25 Şubat 2013 Pazartesi

Valentine's Day is for Animal Lovers! Join us!

To contact us Click HERE

Valentine’s Day is for Animal Lovers


  Our Shop is Now Open!

Whether or not you have a human Valentine, if you have a pet, you already know what it is to have unconditional love on a year round basis.
Amazon Community Animal Rescue, Education and Safety invites you to join our virtual event “Valentine’s Day is forAnimal Lovers,” which will be a Facebook event during the month of February.
Please RSVP "yes" and show your support during February by earning donations for our animals simply by shopping online!
In partnership with We-Care.com, we will promote Valentine related items that can be purchased online from reliable, well known merchants, at no extra cost to the purchaser.  
Having recently won a $1000 Grant from We-Care.com, in which we generated over 10,000 valid tweets that were worth 10 cents each, we know the power of pennies, nickels and dimes in fundraising.
Also consider that every penny earned is equivalent to 3 pennies where we operate in the Amazon Jungle of Peru!  Currently we are raising funds to improve our no-kill shelter in Iquitos, Peru.
We hope to introduce new people to Amazon CARES and our vital work.  Perhaps not all of these people would normally donate through us, but they would consider making an online purchase using one of our links.
Will you support this unique event?  
Would you go a step further by serving on our Host Committee?  A member of the Host Committee commits to inviting at least ten friends and promoting our virtual event.
Please let me know by commenting below or replying to molly@amazoncares.org.  Be sure to grab a banner for your blog, Facebook page or website!





Sincerely,
Molly MednikowExecutive Director of Amazon CARES
Manuella Incoming Director of Amazon CARES

Amazon CARES Veterinary Trips: Dates and Facts

To contact us Click HERE

2013 Vet Trip Dates:

March 31 - April 14 - Apply Today!June 2 - 16 
August 4 - 18
October 13 - 27 


General Trip Description:

Spay / Neuter Project for street dogs/cats and owned animals for low income families.

Project Location: Amazon Rainforest near Iquitos, Peru.  Some trips include day trips or a complete 5-day jungle expedition to remote locales along the Amazon River.

Languages: English, Rudimentary Spanish is an asset

Who can volunteer? Veterinarians, Veterinary Nurses, Veterinary Technicians, Veterinary Assistants, Experienced Animal Handlers

Fees Include:  All food and lodging when staying in jungle facility. Meals taken "in-town" are not the responsibility of Amazon CARES. Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks are not covered. Filtered water will always be available, and often, fruit juice will also be available.  Nominal transportation costs to and from airport are not covered.

Each participant is expected to pay their personal transportation costs to and from Iquitos, Peru. All food and lodging during boat / extended jungle trips are provided with the above exceptions.

Not included:  International & Domestic airfares, airport departure taxes or visa fees, excess baggage charges, additional tours taken away from the group, and nights during the trip due to flight cancellations, alcoholic beverages or bottled water, snacks, insurance of any kind, laundry, phone calls, radio calls or messages, reconfirmation of flights and items of personal nature, domestic flight. Gratuities to rainforest tour guides are appreciated, but are not obligatory and are not included.




See our website for more information!


Milton's and Dinner & a Cause

To contact us Click HERE
Welcome to Milton's Cuisine and Cocktails

Have you ever been to a place that while you were still there, you were already excited about your NEXT visit?  That’s how it was for me yesterday when we tried Milton’s Cuisine and Cocktails in Historic Crabapple for the very first time.  When we arrived, we were seated in one of the rooms of this 150 year old farmhouse.  The rich wood that adorned the floors and ceiling was a true testament of what was to come.  The food, like the wood, was a combination of old and new.  It delivered those southern favorite comfort foods, like fried okra, mac and cheese , and fried green tomatoes, yet gave a new twist. 

Pan Seared Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes

Once we were seated at our table, We were greeted by our waiter who not only fulfilled his duty as our server, but did so with pride.  He told us the origin of the Broadwell farmhouse, the history of the chef, Boyd Rose, and the garden in the back which delivered fresh ingredients for each and every dish.  We decided on the fried green tomato stack with goat cheese and tomato puree, as our appetizer.  Since our little one was getting restless, I decided to take her for a walk around the outdoor patio, which would definitely be a great option for your dining experience, weather permitting.  As our waiter opened the door to the patio, he suggested we walk back behind the small, red barn to checkout the garden.  So, that is exactly what we did.  When we got back there, we saw the diagram pointing out where everything had been planted.  There happened to be someone working in the garden, who was happy to point out the squash blossoms, cobs of corn on the stalk, partially grown watermelon, and tomatoes of every variety.  Not only was it a great lesson, it built excitement for our upcoming fair, and was an experience we will not soon forget.

Out Back at Milton's Milton's Acre. A Story in the Making.

