Google-isms gone wild

Who'da thunk the proliferation of search engines would generate, simultaneously, so much convenience, confusion and contention? First off, one must choose which engine to use. Then one must learn the appropriate lexicon.

Which search engine to use?

Gotta query? Where, oh where, should one go for answers? There are many types and quantities of search engines, and their relative rankings change frequently. There are even search engines that search other search engines, such as Dogpile (tagline: "All the best search engines piled into one"),which fetches simultaneously from four best-in-breed sites: Google, Yahoo! SEARCH, MSN search (now known as LIVE search) and Ask.

Google Seach is currently the big kahuna of search engines by popularity of use. That's not surprising, since Google surpasses Yahoo! SEARCH - albeit by a hair - in the Search Engine Relevancy Challenge, which measures what many think really matters.

Search engine lexicon: it's another language. And as George Bush's recent Google gaffe demonstrated, learning it ain't necessarily easy.

However, given that Google is the gargantuan gorilla of search engines, it's not surprising that Google-isms have gone wild. Googleblogger Kevin Burton explains in a post entitled: 'Google'd [sic] him on Yahoo!': "This is just insane."

Usage: 'Google' as verb referring to searching for information via any conduit other than Google.

Example: "I googled him on Yahoo and he seems pretty interesting."

Our lawyers say: Bad. Very, very bad. You can only "Google" on the Google search engine. If you absolutely must use one of our competitors, please feel free to "search" on Yahoo or any other search engine.

Here's my two cents: "Quitcherbitchin!" Yeah, yeah, I know Google must prevent dilution of its brand identity and avoid trademark infringements. But let's be real. With the rapid proliferation of everyday Internet users, and by extension, online searches, "verb-alizing," of one of the major search engine's names was bound to happen. That "the Google" [sic], rather than a competitor, has become the household term for online search[ing?], from the White House to Flavor Flav's crib, attests to the big galoot's impressive market penetration.

I got shot on Wall Street

I got shot on Wall Street yesterday.

So did six other women, including telecommunications executive-cum-fashion designer Helene Kidary. The total body count included four women with fit, sample-size figures and a fondness for fashion, and three professional models (two of whom appeared with Meryl Streep in The Devil Wears Prada). One of the models, Andrea Sooch, conspired with Helene to set us all up.

The shooting started at high noon. By sunset, evidence of what went down draped the scene and everyone involved had scattered like tumbleweeds in the wind.

If this is the first you've heard, it won't be the last.

The details will be difficult to miss. Photos will soon be published and I'll be blogging and broadcasting inside scoop for months. Be on the lookout for interviews with Helene and some of the models in time for Fashion Week and Coterie in February 2007.

What a stylish shooting it was!

Of course, I'm referring to a commercial photography shoot for Helene Kidary's signature fshion line. The demographically diverse models ranged in age from late 20's to late 50's. The glam group of women [each with "poise & power who could have a 6 digit income running her own company"] had gathered to shoot catalogue/lifestyle photos featuring corporate, cocktail and leisure wear.

Ross Tucker featured Helene Kidary's designs in Women's Wear Daily - Denim Dish: From 'Corporate to Cocktail,' (October 12, 2006):

In October 2005, Kidary starting moving forward with her line, focusing on marrying high-end designer materials with denim and targeting professional women between the ages of 35 and 65.

Lesley Scott published, in Fashiontribes Daily - Denim Becomes a Fashion Do at Work, portions of the WWD interview that more sharply pinpointed Kidary's target market:

"Corporate wear, that's my primary consumer," explains Kidary, who is keeping her telecomms day job. "I'm looking to women who travel, who have to go from corporate to cocktail at the end of the day. It's catering to women who are escalating through the ranks of business and society."

Sounds like me and a few thousand other women I know.

Who dunnit?

The shooter was photographer Paul Newland. Check out his sheet at Solvara.com. I told his wife, who rode shotgun: the Newlands must have some fantastic family photos.

Learn more in future posts, photos and radio programs about such topics as:

• Facing facts: Am I fit for fashion or just a face for radio?
• Stripping bare: My true impressions of Kidary's fashions.
• Fashionably late and yet right on time: An interview with designer Helene Kidary.
• Not just pretty faces: Glimpses behind the glamorous facades of a fistful of fashion models and fashionistas.

Photos courtesy of Helene Kidary, CEO/Design Director, HELENE KIDARY NEW YORK CITY.###

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES @ United Nations Association of the U.S.A., Westchester Chapter

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES @ United Nations Association of the U.S.A., Westchester Chapter is part of a series entitled: "Blogging 24+ ways to make a difference on Make A Difference Day and year-round." The local and international volunteer opportunities included in this series were compiled by:

Shannon Cobb, Deputy Director, The Volunteer Center of United Way
280 N. Central Avenue, Hartsdale, NY 10530, USA
TEL (01) 914-227-9313 / FAX (01) 914-948-3032
www.volunteer-center.org/

Agency Information:

• Agency Name: United Nations Association of the U.S.A., Westchester Chapter
• Agency Address: 166 Edgars Lane, Hastings On Hudson, NY 10706 USA
• Mission: UNA-USA is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that supports the work of the United Nations and encourages active civic participation in important social and economic issues facing the world today. The nation's largest grassroots foreign policy organization, UNA-USA offers Americans the opportunity to connect with issues confronted by the UN, from global health and human rights to the spread of democracy, development and international justice. We encourage strong U.S. leadership in the UN.

Contact Information:

• Contact Name: Jeanne Betsock Stillman
• Contact Title: Board member and secretary
• Contact Email: jbs AT stratdev DOT com
• Contact Phone: (01) 914-478-3450
• Web Site: www.stratdev.com/UNA-USA/

Job(s) Listed By Above Agency:

1) Job Title: Website developer

• Job Location: Hastings On Hudson
• Job Description: A volunteer is needed to revise the website of a nonpartisan organization that supports the work of the United Nations and encourages active civic participation in the most important social and economic issues facing the world today. It is a fairly extensive website and is already up and running, but we have other information that could be added to it. We feel the website could also be made more attractive and user friendly. Hours are flexible.
• Minimum Age for Volunteer: 18
• Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 18
• Other Qualifications: Train administrator to maintain/update site.
• Training Provided: None, although the FrontPage 2002 manual is available. Our web host (rcn.com / erols.com) does not support FP2002 although it does support FP2002.
• Time Range of Job: 1 week to 4 months
• Days Available: All Days
• Times Available: All

