!@✔A Blog by Mrs. Bynum

Top 10 Things I Do Not Like About Politicians

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 17:06:00 +0000

Lately I have recieved some tweets from politicians asking for my support for the candidacy for blah blah blah. I just have one problem with the way they tend to do things. Why is there always such a big push to get supporters on board and then after they win by getting my vote then they fail to contact or connect with me ever again. This is a terrible thing to do because sometimes they will even knock on the door and try to play the friendly hometown do good person. I understand the reason why they do this but I don't understand why they don't continue that throughout their term once elected. This is very misleading to me...if you start out one way I think you should strive to keep that going from then on. Here are some things that I don't like about politics.

1. Politicians tend to choose what is popular or what is easy. They tend to be one or the other: Democrat or Republican. What about Independent, Whig, Federalist, and all the others out there. It is time to have more than two options to choose from on a ballot.

2. Politicians don't seem to have many good examples of how to win honestly. All the talking about each other and going into a person's childhood where lots of mistakes have been made is not a good way to win. Pick some people who have run honestly by sticking to the issues and I am sure they will get the most votes. Win Honestly.

3. Politicians will say one thing to get your vote and do something totally different when they get into office. There should be a major penalty against them if they don't do what they say. We don't need people who can't produce good/

4. Most politicians are not worried or don't like to talk about the touchy feely issues that involve the most people (poverty, racism, sexism, & quality education). It seems to be a touchy subject for most of them but some seem to do pretty well at addressing what they intend to do during there appointed time. I really don't care for the ones who have no strategy for all the bumps that might come up along the way.

5. Politicians run just to improve their business relations. They are not in it for the people but they just want to capitilize on what they know. They have the inside scoop on when to make their major business moves and they take advantage of that inside information. I think it is wrong and there should be something in place to make sure that politicians that are in a certain field of business can offer their expertise but should not be allowed to make the final voting decision if they have a stake in the outcome.

6. Politicians don't take their personal lives very serious. They tend to not want to be role models for what everyone else should and could be doing with their lives.

7. Politicians are not held accountable. They just do whatever they want to do by picking their best friends to sit on their boards and committees. I think this is an awful thing to do because most friends will do what makes the politician happy for fear that they might loose their job. Most times this leads to no improvements at all.

8. Politicians have a way of not answering the question. They have this way of getting off the subject by talking about something that has nothing to do with what you asked. For example, if you ask them what they intend to do about so and so...they'll say well my mother always said that there would be days like this.

9. Politicians should have public speaking 101 class. I understand that not all politicians graduated from high school but I have a problem with when they are doing a public speaking engagement and there subject and verb does not agree. Come on you have to be able to make a complete sentence if you want to convey a message.

10. Politician should not hide when they have or have not done something wrong. It really ticks me off when a local newspaper releases news about the scandal that a politician has been involved in and the newspaper states that the politician was not available for an interview...they are no where to be found. Come on if you are a politician you should be man or woman enough to speak out on what you are being called out on. Don't lie it only leads to more and more lies and my grandmother always said that 'everything thats done in the dark will always come out in the light'. My grandmother is a wise woman.

So I leave these words and thoughts with all the current and potential politicians out there:
1. Don't lie, cheat, or steal
2. Be yourself or better
3. Get some people on board who will check you in your mess
4. Have love for and keep the best interest of the people
5. Meet with one old wise person at least once a week.
6. Hang around other politicians who are making real change happen
7. Stop making things so complicated
8. Don't have knock or have others knocking on people's door if you are not going to do it again when you are elected to office.
9. Stick to the issues and get a plan in place to make things happen. You'll need short term and long term goals. This is the only way to make something happen.
10. Be ready for all the curve balls that will get thrown your way.
Bonus tip:
11. Everyday that you are in office relax and reflect on what you could have done better.

To all the politicians who are attempting to do GOOD for the people. I thank and commend you for your efforts. Keep trying and don't give up.

That is all I have to say....

For more information get your copy of What You Should Know About Politics...But Don't: A Nonpartisan Guide to the Issues by Jessamyn Conrad.

We Are The World: Aren't We?

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 22:31:00 +0000

I have to say I so love to see people coming together. It brings a very special feeling all over me. I really treasure the new version of the song "We Are The World". I got chill bumps and something came over me 9 times. Yes, I counted exactly 9 times I felt moved & felt a sense a oneness with them. I agree with the words of the song "Let's Start Living". You will have to watch the video for yourself to see exactly what I am talking about. I am sure you will be moved. We are the World 25 for Haiti was such an excellent idea. They recorded it and posted it first to youtube so that it could reach billions of people. I have to say that I first heard that they were working on it first on TV and then I watched it over on Aramatic's blog and then thought to myself I can not let the opportunity pass me by. I have to share the video on my blog as well. Aramatic, I have to say that I think they new version will touch more people than the first. I like both versions but the latest is lovely and heart touching to see all the musicians and artists coming together. What do you all think about the new version of We Are The World?

Click HERE to see and listen to the latest version of We Are The World 25 for Haiti Official Video for yourself.

For those of you who have never heard the original here it is.

Please remember to never forget Haiti because it could easily be the latest news happening in America. We are blessed and I hope you will join me in blessing Haiti as they go through these very difficult and trying times.

You Can Text WORLD to 50555 to give $10*

*standard message and data rates apply.

Who Is Abagond?

