Expo Update

Expo 2006: This is big, really big!

2006-05-11T00:33:00.000-07:00

This is sooooooooo big, we couldn't wait to tell you: Can't see images? Visit http://www.expoupdate.blogspot.com

The 2006 L.A. Black Business Expo (BBX) is New and Improved!

Release of Expo 2006: New And Improved!
by Harold Hambrick, President and Myra Wallace, Expo Director

We heard you, Expo sponsors and exhibitors, and we want you to know we have responded. For the past few years, as our West Coast Black Music Festival (a part of the Expo)has grown, so has the noise level on the floor. On the floor, we have had exhibitors blast music, karaoke, TV's, and even live performances. That's normally great marketing, but for the purposes of conducting business, it is inhibiting. Many of you have complained that you can't even hear yourself think. Add to that overhead announcements and the Entertainment Stage and by day two that makes for some surly entrepreneurs.

For that reason, we have taken into account your suggestions. These are changes you will see for 2006:

1.) We will maintain our low prices as we have done for years, for both exhibitors and attendees. Right now the $100 discount is in effect until May 31 for those of you who plan ahead. If you had been exhibiting at the Expo for the past 5 years, you would have saved $500! Go ahead, decide today to participate.

2.) We have dealt with the noise problem on the floor:

We will rearrange the entertainment schedules so that they are not as overpowering. Expect details next month. We will schedule overhead announcements to allow lapses of silence in between announcements.

We will ask our radio stations to follow the lead of KJLH and conduct onsite interviews which are considerably quieter.
All businesses that feel they need audio, like DJ services and Karaoke vendors, will be asked to provide head sets for patrons to enjoy their talents.

3.) We have announced that our new theme is Business: It's A Family Affair. Joining us this year (to round out the family) we are proud to announce Malik Yoba, actor and businessman, will be joining Wendy Raquel Robinson, actress and business woman. And Malik, who has authored a book will be speaking at our Youth Summit this year.

4.) We have selected THOSE PLUMBERS of LR Services Plumbing. The Redway Brothers for our ad campaign this year. Pictured at left: Owen, Leonard and Andrew. They represent our theme Business: It's a Family Affair, for they are the latest in the line of 6 generations of plumbers. Need a plumber? Visit: http://www.lrservicesplumbing.com/

5.) Last but not least, we are bringing back the Faith Pavilion in a big way. In fact we are looking for someone to coordinate that Pavilion so that the churches and other religious institutions can return to the Expo. Call (323) 290-4743 for position details.

We met with those sponsors and exhibitors who stepped forward to voice their concerns, and we listened.

We know we have something big here. We are improving our business, so the entire Expo can be "New and Improved."
____________________________________________________________________
Wow, thanks Harold and Myra!
That is great news! OK, so please keep reading, there is a lot more to tell you!

WHAT'S COMING UP: (There will be more on Expo Update in days to come!)

This Saturday, May 13:
KJLH Women's Health Forum: Jacquie Stephens and the women (and men) at KJLH FM work very hard to stage this free health forum at Hollywood Park every year. Doors open at 7 AM, event closes at 2 PM, Hollywood Park Entertainment Center (Prairie and Century in Inglewood.) Over 1000 women attend and take classes (I'm excited about the Rites of Passage Class, so bring your daughters!) Other classes include Yoga, classes on health issues, and there will be plenty of free health screenings. Come dressed to stretch! Details: www.kjlhradio.com

May 14:
Happy Mother's Day! Support the Expo businesses that offer a wide array of products and services. There are Black owned restaurants, florists, candy makers, body spas, and designers for her new wardrobe. I could go on but you get the gist: Visit Black Business Expo Exhibitors. The 2007 list is posted at Expo time.

Los Angeles Women's Theatre Festival presents:"MELODIES IN MOTION" - The Second Annual Mother's Day Cabaret May 14 at 3 pm. Bring Mom to this special LAWTF fundraiser/musical cabaret which returns to the Madrid. Featuring some of the most outstanding female vocal talent in Los Angeles, accompanied by musicians of international reputation, the program promises to be a club-hoppin' musical journey, with songs ranging from country to jazz to toe-tapping rhythm and blues. We promise that your mother won't nag you for at least two hours!TICKETS: $30. Phil Upchurch and Sonya Maddox, who appeared at the 2005 Expo, will be performing.

May 19
Malcolm X's Birthday

May 20 and 21
Malcolm X Festival, Grounds of Audubon Middle School, King Blvd. in Los Angeles
Listen to L.A. Speaks Out the morning of the 20th and hear Torre Reese, event cofounder, and Dr. David Horne bring you up to date about what's in store for this year's festival.

In June, Denise Estelle, Expo Sales Executive, has announced her fifth annual Honor Thy Father event. In fact, she will beon that same program to tell you all about it. Why not nominate your father, husband, brother or son? If he is a good father, he should be honored! Here are the details:

The 5th Annual
"Honor Thy Father" Awards Dinner Ceremony

One of the least recognized though most important groups in our community are our fathers. Too often, we are exposed to the negative images of Black males, which in many cases overshadows the good that many Black men do.

Estelle & Associates, KIA & Associates and CORE-California are on a mission to honor good men in our community. The 5th Annual Honor Thy Father Awards Dinner is a very special awards dinner ceremony that allows the average family the opportunity to honor their father, husband, brother, uncle or male mentor on this Fathers Day, June 18, 2006 in grand style.

Our fathers provide strength, wisdom and leadership. This event is the first of it's kind to give recognition to those men who are committed to family and community. Most of the men are being publicly acknowledge for the very first time. For some this is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

This is a "must attend" event. The spirit will be moving as we hear the untold stories of of the men that are making a difference. For information you may contact: Estelle for Humanity at (323) 281-0766 or KIA and Associates at (310)769-5698. Email:estelleforhumanity@yahoo.com, Website:http://www.honorthyfather.org/
Sponsorship and Exhibitor space available.

