Star Style Archives | VoiceAmerica Press Blog

Flames of Resilience

Posted by

Editor on October 27, 2017

Empowerment

Miracle Moment®

“We are made of star stuff.” Carl Sagan

A Message from Cynthia Brian

It has been another devastating month of disasters. The senseless shootings in Las Vegas and the current calamitous fires blazing in California are reason enough for everyone to mourn. We are all so saddened by these events that one friend of mine speculated that we will be suffering from post-traumatic stress. I agree.

Our volunteers were busy packing boxes for Operation Hurricane Harvey Disaster Relief, then, quickly added Hurricane Irma when that storm hit Florida, which then was multiplied to include Hurricane Maria. We changed the name to Operation Hurricanes Disaster Relief.

But on October 9^th, the catastrophe hit home with the California fires burning in our backyards, literally. The majority of my family and relatives were evacuated in Napa, Sonoma, and Solano counties along with over 100,000 residents. Ten thousand firefighters and first responders from all over the United States, Canada, and even Australia arrived to battle the blazes in our glorious wine country. As I write this, the torching is not yet contained and the death toll has risen to 40 with several hundred people unaccounted for. These wildfires are the deadliest in California history and have ravaged hundreds of thousands of acres destroying thousands of homes, businesses, and lives.

Yet, Californians are strong. Californians are brave. Californians are resilient.

It is challenging to watch an apocalypse occur without feeling hopeless and helpless. As my teen volunteers and I dropped off boxes of new books, games, and other resources to shelters in the Northern California region, we witnessed communities coming together with grace and gratitude despite losing so much. We were emotionally and spiritually helped by helping others. Read what teen volunteer Zahra Hasanaian had to say about her experience below.

Be the Star You Are!® will be participating in Operation Hurricane and Fire Disaster Relief for as long as is necessary to help those displaced. Our volunteers are personally delivering donations to Northern California shelters and we are shipping to the hurricane affected areas. If you want to donate to help in the relief efforts, your contribution is tax deductible and you will receive a receipt.

Checks can be sent to BTSYA, PO Box 376, Moraga, Ca. 94556 or on line through Paypal Giving Fund

https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/search-cause?charityId=1504&s=3

More information about BTSYA Operation Disaster Relief Program for fires and hurricanes:: http://www.bethestaryouare.org/copy-of-operation-hurricane-disaste

There are many organizations who will be assisting with the recovery. Whether you choose to donate to Be the Star You Are!® or to another source, know that you will feel good by doing what you can to aid those in need. Everyone wins with generosity,

To all those who have suffered, we send our love, our prayers, and our thoughts. Life is precious. We will rebuild. We will rise up. We are one.

We are made of star stuff.

Blessings to all,

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 376

Moraga, California 94556

www.BetheStarYouAre.org

www.BTSYA.org

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

Tune in to StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® radio for insights and conversations on positivity, healing, and rebuilding Wednesdays 4-5pm PT LIVE on the Voice America Network, the Empowerment Channel. Be encouraged and inspired. https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2206/be-the-star-you-are

Photos, descriptions, links and more at http://www.StarStyleRadio.com.

Express Yourself! Teens Aid Hurricane and Fire Displaced through Be the Star You Are!® Operation Disaster Relief

By Zahra Hasanian

When disaster strikes, it’s easy to send prayers, watch the news, or complain about how our world is becoming more and more dismal. It’s harder, but also much more rewarding, to send hope as well as concrete help.

This week, I drove to Napa and Solano counties with other Be the Star You Are volunteers and Voice America Radio personalities, Chelsea Pelchat and our Executive Director, Cynthia Brian, to deliver boxes of books to evacuation centers housing people who fled their homes after recent fires in Northern California. Those affected by the fire have been squatting in these centers for days without any source of entertainment. We figured that anyone, young or old, can always enjoy a good book.

Often, I think of myself as helpless against things as arbitrary and ruthless as natural disasters. But my attitude changed with every smile and thank you we received as we handed books to people in person. Sure, I had too much homework on Thursday night and too little time to do it. Yet, it’s important to realize that helping people who have lost everything is more important than a nightly assignment or any other daily task. We went to several different evacuation centers, and the kindness of the people at all the centers was astounding.

What I learned that day is that in the most dire of circumstances, our only source of hope is to help each other. Hope heals.

Zahra Hasanian is a teen volunteer with Be the Star You Are!r charity and a host/reporter on Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio broadcasting on the Voice America Kids Network Tuesdays at NOON PT. www.ExpressYourselfTeenRadio.com www.voiceamerica.com/show/2014/express-yourself

If you’d like to donate items through Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3 charity to help fire victims, please contact Operation Disaster Relief co-chairperson, Zahra Hasanain at (925) 899-4634. We need the following items: masks, diapers, feminine hygiene products, tissues, wipes, sanitizer, towels, books, art supplies, and journals. To make a financial donation, please visit http://www.BetheStarYouAre.org or send a check to PO Box 376, Moraga, California 94556.

Put Together an Emergency Supply Kit

Whether you are involved in an earthquake, tornado, hurricane, flood, fire, or other calamity it will behoove you to have an emergency supply kit in your vehicle and a larger one in your home. For your home, make sure you know where all of your important documents and other items are that you don’t want to lose. Sometimes, as was the case with these California fires, a matter of minutes was the difference between life and death. Make copies of your passport, driver’s license, credit cards, and have some small bills available. Know where your chargers are for phones, tablets, and computers. Back up your computers and keep files in the cloud or off site.

