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LATINO BUSINESS POW WOW, JUNE 12TH!

The New York State Hispanic Coalition Chamber of Commerce of New York City in conjunction the Puerto Rican Day Parade Association are inviting all the New York City members of the NYSHCCOC, including Puerto Rico’s Chamber Presidents & business members to participate at the first Puerto Rican Hispanic Business Summit taking place at Bank Of New York Mellon in NYC, Friday, June 12th 9:30am-5:30pm.

The Puerto Rican Day Parade takes place annually along Fifth Avenue in New York City, on the second Sunday in June, in honor of the nearly 4 million people of Puerto Rican birth or heritage residing in the mainland U.S. The parade always attracts many celebrities, both Puerto Rican and of Puerto Rican heritage, and many politicians. The Puerto Rican parade has grown to become one of the largest parades in New York City, with nearly two million spectators annually making it one of the largest outdoor events in the United States.

The New York State Coalition of Hispanic Chambers Of Commerce (NYSCHCC) is the leading regional advocate for the economic and civic interests of the Hispanic business community in boroughs such as Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens, & Manhattan in NYC. As such, the NYSCHCC serves as the Leader of New York's Hispanic Chambers of Commerce.  NYSCHCC represents thousands of businesses in the Greater New York Region, ranging in size from start-ups to multi-national corporations, making the NYSCHCC the largest chamber of commerce in the State.

The Puerto Rican Hispanic Business Summit is a 1 day event in which local and Puerto Rico’s businesses get to network, participate in a roundtable and listen to key panel speakers leading in the industry of Corporate & Government contracts.  This will give many business in Puerto Rico an opportunity to do business in New York State and meet the trail blazers in the industry.

Attendees will get an opportunity to participate in an series of events after the Summit, such as the closing Reception hosted by the Chairman of the USHCC, Ignacio Veloz, participate in the Puerto Rican Day Parade and go to the Celebration Gala.

Throughout the weekend Chamber members will discuss the importance of doing business with government institutions, discover tremendous opportunities that NYC has in terms of construction, as well as investment opportunities.  

BUY TICKETS: http://nys-coalition-of-hispanic-chamber-of-commerce.ticketleap.com/prhbs-english/

LEARN MORE AT www.PRHBS.com

Latinas and Mothers Day- What to get your Mami!

Mother's Day is almost here. Mark your calendars for May 10th, if you haven't already.  Latina moms will say Mother's Day is every day, but in actuality Mothers Day is once a year and has particular significance in Hispanic households. It is a day where all family, close and extended family, gather to honor all the mamás, tías, and abuelitas. Any recognition and sign of affection is going to make your mami very happy on Mother's Day, and in the end it's never about the size of the gift or how much you spent on it. It's about the fact that you got her a gift to express your love and gratitude for her.

This year for Mother's Day we suggest you make your mom a homemade gift. Anything else they can buy themselves or receive from someone else, but a homemade gift is something she will remember and cherish for years to come. Below are some ideas for homemade gifts.

1) Family Scrapbook: Browse through family pictures and pull out the best memories.  Include childhood pics and present day pics that illustrate how much your mom means to you.  Be creative and include things mami says, songs she likes, maybe even tickets from events you guys went together too.  Be creative with it!

2) Spa day at home: Make your mom feel extra special on this day by letting her sit and relax while you whip up some homemade facial masks, paint her nails, give her a massage, etc. This is something the whole family can get involve with and the younger siblings will love this one. Overall it should be a relaxing experience for your mom.

3) Coupons:  What mom doesn’t like coupons. Make a booklet and fill it up with coupons that your mom can use to make her life easier. Coupons can say things like "Day off from cooking," or "Your turn to vacuum." Every coupon book is different depending on your mom. And the coupons should ever expire, giving her enough time to use them all.

4) Flowers: If you are just way too busy and don't have the time to make a homemade gift, you can buy your mom some flowers. All moms love flowers! Make them unique by including more ribbon or your own wrapping paper. Maybe even decorate the vase, to involve the homemade aspect to your gift.

These homemade gifts require time and effort, less money, and more love. In the end these gifts will be more valuable to you and your mom. So get busy and start making something special for your mom, and all other mother figures in your familia. Don't forget to have the tissues in hand to dry her tears of joy when she sees your beautiful handmade gift.

Spring Forward: Florals are back: 5 Must Haves!

With the weather finally getting nicer, and no more snow, it is actually feeling like spring! This means it's time to ditch the coats, and salty stained boots (thanks snow), and time to start showing some skin and making bold fashion statements. Check out the top five spring must haves below, which can easily be carried into Summer for those of us on a budget.

