Volume 6, Issue 4 August-September,2014
NETWORKING IS NOT JUST TALK By Jerrold (Jerry) Clifford
I often meet people who have just been laid off. Many had been with their companies for years while some are going through the experience of being “in transition” for the first time. I have found that most have heard that networking is a valuable activity in helping them find new positions. One thing that always surprises me is the lack of knowledge of many new members of the “job seeking club,” concerning networking; what it is and how to get the most value from this activity. While this space is too small to provide a complete primer of networking, there are some basics that even some experienced networkers do not always practice: First, you may be networking as part of your approach to obtaining a position. People new to transition often feel that networking affords the opportunity to let others know that they are seeking employment and is a good way to get job availability leads. Some folks feel that they
should always have a paper copy of their resume with them and that it is important to pass them out like flyers. They feel that the more resumes they hand out the more likely someone is to read it and know of an opportunity; or perhaps a recruiter might get a hold of it and go wild over their resume and offer a position. They don’t know (or forget) that networking is not about them. Rather, it is about the people in their network and what they can do to help others. People want to be around individuals who they know can be relied upon to help them if necessary. A “networking bond” gets created. When people know you are willing to help them, and are even willing to go out of your way to do so, they are usually open to reciprocating and helping you when they can. Second, many people don’t have a clue as to what network events are all about. They feel that showing up is the important part of a meeting. While it is true that you need to be there to take advantage of networking meetings, new (and even some experienced networkers) don’t know that the most effective way to utilize an event is to have a plan. 1. Before going to the event you should know if someone you would like to meet is likely to be there; 2. How many contacts do you want to make; 3. What is your strategy for meeting them, and the types of things you are willing (and have the time and resources) to do? New transition club members learn that a good way to help their job search is to become a skilled networker. As in learning any new skills, becoming skilled takes practice and effort. Besides helping to get a new position, an additional learning incentive is that since networking is about relationship building, the skills developed can be used throughout a person’s career. Of course, developing networking skills is optional. It is essential for new members to learn that there is a term for just going to networking events without developing related skills. It is called - - -
SOCIALIZING. Page 1 of 15
Volume 6, Issue 4 August-September,2014
From the Editor’s desk: “They say that all good things must end some day Autumn leaves must fall.” (“Summer Song” by Chad and Jeremy) Summer is fleeting by and soon the autumn leaves will be covering the ground. Enjoy the rest of the summer! Speaking of vacations, Eric Nilsson and his wife, Sandy, went to Hawaii and Eric was kind enough to share with us their “Hawaiian Vacation of a Lifetime” (pages 9-11). Eric has provided us a very insightful description of the cultural, musical, historical, and gastronomical environment of Hawaii. His website links are very informative and entertaining. I particularly enjoyed the link to the Beach Boys’ Surfing USA website because it brings back memories of my own enjoyable vacation in Hawaii. NETWORKING – What is it all about and how does one do it? From dictionary.com – “Networking is a supportive system of sharing information and services among individuals and groups having a common interest.” To shed more light and different insights on the nature of networking; we are presenting you two very interesting topics: Jerry Clifford’s “Networking Is Not Just Talk” (page 1) gives us some basic “dos and don’ts” of networking. Tish Edwards in her article, “What Smart Volunteers Know – The Volunteer’s Advantage” (page 3) promulgates her strategy on how to network in a genuine and cost effective manner — BY VOLUNTEERING! Denise Hamilton’s Ready Set Go! --- Survival tips about how to react based on the different types of weather condition that you may encounter. (page 12) Other interesting topics: Networking Is Not Just Talk - Page 1 What Smart Volunteers Know: The Volunteer’s Advantage - Page 3 Barbara Daisak’s Tech Tips – page 4 Some Messages from Rod Colon – pages 5-6 Articles from the World Wide Web – Eric Nilsson – Pages 7 -8 The Vacation of a Lifetime – Eric Nilsson- pages 9-11 Ready Set Go! – Denise Hamilton – page 12 Lamplighter Volunteer Contributors – page 13 21stCentury Career & Community Expo – page 14 Lamplighter Staff – page 15 ETP and You to Help Veterans – page 15
Have a wonderful time and enjoy reading! And enjoy the rest of the summer!
