In light of today’s unexpected earthquake om the East Coast here is a list of things that one should have in case of an emergency. Developing an emergency plan is a beneficial thing to have when switchboards overload. Why Buy Silver & Gold ? Consider developing a disaster plan with your household members to prepare for what to do, how to find each other, and how to communicate in an emergency. Decide where your household will reunite after a disaster. Identify two places to meet: one right outside your home and another outside your neighborhood, such as a library, community center, or place of worship. Identify all possible exit routes from your home and neighborhood. Designate an out-of-state friend or relative that household members can call if separated during a disaster. If New York City phone circuits are busy, long-distance calls may be easier to make. This out-of-state contact can help you and your family communicate. Account for everybody’s needs, especially seniors, people with disabilities, and non-English speakers. Ensure that household members have a copy of your household disaster plan and emergency contact information to keep in their wallets and backpacks. Practice your plan with all household members. When developing your family’s disaster plan, you should assemble and make copies of vital contact information for each family member. Basic Safety Rules To Help Your Family Enjoy This Summer
Obesity is a leading killer in the African American community. Churches all across the country are getting in the fight for health. They are offering dental care giving out health care kits and getting in the fight to save our families. One such church in the heart of the Delta has been fighting the good fight for over a decade. Now, he has the support of The National Baptist Convention. For over a decade from his pulpit here at Oak Hill Baptist in North Mississippi, the Rev. Michael O. Minor has waged war against obesity and bad health. In the Delta this may seem akin to waging war against humidity, but Mr. Minor has the air of the salesman he once was, and the animated persistence to match. Years into his war, he is beginning to claim victories. The National Baptist Convention, which represents some seven million people in nearly 10,000 churches, is ramping up a far-reaching health campaign devised by Mr. Minor, which aims to have a “health ambassador” in every member church by September 2012. The goals of the program, the most ambitious of its kind, will be demanding but concrete, said the Rev. George W. Waddles Sr., the president of the convention’s Congress of Christian Education. The signs of change in the Delta may be most noticeable because they are the most hard-fought. A sign in the kitchen of First Baptist Church in Clarksdale declares it a “No Fry Zone.” Bel Mount Missionary Baptist Church in the sleepy hamlet of Marks just had its first Taste Test Sunday, where the women of the church put out a spread of healthier foods, like sugar-free apple pie, to convince members that healthy cuisine does not have to taste like old tires. Carved out of the fields behind Seek Well Baptist Church in the tiny town of Lula is a new community garden. The pastor, the Rev. Kevin Wiley, is even thinking about becoming a vegetarian, a sort of person he says he has never met in the Delta. Many pastors tell the same story: They started worrying about their own health, but were motivated to push their congregations by the campaign that began in Mr. Minor’s church. You may read the rest here
Children should be trained in basic etiquette. Each day I feel as if the responsibility to teach our children basic manners has gone right out the window . Just how basic is basic, though? As a teacher and a Godmother, I am stickler for manners. If you don’t use them, you get nothing. My parents taught me that manners built character. Character is what defines you in life. It is the ability that allows you to draw the line on behavior. Here are 8 steps for the basics in manners 1. Saying “Please” Saying “ please” should begin as soon as your child is able to ask for something. If she’s old enough to ask for sippy cup refills, she should be able to tack a “please” onto the request. 2 . Saying “Thank You ” Following close on the heels of “please,” your child should be able to say “thank you” whenever she is given something. She should be able to say thank you to her parents, her teachers, other adults, and her own friends. 3 . No Interruptions This one is harder for kids to grasp, but your child should not interrupt adults when they are talking. If you can at least teach your child to say, “Excuse me, ” before steamrollering your conversation, consider it a lesson taught. 