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November is traditionally a month where we give thanks; reflecting on the past year and counting our blessings. Many of us, myself included, can say, "I'm thankful for my health"—a true blessing not to be taken for granted.
Over the past ten years, this month of thanks has also become a month focused on building awareness for just that: health. Well, men's health in particular, that is, with the Movember Movement.
Haven't heard of it? Like many movements nowadays, this one lives—and spreads—mostly through social media through the use of hashtags (#Movember, #Movember2014) and photos of men growing out their facial hair (mostly moustaches, thus the "Mo" in Movember) in the month of November to raise awareness for men's health issues.
It was born in Australia in 2003 with just 30 participants—what the Movember Foundation calls "Mo Bros"—then grew (no pun intended) to 4 million Mos by 2013. Movember, through the power of the moustache and any facial hair for that matter, has become a truly global movement that is changing the face of men's health (pun intended).
Not only does the transformation of men to Mo Bros spark conversations about men's health, but the movement also raises funds for prostate cancer programs, testicular cancer programs, and mental health programs.
This year, the League decided to jump on board by both participating (myself, Business Consultant John Hendery, and our fall intern Austin Rigby have put down our razors for the month) and challenging our member credit unions to get in on the fun and help spark conversation.
At the end of October, the League announced that we would donate $10 per participant to the cause. Then, for every day each participant went unshaven between November 1st and November 30th, the League would donate $1 to the Movember Movement. That's $40 per participant!
We've had a total of 25 participants from credit unions throughout New Jersey (something we at the League are thankful for): 12 from Affinity FCU (six on Team Joe and six on Team John, who also headed up their own fundraising); four from Aspire FCU (including President/CEO Tom O'Shea); Essex County Teachers FCU President/CEO and NJCUL Board member Bob Steeves; Garden Savings FCU President/CEO Lou Vetere, Chief Sales Officer Mike Powers, and COO Nick Biason; myself, John Hendery, and Austin Rigby from the League; Rutgers FCU Board Chairman Gordon Stankavage; and Symbionce VP of Mortgage Operations Stephen DiGioia.
Phew, that was a mouthful.
If all of the NJ CU Mo Bros remain unshaven until the 30th, that means $1,000 from the League will be donated to the cause.
If you'd like to see the progress of these Mo Bros, visit the League's Facebook page. These gentlemen have been kind enough to share photos of their growth throughout the month.
Thank you all for participating, having fun with us, and helping to raise awareness!
As Thanksgiving weekend and the final days on Movember coincide next week, I encourage all to reflect on the things for which we are MOst thankful and also bring awareness to issues that matter MOst.
With the mid-term elections less than two weeks away, it seems timely to review how we decide things political here at the League.
In my nine years with the League, we've never formally "endorsed" a candidate, even when a strong credit union supporter has asked. We do, however, provide campaigns with financial support through the Credit Union Legislative Action Council (CULAC) and publish lawmaker scorecards so our member credit unions know where their lawmakers stand on various issues of concern.
Support decisions are taken very seriously, with substantial deliberation and collective judgment. The primary criteria have always been whether and how strongly a candidate understands and supports credit unions.
This is outlined in CULAC's by-laws and pledged to CULAC donors who voluntarily contribute personal funds to support pro-credit union candidates. Interestingly enough, and only coincidently, CULAC support appears essentially bipartisan when tallied nationally. That's not the strategy but rather a result of a "bottom-up", issue-based strategy.
CULAC's goal is to support the best candidate for credit unions, without regard to party, in each individual race.
CULAC's support decisions are made on a district-by-district basis, jointly with the relevant state league. This "bottom-up" decision-making results in what at a quick glance might look like wildly disparate ideological support. For example, CULAC's support in U.S. Senate races has ranged from Vermont's independent (and self-described "democratic socialist") Bernie Sanders on the left to Tea Party Republican Rand Paul from Kentucky on the right. Sanders and Paul agree on next to nothing, but are both staunch credit union allies as evidenced by their support for our tax exemption.
So while the end result might be that our support in total, spread across all districts, works out to an almost exact bipartisan split, that's essentially a coincidence and reflects the current level of bipartisan support for credit unions in Congress.
CUNA and the state leagues' goal is to identify and engage on behalf of the strongest candidate for credit unions in that race. The bottom line is that we should always line up with solid credit union supporters regardless of whether it results in heavy Democrat support, heavy Republican support, or bipartisan support depending on the candidates in any given year.
It is also worth pointing out that every legislative issue is different, and often viewed differently through the prism of party affiliation. We've seen greater support on issues such as bankruptcy reform, reducing regulatory burden, etc. from Republicans, while on issues like MBL reform our support has been strongest on the Democrat side (in the Senate at least; it's more bipartisan in the House). And then there are issues that don't cut along partisan lines at all, most notably interchange, which saw us draw support from both sides of the aisle.
Ultimately, we have to find our support where we can, and support those who are supportive of credit unions.
Finally, similar to those annoying broadcast advertisements for the latest, greatest car deals, I have to add the following disclosures so we don't find ourselves in hot water. Contributions to CULAC are strictly voluntary, must be from personal funds, are not tax deductible, and are used for political purposes. Corporate contributions are prohibited. Contributors will not be favored in any way for their participation nor will non-contributors be disadvantaged for their decision not to participate.
Late yesterday, we heard that the NCUA will propose a revised risk-based capital (RBC) rule to be issued with a new comment period. I believe this calls for a few pats on the back all around the room.
First, to all of you who stepped up to the plate with comprehensive and thoughtful comment letters to the NCUA on the proposed rule, by attending a listening session to voice your concerns, or by delivering your message through other advocacy channels…well done.
Next, to Chairman Matz, for recognizing that the proposed rule needs significant revision, which will ultimately affect the rule's structure to the extent that a new comment period will be necessary.
And, to Vice Chairman Metsger, for openly discussing the need for an implementation period of up to three years and a better approach to managing Interest Rate Risk. On IRR, he specifically stated, "I believe interest rate risk is important and must be addressed in the risk-based capital rule, but it should be addressed separately from credit risk. Weighting credit risk and interest rate risk with a single numerical value created conflicts that ultimately made it difficult to accurately weigh the risk of either."
New NCUA Board member J. Mark McWatters' comments, in a separate statement, are an early indication of his willingness to take a strong stand on such issues in a transparent manner. Importantly, he recognized the collective voice of credit unions, along with the involvement of Congress in his comments: "I am pleased that the Chairman has agreed to a new comment period for the proposed risk-based capital rules. As I stated last week, I will not consider the rules for adoption unless they are re-proposed with a robust comment period of not less than 60 to 90 days. I articulated this position out of respect for Congress and those members of the credit union community who have enthusiastically voiced their opposition to the proposed rules.
And although it's not always wise to pat oneself on the back, I must say the work of the Leagues in activating a grassroots response to this rule throughout the country was quite significant. Through our confederated system, we worked closely with CUNA to align our efforts with their persistent advocacy, which was strongly backed by their in-depth research and analysis.
In McWatters' statement, he added that: "…the previously proposed risk-based capital rules are deeply flawed and merit substantial revision. The devil is in the details, and I await the details before I can pass judgment on the next draft of the proposed rules."
Considering the now universally acknowledged position that this rule is so severely flawed that revisions will trigger a new comment period based on the parameters of the Administrative Procedures Act, I would suggest there should be consideration of a completely new rule. One developed utilizing a significantly broader set of resources than in the previous process including, of course, the expansive comments brought forth through the previous comment period, the NCUA's own RBC Practitioners Council, and continued dialogue with CUNA, Leagues, and other trade associations.
The fact that the NCUA is saying this is a new comment period, as opposed to a second comment period, leads me to believe that this may be the intent. If so, that would call for a seemingly appropriate, additional pat on the back.
This morning, an article in the Washington Post titled "Wal-Mart teams with Green Dot on checking account" caught my eye. The content is not surprising, as we all know the ambitions of the major retailers and the United States Postal Service when it comes to expansion in the financial services arena.
Their talking points are similar across the spectrum: There are many unbanked or under-banked souls out there who need these entities to step up and fill a void that traditional financial services providers are not; there is convenience in the number of physical locations these players bring to the market; they have created a financial model that is more consumer friendly than what is already available.
Again, nothing new here in that these are the same arguments that have been made for years and will continue to be made going forward. We all know the counter-points to these statements and we know that credit unions, through their not-for-profit structure and community focus, can and do offer convenient financial services to the un- and under-banked in a purposeful, socially conscious manner.
