Three Wise Monkeys: See Non-Profit. Hear Non-Profit. Speak Non-Profit

Goodbye, Three Wise Monkeys. Hello, Health Nuts.

2009-06-23T17:22:00.001-07:00

Ladies and gentlemen, it's been a pleasure :). I will be moving back to "Health Nuts" the healthcare channel so please join me as I continue my journey towards becoming a Registered Dietitian (among all other things I want to be in life!). It has been a pleasure.

(Curtsies. Exits stage.)

DOGOODER! DOGOODER! Watch All About It!

2009-05-03T17:20:00.000-07:00

There's a lot of information out there that I wish I knew...I wish I was exposed to, on a daily basis. I'm very selective when it comes to news just because, there are some things I could care less about and some things I wish they included to share with the rest of the world. Unfortunately, I have no control over what stories are covered on the news or front pages of magazines. But I do have control over this one entry, on this day, on Experience.com.

My life was changed today. Just like any other day, by people I've never met. I got inspired. My spirits have been uplifted, my skies became a little clearer.

It's called dogooder.tv.

I read about it from The NonProfit Times website, "The Leading Business Publication for NonProfit Management." They were announcing the winners of the 3rd Annual DoGooderTV NonProfit Video Awards. There are four winners...I watched them all.

What is it? A place for nonprofit organizations to present new videos and existing media assets to new audiences. It also allows visitors to be inspired, and provides them with the information to donate to the organization, join, volunteer, or simply find out more information.

Definitely an eye-opener and action-trigger(er). Definitely worth checking out.

Photo Courtesy ecoscraps.com

While you're here, here's a preview of what I witnessed on this beautiful Spring evening:

For more information, visit www.childrensdefense.com

Flu Fears

2009-04-24T16:23:00.000-07:00

I first heard about it just yesterday, 5 minutes before the end of my shift, when I walked into the Chief of Nutrition Services' office to check out. "The World Health Organization (WHO) just announced an flu outbreak in Mexico that's already killed 16 people," he exclaimed staring at his monitor. I was speechless. I didn't know what to say.

The minute I got home I looked into it. I felt obliged to know, for my own existence. It's called the swine influenza (swine flu), a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza that regularly cause outbreaks of influenza among pigs. This human infection affects the lungs and the cause of death is respiratory distress and/or illness. According to the WHO, the 16 people who died from the swine flu were healthy and young adults. Which, by far, is the scariest thought. A vaccine is available that reduces the effects of the virus. However, civilians of Mexico City claim that hospitals are running out considering the 1,000 people who have already been infected. More recently there has been cases in California and Texas. Luckily, there has been no deaths in the U.S. For more information, watch video below:

ABC News Tips:

Cover your mouth when you sneeze
Wash your hands frequently
If experiencing any flu-like symptoms, see your doctor

Photo courtesy New York Times

May the Source Be With You

2009-04-11T11:23:00.000-07:00

They call themselves...the Nonprofit Career Network (www.nonprofitcareer.com), a website dedicated to the nonprofit sector of today's business and economic world. I suggest you check it out if you're at all interested in stepping into this world.

"Our mission is to be a complete, one-stop resource center for Nonprofit organizations, Individuals seeking job opportunities in a nonprofit organization, and People who want to volunteer to make a difference in this world."

If you fit into any of the people categories mentioned above, this website is probably for you. Here you are able to search for jobs, post jobs, submit your resume, attain access to a directory of nonprofit organizations and/or professional services, and have access to volunteer services.

"Our focus is on bringing people together - to identify the people who want to participate in the nonprofit sector and the organizations that have a need for those people. Our resources will help to save time and money by taking advantage of the power of the Internet - fast, centralized access to information."

Like I said..."May the source be with you."

Photos courtesy N onprofit Career Network and Entertainment Weekly

Got Muscle?

2009-04-10T07:19:00.000-07:00

I'm about to hit the gym in T minus 60 minutes...and I think there's something you all need to know. I, Monica, like many other people who work out there, have no idea what I'm doing...most of the time. Especially when it comes to the machines. I'll even admit to the fact that I used to have this inexplicable fear of treadmills, mainly because I felt like they were controlling me. I was always the type to run outside, on concrete, where I'm on top of the world and control everything. Things have changed since then. Because I live in Chicago where seasons seem to change in a matter of days and you are forced to start running indoors.

Where was I?

Machines...not knowing what I'm doing. Right! So this morning I did something I should've done about a year ago when I first signed up for Bally Total Fitness...I went on their website, and checked to see what they had to offer besides personal trainers. They offer WORKOUT TOOLS that you can print and take with you! These include: weight loss programs, muscle development plans , and even sports conditioning workout plans for six different sports. Immediately after finding these, I went ahead and printed out "Muscle Development Play - 5 Days" and watched every video that showed what the exercise machines I'm supposed to use look like, and how they work. If those don't do it for you, make your own fitness plan here. Two words: "Duh, Monica." WHY DIDN'T I THINK OF DOING THIS SOONER?!

