Roberta M. Helming: UConn star makes poor choice by posing nude

Roberta M. Helming: UConn star makes poor choice by posing nude


By ROBERTA M. HELMING
For the Norwich Bulletin
Posted Oct 14, 2010 @ 11:12 PM
Imagine my shock when I saw Diana Taurasi posed nude on the front cover of ESPN The Magazine.
Yes, this month’s issue is the “Body Issue 2010,” the magazine’s second annual “exploration and celebration of the athletic form.” Isn’t that supposed to mean the celebration of toned, muscular athletic bodies — not nudity?
Granted, while I would say Taurasi’s picture is what I’d call tasteful nudity, it’s still inappropriate. It may be one’s prerogative to pose nude, but shouldn’t that prerogative be given up by a public figure with a large fan base of children?
With the Internet, it’s no longer about acquiring the magazine from the newsstand. All it takes is for a young girl, innocently looking to learn about her hero, to Google her name. Trust me, the magazine is there and on the front cover is Taurasi’s naked body for anyone — and everyone — to see.
Taurasi, a University of Connecticut star athlete from 2000 to 2004, was embraced by fans of all ages, as are all the UConn players we adopt as our own. She made us proud because of her innate talent and role model status.
When she was chosen by the Phoenix Mercury of the WNBA, we were saddened (hoping the Connecticut Sun would have drafted her), but proudly watched her blossom in her new life and stellar career. As her UConn family, we were proud of her accomplishments. Maybe not so much of this most recent accomplishment.
Better choices

Should we feel comfortable knowing that our children can innocently Google “Diana Taurasi” and see her either on kidzworld.com or on ESPN The Magazine posing nude? With her celebrity status among children, which she chose, I think she needs to select more appropriate forums in which to interact with them

Taurasi has a moral obligation to her fans and the parents of fans. Too many young girls, even young women, struggle with body-image issues.
When Taurasi is in uniform, playing basketball, her fans are watching her playing basketball and not thinking about her body. But posing nude, the nakedness takes away that innocence. Her young fans may wish for a body like hers, and some might unfortunately try to achieve that in unhealthy ways. It happens,
whether it be celebrity or schoolmates.

Why would Taurasi decide to pose nude? Did she consider it may well have tainted her position as a role model for young girls? Will these girls now think their nude picture belongs on Facebook? It’s plausible, but let’s hope not.
Roberta M. Helming is a freelance writer from Ledyard and regular contributor to the Norwich Bulletin. She can be reached at RMHelming@aol.com

Copyright 2010 Norwich Bulletin. Some rights reserved

One thing that needs attention is ENABLING AND ENCOURAGING WOMEN TO GET TO THE POLLS!

What we as individuals can do to help others get to the polls to vote

One thing that needs attention is ENABLING AND ENCOURAGING WOMEN TO GET TO THE POLLS!


All the educating in the world will come to NOTHING if mom has to pick up kids, get dinner, help with homework and baths, all before the polls close at eight. We need to offer rides, sell hot dogs and drinks for kids near polling stations, offer childcare, whatever it takes! Childcare centers should be encouraged to stay open past their usual closing times (and provide snacks) so moms (and/or dads) can get to the polls before they pick up their kids.

Roberta M. Helming: UConn star makes poor choice by posing nude

Roberta M. Helming: UConn star makes poor choice by posing nude


By ROBERTA M. HELMING

For the Norwich Bulletin
Posted Oct 14, 2010 @ 11:12 PM

Imagine my shock when I saw Diana Taurasi posed nude on the front cover of ESPN The Magazine.

Yes, this month’s issue is the “Body Issue 2010,” the magazine’s second annual “exploration and celebration of the athletic form.” Isn’t that supposed to mean the celebration of toned, muscular athletic bodies — not nudity?
Granted, while I would say Taurasi’s picture is what I’d call tasteful nudity, it’s still inappropriate. It may be one’s prerogative to pose nude, but shouldn’t that prerogative be given up by a public figure with a large fan base of children?
With the Internet, it’s no longer about acquiring the magazine from the newsstand. All it takes is for a young girl, innocently looking to learn about her hero, to Google her name. Trust me, the magazine is there and on the front cover is Taurasi’s naked body for anyone — and everyone — to see.
Taurasi, a University of Connecticut star athlete from 2000 to 2004, was embraced by fans of all ages, as are all the UConn players we adopt as our own. She made us proud because of her innate talent and role model status.