The issue at hand is the size of the bullhorn organizations like Wal-Mart and the USPS have to get that message out. The same can be said for the big banks that often deliver a similar message as these non-traditional entrants when it comes to convenience and service. In many cases, the very things they are promoting are exactly the same (home banking services, remote deposit capture, purchase protection on credit card transactions, no fee checking, 0% APR on balance transfers) as offered by many credit unions.
And as for convenience...credit unions boast more than 5,000 branch locations and over 2,000 kiosks nationwide in the credit union-owned CO-OP Shared Branching network, equating to the fourth largest financial institution branch presence in the United States, (October 2012 comparison based on claims located at fdic.gov). The CO-OP ATM network, offered to participating credit unions' members surcharge-free, is larger than the networks offered by big banks such as Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo. (September 10, 2012 comparison based on claims located at bankofamerica.com, chase.com and wellsfargo.com).
In New Jersey alone, there are 62 Shared Branch locations offered through membership in one of 34 participating credit unions and 679 CO-OP Network-branded ATMs.
This is not a new discussion. We have acknowledged the need to combine our resources and hone our focus on a common brand and integrated marketing approach. With few exceptions, credit unions cannot go it alone and effectively get their individual message out to the masses.
Here in New Jersey the Banking You Can Trust program was launched to serve this purpose and has been increasingly successful in getting the credit union message out to consumers. Through billboard campaigns, television and radio spots, event participation, sponsorships, social media, and community involvement, we have grown activity on the bankingyoucantrust.com Web site. But our bullhorn needs to be bigger.
There are some good-sized credit union bullhorns in other states, and in those states credit unions realize greater consumer awareness and share of market. While the expensive media market in which we live presents a challenge in itself, the economic lag in New Jersey continues to put pressure on credit unions' bottom lines and makes financial participation in the program understandably difficult for many credit unions. That being said, we will never compete in the share of mind battle with large retailers and other new market entrants if we don't raise our collective voice through a bigger bullhorn.
If you are not already participating in the Banking You Can Trust campaign, I ask that you give it thought. The more we work together on this initiative, the better we will be collectively.
On a separate note, I want to express my gratitude to the team here at the New Jersey Credit Union League for their excellent work on our, just-completed, 80th Annual Meeting and Convention in Atlantic City. The comments I heard from those of you who attended were exceptionally positive and that is a reflection on the attention to detail and the hard work of the League staff.
I also thank the many of you who attended to make the event a success. Without you, the credit union professionals and leaders of New Jersey, the industry partners and supporters, the top-shelf speakers and special guests, including New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Kim Guadagno, our efforts here would be for naught.
Thank you for making the New Jersey Credit Union League 80 Years Strong.
In my previous blog post, "Time for a seat at the Fed table," I made what I feel is a compelling statement as to why the time is right for credit unions to pursue representation on the Federal Reserve Board of Governors. I was pleased to see a number of shares and retweets of the post on social media, including some well-known figures from the credit union industry. I have also had some conversations with individuals who support this idea and agree that we must act swiftly if we are to capitalize on this opportunity.
We at the New Jersey Credit Union League are doing our homework with regards to process and procedure when it comes to identifying and presenting interested candidates for consideration. Understanding that there is curiosity as to the specifics of the role of the Board of Governors, I share the following link from the Federal Reserve's Web site: www.federalreserve.gov/faqs/about_12591.htm.
While perusing the Web site, I also found an interesting nugget in that within the "Benefits" section of the "Careers" tab, there is a bullet that lists "credit union offices for your banking needs." Yes, this is indeed a benefit and it is good to see that the Federal Reserve recognizes this. In the same sense, it is my hope that there is recognition of the benefit of looking to credit unions for the community financial institution perspective lawmakers have indicated they desire on the board.
This is an opportunity for credit unions to increase our visibility in federal government in a new way. With two seats open, what better time for us to press the issue?
Recently I posted a message on social media with the hashtag, #FedSeat4CUs. All credit unions and credit union supporters are urged to use this hashtag to express the need for a credit union seat on the Federal Reserve Board. With our time limited, this is one way in which we can increase momentum in what has shown to be an effective grassroots fashion.
Should you be interested in pursuing this opportunity or know of someone we should reach out to in this regard here in New Jersey, email me at firstname.lastname@example.com. We will work with you to provide the resources and direction necessary to garner consideration.
I read with interest, the August 8th column by Kate Davidson of Politico titled "White House struggles to fill Fed small-bank spot". The basis of the piece is that after Sarah Bloom, a former Maryland banking regulator now at the Treasury Department, and Elizabeth Duke, a longtime Virginia banker, left the Federal Reserve Board, the White House has had difficulty finding candidates to fill the vacated spots. For varying reasons, including the need to divest their interest in the family banks they run, at least some of those who have been considered from the community bank sector have declined.
Another key piece and the driving force of relevance for credit unions, is that lawmakers have been pressing the administration to nominate candidates with community banking experience. I think that presents an opportunity that should be pursued.
In the column, current or past chairmen/CEOs are listed from community banks ranging in assets of $152 million up to $1 billion. If that is the range in which the White House feels comfortable, credit unions are well versed with nearly 1,000 institutions in that demographic (there are roughly 3,000 banks in that range). From there, credit unions skew even more local, with a far greater number of institutions under the $152 million mark. If the Fed needs a "community" financial institution perspective, what better voice for that than credit unions?
The credit union representative, in addition to being a Main Street voice, would also provide a consumer perspective to the Fed's deliberations. As member cooperatives, credit unions have long been committed to providing financial services that benefit the communities and individuals they serve. It is this consumer-centric approach that would seemingly add the perspective lawmakers are pursuing for the board.
There is also merit in adding a credit union voice to the Federal Reserve Board to work towards an element of proportional balance. Financial institutions of all charter types should have representation and the bank perspective is already present in the person of at least four current Fed governors.
The clock is ticking, however, as there is a push to identify candidates for confirmation before year-end. There appears to be an opportunity here. Let's work together to identify and encourage qualified candidates so that we can capitalize and get credit unions a seat at the table.
If given the choice, would you prefer to be a member or a number? If you belong to a credit union, you probably understand that the value proposition of membership outweighs the "number" status associated with simply being a customer.
For 80 years, the New Jersey Credit Union League has supported credit unions in the Garden State. We've been proud to represent our affiliates and provide them with resources to better serve you, the consumers of our state. Here, in the communities surrounding the world's top financial center, consumers have continually sought alternatives to big banks. Over the years, millions of New Jerseyans have made the decision to choose a credit union because we've made collaborative banking a success while offering first-rate member service and savings. But none of that would be possible today if it wasn't for the work done in 1934.
The foundation for a strong credit union movement was set 80 years ago, on June 26, 1934, when President Franklin Roosevelt signed the Federal Credit Union Act into law, permitting credit unions to be formed across the country. Since that day, credit unions have developed considerably. Through the years, we've grown in membership as we've broadened our services to meet the needs of our members, from mortgage lending to education loans to digital banking.
Today, nearly 100 million people nationwide choose to be members of credit unions, with over 1 million here in New Jersey. Our state has over 190 independent, consumer-owned, volunteer-led, democratically controlled credit unions here to serve you.
As not-for-profit financial institutions, credit unions strive to be your best financial partner. In addition to values-based decision making focused on the communities and members they serve, credit unions return financial benefits directly to their members with higher returns on savings, lower rates on loans, and fewer, lower fees. Bank customers benefit too, as the presence of credit unions drives down loan rates, pushes up savings rates and influences fees. In fact, New Jersey consumers realized financial benefits of more than $47 million dollars in 2013.
We believe a key reason credit unions are your best financial partner is because we listen to the needs and interests of our growing membership by fostering service excellence. With services such as online banking, shared ATM access (the largest single ATM network in the country), and the growing number of convenient branch locations – and "shared branches" among credit unions – and dedication to competitive rates, credit unions' top priorities are centered on those they serve, not in driving profits for a small group of shareholders. As a matter of fact, The American Consumer Satisfaction Index for credit unions is 85, compared to 73 for banks. We're proud to note that in the most recent survey, credit unions were tied for the best Customer Satisfaction Benchmark among all 43 industries reviewed.
We also believe it's important to remove the barriers that exist to service, and we encourage members who are interested to become engaged on issues that are important to them. Members have stood with and come to the defense of their credit unions through strong grassroots support on many occasions over our 80 years. We believe it's important that our elected officials hear from those who benefit from credit union membership and, as the state association for New Jersey's credit unions, we continually work to foster open-door policies at the congressional level as well as with federal and state regulators.
As we move forward, it's essential to look back and remember why credit unions were created. Credit unions are cooperatives that were developed to promote thrift among the American people – bound together by a common set of business principles and values. Volunteer leadership. Democratic control. Economic participation. Autonomy and independence. Member education. Cooperation among cooperatives. Concern for community.