Ladies and gentlemen, I can now go to the gym and not have to read the directions on every machine and actually know what I'm doing.

Thank you, Bally (and the wonderful world of internet)!

Photo courtesy Bally Total Fitness and Franchise International

Just MOVE! It

2009-03-30T13:35:00.000-07:00

Just signed up for Move! Weight Management Program's 2009 Champions' Challenge. Only half way through my day and I already feel accomplished. Although it's not required for my clinical rotation, I figured, why not? I'm pretty confident that it will help (not harm) my goal to reach a healthy body weight range...and I'm always, always, up for a challenge!

What is it?

Move! is a national weight management program designed by the VA National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention (NCP), a part of the Office of Patient Care Services, to help veterans lose weight, keep it off and improve their health.

NCP and Veterans Canteen Service (VCS) are partnering to sponsor this challenge. This year's challenge is designed to help promote the new US Department of Health and Human Services 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans .

When is it?
March 29, 2009-June 20, 2009

Goal?

To complete 150 minutes or more of moderate intensity physical activity for 8 out of 12 weeks during the challenge. Online registration is open from March 29, 2009 - April 30, 2009 at www.move.va.gov/challenge.asp

What's in it for me?
On top of all the benefits of daily physical activity, I will be earning milestone prizes along the way! All participants who complete the challenge will be eligible for entry into a national prize drawing sponsored by Veterans Canteen Service!

So what are you waiting for?
BE ACTIVE YOUR WAY VA!...and MOVE!

Photo by:

VA MidSouth Healthcare Network

step-outdoors.com

Sushi! Sake! Sushi! Sake!

2009-03-21T05:04:00.000-07:00

Went out to this local Japanese steakhouse last night with the other interns for my roommate's birthday. Always an amazing feeling when you satisfy a sushi craving! I ordered the Saginaw Roll...because I'm currently living in Saginaw and had to have the roll (sort of like how I felt this need to only drink Michigan wine while I'm out here). We got to talking about sushi etiquette, and how we were all probably doing it all wrong. Out of curiousity, I did a little of research. According to Chicago Tribune reporter Monica Eng, and the chef from a sushi restaurant in Chicago called Itto Sushi, here is the proper way:

Things I picked up from this video:

You could eat sushi with your hands.
When adding wasabi into your soy sauce, use the opposite end of your chopsticks.
When dipping nigiri into your soy sauce, only dip the side with the meat (when you did the rice, it will fall off).
You don't always have to drink sake like a shot!

Ahh, things you learn on youtube. ;)

Tangent: While in Chicago, my friend also told me I absolutely HAD to try the sushi at NoMI which is a restaurant located in the Park Hyatt Hotel off Michigan Ave. Although it will be a lot of damage, she guarantees I won't regret it.

This Man Called "Jack"

2009-03-19T19:50:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I met a man. I shall call him...Jack. Jack changed my life, you see. He made me realize that this thing I've been identifying as fear when it comes to chasing my dreams, was excitement. He inspired me to be the best possible version of myself, and be excited to be her. He taught me that it really is possible to make your dreams come true...and that all you really have to do...is to just go out there and do it.

Jack's real name is Gusmano Cesaretti, an Italian photographer who has spent his life doing the very thing that keeps him alive, and loving every minute of it. Now, any other time I would've just convinced myself that it was a mere coincidence that we ended up in the same room at the same time, eating the same exact meal and sitting right next to each other. But this...for whatever reason, ended up being that person who will change my life...forever. He's inspired me in so many ways I can't even begin to explain myself. It just is. Can't hardly breathe/wait kind. I hope it sticks. I'm going to have to make it.

I've been researching like crazy for volunteer/internship programs all over the world that would suit me perfectly. It's kind of disappointing, however, to find that the time I'm willing to volunteer to help others is going to cost me a lot more than I bargained for. The solution? Try harder. Research more. And just like that, I ran into this: http://www.volunteersouthamerica.net//. There's gotta be more out there. But alas, a website that actually helps you look for opportunities that won't charge you ridiculous costs for helping you find a program that's right for you.

After all, only we know what's right for us, no?

Photo by:
Gusmano Cesaretti

Green Eggs & Boxty

2009-03-12T19:06:00.000-07:00

Do you know what I'd like to do this weekend more than anything? Watch the Chicago River turn green. (RIGHT?!) Picture this. Forty pounds of vegetable food coloring, into the Chicago River...how can you not want to?!

Maybe it's me. Maybe because I spent the entire day baking and icing 576 cookies shaped like Shamrocks. Maybe because I have this inexplicable craving for all things Irish, including a Shamrock Shake from McDonald's, which technically isn't Irish. Or maybe, maybe I'm just all for seeing, tasting, feeling and eating things I've never seen, tasted, felt nor ate. This is what I live for!

Am I scaring you? Stay with me. There's more. I swear.

