International Day For the Elimination of Violence Against Women: November 25, 2020

I never thought I'd need to be protected from someone I loved.

Growing up, it is every little girl's dream to live happily ever after with the Prince of her dreams.

Unfortunately, reality and life can turn out a whole lot different that what you envision your life to be if you make one slightly wrong turn or decision.

Fortunately for me, I was able to finally get away from my abusive ex. It took me five years and a lot of depression, hurt and fear -- until I came to the point that I would rather die than to live like that anymore -- to be able to finally pull it off.

We will never be able to eliminate all violence against women. But, we can make life hard for those who dare to inflict the pain that some women have to endure -- emotionally, mentally, financially and physically...and spiritually.

You should suspect someone is being abused if:

Their Partner Insults Them In Front of Other People.

They Seem Constantly Worried About Angering Their Partner.

They Make Excuses for Their Partner’s Behavior. Some victims often make excuses or blame themselves for their partner’s behavior.

Their Partner Is Extremely Jealous or Possessive. A partner asking for your social media password can be a sign of possessiveness.

They Have Unexplained Marks or Injuries. Victims often lie about injuries or marks because they feel ashamed and embarrassed.

They’ve Stopped Spending Time With Friends and Family.

They Are Depressed or Anxious, or Display Changes in Personality.

Read 9 Ways to Help a Victim of Domestic Violence

Read the UN official commemoration of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

Read also:

'Invisible pandemic': Domestic violence worsens amid COVID-19 worldwide, International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

Better access to justice needed for victims of gender-based violence

National Pharmacy Week (October 18-24, 2020)

Pago Pago - October 23, 2020 - (The Stuff Gazette) -- Wednesday, Congresswoman Aumua Amata highlighted National Pharmacy Week, which recognizes the contributions of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians.

“Thank you to our pharmacists and pharmacy technicians for all you do!” said Aumua Amata. “The pandemic, along with all the changes it brought to our economy and activities, has had a way of showing us how truly valuable many jobs are that might have been too easily taken for granted. When anyone is ill, after seeing a doctor, pharmacists are often the last health professional we see as we go fill our prescriptions, and they have a key role in medical care.”

Pharmacy Week is celebrated in October, the third full week of the month, to acknowledge the contributions that pharmacists and technicians make to the entire health care effort, including patient care in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and any other healthcare settings.

“We rely on pharmacies for correct medicines,” Amata concluded. “Pharmacies are often resources for such health services as blood pressure checks, flu shots, and important reminders of important details in how and when to take medications.”

Five Keys to Stop Bad Arguments

Northbrook, IL - October 5, 2020 - (The Stuff Gazette) -- Americans are witnessing one of the deepest political and cultural divides in our nation's history. Compounded by the worst health crisis in a century and a reckoning on racial justice, our collective future depends on Americans' ability to come together. That doesn't mean we should stop arguing, though, according to leaders at The Better Arguments Project.

It means we should argue better.

"The word 'argument' shouldn't be a bad word," says Eric Liu, director of the Aspen Institute and former White House speechwriter and deputy domestic policy adviser. "We believe arguments can bring people together. Our goal isn't to get everyone to agree, it's to help people learn more about our differences, and to challenge each other to think about positions other than our own." Liu's position is built into the framework of the Better Arguments Project – a civic initiative founded by The Aspen Institute, The Allstate Corporation and Facing History and Ourselves. During this time of rigid polarization, the group is making free tools and resources available for anyone looking to bring people together in almost any situation, from the virtual office to schools, dinner tables, and even social media.

"People are afraid they'll be driven further apart from their neighbors, coworkers and even their loved ones because of their beliefs or values," says Stacy Sharpe, senior vice president of Allstate Corporate Brand. "We should never be afraid to stand up and argue for what we believe in, but we need to do it in a better way. The only thing we should fear is the status quo, where unhealthy arguments will continue destroying civility, decency and the chance to thrive."

The Better Arguments Project resources are based on five principles to achieve civil conversations:

Take winning off the table

Prioritize relationships and listen passionately

Pay attention to context

Embrace vulnerability

Make room to transform

The Better Arguments framework will be featured as a key theme at the Aspen Ideas Mini Fest Oct. 20-21. The virtual event will bring together top minds to discuss some of the most important issues of our time.

35 Years of Farm Aid Still Going Strong

Cambridge, MA - September 27, 2020 - (The Stuff Gazette) -- Farm Aid marked its 35th anniversary today with Farm Aid 2020 On the Road, a three-and-a-half-hour, virtual at-home festival featuring 22 artists who helped showcase the critical need for family farmers, the food they produce and their care for soil and water amid a time of unprecedented upheaval in our country, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and necessary calls for racial justice.

Since its start in 1985, Farm Aid has connected to farmers through its hotline and farm organization partners and deployed funds and resources to help farm families address multiple challenges. The 2020 festival comes amid extreme stress in the farm economy, which has been exacerbated by the pandemic. As a result, thousands of family farmers are at risk of going under. Farm Aid President and Founder Willie Nelson said there is now even more urgency to support local farm communities and Farm Aid.

"The pandemic has shown everyone that our corporate-dominated food system is fragile and unjust," said Nelson. "Now more than ever, it should be clear to all of us how much we need family farmers and why it's so important to listen to them and support efforts — at home, locally and nationally — to keep them on the land."

Nelson joined a Farm Aid 2020 On the Road lineup that also featured Farm Aid board members John Mellencamp, Neil Young and Dave Matthews, along with Black Pumas, Bonnie Raitt and Boz Scaggs, Brandi Carlile, Chris Stapleton, Edie Brickell with Charlie Sexton, Jack Johnson, Jamey Johnson, Jon Batiste, Kelsey Waldon, Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real, Margo Price, Nathaniel Rateliff, Norah Jones, Particle Kid, The Record Company, Valerie June and The War And Treaty.

