1

2

Were you aware that a child is abducted every 40 seconds in this country? Moreover, did you know that over 40% of these chil-dren are African American? If not, you are not alone because few people are aware of this epidemic. The truth is that African American children receive limited me-dia coverage when they go missing. Sadly, without this exposure it is less likely that they will be safely found.

The staff at Peas In Their Pods works diligently to spread awareness about this issue by alerting media outlets as needed when African American children are missing or abducted. Our mission is to make communities aware of the plight of these children, and to make them a national priority. It is our responsibility to ensure the safety of our children. If you suspect any kind of improper behavior report to the proper authorities immediately. The additional resources that this magazine provide also help in bringing awareness to issues that families and individuals are faced with daily, some not personally, but close enough to know someone who may.

It still takes a village…!!!

Sincerely, Denise Bethune, Editor-In-Chief Whitesboro, New Jersey www.peasintheirpods.com hfmbc@hotmail.com

Editor’s Message

3

4

This past Monday should have been a day filled with joy for young mom, Vennetta Benjamin.year-old mother was to have taken her 3-month-visit. However, instead of experiencing this exciting milestone, Venetta grieves because a week ago her estranged ex, Sham-sid-Din Abdur-Raheem, abducted the baby and claimed to have thrown the infant off of a bridge into the icy water of the Raritan river.

By now, the world has heard about the disturbing facts regarding this case.Vennetta for an exclusive interview this week to hear her perspective.ing at times. Clearly fatigued, Venetta candidly talked about the day that forever changed her life.in route to get a temporary restraining order when she received the call from her sister to go back home. She describes the scene in the car as she spoke with the police.

“He’s gonna kill her! You gotta find her..you gotta’ find her!” she screamed through the phone.Raheem had previously threatened Zara, she replied softly

“Well…yeah he made threats to me. [That’s] the reason why I was getting [a restraining order]. I [told] my sister..he’s around here. I know he’s up here. Things like that happened before where we got into it and he would show up at my house. And when I leave out by myself he would come out of nowhere.”

“When asked how she is able to find the resiliency to face each day, Venetta replied “I don’t know…I’ve always been like thisbeen through a lot. I’m broke but I’m still alive. I can’t sit up here sulk and breakdown about it then I don’t find her.I never find her.”

Despite the violent crime that Abdur-Raheem has been charged with to, Venetta stressed that she is not interested in dwelling onthis case.

I’m not focused on prosecuting Shamsid-Din or anybody else who was an accomplice to him. I just want my daughter to be found. I’m not worried about whether or not someone’s gonna pay for this. I don’t have vengeance in my heart.mistakes. In the bible.. like(sic)..people have to forgive people. As far as you do something to repent, that’ll be something

Although Venetta prefers not to focus on what officials did wrong on that day, many do not share her sentiments.lines are now under consideration and would lift some of the current restrictions on issuing an alert when a parent abducts aGeneral’s Office said today. Although Venetta properly reported the abduction, the State Police never issued an Amber Alert untnearly four hours after the abduction.

Zara MalaniZara MalaniZara MalaniZara Malani----Lin AbdurLin AbdurLin AbdurLin Abdur----Raheem Raheem Raheem Raheem

5

This past Monday should have been a day filled with joy for young mom, Vennetta Benjamin. It was the day that the 23--old daughter, Zara Malani-Lin Abdur-Raheem, to the doctor for a well baby

However, instead of experiencing this exciting milestone, Venetta grieves because a week ago her estranged ex, Sham-Raheem, abducted the baby and claimed to have thrown the infant off of a bridge into the icy water of the

By now, the world has heard about the disturbing facts regarding this case. However, I had the opportunity to speak with Vennetta for an exclusive interview this week to hear her perspective. The conversation was quite moving, but also surpris-

Clearly fatigued, Venetta candidly talked about the day that forever changed her life. She shared that she was in route to get a temporary restraining order when she received the call from her sister to go back home. She describes the

You gotta find her..you gotta’ find her!” she screamed through the phone. When I asked her if Abdur-Raheem had previously threatened Zara, she replied softly

[That’s] the reason why I was getting [a restraining order]. I [told] my sister..he’s Things like that happened before where we got into it and he would show up at my

And when I leave out by myself he would come out of nowhere.”

“When asked how she is able to find the resiliency to face each day, Venetta replied “I don’t know…I’ve always been like this. I’m 23 years old, and I’ve I can’t sit up here sulk and breakdown about it then I don’t find her. That’s going to eat me up more if

Raheem has been charged with to, Venetta stressed that she is not interested in dwelling on the legal aspects of

or anybody else who was an accomplice to him. I just want my daughter to be found. I’m not worried I don’t have vengeance in my heart. People make mistakes. People do bad things and they make

mistakes. In the bible.. like(sic)..people have to forgive people. As far as you do something to repent, that’ll be something good.”

Although Venetta prefers not to focus on what officials did wrong on that day, many do not share her sentiments. New statewide Amber Alert guide-lines are now under consideration and would lift some of the current restrictions on issuing an alert when a parent abducts a child, the state Attorney

Although Venetta properly reported the abduction, the State Police never issued an Amber Alert until around 8 p.m.,

Raheem Raheem Raheem Raheem ---- Missing February 16, 2010Missing February 16, 2010Missing February 16, 2010Missing February 16, 2010

6

As Venetta stressed to listeners during the radio show “I never thought that my life would be this way, but this is what is hhurts so, so much. It could be anybody’s child. Look at me! I would have never thought that this could have happened to me.

