ITS HERE...CIAA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A lot of the mainstream media would like you to believe that the CIAA basketball tournament is a new phenomenon that is just another "black gathering" that does not have much significance or meaning. That is totally untrue and if you didn't go to an HBCU, then maybe you won't know this information. Even though most black colleges are not in the CIAA conference, it is the oldest Historically Black College Conference and was founded in 1912. Read below for more interesting facts concerning the CI double A!!!!!!


1830s - First HBCUs were established in the country.
1892 - Livingstone College and Johnson C. Smith University (then Biddle University) played in the first football game between two African-American colleges.
1912 - The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association was founded in Hampton, VA. When the conference was founded, it was originally known as the Colored Intercollegiate Athletic Association. It's founding fathers were Allen Washington and C.H. Williams of Hampton Institute; Ernest J. Marshall of Howard University; George Johnson of Lincoln University (PA); W.E. Atkins, Charles Frasher and H.P. Hargrave of Shaw University; and J.W. Barco and J.W. Pierce of Virginia Union University.
1920 - The Pittsburgh Courier selected the first unofficial black college basketball champions, Howard and Talledega.
1927 - There were a total of 77 HBCUs enrolling almost 14,000 students.
1946 - First CIAA Basketball Tournament.
John B. McLendon, now known as the "Father of Black Basketball," along with Talmadge Hall, John Burr and Harry Jefferson formed the first CIAA basketball tournament in a small gymnasium in Washington, D.C. on a $500 budget. The tournament was played in Turner Arena. Many southern cities didn't want a predominantly Black collegiate conference in their venues and didn't rent to the CIAA. And when the conference finally secured Turner Arena, the players had to sleep on the floor because they weren't allowed in the hotels. Still, students and fans turned out at the gymnasium for that first tournament.
1954 - Brown V. The Board of Education desegregated public schools.
1965 - The NCAA began accepting black colleges for membership.
1967- NBA Hall of Famer Earl "The Pearl" Monroe played for Coach Clarence "Big House" Gaines at Winston-Salem State and helped his team win the Division-II national title.
1973 - NCAA Division II and III playoffs began.
1980 - Virginia Union Panthers won the NCAA Division II Championship.
1988 - CIAA Tournament moves to Richmond, VA.
1989 - President George Bush issued Executive Order 12677 to strengthen the capacity of HBCUs to provide quality education and to increase their participation in federally sponsored programs.
1990 - Leon G. Kerry is promoted to Commissioner of CIAA.
1992 - The Virginia Union Panthers won the NCAA Division II Championship.
1994 - CIAA Tournament moves to Winston-Salem, NC.
1998 - Commissioner Leon Kerry secured the largest sponsorship package in history among HBCU conferences and Division II when Coca Cola North America signed a five year, $2 million agreement with the CIAA. He surpassed the preceding record when Coke renewed the contract at $3 million for another five years in 2003.
2000 - The CIAA2000.com website is believed to be the first college sports internet homepage developed singularly for one event, the CIAA Basketball Tournament.
2000 - The CIAA Tournament moves to Raleigh, NC.
2005 - CIAA teamed up with ESPN, the nation's sports leader, to create the largest HBCU conference television package in history.
2005 - The Virginia Union Panthers win the NCAA Division II Basketball Championship and visit the White House.
2006 - The CIAA Tournament moves to the city of Charlotte, NC.
2007 - CIAA shatters economic impact and attendance records for the Tournament during its second year in Charlotte.

Official CI Weekend Party Spots
Come party with us at the hottest spots during CI week! Professional Swagga, Thomas Washington, and Firm events brings you the best of the best on Friday and Saturday.


Thursday, Start it off right by going to The Sunset Club for the CI Jump off!!!!!!!!!!! FunkLabb, DJ Chase & Thomas Washington present



Friday Night Fever @ City Tavern, Friday,

February 29, 21 and up, 25 encouraged Ladies FREE before 10:30 pm.Sex in the City @ City Tavern, Saturday, March 1, Ladies FREE before 10:30 pm.Get your $15 advance tickets to ALL events @ http://www.ez-tixx.com/ , hurry because they are going fast! ADVANCED TICKETS ALMOST SOLD OUT!!!!! http://www.uptownciparties.com/








Saturday is the Official CI 3-in-1 Day Party...that's right $20 gives you access to 3 hotspots The Attic, Madison's, and Grand Central. 3 is always better than one... 400 TICKETS ALREADY SOLD!!!!!!!!!!!!

End your CI right............STAR POWER - 3 Ballrooms one price..... The Blake Hotel 555 S McDowell St 3 ballrooms 3 cities one price.
Welcome To DC ballroom - DC's finest gogo band, MAMBO Sauce
Welcome to NYC ballroom - performing live DJ Chase - BIZ MARKIE and celebrity friends
Welcome to ATL ballroom - The people's station, Mr. V103 aka FRANK SKI and celebrity friends performing live


JMI Telecom is proud to be sanctioned by the CIAA as the official host of the Premier CIAA Invitational Golf Tournament during CIAA week in Charlotte, NC. JMI is a Competitive Local Exchange Carrier (CLEC) based in Charlotte, NC; offering telecommunications and information technology services to both residential and enterprise clients, providing them with a "Total Telecom and IT Solution". JMI is committed to leading and supporting events and organizations that provide for the advancement of people within our community and our country.Golf attire is required. Collared shirts and slacks. No steel spikes are allowed on the courseSchedule 9:30 AM: Registration/continental breakfast10:30 AM: Review rules of play11:00 AM: Shotgun start portions of the proceeds will go to the ciaa scholarship fund call 1-866-516-5104 or jmiciaa@jmisp.com for more information.

Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2008 • Creative Loafing & The Sol Kitchen present Pop Life: The Tournament Edition. DJ DR, Kitch and Johnnie Davis on the wheels. 6 p.m.-2 a.m, Free food until 9 p.m., drink specials and mingle/network with some of the sexiest people in Charlotte . Exclusive/Official listening party for Erykah Badu's new album, "Amerykah" & Pete Rock's new album, " NY Finest's". Get there early!Prevue - 2909 N. Davidson St. 21 and over and no admission. http://www.thesolkitchen.com./



Thursday, Feb 28, 2008 The Sol Kitchen & Dynasty 5 presents "The Tip Off" with DJ BroRabb aka "Mr Lawd Have Mercy." 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Buckhead Saloon - 201 E. 5th St. (across the street from Bobcats Arena) $15 advance tickets while they last. 704-373-9380. http://www.thesolkitchen.com./ 21 and over - no athletic gear!

Friday, Feb. 29, 2008 The Sol Kitchen presents "The Mix Series" with Biz Markie & Friends. Charlotte's newest and hottest night club in Uptown, HOM located at 116 W. 5th St.(formerly Menage) 3 levels - Liv (lounge), Feast (cafe/restaurant), Play (top level dance club). 9 pm - 4 am. Serving food til 4am25 and over ONLY but if you are under 25 but above 21 and look the part, we might let you in - you need to be tight. Dress to kill is the dress code (it will strictly be enforced) & Smirnoff drink specials. For adv. tix/vip tix, http://www.thesolkitchen.com/ or call 704.375.3737. Table reservations


Saturday, March 1, 2008 Dynasty 5, The Sol Kitchen & Up Top Promotions present The Saturday Night Cabaret aka Ladies Night with/hosted by Grammy Nominated Artist Raheem Devaughn at The Omni Hotel 132 East Trade St. (2 blocks from the arena). Doors open at 9pm. 3 rooms for your pleasure! Dress Code enforced and $25 advance tickets while they last - http://www.thesolkitchen.com/, http://www.dynasty5.com/, Pacific Green - South Park Mall - 704.366.9474 or Eye Browz - Crabtree Mall (Raleigh) 919.789.0600

PS...We give you what you crave, not just what you need!!!

You Can Do Bad By Yourself!

Remember how your mother used to tell you that (and sometimes probably still does)! Well you can do bad or good by yourself, depending on your state of mind. Some people tend to think that they need to be with a significant other to make them happy, and that's just not the case. You need to find someone who you are connected with spiritually, physically, and in any other way you deem compatible. Learn to love yourself before you get involved with other people, and don't let anyone bring you down...you are worth so much more than that!!!

It Is Better To Be Alone Than In The Wrong Company

Tell me who your best friends are, and I will tell you who you are. If you run with wolves, you will learn how to howl. But, if you associate with eagles, you will learn how to soar to great heights. "A mirror reflects a man's face, but what he is really like is shown by the kind of friends he chooses." The simple but true fact of life is that you become like those with whom you closely associate – for the good and the bad.
The less you associate with some people, the more your life will improve. Any time you tolerate mediocrity in others, it increases your mediocrity. An important attribute in successful people is their impatience with negative thinking and negative acting people. As you grow, your associates will change. Some of your friends will not want you to go on. They will want you to stay where they are. Friends that don't help you climb will want you to crawl. Your friends will stretch your vision or choke your dream. Those that don't increase you will eventually decrease you. Consider this:
Never receive counsel from unproductive people.
Never discuss your problems with someone incapable of contributing to the solution, because those who never succeed themselves are always first to tell you how. Not everyone has a right to speak into your life. You are certain to get the worst of the bargain when you exchange ideas with the wrong person.
Don't follow anyone who's not going anywhere. With some people you spend an evening: with others you invest it.
Be careful where you stop to inquire for directions along the road of life.
Wise is the person who fortifies his life with the right friendships.
If you see people without a smile today…Give them one of yours!

Official CI Weekend Party Spots Come party with us at the hottest spots during CI week! Professional Swagga, Thomas Washington, and Firm events brings you the best of the best on Friday and Saturday.
Saturday is the Official CI 3-in-1 Day Party...that's right $20 gives you access to 3 hotspots The Attic, Madison's, and Grand Central. 3 is always better than one...
Fever @ City Tavern, Friday, February 29, 21 and up, 25 encouraged Ladies FREE before 10:30 pm.
Sex in the City @ City Tavern, Saturday, March 1, Ladies FREE before 10:30 pm.

Get your $15 advance tickets to ALL events @
http://www.ez-tixx.com/ , hurry because they are going fast!


