Message from Philadelphia Chapter President

Monique Berry leads the defending BDPA Chapter of the Year. Her chapter is the fifth largest in the nation and it continues to grow in terms of influence and activity. Monique shared the following message with her chapter members, sponsors and supporters:

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Last month in front of an audience of nearly 40 people, Chuck Stewart, founder and President of Computer Techies LLC, WURD 900am radio personality as co-host of "Tech Talk Philly" spoke on the topic "Empowering Yourself with Your Own Technology."

Leading off with the question "How did PlayStation 3 (PS3) make technology history?"; Chuck began lively discussion about convergence. Former HSCC student and scholarship recipient, Jon Hernandez answered the question dead on with his recount of how a cluster of PS3 consoles was used to solve a complex math equation in record time. The ensuing conversation touched on topics such as the innovation of iTunes and Apple's transition from PowerPC to Intel processors allowing Mac users to run Windows.

Chuck also spoke of how the video game Enter the Matrix revolutionized the entertainment industry by effectively blurring the line between Hollywood films and next-generation video games. This very interactive session, enjoyed by all in attendance ended with advice to our youth to set goals and write them down for reference at a later date.

Thank you to everyone that responded to our request for volunteers for our February Changing Expectations Career Tour. A special thanks to Ellen Rutledge, a Wyeth representative in BDPA and a member of Wyeth's IS Diversity Council. Ellen offered to coordinate a team of Wyeth employees to present career information to approximately 264 students at Pepper Middle School.

Eleanor Roosevelt said "Do one thing every day that scares you." I'm not sure about every day, but taking risks does take practice, and if we keep doing the same things we already know, in the same way, our willingness to dare to be different atrophies. Each day, week, month, or year that goes by without doing at least one thing we weren't sure we could do, we lose more of our ability to Just Try Stuff.

We should not take foolish risks, but we don't want to be like Hem of "Who Moved My Cheese" either. So consider this, as Eleanor Roosevelt also said: "Do something today you don't think you can do." Consider volunteering to speak at a chapter program meeting or facilitating a workshop on a technical subject of interest to you. Do you know how to use Microsoft Word, Excel or Access? If you do, you could teach MS Word during a SITES class. You could even attend a chapter meeting or the annual conference.

Are you where you want to be professionally? I challenge you to be conscious and deliberate about moving out of your "Comfort Zone" as often as possible. Live your life on purpose. Do something that scares you EVERY SINGLE DAY.

We are always an email away. Thank you for all of your support as members.

Monique F. Berry, President
BDPA Philadelphia
Vision: Partnering for Continued Growth!

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I hope that someone reading this message with share some BDPA-love with Monique by using the POST A COMMENT feature below!

Putting BDPA Foundation on Facebook

Chris Bomar agreed to serve as our project manager for an effort to get the BDPA Education & Technology Foundation onto Facebook. He is currently looking for any volunteers interested in helping us put our non-profit on Facebook. Are you willing to step up as a volunteer on this project?

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center Technology Tour (Cincinnati)

BDPA Cincinnati chapter is the 5th largest chapter in the nation. The chapter arranged for a unique Black Family Technology Awareness Week event at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (NURFC).

NURFC is currently experiencing record attendance from the public to see the unique exhibits. However, BDPA and NURFC plans to take you behind the scenes with a Technology Tour of the Center. BETF-Blog Readers are encouraged to come out and explore how the use of technology has enhanced the display of our history in this tour of the NURFC from a technological perspective!

The guest speaker for this technology tour is Ronald Williams (NURFC Technology Director of Technology). Enjoy refreshments while networking and learning the "behind the scenes" technology perspective of the Freedom Center.

Here are the logistics:

Date: Thursday March 20, 2008
Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm (bring your business cards!)
Cost: This event is free

Where: National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
50 East Freedom Way, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
For more information, you can contact Tashawa Perrin (BDPA Cincinnati Professional Development Director) by phone (513.956-0636) or email.

Wayne Hicks is Guest on Harambee Radio Network * Mar 10 @ 8pm ET

Saadiq Mance is the managing director for Emerging Minds. He invited me to be a guest on an Internet radio show he is hosting Monday, March 10 @ 8pm ET. He wants me to talk about the Electronic Village blog, The AfroSpear, society news, and politics.

Emerging Minds has created a unique alliance with the Harambee Radio Network. Harambee radio features explosive commentary from some of the most respected activists from all over the world. During the live shows, please call in toll-free and let your voice be heard at (866) 851-5279.

When the show is not live, there is a constant 24/7 stream rebroadcasting the live shows from the previous week. Anyhow, I hope that some of you can tune in on Monday night. Talk shows are always better when there are guests dialing in to ask provocative questions!

Service Oriented Architecture (Los Angeles)

BDPA Los Angeles Chapter Webinar

Speaker: Simon Boyce-Maynard

Topic: Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) is a computer systesm architectural style for creating and using business processes, packaged as services, throughout their life cycle.

This is a 'MEMBERS ONLY' event. Be sure that your membership is current as the meeting link and conference number will be sent out for the BDPA Global Database.

A couple of reminders:

• Simon will begin promptly at 6:45 PM PST
• (Please plan to be on time as we are starting a bit early in consideration of a couple of our east coast BDPA chapters who plan to join us.)
• You will receive your normal Evite prior to the meeting. Be sure to save this date and time.

