Planning To Succeed

Obama's Plans for America

2012-01-25T12:48:00.001-05:00

President Barack Obama will go down in history as a man with great intellect, composure and resilience. Despite the makeup he and others wore during last night's broadcast, he's holding up physically better than many others. Even Biden still looks fresh. Beyond appearances, Obama addressed several critical issues facing this nation. Affordable higher education, putting a halt on increasing

The Black Power Mix Tape 1967 - 1975

2012-01-16T21:30:00.000-05:00

The Brooklyn Academy of Music put substance into celebrating M.L. King, Jr. Day in Brooklyn. Two theaters within BAM Rose Cinema were packed with people absorbing "The Black Power Mix Tape 1967 - 1975." This documentary is a compilation of interviews and B-roll with people key to the Civil Rights and Black Power Movements done by Swedish reporters very attuned to the social movement occurring

Basic 101 on The American Jobs Act

2011-11-19T12:33:00.000-05:00

Amid small jeers, Brian Benjamin of the Obama National Finance Committee briefed the public about the The American Jobs Act, at Bethany Baptist Church in Brooklyn, a chilly Friday night ago. Was it the weather or was it the economy that kept too many people away from the opportunity to have a national program explained in simple language? The American Jobs Act, when passed by the legislature,

Are Occupy Wall Streeters the New Civil Rights Activists

2011-11-09T10:24:00.002-05:00

The first day in November had a group of protesters and local media converge on Brownsville for a Stop Stop and Frisk protest rally and march to the 73rd Police Precinct. The rally was held underneath the busy, noisy Rockaway Avenue #3 train station. Key spokespeople included Revolutionary Communist Party, USA's Carl Dix and MADRE Vice President Margaret Ratner-Kunstler. The protest group was

Occupy Wall Street, Occupy the Hood, Occupy Something

2011-11-01T12:48:00.000-05:00

Two weeks after Occupy Wall Street was set up in Liberty Park (a/k/a Zucotti Park), it occurred to me that people were sleeping in the cold and protesting on my behalf. It was my tax dollars that bailed out the financial industry--yet again. I didn't demand that these now publicly-funded enterprises have average US taxpayers sit of the boards of directors. Wouldn't you enjoy making decisions

Every Day is Stellar at the International African Arts Festival

2011-06-25T06:11:00.000-05:00

Now in its 40th year, the International African Arts Festival (IAAF) has something to bring residents and visitors back each day to Commodore Barry Park in Brooklyn, July 1 through 4, 10 AM to 10 PM. Does music with “tomate y cilantro” bring shivers to your spine? How about House music all night long? Do dancers leaping like gazelles across a sunny savanna inspire you? Will wisdom wrapped in

40th International African Arts Festival

2011-06-04T19:30:00.000-05:00

The 40th International African Arts Festival Will Shine Like a Diamond - - It is said “Everything is downhill at 40;” others know 40 is the diamond that comes from persistent pressure on coal. Like a diamond, IAAF has reached a clarity that ever ascends and not rolls down. From Friday, July 1 through Monday, July 4, 2011, the 40th International African Arts Festival, at Commodore Barry Park

If Green is Lean Why Resist

2011-05-11T15:16:00.001-05:00

I attended the Building Green Expo, April 28, to learn more about the green industry and see where I fit in the scheme of things. One thing that amazed me was the low attendance. It was cheap and packed with useful information. I received invitations from Building Green Expo, Webgrrls International, and Urban Go Green months in advance. With so many people looking for work and so many

Does Bin Laden's Demise Impact the Economy?

2011-05-04T16:56:00.000-05:00

The National Minority Business Council distributed an open letter to US President Barack Obama regarding the killing of Osama Bin Laden. NMBC queried whether this slaying would quell American fears of terrorism and what could be done about the economy. While the link between the stalled economy and Bin Laden needs strengthening, it is an opportunity to reflect on the anxiety, fear and terror

Threats of Government Shutdown

2011-04-09T07:49:00.000-05:00

Every time I hear the expression "government shutdown," I smirk. If shut down meant the US Senators & their staff, US Representatives & their staff, US President, Vice-President & the Cabinet Secretaries and their staff didn't get paid until the federal budget was hammered out, then I would be for a government shut down. But that doesn't occur. Shut down affects the other US citizens affected

Intelligent Use of Broadband

2011-03-31T11:01:00.000-05:00

Wireless devices are connected via satellites; wired devices by fiber optics. When communication companies and governments made an all out effort to lay broadband underground and under the oceans, it opened the door for emerging economies, remote communities, and post industrial strong arms “to get busy.” The Intelligent Community Forum (ICF) was birthed 2004 to encourage broadband’s best use

BDPA, Closing the Digital Divide

2011-03-18T16:16:00.001-05:00

In a time where someone can broadcast his political platform through Vimeo and professionals get advice through LinkedIn, there is still a need for a membership association that facilitates face-to-face meetings between information technologists. BDPA is the national association on a drive to organize blacks in technology into a unified field of technological expertise. “Black Data

Comcast Wants to Stream Straight to the iPad

2011-03-18T16:08:00.001-05:00

Comcast wants to offer TV anywhere you are—with that iPad or other tablet PC. Realizing how popular YouTube is with the “mobile crowd,” Comcast engineered Xfinity TV app (version 2.0) to stream live video content to iPads, iPhones and Androids. Chief executive for Comcast Brian Roberts announced at the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, that the Xfinity TV app will come to market in

Wireless Giants, Mobile Device Makers Flaunt 4G Dreams

2011-03-04T05:11:00.000-05:00

4G, LTE, Wi Max, or HSPA+ networks? They add up to the fourth generation in the long term evolution of getting-it-to-me-yesterday—crisp and clear. The 2011 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Jan 6-9, was the platform for tablet, smartphone and modem makers Motorola, Lenovo, Samsung, Cisco, Asus and Dell to display their line of slim, lightweight and highly productive mobile tools.