When she was chosen by the Phoenix Mercury of the WNBA, we were saddened (hoping the Connecticut Sun would have drafted her), but proudly watched her blossom in her new life and stellar career. As her UConn family, we were proud of her accomplishments. Maybe not so much of this most recent accomplishment.
Better choices

Should we feel comfortable knowing that our children can innocently Google “Diana Taurasi” and see her either on kidzworld.com or on ESPN The Magazine posing nude? With her celebrity status among children, which she chose, I think she needs to select more appropriate forums in which to interact with them

Taurasi has a moral obligation to her fans and the parents of fans. Too many young girls, even young women, struggle with body-image issues.
When Taurasi is in uniform, playing basketball, her fans are watching her playing basketball and not thinking about her body. But posing nude, the nakedness takes away that innocence. Her young fans may wish for a body like hers, and some might unfortunately try to achieve that in unhealthy ways. It happens, whether it be celebrity or schoolmates.
Why would Taurasi decide to pose nude? Did she consider it may well have tainted her position as a role model for young girls? Will these girls now think their nude picture belongs on Facebook? It’s plausible, but let’s hope not.
Roberta M. Helming is a freelance writer from Ledyard and regular contributor to the Norwich Bulletin. She can be reached at RMHelming@aol.com

In Memoriam - In Loving Memory of My Father

In Memoriam - In Loving Memory of My Father


Thank you for everything you did for me . . . for providing for all my needs and for giving me an example to follow, with regard to the importance of taking care of my responsibilites. Thank you for allowing me to realize a high work ethic by watching your example . . . you really did work hard to ensure that you were able to take care of your responsibilities and some responsiblities that weren't yours . . . such as me. Thank you for loving me regardless. I'll always be grateful for raising me as your own. I know you loved me and I wish I had had time to tell you I loved you and appreciated you for what you did for me. You live on through my life for I believe that you rose from the rubble . . . that's how I knew how to do it when I needed to rise from the rubble. I love you and remember you fondly. I miss you, as do the Connecticut small track auto racing facilities.

These words respresent the feelings of Roberta M. Helming
who proudly placed this "In Memoriam" online.

In Memoriam - In Loving Memory of My Father

In Memoriam - In Loving Memory of My Father

IN MEMORIAM

In Loving Memory of

My Father

George Everett Perkins Jr.

May 18, 1937 - May 1, 2002

Thank you for loving me,

raising me and providing

me with all of my needs and

for treating me as your own.

Love, Your daughter & son- in-law

Roberta M. and John C. Helming

These words respresent the feelings of Roberta M. Helming

who proudly placed this "In Memoriam" online.

Roberta M. Helming - Not the gender that makes the marriage

Roberta M. Helming - Not the gender that makes the marriage


Roberta M. Helming
Publication: The Day Newspaper

In the letter titled “Despite laws, marriage is for a man, woman,” published Nov. 30, the writers states that he believes “true marriage is, has been and always will be the union of one man and one woman.”

Well, I believe same-sex marriages are a part of what defines a true marriage as well. I believe homosexuals should marry and that they are not immoral, perverted people. I don't believe they are corrupting the fiber of America or our children. They merely want to live a life of acceptance, free of the judgment, harassment and misunderstanding they receive.

As a Christian, I believe God has created all of us, and that includes homosexuals who are born into this world as homosexuals. If I worship a God who turns His back on the people He created, then I've been misguided in the placement of my faith.

When God created Adam and Eve and they reproduced, what act had to happen in order for their offspring to be “fruitful and multiply?” Incest. If you want to talk about immorality, let's talk about this and its negative ramifications, and leave the homosexuals alone, free to live happy, fulfilling lives.

