GOOGLE.ORG: THE BIG “GIVE”

By now you’ve probably heard Google.org will donate $175 million to worthy causes via the Google Foundation.

When the company went public four years ago, they said they’d give away 1% of their profits (to start). This year, they’re starting to put their money where their mouth is. While paltry compared to the $70 Billion Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Google is at the top of the heap when it comes to making good on their promise.

And, $175 million can still do a lot of good!

Thinking as the insightful engineers they are, the Google folks are ahead of the curve. They’re supporting plug-in car technology and backing a group called Instedd or Innovative Support to Emergencies, Diseases and Disasters. Their task: to improve data and communication networks in emerging countries. Hey Google—Can you lend a hand to US Homeland Security?

Google is getting into the philanthropic mix in the areas of global health and security, communicable disease prevention and biological threats. They also plan to support “the missing middle,” a program to assist small business development in Africa and South Asia, helping to build their missing middle class.

Creative, important thinking. You can always count on Google to develop sound grassroots to global strategies that impact lives.

To learn more about “Dot.org” as it’s called by insiders, visit http://google.org.

RSS: FAST BECOMING NEW STANDARD

RSS feeds let busy people receive web-based content updates. Benefits include: less spam, sales promos and 100 percent control over your email/ezines WITHOUT revealing your email address. And, you don’t have to be bothered with “take me off your list” requests, which often aren’t honored anyway. It also cuts back on viruses, phishing, or identity theft. Content can be easily eliminated with one simple click!

Really simple solution

In short, you subscribe to an RSS feed and then automatically receive new content in your feed reader. To learn more, visit: http://www.evolvingtimes.com/contact/how-to-use-rss

:: Backstory ::

Services like My Yahoo, My MSN, iGoogle have personalized home page services built in—that means you’re already familiar with RSS technology without knowing it. Once you make your personal selections, the syndicated content like stock quotes, weather and news pop up on your personal page, and you can rearrange the icons. This allows you to add updates and content from blogs or any other site with RSS capabilities.

Other RSS tools include:

> Bloglines (free)

> Firefox browser, receive RSS feeds from tool bar (use live bookmarks function)

> Desktop-based feed readers like Newsgator and Feed Demon

> FeedBurner (aids in subscription process)

“Chicklets” offer feed options

These are buttons like the RSS standard icon (orange and white icon with no letters) or other specialized chicklets for your home page that direct you to subscription pages. Little buttons that say XML or RSS are being phased out. If you see them, cut and paste the page URL from your browser window and paste it into the feed reader subscription function.

Keep tabs on RSS and other “technovations” to help you work smart. Special thanks to Copyblogger and Evolving Times for providing background content for this post.

SOCIAL MEDIA METRICS (SMM) – Part II
A Millynneum Insight Primer

Social Media Metrics (SMM) is the “wild wild west” of marketing, the industry’s “new frontier.” Leading agencies are paid top dollar to help clients understand what makes customers tick.

Today’s MarComm execs analyze and monitor popular sites/blogs, make client ad rekos, suggest content and client-centric hyperlinks. Today’s newly minted communications pros drill for “deep smarts” to sharpen their clients’ competitive edge!

Execs from PR, marketing, customer service, interactive marketing, research and development (R&D) use social media metrics to expand market share. The most intelligent marketers amass a team of execs from cross-functional disciplines to direct social media programs.

In developing their recent monitoring and analysis survey, The Aberdeen Group developed a wonderful tool to examine your use or need for SMM:
http://www.aberdeen.com/survey/social%5Fmedia/. Survey participants receive a free summary that predicts how SMM will affect strategic decisions in the areas of:

> customer service satisfaction (including timely response to blog posts)

> customer insight

> social marketing products’ link/impact on brand objectives

> ability to predict customer behavior or determine product flaws

> customer affinity for new products/services

> monitor campaign effectiveness

> timeliness & accuracy of marketing decisions

> return on marketing investment (ROMI)

> provide research alternatives

> competitive brand info

> ability to quickly share SMM insight with key audiences/influencers

> advance warning about potential brand threats

Intelligent execs will expand budgets in this arena. If dollars aren’t available for a full-scale program, monitor social media and seriously think about a formal measurement program as you plan 2009/2010 budgets. Follow trends; plan now for the years ahead. Social media is on fire!

It’s critical E-suite execs in the engineering, electronic and IT/information technology arena have support from C-suite leaders such as the chief executive, information and technology officers. Most marketing and business pundits agree the best way for SMM to work is with a cross-functional approach, including commitments from key departments, including marketing, finance, customer service, corporate communications, etc.

If a multi-function mindset is embraced, it allows for broad thinking that can link products, trends and processes from the Americas to the Far East. Otherwise, if the right people aren’t involved, the SMM process will likely fall short.