Amazon Android App Store Still Shuttered

2011-03-03T09:57:00.000-05:00

Amazon apparently wants to ‘open the doors’ to its Android App Store with all fixtures securely fastened, staff well-trained and products triply tested. The tech media world was abuzz with stories and blogs about this formidable contender to Google Android Market, the number one app store. Many, like Wired magazine and Techcrunch, thought the online service would launch October 2010; however,

How Smart Can Your Appliances Be?

2011-03-01T21:08:00.000-05:00

How smart can your appliances be? As smart as humans make them is an answer. Also key is how well humans sell them. LG Electronics Home Appliances Company developed LG THINQ (“thin –Q”) technology which connects home appliances with smartphones, tablets and PCs. Such appliances as refrigerators, washing machines, ovens, televisions and Hom-Bots can be activated to turn on and off, adjust

Another Final Solution--Now in Costa Rica

2010-10-19T05:39:00.004-05:00

The Earth is a paradise. Its varying climates, vast oceans and smaller seas and the beautiful plant life are awe inspiring. More awe to touch your soul are creatures that live in the water, in the soil, on the ground, the trees, and perch on mountain cliffs. Within this paradise humans live. Human intentions have us blind to the paradise in which we exist. Business matters brought me to Costa

Re-Thinking Early Learn NYC

2010-05-11T14:53:00.003-05:00

The Early Learn NYC concept paper dramatically alters how child care and early childhood education services are delivered to New York City’s lower income families. In fact, the requirement of enrolling parents who can afford out of pocket Early Childhood Education expenses indicates a move toward serving a more affluent sector of the city. Current ACS-funded programs need to ask whether, in the

NYC Charter Revision Commission

2010-04-10T08:02:00.003-05:00

Mayor Bloomberg appointed the latest charter revision commisssion, March 3, 2010. This commission will review the city's existing charter, which is similar to the by-laws and articles of incorporation for a nonprofit. The last charter revision was done in 1989. The issue is what is prompting Mayor Bloomberg to want to tweak the charter but another time? Judging from his success in extending

Persistence Yields Rewards for African American Farmers

2010-03-23T00:23:00.004-05:00

The National Black Farmers Association (NBFA) sought $2.5 billion for its suit against the US Department of Agriculture for racially discriminatory practices of the federal farm credit program but agrees to $1.25 billion on the condition the funds are appropriated by March 31, 2010. This money bundles $100 million from a 2008 Congressional allocation and $1.15 billion from President Barack Obama.

City of Wellness Settled Across The Pond?

2010-01-26T15:41:00.004-05:00

Queen Afua, the one who spawned the Heal Thyself Center, Heal Thyself 21-Day Fast, Sacred Woman Initiation, City of Wellness and Queen Afua Wellness Institute, is known for her travels to global destinations to profess the power of a natural and holistic lifestyle for total body, mind and spirit wellness. She’s broadcast her message on television and radio. She’s arranged numerous

Brooklyn Response to Haiti Disaster

2010-01-26T15:19:00.003-05:00

The aftermath of the one-minute, 7.0 earthquake that toppled such towns as Port-au-Prince and Jacmel, has the world rushing to provide rescue assistance to Haiti. Brooklyn Borough Hall was the place for the January 15, 2010 Haiti Earthquake Relief meeting. Co-hosts included Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz, Deputy Borough President Yvonne Graham, the Caribbean American Chamber of

WBAI Local Station Board Members Elected Under Storm

2010-01-13T20:26:00.001-05:00

WBAI-FM experienced a raucous election process for the nine listener and three staff seats on the local station board (LSB). Candidates called themselves independent, Justice and Unity Team members or Take Forward WBAI Coalition aligned. The ballot counting for the December 10, 2009 election resulted in Mitchell Cohen, Lynne Stewart, Alex Steinberg, Nia Bediako, Andrea Fishman, Russell Dale,

Is Eminent Domain Abuse Government Abuse

2010-01-13T20:01:00.005-05:00

Spurred by deep concern over the use of eminent domain across New York state to advance real estate development, St. Senator Bill Perkins (30 S.D.), chair of Senate Committee on Corporations, Authorities and Commissions held a community meeting December 19, 2009 at Manhattan Pentecostal Church. He brought together attorneys and representatives of communities facing disruption, namely Develop Don

Mark Griffith, Young Lion Proceeding Instinctively

2009-11-17T17:28:00.002-05:00

Was it the words of Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. in his “Why We Can’t Wait” speech that encouraged Mark Winston Griffith to run for the 36th NYC Council seat? Was it simply a personal vision of change in his community? Whatever compelled him, Griffith diligently connected with grassroot, borough and city stakeholders, while respectfully acknowledging encumbent Albert Vann. During his brief

Green Thoughts for Green Backs

2009-10-28T10:00:00.003-05:00

My business is still operating because early 2008 a national nonprofit involved in healthcare improvement approached me to do community outreach within the five boroughs. By late 2009 we executed a three-year contract. Prior to that connection, I got certified as MBE for NYC, NYS and the Port Authority of NY & NJ. I also registered with many NYC agencies' vendor online procurement systems; e.g.

