Last year, I decided to give up meat for Lent. This February marks one year of my being meat-free. I admit, because I was never a big meat-eater (I mostly ate chicken and an occasional hamburger) I didn't think it would be that difficult. It was, actually, tougher than I thought. Anytime you tell yourself you CAN'T have something, of course, makes you want it more. I've been craving a Swenson's burger from day one!
My reasons for the decision were personal, and when someone would ask, I would share those reasons. But I have tried hard not to come off as preachy, or cause-driven at the least, or judgmental at the worst.
I've eaten meat for 50 years. In the past 2 years, however, I have learned through reading books, articles and watching documentaries on PBS and HBO that like many big businesses there is a great deal of corruption in the factory farming industry in general and the meat industry in particular. So I hope if you decide to read on, you will know that I do not have a problem with people who still choose to eat meat, but just want to share what I have learned because there has been more and more publicity on this subject of late. In fact, this past week, Oprah aired a program on where our meat comes from, and several of my friends said "wow, the stuff exposed on this show is what you have been talking about!".
Like so many industries, the meat industry has gotten very big--Walmart big, and has not had the right kind of regulation. Too much regulation would put restrictions on these companies that would cause a profit loss. So, the big corporations behind these huge factory farms use their money get the lobbyists keep the laws and restrictions light. As this country has witnessed, big business with little regulation can certainly lead to corruption as we've seen in our financial, pharmaceutical, and other industries. For the purpose of profit, livestock has turned into a mass-production business. Problem is, we are eating the results of this mass production, and the results are causing major health issues. Back in the day, cattle used to graze on grass on acres of land. Hens and chickens were cage free. Pigs lived on farms with room to eat and grow. It takes a few years for an animal to grow to an adult so they can be slaughtered for food, and factory farms have found a more profitable way of producing more livestock to grow more quickly.
Many researchers believe (although the stories are squashed) that the reason our young girls are developing breasts and going through puberty as early as 8 years old is due to the hormones in our meat and poultry supply, added to spur quick growth. The antibiotics injected into these animals is adding to the crisis of resistance to disease. There are many studies linking the additives in our food supply, even in the insecticides and pesticides used to grow vegetables inside factory farms, to causing so much of the cancer and autism rates we've seen in the past 10 years.
And INSIDE is the key word. On so many of these farms, calves, cattle, pigs and poultry never see the sun. They never see the outside of a pen. They are born, raised and slaughtered indoors. The same is true for so many of our vegetables. The red, green and yellow peppers that looks so perfect in our stores are artificially colored, and grow inside, under UV lights with additives some researchers say take away their nutritional value.
And if you are still reading, the living conditions of living feeling creatures inside so many (not all) of these farms is heartbreaking, and the slaughter technique used by many big business farms is horrific. There are ways to do a clean kill that are not being practiced. Pigs (one of the most intelligent animals next to humans and chimps) are often thrown into vats alive, to have their hair removed as are many calves. It takes too much time to kill them first. The cattle experience their horns being cut off, multiple brandings, and tagging of ears with staple guns; while pigs have their tails removed, which is excruciating as it is their pain mechanism, so they won't move in their pens for the time they are grown.
I never knew, never wanted to know where the meat I ate came from. I'd go to the grocery store, buy it, cook it and eat it. But now that I know, my passion on the subject, both for the cause of our health, and for animal welfare makes me want to speak out. I am mostly alone in my meat-free lifestyle. There are only 3 other people in my life who do not eat meat. So I am not suggesting no one eat meat anymore. I am suggesting that with a little research, (made easy with the Internet) you can find local farms that raise their animals and grow their produce the old-fashioned way. Supporting those farmers will be healthier for everyone. And you can feel better that the animals were treated humanely and lived a good life.
I know some believe it isn't appropriate to post cause-related subjects or information on a social networking site like Facebook; and that it should only be used for connecting with friends. While I keep learning lessons about how to use new media technology, and I know it has its blessings and curses, overall I believe social networking can be used to foster positive change because it can get information out to so many so quickly. And there are some causes I do believe are worth sharing. When I have posted links and information on animal welfare, or on the controversial Issue 2 last fall, the postings on my wall got intense and a few people were offended. I am sorry about that. And I learned a few lessons. A friend of mine who explained the benefits of Issue 2 (which passed by the way) assures me that its passing will actually help put a stop to some of the abuses in Ohio that were happening. I hope she is right.