4. Holding the Door for Others This is so basic, but it’s a breach of etiquette that happens all the time–even between adults. Just observe it in a busy mall on a Saturday. It’s so much more pleasant if your child learns to hold the door for you and for others. It’s even better if you can teach them not to bolt in and out of elevators. Be sure to read : How To Help Your Child With ADHD 5. Using an “Inside Voice” Establish a rule in your house–shouting, yelling, and hollering is for outdoor use only. Inside, a normal–or even, dare we say, quiet–voice should be the norm. Again, this is a social skill that is reinforced in school, but it’s one that should be started at home. 6. Walk, Not Run Running is great exercise…for the great outdoors. The great indoors is made for walking. End of story. 7. Basic Table Manners Use a napkin, sit still in your chair, chew with your mouth closed, no smacking, no slurping. We are so often on the go, dining whenever and wherever we can, that these basic table manners are often disregarded but they are crucial to social acceptance. And they make mealtime so much more pleasant for everyone. 8. Sensitivity As a parent, you are responsible for installing a kind of social filter in your child, one that teaches her sensitivity towards others. This means that your child may be curious about people who look different or sound different than she does, but it’s not OK to point at a stranger and loudly describe his differences. Detailed explanations of race, handicaps, or other obvious differences are best had in the privacy of your home. Children leran through pets what behavior is appropriate and inappropriate. Be sure to read: 8 Guidelines For Teaching Children How To Care For Pets Remember to teach at an age appropriate level. Once you begin the behavior children thrive with the expectation. After all, depending on your child’s age, some rules are easy to teach but others are developmentally impossible. Take it one step at a time.
Every so often you hear of pregnancies gone awry. TLC has an entire program dedicated to undiagnosed pregnancies. What if you were told the baby died and found out otherwise? One woman is facing such a dilemma. A British woman was told that she had suffered a miscarriage only to find that her baby was still alive a month later.Catherine Kent, 27, and her partner Kevin Gray, 28, were devastated when they were told in June that their unborn baby had died at eight weeks. She was offered an abortion or pills to shorten the miscarriage, the Daily Mail reported.Kent chose to wait for the baby to pass naturally — and a month later was stunned when a scan revealed that her child was still alive. The couple were elated to learn she was still pregnant, but furious with the hospital for the mistake.”They could have aborted my baby while it was alive,” Kent told the Daily Mail. “How can the hospital make a mistake like that?”Kent is due to give birth to the baby girl in February. The pair have filed a complaint with City Hospitals Sunderland NHS Trust but have yet to hear back. Aren’t There Better Things To Worry About Than Bert & Ernie? [OPINION] EXCLUSIVE: American Idol Alumni Nearly Shot To Death During Robbery
World Youth Day 2012 in Spain begins today. I attended these events regularly throughout my youth and found them to be edifying to my soul. Catholic pilgrims from across the world flocked to Madrid Monday for a youth festival expected to draw more than a million faithful, with the highlight an open-air mass celebrated by Pope Benedict XVI. The World Youth Day festival, which runs from Tuesday to Sunday, has been criticized, however, for the costs involved in welcoming the head of the Roman Catholic Church as Spain struggles with an economic crisis. Gospel Stars & Pastors Send Love Via Twitter To The Family Of Pastor Zachery Tims [VIDEO] But WYD officials say most of the costs would be covered by the pilgrims themselves — arriving from 193 countries — and the event would be a massive tourist boost for the city of Madrid. A huge stage has been erected at the central Plaza de Cibeles, one of Madrid’s most emblematic sites. The square will host three of the four main events during WYD: the opening mass on Tuesday, the papal welcome two days later and the Stations of the Cross ceremony on Friday. On Saturday, hundreds of thousands will be entertained by pop groups at the Cuatro Vientos air base southwest of the capital, where the pope holds a “Prayer Vigil” in the evening. The young pilgrims will spend the night under the stars at the air base with duvets and rugs on a vast esplanade the size of 48 football fields. The 84-year-old pontiff celebrates mass there on Sunday morning at a white altar almost 200 metres (660 feet) long in front of a wave-shaped stage and under a giant parasol “tree”, made of interwoven golden rods that will protect him from Madrid’s brutal August heat. Madrid’s airport was bustling Monday with tens of thousands of excited young pilgrims carrying large backpacks, studying maps to find out how to get to the churches or schools where they will be staying, or waiting for buses.Around 80 percent of the roughly 450,000 people who have registered for the event have already arrived in other Spanish cities and were expected to make the trip to Madrid on Monday or Tuesday, organizers said. Baptists In Louisiana Help Texas Farmers During Drought