Civil Disobedience to Reform US Healthcare System

2009-10-21T02:36:00.002-05:00

“The US needs single payer healthcare and nothing less,” said Healthcare-Now!’s Naomi Brussell who stood in front of 99 Park Avenue, the headquarters of Aetna, on September 29, 2009, as others strode the demonstration lines Earlier that day, 17 people from Act Up were arrested for staging a sit-in within the hallway in front of Aetna’s executive offices.Such groups as Healthcare-Now!, Private

October 24 is 350 Parts recognition day

2009-10-15T17:38:00.003-05:00

Summer rolled into fall and I've been battling with roaches and flies for months. I finally laid down more roach motels because I have misgivings about mashing these critters. They say to me, "We don't know nothing about apartments or buildings or property. We just know where to find water and food."I'd mash them some more and a scout would run back to tell the others of my deathly ways. These

Central Harlem Health Revival Wants Us to Take Charge of Our Health

2009-10-12T18:13:00.002-05:00

Yes, there is a great life beyond mac & cheese. There’s a life without fried chicken and white rice. There’s a life full of vigor, vibrancy and expectancy in each moment when exercise, tasty, good nutrition and rest reign. The Central Harlem Health Revival (CHHR) is on a mission to show Harlem residents the path of health and well being. Central Harlem Health Revival claims victory over obesity,

Birds of Feather Cowork Together

2009-07-11T07:58:00.003-05:00

BSHINE, a YahooGroups, had a notice for a coworking date in Stuyvesant Heights (247 Stuyvesant Avenue) for Friday, July 10. Being it was close and in the 'community,' I was game. I wanted to meet the other black techies or artsy folks that needed a group environment to stay sane.It featured yoga in the morning, a cooking demo in the afternoon and a talk about coworking at 3:30 PM. Since much of

Another Zipster Born

2009-06-03T09:32:00.000-05:00

Back in March, the city of New York pulled a fast one on me and my reliable, dented-but-beautiful Honda Civic. This car turned over in below freezing weather, despite not getting a tune up. Dented Beauty and I parked at a spot near the Farragut Houses, after circling the block, studying signs on poles and the gate.I threw the car door shut and hurried to my appointment with lively silver-haired

Crowd Jeers As Elected Protect Their Interest in Atlantic Yards

2009-06-03T09:27:00.000-05:00

Amidst much jeering and booing, NYS Senate Corporations, Authorities and Commissions Committee conducted a public hearing at Pratt Institute to ascertain the status of the Atlantic Yards/FCR project, March 29, 2009. Bill Perkins (30 SD, Manh.), committee chair and the sole committee member present, St. Senator Velmanette Montgomery (18 SD, Bk.), Martin Golden (22 SD, Bk.), Karl Kruger (27 SD, Bk

Carl Hum Watches Out for Brooklyn Businesses

2009-05-06T03:12:00.002-05:00

The Brooklyn business community has one of their own to champion commerce through Carl Hum, Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce CEO and president. Did he have visions of thriving shopping corridors and industrial parks as a boy playing in Sunset Park? Maybe not immediately but his career path was decidedly an interest in economic development by the time he was a young man.A BA from Wesleyan University,

Economic Wellness Stimulus Package

2009-04-20T09:33:00.002-05:00

The next Queen Afua Wellness Institute fasting shut-in, slated for March 21, 2009 at Harlem’s National Black Theater, will be a decidedly different event for the public. Promoted as the Economic Wellness Stimulus Package, this shut-in showcases the preliminary results of a twelve-week disease prevention and optimal wellness program, which is a collaboration between Queen Afua, holistic wellness

Is There Joy in Your Jewelry?

2009-04-17T10:51:00.002-05:00

Are you wearing jewelry or are you wearing joy-elry? Did you get your ring from an expensive Tiffany’s shop to proclaim your financial status or did you bargain with a street vendor for the lowest price for that cowry shell-festooned bracelet? Did you visit Studio of Ptah in Chinatown to get gold, silver or brass pieces that give respect and honor to the highest and advanced culture that

Central Brooklyn Ensures Due Process for Homeless Intake Center

2009-04-13T07:45:00.003-05:00

Central Brooklyn elected, Brooklyn Community Board 8, Crow Hill Association, Crown Heights North Association and other community groups put their collective foot down, Sunday March 8, to ensure the City Department of Homeless Services complies with land use/fair share analysis, environmental reviews, and responding substantively to community concerns regarding converting the Bedford-Atlantic