For your car, fill a backpack or small case with the following:

First Aid kit

Work gloves

Towelettes

Bottled water (1 gallon per person per day)

Blanket

Walking shoes

Peanut butter

Honey

Protein bars

Personal hygiene kit with toothbrush, soap, medications

Matches

Candle

Flashlight with extra batteries

Eating utensils

Breathing masks (Niosh-N95)

Clothing change

Read the newsletter: http://hosted.verticalresponse.com/672296/b72526875f/288055965/bbd34d3431/

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

Thanks for supporting Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3

Fall Forward with Be the Star You Are!®

Posted by

Editor on September 26, 2017

Empowerment

A Message from Founder, Cynthia Brian

“What good are the gifts we have

if we don’t share them?”

~From the film, The Answer Man

What a month of disasters it has been! From the amount of hurricanes, floods, fires, and earthquakes plaguing our globe, it seems that Mother Earth is angry. Our hearts go out to the people throughout the southern and eastern United States and the Caribbean who have suffered so greatly through multiple hurricanes and flooding; the people of Mexico who endured two major earthquakes within two weeks time, and the families throughout the West who have evacuated due to fires.

Be the Star You Are!® is committed to helping in disaster areas after the population have received medical attention, shelter, food, and clothing through our Operation Disaster Relief Program. We then ship books and other uplifting resources to organizations, libraries, schools, and shelters to offer hope, humor, and healing. If you know of organizations, libraries, schools, or shelters who could use our resources, please email me at Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org.

We hope you’ll want to donate to our Operation Disaster Relief. Make your tax deductible contribution through PAYPAL: https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/search-cause?charityId=1504&s=3

Checks can be mailed to Be the Star You Are!®, PO Box 376, Moraga, Ca. 94556.

On a happy note, the Pear and Wine Festival was a great success on Saturday, September 23^rd. Lots of free activities for kids.

Fall is here and so is the harvest. Read The Grape Escape @ https://www.lamorindaweekly.com/archive/issue1115/Digging-Deep-with-Cynthia-Brian-Lamorinda-winegrowers-join-a-long-distinguished-line-of-grape-cultivation.html

Be safe, be generous, and help those in need. Happy Autumn.

With gratitude,

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 422

Moraga, Ca. 94556

925-377-STAR

www.BetheStarYouAre.org

www.BTSYA.org

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

DONATE to OPERATION DISASTER RELIEF

Due to the multiple disasters, Be the Star You Are!® is collecting tax deductible donations to send books and empowerment resources to the displaced. Checks can be sent to BTSYA, PO Box 376, Moraga, Ca. 94556 or on line through Paypal Giving Fund

https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/search-cause?charityId=1504&s=3 .

Our teens are busy packing boxes of books and resources to send.

PLEASE HELP! THIS IS a DISASTER and PEOPLE NEED THE ASSISTANCE. OPERATION DISASTER RELIEF WILL BE ONGOING.

More information about BTSYA Operation Disaster Relief Program is found here: http://www.bethestaryouare.org/copy-of-operation-hurricane-disaste

Let’s heed the words of Margaret Mead in this time of trouble:

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has

Thank you for joining Be the Star You Are!® in our relief efforts. Everyone counts and being kind and generous is essential.

For more information visit http://www.BetheStarYouAre.org

Pear and Wine Festival

Our sincere thank you to our STAR SPONSORS:

Gold Star Sponsor: Michael Verbrugge Construction: www.mvcremodeling.com

Media Sponsor: The Lamorinda Weekly: www.lamorindaweekly.com

Silver Sponsor: MB Jesse Painting: www.mbjessee.com

The planning committee for our 20^th anniversary celebration will be meeting at our offices on Tuesday, September 5^th. If you’d like to help plan this exciting event, be in touch by email.

Our STAR Book Review Team has been on super drive these past few months reading and writing reviews to help learn about great books new and old. Check out www.BTSYA.org and click on Book Reviews for a plethora of ideas for fascinating reads for all ages.

College Is One Of The Biggest Transitions A Person Will Make

By Karen Kitchel

Graduating from high school often brings feelings of accomplishment and then excitement about the thought of moving on to college life. But graduates can become overly optimistic and confident in their ability to manage the many challenges they will encounter at college. This is sometimes referred to as the freshman myth. The freshman myth results in disenchantment when new college students’ academic, social, and personal expectations are not met after arriving at college. As a result, many students will leave college within their first year.

The freshman myth can be devastating to students if not addressed early on. According to a U.S. Census and American College Testing Program, of an estimated 18 million students enrolled in college, nearly 34% dropped out in the first year because they were overly confident, under-prepared and lacked realistic expectations about college. The majority of the students that leave the first year do so during the first six weeks of the fall term because they have not been able to make a successful transition. Many new college students have not dug deep enough to understand the realities of college life and how they will react to their new environment before arriving on campus.

A study reported in the Journal of American College Health reported a survey of 242 undergraduate freshmen at the beginning and end of their first year. The authors asked participants about their physical health, alcohol use and smoking habits, stress levels, perfectionism, self-esteem, coping tactics, optimism, extroversion, and psychological adaptation to college. Results revealed that negative coping tactics and perfectionism predicted poorer physical health and greater alcohol use at the end of the year; however, optimism and self-esteem predicted better physical and psychological outcomes. Data suggested that making compatible friends is essential to retention, and that students’ living arrangements are central to this process. Such friends provide direct emotional support, equivalent to family relationships, as well as buffering support in stressful situations.

