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1. Find a soothing, memorable song for you and your baby. Make it yours. Dance with your baby to this song every night. Sing it, whether you sing well or not. Someday, this one song will be your special way of putting your child to sleep without even having to try.
2. Nickname your newborn, repeatedly and often. Eventually, one will stick and it will be your special, secret code.
3. Don't be afraid to touch your little one. Babies are fragile, but they need your loving touch as much as mom's. Kiss their foreheads, those puffy cheeks, and of course, their lips. Put your noses up to their hair and take in that wonderful new baby smell (preferably with a clean diaper on).
4. Take every opportunity to rock your baby to sleep. As time goes by, you will find a "nook" in your elbow where they fit just right.
5. Every so often, while they sleep, take time to listen to them breathe. Place an ear up to their chest or near their face, and just listen. It is undeniably one of the most beautiful sounds in the world.
6. You can never check on them too often in the middle of the night. You may very well do this up until the teenage years. That's okay - it comes with the territory.
7. Babies usually cry for one of three reasons: Hunger, Discomfort (usually the diaper, a fever, or gas pain), and the need to be held and loved. Respond to these cries by going down this checklist. The last thing you want to do is ignore the cries. Ignoring the cries of a baby before the age of 12 months can actually instill a sense of distrust later in life.
8. Sometimes, crying may very well continue on and on and ON, and you won't know why. Don't take it personally - your baby loves you unconditionally at this point. Respond with loving care and if necessary, see a doctor. If you have a colicky baby, rice packs heated in the microwave and applied to the tummy, warm baths, and rocking/singing are lifesavers (see #1 above).
9. Raising a new baby is a tag team sport. Don't ever expect mom to handle it all. Other than breastfeeding, you are fully capable of everything she is, but don't interrupt her instincts. She may need bonding more than you do, but you can and should pinch hit at any time, and any time usually means it is most needed in the middle of the night.
10. When your babies are awake, stare deeply into their eyes and simply feel the rush of indescribable love. Savor it for as long as possible.
My name is Rianne Maldonado and my family and I moved from Tucson, Arizona two years ago this December to beautiful Northern Idaho. My husband and I have two daughters and one son, a dog, a cat, and a hamster named Vera. In addition to being an Advanced Signing Time Instructor, I am a Certified Lactation Educator-Counselor from UCSD in sunny Southern California. As a mother, I am involved in and seriously committed to my children's' education, but sometimes more importantly to their need to feel safe, secure, loved, and heard. It is important to me that children feel free to express their wonderful selves and I feel as a parent it is my responsibility to give my children effective tools to do so. Teaching them to use sign language provides so many benefits from an educational standpoint, but more importantly from a communication standpoint.
In early June of 2009 my daughter, Ruby, was four months old when she and I attended a "Signing Story Time" at our local Tucson library. I had such a great time and was so fascinated, that I just couldn't wait to learn more! I signed up for all of the private classes that day and couldn't wait to get started. It was so much fun to learn the signs with other moms and babies, but the very best part of it all was when we started seeing results with Ruby.
Ruby was able to understand our signs very quickly and would show us that she understood. She would smile or kick her legs in response and it was truly amazing. Right around the time she turned 6 months old she signed her first sign back to us. We were in a restaurant and she pointed to her cup of water and signed "water." The people around us probably thought we were crazy because we were just so excited! From that moment on her signing vocabulary just blossomed and not long after that her spoken vocabulary took off as well. You can see a short video of Ruby at 14 months signing "ALL DONE" and "MORE" on my website www.LittleSignsAcademy.com
Today, Ruby is three and a half years old and even though her spoken vocabulary is astounding, so much so that she is already beginning to read, she continues to sign for many reasons. She loves to sign to her 10 month old baby sister (who is now signing "MILK" for everything she loves) and to everyone she meets. She especially likes to "show off" her signing ability to her Grandpa and Grandma when they visit. There are even times when Ruby is very upset or unable to talk (such as this past August when she had her tonsils removed) and she signs. These are times that I am even more thankful and grateful for this alternative method of communicating with my daughter because to me, at the end of the day, it's all about our relationships and communication.
I have always been fascinated by American Sign Language, but when I learned enough to communicate with my daughter I realized how truly amazing this beautiful language is. I knew I wanted to continue my education in ASL and share my knowledge with other families so I decided to become an Advanced Signing Time Certified Instructor through Signing Time Academy. I am working diligently to further my education in ASL and sincerely look forward to signing with you and your baby!
By Melissa Morgan, IBCLC
Milkie Morning Pancakes are made with whole grains, rolled oats, flax seeds, and nutritional (or brewer's) yeast, all of which are generally considered as nutritional galactagogues (they help support milk production). Oats are high in iron and dense with filling, healthy calories. Nutritional or brewer's yeast (used somewhat interchangeably) are excellent sources of B vitamins, which are essential to the health of any body, but especially nursing moms. Additionally, when these cakes are made with pastured, grass-fed milk and eggs, they provide a higher amount of omega 3 fatty acids (beyond those provided by the flax seeds), which are essential to overall good health for moms and babies and are necessary for optimum infant brain growth (delivered via mother's milk); omega-3s are difficult to find in the typical conventionally-farmed American diet.
These Mama Milkie Morning Pancakes are deliciously wonderful and provide nutritional support for the whole family (please be mindful of honey use in infants under a year; brown sugar or other sweetener may be substituted).
Store excess cakes in the refrigerator for breakfasts throughout the week or store in the freezer for up to three months.
Substitute buttermilk for milk and apple cider vinegar. Choose animal milks and eggs that are local and grass-fed/pastured, as they tend to be more nutrient-dense (specifically, higher in Omega-3 fatty acids that are difficult to come by from a meat source in the typical American diet). Aluminum-free baking powder improves the taste of your cakes. Bob's Red Mill is a non-GMO brand.
By Heidi Donnelly, Certified Baby Wearing Instructor
Babywearing changed my life. In fact, it easily makes the top three things in my life that have had the greatest impact. Just under getting married and having children.
Yes, I'm that passionate about wearing my babies and I think every baby should be worn. In fact, every baby expects to be that close to another person and every baby needs to be that close to another loving person.
My name is Heidi and I am so excited to share the art, science and practice of babywearing with you that I could burst. Thank you so much to Margaret and her staff at Mothers' Haven for their willingness to share their space and team up with me to share this passion with you.
I remember the moment I discovered babywearing. It was over eight years ago when my first baby girl (I have three girls now, and a boy) was eight days old. There was another mom at the local Le Leche League meeting and she had a Maya Wrap ring sling. I was absolutely sold on the idea from the moment I spotted that crazy tool. That week I went out and bought one of my very own.
But darnit if I couldn't figure that thing out! And not for lack of trying. I watched the instructional DVD and read the directions and everything, but it hurt my back and just didn't feel right. Naturally, I tossed it in the corner and just carried her around and wondered how some people could make it work and I just couldn't.
Not too much later we learned we were expecting baby #2, who also turned out to be a girl. A local friend of mine caught wind of our coming addition and invited me to hang out at a local park. And she brought an entire basket of baby carriers. Pouches, mei tais, and more mei tais. I was absolutely in love and went home and ordered a mei tai (pronounced MAY-tie).
When it came, I was full of hope that I could make this one work. It was beautiful. Even in my very pregnant state I made my then 2-year-old get in it on my back. It was awesome and I was so looking forward to my new baby to put in it!
After a bunch more research I also managed to make myself a couple pouches. Between those and my new mei tai, I was set for life! Or so I thought.
Our baby girl arrived and as soon as I got her home from the hospital, I tossed her in a pouch. It was the best thing I ever! I remember walking down the stars with this new little bundle all snug as a bug in that pouch and my husband looked up and said, "Wow! You're such a natural!" I have a photo and I still love that picture today.
The mei tai was also absolutely amazing. I bought one for a friend of mine, too. We both were in love and wore our new babies everywhere. Then, one crazy day, I discovered the woven wrap. After a very brief discussion with my husband (Honey, I'm buying a wrap), I ordered one. Then I spent the next three days waiting for it and watching videos and studying tutorials to figure out how to use it. When I got it and got it washed and dried, I threw my baby in it on my back!!
Suddenly, I was completely un-stoppable. And I had the photographic evidence to prove it! I had mastered pouches, mei tais and now the ever daunting WRAP!!! What was there left for me to conquer?!?!
Then I was pregnant, again. I realized that I did in fact have one carrier left to conquer. I was still a ring-sling-ding-a-ling, as a friend affectionately dubbed my lack of ring sling skills, something I found out was not all that uncommon after all. So I set out to figure it out. I had been attending local babywearing meetings for some time and was studying their take on the ring sling. But I still lacked confidence. And now I was pregnant and had pregnant brain. But I was going to figure it out! I was determined.
The day came when I had my third baby girl. I wowed the hospital staff when they walked into my room to find me walking around with my hours-old baby tied on my front in a wrap. This time I just couldn't wait until I got home to tie her on. It just felt right to start right from the very, very beginning.
When I went home I eyed that ring sling in the corner taunting me. I looked away, gathering courage and summing my new-found knowledge. I must have faked it out, because when I grabbed it after all those years of intimidation, I could feel its shock and horror. Served it right!
Resistance was futile. I had mastered it! I had in fact mastered it to the point that it became my new favorite carrier! I even went to the local babywearing meeting and the leader told me that when I walked in she thought, "Oh! Heidi had her baby! . . . But that can't be Heidi! She's wearing a ring sling!"
Now I was not only un-stoppable, I was invincible. The baby boy we had just a short eighteen months ago has been in a carrier from hours old and is still worn daily in all manner of carriers. I own a stroller, but rarely use it.
All four of my children have directly benefitted physically and emotionally because we use babywearing daily at our house. As a family, we have hiked all over Idaho the last three years with two carriers and all of our kids. So many great benefits, great adventures and great memories and all thanks to the power of babywearing!
In 2010 I had the great privilege of being on the planning committee for the International Babywearing Conference in Rigby, Idaho. I was also recently elected to the Babywearing International (BWI) board of directors. It is an honor and a privilege to be an advocate for the age-old and world-wide practice of babywearing.
I can't tell you how glad I am that I didn't give up after my ring sling experience. I'm glad I found support and continued down the road my instincts were leading me. Babywearing changed my life. It's enriched my life and the lives of my children and my husband—the awesome babywearing daddy of our little family. I would love to share the art with you! Come join us at a FREE BWI meeting where I will share the art and science of babywearing, discuss different carriers, different ways to use them, and help you find the one (or more!) for you or master the what you have.
Bring your questions. Bring your carriers. Bring your babies!
By Beth Barclay, ICARE Director
Parenting is ONE TOUGH JOB! Full of rewards, beautiful moments, laughs and love. But the reality of raising children today is that parents can become overwhelmed, exhausted and stressed. We get it. We're the ICARE Program of St. Vincent de Paul and we know how the life of a parent can be. All over Kootenai County, we provide parents with the expert information, tips and support they need and deserve to be the best parents they can be.
"Nikki's" family had been homeless over a year, due to unemployment. She and her husband had both lost their jobs. That made life quite challenging for them and their 3 children, with another on the way. Eventually they were able to get into an apartment through Idaho Housing and have now been stable there for a year. She found a job within walking distance so they could start saving for a car. Nikki and her husband took a class in budgeting and are very carefully managing their finances. The 4 children are now ages 8, 4, 3 and 8 months. With 2 of them in diapers, she knows exactly how many diapers she needs to buy in a month. Some months they can't save for a car because they need to buy diapers. (Food stamps don't cover diapers.) In spite of these life challenges, Nikki is a wonderful mom and is so proud of her children, especially Baby Danielle. She takes tremendous joy in seeing Danielle reaching her developmental milestones right on time. She's crawling now and will be walking soon!
ICARE offers Home Visits with one-on-one parent coaching to support parents like Nikki by providing them with current, reliable and practical information on a variety of parenting topics related to raising children from infancy through adolescence. Child development, parent-child interaction, brain development, development –centered parenting and family well-being are some areas we cover.
ICARE also offers 10 week parenting classes in the community called Nurturing Skills for Families. Our next one begins Jan. 11, 2012 at Skyway Elementary School. Please call us at (208) 676-1515 or visit the ICARE website for more information.
We are a nonprofit organization funded by grants and donations. Many thanks for your Diaper Drive this year on behalf of all the babies and parents we serve!
By Heidi Higgins, Certified Wellness Educator
Pregnancy can be a wonderful experience where a great deal of personal energy is given to the miracle of life. It is often full of wonder, excitement, anticipation and feeling of euphoria. It is also a time where tremendous changes are taking place in your body. Hormonal, circulatory, structural and emotional changes all present a variety of physical and emotional challenges that need to be addressed while still attempting to maintain a sense of normalcy from day to day. Did you know that quality essential oils are safe to use during pregnancy and can help to minimize the discomforts? Here are a few examples:
During pregnancy essential oils can help to reduce swelling & water retention, ease heartburn or morning sickness, minimize chance of tearing & promote restful sleep. There are also a number of post labor discomforts that can be aided with the use of essential oils.
Additionally, essential oils are safe to use on baby & children and can help with a variety of issues ranging from diaper rash and constipation to the common cold. They are great to keep on hand for first aid too!
These are just a few ways in which essential oils can benefit you during and after your pregnancy. It is important to note that not all essential oils are created equally. In fact, many that are purchased (even at health food stores) are poor quality and even contain synthetic ingredients. I do suggest only using oils that are Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade. Anything less than this grade may not produce the desired results and can, in some cases, be extremely toxic.
By Eileen Bagan, RN, BSN, IBCLC
World Breastfeeding Week is August 1st - 7th. This annual event draws attention to the health impact of breastfeeding for both mother and baby. Worldwide, more than 170 countries celebrate this week.
The theme for this year's celebration, "Talk to Me! Breastfeeding-a 3D Experience", focuses on the importance of communication in supporting those families who have chosen human milk and breastfeeding for their infants. Communication is an essential part of protecting, promoting and supporting human milk feedings. In today's world, we can connect with others anywhere in an instant, which is truly amazing!
Hilary Clinton stated it takes a village to raise children. Well, this same philosophy can also apply to the family that has chosen to breastfeed. We must embrace, empower and educate all those who are a part of the family unit.
Educating why human milk is like no other food: species specific even different from mother to mother; multiple immune properties to protect the infant; multiple disease protection properties for both mother and infant are just some of the amazing educational facts. Supporting the breastfeeding family in the hospital after delivery by assisting with feedings and continuing the educational process for them and their visitors throughout the hospital stay.
Informing the mother and families of community support groups available in our area: Mother's Haven, WIC Peer Counselor Program, Outpatient Consults at Kootenai Medical Center with a Lactation Consultant or private sector Lactation Consultant. It is a continuum throughout the pregnancy, delivery and post delivery time period that women and their families need this support and constant communication avenue.
In January 2011, Surgeon General Dr. Regina M Benjamin called to action all sectors of society to help remove obstacles facing women who want to breastfeed. "They shouldn't have to do it alone. Whether you're a clinician, a family member, a friend, or an employer, you can play an important part in helping mothers who want to breastfeed."
At Kootenai Medical Center, we are proud to hold Baby Friendly Designation. We strive to promote, protect and support mothers and their families. We know it takes time, patience and perseverance when learning to breastfeed your baby. We along with the other community agencies are here to assist you in your feeding needs before, during and after your hospital stay. Our Lactation Department is proud of our program and will continue to be here for you as needed. We thank Mother's Haven for their incredible efforts to support, promote and protect breastfeeding for mothers in our community.
By Jenny Piazza
Juice Plus Distributor
My name is Jenny Piazza. I am a wife, a mother of three beautiful children, and on a mission to provide parents with information and helpful tools to achieve maximum health for their families.
The one thing almost everyone agrees on is that eating more fruits and vegetables can improve our health and reduce the risk of cancer, stroke, and heart disease. Every fruit, veggie, nut, and grain has thousands of phytonutrients, which help our body ward off diseases. However, very few of us eat the frequently recommended 7 - 13 daily servings for various reasons, such as: 1) the increased price of fresh produce, 2) the lack of availability of seasonal produce, and 3) sometimes, children don't want to eat the veggies and other healthy foods we provide for them.
I would like to share with you a product my family uses to help bridge the gap between what we should eat and what we actually eat. It is called Juice Plus+. Juice Plus+ is an all-natural, whole food based nutritional product made by juicing a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, and then concentrating the juices into powders using a proprietary, low-temperature process. It comes in capsule or chewable form. Juice Plus+ is NOT a vitamin supplement. It provides WHOLE FOOD based nutrition.
Clinical research has found that Juice Plus+:
Additional health tips:
It is the perfect time of year to shop at your local Farmers' Markets. Local Farmers pick their produce right before bringing it to market, which allows it to fully ripen on the vine increasing the nutrient value. In addition, produce in-season not only tastes better it is also cheaper.
Eat all the colors of the rainbow!!! Make sure the colors are deep and vibrant. For example, pick the reddest strawberries or the darkest green broccoli. The deeper and darker the color, the more antioxidants and vitamins the fruit and veggie provides. You can turn this into a fun educational game while shopping with your children.
For more information on Juice Plus+ please contact me at (208) 691-8147 or refer to my website. I will be holding future wellness presentations at Mother's Haven starting in August.
By KC Loveland
Certified Placenta Encapsulation Specialist (CPES)
Studies show that 50 - 80% of postpartum women suffer from the baby blues or minor postpartum depression. Symptoms like weepyness, mild anxiety, and irritability often go unchecked and untreated; chalked up to fatigue from a tough labor, or the stresses of motherhood. The symptoms last about two weeks and gradually diminish within the first month. Although the time frame may seem manageable to a non-postpartum adult, to a postpartum mother and a newborn baby the first two weeks prove to be an important mother and child bonding time often weighted by the baby blues. We spend hours during pregnancy planning and researching, choosing just the right gear and equipment to help our babies be the best they can be and to help us be spectacular parents, but little thought is put into our emotional wellness postpartum. The fact is, there is a natural way to fend off the baby blues, increase lactation, increase energy and speed healing: Placenta Encapsulation!
"Ewwww! Eat my placenta! Yuk!" Well, it's not like were putting it in lasagna here! (Although, that would be beneficial as well). Placenta ingestion by the mother is not a new practice, in fact it has been a customary practice for postnatal women in Chinese and Vietnamese cultures for centuries. The placenta is rich in iron, vitamin B6, protein, as well as numerous other vitamins, minerals, nutrients and hormones. Traditional Chinese medicine has been using placenta for thousands of years to promote lactation, and modern science backs it up! New research is happening every day proving the benefits of placenta ingestion on the postpartum woman.
The placenta preparation technique used by PBi Certified Placenta Encapsulation Specialists (CPES) has been carefully developed using ancient Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) methods paired with modern sterile practices. Your placenta is handled by a PES with the utmost care and respect. The preparation and encapsulation take place right in your home, where you are welcome to watch the entire process if you wish. Your placenta will be handled under strict OSHA, EPA, and FDA guidelines, and processed legally and carefully. The placenta is processed, dried and put into easy to swallow capsules extending the benefits of placenta ingestion throughout your postpartum period and beyond!
The vast majority of women who have chosen to take placenta for its benefits have shown outstanding results. When the capsules are taken women report a noticeable difference in mood. The benefits of placenta encapsulation for mother and baby are being discovered daily by women in our area, the positive feedback is overwhelming! Now that encapsulation services by a CPES are available in our area pregnant women can make their plans to reap the benefits of placenta encapsulation, and have a happy and healthy postpartum for themselves and their precious new babies.
Go to KC Loveland's website for more information or call her at (208) 310-0922 with questions or to book your encapsulation.
Book in June (no matter your due date) and mention this article to receive $10.00 off your Placenta Encapsulation services.
by Dr. Pamela Langenderfer
Naturopathic Physician, Licensed Acupuncturist
Fellow of American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine www.Lakeside Holistic Health
Hormones are funny little things, you can't see them but they have a very powerful effect on our day to day well being. When a woman's hormones are out of balance she may experience symptoms such as PMS, fatigue, irregular periods, infertility, or depression, to name a few.
Naturopathic medicine and acupuncture can offer a safe natural way to restore balance. Chinese medicine is the oldest continuous recorded medical system, dating back over 4,000 yrs. Chinese medicine is not about stimulating your hormones but restoring them and your body's natural balance. Chinese medical treatments are designed to work with nature rather than against them. Restoring optimal health permits the natural fertility state.
Acupuncture by itself can increase fertility rates by 60%. Acupuncture can improve fertility and pregnancy rates in several ways:
It is generally recommended to prepare the body for pregnancy for 3 months before becoming pregnant. This usually entails herbs, nutritional supplements, weekly or biweekly acupuncture, exercise, and a healthy diet.
Acupuncture and naturopathic medicine are also great noninvasive choices for postpartum women. Herbs are used to nourish the body after birth which can help with energy and postpartum depression. Optimizing hormones at all phases of life is important for women especially when planning to conceive.
Hello, I'm Amy Gates! I'm the mother of a beautiful, smart and funny 7 year old girl. I love being a mom, and I truly believe in the saying "It takes a village to raise a child". Mother's Haven for me is part of that village.
I first visited Margaret at Mother's Haven about 8 years ago when I was pregnant with Penelope. I brought Penelope to Mother's Haven for infant massage with Margaret. I absolutely loved these classes and I remember Penelope loving them as well.
I have fond memories of Margaret fitting me for a Bravado nursing bra and dropping by the store to learn how to properly wear my Maya Wrap sling. I loved visiting the ladies at the store and always hoped of working at Mother's Haven one day.
For the past 8 years I have been teaching yoga and prenatal yoga, and I became a certified DONA doula. I have a passion for health, yoga, balance in life, the miracle of pregnancy, the joy of birth and of-course babies! What better place to express my passion than to join the team at Mother's Haven? The opportunity came to me at the perfect time in my life and I have been with the Mother's Haven team for almost one year!
My labor with Penelope was difficult and long and afterward I found myself even more passionate about a healthy, happy pregnancy and encouraging women to visualize and work for their ideal birth journey. It's wonderful for me to see moms each week in my prenatal yoga classes and then have the extreme honor of being their doula! It's a wonderful bonding experience and each birth I attend it feels like the first. The miracle of birth and the power, strength and courage of a woman in childbirth continues to be awe inspiring.
I love going to work each week and helping moms, dads and babies. I relate so deeply with the moms that come in with tears in their eyes because they are overwhelmed and don't exactly know how to deal with the extreme hormone changes they are experiencing. I love seeing those tiny babies and helping moms learn to wear our different wraps. I love the patient dads and grandparents that come in and wait while their loved one gets fitted for the perfect bra. I love seeing the smiles and hearing the laughter of our spirited moms group that meets on my day at work.
Our little team at the store feels like family and I love spending time with them and learning from each of them! Margaret often jokes that I have so much fun at work making new friends, and it's true. Doing what you love is such a blessing. Mother's Haven is so much more than just a retail shop or a place to work. It's a support center and a loving home for customers and employees alike!! I look forward to seeing at Mother's Haven!
Pregnancy is a blessing and a joy! Whether it is your first pregnancy or your 4th, many women enjoy the changes in their body and the preparation for the arrival of the new family member. The better you take care of yourself during your pregnancy the better you will feel. Proper nutrition, rest, exercise and minimizing unnecessary stresses in your life are all required for a happy and healthy pregnancy. One way you can take care of yourself and bond with your growing baby is prenatal Yoga.
The word "Yoga" has its root in the Sanskrit word "yuj". Yuj means to merge, join, or unite. Yoga is the union of the heart, mind, body and soul. Yoga is an ancient study and has recently has become mainstream. The physical and mental benefits of yoga are limitless. Yoga can decrease stress, help to build strong, lean muscles, create an inner peace and serenity and help you feel more centered and focused. Meditation and breathing can clear your mind so that you may better deal with life's challenges. There is no better way to bond and connect with your baby than through Yoga.
In today's busy society it is difficult for a woman to take the time to enjoy her pregnancy. Yoga can help meet this need. A good Yoga class offers a safe, nurturing environment specifically designed to guide you through the journey of pregnancy. Using yoga postures and breathing will bring awareness to your mind, body and spirit and enhance your bond with your baby. Yoga will help you build physical and mental strength, both crucial for labor and delivery. Using Yoga's breathing techniques and meditation you can prepare yourself for the challenges of labor and delivery. It is safe to practice Yoga during your entire term and you can begin Yoga at any time during your pregnancy.
It is important to find a certified Yoga teacher that is certified and trained in prenatal Yoga care. Amy Gates is a certified prenatal yoga teacher, and has been teaching in Coeur d'Alene for over 8 years. During her undergraduate studies at University of Washington, she found a love for Yoga and women's health. With a degree in Zoology, and after practicing yoga for over a decade, Amy decided to pursue what had become a passion, and became a certified yoga teacher in 2002. During her first pregnancy, she furthered her studies with world renowned prenatal Yoga teacher, Colette Crawford, R.N., in Seattle. Since then she has also trained with Shiva Rea. Now certified to teach pre and post natal Yoga, Amy wants to bring this wonderful experience to expectant mothers locally. She continues to teach in the Coeur d'Alene & Spokane areas and has enjoyed guiding women through their individual journeys while creating a friendly and nurturing community of pregnant women. Amy is also a certified DONA Doula and enjoys offering labor support to her prenatal yoga clients.
For prenatal Yoga classes held at Parkside Studio, taught by Amy please call (208) 818-5883 or email us at info@parksidefitness. You may also go to our website www.parksidefitness.com. For more information on prenatal Yoga and its benefits to you and your child, or doula services, please contact Amy Gates at (208) 691-7409 or email her at firstname.lastname@example.com


