Consider this an unusual blog – rather an invitation.
Do you know someone with Autism? Perhaps someone who is considered “neurodiverse”? Or maybe this person is yourself? Or are you a parent with a child on the spectrum or a teacher with a student? Then this information is for YOU.
As it is my pleasure to announce that I have been invited to be one of the three keynote speakers for the World Autism Summit 2023 hosted by the Autism Today Foundation via ZOOM. This is not your “usual” online or in-person conference – as it brings together experts from various genres. There will be speakers, including Dr. Temple Grandin, discussing early intervention strategies and research. And, also financial experts to help families plan their futures when there are unexpected expenses. Educators and Mental Health providers will discuss current trends. Community members will discuss support and relationships. We will hear from individuals with Autism or Neurodiversity. And on the lighter side, panels will include people representing the performing arts of music, acting, and dance. Plus, for those on the spectrum come ask your questions to people who look to connect with potential employers!
As I said, not your standard summit! And, my keynote will focus on matters of communication and safety. (Day 1, September 25th)
There is also some very exciting news to share in addition to the speakers and panelists. First, there are great sponsors who are hosting giveaways – including aTobii Dynavoxsystem! Found Mewill discuss during my program their newest identification app and system for people, pets, and “things” – trust me this is a smart tag on steroids! And The CPD Groupis graciously sponsoring the summit to give professional credit units to our registered attendees who need to acquire certifications. AND WAIT.. there is MORE… MOVIE NIGHTS, GAME NIGHTS, and an opportunity to talk with cast and directors from award-winning films!
Did I mention that Summit is FREE?! The CEU credits are FREE, too. You just need to do the following:
When you register be sure to indicate you need CPD/ CEU credits or a certificate of attendance.
Plan to attend the sessions during the September 25th to October 1st timeframe. After that date – the sessions will be for FEE, not for free. Certificates are emailed about 14 days after you attend, if not earlier.
Follow @AutismTodayOfficial on Instagram for fun giveaways, news, and current Summit information!
Check your email to see if you have been chosen for some free swag as a thank you for being an early bird registering!
Check the website often for the schedule and any changes or additions: WorldAutismSummit.org
In closing, the purpose of the World Autism Summit 2023 is to have an open dialog about the gifts, strengths, and talents of people with Autism/ Neurodiversity. Furthermore, to create an atmosphere of access, inclusion, and support. So, please consider joining me – I promise you won’t be bored – there is something for everyone!
Here is our reality… we in California, where I reside, are coming up towards our FOURTH month of being socially distant from our loved ones, places of work, schools and more. I know many of you reading share my experience.
Now I am no scientist. But, I trust those who have a huge amount of time invested in the study of infectious diseases, viruses and pandemics. So, when these experts tell me to wear a mask, stay away from large groups and practice distancing myself from others for my health and theirs – I do it.
Why am I writing the obvious? Well, it appears that these recommendations are not that obvious, after all. Some people scream it is their RIGHT to not wear a mask. Or they just won’t do it because this Covid 19 is a scam created by conspiracy theorists to sway elections, our school system, our economy and on and on.
I am going to digress for a brief history lesson. I am pretty sure that our forefathers did not have a Covid 19 pandemic on their minds as they formulated the Declaration of Independence and all the prior and subsequent ancillary documents needed to lead a country. Additionally, no where in any of the documents in the National Archive, that I know of, does it say you will lose your American-ism if you don a cloth over your mouth to stay healthy from a virus. If I am wrong- please comment below.
What?!? COVID 19 isn’t man-made? It isn’t a creation to bring the world to a giant halt? What is it?
Folks, I hate to break it to you. But, COVID 19 was caused by a bad chain of events that resulted in a virus that we can’t get a handle on – yet. Nothing more. Nothing less. It is a lethal virus. No one created it. No one formulated it in a lab to use as a way to sway anyone or anything. It is a virus. Sadly, it is a virus that seems to have longevity and is outsmarting us – for now. This Johns Hopkins Video is very insightful:
“It is a new kind of corona virus we haven’t seen before”
What did happen was that 9.8 million people worldwide have contracted this insidious disease. Hundreds of thousands have died. Would a mask have made a positive difference and saved lives? Maybe. But, I am willing to bet that not wearing a mask has made a negative difference.
