Quotes of the Day...

"I never thought of losing, but now that it's happened, the only thing is to do it right. That's my obligation to all the people who believe in me. We all have to take defeats in life." - Muhammad Ali

"Racism is not an excuse to not do the best you can." - Arthur Ashe

submitted by Joaquin M. Turley, Jr.

Let's Talk About It...10 Year Old Boy on Eliminating the "N" Word

Jonathan McCoy, a 10 year old, lets us know why the use of the N word is inappropriate.

First, I would like to say that it makes me proud to hear our youth get up and voice their opinion in such an educated and eloquent way. McCoy's speech was filled with the intelligence of someone many years ahead of him.

During his speech, he points out that the N word was used towards blacks to indicate that we were economically, politically, or socially disenfranchised, instead of the kings and queens that we are. He points out that the terms has no significance as you can see that there are so many successful blacks that are surely not economically, politically, or socially disenfranchised, and then states, "so who you calling the N word?". He goes on further to say that this misrepresentation of our race has been perpetuated by our own people, and adapted as a cultural thing.

McCoy wants to get the message across that people that knowingly or ignorantly use the N word need to delete the word out of their vocabulary, and stop using a word that clearly doesn't apply to our people. Watch the tape to hear more of his argument.

The N word is a word that is constantly up for debate. Jay Z and Oprah argued recently on how they viewed the word, Jay saying it was a term of endearment, and Oprah saying it should not be used because of the negativity that was once tied to it. Although I use the word sometimes, I am trying hard to eliminate it from my vocabulary. Being called nigger before has helped me to understand the strong feelings our older generations have against the word. I also hate hearing young people on the corners of Harlem throwing the word around every other word. It sounds like they lack intelligence and it honestly hurts my ears. I get even more outraged when I hear Puerto Ricans using it as if they have some how been deemed black. All this goes to say, I agree with McCoy!

How do you feel about McCoy's speech? With all of the racism that is coming out, especially towards Obama, do you think that word should be deleted from our vocabulary?

Let's Talk About It...Obama is the Joker?

A large banner of Obama as the joker, with the word socialism, was displayed outside of Club Velvet, a gentleman's club in Richmond. This banner has the NAACP outraged and they believe that it is racist, other's disagree. The owner of the club released a statement saying, "Anyone who believes this banner is racist is an ignoramus. And just because he is part black doesn't mean he can't be criticized." Other's say that the sign indicates that the Obama administration is a joke.

No, what this indicates is that the person that put the sign up is an ignoramus. It is totally okay to voice your opinion and criticize the current president, but if you think that it isn't a hint of racism behind that sign, you're crazy. But lets just say it isn't, is Obama really a joke, or is this country as a whole? I think we are hardly headed towards socialism because we want health care options for everyone. I guarantee you that capitalism will remain in the United States, even if everyone is able to go get a regular check up at the doctors. Here are my issues with this country and why it apears as a joke sometimes:

1. You are denying that you can't stand that we have a black president. Who are you fooling...yourselves?

2. You don't want everyone to have health care? You are so selfish, that money for companies is more important than keeping people healthy.

3. You have a president that seems to care about Americans as a whole, and you call him Hitler and the Joker?

4. You bailout the financial insitutions, after it was their greedy acts that possibly caused our economy to be in the state that it is, and the word SOCIALISM isn't thrown out there when the government has to get involved with the rich? Yeah let's provide all of the rich with more money.....and call it socialism when the government wants to get involved with health care.

Now take the banner of my president down and hang some other things up that are more of a joke.

What do you think about the banner? Is it racist? Are we headed towards socialism?

Keeping Up Daily...Top Stories to Help Us Keep Up

Brining you the morning news...fastest way to "Keep UP"!

An earthquake in the South Pacific caused a great tsunami at the shores of Samoa and American Samoa, destroying villages, and leaving at least 99 dead and dozens missing. Another earthquake hit in Western Indonesia, bringing down houses, cutting electricity, and causing several injuries. More on world news, the U.S. government has become frustrated with China, as it shows hesitation to stand with the U.S. against Iran after disclosures about it's nuclear program, because Iran is its top oil suppliers and a major beneficiary of its energy-related investments. Looks like China is distracted by what brings them money, just like millions of Americans are distracted by their cellphones. A recent report showed that last year nearly 6,000 people were killed and a half-million injured in auto accidents due to drivers being distracted, especially by cell phones. Speaking of cars, Toyota plans to recall 3.8 million cars to address a problem with a removal floor mat that could cause accelerators to get stuck and lead to a crash.

Tuesday a Senate panel voted down a government-run insurance option, countering that the proposal would be the demise of the private insurance industry and result in a system that is completely run by the government. More on the government, President Barack Obama plans to announce $5 billion in grants, that will come from the Recovery Act funds, which is aimed at supporting 12,000 critical research projects, and thousands of jobs associated with them. Looks like the average person doesn't have to do that much research lately, especially with all of these iPhone apps that practely help you do everything. One iPhone application allows you to track sex offenders who live within a 10-mile radius, and has already been downloaded by over a half a million people. Speaking of people, 4,000 U.S. troops are expected to be withdrawn from Iraq in October, and U.S. Gen. Ray Odierno plans to tell House panel Wednesday that violence has dropped in Iraq. President Obama has said that U.S. combat troops would leave in August 2010.

An Air Force jet that disappeared in 1955, with two crewsmen, was found in Pacific Ocean near Los Angeles, while searchers were looking for for World War II-era plane. What an interesting find. I wonder what great items you will be able to find on Wal-Mart's list of 100 toys for $10? Wal-Mart hopes to jump-start holiday sales by offering the list of 100 toys for that cheap. Well, Wal-Mart and other stores are going to need to lower their prices as jobs continue to get cut. Private-sector firms in the United States cut 254,000 jobs in September.

I am so happy that the troops in Iraq will be coming home soon; it's about time. I am still confused on why we were there in the first place. Can someone enlighten me on what we have accomplished?

My heart also goes out to the countries that are experiencing earthquakes and I pray that no more lives are lost.

That i-phone application seems pretty creepy, but I am sure it is making moms feel safer about their kids going out to play. Ok, so now all iPhone needs to do is come out with applications that can cook, sleep, and work for you...and iPhone has invented a robot...(kind of scary isn't it?)

I am wondering if we will ever be able to pass this health care bill. I know that they have to make sure that it is perfect, and that both sides are comfortable, but I am starting to think that Republicans will make the Democrats compromise so much, that the health care system will damn near be the same as it is today.

Toyota let's just pray that out of those 3.8 million people, that no one gets hurt as they return the cars back to you. Do better and more careful research please.