A new study indicates that genes may explain about fifty percent of weight gain that begins in middle age. Researchers studied sets of twins who served in the military during the Vietnam War. Some of the twins were identical and shared the same genes, and the others were non-identical twins.After twenty years of follow-up, the study now shows that genes account for about 1/2 of the weight gain among the men. Environmental factors, such as exercise and diet account for the other 1/2. Researchers say the findings may help explain why some people find it hard to lose weight. I Don’t Have Time To Exercise! Your genes and how they effect your weightA new study indicates that genes may explain about fifty percent of weight gain that begins in middle age. Researchers studied sets of twins who served in the military during the Vietnam War. Some of the twins were identical and shared the same genes, and the others were non-identical twins. After twenty years of follow-up, the study now shows that genes account for about 1/2 of the weight gain among the men. Environmental factors, such as exercise and diet account for the other 1/2.Researchers say the findings may help explain why some people find it hard to lose weight. “We’re not acknowledging the strength of genetic factors in our weight loss strategies,” says James C. Romeis, PhD, professor of health services research at Saint Louis University School of Public Health, in a news release. “You’ve got this genetic thing working against you that helps to explain why you’re so heavy and why you may fail at weight loss programs and diets.” Cancer Patients Must Exercise To Prevent Recurrence In the study, which appeared in a recent issue of the journal Twin Research, researchers studied nearly 8,000 middle-aged, middle-class male twins who enlisted in the U.S. military during the late 1960s.At the time of their enlistment as young men more than 3/4s of them were considered normal weight, 17 percent were overweight, and 2.5 percent were obese or severely obese. Twenty years later, less than half of the men were still considered normal weight. Meanwhile, more than half had become overweight. The study showed that about 50 percent of the weight differences among the men appeared to be caused by genetic factors. Other aspects of their lifestyle and environment accounted for the rest. Although genetics may help to explain why some men gain weight more easily and have a harder time losing it, researchers say it should not stop them from trying to maintain a healthy weight, because weight gain doesn’t just happen overnight.
Simba, Mufasa, Nala, Timon and Pumbaa are back and better than ever this fall when Disney‟s “The Lion King” roars into theaters and homes in breathtaking 3D. A special two-week theatrical extravaganza kicks off Sept. 16, 2011, showcasing the Oscar®- and Golden Globe®-winning film on the big screen in Disney Digital 3D™ for the first time ever, and its highly anticipated home entertainment debut kicks off October 4, celebrating the Diamond Edition release of the epic movie “The Lion King” in high-definition Blu-ray™ and Blu-ray 3D™. “„The Lion King‟ is the best-selling home entertainment release of all time—and this is „The Lion King‟ like never before,” said Bob Chapek, president of distribution, The Walt Disney Studios. “The all-new 3D format immerses viewers in the epic settings and puts them face-to-face with these beloved characters. We‟re showcasing one of the all-time favorite Disney movies in theaters and making it available in Blu-ray hi-def and in Blu-ray 3D—it‟s the must-see, must-own title for everyone.” Nearly a decade since “The Lion King” last appeared on the big screen, the upcoming theatrical release invites new generations into the “Circle of Life.” The two-week, 3D-only presentation is a planned wide domestic release—the biggest since the film‟s 1994 debut—and the film‟s first-ever 3D release. The Blu-ray debut marks the first time “The Lion King” has been available in any form since 2004. Featuring pristine high definition picture and sound, the Blu-ray creates an incredible at-home experience with a host of picture and sound enhancements, interactive features and bonus content, including a new set of hilarious animated bloopers. “The Lion King”: Diamond Edition home entertainment release will be available from the Disney Vault for a limited time only beginning October 4 as follows: • 4-Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack (for the suggested retail price of $49.99 U.S./ $56.99 Canada) • “The Lion King” = Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray 2D + DVD + Digital Copy™ • 2-Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack (for the suggested retail price of $39.99 U.S./$46.99 Canada) • “The Lion King” = Blu-ray 2D + DVD • 8-Disc Trilogy (for the suggested retail price of $100.00 U.S./ $115.00 Canada) • “The Lion King” = Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray 2D + DVD + Digital Copy • “The Lion King 1 ½” = Blu-ray 2D + DVD • “The Lion King II: Simba‟s Pride” = Blu-ray 2D + DVD And the one-disc DVD Edition will be available on November 15. “The Lion King,” first released in 1994, won the Oscar® for Best Original Score (Hans Zimmer) and Best Original Song (Elton John/Tim Rice “Can You Feel the Love Tonight”), earning Golden Globes® in both categories, as well as for Best Motion Picture—Comedy or Musical. The film inspired an immensely popular, Tony Award®-winning Broadway musical, which is currently featured on stages worldwide. It became the seventh longest-running musical in Broadway history in January 2011. Make sure you are following @Elev8official for stories like this and more. Keenen Ivory Wayans Cried: Entertainment Icon Award [VIDEO] Eric Benet Is A Single Dad To Daughter Who Sees Angels In “Trinity Goodheart” [EXCLUSIVE VIDEO]
The summer is quickly coming to a close and schools all over the country will be opening in the weeks ahead. From knowing what you already have to taking advantage of tax holidays, here are 5 simple ways to save on all of your back to school needs: 1. Take inventory . We usually do ourselves more financial harm than good by running out and buying every school supply we can find. If you found them on sale, wonderful. But wouldn’t it be more wonderful to not waste money, no matter how small or insignificant the amount on stuff your kids don’t even need? Before you go anywhere, take inventory of what you already have and of what you may actually need. Many households already have the paper and pens that kids need to start the school year. So check what’s lying around on shelves and in drawers before buying piles more. In addition, check your kids’ closets to figure out what they can still wear and use and what actually does needs to be replaced. In most regions, the weather is still extremely warm until late September. Some summer clothing can be worn with no problem the first several weeks of school. Remember, this isn’t about all the stuff the kids want; it’s about what they need and what you can afford! 2. Make a budget. This will help you stay focused on the back to school shopping list you created after taking stock of what you already own. As you know, most retailers try to jump in on the “Back to School” festivities whether they really cater to students or not. Don’t get side-tracked by gimmicks. Use your inventory list to design a budget and stick to that budget at all costs. If you end up saving even more than you anticipated, then great, you have money left over to go towards saving or maybe even paying off your own student loan debt! Don’t get tricked into spending it on unnecessary items. GET MORE HERE 3 Stress-Less Tips For Working Moms Are Your Kids Bored This Summer?
This morning on my way to work, I had to change my usual route due to a transportation problem beyond my control. A few years ago, if this had happened, I would have freaked out and not known what to do, as I was not used to the issues that can occur in a big city. However, since I’ve become accustomed to plans changing recently, I just started walking in the direction of the office, sure of myself and prepared for whatever situations might arise later . Looking at this blip in my routine more closely, I saw it as a small representation of more significant moments that become catalysts for future changes. Life is an ever-evolving entity and you never know what will happen from one moment to the next. Sometimes, days will go by where nothing new happens and routines becoming solidly intertwined with the time that passes. Every once in a while, though, there are a few days that just change up the entire sequence, turning into a bull in a china shop in terms of directed clarity. Maybe there was a build-up to this emotional catharsis or perhaps you never saw it coming. Either way, what changes the course of your day in growth and evolution are the defining sequences that you ultimately remember, even if you were originally caught off guard and did not understand their significance at the time. How does one deal with major changes, especially when you have little time to process the moment? Calmly approaching new situations with a positive outlook helps keep your emotions in check and your mind open, especially when the lesson is unexpected. Being prepared for the turning points in life, no matter how small, is an important test in anticipation and something you can accomplish with the strength of a seasoned fighter. The more times you get knocked down and have to navigate confusing situations, the more ready you will be when you encounter them again. Every moment is education for future adventures, so always be on the look-out for the learning experiences that put you ahead for looming challenges! Why Is Anticipation So Important? In another vein, you never know when people will surprise you with their support and responses to important things that you tell them. Although you should always be cautious with whom you share things with, if they’re people that