2) Job Title: Coordinator, Community Access TV Project

• Job Location: Hastings On Hudson
• Job Description: Community Access TV Project featuring already-produced videos about the United Nations, to start in September to reach all of Westchester; enough material for 26 ½-hour programs.
• Volunteer need: Plan the logistics and communications for project with the various community access TV networks, including provision of videos to each TV network involved. On an ongoing basis, ensure the videoing of our public programs, and appropriate editing of tapes. Help with fundraising for the project.
• Minimum Age for Volunteer: 18
• Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 0
• Other Qualifications: Excellent organizational skills; familiarity with video formats and video production desirable.
• Training Provided: Excellent orientation to the mission of UNA-USA; preliminary research has been done on videos, availability, permissions, and Community Access TV in Westchester.
• Time Range of Job: Ongoing
• Days Available: All Days, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
• Times Available: All

3) Job Title: Coordinator, Council of Organizations

• Job Location: Hastings On Hudson
• Job Description: Council of Organizations -- Identify local chapters of organizations that belong to the UNA-USA National Council of Organizations, invite them to join a Westchester Council. A summer intern is developing the initial list. Aim is to extend the outreach of our chapter through the programs and mailings of such groups. As it develops, we would ask the Council to name a representative to our chapter Board. We currently have loose arrangements in co-sponsorship of programs with several organizations.
• Volunteer need: Assist in outreach to the various organizations -- we expect this will be done over a period of time, as we think that personal contact followed by a mailing will be more effective than a directly mailing alone. Assist in organizing a first meeting or meetings of the Council, assisting in its development, mission, etc. Materials are available on our national website in relation to this.
• Minimum Age for Volunteer: 18
• Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 0
• Other Qualifications: Good public relations skills in outreach with representatives of potential Council of Organizations.
• Training Provided: Excellent orientation to UNA-USA's program; materials, website resources, and data file available.
• Time Range of Job: Ongoing
• Days Available: All Days Times Available: All

4) Job Title: Coordinator, Business involvement in UNA-USA

• Job Location: Hastings On Hudson
• Job Description: Business involvement in UNA-USA -- Many globally-oriented businesses have headquarters in New York. Rather few of these are currently members of the UNA-USA National Business Council for the United Nations. We want to develop a systematic approach to communicating with businesses about the work of our local chapter, and the important role we play in educating young people about global issues.
• Volunteer need: Conceptualize how to approach businesses; develop materials for doing this; think through role of business and the UN and how working together can be mutually beneficial at the Westchester level, for example, through educating young people and through encouraging employee membership in UNA-USA of employees.
• Minimum Age for Volunteer: 18
• Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 0
• Other Qualifications: Excellent communications skills; knowledge of the business community in Westchester (or strong interest in learning); interest in public-private alliances and international issues
• Training Provided: Excellent orientation; written materials available; website materials available
• Time Range of Job: Ongoing
• Days Available: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
• Times Available: All

What difference do YOU make? Share your comments and experiences at Lisa Tolliver On Air and Online and at Blogcritics Writer: Lisa Tolliver.###

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES @ Ejayes Charities

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES @ Ejayes Charities is part of a series entitled: "Blogging 24+ ways to make a difference on Make A Difference Day and year-round." The local and international volunteer opportunities included in this series were compiled by:

Shannon Cobb, Deputy Director, The Volunteer Center of United Way
280 N. Central Avenue, Hartsdale, NY 10530, USA
TEL (01) 914-227-9313 / FAX (01) 914-948-3032
www.volunteer-center.org/

Agency Information:

• Agency Name: Ejayes Charities
• Agency Address: 7 The Circle, New Rochelle, NY 10801 usa
• Mission: Ejayes Charities is a medical mission with international outreach and educational empowerment. Our current focus is Nigeria.

Contact Information:

• Contact Name: Shirley Carter
• Contact Title: Board Member
• Contact Email: sjczicw AT hotmail DOT com
• Contact Phone: (01) 914-699-0136
• Web Site: www.ejayescharities.org

Job(s) Listed By Above Agency:

1) Job Title: Charity Office Assistant

• Job Location: New Rochelle
• Job Description: We are a volunteer organization looking for a coordinator to enhance our program by assisting with calls and helping to share information regarding our mission: working to improve the quality of life in developing countries, especially in Africa. It aims at joining the global campaign against AIDS and brings to light the socio-economic constraints in combating the epidemic. Since the year 2000 we have made yearly trips to distribute medicine and provide free clinics to the poor communities. We need volunteers to help us at our New Rochelle office to spread word of our works.
• Minimum Age for Volunteer: 20
• Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 20
• Other Qualifications:
• Training Provided:
• Time Range of Job: Ongoing
• Days Available: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
• Times Available: Morning, Afternoon

What difference do YOU make? Share your comments and experiences at Lisa Tolliver On Air and Online and at Blogcritics Writer: Lisa Tolliver.###

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ WESTCOP-The Children's Center for Learning - Head Start

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ WESTCOP-The Children's Center for Learning - Head Start is part of a series entitled: "Blogging 24+ ways to make a difference on Make A Difference Day and year-round." The local and international volunteer opportunities included in this series were compiled by:

Shannon Cobb, Deputy Director, The Volunteer Center of United W ay
280 N. Central Avenue, Hartsdale, NY 10530, USA
TEL (01) 914-227-9313 / FAX (01) 914-948-3032
www.volunteer-center.org/

Agency Information:

• Agency Name: WESTCOP-The Children's Center for Learning - Head Start
• Agency Address: 95 Lincoln Avenue, 2nd Floor, New Rochelle, NY 10801 USA
• Mission: Our mission is to provide a comprehensive Head Start experience to children 2 years and 9 months to 5 years old who reside with their families in homeless shelters, a well as families who meet the low income eligibility guidelines for Head Start and The Department of Social Services. Also offered are services for children with special needs. Our Center is open Monday through Friday from 9am until 3:30pm. On site mental health services are provided by Andrus Center for Preventive Psychiatry.

Contact Information:

• Contact Name: Anitta Haywood
• Contact Title: Director
• Contact Email: ahaywood AT westcop DOT org
• Contact Phone: (01) 914-632-0180

Job(s) Listed By Above Agency:

1) Job Title: Headstart Assistant

• Job Location: New Rochelle
• Job Description: A headstart preschool children center seeks volunteers to work one-to-one with children with developmental issues. Volunteers must be patient and willing to work with youth from different skill levels.
• Minimum Age for Volunteer: 18
• Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 18
• Other Qualifications:
• Training Provided:
• Time Range of Job: Ongoing
• Days Available: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
• Times Available: Morning, Afternoon

What difference do YOU make? Share your comments and experiences at Lisa Tolliver On Air and Online and at Blogcritics Writer: Lisa Tolliver.###

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ FSW Americorps Program

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ FSW Americorps Program is part of a series entitled: "Blogging 24+ ways to make a difference on Make A Difference Day and year-round." The local and international volunteer opportunities included in this series were compiled by:

Shannon Cobb, Deputy Director, The Volunteer Center of United W ay
280 N. Central Avenue, Hartsdale, NY 10530, USA
TEL (01) 914-227-9313 / FAX (01) 914-948-3032
www.volunteer-center.org/

Agency Information:

• Agency Name: FSW Americorps Program
• Agency Address: 1 Gateway Plaza, Port Chester, NY 10573 USA
• Mission: provide a broad range of social and mental health services to strengthen and support families, children and individuals.