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 01:52:00 +0000

Todays' spotlight is shining on anonymous blogger by the name of Abagond. I wonder who writes that stuff. I know for sure they are a very opinionated person who does not mind ruffling feathers. I love reading the celebrity or television personality biographies that he writes. It is almost like he is creating his own version of wikipedia. I have to say I would much rather read his version of the truth. He talks about race as if he might have earned a doctorate degree in the subject - No Really! Saying things that most people think but would never say in public, he stirs up lots of mess of the internet. He makes lots of people mad but most people respect his opinion and somewhat agree with what he is saying about most things. I am one of thousands of people who visit his blog on a weekly basis. Go HERE to read his blog and be sure to come back and let me know what you thought about his latest post. He is quite a character, don't you agree? Abagond or whatever your name is Keep doing your Thing by continuing to improving your writing skills by putting 500 words a day on that wordpress blog of yours. I hope to become half the writer that you are because you sure have a way with words. I just have one question for you Abagond......

WHO ARE YOU?

I am so nosey I just have to know if I need to add you to the Arkansas blogger listing even though you said you live in New York...you are so COOL! I thought at one time you could be a computer program that has gone wild and is now executing a macro to stir up the human population. ha ha ha

Thanks but No Thanks Sarah Palin Is Coming To Arkansas

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 01:22:00 +0000

Sarah Palin is coming to Arkansas and the tickets to see her cost from $35 - $65. I really thought about going to see her just to listen to her say "Thanks but No Thanks". I have to admit that I think she does not have any chance of becoming President by 2012. Sarah, "Not no but HELL NO". She is too funny to me; I really can not take her serious when it comes to handling all these issues we are dealing with. The tickets to attend her dinner are $175 but get this the reception tickets are $500. All I can say is that these prices are out of my price range so from me to the Republican Party of Arkansas "Thanks but No Thanks - those tickets are too rich for my blood". I am sure they are trying to keep people like me out of their convention. I think she is doing a good job a promoting her book Going Rogue: An American Life.

For all my republican visitors check out the Arkansas Republican website to see what is going on.

Happy Valentines Day

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 01:09:00 +0000

I just want to take this time to share the holiday love with you. I am truly grateful for all of you that keep my blog relevant by your visit, comments, and most of all thanks for your support. I only hope that I am making a world of difference in your life. Please continue to support me as I learn more about how to be a better blogger. I hope that your Valentines' Day is filled with lots of love and happiness. If no one else tells you Happy Valentines Day just know that I said it first here HAPPY VALENTINES DAY! Enjoy yourself and eat lots of sweets.

Top 10 Ways To Get A Fabulous Internship

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 03:26:00 +0000

If you are a senior in college then you are probably thinking about what you will do to fulfill your internship credit requirement to graduate. Am I right? For all the ramen noodle eating college students out there in the world, I have some news for you and BOY will you be glad you read this information early on. By the way......yes, I know and remember the ramen noodles (pronounced rae man). Anyways, I would like to offer my expertise in helping you land that internship you want so BADLY.

First of all, keep in mind that you have to stand out in the pile of resumes/coverletters/tweets/email and walkins that are all interested in the same thing you want...... A FABULOUS INTERNSHIP AT COMPANY XYZ.

Below are some tips for you:

1. Ask for a reference from one or two of your favorite college professors. I am sure they will be able to say nice things about your academic work and your enthusiam for learning what you majored in. Most professors are apart of networking associations and have lots of contacts in the profession that you are trying to get into. So start with your professors! Most times professors will have a ready made list of potential internships available in the dean's office.

2. Volunteer your time at an organization that you would love to intern at. This way you get the inside scoop on who the go to people are. By offering your services for FREE you will be able to open up the door to lots of opportunities to get your shine on. The trick to this tip is to get a volunteer job early on so that you have one foot in the door for when you ask about their internship program. They'll already know about your work and professionalism and you'll know the people as well as the job so it works out both ways.

3. Get out that old phone book. Open the phone book to yellow page section and look for companies that might be a good fit. Some companies might not have an internship program set up. It would be wonderful if you could have an internship workplan description in mind just in case they ask you to describe what you could offer their company. By work plan, I mean a detailed list of action steps that you will take to accomplish certain goals by the end of the internship program. Get your thinking cap on and think BIG!
Call and follow this script:
Hi My Name is ______________________ and I am a student at the University of _____________.
1. Who would I need to speak with to find out more information about your companies internship program?
2. Is he/she in the office?
3. May I speak with Ms. or Mr So & So

4. Use twitter to do a search on terms related to your internship work field. It will allow you to come up with potential contacts to send a generic direct mesage to.
  Here is an example generic tweet message
   @latonyabynum : My name is LaTonya. I am interested in the internship at company XYZ. What is the
      best way to apply?

5. Get a piece of paper out and write down the top 10 successful people who come to mind when you think of your college major. In other words, who are the experts in your field and where do they work. If you know this information then just do a google search and find out their companies' telephone and follow the script in Tip # 3.

6. Remember the sign on your hair salon's window that said "Walk Ins Welcome". Try it. Just pick out three of four internship locations that you are interested in and walk in and ask the receptionist about the companies internship. Be prepared for them to say we don't have an internship program. Tell her that you would like to speak with the manager on duty and thats when you whip out your envisioned internship program plan.

7. Ask your current employer. For those who are already working for a company that could definitely benefit from your newly learned college skills, just pitch your idea to your supervisor and see what he/she says. I am sure they would say that you can't work overtime then that is when you would pitch your internship idea to them. Go from there and see how that works out.

8. Join the network of professionals. Google your major plus the word 'association'. For instance, just type these words into google if you are majoring in fashion merchandising. .....Fashion Merchandising + Association .... Once you find some local associations that are related to your major then call and ask to speak to the membership chair of the association. Follow this script:
  Hi My name is __________ and I am a student at the University of _____________.
Could you tell me a little bit about your student membership program?
When is your next membership meeting?

