Hormonal Balance Seminar

by Ching Schueddig

Wednesday January 26

6-8 PM

Wallace Family Practice Center

3400 Lee Blvd

Suite 108

Lehigh Acres, Fl 33971

Speaker Dr Tasha Wallace

RSVP: 239-417-0203

Our bodies produce estrogen and progesterone during our menstruating years.
Estrogen’s primary role is cellular growth and division. It grows good cells and bad cells. Bad cell growth that clumps together over time becomes a cyst, tumor or cancer. Estrogen grows our endometrial lining and prepares it for egg implantation. Estrogen is like gasoline in our cars – it makes things “go”.
Progesterone puts the brakes on the estrogen. It balances out the estrogen. It is the hormone that sustains pregnancy.

If we lack progesterone, we are left with unopposed estrogen. By the age of 35, more than 50% of American women are estrogen dominant. Women who lack progesterone have an approximately 80% increase in the risk of developing breast cancer.

I’ll now read to you a list of conditions that can be caused by having too much estrogen and not enough progesterone, from Dr. John Lee’s book “What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Menopause.” As I read the list, think of the people you know who suffer from these symptoms. You may be able to help them by telling them about what you learn today.

Krenz Travel: Spa Vacations

By Leslie Krenzelak  

Vacationing With Body, Mind and Spirit.

You're the kind of person who enjoys the senses, who wants to be pampered, or who wants to make a healthy lifestyle a part of your everyday life. You take candle-lit baths (or wish you could), enjoy aromatherapy and appreciate the stress-relieving effects of a good
massage. When it comes time to vacation, you're not just thinking sun and surf but health, diet and a mud bath! You are exactly the kind of person who may want to consider treating yourself to a spa vacation.

The word spa, taken from the name of the famous mineral springs in Spa, Belgium, has become an all-inclusive term for a commercial establishment with facilities for exercising, bathing, and treatment. The range of facilities and services available at spas run the gamut from what you might find at the local YMCA to high-end specialty spas, where your entire body-mind is completely immersed in the experience for hours at a time. The former offers fitness and health assessments, body composition analysis, personal training, physiotherapy, gymnasiums with state-of-the-art equipment, and an outdoor pool for activities like volleyball and aqua aerobics,while the latter offers a full menu of services from massage to body wraps to herbal saunas.

The scent of lavender lingers in the air. The soothing sound of softly flowing water swirls gently into your ears. Warm ginger tea tingles your taste buds. A soft robe rubs gently across your skin. A spa vacation excites the senses, but the benefits don't stop there. There's also the luxury of experiencing the long lost art of relaxation and revitalization,
with no end to additional health benefits. The toxic environment and diet of the modern world exposes us to pollutants and substances that accumulate in our body tissue and bloodstream. Some spas specialize in treatments that can eliminate toxins through a combination of massage, sauna, oils, mild fasting and colon therapy. Don't be intimidated though. Nothing is more important on a spa vacation than reminding yourself that the experience is all about you! After all, sometimes simply a good sweat is all you need to feel healthier. You can do as much or as little as you'd like to improve the feeling of your own body, and you can relax knowing you'll be under the eye of skilled therapists and nutritionists who have your best interests and desires in mind.

Two major decisions in planning a spa vacation are 1) what experiences you want from the visit, and 2) where you want to go. A wide variety of spa options are available; some focus on your diet, others on physical activity, relaxation and pampering, and/or your spiritual health. Some spas are very structured in their approach to treatments, while others allow for individual variation. Those spas focusing on diet and exercise are typically the most structured in their disciplines and scheduling. Your goals for a spa vacation will largely dictate the type of spa you choose and your willingness to forgo flexibility during your stay. Destination? Have you always wanted to visit New York? Miami? Los Angeles? What about someplace more exotic? India? Budapest? Let your imagination roam. Spas are available around the world, allowing you to find a vacation just about anywhere your heart desires. Krenz Travel can provide you with details on dozens of spa vacations and the meals and the amenities provided by each. Most spas will offer week-long packages that include meals, activities and accommodations. In some instances,steeply discounted airfares are also included.

If you are on a budget or only have time for a short trip – consider a stay at a hotel famous for its spa treatments, and you can recreate the luxury of a dedicated spa vacation on your own. Your travel agent can recommend hotels with specialized spas in most locations and may even be able to obtain special rates for you. With a spa pass, a few therapy appointments lined up, room service, and several visits to the pool, hot tub and gym, you can enjoy a few days in near heaven on your own schedule.

Upon arriving at a typical spa, you'll be greeted by a staff member who will assign your accommodations and can give you a brief tour,explaining how your time will be structured and how to prepare and dress for any planned activities. For most body services, you will
undress completely, but your therapist will allow you to disrobe in private and will keep your body draped in sheets or towels, only exposing areas as needed for the treatment. During wet services such as body scrubs, body wraps and hydro-therapies, you will not be draped, in order to reap maximum benefits – but swimsuits are usually optional. Depending on the
character of the spa, many aspects of treatment can be modified to your taste and budget.
Most spas have overarching dietary philosophies, and your diet during your stay will be of
particular importance. Some serve alcohol and caffeine but many do not. Again, make sure to match your personal preferences closely to the character of the spa so you'll have the experienceyou expect and will get the most from your visit.

Spa Etiquette

Before entering a shared pool, always shower. When enjoying the dry sauna or steam room, sit on your towel and wear the sandals provided by the spa. Customs vary in terms of whether or not to wear a swimsuit in wet facilities. Most people enjoy wet rooms in the nude with a wrapped towel, but if modesty is an issue, wearing a swimsuit is generally acceptable as well, and you can always ask about a specific spa's policies in advance.
Share public space respectfully with other spa goers. Smoking is prohibited at most spas. Turn off your cell phone when you enter a spa, or better yet, leave it in the room with the rest of your valuables – or at home, so you can truly relax.

