Changing the World One Box at a Time
NEW YORK, June 22 -- When it comes to young business founders with great ideas, one thing is for sure: Justin Zucker and Michael Hauke's three-year-old company Box-O-Box, with its uber-cool college care packages, has hit it big. This year Box-O-Box plans to book an estimated $500,000.00 in revenue.
28-year-old Hauke and Zucker have cornered the market on entertaining, quirky, and ultra-hip care packages for college students. Savvy thinkers, the guys from day one have listened carefully to students and parents at weekly roundtables, resulting in ever-changing packages that college students covet.
The eye-catching packages from Box-O-Box, sent right to college dorms, are rapidly becoming the must-have item on students' -- and parents' -- back-to-school lists. There are 24 themes to choose from for virtually all occasions, including birthdays, cool dorm stuff, exam time, pampering, get well, movie night, and all-nighters. What makes the boxes stand out is that each one is jammed not only with memorable munchies, cool gadgets and just plain-fun stuff, but with humor, TLC and a bit-o-attitude ... and, of course, a message from home.
Colleges and universities from Maine to Hawaii are jumping on the brash Box-O-Box bandwagon, making the company their official care package provider. And the packages are proving all the rage on campus, with student government associations, fraternities, sororities, sports clubs and social groups partnering with Box-O-Box.
And Box-O-Box is gaining a foothold beyond the campus, too. People are catching on to sending a Box-O-Love to a sweetie on Valentine's Day or a Movie Night Box for a Netflix extravaganza. Corporations are asking for customized packages for their special events. Check out the colorful boxes at http://www.boxobox.com.
This isn't the first entrepreneurial endeavor for this talented pair. Hauke and Zucker, who earned degrees in Resource Economics from UMass, started Dirty Business Laundry Delivery Service as part of a college class project and later sold the company. "This time we're out to change the world, one box at a time," Hauke concludes.
For more information, contact:
Cindy Rakowitz
(818) 783-3307
cindy@brpublicrelations.com
Diane Blackman
(212) 989-3646
dblackman@brpublicrelations.com
Showing posts with label Education. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Education. Show all posts
Monday, June 22, 2009
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
2 Upcoming American Fertility Association 'Manicures & Martinis' Series Events
The American Fertility Association's Infertility Prevention Program
7.3 million!
That's how many American women have difficulty conceiving, but many of those cases could have been prevented with some simple lifestyle choices and changes. Education is the key and what better way to learn than over complimentary manicures and martinis?
"Dealing with infertility robs women of control over their own lives. Education about our bodies and about things we can do now to preserve our fertility potential gives that control back. The AFA's Manicures & Martinis Infertility Prevention Program has proven to be an empowering and liberating experience for women, whether they choose motherhood or not," says Corey Whelan, The AFA's Program Director and creator of the growingly popular and impactful Manicures & Martinis series.
The American Fertility Association's Manicures & Martinis Infertility Prevention Program is a national series of events dedicated to young women who are not quite ready to conceive, but might one day want to have a child. Fertility experts will lead conversations about how to prevent infertility whenever possible, the reality of the "biological clock," the harmful effects of STD's and environmental toxins, and the differences between gynecologists and reproductive endocrinologists. Attendees will enjoy complimentary manicures and martinis, or a "Fertiltini" - an all-organic, alcohol-free cocktail.
The AFA's Executive Director, Ken Mosesian, says, "Through post-event surveys, young women are telling us how much they have learned about the basics of reproduction, especially about their biological clocks, about the importance of preventing STD's, and about birth control. One participant said, 'Finally, some answers.'"
The list of cities in which Manicures & Martinis will be held continues to grow, with events most recently scheduled in San Francisco and Laguna Niguel.
Manicures & Martinis San Francisco
Date: Tuesday, June 9th
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 PM
Location: Nova Nail Spa, 811 Mission Street, San Francisco
Registration Contact: Corey@corey@theafa.org or 718.853.1411
Presenter: Marcelle Cedars, MD, of UCSF Center for Reproductive Health
Manicures & Martinis Laguna Niguel
Date: Tuesday, June 16th
Time: 6:00-7:30
Location: Accent on Nails, 28121 Crown Valley Pkwy, Suite B, Laguna Niguel
Registration Contact: Corey@corey@theafa.org or 718.853.1411
Presenter: Brian Acacio, MD, of Acacio Fertility Center
The national series has been greeted with overwhelming success in New York City and other large metropolitan areas. We invite young women in their early 20's and 30's to attend, and learn all they can about how to safeguard themselves from becoming part of that grim statistic of 7.3 million.
The American Fertility Association
The American Fertility Association, a 501(c)(3) national non-profit organization, is a lifetime resource for infertility prevention, reproductive health and family building. AFA services and materials are provided free of charge to consumers and available to everyone without reservation. These services include an extensive online library, live monthly online webinars, telephone and in-person coaching, a resource directory, hosted message boards, daily fertility news and a toll-free support line. Visit http://www.theafa.org or call 888.917.3777.
Media Contact:
Brian Armentrout
Communications Director
The American Fertility Association
o: 205.425.3644
c. 917.324.1545
brian@theafa.org
SOURCE: The American Fertility Association
7.3 million!
That's how many American women have difficulty conceiving, but many of those cases could have been prevented with some simple lifestyle choices and changes. Education is the key and what better way to learn than over complimentary manicures and martinis?
