E3 Business Group building strong following as programs continue to be introduced. Interested? Email events@e3businessgroup.us to request more info.
Chapter News
The Dr Was "In The House!" A
Dinner With... Dr. Levi McIntosh Exceeds ALL Expectations
Beaver Street Enterprise Center
went from being a quiet center of business to a source of inspiration,
energy, and candid dialogue as it hosted the second event for
entrepreneurs to network with recognized leaders of business on
Wednesday, June 9, 2010. Michelle Cohen
of Cohen Events & Decor along with Crystol's Exquisite Catering
worked their magic transforming a conference room into an elegant dinner
environment with a three course catered meal, the E3 event created a
oasis of vibrancy and fellowship much needed in NE Florida.This event
was one of the most powerful yet for aspiring entrepreneurs in
Jacksonville, FL featuring Dr. Levi H.
McIntosh Jr. 18 entrepreneurs in various stages of business
development were Educated, Encouraged, and Empowered by a passionate
speaker whose command of business and breadth of knowledge of the
culture of Jacksonville, FL.
"I won't apologize to you for anything I am
about to say"
The event started a welcome by
Ms. Angela Redding of Beaver
Street Enterprise Center followed by a blessing of the table by National
Membership Director, Richard Stewart (SaniGlaze
International) followed by a delicious meal of chicken marsala, sauteed
stringbeans, garlic potatoes and Chef
Harvey's signature Tropical Island Punch. Following a warm
introduction by E3 Executive Director Anthony
M. Butler, Sr. all eyes turned to the guest of honor Dr. Mac
took attendees through a brief history of how Jacksonville has been
shaped and impacted by the mindset of its people. He shared how the
southern mindset and the focus on the surface trappings (who you know,
where you live, what's your family pedigree) outweighs the substance of
your talents and abilities with some people. "Its like there is
something in the air", commented Barbara
English. A "transplant" from Washington, DC, Barbara is a highly
respected consultant specializing in helping businesses obtain a wide
variety of business and minority certifications for working with the
government. Dr. McIntosh went on to challenge each person in the room to
develop a plan and work it. "I don't care what you call it, create a
plan and WORK the plan." An Executive Member of the 100 Black Men of
Jacksonville Dr. McIntosh shared his thoughts based on his experience in
running businesses and his expert level organizational management
background.
"Vision
without ACTION is ILLUSION"
Entrepreneurs were encouraged to continue doing what they were doing and let
nothing stop them. "I am proud of you, and you, and you..." stated Dr.
McIntosh (Philosophy) as he pointed to entrepreneurs like Sean Watts
(San Marco Cross Training), Melinda Henry (DEEN Development
Corp/Abzolute Fitness Center) and Theresa Richardson (Legal Rescue). "I
especially like what you have said, you were able to share your vision
and you have a goal in mind." he added to Joyce Holliday. Joyce heard of
the event and came even though she "doesn't have a business yet..." Her
idea when birthed will revolutionize the clothing industry.
The dialogue became full of emotion and passion
as guests began to speak up. "Jacksonville is like being at a middle
school party." quipped Sean Watts,
a personal trainer with his own powerful story (Sean will be featured
in the July/August issue of Arbus Magazine) "Everybody stands around
while the music plays and then when you say 'I am going to dance by
myself' then people want to follow." He went on to comment that doing
business in Jacksonville and being a part of E3 feels like "we are
building a mountain and everyone else waits to see if you are successful
before trying to copy you." KheSahn
Barker (who attended with her husband Alvin) of BlueCross
BlueShield of Florida, the exclusive sponsor for this event shared a startling fact; "Minority businesses, which includes
women owned businesses, need to get certified with companies. We only
have 18 minority firms listed currently at BCBSF." Anthony Butler took
it a step further. "One of the problems with entrepreneurs is that they
will get an occupational license and then sit back and wait for clients.
It is not the city's or the tax collector's job to promote what you do.
You have to do this." The discussion was punctuated by Dr. McIntosh extolling the
importance of creating a plan and working it. His pounding a fist on the
table as he demanded everyone on the room to "Work the plan, Work the
plan, Work the plan" electrified the room!
Dr. McIntosh and the attendees, which included Assistant
States Attorney Octavius Holliday
who was supporting his wife's business Ms. ASPIRE a mentoring and
tutoring service for young girls held court for nearly 60 minutes and
closed with a symbolic presentation to Dr. McIntosh for his time,
knowledge and contributions. "Dr. McIntosh being here tonight was just
God working on our behalf, stated Butler. "He has supported me since
meeting him in 2003 and I believe in what he stands for and want to take
full advantage of his experience and insight. The event ended with
networking, smiles, and a feeling of can do for all present. BlueCross
BlueShield and E3 agreed to look at ways to help businesses understand
the importance of being certified. Barbara English also promised to lend
her considerable talents to helping more businesses put themselves in a
position to succeed.