The reality is that just under 45% of all children reported missing are African Americanwhen all criteria are met. This is a fact that 12-year-old Jameshia Conner’s family know all too well.winter when her body was in an alley in Chicago. Sadly, reports indicate that she had been alive the day prior to her murder.

Hopefully the guidelines will change and there will be a more unified and systematic way of issuing such needed alerts.learn what key things that they should do if their child goes missing. Knowing these steps can possibly change an outcome:

When you call law enforcement, provide your child's name, date of birth, height, weight, and any other unique identifiers sucbraces. Tell them when you noticed that your child was missing and what clothing he or she was wearing.

ο Request that your child's name and identifying information be immediately entered into the National Crime Information Center Person File.

ο After you have reported your child missing to law enforcement, call the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children on ophone number, 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678). If your computer is equipped with a microphone and speakers you may talk to one oHotline operators via the Internet.

Although it is likely that Amber Alerts will be handled differently as a result of baby Zara’s abduction, this is of no solacmation has recently surfaced, and the Attorney General said in a press conference that “the end of the story is going to be a very, very tragic one”“We’ve received some corroboration,” without providing details. We can only pray that baby Zara will be found and reunitedher.

Gaetane F. Borders, MA,ABD President, Peas In Their Pods

Visit the website for Zara http://hope4zaramalanilin.webs.com/

7

As Venetta stressed to listeners during the radio show “I never thought that my life would be this way, but this is what is happening to me…and it Look at me! I would have never thought that this could have happened to me. But it did!”

African American. Far too frequently, they fail to receive the Amber Alert even old Jameshia Conner’s family know all too well. She had been missing for two weeks this past

Sadly, reports indicate that she had been alive the day prior to her murder.

Hopefully the guidelines will change and there will be a more unified and systematic way of issuing such needed alerts. In addition, I urge parents to learn what key things that they should do if their child goes missing. Knowing these steps can possibly change an outcome:

When you call law enforcement, provide your child's name, date of birth, height, weight, and any other unique identifiers such as eyeglasses and braces. Tell them when you noticed that your child was missing and what clothing he or she was wearing.

Request that your child's name and identifying information be immediately entered into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) Missing

After you have reported your child missing to law enforcement, call the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children on our toll-free tele-5678). If your computer is equipped with a microphone and speakers you may talk to one of our

Although it is likely that Amber Alerts will be handled differently as a result of baby Zara’s abduction, this is of no solace to her mother. New infor-said in a press conference that “the end of the story is going to be a very, very tragic one” and

We can only pray that baby Zara will be found and reunited with those that love

8

9

March Contributors

Ron Walker Coalition of Schools Educating Boys of Color

(COSEBOC)

Gaetane Borders Parenting Corner

Matthew Steven Raising Him Alone

Sharon Fox

Southern Hospitality

Patti Fitzgerald Safety Ever After Inc.

Patti Holmes Monthly Treats

10

Ron Walker is Executive Director and one of the founding members of the Coalition of Schools Educating Boys of Color (COSEBOC). Mr. Walker is the former Associate Director of ATLAS Communities, a comprehensive school reform organization with over 100 schools across the country in urban, suburban, and rural school districts. Mr. Walker shared responsibility with the Director for leadership and management of ATLAS activities and staff. Mr. Walker oversaw delivery of services to selected districts and worked in tandem with the Direin outreach, marketing, and related fund raising and development efforts.strengthen ATLAS’ organizational capacity and had primary responsibility for the development and management of the annual Principals Institute and related leadership activities.

The Coalition of Schools Educating Boys of Color (COSEBOC) promotes the recolor. We are a networked learning community of educators, researchers, policyquality professional development so they can realize this vision of making success an attainable goal for every male student COSEBOC intends to develop a collaborative network of schools that nurture success in boys of color.committed to high standards, exemplary instruction, and the building of coalitions within and outside the community. The intended long-term outcome of this coalition will be boys of color who are fully equipped to achieve academically, socially ally. These schools will serve as models for the educational community, enabling educators to replicate the promising practicesschools. COSEBOC will contribute to the body of research on achievement in Black and Latino boys. The long-term goals of COSEBOC are: Define high standards for schools successfully educating boys of color Convene member schools for sharing of promising practices and communityEstablish network of highly respected educators, researchers, policy-makers, and advocates focused on educating boys of colorModel promising practices and provide professional development for educators to replicate them widelySupport research and policy development related to pertinent issues concerning the education of males of colorConduct advocacy with policy makers and elected officials in keeping with the needs of boys of color and COSEBOC’s adopted stEstablish and promote a career pathway for boys of color to become educatorsRaise the visibility of COSEBOC research, the defined needs of boys, and successes in successfully addressing those needs. Strategic alliances and partnerships are a key strategy for implementing all of these goals.able research, conferences, pre-service and in-service education of teachers and school leaders.munity-building organizations will support the academic and social development of students served. For Additional Information: http://www.coseboc.org/index.htm

11

Ron Walker is Executive Director and one of the founding members of the Coalition of Schools Educating Boys of Color (COSEBOC). Mr. Walker is the former Associate Director of ATLAS Communities, a comprehensive school reform organization with over 100 schools across the country in urban, suburban, and rural school districts.

