The Bare Essentials Of Safety

Suffice it to say, this is one airline safety video that captures my attention. Would you watch?



If you didn't figure it out, YES, they are all naked. That is some very strategic body paint and positioning!

Do You Hear What I Hear?

Did you miss tuning into last week's live airing of Ready Radio? 

Good. There were a few technical difficulties. Not many. Just enough to make Lise and me giggle. But with a snip of the digital scissors and a little dab of audio superglue, the awesome folks at the Small Plate Radio Network were able to patch everything together smooth as new. 

Now you can download it on your iPod and learn all about:

- the woman who learned to swim as an adult

- the realism (or lack thereof) in disaster movies

- our picks for the most amazing canned foods

- the meaning, and proper pronunciation, of our favorite weather-related word: derecho.

Listen and let us know what you think! We'd love your suggestions for show topics and resources.  

You can download it on iTunes, or listen to it streaming on readyradio.sprnetwork.com (where you can also find blog posts detailing all the resources we mention in the show). 

Summer Reading Recommendation: The Weather of the Pacific Northwest by Cliff Mass

As you may know, I grew up in the Midwest where the weather is dynamic and often extreme. And -  since most of the land is flat - you can literally see it coming a mile away. I prided myself on my ability to smell an impending storm or see the see the signs of a tornado. 

I knew my weather.

And then I moved here. 

Here we have mountains, valleys, hills, cavernous gorges and ocean winds. Sometimes I can't tell what the clouds are doing two blocks away. It has completely thrown off my weather-sense. (A secret power way cooler than spider-sense, by the way.) 

That's why I was excited when I happened across this book by University of Washington atmospheric scientist Cliff Mass. Entitled simply The Weather of The Pacific Northwest, it's a comprehensive and beautiful guide to our fair region's not-always-fair weather. Using both graphs and photographs, Mass lays out how our weather works and why it's so hard to predict.

Katie Schneider of The Oregonian said in her review of the book, "Mass... debunks the myth that the weather here is bland, mild and dreary.... [His book's] depth and breadth should appeal to anyone who has wondered why Hood River gets consistently strong winds or what cloud patterns really mean for storm conditions in the Cascades." 

Sound boring? It's not. 

Check it out. Know your weather. 

Summer Fashion: Red Hot Vintage Blood Tees

Are you cool enough to rock this shirt? Vintage Blood Tees are totally all the rage this summer..."No they're not," you say? Well, they could be.

Like most weekends, I managed to squeeze in a little thrifting. And, like most weekends, I found something blood-related while I was out and about. There's seriously blood everywhere in this city!

If you'd like to feel worthy of wearing this shirt (and if you'd like to be ahead of the Vintage Blood Tee trend), add another pint to your Gallon Donor goal today. Call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or visit givelife.org.

Photo: Me at the Red Light on Hawthorne and part of my boyfriend's index finger...iphone camera not so user-friendly.

Mourning MJ? Honor His Memory By Learning CPR.

The internet is abuzz with the news of Michael Jackson's death.

When I first heard the word of his cardiac arrest (on Twitter, actually), I immediately wondered if those who were nearby at the time knew CPR.

With a little more research, I found early news reports that stated paramedics did indeed perform CPR...but they were never able to get him breathing again.

I own Bad and -- strangely enough -- the Thriller video came up as a topic of conversation recently. I'm also a huge fan of the Jackson 5. In fact, my ringtone has been "I Want You Back" for at least a year now. And who doesn't get their groove back when "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough" comes on? So, yeah, I'm bummed.

There are a billion ways to mourn MJ, whether you set up an impromptu memorial or lay flowers at a grave. But the best way to honor his memory might be to get trained in CPR. That way the next time someone goes into sudden cardiac arrest, you could be the one ready to save their life.

Watch "Never Can Say Goodbye" by the Jackson 5.

Marching to the Beat of the Red Cross Drum

A few things I love: Portland, summertime, the Red Cross, and parades. That's why I'm excited to put on a Red Cross t-shirt tomorrow morning and march with fellow Red Cross staff, volunteers, and supporters in the Good In the Neighborhood parade. Yay for parades!

Good in the Neighborhood is an annual multicultural festival in N/NE Portland that includes music, food, activities for kids, an ethnic marketplace, and a parade. The festival starts today(6/26) and ends on Sunday (6/28). Admission is free and most activities are held at King School Park (4800 Block of N.E. 6th).

The Good in the Neighborhood Parade starts at 11am at Dawson Park near the Red Cross and ends at King School Park. I just looked at the route for the parade, and it's a little longer than I thought it would be (2 miles of marching!?). I'll definitely need to wear good shoes and bring a water bottle. Does anyone want to meet up at the parade finish to supply me with Gatorade and orange slices?

Come cheer on the Red Cross tomorrow morning during the parade and also check out the festival activites at King School Park. Food, entertainment, activities for kids, shopping...sounds pretty fun to me!