The guest speaker, Simon Maynard-Boyce, is a dedicated BDPA member and has shown his commitment to Los Angeles area youth by volunteering as a HSCC Student Instructor for the past five years. Professionally he is a Systems Architect with Strategic Vision Consulting in Los Angeles, CA. Simon has 12+ years of experience in Software Development and Systems Architecture. He has extensive entertainment experience, providing expertise to major clients in the areas of Film, Music, Broadcasting, Production (including Pre & Post Production), Radio and Live Events. He has extensive operational and strategic experience in the areas of Digital Asset Management, Content Management, Digital Rights Management, Digital Media Process Automation and Piracy Protection.

Giveaway Contest * Young Black Professional Guide

Drumbeats from Young Black Professional Guide let us know about a giveaway contest that they are hosting over the next week. They are encouraging villagers to make a donation to a non-profit this week. They look to announce ten winners on March 14th. The winners will receive a copy of Bill Cosby's book, Come on People: On the Path from Victims to Victors.

I encourage you to make your donation to either the BDPA Education & Technology Foundation or the Cincinnati Business Incubator. You can click on either link to make an immediate online donation that will provide you with an immediate receipt. Use the receipt to become eligible for the YBP Guide contest. At the same time you will be supporting two non-profits that I believe in very much!

Payroll Pledge via Annual Employee Giving Campaign

BETF proudly accepted pledges through the AT&T Employee Giving Campaign made by Gary Justin and Gibran McDuffie. The AT&T Employee Giving Campaign is an annual event designed to create awareness for non-profit organizations while encouraging employees to make a pledge to the charities of their choice. The donations made by these two BDPA members will be used to support programs and services put on by BDPA chapters in Los Angeles and Chicago.

Our hope is that other BDPA members will consider making payroll deductions during annual giving campaigns put on by United Way, Combined Federal Campaign or the company itself. Others may simply want to make a one-time donation directly to BETF in support of the youth education programs taking place all over the country.

Please join us in giving a soulclap to Gary and Gibran!

100 Niche Job Boards for Web Workers

Soulclap to Bootstrapper for helping those IT workers with web design or networking capabilities who are unemployed or under-employed. To make your job search a little less complicated, Bootstrapper compiled a list of the top 100 niche job boards that will direct you to the best Web jobs out there. Online forums, staffing services, and government boards are just some of the resources that follow. These websites are devoted to helping programmers, networkers, designers, system administrators, and other Web workers land the perfect job.

Click here to see 100 Web-worker job boards!

Going Geek is the New Chic (Chicago)

BDPA Chicago Program Meeting: 'Going Geek is the New Chic'

What does it take to build a successful career in the IT Industry?

Click here to access Youtube video

Anyone interested in pursuing a long-term career in IT should attend the next BDPA Chicago Program Meeting on March 21^st featuring Milt Haynes, Past BDPA President and Founder of Blacks Gone Geek, a social networking initiative dedicated to promoting Blacks in Technology.

Milt Haynes has been tracking hot jobs in the IT Industry for over 30 years and he'll be there to share important and timely research results that you won't be able to find anywhere else. Several IT recruiters and hiring managers will be there to share their perspectives too.

So if you're looking for a job or just looking to stay abreast of the changes coming down the pike, come out to the BDPA Chicago Program Meeting on March 21^st. Be there or be square!!

Meeting Logistics:

Event: BDPA Chicago Program Meeting

Date: March 21, 2008

Time: 6:30 to 9:00 p.m.

Location: IBM Training Center, 71 S. Wacker. Chicago, IL

(312) 575-8503

milt@blacksgonegeek.org

Featured Speaker:

Milt Haynes (Chair of the BDPA Chicago Corporate Advisory Council) is a sought after motivational speaker, coach and mentor and has helped thousands advance their careers in IT. Milt Haynes is the founder of Blacks Gone Geek, a social networking initiative dedicated to promoting Blacks in Technology. Milt uses blogs, podcasts, wikis, Facebook groups, Yahoogroups and his web site, to network with an online community of over 20,000 IT professionals.

Daniel Puente Wins Eli Lilly Scholarship for BDPA Students

BDPA Education & Technology Foundation (BETF) announced one of the recipients of the Eli Lilly and Company Scholarship for BDPA Students. The purpose of the Eli Lilly Scholarship is to recognize outstanding minority students, with an interest in information technology, who make significant contributions to society. Applicants must excel academically, show exceptional leadership potential, and make an impact on their communities through service to others. Eli Lilly determines the scholarship winners by review of application, essay, and letters of recommendation.

“Eli Lilly and Company continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to the development of tomorrow’s leaders within the information technology industry,” said Wayne Hicks, BETF Executive Director. “The BDPA Foundation is pleased to work with Eli Lilly to help cultivate these future leaders.”

The first scholarship recipient is Daniel Puente, a high school senior at the Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Magnet Center School of Business and Management. Ranked 15th among 128 in his graduating class, he maintains a 3.5 GPA. Daniel has been a member of BDPA Dallas Chapter since the summer of 2006. He plans to compete on Dallas chapter's high school computer competition team at the 30th annual BDPA Technology Conference in Atlanta later this year. It was actually by an odd twist of fate that Daniel ended up in the program. He was in a summer technology enrichment program, Extreme Techno Camp, at El Centro College and was recruited by Letitia Andrews (El Centro College professor and past president of BDPA Dallas Chapter).

Daniel Puente will be awarded a one-time $3,000 scholarship that he plans to use at Texas A&M University where he will pursue a degree in Computer Information Systems. Daniel may use this scholarship to cover the cost of tuition, fees, books, room and board, and other college-related expenses.

Matching Funds * Bank of America Foundation

We are pleased to report that Bank of America Foundation agreed to match a $50 donation made this week by one of their associates, Shamiek Brown. Shamiek is a past board member of our BDPA Charlotte chapter.

The Bank of America Foundation matching funds will be used to support BDPA education and technology programs.

