Love Well. Love Wisely.®

World AIDS Day 2011

2011-12-01T10:47:00.000-06:00

World AIDS Day is December 1st and each year this day gives an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, show their support for people living with HIV and to commemorate people who have died.
Just in Case® is teaming up with MTV’s STAYING ALIVE FOUNDATION to raise money in support of World Aids Day.
Just in Case Inc. will donate 50% of all full-price online retail sales during the month of December to the STAYING ALIVE FOUNDATION. The Foundation’s mission is to encourage, energize, and empower young people who are involved in HIV/AIDS awareness, education and prevention campaigns. The Foundation does this by presenting the Staying Alive Awards to young individuals and youth groups who are focused on stopping the spread of HIV and who have demonstrated the potential to become future leaders.
Just in Case® WILL make a different in the lives of sexually active women by keeping them protected, helping restore their self-respect, confidence and honor of their own bodies.
www.JustInCaseInc.com
To further the support for the Staying Alive Foundation, these particular retailers who carry the Just In Case® compacts have also committed to donate a percentage of sales to the cause:
www.veronicascloset.ca
www.sexshopcanada.com

Is Your Index Finger Ready For JIC's Cyber Monday?

2011-11-27T21:00:00.000-06:00

Your Index Finger Workouts are about to pay off!

With all of that training behind you, you are ready for a marathon internet shopping spree!!

JUST IN CASE® is excited to announce Cyber Monday Discounts from your living room! Use the code WORKOUT and receive 50% off your order from 12am to 11:59pm Monday November 28th!!

Share the code, Tweet the joy.
@JustInCaseInc

www.JustInCaseInc.com

Facebook.com/JustInCaseInc

I Got Trampled On Black Friday For A Toaster Oven?!

2011-11-23T09:06:00.001-06:00

I got trampled on Black Friday... for a Toaster Oven?!

Now picture yourself…
In your favorite jammies, fuzzy socks, sipping coffee and calmly clicking on exactly what you want… no lines… no crazed people.

JUST IN CASE® is excited to announce Black Friday Discounts from your living room! Use the code NOTWALMART and receive 50% off your order
from 9pm Thursday November 24th Until 9pm Friday November 25th.

Share the code, Tweet the joy.
@JustInCaseInc
www.JustInCaseInc.com
www.Facebook.com/JustInCaseInc

Just In Case is on TV!!

2011-11-14T07:45:00.000-06:00

You Are The Supermodel TV that is!! A cool new site with all sorts of information about what is out there in the world of Fashion and Just In Case is featured!

Take a look at the JIC video they created!

Sandusky Indictment

2011-11-10T11:58:00.000-06:00

For those of you who defend the non-action of Paterno, my guess is that you haven't read the indictment. I warn you reading this will make you sick to your stomach that NO ONE at Penn State came to the aid of these innocent children.
Where are the REAL MEN? Men who defend honor, do what's right at any cost. Apparently they don't exist in the upper echelon at Penn State.

SANDUSKY INDICTMENT LINK

The Silence of Joe Paterno

2011-11-09T14:41:00.000-06:00

The cover up at Penn State has unearthed the larger question… what are our REAL priorities and responsibilities?

When you are given information of a crime against a child...when is your responsibility to that child over? Yes Joe Paterno reported the crime through the University chain and he did what he was “required to do” when it comes to the laws of the University. But why didn’t he go to the cops? Why did he believe that it was all ok when the man perpetrating the abuse was still working at the University? Why did he not act further when it was announced to not bring young boys around the campus anymore?

When we have knowledge that a child has been harmed we have a responsibility to that child to see it all through to the end, whatever that outcome may be. Paterno reported the abuse to the University but then obviously saw that nothing was being done about the abuse and yet he remained silent. There were countless others who also remained quiet to maintain the good PR for the University and the football team. There are even people who perjured themselves to cover the abuse. Children were sacrificed to maintain the University’s good PR and the money generating football team; that will NEVER be ok.

Where are the men and women who will take the responsibility to do what's right even at high personal cost- who will protect and give a voice to a child who doesn't feel they have one of their own to protect themselves.

Instead those who perpetrate great harm or perpetuate great profit are protected more than our children.

Our priorities are skewed... we need to come back to center and do what is intrinsically right and not just the minimum that is required by a company, or a university, or a law.

That is always where greatness is found and where cowards are discovered.

IT'S OFFICIAL!! Confidential has arrived!

2011-10-05T08:50:00.000-05:00

The latest and greatest from Just In Case!! What is your Sexy Stash?

Happy Labor Day!

2011-09-05T11:12:00.000-05:00

Happy Labor Day to all of our fans and their friends and Family... enjoy the holiday, enjoy some BBQ and remember to always... Love Well. Love Wisely.
www.JustInCaseInc.com

JIC Confidential is almost here!!

2011-08-31T08:21:00.000-05:00

Introducing... JUST IN CASE CONFIDENTIAL!!

BEAUTY WITH A TWIST!

OUR NEW fabulous mirrored compact features our own “Justine Case” and includes a sheer Lip Gloss Duo (SSShh-eer Bliss, Sultry SSShh-immer) and a drawer to hold your “Sexy Stash”.

JUST IN CASE CONFIDENTIAL promises to change the landscape of beauty and will revolutionize the beauty market by providing women a beautiful way to carry their own protection…and have a luscious Lip Gloss always on hand.

These fabulous compacts will be available in September!
www.JustInCaseInc.com

Last Two Days for the Discount Code JIC30

2011-08-26T09:54:00.000-05:00

We are so excited about the new "Likes" to our Just In Case Page on Facebook we want to thank you all with a discount on our site! Check out our page HERE!!

The discount also applies to the other items on our site as well!

There are soy massage candles that are YUMMY!

Happy shopping and...
Love Well.
Love Wisely.
www.JustInCaseInc.com

Just In Case gets props on KTDY!

2011-08-18T10:35:00.000-05:00

Thank you Rick Broussard for the mention this morning on KTDY!! Just In Case is proudly donating a compact for a raffle prize for "Wiggin Out To Fight Cancer" event at Scandals in Lafayette.

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN!

If you are in the Lafayette area come join us! Saturday August 27th Pre-Party from 7pm-9pm. You must wear a wig to enter and a minimum of $10 donation to ACS at the door. Raffle tickets are available now through the Scandals Facebook page:
www.Facebook.com/ScandalsLafayette

www.ScandalsLafayette.com

See you at the event!!
www.JustInCaseInc.com

We're at 300 LIKES!!

