September 21 International Day of Peace

International Day of Peace
The International Day of Peace ("Peace Day") provides an opportunity for individuals, organizations and nations to create practical acts of peace on a shared date. It was established by a United Nations resolution in 1981 to coincide with the opening of the General Assembly. The first Peace Day was celebrated in September 1982.

In 2002 the General Assembly officially declared September 21 as the permanent date for the International Day of Peace. By creating the International Day of Peace, the UN devoted itself to worldwide peace and encouraged all of mankind to work in cooperation for this goal. During the discussion of the U.N. Resolution that established the International Day of Peace, it was suggested that:

"Peace Day should be devoted to commemorating and strengthening the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and peoples…This day will serve as a reminder to all peoples that our organization, with all its limitations, is a living instrument in the service of peace and should serve all of us here within the organization as a constantly pealing bell reminding us that our permanent commitment, above all interests or differences of any kind, is to peace."

 

International Day of Peace 2012

Secretary-General's Message for
International Day of Peace

The International Day of Peace, observed each year on 21 September,
is a global call for ceasefire and non-violence.The theme of this year's observance is
"Sustainable Peace for a Sustainable Future".

Follow the activities on the Global Boadcast for the

International Day of Peace

Watch live streaming video from peacedaytv at livestream.com

 

September 21, World Alzheimer's Day Eating Challenges

World Alzheimer's Day is an opportunity to raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease and the need for more education, support and research. Millions of families across the United States and the world are affected by this disease.

Alzheimer's Disease Facts and Figures 2012

How to Cope with Eating Problems
in Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia

There is no special diet required for people with Alzheimer's disease, unless they have another medical condition that needs consideration. Eating well-balanced and nutritious meals is extremely important.

A person with Alzheimer's disease and their caregiver face numerous eating challenges.

1. Poor nutrition due to Alzheimer's may be related to depression, forgetting to eat, diminished sense of hunger and thirst, difficulty feeding, eating, chewing and/or swallowing or the inability to obtain or prepare foods.

2. Check for food and drug interactions; look for any medications that may decrease appetite or affect nutritional status.

3. Constipation maybe a problem. Drink enough fluids, stay active and include fiber rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

4. Dry mouth might be a side effect of some medications or a symptom of Alzheimer’s. Provide and encourage the drinking of water and other fluids. To soften foods, dip them in fluids or add broth, gravies or sauces. When eating, take a sip of a beverage between bites, this will aid in swallowing and moisten the mouth. To increase the production of saliva and moisten the mouth, use a frozen ice pop or sour candy.

5. Problems with dentures and/or oral health.

6. As Alzheimer’s progresses, an individual may not recognize foods and easily becomes distracted.

7. Weight loss or weight gain may occur.

Recommendations

1. Allow plenty of time to eat and remove any distractions.

2. A person should be calm before providing food and drink.

3. Make sure a person is positioned properly to allow for safe swallowing.

4. Communicate about the food and temperature of the foods.

5. If a person has difficulty-using utensils, try finger foods. Finger foods are prepared so a person can eat with one’s hands. The use of finger foods allows for independence.

6. If finger foods are a problem, feeding may be necessary.

7. Make meals colorful and appealing.

8. Offer small mini meals throughout the day. Use smaller plates and cups. Too much food on a plate may be overwhelming.

9. Add herbs, spices, chutney, and/or sauces to add flavor.

10. Make sure food and fluids are consumed.

From His Window (song about Alzheimer's disease)

Resource

The Alzheimer's Association is the leading, global voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care and support, and the largest private, nonprofit funder of Alzheimer research. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s, and since our founding in 1980, we have moved toward this goal by advancing research and providing support, information and education to those affected by Alzheimer’s and related dementias.

Mission: To eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. 

Vision: A world without Alzheimer’s.

 

September 20, National Punch Day

FDA does not have a specific definition or standard of identity for punch, or any other requirement that a punch contain fruit juice. A punch may be an artificially flavored beverage, with or without natural flavorings, or it  may be made from tea and other ingredients, exclusive of fruit juice. Such products must be clearly distinguished from products which are made from fruit juices or fruit concentrates or purees. Products containing  artificial or natural flavors must be labeled in accordance with 21 CFR 101.22.

Read the Label. An educated consumer has the knowledge to make wise decisions.

