Happy Hello Dear Readers

The Strength of a Pansy

When Spring first came, I wanted to get some bright yellow Pansies. We had a few last year, but it was very late in the season when we planted them. Somehow Pansies never made my list early this season as well. Not too long after the perennial plants poked their heads through the ground, I spotted a single yellow and purple Pansy. I was surprised and elated. Pansies aren’t perennials, I thought. What has happened here. This past week those of us who garden have experienced the effects of a couple cold freezes on our plants. Yet, yesterday as we walked through our garden surveying the damage – there stood the Pansy. It wasn’t supposed to make it through the winter, and it did. It shouldn’t have survived the frosts, and it did. The Pansy did what each of us do or hope to do: make it through another season and then, survive within that season.

Who’s Who of American Women

Sometime ago, I was nominated to be included in the 25th Silver Anniversary Edition of _Who's Who of American Women, 2006-2007_, scheduled to come out November 25, 2005. This special edition is a companion volume to _Who’s Who in America_ published since 1899. The Marquis Who’s Who in New Providence, New Jersey, is the publisher of the original _Who's Who in America_. Last week I got a letter saying that I have passed the initial screening process, to review my biographical data and sign a release. So, I'm fairly certain that I will be included, but I want to see it in print before I get totally excited. It is a honor to be at this point, and an honor worth sharing. I do not know who nominated me, and Who's Who does not reveal that. You can visit the web site of Who’s Who www.marquiswhoswho.com.

Female Suicide Bombers

It is official now – I’ve signed the contract to write on female suicide bombers with McFarland Publishers. The manuscript due date is Sept. 30, 2005. They are indeed correct that there are not too many books out there, thus they would like the book soon. I’ve been researching and writing for a couple months now, so at least I’m on a roll.

Female Genital Mutilation

The female genital mutilation (FGM) book proofs will arrive in 2 to 4 weeks. It is currently in setup. This book is my biggest book since my first book, _Power and Gender_, so, things take a little longer. FGM also has maps, tables and figures illustrating the four types of FGM.

Congrats!

Congratulations are in order for Craig Cronbaugh for publishing his first book, _Reaching for A Star_. His book is a memoir about his friendship with singer Frankie Laine. It is great to be a small part of his success. It was fun fulfilling the role of a reader of the manuscript.

Cheers!

R