2011-08-18T10:04:00.000-05:00

DING DING DING!!! We have officially reached 300 "likes"!!!!! Ready for your code?
from 8/21 thru 8/27 use JIC30 for 30% off your total order!! Feel free to share the code with your friends!!!

Keep the "Likes" coming for more discount codes! www.Facebook.com/JustInCaseInc

Only in New York... Unfortunately

2011-08-14T18:32:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I feel as if everyone has gone crazy with these "puritanical" views or maybe they are just the extreme voices that make it through all of the 24 hour news cycles, and maybe it's just hugely influenced by the small town I live in... here's an article that was posted on KPEL, by Bernadette Lee, my favorite talk radio show host in the mornings here, and you can tell she's speaking to her "audience" - I live in a very small CONSERVATIVE town.
KPEL ARTICLE

This is not how I remember Sex Ed/ Health Class...

I remember health class being about just that, health. I remember sex-ed in Junior High School (6th, 7th and 8th grade) and how it wasn't porn 101 it was just a very forensic class about your body and the birds and the bees. And there were a few classes about STDs that could truly make you want to lock yourself in a closet. They mentioned condoms but we never had the cucumber or banana demonstration, honestly I don't remember that even happening in high school.
I also remember that it was a big deal to "french" kiss someone in 6th grade and to have a boyfriend who held your hand in front of his friends...

Times have changed.

Now a blow job is no big deal, the girls are chasing after these little boys as if they are the ultimate prize, teen pregnancy is rampant and 1 in 4 have HPV... an STD that stays with you for life and can lead to many cancers including cervical and throat.
So you would think that Health and Sex Ed classes would now become more detailed and scary to try and get these kids to focus on something else... but the opposite is true! Abstinence only education... huh?! How does that help these kids?
There are diseases now that there are no cures for, hormonal reactions to sex that both boys and girls are unaware of and therefore unable to pinpoint and deal with.
Basically we are handing hormonal kids loaded guns closing our eyes and saying... "Good Luck with that!"

Can you imagine getting a new gun then going to a "Gun Safety" class and all they tell you is... don't shoot it til you're older and married. Class dismissed!

So what is the big deal about telling the truth to our kids? Why is it so shocking for parents and educators to partner in teaching our kids about their bodies and how to keep themselves healthy? Why is Sex-Ed suddenly being considered Porn 101? We have become a very dramatic nation... my suggestion is that we all take a deep breath and tell our kids the truth.

www.JustInCaseInc.com

They "Like" me, they REALLY "Like" me!!

2011-08-10T08:59:00.000-05:00

Our Just In Case Facebook page is having a "Like" event! Click HERE to check it out!

When we reach 300 "likes" we will post a discount code for 30% off... when we reach 400 we will post a code for 40% off... and when we reach 500 we'll post a code for 50% off!!

The codes will be good for a short amount of time but we will notify everyone who likes the page and you can take advantage of every level of discount! JIC Compacts make great gifts so save them for holidays, birthdays, bachelorette and divorce parties!

What do you put in your JIC compact? Condoms? Tylenol? Cash?
Check out all of our colors and styles! www.JustInCaseInc.com

See you on Facebook!!

Up Your Pricetag!

2011-07-19T11:05:00.000-05:00

This morning a dear friend of mine had some sage advice for another friend of ours going through some trials and tribulations... we've all been "there" and perhaps may go "there" again so I thought I would share her advice... Just in case you are "there" right now...

Thank you Paula for these words:

"If you're not being treated with love and respect, check your price tag. Perhaps you have marked yourself down. It's you who tells people what you're worth by what you accept.
Get off the clearance rack & get behind the glass where they keep the valuables! Bottom line: value yourself more! If you don't, no one else will!
Time to get yourself OFF the CLEARANCE RACK girlfriend :) ....just thought I'd share this one with you suga....xoxo's ...it's actually a good lesson for all of us!"

Love Well. Love Wisely.

Romance Novels and Condoms

2011-07-09T11:25:00.000-05:00

Read an interesting article the other day about condoms and romance novels and there's been a bit of a firestorm around it. I must say, I am enjoying the conversation... Condom Usage in Romance Novels.
There was a little blame being thrown towards the novels that they portray their heroines as being mostly against using a condom when they meet the man of their dreams... and that it has a negative effect on the use of condoms in the real world... hmmm. While I believe we all must take personal responsibility for ALL of our choices, I think romance novels, TV shows, movies, etc have a profound effect on our society and should take the opportunity to make a positive impact on sexual health in this country...
I read a response to the accusation in another BLOG-Family Planning and Romance where the author took the side of "it isn't the book's fault that a woman decides not to use a condom" While intellectually I agree, I wonder if the Romance Novel World could be the format where a revolution could take place, that our heroines ALWAYS make strong choices to protect their sexual health, where even on another planet, and during a different time they would all use a condom, since the readers live here and now, and are facing STD epidemics, and a huge stigma against carrying and using condoms...

What do you think? Do you want to read about your Heroine pulling out her Just In Case compact out of her purse across a crowded dinner party? Winking at her lover because he knows what's in there? I do!! ;)

Of course I had a little something to say about it so here was one of my comments:
While I agree that the romance novel isn't to blame for the negative image the condom may have, we have an epidemic of STD's HIV that the romance novel world could have a very positive impact on. I don't believe her "study" is valid in any way but I'm glad it has sparked a conversation about women and condom use. I believe women have taken a back seat in their own protection for many generations because the man was supposed to always carry the condoms... women just don't have the luxury of ignorance anymore. Ignorance can have very serious consequences these days if not kill you. My mom and I went into business to create a way for women to carry their own condoms discreetly and beautifully Just In Case compacts - so that when she meets that hero who sweeps her off her feet sex can be a bit safer... Funny enough we were featured in the Daytime Emmy gift bags... basically the award show for televised romance novels and we were almost kicked out of the bag because the "powers that be" didn't want condoms associated with the Emmy's... We have a long way to go in bridging a bit of reality in our fantasy... daytime TV hasn't had the guts to do it yet... Maybe Romance Novels can lead the charge!! xo

2011-03-01T13:53:00.001-06:00

Throw Me Somethin' Mister!!

