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Victorious Women Ministries Conference Cruise to the Bahamas on November 2-5 - Register Today!

Victorious Women Ministries hosts a three-day Conference Cruise to the Bahamas on November 2-5, 2012. This conference features dynamic and powerful keynote speakers with a track record of inspiring others to trust God and His plan.

Conference theme: Let Us Run with Endurance, which is based on Hebrews 12:2. You will enjoy the conference speakers, workshops, and music, as well as the spectacular amenities of the beautiful Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship– Majesty of the Seas.

This is an experience you cannot afford to miss.

For registration information, please visit the Website at www.victoriouswomenmin.org or call Joyce Wells, travel coordinator, at (913) 422-3068.

Dr. Victoria Jones, Founder and President of Victorious Women Ministries, looks forward to 500500seeing you there — departing from Miami, Florida.

Do not delay, register today!

 

Great Deals on Las Vegas Hotels, Flights, Show Tickets and More!

We know Arizonans LOVE to travel to Las Vegas with friends and/or family for a quick getaway!

Make sure you get the best deals on Sin City hotels, flights, show tickets and VIP nightclub reservations by clicking on the banners below!

We'll continue to update this page with more banners as we build our partnerships!

And always remember ... what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas!!

 

OIC of America Aims to Raise $100 Million for African American Entrepreneurial Mindset Initiative

Philadelphia, PA (BlackNews.com) -- During President Barack Obama's January State of the Union Address, he challenged Americans to "do big things." OIC of America, Inc. (OICA) is taking big action. For generations, African American unemployment and underemployment have been at least double that of white Americans. While there have been gains in education, the wealth gap between African Americans and other groups has not closed.

Given the proven correlation between self-employment and wealth creation, OICA, in a groundbreaking move, announced today that it is launching a focused initiative designed to encourage more African Americans to think like and become entrepreneurs. The organization expects to reach over one million people in the years to come.

The Entrepreneurial Mindset Initiative will be funded perpetually by an endowment, raised in two parts. The first $10 million will come from the community nationwide through "OIC-10," a funding initiative designed to turn 1 million, one time, ten-dollar contributions into a $10 million endowment. The remaining $90 million will come through "challenge grants" from foundations and interested individuals.

The endowment will fund grassroots programs that encourage, train and support individuals in their quest to become successful business owners. OIC of America has trained over two million people nationwide since its origin. OICA's visionary founder, the late Reverend Leon H. Sullivan, was a force in African American entrepreneurship and self help when, in 1968, he started Progress Plaza. The North Philadelphia shopping center was the first black owned enterprise of its kind in America. Philadelphia citizens, who invested in Reverend Sullivan's 10/36 Plan, funded the project. The plan involved thousands of individuals and families contributing small sums of money to accomplish a goal.

In keeping with 21st century technological advances, OIC of America also introduced a mobile giving option for OIC-10. Cell phone users can make their donation by texting the keyword "OIC" to "41010" from their mobile phone. This convenient option allows a wider audience to make their $10 donation and support the Entrepreneurial Mindset Initiative.

In addition to announcing the Entrepreneurial Mindset Initiative, OIC of America also announced that it has appointed business executive and entrepreneur Stanley H. Greene as National Director-Entrepreneurial Mindset Initiative. He will oversee both the fundraising initiative and the implementation of the training initiative.

"I am excited to take on this important initiative," said Greene. "I have been involved in many projects over the years, and this is the most challenging and potentially rewarding for communities nationwide."

OIC of America Chairman, Art Taylor added, "Consistent with our history, OIC of America will not wait for someone to wave a magic wand and eliminate the economic disparities for African Americans. It has not happened in the past and will not happen in the future. We are happy to have Stanley Greene on board as we make a big and bold move to help people make it in this economy."

President and CEO, Howard Sullivan added, "The foundation for economic success for African Americans was built close to 50 years ago. It is especially gratifying to me that we are launching this initiative today and using the simple but powerful principles my father put in place to help move African Americans forward."

Go to the OIC of America website at www.oicofamerica.org and click on "OIC-10" to make your $10 donation today.

Gist Becomes 1st African-American President of American Dental Association

CHICAGO, Oct. 13, 2010 – Raymond F. Gist, D.D.S., a general dentist from Flint, Mich., is the 2010-2011 president of the American Dental Association (ADA).  Dr. Gist’s induction took place during the ADA’s 151st Annual Session in Orlando, Fla.

Dr. Gist is the first African-American president of the 157,000 dentist member organization, the nation’s oldest and largest dental association in the United States.

“Becoming the first African-American president of the ADA is very rewarding for me, because it has allowed me to demonstrate that the opportunity is here for every dentist that aspires to make a significant contribution to this fine profession,” Dr. Gist said.  “It also highlights the accomplishments of the African-American dentists that preceded me and created this pathway for me to follow. While too many of my fellow professionals endured the hardships of being denied membership for far too many years, I represent the welcoming change in both attitude and spirit.”

