bethestaryouare Archives | VoiceAmerica Press Blog

Surviving Summer!

Posted by

presspass on July 27, 2020

Empowerment

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SURVIVING SUMMER!

MIRACLE MOMENT®

“You gain strength, courage, and confidence by each experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, ‘I have lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along.’ You must do the thing you think you cannot do.”

Eleanor Roosevelt 1884-1962, Former First Lady

MESSAGE FROM CYNTHIA BRIAN, Founder/Executive Director

According to reports, more that 1/3 of the population are currently depressed. With the deadly pandemic, civil unrest, political upheaval, unemployment, climate change, travel restrictions, school closures, and stock market ups and downs, it’s no wonder that people feel disoriented. Although we are all in this together, every situation is different. And when we feel burdened, sad, or disillusioned, it doesn’t hurt any less because others are experiencing the same.

We are in pain. We feel the ache, the anguish, the agony, the loneliness, the sorrow. We feel human.

The good news is that as long as you are feeling something, anything, you are alive with the possibility and potential that things will get better. Summer is normally a time for fun, family, friends and vacations. This year, we all just want to survive the chaos.

Make an effort to get out of the shadows of fear and stand in the sunshine. Reach out to help someone and you will feel better. Being of service to others has that effect. Give yourself a break to walk in nature. Listen to the birds. Watch the passing clouds. Smell the roses. Feel the wind on your cheek. Taste a freshly-picked tomato. Roll in the grass. Run through a sprinkler.

“This too shall pass!” We just don’t know when. We will survive this horror. In the meantime, hang in there. Wear a mask. Keep your distance. Stay at home when feasible. Be brave. Be strong.

Living with gratitude,

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

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. You’ll even meet the cast of the new film by director, Sean McNamara, “Mighty Oak”.

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

Both programs broadcast on the Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel and will be archived on that site. You can also listen to all of our broadcasts on the following platforms:

Places to Listen to StarStyle Radio:

Live Show: https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2206/be-the-star-you-are

Apple itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/id669630180?mt=2

Google Play: https://play.google.com/music/listen#/ps/Iftzhum24ektnw3ocfq3keduefq

Tunein: https://tunein.com/podcasts/Motivational/StarStyle—Be-the-Star-You-Are-p46014/

Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/voice-america/be-the-star-you-are

IHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/256-starstyle-be-the-star-you-31083110/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4zDdwzlsHH44caWiMQdD25

Places to Listen to Express Yourself! Teen Radio

Listen at Voice America Network: https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2014/express-yourself

Apple iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id481894121

Google Play: https://play.google.com/music/listen?u=0#/ps/Iiee6vo3fccc7qc4ac4naqvjnc4

Tunein: https://tunein.com/podcasts/Young-Adult/Express-Yourself-p401071/

Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/voice-america/express-yourself

iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/256-express-yourself-31136273/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/24ol79nCzJ1wzao8pTYysj

PANDEMIC FREEDOM

by Andrea Smith

Living during a global pandemic can feel extremely isolating and lonely. We are social people living in a social world. Suddenly our world is completely turned around. Before quarantine we had never-ending things to check off the daily list. Think about it, when was the last time that you took 15 minutes just to sit and breathe? The society we live in is constantly moving at a rate so fast that we must sprint to keep up.

Unfortunately, the consequence of this is that the beauty of solitude is long forgotten. We lose sight of the bigger picture in life, what in the end will make us happy rather than what society says will make us happy. If we aren’t attuned with ourselves, how can we possibly be truly attuned with others?

At the start of quarantine, I began writing each night in a journal. My diary acts as a best friend, for paper will always listen, never judge, and never tell. The act of writing brings you to a place where time no longer moves, where you can finally take a moment and breathe. Sadly it’s an art that has been lost, hidden under the shadows due to the boom in technology. But like any art, it has the power to change your life.

Art gives you relief from the pressuring norms of society and allows you to become more than your accomplishments or failures. Art liberates us, lets us go where we want to go, and be who we want to be. Grab a piece of paper, start writing, and let yourself free.

Andrea Smith is our newest reporter of the segment “In the Spotlight” and host on Express Yourself!® Teen Radio. She is a high school senior who loves swimming and everything related to the ocean. She is extremely passionate about Model United Nations and ways to live a happy and healthy lifestyle! https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2014/express-yourself

“I am so happy to be a part of this team! The past weeks have been an absolute blast and I can’t wait for what is to come!! 🙂 I am so grateful for you! Thanks again!” Andrea Smith

THE VIRTUAL VIRTUOUS WOMAN

By Priscilla Mac

Being a responsible woman of virtue on the internet means being resourceful and giving back to others who are your audience. You can do this in any way that is in sync with your brand and talents but the best way to be resourceful is to make your audience think.

How?

By sharing knowledge and allowing them to take action steps of research. Posting books, articles and blogs that you find online and even newsletters like the one you are reading now help your audience grow. It’s also a great conversation piece to share ideas, opinions and other virtual findings that your audience has access to that perhaps you do not. It all begins with the brave step of putting it out there. I know we tend to think that what we are interested in others aren’t but that’s not always true sisters. Being a Virtual Virtuous Woman involves being brave, bold, bright, and beneficial to others.

You must see yourself as the key that unlocks mysteries of the mind and do your due diligence to be a virtual contribution to the positive information load of the internet. We have been virtuous women for some time but today there is an additional platform to shine on called Social Media.

Be sure to share intelligent, fun and quality content so that you attract like minded citizens.

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

Priscilla Mac is volunteer with Be the Star You Are!® and Christian Television Talk Show Host of a program called “Still Learning Still Developing” which airs on Preach The Word Worldwide Network.During her 5 years of service in the U.S. Army she specialized in Logistics and is currently a Digital Systems Analyst for Voice of America International Broadcasting.. www.priscillamac.com

HELPING CHILDREN TO DEVELOP LITERACY SKILLS-OTHER COMPONENTS

By Stephanie Cogeos

There are ways to help children develop literacy skills. Literacy is generally defined as being able to read, write, communicate. There are more deeper levels of literacy that are just as important.

Establishing predictable routines to help children learn to anticipate events. With routines, children can begin to learn about objects and vocabulary associated with certain activities. Participating in all steps of a routine can reinforce concepts and language skills. Routines can also help children learn about a sequence – first this, then this, or start to finish. Examples would be setting a table, laying out clothes or arranging materials for any activity.

Children who are visually impaired or blind also need the opportunity to experience things through hands-on activities. They would need more instruction because of lack of learning through incidental learning. A book about a farm will be more meaningful if one can visit an actual farm, pet different animals, listen to their calls, etc.

Using a wide range of vocabulary and concepts are important to have good literacy skills. Using lots of adjectives and more detailed descriptions can help expand a child’s vocabulary. Examples would be “let’s put on your red rubber boots today” or “get the blue pitcher of cold milk”.

Many children benefit from reading aloud. It can give them special attention, reinforce language development and to work on book handling skills. Continue reading at http://www.btsya.com/resources.html

Volunteer Stephanie Cogeos is our Book Review coordinator. She is now doing research to provide resources for the public to learn about the importance of literacy, positive media messages, and empowering women families, and youth. You can keep up with the resources at this link: http://www.btsya.com/resources.html

by Karen Kitchel

Kindness is contagious. When we find simple ways to spontaneously bring joy to others, we bring joy to the world.

Lyrics in the play Hamilton raise the question:

“Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells Your Story?”

Thought for today:

When my time is up, have I done enough? Will they tell my story?

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

SUMMER SURVIVAL READING

Our Star Teen Book Review Team is busy reading and writing reviews for you to enjoy this summer. Reviews are honest and the personal experience of each writer.

Check them out at our website, http://www.btsya.com/book_reviews.html, and at our partner, The Reading Tub, https://thereadingtub.org/books/be-the-star-you-are/.

Many thanks to our Book Review Coordinator, Stephanie Cogeos, for keeping us on track. If you are interested in joining our team and you are genuinely interested in being of service to others, you can find the info at http://www.btsya.com/book_reviews.html

READ AWARD-WINNING ARTICLE ABOUT FIRE SAFETY

Fire season is ramping up and with the recent winds, wildfires could easily ignite. Make sure to cut any tall grass or weeds, trim low hanging branches, clean gutters, and remove debris from around your property.

GardenComm: Garden Communicators International notified Cynthia Brian that out of 160 entries, she won the 2020 Media Awards Silver Medal of Achievement for a Journalism Newspaper Article, the Lamorinda Weekly article, Scary, scary night.

Read the article to help you prepare your landscaping for fire resistance. With this Covid-19 pandemic, the smoke from wildfires has the potential to be extra dangerous or deadly. Read Scary,scary nightat https://www.lamorindaweekly.com/archive/issue1318/Digging-Deep-with-Goddess-Gardener-Cynthia-Brian-Scary-scary-night.html

Read about the award here:

http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/cynthia-brian-receives-silver-medal-of-achievement-in-the-national-2020-gardencomm-media-awards-1296930.htm#

Get in touch with the outdoors, nature, and gardening.

Be prepared. Stay safe this summer.

