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EDU_TAINMENT WITH BE THE STAR YOU ARE! RADIO

LIVE on Wednesdays from 4-5pm PT, be entertained, informed, amused, and educated on StarStyle-Be the Star You Are!. Then be inspired and motivated on

Sundays from 3-4pm PT, it’s Express Yourself! Teen Radio with our Be the Star You Are! star teen hosts and reporters.

Express Yourself orange 72x24 banner-1 2

You’ll meet authors, actors, artists, activists, musicians, poets, scientists, educators, and other creatives. Enjoy our upbeat, authentic, and fun radio parties on the Voice America Network Empowerment Channel or wherever you like to listen.

Visit https://www.StarStyleRadio.com for our line-up of guests.

DIRECT LINKS

Positive Results: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/positive-results

How to Help: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/how-to-help

http://hosted.verticalresponse.com/672296/3d7852fadd/288055965/b58f5480cb/

Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3
PO Box 376
Moraga, California 94556
US

A Year to Remember and Forget!

Posted by

Felix Assivo on March 11, 2021

Empowerment

MIRACLE MOMENT®

“You will be remembered forever by the tracks you leave.” Navajo saying

A MESSAGE FROM FOUNDER/EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CYNTHIA BRIAN

The one-year anniversary of the global pandemic lock-down has arrived. It will be remembered as a year of fear, sadness, grief, unemployment, civil unrest, political polarity, racial discrimination, global natural disasters, online learning, myriad business closings, mask wearing, sheltering-in-place, social distancing, and the devastating Covid-19 virus. These are twelve months that we all want to forget.

Yet, amidst the destruction, devastation, and death, heroes have emerged. Essential personnel including medical staff, store employees, firefighters, police, postal workers, drivers, construction, maintenance, transportation, and utility workers, farm laborers, repair technicians, TV and radio employees, restauranteurs, and many other persons showed up to jobs despite the risks. Teachers pivoted to teach on-line classes as parents scrambled to help their children with this new mode of education. People who could work from home transitioned to performing their tasks from bedrooms, basements, and kitchen tables. We will remember and commemorate their dedication and kindness for years to come.

One thing is clear.

We have all been in this together although apart.

At Be the Star You Are!®, with all in-person events cancelled, we pivoted to increasing, growing, and managing our virtual programs including the Star Teen Book Review Team, our two radio broadcasts, and assisting with disaster relief, despite minimal donations and financial loss. Our programs have helped thousands, returned amazing results, and been extremely successful.

Everyone is ready to get back to some semblance of normalcy. It is heartbreaking that over 525,000 Americans have died from the disease. As vaccinations roll out, infection rates will decline, and we will once again be able to gather. Getting vaccinated is not a political statement. Both former Republican President Trump and sitting Democratic President Biden were both vaccinated in January. It is critical that all Americans follow suit to overcome this deadly disease.

My hope is that every individual will understand the importance of getting vaccinated as soon as it is available. Even after vaccination, we must still be diligent, wear a mask, and practice social distancing until herd immunity has been accomplished. A welcome pronouncement from the CDC this week exclaimed that those who have had both doses of the Pfizer and Moderna or the single dose of Johnson and Johnson may get together indoors with one another. Hurray for the vaccines!

2021 may also become a year to be remembered as the next baby boom. I’m calling it the year of Covid kids. It’s been a full year since I’ve seen my daughter and six months since seeing my son and their spouses. Now that I have been vaccinated, I can’t wait for a real hug. Most young couples I know are currently pregnant. Like Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, my children have announced that they are both expecting baby girls this summer. What a gift of new beginnings.

Joy and strength emerge from adversity. Let us all do our part to bring a smile to another and peace to our planet. It is almost spring, a time of rebirth and renewal.

What tracks have you left this year? Leave a legacy. Make a difference. Forget and Remember.

Sending virtual hugs and lucky shamrocks for St. Patrick’s Day.

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

DONATE: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

BE THE STAR YOU ARE! NAMED a 2021 TOP NONPROFIT&l

Thanks to our volunteers, supporters, donors, and community Be the Star You Are!® is one of the first charities of 2021 to be named a TOP NON PROFIT. Congratulations to all,. Read reviews and witness what people are saying about BTSYA! https://greatnonprofits.org/org/be-the-star-you-are-inc

Be the Star You Are!® has also earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from Guidestar/Candid: https://www.guidestar.org/profile/94-3333882

SIX SKILLS FOR READING COMPREHENSION

It may seem like reading is a straightforward task that is easy. Actually, you use many different skills together. Together these skills lead to the goal of reading which is reading comprehension or understanding what you have read.

Reading comprehension can be challenging. Below are six essential skills needed to be able to comprehend what you have read. When kids have trouble with any of these, they can have trouble understanding what they are reading.

1. Decoding is vital in the reading process. Kids use this skill to sound out words they have heard before but have not yet seen written out. The ability to do that is the foundation for other reading skills.

Decoding relies on phonemic awareness. Phonemic awareness lets you hear individual sounds in words (known as phonemes). It allows kids to play with sounds at the word and syllable level. Decoding also relies on connecting sounds to letters. Grasping the connection between a letter(s) and the sounds they typically make is important in “sounding out” words.

2. Fluency. Kids need to instantly recognize words to be able to read fluently. Fluency speeds up the rate at which they can read and understand.

Sounding out or decoding every word will take a lot of effort. Word recognition is the ability to recognize the whole word instantly by sight.

3. Vocabulary. To understand what you are reading, you have to understand most of the words in the text. Strong vocabulary is a key part of reading comprehension. Kids can learn comprehension through instruction but also everyday experience and also reading.

4. Sentence Construction and Cohesion. Understanding how sentences are built and understanding the connection between ideas within and between sentences (cohesion) are important for understanding what one is reading.

Knowing how ideas link up in the sentence helps kids get meaning from passages and entire texts. Coherence is the ability to connect ideas to other ideas in a piece of text.

5. Reasoning and Background Knowledge. Most readers relate what they’ve read to what they know. It’s important to have background knowledge. They also need to “read between the lines” and see the meaning when it’s not spelled out literally.

6. Working Memory and Attention. When kids read, attention lets them take in information from what they are reading. Working Memory allows them to hold on to that information and gain meaning and knowledge form what they are reading. Self-monitoring is also important as kids need to know when they do not understand something.

Stephanie Cogeos is the Coordinator of the Star Teen Book Review Team.

Read the reviews at www.BTSYA.org

“Read, lead, succeed! To be a leader, you must be a reader!”

MAY THE ROAD RISE UP TO MEET YOU

No one knows exactly where the beloved Irish blessing “May the Road Rise Up to Meet You” came from. Some trace it back to St. Patrick because it is similar to his other writings. This blessing was originally an Irish prayer, first written in the Irish Gaelic language and then translated into English.

In Ireland, people have a deep appreciation for all things nature and outdoors. The Celts often used wind, sun and rain as symbols, or to show how God is connected with His people. In the 4^th century, St Patrick used the green shamrock as a metaphor to explain the Holy Trinity as he converted the Irish to Christianity. The word comes from the Irish seamrog, meaning young clover. It is the unofficial flower of Ireland. Wearing a shamrock on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, has been a tradition.

Karen Kitchel who penned two chapters in the book, Be the Star You Are! Millennials to Boomers Celebrating Gifts of Positive Voices in a Changing Digital World, is the Kindness Coordinator volunteer with BTSYA. She serves meals to the homeless and is a volunteer teacher, writer, job coach, and mentor. www.scatteringkindness.com

“Communicate, collaborate, innovate.”

EDU_TAINMENT WITH BE THE STAR YOU ARE! RADIO

LIVE on Wednesdays from 4-5pm PT, be entertained, informed, amused, and educated on StarStyle-Be the Star You Are!. Then be inspired and motivated on

Sundays from 3-4pm PT, it’s Express Yourself! Teen Radio with our Be the Star You Are! star teen hosts and reporters.

Visit https://www.StarStyleRadio.com for our line-up of guests.

SHOPPING?

We have suggestions for you to shop, save, and stay safe. Please use these web sites for all of your shopping essentials.