"Dealing with infertility robs women of control over their own lives. Education about our bodies and about things we can do now to preserve our fertility potential gives that control back. The AFA's Manicures & Martinis Infertility Prevention Program has proven to be an empowering and liberating experience for women, whether they choose motherhood or not," says Corey Whelan, The AFA's Program Director and creator of the growingly popular and impactful Manicures & Martinis series.
The American Fertility Association's Manicures & Martinis Infertility Prevention Program is a national series of events dedicated to young women who are not quite ready to conceive, but might one day want to have a child. Fertility experts will lead conversations about how to prevent infertility whenever possible, the reality of the "biological clock," the harmful effects of STD's and environmental toxins, and the differences between gynecologists and reproductive endocrinologists. Attendees will enjoy complimentary manicures and martinis, or a "Fertiltini" - an all-organic, alcohol-free cocktail.
The AFA's Executive Director, Ken Mosesian, says, "Through post-event surveys, young women are telling us how much they have learned about the basics of reproduction, especially about their biological clocks, about the importance of preventing STD's, and about birth control. One participant said, 'Finally, some answers.'"
The list of cities in which Manicures & Martinis will be held continues to grow, with events most recently scheduled in San Francisco and Laguna Niguel.
Manicures & Martinis San Francisco
Date: Tuesday, June 9th
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 PM
Location: Nova Nail Spa, 811 Mission Street, San Francisco
Registration Contact: Corey@corey@theafa.org or 718.853.1411
Presenter: Marcelle Cedars, MD, of UCSF Center for Reproductive Health
Manicures & Martinis Laguna Niguel
Date: Tuesday, June 16th
Time: 6:00-7:30
Location: Accent on Nails, 28121 Crown Valley Pkwy, Suite B, Laguna Niguel
Registration Contact: Corey@corey@theafa.org or 718.853.1411
Presenter: Brian Acacio, MD, of Acacio Fertility Center
The national series has been greeted with overwhelming success in New York City and other large metropolitan areas. We invite young women in their early 20's and 30's to attend, and learn all they can about how to safeguard themselves from becoming part of that grim statistic of 7.3 million.
The American Fertility Association
The American Fertility Association, a 501(c)(3) national non-profit organization, is a lifetime resource for infertility prevention, reproductive health and family building. AFA services and materials are provided free of charge to consumers and available to everyone without reservation. These services include an extensive online library, live monthly online webinars, telephone and in-person coaching, a resource directory, hosted message boards, daily fertility news and a toll-free support line. Visit http://www.theafa.org or call 888.917.3777.
Media Contact:
Brian Armentrout
Communications Director
The American Fertility Association
o: 205.425.3644
c. 917.324.1545
brian@theafa.org
SOURCE: The American Fertility Association
Friday, October 10, 2008
Dedicated to Change: Kerry Washington
It's refreshing to read this article about Kerry Washington because she is doing much more than just being a celebrity.
--------------------------------------------------------
Hollywood Star Combines Her Love For Acting With Activism
by Marti Parham, Jet Magazine (condensed)
Unlike some movie stars, driving a luxury car isn't important to actress Kerry Washington. She'd rather help sustain the planet by getting around in her eco-friendly hybrid, a Toyota Prius.
But Washington, co-star of the new movie Lakeview Terrace, which debut in theaters at No. 1, does care abut being socially responsible, and her off-screen commitment to environmental, political and social causes is as dynamic as her performances in nearly 30 movies.
"I'm not afraid of terms like activist or humanist or womanist. I'm honored to be associated with those words," she says. But, "when I exercise my right to free speech, I don't do it as an activist, I do it as a responsible American."
Washington's life also reflects her concern for humanity. She's raised money to help stop violence against women, lobbied Congress for more arts funding and campaigned for Democratic Presidential candidate Barack Obama.
She joined the V-Day movement, an organization against women's abuse, after seeing a production of Eve Ensler's award-wining play Vagina Monologues. V-Day raises money through benefit performances of the Monologues for shelters and programs that assist women.
"It's very rare that we meet somebody who is not the survivor of abuse or doesn't know someone who is, be it physical or mental," says Washington, who is now a V-Day board member. "I think there are very few of us who are unaffected by violence against women."
Ensler, who has known the actress since 2002, applauds her hard work. "As a board member she's been an incredible advocate and has changed consciousness, given speeches, raised money and has just brought this movement into all kinds of new places."
In April, Washington spoke on Capitol Hill as a member of the Hollywood lobbying group the Creative Coalition, which asked a House committee for higher funding for the National Endowment for the arts.
"I'm really grateful for how much I've benefited from the arts and arts education. The impact that that's had on my life is huge," says the actress who, as a youth, participated in a children's arts program. "I understand how important arts are to our economy, to our communities and to our souls as human beings to maintain our culture. It's just something I'm really passionate about."
Politics are also a passion of this native of The Bronx, New York. After hearing Sen. Barack Obama speak at the Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles, she become one of his biggest supporters, visiting nine states and speaking in several cities on the presidential hopeful's behalf.
"I was really moved. Not just by his speech, but by who was in the audience. I was really blown away by the diversity in his support. I saw that this is a person who really could bring this country together and cross all types of lines.
"I went backstage, met a bunch of people from the campaign and I said, 'I'd like o be involved. As involved as you guys would like for me to be." That's kind of how it took off."
