Tag Archives: kindness

Maria Shamkalian Imparts Lesson of Kindness to Combat Bullying

August 23, 2018 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

Bullying is a problem in schools nationwide, with 49% of children between grades 4 to 12 reporting being bullied by others at least once in the past month.

San Antonio, TX, August 23, 2018 — With a master’s degree in education, Maria Shamkalian knows that affecting change begins with early childhood education.

“If you teach young children important lessons about kindness and accepting others, they are equipped with these skills for the rest of their lives,” Shamkalian explains. “They are like sponges at this age and they can learn quickly about the beauty of diversity: to accept others and to accept themselves as they are.”

Teaching these values runs back generations in Maria’s family. In Russia, her grandmother worked with children with exceptionalities, who were often ostracized because of their differences. Shamkalian herself also experienced bullying when she moved to the United States.

“I had short curly hair and big glasses, I didn’t speak English, and I looked like a boy. These things made me stand out, and I was a victim of bullying because of it.”

Although Shamkalian went on to model and act, conforming to conventional beauty standards, she eventually realized that true beauty was not in changing herself but in being herself.

This is central to the message she imparts in her new book for children, “Sunny the Yellow Bunny”. The main character’s fur is different from all the other bunnies, but when Sunny asks his mom to dye his fur white, she refuses, teaching him to take pride in his differences.

“You don’t have to fit in by looking like everyone else,” adds the author. “You benefit the community because of your individuality. We are all pieces of the big, universal puzzle.”

Of the book, she adds, “I hope that my readers understand that we are all citizens of the world. We have different colors, cultures, and religions; there are so many ways in which we are different, but we all have dreams and hopes. We all want to be loved and have friends and a strong community. There is so much more that we have in common than what makes us different.”

Shamkalian plans to use her book as a tool to help make schools a kinder place, where children can be excited to learn from peers who are different from themselves.

Publisher Lisa M. Umina adds, “This is a beautiful book—from the illustrations to the powerful message for children, who will relate to Sunny and have fun learning about love, kindness, and acceptance: crucial values for us to instill in children today.”

For more information about Maria Shamkalian visit www.halopublishing.com. “Sunny the Yellow Bunny” is now available at Halo Publishing International, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Goodreads, and Books a Million in Hardcover for $20.95, in Paperback for $12.95, and as an e-Book for $6.99.

Press & Media Contact:
Lisa Michelle Umina, Publisher
Halo Publishing International, Inc
1100 NW Loop 410, Suite 700-176,
San Antonio, Texas 78213 – USA
+1 877-705-9647
contact@halopublishing.com

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“The Boy Who Couldn’t Be Seen” Provides Hope for Marginalized Children

January 22, 2018 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

Being a child no one wants is a horrible position for any youngest, especially the young boy in first time author, Michael Joffoy’s book “The Boy Who Couldn’t Be Seen.”

Denver, CO (USA), January 20, 2018 — Being a child no one wants is a horrible position for any youngest, especially the young boy in first time author, Michael Joffoy’s book “The Boy Who Couldn’t Be Seen.” Abandoned by his parents and mistreated by his relatives, the young boy of Joffoy’s book is lonely, angry and desperate for the family life he sees his friends living. As a result of his upbringing, he makes questionable life choices, suffering the consequences until, through the help of a church recovery program, God enters his life and brings him hope for a new tomorrow.

“This story is one that I lived,” admits author Michael Joffoy. “I wish I had spoken up and asked for help but I didn’t understand that there were people willing to offer hope to me and so I suffered alone, my only companion my cat Pepper who followed me everywhere.”

The story and illustrations depict a harsh reality for young Michael until he encounters members of a local church through a recovery program. Through their kindness and generosity, he learns about the value in serving others and created this book as a way of reaching other marginalized children who can so easily be lost in the fray.

“My hope is that children who are experiencing similar situations will read my book and find hope,” said Joffoy. “And hopefully teachers, parents and caregivers who read this story will understand the important role they play in the nurturing of young children.”

“The Boy Who Couldn’t Be Seen” is written and illustrated by Joffoy and is a testimony to his faith in God and in the ability for those who struggle to have second chances at a loving and fulfilled life. Joffoy’s book Is already making a difference in reader’s lives.

Lee D Preston, an Amazon reader and reviewer has this to say:
“This book is an excellent book for those working through emotional abuse and history of neglect. Although it is written through the eyes of a child, it is intuitively helpful for adults as they get in touch with their own wounding and hurt. I recommend this book as a healing source for anyone who’s going through the trauma of childhood abuse and neglect and wants healing.”