We arrived back at our table to tell of our adventure only to notice our tomato stack had arrived (and had been partially eaten thanks to our dining companion who self admittedly had no will power when the dish arrived).  It was a culinary delight.  It had a basil infused olive oil that gave it a flavor that two fried green tomato connoisseurs could only dream of consuming.  Not much later, our entrees arrived, consisting of Grilled Cilantro-Basil Marinated Chicken Breast with roasted garlic spinach, asparagus, and grilled vegetable ratatouille plus the daily pasta feature which was linguine with chicken, andouille sausage, corn, tomatoes, saffron and basil.  The chicken was tender and juicy.  The Cilantro and Basil marinade added the perfect flavor combo.  The vegetables definitely delivered that fresh, local, home-grown taste...you can't beat that!  The pasta was NOT covered with a sauce that took away from the flavor of the vegetables and herbs, but instead was finished with a luster of butter that highlighted their essence.  As I savored every bite, I found myself looking forward to the next visit, wondering what I would order then, and anticipating the reaction of my friends and family as I introduce them to my new favorite.  If you are looking for a meal that is filled with a combination of nutritious vegetables, but that will indulge your cravings for your southern favorites, then head to Milton’s in Historic Crabapple.


To make your visit to Milton’s (or a large variety of other Atlanta area restaurants) a more Knowtable experience, go to the Dinner & a Cause website for more information about purchasing a card that benefits Children of Conservation and gives you a 20% discount for your entire table at over 80 participating restaurants.  Act fast!  Although you can use the card as many times as you would like until August 31, 2011, that is when the offer ends. 


What is "Children of Conservation" Project?

“In 2009, the Children of Conservation project established a scholarship program to help provide an otherwise unattainable education to the children of wildlife sanctuary workers in Africa.  Since public funding for schooling in many third world countries ends at the 2nd grade, many bright and intelligent children grow up illiterate and unable to advance their station in life. Our program focuses on educating children who learn the value of conservation every day from their sanctuary employed parents. Another aspect of the project is the benefit provided to the soldiers of conservation (the parents). The end result is better care for the animals and a culture where the future leaders come from a background of conservation.”       - www.StumpeFoundation.org

This is the first year for this fundraiser, so help them spread the word in anyway you can!

*Milton's Photos courtesy of Studio 7 Photography

Can't we all just get along?

To contact us Click HERE
I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving Holiday and stuffed themselves! I traveled to NC and was the center of attention at the holiday family gathering. Everyone loved me and said what a great dog I was ... Heck Yeah! :)

I was exhausted after all the travel, and when I got home I was ready to just hang with my buddy Pickles. Here we are on a lazy, dreary Sunday morning. awwwwwww now why can't we all just get along like this... side by side and squishy faced!?

I hope you all are geared up for the holiday season. Please be safe if you are traveling, and enjoy your friends and family! I know I will!!

AND Don't forget to book your holiday pet care needs with Buckhead Pet Pals - the sooner you book the better! :)

Ciao for now!
Rocky

I'm a lucky boy

To contact us Click HERE

Hey Everybody -

  I'm a lucky dog you know.  During the school year and I'm at home during the day without any human company, I have my best buddy Mr. Pickles to hang out and play with.  And we really do play together.  My girls think its really funny to watch us playing, I just know its a ton of fun.  And in the summer time my brother and sister are home to hang with me, which makes me that happiest.

And on the occasion, I tell mom in the morning that I'm coming to the office with her.  That's where I get to see Catherine, Tiffany and play with Mr. Bill and my huge dog bone.  I mean, it really doesn't get any better than that.

Here's a pic of me and Mr. Pickles together.  Somedays when I come back from my midday walk with Laurie, Mr. P is hanging out on my bed waiting for me.  He might pretend like he doesn't enjoy me licking his head, but I know he loves it.

Hope all of you have as many great adventures during your days as I do!  And if you need a midday walk during the day like me, tell your humans to call Buckhead Pet Pals - they can help!

Peace out -
Rocky


24 Şubat 2013 Pazar

Sam Massell delivers strong economic recovery message during casual State of Buckhead talk

To contact us Click HERE
The unofficial but undisputed Mayorof Buckhead Sam Massell gave his annual State of Buckhead talk to the BuckheadBusiness Association on Thursday. The message was about a strong economicrecovery, but the presentation was unusually casual before the crowd of about100 attendees.

Sam Massell speaking to BBA
Massell told the crowd ofpredominantly business owners/representatives and civic leaders his predictions tothis group of a few years ago about the recession were right on point.
“I said Buckhead would be the lastto feel the recession and the first to come out of it, and that’s exactly whathappened,” Massell told the group at the BBA’s weekly breakfast meeting at theCity Club of Buckhead.
Theman who has presided over the Buckhead Coalition for over 24 years as itspresident joked and kept the audience smiling as he discussed the variousdevelopments coming up for Buckhead as it emerges from the economic downturnand why Buckhead has and will continue to prosper and grow.