Before he was chosen president-elect by the 2009 House of Delegates in Honolulu, Dr. Gist had completed a four-year term on the ADA Board of Trustees as the trustee from the 9th District, which represents Wisconsin and Michigan. He had also served as a delegate and on the Reference Committee on Dental Benefits, Practice and Health as well as chair of the Diversity Committee. In addition to being past president of the Michigan Dental Association (MDA) and the Genesee District Dental Society, he also is a past president of the Mid-State Dental Study Group, of which he is a founder. He served on the MDA Board of Trustees and as MDA secretary from 1994-1997. He is a fellow of the American College of Dentists, the International College of Dentists, and the Pierre Fauchard Academy, and enjoys memberships in the Academy of General Dentistry and the National Dental Association. He is a delegate to the FDI World Dental congress and served as trustee liaison to the ADPAC (American Dental Political Action Committee) Board of Directors.

His numerous awards and honors include a State of Michigan Legislative Tribute, the Michigan Dental Association Public Relations Award, and a United Negro College Fund Outstanding Participation Award.

During his one-year term, Dr. Gist plans to focus on membership outreach and advocacy efforts that will have special appeal to young dentists.

“Programs oriented to students and new graduates are a priority for me,” Dr. Gist said. “That's why I am so passionate about addressing debt issues, among other concerns, such as licensure, for students and new graduates—and I would like to see our new graduates become passionate about organized dentistry. I want them all to have a full understanding of how much organized dentistry has to offer, and I'd like to get them to a point where they feel that membership in organized dentistry is just as necessary as having a license to practice dentistry.”

Dr. Gist received his dental degree from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry and was a captain in the U.S. Air Force before entering private dental practice.

He and his wife, Jill, reside in Grand Blanc, Michigan, and have one daughter, Holly, and two grandchildren.

Arizona Travel Escapes #7: Boyce Thompson Arboretum

Arizona Travel Escapes is a travel guide to showcase the many must-see spots in AZ! Whether you are looking for that perfect romantic getaway, or an adrenaline rush that will turn your hair white, check in with PhxSoul.com for the latest and greatest. We'll clue you in on the best route, the gear you'll need, and rate how every destination stacks up against all the rest.

Submitted by DaVaun Sanders @davaunwrites

The Business: State Route 60 will take you towards some of the most beautiful scenery our fine desert climate has to offer. While staring in awe at Picketpost Mountain rising up in the distance, we just so happened to spot a sign for the Boyce Thompson Arboretum. And that, boys and girls, is how simply another Arizona Travel Escape was born!

The Arboretum is named after “Colonel” William Boyce Thompson, who made a killing in the stock market and enjoyed Rockefeller-style success mining copper in the early 1900s. The Boyce Thompson Arboretum is the oldest non-profit in Arizona and sits on 323 acres.  The University of Arizona adopted it in 1965, and it became a part of the Arizona State Park system in 1976.

The key to enjoying this Travel Escape to the fullest is good timing. If you mosey on over there around, say, the middle of July at two in the afternoon, your appreciation will be decidedly limited. You might need an IV afterward too—that sun does not play. If you are an early riser, proceed with no reservations—otherwise you may want to wait until the cooler months to check this place out.

Over three miles of pathway—much of it shaded by trees and pomegranate bushes—are at your disposal here, so be ready to enjoy a comfortable stroll. Various desert plants are marked along the different nature areas (including a yucca big enough to swallow my girlfriend), and there are two greenhouses displaying a plethora of cacti species. Needless to say, keep the young ones within arm's reach at this particular exhibit. If you plan to see the view from Picketpost House, get to the Arboretum early enough for a good mile of walking.

Butterflies and hummingbirds abound in the Rose Garden during the summer months, and a lot of other areas too. I can't stress enough how peaceful the Arboretum is, an excellent place to walk and think, or sit and converse with your lady-boo. Bring a basket for a picnic while you're at it—you'll score points for originality at the very least. Think of the Desert Botanical Gardens in Phoenix as a comparison, except you won't experience the rugged beauty of Magma Ridge if you opt to stay in the city. Squirrels and lizards are constantly zipping across the path, which should provide amusement if you have toddlers in the mix. We spotted a few cardinals in the trees overhead. Bright and joyful looking birds, even now that Warner is retired.

The Arboretum  has really gone out of the way to provide interesting events, including stargazing, photography classes, nature walks and artisan showings and workshops. View the page here for a full listing, and I also recommend calling ahead for advice depending on what you wish to see during your visit. The Arboretum staff is absolutely phenomenal—everyone we spoke with was friendly and really helpful. Queen Creek's flow is visible in January and February, and also briefly during monsoon season.

Light snacks are available at the visitor center, so bring food if you are staying long enough to eat a meal, or check out nearby Superior. If you can recommend us any good lunch spots we should hit there, please let us know in the comments section below. Wishing you the best Escapes!

View Larger Map

Good to Know:

• Admission is $7.50 for adults and $3.00 for children ages 5 through 12. Children younger than five get in free.
• Summer hours (May through August) are 6:00 am to 3:00 pm. They will stop admissions at 2:00 pm so you have at least an hour to enjoy the trails—the park closes promptly at three. September through April the hours revert to 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
• Pets are allowed, but keep 'em on a leash!
• The Arboretum hosts unique events every month. Look here for the calendar.
• Look for secluded spots for maximum wooing effect on this handy map handy map. Just remember when the park closes, snuggle bunnies.

