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'That's my son you're talking about': defending children with disabilities from those who say they shouldn't live
DO yourself a favour. Stop what you are doing, log on to YouTube and watch a short film called Be My Brother.
Starring Gerard O'Dwyer and created by 20-year-old Genevieve Clay, Be My Brother took out the award for best film at the 2009 Tropfest. Gerard was named best actor.
Gerard is a young man with Down syndrome who takes prejudice by the throat through humour and charm.
He disarms people. The last few seconds of the film are a celebration of unadulterated affection and acceptance.
Now meet Melissa Riggio.
In a National Geographic piece entitled "I have Down syndrome: Know me before you judge me," Melissa wrote: "When my mum first told me I had Down syndrome, I worried that people might think I wasn't as smart as they were, or that I talked or looked different".
"But having Down syndrome is what makes me 'me'. And I'm proud of who I am."
But Melissa knows about prejudice.
She says: "I still have to remind myself all the time that it really is OK to just be myself.
"Sometimes all I see – all I think other people see – is the outside of me, not the inside.
"And I really want people to go in there and see what I'm all about."
Melissa challenges us: "I can't change that I have Down syndrome, but one thing I would change is how people think of me.
"I'd tell them: Judge me as a whole person, not just the person you see.
"Treat me with respect, and accept me for who I am. Most important, just be my friend."
But there are some who think Gerard and Melissa shouldn't be here at all.
In the British Journal of Medical Ethics recently, Melbourne academics Alberto Giubilini and Francesca Minerva argued for "after-birth abortion", a euphemism for the killing of newborns.
The killing of infants is legitimate, they wrote, "if a disease has not been detected during the pregnancy, if something went wrong during the delivery, or if economical, social or psychological circumstances change such that taking care of the offspring becomes an unbearable burden".
Babies with disabilities are obvious first targets of such arguments.
In my book Defiant Birth: Women who Resist Medical Eugenics (Spinifex Press, 2009), I argued we live in a society intolerant of those judged imperfect.
The contributors spoke of how they faced disapproval for having babies with disabilities. But they refused to go along with social prejudice.
The academics' views, in a prestigious journal providing ethical education to the medical profession, make it harder for those women and for their children.
They fuel the idea that it is a woman's duty not to "burden" society with their child.
It's already hard for families with disabled children to find proper help and care in a society backing away from collective responsibility for those who are vulnerable, questioning sharing the costs of healthcare services with those with special needs.
Many more children become disabled at or after birth than those who had a disability before birth. Will utilitarian academics argue they should be done away with as well?
Jay Jeffries is a Melbourne mother of two boys, including Tuscan, aged almost 4.
She told me that when she saw Down syndrome especially cited as a reason for infanticide, "suddenly I felt a very deep sickening feeling. I wanted to vomit. That's my boy you're talking about, that's my toddler you'd be killing off".
"When my son was born they placed him on my chest, his eyes were wide open.
"He made a little cry and I kissed him over and over and played with his fingers. My husband wept tears of joy," Jeffries said.
"We knew from 15 weeks that he had Down syndrome. We knew he had a heart condition and would need surgery in the first three months of life, yet still we wept tears of joy.
"He had survived. He was our little fighter!
"We didn't see his disability, we just saw the red mop of hair, the little fingers and his innocent eyes.
"When I think that someone in that moment might have suggested killing him, I feel rage! I wanted to protect him from all the bad things in this world. These are a mother's natural instincts.
"What would become of a society that squished these desires, and moved straight to a cold analytical assessment of the child?"
I wonder if the real disability is not with the child but instead with society's inability to see its intolerance of imperfection.
Julia Anderson, wife of former deputy prime minister John Anderson, wrote in Defiant Birth of what she learned from their son Andrew, who had Down syndrome and died at six months: "To see that we are all imperfect, just in different ways."
I'd rather a world with Gerard and Melissa and Andrew and Tuscan in it than a world of powerful people who deny their right to be here.
As published in the Sunday Herald Sun, April 22, 2012


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Aren't you glad that next week is Spring break? I sure am! We are at such a busy time in our lives. Here's a breakdown of our typical week. I know you probably don't care but I just want to write it down so years from now, I can remember all that we used to do! Now remember, Emma & Dougie attend a school that is about 30 minutes away and all of their extra curricular activities are either at school or in that general vicinity. Hold your horses.....
Monday- Emma has track until 4:30. The boys & I usually go to the park until she's done. Dougie has baseball practice from 6:15-7:30 and Emma has Social from 7:15-8:15.
Tuesday- Emma- track til 4:30. Emma's been involved in a youth girls Bible study from 6:3-8.
Wednesday- church
Thursday- Emma- track til 4:30. Dougie has baseball practice from 5-6:30
Friday- NOTHING, unless it's rained during the week & they reschedule ball practice. ugghhh! Whew! It doesn't look that bad when you see it written down but when you factor in cooking supper, a 4 yr. old and a (almost) 2yr. old, it can get a little crazy.
This past Thursday, Emma had her 1st track meet and it was an hour and a half away! But it was worth it. She did pretty good. The one event that she does that amazes me is the hurdles! I can't hardly believe my baby girl is jumping those gates. She cleared them all! I'm still without a camera so I didn't get any pictures. Her next meet will be after Spring Break, so hopefully, I'll get some then.
Thankfully, we'll get a much needed break next week.
Love y'all dearly!

subset: commoncrawl


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Warren Buffett and Bill and Melinda Gates's initiative to get billionaires to pledge at least half their wealth to charity signed on 11 new families who support causes from science museums to access to marijuana.
The list includes Intel Corp. co-founder Gordon Moore and his wife Betty, Progressive Corp. Chairman Peter B. Lewis and Netflix Inc. Chief Executive Officer Reed Hastings and his wife Patty Quillin, according to a statement today from the Giving Pledge campaign. They were joined by Manoj Bhargava, Montreal-born Charles R. Bronfman, Dan and Jennifer Gilbert, Jonathan M. Nelson, Jorge M. and Darlene Perez, Claire and Leonard Tow, Albert Lee Ueltschi, and Romesh and Kathleen Wadhwani.
This new group brings extensive business and philanthropic experience that will enrich the conversation about how to make philanthropy as impactful as possible
Buffett, the chairman of Berkshire Hathaway Inc., formed the Giving Pledge with the Gateses in 2010 to boost philanthropy among the world's richest people. The effort has attracted 92 commitments so far, including ones from Facebook Inc. founder Mark Zuckerberg, Citigroup Inc. Chairman Emeritus Sanford "Sandy" Weill and Oracle Corp. co-founder and CEO Larry Ellison.
"We've said from the beginning that this is a long-term effort, so it's exciting to see continued progress," Bill Gates, Microsoft Corp.'s co-founder, said in the statement. "This new group brings extensive business and philanthropic experience that will enrich the conversation about how to make philanthropy as impactful as possible."
Individuals and couples who sign on to the pledge often post letters on the initiative's website to explain their reasons for donating most of their wealth to charity and to describe their philanthropic efforts.
Boosting 'Canadianism'
The newest letters include pledges from the Moores to support science museums and land conservation in the San Francisco Bay area; from Quicken Loans Inc. founder Gilbert and his wife to curing diseases like neurofibromatosis; and from Ueltschi to fund an organization he co-founded that trains cataract specialists.
"I have never seen a hearse pulling a U-Haul trailer," Ueltschi wrote in a letter posted on the website. "You can't take it with you."
Bronfman, the former co-chairman of Seagram Co., said his foundation has a goal of enhancing "Canadianism." He has funded a project that produced television shorts focused on little-known successes from the North American country.
Lewis said he seeks out causes that are often overlooked by others. He has supported progressive think tanks, investigative journalism and efforts to enact laws that give patients in the U.S. access to marijuana to relieve pain and nausea.
Marijuana Laws
"If there is one area that is taboo for most philanthropists yet exemplifies disastrous public policy, it is our nation's outdated, ineffective marijuana laws," he wrote in a letter. "A majority of Americans are ready to change marijuana laws, yet we continue to arrest our young people for engaging in an activity that is utterly commonplace."
Lewis, 78, said in the letter that he used marijuana to relieve pain following the amputation of his lower leg.
Buffett, 82, the world's fourth-richest person with an estimated fortune of US$47.4-billion, announced plans to donate the majority of his wealth to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in 2006. He also committed funds to charities established by his children and late wife.
Gates, 56, and his wife have supported organizations around the world aimed at improving education, enhancing health care and reducing poverty through their namesake foundation. Bill Gates is the world's second-richest person, with a fortune valued at US$64.9-billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.