Does your company have a matching funds program?

HSCC Testimonial: Evan Hilliard (2000-2001)

The purpose of our blog is to encourage you to donate to the BDPA Education & Technology Foundation. Quite frankly, we need your support with donations, payroll deductions via United Way or Combined Federal Campaign, legacy bequests in final wills & testaments and other investments in scholarship and endowment funds so that we can support these young people.

For example, how can we find more powerful young people like Evan Hilliard? We asked Evan to share his testimonial about the High School Computer Competition (HSCC) program. Here are his words:

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"My name is Evan J. Hilliard. I am 23 years old and currently reside in Charlotte NC. I am a Computer Operator for Novant Health (a large health care provider here in the southeast) as well as a Lab Facilitator for Central Piedmont Community College (one of the biggest community college systems in the country). I participated in the BDPA HSCC in 2000 and 2001.

When I first learned about the BDPA, I had already been into computers and technology for quite some time. The HSCC program seemed to be right up my alley to develop new skills as well as the opportunity to network amongst my fellow I.T. peers. What I thought would initially be something cool to do for a summer quickly turned into very lengthy and life changing experience.

I cannot put into word how much I grew as an IT professional, but just as a person interacting with an organization that had a family feel to it. There are so many positives about being on a HSCC team … I do not even know where to begin. You learn how build team work skills, working with a deadline, presentation skills, leadership development, networking skills, research\creative skills, technical skills…..the list is almost endless.

The only negative the ever comes to mind is the amount of students who are unaware and do not take advantage of all the wonderful things HSCC program has to offer. After the HSCC, I went on to participate in the first IT Showcase and served as a mentor/volunteer for students in my local chapter as well as the national level.

I hope that by sharing my experiences and knowledge with rest of my peers that it will motivate everyone to get involved and come together to do some great things. I thank the BDPA for all of the wonderful people and experiences I have had throughout the years and I only expect more from the premiere IT organization in the nation.

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Take a moment to share some BDPA-Love with Evan in the comments section below.

Top Ten Black Blogs (Mar 2008)

Have you ever wondered where you can find excellent bloggers of African descent out in the so-called afrosphere?

That was my question when I saw a list of so-called influential bloggers with no people of color included. Often, it appears that Black folks are only blogging about entertainment or hip-hop issues. I wondered if there were other Black-owned and operated blogs out there.

Today we announce the Villager's Black Blog Rankings (BBR) for March 2008 with over 850 blogs in the mix. We began tracking the Top Ten Black Blogs in September 2007 with only 75 blogs listed. The number of blogs on the list grew to 602 by the beginning of the year. Last month the BBR listed 751 Black blogs. Post a comment below if you are a Black Blogger interested in learning what your ranking is this month!

We need your help First, we hope other blogs link to us so that more blog readers are aware of the diversity of thought in the afrosphere. Second, we remain open to ideas and suggestions from all villagers on ways that this project can be more useful to you. Finally, I really want to create a nice button that folks can place on their own website or blog pointing folks to the Villager's Black Blog Ranking perhaps with a visual of a rhino on it. Any creative folks out there with ideas?

It is worth noting that On The Black Hand Side (BBR #238) is placing a wonderful spotlight on Black Bloggers with their '20 Questions With' interviews. This is outstanding opportunity to learn more about talented brothers and sisters that you see listed in the Villager's Black Blog Rankings.

Anyhow, with no further ado, here are the Top Ten Black Blogs for March 2008:

1. The Bossip: Bossip.com (Authority: 1,217 / Rank: 1,887) - [Entertainment] Bossip.com holds down the BBR #1 slot for the second month in a row. It is worth noting that Bossip.com is the first Black blog that we've seen break into the top 2,000 blogs in the world ranking! Bossip.com is a fast growing urban-focused new media property that draws a loyal following of young and influential trend setters who are up to date with what’s hot in society. The Bossip relies on tips for photos, ideas and such. I encourage villagers to give 'em a tip that they are the #1 Black blog in the universe.


2. Pam Spaulding: Pam's House Blend (Authority: 1,143 / Rank: 2,136) - [Politics] This is a prolific blog averaging over 110,000 hits per month. Last month, she discovered that some things are more important than blogging. Pam took time to share tips on growing your blog. She wrote, "Are there secrets to getting eyeballs? Hmmm. I don't think so, though having religious right nutcases calling you "a leading source of radical homosexual propaganda, anti-Christian bigotry, and radical transgender advocacy" probably helps. Seriously, there is no one suggestion to gain larger readership. It's luck, timing, and blogwhoring at other sites similar to yours to entice readers to take a peek at your stuff. Having your own "voice" that stands out as different as well as authentic and true to yourself helps a lot."


3. Angel Laws: Concrete Loop* (Authority: 1,100 / Rank: 2,291) - [Entertainment] This is a Black celebrity entertainment blog with gossip, music, celebrity interviews, pictures and such. Angel Laws, a 23-year-old college student in Jacksonville, NC, started this blog as a hobby. It is now one of the top-ranked Black blogs in the world. Angel recently walked the red carpet herself. Last month, Angel collaborated with Love B. Scott (BBR #24), one of the fastest growing blogs on our list.


4. ESKAY: Nah Right (Authority: 790 / Rank: 3,916) - [Entertainment] This is another Black blogger that is steadily moving up in the rankings. Some say that Nah Right is the most important East Coast hip-hop blog there is. There was a focus on eye candy when he began his blog in May 2005. The growth of his blog grew exponentially when he began to focus on music and entertainment. Are there any Nah Right fans out there?