Mr. Walker shared responsibility with the Director for leadership and management Mr. Walker oversaw delivery of services to selected districts and worked in tandem with the Director

in outreach, marketing, and related fund raising and development efforts. He identified and negotiated strategic alliances that strengthen ATLAS’ organizational capacity and had primary responsibility for the development and management of the annual

The Coalition of Schools Educating Boys of Color (COSEBOC) promotes the re-imagining of the schooling experience for boys and young men of color. We are a networked learning community of educators, researchers, policy-makers and caring adults. We support school leaders with high quality professional development so they can realize this vision of making success an attainable goal for every male student of color COSEBOC intends to develop a collaborative network of schools that nurture success in boys of color. Working with these schools, COSEBOC is committed to high standards, exemplary instruction, and the building of coalitions within and outside the community.

term outcome of this coalition will be boys of color who are fully equipped to achieve academically, socially and emotion-These schools will serve as models for the educational community, enabling educators to replicate the promising practices modeled in these

COSEBOC will contribute to the body of research on achievement in Black and Latino boys.

Convene member schools for sharing of promising practices and community-building makers, and advocates focused on educating boys of color

Model promising practices and provide professional development for educators to replicate them widely Support research and policy development related to pertinent issues concerning the education of males of color Conduct advocacy with policy makers and elected officials in keeping with the needs of boys of color and COSEBOC’s adopted standards Establish and promote a career pathway for boys of color to become educators Raise the visibility of COSEBOC research, the defined needs of boys, and successes in successfully addressing those needs.

Strategic alliances and partnerships are a key strategy for implementing all of these goals. Partnerships with institutions of higher education will en-service education of teachers and school leaders. Partnerships with education development and com-

building organizations will support the academic and social development of students served.

Email: info@coseboc.org Phone: 781-775-9461 Fax: 781-593-8961

12

Case Type: Missing DOB: Dec 4, 1986 Sex: Female Missing Date: Mar 13, 2007 Missing City: BERKLEY Missing State : MO Missing Country: United States Race: Black Age Now: 23 Height: 5'4" (163 cm) Weight: 165 lbs (75 kg) Hair Color: Brown Eye Color: Hazel Circumstances: Kelly was last seen leaving a friend's home in Berkley, Missouri, on March 13, 2007, but she resides in Saint Louis, Missouri. She has a tattoo of brown eyes and a flower on her left shoulder and a o of a half moon behind her left ear.

KELLY ALLEN

13

Case Type: Missing DOB: Feb 24, 1981 Sex: Male Missing Date: Apr 11, 2001 Race: White Age Now: 28 Height: 5'10" (178 cm) Weight: 140 lbs (64 kg) Missing City: SKIDMORE Missing State : MO Missing Country: United States Hair Color: Blonde Eye Color: Blue Case Number: NCMA1078495 Circumstances: Branson was last seen on April 11, 2001. He has a scar on his upper right check and on his left knee.

BRANSON PERRY

14

Gaétane is President of Peas In Their Pods, and also a certified School Psychologist who works closely with the inner- city youth and their parents. She is an advocate of children’s rights and strives to help parent achieve healthy, harmonious, and emotionally stable environments for their children. She is a sought after media consultant, and is often featured in print, radio, and television. Happy Exceptional Children’s Week everyone! This week, many school systems around the country are spreading awareness as a means of educating the public about children with disabilities, as well as to garner support for spe-

cial education. Much of the work that I do involves identifying reasons for why children may not be performing as well as mexpected. I always feel privileged to help families unlock underlying issues. However, for many parents, coming to terms wifact that their child has a disability is very difficult. On learning that their child may have a disability, many often parents react in similar ways. One of the first reactions is thappening to me, to my child, to our family.” Anger, is another emotion that I’ve witnessed. Sometimes it is directed at methat their child may have an underlying condition. I believe that much of this is fueled by fear. Fear of the unknown…like wthey learn? Are they normal? What quality of life will my child have? Is there something wrong with me? One of the childhood diagnoses that has been widely talked about is autism. It is defined by the Autism Society Of America (opmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life, and is the result of a neurological disordertioning of the brain, impacting development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. Both children and adcally show difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities.what causes autism. We have heard the debate played out in the news… Is autism genetic….or the result of medical interventiResearchers continue to attempt to figure this out. However, reportedly the rate is 1 in 110 births, and is (reportedly) thetal disability. In honor of Exceptional Children’s Week, I would like to remind parents that a disability does not have to be limiting. Did ple…many who you might idolize…are very famous and successful? For example, Runner and Kill Bill was reportedly diagnosed as a child as being ”borderline autistic.” Also, Satoshi Tajiri, who created of PokeMon, is also reautistic. Early intervention is key! So if you if you suspect that your child’s development is not progressing as expected, or if you skills….please seek the guidance of a professional. Oftentimes you will be reassured that nothing is out of the norm. Howevof parents, School Psychologists…Pediatricians…and Developmental Specialists may provide the needed recommendations that coulable difference. For more information about autism, please visit the Autism Society!

PARENTING CORNER

15

Gaétane is President of Peas In Their Pods, and also a certified School Psychologist who works closely with city youth and their parents. She is an advocate of children’s rights and strives to help parent

achieve healthy, harmonious, and emotionally stable environments for their children. She is a sought after media consultant, and is often featured in print, radio, and television.

