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Internet, social media adding to problem of bullying
January 26, 2013
Warren Township resident Margie Wesel is at her wit's end. For more than a year, her 11-year-old daughter Pam has been bullied mercilessly, she said....
Just to make things clear, I have repeatedly tried to get the schools principle. But she is obviously not fixing the problem. She told me warrens 0 tolerance policy was often misleading and that unless it is heard by an adult and there's 100% proof that it is happening then there is nothing they can do short of just talking to the student.
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well i can honestly say i personally know that pam and the rest of the "billy" clan are no innocent party. 3 of them are bullys with a capital b. pam being one of the worst. always pushing kids around because she is so much bigger. i have 2 kids that go to warren one is class with her and has been on the receiving end of her tantrums! my other child is in class with daniell and well that is just a load of fun. i get to hear all kinds of stories! so ms. wesel before you make your daughter out to be the victim get your story straight. 3 of your daughters are completely out of control at school and more than one parent has to hear about it. i'm sure that is why the principle has done nothing about it. it's not that the kids are bullying her, they are sticking up for themselves and she can't handle it! by the by i saw your facebook pose and the reason pam was crying in the bathroom is because the boy she liked didn't show up for the dance not because she was being bullied. learn
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learn the facts before you go as far as getting the marietta times involved in your personal matters. things that should be resolved in the privacy of your own home. this is not front page news, this isnt news at all. this is a teenage girl doing what teenage girls do, being a drama queen for attention! you have 4 so are we going to have to read about everything that happens with them in the paper i sure hope not. get a handle on your children and be a mother
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Well warren mother of 2. If my children are being bully's, it had certainly not been brought to my attention which again goes to prove that the principle isn't doing her job because if my kids are being bully's, I would be the first to make then apologize . As for my daughter the night if the dance, I was there, I know what happened and I didn't see you or any other adult in that bathroom consoling her. Pam has constantly been treated like crap since we moved here. I knew when I decided that enough was enough and finally got someone to say something that there would be parents like you "the loyals" that would give me back lash. I know what's been happening and u also know nothing has gotten done about it. So as u said, if you think that my kids are bully's, give me the names of the children who you think my kids are bullying and I will be giving my kids the 4th degree about it.
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And btw if you are who I think you are then maybe you should check on ur little fella and ask why she lashed out on him.
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Both my "little fellas"are girls and her saying she should punch my daughter in the face because my daughter didn't invite her to a sleepover a few month back then incessantly calling her rude names like ugly skank loser n my favorite fat any time she walked by her, now mind you this sleep over was small and for close friends only, my daughter is not the only one Pam throws her weight around with. Maybe instead of blaming the school for not doing right by her talk to them about what she is doing wrong! She is no angle. She is the bully and you are enabling her. No you were not with her the whole time i read your post its all over Facebook. You ma'am are a liar!
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I did not say I was with her the whole time. I was with her in the bathroom, when she was on the floor crying because kids were making fun of her. You have absolutly no clue what is going on. I never..........not one time said any of my kids are ANGELS. And I promise you that if I ever caught wind that my children were being bullies, I would do something about it. May I please ask you what your daughters name is? I will address this to pam. By the way,if you "know" this is happening, why, as a parent are you allowing it?????? hmmmmm
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And why would i console a child who is bigger than me n bigger than my 75lb 11 year old who she threatens bodily harm to? I was there the whole time i didn't see her come in but i didn't see her get picked on either. I saw her walking around n looking around start yelling like she does when she gets mad screaming that he lied n storm off, n according to your statements, to the office to call home.
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So it's my fault your daughter is a bully? Well atleast i know where she gets it from! It only continues because the policy is a joke n until there r cameras in the classrooms to catch it there is no way to stop it. My kids know they r better than the garbage that comes out of the mouth of the ignorant so they can turn a blind eye. No i will not put my daughters names out for the world to see, i unlike u believe parenting doesn't need to b front page news! U just needed to know the truth ask the teacher's n other students, not just the ones in her class either!
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There are so very many things I could say right now. But I am going to choose not to because A, you have proven by your last comment just how grown up you are and B, I dont think I need to say more. I know what is going on, you my dear are very mislead and I know for 100% certainty what is going on, not only with my children, but several others. have a good morning.
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Well, welcome to the world of criticism...the cowards and chickens have been so tough on community leaders, teachers and coaches for several years using their social media hiding screen. It is a great way for people to say things that they would never have the nerve to say face to face. Great teachers get so beat up by social medial,,and from parents who have raised an idiot.
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Ducky1 & warrenmotherof2, what a disgrace you two are. You get on and article about bullying and the effects it has then you to get into a pi&&ing match for all the world to see. Tell me exactly how you're helping the situation? Be a role model for your kids because in today's society they need them. The exact environment you display is what your kids learn. Both students may be at fault, that is not for me to judge. Instead of whining, complaining, and blaming like our society constantly does how about we work on solutions to remedy, correct, and prevent future bullying in every school in America. Next time when one of you sits down with the principal, think are you both approaching this with an open mind?
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i know from experience how warren local school protects the bullies!!! i don't know how many times i was at the school because my son was being picked on! i was told by the principle that he needed to start fighting back!! NO HE DIDN'T HE NEEDED PROTECTION FROM THE BULLIES! i would never send another child to that school!
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yea right ducky1 like you would really make your kid apologize!!! i've heard that a million times
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felinus combatae.
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Warrens BOE and administration have bullied people for years. Why should the parents and kids be any different. You are what your are taught.
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With parents like these ones we are seeing, these poor children are doomed. The teachers are also doomed - they should not have to deal with this stuff and should be focused on teaching. I think these mothers and their girls need to focus on their school work. If they were, then they would not be on here showing themselves.
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Somehow I feel as if I am watching Jerry Springer
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wouderful. i am so proud. not!!!!
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So sad /in an article about children being bullied ,we get real live adult bullies. Can you parents of these children read what you wrote and maybe see a problem there? Old hickory your Jerry springer comment was right on.
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Ms. Wesel, you are aware of Pam's bullying. My child is also in Pam's 5th grade class. I have along with several other parents talked with the principal regarding your daughter's bullying and major behavior problems and tantrums she throws in class that disturb our children's entire learning process. Do you think it is ok for Pam to tell other little girls to not even think about looking or touching the boy she likes or she will "kill" them. Is it ok for her to throw books across the room? I could go on and on with all of her disruptions and tantrums she throws on a daily basis. I was outraged to read your sad little story on facebook that was an absolute lie. What was more disturbing is that people were sharing it left and right and believed it. I am sure that the security guard that stood by the front door of the dance the entire evening allowed 6 kids to hold the door shut on Pam. You are a liar! Warrenmotherof2 has stated nothing but the truth regarding you and your
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And we wonder why the children behave the way they do? Maybe they have learned by example!
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Warrenmotherof2 is not a disgrace. She is just setting the record straight. Ms. Wesel should not spread her lies all over facebook and the Marietta Times. On her facebook page she is slandering the school and school officials. Stop enabling Pam. Stop thinking Pam is innocent. Pam is the bully. By the way Ms. Wesel, why do your girls not attend St Johns anymore? Same problems? Your facebook states you are going to transfer your girls to Marietta. Hmmm...think you will have the same problems?
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My child is a victim of this family. My child has not behaved in any wrong manner nor have I.
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Perhaps the apple doesn't fall far from the tree? I don't know any of you and don't care to. Perhaps family counseling is in order. The school doesn't need to be involved in this if the bullying is taking place at extracurricular activities or is cyber-bullying. School personnel has enough to do without expecting them to do this too.
Bullying is a learned behavior and when it becomes entrenched in a personality, it's very hard to change it. Child bullies grow up to become adult bullies, destroying people right and left.
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Sighting Basics
Sighting Location
|British Columbia
Sighting Specifics
|Viewing Distance
|Sighting Duration
|Object Features
|Object Flight Path
|Path with directional change
|Object Shape
|Weather Factors
Sighting Details
I had only been in my new apartment not quite a month, and was trying to abide by the rules of not smoking in my apartment so I was sitting on my balcony, watching the sky garbage fall and the satellites. I wanted to see if I was going to see the space station being as how I had heard that it suppost to be visible from where I lived. As I was sitting there I noticed what appeared to be a jet stream trail, in my head I said never one with out two so I looked in the opposite direction. So now I was looking both east and west and the two objects appeared to be on a collision course so I really started to pay attention. I was also trying to figure who, as in which military base would be flying at that time of night. You see here on Vancouver Island we have 2 Canadian bases and 1 American. The town I live in is kind of centred between them. Nothing made any sense so I just kept on watching them. They continued until they came together and seemed to stop for only moments, then each made a sharp turn and ran a straight line side by side and then seemed to stop again and then turned back towards their start point except at an angle that made like a triangle, when they reached nearly to the line they had left when starting they again turned towards each other at a very sharp turn yet again. When they were close to their up line they again made a sharp turn only this time straight up. Their stream stayed with them for only a mere second or so and then they were gone. I searched the sky for quite awhile and could find no place within my vision to see if they had come down or crashed. they were simply gone. I went out every night for several nights from about 12 till 1 to see if they would show up again, and well they never did.
Did You See It? Have a Comment or Question? Discuss it Below.
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- There has been one other sighting in Parksville
- There were no other sightings in Parksville on or around November 10th 2011
- This sighting has never been favorited.