Credit unions are living up to those business principles and values. At the New Jersey Credit Union League, we will continue to be a voice for credit unions and deliver cooperative services that facilitate their growth. Together, we will remain steadfast in our efforts to put members first here in the state of New Jersey.
In the midst of two of the most serious threats in recent memory to credit unions' ability to fully serve their members, it seems timely to revisit the League's participation in CUNA's Plan to Win, A 435 Seat Strategy.
CUNA launched the Plan to Win in 2012 because banker opposition and overall Capitol Hill gridlock continued to stall some of our legislative initiatives. Little more than a year into the program, its importance became strikingly clear first when the credit union tax exemption came under threat, and a year later when NCUA unveiled its onerous risk-based capital (RBC) proposal.
What started as a proactive, offensive plan almost immediately demonstrated its value as a crucial defensive tool as well.
So what is the Plan to Win, A 435 Seat Strategy?
Simply put, it's a set of advocacy goals, or vital steps, to ensure that every member credit union meets its collective responsibility to the credit union movement, so together we're able to move lawmakers to where they "can't say no" to credit unions."
Let's face it; we'll never be able to compete with the deep pockets of bankers. But we have something bankers don't, a committed constituency, the breadth and depth of which is the envy of every bank lobbyist. Our strength is in our numbers. Sure, bank customers outnumber credit union members, but how many bank customers actually like their bank, or more importantly, will take time to defend their bank to law and policy makers?
That's why we regularly communicate to state and federal lawmakers the size of their credit union constituency. But the numbers alone are not enough. Lawmakers have to hear from those constituents. Otherwise we run the risk of being viewed as a paper tiger.
We got the message across when it came to municipal deposit reform with 5,000 postcards to Assembly members and 5,000 postcards to Governor Christie. Last year we got the "Don't Tax My Credit Union" message through with 5,000 postcards to targeted members of New Jersey's congressional delegation and more than 5,100 emails, telephone calls, and Twitter messages to our Capitol Hill lawmakers. Most recently, the system got NCUA's attention with an unprecedented number of RBC comment letters from credit unions and lawmakers.
So how can a credit union ensure it's meeting its collective responsibility? A good place to start is by ensuring its participation in various Plan to Win support components by regularly updating their Project Zip Code (PZC) numbers and ensuring they have an up-to-date Participation Agreement (PA) on file with the League.
PZC is safe, easy to use, and is a critical component of our advocacy program. Some 80 million CU members have already been counted nationwide. It is absolutely essential that we have 100% participation in N.J.
The law requires we receive the permission (PA) of NJCUL member credit unions in order to keep them informed of key CUNA and NJCUL federal political activities. Neither CUNA nor the League will contact any of your members directly, but it's important that credit union professionals and volunteers know about these activities. Credit unions can decide individually whether they want to pass along this information to their members.
These tools are fundamental to communicating the size of, and mobilizing, our grassroots strength. In addition to participating in these vital Plan to Win steps, credit unions must also ensure that, at a minimum, their professionals and volunteers step up to the plate when we issue a Call-to-Action.
Credit unions should also consider participating in one or more of our various advocacy events such as the annual CUNA Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC) in Washington, Capitol Hill visits (Hike-the-Hill), meetings with state and federal lawmakers in their district offices, and Chapter Meetings that host elected officials as guest speakers.
As a cooperative system, each and every credit union has a responsibility not only to its own members, but to the members of every other credit union as well. While many of our credit unions are doing more than their fair share, it's time that all assume responsibility for our mutual success.
Today marks one year on the job here in New Jersey. To answer a question that I'm asked often…yes it seems like a year. Although some days it seems like I've been here much longer, and others not so much. That's good, in my mind. It means that I feel comfortable here and know that we are getting things done, but it also means that I understand that I must continue to discover the distinguishing characteristics of New Jersey and the credit union community we have here.
I am excited as I reach this milestone. We have implemented some new approaches and programs. We have increased our dialogue with you, the affiliates, to identify areas where we can refine and build our processes and deliverables to best suit your diverse needs. There are also a number of initiatives in the hopper that I believe you will find valuable. There is work to be done and in that work is great opportunity.
But today, I want to pause to say "thank you."
Thank you to the fantastic staff here at the New Jersey Credit Union League. This is a high-caliber group of diligent, service-oriented professionals who put your needs first. They are also caring, genuine individuals who have embraced the changes that came along with me. We are a strong team and we continue to grow together.
Thank you to the NJCUL Board of Directors of 2013 & 2014. I am humbled and driven by the confidence you put in me a little over one year ago. I am grateful for the guidance you have given as I have acclimated to New Jersey. As much, I appreciate your straightforward approach, keeping the focus on getting things done for the credit unions of New Jersey.
Thank you to you, the credit unions of New Jersey. You have welcomed me to your state and your community in a way that makes me feel at home. I have had the opportunity to meet many of you over this first year and am thankful for the relationships that have formed and continue to grow throughout the state.
Finally, thank you to my wonderful wife, Stacy, and our children, Bailey, Taliya and Landon. We packed up our lives and moved from the Midwest, first setting foot in New Jersey for this new chapter 366 days ago. I cannot begin to explain what that means to me, but I know that "thank you" is only the tip of the iceberg.
It's been a great year and I look forward to many more.
Thank you.
Sometimes I eat an apple without washing it. I don't have an umbrella readily accessible. I've seen the fuel range indicator drop to dashes. I wear my Milwaukee Brewers T-shirt in New Jersey. That's right…I live on the edge. And that's why I'm going to address the age-old question; what do I get for my dues?
This is not an all-inclusive list, as I don't think it's possible to produce one. Many of the items are lumped into categorical groups, otherwise there would be too much redundancy with subsets and sister offerings across the various disciplines we attend to.
Now, there are levels to the "what's included" question as well. In some cases, affiliates have access to member-only services that may have a cost attached, such as education sessions, credit union-specific options through the Banking You Can Trust campaign, marketing resources, shared compliance staffing, or programs like the Reality and Retirement Fairs offered in partnership with New Jersey Credit Union Foundation.
The next level could be those items that are included in dues that are core to league value, but may not be as tangible as a specific product. For instance, advocacy. Consumer, legislative, and regulatory advocacy are key tenants of what we provide. These, along with political action initiatives, can be measured to some extent, but with many wins coming through staunch defense against rising regulatory burden and attacks from for-profit financial institutions, the understood value is in our united voice as the New Jersey Credit Union Community.
Add to that "included" level other resources and offerings such as the Creative You program, Hike-the-Hill coordination, member-only newsletters and communications, participation in NJ DNA, NJ PLAN, NJ READ and NJCUL Youth Involvement Board meetings and activities, small credit union tools and mentoring programs, a centralized source for sharing of best practices and access to the gamut of offerings provided by the Credit Union National Association (CUNA). I urge you to take advantage these offerings and opportunities.
Next, in the category of Free Stuff… the tangible products that are being provided at no additional cost through your affiliation with NJCUL. These are the things that you should be taking advantage of or at least taking the time to consider:
These are meat and potatoes, as one person here said to me. There are other items, of course. I hope some come to mind as you read this.
So why go out on the edge and broach this subject here…now? Because in my conversations with credit union leaders throughout New Jersey, I continually find that there is a lack of awareness when it comes to many of these benefits of affiliation. While we promote these items in the Daily Exchange, in-person through credit union visits and networking activities, and through direct contact with stakeholders at credit unions, things fall through the cracks.
And this is understandable. Considering the onslaught of day-to-day tasks we all manage, at times we forget that people don't know everything in the same way that we do. Specific to the league, we assume that people know we are here for them, know what we do, and because we send a daily newsletter, that people read every word. Well, not every word, but at least skim for the good stuff! Of course, that's not the case and it's on us to do a better job of ensuring the message is being delivered.
League Director of Marketing and Communications, Candice Nigro, is in the process of preparing a plan to help cut through some of the noise that we know exists within the broad array of communications you receive on a daily basis. As we do, I hope you'll be responsive to our requests for information and, in turn, we'll continue to do whatever we can to be sure the free stuff doesn't fall through the cracks.


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his and hers
Surfboard for him, bodyboard for her, something for everyone.
