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African American Men of Arizona State University Seeking Local Black Male 9th Graders for High School to College Program

The African American Men of Arizona State University (AAMASU) are now accepting applications to participate in the High School-to-College (H2C) Program, a college prep program, during the upcoming 2010 -2011 academic school year.

What is H2C?

The H2C Program is an early outreach initiative focusing on the recruitment, retention, and graduation rates of African American male high school students. The program offers college prep workshops and mentoring to high schools students and their parents in the Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area to prepare students for college life - college enrollment, retention, and graduation.

The H2C Program is a unique opportunity for high school students and their parents to partner with current ASU college students and faculty/staff members to prepare for college. Interactive H2C college prep workshops, culturally specific programs, and mentoring sessions are held throughout the academic year on Arizona State University Tempe campus to help students achieve their goals of earning a college degree.  Workshop topics include: academic study skills, financial aid, the university admission process, preparing for university entrance exams, profiles in Black History, transitioning from high school to college, and much more.

Participation Eligibility:

Current ninth-grader or freshman with high school credits. NOTE: Unfortunately, no other grade levels will be considered at this time for participation.

Program Cost:

$100.00 per student

Application & Deadline:

An online application is available at students.asu.edu/aamasuh2c. Application deadline is April 30, 2010. Program space is limited. Please submit your application and high school transcript ASAP. Paper applications and transcripts should be mailed to:

Attention: AAMASU
Arizona State University
PO Box 871112
Tempe, AZ 85287-1112

Contact Information:

Nicholas Walker
Advisor/Program Coordinator, AAMASU
Arizona State University
Telephone: 480-965-1697
Fax: 480-727-7592
E-mail: aamasu@asu.edu

Arizona Dream Builder Foundation 2010 Dream Scholar Applications Now Available

The Arizona Dream Builder Foundation, a nonprofit organization that raises funds to support the future leaders of Arizona, announced today it will make scholarship applications available to Arizona students as part of its 2010 Dream Scholar Program. Applications are now available to Arizona high school seniors at www.azdreambuilder.org. 

In order to apply, potential Dream Scholars must be high school seniors enrolled full-time in an Arizona school, maintain a grade point average of 2.5 or higher, personally demonstrate commitment to school and community leadership through the tenets of world leaders who contribute to the advancement of social justice, and provide two letters of support demonstrating that commitment. All students must submit a written application by September 24, 2010. 

All of the 2010 Dream Scholar applications will be reviewed by a panel of judges who will select this year’s five Dream Scholars. The selected students will be announced and honored at the third-annual Arizona Dream Dinner in November. At that time, the Dream Scholars will be awarded a $4,000 scholarship - $1,000 each year for up to four years - to attend an accredited, two- or four-year college or university of their choice.

Last year, the Arizona Dream Builder Foundation named five Arizona high school seniors as Dream Scholars.  The Foundation is looking forward to receiving this year’s applications and naming the next selection of Dream Scholars.

To learn more about the Arizona Dream Builder Foundation and the 2010 Dream Scholar Program, please visit www.azdreambuilder.org or call 480-557-4734.

National Bar Association to Host 2010 Crump Law Camp for Youth on July 11-24 in Washington, D.C.; Minorities Encouraged to Apply

The National Bar Association (NBA) is seeking applicants for the Crump Law Camp which was established for students entering the 9th through 11th grades and between the ages of 14 and 17 to introduce them to the judicial system.

The Crump Law Camp will be held July 11 - 24, 2010 in Washington, D.C. The application deadline is April 30, 2010.

The goal of the NBA camp is to encourage young people at an early age to become lawyers and seek legal careers in the future. By 2050, more than half of the people in this country will be of color. More than 90 percent of the nation’s lawyers are white, as are more than 80 percent of the students enrolled in law school. Yet more than 30 percent of the United States is comprised of people of color. The NBA is seeking applicants to attend this camp from every ethnic group and its selection process is non-discriminatory.

The first inaugural two-week camp was held during the summer at Howard University School of Law through a grant by the Ford Motor Company Fund in 2001. Campers were and will be housed on the Howard University campus and live in a protected camp environment.

The Camp will have an open enrollment policy and be available to students from across the country; however, emphasis will be on enabling low-income students of color. Campers are selected by the Crump Law Committee.

The camp provides students with an exciting academic and social agenda in the Washington, D. C. area. The competitive highlight of the camp is the Evett L. Simmons Mock Trial Competition. The four winners of this competition are invited to the NBA’s Annual Convention.

To access the applications and more information, visit www.Nationalbar.org and find the Crump Law Camp page.

Box of Love for Haiti Program in the Valley Seeks Donations for Earthquake Survivors

Valley resident Megan Newberry is founder of the Box of Love for Haiti, a program that encourages people to place five items from a designated list in a Box of Love (a shoe box) and drop them off at the donation sites listed below.

The purpose of the program is to raise supplies for Haiti disaster relief. Box of Love for Haiti aims to solicit support from local churches, schools, and businesses as partners in this relief effort and meet its mark of 5,000 items per each category. Box of Love for Haiti will advertise by word of mouth, on the radio, Facebook, Myspace, and flyers.

Donations will sent through the Haitian Relief of Arizona and picked up every Sunday, Wednesday, and Saturday.

