Spring Break Safety Tips from Students Who Have Been There

Photo Credit: www.davis.k12.ut.us

Tips from students who have gone on spring break and had a good time without getting into trouble sound terribly like what any good parent will tell you. Don’t let that stop you from taking care of yourself.

1. Tell your parents or other people at home where you are going, who you’ll be with, and when to expect you back. Let them know how to reach you if necessary. Stay in touch to let them know you’re okay. They will worry less. You will be safer. Hopefully you won’t be one of those who drop out of sight. But if you are, it’s important that someone knows where you were supposed to be and who was with you.
2. Use the buddy system. When you are in a bar or in a partying crowd, take care of each other. Don’t let yourselves get separated.
3. Don’t go anywhere with strangers. No exceptions. See number 2. If you meet up with people who want to show you the town or take you to their homes, don’t.
4. Be aware of your surroundings. Take a moment to assess the scene and to decide if it’s where you really want to be. Know where the exits are. Don’t let yourself get isolated.
5. Know the local laws, especially if you are traveling outside the U.S.
6. Don’t drink to the point that you’re out of control. Don’t drink anything given to you by someone you don’t know.
7. Stay hydrated. Alcohol and sun are a bad mix that can result in dehydration and sun poisoning. Use sunscreen and drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated. (No, beer doesn’t count for hydrating.)
8. Be firm and clear about boundaries. Stay out of situations where your intentions about sex can be misunderstood.
9. Don’t have unprotected sex or do anything sexual that is against your own moral principles. When you get home, you’ll still be with the you that was there.
10. Don’t carry all your money. Keep your return ticket and some cash in the hotel safe so you are certain you can get home.

And, yes, have fun. Just use the good sense you were born with while you do it and you’ll go home with a nice tan and no regrets.

 

Source: http://psychcentral.com/lib/2013/spring-break-cautions-tips/

 

One Queens Grant Opportunity 2012-2013

Photo Credit: www.boilerpartsqueens.com


The Queens Fellowship's 2012-2013 Grant Making Committee is seeking proposals from Queens-based organizations and individuals for the 2013 One Queens Grant. The Committee will award grants of up to $1,000 to support and empower Queens-based organizations that will educate and advocate for a healthier Queens (i.e. physically, mentally, economically, spiritually, etc.). Proposals are due by April 11, 2013. Email thequeensfellowship@gmail.com for more information, and download the RFP and application here.

Helping New Yorkers Get Prepared: Post Hurricane Sandy

Photo Credit: inhabitat.com

Were you or anyone you know affected by Hurricane Sandy or 9/11? Do you know what to do if the another disaster happens? The Community Service Society's Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, in partnership with the American Red Cross, is pleased to offer organizations in New York City a free one-hour "Ready New York" presentation to staff, clients, and/or volunteers at your agency on how to prepare for an emergency. Please contact Bobbie Futrell, Unit Supervisor, at (212) 614-5386 or bfutrell@cssny.org.

Courtesy of Community UPLINK

Alcohol Awareness Month Event: April 10, 2013

If you would like to order the DVD "Under 21: Why We Drink", please CLICK HERE to download form.



FUNDING ALERT --- March 2013 Edition

Photo Credit:Vizyons.wordpress.com

Sponsored By US Department of Health & Human Services Administration for Children & Families, Region II in collaboration with Wurzweiler School of Social Work, Yeshiva University Wurzweiler Community Partnership Committee
Friday, April 5, 2013 at 9:00 AM to 1:30 PM. Location at Yeshiva University, 2495 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10033 (on the corner of West 183rd Street). 9th Floor (Belfer Hall) in room 921.

This interactive Grant Writing workshop will help non-profit organizations understand what to do and what to avoid when applying for federal grant funds. Learn how the funding process works, how to use on-line resources to find funding from the 26 federal agencies that award grants and how to develop a grant proposal that will score well in the competitive review.  The training is free! Registration is required. Deadline is March 28, 2013 but registration close earlier if maximum capacity is reached.
Register online at findingandapplyingforfederalfunding.eventbrite.com
For additional information, contact: Josabet Cuevas at Josabet.cuevas@acf.hhs.gov
or call (212) 264-2890, ext. 123