1. AmazonSmile donates .5% of purchases https://smile.amazon.com/ch/94-3333882

2. Discounted books at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shops/be_the_star_you_are_charity

3. Giving Assistant: Shop. Earn. Give! Use Giving Assistant to earn cash at 3500+ popular online stores :https://givingassistant.org/np#be-the-star-you-are-inc

4. Shop at over 1300 stores on IGIVE: http://www.iGive.com/BTSYA

5. Buy “Read, Lead, Succeed” black tanks and books at StarStyle® Store: http://www.starstylestore.net/

6. Are you a gamer, lover of new software, or other digital content? Buy all of your favorites at Humble Bundle. http://ow.ly/cYs130iN6n4

STAY SAFE! WEAR A MASK!

DIRECT LINKS you can use for Be the Star You Are!®

Positive Results: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/positive-results

How to Help: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/how-to-help

Remember and Forget. Leave a legacy. Wear green.

Erin go Bragh!

Happy St. Patrick’s Day.

For 2021: PLEASE make a DONATION through PAYPAL GIVING FUND and PAYPAL with 100% going to BTSYA with NO FEES: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

THANK YOU!

May you find your pot of gold at the end of the rainbow! Health and Happiness.

Be the Star You Are!501 c3 charity

PO Box 376

Moraga, Ca. 94556

All We Need is Love

Posted by

presspass on February 12, 2021

Empowerment

All You Need is Love!

Happy Valentine’s Day

MIRACLE MOMENT®

“All you need is love

All you need is love

All you need is love, love

Love is all you need”

The Beatles

A MESSAGE FROM FOUNDER/EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CYNTHIA BRIAN

February is American Heath Month and Black History Month. It also celebrate two significant holidays, Valentine’s Day and Presidents’ Day.

American Heart Month encourages us to take care of our hearts by motivating individuals to adopt healthy lifestyles to present heart disease.

Black History Month began in 1926 to celebrate Negro History Week because the birthdays of both Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglas, two Americans who shaped African American history were on February 12 and February 14th. In 1976, President Gerald Ford launched Black History Month.

Valentine’s Day, with its third century roots in the Roman Empire emboldens us to share the love. The Roman festival of Lupercalia, which celebrated the coming of spring and included fertility rites and other activities morphed into a minor Western Christian feast day honoring a Christian martyr named Saint Valentine. Today it is a commercial celebration of affection, love, and romance.

Presidents’ Day, originally established in 1885 to recognize George Washington, has since 1971’s’s Uniform Monday Holiday Act, been a three day weekend honoring all Presidents.

The single message that I understand from all of these commemorations is the necessity for all of us to increase our love quotient. The times have been tough and everyone has been challenged. People are fatigued. We all are looking forward to hugging our loved ones again.

This month share your love in safe, simple ways. Love is more than romance. Everyone craves appreciation, attention, and approval. Write a note to a friend. Pick up the phone. Smile at a stranger. Leave flowers for a neighbor. Offer a compliment. Congratulate a success. Make a donation to charity. (We hope you’ll chose Be the Star You Are!®)

And don’t forget self-care. It may be the most important love of all.

For an hour of power focusing on health at home and staying safe as you navigate the pandemic, vaccine, and life, tune in to StarStyle ®-Be the Star You Are!® self-care special on the Empowerment channel, https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/128331/health-at-home-prune-and-plan-vaccine-rollout

To find other ways to share the love and survive the pandemic happily, read on.

Remember, love always wins, kindness always prevails, and smiles keep us happy.

Wishing you a very loving February. Wear your mask, keep your distance, and be safe and sound.

Sending virtual hugs,

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

DONATE: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

SCATTERING VALENTINE KINDNESS

By Karen Kitchel

We often remember our spouses, kids, or special friends on Valentine’s Day. But how about reaching folks who may not know what it’s like to feel special? Keep it simple. Pick up a bag of little chocolate hearts and put them in your pocket. Wearing your mask, when you are out for a walk or going to an appointment, look for someone whose holiday you can brighten. Maintain social distancing, smile, and say “Here’s a little treat for you, CATCH, and have a Happy Valentine’s Day!” Toss the candy gently while you scatter Valentine kindness.

WELCOME TO NEW EXPRESS YOURSELF! REPORTER, DIYA

Be the Star You Are!® is thrilled to welcome our newest teen reporter to Express Yourself!™ Radio. Diya Hituvalli is a junior from the Bay Area. She is passionate about technology, speech, literacy, women-empowerment, and business. Her eclectic interests include mindfulness, exploring other cultures, and fashion.On Express Yourself!, her segment is called Silver Lining where she discusses elements of life with added humor. Tune into her debut show on Valentine’s Day where she offers the history of the celebration along with humorous trivia at https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/128618/valentines-day-and-relationship-building

HAPPILY SURVIVING THE PANDEMIC: Two Teens Offer Tips

If you’ve been sheltering-at-home, doing on-line school, and missing getting together with friends and family, two Be the Star You Are!® volunteers who are also reporters on Express Yourself! Teen Radio, Nihal Gil and Andrea Smith, spotlight how you can make this time a very happy and exciting memory. Try bringing a positive outlook, these tips are not just for teens but for anyone who wants to stay upbeat and happy during these trying times. Meet our youth reporters: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio

Nihal Gil offers activities that interest him and keep him excited. Hopefully they will encourage you as well.

Play sports as it is important to stay active. His favorite sport is golf which he finds relaxing.
Spend time with family. On the weekends, watch movies together or play board games.
Volunteer to help your community.
Game online with friends, cousins, and others to socialize safely and laugh more.

Nihal Gil is a reporter on Express Yourself! Teen Radio with a segment called Spark the Interest. As a 16 year old sophomore at Turlock High School where he plays varsity golf, is involved in Key Club, and expresses his love for music by playing piano. He teaches STEM/Robotics to elementary students and has won an award for Outstanding Community Service. His goal is to spark in interest for health and wellness for teens globally. https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2014/express-yourself

Andrea Smith, presents fun, creative ways to hang out with friends safely during the pandemic. You can listen to a full hour of her tips at Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/128497/how-to-survive-happily-during-the-pandemic

Socially distanced picnics! Set up a hangout at the beach or other nature place and have each person bring their own meal with their favorite foods! This is a great way to see your friends and eat delicious food all while staying socially distanced and safe!
Socially distanced yoga! Sick of staying in your room during virtual school or work? Plan a yoga day with your besties to relieve your daily stresses and anxiety. Any park or beach would be the perfect location and of course staying 6 feet apart!
Socially distanced painting session! Feeling like getting creative during quarantine? This is a perfect way to hang out with friends while doing something to spark your creative juices. Plan to meet in either a park or other outdoor location while staying socially distanced to have an awesome time!
Birthday drive-through! Is it your best friend’s birthday coming up?! Plan a surprise birthday drive through for your friend and make him/her feel extra special on their big day! Have each person bring a gift and a card and leave it at the front porch of the birthday girl/boy.

Andrea Smith is a senior at Santa Margarita Catholic High school and will be attending Georgetown University in the fall of 2021. She loves the outdoors and is always up for a new adventure. She is extremely passionate about global politics through her devotion to Model United Nations. Andrea finds beauty in the simple things in life, is an avid swimmer, and also loves to share ways on how to live a happy and healthy lifestyle! She is a reporter for In the Spotlight and host on Express Yourself Teen Radio and looks forward to a career as a media personality. https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2014/express-yourself

SHARING THE LOVE: NEW WORLD—A Choral Production from St. Marys Glee CLUB

Despite the Covid-19 pandemic, widespread fires, power outages, political unrest, and cold and windy outdoor rehearsals, the Glee Club was able to come together to create this virtual choir video of Björk’s New World. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=51faeIB67so

EDU_TAINMENT WITH BE THE STAR YOU ARE! RADIO

LIVE on Wednesdays from 4-5pm PT, be entertained, informed, amused, and educated on StarStyle-Be the Star You Are!. Then be inspired and motivated on

Sundays from 3-4pm PT, it’s Express Yourself! Teen Radio with our Be the Star You Are! star teen hosts and reporters.

Visit https://www.StarStyleRadio.com for our line-up of guests.

SHOPPING?

We have suggestions for you to shop, save, and stay safe. Please use these web sites for all of your shopping essentials.