Her mother, Valerie, says Kerry tackled social issues such as AIDS, safe sex and drug abuse during theater productions during her adolescent years in theater.
"Activism is not new to Kerry," the retired professor says abut her daughter. "...It's not surprising that these issues continue to drive her activism along with racial and gender equality and access issues. Her activism is grounding and rewarding."
For the George Washington University grad who holds a degree in Performance Studies, acting will always be her first love. But I still have more that I want to do, be, say and experience.
--------------------------------------------------------
Hollywood Star Combines Her Love For Acting With Activism
by Marti Parham, Jet Magazine (condensed)
Unlike some movie stars, driving a luxury car isn't important to actress Kerry Washington. She'd rather help sustain the planet by getting around in her eco-friendly hybrid, a Toyota Prius.
But Washington, co-star of the new movie Lakeview Terrace, which debut in theaters at No. 1, does care abut being socially responsible, and her off-screen commitment to environmental, political and social causes is as dynamic as her performances in nearly 30 movies.
"I'm not afraid of terms like activist or humanist or womanist. I'm honored to be associated with those words," she says. But, "when I exercise my right to free speech, I don't do it as an activist, I do it as a responsible American."
Washington's life also reflects her concern for humanity. She's raised money to help stop violence against women, lobbied Congress for more arts funding and campaigned for Democratic Presidential candidate Barack Obama.
She joined the V-Day movement, an organization against women's abuse, after seeing a production of Eve Ensler's award-wining play Vagina Monologues. V-Day raises money through benefit performances of the Monologues for shelters and programs that assist women.
"It's very rare that we meet somebody who is not the survivor of abuse or doesn't know someone who is, be it physical or mental," says Washington, who is now a V-Day board member. "I think there are very few of us who are unaffected by violence against women."
Ensler, who has known the actress since 2002, applauds her hard work. "As a board member she's been an incredible advocate and has changed consciousness, given speeches, raised money and has just brought this movement into all kinds of new places."
In April, Washington spoke on Capitol Hill as a member of the Hollywood lobbying group the Creative Coalition, which asked a House committee for higher funding for the National Endowment for the arts.
"I'm really grateful for how much I've benefited from the arts and arts education. The impact that that's had on my life is huge," says the actress who, as a youth, participated in a children's arts program. "I understand how important arts are to our economy, to our communities and to our souls as human beings to maintain our culture. It's just something I'm really passionate about."
Politics are also a passion of this native of The Bronx, New York. After hearing Sen. Barack Obama speak at the Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles, she become one of his biggest supporters, visiting nine states and speaking in several cities on the presidential hopeful's behalf.
"I was really moved. Not just by his speech, but by who was in the audience. I was really blown away by the diversity in his support. I saw that this is a person who really could bring this country together and cross all types of lines.
"I went backstage, met a bunch of people from the campaign and I said, 'I'd like o be involved. As involved as you guys would like for me to be." That's kind of how it took off."
Her mother, Valerie, says Kerry tackled social issues such as AIDS, safe sex and drug abuse during theater productions during her adolescent years in theater.
"Activism is not new to Kerry," the retired professor says abut her daughter. "...It's not surprising that these issues continue to drive her activism along with racial and gender equality and access issues. Her activism is grounding and rewarding."
For the George Washington University grad who holds a degree in Performance Studies, acting will always be her first love. But I still have more that I want to do, be, say and experience.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Ann Taylor LOFT Launches Program to Support Teachers
'LOFT Loves Teachers' Initiative Provides Retail Discount and Educational Funding
NEW YORK, Ann Taylor LOFT, a division of Ann Taylor Stores Corporation (NYSE: ANN), announced the re-launch of the "LOFT Loves Teachers" program.
Just in time for the fall season, LOFT Loves Teachers is a membership program exclusively for educators. Beginning September 30, 2008, educators who visit AnnTaylorLOFT.com/teachers can receive an introductory 20% discount for LOFT's hip, stylish fashions. Members also receive a 15% coupon for future purchases all year long, valid in-store with school ID. In addition, the AnnTaylorLOFT.com/teachers website features style tips and a community blog where educators can connect.
"We felt that this program was an excellent opportunity to support the valuable contributions that educators make to our children and our society," said Diane Holtz, Executive Vice President and General Merchandising Manager for Ann Taylor LOFT. "Teachers deserve high-quality, stylish fashions that are both affordable and comfortable for the classroom," she added.
More relevant than ever in a difficult economy, LOFT provides high-quality, fashionable-yet-casual style at surprising value, fitting the needs of teachers nationwide. LOFT began a one-time shopping discount for teachers in 2007, and the concept developed into a more robust membership program with content, community, and charitable funding in fall 2008.
Through the company's ANN Cares charitable arm, LOFT has partnered with DonorsChoose.org, a non-profit organization dedicated to addressing the scarcity and inequitable distribution of learning materials and experiences in public schools. LOFT Loves Teachers will link to DonorsChoose.org, a website where educators can request materials needed for classroom projects. LOFT has pledged $20,000 to fund 50% of all LOFT Loves Teachers members' classroom projects posted on DonorsChoose.org. In addition, LOFT Loves Teachers will distribute $8,000 in DonorsChoose.org GivingCards, which allow recipients to help fund other educators in need.
The LOFT Loves Teachers membership program begins September 30, and is only valid at Ann Taylor LOFT stores.