Box of Love for Haiti Donation Dates and Sites

March 14th and March 28th - Scottsdale
Lolo’s Chicken and Waffles
11 AM to 2:30 PM
2765 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale

March 15th and March 29th - Downtown Phoenix
Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce
9 AM to 12 PM
201 E. Washington, Suite 350, Phoenix

March 18th and April 1st - Tempe
Taste of Caribbean
2-5 PM
219 E. Baseline Road, Tempe

March 20th and April 3rd - South Phoenix
Fade Tite Barbershop and Hair Focus Beauty Shop
1-4 PM
1712 E. Broadway Road, Ste. 3, Phoenix

Here is the needed List of Items: 5,000 is the goal, let’s get it to the top!

• Bottle of water (4 per box) -20,000
• Diapers
• Clothes
• Toothbrush
• Deodorant 2,000 teens, 1500 women’s, 1500 men's
• Shoes 2,000 children’s & teens, 1500 women’s, 1500 men's
• Toothpaste
• Floss
• Brushes
• Combs
• Hair gel
• Socks 2,000 children’s & teens, 1500 women’s, 1500 men’s
• Undershirts 2,000 children’s & teens, 1500 women’s, 1500 men’s
• Underwear 2,000 children’s & teens, 1500 women’s, 1500 men’s
• Soap
• Feminine products
• Baby wipes
• Gallons of water
• Hair ties
• Toys
• Pens
• Paper
• Flashlights
• Mouthwash
• Non perishable foods (4 per box) -20,000
• Can openers
• Storage containers
• Silverware (4 sets per box, fork, knife, and spoon) -80,000
• Dining wear (Plates and bowls) -80,000
• Soap
• Wash bins
• Pillows (4 per household) 20,000
• Blankets (4 per household) 20,000
• Sheets
• Medical grade vinyl gloves
• Bum relief cream
• Antibiotic (ABD) or combine sterile pads 5X9
• Sterile gauze of 4X4
• Thermometers Elastic bandages 3X6
• Instant ice packs
• Roll of adhesive tape
• Triangular bandages
• Package of safety pins
• Absorbent cotton balls
• Diarrhea remedy, Pepto Bismol, Kaopectate
• Popsicle (craft) sticks
• Antibacterial soap
• Clorox bleach in tablet form
• Water Puriticatim pills
• Alcohol pads
• Peroxide swabs
• Antiseptic wipes
• Vinine eye wash
• Ace bandages
• Bentadine solution
• Tweezers
• Scissors
• Telfa pads
• Paper tape
• Nail clippers
• Crutches

For more information about Box of Love for Haiti, contact Megan at 480-677-9807 or visit www.boxofloveforhaiti.ning.com

2010 Arizona Black Film Showcase Reception, Awards Ceremony, Party in Tempe on March 27

The 2010 Arizona Black Film Showcase is hosting an Awards Reception, Ceremony and Party on March 27 from 6 PM to 12 midnight at the aLoft Hotel, 951 E. Playa Del Norte Dr., Tempe.

Jazz musician Dominic Amato will be performing and VJ|DJ unKnown will be in the house.

For more information about the party, you can visit the Facebook Event page:
 
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=379692600718
 
The 2010 Arizona Black Film Showcase will be held from March 26-28 at the MADCAP Theaters and aLoft Hotel in Tempe!

Tickets are on sale now!

Please visit the following Websites for more information about the 2010 Arizona Black Film Showcase:

• www.azblackfilm.com

• 2010azblackfilmshowcase.eventbrite.com

Phoenix Black MBA Chapter to Host New Credit Card Laws Seminar on March 16

Do you understand how the new credit laws affect you?

Please join the Phoenix Chapter of the NBMBAA for an overview of the 2010 New Credit Card Laws and enjoy an evening of networking opportunities

Learning Objectives

1. The end of confusing billing practices
2. Interest-rate reform
3. Opting-in for overdraft and overlimit protections
4. Protections for young consumers

Date:
March 16
 
Location:
Jobing.com
4747 N. 22nd St.
Phoenix, AZ 85016
(602) 200-6800

Time:
6:30 - 8:30PM (refreshments served)
6:30PM Networking (bring business cards)
7:00PM Introductions
7:15PM Topic Discussion
8:00PM Q&A/Wrap up

RSVP:   
Click HERE to register for this event

Kappa Kookout on March 20 at Kiwanis Park in Tempe

If you're looking for a fun opportunity to mingle other African Americans in the Valley of the Sun, check out the Kappa Kookout on March 20 from 12-7 PM at Kiwanis Park in Tempe. Each year the Kappa Kookout gets bigger - PhxSoul.com hung out for a few hours last year and had a great time!

The event is free, and there will be plenty of food. It is for kids and adults of all ages; please click on the flyer below to see some of the activities. You don't have to be Greek to attend!

RSVP is NOT required ... just drop by sometime between noon and 7 PM that day.

Southwest Prostate Cancer Foundation Radio Show on Thursdays

The Southwest Prostate Cancer Foundation's (SWPCF) Radio Show on Thursdays from 10-11 AM addresses a variety of health topics.

Fred Taylor, Executive Director of the SWPCF, invites health care professionals to participate in discussions about cancer and healthy living for men and women.

To learn about the topic of the week, please visit www.sw-prostatecancer.com. 