Our Expo spokesperson, Wendy Raquel Robinson's school, Amazing Grace Conservatory is performing in Guys And Dolls beginning May 13. For details visit http://www.amazinggraceconservatory.org/

Til June 3: Leroy Hamilton, photographer of the expo images you see on this page, has a photo exhibit with artist Synthia St. James, going on at expo exhibitor Dipped in Chocolate's 626 Gallery in downtown Los Angeles. Details.

And turn around and summer's almost here. Why not sign the children up for Dr. Kwaku's Black History 4 Young People beginning June 17 at View Park Prep? Click here for details.

Posted on ExpoUpdate

We have some EXCELLENT articles in this issue from our associate editor and photojournalist Stan Thomas. He gets around:
First, his story titled: Si, Se Puede Means Fewer Opportunities for Blacks
Story and eyewitness photos by: Stan Thomas . Yes, he found himself right in the thick of things on the recent Day of Absence by Immigrants.

Stan Thomas also wrote about his evening with Colin Powell, President Bill Clinton and an evening with the Paul Ruseabagina, from Hotel Rwanda.

CYBERSTYLE by Michael T. Kilgore is back with a SPECIAL REPORT: THE LAUNCHING OF A.A.D. - ATHLETIC ARTISTIC DEVELOPMENT, HONORING AN AFRICAN - AMERICAN FASHION DESIGN ICON Check it out!

In coming issues of Expo TV, we will bring you a video interview depth look at our featured business LRServices Plumbing, or the THE PLUMBERS! The Redway Brothers, Leonard, Andrew and Owen.

KEEP WATCH FOR: Urban Idol Preliminaries to begin early July

WANTED: Designers for the next West Coast Fashion Show. This year's theme: "Fashion to the Tenth Power" Contact: Myra Wallace at (323) 290-4743.

The Theme for the 2006 Hair Show is: "Hair Explosion 2006" Stay tuned for details on the MODEL CALL for HAIR which will be held Mid-July.

ExpoUpdate Subscription Drive
We know we have a lot to offer and we want as many people who attend the Expo to be on our mailing list. Today's attendees are often tomorrow's exhibitors.

Please tell a friend to sign up to be on the mailig list for BBX 2006 at www.expoupdate.com Thank you!

Media Sponsors, please consider running out initial release so that our businesses may begin relationship with you. Email isidra@prperson.com for hi res photos and release.

A special thanks to the team behind the photoshoot held last Sunday: It was held at the home of our Graphic Designer, Rene Cross Washington with photos by Leroy Hamilton. From left: Desiree Edwards, Watts Coffee House who catered the event, Bo, who cut Malik's Hair, Yvette McNally, who represents The Redway Brothers (Those Plumbers!) Myra Wallace, expo director, Leonard Redway, Wendy Raquel Robinson, Malik Yoba, Karen Dick, hair stylist, Harold Hambrick, Expo President, in front of Harold is me, Isidra Person-Lynn, Media Director, to my right is Rene Cross Washington, Owen redway, Markiel, Makeup artist, Andrew Redway and seated in front of him is Le Chemise designer Lisa Guillory. Ms Robinson is wearing Le Chemise. We thank everyone for a wonderful time. These are just a few of the many you will be meeting in the months leading up to Expo 2006.

Isidra Person-Lynn
Editor, Expo Update
Media DirectorBBCBX

Stay tuned to www.expoupdate.com and www.blackbusinessexpo.com for the latest.

Expo Update Blog: Welcome New Exhibitors/ Fashion DVDs are Here / Farewell to Kevolution / Essence MF

2006-03-24T11:24:00.000-08:00

Expo Update Blog:
Welcome New Exhibitors/ Fashion DVDs are Here / Farewell to Kevolution

Hello All...
The Next Expo Update is coming out in April (Got stories/pix? info@blackbusinessexpo.com)

But we decided to blog you about these latest developments:
As you know, the Expo's famous $100 discount is going on now for a short time. Here's an update from Ernestine Dixon, Expo Fundraiser:

Congratulations to Message T Shirts Screen Printing of Fontana (909) 427-1979, our first new exhibitor to sign up for 2006. Also My Earring Fetish (213) 760-5263 is the first returning exhibitor to sign up. Blue Cross of California is our first corporate exhibitor to sign up. Thank you all for your support. --Ernestine Dixon edixon100@sbcglobal.net

Want to sign up and save some $$$? Call us at (323) 290-4743.

The Fashion 05 DVD's Are HERE! Produced by Studio 63 Productions, by all early reviews they are something to see. Eric Glenn and Marcus Redd photographed, video taped and edited this masterpiece as well as the DVDs for the West Coast Urban Idol competition. Those DVD's are available now too!

Call (310) 531-5039 to order yours today!

Farewell to Kevolution: One of the hits of the 2004 Expo Fashion Show was KEVOLUTION, designs by Kevin Haywood. Harold Hambrick and Myra Wallace, as well as the Studio 63 Team worked closely with this extremely talented young man, who in spite of physical handicaps, was living his dream. We are sad to announce his untimely passing at age 38, but wanted you to know the details of his services:

The viewing is on Sat. & Sun. at House of Winston, 9501 S. Vermont Ave. L.A., CA 90044 and the Funeral Service is on Monday at 1:00. Faith Inspirational, 357 E. Palmer, Compton, CA 90221. Fro any additional info, call his sister Deanna: (310) 261-1133.

Want to Exhibit at the Essence Music Festival? The Deadline is Tuesday March 28.
Click for more details! http://www.essence.com/essence/emf/marketplace.html

Please visit www.ExpoUpdate.com throughout the month and remember to add us to your addressbook so our emails can get to you!

Thank you for being with us for our journey to BBX 2006. Be sure and share the news you will reveal at the next Los Angeles Black Business Expo and Trade Show, Sept. 22-24, 2006.

