Coke Summer

As the weekend draws closer, the one thing on my mind is MOBILEcokesummerurl, a fantastic summer promotion that places emphasis on my favorite brand Coke!

Real Registries: Tammy & Dan-1

Real Registries: Tammy & Dan-1

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More going green tips from iVillage!

Learn some new Go Green Tips from iVillage.

My Brightest Diamond

It's been a while since my last post. Feeling much more creative lately, thanks to some very inspirational music that's crossed my path recently. The furnace is burning strong with desire, to create and give form to my thoughts. I'm a glass maker.... For those who still read and discover this page today's recommendation - My Brightest Diamond... the album "A Thousand Shark's Teeth". Simply amazing. Classically trained vocalist & instrumentalist Shara Worden weaves a tapestry filled with range of emotions. Check the video below for a flawless live performance -

Google's War on Link Terror

A response to the article - A look into the purpose of Google’s “PageRank update” – SEW - (search engine watch)

It should come as no surprise inbound links have a direct influence on keyword rankings. By definition, PageRank is a link analysis algorithm that assigns numerical weighting to each element of a hyperlinked set of documents, with the purpose of measuring its relative importance within the set. In its simplest terms, a link from site A to site B is considered a vote, the more votes a site/page receives, the greater its value. Keep in mind the hypertext used as a link also contributes value and could be described as the ‘candidate’ for whom you are voting for.

• For example: if site A has a link to site B and the hypertext used is “great gift ideas”, site A is voting for site B with the hope that site B will rank higher for the term “great gift ideas”.

PageRank is at the core of Google’s natural search algorithm and is the reason why Google became the market leader it is today – by providing unbiased, yet highly relevant search results based on an algorithmic principle to define relevancy without human intervention.

So When Did It All go Wrong?

Shortly after Lawrence (or Larry) Page’s US patent titled “A Method for Node Ranking in a Linked Database” was granted & published in 2001, SEO experts, both white and black hatters began dissecting and ultimately exploiting the mathematic equation that is PageRank. Witness the birth of reciprocal linking, link farms and eventually paid linking or the act of paying for an outbound link using the keyword of choice.

As more and more webmasters became aware of the power of linking, the number of sites offering paid links continued to multiply. Companies like Text Link Ads and Text link Brokers sought to organize linking opportunities by aggregating potential link partners (publishers) into a database to allow advertisers to select placements based on topical relevance. All was right, all were happy, all but Google.

In an effort to combat paid linking efforts Google launched their ‘tell on someone’ campaign by allowing webmaster or general Google users to submit a paid link report. With this information Google would then manual remove ‘link juice’ being passed from site to site.

Did It Work? What Came Next?

As you can imagine, no one flinched at the paid link snitch report offered by Google’s web quality team and the use of paid linking continued to increase year over year. Enter October 26^th, 2007, Google releases a PageRank update that is specifically aimed at lowering the PR value of sites accused of selling links. Small, medium and larger publishers were disciplined including washingtonpost.com, engadget.com & forbes.com. On average, sites were punished with a 2-3 point decrease in PageRank. In addition, many sites may have indirectly noticed a slight decline in PageRank due to a cascading effect – for instance site A may have had 2 links from site B which benefited from several paid links from sites X & Z (which coincidently received a PR decrease for selling paid links). The fear continues to spread.

What Does this All Mean?

First off, I am happy to report there have been no drastic declines in traffic or rankings for sites that participated in paid linking either directly or indirectly since Google’s recent attempt to thwart paid linking. Surprisingly, Google did not restrict the value of the inbound link they simply lowered the PageRank value which by today’s SEO standards, is considered overrated and outdated. Fear tactic?

Well consider the fact that many link brokers are now struggling to maintain inventory due to a mass exodus of publishers who have decided to do away with offering paid links; it appears Google’s constituents have gotten the message.

On the other hand, some brokers are reporting an increase in link demand since many of the suppliers have abandoned their advertisers, contributing to a rising cost for paid links.