Ish You Need: Comfortable shoes and water. There are picnic and barbecue areas, as well as opportunities to take some nice, natural photographs.

Get Gone: This is a straight shot from Phoenix. Make your way to the 60 East headed towards Mesa, and turn right at Boyce Thompson Road. Keep a lookout for the sign near milepost #223. Travel time: Not bad at all, just an hour from Phoenix.

In the Neighborhood: 

• Picketpost Mountain
• Superior
• Lost Dutchman State Park
• Devil's Canyon

Escape Rating:

Five Stars: Like Jordan on a hot streak—you can't miss this.
Four Stars: More potential fun than the Suns on a fast break.
Three Stars: A decent use of gas so you might as well check it out.
Two Stars: Trips like these are why they invented Tivo.
One Star: Better than sitting at home with no AC—just barely.

Arizona Travel Escapes #6: Kartchner Caverns State Park

Arizona Travel Escapes is a travel guide to showcase the many must-see spots in AZ! Whether you are looking for that perfect romantic getaway, or an adrenaline rush that will turn your hair white, check in with PhxSoul.com for the latest and greatest. We'll clue you in on the best route, the gear you'll need, and rate how every destination stacks up against all the rest.

Submitted by DaVaun Sanders @davaunwrites

The Business:  The opportunity to explore real life caves is so alluring, we are back at it again this week with a review of Kartchner Caverns State Park. This is one of the most amazing and unique spaces you will see in Arizona. So whether you are secretly considering a Batmanesque lifestyle, or just want to see some otherworldly rock formations, read on!

Your day begins with a nice little cart ride up the mountain after the tour guides introduce themselves.
The entrance is reminiscent of a bank vault door, set in place to keep Kartchner's natural environment intact. You'll definitely notice an odd cave smell, and the air is fairly damp.

We took the Throne Room tour, as the Big Room was closed to allow the bat colonies there time to raise their little ones. Not creepy at all, that. The two major tours average around twenty bucks for adults, which may rank high on some folks' cringe-o-meter. I would argue in the park's defense that you are getting fair value for your dollar. For starters, the cave is meticulously well kept by rangers and staff, who don't allow any personal possessions whatsoever into the Caverns. The payoff for this care is the experience of a cave in near pristine detail, with well paved paths and plenty of striking viewpoints.

Our path descended past all manner of formations, from standard stalagmites and stalactites to 'soda straws' which look exactly as they sound, except they are in most cases several feet long. One is twenty-one feet long—the second longest in the world! Some of the mineral drips flow away from the ceilings in such a way to look like bacon strips from a very well fed hog. The tour bottoms out into a huge mud flat where dripping water still echoes through the space. My favorite place was right there, where some of the cavern walls sparkle with miniature crystals when the rangers shine their flashlights on them. You can feel the sheer weight of the Whetstone Mountains pressing down on you.

You'll meander through twists and turns where glistening rock looks more like frozen waterfalls. The tour is an hour and a half, but there are plenty of pauses while the guides explain the intricacies of limestone and highlights the more unusual rock patterns. The park staff were great, and made sure to involve the younger kids in our group. This is a definite bonus, considering you don't want your progeny responsible for breaking any of the delicate rock formations that took tens of thousands of years to form.

Equally impressive are the efforts the cave explorers took to keep Kartchner preserved. Gary Tenen and Randy Tufts initially discovered the cave while exploring in November of 1974 and managed to keep it secret for nearly four years. Only in 1988 was it purchased as an Arizona state park.

The grand finale of the Throne Room tour is the Kubla Khan, a column that stands at fifty-eight feet tall, making it the largest in Arizona. The tour ends with a light show choreographed to some ambient music, teasing the group as the Cavern almost fades into complete darkness.

Kartchner Caverns is host to a well developed museum and campgrounds—we didn't get a chance to camp out here, but will definitely check it out once we head back for the Big Room tour. The Discovery Center holds the preserved bones of an unfortunate sloth that got trapped in the caverns during prehistoric times. Kartchner ranked in the top ten of Coca Cola's national contest of state parks, so a reservation should certainly find a spot on your to-do list. Unfortunately they do not allow general picture taking, so we'll have to content you with the video below. Wishing you the best Escapes!

View Larger Map

Good to Know:

• There are two major cavern tours, the Rotunda/Throne and the Big Room. Each trail is roughly a half mile, and both tours take an hour and a half to complete.
• Fees for the Rotunda/Throne Tour are $18.95 for adults, and  $9.95 for children ages 7 to 13. Younger children are free.
• The Big Room Tour is $22.95 for adults, and $12.95 for children ages 7 to 13. Younger than seven are free.
• Purchase your tickets and make reservations by calling ahead to 520.586.2283.

Ish You Need: Just the basics here, good walking shoes. The inside of the cave is a comfortable temperature, so don't over layer or you'll have a nice sheen once the tour is complete. Remember that water is not allowed inside so be sure to hydrate (and hit the bathroom) before the tour starts!

