Last call and Science Stories worth sharing

The Weekend is coming and I know most of you will be tuning out and off for this glorious holiday weekend and end of summer. So before you head out, be sure to take a few moments to vote in the 2008 Black Weblog Awards. Voting ends Sunday and if you don't do it before close of business today, it won't get done. C'mon, I know you. I know me. So please give me a nod and vote for my blog in the Science/Tech Category. I sure do appreciate it.



An now a little science to whet your appetite and keep all of your friends adn relations in awe. Links to other science stories.

How Peacocks Got Their Colorful Tails -- evolution, sexual selection piece

Cervical Cancer Prevention Should Focus On Vaccinating Adolescent Girls, Report Says -- health up date - controversal topic.

Acute maternal stress during pregnancy linked to development of schizophrenia -- health issues, social issues

Why Are 'Mama' and 'Dada' a Baby's First Words? -- evolution

Young Scientist Challenge - Finalists named

I posted the announcement for the Young Scientist Challenge back in May.

Now, the finalist have been named. DISCOVERY EDUCATION AND 3M ANNOUNCE FINALISTS IN PREMIER NATIONAL SCIENCE COMPETITION.

I spread the word a little among AfroSpear/Sphere members. Any word that any one we know participated? I'm curious.

Congrats to all of the hard-working students who participated and the teachers who assisted and mentored them.

Celebrate Science! Celebrate Young People's Acheivements!

Watching the DNC, but sick of the Obama Celebrity Comparisons

I'm watching the DNC and related news coverage and I'm enjoying it. But I am tired of the Obama-Celebrity references. Now, if a star shows up at the convention everyone is asking if that might hurt Obama. WHAT? All of this nonsese started with the McCain Ad on Obama as a Celebrity.

First of all, Obama isn’t a celebrity, he just happens to be very popular. The McCain camp is just jealous about all of the attention – from the media and from the droves of young people who like Obama. Haters.

Second, celebrities are citizens too. So they have every right to participate in the process. In fact, for many people they set an example of why civic engagement matters. Not that I think the masses need public figures to co-sign on things, but for more people than I like to admit, having a big star say something matters, means it matters. In this case, civic engagement matters.

Finally, I am SO disgusted by the selective memory of Republicans. First it was Clinton and drug use, but for George W it was a throw back to his heathen days. No big deal. Now Obama’s popularity means he can’t cut it. Hmmm, does anyone remember Ronald Reagan? He was a bona-fide movie star. And he was elected twice! Not only that, he is considered the quintessential Republican Leader.

Are you kidding me? The Republicans are playing the “celebrities can’t be leaders” card.

The Celebrity-Republican Hall of Fame

1. Ronald Reagan – Bedtime for Bonzo President

2. Arnold Schwarzenegger – the Governator




3. Sonny Bono – I Got You Babe Legislator








This tale needs to be neutralized right away. I’m sick of the media and conservative pundits making a big deal out of this.

Wake up people!

Ebony Magazine ain't S***

Last spring, I was actually spurred to create this blog about Science and Education and Black Class issues because of a feature in Ebony Magazine - 100 Most Influential Blacks in America.

I was irritated by the AMAZING lack of intellectual representation, particularly of scientists and academics. So on May 9, 2007, I wrote a letter to the editor of Ebony Magazine and posted about the matter on this blog.

Here is my letter

Dear Editor,

I recently read the May 2007 issue that featured the "150 Most Influential Blacks in America". It was truly inspiring to see a list comprised of key people from the realms of business, education, public service and other sectors of society. It was a fine example of your magazine's objective to "profile successful African-American role models." But I was dismayed by the absence of the influential Blacks in Science, Engineering, and Technology (SET). In fact, of the entire list, only one scientist was listed, Dr. Neil DeGrasse Tyson, a Physicist. I also noticed that the list failed to include one or more categories that would recognize such professionals. Example categories might have been The Most Influential in "Industry", "Science & Research", Medicine & Biotechnology", and/or "Science, Engineering, & Technology". Even among the list of organization leaders, I was shocked by the absence of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE). NSBE is not only a pre-eminent organization for black people pursuing a variety of technology and engineering careers, it is considered one of the largest and most influential college student organizations in the United States.

According to your website "Johnson Publishing Company is aimed at increasing African-Americans' pride in themselves by presenting their past and present achievements to America and to the world. This has been done by portraying the Black American experience in all its dynamics through the medium of printed words and images". Aren't the contributions of African-Americans as scientists and engineers important for shaping America and inspiring members of our community? Aren't these types of professionals worthy of portraying in printed word and images?

African-Americans are terribly under-represented in science, engineering, and technology fields. And I find it heartbreaking that a media giant such as Ebony Magazine "with over 12 million monthly readers that is full of information to enrich, encourage and enlighten the entire family; and offers fresh, exciting images and perspectives on the new Black America and remains the only Black general interest and major monthly magazine that covers all of Black America" does not take the time to inform its readership about "Influential Black Scientists and Engineers".