Challenge Grants
National Endowment for the Humanities challenge grants are capacity-building grants, intended to help institutions and organizations secure long-term improvements in and support for their humanities programs and resources. Through these awards, many organizations and institutions have been able to increase their humanities capacity and secure the permanent support of an endowment. Grants may be used to establish or enhance endowments or spend-down funds that generate expendable earnings to support and enhance ongoing program activities.
Applications are due by May 1st
CLICK HERE FOR THE WEBSITE

Manhattan Borough President's Office (MBPO) Community Grants: Each year the Manhattan Borough President’s Office (MBPO) partners with City agencies to provide programmatic funding to organizations that sustain, foster, and enhance the quality of life for Manhattan’s residents, neighborhoods, and communities. Apply by May 3rd.
Applications are due by May 3rd
CLICK HERE FOR THE WEBSITE 

Farm to School Grant Program: The purpose of the USDA Farm to School Grant Program is to assist eligible entities in implementing farm to school programs that improve access to local foods in eligible schools. On an annual basis, USDA awards up to $5 million in competitive grants for training, supporting operations, planning, purchasing equipment, developing school gardens, developing partnerships, and implementing farm to school programs. 

Applications are due by April 24

CLICK HERE FOR THE WEBSITE

The Uncomfortable Truth About Chickens, Prozac and Farts.

The PRC is launching a new blog feature called "Healing & Renewal". This series of blog posts will spotlight tips and information dedicated to the health and wellness of our readers; and provide useful ways for self-care. Our goal is to keep you healthy and able to continue serving your neighborhoods.

by Cindy Moustafa
If when you read this title with a greater amount of confusion, yet interest, fear not. It will all make sense at the end.

For the past 2 years I have made every effort to only use organic, free-range chicken, eggs, turkey and meat. Sure, it costs a little more but I’d rather spend a couple of extra dollars than ingest the crap they are feeding these poor creatures.

Today, I came across this article in the NY Times, that didn’t so much shock me as it did reassure me that I’m making the right meat purchases. I have included a link to the article below, but to sum it up, it was found that chickens are being fed arsenic as well as anti-anxiety medication, among other things, so that their meat is more tender and visually appealing. Why the hell are chickens anxious and depressed in the first place? Well, if you were locked with 25 people in a tiny cage and force-fed so that you’d get nice and plump for someone to eat you, you might need Prozac too. In today’s society, animals have become modern-day Hansels & Gretels and we are the evil witches.

Whose fault is this? I’d love to say the food industry and the government, and to a certain extent they do assume some responsibility. But ultimately it’s you and I that cause this. Chickens, cows, pigs, and lambs live this life because we demand to have chicken nuggets, pulled pork sandwiches, fried drumsticks and veal cutlets in large quantities daily. This high demand puts pressure on farmers to grow these animals quicker then they can naturally grow. So, it turns out that a diet of corn, animal shit, drugs, antibiotics and growth hormones (that you will ingest ultimately by the way, because you then eat that food), does the trick. If you don’t give a shit about animal cruelty, then consider that a big part of the Earth’s greenhouse gases are coming from too many cow farts. You read that right. We’ve got so many damn cows, eating so much, that they’re farting all day long and destroying our planet. And you thought your Uncle Ned’s gastrointestinal issues at Thanksgiving dinner was an issue.

I’m by no means a vegetarian. But the more I learn, the more I understand why people follow vegetarianism. I personally think that there is a healthy medium. You can buy organic, local meats and you can go vegetarian just 2 days a week. This week, try just to buy organic chicken and turkey and see how long you can stretch those meals. For example, a pound of organic chicken can most likely feed 2 for at least a dinner and lunch. When you divide the price per meal, it’s really not as expensive as you think.

We have to learn to get uncomfortable if we really want to make a change. I beg you, to please open your mind and watch Food, Inc. or any other expose on the way factory farming really treats animals.

You don’t have to be an animal activist to know that what’s going on is not right. Even if you have no concern for the animals, please consider this: What in the hell are we feeding ourselves and our children?? Estrogen? Prozac? Arsenic? Actual shit?

Remember that YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT, EATS!

As promised, here are 2 links to get you started. Feel free to comment and ask for recipe ideas, or even just your thoughts!

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/05/opinion/kristof-arsenic-in-our-chicken.html?_r=0
http://www.peta.org/tv/videos/vegetarianism-general/1836267917001.aspx

 (Originally posted at http://forevafit.wordpress.com/)

About the Cotributing Blogger
I am a certified health coach from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition and a licensed fitness instructor from A.F.A.A. My stories are the real deal and I face the same barriers as everyone else. I hold 3 jobs while getting a Master’s degree, so I understand what the term “too busy” is all about. 