Aberdeen Group also provides a comprehensive list of SMM analysis performance tools including: 1st2C, Attention, Biz360, Brandimensions, Buzzcentric, Buzzlogic, CIC, Collective Intellect, Converseon, Crawdad Technologies, CSC, CyberAlert, Cymfony (TNS), Echo Research, Envisional, Factiva (Dow Jones), Fluxmonitor, iCrossing, Ingegrasco, Kaava, Magpie Brandwatch, Market Sentinel, MarketClusters, Milward Brown Precis, Mindcomet, MotiveQuest, Nielsen Buzzmetrics, Onalytica, Radian6, RelevantNoise, Seer, Serph (ACS), Umbria, Verisign, Visible Technologies and Wagganer Edstrom Worldwide.

Pick what works for your company, but make sure you pick one.

SOCIAL MEDIA METRICS (SMM)
The Next Big Thing

At your leisure …

1) Join WOMMA’s list serve (Word of Mouth Marketing Association)
http://www.womma.org

2) Take 10 minute social media survey (worth the effort)
Aberdeen Group
http://www.aberdeen.com/survey/social%5Fmedia/

> Excellent tool
> Provides thoughtful overview of social marketing metrics
> Survey includes list of top social media metrics firms
> Pick your favorites and secure new resources!

3) Once you complete survey, this pops features tons of topic-specific background info
http://www.aberdeen.com/access/access_research.asp

Happy reading!

:: Backstory ::

> Social Marketing Metrics (SMM) is the “wild wild west” of marketing, the industry’s “new frontier”
> Top agencies get paid top dollar for research
> Today’s MarComm execs analyze and monitor popular sites/blogs, make client ad rekos, suggest content and client-centric hyperlinks
> See Nov ‘07 Center for Communication blog post for in-depth info
http://millynneuminsight.blogspot.com/
> The Aberdeen Group’s survey drills for deep smarts and provides ammo to sharpen your competitive edge!

THE “R” CARD(S)

“Recession,” “resource optimization” and “reward.” All “R” cards are in play.

Recession

Today’s AdAge.com provides perspective on how the mortgage crisis will impact the marketing and media industries. It turns out few business categories are exempt from the results an economic downturn may have on our earning and spending power. Ad execs, the people who politely persuade us to swipe our credit/debit cards at the register, share their predictions @ http://adage.com/article?article_id=123055.

Resource optimization

However you interpret this phrase, you’re right! To avoid being burned by the recession, opt out of the “affluenza craze” with the book Generation Debt: Take Control of Your Money—A How-to Guide by Carmen Wong Ulrich. She encourages audiences, particularly people under 30 to take advantage of free, convenient financial planning tools like http://wesabe.com and http://geezeo.com. Budgeting, credit card management and tons of other info is at your fingertips. Practically the only thing the websites don’t calculate is the percentage of site visitors who actually take the sound online advice.

In my view, it’s always best to play the “resource optimization” card. Everyone has resources that can put you on a path to financial freedom. The primary resource is your brain.

Reward

Pay bills on time. If necessary, negotiate with creditors. Get financially smart. Watch Suze Orman or another financial guru. Follow the old adage: “Neither a borrower or a lender be.”

Resource optimization can also mean “repurposing” cherished possessions on Ebay to stay liquid. Or, you can thoroughly recycle personal spending habits and halt unnecessary credit card use. We all know you do have to have some plastic in today’s ATM (Automatically Taking your Money) driven world; just be prudent with your visits to the cash machine. It’s so easy to swipe; sometimes you have to rethink purchases and “just say no.”

Start now to recession proof your wallet and optimize resources. Rewards will follow!

WORK SMART!
LOOK @ STARBUCKS*, DAIMLER-BENZ AND TATA

Joe Nocera’s “Curing What Ails Starbucks” story in yesterday’s New York Times got me thinking, and truly energized my day. Check it out @
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/12/business/12nocera.html?scp=2&sq=Joe+Nocera

It prompted me to devise my own “personal change statement.” I was encouraged to seriously consider my company’s competition here in NYC, regionally, and abroad. I vowed to:

> Start new conversations
> Own new experiences
> Repurpose areas of expertise
> Create “the next big thing”

In a global business environment, Americans must accept vast competition. For example, ongoing job losses in Detroit foretell our bleak future in the auto market. General Motors still reigns as our #1 car manufacturer; but Toyota is on the fast track and in #2 position after bumping Ford Motor Company to #3.

Will the US ever regain its spot as a global business innovator?

