New Jack Rabbit City Ebook Wins Silver! Also, Literary Recipe to Self-Publish

 

(LITERARY RECIPE TO SELF-PUBLISH FOLLOWS BELOW OR SEE SEPTEMBER 2013 BLOG.)

EBOOK WINS SILVER MEDAL IN DAN POYNTER’S

2014 GLOBAL EBOOK AWARDS CONTEST

 NEW JACK RABBIT CITY: STARRING THE CHICAGO HARES

AUTHORS PUBLISH BOOK ABOUT TALL TALKING RABBITS.

From Valparaiso, Indiana (Gail Galvan) and Boise, Idaho (Mike Evanouski) publish their captivating magical wonderland book and win silver medal.

We all need to “get away” sometimes, travel to a fantasy, magical world with uplifting, beautiful scenery/comedy-relief backdrops. And while we’re there, enjoy the adventure of a lifetime as if we are right there with the wonderful characters created by the writers. That’s what you can expect when you read this book: a fun, inspirational, exciting adventurous literary trip.

PLOT: In an Idaho desert, magic artesian water enables rabbits to grow six-feet-tall. Analog digital frequency changes make them smart and able to talk!  Meet:   Mr. Mayor, a flashy dressed six-foot-tall rabbit, and all of the Chicago South-Sider hare gangsters:  Wrigley, Caponey, Dice, Fuzzy, Mugsey, Bronzey, Meigs, and Putz. Mr. Mayor tries to protect his town as the Chicago Hares come to town and want to steal the magic water, grow tall and return to rule over other hare gangsters back in Chicago.

More trouble ensues as a greedy cattle herder named Bossy Kincaid is also determined to get his grungy hands on the water and turn his cows into giants so he can enjoy more hefty profits.  Bad guys and bad deeds vs. good guys and good deeds in this story.

And what’s a book without a love story? You’ll meet Rush Buckingham, a young Chicago runaway who heads for New Jack Rabbit City.  She wants her mom and brother to follow so they can get out of the big city rat and rabbit race.  Wrigley, one of the South-Siders, is in love with Rush and Rush is in love with Wrigley, but she doesn’t want to admit it because she knows he’s trouble, always hanging around with his gang.

 See what happens, how it all turns out.

ENCHANTING GRAPHICS!

 ORIGINAL SONGS FOR STORY:

 http://www.newjackrabbitcity.podomatic.com

SEE TRAILER ON YOUTUBE:

 LINK: new jack rabbit city the trailer

 EXCERPT FROM THE BOOK

 Chapter Four: South-Siders’ Big Plans

“Dice, c’mon, put those stupid dice away and listen to me, will ya?” Caponey shouted over the boom box playing in the alleyway, some Bruce Springsteen song.

Dice shook again and yelled, “C’mon, snake eyes!” All he got was a four and a two. He was a true gambler at heart, never beating the odds, but never giving up either. Not at the racetrack, not in his late-night poker games, nor on the streets of Chicago for that matter. Dice, the only rabbit in the gang of hares, stuck out like a sore spot, looking more like a Dalmatian puppy with his white and black fur. He wasn’t supposed to get along with hares, but he sure did.

The South-Siders lived in the alleyways of Chicago and spent a lot of time picking pockets, selling stolen goods, and scamming gullible rabbits whenever they could. Oh, they had their big dreams, too, but most of them happened only at night when they finally fell asleep after another exhausting day of amateur gangsterism.

A few of them, like Meigs, Bronzey, Mugsey and Fuzzy, still kept hoping for some miracle sack of cash to fall from the sky, thinking that would solve all their problems. Maybe their gigs as Rappin’ Rabbits would really start hoppin’, and they’d be rich and famous once and for all. Oh they knew they should really call themselves, The Rappin’ Hares, but that just didn’t sound as good, so they stuck with Rabbits and hoped nobody would notice the difference.

Then there was Wrigley, who, of course, believed in his love for Rush. One sunny day, Caponey overheard Wrigley and Rush talking about how dreams really could come true. All they had to do was make it to New Jack Rabbit City, drink the magic water, sprout up like Jack in the Beanstalks, then come back and rule the Southside as six-foot-tall kings. Even humans would have to deal with Caponey Ritso and the South-Siders, once and for all! He couldn’t wait.

“Dice! Dice!” he yelled, getting the rabbit’s attention. Caponey offered him a free meal if he’d follow him over to Bourbon Street. After devouring the treat and listening to Caponey go on and on, Dice obliged his long-time partner in crime and conceded to follow what he thought was a half-bunny-brained idea: high-hop it to Idaho, make darn sure they got their magic potion drink, become giants, and return to Chicago to rule. They already knew how to be smart and talk thanks to the digital frequency changes. Now all they needed was to grow big.

The rest of the gang, though, it took a lot of talking to convince them, especially Putzy. Caponey had a real tough time convincing him to pack up and leave behind some of his sentimental stuff, and stared down Putz, who didn’t want to leave his garbage can.

“I says pack up your things, we’re movin’ out,” he ordered again in his husky voice. Where the huskiness came from, nobody knew. Caponey always talked big, but wasn’t much taller than the rest of the South-Siders, except Putz, who was just a petite, sweet-hearted nothing fancy all black English hare himself. “C’mon, get packin’, Putz, don’t ya wanna grow bigger? And we need to get movin’ ‘cause Wrigley’s girl’s got a head start on us.”

“Ah jeez, you’re listening to fairytale baloney stuff again. C’mon, we’re s’posed to be Chicago gangsters, not rural bunnies hoppin’ around in some crazy dune desert rabbit town in Idaho.” Putz kept tinkering with the garbage can he’d found yesterday in the alleyway. He wanted to paint it up and put a little mattress in it. It was always difficult for Putzy to up and move, even if it meant just hopping over to a different dark alleyway, let alone a new state.

“What I say, we do. You know that. It’s the way it’s always been.” Caponey slicked his ears back with his right paw, got some hair grease on it, and licked it off.

“Fire engine red. Man I love this color! Look, Boss, almost done.” He looked up at Caponey, who was right in his face. Caponey thought that’s all it would take, but he was wrong. It took another half hour of brooding and silence before Putz reconsidered – and only because he’d be left all alone, since all the other South-Siders were leaving. When Caponey checked back on him, Putz finally gave in. “All right, all right already, I’m packin.” He picked up the red backpack and went to go get his stuff. “Hey, Boss, this ain’t gonna be big enough to get all my stuff in here, no way,” Putz whined.