subset: commoncrawl


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What's All the "Brewer-Ha-Ha" about Arizona?
It's on the other side of a country three time zones away from you. You have never been there. You don't know anyone who lives there. You have enough on your plate with your own family and your child's needs.
Why should you care about what is happening in the state of Arizona?
Arizona became the fourth state to enact autism insurance reform legislation in the spring of 2008. In 2011, their legislature became the first state to pass a bill that would effectively reverse the progress made three years ago. That legislation now sits on Governor Brewer's desk awaiting its fate – to become law or to get her veto stamp.
On its face, this new legislation appears harmless and expansive of our free enterprise, capitalist society. Let the interstate commerce trading of insurance policies begin under the premise of increased competition in the market to allow for reduced health care costs! But at what price? If SB 1593 is signed into law by Governor Jan Brewer, it will allow companies to shop outside the great state of Arizona – perhaps in states where autism insurance reform has not passed – potentially leaving families alone holding the bag once again for their exorbitant children's health care costs which can quickly and easily be upwards of $75,000 each year.
Just watch the evening news any given week and you can see that Arizona politics these days are writhe with state's rights and state pride. "Don't tell us what to do. We are Arizona." That said, how is it possible that Arizona legislators would then choose to hand over regulatory authority of healthcare coverage for their constituency to say…Rhode Island? If SB 1593 is signed into law, policies will be purchased across state lines, or even across the country. Citizens will have no recourse – subject to the whims of the other state's legislature, regulation committees and judicial system. They will have no representation at all.
Last week, Autism Speaks launched an aggressive campaign asking Governor Brewer to veto the bill. Members of our Government Relations team met with her office. We purchased television air time for commercials. We sent eblasts to rally the Arizona community.
This week we are asking people all across America to pitch in with the heavy lifting. We need it.
There is a company generating robocalls to call for Governor Brewer's signature into law. And their ever efficient robodialer is delivering calls to Governor Brewer's office at a higher rate than our community – a community exhausted from fighting our fight at every turn.
Help us prove that our grassroots advocates are better than robots.
This is simply a domino that we cannot afford to let fall. A victory for the opposition would bolster resolve to introduce similar legislation in every state where reform initiatives have passed.
Who cares about Arizona politics? You should. Your insurance coverage, or your hope of obtaining it, is now in great jeopardy. As a community we must stand strong. We must come to Arizona's aid. We must politely ask Governor Brewer to do the right thing – to veto SB 1593 and preserve the accomplishments of Steven's Law.
Regardless of what state you live in, please call Governor Brewer's office at 602.542.4331. Press #4 for a live person. Say "I am calling to ask Governor Brewer to veto SB 1593." Tell your friends. Post it on your Facebook. Send it out through Twitter. Ask for accountability from your friends and family. Ask them to demonstrate publically that they have completed the mission by writing "DONE" below your post.
Nothing in life is ever easy. To preserve progress, we must be ever vigilant.
To learn more about what is happening in Arizona or to learn how you can become more involved in federal and state initiatives, please visit www.autismvotes.org and sign up today!
JobTIPS: Helping to Level the Playing Field for Individuals with Autism in the Workforce
This is a blog post by Louise Buchholz Southern, M.Ed., BCBA., formal special educator and content director at do2learn.com.
Many people with autism spectrum disorders are fully capable of joining the workforce, living full and independent lives and being tax-contributing members of our communities. Yet the number employed is relatively low due to lack of access to information and supports that would result in gainful employment. JobTIPS is our attempt to help level the playing field.
As a former special educator at the secondary level, I spent so much time focusing on my students' academic and social skills development that I had little time to track down or develop resources that supported their vocational needs. I was not alone.
A group of us – educators, clinicians, parents and advocates – banded together to see what resources were actually out there. Unfortunately, what we found was very limited and not tailored to the special needs of individuals with autism. Many people reside in remote and underserved areas, where there is even less access to supports, combined with the fact that not all available resources and instructional strategies are of a high quality or consistency.
Many of these students are not going on to pursue post-secondary education options, but often graduate without the basic skills needed to find and maintain employment.
Understanding the "why"
A prospective job applicant like "James" is ill-equipped to follow his dream in the workplace. Getting along with co-workers is really hard for him. He gets tired of "adjusting to them" and often asks "why can't they adjust to me?" James, like many young adults with autism we see every day, has trouble keeping jobs. Over the last 10 years he has been hired and fired repeatedly, seldom understanding why. For others, the challenge is simply getting hired.
Tough questions. Tough questions that we felt could be addressed by merging technology with our expertise in the field of autism. We broke down this web-based resource into four core parts – Determining Interests, Finding a Job, Getting a Job, and Keeping a Job.
We designed real-life, interactive exercises that not only deal with the practical skills of identifying jobs that match their strengths and filling out applications, but developing their understanding of, and response to, the important social nuances that underlie the workplace environment. To teach them the "whys" of social interactions that typically get in the way of their success.
Successful employment is a key to greater independence
Successful employment is a key to greater independence – healthier self-esteem and higher quality of life – for individuals with ASD. JobTIPS aims to offer these young adults the right resources to help them optimize their potential and at a level where employers see and appreciate the unique skills and talents they have to offer. To find out more, visit www.do2Learn.com.
Autism Speaks has many employment-related resources for individuals with autism and their families. These include: Autism in the Workplace, Advancing Futures for Adults with Autism, and the Transition Tool Kit.
Autism in the News – 04.28.11
Checklist could spot children with autism earlier (Washington Post)
Pediatricians could diagnose children with autism earlier by asking parents to fill out a simple, five-minute checklist when they take their babies in for their first-year checkups, according to research released Thursday. Read more.
Students honor autism with bubbles (Tototwa, N.J.)
Part of Autism Awareness Month, the students at Memorial School and Washington Park School in Totowa participated in a national event recently. The students at both schools were blowing bubbles for a FACES (Families for Autistic Children Education & Support) event to bring awareness to autism and hopes for a world record. The students are trying to set a new Guinness World Record for the amount of people blowing bubbles simultaneously. Read more.
Parents accused of caging autistic children in Vancouver plead not guilty (Vancouver, Wash.)
The Vancouver man and woman accused of keeping two autistic boys locked behind what police called a "cage-like" door pleaded not guilty to unlawful imprisonment charges in Clark County Superior Court on this morning. Read more.
Glen Ridge schools mark Autism Awareness Month (Glen Ridge, N.J.)
"My name is Sue Rubin. I am 26 years old. I have written these thoughts about my life, because I don't really talk." Read more.
Autism needs acceptance, not an awareness month (Sun Sentinel)
As we near the end of April, celebrated by some as Autism Awareness Month, I offer you this potentially controversial piece by the father of an autistic child who doesn't believe in raising awareness of autism, as much as accepting those who are living with the condition. Give it a read, and leave your impressions in the comment section below. I'd be interested to see what you have to say. Read more.
A Sister Reflects on World Autism Awareness Month
This is a guest blog post by Ali Dyer, the Social Media Coordinator at Autism Speaks. Her older brother Jeff has autism.
April 2011, World Autism Awareness Month, has been one of the most memorable times in my life. The last few weeks I have taken part in some unbelievable 'Light It Up Blue' events, met amazing people, and connected with the worldwide community to commemorate World Autism Awareness Month. April was comprised of so many moving parts that came together seamlessly, due to the hard work of so many.
I have been meaning to write a blog post, but I keep hitting walls.
Sure, I drafted a post of my experiences on April 1 and 2, detailing some of my stops: The Today Show with Alpha Xi Delta; WPIX 11 with the incredible students from Pelham; The New York Stock Exchange with our Co-Founders Mr. and Mrs. Wright, state dignitaries, politicians, celebrities and many more prominent people in the autism community. I could write about the reception hosted by 'Light It Up Blue Rockland,' in my hometown, when my brother and his housemates were in attendance. I was so proud. Or, the press conference at the Intrepid, which took place on a beautiful Saturday morning.
Throughout this campaign, I communicated with literally thousands of people all over the world. I feel blessed and privileged to have heard their stories and seen their photos. While I worry that I will never be able to formulate the right words to give World Autism Awareness Month justice it deserves, here are some photos that will speak for me:
I can't forget to include the panel discussion, 'Solving the Autism Public Health Puzzle: Regional and International Collaboration,' held at the United Nations, or 'A Blue Affair' hosted by Donald Trump Jr. and his wife, Vanessa.
We should also revisit the push to 'Light The White House Blue.' I am in awe of each person who submitted a blog entry. More than 1,000 comments were posted and much of the autism community was unified for a common goal.
On April 25, my dear friend Jess, who so bravely and unselfishly shares her beautiful family with us on A Diary of a Mom, was invited to The White House for an event to commemorate Autism Awareness Month. The morning before she headed over to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Jess told me that she would be taking my brother Jeff with her. My heart was full. I couldn't think of anyone better to represent him. She gives all of those affected by autism the utmost respect and genuine compassion. I will never be able to thank her enough.
However, alongside all of these spectacular and unique moments, the most memorable for me happened on probably the most mundane of all days.
On April 3, once we all were coming down off the Light It Up Blue 'high,' my brother came home from his residential house, and I snapped back to reality. We took a walk, as we have done countless times before. My mom, brother, and I have been taking Sunday walks for years, making it almost an institution. We go to different locations, but often find ourselves on the wooded path at the Pearl River Middle School, as we did that day. We are shielded by the trees and find comfort in the trail's predictable twists and turns.
Before we begin, Jeff's anxiety kicks in and he asks for a rundown of dates, "Yes, Jeff, next weekend you can order two DVDs off Amazon, in June 2011 we will go to Montauk for a week, in 2014 we will remodel the kitchen …" and so it goes. Then, we are swallowed by the woods, where Jeffery will usually stroll a few steps behind making his noises. My mom and I will smile and greet friendly strangers; some give us knowing and warm looks, while others sort of stare.
As we round the first bend, which borders a putting green at the local golf course, we remind Jeff to quiet down. As per usual, he gets louder, and we laugh. Next, there is a downturn that Jeff always heads down gingerly. He approaches this dip with the caution he exhibits in some everyday activities. If there are any disruptions along the way (fallen tree, broken bridge, mud puddles, etc.), Jeff always takes note – I am positive he remembers every element of the trail from the first day he stepped foot there, over twenty years ago.
We plod along, stopping from time to time to chat about dates. He'll hold our hands, then jog ahead, or maybe he'll stop to give us a hug. My mom and I don't mind – as a matter of fact, we'd have it no other way.
The last leg has a steep uphill that my mom and I sort of dread. Each time, Jeff manages to surge, making it to the top with a smile. He takes on the hill with gusto and courage. This trail reminds me of the journey my family is on. There are times we are slow and anxious, while other times we coast through and laugh. We have down-slopes and upturns, but Jeff always keeps our pace and establishes a rhythm. It may have taken him a little longer through the years, but he has become our fearless leader. Jeff holds us up with his unconditional love and directs us with his strength.
My brother, like the countless members of our community, is brave.
World Autism Awareness Month 2011 has given me a greater sense of community. Together, we will make the world a safer and more welcoming place for my brother, and all of those with autism spectrum disorders. I have a renewed hope, and will be forever changed.
I would like to send a big thank you to each and every person in the autism community.
Autism in the News – 04.27.11
Autism Walk In Los Angeles Raises $1.4 Million For Autism Speaks (Los Angeles, Calif.)
More than 25,000 Angelenos gathered at the Rose Bowl stadium in Pasadena on Saturday to participate in the annual Walk Now For Autism Speaks event. The family-friendly walkathon takes place in 90 cities across the country to raise awareness for the syndrome and funds for more research. Before the walk had even started, event organizers were reporting that donations already exceeded last year's Los Angeles contribution at $1.3 million, according to ABC7. By the end of the walk, the figure was over $1.4 million and counting. Read more.
Autism needs growing (Lakewood, Calif.)
Thirteen- year-old Blake Wesselman is a math whiz in his seventh- grade class, but one wrong answer can send him into a meltdown. Read more.
Try to be model for hiring autistic workers (Pantagraph.com)
The April 3 Parade magazine had a story, "Autism's Lost Generation." It detailed the frustration and challenges of autistic young adults. A Pantagraph story April 18 told of a local young man with autism and his successes at Heartland Community College. Society needs to ask, what happens when the school bus does not come for people with cognitive disabilities? Read more.
Autistic students teach classmates about their condition (Valley News Dispatch)
Like an ace pitcher, Jon Krzewinski didn't let his nerves affect his performance. On Tuesday, he helped explain a little about autism to his fellow fifth-graders at Colfax Upper Elementary School. To convey his message, he shared some details about himself, among them that he's a baseball fanatic. Read more.
Prince George's County Council Recognizes Autism Awareness Month
On April 19, 2011, Council Chair Ingrid M. Turner, Esq. presented a proclamation in honor of Autism Awareness Month. Here are the opening remarks by Stacy Wiseman, Pink DREAMS TEAM Leader, to commemorate Prince George's County Council's recognition of Autism Awareness Month.
"RAISE your hand if you know someone affected by Autism or have a family member on the spectrum.
Keep your hand up if you know what Autism is?
What is Autism?
Autism is a term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders known as Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD). Some of you may have heard the terms Asperger's Syndrome, Rett Syndrome and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder. Many parents and professionals refer to this group as Autism Spectrum Disorders or (ASD).
How common is Autism?
Today, it is estimated that one in every 110 children is diagnosed with autism, making it more common than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined. An estimated 1.5 million individuals in the U.S. and tens of millions worldwide are affected by autism. Statistics suggest the rate of autism is increasing 10-17 percent annually. Studies suggest boys are more likely than girls to develop autism and receive the diagnosis 3 to 4 times more frequently. In the United States alone, one out of 70 boys is diagnosed with autism.
What causes Autism?
The simple answer is we don't know…I want to thank the Prince George's County Council for recognizing Autism Awareness Month today and say that there are many families, friends, neighbors and strangers who are affected by Autism each day. While no child or adult with an Autism Spectrum Disorder is alike, we all have a civic duty as a community to be AWARE of this disorder and take ACTION by visiting www.autismspeaks.org to donate toward current research in finding a cure, participate in a Walk or Run and find out more. Thank you!"
Holly's Gift to the Autism Community
This is a guest post by Peter Bell, the executive vice president for programs and services at Autism Speaks. He oversees the foundation's government relations and family services activities and also serves as an advisor to the science division.
For many of us in the autism community, April has become our holiday season. This year, one of the many gifts we received was extensive autism coverage on the popular CBS day time show "The Talk." It's probably no secret who played Santa Claus for us behind the scenes. It was none other than Holly Robinson Peete, co-host of "The Talk," co-founder of the HollyRod Foundation and Autism Speaks Board Member. Holly and her husband former NFL star Rodney Peete are also the proud parents of four beautiful children including RJ who is 13 years old and has autism. "Santa Holly" started planning the autism series months in advance which is obvious when you see all the segments they produced for the show's Autism Awareness Month.
Holly and her co-hosts kicked off the month on April 1st with a beautiful video about the Peete family's personal journey with autism. After an emotional chat with her fellow cast members, Holly invited me to talk about what families can do following a diagnosis. We discussed the basics of autism, what it is, what causes it, and what resources are available to families including Autism Speaks' 100 Day Kit. At the show's conclusion, audience members were given special blue t-shirts from "The Talk" and many were brought up on stage. After Holly and co-host Julie Chen urged President Obama to light up the White House blue, the ladies of "The Talk" did a countdown which culminated in transforming the set to blue in honor of Autism Speaks Light It Up Blue initiative.
The second installment of "The Talk's" Autism Awareness Month took place on April 8th and featured an Autism Daddy Roundtable with "Criminal Minds" star Joe Mantegna and Holly's husband Rodney Peete. The conversation about a dad's perspective on autism continued with Jimmie Smith, a single father from Baton Rouge who raising two children on his own. He described coming to terms with his son's autism diagnosis. Although mothers are most often the parent who takes primary responsibility for caring for a child with autism, Holly wanted to shine a light on the important role that fathers can and should take, a view not often portrayed.
On April 15th, Holly introduced us to two amazing teenagers who have overcome the challenges of autism to show the world their remarkable talents. Carly Fleischmann shared her remarkable story that captured the world's attention when, after never speaking a word, she found her "voice" through the keypad of her computer. We then met 19 year-old Winfred Cooper and his father who shared Winifred's incredible story accomplishing a 67 yard touchdown in high school football game. The show's autism segment ended with pediatrician Ricki Robinson, MD offering real and practical solutions about transitioning through the teen years. Dr. Robinson is the author of Autism Solutions: How to Create a Healthy and Meaningful Life for Your Child and serves as a member of the Autism Speaks Scientific Review Panel.
The fourth and final autism segment took place on April 22nd. "Amazing Race" teammates Zev Glassenberg and Justin Kanew joined Holly and Julie to chat about doing another season as well as the triumphs and challenges they faced with Zev having Asperger's Syndrome. The next segment featured YouTube sensation Jason McElwain (J-Mac) who shared his inspirational story from 2006 when a high school basketball game changed his life forever. Accompanied by his mom Debra, Jason talked about his life today and his hopes for the future as an adult with autism. Finally, Holly and Leah invited me back to talk about the services adults will need and what society can do to help people with autism and their families lead more fulfilling lives. This afforded me the opportunity to highlight the recently introduced Autism Speaks Transition Tool Kit.
Perhaps the best segment of the month is one that most people haven't seen. After the third show featuring the amazing teens with autism, Holly shared her gratitude with the studio audience while the cameras were still rolling. Throughout her "autism journey," Holly has always taken a strong stand for autism. She genuinely believes in those who live with autism and wants to shine a bright light on their special talents and skills. She believes in listening to people with autism and helping their families care for them as best as possible. In addition to being remarkably talented, Holly is one of the most compassionate and generous celebrities in Hollywood. On behalf of the autism community, thank you "Santa Holly" for giving us the greatest gifts we could ever ask for – believing in our children and advocating for their futures.


