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UCP Mission Moments from Around the Globe
Joining in the Fun for an Accessible Makerspace Concept
(June 2014 feature)
This month's affiliate mission moment highlights a recent collaboration between UCP's Life Labs, Marymount University's Interior Design Department and UCP Seguin of Greater Chicago. The partnership stemmed from Marymount's participation at Life Labs' first annual design-athon this past November. Ultimately, the partnership cultivated a new design concept of an accessible makerspace that could be used throughout UCP affiliate locations to help introduce individuals with and without disabilities to the maker and do-it-yourself approach towards innovation.
"To be honest, I did not know much about makerspaces when this project began," said Casey Burke, UCP Seguin's Director of Employment and Day Services. "But after learning more about them, including their impact on not only the individuals we serve but our entire community, their value became clear."
A makerspace allows people to come together and create product prototypes within a community environment. With UCP Seguin's feedback, Marymount's design team was able to develop a design concept that is accessible, inviting, mobile and valuable to the entire community.
"An accessible makerspace is useful for everyone," explained Burke. "Many of the individuals we serve come up with ideas all the time– and, for example, would enjoy customizing their wheelchairs and other adaptive equipment themselves at their convenience, rather than relying on technicians to come by." Still, it was clear that the inclusion aspect was the ultimate driving force throughout the project. "We are always looking for ways to get more people in the community involved with our work and this would definitely provide a unique way of doing so," Burke stated. "Sometimes, it can be hard to find opportunities like this that are so eye-catching and allow individuals with and without disabilities in our community to mingle on a casual basis."
It has been nice to see what can happen when innovation, interior design and service-provider experts come together. Now that they have created something so meaningful and useful, it will be exciting to watch the conversation around accessible makerspaces continue to grow.
To read more about this project, check out the guest post on the Life Labs blog by Julie Daniel, a Master's Interior Design student at Marymount. If you would like to learn more about UCP Seguin and how this project has played into their work, please visit their website or contact Casey Burke at email@example.com.
Rocking Adaptive Design!
(May 2014 feature)
This month, we are thrilled to highlight a story from UCP of Tallahassee. Serving individuals with a range of disabilities and their families in Northern Florida, UCP of Tallahassee provides services that include assistive technology, adult day training and behavioral services, among many others. Last year, one of their occupational therapists, Louis Tornyai, developed a side-to-side rocking chair after seeing a resident rock in this motion throughout the day in his wheelchair. Tornyai recently took this a step further, as he worked with interns at Keiser University to find a way to help this type of modification benefit others. "I got the idea that a couple of residents with strong torso rocking patterns, might be able to rock back and forth with only subtle shifts of their upper body– particularly more likely if they already had a self-stimulation pattern occurring with upper body weight shifts," said Tornyai.
After finding an outdoor patio rocker that required minimal torso motion and zero use of one's feet to make it swing back and forth, he worked with the interns to modify the glider. Utilizing a new workspace created by UCP of Tallahassee's Executive Director, Jameson Dörmann, the group was able to enhance the rocker's safety, comfort and support. The adaptive rockers have been a success, as it appears they are providing a means of self-initiative calming and are adding to the quality of people's lives. Check out the whole story by visiting Sunrise Community, Inc.'s blog HERE! If you would like to learn more about UCP of Tallahassee, please call (850) 922-5630 or email email@example.com.
Man with Cerebral Palsy Takes His First Vacation– Ever!
(April 2014 feature)
Bennie Green lives at Sunrise Community in Miami, and we are thrilled to bring you the story of how he is living his life without limits, highlighted in a recent post on AMS Vans.
Green, who has cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair, has lived at Sunrise Community in Miami, Florida for nearly 40 years. Recently, and after a year of careful planning, Green went on his very first vacation– to Las Vegas! He stayed at the Palazzo hotel and shared the details of how his trip went:
Green says it took "about one week to plan the trip and ensure that all the details for the trip were covered. It took some research online and time on the phone with the airline and hotel to get all the details ironed out. I let the Palazzo know about all my physical needs when booking the room. They assured me that they would be able to accommodate me." Additionally, Green found the airline to be "very helpful," and when he arrived in Las Vegas, "they helped me off the plane and had my electric chair waiting for me."
The hotel Green stayed at, the Palazzo, was equally accommodating. Describing the experience, he says "the room was way better than what I expected. I was on the 28th floor; my room overlooked some hotels on the strip and the beautiful mountains surrounding Vegas. I was honestly surprised because I thought the accessible rooms would be overlooking the parking lot. The room had shower bars, a roll-in shower, bars mounted on the toilet seat, a phone next to the toilet. It was completely accessible and the service in the hotel was first class. I felt like a rock star the way they treated me."
Beyond his own travel arrangements, Green found the city of Las Vegas to be very convenient with one-way sideways, which enabled him to use his wheelchair without bumping into other people, and accessible seating at the two shows he saw. "I would rate the accessibility of Vegas to be a ten out of ten," he says. "I did not experience any accessibility issues."
For anyone with a disability interested in traveling to Las Vegas, Green suggests that they "call the hotel ahead of time and spell out your physical needs as they relate to accessibility. In other words, if you need an accessible shower tell them, elevated bed, toilet bars, etc. They are really happy to accommodate. Be sure to ask for help if you need it. My best tip is, if you need to travel with a personal support staff, be sure you pick someone who is outgoing and willing to try new things."
Read Green's full story here!
Surviving the Storm in Atlanta
(March feature)
In early January, a severe winter storm struck the Atlanta area, causing massive traffic jams and numerous car accidents that left many motorists stranded on the city's highways. Caught in the storm were five clients of United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia, whose transportation had been delayed as the weather conditions continued to deteriorate. Vontana Atkins, a wellness coordinator, and Diane Wilush, the affiliate's executive director, decided to drive the clients home themselves and unfortunately found themselves stranded as well.
Throughout the night, Atkins and Wilush bargained with fellow drivers trapped on the highway and local restaurants to get their clients food and drinks, sang songs (including the Gilligan's Island theme song, which Wilush noted was "kind of appropriate, now that I think about it."), to keep the client's distracted and continued to try to get their clients home. They also kept in touch with the clients' families to let them know their loved ones were safe. Marilyn Harvill, mother of UCP client Matt Windham, praised Atkins saying, "Von tried to keep them calm, she was very aware of keeping them warm and conserving the gas as best she could. She called 911 but nobody was able to get there, nobody ever made it."
At one point, a hotel room was secured near Atkins's van, but they were unable to drive even a short distance due to the snow and traffic. A plea for help went up on the SnowedOutAtlanta Facebook page by the next morning, and several individuals tried to bring supplies to the stranded van– but were unable to find it amongst the thousands of vans on the highway. By midday, the roads had cleared enough for the van to make it back to the clients' group home, and Wilush and the two other clients with her had been picked up by another UCP employee with a four-wheel drive truck.
For more than 20 hours, Atkins and Wilush were able to keep their clients safe and ensure that they made it home despite one of the worst storms to hit Atlanta in recent history. While there has been a lot of speculation about the city's response to the snow and how it could be improved, UCP of Georgia is already working to review their emergency planning procedures. But one thing certain: in extraordinary circumstances, UCP's staff rose to the occasion, and we are all thankful for the dedication, resourcefulness and creativity that got everyone home safely!
Content for this story was sourced from the Wall Street Journal. The article in its entirety can be read here.
Six Word Stories from UCP of MetroBoston
(February feature)
For the past year, UCP of MetroBoston has worked to share the stories of individuals supported by the agency through a series of expressive photos and short, six-word phrases. The idea for conveying an entire story in just six words comes from a story attributed to Ernest Hemingway, and often cited as his best work, entitled Papa, and reads "For sale: baby shoes, never worn." It is a great example of expressing a depth of emotion in an incredibly concise way, and coupled with photos, can be a very powerful way to tell a story.
UCP of MetroBoston has taken this concept of short but engaging storytelling and used it to provide some insight into the lives of the individuals supported by the organization and how UCP has been a part of their journeys. The result has been a collection of stories that convey an extraordinary amount of emotion, information and meaning. Sheri Wasserman of UCP of Metro Boston says, "We really wanted to do something that would grab the viewer's attention and make them want to know more. So much can be said by a few simple words, and the result is so much more than we had originally imagined. The stories truly exemplify living a life without limits for people with disabilities."
Here are a few of these amazing stories:
Joe is a young man who had spent many years in a nursing home following a severe accident. UCP of MetroBoston was able to offer him a place in a newly built home which had been designed to specifically meet the medical and physical needs of young adults like Joe. Joe now spends his time as a typical young man: listening to rap music, attending Boston Red Sox and Celtics games and hanging out with attractive women.
Jack and Doris never thought they would find someone who understood them or who would want to spend the rest of their life with them— that is until they met each other while receiving supports from UCP. Both say that they have found their soul mate, and will be celebrating their third wedding anniversary soon.
Barbara is an older woman who was resigned to the fact that she had to live in a nursing facility, not because of profound medical needs, but due to the fact that she was no longer able to live alone. With UCP's assistance, Barbara was able to move out of the nursing home and now lives in a beautiful studio in an assisted living program where she has made numerous friends, takes part in daily activities, and has been able to regain the independence and pride of having her own apartment.
As you can see, six simple words can convey an enormous amount of emotion and history. Learn more about UCP of MetroBoston and their work at www.ucpboston.org.
Wheels for Humanity Expands in El Salvador
(January feature)
UCP Wheels for Humanity (UCP Wheels), a subsidiary of UCP of Los Angeles, Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties (UCPLA), recently announced the opening of a new office in San Salvador, El Salvador as part of their ongoing partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
With an estimated 465,000 people living in El Salvador in need of a wheelchair but without access to one, there is an enormous need to be met in this country. UCP Wheels will be implementing a multifaceted effort to increase access to assistive technology and physical therapy for people with disabilities in El Salvador, continuing a model of mobility access first tested in Indonesia that has been globally recognized. Learn more about UCP Wheels for Humanity.