Photo: Red Cross mascot Buddy Blood Drop marching in last year's Good in the Neighborhood Parade. (No, he's not a red Hershey's Kiss).

If Edward Gorey Worked for the RC...

I don't want to steal Tara's thunder on Spanish language YouTube videos, but MorningStar Padilla, one of the other AmeriCorps members serving at the chapter, located an excellent video on "Red Crossers" vanquishing the Grim Reaper. This is a fun artistic perspective on our amazing (and varied) work done around the world. WARNING: This may be considered rather violent to some (even if it's animated)!

Now You're Grilling With Gas

We're closing in on the July 4 weekend, a time when many of you might be rolling out the grill and cooking up some BBQ...perhaps even of the vegan variety.

But check this out:

In 2003-2006, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 7,900 home fires involving grills, hibachis or barbecues per year. These fires caused annual average of 10 civilian deaths (to the nearest ten), 120 reported injuries and $80 million in direct property damage.

And although gas grills are used roughly 1.5 times as often as charcoal grills, they were involved in five times as many fires. About 6,400 home fires, in fact.

So, yeah, maybe you should think twice before hitting that red button. Check out these grilling safety tips from our friends at the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and watch the nice video they've put together starring Principal Gas Engineer Ted Lemoff.

Between Heart and Hand

Support the Red Cross and change a life, starting with your own.



Apoya a la Cruz Roja y cámbiale la vida a alguien, empezando por la tuya.

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

Welcome to the Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up, in which we consolidate the international Red Cross and Red Crescent news into one list of bite-sized links for you...

[The place names link to maps so that you can get a quick idea of the region.]

KENYA: An entire community - 130,000 strong - has grown around a water well the Red Cross built in 2007. They call it simply "Borehole 11."

TANZANIA: Bicycles and radios - two tools in an early warning system developed for tsunamis. 

IRAQ: With the hot season in full swing, the ICRC has been working on repairing water infrastructure and meeting emergency water needs. Read a full report of last month's activities here.

ITALY: Hundreds of youth volunteers from around the globe are converging on the city of Solferino to discuss humanitarian issues and commemorate the Battle of Solferino, which led to the creation International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement 150 years ago.

WORLDWIDE: 

- The ICRC has published a survey showing the impact of hostilities on civilians. Among the findings: Of those people directly affected by hostilities, 56% said they had been displaced by fighting, while almost half said they had lost contact with a loved one. 

- According to a 2008 report by the World Health Organization, road injury is the biggest killer of people aged 10 to 24, topping AIDS, tuberculosis, respiratory infections, suicide and war. The IRFC's Global Road Safety Partnership aims to change that.

GLOSSARY:
ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

School's Out For Summer...But What To Do With The Kids?

Last Monday was a great day.

That's because, in my child-free world, it's the first day that school's out and my morning commute gets a LOT faster.

For you, in your perhaps child-full world, it might not be such cause for jubilation. In all likelihood, you work during the day and you now have to worry about what to do with the kids while you're at the office. Are they okay to be home alone? Is the older one mature enough to babysit?

Honestly, not every summer day can be filled with camp. Believe me, my parents tried (with this and this and this), but there were still days when alternative arrangements had to be made.

That's why I'm pointing you in the direction of this article about leaving your child home alone and these classes, designed to get your kid ready for babysitting or being home by themselves.

Whatever your plans this summer, teaching your child this sort of responsibility can be a good (and potentially lucrative) thing.

We can't promise our classes are as much fun as waterskiing or archery or other summer camp activities, but they come at a bargain price (scholarships available!) and definitely teach life-long skills!

Photo courtesy of Daquella manera

525,600 Minutes Condensed Into Two

Now you've got that song from RENT stuck in your head, don't you? Ha! Well I'm not talking about that (though I am, coincidentally, going to see RENT at the Keller Auditorium tomorrow night... yay!!!). 

I'm talking about the 525,600 minutes that made up this fiscal year. 

Okay, so maybe nobody is going to make a smash-hit Broadway play about it, but this past year was pretty amazing for us. So I pulled together a bunch of photos and made this little two minute year-end wrap-up montage for tonight's annual meeting (because you know I love wrap-ups).

Photo Find: International Space Station Captures A Volcanic Eruption

While orbiting just northeast of Japan about a week ago, the crew of the International Space Station caught this stunning scene of Sarychev Volcano erupting.

See that gigantic area labeled "pyroclastic flow?" That's one of the reasons you should always heed warnings about a volcano's "restricted zones."

More volcano safety tips at OregonRedCross.org/volcanoes.

Youth Converge on the Birthplace of the Red Cross to Discuss Humanitarian Challenges

Think today's youth aren't motivated? Think again.

This week more than thirty American Red Cross youth volunteers and youth advisors are traveling all the way to the small town of Solferino, Italy to commemorate and learn from the events that inspired the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement 150 years ago.

They'll be joining 600 youth representatives from around the world discussing humanitarian challenges of the past, present and future.

You can follow their journey at RedCrossYouth.org.