Aida A. Rodriguez
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Volume 6, Issue 4 August-September,2014
What Smart Volunteers Know: The Volunteer’s Advantage By: Tish Edwards
(Note: This is part 1 of a 3-part series. Parts 2 and 3 will be featured in our future editions) If you’re someone like me, the concept of “networking” conjures up images of working stiffs who’ve agreed to meet at the local bar with business cards in hand. They sound enviable with their buzzwords, as they discuss the topic-of-the-day. But scratch the surface a bit and you’ll see that hardly anyone there has any real inside track to the movers and shakers you REALLY need to meet. Many of us have forced ourselves to play the Happy Hour Game, even if we don’t drink! Worse still is attempting to attend a networking function, with the dreaded cover charge. “Dreaded,” if you are on unemployment and that $10 fee is not “up there” with food, lights and gas for the car. As a matter of fact, your inner financial planner trait may be tallying the true cost of the cover charge, plus one drink, plus transportation, and all of the Whenever I have needed to cross disciplines, I simply test the waters through skills-based volunteering. I get to experience new things and meet new people, while still keeping my day job. It has been through volunteering that I have been able to have my cake and eat it too. (Having cross-over appeal is critical to those of us in Information Technology. Too often, we find that we are only one certification away from being outdated. Volunteering keeps you updated in two or more market segments.)
CLOSE THE UNEMPLOYMENT TIME GAP: Do you really want to tell an interviewer that all you do is look for work? Then the next candidate, like me, walks in excited and eager to share what I just learned from volunteering as a Technology Trainer to HighSchoolers competing in an annual Hackathon? (True story – This is how I stayed current in at least 4 computer languages during an extended bout of unemployment, while I was switching from Programmer to Professor.)
RECEIVE PROFESSIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS: This has two benefits: First, you may need a new reference, who can attest to the fact that you
other things necessary to help you look not-sodown-on-your-luck. There’s got to be a better way. . . I can’t speak for everybody, but ever since 1998 (and a little before that), I stumbled upon a way to network effectively WITHOUT sacrificing my paycheck, my unemployment check, or my sanity. So how can YOU network in a genuine and cost-effective manner? By VOLUNTEERING! Okay, now, I can almost hear you talking to the computer screen asking, “Work for free? How’s that going to help my situation?” I’m so glad you asked. Here’s what I call The Volunteer’s Advantage. The following is a short list that I have compiled from nearly two decades of dedicated community service.
CONNECTIONS: Whenever I need to contact Executive Directors for a “favor,” I know that I will receive an answer in 1 to 3 business days, be introduced warmly, AND get tapped into their network, ready to do business with people who are ready to do business with me. How sweet is that?
TRY A NEW CAREER: have made the switch from Computer Programmer to IT Professor. Whereas, your previous employer (who is your old reference) never knew you in that capacity. Second, sometimes we do not always leave an employer on the best of terms. Have no fear, you may be able to “pad” one or two of those recommendation slots with managers or directors whom you’ve recently volunteered with. Usually, directors and managers are more than willing to allow you to use them as a professional reference. This is part of the “Give-Get” that comes from regular, inthe-trenches volunteer work. It is not the photo-op volunteering around major holidays. (More on the Give-Get, in the next issue.) So NOW do you still think that volunteering is a waste of your time?
Give it a shot. What do you have to lose? See you soon! Tish Edwards @TishTheTech PS – I look forward to your comments. Email me at: TheAdvantage@TishTheTech.com
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Volume 6, Issue 4 August-September,2014
LinkedIn Publishing Platform: User Review, Tips and Some Wishes for its Next Iteration, Part 1 By Jim Gilbert | Posted on July 09, 2014
LinkedIn's new publishing platform is in the roll-out stage. It gives LinkedIn members the ability to create long-form posts similar to blog posts. Users create posts like they would a status update on the top of their personal page. High-quality posts can receive thousands of views, plus likes, comments and shares on other social platforms, thus amplifying the message exponentially. To see if you have the ability to create long-form posts, check your update box and look for the pencil icon (see the image below). If you have the pencil, you're ready to start publishing. If not, click on the pencil and you can submit a request to post. When I submitted my request in April, I was asked for two writing samples, so make sure to point them to your best content.
Have a social media, tip, or “know-how” article to read and share? Email me at bndaisak@verizon.net! We will publish it in upcoming issues... And many continued Thanks to Eric for continual news to use! Your posts are always welcomed! Check our next issue for another great Tech and Social Media Tip!
Read more>> http://www.retailonlineintegration.com/blog/linkedin -publishing-platform-review
More Employers Rejecting Candidates Because of Social Media
How Many LinkedIn Connections Do You Really Need?