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Dairy Queen® Nutrition Facts
Banana Cream Pie Dream Pie Blizzard, Small sized
frozen treat with banana, banana cream pie mix, vanilla soft serve, pie pieces and whipped topping
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subset: commoncrawl


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Ricky Martin Honduras Concert Gets The OK
UPDATE: The Honduras government has lifted the age restriction that was originally placed for anyone 15 and under.
Good news!!
The Honduran government has authorized Ricky Martin's concert!
A few days ago, some religious leaders wanted to prevent the show from happening because they deemed Ricky a bad example because of his gay ways.
There is one small catch though – you must be older than 15 years to see Ricky's performance.
A government official said that they placed an age restriction due to the bisexual content and the erotic and sexual scenes of the concert.
We get protecting kids from sexual content – gay, straight, bi – so we won't argue with that.
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MEMPHIS, TN (WMC-TV) - The 70's mini-series "Roots" first sparked my interest in genealogy four decades ago, and now, the NBC series "Who Do You Think You Are?" has given it another boost.
For the past several weeks, a group of a group of genealogy experts have been helping me trace my roots. They did the same thing for my colleague, Joe Birch. We did it to show you how easy it can be done, and what resources are out there to help you do it.
Carol Maynard knows that to get to the beginning you have to start at the end.
"So many people come in through the Centers and want to start looking for great-grandmama and eight Sallys over here," she said. "But you need to focus. It makes it a lot easier."
Maynard has been helping Mid-Southerners trace their roots for years at Family History Centers across the Mid-South.
She's personally responsible for uncovering my family history.
Full disclosure: I was not born in the Mid-South. I'm from California, and I lived on the West Coast my entire life until I moved to Memphis. It was quite a surprise to learn my roots are right here in the Mid-South.
Like millions of other African Americans, my roots trace directly to the slave era, and Amite County, Mississippi.
"This is the one that I have been researching," Maynard said. "I believe that he is going to have slave history, because I could find him in 1880, 1870, but I could not find him in 1860. I couldn't find him in 1850."
Shoco Jones was considered property until the Emancipation Proclamation of 1862. Carol showed me the 1860 slave census.
"The slave owner's name is Makaja Jones, and you'll notice that's not his information. That is the information of Shoco," Maynard said. "They did not list Shoco by name, but he would have been - if he was born in 1842 - he would have been 18-years-old in 1860 slave census.
An 18-year-old slave, with his owner's last name: Jones. It turns out that my family tree is full of people named Jones.
But slave records are hard to trace - you really have to know the slave owner's name. Once Shoco was freed, he married a woman named Missouri.
My story starts in Africa, through the Caribbean Islands, and then goes to the Port of New Orleans - the same route so many other slaves took during the 18th and 19th centuries. From there my ancestors moved to Arkansas, Alabama, Mississippi, and South Carolina. Many of them were probably sold to plantation owners.
I'm proud to say my past is full of surprises, each a snapshot of American history. Maynard found that one of my ancestors fought in World War One, while another married a full-blooded native American.
In the end, the amassed stories of my ancestors are something that I will be able to pass on to my daughter, so she can answer when someone asks, "Who do you think you are?"
It's research Maynard enjoys carrying out.
"You may laugh at me, but I really felt close to them when I was doing the work," she said. "Because sometimes, you feel things. And so I just know that they were happy to see that their little Ursula is looking for them."
Tune in Wednesday night at 10pm when we trace the roots of Action News 5 anchor Joe Birch.
To use the same resources Joe and Ursula used to trace their roots, click here: http://www.familysearch.org/eng/default.asp
To find a Family History Center near you, click here: http://www.familysearch.org/Eng/Library/FHC/frameset_fhc.asp
Additional sites:
Copyright 2010 WMC-TV. All rights reserved.


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Pontiac collides with 3-axle truck, closes Highway 119 for almost three hours
A man suffered major injuries and was pinned in the wreckage of a sedan after an early morning crash in Valley Acres Friday.
The accident happened on Highway 119 east of Cherry Avenue just after 3 a.m.
The California Highway Patrol said the victim, believed to be an Oregon resident, was northbound on the highway and for unknown reasons his Pontiac G6 drifted into southbound lanes and collided head-on with a 3-axle, 80,000-pound oilfield service truck.
Officers are speculating the driver of the Pontiac may have fallen asleep.
The victim was taken to Kern Medical for treatment after being extricated.
His name was not released.
The driver of the truck was not injured, the CHP said.
A dog in the car was killed.
Highway 119 was blocked for almost three hours and the road was reopened just before 6 a.m.