Wal-Mart I heard that a lot of stores will be lowering there prices also. This is going to be a great season of bargaining shopping. We will all surely be able to Keep Up!

What did you think about today's news?

-Keep Up!

What's Happening...Black's Happening!

Bringing you positive Black news...the fastest way to "Keep Up"!

(photo taken from Essence.com)

Actor Derek Luke is making his way to television, where he will be starring as paramedic Cameron Boone in NBC's new medical drama, "Trauma." Luke made his big screen debut in the film "Antwone Fisher." a few years back. Recently, he portrayed Sean "Diddy" Combs in the biopic "Notorious." Speaking of "Notorious", late rapper Tupac Shakur's mother, Afeni Shakur, has donated a collection of his writings to the Robert W. Wooddruff Library at Atlanta University Center, that included rough drafts of his lyrics, poems, and even a photocopy of his contract with Suge Knight and Death Row Records were given. Now that we mention a university, Hampton University will be hosting a marriage summit Tuesday in Virginia, to discuss the state of marriage and talk about how to reverse trends such as high divorce rates and out-of-wedlock births.


50 Cent's latest project, The 50th Law book, 50's strategic advice book on life and how to become successful, debuted in the top tier of the New York Times' best-sellers list last week. Talk about a list, THE UK’s 100 most powerful people of African and Caribbean heritage are unveiled this week in the second annual edition of The Powerlist: Britain’s 100 Most Influential Black People, with Baroness Scotland as number one. I wonder which MBA students will make this next list? Chrysler Group LLC hosts unique annual event that enables MBA candidates from 22 of the nation's leading business schools to compete for scholarships. Finally, Nick Cannon has been named Chairman of TV Network TeenNick!



-Keep Up!

Let's Talk About It...Is All Fair In Love and War? The Battle Between Black Women

(photo taken from gossiponthis.com of Swizz and family)

I know by now many of you have read Mashonda's, Swizz Beatz ex-wife to be, open letter to Alicia Keys, who allegedly had an affair with Swizz. The letter was sparked after comments on Alicia Keys twitter page. The singer wrote: "Having a heated debate n the studio. Question is ... N love is it better to go 4 the choice that is 'SMART' or the choice that has 'SPARK'??"

If you haven't read the letter, it talks about how Mashonda felt about the affair between her husband and Keys, and how it has effected her family. This letter immediately reminded me of the constant battle in the African American community between women. In our attempt to find a "great" black man, how far will we go?

Mashonda says the following about Keys:

My concern with AK is no longer the fact that she assisted in destroying a family but that she has the audacity to make these selfish comments about love and wanting to be with someone, even after knowing their situation. How is this the same Superwoman that I sang out loud with in my truck? I ask myself sometimes.

After reading the entire letter, the Superwoman part hit hard. It reminds me of how strong black women have to be, despite the struggles we face in our community. It reminds me of how so many black women have been cheated on and have gone through so much pain. We have to deal with embarrassment, diseases, becoming a single parent, and more. The troubling part is, that no matter how much pain we have been through, black women still don't mind doing it to another woman.

I don't know the inside story of what actually happened between Keys, Swizz, and Mashonda, so I am not judging their situation or the people in it. However, I do have a problem with us as black women feeling like it is okay to sleep with a man who is currently in a relationship. It is so convenient to ignore the feelings of the other woman, and simply brush it off as, "I like him too." I wonder if for a moment women would picture themselves on the side of the woman being cheated on. Are we so selfish that their pain means nothing to us? Are we in a constant battle to win; is it all fair in love and war? Is it fair to say, may the best woman win?

The funny thing is that we blame the black man for the constant cheating that goes on in our community, and for the most part they are to blame. But we must realize that men can't cheat if they are not allowed to. I am aware that many times men lie about their current situations, but when they tell you the truth, it is your responsibility to back off. If you really want to be with this guy, he needs to end his current relationship first, not after you already have sex.

As black women we need to stick together, and stop hurting one another. It is never appropriate to sleep around with someone else's man. Treat others the way you would like to be treated. Plus once Karma comes around, she bites hard. Then what black woman will you lean on when your pain comes around?

-Keep Up!

Click here to read more of the open letter.

Keeping Up Tip of the Day...Got Milk?

There is a constant struggle for Americans to stay healthy, but especially in the black community. A large part of why we struggle is due to the lack of education on the right approaches to keeping our bodies healthy, and making sure we are taking in the right vitamins and nutrients we need. One major source of these vitamins and nutrients are found in dairy products, but a lot of women in our community either eliminate dairy from their diets or are lactose intolerant. A recent survey on this particular area of concern, found the following:

-78% of African American women reduce the amount of milk or dairy in their diet as a way to manage their lactose intolerance

-Yet, 48% of African American women who have lactose intolerance worry that the condition keeps them from consuming important nutrients.

-Despite their concerns, only 16% have talked to a health care professional about it.

What these women don't know is that Lactose doesn't mean consumers have to forego dairy, and miss out on their favorite meals.

Celebrity Chef Delilah Winder has started a campaign to help educate the Black community about Lactose Intolerance and how avoiding milk and dairy can negatively impact our health.

Here are a few tips that the Chef offers:

1. In addition to a mouth-watering taste, Soul Food can be rich in vitamins and nutrients such as collards, mustards, nuts, corn, black eyed peas, watermelon, fresh herb, pecans and peanuts in order to get your fair share of vitamins and nutrients in your diet.

2. Milk is an excellent source of calcium in the diet. So don't cut milk and diary products from your diet to avoid side effects of lactose intolerance. As an alternative, try lactose-free products such as Lactaid Milk.

Click here to find more tips, products, and facts that can help you.

-Keep Up!

Quotes of the Day...

“I've missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I've been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.” -Michael Jordan

"Just play. Have fun. Enjoy the game.” -Michael Jordon

Keeping Up is Knowing Your History: Chuck Cooper

Today, in 1926, Chuck Cooper, the first African American to get drafted by a National Basketball Association team, was born. On April 25, 1950 Cooper broke the color barrier in the NBA when he was drafted by the Boston Celtics. It's hard to imagine the game of professional basketball not being played by African Americans, when today it is largely dominated by them. I am glad that the barriers were finally broken; the game just would not be the same without the great African American players today.

Cooper was among three men that all satisfied themselves as being the first African American man in NBA history.

- Cooper was the first black player to be drafted by a NBA team, in 1950

- Nat "Sweetwater" Clifton was the first black player to sign a contract with an NBA team

- Earl Lloyd was the first black to play in an NBA game, as his team started its season one day before Cooper's and four days before Clifton's.