During the virtual festival, Rhonda Perry and Roger Allison, farmers and founders of the Missouri Rural Crisis Center, discussed how the COVID-19 pandemic has revealed a vulnerable dominant food system that works intentionally to maximize corporate power and profits, while putting the health of soil and water, farmers and workers, communities and people at risk.

The virtual festival also showcased the diversity and strength of family farmers, demonstrating that a thriving movement — especially of young farmers; Black, brown and Indigenous farmers; and women farmers — is leading the way for conversations, strategies and change to create a more democratic farm and food system. Louisiana farmers Angie and June Provost discussed their experience with racial discrimination in lending that ultimately resulted in the loss of their farm. Many other farmers from across the country were featured in video montages that showcased the reasons farmers do the work they do, the challenges they face, and their hopes for the future of agriculture.

The goal of the virtual festival is to raise critical funds for and awareness of the organization's mission, which it typically does through ticket sales to the annual in-person music and food festival. Farm Aid accepts donations at www.farmaid.org/donate. Farm Aid 2020 merchandise, which also supports the organization's year-round work, may be purchased by clicking HERE.

Additionally, Farm Aid's online silent auction launched today with exclusive trips and artist-signed memorabilia, including several "from the vault" guitars and prints from previous Farm Aid festivals. The online auction can be accessed at farmaid.org/auction until Friday, Oct. 9. All proceeds will benefit the organization. Sponsors of this year's event include ButcherBox, Farmer Focus, Pete and Gerry's Organic Eggs, and Horizon Organic. Stories of sponsors' farmer suppliers were also featured in the festival. Farm Aid 2020 On the Road aired on FarmAid.org, YouTube, and AXS TV, as well as on SiriusXM's Willie's Roadhouse (channel 59) and Dave Matthews Band Radio (channel 30). The program will be available for viewing in its entirety for the next five days on farmaid.org. Farm Aid's mission is to build a vibrant, family farm-centered system of agriculture in America. Farm Aid artists and board members Willie Nelson, Neil Young, John Mellencamp and Dave Matthews host an annual festival to raise funds to support Farm Aid's work with family farmers and to inspire people to choose family farm food. For more than 30 years, Farm Aid, with the support of the artists who contribute their performances each year, has raised nearly $60 million to support programs that help farmers thrive, expand the reach of the Good Food Movement, take action to change the dominant system of industrial agriculture and promote food from family farms.

Velázquez, Chabot Introduce Resolution In Honor of National Small Business Week

Washington D.C. - September 23, 2020 - (The Stuff Gazette) -- House Small Business Committee Chairwoman Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) and Ranking Member Steve Chabot (R-OH) introduced a resolution to recognize September 22nd to September 24th as National Small Business Week. The week has been observed annually since 1963 to commemorate the contributions of small business owners and their more than 60 million employees.

“National Small Business Week is a celebration of America’s 30 million-plus small businesses and all that they do for our communities and economies,” said Chairwoman Velázquez. “As we celebrate this year, small firms across the country face unprecedented challenges, but their entrepreneurial spirit remains as strong as ever. As Chairwoman of this Committee, I am proud to fight for these businesses daily and work to ensure that they have the resources needed to recover. With this resolution, I join Ranking Member Chabot and many of my colleagues in acknowledging the achievements of American small businesses and the impact that they have every day.”

“While this year’s National Small Business Week looks a bit different than years past, what hasn’t changed is our commitment to America’s entrepreneurs. From the corner deli to the high-tech startup, small businesses drive innovation and play an outsized role in our economy,” said Ranking Member Chabot. “This year, even as they faced monumental challenges, they have demonstrated incredible resilience and ingenuity. I am proud to stand with Chairwoman Velázquez to honor and recognize their contributions to our nation.”

Congresswoman Veronica Escobar Statement in Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month

Washington, DC - September 17, 2020 - (The Stuff Gazette) -- Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) issued the following statement in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month:

“During this month, people across our country come together to celebrate the incredible contributions and voices of Latinos that enrich our American culture and society.

“Unfortunately, this month of celebration and pride comes at a time when Latinos are being disproportionately affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis. Latinos are on the frontlines of the pandemic, providing the food on our tables, cleaning our hospitals, teaching our children, and saving lives as health care workers and first responders. Yet, Latinos are three times as likely to become infected with COVID-19 and nearly twice as likely to die from the virus than any other group.

“The pandemic has exposed life-and-death inequities faced by Latinos in our nation, including disparities in income, lack of access to comprehensive health care, and a broken immigration system.

“This month, as we uplift and celebrate the culture, contributions, and resilience of our Latino communities in El Paso and across the country, we must address the structural economic and health inequities exposed by this pandemic.”

Celebrate Better Breakfast Month with 5 Tips from a Pro

Houston, TX - September 17, 2020 - (The Stuff Gazette) -- We've all heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but we get it, mornings are tough. Diet buzz words like intermittent fasting, Whole 30, and keto don't make choosing what to eat in the morning any easier. According to Denise Hernandez, M.S. in Nutrition, B.S. in Biological and Physical Sciences, R.D., L.D., starting your day with proper nutrition will fuel your body and help keep you energized. Studies from The American Dietetic Association have also shown that people who eat breakfast have lower obesity rates and higher intakes of micro-nutrients and fiber.

"The Houstonian Club emphasizes the importance of fitness goals and proper nutrition for optimal health. It might be tempting to sleep in, but eating a healthy breakfast is an easy way to keep your body feeling good throughout the day," says Hernandez.