 “We know that if we make the place pleasant enoughand attractive enough, it becomes the address of choice. It will pay dividends,and that’s exactly what’s happening today,” Massell said. “Buckhead hassomething for everybody, and it will continue to be so, in my opinion.”
The Buckhead name and thecommunity’s legacy is national and even international, the former Atlantamayor, real estate professional, travel agency executive and civic leader said.
Sam Massell, left, with BBA President Brian Daughdrill 
“When you go to Little Rock, Ark.and tell them you’re from Atlanta, they don’t say, 'Tell me about Midtown.'They say, 'Tell me about Buckhead.' That’s not by accident. The image ofBuckhead has been built with the leadership of the community and over and overwith the help of the media explaining what we have and what we offer.”
Massellquipped, “If from time to time it looks like I’m competing with downtown andMidtown, I am.”
The Buckhead Coalition is oneexample of the community’s leadership, providing 25 years of service as asupplement to local government….an advocate for Buckhead but not as anadversary to local government officials.  
In addition to the Coalition,Massell pointed out Buckhead has 40 neighborhood associations, 34 houses ofworship, 13 PTAs, nine service organizations “which all have leaders who arepushing forward for the progress and prosperity of our community.”
Massell rattled off a list ofaccomplishments that show the strength of the Buckhead community:
  • There currently are 3,549 apartmentsunder development in some stage in Buckhead that were announced between Jan. 1,2012 and now. If the area continues with this pace, Buckhead will have doubledits inventory in six years.
  • Buckhead has 50 banks, representing21 firms–six of which are headquartered in Buckhead. “Because that’s where themoney is,” he said.
  • Most of Atlanta’s population growthfrom the 2000 to 2010 census was in Buckhead,. "It's a pretty goodindicator we got something going that's good," he said.
  • It was a Buckhead resident whoarranged to buy the New York Stock Exchange for $8.2 billion….”That’s billiondollars,” he emphasized.
  • Retailsales in Buckhead grew by 6 percent in 2012 over the previous year.
  • Buckheadhas the lowest office space vacancy rate in Atlanta, which is 23 percentlower than the rates in Midtown and Downtown.
  • Early into the recession, Buckhead had four half-millionsquare-foot office buildings under construction for which the community was “ridiculedby the Wall Street Journal as well as the Atlanta Business Chronicle,” Massellexplained. He said he is proud that three of the buildings are “practicallyfull and the other is underway. We had the supply when the demand came back.”
  • While there is no new office spacebeing built in most of Atlanta, he said there are two under construction inBuckhead, on Peachtree Road at Tower Place and a medical office building atPeachtree Road and Bennett Street.

Part of the Buckhead Business Association audience that heard Massell
speak on the State of Buckhead at the City Club of Buckhead Thursday.
 Massell said he wanted to keep his talk this year unscriptedand allow more time for audience questions, which he did.
One association member asked about the status of the BuckheadAtlanta mixed-use project, formerly called Streets of Buckhead and owned byBuckhead developer Ben Carter, and now owned by San Diego-based developerOliverMcMillan. It had remained dormant for more than 2½ years beforeconstruction resumed in August.

“It’s under way. It looks slower than what youmight have wanted to see,” he said. “But cranes are moving, concrete is beingpoured, bricks are ready to be stacked.” He said the project will provideseveral new opportunities for Buckhead retail and buying, and it will beopening late next year.
Buckhead CID Chairman David Allman, left, was at the head
table with BBA President-elect Brian McGuire, center, and
Buckhead Coalition President Sam Massell. 

Massell also praised the Buckhead Community ImprovementDistrict and its chair David Allman for “its wonderful partnership,” raisingabout $50 million from its commercial property stakeholders and spending mostit to provide safer, smoother transportation through Buckhead.
“You see much more pedestrian traffic along Peachtree Road inBuckhead now and the beautification is a win, win, win,” Massell added.
Allman was at the head table for the meeting and waspresented his 2012 “Bullish on Buckhead,” award trophy, which he was not present toreceive at the BBA’s annual luncheon in January.

The former Realtor closed his speechwith a reminder he has offered each year: “Think about the opportunity, when itpresents itself, of buying a little bit of Buckhead and taking care of it nowand it will take care of you later.” 

Two Buckhead Coalition gifts bring smiles and more

To contact us Click HERE
The Buckhead Coalition is known for passing out gifts from time-to-time….giftsthat often bring a smile to the faces of the recipients and frequently put ajingle in their pockets.