Critic Chokes, Tina Thrusts

Tina of Tina's Groove is a single, smart, attractive waitress who works in Pepper's Restaurant. And, as we've seen before, she uses her life-saving skills on a regular basis.

This Father's Day, she prepared to administer abdominal thrusts...

With any luck, she'll save the life of the critic. And if you frequent restaurants -- either as an employee or just a diner -- you might want to take the time to learn how to save a life yourself.

Vampire Kitty Strikes Again!

Remember what I already told you about Vampire Kitties? I tried to warn you, but you didn't listen. Forget about garlic as a means of defense; Vampire Kitties are instantly repelled by the sight of blood donors. Sign up to donate blood today and you'll never have to worry again about a Vampire Kitty attacking you in your sleep. Just look at what a Vampire Kitty did to this sweet little guy!

Disclaimer: No animals were harmed in the writing of this blog.

Photos:1) ihasahotdog.com 2) etsy.com artist Minoupitou

Fire Instruction FAIL

Hahahahahaha! ...Oh... Okay, I'm calming down now. [Deep breath to stop the laughter.] Whew.

A friend just sent me this photo she saw on FAIL Blog. And, yes, I must agree those are really not good instructions for a fire. "Leave as fast as you do at closing time." That pretty much depends on how much the person reading that sign likes their job, right?

In all seriousness, I hope being featured on FAIL Blog prompts them to get a new sign because bad fire instructions are SO not funny.

Want some better fire tips? OregonRedCross.org/homefires

Salem Doctor Helps to Organize Blood Drives After Receiving Blood

Working at the Red Cross, it's not uncommon to hear inspirational stories about someone whose life was touched or saved by a service of the Red Cross. After hearing so many such stories, you would think I'd be immune to their tear-inducing properties. Not so. Every time I hear a new one, I turn into a whimpering, sentimental softie. It's kind of embarrassing.

Recently I was inspired by an article in the Statesman Journal about a Salem, Oregon doctor named Joel Hopkin. As a result of an accident that crushed both of his legs, Joel needed multiple surgeries and 26 units of blood to help save his life. He also received plasma transfusions and 22 units of packed red blood cells.

What's particularly amazing about Joel's recovery is that he maintained an optimistic attitude throughout the entire process. Grateful for the blood he received, he even helped to organize Red Cross blood drives.

From the article:

...in the middle of what should have been denial, anger, acceptance and grief for what would be lost, the Hopkins helped organize blood drives in Salem and Albany...The response was the stuff of Red Cross dreams. Full appointment schedules for the event and weeks of donations following the drives. The Hopkins received donor cards for months following the sleeve roll-ups. "Our sharing...gives us strength," Joel said. "We know well that you can find yourself relying on the gift of others to survive, so it's time to do it again."

Next Thursday, June 25, Joel and his wife have helped to organize a blood drive at Crossler Middle School in Salem from 1:30pm to 6:30pm. You can make an appointment to donate at the drive by calling (503) 585-5416. Or visit http://www.givelife.org/ and enter the code "oursaviorsalem."

AED-ecision Making Time In Congress!

I am incredibly proud of my AED play on words here and I dare you to disagree. That said, I found some VERY exciting legislative news that relates to Lise's post on life-saving AED (Automatic External Defillibrator) promotion.

During National CPR and AED Awareness Week, on Tuesday, June 2, the US House of Representatives passed H.R. 1380, an American Red Cross-endorsed bill entitled the "Josh Miller HEARTS Act." This legislation would provide grant money for AEDs in elementary and secondary schools across the country!

Ken Miller is the father of a lost son who's tragedy so-named the act. Ken Miller states, "I trust the bill will save a lot of Americans heartache that is just unnecessary. If there is a chance to save these children, we must do something."

We CAN do something, by encouraging the US Senate to introduce the bill. Check out this sample request letter as a necessary "charge" for the senate, so to speak (that's pun number two).

Symbol for an AED courtesy of wikimedia.org

Disaster Action Team Responses

June 18, 2009 a family had a fire in their side of a duplex, in Sherwood. The Red Cross volunteers met with the family, and assisted the one adult and one child with:

-Lodging in a nearby motel.
-A client assistance card to shop for food and clothing.

Step Up to the Plate and Donate!

Before fireworks, barbeques, and beers, help save some lives this 4th of July by donating blood or platelets. Apple pie, baseball, and helping to save lives...how patriotic!

What: Celebrate Freedom Blood Drive
When: Saturday, July 4
Where: Red Cross Portland Center
3131 N. Vancouver Ave.
Portland, OR 97227

Details: Activities for kids, entertainment by the Rose City Clowns. Free giveaways for presenting blood and platelet donors: Shari’s apple pie, event t-shirt, 2-for-1 discount Beaver Baseball tickets (all while supplies last)

Why: Help save lives and get free apple pie...because giving blood can be delicious!

How: Call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE to reserve your appointment time or visit www.givelife.org and enter sponsor code "celebrateatpdx"

Sign The Petition: Teach the Geneva Conventions In Our Nation's Schools!