The lack of coverage of Black scientists and engineers, in media outlets and in your magazine in particular, sends a message to Black America that being a scientist or an engineer is an unimportant job and being one means that you are less valuable to society than say -- an entertainer. And nothing can be further from the truth. Science is the driving force of all modern life and Black Americans are apart of this story. We can't possibly hope to have more black scientists and engineers if the public is largely unaware of the existence of black scientists and engineers.

I would really like to see Ebony Magazine include more science and technology related stories in its line-up. It would also be a great treat and service to showcase Black Scientists, Engineers, and Mathematicians to your readers. Perhaps such positive stories about successful African-Americans might encourage more of our community to take pride in their academic success and close some of the education achievement gaps that exist.

I've also included a list of very important, very influential, and noteworthy Black Scientists for you to consider. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Dr. S. James Gates, Jr.: Physicist and Winner of the American Association for the Advancement of Science 2006 Public Understanding of Science and Technology Award AAAS is the world's largest scientific society and this is a VERY important testament to his influence.http://www.aaas.org/news/releases/2007/0215am_award_understand.shtml http://www.physics.umd.edu/ep/gates/gates.html Dr. Dawn Wright, Oceanographer.Learn more about her and her work here: http://sciencecareers.sciencemag.org/career_development/previous_issues/articles/3570/diving_into_the_deep/http://dusk2.geo.orst.edu/index.html Dr. Shirley Jackson, President of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. (She could have also been listed as an Influential Educator) and is also noted as the first woman to chair the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commissionhttp://www.nsf.gov/news/news_summ.jsp?cntn_id=108748&org=NSF&from=news Or any person featured on Delta SEE Radio: a science radio program produced by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. The Host, Dr. Dhyana Ziegler and Commentator, Dr. Shirley M. Malcom, are worthy candidates themselves for this category or the Education category. http://www.deltasee.org/radio/radio_seeradio.htm http://www.deltasee.org/radio/radio_bio101-105.htm#malcom Or any of the scientists featured on the Science Update Spotlight on African-Americans section.http://www.scienceupdate.com/spotlights/africanamerican.php

Here is their timely response to me on AUGUST 17, 2008.
Thank you for your email to the editors of Ebony magazine. We appreciate your interest and continued support of our magazine. While we do not have the ability to accept unsolicited material (stories, poetry, essays, etc.) we will make sure your information is passed along to the appropriate editor.Thanks again for you support.
Ebony Magazine

What the Hell!! OVER a year and a half and they respond. And it's a form response thinking I was submitting material...It was an E-di-tor-ial!

Fake journalism rag.

Science and Policy in US Politics

The Executive and Legislative Branches of our government are responsible for some important decisions concerning our lives, livelihood and our future. Science is everywhere, and there are dedicated scholars who spend their lives studying important phenonmena and events to increase out world body of knowledge. But how does this dense, nuanced information make it to the minds of the people who make the decisions and control the purse strings and regulatory strings? Another question, are our leaders making informed decisions are they shooting from the hip. Be informed about the state of scientific comprehension of our leaders

More news from AAAS - The President and Presidential Hopefuls and Science Policy Stands.

1. Report on Presidential Science Advice.
The Center for the Study of the Presidency has completed its report Presidential Leadership to Ensure Science and Technology in the Service of National Needs: A Report to the 2008 Candidates <http://www.info-aaas.org/util/link.jsp?e=47YNycyl_p6XJlMxZ4G3rDzMe3cAhKChnS8C6FuFEIQnGfQ..A&s=5ptD7vaHq6eNRuFxxCzjGDw..A&v=6EnOrQFKA9PFd_c3bam2jdQ..A> . The report contains a number of recommendations intended to be seriously considered by the presidential candidates' staffs before and during transition planning, in order to strengthen the S&T advice provided to the President and federal agencies.

2. The Candidates' Stances on Technology, Education.

a. Republican presidential candidate John McCain released a technology agenda <http://www.info-aaas.org/util/link.jsp?e=8b-GV3JGbMHd3PssHSnp4aSSEwQXbPkZUozIFXPN7q9uLdPq3GDeEbjUduFeNfSeL&s=5ptD7vaHq6eNRuFxxCzjGDw..A&v=6EnOrQFKA9PFd_c3bam2jdQ..A> last week that includes a permanent 10 percent tax credit on R&D wages, expansion of the H1-B visa program for foreign guest workers, and tax breaks for companies that give high-speed Internet access to low-income customers. McCain also said he will "strive to ensure that Administration appointees across the government have adequate experience and understanding of science, technology and innovation."

