Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA)

Monday Morning Contracting Tips

by   Dannie E. James Sr

          JE Group LLC

          Phone: 404-557-0027

          Fax: 404-521-4018

          www.jegroupllc.com

The Challenge of Applying the Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) Process to the Procurement of Complex Services

When the Government used LPTA, they should be required to define Technically Acceptable to ensure needed quality: Industry has expressed concerns about the use of Lowest Price, Technically Acceptable ("LPTA") selection criteria that essentially default to the lowest price bidder, independent of quality. Where LPTA is used, the Department needs to define TA appropriately to ensure adequate quality.

Government are moving to increased reliance on the Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) source selection method. 1 Under defined circumstances, the LPTA process can control costs and result in best value for the Government. But the LPTA process, which can eliminate agency discretion to value technical and other non-cost superiority, is not appropriate for all acquisitions. Within the context of professional services, even under the best of circumstances, the LPTA method creates risks that need to be mitigated by a precisely drafted solicitation and a technically rigorous, carefully managed proposal evaluation process.

Many Contractor’s would recommend that solicitations for complex professional services avoid using the LPTA source selection process. Such solicitations should instead adopt a classic best-value/cost-technical trade-off approach to afford the Government flexibility to value technical superiority relative to potential cost savings.

Many of the government proposal evaluators are pushing back on the use of lowest price, technically acceptable (LPTA) evaluation criteria—and for good reason. They are now learning that this evaluation criteria can limit their ability to exercise reasonable judgment in the evaluation process and may result in contracts awarded to companies that are clearly inferior and have less qualified offerings compared to others in the competition.

Here are two instances where the use of LPTA evaluation criteria backfired on the government decision-makers:

1.   Superior value versus price

2.   Past performance and performance risk



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Experience East Point Multicultural Festival An ISO 20121

by C. Henry Adams


In October of 2015,  an idea to create a multicultural festival began when two business men and one City Councilman of East Point, Georgia toke a walking tour through the East Point Commons; a green space set for future development.

Basically, the concept was to draw more attention to this particular City and its diverse Cultures living in North Georgia. The special event would consist of a three day Family Occurrence located in downtown East Point, Georgia  on Labor Day weekend.

The function would be design to help draw attention to local restaurants, stores, beauty parlors, barber shops and civic organizations. Furthermore,  it would introduce 'Live' Music, Food, Arts and Merchandise for sale in the East Point Commons, as well as, the Buggy Works areas.

The entry to this festival would be free of charge, but  for certain performances on any of the three stages in existence, may require an admission fee.

Several companies got together and eventually pitch this idea to 'East Point Business and Industrial Development Authority', as well as, private land owners who all own a large portion of the East Point Commons.

The simple concept is a WIN-WIN scenario for all involved, if properly implemented.

Why?  Well, it would re-introduce the City of East Point, Georgia to the World.  It would drive people and commerce into the area while broadening the minds of individuals about various cultures.

It is one thing to dream up an idea and it is quite another thing to make it a reality.

In doing so, planning properly is a big key.  But, a plan without actions, checks, balances and a continual flow will not likely work well. 

Thus, ISO 20121 or sustainable events planning - business model, became the International Standard for the development of this festival.

If you would like to sponsor this special event, please click here:

Stay tune for more information about this occasion as it evolves.

Vendors are welcome!  Click here for more information: 


Well, these are my thoughts, what say you?  Thanks for reading our blog.






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West Atlanta, the TSPLOST & MARTA Transportation Referendum

                                Corner of  Linkwood Rd & Tribble Lane (No Sidewalk Visible)

By C. Henry Adams

June 6th 2016  8:15 pm EST

Tonight, located at the Center for Civic Innovation - 115 Martin Luther King Jr Drive SW Atlanta, GA 30303 on the 3rd Floor;  a meeting occurred that I and many others did not get a chance to participate in due to one thing or another.

This meeting was likely a Community Information Meeting, whereas, a Group of People would learn about upcoming legislation.  Perhaps, they discuss placing a general vote on the ballot in the Fall of 2016 to fix our roads, non-existing sidewalks, as well as, other badly needed infrastructure within the corridor of Martin Luther King Jr Drive.

Here is a link regarding the discussion mentioned above:  http://beltline.org/2016/06/03/info-on-marta-and-tsplost-ballot-measures/

Now, if the link does not work after a certain period of time has passed; here are two PDF - Question and Answer documents to download, whereas, one is regarding the TSPLOST and the other - MARTA Transportation Referendum.

1) TSPLOST:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B3zMnOB0CuuBNGd3a1lYdmROYmc/view?usp=sharing


2)  MARTA Transportation Referendum:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B3zMnOB0CuuBWEVNTWVob0JWcXM/view?usp=sharing 


West Atlanta, particularly Neighbors living near the point sixty-fifth 0.65 of a mile passage called, "Linkwood Road".  It is important to vote in favor of the TSPLOST and call your local City Council Person to get a sidewalk extending from Collier Drive on Linkwood Road to Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.

This short distance has been a concern since at least 1964 (Over 50 years ago),  when the Linkwood Bridge was built to cross I-20.

Well, these are my thoughts.  What say you?  Thanks for reading our blogs.





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Leading A Horse To Water Is Not Just A Metaphor, It's A Reality

by C. Henry Adams

Today is a great day.  Why?  Despite of our circumstances, we've lived to experience another day.

Disclaimer: Incidentally, we found the above image on the Internet to express a point. We do not own the above image and it is not our intent to sell it, but merely to share it.