“You got so much junk, Putz. Pick and choose. One backpack’s all you can handle carrying. You know that. Me? I got me my old suitcase. ONE suitcase here. Oh, and my lucky tie here, passed down and preserved for generations for the leader of the gang. Legend tells the story about how the real live human Caponey wore it during one of his arrests.”

“Boss, I’ve heard that story so many times. I know, I know. Your tie’s the real deal,” Putz lamented.

“Yeah, and I’m the real deal, the leader of this here gang, that’d be me! And you, Dice, and the rest of yous, you’re all I got for family, and we’re all you got. So go get rid of some of that junk of yours!” Caponey ordered loudly once again.

“Ah jeez.” Putz moped on over to his bungalow to say goodbye to some of his belongings, things he sure would miss tinkering with. “I’ll probly only find cabbage grass and sand out there, maybe creepy, crawlin’ creatures of the desert—no tools, no cans, no nothin’,” he mumbled to himself.

Soon, Caponey’s plan was in action. After all, the South-Siders were family, they stuck together. Wrigley tried to talk some sense into him. They all tried, but to no avail.

AUTHORS: Gail Galvan is a retired nurse, poet and writer. She is a member of Write-On Hoosiers, the Northwest Indiana Poetry Society, and the Chicago Writers Association. For more of her books go to: http://www.gailgalvanbooks.com. Mike Evanouski is a graphics designer and professional photographer. This is Mike’s first book.

Authors’ website: http://www.newjackrabbitcity.com.   Contact Gail Galvan at: ggpodbooks@hotmail.com

EBOOK is available at Amazon’s Kindle bookstore: price: $5.00. Paperback is available on Amazon.com (ISBN: 978-1490349510) Price: $9.00.

***********************************************************

LITERARY RECIPE TO SELF-PUBLISH-COPY OF BLOG FROM SEPTEMBER 2013

Join the literary wagon train of self-published poets and
writers. Here is the trail-wagon recipe I cooked up for you.

RECIPE FOR YOUR VERY OWN FREE HOMEMADE BOOK

INGREDIENTS/SKILLS NEEDED:

1. A yearning/ willingness to try something new and perseverance is a must.
2. Computer access and ability to follow instructions.
3. Pick ripe poems, short stories, devotionals, plays, and/or books that you have written. Stir those creative juices into word docs.
4. No spoiled documents that leave a bad taste behind. Utilize an editor or talented writer friend.
5. Spice up the interior with free images from http://www.clker.com. Give credit.

RECIPE:

1. Start a Create Space.com account for free.
2. Shop at the free Create Space Book Market. It’s open 24/7, by the way, with real-live person assistance.
3. Follow instructions to publish. Put in title as draft, so can experiment. Don’t use actual title until ready to publish.
4. Prepare at least 25 pages (minimum) of word document.
5. Pick book size, upload document as interior. View it.
6. Correct any formatting problems.
7. Create a cover (follow prompts).
8. Insert back text on book cover.
9. Create description.
10. Okay, when you sample/view book, it looks good, submit files for review.
11. Note: Color interior is more expensive when you buy your copies, although you will always have a free color cover. You can use a Create Space cover design, or use a CS template/create own.
12. Let your book “simmer” at Create Space for 12-24 hours. They point out any problems. Often, it will say a problem, but it still works, so try it first. If looks okay won’t spend time fixing something do not need to.
13. Get okay on book, view one last time, order up a proof, then copies. Savor the moment!
14. Watch for mail, and enjoy/share your literary creation when it arrives. Serve it with love to family, friends, and readers! I can’t wait for some free samples, since I shared my recipe with you!

LITERARY CHEF’S NOTES

If you only want book for yourself/family/friends—this is the best part—You simply DO NOT choose/serve any channels of distribution. It will be there and you can print up as many books as you want just for you. You can do this for a shorter poetry book or an entire book. It does not have to go “LIVE,” for sale on Amazon, etc. However, for authors ready to do so, option is available.

A secret to my special recipe is to have 131 pages if you want your name and the title on the spine of the book—and I don’t usually give away all my secrets in my recipes!

As mentioned in writers’ group, sometimes if something is published, such as a poem, it does not qualify for entry in contests, so it is something to consider before going
“LIVE” and selling on Amazon, etc. However, there are also contests where you can enter whole books of poetry/books of yours and try and win. And, it is just simply terrific to have your own book sitting on the coffee table at home or as a keepsake for your family/kids/grand kids.

Like I always say: “Oh what a wonderful world.” (It really is, printing-recipe-wise for writers.) Nothing like your very own free homemade “Chicken Soup for the Soul” batch of books cooked up or popped out of your unique self-cooking creative literary oven!

Don’t forget: Ben Franklin, Hemingway, Thoreau, Twain, Grisham, Stein, Whitman, Beatrix Potter, E. A. Poe, Stephen King, T.S. Elliot, Sandberg, e.e. cummings, —they were all pioneers, self-publishers. Believe me; many would have used Create Space in a heartbeat! And saved themselves a lot of money! Not only that, but they would be proud of us for being the pioneering self-publishers of our generation.

 

ALLERGY/ASTHMA AWARENESS MONTH 2014

RESOURCES, INFORMATION, AND SUPPORT FOR THE MILLIONS WHO MUST ENDURE ALLERGIES/ASTHMA/AND AUTOIMMUNE AFFLICTIONS

“You do not have to travel down those sneezy, wheezy, often painful, disabling rocky roads alone!”

“Let Henry, a friendly antibody, tell you the inside story about hypersensitive, whacky, out of control immune systems. He’ll be there for you when you need him.” (Sneezing Seasons: The Inside Story about Allergies and Immunology/paperback and kindle.)