Tipping is common practice. Some spas will include tips in their package prices. Ask the spa staff or your tour operator if you're unsure. The rule of thumb in spas is 10%-15% of the cost of service, or about $10.00 to $15.00 for a one-hour treatment.

Preparations

In general, check the weather before you go so you know what to pack –
and pack with your comfort in mind. Depending on your spa's activities,
you may need to bring a swimsuit, workout wear, a jacket, running or
walking shoes, hiking boots, and casual shoes. At some spas, clothing and
equipment are available for purchase and a robe and sandals are usually
provided at no additional charge. You might find that you can pack fewer
toiletries, since the dressing rooms of many spas have razors, soap,
shampoo, skin lotion and deodorant. If you're going on an international trip, a valid passport and sometimes a visa is required – make sure to obtain these items well in advance of your travel dates. To protect against baggage loss, trip cancellation or interruption and unexpected health emergencies, consider purchasing travel
insurance. Your travel agent can assist you with these details and any others that will help you relax and prepare for you trip.

One of the most important things you can do before your spa vacation is give yourself a day or two to mentally unwind before leaving. Though this might sound counter-intuitive, since
unwinding is often the whole point of a spa vacation, this time will give your mind a chance to become more open and receptive to the experience. It is often difficult to leave work and
responsibilities behind, but the sooner you start, the more benefits you'll receive from your spa vacation.

So go ahead. Pamper yourself. If you don't do it, who will?

Brand-new Jury Duty Scam

From Margie Tann  iSekurity

Source: ScamBusters.org

Here's a new twist scammers are using to commit identity theft: the jury duty scam. Here's how it works:
The scammer calls claiming to work for the local court and claims you've failed to report for jury duty. He tells you that a warrant has been issued for your arrest.
The victim will often rightly claim they never received the jury duty notification. The scammer then asks the victim for confidential information for "verification" purposes.
Specifically, the scammer asks for the victim's Social Security number, birth date, and sometimes even for credit card numbers and other private information -- exactly what the scammer needs to commit identity theft.
So far, this jury duty scam has been reported in Michigan, Ohio, Texas, Arizona, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Oregon and Washington state.
It's easy to see why this works. The victim is clearly caught off guard, and is understandably upset at the prospect of a warrant being issued for his or her arrest. So, the victim is much less likely to be vigilant about protecting their confidential information.
In reality, court workers will never call you to ask for social security numbers and other private information.
. In fact, most courts follow up via snail mail and rarely, if ever, call prospective jurors.
Action: Never give out your Social Security number, credit card numbers or other personal confidential information when you receive a telephone call.
This jury duty scam is the latest in a series of identity theft scams where scammers use the phone to try to get people to reveal their Social Security number, credit card numbers or other personal confidential information.
It doesn't matter *why* they are calling -- all the reasons are just different variants of the same scam.
Protecting yourself is simple: NEVER give this info out when you receive a phone call.

How to HUMBUG-proof your Holidays

From Margie Tann iSekurity

Source: Better Business Bureau

Don't let the Identity Thief Scrooge steal your holiday cheer. By taking a few simple steps, your holiday season can be filled with joy and peace of mind!

Here's a handy checklist to keep in mind during the holiday season and throughout the year:

Your Holiday Identity Theft Prevention Checklist

Travel Light
When out shopping or enjoying festivities, carry only what you need: your ID, one credit or debit card, medical insurance card, limited number of checks. Consider a neck pouch and carry wallets in front pockets. And NEVER leave your purse or wallet unattended.

Party Wisely
When out celebrating, keep your purse or wallet with you. Do not leave it in the car, in a coat check area or at your table while you dance or visit the restroom. If hosting a party, lock all of your financial and personal identifying information in a safe place-this includes laptop computers. Log off and turn off desktop computers. Always lock your car.

Take Care at the ATM
Go in the bank whenever possible. Only use an ATM in a well-lit area, and do not use an ATM if you see anyone threatening or suspicious hanging around. Keep your receipt in a safe place. NEVER give your ATM card or PIN to anyone else to use.

Protect Your Home
Consider adding lights and radios on timers so that your home always looks occupied. Install motion activated lights outdoors if possible. Turn on outdoor lights after dark. Do not display holiday decorations that block your windows or give burglars a place to hide while breaking in. Always lock your home and garage. Notify your local police department if you are going on vacation. Don't forget to let them know who will be house or pet sitting for you. When leaving home, secure your financial and personal identifying information in a safe place (including laptop computers).

Give Wisely
Make a charitable giving plan and stick to it. Do not donate to anyone calling on the phone or going door to door. If the charity is legitimate, they will mail you information. NEVER give your social security number to a charity. Check out a charity before donating by going to www.give.org or www.charitynavigator.org.

Protect Personal Information
NEVER give out your social security number, bank account or credit card account information or your passwords and PINS to callers or people who send you text messages or e-mails. Consider giving gift cards instead of writing a check. Take out-going mail to the Post Office to mail. Shred all documents and mail containing any financial or personal information.

Be Computer Savvy
Shop on secure websites that display the locked padlock image or include "https://" in the browser window. Use strong passwords. Shop only with sites you know and trust. Do not open e-mails from addresses you do not recognize or e-mailed receipts for merchandise you did not order. If receiving an e-mail asking for money to be wired to help a family member, friend or soldier; it is a scam. Do not wire the money without first checking out the request. Update your anti-virus and anti-spyware programs.

Protect Yourself at Faith Community Events
Do not leave purse or wallets unattended; this includes when going up to the altar, going for Communion or visiting in the Fellowship Hall. Use an envelope when making a donation by check.

After the Holidays
As soon as possible, check your credit card statements and bank account transactions to ensure that everything is accurate.