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

About Us: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/about_us

Programs: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/programs

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

Blog: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/blog-1

Events: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/events

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

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

Classified Ads:

If you’d like to advertise your service or product while supporting Be the Star You Are!®, we are now accepting approved ads that will benefit readers. Contact info@BetheStarYouAre.org for details.

GET SOCIAL

FACEBOOK

https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/

TWITTER

https://twitter.com/BetheStarYouAre

Keep your face to the sunshine and you won’t see the shadows. Stay strong and resilient,

Sending sunshine, sunsets, and starlight. SHINE!

You will survive summer!

Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3

PO Box 376

Moraga, Ca.94556

www.BetheStarYouAre.org

www.BTSYA.org

Celebrate Life and Freedom!

Posted by

presspass on July 6, 2020

Empowerment

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July 3, 2020

Short, Sweet, Free

Celebrate Life!


MIRACLE MOMENT® “Just living isn’t enough,” said the butterfly. “One must also have sunshine, freedom, and a little flower.” Hans Christian Andersen It’s the 4th of July weekend and I know you want to be outside, even if you are alone, sheltering-in-place, wearing a mask when you walk, and remembering the “good ‘ole days” before pandemic. Much has happened since our last newsletter, but I’ll make our announcements short and sweet. 1, For Middle Schoolers: Check out The Hope Challenge (Helping Our Passions Emerge) from student-led nonprofit, Seattle Advocates for Education (seattleadvocatesfe.org/): The HOPE Challenge is a free entrepreneurship competition for middle school students, providing an opportunity for students to learn entrepreneurship by allowing their ideas to come to life. The PROMPT: Develop a solution that seeks to solve an arising problem that COVID-19 has created. Students are expected to respond to the prompt by submitting an elevator pitch video (1-3 minutes) proposing their product or service. View the Competition Guidelines to learn what to include in your video! Visit the website https://www.thehopechallenge.org for more info. Deadline soon. Win awards from $25-200. 2. New Teen Reporter: Welcome to our awesome new reporter on Express Yourself! Teen Radio, Andrea Smith. Her segment is titled, In the Spotlight. Andrea is a senior at Santa Margarita Catholic High School in Southern CA. She loves swimming and participating in everything ocean related. She is also extremely passionate about Model United Nations and knows the ins and outs of living a happy and healthy lifestyle! www.ExpressYourselfTeenRadio.com 3. Thank You: The California Humanities and the National Endowment for the Humanities as part of the Cares Act have just awarded me a small grant to continuing producing Super Smart Sundays on Express Yourself! Teen Radio showcasing authors, musicians, artists, actors, creatives, and more who have had their work, appearances, concerts, etc. cancelled during this pandemic. My paid personal appearances have all been canceled and I know how they feel. I’m thrilled to be able to support fellow artists. 4. Free Women’s Summit: Want to find your superpower? REGISTER for the FREE Passions into Profits Women’s Summit hosted by Jane Applegath at http://JaneApplegath.com. Be the heroine of your own epic life. Watch and learn from a league of leaders and trailblazers to help you to lead a life you love.Your dreams can be your reality! I was the featured guest on June 25th and Jane is incredible FREE registration, http://www.janeapplegath.com. 5. WEDNESDAYS with Writers and SUPER SMART SUNDAYS 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!® have collaborated with the Authors Guild to showcase the new books launched by many authors from around the country in a variety of genres. We are showcasing artists, actors, and musicians, 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 both StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® on Wednesdays at 4pm PT for “Writers Wednesdays” 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 Both programs broadcast on the Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel and will be archived on that site as well as iTunes, Stitcher, etc. 6. Summer Reading Our Star Teen Book Review Team is busy reading and writing reviews for you to enjoy this summer. Reviews are honest and the personal experience of each writer. Check them out at our website, http://www.btsya.com/book_reviews.html, and at our partner, The Reading Tub, https://thereadingtub.org/books/be-the-star-you-are/. Many thanks to our Book Review Coordinator, Stephanie Cogeos, for keeping us on track. If you are interested in joining our team and you are genuinely interested in being of service to others, you can find the info at http://www.btsya.com/book_reviews.html 7. Nurture with Nature If you need a bit of sunshine and flowers, visit https://www.cynthiabrian.com/gardening where you’ll find loads of photos and gardening articles (https://www.cynthiabrian.com/gardening-articles) that will inspire you to get off the couch, power down the gadgets, and enjoy nature bathing. Before I leave you to your popsicles and barbecues, I want to repeat what Beyonce said when she received her Humanitarian Award recently “vote like our life depends on it.” Voting is our ultimate freedom to choose. It’s FREE. Just do it. Have a healthy, safe, and happy Independence Day. Care, share, be fair. Celebrate Life. Living with gratitude, Cynthia Brian Founder/Executive Director Be the Star You Are!® PO Box 376 Moraga, California 94556 Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org http://www.BTSYA.org 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


THE IMPORTANCE OF BLACK LIVES MATTER All Lives Matter should be true but it is a current lie. This is why it’s important to emphasize that Black Lives Matter. I’m not sure that it would make some people feel more comfortable if it were neatly wrapped in a box, tied with a bow, and titled titled Black Lives Matter Too. Which is the problem. Why does Black Lives Matter make some people feel uncomfortable? Those who operate in treating people fairly have the hardest time grasping this. Perhaps they have a naïve interpretation of the world by having been sheltered. Perhaps they have developed a defense mechanism to cope. In their minds it’s, “Hey, if 7 out of 7 billion people in the world are good then all people are good.” A clear mathematical imbalance. The Black Lives Movement has demonstrated it is more powerful than any opposition. We have joined together with Caucasian, Asian, African, Latino and all Lives around the world to make this statement a giant. Let’s do the right thing and respect each other, protest peacefully, and appreciate one another. Black people here in Washington D.C. where I live, were wrought with pain over the death of George Floyd. Once the protests calmed, for once in my life, my black experience was that Black Lives Mattered. My own people were more conscious of being kind to each other by intentionally supporting one another’s businesses. We even look at each other totally different now. For a long time I’ve been mistreated by my own race. For the first time, I can see a different soul in the eyes of my people. This matters to me. We have become the Black Lives that Matter to Black Lives. Priscilla Mac is volunteer with Be the Star You Are!® and Christian Television Talk Show Host of a program called “Still Learning Still Developing” which airs on Preach The Word Worldwide Network.During her 5 years of service in the U.S. Army she specialized in Logistics and is currently a Digital Systems Analyst for Voice of America International Broadcasting.. www.priscillamac.com PLEASE DONATE Since 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 Classified Ads: If you’d like to advertise your service or product while supporting Be the Star You Are!®, we are now accepting approved ads that will benefit readers. Contact info@BetheStarYouAre.org for details. GET SOCIAL FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ TWITTER https://twitter.com/BetheStarYouAre TUMBLR https://bethestaryouareradio.tumblr.com BTSYA BLOG https://www.bethestaryouare.org/blog-1 Happy 4th of July! Be Safe! Be Smart! Be Strong! Be the Star You Are!® PO Box 376 Moraga, California 94556 Info@BetheStarYouAre.org https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org http://www.BTSYA.org CELEBRATE LIFE!	A SWELTERING SUMMER DAY Some call it a sweltering summer day. I like to call it a scattering kindness opportunity! What kid, of any age, doesn’t smile with their first lick of a frozen popsicle on a very hot day? You can be a super hero by simply picking up a box of popsicles and searching for a nearby shelter to drop them off. Hint — shelters are everywhere. You’ll feel cooler just imagining when the paper comes off that first popsicle. Give a kid joy and sweetness today! 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 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 About Us: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/about_us Programs: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/programs How to Help: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/how-to-help Blog: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/blog-1 Events: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/events Contact us: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/contact 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

