Is It The Holiday Season Already???

Most companies try to show their appreciation for their employees’ hard work by rewarding them with a holiday party. But they aren’t only social gatherings, they are to be taken seriously because no matter what you think, you are always being watched by someone.

Holiday Party Do’s and Don’ts…


1. Don’t get intoxicated.
Most holiday parties have an open bar, which you may be tempted to take advantage of. No one’s saying that you and your guest (s) shouldn’t have a good time, but moderation is the key. In the same manner, don’t eat too much at the buffet. Either way, getting drunk or looking like a pig does not make a good impression at all. You can always eat and drink more after the party.


2. Don’t pull the nightclub attire from your closet for the event.
Do ask whether the attire is formal or casual. The party is still a business function, so conservative party clothes are always a good choice. Keep your reputation for good taste intact.


3. Do take the time to network with people at the party who can influence your career.
Take the time to talk with people who you may not see regularly, such as top management, people from other departments, and employees from other locations. A holiday party is a great event to begin building or strengthening business relationships, so do introduce yourself and build your network.


4. Do keep all conversations positive and upbeat.
Don’t spend the evening complaining, bragging, correcting, whining, or ridiculing. Avoid using the office party as an excuse to blow off steam. You also want to stay away from controversial subjects, such as religion, politics, and making off-color jokes. It’s still a company function, and you have to remain professional at all times.

We all know that with this bad economy there are a lot of businesses hurting and going under. Here is a list of stores that are closing around the country—check your local shopping districts and malls to see if any of these are closing in your area:

Circuit City (filed Chapter 11)

Ann Taylor 117 stores nationwide closing

Lane Bryant, Fashion Bug ,and Catherine's to close 150 stores nationwide

Eddie Bauer to close stores 27 stores and more after January

Cache will close all stores Talbot’s closing down specialty stores
J. Jill closing all stores (owned by Talbots)
Pacific Sunwear (also owned by Talbots)

GAP closing 85 stores

Foot Locker closing 140 stores, more to close after January

Wickes Furniture closing down

Levitz closing down remaining stores

Bombay closing remaining stores

Zale’s closing down 82 stores and 105 after January

Whitehall closing all stores

Piercing Pagoda closing all stores

Disney closing 98 stores and will close more after January

Home Depot closing 15 stores 1 in NJ ( New Brunswick )

Macys to close 9 stores after January

Linens and Things closing all stores

Movie Gallery Closing all stores

Pep Boys Closing 33 stores

Sprint/Nextel closing 133 stores

JC Penney closing a number of stores after January

Ethan Allen closing down 12 stores

Wilson Leather closing down all stores

Sharper Image closing down all stores

K B Toys closing 356 stores

Lowe's to close down some stores

Dillard's to close some stores

IT’S PARTY TIME QC!!!

P.S. Preferred Spots

Monday, December 8
Marketing Mondays @ Rustic Martini, 616 N. Tryon St., doors open at 7:00, free to the public, Featuring guest presenters and organizations.

Tuesday, December 9
A Peace of Jazz @ KISS, 204 W. Woodlawn Rd., doors open at 7:00, cost is $10 all night, hosted by Jaye Delai of V101.9

Wednesday, December 10
Individual Poetry Slam @ Blumenthal Performing Arts Center’s Spirit Square, this event lasts Dec. 10-13, call 704-372-1000 for more details, tickets begin at $10.00

Thursday, December 11
Cufflinks and Cocktails: Code Red @ Chima, 139 S. Tryon St., doors open at 6:00, cost is complimentary, Come show support for HIV/AIDS awareness.

Friday, December 12
Celebrity Friday hosted by Allen Iverson and Kardinal Offishall, NV Nightclub, 20924 Torrence Chapel Rd., All Sagittarius get in FREE until 11:30, ladies free until 10:30, cost varies after 11

Saturday, December 13
EPMD performing live @ ALIVE in NODA, 2909 N. Davidson Street, tickets $10 in advance, $15 at the door

P.S. Preferred Partners

Getting married? Got a bachelorette or bachelor party to plan? Or do you and the
girls just want to get away for a relaxing spa day? Look no further, we have the
perfect solution for you! This week’s featured sponsor is Posh Socialites, a fantastic
event planning firm who will take care of all the details so you can relax and be fabulous! Please visit http://www.poshsocialites.vpweb.com/ for further details.

TGIF...long distance relationships, Promoters, Parties and more

How do you keep a long-distance relationship going? So many of us choose to be involved with someone who lives out of state, but how many of us are really willing to make all of the sacrifices that are needed to make and keep the relationship healthy. Certainly not with those “slip-up”, when you “accidently” make your way into someone else’s bed because yours seems too lonely! You have to have communication, trust, a willingness to commit, and a lot of patience. Here are 5 secrets to having (and keeping) a long distance relationship on the right track, at least until you are together for good!

1- Be clear about expectations up front
Don't wing it; plan ahead. According to Dr. Greg Guldner, director of the Center for the Study of Long-Distance Relationships and author of Long Distance Relationships: The Complete Guide, the difference between LDR couples who make it and ones who don't can be summed up in two words: ground rules. Dr. Guldner explains that nearly 70% of LDR couples who didn't anticipate changes -- or talk through their game plan for dealing with them -- broke up within six months. The most important point, of course, is, are we monogamous?

2- Express yourself
Even couples sharing the same zip code frequently have trouble telling each other how they feel. So imagine how much harder it is for lovers who can't use the power of touch to stay connected. Dr. Gary Chapman, author of The Five Love Languages for Singles, says, "It's important to figure out how to make your long-distance partner feel cherished. This can be done with words. For example, 'If I were with you, I'd give you a big kiss.'" The relationship expert adds, "Share the day-to-day events going on in each other's lives. This is all geared to staying so close that when you do get together you won't have that awkward transition period where you feel like strangers."