5. Fresh Crunkjuice: Crunk & Disorderly* (Authority: 713 / Rank: 4,646) - [Entertainment] This blog was created in August 2004, however, it didn't get serious until May 2005. This is an active entertainment blog that tackles the world of African American celebrity gossip. From Kanye West to the Reverend Al Sharpton, C&D takes no prisoners. This blog has admirers in some unusual places.


6. Oliver Willis: Oliver Willis (Authority: 625 / Rank: 5,701) - [Politics] Oliver is a fan of the Washington Redskins. His blog alternates between posts on the NFL and presidential politics. Oliver has been taking flak about his views since he began his blog in April 2005. One thing I'll say about the brother ... he posts more times per day than anyone else on the list!


7. Natasha Eubanks: Young, Black & Fabulous (Authority: 524 / Rank: 11,410) - [Entertainment] Natasha is a 25-year old law student in Washington DC. Her blog is one of the hottest Black celebrity gossip sites on the net. Natasha began blogging in June 2005 when there were few Black celebrity gossip blogs. Natasha says that her blog '...focuses on gossip, enteratinment journalism, fashion, fabulousness, and foolywang'. Can someone tell me what foolywang means?


8. La Shawn Barber: La Shawn Barber's Corner (Authority: 507 / Rank: 8,181) - [Social Commentary] Formerly a political blogger, La Shawn writes about faith, culture, digital technology and, occasionally, how these three things intersect. She is a freelance writer and entrepreneur who consults with interested bloggers. Her blog began in Nov 2003. I 'met' Sis. Barber during NPR Blogger Roundtables that we did in Nov 2007 and Jan 2008.


9. Jack Turner and Jill Tubman: Jack and Jill Politics* (Authority: 430 / Rank: 10,323) - [Politics] - We welcome this blog to the BBR Top 10 for the first time! J&JP offers a Black bourgeois perspective on American politics. The 2008 election cycle provides remarkable content choices for Jack (real name: Baratunde Thurston), Jill and other guest bloggers. This blog showed up as BBR #31 in Sep 2007 rankings and rose consistently for the past six months. I strongly encourage all villagers to take a moment and check out this insightful blog!


10. Gina McCauley: What About Our Daughters* (Authority: 382 / Rank: ) - [Social Commentary] This blog was created by a sister who believes that now is the time for organized action to combat the destructive portrayals of Black women in popular culture. 2007 was a remarkable year for this blogger. Sis. McCauley was named one of the 25 most influential African Americans by Essence Magazine.

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HONORABLE MENTION (11-25): Afro Bella*, The Field Negro*, Young, Black, and Fabulous (blogspot version), How To Split An Atom, Entre mes Lignes, Rod 2.0:Beta, Real Talk NY Provides The Latest Hip Hop News*, Keith Boynkin*, Ill Doctrine, Sandra Rose, A Hot Mess!, Darla Mack News & Reviews, Clutch Magazine, Love B. Scott and Republic of T

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The only qualification is that the blogger needs to be of African descent. The blogger does not have to be a member of The AfroSpear or the Afrosphere Bloggers Association, although we invite all Black bloggers to join either (or both) of those organizations.

Those blogs with an asterisk after their name are 2007 Black Weblog Award winners. This is the final month that we will be recognizing the 2007 winners. Next month we will use the asterisk to let you know which of these leading bloggers are members of The AfroSpear.

Black Blog Rankings lean heavily on the Technorati Authority and Rank score for each blog. The Technorati authority and rank numbers are shown in parenthesis. The authority figure includes a number of factors including the number of blogs that are linked to this blogger over the past six months. The rank number indicates how many blogs are between the person listed and the #1 ranked blog in the world.

We do think that these Black blogs are important spheres of influence. Let them know that you appreciate the work they have put in over the past few months and years to get on this list. My vision is that many of the brothers and sisters on this month's BBR will join us later this year at the Blogging While Brown conference in Atlanta, GA on July 25-27, 2008.

Finally, I encourage you to provide some link-love to this post so that others can learn about the Villager's Black Blog Rankings! Next step is yours ... what say u?

Final Call for Papers | BDPA IT Showcase

Soulclap to Perry Carter for this information!

Bracketology 2.0

BDPA IT Showcase Marches to Math Madness!


© Jupiter Images

Computer Models + Bracketology = Field of 65

The NCAA's Rating Percentage Index (RPI) was created in 1981 to provide supplemental data for NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Committees to evaluate the best teams for at-large selections and seedings within regional 'pods' in quests of championship brackets. The RPI is intended to be used as one of many resources available to NCAA committees in their selection, seeding and bracketing process. Nonetheless, the RPI merely is an evaluation tool complimenting the subjectivity of each committee member.

Even today, complex algorithms and computer models cannot accurately evaluate qualitative factors such as games missed by coaches or key players, travel difficulties, team performances within the last twelve games, or emotional aspects of specific games. Someday, expert systems may be able to accomplish this goal--but how?

High school and college students already know this equation. Now is the time to really do the math! Do something innovative about IT. BDPA is looking for students in high school, junior college, trade schools, or universities who may not only serve as Chairmen and Chairwomen of 'The Boards' and command respect on the courts, but are ready to hoop-IT-up by earning awards, scholarships, and internship opportunities simply by writing a very short paper and telling a panel of judges about IT. Industry mentors are available for the assist.

Parents, teachers, and coaches, are asked to download our March 2008 issue of bdpatoday, and review its IT Showcase Handbook enclosure with any student. Then, have him or her identify any profitable or costly activity directly related to the multi-billion dollar sports and entertainment industry, and go for the slam dunk! Use our IT Showcase to write about a new or favorite technology, an advanced math concept, or explain an improved software (simulations, graphics, or statistics) application used to help teams or leagues in any sport become more competitive. What would IT take?