1) Bold Florals: Florals are back and are possibly the biggest trend of this spring. Not just any floral, but bold florals. This spring it's all about bigger and more colorful florals to make a statement. Whether it's on a top, pants, or handbag florals are a Spring/Summer must have!

2) Sheer: This spring it's all about showing skin through sheer panels. This look is sexy yet mysterious and can be worn many ways. Through a high slit, or sheer sleeves on a blouse, this look is for everyone.

3) Ruffles: We see ruffles almost every season but this spring it's all about intense ruffles. The bigger the ruffle, the better! Ruffles will be seen a lot in off the shoulder tops.

4) Color Blocking: Color blocking has returned.  It's all about taking bold opposites on the color wheel, and pairing them up with the widest contrast possible. Like purple and yellow, and green and red, colors you wouldn’t necessarily put together.

5) Fringe: This boho inspired trend is back, and it's here to stay. Not only is it great to wear fringe to festivals, but it can be worn daily. It can be worn on a necklace, bag, dress, and more. It's very versatile, and easy to mix and match.

So there you have it, the top 5 spring must haves. Mix and match all these pieces for a unique look, or wear them individually. The best thing about them is that they can also be worn in the summer time. We say it's time to go SHOPPING! What trends are you most excited to wear?

Houston, The Fastest Growing City AGAIN!

Houston is back on top of Forbes' fastest-growing cities list this year. Houston took the No. 1 spot away from Austin, which had held the position for the past four years. Austin came in at No. 2 this year, followed by Dallas at No. 3. With Fort Worth at No. 8 and San Antonio at No. 10, Texas claimed half of the top 10 spots.

According to Forbes Magazine Houston is number one because of the boom in energy and exports in helping drive a surge of new jobs in Houston. Houston's 4.5 percent year-over-year job growth rate is the fastest in the U.S. And median annual pay for college-educated workers is $71,900, the fourth-highest among the largest 100 U.S. metro areas.

Houston also recorded a 1.81 percent population growth rate in 2014, with 1.74 percent projected growth for 2015. Its gross metro product growth was 3.52 percent in 2014.

The Greater Houston Partnership's annual Houston Employment Forecast shows the city added 500,000 residents over the past four years. Falling oil prices and slower global growth will have a negative impact on Houston's energy and export sectors in 2015, but the city will still add another 125,000 residents and 62,900 jobs this year, GHP predicts.

Houston has many things to do, like visiting The Silver Street Art Studios. Silver Street is an arts and event complex that includes a 20,000 square foot event space and 70 creative studios. It is opened to the public from 2-5pm on Saturdays. They are committed to supporting the arts and providing local creative entrepreneurs a community in which their ideas can thrive.

If you haven't visited Houston before, we believe you must do so at least once. But beware, you may fall in love with it and want to move. After all it is the fastest growing city.

GOVERNOR GREG ABBOTT ADDRESSES AUDIENCE AT HOUSTON HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNUAL LUNCHEON & BUSINESS EXPO

Governor Greg Abbott addressed a sold out crowd of more than 1,500 at the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce 22nd Luncheon and Business Expo on April 9th, at the Hilton Americas in downtown Houston. Abbott addressed the audience on the enthusiasm and entrepreneurial spirit of Hispanic businesses and the positive impact they have in the Houston economy.

The program opened with a performance of the National Anthem by D’Ana Lombard from the Houston Grand Opera and an invocation delivered by Dodie Osteen of Lakewood Church. The Annual Luncheon included a business expo where hundreds filled the hallways to explore the product and services of member corporations and entrepreneurs. With a sold-out audience of more than 1,500 attendees, the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Annual Luncheon & Business expo is Houston’s largest business luncheon.

“The truth is Texas continues to be exceptional, and you are a big reason why,” said Governor Abbott. “You are the entrepreneurs and the risk takers, the people with a vision and the work ethic to achieve it.”

The program featured other prominent community leaders and elected officials such as Mayor Annise Parker, 2016 Houston Mayoral Candidates, Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Dr. Laura Murillo, and Elected Officials including: Congressman Ted Poe, Congressman Pete Olsen, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee and Sherriff Adrian Garcia.

“The Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce believes in the development and empowerment of the Houston business community. We are committed to customized solutions for our corporate partners and to connecting our small business owners with opportunities to thrive in a city which is considered an epicenter of entrepreneurship.”

The Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is the largest Hispanic Chamber in the country and the  leading regional advocate for the economic and civic interests of the Hispanic business community.