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Info@BetheStarYouAre.org

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

UNITE FOR HUMAN DIGNITY

Posted by

presspass on June 9, 2020

Empowerment

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Become Color Blind

	MIRACLE MOMENT®
“When ordinary life shackles me, I escape, one way or another. No more walls.” Anais Nin
	MESSAGE FROM CYNTHIA BRIAN, Founder/Executive Director
“You are so lucky! You have red blood!” my mother chimed when, as children, any of us would injure ourselves and be bleeding. We’d immediately stop crying and be grateful that our red blood meant that we were humans and not some form of alien. We were taught that every person was equal. No one was better or worse than anyone else and that no matter what color our skin, what God we worshipped, what gender we were, where we came from, or what language we spoke, we all deserved the opportunity to succeed and be happy. We were taught to work hard, respect others, and live by the golden rule. “Care, share, and be fair” was a family motto. The last few weeks have been tragic for humans. Not only is the world struggling to survive a pandemic with Covid-19, but the death of an unarmed Black man, George Floyd, by an officer sworn to protect and serve us, has struck a deep wound in our global consciousness. Our hearts go out to his family and friends and to all the other people who have endured racist encounters. Fear and pain are prevailing. There is no place for racism and bigotry in our country. We are all human. Here at Be the Star You Are!®, we are inclusive. We are blind to any color and respect and welcome everyone-black, brown, yellow, beige, white, and any color in between. Be the Star You Are!® supports all ethnicity’s, genders, cultures, and has no religious or political agendas or affiliations. Our goal is to amplify your inner greatness and help you be the best person possible by improving literacy, increasing positive media messages, and offering tools for living a purposeful life. Protesting is our right as Americans and peaceful protests are valuable. Looting and rioting is counter-productive and only leads to more violence, hatred, and alienation. It is time that we all stopped to listen and hear what others are saying and feeling. We must empathize and start conversations that can lead to healing. I have always believed that ALL LIVES MATTER. But right now, we need to embrace BLACK LIVES MATTER because black men and black women are suffering deeply. Our volunteer Karen Kitchel, shared a video that you may have already watched, but it is worth viewing again. It displays the disparity between a life of privilege and one of racial inequality. Watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5BEwiqrXrjw No one must be shackled. It’s time to break down the walls of differences. We must come together to create positive, systemic change that will provide dignity, respect, opportunities, and resources to all. We can each be a catalyst for change. Once we learn to communicate and collaborate, we will escape to innovate. Be the Star You Are!® is proud to have been serving the community, country, and world since 1999 with resources to create a better future. Unite for dignity and be color brave. We all bleed red. Stay safe. Stay strong. In solidarity, Cynthia Brian Founder/Executive Director Be the Star You Are!® PO Box 376 Moraga, California 94556 Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org http://www.BTSYA.org P.S. During the lock-down, I am available for consultations, webinars, interviews, or speaking via on-line sources only. If interested, email cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org or visit https://www.starstyleradio.com/coaching DONATE: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504 ONLINE AUCTION If you want to jumpstart your business, service, or promote your products, IConnectx has created an online auction to benefit Be the Star You Are!® with opportunities for LIVe or pre-recorded radio interviews and phone or online consultations with Cynthia Brian. More auction items will be added in the following days. Auction ends on June 20th so start bidding right away to win. Visit: https://bit.ly/2ZuIQkE
	THE REAL MEANING OF DIGNITY
by Karen Kitchel “Dignity has the potential to change the world, but only if people like you help to spread its profound message” concluded Donna Hicks in the Psychology Today article “What Is the Real Meaning of Dignity?” We are all born with dignity, which is different than respect which must be earned. Every individual has worth as a human being and wants to be treated as someone with value. Everyone wants to be heard and to feel safe in the world. When we feel included, we gain a sense of hope and possibility. Receiving an apology when someone does us harm is a way to reconnect. “I’m sorry” can be two of the most powerful words anyone can utter. Building strong relationships can be as easy as asking for opinions, listening to concerns and including others in conversations. Seek out someone you don’t know and take a step in changing the world. Karen Kitchel penned two chapters in the book, Be the Star You Are! Millennials to Boomers Celebrating Gifts of Positive Voices in a Changing Digital World, and is a dedicated volunteer with BTSYA. She serves meals to the homeless and is a volunteer teacher, writer, job coach, and mentor. www.scatteringkindness.com THE IMPACT OF ILLITERACY-Young Children by Stephanie Cogeos According to a recent study by the U.S. Department of Education, 32 million American adults are illiterate, 21% read below a 5^th grade level and 19% of high school graduates are functionally illiterate, meaning they cannot read well enough to manage and perform daily living tasks. This can be avoided when people are aware of these statistics and what lack of literacy skills can cause. When children do not learn to read and write effectively, it affects them and their families. The psychological effect impacts their progress during their early school years. It can also make math and science just as difficult. About 80% of a child’s brain is developed by age 3 and a key period of development occurs in their language and literacy skills. The quality of early childhood education can be determined by one’s economic status. Half of all children by age 5 living in poverty are not academically or socially ready for school, studies have shown (Center on Children and Families at Brookings). Poverty is a risk factor for illiteracy. By fourth grade, 80% of low-income children read at below grade level. Falling behind during critical years will also affect social skills, health and economic status later in their lives. Low literacy often impacts a person’s health, preventative healthcare actions and taking medications correctly as well as impacting them psychologically. Shame, fear, low self-confidence, low self-esteem are all impacted by how well a person can effectively communicate and read and educate themselves. All these things can have a negative impact on society in general. These things can be avoided. CONTINUE READING: https://files.secure.website/wscfus/10307163/26270304/the-impact-of-illiteracy.pdf Volunteer Stephanie Cogeos is our Book Review coordinator. She is now doing research to provide resources for the public to learn about the importance of literacy, positive media messages, and empowering women families, and youth. You can keep up with the resources at this link: http://www.btsya.com/resources.html “To be a leader, you must be a reader! Read, lead, succeed!” BOOK REVIEWS IDS Our Star Teen Book Review Team is constantly growing and evolving. When you are looking a for a great book, check out the reviews of thousands of books for all ages at our Book Review web site. Read book reviews by our volunteers: http://www.btsya.com/book_reviews.html Also, check out these and other reviews at our literacy partner site,The Reading Tub, https://thereadingtub.org/books/be-the-star-you-are/ Librarians, teachers, parents, and care-givers rely on these reviews as excellent sources for recommending a good book. WRITER WEDNESDAYS and SUPER SMART SUNDAYS As part of our Be the Star You Are! Disaster Relief Outreach program (https://www.bethestaryouare.org/copy-of-operation-hurricane-disaste), Be the Star You Are!® has collaborated with the Authors Guild to showcase the new books launched by many authors from around the country in a variety of genres. We will also be showcasing artists, actors, and musicians, all of whom had had their gigs canceled and are out of work. We believe in supporting creativity and believe that books, art, music, and film provide escape and joy, especially during tough times. For the next few months, make sure you are tuned in to both StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® on Wednesdays at 4pm PT for “Writers Wednesdays” 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 Both programs broadcast on the Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel and will be archived on that site as well as iTunes, Stitcher, etc. It’s a giant artistic festival! DONATE TO OPERATION DISASTER RELIEF TO KEEP POSITIVE MEDIA ALIVE! NEED A POSITIVE OUTLOOK-BUY OUR BOOKS! If you need a dose of inspiration, humor, and positivity, check out our books at http://www.StarStyleStore.net. All of the money from purchases benefits Be the Star You Are!® and you get extra goodies when you buy direct. Plus, these are first editions and can be custom autographed for you. www.StarStyleStore.Net Raise your eyes to the STARS and shine! 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. BTSYA Logo Store: http://btsya.rylees.net 7. Buy or Sell on EBAY:http://givingworks.ebay.com/charity-auctions/charity/be-the-star-you-are-501-c-3/1504/?favorite=link 8. Designer Clothes to Buy or Sell: https://www.unionandfifth.com/charities/be-the-star-you-are-moraga-ca/shop 9. Buy “Read, Lead, Succeed” T-shirts and tanks $19.99 at StarStyle® Store: http://www.starstylestore.net/ 10. Are you a gamer, lover of new software, or other digital content? Buy all of your favorites at Humble Bundle. http://ow.ly/cYs130iN6n4 PLEASE DONATE! Since 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 Direct Links you can use for Be the Star You Are!® Positive Results: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/positive-results About Us: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/about_us Programs: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/programs How to Help: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/how-to-help Blog: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/blog-1 Events: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/events Contact us: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/contact 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 Be Color Brave. Unite for Diversity and Dignity. Communicate, Collaborate, Innovate! Be the Star You Are!® PO Box 376 Moraga, California 94556 Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

Be the Star You Are!® PO Box 376, Moraga, Ca. 94556

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REMEMBER THOSE WHO SERVE!

Posted by

presspass on May 26, 2020

Empowerment

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May 22, 2020

REMEMBER!

Happy Memorial Day Weekend!