Ballers! Your Final Call for Papers is March 28, 2008.

Barbara Ellis Appointed to BETF Board of Directors

BDPA Education & Technology Foundation (BETF), a tax-exempt non-profit organization that provides financial support for education and technology programs of Black Data Processing Associates (BDPA), today announced the appointment of Barbara Ellis as a member of the BETF Board of Directors. Ms. Ellis is a seasoned IT executive with more than 30 years experience in strategic planning initiatives.

"I am excited to work with Barbara in her new role as a Board member to continue delivering value to BETF stakeholders, students and sponsors,” said Wayne Hicks, BETF executive director. "She comes to us highly recommended by her peers in the industry. Barbara’s executive experiences with IBM over the past 30 years as well as her current entrepreneurial efforts make her uniquely qualified to assist BETF. BETF is fortunate to have her in this leadership role."

During her career with the IBM Corporation, she held management and executive positions in IBM Global Services, Sales and Distribution, Information Systems, Finance, Manufacturing, Business Transformation and e-Business initiatives. Barbara led global strategic transformation initiatives for IBM in the areas of Customer Relationship Management, Supply Chain Management, ibm.com, IBM Technical Support, and Sales.

In addition to her functional responsibilities, Barbara was also a leader in IBM’s highly acclaimed diversity imperative for the advancement of women serving as Co-Chair of the IBM U. S. Women’s Task Force, with a particular emphasis on initiatives for Multicultural Women. In 2004, Barbara established her consulting business, Barbara J. Ellis Consulting, LLC. She now consults with clients to achieve bottom line results through the implementation of strategic priorities and objectives.

“I accepted the BETF Board appointment in order to provide scholarships and other funding for the education of disadvantaged children in our community,” said Ms. Ellis. “I look forward to seeing the practical application of our funding mission over the coming months.”

Judaea Lane: MetLife Volunteer Service Award Nominee

BETF nominated Judaea Lane, BDPA New York chapter president, for the MetLife Volunteer Service Award. Our hope is to earn up to $5,000 volunteer grant as a result of Judaea's efforts with BDPA. Many corporations have volunteer grant programs. Our foundation would love to work with you if such is the case at your company. Please check it out and let us know.

In the meantime, we thought we would share our nomination narrative for Judaea. The question that MetLife Volunteer Service Award Committee wanted us to answer was a simple one: What impact as your nominee had on your organization's work and the community?. Our answer was as follows:

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Judaea Lane served as president of the BDPA New York chapter in 2007. Her chapter is one of 50 BDPA chapters that my organization serves as fiscal agent. As such, I observed the impact that Ms. Lane had on BDPA and her community.

One measurement of her impact on BDPA New York chapter is membership growth. Her chapter grew by over 50% in a single year, ending the year as the second largest BDPA chapter in the nation. Judaea and her leadership team achieved this success because of dedication and focus placed into delivery of the organization’s mission – providing programs and services that advance the careers for people of color in the information technology industry.

The time commitment and overall value to her chapter is impossible to ignore. She hosts the monthly board meeting at her office. She chaired the board meetings and issued meeting notes on a timely basis. She serves as an ad hoc member of each department. She supports the newsletter with articles. Her contacts were critical in obtaining large corporate sponsorship commitments from Merck & Company, MetLife, UBS Investment Bank and others. On a national level, she represented her chapter at each of the quarterly board meetings. She was a registered attendee at the 2007 Nat'l BDPA Conference. Locally, she provides consistent support to the VP-Finance on chapter books & records. Judaea helps in the membership database reconciliation. She has been a presenter at a number of our monthly program meetings. It is impossible to overstate the importance that Judaea had in the success of BDPA New York chapter over the past year.

Judaea epitomizes the philosophy, “Each One Reach One, Each One Teach One”. She led her chapter to implement a comprehensive Student Information Technology Education & Scholarship (SITES) program. The SITES program allowed the chapter to reach their goal to “Bridge the Digital Divide” by reaching out to minority youths and offering workplace exposure via monthly workshops, advanced technology training opportunities and team-building skills. As a result, the New York community had creative and innovative students in the educational system with opportunities exhibit skill sets with caring BDPA New York chapter volunteers who are experienced IT professionals.

The signature program completed by Judaea’s chapter last year was local community outreach program for youths known as the High School Computer Competition (HSCC). HSCC provides outlet for corporations, students, educators and parents to come together in a valuable community efforts. Volunteer IT Professionals introduce high school students to various aspects of IT which include web application development and programming logic. The program also emphasizes the development of life-long learning skills such as team building, logical thinking and presentation.

Judaea tirelessly worked in 2007 to obtain funding necessary to pay for an all-expenses-paid trip for five students from the New York chapter program to compete in the 21st annual National BDPA High School Computer Competition held in Washington DC. These high school students attended workshops on Personal Development, Academic Development, Youth Entrepreneurship and Information Technology. The young people networked at corporate-sponsored luncheons and receptions, visited educational places in Washington DC; and networked with other talented high school students from around the nation. The five NY-area students did well in the 2007 National Competition, which consisted of a timed computerized written exam, oral questions and the development of a web application per specifications.

If it for these reasons that, I am proud to nominate Judaea Lane for the MetLife Volunteer Service Awards.

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Anyone want to second our nomination?

HSCC Alumni Student Khalia Braswell is National Academy Foundation Winner

Khalia Braswell is a High School Computer Competition (HSCC) alumni from our BDPA Charlotte chapter. She competed in national competition held in Washington DC last year. We were pleased to learn that she continues to excel in her senior year at a high-tech magnet program at Philip O. Berry Academy of Technology. Braswell is a student in the Academy of Information Technology at Berry, and Wachovia just hired her to work part-time on its network engineering team while she finishes school.