by Erik Sass, Jun 26, 2014, 12:07 PM
It’s no secret that an unflattering social media profile can torpedo your job search and indeed your whole career, and new data from a survey of employers by CareerBuilder confirms that more employers are passing on candidates because of illjudged social media content. CareerBuilder surveyed 2,138 hiring managers and human resource professionals and 3,022 workers, ages 18 and over. Overall, 43% of employers are now using social media to research candidates, up from 39% in 2013 and 36% in 2012. Among employers that use social media to research candidates, 51% said they have found content that caused them to reject a candidate, up from 43% in 2013 and 34% in 2012. Crunching the numbers, that means 22% of all employers have rejected candidates based on social media, up from 17% in 2013 and 12% in 2012. There's more>> http://www.mediapost.com/publications/article/22 8881/more-employers-rejecting-candidatesbecause-of-soc.html
by Joshua Waldman
Back in the day, when LinkedIn’s colors where baby blue, you could see the number of third-degree connections you had in an analytics report. When I had 880 first- degree connections, I also had 11.5 million third-degree connections. Now that I have thousands of first-degree connections and LinkedIn’s user base has more than tripled, I can only guess that my third-degree list would now be in the high tens of millions. That’s tens of millions of people available for me to contact and network with. Tens of millions of people willing and able to guide me, refer me, buy from me, talk to me, etc. These numbers aren’t something to take lightly. There’s an old adage in the world of professional networking, “It’s not your connections that matter, it’s your connections’ connections.” There's more here>> http://www.careerattraction.com/many-linkedinconnections-really-need/
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Does LinkedIn Really Matter for Your Job Search? Yes, Yes It Does. by Lynne Sarikas
I’m often asked by job seekers if it’s really worth their time and effort to use LinkedIn in their job search. Bottom line: use it only if you are serious about finding your next job! (You are seriously about that, aren’t you?) Here’s why LinkedIn so important in your job search: Read on>>http://www.careerattraction.com/linkedinreally-matter-job-search-yes-yes/
Network Your Way Into an Unadvertised Job By Rod Colón
Volume 6, Issue 4 August-September,2014
ic questions: 1. Who does what you do? 2. Who hires people who do what you do? Once you’ve mastered this “precision targeting” technique, the flow of your conversation will be along these lines: “Where do you see the industry heading? What’s going on? What’s hot? What’s not? What groups should I belong to? This is what I’m hearing; what are you hearing?” Finally, when you judge it to be the correct time to do some asking, you must do it as an assertive CEO, not a timid wallflower. It must be a direct request for a specific action to achieve a targeted goal. Remember that you’ve earned the right to ask because of your excellent reciprocity track record. Not only that, most business owners appreciate direct, straightforward requests. HOW TO SURVEY THE HIDDEN JOB MARKET as the CEO of ME, INC. 1. Log in to your LinkedIn account. 2. Use LinkedIn’s advanced search feature to locate five companies or businesses that are safely considered to be in your “domain of preference” (or “space”), i.e., the industry – and even the niche within that industry – for which you see yourself a part. 3. Now using the People filter, locate friends or associates who work at those companies or businesses. Your goal should be to identify individuals to whom you have a LinkedIn connection (Level 1 and 2). 4. Once you’ve established the identity of your LinkedIn connection (working at a company that either specializes in or clearly includes the type of work you do), set up time for a phone call. Prepare to gather business intelligence from the conversation and use these questions as guidelines: “I’ve been hearing that the “ABC” software application is really taking off in the XYZ industry. What are you hearing?” (document both question and response) “What kind of trends do you see with [your identified career niche] within the “XYZ” industry?” (document …) “Who would be a good source of information so that I can learn more about the … … project or the … … business or the … … industry?” (document …)
You’ve built a network of trusted relationships. But why bother to network if you never plan to leverage it? It’s now time to do some asking because you’ve earned the right to do so. You’ve followed the rules and observed the connection protocols. It’s time to tap your network’s connection horsepower to help you find a position. In order to set you up with the proper mind-set for exploring the Hidden Job Market, you need to keep the following principle in mind. While investigating the Hidden Job Market, your primary function will be networking, not selling, and your aim is to gather intelligence from those individuals in your core skills “space”. Your job is to connect with individuals who can truly help you because they’re in the same industry, not going on some fishing expedition inside industries that have no relevance to yours. To put it in slightly different terms, it’s not going to do you any good to tap into a pipeline of business intelligence for the pharmaceutical industry if you’re seeking a position in the financial services industry. You need to refine the “filtering” of your contacts to make sure you’re picking up intelligence for the industry — and, if possible, even the precise niche — in which you want to work. Your ultimate goal is to answer two very specifPage 5 of 15
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Volume 6, Issue 4 August-September,2014
Exchange Business Cards Effectively By Rod Colón
A reminder that you received an invitation from me in the past few weeks to join our group “Own Your Career with Rod Colon” on LinkedIn. The purpose of this group is to assist my LinkedIn level 1 connections to develop the skills in order to become the best CEO of Me, Inc. through shared discussions and best practices. Check you LinkedIn mail box for your invitation. Enjoy! Anne Baber and Lynne Waymon have an excellent way of describing the business card exchange process. Below is an excerpt from their book, Make Your Contacts Count. Handing a business card to someone does not constitute a networking relationship. Strangely enough, the biggest mistake people make with business cards is giving them out too freely, too soon. When that happens, your contact will go back to the office, look at the card, say to himself, “I wonder who this is?” and throw the card in the wastebasket.