MIRACLE MOMENT® “You will be remembered forever by the tracks you leave.”~ Navajo saying MESSAGE FROM CYNTHIA BRIAN, Founder/Executive Director “Have a great holiday weekend!” Josh, our Voice America Radio engineer said to me after our broadcast on Wednesday. “Holiday?” I retorted. “What holiday?” “It’s Memorial Day…BBQ time,” responded josh. Wow! I had totally forgotten about Memorial Day as we enter our 11th week of lock-down amidst this Covid-19 virus. Like most people, Memorial Day has always been a day of remembrance and a harbinger of the summer to come. In normal times, I celebrate with a BBQ with family and friends or enjoy a three day weekend get-away. Not this year! On Monday, May 25th, 2020, my husband and I will honor the occasion in our backyard being grateful for health and remembering all the great occasions we have shared with others over the years. There is a silver lining to this pandemic. I believe that people are appreciating family, friends, health, work, and simple daily routines more than ever before. It’s so easy to take life for granted, until we don’t have a life. During sheltering-at-home, why not start growing your own food or plant pretty flowers to elevate your mood? If you want to start gardening or learn more about it, check out any of these published articles. Get outside, exercise, breathe, and live. On Tuesday, May 26, 2020, get a dose of inspiration and energy to boost your business and your life with a broadcast I did on Business Access with host Thiago De Souza. Here’s the link which will be LIVE on May 26th, but not before!: https://business-access-by-tdimage.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-4-cynthia-brian?t=0m0s Bid on our online auction to promote your business, services, and products through June 20. More items will be added in the next week by iConnectx. Visit https://bit.ly/2ZuIQkE Coronavirus has stopped the world. Perhaps now we will treasure one another more and understand the importance of taking care of our planet. We are on borrowed time. Since most of the globe has been sheltering-in-place, our earth is healing. In the next month as places open and people return to work, we must remember with clarity these past three months and do our part to save our species. While we thank our Armed Forces for their sacrifice and service on Memorial Day, we salute First Responders, Doctors, Nurses, Paramedics, and those in the front lines helping others through this rabid Covid-19, including Grocery Store Clerks, Postal Workers, Delivery Drivers, and all Essential Service Employees. We never realized how many people are necessary to make our world function. Thank you to our veterans, active service members, first responders, and our healthcare heroes. When the crisis has ceased, life as we know it will be different. Let’s not forget any lessons learned. Let’s be vigilant, caring, respectful, kind, and grateful. Let’s leave tracks of hope and love. Enjoy your weekend. Let’s Remember. Stay safe. Stay strong. Stay sane. Stay home. In solidarity, Cynthia Brian Founder/Executive Director Be the Star You Are!® PO Box 376 Moraga, California 94556 Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org http://www.BTSYA.org P.S. During the lock-down, I am available for consultations, webinars, interviews, or speaking via on-line sources only. If interested, email cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org or visit https://www.starstyleradio.com/coaching DONATE: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504 WRITER WEDNESDAYS & SUPER SMART SUNDAYS As part of our Be the Star You Are! Disaster Relief Outreach program, Be the Star You Are!® has collaborated with the Authors Guild to showcase the new books launched by many authors from around the country in a variety of genres. We will also be showcasing artists, actors, and musicians, all of whom had had their gigs canceled and are out of work. We believe in supporting creativity and believe that books, art, music, and film provide escape and joy, especially during tough times. For the next few months, make sure you are tuned in to both StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® on Wednesdays at 4pm PT for “Writers Wednesdays” 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 See photos and descriptions of the shows and guests at www.BetheStarYouAreRadio.com Both programs broadcast on the Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel and will be archived on that site as well as iTunes, Stitcher, etc. It’s a giant artistic festival!


ONLINE AUCTION If you want to jumpstart your business, service, or promote your products, IConnectx has created an online auction to benefit Be the Star You Are!® with opportunities for LIVe or pre-recorded radio interviews and phone or online consultations with Cynthia Brian. More auction items will be added in the following days. Auction ends on June 20th so start bidding right away to win. Visit: https://bit.ly/2ZuIQkE THE IMPORTANCE OF LITERACY, the Basics by Stephanie Cogeos The basic definition of literacy is the ability to read and write. But it is also the ability to use those skills to understand, interpret, create and communicate effectively. Literacy, in general, is vital to the growth and functioning and development of an individual, a culture, a society. Basic reading skills, starting at an early age, create opportunities for growth and continued learning throughout adulthood. Literacy aids in developing a strong sense of well-being and self-image. It allows one to make better sense of what is being said or written. It gives one the ability to create and contribute to a society. Individuals who are literate can pull themselves out of negative situations or environments. It allows them to work, to learn and find higher job/career opportunities. Individuals who are not literate or have low literacy skills will have problems reading a book/newspaper or even understanding road signs or price labels, a bus timetable, job applications or even labels on medicine bottles. They may not be able to use the internet. Literacy is vital. Literacy also affects peoples’ health and wellbeing. The more knowledge one has and knowing how to use that knowledge is critical in living a healthy and productive life. People without education are more prone to health problems and criminality. Understanding the world around us or at least trying to, is a little easier when one can use language and read and educate oneself and make ones’ own decisions based on what one learns. Our society is very technologically oriented and one can find oneself lost in all of this. The more knowledge one has, the more a person has the ability to learn new skills and improve themselves and keep up with a changing society. There are so many advantages to being literate. It is also fun and enjoyable to be able to learn new things and explore new ideas. Being literate effects many parts of a society and the people in that society. We should do everything we can to combat illiteracy. Read Book Reviews by our Volunteers: http://www.btsya.com/book_reviews.html Volunteer Stephanie Cogeos is our Book Review coordinator. She is now doing research to provide resources for the public to learn about the importance of literacy, positive media messages, and empowering women families, and youth. You can keep up with the resources at this link: http://www.btsya.com/resources.html BOOK REVIEWS for KIDS Our partner, The Reading Tub, publishes thousands of reviews for kids books, many written by BTSYA volunteers. Check it out: https://thereadingtub.org/books/be-the-star-you-are/ LINKS YOU CAN USE Positive Results: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/positive-results About Us: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/about_us Programs: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/programs How to Help: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/how-to-help Blog: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/blog-1 Events: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/events Contact us: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/contact 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 What tracks are you leaving?	BE A LIFELONG LEARNER We are thrilled and grateful to Thiago DeSouza for creating a new video for Be the Star You Are!® based on our mission of encouraging everyone to be a life-long learner. Check out our video on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQUJes2IgfM&feature=youtu.be Cynthia Brian is a guest on Episode 4 of Business Access with Thiago where the motto is “Give Your Business the Mic!” Listen on May 26th at https://business-access-by-tdimage.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-4-cynthia-brian?t=0m0s (The above link won’t work until May 26th or later, or bookmark it) Thiago will be guest on StarStyle® Radio to talk about positivity on July 8th at 4:15pm Pt. Listen at http://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2206/be-the-star-you-are NEED A POSITIVE OUTLOOK-BUY OUR BOOKS! If you need a dose of inspiration, humor, and positivity, check out our books at http://www.StarStyleStore.net. All of the money from purchases benefits Be the Star You Are!® and you get extra goodies when you buy direct. Plus, these are first editions and can be custom autographed for you. www.StarStyleStore.Net Raise your eyes to the STARS and shine! 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. BTSYA Logo Store: http://btsya.rylees.net 7. Buy or Sell on EBAY:http://givingworks.ebay.com/charity-auctions/charity/be-the-star-you-are-501-c-3/1504/?favorite=link 8. Designer Clothes to Buy or Sell: https://www.unionandfifth.com/charities/be-the-star-you-are-moraga-ca/shop 9. Buy “Read, Lead, Succeed” T-shirts and tanks $19.99 at StarStyle® Store: http://www.starstylestore.net/ 10. Are you a gamer, lover of new software, or other digital content? Buy all of your favorites at Humble Bundle. http://ow.ly/cYs130iN6n4 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 Classified Ads: If you’d like to advertise your service or product while supporting Be the Star You Are!®, we are now accepting approved ads that will benefit readers. Contact info@BetheStarYouAre.org for details. REMEMBER to REMEMBER! STAY SAFE! We are in this together while we stay apart.

Tel: (925)-377-STAR

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556
Email: info@BetheStarYouAre.org

www.BTSYA.org

www.BetheStarYouAre.org

May Power Blessings

Posted by

presspass on May 4, 2020

Empowerment

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MIRACLE MOMENT®

“A person of power embraces challenges in complete gratitude. No matter the situation life may bring, discontent is never justified, rather all is experienced as an opportunity and a privilege to adventure and grow.”James Ray,Author and Speaker

MESSAGE FROM CYNTHIA BRIAN

Founder/Executive Director

Happy May! Can you believe we are in week seven of sheltering-at-home. I’m sure everyone is now a gourmet cook, expert cleaner, garden aficionado, Zoomer, and a bit stir crazy. Just how many shows can be binged watched a night?

As for me, I’m great although concerned about keeping Be the Star You Are!® alive after almost 21 years because of lack of donations. The government isn’t helping nonprofits that are all volunteer, like Be the Star You Are!®, even though we have normal business expenses to run our outreach programs. When I founded BTSYA in 1998, I chose to not take a salary and not employ staff so that all donations would totally benefit the programs and people we serve. Who knew that we’d be penalized for being frugal and sustainably sensible?

There is a silver lining! We were thrilled to be notified that we won a $500 grant from the Nonprofits Insurance Alliance Gilbert Fund for our work. Roger Gilbert was a former insurance company CEO who believed in the work of non-profits. THANK YOU Gilbert Fund and NIA for believing in our work.

We also want to recognize Nicholas Donzelli and Green Air for their generous contributions to Be the Star You Are!®. This is the time to “go green”. Contact Green Air for all your energy solutions. I did, and I recommend them 100%. https://www.gogreenair.net Nick’s son, Isaiah was a teen reporter on Express Yourself! Radio and is now a thriving musician. Make sure to listen to his recent interview with a couple of his original songs at https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/119379/play-and-music We are hoping that Isaiah will write a new musical intro for our Express Yourself!™ show.

To support authors with new books and all appearances canceled, we began a new radio series on both StarStyle® and Express Yourself!® See below for more details and tune in. https://www.BetheStarYouAreRadio.com

Here in California we are on lockdown until at least May 31. You’ll find me in the garden or in my barnyard. For a bit of nature inspiration, check out Wild and Free: Press Pass: https://blog.voiceamerica.com/2020/04/30/wild-and-free/ .

Our hearts go out to all the graduates who will not get to “walk” in a ceremony or celebrate all the fun rituals of graduation. Chin up! There will be more awards and traditions for you in the near future. Use this special time for all those projects and ideas that you always said you wanted to instigate but had no time. YOU HAVE TIME NOW! I’m sure you are busy being at home, so I will sign off. Just wanted to say hello.

