1. Silver Lining on Financial Reform:  Many are disappointed in the new financial reform legislation.  However, there is a great component to it.  That comes under Title III which states:  “Office of Minority and Women Inclusion – The title requires the establishment of offices of Minority and Women Inclusion by the Treasury Department, and the financial regulators, to coordinate technical assistance to minority-owned and women-owned businesses and to promote diversity in the workforce of the regulators.”  This is music to our ears and we will certainly be overseeing the development of such making sure it comes to fruition.

2. Preparedness Task Force – Submit Your Recommendations:  The Preparedness Task Force was established by Congress in 2010 to take stock of the numerous efforts that have shaped preparedness policy, guidance and investments since 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina and find ways to ensure that future efforts are efficient, streamlined and measurable.  To learn more and help shape this effort through your substantive written recommendations, visit http://www.fema.gov/preparednesstaskforce/get_involved.shtm.

3.  EPA Declares War on Texas:  Last week, the EPA Regional Administrator Al Armendariz invalidated all 122 flexible air quality permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality since the 1990s, leaving the facilities to apply for new permits.  Most were issued to oil and chemical refineries.  This is further “salt in the wounds” of the BP Oil Spill.  First there is a six month moratorium on drilling and now this.  Just how many jobs do they want to exterminate?  This is the first volley and you should expect it to spread to your state if we don’t fight it.  Trust us, WE WILL.

4.  NBCC Board Meeting:  We will be holding our next board meeting on July 22 at 12:30PM in conjunction with our 18^th Annual Convention.  Those wanting to make a presentation before the Board may send their request and explanation to Charles DeBow at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . All guests must receive prior approval.

5.  The Best Convention Ever!! Houston is buzzing about us:  This city is excited to welcome us.  With over 80,000 Black businesses in the state of Texas and the hub being Houston--the networking and the connecting will be powerful—and that’s only 1 reason to attend.  Don’t miss out!  Call and make your hotel reservation today.  Four Seasons: 713- 652-6266 (special rate, $129, ends July 9^th).