Sunday, June 14, 2009

Free Bible

New Testament (NIV)

The Mainstream Bible Outreach Society is giving away free copies of the Bible’s New Testament to anyone who requests one (within the United States). I recommend the entire book, but the New Testament is better than Neither Testament!Click HERE to request a free NIV New Testament Bible (allow 6-8 weeks for postal delivery).

Monday, June 8, 2009

Free online classes

Monster list of free online college courses

Just the other day, we were thinking it might be time to brush up on advanced complexity theory. And because we're expanding our vegetable garden, knowing more about soil mechanics might help. (Well, maybe not because we haven't taken the prerequisites.)

And in case we've forgotten about the particular charms and indignities of aging, we can take free courses on that too, courtesy of Johns Hopkins.

If you have knowledge gaps you want to fill, you can do it online -- for free. To help you find a particular topic, UniversitiesandColleges.org is building "The master list of free online college courses." Feel free to let them know of courses that don't yet appear.

We had no idea how engaging these free online courses could be until we checked out a few on this massive list.

For instance, a course available through the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's OpenCourseWare caught our eye -- American Consumer Culture. Two of the books on the reading list can be downloaded for free from Project Gutenberg. Two others, including "Fast Food Nation," are likely available at the local library.

The related reading is intriguing as well, and includes the Museum of the Moving Image's "The Living Room Candidate: Presidential Campaign Commercials 1952-2008." That's right. You can watch hundreds of old political commercials, if you're so inclined. If not, move on to Game Theory, or take French online.

For better or worse, taking free online courses is not the same as enrolling in a class. Your study is self-directed and you won't earn credits toward a degree. But homework and exams are optional.

Costs can be involved but they're optional too. For instance, if we really had the background to understand the MIT course on advanced complexity theory (not even close), we could download the lecture notes for free but we'd also want to acquire the recommended books.

-msn.com

Thursday, June 4, 2009

Search the IRS refund check database

IRS looks for people owed refund checks

The Internal Revenue Service is looking for taxpayers who are missing more than 279,000 economic stimulus checks totaling about $163 million and more than 104,000 regular refund checks totaling about $103 million that were returned by the U.S. Postal Service due to mailing address errors. Search our database to see if the IRS owes you money and learn how to get your check.

http://www.kentucky.com/181/story/819150.html

Free Friday Flicks

Coming back for its 14th year, the family event offers a newly released, kid-friendly movie, children's games and a petting zoo, all for free.

Preshow activities will begin at 7 pm with the movie starting at dark. Patrons should bring blankets or lawn chairs for seating.

When: Friday, June 5
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Place: Jacobson Park

The Body Bailout Plan: Stimulating Healthy Choices

Lexington, Kentucky – The Bethesda health ministry at First Baptist Church Bracktown is holding it’s 3rd bi-annual community wide health fair with the theme: “The Body Bailout Plan: Stimulating Healthy Choices” on Saturday, June 20th from 10:00am until 4:30pm at First Baptist Church Bracktown on 3016 Bracktown Road.





All are welcome to sit in on wellness workshops by medical professionals or get moving in exercise classes for men, women and children. More than 40 vendors will be on hand to offer services, entertainment, information, advice or products in everything from jewelry accessories to massage therapy, chiropractic services and hearing, dental and vision screenings, and even a visit from Cambo the clown for the kids.

This year’s event features one of Lexington’s premier catering companies, Jewel’s Southern Comfort. Personal Chef Jewel will commandeer Bracktown’s culinary center and show spectators how to prepare healthy meals and let them sample servings of her delicious, health conscious selections. If you want to burn some calories that morning bring your workout clothes and try out the latest fitness craze Zumba or get into your Zen zone with a yoga class. Exercise classes are available for children age six and older and for the 60 & over crowd, the Silver Foxes class is where you want to be. Kids will also get hands on instruction on preparing healthy snacks and also engage in interactive fire safety exercises through simulations by the fire department.

Fair goers will be eligible for gifts and prizes and energized with light breakfast options and lunch. An afternoon fitness challenge will reward the highest achievers in different gender and age groups with prizes and trophies.

Bracktown’s Community Health Fair is for the entire family and provides a FREE opportunity to seek resources, medical professionals and information to reverse negative health trends and take charge in conquering, and even preventing, life threatening health conditions.

For more information about First Baptist Bracktown’s Body Bailout Plan: Stimulating Healthy Choices Health Fair contact Gwin Minter at (859) 576-9428 or gwin_minter@windstream.net.

Kentucky Virtual High School

Have you ever thought about taking a class online? Does it sound challenging and fun? If so, check out the Kentucky Virtual High School (KVHS)!

Students from schools throughout Kentucky are taking interesting and challenging courses online through KVHS. With approval of their local school, students may take courses that are not taught in their building or that do not fit into their busy schedules. Because these courses are available on the Internet 24 hours a day, seven days a week, students can work from school, from a library and from home — from any Internet-connected computer to which they have regular access. KVHS courses are taught by Kentucky-certified teachers and are aligned with the Program of Studies and Core Content.

KVHS is offering Credit Recovery and Block courses during Summer 2009.
Registration ends June 3 and courses begin June 8.

KVHS is also accepting registrations for Fall 2009 courses. These courses are scheduled to begin August 19. KVHS currently offers a wide variety of courses in the Fall including 23 Advanced Placement courses, World Languages including Spanish, French, Mandarin Chinese, Latin and German and exciting new elective courses such as Forensic Science, Game Design, and Digital Photography. Please visit www.kyvs.org [http://www.kyvs.org] for more information regarding course offerings and registration or call KVHS toll free at 866-432-0008.

Lexington's 4th of July Celebration 2009

With Lexington’s 4th of July Festival there is truly something for everyone.

There are activities that will delight people of all ages. Enjoy the delicious Ice Cream Social and Great American Pie Contest at Cheapside Park; listen to the inspiring sounds of the Lexington Philharmonic; hear the Declaration of Independence being read on the steps of the historic courthouse at Cheapside Park; cheer on the participants in the Bluegrass 10,000 and experience the sights and sounds of the July 4th Parade, a longstanding tradition in Lexington; and don’t miss the grand finale – the Red, White and BOOM! concert followed by a spectacular fireworks show.

Soul Food Festival

Louisville, KY at the waterfront June 13th

http://www.ilovesoulfood.com/Html/louislineup.html

**********The groups for the 2009 concert:*********

Ready for the World

Silk

Peabo Bryson

Lakeside

Evelyn Champaign King

New Prescription Drug Card

A free program for all Kentuckians that offers discounts on prescription drugs was launched Thursday.

Kentuckians can download a free discount card at www.kentuckyrxcard.com, or can ask to have their prescription processed through the Kentucky Rx Card program at any Kmart or CVS pharmacy, according to a news release.

The card is intended to help uninsured and underinsured Kentuckians afford their prescriptions, or those with health insurance but no prescription drug coverage. Kentucky residents with prescription drug coverage can use the card for non-formulary or non-covered drugs.

The card is accepted at more than 50,000 pharmacy locations across the country.

The program is expected to provide average savings of 30 percent on the cost of prescription drugs.

Partners in the program are the Kentucky League of Cities, Greater Louisville Inc., the metro chamber of commerce, the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives, HealthAccess America, FreeDrugCard.US, and the National Independent Lifestyle Association. It also is supported by the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness.


http://louisville.bizjournals.com/louisville/stories/2009/06/01/daily32.html

Thursday, April 30, 2009

7 Ideas for Recycling Your Clutter

Do your part by responsibly donating unneeded items.

It’s spring-cleaning time and with that comes your yearly clutter purge. But before you start tossing unneeded items in the trash, consider putting them to better use. From eyewear and electronics to clothes and furniture, the following organizations accept a wide range of basic and unexpected goods that can benefit others in need. Plus you’ll be helping to keep these items out of landfills, and, in many cases, you could get something that’s hard to pass up—a tax deduction.
1. Athletic shoes
At Nike Reuse-A-Shoe facilities, worn-out sneakers (of any make or brand) are broken down and converted into usable materials for new, top-of-the-line athletic surfaces for communities in need. Visit Nike Reuse-A-Shoe for shipping instructions or to find a drop-off location near you.
2. Books
Through Books for Soldiers, you can send “care packages for the mind” to troops stationed overseas—providing priceless respite from undoubtedly tough surroundings. Another organization that will help free up your bookshelves is Books To Prisoners, which encourages rehabilitation through reading. Or do what member Helen R. (Londonderry, NH) does and recycle old books, CDs and DVDs in your community by donating them to local libraries.
3. Cell phones and electronics
The handy brand-by-brand guide on greenergadgets.com offers resources for recycling various types of electronic devices; it includes an extensive, useful section on cell phones. Phones 4 Charity reprograms used phones for basic communication and safety use in the U.S. and developing countries, while Cell Phones for Soldiers provides phones for soldiers wanting to call home—certainly worthy reasons to dig through your closet for that old phone you’ll never use again. Just be sure to clear your personal information before sending it out. (See sidebar.)
4. Eyeglasses
Your unused or outdated eyeglasses could give someone clearer vision for the first time in his or her life. Lions Clubs International offers a kit that makes it easy for you to mail them out. Because glasses are fragile, and you want them to travel through the mail without breaking, it’s best to wrap them in a small sheet of protective bubble wrap and then tuck them into an easy-to-close Ziploc® Brand Storage Bag.
5. Furniture
Big Brothers Big Sisters of America will put old furniture to use in one of their many youth-mentoring program centers. Visit their site to find your local chapter. Goodwill Industries is another option—and will actually pick up furniture that you can’t transport yourself.