1. The Road Back Foundation (www.roadback.org)
2. http://www.RA-Infection-Connection.com
3. Dr. Gabe Mirkin (www.drmirkin.com)
4. http://www.rawarrior.com
5. The Arthritis Foundation (www.arthritis.org)
6. The Lupus Foundation of America (www.lupus.org)
7. The American Autoimmune-Related Disease
Association (www.aarda.org)
8. The National Institute of Allergies and Infectious
Diseases (www.niaid.nih.gov)
9. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America
(www.aafa.org)
10. The American Academy of Pain Medicine
http://www.painmed.org)
11. The National Fibromyalgia Association
(www.fmaware.org)
12. The John Hopkins Arthritis Center and Mayo Clinic
13. The Arthritis Center of Riverside, California
(www.thearthritiscenter.com)
14. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society
(www.nmss.org)
15. The National Institute of Arthritis and
Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
(www.niams.nih.gov)
16. The Arthritis Trust of America Foundation
(www.arthritistrust.org)
17. The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America since some
research indicates possible inflammatory and/or
autoimmunity causes (www.alzfd.org)
18. The American Lung Association (www.lung.org/lung-
disease/asthma)
19. http://www.epifamily.com
20. http://www.quackwatch.org Note: Opinions vary with this
site. Many find it helpful to distinguish facts
from fallacies/quackery in a complex world related
to health, disease, and medicine. Others
express concerns that the site sides with more
conservative and/or orthodox treatments rather
than acknowledging some research studies or the
testimonials of many who claim that alternative
choices have worked well. (Or inquire on a
subject, check scam.)

ASTOUNDING FACTS AND FIGURES

FACTS: Statistics vary at times from various sources, but according to the Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America: (sources 4 and 5)*

FIFTY MILLION Americans suffer from all types of allergies (1 in 5 Americans).

Allergy prevalence has increased overall since the early 1980’s across all ages, genders, and racial groups.

Allergies is the 5th leading chronic disease in the U.S. amongst all ages.

Allergies are the 3rd most common chronic disease amongst children through age 18 years old.

Allergies are the most frequent reported chronic conditions in children—limiting activities for more than 40% of them.

Each year, allergies accounts for more than 17 million outpatient office visits, primarily in spring and fall.

Nearly 400 Americans die each year due to drug allergies from penicillin.

There are more than 200 deaths that occur each year due to food allergies.

Ten deaths each year are due to severe reactions to a latex allergy.

Annual costs due to allergies is estimated at nearly 14.5 billion dollars.

Adult allergies (hay fever) is the 5th leading chronic disease and a major cause of work absenteeism accounting for 4 million missed or lost days each year.

Daily asthma statistics are alarming too:

Nearly twenty-five million Americans suffer from asthma.
Asthma is the most common chronic condition among children.

44,000 asthma attacks occur daily.
36,000 kids miss school daily
27,000 adults miss work daily
4,700 people visit the ER daily
1,200 are admitted to the hospital daily

9 ASTHMATICS DIE DAILY!

*(FOR SOURCES SEE PAGES 141-144 in book: Sneezing Seasons: The Inside Story about Allergies and Asthma)

MAIN CHARACTERS

ANTIBODIES:

Henry (Sergeant)
George (Sergeant)
Major Borline
Captain Kale
Sergeant Birlly
Private Richey
Private Porter
Corporeal Geno Getson (Vessel Patrol Officer)
Sergeant Deb Doss (Special Forces: Food Allergies)

ANTIGENS:
Vernie
Vance
Carlos
Tobie
Kristie
Kath
Gemly
Skidder
Karin and Ronnie (a couple of antibody converts)

“The body, mind, spirit, and friendly, well-educated antibodies are the heroes. After all, if we are going to keep chasing life and cheating death as the wise doctor, Sanjay Gupta, advocates—we need that genuine holistic healthcare outlook.”
Gail Galvan

INTRODUCTION

To hopefully help increase awareness and a better understanding of allergies and immunology, for those not as familiar as others, I have included a list of terms related to the story. It might help to have handy access to the following site while reading the book: http:en.wikipedia.org/wiki/
Main_Page: With the insertion of a word and one simple click, you can look at definitions. I have, however, included some of the most important terms here.
I have already introduced you to some of the main characters, so you will know who and what they are when their names come up, especially during the human-body-inner-immunological-wars that Henry is trying to win in order to save lives.

GLOSSARY

allergy is a hypersensitivity disorder of the immune system.[1] Allergic reactions occur when a person’s immune system reacts to normally harmless substances in the environment.

allergen is a type of antigen that produces an abnormally vigorous immune response in which the immune system fights off a perceived threat that would otherwise be harmless to the body.

antibody (Ab), also known as an immunoglobulin (Ig), is a large Y-shaped protein produced by B cells that is used by the immune system to identify and neutralize foreign objects such as bacteria and viruses. The antibody recognizes a unique part of the foreign target, called an antigen.[1][2]

antigen is the substance that binds specifically to the respective antibody.

autoantibody is an antibody (a type of protein) manufactured by the immune system that is directed against one or more of the individual’s own proteins. Many autoimmune diseases are caused by autoantibodies.

autoimmune diseases arise from an inappropriate immune response of the body against substances and tissues normally present in the body.

autoimmunity is the failure of an organism in recognizing its own constituent parts as self, thus leading to an immune response against its own cells and tissues.

anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction that is rapid in onset and may cause death.[1] It typically causes a number of symptoms including an itchy rash, throat swelling, and low blood pressure. Common causes include: insect bites/stings, foods, and medications.

asthma (from the Greek ἅσθμα, ásthma, “panting”) is a common chronic inflammatory disease of the airways characterized by variable and recurring symptoms, reversible airflow obstruction, and bronchospasm.[2] Common symptoms include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.[3]

B cells belong to a group of white blood cells known as lymphocytes, making them a vital part of the immune system. B cells can be distinguished from other lymphocytes, such as T cells and natural killer cells (NK cells), by the presence of a protein on the B cells outer surface known as a B cell receptor (BCR). This specialized receptor protein allows a B cell to bind to a specific antigen. The principal functions of B cells are to make antibodies against antigens, to perform the role of antigen-presenting cells (APCs), and to develop into memory B cells after activation by antigen interaction. The abbreviation “B”, in B cell, comes from the bursa of Fabricius in birds, where they mature. (Latin: Bursa cloacalis or Bursa fabricii) The bursa is present in the cloaca of birds and is named after Hieronymus Fabricius who described it in 1621.[1]

cell is the basic structural, functional and biological unit of all known living organisms. Cells are the smallest unit of life that is classified as a living thing, and are often called the “building blocks of life”.

corticosteroids are a class of chemicals that includes steroid hormones naturally produced in the adrenal cortex of vertebrates and analogues of these hormones that are synthesized in laboratories. Corticosteroids are involved in a wide range of physiological processes, including stress response, immune response, and regulation of inflammation, carbohydrate metabolism, protein catabolism, blood electrolyte levels, and behavior. Prednisone is an example of a synthetic corticosteroid drug that is particularly effective as an immunosuppressant drug. It is used to treat certain inflammatory diseases (such as moderate allergic reactions) and (at higher doses) some types of cancer, but has significant adverse effects. Because it suppresses the immune system, it leaves patients more susceptible to infections.