Coalition's Sam Massell
The Coalition continued its practice recently in two very different ways,involving very different types of people, but still consistent with thephilosophy and common practices of its president Sam Massell.
The first was an unusual gift to the more than 100 business, civic and(should I say) political leaders who attended the Coalition’s recent annualluncheon celebrating its 25 years of community service. The second was to aWestminster Schools student who was a big winner on Jeopardy.
In the case of the 25thanniversary luncheon, when salutations are expressed, the Buckhead Coalition maywell be able to claim first place.  At its annual luncheon meeting it traditionallygives gift bags to all guests at the close of the meeting. This year’s gift bagcontained a special helping of good spirits.
Among the items in thezippered tote bag was a Coalition Achievement History primer, acustom-researched report on Buckhead office development, the 2013 Buckhead Guidebook, a just-publishedGeorgia hardback coffee table book, and a special celebratory treat—a bottle of“White Dog” whiskey as Massell called it.  
Atlantan's Charlie Thompson and Jim Chasteen shown
during a 2012 presentation to the Buckhead Business
Association of their new American Spirit Whiskey. 
The fifth of craftwhiskey, something that looks very much like what’s known in bootlegging circlesas “white lightning”, was a government-legal limited production whiskeyproduced by two Atlantans, Charlie Thompson and Jim Chasteen, who are buildingtheir own business the fun way, for their genuine and mutual enjoyment.     
As this was the Silver (25th)Anniversary of the Coalition and the keynote speaker for the event wasnationally-renowned comedian Jeff Foxworthy—known for his dry and trademarkedred-neck humor—what could be more appropriate, asked Massell. 
The Coalitionpresident pointed out that “Craft” beers (also brewed in limited quantities) have becomevery popular, “and this is under similar auspices, at a slightly moresophisticated level.“ The partners, operating as the American Spirit WhiskeyCompany, provided their select beverage as their introduction to this top-tierbusiness group. 
Nilai Sarda shown during his winning
appearance on Jeopardy.
“The only unknown now,is did the value of the Coalition’s combined gifts exceed the maximumdollar-value political persons should accept,” Massell said. “But who’s asking,as everyone came away happy.” 
Shortly after theCoalition annual luncheon, Massell read at BuckheadView about WestminsterSchools student Nilai Sarda winning third place and $26,400 on Jeopardy, fundsthe student plans to use for his college education. Massell sent Sarda a noteof congratulations and something else.
“As a resident of ourcommunity, you make us proud as you bring credit on you school, Westminster,”Massell wrote.
“We’re pleased you areconsidering serious use of the funds you were awarded,” Massell continued, “butwe’d like you to have some fun for the effort, for which we enclose a BuckheadLife Restaurant Group $100 gift card.”
That’s worth a smileand also added a deserved jingle in Nilai Sarda’s pocket. 

Do Restoration Hardware plans, drop of Cheesecake Factory lease foretell future for Buckhead block?

To contact us Click HERE
Buckhead businessman andmajor land owner Peter Blum may have begun setting the stage this past week fora major redevelopment of the entire block of Peachtree Road between BuckheadAvenue and the south side of Pharr Road, across the street from BuckheadAtlanta.

Peter Blum
Blum reportedly signed alease last week with Restoration Hardware for the former previously announcedredevelopment of the former ESPN Zone property at 3030 Peachtree Road, wherethe retailer plans to build a new six-story store.
During the same period,Blum decided not to renew a lease with the Cheesecake Factory restaurant nextdoor at 3024 Peachtree Road after the national restaurant chain had beenlocated there for about 20 years.  It wasa move with risk in this economy that most landlords likely would not havetaken.
But, as BuckheadCoalition President Sam Massell told BuckheadView, “Blum is a smartbusinessman….a man with vision.  He ownsa great deal of property” and, according to Massell, he is well positioned,well capitalized and very stable.
Because of that he hasbeen able, according to Massell, to wait for the right opportunity for the 3030Peachtree Road property, which ESPN Zone vacated a few years ago. He apparentlyhad other opportunities to lease the property that others might have jumped at,but he was able to wait for the right tenant, meaning Restoration Hardware.
During the BuckheadVillage’s heyday as the entertainment district of Atlanta, Blum successfullylanded the two national chain restaurants for the side-by-side Peachtree Roadlocations in what was considered a major coup.
The ESPN Zone property at right has been leased to Restoration Hardware.
Peter Blum's other property next door, where the Cheesecake Factory has
been located for about 20 years (to the left) is being marketed for a high
scale retail or possibly high-rise with retail. Cheesecake Factory will move. 
Now, taking the longview of the continued redevelopment and densiï¬�cation of the Buckhead Village  area along Peachtree, Blum has decided to repositionthe two properties once again. He envisions a redevelopment of the site wherethe restaurant will be replaced by high-end retail, including possiblehigh-rise development, and is positioning the property for these opportunities.
“Restoration Hardwareplans to build an iconic flagship store at 3030 Peachtree Road across the streetfrom Oliver McMillan’s Buckhead Atlanta. Given the new development, we wantedthe opportunity to reposition 3024 Peachtree Road for something equally grand,”said Blum, the managing partner for both 3024 Peachtree LLP and 3030 Peachtree,LLC.
Blum’s vision is part ofa larger strategy for the north Atlanta district, which goes back over adecade. Business and community leaders have been successfully regainingmomentum in the Buckhead Village after the Streets of Buckhead project stalledduring the past recession. San Diego, Calif.-based Oliver McMillan hascommenced construction for the initial phase of Buckhead Atlanta, a 1.5 millionsquare foot mixed use project in the heart of Buckhead, directly acrossPeachtree Road from Blum’s properties.
The above photo is of Restoration Hardware's store in
Scottsdale, Ariz. The architectural style is the same as that
proposed for Buckhead, but the store on Peachtree Road
will be six stories tall.instead of this three-story store. 
“Buckhead has long beenthe shopping, entertainment, and dining destination for Atlanta and willcontinue to be,” said Blum. “There was a reason why two of the country’s bestrestaurant concepts in Disney’s ESPN Zone and Cheesecake selected these sitesmany years ago.
“As the former BuckheadVillage continues to evolve, we believe the 3024 Peachtree site has a uniqueopportunity to attract a flagship, stand-alone store alongside the newRestoration Hardware and across the street from one of the most exciting developmentsin the country,” he added.  The bigger question iswhether or not this redevelopment of the west side of Peachtree Road in thatblock will continue south. The property immediately south of 3024 PeachtreeRoad is presently occupied by a Sun Trust Bank branch. Whether the bank owns orhas a land lease for that property is not known.
Across Pharr Road to thesouth, is the former Three Dollar Café site, which has been vacant for years.The owner of that property, Frank Bradshaw, reportedly has turned down severaloffers for the property over the years, not wanting to lease it for a bar. Atone time Ben Carter had mentioned the site as the location for a hotel andtheater as part of his Streets of Buckhead plans. But it is presumed Carteronly had an option on the property, not a formal lease or purchase agreement.
Just south of Peter Blum's Cheesecake Factory property is the SunTrust
Bank property at the corner of Peachtree and Pharr roads. 
Meanwhile, as previouslyreported by BuckheadView, representatives for Restoration Hardware  filed for permits with the city of Atlanta alittle over a week ago for the company’s new concept retail store, which willmirror the style of its Scottsdale, Ariz., store, but will be six stories tallinstead of three.
As reported byBuckheadView the Restoration Hardware development team has met twice with theDevelopment Review Committee of SPI-9 (Special Public Interest district), inJanuary and earlier this month) to discuss plans for their new store.
At the February DRCmeeting, the Restoration Hardware team said it hoped to begin demolition of theformer ESPN building in May, begin construction of the new building in June andhave an opening of the new store in July or August of 2014. 
DionMeltzer, the president of Mainboard Equity, in August of 2008, purchased thesoutheast corner of Peachtree and Pharr roads, with reported future plans ofredeveloping the strip retail center with a boutique hotel and ground-floorretail to complement the original Streets of Buckhead.
But Meltzer’splan at the time involved holding the property for some time and seeing howCarter fared with  Streets of Buckhead.The stores in the strip center have turned since then, but there is noindication at present of new development.  
Thebig question is whether or not the redevelopment of the Blum properties mightjust jumpstart a snowball effect and bring about other redevelopments in thearea as Buckhead Atlanta development continues toward a late 2013 to 2014opening. We will have to wait and see.
As for the two Blumproperties, Jamie Hargather and Joseph Rogers with Wilson Hull & Neal RealEstate assisted 3030 Peachtree, LLC in negotiations with Restoration Hardware,and will spearhead the marketing efforts for the adjoining 1.75 acre site at3024 Peachtree Road.

