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Wednesday, January 30, 2013

SPOTLIGHT on Two Local Community Members and Businesses that are making a difference, Make sure to check them out, and Thank them! Support our Local Businesses


              Community members coming together to make a difference and share their talents and resources.

Terry Phillips, is a Mother, Community Member, Business Owner in Downtown Youngsville, Sister-in-Christ, and FRIEND!.  I was introduced to her and her Business, Full Circle-Youngsville  Full Circle Youngsville Facebook Page   a Coffee shop, that offers baked goods, cold beverages, Art display and sales, Books on display and for sale, and lots of community service and ministry opportunities.

She rents spaces in her shop to Local Artists, and plans events to give them a showcase and opportunities to be discovered by the Youngsville community and Business Owners.  She hosts Local Musicians and offers them a venue to perform their music and meet the community in a fun and informal setting.  She takes items on consignment when space allows.  She is always networking and promoting others and trying to help with any need she hears about, always looking for and sharing contacts to help others.  If you are thinking about or looking for something, ask her and she has something to offer to assist you or anyone in need.

If you haven't already discovered this Downtown gem, please go by there and meet Terry and listen to her amazing journey to-date, and what she KNOWS God is calling her to do with the amazing talents and skills he has blessed her and her children, CJ and Becca with to enhance the Body of Christ and the Youngsville Community.  The All In One Business Open House in Downtown Youngsville event on Saturday, February is being held in her shop and in the awesome Youngsville Wine & Beer Shop that shares that building, There Facebook page.  Owner, Vicki Baylus, is also a great creator of Wine baskets, she helps Youngsville discover and enjoy the best wines from all over the world.  They host local musicians for Live Music nights, they provide FREE tastings and a great social spot right in Downtown Youngsville.

Please stop in and see her and Thank her for helping out the Home-based,  Small Businesses and Craftier's and enhancing the Downtown Youngsville Area.  Look for ways and events you can utilize these two businesses.  Remember to check Downtown Youngsville for the products and services you desire.

OPPORTUNITY TO Serve:

Recently, Terry has shared another piece of her busy Walk with the Lord and her desire to be a good steward of all that God has blessed her and her family with; Talents, skills, their business and their home.  She has helped so many and is always trying to help anyone she hears could use a hand.  She makes the "Giving Tree" look selfish. 

Here is her posting from Facebook:  Pray about it and if you or someone, a group or another ministry you know can help, Please have them contact Terry and let her know what blessings are available and complete the Circle.

                  PLEASE SHARE THIS WITH ALL CHRISTIAN MINISTRIES.::Please pray for me last night i had a broken pipe, thank God outside. There were pipes outside We thought was insulated or ask someone about it- well never got done. Could be one large water bill. Please share this with your Church. I am trying to start a ministry in Youngsville. This old house needs repair. I need a wood stove installed or fireplace repaired. Heat pump someone stole . All piping checked and insulated. Electric was cut in shed also needs sheet rock and plumping to be a mini cottage. Then wood floor sealed. And some paint and cosmetic things. New or custom cabinets. The ministry is to focus on healing with arts and education. The name is Full Circle- out of Ezeleil- the Wheel !! Any youth groups or Churches that would like to adopt a mission please call me Terry 9195702222. God is good if he is pleased with this He will provide.!!! Peace to you all
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We are all working toward something and at some point even the most equipped and capable, need some assistance.  If you can help please do show and be on the look out for other community members, and/or businesses that go out of their way to participate and enhance the community please send me the information and I would love to showcase them and their business or ministry.

                         "Together We Can Make A Difference, and Make A Better Community"

Friday, January 18, 2013

Group Page on Facebook is reopened, come join us

I cleared out the page on Facebook and updated it.  I am asking everyone to rejoin if they are interested in participating and then share the group page to help us build up Interest and Active people.

The Page can be found at


Open to anyone that wants to share ideas, AND participate with planned activities that are to help the  community, churches, groups and individual families.  We want to do what we can to be apart of the solution to issues in our community and use our collective abilities, resources, skills, and talents to make a difference.


"Everyone has something to offer, if only a good word of encouragement and prayer" and everyone can share information and announcements to help get the word out.


If you have any questions, post a comment or Contact me.


Looking forward to seeing our membership build up of Interested and Active people.