This photo was shot on film. Taken by lomomowlem with a Lomo LC-A+ Russia Day (available in our Online Shop) loaded with Lomography X-Pro Chrome 100 film in Mawgan Porth, United Kingdom. These tags describe this photo: boogie board, body board, cross, cross process, x-process, x-pro, blue sky, watersports, water, sea, sand, beach, surfing, surfers, and surf. Date: 2012-09. This photo can also be found in the albums x-proSummer.Please login to get more out of this site
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metastable state
metastable state
Excited state (see excitation) of an atom, nucleus, or other system that has a longer lifetime than the ordinary excited states and generally has a shorter lifetime than the ground state. It can be considered a temporary energy trap or a somewhat stable intermediate stage of a system of which the energy may be lost in discrete amounts. The many photochemical reactions of mercury are a result of the metastable state of mercury atoms, and radiation from metastable oxygen atoms accounts for the characteristic green colour of the aurora borealis and aurora australis.
This entry comes from Encyclopædia Britannica Concise.
For the full entry on metastable state, visit Britannica.com.
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September 2013 SPACES
Please reserve your spot here AFTER you get your BFP.
Spaces are reserved for sharing...
1. Something brief about yourself
2. Info about your appointments
3. Pics of your BFP, your growing belly, ultrasounds, nursery shots, etc.
4. Additional pregnancy tickers
5. Anything else you want to share related to your pregnancy (please keep as brief as possible).
Please read the following before posting!
* This is a NO COMMENTS thread. Please post your newest belly pictures to the general threads for comments.
* Once you reserve your "space," edit it each time you post something new. Please DO NOT create a new post for each new picture/piece of info you are posting. Do this by clicking the "edit" button in the bottom right hand corner of your post.
* Because this is already a picture-heavy thread, please turn off your signatures.You can do this by un-checking the "Show your signature" button before your click "submit" to post your message.
* Most importantly, POST PICTURES! We want to see those growing bumps and beautiful babies!
Last edited by daniellec.parker; 04-19-2013 at 11:22 PM.
My name is Danielle and I got my BFP Wednesday January 9, 2013. While we were certainly TTC, this was a total surprise for us. I have PCOS and DH also has a male factor with low morphology. It took us nearly 2 yrs to conceive the first time. After several rounds of Clomid that did nothing, we ended up having 3 IUI's before I got PG with my twins--- who just turned two on Dec 29! We decided this time that we really wanted to try on our own without meds, and met with our RE to talk about it. We've been TTC since October and I've been charting on Fertility Friend. I had an HSG done on Dec 10. We were going to try on our own until April or May before discussing injections and an IUI again.
Because I would like to share why we were surprised, here's my chart for the month: My Ovulation Chart
I had several days with a pos OPK (Relatively common from what I can tell for women with PCOS) Anyway, I ran out of OPKs which is why I stopped testing. Notice that the last day we DTD before "O" was on Dec 22. With the holidays we were busy and didn't have time nor the energy to DTD constantly--- and we were getting ready for Alaina and Aiden's birthday... Since starting to track I've always had a temp dip before O. I had decided that as soon as I saw a temp dip we'd bd and just take our chances. I never had a dip, so when my temp did jump, I thought for sure we had missed it since it had been nearly a week.
I had some spotting and cramps about a week ago and thought for sure AF was coming since my LP has been between 10-12 days. Then the spotting stopped. Two days later my temp dipped again and I thought for sure she would be here that day.... that was Monday. Tuesday it was higher, but I thought it was because I might be catching a cold from Alaina and Aiden. Tuesday night I had a dream that I POAS and it was positive. I woke up and my temp was the highest it had been. So I did POAS but only because I KNEW it would be negative and didn't want to be thinking about the dream all day.
Low and behold, those lines popped up so fast. I actually did a double take to make sure that two lines meant PG. What a surprise Christmas gift!
After having the ultrasound on January 23 and hearing the heartbeat, we decided to go ahead and share the news with our family. I found the idea on the internet to announce the pregnancy with a home made card. I stole the idea because I loved it so much. The front of the card said, "Congratulations Mom and Dad/ Paper for this card... 15 cents/ Printing this card... 50 cents/ Seeing your faces when you open it... Priceless!" The inside said "Danielle's Pregnant!" Then there was a picture of our positive pregnancy test and across the bottom, "Estimated Due Date September 18, 2013." We had a family dinner at my parents' house because my oldest brother just got back from working out of town for several months. My parents' 37th wedding anniversary is coming up next month, so we lead them to believe it was an anniversary card. It's a family tradition to read cards out loud. So while they were reading it, DH recorded it with his phone. It was fun to watch the rate at which they realized what they were looking at. For my mom it was even more of a surprise/present because her birthday is Sept 17. After they read it, we pulled out the ultrasound pictures of our gummy bear and the video we had of the heart beating. They now have a card to remember it by, and we have a video to look back on. It was awesome!
We visited DH's parents and presented them with a copy of the same card a few days later. Just as they were starting to read it, Alaina and Aiden went darting away and I had to run after them. So we missed getting it all on camera. But they were very excited. My MIL started to tear up she was so happy. And my FIL asked if he had heard correctly.
We will let extended family know around 8 weeks, and will probably make it "Facebook Public" after Valentine's Day some time.
April 5
May 3
January 9: 1st beta to confirm pregnancy - 1068! (Twins again?!)
January 11: 2nd beta - 2727!!
January 14: 3rd beta and dating ultrasound - 9030!!! We only saw one sac that measured just shy of 5 weeks. (Could it be identical twins then?)
January 23: 2nd ultrasound - ONE happy, healthy gummy bear with a heart rate of 120 bpm!
February 14: 1st prenatal appointment with my OB. I got to hear my LO's heartbeat again--- one of the best sounds IN THE WORLD! It was a good appointment. My OB and I discussed a VBAC and what all that would mean. She says I'm a good candidate for it, and is happy to do it.
March 15: 2nd prenatal appointment. It took some trying, but we did get to hear our LO's hb again. It was right at 160 bmp. Dr is thinking it's likely we are having a girl, which is what I've been thinking too.
April 5: 3rd prenatal appointment and ultrasound! Great appt. LO was hiding his/her face the placenta for most of the time. We didn't get any good "keeper" pictures, so my OB scheduled another u/s for May 3.
May 3: 4th prenatal appointment and ultrasound! Another Great appt. I have only gained about 8 lbs since pre pg. We did get some good pictures of LO this time. And as it turns out, there were some from last time that the u/s tech had just forgotten to give us.
June 3: 5th prenatal appointment. An okay appointment. Urine and blood pressure are good, but I gained 10 lbs!!! I'm thinking it has to do with the 5 day vacation we took to the beach a few days before. That and the fact that even though the Dr has me at 25 weeks, I measured at 28. Looks like LO had a growth spurt!
June 24: 6th prenatal appointment- Sugar Test. Past! Sugar was 121. I measured at 30 weeks. So still a little ahead of my 28 weeks, but the gap is less than last time. I gained less than a full pound. I had to have been retaining water last time.
July 10: 7th prenatal appointment. Down to every two weeks!
Week 4 (Jan 10-16): I've been constantly hungry for a few days, have noticed the queasy sensation when I've gone too long without eating, and have had a little breast tenderness. And to top it all off, I think I have a sinus infection. We got to see the sac on Jan 14.
Week 5 (Jan 17-23): I've been having vivid dreams pretty much all night, every night. Saturday Jan 19 marked the first time m/s caused me to throw up. Lovely. Still dealing with sinus issues, too. On the upside, we got to see our LO's hb on the 23rd.
Week 6 (Jan 24-30): I had my OB call me in a Rx for Zofran so that I could function at work. Nausea continued, but was bearable. Vivid dreams have also continued.
Week 7 (Jan 31- Feb 6): Dreams and nausea are just a part of everyday. And I've already started to have some round ligament pains. Oh, and I'm already showing! There's no hiding this pregnancy now.
Week 8 (Feb 7- 13): I noticed my boobs have been getting bigger, since they're spilling out of my bras. I had a horrible dream that I miscarried. My belly has gotten even BIGGER. I shared the news with the rest of my family (aunts, uncles, cousins...) and also the rest of my coworkers. (Not like they wouldn't guess by looking at me.)
Week 9 (Feb 14- 20): I had my first prenatal appt with my OB, and got to hear LO's beautiful, strong heartbeat. I was given the go ahead for a VBAC. Yay! We also told our group of closest friends about the pg.
Week 10 (Feb 21- 27): Not really a whole lot has changed. I haven't noticed a lot of belly growth for the past 2 weeks. I think the bloat might finally be gone.
Week 11 (Feb 28- Mar 6): I've started to feel a little better. I'm down to taking only 1-2 nausea pills during the day instead of 3-4.
Week 12 (Mar 7- 13): Still feeling better. I even had a day that I didn't take anything for nausea! Hoping I'm at the tail end of ms.
Week 13 (Mar 14- 20): Had my 2nd prenatal appt with my OB. Such a beautiful heartbeat. Nausea continues to get better. Yay!
