Think there's nothing you can do to Spread the word about HIV/AIDS in 1 Minute?
Starring - Alicia Arinella & Jack Halaby
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistics Provided by: The Names Project Foundation- www.aidsquilt.org
Special Thanks: Janece Shaffer and everyone at The Names Project Foundation, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Help Prevent HIV/AIDS
Think there's nothing you can do to Help Fight HIV/AIDS in 1 Minute?
Starring - Julie Tortorici
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistics Provided by: Path, www.path.org
Special Thanks: Dawn Bass, Teresa Guillien and everyone at PATH, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Starring - Julie Tortorici
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistics Provided by: Path, www.path.org
Special Thanks: Dawn Bass, Teresa Guillien and everyone at PATH, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Sunday, November 28, 2010
About The AIDS Memorial Quilt
Below is our interview with Janece Shaffer, Director of Communications at The Names Project Foundation. The Names Project Foundation is the international caretaker of The AIDS Memorial Quilt. Find out more about this amazing, ongoing living memorial.
1. Can you tell us a little bit about the AIDS Memorial Quilt? Why was it started?
In October 1987, a group of friends gathered in a San Francisco storefront armed with an idea that would inspire their community, their country and ultimately the world. They gathered to remember the names of friends and loved ones lost to a disease that would be called AIDS. With fabric and markers, needles and thread, fear and hope, loss and love, they began to create what would become The AIDS Memorial Quilt -- the most democratic memorial ever made and the largest ongoing piece of community folk art in the world.
And so what began with a single name and a 3 foot by 6 foot stretch of fabric now includes more than 47,000 panels honoring more than 92,000 people lost to AIDS. This handmade memorial, a testament to entire lifetimes of love and joy, now forms one of the world’s most powerful weapons in the battle to educate about HIV/AIDS.
With teddy bears and Boy Scout badges, wedding rings and faded photographs, The AIDS Memorial Quilt is a vivid reminder that HIV/AIDS can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any age. It allows us to see not a disease or a set of statistics, but a mother, a child, a father or a brother. By revealing the humanity behind the statistics, The Quilt helps teach compassion, triumphs over taboo, stigma and phobia; and inspires individuals to take direct responsibility for their own well-being and that of their family, friends and community.
2. Does it raise funds for HIV/AIDS? If so, how does that work?
Since its founding in 1987, The NAMES Project Foundation, the international caretaker of The Quilt, has raised more than $4 million for direct services for people with AIDS.
The NAMES Project is committed to caring for the aging, handmade 54-ton AIDS Memorial Quilt so that it’s life saving messages can be shared with future generations. The costs associated with hosting a display of The Quilt also go to supporting and maintaining this important American treasure.
3. What is the Quilt made out of?
The Quilt is made up of 3-foot by 6-foot cloth panels that were created one at a time for individuals lost to HIV/AIDS and eight of these panels are bundled together to create a 12-foot by 12-foot section of Quilt. Every display of The Quilt is composed of these 12-foot by 12-foot Quilt sections.
The 47,000 panels of The Quilt are as unique as the individuals they memorialize and they include wedding rings, love letters, half a bowling ball, oil paintings, 100-year old quilts, snorkel masks, human hair, cowboy boots, shower curtain, photographs, stuffed animals, tuxedos – and so much more.
4. What is the historical and ongoing significance of the Quilt?
The AIDS Memorial Quilt is an ever changing, living memorial dedicated to the mission of remembrance, education, inspiration and conscience. And The NAMES Project works to preserve, care for and use The AIDS Memorial Quilt to foster healing, advance social justice and inspire action.
Throughout its history The Quilt – now recognized through an act of Congress as an American Treasure - has been used to fight prejudice, raise awareness and funding, as a means to link hands with the global community in the fight against AIDS, and as an effective tool in HIV and AIDS education and prevention
New single panels arrive at The NAMES Project on a regular basis and sections of The Quilt are continuously on display across the country – in middle and high schools, on college campuses, in places of worship, community centers, businesses, government centers and corporations – making the realities of HIV/AIDS shockingly real and moving to each of us regardless of ethnicity, class or social group.