“I admire Michael for his willingness to share his past and to offer hope and healing to readers, young and old,” said Lisa Umina, founder and president of Halo Publishing International. “I believe this is an important book for children who are suffering but also for all children so that parents can begin the discussions of speaking up and asking for help when necessary.”

“The Boy Who Couldn’t Be Seen”is now available at Halo Publishing, Amazon and Barnes and Noble, inhard cover for $21.95, in paperback for $11.95 and as an e-book for $9.99.

About Michael Joffoy:
Michael Allen Joffroy is an Aircraft Mechanic who lives in Denver, Colorado, and holds an Airframe and Powerplant Certificate. He’s devoted to his two daughters and is actively in recovery to make a difference in his life and gain a better relationship with God. In his free time he enjoys time with his daughters, music, and art.

About Halo Publishing International:
Halo Publishing International is a self-publishing company that publishes adult fiction and non-fiction, children’s literature, self-help, spiritual, and faith-based books. We continually strive to help authors reach their publishing goals and provide many different services that help them do so. www.HaloPublishing.com

Press & Media Contact:
Lisa Umina, Publisher
Halo Publishing International
1100 NW Loop 410, Suite 700-176
San Antonio, TX 78213 – USA
+1-877-705-9647
contact@halopublishing.com
http://www.HaloPublishing.com

Entertainment

A Community Comes Together in the Delightful Children’s Story “Have You Seen Henry?”

May 14, 2017 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

Author Michael Worley has been creating stories and drawing cartoons since he was a little boy.

Dallas, TX (USA), May 13th, 2017 — Author Michael Worley has been creating stories and drawing cartoons since he was a little boy. His imagination has spawned several other children’s stories including “Sonny the Scarecrow”, “The Quiet Giant”, “A Dog’s Tale”, “Everett the Piano” and “Lacey Shoestring’s Amazing Red Wagon Adventure.” In “Have You Seen Henry?” Worley was inspired by an actual possum encounter in his backyard.

“There was something so intriguing and fun about the possum that wandered into my backyard that I couldn’t resist featuring him in a children’s story,” said Worley. “I love animals and how they interact and as I was writing the story of Henry I began to imagine a community of animals within a neighborhood who are willing to work together for a common good.”

Each of the characters in “Have You Seen Henry?” are beautifully brought to life by illustrator Jorge Chiquillo. Worley uses repetition and clever alliteration with each character’s name like Frieda Fox, Amy Armadillo, and Roger Rooster which help children remember a growing number of adorable animals who come to the aide of Henry’s wife, Henrietta. As the story progresses and tensions mount, Worley shows how friends can encourage and support each other even in difficult times.

“I hope children will learn a lesson in the value of friendship,” said Worley. “In my life I have seen first hand the benefits of willing to help others in their time of need. I believe it is an especially important lesson for children to learn from a young age. Rather than finding fault, we should look for ways to come together with kindness, generosity and friendship.”

“Michael has written such a fun story that children will want to read it over and over,” said Lisa Umina, founder and president of Halo Publishing International. “Each page of the story introduces a new character, building a growing community of friends who are on a hunt for the missing Henry. Children and parents will laugh out loud at the conclusion when they discover Henry in the last place imaginable.”

Worley is hard at work creating a new story about an unlikely alien named George the Goon that he hopes will be brought to life in a feature length animated movie. In the meantime, look for upcoming sequels to “Lacey Shoestring’s Amazing Red Wagon Adventure” and the further adventures of Rex the Dog and Rudy the Rabbit from “A Dog’s Tale.”

“Have You Seen Henry?” is now available at Halo Publishing, Amazon and Barnes and Noble, in hard cover for $17.95.

* Halo Publishing – http://halopublishing.com/7t-z/michael-d.-worley.html

* Amazon – https://www.amazon.com/Have-Seen-Henry-Michael-Worley/dp/1612445667/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1493842073&sr=1-1

* Barnes and Noble – http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/have-you-seen-henry-michael-d-worley/1126325945?ean=2940157570446

About Michael Worley:
The passion for writing stories and drawing cartoons started for Michael Worley while he was just a child. Michael is the author of Sonny the Scarecrow, Everett the Piano, The Quiet Giant, A Dog’s Tale, Lacey Shoestring’s Amazing Red Wagon Adventure, and Have You Seen Henry? Michael owned and operated Pyramid Productions, Inc., in Dallas, Texas for fourteen years. He produced script-to-screen turnkey film and video productions for corporate and commercial advertising. Michael presently owns and operates a successful residential property management company located in Dallas, Texas.