Week 14 (Mar 21- 27): I don't think I had to take anything for nausea this week... Perhaps only once.
Week 15 (Mar 28- Apr 3): Only thing to report for my pregnancy is that the frequency of round ligament pains and stretching sensations have increased. On a side note, we moved into our new house over the weekend!
Week 16 (Apr 4- 10): Still going the same. I thought I might have felt the baby move a few times, but whenever I sat still to concentrate on it... nothing.
Week 17 (Apr 11-17): I definitely felt the baby moving all day Friday April 12! DH thinks he felt LO moving on Sunday evening!
Week 18- Week 23 (Apr 18- May 28 ): Nothing really big to report. LO has continued to grow and movement have become stronger. There is no doubt that DH was feeling kicks by the end of Week 19. We had another ultrasound on May 3 and got some good pictures of our LO!
Week 24 (May 29- June 4): Feeling Braxton Hicks for sure. They have been more intense this go around to be sure.
Week 25- Week 27 (June 5- June 26): Growing, growing, growing. I have NEW stretch marks. I didn't think it would be possible to have any more than I did last time. I can tell that this little one has more room to move around than Alaina & Aiden. Movements are ALL OVER the place.
Make a pregnancy ticker
Last edited by daniellec.parker; 09-15-2013 at 06:12 PM.
My name is Carolyn and DH is Derek. We have been together for almost 9 years and married for 4 in June. We have a beautiful DD who just turned two! We love co-sleeping, baby wearing, and breastfeeding! We are super excited to be expecting baby number 2!
Feb. 5- First prenatal appointment/dating ultrasound. Everything looks good! One baby with a heartbeat!
March 15- NT Scan/Appointment Everything is looking great! baby looks healthy and measuring a few days ahead!
April 26 BIG ultrasound! Oh BOY!!!!!!!
May 31: 24 week check up
Make a pregnancy ticker
Last edited by Carolyn B; 04-27-2013 at 11:00 AM.
Miscarried 2/6/13 at 6w3d
Howzit!. My name is Roxi and I'm a South African living in New York City with DH and Furbaby Crazy Dog. We have been living in the US for almost 4 years (on Feb 4th). This journey is one that I've been waiting on for 8 years.
And it is now finally here!
DH and I have been together for just over 8 years, married for 4. Unfortunately there have been a few things that got in the way of us embarking on this journey: amongst other things I had undiagnosed Bipolar Disorder which then needed to be controlled, we moved from South Africa to the US, and not least DH was (finally) diagnosed with a Chiari Malformation. DH's condition has impacted our lives greatly, especially since he is unable to do most of the physical activities that a DH would normally do. While this might make for a slightly more difficult pregnancy (particularly in the 3rd trimester) so far we have managed to cope as best we can.
We finally crested all of the obstacles that were standing in our way and began to TTC in December 2012. And for the first time in 5 years Lady Luck was on our side...... NAILED IT (pun intended) first time! I had no hope that we would catch the eggie this first cycle firstly because I have a history of endometriosis which had recently reared its ugly symptoms, and secondly because about 10 days into it I received news that a mole I had removed and biopsied had been found to be a melanoma. I had to have a larger area removed which required 6 stitches. The stitches put a halt to any ideas of DTD for the rest of that month.
I started to get antsy when the usual hints heralding Flo's arrival never showed; and then Flo herself didn't show. On Monday Jan 14 I decided to POAS in the hope that she would show up after I saw the BFP and relaxed. Imagine my surprise when that first digital test show an indisputable YES+. But then I noticed that this test had expired on 11/2012 so I took another one and VOILA! 2 lines!
Week 4 (1/14-1/20): No symptoms except for extreme exhaustion which is now easing. Still not 100% sure that this is real... UPDATE: so the exhaustion has returned. I don't know how I"m going to find the energy to study also feel like I need to eat all the time but at the same time I feel so bloated that I don't really want to eat. I'm not starving or craving, just hungry.
Week 5 (1/21-1/27): Still feeling great. Exhaustion comes and goes. My bb's have been tender on and off but nothing horrendous - thankfully it doesn't get worse when touched so I'm still comfortable in bras and clothing. They do seem to be a little fuller/heavier than usual but not obviously so.
Week 5b (1/27-2/2): so Doc changed my GA based on Baby M's measurements on the u/s. Still symptom free Boobs are growing steadily (which I'm thrilled about because I've always thought they were too small). I had to go get some wirefree bras because the underwired ones were starting to pinch (I may never go back to wired bras!)
1/18/13: going to meet Dr Wind for the first time for my first prenatal appointment
still no visible change in the belly photos
- too early to see the sac but Doc didn't seem to be worried about anything. Blood drawn for full pregnancy panel. If I don't hear anything, then everything is fine. Here's to hoping for silence!
2/4/13: 2nd appt at approx. 7 weeks: we should be able to see the sac and get the pregnancy dated. Maybe even see/hear the heartbeat. DH is going to come with.
- we got to see the heartbeat AND hear it!! It's feeling real now
Baby M is measuring 0.38cm which puts us at GA 6weeks, not the 7 calculated from my LMP. EDD is now 9/29/13.
Doc also found that I have the Hemoglobin C trait which means I'm a carrier of the disease but I'm asymptomatic. DH had to have blood drawn to check his status because if he has the trait too then we need to have the baby tested at some stage..
2/4/13 | GA from LMP: 7 weeks | GA from measurements: 6 weeks 1 day
Last edited by BokkieNYC; 04-13-2013 at 10:55 AM.
I'm 28, soon to be 29 years old and am pregnant with my forth pregnancy, hopefully my last one. I have one child already, a 3 year old princess. My two previous miscarriages happened around six weeks, so I'm holding my breath until then.
Jan.30th at 11am
My positive line!
Last edited by maedae84; 01-29-2013 at 11:56 PM. Reason: changing docs appointment


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Survey Shows States Aggressively Fighting Underage Drinking
Associated Press
WASHINGTON, Feb. 13 /U.S. Newswire/ - A survey released today shows that states are aggressively targeting one of the most significant highway safety challenges - underage drinking. The report, published by the National Association of Governors Highway Safety Representatives (NAGHSR), includes responses from 39 state highway safety offices. The survey details information on the work of statewide coalitions, the education and enforcement programs that are conducted and the types of data gathered to determine the nature and extent of the underage drinking problem.
The report concludes that states' efforts to reduce underage drinking have been successful as evidenced by: increased public awareness of the problem, greater cooperation among state and local organizations, decreases in alcohol use and alcohol-related vehicle crashes and the injuries and fatalities they cause. Statistics prove this success. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the fatality rate in 2000 was the lowest ever recorded at nine fatalities per 100,000 youth. NAGHSR Chair Marsha Lembke says that, "The states have made much progress in the area of underage drinking prevention efforts through a combination of educational and enforcement activities, but more work must be done."
Lembke is pleased that states are on the right track, but cautions that a variety of external factors are going to make the challenge of reducing underage drinking even greater. Lembke cites a looming proposed federal tax cut on beer prices as well as increased alcohol advertising on television as potential roadblocks to further progress. "By themselves, these factors may not seem so significant, but combined they are going to make our jobs even harder." NAGHSR joined Mothers Against Drunk Driving late last year in urging Congress to reject industry efforts to lower the beer tax (see news release at www.statehighwaysafety.org). NAGHSR has also expressed concern that NBC has ended a long-standing ban on liquor advertising. The Association fears underage drinkers may be exposed to these ads. Lembke says, "I'm very concerned that some of these ads may be airing at times when a large number of young viewers are watching such as during major sporting events like the Winter Olympics."
"Survey of the States: Underage Drinking Prevention" breaks down state efforts into three categories: prevention/education activities, college programs and enforcement.
Prevention/Education Activities
- Fourteen states conduct youth forums, summits or conferences such as the "Get a Grip" conference in Iowa and "Take A Stand" in Kansas.
- Nineteen states distribute printed information or videos on underage drinking, six states produce public service announcements and three states (Mississippi, Utah and Washington) make extensive use of radio to get out the message on the dangers of underage drinking
College Programs
- Over 30 states have identified the college/university community as a special target audience.
- Six states have developed special programs or campaigns such as "Designated Drivers do it for Friends" in Louisiana and "Operation Safe Fall" in Rhode Island.
- Twenty-five states conduct compliance checks to insure liquor licensees are obeying the law and 23 states conduct "Cops in Shops" programs where police officers are stationed in liquor outlets to apprehend underage youth who attempt to purchase alcohol.
- Eight states have some type of party patrol program that apprehends youth who are drinking illegally at a party and four states have a toll-free tip line.