To ease this major transition, it’s suggested that students ask themselves a few questions:

What are your goals both academically and personally when you get to college (it helps to be realistic here)?
2.   How do you think your relationships with your family will change (because you know they will)?
3.   Do you expect your college grades to be similar to those you got in high school? If so, how will you feel if that does not happen?
4.   Do you think you will need any outside help to do well in your courses? If not, why (most students do)? If yes, how will you find it?
5.   How will you discipline yourself to keep academic commitments, such as attending class and being prepared?
6. How will you deal with being stressed out at college (since it often comes with the territory)?

Someday you will tell future generations about your college days. Make the most of them, and don’t forget to enjoy the experience!

About the author:

Karen Kitchel is passionate about helping those in need. As President of the Cheerful Givers nonprofit organization, she helped to bring birthday gifts to more than one million less fortunate children. Prior to that, she helped create a corporate university at BI Worldwide. Currently she serves meals to the homeless, is a teacher, writer and mentor. She can be reached at karenkitchel@comcast.net.

Let Us Entertain You!

When you are looking for upbeat, positive, informative, and entertaining talk radio, tune in to StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® LIVE Wednesdays 4-5pm PT on the Voice America Network Empowerment Channel.

http://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2206/be-the-star-you-are

Also available in the archives and itunes anytime. Descriptions and photos at www.StarStyleRadio.com

Our teens interview authors, celebrities, and entrepreneurs NOON PT every Tuesday on Express Yourself! on Voice America Kids Network. https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2014/express-yourself Also available in the archives and itunes anytime. Descriptions and photos at www.ExpressYourselfTeenRadio.com

Shop, Give, and Get Connected

If you would like to make a direct donation to our giving fund, please visit our PayPal page!

https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/search-cause?charityId=1504&s=3

Ways to Help

AmazonSmile donates .5% of purchases http://smile.amazon.com/ch/94-3333882
Discounted books at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/shops/be_the_star_you_are_charity
Buy or Sell on EBAY:http://givingworks.ebay.com/charity-auctions/charity/be-the-star-you-are-501-c-3/1504/?favorite=link
Use GoodSearch to search the web & buy from your favorite stores,. Choose Be the Star You Are as your charity to support. You can log in with Facebook, too! http://www.goodsearch.com/goodto-go/be-the-star-you-are
Shop at over 1300 stores on IGIVE: http://www.iGive.com/BTSYA
BTSYA Logo Store: http://btsya.rylees.net
Giving Assistant: Shop. Earn. Give! Use Giving Assistant to earn cash back at 1800+ popular online stores, then donate a percentage to BTSYA: https://givingassistant.org/np#be-the-star-you-are-inc
Designer Clothes to Buy or Sell: https://www.unionandfifth.com/charities/be-the-star-you-are-moraga-ca/shop

If you would like to make a direct donation to our giving fund, please visit our Paypal page! https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/search-cause?charityId=1504&s=3

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

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

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

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

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

Blog:http://www.bethestaryouare.org/blog

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

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

Care to see what other people are saying about us? See our reviews at Great Non-Profits! GREAT NON PROFITS REVIEWS: http://greatnonprofits.org/reviews/be-the-star-you-are-inc/ 

Thanks for supporting Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3

PO Box 376

Moraga, Ca. 94556

www.BTSYA.org

Be the Star You Are!® Helps with Operation Hurricane Harvey Disaster Relief

Posted by

Editor on August 31, 2017

Empowerment

Be the Star You Are!® Helps with Operation Hurricane Harvey Disaster Relief

Hurricane Harvey is the first hurricane to hit United States land since 2004 and the destruction and devastation to Texas is monumental. The National Weather Service highlighted that “catastrophic and life-threatening flooding” remained a threat to southeastern Texas and portions of southwestern Louisiana with over 50 inches of rain expected. First responders and medical teams are on the scene as people are evacuated and rescued from the flooding.

The people of Texas, particularly Houston, and New Orleans are currently experiencing record floodwaters which have taken lives and continue to cause unprecedented damage in the region. The Federal Emergency Management Agency estimates that, in Houston alone, more than 30,000 people have sought emergency shelter. Harvey, downgraded to a tropical storm, is presently lingering along the southeast coast of the Gulf of Mexico, bringing heavy rains and storms to Louisiana as well.

Families are huddling in shelters.

The radio reporters and hosts of StarStyle® Be the Star You Are!® and Express Yourself! Teen radio as well as other volunteers of Be the Star You Are!® are collecting tax deductible financial donations to send books and empowerment resources to the displaced. Checks can be sent to BTSYA, PO Box 376, Moraga, Ca. 94556 or on line through Paypal Giving Fund

https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/search-cause?charityId=1504&s=3 .

PLEASE HELP! THIS IS a DISASTER and PEOPLE NEED THE ASSISTANCE. OPERATION HURRICANE HARVEY DISASTER RELIEF WILL BE ONGOING.

More information about BTSYA Operation Disaster Relief Program is found here: http://www.bethestaryouare.org/copy-of-operation-hurricane-disaste

Let’s heed the words of Margaret Mead in this time of trouble:

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has

Thank you for joining Be the Star You Are!® in our relief efforts. Everyone counts and being kind and generous is essential.

