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Target Shoppers: Support Black Business!

As I was walking through the toiletry aisles of my local Target, I had to do a double take: on the shelves sat one of my favorite hair products of all time – Miss Jessie’s Curly Pudding.

I use to have to send off for Miss Jessie’s products from New York, and luckily I stocked up on my last trip there, but to have it in my local Target is too good to be a true – and a MAJOR business move for the sisters that created the product.

Labeled, “The Best Darn Curl Cream Period”, I can personally endorse this product for natural hair, especially for twists-outs and braid-outs. For naturally curly-haired folks, this product will enhance your natural curls to the fullest, while keeping your hair moisturized and smelling wonderful.

Find Miss Jessie’s products in your local Target stores today!

*Photo by Kesha Lambert

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LA Kids: Prince vs. MJ Party

There are some parties in LA that one can’t miss: The Wonderfull Party hosted by DJ Spinna (Stevie Wonder all night long!) and ANY Prince vs. MJ party, although Spinna’s is legendary. I can’t vouch for this DJ, but my blackness requires that I pass the info on. Besides, how can you go wrong with the playlist? This invite just hit my facebook inbox – be there or be assed out!

The Prince versus Michael Party: A Purple Thriller w/ DJ Tendaji Lathan

When: Friday, June 18, 2010 at 8:00pm

Where: Royal/T Art Gallery, 8910 Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA

Occasionally, an event of cosmic proportion immerses our collective consciousness. On June 18, as the Summer’s steamy embrace reacquaints us with golden memories, one such event soars toward our galaxy. Gliding across the decades at an agile pace, you’ll be enveloped by the essence of the King of Pop and seduced by His Royal Badness. At the very moment you confront the majestic edifice that is Royal/T (www.royal-t.org), you’ll be enamored with the aura and allure of Celestial beings in your midst.

DJ Tendaji Lathan will be spinning from the extensive collection of danceable hits, collaborations, and covers from Prince and Michael Jackson. This includes Prince produced songs, the Jackson family, and more all night long.

Prolific artistry. Priceless personalities. Michael and His Majesty; partying at the speed of sound…

Brought to you by Darnell Holcomb

Cover Charge is $10 before 10:30PM and $20 thereafter. Upscale attire is required. RSVP to shovision@yahoo.com.

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BLACKis ONLINE: MERC80.COM

I love a good blog. I’m more likely to peruse the pages of blogs for news since, as art is concerned, primetime news is rarely giving face to the issues and people I care most about. And when I discover a blog that showcases something I love and brings critical convo to the table, I’m all in – and I pass it on.

Meet Merc80.com. More about the brother behind the blog later; but for now consider this a resource for good underground artists interviews (especially for us LA kids), smart commentary on this music industry, and big love to good artistry in general.

Check out his most recent entries: interviews with Brook D’Leau and Miss Jack Davey of the bad-ass music duo J*Davey.

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Hidden Treasure In The Hood: Toffee Sensations

Los Angeles has some of the best food spots owned and operated by Black restaurateurs in the nation, and I was lucky enough to discover a new one. Toffee Sensations, located at the corner of Manchester Blvd. and Dalton Avenue, this small, green, hole-in-the-wall serves up mouth-watering dishes that will have you coming back for more. Although toffee candy and desserts are their specialty, Toffee Sensations’ menu boasts delicious sandwiches and wraps, salads, pasta, and hands-down one of the best turkey burgers I’ve ever had. However, you  would be remiss to gloss over their desserts. The Toffee Pecan Cookies are addicting, but their greatest claim to fame is the Red Velvet Cheesecake Cupcakes! Need I say more?

From preparation to presentation, Toffee Sensations hits all senses with their palate-pleasing dishes. They are also available to cater your next event.

*Tip: Order the turkey burger, Toffee Sensations style, and have a mouth orgasm. Also, they usually have sample-sized cupcakes available for just $1!

Toffee Sensations

1530 W Manchester Ave.

Los Angeles, CA 90047

(323) 971-1727

Open Tuesday through Friday from 11:30 – 2:30 (brunch/lunch only)

open Saturdays from 11:30 – 5pm

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Attention All Costco Shoppers: Support Black Business!

In an effort to let the Black dollar circulate, I try to keep an eye out for new Black businesses and products that hit the market. My aunt introduced me to a product called GumboBrick that has signed a Costco vendor contract, and is the brainchild of Carole Foster, a Black woman from Compton, CA.

The Gumbo Brick product is a pre-made roux for gumbo lovers that speeds up the preparation of gumbo. According to the site, it is called a brick because, “the roux is the foundation for great gumbo”. Each 16-ounce Brick is $11.59, makes eight servings and will be available at the Costco in Hawthorne on Friday, June 11th – Sunday, June 13th. Check the website for more details and support this business! Y’all know you love some gumbo….