Note: Donated furniture must be in good, presentable condition. Surface imperfections and wear are okay, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t apply a bit of TLC before giving it away. A quick pass with Pledge® Multi Surface Wipes easily removes dust, fingerprints, smudges and smears from furniture surfaces.
6. Office wear
Local charitable thrift shops and Goodwill are great for donating your unneeded clothing, but a more urgent need is for clothes appropriate for the workplace. Dress for Success collects women’s office attire for economically disadvantaged women, giving them the opportunity to re-enter the workforce with renewed confidence. Each woman receives one suit for interviewing and a second when she gets a job. A similar charity for men is Career Gear.

Note: The latter two charities accept only clothing in good-enough condition to wear to an interview, so be sure to launder or dry-clean garments before donating. Treat any stains on colorfast washables with super-concentrated Shout® Advanced Gel. It’s specially formulated to tackle stubborn, set-in stains and works great on everyday stains, too.

7. Other unneeded items
Most of your unneeded items that are still useful or in good shape will be welcome at your local thrift shop. Or as members Joanne W. (Palm Harbor, FL) and Greer D. (Ozark, AR) recommend, try Freecycle.org—a worldwide gifting movement that saves useful resources from landfills while providing items for free to community members in need. Join your local group to start giving.

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Monday, April 13, 2009

Surviving a Job You Hate!

Having a job you hate is never an easy thing to deal with, but sometimes you just need to grin and bear it until you have another gig lined up. Whether you're currently stuck because you just have to pay the bills or are holding out for the next great opportunity, here are some ways to get through the day:

Set weekly goals for yourself.
Sometimes it is easier to make it to 5 o'clock when you can keep your eye on the prize. Even if you hate your job now, there is something out there that will make you happy. Make weekly goals to help you find that golden opportunity. One week you might strive to send out five resumes or attend one networking event. Setting these goals will give you something to work toward.

Do one thing each day to help you reach your goals.
You don't need to cross all your goals off your list every day, but you can chip away daily. When you get up in the morning, set a daily objective for yourself and make sure you achieve it. This will give you a sense of accomplishment and keep you feeling good about your progress.

Give yourself "me time" before work.
Going into a job you hate will be worse if you get to the office feeling rushed, stressed and frazzled. Set aside some moments of solitude each morning.

Develop a positive morning ritual.
Treat yourself to a latte, get up early enough to read the paper, or just set your alarm to play upbeat music when you wake up. Improving your mornings can do wonders for the rest of your day.

Create a diversion for yourself in the office.
Does being in your office make you yearn for the outdoors? Are the incessant ringing phones driving you batty? Do something to brighten your mood while you're at work. Take in a tropical picture and use it as your screensaver. Buy yourself a "joke of the day" desk calendar. Plug headphones into your computer or bring your iPod to work. Go out for lunch.

Use your time to develop your skills.
Hating your job doesn't mean you can't learn new skills. Use your time to make yourself a better candidate down the road. If your company offers training courses, take advantage of them. Use downtime to learn something new on your computer. Pick up a management development book and read it at lunch. Turn this job into an opportunity for self-improvement.

Blow off some steam.
Most people have an activity that helps them unwind and get rid of tension. Go for a run after work, go swimming on your lunch hour, or take a nice long walk. Put this activity on your schedule so you will have something to look forward to every day.

Treat yourself.
To make up for your office misery, find little ways of treating yourself. Buy a good book to read. Treat yourself to ice cream. Buy some flowers. Shop for a new interview suit. Plan your next vacation. Find out what makes you feel better inside, no matter what is going on outside.

Maintain your performance.
It is important to continue to do your work and do it well, regardless of your current situation. Set personal performance goals. Then use the accomplishments in future interviews.

Keep your bridges intact.
It really is a small world, and you never know when you will run into co-workers from your past. Don't burn any bridges at your company because you are unhappy. Maintain your contacts and keep your relationships positive. You might just need a reference or a good word from one of your colleagues in the future.

Realize that this too shall pass.
Right now, it might seem like you will be stuck in this job forever. Keep your chin up and remind yourself that you are in charge of your destiny. Search internal postings for new positions. Start your search for a new job externally.

www.careerbuilder.com

Recession-proof Jobs

1. Registered nurse
Resistant reason: Nurses are always in demand, recession or not. People will continue to get sick and seek medical attention no matter what the state of the economy, which ought to give RNs sound job security.
Training needed: A bachelor's or associate degree in nursing, plus completion of an approved nursing program. RNs must also complete a national licensing examination to obtain a nursing license. Further training or education qualifies nurses to work in specialty areas.
Growth through 2016*: 23.5 percent
Salary**: $46,242

2. Public relations specialist
Resistant reason: As advertising budgets are sliced and other marketing efforts are nixed to cut costs, many companies will rely solely on their public relations departments to promote the company brand. Additionally, as rumors spread about layoffs, bailouts and bankruptcy, PR specialists are needed more than ever to put out these fires along the way.
Training needed: A college degree in a communications-related field like journalism or advertising is helpful, though not necessary. If you lack a degree, employers will look for demonstrated communication skills.
Growth through 2016: 18 percent
Salary: $41,549

3. Teacher, post-secondary
Resistant reason: Since it's becoming harder to score a job, people are riding out the recession by going back to school. Furthermore, workers and job seekers alike are earning higher education to increase their marketability in the work force.
Training needed: Training varies based on the subject you teach and where you teach it. Four-year colleges and universities, however, usually require candidates to hold a doctoral degree for full-time, tenure-track positions.
Growth through 2016: 23 percent
Salary: $46,991

4. Police officer
Resistant reason: First, police officers are employed by the government, which definitely doesn't hurt job security. Second, the sad fact is that crime happens every day and the economy isn't helping. Desperate times call for desperate measures, which for some people include stealing and other offenses -- in some areas, police officers are busier than ever.
Training needed: Law enforcement agencies encourage applicants to take courses or training related to law enforcement subjects after high school. Candidates must be U.S. citizens, usually at least 20 years old, and must meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications.
Growth through 2016: 11 percent
Salary: $49,288

5. Insurance sales agent
Resistant reason: Though many Americans are on a tight budget, people are generally willing to spend money on the big stuff, such as coverage for natural disasters, health-care expenses and automobile accidents. With so many people losing their jobs -- leaving them uninsured as a result -- insurance sales agents have a larger client pool to work with.
Training needed: You have to have a state license to sell insurance; requirements vary by state, but generally require insurance-related course work and passing several exams. A college degree is not required, but is strongly encouraged.
Growth through 2016: 13 percent
Salary: $39,656

6. Pharmacy technician
Resistant reason: As the population ages, people probably will need more medication, as do the many people suffering from depression and anxiety as a result of the recession. Plus, many people have health-care coverage of some kind, even with the downturn, which makes it possible for people to continue to pay for medications.
Training needed: Most are trained on the job, but employers prefer applicants who have formal training, certification or previous experience.
Growth through 2016: 32 percent
Salary: $28,624

7. Funeral director
Resistant reason: Death is a fact of life. No matter what the economy does, people will continue to pass away and families will continue to grieve while seeking assistance to plan services for their loved ones.
Training needed: Every state requires that funeral directors are licensed. State licensing laws vary, but most require you to be 21 years old, have two years of formal education, serve a one-year apprenticeship and pass an examination.
Growth through 2016: 12 percent
Salary: $87,383

8. Environmental science technician
Resistant reason: The Obama administration plans to create 5 million "green" jobs over the next 10 years. Despite a slowing economy, a large percentage of the U.S. work force continues to dedicate itself to the environment.
Training needed: Most environmental science technicians need an associate degree or certificate in applied science or science-related technology. Technicians with a high school diploma and no college degree typically begin work under the direct supervision of an experienced technician and eventually earn a two-year degree in science technology.
Growth through 2016: 28 percent
Salary: $36,655

9. Network systems and data communications analyst
Resistant reason: Many technology-based positions can be performed by outsourcing, but certain technology workers, such as network systems and data communications analysts, must deal with problems onsite.
Training needed: An associate degree or certificate is sufficient, although more advanced positions might require a computer-related bachelor's degree.
Growth through 2016: 53.4 percent
Salary: $40,827 and $71,637, respectively

10. Fast-food worker
Resistant reason: Unfortunately, fast food is all some people can afford these days. While so many other companies saw a decrease in sales and income last year, McDonalds, for example, saw global sales increase 6.9 percent throughout 2008, and its operational income increased 14 percent.
Training needed: No previous training is needed for this position; on-the-job training is provided.
Growth through 2016: 17 percent
Salary: $16,568

www.careerbuilder.com

Black Scholars To Know

1) Dr. Marc Lamont Hill (Columbia University) – Marc impresses me as the brightest young mind of the 21st century. Marc is not just as sharp as a butcher knife, he is also a true brother who really understands the problems of the Black community. I cannot tell you how much Marc struggled to build his career, it was tough to watch. But Marc is not just brilliant, he represents the essence of that concept called “Survival of the fittest”. The best is yet to come.