Get Gone: From Phoenix, you are taking the I-10 East past Tucson. Take Exit 302 for AZ-90 S towards Ft. Huachuca/Sierra Vista and turn right.  After eight miles, take another right at Park Service Road, there will be a sign. Travel time: Make sure the kids' iPods are charged, you are looking at just under three hours for this one!

In the Neighborhood: 

• Tombstone
• Colossal Cave Mountain Park
• Tucson
• Saguaro National Park

Escape Rating:

One of Arizona's best kept secrets, with plenty of surrounding recreation and events.

Five Stars: Like Jordan on a hot streak—you can't miss this.
Four Stars: More potential fun than the Suns on a fast break.
Three Stars: A decent use of gas so you might as well check it out.
Two Stars: Trips like these are why they invented Tivo.
One Star: Better than sitting at home with no AC—just barely.

Arizona Travel Escapes #5: Colossal Cave Mountain Park

Arizona Travel Escapes is a travel guide to showcase the many must-see spots in AZ! Whether you are looking for that perfect romantic getaway, or an adrenaline rush that will turn your hair white, check in with PhxSoul.com for the latest and greatest. We'll clue you in on the best route, the gear you'll need, and rate how every destination stacks up against all the rest.

Submitted by DaVaun Sanders @davaunwrites

The Business:  All of our Travel Escapes thus far have focused on the northern wonders of Arizona. This week, we are looking at a destination south of Phoenix. We constantly praise the geological diversity of our fine state—where else can you find snow, monsoons and sun combined with desert, forest and red rock canyons? Now you can add caves to that list! Incredible, we know.

Colossal Cave is a fun tour, a starter limestone cave for curious folks who are somewhere between hopeless claustrophobe and hardcore spelunker. The way is paved or rough stone steps, and none of the gentle mood lighting interspersed throughout the tour steals away from the cave experience. Definitely not cramped, but if you stand taller than six feet, watch your dome. I met with a particular stalactite forever christened in my mind as The Splitter of Wigs—by all you hold dear, do not share in my misfortune.

Another thing I will warn you about is the rather memorable smell you will experience upon entering Colossal Cave. The entrance is now gated so modern day bank robbers can't hide out from Mean Sheriff Joe, but that doesn't prevent raccoons, bats and other creatures seeking to take advantage of the cool inner clime. While the air is pungent until you get used to it, the temperature is nice—Colossal Cave stays a balmy seventy degrees year round. We saw an actual bat too, but it fluttered around in a rather confused loop before continuing on its way. Certainly startled a few folks on the tour, but surely didn't dive for any necks, True Blood style. Sookie!

Our tour guide really knew his stuff and had an appropriately dry sense of humor. Colossal Cave is considered a non-growing cave, geologists estimate its been that way for at least two thousand years. That didn't stop Hohokam Native Americans from using the cave for shelter while farming the surrounding area around 900 A.D. The cave has a history full of robbers and explorers, all the way up until May of 1934 when the Civilian Conservation Corps finished out the interior for continued tours.

An added bonus to the park is the built up programming surrounding the cave attraction. They offer candlelight tours and there are riding stables on site, where you can see some Hohokam ruins and desert scenery. For the seriously inclined, hardhat tours off the beaten path that require levels of fitness and the ability to not freak out in near total darkness. Call for reservations if that is your speed. We didn't get a chance to explore those added options for our visit, but did enjoy a night of camping in one of the loops available.

You can easily pack several enjoyable outings into one trip here without a whole lot of driving back and forth, which is definitely a plus. The gift shop has all the usual odds and ends—be sure to pick up some Rattlesnake Eggs for your lady or kids. Meander over to the La Posta Quemada Ranch for more food offerings, and of course access to the stable. If you check out any of those additional attractions, let us know how you liked them in the comments section below!

View Larger Map

Good to Know:

• Cave tours are $11.00 for adults, and $6.00 for children ages 5-12. Children four and under are free. If that is cutting into your diaper budget, click here for a Fun Pass Coupon which gives you half price off a kid's tour. I like deals!
• Summer hours for the park are 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, lasting March 16th through September 15th. Winter hours are 9:00am to 5:00pm on September 16th to March 15th.
• Cost is $5.00 per vehicle with an additional added dollar for every person over six people. Motorcycles are $2.00, tour buses are $1.00 per person, and bicycles are $1.00. If you really must challenge the system, school buses are free.
• Call 520.647.7275 for information about Annual passes.

Ish You Need: The cave tour takes place on a pretty dainty trail, a few mild slopes are involved but it is well paved. Sturdy shoes are a good idea, unless you are just dying to wiggle your open toes in the cool cave air, or watch one of your kids 'accidentally' lose a sandal down the Bottomless Pit. Bring standard camping gear if you plan to rough it. The loops are equipped with the essentials, grills over the firepit, trashcans and outhouses.

Get Gone: From Phoenix take the I-10 East towards lovely Tucson. Roughly 130 miles later you'll look for Exit 279 Wentworth Road and turn left. Continue onto East Colossal Cave Road for 2 miles, and turn right to stay on East Colossal Cave Road. Don't panic when the road becomes South Pistol Hill Road, you are going the right way. Turn left on East Old Spanish Trail and follow the signs. Travel time: Looking at a two and a half hour drive, nothing too strenuous.