2011-03-01T08:17:00.000-06:00

I live in the heart of Mardi Gras and was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to ride on one of the floats this past weekend. We threw beads and stuffed animals into a fun wanting crowd and it made me think...there's a certain element of "power" in the brief moment you are giving a small something to a few people in a crowd that went to great lengths to be in the best place they could be to receive these small trinkets.
I can relate this feeling on a small level to the many senators and why they have such a hard time cutting anything out of the budget since they have constituents in their home states or districts, waiting for their small trinkets.
Of course we told friends what float we would be on, what side of the float, and they in turn told us exactly where they would be standing on the route so we would be prepared with armfuls of the best beads just for them... but there was also plenty to evenly throw to the rest of the crowd...
In these times of struggle that we all find ourselves in, there is a collective request for people to make sacrifices, spend less, save more, so that we can all get through this tough economic environment... but somehow there are politicians who hold on to their armfuls of loot just for their buddies while neglecting the rest of the crowd...
When you have senators and government officials telling their friends where exactly to stand on their parade route so they can throw them armfuls of no-bid contracts, and pet projects, it becomes exceedingly frustrating for the rest of the crowd who get next to nothing and who would simply be happy with the basics; better schools for our kids, and the right to collective bargaining to maintain a living wage.
So even though at the end of the day we are all well aware that you are going to throw your friends a few more special items than the strangers in the crowd, let the beads fly to everyone else too so we can feel as if you are actually in office to make your whole state and country a better place where people can feel they get something from the effort they are putting forth.

Mob-Mentality and the Blame Game

2011-02-24T09:17:00.000-06:00

I am troubled by the news lately... while I'm all for smaller government and limited spending, I always find it interesting that the first cuts initialized are the programs for health and education. While I agree there are issues with both (there are issues with any large programs) these are basic needs that need to be met in this country for us to succeed. We need healthy, educated people to create a strong nation. I also find it interesting that people are screaming for a smaller government except when it comes to abortion rights. These are the same people who believe that patients should be able to deal directly with their doctors and be treated accordingly without insurance and government butting in... except for abortions. Ms Bachmann speaks about abortions as if they are convenient drive through procedures that take place on a whim. She is insane.
Don't fool yourselves, we pay no matter what. When it comes to abortions by choice, we need to look further than the procedure itself. What is lacking on the path to this procedure? Education? self-esteem? Better adoption services? Who are the people we can reach before they get to this very dramatic and devastating result? We need to reach out our hands to these people and stop pointing fingers. We won't reach them all but we should be ashamed of ourselves if we don't try something other than making it illegal and throwing people in jail. That helps no one.
This is a billboard currently in New York... I understand it is trying to make a bold statement to start a "conversation", but I am afraid that all it will start is mob-mentality induced blame game. We are better than this and can do better by our countrymen. If you are passionate about making abortion illegal, what have you done to make it unnecessary?

World AIDS Day 2010

2010-09-02T17:05:00.000-05:00

World AIDS Day 2010 is of course December 1st of every year... it is a time to reflect on the progress we have made and the long road ahead of us. Until there is a cure, prevention is paramount. We are all responsible for our own actions, our own sexual health... if you choose to have sex, and you aren't 100% sure of your status or your partner's, you owe it to yourself to use a condom and lessen the chance of contracting HIV or STD's... Love yourself enough.

Win a Just In Case Condom Compact!!

2010-08-31T13:21:00.000-05:00

Thank you Swa-Rai Fashion and Lifestyle Blog for such a great review and post!!! Enter her contest to win a compact!
Love Well. Love Wisely.

Robots Need To Carry Condoms Too!

2010-08-21T09:43:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I just love the internet... thank you to my friend Lisa who introduced me to this great site where you can create your own movies... so of course I had to make one about Just In Case Compacts!!!
Have a gander...
Robots Need To Carry Condoms Too!

The Big Bad Media and the Power of Trend

2010-06-08T19:23:00.000-05:00

Having 2 younger children I am constantly aware of the images they are subjected to on TV, in magazines, online etc. That awareness never leaves me even when I am not in “protection mode”.

The irony is never lost on me however, that we can advertise seduction at nauseating rates, yet condom ads aren’t allowed… Viagra is advertised during prime time and Guardasil is advertised as cervical cancer prevention rather than HPV prevention- a sexually transmitted disease that can cause cancer…even now I am tempted to get out my soap box… but I won’t.

Rather I will turn to the audience… the media feeds its audience what it wants. If the advertising didn’t work, and people stopped buying their products because they were all so offended by the images, media would change. But America has a voracious appetite for garbage; we are obese, broke, and dumber than we prefer to think.

We buy into the hype that a bra will make you look and feel like the models wearing the “Nakeds”, eating the giant hamburger with ketchup dripping down your chest will result in your looking like Paris Hilton (I’m sure the 50 grams of fat don’t really exist in those burgers) and that using Just For Men hair gel on your beard will get you laid by someone 15 years your junior instantaneously.

So how do we sneak in the “vegetables” with the Mac N Cheese Media?
Hide it in trend.

I bought this great cookbook for my finicky kids who weren’t eating enough vegetables… you sneak the veggies into their food by pureeing them and cooking it into the stuff they love. They never see that cauliflower coming.

So instead of the serious talks about STDs and HIV, how devastating they can be to your life, and how easily they are spread, we will wrap prevention in a cute little compact, make it cool to carry and the thing you MUST have.

So put on your “Nakeds”, grab your Just In Case compact (I bet you can fit a little blue pill in there too) find that guy at the sports bar with his “Just For Men” beard that will instantly turn you on, and head out for a triple hamburger dripping in ketchup and special sauce. I’m sure it will be the greatest night of your life…

Getting people to carry condoms is half the battle, getting people to use them correctly is the other half… We will do our part by making it chic to carry a condom in a trendy compact; the rest is up to you, my voracious audience. I hope you don’t taste the veggies… but enjoy the whole meal.