Copyright Roberta M. Helming and The Day. All Rights Reserved

ROBERTA M. HELMING: We must take responsibility for Obama’s promises

ROBERTA M. HELMING: We must take responsibility for Obama’s promises


By ROBERTA M. HELMING

For The Norwich Bulletin
Posted May 02, 2010 @ 11:29 PM

The 2008 presidential campaign will go down in history as one filled with extraordinary idealism and overly optimistic rhetoric.
President Barack Obama is a dynamic, eloquent speaker. Many believed in his “Dream” and “Yes, We Can” rhetoric. Obama wasn’t deceptive. He believed in his dream. He saw possibilities that would bring change to this country. So what went wrong?
Many were taken in by the over-idealistic nature of his dream campaign. Inside campaign headquarters, volunteers seemed to be puppets reciting the unrealistic dreams in the mantra given them. Not long after Obama’s inauguration, reality arrived. He hasn’t been able to fulfill many of the ideals implied by the vernacular of his campaign.
His strategies were full of ideologies capturing the attention of those desperately in need, and who embraced his convincing messages. In many ways, his campaign was too lofty and promised too much.
In fairness to the president, who among us cast a truly informed vote based on listening and not just hearing?
Many couldn’t foresee the reality that his grand ideas wouldn’t survive up against a polarized Congress. But truly, did anyone believe that Obama’s inauguration would end the gridlock that comes with working with Congress? Congress has railroaded Obama’s visions for this country. And for many, his dream has become a nightmare, and has led to skepticism among many voters. Many have turned their backs on the president in search of a new, but perhaps equally unattainable dream.
It’s time for Americans to accept some blame for being caught up in the “feel-good moment” of this campaign. Obama’s campaign spoke heavily to those desperate and couldn’t see that change would take time. People were looking for instant “feel-good” change that won’t occur. And shame on Obama for not stressing this sufficiently during his campaign, causing an aftershock for many.
A starting point
In the final analysis, Obama won’t realize all his dreams and promises, but we need to acknowledge that getting the ball rolling during his term(s) might be more realistic.
But this reality isn’t solely Obama’s problem. Learning from the past is the best way to avoid repeating mistakes. Voters should listen to what is really being said, not the feel-good stuff. Look for the hard reality hidden behind the rhetoric. It seems we chose a good president, but he faces difficult realities in working with Congress.
Changes might have to come from the choices that our “vote for change” brings in the upcoming elections.
But for now, we must help this country and this president by being proactive in politics. Write letters, make phone calls and be our “own leaders.” Let’s ask tough questions.
Change is realized one person at a time — over time. Become involved in a small way so those dreams and “Yes, We Can” ideals aren’t mere rhetoric, but reality.
Roberta M. Helming is a freelance writer from Ledyard and can be reached at RMHelming@aol.com

Copyright 2010 Norwich Bulletin. Some rights reserved

Roberta M. Helming: Definition of ‘inpatient’ defies common sense

Roberta M. Helming: Definition of ‘inpatient’ defies common sense


By ROBERTA M. HELMING

For the Norwich Bulletin

Posted Oct 04, 2010 @ 12:09 AM
Imagine an elderly parent, in the hospital for three days hooked up to a heart monitor with IVs, being denied Medicare coverage because the status was deemed not to be “inpatient” but “under observation.”
The Norwich Bulletin published a story Sept. 20 about such a case involving an elderly patient at The William W. Backus Hospital. His family claims they only learned at the time of his discharge about the “under observation” status and were subsequently presented with a nearly $10,000 bill for services not covered by Medicare.
At a minimum there’s a problem with not informing patients and caregivers up front of services to be rendered that are not covered by Medicare. A surprise $10,000 bill on the way out the door just doesn’t seem fair.
There’s been a lot of talk lately about health care reform. New rules are being implemented based on the new reform measures enacted this year. But we still seem to have some problems.
‘Technicalities’

What baffles me is this: For three days an 89-year-old individual slept in a hospital bed, in a hospital room, eating hospital food and hooked up to a heart monitor and IVs. How is that not considered an “inpatient” hospital stay?
Why are there such “technicalities” in our health care system? Hospitals are concerned about audits by Medicare that might reflect “too many patients” being admitted. But what constitutes “too many?” At what point is the care being administered considered? Let’s be real. Does anyone think that heart monitors plus IVs for three days isn’t inpatient care?
Really, who has this kind of equipment at home in a closet next to his vacuum cleaner for anyone to consider the possibility of “outpatient” treatment?
Are we heading down a path where quotas or lottery systems will be established to determine “inpatient” care versus “under observation” based on cost factors?
Apparently being admitted to a hospital, and having that “hospital stay” covered by Medicare isn’t a given anymore.