“It’s a huge opportunity and a way for me to get a step ahead on my future,” said Khalia.

That’s not all. Khalia’s experience in the academy helped her get into two top universities, opportunities to win scholarships and a trip to New York City to meet leaders from some of the world’s top companies. Khalia has been accepted to the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill and Virginia Tech. She’s still waiting to hear from Georgia Tech.

Khalia interned with Wachovia last summer on the bank’s network engineering team. As part of the job, she partnered with the project manager, writing updates for project plans and updating the team’s Web site.

“Now Wachovia’s offered me a part-time job, so I can learn more and get real experience,” said Khalia.

The Wachovia internship could also help Khalia pay for college. NAF offers college scholarships to outstanding students. Khalia wrote about her internship and was one of three students invited to participate at the National Academy Foundation Gala Dinner in New York City Dec. 10. She is shown in this photo with American Express CEO Kenneth Chennault.

“I couldn’t believe it when I got the call,” she said. “I had never been to New York before!”

Click here to read the rest of the story.

The $100 Laptop Computer (Richmond)

BDPA Richmond is the 3rd largest chapter in the nation. One reason is that they provide monthly program meetings for their members, sponsors and supporters. They meet tonight to talk about 'The $100 Laptop Computers!' that are being distributed to school-age children around the world. Children in the developing nations within Central America, South America, Africa, Middle East and Asia are taking advantage of this program.

Guest speaker Bill Manns will share background on the non-profit organization, One Laptop Per Child (OLPC). This organization sees this as a critical step in eradicating poverty. New technology ideas intrigue Mr. Manns and over the past year, he sought to learn more and to share knowledge gained about OLPC and Open Source systems with BDPA Richmond. Mr. Manns has more than 25 years of business development, leadership and information technology consulting experience. He is President/CEO of Associated Computer Professionals. Mr. Manns has been a BDPA member since the early 1990s and served as President of the Richmond Chapter in 2001-2003.

Here are the logistics for the meeting:

Date: Tuesday – February 26, 2008
Time: 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm

Location: Genworth Financial
6620 West Broad Street, Building 4
Richmond, VA 23230

For more information contact BDPA Richmond by email or phone (804.751-5171).

Technology Job Fair (Dallas)

BDPA Dallas chapter is the 13th largest chapter in the nation. The chapter leadership is serious about the BDPA mission to advance the careers of African Americans from the classroom to the boardroom within the information technology (IT) industry.

BDPA Dallas chapter and El Centro College join forces to host a Technology Job Fair. Dallas Metroplex employers are converging on El Centro and you need to be there. Dress professionally, bring plenty of resumes and talk with area employers about the career opportunities available for IT professionals.

Participating employers include:

• Blue Cross Blue Shield
• City of Arlington
• City of Garland
• Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport
• Dallas Area Rapid Transport
• JPMorgan Chase
• Microsoft Corporation
• and many more...

One of the exciting aspects of this Technology Job Fair is that Kai Dupe will be a featured speaker on the Second Life virtual revolution. Kai gave this presentation at the 2007 National BDPA Technology Conference in Washington DC. It was very well received by the participants.

Here are the logistics for the Technology Job Fair:


Date: Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Time: 4:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Place: El Centro College
801 S. Main Street; Dallas TX 75202

If you have questions or wish to discuss further you can reach out to Mike Henderson on (214) 860-2066 or click here to register.

HSCC Academy Kick-Off (Charlotte)

BDPA Charlotte chapter announced their HSCC Academy on Saturday, February 23rd. Students are invited to participate in a 10 week program to learn 3-tiered web development using ASP.NET, VB.NET, and MySQL from Charlotte’s top IT professionals. The HSCC Charlotte Academy focuses on career development skills necessary to be successful in today’s competitive environment.

Five students will be selected on the HSCC Charlotte national team to compete at the BDPA Technology Conference for thousands of dollars in college scholarships. These five students win an all-expenses paid trip to Atlanta, GA on August 6-9, 2008 to participate in the national competition. Click here for flyer with details on the HSCC Academy.

Here are the logistics for the kick-off:


When: Saturday, February 23, 2008
Time: 10:00 am
Cost: $50 registration per student.

Where: Wachovia E-Commerce Learning Lab
201 S. Tryon Street (Above Dean and Deluca)

If you have questions or wish to discuss further, you can contact Aaron Johnson. He can tell you about scholarships available to cover the $50 registration cost.

Why Does Twitter Exist?

I'm slow on the uptake with most technology. I don't have a Blackberry. I never use the camera or text features on my cell-phone. My daughters set up an I-Pod Shuffle that I received at a national conference a few years ago. I'm just slow on this stuff. So, it comes as no surprise that I don't get the point of Twitter. I don't see a business reason for using it ... and I can't imagine that others much care that I'm 'just chillin'.

Do you have a Twitter account? Click here to see mine.

Can you give me a clue? Why do you use Twitter?

Can You Provide Videogame Programmer Career Advice?

One of our HSCC alumni asked me the following question,

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"Do you know of any programs that promote/support minorities and women entering the videogame industry? I will be going to the University of North Carolina (Charlotte) in the fall to pursue a degree in Computer Science and a Certificate in Game Design and Development. I want to become a Lead Videogame Programmer.

I'm very excited about deciding to do so, and want to give myself as much preparation for the industry as possible. I would have loved to attend the Game Developers 2008 Conference in San Francisco this week, but unfortunately I am too young to be admitted inside. If you find out about any such programs, may you please announce their existence for other minority/female students like me? Thanks again for your reply."