Dentyne, Condom, Dentyne, Condom

2010-03-12T09:46:00.000-06:00

Let me start out by saying I enjoyed the new Dentyne commercial; very creative, very funny, yet completely annoying because it shows the hypocrisy not only of the American consumer but of the entertainment and television industry.
As Americans we buy everything because it will make us thinner, younger, sexier… and apparently it’s just so we can admire ourselves in the mirror and NOT to attract a partner and have sex. Apparently it’s all about the tease and not the end game of the actual carrot that is endlessly dangled in front of everyone.
So if you haven’t seen the Dentyne commercial, basically there are about three scenarios where they are talking about the gum but insinuating that it is like a condom. For example, the guy is at the drug store, lays the Dentyne on the counter, the cashier (woman) gives him the knowing glance that he’s preparing for a fun evening, he looks embarrassed since he’s buying this in front of a woman and he walks out with his “gum”. Then the roommate pops into the other roommate's bedroom saying "Dude, do you have anything?" He reaches into his bedside table and pulls out...Dentyne.

Yes this is funny, but annoying. Since it’s gum it’s ok. But if that were an actual condom ALL HELL WOULD BREAK LOOSE. Right? Which is why condom ads aren't allowed on TV... or only allowed in this round-about way, since the American public would fall over dead if they saw an actual condom and not just the insinuation. What a joke.

America, GET OVER YOUR COLLECTIVE SELF!!!

We are sexual beings; that’s why sex works in advertising. This is a no-brainer. Yet at the same time we are pious, judgmental fools who refuse to acknowledge the elephant in the room and get real about the importance of sex and the consequences of sex. Without opening your eyes to all of it, you cannot properly make the profound decision to give your body and all the emotions, chemical reactions, physical changes, and spiritual currency over to your partner.

As a VERY proud American, I’m waiting for my people to grow up, it will be thrilling when we are not the teenagers of the world anymore.

Love Well. Love Wisely.

What do you get when you cross politicians and condoms? Stupidity.

2010-01-16T09:36:00.000-06:00

Have you heard? Carrying too many condoms can contribute to a prostitution charge... way to go lawmakers! So glad we're paying you to create an even larger health hazard!
Read an article here...
So in the infinite wisdom of government they have decided that the best new way to identify prostitutes is by the quantity of condoms in their possession. Let's take this logic a little further... so when a prostitute goes out, in order to avoid that part of "sufficient cause" for arrest, she will leave her condoms at home and she and all the Johns will be even more vulnerable to STDs and HIV... the gifts that keep on giving. And in the city where the HIV rates are at an all time high, dissuading people from practicing safe sex is a GREAT idea! (shaking head while pulling hair out)
So to all you politicians in DC... and you know half your names are "John"... better bring your own condoms, but only two, otherwise the police will think you're a prostitute. Brilliant.
At least Just In Case will keep you within the limits of the law... we try to do our part.

2010

2010-01-04T16:35:00.000-06:00

What will you do this year to make someone else's life a little better? What will you do to better your own life that will better your family's life?
Not just a resolution... but the action to create change. What will it be?

The Lessons From Tiger

2009-12-09T10:57:00.000-06:00

So we have all heard about Tiger Wood's many trysts... if you haven't you have been under a rock since his story trumped Pearl Harbor and Health Care Debates... US Weekly is even writing stories about Tiger not using condoms...

He has placed a bright light on the biggest dilemma when it comes to women protecting themselves... It is one thing to have your heart broken by a cheating spouse, but to also contract an STD or HIV is devastating. There are many women out there who have done nothing wrong and yet are forced to suffer some major health consequences from their husband's infidelities.

Condom use is a no-brainer when you're dating, and you don't know your partner's medical history... but what if you are in a long-term, committed relationship, marriage and you thought you knew about their health? What if you are going through a rough time, or your partner/spouse travels extensively for business? How do women protect themselves from someone else's lapse of judgment? There is no perfect answer... but what would you do in Elin's place? What do you do if you have a gut feeling that your partner/spouse is cheating on you and may not be using protection?

Feel free to comment...

Love Well. Love Wisely.

12-1 is World AIDS Day... we're here to remind you...BYOC... Bring Your Own Condom!

2009-11-30T12:59:00.000-06:00

JUST IN CASE ® HOSTS WORLD AIDS DAY WEB CHAT VIA UStream. URGES WOMEN TO ADOPT “BRING YOUR OWN CONDOM” (BYOC) POLICY
Free Condom Compacts to First 10 Attendees Who Text Question During Web Chat

11.22.2009 – Los Angeles, CA – JUST IN CASE® (www.justincaseinc.com)- designers of the tres-chic condom storing intimacy compacts – are hosting a World AIDS Day Web chat urging women to “BYOC”: Bring Your Own Condom. JUST IN CASE compacts look like your favorite makeup compact but have a secret compartment to carry condoms.

Marsha Bartenetti and Rachael Sudul, the mother-daughter team behind Just in Case, Inc. (JIC) will bring their message of personal responsibility to women live via USTREAM on World AIDS Day, 12.1.09. Viewers are invited to log on to www.ustream.tv/justincaseinc at 9am PST/Noon EST to learn more about the realities of protecting one's self, acquire resources supplied by the World AIDS Campaign, and the chance to win a FREE chic compact of her own by submitting a text question or comment via UStream's chat feature.

Bartenetti, who will host the “BYOC” chat says, “There’s a new face of HIV/AIDS that women are hesitant to talk about: suburban women, young women, your next door neighbor. While there have been many advances with respect to HIV/AIDS treatment there is still no cure. The best protection is still a condom.”

Sudul adds, “It’s time to change the conversation and remove the stigma women feel around carrying condoms. This is not about encouraging promiscuity but empowering women to take responsibility for their own health and welfare. We want to facilitate that discussion and help women to take control of their lives.”

JIC is engaging women in the safe sex conversation everyday via its Blog, Facebook page, and Twitter. Join them and share what makes YOU sexy smart. Post your thoughts on their Facebook wall (www.facebook.com/justincaseinc), then start the conversation with two friends by asking: What’s in YOUR purse!®

View the full collection of JUST IN CASE styles and pricing at www.JustInCaseInc.com.

About Just in Case, Inc.: Founded in 2005 by mother-daughter team Marsha Bartenetti, who has years of experience in the entertainment industry, and Rachael Sudul, who has extensive experience in the cosmetics industry, Just in Case, Inc. is the leader in providing discreet intimacy compacts stylish enough for every woman’s purse. Winners of a HBA International Design Award for Originality, their revolutionary product re-defined the face of beauty to include sexual health. Their values adhere to the highest ethical standards while providing quality products and a message of hope. 5% of profits go to HIV/AIDS & women’s health charities worldwide. The following are registered trademarks of Just in Case, Inc.: JUST IN CASE® Love Well.Love Wisely.® Protection Never Had Such Style.® Sexy.Smart.® What's in YOUR purse?®

World AIDS Day

2009-11-09T09:51:00.000-06:00

World AIDS day is approaching and I wonder what the general knowledge is about HIV and AIDS... we have been aware of this virus since the 80's but I don't think that people have educated themselves very well about the virus. It's always been one of those illnesses that people think... "I'll never get that, I'm monogamous" or "I'll never get that I have only had a few partners." The problem is that with the rate of infection in the US, "risky behavior" has broadened it's meaning and includes unprotected sex with a partner that hasn't been tested.