This clearly is a reminder for the elderly and their caregivers to ask questions about health care coverage of medical services early on. Of course if care is needed, it’s needed. But at least there won’t be that unexpected $10,000 surprise later.
Medicare costs are a major part of the federal deficit and must be constantly reviewed. But this kind of practice is simply wrong, and we need to speak up. Today it’s questionable inpatient coverage. Tomorrow, it could be doctor visits or medically necessary tests. Where does it stop?
Roberta M. Helming is a freelance writer from Ledyard and regular contributor to the Norwich Bulletin. She can be reached at RMHelming@aol.com.
Copyright 2010 Norwich Bulletin. Some rights reserved

Roberta M. Helming: Definition of ‘inpatient’ defies common sense

Roberta M. Helming: Definition of ‘inpatient’ defies common sense


By ROBERTA M. HELMING
For the Norwich Bulletin
Posted Oct 04, 2010 @ 12:09 AM
Imagine an elderly parent, in the hospital for three days hooked up to a heart monitor with IVs, being denied Medicare coverage because the status was deemed not to be “inpatient” but “under observation.”
The Norwich Bulletin published a story Sept. 20 about such a case involving an elderly patient at The William W. Backus Hospital. His family claims they only learned at the time of his discharge about the “under observation” status and were subsequently presented with a nearly $10,000 bill for services not covered by Medicare.
At a minimum there’s a problem with not informing patients and caregivers up front of services to be rendered that are not covered by Medicare. A surprise $10,000 bill on the way out the door just doesn’t seem fair.

There’s been a lot of talk lately about health care reform. New rules are being implemented based on the new reform measures enacted this year. But we still seem to have some problems.
‘Technicalities’

What baffles me is this: For three days an 89-year-old individual slept in a hospital bed, in a hospital room, eating hospital food and hooked up to a heart monitor and IVs. How is that not considered an “inpatient” hospital stay?

Why are there such “technicalities” in our health care system? Hospitals are concerned about audits by Medicare that might reflect “too many patients” being admitted. But what constitutes “too many?” At what point is the care being administered considered? Let’s be real. Does anyone think that heart monitors plus IVs for three days isn’t inpatient care?

Really, who has this kind of equipment at home in a closet next to his vacuum cleaner for anyone to consider the possibility of “outpatient” treatment?

Are we heading down a path where quotas or lottery systems will be established to determine “inpatient” care versus “under observation” based on cost factors?

Apparently being admitted to a hospital, and having that “hospital stay” covered by Medicare isn’t a given anymore.

This clearly is a reminder for the elderly and their caregivers to ask questions about health care coverage of medical services early on. Of course if care is needed, it’s needed. But at least there won’t be that unexpected $10,000 surprise later.

Medicare costs are a major part of the federal deficit and must be constantly reviewed. But this kind of practice is simply wrong, and we need to speak up. Today it’s questionable inpatient coverage. Tomorrow, it could be doctor visits or medically necessary tests. Where does it stop?

Roberta M. Helming is a freelance writer from Ledyard and regular contributor to the Norwich Bulletin. She can be reached at RMHelming@aol.com.

Copyright 2010 Norwich Bulletin. Some rights reserved

Helming Wedding Vow Renewal

Helming Wedding Vow Renewal


Publication: The Day

Published 08/30/2009 12:00 AMUpdated 08/31/2009 12:00 PM

Roberta M. and John C. Helming of Ledyard renewed their wedding vows on their 17th wedding anniversary on Friday, Aug. 21, 2009. The ceremony was held along the beautiful river walk in Providence, R.I. The ceremony which was officiated by LisaAnn Donegan, an interfaith minister from Massachusetts, was performed outdoors overlooking the river. The couple exchanged vows which they co-wrote with their minister.