In the Neighborhood:

• Tucson
• Kartchner Caverns State Park
• Tombstone
• Saguaro National Park

Escape Rating:

 

The little brother to Kartchner Caverns, but variety makes for a unique & budget friendly outing. 

Five Stars:  Like Jordan on a hot streak—you can't miss this.
Four Stars:  More potential fun than the Suns on a fast break.
Three Stars: A decent use of gas so you might as well check it out.
Two Stars: Trips like these are why they invented Tivo.
One Star:  Better than sitting at home with no AC—just barely.

Arizona Travel Escapes #4: Petrified Forest National Park

Arizona Travel Escapes is a travel guide to showcase the many must-see spots in AZ! Whether you are looking for that perfect romantic getaway, or an adrenaline rush that will turn your hair white, check in with PhxSoul.com for the latest and greatest. We'll clue you in on the best route, the gear you'll need, and rate how every destination stacks up against all the rest.

Submitted by DaVaun Sanders @davaunwrites

The Business: We got a free day to check out this latest Travel Escape when a trip to visit some kinfolk didn't last as long as planned. If we could rate this spot for Most Creatively Named, we would present you with a winner, hands down. Unfortunately, a few other factors in this dreadfully undesirable destination reared their ugly heads.

To be fair, this park offers a variety of things to do, from Junior Ranger volunteering activities, viewing petroglyphs and Pueblo ruins, special cultural days—you name it. The problem is that in the end, you can't deny the fact that Petrified Forest National Park lies in the middle of some pretty uninspiring landscape. The Painted Desert that encompasses much of the park is known for colored bands of red, white and yellow due to the mineral deposits there. If you want to catch the full effect of these vistas, you really need to be there for a sunset.

The main draw is undoubtedly the petrified tree remnants. The concept sounds pretty cool, right? Especially if you were once into dinosaurs, or anything prehistoric like yours truly. Problem is, none of these trees are still standing (which makes total sense after millions of years.) The Visitor Center offers a first glimpse with the Giant Logs Trail, a light quarter mile path that is easily traversable. The quartz in petrified wood makes some intriguing color patterns, but there are only so many variations on a theme at this park. Check out Jasper Forest for a nice overlook. If you are simply aching to walk among these ancients, head to the Crystal Forest trail for just under a mile stroll.

Petrified Forest is a shadow of its former glory, in more ways than one. Over the years, looters have  taken their toll—which is especially evident when you see the pictures of how Jasper Forest used to look. These trees literally used to cover the ground. Taking souvenirs is utterly forbidden, and mentioned ad nauseum on tours, signs, and by rangers. I was convinced our ride was going to be searched by a petrified wood sniffing K-9 unit on the way out, but I suppose such a dog would be too expensive to train. The irony is the number of petrified trinkets you can buy freely in the gift shop, as well as from the private businesses just outside of the park itself. It's a punishable crime to pick up a pebble from the ground, but the park will happily sell you some. Ah, the wonders of federal government ...

• Click here for a map to Petrified Forest National Park.

Good to Know:

• Entry fee to the Petrified National Forest is $10 per vehicle.
• Hours for the park change by season, varying from 7am to 7pm.
• Check the park Website for special activities.
• Stop in Holbrook on your way out for a hilarious dinosaur display and some grub. It's the closest town, and frequently has traditional Navajo and other native festivals.

Ish You Need: Some decent hiking shoes, and by all you hold dear on this earth—plenty of water. Light skinned folks, I know nine times out of ten we can get away with no sunscreen, but don't play that here. After a few hours of driving and strolling around in a 'beater, these shoulders were colorful as neapolitan ice cream.

Get Gone: From Phoenix, head to the 87 North towards Payson for around 74 miles. In Payson turn right onto AZ 260 East for another 53 miles. You will hit Heber next and turn left on the AZ 277 North, then  after just 7 miles turn left again onto the AZ 377 North/Dry Lakes Road. Turn left when you hit the 77 North, then finally right once you hit the Interstate 40 East. If you haven't turned back, its exit 311. Travel time: Give yourself four hours for this monster drive. If you can stand an hour longer, map a course up route 60 instead. The scenery through some of the gorges that way might salvage your trip!

In the Neighborhood:

• Holbrook
• Sitgreaves National Park
• Homolovi Ruins State Park
• Show Low

Escape Rating:
Interesting, but meant for true desert or geology aficionados (read: nuts), only.

Five Stars: Like Jordan on a hot streak—you can't miss this.
Four Stars: More potential fun than the Suns on a fast break.
Three Stars: A decent use of gas so you might as well check it out.
Two Stars: Trips like these are why they invented Tivo.
One Star: Better than sitting at home with no AC—just barely.

Arizona Travel Escapes #3: Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

Arizona Travel Escapes is a travel guide to showcase the many must-see spots in AZ! Whether you are looking for that perfect romantic getaway, or an adrenaline rush that will turn your hair white, check in with PhxSoul.com for the latest and greatest. We'll clue you in on the best route, the gear you'll need, and rate how every destination stacks up against all the rest.