Photos by Michael Riddick, Expo Chief Photographer
Top Photo From Left: Club Hall of Fame owner Alonzo Williams, the male winner of the Expo Fashion Show 2005, Myra Wallace, Expo Director and Harold Hambrick, President.

Images not showing? Visit http://www.expoupdate.blogspot.com/

Main Site: www.blackbusinessexpo.com Expo Update: www.ExpoUpdate.com

It's Already Black Love Month

2006-02-03T06:29:00.000-08:00

Expo Update Blog from the Los Angeles Black Business Expo / Sept. 22-24, 2006

From the minute the Expo ended til now, time seems to be in constant fast forward.
Myra Wallace, Expo Director (left) has already begun planning Expo 2006, with the mission of: Black Family Reunion: It's A Family Affair. Expect pleasant changes and growth this year. While it unfolds, stay tuned to Expo Update for the latest business and community information, early bird exhibitor discounts, updated registration forms and other opportunities.

Scroll below for some business news tidbits and what I call Expo Hookups. And please click the links to read what is in the latest ExpoUpdate, released today.

Next month, we hope to bring you video from the winning Urban Idol performance, spoken word by Tim Griffith, so sign up for DSL if you haven't already done so!

In this issue of Expo Update:

Photos of Expo 2005

Louisiana: What I Saw Changed Me in Many Ways by Harold Hambrick
The Expo President (left) writes about his first in-person visit to Louisiana since Hurricanes Katrina and Rita hit. Also links to info about the LaLA Festival (Feb. 11-12) and Gumbo Cook-off Feb 12

FASHION: Cyberstyle Reviews "Coolture": A Review of the West Coast Fashion Show by Mikel Kilgour
The Expo Update Fashion Correspondent tells it like he saw it. (Read it!)

PAN AFRICAN FILM FESTIVAL IS COMING UP! Jazz Zone: Roscoe Lee Owens coordinated the Pan African Art Mart at the Expo, hosted by the Jazz Zone, a TV program he hosts. Photos, too!

Also at Pan African Film Festival: Dr. Kwaku Premieres DVD February 11 at PAFF
Afrikan World Civilizations, a 90-minute historical documentary, produced by Dr. Kwaku Person-Lynn, will be screened at the Pan African Film Festival Saturday morning, February 11 at 11:20am.

Next History Class by Dr. Kwaku Begins March 3 If you have never experienced a university-level Black history class in the community, this is your chance to do so. Beginning Friday, March 3rd, 7:00pm - 9:00pm at Kaos Studios. Sign up today! www.drkwaku.com

Michael Riddick: His Eye's On You Click here to see what Michael Riddick, Expo Chief Photographer has been shooting lately: Hands to the the Homeless, an organization he created to help those on Skid Row. Or c check out Michael's Photo Album from Expo 2005

USC Coach Pete Carroll brings Christmas to youth at the Watts Coffee House Desiree Edwards, owner of the Watts Coffee House opened herself to long time customer USC Football Coach Pete Carroll for his Christmas Toy Drive.

What Are you Doing for Valentine's Day? Try these:
Let's Meet Here "Meet and Greet" at the Splash Bar.
Spend Valentine's at Derrick's Jamaican Cuisine!

More inside: Hair show photos, provided courtesy of Shawn Davison,
an associate of Michael Belcher from Dezine Group, the company responsible for producing those massive posters at the Expo

Links to Photos from Expo 2005

Expo Hookups: Wendy Raquel Robinson, Expo Spokesperson, premieres in a new movies "Something New" that opens this weekend. So Lynn, Stage Manager at the Expo, worked the Black Enterprise Women's Conference this weekend in Phoenix, Arizona--hired by Expo Technical Stage and Lighting Director Bruce Cecil. Black Enterprise is an Expo Sponsor. Nicole Chase, Expo Black Music Festival hooked up Tyrese's (left)appearance at the Expo so well, he came for free TWO DAYS! (Friday to the Youth Summit and Saturday). We are so thanksful for that--this is a Michael Riddick photo. See more of Mike's Expo Photos.

Send us your Expo Hookups! info@blackbusinessexpo.com

Business News: The Baldwin Hill Crenshaw Plaza has been sold to an African American group in Chicago. Check your Los Angeles Times for the article. KJLH reported that Stevie's on the Strip is closing it's long time Crenshaw Blvd. location and will focus instead on it's Encino store.

In Memoriam: We remember Coretta Scott King. Read www.EURWeb.com for more on her life.

It's All Inside www.ExpoUpdate.com Check us out!

Isidra Person-Lynn
Editor /Expo Update
Media Director

Email comments: info@blackbusinessexpo.com

And Now, the Expo is a Wrap

2005-11-27T19:43:00.000-08:00

The 2005 Expo was a High Energy, Completely Unscripted FunFest for Business

2005 Los Angeles Black Business Expo Features Surprise Visits from R&B Superstar Tyrese and Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger

Blog readers, so much happened, I figured you could get most of the story in our post release:

“Surprise!” was the unofficial theme of the 2005 Los Angeles Black Business Expo. Friday’s surprise found R&B heartthrob Tyrese taking to the Expo’s Youth Summit stage with friends Kurupt and High Five in tow to the delight of the 600 high school students in attendance. Tyrese returned to the Expo on Saturday to perform with Chingy, High Five and Korupt. Another surprise came when Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, using the opportunity to promote his controversial ballot initiatives, visited the Expo floor flanked by cameras, photographers and teams of Black Republicans hoisting campaign signs.

For three days, tens of thousands of Angelenos converged on the Los Angeles Convention Center for this annual mecca celebrating black business. Although the surprises were enjoyed, what was planned at the Expo was equally exciting: KCBS-TV sportscaster Jim Hill picked up his Lifetime Achievement Award bestowed on him by the Health Sports and Fitness Pavilion. Veteran broadcaster Lee Bailey received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Business of Music Industry Summit, hosted by BEM Magazine; the 2005 Urban Idol Tim Griffin was chosen for his rousing spoken word performance; and Mr. Tyrone Jones won the top male model spot while Ms. Desiree (pictured on the home page) was named top female model for the Expo’s West Coast Fashion Show. And to top it off, a half-human half-humanoid with a yellow and green Mohawk won the Fantasy Hair Show, designed by L.A. Trade Tech student Alfred Elliott.