What do you interpret from the image shown above?  Well, I see a person trying to lead a horse to water, possibly to drink and it resist. Hidden in the ' Title 'of this blog and the blog itself is a double metaphor.

First, as a person - I'm an optimistic thinker and second, a realist or someone who accepts reality.

As a business person, I try to find a positive solution in everything we tend to perform.  While being very aware of the reality of the situation at hand.

Fore, it is your WILL to live and prosper that help change the outcome of negatively perceived circumstances.

Is this having hope, as well as, faith while being strong through adversity?  In my professional opinion, YES.

So, should I stop trying to lead horses to water to drink?   My answer is NO.

In other words, as a blogger, I should not stop working to bring forth a better financial outlook for clients.

Disclaimer: It is not my intent to be arrogant or disrespectful.

Well, these are my thoughts, what say you?  Thanks for reading our blogs.

Thanks!


C. Henry Adams
Benefits Advisor
Aflac
977 Montreal Rd
Box 1089
Clarkston, Georgia 30021
bienminc@gmail.com
CHA Linkedin 
(404) 254-7187

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Listeria Monocytogenes Concerns

by C. Henry Adams

Listeria Monocytogenes is a bacterium that grows without certain nutritional supplements, AKA a Nonfastidious bacteria.  It can be found in foods that we eat, particularly Sun Flower Seeds, soil and sewage to name a few.

Since April 23rd 2016, we have been observing a number of Food Recalls on the FDA and posting them in Social Media ( From the likes of Facebook to Twitter, to Linkedin and Next Door.)

See a list of FDA recalls below:

1) April 23rd 2016   CRF Frozen Foods Recalls Frozen Vegetables Due to Possible Health Risk
    http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm497297.htm?source=govdelivery&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

2) May 9th 2016     Kroger Recalls Broccoli Raisin Salad After Supplier Listeria Concern
    http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm499961.htm?source=govdelivery&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

3) May 10th 2016    Kroger Recalls Simple Truth Organic Frozen Mix Vegetables after Supplier Listeria Concern    http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm500271.htm?source=govdelivery&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery


4) May 13th 2016    Dr. Praeger's Sensible Foods, Inc. Announces Voluntary Recall of Various Dr. Praeger's and Ungar's Products Related to CRF Frozen Vegetable Recall for Possible Health Risk     http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm501243.htm?source=govdelivery&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery



5)  May 16th 2016    The Quaker Oats Company Issues Voluntary Recall of Quaker Quinoa Granola Bars Due to Possible Health Risk      http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm501248.htm?source=govdelivery&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery


6)  May 21st 2016   Papa John's Salad and Produce Recalls Oriental Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing Due to Possible Listeria monocytogenes Contamination     http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm502537.htm?source=govdelivery&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery


7)  May 23rd 2016   First Source Recalls "Various Products Containing Sunflower Kernels Received From Our Supplier Sunopta" Because of Possible Health Risk    http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm502736.htm?source=govdelivery&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery


8)  May 24th 2016    E S Foods Recalls Meal Breaks Containing Sunflower Seeds Because of Possible Health Risk    http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm503034.htm?source=govdelivery&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

Because, Listeria Monocytogenes is associated with listeriosis and could cause meningitis; this is no joking matter.

Possible Problem Solver: 

Practice rinsing and cleaning Fruits and Vegetables off in clean water before eating. 

Regarding Sun Flower Seeds, try pouring them in a bowl of clean water; let sat for 15 minutes; then drain them slowly in a strainer.  Allow them to air dry.  Heat them at 200 degrees F in a stove for 15 minutes; this could help kill the type of bacteria mentioned above,  if any is present. 

Well, these are my thoughts, what say you?  Thanks for reading our blogs!


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What is it to know about SBA’s Scorecard

Monday Morning Contracting Tips

Dannie E. James Sr

JE Group LLC

Phone: 404-557-0027

Fax: 404-521-4018

www.jegroupllc.com

According to the SBA, its annual Scorecard is an assessment tool to:

1) measure how well federal agencies reach their small business and socio-economic prime contracting and subcontracting goals,

2) provide accurate and transparent contracting data, and

3) report agency-specific progress.

Every year, the SBA works with each agency to set their prime and subcontracting goals and their grades are based on the agreed upon goals.  Each federal agency has a different small business contracting goal, determined annually in consultation with SBA.  SBA ensures that the sum total of all of the goals exceeds the 23 percent target established by law.

The individual agency scorecards released by SBA, as well as a detailed explanation of the scorecard methodology, is available online at:  https://www.sba.gov/contracting/finding-government-customers/see-agency-small-business-scorecards.

Since SBA started the current small business procurement scorecard methodology in FY 2009, six agencies have received a grade of “A+” or “A” seven fiscal years in a row (FY 2009 through FY 2015):  the Departments of Agriculture, Homeland Security, Interior, Labor, Transportation, and the Environmental Protection Agency.

The overall federal small business prime contracting performance released on April 28, 2016 by the SBA, as well as a detailed explanation of the calculations, is available online at http://go.usa.gov/Nxxd.

All The Best

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Crunch Period For EEPMCF Began Today

by C. Henry Adams


Today ( Thursday, May 19th 2016 ) at 7:00 pm EST; 'Experience East Point Multicultural Festival' ("EEPMCF") will go before the East Point Planning and Zoning Commission to pursue the opportunity to bring this Festival to East Point, Georgia in 2016.

There is a saying, " Nothing great comes easy. 'Experience East Point Multicultural Festival' will be a colossal special event."  From May 2016 through the month of June 2016, EEPMCF will work hard to make this occasion a reality in the City of East Point, Georgia on Labor Day Weekend, Sept. 2nd - 4th 2016.

