Resources/Inspiration

RESOURCEs

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                                                Benefits for ages 50+
 

Dunkin Donuts gives free coffee to people over 55. If you're paying for a cup every day, you might want to start getting it for free.

• Arby’s: 10% off (55+)
  
• Ben & Jerry’s: 10% off (60+)
  
• Bennigan’s: discount varies by location
  
• Bob’s Big Boy: discount varies by location (60+)
  
• Boston Market: 10% off (65+)
  
• Burger King: 10% off (60+)
  
• Captain D’s Seafood: discount varies on location (62+)
  
• Chick-Fil-A: 10% off or free small drink or coffee (55+)
  
• Chili’s: 10% off (55+)
  
• CiCi’s Pizza: 10% off (60+)
  
• Culver’s: 10% off (60+)
  
• Denny’s: 10% off, 20% off for AARP members (55+)
  
• Dunkin’ Donuts: 10% off or free coffee (55+)
  
• Einstein’s Bagels: 10% off baker’s dozen of bagels (60+)
  
• <>Fuddrucker’s: 10% off any senior platter (55+)
<><>Gatti’s Pizza: 10% off (60+)
• Hardee’s: $0.33 beverages everyday (65+)
  
• IHOP: 10% off (55+)
  
• Jack in the Box: up to 20% off (55+)
  
• KFC: free small drink with any meal (55+)
  
• Krispy Kreme: 10% off (50+)
  
• Long John Silver’s: various discounts at participating locations (55+)
  
• McDonald’s: discounts on coffee everyday (55+)
  
• Mrs. Fields: 10% off at participating locations (60+)
  
• Shoney’s: 10% off
  
• Sonic: 10% off or free beverage (60+)
  
• Steak ‘n Shake: 10% off every Monday & Tuesday (50+)
  
• Subway: 10% off (60+)
  
• Sweet Tomatoes: 10% off (62+)
  
• Taco Bell : 5% off; free beverages for seniors (65+)
  
• TCBY: 10% off (55+)
  
• Tea Room Cafe: 10% off (50+)
  
• Village Inn: 10% off (60+)
  
• Waffle House: 10% off every Monday (60+)
  
• Wendy’s: 10% off (55+)
  
• White Castle: 10% off (62+)
• 
  

Retail  And Apparel

• Banana Republic: 10% off (50+)
  
• Bealls: 20% off first Tuesday of each month (50+)
  
• Belk’s: 15% off first Tuesday of every month (55+)
  
• Big Lots: 10% off
  
• Bon-Ton Department Stores: 15% off on senior discount days (55+)
  
• C.J. Banks: 10% off every Wednesday (60+)
  
• Clarks: 10% off (62+)
  
• Dress Barn: 10% off (55+)
  
• Goodwill: 10% off one day a week (date varies by location)
  
• Hallmark: 10% off one day a week (date varies by location)
  
• Kmart: 20% off (50+)
  
• Kohl’s: 15% off (60+)
  
• Modell’s Sporting Goods: 10% off
  
• Rite Aid: 10% off on Tuesdays & 10% off prescriptions
  
• Ross Stores: 10% off every Tuesday (55+)
  
• The Salvation Army Thrift Stores: up to 50% off (55+)
  
• Stein Mart: 20% off red dot/clearance items first Monday of every month (55+)

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2012 RON BROWN SCHOLAR PROGRAM SEEKS TO GIVE $40K EACH TO TEN AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDENTS

The Ron Brown Scholar Program seeks to identify African-American high school seniors who will make significant contributions
to society. Applicants must excel academically, exhibit exceptional leadership potential, participate in community service
activities and demonstrate financial need. The applicant must be a US citizen or hold a permanent resident visa card.
Current college students are not eligible to apply.

Each year, a minimum of ten students will be designated Ron Brown Scholars and will receive $10,000 annually for four years,
for a total of $40,000. The recipients may use the renewable scholarships to attend an accredited four-year college or
university of their choice within the United States. Ron Brown Scholarships are not limited to any specific field or career
objective and may be used to pursue any academic discipline. More than 250 students have been designated as
Ron Brown Scholars since the inception of the Program.

Ron Brown Scholars are selected in the spring prior to entering college. Applications are screened during the month of February
by Ron Brown Scholar Program staff. In March, finalists are invited to participate in a weekend selection process in
Washington, D.C. at the expense of the CAP Charitable Foundation. Finalists are interviewed by members of the Ron Brown
Selection Committee and are expected to participate in several Selection Weekend activities. Scholarship winners are selected
on the basis of their applications, interviews and participation in Selection Weekend activities.

The deadline to apply is January 9, 2012.

For more details, visit:
www.BlackStudents.com/ronbrownscholars

Info you need to know!

http://www.americanprogress.org/issues/2011/11/conservative_topfive.html

Jobs

http://lashawnkfordjobs.com/11-21-2011%20Jobs%5B1%5D%5B1%5D.pdf

FREE CELL PHONES!

Qualifications:

You must be enrolled in one of the following:
Medicaid, SSI, TANF, School Lunch Program, LIHEAP/CEDA

Check CALENDAR for list of locations or call

312-409-6619 or email

HigherLearningNw@yahoo.com

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FEMA, FCC Announce Nationwide Test of the Emergency Alert System 

Similar to local Emergency Alert System tests, this test is scheduled for November 9, 2011

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will conduct the first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). The national test will occur on Wednesday, November 9 at 1 p.m. (CST) will last 30 seconds.

The EAS is a national alert and warning system established to enable the President of the United States to address the American public during emergencies.  NOAA's National Weather Service, governors and state and local emergency authorities also use parts of the system to issue more localized emergency alerts. 

Similar to local EAS tests that are already conducted frequently, the nationwide test will involve broadcast radio and television stations, cable television, satellite radio and television services and wireline video service providers across all states and the territories of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and American Samoa.

On November 9, the public will hear a message indicating that "This is a test." The audio message will be the same for both radio and television. Under the FCC's rules, radio and television broadcasters, cable operators, satellite digital audio radio service providers, direct broadcast satellite service providers and wireline video service providers are required to receive and transmit presidential EAS messages to the public. A national test will help the federal partners and EAS participants determine the reliability of the system and its effectiveness in notifying the public of emergencies and potential dangers nationally and regionally.

"A national test of our Emergency Alert System, with the vital communications support and involvement of participants, is a step towards ensuring that the alert and warning community is prepared to deliver critical information that can help save lives and protect property," said Damon Penn, FEMA's Assistant Administrator of National Continuity Programs. "Because there has never been an activation of the Emergency Alert System on a national level, FEMA views this test as an excellent opportunity to assess the readiness and effectiveness of the current system.  It is important to remember that this is not a pass or fail test, but a chance to establish a baseline for making incremental improvements to the Emergency Alert System with ongoing and future testing.  It is also important to remember that the Emergency Alert System is one of many tools in our communications toolbox, and we will continue to work on additional channels that can be a lifeline of information for people during an emergency."

"The upcoming national test is critical to ensuring that the EAS works as designed," said Jamie Barnett, Chief of the FCC's Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau.  "As recent disasters here at home and in Japan have reminded us, a reliable and effective emergency alert and warning system is key to ensuring the public's safety during times of emergency.  We look forward to working with FEMA in preparation for this important test."

Over the past two years and as part of ongoing national preparedness planning efforts, FEMA, the FCC and other federal partners, state, local, tribal and territorial governments, Emergency Alert System participants and other stakeholders have been working toward making this test a reality. 

As the federal, state, tribal, territorial and local governments prepare for and test their capabilities, this event serves as a reminder that everyone should establish an emergency preparedness kit and emergency plan for themselves, their families, communities, and businesses.  Anyone can visit www.Ready.gov for more information about how to prepare for and stay informed about what to do in the event of an actual emergency.

For more information on this test visit: http://www.fema.gov/eastest/

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Become a Harrison Fellow!
NLU Fellowship up to $50,000 over four years!


National Louis University is offering Elizabeth Harrison Fellowships to qualified daytime students.

Harrison Fellows will begin in January 2012.

Are you a potential Harrison Fellow?
• We are looking for students who have leadership potential in teaching, business or human service.

NLU will invest in you, and we'll help you every step of the way.
• This fellowship will go a long way to helping you cover the costs of a college education.
• You'll attend classes during the day as a full-time student in the Day Time Program

at NLU's downtown Chicago campus on Michigan Avenue.
• As a Harrison Fellow, you'll be part of a select group of students who are already leaders in their communities—

and who have the potential to do so much more.
• As a teacher, you'll join others who have graduated from one of the most influential teacher education programsin the Chicago area.
• Your degree in business can help you become a successful entrepreneur—and a force in the economic development of your community.
• As a Human Service professional, you will be able to help people rise to their potential.
• Your bachelor's degree is just the beginning. You'll be on your way to becoming a lifelong learner and you'll be eligible to apply for NLU master's and doctoral programs.

The Offer
• Apply for the Harrison Fellowship with an award up to $50,000 over four years
• Full time attendance during the day in the downtown Chicago campus.
• Three majors offered:
 B.A. in Elementary Education for urban teachers (including type 03 certification and endorsement in math or science)
 B.A. in Business Administration
 B.A. Human Services
• Must have a recommendation letter from approved sponsor
• Have leadership potential
• Accepting qualified students with high school degree/GED
• Be on the top half of your class and/or have a GPA of 2.5 or higher
• Other scholarships may be available

More information:
Monica Ramos at 312-261-3064 or email Monica.ramos@nl.edu
Traci Dennard at 312- 261- 3845 or Traci.Dennard@nl.edu
Romelia Mercado at 312-261-3474 or Romelia.Mercado@nl.edu

Download application at www.NL.EDU/Harrisonfellows

http://www.passingthetorchtv.com/russell.htm

Tax Preparation

Certified Public Account
Call Sherwyn at 708-822-9700
irsrefunds@yahoo.com
Tell him Zelda sent you!






COMPUTOR PROBLEMS?

Need Computor Service?

(Sales, Repair or Application Training?) 

Call Kim at Accurs Computor Services.
(773) 436-3600
Tell Her Zelda sent you!







Need a Cheap Website?
You can have your own domain and 100 email addresses.

Example:

www.yourname.com

email addresses: yourname@yourbusiness.com


Click on www.ZeldaSpeaks.com

And click on HOME

Then click on

Click Here To Save Money Hosting/Building Your Website!



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Project Brotherhood

Saving the lives of men, one brother at a time.

www.projectbrotherhood.net/



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Ex-Offenders Project


EX-OFFENDERS Publishing Project©
Tell Your Story & GET PAID!

Could your incarceration have been a blessing in disguise?

It’s a story worth telling. Being paid for it is even better!

Join us for the journey of getting your story out of your head,

into print! Join our weekly sessions with


The Inner Author Self –Publishing Kit
Self Publish & Keep 100% Profit!

Facilitated by Intl. Speaker/Trainer/Author
Radio/TV Personality/Columnist Noir Woman News
Chicago Sun-Times (Weekend Edition)
Zelda Robinson, CLTV Traffic Reporter
FREE ADMITTANCE Weekly Sessions


FREE! Open to the public! Bring a Friend. Limited Seating!

RSVP: higherlearningnw@yahoo.com

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Healthy Families Chicago has EMERGENCY FOOD AND SHELTER available.

Rent Assistance, utilities and other amenities are available from

Call Mrs. JoAnn Williams 773-257-0111x127

These organizations have to send money back to the U.S. Government because families are not applying for the funds! Tell everyone you know!!!!!!!!!


Merriville Academy has a place for you to leave your children for up to 72 hours (3 Days) when there is a crisis in the family. Call the 24 hour hotline for EMERGENCY SITUATIONS!

Call the Merrivlile Crisis Nursery for details. 773-205-3637

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Life WITHOUT PAIN AND RX  IS POSSIBLE!~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You don't have to live in pain.

There is relief without medications!

Call the Wicker Park Chiropractic Health Center

2300 W. North Ave.

773-276-7300

Tell Dr. Jason Lee Smith that Zelda Robinson sent you!

You'll be glad you did!

www.wickerparkchiro.com



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Network Before You Need Work

Article written by Zelda Robinson

See Details at:

http://www.latinamericanchamberofcommerce.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=138&Itemid=1

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Xerox Technical Minority Scholarship Program


Xerox is giving away scholarships
in the amount of $1,000 - $10,000

Applicants must be academic high-achievers (3.0 or better GPA).
Applicants must be US citizens or visa-holding Permanent Residents
of African American, Asian, Pacific Island , Native American,
Native Alaskan, or Hispanic descent.

They must be enrolled as a full time undergraduate or graduate student
in any of the following technical fields: Chemistry, Information Management,
Computing & Software Systems, Material Science, Printing Management
Science, Laser Optics, Physics, Material Science, and Engineering
(Chemical, Computer, Electrical, Imaging, Manufacturing, Mechanical,
Optical, or Software).


For more details, visit:


www.blackstudents.com/opportunities/09-30-09.html


archives

Vernice Armour

as seen on Oprah!


The First African-American Woman Combat Pilot

Vernice Armour has family that still lives in the Chatham Community

Vernice Armour: The First African-American Woman Combat Pilot

Source: Black-Collegian.com

By Howard Mann

Vernice Armour follows a long line of military achievers. Her stepfather and one of her grandfathers were former Marines. Her father was in the Army. But she didn't receive a rousing round of applause when she opted to follow their trail.



"My stepdad didn't want me to go in the Marine Corps," said Armour, who years earlier spent some time in the Army. "He thought it would be too hard and he didn't like the way they treated women. He was in Vietnam for a couple of tours, but I told him it'd be different. I was going in as an officer – 30 years down the line – and going into aviation.

"The biggest thing was, ‘If I don't do it, who will?'"

Armour read about "it" in an article by Lt. Col. Charles Boyd, USMC, who issued a call for the first African-American female pilot. Boyd stated that the Marines were looking for "a special woman who possesses the attitude of a winner, the self-confidence of a dreamer, and the commitment of a pioneer."

Armour embraced the idea right away.

"It was a challenge," she said. "I didn't believe it at first. ‘I'll be first? No one has done this already?' For me, it was even more important. It's a legacy. We're standing on so many shoulders, and that was just a promising opportunity."


She earned her wings on July 13, 2001, ranking No. 1 out of her class of 12 and of the last 200 to graduate from flight school. The Marine Corps' first African-American female pilot, she also become the first in any branch to see combat, serving two tours in Iraq between 2003-2004.

"It was intense," she said. "It was exciting. It was scary. Fearful sometimes. There were real people trying to shoot at you."

Armour piloted the famed AH-1W Super Cobra attack helicopter. One of her most memorable experiences involved her sector being called in to support Marines and soldiers being held down on the ground by indirect mortar fire. Several months later, she was at a hospital talking to a young Marine who told her about a Cobra that helped them out when they were pinned down.

"We paired it up and discovered it was the same mission," she said. "He looked at me and said, ‘Ma'am, you saved my life.' Everybody over there is watching each other's back. I'm there to protect men and women on the ground. That's what it's all about for me.

"Everyone's flying and providing air support, protecting people on the ground who are under attack," she said. "All that political stuff we're talking about over here doesn't matter. We're just concerned about staying alive."

More than just staying alive, Armour has focused on living her life to the fullest. Prior to joining the Marines, the former Army reservist and ROTC member at Middle Tennessee State made history in Nashville . Armour was the first African-American woman and just the second woman overall on the Nashville Police Department's motorcycle squad.

While stationed outside San Diego at Camp Pendleton , after flight school, Armour exhibited her athletic prowess. She was named Camp Pendleton 's Female Athlete of the Year in 2001, and was a two-time titleholder in the camp's annual Strongest Warrior competition. She also played running back for a women's pro football team, the San Diego Sunfire.

Armour knew she was setting a precedent as a Marine. But she didn't realize the extent of her history-making experience until she got a surprise phone call from the Oprah Winfrey show while stationed in Iraq in 2003.

"When Oprah wanted me to be on the show, I thought it was just for being the first (black female pilot) in the Marine Corps," she said. "Turns out I was the first in American history out of all the branches of service.



"I was on the show via the phone, and my mom and dad were actually there," she said. "I was surprised, but not completely. Legislation (allowing women to fly in combat) had just been changed in 1993, and we hadn't had another war with combat since then."

Armour has moved on to fight a different sort of battle, helping women and minorities learn how to excel. She departed from the Marines in June 2007 to focus on instilling others with same goal-oriented passion that's driven her for so long, serving as a speaker, trainer and coach.


"I'm not a motivational speaker," she said. "I like to call myself your leadership coach for the 21st century leader, a catalyst for change. I want to share my message of ‘EXCELERATED' passion. You acknowledge your obstacles but stay focused on your goals. Acknowledge your obstacles but don't give them power.

"When you fall off that horse, fail that test, or don't make it, you get up and do it again right now,'" she said. "You have to harness that emotion – which is raw energy – and focus on your goal."

Armour said her experiences and "firsts" give her a unique platform, and she's been called to inspire others. She also wants to help corporations, businesses and organizations learn to appreciate diversity, learn to let individuals strengthen the team without leaving their identities at the door.

She said it's important to realize and recognize the "outrageous legacy" of forebears who made a way for her generation and today's youth. "That I'm able to represent for ancestors and give back just a little bit, is a blessing in itself."

Her company, VAI Communications for Change (www.vernicearmour.com) is located outside Washington , D.C. , near Quantico Marine Corps Base. Armour's Website features pictures of her on magazines, books and TV, a list of previous engagements, and a number of testimonials, including one from noted motivational speaker Les Brown.