“We had a grand time,” said Expo President Harold Hambrick. “I had my team in place and they all stepped up to create an exciting event, which helps build the infrastructure of our community by building our businesses.

Hambrick estimated that 60,000 attended the Expo over the three days, up from last year’s attendance. “We thank the professionals and the celebrities who lent their expertise and their fame to making the Expo a success this year,” Hambrick added.

The lines at the food court were non-stop, many shoppers left with stuffed bags and vendors collected leads for future business relationships. Meanwhile, upstairs, the Black Enterprise Magazine Business Institute churned out free seminar after seminar designed to enhance the entrepreneurial experience from starting your own business to enhancing your websites. Africa USA held a day-long set of seminars to introduce business owners to those in African nations willing to link businesses.

In addition, the Expo also debut new products including actress Karyn Parsons (The Fresh Prince of Bel Air) who presented her new DVD for children; Gregory Quals of Black Ti Cosmetics, who debuted his new, high-tech take on the shaving razor; and The Dezine Group exhibited copiers which make 3-D models.

“We are a coalition of business owners committed to bringing the larger body together for a boost,” said Hambrick, who kept the Expo going after a major sponsor was reorganized. “Our printers were cranking out the numerous flyers, brochures and booklets needed for the event, graphic designers were working over time, and those who provide promotional items and other materials needed by business owners were also busy. The Expo is a lot of work, but it boosts our economy. Our children love to work along side us and many have grown into professionals over the 17 years. We were even pleased to learn that a couple we had married at the Expo are now expecting so we will soon have the first Expo baby.”

May May Ali, who was promoting her children’s book on her father, I Shook Up the World in the Expo’s Health, Sports and Fitness Pavilion, quashed rumors about the dire illness of her father, legendary boxer and activist Muhammad Ali. Her visit was sponsored by PacifiCare African American Health Solutions. Ali said that an interview with sister Lailah Ali sparked rumors that May May would not appear because her father was deathly ill, which she says is far from the truth.

There was some disappointment that the gospel sensation Mary Mary did not appear as advertised. “But hey,” said one attendee, “for $5 we still got to see Lisa McClendon, Eddie Baltrip and so many others, plus experience the Expo. It’s Mary Mary who missed out.”

The dates for the next Expo are scheduled for Sept. 22-24, 2006. To keep posted on early bird discounts, sign up for the email list at http://www.expoupdate.com/ or call (323) 290-4743 year round.

Editor’s Note: GENERAL PHOTOS ARE AVAILABLE AT: http://theprperson.smugmug.com/gallery/927379/3/42420952
These photos are from the various photographers of the Los Angeles Black Business Expo: Stan Thomas, Michael Riddick, Lauren Bradley and Sabir Majeed. Please give them credit. When you download, they are at full resolution for printing. Thank you for your support of the Expo!
Or Please click links in story for specific photos.
--BBX 2005--

The Expo is Here!

2005-10-26T01:00:00.000-07:00

List to 102.3 KJLH and 100.3 The Beat to Win Tickets to the Expo!
HOMESTRETCH!

The Expo Opens Today

Oct 28-30!

IN THIS BLOG:

Some of the Many Business Owners You Should Meet at the Expo
A Tribute to Katrina Survivors--Second Liners Open the Show New Orleans Style
Jim Hill--we honor you!
We Remember Expo Family We Lost This Year
Win tickets to the Expo AND a Caribbean Fantasy Calendar by our Associate Editor! (But you gotta read carefully!)

FOR COMPLETE SCHEDULE OF EXPO 2005: Visit http://www.expoupdate.com/expoinfo.htm Tickets ONLY $5 Per Day! SEMINARS ARE FREE! Children 12 and under Free * Friday, Saturday, Sunday, 2005 * Los Angeles Convention Center DON'T MISS IT! Meet me at the Black Expo!

True story: A friend of mine asked his cousin to work in her booth at the Expo this weekend, only to be told, "no, I have to watch football."

Well, we have months of football left, but the Expo only comes once a year. This is that "thing" that black people called for..."We need some place to go to bring us all together so we can find out where black owned businesses are. Wouldn't that be a good idea?"

Well, Barbara Lindsey, founder, answered that call 17 years ago, and it's STILL a good idea. The most fun is surely to be had by attendees who simply come, park and walk through experiencing the good feeling of shopping for the holidays with people who will hire and mentor their wilderness.

But if you are a business owner, like Gail Hawkins of Arrivals (isn't her stuff beautiful? It's pictured at left) there is a deep satisfaction that comes from your hard work to be at the Expo. It's a satisfaction that says, "OK, I cannot get a job but I am making a way for myself." Maybe you are disabled, and being an entrepreneur is the only way to support youself. Maybe you have a shady past and while you paid your debt to society you have everyday debts that are mounting. They will only go away through owning your own business. Maybe you are too old or too young. No one will hire you. Our advice: get off that couch, let the millionaires play ball all they want, and get busy and hire your self. The kids have a song "Get up, get out and get something." Let the children lead you! (The owner of Black Ti Cosmetics did just that! Hear his interview in www.ExpoUpdate.com) Owner Gregory Quals (pictured) is selling his Black Ti Cosmetics (Razor bump product) product at $5--what a special Expo show price. You better get down here!

And when you get it together, please bring your business to the Expo. Behind the scenes it is fascinating to watch the show take shape. And the only way in to the (rather large) inner circle, literally, is through working shoulder to shoulder with the good people who make it all happen. That's why the Networking Reception was so much fun. We are like a fraternity or sorority and Expo is our hazing! (See Michael Riddick's pictures if you missed it!)