Happy Exceptional Children’s Week everyone! This week, many school systems around the country are spreading awareness as a means of educating the public about children with disabilities, as well as to garner support for spe-

cial education. Much of the work that I do involves identifying reasons for why children may not be performing as well as might be expected. I always feel privileged to help families unlock underlying issues. However, for many parents, coming to terms with the

On learning that their child may have a disability, many often parents react in similar ways. One of the first reactions is that of denial -- "This cannot be happening to me, to my child, to our family.” Anger, is another emotion that I’ve witnessed. Sometimes it is directed at me…the one who first indicates that their child may have an underlying condition. I believe that much of this is fueled by fear. Fear of the unknown…like will my child be okay? Can

What quality of life will my child have? Is there something wrong with me?

One of the childhood diagnoses that has been widely talked about is autism. It is defined by the Autism Society Of America (ASA) as: "a complex devel-opmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life, and is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal func-tioning of the brain, impacting development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. Both children and adults with autism typi-

verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities. There is a lot of debate regarding what causes autism. We have heard the debate played out in the news… Is autism genetic….or the result of medical intervention or the environment? Researchers continue to attempt to figure this out. However, reportedly the rate is 1 in 110 births, and is (reportedly) the fastest growing developmen-

In honor of Exceptional Children’s Week, I would like to remind parents that a disability does not have to be limiting. Did you know that many peo-ple…many who you might idolize…are very famous and successful? For example, Daryl Hannah, the actress best known for her roles in Splash, Blade

was reportedly diagnosed as a child as being ”borderline autistic.” Also, Satoshi Tajiri, who created of PokeMon, is also reportedly

Early intervention is key! So if you if you suspect that your child’s development is not progressing as expected, or if you are seeing a regression in skills….please seek the guidance of a professional. Oftentimes you will be reassured that nothing is out of the norm. However, for a smaller percentage of parents, School Psychologists…Pediatricians…and Developmental Specialists may provide the needed recommendations that could make a consider-

PARENTING CORNER

16

CHERIE NICOLE BARNES Age Progression (bottom)

Case Type: Non Family Abduction DOB: Jul 30, 1984 Sex: Female Missing Date: Jan 7, 1987 Missing City: SAINT LOUIS Missing State : MO Missing Country: United States Race: Biracial Age Now: 25 Height: 4'0" (122 cm) Weight: 80 lbs (36 kg) Hair Color: Brown Eye Color: Brown Case Number: NCMC791396 Circumstances: Cherie's photo is shown a ge-progressed to 20 years. She was last known to be with her mother, who was eventually found deceased. She is Biracial and is considered to be Black and White.

17

CHRISTIAN FERGUSON Age Progression (bottom)

Case Type: Non Family Abduction DOB: Oct 9, 1993 Sex: Male Missing Date: Jun 11, 2003 Race: Black Age Now: 16 Height: 4'0" (122 cm) Weight: 75 lbs (34 kg) Hair Color: Black Eye Color: Brown Missing City: SAINT LOUIS Missing State : MO Missing Country: United States Case Number: NCMC964942 Circumstances: Both of the photos shown are of the child. Christian was age-progressed to 13 years. He was in a relative's vehicle at approxi-mately 6:30 a.m. on June 11, 2003 when it was stolen. The vehicle has since been recovered but the child's whereabouts remain unknown. The child has a medical condition which requires daily medication that is not with him. He was last seen wearing only a diaper and was wrapped in a multicolored blanket.

18

What is the Raising him Alone Campaign - A learning community designed toboys. We offer an interactive website, a parent workbook focusing on practical parenting strategies, Who is the Raising Him Alone Campaign - The Campaign was formed by two Organizations headed by David Miller (The Urban Leadership In-stitute), and Matthew Stevens (RASP Educational Consultants). These organizations are located in Baltimore MD, and Newark, NJ respectively. Both organizations are experts in urban family cialize in working with African American male children. How is Raising Alone funded - A grant provided by the Open Society Instituter's Campaign For Black Male Achievement, was awarded to initiate the project. The goal is to improving the performance of Black boys by concentrating on the needs and concerns of the parents (pmothers, due to the fact that a majority of the Black youth in America are residing homes headed by women. What has Raising Him One Campaign accomplished - Founded in January 2009institutions of higher learning. These forums were followed by smaller community based activities hosted in schools, churches anTo date the RHA Campaign has conducted forums in 20 cities and serviced approximately 5000 families. What's Next - The RHA Campaign looks forward to expanding the FACE BOOK Community to 10,000 members, starting learning communities in four major cities 9Chicago, Philadelphia, Washington DC and Brooklyn New York.MD. How can a City, church or school district start a RHA Learning Community -www.raisinghimalone.com or joining us on FACEBOOK (Single Mothers Raising Boys Group.

19

A learning community designed to increase access to information and resources for single mothers raising

a parent workbook focusing on practical parenting strategies, and a growing FACE BOOK presence.

The Campaign was formed by two Organizations headed by David Miller (The Urban Leadership In-

These organizations are located in Baltimore MD, and Newark, NJ respectively. Both organizations are experts in urban family development and spe-

A grant provided by the Open Society Instituter's Campaign For Black Male Achievement, was awarded to initiate The goal is to improving the performance of Black boys by concentrating on the needs and concerns of the parents (particularly single

mothers, due to the fact that a majority of the Black youth in America are residing homes headed by women.