"I've shared the stage with hundreds of great speakers over the past 20 years and they all better take notice because Vernice Armour is a force, a powerhouse and I highly recommend her to you," Brown says. "She will change your life."

Just like joining the Marine Corps changed her life.

MA Fine Art

www.ucreative.ac.uk/ma-fine-art


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Black "Tiger Mother"

Develops Child Prodigy

Is this a formula that can obliterate racial academic achievement gap?

It's Supergirl: 5-year-old, Queens, N.Y. prodigy can speak seven languages, play six instruments



BY Erica Pearson

DAILY NEWS STAFF WRITER

Sunday, May 15, 2011



Five-year-old Mabou Loiseau plays the piano in her home in Queens, New York (photo by Craig Warga/News)



Seven languages. Six musical instruments. Two types of dance and two sports. It all adds up to one busy little Queens girl.

Five-year-old Mabou Loiseau's parents spend $1,500 a week on tutors and lessons - and she spends seven hours a day in some type of instruction, with Sundays off.

She grew up speaking French, Creole and English, but her immigrant parents didn't want to stop there. She's also learning Spanish, Mandarin, Arabic and Russian.

"Russian is my most favorite. I just hear something, and if I don't understand I say, 'What does that mean?' and they'll tell me," said Mabou, whose Laurelton house is plastered with flashcards in different languages.

She can sing her ABCs in Spanish, count in Mandarin, read fairytales in Russian, and already has an ambitious list of career goals.

"I want to be a firefighter, and I want to be a doctor, and I want to be a dancer, and I want to be a princess," Mabou said with a smile, sitting shyly on her mom's lap. "And I want to be an actor, and I want to be a musician, and I want to be a singer, and I want to be a veterinarian, and I want to be a mom."

Mabou has her own dance studio with a mirrored wall where she learns tap and ballet. Her mom recently got rid of the kitchen table to make room for a full-size drum set. She's also learning to play the harp, clarinet, violin, guitar and piano. When she's not taking ice-skating or swimming lessons.

"All the sacrifices in the world for her," said her mom, Esther Loiseau, a piano teacher who taught French at an American school before leaving Haiti for Queens 15 years ago. "Furniture is not important. Education is."

Loiseau, 47, said friends and neighbors were initially shocked that she was starting Mabou on such a regimen so early - instead of just letting her be a kid.

"But I make sure I leave enough time for her to play," Loiseau said. "All she knows is learning. What becomes fun for someone is what they know."

Loiseau tells the tutors to play with Mabou, speaking in their native language, for half of the lesson. They spend the other half reading, writing and practicing vocabulary.

She said a sure way to make the opinionated only child behave is to threaten to cancel one of her lessons - especially Russian.

"It's a great experience for me, honestly. A lot of even adult people can't understand what she does," said Rogneda Elagina, 24, Mabou's Russian tutor. "We like to read together ... we started with the alphabet and connecting letters, and now she can read real folklore."

Mabou's dad works 16 hours a day as a parking attendant in Manhattan to pay for everything, and the Loiseaus have also started hosting other students for classes at their house.

The proud parents homeschool Mabou but found out last week that she scored in the 99th percentile on the city test for gifted and talented schools.

"Honestly, I just want to open doors for my daughter," said Loiseau. "She is really my princess."
Chinese "Tiger Mothers" Teach

Chinese Children to Dominate!


Tiger Mothers: Raising Children The Chinese Way

by Maureen Corrigan



January 11, 2011


Amy Chua may well be nuts. What kind of a mother hauls her then-7-year-old daughter's dollhouse out to the car and tells the kid that the dollhouse is going to be donated to the Salvation Army piece by piece if the daughter doesn't master a difficult piano composition by the next day? What kind of a mother informs her daughter that she's "garbage"? And what kind of mother believes, as Chua tells readers she does, that: "an A- is a bad grade; ... the only activities your children should be permitted to do are those in which they can eventually win a medal; and ... that medal must be gold"?




Amy Chua

What kind of a mother? Why, a mother who's raising her kids the Chinese, rather than the Western, way. In her new memoir, Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother, Chua recounts her adventures in Chinese parenting, and - nuts though she may be - she's also mesmerizing. Chua's voice is that of a jovial, erudite serial killer - think Hannibal Lecter - who's explaining how he's going to fillet his next victim, as though it's the most self-evidently normal behavior.



That's the other gripping aspect of Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother: There's method to Chua's madness - enough method to stir up self-doubt in readers who subscribe to more nurturing parenting styles. Trust me, Battle Hymn is going to be a book club and parenting blog phenomenon; there will be fevered debate over Chua's tough love strategies, which include ironclad bans on such Western indulgences as sleepovers, play dates, and any extracurricular activities except practicing musical instruments ... which must be the violin or piano.


The back story to Chua's memoir is this: She is the daughter of Chinese immigrants and is now a professor at Yale Law School and the author of two best-selling "big-think" books on free-market democracy and the fall of empires. When Chua married her husband, fellow Yale law professor and novelist Jed Rubenfeld, they agreed that their children would be raised Jewish and reared "the Chinese way," in which punishingly hard work - enforced by parents - yields excellence; excellence, in turn, yields satisfaction in what Chua calls a "virtuous circle."


The success of this strategy is hard to dispute. Older daughter Sophia is a piano prodigy who played Carnegie Hall when she was 14 or so. The second, more rebellious daughter, Lulu, is a gifted violinist. Chua rode the girls hard, making sure they practiced at least three hours a day even on vacations, when she would call ahead to arrange access to pianos for Sophia in hotel lobby bars and basement storage rooms. Chua also rarely refrained from criticizing her daughters, and in one of the many provocative passages that fill her book, she explains: Chinese parents can do things that would seem unimaginable - even legally actionable - to Westerners.

Chinese mothers can say to their daughters, "Hey fatty - lose some weight." By contrast, Western parents have to tiptoe around the issue, talking in terms of "health" and never ever mentioning the f-word, and their kids still end up in therapy for eating disorders and negative self-image. ... Western parents are concerned about their children's psyches. Chinese parents aren't. They assume strength, not fragility, and as a result they behave very differently.


As Chua admits, though, the Chinese model doesn't dwell on happiness, nor does it deal well

with failure. (Some of the most hilarious parts of her memoir deal with her attempts to apply Chinese parenting methods to the family's two dopey Samoyed puppies.)


I was on my living room couch, reading the end of Chua's memoir, when my 12-year-old

daughter came downstairs and announced that she had "done enough reading" for one day and that since she had also practiced flute (for 15 minutes) she was going to kick back and watch TV - in this case, a made-for-TV Disney movie. Chua tartly sums up the stereotypically "Western" Disney plot this way:


"In Disney movies," she says, the [studious kid] always has to have a breakdown and realize that life is not all about following rules and winning prizes, and then take off her clothes and run into the ocean or something like that. But that's just Disney's way of appealing to all the people who never win any prizes. Winning prizes gives you opportunities, and that's freedom - not running into the ocean."


I looked over at my daughter and had mixed feelings about her just chillin' in front of the TV, rather than plugging away in that virtuous circle of enforced practice. I guess we won't be sending out the invitations for Carnegie Hall anytime soon.



Click Here to listen to this story.

"Every child is a genius. Once you identify the talent of a child and put them in the environment that will nurture that talent, then the sky is the limit."

Chris Imafidon, father of twin geniuses


Modern Ghana News


Britain's Brainiest Family is Black and Has 9-Year-Old High School-Bound Twins



By Ruth Manuel-Logan

Paula and Peter Imafidon are just like any other 9-year-olds. They love laughing, playing on the computer and fighting with each other. What sets these twins apart from their peers, though, is that they are, hands down, prodigies who are about to enter high school and make British history as the youngest to do so.

The precocious London-based tykes, known as the "Wonder Twins," floored academics a year ago when they aced University of Cambridge's advanced mathematics exam. They are the youngest students to ever pass the test.

The future little scholars' father, Chris , and mother, Ann, immigrated to Britain from Nigeria more than 30 years ago and have actually been down this prodigy route before with their three older children, who are also overachievers.

The couple's oldest daughter, Anne-Marie , is now 20, but at age 13, she won a British government scholarship to take undergraduate courses at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. Christiana , 17, their other daughter, is the youngest student ever to study at the undergraduate level in any British University at the age of 11. Youngest daughter, Samantha , now 12, passed two rigorous high school level mathematics and statistics exams at the age of 6. She mentored the twins to pass their own math secondary school test when they were also 6.

Even with all of this, the proud dad denies that there is any particular genius in his family. He does credit his children's success to the Excellence in Education program for disadvantaged inner-city youth. "Every child is a genius," he said. "Once you identify the talent of a child and put them in the environment that will nurture that talent, then the sky is the limit. Look at Tiger Woods or the Williams sisters -- they were nurtured. You can never rule anything out with them. The competition between the two of them makes them excel in anything they do."

The darling duo are competitive to say the least, and this is what fuels them to out-achieve each other. Paula said, "I am excited to pass, but I should have got higher than Peter."

As far as career paths Paula says she wants to be a math teacher, while Peter aspires to be prime minister one day.

All it takes is a dream....



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$$ TIPS ON PUMPING GAS $$

(Will save you gasoline and money)
From an N'Spirational Conversations reader: Enjoy!

I don't know what you guys are paying for gasoline.... but here in
California we are paying up to $3.75 to $4.10 per gallon.

My line of work is in petroleum for about 31 years now, so here are some tricks to get more of your money's worth for every gallon:

Here at the Kinder Morgan Pipeline where I work in San Jose ,

CA we deliver about 4 million gallons in a 24-hour period thru the pipeline.. One day is diesel the next day is jet fuel, and gasoline, regular and premium grades.

We have 34-storage tanks here with a total capacity of 16,800,000 gallons.

Only buy or fill up your car or truck in the early morning when the ground temperature is still cold. Remember that all service stations have their storage tanks buried below ground. The colder the ground the more dense the gasoline, when it gets warmer gasoline expands, so buying in the afternoon or in the evening....your gallon is not exactly a gallon. In the petroleum business, the specific gravity and the temperature of the gasoline, diesel and jet fuel, ethanol and other petroleum products plays an important role.

A 1-degree rise in temperature is a big deal for this business. But the
service stations do not have temperature compensation at the pumps.

When you're filling up do not squeeze the trigger of the nozzle to a fast
mode If you look you will see that the trigger has three (3) stages: low,
middle, and high. You should be pumping on low mode, thereby minimizing the vapors that are created while you are pumping. All hoses at the pump have a vapor return. If you are pumping on the fast rate, some of the liquid that goes to your tank becomes vapor. Those vapors are being sucked up and back into the underground storage tank so you're getting less worth for your
money.

One of the most important tips is to fill up when your gas tank is HALF
FULL. The reason for this is the more gas you have in your tank the less air occupying its empty space. Gasoline evaporates faster than you can imagine.


Gasoline storage tanks have an internal floating roof. This roof serves as
zero clearance between the gas and the atmosphere, so it minimizes the
evaporation. Unlike service stations, here where I work, every truck that we load is temperature compensated so that every gallon is actually the exact
amount.

Another reminder, if there is a gasoline truck pumping into the storage
tanks when you stop to buy gas, DO NOT fill up; most likely the gasoline is being stirred up as the gas is being delivered, and you might pick up some of the dirt that normally settles on the bottom.

To have an impact, we need to reach literally millions of gas buyers. It's
really simple to do.

I'm sending this note to about thirty people. If each of you send it to at
least ten more (30 x 10 = 300)...and those 300 send it to at least ten more
(300 x 10 = 3,000) and so on, by the time the message reaches the sixth
generation of people, we will have reached over THREE MILLION consumers


!!!!!!! If those three million get excited and pass this on to ten friends
each, then 30 million people will have been contacted!

If It goes one level further, you guessed it..... THREE HUNDRED MILLION PEOPLE!!!

Again, all you have to do is share this with10 people.
Remember, what goes around good, comes back good to you!
Copy and paste this link and share! Fill'er up!

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Electronic Pick Pocketing

There is nothing worse than losing everything you've worked
hard for to some electronic theives!

The season of giving and TAKING is here!
Electronic Pick Pocketing is the new technology that will leave you and
your credit card with a balance you cannot afford to pay!

Be sure and check out this video and share it with everyone you know!
Happy Holidays!

www.wreg.com/news/wreg-electronic-pickpocketing-story,0,5636726,full.story
or

http://www.wreg.com/news/wreg-electronic-pickpocketing-story,0,5636726,full.story

(Copy and paste in new window if it doesn't work when you click on it!)

archives

James Moody R. I. P.

For all you jazz fans, famed jazz musician, composer and band leader James Moody died Thursday of pancreatic cancer at the San Diego Hospice, his wife said. He was 85 years young.

Below are several versions of "Moody's Mood" in which he was famous for!


www.latimes.com/news/obituaries/la-me-james-moody-20101210,0,5483254.story
- L. A. Times Obituary

www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_Vj_CJJjvI&feature=related
- "Moody's Mood" - James Moody

www.youtube.com/watch?v=6zMvmCAjDMw
- "Moody's Mood (For Love)" - King Pleasure - Original Recording from 1952 on a 78rpm record

www.youtube.com/watch?v=raZzy7IdO9Y
- "Moody's Mood (For Love)" - George Benson - From the Warner Bros. Album "Give Me The Night".



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SCHOLARSHIPS

1) Ron Brown Scholarships
http://www.ronbrown.org/

2) FastWEB Scholarship Search
http://www.fastweb.com/

3) United Negro College Fund Scholarships
http://www.uncf.org/scholarships/uncfscholarship.asp

4) Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarships
http://www.jackierobinson.org/

5) Intel Science Talent Search
http://www.sciserv.org/sts

6) Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund
http://www.thurgoodmarshallfund.org/

7) FinAid: The Smart Students Guide to
Financial Aid (scholarships)
http://www.finaid.org/scholarships/

8) United Negro College Fund
http://www.uncf.org/

9) Gates Millennium Scholarships (Annual)
http://www.gmsp.org/(hmrfvje1fdxdi0nwbrpmbd45)/default.aspx

10) McDonald's Scholarships (Annual)
http://www.mcdonaldsnymetro.com/

11. Urban League Scholarships
http://www.nyul.org/nyul_scholarships.html
12. Scholarships by Category
http://www.financialaidfinder.com/student-scholarship-search/

13) National Merit Scholarships
http://www.nationalmerit.org/

14) College Board Scholarship Search
http://appscollegeboard.com/cbsearch_ss/welcome.jsp

15) Black Excel Scholarship Gateways
http://www.blackexcel.org/

16) FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/

17) LULAC - National Scholastic Achievement Awards
http://mach25.collegenet.com/cgi-bin/M25/GetScholar?page=10177

18) Scholarship & Financial Aid Help
http://www.blackexcel.org/fin-sch.htm

19) NAACP Scholarships
http://www.naacp.org/youth/scholarships/?gclid=CIL2puLV2J8CFRghnAodPkGMHw

20) First Generation Student Scholarships
http://telacu.com/site/en/home/education/applications.html
21) ScienceNet Scholarship Listing
http://www.sciencenet.emory.edu/undergrad/scholarships.html

22) Asian American Scholarships
http://www.collegescholarships.org/scholarships/asian.htm
23) Siemens Foundation Competition
http://www.siemens-foundationorg/

24) College Board Scholarship Search
http://cbweb10p.collegeboard.org/fundfinder/html/fundfind01.html

25) International Students Scholarships & Aid Help
http://www.iefa.org/

26) Minorities & Disabilities Scholarships
http://www.proyectovision.net/english/opportunities/scholarships.html
27) Guaranteed Scholarships
http://www.guaranteed-scholarships.com/

28) Hope Scholarships and Lifetime Learning Credits
http://www.ed.gov/offices/OPE/PPI/HOPE/index.html

29) Presidential Freedom Scholarships
http://www.nationalservice.org/scholarships

30) Disabled War Veterans Scholarships
http://www.afcea.org/education/scholarships/undergraduate/DisabledVeteranScholarship.asp

31) Sachs Foundation Scholarships
http://www.sachsfoundation.org/
32) Student Inventors Scholarships
http://www.invent.org/collegiate/

33) A Better Chance Scholarships
http://www.abetterchance.org/abetterchance.aspx?pgID=1078

34) African American Scholarships (various areas)
http://oedb.org/scholarship/african-american
35) Scholarships Pathways
http://scholarshipssite.blogspot.com/

36) Private Scholarships For Seniors
http://www.phs.d211.org/stsvc/college/scholarships.asp

37) ScienceNet Scholarship Listing
http://www.sciencenet.emory.edu/undergrad/scholarships.html

38) Scholarship, Loan, Tuition Help
http://www.findtuition.com/
39) Princeton Review Scholarships & Aid
http://www.princetonreview.com/college/finance

40) Coca-Cola Scholarships
https://www.coca-colascholars.org/cokeWeb/

41) Scholarship of the Month
www.collegescholarships.com/scholarships.html

42) Alphabetical List of Scholarships by Field of Study
http://www.collegescholarships.org/scholarships/subject-specific.htm

43) National Federation of The Blind Scholarships
http://www.nfb.org/nfb/default.asp?SnID=807950602
44) Ayn Rand Institute
http://www.aynrand.org/contests

45) Federation of Musicians Scholarships
http://www.afm.org/young-musicians/scholarships