Top 5 Irish-American Foods I'd Like to Eat This Weekend:
Recipes and photos brought to you by freep.com.

a large potato pancake wrapped around meat
bangers and mash - Irish sausages served on top of mashed potatoes
a fresh boxty or Irish bacon

4. corned beef and cabbage

5. Shepherd's pie

Irish Greeting of the Day:
Mora na maidine dhuit.
Top of the morning to you.
More-uh nah mod-gin-uh g-wit.

Images from:
www.greenchicagoriver.com
www.freep.com

Spring Break 2009: WOOHOO!

2009-03-02T18:28:00.000-08:00

It's that time of the year again for Mid-westerners like myself. TIME TO GET OUT OF THIS COLD WEATHER! I woke up this morning and it was 8 F degrees. Woulda coulda shoulda warmed up my car. I don't know why I keep telling myself "it's getting warmer out" when it's clearly not! Oh, Michigan. Why must you tease me so?

I spent the entire weekend trying to figure out where I want to go. I don't think you understand how badly I need to go somewhere. This internship is really kicking me in the butt, shins, ankles, you name it! Mainly because my schedule is pretty hectic and random. From having to come to work at 7am, to 11:30am, to 5:30am, etc. Hence my lack of blogging. No stability, here. Lack of sleep, however, is undoubtedly all over here! But that's okay, because it's what I want, and I will do whatever it takes to get what I want. BRING IT.

And, considering the fact that I am no longer in college and no longer celebrate "Spring Break", I refuse to think differently. I, Monica, am a grad student who is considering "Memorial Day Weekend" my very own "SPRING BREAK 2009 WOOHOO?!" In denial, much? I think not! After all, it is the ONE day off I have during this entire 8-month internship and refuse to let anyone tell me different.

And so, ladies and gents, here are my options:

3-day cruise to Baja Mexico
volunteer for Habitat for Humanity New Orleans
weekend getaway to San Diego, CA

It's funny, because, I have no money. But I need this. More than you will ever know.

Operation Getting "There"

2009-02-17T18:45:00.000-08:00

You know that feeling of not being able to breathe, not being able to look up from the ground, the inability to move on? Of feeling stuck, and lost, at the same time. That feeling, I've felt before. We all have. We've all been there. We've also been to a place in our lives when we have to re-establish a breathing pattern, when we have to carry the weight on our shoulders and force ourselves to look back up, when we have to move on. It's just a matter of time and perspective...and the hope that everything will be okay.

I'm there. I'm right there. I'm sprawled all over "there".

Today my heart smiled. It picked up its broken pieces floating about, put itself back together, and smiled.

Why? Because of the Volunteer Adventure Corps. Because of these:

I'm chasing the dream. My dream. End of story.

Images and video from: Volunteer Adventure Corps

Hearts on Sleeves: Network Away

2009-02-11T05:19:00.000-08:00

When it comes to growing up...WE'RE ON OUR OWN. I know, I know, it's stating the obvious but moving to Michigan BY MYSELF not knowing ANYONE really made me realize this. We really are on our own. The other day my grandma asked me how I was getting by...how I was paying my bills (credit card bills, monthly car payments, insurance, rent, groceries...the list goes on and on) without any sort of income. My response? Shrugging, and simply saying "I...don't...know."

Fact is, you learn to get by. I don't go out. I prepare all my food at home. I don't go shopping. I rummage through weekly sales papers for the local grocery store and make a list before shopping. I fight for the best deals, even when they're not offered. I make sure I don't get ripped off...ever. I refuse to leave the house until I've figured out the shortest possible route without wasting an ounce of gas. And I'll admit, it is a lot of work, but it is worth every, single, penny.

You're probably wondering, what keeps me going? I may not be wearing high-end fashion masterpieces. I may not be hitting the bars/clubs every weekend, nor eating out to nice restaurants with awesome food, but I am still doing me and making it. That, alone, is what keeps me going.

Only one month into this dietetic internship and I've already met a handful of people and unnoticably learned a little something from each and every one of them. Because the truth is -- in this little world of ours, "It's who you know." Why do you think I'm working to network like crazy (in person, NOT via Facebook/MySpace/Friendster/Twitter, etc...not that there's anything wrong with that, I just chose not to)? People don't realize how crucial networking is to "making it." And I'm not talking about pretentiously walking around and passing around calling cards without giving anyone a second of your time. I'm talking about meeting people, and really getting to know them, and letting them get to know you. After all, on top of "who you know"... "it's what you love." I chose the world of nutrition because I have genuinely fallen head-over-heels in love with it. And at this point, I would do anything for it...including suppressing my "shy side" (that's right, you hear it first).

Dana Hagenbuch writes more about networking in her article, "It's Who You Know: Networking for Nonprofit Job Seekers". According to her, in the nonprofit world, 60% of open positions are filled through referrals and networking. That's more than half of...anything!

Her rule is, "MAKE YOURSELF AS VISIBLE AS POSSIBLE. Go to every social or professional gathering you can, such as conferences, career fairs, alumni activities, professional association meetings, and fundraisers. Participate in volunteer opportunities at organizations that interest you. You never know when a hiring manager will be volunteering next to you."