"Steward of conflict resolution." I like that title. What if every American child grew up to be one?

That's why I've signed this Facebook petition calling on our nation's schools to make sure that every American child grows up well versed in International Humanitarian Law.

If you read our weekly Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Ups, you know the struggles of so many civilians around the world who are living in the midst of armed conflict. 

I hope you'll join me in signing the petition.

About this Petition:

The United States plays an important role in foreign affairs. Accordingly, international humanitarian law should be taught in our schools to ensure we continue to understand and observe the limits of armed conflict.

Schools should teach students about the Geneva Conventions. Humanitarian law education helps students understand the challenges and limits of war, and in the process, reduces human suffering from armed conflict.

To educate students about the importance of international humanitarian law, the Red Cross developed Exploring Humanitarian Law (EHL), a non-partisan school curriculum that presents multiple viewpoints. Students learn that there are no easy answers in war and that armed conflict inevitably raises serious dilemmas and trade-offs. Teachers report that it is easy for them to incorporate EHL into their existing curricula, and that it has a track record of engaging and inspiring their students.

As Brigadier General Patrick Finnegan (the Dean of the Academic Board at West Point) says, “[it] is essential to understand and respect the rule of law because that defines what we are about as a nation and the leader of the free world. When others do not respect or follow the law, it is even more important that we remember who we are and what we stand for as a country. The American Red Cross EHL program helps young people understand not only what is legal, but also what is right.”

Please note that in order to continue to enjoy the confidence of all, the American Red Cross may not take sides in hostilities or engage at any time in controversies of a political, racial, religious or ideological nature. As a part of its mission, the American Red Cross helps to raise awareness about international humanitarian law. (show less)
The Desired Outcome of this Petition:

School districts should incorporate a curriculum that teaches students about the Geneva Conventions. We will petition school district superintendents to include the Exploring Humanitarian Law program in secondary schools. Through this curriculum reform, our nation’s students will become more civically engaged and stewards of conflict resolution.

Let's reach that 100,000 signatures!

ReStarting DC With An AED

Did you know?

• Sudden cardiac arrest happens every 2 minutes in the US. That's 700+ times a day and 300,000 times a year.
  
• Nationwide, the survival rate for out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrest is only 7%.
  
• BUT, using an AED - especially in the first 3 minutes - can increase survival from 7% to 60%.

If you had watched this story on The Today Show, you'd already know all of this. And you'd know about ReStart DC, a very cool campaign that we'd love to someday replicate here. Watch...and then learn how to use an AED yourself by signing up for a class:

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

It's A Pool Party!

Funny story -- I was invited to a party a few weeks ago where the invite mentioned, "games, pool, hot tub." Immediately, my mind went to a home pool where I could show off one of my super fierce vintage bathing suits.

Alas, with a more careful reading, I realized that they were probably referring to pool (as in with a cue), which turned out to be exactly the case.

Sigh.

Since then, I've been trying to cultivate a friend or two with a home pool. This being Portland, it's not so easy. But when I find these new buddies, I'm totally sending them to this website.

Honestly, I don't want to swim in a pool where the owner doesn't 1. know how to maintain it (gross) and 2. know how to save my life if something goes awry. Would you?

For two hours and 20 bucks, the owner gets a printable resource guide, proof of course completion and some major peace of mind for themselves and their guests. If you happen to own a pool in PDX (or know someone who does), send them here.

And then tell them if they want a new friend, I'm totally available.

Photo courtesy of celikins.

America Abroad: Interrogating Torture

Did any of you catch the episode of America Abroad that aired Tuesday night on OPB Radio?

The topic was "Interrogating Torture" and the first segment focused primarily on the history of the Geneva Conventions, including their start with Henry Dunant.

If you didn't know this already, the Red Cross is responsible for educating the public about the Geneva Conventions. We do this with free classes held here at our offices -- hopefully we'll get another one scheduled soon.

You can also educate yourself by taking a look at a few of these links:

The Geneva Conventions, the International Committee of the Red Cross and the Rights of Prisoners of War
The International Committee of the Red Cross
Full texts of the Geneva Conventions
Introduction to International Humanitarian Law
American Red Cross Congressional Charter (PDF)

Disaster Action Team Responses

On June 11, a family in Willamina had a fire in their apartment. The family needed a place to stay and clothing. When the Yamhill American Red Cross volunteers arrived they assisted the family of 2 adults and 4 children with:

--Lodging in a nearby motel.
--A client assistance card to shop for clothes.

On June 16, 2009 a family in Portland had a house fire. The family as insurance, but did need assistance from Fred Cross. When the American Red Cross volunteers arrived they assisted the family of 2 adults and 2 children with the following:

--Lodging in a nearby motel.
-A client assistance card to shop for food and clothing.

Just $10 To Save A Life

There is nothing scarier than the death of a teen athlete. Someone young and fit suddenly collapses and -- POW! -- reality hits home. Cardiac emergencies really can happen to anyone, at any time.