1. AmazonSmile donates .5% of purchases https://smile.amazon.com/ch/94-3333882

2. Discounted books at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shops/be_the_star_you_are_charity

3. Giving Assistant: Shop. Earn. Give! Use Giving Assistant to earn cash at 3500+ popular online stores :https://givingassistant.org/np#be-the-star-you-are-inc

4. Shop at over 1300 stores on IGIVE: http://www.iGive.com/BTSYA

5. Buy “Read, Lead, Succeed” black tanks and books at StarStyle® Store: http://www.starstylestore.net/

6. Are you a gamer, lover of new software, or other digital content? Buy all of your favorites at Humble Bundle. http://ow.ly/cYs130iN6n4

STAY SAFE! WEAR A MASK!

DIRECT LINKS you can use for Be the Star You Are!®

Positive Results: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/positive-results

How to Help: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/how-to-help

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

GREAT NON PROFITS REVIEWS: https://greatnonprofits.org/org/be-the-star-you-are-inc

GUIDESTAR/CANDID: https://www.guidestar.org/profile/94-3333882

For 2021: Make a DONATION through PAYPAL GIVING FUND and PAYPAL with 100% going to BTSYA with NO FEES: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

Share the Love, Celebrate Black History Month, Be Heart Healthy, and Happy Presidents’ Day

With gratitude from Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED! LOVE!

2021 Rainbows, STARS, and Sparkles

Posted by

presspass on December 29, 2020

Empowerment

MIRACLE MOMENT®

“The only ones among you who will be really happy are those who will have sought and found how to serve.” ~ Albert Schweitzer

MESSAGE FROM CYNTHIA BRIAN, Founder/Executive Director

One of the profound pearls of wisdom that my daughter taught me is that we have to endure the rain if we want to witness the rainbows. 2020 has been a cataclysmic year like no other we have witnessed. Over 1% of the population of the United States have died from the Covid-19 pandemic and millions are sick. Our hearts are heavy with grief over those we lost too soon. Social unrest, political tensions, racial violence, rising unemployment. shuttered businesses, shelter-in-place orders, isolation, online-schooling, and other challenges have afflicted our nation in a devastating manner.

Yet, we are resilient. We are hopeful. And with a vaccine available in the near future, we can look forward to enjoying rainbows. It has been a difficult ten months for everyone and we all share in the sorrow and the pain.

Chin up.

Remain optimistic.
Be kind.

Help others.

Be happy.

Be grateful.

As we come to the end of 2020, I personally thank you for your support of Be the Star You Are!® as we struggled to continue our outreach programs. Like everything this year, it hasn’t been easy, especially without in-person events and fundraisers. But BTSYA has continued to increase literacy and positive media messages without a delay in production.

Our volunteers have read hundreds of books and written excellent reviews to help parents, teachers, students, guardians, and kids find relief through the pages of a book. Make sure to check out the reviews at http://www.btsya.com/book_reviews.html and also visit our literacy partner’s site at The Reading Tub: https://thereadingtub.org/books/be-the-star-you-are/

Our two radio shows, StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® and Express Yourself! Teen radio never missed a week of broadcasting while showcasing authors, actors, activists, artists, musicians, poets, entrepreneurs, medical professionals and other creatives who could help listeners get through these tough times with joy and positivity. (https://www.BethestarYouAreRadio.com)

Operation Disaster Relief continues year-round.

Please consider making a tax-deductible donation before December 31. Thanks to a temporary provision in the CARES Act, in 2020, you can elect to use charitable donations to deduct up to 100% of your AGI. If you have the means and you want a tax deduction, this is the time to do it. (Naturally consult with your tax advisor).

Two easy ways to donate:

By check to Be the Star You Are!

PO Box 376

Moraga, Ca. 94556

through PAYPAL GIVING FUND with 100% going to BTSYA with NO FEES: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504.

If you donate via check, a tax receipt will be sent to you via email or mail. If you donate via Paypal, you will get an instant receipt. If you send us a copy of your Paypal donation receipt via email, I can personally acknowledge your contribution and send you a receipt from BTSYA as well. Send your Paypal receipt to cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org.

Another way to donate is by purchasing any of our books and other items.

May rainbows fill your days in 2021 showering you with stars and sparkles.

Wishing you healthier, happier, holistic New Year! Celebrate being alive.

With gratitude,

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Quality gardening products including umbrellas canopies, gazebos, hammocks, furniture, and more.

cyntha brian-lillum speciosum.jpeg

DONATE: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

Links to Help You During Difficult Times

Jillian Day of 508assist.org, generously provided these links to help everyone and especially those with any disabilities now and in the future.

What You Should Know About COVID-19 and the ADA, the Rehabilitation Act, and Other EEO Laws: This article explains workers’ rights as they apply to the coronavirus.

How to Best Seek Medical Treatment During the Pandemic: This is a great resource for anyone who needs to seek medical treatment now and in the coming months.

How to Ease Social Isolation During the Pandemic: This article offers coping strategies to those feeling isolated.

THOUSANDS OF BOOK REVIEWS FOR TOTS TO TEENS

When you are seeking a great book for young readers, check out the thousands of book reviews at our literacy partner, The Reading Tub. Be the Star You Are! volunteers read and write honest, first person reviews with recommendations for similar books. The amazing Executive Director, Terry Doherty, double-checks every submission for accuracy and authenticity. https://thereadingtub.org/books/be-the-star-you-are/

ONLINE SHOPPING GIVES BACK!

To avoid exposure to coronavirus in stores, shop on-line. We have a dozen suggestions for you to shop, save, and stay safe while supporting Be the Star You Are!. Most are offering major discounts or sales. for all of your shopping essentials.

1. AmazonSmile donates .5% of purchases https://smile.amazon.com/ch/94-3333882

2. Discounted books at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shops/be_the_star_you_are_charity

3. Giving Assistant: Shop. Earn. Give! Use Giving Assistant to earn cash at 3500+ popular online stores :https://givingassistant.org/np#be-the-star-you-are-inc

4. Stock up on autographed, first edition books from our StarStyle® store and we will include extra goodies with your order. Plus, through the holidays we are including a complimentary CD of beautiful, relaxing music to help you decompress. https://www.CynthiaBrian.com/online-store.

5. Are you a gamer, lover of new software, or other digital content? Buy all of your favorites at Humble Bundle. http://ow.ly/cYs130iN6n4

6. Modern Nursery: https://bit.ly/2WQv7lJ

High-end furniture and decor for the new baby in the house!

7. Abba Patio: https://bit.ly/3eXTJPV

8. Botanical Interests: https://bit.ly/39spMXe

Seeds and botanical art. Free garden coloring book and other downloads.

9.Fifth Room: https://bit.ly/2D4ymPL

Beautiful structures and furniture for

outdoor and indoor living including gazebos, pergolas, bridges, sunrooms, pool houses, and more.

10.Nature Hills: https://bit.ly/301ZgAV

Extensive selection of plants, seeds, bulbs, and garden accessories plus trees, shrubs, and perennials.

11.Sunnydaze: https://bit.ly/3bpr1rb

Fountains, fire pits, hammocks, outdoor furniture, garden gnomes, and accessories with FREE shipping.

12. SunBasket: https://bit.ly/2DipPsT

Healthy meal service delivery with fresh, organic ingredients. Eat clean. . Feel Great!

LINKS YOU CAN USE

Positive Results: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/positive-results

How to Help: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/how-to-help

https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

GREAT NON PROFITS REVIEWS: https://greatnonprofits.org/org/be-the-star-you-are-inc

GUIDESTAR/CANDID: https://www.guidestar.org/profile/94-3333882

We invite you to volunteer, get involved, or make a donation. Make a DONATION through PAYPAL GIVING FUND and PAYPAL with 100% going to BTSYA with NO FEES:

HAPPY and HEALTHY 2021

Sending you rainbows and sparkles for a healthy, healthy, healthy

New Year. Health is wealth. The rest will follow.

THANKS!

Be the Star You Are!

PO Box 376

Moraga, Ca. 94556

www.BetheStarYouAre.org

www.BTSYA.org

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS!