Better Breakfast Tips
1. Protein - Start your day with protein to maximize your body's ability to use muscle building and repair efficiently. Aim for 15-30 grams of protein-based on your daily calorie intake. A high protein, nutrient-rich breakfast is a game-changer and will prevent mid-morning sugar crashes.
2. Variety - Balance your breakfast with a mix of protein, fats, fiber, and good sources of carbohydrates like oatmeal and whole grains.
3. Fiber - Add chia and flaxseed to your breakfast. Not only are chia and flaxseeds a good source of protein, but they are also high in fiber and Omega-3 fatty acids.
4. Eggs – The quintessential breakfast ingredient boasts 6 grams of high-quality protein and all nine essential amino acids. The nutrients don't stop there - they are also rich in choline and lutein, which are crucial for brain health.
5. Meal Prep – Make your mornings easier by meal prepping ahead of time. Bake your eggs and bacon in the oven and store them in the fridge for an easy breakfast option. Healthy pancakes are also an easy option to make ahead and freeze or keep in the refrigerator (see below for recipe).

International Missing Children's Day (May 25) brings focus to cases of missing children

Calgary, Alberta - May 25, 2020 -- (The Stuff Gazette) -- May 25 is International Missing Children Day, a day that is marked around the world to remember children who are missing and those who have been found.

The Missing Children Society of Canada (MCSC), uses this day to draw attention to cases of missing children across Canada, with a solemn reminder that children everywhere deserve to feel safe each day of the year.

This year especially, the Coronavirus pandemic is challenging our communities in ways we could never have imagined, and it's leaving vulnerable children and youth at greater risk than ever before.

"Our children deserve safe communities where they can grow and thrive. Today reminds us that we must work together to find our missing children and protect them from future harm," said Amanda Pick, CEO of the Missing Children Society of Canada.

MCSC has been engaged in the search for missing children and supporting their families since 1986. The organization has evolved from one distributing posters to find a missing child, to one embracing the latest technology to help police in the search for that child.

Last year, MCSC released the web app MCSC rescu, which is updated continually by police from across Canada with critical cases of missing children. It allows members of the public to access case information based on geography and to submit tips directly to police.

It was 1983 when U.S. President Ronald Reagan proclaimed May 25 as National Missing Children's Day. In 2001, May 25 was officially recognized as International Missing Children's Day, thanks to a joint effort between the International Centre for Missing & Exploited Children, Missing Children Europe and the European Commission. The forget-me-not flower was recognized as its emblem.

The Missing Children Society of Canada urges everyone to join in the search for missing children. Access MCSC rescu to see cases of missing children and please leave a tip for police if you know something. Sign up to receive SMS messages about missing children in your area to help keep children in your community safe.

Creative Healing for Health Care Professionals in The Age of COVID-19

San Diego, CA - May 25, 2020 - (The Stuff Gazette) -- The National Organization for Arts in Health (NOAH) launched a GoFundMe campaign to help bring free expressive art programs to health care workers struggling with anxiety and other symptoms that could lead to burnout in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. The program, called "Arts for Resilience in Clinicians" (ARC), will feature artists and art therapists leading interactive projects through videos and virtual sessions.

Burnout in clinicians has long been a topic of concern in the health care industry, with studies showing pre-COVID-19 burnout rates ranging as high as 44-54% in physicians, with similar rates for nurses. alone. Many health care experts are warning these numbers will increase as a result of the pandemic.

"We're starting to see some impact now, but the consensus is that burnout rates and the numbers of people leaving clinical work are about to jump beyond anything we've ever experienced," says Dr. Alan Siegel, Family Physician at Contra Costa Health Services, NOAH board member, and ARC project Co-Director. Siegel says a potential crisis can be avoided, but the time to act is now. "Offering enhanced, immediate options to help health care workers cope with anxiety and avoid burnout is critical. Health care workers need to be healthy in both mind and body so they can continue doing their work effectively and safely. That's why NOAH created this program."

While many health care facilities offer well-being programs for staff, expressive art programs are considered to be among the most effective when it comes to coping with symptoms of burnout and anxiety. For more than 30 years, studies have shown the benefits of incorporating the arts into wellness and mental health programs. In 2019, the World Health Organization published a scoping review that provided significant evidence of the role of the arts on improving health and well-being.

The ARC program will feature interactive art sessions offered through videos and virtual rooms. Each session will allow health care workers to engage in the creative process rather than passively watching a performance and can be accessed online or through an app. Sessions on writing, poetry, dance/movement, drama, music, painting and other forms of expressive arts will be available. The pilot program will begin this June in six facilities, with an eye to expanding nationwide as financial support grows.

According to ARC project curator and co-director Cynthia Perlis, founder and former director, UCSF Art for Recovery, the programs are intended to offer a release from the overwhelming emotions health care workers are experiencing. "The programs are developed by professional artists and art therapists who have experience in helping others alleviate anxiety and avoid the symptoms of burnout," she says.

The ARC project's GoFundMe page was established to help raise funds to bring the program to life. "We hope to harness the enormous goodwill the public is showing health care workers so we can offer caregivers healthy, effective options for relief," says Perlis.

In addition to financial donations, organizers encourage the public to share creative forms of appreciation through social media. "The explosion of creative expression at this time has been extraordinary," says Perlis. "By going to Facebook or Twitter and posting their thanks using #healingourhealers, the public can share their gratitude and show their ongoing support."

The National Organization for Arts in Health (NOAH) is a 501(c)3 organization established to unite, advance and serve the field of arts in health. Through its programs, initiatives and transformational leadership, NOAH's goals are to demonstrate the valuable role of the arts in enhancing the healing process, to integrate the arts in the planning, design and operations of health care facilities and programs, and to advocate for arts programming within all areas of health care including treatment, education, prevention, and public health and well-being. For more information on the ARC project, please CLICK HERE.

Public Service Recognition Week (May 3-9, 2020)

by Laborers’ International Union of North America

Washington, D.C. - May 6, 2020 - (The Stuff Gazette) -- LIUNA General President Terry O’Sullivan made the following statement on this year’s Public Service Recognition Week (PSRW), May 3-9.

As we mark Public Service Recognition Week, we should both honor and support those who serve our nation by providing vital services for federal, state, and local governments. LIUNA is proud to represent more than 50,000 public sector workers.