cytokines (secreted proteins and signaling molecules) the term “cytokine” has been used to refer to the immunomodulating agents, such as interleukins and interferons. They are regulators of host responses to infection, immune responses, inflammation, and trauma.[2

desensitization (also known as allergen immunotherapy) is a method to reduce or eliminate an organism’s negative reaction to a substance or stimulus. Cellular level administration of small doses of toxin produces an IgG response which eventually overrides the hypersensitive IgE response.

eosinophil granulocytes, are white blood cells and one of the immune system components responsible for combating multicellular parasites and certain infections in vertebrates. Along with mast cells, they also control mechanisms associated with allergy and asthma.

epinephrine (also known as adrenaline or adrenalin) is a hormone and a neurotransmitter.[1] Epinephrine has many functions in the body, regulating heart rate, blood vessel and air passage diameters, and metabolic shifts; epinephrine release is a crucial component of the fight-or-flight response of the sympathetic nervous system.[Due to its vasoconstrictive effects, adrenaline is the drug of choice for treating anaphylaxis. Allergy[6] patients undergoing immunotherapy may receive an adrenaline rinse before the allergen extract is administered, thus reducing the immune response to the administered allergen. Adrenaline is also used as a bronchodilator for asthma if specific β2 agonists are unavailable or ineffective.[7]

epipen (epinephrine autoinjector) is a medical device used to deliver a measured dose (or doses) of epinephrine (also known as adrenaline).An Epipen is used for the treatment of acute allergic reactions to avoid or treat the onset of anaphylactic shock.

granulocytes are a category of white blood cells characterized by the presence of granules in their cytoplasm.[1] There are three types of granulocytes, distinguished by their appearance under Wright’s stain: neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils.

histamine is an organic nitrogen compound involved in local immune responses as well as regulating physiological function in the gut and acting as a neurotransmitter.[2] Histamine triggers the inflammatory response. As part of an immune response to foreign pathogens, histamine is produced by basophils and by mast cells found in nearby connective tissues. Histamine increases the permeability of the capillaries to white blood cells and some proteins, to allow them to engage pathogens in the infected tissues.[3]

hypersensitivity (also called hypersensitivity reaction or intolerance) refers to undesirable reactions produced by the normal immune system, including allergies and autoimmunity. These reactions may be damaging, uncomfortable, or occasionally fatal. Hypersensitivity reactions require a pre-sensitized (immune) state of the host.

immunity is the state of having sufficient biological defenses to avoid infection, disease, or other unwanted biological invasion. It is the capability of the body to resist harmful microbes from entering it.

immunodeficiency (or immune deficiency) is a state in which the immune system’s ability to fight infectious disease is compromised or entirely absent.

immunoglobulin E (IgE) is a class of antibody or immunoglobulin (Ig) “isotype” (related protein/genes) that’s found only in mammals IgE also plays an essential role in type I hypersensitivity,[7] which manifests various allergic diseases, such as allergic asthma, allergic rhinitis, food allergy, and some types of chronic urticaria and atopic dermatitis. IgE plays a pivotal role, too, in allergic conditions, such as anaphylactic reactions to certain drugs, bee stings, and antigen preparations used in specific desensitization immunotherapy.

Immunoglobulin G (IgG) is an antibody isotype (related proteins/genes). Each IgG has two antigen binding sites. Antibodies are major components of the immune system. IgG is the main antibody isotype found in blood and extracellular fluid allowing it to control infection of body tissues. By binding many kinds of pathogens—representing viruses, bacteria, and fungi—IgG protects the body from infection. It does this via several immune mechanisms.

immunotherapy is a medical term defined as the “treatment of disease by inducing, enhancing, or suppressing an immune response”.[1] Immunotherapies designed to elicit or amplify an immune response are classified as activation immunotherapies, while immunotherapies that reduce or suppress are classified as suppression immunotherapies.

isotype usually refers to any related proteins/genes from a particular gene family. In immunology, the “immunoglobulin isotype” refers to the genetic variations or differences in the constant regions of the heavy and light chains.

leukotrienes are a family of eicosanoid inflammatory mediators produced in leukocytes .[1][2] As their name leukotrienes implies, leukotrienes were first discovered in leukocytes, but have since been found in other immune cells. Leukotrienes use lipid signaling to convey information to either the cell producing them (autocrine signaling or neighboring cells (paracrine signaling) in order to regulate immune responses. Leukotriene production is usually accompanied by the production of histamine and prostaglandins, which also act as inflammatory mediators. One of their roles (specifically, leukotriene D4) is to trigger contractions in the smooth muscles lining the bronchioles; their overproduction is a major cause of inflammation in asthma and allergic rhinitis.[3] Leukotriene antagonists are used to treat these disorders by inhibiting the production or activity of leukotrienes.

lymphocyte is a kind of white blood cell in the vertebrate immune system,[1] specifically, a landmark of the adaptive immune system.Under the microscope, Lymphocytes can be divided into large lymphocytes and small lymphocytes. Large granular lymphocytes include natural killer cells (NK cells). Small lymphocytes consist of T cells and B cells.

lymphatic system is part of the circulatory system, comprising a network of conduits called lymphatic vessels that carry a clear fluid called lymph (from Latin lympha “water goddess”[1]) directionally towards the heart. The primary function of the lymph system is to provide an accessory route for these excess 3 litres per day to get returned to the blood.[2] Lymph is essentially recycled blood plasma. Lymphatic organs play an important part in the immune system, having a considerable overlap with the lymphoid system.

macrophages, (Greek: big eaters, from makros “large” + phagein “eat”), are cells produced by the differentiation of monocytes in tissues. Their role is to phagocytose, or engulf and then digest, cellular debris and pathogens, either as stationary or as mobile cells. They also stimulate lymphocytes and other immune cells to respond to pathogens. They are specialized phagocytic cells that attack foreign substances, infectious microbes and cancer cells through destruction and ingestion. They are present in all living tissues, and have a function in regeneration.[3]

mistaken identity Allergic reactions occur when a person’s immune system reacts to normally harmless substances. The hypersensitive person’s body causes a false alarm reaction as it “perceives” a threat. Those who are not hypersensitive—mount significant Immunoglobulin E responses only as a defense against real threats, such as: infectious diseases. However, for allergic individuals, a trigger that causes a reaction can be a simple spec of dust or a tiny digestion of food.