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BETF-Blog Readers, do you have any thoughts you can share in the COMMENTS section below?

Merchandise Allocation: Aligning Technology and Business Priorities for the Customer (Atlanta)

BDPA Atlanta chapter is the 8th largest chapter in the nation. The chapter understands that many of us spend a great deal of our disposable income on consumables. As such, we might benefit from an 'inside' look at how major retailers handle their Information Technology departments. You are invited to learn learn how customers benefit from Macy's retail IT solutions. Dean Compton is a leader at Macy's who will talk on the topic, "Merchandise Allocation: Aligning Technology and Business Priorities for the Customer".

In his corporate IT role, Compton oversees development and delivery of solutions to improve the capabilities of Macy's merchants to create a better shopping experience for their customers. His areas of responsibility include merchandise financial and assortment planning, buying and ordering, allocation and replenishment, reporting and analytics.

The meeting will take place on Macy's property:

Date: Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Place: Macy's Systems and Technology
5985 State Bridge Road
Duluth, GA (678) 474-2000
I hope that all of our Atlanta-area readers are able to attend this event on February 27th. If you have questions or wish to discuss further you can leave a REPLY below or by phone (770.828-0603) or by email.

2008 BDPA Strategic Direction (Detroit)

BDPA Detroit is the 7th largest chapter in the nation. They want to network with African Americans and others in Motown's information technology industry. A networking event is scheduled for Thursday, February 21, 2008 at Techtown. The 2008 BDPA Detroit Leadership Team is available for power networking with chapter members and supporters. Learn more about the strategic direction of the chapter for 2008 and beyond.

Here are the logistics:

Date: Thursday, February 21, 2008
Time: 6:00 pm (refreshments); 7:00 pm (meeting starts)

Location: Techtown
440 Burroughs
Detroit, MI 48202

It is worth noting that an informal Afterglow gathering takes place at the MGM Grand in the "U Drink Me" Center Lounge. For more information you can contact the chapter by email or phone (313.438-3519).

BDPA Member Shapes the Future of Voting

Juan Gilbert has been a BDPA member since his college days at Miami (OH) University. He is now Dr. John Gilbert ... having earned his Ph.D. in computer science and becoming an associate professor at Auburn University. Juan is the academic advisor for the BDPA IT Institute. It goes without saying that we are very proud of what Juan has done ... but, even more excited about the future for this young brother.

Our United States Congress called Dr. Gilbert to testify next month on The Future of Voting. One of the hot issues in congress is the security and accessibility of voting technology. Everybody wants a better voting system so that we don't have elections stolen in Ohio or Florida ever again. Juan and two other scientists will share their most recent research and hands-on demonstrations of their voting technology.

I encourage our DC-based readers to attend this forum if you have ability to do so. The forum will include a lengthy Q&A session where participants will be encouraged to play the role of a hacker and ask "what if" questions.

Date: Thursday, March 6, 2008
Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, breakfast will be provided
Place: Room 1310, Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C.

If you can't be in Washington DC ... feel free to use the COMMENTS section below to ask Juan any questions about voting technology. He'll respond if you have questions or comments.

Performance, Image and Exposure (PIE)

Convergence of Enterprise and Gaming Technologies (Philadelphia)

BDPA Philadelphia chapter is the 6th largest chapter in the nation. One reason that Philadelphia is our defending 'Chapter of the Year' is because of the challenging monthly program meeting calendar.

The chapter's program meeting this month focuses on the convergence of enterprise and gaming technologies. Chuck Stewart is the owner and CEO of Computer Techies, a firm that offers network infrastructure design and maintenance, and support and training for computer technologies. Computer Techies provides synergy between technology and business through technology solutions. For 10 years, Computer Techies has provided support for small businesses in the Tri-State (PA, NJ, DE) area with technology solutions to fit the growing demands of small business computing.

Also, BDPA Philadelphia and McKesson Corp will present scholarships to Jonathan Hernandez and Marcellus Sims for their demonstrated leadership and active participation in the HSCC. Jonathan and Marcellus are both HSCC Alumni.

Logistics for the event:

Date: February 20, 2008
Time: 6:00pm - 8:30pm

Location: CIGNA Insurance Building
2 Liberty Place - 16th Street
(between Market & Chestnut Streets)
Philadelphia, PA 19101

You can RSVP or ask questions to the chapter on (215) 844-3235. Any thoughts or questions on the subject of this program meeting? Any Philadelphia area blog readers?

Project Management Exam Prep (Cincinnati)

BDPA Cincinnati chapter is bringing back one of their most popular workshop series from last year ... Project Management Exam Prep.

Jeff Jenkins (PMP) directs the Cincinnati chapter's Project Management Special Interest Group (PMSIP). PMSIP members will lead intense, hands-on workshop activity for anyone planning to take the PMP exam this year.

The workshop will occur on five consecutive Saturdays from March 29th through April 26th. The focus of the PMSIP workshop series will be:

• the nine knowledge areas of the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK®);
• how to become a member of PMI®
• how to study and prepare for the exam

Here are the logistics for the event:

Cost: $300/members or $375/future members

Location: The Kroger Company
11450 Grooms Road
Blue Ash, OH

The class outline is contained in the workshop brochure. For more information on this professional development opportunity, contact Gerald Smith, PMP on (513) 325-6513.

As an aside, if you don't live in the greater Cincinnati area, you should look for similiar opportunity offered by the BDPA IT Institute. Are there any PMP candidates out there interested in learning more about this workshop series?