As a business owner, it comes in very handy to know other businesses first hand. We are always putting on events, so to get a reasonable quote from a caterer, like Derrick Angus, Derrick's Jamaican, you can now call a friend because -- through the efforts of the Expo-- you helped them with their restaurant grand opening. Having a "friend in the business" is such a comfort, I cannot tell you--you have to experience this. DJ's, plumbers, tax people, trophy makers, party rental people, party planners--we have used them all and we have found them first at the Expo. We used to have to make an effort to use exhibitors so we could practice what we preach, but these businesses have grown so much over the years, they are now up to speed technologically, and are just as good as any one found on Wilshire. And after 17 years, your Rolodex gets quite resourceful. And the price is right!

Like our sponsor OneUnited Bank says "And you can take that to the Bank."

THE REAL STARS OF THE SHOW
By now, we've told you about the Celebrities coming, the Fashion Show, Urban Idol, GospeLive and the Business Institute. Now we want to tell you more about the true stars of the show. Let us introduce you to some more business owners you might find at the Expo.

Stars of the Show:Our Businesses!
Meet a number of scrappy business owners you will find at the Expo:

What year did the Expo first move to the Convention Center? Answer to win.

Stan Thomas, producer of Caribbean Fantasy, a wall calendar for 2006, is willing to give you a copy of this beautifully photographed calendar-plus a family four-pack of expo tickets-- if you are one of the first ten to answer correctly. It so happens to be created by our associate editor. Come inside to read more: www.expoupdate.com

B. Chic, is owned by Bridget Willis. She's only 26. Win a family fourpack of expo tickets and Stan's calendar by telling us-- what does she call her style?

Jonathan Alexander owns http://www.tapitfame.com/, a place where new artists can showcase their work and not go broke doing it. He is offerning his product to the winner of the Urban Idol contest. Read more about him inside www.expoupdate.com

Lots of thanks to go 'round: Friday Opens with a live broadcast by Cliff Winston and the Home Team and KTLA Channel 5's Gayle Anderson has an exciting show in store, all live from the Convention Center. Thanks to Jacquie Stephens, Greg Johnson, Marc Gaspard, Aundrae Russell, shoot the ENTIRE STAFF right up to Karen Slade and Stevie Wonder. Some hard working people.

The Beat (KKBT) will be broadcasting on Saturday at their space. Thanks to Janice Salgado and Ron Turner and staff.

Sleep deprived but happily advancing toward the Convention Center, the irony of what we just experienced a month ago does not escape us. We watch the devastation of the Katrina victims huddle in their convention center in New Orleans, and it was not a pretty sight. Now we have the Expo which will help distance us from those images. We outta come just for that reason.

We will open the show with the largest New Orleans style Second Line tribute to these people, a lot of them have relocated to this state. We want everyone to come and make this the largest second Line ever to open the show. Because there by the grace of God...go us all. Expo Katrina Fund Update.

When You See Expo President Harold Hambrick with that bright colored umbrella, and they strike up the band, blow the whistles and start dancing, you know, BBX 2005 is on and what a weekend we have in store! For full details visit Expo at a Glance or call (323) 281-EXPO.

Thank you for reading our blogs as we prepare for the Expo. We hope you enjoyed them.

Reminder: The Expo is only $5 a day. Please come and bring the children so they can see the images of what is rarely portrayed: Black people working together. It's food for their souls.

I know, because my sons have worked at the Expo for 12 years and this year one is back to exhibit for the second year (Slap Media Booth 951) and the other, So Lynn (at left) is invaluable as a manager of the stage.

Isidra Person-Lynn
Editor
Expo Update

PS: Check out our Expo program guide designed by Rene Cross Washington. It's a keepsake with the list of all the businessowners in it and their phone and booth numbers. By next Expo we hope yours is dog eared! We will post the 2005 list the day after the Expo! Good job, Rene! And the great guys at L.A. Business Printing, we thank you! Eric Johnson's business is an Expo family business that we recommend highly!

In the book is a page where we remember five people who made the Expo what it is: Emma Pullen, Quentin Drew, Ronnie Mathis, Barbara Richardson and Josef Stephenson. We miss them all!

And have you seen the Los Angeles Sentinel last week? We really appreciate them for dedicating so much ink to letting you know the Expo is coming. Black media is the only way we can let you know what's happening. This Thursday, look for another special section in the Sentinel--Thank you Danny Jr., Brenda, Kathy, Rene, Chris Ken and staff.

We thank Robert Bush at the Wave for printing the Wave Expo guide, and we thank Natalie Cole and crew at Our Weekly and Willa Robinson and staff at the LA Watts Times for their support. Lee Bailey (who is being honored too) and EUR Web have let the world know about us, and Gayle Corn from The Loop Online, and Save the Date (Have you seen Sarah's magazine? Check it out, it's slick) have been invlauable. And Pace News, thanks for the front page story on Jim Hill. Wow! Harold and I have spoken with Jim Hill and he is looking forward to being with us this Friday at 11AM. Tell your couch potatoes that we hold the Expo on Friday JUST FOR THEM! And they would love to meet Jim Hill in the flesh! lol

On behalf of all of us, we welcome you to come to the Los Angeles Black Business Expo. Your purchase of a $5 goes a long way to ensuring we grow and keep it coming to you! Come on and get your ticket--You can't afford to miss it!