- States have customized enforcement efforts to meet their unique needs and challenges. In California, the state has targeted youth who travel into Mexico because the drinking age is 18. Hawaii has a program to address rave parties and in Mississippi, personnel conduct court monitoring.
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Ticket or Click It: What's New On Demand?
This week, "Ticket or Click It" takes a look at the newest movies available on XFINITY On Demand.
This week, "Ticket or Click It" takes a look at the newest movies available on XFINITY On Demand.
Joseph Gordon-Levitt has quite a filmography: from "Inception," to "50/50," to "The Dark Knight Rises." Now, he may be taking on his greatest acting challenge yet: Bruce Willis. Gordon-Levitt stars… More
This weekend, Emily Blunt and Jason Segel star in the romantic comedy "The Five-Year Engagement." Is it your best bet for movie entertainment this week? Find out after the jump.
"The Muppets" has arrived on XFINITY On Demand. We caught up with Kermit the Frog for a brief chat about Muppet equality, skeletons in the closet and Tom Hanks.
Today, "The Muppets" debuts on XFINITY On Demand. In celebration, I caught up with the Muppets' resident diva for a poignant conversation about fashion, politics and lunch.
This weekend, "John Carter" brings a 100-year-old sci-fi story to theaters. Is it the world's next "Star Wars"? Check out your best movie bets after the jump.
"Salmon Fishing in the Yemen" star Emily Blunt dishes on noodling, Ewan McGregor's charm and how she taught a British accent. Check out the interview after the jump.
Your hub for all the personal finance news that affects you and your family.
A blog about health, food, beauty, fitness, fashion, parenting and travel focused on how we, as individuals and as a society live our lives.
A blog keeping you up to date on the most popular news across the web.
An up-to-the-minute blog covering celebrities, gossip and entertainment news.
Covering the latest news, opinions and analysis across the world of sports.
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A blog about movie news, movie stars, movie premieres and the business of the big screen.
About music, artists and the news that envelops the industry.


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Adoption Center Hours
Tue-Sat noon - 5 pm
Thursday noon - 6 pm
"Just want to let you guys know that Rudolph seems to be doing well. He seems to be getting more relaxed and comfy each day. I am getting him into the habit of going on a walk every afternoon after the puppy's outing. I'm hoping once Rudolph gets more comfortable in the neighborhood (the cars on the street make him a bit nervous right now) I can take him and the pup out together. The neighborhood kids like petting him when we are out and he enjoys it too. And him and the dog are quite a pair. He muscles in on the water dish and her bed then she comes to me to tattling. Wimpy dog won't tell him to move it! And when I come home in the evenings they both come to greet me together. It's sooooo cute They really seem to like each other's company. I think he is turning into a settled happy little cat! Here are a few pics of him and the two relaxing after their exercise and meals!" - 3/16/2014
"Hi! Just wanted to send ya a couple more pix and to let ya know Rudolph is doing great. He likes to hang out on the back of the couch and look out the window, or just lounge around. He likes his walks and socializing with the neighbors in my complex. He sleeps on my shoulder at night time or snuggles up to my head. He sleeps fine but I don't hahaha. It's great having him as part of the fam bam. I love this not so little guy soooo much. Him and the dog even are playing together and he lets my pup give him kisses. They also eat together. It's really cute. What's funny though is if the dog drinks out of his dish he gets upset and makes me change the water! Here are a couple more pix. Have a great day!" - 4/20/2014
Brooke is doing absolutely wonderful! We are madly in love with her! She is beautiful and lots of fun. She is getting along very well with the other cats. Her and Reese have become quite close! Her and Poindexter, our resident brat cat, get along great! We have two cat beds in front of the back window and they both will lay there together looking out at the birds and squirrels. Brooke is eating good, playing and she is just an absolute pleasure! She reminds me so much of our Little Bob who died in December at age 17 from diabetes and I just know in my heart that he sent her to us! She lays on Little Bob's blanket next to the computer when I am working, just like he did! For some reason, she has decided her place is on the flat top stove so she is posing there quite often. No worries, it is an induction stove and will not come on without the proper pan on it!!! Everyone who has met her thinks she is absolutely beautiful!
I tell people all the time how wonderful Simply Cats is. It makes me feel good that if a cat is unfortunate enough to lose their current home, if they are taken in at Simply Cats, they are in great hands until they are adopted and they will go to a great home because you guys take great pride in making sure they are never adopted by "moment people" who think they want a cat but really do not, plus going to a home that works out for them.
We took Brooke to our vet on May 19th to get her booster shots that she was due for and she got to meet her namesake, the vet tech we named her after because she loved our Little Bob so much and he loved her. She did great in the car in her carrier on the trip there and she was very good at the vet. She didn't cry and let them examine her and give her the shot, and even check her temperature, which no cat ever likes, and she didn't make a sound! They loved her!
Bob and I are still going to buy a brick in memory of our precious Little Bob. We just haven't gotten around to taking care of it yet. And, of course, we will be coming in some day to buy a cat stand for all the kitties, possibly one that goes to the ceiling as our Little Brooke likes to jump up high!
Thanks for checking in! I'll send some pictures later. Brooke is in her forever home and we love her very, very much!
Donna & Bob
Just wanted to share that Carnation has adapted well and is very comfortable in her new house. She so funny, when one of us is showering she hates not being in there and she sits outside the door and meows until we come out, we love her.
Thanks, Jan
You helped us the day after Christmas when we came in looking for a cat and I just thought I'd update you and send you a few photos.
We adopted Freckles, and kept her name. She is a DOLL! So sweet and loving and her tiny little meows are so cute! She absolutely cracks us up when she lays with her legs out flat. I call it her 'yoga pose'. As I had mentioned when there - I had a cat that I had recently lost who was 17.5 years old and she was my baby. I waited quite a few months before I thought I could open my heart again - as losing her was so difficult. Freckles has helped so much!! My sweet girl (Cecily) was a feral cat, and never really warmed up to anyone except me, the love my husband got from her was well earned, even after the years we were together as a family. Freckles has taken to both of us really well, and she has quickly turned into a Daddy's girl, which I know makes my husband very happy. (I'm only slightly jealous -LOL) She will drag her fishing pole toy out into the middle of the room when she wants to play, and we oblige right away! She is a darling and we already can't imagine life without her.
The work you all do there is awesome. I loved SimplyCats even before I ever visited - just for what it is. After I lost Cecily, it was so helpful to go and visit the cats and just give loves to the beautiful cats and enjoy their company. Since adopting Freckles I have a whole new view of the facility - we are so lucky to have something like this in Boise. I will always be a fan and supporter! Thank you for our new addition - she is a gem.
Julie & Ron C.
I have an update on a cat I adopted back in July! I took home Belvedere, but have since given him a new name, Cooper! Cooper has adjusted to his new home quite well and I am so happy he is my fur child. He is so energetic and full of life! Thank you so much Simply Cats for introducing me to my four legged best friend! :)
Hello my name is Natalie Britan and I adopted Judy Garland from Simply Cats last saturday from room 4. I have changed her name to Gracie. I just wanted to let yall know she is doing great and adjusting well. Her and my dog Toby are already best friends :) thankyou for allowing me to adopt her. She has completed our family!
Thanks again!
Natalie, Gracie, and Toby
I just thought I'd let you know how Bellflower is doing after her first few days with us. My husband and I can't believe no one adopted this sweet little girl sooner. She is such a mellow and laid back cat. We kept her in our bedroom with us the first night. She figured out where the litter box and food were, sniffed everything for about 10 minutes, then proceeded to find a nice spot on the foot of the bed and slept there all night. She starts purring the second you pet her.
I've also never had such a quick introductions between new kitties. Our younger cat Luna is already loving on her (Luna likes to groom everyone) which Bellflower doesn't seem to mind. We are still keeping her separate from our older more cantankerous cat Sasha because she's not a big fan of other cats, but even meeting through a closed door, Sasha just hissed a little. Hopefully that introduction will continue to go smoothly.
We've also discovered that although Bellflower (or Bell-bell as I've already started calling her) loves the horizontal scratchers. We've got one in the living room that she's claimed as her own. She loves to lay on it (and scratch it of course). I've had many cats own me in my life, and I don't think I've ever seen one adapt so quickly. We are just in love with this little sweetheart and we are lucky to have her.
Thanks for taking such good care of her!
Mary Howe
I just wanted to give you an update on Gatsby, renamed Hapuna but better known as King Kong. He looks like a silverback gorilla next to my little chocolate point girl. The two of them are getting along nicely. They even groom each other! Hapuna now goes outside for short jaunts. I am pleased with the adoption, he is a great cat. Probably should have named him Lucky or Lotto!