Can't we all just get along?

To contact us Click HERE
I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving Holiday and stuffed themselves! I traveled to NC and was the center of attention at the holiday family gathering. Everyone loved me and said what a great dog I was ... Heck Yeah! :)

I was exhausted after all the travel, and when I got home I was ready to just hang with my buddy Pickles. Here we are on a lazy, dreary Sunday morning. awwwwwww now why can't we all just get along like this... side by side and squishy faced!?

I hope you all are geared up for the holiday season. Please be safe if you are traveling, and enjoy your friends and family! I know I will!!

AND Don't forget to book your holiday pet care needs with Buckhead Pet Pals - the sooner you book the better! :)

Ciao for now!
Rocky

I'm a lucky boy

To contact us Click HERE

Hey Everybody -

  I'm a lucky dog you know.  During the school year and I'm at home during the day without any human company, I have my best buddy Mr. Pickles to hang out and play with.  And we really do play together.  My girls think its really funny to watch us playing, I just know its a ton of fun.  And in the summer time my brother and sister are home to hang with me, which makes me that happiest.

And on the occasion, I tell mom in the morning that I'm coming to the office with her.  That's where I get to see Catherine, Tiffany and play with Mr. Bill and my huge dog bone.  I mean, it really doesn't get any better than that.

Here's a pic of me and Mr. Pickles together.  Somedays when I come back from my midday walk with Laurie, Mr. P is hanging out on my bed waiting for me.  He might pretend like he doesn't enjoy me licking his head, but I know he loves it.

Hope all of you have as many great adventures during your days as I do!  And if you need a midday walk during the day like me, tell your humans to call Buckhead Pet Pals - they can help!

Peace out -
Rocky


23 Şubat 2013 Cumartesi

Graduation Generation

To contact us Click HERE


BackgroundInformation.
Graduation Generation is a K-12cluster-based initiative designed to better equip children, predominantly fromlow-wealth communities, succeed in school so that they graduate on time and areprepared for college and career. Graduation Generation brings Emory Universitytogether with Atlanta Public Schools and the nonprofit Communities In Schoolsas well as more than a dozen philanthropic and nonprofit organizations toachieve the following goals: 1) students achieve academically and attain highlevels of performance; 2) students graduate on time with college and careerplans in place; 3) students demonstrate self-determination and strive forpersonal development that includes leadership development; 4) students benefitfrom good health and safety necessary for academic success. Activities focus onthe students, teachers, parents, and communities served by the Coan MiddleSchool-Maynard Jackson High School Cluster in the Atlanta Public School System.Emory faculty, staff and students engage with Graduation Generation throughtheir academic courses, co-curricular programs, research projects and volunteerservice, employing both community engaged learning pedagogy and asset-basedcommunity development principles. Graduation Generation was launched with a $1million gift from Emory alumnus trustee Rick Rieder 83B and is additionallyfunded by grants and individual gifts. Visit www.oucp.emory.edu to learn more.