46) Scholarships for Students with Disabilities
http://www.disabled-world.com/disability/education/scholarships/
47) Nursing Scholarships
http://www.blackexcel.org/nursing-scholarships.html

48) College-Bound High School Seniors - Scholarships

http://scholarships.fatomei.com/scholar13.html

49) AFROTC High School Scholarships
http://www.afrotc.com/

50) Minority Scholarships
http://www.free-4u.com/minority.htm

51) Scholarships for Minority Accounting Students
http://wwwaicpa.org/members/div/career/mini/smas.htm

52) The Elks National Foundation Scholarships
http://www.elks.org/enf/scholars/ourscholarships.cfm

53) MacDonald Scholarships
http://www.mcdonalds.com/usa/good/people/scholarship.html

54) Multicultural Scholarships and Opportunities
http://www.multiculturaladvantage.com/scholarship.asp
55) African American Scholarships
http://www.littleafricacom/scholarship/

56) Marine Corps Scholarships
http://www.marine-scholars.org/

57) Minority Student Scholarships (55 Listed)

http://www.guidetoonlineschools.com/financial-aid/scholarships/minorities

58) Alpha Kappa Alpha Scholarships
http://www.akaeaf.org/programsandinitiatives/

59) Dream Deferred Essay Contest
http://www.hamsaweb.org/essay/

60) STATE FARM INSURANCE Hispanic Scholarships
http://www.statefarm.com/foundati/hispanic.htm

61) National Scholarships at All Levels
http://scholarships.fatomei.com/

62) Burger King Scholars
http://www.swwhs.org/index.php/scholarships/230-burger-king-scholars

63) Major Scholarships and Fellowships
http://www.uaa.alaska.edu/ours/scholarships/index.cfm

64) Nursing Scholarships Opportunities
http://www.aacn.nche.edu/Education/financialaid.htm

65) Lagrant Scholarships: Minorities, Public Relations & Other
http://www.lagrantfoundation.org/site/?page_id=3

66) Students With Autism Scholarships
http://www.autism-society.org/site/PageServer?pagename=asa_awards

67) Scholarships for Students Working for Peace and Justice
http://www.davisputter.org/

68) Students With Epilepsy Scholarships
http://www.ucbepilepsyscholarship.com/


69) Gateway to 10 Free Scholarship Searches
http://www.college-scholarships.com/free_scholarship_searches.htm

70) Scholarships for Study Abroad
http://www.iie.org//Content/NavigationMenu/Programs7/Gilman_Awards/Home8/Home.htm

71) Urban League Scholarships with Gillette
http://www.aie.org/Scholarships/detail.cfm?ID=12377

72) Will To Win Scholarships
http://www.schering-ploughwilltowin.com/

73) The Big Sun Scholarships (Students on Sports Teams)
http://www.bigsunathletics.com/

74) Scholarships for Women
http://www.collegedegrees.com/financial-aid/scholarships/specialty/scholarships-for-women/
75) American Chemical Society Scholarships
http://www.cnetweb.org/american_chemical_society_scholarships.htm

76) Sallie Mae Grants and Scholarships
http://www.salliemae.com/parent_answer/decide/explore_alternatives/grants.html

77) Scholarships List and Search
http://www.adventuresineducation.org/sbase/

78) Scholarships for Single Mothers
http://www.collegedegrees.com/financial-aid/scholarships/specialty/scholarships-for-single-mothers/
79) Hispanic Scholarship Fund
http://www.hsf.net/

80) African American College Grants
http://www.collegescholarships.org/grants/african-american.htm

81) African American Scholarships (various areas)
http://oedb.org/scholarship/african-american

82) College Net Scholarship Search
http://mach25.collegenet.com/cgi-bin/M25/index
83) Scholarships For Hispanics
http://www.scholarshipsforhispanics.org/

84) Scholarships for Single Mothers
http://www.collegedegrees.com/financial-aid/scholarships/specialty/scholarships-for-single-mothers/

85) Girls Going Places Entrepreneurship Scholarship
http://www.guardianlife.com/womens_channel/girls_going_places/girls_going_places.html
86) Astronaut Scholarship Foundation
http://www.astronautscholarship.org/

87) ELA Foundation Scholarships (disabled)
http://www.elaorg/scholarships/scholarships.html

88) Jeanette Rankin Grant/Scholarship For Low-Income Women (over 35)
http://www.rankinfoundation.org/

89) Minority Undergraduate Fellows Program
http://www.naspa.org/resources/mufp/

90) Shell Oil Scholarships
http://www.shell.us/home/content/usa/aboutshell/careers/students_and_graduates/development/scholarships/scholarships.html

91) College Connection Scholarships
http://www.collegescholarships.com/

92) Super College Scholarships
http://www.supercollege.com/

93) African American College Grants
http://www.collegescholarships.org/grants/african-american.htm

(94) Best Buy Scholarships (over 1,000)
http://www.bestbuyinc.com/community_relations/scholarship.htm

(95) Student Loan Consolidation (read Info)
http://www.studentloanconsolidator.com/

(96) Hispanic Heritage Youth Awards
http://www.hispanicheritage.org/youth_int.php?sec=193

(97) Master List of Scholarships
http://www.consumerfraudreporting.org/ScholarshipGrantList.php

(98) Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)-Key to everything
http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/

99) AES Engineering Scholarships (Essay)
http://www.aesengineers.com/scholarships.htm

100) The Roothbert Fund Scholarships
http://www.roothbertfund.org/scholarships.php

101) Gateway to 10 Free Scholarship Searches
http://www.college-scholarships.com/free_scholarship_searches.htm

102) Federal Scholarships and Aid
http://www.fedmoney.org/

103) International Students Help and Scholarships
http://www.iefa.org/

104) Elks National Foundation Scholarships (Over 500

http://www.elks.org/enf/scholars/mvs.Cfm

105) Black Excel Scholarship Gateway
http://www.blackexcel.org/link4.htm
106) Peterson's Aid and Scholarships Help
http://www.petersons.com/finaid/

107) Sammy Scholarships--Body by Milk
http://www.bodybymilk.com/sammy_scholarship.php
108) Coveted National Scholarships
http://scholarships.fatomei.com/

109) Scholarships for Military Children
http://www.militaryscholar.org/
110) Martin Luther King Scholarships
http://www.sanantonio.gov/mlk/?res=1024&ver=true

111) New York Women in Communications Foundation (Other States)
http://www.nywici.org/foundation/scholarships

112) Art and Writing Awards
http://www.artandwriting.org/

113) Edison International Scholars Program
http://sms.scholarshipamerica.org/edison/index.html

114) Law Enforcement Scholarships (Every Three Months)
http://www.straightforwardmedia.com/law-enforcement/

115) Chicana/Latina Foundation
http://www.chicanalatina.org/scholarship.html

116) Civil Rights Defense Fund
http://www.nradefensefund.org/writingcontest.aspx
117) Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute
http://www.chci.org/

118) Online Associate Degree Scholarship
http://degreedirectory.org/pages/Online_Associates_Degree_Scholarship.html

119) Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarships
http://www.google.com/anitaborg/first-years/

120) Asian American Journalist Association
http://www.aaja.org/
121) American Assoc. of University Women
http://www.aauw.org/fga/fellowships_grants/index.cfm

122) Scholarships by State
http://www.schoolsintheusa.com/scholarships.cfm

123) African American Scholarships (various areas)
http://oedb.org/scholarship/african-american
124) Engineering School Scholarships
http://www.engineeringedu.com/scholars.html

125) Scholarship News
http://www.free-4u.com/

126) Recession Relief Scholarships
http://www.straightforwardmedia.com/debt/debt-scholarship.htm
127) Orphan Foundation of America
http://www.orphan.org/

128) September 11th Scholarship Funds
http://www.nasfaa.org/publications/2001/ARScholarshipFundsDetailed110701.html

129) Past Presidents' Legacy Scholarships
http://www.hydro.org/Scholarship.php

130) American Fire Sprinkler Scholarship Contest
http://www.afsascholarship.org/

131) Mensa Scholarship Essay Scholarship
http://merf.us.mensa.org/scholarships/zipfinder.php

132) Miss America Scholarships
http://www.missamerica.org/scholarships/scholarship-directory.aspx

133) Davidson Fellow Scholarships
http://www.davidsongifted.org/Fellows/
134) Federal Student Aid Portal
http://studentaid.ed.gov/PORTALSWebApp/students/english/index.jsp

135) Josh Gibson Foundation Scholarship (Baseball Essay)
www.JoshGibson.org

136) The National Society of High School Scholars
http://www.nshss.org/scholarships/

137) Alger Association Scholarships (Horatio)
http://www.horatioalgerorg/scholarships
138) Collegiate Inventors Competition
http://www.invent.org/collegiate/

139) Alphabetical Index to Scholarships and Aid
http://www.window.state.tx.us/scholars/aid/faidalpha.html

140) Scholarship of the Month
http://www.collegescholarships.com/scholarships.html

141) Alphabetical List of Scholarships by Field of Study
http://www.collegescholarships.org/scholarships/subject-specific.htm

142) National Federation of The Blind Scholarships
http://www.nfb.org/nfb/default.asp?SnID=807950602

143) Union Plus Scholarship Database
http://www.aflcio.org/familyfunresources/collegecosts/scholar.cfm

144) Scholarships for Single Mothers
http://www.collegedegrees.com/financial-aid/scholarships/specialty/scholarships-for-single-mothers/

145) Federation of Musicians Scholarships
http://www.afm.org/young-musicians/scholarships

146) Scholarships for Students with Disabilities
http://www.disabled-world.com/disability/education/scholarships/

147) Coca-Cola Scholarships
https://www.coca-colascholars.org/cokeWeb/
148) Scholarships on the Net (1500 Links)
http://whatsonthe.net/scholarmks.htm

149) Minority Nurse Gateway of Scholarships
http://www.minoritynurse.com/scholarships

150) NAACP Scholarships
http://www.naacp.org/youth/scholarships/?gclid=CIL2puLV2J8CFRghnAodPkGMHw

151) Burger King Scholars
http://www.swwhs.org/index.php/scholarships/230-burger-king-scholars

152) Bowling Scholarships
http://www.bowlingmembership.com/PDF/smart_colleges.pdf
153) Red Cross Presidential Intern Program
http://www.redcross.org/images/pdfs/PIP_Fact_Sheet.pdf


154) Scholarships by Category
http://www.financialaidfinder.com/student-scholarship-search/

155) Scholarships for Women
http://www.collegedegrees.com/financial-aid/scholarships/specialty/scholarships-for-women/

156) Major Scholarships and Fellowships
http://www.uaa.alaska.edu/ours/scholarships/index.cfm

157) Scholarships in Criminal Justice & Related Fields
http://criminaljusticeonlineblog.com/archives/10-scholarships-and-awards-for-criminal-justice- majors/

158) African American College Grants
http://www.collegescholarships.org/grants/african-american.htm

159) Multicultural Scholarships and Opportunities
http://www.multiculturaladvantage.com/scholarship.asp

160) Newspapers of America Fellowships
http://www.naa.org/Resources/Articles/Diversity-NAAMinorityFellowships/Diversity- NAAMinorityFellowships.aspx

161) KFC Colonel's Scholars Program
http://www.kfcscholars.org

162) Nursing Scholarships Opportunities
http://www.aacn.nche.edu/Education/financialaid.htm

163) Minorities & Disabilities Scholarships
http://www.proyectovision.net/english/opportunities/scholarships.html

164) Lagrant Scholarships: Minorities, Public Relations & Other
http://www.lagrantfoundation.org/site/?page_id=3

165) First Generation Student Scholarships
http://telacu.com/site/en/home/education/applications.html

165) Students With Autism Scholarships
http://www.autism-society.org/site/PageServer?pagename=asa_awards

166) Disabled War Veterans Scholarships
http://www.afcea.org/education/scholarships/undergraduate/DisabledVeteranScholarship.asp

167) National Society of Arts and Letters Scholarships
http://www.arts-nsal.org/scholarships.html

168) Scholarships for Students with Epilepsy
http://www.ucbepilepsyscholarship.com/
169) Asian American Scholarships
http://www.collegescholarships.org/scholarships/asian.htm

170) Urban League Scholarships with Gillette
http://www.aie.org/Scholarships/detail.cfm?ID=12377

171) Urban League Scholarships
http://www.nyul.org/nyul_scholarships.html

172) Sachs Foundation Scholarships
http://www.sachsfoundation.org/

173) Holocaust Remembrance Project Essay Contest
http://holocaust.hklaw.com/

174) APS Minority Scholarship (Physics)
http://www.aps.org/programs/minorities/honors/scholarship/

175) Courageous Persuaders Scholarships
http://www.courageouspersuaders.com/

176) Annual Signet Classics Student Scholarship Essay Contest
http://us.penguingroup.com/static/pages/services-academic/essayhome.html

177) Students With Disabled Parents Scholarships
http://www.lookingglass.org/scholarships/index.php

178) Microsoft University Careers Scholarships
http://careers.microsoft.com/careers/en/us/collegescholarship.aspx

179) The "Negro Spiritual" Scholarship Foundation
http://www.negrospiritual.org/

180) Siemens Westinghouse Competition (Now College Board)
http://www.collegeboard.com/siemens/eligibility.html

181) Native American Scholarships
http://www.indianeducation.spps.org/Scholarship_Information.html

182 Alzheimer's Awareness
College Scholarship
http://www.afateens.org/about_new.html
183) USA Access Education Scholarships
http://www.usafunds.org/planning/access_to_education_scholarship/index.html

184) Scholarships for Military Children
http://www.militaryscholar.org/pdf/SFMC2010application.pdf

185) American Nuclear Society Scholarships
http://www.ans.org/honors/scholarships/

186) Questbridge College Prep Scholarships
http://www.questbridge.org/cps/info.php

187) National Association of Negro Musicians Scholarships (contact branches)
http://www.nanm.org/Scholarship_competition.htm

188) The National Society of High School Scholars
http://www.nshss.org/scholarships/

189) William A Lee Memorial Scholarships (Chicago)
http://www.chicagolabor.org/images/stories/documents/academic%20application%202010.pdf

190) The National Society of High School Scholars
http://www.nshss.org/scholarships/

191) Japanese American Citizens League Scholarships
http://www.jacl.org/edu/documents/2010ProgramGuidelines_toChapters_.pdf

192) Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarships
http://www.rotary.org/en/StudentsAndYouth/EducationalPrograms/AmbassadorialScholarships/Pages/ridefault.aspx

193) National Federation of The Blind Scholarships
http://www.nfb.org/nfb/default.asp?SnID=807950602

194) Family Dollars Scholarships
https://www.scholarshipamerica.org/familydollar/

195) African American Scholarships (various areas)
http://oedb.org/scholarship/african-american

196) Kohl's Kids Who Care Scholarships
http://www.kohlscorporation.com/CommunityRelations/scholarship/index.asp

197) SEIU Lottery Scholarship Program
http://www.seiu.org/a/members/seiu-scholarship-program-offers-48-scholarships-yearly.php

198) Scholarships for Study Abroad
http://www.iie.org//Content/NavigationMenu/Programs7/Gilman_Awards/Home8/Home.htm

199) Scholarships from Kitchen & Bath Association
http://thedecoratingdiva.com/20000-in-scholarship-awards-for-2010-nkbage-charette-competition/

200) Americanism Essay Contest
http://www.fra.org/Content/fra/AboutFRA/EssayContest/default.cfm



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Scholarships for Black Males


If you know of anyone African-American males that are 18-28 years old, interested in the Nursing field, University of the District of Columbia (UDC) is offering FREE tuition, FREE books, a $250 monthly stipend, and guaranteed job placement as a nurse at Providence Hospital upon graduation (it's a 3 year program) with a starting salary of $40,000. The program is recruiting new students now!!


The program is recruiting new students now!! Please contact
Ms. Beshon Smith (202) 266-5481 or Email Bsmith@urbanallianc e.org




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Harvard University Tuition Free for Low-Income Students
Harvard University announced over the weekend that from now on undergraduate students from low-income families will pay no tuition. In making the announcement, Harvard’s president Lawrence H. Summers said, ‘When only 10 percent of the students in Elite higher educationcome from families in lower half of the income distribution, we are not doing enough. We are not doing enough in bringing elite higher education to the lower half of the income distribution.’


If you know of a family earning less than $ 60,000 a year with an honor studentgraduating from high school soon, Harvard Universitywants to pay the tuition. The prestigious university recently announced that from now on undergraduate students from low-income families can go to Harvard for free…no tuition and no student loans!




To find out more about Harvard offering free tuition for families making less than $ 60,000 a year visit Harvard’s financial aid websiteat: http://www.fao.fas.harvard.edu/or call the school’s financial aid officeat(617) 495-1581.




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Traveling doesn't have to break the bank (in fact, you can travel for free), and there are plenty of places that'll help you find the best vacation for your budget. Get discounts and the insider scoop with these great resources.

www.wisebread.com/travel-resources


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Roberto Clemente Career Academy

Expungement Seminar

for YOUTH and Adults

1147 N. Western Ave

8am - 6pm

For Additional Information,

Call (312) 603-5200 or (312) 603-0467


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From time to time, different readers send us information that is crucial to our well being. Today I am sharing this info with you

in hopes that you will share it with your family and friends. Stay warm, stay safe!


During this week's extreme winter weather conditions, AAA suggests the following tips for your safety:

Before driving:
• Stock your car with emergency supplies, including a cell phone, gloves, boots,
blankets, flashlight and reflective triangle.
• Remove snow entirely from your car body and windows.
• Keep your fuel tank at least half full.