Submitted by DaVaun Sanders

The Business: When people think of Arizona, three things typically come to mind: desert, cacti and the Grand Canyon. Well now you can add volcanoes to that list! But they aren't active, says you? Details, mere details! This Travel Escape gives you all of the razor sharp black igneous rock you can handle, in one of the most barren landscapes imaginable. So if your church's singles ministry needs a serious refresher on clean living, we have a spot for your next revival that is en fuego!

You might think your Twitter feed is broken, because the landscape at Sunset Crater looks like a disaster that occurred within the last few years. In reality the eruptions that wiped out this terrain happened just shy of a thousand years ago. The devastation is so complete that the local vegetation can scarcely eke out an existence. This is what keeps the slopes of Sunset Crater as barren as when the lava finally cooled all those years ago.

There is a small museum here if seismography and volcanism gets you warm and fuzzy inside. Several overlooks exist as you drive down the main road, with views of rugged black lava fields. Ponderosa pine is the default tree here, but there are occasional copses of aspen trees, also struggling to survive. Their white bark makes for an interesting contrast with the black rock. Your main stop will be the Lava Flow Trail, which offers a one mile jaunt that loops near the base of Sunset Crater itself. The park no longer allows any hiking to the summit for a peek, due to erosion concerns. Bummer, since 1973.

On the Lava Flow Trail, you'll get to see several cool features, minus the inconvenience of standing near life threatening molten rock. The mild trail is paved for a quarter mile, and gravel for the rest of the way. You'll see collapsed lava tubes, forming jagged ravines across the ground. Of particular interest are the spatter cones, a dome-like bubble of lava wide enough to parallel park inside. The top is caved in from being climbed on by so many intrepid sightseers—miffed at not being able to hike the cinder cone, no doubt. The urge will be strong, but try to resist.

Sunset Crater Volcano is one of roughly 600 in this region, which is known as the San Francisco Volcano Field. Head to Lenox Crater—which is a steeper hike, though not as long—or Cinder Hills Overlook for some great views of the surrounding cinder cones. Wishing you the best Escapes!

• Click here for a map to Sunset Crater.

Good to Know:

• Off-trail hiking is not permitted in the Monument. Your shoes can breathe a sigh of relief for that. So can your pets for that matter—they need to stay on leashes, and on trails at all times.
• Park hours are 9 am to 5pm November through April, and 8am to 5pm from May through October.
• The fee is $5.00 per person for Sunset Crater, but also includes admission to nearby Wupatki National Monument. That will last you seven days, so keep your receipt if you are wandering around the area. Deals make the world go round!
• Always check the weather for any travel destination in northern Arizona. Our visit started out extremely windy, but died down on the Lava Flow Trail. Remember it can and will snow up here in winter months!
• Amazingly enough, there is a true to life ice cave which the surrounding rock insulates year round. Access is currently forbidden but you can feel a cool draft at the blocked entrance.

Ish You Need: Hiking shoes and water, the usual. There are spots to camp just outside of the park if that tickles your fancy. There are picnic tables near the visitor center if you want to hunker down and grub while you are there, but the park itself has no food service.

Get Gone: From Phoenix, hit the I-17 North headed to Flagstaff. Take exit 340A onto the I-40 East and  ride that for five miles. Take exit 201 headed towards US 89 North, then turn left at Country Club Drive. After half a mile take your second right onto the US 89 North. Turn right onto Fire Road 545 and follow that 4 miles in and you are there. Travel time: Just shy of three hours, but plan for more. You will be tempted to hang around the Flagstaff area for the cool old-school downtown area, or more area parks.

In the Neighborhood:

• Wupatki National Monument
• Flagstaff
• Meteor Crater
• Walnut Canyon

Escape Rating:
Not a destination by itself, but definitely take a look if you are road tripping in the area.

Five Stars: Like Jordan on a hot streak—you can't miss this.
Four Stars: More potential fun than the Suns on a fast break.
Three Stars: A decent use of gas so you might as well check it out.
Two Stars: Trips like these are why they invented Tivo.
One Star: Better than sitting at home with no AC—just barely.

 

Recently Moved to Arizona? Share Your Story About How You Found Work Here

I receive a lot of e-mails from black people throughout the country who are interested in moving to the Phoenix metropolitan area.

Many of our future Arizonans want to know how it easy or difficult it has been for "transplants" to find a job here.

I would think that it depends on your field, your job history, your experience, your education, your references and how you conduct yourself in interviews. It also helps to have personal connections within the companies that you wish to work for.

The purpose of this article is to find out from "transplants" what you did to find a job in Arizona.

• How easy or difficult was your job hunting experience?
• Do you think this is a good time for people to move to Arizona?
• What advice do you have for job seekers?

Please share your stories/tips in the Comments area at the bottom of this article.

Arizona Travel Escapes #1: Tonto Natural Bridge State Park

We hear it time and time again at PhxSoul.com: “It's so boring in Arizona, there's nothing to do.” Enough with this ridiculous foolery! To combat this, err, desert myth, we present to you Arizona Travel Escapes—a travel guide to showcase the many must-see spots in AZ! If you can afford a tank of regular unleaded, we're gonna get your outdoor game more range than Steve Nash. Whether you are looking for that perfect romantic getaway, or an adrenaline rush that will turn your hair white—check in with PhxSoul.com for the latest and greatest. We'll clue you in on the best route, the gear you'll need, and rate how every destination stacks up against all the rest.