I hope social networking can be used for the good, in that useful and thought-provoking information can be shared in a positive, informative, productive and not mean-spirited way. And I will work toward that goal in my future posts.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Communication Advice... from Mom
I recall a piece of advice my mom gave me years ago, when I was in grade school school. After a crackdown on note writing in class where teachers would catch note passers and read notes aloud she said "don't ever write anything down on a piece of paper you wouldn't want read in front of the whole class." In this age of digital communication and Instant-everything, from texts to Facebook posts, Tweets, Snapchats, and email (which is almost old-school) the advice rings truer than ever, but now its "don't post anything you don't want read across the world in an instant.",
Innocent notes passed in class in 6th grade have turned into "sexting". Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat has kids who don't have the maturity to understand the consequence of their words and digital actions has them making mistakes that could follow them a lifetime. Online bullying is at an all time high with consequences that often end in life-change, or life-ending results. Anyone in IT will you delete doesn't really mean delete. Once is posted, tweeted or sent, it's out there forever, and can come back to haunt you. If its profound and good, all the better, but if its not... well, ask any number of celebrities and politicians who have gotten caught with their pants down (so to speak).
So what to do when you have a thought, an opinion, a frustration that you just have to vent?
I have a technique I've shared with my kids and others others that has worked for me and it's cheaper than therapy. When I was young, I found that whenever I was extremely passionate about something...whether I was working through a decision, was very upset or sad, or especially angry with someone, I would express it by writing it down. On paper. Most of the time, I would vent, cry, and rant and then, I'd go outside and light the paper I wrote everything on and watch it burn. The negativity would go up in smoke and I would mentally let it go. It now seems rather Zen-like. Hmmm maybe I was ahead of my time!
I believe its a technique that still works, although through the years I've adapted it to the computer. When I'm making a difficult decision I write down the pros and cons...in a word document--not online or in an email or a post. Whether it relates to a job, a money issue, or more importantly, how to talk to someone about a difficult issue; personal or professional--writing your thoughts down gives you the chance to state your entire thought process with no interruption or argument. Then, walk away from the document. Wait on it. Mediate on it. Pray on it. Maybe for an hour, maybe 24.
I often find when I re-read my words, I can see how they may be taken if I was the recipient. I can edit your my message, see how often I repeat my point (something I am guilty of) and I see clearly the way I handle myself when upset, angry or struggling through something. Sometimes I read what I've written and think "wow" I came off like a jerk and I'm so glad I didn't have that conversation then! If it was a purchase I was considering, I often don't want it the next day, or, conversely, I still do, and feel better it wasn't an impulse. Often, a good night sleep changes the way I look at something, and 24 hours later, it just doesn't seem that important.
In this age of instant communication we need to slow down and work through it. Giving your thoughts more time can prevent a lot of damage. To ourselves, our relationships, maybe even our finances. Maybe there are some things that were better about the way Mom use to do it.
Innocent notes passed in class in 6th grade have turned into "sexting". Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat has kids who don't have the maturity to understand the consequence of their words and digital actions has them making mistakes that could follow them a lifetime. Online bullying is at an all time high with consequences that often end in life-change, or life-ending results. Anyone in IT will you delete doesn't really mean delete. Once is posted, tweeted or sent, it's out there forever, and can come back to haunt you. If its profound and good, all the better, but if its not... well, ask any number of celebrities and politicians who have gotten caught with their pants down (so to speak).
So what to do when you have a thought, an opinion, a frustration that you just have to vent?
I have a technique I've shared with my kids and others others that has worked for me and it's cheaper than therapy. When I was young, I found that whenever I was extremely passionate about something...whether I was working through a decision, was very upset or sad, or especially angry with someone, I would express it by writing it down. On paper. Most of the time, I would vent, cry, and rant and then, I'd go outside and light the paper I wrote everything on and watch it burn. The negativity would go up in smoke and I would mentally let it go. It now seems rather Zen-like. Hmmm maybe I was ahead of my time!
I believe its a technique that still works, although through the years I've adapted it to the computer. When I'm making a difficult decision I write down the pros and cons...in a word document--not online or in an email or a post. Whether it relates to a job, a money issue, or more importantly, how to talk to someone about a difficult issue; personal or professional--writing your thoughts down gives you the chance to state your entire thought process with no interruption or argument. Then, walk away from the document. Wait on it. Mediate on it. Pray on it. Maybe for an hour, maybe 24.