After their beautiful ceremony, the couple went on a romantic gondola ride on the river. As they were on their gondola ride, a mandolin player performed music behind where they were seated, a true Venice experience.

The couple enjoyed a second honeymoon camping on Cape Cod, where they biked and did "Cape Cod" things.

This year was significant for Roberta and John to renew their vows as they were first married on a Friday. Also, in adding one and seven to equal eight, then turning the numeral eight on its side it approximates the infinity symbol and represents their forever commitment to each other. As precious as their initial wedding vows were, it was in their hearts to co-write their own vows, which spoke to who they are as a couple.

Written by Roberta M. Helming - Copyright 2009

Helming wedding vow renewal

Day Staff
Publication: The Day

Published 08/30/2009 12:00 AM

Updated 08/31/2009 12:00 PM


Roberta M. and John C. Helming of Ledyard renewed their wedding vows on their 17th wedding anniversary on Friday, Aug. 21, 2009. The ceremony was held along the beautiful river walk in Providence, R.I. The ceremony which was officiated by LisaAnn Donegan, an interfaith minister from Massachusetts, was performed outdoors overlooking the river. The couple exchanged vows which they co-wrote with their minister.
After their beautiful ceremony, the couple went on a romantic gondola ride on the river. As they were on their gondola ride, a mandolin player performed music behind where they were seated, a true Venice experience.
The couple enjoyed a second honeymoon camping on Cape Cod, where they biked and did "Cape Cod" things.
This year was significant for Roberta and John to renew their vows as they were first married on a Friday. Also, in adding one and seven to equal eight, then turning the numeral eight on its side it approximates the infinity symbol and represents their forever commitment to each other. As precious as their initial wedding vows were, it was in their hearts to co-write their own vows, which spoke to who they are as a couple.
Written by Roberta M. Helming, Copyright 2009 All Rights Reserved

Roberta M. Helming: Believe in yourself and your dreams

Believe in yourself and your dreams
Without dreams our quality of life isn't whole. Life is tough. Even the best lives. What inevitably keeps us making progress in life is believing in what might be possible.
While some of our dreams may not be within our reach realistically, we breathe a little easier because of our belief that with hard work, determination and dedication they might be. And they might. We don't know in life.
This isn't to imply that we should live in a dream world. We must be realistic and keep our feet firmly planted. But we still need to dream, to believe in that which we feel will bring our lives to a place that is almost surreal.
And while never giving up on those dreams and always in pursuit of them, our lives will take the most awesome turns and we will experience some incredible adventures. We will find ourselves in places we never imagined possible and we may realize that these experiences are more amazing than those dreams that started us on this path.
What is truly important in life is to not always harshly judge and blame ourselves, but rather believe in ourselves and our dreams.

Roberta M. Helming: World peace first begins in our heart

World peace first begins in our heart


Roberta M. Helming Ledyard

Publication: The Day

Published 03/20/2010 12:00 AM

Updated 03/19/2010 11:20 PM

While it's a lofty goal to want to bring peace to a large number of people all at one time, peace happens one person at a time in our own smaller worlds. We all need to live our daily lives, promoting peace in our own way.
As we focus on our busy lives, we need to remember that peace begins in our hearts and thoughts. Kindness is contagious and with our actions - wishing someone a good day - we have the power to spark other people's hearts and thoughts to perpetuate an act of kindness.
Don't stereotype, label or profile people based on country of origin, race, culture, religion, sexual orientation, language or accent. Respect people for who they are in their heart, mind and soul. Without this, peace isn't possible.
We all share commonalities. We cry, hurt, laugh, love our children. We may not have the same skin color, style of dress or language, but acceptance of differences in people will create strong bonds and promote peace, locally and, ultimately, the world over.
Copyright Roberta M. Helming

Roberta M. Helming: Understanding bad behavior a good start

Understanding bad behavior a good start


Roberta M. Helming Ledyard
Publication: The Day
Published 02/09/2010 12:00 AM

Updated 02/09/2010 05:29 AM

It is easy to label someone who has a substance-abuse problem. They're drunks, druggies, abusers and losers. Although substance abuse is unacceptable, it helps to understand this type of bad behavior.