UCP Wheels Helps Those Affected by Typhoon Haiyan
(December feature)
Since 2003, UCP Wheels for Humanity (UCP Wheels), a subsidiary of UCP of Los Angeles, Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties (UCPLA), has worked to provide wheelchairs and other ambulatory aid to people in need in the Philippines. In the wake of the devastating Typhoon Haiyan, which injured thousands of people, UCP Wheels is preparing to send a shipment of wheelchairs to those in need– but they need help.
To learn more about how to help those who have recently become disabled in the Philippines, as well as those who, because of a disability, have been at greater risk because of this destructive storm, visit UCP Wheels's website.
Four Friends Team Up to Make a Difference
(November feature)
Ben, Theo, Martin and Adrian are not your typical 13-year-old boys: the four best friends, students at Lake Mary Prep in Florida, helped create this week's Lake Scary 5K Run/Walk for Cerebral Palsy. The four boys' interest in such an event stems from their own experiences, as Ben has cerebral palsy– and while Theo, Martin and Adrian are quick to say CP doesn't limit their friend or their friendship, they know the challenges that many living with disabilities face. Martin spearheaded the effort, searching for a way to raise awareness about CP or a fundraiser that the four friends could participate in. Finding no options in their home county, the boys went to their parents, reached out to their school, contacted UCP of Central Florida and the Cerebral Palsy International Research Foundation and got to work. Lake Mary Prep agreed to host the event, and the Lake Scary 5K Run/Walk for Cerebral Palsy was born! Read more about this great event.
Hope, Love and UCP of Central Arizona
(October Feature)
Throughout the UCP network, there are many individuals and families who are striving to live a life without limits—but there is one family in particular that stands out. The story of Lori, Marcia, Apollo and Madison Alvarez and their connection with UCP of Central Arizona is one of hope, incredible progress and beating the odds.
Lori Alvarez's pregnancy was difficult—at 12 weeks, she was told that one of the quadruplets she was carrying had not survived. At 28 weeks, doctors told her that Apollo, one of the remaining three babies, would be born with a condition called lissencephaly, also known as smooth brain syndrome. Then the doctors said a second baby, Madison, would be born with the same condition, and neither was expected to survive until birth— and if they did, their quality of life would very limited and their life expectancy would be about two years. The Alvarez family was encouraged to terminate the pregnancies, but refused, saying that they would "take them home, love them and teach them to the best of their ability."
On February 2, 2009, Lori gave birth to three children, including Apollo and Madison, who were diagnosed with lissencephaly, microcephaly, mild cerebral palsy and failure to thrive. Lori and Marcia brought their children home and, starting at two months, began therapy exercises to ensure the best possible outcomes for Apollo and Madison. Apollo surprised everyone by sitting and crawling at one year, walking by the time he was 18 months old and eating solid foods by age three. Madison struggled with irritability and did not start crawling until she was about three years old.
The family was put in touch with Dolores, an occupational therapist at UCP of Central Arizona. Dolores and other therapists worked with both Apollo and Madison, giving Lori and Marcia exercises to do at home and teaching them some sign language—and with amazing results. Madison just recently started coloring with crayons, is overcoming her sensory issues and has learned to walk. Apollo, who suffered some seizures about 18 months ago, has regained many of the skills he lost and is making incredible progress. Recently, both children transitioned from early intervention to preschool but kept working with Dolores, who has helped with navigating the school system and providing ideas and suggestions to help them be successful.
Apollo and Madison, two children who were not expected to survive, are thriving now with the support they need to grow, functioning at higher brain levels and living very happy lives. Dolores says that the incredible results both Apollo and Madison have achieved are because of the love and commitment of Lori and their family. The geneticist and pediatrician are amazed at Apollo and Madison's progress. Lori was very happy to share that a couple weeks ago, the geneticist said that she now expects them to have a normal life span! Their story goes to show that with love, hope, and quality services, children with disabilities can live a life without limits!
Community Rallies Around UCP Land of Lincoln
(September Feature)
In early August, disaster struck UCP Land of Lincoln when one of their group homes was devastated in a fire. Thankfully, the home's three residents were not home at the time, but the house and all of the residents' possessions were destroyed.
In the wake of the fire, the Springfield community sprung into action. While the three men stayed at local hotels and other group homes, people and organizations offered their help, providing new furniture, a washer and dryer, clothes and household items to help the men recover. In addition, United Way of Central Illinois, church groups, employees at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois, and members of the affiliate's board helped raise $10,000. Brenda Yarnell, President and CEO of UCP of Land of Lincoln, praised the incredible community response, saying "We have a very small and tight budget. It was imperative what the community did."
This week, thanks to generous donations and assistance, the three residents were able to move into a new group home. According to the State-Journal Register, group home resident Anthony Carrell said, "The fire was devastating. We lost everything, but we're slowly getting back on our feet." The new home, in which each man will have his own room, is in a "nice neighborhood that welcomes families," said Yarnell, and even includes a backyard.
TeenCP Founder Wins Outstanding Youth Award
(August Feature)
Every year at our Awards for Excellence ceremony, UCP recognizes several groups and individuals who exemplify our mission of ensuring life without limits for those with disabilities. Among the 2013 honorees was 21-year-old Katy Fetters, recipient of the Outstanding Youth Award. A college student with cerebral palsy, Fetters is the founder of TeenCP, a blog that acts as a resource for adolescents with disabilities. Offline, she embraces her role as an advocate by volunteering at UCP of Orange County. Having previously served as a guest blogger and a speaker at fundraising events, she is now working as an intern to promote the World CP Challenge.
Such dedication has not gone unnoticed by UCP staff. "Katy has an incredible story and a great mission in her life to create awareness for cerebral palsy and to be a resource for others with CP. She is a great inspiration and role model for teens to embrace who they are and challenge perceived restrictions and barriers in their life so they can live a Life Without Limits," said Elizabeth Eckman, the marketing and development coordinator at UCP of Orange County who nominated Katy for the award.
Katy's describes the honor as "humbling," and adds that "being recognized at that magnitude was eye-opening." In the future, she hopes to include other teens' perspectives on her website, so that she might further her mission of "encouraging others to leave their comfort zone and stay true to themselves."
Read Katy's account of the ceremony at TeenCP, and check out the UCP of Orange County website to learn more about their programs.
Adventure Fitness Trail of UCP of Central PA
(July Feature)
At Adventure Park in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, kids with a wide range of abilities can have fun together on its adapted and inclusive playground. Now, thanks to the efforts of UCP of Central Pennsylvania, community members will have the chance to get active amongst the beauty of nature. Opening July 6th, the Adventure Fitness Trail will consist of a mile-long path that is fully accessible to older citizens and people with disabilities.
Hikers thirteen years of age or older will also have access to numerous exercise stations, which are located throughout the trail and challenge users to work their muscles. Energi Stations demand more rigorous, full-body movement, while LifeTrail Stations are modified for use by seniors and people with less mobility. Individuals looking to improve their flexibility can roll up to the wheelchair-accessible stretching platform, then switch to strength training by visiting the stations devoted to shoulder or tricep exercises. From upper-body cycling to push-ups, trail walkers of any ability level will be able to choose from a plethora of invigorating activities.
The grand opening will take place during the UCP-sponsored Jazz in the Park event, which will feature live entertainment, free food, and child-friendly games. In the future, officials plan to expand the park by constructing a volleyball court to accompany its existing sports fields.
Learn more about the Adventure Fitness Trail and its surrounding park, and be sure to check out the UCP of Central Pennsylvania website.
New Voices
(June Feature)
The Nina Eaton Program of the Year award recognizes a program of a UCP affiliate that has made an extraordinary contribution to the quality of life of people with disabilities, enabling them to become more independent, productive, or integrated into the family or community through a particular program. This year, the award was presented to Ability Connection Oklahoma for their program, New Voices.
New Voices is an assistive technology program that pairs non-verbal children (and some adults) with an Apple iPad with comprehensive language software that fosters communication efforts. One of the unique aspects of the program is that the iPad is theirs to keep, which facilitates more growth and progress in their ability to communicate.
Through the New Voices program, Ability Connection Oklahoma is making it possible for children and adults to gain more independence and confidence. Since 2011, the program has paired more than 170 people with iPads. Some children are learning to speak for the first time or communicate with teachers, family and friends. Enabling communication through technology allows individuals to participate in school and other activities with greater ease, and promotes inclusion. Thanks to the digital technology, voices that were once silent are now heard, with one recipient of an iPad writing "you have made the possibilities limitless for me."
Learn more about Ability Connection Oklahoma.
The Power of Martial Arts
(May Feature)
More than 14 years ago, black belt instructor Sensei Martin Williams decided to teach a class for students with disabilities. People were eager to take the class, and today the program at UCP of Hawaii's Kuwili Martial Arts Center has grown to 97 students.
Students learn Hapkido; a form of martial arts focusing on the core tenants of courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit. Not only are these important components of practicing martial arts, but they also translate into effective skills for the workplace. One parent remarked that having his son take Hapkido classes "has been a great experience of growing in confidence, competence, understanding, and strength."
The students take leadership positions within the center; setting their own goals and working toward belt promotions. People look forward to coming to class each week. The Kuwili Martial Arts Center provides a positive impact in students' lives where they not only look forward to class each week but also gain initiative and independence.
Learn more about the Kuwili Matial Arts Center, watch a video of the students in action, and visit UCP of Hawaii's website.
Fashion Show Celebrates the Beauty in Us All
(April Feature)
This past February, to celebrate Valentine's Day, UCP of Georgia in collaboration with K&G Fashion Superstore hosted their second annual "Share the Love" Fashion Show & Luncheon – an event to celebrate the beauty in us all.Men and women with disabilities modeled outfits from K&G for more than 200 guests and raised more than $22,000 to support UCP services for individuals with disabilities throughout Georgia. Check out photos from the runway!Read more about the Fashion Show and learn more about UCP of Georgia on their website.