text: SAN FRANCISCO PUBLIC LIBRARY COMMISSION Minutes of the regular meeting of Thursday, October 16, 2003. (As approved amended January 20, 2004) The San Francisco Public Library Commission held a regular meeting on Thursday, October 16, 2003 in the Koret Auditorium, Main Library. President Higueras called the meeting to order at 4:00pm. The following members were noted present: Commissioners Bautista, Chin, Coulter and Higueras. Commissioners Steiman, and Streets, and Strobin were excused. The following members were noted present: Commissioners Bautista, Coulter, Higueras, Steiman, and Strobin. Commissioner Chin's arrival was expected to be delayed. Commissioner Streets was excused. Commissioner Chin joined the meeting at 4:12PM Agenda Items: 1. Approval of September 18, 2003 Minutes 2. Bond Program Manager's Report 3. Commission Meetings Schedule 4. Library History Plaques 5. Public Comment 6. ADJOURNMENT 7. APPENDIX A -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AGENDA ITEM #1 APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE September 18, 2003 COMMISSION MEETING Public comment on AGENDA ITEM #1 APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE September 18, 2003 COMMISSION MEETING An anonymous member of the public commented that some of this person's remarks related to the Bond Program Manager's Report, the Gift Recognition Policy, and the discussion of the History Plaques were either not reported or reflected inaccurately. Mr. Peter Warfield found a number of omissions in the reported minutes citing comments by Vice President Steiman on page 1, and regarding questions he had asked during the discussion of the Strategic Plan. Mr. Warfield noted that there was no report of comments by the Bond Program Manager or his responses to her remarks concerning Program plans' impact on collections and public service, and found inadequate report of his comments in opposition to approval of the Gift Recognition Policy. Commission discussion of AGENDA ITEM #1 APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE September 18, 2003 COMMISSION MEETING President Higueras noted that he was reported as voting for adjournment on October 16th although he had not attended the meeting and requested that that vote be corrected. Commissioner Coulter suggested revisions in the discussion of the History Plaques regarding a more complete listing of those who contributed to the revisions and also noted that the record should reflect that he had noted that the Commission had already approved the concept of the plaques and that funds were available. Commissioner Coulter additionally suggested that the anonymous member of the public had suggested that the plaques were full of inaccuracies but no response was offered when Commissioner Coulter invited this person to cite specifics that should be changed. MOTION: Commissioner Bautista, seconded by Commissioner Strobin that the September 18, 2003 Minutes be approved as amended. ACTION: AYE 6-0 (Bautista, Chin, Coulter, Higueras, Steiman, and Strobin) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AGENDA ITEM #2 BOND PROGRAM MANAGER'S REPORT Branch Library Improvement Program Manager Marilyn Thompson noted that that there would be no informational report at this meeting. The Branch Improvement Program Manager then presented a Budget Report dated October 16, 2003, and then the current Schedule, Active Projects, and Community Outreach update reports with associated slides, (copies attached). The Branch Library Improvement Program Manager concluded her report noting that there was no special report this month. Public comment on AGENDA ITEM #2 BOND PROGRAM MANAGER'S REPORT An anonymous member of the public commented on the brevity of the reports offered on many projects presented suggesting that this brevity concealed significant details this person knew about. This person additionally discussed a North Beach neighborhood controversy concerning acquisition of a site by eminent domain. Mr. Peter Warfield noted that the explanatory documents related to Bond Program projects and activities presented were not available in advance. Mr. Warfield suggested that the great amount of information presented was too much to review when first presented at a meeting. Commission discussion of AGENDA ITEM #2 BOND PROGRAM MANAGER'S REPORT Responding to a question by Vice President Steiman concerning the new Glen Park Branch, the City Librarian reported that discussions about the sale of the project to a new developer were underway but that all agreements made with the original developer as provided in the Purchase and Sale Agreement would be binding on the new owner. In response to a question by President Higueras, Ms. Hildreth discussed the background of the various proposals put forward for alternative plans instead of the Library's proposed renovation of the current North Beach Branch on its current site. The City Librarian noted that the Library had had a very limited role in these discussions and any activities concerning acquisition of a 4,000 sq. ft. parking lot at 701 Lombard would be undertaken by the Recreation and Park Commission and the Board of Supervisors. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AGENDA ITEM #3 2004 COMMISSION MEETINGS SCHEDULE City Librarian Susan Hildreth recommended approval of the proposed schedule (copy attached) of meetings for 2004. Ms. Hildreth pointed out that the January meetings would be held on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday. For the rest of the year, meetings were proposed to be held on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, except for the months of July and August. Deputy City Attorney Catharine Barnes called attention to a typographical error on the explanatory document listing a proposed meeting on January 15th suggesting it be eliminated. Public comment on AGENDA ITEM #3 GIFT RECOGNITION POLICY An anonymous member of the public noted that there was historical precedent for fewer meetings during the Summer months. This person also suggested that the start time for meeting be moved back to 5:30pm. Mr. Peter Warfield agreed with the previous speaker calling for a return to a later start time suggesting that the 4pm start time was a barrier for some who wished to attend Commission meetings. Commission discussion of AGENDA ITEM #3 2004 COMMISSION MEETING SCHEDULE President Higueras suggested that a new Commission might wish to revisit the start time but that the current 4pm was acceptable to him. MOTION: Commissioner Bautista, seconded by Commissioner Steiman for approval of the proposed Commission Meetings Schedule for 2004 with the elimination of the January 15th date. ACTION: AYE 6-0 (Bautista, Chin, Coulter, Higueras, Steiman, and Strobin) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AGENDA ITEM # 4 LIBRARY HISTORY PLAQUES Commissioner Steve Coulter called attention to the addition of items suggested at previous meetings related to non-English Language Collections as well as the early days of the Council for Neighborhood Libraries. Commissioner Coulter then pointed out formatting improvements designed to make the plaques easier to read. He noted that there were a number of other issues still under consideration for inclusion as well as continuing efforts to clean up any typographical and spelling errors. President Higueras suggested that the revised draft should be posted on the Library's website with clear indicators to help call attention to the proposed history and direct anyone who might be interested how to submit comment. Public comment on AGENDA ITEM # 4 LIBRARY HISTORY PLAQUES An anonymous member of the public found the entire proposal questionable but in particular felt that the section related to the late former City Librarian John Franz unworthy characterization of his memory. Ms. Cathy Bremer, Librarian's Guild, suggested that this history would be more appropriate on the website rather than engraved plaques. Ms. Bremer also noted that donors rather than staff members, city librarians, or even commissioners were honored in the proposed history and that perhaps these plaques would be more appropriately located in the future home of the Friends of the Library. Ms. Andrea Grimes, Special Collections Librarian, commented that the Library rather than any special interest should assume responsibility for any placing history on its walls. Ms. Grimes found the proposed plaques exclusionary, and lacking in proper credit to those who founded the free public library. Ms. Grimes suggested instead a brochure, a website posting of a history developed by the library staff, and creation of an exhibition of a timeline of the Library's history at the Grove Street entry. Mr. Jim Kirwin expressed opposition to the proposed plaques as flawed and a travesty. Mr. Kirwin disparaged the proposed title and challenged the accuracy of the history, suggesting that the true story was best left to writers and to books. He suggested instead plaques list books available in the Library's collection on the history of the old and new Main Library and inquired regarding the proposed appearance of the plaques. Mr. Tom Carey, Main Library Librarian, questioned the accuracy of a report on the number of exhibits and suggested that there was division among library staff between those who received support from the Friends and those who did not. He suggested that the history did not belong on plaques, but instead in a brochure or in several cited books. Mr. Carey in particular questioned appropriateness of a single Commissioner's authorship of these plaques. Mr. Peter Warfield echoed comments concerning the book, Inscriptions, chronicling quotations engraved throughout the old Main Library and questioned the inclusivity of the point of view that shaped this history Commission discussion of AGENDA ITEM # 4 LIBRARY HISTORY PLAQUES Commissioner Coulter again repeated his request that anyone who felt that important stories that were missing come forward and join in improving the completeness of this history. Commissioner Coulter noted that the history's predominant emphasis on non-staff citizen activists rather than staff was the result of the way that this proposal evolved from the initial proposal for two plaques to the current much expanded version. Commission Coulter proposed to recheck portions related to former City Librarian John Franz and other sections called into question. Commissioner Coulter noted that his role was more of gatherer of materials brought to him by the activists and actual participants in the Library's history, longtime library staff, former Commissioners, and others in the community with a long history with the Library. Commissioner Coulter noted that this was an evolving document and that more changes would be incorporated. Vice President Steiman found the current proposal a bit wordy and suggested that perhaps plaques featuring important quotes as existed in the Old Main Library might work better in a ceremonial entry. Other materials she suggested could be put on the website or in a brochure. Commissioner Chin lauded recognition for citizens who came forward, and recommended that the plaques be inclusive and inspirational. Commissioner Chin also suggested that the detailed history would better be posted on the website or in a brochure. Commissioner Chin felt the plaques should recite comings and goings but instead focus on the inspirational. Commissioner Bautista suggested that the proposed history be featured in an article or other wider outreach that would draw public attention and bring in a wider point of view than just that of the Commissioners. Vice President Steiman suggested a listing of major milestones in the Library's history recognizing those who contributed could be created elsewhere. President Higueras called attention to the wide diversity of views concerning the best way to record the Library'shistory. He suggested that posting a expanded version on the Library's website could be good, and suggested that perhaps the recognition of heroes might be separated from a recitation of Library history. Commissioner Coulter reminded his colleagues that a primary point of this proposal was to call overdue attention to the many heroes who throughout the Library's history came forward in good times and bad to build the institution it is today. Commissioner Coulter pointed to the difficulties inherent in selecting a limited number of quotations, and in finding how to include all of the issues and the wide diversity of points of view on events in Library history that have been brought forward within the limitations imposed by the space available. Commissioner Coulter noted that creation of the plaques was within the Commission's prerogative and that they would be the Commission's official statement. Commissioner Coulter noted how complicated it had been to fully recognize and be inclusive of the heroes who stepped forward to sustain the Library. He noted that any quotes emphasized should be specifically related to the San Francisco Public Library, should appear handsome, and leave room for future history to be added. In response to a question by Commissioner Strobin, it was noted that the history would be up to the present. Commissioner Coulter again requested that anyone with specific recommendations please bring them to him. Commissioner Chin expressed distaste for plaques in principle preferring other means to recount the history. President Higueras thanked Commissioner Coulter for his exhaustive efforts in drafting the proposed history and again emphasized that it was important that the draft be made available on the website with clear direction as to how anyone could bring comments to Commissioner Coulter. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AGENDA ITEM #5 PUBLIC COMMENT An anonymous member of the public person expressed appreciation for the clarification of the situation regarding the North Beach Branch. This person noted that often in the past with the change of Mayoral administrations at least some Library Commissioners were continued in office in order to preserve continuity. Additionally, this individual commented on the subjective nature of attempts at recording history. Mr. Peter Warfield suggested that a bibliography of materials related to the Library's history would be useful and interesting. Mr. Tom Carey suggested that Mr. James Chaffee write a history of the Library, suggesting that it was important to consider who writes history, and that an effort be made to avoid the slippery slope of naming individuals and ethnic groups instead focusing on the wider community. Ms. Andrea Grimes suggested that an opportunity was being missed and instead of naming individuals she proposed use of the quotation that had been inscribed over the front door of the Old Main Library honoring everyone. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AGENDA ITEM #6 ADJOURNMENT MOTION: Commissioner Bautista, seconded by Commissioner Strobin that the meeting be adjourned. Public comment on AGENDA ITEM #6 ADJOURNMENT None offered ACTION: AYE 6-0 (Bautista, Chin, Coulter, Higueras, Strobin, and Steiman) The meeting was adjourned at 6:03pm. Michael Housh, Commission Secretary 11/17/03 Please note: These are draft Minutes subject to change by the Library Commission. Copies of Commission Minutes and handouts are available in the Office of the Commission Secretary, 100 Larkin Street, San Francisco, CA 94102 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Minutes of the regular Commission Meeting of July 17, 2003 Appendix A The Public Comment Summary Statements included in these Minutes are authorized by San Francisco Administrative Code Section 67.16. These summary statements are provided by the speaker. Their contents are neither generated by, nor subject to approval or verification of accuracy by, the San Francisco Public Library Commission. The number of members of the public who spoke anonymously at this meeting. 1 Public comment available for viewing in pdf format. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Explanatory documents: Copies of listed explanatory documents are available as follows: (1) from the Commission Secretary/Custodian of Records, Main Library, 6th Floor, (2) in the rear of the Koret Auditorium immediately before and during the meeting, and (3)to the extent possible, on the Library's Web site. Additional materials not listed as explanatory documents, if any, that are distributed to the Library Commissioners prior to or during the meeting in connection with any agenda item will be available to the public for inspection and copying in accordance with Government Code Section 54954.1 and Sunshine Ordinance §§ 67.9, 67.28(b) & 67.28(d).


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Aviva Premiership
Steenson and Sturgess agree new deals
ESPN Staff
December 23, 2012
Gareth Steenson is a key player for Exeter © Getty Images
Gareth Steenson and Brett Sturgess have both signed new two-year deals with the Exeter Chiefs.
Fly-half Steenson and prop Sturgess, both of whom helped the Chiefs win promotion to the Premiership, have agreed to extend their contracts at Sandy Park.
Exeter have now re-signed 12 players this season and head coach Rob Baxter is delighted the latest duo have committed their futures to the club.
"Brett and Gareth have signed on so we are starting to get through the bones of a team, and what we have got together for next year is already looking pretty solid," said Baxter.
"What we have to do now is pin down the last few guys we want to from the current squad, then make sure the guys we want to bring in are there for us and that we work hard on getting them in. Right now, though, I am pretty comfortable with where we are."
© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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Doublett Surname Ancestry Results
Our indexes 1000-1999 include entries for the spelling 'doublett'. In the period you have requested, we have the following 2 records (displaying 1 to 2):
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doubel doubelday doubell doubenay douber doubert doubiggin doubina doubitzky doublard double doubledae doubleday doubledee doubledo doubledy doublegueght doubles doublet doubleth doubly douboais doubon douboulay doubouley doubourdien doubourdieu doubourgay doubourguay doubrigg doubrowsky doubt doubtfire doubting doubty doubuldey doubur doubyhouse doucas doucault
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text:
Court says pot smokers can be fired, even in Colo.
The Associated Press
DENVER – Medical and recreational marijuana may be legal in Colorado, but employers in the state can lawfully fire workers who test positive for the drug, even if it was used off duty, according to a court ruling Thursday.
The Colorado Court of Appeals found there is no employment protection for medical marijuana users in the state since the drug remains barred by the federal government.
"For an activity to be lawful in Colorado, it must be permitted by, and not contrary to, both state and federal law," the appeals court stated in its 2-1 conclusion.
The ruling concurs with court decisions in similar cases elsewhere and comes as businesses attempt to regulate pot use among employees in states where the drug is legal. Colorado and Washington state law both provide for recreational marijuana use. Several other states have legalized medical use. Police departments have been especially concerned since officers are sworn to uphold both state and federal laws.
The Colorado case involves Brandon Coats, 33, a telephone operator for Englewood, Colo.-based Dish Network LLC. Coats was paralyzed in a car crash as a teenager and has been a medical marijuana patient in the state since 2009.
He was fired in 2010 for failing a company drug test, though his employer didn't claim he was ever impaired on the job.
Coats sued to get his job back, but a trial court dismissed his claim in 2011. The judge agreed with Dish Network that medical marijuana use isn't a "lawful activity" covered by a state law intended to protect cigarette smokers from being fired for legal behavior off the clock. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, more than half of all states have such laws.
Dish Network did not return a call seeking comment.
Coats' attorney, Michael Evans, issued a statement saying the ruling has wide implications for Colorado marijuana laws.
"This case not only impacts Mr. Coats, but also some 127,816 medical marijuana patient-employees in Colorado who could be summarily terminated even if they are in legal compliance with Colorado state law," Evans noted.
Evans plans to ask the state Supreme Court to review the case.
Morgan Fox, spokesman for the Marijuana Policy Project in Washington, called it a setback.
"It's unfortunate, considering how much support there is for medical marijuana, that employers don't see this like any other medication," Fox said.
The Marijuana Policy Project said the ruling appears to be limited to state law because it does not fall under the federal Americans with Disabilities Act.
Judge John Webb dissented in the split decision, saying he couldn't find a case addressing whether Colorado judges should consider federal law in determining the meaning of a Colorado statute.
Marijuana supporters say the courts are discriminating against them because Colorado's Lawful Off-Duty Activities law protects workers being fired for legal behavior off the clock, citing cigarette smoking as a protected activity.
The court said lawmakers could act to change the law to protect people who use marijuana, but there have been no plans to do that at the state Capitol.
Colorado's amendment legalizing recreational marijuana doesn't give people a constitutional right to smoke pot and doesn't protect users from criminal prosecution, from being fired or from other negative consequences. Backers said smoking off the job was a gray area and warned people to be familiar with their employers' drug policies.
Coats told reporters Thursday afternoon that he obtained a prescription for medical marijuana to deal with debilitating muscle spasms that would otherwise prevent him from working. He has been looking for a job ever since being dismissed by Dish.
"I'm not going to get better anytime soon," said Coats. "I need the marijuana, and I don't want to go the rest of my life without holding a job."
The Washington state Supreme Court also has found that workers can be fired for using marijuana, even if authorized by the state's medical marijuana law.
Last year, a federal appeals court ruled against a cancer survivor in Battle Creek, Mich., who was fired from his job with Wal-Mart Stores Inc. after failing a drug test for marijuana. Joseph Casias had a medical marijuana card and said he used pot to alleviate symptoms of an inoperable brain tumor.
According to the Marijuana Policy Project, the California Supreme Court also has ruled that people could be fired for testing positive for marijuana. The Legislature passed a bill to change that in 2008, but it was vetoed.
In Arizona, however, a law approved by voters in 2010 forbids employers from terminating someone who possesses a state-issued card allowing them to use marijuana medically.
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Turkey calls German ambassador over spying claims
ANKARA, Turkey (AP) — Turkey on Monday summoned Germany's ambassador and demanded an explanation after an "unacceptable, inexcusable" report that Germany's foreign intelligence agency targeted NATO ally Turkey in addition to eavesdropping on U.S. officials' conversations.
German Ambassador Eberhard Pohl was also told that, if the reports were true, Turkey expected Germany to immediately stop any espionage targeting Turkey, according to the Foreign Ministry.
German magazine Der Spiegel reported Saturday that the agency, known by its German acronym BND, had inadvertently listened to calls made by U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry and predecessor Hillary Clinton. It also cited a confidential 2009 BND document listing Turkey as a target for intelligence gathering, but didn't say what that spying involved.
If true, Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said spying by Germany would be "unacceptable, inexcusable and would most certainly require an explanation."