Roy Hastick, One Master of Networking

2009-04-13T07:40:00.004-05:00

The founder of the Caribbean-American Chamber of Commerce (CACCI) is like most leaders astute, charismatic and controversial. Roy Hastick, Sr. migrated from Grenada to the US in 1976 with many plans, all of them fired by a want to dramatically improve his standing in society and do the same for others. Dr. Hastick is known for saying in a calm, steady voice, “You can lead a camel to water but

PC Knowldege Base

2009-04-09T22:05:00.002-05:00

Last week, I had one inciddent after the other with a Compaq Presarion 5200. Anyone with a little PC sense, knows the PC is outdated. Yes, but I hold onto it nonetheless. It gets less and less.First the keyboard and mouse would freeze. I figured out that if I didn't touch the keyboard, the mouse worked indefinitely. Trouble is I can't write new email nor respond to email. The same is true

Politicos are Just Public Servants for Sake of Recovery

2009-04-09T21:58:00.003-05:00

US Representatives Yvette Clarke and Ed Towns packed Brooklyn Academy of Music with curious, hopeful Brooklynites, Saturday, April 4, 2009. The draw was learning what New Yorkers stand to gain from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009—a/k/a Obama Money. Using the town hall model, news commentator Errol Louis emceed the cavalcade of satisfied Democratic leaders, deputy mayors, and

Gale Brewer Wants NTIA to Keep Coupons Available

2009-01-13T11:36:00.003-05:00

After hearing about the NTIA's decision to place folks who requested converter box coupons after January 4, 2009 on a waiting list, NY Councilwoman Gale Brewer got concerned. The finally act that put Brewer in motion was distributing the coupons on a first-come-first-served basis. This act puts too many people at risk of not receiving coupons. This would be a hardship to many low income New

Publicly-Funded Can Stand Some E-Government

2009-01-11T13:08:00.005-05:00

For at least three years, New York City's publicly funded child care providers have been on pins and needles about their existence. They're accused of not collecting parent fees, being under-enrolled and/or not hiring certified teachers quickly. Let's face it, if you were certified by the NYS Education Department, would you prefer being compensated the 40 odd thousand dollars running a public

Anti-Virus Utilities Unveiled

2008-12-20T08:51:00.006-05:00

Thomas Ross is a IT pro who's mad with his fellow security professionals. He thinks there's too much not explained to consumers so people have to rely on PC techs for every small and big issue.I contacted him through a friend (Clairesa Clay) because my PC ran slow, the keyboard or mouse didn't respond or the machine wouldn't stay on. It took me a month to finally follow his suggestion "to call

Podcasting 101

2008-11-25T11:25:00.003-05:00

The spoken word still carries weight and reading the lips that speak the words still closes a deal. Whether the subject is business, a social cause or soul inspiration, having your say, by podcasting, is as easy as 1-2-3-4-5 and very affordable. “Podcasting is distributing an audio file or video over the Internet from a blog, Web site or social media like MySpace or Facebook,” explains Andreas

CES Unveiled 2009

2008-11-12T09:54:00.005-05:00

I really enjoy the press preview for this event. For one, I get to see product that most won't see unless they travel to Las Vegas or until it gets to the market.The press conference included some good questions for CEA CEO Gary Shapiro. One was about the closing of Circuit City. Yes, this economy have boards cutting people off at the knees to maintain their salaries. Shapiro looked at from the

PC woes

2008-11-04T11:08:00.003-05:00

Sorry about the spate of white screen. My PC got very obstinate and didn't want to stay on. The computer tech held on to it for a few days before releasing it to me.I'm sure you know to have more than one computer tech to call on when things go on the blink.

Venture Capitalists Talk Smart Money Moves

2008-11-04T11:04:00.001-05:00

Venture capitalists talked about smart money moves during this financial restructuring period at CresaPartners, October 29, 2008. Around the table were Joseph Killackey of NewSpring Capital and Lindzen Capital Partners’ Kristian Hansen, both invest in digital media and technology companies. Why listen to technology VCs, given they were involved in the dot-com bust of the 90’s? Listen because

Brooklyn 2.0 Proves Silicon Alley Crossed East River

2008-10-18T12:57:00.002-05:00

Brooklyn 2.0 is a place for web developers, application developers and tech hobbyists to get together. It's another MeetUp that usually convenes at the Pacific Standard Bar on Fourth Avenue. This group doesn't work from an agenda; rather, it's organic and spontaneous. The people who come are welcoming and just want to know what you do and how you do it.This is not the place to keep things too

Bed Stuy Alive! Street Festival Is Decidedly Different

2008-10-18T12:38:00.004-05:00

What do you say to a street festival that puts the Brownstoners of Bedford Stuyvesant yards away from a stage ablaze with the best in Afro Punk? One may say, ‘smart,’ when you know that the Brownstoners are one the sponsors of the weeklong Bed Stuy Alive! 2008. Reggie Shell, founding member of the Brownstoners says, “Bedford-Stuyvesant has always been a great place to live and raise a family. We

Are Yahoo Groups So Expired?