Cure Pity – Take the Pledge Today!
(March Feature)
Last August, Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare(Gillette) joined UCP as its newest affiliate and the first children's hospital to join the UCP network.
Located in St. Paul, Minnesota, Gillette is internationally recognized for its work in treating children who have disabilities and complex medical conditions with high quality medical care in a compassionate environment as well as working to change the way people view children with disabilities.
As an extension of their commitment to change perceptions people have of those with a disability, Gillette introduced theCurePity campaign.
The campaign spreads the message that children with disabilities don't need pity; instead, a positive attitude and understanding can make a world of difference. More than 5,000 people have signed the online pledge to CurePity. Learn more about thisinitiative; meet Lexi and Logan, two of the children the hospital serves; and pledge your support at curepity.org.
Affiliate Mission Moment: California Access Grant Bolsters Efforts at
UCP of Sacramento
(February Feature)
This December, UCP of Sacramento and Northern California was awarded a $25,000 grant from The California Communications Access Foundation to purchase assistive technology for its adult day programs and Autism Center for Excellence at Sacramento State. The grant was used to purchase 11 iPads, one SMART Table, and one SMART Board.
The technology is being shared between both groups, with the Autism Center using an iPad to reinforce good behavior, and the SMART Table to build social skills. UCP's adult day programs are able to use the iPads to increase their reading and math skills and improve communication. The SMART Board allows the affiliate to teach interactive lessons that are educational as well as to improve participants' range of motion and hand-eye coordination.
"We're very thankful for California Communications Access Foundation's generous gift that is helping people with developmental disabilities access the educational resources needed to live independent and meaningful lives," said Doug Bergman, president and CEO, UCP of Sacramento and Northern California to the Sacramento Press about the grant.
The goal with these new devices was to help create community, improve communication, living and motor skills, language development, and group skills. These items have succeeded in these areas and more, proving the power of assistive technology for people with disabilities.
For more information, check out this article about the grant and learn more about UCP of Sacramento and Northern California on their website.
Eagle Scout Gives Back to Local UCP
(January Feature)
Last month, during the season of giving, 17-year-old Brendan Perlinger decided to use his efforts to give back to an organization that has helped him in the past, United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Kansas City. Brendan has cerebral palsy and has worked in the past with UCP of Greater Kansas City. Through his own experience with UCP, he knew of their excellent work, so when it was time to come up with project to complete his Eagle Scout project requirement he knew the organization with which he most wanted to work.
"My goal was to bring attention to a lesser-known need in my community as well as to fulfill my Eagle project requirement," Perlinger told his local Fox News affiliate, which did a story on his project. He made personal appeals to members of his church to collect household goods and personal items, as well as raising $1,300 to buy additional items for adults with cerebral palsy. "Because United Cerebral Palsy has helped me in the past, I wanted to find a way that I could give back to them," he said. "I am very happy with the support that my parish has given me with my Eagle project. I think because of my disability, people were more willing to donate", he added.
Perlinger's parents called UCP of Greater Kansas City's Development Coordinator, Debbie Niemann, to share his story and to Niemann's delight, what he had collected. Niemann had the perfect place to use all of Perlinger's wonderful donations as several residents had recently moved from a group home into Integral Senior Living settings in apartments and were in need of many items. "Brendan not only gathered what they still needed, but took it to the next level, so each resident had items that created a feeling of coziness and home, rather than just a place to live. How wonderful to see a teenager identify a need, organize a project, and help so many people successfully," reflected Niemann on the donations. She continued, "What really grabbed me, though, was that we live in a world of excuses why we haven't or can't help. Brendan, who is faced with enormous and justifiable challenges, makes no excuses. He saw an opportunity to help, used the tools he has to get the message out and coordinate a collection, and significantly helped many people."
Perlinger is truly the personification of life without limits as his disability does not hold him back but rather enables him to help others in a unique and admirable way.
To learn more about Brendan Perlinger, read the story about his amazing work.
To learn more about UCP of Greater Kansas City, visit their website.
The Gift of Sight
(December Feature)
This fall the Therapy Team at United Cerebral Palsy of Orange County (UCP-OC), with the help of Abbott Medical Optics, had the opportunity to participate in a new therapeutic training for Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI). This unique educational experience was part of a larger project to launch UCP-OC's initiative with the Gavin Herbert Eye Institute at UC Irvine to gain a greater understanding of how to serve and care for children affected by CVI associate with cerebral palsy.
According to Dr. Christine Roman-Lantzy, who led the training, CVI is defined as a "visual impairment that occurs because of brain damage…[visual impairment] exists not in the structures of the eye or optic never, but in the visual processing centers and visual pathways of the brain".
Additionally, some UCP-OC advocates had the opportunity to join Dr. Roman- Lantzy at a luncheon hosted by Dr. Jennifer Simpson (pediatric ophthalmologist at the Gavin Herbert Eye Institute), to gain a broader understanding of CVI and how to support this groundbreaking West Coast initiative.
The UCP-OC Visual Impairment Early Intervention Program is anticipated to open in Spring 2013. Their goal for this innovative program is to help improve the diagnosis and rehabilitation of infants who are at risk for vision complications in relation to cerebral palsy.
To learn more about the training they participated in, check out their fall newsletter and learn more about UCP-OC by visiting their website.
Can You Hear Us?
(November Feature)
The National Forum on Disability Issues took place on September 28, focusing on the disability positions of the 2012 Presidential Candidates and bringing attention to the issues that are facing the disabilities community in the upcoming election.
In honor of this historic event, UCP of Greater Cincinnati decided to get involved with the creation of their own video, "Can You Hear Us?". The video features members of the UCP affiliate calling for the politicians to hear their voices, and make sure they are not forgotten in this upcoming election. The video was written and recorded by students in the Academy of Technology Advancement at UCP of Greater Cincinnati.
"The message is simple but we hope the end result is powerful," said Executive Director Susan Schiller. "The disability community wants to be heard this election, and they want their rights and futures protected. The students took extreme pride in making this video and are grateful to everyone who takes the time to watch it".
The video helps to put a face to these discussions and issues, reminding the public of the people affected by political decisions.
To learn more about UCP of Greater Cincinnati, visit their website.
Gone Fishing (October Feature)
For many people with disabilities who require wheelchair assistance, there is a limited opportunity to participate in an outdoor activity such as fishing. This summer that changed for the members of UCP of Oregon and SW Washington, with the creation of the Drano Lake ADA Fishing Platform. The platform, which opened in July, was "constructed to benefit anglers of all ages with limited mobility" according to Little White Salmon National Fish Hatchery, who created the platform.In late August, UCP of Oregon and SW Washington, as well as other members of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, were invited to come experience the platform themselves, and they jumped at the opportunity. Twenty participants along with support staff spent the morning fishing in Drano Lake, and after a successful first half of the day; they went on a tour of the Little White Salmon grounds to see the fish hatchery itself.The reactions from participants were overwhelmingly positive. It has been over since the trip the participants are still talk about how great it was and are looking forward to their next visit. UCP of Oregon and SW Washington already has plans in motion for another trip next year and hoping to increase the number of participants.The trip was made possible in part thanks to Brian Lawler at the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service who helped arrange the outing. Providing rangers who afforded 1 to 1 support for everyone on the trip and the coordination to have two of the top fisherman in the state of Oregon to help participants catch fish.Read more about the trip on the Fish & Wildlife blog and learn more about UCP of Oregon and SW Washington.
Spread the Word to End the Word
(September Feature)
This summer Camp Easter Seals UCP, in association with Easter Seals UCP North Carolina & Virginia, decided to join the campaign for "Spread the Word to End the Word,"the nationwide campaign to end the use of the words "retard" or "retarded".
To show their support for this cause the campers and staff created an inspirational videoencouraging people to focus on people's abilities rather than labels. The idea to make a video came from Assistant Camp Director Whitney Civitts, who also had the creative idea to use the cards to share their message. Along with Civitts, campers, staff, and volunteer videographer Chris Hale came together to collaborate on this project.
The video focuses on all the abilities of the campers and what they can do, showing that they live life without limits. Camp Director Alexander Barge said, "We hope that we are able to tactfully and entertainingly inform people of politically incorrect terminology. We hope that people are able to see that it means more to our campers than simply just another word to avoid".
According to Barge, the video has received a lot of positive reactions with the majority of people wanting to share the video with others. Share the video with people you know and help spread the word to end the word!
Learn more about Easter Seals UCP North Carolina & Virginia.
Breaking Barriers with Assistive Technology
(August Feature)
When Tosh Scutt, a 10-year-old autistic boy, started at the Cypress School two years ago he was non-verbal, suffered from aggressive outbursts, and was unable to participate in any pre-school curriculum activities. This all began to change once he began working with an iPad, and thanks to UCP of the North Bay and the UCP Bellows Fund, this April, Tosh received an iPad of his very own.
The UCP Elsie S. Bellows Fund is a nationwide program operated by UCP that provides funds to individuals with disabilities for assistive technology equipment. Recipients of the fund are individuals who have been recommended by UCP affiliates. People may apply for anything from specialized kitchen utensils to wheelchairs, operating under the assistive technology definition: "any piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities".
When Tosh started at the Cyprus School there was one iPad for the entire class of students, all of whom used the technology as part of their curriculum. In the beginning, Tosh used the iPad once a week with his speech therapist to work on speaking, reading and math. His skills began improving, but with limited access to the technology, it was clear that Tosh required an iPad of his very own to see true results. When his gift arrived, Tosh's eyes lit up and he remarked "it's mine?". This one comment illustrates the impact the iPad had made on him in a short time, and his progress has only increased since then.