He said he would speak with German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter-Steinmeier later Monday. German Foreign Ministry spokesman Martin Schaefer said Monday's meeting with the ambassador took place in a "friendly atmosphere."
The U.S. has not commented.
German officials would not confirm Der Spiegel's report. Government spokeswoman Christiane Wirtz said only that the government in July informed a parliamentary intelligence committee about some of the matters in the report and would inform it about the rest soon. The panel is sworn to secrecy.
Germany has complained for months about alleged American spy activity there, with reported eavesdropping on Chancellor Angela Merkel's cellphone prompting a rebuke and an ongoing German investigation.
Some German lawmakers defended the idea of spying on Turkey. Christian Flisek, of the governing Social Democrats, noted that it is "a geopolitically important country."
Geir Moulson in Berlin contributed.
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When it comes to buying or selling a home, we understand the importance of getting to know your REALTOR® as more than just a professional. Let's take this opportunity to introduce the hard-working people of the Century 21 Bachman & Associates Team. For this installment of our "Meet A REALTOR®" series we asked Gary Bachman the tough questions. ...


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Coiffures of Chelsea, art fair weekend:
Fred Wilson, "Reign" (2011). 2012 Pulse Art Fair.
His glass bead extensions hang from a cardboard globe.
Ruth Marten,"Tress." 2012 Pulse Art Fair.
Before she became a full time illustator/artist, Marten
worked as one of the first female tattooists in New York.
She currently has a show at Hosfelt Gallery.
Sheila Hicks, "Menhir" (1998-2004). Sikkema Jenkins
& Co. Hicks has been making fiber art for 50 years. This
piece is made of linen cord.


text:
|Birth Date:
|Saratoga, Calif.
|High School:
|Saratoga High School
|Undeclared Business
Watch John in Action
John and Doubles Partner Ilya Ostinsev after the NCAA Tournament Victory over then-No. 19 Texas
2011-12 Awards
Highest Ranked Player in Final ITA Polls in School History: No. 77
Second Team All-WCC Singles
Second Team All-WCC Doubles
AS A SOPHOMORE IN 2011-12: SINGLES: Led Santa Clara in wins with 25 while amassing a 25-7 record … achieved the highest individual ranking in a season-ending poll in Santa Clara history at No. 77 … served as the Broncos' No. 2 singles player all season … appeared once in the No. 1 spot against UC Santa Cruz on the opening day of the season (Jan. 21) … won 16 of his 18 matches between Feb. 18 and Apr. 21 … picked up an impressive win against then-No. 91 Patrick Pohlman of then-No. 19 San Diego… defeated two ranked opponents during the NCAA Tournament, defeating then-No. 102 Daniel Whitehead of Texas and then-No. 29 Ryan Thacher … DOUBLES: Played in Santa Clara's No. 1 doubles with freshman Ilya Osintsev … earned WCC Doubles Team of the Month honors during March for their stellar play, including a victory over the nation's then-No. 2 doubles team, Finn Tearney and Alex Lompart of Pepperdine … won totaled six WCC doubles wins including wins against: then-No. 38 BYU, LMU, then-No. 7 Pepperdine, Saint Mary's and Gonzaga … teamed up with Osintsev to pick up two NCAA Tournament wins, defeating the nation's No. 39 ranked team of Chris Camillone and David Holiner of then-No. 19 Texas and a 8-6 victory over Denis Lin and Ryan Thacher of then-No. 11 Stanford … finished the 2011-12 season at No. 68 with Ostinsev … the tandem finish ranked No. 8 regionally.
AS A FRESHMAN IN 2010-11: Finished the season 15-10 overall and a record of 2-3 in WCC dual matches … earned All-WCC Honorable Mention honors … made SCU debut at the ITA Regional tournament with a win on Oct. 15 vs. Portland's No. 17 seeded Bryan Thorp 7-5, 6-0 … played primarily at No. 3 singles but also appeared at No. 4 spot … had four-match win streak from Nov. 6 to Jan. 26 and five-match win streak from Feb. 13 to Mar. 7 defeating then-No. 71 Arkansas, then-No. 60 UCSB, Cal Poly, Nevada and then-No. 71 Penn … played doubles with Maxime Armengaud, Eugene Muchynski and Keith Kamono throughout the season … with Armengaud, compiled 3-3 overall record and 0-2 in WCC contests at all positions and had four-match win streak from Nov. 6 to Jan. 26 … with Muchynski, went 4-7 overall and 2-2 in WCC play at No. 3 doubles … with Kamono, scored an 8-4 victory against Nevada on Mar. 5.
HIGH SCHOOL: 2010 graduate of Saratoga High School in Saratoga, Calif. … coached by Tom Uyehara … led 22-4 team record in his senior year … won third place at Newport Invitational … made all-American at Newport Invitational … made finalists of CCS and Norcal tournaments … played No.1 singles in sophomore and senior years … recorded an undefeated record as a sophomore.
PERSONAL: Born in Scottsdale, Ariz. … parents are Mike and Geri Lamble … father played tennis at SCU … uncle George Kovacevich played baseball at SCU … has one elder sister, Kelly (19) … enjoys sports, video games and spending time with friends … his career goals are to win WCC Tournament and play in NCAA Tournament … studying in the Leavey School of Business.


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Lakeland College Joins Institute of International Education Coalition to Double Number of Students Who Study Abroad by End of Decade
Lakeland College has committed to doubling the number of its undergraduate students who study abroad over the next five years. The college made the pledge when it joined the Institute of International Education (IIE)'s Generation Study Abroad initiative to double the number of American students who study abroad by the end of the decade.
Leading up to IIE's centennial celebration in 2019, Generation Study Abroad will engage educators at all levels and stakeholders in the public and private sectors to drive meaningful, innovative action to increase the number of U.S. students who have the opportunity to gain international experience through academic study abroad programs, as well as internships, service learning and non-credit educational experiences.
Lakeland is among the lead partners who have committed to specific, measureable actions that will help reach this ambitious goal; the result will be thousands more American students graduating with the international experience necessary for success in a globalized world.
Building on its nearly 100-year commitment to study abroad, IIE has committed $2 million of its own funds to this initiative over the next five years. Lakeland will create a scholarship fund for study abroad, seek out new relationships with international institutions and develop an internship program at the college's Tokyo campus.
"Lakeland recognizes that, regardless of your career path, a study abroad, intern abroad or other international exchange experience will better prepare you for the global economy," said Jen Siebert, director of international programs. "The college is committed to providing our students with ways to diversify their resumes and make them stand out to future employers by encouraging study abroad."
Tiffany Miller, a senior from Mason, Wis., majoring in German, studied at Lakeland College Japan in spring 2011 and at the University of Kassel in Germany in spring 2012.
"Studying abroad has helped me gain more independence and confidence in myself and my goals," Miller said. "It has really changed my perspective on life in general, as well. I would encourage any undergraduate student to strongly consider a study abroad experience."
Over the past few years, more than 80 Lakeland students have gone abroad to more than seven countries. Lakeland offers both semester-long study abroad opportunities as well as short-term, faculty-led courses conducted during the college's three-week May Term.
In addition to its two-year campus in Tokyo, Lakeland has sister schools in China, Korea, Germany, Luxembourg and Colombia that provide study abroad prospects. Recent connections with study abroad organizations such as CEA and AIFS will provide Lakeland students with a more varied pool of locations around the globe for study abroad.
Lakeland is one of more than 150 higher education institutions from 41 U.S. states that have signed the Generation Study Abroad Commitment, including large state and private universities, liberal arts colleges, community colleges and historically black colleges and universities and other minority serving institutions.
The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and several foreign governments, as well as key higher education associations and study abroad provider organizations, have also pledged to support the goals of the initiative. Recognizing the importance of an internationally focused workforce, IIE is also actively seeking the participation of corporations and the business community.
"Globalization has changed the way the world works, and employers are increasingly looking for workers who have international skills and expertise," says Dr. Allan Goodman, President of IIE. "Studying abroad must be viewed as an essential component of a college degree and critical to preparing future leaders."
IIE is launching Generation Study Abroad because it believes the number and proportion of today's students who graduate with an educational experience abroad is far too low. Currently, fewer than 10 percent of all U.S. college students study abroad at some point in their academic career.
According to the Open Doors Report on International and Educational Exchange released by IIE last November, 295,000 students studied abroad in 2011/12 in credit-bearing and non-credit programs. Generation Study Abroad aims to grow participation in study abroad so that the annual total reported will reach 600,000 by the end of the decade.
With 2.6 million students graduating with associates or baccalaureate degrees each year, IIE believes it is clear that major segments of America's young people are not getting the international experience they will need to advance their careers and participate in the global economy, or to work together across borders to address global issues.
For more information on IIE's Generation Study Abroad initiative, and a complete list of commitment partners, go to: iie.org/generationstudyabroad.


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Daughters of American Revolution Honor Soldiers, Supporter
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, July 3, 2006 - The Daughters of the American Revolution honored two soldiers and the founder of an organization that builds adaptive homes for wounded servicemembers at their 115th annual meeting here June 30.
The evening's events included an address by Marine Gen. Peter Pace, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who accepted the organization's Patriot award on behalf of the nation's servicemembers. Later, two special soldiers were honored.