2008-09-26T12:28:00.003-05:00

Two years ago at a biotechnology conference, a PR Newswire employee brusquely explained that doing Yahoo Group just wasn't the thing to do anymore. He didn't school me on what I ought to do. Luckily, I was blogging and learning about Meet Up. Much later, I got turned onto MyRagan.com. This past winter, I was clued into Ning which allows anyone to start her personal social media.Where

Web 2.0 NY at Javits Center

2008-09-20T18:03:00.004-05:00

The exhibitors at technology expos are as fascinating as the seminars running on the other floor. Thursday, I was turned away from a room because I had an 'Expo Only' tag around my neck. How was I to know? The huge directory read 'Web 2.0 New York' and the room was as big as an exhibit hall.Once on the Expo Hall floor proper, it was amazing to find the "in the clouds"products that programmers

Web 2.0 NY MEET UP

2008-09-04T11:24:00.004-05:00

People think up web applications for fun and for profit. Sometimes the creations conceived from the spirit of fun are more impressive than those driven by the profit margin. Joseph Campbell's "Follow your bliss" directive is all the difference.At the August 2008 Web 2.0 NY Meet Up, six apps were presented by PR-smart techies. They didn't let no access to the Internet stop their show. Sailthru.com

Crown Hts Says No to Homeless Intake Center

2008-08-15T04:20:00.003-05:00

Crown Heights residents with calm resolve said, “No,” to NYC Department of Homeless Services plan to relocate the men’s homeless intake center from Bellevue men’s shelter in Manhattan to the Atlantic Armory Shelter located at the corner of Atlantic and Bedford Avenues in Brooklyn. Rather than belligerently bash the messenger, whom was DHS Deputy Commissioner for Adult Services/Operations George

PR Talks All The Time

2008-08-08T11:59:00.006-05:00

Pity the public relations professional because he's on call all the time. It's harder than being a flight attendant. Flight attendants smile and serve before the flight, during the flight and after the flight. Once everyone's off the plane, they can let down those smiles and cheery dispositions for a few hours.Not so for PR folks. We're about crisis management, investor relations, community

New York Uses Diamond to Close the Digital Divide

2008-08-03T16:31:00.001-05:00

Across the globe in cities like Philadelphia, Paris, and Beijing citizens and institutions enjoy 24/7 high-speed Internet access, using broadband technology. Even Manassas, VA (2006 pop. est. 38,066) has broadband over power lines, making the Internet as close as a wall socket. The Big Apple, however, is lost in its sauce. What blocks New York from closing the digital divide so that every section

Like Deer Staring into the Headlights

2008-08-02T12:22:00.006-05:00

While news reports still won't use the word depression to label the economic picture for America, we have the symptoms of a depression. 70% of American homeowners are at risk of foreclosure. GM lost $15 billion in sales because people stopped buying trucks and SUVs in the first two quarters of 2008. The airline industry is laying off employees and Starbucks will close 3,000 outlets. With

Twitter Shy

2008-07-24T18:16:00.006-05:00

Always one to learn about the latest communication craze, I finally tried Twitter when someone informed me that it wasn't the side screens filled with text messages for panelists at tech conferences that were the buzz. It was all the Twittering that went unnoticed. Always on the watch for a hook-up or meet-up, the C-level audience is busy telling "the crew" in and outside of the convention center

NYC Schools Have a Brief Scare

2008-07-04T17:57:00.003-05:00

The Mayor told the Chancellor, so the Chancellor told the Principals. The Chancellor told the Principals told them that it would be just $500,000 cut from their operating budgets for the next school term.The Chancellor shook in his boots and so did the Principals. But the City Council members of NYC didn't shake or quake. They roared. They roared with the Keep The Promise Coalition. The

Ratner Rally And Opposition

2008-06-13T16:53:00.003-05:00

In the face of the nation’s economic downturn and rumor of the Nets basketball team sell off, Atlantic Yards backers chose Brooklyn Day, June 5, 2008, for a show of strength. Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz, union leaders, the elected and others carpeted Brooklyn Borough Hall steps that face the Supreme Court Building. Community Benefits Agreement Chair Dee Hunley-Adossa warmly

Total Black TV Fills Void Left By BET

2008-06-01T01:24:00.004-05:00

Does cable, DirecTV and regular TV leave you feeling as if you’re missing something? Could “what’s missing” be programming that relates to the core values and interests of the black community? If so, visit TotalBlackTV.com. Total Black TV is the cyber spot to view, download and upload black video content. Knowing the diversity of interests, the

Keeping NYC Kids Needs in the Budget

2008-05-31T11:17:00.002-05:00

Families, nonprofits, unions, and NY City Council members converged on City Hall’s steps, on May 28, 2008, in a show of solidarity for quality and adequately funded programs for New York’s kids—from crib to the high school prom. In the face of a “4.2 billion city budget surplus,” these advocates are amazed that Mayor Bloomberg intends to drastically cut money for child care centers, public

Elder Care: Is Dementia Really Normal?