The reason why I have been able to maintain a healthy lifestyle while battling these obstacles is simply that I have the tools. I want to share those with you. I want to share what’s worked for me, as well as give you the latest news and trends in health.

Please visit my website www.foreverfitny.com or e-mail me at CJMOUSTAFA@gmail.com to schedule a consultation or to receive more information.

Crown Heights' Arts to End Violence Festival 2013

Flyer Credit: Crown Heights Mediation Center



The Arts to End Violence festival is composed of multiple events, including a block party for youth and community members to engage in art making, and an Art Showcase that displays selected submissions by local professional artists and winners of our youth art contest.
This year's festival calendar will be as follows:

February 1st: Accepting submissions to arts contest (more information below).
April 1st: Deadline for submission to contest
May 18th, 2013: Arts to End Violence Block Party
May 23rd, 2013: Gallery Opening event for the Arts Showcase. Art will remain on display through June 9th, 2013 in the Ron Taylor Gallery at 1160 St. John's Place.
June 5th, 2013: Arts to End Violence Spoken Word event

To submit or for other inquiries, please call the Crown Heights Community Mediation Center office at 718-773-6886 or visit their website: http://www.crownheightsmediationcenter.org/p/arts-to-end-violence.html

Final Month to Submit Play Street Applications!

Photo Credit: Londonplay.org

 

Hey Blog Readers!

 

It's been encouraging to watch enthusiasm for Play Streets grow. The NYC Health Department has already received over 40 Expressions of Interest and more are coming in still! We are quickly approaching the Play Street application deadline and many of you have asked questions about how to proceed. Below is a basic outline of the critical steps and recommended time-frame to complete them in. 

 

Step 1. (to be completed ASAP) Submit the Expression of Interest. A representative from the NYC Department of Health will contact you afterwards to help you select an appropriate site. Even if you're not absolutely certain you want to host a Play Street this summer, we encourage you to fill this out to so the City knows people want more resources and support for this program.   

 

Step 2. (to be completed by March 31) Submit the final Play Streets permitapplication. You will need to obtain the signature of your local community board district manager and the precinct community affairs officer (let us know if you need help with this step). It takes roughly 6-8 weeks for your Play Streets permit to be issued. 

 

Step 3. (to be completed by June 30) Plan activities and logistics. There are lots of moving pieces to hosting a successful Play Street. Recruiting volunteers and activity leaders are one important component (we can help with this too). Our Best Practices guide contains valuable information to get you started.  

Please contact Alan Leung of Transportation Alternatives at alan.leung@transalt.org or (646)839-6483, if you have any questions about this.

2nd Annual Sober St. Patrick’s Day Event

Photo Credit: Orange County Register

A Family Friendly Alcohol-Free Party

Regis H.S. at 60 East 85th Street, NYC
Saturday, March 16th, 2013 (Parade Day in NYC)
Time: 3 - 6PM

With the participation of celebrities from the arts, world-class musicians and dancers, senior Irish politicians, television cameras, and a sold-out crowd, Sober St. Patrick’s Day® was launched on the world in New York City last March. This new kind of party attracted significant media coverage and was, by any standards, a roaring success – no green beer or bad behavior, just a really good time!

The Irish national holiday – St. Patrick’s Day – is celebrated around the world and nowhere more enthusiastically than in America. Unfortunately, the holiday has become increasingly associated with uncontrolled levels of drinking and public intoxication, alienating citizens and audiences everywhere who want to enjoy the best in traditional Irish culture and "reclaim the true spirit of the day."

Sober St. Patrick’s Day® is for anyone looking for an alternative to the boozy stereotype, whether you’re looking to provide a healthy celebration of Irish entertainment for your entire family, want to go on a great new date or are a person in recovery who has long since abandoned the holiday.

For more information, please visit website for ticket information: www.soberstpatricksday.org.

Join NYC Youth for Kick Butts Day!

 

 

Kick Butts Day

March 20, 2013

4:30pm - 5:30pm

 

Harlem State Office Building Plaza

163 West 125th Street (corner of Lenox/7th Avenue)

 

For more info: Contact Tiffany Rivera

We Are All Brooklyn Fellowship Opportunity

Photo Credit: Young Entrepreneur website

Leading By Giving Grant Opportunity is available for organizations serving youth in Brooklyn as well as for young people looking to help their fellow peers?

