Blavity Inc. and American Express Team Up to Spotlight Black-Owned Small Businesses at AfroTech
AUSTIN, Texas - November 16, 2022 - (Newswire.com)
Blavity Inc., the corporation behind AfroTech, 21Ninety, Travel Noire, Shadow & Act, and Blavity News, announced American Express' presence at the AfroTech Conference — running through Nov. 17, 2022, at the Austin Convention Center in Texas. The Conference, a global gathering of inclusive tech companies and innovators, features a Small Business Marketplace for Austin-based Black-owned brands hosted by American Express.
Small businesses are imperative for the American economy to thrive, and the AfroTech Conference is at the forefront of assisting them. Blavity Inc. and American Express are partnering to bring visibility to these local Black-owned brands at the AfroTech Conference. The Small Business Marketplace features nine brands local to Austin including The Coy Collection, eleMINT Skin, New Origin Shop, Ivelisse Designs, Rosen Skincare, Skin Joy Dermatology, Soul Popped, Terminal B., and Trivia For Us.
The Small Business Marketplace will also include four additional Black-owned brands from across the country on a rotating basis. These include Shampoo Time, BlkGrn, Blavity.org, and JustBriFree Well-Being.
The Small Business Marketplace is just one of the many ways that American Express is supporting Black-owned businesses and raising the bar on supply chain diversity. American Express is committed to providing small businesses access to funding, resources, and tools. This includes the Small Business Progress Loan from Accion Opportunity Fund. With an investment from American Express, Accion Opportunity Fund offers more small businesses access to loans. Small business owners can learn more about the variety of American Express' resources available to them here.
"American Express has long-advocated for the success of small businesses through a myriad of programs," said Anré Williams, CEO, American Express National Bank & Group President, Enterprise Services, American Express. "As we continue to create innovative products and services, we're also focused on building a more diverse supply chain, and have committed to increasing our spend with Black-owned suppliers to at least $100 million annually by the end of 2024."
Williams spoke about this and other American Express initiatives at this year's AfroTech conference in a conversation moderated by Frank Holland of CNBC.
"We're excited to see American Express activate the Small Business Marketplace at AfroTech to bring visibility to local Black-owned small businesses and their importance to the overall supply chain," said Blavity Inc. founder and CEO Morgan DeBaun. "The Marketplace is a great opportunity for these businesses to connect with potential customers and investors in person. AfroTech Conference is the perfect place to support them."
This year's AfroTech event brings together more than 300 brands and thousands of Black professionals in Austin. AfroTech Conference will also welcome key innovators and entrepreneurs across tech, entertainment, and business industries. View AfroTech Conference's full 2022 agenda HERE.
To stay up to date on speaker and entertainment announcements, download the AfroTech Conference app for Apple and Android or follow @afrotech on Twitter.
Image credit from left to right: Fay Breedlove, Co-Founder of Terminal B: Aliciea Gay of ByBlack: Sierra Lewis, Owner of New Origin Shop: Shauntavia Ward, Founder and CEO of eleMINT Skin: Anré Williams, Chief Executive Officer, American Express National Bank & Group President, Enterprise Services: De J. Lozada, Owner of Soul Popped: Ezeugo Anukem, ByBlack: Deydra Bringas, Trivia For Us
ABOUT BLAVITY INC.
Blavity Inc. is a technology and media corporation founded in 2014 around a simple idea: Enable Black millennials to tell their own stories. Today, Blavity is home to the largest network of platforms and lifestyle brands serving Black millennials and Gen Z through original content, video, and unique experiences. The company has grown into a market leader for Black media, reaching over 250 million millennials per month through its growing brand portfolio, including Blavity News, 21Ninety, AfroTech, Travel Noire, Shadow & Act, Blavity Culture Ad Network, and Blavity TV.
ABOUT AMERICAN EXPRESS
American Express is a globally integrated payments company, providing customers with access to products, insights and experiences that enrich lives and build business success. Learn more at americanexpress.com and connect with us on facebook.com/americanexpress, instagram.com/americanexpress, linkedin.com/company/american-express, twitter.com/americanexpress, and youtube.com/americanexpress.
Key links to products, services and corporate responsibility information: personal cards, business cards and services, travel services, gift cards, prepaid cards, merchant services, Accertify, Kabbage, Resy, corporate card, business travel, diversity and inclusion, corporate responsibility and Environmental, Social, and Governance reports.