ABOUT LOFT
Ann Taylor LOFT is the relaxed, casual, fun, fashion destination for women. LOFT offers the current trends and the newest items, with great quality at surprising prices. LOFT operates 519 stores across the United States, as well as online at AnnTaylorLOFT.com. LOFT is a division of Ann Taylor Stores Corporation (NYSE: ANN).
ABOUT ANN CARES
ANN Cares is the philanthropic and social responsibility program of Ann Taylor Stores Corporation (NYSE: ANN) that supports causes to which the Company is firmly committed--women, children, the environment, and Ann Taylor associates. For more information, visit ANNCares.com.
###
Ann Taylor LOFT
NEW YORK, Ann Taylor LOFT, a division of Ann Taylor Stores Corporation (NYSE: ANN), announced the re-launch of the "LOFT Loves Teachers" program.
Just in time for the fall season, LOFT Loves Teachers is a membership program exclusively for educators. Beginning September 30, 2008, educators who visit AnnTaylorLOFT.com/teachers can receive an introductory 20% discount for LOFT's hip, stylish fashions. Members also receive a 15% coupon for future purchases all year long, valid in-store with school ID. In addition, the AnnTaylorLOFT.com/teachers website features style tips and a community blog where educators can connect.
"We felt that this program was an excellent opportunity to support the valuable contributions that educators make to our children and our society," said Diane Holtz, Executive Vice President and General Merchandising Manager for Ann Taylor LOFT. "Teachers deserve high-quality, stylish fashions that are both affordable and comfortable for the classroom," she added.
More relevant than ever in a difficult economy, LOFT provides high-quality, fashionable-yet-casual style at surprising value, fitting the needs of teachers nationwide. LOFT began a one-time shopping discount for teachers in 2007, and the concept developed into a more robust membership program with content, community, and charitable funding in fall 2008.
Through the company's ANN Cares charitable arm, LOFT has partnered with DonorsChoose.org, a non-profit organization dedicated to addressing the scarcity and inequitable distribution of learning materials and experiences in public schools. LOFT Loves Teachers will link to DonorsChoose.org, a website where educators can request materials needed for classroom projects. LOFT has pledged $20,000 to fund 50% of all LOFT Loves Teachers members' classroom projects posted on DonorsChoose.org. In addition, LOFT Loves Teachers will distribute $8,000 in DonorsChoose.org GivingCards, which allow recipients to help fund other educators in need.
The LOFT Loves Teachers membership program begins September 30, and is only valid at Ann Taylor LOFT stores.
ABOUT LOFT
Ann Taylor LOFT is the relaxed, casual, fun, fashion destination for women. LOFT offers the current trends and the newest items, with great quality at surprising prices. LOFT operates 519 stores across the United States, as well as online at AnnTaylorLOFT.com. LOFT is a division of Ann Taylor Stores Corporation (NYSE: ANN).
ABOUT ANN CARES
ANN Cares is the philanthropic and social responsibility program of Ann Taylor Stores Corporation (NYSE: ANN) that supports causes to which the Company is firmly committed--women, children, the environment, and Ann Taylor associates. For more information, visit ANNCares.com.
###
Ann Taylor LOFT
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Exhibit: Road to Freedom: Photographs of the Civil Rights Movement
What:
Road to Freedom
Photographs of the Civil Rights Movement, 1956 -1968
Experience history through stirring pictures that capture and document the process of the Civil Rights Movement. This exhibition features work by more than twenty photographers, such as Bob Adelman, Morton Broffman, Bruce Davidson, Doris Derby, Larry Fink, James Karales, Builder Levy and Steve Schapiro.
Also included are the works of press photographers and amateurs who capture nugguts of time with documents of the marches, demonstrations and public gatherings that were used as a tool for the spark of social changes. Key photographs include Bob Adelman's Kelly Ingram Park, Birmingham, 1963; Morton Broffman's Dr. King and Coretta Scott King Leading Marchers, Montgomery, Alabama, 1965; Bill Eppridge's Chaney Family as they depart for the Funeral of James Chaney, Philadelphia, Mississippi, 1964; and Builder Levy's I Am a Man/Union Justice Now, Memphis, Tennessee, 1968.
This photo exhibit makes for an enlightening, educational and entertaining event for all ages.
When:
Currently on display until October 5, 2008
Where:
High Museum of Art
1280 Peachtree Street (between 15th and 16th Streets)
Atlanta, Georgia 30309
General telephone number: 404-733-HIGH (4444)
Hours:
Monday: Closed
Tues, Wed, Fri, Sat: 10:00am - 5:00pm
Thursday: 10:00am - 8:00pm
Sunday: 12:00pm (noon) - 5:00pm
Price/Fee:
Members: Free
Adults: $18.00
Seniors/Students: $15
Children:
ages 6 to 17: $11
ages 5 and under: Free
Unable to attend the exhibit, a comprehensive book is available for $35.00 click here to purchase.
On view in Atlanta through October 5, 2008, Road to Freedom: Photographs of the Civil Rights Movement, 1956–1968 is organized by Julian Cox, Curator of Photography at the High Museum of Art. This exhibition is supported by Sandra Anderson Baccus, The Atlanta Foundation, The Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation and an award from the National Endowment for the Arts which believes that a Great Nation Deserves Great Art. This exhibition is also supported by American Express.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Just Having the TV on can Distract Kids, Cut Down on Playtime
By Greg Toppo, USA TODAY
Pediatricians have long said children younger than 2 shouldn't watch any television. But in new findings from a small-scale study, researchers say that even having a TV on in the background could be "an environmental hazard" for children.