While driving:
• Regulate your speed for road conditions.
• Drive with your low-beam headlights illuminated.
• Do not use cruise control on wet or snowy roads.
• Watch for ice on overpasses and at intersections.
• Look ahead in traffic for problems that may require more reaction time.
• If you are in an emergency situation, call 911 immediately.

If you become stranded and need roadside assistance:
• Call the 24-hour road service number on your AAA Membership Card. Priority service
will be given to members who are stranded or in a dangerous situation.
• Stay with your vehicle. If you can start your engine, run it only long enough to keep
warm. Be sure the exhaust pipe is free of snow.

Monitor weather conditions and follow the advice of local authorities.


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Please contact Ms. Beshon Smith (202) 266-5481 or

Email Bsmith@urbanallianc e.org
2) This is for African American Males...Free college education for 4 years. Pass it on!!

FOUR (4) YEARS FREE -

High School Senior African American Males


Do you know any African American Males (who are Seniors in high school)
who want to go to college for FREE.. The black colleges are looking for future
Black Male Teachers and will send them to Universities/

Colleges FOUR (4) YEARS FREE;

THIS IS FOR MALES ONLY.

1. Have parents fill out this application.
2. Read the Mission Statement.

There are Ten (10) different Soutt Carolina Colleges or Universities including:

Benedict College
http://www.callmemi ster.clemson. edu/schools/ benedict. htm>

Claflin University
http://www.. .callmemister. clemson.. edu/schools/ claflin.htm>

Clemson University
http://www.callmemi ster.clemson. edu/schools/

Morris College
http://www.callmemi ster.clemson. edu/schools/ morris.htm

South Carolina State University
http://www.callmemi ster.clemson. edu/schools/ southcarolinasta te.htm

Greenville Technical College
http://www.callmemi ster.clemson. edu/schools/ greenvilletech. htm>

Midlands Technical College
http://www.callmemi ster.clemson. edu/schools/ midlands. htm

Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College
http://www.callmemi ster.clemson. edu/schools/ orangeburgcalhou ntech.htm

Tri-County Technical College
http://www.callmemi ster.clemson. edu/schools/ tricountytech. htm

Trident Technical College
http://www.callmemi ster.clemson. .edu/schools/ tridenttech. htm

3. Send this to your family and friends also.

The web link is below:
http://www.callmemi ster.clemson. edu/index. htm

MOREHOUSE SUMMER PROGRAM - 10th & 11th Grade
MOREHOUSE SUMMER PROGRAM Attached is a summer program activity at Morehouse for children going to the 10th and 11th grade.
You may know someone . . . Please pass this opportunity on for our young men. . . .
Morehouse Summer Program @ Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA will be offering a Summer Institute (Project Identity) for African-American males entering the 10th and 11th grades. Three weeks at Morehouse - June 7 - 28 Creative Writing - SAT Prep - Debate - --
Cheri D Coleman,
Development Coordinator United Indians of All Tribes Foundation 3801 W. Government Way/Discovery Park Seattle, WA 98199

Colleges FOUR (4) YEARS FREE;

THIS IS FOR MALES ONLY.

1. Have parents fill out this application.
2. Read the Mission Statement.

There are Ten (10) different Soutt Carolina Colleges or Universities including:

Benedict College
http://www.callmemi ster.clemson. edu/schools/ benedict. htm>

Claflin University
http://www.. .callmemister. clemson.. edu/schools/ claflin.htm>

Clemson University
http://www.callmemi ster.clemson. edu/schools/

Morris College
http://www.callmemi ster.clemson. edu/schools/ morris.htm

South Carolina State University
http://www.callmemi ster.clemson. edu/schools/ southcarolinasta te.htm

Greenville Technical College
http://www.callmemi ster.clemson. edu/schools/ greenvilletech. htm>

Midlands Technical College
http://www.callmemi ster.clemson. edu/schools/ midlands. htm

Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College
http://www.callmemi ster.clemson. edu/schools/ orangeburgcalhou ntech.htm

Tri-County Technical College
http://www.callmemi ster.clemson. edu/schools/ tricountytech. htm

Trident Technical College
http://www.callmemi ster.clemson. .edu/schools/ tridenttech. htm

3. Send this to your family and friends also.

The web link is below:
http://www.callmemi ster.clemson. edu/index. htm

MOREHOUSE SUMMER PROGRAM - 10th & 11th Grade
MOREHOUSE SUMMER PROGRAM

Attached is a summer program activity at Morehouse for children going to the 10th and 11th grade.

You may know someone . . . Please pass this opportunity on for our young men. . . .

Morehouse Summer Program @ Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA will be offering a Summer Institute
(Project Identity) for African-American males entering the 10th and 11th grades.

Three weeks at Morehouse - June 7 - 28
Creative Writing -
SAT Prep -
Debate -
--
Cheri D Coleman,
Development Coordinator
United Indians of All Tribes Foundation
3801 W. Government Way/Discovery Park
Seattle, WA 98199



Xerox is giving away scholarships
in the amount of $1,000 - $10,000

Applicants must be academic high-achievers (3.0 or better GPA).
Applicants must be US citizens or visa-holding Permanent Residents
of African American, Asian, Pacific Island , Native American,
Native Alaskan, or Hispanic descent.

They must be enrolled as a full time undergraduate or graduate student
in any of the following technical fields: Chemistry, Information Management,
Computing & Software Systems, Material Science, Printing Management
Science, Laser Optics, Physics, Material Science, and Engineering
(Chemical, Computer, Electrical, Imaging, Manufacturing, Mechanical,
Optical, or Software).


For more details, visit:


www.blackstudents.com/opportunities/09-30-09.html







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EveryBlock — A news feed for your block
Choose a neighborhood or ZIP code and see what's happening nearby or track trends over time.


“One of the most ambitious hyperlocal sites.. ....

www.everyblock.com

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The Community Services Block Grant (CSGB) Scholarship program provides financial assistance for low-income students enrolled in post-secondary education programs. Students who are enrolled full-time in an Illinois college, university or vocational/certificate program by September 15, 2010, may qualify for a scholarship ranging from $500 to $3,000. Funds may be applied to tuition, books, uniforms and fees related to course study.

Please send completed applications (deadline July 12) to:


Chicago Department of Family and Support Services
2010 CSBG Scholarship Program
ATTN: Jenny Schuler
1615 W. Chicago Avenue - 3rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60622



Additional information about program criteria, income guidelines, and a downloadable application are available at the City of Chicago Department of Family and Support Services (FSS) website or call 312-746-7291 with any questions.


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Top 10 Ways Merchant Companies Rip You Off...And How To Stop Them...For Good!

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90# on your telephone

I dialed '0', to check this out, asked the operator, who confirmed that this was correct

so please pass it on . ... . (l also checked out Snopes.com.
This is true, and also applies to cell phones!)


PASS ON TO EVERYONE YOU KNOW

I received a telephone call last evening from an individual identifying
himself as an AT&T Service Technician (could also be Telus) who was
conducting a test on the telephone lines. He stated that to complete the
test I should touch nine(9), zero(0), the pound sign (#), and then hang up.
Luckily, I was suspicious and refused.

Upon contacting the telephone company, I was informed that by pushing 90#,you give the requesting individual full access to your telephone line,
which enables them to place long distance calls billed to your home phone
number.

I was further informed that this scam has been originating from many local
jails/prisons DO NOT press 90# for ANYONE.


The GTE Security Department requested that I share this information with
EVERYONE I KNOW.


After checking with Verizon they also said it was true, so do not dial 90# for anyone !!!!!

PLEASE share with everyone you know!

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MARK YOUR CALENDAR AUGUST 4TH

Also for all who are interested in really supporting this presidency and this president,
in honor of Barack Obama's birthday, Organizing For America and I are hosting
phone banks all over the country to recruit volunteers to get out the vote for the
mid-term elections that are coming up in less than 100 days.




Since his historic election, President Obama has been inundated with a barrage of venomous criticism. From the first cries calling for the failure of his administration by Vitter and Limbaugh to the media critique of his handling of the BP oil spill, his critics are unequivocal in telling us that he can do no right.

In the face of contrary evidence, “Birthers” rant that the President is not a US citizen and should be removed from office. Once closed by Senator Barry Goldwater, the “father” of modern conservatism, the Republican leadership has opened the doors of their party to the John Birch Society and other reactionary extremists. With cries of wanting to “take back OUR country” and “we want OUR America back,” the Tea Partiers clearly tell us that there is no room for his (The President’s) kind in their America – at least not in a position of leadership or Presidential Authority. Who remembers someone ever disrespectfully calling out “You Lie!” to either of the Bushes, Reagan, Ford or Nixon in the chambers of the US House of Representatives or someone openly carrying a loaded weapon to one of their political events?

For years our borders have been as porous as cheesecloth, but suddenly critics tell us the Administration is failing to live up to its responsibility to quell the flow of immigrants from our southern border. Without questioning the impact of our non-existent northern border on illegal immigration, reactionary responses from municipal to state governments tell us that if “Obama won’t do anything, we’ll stop these Mexicans from coming here.”

Living up to expectations, the actions of Fox News have denigrated from constant criticism of President Obama to their appeal, by the likes of Beck, to the basest elements in society to “revolt” against the oppressor Obama or to “spill the blood of tyrants to water the tree of Liberty .” Disappointingly, most mainstream media just turned its attention and focus to President Obama’s critics, while excluding a balanced assessment of the political landscape.

That having been said, there are millions out here who support the reasoned and measured approach of the President. We understand from the evidence he presents daily that he has an extraordinary, almost encyclopedic understanding of issues impacting this nation and the world. We see him lauded by his peers around the world as a “thinker” or as a no-nonsense leader who understands, and can articulate, the positions of friends and adversaries alike. While not addressing or achieving goals the way the media “puppeteers” would choose, HE GETS THE JOB DONE!!!

An overwhelming number of Americans elected President Obama and millions still support him, but too many of us do so silently. If the progressive agenda we elected the President to achieve is to be successful, we must help the President achieve it. We cannot allow the media to report from negative positions without challenge. Just as others demonstrate their hatred and disrespect of President Obama, we must actively demonstrate our support.

We call on ALL who support President Obama to take action. On August 4th, the President’s birthday, we ask those who support him to wear any campaign item from the Presidential election as a demonstration of our ongoing support. Bring out your old campaign paraphernalia.

If you don’t have caps, buttons or tee shirts, wear a red, white, and blue tri-color ribbon or clothing on August 4th. If nothing else, this simple demonstration of support for our President will provide a counteraction to the negativity that spews forth daily. We can do this. YES WE CAN. YES WE WILL.

Please share with your email list.

In the unlikely story that is America , there's never been anything false about hope.

~Barack Obama

 
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Cell Phone Numbers Go Public this month.


All cell phone numbers are being released to telemarketing companies and you will start to receive sales calls.

..... YOU WILL BE CHARGED FOR THESE CALLS

To prevent this, call the following number from your cell phone:
888-382-1222





It is the National DO NOT CALL list It will only take a minute of your time..


It blocks your number for five (5) years. You must call from the cell phone number you want to have blocked. You cannot call from a different
phone number.

HELP OTHERS BY PASSING THIS ON ..


It takes about 20 seconds.

_https://www.donotcall.gov/default.aspx_

(https://www.donotcall.gov/default.aspx)

It takes about 20 seconds to do this!




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Congrats to my niece Alicia McDaniels!

It's really wonderful to see young ladies grow up and become in tune with their natural gifts, talents and abilities! I remember when she was just a baby! Now she's 6'2! Yes! You go girl!


Get your kids involved in sports, something to keep their mind of negativity so they can live to their fulletst potential! Alicia did! So can your children! Read about Alicia! Thanks Karen! Job Well Done!!

/www.lehmanathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=630



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The Great American Think-Off!
2010 Edition



The 2010 debate question has been released:
"Do the wealthy have an obligation to help the poor?" will be debated by four finalists on Saturday, June 12th.

We will accept essays of up to 750 words until April 1, 2010 (postmark date).

America’s premier amateur philosophy contest, The Great American Think-Off, releases its 2010 essay and debate question: "Do the wealthy have an obligation to help the poor?" In writing essays on this question, potential debaters may address individuals, groups, or nations as the essayist determines. The Great Debate will be held in New York Mills, Minnesota on Saturday, June 12th, 2010 before a live audience.

Entering the competition is easy. Just submit an essay of 750 words or less by April 1, 2010 (postmark date). You may send your essay in one of three ways: through the mail to Great American Think-Off, New York Mills Regional Cultural Center, P.O. Box 246, New York Mills, MN 56567 or email to nymills@kulcher.org (no attachments) or submit on-line at www.think-off.org. There is no submission fee--submissions are accepted at no charge to writers.

The key to writing a successful essay is to ground your argument in personal experience. The judges are looking for essays that address this central problem of moral philosophy by speaking about personal experience rather than abstract philosophical reasoning. Tell a good story that shows a firm standing on one side or the other of this philosophical question.

A panel of judges will select four finalists to come to New York Mills, Minnesota, for the final debate to be held June 12, 2010. The names of the four finalists, who each receive $500 plus travel, food and lodging expenses, will be announced May 1, 2010. The winner is decided by the audience attending the debate on June 12th and she or he will be named “America’s Greatest Thinker for 2010”.







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Help Haiti!


Paid positions to work on Haitian Reconstruction.

ACET, Inc. has received an immediate request to provide assistance tothe
devastation from the recent earthquake that has befallen the nation of
Haiti. We are looking for anyone interested in going to Haiti to help for a
3- 6 month period. There are no particular skills sets defined at this
point, except the willingness to help wherever needed. We will be presenting
folks and highlighting their unique skills and trade qualifications, so if
the opportunity to help in your area exists - it will be noted and
presented. As you can well imagine, any skill that you may have - can be
of great help.

Typical skill sets needed:


Carpenters
Masons
Electricians
Medical Personnel
Communications
Builders
Heavy Equipment Operators
Plumbers
Logistics
Etc.

THIS IS NOT A VOLUNTEER REQUEST - you will be paid for the work you do.
This is a temporary employment assignment that will include travel, expenses,
remuneration with an understanding that housing accommodations will be
very basic. All that is needed at this point is a passport or ability to obtain one ASAP.

If you are seriously interested or know of someone who would be interested -
please email me back ASAP or forward this email, and I will provide
more details for you at that time.

This is a unique opportunity to make a difference to the people of Haiti!

Onekqua Beverly
Corporate Recruiter/Security Specialist
ACET, Inc.
301-861-5023 (Office)
301-885-3199 (Fax)
otbeverly@adamscomm.com
<http://www.adamscomm.com/>


Rick McGuire <rrmcguire@mac.com>
Subject: My Brothers' Keeper - Help for Haiti



I am making my store, Seaway Furniture @89th & Stony island, a depository for water, cereal, bandages, shoes, cloths, etc, for the brothers and sisters in Haiti. The plan is to box everything up and then I'll have it trucked to the Red Cross Headquarters on Harrison . Weekdays and Saturday 10-6, closed Wednesday and Sunday. Prayer WORKS!!



We Pour Libations out of respect for our ancestors...

Our hearts and souls are mourning the loss of lives with our extended global African family members in Haiti. We send our prayers, financial support and hope for your strength to hold on or find what's needed for survival. Those who are able are on the way to assist, we will not forsake you. We love you and deeply respect the historical model of courage you displayed in fighting for and winning your independence from the brutal, wicked and demonic system of slavery/colonization. We are indebted to you.

Many have asked us for alternative ways to send financial support to Haiti. We've compliled a list of websites/organizations that have been sent to us from trusted sources. Please feel free to do your own research and select wisely.

Relief Efforts to Haiti

This list was created thanks to input from: Kajaria Yarbrough, F/X, Doris Lewis, www.innerlightradio.com, Kevin Powell




1. The Haiti Mission Fund supports an order of nuns who do great work in Haiti. Donating to them is 100% safe.



Haiti Mission Fund

% Sr. Janet Stolba, RJM.

125 Michigan Ave, NE - 4th floor

Washington, DC 20017

Phone - (202) 884-9795, Fax is - (202) 884-9794, Email = jmstolba@aol.com



2. AMHE (ASSOCIATION OF HAITIAN PHYSICIANS ABROAD). This association has been in existence for almost two decades which consists of Physicians, nurses and allied health care workers, students and lay people.



AMHE has done so much for Haitians both at home and abroad. JR's family has been involved with this association for the past 14 years.



Click on Earthquake in Haiti and follow the associated links after you access the AHME web site below



http://www.amhe.org/



3. NAACP has created a Haitian relief fund: www.naacp.org



4. Kevin Powell is also working on a list: http://www.kevinpowell.net/helphaiti/



5. Doris Lewis, email: lewis_doris@sbcglobal.net. Doris Lewis has organized storage space to collect whatever needs to be collected as time goes on (clothes, food, school supplies, toys etc.). She is working out of Hyde Park Storage 5155 South Cottage Grove Avenue, Chicago, IL 60615-3610, (773) 955-5500



6. Wyclefs' Yele Haiti

Use your cell phone to text "Yele" to 501501, which will automatically donate $5 to the Yele Haiti Earthquake Fund (it will be charged to your cell phone bill), or you can go to the website http://www.yele.org/ to DONATE.



7. Haitian Congress to Fortify Haiti

1227 Dodge Avenue
Evanston, IL 60202
Tel: 847-475-5856 Fax: 847-424-1049, Their e-mail is: contact@haitiancongress.org
Their website is: haitiancongress.com, This is the Haitians themselves.