Contact Information:

• Contact Name: Irina Miagkova
• Contact Title: Americorps Program Director
• Contact Email: imiagkov AT fsw DOT org
• Contact Phone: (01) 914-937-2320
• Web Site: www.fsw.org

Job(s) Listed By Above Agency:

1) Job Title: Teacher's Aide

• Job Location: Mount Vernon
• Job Description: If you like working with kids and helping them learn, become a teacher's aide! You can work hands-on with kids in an elementary school alongside the Americorps education program. Volunteer Aides are needed during school hours -- perfect for students and retired seniors. Teachers aides help increase students performance in the classroom, decrease the student:teacher ratio, and provide a higher quality of education. Volunteers undergo mandated screening process.
• Minimum Age for Volunteer: 17
• Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 17
• Other Qualifications:
• Training Provided: Training is provided by school staff.
• Time Range of Job: 1 week to 4 months, 5 months to 1 year
• Days Available: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday
• Times Available: Morning, Afternoon

What difference do YOU make? Share your comments and experiences at Lisa Tolliver On Air and Online and at Blogcritics Writer: Lisa Tolliver.###

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ FSW - Juvenile Law Education Program (JLaw)

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ FSW - Juvenile Law Education Program (JLaw) is part of a series entitled: "Blogging 24+ ways to make a difference on Make A Difference Day and year-round." The local and international volunteer opportunities included in this series were compiled by:

Shannon Cobb, Deputy Director, The Volunteer Center of United W ay
280 N. Central Avenue, Hartsdale, NY 10530, USA
TEL (01) 914-227-9313 / FAX (01) 914-948-3032
www.volunteer-center.org/

Agency Information:

• Agency Name: FSW - Juvenile Law Education Program (JLaw)
• Agency Address: One Summit Ave., White Plains, NY 10606 USA
• Mission: To reduce juvenile delinquency and pre-delinquent behavior by educating middle school children about their rights and responsibilities under the law and the consequences which occur when laws are violated.

Contact Information:

• Contact Name: Amy Kellogg
• Contact Title: Executive Director
• Contact Email: jlaw AT fsw DOT org
• Contact Phone: (01) 914-872-5240
• Web Site: www.j-law.org

Job(s) Listed By Above Agency:

1) Job Title: Educator

Job Location: New Rochelle

Job Description: An agency whose main mission is to reduce juvenile deliquent behavior is seeking volunteers to conduct workshops designed to make middle school children aware of their rights and responsibilities under the law. This program involves a series of three 45 minute workshops conducted in the classroom during the school day. Scheduling is done by the Executive Director in conjuction with the school and the volunteer. Scheduling is flexible as is location. The agency operates in school districts throughout Westchester County.

Minimum Age for Volunteer: 21

Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 21

Other Qualifications: Must enjoy working with children 10-13 years of age. Need not be an attorney. Curriculum and materials supplied by agency.

Time Range of Job: Special/One Time Event, Ongoing

Days Available: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday

Times Available: Morning, Afternoon

What difference do YOU make? Share your comments and experiences at Lisa Tolliver On Air and Online and at Blogcritics Writer: Lisa Tolliver.###

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ Eastchester Senior Citizens Nutrition Center

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ Eastchester Senior Citizens Nutrition Center is part of a series entitled: "Blogging 24+ ways to make a difference on Make A Difference Day and year-round." The local and international volunteer opportunities included in this series were compiled by:

Shannon Cobb, Deputy Director, The Volunteer Center of United W ay
280 N. Central Avenue, Hartsdale, NY10530, USA
TEL (01) 914-227-9313 / FAX (01) 914-948-3032
www.volunteer-center.org/

Agency Information:

• Agency Name: Eastchester Senior Citizens Nutrition Center
• Agency Address: 666 White Plains Road, Eastchester, NY 10707 USA

Contact Information:

• Contact Name: Norah Rossi
• Contact Title: Director of Volunteers
• Contact Email: nrossi AT eastchester DOT org
• Contact Phone: (01) 914-337-0390

Job (s) Listed By Above Agency:

1) Job Title: Meal Delivery Volunteer

• Job Location: Eastchester
• Job Description: Volunteer about 1 to 1 1/2 hours on a weekday to deliver meals to the homebound elderly in the Eastchester, Bronxville and Tuckahoe area.
• Minimum Age for Volunteer: 18
• Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 18
• Time Range of Job: Ongoing
• Days Available: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
• Times Available: Morning, Afternoon

What difference do YOU make? Share your comments and experiences at Lisa Tolliver On Air and Online and at Blogcritics Writer: Lisa Tolliver.###

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ East Coast Assistance Dogs

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ East Coast Assistance Dogs is part of a series entitled: "Blogging 24+ ways to make a difference on Make A Difference Day and year-round." The local and international volunteer opportunities included in this series were compiled by:

Shannon Cobb, Deputy Director, The Volunteer Center of United W ay
280 N. Central Avenue, Hartsdale, NY10530, USA
TEL (01) 914-227-9313 / FAX (01) 914-948-3032
www.volunteer-center.org/

Agency Information:

• Agency Name: East Coast Assistance Dogs
• Agency Address: PO Box 251, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 USA
• Mission: ECAD's mission is to enable people with disabilities to gain greater independence through the use of specially trained dogs. Our method of achieving this involves working with at-risk youths in residential foster care, teaching them to train Service Dogs to act as the arms and legs of a person with limited physical strength, mobility, or balance.