For the study, released today, researchers observed 50 children, ages 1 to 3, for an hour at a time as they played alone in a small room with a variety of toys. Parents sat nearby, and for half of each session (starting either at the beginning or 30 minutes in), a small TV broadcast a taped episode of Jeopardy.
After videotaping and carefully analyzing the children's reactions, researchers found that kids watched the TV only in snippets but that it modestly shortened their playtime. TV decreased play's intensity and cut by half the amount of time children focused on a given toy.
The researchers chose Jeopardy on the theory that it would be "nearly incomprehensible" to toddlers.
Prior research has suggested that very young children don't pay attention to TV they can't understand, and recent surveys show that as many as two-thirds of children up to 6 years old live in homes where the TV is on at least half the time, even if no one is watching.
In one survey, 14% of parents said the TV is always on.
In the new study, researchers say the disruptive effects were "real but small," amounting to a few seconds in many cases. For instance, kids played about 90 seconds less in the half hour with the TV on — they looked momentarily at the screen, then went back to their toys.
But researcher Daniel Anderson, a psychologist at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst, says he's concerned the effects could be cumulative.
"It's that situation that I'm most concerned about, when you look at TV as being a disruptive influence hour after hour, day after day, week after week, year after year," he says.
Perhaps most significant: When the TV was on, kids of all ages played with a given toy — a jack-in-the-box, a baby doll, blocks, a toy telephone, a school bus with toy passengers — for about 30 seconds, on average. Without TV, it was 60 seconds.
Researchers say solitary play, especially with toys, offers many benefits. It allows children to practice planning ahead and develop cognitive skills.
"A lot of that gets practiced in the form of toy play," Anderson says. "And that requires sustained attention."
He says parents should take a look at how much the TV is on — and make sure children have "substantial" quiet time.
The study appears today in the journal Child Development.
Pediatricians have long said children younger than 2 shouldn't watch any television. But in new findings from a small-scale study, researchers say that even having a TV on in the background could be "an environmental hazard" for children.
For the study, released today, researchers observed 50 children, ages 1 to 3, for an hour at a time as they played alone in a small room with a variety of toys. Parents sat nearby, and for half of each session (starting either at the beginning or 30 minutes in), a small TV broadcast a taped episode of Jeopardy.
After videotaping and carefully analyzing the children's reactions, researchers found that kids watched the TV only in snippets but that it modestly shortened their playtime. TV decreased play's intensity and cut by half the amount of time children focused on a given toy.
The researchers chose Jeopardy on the theory that it would be "nearly incomprehensible" to toddlers.
Prior research has suggested that very young children don't pay attention to TV they can't understand, and recent surveys show that as many as two-thirds of children up to 6 years old live in homes where the TV is on at least half the time, even if no one is watching.
In one survey, 14% of parents said the TV is always on.
In the new study, researchers say the disruptive effects were "real but small," amounting to a few seconds in many cases. For instance, kids played about 90 seconds less in the half hour with the TV on — they looked momentarily at the screen, then went back to their toys.
But researcher Daniel Anderson, a psychologist at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst, says he's concerned the effects could be cumulative.
"It's that situation that I'm most concerned about, when you look at TV as being a disruptive influence hour after hour, day after day, week after week, year after year," he says.
Perhaps most significant: When the TV was on, kids of all ages played with a given toy — a jack-in-the-box, a baby doll, blocks, a toy telephone, a school bus with toy passengers — for about 30 seconds, on average. Without TV, it was 60 seconds.
Researchers say solitary play, especially with toys, offers many benefits. It allows children to practice planning ahead and develop cognitive skills.
"A lot of that gets practiced in the form of toy play," Anderson says. "And that requires sustained attention."
He says parents should take a look at how much the TV is on — and make sure children have "substantial" quiet time.
The study appears today in the journal Child Development.
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Savvy, Focused and Organized = Success for 10 year old College Student
A great motivational story not just for kids but for adults as well, is 10 year old Moshe Kai Cavalin's, who was on the Today Show yesterday. He might look like the average kid but he's smart and has a thirst for continuous learning. Below is a summary of his Today Show appearance. Hopefully kids will learn a little from him and not waste their summer sitting in front of the TV or computer all day.
SFPR
----------------
10-year-old college sophomore credits ‘willpower’
After two straight-A years of community college, he’s set sights on the stars
By Mike Celizic (TODAYShow.com contributor)
Moshe Kai Cavalin likes to tell about the time his father took him to take his college entrance test. The administrators told his dad he couldn’t bring an 8-year-old with him into the test room. His father told them the boy was going in alone — because he was the one taking the test.
“They were smiling ... thought he was telling a joke,” Moshe told TODAY’s Ann Curry Wednesday in New York. But when Moshe’s scores came back, the administrators were suddenly telling his dad something else — that Moshe needed to be taking advanced mathematics.
And so, on a day when other kids his age are in the final week or two of fifth grade, 10-year-old Moshe was visiting New York and off for the summer, having just completed his second year at East Los Angeles College, a community college.