Wishing you the very BEST escapes!
-PhxSoul.com travel staff

Submitted by DaVaun Sanders

The Business: The Tonto Natural Bridge was the hands down pick for the very first review of this series. We first came across this gem during a 'throw-dart-at-map' road trip, and constantly look for excuses to head back. You will too.

The Tonto Natural Bridge could best be described as an enormous outdoor cave, at 183 feet tall and 400 feet deep, it is the largest naturally occurring travertine bridge in the world. Yes sir! The merry little Pine Creek that helped sculpt the bridge flows through year-round, making this a perfect hideaway in case the revolution comes to Arizona. Always have a back up plan, kinfolk.

Four viewpoints are available on the top, looking down into the gorge and creek bed below.  But to truly experience the magic of this place, you need to hit the Gowan Trail. It's a half mile long and moderately steep, but no sweat if you are in somewhat decent shape. (Don't scoff at anyone resting on the benches provided while you head down—they will look tempting on the trip up!)

The trail turns into a boardwalk that spans Pine Creek before ending at an observation deck directly before the Natural Bridge. Honestly, this has to be one of the most peaceful spots on Earth. A brook at the tip top of the bridge 180 feet overhead spills down into mist, so the boulders before you are damp and covered with moss. You can venture into the interior when the creek isn't too high, just be careful not to slip on the rocks and bust your head open, like I almost did.

The pools inside are still and reflective. Fat water droplets fall so often you almost want to look up for signs of rain, forgetting the ceiling overhead. To the left is a huge ledge, which undoubtedly came in handy when David Gowan, the 'discoverer' of the Bridge, who found it while hiding from Apaches in 1877. Sadly, you can't get up there without a ladder—no they won't let you bring one down. I tried. A miniature waterfall towards the back of the Bridge completes the interior with a flourish.

Head topside for a picnic and you may spot javelina, deer or rabbits. Leave your stew pots at home—no huntin' 'round here. There are two more trails to consider. Pine Creek Trail takes you around the back side of the Bridge, and the Waterfall Trail is a short set of stairs down to some moss covered caves. The actual waterfall can be less than inspiring if you go during a dry time of year.

Check out the gift shop for memorabilia, trinkets, and some eerie travertine formations. The rangers and staff here are great, they tell great stories and are really friendly. There is a restored lodge if you are thinking of an overnight stay, call the park at 928-476-0202 for availability.

View Larger Map

Good to Know:

• The Tonto Natural Bridge is open Thursday through Monday, from 8 am to 6 pm.
• Adults pay $5.00, youth ages 7-13 are $2.00. Children are free.
• Portable toilets and picnic ramadas are on site.
• Great day or half-day trip, especially if you are sightseeing along the Mogollon Rim.
• Great place to go mellow out and recharge—unless your visit just happens to coincide with some school field trip.
• The park would have closed this year due to state budgeting woes, but kept the gates open thanks to the city of Payson stepping up big.
• A printable map of the park for your planning convenience. Who's got your back?

Ish You Need: The basics—good shoes and plenty of water. There are picnic areas up top, so definitely consider bringing a basket if you want to get your snuggle on. Do remember the park closes by 6 pm, lovebirds. 

Get Gone: This is a straight shot from Phoenix. Make your way to the 202 in Mesa and take the Country Club exit. Head north on State Route 87 for 75 miles towards Payson. Stay on the 87 through Payson, the Natural Bridge is about 11 miles north of town—watch for a brown sign and hang a left. Follow Forest Road NF 583 down to the lodge. Travel time: Two hours—just don't get stuck behind 18-wheelers and grannies on the highway!

In the Neighborhood: 

• West Clear Creek
• Tonto Creek
• Payson
• Mogollon Rim

Escape Rating:
A beautiful and unique sight that is not crowded, expensive or distant ...

Five Stars: Like Jordan on a hot streak—you can't miss this.
Four Stars: More potential fun than the Suns on a fast break.
Three Stars: A decent use of gas so you might as well check it out.
Two Stars: Trips like these are why they invented Tivo.
One Star: Better than sitting at home with no AC—just barely.

Photos by DaVaun Sanders and Sharla Powell White

HB 2281 Is a Lesson for African Americans in Arizona - We Need to STAY Informed about the Legislative Process!

Submitted by Tremaine Jasper, Owner of PhxSoul.com

Have you read HB 2281? The official document is only five pages long and I strongly encourage African Americans to become educated before speaking out against it.

HB 2281 prohibits schools from having courses which "promote the overthrow of the United States government," "promote resentment toward a race or class of people," "are designed primarily for pupils of a particular ethnic group," or "advocate ethnic solidarity instead of treatment of pupils as individuals.

This bill specifically targets an ethnic-studies curriculum in the Tucson Unified School District that supposedly teaches La Raza studies (Mexican-American studies) that has "promoted resentment toward one race" according to Tom Horne, the state superintendent of public instruction.

Depending on the media slant that you read, this ethnic-studies program is academically successful and students of all races are actively involved in the classes OR it is a one-sided ethnic class that promotes a “radical separatist agenda” and “revolutionary curriculum.”