After you join then make sure to network with the people who can get you the best internship set up. Definitely introduce your self to the president of the association. This could potentially turn into a job offer later after you graduate. Be sure to get involved with their activities.... this is a great way to showcase your leadership style and learn some cool stuff along the way.

9. Walk over to your school's career center and ask the counselor for internship ideas. Most likely they will have all the resources you need in order to get you started. Most companies contact your school's career center anyway to alert them of internships, job opportunities, and seminars in the area.

10. Join an online message board related to your field of work and ask for advice on getting an internship at Company XYZ. This is a sure way to make friends as well as network with people who are in the same boat as you are. They might have the inside scoop on how to get your foot in the door with the company your are interested in. These days in time please remember it is all about WHO YOU KNOW!

Bonus Tip:
11. Library Advertisting: create a flyer announcing that you are looking for an internship.Give some brief details and offer an email address or phone number as contact information. I would definitely use the email. Ask the librarian to post the message on their announcement board.

You will need a well prepared resume, cover letter, and a one to two page work plan idea to make sure you are prepared to take full advantage of these tips.

Hope these tips help to get you that internship you want!! If all else fails then just buy the book titled
The Intern Files: How to Get, Keep, and Make the Most of Your Internship by Jamie Fedorko.

P.S. I got my internship by using Tip # 1.
http://www.latonyabynum.com/

New Online Store Features Plus Size Items: Shop4Plussize.blogspot.com

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 02:01:00 +0000

For the plus size women who love fashion, uniqueness, and most of all a fresh new look there is a new blog you have definitely got to check out called Shop4Plussize. The Shop4plussize blog was created on February 2010 to share items first from the founders, LaTonya Bynum, own closet starting first with her own wedding dress. Her collection will continue to expand into offering other items that she wants to share with the world. The Shop4+size blog hopes to become a place where every plus size woman will continue to visit as they search for their next outfit. Stay tuned as this blog continues to develop into an exciting fashion adventure... To learn more about Shop4plussize then click here.

Make sure to tell a couple of people about this new online store founded by LaTonya Bynum.

http://www.latonyabynum.com/

Many thanks to shopmycloset.com and crochetlove.net for helping me to manifest the idea.

Ellen Degeneres Records 1100th Show

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 22:27:00 +0000

Between her dancing, hunching a table, Tony laughing so loud you can barely hear the music playing, her dumping people in the water tank, interviewing people who are unheard of, awesome gifts for everybody on the show, and her love of playing those silly games, I just love watching her show when I am at home during the week. The Ellen show comes on through the week at 4:00 Central Standard Time. Her show is full of awkward interviews with people I would actually want to meet in real life. A lot of people don't like her or her show because she is a lesbian, but guess what? I could care less about her sexual preference for women. Ellen ROCKS and most people are just jealous. Anyway, here is my favorite Ellen show Episode with Halle Berry. She even has a book called My Point....And I Do Have One that I didn't know about until now.

Here is the video: HERE

Do you like the Ellen Show? What was your favorite episode?

All I can say is that White Woman has it going on.

Top 10 Arkansas Bloggers

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 21:51:00 +0000

In a time when most well known bloggers are from states with a population of over 3 to four million people, I would like to point out what Arkansas bloggers have to offer. I want to take time to point out some of my favorite small town bloggers who live in Arkansas. Sometimes I wish there was one website with a directory that lists all the current bloggers by state. But since that website has not been created, here is a starting list for the state of Arkansas. I frequently visit these sites and have added quick link to all of them on my blog.

35 Before 35 - Latiste: a blog about her journey to weight loss.

A Beautiful Frenzy - Amy: a blog with interesting & creative photos, undiscovered music talent, celebration of michael jackson, and lessons learned.

Beautifully Brown - Bianca: a make-up blog and creative writer

Being Mrs Jones - Christina: a new mom finding her way to living a prosperous life.

Full Figure Plus - Glen: a blog about everything dealing with the plus size fashion industry

I Adore Makeup - Anna: a make-up blog talking about everyday life

Lemont Free: a blog of thoughts and a different perspective on everything in the media

MzMidnyte - Christina: a new blog finding her way through inspirational quotes, self-help messages, while providing make-up resources.

Thoughts of a Black Southerngal: a strong woman that tells it like it is.

LaTonyaBynum: a blog where you will find resources, how to articles, and tips for living a healthier life.

To learn more about blogging get the book Blogging for Dummies by Susannah Gardner. If you are an Arkansas blogger, please leave a comment and tell us a little bit about your blog and where to find it.

What is a Virtual Assistant?

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 20:46:00 +0000

By my own definition "a virtual assistant is a admistrative supportor turned amazing project manager that can perform specialized tasks for a variety of needs". They are hired on a fee for service basis. Somewhat like a contract employee that is hired to complete a specific job/task in a certain period of time, a virtual assistant is a resource or GO-TO person to get your organizational mission accomplished. Virtual assistants specialize in helping people, small businesses, non-profits, schools, universities, and major companies with just about anything they need. If you don't want the hassle of having a new employee then hiring a virtual assistant might be just the thing for you. I kind of like the idea of becoming a virtual assistant. They specialize in doing tasks that you might think of as tedious and time consuming.