5 Reasons Using a Debit Card is Dangerous

From Margie Tann  iSekurity

By Kathy Kristof


More people are using debit cards than credit cards this holiday season, which has spurred the Federal Reserve to push ahead on restricting the amount banks can charge merchants for each debit swipe. While banks gripe and merchants rejoice about the Fed rules that are due out this week, budget-savvy experts consider the rise in debit card usage good news because it means that shoppers are attempting to spend no more than they have, avoiding those nasty credit hangovers in January.
The bad news is that using a debit card is just not as safe as using a credit card -- even after new rules went into effect last summer to restrict overdraft charges caused by debit purchases. What makes using a debit card so dicey?


Phantom Charges
Traveling to see relatives this holiday season? Be careful about pulling out that debit card. We all know that when you use your credit card at a gas station or hotel, they charge the card when you leave for the amount of the purchase. It doesn't work that way with a debit card.
When you check into a hotel with a debit card, many hotels put a "hold" on money in your account. That "hold" that starts the moment you check in, can be for more than the amount of the room multiplied by all the nights you're planning to stay, too. How can it be for more than you'll be spending? They argue that you may decide to use the mini-bar or charge things to your room, so they're just protecting themselves from your potentially free-spending ways. Meanwhile their hold, while temporary (and often arbitrary), can cause devastating results for you. One consumer complained that a phantom charge -- a hotel hold for a room that was eventually paid for with cash -- cost him $140 in overdraft fees because he was unaware that his stated bank balance was made partly "unavailable" by the undisclosed hold. It caused his regular bills, which were scheduled to be paid while he was away, to bounce.
Gas stations also commonly place holds of $50 to $75 on your bank account when you use a debit card to purchase gas. These holds can last for days after your visit to the gas station. And it doesn't matter that you only put $10 of fuel in the tank to top off the rental car.
If you use your debit card at a gas station or hotel, find out what their hold policy is and make sure you have plenty of money in your account to cover it.


Overdrafts
Last summer, the Federal Reserve Board enacted new rules that stopped banks from automatically enrolling consumers in overdraft plans that would subject them to high fees when they used debit card for purchases that exceeded their balance. Banks have gone to great lengths to actively enroll people in these costly overdraft plans since then. If you were gullible enough to sign up, you could be at risk of overdrafts if you use a debit card anywhere. If you weren't, any transaction that exceeds your balance should be declined.
The only catch: Some debit transactions -- any debit transaction that does not require a pin number, for instance -- aren't recorded immediately, opening the door to overdraft charges. The good news here is that you may be able to dispute these overdraft fees, saying that they should never have been levied. The bad news? Dickering with your bank may be as common as visiting Santa or cruising Christmas Tree Lane at this time of year, but it's not as much fun.


Merchant Disputes
Let's say you're doing some of your Christmas shopping online and the goods show up damaged -- or don't show up at all. When you've ordered using a credit card you have two things going for you: You're usually billed some weeks after the purchase, giving you a chance to receive and inspect your order before you pay. You also have the right to dispute a charge -- and not pay that portion of your bill -- when something shows up damaged or the merchant fails to deliver it.
When you use your debit card, the amount of the purchase is subtracted from your account immediately -- often long before you've seen the goods. You then have to fight with the merchant to get your money back. If this was a reputable merchant, you shouldn't have a problem. But good luck if you're dealing with a crook.


Account Safety
Like credit cards, federal law limits your liability for fraudulent use of your debit card to $50. But that's only if you report the card stolen within two days of discovering the theft. If you take an extended holiday and don't check your statements for a couple of months, the crook can drain your bank account and there's nothing you can do about it. If there's any chance that somebody could steal your debit card, you need to keep close and regular track of your bank balance and dispute any unfamiliar purchases promptly.


Pay Now/Reimburse Later
If someone has fraudulently used your credit card, you (or your credit card company) are likely to spot it before you get the statement. That means you're never out the money. You dispute the charge, subtract the disputed amount from your bill and let the credit card issuer worry about it. With a debit card, the stolen money may have already left your account. That means you have to dicker with your bank to get reimbursed. Some banks are quick and helpful in resolving these disputes. Others? Not so much.

Lehigh Acres Relay for Life Announces Team Rallies

By Ashley Smith
Media Contact

239-936-1113 Ext. 3902


The Lehigh Acres Relay For Life will hold five Team Rallies in preparation for the 2011 Relay for Life.  Former and current cancer patients, those who have lost a loved one to cancer, families, businesses, faith-based and civic organizations - anyone wanting to make a difference in the fight against cancer are invited to take part in these team events. Team Rallies help both established teams as well as newcomers develop ideas to raise funds this worthwhile cause.  Rallies will take place on January 10, February 7, March 7 and April 4 from 7 pm to 8 pm at the Microtel on Business Way in Lehigh leading up to the overnight Relay For Life that is scheduled for April 16-17, 2011 at Veterans Park Academy.

The American Cancer Society's Relay For Life of Lehigh Acres is presented by Lehigh Regional Medical Center and gives everyone in the community a chance to help the organization save lives and create a world with less cancer and more birthdays. You can register your team today by visiting RelayForLife.org/lehighfl, calling 239-936-1113 or attending the Team Party.

Man, they are getting slick! New Credit Card Scam

From Margie Tann iSekurity

Source: Snopes.com
http://www.snopes.com/crime/warnings/creditcard.asp
(iSEKURITY Communications note: the following is an actual transcript provided by an actual victim)

This one is pretty slick since they provide YOU with all the information, except the one piece they want.

Note: the callers do not ask for your card number because they already have it. This information is worth reading. By understanding how the VISA & Master Card Telephone Credit Card Scam works, you'll be better prepared to protect yourself.