Founded in January 2009 it hosted two "Kick Off" forums in the host cities at two major of higher learning. These forums were followed by smaller community based activities hosted in schools, churches and block associations.

To date the RHA Campaign has conducted forums in 20 cities and serviced approximately 5000 families.

The RHA Campaign looks forward to expanding the FACE BOOK Community to 10,000 members, starting learning communities in four major cities 9Chicago, Philadelphia, Washington DC and Brooklyn New York. This is in addition to the communities in Newark and Baltimore

- Contact us at info@raisinghimalone.com, visit our website at or joining us on FACEBOOK (Single Mothers Raising Boys Group.

20

BRANDON DANTE RAPHELLE RALLS

Age Progression (bottom)

Case Type: Lost, Injured, Missing DOB: Mar 25, 1985 Sex: Male Missing Date: Nov 5, 2001 Race: Black Age Now: 24 Height: 5'6" (168 cm) Weight: 130 lbs (59 kg) Hair Color: Brown Eye Color: Brown Missing City: KANSAS CITY Missing State : MO Missing Country: United States Case Number: NCMC928178 Circumstances: Brandon's photo is shown age-progressed to 18 years. He has three gold teeth in the upper front part of his mouth. Brandon's nick-name is "Little B."

21

CHARLES ARLIN LEON HENDERSON Age Progression

Case Type: Non Family Abduction DOB: Mar 16, 1980 Sex: Male Missing Date: Jul 25, 1991 Race: White Age Now: 29 Height: 4'5" (135 cm) Weight: 75 lbs (34 kg) Hair Color: Blonde Eye Color: Blue Missing City: MOSCOW MILLS Missing State : MO Missing Country: United States Case Number: NCMC756985 Circumstances: Charles' photo is shown age-progressed to 27 years. He was last seen at about 5 p.m. as he was riding his bike near home. He is considered at risk since he is missing under suspicious circumstances. He was last seen wearing a camouflage T-shirt, camouflage pants, gray socks and black tennis shoes. He was riding a white and yellow bike. He was last known to have a crew cut.

22

Greetings friends! Well March is here and you know what that means. It's time for SPRING!! I think this is my favorite time of year. Things are all fresh and new. We've survived all the winter weather, the holidays, the food, and the family and friend gatherings. Now it's time to start fresh again. Let's use this time to meditate on positive things, set goals for ourselves, and make a change in our lives for the better. Keep your hearts open so that God can use you in a tre-mendous way this year. There are many people watching you, some good and some bad. Some hungry for love, some waiting to see you fall. Just remember to keep your eyes on the Lord and allow Him to direct your paths. If each one of us touches one person's life this year in a miraculous way, this will be a year to remember for so many people! Don't limit your love to ONE...but make it your business to do something really spectacular for at least one. It's Spring!! Refresh, renew, rejoice!!

SHRIMP & AVOCADO SALAD 24 large prawns/shrimp 2 avocados, sliced 2 tablespoons chopped chives 6 leaves of Boston or butter lettuce

Dressing 1 cup of mayonnaise or salad dressing (Miracle Whip or Hellman’s) 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes 1 clove of minced garlic Peel and devein shrimp, leaving on tail shell. Cook. Cool and refrigerate. Make Dressing by mixing all of the ingredients together. To serve, place one leaf of lettuce on each plate. Place the shrimp on plate and place one slice of avocado between each shrimp. Drizzle with dressing and sprin-kle with chopped chives.

"Southern Hospitality" www.goodcookin4u2.web.com

23

SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY - Sharon Fox

BUTTERED RUM POUND CAKES 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature 1 cup granulated sugar 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 vanilla bean 1-1/2 cups flour 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup buttermilk, room temperature Glaze 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/4 cup butter 1-1/2 tablespoons water pinch of salt 2 tablespoons dark rum Preheat oven to 350 F. Butter and flour muffin tin. Cream butter in bowl of mixer. Slowly add sugar and beat for two minutes. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition of egg. Add vanilla extract. Split vanilla bean and scrape inside into batter. Reserve vanilla bean pod. Beat for approximately two more minutes, until batter is fluffy and creamy. Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. At low speed, add flour mixture alternately with buttermilk, ending with flour mixture. Pour batter into prepared pan, and bake for 30 - 35 minutes, or until golden and cake tester comes out clean. Remove pan to cooling rack set over baking sheet for 5 minutes. Remove cakes from pan to cooling rack. Poke several holes in each cake with thin skewer/ cake tester. Pour glaze slowly over cakes until cakes absorb glaze and glaze is used up. Serve when completely cooled.

24

Harvard University

Harvard University announced over the week-end that from now on undergraduate students from low-income families will pay no tui-tion. In making the announcement, Harvard's president Lawrence H. Summers said, "When only ten percent of the students in elite higher education come from families in the lower half of the income distribution, we are not do-ing enough.

We are not doing enough in bringing elite higher education to the lower half of the in-come distribution." If you know of a family earning less than $60,000 a year with an honor student graduat-ing from high school soon, Harvard Univer-sity wants to pay the tuition.

The prestigious university recently announced that from now on undergraduate students from low-income families can go to Harvard for free... no tuition and no student loans! To find out more about Harvard offering free tuition for families making less than $60,000 a year, visit Harvard's financial aid website at: http://www.fao.fas.harvard.edu/ or call the school's financial aid office at (617) 495-1581.