Click here for more information: http://www.uptownciparties.com/


JMI Telecom is proud to be sanctioned by the CIAA as the official host of the Premier CIAA Invitational Golf Tournament during CIAA week in Charlotte, NC. JMI is a Competitive Local Exchange Carrier (CLEC) based in Charlotte, NC; offering telecommunications and information technology services to both residential and enterprise clients, providing them with a "Total Telecom and IT Solution". JMI is committed to leading and supporting events and organizations that provide for the advancement of people within our community and our country.

Golf attire is required. Collared shirts and slacks. No steel spikes are allowed on the course
Schedule 9:30 AM: Registration/continental breakfast10:30 AM: Review rules of play11:00 AM: Shotgun start portions of the proceeds will go to the ciaa scholarship fund call 1-866-516-5104 or jmiciaa@jmisp.com for more information


Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2008

• Creative Loafing & The Sol Kitchen present Pop Life: The Tournament Edition. DJ DR, Kitch and Johnnie Davis on the wheels. 6 p.m.-2 a.m, Free food until 9 p.m., drink specials and mingle/network with some of the sexiest people in Charlotte . Exclusive/Official listening party for Erykah Badu's new album, "Amerykah" & Pete Rock's new album, " NY Finest's". Get there early!
Prevue - 2909 N. Davidson St. 21 and over and no admission. http://www.thesolkitchen.com./



Thursday, Feb 28, 2008
• The Sol Kitchen & Dynasty 5 presents "The Tip Off" with DJ BroRabb aka "Mr Lawd Have Mercy." 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Buckhead Saloon - 201 E. 5th St. (across the street from Bobcats Arena) $15 advance tickets while they last. 704-373-9380. http://www.thesolkitchen.com./ 21 and over - no athletic gear!

Friday, Feb. 29, 2008
The Sol Kitchen presents "The Mix Series" with Biz Markie & Friends. Charlotte's newest and hottest night club in Uptown, HOM located at 116 W. 5th St.(formerly Menage) 3 levels - Liv (lounge), Feast (cafe/restaurant), Play (top level dance club). 9 pm - 4 am. Serving food til 4am
25 and over ONLY but if you are under 25 but above 21 and look the part, we might let you in - you need to be tight. Dress to kill is the dress code (it will strictly be enforced) & Smirnoff drink specials. For adv. tix/vip tix, http://www.thesolkitchen.com/ or call 704.375.3737. Table reservations

Saturday, March 1, 2008
Dynasty 5, The Sol Kitchen & Up Top Promotions present

The Saturday Night Cabaret aka Ladies Night with/hosted by Grammy Nominated Artist Raheem Devaughn at The Omni Hotel 132 East Trade St. (2 blocks from the arena). Doors open at 9pm. 3 rooms for your pleasure! Dress Code enforced and $25 advance tickets while they last - http://www.thesolkitchen.com/, http://www.dynasty5.com/, Pacific Green - South Park Mall - 704.366.9474 or Eye Browz - Crabtree Mall (Raleigh) 919.789.0600

P.S...We give you what you crave, not just what you need!!!

Giving Back and Never Giving Up

February has been designated Black History Month since 1976. This was an expansion of Negro History Week, established in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson, a Virginia historian, author, and journalist. This is a time to reflect on the accomplishments and sacrifices made by our Black ancestors and relatives. It has often been a long-standing joke in the Black community that we “got the shortest month of the year”, but you don’t have to wait until February to celebrate the great deeds and discuss the great injustices that Black people have traditionally gone through. There are countless resources that can be utilized all year round, and we have plenty of resources right here in Charlotte that you can check out for yourself:

www.museumofthenewsouth.org
www.charlottecultureguide.com
www.charlottemuseum.org

We should always celebrate our history, no matter what culture we come from or have assimilated into. This is a multifaceted and multicultural world, and we need to realize and strive to realize that every day. Some other notable events in history that occurred this month:

-The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was signed on February 2, 1848 between Mexico and the United States, ending U.S. Intervention in that area.
-Native Americans began The Longest Walk, a march from Alcatraz Island in San Francisco to Washington D.C. as a reminder of the forced removal of Native Americans from their lands due to White occupation. The march began February 11, 1978.
-Nelson Mandela was freed from a South African prison after over 27 years of imprisonment on February 11, 1990.

Make It Work!!
Last week was the infamous fall Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in New York City. It’s an opportunity to create a huge name for oneself as a designer, positively WOW the critics with a variation of your signature looks, or become the biggest flop in fashion history! Among those showing their fall collections were BCBG Max Azria, Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, Tracy Reese, and Zac Posen. The overriding theme this year was classic 1950’s chic—with a lot of dresses to show for it! Click here, http://www.amny.com/entertainment/custom/fashion/, for more info on Fashion Week, see the runway shows, or see how you can obtain that one of a kind couture outfit.