Formore information contact:BevinCarpenter- Graduation Generation Co-Project Manager, cell: 404-514-5511BarbaraCoble-Graduation Generation Co-Project Manager, cell: 770-598-7304

Sandy Springs Mission, Inc.

To contact us Click HERE
"Transferring families through education"
 The Sandy Springs Mission is a non-profit organization serving at- risk students in Sandy Springs for the past 12 years. Our purpose is to provide academic support and community resources for students of foreign-born parents. We strive to radically improve their overall academic performance, and ultimately lay the foundation for a brighter future.

Services OfferedAfter School enrichment programsLife Skills programsSummer campsPerforming Arts


To date, fifty-two student participants haveachieved their high school diploma!Your partnership will help us impact thelives of more students.
850 Mount Vernon Highway
Sandy Springs, Georgia 30327
(404) 943-1540
www.sandyspringsmission.org



Group Volunteer Opportunities with The Salvation Army

To contact us Click HERE

         Since its beginning, volunteers have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with The Salvation Army to provide help for all those in need. Often referred to as "the army behind The Army", volunteers play a crucial role in The Salvation Army's ability to provide quality social services.
We believe that you are a valuable asset to The Salvation Army’s efforts in meeting the changing needs of Metro Atlanta.
As a group, your skills will make positive and significant contributions to the communities we serve. Thank you for your interest and for thinking of our programs. We look forward to meeting you!


THANK YOU!
Since its beginning, volunteers have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with The Salvation Army to provide help for all those in need. Often referred to as "the army behind The Army", volunteers play a crucial role in The Salvation Army's ability to provide quality social services.
We believe that you are a valuable asset to The Salvation Army’s efforts in meeting the changing needs of Metro Atlanta.
As a group, your skills will make positive and significant contributions to the communities we serve. Thank you for your interest and for thinking of our programs. We look forward to meeting you!

Metro Atlanta Area Command LocationsRed Shield Services and Harbor Light Corps
400 Luckie Street NW Atlanta GA 30313

Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center
967 Dewey Street SW Atlanta GA 30310

Atlanta Temple Corps
2090 N Druid Hills Road NE Atlanta GA 30329

Atlanta International Corps
3771 Central Avenue Doraville GA 30340

Jonesboro Citadel Corps
130 Spring Street Jonesboro GA 30236

Marietta Corps
202 Waterman Street SE Marietta GA 30060

Lawrenceville Corps
3455 Sugarloaf Parkway Lawrenceville GA 30044

Atlanta Peachcrest Corps and Boys & Girls Club
3500 Sherrydale Lane Decatur GA 30032

Fuqua Boys & Girls Club
405 Lovejoy Street NW Atlanta GA 30313

Bellwood Boys & Girls Club
777 Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway NW Atlanta GA 30313

William Booth Towers
1125 Ponce de Leon Avenue NE Atlanta GA 30306

Salvation Army Warehouse
1070 White Street Atlanta GA 30310

To schedule volunteer events, contact:
Sarah Clem
Volunteer Coordinator
404-486-2961
sarah_clem@uss.salvationarmy.org

Georgia Shock Youth Basketball Organization

To contact us Click HERE


"Success is what happens when opportunity meets preparation"Georgia Shock Youth Basketball isa non profit youth organization, with the mission of improving the moral, physical,mental attitude, and spiritual well-being of young people. GA Shock Youth Basketballinstills leadership, responsibility, education, and good citizenship.  A community based organization serving at-risk youth by getting them off thestreet and on the court.

Main Activity: BasketballTournaments

Contact:James Parks, 678-754-8391georgiashock@gmail.com
Website:
www. GeorgiaShock.com
Volunteer Opportunities:
-         WebsiteDesign-         PublicRelations (Telemarketing, Direct Mail Campaign)-         AdministrativeAssistant (Data Entry, Record Keeping)-         Fundraising& Grant Writing