EEPMCF's Staff are constantly balancing themselves through proper planning of this event while seeking sponsors, vendors and acts.

Although, it is the beginning of the crunch period for the organization, success is a job won.

There is a start to the race, a constant run and a sprint to finish the journey while getting it done.

Well, these are my thoughts, what say you?  Thanks for reading our blogs.











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Rest In Peace SHA-1 There Comes A Time For SHA-2

by C. Henry Adams

In Life on the Internet,  like anything else, this (SHA-1) too, shall pass away.   In telecommunications, the Internet, advance technology; what is new today, could be possibly gone tomorrow.  This is a truth that I dare not deny.

Thus, the discussion here is cyber security related.  If the writing is on the wall or should I state in the blogs (LOL), perhaps, we should all listen.

Let's see, it has been written on  September 14th 2014 in Mozilla or farther back in 2005 by Schneier that SHA-1 was a cyber security risk.  Later in the years following, it would begin to be considered phased out as stated in a Mozilla Blog article.

But, if  you aren't a fan of the Firefox Internet Browser, maybe that news did not pertain to you.

Well, how about in November 4th 2015; that ought to have gotten your attention when Microsoft said it would what?  Depreciate or block SHA-1 signed TLS certificates from Windows.

Huh!  What!?  You don't utilize Firefox Internet Browser or Windows Operating Systems?

Well, what say you about Chrome and Google?  Especially when Google states, "Chrome does not treat SHA-1 certificates as secure anymore," on December 18th 2015?

Are you wondering now what the heck is a SHA-1 (or) SHA-2 and how in the Internet World will it involve you?   Ok cool.  Let's learn a little history about encryption.  Why?  Well, in order to know where you are going in life on the Internet, maybe,  it would be good to know where you come from...

SHA-1 was created by the NSA (US National Security Agency) in 1995.  Sorry, we don't have any links to share, but please feel free to research SHA-1.   Basically, it is a cryptographic hash function; in layman terms, I would state, " a mathematical way to scramble communications".  SHA stands for Secure Hash Algorithm. 

Well, there is an old saying that does not exactly go like this,  " If one person can build an object of desire and usefulness,  a Knucklehead can figure out a way to come and completely tear it down. So, before he or she do,  anticipate this action and build many more. "

Thus SHA-2 and SHA-3.   So, I'm guessing you would like to know the purpose of a SHA.

Well, a SHA has (4) properties:
The ideal cryptographic hash function premises:

• compute a value for any given message
• generate a message
• make a small change to a message
• create more different messages to communicate

Anyway, it looks like SHA-1 was just not working securely, so they decided to retire it.  In fact, 2017 appears to be an important year, if not sooner (July 1st 2016) for the change over.

I can hear someone saying, " What change over!? "   To best answer that question, a SHA-2 signed TLS (Transport Layer Security) certificate would be ideal now to utilize within web development when communicating money transactions, personal information (healthcare information related) , as well as, many other aspects on Today's Internet.

Well, those of my thoughts, what say you?  Thanks for reading our blogs.



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CZIM: Experience East Point Multicultural Festival Presentation

by C. Henry Adams

On Tuesday, May 17th 2016 at 6:30 pm EST; located in the City of East Point Office of Planning and Zoning, 'Experience East Point Multicultural Festival' will give a brief presentation to the public regarding this upcoming occasion.  The introduction of the special event will be followed by a question and answering period.

A number of Public Notices were officially mail out to Citizens, Businesses and Civic Organizations in the City of East Point Ward A.  Currently, a Purple Sign is also posted in the East Point Commons area next to East Point Street.





To learn more about "Experience East Point Multicultural Festival, click here and download a PDF: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B3zMnOB0CuuBVDB5ZU12ajZ1bGs/view?usp=sharing

Well, thanks for reading our blog.  Stay tune for more information regarding this phenomenon.


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The Small Business Government Contracting “Past Performance” Challenge

Monday Morning Contracting Tips

Dannie E. James
djames@jegroupllc.com

As a small business begins the proposal submission process to federal government agencies or to prime contractors the past performance challenge is a major challenge. By definition a start-up company in government contracting has no direct government agency past performance projects to site in meeting the requirement in requests for proposals (RFP’s) for historical references to similar projects in terms of size, duration and complexity.

Past performance data must be specific to the enterprise bidding a contract. Many companies attempt to site historical references to performance of individuals now in the company when they were with other firms, achievements by predecessor companies or successful projects that the current company did not perform as its current entity. Some federal agencies identified this reference as "Fronting" a new enterprise with misleading information about the Company’s past performance.

So how can a new organization or one that is new to government contracting muster a response to the past performance challenge?

The answer lies in historical projects that may be similar in the commercial arena and a high quality proposal that clearly demonstrates an understanding of the requirement at hand, a unique and cost effective project plan and high performing personnel and/or products tailored to the statement of work to offset an interim, light past performance record.

A past performance reference sheet usually accompanies an agency RFP. It normally requires the bidder to fill it out with references to historical projects the company has performed and the contact points for confirmation. The government may request these forms in advance of the main body of the proposal to allow enough time to send them to the references. The past performance form is sent by the government to the references and you never see the result. The input goes directly from your past performance references back to the government.

Many small businesses work through prime contractors to "Grow" past performance history (subcontracts count). By teaming with a sizable firm a small entity can relate its participation to larger projects and ultimately graduate to a good library of references, carefully maintained and kept as a living, growing data base of good customer service records that can be sited again and again in proposals.