Entertainment Blast
Congratulations to big winners Kanye West and Amy Winehouse, who won four and five Grammys, respectively. Other winners include Rihanna and Jay-Z

(Rihanna and Jay-Z (Umbrella), Justin Timberlake, and even Barack Obama, who won for the best Spoken Word Album. Highlight of the night: Beyonce performing with Tina Turner! Congratulations to all of the winners and you can view the full list of Grammy Award winners here:
http://grammys.org/Grammy_Awards/50th_show/list.aspx


Official CI Weekend Party Spots
Come party with us at the hottest spots during CI week! Professional Swagga, Thomas Washington, and Firm events brings you the best of the best on Friday and Saturday. Saturday is the Official CI 3-in-1 Day Party...that's right, $20 gives you access to 3 hotspots, The Attic, Madison's, and Grand Central. 3 is always better than one...click below for more information:
http://www.theatticuptown.com/
http://www.madisonsbar.com/
http://www.uptownsgrandcentral.com/

Fever @ City Tavern, Friday, February 29, 21 and up, 25 and up encouraged. Ladies FREE before 10:30 pm.
Sex in the City @ City Tavern, Saturday, March 1, Ladies FREE before 10:30 pm.


P.S. Preferred Spots
Wednesday, February 13
R&B Live @ AllStars Bar and Grill, 5638 Albemarle Road, $10 cover
Want Me, Take Me, Buy Me @ Play @ HOM, 115 W. 5th Street, FREE

Thursday, February 14
Talent Thursday @ Tempo, 4809 Wilkinson Blvd., $10 cover
The Love Spell @ Verona Lounge, 127 N. Tryon, $15 cover

Friday, February 15
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Belk Theater
Rahsaan Patterson performing live @ Tempo, $20 cover
Glam Upscale Lingerie and Afterparty @ Villa Antonio, 4707 S. Blvd., ladies free b4 11:30, $10 cover

Saturday, February 16
Jermain Taylor vs. Kelly Pavlik, Allure Restaurant and Bar, 1508 S. Mint St., free b4 11.
Phenomenal Women’s Club of Charlotte 2nd Annual Founder’s Day Ball @ The Café Room, 1250 Lucky Penny Drive, $35.00 cover

P.S… We give you what you crave, not just what you need!!!!

Work Smarter, Not Harder.... Part 2

We love it!!!! This is the time of year when most people seem to be the most focused...use your energies to jump-start that project you've been too lazy to begin. Don't let sloth thwart the big plans and goals you have for yourself. And DEFINITELY don't let anyone else's baggage bring you down!! That being said, see the below article and read principles that can be applied to any aspect of your life...treat others how you want to be treated and great things come to unselfish people!!

Avoiding these seven deadly sins will also help individuals balance their "whole life" and assure they are ready to take on new workplace challenges as they are presented -- and execute them well.


Peter Drucker, the famed management author, guru, and teacher said it best: "Lifting a person's vision to higher sights, is the raising of a person's performance to a higher standard." Unless commitment is made, there are only promises and hopes.

Seven Deadly Workplace Sins
At least seven "deadly workplace sins" detail key emotional offenses professionals should avoid at all costs to better assure upward career mobility. A few common sense tips will help aspiring pros get on the path to the ever-elusive paycheck promise land.
Pride
First, there's pride. Far too many who experience "workplace wins" take full credit for these achievements, regardless of any support or assistance received in the process. What often goes unrecognized is that people around, and especially below, the serially solo-successful resent the egocentricity, and may actually begin to actively undermine that person's efforts in the future. While one's pride wants all due recognition, a team philosophy can build the grass-roots support that can fast-track a career. Indeed, a dose of acknowledgment of and appreciation for one's peers and subordinates, so they may share in some of the glory, can go a long way to foster one's long-term success.
Envy
Moreover, while it's OK to recognize other individuals or organizations as they achieve, lamenting "what should have been yours" can be destructive and can adversely impact your own ability to focus on the job tasks at hand. Becoming envious of others in the workplace can sabotage your self esteem, which is one vital characteristic of every successful worker or executive. Rather than being envious, let the accomplishments of others become motivational fuel for your fire in working toward your own successes.
Anger
Anger is another motion that needs to be held in check. Begetting nothing but disagreement, dispute, tension or conflict, anger provides no benefit in the workplace. There is simply nothing productive about anger, which impairs one's objectivity, poise and self control. Don't let a bout of righteousness damage your reputation and image in the workplace. It's fine to feel passionately about your job or a project at hand and to disagree with others, but learn how to channel those emotions into actions that will work to your benefit in the eyes of others -- especially your superiors -- rather than against it. Those prone to angry outbursts rarely get promoted; they are seen as being poor leaders who cannot inspire or motivate others.
Short-sightedness
One's selfish desire for "more, sooner" is what motivates many in the Western culture to achieve their career goals. But taking this notion to the extreme can and will be self defeating as core values become misguided and life becomes unbalanced in the process. The road to success requires a long term approach in all aspects of one's job duties. Those laser-focused on quick, short-term gains may do well for the moment, but will be ill-prepared to take things to the next level.
Complacency
At the other end of the spectrum, sloth, or simply put, complacency and laziness have no place whatsoever in the workplace -- especially for those with high aspirations. Expecting one's past achievements and successes to carry them forward in their long-term career is imprudent. Today's uber-competitive global marketplace ensures that only those who continue to grow, evolve and make fresh contributions of value will succeed. In a global environment where outsourcing is becoming a norm, everyone at all levels of the employment "food chain" is now replaceable. So treat every work day and every project as if your job, and your future at large, depends on it. It very well may
Imbalance
Many individuals move up the corporate ladder so fast that they actually end up failing as a consequence. More isn't always better -- especially if you're not ready for the challenge at hand. It's important to ensure that you are not only professionally ready to take on a new and bigger challenge, for which expectations are equally bigger, but also that your personal life is ready for the new demands and strains to be placed upon it. Achieving career success also includes maintaining a life balance, and a misplaced professional desire can create a backlash both at home as well as amid peers for your perceived obsessiveness.
Lust
At times this can spill over to lust. An overly intense desire for what others have achieved at work, or being chronically dissatisfied with one's own status, is a surefire career killer. Spending an inordinate amount of time fixated on what you don't have rather than what you do will foster a bad attitude and negative overall demeanor.