I couldn't agree with her more. So climb every mountain, ask questions, wear your career heart on your sleeve...and take the world by storm (or something to that effect).

Images from: sayleadershipcoaching.com and thewisdomjournal.com

Africa, Oh Africa

2009-02-02T19:16:00.000-08:00

Today, for whatever reason, had 'AFRICA' written all over it. Don't ask me why, I'm just a witness. All I know is that it did, and I can't seem to stop thinking about it.

Africa #1.
I met a fellow intern today who started the program back in September 2008 and finishes in March. Our rotations overlapped and I had no idea it did until I met her. Surprise! We got to talking about what we wanted to do with our lives after the internship. Neither of us know EXACTLY, but what we DO know is that we both want to travel overseas and work with the malnourished, the underdeveloped areas, the ones who could really use our help. Neither of us realized that there were other people just like us out there, right around the corner. I told her I've been wanting to go to Africa for some time now, but have been held back mainly by my mother who thinks I will go there and catch some kind of disease (which is possible, I'll admit, but there are precautions I can and would take!) She told me she had a few friends there who can help me out. YES!

Africa #2.
She then tells me she lived in South Africa for three years.

Africa #3.
A few minutes after this conversation, I decided to walk over to the medical library to work on a few projects. I sign unto my 'gchat' and BAM! A friend puts up an away message that read: "Soooo gooood http://africarally.theadventurists.com/index.php?mode=route."

(looks up at the sky and screams) "WHAT DO YOU WANT FROM ME?!"

I'm thinking it's a sign. A sign to dream BIG and hold unto that dream, very tightly, until it comes true. And even when people try to tell you to let go of that dream...don't. Even if it's your own mother...make her understand! Or have her call me...I'll see what I can do.

Image above from africarally.theadventurists.com

The Return of the "Global Gag Rule" - Obama ed.

2009-01-29T12:11:00.000-08:00

It's that time of our lives again, when our presidents change along with the world we live in. I had a chance to go through last weekend's issue of The Wall Street Journal during my lunch break today, and this article in particular snatched my attention:

Obama Lifts "Gag Rule" on Family-Planning Groups

Now, what exactly is the "Gag Rule"? I asked myself the same question. Better known as the Global Gag Rule, Mexico City Policy, or the Mexico City Gag Rule, it is "an intermittent United States government policy that required all non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that receive federal funding to refrain from performing or promoting abortion services in other countries" (Wikipedia.org). Politically speaking, Republican administrations adopt it while Democratic administrations rescind it.

President Obama altered the policy by lifting restrictions on international organizations that accept funding from the U.S. Agency for International Development. "In 2007, the agency spent $450 million on family planning and reproductive-health programs in more than 65 countries, such as making contraception more widely available" (Wall Street Journal). Obama did not increase the amount of money spent on family planning, but rather, made it more available by lifting restrictions and hoping to end "this stale and fruitless debate" (Wall Street Journal). Women health advocates, who were restricted from advocating, counseling, referring or offering abortion were pleased because this change will allow them to provide such services. On the other hand, Douglas Johnson, legislative director for the National Right to Life Committee, feels that: "He is effectively guaranteeing more abortions by funding groups that promote abortion as a method of population control" (Wall Street Journal).

When I worked for the WIC Program, there were innumerable times when I would provide services for pregnant teenagers and thought: "I wonder if she had access to some kind of birth control." Most of the time, they didn't. I am a firm believer that PREVENTION is key for a lot of things. But I also feel that if you get yourself into trouble, it is your responsibility to take care of it, no matter the consequences. But then again I don't know, I'm not there.

What do YOU think of this policy change?

Image from The Wall Street Journal

Speak and Feed, AMERICA!

2009-01-25T18:19:00.000-08:00

Dear ______,
Governor Rod R. Blagojevich
Lt. Governor Patrick 'Pat' Quinn
Representative Lou Lang
Representative Jan D. Schakowsky
Senator Roland Burris
President Barack Obama
Senator Ira I. Silverstein

As you enter a new legislative year filled with many challenges and opportunities, I urge you to support vital hunger relief programs that serve individuals, families, children, and seniors in need. There has been significant progress toward ending hunger across the nation and in Illinois, yet, there is still much work to be done and many opportunities remain for us to ensure that no one in our community goes hungry.

With the economy facing significant challenges and the cost of food and other basic necessities on the rise, more and more families are struggling to put food on the table. The number of men, women, and children turning to food pantries has increased dramatically in the past year. Working for the WIC Program for a little over a year from 2007-2008, I have personally noticed the gradual increase of the number of clients we provided nutrition services to daily. And to be frank, the majority of them needed more help than I was able to provide. On top of WIC services, I've noticed a number of them received food stamps and jumped at every opportunity to receive donated food. I am very hopeful for the changes that will be made and am very much looking forward to the future ahead of us.