3- Enjoy your independence
Until their wedding in 1999, Casey and Rob Amberg lived in different states; she lived in Arkansas, while he was in Missouri (where they now live together with their 2-year-old daughter). Casey, 29, says their relationship thrived despite the distance, partly because they retained their independence. "Being apart was hard, but it enabled us to continue growing as individuals while still remaining a couple. It was almost an empowering feeling to go out with friends and still feel committed in a relationship."

4- Spice up the long-distance lovin'
Sure, sex is best when you're in the same room, and the happiest LDR couples strive to be together as often as possible. However, there are ways to keep the fires flaming from a distance. Creativity is key. That's why Rob Frankel created www.pillowmail.com, a site where you can instantly compose and e-mail each other erotic fantasies customized with your own dirty details.

5- Keep the faith
Yes, it's rough being apart, but harping on the negative can take a toll on the relationship. Dating coach Masini suggests, "Instead of moaning that you never see each other, talk about the interesting things you've been doing and ask what he's up to." This will help in two ways: He won't think you're obsessed with the relationship, and you won't be obsessed. The happier you act with your life, the happier you'll actually feel.


Shout out to Duncan Hines, who put on a fabulous fashion show and All Black Party at Stir Nightclub on Saturday November 8, we were so honored to be his personal guests! View his personal collection at http://www.carolinapromotor.com/! http://www.stirnc.com/


Be Seen or Be Forgotten

We know how you love to see pictures of yourself online and we do too! Now we have a feature every week on the hottest pictures that we take while we are out being the fashionistas that we are…so DON’T ever get caught out there looking a mess…because we will put you on blast!!

CALLING ALL PROMOTERS!

Don’t you want your party pics to be featured on our blog!!! And let us Blog your event right here? Email us at professionalswagga.com for more information.

If wedding bells are in the air call our sponsers POSH SOCIALITES to bring the creativity as well as staying in your budget. Email us today for quotes.


P.S. Preferred Spots

Friday, November 21, 2008
Fashion Friday at KISS Lounge, 204 W. Woodlawn Road, $10 before 10 pm, cost varies after

Saturday, November 22, 2008
Blue Goose presents Venetian Suites: The Lock and Key Party, Mimosa Grill, 327 S. Tryon Street, $10 in advance, $25 VIP.

ENTER AND WIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Email us to enter to win $50 Vickis gift card..........Deadline is Turkey day!!!!!!!!!

MY PRESIDENT IS BLACK

I am so overjoyed and overcome with emotion to be able to say that Barack Obama is the new president of the United States. Tuesday night and beyond have been some of the most exciting and introspective days of my life. I am so proud to be an American, and I am not ashamed to say that I haven’t always been. This could be a turning point in American history, but should not become a symbol of atonement for past sins against Black people. All of us, black and white, share the legacy of slavery, but in the same vein, most of us do not and cannot know what it was like. We have never lived in that era. But the people who are most gratified at this time are people like Jesse Jackson, Douglas Wilder, and Anne Nixon Cooper, the 106 year-old woman who voted for Obama, and thought she would never see this in her lifetime. Think of all of the civil rights leaders who gave their lives just so we could see this day. Think of all of the times that you were growing up and even though your parents told you that you could do anything, you still secretly expressed reservations. Take time to think about how we need to celebrate, but we also need to put change to work. We got him elected, now let’s show we can be the best America if we try, just as we have demonstrated these past months by campaigning and voting for President-elect and the new Commander-in-Chief, Barack Obama.

CELEBRATE CHANGE AND YOUR NEW PRESIDENT!! ALL WHILE POPPING BOTTLES WITH MODELS!!

There is no other black party that compares! If you missed last year @ THE BLAKE HOTEL which brought over 1,000 patrons, you definitely do not want to miss it this year. The UFW Charlotte Urban Fashion Week will make their Second Annual All Black Affair in the Queen City Saturday, Nov 8th at Stir. The top urban models and designers will be coming from all around the Carolinas and other UFW models coming from around the US. The Girls Club comprised of D. Woods of Danity Kane, Mika Means and Shanell aka SNL. Together they are a movement and are bringing way more than just a female perspective to the music industry. Listen to Power 98 for details!

This venue will acquire the most upscale & sexiest mature crowd surrounding the Carolinas so dress with your best fashionable Black attire, all Black preferred, but not mandatory!
All NC & SC Models and Designers please contact: Billy Bad Axx 404.391.6895 for more information about fashion show event, also selected models will get the opportunity to travel to Paris for THE UFW IN PARIS Event scheduled Jan 28 - Feb 1st, 2009. Selected models pictures will be on the flyer from the casting. Listen to Power 98 for details!

Limited Advance tickets & discounted tickets now @ http://www.ez-tixx.com/

THIS IS A P.S. PREFERRED SPOT FOR SATURDAY, AND YOU DO NOT WANT TO HEAR ABOUT IT, SO BE THERE!!!!!

C.H.A.N.G.E...Ya'll know what that means!!!

This past Sunday, Democratic Presidential nominee Barack Obama was in Charlotte for a political rally. If you’ve never attended any kind of rally, this was certainly something you really needed to see. There were so many people of all races, being kind to each other, waiting in the hot sun, just to see and hear this candidate of ‘change’. He did not disappoint most of the estimated crowd of 20,000. I was so enthralled by all of the young people who were so energetic about being in that arena and witnessing a part of history. This was not the first time Obama has come to Charlotte, but this was the first time I’ve gone and heard him speak and I was more impressed than I have ever been from watching him on T.V. He joked with the crowd while remaining steadfast in his efforts to bring economic relief, affordable health care, and better paying jobs to this region and this country as a whole. His momentum keeps growing…just remember to VOTE and get registered if you aren’t already. Make a commitment to getting at least one other person registered. The deadline to register is on October 10, that’s only 2 and ½ weeks from now…so keep it moving!