Find the blessings in the challenges. There is your power. Discover moments of joy. “This, too, shall pass.”

Stay positive. Stay safe. Stay healthy. Stay home. Wear a hazmat suit, if you have one! Find the humor in every moment. It will boost your immune system.

And call your Mother! Remember her on Mother’s Day. Make a donation in her name. I know that besides talking with my kids, a donation is the gift I want for Mother’s Day! https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504

With grace, gratitude, and love,

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

P.S. During the lock-down, I am available for consultations, webinars, interviews, or speaking via on-line sources only. If interested, email cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org or visit https://www.starstyleradio.com/coaching

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

MOMENTS OF JOY

by Karen Kitchell

May we all savor and remember the moments of joy during 2020 so that we can share them with future generations. What I’ve learned during these last few months is when you help others, you are helping yourself. Nothing beats human kindness and compassion to lift your spirits. While self-care is important, other-care can boost your well-being in a big way.

To increase your happiness, consider ideas like these.

Arrange for a local restaurant to deliver pizzas to a domestic abuse shelter
Send a variety of snacks to a homeless shelter via Amazon
Email positive messages to an elderly assisted center
Check the list of needs at a local family shelter
Send “The Book of Joy” by the Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu to someone struggling with job loss or isolation
Make peanut butter cookies and drop them off on a neighbor’s doorstep
Savor the green grass and daffodils like the gift they are from above

While funds are scarce for some of us, others can use their dollars saved from buying less gas or the cups of good coffee that are temporarily out of reach. If you have a time windfall, use it to increase your happiness. Experience one act of generosity followed by a moment of joy.

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

DONATE ON CINCO DE MAYO!

#GivingTuesdayNow is a global day of giving and unity that will take place on May 5, 2020 as an emergency response to the unprecedented need caused by COVID-19. Please help Be the Star You Are!® and our fantastic outreach programs survive by making a donation today.

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

Or send a check to Be the Star You Are!® charity, PO Box 376, Moraga, Ca. 94556.

Let us know if you’d like to be set up to make monthly donations. All are tax-deductible.

WRITER WEDNESDAYS and SUPER SMART SUNDAYS

As part of our Be the Star You Are! COVID-19 Disaster Relief Outreach program, Be the Star You Are!® has collaborated with the Authors Guild to showcase the new books launched by many authors from around the country in a variety of genres. We will also be showcasing artists, actors, and musicians, all of whom had had their gigs canceled and are out of work. We believe in supporting creativity and believe that books, art, music, and film provide escape and joy, especially during tough times. For the next few months, make sure you are tuned in to both StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® on Wednesdays at 4pm PT for “Writers Wednesdays” 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

Both programs broadcast on the Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel and will be archived on that site as well as iTunes, Stitcher, etc. It’s a giant artistic festival!

For information on the line-up, visit http://www.BetheStarYouAreRadio.com

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. BTSYA Logo Store: http://btsya.rylees.net

7. Buy or Sell on EBAY:http://givingworks.ebay.com/charity-auctions/charity/be-the-star-you-are-501-c-3/1504/?favorite=link

8. Designer Clothes to Buy or Sell: https://www.unionandfifth.com/charities/be-the-star-you-are-moraga-ca/shop

9. Buy “Read, Lead, Succeed” T-shirts and tanks $19.99 at StarStyle® Store: http://www.starstylestore.net/

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

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

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

About Us: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/about_us

Programs: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/programs

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

Blog: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/blog-1

Events: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/events

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

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

Classified Ads:
If you’d like to advertise your service or product while supporting Be the Star You Are!®, we are now accepting approved ads that will benefit readers. Contact info@BetheStarYouAre.org for details.

IMay, Pray. Play, Stay!

Be healthy, Be HOME.

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

All donations are 100% Tax Deductible according to law. Thank you!

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

HAPPY EASTER and PASSOVER!

Posted by

presspass on April 13, 2020

Empowerment

Click to view this email in a browser

Happy Easter!

Miracle Moment®

“Just living isn’t enough,” said the butterfly. “One must also have sunshine, freedom, and a little flower.” Hans Christian Andersen

MESSAGE FROM CYNTHIA BRIAN, Founder/Executive Director

It’s three days short of four weeks since I have been at home, sheltering-in-place, and personal distancing. With mask and gloves, I venture to my office in town once a week to pick up the mail. The parking lot is empty of cars as everyone works from home. The numerous items on my “to-do” list have not all been accomplished, although I admit, I may have overreached in my enthusiasm. I’ve been occupied with over two dozen webinars and teleconferences attempting to figure out how to keep the outreach programs of Be the Star You Are!® non-profit alive and viable as donations have shriveled. Online applications, document gathering, organizing paperwork…tedious and time-consuming. Most of you will relate. I’m so appreciative to Screen Actors Guild, The Authors Guild, Network for Good, and California Association of Non Profits for all of the information they have generously provided to help performers, writers, and non-profits survive during this Covid 19 crisis.

Email requests for virtual volunteer opportunities have tripled as people strive to keep their skills honed during work layoffs. Producing our two radio broadcasts takes an enormous amount of time as I attempt to bring valuable information, entertainment, and enlightening guests to the airwaves. I laugh at the preponderance of Linkedin messages from a variety of coaches asking for a telephone chat so they can help me earn seven figures. Right! Maybe I need to send them a link to donate a bit of their riches.

I am so grateful to have a home and a home office. There have been magical experiences because of our quarantine. My husband and I are enjoying virtual costume parties with our kids via FaceTime at sunset. Instead of working crazy, late night schedules at our respective offices, we are actually sitting down together at the table every day to eat dinner. Most evenings we watch a movie or documentary on Netflix. My garden has become my sanctuary because it is in full bloom providing plenty of hope for a brighter tomorrow. I spend hours working in it daily and I’ve had so much fun in the barnyard with my adopted animals. Every day I post a photo from my mini-farm to my social networks with an inspirational note. Sunday, we’ll do a virtual Easter-egg hunt with our family. How marvelous technology is!

I miss working in films and coaching clients in person. I miss seeing my family in the flesh, meeting friends at restaurants, visiting gardens and museums, and going to the theater. Yet, I am happy we are healthy, alive, and thus far, safe. We have sunshine, freedom, and flowers.

This will be a memorable Passover, Holy Week, and Easter for all. Enjoy some of the virtual tours of museums and gardens listed below.

Sending blessings, grace, and smiles.

Stay safe, strong, and keep living in the moment.

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

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

Virtual Visits:

My husband and I were supposed to be celebrating Easter in Prague this year with my Irish/Norwegian penpal from childhood, Nor

a, and her husband. We love to explore museums and gardens together. Unfortunately I won’t be ale to visit Museum Kampa so I took a virtual tour. https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/museum-kampa?hl=en

Here are some links to virtual visits to a few of my favorite museums and gardens in various parts of the world. Experience armchair travel!

Museums:

Van Gogh Museum. Amsterdam: https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/van-gogh-museum?hl=en

RijksMuseum, Amsterdam: https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/rijksmuseum?hl=en

Hermitage, St. Petersburg: https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/the-state-hermitage-museum?hl=en

Musée d’Orsay, Paris: https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/musee-dorsay-paris?hl=en

Palace of Versailles, Versailles: https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/palace-of-versailles?hl=en

Legend of Honor, San Francisco: https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/legion-of-honor?hl=en

deYoung Museum. San Francisco: https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/de-young-museum?hl=en

MOMA, Museum of Modern Art, New York: https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/moma-the-museum-of-modern-art?hl=en

Gardens:

Monet’s Garden, Giverny France: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rjWx2WNXFF4

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BtZ0dcUzGX8

HighGrove Gardens, England: https://artsandculture.google.com/exhibit/igLSEOWqhVHoJw

Keukenhof, Holland: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqMA5s-N1Uw

Butchart Gardens, Canada: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OoxcZBuf900

Brooklyn Botanical Gardens Cherry Watch, United States: https://www.bbg.org/collections/cherries

National Trust Gardens, England, Ireland: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lists/virtual-tours-of-our-places

Other Entertainment

1.For teens, by teens, Express Yourself!™ Radio hosts and reporters continue to interview fantastic guests. Listen to 9 years of incredible interviews : https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2014/express-yourself

Lots of exciting guests are lined up to talk about new books, food, climate, medicine, spirituality, the future, and more. Make sure to listen to BTSYA volunteer and host, Brigitte Jia’s meditative hour on Quarantine Communication and Contemplation, https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/122978/quarantine-communication-and-contemplation-with-brigitte-jia

For information on new weekly episodes and guests, visit https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio

2. Lifestyle radio programming at its best, StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® offers you over 728 hours of LIVE uplifting, informative, empowering broadcasts showcasing celebrities, authors, successperts, and the pioneers the planet. https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2206/be-the-star-you-are

Tune in to our Passover and Easter Broadcast

Beginning on Wednesday, April 15 at 4:30pm PT, join us for Wine Wednesdays with sommelier and BTSYA volunteer, Heather Brittany. Each week we’ll raise a glass and learn about a different varietal. We can all use a little vino during this down time and Heather Brittany brings us the party to put the bloom on the doom. It’s Wine Time! Salute!