Contact Information:

• Contact Name: Alex Hollo
• Contact Title: Volunteer Coordinator
• Contact Email: ahzoey AT msn DOT com
• Contact Phone: (01) 914-693-0600 x 1950
• Web Site: www.ecad1.org

Job(s) Listed By Above Agency:

1) Job Title: Weekend Dog Raiser

• Job Location: New Rochelle
• Job Description: Help our agency train dogs to assist the disabled. You can help by taking one of our dogs/puppies home for a weekend at a time, helping train them to be familiar with new people. This will help them transition, when it is time, to their assigned owner. All training for these weekend adopters will be provided. Dogs need to be picked up and dropped off at our Dobbs Ferry facility.
• Minimum Age for Volunteer: 18
• Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 0
• Other Qualifications:
• Training Provided: All tips, guidelines and training will be provided.
• Time Range of Job: 5 months to 1 year
• Days Available: Monday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
• Times Available: All

What difference do YOU make? Share your comments and experiences at Lisa Tolliver On Air and Online and at Blogcritics Writer: Lisa Tolliver.###

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ COMMUNITY SERVICES, Meals-on-Wheels

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ COMMUNITY SERVICES, Meals-on-Wheels is part of a series entitled: "Blogging 24+ ways to make a difference on Make A Difference Day and year-round." The local and international volunteer opportunities included in this series were compiled by:

Shannon Cobb, Deputy Director, The Volunteer Center of United W ay
280 N. Central Avenue, Hartsdale, NY10530, USA
TEL (01) 914-227-9313 / FAX (01) 914-948-3032
www.volunteer-center.org/

Agency Information:

• Agency Name: COMMUNITY SERVICES, Meals-on-Wheels
• Agency Address: 740 West Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, NY 10543 USA
• Mission:

Contact Information:

• Contact Name: Arleen Silverman
• Contact Title: Coordinator
• Contact Email: robertacsa AT verizon DOT net
• Contact Phone: (01) 914-381-7840
• Web Site: Town of Mamaroneck

Job(s) Listed By Above Agency:

1) Job Title: Meals-On-Wheels Volunteer

• Job Location: Larchmont
• Job Description: Volunteers are needed to drive their own vehicle to deliver a hot, nutritious meal to home-bound residents unable to prepare their own meals. Volunteers have a bi-weekly commitment, or as a substitute on an on-call basis.
• Minimum Age for Volunteer: 21
• Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 21
• Other Qualifications: CARRY TRAYS AND CLIMB STAIRS
• Training Provided: Training will be with an experienced volunteer to learn the route and become familar with procedures and meet the residents.
• Time Range of Job: Ongoing
• Days Available: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
• Times Available: Morning

What difference do YOU make? Share your comments and experiences at Lisa Tolliver On Air and Online and at Blogcritics Writer: Lisa Tolliver.###

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ Community Service Associates - Crisis Intervention Center

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ Community Service Associates - Crisis Intervention Center is part of a series entitled: "Blogging 24+ ways to make a difference on Make A Difference Day and year-round." The local and international volunteer opportunities included in this series were compiled by:

Shannon Cobb, Deputy Director, The Volunteer Center of United W ay
280 N. Central Avenue, Hartsdale, NY10530, USA
TEL (01) 914-227-9313 / FAX (01) 914-948-3032
www.volunteer-center.org/

Agency Information:

• Agency Name: Community Service Associates - Crisis Intervention Center
• Agency Address: 115 Sharpe Blvd South, Mount Vernon, NY 10550 USA
• Mission: Community Service Associates is a non-profit 501-C3 agency, which has been providing vital services to the Mount Vernon community since 1988 with programs that nourish not only the physical needs but also the social and psychological needs of the poor and disenfranchised.

Contact Information:

• Contact Name: Jared Apuzzo
• Contact Title: Community Service/Volunteer Coordinator
• Contact Email: robertacsa AT verizon DOT net
• Contact Phone: 914-668-1428
• Web Site: www.clusterinc.com

Job(s) Listed By Above Agency:

1) Job Title: Soup Kitchen Volunteer

• Job Location: Mount Vernon
• Job Description: Volunteers are needed to work in a soup kitchen for breakfast at 7am or for dinner between 4:30pm and 5:30pm. Individuals and groups can volunteer to assist or they can also provide and cook the entire meal. We feed between 50-100 people each day depending on the time of month. On special holiday meals we serve over 100 people. We only have three staff so volunteers are truly the heart of this organization. We are closed Saturday, Sunday and Monday.
• Minimum Age for Volunteer: 14
• Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 9
• Other Qualifications:
• Training Provided:
• Time Range of Job: Ongoing
• Days Available: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
• Times Available: All

What difference do YOU make? Share your comments and experiences at Lisa Tolliver On Air and Online and at Blogcritics Writer: Lisa Tolliver.###

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ CLUSTER, Inc.-Youth &Family Svcs./After-School Program

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ CLUSTER, Inc.-Youth &Family Svcs./After-School Program is part of a series entitled: "Blogging 24+ ways to make a difference on Make A Difference Day and year-round." The local and international volunteer opportunities included in this series were compiled by:

Shannon Cobb, Deputy Director, The Volunteer Center of United W ay
280 N. Central Avenue, Hartsdale, NY10530, USA
TEL (01) 914-227-9313 / FAX (01) 914-948-3032
www.volunteer-center.org/

Agency Information:

• Agency Name: CLUSTER, Inc.-Youth &Family Svcs./After-School Program
• Agency Address: 20 South Broadway, Room 501, Yonkers, NY 10702 USA
• Mission: The mission of "Congregations Linked in Urban Strategy to Effect Renewal" (CLUSTER) is to provide services and programs that will assist individuals and families in Yonkers, and other parts of Westechester County, to build a better future for themselves and their communities.

Contact Information:

• Contact Name: Lutonya Russell-Humes
• Contact Title: Program Coordinator
• Contact Email: LHumes AT clusterinc DOT org
• Contact Phone: 914-963-6440 x. 234
• Web Site: www.clusterinc.com

1). Job Title: Yoga instructor
Job Location: Yonkers
Job Description: Our program is in need of a volunteer yoga instructor who will work with a small group of young children in the after-school hours. We would like the children to learn the basics of yoga: to focus on stretching and breathing techniques to center and calm down during stress. Our mission is to provide a safe haven in which children can learn through a variety of activities that will enrich them mentally and physically.
Minimum Age for Volunteer: 18
Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 18
Other Qualifications: Must have experience working with young children. A great candidate for this position will be able to motivated our students' by being very supportive.
Training Provided:
Time Range of Job: 5 months to 1 year
Days Available: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
Times Available: Afternoon

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Job(s) Listed By Above Agency:

1) Job Title: Yoga Instructor

• Job Location: Yonkers
• Job Description: Our program is in need of a volunteer yoga instructor who will work with a small group of young children in the after-school hours. We would like the children to learn the basics of yoga: to focus on stretching and breathing techniques to center and calm down during stress. Our mission is to provide a safe haven in which children can learn through a variety of activities that will enrich them mentally and physically.
• Minimum Age for Volunteer: 18
• Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 18
• Other Qualifications: Must have experience working with young children. A great candidate for this position will be able to motivate our students by being very supportive.
• Training Provided:
• Time Range of Job: 5 months to 1 year
• Days Available: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
• Times Available: Afternoon

What difference do YOU make? Share your comments and experiences at Lisa Tolliver On Air and Online and at Blogcritics Writer: Lisa Tolliver.###

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ CLUSTER - Westchester Mediation Center STRIDES Mentoring Program

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ CLUSTER - Westchester Mediation Center STRIDES Mentoring Program is part of a series entitled: "Blogging 24+ ways to make a difference on Make A Difference Day and year-round." The local and international volunteer opportunities included in this series were compiled by:

Shannon Cobb, Deputy Director, The Volunteer Center of United W ay
280 N. Central Avenue, Hartsdale, NY10530, USA
TEL (01) 914-227-9313 / FAX (01) 914-948-3032
www.volunteer-center.org/

Agency Information:

• Agency Name: CLUSTER - Westchester Mediation Center STRIDES Mentoring Program
• Agency Address: 20 South Broadway, Yonkers, NY 10704 USA
• Mission: The mission of Cluster is to provide services and programs that will assist individuals and families in Yonkers and other parts of Westchester County, to build a better future for them and their communities. We are concerned about providing quality, cutting edge services. The thrust of all of our programs is the empowerment of individuals, families and communities to fulfill their dreams and potentials.