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Rebecca Hunau and Stella Chu swept three opponents in a juggled lineup to help Simi Valley High advance to the Southern Section Division I quarterfinals with a 10-8 girls' tennis victory over Los Alamitos in a second-round match Saturday at Rancho Simi Community Park.
Hunau and Chu (63-0) usually play at No. 1 doubles for Simi Valley (18-4), but they were in the No. 3 slot to help the Pioneers match up better with seventh-seeded Los Alamitos (14-6).
At No. 2 singles was Simi Valley's top player, Mindy Gondrez, who won two of three sets.
In other girls' playoff tennis matches:
Newport Harbor 17, Camarillo 1--Lauren Gaona, ranked 66th in the girls' 16's division in Southern California by the U.S. Tennis Assn., defeated Jenny Meyer, 6-2, to give the Scorpions their only victory in a Division I second-round match at Newport Harbor.
Gaona's two losses were by 6-2 scores, but Camarillo (14-6) did not win a game in six other singles sets. The No. 2 team of Jenny Underwood and Michelle Alvarez lost in a tie breaker, 7-6 (7-1) and doubles play was more competitive, as Scorpions took 29 games, but still lost all nine sets.


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Galloway Fieldsports
by Hoggett Creative
The Client
Galloway Fieldsports is the new style of fieldsports business. In the hunting, stalking and game shooting communities there has been little cross over to draw everyone together to the benefit of the sports person. What makes them different is that they want everyone to get the access they need for deer stalking, rough shooting and driven days for game birds such as duck, partridge and pheasant but at the right price and through the best providers whether in Scotland, England, Wales or even Croatia.
Brand Identity - Logo Design
The main logo was created to be flexible - with the abiiity to change the logos image to one appropriate to the subject they were promoting. For example: wild bore, jackal or fallow deer. The logo had to work in print, web and also had to be embroidered on to performance clothing.
Commercial Lifestyle Photography
We arranged a day of photography in to the woods to produce a range of commercial lifestyle images that were to be used on their website and facebook page. This enabled us to accurately portray Paul Adkins as the tutor and assessor in his place of work.
Website Design and Development
We developed a full Content Management system to allow our client full access to keep the site up to date with training courses and dates, also this enables him to advertise shooting holidays that he attends with clients. This also helps with SEO (search engine optimisation) enabling google and other search engines to easily find the site and help place him higher in all search engine results.
- ClientGalloway Fieldsports
- CategoriesGraphic Design
Photography and Video
Web Design


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From CBC's Q:
Sunnyside sketch comedy show spoofs yuppie universe
The new sketch comedy show Sunnyside takes a closer look at the various species that populate the modern concrete jungle — from roving gangs of drunk party girls to snarky bearded baristas. The often surreal show, which recently premiered on City TV, has been described as a refreshing critique of contemporary urban life. Actress and writer Kathleen Phillips and co-creator and co-producer Dan Redican join guest host Daniel Richler to discuss the show's "absurdist take on a neighbourhood in transition". Listen here.
Diane Wild
Diane is the founder of TV, eh? She loves books, movies, TV, science, space, traveling, theatre, art, cats, and drinking multiple beverages at the same time.
Latest posts by Diane Wild (see all)
- The legacy of Denis McGrath - March 24, 2017
- Crash Gallery returns for a colourful, chaotic second season - February 5, 2017
- Myth or Science: The Secrets of our Senses comes to The Nature of Things - January 18, 2017


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Items where Subject is "(C) Ecosystems > (CB) Marine > (CBB) Deep Sea"
Group by: Authors | Item Type
Number of items at this level: 4.
Diaz, M. C. (2005) Common Sponges from Sallow Marine Habitats from Bocas del Toro Region, Panama. Caribbean Journal of Science, 41 (3). pp. 465-475.
Huntington, Brittany E. and Kamauskas, Mandy and Babcock, Elizabeth A. and Lirman, Diego (2010) Untangling Natural Seascape Variation from Marine Reserve Effects Using a Landscape Approach. Technical Report.
Precht, W. F. and Aronson, Richard B. and Moody, Ryan M. and Kaufman, L. (2010) Changing Patterns of Microhabitat Utilization by the Threespot Damselfish, Stegastes planifrons, on Caribbean Reefs. Prone Journal, 5.
University of Belize, Environmental Research Institute (2011) STATUS OF MARINE ECOSYSTEMS AT TURNEFFE ATOLL. Technical Report.


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|Aspects and Symbols
Applying and Separating Aspects
Astrology Brain Dump™
Daily Horoscopes
Dignity and Debility
Glossary of Terms
Grand Cross
Grand Trine
Moon in a Sign
Moon Phases
North and South Nodes
Pet Sun Signs
Planetary Glyphs
Retrograde Motion
Rising Signs
Rising Sign Calculator
Sun Signs
Transits and Progressions
|February 2019 Astro-Memes
January 2019 Astro-Memes
December 2018 Astro-Memes
|What is a Void of Course Moon
2018 Void of Course Moon Calendar
|Neptune in Pisces
Pluto in Capricorn
Uranus in Taurus
Uranus in Aries Retrograde Nov. 6, 2018 - Mar. 6, 2019
|Mars Moving Through The Signs Calendar
Jupiter Moving Through The Signs Calendar
Saturn Moving Through The Signs Calendar
Neptune Moving Through The Signs Calendar
Pluto Moving Through The Signs Calendar
Uranus Moving Through The Signs Calendar
|North and South Node Yearly Transiting Calendar
North Node Cancer and South Node in Capricorn Transiting Degrees Calendar
Jupiter in Sagittarius Transiting Degrees Calendar
Saturn in Capricorn Transiting Degrees Calendar
|What does the North Node in Leo and South Node in Aquarius mean?
Scorpio Moon Shopping & Surgery
How are horoscopes written?
How can I be a Christian & practice Astrology?
What is a Natal Chart?
The Moon is in Virgo until Tuesday, October 17, 2017 at 1:35 PM EDT.
**NOTE -- I write only one (1) Daily Horoscope for all 12 Sun Signs. The Monthly, Yearly and Generational Horoscopes are tailored to each of the 12 Sun Signs.
If you have been keeping up with the October 2017 Astro-Memes then you already knew that today Mercury moves into Scorpio until Sunday, November 5, 2017. Your job is to use the best part of this Mercury energy to your wonderful advantage, and of course that would be the case. Click your Monthly Horoscope (*link above in the teal colored drop-down-menu) to read about your Mercury Opportunity and how this transit impacts your Sun Sign. The Sun, Mercury, Venus and Mars move every 2-1/2 weeks to 6 weeks, which is why these planets are located in your Monthly Horoscope. You can also click this Mercury graphic to read the monster-size write-up on Mercury in Libra and then go to your Monthly Horoscope to read how it impacts your Sun Sign.
This Mercury movement into Scorpio is accompanied by three (3) lunar aspects today. The first aspect is the Moon square Saturn, which may cause you to wake up with an inferiority complex and a pessimistic approach to Life. You may also have a sarcastic tongue. Since this square begins at 1:23 AM EDT, its 'orb of influence' will end in the early afternoon hours (between 2:23 PM EDT and 4:23 PM EDT), which means it is impacting most of right through our entire work day. If you make yourself aware of this, then you can shake yourself right out of your feelings of inferiority.
The next two aspects are conjunctions, which intensify the energies of each other. The first conjunction at 7:27 AM EDT being the Moon conjunct Mars will cause us to act out impulsively and probably more aggressive than usual. This 'can be' really great energy when channeled appropriately. It's when this conjunction is channeled inappropriately that it presents a problem, then its just loud, aggressive and maybe even brazen. If the Moon conjunct Mars is not careful, it can lead others right off a cliff. Remember that! The second conjunction today is the Moon conjunct Venus. This last aspect now involves the Moon is in Libra since the Moon changed signs at 1:35 PM EDT and this last aspect occurs at 9:57 PM EDT. This aspect occurring around bedtime or creeping up on bedtime will present some wonderful cuddle time and a higher probability of getting 'frisky' (if you know what I mean). Men and women alike are kind, gentle and sweet to one another. If you are looking to get more out of your chart or solar return, Click here for a 15, 30, 60 or 90 minute reading with Dr. Standley.
**This horoscope is no substitute for a prescription or medical advice. This horoscope is for entertainment purposes only.
**This web site's goal is to provide you with information that may be useful in attaining optimal health. Nothing in it is meant as a prescription or as medical advice. You should check with your physician before implementing any changes in your exercise or lifestyle habits, especially if you have physical problems or are taking medications of any kind.


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text:
KINGSTON, Jamaica – An 11-year-old ward of the state managed to convince the police that he is a US citizen who was left at the Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA) by his parents on their way back to America.
Later that day the police reported that an eight-year-old US child by the name of Kevin Washington from Miami, was found wandering at the NMIA in Kingston.
However, a follow-up report last evening said the boy is Jevon Thompson, a ward of the state who resides at Reddie's Place of Safety in Kingston, Jamaica.
Several OBSERVER ONLINE readers and Facebook fans on Wednesday blasted the report, saying the boy was no US citizen and was in fact a ward of the state that was constantly running away. They also argued that he was about 12 or 13 years old, and not eight as was reported.
The police say Jevon was found wandering at the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston about 12:55 pm Wednesday. When checks were made, he said that his parents were waiting for their departure to Miami. He added that while there, he went to use the bathroom and upon his return, they were no longer there.
Checks were reportedly made since the report was published and the police say they found that Jevon has been reported missing from the place of safety on multiple occasions.
The police have since taken Thompson back to the home