Did You Know… Latino Voting Power!

With the growing number of Latinos in the US it's becoming even more important that we, Latinos, stick together. One way we can stick together is by voting, yet many Latinos are not voting or will not vote next time around.   There are 23 million Latinos who are eligible to vote, yet only 15 million are registered, and only 12 million will actually go to the polls! 

Take a look below at the reason why YOU should vote, because you can make a difference!

1)  Latinos voting can make politicians pay more attention to us! We hear them uttering phrases in Spanish all the time, and promising to help our community but without us voting they won't do much. They need to see that Latinos are listening to them, and caring about issues.

2) Latinos voting can lead to more Latinos being named to higher positions within our government. According to the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials there are 5,928 Latino elected officials in the country at the local, state, and federal level. But, we have only two senators and two governors of Hispanic descent. Latinos voting can change this.

3) If we don't vote, someone else will make the choice for us. Many Latinos have forgotten that voting is a right and a privilege. Not everyone can vote.  If you have the opportunity to vote, don’t waste it because if you do you are allowing others to govern your city, state and community.

Latinos do care about a lot of issues, but the biggest problem is showing up at the polls! Without Latinos coming together and actually voting we won't see the changes our Latino community deserves. So, next time, go out and vote! Together we can make a difference!

NEWS FLASH... See the Line Up for Beauty and Business Luncheon in Houston, plus Live Stream Link!

The Beauty , Business & Blogger Networking Lunch Live at The DownTown Club, Houston, Texas, Saturday, April 11th , 12-4pm, is almost approching. If you are not able to attend you're in luck because we will be doing a LIVE STREAM, so you can view and hear our panel speakers where ever you are!

IMAN Cosmetics the leading cosmetic beauty brand will be launching their New Eye Palette and presenting it to Beauty & Retail Business Owners, beauty insiders including local, national, and international Bloggers and media covering at this luncheon networking event. Also, hear from Latina panel speakers!

Panel speakers include:

Alma Alvarez,  Miss Houston Latina: At only 22 years old. She is currently a full time student in San Jancito Collge, majoring in Advertising, with a 3.5 GPA. This Mexican American Beauty, is also a certified yoga instructor, on top of being crowned Miss Houston Latina this past October.

 Elizabeth Berman, CEO of INCA KOLA: She has been recognized for her efforts as an entrepreneur, educator, and humanitarian and is currently the President of Continental Food and Beverage, Inc. (CF&B Inc.). She has been the exclusive bottler and distributor of the INCA KOLA brand for The Coca Cola Company in North America, Europe, Asia, Central and South America (except Peru) since 1985.

Paychex, Inc. Spokesperson:Paychex is a recognized leader in the payroll, human resource, and benefits outsourcing industry, with a steadfast commitment to success and a record of achievement that continues a tradition of delivering excellence.

IMAN Cosmetics Spokesperson: IMAN Cosmetics, Skincare and Fragrances, is a beauty company that created the first cosmetics and skincare collection designed for all women with skin of color. Launched in 1994, by Iman, the IMAN brand philosophy holds that women with skin of color represent many races, cultures, and ethnicities.

Local, national and international bloggers will get the opportuniy to do a Q & A and tune in LIVE on this Beauty Business Extravagaza, so you won't miss a thing. By following @IMANCosmetics on Twitter and using the hashtag, #IMANLATINA, you can ask questions to our panel speakers, and maybe your question will get answered.

Check out the link below for our countdown to the LIVE STREAM!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K1zd00fmf48&feature=youtu.be

I know we are excited about this event, are YOU?

#IMANLATINA

Did You Know... From JELLO to JLO 

Ever wonder how Latina Jennifer Lopez got her famous back side, besides getting it from her Mama? Through alot of hard work! Yes, she is genetically gifted, but getting it toned and mainting it, takes some exercise. Check out the 3 exercises that are sure to whip that backside into a Jennifer Lopez one!

1) While doing your basic sit down squat against the wall use dumbbells while doing so. It's as simple as that! The dumbbells will let you see results quicker and you will feel it working faster.

2) With your basic spilt squat, add kettle bells to your ankles. Just like the dumbbells, the extra pressure of the kettle bells will alow you to see a toned and bigger shaped booty faster.

3) You can't forget about cardio! Cardio can be almost anything throughout your day. Like sprinting and skipping steps while going up the stairs, or the elliptical at the gym. 20 mins to an hour is all you need in a day, combined with some squats.