One of our employees was called on Wednesday from 'VISA', and I was called on Thursday from 'Master Card.' The scam works like this:

Caller: 'This is (name), and I'm calling from the Security and Fraud Department at VISA. My Badge number is 12460. Your card has been flagged for an unusual purchase pattern, and I'm calling to verify. This would be on your VISA card which was issued by (name of bank). Did you purchase an Anti-Telemarketing Device for $497.99 from a Marketing company based in (<LOCATION> has been removed for security purposes)?'

When you say 'No', the caller continues with, 'Then we will be issuing a credit to your account. This is a company we have been watching and the charges range from $297 to $497, just under the $500 purchase pattern that flags most cards. Before your next statement, the credit will be sent to (gives you your address), is that correct?'

You say 'yes.' The caller continues: 'I will be starting a Fraud investigation. If you have any questions, you should call the 1-800 number listed on the back of your card (1-800-VISA) and ask for Security. You will need to refer to this Control Number. ' The caller then gives you a 6 digit number. 'Do you need me to read it again?'

Here's the IMPORTANT part on how the scam works: The caller then says, 'I need to verify you are in possession of your card.' He'll ask you to 'turn your card over and look for some numbers.' There are 7 numbers; the first 4 are part of your card number, the next 3 are the security Numbers that verify you are the possessor of the card. These are the numbers you sometimes use to make Internet purchases to prove you have the card. The caller will ask you to read the 3 numbers to him. After you tell the caller the 3 numbers, they'll say, 'That is correct, I just needed to verify that the card has not been lost or stolen and that you still have your card. Do you have any other questions?' After you say 'No,' the caller then thanks you and states, 'Don't hesitate to call back if you do, and hangs up.

You actually say very little and they never ask for or tell you the Card number. But after we were called on Wednesday, we called back within 20 minutes to ask a question. Are we glad we did! The REAL VISA Security Department told us it was a scam and in the last 15 minutes a new purchase of $497.99 was charged to our card.

Long story made short: we made a real fraud report and closed the VISA account. VISA is reissuing us a new number. What the scammers want is the 3-digit PIN number on the back of the card. Don't give it to them. Instead, tell them you'll call VISA or Master card directly for verification of their conversation. The real VISA told us that they will never ask for anything on the card as they already know the information since they issued the card! If you give the scammers your 3 Digit PIN Number, you think you're receiving a credit. However, by the time you get your statement you'll see charges for purchases you didn't make and by then it's almost too late and/or more difficult to actually file a fraud report.

What makes this more remarkable is that on Thursday, I got a call from a 'Jason Richardson of Master Card' with a word-for-word repeat of the VISA scam. This time I didn't let him finish. I hung up! We filed a police report, as instructed by VISA. The police said they are taking several of these reports daily! They also urged us to tell everybody we know that this scam is happening.
Please pass this on to all your family, friends and neighbors. By informing each other, we protect each other.

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Destiny Diaper Banks 2nd Annual Baby's 1st Christmas Event

Saturday, December 18 · 12:00pm - 2:00pm

940 Tarpon St. Ft. Myers, Fl. 33916

 By Rebecca Hines

---

Join Destiny Diaper Bank as we welcome new Moms and Moms-to-Be who were referred to us through the Healthy Start Program for our 2nd Annual Baby's 1st Christmas. This event is being held to ensure that these newborn babies are guaranteed a safe place to sleep on Christmas Day!

Destiny Diaper Bank will be providing from your donations, Portable Pack 'n Play Playards and gift bags to these new babies and their Moms. Woman's Life, ...City Community Church, Coffee Creations - Cape Coral & Destiny Ministries of Southwest Florida are sponsors of this event.

Join us on December 18 and help us to Celebrate our 2nd Annual Baby's 1st Christmas and by doing one or more of the following:

~ Donate directly to Destiny Diaper Bank by clicking here http://www.destinydiaperbank.com/

~ Become a Sponsor for this event with a donation of $500 or more

~ Donate or purchase one or more Pack 'n Plays as shown on this link:
http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=10746139&selected_variation_0=10746139&qty_0=50&upc=0004740610340&registry_id=86173069185&shopFor=true

~ Most of all, please share this invite with your friends and family!

Whatever you choose, I appreciate you and your ongoing support! Any questions, please feel free to call me!

Rev. Rebecca G. Hines
Destiny Diaper Bank
destinydiaperlady@yahoo.com
Center: 239 549-2130
Cell: 239 910-8198

Mission:
It is our hope that through diaper donations abuse and neglect will be prevented on our most fragile and vulnerable populations giving quality of life to those in need of diapers.

For more info about Destiny Diaper Bank:
http://www.destinydiaperbank.com/

Please "LIKE us at www.facebook.com/DestinyDiaperBank and share the link with your friends!!!

Doo-Wop Nights

From Sal

I wanted to share this event with you because I really love this Classic Music, and to keep it alive I want to support it by making sure I support it in my community! It's called Doo-Wop Nights. Larry Chance and the Earls and The Reflections are coming down.  To add to this event there also will be an All Day Judged Car show. Please check out the website at www.Doo-WopNights.com for more information! My wife and I are really excited, this is going to be the Doo-Wop Event of the year! Every ticket also includes a Dinner Buffet!

These are two of the Biggest Groups of their day, and I will tell you what when you see the video, They have still got the magic today... This show is going to be a blast they really have gone all out! Larry Chance's big hit is called "Remember When", and The Reflections big hit is called "Just like Romeo and Juliet"

Also if you are in a hurry here is a quick video that will show you a little about this great event: Doo-Wop Nights 2011 The Doo-Wop Party of the Year! January 21st and 22nd, 2011 in Englewood, Florida
This is how I first heard about it, a lot of my friends have been talking about this and I think this is just going to be an excellent show.

They are on Facebook
-Fan Page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Doo-WopNightscom/146951135332795

-Event Page: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=138345479548791

Please feel free to share this with your friends and family as I am with you.