Below is a list of a couple of things I (http://www.latonyabynum.com/) specialize in as a virtual assistant:

Contact Management:
Creation of Contact Lists, Mailing List, Mass Mailing, Business Card Scanning, Email Database Management

Personal Assistance:
Paying Bills, Travel Arrangements, Editing Proofreading, Data Entry, Internet Research, Professional Peer Reviewed Journal Research, Project Management, Spreadsheet Creation

Document Services:
Creating Contracts/Request for Bids, Technical Proposals, Document & Photo Scanning, Form Letters, Mail Merges, Manuals, PDF File Conversion, Proposals, Transcription, Word Processing, Grant Writing,Word Processing

Marketing Support:
Automatic responder, Mailing Campaign, Email Blasts, PowerPoint Presentations, Newsletters, Flyers, Ads in JPEG, PNG, GIF format, Press Releases

Desktop Publishing:
Brochures, Business Cards, Flyers, Invitations, Labels, Letterhead, Postcards, Signs & Banners

Social Networking Support:
Facebook, Linkedin, My Space, Twitter

Software I Use

PayPal • Blogger • FeedBurner • Microsoft Access • Microsoft Excel • SAS • Microsoft Outlook • Microsoft Publisher • Microsoft Word • Microsoft PowerPoint • Arc GIS •

If you are wanting to learn more about becoming a virtual assistant feel free to get this book, Virtual Assistant, The Series: Become a Highly Successful Sought Out After VA by Diana Ennem

I appreciate http://www.todaysadmin.com/ for providing the original administrative support service list for this blog post. I could actually consult with their company because their support services match with what I can do as well. If you are a virtual assistant, an individual needing any of the services mentioned above, or someone who have used the services of a virtual assistant then feel free to contact either of us (email me: latonyabynum at hotmail dot com) or contact the guru's at http://www.todaysadmin.com/ or http://myvirtualgenie.com/. If you decide to contact them make sure that you ask to speak to Jennifer Rai and tell her that you heard about her services on http://www.latonyabynum.com/. Leave a comment below if you want to let everybody know about your virtual assistant services.

For details of my virtual assistant services contact me at latonyabynum at hotmail dot com.

How To Double Your Salary In Two Years

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:54:00 +0000

On May 2004, I graduated from the University of Central Arkansas with a Bachelor's Degree in Health Education with an emphasis in Community Health and Spanish. When I graduated, I definitely knew I had to get a job right away. I had a little over $20,000 in student loan debt. The student loan people had just sent me a letter saying that I had a couple of months to get my act together. I started the process of looking for a job....I designed several fancy looking resumes and went on lots of interviews.

Finally, I recieved notice that I had met the minimum qualifications for employment as a document examiner. Long story short, I went for the interview and got the job on December 2004. My annual starting pay was $16,000 so I had to keep my part-time job while working the new full-time position. In less than two years, I had gained enough experience and showed enough professionalism to apply for and get another position in the same department paying $33,000. Here are a couple of things that I can truly say played a major part in me doubling my salary in a little over two years.

Here is my Twenty Six Month Plan for Doubling Your Salary:

1. Be courteous at all times. Just be yourself or better yet improve your public image and everything else will fall into place.

2. Be eager to learn new things. You will easily be known as the go-to person.

3. Volunteer your talent for work related associations related to your area of expertise.

4. Go beyond the call of your duty. When you are asked to do something always try to do your very best. Turn the project in ahead of schedule. They'll appreciate the extra review time.

5. Follow up with contacts to make sure they have what they need from you.

6. Attend company sponsored trainings.

7. Gain experience by asking to work on projects outside of your normal scope of work.

8. Be a team player by offering to help your boss and/or co-workers with their project. Only when you have completed your project.

9. Ask for help if you don't know how to do something. Most people like helping others.

10. Attend social gatherings (potlucks, christmas parties, and other work related functions). It gives your peers an opportunity to get to know you outside of your normal work activities.

Bonus Tip:
11. Get caught up at home. Sometimes you might need extra time to meet the deadline for certain projects. Ask about compensatory time and if you are allowed to work on the project from home.

Hope these tips help to you double your salary. Most of all just be YOU & you'll get that raise.

Also, I would like to recommend Coach Yourself to Success: 101 Tips from a Personal Coach for Reaching Your Goals At Work and In Life by Talane Miedaner. I read this book alot to remind myself of my goals.

Feel free to leave a comment and let me know if you have any other suggestions for tips that will take my career to the next level. I am 28 now and I would love to retire by age 40 :)

10 Ways to Save Money On Monthly Living Expenses (Cuts At Least $400 Off)

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 16:36:00 +0000

There are bookoos of ways to save money nowadays. By changing some of your spending habits, looking closer at your monthly expenses, and calling a couple of numbers on a monthly basis you can be one step closer to saving money for all the stuff you would like to have. I would like to share a couple of things that I have done to lower my monthly living expenses. I hope some of these tips will help you save a little extra money. My tips might be a little too extreme for people who can't live without cable and hate talking on the phone to bill collectors.

1. Switch your Internet service to AT&T. I pay $19.95 per month for my internet service.

2. Use 1-800-FREE-411 for all of your directory assistance calls. Instead of paying almost $5.00 for each time you are trying to get in contact with someone who may or may not be listed in the phone book. You will have to sit through a couple of phone commercials before you can get the number you need. I think it is still worth it though.

3. Use Voice Over Internet Phone Service with PhonePower. I pay less than $10.00 per month for my phone service (actually $8.83 per month). I have not had any complaints. It works just like regular phone service does. Try it you might like it. Free local and nationwide calls. You even get a couple minutes a month for international calls.