Recently Daimler-Benz (Germany) and Tata Motors (India), introduced pint-sized, two-seater cars for $12,000 and $2,500 respectively. India now boasts the world’s cheapest car, the “Nano,” and is grabbing tons of FREE international publicity. You don’t have to buy one, but can join the frenzy and build a dream car @ http://tatanano.com/tatamotors/. Engineers who developed safety standards for the Mercedes had a hand in Smart for Two; http://smartusa.com; Americans can reserve one for $99 … what a promotion!

Both cars are environmentally friendly and appeal to American’s new passion to “go green”. While neither car gets high marks for comfortable long-distance or cross country travel, each gets you to your destination without major debt.

That’s the model, this is where the world is going. Americans need to get out of their gas guzzling mindset and get with the program. Often, you'll find you only need to take one or two folks along for the ride. Travel is lighter, swifter and usually there's a better view of the open road ahead.

Be smart. Things change each nanosecond.

*Full disclosure: I’m a huge fan of Starbucks Spiced Pumpkin Loaf, a hard to find seasonal offering. I recently scoured five stores until finding a hearty supply at the Lower East Side Manhattan Starbucks on Delancy, near the Williamsburg Bridge. Get there early, it goes fast. Yum!

G2GPR: OBAMA IN BED-STUY

Neighborhood Update

The Obama’08 Campaign has deployed excellent Grassroots to Global Public Relations (G2GPR) techniques to get the word out.

Nearly every store in my Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood (Brooklyn USA) prominently displays an Obama’08 poster. The election was a hot topic this week at Community Business Services, our neighborhood FedExKinkos; Foodtown and the hardware store, nicknamed “Fulton (Home) Depot.”

Hillary, get ready for the campaign fight of your life here in New York and New Jersey. Word is spreading like wildfire. Recently, my colleague Kevin Derricotte spoke about how proud his 79 year-old mother Margaret is of Obama; she’s already looking forward to the day she can vote for him in the primary. Mrs. Derricotte isn’t alone. Others are patiently waiting to make their voices heard.
Change is contagious!

Over the past decade, my Bed-Stuy neighborhood has changed tremendously. Previously primarily African American and West Indian, Bed-Stuy now boasts people of all races, including an influx of young artsy types, including young European families of blended cultures. Many are proud Obama supporters!

The result: new perspectives and ways of looking at the world, multiple flavors of soy milk and organic foods at the grocery and pedestrians joined by young Anglos who skateboard to the Chinese restaurant or “A” train express stop on Nostrand Avenue. Previously known as the “African Express” (linking black neighborhoods in Brooklyn and Harlem), the “A” is now demographically reflective of the city’s ethnic makeup. New name: “All Races” transportation system.

Times are a changin’ and change is a great thing ... on the job and at home!

Ah, “There’s no place like home.” As the world’s biggest Judy Garland/”Wizard of Oz” fan, I totally agree with this classic quote that keeps me grounded.

Unlike the Wizard, there’s substance behind the curtain and Obama’s campaign is no fairy tale. It’s rigorous, righteous and gaining momentum here on the home front.

Obama’s Presidential bid is a real American success story that already has a happy ending. More people are talking about politics and examining issues. More citizens are registering to vote. More people are believing they can make change happen.

Choose change. Voice your opinion. Vote!

10 WAYS TO WIN

Chaos vs. Calculated Success

Whoa! Learn to replace chaos with sanity. Everyone’s on overdrive. Make a concerted effort NOT to be drained by the world’s priorities. We all have to make a living. The trick is to make your priorities and cash flow catapult you toward your specific life goals. We’re all different. First, determine how much you really need or want.

If you want a lot, understand everything has a cost; stress, ulcers and medical bills may be part of the package. Conversely, too much leisure time often leads to boredom and overall lack—of goals, self esteem and success (translation: no money, no friends, no future).

Tips from Suzy Welch: 10-10-10

Destined to be a best-seller, former Harvard Business Review Editor Suzy Welch just made a cool $1 million for her forthcoming book for women: 10-10-10.

According to Valerie Block of Crain’s New York Business, “The self-help guide advises women to make decisions considering their consequences 10 minutes, 10 months and 10 years down the road.”

This simple premise of “10” provides sound, winning advice. In my view, women sometimes adopt a “control-oriented, save the world” mentality. Often, that doesn't work in our favor. Over the next week, I’m going to take Suzy's 10-10-10 tip to heart as I make major decisions. It's good advice for men as well!

A few years ago, I had the pleasure of meeting Suzy and her husband, Jack Welch, former CEO of General Electric. They exuded genuine friendliness and charm; often a trait of the accomplished, once you take the opportunity and get to know them. Each engaged you in conversation. Suzy even paid me a totally unexpected compliment. Of course it made my day and, I’ll never forget her kind words.

These people know how to work a crowd, but more importantly, they’re part of the power elite who know how to make every individual count. It’s a hidden talent most people have; if cultivated, it can leads to successful relationships and lucrative careers.