When: Thursdays
Time: 10-11 AM (NEW TIME FORMAT)
Where: Radio Station – KXXT 1010 AM, or online at www.familyvaluesradio.net (click left side of menu), or call-in Number: 602.296.3632

You can also visit www.sw-prostatecancer.com for more info on the Southwest Prostate Cancer Foundation.

Men of Impact Leadership Academy for Young Males in Phoenix on Saturdays

The Men of Impact Leadership Academy

An opportunity for males, ages 13-17, to engage in structured sessions aimed at enhancing the skills they will need to navigate life's many challenges.

• Writing
• History
• Self-Discovery
• Leadership

WHEN: SATURDAYS THROUGH MAY 22, 2010

TIME: 10 AM to 12:30 PM

WHERE: Phoenix College, 1202 W. Thomas Road, Building B, Room 125, Phoenix, AZ 85013

For more information about The Men of Impact Leadership Academy and/or the organizer, please contact Ahmad Daniels at (704) 491-3053 or visit his Website and read his biography at creative-interchange.com.

Valley of the Sun Corporate Networking on March 19 in Phoenix

Bringing together the Valley’s Top Professionals for Networking with a Purpose.

“Leadership Development in Corporate America” by Global Diversity Consulting.

Details:

• Business Casual, Business Card Exchange
• Plenty of Free Parking
• No Admission Charge, Cash Bar
• March 19, 5:30-8 PM Happy Hour - Meet ‘N Greet, Leadership Development

Location:

• Doc’s Place (40 East Camelback Road, Phoenix AZ)

National Consumer Protection Week: Top 5 Ways Better Business Bureau Can Help You Become a Savvier Consumer

PHOENIX - March 7 is the kickoff to National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) and Better Business Bureau is a proud supporter of this nationwide effort to educate the public on how to become savvier consumers. For anyone looking for advice on how to spend money wisely, your Better Business Bureau is here to help, not just during National Consumer Protection Week but all year long.

For NCPW, hundreds of national and local organizations work together to educate consumers on the importance of taking control of their personal finances.  The theme of this year’s NCPW is Dollars and Sense, Rated A for All Ages and highlights consumer education for every stage of life – from grade school to retirement.

“Now more than ever, consumers need to take control of their spending habits and be vigilant against fraud and scams,” said Matthew Fehling, BBB President/CEO. “We encourage everyone to take time to get educated during National Consumer Protection Week and keep BBB in their back pocket as a tool for protecting their hard earned dollars in the coming year.”

Following are the top five ways BBB can help consumers shop smarter and safer. BBB is here to help if …

1. You need every-day advice on how to manage your money and be a savvy consumer. BBB has created hundreds of tips, columns and consumer alerts on personal finance topics such as how to build a family budget, hire a contractor or avoid the latest scams. Advice you can trust is available online at arizonabbb.org.
2. You need help finding a business you can trust. The BBB Accredited Business Locator can help you find businesses in your area that uphold BBB’s rigorous standards and have made a commitment to support the work of BBB. There are nearly 400,000 BBB accredited businesses across North America including retailers, contractors and online businesses.
3. You want to research a business before you buy. BBB maintains reports on nearly 4 million businesses across North America. A business’s reliability report will tell you how many complaints the business has received, how they responded to complaints and their letter-grade rating reflecting BBB’s experience with the business.
4. You have a dispute with a business. Not only is BBB here to help educate consumers before they buy, BBB can also lend a hand if you have a dispute with a business. Every year BBB receives hundreds of thousands of complaints from disgruntled consumers and is usually able to help resolve the issue quickly and easily.
5. You have been ripped off by a scammer. While BBB isn’t a law enforcement agency and cannot arrest scammers or unscrupulous businesses, your complaint enables BBB to identify trends and warn other consumers and hopefully prevent others from being taken advantage of as well.

Check out all of the online resources and tools BBB provides at www.bbb.org. More information and advice is also available on the National Consumer Protection Week Web site - www.consumer.gov/ncpw.

Good Times: Family Fun Day on April 17 in Phoenix

Future Stars, Inc. and Positive Image Sports are teaming up to host "Good Times: Family Fun Day" on April 17 in Phoenix.

Future Stars, Inc. was created to help students reach their full potential in academics and athletics. The organization supports these students with mentoring, financial awareness training, and school-related resources that have often been a stumbling block for school advancement.

For more information about Future Stars, Inc., please visit www.futurestarsaz.org.

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority to Host Youth Symposium at ASU Tempe Campus on March 27

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc., Beta Mu Sigma Phoenix Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter presents

2010 Youth Symposium
H.Y.P.E for Life (Helping You Prepare for Excellence)
“Building Your Best Through Self Image”
Ages: 14-18

NEEB Hall at Arizona State University
920 S. Forest Mall
Tempe, AZ 85284

Saturday, March 27, 2010
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Workshops | Giveaways | Prizes| Information and Career Fair | Refreshments │ Rap Contest

PARTICIPANTS MUST REGISTER TO ATTEND
To register please send an e-mail to info@betamusigma1922.com (please e-mail to get your registration form)

For more information, contact Tiana Trimble at 602-576-1421 and visit www.betamusigma1922.com
 
RAP CONTEST
Students interested in the rap contest submit audio to info@betamusigma1922.com. Please review flyer for contest rules and information.

An Evening with Spike Lee on March 31 at University of Arizona in Tucson

An Evening with Spike Lee
Wednesday, March 31st, 7pm
University of Arizona Centennial Hall, Tucson

The University Activities Board will be hosting a lecture by award-winning filmmaker Spike Lee at the University of Arizona's Centennial Hall in Tucson.