It is my opinion paid linking will continue to flourish; the cat is out of the bag and has been since 2001. So long as the intent of purchasing links is in the interest of driving more qualified users to your site how can an advertisement be considered evil? How does a paid link placement differ from a banner ad, a TV commercial or to some extent a press release?

If Google really wanted to eliminate paid links they would have removed the ‘link juice’ value and not simply lower PageRank. More importantly, if Paid linking is considered a violation of Google’s guidelines – why are text link brokers still able to purchase keywords such as “paid links” via Adwords? (Avg. CPC for the term ‘paid links’ is $1.47 - $1.98)

Who is Rachael Ray?

I'm not a big fan, nor do I really understand what makes Rachael a star...is it the food, maybe the eyes - I don't know. However what i do know is that Rachael is extremely popular, so popular that I was forced to purchase a knife set for the one I love. I'll be honest, it took me a while to figure it out - who Rachael ray was of course.

Now I visited several websites, however there was on that stood out. It's has a fairly simple, straight-forward design. The products were clearly displayed and the shipping was fast and accurate. I'm not one for advocating commerce (the buying and selling of things we don't really need) however Rachael Ray Knife Store - you won me over.

Now I picked up the 3 Piece Füri Pro Bamboo Set for my special person. I suggest you take a look at what they have to offer, who knows - you may find a great holiday gift!
...Chao

Race & Parenting - A Mothers Mixed Emotions

It's been a while since my last post. Anyways... I was checking my myspace message board where a friend from London posted a very interesting article about race relations in the UK about a new mother struggling to deal with raising a mixed child. A very honest perspective about the changing landscape of future generations. Please read...

Distance is the measure of dying stars...

14 years ago, I traded a high school diploma in exchange for higher learning and countless roommates; Can't say I enjoyed every moment courting the rising phoenix from the ashes. I was merely dangling from a string. Swaying from right to left caught in pendulum's swing. Accumulating a wealth of lessons learned, paid for with currency we spend but will never earn.

Once separated by a thousand and nineteen miles of paved highways and old photographs, now, I'm only seconds aways from family. Times are better, no more long distance telephone tag, your-turn-to-ring-me back.

Distance is the measure of dying stars...

I digress...thoughts shift. I can't prevent myself from reminiscing, stirring a cold pot pouring salt over an open wound. Vividly recalling that unforeseen moment I lost my daughter - 4 months old; I never heard the words daddy.

Dressed in black, my family and friends. Many with teary eyes gazing up towards our father searching for comforting words. I could only hear the sounds of rain drops, collectively knocking on the stain glass windows signaling darkness wants in.

The sun was invited but struggled to navigate, forcefully contained by the rain. But when I needed it most she called my name.

Only my heart could hear when she whispered - I love you. I was swoon in her cocoon. Touched by her spirit and left physically shaken, my unspoken, uncontrolled emotions took advantage of her presence. I tried but could not hide her absence as my feelings escaped riding on the waves of my tears.

As if to say goodbye, I cried - A currency we spend but will never earn.

Distance is the measure of dying stars, and our tethered relationships.
Never be afraid to say what's in your heart.

Questions for Weary Travelers

Why are we here? What end goal are we striving towards? What's our purpose?

I'm confident we all spend time considering these questions, at some point or another. Regardless if we never find the answers, we all seek reasons for the world around us. I know I do, constantly.

Don't get the wrong impression, I don't spend every waking moment contemplating life's greater mysteries, I'm too busy keeping pace. You know, that infinitely long stretch of unpaved roads pointing towards the horizon we individually and collectively sprint towards. Our arms raised high in excitement, hoping to meet perfection, signaling our journeys completion. We all strive towards perfection, some by choice while others fall victim to indecision.

Amidst the scramble on paved concrete jungles, some will make time for solitude, moments used to remove the veil of creature comforts and disconnect from the net, only to find myself within myself, with a strong appetite for conversation. Quietly we engage...discussing activities, meetings and thoughts from the day, identifying indecision, procrastination, and self-doubt.

