Top 10 Reasons Why #GivingTuesday is Better Than Black Friday

Taking place after popular shopping days like Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday, #GivingTuesday kicks off the charitable season and encourages you to give.

Now that the holiday season is in full swing, here are the top 10 reasons why #GivingTuesday is better than Black Friday!
 
10. #GivingTuesday is much safer than Black Friday! You won't have to wait in long lines with freezing temperatures only to be trampled by your fellow shoppers looking for the best deal on a flat-screen TV!

9. You don’t have to wake up at the crack of dawn. You can donate at any point during the day, whenever is most convenient for you.

8. You can participate from the warmth and comfort of your home, so keep those PJs on!

7. You can eat ice cream and watch Netflix while donating. That's always a bonus.

6. You don’t have to break the bank to make a donation, even the smallest gift can have an amazing impact!

5. You can feel good about the money you gave, rather than regret the money you spent shopping.

4. Giving a gift on #GivingTuesday takes only a few seconds. You could spend hours standing in Black Friday lines!

3. Giving to charity gives you serious karma points.

2. Lower your tax bill with these charitable contributions!

1. Most importantly, your gift will make a difference in the lives of our region's homeless pets right now. What's even better ... if you donate $100 or more today, you'll receive a limited edition keepsake ornament to show your support of Animal Friends for years to come!

Head over to ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/GivingTuesday to join us and kick off the holiday season on a positive note. And remember, each and every dollar will help more animals in need!

Volunteer Spreads Cheer on the Chow Wagon

By Rachel Martone

Chow Wagon Volunteer Jim Stocker loads his van full of donated pet food to deliver to food pantries with the help of his dog, an Animal Friends alumni!

Since 2007, Animal Friends’ Chow Wagon program has delivered donated pet food to local food pantries. It started with just one pantry nine years ago. Since then, it has grown to serve 29 pantries and two Meals on Wheels programs! Each month, thousands of pounds of pet food are delivered to food pantries around the greater Pittsburgh area. This service is only possible with the help of a dedicated team of volunteers. Perhaps no volunteer better demonstrates this dedication than Jim Stocker.

Jim is from the South Hills and has been volunteering at Animal Friends for almost five years. As the Chow Wagon program expanded to serve more food pantries, he happily stepped in to lend a hand. Though he started out as substitute delivery driver, Jim has increased the number of locations to which he regularly delivers. Now he is able to deliver to not one, not two, but three food pantries!  

In addition to making regular deliveries, Jim also picks up Petco Foundation pet supply donations from multiple Petco stores. Whenever the donation bin at the store is full, Jim is there to deliver it to Animal Friends.

We at Animal Friends are grateful to all of our wonderful volunteers, like Jim, who are committed to improving the lives of all pets. If you’d like to help with our Chow Wagon program, contact Rachel at RMartone@ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org for more information.

November's Jewels Still Shine

One beautiful and very big leaf

balances in the opening on a bench

We say hello to each other!

The golden larch graces the limpid pale blue sky

and the greens take on a hint of yellow

Soft dappled skies and furry edged leaves make us think it's spring again

November's jewels still shine

and blue skies appear in-between the grey days.

Beech nuts are falling from the trees

I collect some to put into a glass bowl at home.

The map of life contained in a single leaf

A rustling can be heard as the leaves start to float to the ground

and rejoice us with their luminous quality and varied colours

as well as their amazing textures.

Spring slumbers

In each tightly furled bud, spring slumbers, even though the cold winds

of November blow and snowflakes hover way on high.

A lone leaf on the branch

will soon join its sisters on the soft earth.

I'm grateful for the four seasons 

which bring me joy at every step.

***

Soon, our activities will be often inside.

There's always plenty to do

books to read

crafts to enjoy

crochet to make

and mandalas to create.

Not forgetting photography!

Winter months are humming with creativity.

Do you find exciting and uplifting things to do in the winter months?

Cattle Egret

Cattle Egret Visits Fredericton Area

Cattle Egret

For the past week the Fredericton area has had another rare visitor, a Cattle Egret.  In the photo above it is perched on a fence with one leg and foot pulled up while preening itself.  The bird is an adult in non-breeding (basic) plumage.  In breeding plumage it would have orange plumes on its crown, neck, and lower back; a bicolored bill with red at the base and orange at the tip, and dark red legs.  Some of the photos of this bird show some orange on the head and on the tail.  

