"This...whatever it was...has now been joined by another...whatever-it-is...and they are now proceeding in company. Would you mind coming with me, Piglet, in case they turn out to be Hostile Animals?"  ~ Winnie the Pooh

A few months ago I experienced my first bear jam at Yellowstone National Park. In the midst of an afternoon thunderstorm and raindrops the size of Godzilla's tears, my husband slowed to a rolling stop, inching forward and muttered under his breath: "bear jam". Pardon me, what did you say? A what? Oh. OHHHHHH! Slow down! Slow down!

Having grown up in Southern California, the term bear jam sounds like a lollapalooza of rock musicians staged for a long weekend in bear country USA. Not this time.

As you can imagine, it was VERY difficult to contain my excitement when the cars in front of us finally sped away on our side of Yellowstone highway, apparently done viewing a bear. Wow, a BEAR! I was immediately transported to the place where I understood the profound symbolism of bear and it's meaning to those who have this great beast as a totem. First and foremost, bear is one of the most revered and worshiped animals in ancient times; however, the most interesting aspects of bear are the juxtapositions when observing this magnificent creature in its natural habitat.

On the one hand, we see tranquility, benevolence, nurturing and protection. We all know bear is a consummate mother?one of the most devoted mothers in nature. When all conditions are favorable, we will observe an amicable, relaxed, easy-going creature that seems heartily content to languish in sunny spots where it can stretch and snooze in leisure.

On the other hand, bear is a symbol of power and bravery. The Vikings used bearskins to intimidate their enemies and enhance their ferocity in battle. They invoked bear's warrior spiritand courage during the fightknowing that this powerful energy would support their efforts in standing against adversity and taking action.

In ancient times, bear was the master of its domain and carried the meanings of sovereignty and courage. Woe to those who provoked the wrath of bear by encroaching upon its territory.

So here I was, in very close proximity to this powerful being. Reality show and internet-induced terror of bears washed away instantly at the sight of this mass of wet hair ambling silently along the roadside while grabbing masses of vegetation in his mouth, chomping away, and giving no mind to the mayhem of tourists stopping both directions of traffic.

Despite being only a few feet away, this creature short- circuited my line of terror that starts at the frontal lobe and connects electrically to somewhere near the base of the spine. The only priority was to capture a photo of the first bear I had ever seen outside of a zoo...or a distant memory of Winnie the Pooh. I hurriedly snapped off tens of pictures unable to concentrate on f-stop, apertures or lighting. Fortunately, this bear was a cooperative model that continued to amble on without paying any attention to the fervor churning and multiplying from the epicenter of this bear jam.

Click, click, click...all the while trying to keep the rain out of my passenger-side window and off my camera. My husband finally reminded me that we were on a highway and had to move on to provide opportunity for the myriad of other gawkers. Agreed.

As our car regained speed, I sat silently thumbing through my digital archive of the speedy moment with our bear. I noticed on camera what I had not noticed with my naked eyes in the heat of the moment: our bear was quite scuffed up...scars and fur missing from various places on his face, two tags in his clipped or torn ears, and a wide leather collar with a bent piece of metal where something had apparently been torn free in some imagined hostile confrontation. Thinking back to his walk and demeanor, he just looked sore and detached from his star-struck paparazzi.

As the day progressed, I couldn't help but ponder my bear experience. I thought and thought...and thought some more about our battered bear. Our bear?

It is literally impossible to escape the majesty of Yellowstone. In a single day we experienced a showcase of wildlife: wolves, coyote, a bald eagle, several deer, moose, and herds of bison. What an opportunity. We had been invited into these animals' habitat...almost as one of them, I imagined. I tried to explain this abstract homage to my husband who looked like he was in his own pensive, solitary moment. I asked him what he thought of the strife that seems to be a part of bear's life in this park?in bear's own habitat.

His response will forever be etched in my mind...in my heart: "This park is a wonderful place where we have given sanctuary to these animals to thrive. Unfortunately, we took the land from them in the first place, and tried to give it back. We attempted to impose eminent domain against nature. Now, that bear has to carry tags in his ears, he has to have an undignified collar, and he walks among humans as if just offering a glimpse of his fleeting greatness." He further explained that once you've taken what is rightfully theirs, you can never fully give it back.