As you make important policy and budget decisions this year, please consider the impact that a weak economy and high food prices is having on families and individuals in our community. In order to meet the rising need for food assistance, we must focus on improving and expanding vital nutrition programs that so many in our community need.

As someone that individuals and families turn to for help, you have a significant role to play in the fight against hunger and I urge you to do your part in the coming year. Thank you for your time and consideration and thank you in advance for your support of hunger relief programs that serve those in need. I look forward to hearing about your work in the fight against hunger in the coming year.

Sincerely,
Monica

Let your voice be heard, click here.

Images from the Chicago Food Depository (http://www.chicagosfoodbank.org/)

Me? Leaving? No...

2008-12-06T13:02:00.000-08:00

It's...officially getting really scary.

The fact that I'm leaving, in a month, as of today. To a city where NOBODY but my fellow dietetic interns and Director, knows my name. To a state I know nothing about other than the fact that Eminem is from Detroit and they have really nice camping sites there that I've never been to. And you want to know what the funny part is? I'm in complete, utter, denial about the whole thing. Me? Leaving? No...

Roommate? Check. Apartment applications? Sent. Reality?...reality?!...REALITY?!

As of January 13, I will be starting orientation. On the 18th I start rotations. Everything is all set up. All I have to do is go there, and do what I have to do. I'm putting in my notice at work on Monday. I'm also doing whatever I have to do to take advantage of having benefits...making appointments to see my doctor, eye doctor, dentist, etc. I can't believe I'm leaving. No matter how many times I say I'm leaving. No matter how many times I tell people what I'm going to be up to. I don't believe it. I can't.

Maybe it's because, I've never lived anywhere out side of Illinois for more than three months. Maybe because I've dreamt about this happening for so long, I can't seem to grasp the fact that it's happening, it's going to happen. It's happening. I'm leaving...everything that I've ever known...

Me? Scared? No...

Don't Buy Gift Cards

2008-11-30T09:24:00.001-08:00

F Y I…
Clark Howard, the consumer reporter in the Atlanta area, suggests not giving gift cards at all this year. If the business goes under, the card will not be good and that will just be money down the drain.

Ann Taylor closing 117 stores nationwide. A company spokeswoman said the company hasn't revealed which stores will be shuttered. It will let the stores that will close this fiscal year know over the next month.

Eddie Bauer to close more stores. Eddie Bauer has already closed 27 shops in the first quarter and plans to close up to two more outlet stores by the end of the year.

Cache closing stores. Women's retailer Cache announced that it is closing 20 to 23 stores this year.

Lane Bryant, Fashion Bug, Catherine's closing 150 stores nationwide. The owner of retailers Lane Bryant, Fashion Bug , Catherine’s Plus Sizes will close about 150 underperforming stores this year. The company hasn't provided a list of specific store closures and can't say when it will offer that info, spokeswoman Brooke Perry said today.

Talbots, J. Jill closing stores. About a month ago, Talbots announced that it will be shuttering all 78 of its kids and men's stores. Now the company says it will close another 22 underperforming stores.. The 22 stores will be a mix of Talbot’s women's and J. Jill, another chain it owns. The closures will occur this fiscal year, according to a company press release.

Gap Inc. closing 85 stores. In addition to its namesake chain, Gap also owns Old Navy and Banana Republic. The company said the closures - all planned for fiscal 2008 - will be weighted toward the Gap brand.

Foot Locker to close 140 stores. In the company press release and during its conference call with analysts today, it did not specify where the future store closures--all planned in fiscal 2008--will be. The company could not be immediately reached for comment.

Wickes is going out of business. Wickes Furniture is going out of business and closing all of its stores, Wickes, a 37-year-old retailer that targets middle-income customers, filed for bankruptcy protection last month.

Goodbye Levitz / BOMBAY - closed already. The furniture retailer, which is going out of business. Levitz first announced it was going out of business and closing all 76 o fits stores in December. The retailer dates back to 1910 when Richard Levitz opened his first furniture store in Lebanon , PA. In the 1960s, the warehouse/showroom concept brought Levitz to the forefront of the furniture industry. The local Levitz closures will follow the shutdown of Bombay .

Zales, Piercing Pagoda closing stores. The owner of Zales and Piercing Pagoda previously said it plans to close 82nd stores by July 31. Today, it announced that it is closing another 23underperforming stores. The company said it's not providing a list of specific store closures. Of the 105 locations planned for closure, 50 are kiosks and 55 are stores.

Disney Store: Owner has the right to close 98 stores. The Walt Disney Company announced it acquired about 220 Disney Stores from subsidiaries of The Children's Place Retail Stores. The exact number of stores acquired will depend on negotiations with landlords. Those subsidiaries of Children's Place filed for bankruptcy protection in late March. Walt Disney in the news release said it has also obtained the right to close about 98 Disney Stores in the U.S. The press release didn't list those stores.

