Remembering Selena 20 Years Later 1995-2015

20 Years ago Today, Today Marks the day Tejano Superstar Selena Quintanilla Perez was gun down by her Fan Club President Yolanda Saldivar on March 31, 1995 WOW! I can't believe it's been 20 years since we have lost Selena as I take a moment to reflect on her life and her music career I am Thankful for ALL she as done even 20 years later many people may not know this but SELENA is my SHERO and I have always looked up to her as an African American Women I am so PROUD of her Grace, Integrity, Character and Personality she is the reason why I LOVE speaking Spanish. What I also LOVE about Selena she was PROUD to be Mexican America the way she would sing with conviction, attitude, and passion you could feel it that is the reason why I made a promise to myself that I would ALWAYS Keep her Memory and Legacy alive as long as I lived. Selena has been an inspiration in my life and I am so looking forward to Celebrating her life and legacy on this Day. I do remember the day I heard Selena on the Radio the song was Bidi Bidi Bom Bom from her Amor Prohibido album her voice was AMAZING! I was hooked from then on. On March 31, 1995 I remember that tragic day I turned on the TV and I was flipping through the channels and I so happen to STOP on Univision to see the Breaking News that Selena had been gun down by her fan culb President Yolanda Saldivar I could NOT believe what just happened my Heart was feel with sadness and mixed emotions but what I LOVE and what stood out is how ALL of us Fans got together in unity to remember a Legend in Tejano Music. Many may ask me what I LOVE most about Selena it was her Smile and Laughter it always made me feel like anything is Possible and her laughter I LOVED when Selena would laugh because it was so contagious that you would start laughing yourself what I also LOVED about her was her REALNESS she was always so Down to earth NEVER letting fame and fortune get the best of her I LOVE they was he would engage with her fans talking, laughing taking picture's with her fans. YES! On this day I am Celebrating and Remembering the Beautiful life of Selena. Siempre Selena! Selena Remembered 20 Years After Her Death Nearly 20 Years After Her Tragic Murder, Rising Superstar Selena's Legacy Is Remembered Selena Quintanilla Special Un Nuevo Dia 30.03.2015 Special Selena Vive 2015 The Real Show - Tribute Selena 2015 Selena - Mexican American Music of Today - Mi Musica with Selena Quintanilla - Part 1 Selena - Mexican American Music of Today - Mi Musica with Selena Quintanilla - Part 2 Selena Live Disco Medley Last Concert 1995

Celebrating Women's History Month

Many of you many know that March is Women's History Month so as we are wrapping up the month of March I just wanted to take a moment to Celebrate and Honor the Women on this Women's History Month here is some Historical information on just How Women's History Month begin. March is Women’s History Month The Library of Congress, National Archives and Records Administration, National Endowment for the Humanities, National Gallery of Art, National Park Service, Smithsonian Institution and United States Holocaust Memorial Museum join in paying tribute to the generations of women whose commitment to nature and the planet have proved invaluable to society. About Women’s History Month Women’s History Month had its origins as a national celebration in 1981 when Congress passed Pub. L. 97-28 which authorized and requested the President to proclaim the week beginning March 7, 1982 as “Women’s History Week." Throughout the next five years, Congress continued to pass joint resolutions designating a week in March as "Women’s History Week." In 1987 after being petitioned by the National Women’s History Project, Congress passed Pub. L. 100-9 which designated the month of March 1987 as “Women’s History Month." Between 1988 and 1994, Congress passed additional resolutions requesting and authorizing the President to proclaim March of each year as Women’s History Month. Since 1995, Presidents Clinton, Bush and Obama have issued a series of annual proclamations designating the month of March as “Women’s History Month.” From the Law Library of Congress' guide to the legislative history of Women's History Month. Executive and Legislative Documents The Law Library of Congress has compiled guides to commemorative observations, including a comprehensive inventory of the Public Laws, Presidential Proclamations and congressional resolutions related to Women’s History Month. Women’s History Month honors and celebrates the struggles and achievements of American women throughout the history of the United States. American women have struggled throughout our history to gain rights not simply for themselves but for many other under represented and disenfranchised groups in America. Women’s History Month had its origins in 1981 when Congress passed Pub. L. 97-28 which authorized and requested the President to proclaim the week beginning March 7, 1982 as “Women’s History Week". As requested by Congress, President Reagan issued Presidential Proclamation 4903 proclaiming the week beginning on March 7, 1982 as the first "Women’s History Week" and recognizing the vital role of women in American history: American women of every race, creed and ethnic background helped found and build our Nation in countless recorded and unrecorded ways ... As leaders in public affairs, American women not only worked to secure their own rights of suffrage and equal opportunity but also were principal advocates in the abolitionist, temperance, mental health reform, industrial labor and social reform movements, as well as the modern civil rights movement. Throughout the next five years, Congress continued to pass joint resolutions designating a week in March as "Women’s History Week" and authorizing the President to issue a proclamation to inform the country of this recognition and urge the people to study the contributions of women to U.S. history. In 1987 after being petitioned by the National Women’s History Project, Congress passed Pub. L. 100-9 which designated the month of March 1987 as “Women’s History Month.” This law requested the President to issue a proclamation calling upon the people of the United States to observe this month with appropriate activities and ceremonies. President Reagan then issued Presidential Proclamation 5619 proclaiming March 1987 as "Women’s History Month" and calling upon all Americans to mark the month with observances to honor the achievements of American women. Between 1988 and 1994, Congress passed additional resolutions requesting and authorizing the President to proclaim March of each year as Women’s History Month. Since 1995, Presidents Clinton, Bush and Obama have issued a series of annual proclamation designating the month of March as “Women’s History Month.” These proclamations celebrate the contributions women have made to the United States and recognize the specific achievements women have made over the course of American history in a variety of fields. In 1999 President Clinton issued Presidential Proclamation 7170 which celebrated women from journalist Nellie Bly to Fannie Lou Hamer a leader in the Civil Rights movement to Rachel Carson. In 2008 President Bush issued Presidential Proclamation 8225 declaring the Month of March 2008 as “Women’s History Month.” This proclamation recognized the achievements of women as diverse as Amelia Earhart, physicist Chien-Shiung Wu and Harriet Tubman who risked her life on the Underground Railway. Legislative Branch Documents The public laws between 1981 and 1986 which designate a week in March as "Women’s History Week" are available in the United States Statutes at Large which is available at many Federal depository libraries. The specific citations are as follows: Pub. L. 97-28, 95 Stat. 148 Pub. L. 98-3, 97 Stat. 6 Pub. L. 98-227, 98 Stat. 53 Pub. L. 99-3, 99 Stat. 5 Pub. L. 99-254, 100 Stat. 38 The public laws from 1989 to 1994 which designate the month of March as “Women’s History Month” are also available in the United States Statutes at Large. The enrolled, or final, version of several of these resolutions are available through THOMAS. Pub. L. 100-9, 101 Stat. 99 Pub. L. 100-257, 102 Stat. 26. Pub. L. 101-6, 103 Stat. 8 Pub. L. 102-70, 105 Stat. 329 Pub. L. 103-22, 107 Stat. 58 The 19th Amendment granted women the right to vote in Federal elections in 1920. The National Archives website has a 19th Amendment page which includes a copy of House Joint Resolution 1 proposing this amendment to the Constitution. Executive Branch Documents Presidential Proclamations and Executive Orders have been used by presidents to rule on substantive issues of law; to administrate the executive branch of government; and to make general announcements to the public. These general announcements which exhort the public to observe a holiday such as Thanksgiving or honor a particular group of citizens as in National Black History Month are usually issued in the form of a Presidential Proclamation. On many occasions Congress will pass a law specifically requesting the President to take certain action such as proclaiming the recognition of a particular group of citizens as Jewish or Hispanic Americans. Listed below are links to the Presidential Proclamations for "Women’s History Week" or "Women’s History Month" beginning with 1986 along with the citations to the Code of Federal Regulations or the Federal Register, the official publications for Presidential Proclamations. History of Women's History Month "Ain't I a Woman?" Performed by Alfre Woodard