Cattle Egret

Cattle Egrets are the smallest of the heron family and are more terrestrial than the others (they prefer to feed on land).  They are named for their habit of following livestock in the fields, feeding on the insects and invertebrates the animals kick up with their feet.  They have adapted to modern times and can be seen following tractors as they work the fields.  

Cattle Egret

Cattle Egrets are normal to most of the United States, Mexico, Central America and the West Indies.  They are only partially migratory, retreating from the northerly parts of their range in winter.  They are also endemic to Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia.  

The Cattle Egret is well known for its amazing ability to expand its range.  It did not always live in North America.  It is thought the species originated in central Africa.  From there it expanded its range around the world.  It was not seen in North America until the 1930s (West Indies) and first in Florida in 1941.  From there it has expanded its range widely in the New World.  

Cattle Egrets are colonial nesters in trees with other herons and egrets.  They breed from the southern US and Gulf Coast southward.  Visits to our area are rare but almost always in the fall.  They will usually then hang around a farm or other large animal facility until cold temperatures drive them southward again.  

Let's celebrate this tough, adaptable species.  Watch for them around livestock in your area.

Revisiting Abstract Photography. Part Two

Light and shadows

A flash of blue

We know what we see

or think we do!

Polka dot shadows

Shafts of light

What can it be?

It doesn't matter at all

Just enjoy the sight!

Dancing light forms

move across my line of vision

creating happiness

and put a smile on my face!

However dark things seem

Look up!

There is always the light shining in the darkness.

A world of make believe

A bold statement

in these reflections

where patterns and colours and shapes

can make us hold our breath.

A beautiful connection

Throw away the labels and just enjoy

the shapes, the colours and the strength emanating from these wonders of  nature.

Beautiful harmonies sing to my heart

Shapes and colours

light and shade

Unexpected and fascinating

Nature teases our senses

Impressionist atmospheres

created with a dancing camera

The north wind doth blow..

and my camera sways to nature's beat

Sleek and streamlined

Aqua Melody

which sings in perfect harmony

Estuary

The flowing and harmonious lines lead me forward

to my destination

just as the river flows towards the sea.

These colours and movements resonate with me on an emotional level

creating a flowing inner energy.

The lines show me purpose of movement.

The message from this and other abstract captures,

reminds me that nothing ever stands still.

it is forever moving forward 

carrying me where I need to go.

Abstracts tell me stories

They take me places where I'd never dreamed I'd go

It's an awakening of all my senses

and I feel more vibrant and alive.

***

I've just been part of a wonderfully gifted and imaginative group

of other photographers interpreting abstracts.

This workshop was facilitated by the contemplative photographer

Kim Manley Ort.

Here is the link to her class:

Going Abstract

Pink-footed Goose

Rare Goose Visits Fredericton

Pink-footed Goose

Since November 3 there has been speculation that a Pink-footed Goose (Anser brachyrhynchus) has been in the Fredericton area.  Several of us have been searching for it and it was finally located on November 11 at Carmen Creek Golf Course.  We went immediately to see it after receiving the report.  There it was feeding with about 100 Canada Geese.  It has been staying with the geese in the Fredericton area ever since, sharing its time between the golf course, the agricultural station, and the river.  Many people have come to see this rare goose.

The Pink-footed Goose is a very rare goose in North America.  We have had one other confirmed report.  A single Pink-footed Goose was present in Cormierville, NB in 2010.  It stayed for a few days and some of us saw it there.  This is probably not the same bird.  

Pink-footed Goose

The Pink-footed Goose is a bit smaller than the Canada Goose.  It is a beautiful bird with a brown head, light gray back with nice white edges to the feathers, pink on its bill and bubble-gum-pink legs and feet.  It appeared very comfortable with the Canadas.  

Pink-footed Goose

The Pink-footed Goose is very rare here because it is a goose of the Old World.  It normally breeds in Greenland, Iceland, and Svalbard (north of Norway).  It winters in the British Isles and northern Europe.  It is pretty distinctive but could be confused with two similar species, juvenile White-fronted Goose and Bean Goose.  The Bean Goose is larger and has never been here.  The juvenile White-fronted Goose has a longer pink bill with a white base.  Its legs are orange.

Home to Home Adoption Program: Sushi and Pop Tart

Pop Tart and Sushi aren't related, but are just as close as a mother and daughter. Sushi took Pop Tart under her wing when she was just a kitten and the two have been together since. Because they are so close, they would love to find a loving new home together!