I often find when I re-read my words, I can see how they may be taken if I was the recipient. I can edit your my message, see how often I repeat my point (something I am guilty of) and I see clearly the way I handle myself when upset, angry or struggling through something. Sometimes I read what I've written and think "wow" I came off like a jerk and I'm so glad I didn't have that conversation then! If it was a purchase I was considering, I often don't want it the next day, or, conversely, I still do, and feel better it wasn't an impulse. Often, a good night sleep changes the way I look at something, and 24 hours later, it just doesn't seem that important.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Tree of Lights
If you live, have worked or driven through the West Market Street corridor in Akron, between West Point Market and Acme over the years, you've probably noticed the long strands of twinkling lights that adorn the Akron Radio Center every holiday season.
Those 5,000 bulbs strung diagonally 3 stories high in the shape of a tree, with the beautiful star on top is more than just a festive annual holiday display. Each and every bulb represents a $5 donation, and every penny benefits Haven Of Rest Ministries here in Akron.
This Thursday through Saturday December 3rd through the 5th, members of the WQMX staff are holding our annual Tree Of Lights Radiothon. It's our goal to light every bulb on the tree and the star on top to beat last year's goal of $30,000 raised for Haven Of Rest Ministries.
Haven Of Rest provides food, clothing, shelter and educational programs to needy and homeless men, women and children. The Haven gets no money from the government, and relies on donations from generous business owners, corporations and individuals like you and me.
The Akron Radio center is the home of 3 great Akron radio stations 94.9 FM WQMX. 97.5 FM WONE, and 1590 AM WAKR, as well as the online news source for Akron: www.akronnewsnow.com. It is very important to the owner of these radio stations, Thom Mandel, that his stations support worthy causes in the community all year long. At this time of year, especially, when the weather turns cold, and thoughts are focused on giving, Thom's country station 94.9 WQMX presents the this extra special fund-raiser in the hopes hearts will be touched to give to this worthy organization.
A side note on the Tree Of Lights: country music fans may remember the legendary Akron country radio station, WSLR. Years ago, then program director Nick Anthony coordinated some of the first Tree Of Lights campaigns with the legendary disc jockey Jaybird Drennan, along with Rick Carderelli and my late husband Phil Cordle; broadcasting from the O'Neil's department store window in downtown Akron. Years later Nick brought the concept back to life as the Senior VP of Programming here at WQMX. For me, personally, it is wonderful to be a part of the Akron tradition that my husband was also a part of...while raising money for such a great cause.
If you'd like to help, you can donate to the Haven Of Rest by phone at 877-535-1563 or you can stop by the station until 7pm these next 3 days and make your donation in person. We're at 1795 West Market Street in West Akron.
God bless you for your support, whether it be financial or prayful.
Those 5,000 bulbs strung diagonally 3 stories high in the shape of a tree, with the beautiful star on top is more than just a festive annual holiday display. Each and every bulb represents a $5 donation, and every penny benefits Haven Of Rest Ministries here in Akron.
This Thursday through Saturday December 3rd through the 5th, members of the WQMX staff are holding our annual Tree Of Lights Radiothon. It's our goal to light every bulb on the tree and the star on top to beat last year's goal of $30,000 raised for Haven Of Rest Ministries.
Haven Of Rest provides food, clothing, shelter and educational programs to needy and homeless men, women and children. The Haven gets no money from the government, and relies on donations from generous business owners, corporations and individuals like you and me.
The Akron Radio center is the home of 3 great Akron radio stations 94.9 FM WQMX. 97.5 FM WONE, and 1590 AM WAKR, as well as the online news source for Akron: www.akronnewsnow.com. It is very important to the owner of these radio stations, Thom Mandel, that his stations support worthy causes in the community all year long. At this time of year, especially, when the weather turns cold, and thoughts are focused on giving, Thom's country station 94.9 WQMX presents the this extra special fund-raiser in the hopes hearts will be touched to give to this worthy organization.
A side note on the Tree Of Lights: country music fans may remember the legendary Akron country radio station, WSLR. Years ago, then program director Nick Anthony coordinated some of the first Tree Of Lights campaigns with the legendary disc jockey Jaybird Drennan, along with Rick Carderelli and my late husband Phil Cordle; broadcasting from the O'Neil's department store window in downtown Akron. Years later Nick brought the concept back to life as the Senior VP of Programming here at WQMX. For me, personally, it is wonderful to be a part of the Akron tradition that my husband was also a part of...while raising money for such a great cause.
If you'd like to help, you can donate to the Haven Of Rest by phone at 877-535-1563 or you can stop by the station until 7pm these next 3 days and make your donation in person. We're at 1795 West Market Street in West Akron.