I look forward to seeing you at the show, as this is going to be a wonderful weekend event! Thank you so much for your time and understanding my sending of this email. I love music like this and want to make sure we continue to have these great groups come down! I miss just going to the diner in my old Chevy, this is going to be like finding a time machine to the good old days... When Music still had the soul and magic! Please do your part, if you love this great music like  I do! Have a wonderful Holiday season!


Sal

Mini 2hrs Seminar at Center of Eternal Light

By Totally Unique Ideas

A great Christmas gift for you and your friend
Amanda Devine is a Life Coach, Master in Energy Healing, and CEO of Totally Unique Ideas with a Master’s Degree in Psychology. She is going to share her incredible story of healing her acute incurable disease of the nervous system, she had for 6 years. She will also reveal the true power that we possess in an entirely unique way. Do you think you know how powerful you are? Your point of view is going to change during her presentation. Her approach is extraordinary and that is why she achieves incredible results with her clients in every area of their lives, health, money, relationships, etc. As an outcome, people from 106 countries read Amanda’s Blog, she Hosts a Blog Talk Radio Show, a documentary movie is being made about Amanda’s Healings, a book about Amanda’s life “Behind the Iron Veil” written by Mike Houston has just been published and is available in Barnes & Noble, and she was also offered to host her own TV show.
At the end of her unique presentation, you will be able to ask any questions that you have. You will leave amazed, surprised and empowered!!!

Center of Eternal Light
Friday December 10, 2010 at 7:30pm
260 Professional Place, Unit B
North Fort Myers, FL USA
Only $20 per person

Smart Cause: 12 Days of Diapers

Please take this great opportunity to give back by supporting Destiny Diaper Bank in the 12 Days of Diapers Program sponsored by Huggies - Every Little Bottom! Support us by making a purchase and you can potentially win a $200 gift card, stroller or Flip video! Check the link below for all the details!
From Destiny Diaper Bank

Huggies Every Little Bottom 1 in 3 moms in the U.S. struggle with diaper need. These moms have had to cut back on food, utilities, like heat or electricity, or even child care in order to provide enough diapers for their babies. Sadly, babies in diaper need may suffer physically and emotionally. Babies may be kept in wet, dirty diapers for extended periods of time or, in more extreme cases, made to wear used diapers which have been cleaned or dried out. Babies in diaper need are more likely to show signs of irritation and discomfort, cry or suffer more from diaper rash when they can not be changed (than babies who are not living in diaper need). The critical issue of diaper need prompted Huggies to develop a nationwide response – Every Little Bottom. The program has a single mission – to help get diapers to babies in need. Together, we can help more babies have enough diapers, but we need your help! Join us in raising awareness about this issue and by donating diapers to moms in need today.

http://www.huggies.com/en-US/promotions/everylittlebottom/elb-story

 

Smart Cause: 12 Days of Diapers – Support a Mom in Need! {w/giveaway} | Smarty Pants Mama

smartypantsmama.com

Our Christmas lists are made and the shopping may even be done! But, we all know the truth. Many moms are struggling to alone diaper their babies, not to......Click link above to read more.

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GiftsForHope.us Needs Bike donations

By Michele Andre

The Gifts for hope program is in need of bicycles for children this holiday season. All sizes, boys and girls are needed.

When you donate a new bike, the Bridge Networking Group is giving you a free ad for the month of January. Your  Banner ad*, which is linked to your website, will run in 3 times in the Bridge emails during the month of January, reaching over 4,000 people each time.

You can deliver your bike to:

Servpro

1685 Target Ct.

Fort Myers Fl 33905

For directions call Cathy Clement 334-8700

Be sure to include your business card with the donated bike.

*Banner ad creation not included

Children's Christmas Party
Wed, Dec 22, Royal Palm Yacht Club, 2-4pm
Free Admission

Please help a local Child this Holiday Season
 www.GiftsForHope.us

www.TheBridgeNetworking.com

Cape Coral Insurance Center Bryce Grimsley

MM  MEDICARE ENROLLMENT

You may not be seeing me around the networking circles as often as usual until after the end of the year.  I am spending the majority of time at Walgreen's now through the end of the year. It is Medicare annual enrollment time !! From now until 12/31/10 you can enroll in a new plan.  This is the only time you can change plan in most cases for 2011. If you know anybody that is on Medicare and would like information on the various options available, have them stop by and see me, or call me for an appointment at 239-357-6415. I will be at the Walgreen's at 905 Cape Coral Pkwy E, Monday, Tuesday & Thursday from 9:30 - 3:00 and from 10:00 200 Saturday and Sunday I thank you for passing on this information to anyone interested in enrolling in a new plan or just want to be sure they have the best plan for them. Bryce Grimsley Cape Coral Insurance Center 239-549-6255 Cell 239-357-6415 Bryce@ccicins.com

The Annual North Fort Myers Honorary Mayor Campaign has begun!

By Kim Constantine, Executive Director

Each Year the North Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce hosts an event that is talked about all year.

The 2011 North Fort Myers Honorary Mayor Barbeque and Community festival will be no exception.  Several Candidates are running for the North Fort Myers Honorary Mayor position. Candidates will be announced next week.

This year the unique down home venue calls to the entire community.  The Chamber is planning on making this a family festival with food, games, activities and fun.  We look to encourage the local businesses, both Chamber members and non-members to participate.  

The gracious host of past Honorary Mayor events, Tommy Hoolihan with Hoolihan Lifestyle Center has offered his luscious 18 acre private Southern Waters Estate to create a true Southern Style Venue. There will be plenty of parking, entertainment for adults and children promising community spirit for a "Grand Time".

Tickets are $15.00 per person.  Kids are $5.00.  There will be a full out BBQ, and taste of North Fort Myers ( hosts to be announced). SWFL business's will donate a bountiful display of gifts, services, and products during the "Great Chinese Auction". There will be 30 SWFL business's participating in our Business Exposition offering prizes and freebees. All Mayor candidates votes will be tallied during the event to announce the winner during our NFM Honorary Mayor Ceremony. All proceeds support The North Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce business and community programs and services.  Visit www.nfmchamber.org for more information.