WHAT CAN WE DO?
As humans we have great reasoning skills and that helps us to make informed rationale choices. Want to help flatten or get rid of the curve for COVID 19? Start by using your brain – literally- and wear a mask.
Now I understand that masks are cumbersome, hard to breathe in warm weather, etc. Some people are concerned that they may “die” if they wear a mask due to carbon monoxide poisoning. The Cleveland Clinic answered many questions about wearing a mask in this brief article.
Lastly, I did some investigating on fashionable, fun and functional masks. Here are some of my favorites and how to order them.
Hubby and I had just landed in Japan and caught a few hours of sleep when I realized it was Valentine’s Day back in the United States. I quickly logged on to hotel WiFi and wished my friends and colleagues in a group text a “Happy Valentine’s Day”. I made sure to add a few funny and snarky comments, such as how we unexpectedly and gloriously upgraded to business class for our 14 hour flight from LA to Osaka. The texts shared from the others were more of the same – wishes for a lovely “heart” day, etc.
Then came this text … “*Jane is in school where there is an active shooter happening right now.”
WHAT THE ______? My heart stopped. I reread the message at least five times before I responded. Took to CNN news and Twitter to discover, yes indeed, there was an active shooter and “Jane” was inside the school along with scores of other students.
Quickly I realized that my day of touring around the city Osaka, known for architecture, commerce and history, would be drastically altered because of a heinous crime thousands of miles away. I had to know she was OK. They were OK. I was in tears and feeling pretty helpless. They were dear friends and I wasn’t going to play tourist when we didn’t know if “Jane” was safe.
It was February 14, 2018 and the active shooting was at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. You would have to be living under a rock this past year not to know that this day was seminole on so many levels, including the way the students, parents and community responded in the aftermath.
In the end, “Jane” was on the survivor list. She saved lives by helping others to safety. She lived and helped others to do the same.
My friend, her family, their friends and their families now all mark time before and after this day. They lost loved ones in this tragedy and continue to ache in their hearts beyond measure. They are steadfast in not letting these young students and staff die in vain.
They are #MSDStrong
It is not lost on me that in the past 12 months thousands in the United States, and yes I said THOUSANDS, of adults, young adults, teens and children have died in their homes, schools and other venues due to crimes committed by guns. Now, before you spring to the comment section to tell me about gun rights, know that the debate over gun laws is not the focus of this blog. BUT… I am writing to ask for better education so we can all become part of the prevention process. I want all the “Janes” to feel that they can go to school, the mall, places of worship, concerts, etc. – without needing to figure out their exit plan in case “it” happens to them.
Sandy Hook Promise has offered a website full of information to identify and help be part of the solution to stop gun violence in our communities. Their KNOW THE SIGNS PROGRAM can be found here. It is worth your 5 minutes to read and share.
I close with a request – If you are a parent, a teacher or a friend… be wise, be aware and learn how you can know the signs.
This Valentine’s blog is dedicated to those who lost their lives a year ago at MS Douglas HS and those who are the survivors and relive this tragedy every single day.
They will not be forgotten:
Alyssa Alhadeff, age 14
Scott Beigel, 35
Martin Duque, 14
Nicholas Dworet, 17
Aaron Feis, 37
Jaime Guttenberg, 14
Chris Hixon, 49
Luke Hoyer, 15
Cara Loughran, 14
Gina Montalto, 14
Joaquin Oliver, 17
Alaina Petty, 14
Meadow Pollack, 18
Helena Ramsay, 17
Alex Schachter, 14
Carmen Schentrup, 16
Peter Wang, 15
*Jane is not the real name of the student, but used for anonymity.
Last week I was asked to help start aGoFundMe page for a person I have never met. She is a physical education teacher who through a series of life events now has debilitating back pain due to a spinal disc that has partially broken off. Surgery is needed to alleviate the pain and start the healing, but due to red tape, her insurance company is denying or limiting much of the coverage she will need to pay for the “must have” medical procedures and after care.