Posted by

presspass on December 14, 2020

Empowerment

MIRACLE MOMENT®

“The darker the night sky, the brighter the stars!” Cynthia Brian

MESSAGE FROM CYNTHIA BRIAN, Founder/Executive Director

When the world went on pandemic lock-down in March, most people thought it would be over by fall. It is December holiday season and here in California we are once again on mandated lock-down to shelter-in-place until January 4th, 2021. I’ve reframed the concept into celebrating the HOLLY-DAZE!

For the past ten years, my extended family has gathered for several days at my son’s family home in beautiful Lake Tahoe to celebrate a white Christmas. It’s a magical time of baking, cooking, laughing, singing, skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, snowman making, ice skating, caroling, camaraderie, storytelling, hot-tubbing, and celebrating the love of family and friends. On the eve of Christmas, Santa arrives bringing gifts for all of us who have been good girls and boys. We all cherish this time and look forward to it annually.

This year, we all remain home for the holidays. As much as my husband and I will miss being with our children and others, it is the right thing to do in an effort to arrest this vicious virus. Although people probably won’t be arrested for breaking the rules, we want to do our part to keep everyone safe.

Until the last few months, I rarely shopped online. Since the pandemic, I have been happily amazed at how simple and efficient online shopping has been, in addition to keeping us safer. Since gift-giving is a holiday tradition, I want to recommend the sites I’m using. Each gives a small percentage of every sale to Be the Star You Are!® charity while offering the consumer discounts and bonus gifts.

I just used Giving Assistant (:https://givingassistant.org/np#be-the-star-you-are-inc) to order my favorite face cream. After typing in “Olay” in the search box, I was redirected to the Olay website. Once I chose the products I wanted, the app “Honey”, found discounts, and I received free shipping. Everything arrived in a few days without me leaving the house. I needed batteries for my solar lights, and Amazon Smile (https://smile.amazon.com/ch/94-3333882) had exactly what I needed when the local hardware store didn’t. I’m now a fan of online shopping. It’s great to be able to shop and give back to charity at the same time. So look below for places to do your online-shopping while making a difference. It’s a win/win.

If you have wanted to buy any of our signature books, now is the BEST time to do so as besides the personalization and normal extra goodies we offer, you will be given a FREE bonus inspirational music CD by a renowned artist. Visit https://CynthiaBrian.com/online-store to order today.

For hundreds of discounted new books by authors you love, visit our Be the Star You Are!® Amazon store at ttps://www.amazon.com/shops/be_the_star_you_are_charity

Find your joy and shine your light on others in these dark days. I am more grateful than ever to be alive and for having health, family, friends, and a home in which to celebrate Christmas.

Sending love, peace, health, and healing to you during this blessed holiday season.

Shine brightly with gratitude!

Welcome the HOLLY-DAZE and make a gingerbread village!

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

Quality gardening products including umbrellas canopies, gazebos, hammocks, furniture, and more.

DONATE: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

RECOMMENDED HOLLY-DAZE ONLINE SHOPPING!

1. AmazonSmile donates .5% of purchases https://smile.amazon.com/ch/94-3333882

2. Discounted books at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shops/be_the_star_you_are_charity

3. Giving Assistant: Shop. Earn. Give! Use Giving Assistant to earn cash at 3500+ popular online stores :https://givingassistant.org/np#be-the-star-you-are-inc

5. Are you a gamer, lover of new software, or other digital content? Buy all of your favorites at Humble Bundle. http://ow.ly/cYs130iN6n4

6. Modern Nursery: https://bit.ly/2WQv7lJ

High-end furniture and decor for the new baby in the house!

7. Abba Patio: https://bit.ly/3eXTJPV

8. Botanical Interests: https://bit.ly/39spMXe

Seeds and botanical art. Free garden coloring book and other downloads.

9.Fifth Room: https://bit.ly/2D4ymPL

Beautiful structures and furniture for

outdoor and indoor living including gazebos, pergolas, bridges, sunrooms, pool houses, and more.

10.Nature Hills: https://bit.ly/301ZgAV

Extensive selection of plants, seeds, bulbs, and garden accessories plus trees, shrubs, and perennials.

11.Sunnydaze: https://bit.ly/3bpr1rb

Fountains, fire pits, hammocks, outdoor furniture, garden gnomes, and accessories with FREE shipping.

12. SunBasket: https://bit.ly/2DipPsT

Healthy meal service delivery with fresh, organic ingredients. Eat clean. Feel Great!

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

by Jessica Wayda

As the holidays approach, I sit here and realize that this year has been crazy. Between the kids being forced to be in remote school all year and the world seeming to fall apart, I remind myself that even though things are not the greatest right now, things could be worse. My family and I have a tradition every year that we put up our decorations, we turn on our little gas fireplace and we watch Santa Claus movies with hot cocoa, this tradition is something that we have done since my kids were little and just have always continued it. Even though the world is full of unknowns, jobs are hard to come by and kids are forced to live lives that they are not used to, we need to remember to lean on each other as friends, family and a community. We need to know that no matter what there is so much good and love in this world and that we will get through this together! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all. – Jess

Jessica Wayda, a volunteer with Be the Star You Are!®, loves volunteering for causes that make a positive difference in the world, and wants everyone to know that although the road may seem tough, know that this holiday season we are here together.

THOUSANDS OF BOOK REVIEWS FOR TOTS TO TEENS

A CUP OF KINDNESS

by Karen Kitchel

‘Tis the season to be kind. What’s in your cup?

Little Rosie had no money, so she “borrowed” a beautiful handkerchief from her mother’s purse and carefully wrapped it in bright tissue paper to give to her mama on Christmas morning. That gift was never forgotten.

The value of a gift is the thought that goes into it. The gifts we tend to remember are those which are wrapped with love.

A gift you might give yourself this season could be a cupful of kindness spilled on anonymous receivers.

EDU_TAINMENT WITH BE THE STAR YOU ARE! RADIO

LIVE on Wednesdays from 4-5pm PT, be entertained, informed, amused, and educated on StarStyle-Be the Star You Are!. Then be inspired and motivated on

Sundays from 3-4pm PT, it’s Express Yourself! Teen Radio with our Be the Star You Are! star teen hosts.

You’ll meet authors, actors, artists, activists, musicians, poets, scientists, educators, and other creatives. Enjoy the HOLLY-DAZE radio parties on the Voice America Network Empowerment Channel or wherever you like to listen.

Visit https://www.StarStyleRadio.com for our line-up of guests.

LINKS YOU CAN USE

Positive Results: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/positive-results

How to Help: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/how-to-help

https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

GREAT NON PROFITS REVIEWS: https://greatnonprofits.org/org/be-the-star-you-are-inc

GUIDESTAR/CANDID: https://www.guidestar.org/profile/94-3333882

We invite you to volunteer, get involved, or make a donation. Make a DONATION through PAYPAL GIVING FUND and PAYPAL with 100% going to BTSYA with NO FEES:

STAY SAFE, ENJOY THE HOLIDAYS, STAY HOME

We appreciate you and send all healthy and happy wishes to you and your loved ones. Thank you for your ongoing support.

Joyful Wishes and Dreams for a Blessed Season!

Be the Star You Are!

PO Box 376

Moraga, Ca. 94556

www.BetheStarYouAre.org

www.BTSYA.org

Thanksgiving is EVERYDAY!

Posted by

presspass on November 24, 2020

Empowerment

MIRACLE MOMENT®

“Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues but the parent of all others.” Cicero

MESSAGE FROM CYNTHIA BRIAN, Founder/Executive Director

2020 has been a year of overwhelming challenges. Here in America, a land of great abundance, we are weathering enormous unemployment, social unrest, political disparity, and the devastating effects of the pandemic. As I write this, the CDC announced that over one million new cases occurred in the past seven days. The death toll is now at 256,000 and rising. My heart goes out to all of those who have lost loved ones during this terrible crisis.

The best way to stay safe this Thanksgiving is to celebrate only with those you live with. Protect yourself and others from Covid-19 by staying home. Make health a priority over parties.

Being human means that all of us, regardless of race, religion, economics, politics, or sex, will always have difficult times to overcome. No matter what we endure, we need to express gratitude for what we have, not what we don’t. With so much loss, it is tough to be positive, yet even more necessary to give thanks daily. Gratitude exalts the heart and feeds the soul.