Contact Information:

• Contact Name: Lakesha Wallace
• Contact Title: Coordinator of Mentoring
• Contact Email: STRIDESMentoring AT aol DOT com
• Contact Phone: (01) 914-963-6500 ext 252
• Web Site:

Job(s) Listed By Above Agency:

1) Job Title: Mentor

• Job Location: Yonkers
• Job Description: New mentoring program in Yonkers, modeled after Big Brothers and Big Sisters, is now recruiting volunteers to be matched with youth ages 9-15 from low-income families. These children have expressed interest in the program and look forward to developing a friendship with an adult. Mentors must be 21 and able to commit to their mentee for at least one year for 6-8 hours a month.
• Minimum Age for Volunteer: 21
• Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 21
• Other Qualifications:
• Training Provided:
• Time Range of Job: Ongoing
• Days Available: All Days
• Times Available: All

What difference do YOU make? Share your comments and experiences at Lisa Tolliver On Air and Online and at Blogcritics Writer: Lisa Tolliver.###

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ Cabrini Immigrant Services

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ Cabrini Immigrant Services is part of a series entitled: "Blogging 24+ ways to make a difference on Make A Difference Day and year-round." The local and international volunteer opportunities included in this series were compiled by:

Shannon Cobb, Deputy Director, The Volunteer Center of United W ay
280 N. Central Avenue, Hartsdale, NY10530, USA
TEL (01) 914-227-9313 / FAX (01) 914-948-3032
www.volunteer-center.org/

Agency Information:

• Agency Name: Cabrini Immigrant Services
• Agency Address: 21 Cedar Street, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 USA
• Mission: Provide broad based essential services to immigrants, refugees, asylees and other newcomers in the Rivertowns of Westchester County.

Contact Information:

• Contact Name: Provide broad based essential services to immigrants, refugees, asylees and other newcomers in the Rivertowns of Westchester County.
• Contact Title: English Language Coordinator
• Contact Email: mmcgowan1 AT aol DOT com
• Contact Phone: (01) 914-674-1937
• Web Site: www.cabrinifoundation.org/

Job(s) Listed By Above Agency:

1) Job Title: Youth VolunteerTutor

Job Location: Dobbs Ferry

Job Description: Help tutor kids after school. Peer tutors are needed to help with different course work,especially related to English as a Second Language. Youth volunteers are needed during the school year on weekday afternoons.

Minimum Age for Volunteer: 14

Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 14

Other Qualifications:

Training Provided:

Time Range of Job: Ongoing

Days Available: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday

Times Available: Afternoon

2) Job Title: ESL Tutor

• Job Location: Dobbs Ferry
• Job Description: Work one-on-one with someone learning English as a second language. Teach, support and guide someone as they learn English. Training is provided. Volunteers are recruited throughout the year. Work hours are flexible.
• Minimum Age for Volunteer: 14
• Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 14
• Other Qualifications:
• Training Provided:
• Time Range of Job: Ongoing
• Days Available: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
• Times Available: All, Morning, Afternoon, Evening ###

What difference do YOU make? Share your comments and experiences at Lisa Tolliver On Air and Online and at Blogcritics Writer: Lisa Tolliver.###

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle is part of a series entitled: "Blogging 24+ ways to make a difference on Make A Difference Day and year-round." The local and international volunteer opportunities included in this series were compiled by:

Shannon Cobb, Deputy Director, The Volunteer Center of United W ay
280 N. Central Avenue, Hartsdale, NY 10530 USA
TEL (01) 914-227-9313 / FAX (01) 914-948-3032
www.volunteer-center.org/

Agency Information:

• Agency Name: Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle
• Agency Address: 79 Seventh Street, PO Box 713, New Rochelle, NY 10802 USA
• Mission: Inspire and enable all young people, especially those from disadvantaged circumstances, to realize their full potential as responsible, productive and caring citizens.

Contact Information:

• Contact Name: Lynne Bielecki
• Contact Title: Executive Director
• Contact Email: lbielecki AT bgcnr DOT org
• Contact Phone: (01) 914-235-3736
• Web Site: www.bgcnr.org

Jobs Listed By Above Agency:

1) Job Title: Coach

• Job Location: New Rochelle
• Job Description: Coach children and youth ages 6 to 18 in your sport or recreational area of expertise. Sharing your expertise helps us to continue to advance our mission to inspire and enable all young people, especially those from disadvantaged circumstances, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens.
• Minimum Age for Volunteer: 18
• Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 14
• Other Qualifications: Knowledge of the sport or recreational activity and coaching experience with children and youth.
• Training Provided: As needed to help individual be successful in position.
• Time Range of Job: 1 week to 4 months, 5 months to 1 year, Special/One Time Event, Ongoing
• Days Available: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
• Times Available: Afternoon, Evening

What difference do YOU make? Share your comments and experiences at Lisa Tolliver On Air and Online and at Blogcritics Writer: Lisa Tolliver.###

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ Bikur Cholim of Westchester

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ Bikur Cholim of Westchester is part of a series entitled: "Blogging 24+ ways to make a difference on Make A Difference Day and year-round." The local and international volunteer opportunities included in this series were compiled by:

Shannon Cobb, Deputy Director, The Volunteer Center of United W ay
280 N. Central Avenue, Hartsdale, NY 10530 USA
TEL (01) 914-227-9313 / FAX (01) 914-948-3032
www.volunteer-center.org/

Agency Information:

• Agency Name: Bikur Cholim of Westchester
• Agency Address: 82 Bon Air Avenue, New Rochelle, NY 10804 USA
• Mission: Social Visiting for Jewish people that are homebound or in nursing home. County programs for all ages

Contact Information:

• Contact Name: Shoshana Shinnar
• Contact Title: Executive Director
• Contact Email: poshshosh AT aol DOT com
• Contact Phone: (01) 914-633-3403
• Web Site: www.bikurcholim.org/

Job(s) Listed By Above Agency:

1) Job Title: Visting Homebound Seniors - Southern Westchester

• Job Location: New Rochelle
• Job Description: Volunteers are needed to visit homebound seniors twice a month, and once before each of the five Jewish holidays. After signing up, volunteers will be matched with a senior whom they will visit for that year.
• Minimum Age for Volunteer: 18
• Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 10
• Other Qualifications:
• Training Provided:
• Time Range of Job: 5 months to 1 year
• Days Available: All Days
• Times Available: All

What difference do YOU make? Share your comments and experiences at Lisa Tolliver On Air and Online and at Blogcritics Writer: Lisa Tolliver.###

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ Beczak Environmental Education Center

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ Beczak Environmental Education Center is part of a series entitled: "Blogging 24+ ways to make a difference on Make A Difference Day and year-round." The local and international volunteer opportunities included in this series were compiled by:

Shannon Cobb, Deputy Director, The Volunteer Center of United W ay
280 N. Central Avenue, Hartsdale, NY 10530 USA
TEL (01) 914-227-9313 / FAX (01) 914-948-3032
www.volunteer-center.org/

Agency Information:

• Agency Name: Beczak Environmental Education Center
• Agency Address: 35 Alexander Street, Yonkers, NY 10701 USA
• Mission: Beczak’s mission is to educate people about the ecology, culture and history of the Hudson River by providing interactive educational experiences focused on the River. We do this so that everyone we reach can become better stewards of the Hudson and better citizens of their community.

Contact Information:

• Contact Name: Sarah Macdonald
• Contact Title: Outreach & Volunteer Coordinator
• Contact Email: smacdAT beczak DOT org
• Contact Phone: (01) 914-377-1900 x11
• Web Site: www.beczak.org

Jobs Listed By Above Agency:

1) Job Title: Marsh Steward

• Job Location: Yonkers
• Job Description: Our Environmental Education Center has redeveloped a wetland on the shore of the Hudson River. This Tidal Marsh needs daily upkeep to help keep the soil, plants, and animals within it healthy. A Marsh Steward would be a volunteer who enjoys working outdoors and is comfortable working alone or with a group of people. Each Marsh Steward would visit the marsh on a regularly scheduled basis (probably one hour, once a week for each marsh steward) and perform routine maintenance and upkeep of the marsh. This will include, but is not limited to, maintaining the fences that keep the geese out of the marsh, picking up trash carried in daily by the tide, and hauling drift wood out of the marsh into designated areas in the park. The Marsh Steward will help us keep this Marsh healthy, making it a better tool to use to teach the public about the special role it plays in the Hudson River Estuary.
• Minimum Age for Volunteer: 16
• Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 12
• Other Qualifications: *Reliability and responsibility. *Ability to make a 1 hr/week commitment for at least 6 months. *Ability to lift at least 20 pounds. *Transportation to the site (this could include access to the Yonker's public transit system). *Share Beczak's mission to protect and educate about the Hudson.
• Training Provided: Marsh Stewards will be trained by Beczak staff how to maintain the fencing in the marsh. Marsh stewards will be given all equipment needed to perform the job adequately. Once training in complete, volunteer must feel comfortable working independently.
• Time Range of Job: Ongoing
• Days Available: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
• Times Available: All

2) Job Title: Park and Garden Beds Crew

• Job Location: Yonkers
  Job Description: Our Environmental Education Center is located on a Westchester county park that is directly on the shores of the Hudson River, and helps to maintain and improve this park land. The park and the garden beds within it need regular upkeep. In addition, volunteers can have a lot of input in some gardening projects in the spring and summer of 2006, where they will work with master gardeners and learn to: plant native plants, weed non-native and invasive species, help develop educational gardens, and make the space more welcoming to the public. All training is provided – just bring your hands!
• Minimum Age for Volunteer: 16
• Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 9
• Other Qualifications: *Reliability and responsibility. *Like working outdoors. *The ability to make a 2 hour per week commitment for at least 6 months. *Transportation to the site (this could include access to the Yonker's public transit system). *Share Beczak's mission to protect and educate about the Hudson.
• Training Provided: Volunteers will work with master gardeners from the Cornell Cooperative Extension in Westchester County to plan, develop, and maintain a vibrant park and garden.
• Time Range of Job: Ongoing
• Days Available: All Days
• Times Available: All

What difference do YOU make? Share your comments and experiences at Lisa Tolliver On Air and Online and at Blogcritics Writer: Lisa Tolliver.###

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ Andrus-On-Hudson

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ Andrus-On-Hudson is part of a series entitled: "Blogging 24+ ways to make a difference on Make A Difference Day and year-round." The local and international volunteer opportunities included in this series were compiled by:

Shannon Cobb, Deputy Director, The Volunteer Center of United W ay
280 N. Central Avenue, Hartsdale, NY10530, USA
TEL (01) 914-227-9313 / FAX (01) 914-948-3032
www.volunteer-center.org/

Agency Information:

• Agency Name: Andrus-On-Hudson
• Agency Address: 185 Old Broadway, Hastings On Hudson, NY 10706 USA
• Mission: Andrus on Hudson is a a licensed residential health care facility for persons over the age of 65. It is a community of adults which fosters health and well-being and serves as a model and center for community-based and intergenerational inititives promoting healthy aging.

Contact Information:

• Contact Name: Sandra Sindaco
• Contact Title: Director of Community Life
• Contact Email: volunteers AT andrusonhudson DOT org
• Contact Phone: (01) 914-478-3700 x674
• Web Site: www.andrusonhudson.org

Job(s) Listed By Above Agency:

1) Job Title: Computer Instructor

• Job Location: Hastings On Hudson
• Job Description: Volunteer at a Senior Center that is nestled within 26 wooded acres, overlooking the Hudson River in Hastings-on-Hudson. We are a residential facility offering a continuum of care for seniors. We are looking for volunteers to teach basic computer skills to seniors. We are extremely flexible. Whatever time you have to give, an hour a week, an hour a month, days, evenings, weekends,will be greatly appreciated. The possibilities are endless.
• Minimum Age for Volunteer: 15
• Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 1
• Other Qualifications:
• Training Provided:
• Time Range of Job: 1 week to 4 months, 5 months to 1 year, Ongoing
• Days Available: All Days
• Times Available: All

