WASHINGTON (NNPA) – When 6-year-old Simaya Hammonds ditched Dora the Explorer for tween-fare found on the Disney Channel and Nickelodeon, her mom, Tahneezia Hammonds wasn’t surprised.

The precocious first grader enjoys “Shake It Up” on the Disney Channel and “Victorious,” a show about students at a performing arts high school on Nickelodeon, is one of her favorites. “A.N.T. Farm,” a show about a group of gifted middle schoolers (A.N.T. is an acronym for “Advanced Natural Talents) attending a local high school made it into her Disney rotation.

The Women’s Vessel group recently presented The Royal Bride conference.

The conference centered on the purity and sanctity of marriage and women longing for marriage.  Participants included Pastor Joyce Lester and Minister Maisha Barrett.  Several other presenters were present and shared topics ranging from women’s health issues to domestic violence. 

Conference organizer Jennifer Watson stated that this event was not only a way for women to connect with one another, but a way for each woman to gain a better understanding in her relationship with Christ.

It's not your father's Father's Day. This year, consider a variety of unique gift choices to appeal to every kind of modern dad.

For the outdoorsy dad
Whether he is golfing, fishing, camping, hiking or gardening -- the outdoorsy dad's greatest summertime nemesis is insects. Yet many outdoorsmen and gardeners think twice about slathering on synthetic, man-made pesticides. This year, give Dad a less invasive, more elegant option: BugBand wristbands, whose natural vapors repel mosquitos, flies, gnats and more.The wristbands are reusable up to 120 hours, and come packaged in reusable plastic "pods." They are available in summery colors (including genderless choices such as red, yellow, light and dark green, blue, even a glow-in-the-dark version) and can also be fastened to belt loops, hatbands and the like. One of many BugBand natural insect repellent products (including sprays, towelettes and diffusers), the wristbands are available at retailers across the country ($4.95) and at www.bugband.net.

As gardeners well know, there are plenty of challenges our landscapes will face throughout the growing season. Heat, drought, pests and disease can all take their toll on our plants, causing wilting, brown leaves, damaged plants and even plant death.  Fortunately, gardeners now have an exciting new organic tool for growing healthy, productive, and beautiful landscapes all season long.

Over the last several days there have been many deep, soul-searching dialogues and conversations concerning President Obama’s statement that “he” has evolved to assuming the position of recognizing same-sex marriage.  He announced that after prayerful meditations, meaningful conversations with numerous friends and colleagues who are homosexuals; and thoughtful, inspiring discussions within his family “he” has come to realize the value and importance of all human beings (i.e. American citizens) whom he took an oath to serve as their president.

Get out the shovel and trowels – its Memorial Day weekend and that means gardening for many.  Spend a bit more time getting your garden off to a good start and reap the benefits all season long.  Proper planting and post planting care means less maintenance, fewer pests and more produce and beautiful flowers in your landscape.

Start by selecting healthy plants free of insect and disease problems.  There’s no need to spend money on problems.  And keep in mind that bigger is not always better.  Instead look for compact plants with sturdy stems.  The leaves should be deep green or the proper color for that variety.  Avoid plants that show signs of stress such as spots, brown leaf edges, and holes.  And when all things are equal, purchase the perennials with multiple stems.