Since receiving his iPad, Tosh has begun writing short stories based on his social activity of the day using the Storyboard application, and is able to read his stories to his fellow classmates. Just recently Tosh's dad had tears in his eyes when the special education teacher, Jennifer Finney, told him that Tosh had independently written "the girl is pretty" on his iPad.
The progression of Tosh from being non-verbal to writing his own sentences is a true testament to the impact that this assistive technology can have. Tosh's progress not only impacts his education, but his ability to interact in all social activities and communicate with others. It is evident that this is only the beginning for Tosh and that he will continue to move forward towards a bright future.
Learn more about the programs at UCP of the North Bay.
UCP of Central Pennsylvania's Journey of Hope
(July Feature)
In June, UCP of Central Pennsylvania welcomed Hope Johnson as its Community Relations and Development Intern. Hope, who has athetoid cerebral palsy, in conjunction with her daily intern duties, will be blogging about her internship experience throughout the summer in her blog "A Journey of Hope." While typing with only one toe, she will share her experiences and reflective thoughts on her internship. Hope said that through her blog she wants to share the message that "[people] can reach any goal if they are determined and persistent. Success does not happen in a day, a month, or a year, but over time."
Given Hope's unique working style, she primarily does her interning and blogging from home, coming into the office for staff meetings as needed, but this is not to say that her presence is not felt in the office and that she has not had a remarkable impact on the workplace. Hope's supervisor and UCP of Central Pennsylvania's Marketing and Communications Coordinator, Lynda Bowen, described Hope best when she said "to say she's an inspiration would be akin to saying that Mt. McKinley is an uphill climb." When other colleagues at UCP, Lisa Hasselbrook and Karen Beaston, speak of Hope they use words such as "uplifting," "vivacious" and "confident," and from reading her blog and hearing from Hope, it is clear why.
"Since I have first-hand knowledge about coping with a disability, I feel I can give voice for those who are less fortunate. I have been given so many gifts and opportunities that I feel it is essential to share those opportunities with someone who is motivated, but is trapped inside his or her body." Hope recounted of her internship. Hope's drive and passion for this internship and life are evident, and her mind is always on how her life and opportunities can benefit others.
According to Hope, she was drawn to working at UCP given her previous experiences with the organization believing that the organization "embodies 'life without limits' perfectly." Hope has many goals and plans for herself, which she aims to accomplish through her internship and beyond. The experience she most hopes to gain from her time at UCP is the chance to "give a voice to those who do not have one through my writing." Hope's ambitions also extend past her internship, as she hopes in the future to become more aware of the issues that individuals with disabilities face.
When she is not working at UCP of Central Pennsylvania, Hope attends Messiah College and will continue her amazing accomplishments by being their first nonverbal, nonambulatory graduate. Learn more about Hope and follow along on her journey by following her blog!
Learn more about UCP of Central PA.
UCP of the Golden Gate & San Francisco Giants, "Fans for Life"
(June Feature)
UCP of the Golden Gate (UCPGG) was in attendance last month at the Giants vs. Oakland A's game to promote disability awareness with a "Fans for Life" appearance at the game. UCPGG partnered with Sharon Forster, a five-decades-long Giants fan with cerebral palsy, to recognize the Giants for their commitment to ensuring AT&T Park is accessible to all of their fans.
Between innings, a short feature video was played and the first 10,000 Community Clubhouse visitors were given a "Fans for Life" wristband. For those who weren't able to get a wristband at the game, UCPGG is accepting donations, which will get you your very own set of wristbands.
Watch a two minute video featuring interviews with Sharon Forster, a lifelong fan of the Giants, Robert Huffman, her cousin and caregiver, Albert Jaimes, the Giant's community relations manager, and Barry Gardin, president of UCPGG.
Learn more about UCPGG and "Friends for Life".
UCP of New York City's Hydroponic Grow Classroom
(May Feature)
For nearly a year, UCP of NYC and Boswyck Farms have been collaborating to expand UCP of NYC's hydroponics classroom and develop plans for a program. In the hydroponics classroom, program participants learn about growing fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs indoors, in a windowless and soil-free environment. The ribbon-cutting event marks UCP of NYC's readiness to take training and growing to new heights.
The grow room, which is outfitted with fully accessible systems for individuals with a range of disabilities, is currently producing nearly 60 heads of lettuce, with nearly 60 seedlings growing in rotation. The program participants are also growing tomatoes and chili peppers, and looking forward to introducing herbs and other greens to their garden.
Participants in the hydroponics program are learning about innovative solutions for farming as well as the benefit of fresh fruits and vegetables for improved health and nutrition. The classroom teacher and specialists from Boswyck Farms work directly with participants to research equipment and tools, learn about care for the plantings, and plan new growth projects while promoting concepts of sustainability and healthy living through hydroponic gardening.
Read more about the classroom's celebratory ribbon cutting ceremony and learn more about UCP of NYC and their hydroponic classroom.
Hydroponic Grow Classroom Ribbon Cutting with Daniel Perez and Lee Mandel, Founder of Boswyck Farms
Gustavo "Tito" Bonilla at UCP of New York City's Hydroponic Grow Classroom
Infinitec – infinite potential through assistive technology
(April Feature)
UCP of Greater Chicago introduced Infinitec (infinite potential through technology) as its technology program, which aims to advance independence and promote inclusive opportunities for individuals through the use of technology.
With the creation of the Infinitec website, users are provided with resources, an online classroom, webinars, access to experts and more. The initiative focuses on four primary areas of service:
- Training and Education includes face-to-face and distance learning for professional development.
- Information Services consists of extensive web and hard copy resources. An additional innovative resource is InfiniTEXT, an online, accessible instructional materials collection which provides access to over 11,000 digital text files for qualified K-12 students with print disabilities.
- Access to Expertise includes access to highly experienced technical assistance staff.
- Equipment Services includes discount purchase programs and a lending library of equipment for the state of Illinois.
Learn more about UCP of Greater Chicago, the Infinitec program and watch a video from ABC 7 Chicago highlighting the collaboration of local vendors to benefit UCP.
RESPITALITY Program – Reenergizing Families
(March Feature)
UCP of Los Angeles, Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties has been providing families with much needed mini 'vacations' for almost 25 years through its RESPITALITY Program.
The UCP RESPITALITY Program offers parents of children with special needs the opportunity to get away for a relaxing weekend. Parents are given the gift of free weekend accommodations at a local partner hotel and for those who do not have their own sitter, UCP will make every effort to provide a qualified respite worker to take care of the children in their own home at no cost to the family.
RESPITALITY weekends provide couples and single parents a chance to get away and have a much-needed break; serving on average 70-80 families each year.
Learn more about UCP of Los Angeles, Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties and watch a video on what RESPITALITY means to the Rosen family.
Thank You Letter from the Fraidany Family
Thank You Letter from the Jimenez Family
New, Affordable, & Accessible Housing
(February Feature)
UCP of Delaware introduced Garrett House on January 31. Mayor James Baker attended and helped dedicate the new building that will provide new housing for people with disabilities in a historical building, Garrett House in Quaker Hill, Delaware.
During the mid-1990s, the original building had deteriorated badly. The City of Wilmington gained control and boarded it up until UCP acquired the building from the City to create new housing for people with physical disabilities.
The lack of housing for people with disabilities has long been known in Delaware. In 2003, Governor Ruth Ann Minner started the Commission on Community-Based Alternatives for Persons with Disabilities. The Commission identified housing as a goal. IRI Executive Director Larry Henderson asked whether the City of Wilmington had a property that both agencies could develop as new, affordable, and accessible housing. The City recommended Garrett House, and donated the building and property to the project.
UCP became owner of the building, and took on the job of fund-raising to renovate the original building and to construct an additional number of apartments.
The building was in great disrepair with the rear of the building havingfallen down, aroof filled with holes, and years of water damage. The interior was unusable and needed new floor support for structural integrity. The front brick wall of the three stories were in danger of falling into the street. The goal to create seven accessible apartments as housing for residents with disabilities would be a fund-raising challenge with an $1.8 million price tag.
Since Garrett House is located in the Quaker Hill community, the historical nature of the building also had to be preserved, and new construction would be required to compliment the original design, especially the windows and the lines of the building.
The capital funding for Garrett House came from a grant from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Additional funding came from the City of Wilmington, the Delaware State Housing Authority, the Delaware Division of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), New Castle County, JPMorganChase, Bank of America, First State Community Loan Fund, Delmarva Power, the Longwood Foundation and Crystal Trust.
Garrett House was completed in December 2011, and includes three floors and an elevator. All interior doors are wide enough for those who are wheelchair users, and each apartment has its own washing machine and dryer. The building has two accessible means of entrance and exit, and a parking lot with five parking spaces for those with wheelchair accessible vans.
Garrett House will provide independent, residential apartments for adults with physical disabilities who meet federal income guidelines. The apartments will be open to people with any physical disability, not just those who have Cerebral Palsy. All of UCP and IRI's programs are open in this manner.
Because it was funded with a HUD grant, Garrett House comes with a rent subsidy for people with disabilities who are low income.
Read more about Garrett House and watch the video highlights from the dedication atNewsWorks.
Click here to learn more about UCP of Delaware.
Meet Elvin Alvarez: A Young DSP & Manager Making A Big Difference at Miami CP Residential Services
(January Feature)
Elvin Alvarez is not your typical 26-year-old. Ask anyone at Miami Cerebral Palsy (MCP) Residential Services — a program run by UCP of South Florida — and you'll quickly learn that this young Colombian is a star in his profession a rock-solid Direct Support Professional(DSP) who also is now a Residential Services Coordinator. Part of his job includes training others to become DSPs — he's that good!