For more information visit www.BetheStarYouAre.org

Donations: https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/search-cause?charityId=1504&s=3

Scattering Kindness

Posted by

Editor on August 24, 2017

Empowerment

Miracle Moment®

“Our prime purpose in this life is to help others. And if you can’t help them, at least don’t hurt them.” Dalai Lama XIV

A Message From Our Founder, Cynthia Brian

Whenever we felt angry with someone when we were children, my Mother would advise, “You’ll catch more bees with honey than vinegar. Be kind.” Although I wasn’t sure why she wanted us to catch bees, as we matured those words became the foundation of our characters. Kindness begets kindness.

The BTSYA Pop- Up Concert at Aegis Living spread the love among seniors and a pooch. Thanks to Chelsea Pelchat and Brigitte Jia for organizing such a kind event.

Jelina Liu has signed on to be the official videographer for upcoming SHINE webisodes. If you want to contribute to the scripts that focus on being the star you are, shoot me an email.

The Pear and Wine Festival will be held on Saturday, September 23 and we are thrilled that three of last year’s sponsors have once again stepped up to support Be the Star You Are!®. If you are interested in joining our STAR sponsors, email Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org. More information at www.BetheStarYouAre.org/events .

Our sincere thank you to our STARS:

Gold Star Sponsor: Michael Verbrugge Construction: www.mvcremodeling.com

Media Sponsor: The Lamorinda Weekly: www.lamorindaweekly.com

Silver Sponsor: MB Jesse Painting: www.mbjessee.com

The planning committee for our 20^th anniversary celebration will be meeting at our offices on Tuesday, September 5^th. If you’d like to help plan this exciting event, be in touch by email.

As you prepare for the upcoming school season, take time to savor the sunshine while you enjoy the juicy fruits of summer. Give thanks for the farmers of our world who work to feed us all. You’ll want to read my article In Praise of Farmers. https://www.lamorindaweekly.com/archive/issue1112/Digging-Deep-Gardening-with-Cynthia-Brian-In-Praise-of-Farmers.html

Be kind to one another. Happy days! We’ll chat in September!

With gratitude and joy for your support. Remember that my virtual door is always open!

Cynthia Brian

Founder/Executive Director

Be the Star You Are!®

PO Box 422

Moraga, Ca. 94556

925-377-STAR

www.BetheStarYouAre.org

www.BTSYA.org

Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

SCATTERING KINDNESS

By Karen Kitchel

If you asked most people if they want to scatter kindness, I believe you would hear a resounding “yes!” If you need some ideas on how to begin, here are a few simple ways to start scattering kindness.

Interrupt the ordinary
Think about the people who help you get life done (mail delivery person, garbage collector, etc.) Interrupt them on an ordinary day with a cold bottle of water or candy bar and a “thanks for what you do.”

Love from afar
Send a little treat or trinket with the name of your state to a faraway friend or distant relative with a post-it note that says you were just thinking about them.

Popsicle scattering

While at the grocery store, pick up a box or two of popsicles and drop them off at a local shelter. All you have to say is “enjoy!”

Pennies for wishes

Save up your pennies and spread them out near a fountain where kids will find them, and they can make wishes.

Take the sting out of sorrow
Add to your calendar the birthday and anniversary dates of friends who have recently passed away. Then do something to remember the loved ones left behind on these difficult yet special days.

A line to say to make someone’s day

“That color sure looks good on you!”

Magazines for the homeless

If you enjoy reading, gather your used magazines or ask your doctor or dentist’s office to save some for you, and take them to a homeless shelter.

Kindness cards

Make up a few note cards to keep in your purse or car. Randomly drop them on an empty park bench, a counter or windshield. They can say things like: “You are appreciated” – “Always remember how special you are” – “There is not another person in this universe just like you” – “You are better than butter!”

About the author:

Karen Kitchel is passionate about scattering kindness. As President of the Cheerful Givers nonprofit organization, she helped to bring birthday gifts to more than one million less fortunate children. Prior to that, she helped create a corporate university at BI Worldwide. Currently she serves meals to the homeless, is a job coach, teacher, writer and mentor. She can be reached at karenkitchel@comcast.net.

Let Us Entertain You!

http://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2206/be-the-star-you-are

Also available in the archives and itunes anytime. Descriptions and photos at www.StarStyleRadio.com

Our teens interview authors, celebrities, and entrepreneurs NOON PT every Tuesday on Express Yourself! on Voice America Kids Network. https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2014/express-yourself

Also available in the archives and itunes anytime. Descriptions and photos at www.ExpressYourselfTeenRadio.com

Shop, Give, and Get Connected

If you would like to make a direct donation to our giving fund, please visit our PayPal page!

https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/search-cause?charityId=1504&s=3

Ways to Help

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

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

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

4. Use GoodSearch to search the web & buy from your favorite stores,. Choose Be the Star You Are as your charity to support. You can log in with Facebook, too! http://www.goodsearch.com/goodto-go/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. Giving Assistant: Shop. Earn. Give! Use Giving Assistant to earn cash back at 1800+ popular online stores, then donate a percentage to BTSYA: https://givingassistant.org/np#be-the-star-you-are-inc

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

If you would like to make a direct donation to our giving fund, please visit our Paypal page! https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/search-cause?charityId=1504&s=3

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

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

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

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

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

Blog:http://www.bethestaryouare.org/blog

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

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

Care to see what other people are saying about us? See our reviews at Great Non-Profits! GREAT NON PROFITS REVIEWS: http://greatnonprofits.org/reviews/be-the-star-you-are-inc/

Thanks for supporting Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3

Sparkle at Sunset!