As you know, Mr. PhxSoul.com is a proud Wildcat alumnus and I'm excited to see that my alma mater was able to land a true icon like Spike Lee! When I first heard that Spike Lee was visiting Tucson, I had to ask myself, how did they do it?!

Lee's films include Malcolm X, Bamboozled, 25th Hour, 4 Little Girls, She's Gotta Have It, Crooklyn, Jungle Fever, Get on the Bus and Do the Right Thing. My favorite Spike Lee movie of all time is School Daze! "Waaaaaake Uuuuup!!!"

Tickets are being offered at half price for all University of Arizona students. These prices are $5, $10, and $15. On March 4-5, there will be a ticket presale for students only. The price is $5 for any seat in the house. 

Tickets for the general public go on sale on March 6 - the prices are $10, $20, and $30.

All purchases can be made at the Centennial Hall Box Office.

PhxSoul.com encourages all Arizonans to take advantage of this incredible opportunity to be in the presence of a filmmaking legend.

In addition to his lecture, the University Activities Board will be giving several students the opportunity to meet Spike Lee. The University Activities Board will be holding a contest where six students will be chosen. The deadline for all contest submissions is March 22.

For more information about the Spike Lee lecture and the student contest, please read this article:

http://uanews.org/node/30407

Nina Scholars Program Application Due April 1 for ASU Students

The Nina Scholars Program provides a scholarship award to assist with a student's cost of attendance at Arizona State University.
 
Application Deadline for Fall 2010 is April 1, 2010
 
Who Can Apply?
Available to individuals meeting at least one of the following criteria:
-  Incoming freshman or continuing students ages 18-25, raised through the child welfare system
-  College-age youths and adults with physical disabilities
-  Adults 25 years of age or older who have dependents in their family unit.
 
What Are the Criteria?
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Be working toward their first college degree
-  Be a U.S. citizen and a resident of Arizona
-  Have a family income no higher than 80% (approx. $41,250) of the median income for Maricopa County
-  Have no more than 24 college-level, degree-applicable credits

Nina Program Information and Applications can be downloaded at ninascholars.asu.edu.

Live It Change It Encourages Black Women to Consider Preconception, Interconception Care

Phoenix’s Black population is only 5 percent, but we have the highest rate of poor birth outcomes such as infant deaths and low birth weight. Because our community is diversely represented across all parts of the Valley, it is difficult to raise awareness about these issues – that is why Live It Change It is encouraging all of us to join the movement and spread the word to your family, friends and the rest of our community. Visit www.LiveItChangeIt.com to find out ways to live a healthier life for you and future generations.

Did you know that the infant death rate among Arizona’s black population is 17 to every 1,000 live births? That’s almost three times the national average! And 100,000 African-American newborns in the U.S. are affected each year by premature birth. However, most of those are directly linked to the mother’s health before pregnancy – which means they are preventable! This is why preconception and interconception care is so important.

Preconception care is care you receive before you get pregnant by targeting health problems to reduce the risk of birth defects and other problems. Interconception care is the care of women between pregnancies to ensure that conditions, behaviors and stressors which may pose a risk to mothers and infants are identified and managed.

These stressors can include unemployment, drug addiction, being a single parent or dealing with health concerns which directly relates to the health of future generations. Visit www.LiveItChangeIt.com to find out ways to deal with social and physical stressors, as well as disease and lifestyle choices. 

Encourage your family and friends to sign up for the movement! For more information about upcoming events or how you can get involved, visit www.LiveItChangeIt.com.

Dr. Na'im Akbar Lecture at ASU Discusses Black Identity in Modern Day Society

Submitted by DaVaun Sanders

The African American Men of Arizona State University (AAMASU) hosted Dr. Na'im Akbar on Feb. 23 for the Carter G. Woodson Lecture series. This will mark the fifth annual offering of an event which is fast becoming a Black History Month staple for ASU students as well as the metro Phoenix community.

Each year AAMASU invites a national speaker to engage the community in a talk aimed “to connect African and African American history to contemporary issues.” Dr. Akbar certainly fulfilled the rich and very necessary tradition the student group is establishing, with his poignant and engaging discussion on the nuances of Black identity in modern day society.

“The people here under 20 represent the first generation of African Americans in America who have a choice not to be Black,” Akbar proclaimed to those in attendance.

One of the premier clinical psychologists in the country, Akbar's extensive body of work is often quoted and used for coursework across the country. His published works include Black empowerment classics such as “Breaking the Chains of Psychological Slavery” and “Visions for Black Men.”

In Tuesday evening's talk he chronicled Black identity from slavery through Jim Crow, all the way to present day denial of Black identity through assimilation and materialism. He explained how Black identity in contemporary culture is considered as negative, and for many prominent Blacks — such as Tiger Woods — the behavior that goes along with that denial is ultimately self-destructive.

Akbar's discussion employed several telling images to emphasize one of his key points about the creation of “media monsters.” He explained how some Blacks don materialistic uniforms (i.e. pimp, playa or hustler) to escape the Black identity, some prominent examples being Flava Flav and Lil Kim.

He also blasted basketball star LeBron James' infamous appearance with supermodel Gisele Bundchen on the cover of Vogue.