It is wise to keep customer perceptions of your professionalism and products or services alive by constant vigilance, visits, surveys and other feedback mechanisms so that you are not surprised at a proposal debriefing when you find that a client you thought rated you highly did not.

The major services maintain past performance records by contract that you can access. Inquire with them as to a membership at the appropriate web site and review them regularly. The GSA utilizes service companies to rate contractors. You can get your rating by inquiring with them, much like a credit rating, except pertinent to cost, schedule and technical performance. Monitor your D&B report. It is always out there for prime contractor and government assessment of your financial health, your vendor payment history, your organization profile and your rating.

Insure your web site, your capability statement and your marketing plans are maintained current alive and dynamically reflective of your successes as you pursue new business and carefully develop your library of past performance record by project with accessible profiles to use in your government proposals.

All The Best

Dannie E. James Sr

JE Group LLC

Phone: 404-557-0027

Fax: 404-521-4018

www.jegroupllc.com


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Are Cities and Utilities Benefiting From Social Media?

by C. Henry Adams

Are Cities and Utilities Benefiting from the "likes" of Social Media?  Really!?  Are they?  My answer would be "yes".  Why? 

Well, with the realization of Cell Phones, excuse me; Smartphones coming with Internet, Text Message and Voice mail capabilities. 

Not to mention the fact, you can dial the number and speak with the person; it is one of the official, effective Forms of Communications in Today's Society.

Don't be fool or scam.  I've seen and witness individuals , old as 90 years and young as 4 years, utilizing the aforementioned device or IoT (Internet of Things).

You too have witness it, likely if you are reading this blog.

So, what's the point.   Well, if you live in Atlanta, Georgia, perhaps adding your smartphone number to NotifyATL  ( https://member.everbridge.net/index/3091830992273427#/signup ) is not a bad idea.

Also, you can find Atlanta Watershed Management (drinking water), on Twitter - @ATLWatershed

Regarding traffic notices, the Georgia Department of Transportation notifications ( http://www.511ga.org/cp511 ) is a good idea as well.

OK, OK, that's not a Utility, but Georgia Power Alerts are here: ( https://customerservice.southerncompany.com/Account/PreferenceCenter.aspx?nav=outage#outagealerts )

@GeorgiaPower on Twitter

So, what did we forget?  I  know, Natural Gas Alerts or Emergencies , right!?

Well, the Natural Gas Market has multiple companies to choose from in Georgia, whereas, the main company (Atlanta Gas Light) technically turns on or off the natural gas.

Nonetheless, this would also include responding to gas leak emergencies, but they do not have text message alerts established.

However, you can call Atlanta Gas Light 24-hour emergency response line at 877.427.4321.

Furthermore, you can find Atlanta Gas Light on Twitter: @atlantagaslight

I can hear somebody living in Atlanta, Ga saying, " But I use Scana! ".  Yet, I hear another person living in Atlanta, Georgia saying, " I utilize Gas South! "  Still, another person yells,  " I use Georgia Natural Gas!"

My reply:  If you mess around and don't pay your natural gas bill; guess who turns the gas off for either of the aforementioned companies in Atlanta, Ga? 

Answer:  AGL or Atlanta Gas Light, now owned by the Southern Company who owns Georgia Power. 

So, that Internet is not all bad afterall, huh!?  LOL   Well, these are my thoughts.  What say you?

Thanks for reading our blogs.   Oh, find us on Twitter @CHENRYADAMS


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Scrap Tire Drop Off Point @ Adamsville Recreation Center

By C. Henry Adams

On Saturday, April 30th 2016 from 9:00 am until 1:00 pm, located at 3201 Martin Luther King Junior Drive in Atlanta, Georgia 30311; there will be a scrap tire drop off point.

Our definition of  "drop off point" within this blog, basically states that Adamsville Recreation Center parking lots will be where you can leave scrap tires for proper disposal.

It is important to note this particular event; because it is a very positive effort to remove our communities, neighborhoods and homes of scrap tires.

What problems could scrap tires cause just laying around in our environment?

List of Problems Observed:

1)  Health & Environmental Related Issues
a) A possible place for disease carrying mosquitoes to thrive.
b) Diseases such as the Zika Virus and Malaria could occur as a result of scrap tires.

2)  Influence of Criminal Activity
a)  Gangs or Organized Criminal Elements may use scrap tires to mark territory.

3) A Habitat for Snakes and or Rodents

If any combination of the (3) three mentioned items above concern you, your family or neighborhood, perhaps this is your opportunity to do something about the situation.

Also, in the City of Atlanta, you can volunteer, report illegally dumped scrap tires or for questions, contact the ' Keep Atlanta Beautiful Commission ' at 404-330-6721 or email kngreenlee@atlantaga.gov

Well, those are my thoughts.  What say you?  Thanks for reading our blogs.



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Doc Show @ Final Fitness Friday In East Ridge, TN

by C. Henry Adams


In my opinion,  Tyler Perry and his Writers definitely got it right when they wrote a Situational Comedy Television Show Series called, " House of Payne! " years ago.   It was about a Middle Class Family located in Atlanta, Georgia.

Its scary to think, how ' on point ' (Accurate and detail in observation of behavior.)  some of the characters appeared to resemble family members, friends and neighbors in the ATL (Atlanta, Georgia USA).    But, let me change the subject. 

Today,  Actor Doc Shaw, who played a character named 'Malik'  in this particular TV event has reached new heights.

For a number of years, accompanied with his Mother, Tammie Shaw; they both set out to visit various communities in the US while promoting Good Health in Youth.