There you have 3 basic exercises to help you channel your inner JLO derriere! We say give these a try and let us know the results, but make sure you eat healthy as well. A good booty, not a jello booty, involves exercise and good nutrition!

Did You Know… Latinos during Easter

Easter is this Sunday, April 5th, and us Latinos do things a bit differently than other cultures. For Latinos, Easter approaching means that we can eat meat on Fridays again, and get dressed in pastel colors to attend Easter Sunday mass. You know it’s a Latino Easter when these other signs happen as well (check out the list below):

1) Your neighborhood Church is more packed than usual. That's because your whole familia, and your whole neighborhood is at Church.

2) If you missed Palm Sunday mass no need to worry! Street vendors in Latino neighborhoods sell decorated palms with pictures of your favorite saints. You can find these all over!

3) Good Friday takes place the Friday right before Easter, and it symbolizes the day Jesus Christ died on the cross. Latina Mom's will tell you it’s a day of rest where you shouldn't listen to music.

4) The aroma of habichuelas con dulce is filling up your home starting on Good Friday. If abuela isn't making them you can easily find them on the street where other abuelas will be selling there habichuelas con dulce.

5) Easter Sunday mass is different from all other masses for Latinos, and for some it's like a fashion show, especially for the kids. Big, poofy, pastel colored dresses and baby blue and white tuxedos will be filling up your church.

So there you have it, five signs to tell that it’s a Latino Easter.  Any special traditions your familia and you do when Easter comes around? Share your ideas with us, and Happy Easter to all!

Did You Know… Beauty & Business Luncheonwill be streamed LIVE!

IMAN Cosmetics is sponsoring a BEAUTY & BUSINESS Event, in conjunction with Latinas Who Launch™ Sat, April 11th, 12-4pm at THE DOWNTOWN CLUB, Houston Texas, and the whole event will be STREAMED LIVE!

IMAN Cosmetics will announce and introduce her new LUXURY EYE SHADOW PENCILS in an array of 6 colors: Intrigue, Desire, Seduction, Forbidden, Deception, Mystery! Which one will be your favorite?

VIP Business Houstonites & Media will get a chance to listen to Latina Panel Speakers & CEO’s such as Elizabeth Chalas Berman , CEO of INCA KOLA, “Latinas Think Big, , Spokesperson for PAYCHEX “Latinas Pay It Forward” , and IMAN Cosmetics Spokes Person on “How Beauty Is Your Business.” Miss Houston Latina, Alma Alvarez will also be opening up the event and talking about her journey and being Latina.

Plus each will get to participate in our “Soy” Photo Booth, Manicures, Eye Bar by Iman Cosmetics, Q & A with IMAN Cosmetics, Raffle Swag Bag Giveaways & More

We will be doing a LIVE STREAMING Event, for bloggers who can’t attend event, Saturday April 11th in Houston Texas. Through the live stream you will see the event live in action and won’t miss a thing. If you are a Beauty Insider or Blogger and want to join us please email [email protected].

You can view the live stream through the link below:

LIVE LINK /April 11th @12 EST & CDT

http://youtu.be/K1zd00fmf48

Get Empowered! Get Inspired! Get Motivated to go further in your business! 

IMAN Cosmetics is all about beauty & inspiring with businesses to go further & move forward. IMAN Cosmetics is more than just a cosmetics brand it is a Lifestyle brand.

Did You Know…Miss Houston Latina, Alma Alvarez, will be at Beauty & Business Luncheon!

IMAN Cosmetics is sponsoring a BEAUTY & BUSINESS Event, in conjunction with Latinas Who Launch™ Sat, April 11th, 12-4pm at THE DOWNTOWN CLUB, Houston Texas, and Miss Houston Latina will be joining us!

IMAN Cosmetics will announce and introduce her new LUXURY EYE SHADOW PENCILS in an array of 6 colors: Intrigue, Desire, Seduction, Forbidden, Deception, Mystery! Which one will be your favorite?

VIP Business Houstonites & Media will get a chance to listen to Latina Panel Speakers & CEO’s such as Elizabeth Chalas Berman , CEO of INCA KOLA, “Latinas Think Big, , Spokesperson for PAYCHEX “Latinas Pay It Forward” , and IMAN Cosmetics Spokes Person on “How Beauty Is Your Business.” Miss Houston Latina, Alma Alvarez will also be opening up the event and talking about her journey and everything beauty!