Moshe aced all his courses, in such subjects as statistics, advanced mathematics, foreign languages and music. Now he says he’s hoping for a scholarship to a prestigious four-year college.
To say Moshe is a prodigy is like saying Michelangelo could paint a little. His parents, Shu Chen Chien and Yosef Cavalin, have known that ever since they tried to enroll him in a private elementary school and discovered that the boy knew more than his teachers. So they home-schooled him for two years before realizing he was already beyond elementary and high school level and ready for college.
Willpower and Focus
But Moshe likes to say he’s no different than other kids. He plays the piano and soccer and has a roomful of trophies from martial arts. His mother says that when he’s not studying, he goofs off and jumps around like any other 10-year-old.
“But when we put him to study, he is just able to concentrate — focus,” his mother told NBC.
“Willpower and hard work,” is Moshe’s explanation for his success.
“Even though I have a very high IQ, I don’t consider myself genius-smart,” he told Curry. “There’s 6.5 billion people on this earth, and every one is smart in his or her own way.”
Moshe’s way is his ability to absorb everything he reads and make subjects such as advanced math simple.
“I don’t really goof off that much,” he explained. “Except eating and sleeping, mostly I study. Just very, very tiny breaks.”
His parents encourage his studies and seem to have just one taboo activity for their prodigy son — no video games. “It’s a waste of time,” Moshe said.
His father is Jewish-Italian, his mother Chinese, and Moshe’s Chinese given name, Kai, means “obedient tiger.” The name recognizes that he was born in the Year of the Tiger and also seems fitting to his eager devotion to learning.
Eye on the Stars
Beyond his knowledge, the 4-foot-7 college student — he sits in a booster seat when his mother drives him to school — also exhibits wisdom.
Unlike other kids, he doesn’t predict what he will be when he grows up, or speak in terms of wishes. Instead, he says, “The future’s not for me to see, but I intend to be an astrophysicist.”
Why astrophysics? Curry asked.
“It’s very interesting — studies about the sky, studies about black holes, wormholes, time travel,” Moshe replies.
When other kids meet him, he said, they’re astonished to learn he’s already in college. “They’re really surprised,” Moshe said. “They always say, ‘Wow! What? Are you really in college?’ They mostly don’t believe it.”
His fellow students in college mostly didn’t believe it either. When he first arrived with his mother, they thought she was the student and he was just tagging along. Before long, he was tutoring them in mathematics and other subjects.
Moshe isn’t the youngest college student ever. Fourteen years ago, Michael Kearney had already graduated from the University of South Alabama with a degree in anthropology at the age of 10.
Curry asked Moshe why he so enjoys learning when other kids his age find books boring.
“King Solomon said that knowledge is more important than silver or gold,” Moshe replied. “And I add that knowledge is like a big brother helping you until the end of your life.
SFPR
----------------
10-year-old college sophomore credits ‘willpower’
After two straight-A years of community college, he’s set sights on the stars
By Mike Celizic (TODAYShow.com contributor)
Moshe Kai Cavalin likes to tell about the time his father took him to take his college entrance test. The administrators told his dad he couldn’t bring an 8-year-old with him into the test room. His father told them the boy was going in alone — because he was the one taking the test.
“They were smiling ... thought he was telling a joke,” Moshe told TODAY’s Ann Curry Wednesday in New York. But when Moshe’s scores came back, the administrators were suddenly telling his dad something else — that Moshe needed to be taking advanced mathematics.
And so, on a day when other kids his age are in the final week or two of fifth grade, 10-year-old Moshe was visiting New York and off for the summer, having just completed his second year at East Los Angeles College, a community college.
Moshe aced all his courses, in such subjects as statistics, advanced mathematics, foreign languages and music. Now he says he’s hoping for a scholarship to a prestigious four-year college.
To say Moshe is a prodigy is like saying Michelangelo could paint a little. His parents, Shu Chen Chien and Yosef Cavalin, have known that ever since they tried to enroll him in a private elementary school and discovered that the boy knew more than his teachers. So they home-schooled him for two years before realizing he was already beyond elementary and high school level and ready for college.
Willpower and Focus
But Moshe likes to say he’s no different than other kids. He plays the piano and soccer and has a roomful of trophies from martial arts. His mother says that when he’s not studying, he goofs off and jumps around like any other 10-year-old.
“But when we put him to study, he is just able to concentrate — focus,” his mother told NBC.
“Willpower and hard work,” is Moshe’s explanation for his success.
“Even though I have a very high IQ, I don’t consider myself genius-smart,” he told Curry. “There’s 6.5 billion people on this earth, and every one is smart in his or her own way.”
Moshe’s way is his ability to absorb everything he reads and make subjects such as advanced math simple.
“I don’t really goof off that much,” he explained. “Except eating and sleeping, mostly I study. Just very, very tiny breaks.”
His parents encourage his studies and seem to have just one taboo activity for their prodigy son — no video games. “It’s a waste of time,” Moshe said.
His father is Jewish-Italian, his mother Chinese, and Moshe’s Chinese given name, Kai, means “obedient tiger.” The name recognizes that he was born in the Year of the Tiger and also seems fitting to his eager devotion to learning.
Eye on the Stars
Beyond his knowledge, the 4-foot-7 college student — he sits in a booster seat when his mother drives him to school — also exhibits wisdom.