Wherever it is displayed, The Quilt provides balm for the painful wounds of grief, pours oil into the waters made turbulent by controversy, opens eyes that refuse to see and enlists every person who experiences it to play a role in stopping the pandemic. It is difficult to walk away from The Quilt unchanged.
To learn more, please visit - The Names Project Foundation
1. Can you tell us a little bit about the AIDS Memorial Quilt? Why was it started?
In October 1987, a group of friends gathered in a San Francisco storefront armed with an idea that would inspire their community, their country and ultimately the world. They gathered to remember the names of friends and loved ones lost to a disease that would be called AIDS. With fabric and markers, needles and thread, fear and hope, loss and love, they began to create what would become The AIDS Memorial Quilt -- the most democratic memorial ever made and the largest ongoing piece of community folk art in the world.
And so what began with a single name and a 3 foot by 6 foot stretch of fabric now includes more than 47,000 panels honoring more than 92,000 people lost to AIDS. This handmade memorial, a testament to entire lifetimes of love and joy, now forms one of the world’s most powerful weapons in the battle to educate about HIV/AIDS.
With teddy bears and Boy Scout badges, wedding rings and faded photographs, The AIDS Memorial Quilt is a vivid reminder that HIV/AIDS can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any age. It allows us to see not a disease or a set of statistics, but a mother, a child, a father or a brother. By revealing the humanity behind the statistics, The Quilt helps teach compassion, triumphs over taboo, stigma and phobia; and inspires individuals to take direct responsibility for their own well-being and that of their family, friends and community.
2. Does it raise funds for HIV/AIDS? If so, how does that work?
Since its founding in 1987, The NAMES Project Foundation, the international caretaker of The Quilt, has raised more than $4 million for direct services for people with AIDS.
The NAMES Project is committed to caring for the aging, handmade 54-ton AIDS Memorial Quilt so that it’s life saving messages can be shared with future generations. The costs associated with hosting a display of The Quilt also go to supporting and maintaining this important American treasure.
3. What is the Quilt made out of?
The Quilt is made up of 3-foot by 6-foot cloth panels that were created one at a time for individuals lost to HIV/AIDS and eight of these panels are bundled together to create a 12-foot by 12-foot section of Quilt. Every display of The Quilt is composed of these 12-foot by 12-foot Quilt sections.
The 47,000 panels of The Quilt are as unique as the individuals they memorialize and they include wedding rings, love letters, half a bowling ball, oil paintings, 100-year old quilts, snorkel masks, human hair, cowboy boots, shower curtain, photographs, stuffed animals, tuxedos – and so much more.
4. What is the historical and ongoing significance of the Quilt?
The AIDS Memorial Quilt is an ever changing, living memorial dedicated to the mission of remembrance, education, inspiration and conscience. And The NAMES Project works to preserve, care for and use The AIDS Memorial Quilt to foster healing, advance social justice and inspire action.
Throughout its history The Quilt – now recognized through an act of Congress as an American Treasure - has been used to fight prejudice, raise awareness and funding, as a means to link hands with the global community in the fight against AIDS, and as an effective tool in HIV and AIDS education and prevention
New single panels arrive at The NAMES Project on a regular basis and sections of The Quilt are continuously on display across the country – in middle and high schools, on college campuses, in places of worship, community centers, businesses, government centers and corporations – making the realities of HIV/AIDS shockingly real and moving to each of us regardless of ethnicity, class or social group.
Wherever it is displayed, The Quilt provides balm for the painful wounds of grief, pours oil into the waters made turbulent by controversy, opens eyes that refuse to see and enlists every person who experiences it to play a role in stopping the pandemic. It is difficult to walk away from The Quilt unchanged.
To learn more, please visit - The Names Project Foundation
Saturday, November 27, 2010
The Thanksgiving Dilemma: Answered
The Thanksgiving Dilemma: Answered
There were so many comments about whether or not I should speak to my father about his water usage on Thanksgiving that I figured a follow-up was necessary.