MAST CELL

mast cell is a resident cell of several types of tissues and contains many granules rich in histamine and heparin. Although best known for their role in allergy and anaphylaxis, mast cells play an important protective role, as well, in being intimately involved in wound healing and defense against pathogens.[2] The mast cell is very similar in both appearance and function to the basophil, a type of white blood cell. However, they are not the same, as they arise from different cell lines.[3]

monoclonal antibodies (mAb or moAb) are monospecific antibodies that are the same because they are made by identical immune cells that are all clones of a unique parent cell, in contrast to polyclonal antibodies which are made from several different immune cells. Given almost any substance, it is possible to produce monoclonal antibodies that specifically bind to that substance; they can then serve to detect or purify that substance. This has become an important tool in biochemistry, molecular biology and medicine. One monoclonal antibody, Omalizumab (trade name Xolair), is a humanized antibody. It inhibits human immunoglobulin E (IgE) and is useful in moderate-to-severe allergic asthma.

monocytes are a type of white blood cell and are part of the innate immune system of vertebrates including all mammals (humans included), birds, reptiles, and fish. Monocytes play multiple roles in immune function. Monocytes play multiple roles in immune function. Such roles include: (1) replenish resident macrophages and dendritic cells under normal states, and (2) in response to inflammation signals, monocytes can move quickly (approx. 8–12 hours) to sites of infection in the tissues and divide/differentiate into macrophages and dendritic cells to elicit an immune response. Half of them are stored in the spleen.[1

neutrophils are a type of phagocyte and are normally found in the blood stream. During the beginning (acute) phase of inflammation, particularly as a result of bacterial infection, environmental exposure,[4] and some cancers,[5][6] neutrophils are one of the first-responders of inflammatory cells to migrate towards the site of inflammation.. Neutrophils are recruited to the site of injury within minutes following trauma and are the hallmark of acute inflammation.[7]

pathogen (Greek: πάθος pathos “suffering, passion” and γενής genēs “producer of”) in the oldest and broadest sense is anything that can produce disease.[1] Typically the term is used to mean an infectious agent (colloquially known as a germ) – a microorganism, in the widest sense such as a virus, bacterium, prion, or fungus, that causes disease in its host. The host may be an animal, human, a plant, or even another microorganism.

phagocytes are the cells that protect the body by ingesting (phagocytosing) harmful foreign particles, bacteria, and dead or dying cells. Their name comes from the Greek phagein, “to eat” or “devour”, and “-cyte”, the suffix in biology denoting “cell”, from the Greek kutos, “hollow vessel”.[1] They are essential for fighting infections and for subsequent immunity. The professional phagocytes include cells called: neutrophils, monocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells, and mast cells.[10

proteins are large biological molecules consisting of one or more chains of amino acids. Proteins perform a vast array of functions within living organisms, including catalyzing metabolic reactions, replicating DNA, responding to stimuli, and transporting molecules from one location to another.

Samter’s triad (It is named for Doctor Max Samter.) [21] Semester’s triad is a medical condition consisting of asthma, aspirin and NSAID sensitivity, and nasal/ethmoidal polyposis.[1] It usually begins in young adulthood[2] (twenties and thirties are the most common onset times)[3] and may not include any other allergies. Initial reports on the link between asthma, aspirin and nasal polyposis were made by Widal in 1922.[22] Further studies were done by Samter & Beers in reports published in 1968.[23] It wasn’t until 1968 when Samter and Beers described patients with the symptom triad of: asthma, aspirin sensitivity and nasal polyps that the condition became recognized and known as Samter’s triad. Chronic hyperplastic sinusitis (enlargement caused by excessive multiplication of cells) is now considered a fourth hallmark of the disease, with the preferred name now being aspirin exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD).

T cells or T lymphocytes are a type of lymphocyte (itself a type of white blood cell) that play a central role in cell-mediated immunity. They are called T cells because they mature in the thymus.

White blood cells, or leukocytes (also spelled “leucocytes”), are cells of the immune system involved in defending the body against both infectious disease and foreign materials The name “white blood cell” derives from the fact that after centrifugation of a blood sample, the white cells are found in the buffy coat, a thin, typically white layer of nucleated cells between the sedimented red blood cells and the blood plasma. The scientific term leukocyte (from the Greek word leuko- meaning “white” and kytos meaning “hollow vessel”, with -cyte translated as “cell” in modern usage) directly reflects this description.

Best Top Twelve List of Resources for Writers

1. createspace.com (self-publish paperbacks for free)*

2. kdp.amazon.com(self-publish digital e-books for free)*

3. http://davidgaughran.wordpress.com/lets-get-digital/ (Terrific blog, the best resources and advice/info about pros to self-publishing/good print on demand services and bad ones/“snake oil scams.”) _______________________________________________________________

David Gaughran is a 34-year old Irish writer, living in London, who spends most of his time traveling the world, collecting stories. He is the author of the popular/award-winning self-publishing guide Let’s Get Digital: How To Self-Publish, And Why You Should.
He runs the publishing blog Let’s Get Digital and the South American history site South Americana, has a regular column at Indie Reader, and his work has been featured in the Huffington Post, The Sunday Times, the Irish Times, and the Irish Examiner.
_______________________________________________________________

4.(www.parapublishing.com) Dan Poynter Self-Pub Expert

5. Write on Hoosiers/Northwest Indiana Writers’ Group (writeonhoosiers.org) and blog.

6. Chicago Writers Association (chicagowrites.org)

7. Independent Book Publishing Association (www.ibpa-online.org)Formerly Publishers Marketing Assoc.

8. National Writers Association (www.nationalwriters.com)

9. Writer’s Digest Magazine (www.writersdigest.com)

10. Poets and Writers (pw.org)

11. Never hurts to use a both/and approach to seeking publication. But save yourself some time by checking out: (www.aaronline.org) Association of Authors’ Representatives to find legitimate literary agents.

12. Web designs and graphics (www.goliveidaho.com)

*Of course editing is extra. But you can hire your own editor, get the book ready and submit. Cover designs can be made also for free, though paid editing and graphic design services are offered. See my September blog for my LITERARY RECIPE: HOW TO “WHIP UP” YOUR VERY OWN FREE SELF-PUBLISHED BOOK.

AUTHOR’S NOTE: OOPS! GUESS I’LL HAVE TO ADD A LUCKY
NUMBER 13 TIP/RESOURCE: (www.ebooklaunch.com)

Ebook Launch helps with formatting paperbacks and ebooks for Create Space and Kindle Direct Publishing.