really mean something to you and vice versa, you should be able to trust them with your inner-most secrets and fears. Don’t hold back from making changes to your life if you are merely afraid to express yourself honestly. If you keep a high level of optimism and minimal cynicism while telling people something difficult, your life can greatly improve due to your positive attitude and sense of well-being! Family and friends are the rocks of a healthy existence , so keep trusted people close and never compromise your personal ideals. If you have support from the people who love you, nothing can stop you from being yourself! In order to be prepared for the curve-balls and unexpected events that life throws at you, be alert and well-rested, first and foremost. If you’re constantly ready for the moments that could throw off your day, life will make much more sense to you in the long run! Also, since you never know what is meant to occur that could change your life, always keep a healthy attitude and a strong level of optimism. While you shouldn’t be too idealistic about the situations encounter, being ready for anything means having a smile on your face . With your head up and your eyes wide open, you are ready to face the world with open arms. Keep your strong, independent attitude and an exciting life will be lying at your feet! 5 Ways To Make Yourself Stand Out
This morning on my way to work, I had to change my usual route due to a transportation problem beyond my control. A few years ago, if this had happened, I would have freaked out and not known what to do, as I was not used to the issues that can occur in a big city. However, since I’ve become accustomed to plans changing recently, I just started walking in the direction of the office, sure of myself and prepared for whatever situations might arise later . Looking at this blip in my routine more closely, I saw it as a small representation of more significant moments that become catalysts for future changes. Life is an ever-evolving entity and you never know what will happen from one moment to the next. Sometimes, days will go by where nothing new happens and routines becoming solidly intertwined with the time that passes. Every once in a while, though, there are a few days that just change up the entire sequence, turning into a bull in a china shop in terms of directed clarity. Maybe there was a build-up to this emotional catharsis or perhaps you never saw it coming. Either way, what changes the course of your day in growth and evolution are the defining sequences that you ultimately remember, even if you were originally caught off guard and did not understand their significance at the time. How does one deal with major changes, especially when you have little time to process the moment? Calmly approaching new situations with a positive outlook helps keep your emotions in check and your mind open, especially when the lesson is unexpected. Being prepared for the turning points in life, no matter how small, is an important test in anticipation and something you can accomplish with the strength of a seasoned fighter. The more times you get knocked down and have to navigate confusing situations, the more ready you will be when you encounter them again. Every moment is education for future adventures, so always be on the look-out for the learning experiences that put you ahead for looming challenges! Why Is Anticipation So Important? In another vein, you never know when people will surprise you with their support and responses to important things that you tell them. Although you should always be cautious with whom you share things with, if they’re people that really mean something to you and vice versa, you should be able to trust them with your inner-most secrets and fears. Don’t hold back from making changes to your life if you are merely afraid to express yourself honestly. If you keep a high level of optimism and minimal cynicism while telling people something difficult, your life can greatly improve due to your positive attitude and sense of well-being! Family and friends are the rocks of a healthy existence , so keep trusted people close and never compromise your personal ideals. If you have support from the people who love you, nothing can stop you from being yourself! In order to be prepared for the curve-balls and unexpected events that life throws at you, be alert and well-rested, first and foremost. If you’re constantly ready for the moments that could throw off your day, life will make much more sense to you in the long run! Also, since you never know what is meant to occur that could change your life, always keep a healthy attitude and a strong level of optimism. While you shouldn’t be too idealistic about the situations encounter, being ready for anything means having a smile on your face . With your head up and your eyes wide open, you are ready to face the world with open arms. Keep your strong, independent attitude and an exciting life will be lying at your feet! 5 Ways To Make Yourself Stand Out