While we continue to advocate for schools to have AEDs and staff trained in CPR, it's also important to get kids screened so they know if heart issues are something to watch out for.

That's why I'm so glad to see my former employer -- Legacy Emanuel Children's Hospital -- stepping up to the plate and holding a teen athlete cardiac screening.

Here are the details:

Saturday, July 18
8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Memorial Coliseum, Georgia Pacific Room
Cost: Just $10, and fee assistance is available.

Screenings include a full cardiac health exam (blood pressure, height and weight); an electrocardiogram (EKG); and a detailed cardiac history.

You must make an appointment for the screening, so call 503-335-3500 to pre-register before July 10.

When I read stories like this, I can't help but wonder if a life could have been saved with an early screening or an AED at the scene. Don't miss this inexpensive way to check out your child's cardiac health.

Prepare-aphernalia: Pocket Posh Game Books

If you listened to the first episode of Ready Radio, you know that we talked about how to stay entertained while you shelter in place.

While we mostly focused on card games and board games, we did touch on some activities that are perfect for word (and number) nerds.

To that end, I thought I'd point out these incredibly cute "Pocket Posh" game books, which ensure that you don't forsake style, even in a storm. Crosswords, Sudoku, Word Search, Logic and many more, your $8 investment will be much appreciated when you've got hours to kill.

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

Welcome to the Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up, in which we consolidate the international Red Cross and Red Crescent news into one list of bite-sized links for you...

[The place names link to maps so that you can get a quick idea of the region.]

MALDIVES: Please welcome the Maldivian Red Crescent as the newest member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. For almost five years, American Red Cross workers have been helping the Maldivian people train their own volunteers and establish the framework for their own Red Crescent society.  

INDONESIA: After more than four years of building thousands of shelters, earthquake resistant homes and wells, the Australian Red Cross is now wrapping up the tsunami programs - shifting their focus livelihood projects in other areas of Indonesia.

MONACO: A film called Gaza – Sderot : chroniques d'avant-guerre (Gaza and Sderot – before the war came) won the ICRC press prize at the 49th Monte Carlo Television Festival by ARTE France Développement. The film depicts "the day-to-day lives of Palestinians in Gaza and Israelis in Sderot, just three kilometres away, a few weeks before the Israeli military began its attacks on Gaza in December 2008." You can watch it here.

PHILIPPINES: In an area where the shore is regularly "eaten by the sea," the Philippine National Red Cross is busy building sea walls, planning evacuation routes and running drills.

WORLDWIDE: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. The World Disasters Report,  recently released by the IFRC says, "humanitarians must adopt a new mindset and respond to the global economic crisis by fostering a cost-effective culture of prevention."

GLOSSARY:
ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Volcano Views and Brews Tonight

We're big fans of the Volcano Views and Brews series put on by the Mount St. Helens Institute. They often invite experts to talk about geological aspects of the disastrous phenomenon of volcanic eruption.

Tonight's talk is on our local volcano's latest activity.  

P.S. "Monument Scientist" is one of the coolest job titles ever...

The Mount St. Helens Institute presents

Volcano Views and Brews

June 16, 2009

 

Mount St. Helens Comes Back to Life!

The 2004-2008 Eruption of Mount St. Helens

with Peter Frenzen, Monument Scientist

 

In 2004, after nearly two decades of quiescence, Mount St. Helens awoke to the surprise of most geologists. During this eruption, the lava dome of Mount St. Helens grew at an astounding rate. By 2008, Mount St. Helens returned to slumber. Come learn about this “dome-building event” and discuss the possibility of future eruptions at Mount St. Helens with the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument Scientist, Peter Frenzen.

 

Peter Frenzen began working at the Monument in 1987 where he now serves as where he serves as Monument Scientist and Public Affairs Officer. Peter has a talent for making the science occurring at Mount St. Helens accessible to the rest of us. He received an MS in Forest Ecology from Oregon State University in 1983 and a BS in Forest Management from the University of Washington in 1980.  

 

Sit, nurse a pint and learn something new every month at Volcano Views and Brews.  Volcano Views and Brews is held on the third Tuesday of each month at the Lucky Labrador, 1945 NW Quimby in Portland, Oregon.  Tickets are $5 and available at the door.  Food and beverages are available separately for purchase.  Doors open at 5:00 pm and the speaker will begin at 7:00 pm.  All ages are welcome.  Space is limited so arrive early.  

 

Fashion Finds: Summer REDecorating

Here's another sanguine selection to go with these Blood Bucket lamps that Robin told us about a few months ago. Host a dinner party around this table and you're sure to have a bloody good time... or, at the very least, you'll have some interesting conversation about how in the world this table is constructed.





You'll surely need some sort of beverage to accompany your dessert after dinner is over. Why not serve up a hot cup of joe in this quirky hand painted nurse mug from etsy artist The House of Harriet?