Keeping Up would like to say Happy Birthday Chuck Cooper and thank you gentlemen for paving the way for many more African American ball players to come.

(Sources: African American Registry, Hoopedia)

Keeping Up Daily...Top Stories to Help Us Keep Up

Bringing you the morning news...fastest way to "Keep Up"!

President Barack Obama promotes Chicago's bid for the 2016 Olympics alongside Olympic fencer Tim Morehouse (photo taken from Gordon Farquhar blog)

After hitting the Philippines hard, Typhoon Ketsana makes its way to the Vietnam, killing at least 23 people as it brought flooding and winds of up to 90 mph. More on world news, American, European, and Israeli spies disagree on if Iran is designing warheads, going against last week when President Barack Obama stood with the leaders of Britain and France to denounce Iran's construction of a secret plant. Speaking of weapons, Afghan immigrant accused of plotting to turn common chemicals into explosives Najibullah Zazi, is to be arraigned in a Brooklyn courtroom on charges he conspired to use weapons of mass destruction.

Three teens arrested in Albert's death; Silvanus Shannon, 19; Eric Carson, 16; and Eugene Riley, 18, were seen on videotape attacking 16-year-old honor student Derrion Albert in Chicago, and were charged with first degree murder and held without bail. Speaking of criminals, cybercriminals are becoming more craftier, and you need to pay attention to where your information is going, like watching who you give your social security number to, reading privacy policies, and be cautious on how much you tell about yourself on social networks. More on criminals, Police in Connecticut have taken Heather Brown into custody, because she is suspected of robbing at least six banks in the past week by saying she has a bomb on her. I wonder how much money she got away with? Well in this next story, Mexican and Colombian officials working with U.S. agents have seized about $41 million in cash hidden in shipping containers, along a drug trade route.

Michelle Obama joins forces with husband in bid to get the 2016 Olympics to be held in Chicago, and jokingly warned first lady of Brazil "gloves are off" in quest to land Games. While Chicago is looking to win the Olympic bid, Starbucks is looking to take a slice of the $21 billion global instant-coffee market, by launching an instant brew on Tuesday. Dell has also launched a new product. Dell unveiled its latest high-end, ultra-thin personal computer, Latitude Z, calling it the world's thinnest and lightest 16-inch laptop, at 4.5 pounds and less than one inch thick.


-Keep Up!

Let's Talk About It...Facebook Poll on Obama, "Should Obama be Killed?"

Recently, Facebook was asked to take down a poll that asked, "Should Obama be Killed?" , where at least 700 plus people have already participated. Facebook did not create this poll; one of it's users did. However, Facebook is taking the matter very seriously. Secret Service is also investigating.

Last week I wrote an article about the racism that has been tied in the attacks towards Obama, and I am guessing people would argue that this attack isn't racist either. Who does this? If this has everything to do with health care reform, then were other president's who introduced a cry for a change in our health care system attacked in this same manner? I strongly believe that people are "showing their true colors", and are really taking the attacks towards Obama too far. I can bet that this is racially motivated. I know I know...I am jumping to conclusions, because the user that created this poll could very well be black, but I can bet money that they are not.

Take a look at the poll below. How do you feel about this poll?

What's Happening...Black's Happening!

Bringing you positive black news....fastest way to "Keep Up"!

President Barack Obama resumed his push towards health care reform at the Congressional Black Caucus conference this Saturday, telling the audience, "we can not wait any longer." Speaking of health, Actress Kerry Washington becomes spokeswoman for Color of Hope, raising awareness for Ovarian Cancer. Looks like a lot of celebrities are taking on major causes. Actor Blair Underwood opens the AHF Blair Underwood Health Care Center to offer hundreds free HIV/AIDS Care. Good work Underwood, and good work Bennett College.

Bennett College for Women is growing despite the bad economy, as they saw its accreditation reaffirmed, posted a record enrollment of more than 700 students and boasted $1 million in alumni donations this year. Good luck to continuous growth Bennett, and good luck to the researches putting in work to find the bodies of two great African Americans in history. In the 1900s, Butler and Mary Wilson were buried in Boston's historic Forest Hills Cemetery, but no one knows where they were buried. Researchers are looking through hundreds of records, and hope to find their location, so that people are able to locate their graves and learn about their history. The two of them helped black World War I servicemen, fought discrimination against African Americans and oversaw the creation of the Boston NAACP chapter. I urge you to go do more research on this couple, just like black leaders urged Blacks to go green at the Congressional Black Caucus convention, through forums such as,“Black & Green: American-American Leadership in Building an Inclusive Clean-Energy Economy,” one of several green economy workshops at the 39th Annual Legislative Conference of the CBCF.

-Keep Up!

Tip of the Day: Networking Follow-Up Email

(photo taken from Referrals Unlimited Network)

The "Keeping Up" Tip of the day gives us a few tips on what to put in a follow-up email after exchanging business cards with someone at a networking event. It is very important that you follow-up with people that you meet, especially if they can help you in your professional career. If someone gives you their business card, they want you to contact them. It is extremely important that you contact someone you have met within 3 days after meeting them. You never know what opportunities can come out of your follow-up. Below are a few tips that you can include in your follow-up email:

• Include the name of the event in the subject line


• If it was a professional contact, start email off with dear, and end with sincerely


• Make sure to say "nice to meet you" or "I enjoyed meeting you"


• Bring up something you discussed the day of the event


• Ask for a chance to possibly meet up with the person face to face


• Include contact information


• Keep it short and to the point!

-Keep UP!

Quotes of the Day....

"The most potent weapon in the hands of the oppressor is the mind of the oppressed." -Steven Biko

"The past is a ghost, the future a dream. All we ever have is now." - Bill Cosby

"Greatness occurs when your children love you, when your critics respect you and when you have peace of mind." - Quincy Jones

Keeping Up is Knowing Your History: Opelousas Massacre

Today, in 1868, the Opelousas massacre occurred. This awful massacre occurred in St. Landry Parish Louisiana where local blacks were killed by violent whites. The massacre started when three local whites beat up an 18-year old man named Emerson Bently, a white editor of the local Republican newspaper and a teacher with the Freedmen's Bureau. Local blacks came to his rescue, were arrested, taken to jail and hung that night. I the next few days, armed whites went on a "Negro hunt", killing an estimated 200 blacks.


(sources: African American Registry)

Keeping Up Daily...Top Stories to Help Us Keep Up

Bringing you the morning news...fastest way to "Keep Up"!