For those readers out there that are coming in late and could use a recap, checkout last Sunday's blog: HERE.
After thinking about it I decided, what better time to talk to my father about his water habits, than on Thanksgiving? You can't get mad at someone on Thanksgiving, right? Isn't that some holiday rule? Feast and peace? So, I did.
I put it to him like this: "So, Dad, I hope you're not too mad about this, but I wrote a blog about how you hand wash your dishes and how I wish you wouldn't leave the faucet running when you walk away from the sink." Then I gave him that statistic from the EPA - which I horribly misquoted - but I believe he got the idea because he agreed to be more mindful! He was totally game and ready to try it out.
After dinner on Thanksgiving, I was happy to hear the faucet shutting on and off. The sound of a constant steady stream from year's passed was no longer. Later on, when I asked how it went, he said he wasn't perfect, but it went pretty well and I've got to say... he looked proud.
So this Thanksgiving, I gave thanks for an open-minded dad who was willing to reshape one of his habits for both the earth and his daughter.
There were so many comments about whether or not I should speak to my father about his water usage on Thanksgiving that I figured a follow-up was necessary.
For those readers out there that are coming in late and could use a recap, checkout last Sunday's blog: HERE.
After thinking about it I decided, what better time to talk to my father about his water habits, than on Thanksgiving? You can't get mad at someone on Thanksgiving, right? Isn't that some holiday rule? Feast and peace? So, I did.
I put it to him like this: "So, Dad, I hope you're not too mad about this, but I wrote a blog about how you hand wash your dishes and how I wish you wouldn't leave the faucet running when you walk away from the sink." Then I gave him that statistic from the EPA - which I horribly misquoted - but I believe he got the idea because he agreed to be more mindful! He was totally game and ready to try it out.
After dinner on Thanksgiving, I was happy to hear the faucet shutting on and off. The sound of a constant steady stream from year's passed was no longer. Later on, when I asked how it went, he said he wasn't perfect, but it went pretty well and I've got to say... he looked proud.
So this Thanksgiving, I gave thanks for an open-minded dad who was willing to reshape one of his habits for both the earth and his daughter.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Help Fight Hunger in NYC This Holiday Season
Think there's nothing you can do to Help Fight Hunger in New York City in 1 Minute?
Starring - Jack Halaby
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistics Provided by: City Harvest, www.cityharvest.org
Special Thanks: Heather Wallace and everyone at City Harvest, Griselda Garcia and everyone at The Daily News, James Long and everyone at the FDNY, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Starring - Jack Halaby
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistics Provided by: City Harvest, www.cityharvest.org
Special Thanks: Heather Wallace and everyone at City Harvest, Griselda Garcia and everyone at The Daily News, James Long and everyone at the FDNY, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Happy Thanksgiving
Think there's nothing you can do to Give Back This Thanksgiving in 1 Minute?
Starring - Tom Morwick
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Special Thanks: Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Starring - Tom Morwick
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Special Thanks: Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Help Fight Hunger This Thanksgiving
Think there's nothing you can do to Fight Hunger on Thanksgiving in 1 Minute?
Starring - Ashleigh Awusie
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Special Thanks: Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Starring - Ashleigh Awusie
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Special Thanks: Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Conserve Water this Thanksgiving
Think there's nothing you can do to Conserve Water on Thanksgiving in 1 Minute?
Starring - Nikaury Rodriguez
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: The EPA, www.epa.gov
Special Thanks: Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Starring - Nikaury Rodriguez
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: The EPA, www.epa.gov
Special Thanks: Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Monday, November 22, 2010
Wear Your Seat Belt
Think there's nothing you can do to Travel Safely this Thanksgiving in 1 Minute?
