‘Harlem Stimulus Plan’ Press Conference

Marva Allen, owner of Hue-Man Bookstore and architect of the Power of One, along with other Harlem business owners, community leaders and celebrities will hold a press conference to roll out their Harlem Stimulus Plan, “The Power of One.”

This press conference will introduce the media to the mission and goals of this grassroots initiative that will enrich and enhance the lives of Harlem’s diverse and multicultural residents. It will also be announce the widely anticipated kick-off event, Small Steps, Great Leaps, which will be held on Sunday, May 16th at the Riverside Church.

Harlem small businesses have suffered greatly from the attempts at redevelopment. According to the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce, In the last 18 months, over 37% of Harlem small businesses have been forced to shut down.

Since December of last year, however, the Power of One has been creating change all over Harlem and getting the community on board in producing its very own stimulus package to save jobs and provide economic stability in Harlem.

Created by a coalition of like-minded individuals, entrepreneurs and businesses, the Power of One is a community based initiative that encourages communities to spend, save, invest and engage in cause marketing within their own communities. This sustainability program re-invests each dollar garnered into the community to support Power of One businesses and five charities that are considered “Flow Partners.” Funds have also been ear-marked for a beautification project.

This initiative boasts an impressive 40 business partnership, along with a myriad of celebrity and political support.

The kickoff event, “Small Steps, Great Leaps” will be an evening of inspiration, a celebration of community and change and will showcase performances from Power of One friends and supporters. This wonderful evening of inspiration will include a stellar lineup of speakers and performers including a rendition of the Power of One theme song, composed by Dr. George Francois and sung by “Law & Order: SVU” star, and Harlem’s own Tamara Tunie, a presentation by the renowned director and choreographer George Faison, a musical performance by Tony nominated leading actress, Montego Glover of the new hit musical Memphis on Broadway by Three Mo’ Divas, a performance by CNN’s Dr. Rani Whitfield, the Hip Hop Doc, comments from Legendary Civil Rights Attorney Sanford Rubenstein, and a unique presentation from impressionist Reggie Brown, the “Obama Man.”  The night promises to be full of excitement and fun!

What: Press Conference is Friday, May 14th 2010, from 12 – 1p.m.

Where: Hue-Man Bookstore 2319 Frederick Douglass Blvd, between 124th & 125th Street, New York, NY 10027