New York Gov. Paterson appears on NBC's "Meet the Press" (photo taken from NYDailyNews.com)

Iran has test-fired one of the longest-range missiles in Tehran's arsenal, capable of striking Isreal and U.S. Mideast bases and parts of Europe. More on world news, Tropical Storm Ketsena has flooded northern Philippines, leaving thousands without water, food, power, and over 100 people dead. This is devastating and this next story might be devastating to hundreds of kids. President Barack Obama wants schools to add time to classes, to stay open late and to let kids in on weekends so they have a safe place to go, because the lack of hours they currently do have put them at a disadvantage with other students around the globe. While school days might be longer, so is the list of applications for Social Security. The recession hit and many older workers found themselves laid off with no place to turn but Social Security, increasing the amount of early retirement claims, forcing Social Security to pay out more in benefits than it collects in taxes the next two years.


French authorities show support to filmmaker Roman Polanski's family, after he was arrested on a 1970 sexual-offense charge evolving 13-year old girl. Former President Bill Clinton says the lack of support and attacks on President Barack Obama is not good for the country, and argues that the "vast right-wing conspiracy" that attacked him during his presidency has been weakened, but continues to operate against President Obama. Limited cargo traffic continues to flow today, after auxiliary lock, used to relieve blocked river traffic, broke Sunday morning, in the Ohio River, stopping barge traffic for several hours. Well, New York Governor David Patterson is not letting the White House break him and force him not to run in the next election, after it's been reported that the White House urged him not to run for re-election in 2010, due to his approval ratings being below 20 percent.


The Baseball World Cup was big news in Cuba, regardless of the U.S. beating Cuba 10-5. The news of the win got overshadowed in the U.S. due to the coverage of Major League baseball, professional football, or other sports stories that developed on Sunday. Well, Xerox has big news also. Xerox announced a $6.4 billion cash-and-stock deal Monday to acquire Affiliated Computer Services in a move that will triple Xerox’s services revenue.



-Keep Up!

What's Happening...Black's Happening!

Bringing you positive black news...fastest way to Keep Up!

(photo taken from http://www.seattlepi.com/)

Floyd Mayweather's victory over Juan Manuel Marquez last weekend generated an impressive 1 million pay-per-view buys, and now is becoming pay-per-view king. That is an A+ in my book, and a new study found the the NFL has improved its hiring practices to increase diversity, earning an A- for racial hiring practices. Keep up the good work NFL. Good work always pays off, and it show in this next story. E. Lynn Harris rocked the literacy world before his death in July. Now September 25 has been declared 'E. Lynn Harris Day,' where friends, colleagues and noted authors will gather to read excerpts from his latest novel, 'Mama Dearest,' and share some of their fondest memories of the best-selling author.

Thursday afternoon true MJ fans waited in line for nearly two-and-a-half days for advance tickets to "Michael Jackson's 'This is It'" concert documentary. I wonder how many people will be lined up for this item from this next icon? The rocking chair Dr. King enjoyed extensively, particularly while writing his seminal 1967 book, Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community?, will be at the 20th Century Icons auction at the Heritage Auction Galleries in Dallas.

Scientists working for a nonprofit research and development organization have just produced a safer and cheaper drug for African countries where 60 million people are at risk from the deadly bite of the tsetse fly. Speaking of health, antiabortion black ministers plan to endorse Obama's health care plan, that reinforces the president's assertion that taxpayer dollars won't pay for abortions. Speaking of dollars, at the Clinton Global Initiative, Chairman and Founder of UNL, Usher Raymond, pledged $1 million to Powered By Service to support young people as they address the world's most pressing problems through innovative service projects.

-Keep Up and Stay Positive!

HBCU's Helping Future Entrepreneurs Keep Up!

More than ever our generation is being encouraged to step out and become entrepreneurs. They are encouraging us to be innovative and create the next "it". When you think of universities that prepare you the most for business and gives you the proper skills needed to create your own business venture, what schools come to mind?

As young African Americans preparing to take the world by storm with our wonderful business ideas, you might be surprised to know which Universities actually make the list of great Universities that can prepare you to do just that. Entrepreneur Magazine list 10 institutions of higher education that are collaborating with their communities to spread the small-business bug.

For all of you that think Historically Black College and Universities can't prepare you for the real world as well as other universities, well, HOWARD UNIVERSITY made the list. Find out what they had to say:

Each year at orientation, all 1,700 freshmen participate in an entrepreneurial boot camp that emphasizes how entrepreneurship has benefited the black community. Howard also offers no-fee business coaching and the GADGET Center, which offers resources and mentoring for businesses in the university’s main commercial district, Georgia Avenue.

Howard University has promoted entrepreneurship so heavily that it has small-business hopefuls waiting in line. Every other Friday, the Institute for Entrepreneurship, Leadership and Innovation hosts Black Marketplace, where entrepreneurs market their products or services to the campus and community--and there’s a long waiting list for the roughly 12 spots. Students sell everything from jewelry to business coaching. “Students can apply theoretic learning to real-life business situations,” says Johnetta Hardy, director of the institute.

Click here to read more of the story and find out what other universities made the list.

Pass this article on so that other people can know the great job HBCU's are doing to prepare their students for the future. (Don't forget the young ones that are still trying to decide which University to attend)

Friday's Top Ways to Keep Up...Know Your Status

Written by Catherine C. Powell

"Safe sex is great sex, better wear a latex / Cause you don't want that late text / That 'I think I'm late,' text." What Lil Wayne failed to mention in the Lollipop remix is that you also don't want the phone call asking you to come in to the clinic or hospital because they have news that cannot be shared with you over the phone. You don't want to find out that you tested positive for HIV, or that a past or current sex partner has been diagnosed as HIV positive and listed you as a recent sexual partner.

In St. Louis County, Missouri Orlando Hadley has been charged with six counts of infecting another person with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. Hadley failed to inform a woman that he was HIV positive, and the woman later tested positive for HIV. What would possess someone to ignore the implications of a serious health risk, and infect others without thinking twice? As some older adults would say, "the world is going to hell in a handbasket." Stories such as this do not make headlines too often, but who is to say that similar cases aren't occurring frequently? That is why it is important to not only know your status, but to know the status and sexual history of those you are sexually intimate with. Only you know the ins and outs of what affects your physical health, such as who you sleep with, the food you intake, the exercise you do or do not participate in, and only you know when something just doesn't "feel right" about your body.