Unlike other kids, he doesn’t predict what he will be when he grows up, or speak in terms of wishes. Instead, he says, “The future’s not for me to see, but I intend to be an astrophysicist.”
Why astrophysics? Curry asked.
“It’s very interesting — studies about the sky, studies about black holes, wormholes, time travel,” Moshe replies.
When other kids meet him, he said, they’re astonished to learn he’s already in college. “They’re really surprised,” Moshe said. “They always say, ‘Wow! What? Are you really in college?’ They mostly don’t believe it.”
His fellow students in college mostly didn’t believe it either. When he first arrived with his mother, they thought she was the student and he was just tagging along. Before long, he was tutoring them in mathematics and other subjects.
Moshe isn’t the youngest college student ever. Fourteen years ago, Michael Kearney had already graduated from the University of South Alabama with a degree in anthropology at the age of 10.
Curry asked Moshe why he so enjoys learning when other kids his age find books boring.
“King Solomon said that knowledge is more important than silver or gold,” Moshe replied. “And I add that knowledge is like a big brother helping you until the end of your life.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Style and Focus News Bites
** Can Nintendo’s new, Wii Fit transform the home-fitness market? Scheduled to be released in North America sometime next week, Wii Fit is not meant to replace going to the gym but as an additional fitness option. But in a world of $3,000 elliptical machines and $150-an-hour personal trainers, it has at least a chance of becoming a global, affordable, mass-market interactive home-fitness system. (On its overseas debut last month, it became one of the fastest-selling games ever in Britain.)
The system costs $90 (plus an additional $250 for the basic Wii console, if you don't already have the unit). It uses a television and a sensitive “balance board” placed on the floor to present a few dozen activities, from push-ups to yoga, to more entertaining challenges like balance games and aerobic contests. Nintendo is not aiming Wii Fit at people with a serious exercise regimen. Rather, it is meant to appeal to the person busy with work and family who just wants to have fun getting a little toned at home. (New York Times)
** Supermodel Alek Wek and fashion designers Mark Badgley and James Mischka of Badgley Mischka were honored by the American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) at the 30th Annual American Image Awards this Wednesday evening, May 14 in New York. Wek received the "Spirit of a Woman" award for her work as a model and humanitarian, and Badgley and Mischka were named "Designer of the Year." (Fashion Wire Daily)
** Two of Britain’s leading independent schools are planning on boycotting this summer’s exam league tables, claiming they do not give a true picture of academic achievement. St Paul’s School for boys in Barnes, South West London, and Eton, in Windsor, confirmed that they will refuse to submit their GCSE and A level results to the Independent Schools Council for publication in August. They will join Winchester College, which took the same step last year.
Martin Stephen, High Master of St Paul’s said that the league tables kill good teaching and damage education, as they encouraged schools to teach to the test and in some instances to enter pupils for soft qualifications, rather than for more difficult traditional subjects. (London Times)
** Chanel Goes Interactive at Bergdorf Goodman. The upscale retailer and Chanel Fragrance and Beauté have teamed up to launch an interactive beauty area, the first of its kind in the U.S. (WWD)
** The Gap and the Whitney Museum of American Art introduces Limited Edition Artist colletion T-shirts. The shirts are designed by 13 contemporary artists, including Chuck Close, Jeff Koons, Marilyn Minter, Kiki Smith, Cai Guo-Qiang, Barbara Kruger, Ashley Bickerton, Kenny Scharf, Glenn Ligon, Rirkrit Tiravanija, Kerry James Marshall, Hanna Liden and Sarah Sze. The shirts range in price from $28 to $38.
The limited edition collection is available exclusively at select Gap stores in the U.S., Canada, the U.K. and franchise markets, as well as online in the U.S. at gap.com. They're also available at the Whitney Museum of American Art, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, the Museum of Contemporary Art Los Angeles, the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis and at Colette, a Paris-based boutique. (Press Release)
** Mary J. Blige and Marketing guru Steve Stoute recently announced their new charity initiative, FFAWN: The Mary J. Blige and Steve Stoute Foundation For the Advancement of Women Now, Inc.
FFAWN was originally created in 2007 by the two in order to use Mrs. Blige's personal story and success to inspire women from all walks of life to reach their individual potential. Blige said she hopes to help these women overcome the difficulties they face in their lives and to provide them with the drive and confidence to pursue and realize their goals and dreams. Through scholarships, grants, and programs that foster strong self-esteem, career development, and personal growth, FFAWN is intended to help women gain the confidence and skills they need to achieve success. (Press Release)
** Hills Finale Tops Ratings Among Young Viewers. Monday night's season finale of MTV's The Hills was watched by 2.94 million viewers between the ages of 12 and 34 and 3.77 total viewers. The ratings made The Hills finale the most watched show in its time period among 12-34-year-olds across both cable and broadcast networks. (Us magazine)
The system costs $90 (plus an additional $250 for the basic Wii console, if you don't already have the unit). It uses a television and a sensitive “balance board” placed on the floor to present a few dozen activities, from push-ups to yoga, to more entertaining challenges like balance games and aerobic contests. Nintendo is not aiming Wii Fit at people with a serious exercise regimen. Rather, it is meant to appeal to the person busy with work and family who just wants to have fun getting a little toned at home. (New York Times)
** Supermodel Alek Wek and fashion designers Mark Badgley and James Mischka of Badgley Mischka were honored by the American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) at the 30th Annual American Image Awards this Wednesday evening, May 14 in New York. Wek received the "Spirit of a Woman" award for her work as a model and humanitarian, and Badgley and Mischka were named "Designer of the Year." (Fashion Wire Daily)
** Two of Britain’s leading independent schools are planning on boycotting this summer’s exam league tables, claiming they do not give a true picture of academic achievement. St Paul’s School for boys in Barnes, South West London, and Eton, in Windsor, confirmed that they will refuse to submit their GCSE and A level results to the Independent Schools Council for publication in August. They will join Winchester College, which took the same step last year.