Here is a link to the CDC with some great information on HIV basics.
CDC HIV Facts

Throughout the next few months I will try to find other links with basic information about HIV.
If you don't know your status or your partner's, protection is paramount. You can't tell if someone has been infected by how they look, and an infected person may not even have symptoms for months and be highly contagious.
Be smart, be sexy, be safe. Carry your own protection.
For a limited time the Classic Compacts are $19.95!
Love Well. Love Wisely.

Essence Magazine!!

2009-08-26T20:12:00.001-05:00

We are thrilled about our being featured in Essence Magazine this month!! Take a look! When you flip through the magazine we're on pg 96...

We're also starting a conversation... the NEW Classic Converations gift bag includes a Rendez-Vous Red Classic Compact and a deck of Seversations Cards!! 52 cards to incite a healthy discussion about sex and sexual health... thought provoking questions that will help you discover your thoughts, experiences, beliefs and values. Only $29.95!! (Actual color of gift bag may vary)

The Sexversation Cards are the brain child of a dynamic duo of women who are empowering other young women to be smart, strong, and to help put an end to sexual violence... check out their story and if they will be visiting a campus near you!
KellyAndBecca

Hope your Summer was filled with fun... and... as always...
Love Well. Love Wisely.

Teen Vogue

2009-06-25T09:40:00.000-05:00

Well... we were told no... and as an only child, it is a word I tend not to listen to or ever like to hear.

We wanted to advertise in Teen Vogue and the editors told us no... not very surprising I guess, but completely frustrating and indicative of the uphill battle we have with the public message about sex and sexuality to teens and young adults.

Calvin Klein can put up a billboard in New York city showing a young girl topless having a Foursome (we've moved beyond a menage a trois apparently) to advertise jeans to our teens and young adults... can you even see the jeans? Then we turn around to the same audience of the foursome and say..."wait til your married" and "abstinence is best" and wonder why it isn't very effective... REALITY CHECK PLEASE!

I am thrilled, however, that this has stirred a conversation and I have had the absolute pleasure of meeting Shawn Decker on Twitter... he wrote about my having to hear the word "no" in his blog for Poz...

So the conversation continues and I guess that is the purpose... just wish we could've advertised for back to school! Because if that's what Calvin Klein jeans do for your social life, you will definitely be needing a few condoms...

Remember, this Saturday is National HIV Testing Day... know your status... know your partner's status... if you don't know FOR SURE, use a condom...

Love Well. Love Wisely.

New Website!

2009-06-24T08:42:00.000-05:00

Good Morning and please take a look at the new JIC site!
www.JustInCaseInc.com
We will be working out the bugs for a bit I'm sure but we have streamlined to better serve our customers... use the code LOVEWELL for a discount on your order and let us know about your shopping experience!
Please use the comment box below to write a review, good or bad and you will be put into a drawing for a JIC gift basket!
Thank you all for your continued support and we look forward to hearing your opinions!
Best
Rachael

2009-04-29T12:50:00.000-05:00

We have been so honored to be recognized in some great blogs... here's one of them now!! Direct from the GlamourWhore herself!

Tuesday, April 28, 2009
~Just In Case...~ http://www.justincaseinc.com/

Ok, no more excuses!! That's right, you no longer have any excuse not to take charge and be in control...of your sex life!! You read it right. Yes, normally Glamour Whore is where you read about the latest beauty products, jewelry, fashion and all that glitters...well today that list includes SAFE SEX. Yup. Look, there is nothing sexier or more glamorous than a woman in control. It is 2009, and I still have friends who are embarrassed to buy, let alone carry condoms. I will even admit to blushing while purchasing the oh so necessary "latex accessories" (Glamour Whore's lingo for condom). However, thanks to a fabulous company called "Just In Case", I'm actually anxious to go out and make an illicit purchase... Yup, I said it, I wanna pick up some latex accessories to put in my GORGEOUS lil condom case. "Just In Case" makes the most darling lil condom cases, so chic you will be running to CVS just to have a reason to carry one. So discreet no one will ever know, but you'll wanna tell because you will be dying to show all of your girlfriends that even your birth control/protection is trendy and fashion forward. Take a look...
http://www.justincaseinc.com/

My favorite is the "Classic Bling"

Kisses Bitches...
Glamour Whore xoxo

April is STD Awareness Month!!

2009-04-01T20:51:00.001-05:00

Happy April!! Spring has sprung... there's an energy in the air that is exhilarating... so that must be why they call it Spring Fever. Well, just remember your protection...
Condoms are a very effective means of birth control and barrier to STDs and HIV when used correctly. What do I mean "used correctly"? Yes, there is a very specific way to put on a condom... we supply two Lifestyle condoms in our compacts and Lifestyles supplied us with this very detailed How To guide...
http://www.justincaseinc.com/news/news.asp?id=condom

Get tested and know your status... if you don't know your status, use a condom... if you don't know your partner's status, use a condom... and always...
Love Well. Love Wisely.

Follow us on Twitter!! @justincaseinc
Use the code TWEET during checkout for a discount!! www.JustInCaseInc.com

WARNING!! I'm talking about the Pope...

2009-04-01T20:12:00.000-05:00

Before you read this, know that I am not writing to challenge or judge one faith or another. I respect religion, spirituality, wherever someone might be on that path, and the people who want nothing to do with that path. We are all here to learn from each other with mutual respect and civility...

When the Pope made his comment about condoms not being effective and exacerbating the spread of HIV in Africa, my reaction was frustration and anger. Now that I've had a while to calm down about it I would like to put a few ideas out there...