To understand people who become addicted, it is key to understand deep emotional torment and pain. If one has ever experienced the death of a loved one, deep emotional pain is known. Time heals this emotional pain for emotionally healthy people.
However, those with emotional problems don't need extreme trauma to experience relentless emotional pain. These people's minds hurt constantly. And relief doesn't come often.
Developing compassion for those living with constant emotional pain should make it easier to understand - but not excuse - substance abuse. Is it even fathomable to imagine going nonstop, day after day, with emotional pain and not seeking relief?

This is not intended to excuse bad behavior and I have no formal education in psychology or psychiatric medicine. I just hope this promotes better understanding of emotional suffering.
I urge people dealing with substance abuse to consult a licensed physician, psychiatrist or psychologist. And please help those dealing with these issues to find help in the psychiatric world, regardless of its shortcomings.
Copyright Roberta M. Helming

Roberta M. Helming: Think about relaxation methods to ease pain

Roberta M. Helming: Think about relaxation methods to ease pain


Publication: The Day

Published 04/11/2010 12:00 AM

Updated 04/11/2010 05:30 AM

Suffering with relentless chronic pain is widespread. Emotional or physical chronic pain seems totally out of the sufferers' control. It isn't, and permitting it to "steal" a quality of life serves no purpose, causing unnecessary, intolerable pain. Lives are often filled with misery that never subsides.

This doesn't have to be, however. Relief of chronic pain may be realized through relaxation techniques.

It's key to recognize and accept chronic pain and know that a life of pain might be changed by the empowerment that results from pain management. Hence, knowledge through education helps sufferers realize a better life, free of pain.

Learning relaxation techniques of the mind can help lessen suffering and increase relief. Hence, there need not be suffering in silence because of chronic pain where the medical establishment is lacking. Relief through the mind may be realized by learning techniques to control pain through the mind. It's extremely empowering and may lead to tremendous relief and a higher quality of life.

A consultation with a physician regarding relaxation techniques of the mind to ease chronic pain is necessary.

Roberta M. Helming: Communication skills vital in life

Roberta M. Helming: Communication skills vital in life


Publication: The Day

Published 02/12/2009 12:00 AM

Updated 12/11/2009 01:06 PM

In November, I volunteered for Barack Obama's campaign in Laconia, N.H, a swing state. I had reservations about making politically based phone calls for Mr. Obama.

At the headquarters each morning I would be handed a script of what to say during my phone calls. I politely responded that I wouldn't engage in negative campaigning. I explained that as a team we wouldn't win over Republicans and undecided voters in a swing state by being negative about the other candidates.

I spoke with hundreds of undecided voters on the telephone about Barack Obama and, because of my approach, most were open to me because I wasn't trying to explain what was wrong with their candidates, but rather what was right about my candidate. I say this to help people understand that communication skills in life are of the utmost importance and how we say things directly effects the response we receive and the influence we have on others.
With regard to communicating more effectively, I recommend a book I read recently titled “Leadership and Self Deception: Getting Out of the Box.” It is by the Arbinger Institute and, as it did mine, it will truly change your life.

Roberta M. Helming: Putting parent in a care facility is not betrayal

Putting parent in a care facility is not betrayal
Roberta M. Helming
Publication: The Day
Published 04/29/2010 12:00 AM

Updated 04/29/2010 01:01 AM
For many, parents have taken care of us as children and have been there to lean on in adulthood, as nurturers. There comes a time, however, when the difficult decision of placing a parent in a long-term care facility must be made. It's not a betrayal or warehousing situation.

People may have cared for parents with love, creating a reversal of role as nurturer. Attempting to provide care for a parent at home causes fatigue, as it becomes a full-time job. Overall care becomes overwhelming and needs of the immediate family suffer.
Finding a suitable long-term care facility where much-needed, around-the-clock care is received can be effectively realized.

Regular visits from loved ones should be a part of a dignified plan of care. Some can't face seeing loved ones in such a facility and hence stay away. Don't. It's important to know that a parent is living a life of dignity by receiving proper care in a new home, where they are residents, not patients. There's no need to feel bad.

Remember, parents did difficult things in our best interests, and now may be the time to do the same for them, with love and compassion.