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Schedule 2009
Performance Dates and Venues for 2009
Reading is Magic! has been funded by the Local Cultural Councils at the following locations for 2009:
6 February, Imagine Nation Museum, Bristol CT, 5:00-8:00 p.m.
7 February, VT/NH Fair Convention
15 February, Chesterfield CT, Winter Carnivale
17 February, Wildwood Elementary, Amherst MA, Amherst Leisure Services, 2:00 p.m.
18 February, Worcester MA, Higgins Armory, 1:30 p.m.
22 February, Orange MA, Orange House of Pizza, 4:00-6:00 p.m.
28 February, Mount Snow, Dover VT
19 March, Charlemont MA, Hawlemont Regional School,
Start of a 5 week "Reading is Magic" workshop
20 March, Whitman MA, Louise A. Conley Elementary, 10:00 a.m.
22 March, Orange MA, Orange House of Pizza, 4:00-6:00 p.m.
24 March, Whately MA, Whatley Elementary, 9:30 a.m.
24 March, Worthington MA, Russell Conwell Elementary, 2:00 p.m.
25 March, West Bridgewater, Rose L. MacDaonald Elementary 9:00 a.m.
25 March, Haverhill MA, Golden Hill Elemetary, Title 1, 5:30 p.m.
26 March, Charlemont MA, Hawlemont Regional School, "Reading is Magic" workshop
28 March, Blackstone Valley Regional H.S. Milford Area CoC, 11:00-2:00
1 April, Suagus MA, Suagus Public Library
2 April, Charlemont MA, Hawlemont Regional School, "Reading is Magic" workshop
6 April, Boylston MA, Boylston Elem. 8:45 a.m.
7 April, Charlemont MA, Hawlemont Regional School, "Reading is Magic" workshop
16 April, Charlemont, Hawlwmont Regional School, "Reading is Magic" workshop finale,
Students Performance Night, 7:00 p.m.
17 April, North Brookfield MA, North Brookfield Elem., 9:00 a.m.
18-25 April, Away on vacation
26 April, Orange MA, Orange House of Pizza, 5:00-7:00 p.m.
30 April, Holden MA, Gale Free Library, 6:30 p.m.
4 May, Ludlow MA, St. John the Baptist, 12:30 p.m.
6 May, Rehobeth MA, Palmer River Elementary
24 May, Orange MA, Orange House of Pizza, 4:00-6:00 p.m.
27 May, Orange MA, Orange After sShool Program, 12:30-3:00, Magic performance and workshop
30 May, Templeton MA, First Church of Templeton Spring Fair, 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
3 June, Pittsburg Ma Stearns Elem.
5 June, Winthrop MA, Arthur T. Cummings Elementary, 1:00 p.m.
6 June, Needham Need Biz Assoc
9 June. Salem MA. St. Joseph Field Day
14 June, Erving Ma, Erving Public Library 4:30 p.m.
19 June, Hubbardson MA, hubbardston Centre School Field Day
19 June, Greenfield MA, Grennfield YMCA, Walk Around Magic 6:00 p.m.
20 June, Williamsburg MA, Meekins Public Library, 1:30 p.m.
22 June, Orange MA, Butterfield School, Free Summer Lunch Program
24 June, Marblehead MA, Abbott Public Library, 10:30 a.m.
24 June, Medway MA, Medway Public Library, 6:30 p.m.
27 June, Oakham MA, Fobes Memorial Library, Town Block Party
28 June, Orange MA, Orange House of Pizza, 4:00-6:00 p.m.
7 July, Orange MA, Wheeler Memorial Library, Alien Balloon Twisting
8 July, East Bridgewater, East Bridgewater Public Library, 11:00 a.m.
9 July, East Longmeadow MA, Est Longmeadow Public Library, 2:00 p.m.
10 July, Orange MA, Brown Bag Lunch at the Park, 12:00 p.m.
15 July, Lakeville MA, Lakeville Public Library, 1:00p.m.
16 July, Lawrence MA, Lawrence Public Library, 10:30 a.m.
18-19 July, Midsummer Magick Renaissance Faire, Oxford CT, 11:00 a.m.- 6:30 p.m.
21 July, Winthrop MA, Winthrop Public Library, 2:00 p.m.
22 July, Chesterfield MA, Chesterfield Public Library, 11:00 a.m.
24-26 July, Lamoille County Fair Days, Lamoille VT
27-30 July, Elms College, Step Forward/Quest Ahead
27 July, Brimfield MA, Brimfield Public Library, 1:00 p.m.
28 July, North Attleboro MA, Block Party
29 July, Longmeadow MA, Richard Salter Storrs Library, 2:00 p.m.
1-2 August July, Midsummer Magick Renaissance Faire, Oxford CT, 11:00 a.m.- 6:30 p.m.
3-6 August, Elms College, Step Forward/Quest Ahead
5 August, Agawam, Agawam Public Library, Alien Balloon Workshop, 2:00 p.m.
13 August, Otis MA Otis Library and Museum, 2:00 p.m.
15 August, Montague MA, Old Home Days
23 August, Heath MA, Heath Fair
Agawam MA, Agawam Public Library
Billerica MA, Billerica Public Library
Bolyston MA, Boylston Elememtary
Charlemont MA, Charlemont-Hawlemont Regional
Chesterfield MA, Chesterfield Public Library
Colrain MA, Colrain Central
East Longmeadow MA, East Longmeadow Public Library
East Bridgewater MA, East Bridgewater Public Library
Erving MA, Erving Public Library
Holden MA, Gale Free Library
Lakeville MA, Lakeville Public Library,
Lawrence MA, Lawrence Public Library
Longmeadow Richar Salter Storrs P.L.
Ludlow MA, John the Baptist Elem.
No.Brookfield No.Brookfield Elem.
Marblehead MA, Abbott Public Library
Medway MA, Medway Public Library
Oakham MA, Fobes Memorial Library
Orange MA, Wheeler Memorial Library
Otis MA, Otis Library and Museum
Pittsfield MA, Stearns Elem
Rehobeth MA, Palmer River Elementary
Templeton MA, First Church Spring Fair
Warwick MA, Community School
Weston MA, Weston Public Library
Westwood MA, Looking for a new sponsor in Westwood!
West Bridgewater MA, Rose MacDonald Elem
Whatley MA, Whately Elem.
Whitman MA, Louise A. Conley Elementary
Williamsburg MA, Meekins Library
Winthrop MA, Winthrop Public Library
Worthington MA, Russell Conwell Elem.
(Dates and times may be subject to change without notice. Please feel free to call ahead.)
4, 5, 6, 7 September, Spencer, MA, Spencer Fair
12-13 September, Wapping CT, Wapping JayCee's Fair
26 September, Spebcer MA, GSA Encampment
17-20 September, Tunbridge VT, World's Fair
3 October, Needham Need Biz Assoc. Town Fair
9 October, Private Party, Renaissance Wedding
15 October, Colrain MA, Colrain Central, 9:00 a.m.
17 October, Weston MA, Weston Public Library, 12:00 p.m.
28 October, Melrose MA, Roosevelt Elementary After School Program
28 October, Gilbertville MA, Gilvertville Public Library, 6:30 p.m.
30 Ocotober, Swampscott MA, Clark Elementary, 6:00 p.m.
31 October, Orange MA, Private Halloween Party
5 November, Melrose MA, Winthrop Elementary After School Program
5 November, Warwick MA, Warwick Community School, 7:00 p.m.
5 December, Waltham MA, Piety Corner Club Christmas Party
6 December, Hubbardston MA, Rod and Gun Club Christmas Party
22 December, Worcester Dining Hall, Aux Services, Umass Amherst
28 December, Billerica MA, Billerica Public Library, 6:30 p.m.
31 December, Orange, MA, Starry Starry Night, 6:00 &8:00 p.m.
Back to Places
I've been


text:
Ahem, before I be slaughtered by my noble compatriots and more importantly, before I forget everything from the last few nights, I feel that I must record every blurry moment that I have been subject to over the past couple of days.
And, no no this is not another post about any drunken encounters. Rather, this be about those things that may cause the faint of heart to tremble :) LOL, so as promised to the guys, I figure, that our courageous Apostle must feature in our blog. Here's to you, Pete, for enriching our lives thus on an every day basis.
The following tale is true and bears no likeness to any other you may have heard before:
So our brave and courageous Knight is strolling along and playing the very role of Chivalry. Escorting two beautiful women in the dead of night to their house on the streets of Venkatgiri, he spots a creature in the distance, hurtling steadily towards him. This famed creature, is Goofy (a friendly neighborhood dog, much loved and bearing tremendous respect for the girls).
Smriti, our fair and faint hearted damsel, lets out a brief cry of happiness, upon seeing the lovable creature. This, however, was followed by a blood curling, death initiating yelp from our brave soldier. The stillness of the night, I am afraid, was thus shattered and the fear that might have registered upon the face of all those present causes me to break out into a fit of giggles just writing this down.
There was even a moment, I would believe, when he may have taken swift flight, leaving our innocent maidens to the dangers that befell them. Ha ha, or perhaps he was merely arming himself with screams that may have caused all mortal elements to be sore amazed.
My tale is now concluded. I must be off before this treacherous smile, breaking out around the corners of my mouth, causes those around me to question my innocence. :P
Thursday, December 6, 2007
The Woes & Agonies Of Apostle Gan.
Ahem, before I be slaughtered by my noble compatriots and more importantly, before I forget everything from the last few nights, I feel that I must record every blurry moment that I have been subject to over the past couple of days.
Posted by Shirley at 5:30 AM
4 comments:
- Jerusha said...
ow ow Shirley, you have caused my back much pain from laughing so hard! Did he really do that???
- December 16, 2007 at 6:32 PM
- claytonia vices said...
Thou has exposed the chink in the armour of this noble knight!!
Thine witty narration maketh me LMAOROTFL, princess Shirley! :)
- December 20, 2007 at 9:46 PM
- Shirley said...
Haha why thank you Noble Knight and Fair Maiden...yes yes he really did do that but I cannot take the credit...all praise goes to Peter Gan :=)
- December 28, 2007 at 5:03 AM
- Anonymous said...
Whats's Up i'm fresh here. I came upon this site I have found It quite accessible & it's helped me out alot. I hope to give something back and aid others like it has helped me.
Thanks, See You Around
- June 13, 2010 at 2:28 AM