Home Depot store closings (E. Brunswick, Rt 18 just put up their closing sign), Atlanta . Nearly 7+ months after its chief executive said there were no plans to cut the number of its core retail stores, The Home Depot Inc.. announced Thursday that it is shuttering 15 of them amid a slumping U.S. economy and housing market. The move will affect 1,300 employees. It is the first time the world's largest home improvement store chain has ever closed a flagship store for performance reasons. Its shares rose almost 5 percent. The Atlanta-based company said the underperforming U.S. stores being closed represent less than 1 percent of its existing stores. They will be shuttered within the next two months.

CompUSA (CLOSED) clarifies details on store closings. Any extended warranties purchased for products through CompUSA will be honored by a third-party provider, Assurant Solutions. Gift cards, rain checks, and rebates purchased prior to December 12 can be redeemed at any time during the final sale. For those who have a gadget currently in for service with CompUSA, the repair will be completed and the gadget will be returned to owners.

Macy's - 9 stores

Movie Gallery - 160 stores as part of reorganization plan to exit bankruptcy. The video rental company plans to close 400 of 3,500 Movie Gallery
Hollywood Video stores in addition to the 520 locations the video rental chain closed last fall.

Pacific Sunwear - 153 Demo stores

Pep Boys - 33 stores

Sprint Nextel - 125 retail locations. New Sprint Nextel CEO Dan Hesse appears to have inherited a company bleeding subscribers by the thousands, and will now officially be dropping the ax on 4,000 employees and 125 retail locations. Amid the loss of 639,000 postpaid customers in the fourth quarter, Sprint will be cutting a total of 6.7% of its work force (following the 5,000 layoffs last year) and 8% of company-owned brick-and-mortar stores, while remaining mute on other rumors that it will consolidate its headquarters in Kansas. Sprint Nextel shares are down $2.89, or nearly 25%, at the time of this writing.

J. C. Penney, Lowe's and Office Depot are all scaling back...

Ethan Allen Interiors: The company announced plans to close 12 of 300+ stores in an effort to cut costs.

Wilsons the Leather Experts - 158 stores

Pacific Sunwear will close its 154 Demo stores after a review of strategic alternatives for the urban-apparel brand. Seventy-four underperforming Demo stores closed last May.

Sharper Image: The company recently filed for bankruptcy protection and announced that 90 of its 184 stores are closing. The retailer will still operate 94 stores to pay off debts, but 90 of these stores have performed poorly and also may close.

Bombay Company: (Freehold Mall store closed )The company unveiled plans to close all 384 U.S.-based Bombay Company stores. The company's online storefront has discontinued operations.

KB Toys posted a list of 356 stores that it is closing around the United States as part of its bankruptcy reorganization. To see the list of store closings, go to the KB Toys Information web site, and click on Press Information.

Dillard's to close more stores. Dillard's, Inc. said it will continue to focus on closing underperforming stores, reducing expenses and improving its merchandise in 2008. At the company's annual shareholder meeting, CEO William Dillard II said the company will close another six underperforming stores this year.

Circuit City announced they will be closing over 150 stores starting January
1st 2009........

Starbucks & (Red)

2008-11-30T07:50:00.000-08:00

I "drove-through" Starbucks a few hours ago. Drink of choice? Tall, non-fat, Caramel Macchiato, please. My all-time favorite that I haven't gotten in awhile. I paid $3.48...also better known as "money I shouldn't be spending in the first place." However, tonight was different. I didn't mind spending $3.48 for a cup of coffee because 1. I needed to get out of the house and 2. I really wanted it. But here's the good news, Starbucks is partnering up with (RED) this holiday season! For every (Starbucks) Exclusive Drink you buy, five cents will be donated to help save lives in Africa! Let's just say, that made me feel good about my Caramel Macchiato.

$3.43 to Starbucks, $0.05 to saving lives in Africa.

Manhattan alone has 171 Starbucks. 171 x $0.05 x the number of New Yorkers who buy coffee as exemplified by comedian/filmaker Mark Malkoff in his short film that can be found at www.171starbucks.com ... you do the math.

As my Nutrition professor, Dr. Amy Ozier, would say, "Small changes make BIG differences."

Photo by adweek.com

Cards That Give

2008-11-29T13:36:00.000-08:00

It's that time of the year again. When we remind each other how much we love and care for each other because it's the holidays, and that's what people do. But instead of sending a holiday greeting via text/email or greeting the entire Facebook world by changing your status...this time, just this once, why not do something different?

Americans purchase nearly 7 billion greeting cards each year, generating nearly $7.5 billion in retail sales. If it were easy for individuals and businesses to buy their greeting cards from non-profit organizations, card sales could generate millions of dollars for worthy causes. -CardsThatGive.org

It's a million dollar idea, really. Charity greeting cards. We greet and donate to our charity-of-choice...at the saaammmeee tiiimmeee. CardsThatGive.org is your main source for charity greeting cards this year. Here are a few of my faves!