In 2007 African Americans accounted for 51% of HIV/AIDS diagnoses, and the largest amount HIV/AIDS diagnoses among adolescents and adults were among men who have sex with men. From 2004 to 2007, HIV diagnoses have increased 15%. Do not become an HIV/AIDS statistic!
Here are a few tips on protecting yourself:

Get tested - KNOW YOUR STATUS! You don't want to risk infecting others, or not detecting the HIV virus soon enough. When getting an HIV test you are also tested for other STDs. Get tested with a friend if you are nervous, and there are clinics that will test you anonymously. Ignorance is not bliss. You can be infected and NOT realize it!

Ask questions - Have you ever had an STD? When was the last time you were tested for HIV and other STDs? Have you ever been sexually active with another man? Have you ever used drugs and when doing so used needles or syringes? Do NOT be afraid to ask questions, it is foolish to believe that people will offer such information willingly. If they beat around the bush or get upset those are red flags.

Use protection - Use regular condoms or female condoms or a dental dam. Spermicide does NOT protect against HIV. Do not share needles or syringes.

Stand by your decision/beliefs - Do not allow yourself to be rushed into having sex with someone. If you are abstaining from sex until marriage, continue to do so. Sex isn't going anywhere, and you have a few less things to worry about. It never hurt anybody to keep their legs closed.

Trust your instincts - Sometimes you get the feeling or thought that you should not be doing something, or something is off about someone. Trust that feeling or thought.

BE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR HEALTH!

Do you or someone you know have HIV? How has it affected your life, or theirs? Have you been tested? Share your experience!

For information go to http://www.cdc.gov/.

*Please note: HIV/AIDS is not an airborne virus. HIV does not survive well in the environment and the risk of transmission is virtually zero. HIV is transmitted in the following ways: sharing needles and/or syringes with someone who is infected; through birth, blood, transfusions of infected blood, semen, vaginal fluid, breast milk, an open cut, or a mucous membrane (eyes or inside nose). You cannot be infected with HIV through saliva, water, or insects such as mosquito's. Use precautions, such as gloves, when coming in contact with fluids that could contain infected blood, urine, feces, or vomit.

Quotes of the Day...

"Guessing what the pitcher is going to throw is eighty percent of being a successful hitter. The other twenty percent is just execution." -Hank Aaron

"There is a way to look at the past. Don't hide from it. It will not catch you if you don't repeat it." -Pearl Bailey

Keeping Up is Knowing Your History: "The Blood of Jesus"

Today, in 1991, "The Blood of Jesus" was chosen as one of 25 films added to the Library of Congress's National Film Registry. The director of this film was a black man name Spencer William. His 1941 movie is about an atheist who shoots his Baptist wife by mistake. She dies and goes to an afterlife crossroads, where the devil tries to lead her astray.

To be chosen as an addition to the Library of Congress's National Film Registry is certainly an honor. Here is how they are chosen:

The Librarian/Board will continue to select up to 25 "culturally, historically or aesthetically significant films" each year for the National Film Registry. To be eligible, films must be at least 10 years old, though they need not be feature-length or have had a theatrical release in order to be considered. The legislation's intent is that the broadest possible range of films be eligible for consideration.

Click her to find out if your favorite movie has made the registry.

-Keep Up and pass this along so that other people can do the same!

(sources: African American Registry, National Film Registry)

Keeping Up Daily...Top Stories to Help Us Keep Up

Bringing you the morning news...fastest way to "Keep Up"!

(photo taken from http://www.time.com/)

President Barack Obama on Friday urged Iran to come clean about it's nuclear activities, saying that it's secret nuclear fuel site shows Tehran's unwillingness to follow international rules, which requires countries to disclose such facilities at the beginning of construction. This was said at the beginning of the G-20 summit. Speaking of G-20, they will be taking on a serious role. A group of eight major industrial nations use to have the role of board of directors for the global economy, but will be taken over by the larger G-20, because countries needed to build a stronger, more balanced global economy, reform the financial system, and lift the lives of the poorest. They need to discuss world peace, because of situations like the next story. Afghan immigrant Najibullah Zazi, a 24-year-old shuttle driver at the Denver airport, was indicted in New York on charges of conspiracy to use weapons of mass destruction. Sources say he received explosives training from al-Qaida, and went from one beauty supply store to another, buying up large quantities of hydrogen peroxide and nail-polish remover, in a chilling plot to build bombs for attacks on U.S. soil.

Hosam Maher Husein Smadi was arrested in alleged plot to bomb Dallas skyscraper. They discovered violent posts on an extremist chat site which led to his arrest. Speaking of criminal cases, Jaycee Dugard will testify against the Garrido couple that allegedly held her captive in an elaborate compound hidden in their backyard for 18 years if there is a trial. The type of abuse Dugard went through was terrible, just like the abuse of many female Muslims in New York. Former domestic violence victim Robina Niaz's organization, Turning Point for Women and Families, helps female Muslim domestic violence victims, and was first resource of it's kind in New York City. Speaking of women, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, 76, was hospitalized Thursday after falling ill in her chambers. Not so good news about Ginsburg but good news for this next guy. Amateur treasure hunter Terry Herbert, 55, displays an Anglo-Saxon artifact that was part of a cache he discovered July 5 on a friend's farm in western England. Professional archaeologists unearthed 1,500 gold and silver pieces at the site.

-Keep Up!

Support Our Own: Mocha Kidz

Looking for gifts for children of color? Well, I ran into a site that specializes in finding quality toys for young children of color. We all know how hard it is sometimes to find dolls that look like our children or educational toys that will really provide our children with useful knowledge. Check out what Mocha Kidz has to offer:

Your one stop shopping portal for gift items especially for children of color.No longer will you have to scour websites for gift items that your children can relate to. We have taken care of all the time consuming searching for you.So bookmark this page and check back often as we will constantly update the contents. We hope to become your first stop when searching for children's gifts on the Web.Thanks for stopping by and we look forward to saving you time and helping you find the perfect gift!

Check out more information and go shopping at http://www.mochakidz.com/

Support your own! None of us can get to the top alone.

What's Happening...Black's Happening!

Bringing your positive black news...fastest way to "Keep Up"!

NBA star Chris Paul is crossing over into children books. Paul read his new book, "Long Shot: Never Too Small To Dream Big" to the kids at the NBA store in New York City. Well, this next guy isn't too big for his job. Robert Antoine Jones is the headwaiter at 'Jamil's Steakhouse' in Tulsa, and has been for over 60 years. He's the only headwaiter they've ever had. In fact, Robert is the very first employee ever hired at this restaurant, and still works there at 80 years old. He must really like his job and is very dedicated to it, and real Michael Jackson fans I know you are excited for the first posthumous release of a new Michael Jackson song, "This Is It," is scheduled for Oct. 12.