After dinner, dessert, and drinks, you're going to feel pretty dead tired. Take a nap (and give your friends a bit of a fright) on this inflatable blood spill pillow. Half hilarious, half disturbing... almost too morbid for the blog, but it made me laugh.






For more blood design fun, click here [warning: some of the items are a bit creepy and mildly gross!].

To make an appointment to donate some real blood, call 1-800-GIVE LIFE or visit givelife.org.

Now You Have No Excuse Not To Read It

Speaking of survival books, guess what just came out in paperback today?

One of my favorite books, The Unthinkable: Who Survives When Disaster Strikes - and Why.

I love this book because author Amanda Ripley challenges our assumptions about how we'd react in an emergency - illustrating her points with a poetic balance of moving personal survival stories and cold, hard research. I like to call her "the Malcolm Gladwell of disaster writing" because this book provokes "ah ha!" moments about human behavior in the same way as Gladwell's The Tipping Point or Blink.

Check out just this one little excerpt from the book in which Elia Zedeño - a survivor of both the 1993 and September, 2001 World Trade Center disasters - prompts Ripley to investigate why people hesitate. 

You can preview a few more pages (less fuzzy copies) on Amazon before you decide to toss down a mere $10 for one of the best preparedness resources you'll ever own. 

Sharing Stories Of Survival

What goes hand in hand with disasters? Survivors.

Whether it's Pierce Brosnan and Mayor Rachel surviving the inferno of Dante's Peak (yeah, I totally watched it last night) or the rugby team that survived 72 days in the mountains, I'm a sucker for survival stories of all types.

Here at the Red Cross, we try to get people prepared for anything...even the unexpected. Packing wilderness essentials can help; knowing CPR/first aid is useful as well. But sometimes you just have to depend on your smarts and plain old luck to get you through.

This is why I read the reviews of "Crazy for the Storm" and "Down Around Midnight" in this Sunday's Oregonian with interest. Two plane crashes; two survivors; two compelling stories.

Oh, and one author reading. Check out Norman Ollestad as he reads from "Crazy for the Storm" at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at Powell's City of Books, 1005 W. Burnside St.

Attending? Let us know if you pick up any good survival tips...

Flickr Find: A Visual Guide to Donating Blood for the First Time

Today we found a great photo sequence on Flickr that documents a first-time blood donor's step-by-step experience during the blood donation process. It's a fantastic visual for those of you who have never donated blood and are unsure of what the process is like. (Notice the doughnuts at the end...a tasty, well-deserved reward for doing a good deed!).

Each blood donor goes through four main steps: 1) registration and required reading, 2) health history and mini-physical, 3) blood donation, and 4) refreshments. The whole process takes about an hour and the actual blood donation part takes less than 10 minutes.

If you've never donated blood and you're thinking about becoming a "First-Time Donor," as we like to say at the Red Cross, here are some tips to help your donation experience go smoothly.

Pre-Donation Tips:
-Get a good night’s sleep.
-Drink extra water and fluids (avoid caffeinated drinks).
-Eat healthy meals that include iron-rich foods: red meat, fish, poultry, beans, iron-fortified cereals, raisins, prunes, etc.
-Avoid fatty foods such as hamburgers, fries or ice cream (don't worry, you get to eat sugary, delicious treats after you donate!)
-Wear clothing with sleeves that can be raised above the elbow.

Post-Donation Tips:
-Enjoy snacks and drinks in the refreshment area right after you donate
-Rehydrate by drinking plenty of fluids (water!) over the next 24-48 hours
-Avoid strenuous physical activity or heavy lifting for about five hours after donation
-If you feel light-headed, lie down with your feet elevated until the feeling passes.
-Relax! You just did a really amazing thing; you helped save lives by giving of your time and blood. You deserve to take a breath and chill out for a while.

Take that first step to become a blood donor; make an appointment to donate blood by calling 1-800-GIVE LIFE, or click here.

Be Prepared For Anything...The T-Shirt!

You've seen the design on our Twitter page and in our Ready Radio logo. The good natured humor, the preparedness message -- what's not to love?

And now you can show your Red Cross pride (and inspire a laugh or two) with your very own "Be prepared for anything" t-shirt!

Order it online for just $12. Right now it comes in S-XL, but if it sells out, we might order more sizes next time around.

P.S. Extra special super thanks to graphic designer and volunteer extraordinaire Emily Steen!

P.P.S. Aside from keeping you warm, this t-shirt should give you a warm, fuzzy feeling, given that your $$ go right back into helping us save and rebuild lives here in Oregon!

See You Sunday At The Pride Parade!

Woohoo! It's parade season again! Two weeks ago, we rocked the Starlight Parade (check out the cool float photos). And this Sunday we are once again marching in the Portland Pride Parade. 

If you're there, give us a wave. It should be a lot of fun. We'll be carrying CPR4LGBTQ banners and blasting dance tunes from a staff member's 1966 convertible Bronco. How cool is that?

 

Listen Up, Listen In!