Consider these Elvin Alvarez milestones:
- Earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a minor in Organizational Psychology from the Universidad Tecnologica de Bolivar in Colombia, South America at the age of 20;
- Among a select few nationwide DSP-Cs who participated in the formal portfolio submission review and critique process for DSP-Registered seeking to gain DSP-Credentialed status; and
- First DSP and MCP employee to earn DSP-Credentialed status from the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP).
Alvarez's thirst for knowledge and accomplishments endure still. In the fall of 2012, he begins working on his Master's in Behavioral Analysis at Florida International University. "Then I'd like to start work on my Ph.D, maybe in Clinical Psychology," Elvin says. "I am motivated, and always have been, to continue learning, to continue my education. Otherwise I would not be happy."
Elvin came to MCP Residential in 2007 when he left his homeland in Colombia to work in the United States. He found MCP and didn't know if he'd like the work. He did. Alvarez began as others do – as a DSP Apprentice – and was assigned to the Braddock facility, which supports 24 people with varying disabilities. Today he is the Assistant Administrator at Braddock, but works daily with clients, trains DSPs, and at heart, remains a DSP in spirit and in is normal work day.
KellenHassell is the Braddock Facility Administrator and Elvin's boss. Hassell says this about his young Assistant Administrator: "One of the things that everyone can agree upon is that Elvin is absolutely just fun to work with and be around. He's confident and secure and takes his role supporting individuals with disabilities and our staff very seriously."
Hassell remembers a situation that he says exemplifies Elvin's maturity and poise under pressure. In February 2009 one of the agency's vehicles was carrying four MCP Braddock residents on an outing. Elvin was in the car behind them. Another car ran a red light and plowed into the MCP vehicle.
"It was a pretty horrific accident that resulted in some serious injuries. Elvin was one of the first people on the scene, intervened, stepped-up, kept his composure amongst the chaos, and played a key role in relaying critical information to our Executive Director and to the EMS/911 Rescue personnel for the four individuals and staff under his supervision," Hassell recounted. "He had valuable and key information for the paramedics about how to deal with our clients and their disabilities. Once those four individuals came back to our facility, Elvin worked very closely with our interdisciplinary team and medical department to support the full recovery of those who sustained the most severe and extensive injuries."
Hassell added this: "He enjoys taking charge in a crisis situation when things don't go according to plan. He doesn't panic, he keeps his composure, he doesn't take things personally, and he really seems to respond very well under pressure and enjoys taking on that ultimate responsibility."
During National DSP Recognition Week, the Florida Association of Direct Support Professionals (FADSP) honored him as a "DSP Making a Difference."
When you ask Alvarez about his primary responsibilities, he gives you a list of the top 12, and among those are: works with families and outside providers….maintains all client information and records….conducts quality assurance monitoring….helps with staff development and training and is a reviewing officer for DSPs….on call 365/24/7 for anything that comes up….participates as On-Duty staff on a rotating basis on weekends and holidays and is Officer on Duty for weekends and holidays.
Alvarez's motivation to learn also included the College of Direct Support (CDS) curriculum. "We have no training like this in my country. I enjoyed the CDS curriculum because it was something additional to all of the training components that I did once I was hired at MCP. I really liked all the courses because they show 'the big picture' of what DSPs need to be doing to provide great supports. Also, it was important because I learned additional things I did not learn in my normal training."
This matches his passion for becoming a DSP-Credentialed through NADSP. "When I first read about the NADSP credentialing program (DSP-R; DSP-C; DSP-S), I said to myself I would become a DSP-C," he explained. "It was not an easy task, but after several workshops I understood the right way to create portfolios, and then I could complete my DSP-C application package. It was fun doing this. It made me think beyond just providing services to individuals with disabilities. Currently, I am helping (coaching) DSPs at MCP to do their DSP-C application packages."
Hassell described one other problem that Alvarez solved. For a while, MCP had struggled with creating, organizing and maintaining a stable group of On-Call DSPs to step into roles in a last-minute or emergency basis. He described the system that was used was "inconsistent and not always efficient or maximized staff talent or effectiveness."
In stepped Alvarez, who had come to understand the need for stability in the lives of those they support. "Looking at this problem with a big-picture mentality in that it was impacting nearly all MCP residents and staff, Elvin was able to attack it and solve the problem employing a great attention to detail and by remaining organized," Hassell said. "He became the ultimate gate-keeper for the On-Call staff at the Braddock Facility. He created a simple, yet perfectly designed system of organizing the On-Call staff schedules at our Braddock Facility by working 1:1 with our Residential Service Coordinator supervisors on a weekly basis in order to plan ahead for the need for On-Call and additional fill-in staff based on what is happening in the individuals' lives at that time and also planning for the unexpected by allowing for free blocks where On-Call staff would be available in the event of a last-minute change or emergency."
The result? Alvarez's system matched On-Call DSPs with clients they knew and who the people being supported knew.
"The bottom line is that Elvin was able to essentially see both sides of the issue. Unlike those who favor one approach over the other, Elvin has shown increasingly that he is not wedded to one particular mode of conceptualizing or solving a problem," Hassell added. "Those of us who know him really well see where he typically falls on an issue, but he has demonstrated an ability to literally use both his left brain and his right brain (without prejudice) in order to work to implement whatever is necessary, whatever the situation demands – not what he arbitrarily prefers. That's another extremely significant way that Elvin's maturity as a person and professional greatly impacts us at MCP."
He began as a DSP. Today, he manages and helps train DSPs and down deep he's still a DSP. "We make a difference in their lives," Elvin said. "That's what being a DSP is all about. It's simple."
Miami Cerebral Palsy Residential Services, Inc., is an affiliate of UCP of South Florida selected as part of the Top 125 Companies to work for by Training Magazine for four consecutive years.
UCP of Orange County Helps Young Boy Live a Life Without Limits
(December Feature)
It was New Years Eve when new parents Frank and Geri Kate got the life-altering news. Their son, Granden, had been diagnosed with Jeune syndrome, a genetic order affecting the growth of long bones.
Frank and Geri Kate struggled watching their son's slow development. Jeune syndrome affects the rib bones, and is a restrictive lung disorder. Granden also had to use a feeding tube for nourishment. He couldn't spend any time on his belly, which slowed his physical development.
Frank and Geri decided to bring Granden to UCP to learn more about his disorder. "It's really empowering to have knowledge, as compared to feeling helpless," said Geri.
UCP of Orange County provides physical therapy to Granden, helping him learn to roll over, stand up and walk. He also receives feeding therapy, learning to eat so he gets enough calories through his mouth to be able to remove his feeding tube. Before therapy, he hadn't used his mouth muscles to eat, so it was difficult for him to form words, and this therapy is an important step for him in learning to speak.
According to his Frank, "Despite his challenges every day, he is one of the happiest children we've ever had the pleasure of encountering."
Sixty percent of Jeune syndrome patients don't live past two years of age. Thanks to the care he receives at UCP, Granden just celebrated his second birthday.
"If we were not able to take Granden to UCP, we would have just been on a waiting list. And while we spent time on that waiting list, he would have just fallen further and further behind other children of his age," said Frank.
With UCP's help, Granden is truly living a life without limits. Click here to learn more about UCP of Orange County.
UCP Helps City Resident Achieve Dream
(November Feature)
UCP of Central Maryland was recently featured for their role in assisting Wayne Chambers to live a life without limits. Below is just a brief excerpt from the story but you can read the entire piece here.
Wayne Chambers was 15 when he suffered from a drug- and alcohol-induced coma that resulted in spastic quadriplegia and legal blindness. Today, Chambers is 27 and more mobile than he ever would have expected 12 years ago, thanks to United Cerebral Palsy of Central Maryland.
With the support of UCP and its staff in Cumberland, Chambers is now able to achieve his newfound dream of sharing his message to youths…
Chambers lives in one of UCP's residential assisted-living units in Cumberland with two other people with disabilities. The Residential Services program provides barrier-free housing, personal care assistance, and life-skills training for adults with disabilities. Each home is modified to ensure accessibility and is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week by UCP professionals.
Click here to learn more about UCP of Central Maryland and how to get involved.
Cerebral Palsy Alliance's "The Cerebral Palsy Challenge"
(October Feature)
The Cerebral Palsy Alliance's is one of UCP's international affiliates based in Australia. The affiliate launched The Cerebral Palsy Challenge as an eight week team activity that began on September 6 and runs through October 31.
The Challenge requires participants to form a team of four where each person then tracks their daily step count (by wearing a pedometer) or other fitness activity on a personalized webpage. Participants are not limited to walking but can also track activities such as running, cycling, swimming and a number of other activities – including activities suitable for individuals with a disability.
Each team selects a division to enter based on the fitness level of Team Members. There are three divisions to choose from, each in the form of a different 'virtual mountain' that the team needs to climb by the end of the Challenge.
Each day, when team members enter their steps, the team will progress up its virtual mountain. The aim of the Challenge is for each team to reach the top by the end of the eight week period.
Click here to learn more about the challenge and The Cerebral Palsy Alliance.
Artwork Credits: Cerebral Palsy Alliance
Congratulations to UCP/CLASS on 60 Years of Service
(September Feature)
On September 12, UCP/CLASS in Pittsburgh, Pa. celebrated 60 years of service to the community. The landmark anniversary was celebrated with a ribbon cutting ceremony and festivities at their newest facility in Swissvale.
UCP/CLASS offers a variety of individualized services ranging from independent living skills training in the classroom to the community-based case management for social, recreational and residential supports.
To learn more and find how you can help support UCP/CLASS visit: http://www.ucpclass.org.
Photo Credits: Stephanie Rex via Patch.com
Camp Kelley Creek
(August Feature)
Three years ago, UCP of San Luis Obispo started a summer camp that has become a popular destination. Camp Kelley Creek is a week long summer camp for adults with developmental disabilities. The program is designed to provide a fun outdoor experience and positive environment for each camper. Each year they have approximately 70-80 campers and in fact, this year, camp was completely sold out! and provided a memorable experience for 85 lucky campers! Daily activities for the 85 lucky campers included (but are not limited to): swimming, arts & crafts, nature excursions, music & movement, and evening campfires.