4. Refinance your mortgage. Call your mortgage company and ask about your refinancing options. I was able to cut $30 off of my monthly mortgage payment by doing this. That is $30.00 I am sending them in principal payment instead. Tip: refinance where possible (car, school loans, and credit card debt)

5. Take your breakfast & lunch to work. By taking your meals to work you won't have to buy breakfast meal from Burger King $6.00 (my fav is #1 Ham meal with small orange juice) and lunch from Wendy's $4.00 (my fav is double stack with everthing on it, biggie fry, 5-pc nugget, and a large water). Now I am able to maintain my weight and have hubby to prepare me a bowl of leftovers from the night before. It works for me.

6. Get married. Enough said!! Two incomes are better than one. (Disclaimer: Savings may vary depending on the person)

7. Use your local library as a place to check out movies and books. All you have to do is ask them to order the stuff you want and they can request it from the network of libraries and you will have it in a couple or days or so. This is a sure way to cut those entertainment expenses down.

8. Get yourself a television converter box & rabbit ears. Call your cable company and ask for disconnection of your cable. I mean you have the library and with a converter box you'll be able to get the basic channels anyway. You don't need all those extra channels because there is nothing ever on T.V. anyway.

9. Call your county tax collector's office and ask about the Homestead Credit. This is a credit for property owners to get $350 or more taken off of their annual property tax bill. If you live in Arkansas and own property you definitely want to check into this tax credit application.

10. Last but not least, Call your credit card companies on a monthly basis and ask them to lower your interest rate and tell them what a good customer you have been. You will be surprised at how well this works. Some of them will even tell you about special promotions that are available to you. Take advantage of the ones that cost nothing to you.

Bonus savings (Save Money on Doctor Bills):
11. Eat Healthy and Be active
12. Get your annual health checkup

Hope this information helps you. By using these money saving tips I am sure you will be able to save at least $400 - $600 per month. You'll thank me later.

Miss America 2010 Winner: Caressa Cameron

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 07:29:00 +0000

Congratulations to Ms. Caressa Cameron (representing Virginia) who just won the title of Miss America. This is an honor and a priviledge. When they called her name she looked so surprised almost like she could not believe it herself. The former Miss America (Katie Stam) was trying to pin the crown on her head and Caressa was like a bobble head - could not squat still. She kept on bouncing around. She was too happy. I hope she takes many lessons from Ms. Vanessa Williams of how to overcome the stardom and make a career out of this achievement. Don't let them take you under Caressa. Stick close to those who were have been there for you before you made it to this point. I am sure you will have all the love and support you need as you take on this new phase of your life. Best of luck as you represent the crown of USA.

Here is the video if you missed it: HERE

Here she is in a Driving Under Influence Public Service Announcement: HERE

Let's just say we will leave the song "Listen" for Beyonce to sing.

5 Things I Would Not Mind Having Right About Now

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 01:28:00 +0000

Okay--so every girl/boy has to have a wishlist ready at all times. Just in case.....the Fairy Godmother comes around. Who knows...it could happen. I was just sitting here trying to think of things that I want but I am way to cheap to buy for myself. I know you are probably saying LaTonya, you will only live once, but I just have this thing about being in debt. I don't like it and I plan to retire by age 40 so I would rather not dig myself any deeper. Point blank.... Debt is SLAVERY. So here is a list of several things I would not mind having right about now. I have included pictures for the visual readers.

1. An energy efficient car ... 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid

2. Home Remodel Work..starting with the bathroom and then a dining area

3. New clothes/shoes...a whole new wardrobe from Cato, Lane Bryant & WomanWithin

4. Laptopwith a bigger screen

5. Two Flatscreen TV's: 1 for the living room and 1 for the bedroom

I am sure that all these things will come in due time :)'

Have you ever wanted something but had no business thinking about it whatsoever?

http://www.latonyabynum.com/

Workout: Inten - Sati by Patricia Moreno

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 02:20:00 +0000

This morning I was able to catch the Today's Show with Patricia Moreno talking about her new book "Inten-Sati" and her 7 basic principles for gaining inner peace . Inten-Sati is a mind, body, and heart training workout that allows you to look deep within and discover the best you. I decided to google her name and found out a little bit more about her and her techniques. I like that her exercise methods talk about the mind, body, and spirit. I have included a link to her video so you can see for yourself.

VIDEO: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ieGA_n5LFUw

For more information about her check out her website: http://www.patriciamoreno.com/

I also like the warrior declaration. Read it for yourself.

SATI WARRIOR DECLARATION
Today I stand as a warrior and I choose to be all I can be.
I stand for excellence in all areas of my life.
I look for confidence and approval in my own heart and mind, and what you think of me makes no difference.

I know that it is ultimately how I feel about myself that gives me the experience of my life, and shame, guilt, regret, resentment are the most deadly of all opponents. The only way they can be defeated is by absolute integrity, or the absence of contradiction between what I know, what I profess, and what I do. I know that when I lie to myself I am severed from my truth, which is my power, and an inharmonious relationship to my truth is deadly.

No one is born a warrior, just like no one is born an average man. We make our selves that way by the accumulation of steps we take towards one or the other. I know the power of my mind and I begin every journey confident of victory. I am only defeated when I have accepted defeat, and the moment I turn my back on my self and my vision may be the moment I halt just short of my goal, and I will make useless all my previous efforts. My work is to discover my work and with all my heart give myself to it, and by honoring this path I will achieve the greatest victory of all, a life of love, a life I love, and a life well lived.
Today I choose the path of the warrior.

Make sure to add her blog to your blogroll @ http://patriciamorenothrive.blogspot.com/

She is definitely a revolutionary!