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Powerful Donor Management
DonorQuest helps you manage your donors, prospects, board members, foundations, volunteers and any other entities that are involved with your organization. It also enables you to efficiently manage all of these entities, discover new relationships, share information and become a more effective fundraiser (click any screen image to enlarge).
Complete Fundraising Management
Track all of your fundraising efforts including pledges, donations, campaigns, funds, solicitations and contacts with your constituents. Track relationships between donors with linkages feature.
Contact Manager
The DonorQuest contact and grant manager helps you track all interactions with your donors and allow you to set follow up reminders. You can even assign a follow-up to another user in the system.
Data Import and Export
DonorQuest includes a powerful import and export module with the ability to update existing donor records as well as add new donor accounts. You can also export records from DonorQuest to a text file or directly into a spreadsheet.
Donation Statistics and Graphs
Quickly see donation and pledge totals for campaigns and funds. And with the built-in donation graph, it's easy to track total donations by year, month and even week.
Advanced User Management
DonorQuest includes multi-level password protection so you have granular control over what users can see and do in the system. You can even customize the tabs that each user can see and with the multi-user version, it's easy to see who else is logged into the database.
Powerful Query Engine
Use one of the many pre-defined selections or create custom selections. Selections can be powerful for gaining insight into your fundraising activities and includes many of the common queries like LYBUNT (last year but unfortunately not this year) and SYBUNT (some year but unfortunately not this year).
Reports and More Reports
Over 400 stock reports to choose from or create your own with the custom report writer. DonorQuest even includes the ability to import and export report definitions so you can share with another DonorQuest user.
Export to Spreadsheet
Need more analysis? With DonorQuest, you can export any selection to Microsoft Excel for additional analysis and charting. You can even customize which fields are exported so you can work with the information that you want.
In A Nutshell
DonorQuest is a highly customizable Fundraising and Constituent Relationship Management (CRM) solution providing the rich feature set of more expensive systems, without the inflated pricing. We offer cloud-based solutions and traditional in-house installed versions. DonorQuest features an extensive contact management system designed to help you easily schedule interactions between your staff and your top donors, and record detailed notes about each interaction, rescheduling as needed. The dashboard area of DonorQuest shows how many contacts you personally have for today, and that count is updated in realtime as other users create or reassign contacts to your user account based on their own donor interactions. Seeing all of your contacts for today is just a click away, as are filtered contact views for any time period. And unlike other cloud-based systems, DonorQuest lets you see more about each donor at the same time without a bunch of mouse clicks. For example, let's say you're working your way through today's scheduled interactions in DonorQuest, calling donors as you go. As you are on the phone with a donor fulfilling a scheduled interaction (perhaps concerning a large pledge they are considering), you can also see all past contact notes, the donor's full giving history, main biographical information, general notes, or any other aspect of their account, all at the same time in movable resizable windows.
In addition to being a great CRM system, DonorQuest offers everything you would expect in a full donor tracking and fundraising management system, including grant tracking with reminders, monetary donation and volunteer hour tracking, soft credits, matching gifts, memorial giving, pledge tracking with automatic payment reminder statements, automated thank-you letters for each gift, annual giving receipts with actual and tax-dedutible amounts, in-depth analysis reports, and deep Excel integration. Absolutely every report or filtered data view in DonorQuest can be sent directly to an Excel spreadsheet for further analysis. And with DonorQuest we don't charge extra for what should be standard features – such as an advanced data import feature and the ability to customize each and every one of the hundreds of stock reports we have.
With DonorQuest you can dig deep into your donor data with incredibly insightful statistical reports which allow you to determine which of your fundraising efforts have historically been the most effective. For example, the Donor Metrics reporting in DonorQuest allows you to see statistical changes in donor giving between multiple time periods. Metrics shown for each period include Total Number of Donors, Number of New Donors, Number of Repeat Donors, Total Number of Donations, Dollar Total of Donations, Average Donation Amount, and Average Number of Gifts Per Donor, all with percent changes between periods. In addition to these metrics being shown in total for each period, the same metrics are also broken down by donation amount range within each time period. All aspects of the report are customizable, including the specific time periods compared, and the specific donation amount ranges shown.
An important point of difference with DonorQuest is that you have a choice of either a cloud-based system or a traditional in-house system, with the added advantage of being able to move between the two solutions at anytime. While our cloud solution offers the solid advantage of enabling you to securely access your donor information from anywhere on any device, you are never locked into it. You could switch to the in-house version at anytime, and vice-versa. Your data is forever yours and never held hostage as it is with the cloud-only offerings of other vendors and the associated monthly fees. And when it comes to the monthly fees for our cloud solution, our pricing is unmatched. We charge by the number of concurrent user connections, and the first 200,000 constituent records are included at no additional cost! Take a look at the pricing from the other vendors – you will find they typically charge $500 or more per month for a modest database of just 25,000 constituent records. Really? What about when you grow to 50,000 or 100,000 constituents? With DonorQuest the monthly cost would remain the same as your database experiences typical healthy growth, and a basic cloud package with six concurrent user access is only $210 per month (our cloud pricing starts at $70 per month). All of our plans include an unlimited number of user accounts (people authorized to access the cloud system), but you only pay for the maximum number of people you need to have logged in at the same time.
We look forward to talking with you!
System Requirements
DonorQuest Online will work with any of the following:
- A Windows PC Running Windows XP or later.
- An Apple Mac running OS X Version 10.6 or higher.
- Any Google Chromebook.
- Any Linux machine.
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To use the in-house version of DonorQuest for Windows, you need:
- For single user version, any PC running Windows 2000, XP, 7, 8, or 10.
- For multi-user version, same as above for workstations, server may be Windows Server 2003, 2008, 2012, or Linux.
- A high-speed in-house wired ethernet connection to an in-house server for all workstations running DonorQuest.
- 30 MB of available hard-disk space for the program installation, plus 20 KB of disk space (on average) for each donor record.
- Internet connection for initial installation and subsequent updates.
- 1024 by 768 or greater screen resolution.
- (Optional) Word processing application, such as Microsoft Word for mail merges
- (Optional) Spreadsheet application, such as Microsoft Excel for spreadsheet analysis
See more features: DonorQuest Feature List
See the complete DonorQuest User's Guide: Complete DonorQuest User's Guide


