An afternoon in Homewood (Hill District, East Liberty, Garfield or any other majority African-American community)!

25 Businesses side by side in any community. In Homewood, we can start with at the "Meadow Lanes Bowling Center" with Majorie Mitchell and Ray Jeter. They would love the company because Homewood will be experiencing a revitalization similar to Garfield and East Liberty. I can envision Kim Harriel-Allen opening her "Revelations & Reflections" bookstore next to the bowling center. Shawn Walthour's "Refuge Temple Church" would encourage the Christian books that Kim could provide. Both Kim and Shawn's establishments would be the perfect location for live performances. Elnora Fortson can read from her book "Inspirational Poems" and her husband, Walt Fortson, can read from his new book on financial literacy for youth. Penda James, "Inscribed Inspirations," will offer services on book publishing and editing. Next door would be the 2nd location of Terra Jones's "Amani International Coffeehouse & Cafe."

Can you imagine the impact that these black owned businesses could/would have on Frankstown Avenue? Jasmine Ward will having us licking our lips with her famous "Annette Desert Catering Company". Afterwards, we can burn those calories off with "Zumba Fitness classes" by Sherree Buchanan. Ahmed Sandidge, "Sandidge Photography Studio" will take pictures of your new figure. The evening won't be complete without a visit to Sandy Simon's "Klin-N-Time pottery studio." Did I forget to mention "Bridging the Gap Development?" Derrick Tillman, (only black owned business at the Pittsburgh International Airport) will help us build a world class restaurant in the Heart of Homewood. He will also use his real estate background to negotiate great prices for the new businesses in the community. Charita Colllins can enhance your self-esteem with products from "Warm Spirits" and Lisa Walthour with her "Avon Products". Patricia Sallie, "C.N.A. Connections" support group will be conducting meetings in the community.

All these businesses utilize technology through the assistance of Samuel & Jasmine Ward's "Wards Computer Service". Kristee Cammack will be opening a Homeless Shelter/Community Center called "The Giving Heart". After a long day of volunteering and mentoring at the community center, Susan Roberts will anoint you with a therapeutic message. Nia Stanley is ready to offer her assistance to entrepreneurs that are in need of a business plan. Homewood's businesses will be provided by the services of Patricia Sallie & Pamela Smith "Prepaid Legal Services". Glen Waters is the agent you need in your life! "Waters Insurance" can provide the security you need for your investment. Stacy Rich & Irene Anderson-Sparks will be supportive to our businesses and community. These businesses will make sure that Uncle Sam is satisfied because of the accounting work of John Hollins "Bryce and Associates", Thelina Williams "Williams Accounting" and Karen Wright "Tax Services by Karen". Diane Daniels "DID Associates" will lean an ear for public relations and business development. She may even write a story about your business for the "New Pittsburgh Courier". If you can't handle all the work on your own, Kirsten Womack "Immaculate Impressions" (Two Tech Divas) can meet your needs. I just know all these businesses will support and advertise with friend and mentor of "MNE" Donna Baxter "Soul Pitt.com".

Did I mention that I want to open a Roller Skating Ring in Homewood? I am looking for investor's in this and another venture.

This is all definitely possible.now let's make it happen! -- Vernard A., Monroeville