Sunday, December 9, 2012

Will The Circle Be Unbroken????? Join the circle and help other "radiant people" find us

 A circle is the most primal and organic shape.  It is mentioned throughout historical text, artistic works, and many concepts incorporate the shape and its attributes.  A circle is a powerful image and often incorporated in icons and other graphical projects to show strength and completeness.  Even in therapeutic treatments and counseling a circle has beneficial uses.  The belief of the "Power of a Circle" crosses cultures and educational boundaries and religious and faith based theology.

I love the Latin word Radius, and when you think about it related to things or people involved with a circle it gives you an image like the Sun, with the Radiant arms expanding from the circle.  Oh how powerful when this imagine is embraced into the ambitions and desires of people and when they build things and groups based on the inspiration and power of the Circle how beautiful and efficient.  "Every point is the same distance from the center and each spoke or radii Radiates away from the center"  The central point (mission of the group) is the connection of all the spokes and they point to and radiate out giving support and encouragement as they receive from the center.

This is the vision and mission of Bright Minds, Helping Hands and Holy Heats, Cedar Creek Creative Cooperative and even my Business, Uniquely Organized and Utilized.com  because this is how I am and think, love and conduct myself.  Are you similar, when then join in and add to the circle of friendship, creativity and productivity.  If you want to join but don't know what you bring to the group, don't know how to be productive.  Call me and let's have a consult and map out all your attributes and find your radiance :)  it is there.... let's find it.   Email/message me, find me on Facebook, or visit the website and click on the contact tab. 


Some sources and examples of the use of Circles:

 Geography is all about circles,  The largest being the World/Globe. http://geography.about.com/od/understandmaps/a/greatcircle.htm

In history the first idea of a circle for many is "Stonehenge in Britain"  britainexpress.com/History/prehistoric_monuments 

For "American" history the circle image comes from the west... Wagon Wheel. http://mathforum.org/sanders/geometry/GP17Circle.html

As a symbol a circle signifies power:
Power_symbol


Therapeutic Option from DailyOM Nurturing Mind, Body & Spirit http://www.dailyom.com/articles/2006/3012.html

The Native Americans view of the Circle: Inspiration~ Power of the circle 

Social and Corporate groups embracing the idea of the circle in their structure and function: http://powercirclenetwork.com/


                                              "Together we can make a difference"
                                                 "LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE!!"

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Hello, again... coming back more Bright, Helpful, determined and energized ~&~

Well, it has been a while and as some of you already know many changes have taken place.  All is okay and will be for the better.  I am back and reorganized, energized and with more passion than before.  Our facebook page did not have enough interaction and posts to make conversion to the "New Format of groups"  I will try to relaunch it once we build up committed support for it, until then I am combining two ventures.  Bright Minds Helping Hands and Heart and Cedar Creek Creative Cooperative share many of the same missions and passions, some members and together both groups will be able to achieve the goals and be the designed blessing.

If you are on facebook go to the Cedar Creek Creative Cooperative page by typing it in the search box at the top or follow this link https://www.facebook.com/groups/104699236266816/  Click the join button on the top and post a little introduction,  (Who you are, what you do, your passion (helping out with...) if you are an artist or creative type what do you do (link to your page).  Message me with any questions or with specific projects to post for you.  If you have events tag Cedar Creek Creative Cooperative in your post. 

If you do Affiliate programs or link for link trades message me I will participate with you (as long as it is accordance with my stated mission and criteria).  And I will put a link on my blog (s) and pages.  If you are interested in being spotlighted and displayed in my booth  (on Facebook too) send me a message, pay through pay-pal $10.00 for 8 X 10 spot.

I am looking forward to reconnecting and building these groups and getting busy with the "Good work of life" Purposeful Productivity and Prosperity for all of us...  "Membership has its privileges".

Join for free now!  December 1st I am moving on to building every day..and opening these groups to the Public and membership will be $10.00 introductory, once we are rolling and completely established with the 10 pillars (Academic/Education, Accounting, Administrative, Creative/Development, Marketing/Promoting,) it New Memberships will be $25.00.

Thank you for joining and supporting me and the group and I am so excited for the Journey ahead.