I don’t want to make this article about insurance issues in our country, but rather how a community has come together in less than five days to donate a serious “chunk of change” to get Ms. Monica Wood back on her feet again. They have given her not only financial help but the gift of their love and community spirit.
Side note: I know the agony of back pain and my experiences have been nothing compared to what Monica is having to endure. Read related blog.
Monica Wood and I have communicated via good old fashioned texts and what I have learned is this is a vivacious woman who is beloved by the students, staff and parents at Grand View Elementary School in Manhattan Beach, California. She exudes all the traits one needs for a speedy recovery as she is hopeful and keeping a positive outlook. She also believes in not wasting a moment or wallowing on her situation as she recently asked a group of friends about how to get connected with area organizations who knit blankets for families with new babies. Geez – that is one incredible woman!
Monica’s unique story is best told by the many comments and photos that have been left on the walls of the GoFundMe campaign. I am simply inspired by each and every one. These days we are all so busy and focused on our own lives – but, the outpouring of love and generosity to help this educator simply is a testimony to the willingness of community members to stop everything in order to help. Not only are they demonstrating their support with their wallets, but also with their hearts and social sharing to others. Those who are in social media call the act of social sharing: #SocialGood!
From the GoFundMe “Giving BACK to Monica Wood” campaign:
Monica, You are the best! Always positive, encouraging, and energetic. We are so sorry you are having such pain. We wish you a speedy recovery. Love, Kate, JT, Edie and David <B>
Ms. Wood- you were the first person to really see Brendan and to help him have happy time in school. You gave him a safe place and a teacher’s love. I’m so sorry you are going through this. You deserve the best of everything. ~ <B.P/>
We got your back, Monica!!!!! ~ Kari
Monica Wood has responded to all the amazing folks in her GoFundMe “sphere” with these words
Lastly, I conclude this note to all with a video from the GoFundMe page and also my thanks to all for reading this very special story.
I love quotes. I love photography. Like a peanut butter and jelly sandwich- they are “perfect” when paired together. I am confident that I am not the only one who thinks that the combination of a witty or motivational statement superimposed on a whimsical or lovely photo can make you smile or feel inspired. In fact, social media platforms, such as Twitter and Facebook, have dedicated days that lend themselves to just these type of posts with images – #MondayMotivation #TuesdayTravel #WednesdayWisdom #TBT (Throw Back Thursday) and more.
Never one to miss an opportunity to showcase my favorite photography, I have embraced creating images with my own or others’ quotes as passionately as I have ingested many a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
In the social media world there are people who are content creators (people who use their skills to create engaging posts.). There also are people who are known as social media influencers. This second group are folks who have an audience that reacts – usually positively (and often profitably) – to the endorsement or reviews posted by the influencer. Some may say I am both. But, if I have to pick one- I would love to be known as a content creator. I think developing fun and meaningful messaging on social media posts for my own or another’s brand leaves far more a lasting impression than endorsing product after product after product. My favorite is when you can meld the two together- such as working for a brand that wants you to promote a social good / philanthropic agenda. Or if the brand has an interesting story to tell – that is heart- wrenching, inspirational, or teaches a life lesson. Plus, posting on your own social media platforms images or video that you have created, is for a person like me, an enormous amount of fun!
Photos taken in unique places are often my favorite backgrounds for posts with quotes.
Photo from Waimea, Hawaii. December 2016. Photo by Louise Sattler
Waikiki Beach, Hawaii 2016 Photo: Louise Sattler
I also like to create posts that promote education and travel together
Skagway, Alaska (near the Canadian border) June 2018. Photo by Louise Sattler
Nara, Japan February 2018. Photo by Louise Sattler
Kyoto Train Museum in Japan (February 2018) Photo by L. Sattler
Sometimes you can forgo a quote because the objects in the photo are message enough
Photo by Louise Sattler Paso Robles, California 2018
Or nature provides you the perfect composition and no words are needed
California Sunset – 2016 Photo by Louise Sattler
Osaka Castle, Japan
Bamboo- Japan
Messages at a temple in Kyoto, Japan
Santa Monica Pier, California
Don’t forget that people make great social media photo posts, too!