At the 14th annual HeLa Women's Health Conference, clinicians, scientists and medical practitioners from across the nation will gather in Atlanta, at Morehouse School of Medicine, to discuss the latest in women's cancer news and trends, from early screening to racial disparities. Morehouse makes me think of such great black men, just like actor Boris Kodjoe who will be starring alongside Bruce Willis in 'Surrogates,' which opens Sept. 25. Kodjoe isn't the only one making moves, Lebron James is making his way to the big screen. LeBron James will be in theaters this fall in the documentary 'More Than a Game,' which follows his high school basketball career, and James will make his feature-film debut in 'Fantasy Basketball Camp,' where he'll play himself.

Singer Beyonce Knowles will be performing on October 25th in Malaysia, but will be a little more conservative. Malaysians can expect her to be on her best behavior for a concert in this Muslim-majority country. The concert should be great regardless, and the NFL Players Association is pledging to raise or donate $1 million to help build the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial planned for the National Mall, which will also be great! As if news couldn't get any better for blacks, President Barack Obama will be the surprise special guest at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's annual Phoenix Awards dinner in Washington on Saturday, says sources.

-Keep Up and Stay Positive!

Tip of the Day: Coupons!!!!!

(photo taken from searchenginepeople.com)

During this recession so many people are complaining about not having enough money and not being able to save. However, they continue to live off of the same budget that they were living off of before the recession hit. I know I know....it is hard to let go of the finer things in life and the reality is, some things like groceries, we have to continue to buy regardless. So what is one to do?

I was watching Rachel Ray earlier, and a man on her show said that on average people could save over $4,500 a year if they used coupons to shop. I know we are use to our grandmothers cutting out coupons out of the newspaper and then being annoying as they hand over each one to the cashier, holding up the store line. Well, it is time to not care about being annoying. Do you want to save or please the people waiting in line behind you? It is time to dig into some ways where you can get coupons and savings galore! Below I have included some links to a few sites that provide some great coupons and savings:

http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/coupons/ You can find exclusive coupons and money saving tips! She has resturant, clothing store, travel, and many more deals.

coupons.com Printable coupons for groceries, office supplies, and more...They have over 141 free coupons for you today. Go now!

http://www.smartsource.com/ Printable grocery coupons!

couponcraze.com Clothing store coupons!!!!

shopathome.com Free restaurant coupons!

I provided you with the links; the problem is, you aren't going to really put them to use. Why are you preventing yourself from saving and "Keeping Up"? Go now!

Quotes of the Day...

"The future belongs to those who prepare for it today." -Malcolm X

"I tell people I'm too stupid to know what's impossible. I have ridiculously large dreams, and half the time they come true." -Debi Thomas

Keeping Up is Knowing Your History: Little Rock School Integration

Today, in 1957, President Dwight D. Eisenhower sends 1,000 U. S. government paratroopers to Little Rock, Ark., to desegregate schools, escorting nine Black young people to Central High School. This was the first federally supported effort to integrate America’s public schools.

September 24th had been weeks into school starting, and there have been several attempts by the black students to enter the school. Here is an excerpt from the book The Race Beat, by Gene Roberts and Hank Klibanoff, that highlights one of the attempts. In this part of the story one of the young black girls arrives at the school before the other eight students:

For a second time, Eckford was turned away. Stuck and unable to leave the scene until the next bus arrived, she sat on a bench at the bus stop, her head tilted downward. For minutes that seemed eternal, she absorbed the jeers, epithets, and threats of an angry crowd that seemed to be bouncing out of control all around her. Eckford sat alone, motionless, her arms folded over her lap.

Fine saw tears streaming down her cheeks behind her glasses...

A white woman, Grace Lorch, whose husband was a teacher at a local Negro college, joined Fine and Eckford. "What are you doing, you nigger lover?" one protester yelled at Lorch. "You stay away from that girl."

"She's scared," the white woman replied. "She's just a little girl." Then she walked away with Eckford in search of a taxi. "Six months from now," she told another member of the mob, "you'll be ashamed at what you are doing." She and Eckford made their way to a public bus and left together.

That scene showed the bravery of these nine young black students and how they took the heat for black students today to be able to attend the same schools as their white peers.

Keeping Up would like to say we thank you for your bravery and helping us "Keep Up"!

(sources: http://www.aaregistry.com/detail.php?id=560)

Keeping Up Daily...Top Stories to Help Us Keep Up

Bringing you the morning news....the fastest way to "Keep Up"!

Michael Moore on his latest Documentary

Iran is willing to have its nuclear experts meet with scientists from the United States and other world powers as a confidence-building measure aimed at resolving concerns about Tehran's nuclear program, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said Wednesday at the UN meeting. While the UN meeting happened Wednesday, a Group of 20 world leaders will meet for two days to focus on the worldwide financial crisis, and plot how to avoid a repeat in the future. In what appeared to be the most visible demonstration yet of this week's G-20 summit, four people attached to a massive banner dangled from a Pittsburgh bridge Wednesday to protest the global economic meeting. Greenpeace, the environmental activist group, claimed responsibility for the stunt, wanting to send a message to G-20 leaders calling for more attention to the issue of global climate change. More on world news, In Thailand, for the first time, an experimental vaccine has prevented infection with the AIDS virus, cutting the risk of becoming infected with HIV by more than 31 percent in the world's largest AIDS vaccine.

Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick plans to name Paul G. Kirk as an interim U.S. senator from Massachusetts, taking the place of former Senator Edward M. Kennedy. Sources say that he is the Kennedy families choice. Sources also say that the prime suspect in April’s Craigslist crime spree may be behind bars. Twenty-three-year-old Philip Markoff, a second year medical student at Boston University, is charged with murder, attempted robbery, kidnapping, robbery, and unlawful possession of a firearm. He has pleaded not guilty. If he did it, I hope that he get's the punishment he deserves. But the wife of Governor Paterson from New York says that her husband is being treated unfairly. She says it is "very unfair," that her husband has been asked not to run for re-election by President Barack Obama.

Nintendo said it is cutting the price of its popular Wii video-game console by $50 to $199.99. Speaking of cutting prices in this economy, Filmmaker Michael Moore takes on capitalism in his latest documentary. His new film, "Capitalism: A Love Story," where Moore says Wall Street took our money and made bets with it, opened Wednesday in New York and Los Angeles, California, and opens nationwide next week. I wonder if this movie will truly shine light on some of the reasons our economy might be how it is. But on to good news, the number of people who filed for initial unemployment claims for the week of Sept. 19 fell by a seasonally-adjusted 21,000 to 530,000. This next story might not be good for every city; Citigroup Inc plans to cut down its U.S. branch network to six big metropolitan areas, New York, Washington, Miami, Chicago, San Francisco and Los Angeles.