Starring - Michaela King
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: The National Traffic Safety Administration, www.nhtsa.gov
Special Thanks: Michele Dellinger, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Starring - Michaela King
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: The National Traffic Safety Administration, www.nhtsa.gov
Special Thanks: Michele Dellinger, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Sunday, November 21, 2010
A Thanksgiving Dilemma
My dad is a water addict. Don't get me wrong, I'm no water conservation hero either. I have many a 'let-the-water-run slip-ups, however my father is an H2Ohmygod do you really need those twelve gallons of water to wash that spoon person. After beginning "What You Can Do", watching my father's water consumption in the kitchen sometimes causes me to have heart palpitations. He's a full blast, dawdle while you wash dish washer.
Since my dad would likely assume you could cook a pot roast in the blender, he puts in his share of the holiday workload by doing the dishes. He does them every year and it's always assumed that it's his gig. This year though, I've decided to ask him to be more mindful as he hand washes the plates and such. To shut off the faucet if he needs to walk away from the sink to grab a dish. To shut the water off again if he needs to scrub something for any length of time. What do you think - is that judgmental or is it environmental of me? I myself have resolved to be more aware of when I'm turning the sink on and off as well. DO turn the sink on when rinsing a dish. DON'T turn the sink on when scrubbing a dish. And I know my dad won't want me to co-opt his dish duty, since traditionally, my dad does the dishes, my mom and I cook and my sister clears the table.
So is his water usage my business?
Before you answer, check out this statistic: according to the EPA, if every household in the US reduced their water use by ten gallons on Thanksgiving, we’d save more than one billion gallons of water.
Does the environment trump politeness? Should I risk it?
Since my dad would likely assume you could cook a pot roast in the blender, he puts in his share of the holiday workload by doing the dishes. He does them every year and it's always assumed that it's his gig. This year though, I've decided to ask him to be more mindful as he hand washes the plates and such. To shut off the faucet if he needs to walk away from the sink to grab a dish. To shut the water off again if he needs to scrub something for any length of time. What do you think - is that judgmental or is it environmental of me? I myself have resolved to be more aware of when I'm turning the sink on and off as well. DO turn the sink on when rinsing a dish. DON'T turn the sink on when scrubbing a dish. And I know my dad won't want me to co-opt his dish duty, since traditionally, my dad does the dishes, my mom and I cook and my sister clears the table.
So is his water usage my business?
Before you answer, check out this statistic: according to the EPA, if every household in the US reduced their water use by ten gallons on Thanksgiving, we’d save more than one billion gallons of water.
Does the environment trump politeness? Should I risk it?
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Part 2 of our interview with Dark Ranger Kevin Poe - Protect the Night
Learn why it's important to protect the night sky.
Special Thanks: Dark Ranger Kevin Poe
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
and www.iamthedarkranger.com
Special Thanks: Dark Ranger Kevin Poe
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
and www.iamthedarkranger.com
Friday, November 19, 2010
Protect the Night Sky for Your Health
Think there's nothing you can do to Help Protect The Night Sky in 1 Minute?
Starring - Dark Ranger Kevin Poe
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: The International Dark Sky Association, www.darksky.org
Special Thanks: Rowena Davis and everyone at the International Dark Sky Association, Dark Ranger Kevin Poe, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Starring - Dark Ranger Kevin Poe
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: The International Dark Sky Association, www.darksky.org
Special Thanks: Rowena Davis and everyone at the International Dark Sky Association, Dark Ranger Kevin Poe, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Help Protect Wildlife
Think there's nothing you can do to Help Protect Wildlife in 1 Minute?
Starring - Jack Halaby
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: The International Dark Sky Association, www.darksky.org
Special Thanks: Rowena Davis and everyone at the International Dark Sky Association, Dark Ranger Kevin Poe, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Starring - Jack Halaby
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: The International Dark Sky Association, www.darksky.org
Special Thanks: Rowena Davis and everyone at the International Dark Sky Association, Dark Ranger Kevin Poe, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Help Protect Birds
Think there's nothing you can do to Help Protect Birds in 1 Minute?