Challenge yourself not to give your card out until you’ve found some connection, some reason for exchanging names and phone numbers. Approach conversations asking yourself, “I wonder what she needs that I can provide? Let’s see if I can figure it out,” and “I know what I’m looking for today. Wonder if I can find someone who has the information I need?” You have to work to make a conversation lead to the exchange of cards. When you hit upon a reason to exchange cards, you have accomplished
something very important. You have extended the relationship beyond the event at which you met. When you find a conversational connection and need to exchange cards, take a moment right then and there or as soon as you leave the event to note on the back of the card anything you want to remember about the person, the conversation or what you agreed to do.
Thank-You Message (Post-Interview Follow-up) By Rod Colón
Touching base with the prospective employer after the interview, either by phone or in writing, shows that you really want the job and are determined to get it. This also gives you another chance to demonstrate your communication skills and sense of business decorum. Following up brings your name to the interviewer’s attention once again and reminds them that you’re actively looking and waiting for the decision. Express your thanks within two days after the interview, even if you feel you have little chance for the job. Not only is this good etiquette, but it leaves a positive impression. Acknowledge the interviewer’s time and courtesy, and convey your continued interest, then ask politely for a decision. Keep your thank-you message brief (less than five minutes for a phone call or only a one page equivalent for an e-mail), and organized it like a routine message. Demonstrate the “you” attitude, and sound positive without sounding overconfident. Even if the interviewer has said that you are unqualified for the job, a thank-you message may keep the door open to future opportunities. Four points to a Thank-You Message: 1. Remind the interviewer of the reasons for meeting and graciously acknowledge their consideration shown to you 2. Indicate your flexibility and commitment to the job if hired 3. Remind the interviewer of your special qualifications for the position 4. Close on a confident oriented manner with a request for next steps and/or a decision
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Volume 6, Issue 4 August-September,2014
Zero to Hired in 30 Days with Guerrilla Networking
Job Interview 'Etiquette' is KEY to Getting Hired
By Kevin Donlin
If you’re in the job market today, you know that the shortest route to employment is often … non-existent. You email your resume in response to a job posting. Then wait. Email to follow up. Wait. Get a phone interview. Wait to hear back from the employer, etc. What a long, strange trip it can be -- if you do what everyone else is doing. But what if you blaze your own trail and make your own rules? That’s what “guerrillas” do to find a job. To illustrate, I talked to Curt Bolan, a career and employment consultant from CanadaSaskatchewan Career and Employment Services. Bolan shared the story of one man who found a great job about 30 days after taking an unconventional, “guerrilla” approach. This Guerrilla Job Hunter, whom we’ll call Mark to protect his identity, did something completely unexpected, using LinkedIn … Read more: http://www.nettemps.com/careerdev/crossroads/index.htm?op=vi ew&id=4516#axzz389rOtBhb
Action Is Essential To Career Success Are you working on your career goals regularly or just thinking about them? Are you moving forward a little bit every day or waiting for the right time to begin? Goals don't get realized on their own. They get completed and achieved when you are working on them. Work on your goals and you will reach them. Work on something else and your goals will take a back seat. Read more: http://www.net-
temps.com/careerdev/crossroads/index.htm?op=view& id=5499#ixzz377U7EYGX
Paulette remembers her mother often reviewing the importance of good manners at the dinner table. "'Use your napkin, chew quietly, listen when another is speaking and say thank you to the cook (Mom or my older sister Beth) before leaving the table.'" Paulette smiled as she recalled the 'rules.' "I didn't appreciate it much till I lived on my own and took my first job. "Manners are not only important at the dinner table," she added, "but also during a job interview. I've been on both sides of the desk and I know how annoying it is when a job candidate jingles pocket change, chews gum—even quietly, and stares over the employer's shoulder." Read more: http://www.nettemps.com/careerdev/crossroads/index.htm?op=view&id=54 84#axzz377TSktJt
3 Ways to Make Each Job Application Special No two hiring managers should receive the same résumé and cover letter from you. “Hey gorgeous :) what’s up?” Little could "Joshua," a Tinder dating app user, imagine how sorry he would be when he sent this text message. He got this response: “Not much but I can’t speak for the 31 other girls attached in this group message.” Crash and burn! Joshua was either unaware or unfazed he sent this greeting to 32 women at once, and the group flogging that ensued was captured and went viral. Joshua’s chance for a lucky night would have been immeasurably better had he pursued those women one at a time and made each feel special somehow. See the full article here>> http://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/outside-voicescareers/2014/06/17/3-ways-to-make-each-job-applicationspecial
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Volume 6, Issue 4 August-September,2014
Didn’t Get the Job? Here’s How to Move Forward