Army Lt. Thomas E. Ceremuga received the Dr. Anita Newcomb McGee Award. McGee, the founder of the 105-year-old Army Nurse Corps, was a physician and director of the DAR's hospital corps during the Spanish-American War of 1898.
Ceremuga is "an extraordinarily gifted certified registered nurse and anesthetist" and an excellent Army Nurse Corps officer and educator, DAR President-General Presley Merritt Wagoner said. Ceremuga is the Army's premier subject matter expert and educator regarding the use of anesthesia to treat wounded soldiers, Wagoner added.
Army Maj. Gen. Gale S. Pollock, chief of the Army Nurse Corps, was on hand for the ceremony. Ceremuga said he was honored to receive the award, noting Army nurses are deployed worldwide in support of the global war on terror.
"Army and military nurses have contributed significant and exciting scientific discoveries," Ceremuga said, "and provide admiral service that directly supports the care of soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines as they serve our nation at war."
The DAR honored another distinguished soldier, Sgt. Leigh Ann Hester, with the Margaret Cochran Corbin Award. Hester, who couldn't attend the ceremony to receive her award, is the first woman soldier since World War II to receive the Silver Star Medal for valor.
Hester's squad was accompanying a supply convoy in Iraq on March 20, 2005, when insurgents launched an ambush. Hester, a Kentucky National Guard soldier, led her squad in a successful counter attack, killing three insurgents with her rifle. Two other members of Hester's unit also received the Silver Star for their actions that day. Hester, a member of the 617th Military Police Company, was 23 years old at the time of her heroics.
The DAR also recognized America Supports You member John S. Gonsalves, the 40-year-old founder and president of "Homes for Our Troops" based in Tauton, Mass. He received the DAR's Medal of Honor. Gonsalves' nonprofit organization provides specially equipped homes for wounded servicemembers. His organization is part of the Defense Department's America Supports You program, which assists U.S. servicemembers and their families in myriad ways and spotlights the support they enjoy from the American public and the nation's corporate sector.
Gonsalves, a former contractor, told American Forces Press Service that he was "just thrilled" to receive the DAR award.
"I never expected to get something quite like this," he said, noting the honor "is very humbling."
Gonsalves said "Homes for Our Troops" has committed to build 20 homes for wounded servicemembers, with seven completed.
"Supporting our troops is something that's been going on since the Revolutionary War," Gonsalves said. "And, I think that there's been times in our country's history where the support wasn't quite up to par."
U.S. servicemembers serving in the global war against terrorism definitely need the support of the American public, Gonsalves said.
"I like to think that there are two kinds of people out there -- those who serve and those who support," Gonsalves said. "Maybe not everyone can serve in the military, but everybody can certainly support them."
The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution was founded in 1890 to promote patriotism, preserve American history, and support better education for America's children. Its members can trace their lineage back to the patriots who won American independence during the Revolutionary War. The DAR is one of the world's largest service organizations, with 168,000 members and 3,000 chapters worldwide. The organization publishes the magazine, "American Spirit."
Related Sites:
Daughters of the American Revolution [http://www.DAR.org/]
Homes for Our Troops [http://www.homesforourtroops.org/site/PageServer]
America Supports You [http://www.americasupportsyou.mil/]
Related Article:
JCS Chairman Salutes U.S. Military, Families, at DAR Event [http://www.dod.mil/news/Jul2006/20060703_5572.html]
NOTE: View the original version of this web page on DefenseLINK,
the official website of the U.S. Department of Defense, at


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New Colorado State AD Jack Graham taking questions for "Fan Mail"
New Colorado State athletic director Jack Graham made a big, bold splash when he replaced Paul Kowalczyk earlier this month.
Saying, "I want to see our football team consistently be a top-25 team, competing in a bowl game every year," Graham's first major move was to fire football coach Steve Fairchild and replace him with Alabama offensive coordinator Jim McElwain.
Graham has also talked about bringing an on-campus football stadium to CSU.
"I want it to happen fast," Graham said. "I didn't come here to babysit and maintain the status quo. We need to put together a vision for the stadium."
Clearly Graham, the former Rams quarterback, is dreaming big in Fort Collins. And he wants to hear from you.
Graham has agreed to take readers' questions for the next edition of The Denver Post's "Fan Mail" feature. So, Ram Nation, get your queries ready. Send them by email to to firstname.lastname@example.com. Please be sure and include your first name and were you are from. Questions will be accepted through Wednesday morning.


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When it comes to style, Martha Hunt is a constant inspiration. With a taste for jewelry and accessories that are fun, feminine and always graceful, the model shares her Swarovski essentials with us for this November. A classic Iconic Swan pendant is a dependable and attractive piece that goes with everything, an ideal starting point for the busy and exciting lifestyle of a top model.
A busy daily routine means items like watches and pens are a must, but there's no reason to withhold the sparkle. Martha's silver tone Cosmic Rock watch is sleek and modern, with a brilliant band that dazzles with Swarovski Crystal Rocks. A Crystalline Stardust ballpoint pen turns routine scribbles into an elegant experience.
The Further collection, marked by its romantic and contemporary circular designs, is a favorite choice. A simple linked double ring pendant, lined with Swarovski crystals, dazzles at the neck, while a refined ring and a matching pair of earrings sparkle in clear Swarovski crystals: a sophisticated option for everyday glamour.


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4 Moms Who Run Successful Family Businesses
These "mom-trepreneurs" prove when hiring more family members help run the business, everyone profits.
As any seasoned entrepreneur will tell you, passion and drive will only get you so far in the business world. Goals and start-up cash figure in too—as does plenty of help. When it came time to hire, the moms leading these creative companies turned to their kids, siblings, even parents. They've proven that when more family members pitch in, everyone profits.
Company: Coton Colors, Tallahassee, Florida
Biz whiz: Laura Johnson, 49
Works with: Daughters Kyle, 21, Sara Kate, 20, and Mary Parker, 17; Laura's mom and dad, Dee and Bud Blank; Laura's sister, Marcie Parks, 51, and her daughters, Courtney, 26, Taylor, 24, and Logan, 22
Big idea: Colorful, brightly painted ceramics and housewares
Founded: 1995
Sales: $5 million annually
Inspiration: Seventeen years ago, Laura was at a ceramics studio having her baby daughter Mary Parker's handprints preserved as a keepsake when she saw unfinished clay plates she thought would look great personalized. The admittedly "artsy" mom bought six, painting them in vibrant hues for her daughters and nieces. Family and friends went wild for her handiwork, and Laura was inundated with requests for similar dishes. She already had a home-based business selling hand-painted cotton clothing called Coton Colors, so she decided to incorporate ceramics into the mix.
Teaming up: While Laura, as she puts it, "painted frantically in the garage" during her kids' naps or when they were at preschool, her parents, Dee and Bud, transported pottery for firing and boxed orders. Big sister Marcie accompanied Laura to home parties, her initial method of selling, throughout Florida. Husband Milton built displays and manned the home front while Laura worked. Soon the ceramics were so popular locally that Marcie convinced Laura to move into studio space so she could hire help, produce more, and eventually go national. Laura coaxed Dad into becoming CFO, appointed Mom head of shipping, and used a $25,000 loan for rent and equipment. The first Coton Colors studio opened in early 1997, and the tableware earned rave reviews from buyers nationwide.
Growing strong: As the company expanded, family members assumed new roles. Marcie took over the ornament division, which she still runs. Laura's daughters remember blasting music while packing boxes. Thanks to the joint effort, Coton Colors products are now available at over 3,000 retailers, and the company has two stores of its own—one managed by Dee in Tallahassee, and the other by Marcie in Tampa, with help from her daughters. Kyle designed last year's Christmas line and will join the company full-time after graduating from college with an art and marketing degree this spring. Mary Parker and Sara Kate work in the stores and showrooms on weekends and school breaks. "People often ask me, 'How can you work with your family?'" says Laura. "My answer is, we just really enjoy each other's company."
Company: FashionPlaytes.com, Beverly, Massachusetts
Biz whiz: Sarah McIlroy, 40
Works with: Daughter Madeleine, 9
Big idea: Customizable clothes for girls ages 5-12
Founded: 2009
Sales: Approximately $1 million in 2011
Inspiration: Sarah never forgot her sixth-grade graduation dress, just one of several she sketched as a child for her mother, Rosemary Baldwin, to sew. "I loved picking out fabrics and trims and having outfits unlike anyone else's," says Sarah, mom of Madeleine, 9, Liam, 7, and Maeve, 6. But it wasn't until Madeleine began collaborating with Grandma on one-of-a-kind clothes that Sarah wondered if the concept was marketable. She believed that parents of tween girls wanted age-appropriate alternatives to stuff that seemed "too teenager-ish" and envisioned a website where girls could design clothes that looked cool but would also be mom-approved, a win-win. They'd pick from high-quality basics like tops, bottoms, and dresses, then add appliqués, jewels, ribbons, and other trims to end up with something unique.
Teaming up: Madeleine helped choose base pieces and embellishments while Sarah searched for manufacturers to produce the clothes, but learned it would cost a fortune. Needing someone with industry experience to figure out an affordable strategy, she hired an expert. Together, they decided to produce the unadorned garments overseas and customize them in the U.S. Sarah worked on her business plan to prove need and profitability, interviewed developers to create the website, and left her full-time marketing job in May 2008 to focus on getting funding. She shopped the concept to investors with PowerPoint presentations and giant paper dolls, swapping out Velcro trims to show how girls make an outfit their own.