Sincerely,

Dot Wiggins, Owner of @Uniquely Organized and Utilized
http://uniquelyorganizedandutilized.com

Founder of @Cedar Creek Creative Cooperative & Bright Minds Helping Hands and Holy Hearts

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Spotlight: */* Dot Wiggins, Personal Assistant and Multi-talented Professional */*

SPOTLIGHTING:  Dot Wiggins, Personal Assistant and Multi-talented Professional

Highly motivated and creative freelancer looking for clients and opportunities.  Fairly priced and well valued for the services and products offered.

Search for her on Facebook and see her postings in the Marketplace http://services.facebook.oodle.com/account/listing/active/


Also see her Uniquely Organized and Utilized blog

Call (919) 219-2650 to schedule an appointment to view the "showroom" or for her to come to your space.

Please help spread the word....

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Spotlight: Historical Recipes and Sandra Osborne, of Oxford,NC

A friend of mine, fellow Wife, and Mother,Student of life and higher education; Sandra Osborne of Oxford, NC and her blog and New endeavor "Historical Recipes" is today's Spotlight...

Please visit her blog, Historical Recipes as she has laid out her vision and writes very eloquently what it is she does, knows and wants to expand into.  She shares some great recipes, tips and information. Also, look for her, Sandra Osborne on Facebook and connect with her for more information. She and her blog and new endeavor are exactly what Bright Minds Helping Hands and Hearts is all about, and exactly what Cedar Creek Creative Cooperative is trying to collect and promote. 

If you are like Sandra and myself or know of someone who is, forward me their contact information, blog or website address and a paragraph or so about them and how you met or know them and I will contact them and compose a spotlight for them :).

Together we can make a difference in our families, neighborhoods, communities, States, and the World.
Utilizing and Sharing what we Know, learn, and possess.

What can you do or share?

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

SPOTLIGHT: Cedar Creek Creative Cooperative

Cedar's are so inspirational!  I love trees and nature, history, and tracing origins of things. Cedar of Lebanon, is mentioned in the Bible, and I love the "image" and visual definition throughout literature of a Cedar tree being "Trusted, Desired in times of trouble or discomfort, used as a "restoring place of peace and tranquity" as Thomas Cole writes and many have illustrated.

I love how the shape of the Cedar Tree is different that other trees.  With their bigger and more substancial trunks with branches far above the ground, this one "branches out from near to the ground, grows and spreads its branches, apparently simultaneously. (Up and out).

Oldest Cedar in Britan.

Thomas Cole's Cedar Grove in Catskill, NY by Jasper C.


Alot of the "spirit and inspiration" comes from my childhood and the way my parents, who were from New York near Catskill, lived and talked about their childhoods' and about my grandparents and other family members.  Our family is blue collar with ring around the collar, since many times throughout the years "time and personal comfort and image" was on no concern due to the necessary things that were more pressing.  When people were in need that was all that was needed to launch my parents into action.  Running through our house seeing if we had the items in our own household and then calling others to collect more items.  We never knew we were "low income or lacking things" because my parents carefully choose every sheet and item that came into our home.  We did not have fancy or unusable items "collections of items just because they were "valuable" our collectables were things we loved and could display when we weren't playing with them but our home was small and each child had a room mate and therefore had to consider the other.  My brother Amasa, was the older of the two brothers and I was the Oldest sister, and the Elder of the clan of 4 children.  My Sister Jennifer, was the "shadow" we all had to grow up under.  Especially at school, she overcame alot and was "Strange and annoying" with her obcession for homework and always wanting more work.  The "baby of the group, James Jr. was such a cute toddler and so moldable (until he became school aged)! but our parents drilled into our heads the power and the NECESSITY of cooperation, mutual partnerships and busy and helpful hands stay out of trouble.  We usually involved each other in our "projects" and still do to this day.  We consider family when we "come into a good deal or have an extra something, just as Daddy' rule #1~ taught us: "Family comes first and it is better to share an extra than saving it up, as nothing lasts forever".  My parents are liking walking talking scripture lessons and neither were ever glued to the book or spent much time in "Bible Study" but prayer was like breathing and that is where I come from.