To learn more and find how you can help support UCP of San Luis Obispo and Camp Kelley Creek visit: http://www.ucp-slo.org.
UCP Wheels for Humanity
(July Feature)
Since 1996, UCP Wheels for Humanity has helped more than 50,000 people with disabilities in more than 68 developing nations gain increased mobility and dignity. Watch the story of just one life that has been impacted through this program.
To learn more and find how you can help support UCP Wheels for Humanity visit: http://www.ucpwfh.org.
UCP of Central Florida
UCP of Central Florida, A Special Program for Kids with Special Needs
Check out UCP of Central Florida on the cover of the July publication of Orlando Family Magazine. Learn more about their programs and services at: http://www.ucpcfl.org.
UCP of Sacramento and Northern California
Autistic boy breaking through barriers with program's help
Great article on UCP of Greater Sacramento's Autism Center for Excellence and how it is breaking barriers by helping to improve social skills of autistic children. Visit http://ucpsacto.org/programs-services/autism-center-for-excellence-a-c-e/ to learn more about the program.
UCP affiliates around the globe are accomplishing great things every day. Take a peek at what they're doing.
Are You Familiar with the Bellows Fund?
The Bellows Fund is a national program operated by UCP that provides assistive technology equipment to individuals with disabilities. This program is available only through UCP affiliates.


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Discover a selection of top forums boba detective on the internet. Come to share your passion on forums boba detective and meet other fans of boba detective. Then, why don't you create your own forum of boba detective ?
Omejo technology (Hong Kong) Co. , Ltd. is a leading manufacturer in producing Wholesale spy detective equipment, Home Security Camera Systems, spy hidden camera, spy camera series, Surveillance Camera, our factory is base in mainland china, set up
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Take the role of an LAPD Officer, K9 Officer, Detective, Tactical Officer and more...
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subset: commoncrawl


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- Infowars - http://www.infowars.com -
Everything Is Rigged: The Biggest Price-Fixing Scandal Ever
Posted By Adan On April 26, 2013 @ 12:58 pm In Economic Crisis,Old Infowars Posts Style,Tile | Comments Disabled
Matt Taibbi
Rolling Stone
April 26, 2013
Conspiracy theorists of the world, believers in the hidden hands of the Rothschilds and the Masons and the Illuminati, we skeptics owe you an apology. You were right. The players may be a little different, but your basic premise is correct: The world is a rigged game. We found this out in recent months, when a series of related corruption stories spilled out of the financial sector, suggesting the world's largest banks may be fixing the prices of, well, just about everything.
You may have heard of the Libor scandal, in which at least three – and perhaps as many as 16 – of the name-brand too-big-to-fail banks have been manipulating global interest rates, in the process messing around with the prices of upward of $500 trillion (that's trillion, with a "t") worth of financial instruments. When that sprawling con burst into public view last year, it was easily the biggest financial scandal in history – MIT professor Andrew Lo even said it "dwarfs by orders of magnitude any financial scam in the history of markets."
That was bad enough, but now Libor may have a twin brother. Word has leaked out that the London-based firm ICAP, the world's largest broker of interest-rate swaps, is being investigated by American authorities for behavior that sounds eerily reminiscent of the Libor mess. Regulators are looking into whether or not a small group of brokers at ICAP may have worked with up to 15 of the world's largest banks to manipulate ISDAfix, a benchmark number used around the world to calculate the prices of interest-rate swaps.
Article printed from Infowars: http://www.infowars.com
URL to article: http://www.infowars.com/everything-is-rigged-the-biggest-price-fixing-scandal-ever/
Click here to print.
Copyright © 2015 Infowars. All rights reserved.


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Reach tens of thousands of people instantly by advertising with Ekklesia. Find out more
A senior Church of England bishop has criticised evangelicals who backed the campaign to end the transatlantic slave trade and highlighted how his predecessors justified the trade and opposed William Wilberforce's attempts to end it.
Quakers in Britain have launched an online exhibition of archived resources tracing the history of the anti slavery movement from its Quaker beginnings to the passing of the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act in 1807 and beyond.
A gathering in Musselburgh will trace the footsteps of a famous son of a black Jamaican slave
As the bicentenary of the end of the transatlantic slave trade approaches Jonathan Bartley says we are enslaved until Africa is free
Bicentenary of UK Parliament's Abolition of Slave Trade
Web www.setallfree.net
As the UK commemorates the end of the slave trade, an original sculpture has been commissioned by Christian Aid and National Museums Liverpool from a group of Haitian artists representing their continuing struggle for freedom and human rights.
A slave market whipping post once stood where the high altar now rises inside Zanzibar's 127-year-old Christ Church Cathedral. Here the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, began the Eucharist on 18 February 2007 with prayers asking "forgiveness for the past, mercy for the present, and humility for the future" - writes Bob Williams for Episcopal News Service USA.
In a move that has been welcomed by campaigners, the Prime Minister has announced that Britain will sign up to a European convention to "stamp out" human trafficking.


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Recording the colours of pollen loads
William D J Kirk
Why record colours? The plant species from which pollen loads have been collected by bees can be discovered by identifying pollen grains from the pollen loads under a microscope. This is usually accurate and can often identify the pollen to genus or species, but it is very time consuming and requires considerable expertise. Identification of pollen loads by their colour is much faster, if sometimes less exact. It can be assisted by knowledge of the flowering times of the local flora and of the characteristic sizes, shapes and textures of pollen loads from particular species.


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BOTOX® Injections Treatment
Notice the improvent in lines around the eyes and forehead, with a "lifting" effect in the eyebrows.
Patient DetailsSex: Female
Procedure performed on: Head, Face
Before and After Pictures
Contact the Doctor
Use the form below to request more information from Luis F. Rodriguez Terry, MD.
Share This Page
Practice Snapshot
Office Hours
Please contact the office for complete details.
Certifications & Memberships
|American Board of Plastic Surgery


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Yōji Kuri is a fantastic Japanese animator. Here is "Love of Kemeko". Enjoy.
Eight Crazy Nights (2002)
Adam Sandler's Eight Crazy Nights is a 2002 animated musical comedy film co-written by and starring Adam Sandler. Unlike most mainstream holiday films, it is centered around Jewish characters during Hanukkah season, as opposed to religious or secular celebration of Christmas. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GK6mqri6-3w http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERSyTv82jQY http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3I0aVI5bN58&feature=related http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rz52eO2S0mA&feature=related http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTnFAbNV3mc http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h43SSP1mbSQ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RdgaenTqGL8&feature=related http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KiQ_Ez90C5I&feature=related
The Butterfly Ball (1976)
Just a good ol' fashion weird movie from the 70's. With Roger Glover, Twiggy, Vincent Price, Tony Ashton and more! The Butterfly Ball (1977) from maxmiller435555 on Veehd.
Gulliver's Travels (1939)
Gulliver's Travels is a 1939 American cel-animated Technicolor feature film, directed by Dave Fleischer and produced by Max Fleischer for Fleischer Studios. The film was released on Friday, December 22, 1939 by Paramount Pictures, who had the feature produced as an answer to the success of Walt Disney's box-office hit Snow White and the Seven […]
The North Wind and the Sun
I really love Aesop's Fables. Here's one titled "The North Wind and the Sun". It's from 1972 Canadian Tv and runs only about 3 minutes.
Animal Farm (1954) – Animated
Animal Farm is a 1954 British animated film by Halas and Batchelor, based on the book of the same name by George Orwell. It was the first British animated feature released worldwide, though not the first British animated feature ever made. It can, however, be said to be the first British animated feature film on […]
Lorax (1972)
The Lorax is a children's book, written by Dr. Seuss and first published in 1971. It chronicles the plight of the environment and the Lorax, who speaks for the trees against the greedy Once-ler. As in most of Dr. Seuss works, most of the creatures mentioned are original to the book. The book is commonly […]
Twice Upon a Time (1983)
"Twice Upon a Time" is a delightful 1983 animated feature film directed by John Korty and Charles Swenson. It has been named one of the most important films in the history of stop-motion animation and was the first animated film George Lucas produced. The film uses a form of cutout animation, which the filmmakers called […]
Waking Life (2001)
Waking Life is a digitally enhanced American live-action rotoscoped film, directed by Richard Linklater and released in 2001. The entire film was shot using digital video and then a team of artists using computers drew stylized lines and colors over each frame. The film was Fox Searchlight Pictures' only production using this technique.


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Before arriving as a freshman each student is randomly assigned to one of the twelve residential colleges, giving Yalies a built-in community from the moment they arrive. Most Yalies quickly become convinced that their residential college is the best residential college. Each college is home to a microcosm of our undergraduate student body as a whole, allowing students to have the cohesiveness and intimacy of a small school while still enjoying the vibrancy and resources of a world-class university.
- Learning at Yale
- Living at Yale
- Student Pursuits
- Virtual Tour, Blogs & Video


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Black and white nails are ideal for any time of year, and any occasion, so they're perfect...
NAILPRO-file Featuring: J'adore Nail & Spa
What products do you use in your salon and why did you choose them?
CND Retention (acrylic-liquid)
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Gel Polish (Shellac, opi, Gelish)
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Regular Polishes (OPI, CND, China Glaze, Essie)
What's the best compliment you've received about your business?
That we're sanitary (clean) and new (always introducing new products that we have in our industry.)
What is your craziest/funniest salon story?