- See more at: http://www.baselinemag.com/careers/slideshows/dontmake-these-mistakes-on-your-job-application.html
by Lisa Rangel
The reality of the job hunt is that high-caliber positions are few and far between. Add the fact that there’s also a pool of fierce competition, and sometimes this means you won’t get the job you’re looking for right away. This is the part where it’s easy to give up or let emotions take over. Rather than throwing in the towel, use this guide to help you get back on the saddle. Read more>> http://www.careerattraction.com/didntget-job-heres-move-forward/
Slideshow: Don't Make These Mistakes on Your Job Application By Dennis McCafferty
As a technology professional, you may not consider writing one of your core strengths. However, you still need to communicate effectively on both paper documents and emails, especially when you're applying for a job. That said, hiring managers are seeing far too many mistakes made in résumés and job applications, according to a recent survey from Accountemps. The margin for error here is small: Findings show that 46 percent of senior managers say it takes only two mistakes in a résumé—such as misspellings or typos—to eliminate a candidate for job consideration. That's up from 36 percent in 2009. They're cutting more slack, however, when it comes to a single mistake, with only 17 percent of these managers saying one error is a deal killer—down from 40 percent in 2009. "The quick and casual nature of communication today shouldn't extend to the job application process," advises Max Messmer, chairman of Accountemps and author of Job Hunting For Dummies (John Wiley & Sons, available now). "Attention to detail is required for most jobs, and a résumé should showcase this skill, not detract from it." To add both a warning and a bit of levity to this topic, Accountemps provided the following list of reallife blunders on résumés and job applications. More than 300 U.S. senior managers took part in the research.
How to Follow Up With Networking Contacts (Without Being Annoying) by Michelle Tillis Lederman
You just made a great connection at a networking event. You feel that “burden to meet someone” lift from your shoulders and decide to relax with a drink at the bar. On your way over, you realize: I have no reason to contact this person again. How am I going to follow up? Don’t panic. You can still save the connection and build a solid relationship with a series of “light touches.” This helps you to stay in someone’s mind without (literally) being in their face. (Click here to tweet this thought.) Here are a few touch points to try: Read more>>http://www.careerattraction.com/follownetworking-contacts-without-annoying/
Answers to the six most common questions about resumes by Beecher Tuttle 26 June 2014
Recent Comment Employers seeking employees are advertising but they get a flood of Resumes, which they just can't handle. Perhaps, they find a short cut by looking at resumes coming from their Net Working ... Posted by ATUL PRAKASH While there are no strict rules when it comes to building a resume, there are several guidelines that you should always follow. The problem is that these guidelines change with the times. Should you include an objective? What about the one-page rule? We reached out to former recruiter and certified professional resume writer Lisa Rangel for a refresher course on the most commonly asked questions about resumes, as judged by Google searches. Her responses are below. Read more>>http://news.efinancialcareers.com/usen/176414/answers-six-common-questions-resumes/
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Volume 6, Issue 4 August-September,2014
The vacation of a lifetime By Eric Nilsson
When Sandy (my wife) and I arrived in Honolulu to finalize the vacation of a lifetime, Sandy and I were having a "discussion" about how to pronounce the name of our 50th state. I repeated that the name was pronounced, "Hah-wah-ee." She kept stating the name was pronounced, "Hav-ah-ee." In exasperation I asked an obvious Hawaiian how to pronounce the name of his state. "Hav-ah-ee," he replied. As Sandy turned to me with a big grin, she said, "Thank you very much." The stranger replied, "You are velcome." Having resided in either New York or central New Jersey for most of my life I must admit that seeing Hawaii is breathtaking. Unlike New York, foliage is everywhere, not in parks or between the sidewalk and the street. Like New York City, though, Honolulu has tall buildings and a good deal of traffic, both motorized and on foot. Bringing the similarities even closer together, pigeons abound, as fearless as their Manhattan relatives. Going from the airport to the hotel was not unlike going from JFK or Newark International to the Ritz-Carlton; it was a long ride; but at least my wife and I were able to see the various styles of homes and the flora of Honolulu. I was surprised to see that there may be more pine trees in Hawaii as there are in Stokes State Forest in New Jersey; and Honolulu is only on one of the state's islands (Oahu)!
When we got settled in on the 22nd floor, we could see what the Beach Boys sang of (actually, Waikiki, not Waimea Bay [at the north of Oahu]). Dozens of surfers were in the Pacific, just off Wai-
kiki Beach (a few blocks from our hotel). We had a big day ahead (I was still on New York time), so we both went to sleep early. Pearl Harbor (Memorials) As everyone knows, Pearl Harbor is the site of the first attack on American territory since the War of 1812. That attack destroyed most of the American Navy in the Pacific at that time. It was also a call to war (what would become a two-front war) and a rallying cry for Americans to band together to vanquish an enemy.