Solstice Scene
The Humane Society of the United States

Holiday Scene
Project Bread

Peaceful Village
Roswell Park Cancer Institute

I Will Not Kill What I Love

2008-11-17T06:49:00.000-08:00

I needed to do this. I had to make a turn. I've been going down this paved road towards who-knows-where for some time now and needed a change of scenery, change of direction, change of perspective. About a year ago, I remember talking to a friend about our want and need to get out of this place. To move away, anywhere but here. We agreed on "Phoenix"...it was such a distant thought then...one of those things we plan to do, forget we ever planned it, and go on with our lives.

“Oscar Wilde said: ‘Each man kills the thing he loves.’ And it’s true. The mere possibility of getting what we want fills the soul of the ordinary person with guilt. We look around at all those who have failed to get what they want and feel that we do not deserve to get what we want either. We forget about the obstacles we overcame, all the suffering we endured, all the things we had to give up in order to get this far. I have known a lot of people who, when their personal calling was within their grasp, went on to commit a series of stupid mistakes and never reached their goal—when it was only a step away."
Source: Paulo Coelho, (2002). The Alchemist.

I got in. As of January 2009, I will be starting my dietetic internship at Central Michigan University. I will be leaving everything that I know, moving to my "Phoenix", and will know absolutely no one. A new chapter, if you will, chasing my dreams. I didn't want to kill what I love. I didn't want to let it go. I refused to forget about it. And I fought for it until I got it.

The question is, why aren't I as ecstatic about it as I thought I'd be? Just the idea, of wanting something so bad, and then getting it? That scares me. Because it proves that anything really is possible.

And so, ladies and gentlemen, I would like to present to you, my new home as of January 2009:

Wightman Hall

Plateaus, Sweaty Hands and Irregular Heartbeats

2008-11-11T17:28:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, I spoke of hitting rock bottom. Today, I tell you a little bit about the town of plateaus. You're going to have to excuse my back-to-back-to-back entries about me, myself, and I and all things affecting me. Sometimes, things just are, and they freakin' hurt...the question to focus on is: What exactly are you going to do about it? That, my friend, is where you come in. That's the part where all I ask, is for you to listen.

I find out about whether or not I got into a dietetic internship program and/or grad school in less than a week. 12:01 a.m. Monday, November 17, 2008 to be exact. The day when it all changes. The day I've been waiting for the past 7.5 weeks (9 months if you count the first time I applied and didn't get in, 1.5 years if you start counting from my graduation date when I decided I needed to apply). Without further exaggeration, it's been a long time coming. Why can't I seem to wait six more days? Because it's all I think about every minute of every day. Because everything that I accomplish in a day exemplify my feeble attempts trying not to think about it, or plotting out my great escape if (knock on wood) the unthinkable happens and...I don't get in.

What I have been trying to focus on is...this is the best part. The anticipation, the apprehension, the not knowing. It's like the moment before the first kiss, the look on a groom's face the second his wife-to-be is in his sight, the sweat that makes hands sticky right before a first date, the silence that takes over a table of great conversationalists when the waiter comes out with their food. It's like that, it feels like that. Because once it happens, the excitement is all gone, and the circle of this seemingly routine life starts all over again. This is the best part. I, Monica, am fully capable of waiting six more days. Because once I know...well, then I'll just know. And what kind of excitement is there when you just know?

My life, is currently a town of plateaus because...I don't know what's ahead of me, I don't know what to do from here on out. This year has been emotionally draining and never have I ever felt so lost...yet found (contradicting, I know). They say that life is what you make it, that you'll get what you want as long as you keep fighting for it. But what happens when you lose grasp of that thing you want, subsequently destroying every ounce of hope that you've been holding onto for as long as you can remember? You try again...and again...and again...(notice the ellipsis).

Ever tried.
Ever failed.
No matter.
Try again.
Fail again.
Fail better.
-Samuel Beckett

And so, ladies and gentlemen, I present to you a non-related-non-profit entry that I hope will be of benefit to you. Be it what it may.

Image by science.nationalgeographic.com

YouTube Does Good

2008-11-02T17:53:00.001-08:00

YouTube...we all go on it. It's a secret obsession, an addiction. Something we probably shouldn't be bragging about. It's become a part of our life, our vocabulary.

"I spent my entire weekend 'YouTubing' the most random videos." Fact.

What exactly did I "YouTube"? I'll admit that I watched a bunch of Beyonce videos, and looked into Rihanna and Chris Brown. What can I say? I was bored. But don't be fooled, there's more to YouTube than movie stars and music videos. Believe it or not, YouTube actually has a nonprofit program. Check it out:

"Does your organization have a compelling story to tell? Do you want to connect with your supporters, volunteers, and donors but don't have the funds to launch expensive outreach campaigns?

YouTube can help.

Video is a powerful way to show your organization's impact and needs, and with a designated "Nonprofit" channel on YouTube, you can deliver your message to the world's largest online video community."

You know YouTube is making a difference when...