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|Relise Date:
|May 28, 2013
|Digital Playground
|Selena Rose, Nikki Seven, Tara Lynn Foxx, London Keys, Mick Blue, Giovanni Francesco, Karlo Karrera, Mr. Pete, James Deen
|Robby D.
She can talk you into anything!
Do you believe in the power of hypnosis? Seductive Selena Rose does! As a recent graduate of Mick Blue's hypnotherapy class, she is convinced by Mick that she has the power of persuasion. While Mick is mainly looking to scam the luscious Latina out of a few bucks, he also scores a super hot sex session with the model. With her new found power Selena is able to convince Giovanni Francesco to dip into his hot girlfriend Tara Lynn Foxx for a pleasurable pussy stretching. Karlo Karrera is in need of a deep dicking from hung stud Mr. Pete. Selena distracts Karlo by serving up an erotic encounter. When Selena's friend Nikki Seven is having a tiff with her boyfriend, James Deen, Selena offers some advice to bring them back together for some hardcore make up sex. Selena has the power, or so she thinks, of Hypnosis!


text: AIGA, the American Institute of Graphic Design is the professional organization of Design. The Washburn students have a student group affiliated with the Kansas City Chapter. AIGA, the professional association for design, is committed to furthering excellence in design as a broadly defined discipline, strategic tool for business and cultural force. It is comprised of 23,000 members nationally with chapters all over the country.


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By Bettina Sementilli of Cross Sport Woman
High humidity and impending storms are not exactly ideal racing conditions, but 16 year old Benjamin Barton of Bedford smashed his record from last year with a blistering 18:03 win at the Katonah 5K on Saturday.
With a record turnout of over 250 participants, our running community came out in full force to show their support for our Katonah and Bedford Hills libraries raising a grand total of $5000!
Kicking off the event was local singing talent Victoria Dennis who sang a heartfelt rendition of our national anthem to rousing applause.
At the sound of Frank Greene's whistle, we were off! The pace was quick at the start with a flat and a downhill leading to the first hill at Wildwood. The soft cushioning of Katonah Park's trails followed to help cool down runners and pick up the pace.
Then the hills of Katonah challenged us with their relentless assault on our lungs and legs. Did anyone even notice the smiley face painted on Terrace Street?
With less than a mile to go, the flats at the top of Terrace and New Streets were a welcome relief, but it wasn't over. After the turn onto Huntville, the last half mile seemed endless with another hill and no finish line in sight.
Once over the final hill, you could hear the crowd cheering and Frank's voice announcing runners as they came in. The final sprint to the finish signaled the end (for this runner) to a great race!
The Kids' One Miler quickly followed with Shane Cotter of North Salem leading the pack.
And, of course, honorable mention must be given to the tots who waited very patiently while 5K awards were presented. Don't worry kids, you won't have to wait next year!
New and veteran runners turned out for this popular local race. It has been a pleasure meeting young, new runners like Pippa Nuttall of Katonah, who at 11 years old, ran her third 5K in as many weeks. Pippa posted a time of 22:17, placing first in her age group and third overall in the women's category! Or Shirley Copeland who at 52 ran her first 5K and loved it.
This race would not have happened without the effort and determination of our terrific team led by Race Director Annie Bai, Frank Greene (our Chief Routing Officer and MC extraordinaire) and Mike Berardino. Both Frank and Mike's past race experience provided invaluable support and guidance. As for myself, as Frank says, I was Annie's "spiritual guide and inspiration" and I suppose that's as good as it gets. But designing race shirts, picking out medals and helping others do their best was a great perk as well. Katonah Elementary School also kindly provided a venue for us to hold our race this year and we are grateful. A donation of $100 was presented to the KES PTO for their generosity in allowing us to share their annual 5th grade car wash day with them. Lastly, a race would be nothing without its sponsors and many businesses helped to make this race possible, so "Shop Local!".
This is a wonderful community that, as a new business owner, I am very proud to be a part of. Katonah has shown itself to be a warm, welcoming town full of folks with generous hearts. I hope to continue to be a part of this race as long as possible and more importantly, a part of this amazing community.
List of Sponsors: Bedford Hills Chamber of Commerce; Katonah Chamber of Commerce; Cross Sport Woman; State Farm- Mike Berardino; Katonah Village Improvement Society; Oestricher, Ennis, Dalrymple, Dalrymple,LLP; Frank Veith- Esq; Katonah Art Center; Katonah Wine & Liquor; Ricci Greene Associates; Indian Auto Collision; Katonah Insurance Agency; Premier Physical Therapy; Saw Mill Club; Bedford 2020/Energize Bedford; Bedford Hills Lions Club; Bedford Hills Family Chiropractic ("Dr Stu"); Blue Dolphin Restaurant; Charles Department Store; Christina Dochtermann- Realtor; Complete Nutrition; Enterprise Rent-A-Car; First Niagara Bank; Jodi's Gym; Katonah Memorial Park Association; Katonah Podiatry; Katonah Restaurant; Kelloggs & Lawrence; Law Offices of Judith Reardon- Esq; Little Joe's Books; Marti Martial Arts; Muscoot Tavern; Northern Westchester Auto Body; Satori Spa; Scaglio's Market; Sign*A*Rama Westchester North; TrustCo Bank; Verizon Wireless Zone; Vogler Bros Septic Tank; Weinstein's Pharmacy; Westchester Health Associates.
Special Thanks to: Geller-Tannenbaum Family, McLaughlin Family, Sandlund Family, Susan Warsaw , Petitti-Kornel Family, Robert and Kirsten Cummings, Trisha and Santiago Rozas, Roberta Kelleher, Brian Stempel, the Bedford Police and last, but not least, the Boy Scouts and race course volunteers who helped steer runners in the right direction!
See more great race photos on the Katonah 5K Road & Trail Race Facebook page.