I looked out my passenger window and gazed into the screen of pouring rain that seemed to heighten my emotions. Maybe these weren't Godzilla's tears after all; maybe they were bear's...

About Noelle Meade-Izzi

Noelle Meade-Izzi is a published author and as self-proclaimed "Natu-journalist". Her passion in nature and wildlife photography stems from her research and study of the wisdom of the animal world, animal symbolism and animal totems. Her book, The Hummingbird That Answered My Heart's Calling, is a testament to the power of nature and its ability to teach and re-connect humans to their true human nature. You can learn more about Noelle at bee-nevolent.com and connect with her on Facebook and Google+.

What kind of man did you think you would be as a boy? Are you that man, or are you even the guy you'd like to be?

Marshall Chamberlain, a man who has experienced life as a U.S. Marine Corps officer, businessman, husband, father, world traveler, boat dweller, writer and all-around adventurer says it might be time for you to step outside of your comfort zone and become one of the few and proud above-average men.
"It's easy to slip into a lifestyle that you don't want," says Chamberlain, a man who prefers goal-oriented pursuits, such as survival classes and building things, over mundane routine. He's also the author of "The Mountain Place of Knowledge," the first book in the Ancestor Series of adventure-thrillers (www.marshallchamberlain.com).

"Over time, the decisions you make accumulate and lead to a place you may not have expected. In some ways, males in our society have lost the art of being free men, so I want to encourage them to make a conscious decision about who they want to be and rigorously pursue that goal."
Chamberlain outlines the path to being an above-average man.

· Be honest with yourself. There's always room for improvement, whether we're talking about average men or above-average men. It may not be easy, but be honest about your weaknesses - really honest. For example, are you where you want to be in terms of physical fitness? How do you feel when you see yourself in the mirror? Being in shape is its own reward, but it also serves just about every other aspect of an above-average man's life, requiring discipline, determination and good judgment. What's on the outside is a dead giveaway to what's inside. Are you fulfilled in your job? Are your relationships unconditional? Do you really have friends?

· Embrace transformation. The journey to becoming an above-average man will be a rocky road; but it will be well worth it with results you can be proud of. It will require change. We are creatures of habit - but would you rather be like a domesticated house pet with a set feeding schedule or a free man who looks forward to life's challenges and opportunities to grow wise? Challenge yourself and you'll find talents and strength you didn't know you had.

· Measure yourself. You can't know if you're improving unless you establish baselines. Fitness is easily measured; review what you're buying at the grocery store right now, and measure your waistline. How many push-ups or pull-ups can you do now, and how many will you be doing in six months? Measure creative and intellectual pursuits. For example, if you're learning a new language notice the improvement in conversation from week to week. Try reading articles in the new language; if you can't understand them at first, try again a month later. If you want to be a good person, understand and practice the characteristics of impeccability.

· Be hungry for life. It's easy and safe to retreat into things that we already know and do. New ideas and activities challenge your brain and body. Think about the assumptions you have about life, and seek out ideas that contradict them. Deeply consider the merits of both, and think about what makes sense after doing so. Consider getting out of the house for a weekend - that could mean something as extreme as a Stone Age survival course, or something more intermediate, like a camping trip. Maybe it's time to experience a new culture in another country. Life is too fascinating to be lulled into a complacent existence.

About Marshall Chamberlain

Marshall Chamberlain is a man focused on his passions, with no time for pets, lawns, plants, puttering around or companion compromises. He has a Master's Degree in Resource Development from Michigan State University and a graduate degree in International Management from the Thunderbird School near Phoenix, Ariz. He was an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps and spent many years in investment banking, venture capital and even a stint as a professional waiter. He is obsessed with preparedness, survival and independence. This combination of traits and an unconditional openness to life lead him to all manner of adventure. Chamberlain's primary worldview is simple but profound?"I'm in awe of the magnificence of this world."

A lot of people are going to be celebrating I Love Yarn Day on October 11.  According to the Craft Yarn Council there are over 50 million people of all ages who knit, crochet or otherwise work with yarn.  And it's no wonder.  It's not just the destination of getting a scarf or sweater; the journey is full of benefits.  Knitting and crocheting are great anxiety busters, offer something productive to do while waiting and can be a social outlet when done with a group.  Want to Join in?