2008-05-07T11:23:00.006-05:00

A friend is caring for her terminally ill father. He wasn't around much when she was growing up. Now, she finds herself and siblings giving him round-the-clock care. That's the irony of life and compassion that some people have. I mentioned to her that at a certain age there's always something that you have to be concerned about. If it's not an insecure mate, it's adult children who still

That Immediate Response to a Crisis

2008-04-25T11:27:00.008-05:00

It was good for Continental Airlines at the West Palm Beach, FL hub that folks on flight 1940 weren't digitally astute. This flight was due to leave for Newark, NJ, Sunday, April 6, 2008, 8:00 PM. Due to mechanical problems, the plane wasn't approved for flying until Monday, April 7 at 2:00 PM. A tech adept would've fired up the laptop or handheld and blogged about it, moment by moment.It took

Racism 101: Explaining The Obvious

2008-04-23T11:42:00.004-05:00

There was a gathering of intellectuals at a Brooklyn brownstone earlier in April. Coming straight from a vacation in bright, hot and lush West Palm Beach, I walked over not knowing what to expect. The topic was how the economic downturn would increase racial tensions. My question was whether the group would talk tactics or would this be theoretical. Being an American person of color, I don't need

the Grave Yard

2008-03-25T13:00:00.006-05:00

The Grave Yard is the first computer game that I downloaded. It's very reflective rather than action packed or goal-oriented. The setting is a cemetery within a busy city. Everything is so grey. Just shades of gray in the grave yard. The street sounds are clear and the moving clouds really evoke a real world experience. Auriea Harvey and Michael Samyn must have overdosed on Stephen King's novels

PC Hot Wired

2008-03-23T14:12:00.004-05:00

Does anyone else notice how hours on the computer make it difficult to sleep at night? My physician says my cerebellum is overactive. He prescribed these capsules that have at least ten different herbs in them to soothe the brain. The first time he gave them to me I had to take 21 capsules for two nights. Thereafter, two before bed time. This was because my head was so hot wired.Think about it.

For a Beat, a Rhythm and Melody

2008-03-05T10:28:00.005-05:00

Digital Music Forum East, held Feb. 26-27, 2008, is an industry event co-sponsored by Digital Media Wire and Consumer Electronics Association that discusses the profits from the want of a beat, a rhythm and melody. Powerhouse executives from Napster, AOL Black Voices, SONY BMG, Bluhammock Music, Wired magazine, MP3tunes, Definitive Jux, Microsoft and Epic Records expressed their views on how to

NYC Admin for Children Services Has Centers at Each Other's Throats

2008-03-02T09:28:00.006-05:00

A November 2007 letter from ACS Commissioner Robert Mattingly says all center- and family-based providers have until April 30, 2008 to be enrolled to license capacity—no excuses. Publicly funded childcare services all over the city face closing, sponsor board merging or sharing space with other centers if they can’t meet the goal. This situation is similar to the closings and mergers experienced

Hillary's Jagged Aura

2008-03-01T23:49:00.005-05:00

Hillary Rodham Clinton aint no Bill Clinton. He's all charm, compassion and intellect; Hillary, on the other hand, has a severe edge to her intellect. Isn't that so typical in marriages--the good cop and bad cop? The question is do you want a bad cop to run America? Will she know the right words to calm our fears or cheer us on at stellar moments?Hasn't anyone told her about it? Doesn't she watch

From the Ground Up PR

2008-03-01T23:31:00.004-05:00

Time flew by since the last entry due to an emergency PR project. It requires a combination of conventional promotional tactics and using social media.It's quite incredulous how you learn the real deal once a colleague asks for help. It's a longstanding human service organization that didn't get the knack of community and government relations. My task is to develop a rolodex and automatte

Getting the Story on Brooklyn's Ad High School

2008-02-16T09:59:00.009-05:00

Brooklyn is the home to the nation's first public high school for advertising. If there's another one preceeding it, please tell me. It's name is High School for Innovation in Advertising and Media and it will open September 2008 within Canarsie High School. I'm pleased to be third to break the story in NYC. The first publisher of the story is the NY Daily News. I had a writing embargo until

Meeting Up

2008-02-15T11:28:00.004-05:00

Brooklyn 2.0 is a MeetUp group I recently joined. We gathered at Mooney's Pub on Flatbush Avenue, Weds., Feb 13. Nice crowd. The organizer Eric Rochow is an amiable sort. Then, of course the draft beer had everyone mellow and sociable. Rochow does podcasting about easy green practices for people. Check out Real World Green.My personal agenda was hunting for tech stories and learning to blog more

Safekeeping

2008-02-02T19:35:00.001-05:00

Experts say this generation of African Americans has the most educated, affluent and influential in society compared to previous ones. An unobtrusive scan into some homes reveal the luxury vehicles, outdoor grills, wine collections, oriental rugs, original artwork and home entertainment systems. In fact, many unmarried women own homes, whether they are condos or detached, single-family corner

Is the President’s Economic Package Up for Public Scrutiny?