Zaban program collaboration with Georgia State University

To contact us Click HERE

Semi-Boot Camp Outdoor -An exercise program that includes  Mon. -Wed.- Fri. Times 10:00-11:00am  and 5:30-7:00pm: Ongoing long term. ( Taught by P.E. Major or Minor /Fitness background)1. Weighing in weekly and taking a blood pressure reading, this data will be kept at the Center.2. Walking laps around the park at ones on pace but timing that pace with the goal of increasing the pace.3. Stopping at a number of stations to complete a set of exercises that are given by an instructor.4. The instructor will be motivating and encouraging participants to keep increasing pace.
Basketball Drills & Skills for kids ages 8-14; Practicing the correct techniques: Tues.&Thur. 4:00-6:00pm :3months. (Taught by anyone that has played at least high school level basketball)1. Lay –ups left hand and right hand.2. Catching the basketball and pivoting.3. Setting a Pick and Roll.4. Passing ,dribbling , Shooting ect..
Tennis Lessons and Drills for Beginners and Intermediate:Mon.&Wed.4:00-6:00pm ; Ongoing long term.  (Can be taught by any student that plays at a 3.5-4.0 level)1.Teaching basic tennis strokes of serving, forehand, backhand, and volley.2. Topspin, slice and flat.3. Scoring and strategy.
Nutrition, Home Gardening and Healthy Cooking for Seniors, Adults and Teens –Fri. 11:30am -1:00pm and 5:00-7:00pm: Ongoing long term.( Taught by Health /Nutrition Major or Minor)1.Teaching and demonstrating alternative ways to cook without frying.2.Development of container gardens for the home.3.Teaching nutrition, with an emphasis on drinking more water.4.The the use of culinary herbs for health.
Tutoring, Homework help for Afterschool for ages 6-18. Mon., Tues., Wed.& Thur. Times  4:00-7 :00pm; Ongoing long term. (Taught by Education Major or Minor work study program would be perfect.)1.Tutoring for all subjects.
Chess for Kids ages 5-18.  Thursday , Time 4:00-6:0 0pm. Ongoing long term.  ( Taught by any student that is a Chess player)1.Teach how the pieces move.2.Teach chess strategy.3. Help students develop thinking skills and enjoy the game.
Soccer Skills and Drills for Youth 4:30-6:00pm. Ongoing long term. ( Taught by any student that has played at least high school soccer)1.Teach proper technique for kicking the ball.2.Teach the fundamentals of the game.
Bonsai class. (Taught by any student that has an interest in plants)1.Teach the Japanese Art of Bonsai.
Senior Program Special Trips and Events
Spanish for beginners.  ( Taught by a Spanish Language Major / Minor or Native speaker)


Contact
Debra E. Murray404-317-5012

22 Şubat 2013 Cuma

Diana's Story: We promised not to euthanize her.

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August 2006, Day of Rescue

September 2006
In August of 2006 Amazon CARES rescued a very ill dog from the streets.  We named her Diana, in honor of donors Diane & Greg Paschell who sponsored her.





October, 2006 Photo by Molly Wald of Best Friends Animal Society
During October of 2006 I responded to an inquiry about Diana, and wrote:  Diana is still in treatment for an eye infection and anal gland infection. Her treatment has been lengthy. She still has a bit of distrust in her eyes, which is heartbreaking. She craves human companionship, and she does not live in the kennel area. She roams free, and she sleeps on this spot on the porch of my house. At night she keeps our security guard company on his rounds!

Recently somebody abandoned a dog and her 5 month puppy at our shelter in the middle of the night. The puppy escaped, and we hoped it would be lured back by his mother. I told my employees to secure the mother to an outer fence post with this hope. Later I went looking for the dog and questioned my employees. They told me Diana was guarding her. What?

Sure enough, they had the two dogs attached by two leashes, and Diana stood her ground in the most stalwart fashion.

January, 2008Diana is the most loving, playful dog -- when she has her eye medication. She can not produce natural tears. We put natural lubricant in her eyes five times a day. She requires constant monitoring, therefore she will live out her best years at the Amazon Cares no-kill shelter!



December 2012
Over the years Diana's eye condition got much worse.  A Veterinary Opthamologist volunteered for Amazon CARES, and we made the decision to relieve the source of so much pain and irritation.  Diana was already blind, and the Veterinarian removed both of Diane's eyes.  Diane still accompanies our security guard on his nightly rounds, and she loves to bask in the sun, and then take refuge from the heat on the hard packed dirt underneath the Director's raised home on the shelter premises.  She has never been restricted to a kennel.

We made a lifetime promise to Diana.  We promised her a life with all her necessities are met, where she is walked several times a day and receives affection.  We promised not to euthanize her.  Please help us keep this promise.  We need your support now.



Sincerely,

Molly Mednikow

The Saddest Blog I've Ever Written - Redux

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This blog is reprinted from May 15, 2012
Our animal shelter where we cared for 50+ dogs has been completely destroyed. See video:



We relocated all animals into a treatment building that is built on stilts.   It was a very trying 2 months as the dogs were forced to live in a very crowded space.  Healthy, sick, small, large, puppies...all were forced to live together.  We always have promoted adoption, but it is not ingrained in the culture of Iquitos.  However, the flooding provided an added impetus to get the word out.  
We had a record number of adoptions in April and May, and now we are caring for just over 20 dogs.  Incidentally, we shelter cats as well, but at another facility, in-town at our Vet Clinic.  Our dog shelter is 30 minutes away by boat or land (currently only by boat, of course) from our in-town clinic.  We got an emergency grant of $4000  from the Fundación 30 Millions d'amis (30 Million Friends) of France , and our supporters stepped up also, helping us raise an additional $1200.
Last week we completed work on a new, smaller, shelter at the highest point of our property.  It is such a relief for the remaining animals to have space to roam again.  You can see these photos on Facebook.