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Please, Sir, May I Have Some More Angry Demons!
I love scary movies. Not in the way you'd love baby kittens or a pony, but in the sadomasochistic fashion where I enjoy the rush of adrenalin that zips through my body moments before I have the ever-lovin' bejeezus scared out of me by some sort of heart-stopping, poop-your-pants boogeyman on the big screen. Over the last few years, this addiction has been thoroughly satiated by Paranormal Activity and Paranormal Activity 2. These voyeuristic haunted house movies make me laugh and tinkle in my shorts. I get another opportunity to embarrass myself this October when Paranormal Activity 3 hits theaters (October 21, 2011 to be exact).
We don't know a lot about PA3, but the teaser trailer (see below) gives us some clues. Apparently this outing is a prequel (18 years before the first two Paranormal Activity flicks) and we get to see just what Katie and Kristi did to have an angry demon stalking them 24/7. Hint: playing Bloody Mary in the bathroom does not bode well for you if you're looking to live a demon-free life. Another interesting tidbit: Paranormal Activity 3 is directed by Ariel Schulman and Henry Joost. Not household names, but if you've seen the buzzed about documentary Catfish, then I would suspect PA3 is in good hands.
3 Comments
20 August 11, 7:51pm
Are they stupid?! "Hey Kristi lets go say bloody Mary a couple of times and make an angry demon come into our home." "Okay Katie." Really?! I'm sorry I know it isn't real but seriously no little girl would do that! Trust me I would know! Do you know why? One because it is dark and it's Bloody Mary! Why would I say that? Other than that it looks really good and scary and one of those movies where somehow the hairs on my arms are taller than me.
20 August 11, 11:51pm
Emma, that is because you are a good girl…. I remember in second grade all the girls sneaking into the bathroom to try out the bloody mary thing! I am pretty sure I am haunted, so I advise against it.:)
21 August 11, 3:07pm
Oh so I bet you are the one that brought the ghost into our house! For shame ma'dam for shame!!!!!!!


text: This is a message from Jan Green on John's email This morning at Stoney Point, Duluth Township, I found three Black-backed Woodpeckers and one American Three-toed Woodpecker feed in the large spruce trees at the tip of the point and also along the Alseth Red. The weather was dead calm and sunny. Also there: Horned Grebe 1 Bald Eagle 1 Red-tailed Hawk 2 Herring Gull 3 Downy Woodpecker 3 Hairy Woodpecker 3 Pileated Woodpecker 1 American Crow 1 Common Raven 1 Black-capped Chickadee 25-30 migrating American Robin 15 migraating Dark-eyed Junco 20 Snow Bunting 5 Jan Green


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Can you believe it's the first weekend in March? Although it's not warm here quite yet, I'm looking forward to enjoying plenty of time outside to enjoy some sun! D & I started out the weekend with a huge breakfast (crab omelettes have become a Saturday tradition around here) and plan to head out in a bit to stop by a few local haunts and meet up with friends. The past week flew by, but the highlight was a no-brainer: Thursday's event at Patina Studios. The group there was a perfect mix of creatives, bloggers, and stylists and I was thrilled to spend the evening with many talented people. I bumped into a few old friends like Michelle Edgemont (you may remember her when she stopped by to share insight on building a brand) and met new friends as well. The theme of the event was…(wait for it)… Roller Rink! Meaning, we all laced up a pair of skates and were transported to a blast from the past. You can't tell from this picture, but my skating skills were… well, let's just say I was reminded that coordination isn't my strong suit. Nonetheless it was such a clever concept for a party!
A few links I found around the web that I hope provide inspiration for your weekend:
- If you're a citrus lover like me, you may also have a hard time deciding which of Joy's three drinks to test out first. Which shall we all try?
- If you don't want to wait until Girl Scout Cookie season, try making them yourself at home!
- Jo shares a few great tips to prepare for houseguests.
- It's no secret I have a huge sweet tooth, but kale and brussels sprouts happen to be two of my favorite health foods so I think I'm going to make this salad this week.
- You must try the recipe for the picture of the doughnuts above. Don't they look divine?
*Image via How Sweet Eats