That’s the secret to their success in life, and marriage, I suppose. Stay tuned for my review after reading 10-10-10; Winning, by Jack and Suzy Welch, was a runaway best-seller.

Lynne’s 10 Ways to Win

1. Maintain integrity
2. Set high standards
3. Stay motivated
4. Compete with yourself
5. Achieve and succeed
6. Work smart
7. Encourage others
8. Avoid detractors
9. Don’t show all your cards
10. Rise early … work late … play to win!

RAIN & LEMONADE

RAIN: Renovate, Automate, Innovate, Negotiate

RAIN is my ‘08 buzz word. There’s nothing better than a long walk in a light rain; it’s soothing to feel a light mist on my face. For me, that’s a slice of heaven. Here’s a sprinkling of what’s on the horizon:

RENOVATE

> lay new foundation
> employ feng shui approach to surroundings (ordered harmony)
> repair, replace, update, eliminate
> build “new wings” on existing structures

AUTOMATE

> upgrade tech
> work smarter & faster, not harder

INNOVATE

> expand thinking
> unleash creativity
> add new contacts & connections

NEGOTIATE

> new avenues for success
> uncharted terrain
> higher summits
> win-win contracts

“When Life Gives You Lemons, Make Lemonade”

My colleague recently dubbed me “lemonade lady” after I put a positive spin on structural damage to ceilings caused by contractors upgrading another apartment in our building. We’re dealing with a little dust and rubble; many are homeless. Never forget how fortunate you are.

Always remember to thank the people who contributed to your success and consider who you’re taking along for the ride. You can always aspire, but it’s more important to inspire others each step along life’s journey.

Especially when it’s raining!

POLLS, FAIRY TALES AND LYNCHINGS

While analysts got it wrong predicting New Hampshire primary results, one thing’s for sure—there’s power in each vote and citizens still have loud political voices. Never underestimate the power of hard work, perseverance and ongoing contact (face time and phones) during the combat of a political campaign.

Make sure you’re part of the process. And, consider the power of words as you listen or craft messages. Political campaigns provide an excellent pressure cooker forum to study marketing communications up close and personal. See what makes the candidates tick and their opponents squirm. You can learn a lot and effectively use these oratory and negotiation techniques to sway opinion, pitch ideas, sell yourself or your clients’ products.

Think about:

> Pew Research Center predictions of future primary votes being solidly cast along lines of gender, race and class

> Bill Clinton’s comment regarding Barak Obama’s campaign being a “fairy tale”

* It’s a simple, easy-to-understand statement that portrays something as not true, without going into details or being vicious

* Can cause some (like me) to cringe, if you support Obama (I do)

* Questions raised: Is Clinton saying Harvard educated Sen. Obama, a Black man, is ephemeral, a fairy tale? Is a Black man or any man (John Edwards), not “allowed” to put their hat in the ring against the Clinton political machine? Is “Papa” (Father Bill) saying Obama voters, of any ethnicity, are naive souls who believe in fairy tales?

Words are powerful tools. Words can convey wisdom, or sway elections. You decide for yourself with your voice, your vote, your vibrant debate of issues.

Tiger Woods and the “L” Word
http://sports.espn.go.com/golf/news/story?id=3186158

In case you missed it, on January 4, Golf Channel anchor Kelly Tilghman said today's young players should "lynch Tiger Woods in a back alley," as she described his dominance in the golf world. She later apologized and Woods' agent called the story a "non-issue." For the full story, check out ESPN.com; link above.

We all make mistakes, but Kelly, Kelly, Kelly … lynching is not to be referenced when referring to Black men. Men of color were lynched for looking at Anglo women like you. Keep in mind that in another time, Tiger nor his father would not have been able to wed women of other races, without the very real prospect of bodily harm.

Indeed, we all should be free to chose our spouse. And clearly, we are free to choose our words wisely. Remember to think before you speak or send something out into the blogosphere.

You can retract words, but messages remain intact.

THE NH FACTOR
OBAMA: NEW (AMERICAN) HERO FOR
NEW HAMPSHIRE AND THE USA

“Not long ago we were left for dead on the side of the road. After that, you never get over confident.”
- Obama ‘08 Campaign Aide

Let’s be sure of one thing. Sen. Barak Obama (D-IL) is the New (American) Hero, not only in Iowa and New Hampshire, but in American homes nationwide.

Reporters propose children will one day ask their parents, “You voted for Obama, the first African American president, right?” Our New American Hero is often compared to John F. Kennedy and Abraham Lincoln.

My gut says Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-NY) … your days are numbered. It’s time for a change. I respect you, your achievements and your husband. But, it’s time for America to embrace a new day; a new way of success.

The media is brutal, yet forgiving. While Dick Morris and other political pundits have been in "Hillary attack mode" for months, they backpedaled after her squeaky New Hampshire win.

