serving our community since 1997 Text FAMILY to 85944 and reply YES to help us provide shelter... A $10 donation will be deducted from your phone bill *Does not work with Metro PCS COSAC Foundation | PO Box 292-577 Davie, FL 33329 | 954-924-3571 Part of the North American Street Newspaper Association On your mark, Get set, Go! Staff Writer It’s been almost a full year since we launched our 5K Race to End Homelessness! Last Februaury a couple hundred participants came and supported our local homeless by competing in our first 5K. The weather was cold, but spirits were high that day. Thanks to the generous support of the community, we raised money and had a good time doing it! We are so excited to announce our 2nd Annual 5K Race to End Homelessness is a go! On March 24th at 8 am, we invite all novice and experienced runners to join us for a good cause. Have you made a New Year’s Resolution to get in shape? Start Running? Make a positive impact on your Community? How about all three! Our course is on Hollywoods’ Broadwalk alongside the ocean. It’s a flat, fast course, and this year we have an ultimate course experience! Our organizers have planned for cash prizes, live music, costumed characters, 50/50 raffle, refreshments, and much more! Registration is open at www.HVoice.org/5K! Sign up today to ensure your free t-shirt. If you want to help, but can’t make it, we are always accepting donations and looking for race sponsors. Thank you for your continued support and we hope to see you March 24th, 2012! 4 Tips to Find the Right Charity Brandon Ballenger When: March 24th, 2012 8 am Where: Garfield St. & Broadwalk, Hollywood, FL 33019 Register online today! Homeless Voice Featured! see video at hvoice.org Homeless advocate Fitzpatrick to be inducted into MLK Hall of Fame Chad Smith The number of charitable organizations in the U.S. has steadily grown over the past decade to more than 1.2 million, according to a Giving USA Foundation [PDF] report. But not every charity deserves that name – the IRS regularly revokes the 501(c) (3) tax-exempt status of organizations that fail to disclose their finances or that it believes aren’t acting in the public interest. According to the same report, the The charity in the video above, COSAC homeless shelter, spends about 80 government dropped 275,000 nonprofits from the cents per dollar on services. That’s actually pretty good – CharityWatch’s list of top-rated charities only includes those that “spend 75% or more of list in June. their budgets on programs, spend $25 or less to raise $100 in public support, Individual Americans donated more than $211 [and] do not hold excessive assets in reserve.” billion to charities last year, and are expected to their cause and goals with a mission statement that should exgive a similar amount by the end of 2011. But how plain the reasons behind their activities. The statement should do potential donors make sure the money goes to a be on the organization’s website or promotional materials, and charity that will make good use of it? Money Talks if you don’t feel it matches your own causes or what the orNews founder Stacy Johnson takes a look at tips ganization actually does, move on. Be skeptical of any group for smart donating: http://www.moneytalksnews. without a mission statement – that doesn’t speak highly of their com/2011/11/16/4-tips-to-find-the-right-charity/ organization skills, or how they make spending decisions. Administrative overhead, including advertising and 2) Look at money spent on the cause. executive pay, often eat up much It’s one thing to say you want to help peolarger percentages of a charity’s budget. Last year, Charity Navi- After visiting COSAC homeless ple, and another to do it. You can request an organization’s financial report (called gator looked at charity CEO pay Form 990) and dig through it yourself to shelter, MoneyTalkNews and found the CEO of the Scripps see if the walk backs the talk. Many are Research Institute makes more deemed them a worthy cause... online and searchable in the Foundation than a million per year. Others Center’s 990 Finder. There are also sites appoint family to high-paying that have already done the work for you, board positions, and some spend like Charity Navigator, CharityWatch, GuideStar, and the Betyour money on raising more with telemarketing camter Business Bureau. These kinds of sites also feature donor paigns. reviews to give you more perspective. Many legitimate do-gooders may not make the most 3) Review charity status. Sometimes charities get dropped effective use of your donation, and there are plenty of off the IRS’ list. Aside from the tax deduction implications, scams out there too. When it comes to charity, here’s and as Stacy said in Is Your Charity Still Charitable? How to how to run a check before you sign one… Find Out, “losing tax-exempt status is a definite red flag and 1) Read the mission statement. Charities sum up (Continued on pg 9) Pat Fitzpatrick thought there was a chance he wouldn’t be able to attend the banquet where he will be honored as this year’s Martin Luther King Jr. Commission of Florida Hall of Fame inductee. Fitzpatrick thought he might be behind bars, ironically where King found himself a number of times during his quest for social justice in the 1950s and 1960s. The annual award, which honors locals who have followed in King’s footsteps in a struggle for equality in some form or fashion, is to be given to Fitzpatrick on Jan. 15, six days after his trial on a trespassing charge was to start. Fitzpatrick, an outspoken advocate for the homeless, thought there was a chance he would be in the Alachua County jail by then. He was charged, along with three others, with trespassing on the city’s Bo Diddley Community Plaza as part of an Occupy Gainesville protest in October 2011. But, this week, after a death in his attorney’s family, the trial was moved back to Jan. 19. Former Alachua County Commissioner Rodney Long, who heads the King Commission and organizes the weeklong celebration that will begin Tuesday, said King would be proud of the work Fitzpatrick did to overturn a “very immoral law,” referring to the city’s ordinance limiting soup kitchens to serving 130 meals a day. For the past few years, Fitzpatrick has argued and pleaded with city commissioners to do away with the limit. (Continued on pg 8) Our Purpose: To Help the Homeless Learn How to Help Themselves The Homeless Voice January 2012 2 Friends of the Homeless For just $15 a month you can keep a homeless family off the streets for a day Daniel Harrison Danny and George Darla King Darren Nolf David Pearlman David Thawley David V Torlone Dawn Monfries Dawn Sinka Deborah F. Immormino Deborah H Green Delores B Mordon Demetrius D Rodriguez Dena Harrison Denis and Bertha Arenstein Deparis Fische Diane Friedman Dolores Brower Dolores R. Cerra Donna Marie Jesudowich Dorothy Griffith Family Dorothy Kay Garbutt Dorríe Terry Doug Boucher Family † Douglas Boucher Dr Mary Michaela Farren Dr. Burch B Stewart Dynamic Movers, Inc. Eduardo Hernandez Elaine Snaith Elizabeth Hunsberger Elizabeth Marsh Elizabeth P. Sublett Elks Lodge # 2407 Ellen Heron Elliott Hechtman ElviraL & Iracema Pires Elyse Rich EPG Controls, INC Eric Harrison Erica Fulton Erica Sanclair Ernest Gross Escrow Account Essential Oil Healthline Eva & George Gorzkowski Evelyn & Vincent Salerno Evan V Jones Everglades Moon, Florida Auto Insurance Inc. Exxon Mobil Corporation Ferguson Family Floyd and Luana Coats Freddy Alvarado Fred S Kolm & Rena Duncan Fred T Verny†† JR†††† Gabrielle Ello Gail Boyke Gary & Cynthia Magnus G.R. and J.D. Falbey G.S. Lybrand George Abraham George & Carmen Gulisano Georgia Gaynor Germania Garcia Giankarlo Squicemari Gladstone Beckford Gladys Gonzalez Gladys & Jose Sanmartin Glenda Sainsbury God Bless Florence Menard Good Search Gordon Whitehead Gottlieb & Blair Family Grace Marth Graham R. Mitchell Gregory Levine Guillermo D Galindo Gustavo Cabezas Harlan Henderson Hartford Property Connection, Inc. Heather A Salt & Terrence C Salt Helen