Since there are so many opposing views, it's difficult to tell who's right and who's wrong!

I haven't sat in the classes to see if the teachers are spewing hate against white people. If so, this program is dead wrong.

However, if you read comments from the actual students, the classes aren’t designed for just one race. The classes consist of students of all ethnicities and races. One pupil even says, “We’re not planning any revolutions. We’re not being anti-American. So far, all I’ve seen is patriotism in the class; our love for the U.S.” Read this article for the students' perspective on the Tucson's ethnic studies program.  

For everyone who says that the school won't be allowed to teach African American history, HB 2281 clearly states that it DOES NOT "restrict or prohibit the instruction of the holocaust, any other instance of genocide or this historical oppression of a particular group of people based on ethnicity, race, or class."

In other words, African American history classes are still OK.

But HB 2281 is extremely damaging because it will make our teachers extremely apprehensive about how they educate our youth about our history and our current accomplishments. Teachers are already handcuffed by reduced budgets - now they have to worry about whether their curriculum will offend our sensitive white politicians! That's just ridiculous!

I'm absolutely disgusted with how our state government is introducing all of this racially motivated legislation! It's clear to me that certain politicians are waging all-out war against Hispanics! They are not concerned how Arizona's citizens and the rest of the world will react to their ignorant ideas. As a result, Arizona is losing millions of dollars due to boycotts and reduced tourism!

Moreover, I'm disturbed at how these proposals seem to just creep up on everyone! Believe it or not, the media provided news coverage about SB 1070 and HB 2281 well before both laws were signed by Gov. Jan Brewer.

We're still not out of the woods ... more racist agendas are on the way! We need to learn from SB 1070 and HB 2281 and do a better job or reading our newspapers and watching news programs so we can stay in the know. And then we need to challenge our politicians - especially our African American politicans and the Arizona African American Legislative and Leadership Conference - to stand up and put a halt to these misguided laws!

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BlackAtlas.com - African American Travel Website Takes Flight @BlackAtlas

Have you been wanting to travel the world but needed reviews and advice about the African American experience in your desired destinations?

Well, Nelson George and American Airlines have teamed up to create BlackAtlas.com, a Website that features information that African American travelers should enjoy because much of the content is written by African Americans! George is the host of VH1 Soul Cities (amazing TV show) and he is an award-winning author, filmmaker and TV show producer.

You can read about the black experience in dozens of international and U.S. cities such as London, Barcelona, Paris, Rome, Montego Bay, San Francisco, Charlotte, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Miami, Dallas and Chicago!

BlackAtlas.com, which was launched in October 2009, is an interactive Website, meaning that you can submit your own stories about places you have visited and make Comments about the content that others have contributed. The Website features videos, exclusive memberships and the ability for you to make flight reservations.

PhxSoul.com and Mimi Ahmed Photography partnered with the BlackAtlas.com staff to provide the majority of the content about Phoenix. Unfortunately we weren't credited on the Website, but please believe that most of the writings and photos came from us!

If you love traveling and want a black outlook on places near and far away, visit BlackAtlas.com today.

New America Media Taps PhxSoul.com to Serve as an Environmental News Platform for African Americans in Phoenix

Two resounding themes in Barack Obama's 2008 presidential campaign were "change" and the "environment."

Historically, we haven't invested much energy in improving the quality of our air, land and water resources on Earth. Yes, many of us recycle and some of us have gone "green" in our homes and offices. But for the most part, you don't see too many African Americans getting involved with environmental issues of today.

I have to admit that I am one of those people who hasn't paid much attention to environmental topics. But I do know that if I want our planet to be a safe place to live for centuries to come, I and ALL African Americans must heed President Obama's message and change ...

In October 2009, PhxSoul.com took its first step toward to helping Phoenix's African American community become more educated and involved. PhxSoul.com was invited by New America Media to participate in a Summit on the Environment which featured ethnic journalists from the Southwest. New America Media is the country's first and largest national collaboration, representing more than 2,000 ethnic and youth news organizations. The Summit on the Environment was held at the Walter Cronkite of the Journalism at ASU's Downtown Campus in Phoenix.

During the morning session, PhxSoul.com, the Arizona Informant, Southwest Green and the African American Voice (Colorado) represented the black point of view regarding the environment. We discussed subjects ranging from racism, the Fisher Sand and Gravel air pollution problem in south Phoenix, and the need for more financial resources so we can devote more time to covering the environment. 

However, my main reality check from the Summit is that people throughout the nation see PhxSoul.com as a major gateway to the black community in Phoenix. Since we live in the fifth-largest city in the United States, we are an important market! Ultimately, New America Media wants PhxSoul.com to become a vital voice in its efforts to share Arizona's African American environmental news with the rest of the country. Therefore, PhxSoul.com has to work harder to get up to speed on this important subject. I encourage any local experts to contact PhxSoul.com so we can work together to effectively educate our people here. In the coming months, PhxSoul.com aims to publish more information that could impact your way of life from an environmental, economic, medical and/or political standpoint!

I hope PhxSoul.com readers embrace the emerging partnership with New America Media because there is so much for us to share with and learn from other ethnicities!