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Birth Defects Epidemiology & SurveillanceMail Code 1964P.O. Box 149347Austin, TX 78714-9347
Phone: 512-776-7232
Fax: 512-776-7330
Email comments or questions
Click here for an Adobe PDF version of this document. (137KB PDF, Viewing Information)
NEW: Please take a moment to evaluate our birth defects risk factor series. Click here to take survey.
More on NTDs in Texas.
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are a group of birth defects presumed to have a common origin in failure of the neural tube to develop properly during the embryonic stage. NTDs are comprised mainly of anencephaly (including craniorachischisis), spina bifida (including meningomyelocele, meningocele, and myelocele), and encephalocele. Anencephaly involves absence of the skull, with the cerebral hemispheres completely missing or reduced to small masses attached to the base of the skull. Spina bifida (which includes myelomeningocele and meningomyelocele) is defective closure of the bony encasement of the spinal cord, through which the cord and meninges may or may not protrude. Encephalocele is protrusion of some or all of the brain through a defect in the skull.
Approximately 10% or less of NTDs are associated with chromosomal abnormalities (O'Reilly and Shields, 2000). The most common types of chromosomal abnormalities include trisomy 18, trisomy 13, trisomy 21, triploidy, and Turner syndrome.
Over the last several decades, women carrying a fetus with an open NTD have been found to have elevated maternal serum levels of alpha-fetoprotein and reduced levels of human chorionic gonadotropin and unconjugated estriol (Canick and Saller, 1993). Prenatal screening of these substances, along with ultrasonography (Vintzileos et al., 1987), have allowed neural tube defects (NTDs) to be identified in utero. Studies from various birth defects surveillance systems have found that, in regions where elective termination is allowed, prenatal diagnosis and elective termination reduce the birth prevalence of NTDs, with the reduction being greater for anencephaly than for spina bifida (Boyd et al., 2000; Owen et al., 2000; Whiteman et al., 2000; Hendricks et al., 1999; Forrester and Merz, 2000a; Riley et al., 1998; Alembik et al., 1997; Velie and Shaw, 1996; Alembik et al., 1995; CDC, 1995; Roberts et al., 1995; Stoll and EUROCAT Working Group, 1995; Stoll et al., 1995; Julian-Reynier et al., 1994; Bower et al., 1993; Stoll et al., 1992; EUROCAT Working Group, 1991).
Some studies suggest that certain risk factors appear to have greater impact among populations with higher background rates for NTDs than among populations with lower background rates (Little and Elwood, 1991). Also, the etiology of NTDs is very heterogeneic, with the impact of a given risk factor varying by the types of NTD and the presence or absence of other defects (Holmes et al., 1976; Khoury et al., 1982; Sever, 1995). The neural tube closes by approximately the 28th day of gestation (Campbell et al., 1986; Lemire, 1988), so any potential exposures suspected to have caused an NTD would have to have occurred within the first month of gestation.
There are racial/ethnic differences in risk for NTDs. In the United States, NTD prevalence has been reported to be highest among Hispanics, followed in descending order by non-Hispanic whites, Native Americans, African-Americans, and Asians (Owen et al., 2000; Hendricks et al., 1999; Canfield et al., 1996a; Shaw et al., 1994; CDC, 1992; Chavez et al., 1988). One investigation observed no significant difference in risk of anencephaly and spina bifida in infants born to Vietnamese women compared with infants born to non-Hispanic white women in California (Shaw et al., 2002a). Another study reported no significant difference in NTD rates among whites, Far East Asians, Pacific Islanders, and Filipinos (Forrester and Merz, 2000b). Differences in racial/ethnic rates may be due to differences in genetic susceptibility to NTDs, cultural behaviors, diet, or other factors.
Secular trends have been observed in NTD prevalence since the 1970s. Overall, rates for anencephaly and spina bifida have declined in North America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand (McDonnell et al., 1999; CDC, 1992; Yen et al., 1992; Little and Elwood, 1991; Campbell et al., 1986), although one study reported an increase in NTD rates in the 1980's-1990's (Forrester and Merz, 2000b). The proportion of NTDs that were electively terminated increased with time in some regions studied (Whiteman et al., 2000; CDC, 1995; Bower et al., 1993; EUROCAT Working Group, 1991). Thus, some of this decline in NTD prevalence may be attributable to increased prenatal diagnosis and elective termination of NTD-affected pregnancies. However, this trend was observed prior to the widespread use of prenatal diagnosis and has occurred in areas where elective termination is not allowed.
Prevalence of NTDs shows wide variation by geographic location, both within and between countries. Also, the distribution of the types of NTDs can vary between regions (Forrester and Merz, 2000b). Berry et al., 1999; Hendricks et al., 1999; Moore et al., 1997; Little and Elwood, 1991). NTD rates in the United States and Canada have shown a decrease from east to west (Little and Elwood, 1991; Campbell et al., 1986). Anencephaly prevalence is generally lower in continental Europe than in the British Isles, and shows a decrease from west to east. NTD rates in Australia and New Zealand are similar to those reported for North America and continental Europe (Little and Elwood, 1991). Rates of anencephaly in Asia have been reported to be comparable to those of other regions outside the British Isles, while spina bifida prevalence was lower in Asia than elsewhere (Little and Elwood, 1991). However, NTD prevalence in northern China has been reported to be among the highest in the world (Moore et al., 1997). Some of these reported differences in geographical location prevalence may be due to differences in racial/ethnic compositions of the populations.
One investigation found risk of anencephaly and spina bifida, but not encephalocele, to be higher with lower altitude (Castilla et al., 1999).
Seasonal variations in NTD rates have been reported by some studies but not others (Castilla et al., 1990; Bound et al., 1989).
A number of studies have reported maternal age risk for NTDs to be U-shaped, i.e., highest among youngest and oldest women, while other studies have found risk to decrease with increasing age or the reverse (Owen et al., 2000; Hendricks et al., 1999; McDonnell et al., 1999; Little and Elwood, 1991; Campbell et al., 1986), or clear maternal age trend (Forrester and Merz, 2000b). Paternal age has not been clearly linked to NTD risk (Shaw et al., 1994; Little and Elwood, 1991), although one investigation identified increased NTD risk with lowest and highest paternal age groups (McIntosh et al., 1995).
Parity has shown either a U-shaped pattern of NTD risk, i.e., risk being higher for the lowest and highest number of births (Little and Elwood, 1991; Campbell et al., 1986) or increasing risk with increasing parity (Owen et al., 2000; Whiteman et al., 2000).
NTD risk seems to be greater if a woman has had a previous fetal or infant death, even if the previous infant or fetus did not have an NTD (Owen et al., 2000; Whiteman et al., 2000; Canfield et al., 1996b; Little and Elwood, 1991; Myrianthopoulos and Melnick, 1987). However, it is not clear to what extent recall bias or an undiagnosed NTD in the previous fetal death may contribute to this observation (Little and Elwood, 1991). Moreover, not all investigations have reported this association (Todoroff and Shaw, 2000). Studies examining a potential link between the length of time between pregnancies and NTD risk have also found mixed results (Todoroff and Shaw, 2000). NTD risk does not appear to be related to subfertility (Whiteman et al., 2000).
NTD rates may also be higher among multiple births and with lower birth weight (Owen et al., 2000; Whiteman et al., 2000; Mastroiacovo et al., 1999; Riley et al., 1998; Doyle et al., 1991; Mili et al., 1991; Ramos-Arroyo, 1991) and lower gestational age at delivery (Rasmussen et al., 2001; Shaw et al., 2001a). However, one study reported no relationship between NTD risk and plurality (Kalen, 1986). NTDs have also been associated with intrauterine growth retardation (Khoury et al., 1988). One investigation reported increased risk of encephalocele but not anencephaly or spina bifida with macrosomia (Waller et al., 2001), while another found no association between large for gestational age and anencephaly, spina bifida, or encephalocele (Lapunzina et al., 2002).
Infant sex influences the risk for NTDs. Females are more likely than males to have anencephaly and spina bifida, with the difference greater for the latter defect. This preponderance among females appears to be influenced by the presence of additional birth defects, geographical area, and other factors (Lary and Paulozzi, 2001; Forrester and Merz, 2000b; Whiteman et al., 2000; McDonnell et al., 1999; Hendricks et al., 1999; Berry et al., 1999; Riley et al., 1998; Canfield et al., 1996a; Little and Elwood, 1991). Potential explanations for the preponderance among females include differences between the sexes in embryonic development, susceptibility to teratogenic insult, and spontaneous abortion rates (Little and Elwood, 1991).
The recurrence risk for NTDs is approximately 3-4%, with the risk being slightly higher if the prior infant or fetus had anencephaly (Little and Elwood, 1991). However, 95% of infants with NTDs are born to parents with no family history of the defect. With respect to consanguinity, NTD rates have been found to be higher when the parents are related (Little and Elwood, 1991), although not all studies identified this association (Rittler et al., 2001; Stoltenberg et al., 1997).
Various studies have suggested that NTD risk is higher among families of lower socioeconomic status, although other studies failed to support this (Vrijheid et al., 2000; Wasserman et al., 1998; Little and Elwood, 1991).
Hyperthermia, due to fever or use of saunas and hot tubs, has been linked to increased risk of NTDs, particularly spina bifida, although the results are not consistent (Shaw et al., 1998; Lynberg et al., 1994; Milunsky et al., 1992; Little and Elwood, 1991). Several studies (Shaw et al., 1999a; Dlugosz et al., 1992) found that periconceptional use of electric bed-heating devices (electric blankets, bed warmers, and heated waterbeds) did not appear to affect risk for NTDs.
Women with diabetes are at increased risk for having an infant with a birth defect. The results of several studies suggest that this increased risk applies to NTDs in particular (Janssen et al., 1996; Ramos-Arroyo et al., 1992; Little and Elwood, 1991; Becerra et al., 1990; Myrianthopoulos and Melnick, 1987), although other studies reported no association between maternal diabetes and NTDs (Aberg et al., 2001). Maternal common cold in the first trimester of pregnancy has been reported to increase risk of anencephaly and spina bifida (Zhang and Cai, 1993). Hypothyroidism does not appear to be associated with NTDs, although risk of encephalocele but not spina bifida or anencephaly may be increased with hyperthyroidism (Khoury et al., 1989).
Maternal weight has been associated with NTD risk. Obesity has been linked to increased NTD rates (Kalen, 1998; Shaw et al., 1996; Watkins et al., 1996; Werler et al., 1996; Waller et al., 1994). However, a more recent study failed to find any association between maternal weight and NTD risk (Feldman et al., 1999). The authors of the latter study have suggested that the earlier studies may have suffered from bias in recording of maternal weight or selection of controls. One investigation identified increased risk of NTDs with maternal hyperinsulinemia and suggested that this association may at least partially account for the observed association between maternal obesity and NTD risk (Hendricks et al., 2001). Another study reported higher NTD rates among women who gained less weight during pregnancy (Shaw et al., 2001b). Since weight gain during early pregnancy, the time when NTDs occur, is small and is not consistent, it is not likely that low weight gain is causal for NTDs. More likely, carrying an NTD-affected fetus caused low weight gain throughout the pregnancy, or both conditions are the consequence of a common factor.
Maternal psychosocial or emotional stress during pregnancy may increase risk of having an infant with an NTD (Carmichael and Shaw, 2000).
Epilepsy, and valproic acid and carbamazepine, medications used to treat epilepsy, have been found to increase risk of spina bifida (Arpino et al., 2000; Owen et al., 2000; Lindhout and Omtzigt, 1994; Little and Elwood, 1991). Risk of spina bifida may be related to dosage and to antiepileptic medications used in combination (Lindhout and Omtzigt, 1994). The relationship between maternal smoking and NTD prevalence is unclear (Wasserman et al., 1996; Little and Elwood, 1991; Van Den Eeden et al., 1990; Ericson et al., 1988). One study found not link between paternal smoking and NTD risk (Wasserman et al., 1996).
Increased NTD prevalence has not been associated with maternal infection (Little and Elwood, 1991), alcohol (Little and Elwood, 1991), caffeine (Rosenberg et al., 1982), vitamin A (Mills et al., 1997; Shaw et al., 1997), oral contraceptives (Little and Elwood, 1991), contraceptive spermicides (Louik et al., 1987), ovulation-inducing drugs (Werler et al., 1994), subfertility treatments such as Clomiphene (Whiteman et al., 2000), cough medicines containing dextromethorphan (Martinez-Frias and Rodriguez-Pinilla, 2001), or illicit drugs (Little and Elwood, 1991). A recent study reported increased risk of spina bifida with maternal tea consumption (Correa et al., 2000). NTDs have been associated with maternal use of the antibiotic oxytetracycline but not cephalosporin antibiotics during pregnancy (Czeizel et al., 2001a; Czeizel and Rockenbauer, 2000). Recent studies reported no association between maternal use of nalidixic acid, used to treat bacterial infections, oral antituberculosis medications, or ampicillin and NTDs (Czeizel et al., 2001b; Czeizel et al., 2001c; Czeizel et al., 2001d). A case-control study failed to identify any association between encephalocele risk and misoprostol, a synthetic prostaglandin used for elective termination (Orioli and Castilla, 2000). Another investigation reported no relationship between maternal use of calcium channel blockers and NTDs (Sorensen et al., 2001). Maternal use of the benzodiazepines nitrazepam, medazepam, tofisopam, alprazolum, and clonazepam have not been associated with NTD risk (Eros et al., 2002).
Maternal occupation and maternal exposures have not been clearly or consistently linked to increased NTD risk (Little and Elwood, 1991). However, one study reported increased risk for women working in agricultural occupations or as cleaning women (Blatter et al., 1996). Another investigation identified higher risk of anencephaly and spina bifida with maternal nursing occupation (Matte et al., 1993). One study noted no significant association between NTDs and a variety of paternal occupations (Irgens et al., 2000).
NTD prevalence is increased among women who may have been exposed to glycol ethers (Cordier et al., 1997) and occupational radiation (Sever, 1995; Matte et al., 1993). The literature on the relationship between NTDs and anesthetic gases have reported conflicting results (Sylvester et al., 1994; Matte et al., 1993). Arsenic and lead have also been proposed as potential risk factors for NTDs (Irgens et al., 1998; Bound et al., 1997; Shalat et al., 1996). However, a recent investigation found no association between levels of lead in the water and NTD rates and suggested that previous associations may have been confounded by socioeconomic factors (Macdonell et al., 2000). Another investigation reported higher levels of lead in the amniotic fluid of NTD-affected pregnancies than in pregnancies without NTDs (Dawson et al., 1999). NTDs have not been positively associated with combined chemical exposures (Shaw et al., 2001c).
Paternal exposure to radiation, solvents, pesticides, and mercury, and paternal occupation as a painter have been tentatively linked to increased NTD risk (Sever, 1995), although other investigations reported no association between paternal exposure to pesticides and ionizing radiation and NTDs (Doyle et al., 2000; Shaw et al., 1999b). Several studies have reported increased risk of spina bifida as a result of paternal exposure to the herbicides (including Agent Orange) used in Vietnam (Wolfe et al., 1995; Erickson et al., 1984). Higher rates of spina bifida have also been reported from pesticide use by parental farmers (Kristensen et al., 1997). Increased risk of NTDs has also been reported for pesticides applied to homes (Shaw et al., 1999b).
Living in proximity to hazardous waste sites, landfill sites, and agricultural crops has been reported to increase NTD risk (Elliott et al., 2001; Shaw et al., 1999b; Dolk et al., 1998; Croen et al., 1997; Sever, 1995), as have drinking water contaminants such as disinfection byproducts (Klotz and Pyrch, 1999; Bove et al., 1995; Sever, 1995). However, not all studies reported an association between water disinfection byproducts or chlorination and NTDs (Jaakkola et al., 2001; Kallen and Robert, 2000; Doddes et al., 1999). A recent study found increased risk of anencephaly, but not spina bifida, with exposure to nitrate in drinking water but not in the diet (Croen et al., 2001). Another study reported an association between bromodichloromethane but not chloroform in drinking water and NTDs (Dodds and King, 2001). One investigation reported higher rates of anencephaly with proximity to textile industry, spina bifida with proximity to soap and detergents, iron and steel, machinery, photographic, and rubber industries, and encephalocele with proximity to fur dressing and dyeing industry (Castilla et al., 2000). Another study found increased risk of spina bifida with maternal occupational exposure to electromagnetic fields and increased risk of anencephaly with paternal occupational exposure to electromagnetic fields; however, exposure was based on linkage to census data and exposure assessments by an expert panel (Blaasaas et al., 2002).
Maternal periconceptional use of folic acid has been found to reduce the risk of both recurrent and occurrent NTDs (Locksmith and Diff, 1998; Watkins, 1998; Czeizel et al., 1996). This reduction occurs both in regions of high NTD rates and in regions of low NTD rates (Berry et al., 1999), although several studies have found reduction in risk to be more modest among Hispanics (Suarez et al., 2000; Shaw et al., 1995). This association between NTDs and folic acid is supported by research that has shown that folic acid antagonists, such as aminopterin, methotrexate, valproic acid, carbamazepine, and trimethoprim may increase NTD risk (Czeizel et al., 2001e; Hernandez-Diaz et al., 2001; Campbell et al., 1986). However, a study that examined co-trimoxazole, a combination of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole that is a folic acid antagonist, failed to find any association between the medication and NTDs (Czeizel, 1990). Also, thalassemia carriers frequently have low folate levels. One study found a higher NTD risk among thalassemia carriers (Lam and Tang, 1999). It is not known whether folic acid reduces risk of NTDs associated with antiepileptic medications (Lindhout and Omtzigt, 1994).
Exactly how folic acid prevents NTDs is not clear. Folic acid may not reduce NTD risk to the same degree in all racial/ethnic groups (Suarez et al., 2000; Shaw et al., 1995), suggesting that a genetic component may be involved. Recent investigations have suggested that the influence of folic acid use may relate to defects in homocysteine metabolism such as mutations in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene (De Marco et al., 2001; Martinez de Villarreal et al., 2001; Volcik et al., 2000; Finnell et al., 1998; Ou et al., 1996; Mills et al., 1995; van der Put et al., 1995; Whitehead; 1995). One study observed an association between reduced folate carrier protein (RFC) gene polymorphism and NTD risk (De Marco et al., 2001), while another study found no such association between the gene and spina bifida (Shaw et al., 2002b). A recent study (Velie and Shaw, 1999) has also suggested that periconceptional intake of zinc can reduce NTD risk, and another study reported methionine use decreases NTD risk (Shoob et al., 2000).
A recent investigation reported no association between mutations in the transcription factor gene ZIC2 and neural tube defects. However, the data did suggest a potential association between a histidine tract polymorphism in the gene and neural tube defects (Brown et al., 2002).
Please Note: The primary purpose of this report is to provide background necessary for conducting cluster investigations. It summarizes literature about risk factors associated with this defect. The strengths and limitations of each reference were not critically examined prior to inclusion in this report. Consumers and professionals using this information are advised to consult the references given for more in-depth information.
This report is for information purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat, or prevent disease or other conditions and is not intended to provide a determination or assessment of the state of health. Individuals affected by this condition should consult their physician and when appropriate, seek genetic counseling.
For more information: Birth Defects Epidemiology and Surveillance
Texas Department of State Health Services 1100 W. 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756512-776-7232 Fax 512-776-7330
Return to Birth Defects Risk Factor Page
Birth Defects Epidemiology and Surveillance
Texas Department of State Health Services 1100 W. 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756512-776-7232 Fax 512-776-7330
Return to Birth Defects Risk Factor Page
Document E58-10957H Revised May 2006.
Birth Defects Epidemiology and Surveillance Home Page
Document E58-10957H Revised May 2006.
Birth Defects Epidemiology and Surveillance Home Page
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The son of an established singer-songwriter, Albert Hammond Jr. has followed in his father's footsteps to enjoy a flourishing music career. At the age of 18, Hammond became a founding member of The Strokes--one of the quintessential garage bands of the early 2000s--but his 2006 solo debut, "Yours to Keep," proved that the talented guitarist can stand on his own. Scan the tour schedule above to see when this guitarist will be performing hits like "In Transit" and "St. Justice" in your area. When you click the red button next to a concert, you can view available Albert Hammond Jr. tickets for that date. After you choose, enter your delivery and payment details on the checkout page and click "Place Order." We'll pass the request on to the seller for final approval.
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The Sinusitis Treatment For All Types
November 25, 2011 by Blondell Wahba
Filed under Health Fitness
Sinusitis is a usual mildew and is mostly called nasal congestion. This condition happens when there is an inflammation on the nasal sinuses which is due to allergies and infections. The infections are mostly viral and can simply be treated with colour inside of 5 to ten day. There is a need to demeanour for sinusitis treatment given a lot of complications competence start if this one is left untreated. Both medical and natural treatment could be required in sequence to entirely treat the condition and forestall yourself from multiform complications.
This nasal overload can possibly be strident or chronic. Acute sinusitis will be left after a month whilst ongoing will go on to endure more than a month. The symptoms are identical for both sorts and to illustrate kind of hard to heed which is which. The length of time is one decding factor for the classification.
Acute sinusitis routinely happens after an top respiratory tract infection which is in all caused by a virus. In other cases, the causative agent could be mildew and this infection is customarily seen in diabetic patients. This one is life melancholy and to illustrate needs evident treatment. Other causes embody containing alkali exasperation such as the fume in cigarettes and other fumes.
The second sort which is called ongoing will last up to 3 months and even more. This customarily starts up from diseases which have sinusitis as symptoms. Once the mildew is not cured, this nasal overload might go on to endure and other symptoms such as facial pain, dizziness, toothache, and headache will manifest.
Nowadays, a flourishing discuss per the purpose of fungi in ongoing sinusitis is well debated. Others explain which given fungi are found in the nasal cavities of people with sinusitis and people but this, as well, afterwards there is a probability which a mildew does not play the purpose of being a causative agent to nasal congestion.
As mentioned, it is not so easy to establish what sort of overload the studious has. The very reason for this is which the symptoms are very identical to both types. Facial pain, headache, tooth ache, and dizziness, can perceptible in both conditions. Thus, medical tests are indispensable to endorse the diagnosis.
There are other probable infections which could occur. This will embody infections in the middle ear and eye hollow which mostly leads to blindness. When a person has this infection, heat and diseases will go on to perceptible until this one is cured. Other infection will be on the skeleton in the front and face which creates the studious dizzy.
Sinusitis treatment can be done regulating antibiotics and antiviral given the main causes of this mildew are virus and bacteria. If the symptoms will go on to endure after ten days after receiving antibiotics, you right away have to use both aerobic and anaerobic antibiotics. The natural way is to quit eating or celebration dairy products. After this, you can take in one list ladle of apple cider old wine in one potion of water. After one week, you will comply which your sinus drainage will dump down.
Get most more believe on natural sinusitis cure by starting to biogetica.com.