Plus each get to participate in our “Soy” Photo Booth, Manicures, Eye Bar by Iman Cosmetics, Q & A with IMAN Cosmetics, Raffle Swag Bag Giveaways & More

We will be doing a LIVE Ustream Event, for bloggers who can't attend event, Saturday April 11th in Houston Texas. Through Ustream you will see the event live in action and won't miss a thing. If you are a Beauty Insider or Blogger in NYC & want to join us please email [email protected]

Get Empowered! Get Inspired! Get Motivated to go further in your business! 

IMAN Cosmetics is all about beauty & inspiring with businesses to go further & move forward. IMAN Cosmetics is more than just a cosmetics brand it is a Lifestyle brand.

#IMANLATINA Beauty & Business

IMAN Cosmetics is sponsoring a BEAUTY & BUSINESS Event, in conjunction with Latinas Who Launch™ Sat, April 11th 12-4pm at THE DOWNTOWN CLUB, Houston Texas.

IMAN Cosmetics will announce and introduce her new LUXURY EYE SHADOW PENCILS in an array of 6 colors: Intrigue, Desire, Seduction, Forbidden, Deception, Mystery! Which one will be your favorite?

VIP Business Houstonites & Media will get a chance to listen to Latina Panel Speakers & CEO’s such as Elizabeth Chalas Berman , CEO of INCA KOLA, “Latinas Think Big,  , Spokesperson  for PAYCHEX “Latinas Pay It Forward” , and IMAN Cosmetics Spokes Person on “How Beauty Is Your Business” Plus each get to participate in our “Soy” Photo Booth, Manicures, Eye Bar by Iman Cosmetics, Q & A with IMAN Cosmetics, Raffle Swag Bag Giveaways & More

We will be doing a LIVE Ustream Event, for bloggers who can't attend event, Saturday April 11th in Houston Texas. Through Ustream you will see the event live in action and won't miss a thing. If you are a Beauty Insider or Blogger in NYC & want to join us please email [email protected]

Get Empowered! Get Inspired! Get Motivated to go further in your business! 

IMAN Cosmetics is all about beauty & inspiring with businesses to go further & move forward. IMAN Cosmetics is more than just a cosmetics brand it is a Lifestyle brand.

Did You Know: IMAN COSMETICS is sponsoring LatinasWhoLaunch™ BEAUTY & BUSINESS Luncheon

IMAN Cosmetics is sponsoring a BEAUTY & BUSINESS Event, in conjunction with Latinas Who Launch™ Sat, April 11th 12-4pm atTHE DOWNTOWN CLUB , Houston Texas.

IMAN Cosmetics will announce and introduce her new LUXURY EYE SHADOW PENCILS in an array of 6 colors: Intrigue, Desire, Seduction, Forbidden, Deception, Mystery....‪#‎Dramatic

We will be doing a LIVE Ustream Event, for bloggers who can't attend event, Saturday April 11th in Houston Texas. Through Ustream you will see the event live in action and won't miss a thing. If you are a Beauty Insider or Blogger in NYC & want to join us please email [email protected]

Get Empowered! Get Inspired! Get Motivated to go further in your business! 

IMAN Cosmetics is all about beauty & inspiring with businesses to go further & move forward. IMAN Cosmetics is more than just a cosmetics brand it is a Lifestyle brand.

Did You Know... POWERFUL LATINAS

Very slowly it seems like Hispanics are remaking America, and Latinas have a powerful influence in this change. From Latinas in film and media to Latinas in politics. There have been some truly remarkable Latina leaders and activists, who have changed the world for the better. Take a look at the 3 Latinas below for how they changed their world and what they fought and are fighting for.

1) Joan Baez began to make her mark in the world in the 1960’s composing, recording, and performing songs of peace and spirituality. Doing this she fell in love with political activism and marched and sang for student rights, civil liberties, and peace. Now, she is supporting humanitarian causes and has a school in California focused on non-violence.

2)Nydia Velazquez was born in Puerto Rico in 1953. From very little she was a young activist and spent her teenage years fighting for causes like sanitation in school and the level of health. In 1992, she became the first Puerto Rican women to be elected to serve in the US Congress. Nydia then became the chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus till January 2011.

3)Susana Martinez is New Mexico’s first female governor and the first Hispanic women to run for state. She pushes for education reforms and budget cutbacks. Last year, she was even named one of Time’s most influential people in the world. She has even earned one of the highest approval ratings in the country, never dropping below 60 percent, and has mentioned as possible competition for Chris Christie in 2016.

As a culture we have a number of leaders and activists to look up to and be thamnkful for. Whether its fighting for freedom, or fighting for health care these women and other latina women have made a impact on the world and for years to come.

Who is your favorite powerful Latina women?