I get where he's coming from... we are all familiar with the message from the Catholic church about abstinence, monogamy, and chastity. It is behavior that is perfect and something we can choose to strive for. But instead of demonizing condoms, I wish they would focus on behavior. Scaring people with statistics and false information about prevention doesn't change the sin. According to the Dogma, the sin itself is committed whether you use a condom or not, catch a disease or not. So shouldn't they focus on the behavior of their parishioners, discovering why they would stray from abstinence or monogamy with a spouse and address those issues? Just as the death penalty doesn't prevent murder, dire statistics will not change human behavior that has been a part of the human existence since the dawn of time.

So I say to the Pope, we all understand the Catholic dogma and respect it... please lead your people to a righteous path, but do not litter it with barricades to scare your people to remain on that path. The path you lay before them should be enough... when people stray, call them back without the threat of statistics and bent truths about the effectiveness of condoms... call them back with the fulfillment of their faith, and the glory that God has to offer all the people that follow you with intention and action.

What I hope is that everyone, regardless of any religious affiliations, takes responsibility for their health when making plans or passionate quick decisions... know what you require... before you require it! Just because people look healthy doesn't mean they are... know your status, know your partner's status, and if you have any doubts, use a condom. Love Well. Love Wisely.

2009-03-04T09:32:00.000-06:00

This is my "Dream Assignment" through Lenovo and Microsoft... the winner receives 50k for a photography assignment...

Click here to vote... http://www.nameyourdreamassignment.com/the-ideas/rachaelsudul/the-new-face-of-aids-in-america/

The New Face of AIDS in America

I want to capture the new face of AIDS in America; it is beautiful, heartbroken, strong, defiant, frustrated, and she is a woman. AIDS is not secluded to third world countries, we are living with it here and we need to recognize it's face.

I want to travel across this vast country of ours and give attention to the beautiful women here who have been afflicted with HIV/AIDS. We are a very generous country when it comes to giving to other countries, but we have to look in our own backyards with love and compassion to start a conversation about how we can prevent the further spread and the treatment of this disease here in America.
HIV is the number one cause of death for young Black women in the US... our health care system isn't helping... I want to shine a gentle compassionate light on all women with HIV/AIDS here in America to tell their "normal" yet extraordinary stories of life with the disease and how their world has been changed by it. They are mothers, daughters, wives, girlfriends, and they are creating their lives in spite of, and because of this disease... a photographic essay of determination, struggle, failure, and success.
If we normalize the conversation about AIDS, we can bring it out of the shadows and into the light to do something about it. It's difficult to solve this issue in other countries when we can't even talk about the problem we have here...
AIDS does not discriminate... there will be a face of AIDS in every state of our nation... they need to be seen, and they need to be loved. It's harder to judge and point fingers when you have a real person in front of you...

Thank you, Bristol.

2009-02-18T16:15:00.000-06:00

Bristol Palin is our collective daughter. She speaks out – even with the support of family, influence, and money to afford this pregnancy to shed light on the realities of teen behavior- that teens won’t stop having sex just because they are taught abstinence.

She is also unlike many young teens who simply cannot afford the care of a child or is forced to raise her child alone. And because of the choice to have unprotected sex, another child is added to the families living below the poverty level in this great country.

We need to help our daughters - they are in trouble and no one seems to be listening

We also need to SEE and HEAR from young women who have contracted the HIV/AIDS virus – or someone who has contracted an STD like Herpes – the sense of betrayal – the loss of trust and hope.

Let’s put a FACE on these issues as Bristol Palin has so bravely done, and continue the conversation – and also put the real face of a teen that doesn’t have the financial means or the support of her family.

Here is an example of a letter we received recently. It is like many others we receive, which tells us - It’s time.

“I am currently living in student housing for a private college. One of the things my school doesn't have that several of my previous colleges have had is a student union and place where students can discretely get items like condoms. A few years ago a good friend of mine learned that she was infected with HIV, she was 16. She didn't know how to properly protect herself and she thought just being on birth control was enough. Anyways, since then I have been passionate about making sure people at least know the very basics of protecting themselves. In my research for a class speech I will be giving on HIV/AIDS, I found your website. I think its an absolutely fabulous idea you have and have already worked your site in my speech as well as purchased a compact for myself.”

Thank you, Bristol. Now let's keep the conversation going.

Just In Case featured on daytime talk show THE DOCTORS!!

2009-01-12T09:05:00.000-06:00

JUST IN CASE® Intimacy compacts take center stage on the new hit Syndicated Daytime Talk Show - THE DOCTORS.

A Stage 29 LLC production, The Doctors, stars four renowned physicians with different medical specialties – ER physician (and former ABC “Bachelor”) Dr. Travis Stork; OB/GYN Lisa Masterson; cosmetic surgeon Dr. Andrew Ordon and pediatrician Dr. Jim Sears. This groundbreaking new talk show does for health care what Dr. Phil has done for psychology – provides frank discussions in a fascinating, off-the-cuff manner. Expect these medical experts to weigh in on compelling guest issues and dispense valuable information about health topics du jour.

On Tuesday, January 13^th the subject is SEX - and no part of this subject is off limits.

JUST IN CASE® Intimacy compacts are being featured on the show as the perfect solution to carry and store condoms safely and with style.

SEX – It sells. It is controversial. Yet it is of vital importance in our lives and relationships. So what is the message about SEX this go ‘round?

SEX can enhance your relationship – and there are companies out there helping couples to find the joy of sex again – but one element that stands out in the message of having sex and staying healthy is: SAFETY first.

The Mother//Daughter founders of Just In Case, Inc., Marsha Bartenetti and Rachael Sudul, were on the show to talk about their unique product and mission that addresses this very issue. “The condom is a woman’s product, and we are a business founded by women – with a product that finally addresses the needs of women in the area of sexual health.” says Sudul.

JUST IN CASE® compacts are the first way for women to carry protection with a woman’s requirement for style in mind. It is a chic little compact with a mirror and hidden compartment to carry condoms. “We believe that our product will re-define personal care to include sexual health”, says Bartenetti. “And it’s about time.” It’s also a great way to open up a dialog between mother and daughter about staying safe.”

“All the information out there about the consequences of having unprotected sex – (In fact the CDC recently released a study declaring that 1 in 4 teens has an STD Sexually Transmitted Disease) hasn’t seemed to change the behavior of sexually active teens or adults– The statistics are alarming and women are in trouble. Information alone is not enough to change behavior. We believe that trends do change behavior - and this trend just might save a life,” says Bartenetti.