As I grew up I found applying this philosophy to life and all relationships has both been challenging and somewhat costly but also brought some amazing blessings that would never had come to me, I only received the "diamond in the rough cause I got into something, chipping and chiseling and for the effort I gained assume "pearls of wisdom and a new friend/member of the Bright Minds,Helping Hands, and Hearts group.  As we worked and met people through our charitable activities, and civic projects like "Relay for Life" several other opportunities and partners were discovered in the "Business World" and a need for a Professional Organized branch of our like-minded and "big hearts" was developing and has now "Sprouted" 


Cedar Creek Creative Cooperative

Draws its name from the inspiration and power of its "branches". Several conversations with impressive people about a shared desire to see a return the "good ole' days" when people helped each other accomplish each other's respective goals. The "community and neighborhood" were tight and loving pockets of people that agreed in principles and methods and invested in each others dreams, homes, and lived together in harmony and prosperity.


Cedar = Longevity and Strength that is symbolic and beloved by local and far away onlookers

Creek = Streams from a larger and Faster body of knowledge and continues to flow and help nuturish and supply those that come to it and "draw" from its flowing, moving waters.

Creative = uses inspiration but is not bound by formal expectations or institutional rules and control.  Sometimes brand new images and ideas, other times refreshed or redesigned, but always free moving and available to enhance locations, and those that want to view and participate.

Cooperative = Everyone comes and shares and participates in the members projects, question/answer discussions and assistance requests.

Current Opportunities/Projects:
   Completing Crafts and recycle/repurposed items for sale at the Youngsville Flea Mart.

  Gardening & Canning/cooking ahead meals

  Coupon clipping bingo and swap

  Discounts & BOGO sharing and donating to collect items for campaigns.

  Book/CD/Games/Movie swap

  A,B,C  Marketing Parties and Campaigns:  Abilities, Artistians, Businesses, Barterer's, Crafters and Consultants sharing and cooperatively marketing opportunities and the products and services they provide.

Are you looking for a Tree to throw a rope in to swing for awhile near the "River of Life"?  Our branches are available... Comment below or look for us on Facebook "Cedar Creek Creative Cooperative".

























Thursday, February 3, 2011

For Hobby and "Just for Fun Because I Can to Necessity to be able to afford the fun

Now that we have to choose between a gallon of milk or a gallon of gas.  Cutting out recreational trips, entertainment and discretionary spending and skill having to get creative in making the ends meet are becoming more and more of a job. 

Clipping coupons, shopping around, using Farmer's Market and BJ's, splitting things with friends, bartering, recylcing and repurposing things from yardsales and Thrift stores.  Now something to put a little fun back into our lives without disrupting the delicate budget.  GROUPON, much like a coupon, you purchase discounts and then let your friends know about the awesome deal, if enough people purchase the great deal you get a reward for starting the savings "party".

Click Here to go to the groupon site and sign up :) and lets start saving together and how easy to organize social outings without alot of effort. 
Groupon

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Will You Answer the Call to Serve the Families of our Servicemen and Women

Men and Women join the military to "Answer A Call" of Responsibility and Duty.  They sacrafice in many ways and accept huge risks.  Their families also sacrafice and have accepted losses and risks.  It is not an easy "tour of duty" and there are long lasting effects in numerous areas and that is just for "peace time service".  Serving in "Times of Conflict and War" like we have been experiencing since 2000.  

Today the sacrafices are becoming "LIFE CHANGING' to the entire family.  Missing the "childhood and developing stages of children they have not even met.  Missing the milestones of their children that we all plan and look forward to, missing the birthdays, anniversaries, promotions at work, awards, of their loves ones.  Financial losses, losing their jobs, their spouse being stressed beyond human capabilities "serving the family as Mother and Father" without having a backup, assistance or support.  And then we have the "GOLD STAR" families that have given the ultimate sacrafice and have suffered the loss of their service member (and social network).  The care packages, letters and momentos stop.  Visits, phone calls and offers to help stop if not immediately soon after the funneral, when they should be at the highest frequency.

There are programs and ways to help but they need to be filled with PEOPLE, (Hands and Hearts) and Money for supplies, to help with expenses, Donations of items, scholarships, supplies for businesses, jobs, Friendships that are going to last and close the huge gap that the GOLD Star represents. Not that the support, encouragement and friendships can replace the member they lost, it can help and show them that it was not a gift given to no avail.  We remember and continue to appreciate and miss their loved one too.  These families are more than just part of our military community, they are part of our communities.  They purchase things from businesses, they attend schools and churches, 4H groups, Sports teams.  The are part of US and need to know we still care and that we will never forget either.