Above all, one's overall "presence" in the office plays a big part in who gets promoted and who doesn't. No matter how ambitious, it's prudent to be present and make the most out of your current position at this moment in time. Organizations recognize and reward those with a good attitude who make the most of a situation. Winners recognize other's success with sportsmanlike conduct, while at the same time exhibiting an air of confidence that they, and their team, will realize their own great achievements.

John McKee, founder and president of BusinessSuccessCoach.net, is the author of "Career Wisdom - 101 Proven Strategies to Ensure Workplace Success" and "21 Ways Women in Management Shoot Themselves in the Foot

Copyrighted, Forbes.com. All rights reserved

Critic's Corner
"When to know you are not wanted"
This personally happened to someone I know. They tried to enter a certain establishment downtown close to College Street on a Friday night(we won't name any names, but the old MYTHOS) only to be turned away each and every time. The excuses are so weak. Examples: horizontal lines on shirt that represent hip hop, the short sleeve coming down to elbow, pant's legs too long, and the list goes on.......How hard it is for a neat urban man to enter into the establishment? Is the money not good enough or is it our culture? Email us and give us your experiences in Uptown Charlotte's hottest nightspots.
When culture clashes.........


Word of Week
caterwaul \KAT-uhr-wawl\, intransitive verb:
1. To make a harsh cry. 2. To have a noisy argument. 3. A shrill, discordant sound.



For those of us keeping count, it's now Hillary-3 (NV, NH, FL), Obama-2 (IA, SC).

Super Tuesday is next week, February 5, unfortunately NC is not participating; 24 other states will be holding primaries or caucuses on that date. Keep yourself informed, no matter who you find yourself endorsing...




PS Preferred HOT spots

Check out the only spot in the city that features poetry and a live band every week on Tuesdays and Thursdays. JC the poet, of Touch One Productions, has been putting on this show for the last 7 years and is one of the best-known performers in Charlotte. Check out the website, www.touchoneproductions.com, and don't forget to go down to the Wine Up on 3306 N. Davidson Street, we promise you won't regret it!

$20 ROLLER SETS!!!! Ladies come out to the all new "Relax Experts". They are now open!!!!!!! Located 4820 Monroe Rd (Eastway and Sharon Amity). This classy salon has all the upgrades including Wireless Internet on the property. Special for the first week of February: "BRING A FRIEND AND RECEIVE 1/2 OFF YOUR SERVICE" (only for equal or greater value) Call Darrin at 704-309-0648.

Wednesday, January 30th

Black Business Network @ Allure - 1508 Mint St - "Female Entrepreneur in the Queen City"

Thursday, January 31th

Thirsty Thursdays @ Rustic Martini - 616 N Tryon - 616 N tryon steet by 9th

Friday, February 1st

1st Fridays @ Jillians - 200 E. Bland - BlackOut party hosted by Mya with DJ Magic

Monday February 4th

Martini Mondays @ Allstars - Albermale Rd

P.S.....What you crave, not just what you want!!!!!

"Work Smarter, Not Harder"...

The best way to get ahead in this life is to concentrate on what the title says…Whether you are motivated by monetary, spiritual, physical, or mental health, (or all of these combined), then this is what you need to do, if you haven't already. For us who work for other people (for now!), the following article is a way to focus energies in a positive and linear direction to stay one step ahead of the game.



Working Smart: How to Get a Raise in Three Months
The 12-Week Challenge to Getting the Salary You Deserve
By Erin E. Whitlock


Money is often a touchy topic because there's a lot riding on it. It could be that you don't want to seem confrontational, or "rock the boat" with a supervisor. But demanding what you're worth plays a significant role in being compensated according to skill level and workload. We're here to help by offering challenges every week for the next 12 weeks, to get you closer to earning the raise you deserve.

Week 1.Arrive early and leave late: Head in 30 minutes to an hour early each day to give yourself the chance to organize your workload, meditate, and send out or return important e-mails (Hopefully one to your boss, so that she will recognize the time stamp!). Work in breaks around your daily objectives rather than focusing on how much time you can be away from your daily tasks. Stick around after close to tie up loose ends, file documents, or perform other tedious office tasks that can often get pushed to the backburner.

Week 2. Start keeping a daily log Jot down all of your completed tasks, contributions and accomplishments at the end of each day. "When you are ready to talk about your raise you'll have a list of examples," says Walker, including ways you saved time, helped coworkers out of a bind, contributed to team effort, and/or developed a better system. Tracking your productivity will also show you where you need to spend more or less time.

