Miss Newark/ Miss Essex County Pageants - 2/25/12 - Renaissance Hotel

For Immediate release:


On Saturday February 25th, the Miss Newark Pageant will hold it's 4th annual CROWNING OF THE QUEEN Pageant Ceremony to be held at the Renaissance Hotel in Elizabeth, NJ. This event will directly impact over 75 families. The Miss Newark Pageant is a true scholarship program and awards are based on scholastic achievement, public speaking, volunteerism and individuality. The Miss Newark Pageant has awarded over $10,000 in cash and tuition to deserving young ladies and on February 25th will award over $5000 in scholarships to approximately 10 deserving college bound young women.  

The Miss Newark Pageant is a philanthropic and social organization with a focus on bringing sweeping changes to the immediate community. Their core curriculum, involves teaching youngsters leadership, teamwork, life-skill development, and service to the community through deep experimental community learning.

This year, the Miss Newark Pageant has become a part of the Miss Northern USA Pageant System. As a result,  a double crowning ceremony will take place: Miss Newark & Miss Essex County. Winners of the Miss Newark & Miss Essex County title will have the opportunity to go to the National Pageant to compete for the title of Miss Northern USA and WIN up to $10,000 in scholarships and prizes. 

WHO: Miss Newark Pageant

WHAT: The Crowning of Miss Newark/ Miss Essex County

WHEN: February 25, 2012 - 9am-5pm (Main Show 2-5pm)

WHERE: Renaissance Hotel (Jr. Ballroom) 1000 Spring Street Elizabeth, NJ (Across From Newark Airport)

WHY: To support young women financially & academically while providing them with the necessary confidence and life skills that they will need in order to become successful productive citizens.

To purchase tickets visit: http://newarkessexpageants.eventbrite.com/

For more information, contact Cathy Payne (Pageant Director) at (973) 797-9514.

www.missnewark.org

www.missnorthernusa.com

How to start a business in a recession

Starting a business during a recession might sound crazy!......, but in reality, a slow economy can be an excellent time to launch a successful operation. 


Many existing companies are going out of business or looking for partnerships, which means a savvy business person can get into the market at a lower cost. If you have an idea that is fresh & new that may mean an extra source of income for you, so be brave and challenge the opportunity.

• 1
  Plan. Write out a business plan. It maps out how you intend to run your operation and when you expect to realize profit. The business plan is a necessary document.

2
         Research the area in which you plan to launch your business, and incorporate your findings into                your business plan. Is the need for your type of business growing or slowing? Who are your           
         competitors? Are they faring well or falling by the wayside? What will you do differently from them to          compete in a slow economy?

• 3
  Develop a marketing plan. Much like a business plan, a marketing plan will help you identify your target demographic. Are the prospective people in your target market continuing to buy the product or service you plan to offer, or are they looking for less expensive alternatives? Can you offer something different from your competition? Consumers will spend money in a recession as long as they can see value in their purchases. Consider ways to promote your product or service that shows customers how they can save time or money or do things for themselves.
• 4
  Secure all necessary business licenses. This can be accomplished through your state secretary of state's office or your local business licensing bureau.
• 5
  Select a location for your business. In this economy, getting an office may be expensive. Think about shared office space or places that rent hourly. A great hourly/ monthly studio rental facility that does this is Majesty Loft www.majestyloft.com. Their rates start at $10/hr. you'll need the extra money to fall back on.
• 7
  Purchase supplies, equipment and inventory for your business. Before paying retail price for new items, look at similar businesses that are downsizing or going out of business because of the recession and consider the benefits of buying out their stock.
• 8
  Hire and train interns from your local college and open for business. Make customer service a major priority and continually watch for trends in your industry that might signal a downward economic trajectory for your business. Revisit your business and marketing plans on a regular basis to keep you on track and recession-proof.

By Cathy Payne

References: Ehow.com

The Miss Newark Pageant Expansion

The Miss Newark Pageant Proudly announces the Launch of their newest expansion: The Miss Northern USA Pageant. With this expansion comes partnerships with distinguished individuals and plans for community enrichment. Under the Miss Northern USA umbrella, pageants will be held in surrounding cities and winners chosen. On the national level young ladies have the opportunity to win a cash scholarship up to $10,000. This pageant will continue to uphold Miss Newark Pageant's tradition of building self esteem in young women. In effort to do this effectively, the pageant will be offered to girls ages 5 through women ages 24. If you know a young lady between the ages of 5-24, please suggest to her/ her parents this wonderful opportunity of obtaining monies for college. Interest Meetings happening NOW!