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A Doll's House
by Henrik Ibsen
A Doll's House Marriage Quotes
How we cite our quotes: (Act.Line) Every time a character talks counts as one line, even if what they say turns into a long monologue.
Quote #1
NORA: "How painful and humiliating it would be for Torvald […] to know that he owed me anything! It would upset our mutual relations altogether." (1.197)
The Helmers' marriage is based on maintaining a veneer of male dominance.
Quote #2
NORA: "Christine is […] is frightfully anxious to work under some clever man, so as to perfect herself—" (1.282)
Nora's relationship with her husband seems to be built on careful manipulation of his ego.
Quote #3
NORA: "But don't you think it is nice of me, too, to do as you wish?"
HELMER: "Nice?—because you do as your husband wishes? Well, well, you little rogue, I am sure you did not mean it in that way." (2.82-2.83)
Comments like this from Torvald demonstrate that the Helmers are in a lopsided marriage.


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Kodak has announced that it will be attending this year's annual Packaging and Converting Executive (PACE) Forum, to be held in Brussels, Belgium, from 12 - 14 February. In a series of one-to-one meetings with brand owners Kodak will be discussing the benefits of implementing Kodak Technology in the packaging supply chain, with a specific focus on the benefits that the innovative and award-winning KODAK FLEXCEL NX System brings to flexographic print production. The FLEXCEL NX System is Kodak's flagship solution in its broad portfolio of Packaging Solutions and is enjoying rapid industry adoption.
In these highly competitive times brand owners can benefit from a fast growing global network of providers, equipped with leading-edge KODAK FLEXCEL NX Plate or System Technology, that can deliver gravure and offset-like print quality with the flexibility and cost effectiveness of flexo. Flexo printing has truly never looked so good or been capable of such consistency and predictability – excellent news for brand marketeers. A unique technical approach to digital flexo platemaking, the Kodak solution delivers high-contrast, vibrant print with colours that 'pop', while at the same time significantly reducing production variables and waste.
Grant Blewett, EAMER (Europe, Africa, Middle East and Russia) Strategic Accounts Manager, Packaging, Kodak said, "Events such as PACE provide an excellent opportunity for us to talk directly with brand owners, about the impact that our technology can have on product visual appearance, reducing production complexity and increasing overall return on marketing investment.
"We are confident in our technology and have gained significant experience in recent years supporting customers with countless new product launches and SKU conversions - the positive response has been overwhelming. Supporting the packaging supply chain with the implementation of this new technology is a high priority for us. Brand owners can be confident that we stand 100% behind their suppliers."
The PACE Forum, which takes place annually, focuses on improving communication, and encouraging increased collaboration and business continuity by assisting the supply chain to better align its capabilities with the needs of the brand owner. The Forum combines visionary keynote presentations, master classes and one-to-one private business development meetings to seamlessly provide a unique, interactive experience for all those that attend.
For further information on Kodak's Packaging Solutions, please go to www.kodak.com/go/packaging.
About Kodak
Kodak is a technology company focused on imaging for business. Kodak serves customers with disruptive technologies and breakthrough solutions for the product goods packaging, graphic communications and functional printing industries. The company also offers leading products and services in Entertainment Imaging and Commercial Films. For additional information on Kodak, visit us at kodak.com, follow us on Twitter @Kodak, or like us on Facebook at KodakNow.