“He was victimized to let himself be portrayed as a brute,” Akbar said. “To let himself be portrayed like King Kong in the 21st century — and no one's making him choose that - it is not increasing his value.”

Despite the numerous examples of Black identity gone awry cited during the talk, Dr. Akbar's message proved to be one of empowerment and continued awareness. He stressed to the audience that “your identity should empower you.”

Akbar defines power as “the ability to influence the environment in a way consistent with a people's self interest.” He explained how Blacks must discover their legacy to live a life of full potential, and exhorted students to embrace “an awareness and appreciate for the challenges that have been endured, and the resilience of your identity.”

“Your being here and using this scholarship or this opportunity is a charge for responsibility,” he bade the students.

Dr. Akbar's honest critique and examination of the elements shaping Black identity allowed those present to engage in a true accounting of the factors shaping the Black community. Well received among the crowd of ASU students and community members, the Carter G. Woodson Lecture Series is the sort of programming guaranteed to ensure Black history is remembered, cherished, and acted upon by future generations.

United Parents and Youth League to Host Black Youth Recognition Conference on March 20 at ASU Tempe

United Parents and Youth League (UYPL) would like to invite you to our 31st Annual Black Youth Recognition Conference on March 20, 2010 from 9 AM to 3 PM at Arizona State University, Memorial Union.

This year’s Conference Theme is Focusing on Education: The Key to Change. This conference is for youth in grades 6-12 (ages 11-18).  

UYPL will provide educational workshops for our youth, morning and afternoon entertainment and recognition of students in the Phoenix area. UYPL will also recognize the scholarship recipients for the 2009-10 school year. 

The conference cost is $10.00 per person which will include your breakfast and lunch. For more information, please contact UPYL at 602-455-6141 or visit www.upylinc.org.

Fitness Group Shaping Up to Be a Good Thing for African Americans in the Phoenix Area

Fitness and Health are two initiatives that PhxSoul.com will be enthusiastically promoting to African Americans because it benefits us all to keep our minds, bodies and spirits in the best shape possible.

Luckily, there's a new group in the Valley that is dedicated to helping black people socialize and exercise with each other!

Black Phoenicians for Fitness has been created to provide African Americans within the Phoenix metropolitan area another means to meet other individuals who are interested in becoming more physically fit and conditioned.

Adult males and females are welcome to join. The only requirement is that you have an enthusiastic attitude and be prepared to actively support the group through regular participation.

The group organizer, Travis King, typically plans outdoor and indoor activities/events which hiking, biking, bowling, indoor rock climbing, and any other activity members propose.

The cost is FREE to join the group but there may occasionally be a fee associated with a given event. All fitness levels are welcomed.

Please click on the link below to get started:

http://www.meetup.com/Black-Phoenix-Fitness/

The group Website contains event photos, a calendar of events, polls, member profiles, etc. Please take some time to visit today!

Free Breast Cancer Screenings at Matthew Henson/Hope VI in Phoenix on March 27

Free Breast Cancer Screenings at Matthew Henson/Hope VI in Phoenix on March 27. Please read the flyer below for more information. 

New Dance Program for Minority Youth, Young Adults in Phoenix

NIA Foundation, a non-profit organization in Phoenix has started a dance program that is targeted toward minority youth and young adults.

This program is more than dance classes - it is a dance program that allows youth and young adults to learn all types of dances including ballet, hip hop, modern, jazz, and liturgical and be able to showcase what they have learned through recitals, parades, competitions, and other community events.

The purpose of the program is to build self-confidence, enhance teamwork, and get those interested in dance ... dancing!

Classes for youth ages 8-12 are from 1:30-2:30 PM and classes for those 13 and up from 2:30-3:30 PM on Saturdays at Eastlake Community Recreation Center, 1549 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix.

Limited scholarships are available for the program, as well as a sliding fee scale.

For more information, please check out our Website at www.niafoundation.org. You can contact us by phone at (623) 252-6904 or e-mail us at info@niafoundation.org.

Fathers Mentoring Fathers Event on March 20 in Phoenix

Father Matters is hosting a Fathers Mentoring Fathers event on March 20 in Phoenix.

Father Matters is a nationwide community development organization, committed to building stronger, healthier communities by supporting, encouraging, and enlightening today’s fathers and families. The organization's vision is to see men become more effective, more active, and more involved in their role as fathers with their children.

Read and click on the flyer below for more information.

4.1.1. Effect Community, Entertainment and Fashion Event on April 6 in Downtown Phoenix

Submitted by Louanna Faine, 4.1.1. Producer

Don't miss out on The 4.1.1. Effect's Community, Entertainment and Fashion event on April 6 at 4:30 PM at Phoenix Civic Space Park, 424 N. Central Ave., Phoenix.

The event will include a block party with a tabling of student organizations, local businesses, VIP community members, a fashion show, and a networking after party.

This is a FREE event but we wish everyone to bring a food donation (non-perishable) for St. Mary’s Food Bank or a financial donation to the Red Cross which will go toward their Haiti Relief Fund.

Schedule
4:30– 6:30 pm - Block Party
7 – 9 pm - Fashion Show
9:30 – TBA Mixer

4.1.1. Effect is an ASU student-run organization focused on building partnerships between local businesses and all Arizona State University campuses. 4.1.1 Effect’s mission is to rebuild and redevelop the local economy by working with local businesses, vendors and organizations to create a strong network that pairs businesses and organizations with clients and customers through special events, advertising and marketing strategies.