As we confront the pandemic, many public workers are on the frontlines facing unique and unprecedented risks. LIUNA thanks you for your courage and for putting the needs of others before your own. Every single American owes you an enormous debt of gratitude for your service and your sacrifice.

We must also continue to be vigilant in working together to protect the health and safety as well as wages and benefits of those in the public sector for all that they do to keep us safe and make all of our lives better.

LIUNA stands shoulder to shoulder in solidarity with public sector workers during Public Service Recognition Week and every day of the year.

May is Lupus Awareness Month

Washington, D.C. - May 2, 2020 -- (The Stuff Gazette) -- Lupus is a more pervasive and severe disease than many realize, as a number of its symptoms can be invisible. This May for Lupus Awareness Month, the Lupus Foundation of America is urging the public to join the nationwide effort to Make Lupus Visible, and raise awareness and funds for this brutal disease.

Many of the debilitating symptoms and impacts of lupus can't be seen, and can cause those living with the disease to feel isolated and misunderstood. Invisible symptoms of lupus include:

Organ involvement, affecting areas like the heart, lungs, kidneys or brain, occurring in approximately half of people with lupus;

Joint and muscle pain, causing weakness and loss of strength, which impacts 90% of people with lupus at some point during their illness;

Extreme fatigue, which can be debilitating, impacts as many as 80% of people with lupus;

Loss of income –Two out of three people with lupus report a complete or partial loss of income because of complications with the disease;

Feeling symptoms of anxiety (90%) and depression (85%) due to the impact of lupus.

"Lupus impacts every part of a person's life, whether you can visibly see the effects or not," said Stevan W. Gibson, president and CEO, Lupus Foundation of America. "The Lupus Foundation of America is on a mission to end the brutal impact of lupus, and raising awareness of the devastation that this disease can cause is incredibly important. We urge everybody to Make Lupus Visible this May by wearing purple, sharing facts about lupus, and raising funds for the critical research and support programs that our community relies on."

Lupus affects an estimated 1.5 million people in the U.S. alone, and awareness of how devastating this disease is remains low and misunderstood. That's why raising awareness, funds and making lupus visible is so crucial this May for Lupus Awareness Month. Even though many of us are physically apart due to the coronavirus, there are still several ways we can come together to Make Lupus Visible. People with lupus, friends and family members can participate from home or virtually by:

Sharing the facts about lupus, its symptoms and impact with social media posts, fliers and infographics available in our awareness toolkit, and by sharing our new "What is Lupus?" video that highlights the difficulty to diagnose, treat and manage this complex, unpredictable and cruel disease.

Starting a virtual fundraiser or Facebook fundraiser, and inviting friends and family to support the fight against lupus no matter where they live.

Celebrating Put on Purple Day on May 15 by wearing purple, making a donation, and sharing on social media and with friends and family why you are wearing purple to make lupus visible.

For more information on Lupus Awareness Month and how to get involved, visit www.lupus.org/lupus-awareness-month.


Lupus, My Doctor and Me: A Sacred Dialogue

May is Bladder Cancer Awareness Month

Baltimore, MD - May 1, 2020 -- (The Stuff Gazette) -- Bladder cancer is the 10th most common cancer worldwide and the sixth most common cancer in the United States. May is Bladder Cancer Awareness Month, a time of year when the Urology Care Foundation, the world's leading nonprofit urological health foundation, raises awareness about bladder cancer and its prevalence around the globe, and encourages the public to make direct, positive and healthy changes in their lives to keep their bladders healthy.

"Approximately 550,00 cases of bladder cancer are diagnosed each year around the world, including nearly 81,000 in the United States," said Harris M. Nagler, MD, President of the Urology Care Foundation. "It is important for men and women to understand the signs, symptoms and their risk of developing bladder cancer and to ensure they're getting reliable health education and information from sources like the Urology Care Foundation."

Risk factors for bladder cancer include gender, age, race and genetics. About one in 100 men and one in 400 women will be diagnosed with bladder cancer, globally. Bladder cancer is the sixth most common cancer in men and 17th most common cancer in women. Cigarette smoking is the number one risk factor for bladder cancer.

Visit the Urology Care Foundation's Twitter, Facebook and Instagram platforms for free bladder cancer resources, including fact sheets, podcasts, videos and more.

The Foundation is the world's leading nonprofit urological health foundation and aims to support and improve the prevention, detection and treatment of urologic diseases through research and education. Visit www.UrologyHealth.org to learn more about bladder cancer and order or download free patient education materials in English or Spanish.

National Astronaut Day (May 5, 2020)

New York, NY - April 29, 2020 - (The Stuff Gazette) -- uniphi space agency, a division of uniphi good LLC, is proud to announce the fifth annual National Astronaut Day, featuring an incredible line-up of Astronauts, musicians and entertainers, all participating in virtual, free, family-friendly events, activities and performances on Tuesday, May 5th, 2020. This year, in addition to raising funds and awareness for seven charities, the campaign will include a social media campaign to thank the "Frontline Superstars" who have been working tirelessly during the global pandemic, a collaboration with Giving Tuesday Now, and specifically with Giving Tuesday Kids (GTKids), who will be actively participating in different Astronaut activities throughout the day.

In keeping with the tradition of other Astronaut and Space related celebrations, May 5th was selected for this significant date in history in 1961 when Astronaut Alan Bartlett Shepard Jr. became the First American in Space, aboard the Freedom 7 Space capsule. The brief suborbital flight, which lasted approximately 15 minutes and reached a height of 116 miles into the atmosphere, was a milestone achievement. This trailblazing example of heroic bravery and adventurous spirit is this essence of what National Astronaut Day is all about.

National Astronaut Day is honored to present an incredible virtual line up of Astronauts, musicians, entertainers, charity partners and collaborators, all of whom have generously donated their time, not only to celebrate and honor Astronauts, but to provide comfort and levity for all at this unusual and challenging time. Their gracious support, and the tireless dedication given by those on the frontline, is a true inspiration and a reminder that together we rise by lifting others.