Lastly, a photo for a social media post can include people! Some of my favorite photos are not the ones that are posed, but the candids of friends taking a photo of themselves as they live – “in the moment”. Below is Marlee Matlin and her interpreter, Jack with Camryn Manheim (center) at the Nyle DiMarco Foundation party in Los Angeles in 2016. Just look at their joy!
Marlee, Camryn and Jack … Photo by L. Sattler
Last thoughts…
Social media allows you an avenue for creativity to flow from your brain to the world wide web! I would be remiss if I didn’t conclude this post with a few cautionary tales…
Be sure you have permission to post photos of people. Especially those who are not adults, but minors. It is just common courtesy to skip posting a photo with people who happen to be in the background without their permission. At the very least, blur their faces. Portrait mode on a camera can help focus on the subject matter or people you wish to capture and not ancillary folks!
Limit the selfies! Enough said.
Every moment doesn’t need to be photographed. Nor does it need to be to shared on social media. Especially each and every milestone of your life or that of your child’s.
Put your name on photos that you care about or have them watermarked. I had the misfortune of having my photos “hijacked” by another social media poster. UGH
Give credit to photos that you use from others. So, if you have a photographer helping you at an event and use their photos- credit them! If you use stock photos- acknowledge that, as well.
You don’t need a fancy camera – although that helps. I use either my OLD Nikon 60 or my iPhone. Once in a while I will grab my Samsung phone/ NOTE because the camera is so amazing!
Simply enjoy the creative process. I may not be a “top photographer”, but I enjoy photography and am hoping others enjoy my efforts.
A few more to close out this post…
Getty Museum, Los Angeles, California 2015 . L Sattler.
Scenes from San Pedro, CA – all photos by L. Sattler
This post dedicated to my dear friends, Sue and Bob, who over dinner last week complimented my travel photography . Thanks for the encouragement, laughter and sharing the baklava!
I am a career chameleon. I have worked many years in the rewarding field of education as a Psychologist, Sign Language Instructor and Interpreter, Parent and Teacher Trainer and much more. I LOVE the milieu of education. It is one of the most “warm fuzzy” careers you can have because you are able to make a difference in the lives of students on a daily basis. Yet, it also can be stressful (very) and with the add on of responsibilities outside of the prevue of education being placed on teachers, many educators are leaving the field. To some degree that was me – ten years ago.
Admittedly, I was ready for something ELSE. Something that wouldn’t result in burn -out. As it so happened around that time I developed sign language products to help novice learners, especially parents and First Responders. I used social media to market these products and amazingly – they sold like hotcakes! YES! This was the catalyst that I needed to find my “second” career. And, due to crazy twists and turns in my life, I landed into the world of social media.
Fast forward, now I want to take this opportunity to share (and educate) others about what I have learned working in social media this past decade. Consider this the “inside scoop”…
Photo: Pexels.com
Point 1: To have a social media career is to know that social media as a career is not about making random fun posts but about constructing a well thought out strategic plan for 1-3-6 months – at a minimum.
This is a profession that is not for the weak of heart or for someone who requires a lot of sleep. The first step is to become educated. What are the nuances of each of the most used and requested social media platforms? My advice – learn about them and their algorithms and analytic programs. Become an on-going student of media and marketing as these are professions that change on such a rapid basis that it may make your head spin. And lest not forget about the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regulations.
Take away: A career in social media is not about the “posts” but the strategy behind the posts.
Point 2: Posts should be meaningful and client/ product centered.
When you work in social media, unless you are a key influencer and are making a living doing so, chances are you are working for a client representing a brand. It is important to remember that you (or your agency) have been contracted or employed by a brand to work on their behalf. This means that your focus is on the client. Every day you will be looking at their competitors, curating related content, creating eye-popping engaging posts, and analyzing the impact of your campaigns. Unless you are instructed to be part of the campaign – your face (literally) needs to be out of the picture.