God bless you for your support, whether it be financial or prayful.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Top 10 Things the Internet has Killed (or at least changed )
I found the following article, from The London Telegraph newspaper interesting and wanted to share the story. The author examined how the Internet has changed the way we work, play and even think. "Tasks that once took days can be completed in seconds, while traditions and skills that emerged over centuries have been made all but redundant," writes reporter Matthew Moore.
Here is his list of the Top 10 things, the Internet has killed or changed in our lives:
1. The art of polite disagreement -- The tone of debate has greatly sharpened and thanks to the anonymity, people can post cruel messages they never would dare say aloud to someone's face.
2. Telephone directories -- It's easier and faster to look up a phone number or address online than it is to dust off the White Pages.
3. Music stores -- No one wants to pay for music anymore since they can get it for free on the Internet.
4. Letter writing and pen pals -- A handwritten letter--ink on paper with a postage stamp--is fast becoming a relic since e-mail is faster, easier and cheaper.
The death of the handwritten letter has also taken with it the valediction, "Sincerely yours." Now we have "Best" and "Cheers." Or nothing at all.
5. Memory -- Can't remember the name of that actress who popped up in a new TV show? In just seconds, Google or Wikipedia will answer any question you think up, no matter how obscure. There is no need to remember facts when we can find them so quickly and easily.
6. Doing nothing -- When you have nothing to do, chances are you get online. Back in the day, you would have picked up a book, taken a walk in the park, played with your kids, hit the couch for a nap or just stared out your window watching the sun set. Now you check your e-mail and the status messages of your Facebook friends.
7. Photo albums and slide shows -- Printed photos are so old-fashioned. Now you post your digital photos online to share with friends and family. (Hint, Grandma still likes to get the printed photos. Be nice and print a few for her.)
8. Respect for doctors -- Thanks to all the health and medical information available online, we all think we know as much as the people who actually went to medical school.
9. Privacy -- It's not the government that takes away your privacy! You do that yourself when you post every little detail about your life on Facebook, Twitter and MySpace.
10. Newspapers -- It's hard to sustain a business model where the news is always a day old and subscribers have to pay for it. Instead, you can get your news right now and free on the Web.
So while the Internet has offered us much and greatly enriched our lives, it has also taken away things--things that used to be precious or at least an ingrained part of our daily lives.
Here is his list of the Top 10 things, the Internet has killed or changed in our lives:
1. The art of polite disagreement -- The tone of debate has greatly sharpened and thanks to the anonymity, people can post cruel messages they never would dare say aloud to someone's face.
2. Telephone directories -- It's easier and faster to look up a phone number or address online than it is to dust off the White Pages.
3. Music stores -- No one wants to pay for music anymore since they can get it for free on the Internet.
4. Letter writing and pen pals -- A handwritten letter--ink on paper with a postage stamp--is fast becoming a relic since e-mail is faster, easier and cheaper.
The death of the handwritten letter has also taken with it the valediction, "Sincerely yours." Now we have "Best" and "Cheers." Or nothing at all.
5. Memory -- Can't remember the name of that actress who popped up in a new TV show? In just seconds, Google or Wikipedia will answer any question you think up, no matter how obscure. There is no need to remember facts when we can find them so quickly and easily.
6. Doing nothing -- When you have nothing to do, chances are you get online. Back in the day, you would have picked up a book, taken a walk in the park, played with your kids, hit the couch for a nap or just stared out your window watching the sun set. Now you check your e-mail and the status messages of your Facebook friends.
7. Photo albums and slide shows -- Printed photos are so old-fashioned. Now you post your digital photos online to share with friends and family. (Hint, Grandma still likes to get the printed photos. Be nice and print a few for her.)
8. Respect for doctors -- Thanks to all the health and medical information available online, we all think we know as much as the people who actually went to medical school.
9. Privacy -- It's not the government that takes away your privacy! You do that yourself when you post every little detail about your life on Facebook, Twitter and MySpace.
10. Newspapers -- It's hard to sustain a business model where the news is always a day old and subscribers have to pay for it. Instead, you can get your news right now and free on the Web.
So while the Internet has offered us much and greatly enriched our lives, it has also taken away things--things that used to be precious or at least an ingrained part of our daily lives.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Neighbors Helping Neighbors
In the summer of 2007, my sister and her husband, Martha and Dan Mosher hired a delivery person to deliver products to hospitals for their company Mosher Medical. Alan Watt has proven to be an excellent employee with his attention to detail and strong work ethic. He never complains, even when the deliveries take him late into the evening driving through a Northeastern Ohio snowstorm. He's one of those people that when you meet him, you somehow feel good. Like somehow, you'll be better for knowing him.