“It was our mission in starting our company to create a product – an accessory - that women would be proud to carry in their purses – and empower them to carry protection, adds Sudul. “Remember – women love the Pretty – and to be in style is paramount. Not to mention the privacy factor. Just like the scene in Sex in The City when Carrie drops her purse and condoms come flying out – right in front of Mr. Big! She was totally embarrassed. If only she had had a JUST IN CASE® compact.

And to be safe…well, that speaks for itself. At the end of the day – we are all responsible for our own bodies – our own health. And when you’re finished with the condom stage of your relationship the JIC compact also makes a perfect pill box.”

“We are having the time of our lives creating beautiful products for women to keep them safe. Look for new designs in 2009, adds Bartenetti.

Check for local listings of The Doctors on: www.thedoctorstv.com

Happy New Year!!

2009-01-10T16:13:00.001-06:00

Well it's been quite a year so far and we're only 10 days into it! I haven't written in a while and as one of my resolutions, I hope to allow myself more time to write about what's going on...
So since my last post, we voted in a new administration, watched our collective 401ks spiral down to the point that I don't even read my statements anymore, and Walmart showed ALOT more profit during Christmas than Neiman Marcus... It will be interesting and inspiring to watch a national priority shift to hopefully live within our means in every aspect of life not just financially... what is your emotional budget? What is your physical budget? What is your spiritual budget? What is your health budget? We can't afford to be unconscious with any of our budgets... fill your heart with joy, share it with others, keep yourself healthy and protected... Love Well. Love Wisely.

Sarah Palin Supports Comprehensive Sex Ed?

2008-10-31T14:12:00.000-05:00

Am I seeing things?

I must say I am not a rag-mag buyer, but I do check in on the sites every once in a while to see what’s going on in Tinsel-Town… funny enough you can get political information there too.

I found an interview with Sarah Palin… I have to preface that I am not a big fan of hers. I am pro-choice and pro-women’s health freedoms so go figure, I don’t like her policies… or so I thought. Here’s an excerpt from the interview…

Has this changed how you talk about sex with your other children?
SP: I've always been a proponent of making sure kids understand – even in schools – they'd better take preventative measures so that they don't find themselves in these less than ideal circumstances. Perhaps Bristol could be a good example to other young women that life happens and preventative measures are, first and foremost, the option that should be considered –

Do you mean abstinence or contraception?
SP: Well, both. Ideally abstinence. But we have not been ones to say that students, should not know what preventive measures are all about. I've been taken aback by some criticism that mainstream media has thrown my way saying, Oh, what a hypocrite she is and she's now learned her lesson because she's been against sex education in the schools. And I'm like, when? Where? When have I ever said that there should be no sex education taught in our homes or even in our schools?

http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20235099_8,00.html

HUH?

Did I see that correctly? Does the woman the Republicans chose to appeal to the base actually believe in COMPREHENSIVE SEX EDUCATION?

Well, hallelujah! I little dose of reality! Somehow I think the knowledge about pregnancy and the diseases that are out there that you risk catching and the ways to prevent all of it including abstinence and condoms are vital to decreasing both the spread of disease and unwanted pregnancies ending up as abortions or unwanted children in the system…comprehensive sex education is a much better way to decrease these statistics than overturning Roe v Wade.

I hate to be hopeful and all but I can’t help it. Perhaps this is the crack in the glass… and out pours a real conversation about what we are all facing as a society. Time for a little reality check and some honesty…funny that we can find a little bit of that honesty in a gossip column!!

Early Holiday Discount From JUST IN CASE!!

2008-10-30T11:28:00.000-05:00

Macy's Passport Fashion Show in San Francisco

2008-09-26T16:04:00.000-05:00

Macy’s Passport San Francisco!

I have recently returned from the Macy’s Passport event in San Francisco… what a fantastic event!!

The first evening was Fashion Inform… teens from all over the Bay Area were invited to this event… the ticket price and transportation was provided by Macy’s and sponsors like Just In Case, Inc. This group of teens were treated to a phenomenal night of fashion and fun, and more importantly, educated about HIV/AIDS and how to prevent the disease. The behaviors that these teens adopt now, will more than likely determine the course of this disease here at home… through awareness and prevention, they have a chance of significantly reducing the rate of infections in the near future.
The health sponsor was Kaiser and they handed out JUST IN CASE compacts to the first few hundred teens that finished their information “obstacle course”. Of course they were a huge hit, and Kaiser really had a phenomenal set up to make the education part of the evening lots of fun.

The second evening was presented by American Express, and it was an evening geared towards the “Young Professional”… the food was fantastic, and the drinks were pouring! Just In Case was well represented by Peachy’s Puff Girls! Anyone unfamiliar with this group in San Francisco… let me fill you in… Peachy’s Puff girls are a standard at many SF night clubs; they are the cigarette girls with the mostest!! Their trays were filled with sizzling Rendez-Vous Red JUST IN CASE compacts and were distributed to most of the guests attending the event. The compacts were such a hit that they ran out about 30 minutes before the fashion show!!!
What a treat to stand back and observe the excitement and buzz the compacts generated with the guests!

The third evening was the SF Gala… what a fantastic event! San Francisco elite were there including the Mayor and the CEO of Macy's, enjoying the fabulous food, yummy Passion Fruit Skyy Vodka cocktails, and a craps table in the Calvin Klein area… we were very lucky and rolled the dice to win a Calvin Klein watch! Now I no longer have an excuse to be late… this is the night we decided to stay for the fashion show… Spectacular!
With designers like Tommy Hilfiger, and Christian Audigier for Ed Hardy, and celebs such as No Doubt’s drummer Adrian Young, and the ever fabulous Dame Edna, we were treated to some fun looks for Fall and a great show.
The highlight for me was an unknown… When she took the podium she was beautiful and composed, and I assumed she was someone with Macy’s… she was a young woman who spoke of her personal tragedy of being raped at 15 and infected with HIV by her offender. She spoke of her own tragedy and the courage she found through an organization called WORLD – Women Organized to Respond to Life threatening Diseases. She was an inspiration to the audience who applauded her every statement about the disease being preventable and that we need to focus on education and prevention. Comprehensive Sex Education!!! That’s the reason we were all there… the show was fun, but she brought the new, beautiful, heterosexual, FEMALE face to AIDS and HIV… all we need to do is listen, act, and teach.

