On the Watch for Child Abuse

Wednesday started out to be one of the most emotional days of my life. My grandson entered Kindergarten and the thought of him being out of my care for the first time scared me to death. I kept thinking about his safety. I’m the type of parent that doesn’t allow my children to really go with anyone. I have a small circle of family I fully trust, but anyone who knows me knows I question everything and everyone.

If the day wasn’t already full of emotions, I received several phone calls, emails and private messages concerning rumors of a couple being investigated for child pornography. My first instinct was anger. How dare they prey on innocent children? My best friend Lee Roberts and I run a non-profit organization, Advocates United for Humanity. We do everything in our power to stop these horrific events from occurring and now rumor has that it’s happening in the area.

I have been advocating, writing educational books and testifying before lawmakers for the rights of children for the last 10 years. The things I have seen and heard are more horrible than any award winning screen writer could ever bring to the big screen. These monsters did not come from the swamp or from outer-space and they don’t attack teenagers on a camping trip. These monsters live next door and attack the most innocent among us…our children.

Regardless of anyone’s opinions or personal beliefs, abusers are usually well-known and liked by both you and your child. Abusers can be a parent, relative, family friend, teacher, coach or anyone. They can be a man or woman, married or single. They can hold any religious belief, and have any sexual preference. These abusers seem as normal as you and I on the outside but sick and twisted on the inside.

I wish people would understand anyone CAN be an abuser. Education or intelligence doesn’t prevent them from abusing, molesting or sexually trafficking your child. Abusers live and work among us; as a stable, employed, and respected member of the community… They become our friends and co-workers, and we quickly convince ourselves we know them, but the harsh reality is we don’t. This world is full of sick and truly evil people.

Abusers easily convince your child they are responsible for their wrongful behavior. They may threaten your child with physical violence against them, you, a pet, or loved one. They are good at manipulating and controlling children through fear. Control makes an abuser feel powerful. How could anyone feel powerful over a small, scared, defenseless child? Only a coward could…

Just because someone has a good reputation, a good job, nice house, fancy car, wealth or are a pillar of the community — they CAN still be an abuser. It’s not the weirdo on the corner you have to fear. Some of the biggest abusers are the ones you know, respect and trust the most. Be careful who you trust your child with. When someone tries to get close or takes a special interest in your child ask yourself why.

I can definitely say my career path has shaped the way I parent. I question everything and everyone. Regardless. I learned it’s important to look for signs of abuse, grooming behavior, strange interactions with other children and adults or my child’s behavior and to always ask questions. The best gift you can give your child is open communication and knowledge. The knowledge to speak out and protect themselves from these monsters. These abusers are pros at being deceptive. I know it really sucks that we have to teach our children that there are people out there that want to hurt them, but we do. I’d rather be vigilant than a vigilante after the fact. 

- Donna M. Kshir 

On September 8, 2016 Donna Kshir's article was featured at: http://therecord-online.com/site/?p=27678

Advocates United for Humanity hosts grand opening

At the stroke of midnight, November 15, a beautiful bouquet of multi-colored balloons will be released to celebrate the grand opening of Advocates United for Humanity, and to celebrate a very special and dedicated advocate's birthday, Lee Roberts.

Regardless of the myth; violence affects everyone. It's hard to rationalize but statistics show 1 in 3 girls and 1 in 6 boys will be molested by the age of 18, every 10 seconds a child is abused, 1 in 4 women will experience some form of domestic violence in her lifetime, more than 160,000 kids stay home from school daily to avoid being bullied, 5 children die each day from abuse or neglect, an animal is abused every 10 seconds and suicide is the 10th leading cause of death for Americans. Sadly, these statistics are high and on the rise. 

There seems to be no end to this violent outrage, but these leading ladies have taken a stand to do their part and speak out. Laurie Ann Smith, Lee Roberts and Donna M. Kshir are all well known for their work and dedication to fighting for children's rights. Each have over a decade of hand's on experience in the field of advocacy work, as well as each are certified advocates and mandated reporters. They have seen firsthand how violence destroys lives. They know all too well the affect violence can have on children, as well as adults and animals.

Advocates United for Humanity provides vital resources for those in need; bullying, child abuse, domestic violence, what to do if your child goes missing, rape, suicide and to prevent animal cruelty. Their first national campaign is a free mobile app, "AdvUnited4Human." The app provides free local and state hotlines phone numbers and assistance to those affected by violence and abuse. It also provides resources to make an anonymous report of abuse, threats, violence and other potentially dangerous situations.

Advocates United for Humanity is based out of Renovo, Pennsylvania with offices in Crestview, Florida and Calgary, AB Canada. Their goal is to be a voice for all mankind and provide vital resources to those in need. Currently these leading ladies have been invited to attend several local and state level events to speak out against violence.