Every aspect of our mission is for the good of the businesses, organizations and people of the City of Phoenix and the metropolitan area. We show this in many ways but namely by accepting donations for local charities in lieu of charging admission to our events. Every contribution that is made to our organization is a qualifying tax deductible donation.

It is our goal to involve as many businesses, organizations and individuals as possible to create the type of strong network that makes and effects change. Thank you for partnering with 4.1.1. Effect and Arizona State University by aiding in furthering our cause. It is because of generous donors like you that we will be able to revive our city and economy.

Sponsorship/Tabling Opportunities

Silver: $100.00

Company/Organization name on Website and electronic signage. As well as logo listing on all promotional posters. The opportunity to maximize your exposure for a nominal fee. More exposure, more business.

Gold: $250.00

Company/Organization name on Website, electric signage,logo all promotional posters and flyers. Opportunity to place your swag into event gift bags. A great way to put your business or organization in front of potential customers and members.

Platinum: $500.00

Company/Organization name on Website, electric signage, vinyl banner, logo on all printed promotional items including t-shirts. Opportunity to place your swag into event gift bags. Ultimate event exposure for the ultimate return on your investment.

Tabling is $50.00 before March 7th.

Businesses that print off this article from PHXSOUL.com they will get 50% off tabling which means it will be $25.00.

For tabling and sponsorship opportunities, please contact Louanna Faine at (480) 720-5495 or Yvette Jackson at (480) 773-1406.

Arizona Competitive Youth Football League Holding Early Registration Drive for Fall Season

The Arizona Competitive Youth Football League (ACYFL) is now registering early for its Fall Season.

The ACYFL is a grade-based, no-boundaries, non-weight football and cheer league for grades 1-8.

ACYFL's mission is to provide a safe, competitive environment where young athletes will learn, develop, and excel in the fundamentals of football, cheer, sportsmanship, and teamwork.

The ACYFL offers four divisions of play: Mighty-Mite (1st/2nd grade), Junior Pee Wee (3rd/4th grade), Pee Wee (5th/6th grade), and Junior (7th/8th grade). All coaches are USA Football Certified.

HOME Games played at Mountain Pointe High School and AWAY games are throughout the Valley.

FEBRUARY ONLY: Tackle Football $175, $125 for Mighty-Mite; Cheer $90.

Prices increase in March.

To register, e-mail info@acyfllonghorns.com or call Coach John Gould at 602-999-4526.

For more information, visit www.acyfllonghorns.com.

Delta Sigma Theta's Ruby Red Casino Royale on April 17 in Phoenix

Please join the lovely ladies of the Phoenix Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. for our Annual Fundraising Gala, Ruby Red Casino Royale on April 17 at the Hyatt Regency Phoenix Hotel, 122 N. Second St., Phoenix.

8 PM to 1 AM
 
Ticket Prices:
$45 Presale until April 10th
$50 Onsite

• Dancing
• Hors D'ouvres
• Casino Games including Black Jack and Delta Hold'em Poker
• Raffle Prizes
• Elegant Cocktail Attire Requested

To purchase presale tickets or additional information:

• Contact 1-888-275-4898
• E-mail info@dstphoenixalumnae.org
• See a member of Phoenix Metro Alumnae

All proceeds for this event will benefit the Phoenix Metropolitan Alumnae Scholarship Fund and Community Service Projects!

Hotel Room Discounts Available, ask Hyatt Regency Hotel about the DST Rate for April 17th event!

Raffle Sponsors and Financial Sponsor Packages available.

Arizona Black Film Showcase on March 26-28 at Tempe's MadCap Theaters; Get Your Tickets Now!

PhxSoul.com is a Proud Media Partner

Back by popular demand, the Arizona Black Film Showcase (AZBFS) resumes play March 26-28 at the MadCap Theaters in Tempe. Tickets are on sale now through www.azblackfilm.com. Take advantage of Early Bird prices through March 5!! The AZBFS Family invites everyone to participate in this community and volunteer-driven event. 

Now in its eighth year, this annual competitive film showcase is dedicated to celebrating and promoting the dynamic works of aspiring filmmakers whose works embrace the spirit and diversity of the Black cultural experience. AZBFS 2008 Feature Film winner Something is Killing Tate, by director Leon Lozano, is one such example of how the Showcase has helped further the exposure of developing filmmakers. Lozano’s film has gone on to win a number of awards and was picked up for mass marketing by cable network Starz in Black.  Look for future AZBFS success stories at this year’s Showcase. Up to 40 films will be screened throughout the competition. Missed a film? Come back for seconds on Sunday, March 28. AZBFS will host its  “Best Of” screening event at MadCap Theaters featuring a second look at some of the most-talked about films at this year’s Showcase.

Turning the spotlight on future filmmakers, AZBFS’ Youth Film Boot Camp aims to inspire young people to explore the art of filmmaking. This one-day workshop invites high school students to interact with industry professionals as they learn the A to Z’s of filmmaking. This year’s Film Boot Camp will be held on the first day of the Showcase (Friday, March 26th ) at the Collins College Satellite Campus in Tempe. Contact youthbootcamp@azblackfilm.com for more info.