2008-02-02T19:21:00.000-05:00

President George Bush aimed to start 2008 with a shot in the arm when he proposed a $150 million economic growth package, on January 18. The package is a one-year disbursal of personal tax rebates and business tax incentives. Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson believes the package “will counter the effects of higher gas prices, the capital market downturn,” subprime mortgage lending terms,

GossipGirl, Revealed

2008-01-29T12:29:00.001-05:00

Last night was the first time I saw GossipGirl. I got pulled into the mix of blogging, mobile life and decadence. It was quite by accident. When I do watch TV on Mondays, it seems that it's "How I Met Your Mother" that I'll get comfortable with. CBS has this irrestible folksy-charm formula that still works on me. CBS has been using it for decades.I actually don't know what day "How I Met Your Mom

What I Love About Wired Magazine

2008-01-26T15:46:00.001-05:00

Wired is one of my favorite magazines. My peculiar way of reading is to scan through it as I tear out the pages of advertising. Don't get me wrong; we need advertising but sometimes it gets in the way of the great stories and shorts in Wired. The magazine goes down smooth and some of that advertising is smooth, too. Some of the ads are quite informational.The February 2008 issue with Sarah

Film Review: Inside the Circle

2008-01-18T23:18:00.001-05:00

Inside the Circle is a kinetically inspiring documentary about the world of b-boys and “breaking” as lived through three young Texans, Josh, Omar and Romeo. This film is a testament to the cultural staying power of break dancing, which originated in 1970’s The Bronx, New York. It screened during the 2008 Dance on Camera film festival at Lincoln Center’s Walter Reade Theater, January 6 and 11.Fast

Space Is The Place

2008-01-18T21:56:00.002-05:00

‘Ever said to yourself, “If I could get a hold of $10 million, I’d solve world hunger, the energy crisis, or a disease?” What about $15 million dollars to provide safe and affordable outer space travel? The X Prize Foundation is doing just that. Teaming with Google Corp, the X Prize Foundation offers a $30 million cash award to the first two privately funded teams to land and rove a robotic craft

Travel Expo, Presses "Think Adventure"

2008-01-15T05:29:00.000-05:00

The Adventures in Travel Expo had its NYC run at the Unconvention Center at Pier 94, January 12 -13, 2008. It was an interesting way to pass a winter weekend. In the midst of chilly harbor winds and threats of snow fall, visitors dream of vacations in warmer climes. Isn't that the usual for New Yorkers--think about snow in the summer and palm trees in the winter?The exhibitors were set up in the

I Am Legend Afterthought

2008-01-12T08:05:00.001-05:00

A friend and I saw I Am Legend recently. We were blown away by the film. We both were clutching our hearts and talking our way through the movie. "Talking our way through the movie" means in order to regain composure, we had to talk. In truth, I gave up watching horror films 15 years ago because I think it's crazy to build up tension in my body and digest all those images into my psyche. Seeing

There's Still No Such Thing as a Free Lunch

2008-01-07T17:33:00.001-05:00

Just as multilevel schemes, once called pyramids, come and go, there's an ebb and flow for the search for grants by small businesses. Over the holiday, I heard two people talking about needing a hedge for retirement. One person was retired from the federal government--USPS--and saw her funds shrinking monthly. She was in her 70's. If she continued to live, her pension would not be her sustenance.

Organic, Auction or Guerrilla?

2007-12-29T12:19:00.001-05:00

After reading a few articles by Dave Pasternak, Kevin Lee and Mark Simon--all executives with Did-It--it sounds as if search engine marketing is over the heads of the average business professional. After all it is advertising on search engines. If search engines have particular algorithms that guide them that must mean you need to know programming or statistics to make intelligent moves.Kevin Lee

Lonny Love, Airbrush Artisan and Entrepreneur

2007-12-29T10:44:00.002-05:00

Lonny Love is an airbrush artist who started out spraying graffiti on walls. After many run-ins with property owners and police, he realized that he could make money from his art. He's been a professional airbrush artist for 18 years.His canvases are t-shirts, sneakers, jeans, hoodies, "Tims", fitted caps and trucker caps. He quite talented and much sought after. Lonny's significant customer base

Vendors' World

2007-12-29T10:08:00.001-05:00

Some die-hard vendors invited me to work with them to learn the trade. I found that it is lucrative and a means to grow an empire. The empire is there only if you have a plan. Many vendors deal with the enterprise on its elemental level, though. It's a pity. My days of traveling to suburban schools, churches and malls were eye-opening. I saw, on-the-ground, the state of the US' economy. Visitors

Talking Shop is Natural in PR

2007-12-05T13:15:00.000-05:00

A senior account executive for a maverick firm that's making much waves in PR talked a little shop with me recently. He gave me different pointers on getting and keeping a job, client services and salary negotiation. I asked about favorite spots where communicators go to unwind. He said that there weren't places like that because PR folks tend to keep a distance from one another due to the

Going Direct

2007-11-28T13:26:00.001-05:00

Mike Moran , in his book Do It Wrong Quickly, explains that branding and brand recognition originated from the introduction of broadcast media. Before radio and TV, people would travel to Main Street and shop at the local stores. You purchased food, clothes and other staples without thought to who the manufacturers were. You wanted candy? You stuck your hand in a big glass jar and dug for your

Thanksgiving Is Feast or Famine for Retailers

2007-11-25T07:23:00.001-05:00

Recent NYC news broadcasts indicate that retailers know Friday after Thanksgiving is the tipping point to the US economy. No one uses the words recession or depression but this downturn is a real drag.Retailers want to know are US shoppers willing to buy the great products on the shelves. Are US shoppers able to pay the prices for the great prducts on the shelves?One TV reporter, two days before

Client Impostor

2007-11-22T06:40:00.000-05:00

Though communications is my preference, I take on government funding applications for clients in need. The trouble is knowing new clients from impostors: people who want to pick brains. If you're in business it's part of the business. Going through introductions with someone who really should just ask for advice and pay for the hour.This short week I encountered one--an impostor--who wanted to

