Cultural Connect

Saturday, February 28, 2009

President Obama Drama Must Stop

On the night the President Obama was elected we witnessed the largest rainbow of all ethnic backgrounds and races come together for the joyous occasion. On that night President Obama talked about how we have come far but we must continue to fight for the survival of our country. So I ask why all of the President Obama drama this week. President Obama has spent much of the past year and a half campaigning and talking about how we must come together.

The depiction of the chimpanzee in the New York Post article helps all of us around the United States to never forget that there are elements of society who do not care for change. We turn our attention to the New York Post drama because it attempts to open old wounds that had begun to heal in our country. We are in a struggle for this country and we must not turn back to the chapters that reflected the poor judgment of those who set barriers based on ones race.

We all can rise together and aspire to be greater than those who attempt to portray President Obama in any other way than the esteem that he deserves. This is not a time for the distractions from the important national and global issues that the President must address. Let’s pray that President Obama will have wisdom to make the right decisions. The challenges that our country faces will require determination.


The New York Post got the attention of individuals all over the country. The chimpanzee picture spreed through the internet at warp speed. The American people were inspired to respond. People were inspired to do something about it. They sent the picture to their e-mail list and asking everyone to respond to the New York Post article. Whether you are a democrat or republican we must respond against racism in all of its forms. The persistence of racial issues only creates a canyon where there should be unity.

It is time for our society to grow up and face the reality of a country that is more diverse that it has ever been. For too long we have focused on ourselves rather than the needs of others. President Obama talks about all people coming together and making sacrifices because he knows what it will take to make this country great again. Once during the campaign President Obama was accused of being an eloquent only. Some said he was all words and no action. The coming weeks will prove that he knows when action is required. He will confidently continue to address the issues that divide this country

This will not be the last time that President Obama is portrayed in a way that is below his place in history. Let’s continue to take these threats seriously and respond with vigor. This country deserves the best. It is time to demonstrate that the people who have elected President Obama did not come together in vain. It has been a coalition of people who have determined that value can be found in all people. It’s time to come together and put an end to racism.

For twenty-six years, Dr. Jones has delivered presentations on numerous topics including how to study, leadership, effective communication, and innovative management practices. He is the author of three books one is titled “Seven Secrets of How to Study” the second is the “Parent’s Ultimate Education Guide” and the third is the “Ultimate Scholarship Guide.” The book provides an easy understanding of the seven pillars that are essential to learning success in K12 schools and college. His URL is http://www.sevenbooks.net

Labels: , , , , , , , , ,

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Seven Secrets of How to Study

According to Indiana University the average American student only studies 3 hours each week. That amounts to 20 minutes a day. A total of 60,000 students responded to this study skills survey. Each year thousands of students enter college thinking they can use high school study habits and easily sail through a college degree. They have a rude awaking when they discover success in college requires a minimum of three to five hours studying each day. Some students say studying the night before their examination seemed so much easier in high school.

Most students want to know what are the true seven secrets to better study skills and earning an A+. Is the answer studying all night before a major examination? Is it photographic memory you inherited from your parent? The answer to both questions is no. There are seven fundamental study habits that every student must master to get started on the right pathway to earning an A+.

Prepare for all Test Ahead of Schedule- Don’t wait until the last minute to prepare for your examination. Most students increase their level of test anxiety because they feel unsure that they have studied everything.
Start a Study Group-Get together with a group of students who are enrolled in your class. Set a date when you will meet and give out assignments so each person has a responsibility.
Don’t Procrastinate on Projects- Start all assignments in sufficient time to perform your best work. For example, if a science project is due in December you should start the project by October. Also, start all studying for examinations at least 4 days before the test will occur. If a term paper is due in November start your paper in September. Develop a plan that has cut off dates for each segment of your assignment.
Get the Energy you Need- Many students put off the first meal of the day. They are missing the most important meal of the day. Scientists have discovered that eating a good breakfast is better for your overall health. Feeding yourself with healthy foods and exercising have a positive effect on the brain.
Get organized. Purchase several three ring binders for all of your courses English, math, history and science. Keep copies of your homework, quizzes and examinations in your binders. Make a copy of your syllabus and put it in your binder. Use your binder each time you study for an examination.
Talk to Your Teacher- Often students are afraid to talk to their teacher - Meet with your teacher in their office at the beginning of the semester. Let them know that you want to understand every thing you must do to earn an A+. Always show interest in the subject they are teaching by sitting in the front of the class. Go to class with questions you’ve written on a sheet of paper.
Read your Textbook- Read your textbook assignment before every class. Reading early is beneficial because you will be prepared for your class. You will feel confident that you have knowledge of your subject and you can answer your teacher’s questions.


To avoid the pitfalls of procrastination you must have an academic plan. An effective study skills plan starts with organizing all of your learning materials. Begin with the end in mind. Determine what you would like to learn from each course. Instead of making plans to study at the last minute follow a calendar. You will experience the freedom of knowing where to find information when you need it. The more that you uncover the habits that block you from maximizing your achievements leads you into greater accomplishments.

When you follow these strategies you are on your way learning the Seven Secrets of How to Study. There is one more thing that is a vital factor in your success. You must have a positive attitude and expectation that you will earn a good grade. Approach each class with an expectation that you are going to earn an A+ and you will be half way down the road to a successful academic year. Launch into each study session with enthusiasm and excitement about the new information you are about to learn. It’s important to invest additional quality time studying to raise your confidence in each class. Remember the formula for success is to study 2 to 3 hours for every hour that you are in class.

Practice the Seven Secrets of How to Study and you will prepare yourself for lifetime of excellent grades. Dr. Stephen Jones is author of the “Seven Secrets of How to Study”, Go on the internet at http://sevenbooks.net to order a book or to order by telephone call 866-544-5490.

Labels: , , , , , ,