8. Doctors Without Borders

http://doctorswithoutborders.org/



9. Here's an international effort : http://www.shelterbox.org/index2.php



10. There is a collection/donation drop off effort by some Moorish Science Temple members at the
Nguzo Saba Academy on 1929 W. 87th st.



11. LIB Radio Haitian Relief Fund which is Black folks who have a direct line to Haiti. Their website address is: http://www.libradio.com/



12. Children of Haiti Enhancement Foundation, Inc.(C.O.H.E.F.) are collecting donations: http://www.cohef.org/



About Afri-Ware Books, Gifts and Cultural events...


Afri-Ware makes the best of our rich African heritage available as expressed thru books, specialty products, and events. For over 15 years Afri-Ware has served the community by providing a platform to showcase authors, artists and activists who infuse us with a sense of cultural pride. By sharing pertinent information about the history, accomplishments and suggested solutions to improve the community's well-being, Afri-Ware has distinguished itself as a beacon for cultural literacy. Visit our website: www.afriware.net, facebook group "Afri-Ware" or Youtube channel "Afriware" or follow us on Twitter.com/Afriware. Feel free to call us for more information: 708-524-8398.

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"100 History Makers in the Making".

www.thegrio.com


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A Message from the President of the US.

On Tuesday, a catastrophic earthquake struck near Port-au-Prince, Haiti. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, but the death toll -- already in the thousands -- is climbing fast.

This is the worst earthquake to hit the area in more than 200 years. Entire communities have been ripped apart and as many as 3 million people have been directly affected, including tens of thousands of American citizens who are in Haiti.

Our neighbors in Haiti are racing to confront the enormous devastation -- and the OFA community can help.

Click here for more information about essential relief efforts and ways you can help today.

Footage is pouring in of homes collapsing, Haitians carrying injured family members, and hospitals being overrun in what was already the poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere.

I have directed my administration to respond with a swift, coordinated, and aggressive effort to save lives. Personnel from the United States and our partners in the international community are on the ground in damaged areas right now, working side by side with the Haitian people. They're providing much-needed food, water, and sanitation supplies, saving lives and helping local communities start to rebuild.

Despite the fact that we are experiencing tough times here at home, I encourage those who can to reach out and help. It's in times like these that we must show the kind of compassion and humanity that has defined the best of our national character for generations.

Click here to find out what you can do:

http://my.barackobama.com/Haiti

As this story continues to unfold, I hope you will continue to keep the people of Haiti in your thoughts and prayers, as well as the many Haitian-Americans who have done so much to enrich our country and who are worried about friends and loved ones in this time of need.

Thank you,

President Barack Obama


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The Illinois Text Messaging Ban

The new Illinois text messaging law goes into effect on January 1st, 2010.
According to the new law:


"A person may not operate a motor vehicle on a roadway while using an electronic communication device
to compose, send, or read an electronic message"
And goes on to define an electronic message as;
"Electronic message" includes, but is not limited to electronic mail, a text message, an instant message,
or a command or request to access an Internet site."





Please take note of following changes in the Illinois Cell Phone Laws. This might save you some money.
It might also facilitate discussion with your children ages 19 and under.
Visit this link for more information: http://www.drivinglaws.org/ill.php




As many of you know, Gov. Quinn has signed into law a set of new restrictions regarding use of cell phones while driving.
The law will take effect Jan. 1, 2010. I encourage everyone to know what the law stipulates and to begin these
safe-driving habits now. Here are the main points:





ON JANUARY 1, 2010 IT WILL BE ILLEGAL (in the state of Illinois) TO:



* send or read a text message while your car is in traffic, unless fully stopped due to a

blocked roadway (such as a train crossing). A stop sign or stop light does NOT waive

this restriction. You must place the car in park or neutral gear, or pull over to the side of the road and stop.



* send or read an email message while your car is in traffic, unless fully stopped due to a

blocked roadway (such as a train crossing). A stop sign or stop light does NOT waive

this restriction. You must place the car in park or neutral gear, or pull over to the side of the road and stop.



* use a cell phone in a SCHOOL or CONSTRUCTION zone without the use of a hands-free device.

In other words.......you cannot HOLD the cell phone while using it.



You must use a device (such as a Bluetooth headset or ear bud) which allows you to keep both hands on the wheel.

To use such a device you must have a compatible phone and must purchase and install the hands-free device itself.
Contact your cellular provider for specific information about products and services available for your cell phone.
(And don't forget your spouse and/or kids' cell phones!)

Nearly everyone knows about the texting restriction since it was widely published and discussed in the media.
But fewer were aware that the law also applies to emails, and very few were aware of the restrictions
which apply to SCHOOL and CONSTRUCTION zones.

Fines for violation of these laws will start at $75.00, with higher fines expected for the most serious infractions.
Obviously, no fine can ever compensate for injuries or loss of life.

The law does NOT apply to use of a navigation device, such as a GPS system.

Please share this information with everyone, particularly teenage drivers and friends/family who do NOT live in Illinois
and may not be aware of the law.

Remember.......the law takes effect Jan. 1, 2010.......but abiding by it now will build good driving habits
and lessen the possibility of "forgetting" when January arrives.










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America Without a Middle Class




Can you imagine an America without a strong middle class? If you can, would it still be America as we know it?

Today, one in five Americans is unemployed, underemployed or just plain out of work. One in nine families can't make the minimum payment on their credit cards. One in eight mortgages is in default or foreclosure. One in eight Americans is on food stamps. More than 120,000 families are filing for bankruptcy every month. The economic crisis has wiped more than $5 trillion from pensions and savings, has left family balance sheets upside down, and threatens to put ten million homeowners out on the street.

Families have survived the ups and downs of economic booms and busts for a long time, but the fall-behind during the busts has gotten worse while the surge-ahead during the booms has stalled out. In the boom of the 1960s, for example, median family income jumped by 33% (adjusted for inflation). But the boom of the 2000s resulted in an almost-imperceptible 1.6% increase for the typical family. While Wall Street executives and others who owned lots of stock celebrated how good the recovery was for them, middle class families were left empty-handed.

The crisis facing the middle class started more than a generation ago. Even as productivity rose, the wages of the average fully-employed male have been flat since the 1970s.





But core expenses kept going up. By the early 2000s, families were spending twice as much (adjusted for inflation) on mortgages than they did a generation ago -- for a house that was, on average, only ten percent bigger and 25 years older. They also had to pay twice as much to hang on to their health insurance.

To cope, millions of families put a second parent into the workforce. But higher housing and medical costs combined with new expenses for child care, the costs of a second car to get to work and higher taxes combined to squeeze families even harder. Even with two incomes, they tightened their belts. Families today spend less than they did a generation ago on food, clothing, furniture, appliances, and other flexible purchases -- but it hasn't been enough to save them. Today's families have spent all their income, have spent all their savings, and have gone into debt to pay for college, to cover serious medical problems, and just to stay afloat a little while longer.



Through it all, families never asked for a handout from anyone, especially Washington. They were left to go on their own, working harder, squeezing nickels, and taking care of themselves. But their economic boats have been taking on water for years, and now the crisis has swamped millions of middle class families.

The contrast with the big banks could not be sharper. While the middle class has been caught in an economic vise, the financial industry that was supposed to serve them has prospered at their expense. Consumer banking -- selling debt to middle class families -- has been a gold mine. Boring banking has given way to creative banking, and the industry has generated tens of billions of dollars annually in fees made possible by deceptive and dangerous terms buried in the fine print of opaque, incomprehensible, and largely unregulated contracts.

And when various forms of this creative banking triggered economic crisis, the banks went to Washington for a handout. All the while, top executives kept their jobs and retained their bonuses. Even though the tax dollars that supported the bailout came largely from middle class families -- from people already working hard to make ends meet -- the beneficiaries of those tax dollars are now lobbying Congress to preserve the rules that had let those huge banks feast off the middle class.

Pundits talk about "populist rage" as a way to trivialize the anger and fear coursing through the middle class. But they have it wrong. Families understand with crystalline clarity that the rules they have played by are not the same rules that govern Wall Street. They understand that no American family is "too big to fail." They recognize that business models have shifted and that big banks are pulling out all the stops to squeeze families and boost revenues. They understand that their economic security is under assault and that leaving consumer debt effectively unregulated does not work.

Families are ready for change. According to polls, large majorities of Americans have welcomed the Obama Administration's proposal for a new Consumer Financial Protection Agency (CFPA). The CFPA would be answerable to consumers -- not to banks and not to Wall Street. The agency would have the power to end tricks-and-traps pricing and to start leveling the playing field so that consumers have the tools they need to compare prices and manage their money. The response of the big banks has been to swing into action against the Agency, fighting with all their lobbying might to keep business-as-usual. They are pulling out all the stops to kill the agency before it is born. And if those practices crush millions more families, who cares -- so long as the profits stay high and the bonuses keep coming.

America today has plenty of rich and super-rich. But it has far more families who did all the right things, but who still have no real security. Going to college and finding a good job no longer guarantee economic safety. Paying for a child's education and setting aside enough for a decent retirement have become distant dreams. Tens of millions of once-secure middle class families now live paycheck to paycheck, watching as their debts pile up and worrying about whether a pink slip or a bad diagnosis will send them hurtling over an economic cliff.

America without a strong middle class? Unthinkable, but the once-solid foundation is shaking.

Elizabeth Warren is the Leo Gottlieb Professor of Law at Harvard and is currently the Chair of the Congressional Oversight Panel.




ARCHIVES



$5,000 Bounty




Father Michael Pfleger of the Faith Community of St. Sabina is offering
a $5,000 bounty on the head of anyone involved in the murder of our youth.

"There have been 78 Chicago Public School students shot in two and a half months.
When the murder of Derrion Albert was shown on a video, we saw an outcry in the
city and in the nation but we are now being lulled back to sleep. We refuse to
become immune to our children being shot and killed...it may be cold and crass
but whatever it takes to send the message that you will not shoot our children
and get away with it."

The money for the billboards is coming from donations and not church funds.
St. Sabina's biggest supporter of the billboards is John Rogers of Ariel Investments.

After today's press conference, another family walked up to Pfleger to ask for help
in bringing their relative's murderer to justice. Their family member was shot
and killed in November of 2008 and the case went unsolved.

If you would like to donate to the billboards or bounty or have information on a
murder, contact St. Sabina at 773-483-4300 http://www.saintsabina.org/


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Embracing lifetime value

If you walk into a company-owned cell phone store to sign up for a contract, what are you worth?

Given the huge gross margins at AT&T and Verizon and the standard two-year contract, I think it's easy to figure on more than $2000 in lifetime value.

If you ran a business where a customer represented an additional $2,000 in profit, how would you staff? How long would you make someone wait? If staff costs $25 an hour, how long would that extra person take to pay off?

Few businesses understand (really understand) just how much a customer is worth. Add to this the additional profit you get from a delighted customer spreading the word--it can easily double or triple the lifetime value.

So, a chiropractor might see a new patient being worth $2,500, easily. And yet... how much is she spending on courting, catering to and seducing that new customer? My guess is that $50 feels like a lot to the doc. Instead of comparing what you invest to the benefit you receive from the first bill, the first visit, the first transaction, it's important to not only recognize but embrace the true lifetime value of one more customer.

Write it down. Post it on the wall. What would happen if you spent 100% of that amount on each of your next ten new customers? That's more money than you have to spend right now, I know that, but what would happen? Imagine how fast you would grow, how quickly the word would spread.

Here's how you'll know when you've really embraced this--a good customer at your podiatry practice (or supermarket or tax firm) walks out the door in a huff and you turn to your partner and say, "There goes $74,000."

"Seth Godin" <blogmailfromseth@yahoo.com>

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Things you can do to fight against H1N1

From our Favorite Dr Oz


The only portals of entry are the nostrils and mouth/throat.
In a global epidemic of this nature, it's almost impossible to avoid coming into contact with H1 N1 in spite of all precautions.


Contact with H1 N1 is not so much of a problem as proliferation is.

While you are still healthy and not showing any symptoms of H1 N1 infection, in order to prevent proliferation,
aggravation of symptoms and development of secondary infections, some very simple steps, not fully highlighted in most official communications, can be practiced (instead of focusing on how to stock N95 or Tamiflu):

1. Frequent hand-washing (well highlighted in all official communications).

2. "Hands-off-the-face" approach. Resist all temptations to touch any part of face (unless you want to eat or bathe.)

3. Gargle twice a day with warm salt water (use Listerine or Hydrogen Peroxide if you don't trust salt). H1N1 takes 2-3 days after initial infection in the throat! nasal cavity to proliferate and show characteristic symptoms.
Simple gargling prevents proliferation. In a way, gargling with salt water has the same effect on a healthy individual that Tamiflu has on an infected one. Don't underestimate this simple, inexpensive and powerful preventative method.

4. Similar to 3 above, clean your nostrils at least once every day with warm salt water, or hydrogen peroxide. *Not everybody may be good at Jala Neti or Sutra Neti (very good Yoga asanas to clean nasal cavities), but *blowing the nose softly once a day and swabbing both nostrils with cotton buds dipped in warm salt water is very effective in bringing down viral population.*

5. Boost your natural immunity with foods that are rich in Vitamin C (Amla and other citrus fruits). *If you have to supplement with Vitamin C tablets, make sure that it also has Zinc to boost absorption.

6. Drink as much of warm liquids (tea, coffee, etc) as you can. Drinking warm liquids has the same effect as gargling, but in the reverse direction. They wash off proliferating viruses from the throat into the stomach where they cannot
survive, proliferate or do any harm.


A word from me, Stay Focused!

Be conscious of your surroundings.

Illness begins in the head, before it even makes it to the body!

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       ARCHIVES

This is interesting . .. .

Margarine was originally manufactured to fatten turkeys. When it killed the turkeys, the people who had put all the money into the research wanted a payback so they put their heads together to figure out what to do with this product to get their money back. It was a white substance with no food appeal so they added the yellow coloring and sold it to people to use in place of butter. How do you like it? They have come out with some clever new flavorings..

DO YOU KNOW.. the difference between margarine and butter?

Read on to the end...gets very interesting!

Both have the same amount of calories.

Butter is slightly higher in saturated fats at 8 grams compared to 5 grams.

Eating margarine can increase heart disease in women by 53% over eating the same amount of butter, according to a recent Harvard Medical Study.

Eating butter increases the absorption of many other nutrients in other foods.

Butter has many nutritional benefits where margarine has a few
only because they are added!

Butter tastes much better than margarine and it can enhance the flavors of other foods.

Butter has been around for centuries where margarine has been around for less than 100 years .

And now, for Margarine..

Very high in Trans fatty acids.

Triple risk of coronary heart disease .
Increases total cholesterol and LDL (this is the bad cholesterol) and lowers HDL cholesterol, (the good cholesterol)

Increases the risk of cancers up to five fold..

Lowers quality of breast milk.

Decreases immune response.

Decreases insulin response.

And here's the most disturbing fact..... HERE IS THE PART THAT IS VERY INTERESTING!

Margarine is but ONE MOLECULE away from being PLASTIC..

This fact alone was enough to have me avoiding margarine for life and anything else that is hydrogenated (this means hydrogen is added, changing the molecular structure of the substance).

You can try this yourself:

Purchase a tub of margarine and leave it in your garage or shaded area. Within a couple of days you will note a couple of things:

* no flies, not even those pesky fruit flies will go near it (that should tell you something)

* it does not rot or smell differently because it has no nutritional value ; nothing will grow on it. Even those teeny weeny microorganisms will not a find a home to grow. Why? Because it is nearly plastic . Would you melt your Tupperware and spread that on your toast?

Share This With Your Friends......(If you want to 'butter them up')!

Chinese Proverb:
'When someone shares something of value with you and you benefit from it, you have a moral obligation to share it with others.
Pass the BUTTER PLEASE

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Beginning OCTOBER the State of Illinois is offering a new service connected to your driver's license.

You can click on the link below and add two emergency contacts to your license data. Therefore, if you are incapacitated in some way, your license can be scanned and the emergency contacts retrieved so your loved ones can be contacted. It only takes two minutes to complete.


I encourage everyone to take advantage of this new service! Drive safely ALWAYS!!http://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/drivers/ecd/home.html

PS: Here is a link that gives you tips for avoiding tickets from the traffic cameras!!
http://cbs2chicago.com/local/red.light.cameras.2.1198531.html



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Sick for Profit  Video


"America's High Tech "Invisible Man"
By Tyrone D. Taborn

You may not have heard of Dr. Mark Dean. And you aren't alone. But almost everything in your life has been affected by his work..

See, Dr. Mark Dean is a Ph.D. from Stanford University. He is in the National Hall of Inventors. He has more than 30 patents pending. He is a vice president with IBM. Oh, yeah. And he is also the architect of the modern-day personal computer. Dr. Dean holds three of the original nine patents on the computer that all PCs are based upon. And, Dr. Mark Dean is an African American.

So how is! it that we can celebrate the 20th anniversary of the IBM personal computer without reading or hearing a single word about him? Given all of the pressure mass media are under about negative portrayals of African Americans on television and in print, you would think it
would be a slam dunk to highlight someone like Dr. Dean.