Larach Holly J. Andrus Howard Bienenfeld Huarte and Vidaillet Hugo DeCarpintini Hurricane Prevention Inc Ignacio Huarte Inessa Robbins Innogive Foundation In Loving Memory of Christina A. Tegerides In Loving Memory of Florence & Nat Popkin In Loving Memory of In Loving Memory of Rosa Esperanza Manrique Frances Klein In Loving Memory of Pino Isabel Grimany In Loving Memory of 1st Continental Mortgage Adam Staler Addias Eugene Adriana Fernandez Adriana N. Quila† Adrienne and Mike Al & Barbara Liebmann Al and Annie Albert J. Hamilton Ph D Albert J. Taragowski Alfred C. Scuderi Jr. Alice Ford and Melvin MawHinney Allen Yancy Amanda Reynolds Amber Rowan American Express Charitable Fund Amparo L. Korey Amy Curic Andre Johnson Andre and Heguette Bernier Stachewitsch Andrea Brown Andrew N. Daly Andrew & Lynn Lassman Ann and Jean Tapia Ann M. Hamilton Ann-Marie White Anna Marye Levier Anne-Marie Decanal Anne McCudden Ann Ritchie Anthony Gallo Anthony Ralph Anthony Rhodes Antione Collins Antonieta G. Bohill Anzalone Santa & Vincenzo Armando Reyes Arnold Reemer Atkinson and Bartley Awake Inc. Barbara Desanto Barbara Robinson Barbara Strong Baumann Family Beatriz C Perez Benjamin Sanchez Beth Farans Bill and Priscilla La Gasse Bob Hall Bobby Neal Bonita L Akinji Boyke Brad and Krystal Kelly Brian Herrmann & Aura Herrmann Bruce Wethersoon C. Youngblood C.R. Gallagher Calvary Chapel of Doral Camille Messam Carl L Miller Carlo Harrison Carmen VanScoy Carol Lockette Carol Mercer Carol Murray Carolyn and Family Casandra Thomas Cathy and Kids Charlene Bugnacki & Paul Bugnacki Charles J. Youngman Charles K. Wilson Chris Sanchez Christine M Wilson Christine McAuliffe Chuenren Tsai Clark Rogers Claudia George Claudia K. Tapolow††† Collectron of Atlanta Comet Couriev† † Connie & Ginger Murphy Constance Lessoff Constance M Fast Corrina Frank-Sanchez Corinne James Covenant of Goddess, Elibet Hanson Crime Watch Cynthia Ann Guardia & Paulo Emilio Guardia Dalal Hammoud Almeida Dallan Michele King Dan Gilcert Danbareli Holdings Inc. Daniel Guevara Mail check to: COSAC Foundation P.O. Box 292-577 Davie, FL 33329 Please include on memo what name should appear in paper. Jose A. Estruch, Jr. In Loving Memory of Kris Soltan In Loving Memory of Martin E. Grey In Loving Memory of My Daughter Melissa Lurz In Memory of Mertedes De Pinto In Loving Memory of Peter Sullivan In Loving Memory of Rex Lichtenberger In Loving Memory of Thomas Gasbarro In Memory of Steven Maderman In Memory of Martha Hughes In Memory of Betancueto Family In Memory of Bill Sledge In Memory of Billy Corwin In Memory of Brian Groleau In Memory of C.T.R. In Memory of Charles Horton In Memory of Chief George J. Hodges In Memory of Dan Holland In Memory of George Ericson In Memory of Gertrude Chong In Memory of Irene Grady Johnson In Memory of Martin Grey In Memory of Maxima† In Memory of Melba DeSanto In Memory of My Good Friend Pat Gibson In Memory of My Mother Pearl McCann In Memory of my Sister Sheila O’Keefe In Memory of Scott Paul Cooper In Memory of Stanley Smolen In memory of Wesley H. Woodall† In Memory of William F. Judge Intercontinental Management Consulting Group, Inc. Isabelle J. Henry Ivonne Fernandez J & L Racing Inc. DBA/ A wesome Sports J. Coffee Jackie Johnson Jacqueline M. McCarty Jacqueline McCarty James & Bonnie Jean Lide James & K. Heather Molans James Black James D. Potter JR James Prestia Jamie F. Flores Janet Campbell Janho Group, Inc DBA POSH Jason Emrik Jason T Korose & Marie D Plett Javier Alvarez Javier Perez Jeff & Denise Boehm Jeffrey and Veronica Bujold Jennifer Hicky Jennifer S. Nickel Jenny Curic Jessica Padilla Jessica Rachel Duff Jesus Diaz Jim Johnson Jim Lentz Jimmy Daniels Joan Futscher & Kids Joanne Thomas Johanna T Law Revocable Intervivous Trust John & Ruth Mautino John & Teresa Black John C. Burt John Criasia John Dinielli John Evans & Family John Gaeta Johnís Plumbing Service Jonathan Burger Jorge Jorge Joseph Raymund Joseph Soares Joseph Yagbes Josh Searles Joshua Kobasky Joy L McConaghy Joyce Abrams Lybrand & G.S Lybrand Joyce Hamilton Joyce Johnstone Juan and Antonieta Bofill Juan Galindo Judith Kelly Judith Temple Judith Vidal Judy B. Pascarella Juliet Iler Julio A. Izquierdo Julio Fernandez June Jones Justin Rowan K.J. 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Johnson † Mark Faber Mark Targett Marlene S Warner Marshal Bugin Martha Avstreih-Ross Martha Roman Marvin Shatze Mary and Klaus Nitsche Mary Green Mary Lepage & Laurence P. Lepage Mary M Simons Mary Sue Ellis Maryann Springer Marynell Lubinski Maureen Barry Mauro Boraby Jr McAvoy Family Mel Blount Melissa Berman Merav & Ezra Alexander Michael & Michale Rhett Michael R. Prokop, Jr. Michele Martello Michelle M. Touriz & Albert W. Touriz Mike Cross Miss LaRae Williams Mohammed Ziauddin Mona B Staub & New!!! Sign up online: www.HomelessVoice.org/friend Ruth C Grey Morris Grazi Mr. and Mrs. Bocanegra Mr. and Mrs. Carson Mrs. Jenkins Ms. Evelyn Salerno Ms. Marilyn Smith Mustafa Mehmet Gokoglu Mynona J Thompson Myriam Goris Nancy Keil Nancy Schuler Nancy T Ciaramitar Naomi Ross Natalia Nunez Nestor Martin Network For Good Nichole Faber Nicole Lee Nelson Norman & Sharon Grad Norman L Lieberman Norman Scott Oakland Park† Omnia and Rene Perez On Behalf of Matthew Lambert OTD Messenger, Inc Otto Garcia Pakita Price Pamela Bezenah Paola C Mollica Papadopoulos Family Trust Patricia and Shurland George Patricia Lee Russ† Patricia Toomey Paula King Philip Oviasogie Purification Oviasogie Philip S. Lafresnaye & Janet Lafresnaye Phyllis R. 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Lauderdale Saks Jewelry Designer Sally Lister Salvador Melendez & Wilma J. Melendez Samual Manery Samuel R Halpern PA Sandra K Stevens Sandra L. Wilhelm Sandra Pratt Sarah R Currin Sarah Toledo Savoia Sweig Scott Aguiar Sebastian Parks Sergio Cobo Sheila Holder Sheldon Jones Sherline Cyriaque Shirley Ullman Simone Manning-Moon Sophonie & Ketty Toussaint Southern Financial Title Services Inc. Stacy West Steinhardt Family Steve Dillan Steve Goolsby Sue T & Robert K Mahood Sunbelt Medical Billings, INC. Surfiní Seniors Inc Susan Chisefsky Susan C Humeston Susan Pasqualino Susan P Brady Suzanne Matsurra Suzette M. Rodriguez Tailored Advertising, Inc Tamara Southard Tara Hunter Temple Aron Hakodesh Temple Beautiful Thank you so much Sean & Lois for all your help. Thank You Winn Dixie Theresa Rothrock & David J Valeo The Baldwin Family The Baptista Family The Chilsons The Davis Family The Geise Family The Herrmann Family The Herrmann Family The Kunicki Family The Ladueís The Maione Family The Martinez Family The Matsuura Family The Monserrate Family† The Morabito Family The Nicaraguaís The Ramos Family The Rionís Family The Savir Family The Schneider Family The Strikowski family The Swartout’s†† The Verny & Stewart Families The Watsons Thomas A Kramer Thomas Rua Thye Rencurrellís Timothy and Barbara Wilson Timothy L. Whitelaw Timothy Lukehard Todd Palgon Tom Thumb Food Stores, Inc. Tressie W. Osborne Triana M. Resto & Frank Gomez Ulises & Elena Rodriguez Una Gota De Vida, Inc Uylna Quadrino Vance Gunn Victoria J. Arasim Vincent & Evelyn Virginia H. Bailey Wells Fargo Bank Wendy Bryan William & Silvia Hoblet Wynona A Thompson Yorick and Bonita † Yvette Johnson Yvonne Fischer Zlata and Alfredo Jr Salazar In Loving Memory of Angela J. Fante “Mimi” June 4, 1917 June 12, 2010 3 Donate Online www.homelessvoice.org/donate As the COLD weather comes in, our needs often expand. Many homeless still live on the street and when the temperature dips, we see a lot more people coming in for a meal or a bed. Through the help of our generous readers, our outreach programs are able to make a difference in so many peoples lives. This time of year blankets, warm clothes, and hot meals are delivered to those in need. Below are just some of the things we need- both services and donations- thank you in advance for your generosity! Homeless Voice Newspaper Staff Publisher Sean Cononie Editor in Chief Mark Targett Executive Editor Sara Targett Photos Lois Cross Contributing Editors Margo Poulson Jamie Kisner www.HomelessVoice.org/contact WORK FROM HOME EARN COMMISSION MAKE YOUR OWN HOURS RECEIVE RESIDUAL INCOME The Homeless Voice is expanding and needs to sell ads! If you have sales experience and are ready to be your own boss, call today! 