25

Rilya Alert Criteria • The abduction is of a child age 17 years or

younger • The parent must have contacted law enforce-

ment to report child missing. • A RILYA Alert may also be issued if the child is

classified as a runaway by the police. If the parent has reported missing child and has convincing evidence that child does not have a history of running away, an alert will be initiated within the 1st hour. We recognize that at times, not all information is readily available (ie. license plate numbers, name of abductor, or witness to abduction. In such cases, the available information will be reviewed and verified prior to RILYA Alert.

• The law-enforcement agency believes the child is in imminent danger

of serious bodily injury or death. • All children of color meeting the criteria for the Amber Alert will also

receive the RILYA Alert If these criteria are met, alert information is assembled for public distribution. This information may include de-scriptions and pictures of the missing child, the suspected abductor, and a suspected vehicle along with any other information available and valuable to identifying the child and suspect.

*The staff at Peas In Their Pods respectfully requests that once

a child is found that any organization posting information remove their pictures from their sites.

http://www.peasintheirpods.com (516) 338-6873/ (515) 554-5096

hfmbc@hotmail.com

26

GINA DAWN BROOKS Age Progression (bottom)

Case Type: Non Family Abduction DOB: Nov 28, 1975 Sex: Female

Missing Date: Aug 5, 1989 Race: White Age Now: 34

Height: 5'0" (152 cm) Weight: 108 lbs (49 kg) Hair Color: Blonde Eye Color: Green Missing City: FREDERICKTOWN

Missing State : MO Missing Country: United States

Case Number: NCMC727561

Circumstances: Gina's photo is shown age-progressed to 33 years. She was last seen riding a bicycle at about 10:00 p.m. The bike was later found abandoned on High Street. A light blue, gray, or green station wagon was seen at the same time as a witness heard a scream in the

neighborhood and the sound of a car driving off. Gina has small white scars on her left shin.

27

SHEMIKA KEYANTA COSEY

Case Type: Endangered

DOB: Oct 1, 1992 Sex: Female Missing Date: Dec 30, 2008 Race: Black Age Now: 17

Height: 5'5" (165 cm) Weight: 160 lbs (73 kg) Hair Color: Black Eye Color: Brown

Missing City: BERKELEY Missing State : MO Missing Country: United States

Case Number: NCMC1113314

Circumstances: Shemika is believed to be in the local area. Her ears are

pierced. Shemika may go by the nickname Mika.

28

Keeping Our Kids Safe… A Guideline for Children at Every AgeBy Pattie Fitzgerald, Safely Ever After, Inc

Your kids know all about personal safety because you’ve had that conversation with them way back when they first started schoSorry, parents… but this is one conversation that you absolutely must have with your children more than once in order for it In fact, personal safety should be a familiar topic of discussion that you start when your kids are young and continue as theand even teens. Why? Reason #1: Because kids need to hear this stuff more than once to let it really sink in. Like anything else, kids learn by repetition.good strong reminders about appropriate behavior in others as they mature, gain more independence, and interact with other adquently on their own without being under our watchful eye. Reason #2: Because statistically, kids between the ages of 9 and 12 years old are the most vulnerable when it comes to sexual abuse and in the world on their own for the first time, whether it’s at the mall, at a sports activity, or even riding bikes around thethem with good prevention education and support, letting them know that we’re still here for them no matter what. Think about it. Our younger children get lots of attention from their caregivers. We’re involved in their daily activities more Our little ones are usually supervised more closely than the older kids. And then… they get a little older, and parents stepabout the world around them and that the kids know all about this stuff by now. A Big Mistake Time and time again parents mistakenly think that once their children reach the age of 10 or 11, that they know what is “safereach middle school, parents are ready to take a “breather”, confident that those ‘tweens are full of street smarts and can t The Opposite is True Did you know that our ‘tweens are more easily tricked and manipulated by a molester’s grooming techniques? That’s rightto disclose about sexual abuse or even talk about “red flag feelings” they may have about another person. They’re afraid if next door neighbor’s weird touch, that they won’t be believed or that somehow they are responsible in some way for that otherthings quiet, for fear that you’ll take away some of their hard-earned freedom and start restricting their daily activities. Anit.

Keep The Dialog Going Start the “safety talk” early, and keep it going as they grow. Introduce concepts such as can always talk to you about someone’s inappropriate behavior. And most importantly, let them know that comfortable or improper manner.

29

Keeping Our Kids Safe… A Guideline for Children at Every Age By Pattie Fitzgerald, Safely Ever After, Inc

Your kids know all about personal safety because you’ve had that conversation with them way back when they first started school, right? Sorry, parents… but this is one conversation that you absolutely must have with your children more than once in order for it to mean anything. In fact, personal safety should be a familiar topic of discussion that you start when your kids are young and continue as they become ‘tweens

Because kids need to hear this stuff more than once to let it really sink in. Like anything else, kids learn by repetition. They especially need good strong reminders about appropriate behavior in others as they mature, gain more independence, and interact with other adults more fre-

Because statistically, kids between the ages of 9 and 12 years old are the most vulnerable when it comes to sexual abuse and abduction. That’s when they’re often out in the world on their own for the first time, whether it’s at the mall, at a sports activity, or even riding bikes around the neighborhood. And we owe it to them… to arm them with good prevention education and support, letting them know that we’re still here for them no matter what.