Starring - Alicia Arinella
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: The International Dark Sky Association, www.darksky.org
Special Thanks: Rowena Davis and everyone at the International Dark Sky Association, Dark Ranger Kevin Poe, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Starring - Alicia Arinella
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: The International Dark Sky Association, www.darksky.org
Special Thanks: Rowena Davis and everyone at the International Dark Sky Association, Dark Ranger Kevin Poe, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Protect the Night Sky - Safety
Think there's nothing you can do to Protect the Night Sky in 1 Minute?
Starring - Jack Halaby
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: The International Dark Sky Association, www.darksky.org
Special Thanks: Rowena Davis and everyone at the International Dark Sky Association, Dark Ranger Kevin Poe, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Starring - Jack Halaby
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: The International Dark Sky Association, www.darksky.org
Special Thanks: Rowena Davis and everyone at the International Dark Sky Association, Dark Ranger Kevin Poe, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Monday, November 15, 2010
Learn About The Night Sky
Think there's nothing you can do to Protect the Night Sky in 1 Minute?
Starring - Dark Ranger Kevin Poe
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: The International Dark Sky Association, www.darksky.org
Special Thanks: Rowena Davis and everyone at the International Dark Sky Association, Dark Ranger Kevin Poe, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Starring - Dark Ranger Kevin Poe
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: The International Dark Sky Association, www.darksky.org
Special Thanks: Rowena Davis and everyone at the International Dark Sky Association, Dark Ranger Kevin Poe, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Support Our Troops - Closing Blog
Before you read this, open your medicine cabinet and gloss over it. Done? Okay, now run to your living room and count your DVD’s. Back again? Now take a look in your pantry. Check. Now think about where it all came from - drug stores, superstores, grocery stores. Maybe you couldn’t find the exact product you were looking for, so you walked a couple of blocks and boom, there it was: your favorite brand of roll-on, non-flakey, extra-protection, shower fresh-scented deodorant. Whew, because you definitely could not live without it. I know, I’m the same way.
Now plop yourself in the mountains of Afghanistan. Sure you are in the US Armed Forces but you are still in Afghanistan. Where is all the stuff? The tissues with lotion, the cheese puffs with real cheddar, the movies with George Clooney. Good luck finding any of it.
Am I the only one who really didn’t give this serious thought? The first time someone mentioned in one of the interviews I was doing for these episodes that they were sending soldiers socks, I thought, socks? But think of the places where we get all of this stuff for ourselves. There is no megastore in the mountains of Afghanistan. So where is this stuff going to come from if not from us?
It is one thing to not be able to wrap my head around the reality of war, but I would have to be a complete space cadet to not comprehend what it might feel like not to have access to such basic necessities. So, think of a soldier as your neighbor. You’re going out to the store and you ask your neighbor if they need anything. Imagine that each time, your neighbor says “yes” about one item. Pick it up, put it in a box and at the end of the month, ship it off to an organization that sends care packages. Because, after all, we do care.
Now plop yourself in the mountains of Afghanistan. Sure you are in the US Armed Forces but you are still in Afghanistan. Where is all the stuff? The tissues with lotion, the cheese puffs with real cheddar, the movies with George Clooney. Good luck finding any of it.
Am I the only one who really didn’t give this serious thought? The first time someone mentioned in one of the interviews I was doing for these episodes that they were sending soldiers socks, I thought, socks? But think of the places where we get all of this stuff for ourselves. There is no megastore in the mountains of Afghanistan. So where is this stuff going to come from if not from us?
It is one thing to not be able to wrap my head around the reality of war, but I would have to be a complete space cadet to not comprehend what it might feel like not to have access to such basic necessities. So, think of a soldier as your neighbor. You’re going out to the store and you ask your neighbor if they need anything. Imagine that each time, your neighbor says “yes” about one item. Pick it up, put it in a box and at the end of the month, ship it off to an organization that sends care packages. Because, after all, we do care.
Friday, November 12, 2010
What You Can Do presents: Support a Soldier's Family
Action Link: http://www.soldiersangels.org
Starring: Julie Tortorici and Grace Tortorici
Written by: Karen T. Hartline
Shot, Edited and Directed by: Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistics Provided by: Soldiers Angels, http://www.soldiersangels.org
Special Thanks:
Toby Nunn and everyone at Soldiers Angels
Dennis Arinella
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Support the Troops from the Road
Think there's nothing you can do to Support our Troops from the Road in 1 Minute?