Be the Star You Are!® continues its outreach programs virtually. Both of our radio broadcasts, StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® and Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio, bring you authors, artists, actors, musicians, and other creatives who are struggling during this pandemic. Make sure to tune in and support their work. You may find our line-up of remarkable guests at https://www.StarStyleRadio.com

We have beautiful new books available to donate through our holiday distribution program. If your organization, shelter, church, hospital, or other group would like to apply to receive books, please email me for guidelines. Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

Tuesday, December 1^st is Giving Tuesday. Created in 2012, Giving Tuesday is a day dedicated to inspiring millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity. If there ever was a year when donations are necessary, this is it. If you are in a position to donate, please go to https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504 No donation is too small or too big. Help us continue our vital programs in 2021.

This will be the first year in my life that I will only be celebrating Thanksgiving with one other person, my husband. The toasts and prayers will be for health, peace, unity, decency, and love for our global community.

My sincerest wishes to you for a healthy and happy day of Thanksgiving. Take a walk outdoors, inhale the fresh fall air, and experience the solace of nature.

I am grateful for you and your dedication to make this world a better place.

Stay joyful and give thanks for what you have.

“Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has plenty; not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some.” Charles Dickens, 1812-1870, Novelist

Blessings, grace, and peace.

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

DONATE: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

GIVING THANKS

Many of us have struggled this year as we continue to live through this pandemic. Lives have been lost, hearts have been shattered. It is clear that we all have to take time to heal our souls. Thanksgiving is a time where we all come together with our families, friends and the people we love.

Even though it is difficult to celebrate normally this year, we can celebrate safely. We can socially distance with our loved ones, or gather together with the people we’ve quarantined with, or even have a simple phone call with a friend. We can enjoy life despite the craziness. Remember and appreciate the little things we all cherish in life.

It is the season of giving and gratitude. Stay safe. Life is worth living.

Angelica Parmoshin is a high school senior devoting time and efforts to volunteering with life changing organizations. Read more http://www.btsya.com/resources.html

THANK YOU

How can we thank the teachers and staff who tirelessly work to educate and comfort our youth? Whether or not we have children in school, we all want our future generation to thrive and grow.

As a simple gesture of thanks, my husband and I decided to give the gift of coffee to teachers and staff at two local schools. We added a card that says “You Are Awesome!”

By purchasing bags of ground coffee from the Friends of San Lucas, we’re supporting the coffee farmers in Guatemala.

Think about thanking a teacher today!

Karen Kitchel is the Kindness Coordinator volunteer with BTSYA. She serves meals to the homeless and is a volunteer teacher, writer, job coach, and mentor. www.scatteringkindness.com

MY 2020 THANKSGIVING

Thanksgiving in 2020 looks a little different this year. I’m grateful to be able to celebrate and spend time with my family.

Thanksgiving has always been my second favorite holiday (next to Christmas). What I love about Thanksgiving is having the moment to reflect and show gratitude. Usually, every year we go to my aunt’s house in Yorba Linda. We play games, eat great food, and have fun with tons of family. This year due to COVID it will just be myself and my parents at our home this year. I am looking forward to eating food, playing games with my family, watching movies, and having fun with our new dog Bronco.

This year I am grateful for many things. I am grateful for my mom, dad, family, and friends. I am also grateful for my basketball team, my life, BE THE STAR YOU ARE!® (BTSYA), and most of all keeping a level head throughout this year.

I hope everyone has the best Thanksgiving ever!

Stay safe and Peace out!!

Jonathan Jackson

Thirteen year-old Jonathan Jackson is a reporter on Express Yourself!® Teen Radio with his segment, Jay’s Sport’s World. He maintains a 4.0, is passionate about basketball, and dreams of attending U.C.L.A. in their journalism program. https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2014/express-yourself

HOLIDAY SHOPPING? BLACK FRIDAY SALES?

The holidays are approaching.To avoid exposure to coronavirus in stores, you may wish to shop on-line. We have suggestions for you to shop, save, and stay safe. Please use these web sites for all of your shopping essentials.

1. AmazonSmile donates .5% of purchases https://smile.amazon.com/ch/94-3333882

2. Discounted books at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shops/be_the_star_you_are_charity

3. Giving Assistant: Shop. Earn. Give! Use Giving Assistant to earn cash at 3500+ popular online stores :https://givingassistant.org/np#be-the-star-you-are-inc

4. Shop at over 1300 stores on IGIVE: http://www.iGive.com/BTSYA

5. Stock up on autographed, first edition books from our StarStyle® store and we will include extra goodies with your order. Plus, through the holidays we are including a complimentary CD of beautiful, relaxing music to help you decompress. https://www.CynthiaBrian.com/online-store.

6. Are you a gamer, lover of new software, or other digital content? Buy all of your favorites at Humble Bundle. http://ow.ly/cYs130iN6n4

STAY SAFE! WEAR A MASK!

LINKS YOU CAN USE

Positive Results: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/positive-results

How to Help: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/how-to-help

http://hosted.verticalresponse.com/672296/70dc5c7814/288055965/bbd34d3431/

GREAT NON PROFITS REVIEWS: https://greatnonprofits.org/org/be-the-star-you-are-inc

GUIDESTAR/CANDID: https://www.guidestar.org/profile/94-3333882

We invite you to volunteer, get involved, or make a donation. Make a DONATION through PAYPAL GIVING FUND and PAYPAL with 100% going to BTSYA with NO FEES: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

May you and your loved ones enjoy a restful and blessed Thanksgiving wherever you are and whatever you do.

THANK YOU FOR BEING PART OF OUR BE THE STAR YOU ARE!® GALAXY!

Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3
PO Box 376
Moraga, California 94556
US
See more:

History is Made. Healing is Necessary. Have Hope!

Posted by

presspass on November 11, 2020

Empowerment

History is Made. Healing is Necessary. Have Hope!

See all at

http://hosted.verticalresponse.com/672296/56e198d1b6/288055965/ac7221bc2f/

MIRACLE MOMENT®

“History says don’t hope

On this side of the grave.

But then, once in a lifetime

The longed for tidal wave

Of justice can rise up.

And hope and history rhyme.”

Seamus Heaney, Northern Ireland Theatre Company, 1990

MESSAGE FROM CYNTHIA BRIAN, Founder/Executive Director

A new chapter in history was written this past weekend.

As of Sunday afternoon, Joe Biden had received 75.2 million votes, the most votes cast in a presidential race ever. Donald Trump had received 70.8 million votes, the second most votes cast according to the Associated Press. Our California Senator, Kamala Harris will break the 244-year ceiling-shattering barrier to become the first elected female vice president of the United States on inauguration day. She is also the first Black vice president, first of Indian descent, and daughter of immigrants.

The joyful celebrations that erupted around the country confirmed that America was ready for change and stability. The past four years have divided our country like no other time since the Civil War. It has been a time of unpredictability, chaos, civil unrest, rising white supremacy, climate change denial, and wall building. 2020 brought the Covid-19 pandemic, unemployment, protests, depression, and death. The campaign was vitriolic and stress-inducing. With a new inclusive administration positioned to take charge, it is time to heal the wounds and soothe the pain.

It’s not going to be easy or swift, but I am encouraged by the fact that President-elect Joe Biden has already charted a course for policy changes and named a coronavirus task force.

Mr. Biden said that “with the campaign over, it’s time to put the anger and the harsh rhetoric behind us and come together as a nation. It’s time for America to unite. And to heal. The work ahead of us will be hard, but I promise you this: I will be a President for all Americans — whether you voted for me or not. I will keep the faith that you have placed in me.”

As challenging as the issues are that divide us, we will work together to build a better future. There is no place for revenge, toxic politics, or negative rhetoric. Our hope resides in bipartisanship…reaching across the aisle in solidarity for the greater good for all.

In these uncertain times, history has been recorded. It’s never been more important to be actively involved and civically engaged. The power to make positive community changes and connect people to one another is within us. With faith, hope, and empathy, we can heal the past to create a new vision of possibilities ensuring safety and success for every individual.

Character matters. Truth matters. Integrity matters. We ALL matter.

Congratulations to our 46th President and our first woman Vice-President. The American people are trusting in you and your cabinet. Please lead us with dignity, decency, and grace.

We are a TEAM. Together everyone achieves more.

The critical color for 2021 is purple.