Our younger children get lots of attention from their caregivers. We’re involved in their daily activities more -- whether it’s school, after school activities, playdates, etc. Our little ones are usually supervised more closely than the older kids. And then… they get a little older, and parents step back, assuming they’ve educated the kids

Time and time again parents mistakenly think that once their children reach the age of 10 or 11, that they know what is “safe or unsafe”. All too often, once children reach middle school, parents are ready to take a “breather”, confident that those ‘tweens are full of street smarts and can take care of themselves.

Did you know that our ‘tweens are more easily tricked and manipulated by a molester’s grooming techniques? That’s right. Kids in the ‘tween ages are also less likely to disclose about sexual abuse or even talk about “red flag feelings” they may have about another person. They’re afraid if they tell you about the soccer coach or the next door neighbor’s weird touch, that they won’t be believed or that somehow they are responsible in some way for that other person’s harmful acts. They also keep

earned freedom and start restricting their daily activities. And molesters know this… in fact they count on

Start the “safety talk” early, and keep it going as they grow. Introduce concepts such as good touch/bad touch/confusing touch and let your kids know that they can always talk to you about someone’s inappropriate behavior. And most importantly, let them know that it is never their fault if someone touches them in any un-

30

Safety Guideline 3-5 years old

“Boss of My Body” Physical ‘ownership’ of your body

I’m the Boss of my Body. Correct names for body parts Difference between “safe” and “unsafe” touches. Understanding the concept of “No-Go-Tell”

You have the right to sayNO to any uncomfortable touches, no matter who it is, even to an adult or older kid It’s not your fault if someone tries to touch a private part of your body. You have the right to express or receive physical affection on the your terms

The “Helping” Rule You should not help anyone who asks you to find a lost pet, give them direc-tions, or carry packages to their home or car without Mom/Dad/caretaker pre-sent Safe Grownups Don’t Ask Kids for Help when you’re by yourself – they’re supposed to ask OTHER grownups

Before assisting anyone, check first with the adult in charge of your safety. If you can’t check first, the answer is NO. Understand the difference between helping with chores in the home vs. helping some-one out in the world when you’re on your own You should not enter someone’s home to help them unless your parents say it’s OK

Candy, Gifts, Treats Say no to anyone who wants to give you candy, gifts, or treats unless your parent is with you or says it okay first

It’s not okay for someone to offer you a treat in ex-change for keeping a secret

Trusting Instinct… their inner voice a.k.a. “the uh-oh feeling”

Listen to your inner voice or that feel-ing you get in your tummy when some-thing feels wrong or “yucky” Tell mom or dad about any uh-oh feeling you have, no matter when it happens.

Get away quickly from anyone who makes you feel weird, yucky, or uncomfortable. You don’t have to be polite to anyone who gives you that “uh-

Secrets No secrets from Mom or Dad Safe grownups don’t tell kids to keep secrets from their parents. There is a difference between a “secret” and a “surprise”

You won’t get in trouble for telling your parents about any kind of secret that an adult has told you to keep. Tell Mom or Dad right away, don’t hold on to a “yucky” secret, especially one about your body.Safe adults don’t tell kids to keep secrets from their parents

Safely Ever After Inc… Age Appropriate Safety Guidelines

31

6-10 years old 11 years old and older

You have the right to say NO to any uncomfortable touches, no matter who it is, even to an adult or older kid

It’s not your fault if someone tries to touch a private part of your body. You have the right to express or receive physical affection on the your terms

It’s ok to say STOP to anyone’s touches, anywhere on your body Affection between adults and children does not in-clude touching or kissing private parts, undressing together, or sharing bodies in a “yucky” or uncom-fortable manner

Before assisting anyone, check first with the adult in charge of your safety. If you can’t check first, the answer is NO. Understand the difference between helping with chores in the home vs. helping some-one out in the world when you’re on your own

You should not enter someone’s home to help them unless your parents say it’s OK

Be wary of people who ask you for help when you’re alone or with your friends in public places. Employ the “check first” rule whenever possible. Do not be tricked by offers of money or gifts in ex-change for assistance

It’s not okay for someone to offer you a treat in ex-change for keeping a secret

Tell your parents about anyone who wants to give you an expensive gift or treat without their knowl-edge Bribing a child with the promise of a gift or treat is wrong, and may even be illegal. It’s not your fault, and it’s important to tell right away.

Get away quickly from anyone who makes you feel weird, yucky, or uncomfortable.

You don’t have to be polite to anyone who gives -oh” feeling

Pay attention to your own feelings, especially if someone tries to get you to do something you know is wrong or makes you feel badly. Your own inner alarm is your best safety system.

You won’t get in trouble for telling your parents about any kind of secret that an adult has told you to keep. Tell Mom or Dad right away, don’t hold on to a “yucky” secret, especially one about your body. Safe adults don’t tell kids to keep secrets from their

Tell your parents right away about any secret that involves your body or someone else’s It’s not your fault if someone touches you inappro-priately. You should never keep this kind of secret.

A Guideline for Parents Please check out the Safely Ever After Age-Appropriate Chart to see what kids should know about personal safety at every age.

32

Safety Guideline 3-5 years old

Out and about If lost, Freeze & Yell or ask a Mom with Kids for help Never go outside to the parking lot to look for your parents Know your address and your parents’ cell phone number

If lost, ask a mom with kids or the cash register per-son for help Do not wander around or leave the area to search for your parents. Do not enter restrooms alone or with someone you don’t knowDo not use shortcuts through alleys or play in unfa-miliar areas.