Take away: Focus on your client if you truly are a media strategist.
logo of Mixi.jp
Point 3. There is social media in other countries. Know what is popular there.
The mistake we often make in social media in the USA is thinking that the only social media platforms “worth” anything are the ones we use here in “Old Glory”. Not true. If your brand wants to connect with an international audience then you need to familiarize yourself with these (among others), too: MIXI(Japan) and Youku (China).
Point 4: Social Media is a profession. Don’t dilute it by working for free
If you have read this far chances are you want to work in social media and that means needing to getting PAID. No one will take you seriously if you give away all your expertise. This also doesn’t help grow social media as a profession. Gratis work for an occasional friend or non-profit is considered “ok” – but be cautious. And, you are worth more than just a few dollars for your knowledge.
Point 5: Get professional liability insurance.
This is a profession where you most likely will be a freelancer. Suppose that you work for a client who feels your strategy “didn’t work” and wants to now take you to court for “breach of contract”. I highly recommend having liability insurance and also a legal team to help you – “just in case”. While there are many good insurance and legal service companies / individuals, I use Legal Shield for legal services and HISCOX for professional liability insurance coverage.
Point 5: Be CLEVER! Use your own content or give credit where credit is due!
Almost every person has a cell phone. It also is one of the most important “tools” a social media manager can own in their personal arsenal. BE CLEVER! Use great apps and computer programs to architect social media campaigns with animation, gifs, video, images, graphs and much more that will be “eye popping” and keep your audience engaged!
Most importantly – give credit to where your content was curated. If the photo is not your own – let people know that! If the quote you used was authored by someone else- make sure you acknowledge them.
Sidenote: Favorite programs include RELAY, CANVA, RIPL, LUMYER and TYPORAMA. All are apps and RELAY andCANVA have desktop versions.
Sample Twitter Chat post made using an adorable stock photo by Pixabay for the CADE FOUNDATION
Point 6: Have Fun!
It is no secret that my work in social media includes being a social media correspondent. The opportunities I have been afforded has allowed me to meet, greet, interview and often become friends with many who are in the entertainment, tech and media verticals. People often think “all I do” is work as a social media correspondent. It has been a “ton of fun” to create campaigns and events that are high profile or to attend them as a social media reporter/ correspondent.
Below is a sample of where you may have seen my “work” as either an attendee or correspondent.
The US FESTIVAL 1982: I had the pleasure to work with ICON Television and Music to help build their social media presence and create an event for their official film premiere. This was an exciting event as the film’s story is about a two weekend musical event solely paid for by Steve Wozniak, one of the founders of APPLE. (Check it out on Amazon and other online stores.)
Photo by Louise Sattler during US FESTIVAL 1982 Premiere
SUPPORTING SOCIAL GOOD CAUSES with SOCIAL MEDIA
RACE TO ERASE MS GALA
Below you will see photographs I have snapped from the ORANGE CARPET at the 2016 annual gala for ERASE MS. I simply love this organization and am proud to have donated my time to help them promote about resources for those with Multiple Sclerosis and the medical advancements made to help those who have been diagnosed with this disease and related disorders.
On the “Orange carpet” with LL Cool J – at Erase MS Gala (Photo credit: Louise Sattler)
iPain Foundation Gala
The iPain Foundation helps those who have chronic disorders, such as Lupus or RA.
Nyle DiMarco Foundation for Sign Language Support for Parents and Deaf Children
Sasha Farber, Emma Slater (Farber) and Todd Krim
Marlee Matlin, Nyle DiMarco and Camryn Manheim at the Nyle DiMarco Foundation Party
This foundation is near and dear to my heart as helping families to learn how to communicate with their Deaf child with sign language (ASL) has been one of my life-long career goals.
Last thoughts…
I love covering travel events – such as the LA TRAVEL and ADVENTURE SHOW
In closing… I hope that this article has enlightened those who wish to pursue a career in social media. And remember that this career is not for everyone.
The educator in me wants to leave you with some last nuggets of information:
Follow reliable online tech and media outlets (Mashable is one of my favorites)
Join groups that help to educate without judgement on Facebook and especially, Linkedin.