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The National Weather Service has issued a hazardous weather warning for all three counties in the Lake area as storms are anticipated to roll across the region throughout the day. Expected weather hazards include elevated tornado risk, significant hail risk, elevated thunderstorm wind damage risk, flooding risk, significant lightning risk and non-thunderstorm wind risk.
Thunderstorms continue to hit the lake area in early afternoon. Flooding is a risk and a warning has been issued in Morgan and Miller counties. Several low water crossings in the Versailles area were already flooding early this morning.
A tornado watch is in effect for the entire area until 5 p.m. as more storms are expected to converge on the region later today.
A second round of severe weather is expected to move in from eastern Kansas this evening. Damaging winds in excess of 70 miles per hour, tennis ball size hail and tornadoes are possible in this storm.
It is expected to move through the lake area sometime between 6-11 p.m.
Location, ST | website.com


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The hacker group known as Anonymous has been tipped to be initiating a project called "GlobalBlackOut" which would hypothetically knock out the vast majority of the HTTP internet. Though the text posted to PasteBin does appear to be an official Anonymous release, setting in motion wheels which would eventually lead to a March 31st attack on the pillars that hold up the greater web, not all is as it seems. Anonymous' own @anonops Twitter account dismissed the attack as a falsehood last month.
This attack could very well be happening in one form or another, but the long and short of the situation is that it's not a true "Anonymous" attack if one of their main hubs - such as Anonops - says it's a no-go. Instead what we've been tipped on is that this is much more likely a sting attack created by forces that wish to take out "newb" hackers attempting to get in on the fun with no knowledge of the inner workings of Anonymous' higher ups.
That said, this note, which can be found here: http://pastebin.com/GFkQnf6e has in it a set of DNS servers that does appear to be rather important for holding up the web. If a massive conglomeration of mean-minded individuals does indeed knock these servers out, we'll likely not be able to access a big chunk of the web.
Remember to check your sources, everyone, and definitely keep a weather eye on this particular "attack" as it'll be either a big dud, a big trap, or a big knockout!
[via Twitter]


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Definition of Ndola in English:
Words that rhyme with NdolaAngola, barbola, bipolar, bowler, bronchiolar, canola, carambola, circumpolar, coaler, Coca-Cola, cola, comptroller, consoler, controller, Ebola, eidola, extoller, Finola, Gorgonzola, granola, Hispaniola, kola, Lola, lunisolar, mandola, molar, multipolar, patroller, payola, pianola, polar, roller, Savonarola, scagliola, scroller, sola, solar, stroller, tombola, Tortola, troller, Vignola, viola, Zola
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Posted: Sat Sep 05, 2009 4:20 pm
Post subject: twins
hi i have 12 sets of tiwn in my family and it go's like this grate grate grandad had twins my gran and grandad had twins. thats my dad than he had twins. he had me and my twin sister claire. and my dad's twin has had twins too than on my mums side there are lots of twins too. xxxxxxxxxxxxx so may be i will have twins to
Posted: Sun Sep 06, 2009 11:10 am
Post subject:


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Movie conversion tools
No version information || License: Freeware
App Owner: ivanciko
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* Convert To MP3 v2.0.5
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* Split Movie Tracks v1.0
This collection of four drag-and-drop converters provide a quick and easy way to extract movie tracks and convert QuickTime movies to MP3, AAC or AIFF format for podcasts and sharing. Just drag a movie file to one the program icons and it will take care of the rest.
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Tags: mp3 , movie , extract , audio , aiff , aac


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1. Touch Typing Course: The touch typing courses help you understand touch typing and develop your keyboard skills with exercises that make use of numeric keys, character keys, upper-case and lower-case, as well as exercises in finger placement.2. Word Drill & Text Drill: In word and text drills, you copy words and text that are shown on the screen. The drills are scientifically designed to help improve typing accuracy and to help keep you typing fluidly. 3. Typing Speed Test: Typing speed tests are designed to measure your typing speed and keyboarding accuracy and the statistics of your typing speed and accuracy rate are displayed as graphs.4. Personal Record: Personal record tracking system provides valuable feedback and assessment which facilitate improving the efficiency of your typing practices.5. Typing Games: Typing games are fun activities designed to practice the typing skills that you have already studied while relaxing.
You can be a Typing Master in 24 hours!


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The Cherry Orchard
by Anton Chekhov
Character Analysis
Everyone in the play is a little obsessed with Lubov's seventeen-year-old daughter Anya. Dunyasha calls her "darling" and "pet" (1.32), and Varya calls her "darling" and "pretty one" (1.43). Gaev gets a little crazy telling her good night: "My darling! [Kisses ANYA'S face and hands] My child. ... [Crying] You're not my niece, you're my angel, you're my all" (1.204). And when Trofimov sees her at the end of Act 1, he whispers, "My sun! My spring!" (1.223). Anya, Anya, Anya. What's so special about her?
As befitting the Eternal Student, Trofimov has hit it on the head. She's Spring. She's what the older generation wishes they still were: a child. All of her life choices are ahead of her, not in a past to be regretted.
A surprisingly minor and inactive character, Anya does undergo one important change in the play. In Act 1, she shares her mother's viewpoint entirely. She loves home and agonizes with Varya over the fate of the orchard:
ANYA. Oh God, oh God ...
VARYA. The place will be sold in August.
ANYA. O God. ... (1.54-56)
At the end of Act 2, her romance with Trofimov has changed her:
What have you done to me, Peter? I don't love the cherry orchard as I used to. I loved it so tenderly, I thought there was no better place in the world than our orchard. (2.148)
She promises to leave the estate. When the orchard is sold, Anya, sensitive and caring like her mother, comforts Lubov: "don't cry mother, you've still got your life before you, you've still your beautiful pure soul" (3.134). But her relief is apparent as they leave. Even Lubov notices it through her grief:
LUBOV. [Passionately kisses her daughter] My treasure, you're radiant, your eyes flash like two jewels! Are you happy? Very?
ANYA. Very! A new life is beginning, mother! (4.53-54)
Young and full of curiosity, Anya wants to read and study. She's still able to change her mind and her ways. She embodies hope.


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There's plenty of books out about fighting zombies and preparing yourself for the zombie apocalypse, but what about from the zombie's point-of-view? That is the basis of "The Brain Eater's Bible" by J.D. McGhoul with Pat Kilbane.
Writen with journal entries from one zombie's experiences as becoming one of the undead and with chapters like, Eat Brains, Know Your Body, Hunt, Know Your Enemy, Move Your Head and Infect Others, this tongue-in-cheek "survivial" guide will have all zombie fans howling with delight. The graphic and photo illustrations are also ghoulishly great.
"The Brain Eater's Bible" is published by St. Martin's Griffin. It is $16.99.
* * *
A small group of people must try to make it through a zombie wasteland in hopes of delivering a possible cure in Bram Stoker award winning author Joe McKinney's "Mutated."
It's been 8 years since the zombie plague desimated the United States. Small groups of people live together, hoping to survive. One such man is Ben Richardson, a former reporter, who is still collecting "stories" in his travels. He comes upon a woman from his past, Sylvia, who is trying along with a girl named Avery and a young woman named Niki, to reach a doctor who could possibly have a cure. Little do they know, a young man named Nate is walking around with a possible cure around his neck - he is the only one immnune to the virus - and another doctor had made progress using his blood before he died. But standing in their way is an insane man named the Red Man, who is himself a zombie - and has retained his knowledge. He alone can control zombies and is set to make himself a zombie king - unless someone can stop him.
A grim and gritty story of survival, human nature and of course, zombies, this is a perfect Halloween read to give you the chills.
"Mutated" is published by Pinnacle. It is $7.99 and 406 pages long.
* * *
There's also plenty of good "spooky" books for kids too!
Older siblings always believe their younger siblings are monsters - but Jake's actually is in "Always October" by Bruce Coville.
Jake finds a baby on his doorstep and his mom decides to keep it. But his new sibling isn't exactly normal, since he becomes a monster in the moonlight! And he's attracted all kinds of bad attention from the other monsters! LD may be a pain, but he is just a baby and Jake and his friend "Weird Lily" are determined to protect his brother from the things that go bump in the night. To do that, they must travel to the world of Always October to save his brother and unlock some secrets about Jake as well!
This is a cool adventure book for tween readers of kids who aren't afraid of the monsters.
"Always October" is published by HarperCollins. It is $15.99 and for ages 8 to 12.
* * *
For a bit younger kids is "Invisible Inkling: Dangerous Pumpkins" by Emily Jenkins with illustrations by Harry Bliss.
Hank hates Halloween, especially because his big sister likes to scare him. But his best (and invisible friend) Invisible Inkling loves Halloween, especially the pumpkins. In fact, Inkling's love of pumpkins is causing Hank all sorts of trouble. But while Hank is trying to curb his friend's appetite, he's also trying ot figure out his costume and find a way to have a good Halloween. Good thing Inkling's there to help.
A cute story about friendship (invisible or not), this is a good seasonal treat.
"Invisible Inkling: Dangerous Pumpkins" is published by Balzer + Bray. It is $14.99 and is for ages 7 to 10.
* * *
For young fans of zombies comes a creepy story about kids lost in the woods who come upon zombies in "Gravediggers: Mountain of Bones" by Christopher Krovatin.
While three kids are backpacking in Montana, one of their group, Ian, takes off into the forest, following a deer. Kendra followed him, along with PJ and his video camera. Before the young teen know it, they are lost in the woods, trying to survive. And that's when they come upon a weird cabin, a diary, and oh yeah, zombies. A lot of zombies. And before they know it, the kids are stuck in a horror movie of their own that they may not escape from.
This is a bit like "Evil Dead" mixed with "Night of the Living Dead" with plenty of creepy scares, but not TOO creepy for the age group. Kids can stay up late under the covers reading this one!
"Gravediggers" is published by Katherine Tegen Books. It is $16.99 and is for ages 8 to 12.