The effort has nearly destroyed us.  We had to cancel our April Veterinary Trip.  We are currently $500 short on paying our bills this month.  Sadly, a matching grant Donor we depended on states that we misunderstood his original grant limitations.  We hope to receive the money promised to us, but that will not occur for another 6-12 months.
I have never earned a salary as the Founder or Executive Director of Amazon CARES.  I founded and supported Amazon CARES when I sold my part in my family's 125 year old jewelry business in 2005. Since 2004 I have supported CARES, but in late 2011 my money ran out.  I have enough to live on, but not enough to continue supporting CARES in the same manner.  Despite the fact that my travel to Peru will be severely curtailed, I am currently looking for full time employment to supplement my income and keep CARES alive.  Luckily, we have a wonderful Director in Peru and a wonderful, loyal staff (at least for now...if we can't pay salaries that would probably change).
We still run very active ABC programs, and thankfully, these programs and the medicines needed are paid for by the Brigitte Bardot Foundation.
It is very hard to get grant money for shelters, however.  The WSPA doesn't believe in sheltering, for instance.  They believe that long term solutions are found through active ABC campaigns and Humane Education.  We are very involved with both of these strategies as well.  I would challenge any international animal charity of our size to rival our Humane Ed program, which has continued despite recent challenges.
However, we believe sheltering is an essential component.  Many dogs are abandoned, especially litters of puppies, or dogs suffer from infections (mange, parasites) that can be treated easily.  We have seen enormous transformations from former, sickly street dogs to beautiful, healthy adoptable pets.  We are a no-kill shelter, incidentally.

As the flood waters reside we will need to continue rebuilding our shelter.  The one we constructed quickly is well built, but too small.   We may try to salvage a small part of our old shelter, but it is preferable to continue building another small shelter building on the highest land, adjacent to what we have already built.  

We recently rescued a dog found starving to death on a small patch of dry land and surrounded by water.  His owners had abandoned him.  Even as we have improved our adoption rates, there will continue to be a need for shelter for dogs such as this rescue dog.  He will heal and be adopted, but it will require months of re-hab.  We simply refuse to euthanize him, when he is a dog with a bright future as a member of somebodys family.
Funds are badly needed for reconstruction and for dog food.

I am sad to report that the survival of CARES is a matter of weeks, not months.  There is no other charity like ours in the region.  In a matter of a few years, much of the work we have done will have come undone.


Thank you for reading this blog.  I am extremely saddened to reveal this heartbreaking news.  If you can help us with a donation of any amount, we would be very grateful.  


P.S. December 16, 2012 - I can't believe we are facing such dire economic circumstances again, and I hate to use the pity card with our supporters.  Please remember that 90% of your donation goes directly to our programs helping animals.  Our outlook for 2013 is good, if we can just get past these few months before grant money comes in.  We are a tiny charity achieving BIG goals, and we are working on doing more strategic planning for the future longevity of the charity.

Molly Mednikow
Amazon CARES Founder

Keara's Holiday Miracle! An Adoption Tale!

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Donna and Dr. Kendall Bodkin of Hayden Pet Medical Center have volunteered for CARES in the Amazon.  Since then, they have been incredible supporters and friends to CARES.  We hope they return to Peru soon!  During their trip. Donna formed a bond with a very special and distinguished shelter dog, Keara.  Lucky Keara was adopted by the Bodkin family, and a smiling Donna retrieved Keara from the airport in Spokane!  It was quite a climate change for Keara, but she seemed to adapt very quickly!


"Beautiful picture of Keara playing in the snow! Recently adopted by the Bodkin's family, Keara is living a healthy and happy life in Idaho! We are truly grateful to the Bodkin clan!"
Molly Mednikow 










In November 2012 Keara celebrated her one year anniversary as a member of the Bodkin clan!

Looks like she is in the Christmas spirit!

Keara lived at our no-kill shelter in Iquitos for several years.  It breaks my heart to think that another shelter might have euthanized this beautiful girl.

The Bodkins have been huge supporters, and we are forever grateful.  I am reaching outside of our circle of supporters to ask that you "Chip In" $5 or more to help Amazon CARES survive into 2013, and so that our shelter dogs can thrive in a loving environment where all their needs are met.



Valentine's Day is for Animal Lovers! Join us!

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Valentine’s Day is for Animal Lovers


  Our Shop is Now Open!

Whether or not you have a human Valentine, if you have a pet, you already know what it is to have unconditional love on a year round basis.
Amazon Community Animal Rescue, Education and Safety invites you to join our virtual event “Valentine’s Day is forAnimal Lovers,” which will be a Facebook event during the month of February.
Please RSVP "yes" and show your support during February by earning donations for our animals simply by shopping online!
In partnership with We-Care.com, we will promote Valentine related items that can be purchased online from reliable, well known merchants, at no extra cost to the purchaser.  
Having recently won a $1000 Grant from We-Care.com, in which we generated over 10,000 valid tweets that were worth 10 cents each, we know the power of pennies, nickels and dimes in fundraising.
Also consider that every penny earned is equivalent to 3 pennies where we operate in the Amazon Jungle of Peru!  Currently we are raising funds to improve our no-kill shelter in Iquitos, Peru.
We hope to introduce new people to Amazon CARES and our vital work.  Perhaps not all of these people would normally donate through us, but they would consider making an online purchase using one of our links.
Will you support this unique event?  
Would you go a step further by serving on our Host Committee?  A member of the Host Committee commits to inviting at least ten friends and promoting our virtual event.
Please let me know by commenting below or replying to molly@amazoncares.org.  Be sure to grab a banner for your blog, Facebook page or website!





Sincerely,
Molly MednikowExecutive Director of Amazon CARES
Manuella Incoming Director of Amazon CARES