Starring - Alicia Arinella & Jack Halaby
Written by - Karen T. Hartline
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: Support Our Troops, www.supportourtroops.org
Special Thanks: Martin Boire and everyone at Support Our Troops, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Starring - Alicia Arinella & Jack Halaby
Written by - Karen T. Hartline
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: Support Our Troops, www.supportourtroops.org
Special Thanks: Martin Boire and everyone at Support Our Troops, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Support a Returning Service Member
Think there's nothing you can do to Support a Returning Service Member in 1 Minute?
Starring - Tom Morwick
Written by - Karen T. Hartline
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: Veterans and Their Families, www.veteransandtheirfamilies.org
Special Thanks: Ted Reed and everyone at Veterans and Their Families, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Starring - Tom Morwick
Written by - Karen T. Hartline
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: Veterans and Their Families, www.veteransandtheirfamilies.org
Special Thanks: Ted Reed and everyone at Veterans and Their Families, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Support Deployed Soldiers
Think there's nothing you can do to Help Support our Troops in 1 Minute?
Starring - Rulie Noyola
Written by - Karen T. Hartline
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: Support Our Troops, www.supportourtroops.org
Special Thanks: Martine Boire and everyone at Support Our Troops, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Starring - Rulie Noyola
Written by - Karen T. Hartline
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: Support Our Troops, www.supportourtroops.org
Special Thanks: Martine Boire and everyone at Support Our Troops, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Monday, November 8, 2010
Support a Deployed Service Member
Think there's nothing you can do to Help Support a Service Member in 1 Minute?
Starring - Shirley Heller
Written by - Karen T. Hartline
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: Soldier's Angels, www.soldiersangels.org
Special Thanks: Toby Nunn and everyone at Soldier's Angels, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Starring - Shirley Heller
Written by - Karen T. Hartline
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: Soldier's Angels, www.soldiersangels.org
Special Thanks: Toby Nunn and everyone at Soldier's Angels, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Sunday, November 7, 2010
An Interview with a Cause-USA Volunteer
Jonathan is a senior in high school and a volunteer at Cause in the digital entertainment library program (C-DEL) as well as the Massage Marathon Team. He organized a fundraiser at his school that raised over $1200 and generated a significant amount of awareness about Cause and their programs to help veterans.
Below is my interview with him about his experiences volunteering with Cause.
What made you join an organization like Cause?
I originally heard about Cause through my sister, who has been a devoted Cause volunteer for many years now. The idea of helping wounded soldiers was very appealing to me.
What is the most difficult reality that you have had to face through your work with Cause?
I would have to say, that the most difficult reality I faced came when I was just getting started. You can see war scene after war scene in the latest Hollywood film, or replay the most emotive parts of Pearl Harbor to yourself countless times, yet seeing soldiers barely a year or two my senior in the physical situation they were in was quite a pill to swallow. The first time I saw a soldier waltz through the Mologne house sans leg, I didn’t know what to say, what to do or how to act. I was in shock. Then, over time, I realized that the only element missing from the care-loaded patients’ day was possibly the most vital: the human aspect - be it a smile, a joke or random anecdote. The most humbling realization was that the most effective thing we could offer is a sense of normality in a very abnormal environment.
What results have you seen due to your work with the organization?
I truly believe that as a result of volunteering, I have grown as a person. I have found a whole new appreciation for what these soldiers do and what truly remarkable men and women they are. Prior to volunteering, I may have had a basic understanding of the situation soldiers were in after war, but volunteering has really brought it home. Soldier’s appreciation for what seems like such little work on my part is quite incredible.
How do you think, in general, people can best pay tribute to the military and all that they do for our country, even if they only have a moment to spare in their busy lives.