Yesterday was the debut episode of our new internet radio show/podcast, Ready Radio!

The show is all about preparedness - making it relevant and fun while giving you practical tips for practically anything. (Yes, that's a catchy tagline we came up with. You like it?)

Give it a listen. You'll hear interviews from a card game connoisseur and the makers of Cougar Gold canned cheese - the tastiest prepare-aphernalia in the Northwest. You'll also learn a thing or two about treating kitchen knife wounds and how you can learn CPR while wearing your pajamas.

Lise and I will be hosting the Ready Radio series - kindly produced by Portland's own Small Plate Radio Network - every other Thursday at 1pm. (Which means the next one will be June 25th. ) You can listen live online - and even IM us questions - at that time. Or afterward you can listen online or on iTunes.

We hope you enjoy it. Let us know what you think. Critiques and suggestions are welcome!

"Rebuilding Their Future One Fence Post At A Time"

I just read an article on Hurricane Ike that reminded me of how natural disasters often leave a mark many months and even years after the event. While it is critical to provide the basic necessities during and directly after an emergency, what can often be abandoned in news headlines are the long-term effects of disasters.

What happens to Texas cattle ranchers and the economy when environmental devastation occurs? Where are Hurricane Katrina disaster victims living after shelters were forced to close down? Many opinions are thrown around on how FEMA, the Red Cross and other emergency aid organizations help out in the long term. Rather than pass any judgment on our own organization or others, I'm simply advocating that we be cognizant of the disaster-related issues that endure past "newsworthy" articles.

Educate yourself, lend a hand and be grateful for your community coming together after an emergency threatens your well being!

Photo courtesy of worldweatherpost.com

We May Be Living Next To A "Supervolcano"

No, I didn't make that word up. It doesn't mean "volcano that Robin thinks is super awesome."

According to The Oregonian, scientists are now saying that underneath Mount St. Helens may lie a giant molten supervolcano that has the capacity to cough up enough ash to block sunlight and lower the temperature by several degrees Celsius. 

When could it blow? Oh, anytime within the next several hundred thousand years. One scientist says, "I don't think it will be tomorrow, but I couldn't try to predict when it would happen." It never hurts to be prepared. Tips at www.OregonRedCross.org/volcanoes.

For more info and a very cool photo slideshow of Mount St. Helens, check out the article. 

Celebrate World Blood Donor Day on 6/14

This Sunday 6/14 the American Red Cross joins thousands of other organizations and individuals around the world to recognize blood donors on World Blood Donor Day. The goal of the day is to raise awareness about the constant need for safe blood all over the globe.

So how will you celebrate World Blood Donor Day? I have a suggestion for you. I bet you can't guess what it is! Ok, I'll tell you...you can make an appointment to donate blood by calling 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or by clicking here.

To learn more about this unique holiday and special events associated with the date, click here.

For Your Reading Pleasure...

Two article for you before we run off to do something a little more exciting:

10 Things Every Girl Should Know How To Do Before She's 25

I actually know how to do the vast majority of these, including the most important -- how to perform CPR/first aid. The two things that go beyond my skills and abilities? Using a stick shift and changing a flat. My dad would be so disappointed...

CPR: Why You Should Know It

This writer makes a good argument for learning the skills to save a life. Ronnie happened to be near a group of people who were drinking, swimming and diving (not the most brilliant combo) when the worst happened. Fortunately, there were people around who knew what to do.

If you'd like to learn the skills to save a life yourself -- or just want to check an item off your list -- you can sign up for classroom training or do it 24/7 online.

100 Years Of Nursing Goodies

Like vintage Red Cross items? You should check out the new Flickr slideshow with a display of items from the last 100 years of Red Cross nursing.

See if you can spot the matchbook, razor, bed pan and a few other weird and wonderful things...

"Red Cross Racers" Place Fifth in the 2009 Dragon Boat Races

Last Sunday, the "Red Cross Racers," a dedicated team of 25 Red Cross staff members, family, friends, and volunteers, took fifth place in their division of the 2009 Rose Festival Dragon Boat Races. Throughout the weekend, the Red Cross Racers rowed their way to the finish line a total of four times, each 535 meter race lasting about three minutes.

Today I sat down with Red Cross Racers' captain Deanna Janes to find out more about what it's like to be a Dragon Boat racer. I have to say, I'm seriously impressed by the time and dedication put forth by each team member. The practice schedule is intense! The team got together three times a week for a total of ten weeks. It takes a lot out of you physically, but according to Deanna, Dragon Boat racing is more of "a sport of focus, commitment, and of course, having fun."

The Red Cross Racers' practice schedule begins in early March when, as any Portlander knows, the weather is typically less than pleasant. "It sounds like it should be kind of miserable," Deanna told me, "it's rainy, cold, and often dark when we practice." But Deanna says the elements can't stop the team: "it's completely worth it to brave the weather--the team is just so great. I'm sad the season is over."