Week 3. Review the company's annual report To get more detailed information about the company's business, finances, management, and a list of contact names, check Freeedgar.com (EDGAR: Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval system) for 10-K (annual) or 10-Q (quarterly) reports. Publicly traded companies file those with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Week 4. Join a professional organization Surrounding yourself with others who share your passion or your job title may help you network with those who know of opportunities. Also, staying abreast of trends and new developments in your field will make you a more viable employee. Use the Encyclopedia of Associations through LexisNexis as a reference to find associations relevant to your field. Head to your public library to access the site.

Week 5. Examine the market If your professional association doesn't offer salary surveys, look for specialty sites, like Careercoachrd.com, that address the needs of your industry. Jobsmart.org, Monster.com and Salary.com are also great resources. Whitcomb also advises asking people in your network about salary trends for your position and those above yours: "What's the going rate for someone with my experience at your company? What would a top performer earn?"

Week 6. Learn the higher-ups in your company Knowing who the key players are is a smart and easy way to move ahead. Check company Web sites or popular sites such as Hoovers, Bizjournals, Bloomberg, and Dun & Bradstreet to search general information (board members, higher-level employees, etc.) for free. For a more in-depth look at corporate information, you may have to subscribe to specialized sites, but you can write it off at tax time!

Week 7. Recruit a career coach To assess your professional goals and plan ways to attain them. "Coaches can teach you how to communicate your contributions and accomplishments, and approach your boss with confidence," says Walker. "They can also guide you on how to establish relationships with potential mentors or those who will champion your cause, and how to network effectively at professional association meetings." To find a career coach in your area, visit Certifiedcareercoaches.com, a national database of certified coaches that can help you assess your next move.

Week 8. Enroll in a certification class or training seminar Added skills equal added qualifications. The better your skills (backed by recognized certification) the higher the pay scale you are eligible for. Not only will getting more training win points in your supervisor's favor, it's also a great coup to add to your résumé. And seek training both in and outside your specific job function to round out your skillset.

Week 9. Organize an office-wide function From planning a canned goods drive during the holidays, or forming a team for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer 3-day, management loves to see those who can take charge and successfully organize and shepherd projects. Plus, you'll get your name out to higher-level executives who might not have known it otherwise. Best-case scenario: The person you work alongside for the event could turn out to be a champion for you. Week 10. Volunteer for a new assignment Whitcomb also suggests asking your boss for projects that will give you more exposure in the company. Network beyond your comfort zone—engage leaders from other departments, vendors, customers, and so on. Taking on more responsibility is leverage for asking for more money.

Week 11. Have the talk with your boss Schedule a meeting with your supervisor to talk about a raise. Take important documentation such as certifications, documented praise, an updated résumé, research on the market, etc. Be clear about your professional advancement and its impact on the company's bottom line. "When 'languaging' the topic of salary—keep the conversation centered on value and find common ground," says Whitcomb.

Some sample "conversations" include: Ms. Manager, I'm excited about where the company is headed, and have been looking at my long-term goals at the same time so that I can contribute even more value to the company. In the next X months, I'd like to take on some projects that would expand my scope of experience and allow me to contribute in the areas of ___ and ____. My financial goals are to be making a base of XX dollars plus bonus within that time frame, as well. I have some ideas about how that can be accomplished, as well as the return on investment the company would realize as a result.

If the manager says there's nothing available, ask when there might be money: I respect that reality, Mr. Manager. When does budget money become available? January, you say? I'd be glad to visit the subject now and, provided you see value here, take on my new responsibilities in January.

If there "isn't money in the budget" ask:Mr. Manager, What would you need to see from me in order to help you find the budget money? What kind of response, what kind of ROI, what kind of accomplishments would help free up money?
Basically "PS" suggest if the company doesn't have any money, find another company!!!!

Week 12. Reassess the situation Even if you've presented your case, and it was met with resistance, keep the doors open for continued conversation by asking permission to revisit the subject at a future date. After agreeing on a meeting time, Whitcomb says to mark your calendar to remind you about following up with your manager. Plot out weekly check-up times to meet with your career coach to make sure you're on course with progress. "Creating momentum is critical," says Whitcomb. "Your ability to persevere will be a sign to your manager that you are, indeed, ready for more responsibility."

Stay Fly Tip of the week
Be confident in your own style. Don't let others change you!!!!!


"PS" Preferred Spot
Friday
Legacy of Black Women Short Film Festival - Spirit Square
131 N. Tryon Street - $15 or 2 for $25. Event begins at 7:00.

Saturday
Jones vs. Trinidad Fight Party - Club Eclipse
3746 n Davidson st - 21 and up

Sunday
Swagger Sundays - The Sunset Club
South Blvd - Ladies free before 10:30 - 21 and up

Monday
Martini Monday - Allstars Bar and Grill

Wednesday
R&B live - Allstars Bar and Grill

Thursday
Martini & Heels - On The Roxx
14021 Conlan Circle, B-6, Charlotte, NC - learn to make your own Martini

Entertainment Blast
Our condolences goes out to Usher due to the loss of his dad. He was a substance abuse user. Usher and wife was at his side in the hospital when he died.