AZBFS continues to unite aspiring and established filmmakers in a setting designed to share knowledge, resources and talent from around the world. Over the years, the Showcase has had the honor and privilege of hosting a number of esteemed industry professionals who have been gracious in sharing their time and experience with bourgeoning talent. Guests have included Oscar nominated director Lee Daniels who, in 2008, offered AZBFS attendees a glimpse of a little film he was working on at the time. That film, “Precious: Based on the novel ‘Push’ by Sapphire” has gone to win several awards and recently landed six Oscar nominations. 

Other AZBFS guests who have participated in sharing their time and knowledge with attendees include award-winning actress Lynn Whitfield (“The Josephine Baker Story,” “A Thin Line Between Love And Hate”), actor and author Hill Harper (“Lackawanna Blues,” “CSI:NY”), actor-director Bill Duke (“A Rage In Harlem,” “Sister Act 2: Back In The Habit”), actor-director Mario Van Peebles (“New Jack City, “Posse”), comedian Wayne Brady (“The Wayne Brady Show,” “Let’s Make A Deal”), Reginald Hudlin (“House Party,” “Boomerang”), and others. 
 
On Saturday, March 27, Showcase attendees will also have an opportunity to visit sponsors and vendors at AZBFS’ Vendor and Resource Fair at the MadCap Theaters in Tempe. Join us later at the aloft Hotel in Tempe as we celebrate the works of those filmmakers who will have left a lasting impression on their judges and peers at AZBFS’ Awards Reception and Ceremony for short and feature films. 

We look forward to seeing you at the 2010 Arizona Black Film Showcase. Please visit www.azblackfilm.com for more information about this year’s event. Also visit us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube. For general inquiries, please contact AZBFS at info@azblackfilm.com.

University of Arizona Black Alumni 2010 Phenomenal Woman Award Dinner in Tucson on April 30

The University of Arizona Black Alumni (UABA) will celebrate its 2010 Phenomenal Woman Award Dinner on April 30 at the University of Arizona Grand Ballroom in Tucson with a 6 PM no-host reception and 7 PM dinner.

Since 1986, the UABA has continued its tradition of honoring African American women who have dedicated their time and energy to the community. In addition to her community involvement, the 2010 honoree, Donna Liggins is the supervisor of the Northwest Neighborhood Center and 1st Vice President of the NAACP, Tucson Chapter.

The UABA invites you to attend this event and help the raise scholarship funds at The University of Arizona. The Phenomenal Woman Award Dinner dinner is the major fundraiser for the UABA and you are an integral part of its success.

April 30, 2010
No Host Reception - 6 PM
Dinner - 7 PM
UA Student Union Memorial Center
Grand BallRoom
Tucson, AZ

Tickets and Sponsorship opportunities are available.

For more information, please visit www.ArizonaAlumni.com/uaba or call Tanisha Price-Johnson at 520.626.8626

Arizona Black History Month Expo Brings Together Legends of the Past, Local Businesses, Performers and the Community

Photo by William Cook   PhxSoul.com was a vendor at the Arizona Black History Month Expo. We enjoyed meeting everyone who visited our table!

Submitted by DaVaun Sanders

The Arizona Black History Month Expo packed the George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center on a beautiful Saturday afternoon in downtown Phoenix on Feb. 13. Between an impressive array of vendors, enthusiastic crowd, and various cultural presentations, the Expo organizers truly offered something of interest for everyone who attended.

Arizona vendors brought their latest in fashion, hair care, artwork and food. Hundreds of people were in attendance for the event which lasted from 10 AM to 5 PM.

“The crowd is outstanding, this has been good exposure,” said Curtis Brewton, the owner of CURREG Men's Clothing and Accessories. “I've made contact with people that I wouldn't normally meet.”

Patrons regularly perused Brewton's wares, and he was one of several Expo vendors who sold merchandise throughout the day. The business owner's outlook remains cautiously optimistic, for the economy this past year proved quite a challenge to his continuing success.

“The customers that I used to have are not always able to buy, and many new ones that would like to buy are also unable to,” said Brewton. “The economic downturn has definitely impacted my business.”

Despite tough times for Valley businesses, the mood at the Expo remained festive. This was primarily due to the hosting enthusiasm of Ava Burns, Expo organizer and CEO of The Write Up, an urban newspaper that serves the Phoenix metropolitan area. Consistent happenings on the main stage, including a fashion show, gospel showcase, hair show, and barber battle—all also made for an upbeat and bustling afternoon. Youth presence at the Expo proved to be particularly strong, and the DJs catered their song selections to that demographic throughout the day. A peach cobbler contest and food specials from Karim's Cobbler Shop & Deli kept faces smiling for young and old alike.

While the presence and honoring of two Tuskegee Airmen allowed for a flesh and blood connection to the African-American heritage, the most historical component of the Expo was undoubtedly the Carver Museum itself. This gem is tucked into the underbelly of downtown Phoenix, and holds many quiet reminders of the local African American legacy for anyone willing to wander the halls and search them out.

The Carver Museum is a former high school, now supported through the Phoenix Monarchs Alumni Association. Various states of renovation and disrepair battle quietly in the halls and rooms away from the thumping bass and crowds in the main auditorium. In one of these dusty spaces, sports memorabilia is treasured away, where displays hold old Monarch records and ASU student athlete plaques. There is even a trophy and smiling photograph of Joe Black, a Negro League pitcher who broke into the Majors for five years, and named Rookie of the Year in 1952.