Hello New Friends at Simply Cats,
Just a brief note to let you know that Kirby is fitting into our family nicely. On Dec 24th our dear, sweet cat, Velcro, died of a blood clot in his brain. My husband and I brought him home as an infant cat, separated from his mother prematurely because of rejection and we bottle fed him and cared for him while we grew as a couple and family. We now have 2 children and Velcro was just part of our family. He was 15 when he passed.
In January we started to really miss him and that feeling you get when a cat jumps up on you and just loves on you. So we started to cautiously look around at shelters. We knew we wanted a rescue cat. Simply Cats was the perfect place for us. We had come into the shelter 3 times after viewing Kirby online and sat with him and visited. However, we just were not ready to adopt at that point. Still too much pain with losing Velcro.
A few weeks ago we noticed Kirby was no longer on the website and we were sad but felt happy that he found a home. So we decided to make a trip to the shelter to maybe fall in love with a different cat this past Saturday (March 16th). To our surprise there he was, more handsome in person than online. Our connection was instant and we knew that we could provide him with a forever home and he could help us fill that void that was missing in our family.
He is a little shy, but to be expected and every day he comes out and explores a little more. He and our 9 year old Lab, Bosco have made friends. Bosco provides many licks to his face and Kirby rubs around Bosco's legs so I'm sure they each give something to one another. Our smaller dog Roxi is more cautious but interested in meeting her new playmate as well and I can see they will be great friends soon.
A funny little thing we notices is that when Kirby is happy and getting attention and being loved on he drools. We find that endearing and think that will be his "thing" everyone has something that makes them unique and so that's our Kirby!
I know the woman who adopted him and had to bring him back was very sad to do so and I know she's now away serving our country so had to return him due to her deployment. If there is any way to get a message to her letting her know that he has found a home with a husband, wife, an 11 year old very loving and responsible girl and a 7 year old silly, caring, boy and 2 goofy dogs and a bunny and that we'll be loving him for many, many years to come we would appreciate it.
I will send pictures soon, need to figure how to get them off of my phone. Thanks again for the service you provide. Best of luck finding homes for the other well-deserving cats.
The Olivas Family
Omar, Adriana, Sydney, Simon, Bosco, Roxi, Popcorn and newly added Kirby
Hello Simply Cats Staff!
It's been 6 months since we adopted Bennigan (now known as "Rafi") and we just wanted to let you know that he has adjusted to us and we to him very nicely. Although it took him a while to get used to his new "staff", he has become very comfortable and loving. While he is definitely not a lap cat, he loves to be close by, enjoys having company, likes being brushed, and loves to play. We've learned to love his sweet trilling and his "Maneki Neko" pose (see attached). He's gentle with his paws and often pats us on the head in the morning! In short, we adore him!
Attached are a few photos of him…
Thank you for taking such good care of him and all his buddies.
Best Regards,
Valerie and Paul Hartl
The day after Thanksgiving we visited Simply Cats to look for a kitten for my daughter who lost her treasured cat in September. We were almost ready to leave empty handed when Lucy said, "can I just look in the one room we haven't checked yet?" I said yes, and within moments of walking into the room, Lucy and "Munchkin" fell in love and we weren't going to leave without her. Lucy had wanted to name a cat "Persnickety" since fourth or fifth grade, so "Munchkin" became Persnickety.
Persnickety is Lucy's trusted homework buddy, and when she isn't helping with homework, she is playing with our other cat, Jasper, or attacking my yarn while I'm knitting. When she is finally worn out, she finds a perch on the top of the sofa, so she can keep an eye on the dogs.
She is the perfect addition to our family,
Good Morning Patty,
I am especially grateful for your help in getting Miss Whimsey adopted and added to our household. She is a very intelligent cat and has figured out a bunch of the new rules (not on the furniture or countertops), completely "cowed" the dog, and adapted to the washer, dryer, dishwasher, me using the stationery bike and treadmill.
But, she is not crazy about the television. Perhaps she just didn't like the movie Star Trek, too noisy. She retreated to her special room in the combination laundry/bathroom and slept on the scratching post, ignoring me until I turned the television off!
I have included several photographs just for fun. She got to meet my grandchildren via Skype last night and she has charmed visitors and clients alike. She loves her new toys and especially likes the chase fish. But a girl gets tuckered out so she is cuddled up right now with her bed buddy. Enjoy!
Thank you so much!
Susan Wildwood
and….of course, Whimsey
Reese is Settling in, getting along with Bonsai, Enjoying the Good Life, Napping in our laps, Giving us joy, Making us Smile……..and Every Quilt Needs a Kitten/Cat….! TKU Patty and Hope for helping me select this kitten…..he is PURRRRFECT….!
Carol n Ed
Perched on the stairs, Every Quilt Needs a Cat…..
I wanted to give you an update on Daisy (Iris) whom we adopted in July during your kitten adoptathon. My 8 year old daughter, Grace, had been begging and begging for a kitten for TWO years. We finally decided it was time and brought her to simply cats. She thought she was there just to visit, but when we were in one of the kitten rooms we told her she could pick one out. She was in total shock and disbelief! :) She picked Daisy right away—who didn't stop purring for about 3 days! :) All day long after we brought her home, Grace kept pinching herself saying that she was sure she would wake up from this dream any time now. She was so happy that she finally got her kitten. Daisy has been the best! Sleeping on Grace's bed, hanging out with her, playing etc. I just wanted to say thank you for helping make a little girl's dream come true! Daisy is a great addition to our family!!
December 16th I will officially have had my cat Gideon for 3 years now. He's FIV and I love him so much now I can't even imagine my life without him. Originally he meowed so much I almost took him back, but now I just talk back to him and he feels validated about his specific daily routine. He makes me laugh as he leads me around the house checking to see that all the daily rituals have been completed, then he curls up on his very own furry office chair in front of the window to watch the local wildlife. His newest trick is to wave at other cats by pawing the glass to try and get their attention.
He was originally bought by me to be a companion animal for my health and he has been a wonder at that too. He makes sure I get up on time and take my meds ( even though sometimes he gets confused betwee 5am and 8am, and I think because the bottles sound like treats ). He's always at the door when I come home, and best of all he snuggles up with me at night after his evening rampage around the house. With my illness I need the extra company at night and he seems to know when to be snuggled under my arm or just be there between my feet. He's very smart and understands a few hand signals and commands now, Including "Get out of the cabinet!" Just his presence in the house gives me peace and lowers my symptoms.
I found out also that he is very cold natured an there are blankets on all his favorite spots or you can find him snuggled up next to the heater sleeping the day away. Hope it doesn't get any colder, I don't know what he'd do..lol.
One thing he has taught me over the past three years is not to take life to seriously. I've become a much more relaxed and social person than I was. I didn't even know I was learning! And I think he's teaching me to meow until I get what I want. He's my best friend. He's also FIV so I watch over him as much as he watches over me. Never be scared to take a cat with FIV. They are the same as any other cat, and I don't know what I'd do without mine. FIV is not a death sentence or anything scary, it's just a diagnosis, like having any basic immune deficiency that you can pop a vitamin for. Easy! I just watch what he eats and take him in for his regular check ups. He has my heart between his fuzzy little paws ( and sharp claws.. lol).
Thank you Simply Cats for giving me the best Christmas gift ever. My life is more enriched each year he snuggles up to my side or meows for a treat.
© 2015 Simply Cats Adoption Center|Site by NetRaising


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Natural Products Association MarketPlace Tradeshow And Conference To Suspend In 2013
BOULDER, Colo. and WASHINGTON, Dec. 14, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- New Hope Natural Media will suspend the Natural Products Association MarketPlace tradeshow scheduled to be held in Las Vegas in June 2013. The decision to suspend this event will allow for delivery of new opportunities more strategically aligned with today's market needs.
"We plan to shift our emphasis to further develop our partnership with the Natural Products Association. This shift will create new opportunities for the natural products industry, surrounding our trade shows," said Fred Linder, President, New Hope Natural Media.
Since 2008, New Hope Natural Media and the Natural Products Association have worked together to support the natural products retailer and the industry at large with the production of Natural Products Association MarketPlace. This partnership will continue via new programs and initiatives in the near future and the benefits will remain intact for NPA members.
"The Natural Products Association appreciates the work we've done with New Hope throughout the years. While it is unfortunate the show won't go on, we understand the business reasons behind it. NPA has always sought to connect retailers and suppliers in the marketplace. We are committed to this goal and our work with New Hope to achieve it. NPA looks forward to new developments within this relationship in 2013 and beyond," said John Shaw, Executive Director and CEO, Natural Products Association.
