BBN compiled a list of frequently asked questions from members. We hope we were able to answer most of those questions below. You can email additional questions to info@blackandbrownnews.com. Thank you.
General
What is BlackAndBrownNews.com (BBN)?
Blackandbrownnews.com is a source of news, information and a community network forum. We capture news and information for you and provide the space for you to voice your thoughts.
Why was BBN created?
The Black and Brown world is large and few places exist where the black and brown perspective is considered in a public forum. BBN is doing its part to give YOU A VOICE in the world. You report, inform and/or comment on any topic or story from your corner of the world. If there is something happening in Ghana, Jakarta, the United States, Great Britain, Paris, Jordan, Jamaica, Chile or any place else in the world, BBN is the venue to share your perspective.
Who is BBN for? There is something for everyone - the young, mature, not so wealthy, affluent, street wise, scholarly, liberal, conservative, Black, Brown, Red, Yellow, White -- Anybody!
What else does BBN offer?
BBN is primarily a user-driven site created for you to voice your opinions. BBN, however, will bring you profiles, features and special series.
How do I use BBN?
To participate you have to be a member. There are several ways to use BBN:
- 1. You can post your comment on a story/topic that is already created on the site;
- 2. You can create your own story/topic.
- 3. You can find a story/article/issue that you find interesting and post it; or,
- 4. You can simply view/scan the site for information/postings.
Membership & Registration
Is membership free?
Yes. Membership is free. THERE IS NO CHARGE!
What is the benefit of membership?
News, information captured for you and access to voice your opinion.
Who can become a member?
Anyone can become a member. That is, anyone with access to a computer and a legitimate email address.
Can I post or comment on a story without being a member?
No. You have to be a member to participate.
Do I have to be based in the United States of America to be a member? No. You can be anywhere in the world to be a member.
How do I register to become a member?
Click on "register for free." Follow the steps. You have to use a legitimate email address. You will be emailed a link. Click on that link to activate your membership.
When I try to register some of the fields are bright yellow and the writing is white? I can't see what I'm typing. This is not a BBN matter. Google settings or something on your system has something to do with the annoying problem.
Why does BBN ask for my cell phone number?
Providing your cell phone number is optional. In the event there is a BBN news alert, we will text you. But BBN will not incur the charges. You should check with your telephone carrier for rates.
Will my information be sold to advertisers or third parties?
No. Read our privacy policy located at the bottom of the page.
How to Use BBN
What can I submit/post?
You can submit/post comments, stories/articles, photographs, video and/or audio clips.
Do I have to comment on lofty, serious, political, world matters only?
No. There are several categories of interest including lifestyle choices. You can comment on whatever makes you happy.
Who will be able to read my comments?
Your comments will be visible to anyone who visits the site. Other members can comment on your comments.
What is the "Photo-Image Feature"?
The Photo-Image Feature is the image you see when you visit BBN's Front Page; it's the image at the very top of the Front Page. We are looking for compelling and interesting images from around the globe. It could be a photograph or illustration. You don't have to be a professional photographer or artist to submit and be considered. (To have your Photo-Image considered, please read "editorial content consideration" below).
How do I post a story/comment?
Follow the instructions under "submit a story".
How do I create a story/topic?
Follow the instructions under "submit a story".
Where can I find a story-topic?
If you want to post a story/topic you find elsewhere, it is entirely up to you where you find that story/topic. It could be a magazine, newspaper, cable news outlet or network broadcasting organization. You are not limited to media sources. You may find a topic from your personal experiences in your day to day life as a student, parent, educator, employee, consumer, sports spectator, woman, man, etc.
What if I want to submit a photo, video or audio clip?
For now, link your photo, video or audio clip. Your photo, video or article clip has to be located on the internet. Link the page (URL) where the video, audio is located on the internet. Make sure you describe the photo, video or audio clip. CAUTION: DO NOT POST PORNOGRAPHIC MATERIAL. Submitting a photo, video or audio clip is not the same as having it featured (Note/read: Photo-Image Feature above).
What if what I want to post is not an option in the category scroll down list (first step in "submit story")? The best way to answer this is to give you an example. Let's say you want to comment on violence in U.S. schools, but that subject doesn't seem like a fit for education, simply scroll (step one after clicking on "submit a story") to the general category which is "America." Click on "America" and then click "proceed".
When I'm asked for URL in step two of "submit a story", what does this mean?
The URL is also known as the address bar and reads like this: EX: http://www.blackandbrownnews.com........
If you find the story from another publication or news outlet such as a newspaper, television or radio station or broadcast network, you will have to source that publication or outlet by linking directly to that story. In Step 2 of "Submit a Story" you'll be asked to enter the URL of the story. (Note: the URL/Address Bar that sources your story is typically a long, long line of characters. You are better off cutting/pasting rather than typing the address).
What if I don't have a URL-address bar to reference and I just have a topic?
Then title your story or topic in the field "Story Title," and skip to the "Your Comment" field.
What is the "Your Comment" Field?
It is where you type YOUR comment. Remember there is a 400 word limit for your comment.
What does flagging a story mean?
We hope this feature is not needed. But in the event a member submits spam, offensive or duplicate postings, that submission can be flagged by other members. If a member gets too many flags, BBN will have to remove the member from participating. We really don't want to do that.
Editorial Content Considerations
What if I want to contribute a perspective piece or a feature article for the Front Page? Where can I send it for consideration? If you have a perspective piece or feature article you would like BBN to consider for publication on the Front Page (home page), email it to the editor@blackandbrownnews.com. Include your name, address, phone number, email address and the topic you would like to write about. Also include in the subject line consideration for "Perspective/Article". Perspectives/Articles are limited to 700 words. Keep in mind, BBN is unable to pay for your perspective or article.
What if I have a photograph or image for BBN's "Photo-Image Feature" I want considered?
If you have a compelling photograph or image you would like BBN to consider posting for our "Photo-Image Feature" on our Front Page (Home page), email it to editor@blackandbrownnews.com. Also include in the subject line consideration for "Photo-Image Feature". Include your name, address, phone number, email address and a description of the photo or image. The size limitation is 785 x 250 pixels. Keep in mind, BBN is unable to pay for your photo or image.
Please participate and enjoy BlackandBrownNews.com. Your voice and perspective is needed in the world!