WELCOME to Middle of Nowhere

2008-10-22T19:57:00.000-07:00

A wise woman from a 1954 movie entitled "Sabrina" once said: "I found myself in Paris." I, on the other hand, found myself by getting really, really lost. I've never been much of a..."know-where-I-am" or "know-where-I'm-going" type of person anyway, so it's no surprise. But I'm sure a lot of you can relate. It's like junior year of high school, when you had no idea what the heck you were going to do with your life. It's like today, right now, way after high school, either in or out of college, exactly where you left off. No sense of direction. No map telling you where to go. No one forcing you to go anywhere. And so you just stand there, literally in the middle of nowhere, waiting for some kind of sign...anyone?...ANYONE?!

A funny thing happened on my way home from work today. I usually give my boss a ride to the train station, and we usually have pretty interesting conversations during the ride. Every day since I applied for dietetic internships last September, she's been asking me if I've heard anything. Today she confessed that she has a gut feeling that I'm getting in, and that I should plan accordingly. Plan is, once I find out (which is in less than a month), I'm putting in my 2-week notice so I can "relax" before going back into full-time school mode come January. It's funny how that glimmer of hope, coming from my boss, gave me a sense of direction. Made me believe in myself again and know that I can conquer the world...well, at least my own.

The minute I get home, I get a call from one of my old roommates telling me to apply for jobs out-of-state with her "just in case we don't get in." I definitely didn't say "no."

All I'm saying is that standing still isn't half bad. That something WILL happen to you that WILL change your life and give you that sense of direction you've been waiting for. You just have to be patient, and hope for the best, even if you get hit by something unexpected.

"Getting Busy" Does Wonders

2008-10-17T15:00:00.000-07:00

A lot has happened since we last spoke.

Yesterday I graduated as a Breastfeeding Support Counselor from the CEDA (Community and Economic Development Association of Cook County, Inc.) Training Program. I can't even begin to explain to you the look on my grandma's face when I showed her my diploma. Still in bed, she offers me her hand, shakes it enthusiastically, while looking at me straight in the eyes and repeatedly saying: "Congratulations" with a huge smile on her face. I can't even begin to explain to you how that made me feel. How such a small gesture instantly made my heart smile. How I felt someone else patting me on the back, for all my hard work. It really made me feel good about what I've accomplished.

CEDA BSC Class of October 2008 - Photo by: M. Dominguez

On top of working full-time, training to become a Breastfeeding Support Counselor, I have also been taking a grad course at Benedictine University for their online MPH (Master of Public Health) program. Without question, it's been kicking me in the shins. Every chance I got at work and at home, I would either be studying for a quiz, writing a paper, or doing massive amounts of reading. Yesterday also marked the last day of that 8-week course. Truth be told, I don't know how I did it. It's some sort of a disease, I'm telling you, to want to stay this busy...all the time.

Maybe because it's all I know...to "do me" that is. Maybe it's because it's all I've ever done, or rather, all I've been fighting to do. I've lost count of how many times I've let other people influence the decisions I've made, and for the first time in my life, I really feel like I'm doing what I want to do. And that right there?...is a huge accomplishment. Gigantic.

So, in continuation to last week's blog... like I said, GETTING BUSY really does wonders after hitting rock bottom. ;)

People and/or Little Things that have inspired me this week (because I'm sure other people can relate):

watching Jordan Sparks' "One Step at a Time" music video
listening to Danity Kane both to and from work
conference calls with my highly-motivated health professional classmates
support from friends/family/coworkers at my BSC Graduation

"It's the little things...and the joy they bring." -india.arie

Rock Bottom #10385934

2008-10-11T23:56:00.000-07:00

Every now and then, we merge unto a bumpy road...run into a brick wall. And as much as we try to avoid it, it's inevitable. You can't eat, you can't sleep, you can't seem to get your mind off of certain things. We've all been here, it happens to the best of us. The question is, after you have hit rock bottom (or at least, what feels like it), how do you get back up?

Answer? I have none. In fact, I'm still trying to figure it all out myself. But I do know one thing: GET BUSY. Sure you can write about what you feel, and lock yourself up in your room for days, but it's only after you've taken a hold of the present, will you get over your past. We all know dwelling in the past doesn't ever do you any good, and neither does beating yourself up over something that you have absolutely no control over.

Take the summer of 2004, for example. The summer after my grandfather passed away from pancreatic cancer. Maybe I was in denial, maybe I really didn't know how else to handle it. I worked, full-time, and booked every free day with things I've always wanted to do. I surrounded myself around positive people. My friend even commented saying that I was handling it all really well. Little did he know, I was crying inside, and I still am. But we've got to take control of our lives, it's the only way.

And now, ladies and gentlemen, I present to you, Rock Bottom #10385934, Monica Edition. I don't even have to tell you exactly what happened, because it's all relative, and we've all been here. But I will tell you that, there is hope. And if I can say that right here, right now, it must be out there.

First step? Visit chicagononprofit.org. Find something to invest some of my time in. Find an opportunity to inspire others. Find myself, all over again.

I've never been so excited in my life.