BLOG: March 5, 2014/Where it all Started, 1984

Well, here’s my latest: my early life autobiography. Title: Autobiography of an Allergic/Asthmatic Survivor. It is the first book I ever wrote, back in 1984. I didn’t publish it until 2001. I have now revised it and published with CreateSpace (paperback), and the kindle version with Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing. Still lovin’ this magical, revolutionary publishing era in which I am lucky enough to live in.

Finished the screenplay for New Jack Rabbit City. I’m trying to get some attention/interest in a stage play enactment of this fun, talking rabbit tale.

WRITE-ON! AND HAPPY EASTER SEASON!

THANK GOD FOR ENDINGS. THIS WINTER CAN SOON BECOME JUST A FROZEN-IN-TIME, WHITE-OUT MEMORY.

KINDLE: New Jack Rabbit City

EXTRA! EXTRA! READ ALL ABOUT IT!

The enchanting story about a magical kingdom and new generation of tall, talking rabbits is now available on Kindle! ENJOY!

My co-author and I will be hopping along in April (Easter Season)to promote this fun story and cast of animated characters.

Also, the screenplay is still a work in progress! (After this is complete, want to adapt/shorten story to a stage play.)

We all have to keep making magic happen in our lives!

So happily hop on! Cheers and Happy Holiday! GG

BOOK REVIEW SNEEZING SEASONS

BOOK: SNEEZING SEASONS: The Inside Story about Allergies and Immunology

WINNER: (STORY) 2013 FIRST PLACE Contest/Health category at Five Star Publications. (2012 WINNER COVER)

BOOK REVIEW: BY LAUREN KOSSACK (www.epifamily.com) November 2013

I can’t tell you how excited I was to receive Gail Galvan’s book, “Sneezing Seasons 2013: The Inside Story about Allergies & Immunology.” I’ve had the honor to review lots of books about food allergies written for children. However, this is the first book that I’ve been able to read and review that is geared towards teens and adults.

Gail Galvan’s struggle with asthma and allergies began at an early age. She pursued a career in nursing and that coupled with her love for writing brought her this fun book. This 133-page book is an easy read and very insightful into the world of allergies. Gail shares her insights and knowledge through Henry, a friendly antibody. This book is made up of a series of stories that Henry is recounting from his perspective. By reading Gail’s book I gained a much better understanding of how antibodies and antigens respond during an allergic reaction. And I didn’t have to sift through lots of medical and scientific verbiage! {Thank you, Gail!}

This book would be a wonderful read for all adults but also for middle school and high school children who are trying to gain a better understanding of how our bodies respond to allergic reactions and asthma attacks. With that being said, I’d warn you that there is an incident in the first chapter where a young girl dies of anaphylactic shock. So use your judgment if you choose to hand this book to your child. Nonetheless, you’ll grow to love Henry and his buddies as you read their stories.

You can purchase a paperback copy of this book on Amazon.com. If you have a Kindle then you can purchase this book for $1 on Amazon.com.
You can also find out more about Gail and her books by checking out her website and following along on her blog at: http://www.gailgalvanbooks.com.

Disclosure: I received 1 copy of “Sneezing Seasons 2013: The Inside Story About Allergies and Immunology” from Gail Galvan to review. The opinions expressed in this post are always honest and do not necessarily reflect those of the brand. You can go to site and read site’s full disclosure.

LITERARY WAGON TRAIN

Join the literary wagon train of self-published poets and
writers. Here is the trail-wagon recipe I cooked up for you.

RECIPE FOR YOUR VERY OWN FREE HOMEMADE BOOK

INGREDIENTS/SKILLS NEEDED:

1. A yearning/ willingness to try something new and perseverance is a must.
2. Computer access and ability to follow instructions.
3. Pick ripe poems, short stories, devotionals, plays, and/or books that you have written. Stir those creative juices into word docs.
4. No spoiled documents that leave a bad taste behind. Utilize an editor or talented writer friend.
5. Spice up the interior with free images from http://www.clker.com. Give credit.

RECIPE:

1. Start a Create Space.com account for free.
2. Shop at the free Create Space Book Market. It’s open 24/7, by the way, with real-live person assistance.
3. Follow instructions to publish. Put in title as draft, so can experiment. Don’t use actual title until ready to publish.
4. Prepare at least 25 pages (minimum) of word document.
5. Pick book size, upload document as interior. View it.
6. Correct any formatting problems.
7. Create a cover (follow prompts).
8. Insert back text on book cover.
9. Create description.
10. Okay, when you sample/view book, it looks good, submit files for review.
11. Note: Color interior is more expensive when you buy your copies, although you will always have a free color cover. You can use a Create Space cover design, or use a CS template/create own.
12. Let your book “simmer” at Create Space for 12-24 hours. They point out any problems. Often, it will say a problem, but it still works, so try it first. If looks okay won’t spend time fixing something do not need to.
13. Get okay on book, view one last time, order up a proof, then copies. Savor the moment!
14. Watch for mail, and enjoy/share your literary creation when it arrives. Serve it with love to family, friends, and readers! I can’t wait for some free samples, since I shared my recipe with you!

LITERARY CHEF’S NOTES

If you only want book for yourself/family/friends—this is the best part—You simply DO NOT choose/serve any channels of distribution. It will be there and you can print up as many books as you want just for you. You can do this for a shorter poetry book or an entire book. It does not have to go “LIVE,” for sale on Amazon, etc. However, for authors ready to do so, option is available.

A secret to my special recipe is to have 131 pages if you want your name and the title on the spine of the book—and I don’t usually give away all my secrets in my recipes!

As mentioned in writers’ group, sometimes if something is published, such as a poem, it does not qualify for entry in contests, so it is something to consider before going
“LIVE” and selling on Amazon, etc. However, there are also contests where you can enter whole books of poetry/books of yours and try and win. And, it is just simply terrific to have your own book sitting on the coffee table at home or as a keepsake for your family/kids/grand kids.

Like I always say: “Oh what a wonderful world.” (It really is, printing-recipe-wise for writers.) Nothing like your very own free homemade “Chicken Soup for the Soul” batch of books cooked up or popped out of your unique self-cooking creative literary oven!

Don’t forget: Ben Franklin, Hemingway, Thoreau, Twain, Grisham, Stein, Whitman, Beatrix Potter, E. A. Poe, Stephen King, T.S. Elliot, Sandberg, e.e. cummings, —they were all pioneers, self-publishers. Believe me; many would have used Create Space in a heartbeat! And saved themselves a lot of money! Not only that, but they would be proud of us for being the pioneering self-publishers of our generation.