It’s Beautiful!

So here we are jump starting a new week and getting ready to step into a new month as many of you may know that we only have one more day in the month of March before we will be in the month of April BOY! Time is moving so let's take this moment to be Thankful and reflect on these words of wisdom to HELP us get through the week and the new month ahead with Read: Mark 14:3-9 Bible in a Year: Judges 9-10; Luke 5:17-39 Jesus said, “Let her alone. Why do you trouble her? She has done a good work for Me.” —Mark 14:6 After being away on business, Terry wanted to pick up some small gifts for his children. The clerk at the airport gift shop recommended a number of costly items. “I don’t have that much money with me,” he said. “I need something less expensive.” The clerk tried to make him feel that he was being cheap. But Terry knew his children would be happy with whatever he gave them, because it came from a heart of love. And he was right—they loved the gifts he brought them. During Jesus’ last visit to the town of Bethany, Mary wanted to show her love for Him (Mark 14:3-9). So she brought “an alabaster flask of very costly oil of spikenard” and anointed Him (v.3). The disciples asked angrily, “Why this waste?” (Matt. 26:8). Jesus told them to stop troubling her, for “she has done a good work for Me” (Mark 14:6). Another translation reads, “She has done a beautiful thing to Me.” Jesus delighted in her gift, for it came from a heart of love. Even anointing Him for burial was beautiful! What would you like to give to Jesus to show your love? Your time, talent, treasure? It doesn’t matter if it’s costly or inexpensive, whether others understand or criticize. Whatever is given from a heart of love is beautiful to Him. —Anne Cetas Nothing I could give You, Father, could repay You for Your sacrifice. But I want to give You what You would think is beautiful. I give You my heart today in thankfulness for Your love. A healthy heart beats with love for Jesus. INSIGHT: The account of the woman who anointed Jesus with oil is preceded by the Pharisees’ plot to kill Him (14:1-2) and is followed by Judas agreeing to betray Him (vv. 10-12). The events relating to those who plotted to kill Jesus are given only brief and cursory treatment (two verses each), while the account of the woman who anointed Jesus with perfume is given a full and detailed description (seven verses). Clearly this woman’s actions will be remembered (v. 9).