2) Job Title: Ceramic Instructor

• Job Location: Hastings On Hudson
• Job Description: Volunteer at a Senior Center that is nestled within 26 wooded acres, overlooking the Hudson River in Hastings-on-Hudson. We are a residential facility offering a continuum of care for seniors. We have a fully stocked ceramic studio complete with 2 kilns. We are in need of volunteers teach ceramics or pottery to our nursing home residents. Volunteer hours are flexible.
• Minimum Age for Volunteer: 17
• Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 1
• Other Qualifications: knowledge of ceramics, glazes and use of kiln
• Training Provided:
• Time Range of Job: 1 week to 4 months, 5 months to 1 year, Ongoing
• Days Available: All Days
• Times Available: All ###

What difference do YOU make? Share your comments and experiences at Lisa Tolliver On Air and Online and at Blogcritics Writer: Lisa Tolliver.###

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ AARP - Tax Aide Program

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ AARP - Tax Aide Program is part of a series entitled: "Blogging 24+ ways to make a difference on Make A Difference Day and year-round." The local and international volunteer opportunities included in this series were compiled by:

Shannon Cobb, Deputy Director, The Volunteer Center of United W ay
280 N. Central Avenue, Hartsdale, NY 10530 USA
TEL (01) 914-227-9313 / FAX (01) 91 4-948-3032
www.volunteer-center.org/

Agency and Contact Information:

• Agency Name: AARP - Tax Aide Program
• Agency Address: 1055 Pleasantville Road, Briarcliff Manor, NY 10510
• Mission: The nation's largest, free, volunteer-run tax preparation service, the program serves low and middle income taxpayers, with special attention to those age 60 and older.
• Contact Name: Fred Westendorf
• Contact Title: Volunteer District Coordinator
• Contact Email: fcw AT alum DOT mit DOT edu
• Contact Phone: (01) 914-762-4791
• Web Site: www.aarp.org.80/taxaide/home

Job(s) Listed By Above Agency:

• Job Title: AARP Tax-Aide Southern Westchester
• Job Location: New Rochelle
• Job Description: An AARP Tax-Aide Counselor provides free income tax form preparation and answers tax questions one day a week durng the February to April tax filing period. This is a great opportuity to help low-to-middle-income and older taxpayers in your community. Successful Counselors enjoy meeting and working with people, are detail-oriented, and have good reading & math skills. Experience with taxes desirable but not required. The Counselor will receive approximately one week's tax training in January, and will need to pass the IRS take-home exam.
• Minimum Age for Volunteer: 18
• Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 18
• Other Qualifications: Successful Counselors enjoy meeting and working with people, are detail-oriented, and have good reading & math skills. Experience with taxes desirable but not required.
• Training Provided: You will receive approximately one week's tax training in January, and will need to pass the IRS take-home exam.
• Time Range of Job: 1 week to 4 months
• Days Available: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
• Times Available: Morning, Afternoon ###

What difference do YOU make? Share your comments and experiences at Lisa Tolliver On Air and Online and at Blogcritics Writer: Lisa Tolliver.###

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ TVC - Westchester Emergency Volunteer Reserves-Medical Reserve Corps

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference - LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES @ TVC - Westchester Emergency Volunteer Reserves-Medical Reserve Corps is part of a series entitled: "Blogging 24+ ways to make a difference on Make A Difference Day and year-round." The local and international volunteer opportunities included in this series were compiled by:

Shannon Cobb, Deputy Director, The Volunteer Center of United W ay
280 N. Central Avenue, Hartsdale, NY 10530 USA
TEL (01) 914-227-9313 / FAX (01) 914-948-3032
www.volunteer-center.org/

Agency Information:

• Agency Name: TVC - Westchester Emergency Volunteer Reserves-Medical Reserve Corps
• Agency Address: 280 N. Central Ave. Suite 310, Hartsdale, NY 10530

Contact Information:

• Contact Name: Marianne Partridge
• Contact Title: Program Manager
• Contact Email: marianne AT volunteer-center DOT org
• Contact Phone: (01) 914-948-4452
• Web Site: www.volunteer-center.org

Job(s) Listed By Above Agency:

• Job Title: Emergency Responder/Medical&Non Medical
• Job Location: Valhalla
• Job Description: Volunteers receive free training and may be called on to assist during a large-scale disaster or public health emergency in Westchester County. The training is comprised of 6 hours of in-class training and 10 hours of on-line training, including: Disaster Prepardness, Fire Safety, Fire Suppression, Light Search and Rescue, The Incident Command System, Hazardous Materials, Decontamination Procedures, Points of Distribution Mgmt, Smallpox Overview, Quarantine & Isolation, Inoculation Procedures.
• Minimum Age for Volunteer: 18
• Minimum Age for youth accompanied by a parent or chaperone: 18
• Other Qualifications:
• Training Provided: Volunteers receive free training (in-class and on-line) including: Disaster Prepardness,Fire Safety & Suppression, Lt Search & Rescue, Incident Command, HazMat, Decontamination, Points of Distribution Mgmt, Quarantine & Isolation, Inoculation Procedures.
• Time Range of Job: Ongoing, Other (20 hours (approx.) of training)
• Days Available: All Days, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
• Times Available: All, Morning, Afternoon, Evening

What difference do YOU make? Share your comments and experiences at Lisa Tolliver On Air and Online and at Blogcritics Writer: Lisa Tolliver.###

Blogging 24+ Ways to Make a Difference on Make A Difference Day and Year-Round

Today is Make A Difference Day 2006. America's largest day of doing good occurs annually on the fourth Saturday in October.

"Blogging 24+ ways to make a difference on Make A Difference Day and year-round" is a collaborative project by Shannon Cobb (Deputy Director - The Volunteer Center of United Way), Marianne Partridge (Program Manager - Westchester Emergency Volunteer Reserves-Medical Reserve Corps) and Lisa Tolliver (Producer/Host - the Lisa Tolliver Show and Principal - 360 MERIDIAN, LLC). The project's "four-eyed" mission: to inform, instruct, intrigue and inspire citizens to get involved to save and improve lives on Make a Difference Day and year-round.

NOTE: In addition to this Make A Difference Day blogging project, Marianne and Lisa collaborate to publicize Emergency Preparedness & Safety Tips from WEVR-MRC on the Lisa Tolliver Show and online. [Suscribe]

Meet the project team:

• Shannon Cobb at WVOX after broadcasting on the Lisa Tolliver Show on October 25, 2006 (taken by Lisa Tolliver) ,
• Marianne Partridge with Fire Captain Bobby Benz at WVOX after broadcasting on the Lisa Tolliver Show on October 11, 2006 (taken by Lisa Tolliver),
• Lisa Tolliver at the 2006 Shinnecock Festival in Southampton (taken by T.K.A.):

These are the components of Blog 24+ Ways to Make A Difference Ideas on Make A Difference Day and Year-Round:

• October 1 - blog post: Lisa Tolliver On Air and Online: What Difference Do YOU Make?
• October 25 - Lisa Tolliver Show broadcast on New York Radio WVOX 1460 AM entitled: "Volunteer Opportunities on Make a Difference on Make a Difference Day and Year-Round. "
• October 28 - publication of local and international volunteer opportunities compiled by Shannon Cobb at the Volunteer Center of United Way. You can access them at Lisa Tolliver On Air and Online, and at the end of the day, at Blogcritics Writer: Lisa Tolliver (where readers will be encouraged to share their ideas, volunteer experiences and feedback).