2) Peniel Joseph (Harvard University/Brandeis University) – Peniel, who wrote a book on Barack Obama recently, is not just a brilliant scholar, but a great person. His work is second to none and his analysis on PBS is right on point.

3) Cornel West (Princeton) – Who can forget Cornel? Our great academic father deserves respect for opening the door to the possibility of pursuing true Black scholarship that is relevant to the world around us. Cornel’s battles at Harvard prepared me for the challenges I would encounter here at Syracuse. This man will be in the history books and he deserves to be there.

4) Michael Eric Dyson (Georgetown University) – Michael (we call him “Mike”) was the reason I became a publicly engaged scholar in the first place. I remember watching him on BET in the 90s with my jaws dropped, saying, “Damn, I wanna be like that guy!” While I eventually developed my own style (Mike and I differ in many ways), I can say that Michael’s commitment to hip hop culture and his amazing swagger simply cannot be stolen or emulated.

5) Dr. Fritz Polite (U. Tennessee) – Fritz is one of the leading advocates for Black male athletes in America. He also carries the kind of strong and assertive style that should embody all progressive Black male intellectuals. Many of us have the ability to be strong, but we choose to walk in fear and silence. Fritz does no such thing.

6) Dr. Billy Hawkins (U. Georgia) – Billy’s recent commentary about Black male athletes was one of the most powerful and poignant statements I’ve seen in a while. I love it when Black men attack an issue head-on, instead of skirting around it for fear of losing our jobs. In order for there to be progress, men must be willing to take the lead. The fight is not with our muscles, it is with our minds. Intellectual athletes like Billy Hawkins are far more impactful than Black male professional athletes, who have unfortunately relegated themselves to psychological and financial slavery.

7) Dr. Juan Gilbert (U. Auburn/Clemson University) – President of the Brothers of the Academy (the largest group of Black male PhDs in America), Juan is an amazing visionary and a powerful guide to young Black students. He is also one of the premier computer scientists in the world and a highly impactful scholar.

8) Dr. Julianne Malveaux (President – Bennett College) – The only thing you can say about Julianne is “deeyamm”. She, along with Michael Eric Dyson, were the two greatest reasons for my becoming a publicly engaged scholar. Also, as the only other publicly engaged scholar who deals with Financial issues, I have learned a lot from Julianne as a mentor, colleague and friend.

9) Dr. Wilmer Leon (Howard University) – Wilmer is the host of “On with Leon”, an XM satellite radio show. As an expert in Black Political History, Wilmer has been highly impactful when it comes to educating the Black community on critical socio-political issues. His meticulous, educational style of information sharing should be given a larger platform.

10) Dr. Christopher Metzler (Georgetown University) – Chris wrote an article about Academic Imperialism that simply knocked my socks off. I called Chris on the phone to talk with him, and found him to be the kind of Black scholar we need in America today. Educated at Oxford, Chris has exactly the type of global perspective that we need from African American intellectuals.


Honorable mention: I hate the fact that these individuals are not on the top 10 list, but I will mention their work regardless. Not being on the list does not imply, for one second, that their work is any less worthy than anyone else I've mentioned:

- Dr. Jeremiah Wright - This man has given a great deal to our nation, namely by serving in the military while his critics hid in shame when it was time to stand up and fight. At no time was his service to our nation greater than during the Obama campaign, in which he became its single greatest casualty. Dr. Wright was fighting against apartheid before it became fashionable to do so and was putting his life on the line when President Obama was in diapers. He should be right there at the top of the list and I will respect him until I am dead.

- Dr. Bell Hooks - one of the most prolific scholars and amazing educators in the history of the world. She is reclusive and a bit mysterious, but I love her like a relative. In fact, she is actually the aunt of my cousin, which pretty much makes us related huh? (Our last names are actually the same, since she is a Watkins too. But I think that's just a coincidence).

- Dr. Derrick Bell - This Harvard Law Professor wrote a book about his fight to get professors hired at The Harvard Law School during the 1980s. It was one of the most inspirational books I've ever read.

- Dr. Na'im Akbar - (Florida State University) - An absolute monster. He gave a speech at The University of Kentucky in 1995 that knocked me out. I can only imagine how much hell they've given him in the south and the fact that he has stood up to this scrutiny has been a source of inspiration.

Ok, that’s “Boyce’s Top Ten”. I created this list based on the scholarly impact of my colleagues, rather than how many publications they have in specific journals or the university with which they are affiliated. This is the kind of list that is built on courage. In my opinion, if you’re not out there doing YOUR thing, then you’re not out there doing ANY thing. We’ve spent all of our time doing THEIR thing, and now it’s time to start doing OUR thing.

-drboycespeaks.blogspot.com/2009/04/dr-boyces-top-10-black-public-scholars.html

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

HALF PRICE classes for unemployed

New program will help unemployed get re-trained at KCTCS

The Kentucky Community and Technical College System is launching a program to provide scholarships to those who recently lost their jobs.

The college system’s Career Transitions initiative, which KCTCS President Michael McCall and Gov. Steve Beshear announced Tuesday, would allow any Kentuckian who lost a job and filed for unemployment benefits since Oct. 1, 2008 to take up to 6 credit hours in a term at half price.

The program also will connect those students with a streamlined admissions process, help with filling out financial aid forms and advising sessions to ease the transition into courses to be trained in “high-growth, high-wage fields,” according to a statement from the college system.

The program is in response to the spike in unemployment Kentucky has seen since the economy turned sour over the last year. The state’s unemployment rate reached 8.7 percent in January — a 22 year high.

“The KCTCS Career Transitions program is a key ingredient in our efforts to transform the state’s economy during these challenging times,” Beshear said in a statement.

Read more in Wednesday’s Herald-Leader.

- Ryan Alessi

YMCA Black Achievers

Awards Banquet
April 18, 2009
Marriott Griffin Gate
5:30 p.m. Silent Auction
6:30 pm Procession & Dinner

Ticket required for Admission
No Admittance During Procession
Doors will be locked from
6:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
• • •
Black Achievers
Mission & Purpose
he YMCA of Central Kentucky Black Achievers
is the catalyst that provides exposure to
present and future educational/career
opportunities, instills positive social values, ignites
students’ thirst for knowledge, enables students to
reach their full potential by creating opportunities for
adults and the community to participate in their lives,
and empowers families to assist students in reaching
higher goals.

The YMCA of Central Kentucky Black Achievers
program connects students with positive adult role
models in the community. It offers program activities
designed to give seventh through twelfth grade
students exposure to career, educational and social
opportunities that are not readily available to them.
These opportunities enable students to make
informed decisions and develop the skills necessary
to compete successfully in life.
Proceeds benefit the continuation of this
successful program.

YMCA Black Achievers
436 Georgetown Street
Lexington, KY 40508
www.ymcaofcentralky.org
Non-Profit

Monday, March 23, 2009

Kentucky State University LSAMP Program

Interested in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology?????

The National Science Foundation's Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation (LSAMP) is a comprehensive, undergraduate program designed to increase substantially the quantity and quality of students, especially African American, Hispanic, and Native American students, pursuing degrees and careers in science, mathematics, engineering and technology.

Summer 2009 Bridge Program
for
Rising Juniors & Seniors


July 5 - July 24, 2009
The Benefits:
Stipend $750 ($250/week)
Free Room & Board
Inquiry-based science workshops
Enhance college skills

Application Criteria:
Rising HS Juniors/Seniors (Will be Juniors/Seniors in Fall 2009)
Overall HS GPA of 3.0 or better
ACT Score (if taken) of 20 or better
Completed application, HS transcripts,
two recommendation letters, and one picture.
Applicants will be notified via e-mail only.


Application deadline is April 30, 2009.
Interested in the LSAMP Summer Program at KSU? See your counselor or contact:

Dr. Kazi Javed kazi.javed@kysu.edu
130 Carver Hall Phone: 502-597-6722
Kentucky State University
400 East Main St.
Frankfort, KY 40601

SURVEY: African American female Leaders

Will you take a few minutes to consider what we hope is a unique opportunity to share your candid opinions, comments and reflections about your experience as an African American female leader?

Click on this link to be taken to the short survey: http://www.surveygizmo.com/s/113342/african-american-female-leaders-cultural-insights-survey

All responses will be anonymous. The compiled survey results will be shared with study participants who wish to receive them.

The purpose of this brief survey is to identify the challenges African-American women leaders encounter that may, to some degree, differ from the challenges facing other leaders. Your candid responses and comments are welcome.

This survey is sponsored by Ginger Cockerham, Beverley Wright and Kay Cannon, professional, certified coaches who work with a diverse group of clients. Some of those clients have expressed a desire to focus on challenges related to one dimension of their culture, their racial identity as African-American women executives and leaders.

