Tuesday, May 3, 2022

CNN Hero of the Year Shirley Raines has more to give to the ‘Kings’ and ‘Queens’ of Skid Row


"Share something. 

Create something. 

Teach something. 

Go where you are masterful and add value to the world 

in any way that's accessible to you." - Leslie Ralph


Shirley Raines is one example of how we can all step up and find a way to contribute to the growing issues in the world. We came into this world with the capacity for love and compassion. Through all the murk and noise, a lot of us have lost our way. I believe if you can step away from focusing on the (Me) to the (We) great strides can be accomplished.

Shirley received the CNN Hero's Award for her unrelenting efforts to see the unhoused as human. Humanity is interesting in that we can applaud the rich and famous while also breaking them. We can love and support our friends and family until their lives crumble.

One thing is certain, at some point we all must face some type of adversity. How will you handle being unseen, unheard, and tossed with the trash? Yes, this is harsh but a bit of courage to speak the words needs to be said. There are so many people on this planet that have the capacity to help financially, with resources, skills, and talents and yet there are so few willing to help. 

As there are nearly 8 billion people on the planet, there are 8 billion ways we can support each other.

Congratulations, Shirley for being a true human with kindness and compassion. When we see the other in our eyes, we see ourselves. That person and their circumstances could so easily be you.

Shirley mentioned needing more blankets and tents. Check out her website at Beauty 2 The Streetz to see how you can contribute or support.

Does anyone know a resource for these items?

You can read the full article and watch the video here.





Tuesday, April 26, 2022

Protecting One Million Acres of Endangered Rainforest

 The deforestation of the rainforest has destroyed over 289,000 square miles in the past 50 years. Human destruction of the rainforest is putting 90% of the poorest population’s survival at risk.

OMA’s mission is to protect one million acres of endangered rainforest while raising indigenous artisan communities out of poverty.

We were introduced to OMA by one of our gamechangers – GotBag, their goal is to clean up the oceans from the extensive amount of waste and then they manufacture beautiful backpacks, bags and accessories from the recycled ocean plastic. All the changemakers on ATP are making a huge impact toward a more sustainable and equitable planet.

These beautiful artisan bracelets are made with Tagua which is a nut grown on palm trees in the Amazon Rainforest, Chambira thread which is a super eco-friendly material and zero waste packaging made from biodegradable paper embedded with wildflower seeds.

Each OMA Tagua Bracelet funds the 3-Tiered approach which:

(1) protects one acre of the rainforest (conservation)

(2) planting one tree (reforestation)

(3) fair-trade job creation by empowering indigenous communities with economic opportunities.

Join this movement today and help SAVE the endangered rainforest.

Click here to purchase your bracelet(s) today.

Wednesday, April 20, 2022

Will 2022 be a hot summer?

As reported a few days ago, a hot and dry summer is expected across the south-central United StatesOver the southwest and east, more storms are expected, as the forecast calls for higher temperatures and normal to above-normal precipitation.

In the first two months of 2022, the global surface temperature was the sixth highest on record. This means it is virtually certain (above 99%) that 2022 will rank in the top-10 hottest years.

In preparing for the onslaught of hotter weather now is the time to consider your options for staying safe and cool. The downside is it will mean running your air conditioner and/or fans thereby increasing your energy bills.

There are four ways you can reduce your energy expenditure during the hotter months without sacrificing comfort.

  1. Consider air conditioning maintenance before the warmer weather arrives, cleaning your system, making sure it's working properly, clean and/or replacing the filter.
  2. Using a ceiling fan in conjunction with your air conditioning will provide additional comfort and help reduce the energy output as opposed to using your air conditioner only.
  3. Consider purchasing energy-efficient air conditioners and appliances
  4. Make the switch to solar. Solar brings so many benefits. Reduce your electric bill immediately. Your monthly bill will be a set amount each month. The value of your home will increase and you will be reducing your carbon footprint on the planet. 
Whatever you decide, stay safe and cool!