954-924-3571 Volunteer Reporters Wanted! Email Sara NOTESFROMSARA@aol.com * Carmen Cononie * Mary Summers * Cassandra Wilson * Charlene Duarte * Rusty Columbo * Devon Bailey & Family * Maria Dragon * Vemonda Lane & Family * Charlie * Mr. Mike * Tiffany * Dvora * Ed Giampietro * Kristan David Perez * Tommy & Joe * Geralyn * Little Ryan * Earnest Bowens & Family * Ed & Ruth * Rudy * Lisa * John McLean * Darren Cathy’s Prayer List To add a name please call 954-410-6275, no monetary donations needed Please Donate Gift Cards from THE Home Depot or Lowes Call 855-410-6275 Feed Our Sheep To make a donation 954-924-3571 We need Publix gift cards! Please help feed our COLD guests! The Homeless Voice January 2012 Our Homeless Voice readers: The Homeless Voice January 2012 4 Couch to 5K in 9 Weeks! (in time for our 5K!) Workout 1 Workout 2 Workout 3 Brisk five-minute warmup walk. Then alternate 60 seconds of jogging and 90 seconds of walking for a total of 20 minutes. Brisk five-minute warmup walk. Then alternate 60 seconds of jogging and 90 seconds of walking for a total of 20 minutes. Brisk five-minute warmup walk. Then alternate 60 seconds of jogging and 90 seconds of walking for a total of 20 minutes. Brisk five-minute warmup walk. Then alternate 90 seconds of jogging and two minutes of walking for a total of 20 minutes. Brisk five-minute warmup walk. Then alternate 90 seconds of jogging and two minutes of walking for a total of 20 minutes. Brisk five-minute warmup walk. Then alternate 90 seconds of jogging and two minutes of walking for a total of 20 minutes. Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then do two repetitions of the following: •Jog 200 yards (or 90 seconds) •Walk 200 yards (or 90 seconds) •Jog 400 yards (or 3 minutes) •Walk 400 yards (or three minutes) Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then do two repetitions of the following: •Jog 200 yards (or 90 seconds) •Walk 200 yards (or 90 seconds) •Jog 400 yards (or 3 minutes) •Walk 400 yards (or three minutes) Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then do two repetitions of the following: •Jog 200 yards (or 90 seconds) •Walk 200 yards (or 90 seconds) •Jog 400 yards (or 3 minutes) •Walk 400 yards (or three minutes) Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then: •Jog 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes) •Walk 1/8 mile (or 90 seconds) •Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes) •Walk 1/4 mile (or 2-1/2 minutes) •Jog 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes) •Walk 1/8 mile (or 90 seconds) •Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes) Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then: •Jog 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes) •Walk 1/8 mile (or 90 seconds) •Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes) •Walk 1/4 mile (or 2-1/2 minutes) •Jog 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes) •Walk 1/8 mile (or 90 seconds) •Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes) Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then: •Jog 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes) •Walk 1/8 mile (or 90 seconds) •Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes) •Walk 1/4 mile (or 2-1/2 minutes) •Jog 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes) •Walk 1/8 mile (or 90 seconds) •Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes) Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then: •Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes) •Walk 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes) •Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes) •Walk 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes) •Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes) Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then: •Jog 3/4 mile (or 8 minutes) •Walk 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes) •Jog 3/4 mile (or 8 minutes) Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then jog two miles (or 20 minutes) with no walking. Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then: •Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes) •Walk 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes) •Jog 3/4 mile (or 8 minutes) •Walk 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes) •Jog 1/2 mile (or 5 minutes) Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then: •Jog 1 mile (or 10 minutes) •Walk 1/4 mile (or 3 minutes) •Jog 1 mile (or 10 minutes) Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then jog 2-1/4 miles (or 22 minutes) with no walking. Week 7 Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then jog 2.5 miles (or 25 minutes). Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then jog 2.5 miles (or 25 minutes). Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then jog 2.5 miles (or 25 minutes). Week 8 Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then jog 2.75 miles (or 28 minutes). Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then jog 2.75 miles (or 28 minutes). Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then jog 2.75 miles (or 28 minutes). Week 9 Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then jog 3 miles (or 30 minutes). Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then jog 3 miles (or 30 minutes). The final workout! Congratulations! Brisk five-minute warmup walk, then jog 3 miles (or 30 minutes). Week 1 Week 2 Our beginner’s running schedule has helped thousands of new runners get off the couch and onto the roads, running 3 miles in just two months. Week 3 By Josh Clark, The Active Network, Inc. Too many people have been turned off of running simply by trying to start off too fast. Their bodies rebel, and they wind up miserable, wondering why anyone would possibly want to do this to themselves. Week 4 You should ease into your running program gradually. In fact, the beginners’ program we outline here is less of a running regimen than a walking and jogging program. The idea is to transform you from couch potato to runner, getting you running three miles (or 5K) on a regular basis in just two months. It’s easy to get impatient, and you may feel tempted to skip ahead in the program, but hold yourself back. Don’t try to do more, even if you feel you can. If, on the other hand, you find the program too strenuous, just stretch it out. Don’t feel pressured to continue faster than you’re able. Repeat weeks if needed and move ahead only when you feel you’re ready. Week 5 A few minutes each week Each session should take about 20 or 30 minutes, three times a week. That just happens to be the same amount of moderate exercise recommended by numerous studies for optimum fitness. This program will get you fit. (Runners who do more than this amount are doing it for more than fitness, and before long you might find yourself doing the same as well). Be sure to space out these three days throughout the week to give yourself a chance to rest and recover between efforts. And don’t worry about how fast you’re going. Running faster can wait until your bones are stronger and your body is fitter. For now focus on gradually increasing the time or distance you run. Week 6 Run for time, or run for distance There are two ways to follow this program, to measure your runs by time or by distance. Either one works just as well, choose the option that seems easiest for you to keep track of. If you go with the distance option, and you are not using a track to measure the distances, just estimate. It’s not important to have the distances absolutely exact. Before setting out, make sure to precede each session with a five-minute warm-up walk or jog. Be sure to stretch both before and after. 