Contact Information:
Elizabeth Schmidt
Vice President of Marketing and Communications
[email protected]
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Original Source: Blavity Inc. and American Express Team Up to Spotlight Black-Owned Small Businesses at AfroTech
Carly and Charly’s New Book ‘Let’s Go Horseback Riding’ is a Delightful Story of Two Twin Cats Who Wish to Ride Horses but Must...
Fulton Books author Carly and Charly, twin cats who enjoy sharing messages of hope and love through their stories, have completed their most recent book "Let's Go Horseback Riding": a captivating tale of two cats who must learn the ropes if they are to achieve their goal of going horseback riding.
"'Let's Go Horseback Riding' tells the story of two young twin shelter cats, Carly and Charly, as they take on the challenge of horseback riding," writes Carly and Charly. "Carly has big ideas and is ready to go—as long as Charly does all the planning.
"As it turns out, it's not as easy as it sounds for cats to ride horses. In this adventure, they search for cat-size equines, as well as the appropriate cat equipment and gear. There are some issues with cats on saddles! Who knew?
"Carly and Charly groom their mounts, learn basic riding skills, and the essential dos and don'ts of riding a horse. They saddle up and then head out on an exciting trail ride—all in cat style. The cats have a lot of fun in the process and create fond memories of another successful cat adventure."
Published by Fulton Books, Carly and Charly's book is an engaging story full of vibrant artwork and adorable characters that are sure to capture the hearts and imaginations of young readers.
Readers who wish to experience this enthralling work can purchase "Let's Go Horseback Riding" at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes store, Amazon, Google Play, or Barnes & Noble.
Please direct all media inquiries to Author Support via email at [email protected] or via telephone at 877-210-0816.
Contact Information:
Media Relations
[email protected]
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Original Source: Carly and Charly's New Book 'Let's Go Horseback Riding' is a Delightful Story of Two Twin Cats Who Wish to Ride Horses but Must First Learn How to Do So
Laurie Johnson’s New Book “Reflections” is a Stirring Collection of Poems That Encourages Readers to Seek Out and Enjoy the Fleeting Precious Moments of...
Fulton Books author Laurie Johnson, a proud mother and grandmother who uses writing to relax and put her thoughts into perspective, has completed her most recent book "Reflections": a powerful and stunning poetic journey that explores the opportunities life holds for those with courage enough to live each day to the fullest and enjoy every possible moment.
"Grab a cup of coffee or a glass of iced tea and take a walk with me through this book of reflections in which you will find the beauty of love, life, and yes, some heartbreak and tears," writes Johnson. "Share the dreams and memories with me from day to day. Some memories and thoughts or just fantasy feel the sweetness and promise of a new day dawning. Life is so full of diversity and change, some good days and some bad, and most of which we have no control of.
"As you read some pages, you can almost hear the laughter and joy; others you may feel the heartbreak and tears. As in our life, we must search and find those precious moments or look back to those memories. Sometimes we find the joy in the searching rather than in the finding. There will be pages you connect with, and others will make you wonder. We all have that need to reach out and just know that we have been there. There is a healing in the written words to those whose hearts they speak to. So, as you thumb through these reflections of my life and thoughts, I hope that you feel the strength and courage that it takes to just live life. Sit back and feel the warmth of the sun or the freshness of the morning dew. Life is so worth living to the fullest of our ability. I hope this brings to mind all the memories and treasures hidden away and forgotten."
Published by Fulton Books, Laurie Johnson's book is a moving and impactful series that encourages personal growth and healing as one moves from day to day, seeking out life's greatest joys in every minute of the day. With an incredible gift for prose, Johnson crafts a fascinating read that is sure to connect with those who take the first few steps with her on this enlightening journey.
Readers who wish to experience this irreverent work can purchase "Reflections" at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes store, Amazon, Google Play, or Barnes and Noble.
Please direct all media inquiries to Author Support via email at [email protected] or via telephone at 877-210-0816.
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Media Relations
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Original Source: Laurie Johnson's New Book "Reflections" is a Stirring Collection of Poems That Encourages Readers to Seek Out and Enjoy the Fleeting Precious Moments of Life.