On Saturday, April 30th 2016, Doc will be in East Ridge, Tennessee for the 'Final Fitness Friday' Event at Camp Jordan.   The address is 323 Camp Jordan Parkway East Ridge, Tn 37412.

The event is open to the Public and starts at 10:00 am.  Families living in this area, might consider visiting this occasion.

Thanks!


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A Legend and a Musical Genius Has Left Us

 

by Karen Scantlebury

President & CEO of AAIC Companies

 Luxury Travel Consultant at AAIC Luxury Travel
AAIC Promotional Products
AAIC Wedding Consultants and Event Planners, Inc.

A Legend and a Musical Genius has left us today and ascended into the Pearly Gates of Heaven. I am still feeling shocked over the passing of Prince.

During my early years, it was Prince, Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Vanity 6 and a host of fantastic artists that I listened to with my friends.

One of the first dance performances in grade school was to a Prince song called,  "I Wanna Be Your Lover".  I didn't understand the words at the time, but the beat was amazing.

We perform the Purple Rain - Song, as well as, Movie; it is so Epic. It was the first time that I was truly in Love.

Prince passing had a profound affect on me, because it has brought back so many memories of my youth.

Tomorrow is not promised, so,  you really have to start living for today.

Prince lived a full life and accomplish more than those who have lived to be 100; this gives me some comfort.

I am only saddened that he likely died alone.  Although it happens all the time, I feel no one should die alone.

I saw the following things about Prince on the Facebook Wall of one of my friends. I thought of sharing it with you below:

Thanks Ty. xoxo

Ten Things You Might Not Know About Prince~
1. Prince wrote his first song at the age of 7, and it was called "Funk Machine."

2. He danced on stage with James Brown when was 10. "My stepdad put me on stage with him and I danced a bit until the bodyguard took me off," Prince told MTV in 1985.

3. He later danced with Brown — and Michael Jackson! — in an amazing show at the Beverly Theatre in Los Angeles in 1983. (B.B. King also happened to be on stage.)

4. His first band when he was a young teenager was called Grand Central.

5. Prince was a hardcore Joni Mitchell fan as a teen. "Prince used to write me fan mail with all of the U's and hearts that way that he writes," she told New York Magazine. "And the office took it as mail from the lunatic fringe and just tossed it!"

6. He was once so poor that he'd just smell food instead of eating it. "I didn't have any money, so I'd just stand outside McDonald's and smell stuff," he told Rolling Stone in 1985.

7. He rejected a deal with CBS when he was 19 because they insisted that Verdine White from Earth, Wind, and Fire produce his first three albums. Prince later signed a deal with Warner Bros. that allowed him to produce his own music.

8. Another clause in Prince's Warner Bros. contract allowed him to recruit and produce other artists for the label. He took advantage of this to produce an album by The Time.

9. Despite the fact that he put The Time through rigorous rehearsals for the album, Prince ended up recording every single instrumental part on their debut album himself. The only member of the band who is actually on the record is singer Morris Day, who was forced to closely mimic Prince's delivery and is often overshadowed by his backing vocals.

10. Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, the production duo behind many of Janet Jackson's biggest singles in the '80s as well as hits by Mariah Carey, Boyz II Men, Human League, and George Michael, started out as members of The Time, but were fired by Prince.

Source: Buzzfeed

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Is a GSA Schedule right for your company?

Monday Morning Contracting Tips

Dannie E. James

djames@jegroupllc.com

Many businesses ask how they can figure out whether it’s worth their while to go after a GSA Schedule.   Let me share some information that may be helpful in answering this question. Maybe the information provided will guide your decision.

I think it’s important to understand what a GSA Schedule is and what it is not. 

A GSA Schedule is a contract awarded by a federal agency, the General Services Administration (GSA), to firms with established track-records of selling products or services.  A Schedule contract is long-term (a base term of 5 years, with renewal options to a maximum of 20 years).  Schedule contracts cover a wide array of products and services, there may be some products and services may not be purchase on a GSA Schedule.  Contract awards are based on “most favored customer pricing.”   While issued by the GSA, a Schedule contract can be used by any federal agency and, in some cases, by units of state and local governments.   Since everything is pre-negotiated, government agencies benefit from using Schedule contracts because acquisition lead-times are shorter, administrative costs are lower, and administrative steps are fewer. 

From a business point-of-view it’s very important to know that a GSA Schedule contract IS NOT an order, there are no funds obligated once you receive a GSA Schedule. Once you are awarded a Schedule contract, you must be prepared to actively market yourself to government buyers.   In many cases a GSA Schedule contract is referred to as “a license to hunt.”

Your initial step in pursuing one of these contracts should be to examine the entire list of 39 Schedules, including nine Schedules administered by the Veterans Administration.  You can search for details inside particular Schedules by conducting a key word search. Look for the Schedule that most closely fits your line of business.  Subcategories within each Schedule are called SINs — Special Item Numbers.   Remember, there is not a Schedule for everything. 

If and when you find a relevant Schedule, I recommend you research spending reports on individual Schedules.  This will give you some ideas about what kind of money is being spent on individual Schedules and who the prominent, winning Schedule contractors are.

You should do further market research on your potential competitors.  Remember that today’s competitors may be tomorrow’s business partners; GSA Schedule contractors are allowed to team-up with one another to execute government contracts.