Harold Hambrick, President
Myra Wallace, Expo Director
Ernestine Dixon, Account Executive
Ruth Williams, Office Manager
Denise Estelle, Sales Representative
LaSandra Stratton, Africa-USA, Business Institute
Davide Stennett, Fashion Show Director
Doris Mosely, Hair Show Director
Nicole Chase, Youth Summit Director
So Lynn, Stage Assistant
Veronica Shealy, Food Court
Cornelius and Eleanor Lee, GospeLive
Denise Estelle, Sales Rep
Sharon Edwards, Health Pavilion
Lonzo Williams, Urban Idol,
Alberta McCoy, Kidsworld
Robbie Jones, Volunteer Coordinator
Isidra Person-Lynn, Media Director, ExpoUpdate Editor
Stan Thomas, Expo Update Associate Editor
Susette Fisher, Writer
Michael Riddick, Photographer
Studio 63, Videography
Sabir Majeed, Lauren Bradley: Photographers
Rene Cross Washington, Graphic Design

Barbara Lindsey, Founder
Wendy Raquel Robinson, Celebrity Spokesperson
Karyn Parsons, Interim Celebrity Spokesperson
and the Spook who is Still Sitting by the Door

Alliance Partners:
Los Angeles Urban League,
Recycling Black Dollars,
West L.A. College,
Black Business Association
Norman Lewis Limosine

Notables who will be at the Expo:
Jim Hill (award/Friday)
Kel Mitchell, Host Dance 360 Exhibitor/Performer
Black Enterprise Editor Alfred Edmunds, Jr./ Sponsor, Special Forum Friday at 1:30 PM
Karyn Parsons, Actress, Exhibitor
Tommy Ford, Reeding his childrens books, signing autographs at Dezine GroupBooth
Mother Love, Health Pavilion
A.J. Johnson, HealthPavilion
Stevie Wonder (award), Black Music dfestival (Saturday)
Laker Girls, Comerica, 2-4 PM Saturday
Ali "Ollie" Woodson (Temptations) West Coast Black Music Festial (Saturday)
Gospel: Sunday Main Stage 1-6 PM
Mary Mary
Lisa McClendon
Darwin Hobbs
Eddie Baltrip

FOR COMPLETE EXPO INFORMATION: www.expoupdate.com

Meet me at the Black Expo?

15 Days til Expo 2005

2005-10-13T10:32:00.000-07:00

From www.ExpoUpdate.com

Somehow, this Expo is different. There is a new energy, better businesses, more involved sponsors, better theme areas. Better media support. We've got a story about it. Wanna hear it? Here it goes:

BETTER EVENTS:

West Coast GospeLive Has an Exciting Lineup! Thanks to KJLH and Greg Johnson and Cornelius and Eleanor Lee we have Mary Mary, Darwin Hobbs, Lisa McClendon, and a whole lot more. See the lineup!

Urban Idol Finalists: Here is where you will find out who has been chosen to compete Friday Oct. 29 at the 2nd Annual West Coast Urban Idol Competition. Click on the name to see the photos by Michael Riddick.

Black Enterprise Magazine Business Institute: First of all the editor is coming. Need we say more? Alfred Edmunds, Jr. will be featured in a special seminar on Friday about business and building wealth. Read the schedule.

TECHIES--This one is for you: This will be a web designers reunion and William Byers, Explorer Studios will be teaching you tips and trips about how to enhance your website with video and audio. Check out how he does it on his site with High Def. He is my tech guru for Expo TV...come get this free lesson, then take it back and have fun with your site!

Africa USA Conference and Pavilion: LaSandra Stratton has been working over time to bring you the most exciting Africa USA since it's inception. It's time to start doing business with Africa. Find out more.

Better Businesses

We have always had talent in the African community. Now we are interlacing business skills with that talent, and the result is creative businesses that bring the best of the world to you.

We are proud of all of our businesses, but these are just some of the ones you should be sure to look out for: such as Karyn Parsons, (Hillary/Fresh Prince). She will be debuting her new Childrens DVD "The Journey of Henry Box Brown" narrated by Alfre Woodard at the expo. Sneak Preview

Made in Africa: Dr. Bill Releford's new clothing line called Made in Africa will feature "Butta" a line of unmentionables --at the Expo's wildly popular fashion show "West Coast Fashion Show" on Saturday, Oct. 29 at the expo. Just just have to touch it and you know why he calls it BUTTA--Bringing you the treasures of Africa. He said it is his mission to flip the script on the cotton ball--what once enslaved us can now free us. See the rest of the participants/designers.

Watts Coffee House is celebrating it's 10th year anniversary--born at the Expo. In fact we are so proud of all of our businesses in the food court. They provide so much catering and good food all year round that we cannot wait to get to the food court this year. Shabazz has found catering so lucrative they rarely open the store anymore. Derrick's Jamaican Cuisine is becoming the favorite for birthdays and events. Dulan's place is available for weddings and other events...and we welcome Messob, an Ethiopian Restaurant, to the Food Court. Whether you work in corporate America or just find yourself planning events, start with these businesses because they are seasoned with experience about how to make your event a success. Visit the food court.

Dipped in Chocolate L.A. (dippedinchocolatela.com) Jackie Pratt and Tyree McLynn took the old favorite -- chocolate--and honed in on the new craze -- chocolate fountains-- to make their mark in the chocolate fountain industry.

Arrivals: Co-owner Gail Hawkins who was featured in our ad campaign this year has one of the most fun stores you will want to browse through at 4444 Slauson Avenue at Overhill. We thank her for allowing us to include her in this year's campaign.

A MESSAGE FROM OUR SPONSORS: Tastin' Black Culture Food Court Sponsor Lawry's is having a special event in the morning (Friday Oct 14) at the Food For Less in Inglewood-- 3200 W. Century Blvd. at the corner of Crenshaw. KJLH will be broadcasting live the Lawry's Good Food Demonstration Tour. The Nutrition Network, Freshman 101, KJLH and the Expo have teamed up to sample foods prepared for you- with a healthy twist- by nutritionists and chefs from 6am 10am. Come on out and greet Cliff Winston and the Home Team and win tickets to the expo, other prizes and raffles. If you miss that, there will be another one every Friday til the Expo. The next one will be Friday Oct. 21st at the Ralph's in the Ladera Center.

Superior Market: While many in the area were saddened to see 32nd Street Market close, we were ecstatic to learn that Superior Market was the store chosen to carry on the legacy of fresh and inexpensive produce, fresh meats, a new bakery and a whole lot more in the USC area. Superior Market is NOW OPEN (they worked like Energizer bunnies) at 32nd Street Market, plus they took over the old Ralph's location at Imperial and Crenshaw as well. If the bakery there is as good as the one on Western, YOU GOTTA TRY IT!