Check First Always ask your mom, dad, or caretaker before you go anywhere or take any-thing even from someone you know If you’re finished playing in one area and want to do something else, check first

You must have permission before getting into a car or entering someone’s home. Check first… even if it’s a neighbor or someone that you know. If you don’t have permission first, don’t do it. *For kids 9 years old & up, use a family code word

Tricky People Replace the stranger-danger concept with “tricky people” It’s not what someone looks like, it’s what they want you to do. Tricky people may ask kids to do “thumbs down” things.

A tricky person can be someone you know, don’t know, or know just a little bit. Be able to recognize a tricky person by their actions and behaviors… by what they say or want you to do

Getting help Always tell your mom or dad if you feel scared, uncomfortable, or have an “uh-oh” feeling about someone If you are afraid to tell your parents, tell a teacher

Tell your parents about anyone who’s made you feel yucky or touched you in an uncomfortable way. If you can’t tell your parents, tell a teacher. Keep telling a grownup until you get help.

Pattie Fitzgerald is the founder of Safely Ever After, Inc. and is recognized as a leading expert in the field of childhood sexual abuse prevention education. She is certified as a Child Safety Educator and Child Visitation Monitor, and has been working in the field of child advocacy for ovteacher, Pattie blends her expertise as an educator and, more importantly as a MOM, to teach parents and kids every where thestrategies WITHOUT using fear tactics. For more information visit: www.safelyeverafter.com

33

6-10 years old 11 years old and older If lost, ask a mom with kids or the cash register per-

Do not wander around or leave the area to search for your parents. Do not enter restrooms alone or with someone you don’t know Do not use shortcuts through alleys or play in unfa-

Don’t be tricked into getting into a car with someone you don’t know because they seem nice or offer you something enticing, like payment for doing work. If you want to change your plans, go somewhere else, or enter a car even with an adult you know, call and check in first with your parents to let them know. If you can’t check first, the answer is no.

You must have permission before getting into a car or entering someone’s home. Check first… even if it’s a neighbor or someone that you know. If you don’t have permission first, don’t do it.

*For kids 9 years old & up, use a family code word

Always let your parents know where you’re going, when you’ll be back. If you are changing plans, let your parents know first.

A tricky person can be someone you know, don’t know, or know just a little bit.

Be able to recognize a tricky person by their actions and behaviors… by what they say or want you to do

You don’t have to be polite to anyone or tries to trick you into doing something that feels bad Be alert for tricks that sound “too good to be true”

Tell your parents about anyone who’s made you feel yucky or touched you in an uncomfortable way. If you can’t tell your parents, tell a teacher.

Keep telling a grownup until you get help.

Tell a parent, a teacher, a guidance counselor or other trusted adult if you need help. If you’re not comfortable talking to a parent, con-sider other safe grownups who will help you, like a friend’s mom. Keep telling until you get help.

and is recognized as a leading expert in the field of childhood sexual abuse prevention education. She is certified as a Child Safety Educator and Child Visitation Monitor, and has been working in the field of child advocacy for over ten years. As a former preschool teacher, Pattie blends her expertise as an educator and, more importantly as a MOM, to teach parents and kids every where the most effective, up-to-date safety

34

Key Lime Bars Crust: 10 oz. animal crackers 6 Tablespoons packed brown sugar Pinch of table salt 8 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly Filling: 4 oz. cream cheese, room temperature 2 Tablespoon grated lime zest, minced Pinch table salt 2 can (14ox) sweetened condensed milk 2 large egg yolk 1 Cup Key lime juice ( Not used bottled juice) Preheat oven 325 Line pan with foil 10 x 9 Crust: In food processer, pulse animals crackers, pulsing until crmbs are evenly fine makes about 2 ½ cups of crumbs. Add brown sugar and salt and pulse 10-12 times. Drizzle butter over crumbs and pulse until crumbs are evenly moistened with butter. Press crumbs evenly and firmly into bottom of pan. Bake until golden brown, 18-10 minutes. Cool on rack while making filling. Filling: In a medium bowl, stir cream cheese, zest and salt until softened, creamy and thoroughly combines. Add sweeten condensed milk and incorpo-rate until no lumps remain mix in egg yolks. Add lime juice until incorpo-rated. Pour filling into crust and spread to corners and smooth surface with rubber spatula. Back 15 to 20 minutes until it is set and edges begin to pull away slightly from sides.

Monthly Tasty Treat - by Pat Holmes

35

ST. LOUIS

JANE DOE UNIDENTIFIED

Case Type: Unidentified DOB: Jan 1, 1972 Sex: Female

Missing Date: Feb 28, 1983 Race: Black Age Now: 38 Height: 4'10" (147 cm) Missing City: ST. LOUIS

Weight: 70 lbs (32 kg) Missing State : MO Hair Color: Unknown Missing Country: United States

Eye Color: Unknown

Case Number: NCMU400034

Circumstances: On February 28, 1983, the headless remains of an African American female were discovered by the St. Louis Police Department.

The body had no scars, deformities or irregularities.

There was no specific features that would give clues as to her identity. She was approximately between 8 and 11 years of age, so her estimated

year of birth would be 1972-75.

Her estimated height is 4'10" and her estimated weight is 70 lbs. Her eye and hair color couldn't be determined

36

Peas In Their Pods

Thank You..!