May 5th will feature a wide range of not to be missed online events that include "Virtual Astronaut" talks, Q&A's, book readings & discussions, motivational videos, live music performances, Astronaut inspired music video & playlist premieres, model rocket launches, activities and more. Some events require pre-registration so please make sure to see the full schedule of events at www.NationalAstronautDay.com.

Scheduled participants include (and are subject to change);

Astronauts:
Clayton "Astro Clay" Anderson, Greg Chamitoff, Leroy Chiao, Cady Coleman, Frank Culbertson, Greg H. Johnson, Wendy Lawrence, Pamela Melroy, Leland Melvin, Dottie Metcalf-Lindenburger, Barbara Morgan, John "Danny" Olivas, Garrett Reisman, Steve Smith, Nicole Stott, Soyeon Yi.

Musicians:
FolkUke, Michael Glabicki with Dirk Miller, Emerson Hart, Emmanuel Jal, Toby Lightman, Scotty Kilwein, Particle Kid, Jeff Russo, TDIII and more TBD.

Charities:
Challenger Center, Gua Africa, Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, Higher Orbits, Reading Is Fundamental, Space Center Houston, Space For Everyone Foundation

Collaborators:
Club for the Future founded by Blue Origin, Cosmic Crisp®, DreamUp, Estes Rockets, Giving Tuesday Kids, Giving Tuesday Now, Higher Orbits, Janet's Planet, National Day Calendar, One Orbit, Space Center Houston, Topsify, uniphi goods

The 2020 National Astronaut Day campaign includes many ways to participate including:
- Join the online Astronaut Talks, Q&As & Activities
- Watch & Listen to Live Online Music Performances from World-Class Musicians
- Engage on Social Media with the Augmented Reality (AR) Interactive Astronaut Face Filters
- Enter the Student Art Contest
- Thank the "Frontline Superstars" (on social media or print signs)
- Explore & learn something new about your own Universe, set a Mission and go on an adventure
- Print the National Astronaut Day Posters
- Read a book about Astronauts or Space
- Participate in the "at home" Activities on the National Astronaut Day website
- Donate to one of our charity partners

Updates will be posted on the National Astronaut Day website at www.NationalAstronautDay.com.

National Pretzel Day (April 26)

Washington, D.C. - April 25, 2020 - (The Ponder News) -- Auntie Anne's®, the world's largest hand-rolled soft pretzel franchise, is celebrating National Pretzel Day on April 26 by giving away 25,000 free pretzels to frontline workers. In addition to nominating a frontline worker to receive a pretzel-pick-me-up, fans can claim their own National Pretzel Day offer when they download the Pretzel Perks app.

Pretzel fans can nominate their friends and family members who are frontline employees beginning Friday, April 24 through Sunday, April 26 at AuntieAnnes.com/Nominate. Auntie Anne's will randomly select 25,000* of these frontline workers to receive a free Original or Cinnamon Sugar pretzel offer, as a way to show appreciation to all those keeping us safe and healthy during this time.

Additionally, all Pretzel Perks app users will receive an offer for a free Original or Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel with the purchase of any pretzel item, valid beginning Friday, April 24. To receive this exclusive National Pretzel Day offer, pretzel lovers should download and sign up for the Pretzel Perks app by Sunday, April 26. The offer has an extended expiration to allow fans plenty of time to redeem it.

"At Auntie Anne's, National Pretzel Day is our favorite day of the year," said Heather Neary, president of Auntie Anne's. "We wanted to take this opportunity to share a little pretzel love not only with our fans, but also with all the frontline workers doing their best to keep us safe and healthy. From healthcare professionals and first responders, to restaurant employees and warehouse workers, we wanted to recognize their hard work and say thank you."

To find an Auntie Anne's location, visit auntieannes.com/locations. Auntie Anne's hand-rolled soft pretzels come freshly baked in a variety of flavors including Original, Cinnamon Sugar, Sweet Almond, Sour Cream & Onion, Roasted Garlic & Parmesan, and Pepperoni. For guests on-the-go, Auntie Anne's offers portable Pretzel Nuggets, Pretzel Dogs, and Mini Pretzel Dogs. With seven dipping sauces and a variety of drinks to accompany each pretzel, Auntie Anne's is bound to hit the spot any time, any day.

Earth Day (April 22, 2020)

A message from U.S. Representative Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL, 20th)

“Today, we observe the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. Since we marked the first Earth Day, so many activists have fought dearly to honor our responsibility to protect our planet. Much work remains and our incremental progress has been just that—incremental and gradual—despite the increasingly clear signs and devastation of environmental degradation. Too many communities remain exposed to harmful chemicals, and the climate crisis is causing rising sea levels, ocean acidification, and more extreme and devastating weather events. The link between the importance of clean air, clean water, and public health is more clear now than ever before. Indeed, many of the factors polluting our air and driving climate change, such as carbon emissions, also worsen the risk of respiratory diseases, like the COVID-19 pandemic our nation is currently battling.

“House Democrats have taken action to deliver science-based leadership, which comes in stark contrast to the Trump Administration’s regulatory rollbacks and inaction. Last year, House Democrats passed H.R.9, the Climate Action Now Act, to reaffirm the Global Paris Climate Agreement after the Trump Administration’s misguided announcement to withdraw the United States from this agreement.

“Climate change is a global crisis that requires a global response. Being a Floridian means cherishing our land, water, and community. Today, we celebrate our environment and reaffirm our shared responsibility to act now to preserve our planet for our children and future generations.”

International Mine Awareness Day (April 4)

by United Nations

New York, NY - April 2, 2020 - (The Stuff Gazette) -- Decades ago, millions of landmines were buried in countries across the world. From Cambodia to Mozambique, in Angola and Afghanistan, thousands of lives were lost, with others altered forever because of one unlucky step. The outcry by civil society in the early 1990s drove the multilateral system to take a stand against the use of anti-personnel mines, leading to the 1997 Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction — known as the Mine Ban Convention — and other crucial frameworks. Today, many countries have declared themselves mine free, with others well on the way.