All GSA Schedules are located on FedBizOpps — the central repository of virtually all government bid and proposal solicitation documents — so you can download the Schedule solicitation.  The solicitation consist of several different documents, so when you identify the solicitation please download them all.  Collectively, we’re talking about hundreds of pages here, so the real work now begins — you must read, and re-read, everything.   Only you can make a serious and accurate assessment of the impact of GSA’s terms and conditions on your business.  Particularly pay attention to the instructions in the solicitation — you will need to follow these “to the letter” to ensure that GSA accepts your proposal.

Note, too, that many Schedules solicitations allow you to submit your proposal in an electronic format rather than on paper.  These Schedules are designated as “eOffers.”

I know all of this may be a little overwhelming. After all, there are lots of ways to do business with the government, not just through a Schedule contract.  In fact, GSA itself contracts extensively with vendors outside of the Schedule process.  You can take a look at a forecast of GSA’s acquisition needs at www.gsa.gov/smbusforecast.  This forecast can help you plan your approach.   And don’t neglect to consider possible subcontracting opportunities with GSA contractors.

I hope this was helpful. 

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Next Generation Internet To Pinpoint You More Accurately

By C. Henry Adams

Recently, there were comments made by great individuals from around the World who are apart of the ISOC and the IGF.  The ISOC stands for the Internet Society. The IGF stands for Internet Governance Forum.  The discussion was regarding the 'Next Generation Internet' , whereas, it was understood that one day, possibly sooner than you or I could imagine; devices or IoTs ( Internet of Things ) connected to the Internet will be able to accurately pinpoint their whereabouts when in use.

By utilizing a geographic-concentric Internet, it will make finding geolocations more easier accurately. This will likely be the requirements for the development of machines with Internet access one day.

This means, if you are using an IoT smartphone at the corner of Ware Ave and Main Street in East Point, Georgia to call in an emergency.   The smartphone will likely be accurately picked-up by satellites, ground antennas, radar to pinpoint its exact location in locating you 24 hours a day, 7 days week and 365 days in a year, as long as, it is working; turned on /or off.

So, if  an autonomous robotic vehicle flying, rovering or moving on the ground, respond to your distress call; you can then thank the 'Next Generation Internet'.

Now of course, to evolve into this direction, it could likely do away with organizations such as ICANN (Internet Corporation of Assigned, Names and Numbers), IANA (Internet Assigned Numbers Authority)  and what we call RIRs (Regional Internet Registries) or in America, its called, ARIN (American Registry for Internet Numbers) .

So,  should we be concern about the advancement in telecommunications or what?  I personally think it is important read, learn, comprehend, understand and be apart of innovations in advance technology.

Why?   As my Late Father (Deceased) would often tell me when he was living.   "Know what you are getting into before you get into it..."

Well, these are my thoughts, what say you?   Thank you for reading our blog.







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UPDATE: Barney Simms death is not without sadness...

by C. Henry Adams

Barney Simms death is not without sadness, as well as, prayers and condolences to his Family. 

Furthermore, we hope, as well as, pray that those who are responsible for his death are apprehended soon. 

Fore, his untimely transition should serve as a greater concern to all the people living in West Atlanta, Georgia.  

Any time that you are shot down in your own yard; in the Neighborhood you raise your kids. 

The Community you tried to support as a Citizen in the City of Atlanta, the State of Georgia. 

All of sudden, peace is not still. 

Gunfire and gun violence should not be tolerated in a Country that is the Home of the Free and of the Brave. 

Shooting a gun is not freedom, nor does it make one courageous.

Recently, a 17 year old male was taken into custody for the death of Barney Simms.  What do we need to do to reduce and or eliminate this dismissive pattern of mentality among our youth?

What are we doing individually?   Are we speaking up and speaking out to our youth to help stop gun violence, crime and other negative behavior that will not benefit them, as well as, others going forward into the future?

These are my thoughts, what say you?  Thank you for reading our blog.



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Constant Gunfire Heard In Neighborhoods Could Lower Property Value

                                     Red shaded area illustrates location of constant gunfire.

by C. Henry Adams


This morning in West Atlanta around 6:30 am EST, several gun shots rang out in an area located in the City of Atlanta.   If this incident was an uncommon occurrence, many people residing in this particular historic community would likely go their merry way.

Unfortunately, this particular situation is now becoming too common.   It happens so much, neighbors call 911 to report shots fired giving the intersection of Linkwood Road and Delmar Lane as the location.

To complicate matters, this is the boundary line of Zone 4 Precinct and Zone 1 Precinct for the Atlanta Police Department ("APD").

Neighbors have been told by APD that Units ("A Team of Police Officers") specializing in violent crimes have been dispatched to this area often.

Some Neighbors in the area have witness the actions of these specialized units performing, yet, criminal problems still exist.

Trash thrown out of vehicles by passing motorists daily in this area of Linkwood Road and Delmar Lane have proven the facts that crime is found in filthy places.

Firing a gun into the air, the ground or anything - violates local laws.

It sends a clear message to many people who hears the weapon being discharge of its capable intent.

Thus, fear could set in the minds of People.

If the American way is to live in your home in harmony, whether you own it, lease it or rent it; gunfire heard does not give you a peace of mind.

Furthermore, it is likely that constant gunfire in neighborhoods could lower property value.

Why? Well, who would want to live in a place where they don't feel safe from harm.

Following the incident this morning, a small meeting convene with Walter Calloway a local law enforcement expert.  Mr. Calloway lives in the community where the gunfire was heard.  He crime fighting insights gives support to the local neighborhood.  

Furthermore, Mr. Calloway incidentally is now running for Fulton County Sheriff.

