Ever wonder how certain missing persons get more coverage than the other?
Well some of this is due in part to social networking websites such as Twitter and Facebook. But lately, Twitter has become the easiest and most simple way to get the word out. Today Twitter has 10+ million active user and many of those users use Twitter to send quick 140 characters to “tweet” about a missing person.
Lately, one of the most popular missing person tweeted was Chelsea King. Because of Twitter, the King family were able to get 900+ followers and more than 70,000 followers on Facebook to help join in the search for Chelsea. All it took was a quick sign up, an appealing profile picture and message, and loyal followers to help get the word out.
But for someone who is technologically challenged, it isn’t as simple as that. What is retweeting? What is a hashtag? Why do people do this “@” sign? How can I get out my message out effectively using only 140 characters?
A short but easy to follow book called “The Twitter Book” by Tim O’Reilly and Sarah Milstein explains it all. Whether you are a beginner or a master, this book tells you everything you need to know about how to get started and be successful at tweeting.
For a family of a missing person, this book can be a lifesaver. For a follower of Black and Missing but not Forgotten, it’s yours for free. I am giving away this book ($19.99 value) to one lucky reader on Tuesday, March 16, 2010.
Here’s what you need to do:
1. In the comments of this post, please provide your name and a valid email address for contacting the winner.
2. Answer this question: Name one recently missing black person and a brief description of their disappearance. The description can be a few sentences or just a link to an article.
3. Bonus Points: Invite someone to fan us on Facebook follow us on Twitter. Let us know who you invited by commenting on our wall (FB) or sending us a direct message (Twitter).
This giveaway will serve two purposes: To provide the lucky reader or lucky family with the help they need to get the word out on Twitter and to show others how many of us are still missing and in desperate need of attention. Good luck! Contest ends March 16, 2010 at 12 noon!