Tucked away in a museum courtyard is a sculpture of four women entitled, “That Which Might Have Been, Birmingham 1963,” which is dedicated to the memory of the four young girls killed in a church bombing during the Civil Rights era. In a twist of irony, unsupervised children from the Expo crowd had chosen this space to play. Some would even dare to climb on the sculptures, but an elder's stern voice warned against it.

“I remember a time when a Black sheriff couldn't arrest a white person,” says Jap Harrison, a board member for the Carver Museum who graduated from the original school in 1951. He leans on a cane, watching the youngsters with a kindly eye as he continues.

“There's been a lot of progress in town, but we could be pushing for a whole lot more.”

Harrison speaks upon many issues, such as the Museum's plans to renovate the upstairs area, and his belief that the President is not getting the support he deserves from the community. “Obama can't do it by himself,” he observes. Unfortunately the ears sharing the courtyard with the elder's words are much too young to grasp his perspective.

The Arizona Black History Month Expo proved to be remarkably well named, in gathering a positive blend of celebration, remembrance, and industry. Both youth and elder benefited, from the auditorium stage to the Carver Museum's courtyard. Hopefully the chance collisions between these two vastly different generations will give way to more purposed collusion within the African American community as Black History Month events continue.

Legislative and Leadership Conference Gives Arizona African Americans Opportunities to Make Our Voices Heard

Submitted by DaVaun Sanders

The Arizona African American Legislative and Leadership Conference recently held its Eighth Annual offering on Feb. 11-12, with a theme of “Passing the Torch to the Next Generation.” The Conference provided opportunities for the community to interface with local leaders in government and business, as well as to sit in on workshops exploring key issues relevant to the African American community.

The conference kicked off Thursday morning kicked with a prayer breakfast that included remarks by Governor Jan Brewer, Senator Leah-Landrum Taylor and Representative Cloves Campbell, Jr. Participants used the meeting to highlight key issues of concern to the African-American community to the Governor, who emphasized the difficulties of presenting a balanced budget with a current $3 billion state shortfall.

“Times are tough, and I'm tough,” Governor Brewer said. “We need to be problem solvers.”

Brewer also identified Arizona initiatives where faith organizations and nonprofits can be better utilized to fulfill needs within the community where the state may fall short. One tool she highlighted is ArizonaSERVES, which is currently accepting applications for a task force convened specifically to marshal community resources.

“Our voices have to be heard loud, and our voices have to be heard strong,” said Representative Campbell. “This is your day to be a lobbyist. This is an opportunity for us to come together. We have some of the brightest minds in the African-American community here today. The programs getting cut affect African-American (issues) disproportionately in the state, such as sickle cell and diabetes.”

Senator Landrum-Taylor also educated conference attendees about Senate Bill 1174, which would permanently establish a state African-American affairs commission and annual African-American Legislative Day event. The current commission exists only through a temporary executive order by former Governor Napolitano.

Upon the conclusion of the prayer breakfast, conference attendees headed to the Senate Floor for opening ceremonies and The State of the African-American Community Address by Janita Gordon, Senior Advancement Officer of the Arizona Community Foundation.

“If you thought you would hear some dismal state of African-American affairs, I'm sorry to disappoint you,” Gordon said. “We vote, we have jobs, we create jobs.”

She cited several examples of community progress from the comprehensive publication, “The State of Black Arizona, Vol II,” distributed to attending legislators, and available online at www.stateofblackaz.org.

Pastor Shawn Buchanan from St. Paul Baptist Church in Sierra Vista provided a rousing plea to onlookers and politicians in his closing remarks from the Senate floor.

“I'm an African-American, but if you pull back my skin and remove my color, I am just like you,” he said. “Every culture in our state provides a resource.”

Thursday’s programming concluded with a luncheon on the House lawn and a Community Awards Dinner later in the evening at the George Washington Carver Museum in downtown Phoenix.

On Friday morning, conference organizers dedicated Legislative Leadership Workshops on six identified pillars: Justice, Youth, Health, Economic Development, Education, and Environment. The Youth Workshop provided a particularly engaging session which explored the ramifications of the 'N'-Word and its continued use in our community. Co-facilitated by Dr. Camilla Westenberg of Phoenix College, the event sought a dialogue on the slur's pervasiveness by inviting area spoken word poets and rappers to talk about their experiences with the word and explore ways to move past it.

The conference concluded with another luncheon featuring Keynote Speaker Judge Cody Williams. As Arizona's budgeting crisis deepens, these African-American leaders' efforts towards “Passing the Torch to the Next Generation” will undoubtedly prove critical to the community's continued success this decade and beyond.

Jazz Cabaret Benefit for Duet at the Arizona Biltmore on March 21

Jazz Cabaret
Sunday, March 21, 2010
1:30 – 5:00 p.m.

Arizona Biltmore
2400 E. Missouri Avenue

Live performances by The Reed Family, Francine, Margo, Mellody and Michael, bringing us their music. 

Great food and wine
Silent & Live Auction 

Emcee Blaise Lantana of KJZZ radio station.

All proceeds of the Jazz Cabaret support Duet: Partners In Health & Aging. Duet enhances the lives of older adults and their families in the greater Phoenix area. Duet is a nonprofit, interfaith organization that promotes health and well-being through a broad range of free-of charge-services to homebound adults, caregivers, faith communities, and grandparents raising grandchildren.