Celebrating Palm Sunday

Today is Palm Sunday as we prepare ourselves for Resurrection Sunday let's take a moment to be Thankful and Grateful for ALL Jesus has done for us. Here is the meaning behind Palm Sunday. The story of Christ's resurrection is perhaps the single most important event to occur in the history of Christianity, for according to Paul in 1 Corinthians 15:17, "If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile, and you are still in your sins." The seven days before Easter Sunday are referred to as Holy Week, or the Passover season. These days are set aside to commemorate the brief life, death, and resurrection of Christ. Holy Week begins on Palm Sunday, or "Passion Sunday," a day on which Christians celebrate the triumphal entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, as foretold nearly 600 year prior by the prophet Zechariah. This year, Palm Sunday falls on March 29. According to the Biblical account found in the Gospel of John, people spread out palm branches before Jesus as he entered the city on a donkey, rejoicing in His presence and crying, "Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!" By waving palm branches, which symbolized goodness and victory, and using them to cover Jesus' path as He rode into the city on a donkey, the crowd indicated that the Son of God was revered and respected on the level of royalty. The celebration of Palm Sunday originated in the churches of Jerusalem sometime during the third or fourth century, and had spread as far as Constantinople by the fifth century. The celebration was adopted by the Western Church in the eighth century, and at that time received the name "Dominica in Palmis," or "Palm Sunday". Today, many Christian churches observe Palm Sunday by distributing palm, olive, or willow branches to worshipers, who then carry the branches in a procession either inside or outside the church. In some parts of the world, flowers are strewn about into the church sanctuary during the reading of the Gospel account Jesus' triumphal entry. Other Palm Sunday ceremonies and traditions, particularly those which take place in the Catholic Church, consist of the blessing of the palms, a procession and a mass wherein the Passion and the Benediction are sung. For Christians, Christ's triumphal entry is significant because it symbolizes the beginning of the greatest triumph the world had ever experienced: the ultimate defeat of sin and death. Below are several verses to reflect on as you consider Christ's brief life, sacrificial death, and resurrection this coming Palm Sunday. Zachariah 9:9: Rejoice greatly, O daughter Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter Jerusalem! Lo, your king comes to you; triumphant and victorious is he, humble and riding on a donkey Matthew 21:4-5: All this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying: Tell the daughter of Zion, 'Behold, your King is coming to you, lowly, and sitting on a donkey, a colt, the foal of a donkey.' John 12:12-13: The next day the great crowd that had come for the festival heard that Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem. 13 They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, "Hosanna! "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" "Blessed is the king of Israel!" John 3:3: And Jesus replied, "Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again." Isaiah 53:5: "But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." John 11:25-26: Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Romans 1:4-5 And Jesus Christ our Lord was shown to be the Son of God when God powerfully raised him from the dead by means of the Holy Spirit. Through Christ, God has given us the privilege and authority to tell Gentiles everywhere what God has done for them, so that they will believe and obey him, bringing glory to his name. Romans 6:8-11: Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:10-12:I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Wishing Every one a HAPPY PALM SUNDAY! Read more: http://www.gospelherald.com/articles/54893/20150325/palm-sunday-2015-history-dates-traditions-and-bible-verses-and-why-its-significant-for-christians.htm#ixzz3VpBgouPb

March Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

You maybe asking yourself What is Colorectal Cancer well here is the information and PLEASE if your over 50 PLEASE get check. Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second most common cause of cancer death among cancers affecting both men and women. In 2010, an estimated 102,900 new cases of colon and 39,670 cases of rectal cancer are expected to be diagnosed and an estimated 51,370 deaths from colorectal cancer are expected to occur. The real tragedy is that many of these cancer cases and cancer deaths occur needlessly, as they could be prevented if more people took advantage of colorectal cancer screening. Screening and early detection saves lives. When colorectal cancer is diagnosed at the localized stage, the 5 year survival rate is 90% and of course, many people live much longer than 5 years (and many are cured). Unfortunately, only 39% of cases are diagnosed at this localized stage. If the cancer is not detected until late stage, the 5 year survival rates drops to less than 12% . Furthermore, the disease can be prevented through the early identification and removal of pre-cancerous polyps, detectable only through colorectal cancer screenings. It is critical, therefore, that barriers to screening be eliminated. Guidelines from most major screening organizations recommend that all men and women at average risk for colorectal cancer get screened, beginning at age 50 by choosing one of several screening options. For more information, visit the American Cancer Society website.

Foley Artists

On this FRIDAY! We have come to the end of the week with only a couple of more days to we head into the 4 month of the new year, so let take a moment to reflect on this Read: John 16:7-15 Bible in a Year: Judges 1-3; Luke 4:1-30 Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light. —2 Corinthians 11:14 Crunch. Crunch. Whoosh! In the early days of film, Foley artists created sounds to support the story’s action. Squeezing a leather pouch filled with cornstarch made the sound of snow crunching, shaking a pair of gloves sounded like bird wings flapping, and waving a thin stick made a whoosh sound. To make movies as realistic as possible, these artists used creative techniques to replicate sounds. Like sounds, messages can be replicated. One of Satan’s most frequently used techniques is that of replicating messages in spiritually dangerous ways. Paul warns in 2 Corinthians 11:13-14, “For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ. And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light.” Paul is warning us about false teachers who turn our attention away from Jesus Christ and the message of His grace. Jesus said that one purpose of the Holy Spirit living in us is that “when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13). With the help and guidance of the Spirit, we can find the safety of truth in a world of counterfeit messages. —Bill Crowder We need You, Holy Spirit, to help us discern truth from error. We can be easily deceived by others or even by our own hearts. May we be open to learn from You and not be led astray. The Holy Spirit is our ever-present Teacher. INSIGHT: John 14 and 16 contain the most comprehensive record of Jesus’ teaching on the Holy Spirit. The Father sends the Holy Spirit in Jesus’ place to be our parakletos, which means “one called alongside to assist.” This word is translated as “Helper” in today’s passage (v. 7); other Bible translations use the words “Comforter” (KJV) and “Counselor” (NIV). He is also the Spirit of truth (v. 13) who illumines the Scriptures so we may understand the meaning of Jesus’ works and words (vv. 13-14).