The first presidential debate comes on this Friday, September 26 at 9:00. Don’t miss this chance to see the candidates in action talking about the issues that matter to us in this election. Amid all of the controversy with John McCain trying to postpone the debate, as of now, it's still scheduled. This may be a lot of people’s first perceptions of the candidates after the conventions. There will be a total of 3 debates before the election, the second one is on October 7 and the third one will be on October 15.

P.S. Preferred Spot...

Come join the beautiful ladies of Professional Swagga at an exclusive event this Friday night, September 26 at Whiskey River and Suite inside the new EpiCentre in the heart of Uptown Charlotte! The first 15 people to email us at professionalswagga@gmail.com with "party" in the subject line will receive free VIP passes to both events...so don't be left out!!!

We bring the events so you can party!!!!!!!!!

Budget up!!!

BASIC RULES OF BUDGET KEEPING
If your expenses exceed those shown on this card, then your are probably in trouble financially.
- A budget is a guide for your spending
- A budget lets you control your money instead of Vice-versa
- A budget lets you know if you are living within your means
- A good budget allows you to save for the future
- A good budget frees up money for extras
- A budget allows you to focus on your goals
- A budget allows you to prepare for emergencies
- A good budget often leads to a good marriage and vice versa
- A budget will reveal areas where you are over spending
- A good budget keeps you out of debt
- A budget creates extra money by good management practices
- A budget lets you sleep without worries over bills

BASIC MONTHLY MONEY RULES
- Take your Yearly Take Home Pay after taxes and divide by 12 (You now have your monthly take home amount)
- Now-Break down your expenses by percentage of monthly pay:

1. Your rent should be less than 30% of your monthly take home pay
2. Your car payment should be less than 12% of your monthly take home
3. Monthly Utilities (lights, gas, water, telephone) should be less than 12%
4. Monthly food should be less than 16% of your take home pay
5. Credit Cards should be less than 10% of your take home pay
6. Savings should be 10% per month
7. All other expenses should be less than 10% (total %=100)

Your credit score is one of the most important factors in your financial life. The current recession makes it even harder for consumers to get approved for a loan or line of credit which is why it is so crucial to have good credit.
If you have good credit and can afford to make purchases during this time you can get some great deals. However, if you are already in debt, don’t have an emergency fund, savings account or retirement account you need to reevaluate your spending habits. While you are working on improving your spending habits you can also follow these 5 tips to boost your credit score so when the time is right you can make a purchase and get the best deal possible.
1. Change your mindset. You have to change the way your currently spend money and develop good spending habits so you make good choices when making purchases, buy in terms of needs vs. wants.
2. Get current on late bills. Pay old or late accounts immediately. Setup payment plans for bills that cannot be paid in full.
3. Establish credit. Open a secured account if you have bad credit or no credit to re-establish credit history. Use non-traditional forms of credit to establish history such as Pay Rent Buy Credit (Payment Reporting Builds Credit), www.pbrc.com.
4. Keep balances low. Keep your credit card balances at 50% or below the credit limit. This shows you have good spending habits are not seen as a credit risk.
5. Don’t open new accounts. Don’t open any new accounts more than once every year when trying to improve your credit history. You will be seen as a credit risk and this will lower your credit score.

Congratulations to the Carolina Panthers for a great win on Sunday! We faced a real challenge going up against one of the best teams in the AFC, the San Diego Chargers. Quarterback Jake Delhomme, back from elbow surgery, went 23 for 41 with 247 yards passing. The most exciting play of the game was the last play, which was the game winning play. Dante Rosario caught a touchdown in the back of the end zone with no time left on the clock, and this was Jake's 14th game winning drive. Our next game is at home this Sunday @ 1:00 against the Chicago Bears, tailgating is strongly encouraged!!

PS PREFERRED LIST

Come out all entrepreneurs and friends who support us to join us at Café Siena inside of the Holiday Inn Center City (5th Street) for our Afterwork Network and Flirt on Friday, September 12! This is FREE FREE FREE to the public Come out, bring plenty of business cards, and be prepared to meet a diverse group of people who want to network just like you…and as always, you never know who you might meet!

FRIDAY’S DRINK SPECIALIN CAFFE SIENA$6 Margaritas$6 Infused Martinis$3 Coronas

CALLING ALL VIRGOS BECAUSE YOURS TRULY IS ONE. MEET ME ON THE YACHT!!!!

For more information call Coretta at 704-492-0069.

P.S. We bring the event so you can party!!!!!!!!!!!!

Part 2: Reflect and Elect!!!

So the political season continues…the Republican National Convention began this week, without the A-list star power that the Democrats had, but it has certainly not been without it’s share of fireworks. As you probably (should) know, John McCain has picked Sarah Palin as his Vice Presidential running mate. Mrs. Palin has not been without her share of scandal, even in rural Alaska. She has been praised for uncovering corruption within the Republican party within her state, but she has also been criticized for allegedly getting her brother-in-law fired for a domestic dispute with her sister. It has also been uncovered that her 17-year old daughter is now 5 months pregnant, and that the McCain camp did in fact know about it. Whatever the case, the Obama campaign has stated they will not attack Palin’s family, but what about the Republican’s sense of values? There have already been not-so-thinly veiled attacks against Michelle Obama this week, especially by Rudy Guiliani and Ross Huckabee, two Presidential wannabes who nobody wanted to see receive the nomination. Also, has anyone who has been watching this seen how they have continued to attack Obama’s record, but have not said much about the issues and how WE could possibly benefit from Republican leadership for yet another 4 years…somebody email me and tell me why anyone in their right mind would vote for one of the oldest candidates in history…and don’t worry, I won’t try to have a mini-debate with you over the email!