Top 10 Tools & Widgets for Typepad, Blogspot, & Wordpress Bloggers

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 00:18:00 +0000

This post is my little contribution to the new blogosphere community,

Often times I visit blogs for ideas on how to improve my own blog. Here is a list of 10 widget or tools that you might want to get for your blog. Feel free to choose one, two, or all of them for your site. To see how they work just have a look at my site to see for yourself. Let me know if you have any questions about any of these tools. So here they are:

1. Twitter live posts your new tweets on your blog or web page. Here is the link: http://twitter.com/goodies/widget_search

2. Here is another widget that I use on my blog. Since adding I have noticed an increase in the number of minutes visitors stay on my blog. Try Linkwithin out for yourself @ http://www.linkwithin.com/learn

3. Would you like to find out how many people are on your site at any given minute? If so, check out this widget: http://whos.amung.us/

4. This widget allows your readers to leave a quick comment in your chat box http://www.linkedin.com/redirect?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Ecbox%2Ews%2F&urlhash=vlLo . Check it out.

5. Would you like your blog to be a bit more interactive? Well look no more Snapvine is a service that allows for your readers to hear your voice and interact with you by leaving a voice comment. Try it for yourself @ http://www.snapvine.com/

6. Feedjit free widgets - Helps you to answer these questions: Where is the traffic coming from? Where is the traffic going after leaving my site? What are the popular pages on your site? Get Feedjit here: http://feedjit.com/joinjs/

7. Would you like to give readers the option to subscribe to your feed to get updates delivered directly into their inbox? Well you might want to add the Feedburner service @ https://www.google.com/accounts/ServiceLogin?service=feedburner&continue=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedburner.google.com%2Ffb%2Fa%2Fmyfeeds&gsessionid=Zkgvq6chE-24Xe62JMRCuA

8. Want your favorite music or videos to play softly in the background then check out Mixpod @ http://www.mixpod.com/playlist/15009685

9. A quick way to boost traffic back to your site. This button allows you to send your content everywhere. https://www.addthis.com/

10. Want a tool to give you live updates on how many people are on your site, a count of the number of people that visited your page on a daily basis, as well as a clock to let your visitors know what time it is in your city. Get all this at: http://www.geovisite.com/

& Last but not at all least:

11. Gotta have that Donation button for all those blog reader who want to contribute and show some love to you for all your hard work. Get a paypal donation button from http://www.paypal.com.

Leave me a comment and let me know which of these tools you'll be adding to your blog. I hope this post has been helpful to you new 2010 bloggers out there.

http://www.latonyabynum.com/

Happy New Year

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 22:26:00 +0000

Happy New Year,

Hope that this year brings you much success, new opportunities, a renewed spirit, and most of all lots of happiness. The new year always brings a since of renewed inspiration. I hope this year will be one to remember for all of us. 2010 is the year of the Tiger (Chinese new year tradion). The Chinese new year Tiger motto is "I Win". So....keeping with the chinese new year tradition remember that this year we are all WINNERS. Those other guys are the losers:)

May you be blessed with excellent health.

$100 Reach Back Campaign Winners - Stefanie, Jasmine, Melanie, & Ruby

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 17:18:00 +0000

Announcing $100 Reach Back Campaign Winners:

Last month, I started a one time $ 100.00 giveway. The winners have been selected and the $100 has been split among the four bloggers who entered the contest. The only thing that I asked of those who were selected is that they reach back into their childhood home or current city and inspire/help one person to reach one of their goals and strive to reach toward one of their own personal five year goals.

It could just be that they simply will give someone an encouraging word or some simple advice. By accepting the giveaway money they have pledged to complete at least one of their own personal goals in a 5 year time period.

Here is a list of the FOUR well deserving giveaway winners. Each winner has been given $25. Feel free to read the comment section of the giveaway post for details of what they are doing to reach back: HERE

1.) Ruby @ http://thelifeandtimesofafashiondiva.blogspot.com/
2.) Stefanie @ http://curvaceouscuban.blogspot.com/
3.) Jasmine @ http://mob-xxi.blogspot.com/
4.) Melanie @ http://meldenisesays.blogspot.com/

Congratulations ladies & most of all remember this:

All things are possible! If only you believe it; you will be able to achieve it in time. Be unique. -LaTonya Bynum

Stay tuned for my next giveaway campaign.

http://www.latonyabynum.com/

Reflection (2009)

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 02:43:00 +0000

1. What did you do in 2009 that you’d never done before?
Well I traveled to Florida for the first time. Had a road trip with a coworker that lasted over eight hours. & Started paying closer attention to my weight gain.

2. Did you keep your new years’ resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
My new years resolution was to start graduate school this fall. Instead of starting graduate school I choose to enroll in the South Central Public Health Leadership Institute as a fellow. Grad school will be the next step.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?

Yes, most of my cousins are keeping the family tree growing the right direction. Too many to name so I will just leave it at that.

4. Did anyone close to you die?

No - All my loved ones survived 2009.

5. What countries did you visit?

Never been out of the country, but I hope to one day. I would love to travel to Africa and then on to South America. I did go so far as to get me and my husband's birth certificate to get our passport. I might take the next step which will be to fill out that looooooong passport application.

6. What would you like to have in 2010 that you lacked in 2009?

Time for relaxation.

Patience.

Motivation.

7. What date from 2009 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?

December 25th - I cooked chicken dressing for the first time and it was ate up in two days. I followed a recipe my mother gave me over the phone. I am slowly becoming more of a housewife little by little.

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?

Learning to get over trials and tribulations as they come and go.

Signing up as a fellow for the Leadership Institute

Learning more about this blogging

Purchasing a furniture set

Spending more time with my nephews

9. What was your biggest failure?

Not finding me a church home to be apart of.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?