Getting Started

It's great if you have a friend or family member to teach you, but if not, there are other options.  Check out your local yarn store.  According to Lisa Garcia of the Close Knit Circle yarn shop in Tarzana California, for a nominal fee they will teach someone to knit or crochet.  In addition with a yarn purchase comes the invitation to hang out at the group table in the store and get help on a project.  Some of the craft stores like Michael's or Jo-Ann's offer group lessons.  Try your local community college.  Pierce College in Woodland Hills, California offers yarn craft classes as part of their extension program.

If you're more of a do it yourselfer, it is possible to learn on your own.  There are numerous  books on the market, but Betty Hechtman, author of two yarn related mysteries series  suggests doing what she did and trying a kids' kit.  "I found that the instructions were broken down into easy to follow steps with lots of illustrations. And if the instructions would work for a ten-year-old, I figured they would work for me.  I learned how to crochet granny squares with a kit meant for kids and it changed my life."

First Projects

Don't defeat yourself by choosing something too complicated for a first project.  Also, it is best to stick with easy to work with yarn like basic worsted weight.  A scarf is a great project to start with using either this free knitting pattern or this free crochet pattern. Both use only the most basic techniques.

The Beauty of Handmade

Every knit or crocheted item has its own story.  The experience of picking the yarn, making the project and what was going on in your life are all woven into the stitches.  Remember that what makes handmade items special is they look like real hands made them.  That means there might be a wiggly stitch here and there, but just look at it as part of the tale.

About Betty Hechtman

Betty Hechtman is the author of "Yarn to Go," the first book in the Berkley Prime Crime Yarn Retreat mystery series, as well as the author of the best-selling Berkley Prime Crime Crochet mystery series. The eighth book, "For Better or Worsted," comes out in November.  She has also written newspaper and magazine pieces, short stories and screenplays as well as a children's culinary mystery. She has a bachelor of fine arts degree and has been active in handicrafts since she was a small child. Hechtman divides her time between Los Angeles and Chicago.

McNeil Has Served as Director of Operations for Governor's Office Since 2009; Replaces Outgoing Malcolm Weems

CHICAGO - Governor Pat Quinn today appointed Simone McNeil as the acting director of the Department of Central Management Services (CMS), the state government's human resources, technology, management and procurement agency. McNeil has served as the Governor's Director of Operations since 2009. Today's announcement is part of Governor Quinn's commitment to ensuring an efficient and responsive government for the people of Illinois.

"Simone McNeil is an innovative and capable public servant whose extensive experience will prove invaluable in her new position," Governor Quinn said. "I want to thank outgoing director Malcolm Weems for his dedicated service to the state, and we appreciate all that he has done at CMS."

Weems had served as CMS director since April 2012. He resigned to take a position in the private sector.

Simone McNeil brings a depth of management experience as a human resources professional with extensive work in budget management and staff oversight in state government, healthcare and private sector environments.

McNeil has served as Operations Director for the Office of Governor Pat Quinn since 2009, where she directed operations and managed a comprehensive human resources program. During her tenure as Operations Director, she made it a priority to analyze former human resources procedures in order to streamline processes and bring more efficiencies to the Governor's Office.

Previously, McNeil served as Operations Director under then-Lieutenant Governor Quinn where she maintained operations and human resources for all office employees; prepared the annual budget for submission to the General Assembly and managed and monitored federal and private foundation grants. While in the Office of the Lieutenant Governor, McNeil also served as Ethics Officer for the administration, ensuring the compliance of state laws by all employees.

McNeil served as Human Resources Director for the Office of the State Treasurer where she oversaw the hiring process for all new employees, the administration of benefit plans and programs and participated in the negotiation of labor contracts for the state. In the field of healthcare, McNeil was the Human Resources Director for the Washington and Jane Smith Community where she maintained a human resources program for 350 health care professionals. She was also responsible for developing staff strategies that reduced all-staff turnover by 20 percent.

Having received a bachelor's degree from the University of Illinois, McNeil's history in human resources also includes work at the Illinois Department of Public Aid as a personnel officer, and as a Human Resources Consultant for the Illinois State Chamber of Commerce in Chicago.

The Illinois Department of Central Management Services provides a broad range of programs and services to state agencies and the public. These include human resources and employee benefits, information technology and telecommunications, property and facilities management, procurement and business diversity, vehicle fleet management, and media and marketing.