Page 11 - 5-1-15 Friday's Edition

Local
Tampa Heights Barbershop Celebrates First Year Success
Organizers Say Charity Festival Another Successful Event
The Tampa Bay Muslim Alliance is grateful to the community, for the support in making the 18th Annual Charity Festival a tremen- dous success. The organizers fulfilled all promises made and more.
In addition to what had been announced as give- aways, the group went be- yond by including free cell phones with minutes and sim cards.
To the delight of the crowd, a truck full of ice cream for everyone was an added feature, as well as the distribution of bags of gro- ceries, and a chartered bus which provided transporta- tion for those in need.
“We sincerely thank the community because you are the reason we do what we do,” states Hakim Aquil.
The politicians have exem- plified continuous support over the years. In attendance was Mayor Bob Buck- horn, the Chief of Police,
Jane Castor and members of both the County Commis- sioner and City Council.
“We are happy that we could meet on a friendly basis and not during times of tur- moil and chaos. Our aim is to show the good of humanity at its best. Giving charity not only helps the individual, but also helps society as a whole. In gratitude and satisfaction, we can say that everyone left with something of benefit,” he said.
“We also extend sincere ap- preciation to the Florida Sentinel for giving us the opportunity to promote the Charity Festival and keep our community abreast and well informed.
“Both WFLA 970 AM and WMNF 88.5 FM radio stations were instrumental in contributing to public aware- ness by interviewing and spreading the word. Again and again, we thank everyone in every capacity that helped to make this event a success.”
The Power Circle Crew: Bri, Jarry D. Rod, Londa, Alvin, Mario, and the owner (in the middle) Reggie.
BY LEON B. CREWS Sentinel Staff Writer
When Reggie Preston decided to open his barber- shop, Power Circle Barbers, on the corner of Columbus Drive and Florida Avenue, he knew it was a big gamble.
“I knew the area was known mostly for where a lot of homeless people go back and forth, and that the sur- rounding community was pretty much settled.
“I decided to take a chance anyway, and now a year later, I see it was a great move.”
Reggie said in the begin- ning, he was always thinking negative and what would hap- pen if he had to close.
“Now, I realize it’s been a blessing and I really thank the
support we’ve gotten from the community. None of this would have been possible with- out them.
“Their patronage has not only been great for me, but also is directly responsible for putting 7 other people to work.”
On Saturday, May 9th from 12 noon until 7 p. m., Power Circle Barbers will be celebrat- ing their first year anniversary with Queen B. from 95.7FM Radio as the host.
Among the special fea- tures will be $5.00 hair- cuts for anyone under 17, free food and drinks, and fried ice cream.
“I have a staff of six barbers and a stylist, and we’ve all pitched in to make this an- niversary special. We will have
a raffle and a pool table tour- nament.
“My message to new busi- nesses is if they feel like the challenge ahead is too great to overcome, hold on to our faith. Remember that victory comes to those who refuse to accept defeat, and that through the frustration you feel today, you will find your greatest strengths.”
Reggie is excited that everything has worked out fine at his shop, and looks forward to the next year and greater success.
FRIDAY, MAY 1, 2015 FLORIDA SENTINEL BULLETIN PUBLISHED EVERY TUESDAY AND FRIDAY PAGE 11-A