Roberta M. Helming: Frankly, some causes are difficult to support and we do have the power to make a difference!!!

Roberta M. Helming: Frankly, some causes are difficult to support


Publication: The Day

Published 01/08/2010 12:00 AM

Updated 01/08/2010 01:00 AM


I attempted to maintain an open mind over the holiday season when The Day featured people needing financial assistance from the public. Certainly, each person's story spoke to potential donors' hearts, based on their life experiences.

As a woman who never had children because my situation and financial circumstances were never right, the thought of donating to a single woman with five kids didn't speak to my heart. If the blurb said she needed donations because her financial situation had changed, I would have been more sympathetic. It did not. Therefore, while I sympathize with the children, I was unable to support their cause.

Let's be frank with regard to another cause that sought donations. One was for unexpected pregnancies among 16- and 17-year-olds. Either we need to call this a lack in basic sex education or these teens must not have known that when they had sex without using protection, nine months later a bundle of joy might arrive. And, if paternity is known, instead of seeking donations, go to court for child support.
An appropriate donation would have been to the gentleman who worked until his disability made it impossible. He needed donations until his disability money arrived.

Roberta M. Helming - When do we begin to the U.S.A. of China?

Roberta M. Helming - Recapturing U.S.A.
By ROBERTA M. HELMING
Publication: The Day
Published 01/24/2010 12:00 AM

Updated 01/24/2010 06:28 AM
The start of the new year is undeniably a time to reflect on the year and decade just past. We saw history made with President Obama's election. With his presidency has come challenging and difficult issues not only for the president, but for all Americans.
We are living in hard times with many negative, escalating issues, most of them a result of the economy. The hard times beg the questions, how much more unemployment, how many more foreclosures, how many more people will become homeless? This nation has become too dependent on China, borrowing trillions of dollars and buying too many Chinese products.
When do we cease being the U.S.A. and become the U.S. of China?
The future looks bleak. But we are all in this together. For Americans who believed the election of Barack Obama would result in change - don't give up the dream. While it is difficult to remain optimistic, believers must remember that change starts at home - one person at a time reaching out to another - not in Washington. It starts individually, and then collectively, working together to implement change. It's difficult, but feasible.
Pointing fingers doesn't help. The past is just that, the past. Instead, we should create new opportunities that lead to change so that our children and grandchildren realize the strong and great America we once knew.
As the year begins, we should all take steps towards bringing our soldiers home, resettling neighbors who have lost their homes, and feeding the needy and hungry.

By extending a helping hand to someone in need, whether we know them or just know that they are in need, we will do our part to bring the desired change.
But we should work as a team.
The goal - to keep America the strong, independent country it always has been and will continue to be.

Roberta M. Helming - Recapturing U.S.A.

Roberta M. Helming: Recapturing U.S.A.
By ROBERTA M. HELMING

Publication: The Day

Published 01/24/2010 12:00 AM
Updated 01/24/2010 06:28 AM

The start of the new year is undeniably a time to reflect on the year and decade just past. We saw history made with President Obama's election. With his presidency has come challenging and difficult issues not only for the president, but for all Americans.

We are living in hard times with many negative, escalating issues, most of them a result of the economy. The hard times beg the questions, how much more unemployment, how many more foreclosures, how many more people will become homeless? This nation has become too dependent on China, borrowing trillions of dollars and buying too many Chinese products.

When do we cease being the U.S.A. and become the U.S. of China?

The future looks bleak. But we are all in this together. For Americans who believed the election of Barack Obama would result in change - don't give up the dream. While it is difficult to remain optimistic, believers must remember that change starts at home - one person at a time reaching out to another - not in Washington. It starts individually, and then collectively, working together to implement change. It's difficult, but feasible.

Pointing fingers doesn't help. The past is just that, the past. Instead, we should create new opportunities that lead to change so that our children and grandchildren realize the strong and great America we once knew.

As the year begins, we should all take steps towards bringing our soldiers home, resettling neighbors who have lost their homes, and feeding the needy and hungry.

By extending a helping hand to someone in need, whether we know them or just know that they are in need, we will do our part to bring the desired change.

But we should work as a team.
The goal - to keep America the strong, independent country it always has been and will continue to be.