Will you Answer the Call to the GOLD STAR Families?? 
http://www.causes.com/causes/467491-united-protectors-of-fallen-soldiers?m=b4aa541e&recruiter_id=18440775


If you blog or have websites.. please post your own "Call TO Support" or Cut and Paste this one.  Look for the group on Facebook and make sure to mention this once a week.  Together we can glose the gap and Fill our ranks with Caring and Supportive People to show that their sacrafice is not forgotten. 

Tuesday, January 4, 2011

Spotlight On Community Service that is in the "Building and Development Phase"

Spotlight on a Bright Mind, Helping Hand and Heart I found on Facebook, we have never met, but seems like we should have been related. 
Check out this site and see if you can add 
Kimberly Webber Young and   

Liberty Bell Stables





to your list of "Favorite Charities and Groups to support".  If you read the vision and mission and think, "Man I wish something like this were available for....." donate in their honor to make sure someone else does not have to wish anymore, the can just search for Liberty Bell Stables, "where Change is in the Wind"

They are currently "Paving the Way to Hope". click here Pave the way to Hopeto donate and write your name on the wall.  Leave a legacy and help a neighbor raise the walls to a beautiful dream and a wonderful community resource.



If you know of other Bright Minds, Helping Hands and Hearts in the Area or that would be a good asset to our Community and are accessible online  send me the 5 W & H (Who, What they are, Where, When the opened or are opening, and how you know them, found them ect.  and the contact info and I will research it and spot light them if they are interested. 

Together we can Light the World and make it "A WONDERFUL PLACE TO LIVE".

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Do you have an Open Heart for Young people and an available bed or area in your home? Be A Host for CIEE for 2011-2012 School Year

Do you have a heart for Teenagers, desiring International experience? Would you like to experience a foreign culture up close and personal? Do you have an extra bed or space to put an extra bed in your warm and friendly home?

If yes, You could be the Host of an International High School Exchange Student with CIEE. We have applicants from various countries Brazil, China, Thailand, South Korea, Mongolia, Germany, Ukraine and many others will be coming in between now and May.

Please go to our website and read about what is necessary for being a Host Family and click on the "Register" next to Host Family.

http://www.ciee.org/highschool/host-families/being-a-host-family.html
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Would you like your High School Student to experience a foreign educational exchange experience in a foreign country? You can find information about this on here also.

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If you have questions or would like assistance in completing your application, or know someone who is interested in hosting call me or email me with the information and I can schedule an appointment to come and meet with you.

Dot Wiggins
Local Coordinator CIEE, Mid Eastern North Carolina
Cell (919) 219-2650
Email dotwigg@gmail.com

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

CIEE Families and Students Invite you to join us

CIEE Host Families and Students of Eastern North Carolina (Triangle area and surrounding areas) are planning a few events and invite you to join us:














Saturday, September 25th 5-9 pm. CIEE meets the Carolina Railhawks in Cary, NC... http://www.carolinarailhawks.com/


We will meet at the stadium at 4:45pm to assemble our group and meet everyone and enter as a group. We will be wearing Navy Blue and Red shirts will be the coordinators. Meet and Greet with the team starts at 5pm, personal pictures are allowed and then the game starts at 7pm. Cost is $7.oo per person. Please RSVP by email dotwigg@gmail.com payment confirms your reservation, send payment by paypal :DOROTHY WIGGINS, (NO CREDIT CARDS!, must use bank account or paypal acct transfer) or mail check to CIEE Railhawks game 120 New Castle Ct, Youngsville, NC 27596 by September 18th!





November 20th International Education Exchange and Cultural Fair and Conference. We are hosting a fair and conference at the Smithfield Agriculture building in Smithfield, NC from 4pm until 7pm. Several exchange students will be performing music, dance, and theater from their countries. Their will be games, displays, food samples, and business opportunities that impact and service the International Community. The world is really alot smaller when we look at all the similarities and technology resources that are available today to bridge the gap. We can easily travel around the world in a day and on this evening the world will be seen in a few hours. Spaces are still available for families/groups/mission trips to showcase their international trips and work abroad, heritage or research projects and for vendors/business/ministries to showcase their opportunities. $20.00 for us to setup tables, include business card ad in our advertisements and program, or $10.00 for space to setup your own tables and for line inclusion in advertisements and program. RSVP your space and needs to dotwigg@gmail.com and confirm with payments through paypal :DOROTHY WIGGINS or mail to International Fair and Conference RSVP 120 New Castle Ct, Youngsville, NC 27596. Deadline is November 1st.

