February 2022 | Gem Specialties

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Oppose "Don't Say Gay" Bills

It's beyond freaky that it's 2022 and we're just circling back to the same battles we thought we'd won. Throughout history, humans have made this a habit, for sure, and empires have fallen over these kinds of cycles. Can you imagine if aliens did swing by and notice that we're facing the same issues--from book burning to outlawing abortion, the plague to child soldiers and human trafficking--that were probably going on during their last visit? I doubt they'd want to stop by again!

Black Businesses to Support

Black businesses need to be a priority for our support every day, not just during Black History Month. Find local Black businesses where you live, or businesses to support across the nation, and if you're not paying reparations and are able, look into that as well. (And if you're not able, remember that the work isn't meant to be comfortable, and sometimes we make sacrifices.

Republic of Tea Offers Free Shipping

Ordering tea for a fancy Valentine's high tea, or just need to re-stock your favorites? Now is the time to do it with Republic of Tea, as the company has announced that all shoppers can get free shipping by spending $30 or more now through February 13 at 11:59PM.

Grateful Dead Valentine Treats

Celebrating Valentine's Day with fellow lovers of the Grateful Dead has never been easier than it is in the modern world, where you can connect with butchers, bakers and candlestick makers all across the nation and globe to find the perfect item.

New Love You to Pieces Tea at Evil Tea Company

The Evil Tea Company has a new blend out just in time for Valentine's Day. Love You to Pieces is made up of Ceylon black tea and features rose petals and natural cherry flavor, a simple yet ideal blend for the holiday. Like many other teas, it comes in a 2 ounce packet and is available for $8. Not into cherry or roses? The company has lots of other blends that work great for this holiday, too.

Human Trials Begin on Moderna's HIV Vaccine

Moderna has been in the news for the last two years mostly due to its effective Covid-19 vaccine, but now the company is making headlines once again for another vaccine--one against HIV/AIDS. The company has begun a series of human trials to test the vaccine, and much of the reason why is due to the technology used to develop the Covid-19 vaccine.

Reading Valentine's Poetry With Littles

With Valentine's Day just a few days away, it's time to start planning on how you're sharing your favorite sonnets, haikus and other lovely poetry with the young people in your life.

Cauliflower Spaghetti

The more veggie-based meals are released--especially if they're of the low-carb variety--the more I rejoice. And when it comes to veggie-based pasta, my heart sings the loudest! Pasta is my favorite food, but I have to avoid it as often as possible.

Why Comedian Commentary Doesn't Bother Me

As everyone smugly gives up Spotify because Joe Rogan continues to spout hatred and misinformation about Covid-19 there, I can't help but shake my head. Yeah, boycotts work, and I typically support them. Yeah, I think corporations only cave when it comes to the almighty dollar, and most of the businesses giving us everything from eco-friendly products to "woke" characters are only doing so to make the bigger buck. But as a disabled person during the pandemic, I have to say I'm much more upset with the folks our bloody TAX DOLLARS are supporting.

Quick Actions You Can Take Today

Looking for some quick actions you can take with a couple of clicks right now? Here are some issues to learn about, take action on and definitely share with others this week!

Pancake-Flavored Puffcorn

Folks who can't get enough of puffcorn treats will line up to try this sweet new offering! Pancake-flavored baked puffcorn is now available and boy, does it look scrumptious. This non-GMO, gluten-free treat is only 50 calories per cup, and it contains no artificial ingredients. Best of all, it has the sweet pancake flavor that you're looking for without the cost (or work!) of real pancakes.

Just Say No To Book Bans

If you're a fan of South Park, you might understand my instinct to mimic the counselor, Mr. Mackey, and say, "Book bans are bad. Mmkay?" It really should just be that simple, yet here we are, with more schools, churches and parents targeting books--books that are typically classics with important messages to deliver. The fact that most of the banners are white and many of the books are about people of color isn't lost on many people, either.