Too many volunteers is never really a bad thing, however, I believe the best way the general public can pay tribute to military personnel is by devoting a little bit of time out of their day to the military. They could put together a gift pack, share a simple anecdote, or even just saying “thank you for your service.” Human interaction can be the most effective catalyst to recovery.
If you'd like more information about volunteer opportunities at Cause, please visit www.cause-usa.org for more information. We'd also like to send out a special thank you to Kara Johnson at Cause for all of her help with facilitating the interview!
Below is my interview with him about his experiences volunteering with Cause.
What made you join an organization like Cause?
I originally heard about Cause through my sister, who has been a devoted Cause volunteer for many years now. The idea of helping wounded soldiers was very appealing to me.
What is the most difficult reality that you have had to face through your work with Cause?
I would have to say, that the most difficult reality I faced came when I was just getting started. You can see war scene after war scene in the latest Hollywood film, or replay the most emotive parts of Pearl Harbor to yourself countless times, yet seeing soldiers barely a year or two my senior in the physical situation they were in was quite a pill to swallow. The first time I saw a soldier waltz through the Mologne house sans leg, I didn’t know what to say, what to do or how to act. I was in shock. Then, over time, I realized that the only element missing from the care-loaded patients’ day was possibly the most vital: the human aspect - be it a smile, a joke or random anecdote. The most humbling realization was that the most effective thing we could offer is a sense of normality in a very abnormal environment.
What results have you seen due to your work with the organization?
I truly believe that as a result of volunteering, I have grown as a person. I have found a whole new appreciation for what these soldiers do and what truly remarkable men and women they are. Prior to volunteering, I may have had a basic understanding of the situation soldiers were in after war, but volunteering has really brought it home. Soldier’s appreciation for what seems like such little work on my part is quite incredible.
How do you think, in general, people can best pay tribute to the military and all that they do for our country, even if they only have a moment to spare in their busy lives.
Too many volunteers is never really a bad thing, however, I believe the best way the general public can pay tribute to military personnel is by devoting a little bit of time out of their day to the military. They could put together a gift pack, share a simple anecdote, or even just saying “thank you for your service.” Human interaction can be the most effective catalyst to recovery.
If you'd like more information about volunteer opportunities at Cause, please visit www.cause-usa.org for more information. We'd also like to send out a special thank you to Kara Johnson at Cause for all of her help with facilitating the interview!
Saturday, November 6, 2010
An Interview with The Skin Cancer Foundation (Part 2)
What ingredients should people look for in a sunscreen? Is there a level of SPF (Sun Protection Factor) that is most useful?
We recommend using sunscreens that protect against both ultraviolet B (UVB) and ultraviolet A (UVA) rays – both of which have been linked to skin cancer. For proper UVB protection, use an SPF 15 or higher sunscreen every day. For extended outdoor activities, a water-resistant SPF 30 is preferred. For effective UVA protection, select products that contain some combination of avobenzone, oxybenzone, mexoryl, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. When it comes to sunscreen, be sure to use enough (two tablespoons for the entire body and a nickel-sized amount on the face), and to reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.
Sunscreen is only part of a complete sun protection program. To help prevent skin cancer, the Foundation has always recommended covering up with clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses. Click here to read the Skin Cancer Foundation’s complete list of Prevention Guidelines.
What, in your experience, is the greatest misconception about skin cancer?
Many people take a laissez-faire attitude towards sun protection because they think the damage is already done. However, we now know that sun damage continues to add up over the years, and the cumulative effects can lead to skin cancer. A recent study showed that we get less than 25 percent of our total sun exposure by age 18. The amount of sun exposure we receive accumulates as follows:
Between the ages of… Cumulative average percentage of lifetime sun exposure*
1-18 22.73 percent
19-40 46.53 percent
41-59 73.7 percent
60-78 100 percent
*based on a 78 year lifespan
To find out more about how to help fight skin cancer, please visit - The Skin Cancer Foundation
We recommend using sunscreens that protect against both ultraviolet B (UVB) and ultraviolet A (UVA) rays – both of which have been linked to skin cancer. For proper UVB protection, use an SPF 15 or higher sunscreen every day. For extended outdoor activities, a water-resistant SPF 30 is preferred. For effective UVA protection, select products that contain some combination of avobenzone, oxybenzone, mexoryl, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. When it comes to sunscreen, be sure to use enough (two tablespoons for the entire body and a nickel-sized amount on the face), and to reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.