Town Hall Meeting (New Jersey)

BDPA New Jersey is the 12th largest chapter in the nation. The chapter is listening to members, friends, and associates in order to continue to deliver programs and services that are fit for use! One way that they listen is through a town hall meeting on February 25 at the Plaza Atrium room at Prudential Financial, Newark, NJ. You are encouraged to bring good ideas, constructive feedback, commitment, and energy.

The town hall meeting will focus on:

• 2007 successes
• 2008 Event Calendar
• Chapter Bylaws
• Chapter Report Card

Dinner will be served. Here are the logistics:

Date: Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Time: 6:00 pm

Place: Prudential Financial Plaza Building, Dryden Hall
751 Broad Street, Newark, NJ 07102

If you have any questions please contact Goldie Bonney (VP-Membership Management) on (973) 416-7356.

Election Results * BDPA Detroit (2008-2009)

I met Anquanette Clegg during the planning and execution of the 2005 National BDPA Technology Conference held in Detroit, MI. Her passion for BDPA led to her election as president of the BDPA Detroit chapter. BDPA Detroit chapter is the 7th largest chapter in the nation. Please take a moment to read the message that Anquanette shared with her chapter members, supporters and sponsors.

Anquanette plans to work with the incoming chapter Board of Directors to lead BDPA Detroit chapter to its mission and objectives by delivering programs and activities that are designed to take our members "from the classroom to the boardroom". The 2008-2009 BDPA Detroit chapter Board includes:

• President - Anquanette Clegg (Compuware)
• President-Elect - Markita Wadley (EDS)
• VP-Finance - Loraine Stewart-David (Plante-Moran)
• VP-Strategy & Planning - Roslyn Cleckley (Compuware)
• VP-Membership Management - Don Lang (Self-Employed)
• VP-Member Services - Ronald Reed (Compuware)
• Immediate Past President - Anthony Garrett-Leverett (Federal-Mogul)

You can reach out to Anquanette Clegg on (313) 483-3519. Please use the COMMENTS section to share some BDPA-Love with these brothers and sisters that have stepped into leadership roles with one of the greatest BDPA chapters in our history. Doable?

Early Bird Registration for BDPA Technology Conference Ends 2/29/08

BDPA would like to remind its members and prospective attendees that the early bird registration deadline of February 29 for the upcoming 30th annual BDPA National Technology Conference is fast approaching.

The conference will be held August 6–9 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Atlanta, GA. Attendees who register before February 29th will pay the following rates:

• Members: $250
• Non-Members: $350

After February 29th the rates increase to:

• Members: $500
• Non-Members: $700

The national conference offers an excellent opportunity for participants to network with other information technology professionals, acclimate themselves with the latest technology advances, careers and professional development opportunities.

Here are some important notes for you to keep in mind:

• Early bird registration fee must be received no later than February 29.
• Only conference registrants will be able to attend workshops and events.
• Conference badges must be presented to gain entry to workshops, receptions, etc.
• Please note that accommodations are not included in the registration fee.

Click here to Register

Please reach out to our Conference Team by email or phone (800.727-2372) if you have questions or wish to learn more.

Message from Charlotte Chapter President

Charles Moore ascended to the presidency of BDPA Charlotte chapter last month. His chapter, founded in September 1988, is currently the 15th largest chapter in the nation. Charles shared his vision for BDPA with his membership. We bring you his comments:

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BDPA Charlotte Friends and Family,

I would like to share with you my vision and expectations of our chapter as we embark on what will be a renaissance period for BDPA Charlotte. If I think back as to why I joined BDPA 5 years ago, the reason was very simple. I wanted to keep moving forward and keep giving back. Those two things are the reasons for my commitment to the BDPA and it’s mission. As you read this, our minority communities are falling further and further behind in the skills necessary to keep up with the rapid changes in the world of technology. The gap that is developing as a result is known as the great digital divide.

As IT professionals in Charlotte, I feel that it is our responsibility and duty to aid and assist where possible in bridging this digital divide. We must direct our efforts at serving the community, keeping the community educated, and keeping our community employed.

While we are doing this however, we must keep ourselves educated on the latest and greatest technologies and processes and be the leaders we are destined to be as a chapter. Remember, we are not only competing locally in our industry, but also on a global level. I hope that you consider this a call to action and plan to join me and the Charlotte Board of Directors over the next 2 years in fulfilling our responsibilities.

During my time at Winston-Salem State, I was doing well in my studies and I felt as if I was doing what was just enough to make a positive contribution to society. In the back of my mind, however, I always felt as if I could do more, and that I needed to do more….Well, it wasn’t until I was pulled aside by a mentor at Winston-Salem State, that I learned that you get out of life what you put in to it. I was told that unless "you keep moving forward and keep giving back to help others move forward", then your greatest potential will never be truly realized. I really did not understand what that meant until I began working with the HSCC program here in Charlotte through the BDPA. To see students learn the necessary skills to bridge the digital divide and gain internships and become graduates of high school and college, that is when I realized what my mentor was referring to.

Now as President of the Charlotte Chapter, my focus is to ensure the same thing continues to happen with our students and also with adults and our community in general. I hope you will use the BDPA to help you fulfill all the potential you possess while helping others in the process. If you are interested in joining us, please contact me or anyone on the Charlotte Board of Directors. We are eager to have your help and your skills. Your contribution of time and effort will be just as invaluable to others as the rewards you will receive by giving back to our community.

I look forward to working and serving this great community over the next 2 years. Never hesitate to contact me to let me know your thoughts.

Thanks,
Charles Moore, President
BDPA Charlotte
Email: charlotte@bdpa.org
Phone: (704) 654-8114

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Care to share any words of encouragement for our brothers and sisters in Charlotte?