Mark your calendar for Saturday January 29, 2010.   11:00AM to 4:00PM.  Call The North Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce Welcome center 239 997-9111 to reserve your tickets.  All prepaid ticket participants will enter to win one of ten cash visa cards valued at $50.00

Come meet our 2011 North Fort Myers Honorary Mayor Candidates and their families, along with the many people who support your business community!

2nd Annual Baby's 1st Christmas - Destiny Diaper Bank

By Rebbecca Hines

Join Destiny Diaper Bank as we welcome new Moms and Moms-to-Be who were referred to us through the Healthy Start Program for our 2nd Annual Baby's 1st Christmas. This event is being held to ensure that these newborn babies are guaranteed a safe place to sleep on Christmas Day!

Destiny Diaper Bank will be providing from your donations, Portable Pack'nPlay Playards and gift bags to these new babies and their Moms. Woman's Life, City Community Church, Coffee Creations - Cape Coral & Destiny Ministries of Southwest Florida are sponsors of this event.




There are several ways you can help us.....


Become a Sponsor for this event with a donation of $500 or more by going to:  Destiny Diaper Bank

Donate or purchase one or more Pack 'n Plays as shown on this link: Walmart Gift Registry

Donate or purchase any of the newborn items as shown on this link: Walmart Gift Registry

Donate Directly any amount http://www.destinydiaperbank.com/


Baby’s 1st Christmas
Over the last several years, Destiny Ministries receives more and more calls from area agencies in need of beds for babies. The agencies that we are closest to such as Healthy Start report some homes needing a safe place for the babies due to sleeping with their mom and sometimes several children in the bed at the same time.
I remember one home that I went into that had a 6 pound week old baby sleeping on one side of the mom while her two other boys ages 5 & 6 were sleeping on the other side. This entire little family lived in this one bedroom.
Destiny Ministries provides play yards for these babies in need. Due to the fact that most of the living quarters of some families are limited, the need for a small bed is necessary.
Please join us in providing a safe place for babies to sleep this Christmas. On Saturday December 18 Baby’s 1st. Christmas will give beds to babies that need a safe place to sleep. This event will be held at:

City Community Church
940 Tarpon St.
Ft. Myers, Fl. 33916
12:00 pm – 2:00 pm

In order for this to be a success we need beds and other baby items. Each baby needing a bed will come from a referral agency. Also provided will be a tote bag filled with diapers, wipes, lotions, clothes, toys, and a little something for mom. To volunteer or participate, please call 239-549-2130 and ask for Rebecca (cell 910-8198)  
Email: destinydiaperlady@yahoo.com

Fraudulent Classified Ads and Auction Sales

From Margie Tann iSekurity

Source: Wall Street Journal

Internet criminals post classified ads and auctions for products they do not have,
and make the scam work by using stolen credit cards. Fraudsters receive an order
from a victim, charge the victim's credit card for the amount of the order, then
use a separate, stolen credit card for the actual purchase. They pocket the purchase
price obtained from the victim's credit card and have the merchant ship the item
directly to the victim. Consequently, an item purchased from an online auction but
received directly from the merchant is a strong indication of fraud. Victims of
such a scam not only lose the money paid to the fraudster, but may be liable for
receiving stolen goods.

Shoppers may help avoid these scams by using caution and not providing financial
information directly to the seller, as fraudulent sellers will use this information
to purchase items for their schemes. Always use a legitimate payment service to
ensure a safe, legitimate purchase.

As for product delivery, fraudsters posing as legitimate delivery services offer
reduced or free shipping to customers through auction sites. They perpetuate this
scam by providing fake shipping labels to the victim. The fraudsters do not pay
for delivery of the packages; therefore, delivery service providers intercept the
packages for nonpayment and the victim loses the money paid for the purchase of
the product.

Diligently check each seller's rating and feedback along with their number of sales
and the dates on which feedback was posted. Be wary of a seller with 100% positive
feedback, with a low total number of feedback postings, or with all feedback posted
around the same date and time.

Needed:Gently Used Bikes and Trikes

The Children with the Suncoast Neighborhood Task Force have a Christmas Wish list for bikes and trikes. If you have a gently used bike/trike please consider donating them to one of the many children who would love to have one. You ccan bring them to: Tucker Vision Center 88 Pine Island Rd NFM (between the 2 41's) 239 - 656-1778 ask for Suzi.... for directions visit Tucker Vision Center 

Bike Needs Size, type and how many needed...

 

Trike 2
12" Girls 3
12" Spiderman 1
12" Boys 6
16" Boys 4
20" Girls 4
20" Boys 11
24-26" Girl 1
24-26" Boy 2

BBB Reminds Consumer to Check out Charities this Holiday Season before Giving

From Margie Tann iSekurity

Source: tucsoncitizen.com - Powered by bbbconsumeralert - Dec. 03, 2010

Have you recently received one of those plastic envelopes from Cell Phones for Soldiers, with the tag line "Help Our Troops Call Home!"? I received one, too, and wondered how that organization would actually use the phones: Would they sell them and make money to pay for the overseas calls by soldiers, install service on the phones and give them to a platoon, or give the soldiers the phones when theirs break?

For that matter, can soldiers carry cell phones when they are active military?

When I looked up the charity using the BBB Wise Giving Alliance (WGA), I found a report that said Cell Phones for Soldiers did not provide the requested information, therefore the WGA couldn't evaluate the charity.

I'm always a little suspect when a charity or business doesn't give information to be evaluated. So, I dug a little deeper. I checked Guidestar, which has a lot of 990s (an IRS tax form for charities) on file. The address on the plastic envelope I received is Dexter, Michigan, but the address on Guidestar is in Massachusetts.