A Be the Star You Are! Summer By Cynthia Brian

Posted by

Editor on July 21, 2017

Empowerment

A Be the Star You Are! Summer By Cynthia Brian

July 2017 Newsletter for BTSYA

Miracle Moment®
In less time than it takes to tell what a tough day you’ve had, you could be relaxing already.
~Source unknown

A Message From Our Founder, Cynthia Brian

Summertime and the living is easy or perhaps easier, at least that’s what the songs tell us. Kids are out of school, families enjoy vacations, barbecues, concerts, and cookouts. Interestingly for many of the volunteers of Be the Star You Are!®, we are busier than usual reading books, writing reviews, planning radio broadcasts, and working on new book projects. Since spring, eleven new teen book reviewers have joined our STAR Book Review Team and our Book Review Coordinator, Maria Wong is posting new reviews daily. Read reviews at http://www.btsya.com/book_reviews.html.

Chelsea Pelchat, our Teen Event Coordinator has planned a pop-up orchestra recital for Saturday, July 15th at 2:30pm at Aegis Living in Moraga, California with our musician volunteers. More info at http://www.bethestaryouare.org/events .Elizabeth Aquilar, our Newsletter Director, continues to assemble this monthly circular in between her exciting travels. Read about her latest adventure here.
I am busy proofing the final publishers copy of my new book, Growing with the Goddess Gardener, with pre-orders available now at http://www.cynthiabrian.com/books. 25% of the proceeds from the book will benefit BTSYA. Our most exciting news is our work on the third book in the Be the Star You Are!® series, Be the Star You Are!® for Millennials, with extraordinarily poignant chapters from 30+ BTSYA volunteers, supporters, and radio personalities. 100% of all proceeds will be directly donated to BTSYA to continue our uplifting, life-enhancing literacy and positive media message programs. This is a gift of love is keeping me very occupied with writing, editing, proofing, and communicating with our talented contributors. In 2018 we will base the themes of our weekly radio broadcasts on StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® and Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio to a specific chapter in the book, inviting authors and experts with complementary ideas. It is going to be a spectacular season and the book is going to be a fabulous read.

We will again have a booth at the Pear and Wine Festival in September and are seeking sponsors. Thinking ahead to our 20th anniversary in 2019, we are in search of a talented event coordinator to help us celebrate. If that person is you, please email me at Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org.
Enjoy summer. Stay cool! (And I have a few easy tips for you to do just that listed below!)Swim, play, spend time with family and friends, and take it a bit easier. You deserve a break and if you can’t have a week long holiday, try Karen Kitchel’s 6 Minute Vacation below.
Whatever you do, make time to make a difference in the life of someone else. Everyone counts.
With gratitude and joy for your support,
Cynthia Brian
Founder/Executive Director
Be the Star You Are!®
PO Box 422
Moraga, Ca. 94556
925-377-STAR
www.BetheStarYouAre.org
www.BTSYA.org
Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org

TIPS ON STAYING COOL THIS SUMMER
1. Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water. Avoid alcohol and caffeine when it’s hot as they cause dehydration.
2. Use sunscreen every day and reapply as directed.
3. Wear a hat and cotton clothing.
4. Avoid sports and high-energy activities when it’s really hot, especially mid day.
5. Take a dip in the pool, wade in a river, swim in a lake, play in the sea, or just take a cool shower.
6. Relax in the shade. A cold cloth around your neck helps.
7. Keep ceiling fans on, close draperies and window treatments during the heat of the day. Open windows for cross ventilation when the temperatures are lower at night.
8. Make sure your pets have plenty of water.
Enjoy this wonderful season of the year when you can be outside in nature.

6 MINUTE VACATIONS
By Karen Kitchel
Summer disappears so quickly that we all need to pack in as much vacation time as possible. While trips to faraway places are nice, our bodies and souls can use fun breaks far more often than we can pack a suitcase.
Consider taking a six-minute vacation every day this summer. Begin by making a list of the little things you enjoy doing like eating an ice cream cone, picking some wildflowers, listening to your two favorite songs, looking at vacation photos from years ago, or closing your eyes and imagining you are in Bora Bora enchanted by the turquoise water. Then take that list and schedule six minute vacations on your calendar for every day that’s left of summer.
You just might find these six minutes every day are your favorite part of summer.
Karen Kitchel is passionate about helping those in need. As President of the Cheerful Givers nonprofit organization, she helped to bring birthday gifts to more than one million less fortunate children. Prior to that, she created a corporate university at BI Worldwide. Currently she serves meals to the homeless, is a job coach, teacher, writer and mentor. She can be reached at karenkitchel@comcast.net.

Somewhat Sleepless in Seattle
An Update from Liz Aguilar

Leaving home again to start up research wasn’t easy after having a month of vacation at home. While I loved the idea of traveling again, I had gotten quite comfortable enjoying home, family, and friends. But the longer I explore Seattle, the more I love it more each day. I’m extremely grateful and lucky to have already made wonderful friends and to have supportive mentors working with me in lab on my research. For those of you who may not know me as well, I’m majoring in biochemistry and minoring in computer science with the hopes of someday pursuing graduate school to study computational biology. With my work, I’d love to be able to help make advances in medicine by understanding the underlying cause of genetic diseases. The University of Washington in Seattle has so far provided me with a wonderful environment to personally grow and learn from other peers who are also motivated to make a difference through their work.