We had a few clients walk in at the same time who just sat down in the waiting area. One of the clients was a man who had come to our salon a couple of times before, but when he walked in this time, no one recognized him because he had a hat covering his face and he just sat there. We thought he was waiting for someone getting her nails done, so we didn't really bother him. He sat there so quietly! 2 hours later, all of the clients had left already. The other workers and I looked at each other and had the same thought, "What is that man waiting for, there's no one in here now!" One of the girls walked up to him and realized that he was sleeping the whole time with his hat covering his eyes. Finally we realized we all knew him as a regular 2-3 week client. We woke him up and asked him what we could do for him. He said, "I am here for a manicure." When he looked at the clock he didn't realize it was that late. He didn't even know that he had been sleeping for 2 hours. We felt so bad because one of us could've take care him way before then. We just apologized him. He was laughing and felt embarrassed that he fell asleep while waiting!


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Man Climbs Over 95,000 Feet to Break the World Record
California native Craig Cannon bought his first road bike last year and already holds the world two-day elevation record
Fan's Guide to Tour de France Summit Finishes
Get ready for fireworks as racers let it all hang out in the mountains
The Biggest Mistake You're Making on Climbs
Get to the top faster—and fresher—with these smart strategies
Climb Mount Everest—on a Bike
It's silly, masochistic and insane—so of course we love it. Here are six places you can climb the equivalent of the world's tallest mountain
Get Off Your Ass With Out-of-the-Saddle Intervals
How to train for explosive, standing power
How to Train for Climbing—Without Hills
No mountains? No problem. Get climbing fitness with these simple tips.
Climb It All!
Pile on the watts to ascend the steepest roads
6 Great American Climbs
Test your legs on these American climbs that rival Europe's most storied ascents
Ask Bicycling
All your ride quandaries, solved


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Linda Hamilton, watch out!
Emilia Clarke has been tapped to play Sarah Connor in the reboot of "The Terminator."
The "Game Of Thrones" starlet will team up with Arnold Schwarzenegger, who's back in his signature cyborg role for the highly-anticipated flick. Jason Clarke is rumored to be playing her son John Connor.
Emilia nabbed the iconic role after a series of test shoots. Brie Larson was another actress vying for the role.
The character was originally played by Linda Hamilton in the classic movies directed by James Cameron.
In the new movie, Sarah Connor is the future mother of John Connor, who grows up to be the leader of the human resistance in the war between humanity and cyborgs.
"The Terminator" reboot is slated to hit theaters July 2, 2015.
Click "Launch Gallery" above to see Emilia and her "Game Of Throne's" co-stars, on and off the set!
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creature comforts
Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends wins Emmy, kudos from my son
I would see the show in passing and think, what the heck is this? It just looked so weird, and the animation is practically primitive compared to today's CG standards. But the concept is somewhat more complicated.
In the Foster's universe, imaginary friends become physical beings the instant a child imagines them. An Imaginary Friend is completely real and can be seen, heard, and felt by all under most circumstances. The only problem is that children outgrow them, and they're left to fend for themselves.
Creature Comforts coming to DVD
If you lamented the early cancellation of CBS' Creature Comforts as I did, don't shoot yourself just yet: all seven episodes will be available on DVD October 9. The set will also include interviews not shown on television.
Creature Comforts began as a UK series, based on the Oscar-winning short by Nick Park (Wallace and Gromit). The American version, like the British version, features real-life interviews filtered through animated animals, resulting in what I thought was a funny and often poignant new way of experiencing everyday conversation among normal people. Apparently not too many viewers felt the same way, because the series didn't last long.
Goodbye Creature Comforts
Did you get attached to the cute animation and humor of the new CBS summer series Creature Comforts? Sorry!
The network has pulled the summer series effective immediately. The most recent episode came in fourth place in its time slot. It will be replaced Monday at 8pm with reruns of The New Adventures of Old Christine.
No word on whether or not they'll show the other episodes online, but you can go to the CBS site and watch previous episodes, read the show's blog, check out other info, and remember what used to be (for now anyway). This show - a summer replacement - must have really been a disappointment to the network for it to be pulled so quickly.
[via BuzzSugar]
What's On Tonight: Kyle XY, Hell's Kitchen, RAW, Heartland
- At 8, CBS has a new Creature Comforts.
- NBC has a new Deal Or No Deal at 8, then the premiere of Age of Love and a new Dateline.
- TLC has two new episodes of Little People, Big World starting at 8, then a new Big Medicine.
- ABC Family has a new Kyle XY at 8.
- American Life has private eye shows at 8: Harry O, 77 Sunset Strip, and Hawaiian Eye.
- At 9, FOX has a new Hell's Kitchen.
- Lifetime has the new movie My Neighbor's Keeper at 9.
- There's a new Monday Night RAW at 9 on USA.
- Also at 9: TNT has the season premiere of The Closer, then the series premiere of Heartland.
- At 10, Food Network has a new Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, followed by a new The Secret Life Of...
- TCM has The Picture of Dorian Gray at 10.
- HBO has a new Big Love at 10.
Check your local TV listings for more.
What's On Tonight: American Inventor, Last Comic Standing, Top Chef
- At 8, ABC has a new episode of The Next Best Thing, followed by a new American Inventor and a new Traveler.
- CBS has a new Creature Comforts at 8.
- NBC has a new Deal Or No Deal at 8, then the season premiere of Last Comic Standing.
- There's a new, two-hour So You Think You Can Dance on FOX at 8.
- TCM has The Big Combo at 8, with Cornel Wilde, then Suddenly, Last Summer, with Elizabeth Taylor, Katharine Hepburn and Montgomery Clift.
- At 9 on CNN, Larry King talks to Regis Philbin.
- There's a new Mythbusters on Discovery at 9.
- BBC America has a new Footballer's Wives at 9.
- Also at 9: the Travel Channel has a new "Fathers and Sons" World Poker Tour.
- At 10, FX has the season premiere of Rescue Me.
- Bravo has the season premiere of Top Chef at 10.
- At 10:30, Comedy Central has the series premiere of Lil' Bush.
Check your local TV listings for more.
What I'm watching this summer: Adam's list
Hey gang, here's a few shows I plan on checking out this summer. Some are old, some are new.
Creature Comforts [Mondays at 8:00 p.m. on CBS]: What can I say that I haven't said already? It's a charming little animated show that pipes the everyday conversation of normal human beings through animated animals. It's such a simple idea, but at the same time it demonstrates how we probably have more in common with one another than we realize.
Ice Road Truckers [begins June 17 at 10:00 p.m. on the History Channel]: This new series focuses on truck drivers who risk injury and death while driving their big rigs across frozen lakes. It's one of the world's most dangerous occupations, and one I wasn't even aware existed until hearing about this new series a few months ago.
What's On Tonight: Monday Night RAW, Hell's Kitchen, Big Love
- At 8, CBS has a new Creature Comforts.
- TLC has two new episodes of Little People, Big World at 8.
- USA has a special Monday Night RAW starting at 8.
- ABC Family has the season premiere of Kyle XY at 8.
- Also at 8: Bravo has a new Inside The Actor's Studio, with Kyra Sedgwick.
- At 9, FOX has a new Hell's Kitchen.
- ABC has a new Ex-Wives Club at 9.
- Lifetime has the new movie In God's Country at 9.
- HBO has the season premiere of Big Love at 9, then a repeat of the first ep of John From Cincinnati, if you missed it last night.
- At 10, NBC has a new Dateline.
- Food Network has a new Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives at 10, then a new The Secret Life Of...
Check your local TV listings for more.
What I'm watching this summer: Anna's list
I'm actually looking forward to summer television this year as a break from all the hype and mania surrounding shows like Lost, 24, and American Idol. I get a little burned out on all the talk as the mainstream media outlets (Today, Good Morning America, all cable news channels) try to get their grubby hands on a fraction of the ratings for each show by covering them... heavily.
This summer, I'm taking it easy. I'm watching a few intense dramas that I enjoy and picking up a few more new programs that look light-hearted. No reality programming here. And, unlike Bob and Jonathan, I don't feel any allegiance to Studio 60. It's just not good.
What's On Tonight: Creature Comforts, Hell's Kitchen, Monday Night RAW
- At 7, WE starts airing Kate & Allie (two episodes).
- At 8, CBS has the series premiere of Creature Comforts.
- NBC has the Ducks/Senators game at 8.
- TLC has two new episodes of Little People, Big World at 8.
- The History Channel has two new episodes of Cities of the Underworld at 8.
- Some private eye shows on American Life at 8: Harry O, 77 Sunset Strip, and Surfside 6.
- Julia Louis-Dreyfus is interviewed on a new Inside The Actor's Studio on Bravo at 8.
- At 9, ABC has a new Ex-Wives Club.
- The new season of Hell's Kitchen starts on FOX at 9.
- Larry King interviews Jack Kevorkian on CNN at 9.
- USA has a new Monday Night RAW at 9.
- At 10, FX has the season finale of The Riches.
Check your local TV listings for more.
Creature Comforts preview clips - VIDEO
As I said in my early review of the new CBS animated series Creature Comforts, I never saw the original Channel 4 version from the UK, so I couldn't compare and contrast, but I loved the pilot episode of the American version, which creator Nick Park (Wallace and Gromit) is also involved with.
Luckily, I found a video preview of the pilot episode via Animation Magazine, and I've placed it below for your viewing pleasure. I absolutely love the idea of putting the words of regular folks into the mouths of these animals, because in doing so, it makes the stories seem less personal and gives them a more universal appeal. It's one of the smartest and cleverest ideas for an animated series I've seen in a long time, and it's nice to see another animated series that, not unlike King of the Hill, doesn't rely heavily on random weirdness to be funny (not that I have a problem with "random weirdness," I just like variety).
Creature Comforts debuts on CBS this Monday at 8:00 p.m.
Creature Comforts -- An early look
I have never seen the original Creature Comforts, neither the Oscar-winning short film by Nick Park and Aardman Animation, nor the British TV series, so I can't compare the new American version to them, but I can say that the upcoming CBS animated series Creature Comforts is one of the most engaging and charming things I've seen in a long time.