Now, the world is facing a daunting pandemic. The dangers posed by COVID-19 are forcing every country, and every person, to take steps that would have seemed unimaginable mere weeks ago. It is for this reason that this year’s observance of the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action has been scaled back. The football tournaments, due to take place on land cleared of explosive ordnance, have been cancelled. The events aimed at bringing together the mine action community will take place virtually, if at all.

Yet, even amid an unprecedented crisis, we cannot let this day go unnoticed, nor can we allow the rights of persons with disabilities to go unacknowledged. Mines, explosive remnants of war and improvised explosive devices threaten some of the most vulnerable people in society — women traveling to markets, farmers herding cattle, humanitarian workers trying to reach those most in need.

Moreover, the achievements of the mine action community show that, in working together, we can reach milestones once seen as impossible — a timely message for our efforts today to suppress transmission of the pandemic.

Let us remember the people living under the shadow of explosive ordnance, from Syria to Mali and elsewhere. As many people around the world work safely from home, they will remain exposed and vulnerable. And, when the world emerges from today’s crisis, they will continue to need our support.

Today is National Doctor's Day!

Today, more than ever before, we would like to Thank all the Doctors out there who are putting themselves at risk to care for us.

Happy National Doctor's Day! We hope you have a GREAT one!



We are eternally grateful for all doctors and wish to honor and recognize them on this National #DoctorsDay. Thank you for the outstanding sacrifices you make to care for the people of this country. Your work is profoundly important, today and always. -- Curt T. Hill, Indiana Attorney General

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Today, an illness called COVID-19 is making itself known around the world. It is imperative that we make sure our bodies are healthy and strong enough to fight it, should you ever get caught with it.

New York City, South Korea and China have all used Vitamin C drips to treat patients who were hospitalized due to the destructive symptoms the virus brings with it. Shouldn't you act ahead of time to save you the trouble of being hospitalized?

It's as simple as 1000-2000 mg of Vitamin C every day!

Beware of Scammers during the Coronavirus Crisis

Arlington, VA - March 20, 2020 - (The Stuff Gazette) -- The coronavirus crisis is forcing people to distance themselves from others, work remotely, and spend time indoors and online. While social distancing is a good health practice to reduce the spread of the coronavirus, it may be helping scammers.

Research from the Better Business Bureau, the FINRA Investor Education Foundation, and the Stanford Center on Longevity found that people are more likely to lose money to a scam when they are socially or physically isolated from others, if they are actively engaging online, and if they are financially vulnerable (BBB.org/ExposedtoScams).

"According to our research, social isolation is a key risk factor for susceptibility to scams, as is financial vulnerability," said Melissa Lanning Trumpower, executive director of the BBB Institute for Marketplace Trust, BBB's foundation that conducted the research. "Add increased time spent online and coronavirus creates the 'perfect storm' for scammers, because all three of these factors have increased dramatically."

As bricks-and-mortar businesses close or curtail services and the financial markets experience a high level of volatility, many consumers are left to wonder if they will have a job or an immediate way to provide for their loved ones. As people turn to the Internet seeking new or temporary employment, they are also at increased risk of employment scams. BBB research deemed employment scams the riskiest scams of 2019, making up 9.3 percent of all scams reported and a median dollar loss of $1,500.

Despite these factors, there are steps everyone can take to protect themselves and their family from losing money and compromising personal information.

1. Don't be afraid to contact a friend, or a company or organization you trust for advice. Isolation is a risk factor for scams. Feelings of loneliness were associated with being more likely to engage with and lose money to scammers. This was especially true when the individual felt he or she lacked companionship and was isolated from loved ones, according to Exposed to Scams: What Separates Victims from Non-victims.
Fact: Scammers will try to isolate their victims.

2. Before clicking a link or sharing personal information online, stop, pause, and research the company or person. People are more likely to lose money to scams perpetrated online. According to the 2019 BBB Scam Tracker Risk Report, consumers who are approached online (email, website, social media, internet messaging, and online classifieds) are significantly more likely to report losing money.
Fact: A staggering 81.2 percent of consumers lost money to online purchase scams in 2019.

3. Beware of job offers that sound too good to be true. Employment scams were the No. 1 riskiest two years in a row, according to the 2019 BBB Scam Tracker Risk Report. As traditional jobs are cut and workers begin to seek new roles or remote opportunities to fill the void, they must be wary of job offers that sound too good to be true. Read BBB's tips for avoiding employment scams.
Fact: Scammers prey on jobseekers, particularly those seeking remote jobs.

4. Learn about scammer tactics to help avoid falling prey to scams and be wary of any offer to "get ahead" that seem too good to be true. Those who are financially vulnerable are more susceptible to scams.

Individuals under financial strain and those with lower levels of financial literacy may be more susceptible to scammers, according to the Exposed to Scams report. Specific risk-factors include:

Household income of $50,000 per year and below.

Spending more per month than one's earnings, not saving money, and having significant amounts of debt.

Feeling compelled to "catch up" or "get ahead" financially.

Fact: According to the Exposed to Scams report, those who heard about the scam before they were targeted were significantly less likely to lose money (9 percent vs 34 percent).


For more consumer information: BBB.org/coronavirus.
For more business information: BBB.org/smallbusiness.
To report a scam: BBB.org/scamtracker.
To report price gauging: BBB.org/adtruth.

5 Financial Steps You Can Take To Prepare For Coronavirus

Many Americans are being financially affected by the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. As businesses close their doors to keep their customers and employees safe, thousands—if not millions—are facing several weeks of pay disruption and infrastructure shake up.

In response to the national emergency, consumers are feeling financially insecure and wondering what it means for their wallet.

What can you do to be financially responsible and vigilant during this time?