b. Democrat Barack Obama, who released his technology program <http://www.info-aaas.org/util/link.jsp?e=7m05EBfGhHdS0bmlwPqDN7IyLGOR1tf4ytSU4rc-3SqfQdyN7HFm1BjzY9E2IbxHv&s=5ptD7vaHq6eNRuFxxCzjGDw..A&v=6EnOrQFKA9PFd_c3bam2jdQ..A> in November 2007, has said he also wants to make the R&D tax credit permanent; reform the immigration process to increase the number of permanent visas issued to foreign skilled workers; and create a national "chief technology officer" to ensure that all federal agencies have the right infrastructure, policies and services for the 21st century.

c. Last week, the McCain camp also released its agenda for higher education <http://www.info-aaas.org/util/link.jsp?e=6isk9LxiL1JpBWJFMOUpopO508l6xc_KM6d_9TAkjX489PtvAl6NG7M4kWLXKqSLn&s=5ptD7vaHq6eNRuFxxCzjGDw..A&v=6EnOrQFKA9PFd_c3bam2jdQ..A> . The policy includes a call for the simplification of higher education tax benefits and federal financial aid programs, and the elimination of earmarks in federally funded research.

d. In his education policy, Obama also proposes <http://www.info-aaas.org/util/link.jsp?e=59NjMrf6iykdcnOKJtJ8yV2g9TKGIQwS6T-05tGEoc2riUgBbo2sip1GAoW6F3kod&s=5ptD7vaHq6eNRuFxxCzjGDw..A&v=6EnOrQFKA9PFd_c3bam2jdQ..A> to simplify the process of applying for federal financial aid and calls for a universal, refundable tax credit to ensure that the first $4,000 of a college education is free for most Americans.

State of Science Education Today

Below is a letter to Members of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) about the State of Science Education: The Education of Future Scientists by Dr. Alan Leshner, CEO of the largest professional society of physical & natural scientists, engineers, and social scientists.

Sciene and Science Education are important. Segments of society that are under-educated in science and math will not be able to fully participate (and advocate for themselves) in 21st century dynamics. Our health, food supply, living situations, medical care and even job opportunties are becoming more sophisticated and steeped in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) advancement.

******************************

We are living in a time when science and technology are embedded in every aspect of modern life, and therefore we must make sure that all students have familiarity with and a strong grounding in the nature of science and its core concepts. In addition, to assure a future of continuing scientific innovation, educators must continue to draw talented students into the science profession.

AAAS has had an array of direct impacts on how science is taught through our Project 2061, which laid the groundwork for science education standards, created benchmarks for science literacy, and has ongoing efforts to reform curriculum, instruction, and assessment. A Japanese translation of educational concepts for science literacy, workshops for teachers on how to use our Atlas of Science Literacy, and a field test of assessment tools for use in middle school classrooms are a few examples of Project 2061's recent efforts.

We further promote quality science education through Science NetLinks and its nearly 500 complete standards-based science lessons -- all freely accessible on the web. We engage budding scientists with radio programs, weekly online stories, events for families, and our Kinetic City after-school program. AAAS also recently helped create new science, mathematics, and technology resources for elected school board members across the United States. In addition, 48 middle-grade science and math teachers in Washington, D.C., recently earned master's degrees from The George Washington University in a free, three-year program held at AAAS.

But promoting science literacy and quality education is not enough to guarantee a new crop of professional scientists. We also must educate students about science career opportunities. AAAS has programs to help underrepresented minorities and students with disabilities enter the science work force. In addition, our Science Careers website is the most comprehensive resource for career advice and job openings.

Your AAAS membership helps improve science education. And many of you also share your scientific expertise by getting involved with local schools and youth groups, and by becoming mentors to the future's scientists. Many thanks for your participation and your support.

Sincerely,

Alan I. Leshner, CEO, AAAS

And the Nominees are.....Black Weblog Awards - I made the 1st cut

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!!!

Wow, I am so honored and grateful to the blog community and all of my blog readers -(I wish I knew who all of you were) for nominating this blog for the category - Best Science/Technology Blog. Here is the list of all finalists in 30 categories.

I really appreciate it. I'm adding the vote badge and finalist badge on the side.

Each category will have two winners. The top three most nominated blogs in each category will become finalists (in my category 5, I don't know who that happened) which the voting public will vote on via the finalist form. Our panel of judges will select their favorites (ranked on a weighted system) from the entire pool of nominees. These will all take place from August 17-31.

A couple of things to keep in mind.

1. You must submit your name and email address before voting. No ballot stuffing. If you try to vote multiply using the same email address the subsequent ballots get thrown out.

2. The final voting form will only accept your vote when you vote in EACH category. Got to vote in each one. That's just how they do it.

Now the voting begins.

The winners will be announced on September 4.

Thanks again!

The Urban Scientist.