Remember with social media, like with almost everything else – is dependent on knowing your business by being educated. In other words… education does matter!
Good luck! And remember life is too short – so do what you love. I am lucky… I get to work in both EDUCATION and SOCIAL MEDIA!
About four times a year I receive an invitation to partake at a Celebrity ConnectedGifting Suite. This company, owned by Gene Sheynis , packs beautiful venues with vendors all waiting to meet and greet celebrities and have an opportunity to discuss with them the wonders of their product or service.
After nearly five years of attending these gifting suites I have become friendly with many of the Celebrity Connected staff and really admire their keen eye for picking out brands. Recently, they have increased the number of companies “with a purpose” – meaning those who have a desire to “give back” with a cause. I love meeting folks who truly care about making a difference!
This time it was my friend and associate – Photographer Joy Daunis, who spotted Gems for Gems first at the Oscar gift suite. Apparently, her initial encounter with them left such a huge impression that she came “flying” over to me and said that I shouldn’t delay meeting them. I am glad I listened to Joy, as she was right- they were amazing, inspirational and “sparkly” people!
At the Gems for Gems Booth (photo by Joy Daunis of JoyDaunisPhotos.com)
Jordan Guildford is the founder of Gems for Gems. She and I had an opportunity to meet during the gift suite and subsequently spoke on the phone. She is simply the rock to this organization and someone who I think will keep Gems for Gems going for a long time!
I asked Jordan to answer some questions for me to share more about her Canadian based charity looking to have outreach in the United States. I also have copied below their powerful mission statement from their website. Please take a few moments to learn more about Gems for Gems – the Calgary Canadian group with a huge HEART!
From the Gems for Gems website:
Gems for Gems is a Calgary based Charity whose mission is to ‘Empower Women to Empower Themselves’. Through the collaborative efforts of corporations and community, this heart centered organization works with shelters to change the lives and futures of women who have experienced abuse. It is our belief that within each woman exists a hero, ready to save the day. We teach, inspire and motivate, through our three initiatives, to bring out that hero in each woman we work with….
(Question 1: Louise Sattler: LS) We met at the Celebrity Connected Oscar Gift Suite (CCOGS). Did you find any of the celebrities sharing their experiences with domestic violence (either as a victim or as a child of a victim) with you?
(Answer 1: Jordan G (JG): Yes! Our whole team was blown away by how willing so many were to share their personal stories… Many cried with us as intimate moments were shared. It was incredibly moving.
(Question 2 : LMS): What are some of the reasons you wanted to attend CCOGS? Did you accomplish those roles.
(Answer 2 : JG):We were invited to attend this past summer and our goal right from then was to (hopefully) get pictures with as many celebs that were willing and had our fingers crossed for some videos supporting the Gems for Gems cause….
What we actually received blew us away! We were never denied a picture, we have countless videos, and over 25 celebrities have given us their personal information to be able to work with us moving forward. it was just incredible and we are very much on a high!
(Question 3: LS): I know that you are asking for donation of jewelry? Why? And what is it used for?
(Answer 3: JG): Gems for Gems began with a Christmas Jewelry Drive in which women donate their ‘like-new’ jewelry to our charity. Our team cleans it and gives packages of them to the women who have survived domestic abuse, and are living in the shelters, on Christmas morning!
Gifts donated with high value are appraised and will be auctioned in support of our Gems for Gems Scholarship Program being launched this year! All donations are very much appreciated and we would love as much support as we can get!
(Question 4: LS) How long has Gems for Gems been around?
(Answer 4 JG): Gems for Gems began Christmas 2015!
(Question 5: LS): . Biggest accomplishment so far?
(Answer 5: JG) Without a doubt, the contacts we gained from attending the Celebrity Connected Luxury Gifting Suite. I am still blown away.
(Question 6 LS): Your plans for the next year? Next 3-5 years?