Son Reflector

Here we are jump starting a New Week with Read: John 1:1-9

Bible in a Year: Joshua 13-15; Luke 1:57-80 This man came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light. —John 1:7 The cozy little village of Rjukan, Norway, is a delightful place to live—except during the dark days of winter. Located in a valley at the foot of the towering Gaustatoppen Mountain, the town receives no direct sunlight for nearly half of the year. Residents had long considered the idea of placing mirrors at the top of the mountain to reflect the sun. But the concept was not feasible until recently. In 2005, a local artist began “The Mirror Project” to bring together people who could turn the idea into reality. Eight years later, in October 2013, the mirrors went into action. Residents crowded into the town square to soak up the reflected sunlight. In a spiritual sense, much of the world is like the village of Rjukan—mountains of troubles keep the light of Jesus from getting through. But God strategically places His children to act as reflectors. One such person was John the Baptist, who came “to bear witness of the Light”—Jesus—who gives light “to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death” (John 1:7; Luke 1:79). Just as sunlight is essential for emotional and physical health, so exposure to the light of Jesus is essential for spiritual health. Thankfully, every believer is in a position to reflect His light into the world’s dark places. —Julie Ackerman Link Dear Father, help me to reflect Your light into the world around me today. May all that I say and do bear witness of Your light and truth. May others see how wonderful You are. A world in darkness needs the light of Jesus. INSIGHT: The author of the gospel of John is not the same John referred to in today’s reading (1:6). John the Baptist, the “man sent from God,” was the fulfillment of the “messenger” prophesied in Malachi 3:1 (see Mark 1:2-3). His main task was to introduce Jesus to the world and “to bear witness of the Light” (John 1:7-8). The miraculous circumstances of John’s birth are told in Luke 1:5-80. He was probably a cousin of Jesus (Luke 1:36), had the privilege to baptize Him (Matt. 3:13-15), and was imprisoned and later beheaded by Herod (14:1-12). His ministry is recorded in Matthew 3; 11:1-11; Mark 1:1-9; and Luke 3. Jesus said that of “those born of women” (i.e., those born by ordinary human birth), none is greater than John the Baptist (Matt. 11:11).

First Day Of Spring

This Morning when we woke up we embark on a New Season and that Season was Spring YES! I said it It's Spring time in most of the country. So on this day I just want to wish everyone a HAPPIE FIRST DAY OF SPRING! May this day be filled with JOY & BLESSINGS.

A Gift Of Hope

We have come to the end of the week and remember that ALL to familiar saying, "Thank God It's Friday!" well here we are it's Friday let's take a moment to be Grateful for ALL that GOD has brought us through this week with Read: Judges 13:1-7 Bible in a Year: Joshua 4-6; Luke 1:1-20 He shall begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Philistines. —Judges 13:5 When a powerful typhoon swept through the city of Tacloban, Philippines, in 2013, an estimated 10,000 people died, and many who survived found themselves homeless and jobless. Necessities became scarce. Three months later, while the town was still struggling to dig itself out from the destruction, a baby was born on a roadside near Tacloban amid torrents of rain and strong wind. Although the weather brought back painful memories, residents worked together to find a midwife and transport the mother and newborn to a clinic. The baby survived, thrived, and became a symbol of hope during a time of despair. Forty years of Philistine oppression marked a grim period in Israel’s national history. During this time, an angel informed an Israelite woman that she would give birth to a special son (Judg. 13:3). According to the angel, the baby would be a Nazirite—a man set apart to God—and would “begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Philistines” (v.5). The infant, Samson, was a gift of hope born in a troubled time. Trouble is unavoidable, yet Jesus has the power to rescue us from despair. Christ was born “to give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet in the way of peace” (Luke 1:76-79). —Jennifer Benson Schuldt Lord, help me to see beyond my circumstances and put my hope in You. All authority and power are Yours. Remind me of Your goodness, and let me rest in Your love. Jesus is the hope that calms life’s storms. INSIGHT: Samson was set apart as “a Nazirite to God” even before he was born (vv. 5,7).Nazirite means “dedicated” or “consecrated.” Numbers 6:1-21 sets out the requirements for those who were Nazirites. Besides Samson, other well-known Nazirites in the Bible are Samuel (1 Sam. 1:11) and John the Baptist (Luke 1:15).