Yesterday, Bill O’Reilly chastised Hillary for being unavailable to journalists, people who are trying to share her story with the American people. O’Reilly repeatedly lauded Obama as “a gentleman” after shaking his hand and agreeing to come on his popular Fox TV show.

Full disclosure: As my readers know, I’m a big O’Reilly fan. He’s a fellow New Yorker, journalist, and great showman who knows how to build a brand. I follow his lead in the development of my company. While his views are often contrarian, the older I get the more centrist I become. Mark my words; count on O'Reilly to a big Obama supporter in the coming months!

These days, I’m fully in my marketing communications zone. Campaign season is a dynamic mix of civics, negotiation and grassroots community organization. Everyone agrees that this is the most interesting primary season in decades for both Democrats and Republicans. Here's my take on the past few days:

Primary missteps

> Hillary’s tears

Let me be clear: Grown women don't cry in the public eye. Men can shed a tear and be human. Women must “man up.” Some believe this helped Hillary win over older women voters in the New Hampshire primary. Some folks thought it made her human. I disagree; read yesterday’s post, re: "hard core values and vision" to learn why.

> The daughter

Chelsea Clinton can’t become a media debutante when times are tough. Too little, too late. Last week, she missed the opportunity to speak to a nine-year old Scholastic reporter, because mom and dad said “no interviews.” Meanwhile, McCain’s daughter is stumping and blogging for dad. C’mon folks! We know what she looks like; hopefully, we'll get to hear more from Chelsea.

Leadership by the numbers

> Campaigns are a fascinating microcosm of the communications business, because things move fast and furious. If you’re not doing the job, you get canned. Thus, several politicos will be off to pursue new opportunities. Oh well. They're bright and talented and will probably surface in another camp soon.

> CNN just declared Clinton the winner, with 39% of the votes. Here’s my opinion. Obama is the real winner, because he’s taken on the Clinton machine and shown everyone nothing is a sure bet. Keep in mind 54% of the NH electorate did not vote for Hillary; 37% rode the Obama wave and 17% voted for John Edwards.

Concede with class

> While they did not win, Edwards and Mike Huckabee (R) both cheerfully congratulated victors in their respective parties. Edwards gets points for the musical backdrop of Bruce Springsteen’s “This is Our Country” and a simple message of organized labor and being the fighting man for the middle class. Look like you still can win. Smile. Thank your supporters. Get a burger named after you, i.e. the "Huckaburger."

Primary learnings

> It’s not over until it’s over. Politics just got even more interesting. Off to Michigan, South Carolina and Nevada!

> Don't just talk about political change. Make change happen. Join a political action committee or grassroots community organization.

HARD CORE VALUES & VISION

An assessment of my skill set and feedback from family and trusted associates denotes high organizational and writing skills, a “tell it like it is attitude” and open, albeit serious demeanor.

Some describe me as “hard core.” In my world, that’s definitely a compliment!

Basically, I’m business minded and don’t respond well to BS. In the words of the late Reginald Lewis, Chair of TLC Beatrice, “state your terms up front.”

My terms are simple. I try to maintain a proactive and professional stance and expect others to respond in kind. If you set high expectations, usually others rise to the challenge. Once you learn to lead, most people follow by example. I’ve had great leaders throughout my life, wonderful teachers that include my entrepreneurial grandparents, parents, managers, coworkers and clients who I’ve learned from and blossomed with over the years.

And, I think they’ve had the opportunity to learn a few things from me as well. We can all teach, learn and achieve mutual goals … if we remain open to the possibilities … if we develop our core values and unique vision.

While I remain firm, my hard core has the capacity to soften, if there’s good reason. First, you have to learn to value your position, your worth, your time, your talents your perspective and what you want out of life.

Develop the discipline and drive to stay on course. Monitor your progress with an internal GPS device that alerts you when it’s time to change routes. While there's a standard speed limit, be assertive enough to forge ahead or pause; always practice defensive habits. Beware: at every turn, others will try to veer you off course with their wants, needs, desires.

Just say no.

Say yes to your values, your vision, your priorities.

Once you take charge, talk strong and verbalize your unique perspective, your inner core will soon develop an extremely positive, hard core brilliance. You can actually feel your core strengthen over time. You feel it when you’ve earned the right to disagree. I feel the power of my solid inner core in corporate boardrooms when I have to speak out on issues others are insensitive to or afraid to question.

A hard core gives you focus. A hard core helps you stay in the game for the long haul. A hard core gives you the iron will to persevere in pursuit of your dreams.

As Sally Field once said about her illustrious 40 year acting career, “Yes, I’m still standing. You can’t let a stiff breeze blow you down.”

Be different. Be a pioneer. Be hard core.