September 18, World Water Monitoring Day

World Water Monitoring Day

World Water Monitoring Challenge™ (WWMC) is an international education and outreach program that builds public awareness and involvement in protecting water resources around the world by engaging citizens to conduct basic monitoring of their local waterbodies.

WWMC grew out of the World Water Monitoring Day program in 2012. While an official “day” continues to be observed each year on September 18, the broader “challenge” encourages people everywhere to test the quality of their waterways, share their findings, and protect our most precious resource. The program runs annually from March 22 (the United Nations World Water Day) until December 31.

The primary goal of World Water Monitoring Challenge is to educate and engage citizens in the protection of the world’s water resources. Many people are unaware of the impact their behaviors have on water quality. Conducting simple monitoring tests teaches participants about some of the most common indicators of water health and encourages further participation in more formal citizen monitoring efforts.

Symbolic Foods of Rosh Hashanah

September 15, International Coastal Cleanup

Today is the Ocean Conservancy annual International Coastal Cleanup Day.

Ocean Conservancy was founded in 1972, with goals to promote healthy and diverse ocean ecosystems, and to oppose practices that threaten oceanic and human life.

Ocean Conservancy believes it's time to look beneath the surface to see where the health of our planet really begins. It’s time to recognize the source that sustains us day to day with the food we eat, the water we drink, and the air we breathe...to discover that all living things are connected to the ocean. It’s time to understand that going green starts with living blue. It’s time to start a sea change.

Join Ocean Conservancy and
pledge to clean up our ocean in 2012

Mission: Ocean Conservancy promotes healthy and diverse ocean ecosystems and opposes practices that threaten ocean life and human life. Through research, education, and science-based advocacy, Ocean Conservancy informs, inspires, and empowers people to speak and act on behalf of the oceans. In all its work, Ocean Conservancy strives to be the world's foremost advocate for the oceans.

Ocean Conservancy believes It's Time:
* To stop warming the planet
* To stop trashing our beaches
* For sustainable fishing
* To set the standard for fish farming
* To save marine wildlife
* To protect our Yosemites of the sea
* For order in the ocean
* For bold leadership

Nearly three-quarters of the Earth's surface is covered by water. The oceans have played a crucial role in the history and sustenance of all life.

The World's Oceans....
* Generates most of the oxygen we breathe

* Helps feed us

* Regulates our climate

It's up to each one of us to help ensure that our ocean is protected and conserved for future generations. Please don't just leave memories of the wonders of the Oceans.

To learn more about the Ocean Conservancy and to get involved, visit:
Website:  Ocean Conservancy
Twitter: @ourocean
YouTube: Ocean Conservancy
Facebook. Ocean Conservancy

The following videos show the beauty of the oceans, life under the sea, and the effects humans and industry have had on the ocean.

Disney describes the beauty and
important role the ocean plays in our lives.
Oceans - Disney Nature Trailer

The "Little Mermaid Under the Sea"

September 13, National Celiac Disease Awareness Day

Celiac disease is an immune reaction to gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. The disease affects about one in 100 people in Europe and North America.

The Awareness Campaign provides current, comprehensive, science-based information about the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of celiac disease, also known as celiac sprue, nontropical sprue, and gluten-sensitive enteropathy.

The key to understanding the Gluten Free diet is to become a good ingredient label reader. The following ingredients should not be consumed. They come from prohibited grains: barley, rye, triticale, wheat (durum, graham, kamut, semolina, spelt), malt, malt flavoring, malt vinegar (generally made from barley—verify the source).

Celiac Disease Foundation 

Public Service Announcement

Riceworks Sponsors Interview With 

Celiac Disease Expert Shelley Case

Resources
1. NIH: Celiac Disease Awareness Campaign
2. Celiac Disease Foundation
3. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Celiac Disease
4. Rachel Begun, RD, "The Gluten Free RD"
5. Shelley Case, RD  

September is Better Breakfast Month

Rise and Shine with a Healthy Breakfast

*Children who eat breakfast are less likely to be overweight.

*Children who eat breakfast have more energy.

*Children who eat breakfast concentrate better.

*Children who eat breakfast have higher grades in school.

*Children who skip breakfast may have learning and behavioral problems.

*Children who skip breakfast may develop nutritional deficiencies.

*Children who eat breakfast are Alert, Energized and Ready for a Brand New Day.