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Jan Barber-Doyle, Bell Gardens High School
Oct. 21, 2013
We work with a lot of teachers here at UCCI – at the Institutes and in the UCCI Teacher Exchange – and what always strikes us is how creative, innovative, and smart California teachers are. We thought, "Wouldn't it be great to let others know about some of the truly awesome work teachers are doing in their schools and in their classrooms?"
Enter a new feature we're calling, "Teacher Spotlight," where we'll showcase the innovative work teachers all over the state are doing in designing and teaching integrated curriculum.
In this first Teacher Spotlight, we meet Jan Barber-Doyle, who teaches at Bell Gardens High School in the Montebello Unified School District. Jan and her colleagues–Patty Jimenez, Mitchell Paik and Elizabeth Lowe–applied for and received one of our UCCI Pathways Grants, which we were able to offer with expanded program funding in the 2012-13 fiscal year.
The Pathways Grant program allowed UCCI to assist schools in building new integrated courses to sequence around an existing UCCI course and to submit those courses for "a-g" approval. The goal of the grant was to allow schools to expand their integrated "a-g" course offerings in a way that would best meet the needs of their students. With the grant, the Bell Gardens team concentrated on a four-year sequence of courses in Environmental Science built around the UCCI course Biological Energy Links to Energy and Environment.
Jan has taught at Bell Gardens High School since 1998, and before that had more than 20 years of private-sector experience in high-tech manufacturing and production engineering at world-class facilities for Sperry-Univac, Toshiba America, Inc. and Orthodyne Electronics, Inc.
"My personal and professional experiences have shown me that experience is the best teacher," Jan says, "and having multiple opportunities to make mistakes in a safe environment is one of the most valuable lessons."
Jan and her colleagues pursued the UCCI Pathways Grant because they saw an opportunity to bring real-world experiences and problem solving in environmental science to our students to prepare them for jobs that might not even exist yet.
"The world is changing so quickly that we owe it to our students to help them develop the skills and imagination that will usher them into a successful and rewarding life in that future world," she says.
One of the courses designed by Jan and her team is the
recently approved Artistic Links to the Environment ,
which integrates the visual and performing arts ("f") subject area
and the GREEN (Globally Responsible Environmental Education Network) career
pathway of the Agriculture and Natural Resources, Engineering and Architecture,
and Energy, Environment and Utilities CTE industry sectors.
Jan wrote Artistic Links to help 10th-grade students recognize, appreciate and promote the often-neglected connection between humans and the natural environment. Accordingly, the course includes assignments that have students creating pencil studies that illustrate their design ideas "for a garden structure that will improve the aesthetics of a fence line." Another assignment has students designing a small pocket garden under predefined growing conditions, using a catalog of plants (including edibles), and creating color palettes and plant arrangements. With assignments such as these, Artistic Links thoughtfully integrates visual and performing arts ("f") content with the key concepts involved where the multiple career sectors of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Engineering and Architecture, and Energy, Environment and Utilities overlap.
This course will be coupled with a second year of Coordinated Science to complete the foundation work begun in 9th grade. After that, 11th-grade students will take AP Environmental Science plus the CTE course Power Links to the Environment, blending theoretical science with legacies of conventional power generation and transmission, and alternative energies. Seniors in the GREEN Pathway will take an applied science and technology course called Community Links to the Environment where they will intern with local industry on renewable energy projects.
We here at UCCI feel honored to have been a part of inspiring this kind of integrated curriculum work, and we are grateful to Jan for letting us interview her for our first UCCI Teacher Spotlight. You can read the entire text of Artistic Links to the Environment on this Google document.
Read more Teacher Spotlight posts.


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A major financial services institution is hiring for several information technology audit professionals. This organisation is looking for IT Auditors at two different levels, AVP or VP. At the AVP level individuals will not necessarily need financial services experience. At the VP level financial services experience is essential as you will be leading audits. As a you will be establishing effective working relationships with other assurance areas (e.g. Compliance, Risk and CIO as well as with key stakeholders in the Business, particularly at senior and Executive Level, to help influence and develop the Group's risk and control assurance framework. As an AVP you will be delivering on a number of audit projects throughout the organisation with the opportunity to enhance your skills across data analytics and cyber security.
Core responsibilities of this position are:
- Produce high quality and timely audits, delivering to senior stakeholders.
- Extensive understanding of IT and Operational risks and practical application of controls
- Knowledge of the financial services relevant regulatory environment is essential.
- Assurance over IT change projects/programmes
- Mentoring new IT auditors and non-IT audit colleagues
- Experience within Cyber and Information Security is an asset
- Reviewed technology components of audit reports/findings to ensure appropriateness of conclusions
- Infrastructure or Applications focused.
The Candidate
- Will display the ability to write high-quality audit observations and support the senior management in producing a detailed audit report.
- Possess the ability to build relationships in a consultative style in order to see the business perspective.
- The individual will need to develop the Group's ability to audit IT systems, data management and change.
- Strong practical knowledge of risk and controls in technology infrastructure, including processes for managing and maintaining infrastructure (i.e. ITIL, identity and access management)
- Professional qualifications (e.g. CISA, CISM, CISSP, other relevant technical qualification) alongside an educational background.
- Practical experience of the development and execution of testing strategies to assess control environments as part of an internal or external audit role/function, or as part of a risk management function.
The business can offer market competitive salaries with excellent benefits packages and pension schemes. My client offers travel opportunities but can also offer exceptional flexibility for people coming back into the market. My client will not sponsor for this opportunity so you must have the right to work in the UK.
For anymore information please contact email@example.com


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Easter is one of those holiday periods that triggers fond memories of my own childhood and I love seeing the sparkle in my children's eyes as their own Easter experiences are lived, their own memories made. With two young kids aged two and almost six, it's exciting to have the opportunity to create our own family traditions and foster the next generation of Easter escapades. Family, friends, simplicity and adventures - at home or away - all feature as key emerging themes.
This year all of the above themes were central to the four day weekend, which included our first family Easter getaway - a somewhat impromptu trip to a friend's shack on the river Murray, an hour from Adelaide. A late decision to stay for a few nights rather than doing a day-trip made for a stressful but anticipatory city exit as we scrambled to pack, off-load the dog and join in the anarchy otherwise known as pre-public holiday food shopping.
We set off driving through the hills and along the freeway, rationing out lollies and playing eye-spy, then travelling the dirt back roads past farming land where we spotting sheep, cows, horses and a roadside kangaroo. And then from the rise of a small hill we finally spied the Murray and the sleepy settlement of shacks where we would be staying.
photo: Louise Millar
As darkness descended and bedtime neared for the over-tired toddler, I took him away from everyone to sit beside the fire overlooking the river. We sat snuggled cheek-to-cheek, gazing up at the enormous, clear night sky and the mass of visible stars. City nights have nothing on country skies, and he was mesmerised, pointing out the brightest stars. Together we witnessed a shooting star blaze and fade out across the sky, and life felt utterly complete in that simple moment.
The little guy bid the stars goodnight and willingly crashed out in his portacot. Our group moved to the fire, where collectively we shared basic knowledge of the star constellations and toasted copious marshmallows. As we watched my daughter squish multiple marshmallows on to her stick, the girls and I reminisced on the best parts of camping and trips away as a kid - seriously how good were [are!] fires and marshmallows, being under the night sky, hanging out in your daggiest clothes and getting grubby. And here we now sat, watching my kids enjoy similar activities on their weekend away. I felt so grateful for the opportunity for them to experience those activities, so fulfilled watching my daughter's face of concentration as she mastered her marshmallow toasting technique.
The next day was all about an excess of hot-cross buns and chocolate, and being on the river. Our daughter went with the boys to collect the boat and then it was time for the girls to hit the water. The kids piled into the boat to watch - and I have to admit, it's pretty classic having your own mini-me fan club! Later that afternoon we spent another few hours on the boat as the boys all had their turns on the wakeboard and wakeskate. Big sprays, airs and even bigger stacks made for good times [and satisfyingly sore bodies].
We spent hours with our friends and the kids on the boat that day, watching each other ride and stack; spotting pelicans, swans, and circling birds of prey; travelling past agricultural land, sparsely vegetated cliffs, areas of native vegetation and sections of river bank invaded by weedy willows. The kids were captivated with the sporting endeavors, the change of scenery and fresh air, and our daughter had a ball in her role as spotter [perhaps not the most timely spotter but hey, no-one got left behind - for long].
The trip did require keeping a close eye on the toddler given we were so close to water, the shack was on a steep cliff, and we had the fire going both nights - and yet we were able to enjoy an ultra relaxing few days. Whilst we had to be vigilant, the little ones were totally absorbed in enjoying the riverside, boat rides and night sky; identifying the passing bird life; spotting cows across the river; kicking the footy and finally hunting for Easter eggs all rugged up on a misty Easter Sunday morning.
Our Easter presented a relaxing reminder of the magic of childhoods past and present, the importance of family and friends, and the revitalization that comes with time away toasting marshmallows under a country night sky. That Yeats bloke was totally on the money.
I hope you had a safe and enjoyable Easter!
Until next time,


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UTA x TCC is a program specifically designed for students who have a goal of obtaining a bachelor's degree. UTA x TCC takes into account your needs and desires and builds a pathway that eases the transfer of credits and accounts for timeliness to degree completion. The program supports students on all TCC campuses with an embedded representative and allows for financial planning by providing an option for a Guaranteed Tuition Program.
UTA x TCC facilitates an informational exchange between institutions. This allows UTA to create an application for you and evaluate your transfer credit without you having to submit a TCC transcript. Through this time-saving measure, we can get the transfer process started with you sooner and provide resources to help you identify the right coursework.
Pictured Center: Tarrant County College Interim Chancellor and President Vistasp Karbhari with State and Local Dignitaries – photo taken May 2016
Clearing the Path for Transfer Students, The Chronicle of Higher Education, Jan. 1, 2017


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The Sugarcreek Truss Bridge on Sugarcreek Drive was renamed in memory of a fallen Rocky Grove volunteer firefighter during a Saturday morning ceremony.
The bridge was designated two days before Memorial Day as the Lt. Andrew J. White Memorial Bridge in honor of White, who died in the line of duty on Jan. 11, 2001, while fighting a mobile home fire.
State Sen. Scott Hutchinson included the renaming of the bridge in his Senate Bill 1315, which was passed in June.
"Although we feel sadness today, we celebrate a life well lived in service to others; a brave, committed, loyal and courageous young man with a gentle, loving side," Hutchinson said during the ceremony.
State Rep. R. Lee James, R-64th District; Sugarcreek police Chief Matthew Carlson; and Sugarcreek Mayor Jeff MacKenzie also offered remarks, commending White and his 12-year service to the Rocky Grove Fire Department.
A large audience, that included family and friends of White and local firefighters, watched as firefighters from Oil City and Franklin unveiled the signs designating the recently renovated bridge and its new name.