IDEAS INSPIRE!

Everyone needs a little inspiration, particularly in the creative industries. My idea board changes often and always prepares me for success; my definition:

S imple
U se of
C lear
C ommunication
E quals
S ales and
S atisfaction!

Whether digital or tactile, always keep yourself motivated. As I rev up for the New Year, a review of recent posts shows me how much progress I’ve made. Since I’m a marketer, I often clip favorite ads. For example:

> Money. It’s just not what it used to be.

Phoenix Wealth Management power ad featuring Asian, Anglo and African American women between the ages of 40-60 (my demographic). While proud of my investment and savings strategies over the past decade, a glace at my idea board made me vow to do even better.

> The View from Your Office May Be Spectacular. But Can You See the Future?

Fidelity Workplace Services. This company was ahead of the curve regarding HR outsourcing services. On my end, I’m preparing to partner with offshore resources to expand my consulting business. Non-traditional resources offer choice staffing options at bargain prices.

> I am Your Idea. Use Me. Lose Me.*
It’s not how many ideas you have. It’s how many you make happen.

Accenture. Innovation delivered.
* Definitely, my fave.

Portrait of a Great Thinker
A great thinker can …

See the wisdom of big-picture thinking,
Unleash the potential of focused thinking,
Discover the joy of creative thinking,
Recognize the importance of realistic thinking,
Release the power of strategic thinking,
Feel the energy of possibility thinking,
Embrace the lessons of reflective thinking,
Question the acceptance of popular thinking,
Encourage the participation of shared thinking,
Experience the satisfaction of unselfish thinking and
Enjoy the return of bottom-line thinking.

- Author Unknown

BAM! OBAMA!

It’s one of those “I didn’t think I’d see this in my lifetime moments.” African American Barak Obama won the Iowa Presidential Democratic Caucus and pundits predict he has a firm shot at Tuesday’s New Hampshire primary.

Damn. What a refreshing political landscape!

The Jan. 4 edition of the New York Daily News said it all. BAM! Barak Obama Wins! To see front page coverage throughout the world, check out photos featuring the Obama/Huckabee Iowa Caucus wins @ http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post_group/ObamaHQFeature/CCqB

Take stock of each backdrop. Within the first 24 hour news cycle, reporters gave kudos to Obama’s savvy campaign machine. Speeches were on message and organizers detailed each photo op, brilliantly staging the “winner’s circle” speech with a colorful mosaic of American champions ranging from working class moms to gentlemen of means.

All colors. All creeds. All optimistic!

Obama bio brief: Kenyan father and Anglo mother from Kansas meet at the University of Hawaii; brilliant son attends Harvard; excels as grassroots community advocate and civil rights attorney in Chicago, ascends to service as junior Senator of Illinois.

On Jan. 3: Obama inspires a hopeful middle America to meet the new multicultural mainstream. Add the “Super O” factor (endorsed by Oprah) and you have a recipe for success.

Obama’s talented team of supporters understand the fine art of social networking. He’s built his own brand by artfully encouraging others to have a voice and become part of the process. Step One: Take a stand; register to vote!

Let’s hope Obama’s momentum propels him to Super Tuesday (Feb 5), also known as the Southern primaries. He’s boldly stepped where no Black man has gone before. Now, he’s stretching his capabilities in his quest to emancipate populations from the bondage of global terrorism, sub-standard education, spiraling housing prices, the energy crisis, crime, soaring health care costs and other societal ills.

Remember, he formally announced his candidacy less than a year ago during Black History Month 2007 in Springfield, Illinois, the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln and emancipator of the slaves. Could there be parallels?

Is America truly ready to be free? Can we elect a Black man for President? Are residents in all 50 states as educated, energized and color blind as Iowa? Are we brave enough?

Oh—we still have 10 months until Election Day.

NEW YEAR, CLEAN SLATE

Similar to a blank computer screen, I’m ridding myself of clutter and initiating a feng shui state of mind. Harmony and abundance are powerful success tools.

It feels good! The extra space in my office, home and mind allows me to approach 2008 projects with a fresh, clean perspective. Peace leads to progress on many levels.

Try these organizational techniques to speed your achievement:

> Get help. Why wait? Delegate @ http://www.GetFridays.com

> Go digital. Don’t save what's online 24/7.

> Go green. Don't print; save trees!

> Back up important documents via portable hard drive or Google Apps.

> Prioritize and avoid cluttering “time wasters”
* become a one minute, one (computer) screen wonder
* moderate email, phone, text, computer, TV use
* tackle the top of your to do list first, then work your way down
* limit interruptions from colleagues, family, friends
* let others know your time is valuable ... usually they’ll respond in kind (if not, oh well)

> Be proactive
* organize important family ID’s, medical info and financial documents
* devise emergency plans; visit http://www.RedCross.org

Ask yourself this important question. If I had to vacate my home in 15 minutes, what would I really need, in addition to my loved ones?