YOU SHOULD BE AT THE EXPO! It is not too late to get an exhibit space at the Expo. Grab those young people around you and enlist them in your business army. They would LOVE to put on your company T-shirt and help you introduce your business to the thousands that are coming to the Expo. It'll be one of the best boosts you will have all year. The HOLIDAYS are coming! Don't let the holiday shoppers miss out on what you have to offer! Call the office today to get your booth! (323) 290-4743. Busy signal? Go to www.ExpoUpdate.com, download the exhibitor kit and fax back the form to Fax: (323) 290-1750. Then we will call you!

As an exhibitor or sponsor, you get to attend the exciting Exhibitor/Sponsor Networking Reception Tonight (Oct 13). So get your booth today! It will be so much fun seeing all the old friends and meeting the new businesses before it's time to roll up our sleeves and work at the Expo.

RADIO COMMERCIALS: As you listen to our Media Sponsors, KJLH and The Beat (KKBT) you will hear our new commercial featuring our Celebrity Spokesperson Wendy Raquel Robinson produced by Mike Mann and Maurice Kitchen. To hear them click here.

KJLH: We had a ball last Saturday on L.A. Speaks Out. Jacquie Stephens allowed us the entire hour to meet business owners and talk about the Events. And for the first time Cliff Winston and the Home Team will broadcast live from the Expo Oct. 28, 6-10 AM.

The Beat: In fact, you can hear Harold and Myra on The Beat's Community Affairs Program with the Poetess this Sunday morning on KKBT from 7-9 AM.

There is a lot going on, but we gotta go get dolled up for the Expo Reception Tonight. Hope to see you there!

Isidra Person-Lynn
Expo Media Director

PS: This is the edited version. We apologize for any errors previously sent. In this email, we will send free tickets to the first five people who can point out a legitimate typo in this email--(we are sure there are some more!) Email info@blackbusinessexpo.com with your name and mailing address in case you are in that number!

5 Weeks Out: So Much to Do, So Little Time / LAST WORKSHOP TONIGHT!

2005-09-22T07:34:00.000-07:00

When you see this banner, you know you are in the right place!
TONIGHT: September 22, 2005 - Final Exhibitor Workshop--Everything You Wanted to Know about Exhibiting at the Expo, Urban League Worksource Center, 2900 Crenshaw Blvd. Los Angeles, Ca Refreshments Bring a friend and sign up tonight!
Scroll below to click link to Vendor Videos from the first workshop.

New stories we have posted at www.ExpoUpdate.com

Expo Hurricane Katrina Relief Effort Update -- List of Donors to Date
Business Profiles: Dipped in Chocolate L.A., Superior Carpet
Urban Idol Photos (Photos by Michael Riddick, Net. Profiles, including last (Wednesday) night photos. 30 in all.)
EXPO TV
Celebrity Exhibitor: Karyn Parsons to Exhibit her New Children's DVD at Expo
Expo TV: Vendor Videos
EXPO TV: Model Call featuring photos by Michael Riddick (Need high speed to view)
CHECK THE WEBSITE--there are more dates, photos, videos and news we upload all the time

Greetings, all!
In the midst of planning a huge Expo for three Days at the Los Angeles Convention Center, Katrina (and now Rita) blew in, which makes promoting the show somewhat difficult, and seem so secondary to the lessons of life and survival we have just witnessed. Because we are so closely aligned with New Orleans and all things from Louisiana (so many people, business owners are from New Orleans --our Expo President is from Sliddell) you can imagine that this hurricane really hit close to home. That is why we established our own relief fund. We have just published our list of donors. We thank you all soooooo much for your support. Each time we get to $1000 we send it down to our on the ground person Kathe Hambrick, (Expo Exhibitor and sister of Harold Hambrick, our president. Check out the list of sponsors on our Katrina page.

Due, in part, to the stellar work she is doing for evacuees in Louisiana, Kathe was unable to go to New York and receive the award for the River Road Museum being one of the nation's top 10 African American museums, so Harold flew there in her stead. What an honor by American Legacy Magazine! Congratulations for excellence! If you are ever in Louisiana, make it a point to check them out.

We recently held our Model Call and our last open West Coast Urban Idol Competition (both at Club Hall of Fame, Hollywood Park) this past Wednesday. Congratulations to all of the contestants who made it to the next rounds. Now the real work begins. You can find out who won at the Expo, Oct. 28-30, 2005. Until then, check out Davide Stennett, Fashion Director, and see some of the Model Call contestants by visiting our Fashion page.

As if she did not have enough to do, Doris Mosely, our Fantasy Hair Show Director, staged a hair and style-thon with KJLH. Not only did she raise money, her team provided free services for women from the Dream Center, brought in style by Norman Lewis Limo's Bus service. Hats off to Brenda Marsh Mitchell at the Brotherhood Crusade/ Mothers in Action / The Los Angeles Sentinel. Not only did she get KJLH and The Beat to come together, she also helped evacuees find jobs, get their social security cards back and much more. The effort raised tons of goods and money. By the way, you can still enter the Hair Show and the Client of the Year competitions. (Photo at left: A rare opportunity. I got the Expo Radio Media Sponsors The Beat and KJLH to take a photo together--that's Johnny Morris, engineer, KJLH and The Poetess, from the Beat. By the way, if you see the resemblance, they are father and daughter.)

And now we await Hurricane Rita. It seems this storm season just gets bigger. My prayers are with the Texans and folks from Louisiana.

Here are some thoughts from Associate Editor Stan Thomas:

"Last week, I ran across a story in the 'zine Slate. One of the links led to Mark Crispin Miller's blog. After reading virtually every post in his blog from last week and this week, I became so angry that I wanted to walk of the job I was on to collect my thoughts. It is unconscionable what's going on down there.
Take the time to read through the blog. I guarantee you two things will happen: 1) you will be furious; 2) you'll wonder how things like this are allowed to happen. I can answer that last one: because the nation will not stand up to stop it."