We took a bus tour to Pearl Harbor. The bus stops at an area where its passengers transfer to a tender, a small boat used to move cargo (in this case, the passengers) from one area to a ship. The ship to which we were transferred was BB-39, the USS Arizona. Nothing visible remains of the Arizona except a few rusted smokestacks and the ship's superstructure. From a distance, one can see the memorial to BB-36, the USS Nevada.
Disembarking onto the dock, we go through various rooms showing the events as they occurred on December 7, 1941. These are captured by old Page 9 of 15
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Speed-Graphics (the newspaper standard camera of the day). Moving on, we see the wall of the fallen, sailors, marines and soldiers killed in the attack. There are large openings in the memorial to allow visitors to see even more damage and destruction done, not only to the Arizona and Nevada, but the AR 4, the USS Vestal (a repair ship moored alongside the Arizona) and BB-31, the USS Utah. We returned by the tender from the Arizona Memorial to the dock and the shops it contained. There is a large slab showing where Hawaii is relative to San Francisco and Los Angeles on the mainland; and Japan. As we prepared to get back on the bus, we saw the SS-297, the USS Bowfin which, while not commissioned exactly one year from the attack on Pearl Harbor, is a memorial to the Navy's submarines and sailors sunk during the war in the Pacific. Pearl Harbor (USS Missouri) Once again we were on a bus, this time to see where World War II ended. No, it didn't end in Pearl Harbor, but it is fitting that BB-63, the USS Missouri, the ship on which the surrender documents were signed, is anchored there (a few miles away). As the bus pulled up to the Missouri, tourists were flowing from the ship and to the ship, past the statue of Chester Nimitz, the commanding admiral of all naval forces in the Pacific. His flag still flies atop the conn. Along the way toward the ship, we
looked at some of the armaments (artillery shells and pom-pom [anti-aircraft] guns, themselves fitted for armor-piercing shells). We took the elevator (I wasn't capable of climbing the stairs that day) to the port side main deck — actually, just forward of midships. Many ports were blocked off, I guess because people were preparing for a celebration for the Fourth of July; and we arrived a few days ahead of time (boo!). If you've ever seen an artillery piece (Bound Brook, New Jersey has a 75mm Howitzer), you would be amazed at what a battleship's guns look like. The barrels are about 60 feet long. The guns themselves fire 16-inch shells, about twice the size of the largest land artillery piece used at that time. When fired, the recoil from these guns caused the Missouri (and all battleships) to heel to the opposite side. But, even the awe derived from the big guns is small compared to the three sheets of paper under glass near the midships on the starboard side. These documents are reproductions of the actu-
al surrender documents signed aboard the Missouri on September 2, 1945. This, in itself, is almost as sobering as the ride to the Arizona Memorial. Since Pearl Harbor is an active Naval base, there is only so much to see (although there are schools for the base's children and homes and apartments for the military personnel). With a fond "Aloha" to the USS Missouri, we headed back to the hotel. Lava is not just soap There are eight major islands of Hawaii: Hawai'i, Maui, Oahu, Kahoolawe, Lanai, Molokai, Kauai and Niihau. And they are all formed from lava. While all the islands were, at one time, volcaPage 10 of 15
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noes, the only active volcanoes are on the Big Island of Hawai'i.
When we went to the volcanoes, it was overcast, changing to fairly heavy rain by the time we arrived at the park sheltering the volcanoes. Steam rose from various wide holes. As our helicopter moved closer, we could see the molten lava -- the source of the steam. Surrounding the volcanoes are some houses and trees, but the area is basically abandoned to volcanoes. The lava flows to the sea (it is an island, you know), unimpeded by anything created by humans. There are trees, but wood burns at a lower temperature than the temperature given off by molten lava. For you Scrabble players stuck with five letter "A" tiles at the end of the game, or for those stuck with a "P" two "H" tiles and a few vowels, knowing the lava flow types can come in handy. Aa (also spelled 'a'a and pronounced "ah-ah") is ropey lava; pahoehoe (pronounced "pa-hoy-hoy") is smooth. And so, with the rain in our faces (actually, the copter's windscreen) and the heat at our backs, we leave the Big Island for our next adventure.