FOT: Future of Television

2007-11-14T13:01:00.003-05:00

Digital Media Wire, New York University and Consumer Electronics Association co-hosted Future of Television NYC conference at Museum of Jewish Heritage, November 8 & 9. I had time for one panel and one keynote the last day. Did I get bang for my buck. Both were straight ahead and live & direct. In other words, all involved spoke in the affirmative that advertising dollars are to be earned. Warner

At the Central Brooklyn Public Library

2007-11-07T19:14:00.001-05:00

I frequently go to the library to borrow videos and DVDs. They have a great store of world cinema. This time I decided to access the Internet. A few years ago, my PC was in the shop and I was dependent on good ole Brooklyn Public Library for a week. I never forgot how I was able to check my email, visit websites and modify documents by signing up for time in different sections of the library.

Is Cramping That Bad?

2007-11-05T11:13:00.001-05:00

There are TV ads for a new contraceptive pill that reduces menstruation to four periods a year. This pill is called Seasonique. Maybe the name indicates that a consumer only bleeds with the change of the seasons. The ad features one woman who pleases both her emotional side, dressed in jeans and a gorgeous empire waist blouse, and her logical side, dressed in office attire.The sides of this lady

Is Tech Really Buried Treasure?

2007-10-23T09:10:00.001-05:00

Even with all the technology trade shows at Jacob Javits Center, Internet cafes in places like Bed-Stuy and Crown Hts., NYC government is still unsure just how big the tech industry is. How can that be? The mayor Michael Bloomberg runs a financial services megagiant powered by information technology.Maybe it’s a matter of documenting it and reading the numbers over and over that’s required. On

Don’t Miss DigitalLife Ever Again

2007-10-16T13:14:00.001-05:00

DigitalLife is a major consumer technology trade show. In its fourth year, technologists and consumers visit Jacob K. Javits Center the fourth weekend in September to watch, handle, sample, experience and click the latest HD TVs, cellphones, PCs, digital cameras and virtual life gaming products. This year it was open from September 27 – 30. Products were organized around five DigitalLife

Advertising Week2007

2007-10-16T13:07:00.001-05:00

In its fourth year, Advertising Week2007 ran from September 24 – 28 in various venues in New York City. The splashy event drew advertising and media leaders from the US and Canada. This year’s focus was social impact, talent and diversity. Advertising agencies recognize the Internet’s rise as an important media that supports do-it-yourself programming. More Americans turn from ads that sell but

Got Jelly?

2007-10-09T20:00:00.000-05:00

Jelly.com is Amit Gupta’s answer to breaking up days of solitary computer work with a day of shared workspace with other techies. Every two weeks, people bring their laptops over to his small apartment to work on job or school projects, from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.His home has a wireless connection. There’s no fee and no dress code. Some days there is a lot of brainstorming and resource

Lulu For Self-Publishing

2007-09-25T03:03:00.000-05:00

Lulu (www.lulu.com) is the digital marketplace to buy, sell or display your words, your art and your ideas. Launched in 2002, this Web site is the place to self-publish videos, music, artistic creations and photography. CEO Bob Young conceived of this site as the means for more people to gain access to the world’s consumer market. The content generator—-writer, artist, photgrapher—-keeps

Crazy as a Fox 5

2007-09-04T18:06:00.000-05:00

Fox News at 5 PM was dead set on showing a negative face to the 40th West Indian/Labor Day Parade. Although the broadcasters described it as New York City's largest parade, Fox never showed shots of the floats, dancers, stiltwalkers, or trucks. In fact, there was a party of christians asking people did they want to pray. The Brooklyn Catholic Archdiocese paraded on a truck. It was an event

Is it Marketing, Promotion or Advertising?

2007-08-14T13:45:00.000-05:00

In the years I've been in business I realize that people are using words without understanding what they mean. In some instances, it's not understanding what they need. Case in point is what are marketing, promotion and advertising? If you're a business, it's different ways to communicate that you have something to sell. If you're a nonprofit, it's the means to let people know you offer a

Getting Too Social on Social Media

2007-08-13T11:05:00.000-05:00

This column has extolled the democratization of news, opinion and commerce through social media; i.e., everyone has a chance to sell their product and give a piece of their mind. One, Save Darfur, Just 8 Bucks and Current TV have been featured because of their taking-the-message-to-the-street approach. They take the message to the streets and ask the people to construct and launch the plan.

Dateline NBC: Talk About High Tailing It

2007-08-13T10:56:00.000-05:00

By the year 2007, most Americans with email accounts have received at least one emailed letter from a foreign banker, lawyer or relative of a deceased Third World ruler that requests your assistance in moving a huge sum of money. Sometimes the letter asks that the money be moved into your account; others request that you assist in moving the sum to another account. Most of us delete these

Peterkin in Focus

2007-07-25T11:34:00.000-05:00

Lem Peterkin is the tall, burly photojournalist whose work is seen in many New York City publications. Peterkin says the New York Times, New York Newsday, New York Post and every African-American newspaper use his photos. Peterkin was surprised that anyone knew his first name because his photo credit has become consistently photograph by Peterkin. Rather than fight the name drop, he capitalizes