We Are All Brooklyn is awarding a grant of up to $1000.00 to a Brooklyn-based individual or organization that provides either job training or entrepreneurship assistance to Brooklyn area's youth.

If you or someone you know is eligible, application must be submitted by April 1st.


Click on this link to visit website to download and/or view application requirement:

Good Luck!

 

Ben & Jerry's Grants for Grassroots Community Groups

Logo Credit: Ben And Jerry Foundation

 

The Ben & Jerry's Foundation offers competitive grants to not-for-profit, grassroots community organizing groups throughout the United States. They fund organizations working to bring about progressive social change by addressing the underlying conditions of societal and environmental problems through constituent-led organizing and activist strategies. 

Must apply no later than March 15th.
For more information on requirements, please visit link here.

Kick Butts Day is March 20th

Mark Your Calendars for Kick Butts Day on March 20th.

Started in 1996 by the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids, Kick Butts Day is a nationwide day of action to spread the word about the harmful effects of tobacco and smoking products on young people.

Organizers have created an interactive website to assist those interested in having young people participate in the campaign.   KickButtsDay.org has a list of easy to plan activities that are sure to get the attention of both kids and adults alike.

More than 100 youth led activities are expected to occur nationwide to raise the awareness about the issue and encourage kids to stay tobacco free.  Materials are provided free-of-charge and most needing only a short time for preparation


CHECK OUT OUR ISSUE SPOTLIGHT ON KICK BUTTS DAY for Activities & Fact Sheets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Toll of Tobacco in New York

High school students who smoke	12.5% (132,400)
Male high school students who use smokeless or spit tobacco	11% (females use much lower)
Kids (under 18) who become new daily smokers each year	22,500
Kids exposed to secondhand smoke at home	1,120,000
Packs of cigarettes bought or smoked by kids each year	33.4 million
Adults in New York who smoke	18.1% (2,747,400)

Adults who die each year from their own smoking	25,400
Kids now under 18 and alive in New York who will ultimately die prematurely from smoking	389,000

Webinar "The Coalition Influence: Strategies to Implementing Sustainable Tobacco Prevention Policies"



Logo Credit: CADCA

 CADCA will present a webinar session on tobacco prevention and control, "The Coalition Influence: Strategies to Implementing Sustainable Tobacco Prevention Policies,” from 2-3:30 p.m. EST March 14, 2013. 

The webinar will feature Maggie Mahoney, J.D., Deputy Director at the Tobacco Control Legal Consortium, and Maija Yasui, Prevention Coordinator for the Hood River County Commission on Children and Families.

 

The purpose of this webinar is learn about the available resources for coalitions from the Tobacco Control Legal Consortium to assist with local policy development or modification. The Tobacco Control Legal Consortium has been helping advocates use the law to advance public health outcomes in local communities for thirteen years. The webinar will review how the Tobacco Control Legal Consortium assists local coalitions develop legislation and policies in core areas to preserve, protect and promote public health. The Hood River County Drug Prevention Coalition will share strategies, activities and outcomes that were key to reducing tobacco use rates in their community. The coalition will also share  how they established tobacco –free schools, hospital, housing, parks and other outdoor policies in order to inspire other coalitions working on these similar strategies. Much of Hood River’s success comes from the engagement of youth in environmental assessments, media production and community activism.  In the last five years additional reductions in tobacco use by youth and adults has come through strong engagement of the faith and Hispanic communities. This webinar will take participants through the first steps, lessons learned, challenges and strategies/policies implemented. Participants are highly encouraged to ask questions and provide personal feedback at the end of the speaking segment of the webinar.   

At the end of the webinar, participants should be able to: 

• Identify at least one policy implementation area recommended by the Tobacco Control Legal Consortium or the Hood River County Drug Prevention Coalition
• Understand the benefits and resources offered by the Tobacco Control Legal Consortium
• Describe some of the challenges to implement tobacco prevention policies and how to overcome those challenges
• Understand the importance of youth engagement in reducing the burden of tobacco use
• Understand the importance of local media influence in reducing the burden of tobacco use
• Implement strategies to use the influence of creating new social norms to reduce tobacco use prevalence and acceptance
• Implement collaborative strategies that encourage sustainable partnership building

 

REGISTERFOR THIS WEBINAR HERE 

(Registration form is in a survey format)