Updates

• Robin’s son Ben completed his Eagle Scout service project is to build a small library for a battered women and children’s shelter.  In addition to contributions from many friends, Cathy worked with a new bookstore called Pages in Manhattan Beach (www.pagesabookstore.com) where she performed a reading of her book.  Pages put out a basket asking patrons to donate old books and also generously contributed many from the store.  Ben’s library consisted of 4 sets of bookshelves and over 500 books.
• Sandi's $25 Kiva loan to a Nigerian farmer is now 25% paid off. www.kiva.org/lend/186625

Things You Can Do

• Sign-up for the free Yosemite Conservancy e-newsletter.  Receive special invitations to exclusive in-park events, retail discounts, while making a difference.
• Purchase a Yosemite License Plate www.dmv.ca.gov/online/elp/elp.htm
• Watch the video at www.fallingwhistles.com or purchase a whistle from Falling Whistles and help spread the word.
• Browse the Iona Community bookstore http://www.ionabooks.com/

July Dinner Party Topics 2010

• Yosemite Conservancy is achieving great things in Yosemite National Park and having positive impact in areas like trail repair and wildlife preservation. http://www.yosemiteconservancy.org/ Mona is a passionate appreciator of the park and has been taking her family there for many years.
• Falling Whistles is a campaign to make their weapon your voice and be a whistleblower for peace in Congo and to rehabilitate and advocate for war-affected children. http://www.fallingwhistles.com/  Theirs is a very moving story.
• The Iona Community is a dispersed Christian ecumenical community working for peace and social justice, rebuilding of community and the renewal of worship. www.iona.org.uk Valerie and Sandi recently visited this most amazing and beautiful island in Scotland and shared our photos.  Visit Sandi's photo gallery at http://indyjo.smugmug.com/Travel/Isle-of-Iona-Scotland/12874892_NhsNg#929450712_Ur5tv