Your prompt completion of the survey is appreciated. The survey will be available until April 3, 2009.

It is important that this survey reaches as many African American women leaders as possible. We ask that you help us by sharing the survey link with other African American women leaders who may be interested in completing the survey.

If you have any questions about the survey, please contact Kay Cannon at email address, Kay@LeadershipWhisperer.com, or phone number 859-266-2436.

Thank you.



Kay Cannon, MBA, MCC

The LeadershipWhisperer™

Life, Leadership & Legacy



All Business is Personal.



Leadership Coaching & Consulting

Phone: 859-266-2436

Fax: 859-266-2498

www.LeadershipWhisperer.com

Harlem Globetrotters

FAMILY 4 PACK OFFER
4 TICKETS...4 POPCORN...4 SODA
FOR ONLY $86

Saturday, April 18th at 7pm
Rupp Arena

Offer good Monday, March 23 at 10:00am
through Monday, April 6th at 10:00pm

Enter the password "FAMILY" in the Promotions and Special Offers Box. Then select 1 for 4 tickets or 2 for 8 tickets and so on.

Box Office Numbers:
(859) 233-3535


Box Office Hours:
The Box Office hours are as follows:
Monday through Friday - 10AM to 6PM
Saturday & Sunday - Closed
Day of show - 12PM until 1 hour after show time

New School for Struggling Students

Fayette Co. planning school for struggling students

By Jim Warren - jwarren@herald-leader.com The Fayette County Public Schools plan to open a new school next August aimed at middle and high school students who are struggling with learning in traditional settings.

The Fayette County Board of Education will vote on the proposal Monday night. An official name for the school will be picked later.

The new facility, which will be located in the old Linlee School building on Georgetown Road, is not intended for students who have been in disciplinary trouble. Instead it would serve youngsters "who need a different structure in order to succeed," said Mike McKenzie, the school district's director of high schools.

"We know there are kids who are not being successful in the traditional school setting, but they don't always demonstrate that lack of success by acting out," McKenzie said. "We need to provide something different for them to be successful."

Similar schools are operated by other districts, including the Jessamine County Schools.

Parents will be able to apply for their children to attend the Lexington school, which would open for the 2009-2010 school year with 50 students. The plan is for enrollment eventually to reach about 200.

Friday, March 20, 2009

Kentucky Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials

2009 SPRING SUMMIT

April 17 - 18, 2009

Empowering Kentucky
Through Development

Kentucky Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials
Who Should Attend?
• Local Elected Officials (City & County)
• State Government Elected Officials
• State Government Staff
• Community Leaders
• StudentsPurpose

As elected officials we are called to represent, our constituents in getting their needs met. Often times, the issues concerning our constituents are similar, whether they are African American or Non African-American. In certain broad
categories, constituent issues in Hopkinsville are not very different from to those in Louisville, Lexington or Pikeville as they relate to African Americans. After much discussion with our constituents and KBC-LEO Board members, we have
agreed on the following critical areas that need attention – not only for African Americans, but Kentuckians at large.

Those areas are:
• Stimulus Dollars
• Education
• Justice
• Healthcare
• Economic Development

Hotel Information
Griffin Gate Marriott Hotel, Lexington
Special Rate: $91.00, single and double occupancy
859-231-5100 or 1-800- 228-9290
Reservation deadline: March 27, 2009
Ask for the Kentucky Black Caucus room block.

Make checks payable and mail to: Kentucky Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials
c/o Eleanor Barbour
100 East Vine Street, Suite 800
Lexington, KY 40507 or Fax to 859-977-3703

Friday, March 13, 2009

Women's bible study

Do you know WHO you are?
Do you know WHO God says you are?
Are you living a life that shows that you are WHO God says youare?

If not, why would you allow yourself to continue in (or go back to) a life bound by pasthurts, pains, inadequacy, needing to be perfect, etc. when God has freed us? He haslet us loose to be free women devoted to hard work, being energetic and strong.Women clothed in strength and dignity, laughing with no fear of the future because we fear the Lord (Proverbs 31: 25 NLT).Therefore God has put out an S.O.S. for all women ages 18-35 who are ready to deal with real issues and are serious about getting real healing. Women willing to discover their identity in Christ in order to infect the world and be unleashed as women with theknowledge of Christ, His power, and His ability to change others lives for the better.

Come with us as we journey together in studying God’s Word to become W.H.O. He created us to be.

March 26th Taylor Education Bldg.
UK campus
Auditorium Rm 158 7:15pm

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Blue Note 7 Jazz

Blue Note 7 Jazz Tour

March 14, 20097:30pm

Alltech Festival Event To mark the 70th anniversary of Blue Note Records, the premier label in jazz, an all-star band featuring some of the finest musicians today will travel the world celebrating this rich catalog of music. Led by Blue Note Records artist and pianist, Bill Charlap, the group will explore classic tunes by Bud Powell, Thelonius Monk, Horace Silver, Herbie Hancock, Lee Morgan, Wayne Shorter, and many others. This performance will include Bill Charlap (piano and Music Director), Peter Bernstein (guitar), Ravi Coltrane (tenor saxophone), Lewis Nash (drums), Nicholas Payton (trumpet), Peter Washington (bass), and Steve Wilson (alto saxophone).The program for the evening will be selected from the following compositions, plus numerous other classics from the Blue Note Records catalog: "Ceora" by Lee Morgan, "Criss Cross" by Thelonious Monk, "Dolphin Dance" by Herbie Hancock, "Hub-Tones" by Freddie Hubbard, and "Idle Moments" by Duke Pearson. Co-sponsored with the Office of Multicultural

Student Programming.
Tier One Seats: $40
Tier Two Seats: $35
Tier Three Seats: $30

God at Work

GOD AT WORK -- His Help is available now! Special Teleseminar on March 28, 2009

You are invited to a Special Teleconference on March 28, 2009

Author Ivy Bennett will host a teleconference call to discuss strategies for workplace success in today’s economy.

A free copy of her book "God at Work" can be obtained by sending your address to ivyben33@gmail.com or writing to her at 7301 W 25th Street - Suite 205, North Riverside, IL 60546.

Date: March 28, 2009 ( Saturday)

Time 8:00 am – 9:00 am (Central Time –CST)

Conference Call Line: 1-218-844-8230 Access code: 169216#

Contact Ivy via email at ivyben33@gmail.com Or leave your prayer request at 708-704-7586

LIFT

Lifting and Impacting Futures Today conference

When: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Saturday

Where: Brown Science Center, Transylvania University, 300 North Broadway.

Cost: Free

Contact: (859) 381-4336

Registration is at 8 a.m.

HBCU Showcase

Representatives from Historically Black Colleges and Universities, as well as a few local colleges, have been invited to The 4th Annual Showcase of HBCU to meet Kentuckiana’s young people and to recruit them to their universities.

A diverse group of community organizations, businesses, and professionals will also offer career counseling and youth development programs.

Preparatory workshops on topics such as taking the ACT/SAT, applying for financial aid, admission preparation, and college life will also be offered.

The unique format of workshops and direct interaction between accomplished adults and high school students allows students to learn about issues they may confront in the future, and to know that there is a support network and that success is possible.

The Showcase of HBCU returns for a fourth year featuring Kentucky State University on Friday, March 27th, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Kentucky Fair and Exposition Center. The event is aimed at students in grades 8 through 12, parents of college-bound students, and current college students considering a transfer.

For more information, please contact Andrea Houston, founder of Education First Foundation, Inc. and of The Showcase of HBCU at 502-435-4639.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:
REGISTRATION
GREETERS
CAREER PROFESSIONALS
CLASS ROOM ASSISTANTS & FLOOR MONITORS

For more information, on how to volunteer or to sign up please call 502-552-7647 (please leave a message) or e-mail us at mail@showcasehbcu.com.

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

2009 Urban Singles Weekend Retreat

Living Single in Faith

Ridgecrest Conference CenterApril 10-13, 2009

“We live by faith, not by sight.” (2 Cor. 5:7)

"Embracing Faith with Purpose" Living Single in Faith is the theme for 2009 Urban Singles weekend retreat at Ridgecrest Conference Center. Single adults will have an opportunity to participate in a life changing conference to increase their faith through prayer, fellowship, and commitment God.

Core Classes
These classes are offered in the mornings.
• Building your Faith Through Prayer
• Building Your Faith through Studying the Word
• Faith that Moves Mountains
• Embracing Faith in Difficult Times
• Embracing Faith with Purpose
• Faith and Parenting

Specialty Classes:
Dummies Guide to Abstinence
Kept: Giving Your body, Your spirit, and Your mind for God Purposes
Handling Loneliness
Why Should I Get Married?
Financing for the Future And more…

Special Living Single in Faith nightly coffeehouse set-up for the weekend to enjoy coffee, conversation and music.

Monday, March 2, 2009

UPDATE: Lyric Theater

The Lyric Theatre project will again be discussed by the Council Budget and Finance Committee tomorrow, Tuesday, March 3 at 10:00am in the Council Chambers at the Government Center.