Click to hear a 15 minute excerpt of a meeting with a neighbor: https://www.freeconferencecall.com/wall/recorded_audio?audioRecordingId=ODUxNzg5NzU1fDU1OTk2MjU%3D%0AaC%25ODIyODQ3Njh8NTU5OTYyNQ%3D%3D%0A

Enough is enough. The regular gunfire heard in our community must come to an end.  

It could be likely one reason property value is particularly low in our area. 

No one would want to live in an area where they don't feel safe.

We have 2 choices, stop the gunfire or continue to live in fear.

These are my thoughts, what say you?

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Acquisition Team “US Government and Contractor” One Team One Mission

Monday Morning Contracting Tips
by Dannie E. James

Understanding how an Acquisition Team operates could position your company for greater contracts when doing business with the Federal Government.

Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 1 clearly defines the acquisition team as all participants in government acquisition including not only the representatives of technical, supply, and procurement, but also the customers they serve and the contractors who provide the products and services. You as a Contractor is part of the government acquisition team, the more you know about your team’s roles and responsibilities, including yours, you will be better suited for growing your business in the federal government market. The acquisition team should be working together toward a common goal not toward individual achievements. The only way you would know what the common goal is to interact with the acquisition team. You’re probably asking how do I interact with the acquisition team when I don’t know who’s on the team.

Please allow me to identify your acquisition team for most federal government agencies:

·        Contracting Officer
·        Contract Specialist
·        General Counsel
·        Small Business Advocate
·        Competition Advocate
·        Contracting Officer Representative
·        Customers
·        Contractor providing the Goods or Services

It is important that team members understand their roles and responsibilities – where specific duties are assigned, how performance measures and milestones are developed and that members are held accountable for individual work products. The success of many companies doing business with the federal government establish a similar acquisition team to support their efforts, ensuring that their team operate in a similar format as the US Government operates.

All The Best

Dannie E. James Sr

JE Group LLC

Phone: 404-557-0027

Fax: 404-521-4018

www.jegroupllc.com

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Knowing From Whence You Came Is Not Living In The Past

by C. Henry Adams


It's about 7:00 am EST on a Sunday Morning  (3/20/16), the first day of Spring in 2016 and I've realized that it is time to let go of certain people in life, things and objects of my past.

Knowing from whence we come from is not living in the past, but understanding our history is important to continue moving forward in a positive way into the future.


Why?   Well, what good does it do to dwell in the PAST, whether through THOUGHT, WORD or DEED; when it will not BENEFIT, your surroundings (Environment), your people or YOU?

Have you ever said or heard people say this phrase, " I'm sick and tired of...."   Guess what?  You just made yourself "Sick and Tired".  Speaking negativity into existence is real.

Furthermore, being sick and tired could be caused by stress.   So, why continue to reflect back on bad thoughts or misgivings, mistakes that you made, as well as, others made when dealing with you?

It's Spring 2016. Let Go and Let GOD.

Well, these are my thoughts, what say you?  Thank you for reading this blog, we greatly appreciate you.





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Kevin Heights Neighborhood Voice Its Concerns To Atlanta

by C. Henry Adams

In a rather quiet neighborhood tucked between I-20 and I-285 of Atlanta Georgia; neighbors met with Ceasar Mitchell, Esq., President of the Atlanta City Council. This meeting was not your typical Robert's Rules of Order sit down, instead, it was a 'Come walk with me and let us share with you some things.'

It was brought forth by James Tyler, President of Kevin Heights Neighborhood Association; Theo Pace, Chairman of NPU-I; and the President of the Atlanta City Council, Attorney Ceasar Mitchell.

Kevin Heights Neighborhood presented  a 23 page document or PDF regarding its concerns to the City of Atlanta Government.  This well thought out report was requesting a used tired clean up to avoid the Zika Virus and the development of sidewalks from the I-20 Linkwood Road Bridge to Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. It also requested repairing infrastructure that is well over 50 years old.

Attorney Mitchell with a Team of Atlanta City Government Officials, walked the entire three street boundary listening intently while greeting Neighbors from 80 years of age to barely braking the age of 1.

This historic event culminates with a community that is determine to keep America Great in Atlanta, Georgia.

Recently, it was discovered and later confirmed that Kevin Heights Neighborhood has disappeared off the City of Atlanta Geospatial Map. Likely, as a result of only one quadrant of the Collier Heights Community being deem Historical.

You see, under the late Mayor William Berry Hartsfield; the Collier Heights Community originally consist of (4) four quadrants. 

In 1958, the development of Kevin Heights Neighborhood began; it is the home of an Honorary Tuskegee Airman and the former home of a Montford Point US Marine who received the US Congressional Gold Medal Posthumously, to say the very least.

Fore, many distinguish Americans have evolved from this particular area known as an outer part of Adamsville, Georgia or the Lickskillet Settlement.

Quite simply, thank you City of Atlanta for visiting our modern day tribe and we eagerly await your response to our request for actions.

Ok, these are my thoughts.  What might say you?

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Thank You Alfonso Dawson Mortuary, Inc.

Dear Mrs. Phoebe Dawson Ushery,

I sincerely hope, as well as, pray this letter finds the Entire Family, Staff of Alfonso Dawson Mortuary, Inc. well. Since the year 2008, it has truly been an honor to support this Historic Funeral Home Conglomerate located in West Atlanta, Georgia.

I personally want to express gratitude for allowing my Companies to strategically place Alfonso Dawson Mortuary, Inc. on Social Media when the idea was not fully conceived or mainstream.

To date,  tweets have been generated of deceased loved ones with announcements and linked to a blog providing further details with the capability of video displays; this concept that BIE Companies created with your permission has grown in multiple fashions never before imagine.