Growing strong: In March 2009, Sarah secured $1.5 million from two venture capitalists, both dads of tween girls. The cash infusion allowed her to start production and develop the website. Madeleine recruited friends to join her on the Fashion Advisory Board, weighing in on styles in exchange for site gift certificates. Since FashionPlaytes.com launched in November 2009, more than 800,000 unique garments have been created. Avatars and a Runway Challenge game are now popular as FashionPlaytes.com expands into an online social community. Madeleine's role has grown too. "It's fun and makes me feel important," she says. She blogs, models, tests games, and suggests new lines (like PJs and rompers). "Through working together," says Sarah, "I've watched her blossom from a reserved young girl into an independent, confident young lady."
Company: Origami Owl Custom Jewelry, Chandler, Arizona
Biz whiz: Chrissy Weems, 38
Working with: Daughter Isabella, 15
Big idea: Custom-made lockets
Founded: June 2010
Sales: $300,000 in 2011
Inspiration: When Isabella mentioned that she hoped to receive a car for her 16th birthday, her parents, Chrissy and Warren (who have four other children, Warren, 12, Brandon, 10, Weston, 8, and Addie, 5), proposed she launch a business to earn money to put toward her own set of wheels, promising to match any cash she raised. Isabella trolled the Web for big-bucks ideas beyond babysitting. She zeroed in on jewelry after seeing a YouTube video about a tween who made over a million dollars selling bottle cap necklaces. She remembered admiring a glass locket a family friend wore and told Chrissy that she'd like to do something like that, but with charms. Her vision: see-through lockets that could be filled with trinkets meaningful to the wearer. Her goal: earn $2,500 in two years for a used car.
Teaming up: Isabella withdrew $350 from savings—doubled by her parents—and partnered with Mom, who had entrepreneurial experience. They purchased lockets, charms, and chains from a wholesaler and made samples, which sold immediately at a friend's salon. "People really felt a connection," says Isabella, remembering how one woman filled hers with angel wings, a birthstone, and baby feet to memorialize a lost child. "The dream of buying the car made Isabella super driven," adds Chrissy. "I'd pick her up from someone's house and she'd say, 'I just sold another $1,000 worth of lockets!'" Fans constantly asked how they could order more.
Growing strong: With $30,000 saved from sales, the pair rented a mall kiosk during the holidays. It opened on Black Friday 2010, grossing $26,000 in five days. They signed a yearlong lease, and Mom took over full-time, with Isabella helping after school and on weekends. In January 2012 they closed that space and took Origami Owl (named in honor of their favorite things) national, shifting to a direct sales model, where mothers and daughters (ages 14 and up) sell at home parties. Chrissy runs the company, with her brother-in-law, Jeff Reinhart, now on board as chief operating officer, and her sister Jessica Reinhart handling marketing. Isabella fits trend forecasting around homework, piano, and theater practice. She looks forward to speaking at their sales conference, a motivational event for company consultants, and to finally buying that car. "The teen years can be a time when kids pull away from you," says Chrissy. "But this business bonds us together."
Company: Bombinizz, Pelham, New York
Biz whiz: Maria Rosell, 47
Works with: Daughters Erika, 16, Katie, 13, and Kimberly, 10; Maria's mom, Betty Rodriguez, 78
Big idea: Bags large enough to hold bed pillows to take on sleepovers
Founded: 2010
Sales: $7,000, since late 2011
Inspiration: When Maria's girls packed for sleepovers, the pillows that never fit in their backpacks or duffles ended up on the floor of the car—which made Mom crazy. Aiming to keep their gear together and clean, Maria sketched a long rectangular bag with handles on a Post-It note and asked her mother, Betty, to sew some before an upcoming Girl Scouts overnight. Betty created lightweight, roomy red bags big enough for the pillows, adding extra pockets for toiletries and cell phones. "Where'd you get those?" asked troop moms, offering to pay $30 for one. Maria realized they just might have a business.
Teaming up: Betty was willing to make more for test marketing, and Maria's daughters picked fabrics based on personal preference and friends' feedback. They gave bags as birthday presents, which led to calls for more. We'd better give this thing a name, thought Maria. She settled on Bombini—a scientific term for "bumblebee"—after one buzzed by her window. The girls suggested adding two z's at the end to signify catching zzz's, and pronounced it bom-BEAN-eez. Erika, an aspiring graphic designer, created the logo. A lawyer buddy filed for trademarks and patents, and a photographer pal shot publicity photos of Katie, Kimberly, and friends with the bags. Betty kept sewing so they'd have enough to sell at the 2010 Pelham Fall Fest, a new neighborhood street fair.
Growing strong: Holiday boutique organizers and a local retailer expressed interest in Bombinizz. But to be able to fill bigger orders, Maria knew she'd need a manufacturer and more business knowledge. She spent most of 2011 doing research and using ThomasNet.com to find a reliable production facility. That Christmas season Bombinizz sold briskly locally. In early 2012 Maria debuted the bags at an Atlanta trade show, attracting attention from monogramming stores and hospital gift shops. Her wish is for the bag to be carried in Bed Bath & Beyond, with a line of travel products—and her kids are committed to getting her there. "Though junior year is really busy, I love that I can use my graphic skills to help Mom while building my college portfolio," says Erika. According to Maria, the key to getting the kids' cooperation is to ask, not demand, and involve them in decisions. Kimberly agrees. "This is our company," she says proudly.
Read more of these families' tips and success secrets here.
Help Is at Hand
Think you have a workable concept that will stand out in the marketplace? These websites offer solid advice for turning today's dream into tomorrow's reality.
U.S. Small Business Administration
A well-developed home page with topics including Starting & Managing a Business, Loans & Grants, Counseling & Training, and links to local business development centers.
Information on hiring, taxes, estate planning, sibling rivalry, and other key issues.
The Family Business Network
Connects members through chapters, networking events, internship programs, and advocacy initiatives.
Family Business Magazine
Assorted articles, blogs, and information regarding conferences.
Another Helpful Resource
Mom, Inc.
Authors Meg Mateo Ilasco and Cat Seto have written a book about juggling work and parenting that is easy to pick up, put down, and get right back into later—in other words, ideal for a busy mother. Topics explored in Mom, Inc. (Chronicle Books) include figuring out what you want to do, pricing products or services, launching a website and blog and more, plus interesting, honest-sounding interviews with successful entrepreneurs. Never brain-numbing the way traditional business books can be, this cheerful pick offers a great mix of practical info and inspiration.
Originally published in the May 2012 issue of Family Circle magazine.


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All is Bright in this Illinois Home
Christmas Eve is a feast for the senses at a Lake Forest, Illinois, home
All may not be calm on Christmas Eve in this classical mid-20th-century home in Lake Forest, Illinois. With a family that includes five kids—from preteen to college-age—there's a lot going on. But the holiday vibe is as low-key as it is picture-perfect: holiday playlist cued up and candles flickering, with fresh tulips, roses, and aromatic greens laced throughout. And it's happy, boosted by sunshine-orange accents, starting with the clementines woven into the evergreen garland that frames the front door.
Photography: Werner Straube
Interior designer: Shelley Johnstone Paschke, Shelley Johnstone Design, 140 E. Ridge Lane, Lake Forest, IL 60045; 847/235-2076, shelleydesign.com.
Lanterns at front door: original to home.
Planters: Munder-Skiles, munder-skiles.com.
Greek key edging (custom design); garage lanterns (custom): Shelley Johnstone Design, shelleydesign.com.
Festive Entry
"Even the type on my Christmas cards is orange," says interior designer Shelley Johnstone Paschke, who created the warm, welcoming home she shares with husband Brett and their blended family: her sons, Hunter, 20, and Ford, 17, and Brett's sons, Will, 15, and Luke, 14, and his daughter, Lauren, 12.
"Fresh flowers and candles are very important to me. That feels like home," Shelley says. Just no poinsettias, please. Her mom owned a floral shop, and she saw plenty of those when she and her sister were growing up in Madison, Wisconsin.
In the foyer, swags of greenery and holiday flowers dress up the staircase and an antique console table.
Console table by stairs (Regency shelf motif with custom black granite top): vintage.
Bench: owner's collection.
Formal Dining Room
Simplicity, elegance, and attention to details are the hallmarks of Shelley's style, and that doesn't change when she's decorating for the holidays. "I like to keep it clean and fresh, with beautiful pinecones and greens, apricots and oranges, gold accents."
A formally set dining table notwithstanding, that even means going a bit rogue on the food. "We don't do the big roast," she says. "We like hors d'oeuvres: shrimp, cashews, fun dips." Then it's sandwiches and light fare to save room for homemade grasshopper pie.
A chandelier from Niermann Weeks sparkles above the antique mahogany table. The walls are upholstered in a Fortuny-style damask and antique chairs are upholstered in chocolate-colored Edelman leather.
Wall fabric ("Fortuny style Venezia Portofino" #SSF200c, damask, discontinued): Brunschwig & Fils, brunschwig.com.