Martin Stephen, High Master of St Paul’s said that the league tables kill good teaching and damage education, as they encouraged schools to teach to the test and in some instances to enter pupils for soft qualifications, rather than for more difficult traditional subjects. (London Times)
** Chanel Goes Interactive at Bergdorf Goodman. The upscale retailer and Chanel Fragrance and Beauté have teamed up to launch an interactive beauty area, the first of its kind in the U.S. (WWD)
** The Gap and the Whitney Museum of American Art introduces Limited Edition Artist colletion T-shirts. The shirts are designed by 13 contemporary artists, including Chuck Close, Jeff Koons, Marilyn Minter, Kiki Smith, Cai Guo-Qiang, Barbara Kruger, Ashley Bickerton, Kenny Scharf, Glenn Ligon, Rirkrit Tiravanija, Kerry James Marshall, Hanna Liden and Sarah Sze. The shirts range in price from $28 to $38.
The limited edition collection is available exclusively at select Gap stores in the U.S., Canada, the U.K. and franchise markets, as well as online in the U.S. at gap.com. They're also available at the Whitney Museum of American Art, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, the Museum of Contemporary Art Los Angeles, the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis and at Colette, a Paris-based boutique. (Press Release)
** Mary J. Blige and Marketing guru Steve Stoute recently announced their new charity initiative, FFAWN: The Mary J. Blige and Steve Stoute Foundation For the Advancement of Women Now, Inc.
FFAWN was originally created in 2007 by the two in order to use Mrs. Blige's personal story and success to inspire women from all walks of life to reach their individual potential. Blige said she hopes to help these women overcome the difficulties they face in their lives and to provide them with the drive and confidence to pursue and realize their goals and dreams. Through scholarships, grants, and programs that foster strong self-esteem, career development, and personal growth, FFAWN is intended to help women gain the confidence and skills they need to achieve success. (Press Release)
** Hills Finale Tops Ratings Among Young Viewers. Monday night's season finale of MTV's The Hills was watched by 2.94 million viewers between the ages of 12 and 34 and 3.77 total viewers. The ratings made The Hills finale the most watched show in its time period among 12-34-year-olds across both cable and broadcast networks. (Us magazine)
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Things to Do: Visit the Boston African-American National Historic Site
Looking for an educational trip for you or your family. Why not visit the Boston African-American National Historic Site. When I was younger my family and I took a vacation to Boston and visited the site. It was a great learning experience and plus it's a way for children to learn more than what's found in the text books.
The historic site features a 1.6 mile trail that individuals or families can follow to visit 14 pre-Civil War history structures of a free Black community during the 19th century. Some of the places included are: the George Middleton House, Abiel Smith School, The African Meeting House*, The Philips School and Robert Gould Shaw and the 54th Regiment.
* Please Note: The African Meeting House is currently closed for major restoration.
To learn more about the tour please click here for the official site. Self-guided tours can be conducted at any time, Monday through Sunday. However if you would like a ranger guided tour they are conducted as follows:
Summer Season (Memorial Day - Labor Day): Monday-Saturday: 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m.; for groups of 5 people or more, please call 24 hours in advance for reservations. Group Size Limit: 30 people
Winter Season (Labor Day - Memorial Day): Monday-Saturday: 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., by appointment only, and 2:00 p.m. tours are open to the public. Please call 24 hours in advance to schedule a tour. Group Size Limit: 30 people
Contact:
To reserve a spot for the tour please call 617-742-5415.
Price/Fee:
There are no fees associated with a visit to the Boston African-American National Historic Site. However, a donation may be given at the Visitor's Center for the Museum of African-American History or you can visit the website and make a donation.
The historic site features a 1.6 mile trail that individuals or families can follow to visit 14 pre-Civil War history structures of a free Black community during the 19th century. Some of the places included are: the George Middleton House, Abiel Smith School, The African Meeting House*, The Philips School and Robert Gould Shaw and the 54th Regiment.
* Please Note: The African Meeting House is currently closed for major restoration.
To learn more about the tour please click here for the official site. Self-guided tours can be conducted at any time, Monday through Sunday. However if you would like a ranger guided tour they are conducted as follows:
Summer Season (Memorial Day - Labor Day): Monday-Saturday: 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m.; for groups of 5 people or more, please call 24 hours in advance for reservations. Group Size Limit: 30 people
Winter Season (Labor Day - Memorial Day): Monday-Saturday: 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., by appointment only, and 2:00 p.m. tours are open to the public. Please call 24 hours in advance to schedule a tour. Group Size Limit: 30 people
Contact:
To reserve a spot for the tour please call 617-742-5415.
Price/Fee:
There are no fees associated with a visit to the Boston African-American National Historic Site. However, a donation may be given at the Visitor's Center for the Museum of African-American History or you can visit the website and make a donation.
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