Saturday, August 14, 2010

Exchanging can lead to alot of Laughter...

Part of Hosting an International High school Student is to allow them to show you about them, their culture and abilities. Kwon told us in his application that he loves music, plays in his choir and praise band and church and likes to play piano, guitar, and other musical instruments. So this morning, our 1st real day together as a family, we broke out our keyboard and ask him to play for us. which he eagerly did, and then Chris decided to try it and well hence the laughter! Our keyboard is the full functioning kind and plays itself (halleluah!!) and Chris started pushing the autoplay buttons and many of the songs Kwon knew and he grabbed his Japanese flute and began accompanying Chris and the keyboard. Good times can be so simple and yet yield learning and alot of enjoyment for all.

Enjoy the Show :)!.


The Educated Experienced International Student willing to share his musical abilities.

The musically disadvantaged "Host" Dad attempting to play

Come Meet Kwon from South Korea and consider hosting



Many of the students have Arrived!!! many are coming in the next few weeks to start they full school year (10 month plan) others will arrive in January for the (5 month plan). Some students will need/request a move and will need new families so finding host families is a year long process. But, there are ways to be involved without being the "HOST" family (where the student lives while being here and attending school). You could have the student visit with you for a weekend or a special event or dinner, or attend a special event or dinner with our group. These students are 15-18 and just like our kids in many ways, they like to play sports (soccer, baseball, tennis, basketball and football) many want to try things they do not get to do in their countries, they play instruments, laugh, joke and love life.

Come and meet Kwonneung "Kwon" for short from South Korea. He is 15 will turn 16 in February. He will be attending Louisburg Highschool and wants to play soccer and basketball. He plays piano, and guitar, japanese drums and other instruments. He is Christian, his mom is a pastor in South Korea. The family he was going to be placed with could not be processed completely in time due to the background checks appeal process that are required with CIEE. Therefore my family is hosting him until we can find a family in the Louisburg area so he can remain in the Louisburg Highschool where is host family had started telling him about and where he and his family had started researching. Call me or email me and we can set up something. He is very anxious to start making friends and meeting kids his age at his school.

****Current Needs**********

Fully willing and committed families that can commit to hosting students is the South Johnston High area (Benson and Four Oaks area) and Rosewood areas. We have had families complete the applications asking to host students, had the students assigned, and make contact with the families and begin preparing to come to their homes and then while the student was in orientation (only 2 days before the student is to arrive to the host families) the families contacted us and expressed a desire to "cancel" their placement. We thankfully have previous host families and "welcoming families" just incase something like this happens but these families are only able to welcome the child from the airport and give them a warm and welcoming place to stay a get use to American living for 2 weeks while we find another premenate family. One family in the Rosewood area, hosted 2 students last year, and have been awesomely supportive to other host families agreed to host one of these students and post poned travel plans and dad had to get comfortable to having a teenage boy in the home with his teenage daughter, but they made the arrangements needed so that they could greet this young man and help him until his new family is found so that he could start school and begin his Journey to learning about America without delay because of circumstances beyond anyones control. Local coordinators cannot express how much we appreciate our host families and especially ones like this family that are there for these students and will make slight compromises and sacrafices for these students.

If you can commit to welcoming these students into your hearts, homes, and families for the remainder of the school year. You provide them a bed (they don't not have to have a separate bedroom if the child is within 5 years of age of them (at least 10) and same sex (no coed) sleeping arrangements. The students usually like sharing a room for the companionship and similarity of home (many have siblings). Meals, (some, because the students like to share their cultures foods and cooking, also if you eat out they have their spending money.) We suggest treating them like you would any visiting family member. As the adults and "Guardians" you would provide supervision and decision making authority of day to day activities to keep the child safe and behaving appropriately and in accordance with rules. You have support and mediation services with your local coordinator and our Team Leader Joy Gorman and if it is above her authority or abilities or you or the student is not happy CIEE also has support staff. In exchange for your willingness to work with the international student and extend your hospitality you receive alot of admiration from the student and their family. Their notes and little gifts also make me cry. You and your family enjoy experiencing and learning a new language, culture and culinary skil while you help the student learn yours by just talking and allowing them to participate in the things you do everyday. Although there is no payment for hosting, you can claim a $50.00 tax credit for each month you host a student.