Hurricanes Gustav, Hannah, and Ike are continuing to pound the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, the Midwest, and now, the Southeast coast. We are all checking out these storms for their severity and damage. We all remember Katrina and the devastation it caused. For your safety, please heed all warnings to get to higher ground and stock up on food and water if you can’t leave your homes. Our prayers are with the families of those who did not make it through these storms, and please plan accordingly if you are traveling to these areas.

Don’t miss the VMA’s this Sunday night on MTV…

We would like to formally invite all of the entrepreneurs who read our blog to join us at Café Siena inside of the Holiday Inn Center City (5th Street) for our Afterwork Network and Flirt on Friday, September 12! Come out, bring plenty of business cards, and be prepared to meet a diverse group of people who want to network just like you…and as always, you never know who you might meet!

FRIDAY’S DRINK SPECIAL
IN CAFFE SIENA
$6 Margaritas
$6 Infused Martinis
$3 Coronas

Enjoy tapas menu during our early bird hours Monday through Friday 3-7 PM. All tapas are 50% off during these hours.
Daily Lunch Specials Include:
Monday-Pasta Station
Tuesday-International Buffet
Wednesday-Mexican Buffet
Thursday-Italian Buffet
Friday-Seafood
($9.95, Includes a Beverage)

P.S…We bring the events so you can bring the party!!!!

Reflect and Elect!!!

The Democratic National Convention kicked off this week in Denver. Keynote speakers so far have included Michelle Obama, Governor Bill Richardson of New Mexico, Hillary and Bill Clinton, and Vice Presidential Nominee Joe Biden. This convention is paramount to the Democratics’ success to get Barack Obama elected to the White House. So far, we have heard several feeble attacks on John McCain and the Republicans, but are we going to hear more substance? Well I know he tore the house DOWN on Thursday night!! Just his presence was so moving to 90,000 people who packed Invesco Stadium that it took almost a full 5 minutes before he could even start speaking. I now believe he has what it takes to attack the Republicans as forcefully as needed in order to win this election. I have always been an Obama supporter from day one, but I did wonder if he would ever really get that he had to reach everyone with more than abstract ideas and theories of how he would make this country better…well, he certainly spent his speech-writing time well, because he stated every intention he had for America if elected President. I know that I will be at the polls in November! I was also especially moved by his cute daughters joining his wife on stage Monday night, and his surprise appearance Wednesday night was a plus also.

Entertainment Blast

Jo Jo performing in Sydney and passes out on stage and nobody cares. http://www.livesteez.com/videos/watch/xsctPQz

Nelly said if I can't beat them (with Vokal) join them! He is looking good in that Sean John!!!

Dr. Dre's 20-Year-Old Son Found Dead

Young's mother told police that she attempted to rouse her son at 10:24 a.m. on Saturday, and when she couldn't, she called paramedics. They pronounced him dead at the scene. Young "had been out with friends" the previous night. An autopsy was performed Monday. No foul play is expected. Dr. Dre has four other children: sons Curtis, 26, Marcel, 17, and Truth, 11, and daughter Truly, 7.

Singer Ne-yo Announces He Is Gay. Essence Magazine newly famed singer/songwriter has came out of the closet and announced that he is gay. The multi-platinum recording artist sat down with Essence Magazine last week and announced the shocking news stating, "Yes, I am gay, and I have always been." After several internet rumors have been circulating around the internet. He also said, "You now this world we live in is full of judgement, resulting in one of the reasons why it took me so long to come out of the closet." Earlier this month, a man by the name of Derrick Johnson claimed that he had an intimate relationship with the singer during there teen years in high school. He also said that for months the singer and Def Jam has been trying to pay him to keep quiet over the ordeal. Worrying that it would destroy his image. Ne-yo responds saying, that the relationship did occur and he is no longer ashamed of saying that he was deeply in love. Reciting "That situation was what inspired me to write the song Unfaithful. But no one knew it was actually about myself, and our relationship." He told Essence that he doesn't care anymore, he was tired of living a lie and is ready to come clean. Quoting, "the music industry can either except me for who I am, or desert me."

PS PREFERRED SPOTS

FRIDAY
NFL Celebrity VIP Kickoff Party @ Prevue

SATURDAY
The Yellow & White Penthouse Affair @ Private Penthouse

SUNDAY

Dear Summer @ Zink Americana Restaurant

End of Summer @ HOM

P. S. WE THROW THE EVENTS SO YOU CAN BRING THE PARTY!!!!!!!!

Men lets keep it tight!

Did you know...
-that 1 in 29 Black men in the United States die as a result of homicide?
-that the death rate from Cancer among Black males is twice that of white males?
-that the death rate for Black men as a whole is higher than any other major group in the population?
-that the young Black male is the most frequent victim of violent crime?
-that the average Black man barely lives long enough to collect his social security?

Your doctor will recommend that you have a physical examination and certain screening tests periodically, depending on your age and health history. The following are the most common tests recommended for men.

In your 20s:
• You should have two physical exams in your 20s. During the first exam, ask to have your cholesterol checked. Other blood tests are not needed in healthy people.
• Go to the dentist every year for an exam and cleaning
• If you have vision problems, have an eye exam every two years
• Have your blood pressure checked every year
• Men should perform a monthly self-exam to check for testicular cancer, the most common cause of cancer in males between the ages of 15 and 34
• You should have a tetanus-diphtheria booster every 10 years.