Is everything conveniently stored in one place, say in a backpack? What’s the plan for our family, friends, company/school in case of an emergency?

By now, you know more than 500,000 Kenyans are displaced following last week’s questionable elections, said to have been rigged. While conditions are grave and food is running scarce, parents testify they’re fortunate to have narrowly escaped violence after desperately snatching children to safety amidst death, discontent and destruction. While their lives are uncertain in overcrowded, unsanitary camps, they're alive. Everyone didn't make it; many succumbed to bullets, burned alive or brutally beaten.

Let go of what you really don’t need. None of us can afford to have extra baggage dragging us down.

HELP CHEIKH ANTA DIOP* UNIVERSITY
Google search; click translate this page - http://www.ucad.sn/

“Africa’s best universities, the grand institutions that educated a revolutionary generation of nation builders and statesmen, doctors and engineers, writers and intellectuals, are collapsing. It is partly a self-inflicted crisis of mismanagement and neglect, but it is also a result of international development policies that for decades have favored basic education over higher learning even as a population explosion propels more young people than ever toward the already strained institutions.”

“Africa’s Storied Colleges, Jammed and Crumbling” - New York Times, May 20, 2007

Dakar, Senegal’s Cheikh Anta Diop University (CADU) needs help. City College of New York (CCNY) Corporate Communications recently examined this global challenge, devising solutions the United Nations and government leaders should deploy. This exercise allowed CCNY students to take stock of the value and significance of their “US brand” education—which continues to surpass many countries in quality and content, providing the global currency Americans need to succeed.

Serving as theoretical educational consultants, these CCNY Media Communication Arts (MCA) majors devised brilliant advocacy, fundraising and awareness strategies. Strategies their instructor hopes to ultimately weave into an integrated marketing communications assistance plan, tentatively themed “University Saviors.”

Throughout Africa, despite hardships and limited resources, young people grasp the brass ring of education and pass matriculation exams (US high school equivalent) in record numbers. Once in college, they crowd six deep into dormitory singles and often arrive two to three hours before class, just to get a seat within hearing distance; amplification, audio visual and tech support is virtually non-existent.

Our group challenge: Executives (students) were “on loan” from CCNY, armed with a $12 million budget for 2008. Proposed solutions to attract US corporate and philanthropic support:

> Generate aggressive media awareness campaign

> Create “Bring CADU Back from the Brink Tank” featuring leading corporate philanthropists, entrepreneurs and scholars

> Involve Oprah, Bono/U2, Angelina Jolie, others linked to Africa and education causes

> Stimulate Fortune 500 corporate support

> Start executive management training program

* execs and entrepreneurs work and teach in Senegal

* young African talent ultimately secure internships, work at US corporations, expand US global workforce and perspectives

> Launch donor networks via Facebook and MySpace

> Initiate partnerships between leading government, academic agencies

> Announce environmentally-friendly architectural and interior design competition for new dorms and campus buildings, with CADU/US college students handling construction and management as part of study abroad/exchange programs

> Establish financial accountability/oversight offices in Dakar

And that’s just a sample of more than 30 creative, sustainable concepts! Know this: in the words of “inspirationalist,” Dr. Wayne Dyer, “once an idea is digitized, it ceases to be ephemeral thought and becomes real!”

Ideas initiate momentum. Momentum motivates people. People mobilize to build critical mass. Mass movements bring about change.

In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, “Be the change you want to see in the world!”

My brilliant students inspire and motivate me to reach further, dig deeper. This month, I celebrate the sixth anniversary of my cherished trip to the “motherland.” Somehow, I feel my head and heart will soon stretch across the pond to link college students in West Harlem with their comrades in West Africa.

I know you’ll be there to lend a hand. Stay tuned!

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* Considered one of the greatest African scholars of the 20^th Century, Cheikh Anta Diop (1923-1986) was a Senegalese historian, anthropologist and “racialist scientist,” according to Wikipedia. Diop understood the power of perseverance and research. His original thesis—whereby he argued ancient Egypt was a Black African culture—was initially rejected by colleagues at the University of Paris. Over nearly a decade, he reworked and strengthened his evidence and was awarded the Ph.D. degree in 1960. Upon his death, the University of Dakar was renamed in his honor.

BRILLIANT BENAZIR BHUTTO

“She became …
‘Our ethos, our emblem, our anthem, our credo, our poetry, our song …’
Now—she’s dead.”

Pakistani American Mourner
“Little Pakistan,” Midwood, Brooklyn - USA
WNBC-TV, Friday, December 28, 2007

One day after the assassination of Benazir Bhutto, I was moved by this quote on TV, painfully uttered by a fellow New Yorker. While the mourner immigrated to the US years ago, it was as if she was on the streets of Rawalpindi, Islamabad or Lahore … in her homeland … a world away.