Walt Prothero’s New Book ‘The Fair Chase Chronicles’ is a Thrilling Collection of Stories That Explore How Hunting Must Change in the Modern Age...
Fulton Books author Walt Prothero, who teaches university writing and biology and has worked as a wildlife research biologist and served as editors at Field & Stream, Outdoor Life, Sports Afield and Wild Sheep magazines, has completed his most recent book "The Fair Chase Chronicles": a thought-provoking read that examines the state of hunting and the obstacles that must be overcome if the sport of hunting is to remain relevant and alive in a modern world.
"The first part of this book deals with ethics and philosophy of modern hunting, and what hunters must do today to keep hunting alive tomorrow, including fair-chase hunting. The first part of the book is also liberally sprinkled with hunting anecdotes, the oldest form of human communication," writes Prothero.
"The second portion of the book consists of hunting stories, all with a common theme—fair-chase hunting. If hunting is to survive into the 21st century, it must evolve as humans have evolved. Of course, the reader may read a story simply for the enjoyment. [I have] graced the masthead of Field & Stream, Outdoor Life, Sports Afield and Wild Sheep magazines and readers of such magazines are seldom interested in ethics or philosophy.
"The short narratives in this tome are as taut and adrenaline-pumping as any novel, and few readers will yawn at stalking man-eating crocodiles; at charging grizzlies and elephants; of solo expeditions into the Far-North wilderness; of chasing polar bears by dogsled on the Arctic Ocean icepack."
Published by Fulton Books, Walt Prothero's book will captivate audiences everywhere as they follow along on various hunting expeditions, facing off against dangerous game in the pursuit of the hunt. Ultimately, Prothero provides an eye-opening analysis of hunting, and how it can continue to thrive and serve communities throughout the world.
Readers who wish to experience this enlightening work can purchase "The Fair Chase Chronicles" at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes Store, Amazon, Google Play, or Barnes & Noble.
Please direct all media inquiries to Author Support via email at [email protected] or via telephone at 877-210-0816.
Contact Information:
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Original Source: Walt Prothero's New Book 'The Fair Chase Chronicles' is a Thrilling Collection of Stories That Explore How Hunting Must Change in the Modern Age if It is to Survive
Author Marlana DeMarco Hogan’s New Book ‘Growing Up in the Pasta Zone’ is a Charming Tale That Follows Three Young Boys Whose Families Gather...
Marlana DeMarco Hogan, who earned a teaching degree in Italian language and culture from Rutgers University and has had a teaching career spanning 25 years, has completed her new book "Growing Up in the Pasta Zone": a delightful and heartwarming story of a beloved family tradition for an Italian American family that brings everyone closer together and requires them to work as a team to accomplish something beautiful.
"'Growing Up in the Pasta Zone' is a story about three little hardworking boys and the joy they find while helping to continue their annual family tradition of making tomato sauce together," writes Hogan. "Every step is filled with fun and excitement, from collecting firewood to preparing the homemade sauce outside on an open fire. Treasured memories are made…in the pasta zone."
Published by Newman Springs Publishing, Marlana DeMarco Hogan's adorable tale is inspired by her own upbringing as a child in a loving, traditional Italian American household. With vibrant artwork and a heartwarming message, readers of all backgrounds will enjoy this timeless tale of a family joyfully keeping old traditions alive while making new memories together during special family gatherings.
Readers who wish to experience this uplifting work can purchase "Growing Up in the Pasta Zone" at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iBooks Store, Amazon, or Barnes and Noble.
For additional information or media inquiries, contact Newman Springs Publishing at 732-243-8512.
About Newman Springs Publishing:
Newman Springs Publishing is a full-service publishing house for serious authors. Each title produced by Newman Springs Publishing undergoes every step of the professional publishing process, including editing, layout, cover design, circulation, distribution, and publicity. All titles are made available in both e-book and print formats. Newman Springs Publishing distributes to tens of thousands of retail outlets throughout North America and internationally. All manuscripts in any genre are welcome to be submitted for review; if the manuscript meets the necessary criteria and is accepted for publication, Newman Springs Publishing will work closely with the author to bring the book to the retail market for a relatively inexpensive initial investment.