Dining table (mahogany); side chairs: antique.
Chair leather (chocolate brown): Edelman Leather, edelmanleather.com.
Chandelier ("Iron & Crystal Chandelier"): Niermann Weeks, niermannweeks.com.
Area rug (sisal): Stark Carpet, starkcarpet.com.
Sideboard: owner's collection.
Lamps (opaline, vintage): Donald Stuart Antiques, 847/501-4454.
Placemats (linen): Shellkare Designs, shellkare.com.
Water goblets ("Kelsey"): Waterford, waterford.com.
Champagne flutes ("Pearl"): William Yeoward, williamyeowardcrystal.com.
China: antique Staffordshire.
Soup bowls: Lenox, lenox.com.
Tea glasses: owner's collection.
Flatware: antique.
Flowers on table: Lord & Mar Ltd., 847/295-5456.
Dining Room Sideboard
"There are no rules," Shelley says—and that applies to decorating too. "Go with what's comfortable." Fancy details sprinkled through rooms feel casually elegant. Rich embellishments are informed by Shelley's stint in London, where she studied at the Inchbald School of Design and was exposed to dressmaker details such as Turkish corners, knife pleats, and application of trims on pillows and lampshades, as well as lacquering, gold leafing, and the creation of soft tinted ceilings and cashmere walls.
Vintage opaline lamps sit on an antique mahogany-and-satinwood sideboard.
Sideboard; mirror over commode: antique.
Lamps on commode (opaline, vintage): Donald Stuart Antiques, 847/501-4454.
Reindeer: Pasquesi Home and Gardens, pasquesi.com.
Foo dogs: Shelley Johnstone Design, shelleydesign.com.
Angel: Neiman Marcus, neimanmarcus.com.
Chairs flanking sideboard: antique.
An embroidered linen placemat from ShellKare is topped with antique green-and-gold Staffordshire china and a Lenox soup bowl.
Pretty Living Room
With her global experiences, she happily embraced the idea of layering. In fine European interiors, "nothing is from the same place," she says. Shelley adds to that collected look with antiques and finds from travels, rounding out with custom-designed pieces.
An elegant George Smith sofa from London mingles with lacquer, faux tortoise, and brass tables. Orange and gold accents dress the living room mantel.
Wall paint ("Feather Down" #OC-6); ceiling and trim paint ("Linen White" #912): Benjamin Moore, benjaminmoore.com.
Area rug (Aubusson): Stark, starkcarpet.com.
Sofa: George Smith London, georgesmith.co.uk.
Sofa fabric (damask in color, Elephant, discontinued): Peter Jones London, johnlewis.com.
Striped pillows on sofa ("Bellini Stripe" #103225, discontinued): Cowtan & Tout, cowtan.com.
Lounge chair: Edward Ferrell + Lewis Mittman, ef-lm.com.
Chair fabric; tape trim on skirt: Scalamandré, scalamandre.com.
Fauteuil: antique.
Fauteuil fabric: Edelman Leather, edelmanleather.com.
Brass side table: Viya Home, viyahome.com. Available through Stephanie Odegard, stephanie odegard.com.
Coffee table (custom, lacquered brown); sofa side table (custom, tortoise finish): Shelley Johnstone Design, shelleydesign.com.
Mirror (Italian): antique.
Christmas Tree
Meet Adler, a West Highland terrier. He's counting how many presents are for him! Simple metallic ball ornaments adorn the tree, while an angel tree topper brings the touch of orange.
Pretty Living Room
For the living room, Shelley designed a banquette to blend with upholstered pieces and antiques she purchased in London. Those are teamed with mid-20th-century modern glass and brass tables, with notes of faux tortoise and chocolate lacquer.
Classical motifs like Greek keys are consistent throughout, and animal prints are repeated fun choices. "I love the juxtaposition of traditional and modern," she says. "That keeps it timeless and fresh. The brass is a little '70s vibe."
Drapery and trim: Scalamandré, scalamandre.com.
Drapery hardware: Van Gregory & Norton, vangregoryandnorton.com. Through Dessin Fournir, dessinfournir.com.
Roman shade ("Bellini Stripe" #103225, discontinued): Cowtan & Tout, cowtan.com.
Banquette (custom): Shelley Johnstone Design, shelleydesign.com.
Banquette fabric (silk velvet, by Old World Weavers): Stark, starkcarpet.com.
Banquette trim ("Aristotle Greek Key"): Samuel & Sons, samuelandsons.com.
Pillow on banquette, center; pillows on chairs (silk ikat); pillow on banquette, right: Bermingham & Co, berminghamfabrics.com. Available through Brunschwig & Fils, brunschwig.com.
Bergères: antique.
Bergère fabric (silk velvet): Brunschwig & Fils, brunschwig.com.
Trim on bergères: Scalamandré, scalamandre.com.
Cocktail tables (glass-and-brass, midcentury): Négrel Antiques, negrelantiques.com.
Architectural drawings: owner's collection.
Flower photograph behind bergère: Shelley Johnstone Design, shelleydesign.com.
Neutral Solarium
In the sunroom just off the living room, a tufted "Kames" sofa from Crate & Barrel is flanked by painted wicker chairs with checked cushions.
Paint ("Spring in Aspen" #954): Benjamin Moore, benjaminmoore.com.
Sofa ("Kames"): Crate & Barrel, crateandbarrel.com.
Pillow fabric ("Chevron," by Michelle Nussbaumer Textiles): Ceylon et Cie, ceylonetcie.com.
Pillow fabric ("Leopard," by Old World Weavers): Stark Carpet, starkcarpet.com.
Sofa end table: vintage.
Chairs: owner's collection.
Chair and drapery fabric (discontinued): Brunschwig & Fils, brunschwig.com.
Coffee table (custom): Shelley Johnstone Design, shelleydesign.com.
Area rug: jute.
Simple Kitchen
Interior designer Shelley Johnstone Paschke enjoys hot cocoa with Lauren and Hunter in the understated kitchen with black lacquered cabinets.
Wall paint ("Dove Wing" #OC-18); cabinetry paint ("Black Satin" #2131-10): Benjamin Moore, benjaminmoore.com.
Cabinetry; hardware: custom.
Countertop: Carrara marble.
Refrigerator: Sub-Zero, subzero-wolf.com.
Wall ovens: Wolf, subzero-wolf.com.
Island faucet: Dornbracht, dornbracht.com.
Lucite bar stool: discontinued.
Black bar stools: owner's collection.
Gingerbread house: Gerhard's European Desserts, gerhardsdesserts.com.
Family Room
Neutral tones in a mix of patterns and textures play happily in family room. Mirrored panels on a set of doors enhance the space.
Wallcovering (grass cloth): Stark Carpet, starkcarpet.com.
Area rug (wool): Deerpath Carpet & Rug, deerpathcarpet.com.
Sofa (discontinued): Crate & Barrel, crateandbarrel.com.
Drapery and patterned pillow fabric ("Sassari Ikat" #2007125): Lee Jofa, leejofa.com.
Blanket on sofa ("Avalon"): Hermes, hermes.com.
Etching behind sofa (Dora, by Picasso): Atlas Galleries, atlasgalleries.com.
Cocktail tables ("Jacques Cocktail Table"): Jonathan Adler, jonathanadler.com.
Stool: vintage.
Stool fabric ("Ocelot" #34476-1, discontinued): Clarence House, clarencehouse.com.
Armchair ("Petrie"): Crate & Barrel, crateandbarrel.com.
Chest: vintage Chinese.
Lamp on chest: Shelley Johnstone design, shelleydesign.com.
Art by chest: owner's collection.
Art above sofa (Picasso etching of Dora): Atlas Galleries, atlasgalleries.com.
Trellis Room
To dress a room that was enclosed during remodeling, Shelley had a trellis applied to the walls and painted the ceiling the vivid hue of an Hermès box. "I love bursts of color in fairly neutral spaces," she says.
A starburst mirror from Mecox hangs above a banquette covered in an Old World Weavers velvet and trimmed with Samuel & Sons Greek key-motif tape.
Wall and trim paint: Benjamin Moore, benjaminmoore.com.
Ceiling paint: custom lacquered to match Hermès box orange.
Trellis on wall and hanging lantern (custom design by Shelley Johnstone Design): Northworks Architects + Planners, nwks.com.
Banquette (custom): Shelley Johnstone Design, shelleydesign.com.
Banquette fabric ("Taos Velvet," by Old World Weavers): Stark Carpet, starkcarpet.com.
Greek Key tape trim ("Aristotle Greek Key"): Samuel & Sons, samuelandsons.com.
Iron chairs (Italian style): vintage.
Chair leather: Edelman Leather, edelmanleather.com.
Mirror ("Starburst Mirror"): Mecox, mecox.com.
Iron coffee table ("Chinese Fret Coffee Table"): Niermann Weeks, niermannweeks.com.
Cozy Library
She couldn't imagine living in any other home. "It's comfortable and pretty and also functional for our busy, modern lifestyle," Shelley says—particularly at Christmas. "It was important to make the house a place we all love. And everyone loves being here."
Inspired by a vintage tortoiseshell box, Shelley had decorative painters replicate the look on the ceiling of the library. An antelope-pattern carpet from Stark anchors vintage rattan chairs with chevron linen cushions.