P.S Word of the day

upbraid \uhp-BRAYD\, transitive verb:
To scold or criticize harshly.


Coming soon............Thursday afterwork social that is like no other........


Featured Real estate leasing/selling agent:
Erica Strong
704-400-7748
http://www.elderbroach.com/


P.S. We give you what you crave not just what you want.......................

Rethink, Refocus, Redo!!!

It's finally 2008, and Happy Belated New Year to all of our people!!! We really appreciate your readership, support, and ideas, so keep it up! The time has come for everyone to re-evaluate their lives and determine if you are on the right course. Reflect on this past year. Did you accomplish all of your goals? Did you make sure you handled everything correctly? Did everything always get paid on time? For most people, the answer is no. The beginning of the year is always a great time to get your affairs in order and start on a new course, especially if the last one was not particularly successful for you. Don't just concentrate on new (sometimes repeated) resolutions that usually do not last long. Think and focus on SOLUTIONS...that will keep you on a steady path to where you want to be!

The Stages of Change

New Year's is "an excellent time for change," says Prochaska, coauthor of Changing for Good (William Morrow and Company). It "represents a new beginning" and brings with it a sense of "getting down to work" after the holidays. The problem, he explains, is that people equate change with action. Yet action, he believes, is only the fourth stage in the process of change.

Action cannot take place, Prochaska argues, unless it is preceded by the following:

• Precontemplation—feeling that the situation is hopeless or denying that there is a problem.
• Contemplation—accepting that there is a problem and beginning to think seriously about changing it.
• Preparation—developing a firm, detailed scheme for action.

In other words, there's no such thing as making changes cold turkey, even when people think that's how they've accomplished something.


P.S. Preferred Spots

Friday, January 11

Do It Free Friday, Buffalo Wild Wings (University) featuring Good Look Entertainment and Swagger and Company, FREE admission all night.

The Underground Soul Tour presents...Soulganic, Tempo, Charlotte, NC, $10 advance, $15 at the door.

Karaoke Fridays, The Other Woman Sports Bar, 7200 Albemarle Road, Charlotte, NC, FREE admission.

Saturday, January 12

Profiles @ Tilt, Tilt on Trade, Charlotte, NC, presented by Double F and The Funklabb, ladies FREE all night.

The Black Winter Party, Presto's Bar and Grill, 445 W. Trade Street, all Capricorns FREE before 11:30.

Sunday, January 13

Allen Iverson and the Denver Nuggets bring Club AI, Jillian's (Uptown), Celebrity Pre-Game Party.

6 more days till Christmas..............

Four Ways to Make Job Resolutions Work
by Caroline Levchuck

Every January, millions of people make New Year's resolutions, many of which are work-related. Get a new job. Get a promotion. Get a raise.
Unfortunately, many of these vows will fall by the wayside before the end of the first month of the year. Folks lose momentum. Some get overwhelmed. And others lose their nerve. Use these tips to make your resolutions a lasting reality in 2008.
1. Be Clear About Your Intentions
Terry Wilson-Malam, a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC), believes that all resolutions must be born out of clarity if people are going to stay the course. She counsels clients to be as honest as possible about what they want. If you're not sure of what your intent is, Wilson-Malam suggests, "Start a log of your accomplishments, small and large over the past few years. Those things will tell you where you are and where you can go next."
Also, ask yourself what you want more and less of. Do you want more flexibility? Less stress? More responsibility? Fewer meetings? Keep a list of your intentions, as they will inform the action you need to take.
2. Make a Plan with Actionable Steps
"An action plan is absolutely imperative," says Wilson-Malam, owner of Wilson Malam Coaching and Consulting. Create a plan that works toward your goal, whether it's growing your network or looking for new work. Then, she advises breaking the plan down into actionable steps. "Focus on small steps that are realistic. If your plan is to network, choose events that you'll go to, but choose them carefully to make sure they are in line with your overall intentions."
The executive coach adds, "Getting promoted is a bit harder to be actionable about as compared to finding a new job. But you can learn to be in the right frame of mind -- think and act like a manager in certain situations at work to help you move toward your goal."
3. Measure Your Results
Results motivate changers to stick to their plans, so it's very important that you see measurable results as you adhere to your resolution. However, Wilson-Malam, says, "You have to be very clear as to what those results will be." This stems from having a straightforward plan of action and clarity on what you want to accomplish.
"Being able to tick off things from your action list can even be a result," she adds.
4. Stay Focused
It's easy to start the year with the best of intentions only to lose your nerve as your goal is within sight. Wilson-Malam says, "If you've been in a job for a long time, it's really easy to hate it but love what you know about it. A new search and a new job often mean more work and more time and going out of your comfort zone."
To muster courage, she urges job-changers to go back to their list of intentions. "If you look at that list and it reminds you that you're stagnating, that will make you less afraid of changing now."
She also suggests enlisting the help of a trusted confidante, a mentor, or a coach who can cheer you on and remind you why you undertook this challenge in the first place.


