click here to view photos from the Black Business Expo

If you had an opportunity to flow through the 19th annual Los Angeles Black Business Expo, then you would probably echo Myra Wallace's sentiments when she said: "wow." Wallace, the executive director who worked alongside BBX President and CEO Harold Hambrick, presented a vibrant business showcase featuring over 300 African American proprietors and a multitude of activities, musicians, celebrities, fashion shows and hair exhibits. With One United Bank and Farmer's Insurance as the title sponsors, the three-day extravaganza included: The Black Business Institute, which talked about personal and business finance; the renowned Tom Bradley Institute, which espoused on starting businesses and investing; The Black Writers on Tour, featuring the premier black publishing company in the country; The Celebrity Lounge; a youth summit; the Sports & Fitness Pavilion; Lawry's "Tasting Black Culture" Food Court; and the Black Speakers Online Booth. "For me personally, this has been a dream and something that God wanted me to do," says Wallace."[God wanted me] to reach out to touch people and businesses that may not have had the opportunity to get exposed, to network with people who have already had exposure, and to meet with sponsors who are trying to get back into the community and grow other businesses." The BBX was also sponsored by Allstate Insurance, Lawry's and Washington Mutual. - terry shropshire

For more info, log onto www.blackbusinessexpo.com.

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