While research has been enjoyable, exploring the city has given me a greater appreciation for the culture and the beautiful pacific northwest. Last weekend, I went on a seven mile hike with several friends in the Bandera Mountains, which are just an hour away from the city. While the hike was long and challenging, the gorgeous views and sights were absolutely stunning. It truly reminded me of when I was back in Switzerland!

I hope to continue making these memorable experiences and I hope to also share them with you. I hope you are all doing well and that you also manage to take time for yourself to enjoy this wonderful summer!

p.s – Seattle hasn’t had a drop of rain since late May!

Shop, Give, and Get Connected
If you would like to make a direct donation to our giving fund, please visit our PayPal page!
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1. AmazonSmile donates .5% of purchases http://smile.amazon.com/ch/94-3333882
2. Discounted books at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/shops/be_the_star_you_are_charity
3. Buy or Sell on EBAY:http://givingworks.ebay.com/charity-auctions/charity/be-the-star-you-are-501-c-3/1504/?favorite=link
4. Use GoodSearch to search the web & buy from your favorite stores,. Choose Be the Star You Are as your charity to support. You can log in with Facebook, too! http://www.goodsearch.com/goodto-go/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. Giving Assistant: Shop. Earn. Give! Use Giving Assistant to earn cash back at 1800+ popular online stores, then donate a percentage to BTSYA: https://givingassistant.org/np#be-the-star-you-are-inc
8. Designer Clothes to Buy or Sell: https://www.unionandfifth.com/charities/be-the-star-you-are-moraga-ca/shop

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Please join us on Star-Style Radio and Express Yourself! Teen Radio. Please also visit our calendar to find local events. http://www.BetheStarYouAreRadio.com
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Summer Love! By Cynthia Brian

Posted by

Editor on June 14, 2017

Empowerment

“The Summer Of Love was something special, We were so young and so free” Jefferson Airplane

A Message from Founder and Executive Director, Cynthia Brian Fifty years ago was the famous or perhaps infamous “Summer of Love” in San Francisco where over 100,000 young people migrated from around the world essentially launching the global hippie explosion of a counterculture revolution.. Maybe you were there or maybe you are the child of a flower child and completely exhausted from hearing about the good ‘ole days of sex, drugs, and rock ‘n roll. The nostalgia surrounding that complex time period is being showcased in multiple museums and exhibits around the San Francisco Bay Area. If you want to take a stroll down memory lane for a flashback of the 60’s, make sure to check out the various events. School is out, Father’s Day is here, graduations, birthdays, weddings, camping trips, water sports, barbeques, and multiple outdoor activities highlight the summer season. Whatever you do, be safe, smart, and enjoy your family and friends as they are precious.

The Moraga Faire booth was a huge success. Again, our gratitude to sponsors Michael VerBrugge Construction (http://www.mvcremodeling.com) and Realtor Elena Hood (http://www.Orinda.com) as well as authors Brooks Olbrys(http://www.blueoceanbob.com) and Diana Zimmerman (http://www.kandide.com) Teen event coordinator, Chelsea Pelchat, did a fantastic job of organizing the day and the BTSYA volunteers were stupendous. Thank you all. Be on the lookout for a summer event to be announced. Speaking of events, the 20th anniversary of Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3 will be September 9, 2019.

We want to celebrate in style and are searching for a dedicated and experienced volunteer who wants to chair and coordinate a 20th anniversary party. If that is YOU, shoot me an email, Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org and let’s talk. If you’d like to be on a committee, email me as well. Make sure to check out our new creative community at http://www.BTSYA.com. Web volunteer, Tim Barger, who helped design our website is available for hire at http://www.Timbarger.com. Since online shopping has become the norm for so many people, please scroll to the end of this newsletter to make your purchases through one of our partners who will donate a percentage of your total to Be the Star You Are!® All of your favorite stores and brands are represented so that you can buy what you wish while increasing literacy and positive media. During the summer, make sure to read books and read to your children.

“To be a leader, you must be a reader. Read, lead, succeed.” Check out this great article in the NY Times on how to raise a reader: https://www.nytimes.com/guides/books/importance-of-reading?utm_source=sharetools&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=website

Happy June, Happy End-of School, Happy Father’s Day, Happy Vacation. Make this YOUR summer of love. My virtual door is always open. Sending summer love, Cynthia Brian Founder/Executive Director Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3 http://www.BetheStarYouAre.org http://www.BTSYA.org Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org PO Box 376 Moraga, California 94556 925-377-STAR NEW DESIGNER PARTNER-Union and Fifth Union and Fifth is the newest BTSYA partner who raise money for charity by selling donated and pre-owned designer clothes, shoes and handbags.