Last week’s meeting with the Budget and Finance Committee went well. No action was taken. On Thursday evening at the regular Council meeting, the reimbursement resolution for the Lyric Theatre project was given first reading (no motions were made to table the resolution or send it to a committee). The resolution is still on track to receive second reading (and an up or down vote) on Thursday, March 12.

If you are able to attend tomorrow’s meeting at 10:00am, we’d love to have you! Encourage your friends and family to do the same! And please go ahead and mark your calendars for Thursday, March 12 at 7pm for the Council Meeting.

Thanks so much to everyone for your continued support and patience for the opening of the Lyric Theatre.

Freda Meriwether

Sunday, March 1, 2009

Lexington-Fayette County Urban League

Check out these upcoming events sponsored by the Urban League:

Young Professionals 5th annual LIFT conference
Date: March 14, 2009

Young Professionals Event And Gala Day 1
Date: August 21, 2009

Young Professionals Event And Gala Day 2
Date: August 22, 2009

Urban League 41st Annual Dinner
Date: October 19, 2009

Free Credit Reports

The three nationwide consumer reporting companies have set up one central website, toll-free telephone number, and mailing address through which you can order your free annual report. To order, click on annualcreditreport.com, call 877-322-8228, or complete the Annual Credit Report Request Form and mail it to: Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.

Do not contact the three nationwide consumer reporting companies individually.

They are only providing free annual credit reports through annualcreditreport.com, 877-322-8228, and Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.

Dance Theater of Harlem

Lexington Ballet Company presents Dance Theatre of Harlem

Friday, March 20; 8:00pm

Widely acclaimed as a major cultural institution encompassing a world-class ballet company and an accredited school of dance, the Dance Theatre of Harlem was founded in 1969 by Arthur Mitchell and Karel Shook. Dance Theatre of Harlem was considered “one of ballet’s most exciting undertakings” (The New York Times, 1971).

Now in its fourth decade, Dance Theatre of Harlem has grown into a multi-cultural dance institution with an extraordinary legacy of providing opportunities for creative expression and artistic excellence that continues to set standards in the performing arts. Dance Theatre of Harlem Ensemble and Lexington Ballet Bring to the Opera House a one night performance you won't want to miss!

Ticketing Information

Tickets Available NowPrice: $23.00 - $33.00Purchase tickets at the Lexington Center Ticket

Medical Apartheid

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Feb. 28, 2009) – Harriet Washington, author of a comprehensive history of medical experimentation on black Americans, will present a free public lecture at noon Tuesday at the University of Kentucky W.T. Young auditorium, sponsored by the UK HealthCare Program for Bioethics.Washington's Medical Apartheid: The Dark History of Medical

Experimentation on Black Americans from Colonial Times to the Present (Doubleday, 2007 -- ) provides "the first full history of black America’s shocking mistreatment as unwilling and unwitting experimental subjects at the hands of the medical establishment," according to a statement from the publisher.

Washington will give a reading and sign copies of her book at Joseph-Beth Booksellers at 6 p.m. Monday.M. Sara Rosenthal, director of the bioethics program says it's important for medical researchers and health care providers today to know this history and confront it.

"Washington’s book helps us understand how we even got to the infamous Tuskegee study. There are layers of research and clinical abuses prior to Tuskegee that Washington unearths," Rosenthal said.“Perhaps the best way to communicate my feelings about Washington’s work is to invoke the words of President Obama, when he delivered his speech on race last year: ‘Understanding this reality requires a reminder of how we arrived at this point. … We do not need to recite here the history of racial injustice in this country. But we do need to remind ourselves that so many of the disparities that exist in the African-American community today can be directly traced to inequalities passed on from an earlier generation that suffered.”

Saturday, February 28, 2009

Imani Women's Conference

“Rock Your Box”
(Genesis 1:28)

Saturday, April 25, 2009
$12.00 (Includes Lunch)
Registration beginning at 8:00 A.M.
Conference Time: 9:00A.M. – 2:00 P.M.

Imani Missionary Baptist Church
1555 Georgetown Street
Lexington, Kentucky


Keynote Speaker –Cathy Holloway Hill, C. Holloway Hill Enterprises
Jeffersonville, Indiana



An Empower Mentor and Certified Life Coach who empowers you to live your Life by Design Creating Your Roadmap to Success. She is a talk radio show host and author.

Breakout session topics:

“Is your Box full of the Rock or Rocks?”
“What Box?”
“Take the Lid Off Your Box”
“Who’s in Control of Your Box?”


Tickets available at the Welcome Center at Imani Baptist Church
Call (859) 231-1555 for more information


**********PreRegistraion is required*********

Friday, February 27, 2009

Black Statistics

Population

39.2 million: As of July 1, 2004, the estimated population of black residents in the United States, including those of more than one race. They made up 13.4 percent of the total U.S. population. This figure represents an increase of half a million residents from one year earlier.<http://www.census.gov/Press-
Release/www/releases/archives/population/005164.html>

61.4 million: The projected single-race black population of the United States as of July 1, 2050. On that date, according to the projection, blacks would constitute 15 percent of the nation’s total population. <http://www.census.gov/Press-
Release/www/releases/archives/population/001720.html>

3.5 million: The estimated black population of New York on July 1, 2004, highest of any state. Four other states had black populations that surpassed 2 million: Florida, Texas, California and Georgia. About 85,900 blacks were added to Florida’s population between July 1, 2003, and July 1, 2004. That is the largest numeric increase of any state in the nation. Georgia and Texas added 61,800 and 45,000, respectively.<http://www.census.gov/Press- Release/www/releases/archives/population/005514.html>

59 percent: As of July 1, 2004, the proportion of the District of Columbia’s population identified as black — the highest rate for this race group of any state or state-equivalent in the nation. The District of Columbia was followed by Mississippi (37 percent), Louisiana (33 percent) and Georgia, Maryland and South Carolina (30 percent each).<http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=13185121&msgid=263518&act=J7LL&c=242394&admin=0&destination=http://www.census.gov/Press-Release/www/releases/archives/population/005514.html>

1.4 million:: The number of blacks in Cook County, Ill., as of July 1, 2004. Cook led all the nation’s counties in the number of people of this racial category. Broward County, Fla., had the largest numerical increase (17,900) between 2003 and 2004.<http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=13185121&msgid=263518&act=J7LL&c=242394&admin=0&destination=http://www.census.gov/Press-Release/www/releases/archives/population/005514.html>

32%: The proportion of the black population under 18 as of July 1, 2004. At the other end of the spectrum, 8 percent of the black population was 65 or older. <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=13185121&msgid=263518&act=J7LL&c=242394&admin=0&destination=http://www.census.gov/Press-Release/www/releases/archives/population/005164.html>

Businesses
$92.7 billion: Receipts for black-owned businesses in 2002, up 30 percent from 1997. The rate at which black-owned businesses increased their receipts was higher than the national average (22 percent). <http://www.census.gov/Press-Release/www/releases/archives/business_ownership/005477.html>

1.2 million: The number of black-owned businesses in 2002, up by more than 370,000, or 45 percent, since 1997. An estimated 94,862 such firms had paid employees, with receipts of $69.8 billion or about $735,586 per firm. <http://www.census.gov/Press-
Release/www/releases/archives/business_ownership/005477.html>

Thirty-eight percent of black-owned firms were in health care and other service industries; health care and retail trade accounted for a fourth of their receipts.<http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=13185121&msgid=263518&act=J7LL&c=242394&admin=0&destination=http://www.census.gov/Press-Release/www/releases/archives/business_ownership/005477.html>

A fourth of the businesses in Washington, D.C., were black-owned. Black-owned businesses accounted for between 12 percent and 15 percent of firms in Maryland, Georgia, Mississippi and Louisiana. <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=13185121&msgid=263518&act=J7LL&c=242394&admin=0&destination=http://www.census.gov/Press-Release/www/releases/archives/business_ownership/005477.html>

Black business owners were more likely to hold graduate degrees when they started or acquired ownership in their business (about 1-in-4) than the national average (19 percent).<http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=13185121&msgid=263518&act=J7LL&c=242394&admin=0&destination=http://www.census.gov/Press-Release/www/releases/archives/business_ownership/003913.html>

Education
81% Among blacks age 25 and older, the proportion that had at least a high school diploma in 2004. This proportion rose by 8 percentage points from 1994 to 2004.
<http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=13185121&msgid=263518&act=J7LL&c=242394&admin=0&destination=http://www.census.gov/Press-Release/www/releases/archives/education/004214.html>

18% Among blacks age 25 and older, the proportion that had a bachelor’s degree or higher in 2004 — up 5 percentage points from 1994.<http://www.census.gov/Press-
Release/www/releases/archives/education/004214.html>

1.1 million: Among blacks age 25 and older, the number who had an advanced degree in 2004 (e.g., master’s, Ph.D., M.D. or J.D.). Ten years earlier — in 1994 — only 624,000 blacks had this level of education.<http://www.census.gov/Press-
Release/www/releases/archives/education/004214.html>

2.3 million: Number of black college students in fall 2004, roughly double the number 15 years earlier. <http://www.census.gov/Press-
Release/www/releases/archives/education/005787.html>

Income and Poverty$30,134

The annual median income of black households in 2004. This represents no change from 2003.<http://www.census.gov/Press-

Release/www/releases/archives/income_wealth/005647.html>
24.7%Poverty rate in 2004 for those reporting black as their only race. This rate was unchanged from 2003. <http://www.census.gov/Press-

Release/www/releases/archives/income_wealth/005647.html>
Voting 60%Percentage of black citizens age 18 and older who voted in the 2004 presidential election. That amounted to 14 million voters. The percentage of those voting is up 3 percentage points from the previous election. Blacks had the highest turnout rate of any minority group in 2004. <http://www.census.gov/Press-
Release/www/releases/archives/voting/004986.html>Families and Children9.