X Factor Auditions

April 14, 2011 marked the day that Simon Cowell's X Factor auditions took place in the great city of Newark, NJ. At 6am thousands of would be famous hopefuls waited on line outside of the Prudential Center to get a chance at stardom! At 9am the doors opened and everyone billowed inside the arena. As the day progressed friendships were made and promises from the angels kept. During the lengthy wait, several auditioners created a stage of entertainment strictly for themselves. Hundreds joined in... in a full fledge make shift multi-lead concert. Musicians with instruments joined in and circled the arena singing songs in unison while rotating the lead singer.  Anyone standing within close proximity of the Prudential Center could clearly hear and feel the passion inside. INSPIRATION was evident, obvious and in the air.

This was a BIG Event...I give it 6 smiles :) :) :) :) :) :)

HOST YOUR NEXT EVENT AT MAJESTY

www.majesty.com

Watch Newark X-Factor Snippets by clicking Here

Networking Event...The 4th Annual Institute for Entreprenuerial Leadership (IFEL) Business Plan Competition & Awards

  Meet.Connect.Do business.Succeed...

Those were the words on the front of the conference booklet ringing a bell to everyone who eyed them. This IFEL event was the ultimate networking event for anyone who was in the business of marketing anything. Speakers offered true words of wisdom that one could take and use effectively either hands or inspirationally. It truly was a learning experience.

  The event, held at NJIT in Newark,  offered specialized breakout sessions targeted towards all types of business owners/ individuals. There was something for everyone. A seminar for women entrepreneurs was in one room, a seminar for non profits was in another and one for chefs was offered as well. It was also impressive to see an "Artist as a livelihood" workshop offered for individuals who were in the arts and entertainment field.

  After the breakout sessions, lunch was served which was exciting to actually SEE. PASTA cooked and prepared before your very eyes. There was also a long table of tasty, lip smacking  items in an open buffet........

Moments later... the business plan competition began. Participating business owners presented the crowd with a 2 minute speech of their business plan. The winner of this award went to Fohawx (a kids helmet accessory company).

  Mayor Cory A Booker was present and was given an honorary Doctorate Degree from the school. He told a funny tale about his grandfather who was an entrepreneur in every sense of the word. Booker later went on to shout encouraging words to the audience of entrepreneurs...Pivotal Booker quotes from his speech:

• No matter how bad the day, you can still be optimistic.
• Have the sense where everything is possible.
• You have got to take risks in life.
• So many of us are frozen by fear, that we are frozen and we underestimate courage.
• When times get hard and you run out of ground to stand on, either you will find solid ground or the universe will send you people who will teach you how to fly.
• Your Dreams are whispers from angels.
• Get Up! Stand Up! Don't be small in a world where giants are needed.

Booker's speech was truly remarkable and one of the best ever heard.

   The IFEL Event was one that was truly unique and offered a lot of information valuable to aspiring and established entrepreneurs. For next years IFEL Business Plan Competition and awards or for future IFEL events visit http://ifelnj.org/

I give this event 5 smiles :) :) :) :) :)

Business owners...get business cards $60 for 1,000, $125 for 2,500 full color, custom design for your business including LOGO!!!

www.printmomma.com

201.779.8485

The 23rd Annual Evening of the Stars hosted by the Boys & Girls Club

  On March 31st, the 23rd annual Evening of the Stars event (hosted by the Boys & Girls Club of Newark) was held. It was a fancy rendition of the type of fine galas that one would only see on T.V. Glimpses of the fancy decor could be seen on the escalator ride up to the Main Concourse. Many individuals were privileged and honored to be in attendance at such an event where tickets donations were $500 per person. For some, it was their first time stepping into the Prudential Center. For others it was a second home. Imaginative desserts & fine finger foods were served in the "Fire Lounge" which overlooked the arena. Photos of Boys & Girls club Members flashed across the LED sports arena screen and on widescreen TV's throughout the lounge. This indeed was a night to remember and surroundings... fit for a STAR!

  The Evening of the Stars Event was to celebrate the Boys & Girls Club 73rd year of service to children & families in the city of Newark. Salma Muro (CEO) thanked and made mention of the commitment of leaders from the corporate world, non-profits and government and stated that through those partnerships, a powerful contribution to the economic development & recovery efforts in Newark had been made.

  Honorary Chairs included Governor Chris Christie and Lori Grifa. Mayor Cory Booker received the William "Jazz" Jones Brightest Star award. The award for caring went to Alfred Koeppe (CEO of Newark Alliance). The youth of the year award went to Jonathan Colon and his cousin Crystal Torres was the runner up. They both were members of the Boys & Girls club for 12 years.