Although the 2009 racing season has come to an end, it won't be long before Deanna starts to plan the 2010 team. If you're a Red Cross staffer, volunteer, or supporter and you're interested in being on the team, leave a comment on this blog and I'll connect you to Deanna.

Congratulations to the Red Cross Racers for a fantastic racing season! Thank you for braving, wind, rain, and water to represent the Red Cross at such an important and iconic Portland tradition.

Photos: 1) The Red Cross Racers team, 2) The Red Cross Racers stretching and doing visualization exercises before a big race, 3) The Red Cross Racers on the Willamette River showing off their months of hard work

Be the Match "Marrowthon"

The National Marrow Donor Program is holding its nationwide "Be the Match Marrowthon" from June 8 -22, allowing those willing to donate marrow or blood stem cells to join the registry for free. Normally, this costs between $50 - $100, so this is a fantastic opportunity. I just signed myself up--something I've been wanting to do for quite some time--and it only took me about 7 minutes to sign up online. I'm really hoping I'm a match for somebody someday!

Red Cross blood donors, staff, volunteers and supporters are invited to go to the Web site and use the registration code PDX210066. This code is available from June 8 - June 22, 2009. Funding for the Marrowthon is limited, so sign up today. This really is an awesome opportunity.

With questions about the Marrowthon, please call 503-241-2242 ext. 15477. Or write to: druejone@nmdp.org.

Only about 30 percent of patients requiring marrow or stem-cell transplants can find a matching donor within their families; the rest require unrelated donors...maybe an unrelated donor like you?

Click here for FAQ about the marrow registry.

Sit Back, Relax, and Donate

I'm pretty lazy. I'm not going to lie about it. My lazy tendencies date back to elementary school and the days of long after school couch naps, accompanied by Cheez-its, Bagel Bites and The Simpsons. How many countless hours did I spend zonked out in my parents' living room? Time wasted? No! Time well spent if you ask me.

Here at the Red Cross we like to encourage active, healthy lifestyles, but we also think you deserve to relax a little every now and then. That's why we're giving you the chance to win a free La-Z-Boy recliner or a $499 gift certificate to La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries.

To be eligible to win, all you have to do is present to donate blood or platelets between July 1 and August 31, 2009 at a Red Cross blood drive in the Pacific Northwest area. It's that easy! We even make entering the contest lazy-person-friendly.

Don't get me wrong, I haven't always been totally lazy; I was also active as a dancer growing up and now I "enjoy" running. But when given the choice between playing outside and keeping cozy on the couch, I usually go with couch. One thing I'm definitely not lazy about though? Making an appointment to donate blood. Call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or visit www.givelife.org to make a blood or platelet donation today!

For more information about the "Sit Back, Relax, and Donate" promotion and for official contest rules, visit nwblood.redcross.org.

Photo: The La-Z-Boy Carlyle recliner-- la-z-boy.com

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

Welcome to the Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up, in which we consolidate the international Red Cross and Red Crescent news into one list of bite-sized links for you...

[The place names link to maps so that you can get a quick idea of the region.]

HAITI: Haitian Red Crossers evacuate the sick and wounded from shanty towns in Port-au-Prince. Under the neutrality and impartiality of the Red Cross emblem, they are even able to help in gang territory where many others dare not venture.

INDONESIA: Mangrove trees act as natural wave breakers. That's why hundreds of Indonesian Red Volunteers - together with World Ocean Conference delegates - planted 2,000 of them along Mokupa Beach.

BURUNDI and TANZANIA: More than 60 albino people have been killed because of a superstition that their body parts bring good luck. Authorities in both countries have offered protection for albino people, opening shelters that the Red Cross is supporting. 

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO: New outbreaks in armed hostilities lead the ICRC to distribute food and other aid to 11,000 vulnerable people.

PAKISTAN: Water, electricity and communications are still scarce in Swat. Among their many duties, ICRC and Pakistan Red Crescent Society workers are restoring family links, running field hospitals, co-running and/or supporting camps for 43,000  displaced people and preparing for the monsoon.

ZIMBABWE: As food shortages affect prisons, the ICRC has begun distributing food to 6,300 detainees.

GLOSSARY:
ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

A Cappella Thunderstorm

Close your eyes and listen to the first two minutes of this video. Amazing how much it sounds like a real thunderstorm, huh?

I'd say it's a sound we don't hear too often in the Northwest, but we just had a pretty intense one last week! I still have downed branches on my sidewalk to prove it.

Just a reminder: you can find out how to prepare for the next thunderstorm at OregonRedCross.org/thunderstorms.

(Hat tip to Blogtown for finding the video.)

Wild Weather Caught On Tape!

Okay they were probably caught on digital memory sticks rather than tape, and a volcano isn't technically weather... but it's still a good headline, right?

Check out these two incredible videos:

A Tornado touching down in Wyoming. 

(You can find tornado tips at OregonRedCross.org/tornadoes.)

A volcanic eruption in Columbia. 

(And volcano preparedness tips at OregonRedCross.org/volcanoes.)