After assessing each situation, desire informs the spirit about the need for change. Hope reinforces the importance of direction, careful yet critical thinking, mapping the path towards the horizon. Courage stands, places his right hand over his heart and begins to pledge his allegiance to the cause, promising never to abandon the spirit.

Fear rudely interrupts..... but is quickly expelled by love.

Records are maintained by the soul, stored within walls of an endless hall, countless stories memorized and sometimes expressed by the eyes, yes we remember every word. How else can we grow?... how else do we learn from our mistakes, steadily climbing the ladder while increasing our risk.

Amy Winehouse - Back to Black

For those of you who listened to Ghostface Killa's latest release, More Fishes, you may recall one of the (in my opinion) standout tracks, You Know I'm No Good, featuring Amy Winehouse.

Hoping to hear more from Amy, who I thought was a newly discovered talent from the slums of Shaolin, I was shock to learn 'You Know' was originally produced by Salaam Remi, for Amy's forthcoming US release Back to Black. Intrigued, I took a chance and decided to buy the import.

With her heart-felt lyrics & sultry voice, reminiscent of Nina Simone and Lauryn Hill, Amy seduced me, removed my shirt and proceed to message my shoulders releasing the built up tension courtesy of mind numbing radio programming.

How can I describe Back to Black? Think back to the golden age of Motown. That soulful R&B era that produced such great acts as The Shangri-Las, the Crystals and of course the most prolific dreamgirls of the 60's, The Supremes. Paying homage to the girl groups of the late 50's and early 60's, Amy manages to deliver a classic sound, true to it's form, mixed with a modern energy that will leave you satisfied from start to finish.

Amy's album is set to hit US streets March 13th however, if you just can't wait to hear something new and refreshing, pick up the import.

Some might not agree with my taste in music, but those who have listened to Back to Black (Stumpy-P) say the album sounds like a cross between classic Motown and Gnarls Barkley.

I doubt this album will get any support from radio, which is a shame. Good music these days can only be discovered by those willing to find it. I hope you will.

Amy - drop me a line when next your in NY. and if you need help pushing this album, I'll be right there to support.

Check out the video for 'You Know You're No Good'
Happy Hunting...

Back in USA

Well, after a long night playing poker and blackjack in various Panama City casinos, I finally made it back to Atlanta. Home safely. For those who may happen across my blog, I fully expect to have a complete recap ready with pics later this evening. Unfortunately I'm back at work (i guess we all have to make a living)... If I only had one word to sum up my experiences, it would be ...

Happy Thanksgiving from the Mountains of Panama

We've arrived at our final destination to celebrate Thanksgiving with the other Peace Corps volunteers in the mountains. Can't wait to tear into some turkey, even if it's panama. Hopefully if we're not to drunk later, I will have a chance to post some pics from the trip - especially the horseback riding excursion yesterday. My horse had a serious attitude, and from what I could understand, had thrown a women just a few days prior, - just my luck :)

OK time to unwind. More to follow.

Time in Panama

Hello from Panama... hope everyone has a happy thanksgiving holiday. Hopefully I will get a chance to post pics later. By the way Angel is soooo lame.. she's changed.... None the less, we're on our way to the highlands... right now we're in David on the northwestern side of the country, just outside the Costa Rican border... See you all later...

Passport - If you don't have one - get one, NOW!

People, for those of you who do not have a passport, I HIGHLY recommend purchasing one. Passports are good for 10 years and cost about $70+. I say this because I found a very cheap flight to London (about $188 round-trip), and unfortunately none of my friends can go because they don't have passports. You never know when the opportunity will arise, be prepared, make the investment.

Dave Chapelle - Inside the Actors Studio

For those of ya'll who missed the original airing of Inside the Actors Studio with Dave Chapelle it re-airs on Thursday Feb. 16th & March 5th @ 8pm on Bravo. I unfortunately missed the first airing however those I spoke with all agree, it was a MUST SEE! Dave debunks many of the rumors surrounding his trip to Africa and talks specifically about the cultural divide that is still prevalent in today's society. Thankfully I now have a TV tuner on my computer, so even if work requires more of my time than I prefer, I can capture a VCD to watch at my leisure. Take that TIVO!!!