 

Selp-Pub Authors Beware!

DAVID GAUGHRAN: YOU ARE OUR HERO! KEEP UP THE RED ALERTS FOR SELF-PUBLISHED AUTHORS.

Hi…I READ DAVID GAUGHRAN’S blog on Authorhouse, AKA 1stbooks, xlibris, etc….about such ridiculous high fees to show book at the Toronto Street Festival….NEEDLESS, but actually NEED TO SAY, self-published authors like myself continue to need to be our own Private Detectives and Advisors when such “attractive,” “promising,” HIGH-PRICED, probably do little good offers come our way….For thousands of dollars, better to buy a trunk full of your books, hit the road and sell them or SOMETHING other than throw good money away and be “gullible-vized” by this kind of stuff. I’ve been self-pub for years…I admire writers who self-publish, but believe me, unless we get smart, we will continue to spend millions on worthless avenues to get our book noticed…and just be puppets handing over our good money to those directly, or INDIRECTLY, like festivals, etc…who take money and DO VERY LITTLE IN RETURN. (Though I’m sure there are some good ones out there in the world, for reasonable fees.)

But, yep, just like any other scam, credit cards, real estate, relationship cons, etc…it’s up to us to be the smart ones…DON’T TURN OVER YOUR MONEY SO EASY….THIS FROM A SELF-PUB AUTHOR WHO INDEED IS A HOOSIER, (Authorhouse is based in Bloomington, Indiana, and elsewhere)….with a book from that one and only….AuthorSolutions, or 1stbooks as it was when I published….I love my book, I love POD s, well some, and SOME advantages about them…but, c’mon guys/girls/execs/whatever….when you started your companies…WAS THAT IN YOUR MISSION STATEMENT…GET RICH OFF OF US AT ALL UNETHICAL COSTS…self-pub who just want a loyal, fair-based POD to help us put our book in print, and perhaps get some REAL, reasonable fee-worthy exposure for our story.

Shame on you, my dear fellow Hoosier POD! Watch out though, CREATESPACE is gonna put a dent right into your tactics…BY OFFERING UP THE BEST DAMN POD DEAL IN THE WORLD! AND WHAT A GREAT, EASY, FREE PROCESS FOR REVISIONS UNTIL AN AUTHOR GETS HIS/HER BOOK READY FOR PRINT! NO more Authorhouse for me! Good luck to writers…Be smart and Write-ON! Gail Galvan.

P.S. Self-Published writers, keep thinking outside of the box for promotion…my latest “scathingly brilliant idea,” is to finish a screenplay for my last self-pub book, since I have songs to go with it….and send off the play to every playhouse, especially Chicago Street Theatre, here in Valpo, and every school drama teacher in Indiana! Until my story gets told and sang on stage! I’m just sayin’…..when we refuse to give up, what else is there? But a view from the other side of the rainbow, called readers for our stories, alas!

To read David’s article, go to: http://davidgaughran.wordpress.com/2013/07/16/penguin-random-house-merger-helps-author-solutions-exploit-writers/

AUTHOR’S UPDATE FOR MY BLOGSITE ONLY: Continue to
promote my two latest books, New Jack Rabbit City: Starring The Chicago Hares and Sneezing Seasons 2013, The Inside Story About Allergies and Immunology. (Contacting libraries in Indiana and Idaho, arranging a couple book-signings, await a review for New Jack, then will post…and WRITING THAT SCREENPLAY, THIRTY PAGES ALREADY!)

Rejection/Avocational Hazzard

Well, alas….I’m right in the groove once again with millions of other persistent writers out there in the world.  I must say, it’s nice to be acknowledged.  At least a literary agent took the time to take a look at the latest book I sent in and actually reply!

THIS JUST IN RECENTLY FROM A LITERARY AGENT FROM WRITERS HOUSE IN NEW YORK:

Although poised and poignant, he didn’t find himself wholeheartedly connecting with the writing, but thanks for the look and good luck.

Of course I wrote back a quick note of thanks…and said I really appreciated the feedback within about a week’s time, as promised.  That was truly remarkable.  Usually it’s months or no reply at all, which they tell you will be the case, unless interested.  I also wrote that in the spirit of Beatrix Potter and Peter Rabbit, we will keep trying to get our story out there, since it’s a tall, talking rabbit tale.

So, just so everyone knows, I still believe in a both/and approach, but at this time, after contacting six lit agents, my co-author and I will probably take that other road now often traveled by writers these days:  self-publishing.  Our story is already on-line at our book website: http://www.newjackrabbitcity.com.

But, we’re thinking createspace.com for paperback and Amazon’s Kindle for an E-book.

Self-published writers often do not break through, make much money, but there is always the exception.  I always tell my writer friends, “Hey, my life is not over with yet!”  I plan to be an exception, someday, just don’t know when.

Okay, all for now on that topic.  Keep the faith and Write-on! GG

 

 

 

 

Literary Updates

BLOG ENTRY (JANUARY 28, 2013-Revised on 2-3-13)

Wintertime, not so bad—It’s whizzing by.  Lots of troubles here with fingers, wrists.  Trying out Dragon..or use typist after I do audio work.  I can type very little in one sitting, or else.  But, I keep trying.  Where there is a will, there’s a way, so cliche, right?…If the body slows down, gotta keep the mind still moving right, even more so, I’d say.

(Literary Updates): New Jack Rabbit City—Starring the Chicago Hares is up and running for a free perusal at: http://www.newjackrabbitcity.com. I’m still contacting agents and publishers. Only members of AAR, (Association of Author’s Representatives), by the way. Remember, there are a lot of scams out there! We’ll see what happens. Michael (Co-Author) has bought what he needs and wanted to print up some books by himself. The book is still headed for Amazon as an E-book, too. Response from family and friends has been great.
I liked what Write-On Hoosier member, George Miga, wrote as an introduction to the 2012 issue of Hoosier Horizon Magazine, so I asked him to write a little review for NJRC and he did. (Thanks George.)

BOOK REVIEW: New Jack Rabbit City—Starring the Chicago Hares

Gail Galvan and Michael Evanouski have created a graphic novel that is a masterpiece of creativity. As an author, I envy how New Jack Rabbit City—Starring the Chicago Hares defies the often mundane confines of plot and characterization. Families and gangster Chicago rabbits decide to leave the grime and crime in Chicago and travel to a mystical and magical community of rabbits in Idaho. The journey is fraught with danger, challenges and opportunities. Great artwork is strategically positioned to enhance the plot and characters.