Somehow, though, we have managed to miss the shot. History is cruel when it comes to telling the stories of African Americans. Dr. Dean isn't the first Black inventor to be overlooked Consider John Stanard, inventor of the refrigerator, George Sampson, creator of the clothes dryer,
Alexander Miles and his elevator, Lewis Latimer and the electric lamp.
All of these inventors share two things:

One, they changed the landscape of our society; and, two, society relegated them to the footnotes of history. Hopefully, Dr. Mark Dean won't go away as quietly as they did. He certainly shouldn't. Dr. Dean helped start a Digital Revolution that created people like Microsoft's Bill Gates and Dell Computer's Michael Dell. Millions of jobs in information technology can be traced back directly to ! Dr. Dean.

More important, stories like Dr. Mark Dean's should serve as inspiration for African-American children. Already victims of the "Digital Divide" and failing school systems, young, Black kids might embrace technology with more enthusiasm! if they knew someone like Dr. Dean already was leading the way.

Although technically Dr... Dean can't be credited with creating the computer -- that is left to Alan Turing, a pioneering 20th-century English mathematician, widely considered to be the father of modern computer science -- Dr. Dean rightly deserves to take a bow for the machine we use today. The computer really wasn't practical for home or small business use until he came along, leading a team that developed the interio! r architecture (ISA systems! bus) that enables multiple devices, such as modems and printers, to be connected to personal computers.

In other words, because of Dr. Dean, the PC became a part of our daily lives . For most of us, changing the face of society would have been enough. But not for Dr. Dean.. Still in his early forties, he has! a lot of inventing left in him.

He recently made history again by leading the design team responsible for creating the first 1-gigahertz processor chip.. It's just another huge step in making computers faster and smaller. As the world congratulates itself for the new Digital Age brought on by the personal computer, we need to guarantee that the African-American story is part of the hoopla surrounding the most stunning technological advance the world has ever seen.. We cannot afford to let Dr.. Mark Dean become a footnote in history. He is well worth his own history book. 

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Mortgage HELP from - NACA -

Neighborhood Assistance Corp. of America

NACA (a non-profit HUD certified counseling agency) that helps people keep their homes. The address for the local Chicago office is below. NACA’s tour began July 17th in Cleveland and then every week nationwide. The tour was in Chicago last weekend. Over 25,000 homeowners participate at each event with thousands having their mortgage restructured the same day to an affordable payment with interest rates permanently reduced to as low as 2%. NACA has legally binding agreements with all the major lenders/servicers to achieve this. All of NACA’s services are FREE.


www.naca.com

4425 W. 63rd St. Chicago, IL 60629

773.723.6222

888-302-6222



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Our children ARE our responsibility!

We must all do what we can to insure their future as well as ours.   You can be of service by passing this info along to everyone and every organization that you know of that relates to our youth.  This is an email from fellow community youth organizer:

Dear Friends of KOB;


We hope that this email finds you well. Our gratitude goes to those who have continually supported KOB throughout our short but succesful years of existence. It is with great disappointment that we announce that some of the youth involved in the summer job programs have lost their positions in the workforce due to a lack of funding. There were about 8 jobs that we're lost due to the cut.


We realize here at KOB, that this economic crisis has affected all of our communities. Furthermore, it gives youth an alternative into any kind of involvement in youth violence.As you may know, KOB has initiated the summer job program this June and for many it was shortly lived. With that said, we were inquiring as to any job openings that you may know of, or have open yourself. T


he youth have dilligently gone through the process of orientations and specific job trainings and would make an asset to any work environment. We are asking now more than ever that any possible opening be considered for KOB members.

Thank you in advance and thank you for your continual support.

Sincerely,

Kids Off The Block


    



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Air Conditioner


Please do NOT turn on A/C as
soon as you enter the car.  Open the  windows after
you enter your car and turn ON the air-conditioningafter a couple of minutes.

Here's why:
According to a research, the car dashboard, sofa, air freshener emit Benzene, a Cancer causing toxin (carcinogen - take time to observe the smell
of heated plastic in your car).  In addition to causing cancer, Benzene poisons your bones, causes anemia and reduces white blood cells.  Prolonged exposure will cause Leukemia, increasing the risk of cancer.  May also cause 
miscarriage.  Acceptable Benzene level indoors is 50 mg per sq. ft.

A car parked indoors with windows closed will contain 400-800 mg of Benzene.

If parked outdoors under the sun at a temperature above 60 degrees F, the Benzene level goes up to 2000-4000 mg, 40 times the acceptable level...
People who get into the car, keeping windows closed will inevitably inhale,
in quick succession excessive amounts of the toxin.  Benzene is a toxin that affects your kidney and liver.  What's worse, it is extremely difficult for your body to expel this toxic stuff.

So friends, please open the windows and door of your car - give time for interior to air out -dispel the deadly stuff - before you enter. SHARE THE GOOD NEWS! What goes out, must come back!



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You probably don't realize just how much power you have, especially when it comes to the media.

Everything you see and hear is not the truth.

Get outside of the box and read this article!


http://reclaimthemedia.org/journalistic_practice/we_save_journalism0227
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President Barack Obama and Family

June 2-7th 2009 Presidential Trip


http://www.flickr.com/photos/whitehouse/sets/72157619421980633/show/



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LIFE WITH BIG BROTHER
Census GPS-tagging your home's front door
Coordinates being taken for every residence in nation


By Bob Unruh
© 2009 WorldNetDaily

GPS satellite

According to an online Yahoo program, the Global Position System coordinates for the White House, probably one of the best-known publicly owned buildings in the world, are 38.898590 Latitude and -77.035971 Longitude. And since you know that, it's no big deal for the White House to know the coordinates for your front door, is it?
Some people think it is, and are upset over an army of some 140,000 workers hired in part with a $700 million taxpayer-funded contract to collect GPS readings for every front door in the nation.
The data collection, presented as preparation for the 2010 Census, is pinpointing with computer accuracy the locations and has raised considerable concern from privacy advocates who have questioned why the information is needed. The privacy advocates also are more than a little worried over what could be done with that information.
Enhancing the concerns is the Obama administration's recent decision to put White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel in an oversight role over the census, which will be used to determine a reapportionment of congressional seats and could be used to solidify a single political party's control over the nation, its budget, military and future.
Commerce Secretary Gary Locke recently told the W ashington Post: "The census director reports to me, and, of course, I serve at the pleasure of the president." He added the White House told him "it has no interest in politicizing [the census]."
But at American Daily Review, blogger Douglas Gibbs had more than a few doubts.

 

"GPS coordinates of your front door will make it easier for the government to monitor you," he said.

"The U.S. Census Bureau is simply an excuse – a harmless looking means of obtaining the front door coordinates. The creation of GPS coordinates for front doors has nothing to do with the census, in all honesty, no matter how much the United States government tries to convince you that it does."
Learn what America means, get "The Patriot's Handbook: A Citizenship Primer for a New Generation of Americans"
He recalled wondering why, just weeks ago, the Obama administration announced its oversight of the census, "literally taking control of the census away from the Commerce Department."
He put that together with Obama's longtime push for national service.
"The Obamites, thirsty to serve their new messianic figure, have lost enough of their objectivity to be willingly recruited into such an insidious program like gaining these coordinates for the U.S. government. … I ask again, what would be the purpose of shooting the GPS coordinates of American doorways?" he wrote.
The answer he provided was alarming.
"Imagine, if you will, that there are a number of people in a neighborhood that could not find the addresses they are tasked with finding. They are not locals, maybe are unable to read a map, or perhaps do not have the time to pull out a map, and they need to find you with specific GPS coordinates. Their devices would lead them to your front door with these coordinates.
Imagine a crisis is afoot, and martial law is put into place. U.S. troops need to round up particular folks," he wrote.
"Let's take this a step further. After all, with Barack Obama desiring to decrease the number of folks in the military, and with forces committed worldwide, we may not have sufficient military forces at home to deal with a rising national emergency.

If the government decided to rely on foreign troops, perhaps United Nations personnel, most of which may not understand the street signs, much less know the lay of the land, they could use GPS devices to direct them to your front door," he wrote.

(does anyone remember after 911 how Bush thanked the many foreign pilots who flew combat aircraft along our borders to "prevent terrorism at home" (in actuality, a foreign national is a lot less likely to question an order to shoot  or bomb civilians, if it's not his home country he is flying in). rs


According to the Census Bureau's website, the GPS technology "allows us to reduce the amount of time spent by census workers in locating addresses. … Most importantly, by adding a GPS coordinate to each housing unit, the Census Bureau is able to ensure that residents are counted in the right location."
At Canada Free Press, commentator J.B. Williams said, "I can't resist the urge to question the authority and purpose behind such a BIG BROTHER initiative, when the official census itself is not due to be taken until 2010…
"No imagination is required to think up a whole laundry list of evil that could be done with a nationwide GPS grid of coordinate's markers painted on every private home across the country. But I was having trouble thinking up one good reason for it, even one legitimate use that would justify what must be a very expensive undertaking," he said.
"Why does the Obama administration need or want the latitude and longitude coordinates for every home in America?
Why the rush to GPS paint every home in the next 90 days?
Why must the marker be within 40 feet of every front door?
For what possible purpose does the Fed need GPS coordinates for every home, and under what authority do they have the right?

Census workers, whom I asked, had the same holy-crap look on their faces that I had by then," he wrote.
Then he cited the cooperative effort that the U.S. Census Bureau has reached with ACORN, the organization of community activists with which Obama worked.
"Obama's interest in an ACORN-controlled 2010 Census, for the purpose of redistricting to the advantage of Democrats before the 2010 mid-term elections, comes as NO shock from a regime known for their heavy handed Rules for Radicals political strategies. But what does this have to do with GPS marking every home in the country?" he questioned.
Ask those who have served military duty, he said. They are very familiar with the most common use of GPS target painting, and the rest might want to read books such as "The Precision Revolution: GPS and the Future of Aerial Warfare."
Online sources noted that Google Maps already probably has listed most homes in the nation.
"But the front door? Sounds like a jackboot convenience to me," said RightSoup.com.
Added Williams, "What I do know is this … Coincidences of this number and magnitude don't happen. … I also know that people had better start asking the right people the right questions and demanding answers fast. Begin with asking the mainstream press why there has been no public notification of the federal governments GPS marking your front door?"
A number of concerned citizens have contacted WND about the program, and repeatedly have cited warnings delivered by the GPS squad members that their failure to allow the readings would result in fines and possibly imprisonment under Title 13, which allows the census to be taken.
But repeatedly they've gotten no answers when asked what a GPS reading has to do with the number of people living at the home – which isn't supposed to be subject to questions until 2010 anyway.
One WND reader raised these questions to a local census office.
"What authority does the U.S. Census Bureau have for sending anyone to my front door in April of 2009 to mark it with GPS coordinates? This is unacceptable. The census is not due until 2010, and the usurpation of the census by the White House is unconstitutional. … This citizen will not answer census questions until the year they are due, and demands that my GPS coordinates be removed from all government records."
The census response?
"Address canvassing should conclude by mid-July. The operation will use new hand-held computers equipped with GPS to increase geographic accuracy. The ability to capture GPS coordinates for most of the nation's housing units will greatly reduce the number of geographic coding errors caused by using paper maps in previous counts. … During the address canvassing operation, census workers may ask to verify a housing structure's address and whether there are additional living quarters on the property. All census workers carry official government badges marked with just their name. You also may ask them for a picture ID from another source to confirm their identity. In addition, some census workers might carry a 'U. S. Census Workers' bag."
Another WND reader, from Washington state, reported he is having his attorney look into the legality of the GPS data collection and hopes to have enough support for a legal challenge.
The reader, whose name was withheld because of his concerns over repercussions, said a government home data collector ignored his no trespassing sign, and he was threatened by the collector for wanting to refuse to provide "census" information.
He said GPS mapping nowhere is authorized for census workers.
Census spokesman Stephen Buckner told WND the activity is, in fact, proper, and even necessary. There are homes being built and torn down constantly, and the census needs such information. Local building records and other government databases such as tax records would not suffice, he said.
"There are 140,000 workers walking every street of America," he told WND, in order to document 145 million addresses with GPS coordinates.
He assured WND that all such personal information is confidential, because employees of contractors doing the work are subject to a $250,000 fine or imprisonment for five years for revealing personal information. He also confirmed that the last case that was prosecuted under the law was nearly 50 years ago.
"We have to verify every single address," he said.
************************************************

THIS IS SCARY STUFF, IF YOU THINK OF ALL THE POSSIBLE RAMIFICATIONS OF SOMETHING LIKE THIS BEING IMPLEMENTED HERE IN THE "LAND OF THE FREE"...least ways..seeems that way to me.


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BET to Launch New Network


Centric Will Target Affluent, Trendsetting Black Audience Beginning in October
by Andrew Hampp
Source: AdAge.com





The cable upfront season has already spawned announcements ranging from programming acquisitions and ventures into live action to new names. But tonight Viacom's BET Networks will announce the launch of a new network, Centric, at its presentation to advertisers in New York.



Centric, named for "being at the center of the universe" of black culture, BET CEO Debra Lee said, is slated to launch in October in nearly 45 million homes. The network is designed to target affluent, trendsetting black 25- to 54-year-olds with programming that resembles a black-skewing version of Bravo.



Scott Mills, president-chief operating officer of BET Networks, said Centric allows BET to focus on what he calls a "very valuable segment" of the black audience while simultaneously serving more-diverse viewers on BET's flagship channel. Centric likely will take the place of BETJ, a sibling network now in nearly 45 million homes. "We are currently in discussions with our affiliate partners around the future of BETJ,"
Mr. Mills said.


Among the new shows Centric will use to reach that valuable segment are "Keeping Up With the Joneses," a "Real Housewives"-esque docu-soap chronicling the lives of high society in Houston; "Model City," which
follows young black men trying to crack the New York modeling industry; and "Urban Livin'," billed as a "chic lifestyle interio-design show." Centric will also focus heavily on music and revive the Soul Train Awards for a November event in Atlanta.

We gather the info for you, so please pass it on!


For Students!

Recruiting candidates for the fall session of  a paid Independent Media Internships program. We're looking to recruit a diverse set of graduate and undergraduate students who are experienced with everything from blogging to vlogging; audio to video. More information about the program is below, but the deadline for Fall applications is Friday, May 1 at 12:00 p.m. CST!

The application is here:

http://www.themedia consortium. org/internship- application/ .

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 Essential back-to-school software


Visit:  Download.com

You might be enjoying the dog days of summer now, but look out!

The school year is just around the corner, and teachers, books, classes, and winter
will be here before you know it. Get a jump on the upcoming school year with
a collection of downloadable software for communicating with classmates,
managing your homework, learning new study skills, or harnessing the reference
power of the Internet. You can even find software to let you call your parents
free from college. (Seriously, your mom wants a call.)

Read the entire article and try the software FREE, click here




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Interactive One Network Includes NewsOne, TheUrbanDaily, HelloBeautiful and Black Planet


Interactive One, LLC the digital connection for Black America and the new digital division of  Radio One, Inc. (Nasdaq: ROIAK and ROIA), the largest African-American multimedia company, launches three new content-driven websites: NewsOne, TheUrbanDaily and HelloBeautiful.

The three sites will join BlackPlanet, the social networking site for African-Americans,  acquired by Radio One earlier this year, making it the largest online media entity for African-Americans reaching more than 6 million unique visitors monthly. This announcement comes just a few weeks after Radio One announced the results of its "Black American Survey,"
the largest ever national survey of African-Americans. The survey showed that nearly 68% of African-Americans are now online compared with 71% of all Americans, proving that the digital divide is now closed. The study also shows that more than 16 million African-Americans are
currently using broadband, a number that is projected to grow by 31% to 21 million by 2009.

"Interactive One is the largest and most comprehensive digital network for African-Americans," said Smokey D. Fontaine , Chief Content Officer, Interactive One. "Our family of targeted content sites and our social network enables users to find original and intelligent content tailored to
African-American's interests and needs and to engage in conversation
with the Black community online."
 



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`````````````


May 2008

 See Master Accupuncturist Dr. Frank Yurasek &

Radio/TV Personality Zelda Robinson in Self Healing Video

http://womenandchildren1st.blogspot.com/
 
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This month, we feature WomenOnCall.org volunteer Jeri Ann Cheswick, who shared her skills and expertise with Higher Learning Network, a local nonprofit....


About Higher Learning Network:


The Higher Learning Network, www.HigherLearningNetwork.org, offers self empowerment seminars/training for the community with an emphasis on learning how to develop and trust the inner self. It evolved over the past 15 years under Zelda Robinson Communications as a result of facilitating Free Self-Empowerment Information Seminars for the general public on a variety of subjects.(www.ZeldaSpeaks.com) As an International Speaker/Trainer/Author her passion for helping people gave her much joy, but she also discovered how hard it was for some parents to get their children into school. Because of this Zelda began searching for scholarship monies.



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Sunday, February 17, 2008
  inspirational conversations
inspirational conversations in chicago sun-times

be sure and visit

http://www.chicagosuntimes.com

click on columnists
scroll down on left and see Columns
click on Colums
click on stella foster
click on PINK NOIR WOMAN LOGO (to the left of her photo)
click on page 6 - wah lah! N'Spirational Conversations!
enjoy!

pick up your copy SOUTH of Roosevelt Road and South Suburbs!