Don’t miss our many excellent authors who will be on our programs.

New LIVE shows every Wednesday from 4-5pm PT: https://www.starstyleradio.com/starstyle-radio

3. If you love behind-the-scenes of movies, TV shows, and more, The SAG Foundation offers Conversations with numerous actors, directors, casting people, and more. The content is free and fabulous but you can also donate: https://www.youtube.com/user/SAGFoundation

4. If you love nature and gardening, a plethora of gardening articles:

https://www.cynthiabrian.com/gardening-articles

Our last newsletter had numerous ways to entertain yourselves during our stay-at-home mandate. If you missed it, here’s a link to Press Pass: https://blog.voiceamerica.com/2020/03/30/theres-no-place-like-home/

2. Discounted books at Amazon: http://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. BTSYA Logo Store: http://btsya.rylees.net

7. Buy or Sell on EBAY:http://givingworks.ebay.com/charity-auctions/charity/be-the-star-you-are-501-c-3/1504/?favorite=link

8. Designer Clothes to Buy or Sell: https://www.unionandfifth.com/charities/be-the-star-you-are-moraga-ca/shop

9. Buy “Read, Lead, Succeed” T-shirts and tanks $19.99 at StarStyle® Store: http://www.starstylestore.net/

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

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

Classified Ads:

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

About Us: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/about_us

Programs: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/programs

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

Blog: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/blog-1

Events: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/events

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

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

WISHING YOU A BLESSED PASSOVER AND EASTER.

We are still here…apart yet together. Stay healthy and safe. Add sunshine flowers to your life.

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

All donations are 100% Tax Deductible according to law. Thank you!

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

Read it all at

http://hosted.verticalresponse.com/672296/318e3a3a8c/288055965/bbd34d3431/

There’s No Place Like Home

Posted by

presspass on March 30, 2020

Empowerment

Click to view this email in a browser

Miracle Moment®

“There’s no place like home” Dorothy Gale, The Wizard of Oz

MESSAGE FROM CYNTHIA BRIAN, Founder/Executive Director

How are you doing? How is your family? Are you safely ensconced at home? How is that going? In our lifetimes, there has never been a global pandemic like what we are experiencing with the coronavirus Covid-19. Hang in there! We will get through this.

One of my all-time favorite films is The Wizard of Oz. The book and the movie have so many critical life lessons and one of the most important is to appreciate what we already have.

In California, on March 19, our Governor Gavin Newsom issued a stay-at-home order to protect the health and well-being of all Californians and to establish consistency across the state in order to slow the spread of COVID-19. The order outlined a few essential services that could remain open including medical facilities, pharmacies, gas stations, banks, laundromats, and some government agencies. Schools and universities are closed. Most companies, restaurants, stores, and businesses are shuttered. Freeways are almost empty, many parks, trails, and beaches are closed. Everyone is mandated to maintain a personal distance of six feet from another person. Living in the Twilight Zone has become a reality.

Our Be the Star You Are!® and StarStyle® offices closed on March 12 and will continue to be closed until the shelter-in-place decree is lifted. There is financial loss and, like others, I am concerned about paying the rent, utilities, and expenses, personally, professionally, and for Be the Star You Are®. However, I am grateful to have a comfortable home office and library from which I can work. The numerous personal projects on my To-Do list are finally getting attention. Because I am spending so many hours in my garden, it has never looked better, and my barnyard of adopted animals keeps me very grounded and occupied. Farm chores are never-ending. Home is where my heart is and I am thankful, despite the dire circumstances, to be spending time in peaceful isolation.

Not everyone is happy about the command to remain at home, especially if it is not possible to work from home. We all miss seeing family, friends, and co-workers. We yearn to go out to dinner, theater, events, and parties. Life has changed very suddenly and each day can be scary, confusing, and debilitating.

My husband’s office is closed. He wants to go to work. He worries for his patients, staff, and the people. Income loss is a major stress point and he fears that his practice may not survive this crisis. It is hard when the work one does is not doable remotely,

Everyone is in the same predicament. This morning the publisher of the wonderful newspaper for which I write, The Lamorinda Weekly, announced that this week’s publication will be the last until advertising revenue return. All of my in-person speaking bookings have been canceled. Many companies have or may have to close their doors, never to reopen.The trickle down affects each of us negatively. Employers and employees are struggling to find equitable solutions to survive this emergency.

As a literacy and empowerment non-profit, we want to do our part to provide resources to entertain, instruct, and uplift you during these very challenging and stressful times. Reading is a relaxing and rewarding way to pass productive time while at home.

Publisher’s Weekly said it best, “As more families shift to manage their studies and work remotely, and Americans seek both information and escape, we are proud and heartened to find books are the source that will sustain us through this challenging moment. From the authors, agents, publishers, and everyone who helps create them, to the readers who turn their pages, we’re grateful for you all.”

Here are FREE RESOURCES that will help sustain you and your family through our home stays.

1. Books for everyone from the Association of American Publishers:https://publishers.org/aap-news/covid-19-response/

2. Book Reviews written by our volunteers for all genres of books to help parents, librarians, and teachers: http://www.btsya.com/book_reviews.html

3. From our literacy partner, The Reading Tub, book reviews and recommendations, bringing literacy home to families: https://thereadingtub.org/books/be-the-star-you-are/

4. From our favorite kids author,Brooks Olbrys, a narrated video for ages 4-8 of the first five chapters of The Adventures of Blue Ocean Bob#1- A Journey Begins: https://blueoceanbob.com/pages/book-videos

“Decide what you love, what excites and inspires,

then make that your purpose and watch what transpires.” Doc, the Turtle

5. If you love nature and gardening, a plethora of gardening articles:https://www.cynthiabrian.com/gardening-articles

If there was ever a time to stop and smell the roses, that time is now!

6. For teens, by teens, Express Yourself!™ Radio hosts and reporters continue to interview fantastic guests. Listen to 9 years fantastic interviews : https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2014/express-yourself

Recent guests include Mega Best Selling Author Dr. Bernie Siegel, Start-Ups guru Trevor Blake, Branding Expert Priya Florence Shaw, and coming April 5, author Jennifer Keishin Armstrong will discuss Pop Star Goddesses with 35 of our favorite musical stars.

For information on new weekly episodes and guests, visit https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio

7. Lifestyle radio programming at its best, StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® offers you 728 hours of LIVE uplifting, informative, empowering broadcasts showcasing celebrities, authors, successperts, and the pioneers the planet. https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2206/be-the-star-you-are

Tune in on April 8th for a celebration of Passover and Easter and a stroll through Monet’s Garden.

Beginning on Wednesday, April 15 at 4:30pm PT, join us for Wine Wednesdays with sommelier, Heather Brittany. Each week we’ll raise a glass and learn about a different varietal. We can all use a little vino during this down time and Heather Brittany brings us the party to put the bloom on the doom. It’s Wine Time! Salute!

New LIVE shows every Wednesday from 4-5pm PT: https://www.starstyleradio.com/starstyle-radio

8. Find simple ways to bring joy to others with Karen Kitchel’s Scattering Kindness, a short blog that reminds you to smile. https://www.scatteringkindness.com

9. Get inspired with audio and video interviews about purpose, passion, and possibilities: https://www.cynthiabrian.com/interviews-of-cynthia-brian

Other Resources

If you or your business is in need of financial help, low-interest emergency loans are available through the Small Business Administration. https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance

For factual information about Covid-19 visit these sites:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at https://www.cdc.gov

The World Health Organization at https://www.who.int for updates.

For California: https://covid19.ca.gov/stay-home-except-for-essential-needs/#business

As Mr Roger’s said, “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’”

I and everyone affiliated with Be the Star You Are!® are helpers. We are here to support you through this struggle.

Our prayers and gratitude go out to all of the medical workers, first responders, and those on the front lines who are risking their lives to save others. We also send our thanks to the companies and individuals who are stepping up to help procure supplies and to those who work in essential services that must stay open to the public. Make sure to show your appreciation in whatever way you are able to these unsung heroes.

Stay safe. Stay strong. Stay sane. Meditate and Breathe!

Remember, “This, too, shall pass.”

Sending virtual hugs, elbow bumps, and wellness wishes.

Enjoy springtime as you harbor at home!

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

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

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

MORAGA COMMUNITY FAIRE POSTPONED

The May 9th Moraga Community Faire and Family Fun Booth of Be the Star You Are!® have been postponed until the Coronavirus and personal distancing is over. We will keep you posted when a new date has been scheduled. In the meantime, please visit the website of our generous SuperStar Sponsor, GreenAir, your energy solutions company, https://www.gogreenair.net. GreenAir did the solar installation for Cynthia Brian several years ago and she highly recommends this company. Become sustainable,. Go GREEN!

GUIDESTAR 2020 PLATINUM SEAL OF TRANSPARENCY AWARDED to BTSYA

Be the Star You Are!® is committed to the highest level of transparency! Our organization earned the 2020 Platinum Seal of Transparency from Guidestar, showcasing the progress and results we’re making toward our mission! We’re proud to use GuideStar Platinum to share our full and complete story with the world. To reach the Platinum level, we added extensive information to our Nonprofit Profile.