Press & Media Contact:
Lisa M. Umina, Publisher
Halo Publishing International
1100 NW Loop 410, Suite 700-176
San Antonio, TX 78213 – USA
+1 877-705-9647
contact@halopublishing.com

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Unique New Book, Charity The Gifts of Giving, Discusses Benefits Donors Receive from Giving

April 13, 2015 flashnewsrelease Leave a comment

Avid philanthropist and budding author Garret Biss recently released a thought-provoking new book entitled “Charity The Gifts of Giving.”

New Bern, NC (USA), April 13th, 2015 — Avid philanthropist and budding author Garret Biss recently released a thought-provoking new book entitled “Charity The Gifts of Giving.” The unique book discusses how charitable giving, kindness and acts of generosity have an impact not just on recipients, but also on donors. Giving time, money and other resources generates positive energy, feelings of gratitude, a sense of control and many other benefits, according to the book.

Charitable giving is a concept everyone understands and often engages in, but people seldom consider—and discuss—the positive effect that practicing benevolence has on donors. This is the main impetus behind “Charity The Gifts of Giving,” says Biss. “My purpose for this book was to inspire more involvement with charity and selfless acts in everyone’s life,” he says. “If speaking about how these acts benefit us is one way to inspire greater generosity, then this is a story that must be told for the benefit of each of us and all of us.”

“Charity The Gifts of Giving” is designed to focus on a different perspective on philanthropy. The book contains a wealth of insights and information to help readers capitalize on the benefits of charitable giving. For example, it discusses how generosity can help combat anxiety and manage stress, practical ways to give on any budget, websites that help donors give quickly and easily in any way they choose, and how to create a more fulfilling life experience and more joyful interaction with others.

Biss’s book is available at Amazon.com, where it is already being well-received by readers. Here are just some of the favorable comments from reviewers:
* “I have already recommend this book to many of my friends and will continue to. It’s amazing how a simple act of kindness can promulgate happiness to everyone around the giver and the recipient, the message. I this book is simple but speaks volumes to the reader.” (Justin Lopez)
* “This is an inspiring, honest look at the impact of giving and generosity on one’s personal perspective, mindset, and life.” (Dawn Michel)
* “Biss shares a very interesting and unique spin on the act of giving and contribution. I especially liked the idea of making donations as a way of overcoming stress and even depression.” (Coach Bobby G)
* “After reading his book, I’m closer to walking in my purpose and he simply explains why we all should give of ourselves in order to make this a better world. So, take the opportunity to read this book, and your life just simply can’t be the same.” (Corey Prudie)
* “This was a great read and a great reflection on what is at the heart of giving.” (C and J)

“Charity The Gifts of Giving” is available on Amazon in three formats: Kindle for $3.99; audible audio edition for $6.08; and paperback for $8.95. The proceeds from each copy sold will be used to further the efforts of One Million Goal Inc. Established by Biss, One Million Goal Inc. is working to generate enough money and awareness to make a difference with the world’s water problem. As signified by its name, the goal of the non-profit organization is to bring drinking water to one million men, women and children. The need is great, as almost 750 million people lack access to clean drinking water and an estimated 1,700 children die every day from water-related illnesses before they reach their fifth birthday.

Biss has concentrated much of his philanthropic efforts toward addressing the world’s water crisis. His passion in this area is fueled by his belief that water is the most basic of human needs. Biss feels water is not only a necessity for life, but is also vital for making the world a better place. “Even if you have the seed, the soil and the sunshine, the miracle of life doesn’t begin until you add water,” he says. “Fighting tyranny, poverty or disease will provide no enduring cure for suffering if we don’t start by providing water.”

There is also a broader issue at stake, Biss says. “Not only is the water crisis a thirst issue, it is also a gender equality issue, a health issue, a poverty issue, an education issue, a terrorism issue, as well as many more issues,” he explains.

To learn more about Biss’s efforts to combat the world’s water problem, please visit http://www.onemilliongoal.org.

For more information about “Charity The Gifts of Giving” and the benefits of charitable giving, call 252-349-0054 or visit http://amzn.to/1JbN2o7 and http://www.onemilliongoal.org

About Garret Biss:
Garret Biss is the author of “Charity The Gifts of Giving” and the founder of One Million Goal Inc. Biss is passionate about encouraging charitable giving, fighting the world’s water crisis and promoting lifelong learning. He also has a deep interest in the real estate industry. Currently, Biss is in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he has served his country since 1999 and is a KC-130J pilot by trade. In preparation for his transition from military service, Biss is pursuing a Master of Real Estate Development degree from Auburn University and intends to use this education and his experience as an investor and real estate broker to prepare for a future as a real estate developer and real estate investment manager. Biss, who grew up in Wilmington, Del., currently resides in New Bern, N.C.