Other entrepreneurs and professionals attending the event
included Sonia Bush of City Kidz
Ice Cream & Cafe, Garrick
[last name omitted] of BlueCross BlueShield, Amanda Charlemagne of Mainstreet Wholesalers and Kay Stewart of the States Attorney's
Office.
"For those of you who could
not attend for personal reason, it's understandable. But when you say
dang, I missed it, you're right you missed it. Accolade to Anthony
and the E3 team for truly exemplifying the E3 mission. Thank you Dr Mac
for your encouraging words to keep the faith, as I continue to build
relationships because I know there's victory in my vision."
- Melinda Henry, DEEN Development Corp
Baltimore Chapter Recruiting New Members - The Baltimore Chapter of E3 is looking for aspiring entrepreneurs and those interested in starting their own business. The Chapter will be selecting new officers and introducing new trainings and programs to the area which focus on business involvement in the community and community/business partnerships. For more information or to submit your business for membership consideration please Richard "Rich" Stewart, National Membership Director at 888-525-2299 x117, complete our E3 Associate questionnaire or email membership@e3businessgroup.us.
E3 Social Network - Join us on Facebook! The network brings together members, supporters and partners to discuss topics relevant to E3 initiatives. The page is moderated by E3 Junior Member Nick McClenton. Become a fan or leave a comment. Current discussions include challenges for entrepreneurs and what can children teach their parents.
E3 Partners with BlueCross BlueShield of Florida to present Accuse Yourself of Success!
This innovative workshop provides youth between the ages of 12 and 16 valuable guidance in creating a mindset for success in school and their lives. The 50 minute presentation takes a look at the struggles of E3 National Executive Director Anthony "Tony" Butler who was an underachiever with a poor mindset. Mr. Butler's candid self-critique and sharing of his journey from irresponsibility to self accountability is both powerful and timely.
Three schools were selected to receive the presentation which was sponsored exclusively by BCBSF as a part of their continued commitment to families, communities, and academic achievement. Highlands Middle School (60 Attendees), Mattie V. Rutherford Alternative School (200 attendees), and Ribault Middle School (50 attendees) hosted the presentation with great success. Students and adults came away with a powerful message for change. This workshop has become one of the most popular E3 presentations and was recently endorsed by Communities in Schools, Inc. in NE Florida.
Request more info and share with the school board in your city or county. Or visit our E3 downloads page for the latest brochure. Here is an excerpt of one 9th grader's thoughts after viewing the presentation:
"Dear Mr. Butler,
This morning you spoke to my class (Mr. Benyard's first period). My name is Allison Bonifay and I am 15 years old. I was really inspired by your story and the corporation you helped to create. I have heard many "sermons" my teachers have given, which are meant to inspire us to succeed and make the most of our education. However, something about your story made it all seem real. It gave a new definition of success not heard in our society today; a way of achieving our goals through helping others achieve theirs. Helping others is based on kindness, generosity, and simple common courtesy, which are scarce these days and I greatly hope I could make a difference the way you do.
After visiting your web site, E3 is something different than I thought it was as you described it. A non-profit organization dedicated to helping business owners take a hold of their business and essentially reclaim their dreams and lives is a wonderful idea."
Worth Noting
L & H Artistic Images has received their certification as Minority Business. E3 Member Esther Sherman (Enterprising Paradigms) has worked diligently to create a strong business. Congratulations!!
Ronnie Cage (Cage Consulting - Jacksonville Chapter) has been selected as a speaker for the 12th Annual International Fatherhood Conference. Mr. Cage's presentation will be heard by subject matter experts from around the world. The theme of this year's event is "Parents and Communities Working Together to Ensure the Academic Success of Children". The conference will be held in New Orleans, June 15 - 18, 2010. For more information on the conference Email Jasmin Johnson at: jjconferencecoordinator@gmail.com!
E3's official Blogger William Jackson has an informative post on the previous events. Click here to read more . The events were free to the public and part of a series of interactive forums which will deal with topics ranging from parent involvement to "ending the blame game".
When asked why it is important for people to attend, E3 National Director of Membership, Rich Stewart replied, "The future of your children, the children of the community, and you need a breakthrough [mindset]. This forum is providing us with an opportunity to make a change and make a impact on our community."
Make a difference. Help us "Break the Deadly Cycle" of Infant Mortality. Talk to a young adult, expectant mother, new mom or dad, newlyweds, and all the fathers you can about preventing infant mortality and attending an E3 forum!
Ronnie Cage (Cage Consulting - Jacksonville Chapter) has been selected as a speaker for the 12th Annual International Fatherhood Conference. Mr. Cage's presentation will be heard by subject matter experts from around the world. The theme of this year's event is "Parents and Communities Working Together to Ensure the Academic Success of Children". The conference will be held in New Orleans, June 15 - 18, 2010. For more information on the conference 
E3's official Blogger 