As the story builds, I began to see the rabbits becoming people I’ve known or characters about whom I’ve read. Then, often, there is a subtle mention of “8-inch ears” or “silver fur,” reminding me who the real characters are. Yet, they are people. It is among my favorite innovative and interesting stories.

Best regards to the authors and readers,
George P. Miga (1-15-2013)
I found an interesting site: kinstantformatter.com. I’m going to try it and see what happens. Hope it solves the formatting issues for submitting E-books on Amazon.com. I’ve got another book to experiment on first, Sneezing Seasons: The Inside Story about Allergies and Immunology. I’ll try the formatting on it, since I have a new cover, the coolest, cutest cat. You’ve got to see the adorable pose! Do you know how many kids cannot have cats and/or dogs because of allergies and asthma?!
(One warning, from my reading, sounds like the kinstant formatter may work for text- only type books, not so well if many illustrations are included.) In other words, for New Jack Rabbit City, with the illustrations which add so much to the story, we’ll still be formatically-challenged authors trying to find our way. But where there is a will, there is a way, right? I just hope to find the least costly and/or timely way!

Contests? I wrote an essay titled: Undercover Disclosure. It’s about the very interesting show Undercover Boss and what takes place when a boss dresses down, acts like one of the average working-class employees, and works right along side of his or her company’s very own employees. I explain why the program always brings me to tears. It really does, no fooling! I’m going to enter that and a couple of poems in http://www.winningwriters.com contests. Again, see what happens.
I keep thinking I need to get back to my Kewanna-Be K-9 sweethearts, Sissy and Holly. I just want to complete a short story of some sort. (The beginning of the story is on our site, NJRC.) The ideas are coming in. I’ll get there soon, and finish it. Can’t leave Sissy and Holly hanging.

I miss my writers’ group, but it’s way over in Schererville and I’ve radically changed my life by giving up the automobile and health-wise, i just can’t get around like I used to.

P.S. I think I’ll post my Undercover Disclosure essay here. Just in case anyone wants to read it.

UNDERCOVER DISCLOSURE

It all starts with a disguise. Eyebrows might be tinted, bald heads covered up with funny toupees on the men, trendy, cool wigs for the ladies. Usually a pair of glasses and a dress down, non-appropriate kind of wardrobe, maybe even tattoos and piercings add to the temporary costume which sports a new identity.
Company Mission Statement: (Something like this) “Let’s go undercover, in the field, and see what’s working, and what needs to change—to make our business more successful and worthy.” Yes “worthy.” The bosses seem to really care about quality assurance, and a healthy, fair working environment.
So the CEO, president, or top executive of a company plays dress up, or down, and walks right into the reality of one of their business establishments and goes to work, as a common everyday worker beside the other actual working class employees. It’s hands on training, and the undercover boss heads right into the heart of a workplace which he or she created.
Restaurants, franchises, caterers, campgrounds, a company that sells blinds or signs—you name it, there seems to be a business out there in our mist just like the ones we see on the show, and we, as consumers and workers can sure identify. Don’t we all wish we had the kind of boss that would come to our worksite, see what’s wrong, make it better, then offer us thousands of dollars because of some disclosure we made that hit our boss right smack dab in the heart?
That’s exactly what happens on the show. Amazing! First the workers disclose their everyday workplace values, ethics, skills, and habits, bad or good. All of this takes place with the workers not knowing that the head honcho, the top gun, the main man or woman of the entire business is standing right next to them. How could they know? The disguises work! Not only that, but often it’s been so long since the boss had to get in there and really “work the line” that it doesn’t come easy. Anxiety, learning something new, and fumbling around as if the “trainee” doesn’t have a clue—makes the experience all seem so real and believable.
I shed tears every time I watch the show. Why? Employees share, ultimately disclose some very personal, sometimes incredibly inspiring, often heart-wrenching stories to the one they are training for a day. The bosses take it all in, too. I mean they are feeling it! The guy who used to live in his car, now has custody, and totes his happy little girl to work with him when he can’t find a sitter. Another gentleman who lost his brother to a murder, yet does an impeccable job and seems so happy. A single mom, with a delightful smile and the cheeriest disposition who makes standing in line at a fast food joint feel like the friendliest, happiest moments in a day. The customers love her. I had to wonder, do they come back for the food or just to see her? Probably both, I guess, which is fine with the boss. I’m sure of it.
Like true reality though, it’s not all fine and good. Just picture the look on his face when a shift supervisor learned that he had been “behaving badly,” not only alongside all of his co-workers, but right to the face of the CEO of the business as he trained him. Yet, that boss, he believed in second chances, so that cocky shift supervisor was treated to a training seminar, rather than given a swift kick in the you know what, which surely could have happened. Only nineteen years old, I’m sure the experience changed his life, all for the better.
Time and time again, the most heartwarming of all was the pride I felt as I watched the heart of America, the working class, do their thing well, and with grace and humor. To match that, I was overwhelmed, and of course in tears again, when over and over again, the generosity of the bosses was absolutely astounding. Talk about rewards for hard work! When a boss met someone who put his or her heart and soul into their job and did it well, it became clear, that recognition and rewards were in order.
Paid vacations for those who hadn’t seen their kids in years because they couldn’t afford to take the time off work. College funds so the employee could finally get that degree. More monetary gifts to set up college funds for the children. Gift cards to add onto a house if they needed it, or pay for a wedding or honeymoon that never happened.
The most extraordinary episode I watched, though, pointed out a twist to the show’s intended purpose. Just like in life, most of us learn this: We might give, teach, and offer love and support throughout a lifetime, and all that feels great. The thing is, all the while, we are also given to, taught to, and receiving the love and support right back! It took a seasoned, wise alcoholic, a devoted AA attendee, to heal one CEO’s broken heart from so long ago, due to his dad’s bad habits. There he was disclosing it all and thanking the young man who was employed by him. Only it wasn’t boss/employee as they sat there with tears in their eyes thanking each other for sharing. No, a teacher/student of life meeting of minds and hearts, that’s what happened. And the boss was the student of life on the receiving end!
Talk about making a difference. I guess if we leave our hearts and minds unlocked, open and willing, we can all keep making a difference, as long as we never stop trying. Undercover Boss could be viewed as a sociological experiment, a good one, I think. Don’t you?

© 2013 Gail Galvan