In your 30s to 40s:
• Continue yearly visits to the dentist for cleaning
• Whether you’ve had vision problems or not, you should begin eye exams every two years. After the age of 45, start testing for glaucoma
• Continue keeping track of your blood pressure every year
• If your cholesterol remains normal, check it every five years
• Have a physical exam every one to five years
• Men should perform monthly testicular self-exams and women should perform monthly breast self-exams
• Around age 45, everyone should be screened for diabetes every three years, or earlier if you are at high risk.
• You should have a tetanus-diphtheria booster every 10 years.

In your 50s:
• Continue yearly dental and blood pressure checkups as well as vision testing every two years
• If you cholesterol remains normal, check it every five years
• Have a physical exam every one to five years
• After age 50 men should have a yearly rectal exam to check for colorectal cancer and prostate cancer
• Have a stool guaiac test done every year and flexible sigmoidoscopy every three to five years to check for colorectal cancer. Periodic colonoscopies may be needed for those at high risk for colon cancer.
• You should receive a flu vaccine every year after the age of 50
• You should have a tetanus-diphtheria booster every 10 years

• Men should perform a monthly testicular self-exam and women a monthly breast self-exam
• Continue to be screened for diabetes every three years

For 60s and above:
• Continue yearly dental and blood pressure checkups as well as vision testing every two years
• Have your hearing tested every year
• Check your cholesterol every three to five years, if it’s normal
• Begin yearly physical exams
• To check for cancer, every three to five years, everyone should have a sigmoidoscopy exam or every 10 years a colonoscopy
• Men should have a yearly rectal exam to check for colorectal cancer and prostate cancer
• Men should perform a monthly testicular self-exam
• Get a flu shot every year
• After 65, get a pneumonia vaccine (good for 5 to 10 years).
• Get a tetanus diphtheria booster every 10 years
• Continue to be screened for diabetes every three years.

Shiloh Church of God in Christ

Come out to family and friends this SUNDAY @ 3pm

Want to hear the word without the show!!!

Don't get me wrong you can praise the lord but you will get a word that you can use throughout the week.

This Sunday the 24th join us!!!!

Come as you are Dress code.

Temporary meeting location:

1204 Commercial Avenue
Charlotte NC 28206

For more information go to http://www.go2shiloh.com/

PS PREFERRED EVENTS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

P. S. We bring the events so you can party!!!!!!!!!!!!

TIME TO GET READY FOR SCHOOL!!!

Time to Get Ready….


As we all know, it’s almost time to go back to school for the kids, big and little! We hope you had a chance to take advantage of the tax free weekend that just passed, and we also want you to take into consideration some tips that we have for you in order to ease that transition period. It takes a lot to go from sleeping late into the morning, having lazy afternoons and late TV-watching nights all the way to having basically a non-stop day from beginning to end. Read below for some ways to make this period an easier one this year…but remember, summer’s not over yet!! You still have time to enjoy the last few no-hassle weeks, so make the best of it!

1. Create Calendar Central.
Each school year floats on a sea of schedules. School functions. Lunch menus. Scout meetings and music lessons. What do you do when you're drowning in paper?
Printable Calendar
Nothing calms school year chaos like Calendar Central: a centralized site for all family calendars and schedules. You'll need a family event calendar to track after-school activities, school programs and volunteer work. Add specialized calendars and schedules, and you have it: a one-stop shop for family time management.
Form is less important than function. A paper calendar with large squares lets you enter information easily. Pre-printed white board calendars are easy to revise when necessary. Color-coding entries by family member helps keep busy lives straight. Planner users dedicate a planner section to serve as Calendar Central, while tech-savvy cybergrrrlz store the info in a personal digital assistant like Palm Pilot. Choose a calendar format that works for your family.
2. Ease the family into a school year schedule.
The first day of school is no time for a drastic adjustment of household sleep schedules. Instead, ease children back into a school year routine gradually.
During the last two weeks of summer, re-introduce a school year bedtime. Begin waking late sleepers earlier and earlier, closer to the hour they'll need to rise when school begins.
Don't neglect mealtimes! Younger children, in particular, need to adapt to new meal routines before the school day demands it of them. Plan meals and snacks to accustom little ones to rituals of the school day before the school year begins.
3. Gather your papers
School entry may require documentation from immunization records to report cards from the previous school year.
A little preparation can prevent frantic last-minute searches. Call your child's school before registration day to find out what paperwork will be required--then find it! You won't be sorry come registration day.
4. Spiff up household systems
A new school year quickens the tempo of family life. Sports activities, music lessons, church programs and volunteer commitments tap parental time and put new mileage on the mini-van.
Get organized! Spiff up your household systems to meet autumn's faster pace"
Take a stab at speed cleaning and whip through household chores in record time.
Cut time in the kitchen: create a menu plan and never again wonder "What's for dinner?"
Try a session of freezer cooking and stock the freezer with prepared meals for stress-free dinners on sports nights.

Thought of the day by Bishop T.D. Jakes….
A hater is someone that is jealous and envious and spends all their time trying to make you look small so they can look tall. They are very negative people. Nothing is ever good enough! When you make your mark, you will always attract some haters... That's why you have to be careful who you share your blessings and your dreams with because some folk can't handle seeing you blessed... It's dangerous to be like somebody else... If God wanted you to be like somebody else. He would have given you what He gave them. You don't know what people have gone through to get what they have... The problem I have with haters is that they see my glory, but they don't know my story... If the grass looks greener on the other side of the fence, you can rest assured that the water bill is higher there too. We've all got some haters among us.
Some people don't like it that you can: 1. Have a relationship with God 2. Light up a room when you walk in 3. Start your own business
You can handle your haters by: 1. Knowing who you are and who your true friends are (VERY IMPORTANT!!) 2. Having a purpose to your life 3. By remembering what you have is by divine prerogative and not human manipulation.
Purpose does not mean having a job. You can have a job and still be unfulfilled. A purpose is having a clear sense of what God has called you to be. Your purpose is not defined by what others think about you. Fulfill your dreams! You only have one life to live................when its your time to leave this earth, you want to be able to say,* I've lived my life and fulfilled my dreams, .........I'm ready to go HOME!
And on that note, don’t ever let anyone change your goals and dreams!