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Original Source: Author Marlana DeMarco Hogan's New Book 'Growing Up in the Pasta Zone' is a Charming Tale That Follows Three Young Boys Whose Families Gather for a Unique Tradition
Five-Time Grammy® Nominee David Arkenstone Kicks Off 18-Date, 3-State A Winter’s Eve Concert Tour in Colorado to Spark Your Holiday Spirit
Five-Time Grammy® Nominee David Arkenstone, known for his 60+ albums, numerous film and game score compositions, and unforgettable themes for NBC (The Kentucky Derby, US Figure Skating, Premier League soccer, and more), is bringing his captivating holiday show A Winter's Eve Concert with David Arkenstone & Friends to Idaho Springs (12/1), Fort Collins (12/2), Denver (12/3), Colorado Springs (12/4), Buena Vista (12/6), Salida (12/7), Evergreen (12/8), Palmer Lake (12/9), Boulder (12/10), and Longmont (12/11) before continuing on to Arizona and California. This candlelit evening will feature the debut of some of his recent neo-classical compositions with strings, flutes, and percussion, his chart-topping favorites reimagined and performed in exciting new arrangements, and songs from his classic albums Christmas Spirit, Celtic Christmas, and Christmas Lounge, plus holiday fan favorites to warm the heart and spark the holiday spirit - taking concertgoers on a winter odyssey to be remembered for years to come.
Called "The most enchanting and magical music ever to be on our stage" by Yuma Historic Theatre, David's music has long been synonymous with the holidays and goes hand in hand with the other classic Christmas experiences that Coloradans hold so dear. Those who love attending Denver Christkindlmarket, Denver Zoo Lights, Denver Botanic Gardens' Blossoms of Light, or other live holiday events that light up the local Christmas season will find themselves enraptured by A Winter's Eve with David Arkenstone & Friends.
David's concert is an enchanting journey from first note to last, taking us from a peaceful stroll through untouched snow to the frenetic and joyous yuletide energy of the season. You will find yourself wrapped in memories of ice skating with loved ones or drinking warm cider on a chilly winter night, snow softly falling all around.
In anticipation of A Winter's Eve Concert, David says, "I'm very excited to be touring again with my holiday show. We've definitely missed performing live. My band and I have a fun evening planned for you with holiday favorites and my own winter-inspired songs. I'm hoping to reconnect with a lot of my fans and see some snow along the way!"
A Winter's Eve Concert with David Arkenstone & Friends marks David's live concert return to Colorado after nearly a decade. Receiving Grammy® nominations in 2022, 2020, 2005, 2001, and 1992, David's music is often influenced by the beauty of nature, Native American traditions, Celtic dance, medieval folklore, and the realm of J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle Earth. This concert will embrace Colorado with glorious music of the holiday season, passionate compositions, heartwarming stories, and virtuoso musicianship.
Tickets are on sale now for A Winter's Eve Concert with David Arkenstone & Friends at davidarkenstone.com. Attendees may opt for a VIP Experience that includes a post-show meet & greet, preferred seating, lanyard with tour laminate, a signed photo, and a custom compilation CD. For more information and complete tour updates, visit davidarkenstone.com.
To schedule an interview with David Arkenstone or reserve your guest spot at one of the performances, please reach out to [email protected] or (818) 481-2600 or [email protected].
About David Arkenstone
5-time Grammy® Nominee David Arkenstone has established himself as one of the best contemporary instrumentalists of our time. This visionary continues to create distinctive tracks that inspire the imagination. A musical storyteller, David is passionate about taking listeners on a journey, creating sonic tapestries that evoke every emotion. "I envision a place where I would like to go, or an adventure I would like to take, and let my imagination run free," says David. "I've gotten countless messages from listeners who love to take these journeys with me. I'm sometimes surprised by how powerfully people respond to my music."
David enjoys touring and meeting his fans from around the world. "One of the most exciting things about performing live is the interaction I have with the audience. It's very different than making a recording, where you're not sure who will be listening to it. A lot of the roots of our musicianship come into focus in a live situation. You're in the moment, you perform your best, and many times reach new heights - then it's gone and on to the next one!"
Contact Information:
Cynthia Gage
Colorado Tour Manager
[email protected]
818-481-2600
Sarah Shuel
Publicist
[email protected]
720-936-0020
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Original Source: Five-Time Grammy® Nominee David Arkenstone Kicks Off 18-Date, 3-State A Winter's Eve Concert Tour in Colorado to Spark Your Holiday Spirit