About GuideStar: In February 2019, GuideStar joined forces with Foundation Center

to form Candid, a new 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Today, GuideStar is a service

of Candid. Every year, millions of nonprofits spend trillions of dollars around the world. Candid finds out where that money comes from, where it goes, and why it matters. Through research, collaboration, and training, Candid connects people who want to change the world to the resources they need to do it. Candid’s data tools on nonprofits,foundations, and grants are the most comprehensive in the world. Learn more

at candid.org and on Twitter @CandidDotOrg.

Visit https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org.

Make a tax-deductible donation today!

“Communicate, Collaborate, Innovate!”

SHOPPING ON-LINE!

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

2. Discounted books at Amazon: http://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. BTSYA Logo Store: http://btsya.rylees.net

7. Buy or Sell on EBAY:http://givingworks.ebay.com/charity-auctions/charity/be-the-star-you-are-501-c-3/1504/?favorite=link

8. Designer Clothes to Buy or Sell: https://www.unionandfifth.com/charities/be-the-star-you-are-moraga-ca/shop

9. Buy “Read, Lead, Succeed” T-shirts and tanks $19.99 at StarStyle® Store: http://www.starstylestore.net/

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

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

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

About Us: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/about_us

Programs: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/programs

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

Blog: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/blog-1

Events: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/events

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

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

Home is where the heart is and right now our bodies need to be there, too. There IS no place like home. Stay heathy. Stay HOME.

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

All donations are 100% Tax Deductible according to law. Thank you!

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

Isolation Staycation

Posted by

presspass on March 15, 2020

Empowerment

Isolation StayCation

Miracle Moment®

“Fear less, hope more; Eat less, chew more; Whine less, breathe more; Talk less, say more; Love more, and all good things will be yours.” Swedish Proverb

MESSAGE FROM CYNTHIA BRIAN, Founder/Executive Director

Fortunately, I have lived an entire lifetime without experiencing a crisis of the epic proportions that everyone around the globe is currently encountering. The coronavirus, Covid-19 pandemic is bringing the world to its knees. Our everyday life as we know it has been changed or halted. As more cases are diagnosed daily, people fear the contagion of this potentially deadly disease.

Yes, we all need to prepare, yet we can not panic. Stress and anxiety will lessen the ability of our immune systems to fight any illness.

All of my speaking engagements, travel plans, and in-person meetings and consultations have been cancelled. Fortunately, I can do online coaching, and produce/host my radio broadcasts and write for the newspaper remotely. Many schools, businesses, and offices are closed with students and employees studying and working from home when possible. Store shelves are empty of toilet paper, hand sanitizers, alcohol, bleach, and wipes. It’s a mad, mad world out there.

While heeding the advice of the experts to wash our hands frequently, avoid crowds, postpone non-essential travel, stay home if we have the sniffles, what else can we do in our voluntary quarantine to stay healthy and optimistic during this emergency?

What about viewing this time as a staycation instead of isolation? If you have the privilege of being or working at home, rejoice that you have a home. Use this time to catch up on projects that never seem to get done. Clean out a drawer, organize a closet. Meditate. Read a book that has been sitting on a shelf (or buy brand new, discounted books at http://www.amazon.com/shops/be_the_star_you_are_charity), Write the novel you’ve been dreaming of writing. Bake a cake. Take an on-line course, Walk around the block. FaceTime a friend instead of visiting. Start a journal. Exercise. Plan a picnic inside if the weather is inclement. Dance in the rain. Weed your garden. Pick flowers for an indoor arrangement. Play a game with your kids. Watch a movie. Make a movie. Sit on your porch. Take a nap. Do your taxes. Listen to music. Make music. Relax. Be grateful. You are alive.

These are unsettling and uncertain times as we practice “social distancing.” Yet we are still in control of our individual lives and the well-being of our families. The situation in the United States may get worse before it gets better. Discuss options and if possible, isolate with a staycation. It may not be exactly a vacation, but it is a step in keeping our families secure and well. Don’t spend too much time in fretting in front of screens or TV’s watching what the various media channels report. When we want the facts, stay informed by going directly to the main sources, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and The World Health Organization.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at https://www.cdc.gov

The World Health Organization at https://www.who.int

Stay safe. Stay strong. Stay sane. Smile and Breathe!

Remember, “This, too, shall pass.”

Sending virtual hugs, foot bumps, and healthy hopes.

Happy spring.

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

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

CONGRATULATIONS BE THE STAR YOU ARE!®

This is the honor we received from Great Non Profits in partnerships with Guidestar, The Huffington Post, Techsoup, and VolunteerMatch, GREAT NON PROFITS REVIEWS: https://greatnonprofits.org/org/be-the-star-you-are-inc

Congrats!

You’ve won a spot on the 2020 Top-Rated List!

Congratulations! Be The Star You Are Inc has earned a spot on the 2020 Top Rated List! Your community has shared their inspiring stories about your work. We congratulate you on all of your accomplishments.

A few abbreviated quotes from reviewers:

“I have been working with Be The Star You Are! for almost 8 years, and I am forever grateful for the experiences I gained while volunteering with this nonprofit. Through BTSYA’s radio program, “Express Yourself! Teen Radio,” I was able to gain hands-on experience with writing segments and recording weekly. I became a published author through Be The Star You Are. I have two chapters published in Be the Star You Are! Millennials to Boomers: Celebrating Gifts of Positive Voices in a Changing Digital World. This was an absolute dream come true! BTSYA’s programming has provided an abundance of creative outlets, and I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities I have received through this organization.” Katelyn Darrow

“I’m extremely proud to be able to contribute to BTSYA’s amazing work. Not only does BTSYA reach out to and support countless others, the experience I’ve had working with them as a volunteer has been equally educational and enriching.”

Kenneth Jeon

“Being a reporter and host for Be the Star You Are’s Express Yourself Teen Radio has provided me a platform to empower the youth community and make my voice heard. I have strengthened my communication and professional skills by writing scripts and interviewing various guests.” Siri Phaneendra

IF NOT CANCELED, MARK YOUR CALENDARS

Assuming the Coronavirus “social distancing” rule is lifted by May, Be the Star You Are!® will be hosting a Family Fun booth at the 14th Annual Moraga Community Faire on Saturday, Moraga 9th from 10-3pm and we hope you’ll attend. SuperStar Sponsor is GreenAir, your energy solutions company, https://www.gogreenair.net. The Faire attracts 3500 + attendees with numerous attractions, vendors, Kids zone, food trucks, wine, beer, art, and a classic car show. Be the Star You Are!® is the official face painting center and volunteers will be offering other activities for children, a reading circle, and giving away books to increase literacy. Teen radio personalities will be in attendance and a book signing of our new book, Be the Star You Are! Millennials to Boomers Celebrating Gifts of Positive Voices in a Changing Digital World, are also planned.Families may volunteer to be in the booth and sponsors are encouraged. All donations will be spearheaded for Disaster Relief. For more information, visit https://www.bethestaryouare.org/events email info@bethestaryouare.org.

We plan on a day of memory making! Joins us at the BTSYA Family Fun Day.

TUNE IN! Be Energized!

Our two Be the Star You Are!® radio broadcasts provide entertainment, information, and empowerment in every hour of power. Inspiring guests are lined up to motivate you to attain your goals and live a positive, uplifting life. Listen LIVE to StarStyle® every Wednesday from 4pm PT at https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2206/be-the-star-you-are or catch us on iTunes at https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are!/id669630180?mt=2 . We continue to bring you up-to-the-minute information on the Covid-19 pandemic as well as showcase ideas that will elevate you.For a young adult look at life, listen to Express Yourself!™ Sunday’s at 3pm PT at https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2014/express-yourself or on iTunes at https://itunes.apple.com/podcast/express-yourself!/id481894121?mt=2

Read all about the Be the Star You Are!® Radio broadcasts, guests, reporters, hosts, and more at https://www.StarStyleRadio.com.

Direct Links you can use for Be the Star You Are!®

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

About Us: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/about_us

Programs: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/programs

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

Blog: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/blog-1

Events: http://www.bethestaryouare.org/events

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

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

“When the heart is at peace, the body will be healthy.”

~Chinese proverb

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

All donations are 100% Tax Deductible according to law. Thank you!

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

STAY HEALTHY. STAY SAFE. STAY POSITIVE. STAY HOME.

Be Kind and Share the Love

Posted by

presspass on February 20, 2020

Empowerment

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Miracle Moment®

“The best portion of a good man’s life is his little, nameless, unremembered acts of kindness and of love,” William Wordsworth

MESSAGE FROM CYNTHIA BRIAN, Founder/Executive Director

Call me superstitious, but I’m excited to send this newsletter out exactly on 2-20-2020 at 2:20. It feels like a new beginning!

With February being the month of love, here at Be the Star You Are!® we are spreading love and kindness. 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, and is a dedicated volunteer with BTSYA, writes a blog, Scattering Kindness. She advocates that kindness is contagious, When we find simple ways to spontaneously bring joy to others, we bring joy to the world. (www.scatteringkindness.com). How true this is!