GET DOWN TO BUSINESS!!!!

Make a schedule and stick to it. Consistency is the key to success.
Most of us have full-time jobs in addition to our other business ventures. Always dedicate at least 2-3 hours a day to fulfilling your commitment to yourself. You are the only one who will secure your future.

Don’t be afraid or too proud to ask for advice. People often think that someone else who is already successful in their chosen arena is too busy or unwilling to talk. That’s not always the case. Pick as many brains as you can, just filter out what you can use and apply it.

If you have a significant other, have them help you come up with new ideas. They may overhear you talking and have positive ways to help that you hadn’t thought of, plus they bring a fresh perspective. You’d be surprised how many great ideas are thought of in the bedroom. J

Don’t let anyone discourage you from following your vision. You (and your partners) are the only ones who can clearly see where you want your business to go. Negativity breeds doubt. Stay confident!

Allow room for change. If your original idea doesn’t work, develop more and more so that you can try to always be prepared. Often you have to make last minute decisions that you have minimal time to think about. If you have a Plan B, C, and D, chances are that you won’t be under as much pressure as you could be.

Stay humble and remember the people who helped you along the way. Make sure you don’t discriminate against anyone. It really will come back to bite you later. KARMA!
Stay focused and NEVER QUIT! So many great ideas suffered because they were abandoned when it looked like failure was imminent. People tend to bail out when they think they aren’t doing as well as their goals have projected. Commit yourself to being in it for the long run. Nothing great is accomplished without hard work!

Don’t forget to join us this and every Thursday for “Diversity Thursdays” at GW Fins, on the corner of 9th St. and N. Tryon Street…as always, bring plenty of business cards, you never know who you might meet!!All vendors and event coordinators looking for ideas and help with planning, please contact our Event Management Team at professionalswagga@gmail.com. Also, anyone who is interested in advertising with us or creating a partnership through sponsoring, please email the above address. NO COVER!

YOU DO NOT WANT TO MISS THIS EVENT!! PROM AFTER HIGH SCHOOL! DOIN IT GROWN AND SEXY!

STAY TUNED FOR A WEDNESDAY NIGHT LIKE NO OTHER!!!!!!!

Were Growing...and NEVER STOPPING!!!!

The name is self-explanatory…two visionary and entrepreneurial women came together to form a group which specializes in/handles event planning, real estate transactions, and party promotions. Our intentions are to bring you exclusive, diverse events that focus on the industry we feel is our specialty, and that is fashion. We also write this blog and enjoy the experience of being able to reach all kinds of people through our words. Through this avenue, we’re also in the select position to give you the latest entertainment news, as well as the hottest parties and events in the Southeast. We say what we feel and are proud to do so!

Our future is bright and our drive is unstoppable. We are confident young women who will not lose or be defeated. We know what we stand for; we are not, nor will ever be followers…that’s the essence of Professional Swagga. We will not conform to who you think we should be.

Thank you to everyone who has supported us over this past year, we have so much appreciation for that! We look forward to continue bringing you the hottest events and helping you make any special day a success!!

Don’t forget to join us this and every Thursday for “Diversity Thursdays” at GW Fins, on the corner of 9th St. and N. Tryon Street…as always, bring plenty of business cards, you never know who you might meet!!

All vendors and event coordinators looking for ideas and help with planning, please contact our Event Management Team at professionalswagga@gmail.com. Also, anyone who is interested in advertising with us or creating a partnership through sponsoring, please email the above address.

It’s Party Time!!

Wednesday, July 2
Wine Down Wednesdays @ Prevue in NODA, doors open at 6pm, free admission

Thursday, July 3
The Legendary Gil Scott-Heron @ The Neighborhood Theatre, 511 E. 36th Street, $20 in advance, $25 at the door.

Friday, July 4
Slick Rick LIVE @ Amos Southend, 1423 S. Tryon Street, doors open @ 9, arrive early for tickets.

Saturday, July 5
Bun B performing LIVE tribute to Pimp C @ Club Eclipse, doors open @ 10pm, ladies free until 11.

P.S…We don’t throw parties, we throw events so you can party!!!

Summer in the City!

If you are like any young family on a tight budget, taking an out-of-town vacation may be out of the question this summer. So what do you do with the kids when the heat is on and that phrase "We're bored" begins to ring in your ears? Summer in the city can be fun and surprisingly cheap if you are willing to be resourceful and creative. Here are some summertime fun activities and ideas for your backyard and beyond...

1. Think about buying a pool. Even a small pool will provide hours of entertainment for children. I don't think there is a kid out there that doesn't love to splash around in the water. Look for one on sale at department or hardware stores (sales often happen on weekends). My parents bought us a second hand above ground pool when we were kids and got more than their money's worth out of it. If a pool is out of the question, try the sprinkler. Toy and department stores carry interesting sprinkler heads too if you need to shake things up a bit.

2. Get a sandbox. This is another great purchase that can provide hours of fun. A sandbox is inexpensive and sand is dirt-cheap. Throw in a pail, shovel and a few plastic molds and you have hours of fun. My sister and I spent hours in our sandbox building elaborate sand cities inhabited by plastic farm animals.

3. Try bike riding. Kids love riding bikes. This is an excellent item to buy second hand through the classified ads, at a sports swap, or a garage sale. If your children are too young to ride their own bike, invest in a bike cart. Again these can be found at a reasonable price second hand. Bike carts are available as single or double child carriers. We bought the stroller conversion kit for our cart so we can use it as a stroller when need be.
Bike rides can be great adventures. Pick up a bike path map in your city (available at outdoor stores or through your Chamber of Commerce) and vary routes. Pack a picnic lunch and stop by a river. Pull over at a park to stretch your legs. Bike riding is great exercise and fun.