Pop Tart is a gorgeous tabby who is about 8 years old. She was adopted as a stray by Sushi and her family when she was just a kitten. She is a little shy but absolutely adores attention once she gets to know you. This kitty is a mile-a-minute and loves to chase anything, especially a laser pointer! Pop Tart has never been a big fan of dogs and would be happiest in a home where she won't have any canine brothers or sisters. This sweet girl isn't much of a lap cat, but every once in a while will jump up onto the lap of her favorite person ... those are the moments her family will treasure!



Sushi is about 10 years old and is a total sweetheart! She is as pleasant as any cat you'll meet and quickly becomes a curious and outgoing girl when meeting new people. While her friend Pop Tart prefers a dog-free home, Sushi doesn't mind canine companions. Sushi has a very nurturing, motherly personality and takes the lead when she and Pop Tart are together. This girl loves her cat nip and enjoys spending time as a lap cat – as long as it's on her terms!

If you can give these sweet girls a loving home, please contact Charles at 412.600.6603 or cschardong@verizon.net.

Revisiting Abstract Photography. Part One

Floating

The flowing shapes and restful colours are gentle on the mind

I feel as if I'm floating like a little white feather

which brings me into this abstract scene.

Glistening

When I see something which takes my breath away,

I know I want to capture it right away.

The precise focus of this image at close range makes it seem even more

abstract to me.

I'm attracted to the texture, to the curves and lines and to the glistening

shining areas.

Dreamy

Sometimes I think I can place or recognize something, 

yet seeing it in a totally different context takes away my certainties.

The light colour blue feels dreamy and the shapes of the white areas

definitely feel 'floaty'.

I feel astonishment, enthusiasm and joy.

I'm in a totally different world when I look at this image.

Am I moving?

Is it moving?

Where am I?

Essence

Conveying essence and emotion.

Water is the very source of life.

It could be called the essence of life.

Wherever there is water, there are emotions.

There are tears of joy and tears of many other emotions

like sadness and relief.

This watery jewel I captured above says it all for me.

It radiates from the centre outwards and it touches me deeply.

Removing Labels

allows me to concentrate on colour, texture and shapes

It allows me to go deeper.

I call this image: 'Essence of metal.'

I feel a dynamic energy.

The Essence of Wind

Since we cannot see the wind, but only know of its presence

by what we feel on our skin or what we see moving around us.

Intentional Camera Movement (ICM)

gives a whole new dynamics to the image

creating feelings of movement

which in this case, has created short bursts of energy, imitating the wind.

The colours blend together and the shapes evoke something special.

Minimalism

Eliminating all superfluous details to concentrate

on one particular element

which is the yellow pole and the green circle,

brings a sense of strength to the composition.

***

Abstract photography has taught me to capture the unexpected

and the details which are often overlooked.

The simplest of subjects in our everyday lives take on new meaning.

Recognizing abstracts has become an exciting new journey

which opens my horizons and takes me beyond my limits.

Suddenly, a whole new world opens up before me.

I shall continue to seek out abstracts because the whole experience

excites my senses and increases my creativity.

I become more daring by thinking outside the box.

I take a step out of my comfort zone 

and see things as I have never seen them before.

It's an exciting journey.

Pets for Vets Pittsburgh: Our First Match!

We are thrilled to share Don and Louie's story as the very first match through Animal Friends as the official Pittsburgh Chapter of Pets for Vets!

With an enormous smile on his face, Retired Army Sergeant Donald Borland greeted Louie, a 2-year-old Jack Russell Terrier for the first time. Louie returned the sentiment with a wag of his tail, not knowing how much this moment meant to Don.

It all started about 7 months before their match day. Don, a lifelong dog lover, was looking online at some of the adoptable dogs at various animal rescues and shelters in our region when he came across the Pets for Vets Pittsburgh Chapter at Animal Friends. He immediately picked up the phone and took the first steps that would help bring him and his new best friend together.

Pets for Vets is a national organization that supports veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injury by matching them with companion animals that have been carefully selected for them based on their lifestyle, personality and specific needs. While Don, a decorated combat veteran of Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom, would give Louie a loving home, Louie would give Don something just as important –the unconditional love and companionship only a pet can provide.

Louie is a sweet and outgoing little guy who loves just about everyone he meets. Don will tell you he’s quite the ladies’ man! These two became instant best friends after they met when it quickly became clear that Louie had found his family and Don had found the perfect sidekick.