5 Cynthia Waters Part III Final story; Part II “We Give You Thanks On This Day, O Lord!” November 2011, page 7; Part I “I Trusted You Through My Journey” March 2007 “Custody litigation frequently becomes a vehicle whereby batterers attempt to extend or maintain their control and authority over the abused parents after separation… Be aware that many perpetrators of domestic violence are facile manipulators, presenting themselves as caring, cooperative parents and casting the abused parent as a diminished, conflict-inciting, impulsive or over-protective parent.” Goelman, DM Lehrman, et al (1996). The impact of domestic violence on your legal practice: A lawyer’s handbook. Washington DC: ABA Commission on Domestic Violence. Before I left, Sean called me into his office and asked, “How are you feeling?” I replied, “I’m ok so far.” He said, “It’s going to be weird for a while, but you will get used to it.” I started crying and said, “Yes! You are absolutely right. It is weird. I haven’t seen them since December 16, 1998. So much has happened. So many years have passed. Jessica said her dad and his wife had invited me over for Thanksgiving Dinner. I informed her I am not able to do that. Jessica said she understood. She said they would just have Thanksgiving Lunch in lieu of Thanksgiving Dinner.” I arrived Thanksgiving Day. FIRST DAY: Ring, ring. DEREK: “Mom where are you?” I guess Jessica and I do not have to pick Derek up in Denver in our pajamas. ME: “I am standing outside of baggage claim near the parking lot. Where are you two?” DEREK: “We see you, Mom.” Wow! My daughter, Jessica, is 18 years old, and my son, Derek, is 20 years old. She hops out of the driver’s seat with a smile on her face. She’s absolutely beautiful! She’s driving. We hug such a tight, loving hug. Derek is getting out of the passenger side. He’s smiling. How handsome he is! He’s ssssoooo tall… both of them. We hug such a tight, loving hug. We have so much to do, so much to talk about, and off we go! Derek, the typical brother, makes fun of his sister’s driving on the way to my hotel. The conversation moved from the plan for the whole weekend, to Jessica’s driving, to the beautiful countryside, to Jessica’s driving, to are you dating anyone, to Jessica’s driving, and to “oh my gosh! I need gas NOW: the orange light is on!” They carry my bags, walk me up to my room, and catch-up before Thanksgiving dinner at Jessica’s friend’s house, Bryan. Bryan takes our first picture of the three of us together. He suggested we step onto the balcony since the Sun was setting to complete the Kodak moment. As Derek, Jessica, and I stepped onto the balcony, we heard “click.” We three turned around with Bryan waving and laughing as he walked away because he had locked the three of us out in 50 degree weather. Whew! That’s cold for this native Floridian! He didn’t lock us out too long! At the hotel Jessica showed me some class and family photos of them over the years. These photos were nice to see. We hugged each other, said “I love you very much,” smiled, and looked forward to tomorrow. We had a wonderful first day. SECOND DAY: Merry Christmas Derek and Jessica! A box for each filled with gifts from the heart of your Mother. A day of Christmas shopping with my children and their friend, Stephanie, on Black Friday searching for that unique gift for their family and friends. We laughed, talked, acted silly, and ate: we established a level of comfort between us that somewhat eased the 13 years we had spent apart. It seemed Derek and Jessica wanted to hear about good memories. I reminded Derek when he was about 7 that Jessica and I polished his left fingernails pink. We did not remove it. The next morning we were late for his soccer practice of which team photos were being taken. He was hysterical, “Mom! The guys are going to laugh.” ME: “They won’t see. Just place your right hand over your left hand in the photo.” Fire out! As we browsed through the dresses I reminded Jessica that when she was about 3 her decision to buy a dress was contingent upon how much it mushroomed out as she held her hands out and twirled repeatedly. Their faces lit up, and we all laughed endlessly. My children bought me a digital picture frame that holds up to 4,000 photos as my Christmas gift. After completing our day of shopping, Jessica informed me that she needed to drop Steph off at her car so she could join us later for dinner in Denver. I was not aware her car was parked at my ex-husband’s house – the kids’ father. I never felt as uncomfortable as I did at that moment. I said nothing. We swung into the driveway and swung out. On the way to Denver for dinner, we had a wonderful conversation talking girl talk..that talk we had never had for 13 years. We talked about boys, dating, vehicles, her driving, college, work, concerns she may have, etc. Suddenly, I grabbed her dash and screamed, “AAAAAAhhhhhhhhhh! I am freaking out not because of your driving but just because I am in a vehicle and we’re going faster than a walk, a bicycle, or a bus that stops every 15 – 25 yards: I am just not accustomed to it because my license is suspended! I don’t drive. I can’t remember the last time I was in a vehicle.” She and I laughed together. Derek was riding with his friend Stephanie who was showing us the way. That evening at the hotel finally came some questions about my marriage to their Father. DEREK: “What happened between you and dad?” ME: “Have you asked him what happened? Would it solve anything to hear my side of what happened?” DEREK: “Yes I asked him two weeks ago. I want to hear your We laughed, talked, acted silly, and ate: we established a level of comfort between us that somewhat eased the 13 years we had spent apart. The Homeless Voice January 2012 Want a divorce to end the domestic violence? Have children as well? side. He told me he ‘only’ hit you twice. And the time when you were pregnant he just wanted to talk to you, and you fell down, and he tried to catch you.” ME: “Is that what he told you? No Derek and Jessica. Your Father hit me more than two times.” Derek wanted to know more. Jessica was quiet. DEREK: “I am not going to take sides. I want to hear your side of what happened.” I informed them that I do not want them to take sides and began describing to them how their Father came home one day about six months into the marriage and asked me some sort of question. I replied but I guess their Father did not like the response, and a hand came across my head. That evening was the beginning of the physical abuse. I informed them that the abuse intensified to the point I would be slung into Derek’s crib with him in it. I informed them that their Father had slammed me up against the wall with his hand wrapped so tight against my neck that I could not breathe: he was choking me. He said it with such hatred, “I just want to kill you!” ME: “When your Father hit me that action did not motivate me to be intimate. Every time we argued was a hit.” DEREK: “Dad said while he was in Turkey you opened up bank accounts and took his money. And you waited for him to go to Turkey before you filed for a divorce; that you planned it.” ME: “I legally cannot open arbitrary accounts on behalf of someone else unless I have that person’s signature of which I did not. I did not plan the divorce. I wanted time to think about our relationship, the marriage, the direction, the past,… we had you two. Once I saw no hope in our relationship because of the history with the hitting and verbal insults I felt a divorce was the only solution. I hired an attorney, got a restraining order, opened up my own bank account, closed all credit accounts, and your father opened up his own bank account after I informed him I was seeking a divorce. I informed him of my decision while he was in Turkey. Your Father and I went to marriage counseling, and he thought it was ‘a joke..that we could work it out all on our own.’ He talked more about my mother in the session. I informed the Counselor he needed to attend marriage counseling with my mother and not me.” DEREK: “What happened between you and your mom?” ME: “My parents and I had been having problems for a few years prior to 1997. I was getting my second divorce (Continued on pg 6) Lace up those Sneakers! March 24th, 2012 2nd Annual Race to End Homelessness Sponsors Needed! HomelessVoice.org Open Registration Starts Jan. 2012 7 Want a divorce to end the domestic violence? Have children as well? (Continued from pg 5) and my parents were ignoring me as a Mother and as a woman. I guess my family thought I was the problem or something was wrong with me. Your grandmother was signing for certified mail your Father was mailing to their house. Your Father for some reason was sending your gifts to your grandparent’s home via certified mail: he felt compelled to send everything with a return receipt requested. Your grandfather and I were not agreeing upon how to discipline the two of you either when they babysat. These events culminated with your grandparents doing whatever they wanted regarding the two of you without my consent and blatantly ignoring me as your Mother and as a woman prompted me to tell your grandmother off. Then I relocated to Fort Lauderdale because of my job and soon thereafter your dad continued with filing more motions in Court this time for custody. I chose not to show up to the Court appearances. You and Jessica probably have some friends whose parents are always going back and forth to Court and always arguing. I chose not to be ‘that’ parent: I do not fight smiled, and looked forward to tomorrow. over human beings. …and here we are today. The act FOURTH DAY: Derek leaves today. We greeted each other of arguing takes two not one. Because of my deciwith a hug and a kiss and said, “Good morning. I love you very sion not to appear in Court and fight and argue and to much.” Before we left my hotel, Jessica gave me a bag conlet the cards fall how they may, the Judge suspended taining select letters, more pictures, and gifts that maybe Derek my driver’s license, gave me no visitation, and threw and she would be able to give to me one day: today was that me in jail.” DEREK: “How many times have you day. In that bag were two pair of Christmas earrings (a pair of been in jail?” ME: “3.” DEREK: “How long did you Christmas wreaths and a pair of Christmas stockings) that she stay?” ME: “Which time? My first incarceration was had bought in elementary school and November 18, 2001 through had saved for me all of these years. January 21, 2002. My secI have been unable to She gave me letters she had written ond was for one week about over the years and had kept…a few April 2004. My third was were mailed and most were not. Her maintain employment. I have for 24 hours about 2006. I letters wanted to know if I was marhave lost track.” DEREK: “How was jail?” ME: “It’s repeatedly been incarcerated causing ried, if I had other children, to tell me it was her or Derek’s birthday, if I was jail. I was extradited up to “wondering how old she was,” she Milton, FL. Upon release wished I could come visit her “like repeated evictions ultimately to I had no money. I walked normal moms,” what’s my house to the nearest truck stop. like, will she ever see me again, do I I hitched a ride on an 18 miss her, etc. For you divorced nonremain homeless. wheeler going to Jax. The custodial parents who do not live in truck driver told me he’d get the area that your children live in, you know what I am talking me a ride south to Fort Lauderdale, and he did. I got about. Some were mailed to an address I had been evicted into a fight in jail.” Upon uttering that sentence was from. I did not see any letters from Derek. The letter that made the first time my daughter perked up and spoke, “You my heart sink to that never-ending place that makes you want got into a fight?” ME: “Yes.” We talked about the to curl up in a corner and cry forever read: twenty something year old being extradited to Central Dear Santa, Florida, and how she was trying to start something I really have been wanting for this a long time. with someone, and I defended myself. ME: “When But there is one thing that I can’t have and, well would I got back to Fort Lauderdale I found an eviction like you to bring it. sign on my door.” DEREK: “We both know how Let my mom call Please! he can be. He’s pushed me once, but I deserved it. Mom, why didn’t you pay the money? We needed Love, the money!” ME: “I have been paying him when I Jessica can…between jail, evictions, losing everything, and living in the homeless shelter…I pay when I can. I P. S. do not want you to take sides. Your Father has AL Hope the raindeer like the carrots. WAYS perceived I have been doing nothing but tryDerek was lying on one bed in the room, and Jessica was siting to keep the two of you from him Day One you ting on the edge of the other bed. I looked up at Derek, and he two were born.” During the divorce and for years just shook his head yes. I looked at Jessica and she sat on the thereafter his pursuit in Court to be heard, his purbed smiling. I was absolutely speechless and exhaled my last suit for custody after the divorce, and his pursuit for child support monies was incessant. I have been unable to maintain employment. I have repeatedly been incarcerated causing repeated evictions ultimately to remain homeless. Jessica showed me more photos of her and her brother. They kept talking about how their Father kept “framing or boxing” their hairstyles around their faces. Jessica informed me that Lori, her Mom, helped her start wearing bras because her Father just didn’t realize it was time. I replied the politically correct response saying, “That’s great that you had someone there to assist you in such a manner!” We hugged each other, said “I love you very much,” smiled, and looked forward to tomorrow. THIRD DAY: Temperature today was high 42 degrees and low with wind chill was -11. Wow! This Florida girl required 4 layers of clothing which were peeled off as the day warmed. Who needs a coat in South Florida? We greeted each other with a hug and a kiss and said, “Good morning. I love you very much!” The plan on this sunny day is sightseeing: Garden of the Gods and a ride on the COG Rail up to Pike’s Peak! Only a few Kodak moments were captured while sipping on hot chocolate at the top of Pike’s Peak. We froze together, laughed together, and posed together with the help of others. To end the day, we chose to see the movie “Immortals” in 3-D. We had a great time. At the hotel, we hugged each other, said “I love you very much,” ~ ~ breath. What could I say except, “Thank you. I love you two ssssoooo much! Are you ready to go?” They both said, “Yes.” After experiencing the domestic violence during the marriage, my visitation stripped from me, and the never ending pursuit of their Father in the Courts, I wanted to visit with my children and call them but was unable to call and risk their Father picking up the phone and continue the abuse. The incarcerations, job losses, and evictions certainly precluded me from having the money to visit them and stay telephonically connected. We made our way to the Denver Airport, had lunch, took some more pictures, and said our goodbyes to Derek. Jessica and I found Derek as he was taking his shoes off and approaching the baggage scanner. We yelled to the top of our lungs, “D-E-R-E-K! W-E L-O-V-E Y-O-U!” and waved and smiled. He shook his head as if we were wearing pajamas. His sister was right! He WAS embarrassed! Jessica and I just walked around at various malls and Garden of the Gods talking and taking pictures. We didn’t have to spend money: we were just “being” together talking and enjoying each other’s company. We joined Jessica’s friends for dinner and ice cream. At the hotel, we hugged each other, said “I love you very much,” smiled, and did not look forward to tomorrow: I was leaving. FIFTH DAY: We greeted each other with a hug and a kiss and said, “Good morning. I love you very much.” Jessica brought the digital picture frame filled with photos of her and her brother…her hands were shaking as she plugged it in. I asked, “Are you ok?” She said, “Yes.” The mood this morning seemed solemn. As we walked downstairs to the hotel restaurant for breakfast, I said, “It’s going to be ssssooo exciting honey. This trip is the start of so many future trips and wonderful adventures together! We’ll be calling each other up saying, ‘Hey let’s meet in New York to see the Statute of Liberty and sightsee’ or ‘Let’s see Niagara Falls’ or ‘Let’s go here. Let’s go there.’ ” We laughed together. She stopped shaking! Mission accomplished! We said our goodbyes at the sidewalk of the airport hugging each other tightly, and then we began to cry saying, “I love you ssssoooo much, Jessica!” Jessica replied, “I don’t want you to go Mommy! I love you, too.” She drove off to school for her 10 a.m. class. I entered the Colorado Springs Airport on my way back to work at the homeless shelter. As I sat waiting for my plane to arrive, I discovered why she had been shaking at the hotel. The emotions that surfaced after such a wonderful five day visit with children I gave birth to and have not seen for 13 years were overwhelming. Thank goodness I bought waterproof mascara because the tears fell so quickly I was unable to wipe all of them away with my shaky hands. So much was accomplished in this one trip. My children and I look forward to our future adventures together. They seem to have understood my philosophy of not fighting over human beings and not having had the money that it takes to contest the Order granted in their Father’s favor by the Florida Court. Time will tell. Spotlight on ... Think you’re garbage Act like trash Discarded Crumpled Crushed and mashed Liz Brady Broken people get recycled No... it’s not too late Local Teacher/Writer Entertainment Turns addiction Fantasy Turns life To fiction Broken dreams can be recycled Don’t fall prey to “fate” The Bully There is a little voice inside A bully Relentless Merciless Cruel Instead of fighting back You take it Believe it Agree It is time For a revolution When you no longer cower The berating will stop You can tell the bully To go back to hell You don’t live there anymore You can give him Compassion no one ever showed Heal him with kindness You can stop reacting Ignore him until he learns He’s wasting his time But you can’t keep encouraging him You hardly ever see full rainbows Half-rainbows are smile bringers Unexpected while driving Light rain clearing They wink at you Give you a precious little moment Make you feel the world is beautiful Life is a gift But our eyes rarely absorb the full picture Like the ones we used to draw as children Years of pollution Block the light Filter the colors Stop us from seeing the entire spectrum Perhaps we could take part in that clean-up The one we’ve been thinking about joining Work together and find ways to clear pollutants Detoxify Cleanse It’s time to reveal rows of magnificent multicolored light Glorious expressions of truth and beauty Pure radiant energy Shining through overcast raincloud days The skies are clearing We’re all full rainbows Or pretending You don’t hear him Harassment will follow you It will get worse Will cause destruction Someone or something will break Choose a path to healing Make a plan Be brave All public institutions Implemented anti-bullying policies Make one Follow it Reclaim your power You deserve the right to be happy You deserve the right to be at peace To piece together What you’ve done right Where you’ve gone wrong Who you have hurt How you can do better Forgive yourself Forgive the bully And for your own sake Stop beating yourself up Face your inner rage Self-loathing Masked by smiles Make-up Clothing Save yourself before the planet You’re more than what you hate Stalk yourself For treasures buried Time to lose The shame You’ve carried Tell your self that you deserve No more inner debate Your laundered karma Still will bleed Even washed on gentle speed But broken people get recycled Believe It’s not Too late The Homeless Voice January 2012 The Homeless Voice January 2012 6 The Homeless Voice January 2012 8 Savings Experiment: New Year’s Resolutions By C. Lazarus As you ring in the New Year, you’ll probably make some personal resolutions to lose weight, volunteer more, and clean behind (and not just around) the furniture. (That last one may just be me!) These are all sound goals, but don’t forget to add saving money to the list. Learning how to save money will offer you peace of mind, so you’ll basically be checking off two resolutions for the price of one. Take Back Your Expenses Considering that most of us are part of the 99%, it’s critical to budget. It’s also as simple as setting up and checking your Facebook account. The beginning of the year is the perfect time to start budgeting: If you begin now, it’ll be easy as the year goes on to track your expenses and make more conscious decisions about what you spend. There are a number of ways to budget. There’s also an app for it; in fact, there are several. For starters, tryTipB or Mint. Mint enables you to upload your bank, credit, loan, and retirement accounts to help you categorize your transactions. It’s also free. Some credit cards, like American Express (AXP), provide tools to see where you’re spending money. Of course, you can always set up a budget on a Microsoft (MSFT) Excel spreadsheet, or the old fashioned way, with a pen and paper. 20% 50% 30% Financial experts recommend creating a pie chart of your spending ratios. The basic rule of thumb is to cut your expenses into a 50/30/20 budget, divvying your monthly household income into essentials, savings, and splurges. To get started, add up your total monthly household income, including your salary (after taxes) and any other sources such as child support, tenants, consulting and freelance gigs, and even selling stuff on eBay (EBAY). Next, you’ll need to add up your essentials. Then break down your expenses. Fifty percent of your total income will go to basic necessities such as rent, utilities, transportation, groceries, health insurance and student loans. After you account for these essential items, set aside thirty percent of your income for what you enjoy doing, such as buying seasonal basketball tickets or having cocktails with friends. Sometimes it’s difficult to On Spirituality Dear friends, a very merry and blessed Christmas time to you all. In my last article I said I would be reporting on the specific lives of some of the good folks who live at the shelter, and how your generosity positively impacts their lives. I am going to put that on hold for a month as it is Christmas time. A time of the year when many people feel a certain closeness to their creator. God chose to be one of us and came down from heaven to prove His great love for us. To live as a man and to give up everything, even His life, to save us. This is the Christmas story in a nutshell. It amazes me how every year at Christmas we are so bombarded with all things shopping. I mean I am not amazed that this happens; rather I am amazed that we all fall for it. Black Friday is downright scary. Could the Lord have known what Christmas would turn into while lying in the manger? To give another a gift is a beautiful thing, so Christ like, so loving. How did it become so ugly? I am not in favor of abandoning the practice of gift giving, but wouldn’t it be interesting to see what Christmas might be like if no-one bought anything at all. No tree no lights no lawn decorations nothing at all. Do determine what goes into this column: You may need internet access if you work from home, but do you need cable? If it’s merely a burning desire, the item is considered inessential. Most of your purchases are inessential -- even clothes, gym memberships, gifts for friends, and vacations. Last, but not least, find out what the remaining twenty-percent of your total income is, and siphon off that amount for savings and emergency funds. It’s easier to save money if you deposit it directly into a savings account as soon as you get it. There’s no need to tempt yourself, and that money can accrue