For more information, to download or scan the AdvUnited4Human App or to support their cause, visit their website.

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Remembering Kelley

Sometimes God brings special people into our lives. We may never understand what, why, when or how, but it is meant to be. He and His will knows just how much this person will help, encourage and inspire one's life. The time spent with Kelley Jo may have been short, but she has touched each and every member of the small community of Renovo with her big heart, kindness, laughter and contagious smile.

Continue reading:

http://www.examiner.com/article/remembering-kelley

Saying goodbye to Kelley

Its been over a month since we lost our friend, but to those who truly knew Kelley it seems like yesterday. I've had several people say, "time heals all wounds." When we experience loss "time" is supposed to heal the pain, ease the hurt and eventually stop and allow us to move forward in our own lives, but when you lose someone like Kelley that statement seems unrealistic.

Continue reading:

http://www.examiner.com/article/saying-goodbye-to-kelley

Celebrating Our Heritage

Imagine being able to capture and share the most cherished memories of our Christmas heritage for future generations to experience.

On Sunday, December 14, Heritage Park will be transformed into a Christmas winter wonderland. The Christmas Elf and Mrs. Claus will be in attendance to greet you and your children at the door with hot chocolate, cookies and lots of hugs. The event will last from 2p.m to 5 p.m at Heritage Park Headquarters, 530 Erie Avenue, Renovo.

Local authors Donna Kshir, Bob Shank and Maureen Ruhl will be in attendance catching the attention of their young audience while challenging their imagination and intellect. Kshir and Shank have written a collection of entertaining short stories and poems that are stimulating, witty, charming, surprising and a satisfying reading experience for children. 

Ruhl  recently finished writing a book called "Frozen Tears" that is partially based on her experiences. She she hopes it will help people to open up and discuss the painful subject. "I think 'Frozen Tears' picks up wither other books end," she said. "It's actually designed for a safe person to discuss the suspicion of abuse before they go to the police. It talks about boundaries, telling them they're allowed to say no.

A book signing and reading will be featured. A limited amount of books will be available for purchase, or an order can be placed.

A variety of arts, crafts and other activities will be available to all children. The public is encouraged to attend. For more information on the event, contact Alice Tarr at 570-923-0458, or for more information on the Renovo Storyteller book series, visit http://renovostorytellers.weebly.com.

Teacher releases love story

Love is an extraordinary feeling; love can conquer all. It's a very powerful emotion. It can keep a woman alive; it can help her endure almost any situation she is faced with. Love can be cruel, but it can also be kind.

Local French born writer Isabelle Esling has spent the last decade as a music journalist; interviewing some of he best talent in the business. Her most memorable interview was with D12 and Eminem's best friend, Proof, shortly before his untimely death. In 2012, Amber Books published her first book, "EMINEM and the Detroit Rap Scene: White Kid in a Black Music World." Esling's book soared and instantly became a National Bestseller.

Her current release, "The Muse" shows the young author in a different light; transforming her from a music journalist to novelist.

Life is a mystery; you never know what is going to happen from one second to the next. Even in the darkest situations when everything can seem lost; love always seems to find a way to bring you closer and get you through any situation. Sometimes what appears to be a misfortune is a golden opportunity in disguise. Although at the time it may not seem that way.

Dolores Fernandez, a Spanish native was living happily in Murcia; working as a radio producer for national Channels. She had a boyfriend to die for, a lovely family and wonderful friends, but the economic crisis taking place in Spain was scaring Dolores. She decided to grab a chance and participate to the Green Card Lottery. In America, she thought she would be able to better her situation and come back to Spain in excellent conditions-or so she thought.

Dolores got lucky and won the Green Lottery.

After the first euphoria is gone, Dolores suddenly realizes that she has to sacrifice her love life to live on her own in NYC. Even then life in NYC becomes a routine of boredom. Afraid of being alone in a big City, Dolores lacks courage to leave her current boyfriend.

When everything seems lost, love always seems to knock at the door in the most unusual places. Someone, different and very special enters Dolores life; on cold night in December, two strangers in the night unite and passion soars. If you are fond of love stories, The Muse will take you by storm.

"The Muse" is expected to be a bestseller and can be purchased in paperback or digital formats; sold exclusively at Amazon and Isabelle Esling Publications.

When Esling is not writing, she is a German teacher who dedicates her life to teaching and helping children.

For more on Esling, to purchase her books, upcoming events or have her attend your organization or group for a speaking engagement, Visit Isabelle Esling Publications at: http://isabelleesling.weebly.com .