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Description Usage Format Source References
This data set gives the diameter at breast height for each series that
matches the series in
gp.rwl – a data set of ponderosa
pine (Pinus ponderosa) from the Gus Pearson Natural Area
(GPNA) in northern Arizona, USA. Data are further
described by Biondi and Qeadan (2008) and references therein.
data.frame containing series IDs in column 1
series), tree diameter (in cm) at breast height
dbh), and the bark thickness (in cm). This can be used
together with the ring widths to calculate the area of each ring.
DendroLab, University of Nevada Reno, USA. http://dendrolab.org/
Biondi, F. and Qeadan, F. (2008) A theory-driven approach to tree-ring standardization: Defining the biological trend from expected basal area increment. Tree-Ring Research, 64(2), 81–96.
Add the following code to your website.
For more information on customizing the embed code, read Embedding Snippets.


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February 13th, 2012
Tomorrow is Valentine's Day, I guess that's a good thing if your in love and and dreamy for one another. I find it peculiar to command a 'loving day' set in stone, as it seems to be in making it a holiday.
Sure it was fun in grade school because the class got to take time decorating little heart shaped cards with lace and writing your classmates names on them. I remember collecting them, all the different styles and a handwriting – some were very pretty.
I remember one year a stone carver I had met by happenstance through a mutual friend had given me a heart-shaped stone that he made. It was marble or granite, a dark grayish color. It found a place on my dresser with candles and a heart shaped crystal in which I kept my jewelry. Moreover it became known as a mental reference in regards to most of the men that I had known in my life- "cold hearts of stone".
This year is no different. Guy M. wins that distinct notoriety of displeasure. That truth brutally revealed and forever etched in stone as it has been one year in mending mine from his cold-cold heart.
Because of his illustrious disregard for my well being ~ a once held precious work of art suddenly held no value and left abandoned … holding the bag of homelessness.
I have no place to be. Still I have no home. No place to just be me, not at all ~ not for any length of time. It is simply impossible when you exist in a borrowed space within your own (skin) without within your own (home).
Thanks for that lover "be my girl, be my everything, be my wife, my friend … I need you! bla bla bla.
And that's all I've got to say about that.
ToDaY tOdAy


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The Bengali black magic astrologer in the various fields. Bengali Babaji techniques which are to solve the problems or troubles and reach the light method and that feel free to give each and every problem which are high skills. People or group of person maintains a space in the subject of astrology that is the subject of the Vashikaran or in other words, we can also say that the term Astrology is that terms which give the technique about the Vashikaran or formulae of the Vashikaran and this technique of the Vashikaran which can get fulfill the requirement or need of the people or group of person that covers or give the appropriate results which should fulfill the different types of chanting mantras this is implemented under the supervision of the specialized astrologer .
The Vashikaran one's mind that might to be able to process fully as in a dream which is a technical power but it was actually the word of the Vashikaran are used or utilized for the purpose of the benefit of lovers which are used in the sense of love point of view. Bengali black magic astrologer has also solved the different or numerous kinds of problems which are used in the daily life of the humans in which the first one is family or members of the family, the second one is love which is used in the form of affection and attraction the third one is marriage which is used in the form of love marriage or arranges marriage the fourth one is job qualification profession etc.
The Bengali black magic astrologer who will give Mantra and Yantra, which have very effective power and power to get or achieve one's attraction that is towards the people or group of person but there is not forcing anyone to produce feelings for the sense of wearer. Therefore the Vashikaran specialist also says that it is important or necessary to have some degree of Karmic propensity that is established between the wearer and the person wearer that is used in the form of wishes to attract point of view.


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We have listed below the charities supported by New Meadow Street Labour Club. Click on the link to be taken to the relevant charity website.
The NMSLC committee would like to take this opportunity to offer thanks to all those people who organise and attend our charity functions at New Meadow St Labour Club for their efforts and support.
Without you and others giving of their time and money these charities would not survive and disadvantaged people in our community would go without help and support.
Our sincere thanks to you all.


text: Leon and Jackie Dorleans are Haitian national missionaries supported by WSCC. Since the 1990's, the Dorleans' ministry has developed from a single congregation in Cite Soleil to four churches in the Port-au-Prince area. In addition to their work with these churches, Leon and Jackie oversee schools and clinics which enable Haitians to be educated, fed, and cared for.


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The Opposite House Partners with Dragonair to Launch New Inflight Menu Promotion
The Opposite House is proud to announce its inflight menu collaboration with Dragonair for passengers travelling in the First and Business Classes. Close to 30 authentic dishes created by Sureño's Chef Laia Pons Gonzalez will appear onboard Dragonair flights from Beijing to Hong Kong from 16 May to 15 August 2014.
Drawing from the restaurant's culinary roots of Southern Europe and featuring seasonal ingredients Chef Gonzalez has included signature dishes such as: Braised Osso buco with Mushrooms Risotto, Chicken Stew with Mushrooms and Fino Wine Sauce, Caldereta De Pescado Soup, Teresa's Seafood Paella with Spanish Saffron Rice, and Foie Gras Terrine, Fig Puree, Grilled Brioche in Port Wine Balsamic.
"We are thrilled to collaborate with Dragonair for the second time. It provides the opportunity for guests to experience dishes from our award-winning restaurant, Sureño, and also takes travelling in the air to the next level. We look forward to our next inflight menu collaboration with Dragonair where we will present Chinese cuisine through Jing Yaa Tang, a restaurant concept that celebrates Beijing roast duck at its heart with a menu extending to a wide range of favourite dishes from different regions across China." says Peter Wynne, Area General Manager of Swire Hotels Beijing.
Jing Yaa Tang will follow Sureño's footsteps come August, and will also present enticing Chinese cuisine to Dragonair's passengers.


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VERTIC Researcher David Cliff presents to UK PONI
On 10 May 2012, VERTIC Researcher David Cliff presented to the UK Project on Nuclear Issues annual conference in central London. Mr Cliff's presentation, which looked at the possibility of adopting multilateral verification arrangements for nuclear warhead dismantlement undertakings, is now available online on the website of the Royal United Services Institute – see here.
The presentation's accompanying paper is also now available for download – see here.
In his presentation, Mr Cliff argues that multilateralising the process of warhead dismantlement verification would entail a number of benefits for global nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament efforts. In addition, Mr Cliff noted, these benefits will all have positive knock-on benefits for the stability of the global nuclear non-proliferation regime as a whole.
Last changed: May 29 2012 at 11:30 AMBack


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Marula Pure Marula Facial Oil 1.69 fl.oz
- Light, powerful facial oil for all skin types
- Omega-rich with exceptional moisturizing benefits for a radiant finish
- Fast absorbing, light, non-greasy texture
- Provides long-lasting skin hydration
- Leaves skin soft, supple and glowing
A transformation in the world of beauty oils, Pure Marula Facial Oil is light and absorbs into the skin quickly and deeply. Marula Oil provides immediate and long lasting hydration and improved elasticity with 50% more antioxidants than argan oil with no greasy feel. Omega-rich Marula Oil penerates quickly to help hydrate, firm, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for soft, radiant skin. Marula Oil is completely virgin, wild harvested, hand-selected, and cold pressed with no added heat or chemicals ensuring that its beneficial properties are captured in every bottle. This superior facial oil leaves skin soft and plump with increased firmness for healthy, beautiful, age-defying radiance.


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PART II/III PROJECT ARCHITECT - Berkshire
- Recruiter
- CSK Architects
- Location
- Eton, Windsor
- Salary
- Salary is commensurate with experience and RIBA guidelines
- Posted
- 24 Jan 2018
- Closes
- 24 Feb 2018
- Job (Function)
- Architect
- Contract Type
- Permanent
- Hours
- Full Time
CSK Architects are looking for a Project Architect to join our vibrant studio based in the beautiful historic town of Eton, Windsor. The practice is minutes from Windsor town centre, with easy train access from both Paddington and Waterloo stations.
This is a fantastic role:
- If you want to work in a stimulating, friendly office on a variety of interesting projects of high scale value.
- If you are an ambitious, talented individual with strong conceptual design and presentation skills.
- If you have the confidence and ambition to deliver high profile projects.
Our projects are varied, ranging from bespoke residential properties, to developer housing schemes, education, healthcare and commercial buildings. We often work within Conservation areas and historic buildings, where we look to bring the old and new together in an exciting and dynamic way.
Applicants should have:
- At least one years' experience of working in a UK practice.
- Excellent organisational and technical ability, with a good understanding of construction technologies, UK Building Regulations and project running site experience would be preferable.
- Proficient use of AutoCAD and the ability to use 3D drawing packages & InDesign would be beneficial.
- The aptitude to work autonomously when required, with the ability to be client and deadline focused.
This is a full time position, with a three month probation period.