Credit Union National Association (CUNA) released five steps consumers should take to exercise financial caution in the face of a global pandemic:

Contact Your Financial Institution
Credit unions from coast to coast are adjusting their operations to help stem the spread of coronavirus and protect members and employees. Make sure you're up to date on the latest information on lobby closures, hours of operation, and drive-thru services and ATM access by contacting or visiting the website of your financial institution.

Protect Your Data
Be vigilant about protecting your digital identity and personal data. If your credit union reaches out, they won't ask for confidential information such as your name, password, personal identification number (PIN) or other account information. A recent report from NBC News notes that criminals are using COVID-19 as a basis for email attacks to snag personal information, steal money and infect computers with malware.

Utilize Online and Mobile Services
You can easily deposit a check using your mobile device or quickly and securely send money to others with digital payments. Using credit or debit cards for payments is especially important now when we all are being asked to practice social distancing. You can still meet most of your obligations without leaving your home, thanks to your credit union.

Research Local Financial Support
From Miami to Seattle, credit unions are extending low- and no-interest loans, offering fee-free loan deferrals, and finding other individualized solutions that help ensure those facing financial disruptions due to COVID-19 can keep the lights on, keep food on the table, and maintain a secure financial future once the country makes it through this public health emergency.

Remember: Your Money is Safest in a Credit Union
There are a lot of things to worry about these days, but the safety of your money in your credit union account aren't one of them. Your money is safer in your insured credit union than it is in your pockets or under your mattress. There is no risk to keeping money in your credit union account, but there are countless risks to holding cash, as pointed out in this Wall Street Journal piece.

Coronavirus

Coronavirus precautions include:

Washing your hands for at least 20 seconds and frequently

Covering your cough or sneeze with your arm

Avoiding touching your face

Routinely clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces

Avoiding close contact with others

And staying home if you are sick

If you are sick, Click HERE to find out what to do!

March is National Nutrition Month

New York, NY - February 19, 2020 - (The Stuff Gazette) -- Urban School Food Alliance (the Alliance), a coalition of the largest urban school districts in the United States serving 3.6 million students daily, will celebrate National Nutrition Month and the importance of healthy eating with a variety of activities in March.

"Providing healthy, appealing food in school cafeterias across this country is at the core of the Urban School Food Alliance and we want to celebrate the difference it makes in the lives of the young people we serve," said Dr. Katie Wilson, executive director of the Alliance. "Studies show that when students have access to nutritious meals, they excel in school."

Throughout National Nutrition Month, Alliance districts will highlight seasonal ingredients during breakfast and lunch, and feature new healthy and delicious menu items.

National School Breakfast Week, from March 2-6, is included during National Nutrition Month to highlight the importance of school breakfast. The group will adopt the School Nutrition Association theme of "School Breakfast: Out of this World." Food service directors will serve breakfast items with whole grains, lean protein, low-fat dairy, and fresh fruits and vegetables.

To cap off the festivities, on March 31, Alliance districts will celebrate Urban School Food Alliance Day by serving the same freshly prepared meal in cafeterias across the country. The menu will consist of roasted chicken, roasted vegetables, macaroni and cheese, fresh seasonal salads and fruits, warm dinner roll and low-fat milk.

"Serving the same lunch menu on Urban School Food Alliance Day is a chance for all of our 12 districts to show our solidarity when it comes to serving healthy meals," said Michael Rosenberger, chairman of the Alliance and executive director of Food and Child Nutrition Services at Dallas Independent School District. "We provide every child, high-quality, fresh and healthy meals, not only on Urban School Food Alliance Day, but every school day."

Nutrition celebrations have helped raise awareness for healthy meals served in school cafeterias, and the abundant access to local fresh fruits and vegetables to students. The 12 Alliance districts [New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas, Miami-Dade, Orange County (Orlando), Broward County (Fort Lauderdale), Palm Beach County, School District of Philadelphia, Baltimore City, Boston and DeKalb County (Greater Atlanta Area)] serve more than 635 million meals every school year with an annual combined budget of $800 million in food and supplies.

Avoid Becoming a Victim to Romance Scams

Washington, D.C. - January 24, 2020 - (The Stuff Gazette) -- Valentine’s Day and the days leading up to it can be exciting, but it can also lead to heartbreak, embarrassment, and financial loss. Well-rehearsed criminals search dating sites, apps, chat rooms, and other social media networking sites attempting to build “relationships” for the sole purpose of getting your money or your personally identifiable information.

FBI Richmond suggests taking these points into consideration to avoid becoming a victim.

Only use reputable, nationally-recognized dating websites; however, be aware that scammers may be using them too.
Research photos and profiles in other online search tools and ask questions.

Never provide your financial information, loan money, nor allow your bank accounts to be used for transfers of funds.

Do not allow attempts to isolate you from family and friends.

Do not blindly believe the stories of severe life circumstances, tragedies, family deaths, injuries, or other hardships geared at keeping your interest and concern.

If you are planning to meet someone in person you have met online, meet in a public place and let someone know where you will be and what time you should return home.

If you are traveling to a foreign country to meet someone check the State Department’s Travel Advisories beforehand (http://travel.state.gov/), provide your itinerary to family and friends, and do not travel alone if possible.

Victims may be hesitant to report being taken advantage of due to embarrassment, shame or humiliation. It’s important to remember, romance scams can happen to anyone at any time.

If you suspect your online relationship is a scam, cease all contact immediately. If you are a victim who has already sent money, immediately report the incident to your financial institution, file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crimes Complaint Center (www.ic3.gov), and contact law enforcement.

National School Choice Week: Jan 20 - 26

We are celebrating National School Choice Week; so, for more information, click HERE!