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ABC7Chicago.com:
Zelda Robinson & The Higher Learning Network presents Make A Difference Day for youth in community who are tired of negative images portrayed on TV. ...
abclocal.go.com/wls/story?section=community_calendar&id=3382841 - 50k


American Women Journalists 15th Anniversary Celebration at ABC Channel 7 Thursday Jan. 31st, 2008



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Diane Latiker - Founder/President
Kids Off The Block, Inc.
11621 S. Michigan Ave.
Chicago, IL 60628
773-995-9077
http://dogoodchannel.com/nonprofits
www.kidsofftheblock.org
www.youtube/dianekob
www.nationalblockclubuniversity.com
www.myspace.com/kidsofftheblock



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The Times's technology columnist, David Pogue, keeps you on top of the industry.

Suppose you call my cell to leave me a message. First you hear my own voice: "Hi, it's David Pogue. Leave a message, and I'll get back to you"--and THEN you hear a 15-second canned carrier message.

* Sprint: "[Phone number] is not available right now. Please leave a detailed message after the tone. When you have finished recording, you may hang up, or press pound for more options."

* Verizon: "At the tone, please record your message. When you have finished recording, you may hang up, or press 1 for more options. To leave a callback number, press 5. (Beep)"


* AT&T: "To page this person, press five now. At the tone, please record your message. When you are finished, you may hang up, or press one for more options."


* T-Mobile: "Record your message after the tone. To send a numeric page, press five. When you are finished recording, hang up, or for delivery options, press pound."


(You hear a similar message when you call in to hear your own messages. "You. Have. 15. Messages. To listen to your messages, press 1." WHY ELSE WOULD I BE CALLING?)


I, the voicemailbox owner, cannot turn off this additional greeting message. You, the caller, can bypass it, but only if you know the secret keypress--and it's different for each carrier. So you'd have to know which cellphone carrier I use, and that of every person you'll ever call; in other words, this trick is no solution.


These messages are outrageous for two reasons. First, they waste your time. Good heavens: it's 2009. WE KNOW WHAT TO DO AT THE BEEP.





Do we really need to be told to hang up when we're finished!? Would anyone, ever, want to "send a numeric page?" Who still carries a pager, for heaven's sake? Or what about "leave a callback number?" We can SEE the callback number right on our phones!





Second, we're PAYING for these messages. These little 15-second waits add up--bigtime. If Verizon's 70 million customers leave or check messages twice a weekday, Verizon rakes in about $620 million a year. That's your money. And your time: three hours of your time a year, just sitting there listening to the same message over and over again every year.





In 2007, I spoke at an international cellular conference in Italy. The big buzzword was ARPU--Average Revenue Per User. The seminars all had titles like, "Maximizing ARPU In a Digital Age." And yes, several attendees (cell executives) admitted to me, point-blank, that the voicemail instructions exist primarily to make you use up airtime, thereby maximizing ARPU.





Right now, the carriers continue to enjoy their billion-dollar scam only because we're not organized enough to do anything about it. But it doesn't have to be this way. You don't have to sit there, waiting to leave your message, listening to a speech recorded by a third-grade teacher on Ambien.





Let's push back, and hard. We want those time-wasting, money-leaking messages eliminated, or at least made optional.





I asked my Twitter followers for help coming up with a war cry, a slogan, to identify this campaign. They came up with some good ones:





"Where's the Beep?"
"Let it Beep"
"We Know. Let's Go."
"Lose the Wait"
"My Voicemail, My Recording"
"Hell, no, we won't hold!"



My favorite, though, is the one that sounds like a call to action: "Take Back the Beep."





And here's how we're going to do it.





We're going to descend, en masse, on our carriers. Send them a complaint, politely but firmly. Together, we'll send them a LOT of complaints.





If enough of us make our unhappiness known, I'll bet they'll change.





I've told each of the four major carriers that they'll be hearing from us. They've told us where to send the messages:





* Verizon: Post a complaint here: http://bit.ly/FJncH.





* AT&T: Send e-mail to Mark Siegel, executive director of media relations: MS8460@att.com.





* Sprint: Post a complaint here: http://bit.ly/9CmrZ





* T-Mobile: Post a complaint here: http://bit.ly/2rKy0u





Three of the four carriers are just directing us to their general Web forums. Smells like a cop-out, I know. (As for AT&T: Props to the guy for letting me publish his e-mail address! Hope he knows what he's in for!)





Yet all four carriers promise that they'll read and consider our posts. And we have two things going for us.





First, I have a feeling that the volume of complaints will be too big for them to ignore. To that end, I hope you'll pass these instructions along, blog them, Twitter them, and spread the word. (Gizmodo, Consumerist and others have agreed to help out.) And I hope you'll take the time to complain yourself. Do it now, before you forget.





Second, we'll all be watching. I'll be reporting on the carriers' responses. If they ignore us, we'll shame them. If they respond, we'll celebrate them.





Either way, it's time to rise up. It's time for this crass, time-wasting money-grab to end for good.































The Mandatory 15-Second Voicemail Instructions



Suppose you call my cell to leave me a message. First you hear my own voice: "Hi, it's David Pogue. Leave a message, and I'll get back to you"--and THEN you hear a 15-second canned carrier message.



* Sprint: "[Phone number] is not available right now. Please leave a detailed message after the tone. When you have finished recording, you may hang up, or press pound for more options."





* Verizon: "At the tone, please record your message. When you have finished recording, you may hang up, or press 1 for more options. To leave a callback number, press 5. (Beep)"





* AT&T: "To page this person, press five now. At the tone, please record your message. When you are finished, you may hang up, or press one for more options."





* T-Mobile: "Record your message after the tone. To send a numeric page, press five. When you are finished recording, hang up, or for delivery options, press pound."





(You hear a similar message when you call in to hear your own messages. "You. Have. 15. Messages. To listen to your messages, press 1." WHY ELSE WOULD I BE CALLING?)





I, the voicemailbox owner, cannot turn off this additional greeting message. You, the caller, can bypass it, but only if you know the secret keypress--and it's different for each carrier. So you'd have to know which cellphone carrier I use, and that of every person you'll ever call; in other words, this trick is no solution.





These messages are outrageous for two reasons. First, they waste your time. Good heavens: it's 2009. WE KNOW WHAT TO DO AT THE BEEP.





Do we really need to be told to hang up when we're finished!? Would anyone, ever, want to "send a numeric page?" Who still carries a pager, for heaven's sake? Or what about "leave a callback number?" We can SEE the callback number right on our phones!





Second, we're PAYING for these messages. These little 15-second waits add up--bigtime. If Verizon's 70 million customers leave or check messages twice a weekday, Verizon rakes in about $620 million a year. That's your money. And your time: three hours of your time a year, just sitting there listening to the same message over and over again every year.





In 2007, I spoke at an international cellular conference in Italy. The big buzzword was ARPU--Average Revenue Per User. The seminars all had titles like, "Maximizing ARPU In a Digital Age." And yes, several attendees (cell executives) admitted to me, point-blank, that the voicemail instructions exist primarily to make you use up airtime, thereby maximizing ARPU.





Right now, the carriers continue to enjoy their billion-dollar scam only because we're not organized enough to do anything about it. But it doesn't have to be this way. You don't have to sit there, waiting to leave your message, listening to a speech recorded by a third-grade teacher on Ambien.





Let's push back, and hard. We want those time-wasting, money-leaking messages eliminated, or at least made optional.





I asked my Twitter followers for help coming up with a war cry, a slogan, to identify this campaign. They came up with some good ones:





"Where's the Beep?"
"Let it Beep"
"We Know. Let's Go."
"Lose the Wait"
"My Voicemail, My Recording"
"Hell, no, we won't hold!"



My favorite, though, is the one that sounds like a call to action: "Take Back the Beep."





And here's how we're going to do it.





We're going to descend, en masse, on our carriers. Send them a complaint, politely but firmly. Together, we'll send them a LOT of complaints.





If enough of us make our unhappiness known, I'll bet they'll change.





I've told each of the four major carriers that they'll be hearing from us. They've told us where to send the messages:





* Verizon: Post a complaint here: http://bit.ly/FJncH.





* AT&T: Send e-mail to Mark Siegel, executive director of media relations: MS8460@att.com.





* Sprint: Post a complaint here: http://bit.ly/9CmrZ





* T-Mobile: Post a complaint here: http://bit.ly/2rKy0u





Three of the four carriers are just directing us to their general Web forums. Smells like a cop-out, I know. (As for AT&T: Props to the guy for letting me publish his e-mail address! Hope he knows what he's in for!)





Yet all four carriers promise that they'll read and consider our posts. And we have two things going for us.





First, I have a feeling that the volume of complaints will be too big for them to ignore. To that end, I hope you'll pass these instructions along, blog them, Twitter them, and spread the word. (Gizmodo, Consumerist and others have agreed to help out.) And I hope you'll take the time to complain yourself. Do it now, before you forget.





Second, we'll all be watching. I'll be reporting on the carriers' responses. If they ignore us, we'll shame them. If they respond, we'll celebrate them.

Either way, it's time to rise up. It's time for this crass, time-wasting money-grab to end for good.
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www.sickforprofit.com

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Cell phone numbers go public this month.


Telemarketers can call you on your cell, and you may have to pay for the calls. To block these calls, call the DO NOT CALL REGISTRY at 1-888-382-1222.


You must call from your cell phone.


Drivers to pay more at metered spots
The cost of visiting Chicago — or at least parking there — is about to go up.


Starting next week, the price of metered parking on city streets will climb.
Chicago Parking Meters says that the cost of parking in the Loop will climb
from $3.50 to $4.25 an hour. The price to park outside the Loop but in the
central business district will rise from $2.00 to $2.50 an hour. And parking
everywhere else in the city will be $1.25 an hour instead of the current
$1.00 an hour.



The rates on the meters will be changed throughout January, starting on
Jan. 4 in the Loop. Officials say they plans to change all the rates by the
end of the month, but motorists only have to pay the posted rates.


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Unusual Scholarships


Scholarship for Left-Handed Students
The only scholarship for left-handed students is the Frederick and Mary F. Beckley Scholarship of up to $1,000. This scholarship is awarded to left-handed students who will be attending Juniata College. This scholarship is only available to students who are enrolled at Juniata College.
For more information, write to Office of Student Financial Planning, Juniata College, 1700 Moore Street, Huntington, PA 16652.



Duck Brand Duct Tape Stuck at Prom Contest
The Duck Brand Duct Tape Stuck on Prom Contest is open to students age 14 years or older who are attending a high school prom in the spring. US citizenship is required. Entrants must enter as a couple (two individuals) and attend a high school prom wearing complete attire or accessories made from duct tape. The submission must include a color photograph of the couple together in prom attire.

The first place prize consists of a $2,500 scholarship for each member of the winning couple and a $2,500 cash prize to the school that hosted the prom. Other prizes include $1,000 for second place, $500 for third, and Duck Tape sportswear for honorable mentions. The winning couple will be selected based on a variety of criteria, including originality, workmanship, quantity of Duck Tape used, use of colors, and creative use of accessories.
The Duck Tape contest web site includes photographs of the winning costumes.


Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year (SAMMY) Award
The Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year (SAMMY) Award is open to graduating high school senior scholar athletes. Candidates must demonstrate excellence in academics, athletic performance, leadership and community service. Candidates must also be a resident of one of the 48 contiguous states or the District of Columbia. There will be one scholarship of $7,500 awarded to each of 25 regional winners.
The deadline is in early March.

The whymilk.com web site includes photographs of previous winners with their milk mustaches.


SPAACSE Scholarships
The Society of Performers, Artists, Athletes and Celebrities for Space Exploration, Inc. (SPAACSE) offers two $1,000 scholarships.


•The SPAACSE Galaxy Music Scholarship is available to graduating high school seniors who are pursuing an interest in space music as a means of expressing the beauty and inspiration of the universe. The music submission must be recorded on either a cassette or CD and should be 4-6 minutes in length.
•The SPAACSE Liliane Webb Art Scholarship is open to graduating high school seniors who have an interest in space art. Candidates must provide an original two-dimensional space artwork to be considered for this award. Candidates must also include a 1-2 page description of prior artistic and other school activities and awards.


Students for Organ Donation Youth Leadership Award
The Students for Organ Donation Youth Leadership Award is available to full-time high school or undergraduate college students. One or two $500 to $1,000 scholarships will be awarded.
Candidates must have made a commitment to raising awareness of organ donation and transplantation. Selection is based on effectiveness, leadership, creativity and sustainability of efforts. Applications may be based either on a report of previous events that have successfully raised organ donation awareness, or a detailed and realistic plan to raise donor awareness. (Receipt of the award is contingent upon confirmed execution of the plan.)
The deadline is May 31.



LaFontaine Aquatic Entomology Award
The LaFontaine Aquatic Entomology Award is available to graduate students conducting a research project in aquatic entomology.
The award amount is $500.



Collegiate Inventors Competition
The Collegiate Inventors Competition is open to students who have been enrolled full time in a college or university over the past 12 months. Applicants must submit an original idea, process or technology that will be judged on originality and inventiveness, as well as on its potential value to society (socially, environmentally, and economically), and on its range or scope of use. Up to four students may work together as a team, but only one prize will be awarded per entry.
The grand prize is $50,000 for the student and $10,000 for the advisor.
The web site includes information about the six 2002 winners and streaming video of the 2001 awards ceremony.



Illustrators of the Future Contest
The Illustrators of the Future Contest is open to artists from all nations. An entry consists of three black and white works illustrating a science fiction or fantasy story with no recurring theme. Entries may not have been previously published.
The award is up to $4,000. Additional information can be found on the web site.



Ayn Rand Institute Essay Contests
The Ayn Rand Institute sponsors several essay contests.


•The Anthem Essay Contest is open to high school freshmen and sophomores. It provides annual cash awards for short, original, unpublished essays on the philosophic themes in Ayn Rand's novel, Anthem. The first prize is $2,000. There are three 2nd prizes of $500 and five 3rd prizes of $200. There are a total of 229 awards. The deadline is in mid-March.
•The Fountainhead Essay Contest is open to high school juniors and seniors. It provides annual cash awards for short, original, unpublished essays on the philosophic themes in Ayn Rand's novel, The Fountainhead. The first prize is $10,000. There are five 2nd place prizes of $2,000 and ten 3rd place prizes of $1,000. There are a total of 244 awards. The deadline is in mid-April.
•The Atlas Shrugged Essay Contest is open to all college students. It provides annual cash awards for short, original, unpublished essays on the philosophic themes in Ayn Rand's novel, Atlas Shrugged. The first prize is $5,000. There are three 2nd prizes of $1,000 and five 3rd prizes of $400. There are a total of 49 awards. The deadline is in mid-September.

Essay topics and other information about these contests can be found at www.aynrand.org/contests.
For more information, send email to essays@aynrand.org.



Little People of America Scholarship
The Little People of America (LPA) association offers the LPA Scholarship for members of its organization. LPA is a nonprofit organization that provides information and support to people of short stature and their families. Membership is offered to people who are 4'10" or less in height. The deadline for the LPA Scholarship is April 1.
LPA was founded by Billy Barty, the 3'9" actor who starred in Rumplestiltskin and Willow. The Billy Barty Foundation
also sponsors a scholarship for college students who have a medical form of dwarfism.


Tall Clubs International (TCI) Scholarship
Tall Clubs International (TCI) offers a $1,000 scholarship for tall people, the Kae Sumner Einfeldt Scholarship. Individual chapters may also offer local awards.
Women who are at least 5'10" and men who are at least 6'2" are eligible for the award. Candidates must be under 21 years old and plan to attend college in the fall.



National Make It Yourself with Wool Competition
The National Make It Yourself with Wool (NMIYWW) competition awards $2,000 and $1,000 scholarships for knitting wool garments. Winners are selected based on the appropriateness to the contestant's lifestyle, coordination of fabric/yarn with garment style and design, contestant's presentation, and creativity. For more information send a self-addressed stamped envelope to:
National Make It Yourself with Wool Competition
Box 175
Lavina, MT 59046



David Letterman Telecommunications Scholarship
The David Letterman Scholarship was established by David Letterman in 1985 to provide scholarships for telecommunications students at Ball State University. The awards are intended for average students who nevertheless have a creative mind. Winners are selected primarily based on creativity. Projects may involve a variety of media, including written work, research, audio, video, graphics and film. The winner receives a $10,000 scholarship. The first runner-up receives $5,000. The second runner-up receives $3,333.



Klingon Language Institute Scholarship
The Kor Memorial Scholarship is awarded by the Klingon Language Institute to recognize and encourage scholarship in the field of language study. Familiarity with Klingon or other constructed languages is not required, but creativity is preferred. The $500 award is open to undergraduate and graduate students. Nominations must be submitted by academic department chairs and/or deans. Only one undergraduate student and one graduate student may be nominated by each department chair or dean. The deadline is June 1.
For more information, write to:
Klingon Language Institute
Kor Memorial Scholarship
PO Box 634
Flourtown, PA 19031


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April 2008

Chicago Park District - if you know of anyone interested, please pass on the word.
CPD in desperate need of male and female residents of Chicago who are 16 and older and can pass a drug screen, areable bodied and interested in making $9-$12 an hour this summer.We havea total of 300vacancies forthe positions ofRecreationLeader, Seasonal Attendant and Junior Laborer.

Spread the word. Interested parties can access an application at www.chicagoparkdistrict.com.
_______________

N'Spiration

Inspirational Conversations (c)

www.InspirationalConversations.com

Who reads N'Spirational Conversations?

New!  N'Spirational Conversations Volume2

HOT OFF THE PRESS FOR 2011!

GREAT Gift Ideas!

Give N'Spiration 24/7/365!

Entrepreneurs, Intra-preneurs, Edu-tainment preneurs and Game-preneurs.