No, but I fell twice on the same knee. I learned two very important lessons:

1) Get back up after you fall

2) Healing is a process...it takes time

11. What was the best thing you bought?

Furniture...tired of sitting almost on the floor

People that know me understand how I spend...I don't unless it is important and a need.

12. Whose behavior merited celebration?

Obama winning the Nobel Peace Prize

The family pastor for holding things down in the midst of the craziness

My husband for having a compassionate heart that sometimes confuses the heck out of me.

13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?

my brother in law...i am over it now

Kanye West....he should have just kept his mouth shut

Tiger Woods....role models are human they make mistakes

14. Where did most of your money go?

Mortgage

15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?

My birthday...turning 28 & celebrating with the family

My wedding anniversary...second year and still learning

Received a spiritual message from Dr. Jamal Bryant and Donnie McClurkin.

16. What smell will always remind you of 2009?

Herbs

17. Compared to this time last year, are you:- i. happier or sadder?

Happier....I have joy in side of me..I was touched on Christmas day.

18. What do you wish you’d done more of?

living everyday to the fullest

volunteered at some of these nonprofits

learned more about e-commerce

found bloggers i like sooner

19. What do you wish you’d done less of?

Worrying about what will happen tomorrow and the next day after that

20. Did you fall in love in 2009?

Fell a bit deeper. Starting to understand this thing called marraige.

Have learned....I get what I put in if not more.

21. How many one-night stands?

Those days are over...hehe

22. What was your favorite TV program?

My converter box caught a lot of episodes of Survivor.

23. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?

I don't hate anyone. Now I dislike a couple of people because of their devious ways though...

24. What was the best book you read?

Dying While Black by Vernellia Randall. I read that book in 6 hours and passed it on to a very important decision maker who will have more of an impact on public health policy in Arkansas.

25. What was your greatest musical discovery?

An artist by the name of Ayo. She has some awesome music. I found a website called Jamati.com where they find new African artists and tell all about them.

26. What did you want and got?

So easy to please....I have everything that I could ever want out of life.

27. What did you want and not get?

Again....I have everything.

28. What were your favorite films of this year?

Love in the Time of Cholera - old movie

29. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?

At home with family - turned 28

30. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?

if more people would have showed love.

31. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2009?

more casual

wore scarfs

comfortable

32. What kept you sane?

meditation

..... num your hor rang gay keo .......

33. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?

Jamie Foxx

34. What political issue stirred you the most?

not being able to come to a solution for Healthcare

35. Whom did you miss?

My granny

36. Who was the best new person(s) you met?

i met so many people this year. some while attending conferences. many just while shopping at the store. Thanksgiving day I met a lot of my extended family. Gotta love that Bobbie Jean.

37. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2009:

Hard work pays off in the long run...No work gets you nowhere.

38. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year:

Hard one..

I don't listen to enough music to know any one song to describe my year.

I need a song that spoke of:

living, trying to figure out this changing world, finding myself,

going natural with my hair, and voicing my opinion

Calling All Creative Bloggers - Enter The Plastic BombChell Contest

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 00:45:00 +0000

Hello.....

Since my $100 Reachback Campaign is ending tonight @ 12. I wanted to let all of you know of another contest that just started today. Not on my blog but a blog called "Bombchell in Atlanta".

This blog's author is so creative....You will see what I am talking about once you visit her site.

When you visit the site the first thing you will notice is her blog banner/twitter update comment box & if you scroll on down she even has a bling Eiffel tower too. She even has a live traffice update wowzio widget. Just in case you didn't know that is awesome because wowzio only hands out 24 of those widgets per day (That is okay I will stick with my Feedjit for now :)

She has it going on over there on her website. I just have one question for her...... Bombchell how did you do that?

Here is what her profile says.....

***

One hot bombchell currently living in Atlanta. currently not working, college grad, partying, watching movies & hanging out. Jealous? dont be!(^_^)
[kisses] ...................... nov 2 2008 edit: starting grad school, an MBA,
yeah i sold out lol

***

Here is a little bit about her contest:

Contest Inspiration: I love love love "fake" girls. If i see a girl with extensions, fake lashes, omg maybe fake boobs, and bleach blonde hair, I'm in love and I want to be best friends forever. I also love the Martha Stewarts, Betty Crockers, and Trophy Wives & Husbands of the world. so this competition is making fun ourselves, stereotypes, barbies, makeup, dressing up and becoming a plastic character. It could be someone that already exists or one in your imagination, just have fun with it.

Participants: It could be just you, or you could do a team effort, the prize goes to whoever sends the entry. This contest is international, I will mail the prize anywhere in the globe or outer space provided there's a mail service.

Prize: the winning prize as decided by the poll (48%) is makeup!!! how fitting:) so you'll get a $40 gift card to M.A.C or Sephora (your preference)guys: dont fret Sephora carries all things including cologne etc

Extra Gifts: 2 LUSH gift boxes will be given to the first entries I receive. one to the first entry with a female, and the 2nd to the first entry featuring a male in it.

You'll have to visit her site to get the contest rules - http://www.bombchell.com/

I am tagging my favorite die hard creative bloggers to enter this contest:

Curvacious Cuban - http://curvaceouscuban.blogspot.com/

I Adore Makeup - http://iadoremakeup.blogspot.com/

MzMidnight - http://mzmidnyte.blogspot.com/

BeautifullyBrown - http://beautifullybrown.blogspot.com/

Blaq Vixen Beauty - http://www.blaqvixenbeauty.com/

Natutally Ambrosia - http://natural-brosia.blogspot.com/

Bree Wee - http://breeweehawaii.blogspot.com/

Of course I definitely want to see pictures from my male bloggers:

E Dot DizZy - http://edotdizzy.blogspot.com/

Baby Daddy Diaries - http://babydaddydiaries.blogspot.com/

Phivos Nicolaides - http://phivosnicolaides.blogspot.com/

Full Figure Plus - http://fullfigureplus.com/

Make sure you guys cc me a copy of your photos if you decide to enter the contest. I know the photos that you'll submite will be creative judging by looking at your blog.