interest, so you’ll actually grow your savings. Budgeting is a lot like dieting: Everyone has different needs and approaches it with different constraints, challenges, and choices to make. Some folks need to weigh in every day, others weigh themselves a couple times a week (or even month), and there are those who don’t need an external reminder. You may want to keep a diary at first to see how you’re spending. Initially you might find yourself obsessed or hesitant, until thinking frugally becomes second nature. And you might fall off the wagon. But generally speaking, the more disciplined you are, the easier it will get. It’s a critical skill to master, and, luckily, a straightforward one. If only winning the lotto was this simple. Homeless advocate Fitzpatrick to be inducted into MLK Hall of Fame (Continued from pg 1) you think we would focus more on the birth of Jesus or just forget about Him? What does Christmas really mean to you, and to me? I hope and pray that it truly does bring us closer to our Lord. If lights and bells and wonderful Christmas music and of course the giving and receiving of gifts help us to connect Jesus as the reason for the season than the more the merrier. May the peace of the child Jesus be yours, Deacon Bob He brought signs to City Hall. He cursed at commissioners during meetings. He ran for office. In October, the commission voted to lift the limit in favor of a three-hour window in which soup kitchens, namely St. Francis House, can serve as many as possible. Fitzpatrick and others were arrested in Orlando in June for feeding people in defiance of that city’s law barring the distribution of food to more than 25 people in a public park without a permit. “It was one of his best tactics, going to jail,” Fitzpatrick said of King. “It’s as American as apple pie to fight illegal laws such as he did.” Last year, Long was on hand as the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial was dedicated on the National Mall, making King the first civilian to be honored with a monument there. He called the event “humbling,” even more so than the inauguration of the first black president, Barack Obama, in 2009. “We’ve had some great Americans,” he said. “Unless they were a president, they didn’t find a space on the National Mall.” Still, Long said it is important to have a number of events locally, not just a single march or church service, to remember King because many people alive today were born well after the civil rights movement ended. Joy Bauer Green Tea-Preliminary research suggests that EGCG and other catechins in tea may prevent cartilage from breaking down, possibly helping to preserve joints longer. Omega-3 Fats-A host of studies have demonstrated that omega-3 fish oils can reduce symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Study participants reported greater strength, less fatigue, reduced joint swelling and tenderness, less joint stiffness, and less overall pain. The best foods for omega-3 fatty acids are salmon (wild, fresh or canned), herring, mackerel (not king), sardines, anchovies, rainbow trout, Pacific oysters, flaxseeds (ground and oil), chia seeds, and walnuts. Olive Oil-In addition to healthy monounsaturated fats, olive oil contains a natural compound called oleocanthal which may help prevent arthritis-related inflammation. This compound blocks the same inflammatory pathways as ibuprofen and aspirin, medications commonly used to fight arthritis pain. Carotenes-The carotenoids are a group of powerful antioxidant nutrients found in many fruits and vegetables. The best known is beta carotene (found in foods like cantaloupe, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, carrots, kale, butternut squash, and spinach), but its sister carotenoid, beta-cryptoxanthin, may also reduce the risk of developing inflammation-related disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis. Researchers have found that people who ate diets high in beta-cryptoxanthin were half as likely to develop a form of inflammatory arthritis as those who ate very few. Vitamin C-Vitamin C is one of the nutrients most If you suffer from arthritis, ease your painful symptoms by eating plenty of foods and ingredients that naturally reduce inflammation, such as cherries 4 Tips to Find the Right Charity (Continued from pg 1) Extending Peace and Goodwill into 2012 Donald Brown The further we journey through 2012, the further our actions stray away from the very essence of the Christmas season: “Peace on earth, and good will toward all man!” Thankfully, this is not the case with the people running the Church Of Service And Charity shelter who extend this goodwill to their guests throughout the year. A witness of the COSAC shelter’s graciousness is Patricia Brandt. “I cannot tell you enough how grateful I am to be here! And, I love the staff here, but especially Sean Cononie! I’ve known Sean for about 25 years, since he helped me when I was on the street. I call him ‘Papa.’ He’s such a good man! If anyone doesn’t love him, something’s wrong with them! I also have a best friend here in the shelter. Her name is Rosemarie!” said Brandt. Ms. Brandt has been in the shelter four times in the last two years. However, until 2011, she had never spent a Christmas in a shelter. Nine years ago Patricia Brandt gave herself a gift. She entered a drug rehabilitation program. “The program was designed for a 12 month stay. I stayed for four months. We attended a church service every night! I’ve been clean ever since!” said Brandt. “When I needed help, I tried to seek assistance from three other shelters before coming to COSAC. The other shelters were too strict for me! They prohibit communicating with loved ones. I couldn’t do that, for my boyfriend was incarcerated and they wouldn’t let me write to him! So, I came here instead. They let me correspond with my boyfriend, who has since given his life to Christ!” said Brandt. “Other shelters force the homeless to conform to the shelter’s rules. Not here at COSAC. We do our best to adjust to our guest,” said Editor in Chief Mark Targett. responsible for the health of collagen, a major component of cartilage. In addition, research suggests that people who eat a diet low in vitamin C may have a greater risk of developing some kinds of arthritis. (High-dose vitamin C supplements can actually be harmful for osteoarthritis sufferers, so talk to your doctor about what’s right for you.) Anthocyanins-Anthocyanins are powerful antioxidants that help reduce inflammation by inhibiting production of certain inflammatory chemicals. Some of the best foods for anthocyanins include cherries, blackberries, black currents, blueberries, eggplant, elderberries, raspberries, boysenberries, red and black grapes, strawberries, and plums. Spices: Ginger and Turmeric-Like fruits and vegetables, spices contain beneficial phytonutrients that can have powerful effects on health. Certain spices seem to have anti–inflammatory effects, and therefore should be considered for arthritis treatment. Among the most promising are turmeric — the Asian mustard–yellow spice found in curry — and ginger. Because ginger contains chemicals that work similarly to some anti–inflammatory medications, the benefits of ginger for arthritis pain are not surprising. Get creative: grate fresh ginger into stir fries, steep ginger with tea, or bake healthy ginger muffins. “ Nine years ago Patricia Brandt gave herself a gift. She entered a drug rehabilitation program. ” something you’d want explained.” You can find the IRS list of organizations that lost 501(c)(3) charity status online. 