Area rug ("Antelope Ax"): Stark Carpet, starkcarpet.com.
Decorative painting on ceiling (custom design by Shelley Johnstone Design): Simes Studios, simesstudios.com.
Rattan chairs: vintage.
Seat cushions: Rogers & Goffigon, 203/532-8068.
Lithograph (by Salvador Dali): owner's collection.
Backgammon table (made from Brunschwig & Fils tea table): custom.
Light over bookshelf ("Boston Functional Library Wall Light" #SL2922): Circa Lighting, circalighting.com.
Drapery ("Gramercy Park"/Cream #D07721): Coraggio, coraggio.com.
Tree skirt (from Rome): owner's collection.
Library Detail
Shelley converted the top of a Brunschwig & Fils tea table into a backgammon board. A Salvador Dali lithograph hangs among vintage boxes.
A delicate palette of cream and light blue dominates the bedroom. Swaths of cream fabric crape the windows and headboard. Pink monogrammed throw pillows inject a small pop of color.
Cream wall paint ("Linen White" #912); blue wall paint ("Heaven on Earth" #1661): Benjamin Moore, benjaminmoore.com.
Carpet: Stark Carpet, starkcarpet.com.
Crown (custom design by Shelley Johnstone Design): Simes Studios, simesstudios.com.
Interior bed drapery ("Bellini Stripe" #103225, discontinued): Cowtan & Tout, cowtan.com.
Bed: owner's collection.
Bed linens; bed skirt; monogrammed pillows; pillow shams: Leontine Linens, leontinelinens.com.
French knot coverlet: Ann Gish, anngish.com.
Bedside table (painted): Brunschwig & Fils, brunschwig.com.
Photograph (by Brett Paschke): owner's collection.


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You'd think there are some health practices from the past that ought to be left in the past, but apparently not. Witness the fact that the old remedy of bloodletting might be making a comeback. Ok, sure, why not? A small study of 33 obese patients with metabolic syndrome—the disease du jour—found that after six weeks of making regular blood donations, the people had lower blood pressure and decreased levels of glucose. Well, at least we're donating blood now instead of just opening a vein into a bowl and throwing it out, I guess?
The researchers think it works by reducing iron levels, since excessive iron has been tied to some of the ailments associated with metabolic syndrome. Aaanyway, this is such a small study that the results really don't prove much. So we need not get worked up just yet. Donating blood is certainly a worthwhile thing to do for it's own sake, but let's hope this bloodletting for health trend bleeds out before it hits the bigtime.
Bloodletting Makes Comeback for Metabolic Syndrome [Scientific American]
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A fascinating journey into the heart of Cantabria: from El Soplao to Altamira
Prehistoric painting at the Altamira Caves
Prehistoric painting at the Altamira Caves
Beneath its beautiful mountains and meadows, Cantabria hides a priceless underground treasure. It is a mysterious world of extreme beauty, packed with fanciful shapes, faint lights and shadows, and resonating sounds: a huge network of fascinating caves and caverns.
Spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, along with a host of weird and wonderful formations make the Cantabria caves a unique natural paradise, surprising both for their natural beauty and their excellent state of conservation. It is a gift from nature, with underground wells and rivers, vertical gorges and labyrinthine galleries straight out of science fiction – all sculpted by water and moisture over thousands of years. Many of these caves have remained hidden from human eyes for centuries. It is only now that some of these caverns can be visited.
There are more than 6,500 caves in Cantabria alone. The region is a must for all speleology-lovers, thanks to its spectacular and varied underground formations. However, all this hidden beauty is not the sole reserve of expert sportspeople. Anyone can explore this natural heritage and admire a good proportion of its interior monuments at close quarters.
If you want to experience an unforgettable adventure, come to El Soplao cave and explore more than a kilometre surrounded by incredible natural formations of rock and crystals, wonderful colours that hang from the ceiling or rise up from the floor to form a spectacular setting that will leave you awestruck. This cave is situated between the municipal districts of Valdáliga, Herrerías and Rionansa, some 20 kilometres from San Vicente de la Barquera, and you can visit it on an unusual tourist mine train.
Even more inter-play of light, shadow, sensations and smells can be found in the Asón-Agüera region, at the opposite end of Cantabria. At this point alone there are more than 4,000 caves forming some of Europe's largest underground systems. There are guided visits available to these caves throughout the year. There are caverns with a range of difficulties to cater for all. Anyone can visit the caves, regardless of physical fitness or experience, from children through to older people. You will feel like an explorer in a supernatural environment, sliding down into the bowels of the earth.
Prehistoric art route
Adventure, sport, mystery and beauty... and art, too, in the form of cave paintings, the mark of the planet's first human settlers. Cantabria is home to the world's highest density of caves with prehistoric paintings. They are artistic manifestations dating back between 12,000 and 40,000 years, an incalculable treasure to be found dotted around the entire region. Visit El Chufín Cave in Rionansa, Castillo Cave in Puente Viesgo, El Pendo Cave in Escobedo de Camargo and Covalanas Cave in Ramales de la Victoria, and feel the excitement of discovering the Palaeolithic artists' skill.
This fascinating underground paradise reaches its peak at the Altamira Caves, in Santillana. Defined by experts as the "Sistine Chapel of Prehistoric Art", and designated World Heritage, it is no longer possible to visit the original cave, but there is an exact replica located at the Altamira Museum. Come and get carried away by this amazing underground legacy.
More information: Association of Spanish Tourist Caves Altamira Museum Prehistoric Caves of Cantabria
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Everyone knows how exciting camping in a truck can be. Moving And Storage Companies Near Me in Sunninghill nothing can be better than enjoying the nature by yourself. Having your own spacious ride further supplements the experience. Sleeping in your own truck while enjoying the fresh air is an amazing thing to do if traveling is in your blood. However, it is imperative to have a truck bed tent to ensure a pleasant camping experience. Often we consider securing the tent on the ground using ropes. Setting up such tent can be inconvenient.
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Advanced carpet cleaners are in high demand. More and more people are interested in replacing their old cleaners with advanced ones endowed with special features and modern technology. Traditional cleaning was limited to removing dirt and dust but the new age cleaning carpet machines are programmed to beautify and brighten the carpets making them as new as possible. Traditional carpet cleaning was aimed at mere cleaning but at present carpet cleaners focus on cleaning as well as improving the durability and age of our exotic carpets.
Hot water extraction or steam cleaning is the most popular technology employed by advanced cleaning carpet systems. Nevertheless, other systems are also upgraded with futuristic changes and they possess their own merits. Besides the technology, the fundamentals of cleansing have also undergone modernization. Cleaning carpet chemicals produced in our contemporary hygiene industry are more reactive than ever. Some of the best formulas featured by these advanced cleaners include green carpet cleaning solutions and encapsulated dry-cleaning technique.
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With the rapid change in time also brought the modern way of communication which has made us familiar with the term "Social Media". It is a kind of technology that simplifies the creation and sharing of information, ideas, career interests and other forms of expression via virtual communities and networks. It is an ability to bring people together. Organizations have been engaged in numerous events that can be carried out through social media to get customer brilliance by capturing VOC to gain customer insights. Social networks are now an extensive part of every marketing strategy, and the benefits of using social media are so great that it can bring phenomenal marketing opportunity. Social media has now become the most accepted option when it comes to market various products and services. It is the biggest channel of exchanging different but meaningful information which can also be in the form of conversations. It is important to be aware of when and what is the information to be shared through social media in order to have an effective and an efficient way of communication. Stated below are some of the key benefits of Social Media Management 1. You get enable to reach out to the right or targeted customers. According to the study, almost 2.34 billion people in the world are connected through Social Media. You can target the right audience with different casts, cultures, and locations. 2. Learn How to Connect with Your Audience through Social Listing: Social listening is the act of observing various conversations happening around different issues. It also helps you to understand what the targeted audience is and also identify the latest trend your target audience is following. It will also make you aware of the pain area of your customer and how effective you can deal with those problems. 3. Enhance the brand image of your company: This is one of the significant areas. It is always important to update your product detail or some other activity related to the brand, daily, weekly or on a monthly basis, according to the need. This activity will certainly increase engagement as more and more people will get active on your social media page and understand well about the company and the product. 4. Be competitive: Businesses have started adopting social media as one of the vital sources of online marketing. According to business experts, benefits of social media marketing majorly helps in making your brand more competitive in the market 5. Increase customer loyalty: This will only be possible by ensuring that all the queries or customer feedback are completely understood by the social media team and accordingly replied without any delay. This activity will help in gaining trust over the credibility of your business 6. Social Media can also help in increasing traffic to your business website. This practice will definitely be beneficial and if continue can generate fruitful and positive results for your business and simultaneously achieve higher page ranking with the use of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) 7. Increase in conversion rate: Social media management allows your business to give an optimistic impression. When any brands are interactive by sharing content, commenting, and status posting on social media, it personalizes a brand. Due to huge price involved in traditional marketing or print media, studies have also shown better conversion ratio while using social media. 8. Social Media Management is indeed very cost effective as compared to other marketing strategies which will definitely give greater ROI (Return on Investment) At the end, I would like to conclude by putting up my opinion and to focus more on social media management tools for the effective business approach. The sooner you start, the sooner you'll see growth in your business.