Just in case you all were wondering the answer is a BIG n to the o (NO)... I will not be entering the contest. Or should I?

www.latonyabynum.com

How to Self Publish Online for FREE Using BLOGGER & PAYPAL Accounts

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Tue, 29 Dec 2009 00:43:00 +0000

In a previous post, remember how I mentioned how all of the sudden I am now on Linkedin.com more than I am on Facebook. So get this......while looking through the discussion topics on the Linkedin Black Enterprise Networked group, I noticed an intriguing question which asked

WHAT'S THE BEST WAY FOR ME, A YOUNG AFRICAN AMERICAN POETRY WRITER, TO GET MY FIRST BOOK PUBLISHED. I DONT HAVE ALOT OF MONEY TO SPEND ON THE PROJECT. ANY ADVICE? - Mr. Spears

I was thinking......

Well this is my cue to jump right in and offer my expertise in what can be done to solve this issue. My thought was all he has to do is get him a blog and add a paypal button and call it a day.

So......

I proposed that he invest time in setting up both Blogger.com and a Paypal.com accounts. By setting up these accounts he will be able to link up with other blog readers, spread the word about his poetry, and sell his product online via paypal. I told him that all of this can be done at no cost - FREE. So here are the instructions for Self Publishing Your Material Online for FREE with BLOGGER.COM and PAYPAL.COM accounts.

EASY AS 1 - 2 - 3.

Step 1. Set up your blogger.com account

Video Tutorial: How to create a blog with Blogger.com

Step 2: Set up your PayPal account
Video Tutorial: How to add a Paypal button to your webpage

Step 3: Add the PayPal Button to the Blog
Video Tutorial: Adding Paypal Button to your Blog - Blogger 2.0

See I told you it was easy as 1 - 2 - 3. Any questions?

Below are a couple of Bloggers who are already taking advantage of this new found resource. Check out their websites @

1. Lacresha Hayes - http://alwaysthebridebook.blogspot.com/

2. Katlynn LaSalle - http://mydownlowlife.blogspot.com/

3. ???? - ????

If you have a blog and are using it to sell your e-book, poetry, or book then feel free to leave a comment with a link to where we can find your blog and material. I plan to add yours to the list.

Hope this helps Mr. Spears @ his website.

Wishing You and Yours A Merry Christmas

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Sat, 26 Dec 2009 02:27:00 +0000

Tis' the season,

Wishing all my family, friends, followers, and visitors a very Merry Christmas this Holiday season. My wish is that you were at least able to get a good meal in your stomach. I hope that Santa was able to get you everything you wanted. Many blessings and happy times to all of you while you take this time to visit with loved ones, reflect on the year, and pass on good tiding of joy. Peace and blessing to all of you.

What was the best thing about this Christmas?

For me, I realized that it is not about all the gifts and spending money that I don't necessarily have. It is really about giving to those who are in dire need of love and a kind word. I know God is looking down on me this Christmas season and saying well done my good and faithful servant.

#1 Undiscovered Resource: Getting LinkedIn!

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 03:23:00 +0000

Lately I have noticed I have been on Linkedin.com networking more than I use Facebook.com. I have come to think of Linkedin as my professional facebook spot. Originally I thought Linkedin.com was more of a place where older people go to talk business, but I have to say I was all wrong. It has a lot of potential to become everything I need and am looking for getting my social entrepreneur career moving. The website is full of resourceful people who tend to provide superb information. Anytime I need anything from ideas to resources for my job then I have a place to get immediate access to the best of the best experts. I have to say most of my linkedin network is more than helpful to me, and I hope that I am being just as helpful to them. By the way, recently Linkedin partnered with Twitter.com. Their new partnership means that when I update my status on Linkedin I also have the option to update my twitter page at the same time. This is so perfect!

I have immediate access to professionals, specialized network groups, and a lots of twitters to spread my message all at the same time. I would urge you to check it out for yourself.

Do you have a twitter account?

If you do, feel free to follow me @latonyabynum

If you don't have a Linkedin account, I would suggest that you sign up right now. Feel free to add me to your network after you get your account set up. Best wishes to you on whatever you choose to do next.

For all of my visual learner friends, here is a video of how Linkedin works:

Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IzT3JVUGUzM

What is GIS?

latonyabynum@hotmail.com (LaTonya Bynum) — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 02:08:00 +0000

GIS stands for Geographic Information Systems (GIS). GIS is really a fancy way of saying "a way to visually display data on a map". Before you can display data on a map it first has to have a reference to a zip code, county, state, or country, mailing address, or other geographic reference (etc). Once you have a reference point and a value then you can visually display your data on a map like the one below that Letoya Egwuekwe mapped for her graduate school project. Let me know what you think her graphic display of the Unemployment rates by county. At work, I am learning to map data. Actually, just last year I made my very first state map that showed the Doctor Diagnosed Diabetes estimates by county. I was so happy when it was done. I hope to become as good as Letoya one day. And with the help of my smart coworkers I know I'll get there one day.

URL: LaToya Egwueke

Many thanks to my boss for first forwarding me a link to Latoya's map.

Do you agree that this is an excellent way of showing how the recession is affecting us?

Visit her blog @ http://latoyaegwuekwe.wordpress.com/ to read more about her work and thoughts.