We would like to thank you for your support throughout the trials and tribulations of developing business on the Internet.

We are aware that you seek to give other organizations the opportunity to grow.

On that note, we will be forever thankful and grateful to Alfonso Dawson Mortuary, Inc.

Sincerely,
C. Henry Adams
Chairman
Broadcasting Interest Enterprise, Inc.
BIE Media Group, LLC
BIE Companies

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Twitter 140-Character Limit About to Change

By Kurt Wagner
Re / Code

January 5, 2016, 8:47 AM PST

Longer tweets are coming soon to Twitter.

Twitter is building a new feature that will allow users to tweet things longer than the traditional 140-character limit, and the company is targeting a launch date toward the end of Q1, according to multiple sources familiar with the company’s plans. Twitter is currently considering a 10,000 character limit, according to these sources. That’s the same character limit the company uses for its Direct Messages product, so it isn’t a complete surprise.

There is no official launch date set in stone, these sources say. It’s also possible the character limit could fluctuate before it rolls out the final product, which people inside Twitter refer to as “Beyond 140.” Re/code first reported that Twitter was building a product like this back in September. A Twitter spokesperson declined to comment.

Read more:  http://recode.net/2016/01/05/twitter-considering-10000-character-limit-for-tweets/

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City of Atlanta, What Is I1?

by C. Henry Adams


While growing up in the western portion of the City of Atlanta during the 1970's and 1980's;  I was always told that in order to go somewhere in life, one should know from whence they came...

I can hear or should I say imagine someone out there in the World saying,  "Say what? What are you saying, C. Henry!?  I know where I come from, your comment does not make any sense. Please expound?"

OK, basically this cliche or words of wisdom in the simplest format, identifies the fact that an individual should know, be aware of and understand their own history.  In my professional opinion, regarding the background of the place or places to which you developed into an adult, you should also apply these words of wisdom when reflecting on the study of past events.

That being said, I grew up in the Community of Collier Heights; located in Atlanta, Georgia USA and in the Neighborhood that I've often described as a 'Modern Day Tribe' called, Kevin Heights Neighborhood.

In or around 1961 before I was born, the City of Atlanta Government (City of Atlanta Department of Planning) issued a booklet which outline and describe Collier Heights the Community.

At this particular time, William B. Hartsfield was the Mayor.

Americans of African descent were thriving and growing in the City of Atlanta.   The Community of Collier Heights was there before Interstate 20 and Interstate 285 fully developed.  In fact, according to the 1961 booklet mentioned above;  the Interstates actually divided the Collier Heights Community into (4) four quadrants. Its economic status consist of Wealthy, Middle-Class and Low-Income Citizens mostly of African American Descent located on the western portion of the City of Atlanta.

On May 15th 2009, the US National Register of Historical Places only identified one (1) quadrant of 4 as the Historical Collier Heights.   Some would guess because of the King Family and other wealthy families who were influential while living in that particular area.

The City of Atlanta is mostly located in Fulton County, Georgia.

In 1960, according to the US Census, there were 556,326 people living in Fulton County, Georgia.

By 1990, the number of people living in Fulton County, Georgia increased to 648,951.

Also in 1990, the number of people increased dwelling in surrounding Cobb County, Georgia (447,745), Douglas County (71,120), Clayton County (182,052), Dekalb County (545,837), Gwinnett County (352,910) and Henry County (58,741).

However, by 2014, it was estimated that 996,319 people lived in Fulton County, Georgia.

In 2014, it was estimated that 730,981 people lived in Cobb County, Georgia.

In 2014, it was estimated that 138,776 people lived in Douglas County, Georgia.

In 2014, it was estimated that 267,542 people lived in Clayton County, Georgia.

In 2014, it was estimated that 722,161 people lived in Dekalb County, Georgia.

In 2014, it was estimated that 877,922 people lived in Gwinnett County, Georgia.

In 2014, it was estimated that 213,869 people lived in Henry County, Georgia.

The growth of the City of Atlanta is very prevalent.  So much to the degree, bottle-necking on the major roads to which are technically no longer free is very obvious.

What was once Collier Heights Community Quadrant 2 ( I1 as seen in Image 2* below. ) near the intersection of I-20 and I-285 to the west of the City of Atlanta; has somehow lost its Neighborhood Names on the City of Atlanta Maps here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B3zMnOB0CuuBMEI1aTdRZHFieFk/view?usp=sharing

Therefore, we respectfully ask; City of Atlanta, what is I1?

http://www.atlantaga.gov/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=2702

http://www.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=758af081025b4ac3b0d7199dbc48e812

http://gis.atlantaga.gov/gishome/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=14&Itemid=49

                                                   Image 2*


Well, these are my thoughts.  What might you say?  Thanks for reading my commentary.  We greatly appreciate you.









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Taking vitamin D may benefit people with multiple sclerosis

Medical Xpress

Taking a high dose of vitamin D3 is safe for people with multiple sclerosis and may help regulate the body's hyperactive immune response, according to a pilot study published by Johns Hopkins physicians in the Dec. 30 online issue of Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.

"These results are exciting, as vitamin D has the potential to be an inexpensive, safe and convenient treatment for people with MS," says study author Peter Calabresi, M.D., director of the Johns Hopkins Multiple Sclerosis Center and professor neurology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. "More research is needed to confirm these findings with larger groups of people and to help us understand the mechanisms for these effects, but the results are promising."

Read more:  http://medicalxpress.com/news/2015-12-vitamin-d-benefit-people-multiple.html



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