To Donate Clothes: Sign up to donate your clothes via Be the Star You Are!® as your chosen charity. Download a free shipping label. They authenticate, photograph, list, and sell your items. Be the Star You Are!® will receive 75% of the sale. You receive 100% tax deduction. SHOP top brands like Chanel, Louboutin, and more up to 90% off retail.https://www.unionandfifth.com/charities/be-the-star-you-are-moraga-ca/shop Cowboy Nonie’s Online Boutique Two sisters, Amber and Lacy, have launched a new on-line boutique specializing in country chic clothing for women and children. Named as a tribute in memory of their country girl mother who died in May, 2016, Cowboy Nonie’s Boutique boasts beautiful items in sizes 0-3XL because the sisters want ladies to feel confident and sexy no matter what size they wear. Amber and Lady design many of the shirts, hats, dresses, and onesies. They proudly have the majority of their merchandize manufactured right here in the USA! Their husbands built them a mobile fashion trailer complete with a fitting room to resemble a small store front making it possible for Cowboy Nonie’s Boutique to travel for home parties, events, festivals, and more. When you want to feel a little bit country and a little bit rock ‘n roll, visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/cowboynonies/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel And soon their web site will be launched at www.cowboynonies.com. WANT TO WRITE A CHAPTER IN OUR NEW BOOK? Volunteers, radio reporters, supporters, and beneficiaries are invited to submit a short chapter for our third book in the Be the Star You Are!® series. Titled, Be the Star You Are!® for Millennials-Celebrating Gifts of Positive Voices in a Changing Digital World, this book is bound for greatness. If you love to write and want to participate, please email Cynthia@BetheStarYouAre.org for guidelines. Deadlines are fast approaching.

A Father’s Day History by Karen Kitchel Sonora Louise Smart Dodd first brought up the idea of a Father’s day in 1909. She wanted a special day to honor her father, William Smart. When Sonora’s mother died in childbirth with her sixth child, William, who was a veteran of the Civil War, was left to raise the newborn and five other children by himself on a small farm in Washington. Sonora realized how strong and unselfish her dad had been raising his kids as a single parent and she thought there should be a day to pay homage to him and other Dads like him. Sonora wanted Father’s Day to be celebrated on the first Sunday in June because it was close to her Dad’s birthday. Instead the first Father’s Day celebration took place on June 19, 1910 in Spokane, Washington. In 1966, President Lyndon Johnson made the third Sunday of June Father’s Day, but it wasn’t until 1972 that President Richard Nixon made Father’s Day a national holiday — about 60 years after Mother’s Day had been made a national holiday. Other countries also picked up on the idea of Father’s Day. While many followed suit by celebrating it on the third Sunday in June, some decided to honor Dad on different dates. And what’s the best gift you can give if you’re lucky enough to have a Dad? Write him a note and just tell him that you’re glad to be his child. Happy Father’s Day to all who hold this very special title! Some heroes don’t’ have capes. They are called DAD!  Karen Kitchel is a Community Volunteer who is passionate about helping those who are homeless or disadvantaged. She previously served as President of Cheerful Givers, a nonprofit organization, and Director of BI University at BI Worldwide. She can be reached at karenkitchel@comcast.net Shop, Give, and Get Connected

If you would like to make a direct donation to our giving fund, please visit our Paypal page!https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/search-cause?charityId=1504&s=3

Ways to Help 1. AmazonSmile donates .5% of purchases http://smile.amazon.com/ch/94-3333882

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

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

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

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

7. Giving Assistant: Shop. Earn. Give! Use Giving Assistant to earn cash back at 1800+ popular online stores, then donate a percentage to BTSYA: https://givingassistant.org/np#be-the-star-you-are-inc

8. Designer Clothes to Buy or Sell: https://www.unionandfifth.com/charities/be-the-star-you-are-moraga-ca/shop If you would like to make a direct donation to our giving fund, please visit our Paypal page! https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/search-cause?charityId=1504&s=3

Be the Star You Are!Â® charity. Every Season is for Giving Make a donation today.

Links you can use for Be the Star You Are!Â®
Positive Results
About Us
Programs
How to Help
Blog
Events
Contact us

GREAT NON PROFITS REVIEWS: http://greatnonprofits.org/reviews/be-the-star-you-are-inc/ Please join us on Star-Style Radio and Express Yourself! Teen Radio. Please also visit our calendar to find local events. http://www.BetheStarYouAreRadio.com Care to see what other people are saying about us? See our reviews at Great Non-Profits! GREAT NON PROFITS REVIEWS: http://greatnonprofits.org/reviews/be-the-star-you-are-inc/  Thanks for supporting Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3 HAPPY FATHER’S DAY TO ALL OUR DADDY HEROES! Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3 PO Box 376 Moraga, California 94556 www.BetheStarYouAre.org www.BTSYA.org 925-377-STAR info@BetheStarYouAre.org Read more at http://hosted.verticalresponse.com/672296/3d8fdc4852/288055965/ac7221bc2f/

Smile Secrets, Giving Thanks, Tragedy Talks for Kids By Cynthia Brian

Posted by

Editor on April 28, 2017

Empowerment

Smile Secrets, Giving Thanks, Tragedy Talks for Kids By Cynthia Brian

If you are looking for upbeat, life-changing, and mind stretching information, you’ve come to the right place. Host Cynthia Brian takes you on a journey of exploration that will encourage, inspire, and motivate you to make positive changes that offer life enhancing results. It’s party time on StarStyleÂ®-Be the Star You Are!Â®. And YOU are invited! Join us LIVE 4-5pm Pt on Wednesdays or tune in to the archives at your leisure. Come play in StarStyle Country.

Want to look great, feel awesome, and be more attractive? Want to brighten the day of strangers, help people feel better, and be happier yourself? Trying smiling more. Find the power that smiling offers and show your pearly whites!