1 million: Number of black families in the United States. Of these, nearly one-half (47 percent) are married-couple families. <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=13185121&msgid=263518&act=J7LL&c=242394&admin=0&destination=http://www.census.gov/population/www/socdemo/hh-fam/cps2004.html>

11%: Proportion of black children who live in a household maintained by a grandparent. <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=13185121&msgid=263518&act=J7LL&c=242394&admin=0&destination=http://www.census.gov/population/www/socdemo/hh-fam/cps2004.html>

Homeownership

48%The proportion of black householders who own their own home. <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=13185121&msgid=263518&act=J7LL&c=242394&admin=0&destination=http://www.census.gov/hhes/www/housing/hvs/qtr305/q305prss.pdf>

Serving Our Nation

2.4 million: Number of black military veterans in the United States in 2004. (Source: American FactFinder)

Health Insurance
20%: The proportion of blacks who lacked health insurance in 2004, unchanged from the previous year. <http://www.census.gov/Press-
Release/www/releases/archives/income_wealth/005647.html>

Jobs'

27%: The percentage of blacks age 16 and older who work in management, professional and related occupations. (Source: American FactFinder)

There are 50,600 black physicians and surgeons; 69,400 postsecondary teachers; 44,800 lawyers; and 53,800 chief executives. (Source: Statistical Abstract of the United States: 2006, Table 604.)

-from www.boycewatkins.com

What the Stimulus Package Means to US

Economic Stimulus 2009

The American Recovery & Reinvestment Act (ARRA)

On Tuesday, Feb. 17, President Obama signed a $787 billion stimulus package, designed to kick-start the sagging economy and get millions of Americans back to work, and the country back on its feet.

So what is the 2009 stimulus plan and how might it affect me and my family?

Officially known as The American Recovery & Reinvestment Act (ARRA), the stimulus plan includes tax relief for middle-income families and spending programs for things like transportation, environmental and broadband infrastructure projects, aid for states and energy assistance, all designed to create millions of good-paying jobs.
The good news is that 95% of America's taxpayers will benefit from at least one of the tax breaks. Unlike the 2008 Economic Stimulus, there will not be stimulus rebate payment checks in 2009 for the majority of Americans. While some of the relief will be paid this year, the majority of the relief for an average taxpayer is most likely to come next year.

Note: Most provisions below are subject to phaseout for higher-income individuals. See the detailed FAQs for more information.

Key taxpayer provisions:

Tax credit for workers: for 2009 and 2010 there is a "making work pay" tax credit of up to $400 for working individuals and up to $800 for couples.

Temporary suspension of taxation on unemployment benefits: the jobless get a little more help with a $25 increase in weekly benefit checks through 2009 and suspension of federal tax on the first $2,400 of unemployment benefits received in 2009.

Retirees and disabled individuals: those receiving Social Security benefits and individuals on disability will receive a one-time payment of $250 in 2009.

First-time home buyer credit: increased to $8,000 for qualified first-time homebuyers purchasing homes after Dec. 31, 2008 and before Dec. 1, 2009; repayment requirement waived unless sold or no longer principal residence within 36 months.

"American Opportunity Tax Credit" for education: an 'enhanced' Hope credit applies to the first four years of college; it provides 100% credit for the first $2,000 and 25% for the next $2,000 on qualified expenses such as tuition and books; the credit is 40% refundable, meaning even taxpayers who have no tax liability can receive a credit for 40% of qualified college expenses, up to $1,000.

529 plans: qualified computer technology and equipment is now allowed as higher education expenses from the plan, so distributions from 529 plans to buy a computer, for example, for college will not be taxable.

Earned Income Tax Credit: increased EITC amounts for families with 3 or more children and additional marriage penalty relief.

Additional Child Tax Credit: earnings threshold is lowered to $3,000, helping more people qualify for the credit and receive more money; for 2008 the earnings threshold was $8,500
Vehicle purchase: state and local sales taxes paid for purchases of qualified new motor vehicles are deductible.

AMT: the one year typical patch for 2009 of the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) to prevent as many as 24 million middle-income households from being hit with a tax that was originally designed to prevent the very wealthy from avoiding taxes.

- from www.hrblock.com

Cultural Diversity Fair

The University of Kentucky presents the 20th Cultural Diversity Festival, which aims to promote cultural awareness to the UK campus and Lexington community through a month of activities and events.

This year the festival offers approximately 30 events throughout the month of March to UK students, faculty, and staff, and is also hoping to reach out to the Lexington community more than ever before. Cultural Diversity Festival kicks off with International Talent Night at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 28 in Memorial Hall. This exciting event will feature entertainment by people from all over the world.

Taste of Our World will be held from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. March 4 in the Grand Ballroom of the UK Student Center. This event features a diverse menu of culture-rich foods from across the continents.

Tickets will be sold at the door for each serving of the dishes from around the world. Tickets are $1 each or seven tickets for $5.

Payment will be accepted in cash, Plus Account or Flex Dollars. Saturday, March 28, the Cultural Diversity Festival will wrap up its month of events by hosting a community event at Woodland Park in Lexington.

"Party in the Park" will offer various recreational activities for people of all ages.

For a complete list of events, visit www.uky.edu/DiversityFestival/schedule.html or contact the UK Office of International Affairs at (859) 257-4067.

Thursday, February 26, 2009

Research opportunity

University of Florida is conducting a research study, "Family Health Self-Empowerment Project" through our local YMCA.

Its purpose is to determine whether a Health-Smart Behavior Workshop increases health-promoting behaviors and improves health outcomes. You must be at least 18 years old to participate.

You will be required to participate in a 4 hour workshop (March 7 or April 18) dealing with health information and health-related behaviors. You will also be required to complete several questionnaires.

If interested, you may earn up to $120. Call Natalie Corbett at the North Lexington YMCA , 258-9622 between 9a-430p.

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

The African Company presents...

Richard lll by Carlyle Brown

April 2-4, 7:30 p.m., Briggs Theatre - In 1821 a small band of African-American actors took on the classics and the white establishment at the same time. From backstage squabbles and romances to a center stage "classic" battle for pride and a survival, this moving and inspiring play highlights a stirring chapter in the history of American theater. Tickets: general-$15; UK faculty/staff/seniors-$10; students-$5. Sponsored by the UK Department of Theatre. More info 859-257-4929.
Contact:
rsams100@uky.edu
Website:
www.singletarytickets.com

Jabari Asim: What Obama Means

Jabari Asim: "What Obama Means"

Feb. 26, 7 p.m., Worsham Theatre, Student Center -

(Black History Month Event) Accomplished journalist, author, commentator and lecturer Jabari Asim will discuss his book "What Obama Means: For Our Culture, Our Politics, Our Future." His presentation defines the context of Obama's presidency and what it could mean to Americans of all backgrounds. Free and open to the public. Sponsored by Martin Luther King Jr. Cultural Center, Student Government, and other academic programs and student groups. More info 859-257-4130.

Monday, February 23, 2009

Census jobs

Census Bureau to hire 2,000 workers across the state for the 2010 census. A Lexington Office is already open. Positions include address listers, office clerks, recruiting assistants, crew leaders and field operation supervisors.

The pay starts at $10.50 per hour. You may go to www.2010censusjobs.gov/ or call 1-866-861-2010

Friday, February 20, 2009

Follow the Drinking Gourd

Wednesday, February 25, 7 PM, Carrick Theater -

Transylvania UniversityMessage Theater and Transylvania University presents Follow the Drinking Gourd: A Black History Month Cabaret Performance featuring contemporary and classic poetry by African-Americans along with African Dance and song.

This event is free and open to the public!

Players: Whit Whitaker, Marcus Wilkerson, Buddy Clark, LaNora Long, Veronica Spriggs, Jude McPherson, and Seidah Majeed.Poets include: Frank X Walker, Yusef Komunyakaa, Rita Dove, Claude McKay, Keith Wilson, Tara Betts and more! Sponsored by the Transylvania University Multicultural Affairs Department.