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The Nation: This Is What $15 an Hour Looks Like
From The Nation:
On a crisp November morning in Oakland, 50 people dressed in red T-shirts burst into a McDonald's, bringing breakfast orders to a halt. From behind the counter, several cashiers gaped at the scene, where an orderly line of customers had been replaced by a rowdy crew that bounced and shouted, calling for the restaurant to raise its wages to $15 an hour. A supervisor whipped out her cell phone and began filming. The chant, directed at the workers, grew louder: "Come on out—we've got your back!" After giving it some thought, three female employees walked past their supervisor, clocked out, and joined the protesters. The crowd erupted in cheers.
The group, which included striking fast-food workers from across the East Bay, gathered afterward in the parking lot to celebrate. They would hit half a dozen restaurants before the day was over, part of a nationwide movement that has grown to attract low-wage workers across multiple industries. Among the strikers was Shardeja Woolridge, who works part-time at a McDonald's in the nearby city of Hayward, where she lives with her mother in a two-bedroom apartment. Woolridge earns $9 an hour, California's minimum wage; her mom receives disability benefits. It's not nearly enough. They've received eviction notices and had their electricity shut off. The 19-year-old recently enrolled at Berkeley City College but struggled to pay for textbooks. "I can hardly buy my own soap or deodorant," she says. Behind her, workers hoist a red-and-black banner that reads #fightfor15.
I ask Woolridge what might be different if she made $15 an hour. "Whoa," she says. "Fifteen." Her eyes turn to the cloudless sky. "Whoa," she repeats, her voice trailing off. She could help pay the rent. She could stock the fridge with food. She could afford Wi-Fi. Above all, she could finally stop fighting so much with her mom. "We are constantly butting heads," Woolridge says. "She doesn't understand that I don't have money. I'm like, 'This is really all I make,' but she can't get it."
The movement for a $15 minimum wage began three years earlier, on a chilly fall morning in 2012, when 200 fast-food workers walked off the job in New York City. Their demand was audacious: $15 an hour was more than twice what many of them earned. But more strikes and protests followed, with the movement spreading quickly, driven by workers like Woolridge. What had started as a targeted campaign under the slogan "Fast Food Forward" grew to include low-wage workers across numerous industries.
"Movements are built on big, bold, aspirational demands," says David Rolf, president of SEIU 775, who led the fight in 2013 for the $15 minimum-wage ordinance in SeaTac, Washington, home of the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Rolf credits the Fight for $15 with shaping a "monumental shift in political discourse." It's not just that Bernie Sanders is championing the cause; during a recent Republican presidential debate, the first question to candidates was whether they supported the increase. The Fight for $15 has become the rare labor fight that is too big to ignore.
Still, for workers like Woolridge, a $15 minimum wage remains a bold thought experiment. Certain cities have adopted the $15 standard, but their rollouts have tended to be gradual: Seattle's minimum wage for large employers will reach $15 in 2017, Los Angeles's in 2020. Yet if we walked one block west of this McDonald's in Oakland, we would enter the city of Emeryville, where, last July, the minimum wage for many workers jumped to $14.44 overnight. And now that Emeryville boasts the highest citywide minimum wage in the country—one that approaches and will eventually surpass $15 an hour—it has become a testing ground of sorts. When workers at the bottom of the economy suddenly receive a significant bump in pay, what changes? What doesn't?
* * *
Emeryville is a wedge of a city long over-shadowed by its neighbors, Oakland and Berkeley. It once teemed with card rooms, speakeasies, and brothels, serving as a destination for folks who wanted to do the sorts of things that weren't allowed back home. During the Great Depression, local district attorney Earl Warren—who would later become chief justice of the United States—famously declared Emeryville "the rottenest city on the Pacific Coast."
Today, that frontier feel is mostly gone. In the center of town, where drunken fans once cheered a minor-league team, sits Pixar's sprawling campus. Dozens of biotech and pharmaceutical firms are based in the city, and industrial sites have been scrubbed clean and replaced by the sort of retail development that has taken over suburbs across the country. The city's current reputation, to the extent that it has one, is as the mall of the East Bay. There's a Home Depot and an Ikea, a Gap, J. Crew, and Forever 21. Though it spans just under two square miles, Emeryville boasts four shopping centers, with The New York Timesdescribing it as a "retail mecca."
That mecca needs workers. According to the East Bay Economic Development Alliance, in 2014 there were about 22,000 workers in the city—twice the number of residents. "Emeryville was a gritty industrial place that became a boomtown, a major corporate center," says Jennifer Lin of the East Bay Alliance for a Sustainable Economy, or EBASE, a labor-backed group that supported the minimum-wage hike. But the boom was concentrated at the top: About one in 10 employees in Emeryville—2,227 people—earn the minimum wage. That's roughly four times the national rate.
One of those workers is Ty'Ler Wright. The 23-year-old has worked at Pak 'N Save, the city's largest grocery store, for three years. She applied for the job largely to help her mother, Sonya, who also works there. Growing up, Wright, who has two younger siblings, watched her mom negotiate payment plans to remain a step ahead of bill collectors. The family moved several times before finally renting a house in West Oakland, a few blocks from the Emeryville border. "She never asked me to help her pay, but I had seen her struggle," Wright says, standing next to her mother in the store's parking lot after a shift. "I was not about to be in someone's house and not help out."
Wright was hired as a part-time courtesy clerk, collecting wayward shopping carts and cleaning bathrooms for $8 an hour. It didn't take long to realize the job didn't do much to help the family. Her weekly checks were as low as $150, the money gone practically as soon as it arrived. Still, she stuck it out, landing a full-time schedule and rising to become head of the dairy department. But her wages stayed at the state minimum, which grew to $9 an hour last year.
This spring, news that Emeryville workers would be getting a raise spread quickly at Pak 'N Save. "We were all very excited," Wright tells me, smiling widely. Though it was a warm afternoon in August, she was bundled up in a gray UC Berkeley hoodie to ward off the chill from the refrigerator aisles. "It feels like we're actually making money."
It was less than two months since the raise, but Wright had already noticed a "major, major change" in her life. The obvious difference was financial: After taxes, her weekly checks now come to nearly $500. She can pay her bills, help her mom out, and still have what she calls "rollover money" to put in the bank. This has lightened everyone's load. "My mom is way more relaxed," she says, gesturing to Sonya, who smiles and nods.
The future looks different, too. "With $9, I was thinking, 'Do I really want to do this for much longer?'" says Wright, waving at a co-worker. "Now, we're at the top."
* * *
The movement to raise the minimum wage has swept through the Bay Area like no place else, with each day seeming to bring news of another city that has implemented an increase or is seeking to do so. Recently, the mayors of eight cities in the South Bay—the heart of Silicon Valley—announced that they were contemplating a regional wage that would eventually reach $15 an hour. "Two years ago, if you had said you wanted a $15 minimum wage, it was unthinkable," says EBASE's Lin. "Now, it's virtually unstoppable."
Read the full article from The Nation.


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On 21st December, the EU Gender Directive comes into effect. This will mean that, and the figures are only a guide, term protection life cover costs for females will increase by about 20% and critical illness cover by about 10%. However, men do not get away with it either – income protection for men could increase by 25%.
All courtesy of European legislation and the 'EU Gender-neutral Directive'. The fact that women live longer than men will no longer be reflected in cheaper life insurance costs.
The message is clear: buy now or pay more later. Life insurance is cheaper than you think but won't be at these rates for much longer.
So if you want life cover and related plans, better to consider prices this year rather then next.
Note also that you may be able to pay the premiums through your company and effectively halve the cost.
Thanks to Jim Monger for alerting me to this deadline.


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With Pinterest's user base being estimated to have surpassed the 100 million-user mark, online retailers of all categories have started to incorporate Pinterest as a platform for branding their company and building brand loyalty. 80% of Pinterest's American users are women, making this site a valuable advertising tool for high-end fashion retailers such as Chanel or Tory Burch. However, companies like L.L. Bean have shown that the platform can also be utilized for more affordable, outdoorsy brands. L.L. Bean has effectively used Pinterest to attract new consumers, keep existing ones engaged, and ultimately sell their products.
L.L. Bean uses Pinterest to attract new consumers and engage existing ones by creating boards with a targeted interest. These specific boards display various categories of their wide range of products with examples of how they can be incorporated into the targeted consumer lifestyle. One specific board L.L. Bean has is for Cat Lovers. This may seem a bit odd, since L.L. Bean does not have any cat specific products. The brand was posting pictures of household products such as towels or bags with a cat lying on top. By maintaining these boards, L.L. Bean can continue to please their audience by posting content they know retain to their interests.
So how does using Pinterest benefit companies like L.L. Bean? Pinterest alone drives more referral traffic to retail sites than from YouTube and Twitter combined. A recent survey found that the proportion of Pinterest users who visit retail sites and spend money on them is far higher than that of Facebook or Twitter. It has also been shown that compared to the average internet user, users of Pinterest wield more than double the buying power. One study done by Millward Brown showed that 87% of Pinterest users said that this specific platform helped them make final decisions during the purchasing process. That is why, to a brand like L.L. Bean, Pinterest is the perfect social media platform to portray their products within context of even the indoorsiest consumers' lifestyle.


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Jennie Buckman
It is with great sadness that we have learned of the passing of Jennie Buckman, a dear friend and champion of IKWRO. Jennie was a brilliant woman, who cared deeply about injustice and women's rights. Jennie was a successful playwright and had been head of acting at RADA for 20 years. She was the Founder and Artistic Director of Giants Theatre Company, which puts collaboration with community groups at the centre of all of its productions.
BBC's 'Inside the Foreign Office' gives behind the scenes insight into Government efforts to prevent "honour" based violence and forced marriage
The final episode of the documentary joins the Forced Marriage Unit in a race against time to prevent a 17 year-old British girl from being forced to marry in Iraq.
In the final episode of a three part BBC series which aired last week, viewers were given insight into the work of the joint Foreign and Commonwealth Office and Home Office Forced Marriage Unit (FMU), which leads on the Government's efforts to combat forced marriage in the UK and overseas.
The episode follows the FMU's Sophie Lott – who was nominated for a True Honour Award earlier this year – as she and her team assist a 17 year-old British girl who was taken to Iraq by her family for a forced marriage and threatened with "honour" killing if she didn't go through with it. From the outset of the program, we see Sophie identify this case as "honour" based violence, which is crucial to how she proceeds with assisting the girl.
Festive Appeal for our Women's Refuge
This festive season, IKWRO is raising money to empower and support women in our specialist refuge for Middle Eastern, North African and Afghan women.
We do our best to make sure that the women in our refuge have all the support they need. We provide them with a safe and secure environment, specialist counselling and advice. However, we still have very few resources and would like to be able to provide more.
In 2016, with your help, we raised £3,470 to build a therapeutic garden where women who have escaped violence can relax, exercise and grow flowers and herbs. This year, for our festive appeal, we ask once again for your help.
Every donation and support – from £5 or £10 to sharing our appeal with your contacts – will make a big difference to the lives of the women in our refuge.
Nominations open for True Honour awards 2019
We are delighted to announce that nominations are now open for our True Honour Awards 2019!
IKWRO will present a True Honour Award to a person or organisation that has taken a stand against "honour" based violence, whether in their personal lives or in their work. By recognising and publicising their outstanding courage and commitment, we hope that we can inspire others to act.