The mission statement says "Organization raises funds to provide funds to pursue its mission as stated in its bylaws of providing aid to service men and women this is achieved by donations from the public of money and cell phones which are sold in a recycling program." (sic)

In 2008 the organization brought in more than $2.7 million in contributions and grants, of which $1.7 million was from cell phones. They spent $1 million on pre-paid calling cards (which we would assume they gave to soldiers) and report administrative and fund-raising expenses of less than $200,000.

I also wanted to check to be sure that the IRS had this charity on their list of organizations eligible to receive tax-deductible charitable contributions. They are listed, which means if you choose to donate to them, you can deduct the amount the cell phone is worth (not what you paid).

With a cell phone, you will want to use a search engine and see if you can determine the fair market value for the phone you are donating. You will also need documentation from the organization that they received the donation, including their name, date of the contribution, and an indication of what was given. (In the case of gifts-in-kind, as opposed to cash, most charities won't list a dollar amount on the receipt.)

If you aren't sure what donations can be deducted on your taxes, the Internal Revenue Service may be able to help you.

The BBB hopes that as you are deciding what charities to give your hard-earned money to this holiday season, you will use due diligence and check out every offer prior to donating. The BBB has charity standards, one of which is that the charity should spend at least 65% of its total expenses on program activities.

Happy Donating!

Florida Calendar Girls December Events

Saturday, December 4^{th –} Comcast Holiday Festival of Lights

   Main Stage, SW 47^{th Terr and Vincennes, Cape Coral}
   We perform sometime after 8:00 PM

Saturday, December 18^{th –} Burroughs Home Holiday House

             Downtown Fort Myers, 2505 First Street
   We perform around 6:00 PM

Sunday, December 19^{th –} Cape Coral Boat Parade

   Four Freedoms Park, 4818 Tarpon Ct, Cape Coral
   We perform around 6:00 PM

Wednesday, December 22^{nd –} Edison Home Holiday Nights

   Edison Home, 2350 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers
   We perform around 7:00 PM
Happy Holidays!….stay tuned for more!

?A Jam for Kevin? Southwest Florida lends a helping hand.

In times like these, it?s good to know you?re in a community that 
cares. Ft. Myer?s City Tavern and local musicians care enough to help 
one of their own fight cancer. North Ft. Myers resident and musician, 
Kevin Klaus, was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma (cancer of blood 
cells) this fall. Since his diagnosis, his condition has left him 
disabled and unable to work. With medical bills rising, local 
musicians took it upon themselves to help out.

On December 12th, ?A Jam for Kevin? will help give Kevin a fighting 
chance. City Tavern in downtown Ft. Myers will have free live music 
all day with acts like No Way Jose, The John Allender Band, 
Experimental Funktion, and more. There is no cover, but donations are 
encouraged. Come join the fun for a great cause. Your ears and your 
heart will thank you.

Who: ?A Jam for Kevin?
What: An all day benefit concert for Kevin Klaus
When: Sunday December 12, 2-10pm
Where: The City Tavern, downtown Ft. Myers, FL
www.mycitytavern.com

For more information contact Jeff lewis 704-780-2243 or heffro@gmail.com

Dickson Hunley
www.mycitytavern.com
www.twitter.com/citytavern
www.facebook.com/citytavern
myspace.com/fortmyerscitytavern

Lenny's Pest Control How to Get Rid of Fire Ants

Fire Ants

 Fire Ants can be controlled by a two different methods.

Drench all existing mounds with Demon EC or Talstar concentrate. At least one gallon of finished solution is required for fire ant mounds, 1/2 gallon for smaller ones. A good rule of thumb is to use one gallon of solution per foot of diameter of mound. For example, a huge mound that is three feet wide (at its base) would require three gallons of finished solution. This ensures that you kill ants deep in the colony structure. Keep pets and children away from treated areas until dry.

Lenny's Pest Control
4205 SE 1st Ct
Cape Coral , FL 33904

www.lennyspestcontrol.com

Lee County
(239) 945-6543
Charlotte County
(941) 621-2424
Collier County
(239) 963-2644

2010 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Celebration

The Dunbar Festival Committee

http://celebratemlk.net/


Dear Community Member:

The Dunbar Festival Committee, a non profit 501 C 3 organization is comprised of volunteers from our community have been working diligently in planning the 2010 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Celebration.  This annual celebration, one of the largest in the South draws thousands of citizens from the Southwest Florida community and beyond.  This year's celebration will have a "Multicultural Flavor" through the talent displayed throughout the afternoon.  The celebration will take place Saturday, January 16th through Monday, January 18th.  Please see the enclosed schedule of events.

Our theme for this year's celebration is:  "Dr. King's Dream: Moving Communities Forward."  We hope that you will join us in celebrating Dr. King's legacy.    


The Dunbar Festival Committee needs your financial support in presenting a high quality celebration.  Each year our attendance has grown due to the quality of the event.  Last year more than 10,000 persons attended and participated.  Our goal for this year is 12,000 persons.   A major goal of this year's celebration is to educate our community and our youth of the importance and significance of the Civil Rights Movement for all people.  

One special event that we will be conducting this year is a Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Dinner & Dance Program.  Proceeds from this event will be used to award a male student the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship and a female student the Rosa Parks Scholarship.  This event will be held at the Riverside Community Center.    

The Dunbar Festival Committee is soliciting your financial support in helping us to make this year's celebration a success.  All of the names of our sponsors will be placed on banners throughout Centennial Park and promoted to our Southwest Florida community in attendance at the celebration.  We are asking for the following financial support amounts, however any donation would be greatly appreciated.  