Changing What it Means to be a Patient

Here is our March 2015 issue of CCFA'S Newsletter on ALL the things that are going on with CCFA. Letter from our President & CEO Help us help you! Become a CCFA Partner and join a revolutionary network of people with IBD who are determined to bring us closer to cures. As a partner, you'll have access to tools to help you better understand your health and you'll influence our game changing IBD research by proposing, discussing and voting on research questions. All you have to do is take a 30-minute survey twice a year – that's it! Joining is easy, just create an account and answer a few questions to get started. I hope you'll become a Partner today! Richard J. Geswell, CCFA President and CEO Thank you, Richard J. Geswell VIDEO: Changing What it Means to be a Patient Find out what makes CCFA Partners, our patient-powered research network, so special. WATCH THE VIDEO ► Aria's Story: Starting Over Aria was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis a week before starting kindergarten. She went on a maintenance medicine and was in remission for 9 months... and then things got much worse. For over a year, no treatment or medicine brought Aria any relief from her excruciating flare up. Finally, Aria had a proctocolectomy. Now at 8 years old, Aria's story is one of strength, success and raising awareness – not pain. Learn more and see Aria in the news! READ MORE ► Are You at Risk for Colorectal Cancer? March is Colorectal Cancer (CRC) Prevention Month, so now is the perfect time to review your risk for CRC with your healthcare provider. Risk factors for people with IBD include disease duration and the extent of the colon involved, and risk increases about 8 to 10 years after developing Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. To learn more, visit our site or contact the Help Center at info@ccfa.org. You can also attend our next Facebook event on Wednesday, March 25 at 5:00 pm ET. Hosted by Dr. Ganesh R. Veerappan, MD, Akron Digestive Disease Consultants, the event topic is Diagnostic Tests and Colon Cancer Prevention. LEARN MORE ► Do You Have Guts?! Curing IBD requires the ongoing support of dedicated friends like you. When you join Friends with Guts as a monthly donor, your commitment will help fund critical IBD research and sustain programs for people struggling emotionally and physically with IBD. Donate now Alternative Treatment for IBD Mark your calendar! Our next webinar will take place on Tuesday, May 12, and will explore complementary and alternative treatment approaches in IBD. Pre-register today! REGISTER ► Team Challenge takes you to Napa and Maine this summer! Experience the lush vineyards of Napa, the scenic shores of Portland, Maine, or the vibrant city of Dublin, Ireland with Team Challenge, CCFA's endurance training and fundraising program. Participate in a 16-week professional training program designed to meet your unique "walk or run" fitness needs. Get started now at a Team Challenge information meeting. GET STARTED ► Take Steps... Towards Cures! Get involved in the search for cures – join a Take Steps Walk today! This nationwide event takes place in over 140 communities and helps raise critical dollars to fund our mission. From groundbreaking research to patient education and outreach programs, we're working harder than ever to move forward and enhance the quality of life for patients. If you raise $100 or more and join the ranks of Take Steps MVPs (Most Valued Participants), you’ll receive an exclusive MVP t-shirt. Find your walk today! FIND A WALK ► Pizza for Cures If you're on the East Coast, get ready for pizza! We have another exciting Bertucci's promotion taking place on Tuesday, April 14. When you share this flier at one of the 88 participating locations, Bertucci's will donate 15% of your purchase (dine-in, take-out or delivery) to CCFA. If you live near a Bertucci's, please support this initiative and treat yourselves, family and friends to a pizza! GET THE FLIER ►

Meet Aria Love How she Take Steps with UC!

Here is a story of a young girl by the name of Aria Love who was diagnose with UC here is How she Take Steps with UC. My Story: Meet Aria Love Aria was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in August of 2011, a week before starting kindergarten. There is no family history of Crohn’s or colits and so the diagnosis was a total shock to us. She was put on a maintenance medicine and went into remission for 9 months. We thought, ‘This disease isn’t so bad.’ Little did we know what was ahead for us. In May of 2012, her symptoms returned and she was hospitalized for a week. Over the next year, Aria was on a multitude of medicines. We had tried every medicine out there, including prednisone, Remicade infusions and Humira shots. These did not bring her any relief. She remained in a constant flare from May of 2012 until August 7, 2013. This is the day that has forever changed our lives. Aria had a proctocolectomy (removal of her colon and rectum) with a J-pouch made in a 5-hour long surgery. She remained hospitalized for five days and was released. A day and a half after coming home, Aria developed an infection in her incision and ended up back in the hospital for another three days. She had an ileostomy bag for two months until her J-pouch (internal, makeshift colon) healed. On October 2, 2013, she had her second surgery where her ileum was connected to her J-pouch. The recovery time was shorter and she came home 3 days later from the hospital. This has been one of the most difficult decisions we have had to make as parents, but the result has been amazing! Aria is now healthy, happy and has her childhood back. The strength she has is amazing. Aria, now nine, has been very active in speaking out and bringing awareness to Crohn’s and Colitis by speaking openly and publicly about her disease. We spend many days contacting other families and children who are going through our same situation and offer them support. We have made many amazing friends along this journey and it is always bittersweet to meet new families suffering. The friendships that have evolved from meeting other kids with these diseases is amazing. You can see it on their faces that they are so happy to have someone who understands what they are going through. We are thankful for our amazing support group of family, friends and the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America who have helped us along this journey. We are in this together! Brooklyn Park girl raises awareness for digestive diseases

HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!

Well many of you may know that Today is St. Patrick's Day so on this day I just want to wish the Millions a very HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY! May this day be filled with lots of JOY and LAUGHTER. Celtic Women

A Good Name

So here we are preparing ourselves for a New Week and as we begin this new week let's take these words of wisdom and apply them to our lives. Read: Proverbs 10:2-15 Bible in a Year: Deuteronomy 28-29; Mark 14:54-72 A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches. —Proverbs 22:1 Charles Ponzi’s name will be forever associated with the financial fraud scheme he elevated to a way of life. After some minor financial crimes and brief times in jail, in early 1920 he began offering investors a 50 percent return on their money in 45 days and a 100 percent return in 90 days. Although it seemed too good to be true, the money poured in. Ponzi used money from new investors to pay prior investors and fund his lavish lifestyle. By the time his fraud was discovered in August 1920, investors had lost 20 million dollars and five banks had failed. Ponzi spent 3 years in prison, was later deported to Italy, and died penniless in 1949 at the age of 66. The Old Testament book of Proverbs frequently contrasts the reputations of wise and foolish people: “The memory of the righteous is blessed, but the name of the wicked will rot. . . . He who walks with integrity walks securely, but he who perverts his ways will become known” (Prov. 10:7,9). Solomon sums it up by saying, “A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, loving favor rather than silver and gold” (22:1). We seek a good name, not to honor ourselves but to glorify Christ our Lord whose name is above all names. —David McCasland Lord, You know what is best, and You desire to lead us in paths that are right and good. Give us the courage to trust and to follow You in the way of right living for Your name’s sake. A good name honors our great God. INSIGHT: The book of Proverbs provides good advice on how to live wisely. When reading the proverbs, it is important to understand that they are sayings about life that are usuallytrue. Proverbs are not promises, but they contain observations about the principle of cause and effect at work in our lives.