When you affirm that the world is good and you recognize the sources of goodness are outside yourself, you’ll feel happier, healthier, and grateful. Set your intention to give thanks for everything you are and have. Cynthia Brian will help you appreciate the little things that matter.

When tragedies happen in the world or closer to home with family or friends, how do you explain the circumstances to your children? How many details are healthy to share and what needs to be left unsaid? We’ll explore this difficult topic while being an empathetic parent.

Listen at Voice America Network

#StartWithaSmile at smile.amazon.com/ch/94-3333882 . Amazon donates to Be The Star You Are, Inc..

Read our BTSYA April Newsletter

What’s happening? Want to party? Visit our Event page

Make a DONATION through PAYPAL GIVING FUND

Catch up with all broadcasts on ITunes

Buy books by Cynthia Brian at http://starstyleradio.net/Store.html

For photos, descriptions, links, archives, and more, visit http://www.StarStyleRadio.com.
Get inspired, motivated, and informed with StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!®
Lend us Your Ears!!!

Make a donation today to Be the Star You Are!® charity http://www.bethestaryouare.org

Cynthia Brian talks about the empowering outreach programs offered by Be the Star You Are!® charity. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHglz05pBvI&feature=youtu.be

Embed StarStyle® Be the Star You Are!® Radio
If you are a fan of the authors, experts, celebrities, and guests that appear regularly on StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® radio, you can now be sure to never miss an episode. Embed this code into your WordPress site or any site and you’ll always have Cynthia Brian, Heather Brittany, and all of your favorite pioneers on the planet at your fingertips. Upbeat, positive, life-changing talk radio broadcasting live each week since 1998. Lend us Your Ears. We are Starstyle®-Be the Star You Are!®
http://www.voiceamerica.com/jwplayer/HostPlayer.html?showid=2206

Be the Star You Are!® charity. Every Season is for Giving Make a donation today

Links you can use for Be the Star You Are!Â®
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April Beauty By Cynthia Brian

Posted by

Editor on April 19, 2017

Dreamworking with Dr. Christopher Sowton, Living Longer Gratefully! By Cynthia Brian

Posted by

Editor on April 17, 2017

Empowerment

Dreamworking with Dr. Christopher Sowton, Living Longer Gratefully! By Cynthia Brian

Genetics account for only 25% of a person’s longevity. The rest is how you live your life. Learn tips from centenarians for a new model for aging.

Join Christopher Sowton as he shares five steps to receiving the inner guidance of our dreams: Catch, Clarify, Orient, Connect, Respond . With hands-on techniques, examples from the author’s psychotherapy practice, and guidance for working with fourteen common dream motifs, his book, Dreamworking–How to Listen to the Inner Guidance of Your Dreams, shows how to facilitate dreamwork for psychological and spiritual transformation.

When you affirm that the world is good and you recognize the sources of goodness are outside yourself, you’ll feel happier, healthier, and grateful. Set your intention to give thanks for everything you are and have. Cynthia Brian will help you appreciate the little things that matter.

Guest Bio: Dr. Christopher Sowton
Dr. Christopher Sowton ND RP is a naturopath and a psychotherapist. Based in Toronto, his practice focuses on dreamwork. Since 2003 Christopher has been training health care practitioners of all kinds to integrate dreamwork into their practices. He is a member of the IASD (International Association for the Study of Dreams) and has recently published a book—Dreamworking–How to Listen to the Inner Guidance of Your Dreams. http://www.christophersowton.com/

Listen at Voice America Network

Allergy Alert, Fast Fixes to Live Healthy, End of Life Decisions By Cynthia Brian

Posted by

Editor on April 8, 2017

Empowerment

Allergy Alert, Fast Fixes to Live Healthy, End of Life Decisions By Cynthia Brian

It’s spring and that means the beautiful flowers and blooming trees also bring pollen. Allergy sufferers react with headaches, sneezing, itchy, watery eyes and noses. There are a few solutions that will alleviate your symptoms.

Our lives are busier and busier but that doesn’t mean we can forgo our health for our hectic schedules. If you only have a few minutes, you’ll be surprised by how much you can achieve. Tune in to Health Matters for fast fixes.

It’s not easy to have an end of life conversation, but it’s important to make decisions before it’s too late. Cynthia Brian will discuss options for advance care planning with choices for medical directives.

Listen at Voice America, Empowerment Channel

#StartWithaSmile at smile.amazon.com/ch/94-3333882 . Amazon donates to Be The Star You Are, Inc..

Read our BTSYA March Newsletter

What’s happening? Want to party? Visit our Event page: http://www.bethestaryouare.org/#!events/kgh2e

Make a DONATION through PAYPAL GIVING FUND: https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/search-cause?charityId=1504&s=3

Catch up with all broadcasts on ITunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are!/id669630180?mt=2

Buy books by Cynthia Brian at http://starstyleradio.net/Store.html

For photos, descriptions, links, archives, and more, visit http://www.StarStyleRadio.com.
Get inspired, motivated, and informed with StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!®
Lend us Your Ears!!!

Make a donation today to Be the Star You Are!® charity http://www.bethestaryouare.org

Cynthia Brian talks about the empowering outreach programs offered by Be the Star You Are!® charity. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHglz05pBvI&feature=youtu.be

Be the Star You Are!® charity. Every Season is for Giving Make a donation today. http://www.bethestaryouare.org/donate.htm

Links you can use for Be the Star You Are!Â®
Positive Results
About Us
Programs
How to Help
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Contact us

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