Breathe.

Blessings, gratitude, and healing,

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

MAKE A DONATION TO OPERATION DISASTER RELIEF TO HELP SURVIVORS OF THE FIRES AND HURRICANES!

DONATE: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

THANK YOU FOR MAKING BTSYA A TOP NON PROFIT!

2020 GreatNonprofits TOP-RATED Nonprofit

Be the Star You Are!® has been honored with a Top-Rated Award for 2020 from GreatNonprofits with 5 STAR reviews! We appreciate all of your contributions! https://greatnonprofit s.org/org/be-the-star-you-are-inc

A Path Towards Recovery

After a few torturous days of awaiting the results from the 2020 presidential election, it has been announced that our new President is Joe Biden. Minutes after hearing the news, the streets were filled with cheering and screams of joy. The spirits of the people within our society were raised as they celebrated Biden’s electoral win.

Our nation’s path towards recovery has been long-awaited and we can only hope that it gets better from here on. We must continue to fight for the rights of our people, especially those who are in marginalized populations struggling to have their voices heard.

Although we have won this election together, it is only the first step towards healing the United States. As a society, we have to continue to spread love and peace in order to attain harmony at the end of our united path towards healing.

Angelica Paramoshin, a content creator volunteer with Be the Star You Are!® charity, is a rising senior in high school devoting time doing volunteering work in order to use her voice to help others. She is also now a cat mom!

Healing our World, One Kindness at a Time

If ever there was a time when kindness was needed to heal hearts, it is now. Today we may be challenged by family members, friends, or people we don’t know to try to understand their viewpoints and feelings. How we respond speaks volumes about us.

We all have the option of taking the high road or the low road when faced with difficult situations. Simple acts of kindness, such as listening to opposite opinions, and expressing our belief in the value of all individuals, might bring us all to a higher ground.

Today I challenge you to post or send a kind message to an individual or organization to simply send good wishes. Surprise someone with your reaching out. It doesn’t mean you agree with all they say or do, but you value them as human beings and wish them well. Let’s give everyone a reason to smile today and continue to scatter some kindness tomorrow.

“It doesn’t matter who you voted for, where you stood before Election Day,” Mr. Biden said in short remarks in Delaware after meeting with members of a newly formed Covid-19 advisory board. “It doesn’t matter your party, your point of view. We can save tens of thousands of lives if everyone would just wear a mask for the next few months.” He added: “Not Democratic or Republican lives — American lives.”

HOLIDAY SHOPPING?

1. AmazonSmile donates .5% of purchases https://smile.amazon.com/ch/94-3333882

2. Discounted books at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shops/be_the_star_you_are_charity

3. Giving Assistant: Shop. Earn. Give! Use Giving Assistant to earn cash at 3500+ popular online stores :https://givingassistant.org/np#be-the-star-you-are-inc

4. Shop at over 1300 stores on IGIVE: http://www.iGive.com/BTSYA

5. Buy “Read, Lead, Succeed” black tanks and books at StarStyle® Store: http://www.starstylestore.net/

6. Are you a gamer, lover of new software, or other digital content? Buy all of your favorites at Humble Bundle. http://ow.ly/cYs130iN6n4

STAY SAFE! WEAR A MASK!

BE UPLIFTED WITH BE THE STAR YOU ARE!® RADIO BROADCASTS

Tune in to StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® on Wednesdays at 4pm PT for “Wednesdays with Writers and Performers” LIVE http://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2206/be-the-star-you-are as well as our teen program, Express Yourself!™ airing on Sundays at 3pm PT for “Super Smart Sundays” https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2014/express-yourself

2016 Promo Banner bothshows-no pics

DIRECT LINKS you can use for Be the Star You Are!®

Positive Results: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/positive-results

How to Help: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/how-to-help

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

GREAT NON PROFITS REVIEWS: https://greatnonprofits.org/org/be-the-star-you-are-inc

GUIDESTAR/CANDID: https://www.guidestar.org/profile/94-3333882

PLEASE DONATE

Make a DONATION through PAYPAL GIVING FUND and PAYPAL with 100% going to BTSYA with NO FEES: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

United we stand. Divided we fall.

We are the United States of America.

We honor the men and women of our United States Armed Forces on Veterans Day, November 11, 2020. Your dedicated service is greatly appreciated and valued. Thank you. Thank you.

Hope, Healing, and the color purple.

Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3

PO Box 376

Moraga, California

94556

www.BTSYA.org

www.BetheStarYouAre.org

info@BetheStarYouAre.org

Spooktacular Hallowed Eve, Virus and Voting Videos

Posted by

presspass on October 30, 2020

Empowerment

Spooktacular Hallowed Eve, Virus and Voting Videos


	StarSearcher’s Express
	http://hosted.verticalresponse.com/672296/a1de7cb39a/288055965/bbd34d3431/

MIRACLE MOMENT®

“Let others lead small lives, but not you.

Let others argue over small things, but not you.

Let others cry over small hurts, but not you.

Let others leave their future in another’s hands, but not you.”

The Challenge by Jim Rohn

MESSAGE FROM CYNTHIA BRIAN, Founder/Executive Director

The next few days are going to be ghoulish in more ways than one. In the midst of a pandemic, we will celebrate Halloween and brave an election. And for many states, we turn our clocks back an hour on Sunday.

Halloween

Kids everywhere love Halloween, yet this year presents a challenge on how to provide fun and merriment for youthful vampires and witches. Neighborhoods are responding with social distancing activities while providing the ghostly experience for trick or treaters.

happy halloween.jpg

On both our Voice America Network radio shows, we share thoughts on ways to make this year meaningful.

For Halloween on StarStyle, tune in to https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/126203/nature-halloween-damned-if-she-does-friendship

For Halloween on Express Yourself! Teen Radio with a story of the Salem Witch Trials, tune in to https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/126523/halloween-and-tituba-the-intentional-witch-of-salem

In my garden column I suggest a Nature’s Halloween. You can read about how to do it here:https://www.lamorindaweekly.com/archive/issue1418/Digging-Deep-with-Goddess-Gardener-Cynthia-Brian-Natures-Halloween.html

Pandemic

As I write this, there are 8,835,393 diagnosed cases of corona virus in the US with 228,000 deaths. A surge of cases is rising as is the death toll. We must continue to wash our hands, wear masks, social distance, and be diligent. Despite the tragedy, many creative people have brought levity as well as awareness to this pandemic through song and dance. Below are a few short videos worth watching.

For the Longest Time: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LpAKcQufacc

Coronavirus Rhapsody: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ymMuCtowLk&feature=emb_rel_err

You are in Quarantine ( A “Dancing Queen” Parody) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FmDcg59Xzek&feature=emb_rel_err

How Can I Keep From Singing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VLPP3XmYxXg&feature=emb_rel_err

Election

No matter what your political leaning, you have the privilege and responsibility of voting in this Presidential election on November 3. At the moment our wonderful nation is deeply divided. When you cast your ballot, vote for people who will save democracy, not destroy. United we stand, divided we fall. We are ALL Americans and deserve to be heard and understood.

Check out these videos.

International Leadership Award Ceremony: https://youtu.be/ymaWq5yZIYM

Well Done: https://digbysblog.net/2020/10/well-done/

Go from There (Sam Elliott) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n2Xufahbaq4

Decorated with glitter pumpkin.jpeg

Give your kids a safe and Happy Halloween. Turn your clocks back on Sunday and take a snooze.

Take Jim Rohn’s Challenge. Wear a mask. Save democracy. Save America. Exercise your right to VOTE.

Stay healthy and sane and remember to have some fun during these times!

Always grateful,

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

www.BetheStarYouAre.org

DONATE: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

Five Components of Literacy

Reading Components

bu Stephanie Cogeos

Reading is one of the most important skills children can learn. There are five essential components of reading:

1. 1.Phonics. This is mapping the sounds in words to written letters. This is an early reading skill children develop. It allows them to understand the link between letters and sounds. Lack of instruction in phonics leads to difficulties in reading. Children have to grasp the fact that printed text represents the sounds of spoken words. There are a lot of ways to help a child develop this ability.