Harder Invites Central Valley to Participate in First Annual Valentines for Veterans Program

Modesto, CA - January 11, 2020 - (The Stuff Gazette) -- Representative Josh Harder (CA-10) announced his first annual Valentines for Veterans initiative and invited his neighbors throughout the Central Valley to join him in making valentines to deliver to area veterans. The event gives local schools, families, individuals, businesses, and other organizations the opportunity to make valentines to show our ongoing appreciation for the service of our veterans. Rep. Harder will collect the valentines and distribute them to veterans through partner organizations including the Pacific Heroes Project as well as local American Legion and VFW chapters in advance of Valentine’s Day.

“I’m always working to make sure our vets get the benefits and support they earned through their selfless service to our country – but there’s more to be done,” said Rep. Harder. “My Valentines for Veterans program will give everyone a chance to make a small gesture that could have a large impact and remind our veterans that we won’t forget their heroic service.”

Valentines may be mailed or hand-delivered to Rep. Harder’s Modesto office at 4701 Sisk Road, Suite 202 Modesto, CA 95356. Cards are due on February 10th. Interested participants should contact Rep. Harder’s office at (209) 579-5458 for more information.

Representative Harder is reaching out to local schools and service organizations to encourage participation in the program. A flyer with more information is available here.

Since taking office, Rep. Harder has worked tirelessly to ensure our veterans receive the services they earned. Last year, Rep. Harder helped 300 veterans cut through red tape to access nearly $250,000 in earned benefits. He’s also passed legislation to help the families of fallen servicemembers, pushed the White House to cover health care for Vietnam Veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange, and announced a federal investment of $150,000 to support homeless veterans in the Central Valley.

If you would like to participate in the Valentine's for Veterans Effort in YOUR area, Click HERE for more information on how you can do that!!

Iranian General Dead, What's Next, Asks Physicians for Civil Defense

Tucson, AZ - January 6, 2020 - (The Stuff Gazette) -- After Iranian General Qassem Soleimani was killed by a U.S. drone strike, Iran has vowed reprisals. A senior commander of Iran's powerful Revolutionary Guards Corps claims that up to 35 "vital" US and Israeli targets are within Iran's reach.

Physicians for Civil Defense observes that in this age of "asymmetric warfare," civilians here, not just military installations "over there," are at risk.

"Iran's aspirations of being a nuclear power, with ballistic missiles capable of delivering nuclear warheads to America, have apparently not yet been achieved, but other methods of causing mass casualties and disruptions are available," states Jane M. Orient, M.D, president of Physicians for Civil Defense.

Scenarios include a mass hostage situation; a "dirty bomb"; and widespread blackouts and disruption of essential services because of cyberwarfare or terrorist attacks on the electric grid.

The horrific 2004 school siege in Beslan, Russia, could be reenacted here. Are local and federal authorities prepared?

The first radiation dispersal device (RDD or "dirty bomb") was found in a Moscow park in 1995. Besides the damage from the conventional explosion, the most devastating effect would be panic from fear of radioactive contamination. U.S. governmental authorities still do not make appropriate radiation-monitoring equipment widely available despite the existence of excellent, affordable technology, Dr. Orient states.

The electrical grid is vulnerable as shown when a sophisticated, professionally coordinated attack with military weapons took down the Metcalf electrical substation in Silicon Valley in 2014. Gunmen temporarily knocked out telephone and 911 service, and shot up 17 transformers. Physical control systems used in electric utilities, manufacturing, and oil refineries are being targeted by Iranian hackers.

"Americans have had another wake-up call about the dangers in our world," Dr. Orient said. "They should at the very least assess their ability to shelter in place for a period of time. They need to learn how to help themselves and their neighbors, and not assume the government will be immediately available to save them."

Physicians for Civil Defense distributes information to help to save lives in the event of war or other disaster.

January: National Mentoring Month

Reps. Susan Davis (CA-53) and Jim Renacci (OH-16) j introduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing January as National Mentoring Month, celebrating the quality mentoring programs throughout the nation and the mentors to our young people that provide crucial support and guidance as they develop into our next generation of citizens and leaders.

“Throughout my life, I've been lucky enough to work with incredible young people and see firsthand the life changing impact that committed mentors can have on our children,” said Davis, a senior member of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce. “I was fortunate to have mentors who helped me succeed, and I had the opportunity to pay those efforts forward during my time with the Aaron Price Fellows program, a mentorship program aimed at fostering civically engaged students. I am thrilled to introduce this resolution which highlights the importance of these crucial mentorship programs across our country."

“I grew up with very little − paid my own way through school and was the first in my family to graduate college,” said Renacci. “Along the way, I was fortunate to have the advice and support of my parents and mentors to help me succeed. Not every child has that same support structure. That is why I’ve worked with other community leaders in Cleveland to start an empowerment program to connect students with business and community leaders. This resolution recognizes the influence mentoring programs have in helping students realize their educational and career goals and brings awareness to the need for further mentorship programs throughout the country.”

“Mentoring programs and supporters have leveraged National Mentoring Month as an opportunity to not only raise awareness but to get their communities engaged in this effort to provide a critical support to our young people,” said David Shapiro, president and CEO of MENTOR. “It’s only with this level of commitment and involvement that we can ensure every young person has the supportive relationships they need to grow and develop into thriving, productive and engaged adults.”

The Mentoring Effect, a national report, found that young people who were at risk of not completing high school, but who had a mentor were 55% more likely to be enrolled in college than those who did not. They were also 81% more likely to participate regularly in sports or extracurricular activities and 78% more likely to volunteer in their communities.

National Mentoring Month gives Members of Congress and Americans the opportunity to highlight mentoring programs that produce positive outcomes, and to focus on year-round strategies to grow their capacity and ensure that every young person who needs a mentor is connected to a caring adult.

National Mentoring Month is led by MENTOR: The National Mentoring Partnership and celebrates its 15th anniversary in 2017.

Rep. Davis serves as Chair of the Congressional Mentoring Caucus, which provides Members of Congress the opportunity to work collaboratively on youth mentoring and develop policy that will improve youth access to high-quality mentors.