Celebration of Negro Spirituals

Host: Good Shepherd Episcopal Church

Date: Sunday, February 22, 2009
Time: 3:00pm - 4:30pm
Location: Good Shepherd Episcopal Church
Street: 533 E. Main St.
City/Town: Lexington

This is a celebration of the Negro Spiritual, as Black History Month 2009 comes to a close, but NEVER an end, in a year where history itself has been made yet once again. Whit Whitaker and Reginald Smith, Jr., brothers in Christ, friendship and song, collaborate to celebrate this beautiful and wonderful music genre, accompanied by UK Musicologist Diana Hallman, PhD and John Kevin Linker, Organist and Choirmaster of Good Shepherd Episcopal Church.

Come to listen, praise and celebrate some of these magnificent folk tunes on arrangements by different composers.

This is a free event, however donations will be accepted at the door and during intermission. All proceeds will go towards the two singers' July 2009 choir residency in Ely England where they will be singing in residence at Ely Cathedral for 10 days.

Thursday, February 19, 2009

Jazz Concert

The Blue Note 7 will celebrate 70 years of Blue Note Records with an all-star septet featuring Musical Director and pianist Bill Charlap, trumpeter Nicholas Payton, tenor saxophonist Ravi Coltrane, alto saxophonist/flutist Steve Wilson, guitarist Peter Bernstein, bassist Peter Washington and drummer Lewis Nash. The Blue Note 7 will take the stage at Singletary Center for the Arts on Saturday, March 14 at 7:30pm.

The Blue Note 7 tour is a true collaboration, an all-star band comprised of the next generation of major players, all leaders in their own right. They are the A-list of accomplished arrangers and composers, steeped in the Blue Note tradition, re-imagining this time-honored repertoire in a fresh way.

This event is co-sponsored by the Office of Multicultural Student Programming. Tickets for this event are based on seating location and range from $40 to $30. Tickets can be purchased through the Singletary Center Ticket Office at 859.257.4929, via the web at www.singletarytickets.com or in person at the Ticket Office.

########

Jazz Concert

Lexington, KY (February 4, 2009). The Blue Note 7 will celebrate 70 years of Blue Note Records with an all-star septet featuring Musical Director and pianist Bill Charlap, trumpeter Nicholas Payton, tenor saxophonist Ravi Coltrane, alto saxophonist/flutist Steve Wilson, guitarist Peter Bernstein, bassist Peter Washington and drummer Lewis Nash. The Blue Note 7 will take the stage at Singletary Center for the Arts on Saturday, March 14 at 7:30pm.

The Blue Note 7 tour is a true collaboration, an all-star band comprised of the next generation of major players, all leaders in their own right. They are the A-list of accomplished arrangers and composers, steeped in the Blue Note tradition, re-imagining this time-honored repertoire in a fresh way.
This event is co-sponsored by the Office of Multicultural Student Programming. Tickets for this event are based on seating location and range from $40 to $30. Tickets can be purchased through the Singletary Center Ticket Office at 859.257.4929, via the web at www.singletarytickets.com or in person at the Ticket Office.

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Job Fair

Fayette County Public Schools will host its 3rd Annual Job Fair, Saturday, February 28, 2009 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon at Tates Creek High School, 1111 Centre Parkway, Lexington, KY 40517.

Principals from every school and hiring managers from every department in the district will be there! Bring copies of your resume and meet with the people who can "Make It Happen"! If you are looking for a job in transportation, food service, maintenance, administration, counseling, teaching or more, then this job fair is for you!!

Please make plans to attend! You do not need to pre-register to attend. If you have questions, please call 859-381-4740.

Sunday, February 15, 2009

Another Good Friday

Hello All, Looking for some good, clean, relaxing entertainment?

Please join us for "Another Good Friday" starting in February from 7:30pm -9:30pm.

Attached are flyers to upcoming events happening at the Imani Family LifeCenter.

Another Good Friday"

The line-up is as follows:

February 6th - Willie Eames (flyer attached)
February 13th - Sissy Williams
February 20th - Frank "X" Walker (flyer attached)
February 27th - University Choir from Tuskegee, Alabama

These events are outreach/fund-raising activities sponsored by the Imani Baptist Church Pastor's Aid Auxiliary.

Imani Baptist Church
1555 Georgetown Road
Lexington, Kentucky 40511
(859)231-1555

Hampton University

Hampton University is genuinely concerned with the difficulty many students have in the transition from high school to college. In 1953, Hampton University established a remedy to this widespread situation, by initiating an educational program known as the Pre-College Summer Session for High School Graduates.

This sincere commitment is still alive and well at Hampton University and is now known as the Hampton University Pre-College Program.This program also has scholarships but you will have to contact the institution.

Science Mathematics English Enrichment Program

Hampton University School of Science & the National Admissions Science Foundation Special Programs

June 23 – July 24, 2009

Attendees Course List Fees The School of Science at Hampton University invites you to apply to

SMEEP is a five-week residential program students with a declared major in science, engineering, or Academics mathematics. SMEEP students can earn up to nine hours of college HU Admissions level mathematics, computer science, and English credits.

Students will meet research scientists, go on field trips, and participate in pre-college activities.?
Additional courses and/or research activities are offered to students who already have excellent preparation in mathematics.

The program pays for tuition, room, board, and fieldtrips. Students will be asked to purchase their textbooks once they arrive.

Application Requirements

To apply, you must provide the following:
1. A completed application
2. A one page essay discussing your career goals and how you feel you would benefit from SMEEP
3. Two letters of recommendation. At least one of the letters must be from a mathematics or science teacher.
4. A transcript

Additional Information 1. 25 students will be accepted to the program 2. All application material must be received by March 23, 2009 for consideration 3. Applications will be reviewed in the order in which they are received.

Contact

For more information about the SMEEP program, please contact: Dr. Douglas DePriest Dean’s Office, School of Science Hampton University Hampton, VA 23668 (757) 727-5795 douglas.depriest@hamptonu.edu.

Education Summit 2009

EDUCATION SUMMIT 2009
Improving Student Achievement: Parenting Makes The Difference!

Convening over 200 Parents, Educators, Business/Community Leaders, and Students

Featuring
Keynote Speaker:
Byron Garrett
CEO for National PTA

"...encouraging parents of inner city children to become more involved in their child's educational success".

Enrolling for the:
"Louisville Urban League
Parent Leadership Academy"
Improving Student Achievement

Saturday, February 21, 2009
8:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
at
Central High School
1130 West Chestnut Street
Louisville, KY 40203

Lunch Provided

FREE ADMISSION!




Download Flyer


For more information
visit us online at www.lul.org
or call: (502) 566-3383

Tuskegee University Choir

Come and enjoy the sounds
Golden Voices Choir

Friday, February 27

Imani Baptist Church

1555 Georgetown Road
Lexington, KY40511
7:00pm

$10 DONATION
For more information, CALL: (859) 231-1555

Job Fair

First Baptist Church Bracktown presents the
"Faith by Works Career Fair and Conference"
LEXINGTON, KY.
First Baptist Church Bracktown cordially invites you to attend the “Faith by Works Conference” on Saturday, March 7th from 8:30am-12:30pm. The event will be held at the church located at 3016 Bracktown Road off of Leestown Road in Lexington, Kentucky.
Faith by Works is a FREE conference designed to give participants the tools and resources needed to navigate through these difficult economic times. Workshop topics include:
· Resume Writing
· Interviewing Skills
· Help for Small Businesses
· Financial Literacy
· Dealing with Emotional Stress
· Help with Insurance—Medicaid and Medicare
· How to Apply for a Job with the State
· How to Avoid Foreclosure
· Social Networking
· Resource Fair featuring local businesses and services
“Our vision and inspiration for this conference comes from the Book of James where we learn that the true measure of our commitment to God is our service to others, said Pastor C. B. Akins, Sr. James 2:18 says, “But someone will say, you have faith…and I have works. Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.”
This Free conference is open to the public. Please come and bring a friend! Child care is provided for children up to three years of age

Lyric Theater Task Force

!!! COMING ATTRACTION !!!

LFUCG COUNCIL WORK SESSION
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2009- 3:00 PM
COUNCIL CHAMBERS, 200 EAST MAIN STREET

SEEKING APPROVAL TO PLACE ON THE COUNCIL WORK DOCKET FOR FIRST READING, THE REIMBURSEMENT RESOLUTION FOR THE RELEASE OF THE $6 MILLION CONSTRUCTION DOLLARS FOR THE LYRIC THEATRE AND MUSEUM

YOUR HELP IS NEEDED:PLEASE CALL (258-3240) OR SEND EMAIL TO COUNCILMEMBERS (councilmembers@lfucg.com) ASKING FOR THEIR VOTE FOR THE RESOLUTION AND ATTEND THE COUNCIL MEETING ON TUESDAY!!!

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Brandon Heath

What:Christian Concert
When: Tuesday, February 24th 7:00
Where: Quest, 410 Sporting Ct.
Cost: It will be a free concert/no tickets with suggested donation of $10 at the door to support Step By Step.

Monday, January 12, 2009

Women's Faith Conference

Jan. 17, 2009

Location: Gano Baptist Church
Address: 212 Bevins Lane, Georgetown, KY

Additional information is provided below:

Information 9:00 Registration and Continental Breakfast
10:00 Conference Begins

Speakers

Suzanne Lindgren - Wife of the late John Lindgren, Guest speaker on faith: Sharing her testimony. Member of Porter Memorial Baptist Church

Angel Rohey - Sharing her testimony of near death in a fire. Member of Trinity Assembly of God.