They all have something in common.

Finding your God given way to do things in life that can sustain you and your family is a gift.

Entrepreneurship has become of way of life for many due to the devastating effects of the economy. In many countries,

it’s the only way a family survives.

In America we became spoiled because the labor industry was already laid out for us and we didn’t have to think about it.

We simply applied for jobs and worked like everyone else. Well now that we’ve gone from agriculture industry to Technology industry, many of us are lost because we haven’t discovered our Natural God Given Gifts, Talents and Abilities!

For those who don’t know what their natural God given gifts, talents or abilities out, there is hope. Keep in mind, the light you see to help you read was discovered by a man who failed a thousand times. I never thought I could write a book, until someone told me I could. Try this:

His Will.

HisWord.

HisWay.

We respect the religions of the world.

Whatever name you wish to call your

Higher Power, Inner Guide, Spirit, etc. that is your choice.  It is also the choice for us to be ONE

with the ONE!

Be Blessed!

Who reads N'Spirational Conversations?

~~

Special Thanks to (Left to right)

Sporty King, self, Theresa @ Todd Banks

of

Ellacec Publishing for sharing space @

Tribune Literary Fest Chicago!

Be sure and sign up for weekly

N'Spiration & N'Formation Newsletter

Zelda@ZeldaSpeaks.com

Partial Proceeds benefit Haiti!

 2010

CANCER is no longer a death sentence.

My High School girlfriend Karen McDaniels is a cancer survivor! She's walking the walk and talking the talk. If she can survive, you can too!

The following is info I received from a reader I think you can appreciate!

Making the Cancer Connection:

How Networking with a Cancer Survivor Just Might Save Your Life

Joni is also the author of The Cancer Patient W-I-N Book: Our Cancer Fight Journal. Her latest book—Connecting through Compassion: Guidance for Families and Friends of Brain Cancer Patients—will be available September 2010.

For more information, please visit www.jonialdrich.com, www.thecancerlifeline.com, or www.griefbeacon.com.

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To borrow a phrase from the book

N'Spirational Conversations,

"Every now and again, PAIN appears to remind us of an imbalance in our lives, whether it's personal or professional.

In my case, it's both.

Upon completion of editing a project for our TV Show, Higher Learning Network, I went to get up out of my chair, and a sharp pain hit me.  I couldn't figure out for the life of me where it came from.

It heard all night long, and I was limping all day Saturday. It finally dawned on me that I hadn't done anything strenous, so it had to be something mental going on.

As usual, I grabbed one of my metaphysical books, this one by Louise Hay, Celebrate Your Life, and I went to the body section and read about hips.  Of course, I knew immediately what needed to be done. 

So I made a pact with myself, to be better to myself and complete a project that I'd been putting off for sometime.  The minute I made that decision, I noticed my hip felt a whole lot better.(Stretching helped too!)  Now you might think it's crazy, but there are other laws working in this Universe, such as metaphysical laws.

Do yourself a favor and read anything by Lousie Hay, Eric Butterworth, Dr. Johnnie Coleman, and you will begin to understand.

Until next time, ask your pain what is it that it's trying to tell you!  If you dare, share it with me!

Every so often, one of my N'Spirational Conversation Readers will send me a goodie, that I must share with you!  This one comes from a skate buddy everyone calls affectionately, Uncle Frank. 

Enjoy!

  Don't take anything personal today! 

Whatever anyone does is a reflection of them and has nothing to do with you. 

Just marvel at your ability, maintain peace, and continue to be you. 

YES!  

You are a wonderful person deserving compassion as well.  People will try you over and over again.  Stand strong and let them know you're not going their way.

 Let's have a wonderful morning and not allow anyone to disrupt our beautiful day. 

Live long and prosper!

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The older generation will appreciate this!

As soon as I wake up, Will Power helps me get out of bed.


Then I go to see John.

 

Then Charlie Horse comes along,
And when he is here, he takes a lot of my time and attention.
 

When he leaves, Arthur Ritis  shows up and stays the rest of the day.
He doesn't like to stay in one place very long, so he takes me from joint to joint.


After such a busy day, I'm really tired and glad 
To go to bed with Ben Gay.
 
What a life!  
Oh, yes, I'm also flirting with
Al Zymer.

And getting ready to call JACK DANIELS and 
JOHNNY WALKER to come and keep me company.


Now remember: 
Life is like a roll of toilet paper
....the closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes...

 

So have fun, think 'good thoughts' only,  learn to laugh at yourself, and count your blessings!
 



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I'm always inspired when I feel better, but not today!  I read this AFTER I'd eaten an ice cream bar!  (Sometimes you gotta have the real thing! Substitutes only last for so long!)

If you are loading up on pasteurized milk, cheese, ice cream, or yogurt, unfortunately you are also taking in powerful growth hormones, large amounts of dietary cholesterol, allergenic proteins, insecticides, antibiotics, viruses, and bacteria.  Does not sound too appetizing, huh?

Milk was designed with one purpose in mind:  a hormonal delivery system.  Milk is an appropriate food for babies that require critical hormones so that they can grow quickly.  However, cow milk is for baby cows and human breast milk is for humans.  The consumption of cow milk by adults opens up another can of worms.

On November 3, 1993, the FDA approved the use of a growth hormone in cows (rBGH); this approval was one of the most controversial drug applications in FDA history.  The debate was over the effect of the rBGH hormone in humans.

Injections of rBGH in cows causes substantial and sustained increases of IGF-I (Insulin-like Growth Factor-I) in milk.  IGF-I occurs naturally in humans as well as in cows.  Couple the rBGH growth hormone with IGF-I and you have an overgrowth in production of cancerous cells, particularly  breast cancer.  Harvard Medical School analyzed data from 27 countries and found a positive correlation between ovarian cancer and per capita milk consumption.  Even lung cancer has been associated with milk ingestion. 

Ironically, the FDA claims that hormone-treated milk is "not significantly different" from untreated milk, and our US laws do not require that products containing hormone-treated milk be labeled as such.  Perhaps the US is in the dark, because use of the rBGH hormone is not approved in Canada, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and Europe.

Looking for a milk alternative?  Try the following:

Almond milk

Coconut milk

Hemp seed milk

Hazelnut milk

Why not soy milk?

Ann Louise Gittleman, author of
"The Fat Flush Plan", states it best:

Soy is a top food allergen and is often genetically modified.  It can increase hyperactivity, panic attacks, hair loss, adrenal burnout, fatigue, and hypothyroidism.  Because of its effects on the hormonal system, soy has been implicated in fibroid tumors in breast and uterine tissue.

How depressing is that?  If you've got some tips to share with me to help me in my dairy challenge, feel free to email me at Zelda@ZeldaSpeaks.com!

For more info: contact Christy
info@nutritioncoachnetwork.com  
Be sure and tell her Zelda sent you!

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As we celebrate Womens History Month, let us honor those who came before us and paved the way!  It doesn't matter that we don't know them, what matters is that we pass it on!

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 MOREHOUSE WHIZ KID

There's so much good in our youth today, I consider it an  honor to share this good news with you!  Tell all the kids you know to visit this site to encourage them!

Morehouse Whiz Kid is Causing a Stir: 13-Year-Old Dominates College

By Boyce Watkins, PhD 

At thirteen years of age, Stephen Stafford is causing quite a stir at Morehouse College. Stafford has a triple major in pre-med, math and computer science. Though he loves playing video games and playing his drum set, he is no typical teenager.

"I've never taught a student as young as Stephen, and it's been amazing," said computer science professor Sonya Dennis. "He's motivating other students to do better and makes them want to step up their game."

Stafford began his college career at the age of 11, after being home-schooled by his mother. Stafford's mother said that when Stafford began to teach her instead of being taught by her, she knew he needed to be in a college environment.

Now THAT'S what I'm talking about. Stephen Stafford, in my opinion, represents exactly what black men are about: Intelligence, ambition and high academic achievement. This is not to disrespect men in other walks of life, but the truth is that you will never see Stephen Stafford's accomplishments promoted like a rap music video.

We must, as a community, applaud and uphold this young man. We must cheer for him as if he averages 40 points a game. We should converse about his achievements as if he had released a platinum hip-hop album. He should get the same respect as every linebacker, point guard or hip-hop artist in America.

Corporate America will not blow Stephen's trumpet, but I will. I also want all the other Stephen Staffords to make themselves seen. There are hundreds of thousands of Stephen Staffords out there who've been convinced by a culture of thuggery that they should do their best to hide their greatness. Rather than acing math class, they've been taught to measure grams and kilos or to memorize football playbooks that are 100 pages thick. Our young men can analyze the triangle offense in basketball and break down a nickel defense, but then become mentally deficient when it comes to doing algebra, science and social studies. The time for mediocrity is over, since education is the key to making your dreams come true. Sports only creates more nightmares.

Stephen will make more money than all of his athletic friends, because education produces economic empowerment. He will also have more personal freedom and professional fulfillment. He will live the black American dream, and I encourage all of you to make your own sons into the next Stephen Stafford.

The recipe for our kids is simple:

1) Spend as much time studying as you spend playing sports or working at fast food restaurant jobs.
2) Don't let anyone convince you that you can't achieve whatever you put your mind to.

Just by studying 4 to 5 hours per day (less than the number of hours they would put in to working a minimum wage job), almost any child in America can get a college degree and become a doctor, lawyer or whatever they want. It's actually just a matter of doing it. I've taught college for 16 years, and I can tell you that the term "college material" needs to be abolished. Every child is college material if they want to be. That's the truth.

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"If you work hard on your job, you can make a living... But, if you work hard on yourself, you can make a fortune." Create you own rescue plan!'

Jim Rohn

Four years after that, she got another letter, saying that while things

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It's very inspirational to know that you can make a difference.  After you see these photos, you'll know just how blessed you truly are.

If you have a warm safe place to sleep, water to drink and someone to love you, then you are truly blessed!

After you take a look at these photos, please share them with someone, then DONATE, even if it's only a dollar!  Please donate more if you can!

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Happy New Year! Happy New You!

Happy New Yang!

You are the answer!

You have all the answers.

You just sometimes can't get quiet long enough to hear the answers!

This next piece was sent to me, and of course, all good things we must share! Enjoy!

  1. Maybe . . . we were supposed to meet the wrong people before meeting the right one so that, when we finally meet the right person, we will know how to be grateful for that gift.

2. Maybe . . . when the door of happiness closes, another opens; but, often times, we look so long at the closed door that we don't even see the new one which has been opened for us.

3. Maybe . . it is true that we don't know what we have until we lose it, but it is also true that we don't know what we have been missing until it arrives.

4. Maybe . . . the happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything that comes along their way.

5. Maybe . . the brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past; after all, you can't go on successfully in life until you let go of your past mistakes, failures and heartaches.

6. Maybe . .. you should dream what you want to dream; go where you want to go, be what you want to be, because you have only one life and one chance to do all the things you dream of, and want to do.

7. Maybe . . there are moments in life when you miss someone -- a parent, a spouse, a friend, a child -- so much that you just want to pick them from your dreams and hug them for real, so that once they are around you appreciate them more.

8. Maybe . . the best kind of friend is the kind you can sit on a porch and swing with, never say a word, and then walk away feeling like it was the best conversation you've ever had.

9. Maybe . . . you should always try to put yourself in others' shoes. If you feel that something could hurt you, it probably will hurt the other person, too.

10. Maybe . . you should do something nice for someone every single day, even if it is simply to leave them alone.

11. Maybe . . giving someone all your love is never an assurance that they will love you back. Don't expect love in return; just wait for it to grow in their heart; but, if it doesn't, be content that it grew in yours.

12. Maybe . . happiness waits for all those who cry, all those who hurt, all those who have searched, and all those who have tried, for only they can appreciate the importance of all the people who have touched their lives.

13. Maybe . . you shouldn't go for looks; they can deceive; don't go for wealth; even that fades away. Go for someone who makes you smile, because it takes only a smile to make a dark day seem bright. Find the one that makes your heart smile.

14. Maybe . . .. you should hope for enough happiness to make you sweet, enough trials to make you strong, enough sorrow to keep you human, and enough hope to make you happy

Maybe . . . you could share this message to those people who mean something to you, to those who have touched your life, to those who can and do make you smile when you really need it, to those who make you see the brighter side of things when you are really down, and to all those whom you want to know that you appreciate them and their friendship.
 

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Our First Inspiration probably came from our parents, especially Mom!

A reader sent it to me, and you know I can't keep good things to myself!

Enjoy!

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A Page A Day, Keeps Your Sanity At Bay!

There's nothing more inspirational than being able to take care of yourself in a tight spot!

Enjoy!

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Graduation is a very happy time in life, except when  you're forced to look at the realization that there may not be a job for you if your major is anything in the media.  As we teach today's youth behind-the-scenes media production, we also emphasize the reality that you may have to learn how to transfer your current skills to another position.  The following article says it all.  Enjoy!

Conference stresses professional diversity

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ITEX cares; safety tips for you, your families and your employees ~

Emergency Car supplies:

Be prepared in case you are stuck in your car for an extended period:

Prepare for everyday family car emergencies. Most people carry the basic auto items (oil, flares, jumper cables, etc), but emergency boxes will be for helpful; incase of inclement weather emergencies. Fill a couple of sweater-sized plastic containers to keep in the trunk of the car with useful everyday emergency items that could help in an otherwise uncomfortable situation. Look over the lists below and decide which items relate to your particular commute,

Also it’s a good idea to keep your gas tank above ½ full in inclement weather. Traffic is worse and commutes take longer.

Emergency Supplies in Case of being Stuck or Lost in the Auto

Emergency heat-preserving silver blankets (comes in a small pack at a camping store)

Food, like food bars, nuts, crackers and peanut butter

Three day supply of water per person(rotate to stay fresh)

A mirror (for signaling for help) matches and flint , duct tape, rope

Instant hand-warming packets (comes in a small pack at a camping store)

Flashing emergency light, small crank-operated radio. Flashlight and extra batteries

A pad of paper and pencils in case you need to leave a stranded car and people are searching for you

Weather appropriate shoes, especial for those that wear dress shoes to the office

Gallon-sized seal-able plastic bags (for a million reasons)

One pair of socks and underclothing for each family member

A good quality pocket knife

A pack of baby wipes for spills and sanitizing gel

First Aid Supplies to

A basic first aid kit for minor cuts, etc.

Pain relievers

Spares of prescription or often-used over-the-counter medications (like allergy pills)

For Women and Teen Girls

Spare makeup

Feminine needs

For Babies and Infants

Formula mix and/or baby food

Diapers and Wipes

A couple very small but engaging toys

All these things should be compact and organized into the two boxes. Much more than that will take up a lot of car space. The plastic boxes will keep items fresh, clean and dry. If there is room, a couple thin backpacks are also nice to carry in case one has to walk for help.

Karen L. Kelly

President

Confident Currency Inc. ITEX in Chicagoland

www.itex.com - The Other Kind of Money!

o:  847.755.3000 /c:  847.530.5535 /f:  847.589.5333 (corp. office 630.261.7040)

Advertise for FREE!

There is no better way to reach the entire ITEX  community than posting your Ad in the "ITEX Hotline" our national email blast ~ Offers must be 100% ITEX ~

Simply write a brief description of your product or service, include your contact info, send it to hotline@itex.com .

You Can't Buy Exposure Like this!

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There's nothing more inspirational than forgiving.

My heartfelt sympathies goes out to my collegue Garrad McClendon (CLTV) in the loss/transformation of his parents who were killed last week.  I just don't know if I could be as forgiving. 

It's something I teach, and try to practice as well.  But when it's your parents, it's the biggest test of life!  My parents made their transistion before I was a teenager.  I don't have a clue of what it's like to feel that pain in particular, but I do know what it's like to feel pain.

It takes a while to heal pain.  The pain of writing about the truth is something I am still learning to deal with.  I've been contemplating writing another book on the challenges of forgiving, but just can't seem to shake the demons that keep me from moving forward.

We all experience pain and death, but we must move beyond the pain, and seek the lesson in living.

Death is always a blessing, (for someone) whether we realize it or not. 

Death always makes us take a deeper look.

Death makes us see, say and do things that we would not ordinarily do. 

Death waits on no one, so don't take death for granted. 

Don't take life for granted either.   One day, we will all meet our maker.  Hopefully we will have done the work we were put on this work to do, so our maker can say, Well done!

There's nothing more powerful, than working daily on something that gives your life meaning.

Don't let DEATH (of ideas of life) steal or stop your joy!

Time to get busy!

Stay on purpose, stay empowered!

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When you know better, you have the opportunity to do better. Here's another site you need be aware of, if you are doing or planning to do any thing (business-wise) on-line.

http://creativecommons.org/

Above is the home page, below is the section about creative use of others works without getting prosecuted/sued etc.

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/

be safe, be aware, be prepared.

from Uncle Bob

an Inspirational Conversations Lifetime Member

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As an organization that specializes in self empowerment with an emphasis on developement, it brings us joy to show what happens behind the scenes.  Nothing more important than what goes on in the oval office!  Enjoy!

www.flickr.com/photos/whitehouse/show/

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I'm always inspired when I find money for our youth to attend college.  Many of my readers know that I was too busy playing cards to graduate on time, so I learned a lot about where to find funding.  It's become a habit now,  my radar is always on.  Good thing for you if you know any student who needs funding.  Be sure and spread the good news. 

Forward this website to your friends, family and foes!  You never know who'll become a friend!

Enjoy!