Last year, Alan needed to take a few days off to take his wife Teresa for some medical testing. Many tests and procedures were performed until the doctors finally delivered the dismal news. Teresa, a young mother of three little girls, was diagnosed with Stage 4 ovarian cancer.
Teresa and Alan are raising their family in a 1920's farmhouse with limited funds. The house is in desperate need of repairs. Last winter, the girls had to sleep on the living room floor because the upstairs windows were broken to the point they could not keep heat in the second floor. This summer they were without running water for 3 weeks. A generous neighbor was able to repair their well which remedied the water problem, but there are many more needs. Their furnace and water heater needs replaced and the electric system in their home needs brought up to safety standards. They are months behind in their mortgage payments and their medical bills, even with health insurance, have become overwhelming. They were looking at alternative medicine but have had to put off going to seek additional treatment because they don't have enough gas money to make the trip. Teresa contributes to the family income by teaching at the school the girls attend, but as the cancer spreads she will be unable to continue working. These are hardworking people that life has just thrown them into difficult circumstances. They would never ask for help. In fact, they often express their gratitude for what they do have, instead of complaining about what they do not have. They are truly inspiring.
I think the world of my sister and brother in law. They have worked hard to help Alan and his family beyond what a normal employer might do. It was no coincidence that Alan walked to fill an open position at their company. I believe God puts people together for a reason.
Generous friends and neighbors have stepped in to do what they can—but now, the medical bills and housing needs as we approach this upcoming winter have become insurmountable. We know that our world is full of generous and caring people that are willing to help a neighbor in need, even when you don’t know them personally. We’re hoping if we all pull together, and everyone can give just a little, we can help this family.
The short-term goal is to provide funds to enable them to keep their home and facilitate the necessary repairs as we approach this winter. The long-term goal is to set aside money for the girls educational needs in the future. A benevolent fund has been set up at First Merit Bank to raise money to meet these goals.
Please view the following link to meet the Alan Watt Family and consider donating to the benevolent fund. http://moshermedia.com/watt.html
You can stop by any First Merit bank location or mail your donation in any amount to:
First Merit
30 Springside Drive
Akron, Oh 44333
Make check payable to: Alan Watt Family Benevolent Fund
Thank you so very much, in advance, for your consideration.
Last year, Alan needed to take a few days off to take his wife Teresa for some medical testing. Many tests and procedures were performed until the doctors finally delivered the dismal news. Teresa, a young mother of three little girls, was diagnosed with Stage 4 ovarian cancer.
Teresa and Alan are raising their family in a 1920's farmhouse with limited funds. The house is in desperate need of repairs. Last winter, the girls had to sleep on the living room floor because the upstairs windows were broken to the point they could not keep heat in the second floor. This summer they were without running water for 3 weeks. A generous neighbor was able to repair their well which remedied the water problem, but there are many more needs. Their furnace and water heater needs replaced and the electric system in their home needs brought up to safety standards. They are months behind in their mortgage payments and their medical bills, even with health insurance, have become overwhelming. They were looking at alternative medicine but have had to put off going to seek additional treatment because they don't have enough gas money to make the trip. Teresa contributes to the family income by teaching at the school the girls attend, but as the cancer spreads she will be unable to continue working. These are hardworking people that life has just thrown them into difficult circumstances. They would never ask for help. In fact, they often express their gratitude for what they do have, instead of complaining about what they do not have. They are truly inspiring.
I think the world of my sister and brother in law. They have worked hard to help Alan and his family beyond what a normal employer might do. It was no coincidence that Alan walked to fill an open position at their company. I believe God puts people together for a reason.
Generous friends and neighbors have stepped in to do what they can—but now, the medical bills and housing needs as we approach this upcoming winter have become insurmountable. We know that our world is full of generous and caring people that are willing to help a neighbor in need, even when you don’t know them personally. We’re hoping if we all pull together, and everyone can give just a little, we can help this family.
The short-term goal is to provide funds to enable them to keep their home and facilitate the necessary repairs as we approach this winter. The long-term goal is to set aside money for the girls educational needs in the future. A benevolent fund has been set up at First Merit Bank to raise money to meet these goals.
Please view the following link to meet the Alan Watt Family and consider donating to the benevolent fund. http://moshermedia.com/watt.html
You can stop by any First Merit bank location or mail your donation in any amount to:
First Merit
30 Springside Drive
Akron, Oh 44333
Make check payable to: Alan Watt Family Benevolent Fund
Thank you so very much, in advance, for your consideration.
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