Battlestar Galactica #1 TV Show of 2005

While scanning the news this morning I came across TIME Magazine's list of the top 10 TV shows of 2005. What a pleasant surprise to find one of my favorite shows at the top of the list. For those of you unfamiliar with Battlestar Galactica tune in the SCI-FI channel on January 6th to watch the second half of season 2. Truly one of the best dramas on TV today (right up there with LOST and Carnivale - bring it back HBO!!!!).

The Possibility of Language

After a long sabbatical, my yearning to write received a fresh pair of shoes for thanksgiving, thanks to my sister. While spending time home with the family, my sisters fuel for knowledge (and jeopardy @ 7pm) and my niece and nephews non-stop wrestling matches reminded me of why I write - to inspire, to motivate, to share and to learn. Although we're miles apart, we share so many traits and similar passions. I give thanks to mom, she was always the artistic one in the family. Well to those who find this online expulsion of rhetoric and nonsensical ramblings, please visit my sisters first online blogging experience - The possibility of language.... Love you sis!!!

Star Wars III - Is a Must See!!!

Now this post may just add to the noise however after seeing the new Star Wars ROTS, I am compelled to post. This movie is excellent, and keep in mind I'm not a Star Wars junkie. Now I will forgive some of the stiff acting, because the action and plot do more for this movie than some of the bad dialogue between the supposed lovers Anakin Skywalker and Padme' Amidala. (IMHO, Ever since episode 1, their love affair never felt --- real.) That aside, this movie ties up all of the loose ends leading into episode 4: A new hope. I won't provide spoilers, I recommend you take the kids, wife and/or girlfriend/boyfriend and be prepared to be entertained.

Mr. Lucas, if ever you happen across this post, THANK YOU! In my opinion, you have redeemed yourself and the Star Wars franchise with one final blow - the birth of the greatest super-villain, Darth Vader, and bringing a close to one of the greatest stories ever told - sorry Jesus...

Time Away in Beautiful Canada

Well folks, this week I am in Toronto, Canada for the always exciting search engine strategies conference. WOW, I can't tell you how big this city is. I was impressed by the various skyscrapers in the midst of construction. I thought Atlanta was a booming town, but I stand corrected. As I am preparing for a presentation tomorrow I don't have the luxury of providing all of the intimate details of this trip, maybe a later post. Hopefully before my flight I can snap a few pics.

Now that I think about it, I don't think I've seen one police car or officer since I've been here. Rare, considering the fact I've been awarded 2 speeding tickets in Atlanta in the last month. I really should consider removing the modifications I made to my car...

New Music Thursday: Gaelle (Naked-Music)

Artist: Gaelle (pronounced guy-elle)
Album: Transient
Label: Naked Music

Now, I’ve known Gaelle since the early 90s. Who would have guessed she would end up living on campus next to one of my best friends. Even after our first encounter, I could tell there was something very special about her. Maybe it was the intensity in her eyes or the soothing sound of her voice. Either way, I was in love. But like most great love stories, a series of tragic events and bad decisions would bring a close to that chapter of our lives.

Gaelle is a New Jersey native, by way of her Haitian roots but calls Atlanta home. She has worked with various artists from Atlanta’s own Chris Brann to Cee-lo Green (Goodie Mob).

After 4 years of meticulous preparation, late nights and several thousand cups of coffee, Gaelle and her partner, co-producer Eric Stamile, have created an emotional, sensual masterpiece that blends so many genres of music that it defies categorization. It doesn’t realty fit into any one box. Transient is an intoxicating, hypnotic blend of R&B rhythms with a rich mix of house, jazz and neo-soul. Her lyrics are deeply emotional, personal, sometimes tragic yet inspiring.

Keep an eye out for Gaelle, her star is rising, and if by chance she’s playing in a town near you, I highly recommend you check it out. You won’t be disappointed.