Giving Up Our Mirrors

We have made it to the end of the week it's FRIDAY! YES! as we head into the weekend let's take a moment to be Thankful and Grateful for ALL that as transpired in our lives with these words of wisdom, Read: Philippians 2:1-5 Bible in a Year: Deuteronomy 20-22; Mark 13:21-37 [Bezalel] made the laver of bronze and its base of bronze, from the bronze mirrors of the serving women. —Exodus 38:8 When Moses gathered the children of Israel together to begin work on the tabernacle (Ex. 35–39), he called on Bezalel, a gifted artisan, to help make the furnishings. We’re told that certain women were asked to give their precious bronze mirrors to make the bronze basin he was constructing (38:8). They gave them up to help prepare a place where God’s presence would reside. Give up our mirrors? For most of us, that would be hard to do. That’s not something we’re asked to do, but it makes me think about how too much scrutiny and self-examination can be disconcerting. It can make us think too much about ourselves and not enough about others. When we can forget about our own faces quickly and remember that God loves us as we are—in all our imperfections—then we can begin to “look out not only for [our] own interests, but also for the interests of others” (Phil. 2:4). Augustine said that we get lost in loving ourselves but found in loving others. Put another way, the secret of happiness is not getting our face right but giving our hearts away, giving our lives away, giving our selves away, in love. —David Roper Father, may I think more of others today than I think of myself. May I lose my thoughts about myself in my thoughts of other people and their needs. A heart that is focused on others will not be consumed with self. INSIGHT: Paul wrote the letter to the Philippians while he was under house arrest. He was waiting for a verdict that would either set him free or result in his execution. It was in these circumstances that he wrote about “consolation,” “comfort,” and “fellowship” (v. 1). Paul reminds the Philippians (and us) that these things come from our commitment to Christ. We have consolation in Christ, comfort from His love, and fellowship with the Spirit. All of our love for each other comes from following the example of Christ (vv. 2-5), which Paul explains in verses 6-11.

Cat Gate

So here we are getting ready to jump starting a new week with these words of wisdom I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. —John 10:9 Read: John 10:1-10 Bible in a Year: Deuteronomy 8-10; Mark 11:19-33 My husband, Jay, and I have a new family member—a 2-month-old tabby cat named Jasper. To keep our new kitten safe, we’ve had to break some old habits, like leaving doors open. But one thing remains a challenge: the open stairway. Cats like to climb. Even as kittens, they know that the world looks better when you’re looking down on it. So whenever I have Jasper downstairs with me, she is determined to go upstairs. Trying to keep her confined to a safe place near me has tested my ingenuity. Gates that work with children and dogs do not work with cats. My cat gate dilemma brings to mind the metaphor Jesus used to describe Himself: “I am the gate for the sheep,” He said (John 10:7 niv). Middle Eastern sheepfolds were enclosures with an opening for the sheep to go in and out. At night, when the sheep were safely inside, the shepherd would lie in the opening so that neither sheep nor predators could get past him. Although I want to keep Jasper safe, I am not willing to make myself the gate. I have other things to do. But that’s what Jesus Christ does for us. He places Himself between us and our enemy, the devil, to protect us from spiritual harm. —Julie Ackerman Link Thank You, Jesus, for being my gate. Through You I have salvation and by Your power I am safe from spiritual harm. Surround me with Your protection. I trust in You. The closer to the Shepherd, the farther from the wolf.

HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY!