With love in the air, we want to remind each person that she/he is unique. You are a gift to the world. There is no one on this planet that can match your talents, skills, and heart. You are enough just the way you are. You are deserving of love.

We are so excited to have been honored as one of the first non-profits to win the TOP NON-PROFIT award for 2020. And we are super thrilled and grateful that GreenAir, your energy solutions company, (https://www.gogreenair.net) will be our SuperStar Sponsor for our Family Fun Booth at the Moraga Faire this May 9th. Read more below.

Our appreciation is extended to everyone who makes a tax-deductible donation to Be the Star You Are!® via PayPal or check. If you want to make automatic donations, we can set you up to deposit your donation directly into the charity bank account. Every dollar makes a difference in continuing our outreach programs. Give plenty in 2020.

Thanks for being part of our STAR galaxy. Communicate, collaborate, innovate. Everyone counts.

Be your unapologetically authentic self every day. You are a STAR. Share the LOVE!

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

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

Read and Subscribe to our BTSYA Blog:https://www.bethestaryouare.org/blog-1

This is the honor we received from Great Non Profits in partnerships with Guidestar, The Huffington Post, Techsoup, and VolunteerMatch,

Congrats!

You’ve won a spot on the 2020 Top-Rated List!

We appreciate all of your contributions! https://greatnonprofits.org/org/be-the-star-you-are-inc

A few abbreviated quotes from reviewers:

“My volunteering experience had a profound impact on me, and continues to inspire me in my career as an author. This selfless organization should be recognized and lauded for the incredible impact it makes daily.”

Dani Wong

“The organization participates in a diverse set of efforts and initiatives that promote positive media messaging, support natural disaster relief, and empower youth. Absolutely a great nonprofit worthy of five stars!”

Joven Hundal

“Incredible as always, every year! Cynthia Brian and Be the Star You Are reach so many people in need of positivity and support. I’m proud to call myself a volunteer and I hope to see BTSYA continue its great work for many years to come!”

Brigitte Jia

“I am forever thankful for everything BTSYA has offered me over the years. This organization deserves all the recognition and support!”

Rachel Glass

TUNE IN!

For a young adult look at life, listen to Express Yourself!™ Sunday’s at 3pm PT at https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2014/express-yourselfor on iTunes at https://itunes.apple.com/podcast/express-yourself!/id481894121?mt=2

Read all about the Be the Star You Are!® Radio broadcasts, guests, reporters, hosts, and more at https://www.StarStyleRadio.com.

SHOPPING ALL YEAR ROUND?

Other easy ways that assist our mission and don’t cost you a penny!

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

2. Discounted books at Amazon: http://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. BTSYA Logo Store: http://btsya.rylees.net

7. Buy or Sell on EBAY:http://givingworks.ebay.com/charity-auctions/charity/be-the-star-you-are-501-c-3/1504/?favorite=link

8. Designer Clothes to Buy or Sell: https://www.unionandfifth.com/charities/be-the-star-you-are-moraga-ca/shop

9. Buy “Read, Lead, Succeed” T-shirts and tanks $19.99 at StarStyle® Store: http://www.starstylestore.net/

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

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

Direct Links you can use for Be the Star You Are!®

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

About Us: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/about_us

Programs: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/programs

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

Blog: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/blog-1

Events: http://www.bethestaryouare.org/events

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

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

Classified Ads:

Share the LOVE! Scatter KINDNESS!

Give plenty in 2020!

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

All donations are 100% Tax Deductible according to law. Thank you!

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

Be a Reader!

Posted by

presspass on January 26, 2020

Empowerment

Read the newsletter: http://hosted.verticalresponse.com/672296/86ec9e558f/288055965/ac7221bc2f/

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Miracle Moment®

“To be a leader, you must be a reader.” Read, lead, succeed!” Cynthia Brian, Be the Star You Are!® slogan

THE POWER OF RE

RE Cynthia Brian Power of RE corrected 300dpi

Kathy Boyle created this inspirational poster after reading the article The Power of Re. Thanks Kathy.

Aging With Grace

by Karen Kitchel

Aging gracefully begins with admitting that things have changed. We cannot live as things were in the past. That’s the message, retired priest, Father Bob Schwartz, presents when speaking about transitions in later life.

In youth, he says, we lay the foundation for our life. The first season is often struggling to get our lives going. This is a season of being heavily dependent on others. The second season is about giving our lives away in serving others, whether it’s family or contributing to the world of church, work, or culture. The third season of our lives is about leaving a legacy. We identify the meaning of our lives and share that as a gift to others whom we leave behind.

The final stage of life is about finding out who we really are. This might also be the first time in our life when we do what we like to do. Be thankful for the memories, and rejoice in the way life is now.

Research has proven that the happiest age group of all is the elderly. Why is that? Maybe because it’s a more peaceful existence, and we know it’s okay to slow down. When we age gracefully, we live with the wisdom of all of our life experiences.

www.scatteringkindness.com

Direct Links you can use for Be the Star You Are!®

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

About Us: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/about_us

Programs: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/programs

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

Blog: https://www.bethestaryouare.org/blog-1

Events: http://www.bethestaryouare.org/events

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

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

Classified Ads:

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

All donations are 100% Tax Deductible according to law. Thank you!

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

Give plenty in 2020!

BE A 2020 READER

MESSAGE FROM CYNTHIA BRIAN, Founder/Executive Director

Happy, happy New Year!

I blinked and another year has passed. It seems that the year 2000 was only yesterday, and here we are in 2020 with Be the Star You Are!® halfway through 21 years of global service actively working to increase literacy and positive media messages to empower women, families, and youth.

Did you know that only one in five adults in the United States reads more than 12 books a year? According to research done by the Authors Guild, the publishing industry caters mostly to that 20% of readers. Becoming an avid reader is essential for life success and if children between the ages five and twelve aren’t captivated by books, they will not become life long readers. As a nation, it is imperative to ignite the love of books early on and continue to give books as gifts and incentives.

You’ll find a plethoras of exciting, brand new books for all ages offered through our Amazon store at http://www.amazon.com/shops/be_the_star_you_are_charity and also our signature books at http://www.starstylestore.net/. All sales from these two sites benefit BTSYA as a donation.

2020 is also the year to embrace the power of RE. Renew, refresh, redo, recycle, repurpose, remake, and the list of “re” continues as we must all remember to be conscientious stewards of our planet. . Read two articles I wrote this month that will encourage you to reclaim your motivation to dream green.

The Power of Re: http://lamorindanews.com/archive/issue1323/Digging-Deep-with-Cynthia-Brian-Garden-Trends-for-2020-Part-1-The-power-of-RE.html

Dream Green: https://blog.voiceamerica.com/2020/01/22/dream-green/

TUNE IN!

For a young adult look at life, listen to Express Yourself!™ Sunday’s at 3pm PT at https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2014/express-yourself or on iTunes at https://itunes.apple.com/podcast/express-yourself!/id481894121?mt=2

Read all about the Be the Star You Are!® Radio broadcasts, guests, reporters, hosts, and more at https://www.StarStyleRadio.com.

2020, the Year of the Rat, will be a productive year filled with possibilities. Make it happen for you.

Thanks for being part of our STAR galaxy.

Give plenty in 2020.

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

http://www.BTSYA.org

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

Millennials and Boomers Give the Gift that Keeps on Giving

From the time she was a little girl, Katelyn Darrow dreamed of becoming a published author. Currently a journalism student at UCLA and radio host on Express Yourself!™, Katelyn achieved her goal by penning two chapters in the new book, Be the Star You Are! Millennials to Boomers Celebrating Gifts of Positive Voices in a Changing Digital World. Over the holidays she gifted autographed books to numerous people, including volunteers at the charity she founded, Angels Community Outreach in New Jersey.

She writes “everyone agreed how the compilation was perfect for all ages (millennials to boomers, of course!)”

Wife of forty-five years, mother of eight, and grandmother to thirteen, writer and host of the podcast WOWMOM, Ellen Mongan, is one busy lady. She contributed the chapter, The Gift of Wings, in Be the Star You Are! Millennials to Boomers Celebrating Gifts of Positive Voices in a Changing Digital World to help readers know that the sky is the limit. Ellen has given autographed copies to families and friends and reports that “people LOVE this book!”

No matter when you were born, you, too, will find relatable true tales and inspirational stores of challenge and triumphs in all of the three books in the Be the Star You Are!® series. Each chapter is short and succinct, yet packed with motivation. 100% of the proceeds benefit Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3 as a donation when you purchase from http://www.starstylestore.net/.

SHOPPING ALL YEAR ROUND?

Other easy ways that assist our mission and don’t cost you a penny!

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

2. Discounted books at Amazon: http://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. BTSYA Logo Store: http://btsya.rylees.net

7. Buy or Sell on EBAY:http://givingworks.ebay.com/charity-auctions/charity/be-the-star-you-are-501-c-3/1504/?favorite=link

8. Designer Clothes to Buy or Sell: https://www.unionandfifth.com/charities/be-the-star-you-are-moraga-ca/shop

9. Buy “Read, Lead, Succeed” T-shirts and tanks $19.99 at StarStyle® Store: http://www.starstylestore.net/

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

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