Press & Media Contact:
Garret Biss, Author
OneMillionGoal.org
New Bern, NC – USA
+1 252-349-0054
charity@onemilliongoal.com
http://amzn.to/1JbN2o7
http://www.onemilliongoal.org

Business

Indulgent Confections Partners with Volunteering Platform, GoVoluntr, to Reward Kindness in The Community

December 8, 2014 straightlinepr Leave a comment

GoVoluntr Participants Can Now Redeem Service Points for a Free Gift from Indulgent Confections

Scottsdale, AZ, December 08, 2014 — Indulgent Confections, a wholesome line of delicious, artesian confections, is pleased to join forces with GoVoluntr, a social network that connects volunteers, non-profits and businesses together into an engaging community of “Do Goodrs.”

GoVoluntr partners with business of all types and sizes to reward the act of volunteerism. The program incentivizes and rewards Do Goodrs with free products and services in exchange for points earned from volunteering service, this way local companies can inspire impact in their community. And when Do Goodrs feel appreciated by local retailers, they’re much more inclined to support those same businesses in the future.

“GoVoluntr is proud to support the Live Confectionately philosophy along with Indulgent Confections. Small indulgences for Do Goodrs means a sweeter life for everyone,” said MJ Fogelsrom, co-founder of GoVoluntr.

How does GoVoluntr work?

GoVoluntr matches individuals with volunteer opportunities and tracks their service hours through a Volunteer ID (VID) system. Those tracked hours can then be shared with their connections and other social sites to share their good deeds and help spread the word about their favorite causes. An individual’s time is recorded for the purpose of redeeming a specific prize.

Businesses can register their product as a reward, giving volunteers a certain number of volunteer hours to work in order to redeem a prize.

Indulgent Confections is excited to offer their delicious creations as a reward for which GoVoluntr’s community of Do Goodr’s can redeem their points.

Indulgent Confections believes that to “Live Confectionately,” defines a lifestyle of treating people with sweetness and random acts of kindness. When Indulgent Confections Founder Glen Flook heard about this cause, he was immediately on board and wanted to give back to GoVoluntr participants.

Flook said, “We are very excited about our partnership with GoVoluntr. This is the perfect opportunity to partner with a company who believes in our motto, “Live Confectionately.” It’s our pleasure to support community volunteering efforts through GoVoluntr.”

About GoVoluntr:
GoVoluntr is a social network that connects volunteers, non-profits and businesses together into an engaging community of “Do Goodrs.” We match individuals with volunteer opportunities and track their service hours through our Volunteer ID (VID) system. Those tracked hours can then be shared with their connections and other social sites to share their good deeds and help spread the word about their favorite causes.

The real fun begins when volunteers start accumulating hours. Do Goodrs earn Volunteer Pin (VPins) as well as points to showcase and reward their community stewardship and activity! Points can be exchanged for rewards from local merchants and favorite brands to get our Do Goodrs real world prizes!

GoVoluntr provides a new way for businesses to interact with non-profits and champion causes in their community. We give businesses a turn-key employee volunteer program, a powerful cause-related marketing platform, and on-demand reporting of all their activity.

We make it easy for volunteers, non-profits and businesses to do good.
Find out more about GoVoluntr here: http://govoluntr.com/.

About Indulgent Confections:
Indulgent Confections, started in 2013, is the wonderfully satisfying result of bringing together artisan confectionary recipes, the most wholesome ingredients and an unrelenting commitment to quality. This loving attention to detail enables us to offer a decadently delicious, beautifully packaged product that makes an outstanding gift, a celebration or just a little reward for a job well done.

Indulgent Confections is available at fine retailers and online at Amazon.com. We also offer a Corporate Gift Program for thanking customers and rewarding employees.

Our products are more than delicious. They represent a belief that life’s sweetest moments and dearest friendships are enhanced by small indulgences. That it’s often the little things that says a lot. With that thought in mind, we offer our exquisitely delicious line of fine confections. http://www.indulgent-confections.com/

Live Confectionately!

Contact:
Scott Kelly
Black Dog Promotions
9920 S. Rural Rd., Ste 108
Tempe, AZ 85284
480-206-3435
scott@blackdogpromotions.com
http://www.blackdogpromotions.com