Today marks International Women's Day so on this day I just want to take a moment to Celebrate and Honor ALL the many SHEROES that have made a difference in my life there are just to many to name LOL!. Here is the History on International Women's Day. International Women's Day has been observed since in the early 1900's, a time of great expansion and turbulence in the industrialized world that saw booming population growth and the rise of radical ideologies. 1908 Great unrest and critical debate was occurring amongst women. Women's oppression and inequality was spurring women to become more vocal and active in campaigning for change. Then in 1908, 15,000 women marched through New York City demanding shorter hours, better pay and voting rights. 1909 In accordance with a declaration by the Socialist Party of America, the first National Woman's Day (NWD) was observed across the United States on 28 February. Women continued to celebrate NWD on the last Sunday of February until 1913. 1910 n 1910 a second International Conference of Working Women was held in Copenhagen. A woman named a Clara Zetkin (Leader of the 'Women's Office' for the Social Democratic Party in Germany) tabled the idea of an International Women's Day. She proposed that every year in every country there should be a celebration on the same day - a Women's Day - to press for their demands. The conference of over 100 women from 17 countries, representing unions, socialist parties, working women's clubs, and including the first three women elected to the Finnish parliament, greeted Zetkin's suggestion with unanimous approval and thus International Women's Day was the result. 1911 Following the decision agreed at Copenhagen in 1911, International Women's Day (IWD) was honoured the first time in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland on 19 March. More than one million women and men attended IWD rallies campaigning for women's rights to work, vote, be trained, to hold public office and end discrimination. However less than a week later on 25 March, the tragic 'Triangle Fire' in New York City took the lives of more than 140 working women, most of them Italian and Jewish immigrants. This disastrous event drew significant attention to working conditions and labour legislation in the United States that became a focus of subsequent International Women's Day events. 1911 also saw women's 'Bread and Roses' campaign. 1913-1914 On the eve of World War I campaigning for peace, Russian women observed their first International Women's Day on the last Sunday in February 1913. In 1913 following discussions, International Women's Day was transferred to 8 March and this day has remained the global date for International Women's Day ever since. In 1914 further women across Europe held rallies to campaign against the war and to express women's solidarity. 1917 On the last Sunday of February, Russian women began a strike for "bread and peace" in response to the death over 2 million Russian soldiers in war. Opposed by political leaders the women continued to strike until four days later the Czar was forced to abdicate and the provisional Government granted women the right to vote. The date the women's strike commenced was Sunday 23 February on the Julian calendar then in use in Russia. This day on the Gregorian calendar in use elsewhere was 8 March. 1918 - 1999 Since its birth in the socialist movement, International Women's Day has grown to become a global day of recognition and celebration across developed and developing countries alike. For decades, IWD has grown from strength to strength annually. For many years the United Nations has held an annual IWD conference to coordinate international efforts for women's rights and participation in social, political and economic processes. 1975 was designated as 'International Women's Year' by the United Nations. Women's organisations and governments around the world have also observed IWD annually on 8 March by holding large-scale events that honour women's advancement and while diligently reminding of the continued vigilance and action required to ensure that women's equality is gained and maintained in all aspects of life. 2000 and beyond IWD is now an official holiday in Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, China (for women only), Cuba, Georgia, Guinea-Bissau, Eritrea, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Madagascar (for women only), Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Nepal (for women only), Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Vietnam and Zambia. The tradition sees men honouring their mothers, wives, girlfriends, colleagues, etc with flowers and small gifts. In some countries IWD has the equivalent status of Mother's Day where children give small presents to their mothers and grandmothers. The new millennium has witnessed a significant change and attitudinal shift in both women's and society's thoughts about women's equality and emancipation. Many from a younger generation feel that 'all the battles have been won for women' while many feminists from the 1970's know only too well the longevity and ingrained complexity of patriarchy. With more women in the boardroom, greater equality in legislative rights, and an increased critical mass of women's visibility as impressive role models in every aspect of life, one could think that women have gained true equality. The unfortunate fact is that women are still not paid equally to that of their male counterparts, women still are not present in equal numbers in business or politics, and globally women's education, health and the violence against them is worse than that of men. However, great improvements have been made. We do have female astronauts and prime ministers, school girls are welcomed into university, women can work and have a family, women have real choices. And so the tone and nature of IWD has, for the past few years, moved from being a reminder about the negatives to a celebration of the positives. GoogleAnnually on 8 March, thousands of events are held throughout the world to inspire women and celebrate achievements. A global web of rich and diverse local activity connects women from all around the world ranging from political rallies, business conferences, government activities and networking events through to local women's craft markets, theatric performances, fashion parades and more. Many global corporations have also started to more actively support IWD by running their own internal events and through supporting external ones. For example, on 8 March search engine and media giant Google some years even changes its logo on its global search pages. Year on year IWD is certainly increasing in status. The United States even designates the whole month of March as 'Women's History Month'. So make a difference, think globally and act locally !! Make everyday International Women's Day. Do your bit to ensure that the future for girls is bright, equal, safe and rewarding. International Women's Day 2015: A Message by UN Women's Executive Director

Selma 50TH Anniversary 50 Years Later

Today Marks the 50th Anniversary of Selma when I talk with my mother she told me that she was just 16 years of age when this took place as I reflected on what my mother had just shared with me I said WOW! we still have so far to go and here is what ABC News reported on Fifty Years After 'Bloody Sunday,' Obama Calls Selma a Place Where Meaning of America Was Defined Fifty years after civil-rights demonstrators were beaten and tear-gassed by police at the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Ala., the first African-American president took the stage at the bridge today to commemorate that major moment in American civil-rights history. "In one afternoon 50 years ago, so much of our turbulent history -- the stain of slavery and anguish of civil war; the yoke of segregation and tyranny of Jim Crow; the death of four little girls in Birmingham, and the dream of a Baptist preacher -- met on this bridge," Obama said, addressing a crowd gathered there. "It was not a clash of armies, but a clash of wills; a contest to determine the meaning of America," the president said. While praising the accomplishments of the marchers at Selma and across the country in the civil rights movement, he also reminded his listeners that the work is not finished. "We just need to open our eyes, and ears, and hearts, to know that this nation's racial history still casts its long shadow upon us," he said. "We know the march is not yet over, the race is not yet won, and that reaching that blessed destination where we are judged, all of us, by the content of our character -- requires admitting as much, facing up to the truth." Touching on the Justice Department's recent report finding rampant racism on the Ferguson, Mo., police department and a municipal government that used its police force to raise revenue, Obama said those findings were reminiscent of America before the late 1960s. "The report's narrative was sadly familiar," Obama said. "It evoked the kind of abuse and disregard for citizens that spawned the Civil Rights Movement." Despite the problems revealed in Ferguson, the president urged anyone listening not to forget the progress that's been made. "We do a disservice to the cause of justice by intimating that bias and discrimination are immutable, or that racial division is inherent to America. If you think nothing's changed in the past fifty years, ask somebody who lived through the Selma or Chicago or Los Angeles of the 1950s," Obama said. Obama appeared at the same bridge in Selma, Ala., addressing a crowd gathered there for a day of events marking the 50th anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery marches. He was introduced by John Lewis, the civil rights leader who now serves as a Democratic member of Congress. "I would've told you you're crazy," Lewis said, if anyone had told him 50 years ago that he would return to Selma to introduce the first African-American president. The first family -- President Obama, first lady Michelle Obama, daughters Sasha and Malia, and their grandmother Marian Robinson -- traveled to Selma to join thousands who have gathered there for the day of events, including lawmakers and former president George W. Bush. On March 7, 1965, civil-rights demonstrators led by now-Congressman John Lewis, D-Ga., and the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee were met with police violence when attempting to cross the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma as they marched toward Montgomery. Those clashes, reported and televised across the nation and the world, formed one of the major historic moments of the American civil-rights movement.