1. 1.Phonemic Awareness. You develop phonemic awareness by learning about sounds, syllables and words. Words are made up of units of sound known as phonemes. The word “crab” is made up for four individual units of sound: c/r/a/b. The word “shop” has three phonemes: sh/o/p. The ability to hear, identify and manipulate the individual units of sound is phonemic awareness. It is a fundamental skill in learning how to read. English consists of about 41 phonemes.

1. 1.Vocabulary. The more words we know the better one becomes at reading and understanding what we are reading. Reading a wide variety of books will allow a child to grow their vocabulary. The more words they learn, their vocabulary will grow and enable them to learn.

1. 1.Fluency. Fluency lets readers span the gap between recognizing a word and knowing what it means. Fluent readers do not need to concentrate on decoding the words on a page. They can focus on the meaning of the words and enjoy what they are reading. Fluency comes as a child develops the first 3 components listed above.

1. 1.Reading Comprehension. Great readers can become immersed in the stories they read. They can visualize the characters, hear the dialogue and imagine details that are not necessarily on the page. They can identify with the characters. In nonfiction, they can gain new information and link what they read with other sources of information and learn new ideas and concepts.

Available at http://www.btsya.com/resources.html

Stephanie Cogeos is the Star Teen Book Review Coordinator with Be the Star You Are!®

www.BTSYA.org

If you’d like to become a book reviewer, email info@bethestaryouare.org.

When shopping use Amazon Smile: #StartWithaSmile at https://smile.amazon.com/ch/94-3333882 and Amazon donates to Be The Star You Are, Inc..

MAKE A DONATION TO OPERATION DISASTER RELIEF TO HELP SURVIVORS OF THE FIRES AND HURRICANES!

BTSYA cuff Bracelets.jpg

Make a DONATION through PAYPAL GIVING FUND and PAYPAL with 100% going to BTSYA with NO FEES: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

DIRECT LINKS you can use for Be the Star You Are!®

Positive Results: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/positive-results

How to Help: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/how-to-help

https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

GREAT NON PROFITS REVIEWS: https://greatnonprofits.org/org/be-the-star-you-are-inc

GUIDESTAR/CANDID: https://www.guidestar.org/profile/94-3333882

PLEASE DONATE

Checks can be sent to PO Box 376, Moraga, California 94556

http://www.btsya.org

YOU MATTER! VOTE TODAY FOR DECENCY!

Flg- Love is love.jpeg

ENJOY A SAFE AND HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

kaylee in cantealope Halloween costume-monster.jpeg


	Contact Information: BTSYA, PO Box 376, Moraga, California 94556, www.BTSYA.org

Fall is Now!

Posted by

presspass on September 28, 2020

Empowerment

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THANK YOU!

VOTE FOR CANDIDATES WHO CARE ABOUT DOING THE RIGHT THING FOR ALL OF THE U.S.A,!

OUR DEMOCRACY DEPENDS ON YOU!

MIRACLE MOMENT®

“Government, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil; in its worst state, an intolerable one.”

Thomas Paine

MESSAGE FROM CYNTHIA BRIAN, Founder/Executive Director

In normal times, today I would be celebrating the beginning of fall with our volunteers at our BTSYA booth at the Pear and Wine Festival where we would be providing fun activities for children, giving away books to increase literacy, and encouraging positivity. This gathering is a time to celebrate our “harvest” of serving the community, country, and world. Every year our booth has been sponsored by Andy and Wendy Scheck, publishers of the Lamorinda Weekly newspaper where I have been a columnist since 2008. Because of Covid-19, all in-person activities and events have been canceled so the Lamorinda Weekly decided to honor our autumn festivities by sponsoring this newsletter. We are grateful.

So much has occurred in the last month that it is mind-boggling. Deadly towering infernos, thirty days of red alerts and save-the-air days, falling ash, smoke-taint on red grapes, civil unrest, political nastiness, and all in the midst of the pandemic. I’ve been busy (and sadly) moving out of our office building where Be the Star You Are!® has been headquartered for the past twenty-one years.

As part of Operation Disaster Relief, we have donated over $3500 of brand new books and other goods to survivors of the California fires. We have also provided radio interviews and publicity to authors, actors, artists, and others who have had all of their personal engagements canceled due to the coronavirus. Our Star Teen Book Review volunteers have written hundreds of book reviewsto help children, teens, parents, teachers, and others discover the love of reading. We have welcomed several youth to be content providers, adding their unique voices to the public conversation. We’ve trained teens join our radio family as journalists and radio reporters.

I have never been a political person. Since the time I could vote, I have never voted a party line. As a history major, I read all the materials, vet the source, study the issues with care and caution, then vote for the people, programs, and policies that I believe will best serve the citizens of our nation. This election season is the volatile, derisive, and divisive. It seems we are on the verge of another civil war. I urge you to study the ballot carefully. Cast your vote for decency, respectability, and for the people who will empower our country, not divide it. The world is watching. Americans are waiting. Thomas Paine was astute in his words.

Be brave, be smart, be strong. Do your part. WEAR A MASK! VOTE!

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

MAKE A DONATION TO OPERATION DISASTER RELIEF TO HELP SURVIVORS OF THE FIRES AND HURRICANES!

DONATE: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

SPOTLIGHT on AUTHOR, JOHN LAYNE

Author, John Layne will gallop into the 2021 season of StarStyle® Radio with Red River Reunion a classic Western Fiction novel set in 1877 Texas. It follows U.S. Marshal Luxton Danner and Texas Ranger Wes Payne on their mission to seek out and eliminate the vicious outlaw threat on the banks of the Red River. They risk everything to defend the settlers and uphold frontier law. Encountering tragic circumstances along the way, the duo band together with the settlers to survive, thrive and create a safe and prosperous future for all. Fans of Layne’s distinctive style will enjoy his rich characters and period details that bring the Old West back to life. www.johnlaynefiction.com.

john layne Red River Reunion Standing Cover 2

WELCOME NEW EXPRESS YOURSELF! REPORTERS

Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio is thrilled to welcome two new reporters to our roster, Maggie Campione and Nihal Gill.

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Maggie Campione is a seventh grade student and passionate about theater, reading, public speaking and most importantly, helping others. Her segment is called “The American Connection.” where she will present stories about community connections and staying united during difficult times. Listen to her segment beginning on October 4, 2020.

Nihal Gill, sophomore at Turlock High School loves to play golf and is on the THS varsity golf team. His love for music is expressed through the piano and with his love for robotics he created a non-profit called “Project Spark” to reach out to young elementary students to teach them STEM/Robotics through hands-on kits, and coding. He incorporates the four aspects of STEM into his once a month community classes. His segment is entitled Spark the Interest. He’ll introduce topics that are important for health and wellness for teens all over the world. Nihal will debut on October 28th.

FALL KINDNESS

by Karen Kitchel

Catch a glimpse of leaves turning golden.

Stroll down a less traveled path.

Inhale the scent of a new season.

Remember this amazing autumn day!

VOLUNTEERS SPEAK UP!

Our content writer volunteers speak up and speak out by writing about what is on the minds of the youth and adults of our country.

Ruth Bader Ginsburg:
A judge who will never be forgotten

By Sarah McClenaghan

On September 18, 2020, America lost one of the most rememberable judges’ in the Supreme Court to pancreatic cancer: Ruth Bader Ginsburg. She was an associate justice for many years and made a difference in our country. During her time in court, she was known to argue for gender equality, fight for women’s rights, contributed to civil rights, as well as the rights of workers and supported the separation of church and state.

Women would not be where they are without Ginsburg’s influence in Supreme Court, but she also made an impact on men. It is true she was a role model for women across the country, but men had the opportunity to learn from her leadership, her determination and her life. This shows that Ginsburg was a leader of all humanity, not just women, which has been to inspiration to many Americans.

Continue reading at http://www.btsya.com/resources.html

Thank you, Ginsburg.

Sarah McClenaghan is an inspiring content creator from Lancaster, PA who loves to explore, read and drink coffee. Sarah volunteers with Be the Star You Are!®

The Mysteries of Online Learning

by Angelica Paramoshin

Upon the unanticipated arrival of the raging coronavirus, our society was flung into a seemingly never ending quarantine lifestyle. With this followed the forced embracement of remote learning for the many months that followed.