4) Give them a call. Sometimes scammers use the good name of legitimate charities to swindle money, by either copying it or taking a similar name. Never feel rushed or pressured into donating at the door, the red light, the checkout counter, or even over the phone. You can always donate later, after you’ve found official contact information from another source and checked the group out. That’s how Stacy once found a scammer using collection boxes in local stores – they not only copied a real charity’s name, but also its phone number. When he called, Stacy found out they didn’t use boxes – and weren’t even fundraising in his state. Who to trust If you’re not sure about a particular charity, chances are there’s another one doing similar work. For instance, if you want to support veterans, here are five highly rated military/veteran charities from Charity Navigator... * Hope For The Warriors * National Military Family Association * Armed Services YMCA * Veterans of Foreign Wars National Home for Children * Mercy Medical Airlift And here are five cancer-fighting charities with an A rating on CharityWatch… * Cancer Care * Cancer Research Institute * CureSearch * Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center * Prevent Cancer Foundation Both sites have lists of many other categories, from children to animals. Picking from top-rated charities is the quickest way to make sure your money goes to a good cause. You also might want to check out 7 Gift Ideas That Help Charities, and make sure you get credit on your taxes for your good deeds with 5 Tips to Deducting Holiday Giving. The Homeless Voice January 2012 Ingredients to Ease Arthritis Pain 9 The Homeless Voice January 2012 10 Break in La Niña means more cold in South Florida Cancer rates in U.S. keep falling: American Cancer Society By Ken Kaye and Danielle A. Alvarez Wed Jan 4 2012 5:55 PM Blame a break in the La Niña pattern for allowing arctic air to blast through South Florida this week – and likely bringing more cold outbreaks later this month. “It does look like we could see a few more of these cold air masses,” said meteorologist Robert Molleda of the National Weather Service in Miami, on Wednesday. In recent weeks, a trough of low-pressure shifted to the eastern U.S., temporarily opening a pathway for frigid air to trek in our direction from Siberia, Russia. That shift also offset the influence of La Niña, at least temporarily, Molleda said. they recorded temperatures of 28 degrees for about two hours La Niña, best known for nurturing tropical storms in before daybreak. the summer, works to prevent cold fronts from reachAlthough temperatures warmed quickly to the upper 60s on ing Florida during the winter. It does so by keeping Wednesday afternoon, Wednesday night was again expected to the polar jet stream, a fast-moving river of air at upper be chilly, with temperatures in the low to mid 40s. levels of the atmosphere, farther to the north. That prompted Miami-Dade and Broward counties to open Molleda thinks the normal La Niña pattern eventualtheir cold weather shelters. Palm Beach County, however, only ly will shift back and make this opens its shelters when temperatures winter warmer than normal. are forecast fall to at least 40 degrees or December already has been the wind chill is less than 35 degrees for one of the warmest on record least four hours. with temperatures reaching The cold weather might have atThe forecast “didn’t meet our threshinto the 80s on most days. But old,” said Mary Blakeney, assistant he said extremely cold weather caused some crop damage in operations manager for Palm Beach should never be a surprise in County emergency management. January. Palm Beach County, growers The weather service predicted a read“January is our coldest month, ing of about 41 degrees in West Palm and it’s the time of year we’re said; however the extent won’t be Beach and issued an overnight frost admost vulnerable to freezing visory for western Palm Beach County, temperatures,” Molleda said. known for weeks. including Wellington. The advisory is Thursday’s forecast calls for a issued when temperatures could reach cold start with temperatures in near freezing levels and cause damage the low to mid 40s. Then there to plants. should be a quick warm-up On Tuesday night, 268 homeless peowith mostly sunny skies and afternoon temperatures ple took advantage of Broward’s four cold weather shelters; on in the low 70s. Evening lows should be in the upper Monday night it was 168 people, said Michael Wright, admin40s and low 50s. istrator of the county’s Homeless Initiative Partnership. Friday should be a few degrees warmer and by SatBroward Sheriff’s Office Deputy Joe Safonte said he enjoyed urday, conditions should return close to normal, with the brisk weather but is glad it won’t last too long. highs in the mid to upper 70s. Then another cold front “It’s a nice change for a while,” he said, as he picked up cofis expected to arrive by late next week. Whether it will fee and sweets at a Dunkin’ Donuts on Broward Boulevard in be as strong as the one this week remains unknown. Fort Lauderdale Wednesday morning. Although not quite as cold as forecast, the mercury Added Virginia Mikula, of Sunrise: “I guess we need it for a plunged into the upper 30s and low 40s across South change. It’s usually hot and humid.” Florida on Wednesday morning. Some pockets in Paul Kotsopoulos, who was south Miami-Dade County and far west Palm Beach visiting Fort Lauderdale from County saw freezing temperatures. Toronto, said he can’t wait for Molleda said because the cold air amassed in Sibeconditions to warm up “so we can ria before it made its march across Canada and the take the kids to the beach. I’d like United States, it was chillier than usual. to go back with some color.” “The farther north the source region of the air, the Kotsopoulos said his wallet also more potential it has to be colder,” he said. is feeling the effects. Asked what The cold weather might have caused some crop damtourists do in a cold South Floriage in Palm Beach County, growers said; however the da, he replied, “shop.” extent won’t be known for weeks. Some growers said Cancer death rates are continuing to fall, dropping by 1.8 percent per year in men and 1.6 percent per year in women between 2004 and 2008, according to the American Cancer Society’s annual report on cancer statistics released this month. Advances in cancer screening and treatment have prevented more than a million total deaths from cancer since the early 1990s, according to the report. But the influential cancer group said new cases of seven less-common cancers rose in the past decade, suggesting more could be done in America’s 40-year war on cancer. This year, the cancer group projects 1,638,910 people will be newly diagnosed with cancer and 577,190 people will die from it. “The big news this year is that cancer deaths are still going down,” said Dr. Raymond DuBois, provost and executive vice president at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. DuBois said while the rate of decline is small, it is significant because it has continued to fall each year for the past 10 years of available data. Between 1999 and 2008, cancer death rates fell by more than 1 percent per year in men and women in every racial and ethnic group except for American Indians/Alaska Natives, among whom rates have held steady. “It’s not hitting the ball out of the park, but it had been going up several years prior to that. It’s a sign now that it is on the decline,” DuBois said in a telephone interview. The biggest declines in the latest report were among black men, where cancer deaths fell by 2.4 percent, and Hispanic men, where rates fell by 2.3 percent. Death rates fell in all four of the most common cancers, lung, colon, breast and prostate, with lung cancer accounting for nearly 40 percent of the total drop in men and breast cancer account for 34 percent of the total decline in women. Despite improvements in the most common cancers, a companion report found an increase in cases of several cancers over the past decade. These included cancers of the pancreas, liver, thyroid, and kidney and melanoma, as well as esophageal cancer and certain types of throat cancers associated with human papillomavirus or HPV infection. That report found cases of HPV-related throat cancer and melanoma rose only in whites, and rates of esophageal cancer rose in both whites and Hispanics. 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