-Keep Up!

Make Sure You Participate in Today's Discussion!

How do you feel about ghost writers writing for popular rappers?

How do you feel about the mistreatment of women in Hip Hop?

Answer these questions and read the article on the Annual Bootleg Hip Hop Festival by clicking on this link.

Save DC Youth Court!

The following message is forwarded at the request of UDC-DCSL students who are working to save Time Dollar Youth Court.(The Message was passed along from ThroatchopUniversity.com)

On August 31, 2009, the Time Dollar Youth Court received formal notice that its application for funding for 2009-2010 had been DENIED. Unless further action is taken, Youth Court will be FORCED TO SHUT DOWN on October 1, 2009.

The Time Dollar Youth Court is the ONLY court approved diversion program in DC that provides alternatives to detention, prosecution and residential placement/prison for juvenile offenders. The Time Dollar Youth Court operates at a cost of $511 per child. According to a recent study, taxpayers save $9,200 for each case diverted to a Youth Court; therefore, the Youth Court has already saved the District over $5 MILLION this year and almost $9 MILLION last year. (Download a fact sheet in PDF format)

WHAT YOU CAN DO:
We are asking you to contact the Mayor and your Councilmember IMMEDIATELY and tell them to save Youth Court.

To contact the Mayor’s Office, call 311 or (202) 727-2980.

To contact your Councilmember, click here: www.dccouncil.washington.dc.us/contactuscouncil

Also, you can:Rate videos on YouTube: www.youtube.com/TimeBanksUSA

Support our cause on Facebook: Time Dollar Youth Court

Tweet us at: @saveyouthcourt

Visit the Youth Court website at: www.tdyc.org

Send an e-mail of support to Youth Court at: saveyouthcourt@tdyc.org

Please take the time to show your support for this important DC program!

Thank you.

Quotes of the Day...

"Well, if you find a note tonight that sounds good, play the same damn note every night!" -Count Basie

"Expect nothing. Live frugally on surprise." -Alice Walker

Socialite on the Scene...Breathing In Hip-Hop

Written by Joaquin M. Turley, Jr. (Make sure to check out discussion questions at the end of article)

Over the past week, Sep 16-19, the second annual Bootleg Festival took place in the Washington D.C. area. It was put on by Words Beats and Life, Inc. and the DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities. This festival is about many things but focuses mainly on the evolution of various aspects of Hip-Hop not as a genre but a way of life. There were workshops, film screenings, concerts and panels all over the D.C. area throughout the duration of the event.

I went to a panel discussing the misogyny of women in hip hop. Misogyny is the hatred or mistreatment of women. So several issues were discussed along the lines of how women are thought of or degraded within hip-hop and how before we as a community can change these images, we must change the mindset of how we treat our women as a whole. Toni Blackman and friend Hanifah Walidah were the most outspoken on the panel of five which was comprised of all females. Below is a picture of the two together.

There was also a film festival which showcased various issues surrounding African-Americans and musical forms. The 2009 Jury Award Winner entitled "Say My Name" actually took place before the panel discussion. I highly suggest women sink their teeth into this most tasty documentary because it takes a hard hitting look into the world of Hip-hop from a woman’s perspective and points out the double standards surrounding their careers and lives. MC Lyte expressed, "It takes more than just lyrics. Women MC’s names are bigger than their record sales. As Rah Digga expressed her intolerance of how hip-hop is changing as a whole. She stated, "I write all my rhymes" and went on to say she lost respect for the "game" when she found out about all of the ghost writers writing for popular rappers.

It also shed light on the different ways women receive attention both negative and positive within the industry and mirrors how women must go above and beyond to receive the same ‘props’ as men do. Perhaps the most intriguing issue was the fact that many of the unknown artists who were featured felt as though more established acts were not representing female M.C.’s the correct way. In the panel discussion, this was also touched on as many women stated how there are so many issues women face that popular female rappers don’t talk about.After the panel and films, The Circus Concert took place and showcased the young talent in the D.C. area. Acts performing were Bomani "D’Mite Armah, Educated Consumers, Lyriciss, J Ferb, M1 Platoon, Rosetta Stoned and The Five One.

For more information on the festival please visit…. www.bootlegfestdc.com

How do you feel about ghost writers writing for popular rappers? How do you feel about the mistreatment of women in Hip Hop?

Keeping Up is Knowing Your History: NACWC

Today, in 1863, Mary "Mollie" Church Terrell, an African-American social activist who was co-founder and first president of the National Association of Colored Women, was born.

The National Association of Colored Women's Clubs, Inc. was organized in 1896 in Washington D.C. at the Nineteenth Street Baptist Church. The organization was and has remained a significant voice to national affairs and contributed to the uplifting of the American way of life.

To find out more information click here.

Keeping Up would like to say Happy Birthday Mollie and thank you for helping to contribute to the services of the National Association of Colored Women.

Keeping Up Daily...Top Stories to Help Us Keep Up

Bringing you the morning news....fastest way to "Keep Up"!

DayCamp wins racism case against Valley Swim Club

The Obama administration will announce a new policy Wednesday making it much more difficult for the government to claim that it is protecting state secrets when it hides details of sensitive national security strategies, something that the Bush Administration claimed throughout their term. Former U.S. vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin didn't actually have an important announcement, but she did recently speak in Asia in front of a group of global investors to share her views from "Main Street U.S.A", at an annual conference where they came to discuss a wide-ranging talk about governance, economics and U.S. and Asian affairs. Speaking of other countries, a pall of red dust blown in from the Outback clogged the skies over Sydney, Australia disrupting public transportation and causing people to have extreme breathing problems.

Department of Homeland Security and FBI issues security bulletins to raise awareness regarding "terrorist interest" in attacking sports and entertainment venues, but there are currently no credible or specific terrorist attacks at this time. While there is no emergency yet regarding terrorist attacks, there has been a state of emergency declared in Ventura County, California due to a wildfire that officials fear fire could breach pipelines connected to oil-pumping rigs. I hope some how the country is offering California our support. President Barack Obama is seeking the support of the other world leaders, as he plans to speak in front of the U.N General Assembly regarding nuclear non-proliferation, Mideast conflict, terrorism, poverty, and disease.