Don't expect something goofy and fast-paced like The Simpsons or Family Guy, because that's not the kind of laughs this series is going for. Instead, the series takes interviews with regular people and then sticks their words into the mouths of cartoon animals. For example: two men sniffing wine become two dogs sniffing another dog's butt.
Animation news: another Drinky Crow clip, Creature Comforts and Birdman the video game
Here's some animation news from the past week:
You can see a short clip from the new Drinky Crow series for Adult Swim here. The series is based on the Maakies comic strip by Tony Millionaire. It debuts May 13.
Also in Adult Swim news: our pals over at Joystiq picked up on news of a Harvey Birdman: Attorney at Law video game that'll be released this fall. There's not much news on the game just yet, other than it'll be developed by Capcom for the Playstation 2 and PSP.
CBS orders up American version of Creature Comforts
I wonder if they will change the look of the characters for the American version? Specifically, the toothy overbite. For some reason, that works really well with the British accent. Hopefully they'll find a way to make these characters distinctly American.
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Soft adventure
Playing at being a Kalahari bushman is all very well, as long as you can come home to a fluffy towel and a G&T, says Jamie Doward.
Features p2
Spain loses out to Greece
A blockbuster film, bombs and a new tax make tourists think again.
Book ends
Oman & the Arabian Gulf
News in brief
Stay in Singapore for only £1
Hip Parisian hotel targets the young fashionistas
The Pershing Hall, 49 rue Pierre Charron, Paris
Get your kit on
Silk travel pyjamas
Features p4
Ask the experts
Our Lonely Planet experts answer your travel queries.
Features p5
That's enough Larkin about
Coventry is where poet Philip Larkin said his childhood was 'unspent': it's appropriate then that half the sites on the city's new Larkin trail no longer exist, says Stephen McClarence
Features p6
Starlight express to Neverland...
Who says you need a gas guzzler to get from 'Frisco to LA? Carol McDaid rides the railroad to Hollywood, via Michael Jackson's place and cool Santa Barbara.
Features p8
No tricks but a real treat
Liz Bird tries out the less-travelled Florida by swimming with manatees
Features p11
Like nothing else on Earth
Mike Carter is blown away by a space shuttle launch at Cape Canaveral and marvels at the scale of Kennedy Space Center.
Features p12
Move over Mickey
Joanne O'Connor discovers there is life in Florida outside Disney World.
Hotel check
Hard Rock Hotel, Orlando
Features p14
Fly by charter, baby
It's one of the first questions many of us ask the travel agent when we're going on a family holiday. 'Is it with a schedule airline?' Er, no, it's with Swordair/Royalair/Dodgyair (delete where appropriate).
Quick escapes
All the offers from the paper along with a clutch of web exclusives.


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Emailvision is a leading cloud marketing platform that delivers personalized messages and recommendations to customers via email, mobile, social, web and other channels. The company has more than 3,000 customers around the world today. Each year Emailvision runs more than 5 million marketing campaigns and delivers over 50 billion personalized marketing messages from our cloud platform. Emailvision has offices across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, and was recognized in 2012 by Inc. Magazine as one of the world's fastest growing privately-held software companies.
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Should You Buy Pro Testosterone?
Do you feel like a different man than you used to? Are you more tired? Weaker? Less able? Is your sex drive lower? Are you having trouble performing in general?
If so then you could have low testosterone. Low testosterone happens perfectly naturally and can make you feel all of these things.
It happens naturally and to all men at some time. There is good news though, Pro Testosterone really can help.
What is Pro Testosterone?
Testosterone is a vital male hormone and has been linked to the sex drive, energy levels, strength, scalp hair loss as well as the accumulation of abdominal fat. It is key to your strength, well being and energy levels.
When we are young we produce large amounts of testosterone, but as we age this level steadily decreases. This can lead to reduced sex drive, weakness, lack of energy and associated muscle loss and weight gain.
Pro Testosterone naturally counteracts this and helps the body retain its natural testosterone restoring a more youthful vigor.
How does it Work?
Pro Testosterone is a supplement formulated by expert herbalists and contains natural ingredients specifically chosen for their ability to address the problem of low testosterone.
These supplements are 100% natural, and best of all have no adverse side affects. The supplements contain a dose of 600mg of Trigonella foenum-graecum (Fenugreek) seed extract.
Though there has been much research indicating a positive correlation between Fenugreek, sex drive, libido, muscle strength and energy, scientists have not determined the exact biological mechanism through which this works. It might be due to a saponin compound found in Fenugreek seeds called diosgenin, which can affect the sex hormones.
"It probably works to increase testosterone or androgen levels, which decrease with age," states Dr. Raj Persad, a consultant neurologist.
In a double blinded randomized and placebo controlled study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research (available on PubMed at: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21312304) a standardised Trigonella foenum-graecum and mineral formulation achieved a 'significant increase in the subdomains of sexual arousal and orgasm'.
The study recruited 60 healthy males between the ages of 25 and 52 and randomized them to an oral dose of either placebo or 600mg of standardised Trigonella foenum-graecum per day, the same dosage contained in Pro Testosterone.
The group not on the placebo reported 'an overall positive effect on physiological aspects of libido' as well as 'satisfaction with muscle strength, energy and well-being'. (Steels, E., Rao, A. and Vitetta, L. (2011), Physiological Aspects of Male Libido Enhanced by Standardized Trigonella foenum-graecum Extract and Mineral Formulation. Phytother. Res., 25: 1294–1300. doi: 10.1002/ptr.3360)
What Are Real People Saying About Pro Testosterone?
Pro Testosterone has gained significant popularity in the market and many men now use it as their product of choice to restore or improve their masculinity and to help them achieve a healthier lifestyle and physique.
"I felt so tired and run down all the time before finding out that I had low testosterone. These pills I bought really helped me and now I feel like my old self. Thank you so much"
Dave, IL
"I feel 20 years younger after taking this supplement. I think its great, and it has put me back on my feet!"
Brian, NM
"To be honest I doubted that it would do anything since I don't really trust reading comments like this one, but boy was I surprised when I started to feel better than I have in years."
Lee, OR
Where Should You Buy Pro Testosterone?
This is where you need to be cautious. There are many people selling cheap testosterone supplements online, but the quality is not assured and you should never take anything if you do not know what is in it.
Pro Testosterone should always be bought from the official supplier. That way you can be confident that what you are taking is the real thing and that you are not putting your health at risk. Cheaper is not necessarily better, not where your health is concerned.
The official website also offers a 90 DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE on any unopened items purchased from them. In the above study the recipients reported positive results within a 6 week period on the same dose so that gives you plenty of time to send the product back if you are not satisfied.
Is This Something You Should Try?
If you have any of the symptoms above then it is definitely worth it. After all you have very little to lose and it has changed many men's lives.
It is not difficult to find comments written by people who have benefited from herbal supplements and from Pro Testosterone in particular. It is a natural supplement tried and tested by many men without side affects.
However, as normal, if you are suffering from any of the above health issues you should contact your health professional for advice. Evidence shows that it can help support your natural testosterone production, but your health professional might advise other interventions alongside this if they feel it is necessary for you.
This supplement has the evidence and honest testimony to back it up. If it has helped so many other people why wouldn't it help you?
==>Click Here Right Now To Go Over To The Official Pro Testosterone Site Where You Can Try This Supplement Absolutely RISK FREE<==
Comments on this entry are closed.


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The Authors
6 Latest Pipistrelle Blogs
Month Archives
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A Pipistrelle (Our Yacht Motif)
Monthly Archives: October 2009
September on Pipistrelle
It was no surprise to return to find the boat covered in another layer of dust! While still out of the water (2 days of traipsing sand from the yard up the ladder and onto the transom) we arranged for … Continue reading
Posted in Spain
Back in the ……
….UK Laying Pipistrelle up in August meant we could spend a whole month (and how short that is!) away from the Spanish heat, holidaymakers and return to the more temperate climes of the UK. Throughout July when we berthed at … Continue reading
Posted in England, Great Britain
The Balearics to Almerimar (return)!
And a belated update to the blog! On leaving Ibiza for Altea on the mainland, we had a beam reach with winds of 10-12 knots, ideal for the new cruising chute, which was duly hoisted, and flown almost the whole … Continue reading
Posted in Spain


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Atlanta Braves v Detroit Tigers
Cory Gearrin of the Atlanta Braves pitches in the eighth inning of... News PhotoAmerican League Baseball,Atlanta Braves,Baseball - Sport,Baseball Pitcher,Comerica Park,Detroit,Detroit Tigers,Eighth Inning,Horizontal,Match - Sport,Michigan,National League Baseball,Sport,Stadium,USAPhotographer Leon HalipCollection: Getty Images Sport 2013 Getty ImagesDETROIT, MI - APRIL 27: Cory Gearrin #53 of the Atlanta Braves pitches in the eighth inning of the game against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park on April 27, 2013 in Detroit, Michigan. The Tigers defeated the Braves 7-4. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images)


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NEW Lappin Puukko Hunter. Hand made in Finland
One of the hardest steeled knives we sell, superb hunting knife from Finland
Blade length 95 mm (3.8").
New carbon steel blade has been induction-tempered for extremely demanding use. The mouth of the blade has been tempered to a hardness of 63 HRC. The favourite of huntsmen and fishermen! Handle made from waxed Lapland birchwood and ergonomically shaped.
Sheath made from tough tanned leather. New, strong carrying link, lasts "from father to grandson". Lifetime guarantee covering material and manufacturing defects. For hunting, fishing, camping, whittling, as a gift for outdoor people.
1. Order by Phone
Give us a phone call at
2. Order Online
Purchase through PayPal by using the "Add To Cart" button above or use the form below to order the Lapin Puukko Hunter .
3. Questions?
Feel free to contact us if you have any questions about the Lapin Puukko Hunter .