October 25 'Lisa Tolliver Show': Volunteer Opportunities on Make a Difference Day and Year-Round

Photos of featured guest, Shannon Cobb, Deputy Director of the Volunteer-Center, taken by Lisa Tolliver at New York Radio WVOX AM 1460 on October 25, 2006. Copyright (c) Lisa Tolliver. All Rights Reserved.

ROUNDUP: In 'Lisa Tolliver Show' guests save and improve lives year-round, I announced that Marianne Partridge, Program Director at WEVR-MRC, and Shannon Cobb, Deputy Director at the Volunteer-Center (depicted above) would be my guests on the October 25 Lisa Tolliver Show on New York Radio WVOX AM 1460. Indeed, Marianne shared Emergency Preparedness & Safety Tip #13 - CLASSIFICATION AND TREATMENT OF BURNS and the how-to's and benefits associated with volunteering with WEVR-MRC. Shannon shared numerous ideas for volunteering and advice for making a difference.

NEXT STEPS: I hope listeners learned to classify and treat burns and will apply what they learned from Marianne's Safety Tip #13. I also hope listeners will pitch in to make a difference. On Saturday, this blog will post some of those ideas in honor of Make a Difference Day. ###

Halloween fun on FineLiving.com

I recently received the following press release:

KNOXVILLE, TENN (October 12, 2006) -- This Halloween, FINE LIVING TV NETWORK and its Web site have a treat for everyone with eerie sounds, spooky stories, and even Snoopy!

FINE LIVING is celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the classic Halloween special, "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown." Famous for Linus and Sally's wait in the Pumpkin Patch for the coming of the Great Pumpkin, the special was written by Charles M. Schulz. United Media provided FineLiving.com with artwork for an exclusive streaming video narrated by "The Weekly Top 40" syndicated radio program.

Also, beginning on Friday the 13th on FineLiving.com, there will be a 3-minute downloadable WAV file of compiling creepy sounds that are ideal for iPods and can be looped as a backdrop for trick-or-treats!

The scary festivities continue on-air with the premiere of "We Live Here - In Fear," on Saturday, Oct. 21 at 8 p.m. on FINE LIVING TV NETWORK. "We Live Here - In Fear" visits three of the most documented haunted cities in the country and tracks down the locals to get the inside scoop on all the deep, dark secrets. From Salem to Savannah to St. Augustine, FINE LIVING takes a trip to haunted inns that the original owners claim are inhabited, pubs that crawl with unsettled spirits and other truly local haunts. Along the way, those who live amongst the ghouls and the ghosts, and are willing to talk about it, share tales that are truly spirited.

Hope you'll consider mentioning these entertaining Halloween items on FineLiving.com. ###

Contact:

Eddie Ward Dera, Roslan &Campion PR 212-966-4600, x. 10
eddie AT drcpublicrelations DOT com###

Tomorrow's 'Lisa Tolliver Show' guests save and improve lives year-round

Marianne Partridge, from WEVR-MRC, will share tips that can mean the difference between life and death during a disaster or emergency. Shannon Cobb, from the Volunteer-Center, will share how to make a difference on Make a Difference Day and year-round.

Join us on the Lisa Tolliver Show.
When: At noon, Eastern Time.
Where: On New York Radio WVOX 1460 AM and www.wvox.com.

Get more details.

'Project Runway 3' Episodes 11 and 13 - the power of three

THE POWER OF THREE:

The power of three reigned throughout Project Runway, Season 3. In particular, Episode 11 - What the Elle can be recapped in three phrases: three shown-n-tell assignments, three adjectives, and four is the new three.

Additionally, since in Episode 13-Finale, only one of the final four designers could win three were auf'd. My, my, my.

EPISODE 11:

Three Show-N-Tell Assignments: Tasks One and Two

The four designers were assigned three show-n-tell tasks, two of which diverged from the usual design challenges. The first two tasks were delivered by Nina Garcia, who hosted a visit to Elle magazine. Task One (SHOW ): create a signature design to be featured in Elle magazine's First Look page. Task Two (TELL): choose three adjectives describing your point of view as a designer.

Back at Parsons New York, the designers chose these descriptors:

• Jeffrey Sebelia's: romantic, irreverent, provocative
• Laura Bennett's: competent, elegant, glamourous
• Michael Knight's: sexy, sensual, sultry
• Uli Herzner's: fun, life [sic], adventurous

Task Three: A Picture is Worth 1,000 Words or Three Memes and a Babe

Tim Gunn added another wrinkle to the challenge, substantially hiking up the designers' excitement and stress levels. A mere half day before the already tight deadline for finishing assignments One and Two, he squeezed this SHOW assignment out of clenched teeth: outfit the models and capture, in a photograph, the essence of your design perspective.

At this point, all the contestants - except Michael - began fraying at the seams. Michael, as usual, worked fastest and most efficiently and finished with a margin of time to spare. What came to mind was Bravo TV's Project Runway 3 Heid Klum as a sinister priestess holding in the palm of her hand the designers' shrunken heads stuck in a voodoo-like pin cushion.

The upshot: I thought all four designs, descriptors and photos worked well together, but the judges disagreed. They panned Jeffrey and Michael, liked Laura's but cautioned, once again, against becoming a one-note, and loved Uli's, which won the Elle magazine First Look spread.

FOUR IS THE NEW THREE:

This time, no one was eliminated. The judges broke pattern, choosing the final four, rather than three, designers to show Bryant Park. Whoo hoo! Happiness prevailed throughout Project Runway land, on screen and among fans.

EPISODE 13-FINALE: THE POWER OF THREE STILL RULES

In Episode 13 - Finale, Jeffrey's model Marilinda and his 12-piece collection bagged the ultimate prizes. Also-rans Laura (whose chic showing of evening and cocktail wear was my second favorite), Michael (whose earlier great work was cheaper by the dozen, disappointing us fans) and Uli (whose collection I thought was best) were winners, too, in that they got to show Bryant Park and receive exposure and positive reviews from fashionistas and fans alike.

My reaction to the outcome:

Surprise! Surprise! Surprise!

- Gomer Pyle, USMC

MORE REACTIONS

I'll unravel more reactions in Project Runway 3, Episode 13-Finale shows a collection of winners and losers, even before Bryant Park .###