There's more to a coconut than you think One of the interesting demonstrations on the trip is how to open a coconut. The coconut you buy in the store has the husk removed (the coconut has three layers). What's the big deal, then? The three layers of the coconut all have their uses. The outer part, the husk, is removed and it later acts as a Brillo pad. Now we see what the store sells, complete with the three dots ("eyes") at
one end. Those eyes are the weakest point of the coconut, so stay tuned. To break open the coconut and get almost every source of nutrition from it, the end with the dots is driven onto a stake; this allows the water to leak out. The coconut is then held like a football and, used a rock or a hammer, is cracked along the midmiddle. So far, so good. Remember the husk? It's time to use it. To do so, tear it up so that it is like a cloth (with a lot of fibers sticking out). Take the cloth and scour each half of the coconut you just split. Wring the husk cloth into a pan to catch the coconut milk and the coconut meat. After a few minutes, you have two empty shells and a pan (or bowl) or coconut meat and milk. Clean up and enjoy. The Last Palace Since winning the Revolutionary War, America has been a Democratic Republic (capitalized). But there actually was a dynasty within this Republic: Queen Lydia Liluokalani was royalty when Hawaii became an American territory (she died a year before World War I ended). Queen Liluokalani's palace stands across the street from the statue of King Kamehameha and the state offices. Of course, everyone who watches TV knows what's behind the statue of the King: Five-Oh! Actually, Hawaii 5-0 exists only on the small screen (and the script-writers' minds).
Leavin' on a jet plane The vacation ended with a long (over 6 time zones) flight back to Georgia and North Carolina. That's a story for a future issue.
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Volume 6, Issue 4 August-September,2014
Ready Set Go! By Denise Hamilton
Usually you hear the words - - - Ready, Set, Go - - - when a race is involved. As you enjoy the summer weather, take time to slow down and don’t forget that this is hurricane season. Do you reside in an evacuation zone? Have you checked to see if the place you will be staying for vacation is in an evacuation zone? This information can be easily determined by checking the local government website or Office of Emergency Management (OEM) website.
It has been determined that preparation and practice can make the difference in surviving an event. So, make it part of your summer to have a goal to develop an evacuation plan. The month of September has usually been declared National Preparedness month due to the fact that this is the month when the number of hurricanes peak. Hurricane season is not officially over until the end of November. After you have developed a plan and a GO bag you can truly relax and enjoy your summer knowing that you are prepared for any type of event that may occur during the season. You now have a new connotation for the words - - Ready, Set, Go. Have a great and enjoyable summer!
Even if you aren’t in an evacuation zone you still need to have a plan. For the last couple of years we have seen extreme weather changes in the blink of an eye. Have you thought about how to react based on the different types of weather condition that you may encounter? If the answer to any of these questions is NO, then you need to take some time to develop a plan and become prepared. For assistance in developing a plan and becoming prepared, I would recommend checking out the website, www.ready.gov. This website contains useful information and is easy to understand and follow.
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Volume 6, Issue 4 August-September,2014
Lamplighter Volunteer Contributors Jerry Clifford is a Project and Program Manager experienced with all aspects of software project development. As both employee and consultant he worked with some of the nation’s premier companies including AT&T, Cisco Systems, and Merck. He holds a graduate degree in mathematics, earned certifications in project management and information systems auditing (CISA) and was elected to two terms as President of the EDP Auditors Association, New Jersey Chapter. He is the published author of several technical and non-technical books on topics ranging from computer math to car repair and carpentry. Rod Colón — ETP Founder Master Networker, Professional Development, Executive Coach, Speaker, Author Weekly Co-Host of Radio Show "YOUR CAREER IS CALLING" Rod Colón Consulting, LLC 732-367-5580 www.rodcolon.com Rod is the author of the book Win the Race for 21st Century Jobs
Tish Edwards has been active in the non-profit Information Technology arena for nearly 2 decades. After realizing that the non-profit sector has the same needs for qualified technology professionals, Tish soon discovered that community service opportunities are a great way to help people, while developing new technology skills. Often times, non-profit settings presented opportunities which were unavailable in a more formal, corporate structure. Through pairing community service commitments with her corporate day job, she was able to establish a diverse career very early, which included: Hardware, Networking, Programming, Performance and Data Analysis, Project Management, and Training. Tish holds a Master of Science degree, in Telecommunications and Information Management. Denise Hamilton was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. She graduated from Pace University with a degree in Management Information Science. Denise has an extensive career in the Information Technology (IT) profession where she has worked in the insurance, banking, financial services, transportation, and government industries. Denise is certified in business continuity and currently works at Columbia University.