  The boys and girls club has been a safe haven for kids and teens and a structure of support for them for many years.  The community should never forget the efforts of this great club and should always stand tall and lend a helping hand when necessary. Volunteers and donations are always needed. Visit: http://bgcn.org/

I give this event 5 smiles :) :) :) :) :)



Visit the Miss Newark Pageant at:
http://www.missnewark.org/

Middy Murdock - The Forum Pt 2

Newark, NJ - April 7th 2011 - Middy Murdock's the Bricks Comic Book Debut (which was held during Hip Hop Education Week) was a success. Over 70 people poured in and filled up the event venue Majesty Loft in Newark, NJ. Murdock officially released and distributed copies of his brand new comic book "The Bricks" which focuses on real life events and issues that happen in the streets of Newark, NJ. The event was very exciting and informative. Musical performances were followed by Hip Hop Ambassador Orikl who performed several songs from his newly received album "The Mission".

Middy Murdock Author of "The Bricks"

A fan viewing "The Bricks" Comic Book

The Guests

I give this event 5 smiles :) :) :) :) :)



Keep Up with Middy Murdock:

Website	http://www.superbgrafikz.webs.com/
Email	ramidbrown@live.com
Facebook	facebook.com/ramid.muhammad

 
Special Thanks to Middy Murdock, Karen & Orikl.


BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT at MAJESTY
www.majestyloft.com

Middy Murdock "The Bricks" Debut Celebration This Thursday!

Newark native Middy Murdock is proud to announce the debut of The Bricks Comic Book on Thursday April 7^th at Majesty Loft for Hip Hop Education Week.  Focusing on issues that affect youngsters, this event is designed to maximize FUN, education and entertainment for all ages.

The Author and Creator of The Bricks comic book, Middy Murdock,  is a 35 year old multi-talented artist, writer, hip hop entertainer, graphic artist and clothing designer born and raised in Newark NJ from the central ward. The bricks comic book consists of many stories and issues based on everyday life events that affect the Newark population as well as and how they endure struggles and overcome them through positive influences and proper education. The purpose of this book is to reach out to young readers to show them that no matter where you come from or what you go through, you can achieve if you believe. The book also gives it’s readers a sense of identity because they can relate to events that take place in the stories.  The ultimate goal is to turn the comic book into a cartoon and give the world a glimpse into the lives of the citizens of Newark NJ from the eyes of our youth and adults from all aspects.

COMMENTS:

 “Very  interesting.” – Mayor Cory A. Booker

WHAT: Middy Murdock’s debut of his comic book “Brick City”  


WHO: Illustrator Middy Murdock with entertainment by Hip Hop Ambassador Orikl 

WHERE: Majesty Loft 194 Market Street 3^rd Floor Newark, NJ 07102 (1 Block from Prudential Center between Broad Street & Mulberry Street)

WHEN: Thursday April 7, 2011 (7-11pm)

BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT at MAJESTY
www.majestyloft.com

Women's History Month Celebration Hosted By Donald M. Payne Jr.

On Monday March 28th Council President Donald M. Payne Jr. hosted a Women's Day celebration held at the City Hall Municipal Council Chambers in Newark, NJ.  I was awed to enter the chambers. As I took my seat, I noticed that the council member’s names tags were richly made & precisely arranged to delegate council seating.  The Council Members did not sit in their specified assembly chairs, (that I assume they use during council meetings) however, they sat amongst the crowd. …And the crowd was abundant! Late comers soon became standing onlookers. Women & men, young and old were in attendance.

The purpose of Council President’s Women’s day celebration was to honor outstanding women in the community. Each council member chose a woman that would receive an honorary award. Much wisdom was in the air and much inspiration absorbed.  All of the women in the room were called “masterpieces” because of their ongoing process of creating strong legacies of true leadership. Nancy Zak, who received an award, stated that “So many people in this room make this city a better place.” I personally felt that this was true due to so many movers and changers that were present. Additional honorees included NJ State Senator Teresa Ruiz, Ms. Olga Jiminez Wagenheim, Hon. Sheila Y. Oliver , Ms. Maritza Gutierrez , Ms. Towanda McEachern,  Ms. Terry Fields , Ms. Digna Dubon and Ms. Joyce Carter.

Council President Payne and the Municipal Council surprised Councilwoman Crump and presented her with an honorary award. Crump spoke true wisdom in her speech and mentioned things like “Your living should not be in vain.”,  “Often times we have to take responsibility and stand in front.” & “When you are faced with a challenge, if it is to be it’s up to me.” Ms. Olga Jiminez Wagenheim  blessed the audience with the three characteristics of a leader which to her are: vision, hard work and humility. Towanda McEachern, founder of Supporting our Sisters closed out the evening with her epiphany by stating “There are two important days of your life. The day you were born and the day you know why. Someone has been waiting their whole life for you!”

Attending this event was exhilarating. It made the audience feel alive! The event was followed by dessert, which consisted of mouthwatering pastries coupled with a mini networking mixer of which officials such as Congressman Donald Payne Sr. and reputable City Hall Staff were in the mix. Guests ate, smiled and talked the evening away.

Council President Donald M. Payne Jr.