About New Hope Natural Media New Hope Natural Media ( www.newhope.com), a division of Penton Media, Inc., is the leading media resource and information provider for the natural, organic and healthy products industry with print, in-person/event, and e-business products and services. About Penton Media, Inc. For millions of business owners and decision-makers, Penton makes the difference every day. We engage our professional users by providing actionable ideas and insights, data and workflow tools, community and networking, both in person and virtually, all with deep relevance to their specific industries. Then we activate this engagement by connecting users with tens of thousands of targeted providers of products and services to help drive business growth. Learn more about our company at www.penton.com. Penton is a privately held company owned by MidOcean Partners and U.S. Equity Partners II, an investment fund sponsored by Wasserstein & Co., LP.Check Out Our Best Services for Investors
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You know, I think us ladies have it pretty easy when it comes to being good at sex. I feel like the baseline is just to not lay there like a corpse and to express enthusiasm. Our bodies don't usually mechanically betray us in this particular arena – most of the time, mechanical problems with our lady parts can be fixed with lube. Guys, on the other hand, have to depend on their penises, which apparently have a mind on their own. Luckily, I've never been with a dude whose penis wasn't functioning, but it is a thing that happens to men, regardless of age, fitness level, arousal level, etc. I know that if I were confronted with a penis that didn't appear happy to see me, I would be a little bit bummed out. However, don't let it ruin the moment. There are ways for both parties to leave the bed somewhat satisfied. Read more on College Candy…
Zergnet: Simply Irresistible
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Published on the Packaging World Web site
Machine Product Brief
| August 10, 2011
Econocorp Inc: Automatic, horizontal cartoner
See it at PACK EXPO Booth #C-2419! Econocorp's Econoseal E- System 2000 is a cost-effective and simple horizontal automatic cartoning solution that produces up to 1,500 cartons/hour, and offers a broad carton-size range in a small footprint.
This ergonomically-friendly machine automatically: erects cartons onto a single product loading station; allows an operator to load product with the help of a stainless steel guide shelf or can be equipped with optional automatic product loading conveyors and devices; closes all end flaps using either glue seal end or tuck closure methods; automatically discharges completed cartons for the next operation; optional date/lot coding devices and other options can also be incorporated into the design. Accommodates both paperboard and corrugated material.
Companies in this article:
Econocorp Inc.
© Copyright 2015 Summit Media Group, Inc. This copy is for your personal, noncommercial use only. To order presentation-ready copies for distribution to your colleagues, clients or customers click
or use the "Reprints" tool that appears next to any article. Visit
for samples and additional information. Order a reprint or license this article now.


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AT&T offers TelePresence as a service
AT&T is planning to offer Cisco's TelePresence solution as a managed service.
AT&T is planning to offer Cisco's TelePresence solution as a managed service.
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Named the 'AT&T Telepresence Solution', it pairs Cisco TelePresence with IP networking and VPN functions from AT&T.
Ronald E. Spears, AT&T group president of Global Business Services, said the service allows businesses to "make better business decisions".
With full 1080p high-definition video and spatial audio, the vendors claim the solution recreates the experience of being in the same room as the other participants.
AT&T is also planning to develop several industry-specific telepresence applications, including industries such as health care, high-tech, retail and government.
The vendor said the service will be available in 23 countries in the second half of 2008, with additional countries planned for 2009.


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My guests for this weekend show will be Mr. Teddy Burton from B.O.S.S a social service agency. I will be speaking with Mr. Burton on the need for critical social services for the community.
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15th March 2013
Father's heartwarming letter to son after overhearing his plans to come out goes viral 39
6:17 PM — A supportive letter sent from a father to his son, who he overheard speaking on the phone about wanting to come out, has gone viral, and has been held up as a good example of parental love.
8th March 2013
London vicar: 'Gay marriage is a sin and people can be cured from being gay' 53
12:37 PM — A vicar from the Dagenham suburb of London has claimed that equal marriage is a sin, and that people can be "cured from being gay.
1st March 2013
World War II love letter professes love of one soldier for another 47
2:16 PM — The letter written in 1943 by GI Brian Keith professes his love for a fellow soldier posted in North Africa during World War II. The letter's intended recipient never made it home.
24th January 2013
US: 11-year-old trans girl says Obama should have mentioned trans people at his inauguration 11
3:06 PM — An trans girl has written a speech in response to that given by US President Barack Obama at his public inauguration on Monday, during which he referred to the gay community.
11th January 2013
US: Lesbian couple handed letter condemning homosexuality by manager as they left his restaurant 32
3:59 PM — A lesbian couple from North Carolina have said a restaurant owner handed them a letter condeminig homosexuality as they paid and left.
21st November 2012
US: Obama commended for stance on equal marriage by 10-year-old's letter 15
12:55 AM — A 10-year-old in the US was surprised to get a reply to a letter she sent to President Barack Obama. She had written to tell him that she appreciated his acceptance of the love between same-sex couples.
29th December 2011
Interview: Simon Callow on Dickens, Peggy Ramsay and being gay 8
9:47 AM — Laurence Watts meets the celebrated actor, theatre director, writer and biographer, renowned for his mastery of Shakespeare and Dickens whose film credits include Amadeus, A Room with a View, Maurice, Four Weddings and a Funeral, Shakespeare in Love and The Phantom of the Opera.
23rd December 2011
Gays "sorry for cheapening marriage" after US politician's "affair" 47
9:56 AM — A gay man in Minnesota has apologised on behalf of his community for "degrading traditional marriage" after a married state senator who opposed equal marriage rights had an "illicit affair" with a male member of her staff.
20th December 2011
New York couple receive wedding congratulations from Barack Obama 22
3:27 PM — A New York gay couple have spoken of their surprise after receiving a letter of congratulation from President Barack Obama following their wedding.
14th December 2011
House of Lords urged to reject challenge to civil partnership rules tomorrow 70
9:05 AM — Religious leaders have written an open letter to the House of Lords calling on them to reject the challenge facing the regulations for religious civil partnerships tomorrow.
28th November 2011
Video: Lady Gaga's surprise message to Canadian school tackling bullying 13
10:27 AM — The students at a Canadian school received a surprise message of congratulation from Lady Gaga last week after writing to her about a pledge they had drawn up to stop bullying. Jacques St Pierre, 17, send Lady Gaga a letter outlining what was being done at Etobicoke School of the Arts to ensure a safer environment.
24th November 2011
US professor: Pro-gay Israeli stance "conceals Palestinian human rights violations" 89
11:41 AM — "Pinkwashing", according to the professor, has emerged as "a deliberate strategy to conceal the continuing violations of Palestinians' human rights behind an image of modernity." The idea was described as "ludicrous and offensive".
9th November 2011
Petition urges closure of Ecuadorian ex-gay "torture clinics" 10
5:03 PM — A letter to the country's Health Minister claims clinics remain a "horrific reality" for many.
4th November 2011
Ricky Martin granted Spanish citizenship 26
4:56 PM — El Pais reports the South American singer wants to marry in the country, which was the third in the world to introduce marriage equality.
12th September 2011
Gay senator David Norris 'could re-enter race for Irish presidency' 46
3:04 PM — Openly gay independent senator David Norris could re-enter the race for the Irish presidency, it has been reported. The Sunday Independent reported that he is considering whether to stand again, following a "consistent outpouring of public support".
9th February 2011
Wisconsin lesbian minister could be removed from clergy 7
1:34 PM — A lesbian minister in the US state of Wisconsin is to appear before a church trial. Rev Amy DeLong will face charges after she presided over a 2009 ceremony for a lesbian couple and registered her own relationship as a domestic partnership.
6th January 2011
Former chair says Brighton Pride is failing the gay community 23
11:50 AM — The former chair of Brighton Pride has said that the festival needs a "radical" overhaul. David Harvey, who ran the event between 2003 and 2006, said Brighton Pride was too straight, that LGBT people did not feel safe there and and that trustees could be breaching Charity Commission rules by "running a party disguised as a charity".
25th November 2010
John Travolta enraged by gay sex claims
4:32 PM — John Travolta is said to be furious after a US gossip website published claims that he had sex with men in saunas. The star's lawyers have demanded that the story be removed.
23rd February 2010
Bishops call for gay civil partnerships in church 43
10:38 AM — Senior clergy in the Church of England called today to lift the ban on gay couples having civil partnerships in church. They said that it was inconsistent and discriminatory to ban gay couples having their ceremonies in churches willing to accommodate them.
18th November 2009
Exclusive: HIV film 'dangerous and misleading' 468
12:32 PM — A film about HIV and what causes AIDS has been attacked for being misleading and even dangerous. HIV charities and health experts have told PinkNews.co.uk that the ideas the film promotes are "pseudo-science" and could damage the public health.