“Don’t you understand?” she exclaimed. “We’ve been robbed!”

While I’m not Pakistani, I understand the world was certainly robbed by the death of Benazir Bhutto, former Prime Minister of Pakistan and head of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). I learned more about Bhutto in the past week than I made an effort to know decades before. And, I’m not alone.

Think about the “timing” of her untimely demise. During the holidays, most of the world pauses to reflect and recharge. Bhutto expired when we would perhaps pay most attention. A proclaimed fatalist, she was fearless, yet secure in the unknown.

Revered by her people and described as “elegant, eloquent, complex and brilliant,” Bhutto was educated at Harvard and Oxford Universities. Yet, you don’t need an Ivy League education to understand this woman was a “disciple of democracy.” From the grave, she urges us to speak up and speak out about what it means to be free.

As a woman of color, her death forces me to take stock of my role on the planet; recommit to what matters; cast off self-imposed shackles.

Make a resolution … start (or join) a revolution!

People like Bhutto get it. The PPP’s new party leaders, her widow Asif Ali Zardari and 19-year old son Bilawal Bhutto Zardari—they get it. You might as well stand for something, before someone or something literally stops you dead in your tracks.

While I now somewhat “get” Bhutto’s impact on global affairs … I still have a lot to learn. Thanks, Benazir, for helping to open my eyes and heart a little wider.

Whatever your faith, keep Pakistanis and the Muslim community in your prayers. Also pray for Iraqis, Jews, Christians, Americans and the military; yes, there’s still a war on!

And, use your Google time wisely. Surf the web to learn more about Bhutto’s role as a global freedom operative. You might just get hooked on the concept of democracy.

Freedom costs. Many pay with their lives. Respect and honor their sacrifice.

2008: EXPAND YOUR EDUCATION NETWORK
(a.k.a. THE PERSON SITTING BESIDE YOU IN CLASS
COULD BE YOUR FUTURE BOSS!)

The past few weeks have been filled with pride as I edit nearly 100 exams and final projects! 2008 marks the start of my third year as an adjunct university professor—a perfect complement to my consulting career and something I truly love.

I find if you cultivate a strong learning community (class), things really start to take off! After a few weeks, individuals open up and motivate each other toward success. A quick New Year’s lesson: Develop your intellectual, civic and social networks and individual/collective success will surely follow!

This year, I’m looking forward to a bright new year of talented souls and intellectual exchange. If you’d like to hone your communications skills, why not consider a writing class? Whether you’re in investment banking, global investigations and securities or public affairs, everyone is strengthening their communications techniques. There’s still time to register for Spring ‘08 at http://scps.nyu.edu; “Writing on the Job” and “Writing Essentials for Public Relations and Corporate Communications,” are taught by yours truly!

Writers continue to be in short supply and hot demand; it’s “the” skill of the 21^st Century. Thus, we all have the capacity to become a “knowledge workers,” to quote management guru Peter F. Drucker. Blogs offer the opportunity to immediately publish our vision, pitch ideas and push unique perspectives into the world!

Before you know it, a new semester begins at City College of New York (CCNY), where I teach several Advertising/Public Relations courses in the Media Communications Arts (MCA) department. Last semester, I was honored to teach sophomores, juniors and seniors. This gave me a wonderful perspective of young talent. Corporate, entertainment and sports managers, get ready for some outstanding talent!

Students in my Intro to PR class were so talented … it was scary (glad I’m not in direct competition with them for a gig). I remain impressed, even though the semester ended weeks ago. Their diligence has me truly looking forward to seeing them again at the end of January for Corporate Communications. And, I’m working now to develop rigorous assignments to propel them to achieve the careers of their dreams.

Set high standards … individuals believe, achieve and succeed! In two weeks, the illustrious Intro to PR class crafted full-scale integrated marketing communications (IMC) campaigns. Student-selected topics included:

> New York Knicks reputation enhancement campaign;

> Tyler Perry Meet the Brown’s national movie premiere;

> Je Nais Se Quoi launch—new magazine for New York women;

> D by Dior launch—Christian Dior extension line complete with “for impact” advocacy campaign for Dress for Success;

> Healthy Living lifestyle/wellness campaign for the college market; and

> Nas’ new CD “Ni**er”—Crisis Management, including sit downs and dialogues with entertainment moguls, politicians and community advocates working together to address and rectify urban challenges.

While these young minds enter the full-time job market in 2009; they’re available now for internships! Tomorrow: advocacy recommendations for Africa’s Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar, Senegal, submitted by brilliant CCNY Corporate Communications colleagues.