The amazing bond that Don and Louie share is no coincidence. It isn’t the result of luck or chance either. It’s thanks to the skill, commitment and love of certified Pets for Vets trainer, Debi Meehan. Debi met Louie after he had been rescued from a high-kill shelter and placed into a foster home. After evaluating him, she knew that he would be a good match for the program and, more importantly for Don. Once Louie had been identified as a match for Don, he began a 6-week “boot camp” with Debi in her home where she taught him skills and behaviors personalized to Don’s needs.

After his match day, Don presented Debi with a Military Challenge Coin as a thank you. Don was given the coin by his General following Iraqi Freedom – he had been holding onto it to give it to someone who deserved it. Not only did Don find a new companion in Louie with the help of Pets for Vets and Animal Friends, he made what he calls a lifelong friend in Debi. When we asked Don about the program and what he’d want to tell other veterans about it, his words were short, sweet and to the point, “simply awesome.”

Don and Louie are the first of what are sure to be many successful matches made through the Pets for Vets Pittsburgh Chapter at Animal Friends, but to connect more vets with pets, we need trainers! If you’re interested in becoming a Pets for Vets trainer who can help us tell more Happy Tails like Don and Louie’s, contact Lauren Leffakis, Director of Placement Services at LLeffakis@ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org
or 412.847.7097. 

Dickcissel

Rare Fall Visitor (Spiza americana)

Dickcissel Adult Female [Carmella Melanson Photo]

The Dickcissel is a rare fall visitor to New Brunswick.  In ornithology parlance it is a 'vagrant' which means it has wandered beyond its normal range.  A few usually show up here in the fall as singles or sometimes in small groups.  It is very unusual for them to be here in spring or summer.  Right now there are at least two individuals in the Saint John area.  The photo above shows a female taken in Grand Manan.

The Dickcissel is a sparrow-like bird about the same size as a House Sparrow.  In fact, they often hang out with House or other sparrows.  They readily come to feeders in this area but on their normal range they are birds of fields and meadows where they feed on seeds, grasses, and insects.  In summer their normal range is the central US from eastern Montana and the Great Lakes region south to Texas and the Gulf coast.  They winter from southern Mexico into South America.  When preparing for migration they often gather in large flocks sometimes in the thousands.  On the wintering grounds their roosts can number into the millions of birds. 

Dickcissel Juveniles

The male Dickcissel in breeding plumage is very showy with a black bib, white chin, yellow eyebrow, and yellow breast (sorry, no photo).  His back is grayish brown and patterned.  His wings have a bright chestnut shoulder patch.  The female is more muted and lacks the black bib or she may have remnants of it.  The yellow eyebrow of the male is duller in the female and it is often a buffy colour behind the eye.  Juveniles are more like the female and have fine streaking on the breast and flanks.  They also do not have the chestnut shoulder patch.  

Dickcissel Juvenile

Dickcissel Female

Dickcissel Female

The Dickcissel in the two photos shown above is feeding in a coarsely-wired cage placed on the ground designed to allow small birds to enter so they can feed away from larger dominant birds like Starlings and Grackles.  It is a good device which makes it so all species can get to the food.  

The Dickcissel nests on or near the ground.  The nest is made of plant stems and grass and the 3 to 5 eggs are pale blue.  All the work related to nest-building, incubation and the rearing of young is done by the female only.  The unusual name of this species comes from its song which is lustily sung by the male from the top of a bush or post.  He says something similar to 'dick dick ciss ciss'.    

The first Dickcissel ever recorded in New Brunswick was in 1951 from Machias Seal Island.  We have had a lot of them since then.  Perhaps you will have one at your feeder this fall.  Keep a close eye on the ground under your feeders!

Pause, Focus and Connect

PAUSE

Noticing the shapes, colours, lines and textures around us.

Look at things from another point of view

How does that make us feel?

FOCUS

Observing things with an abstract vision

Finding the beauty in flowing forms

without labelling them.

CONNECT

in all simplicity

In photography, I have learned to slow down

and have thus created more space in my life.

I notice more, become one with what I see and feel

and experience so much more joy because of this.

Noticing the importance of light and how it can illuminate my subjects.

Looking closely with openness allows me to connect with all the details

in line, structure and subtlety in colour.

Marvelling at how extraordinary everything really is.

Taking the time to pause, focus and connect

has allowed me to see and experience everything in a whole new way.

Something which has been of great help to me in my quest

for a more contemplative life

was doing a workshop with Kim Manley Ort

called 

Adventures in Seeing.

Please check out the link to find out more.