SPONSORSHIPS

Platinum Sponsor……………………$1000.00 or More
Gold Sponsor………………………. …………$500.00
Silver Sponsor………………………………….$250.00
Bronze Sponsor………………………………...$100.00
Patron Sponsor…………………………………..$50.00
Donor Sponsor………………………….$25.00 or Less

Please make your check or money order payable to The Dunbar Festival Committee.  Your donation will assist us in the following manner:  1.  College scholarships to deserving students; 2.  Prizes, trophies and ribbons for the Poster, Essay Contests and Health & Wellness Activities; 3.  Food/refreshments; and 4.  The sound system and DJ expenses for Centennial Park.

I sincerely hope that you will seriously consider assisting the Dunbar Festival Committee in this way.  If you should have any questions, please feel free to contact me at 239-489-9338 (work), 239-464-5762 (cell) or by e-mail at fmorgan@edison.edu.  

Sincerely,

Fredrick D. Morgan, II, President
 

2011 Town Hall Meeting: "The Challenge of Obesity from Cradle to Grave"

Media contact: Lisa Merritt, M.D.
941.906.9484 / cxdisparities@yahoo.com

Sarasota healthcare groups join forces to present
2011 Town Hall Meeting:
"The Challenge of Obesity from Cradle to Grave"

[ Nov. 10, 2010 — Sarasota, Fla. ] Local healthcare groups including the Cobb Institute, Gulf Coast Medical Society, Multicultural Health Institute and Sarasota Memorial Hospital host their 2011 Town Hall Meeting, "Childhood Obesity from Cradle to Grave," a two-day event, Jan. 7 and 8, 2011, taking place at both the Sarasota Memorial Hospital Auditorium and the Hyatt Regency Sarasota. This event is free and open to the public.

The programs scheduled are designed to promote in-depth discussions of prenatal and early childhood factors in obesity and how they can impact lifelong struggles with obesity.  Equally important is employer recognition of the value of onsite wellness programs that address prevention and reduction of obesity.

 An array of metabolic, hemodynamic, and renal abnormalities constitutes the cardio-metabolic syndrome. A hallmark of this syndrome is visceral obesity and associated insulin resistance. The syndrome is also associated with hypertension, abnormalities in blood pressure and heart rate and additional symptoms, all of which contribute to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease morbidity and mortality.

The 2011 Town Hall will discuss all of these health impacts at several events, beginning with grand rounds by the National Medical Association president on Fri., Jan. 7 from 8-9 a.m. at Sarasota Memorial Hospital Auditorium and the welcome reception from 7 to 9 p.m. that evening at the Hyatt. This Friday night event is open to the public and will showcase community organizations and resources that are helping to solve this epidemic. The theme is "Start The New Year Right" and will feature the unveiling of a bilingual community resource guide to be distributed at community events.

On Saturday, a lecture series featuring local and national experts will run from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Sarasota Memorial Hospital Auditorium and the event will conclude with a dinner-dance at the Hyatt at 7 p.m. on Saturday. The complete schedule is below.

All members of the community and healthcare professionals including educators, researchers, community leaders, advocates and policy makers are invited to attend. Sarasota Memorial Hospital is accredited by the Florida Medical Association to provide continuing medical education for physicians. Sarasota Memorial hospital designated this educational activity for a maximum of four AMA PRA Category One credits.

For more information, contact Lisa Merritt, M.D. 941-906-9484 or Faith Cooper 202.347.1895
2011 Town Hall Meeting: The Health Impact of CardioMetabolic Syndrome

Fri., Jan 7, 2011
8-9 a.m. NMA president grand rounds at Sarasota Memorial Hospital Auditorium
7-9 p.m. Start the New Year Right! Welcome reception at Hyatt Regency Sarasota
 Sat., Jan. 8, 2011
8 a.m. – 1 p.m. - Lecture Series at Sarasota Memorial Hospital Auditorium
7-10 p.m. Dinner-dance at Hyatt Regency Sarasota
 About the National Medical Association

Founded in 1895, the NMA is a nonprofit organization that is the nation's oldest and largest medical association representing the interests of more 30,000 African American physicians and their patients. The NMA advocates health care for policies that would assure equitable and quality health care for all.  For more information please visit nmanet.org

 About The Cobb Institute

The National Medical Association (NMA) launched the W. Montague Cobb/NMA Health Institute in December 2004 to develop, evaluate, and implement strategies to promote wellness and eliminate health disparities and racism in medicine.  The Cobb Institute conducts data-driven research, makes policy recommendations where appropriate, and serves as a resource for NMA members and the greater healthcare community. The long range vision of the Institute is to become a preeminent repository of information about the health of African Americans. For more information please visit http://cobb.nmanet.org/index.php/About/

 About The Multicultural Health Institute

The Multicultural Health Institute is devoted to the research and dissemination of information regarding multicultural health issues, with a goal of improving healthcare delivery through greater understanding among all parties involved.  Founded in California in 1995, the organization has conducted programs on the local, state and national levels.  They have consulted with organizations such as the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers Association (PHARMA), National Medical Association (NMA), Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC), National Institutes Of Health, Morehouse School of Medicine and the Centers for Disease Control REACH collaborative. For more information please visit multiculturalhealthinstitute.com

The United Methodist Women Holiday Bazaar

The United Methodist Women ("UMW") at Cape Coral First United Methodist Church
4118 Coronado Parkway, will host their annual Holiday Bazaar on
Saturday December 4,2010 from 8:30AM - 1:30PM.

Sharon Nottingham with Willow house will be there.... join her and see all that she has to offer for your holiday gift giving and decor needs. 

Willow House is here!  Ask about our Design Parties!

Sharon Nottingham Group Leader
Willow House...simply good design!!

At Willow House, we embody grace, warmth, and a bit of magic.

Shopping carts, online ordering, 24/7
    E-commerce and E-Boutiques!

Come join our amazing new company now!!!

cc58rn@hotmail.com 
athomenottingham.willowhouse.com

239 839-6989 cell

239 652-0006 office