Thanks, Stan. For everybody else, PLEASE save the date: October 13, 2005 Sponsor/Exhibitors EXPO GALA (For registered Expo exhibitors only!) Check your mail for your invitation or call (323) 290-4743.

Hope to catch some of you on video tonight at the Expo Workshop. Come on out! (Never know who will show up on Expo TV next!)

Isidra Person-Lynn
Media Director
Expo Webmistress

PS: Please forward to a friend. And let us know what special things you are doing at the Expo!

We're Rollin' Now: Katrina Thoughts

2005-09-07T22:45:00.000-07:00

First and foremost: THIS WEEKEND IS THE Expo's MODEL CALL. It's Saturday Sept 10,10-am - 2 PM at Hollywood Park (Century and Prairie in Inglewood), 5th floor. This event officially kicks off the West Coast Fashion Show's Coolture Top Model Search. Many models will be chosen but only one will be crowned Top Model at the October 29, 2005 West Coast Fashion Show at the Expo at the L.A. Convention Center. The top male and female models will receive over $4000 in cash and prizes. You must bring photo and Zed card, or at least your contact information and be ready to walk at the audition.

I always enjoy this event because I love people watching and there are sooooooooo many beautiful people to see. And the brothers! But I digress. Media is welcome to cover, but this is for models only. No experience needed. Davide Stennett, director will train you and you will get no better teaching anywhere!

Designers interested in a stunning showcase for your work, please contact WCFS director Myra Wallace at the expo office (323) 290-4743. For more, visit this link!

We are so proud of our EXPO Businesses. If you blink you might miss something, because things are happening so fast. Since we started the Expo's Katrina Relief Drive, look what your colleagues are doing: If you haven't yet: go here for details.

Expo businesses contributed, and we had raised almost a grand in 2 days.
Our media partner KJLH launched its KJLH Caravan of Love, and 5 trucks are already in Texas loaded with supplies, with more loading up fast. Keep listening for details.
Norwood Clark, Uncle Darrow's Cajun Creole Eatery, whose Mom was out of touch for days (I think he now know her whereabouts) is driving on one of those trucks
The Hair and Beauty Industry led by Doris Mosely--who is doing our Fantasy Hair Show at the Expo, is pitching in with a Cut and Styleathon where they will be doing heads from 9 AM Sunday AM til 6PM Monday Evening. Only $30 and ALL proceeds will go to the Survivors.
On Monday Norman Lewis Limousine is bringing in many of those recent evacuees to have their hair done. They are the ones staying at the Dream Center and we KNOW they will be happy to have their hair cut and their heads whipped into shape and see Leimert Park and some folks that look like home. Too bad many of the businesses will be closed Monday so they will not get the full flavor.
Torre Reese, FAMLI, and many others are organizing a concert this Saturday in Leimert Park: "New Orleans: Our People, Our Responsibility," a benefit concert to raise money to benefit families in the Katrina earthquake ravaged zone welcomes artists LA Drum Ensemble, Dwight Trible, Wadada, and others Greg Walker on Saturday, September 10, 2005 12:00 Noon - 6:00 P.M. in Leimert Park Arts Village, near Crenshaw Boulevard & Vernon Avenue.
West Angeles Church is so overwhelmed by donations they put out a call for more trucks and boxes and packing supplies.
L.A. Speaks Out: This Saturday Jacquie Stephens will be sharing the sounds of her trip with her guest Congresswoman Maxine Waters--they have a different view you haven't heard before.
The sister of Harold Hambrick, Expo President, Kathe Hambrick was on Good Morning America. Kathe is our Katrina Relief Fund Coordinator on the ground in Louisiana. She brings the River Road Museum to the Expo every year

IN OTHER NEWS: Have you heard of the AM Talk station...1150 AM? That station is decidedly left of the Larry Elder and the Rush Limbaugh's and they have been hard hitting on the Katrina debacle. Still just a few black announcers but it's a wonder to listen to.

Speaking of radio, remember the Quiet Storm days of radio? Well my former supervisor at KACE, Lawrence Tanter AKA "L.T" held a one on one talk last week at the Inglewood Public Library. He is currently at the Wave, still doing the Laker announcing and has a TV show with James Worthy and others on KCAL. He talked about all things radio and Lakers and was really jazzed about Kareem coming to be one of the coaches of the Lakers this year.

Photo: That's me, Isidra Person-Lynn, your blog host and L.T.--Lawrence Tanter.

Yeah, I slipped in some non-Expo news...because we here at the Expo are everywhere doing many things. Now, go forward this email to that friend of yours who should be a model. Tell them that their career can start Saturday!

Sign up for the Expo today. This year will be the best ever!

Isidra Person-Lynn, (email me!)

Your Faithful Blog Editor

As We Prepare for the Expo, Katrina is on Our Minds

2005-09-04T15:15:00.000-07:00

OK...things are happening so fast we are adding a blog to our website so that we can update you on the latest.

As you know we are consumed with Hurricane Katrina. The waves that knocked out an entire historical city generated larger waves of information that have drowned us all with information and has us paralyzed with fear and worry.

How is my family?
Could it happen to us?
What can I do to help?

Helping is one way. Have an extra room? Bring a evacuated family or an individual (student?) into your home. Have some extra cash? Donate to any of the plethora of fundraisers that have dropped up. Harold Hambrick, our native Louisianan and President has family in all the places we have seen on the news this week. He set up the Black Business Expo/Katrina fund. We hope our businesses will support him because his daughter, sister, brothers and many family members are there.

If you have extra supplies on hand, please bring diapers and other personal supplies and give them to Greg Johnson for the KJLH Caravan of Love. The Details are posted on: http://www.expoupdate.com/Katrina.htm