Senator Teresa Ruiz & Council President Donald M. Payne Jr.

Acting/ modeling Classes with Miss Newark

Focusing on building self esteem for girls.

www.missnewark.org

Just One Soccer League Opening Day Celebration

On Saturday March 26th Just One Soccer League held an opening day celebration at Essex County College gymnasium in Newark, NJ. Just One Soccer League (also known as JOSL) strives to build stronger neighborhoods and develop community leaders by bringing players, parents/guardians, families, coaches and volunteers together through the impactful sport of soccer.  All the city favorites were in attendance: Newark Mayor Cory Booker, Essex County Executive Joseph N. Divincenzo jr., Councilman  Carlos M. Gonzalez and Senator Teresa Ruiz. Special guest and NY Red Bulls Assistant Coach Mike Petke was in attendance and Co Hosted the event alongside, Senator Teresa Ruiz and Just One Soccer League Director, Oscar Rodriguez.

The event turnout was a huge success. Team fans poured into the bleachers sitting patiently to catch a glimpse of their favorite teams. The event began with a greeting by Senator Ruiz. Next Oscar Rodriguez welcomed an upcoming local Hip Hop/ Neo Soul singer named “Orikl” to sing the National Anthem. His vocals blew the audience away. Finally, the fun began “Here come the Teams!” an onlooker shouted. Senator Teresa Ruiz & Mike Pekte took turns announcing the teams. Exploding out from the rear of the gym flew groups of cute little kids fully dressed in colorful uniforms. After the fourth team appeared, it became evident that this display was some type of parade where prancing, fun, thrills, excitement and the smell of good food was in the air. Mayor Cory Booker gave a great speech that revved up the audience and then he greeted each team. Mayor Booker also took turns running with his favorite teams and carrying members of those teams on his shoulders. I stood back and thought to myself “Wow he’s cool and I bet, he’s that kid’s hero!”

Special Thanks to Nelson Rodriguez (Just One Soccer League Events Coordinator), who invited me to this wonderful event. I had a great time.

Mayor Cory Booker & Singer Orikl

L-R NY Red Bulls Assistant Coach Mike Petke, Just One Soccer League Director, Oscar Rodriguez and NJ State Senator Teresa Ruiz

The Masses

The Newark Women's Conference - An Enlightening Experience

Last Thursday 3/24, I received a call from Councilwoman Mildred Crump. She invited me to come and co-facilitate a workshop on “modeling” at her Newark Women’s Conference Event Held at Rutgers in Newark.  I almost squealed with glee!  I immediately called my best gal Diamonnique  Lassiter (Miss Newark 2010) to ask if she would assist me and she said yes. I went to sleep happy, healthy and free …waiting for all the gifts the next day would bring.

On Friday morning, I woke up to a closet full of bad outfit choices, so I decided to go to my office first, to pick up my favorite suit. This made me a little late! When  I arrived at Rutgers Paul Robeson Center, I was greeted by Councilwoman Mildred Crump’s voice in the air. I introduced myself to one of the greeters and she called me a “PANELIST” … Me,   a panelist…HOW EXCITING! I was then escorted into the main room to lay my eyes on 250 bright eyed young women (from local high schools) sitting quietly at round tables of which I have to mention had the most adorable centerpieces.

The day began with greetings and Pep talks by the interim Superintendent of Schools, Deborah Terrell and her staff. Immediately after, the workshops began. I reported to my workshop room not knowing what to expect. As I got to the door and peeked inside, my stomach dropped and I almost felt like a kid on the first day of class. I went inside & to be honest, had the time of my life. This is the stuff I was built for. We had the girls doing t-stands, half turns, full turns and combinations.

Immediately following the workshops was the most delicious lunch on the planet: sautéed chicken with raisin bread, squash and potatoes. Next, motivational speaker Caryl Lucas came to the podium to speak. Her speech focused on letting pain go. She shared her story about her drug addicted father who stabbed her mother - which nearly moved the entire audience to tears. She made all of us look in mirrors and deemed that we set affirmations for ourselves and know our worth. She walked about the entire room and gave a dramatic impact that had the audience laughing, crying and when all was said and done… left everyone feeling empowered, joyful, loved and filled with a zest for life.

I walked in this conference with a goal of teaching modeling to a group of teenagers. I walked out with a burning desire to take over the world! This conference helped me to enlist in an automatic connection/ sisterhood with women everywhere through gender and helped me to realize my self-worth. It opened my eyes to see that women are extremely POWERFUL – we birth generations. Women make the world go around. Through this experience, my existence felt validated & my self-confidence was boosted. This event provided the utmost spiritual enlightenment & excitement. I can’t imagine what next year’s conference will bring.

The Hon. Mildred Crump

Guest Speaker Caryl Lucas as she has a student look in the mirror & set affirmations.