Calls for buying less this season
by TIM FUNK
On this, one of the busiest shopping weekends of the year, let me tell you what I saw last weekend when I showed up for Mass at St. Peter's Catholic -- my regular church -- in uptown Charlotte.
Better yet, let me show you what I saw:


St. Peter's had plastered copies of this poster on glass doors leading to the sanctuary, along with an invitation to come to the church meeting hall "for a socially conscious Christmas."
Hundreds were intrigued enough to come by after Mass. They grabbed up copies of catalogues filled with info on how to make financial gifts to mostly local charities in the name of those somebodies on their Christmas lists. They also picked "ornaments" off an Angel Tree, thereby promising to buy a Christmas present for a poor child or adult.
Clint Hunsche, the church's director of religious education, said the message was simple: "Rather than buy another stupid sweater or a bottle of perfume for a loved one who doesn't need it, why not do something to make a difference in the world?"
Hunsche downloaded the poster from a Mennonite Web site. Another of their posters: "Santa Came/Jesus Wept."
Check them out at http://www.buynothingchristmas.org/.

Unfortunate accident....

This week there was a fire at this house in the am. Click here for the story:http://www.charlotte.com/news/story/410360.html.charlotte.com/news/story/410360.html
We still do not know the cause for the fire. Our condolences goes out to this family of 3. Thank God they were not at home and the 2 firefighters are ok that was trapped in the garage when it collapsed. We would like to give donations to this family. They lost 99% of their items. So anything will help. They have a 2 year old daughter. Please email us at professionalswagga@gmail.com to arrange pick up.

Yum Yummy................
These desserts are highly recommended by P.S. So if you can't make it home to taste your grandmother dessert or if you have to bring a dish, or you just do have time to make that dessert please give my girl a call for a delicious treat. Oh and that peach cobbler is head and head with my grandma cobbler.

“A Taste of Home For The Holidays by Chudney”
Enjoy Southern Home Made Desserts This Holiday Season

“Like Mama Used To Make” Peach Cobbler Large $22 Small $15

“Bubbling Brown” Apple Cobbler Large $22 Small $15

“Sweeter Than Ricky Drew” Cherry Cobbler Large $22 Small $15

“To Hell With My Diet” Strawberry Crème Dessert Large$22 Small $18

“Too Good To Be True” Luscious Lemon Dessert Large $22 Small $18



Poetry for the soul........
Do Not Lose Heart
Therefore we do not lose heart.
Though outwardly we are wasting away,
yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.
For our light and momentary troubles
are achieving for us an eternal glory
that far outweighs them all.
So we fix our eyes not on what is seen,
but on what is unseen.
For what is seen is temporary,
but what is unseen is eternal.
- 2 Corinthians 4:16-18


Today's Quote....
If you have one eye on yesterday, and one eye on tomorrow, you’re going to be cockeyed today.-Anonymous


Word of the day
tocsin \TOCK-sin\, noun:
-An alarm bell, or the ringing of a bell for the purpose of alarm. or a warning.

Entertainment Blast........

If you didn’t attend the last “Pop Life” party of the year at Prevue last night, you really missed out on a fantastic end to a great year! We were so impressed with the turnout and met a lot of interesting people. Be sure to check it out next year. It’s all about networking, people!!!


Local Talent
Troy Whitehurst is an up and coming filmmaker, actor, and consultant. Check out the trailer for his new movie, A Victim of Circumstance, at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2mztyDPQSRE. This emotionally charged feature looks to build on the awareness of domestic violence and the effects it has on the community. Power 98’s Tone X is also a part of the cast. The movie will be screened at upcoming film festivals nationally.


Okay, you asked, and we delivered!! Coming soon from P.S., Thursday Night Meet and Greet. We love to promote diversity in the community and also have a great time doing it. We will keep you informed and promise to send all of our readers a special invite!



Go get "Growing Pains", Mary J Blige. This time she has mastered her skill. Great present for all the "Grown Women" in your life.

"SuperHead" a rapper? Eddie Murphy has a new record label and has signed Ms. Karrine. I guess he didn't hear her on king Magazine mix tape. She sucks.

http://www.king-mag.com/online/?p=4177

Weather in Mecklenburg

This Afternoon
Mostly cloudy with a 20 percent chance of rain. Highs in the lower 50s. Southeast winds around 5 mph.

Tonight
Cloudy. A chance of rain in the evening...then rain likely after midnight. Lows around 40. East winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70 percent.

Friday
Cloudy. A chance of rain in the morning. Highs in the mid 40s. Northeast winds around 10 mph. Chance of rain 40 percent.

Friday Night
Mostly cloudy. Lows in the mid 30s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.

Saturday
Mostly cloudy. Highs in the lower 50s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.

Saturday Night
Cloudy with a 40 percent chance of showers. Lows in the mid 40s.

Sunday
Cloudy with a 50 percent chance of showers. Highs in the lower 60s.

Sunday Night and Monday
Mostly cloudy. Lows in the mid 30s. Highs in the mid 50s.

Monday Night
Cloudy. Lows in the mid 30s.

Christmas Day through Wednesday
Mostly cloudy. Highs in the mid 40s. Lows in the lower 30s.




P.S. We give you what you crave, not just what you want!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!