A fertility clinic implanted the wrong embryos into a couple, but the couple plans to go through with the birth, and then hand it over to the right couple. The fertility made a huge mistake, just like the Valley Swim Club. The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission issued a finding of probable cause Tuesday that racism was involved in the decision last June by a suburban Philadelphia swim club to revoke privileges of a largely minority day care center. This next story is all wrong. Actress Mackenzie Phillips reveals she had a long-term incestuous relationship with her famous father, musician John Philips, while being a heavy drug user. But on to some good news, Bank of America and Chase Bank are easing their overdraft rule and are lowering fees and changing the way they debit consumer accounts, among other changes.


-Keep Up!

Let's Talk About It...Is Racism No Longer Hiding? Should it be Addressed?

(photo taken from OpenSalon)

Former President Jimmy Carter has sparked a "mini" debate on racism ever since Carter said racial politics played a role in South-Carolina Rep. Joe Wilson's outbursts during President Barack Obama's speech to Congress on health care and some of the other opposition the president has faced since taking office. "When a racial fringe element of demonstrators and others begin to attack the president of the U.S. as an animal or a reincarnation of Adolf Hitler or when they wave signs in the air that said we should have buried Obama with Kennedy, those kinds of things are beyond the bonds."(Carter talking to students at Emory University)

Since Carter's comments, there have been responses from President Obama, former President Bill Clinton, and Michael Steele, the first African American to chair the Republican National Committee, stating that they did not agree that Joe Wilson's outburst was racially motivated. However, Clinton states on Good Morning America, "I sympathize with former President Jimmy Carter's feeling that racism accounts for the strenuous opposition to Obama.", but said, "that's not what's driving Obama's critics." Clinton said, "What's driving them is they don't want health care."

After reading all of their comments, one might agree that maybe Joe Wilson's "you lie" comment had everything to do with his objection to Obama's health care plan. But one might also conclude that the blatant disrespect from Wilson and other members of the Republican party could stem from their objection of having a black President. For years people have had opposition against plans brought forth by other President's, but have actions of disrespect been shown towards them in such a high degree as this? If you continue to read Carter's statement, he also points out actions and comments that have been made by demonstrators that go beyond opposing a bill. Comments like Hitler, pictures of him as a "witch doctor", wishes of him being dead with Kennedy, might raise a few eyebrows to think that maybe this goes beyond health care.

These incidents and comments by our leaders raises a question, does racism need to be a topic that is given some real attention? Is racism becoming more blatant again, and do people no longer feel like it is inappropriate to be outwardly racist? President Obama is not the only person that has been attacked in these last few years. We can recall MSNBC's Imus in the Morning, host Don Imus referring to the Rutgers University women's basketball team, as "nappy-headed hos". I am sure we also remember unarmed Sean Bell being killed by police outside of his own bachelor party. And very recently, an email was released calling Harvard Professor Henry Louis Gates Jr., a jungle-monkey.

Although, I am not completely sure that the issue of racism still existing and effecting our country should be brought to the forefront by President Barack Obama, I do think that is something that our leaders in Congress, former presidents, and leaders in our community might need to discuss. We need to let our country know that despite your inner feelings towards your fellow Americans, it is never appropriate to outwardly treat anyone as if they are lesser of an American or person than you. We will not tolerate disrespect on any level, including in the work place or something as simple as a comment being made on television. We have an entire new generation that is listening with open ears, and can possibly be influenced to be as negative as some of these actions being made today. It is the responsibility of our country to ensure that a cop doesn't feel like it is okay to target a man because of the color of his skin, or disrespect a leader for the same reason. If we don't speak up, then matters could get worse. And not for one second should you let people convince you that leaders addressing racism will prevent congress from addressing issues such as health care and the economy, because their job is to address all issues that affect our country. If a person dies from the shots of a police gun, will the fact that they now have health care bring them back? Both are important!

I'll leave you with the words of Martin Luther King Jr.,

"We have also come to this hallowed spot to remind America of the fierce urgency of NOW."

"And those who hope that the Negro needed to blow off steam and will now be content will have a rude awakening if the nation returns to business as usual."

" 'When will you be satisfied?' We can never be satisfied as long as the Negro is the victim of the unspeakable horrors of the police brutality. We cannot be satisfied as long as the negro's basic mobility is from a smaller ghetto to a larger one."

If we don't speak up now, then when?

Do you think racism is something that should be discussed in our country today?

Tip of the Day: Don't Get Your Resume Tossed.

(photo taken from www.resumesthatsuck.com)

The "Keeping Up" Tip of the day was submitted by one of our readers, Mercii, and comes from Yahoo! HotJobs: Why Your Resume Get's Tossed".


The article discuss five reasons that your resume could possibly be thrown out before someone would even consider reading the entire resume. The author of the article points out the average recruiter sees 5,000 resumes a year. That number would cause any recruiter to want to limit the amount of resumes that they actually have to read. The author wants to warn you ahead of time, so that you do not make simple mistakes that would have your resume end up in the throw away pile.


Here is one of the reasons:


Numbers Don't Add Up

If accomplishments can be quantified, do it -- but use discretion. Brandishing borderline performance numbers signals a lack of experience and bad judgment. "Phrases like 'managed a budget of $500,000' or 'led a team of two' might catch my eye in a bad way," warns Olaf Weckesser, a former recruiter for McKinsey & Co. Better to spin it as "managed company's largest budget."

Adds Alexandra DeMarino, a Citigroup recruiter: "If a small number is impressive, you absolutely have to put it in context." Because you can't provide context for academic numbers, don't include GMAT scores below 650 if you're targeting a top firm. DeMarino suggests bragging about nothing less than a 3.7 GPA.



Click here to find out the other four reasons...






-Keep Up!

Keeping Up is Knowing Your History: Atlanta Race Riot

Today, in 1906, marks the anniversary of the race riot in Atlanta, Georgia, where thousands of whites gathered in downtown Atlanta and began randomly assaulting innocent African Americans. The race riot went on for three days, and when it ended at least 25 African Americans had died, others wounded, and it inflicted considerable property damage.

Prior to the riot, there had been debates on how to best manage Atlanta's growing black population, which had grown from about 9,000 in 1880 to 35,000 in 1900. Makes you wonder if the increase in blacks caused this mob?

Such growth put pressure on municipal services, increased job competition among black and white workers, heightened class distinctions, and led the city's white leadership to respond with restrictions intended to control the daily behavior of the growing working class, with mixed success. Such conditions caused concern among elite whites, who feared the social intermingling of the races, and led to an expansion of Jim Crow segregation, particularly in the separation of white and black neighborhoods and separate seating areas for public transportation. (The New Georgia Encyclopedia)

However, history says that reports of four assaults of white women, assumed to be done by black men, drove whites to mob action.

-Keep up and pass this story along so that other's may do the same!

(sources: African American History for Dummies by onda Racha Penrice)