Sunscreen is only part of a complete sun protection program. To help prevent skin cancer, the Foundation has always recommended covering up with clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses. Click here to read the Skin Cancer Foundation’s complete list of Prevention Guidelines.
What, in your experience, is the greatest misconception about skin cancer?
Many people take a laissez-faire attitude towards sun protection because they think the damage is already done. However, we now know that sun damage continues to add up over the years, and the cumulative effects can lead to skin cancer. A recent study showed that we get less than 25 percent of our total sun exposure by age 18. The amount of sun exposure we receive accumulates as follows:
Between the ages of… Cumulative average percentage of lifetime sun exposure*
1-18 22.73 percent
19-40 46.53 percent
41-59 73.7 percent
60-78 100 percent
*based on a 78 year lifespan
To find out more about how to help fight skin cancer, please visit - The Skin Cancer Foundation
Friday, November 5, 2010
Help Fight Colon Cancer
Think there's nothing you can do to Help fight Colon Cancer in 1 Minute?
Starring - Rulie Noyola
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: The Colon Cancer Alliance, www.ccalliance.org
Special Thanks: Jasmine Greenamyer, Tammy Ashton and everyone at The Colon Cancer Alliance, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Starring - Rulie Noyola
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: The Colon Cancer Alliance, www.ccalliance.org
Special Thanks: Jasmine Greenamyer, Tammy Ashton and everyone at The Colon Cancer Alliance, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Help Fight Lung Cancer
Think there's nothing you can do to Help fight Lung Cancer in 1 Minute?
Starring - Alicia Arinella
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: The Lung Cancer Alliance, www.lungcanceralliance.org
Special Thanks: Kay Cofrancesco and everyone at The Lung Cancer Alliance, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Starring - Alicia Arinella
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: The Lung Cancer Alliance, www.lungcanceralliance.org
Special Thanks: Kay Cofrancesco and everyone at The Lung Cancer Alliance, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Help Fight Ovarian and Breast Cancer
Action Link: http://www.sharecancersupport.org:80/services/hotlines/
Starring: Shirley Heller
Written by: Jessica Arinella and Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by: Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistics provided by: SHARE, http://www.sharecancersupport.org
Special Thanks:
Beth Kling and everyone at Share
Dennis Arinella
Starring: Shirley Heller
Written by: Jessica Arinella and Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by: Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistics provided by: SHARE, http://www.sharecancersupport.org
Special Thanks:
Beth Kling and everyone at Share
Dennis Arinella
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
What You Can Do Presents: Skin Cancer
Action Link: http://www.skincancer.org/Skin-Cancer-Facts/
Starring: Julie Tortorici
Written by: Jessica Arinella and Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by: Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistics Provided by: The Skin Cancer Foundation, www.skincancer.org
Special Thanks:
Rebecca Wiley and everyone at The Skin Cancer Foundation
Dennis Arinella
Monday, November 1, 2010
Help Fight Blood Cancers
Think there's nothing you can do to Help fight Blood Cancers in 1 Minute?
Starring - Michaela King
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, www.leukemia-lymphoma.org
Special Thanks: Andrea Greif and everyone at The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
Starring - Michaela King
Written by - Jessica Arinella & Julie Tortorici
Shot, Edited and Directed by - Alicia Arinella
Produced by: On the Leesh Productions
Music by: Banana Whale
What You Can Do Logo Created by: SCG Siddharth Creative Group
Additional Footage Provided by: Shutterstock, Inc. Used by Permission
Statistical Information provided by: The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, www.leukemia-lymphoma.org
Special Thanks: Andrea Greif and everyone at The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, and Dennis Arinella
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
For more information, please visit - www.whatyoucando365.com
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