Breakfast Ideas

Presentation encourages food exploration 

Make homework fun and nutritious

A Special Thank You to Raffi and the Centre for Child Honouring for
providing permission to use "Rise and Shine" to encourage a Healthy Breakfast.

"Raffi" (Raffi Cavoukian), C.M., O.B.C.

Founder and Chair, Centre for Child Honouring

He is known to millions as "Raffi", a beloved songwriter and performer, author, ecology advocate and founder of Centre for Child Honouring. Child Honouring is a vision for creating a humane and sustainable world by addressing the universal needs of children.

In his career, which spans three-decades, Raffi has refused all commercial endorsement offers, and Troubadour Music, his own company, has never directly advertised or marketed to children. He is a passionate advocate for a child’s right to live free of commercial exploitation.

"We invite you to be a part of the global movement that views honouring children as the best way to create sustainable, peacemaking societies."  - Raffi

To learn more about the Centre for Child Honouring, please visit the Centre for Child Honouring and join "the compassion revolution."

Happy Birthday Google, 2012 Through the Eyes of a Dietitian

September 7,
Google Turns 14 years old 

A Special Thank you to Google

When I need an answer to a question, I just ask Google. Most of the time Google points me in the right direction. Google even has a sense of humor. I once asked Google a question and it responded by saying "I need to learn how to ask questions".

Google has helped me in many ways, both personally and professionally...

1. Assisted in finding special adaptive equipment for my son who has cerebral palsy.
2. Taught me about organizations that provide assistance for people.

3. Found answers about food, nutrition, history, politics, art, culture, music. etc..

4. Allowed me to visit places, I've only dreamed about.
5. Located friends from past.

6. Introduced me to colleagues all over the world.
 

I still can't quite figure out Google Circles, but I'll keep trying.

To view the history of Google click the following link. http://www.google.com/corporate/history.html

September 4, World Cerebral Palsy Day

World Cerebral Palsy Day, is a world first!  It will change the lives of people with cerebral palsy (CP).  The theme for this unique day is 'Change my world in 1 minute'. 

World Cerebral Palsy Day

There are 17 million people around the world with cerebral palsy.  A further 350 million people are closely connected to a child or adult with CP.

Living with Cerebral Palsy

This is my son, Jake Frank. It is my son's wish to share, he has tried numerous resources to pursue his education, including the Federal Government and the state of Florida Department of Education. Both have denied his request due to his special diploma.

Power of One:

Cerebral palsy no barrier to excellence

MDA Telethon September 2, 2012 at 8 pm

Sunday, September 2, 2012
at 8 pm EST
Check Local Listings

To make a donation, click the link for MDA.

MDA SHOW of STRENGTH

We are grateful for the years of dedication and the contributions Jerry Lewis has made to fight Muscular Dystrophy. To Jerry and his kids.

To make a donation, click the link for MDA.

Where Telethon Dollars Go

The Telethon is the single most important fundraising event of the year for MDA. Funds raised help the Association carry on its fight against muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases, including a worldwide program of basic and applied research, a nationwide network of comprehensive medical and support services, and extensive professional and public education. Children and adults with muscle-damaging diseases benefit directly from dollars raised during the Telethon.

Strolling through the Archives of MDA 

Early MDA telethon, mid-1960s.

 

Jerry Lewis and Dean Martin 

Reunion on the MDA Telethon

Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis reunite after twenty years on the 1976 MDA Jerry Lewis Telethon. Frank Sinatra surprises Jerry by bringing on Dean and then some nervous and hilarious clowning between the two ensue. This is followed by a medley of American Standards by Dean and Frank. In two parts, this is the complete segment of the reunion. An important and historic piece of entertainment history.

Sammy and Jerry Friendship

from 1987 MDA Telethon

A Dedication to Mattie Stepanek

 (7/17/90-6/22/04)

Mattie Stepanek was a 13 year old boy who had a rare form
 of muscular dystrophy. He was a poet, a peacemaker, and a hero.
 The song is "He Was Just Like Me" was written and recorded by
 Mattie's friend Madison Cross in memory of him.

Muscular Dystrophy Association (PBS)

Abbey Umali - Jerry Lewis

MDA Telethon Collection

Abbey Umali Opens the 2010 Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon

To make a donation, 

click the link for the MDA website.