4. Check out your local library. There is so much going on at the library these days. Most offer free children's programs such as story time. Libraries have more than just books. There are CD's, videos, talking books, Internet use, and magazines. It's nice to have some good reading material for those lazy afternoons in a lawn chair.

5. Find out when free or discounted days are for indoor attractions. Rainy days can drive everyone crazy if you don't get out for part of the day. Places like the museum, planetarium, movie theater or science center often has discounted or free admission days. Keep a list of these handy so you know where to go when the weather isn't agreeable.

6. Check out community programs in your city. City communities offer day programs for a reasonable fee. If there is financial need, often these programs are subsidized or free. Your local YMCA is a good place to start. There are all sorts of day camps that feature crafts, sports, drama, art, or music. Our city offers free "Stay and Play" programs at community centers where children can play organized sports, games or do a craft.

7. Find out about special events in your city. Most cities will have summer festivals or special events that go throughout July and August. Check your local newspaper or Chamber of Commerce to find out the summer offerings. Street festivals celebrating different cultures are great learning experiences. If you have children who have never seen a play before, some cities have local drama troupes that do plays in the park. Check out outdoor concerts too.

8. Have a barbecue in your backyard or at your local park with family and friends. There's nothing better than getting together with good friends and family, barbecuing traditional summer foods like hotdogs and hamburgers on the grill. Kids love it and so do most adults. Play Frisbee or baseball after dinner or simply relax and watch the sunset. Is there anything better on a balmy summer evening?

P.S. Preferred Sponsors

"Arm Candy" is a new business that sells designer purses and baby bags. They are sold by Diamond Staton, who has a fabolous array of colors, sizes, and styles that are guaranteed to fit any budget! Please contact her at 704-449-7928 or diamond.staton@hotmail.com for more information. Some samples will be available at the networking event so make sure you check them out!

Diversity Thursdays!!!

You do not want to miss this FREE networking each and every Thursday. Change your surroundings and watch your business prosper!!!!

GW Fins

9th and Tryon

Free parking in the Odell building...

5pm until 10pm.................

P.S. We don't just throw parties, we throw events so you can party!!!!!!!!!

A Different World.....

Going green is a relatively new movement that encourages people to protect and preserve our environment. This includes recycling, being energy-efficient, buying organic products, and saving water during the summer months. All of these things help us become more aware that our resources are limited and it also encourages us to find out more about keeping our environment as safe as possible. Read below for some tips on how to “go green” this summer and maybe incorporate some of these practices into your daily lifestyle!

It can be tempting to water plants at the times they seem to need it most, when the sun is directly overhead in mid-morning or early afternoon. But because water evaporates during the day before it has been fully absorbed by plant roots, it's better to water in the evening just as the day cools down for the night. Long stretches of cooler temperatures give the water a chance to permeate the soil and make its way to the roots. Consequently, less water is wasted in evaporation. On the other hand, in very cool climates plants can develop fungal growth if they're damp overnight. Under these conditions, water early in the morning. The more water makes it to plant roots, the less you need to give them.


Along with Labor Day and the Fourth of July, more Americans get a hankering for cookouts and weenie roasts during the summer months of the year. And whether the menu consists of burgers, bratwursts, T-bones or pork butt, Memorial Day is a big day for meat. With the livestock sector responsible for 18 percent of the world's greenhouse gas emissions, more than the combined emissions of all forms of transportation, all those beef burgers add up to extra carbon in the atmosphere.


If you're among the millions of grilling enthusiasts firing up the barbie this summer, consider a meal with a lower eco-impact. Because beef production releases three times more greenhouse gases than the production of chicken or fish, you'll make a big dent in your Memorial Day emissions by skipping the burgers and grilling up more chicken, fish and veggies instead.

Gas prices hit an all-time high of $3.61 on May 1--and then kept climbing! One week into the month, the average price was up to $3.671 a gallon. That's 20 percent more than drivers were paying this time last year. Drivers in New York have been hit even harder, paying an average of $3.813 for a gallon of regular, and in California it's costing drivers $3.921 a gallon to fill the tank! As the cost of oil becomes more and more prohibitive, getting more mileage to the gallon is essential. For those of us who aren't positioned to rush out and buy a hybrid this week, here are a few tips that will help your vehicle run more efficiently.
Replace clogged air filters. A clogged air filter can cut a vehicles fuel efficiency by 10 percent.
Check the air pressure on your tires and inflate any that are lower than the pressure recommended in the owner's manual. AccuTire's Programmable Tire Gauge ($19.95; www.properautocare.com) remembers the proper air pressure for you so can avoid pulling out the manual every time you check. Properly inflated tires can increase fuel efficiency by 3.3 percent.
Slow down. For most vehicles, fuel efficiency begins to drop rapidly at 60 mph. Driving within the speed limit can improve fuel efficiency by up to 23 percent.
Take it easy. Slamming on the brakes and accelerating too quickly can reduce fuel efficiency up to 33 percent.
Get a tune-up. Routine maintenance can up fuel efficiency by 4 percent, while fixing more serious problems can improve efficiency up to 40 percent.
Fueleconomy.gov has even more fuel-saving tips, but the best way to save fuel is to simply avoid using it. If it's an option, consider walking or getting around by bike during these warmer months. Check out Shifting Gears: 12 Tips on Moving From the Fast Lane to the Bike Lane to help get you in gear.

We want to always be a part of making the world a better place for us and for those who come after us. It is our belief that people should always strive to be and do the best they can and to help others whenever possible. And have fun doing it!!!!