As a current student in high school, I was initially overwhelmed by the sudden alteration from in-person learning to fully remote. Within a few days of the unprecedented change, my mind was flooded with thoughts surrounding the questionable reality we were all living in. It was very difficult to adjust to the confined daily routine that embodied quarantine. With time however, I was luckily able to acclimate to the given circumstances and began improving in my productivity levels.

By improving my ability to complete my assignments in a timely manner, I allowed myself to not continue my interests in volunteering, but to explore new hobbies that would greaten my appreciation for the little things in life.

Continue reading at http://www.btsya.com/resources.html

Angelica Paramoshin, a content creator volunteer with Be the Star You Are!® charity, is a rising senior in high school devoting time during this pandemic to volunteering.

BE UPLIFTED WITH BE THE STAR YOU ARE!® RADIO BROADCASTS

As part of our Be the Star You Are! Disaster Relief Outreach program (https://www.bethestaryouare.org/copy-of-operation-hurricane-disaste), StarStyle® Productions, LLC and Be the Star You Are!® are showcasing authors, artists, actors, poets, musicians, and many others, all of whom had had their gigs canceled and are out of work. We believe in supporting creativity that provides escape and joy, especially during tough times. Tune in to StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® on Wednesdays at 4pm PT for “Wednesdays with Writers and Performers” LIVE http://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2206/be-the-star-you-are as well as our teen program, Express Yourself!™ airing on Sundays at 3pm PT for “Super Smart Sundays” https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2014/express-yourself

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Both programs broadcast on the Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel and will be archived on that site.

Make a DONATION through PAYPAL GIVING FUND and PAYPAL with 100% going to BTSYA with NO FEES: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

DIRECT LINKS you can use for Be the Star You Are!®

Positive Results: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/positive-results

How to Help: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/how-to-help

GREAT NON PROFITS REVIEWS: https://greatnonprofits.org/org/be-the-star-you-are-inc

GUIDESTAR/CANDID: https://www.guidestar.org/profile/94-3333882

PLEASE DONATE

BTSYA receives no government or corporate support. We count on YOU to help us help others. During this pandemic, all of our fundraising events have been canceled, yet we continue to support those in need. We appreciate a direct donation most of all via PAYPAL GIVING FUND at https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

Checks can be sent to PO Box 376, Moraga, California 94556

http://www.btsya.org

Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3
PO Box 376
Moraga, California 94556
US

Happy 21st Anniversary to Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3 charity

Posted by

presspass on September 4, 2020

Empowerment

Happy 21st Anniversary to Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3 charity

See more: http://hosted.verticalresponse.com/672296/697dec5ebe/288055965/bbd34d3431/

Honored by the California Assembly for 20 years of community service.

HAPPY 21ST ANNIVERSARY TO BTSYA

MIRACLE MOMENT®

“The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate.”

Oprah Winfrey

MESSAGE FROM CYNTHIA BRIAN, Founder/Executive Director

Happy Anniversary to Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3

WOW!

Be the Star You Are!® has served our cities, counties, country, and world for TWENTY ONE years! On September 9, we reach this milestone and I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has been a part of our STAR team throughout our journey. It has been a struggle to stay alive and vibrant, but somehow with determination, vigilance, and a spirit to survive, Be the Star You Are!® proudly celebrates 21 years of dedicated service with a 100% volunteer workforce.

We are so grateful to our supporters who make tax-deductible donations to our charity to support our outreach programs. BTSYA has all the expenses of any business: rent, utilities, supplies, postage, internet, furniture, internet services, insurance, storage, etc. and couldn’t continue without the ongoing donations of individuals like you. When I stop to think of all that has been accomplished in the past 21 years, I am really amazed and also humbled.

We have persevered.

We have made a difference.

We remain a grassroots organization.

We celebrate diversity, inclusivity, and innovation.

We are striving for excellence.

We deliver positivity, hope, and healing.

Over the years, I have managed thousands of volunteers. Some volunteered for a single event, some come, go, and return, some have continued for years. I salute you one and all and say THANK YOU for gracing BTSYA with your individuality, skills, expertise, and humor.

With no paid staff and all volunteers, since receiving our 501c3 status in 1999, Be the Star You Are! has:

Served 420,820 individuals and families

Donated to 110 organizations

Logged 500,890 volunteer hours & growing

Distributed $2 million in resources

Broadcast 2200 unique hours of positive programming through radio broadcasts.

Published 4 signature award-winning books, Be the Star You Are!® 99 Gifts, Be the Star You Are!® for Teens, Be the Star You Are!® Millennials to Boomers, and Miracle Moments®,

Written and published over 2000 book reviews in collaboration with The Reading Tub and Express Yourself!™ Creative Community.

Interviewed over 2500 authors, experts, and celebrities.

Nominated for the California Governor’s and First Lady’s Service Awards

Honored with five-star ratings as a Top Rated Non-Profit by GuideStar and Great Non Profits for the Women’s Empowerment, Arts and Culture, and the Arts Appreciation Campaigns since 2010.

And we are just getting started.

Stay tuned for more as Be the Star You Are!® continues to soar.

Learn more about our programs at https://www.bethestaryouare.org/programs

THANK YOU!

Have a safe and healthy Labor Day weekend. Wear your masks, keep your distance, and respect others.

Living with gratitude and celebrating living,

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

Make a DONATION through PAYPAL GIVING FUND with 100% going to BTSYA with NO FEES: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

THANK YOU MORAGA CHAMBER

The Moraga Chamber of Commerce recently gave a Community Cup Grant to Be the Star You Are!® to help during this challenging Covid-19 crisis. We are so appreciative because all our events have been canceled and funds are necessary to continue inspiration, motivation, communication, and education. Gracias, Gracias, Gracias!

QUOTE FOR LIVING:

“If you think you are beaten, you are.

If you think you dare not, you don’t.

If you’d like to win, but think you can’t

It’s almost a cinch, you won’t.

Life’s battles don’t always go

To the stronger or faster woman or man.

Sooner or later the person who wins

Is the one who thinks she can.”

BE PREPARED FOR EMERGENCIES

In the last few weeks, we’ve experienced unprecedented weather conditions with temperatures in the three digits, ferocious winds, low humidity, thunderstorms, and lightning strikes resulting in more perilous and damaging wildfires. Frightening fire tornadoes, also called fire whirls or firenadoes”, blazed over thousands of acres in Northern California. Dry conditions will only worsen in the forthcoming months. Air quality is precariously unhealthy with dangerous concentrations of tiny PM 2.5 particles that penetrate deep into the lungs.

Natural disasters know no boundaries. One never knows if a fire, earthquake, flood, mudslide, or other calamity is on the horizon. It’s imperative to be prepared for all emergencies. Because of climate change and global warming, we can be assured that our future will include more widespread, frequent, devastating, and deadly natural disasters.

Be Prepared! Read more and Make a “Go Bag”: https://www.lamorindaweekly.com/archive/issue1414/Are-you-ready-to-evacuate.html

DONATE TO DISASTER RELIEF

SHOP ONLINE WITHOUT A MASK!

Since we need to stay at home and only go out when absolutely necessary, these are on-line shopping portals that will sell you what you need, offer discounts, and assist our mission as a nonprofit. Please use these web sites for all of your shopping essentials,

1. AmazonSmile donates .5% of purchases https://smile.amazon.com/ch/94-3333882

2. Discounted books at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shops/be_the_star_you_are_charity

3. Giving Assistant: Shop. Earn. Give! Use Giving Assistant to earn cash at 3500+ popular online stores, then donate a percentage to BTSYA:https://givingassistant.org/np#be-the-star-you-are-inc

& buy from your favorite stores.

4. Search and GoodShop: Choose Be the Star You Are as your charity to support. You can log in with Facebook, too! https://www.goodshop.com/nonprofit/be-the-star-you-are

5. Shop at over 1300 stores on IGIVE: http://www.iGive.com/BTSYA

6. Buy “Read, Lead, Succeed” black tanks $19.99 and books at StarStyle® Store: http://www.starstylestore.net/

7. Are you a gamer, lover of new software, or other digital content? Buy all of your favorites at Humble Bundle. http://ow.ly/cYs130iN6n4

DIRECT LINKS you can use for Be the Star You Are!®

Positive Results: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/positive-results

How to Help: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/how-to-help