use your services
Georgia: G&J; Consulting Services is a professional copywriting and marketing consulting company, that develops promotional, marketing, and advertising campaigns to maximize exposure and increase visibility for our clients business and/or products.

BSN: Georgia, what are the secrets to living a life of fulfillment
Georgia: The secret to living a life of fulfillment is being able to live in purpose. Once you can connect the dots of your passion, talents, skills and natural abilities for the greater good, that will give you the greatest joy that you could ever imagine. In Romans 8:28 it says, And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him who have been called according to his purpose

BSN: Georgia, what costly mistakes have you made that you share with those eager to learn from your most valuable life lessons
Georgia: To let go and let God. We always want to be in control of everything that happens. The truth is, there are many things that we do not have control over, especially people. Once we understand the divine order that is set for our lives, we can focus on the things of importance and use that energy in a positive way.

BSN: Georgia, you are wise beyond your years, what process helped to gain so much knowledge in so short number of years
Georgia: I call it spiritual wisdom. I know that all the knowledge, wisdom and understanding I have comes from God. Once I began to seek out and get closer to God that's when I started to get mind blowing ideas, visions and revelations.

BSN: Georgia, I believe you have a unique gift from God which helps people find their calling in life. What are some of the keys to a person finding their unique calling in life
Georgia: What I'm doing is not just talking about how to make money. My book is about living a life of fulfillment and living in purpose. I discuss the importance of building your spiritual foundation and then incorporating business strategies. I tell people that struggle is the process that's taking you where you want to go. I'm promoting how you can have prosperity and peace. I believe the only way to find your calling is to find your motive to what's driving your passion. Once you can understand what you want out of life, then you can make necessary adjustments to change your life.

BSN: Georgia, you have a tremendous calling on your life, did you have any mentors along the way, if so, please tell us a little about the mentors who have shaped your life
Georgia: I have many mentors including Earl Graves, publisher of Black Enterprise Magazine, I worked as his personal assistant. Andrew Morrison, successful business coach and many others along the way that that brought both positive and negative energy to my life throughout the years which contributed to my development, growth, and change.

BSN: Georgia, what are your short term and long term goals for the future
Georgia: You can expect great things. I always pray and affirm - focus and purpose for my life to empower, encourage and motivate millions worldwide. Spiritual Focus Publishing has more books, CD's, DVD's as well as a variety of motivational products on the way.

BSN: Georgia, where can they purchase a copy and do you currently have a web site?
Georgia: How To Make Big Bucks Without Selling Your Soul is available at my website www.spiritualfocuspublishing.com , by phone at 888-340-3409 and at Barnes & Noble bookstore.

BSN: Georgia, how can Non-for- Profits, Community, Organizations, Churches, Fraternities, Chambers of Commerce, Civic Groups, and Colleges and Universities contact you to request you to speak to their organization
Georgia: I can be reached at 888-340-3409 or email me at [email protected]

Phil Andrews is a Business Columnist for Black Star News and host of The Power Networking Series located at www.powernetworkingseries.com. The Power Networking Series is a referral-based business network online and offline which offers membership and presents monthly Power Networking Series Business Card Exchanges in the NYC metropolitan area.

To subscribe to or advertise in New York's leading Pan African weekly investigative newspaper, please call (212) 481-7745 or send a note to [email protected] Speaking Truth To Empower.

Highlights

On Friday night, Nov 3, acclaimed artist and author Joel Gresham will be here signing his two books ("Our bearable World" - perfect gift for the little ones!) and "How to Whet your Appetite" - Something for the mature crowd!) . A perfect event for mom and/or the kids!

On Saturday, Nov 4, new writer Ms. Latasha Hines, will sign and discuss "I Love Him Lord But He's Not a Christian!" This book is destined to be a bestseller. Everyone knows someone who can benefit from this material. Chapter 4 is entitled "How can he love you as Christ loves the church if he does not know how Christ loves the church? This book is a must read! ($12.00)

Spoken Word! Live Poetry! Whatever you call it - It's Better at the The Lounge! Nov 10th is when it happens again!

Book Club Info / Save money on all Purchases!
There is still space in our book clubs (membership is limited to 15 persons each group. Cost is $12 for 1 / $20 for both. Members receive 12% discount on all purchases). We would love to have you join.

You Read It Here First
What do Donna Hill, Lolita Files, Francis Ray, Keith Lee Johnson & Miami have in common?...Open the attachment to find out! It's an event that you do not want to miss! ((Dec 2, 2006))

Candace Dow is confirmed!!!
The author of Ain't No Sunshine & Caught in the Mix will be discussing & signing books at The Book Lovers Lounge on Dec 9.

Receive her bookmarks free with purchase! (until supplies last!)

Miami Book Fair!!!
It's Back! Look for the Book Lovers Lounge. Specials on your favorite authors including Omar Tyree & Lolita Files! Nov 17-19. The store may have special hours during this time. Check our website () for any changes to our posted hours and access to special prices. Thanks.

Hot & In Stock!!!
Tavis Smiley - What I know for Sure! T. D Jakes - Not Easily Broken. Barack Obama - The Audacity of Hope.

The Book Lovers Lounge

Blackprofessionalevents.com launch portal information hub and one stop shop for events nationwide

Contact: Brenda J. Wyche
Winning Strategies & Associates
www.winningbeginnings.com
(646) 642-5814

New York, NY , Black Professional Events is a real time event portal where Event Planners , Promoters and all Organizations in need of event resources can post and access event information. The goal is for Blackprofessionalevents.com to become the information hub and one stop shop for events nationwide. Blackprofessionalevents.com is useful for Meetings, Seminars, Conferences, Trade Shows, Incentive Events, Networking, Conventions, Corporate Events and more. Meeting Professionals, Event Planners, Associations, Non-Profit Organizations, Affinity Groups, Corporations and Networking Groups all benefit from Blackprofessionalsevents.com

Additionally, Blackprofessionalevents.com offers a forum by which Black Professionals can share resources and build quality friendships while building businesses.

Blackprofessionalevents.com, is also a vital tool for building quality business relationships and membership that can result in lucrative rewards. Advantages of being a member of the group include Member Forums where members can network, share advice, information, experiences, support and strategies, Event Calendars where members can keep abreast of productive and rewarding events, User Blogs for members' individual use, an Employment Center which lists employment opportunities throughout the U.S., News Reports, and much more.

In a recent Black Star News interview, George C. Fraser, internationally acclaimed author of the bestselling book, Success Runs in Our Race, The Complete Guide to Effective Networking in the African American Community stated, . We must fully internalize the meaning of collectiveness and move away from the ideas of rugged individualism. Once we see that our strength is manifested when the dots are connected, and not when the individual is doing his or her own thing, that is when we will realize our true potential.

Blackprofessionalevents.com, is becoming a powerful force in the world of Black business. Its easy accessibility and professional layout makes it easy for members to connect throughout the United States at members' convenience. The friendly atmosphere of Blackprofessionals.com also makes it easy for members to meet colleagues in order to develop mutually beneficial strategic alliances. Membership is free.

For more information, visit the website at www.Blackprofessionalevents.com: the calendar of events, related business links, corporate tips, strategies and articles written by professionals, visit the website at www.Blackprofessionalevents.com.com.