The ladies of Professional Swagga present to you “DIVERSITY THURSDAYS”, which is a networking/social event that strives to bring people of all ethnic, cultural, and economic backgrounds together in one place so we can all benefit…you never know who you might meet!
Please join us this Thursday, June 5th at GW Fins (Odell building at the corner of 9th and Tryon) at 7:00pm until 10:00pm. This diverse networking event is FREE!!!!!!

Drink specials available!!!!!!!

P.S. We don't throw parties, we throw events so you can party!!!!!!!

Spiritually Inclined...

We feel so inclined to make all those we care about aware of the importance of spiritual well-being. Peace and serenity are two qualities that are needed in order to achieve balance in your life. Balance is one of the keys in having the highest quality of life. We offer you some tips on how to keep that balance. So whatever is causing you pain, stress, or anger, think about letting it go…

7 Quick Ways to Calm Down
Anxiety zappers that can rescue you from daily stresses by Therese J. Borchard.

I'm easily overwhelmed. When my kids' exuberant screams reach a decibel level my ears can't tolerate, when Chuck E., the life-size "rat" at the pizza place, starts doing his jig while flashing arcade lights blind me, or when I open my email to find 100 messages--I feel a meltdown coming on. Which is why I came up with seven quick ways to calm myself down.I turn to these when I don't have time to call my mom and hear her tell me, "Everything is going to be fine." They keep me centered and grounded for as long as possible, and they help me relax my body even during those times when screaming kids and dancing life-size rats converge.

1. Walk Away

Know your triggers. If a conversation about global warming, consumerism, or the trash crisis in the U.S. is overwhelming you, simply excuse yourself. If you're noise-sensitive and the scene at Toys-R-Us makes you want to throw whistling Elmo and his buddies across the store, tell your kids you need a time-out. (Bring along your husband or a friend so you can leave them safely, if need be.) My great-aunt Gigi knew her trigger points, and if a conversation or setting was getting close to them, she simply put one foot in front of another, and departed.

2. Close Your Eyes

Gently let the world disappear, and go within to regain your equilibrium. Ever since my mom came down with blepharospasm (a neurological tick of the eyelid), I've become aware of how important shutting our eyes is to the health of the nervous system. The only treatment available for this disorder is to have surgery that permanently keeps your eyelids open (you need to moisten them with drops, etc.). Such a condition would be living hell for my mom, because in closing her eyes she regains her balance and proper focus. The only time I recommend not using this technique is on the road (if you're driving).

3. Find Some Solitude

This can be challenging if you are at work, or at home with kids as creative and energetic as mine. But we all need some private time to let the nervous system regenerate. I must have known this back in college, because I opted for a tiny single room (a nun's closet, quite literally), rather than going in on a larger room with a closet big enough to store my sweaters. When three of my good friends begged me to go in with them on a killer quad, I told them, "Nope. Can't do it. Need my alone time, or else none of you would want to be around me. Trust me."My senior year I went to the extent of pasting black construction paper on the window above my door so no one would know if I was there, in order to get the hours of solitude that I needed.Be creative. Find your space. Any way you can. Even it involves black construction paper.


4. Go Outside

This is a true lifesaver for me. I need to be outside for at least an hour every day to get my sanity fix. Granted, I'm extremely lucky to be able to do so as a stay-at-home mom. But I think I would somehow work it into my schedule even if I had to commute into the city every day. Even if I'm not walking or running or biking or swimming, being outside calms me in a way that hardly anything else can. With an hour of nature, I go from being a bossy, opinionated, angry, cynical, uptight person into a bossy, opinionated, cynical, relaxed person. And that makes the difference between having friends and a husband to have dinner with and a world that tells me to go eat a frozen dinner by myself because they don't want to catch whatever grumpy bug I have.


5. Find Some Water

While watching Disney's "Pocahontas" the other day with my daughter Katherine (yes, I do get some of my best insights from cartoons), I observed the sheer joy the main character shows upon paddling down the river, singing about how she is one with the water. It reminded me of how universal the mood effects of water are, and how healing.On the rainy or snowy days that I can't walk the double stroller over to our local creeks, I do something the global-warming guys say not to; take a long shower, imagining that I am in the middle of a beautiful Hawaiian rain forest."Water helps in many ways," writes Elaine Aron. "When overaroused, keep drinking it--a big glass of it once an hour. Walk beside some water, look at it, listen to it. Get into some if you can, for a bath or a swim. Hot tubs and hot springs are popular for good reasons."


6. Breathe Deeply

Breathing is the foundation of sanity, because it is the way we provide our brain and every other vital organ in our body with the oxygen needed for us to survive. Breathing also eliminates toxins from our systems. Years ago, I learned the "Four Square" method of breathing to reduce anxiety:1. Breathe in slowly to a count of four.2. Hold the breath for a count of four.3. Exhale slowly through pursed lips to a count of four.4. Rest for a count of four (without taking any breaths).5. Take two normal breaths.6. Start over again with number one.


7. Listen to Music

Across the ages, music has been used to soothe and relax. During the worst months of my depression, I blared the soundtrack of "The Phantom of the Opera." Pretending to be the phantom with a cape and a mask, I twirled around our living room, swinging my kids in my arms. I belted out every word of "The Music of the Night." "Softly, deftly, music shall caress you, Feel it, hear it, secretly possess you...."The gorgeous song--like all good music--could stroke that tender place within me that words couldn't get to.

COLOR OF THE WEEK
BLUE - God's Righteousness (Rom 3:22; 4:13; 5:17; 9:30; 2 Cor 5:21; Phil 3:9; Heb 11:7) Because the believer has the forgiveness of sins and Positional Sanctification through the work of Christ at Salvation, the Father then imputes His Righteousness to the individual. The believer also shares Christ's Righteousness, since he is in union with Christ. This is symbolized by the color blue.