Barbara Webb - Sharing her faith in accepting Christ and thru music and dance. Member of Consolidated Baptist Church.

Nancy Ryan - Speaker, Teacher sharing the message of faith. Member of Gano Baptist Church

CostPre-Registration = $5.00 (includes meal and materials)

At the Door = $8.00 (includes meal and materials)

Sponsored by Women on Mission and One Hope Trio

To Register by Telephone or for more information, call 502-863-3454.

Saturday, January 10, 2009

Job Centers

Central Kentucky Job Centers

The all-service centers were established by the ­Workforce Investment Act of 1998 so that adults, youth and displaced workers can get most of their needs met under one roof. The four centers in the Bluegrass region offer ­training, assessment, ­vocational rehabilitation and employment ­insurance ­benefits for residents in Anderson, Bourbon, Boyle, Clark, Estill, Fayette, Franklin, Garrard, Harrison, Jessamine, Lincoln, Madison, Mercer, Nicholas, Powell, Scott and Woodford counties. Similar offices are located throughout the state.The Bluegrass region’s centers are:

■ Lexington Central Kentucky Job Center, 1055 Industry Rd., Lexington. (859) 425-2180. Hours: 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Mon.-Thu., 8 a.m.-noon Fri.

■ Georgetown Central ­Kentucky Job Center, 1000 W. Main St., Georgetown. (502) 863-2402. Hours: 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Mon.-Thu., 8 a.m.-noon Fri.

■ Danville Central Kentucky Job Center, 121 E. Broadway, Danville. (859) 239-7411. Hours: 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Thu., 7:30 a.m.-noon Fri.

■ Richmond Central Kentucky Job Center, 595 S. Keeneland Dr., Richmond. (859) 624-2564. Hours: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon., Tue.; 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Wed., Thu.; 7:30 a.m.-noon Fri.

For more information, visit www.ckyjobs.com.

www.kentucky.com

Thursday, January 8, 2009

Job Fair

First Baptist Church Bracktown presents the
"Faith by Works Conference"
LEXINGTON, KY.

First Baptist Church Bracktown cordially invites you to attend the “Faith by Works Conference” on Saturday, January 31, 2009 from 8:30am-12:30pm. The event will be held at the church located at 3016 Bracktown Road in Lexington, Kentucky.

Faith by Works is a FREE conference designed to give participants the tools and resources needed to navigate through these difficult economic times.

Workshop topics include:

· Resume Writing
· Interviewing Skills
· Help for Small Businesses
· Financial Literacy
· Dealing with Emotional Stress
· Help with Insurance—Medicaid and Medicare
· How to Apply for a Job with the State
· How to Avoid Foreclosure
· Social Networking
· Resource Fair featuring local businesses and services

“Our vision and inspiration for this conference comes from the Book of James where we learn that the true measure of our commitment to God is our service to others, said Pastor C. B. Akins, Sr. James 2:18 says, “But someone will say, you have faith…and I have works. Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.”

This Free conference is open to the public. Please come and bring a friend!

###

Elder Gershom Morrison

Elder Gershom Morrison will be speaking at

New Covenant House of God

On Friday night, January 9, 2009

616 Bourbon Street

Georgetown, KY

Services start at 7:00pm

COME CELEBRATE JESUS WITH US!

Monday, January 5, 2009

MLK Day Featured Events (Lexington)

The 2009 Featured Events:

The traditional Freedom March at 10:00 am On January 19, 2009 the Martin Luther King, Jr. Freedom March departs from downtown Lexington Center Heritage Hall on West Main Street at 10:00am. The Freedom March line-up begins at 9:00am in the corridor of Heritage Hall and continues until 10:00am.If your organization plans to march, please complete and return the form below, to Terry Allen, MLK March Coordinator, by January 14, 2009. Mr. Allen can be reached at the University of Kentucky by calling (829) 257-8927 or tallen@uky.edu for further information about the march.2009 Martin Luther King, Jr. Freedom March – Participant Registration Form (PDF file)

The Commemorative Program at 11:00 am The Commemorative Program begins at 11:00am in Lexington Center Heritage Halls East and Center.

The Ballou Senior High School, Marching Band Documentary at 2:00 pm, Kentucky

TheaterBallou is a documentary film about the Ballou Senior High School Marching Band from South East Washington DC. Ballou High School is a struggling inner city school where only 5% of its students go on after high school and graduate college. During the filming of this documentary 58 violent crimes occurred within 1500 feet of the school and our producer was robbed at knife point and beaten on the door steps of another DC public school. The Ballou Marching Band is a positive force in the lives of the students and in the community.

An 86 minute documentary showing at The Kentucky Theater, 214 E. Main Street, Lexington Kentucky. Showing begins at 2:00 pm.

Free parking is available in the Park Plaza Garage, adjacent to the Lexington Public Library, in the Lexington Fayette Urban County Government building garage, or on the street.

More about Ballou Senior High School Marching Band (watch video trailer).

MLK Day of Service

Martin Luther King Day of Service

Monday, Jan 19 9:00a at Over 25 different service project venues, Lexington-Fayette, KY
Join in Lexington's celebration of the Martin Luther King Day of Service. Looking to volunteer?

Call Miles, 233-4600 x-1485.

Price: Free and open to all

Phone: (859) 233-8182

Age Suitability: All Ages

Join in Lexington's celebration of the Martin Luther King Day of Service. Looking to volunteer?

-from www.kentucky.com

Celebrate MLK at Library

Shining Stars: Celebrate Martin Luther King Day

Thursday, Jan 15 1:30p

at Lexington Public Library-Eagle Creek Branch, Lexington, KY

Stories, songs, fingerplays, learning centers and a craft. Ages 3-5.

Price: free

Phone: (859) 231-5560

Stories, songs, fingerplays, learning centers and a craft.

Ages 3-5

I Have a Dream Speech Showings

Showings of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" Speech

Start: 01/17/2009 - 12:00 pm
End: 01/19/2009 - 4:00 pm

(Daily)

Location: Muhammad Ali Center

Address: 144 N. Sixth Street

City: Louisville

State: Kentucky
Phone: (502) 584-9254
Website: www.alicenter.org

Price: "I Have a Dream" speech showings are FREE

Description:
In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday, the Ali Center will show the film of Dr. King’s legendary “I Have a Dream” speech given in 1963 at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C. Plus, travel back in time through the Ali Center’s 2½ levels of award-winning exhibits. Explore the Civil Rights Movement and experience the triumphs of notable African Americans in history. In the spirit of Dr. King, we hope you will make plans to share the “dream” with us.

Saturday, Jan. 17 - 12 noon 1:30 p.m., 3:00 p.m.
Sunday, Jan. 18 - 2:30 p.m.
Monday, Jan. 19 - 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. every hour

African American Ball

2009 African American Forum

Saturday Jan 17, 2009

The African American Ball is the African American Forum's signature event. Attendees will be treated to an incomparable presentation of art, culture, entertainment, music, dancing, fashion and fellowship, all in an elegant, formal atmosphere. LEX 18s Dia Davidson will host this event.

Arts, Culture & Entertainment: Where it all started Bringing Back Those Good Ol Days! is the theme that will permeate the atmosphere all evening long.

Starts at 7:30 p.m.

(859)255-2653 www.AAFinc.com
Location: Lexington Convention Center

Trace Your Family History!

Family-History Workshop

Saturday Apr 12, 2008 - Saturday Dec 13, 2008

Second Saturday of each month. The Kentucky Genealogical Society joins the Kentucky Historical Society with a series of family-history workshops. Topics range from how to begin documenting your ancestry to specialized resources for experienced genealogists. A light lunch is available at a cost of $6, payable at the door. 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Registration by 12 noon the Friday prior is required. Call for more information. Center for Kentucky History is located at 100 West Broadway, Frankfort.

(502)564-1792
Location: Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History

MLK Day at the Explorium

Explorium Celebrates MLK DayMonday Jan 19, 2009

Visit Explorium of Lexington to honor Martin Luther Kiing Day with your children and family. Explore a timeline of Dr. King's achievements. Admission will only be $1 for this special day. (All regular exhibits will be open to explore from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.)

(859)258-3253 http://www.explorium.com
Location: Explorium of Lexington

MLK Breakfast

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Unity Breakfast & Celebration March
Monday Jan 19, 2009
MLK Jr. Unity Breakfast starts at 7:30 - 9:30 a.m. Tickets are $17 each. Available at Heritage Hall or call the number listed. The breakfast will be followed by the MLK Jr. Celebration March at 9:30 a.m. Free and open to the public.

(859)225-0370 Location: Lexington Convention Center

Saturday, January 3, 2009

MLK Day 2009

Check out www.uky.edu/MLK/ for MLK events in 2009.

The MLK Holiday site is intended to provide a central source for Lexingtonians and members of the UK community as they prepare to celebrate MLK Day.




-from www.uky.edu