Technology has been connecting families for generations. The invention of the phone let us hear voices of loved ones far away, and the creation of the Internet helped us to see them. Today, those same technologies that we’ve used to bring our families closer together are helping us to connect with and support families who are worlds apart. In doing so, the very concept and experience of “gifting” and philanthropy is being transformed.

(BPT) - If you’re heading out into the workforce for the first time, there’s plenty of prep work to do. An employer’s first impression of you could very well be your resume.

(NAPSI)—Now, when you use certain skin care products to enhance your own looks, you can help make the rest of the world a better-looking place, too. Plus, you won’t be the only one working on the issue.

(NAPSI)—Let’s face it, you can have a truly great safari experience no matter where in Africa you go. But in many ways, who you go with is more important than where you go. For me, whether it’s Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Botswana, side trips to Zanzibar or Victoria Falls, or gorilla tracking excursions to Rwanda, my choice of tour operator is always the same—Micato Safaris.

With loving hearts and helping hands, the Grace and Mercy Charitable Foundation is about to open their doors at a new location.

(BPT) - Vitamin A deficiency is a health concern affecting millions of children worldwide, and it is a major underlying cause of child mortality and blindness.

(BPT) - Apparently “in sickness and in health” can mean different things to men and women. As the population ages and the need for extended health care increases, a recent nationwide omnibus survey of 1,005 American adults shows that men and women approach the issue of long-term care planning and insurance from different perspectives.

(BPT) - In the past, giving money to a charity was considered one of the best ways to do a good deed. But thanks to modern technology, the face of philanthropy is changing as people around the world become more connected.

With school in session, now is a good time to sign up for sports and music lessons to keep your child active in the afternoons. But the price tag for ballet class or a season of football can add up quickly. 

A new slate of officers have been installed for the P.E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization) Chapter IM in Lodi.

On Saturday between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 1 p.m., the Lodi Branch of American Association of University Women will hold its annual garage sale at 201 Royal Oaks Drive (on the corner of Rivergate Drive) in Lodi.

Patricia 'Pat' Conn

A graveside service for Patricia "Pat" Conn, 71, of Acampo, who died Feb. 13, will be held at 2:30 p.m. today at Cherokee Memorial Park, Highway 99 at East Harney Lane, Lodi.

Delores Martel

A chapel service for Delores Gladys Martel, 74, of Lodi, who died Feb. 10, will be held at 1 p.m. Friday at Lodi Funeral Home, 725 S. Fairmont Ave. Committal will follow at Cherokee Memorial Park, Highway 99 at East Harney Lane, Lodi. Visitation will be held from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. today at the funeral home.

Emma Hein

A chapel service for Emma Joanna Hein, 97, of Lodi, who died, will be held at 10 a.m. today at Lodi Funeral Home, 725 S. Fairmont Ave. Committal will follow at Cherokee Memorial Park, Highway 99 at E. Harney Lane, Lodi.

Although one will be missing around the Thanksgiving table this year, the Steele family feels they have much to be thankful for — even in the midst of tragedy.

A stalwart group of area residents continue to support worthy efforts here, from hospice to arts programs and efforts dealing with at-risk youth and arts programs.

Clean water is a luxury easily taken for granted. While most people in the United States can access potable water from one of several rooms in the average residence, those on the other side of the globe sometimes must walk miles to access a well or river — which could be contaminated with feces or decomposing bodies.

Recently PEO Chapter IM of Lodi met at the home of Patsy Lithco and had its installation of officers for 2011-12. At the April meeting, Lodi Chapter IM celebrated its 75th birthday at the home of Tess Wright. The new officers are Jo Sandelin, president; Pam Brady, treasurer; Tess Wright, guard; Claire Lima, vice-president; Susan Wise, chaplain; Carol Dinkle, secretary; and Mary Hoff, corresponding secretary.

After more than an hour of discussion about the city's banking services, members of the Lodi City Council admitted they were confused and needed more time to navigate the complex financial world.

On Saturday between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 1 p.m., the Lodi Branch of American Association of University Women will hold its annual garage sale at 201 Royal Oaks Drive (on the corner of Rivergate Drive) in Lodi.

Connie During was selected by the Lodi Branch of the American Association of University Women as the named gift honoree for the 2010 AAUW Funds Fellowship Award.

The Teachers College of San Joaquin has received a $55,000 grant from the Intrepid Philanthropy Foundation to provide fellowships to incoming graduate students.

This weekend we attended an engagement party hosted by Christian and his fiancee, Gina.  It was held at a bistro in downtown Sacramento and was just wonderful.  You get to a point in your lives where your children are completely equipped, willing and financially able to run a show like this.  We were simply guests and delighted to play that role.