Solving The Mystery

YES! It is FRIDAY and we have come to the end of the week with these words of wisdom But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. —Romans 5:8 Read: Romans 5:1-11 Bible in a Year: Deuteronomy 1-2; Mark 10:1-31 One of the most popular tourist attractions in England is the giant stone pillars of Stonehenge. These massive pieces of granite are also a great source of mystery. Every year, people travel to Stonehenge with questions such as: Why were they erected? Who accomplished this extraordinary engineering marvel? And perhaps we wonder most of all how they did it. But visitors leave having received no answers from the silent stones. The mystery remains. The Scriptures speak of a greater mystery—the fact that God came to live among us as a man. Paul wrote in 1 Timothy 3:16, “Great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifested in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen by angels, preached among the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up in glory.” This brief overview of the life of Christ—the mystery of godliness—is remarkable. What prompted the Creator of the universe to come and live and die for His creation, however, is not a mystery. “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Rom. 5:8). God’s great love for us is at the root of the mystery of godliness, and the cross has made it plain for all to see. —Bill Crowder Lord, we may not understand everything You have done for us, or how You have done it. But we know You love us and sent Jesus to die for us, and that is all we need to know. How Christ became a human being may be a mystery, but God’s love isn’t.

National Pancake Day!

WOW! I didn't even know that today is National Pancake Day, so in honor of National Pancake Day here is a write up by USA Today writer Jessica Durando and here's what she said about National Pancake Day, Don't flip out. But this Tuesday could be better than your last. Breakfast lovers can get free pancakes today at IHOP restaurants as part of the restaurant chain's National Pancake Day festivities. And naturally #NationalPancakeDay is trending on Twitter in the USA. IHOP started offering free pancakes in 2006 and has raised nearly $16 million for charities, according to the company. This year, the goal is to raise $3.5 million with more than 1,500 stores participating. How does it work? Customers can receive a free short stack of buttermilk pancakes and if they are so inclined leave a donation for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals or other charities associated with IHOP. Only folks that dine-in are eligible. "Little did we dream, ten years ago, that thanks to the generosity of our guests, we would be able to raise $16 million, one short stack at a time, and make a substantial difference in the lives of the children in our local communities," said Julia Stewart, interim president of International House of Pancakes. And if you can't make it to IHOP today, we scanned Pinterest for you to see what mouth-watering pancake combos people were sharing that you could make at home. Cinnamon Roll Pancake We already love the fresh taste of Cinnabons. Now, add that same cinnamon flavor to pancakes. Banana Bread These pancakes make us think about our grandma's fresh-baked banana bread. The recipe calls for a some kitchen staples including baking soda, salt, brown and white sugar, cinnamon, buttermilk and vanilla. Don't forget to add the bananas! Apple Pie Pancakes with Vanilla Maple Syrup On the perfect summer day, apple pie with vanilla ice cream is delicious. But if you're not much of a pie-maker, take similar ingredients and make these pancakes. S'mores Pancakes Usually camping and s'mores go hand in hand. These s'mores pancakes let you have the same taste without the bugs. Birthday Cake Pancakes Party like it's your birthday with these scrumdiddlyumptious birthday cake pancakes. Raspberry Swirl Buttermilk Pancakes We're ending this list with a classic pancake twist. Plus with these raspberry swirl buttermilk pancakes you can technically pat yourself on the back for having some fruit in the morning. So here's wishing every one a HAPPIE NATIONAL PANCAKE DAY!

A Deadly Weapon

WOW! Welcome to the 3rd month of the New Year and a new week as we have entered into this new month, the month of March let's take a moment to reflect on this Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; . . . they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. —Isaiah 40:31 Read: Nehemiah 4:1-10 Bible in a Year: Numbers 26-27; Mark 8:1-21 Boxing legend Muhammad Ali used several ring tactics to defeat his opponents; one tactic was taunting. In his fight with George Foreman in 1974, Ali taunted Foreman, “Hit harder! Show me something, George. That don’t hurt. I thought you were supposed to be bad.” Fuming, Foreman punched away furiously, wasting his energy and weakening his confidence. It’s an old tactic. By referring to Nehemiah’s efforts at rebuilding the broken wall of Jerusalem as nothing more than a fox’s playground (Neh. 4:3), Tobiah intended to weaken the workers with poisonous words of discouragement. Goliath tried it on David by despising the boy’s simple weapons of a sling and stones (1 Sam. 17:41-44). A discouraging remark can be a deadly weapon. Nehemiah refused to surrender to Tobiah’s discouragements, just as David rejected Goliath’s diabolical teasing. Focusing on God and His help rather than on their discouraging situations, David and Nehemiah both achieved victory. Taunting can come from anybody, including those who are close to us. Responding to them negatively only saps our energy. But God encourages us through His promises: He will never forsake us (Ps. 9:10; Heb. 13:5), and He invites us to rely on His help (Heb. 4:16). —Lawrence Darmani Lord, it’s easy to let discouragement sap my energy and joy. Help me to reject all agents of discouragement in my life and to trust in You for comfort and strength. If you’re in a tunnel of discouragement, keep walking toward the Light.