As we wrap up February and move into March, let's get ready for Women's History Month.  March first became widely recognized as "Women's History Month" in 1978 in Sonoma County, California.  Many celebrations fall under this umbrella recognizing women for the many accomplishments they've received and barriers they've broken.  By 1981 this activity expanded to cover the entire month.

According to research there are two main factors that contributed to the emergence of the importance of history made by women.  First, women's movements of the sixties caused women to question their invisibility in traditional American history.  Historically, when most people think of or have thought of the "history" of women they refer to the "political" strides they've made. This is actually quite interesting, especially since this election year we all know that for the first time in history we have a chance to seriously elect an African American man or a woman to be President of the United States of America.

I recommend as we close out Black History Month and walk into Women's History Month that everyone (no matter what side of the fence you stand), commit to participate in some sort of event or activity around the current political climate in our country.  You can hold a fundraiser, you can work on a "get out the vote" collaboration or you can simply donate your time to a campaign and plan an event right in your own home!  Each one should reach one...don't just talk about it...be about it and make a difference.

If you have questions, ideas or something you would like for me to comment on, please email me personally today - wendy@personalservicesplus.com  

Give your all in all that you do. Then the PLUS won't just be more, it will be the difference!

Wendy is the founder and president of Personal Services Plus, Inc., an Event Management Company.  Visit  www.personalservicesplus.com or email her at wendy@personalservicesplus.com.    

 

We've all heard at one time or another that Californians have their own style and way of doing things.  We are mostly known for having a laid back and casual tone in what we do, even when it comes to special events.  Our dress code is known as "casual" and some even refer to us as "lacking refinement."  However the growing sentiment is that "when in Rome..."  as in California, overall, is more relaxed than the East Coast and as a rule that's just the way it is but not always.  We do have our special social events that expect tradition (our cotillions, sorority and fraternity events, and a few others).

Today there's a variety of things that effect how we do what we do.  For example, there's truly a rise in what's referred to as "greening," which calls for a social and environmental consciousness.  This encourages people to send out their invitations and other materials electronically as much as possible.  Therefore we are seeing more invitations done in the format of e-mail blasts, iPhone send-outs, and yes even through "text messages."  Now, I'm not saying we should give up our traditional patterns of having special invitations printed - but we all need to keep in mind what we must do to attract new potential supporters and keeping up with the times.

So my question to you is what is really true "etiquette" for Californians? I would dare to say as a whole that when "our" community throws a party or an event, we tend to go up verses down.  Do you have an opinion as to what we should accept or not accept?  If so, I would love to hear from you.  As we try to expose, teach and educate the community about events, we love to hear from you!  Email me personally today - wendy@personalservicesplus.com   

Give your all in all that you do. Then the PLUS won't just be more, it will be the difference!

Wendy is the founder and president of Personal Services Plus, Inc., an Event Management Company.  Visit  www.personalservicesplus.com  or email her at wendy@personalservicesplus.com.     

 

This particular article touches me in a very personal way because it deals with an organization that I started over ten years ago based on various components that touched my own life. On April 26th there will be a fundraiser called "The PLUS Awards" to benefit the non-profit organization called Forgiving For Living, Inc., a 501(c)3 organization that helps individuals (especially women and girls) that have experienced various forms of abuse and abandonment. 

The mission of Forgiving For Living, Inc., (FFL) is to inspire and empower individuals who have experienced abuse, abandonment or low self-esteem with tools and resources to make positive choices for a better life.  FFL, Inc., is designed to give solutions to issues of hate, anger, bitterness and unforgiveness that often lead to negative behaviors.  Violence and Hate Crimes are on the rise causing anxiety, depression and stress leading people to a state of hopelessness. Our objective is to help promote and restore mental wellness to individuals who have been victims of abuse and violence. 

The reason I am writing about this in February (although the event won't take place until April) is because we want to do a community call to the public to nominate any individual or organization that you feel have gone above and beyond the call of duty to make a difference in the lives of people experiencing pain in the area of abuse and or abandonment.  If you know of anyone that deserves this award, please email me at events@personalservicesplus.com  by March 1st in writing not to exceed 250 words why you think the person should be considered for a PLUS Award.  We welcome your questions and or comments. 

Give your all in all that you do. Then the PLUS won't just be more, it will be the difference!

Wendy is the founder and president of Personal Services Plus, Inc., an Event Management Company.  Visit  www.personalservicesplus.com  or email her at wendy@personalservicesplus.com.  

 

This week's article officially kicks off Black History Month.  Most of us know (and if we don't we need to be shot) that Carter G. Woodson is considered the "Father of Black History Month."  However, this term originated as "Negro History Week."  During the month of February, many of us will highlight various events and activities across the city that will pay tribute or honor to the accomplishments and achievements of African Americans. 

One of my other companies is an African American history tour of the greater Los Angeles area. As the owner of "Noir Steps 'n LA" (www.noirstepsnla.com ), I have a passion for the history of our people, businesses and institutions and how they paved a way for all of us today.  With this in mind I believe it is very important for us to not take lightly what February means to us as a community.  Yes, I think we should be mindful of all of the accomplishments of our people throughout the entire year, but while the "majority" community pauses during the month of February, let's definitely be a drum major out front highlighting what needs to be remembered.

I encourage everyone to check the calendar section of the Black Voice News to see what activities and events are going on across the city and get involved.  Also support today all the activities that the Black Voice News & their Foundation does on a year round basis to keep our history and heritage alive. Let's all celebrate in the events and activities within our community this month and make our lights shine! 

We welcome your comments.  Please feel free to email me directly at wendy@personalservicesplus.com

We welcome your questions.  Please feel free to email me directly at wendy@personalservicesplus.com.

Give your all in all that you do. Then the PLUS won't just be more, it will be the difference!

Wendy is the founder and president of Personal Services Plus, Inc., an Event Management Company.  Visit  www.personalservicesplus.com   or email her at wendy@personalservicesplus.com.