If you are interested call or email me or check out the website: www.ciee.org/hs/host if you are ready to start your Hosting experience click on the register and complete the application by answering all the questions about yourself, spouse, family, home and typical weekday and weekend routines. We will upload pictures when we come out to meet you if you need assistance with that. But, please confirm background checks on anyone 18 or older living in the home and click the submit button and someone in your area or Joy Gorman will call and schedule an interview. If you have more questions or want to reach her, she is available at (919) 830-9194 or through email aprayerpartner@msn.com


2. I you or anyone you know has laptop computers that the students can purchase for reasonable prices or that can be loaned to them to use please contact me.

3. Kwon was not able to bring his guitar with him and enjoys playing in the praise band at home and another student really wants to learn to play the guitar and kwon could teach him and others to play if they had guitars to use. If you or someone you know has 2 guitars that we can borrow or know of good guitars for a reasonable price please email me or call me.

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Hosting Makes the World seem smaller and friendlier




We are the World and we are similar in alot of ways and hosting and being an exchange student is a great way to see this. And once you see the we are all hoping and trying to make a difference you have relationship and bridges to cross the great divide.


Tis the season of International learning experiences, many students are preparing to come to the US or are here awaiting placement into homes of those willing to share and show the students what America has to offer. The students come to attend school for the school year, participate in clubs and sports, join in on youth groups and other things that teens do. They come from all over the globe, but a large number come from Germany, Russia, Thailand, South Korea, and China. Both boys and girls age 15- 18 apply to the program, submit to testing, SLEP to determine their level of understanding of the English language and they write the most passionate personal letters about themselves, their family and their desire to come to the US.

If you would like more information see the website; www.ciee.org/hs/host or contact me and we can discuss hosting in more detail and complete your application and submit your information for a background check and get the process started to match you with a student.

Dot Wiggins
Local Coordinator in North Carolina
(919) 219-2650
dotwigg@gmail.com

If you are ready to apply, go to the website www.ciee.org/hs/host select "HOST FAMILY" and click "REGISTER" completely fill out the application, making sure to fill all the blanks, for children or retired/unemployed people enter "Student/unemployed/retired in the occupation blank. and confirm all the adults for background checks and I or someone in your area will be in touch. In the blank that asks "How did you hear about the hosting opportunity" please enter Dot Wiggins blog or Facebook.

Please share your hosting experiences here and let us know where you are located, we may plan a trip to visit :). If you are planning "field trips or tours with your students and can include more please let us know too, we might be able to join you.

Happy Hosting.... Lets make the world smaller and more friendly by "Opening our homes and hearts to international students".

Sunday, March 28, 2010

Nutrition to include in your day to impact your health

This is one of the many helpful and insight articles in the REX Cancer Center Cancer Prevention & Detection Tool Kit

10 Super Foods to Include in your Day...........

1. Omega-3 Rich Foods: Dietary omega 3 fatty caids, found in both fish oil and flaxseed, may prohibit the growth of turmors in colonrectal, breast and prostate tissue. In addition, most marine-derived omega 3 fatty acids are also packed with protein, B vitamins, and selenium.

Serving sizes, 3 ounces of fish, 2 teaspoons of flaxseed and 1 ounce of nuts and/or beans.

Sources: wild salmon, tuna, sea bass, oysters, walnuts, soybeans, wheat germ, flaxseed (crushed or pressed)

2. Crucifferous vegetables: THis family of vegetables contains phytochemicals (chemicals found in plants) which help prevent cancer and boost the immune system and, in addition, are loaded with fiber to aid in cardiovascular health.