(Answer 6: JG). GROWTH! Our greatest desire is to positively affect the horrendous statistics on domestic abuse. We are definitely wanting to expand to the U.S.A. and will do so once our program is strong and producing the desired results in Canada. We have a very proactive approach to this staggering issue and want to create lasting change for each woman in our Scholarship Program as we assist in ending the cycle of abuse.
For our team, the most important mission is to show each woman she can be her own hero. This situation can be turned around for herself and her children. We believe education is the key to empowering each woman and, through the ability to stand on her own feet financially and emotionally, the dependency on her abuser will be severed.
(Question 7 LS): Do you have any resources for people who need your services but are Deaf or have family members with Disabilities or disorders such as Autism?
(Answer 7: JG): Thankfully the shelters are a safe place for all coming from an abusive situation. Through our Scholarship Program all applicants with the desire to turn their situation around will have an equal opportunity to be awarded a scholarship. The schools we are partnering with will echo our belief that we are all equals no matter what disabilities or disorders we have. We all have our hurdles to overcome. Some have more, some less, some can be seen and others are internal. Gems for Gems seeks to create change this area for all.
(Final Question/ LS): How can my audience in the United States help?
( Final Answer / JG). We would absolutely love to have jewelry donations sent in of any value! Items of higher vale can be sent in with a note explaining the purpose of the donation is to support the Gems for Gems Scholarship Program as mentioned above. (mailing address below)
We are also happy to take donations of any amount toward the scholarships! We are also open to naming one after a business or individual if the entire costs are covered.
Support can also be as simple as spreading the word! Talk about Gems for Gems and think about those who may wish to get further involved! We are ALWAYS open to collaborative ideas!
Mailing Address
Gems For Gems
PO Box Seton PO
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
T3M 1Y6
Please go get “gently used” gems and send them in to help their cause. The address provided above!
I am pissed. (Sorry Mom, but I have to use this strong language)
I am pissed because our children are being bullied by the very people who should be protecting them, encouraging them and nurturing their endeavors. Who should be seeing that the futures of our youth are as bright as the sun and not dark as a storm looming.
I am pissed because we now live in a society where the children need to act as leaders and the leaders are acting like spoiled and bratty children.
I am pissed because teachers who walk in to schools every day to accomplish one goal… give each of their student’s the best education possible against all odds – now are being asked to engage in gun fights. Seriously! Are we the wild, wild west?!
I am pissed because when I travel abroad people ask me if I am embarrassed to be a citizen of the United States because of our leaders’ obvious lack of common sense and good judgment?!
I am pissed because our leaders are adding to the problem by deflecting blame versus putting their high paid education to use and creating sensible solutions.
I am pissed because our leaders are not doing their job by enacting any semblance of a comprehensive and well thought out plan, but act like the “Keystone Cops” with methods of bullying and worse.
I am pissed because I work in social media with the goal to use it to make a positive difference in the world, while others may be using it for destructive reasons. Anyone who works in social media and understands its’ power will tell you that some conversations are best left OFF the Twitterfeed and BEST to be done IRL (in real life).
I am pissed because my dear friend has to live a “new normal” – knowing that each day she and her daughter will remember how a shooter nearly took this young innocent teen’s life and succeeded in taking the lives of 17 of her classmates, including close friends.
I am pissed that children throughout our world go to bed and have nightmares that aren’t “bad dreams” but are due to their daytime reality.
I am pissed that the problems of our communities, country and world are so enormous that we don’t even know where to begin to make it better.
But… perhaps I am hopeful that the youth of our world may just have the answers that the adults in our world have refused to accept. So, I look forward to the day when each of these amazing kids can VOTE and get the naysayers who believe that their views are the only views OUT OF OFFICE and make their sentiments as obsolete as the negative and non-inclusive principles they cling to.
This post dedicated to my dear friends, Sue and Bob, who over dinner last week complimented my travel photography . Thanks for the encouragement, laughter and sharing the baklava!
After nearly five years of attending these gifting suites I have become friendly with many of the Celebrity Connected staff and really admire their keen eye for picking out brands. Recently, they have increased the number of companies “with a purpose” – meaning those who have a desire to “give back” with a cause. I love meeting folks who truly care about making a difference!