Carl E. Reid, CSI — Executive Director www.carlereid.com Chief Operations Officer| Running the Business of "ME" Tel: 201-222-5390 Empowering Today's Professionals - www.ETPNetwork.org Carl is Foreword Author in book Win the Race for 21st Century Jobs
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Volume 6, Issue 4 August-September,2014
Event produced by strategic partners iPower Global Solutions and Empowering Today's Professionals “The 21st Century Career and Community Expo will take a good idea straight from the faith-based legislative summit that I was proud to convene to empower more New Yorkers . . ." -NY Senator Kirsten R. Gillibrand
Please Share Seven Reasons to Attend with your Network Thursday, October 23, 2014 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM Dr. C.M. Long Family Life Center - 71 Lincoln Ave -New Rochelle, NY 10801 1. Educational opportunities. No matter how experienced you are, everyone can learn. Our workshops can expose you to new people, new business and new creative ways to of thinking for your Future Success. 2. Networking. Generate leads for strategic alliances and most importantly, potential customers. Collect business cards, refer to the directory and use all other outlets provided to you during the Expo. Encounter new clients, vendors and suppliers. Click here to start networking now by downloading21st Century Expo mobile app. 3. Position yourself as an expert. When you are active in your industry, you can develop a reputation as an expert to your peers and your clients. Clients feel good about doing business with those that are celebrated by their peers. 4. Boost Your Career. Attending this expo is THE starting place to prepare students and career professionals for a 21st Century future that is happening Right Now! It is your golden opportunity to cultivate relationships with hiring agencies superstars – you will arrive at the Expo seeking a job, but leave with a refreshed outlook and a vibrant career opportunity. What could be more motivating than that? 5. High Quality Speakers. Speakers will provide valuable, practical, tips on topics ranging from networking strategy, social media marketing, using your passion for professional success, cutting edge marketing techniques ,“Careers to Save the Human Race” -21st Century Careers, Space Travel, Health & Wellness, Branding and more. Attendees will leave with a renewed sense of focus, purpose and direction. 6. 7. Free Registration For Attendees. Meet with business owners, and professionals who are motivated to do business with you. Connect with vendors that provide unique products & services. Network with our sponsors who contribute to the development of our communities. Phyllis M. Shelton Public Relations & Global Event Producer iPower Global Solutions "inspiration ... imagination ... innovation" Do you need a sponsor or fund raiser ideas for your event? iPowerGS.com Do want a creative way to say Thank You to Clients, Staff and Family? iPowerIncentive.com Connect with Phyllis:
Twitter |
Speakers -n- Sponsors |
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Lamplighter Staff
Volume 6, Issue 4 August-September,2014
Adelaida (Aida) Rodriguez is the Editor-in-Chief and Contributing Writer of the Lamplighter Newsletter. She is a Project Manager Professional (PMP), Business Analyst/ Consultant at the Warranty Recovery Specialist, LLC adelaida.rodriguez1@verizon.net 732-404-0255 Eric Nilsson is the Compositor and Contributing Writer for Lamplighter. Eric enjoys the art and science of newspaper layout. He has been an IT consultant at the Professional Service Group of New Brunswick and previously worked for North Jersey Media Group (Bergen Evening Record) as a Project Manager and Programmer/Analyst. Interests include economics, history, and journalism. Email: ericnilsson@earthlink.net; LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/ericsnilsson Barbara Daisak is the Lamplighter Contributing Writer & Proofreader. In addition, she is a Learning, Training, & Development Specialist and Microsoft Certified Master Instructor. Barb is also an Instructor Adjunct with the County Colleges of New Jersey with specialties in the Technology Training Divisions and Corporate Training Programs. Phone Numbers:732.863.4948 ― 732.616.2397-mobile Email Barbara at: bndaisak@verizon.net
ETP and You To Help Veterans Please share this with your network. We are also looking for other volunteers and partner organizations to help with this initiative to get more military veterans employed. Non-profit, Empowering Today's Professionals (ETP) is on a mission to help as many military veterans as possible land jobs in the next 90 days. SIGN UP is free at www.ETPnetwork.org - Since 2004 proven job search training, career management education programs and our book "Win the Race for 21st Century Jobs" by ETP founder Rod Colon, ETP has inspired thousands to safely land jobs. As Chief Operations Officer [pro-bono] at Empowering Today's Professionals, I remember what it was like transitioning out of the United States Marine Corps and being on unemployment. I felt embarrassed, I had low self esteem and it hurt that my military service did not seem to matter much to non-military citizens. I would not wish those feelings on anyone. Leveraging my experience, I'm spearheading this initiative for those who served in the military as an ETP priority. With a global support network, Empowering Today's Professionals is doing it's part to get America back to work. In your SIGN UP application Please type "VETERAN" and credit the person who sent you this email as the referrer. I'll be on the look out for your application to connect with you and provide a personal job search /career game plan. We are also looking for other volunteers and partner organizations to help with this initiative to get more military veterans employed.
SIGNUP free at www.ETPnetwork.org - Empowering Today's Professionals Carl E, E Reid, CSI (USMC 1979/1980) Chief Operations Officer Empowering Today's Professionals (ETP)
Tel: 201-222-5390 Web: http://www.etpnetwork.org/ Carl is the author of the book: Win the Race for 21st Century Jobs
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