Serving Size: 1/2 cup

Sources: Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, brussel sprouts, bok choy, kale


3. Berries
4. Yogurt with Active cultures * to receive the health benefits MUST be active cultures!*
5. Legumes (Beans)
6. Citrus fruits
7. Red and Pink Fruit
8. Tea (Green and Black)
9. Dark Green Leafy and Organge Vegetables
10. Whole grains


Do you see with this is headed, Nature, colors, and healthy choices hold healing powers for many of the illnesses and diseases of man.

For your own copy for the full article and the REX Cancer Center Cancer Prevention & Dection Tool Kit; come to any Bright Minds event or come by our call me and schedule a time to come by our office in Youngsville and pick it up.

Also if you have questions or concerns about your health or Cancer risk factors, see our Friends at Rex Healthcare.

For a general nutritional consultation at any Rex Wellness Center or visit rexhealthcare.com

For more information about other healthcare issues or Cancer Center appointments Check out their website: rexhealth.com/cancer

General Health: Rexhealth.com
or unchealthcare.org

North Carolina Comprehensive Cancer Program nccancer.com

American Cancer Society cancer.org
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cdc.gov
National Cancer Institute cancer.gov
Smoke Free smokefree.gov

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Business Expo-Youngsville, NC

Local Business Expo

at the Community house across the street from Olde Liberty Golf & Country Club
100 Commonwealth Drive
Youngsville, NC 27596
Direct: (919) 645-9798

http://www.OldeLiberty.com
http://www.OldeLibertyGolf.com

March 20th, Saturday 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m.

Door Prizes, Special offers and deals... Bring a friend and get entered into a drawing for a $25.00 Sheets Gift card.

We still have a few spots unreserved for vendors, business owners or artisians, email your business card information and a description of your business and I will contact you. Flyers will be prepared and circulated with all the participants listed by March 15th. Vendors setup Saturday from 1 until 1:45, doors open at 2pm.

Spread the word.. have your friends bring the flyer or email to enter you into a drawing. We will do these monthly with different businesses and themes, seminars and other fun things so check back often. We are also organizing an Expo for Chesapeake, VA if interested in more information email me...

Together we can make a difference.

Dotwigg@nc.rr.com Subject: Business Expo-Youngsville

Monday, March 8, 2010

An Awesome Local "Bright Mind and Helping Hand and Heart"

This weekend my family and I volunteered at Basic Needs Ministry Food Pantry, PUBLIC library and thrift store in Garner, NC. This place is amazing and is a stellar example of what Bright Minds, Helping Hands and Hearts want to be, parnter with and help encourage more organizations and individuals to support.

With a little thought alot of effort and heart this group is changing lives in their community, although their service area is limited, it is identified as a high need area and efforts like this have a ripple effect and their benefit can reach far outside the service area with just a little help, encouragement and support.

My husband and I sat inside the computer area and looked up and labeled books for the library that has been organized with mostly DONATED!!! books. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing all these books from every genre, Classical Literature, foreign language literature, German, French, Spanish, LOTS of Romance novels, mystery, SCI-FI they have many STAR TREK novels, the Left Behind series. Videos!!! hundreds of them.

My 14 year old son and our 17 year old Exchange student from Thailand were among the OLDEST "youth" volunteers. They carried the boxes of books from storage to us, and from our labeling area to the library shelves. They helped shelve thrift store items, videos, and anything they were asked. These kids who were volunteering were awesome, hardworking for minimum of 4 hour shifts.

If the "heart benefits" were not enough for helping out, this group is part of the "HELPING HANDS NETWORK", "GIVE A DAY GET A DAY AT DISNEY" campaign, where in exchange for a day of service to a registered charity EACH volunteer receives a certificate for a free ticket to a Disney Theme park, approx. at $59-$99.00 value (depending on the park selected, Disney Land or Disney World parks).

They take donations and need volunteers to further their service to the Johnston and Wake County areas. It is a quick hour drive from Franklin county off the beltline (440 to I40, off Hwy 42). See the website for exact address and directions and more details about the work they do. http://www.4042needs.org

Please pray for this group and the coordinator, Ronald Still cw_rls@bellsouth.net


Join them and helpout anyway you can, share their information and get the word out about such a great work being done in our local area that can make a huge difference. We are definitely going back to help out, and have adopted this as "our charitable group to support, encourage and promote". All of donations that use to go to Good Will are now going to them.

If you have clothes, books, videos to be donated call me or drop them by the house and put them in the box on the front porch.