This is an annual event and well worth the $85 - $2000 tickets… depending on the depths of your pockets! If you get a chance we hope to join you there next year…

As always, Love Well. Love Wisely.®

Bristol and Sarah Palin - Poster Family For Comprehensive Sex Education

2008-09-12T08:25:00.000-05:00

Perhaps the latest revelation of Sarah Palin’s 17 year old daughter’s pregnancy is a gift -A wake up call to come out of our collective coma on this hugely important subject… abstinence only programs do not work. Neither program will be 100% effective but a sex-ed program should offer ALL the facts. We need a comprehensive education program.

And given the recent report from the CDC that 1 in 4 teens has an STD – and the rising number of AIDS cases among women in the US – It’s time.

It is our mission (mom and me) to offer women a way to stay protected, confident, and discreet when we started our business Just in Case, Inc.

We believe that women are innately modest when it comes to intimate matters – and JIC gives them a beautiful way to stay protected.

Give your children ALL the information they need and offer them the behavior you would like them to follow… the rest is up to them.

For more information about the compacts, go to www.JustInCaseInc.com

Use the code LOVEWELL for a 10% discount on your order.

Choose the YouthAIDS Red Compact and 10% of the sale goes directly to YouthAIDS – a group dedicated to the fight against AIDS/HIV through education and protection

www.YouthAIDS.org

New Candidate To Vote For!!

2008-08-26T16:06:00.000-05:00

Rachael Sudul of www.JustInCaseInc.com running for president?

Condoms for everyone!! The most comprehensive health care plan out there...

Have fun with this one!!

Why We Do What We Do!!

2008-08-25T10:46:00.000-05:00

In the beginning of 2008, we asked everyone across the US to nominate the fabulous non-profit women's groups in their area to receive a case of JUST IN CASE compacts to use to empower their clients to protect themselves... one of the clinics that we received a HUGE amount of nominations for was the Central Iowa Family Planning Center... they won a case of JUST IN CASE compacts and here is the letter we received from them... this is the reason we do what we do...

Dear Rachael,
Just a note to thank you for the beautiful condom cases. I clearly delighted a group of very at risk high school girls the other day when after a not so promising conversation about healthy decisions, I brought out a few of the cases. They thought they were beautiful and wanted to know more about condoms.....the conversation took a positive turn. Today, I took two dozen to the Mitchellville Women's Correctional Facility. About every 12 weeks I do a program about STD/HIV and birth control for inmates who are preparing for release. They will receive the cases upon release when they get a few personal items to get started along with information about every Title X funded clinic in the state. Staff members were impressed that they were so pretty and functional.

I will look forward to hearing from you, and again, thank you such a great product and for making it available to us.

Most sincerely,

Kathy Dooley

Education Coordinator

Kathy Dooley
Central Iowa Family Planning Inc.
PO Box 1146
704 May Street
Marshalltown, IA 50158
Phone: 641-752-7159
Fax: 641-752-7177
www.cifp.org

Not you too!!

2008-08-16T20:21:00.000-05:00

John Edwards… not only betrayed his vows, but could have potentially put his wife’s delicate health at even more risk. What an ass.

Not that this is going to happen to everyone, but it shows it can happen to anyone.

What if this videographer (you can hardly call her a filmmaker) had an STD that she wasn’t even aware of? Edwards’ wife was in remission for her cancer at the time of the affair… as he reminded all of America during his pathetic confirmation of his ultimate act of narcissism… so her body was already exhausted from fighting her own cells… introduce an STD and she’s contending with possible cervical cancer to boot, along with a myriad of other problems.

So does this mean we should all wear condoms forever during a marriage or long term relationship?

No. Not out of fear, but it teaches us to pay attention and keep our eyes open…

Love Well. Love Wisely.

A Condom is the new Engagement Ring?

2008-08-07T12:14:00.000-05:00

To view the article below on the NPR site, click the following link:

http://www.npr.org/blogs/daydreaming/2008/07/sex_without_condoms_prompts_th.html

'Sex Without Condoms' Prompts Heated Debate

Thursday, as part of Day to Day's series "What's the New What," Pendarvis Harshaw, a teen who grew up in Oakland offers his own provocative take on the California relationship dream. "Sex without condoms is the new engagement ring," he suggested in an on-air essay. Among his friends and acquaintances, ditching the condoms for other forms of birth control like the pill, signifies taking monogamy to a new level; partners are required to trust each other completely at the risk of getting an STD. Given that few of his friends in their late teens are thinking much about marriage, this transforms a prophylactic into a relationship sign-post along the lines of an engagement ring.

When I read this, I wanted to scream. Our children are searching in the dark for love and finding Pandora’s Box. Sex without a condom is the new engagement ring? Are you serious? Guess the guys are getting off cheap since the most expensive condom is about a dollar!!! These kids need a lesson about serial monogamy… even though you think you are taking your relationship to the next level, and you are trusting your partner… do you trust all the partners they’ve been “monogamous” with in the past? And what does monogamy really mean to these kids… what’s the time limit? When does the timer go off to tell you that you can stop using a condom? Are you monogamous when you are exclusively dating for 2 weeks… 1 month? So let’s say you are monogamous with someone for 1 month… and you are at that magic level of trust to not use a condom… then you break up and you start to date someone else exclusively… for 2 weeks… for 4 weeks… you’re now a serial monogamist!!!

It’s high school people!! The concept of Time for kids is completely different than ours as adults. I look at my husband and say I can’t believe we’ve been together for 9 years it seems much shorter than that! Kids say… I have to wait a WHOLE HOUR before I can have that? So they’re idea of a “long-term” relationship is totally skewed. They’ve only been on the planet for 16 years, and have only had raging hormones for 5 years, how long-term can it be?

Where is the responsibility aspect of a sexual relationship and why aren’t we all talking about ALL of these things with our kids? An Abstinence Only education is ridiculous; we need to have a well rounded education process and parents need to clue in by talking to their kids. I’m yelling from this soap box… CAN ANYONE HEAR ME?????? :)

Love Well. Love Wisely.

Just In Case T Shirts are now Available!

2008-07-30T13:57:00.000-05:00

Check out our fabulous T-Shirts!!
There are a number of styles to choose from and most feature Miss Justine Case on the back!

www.CafePress.com/JustInCaseInc

Spread the word not the disease!

Love Well. Love Wisely.

YouthAIDS Student Ambassador

2008-07-26T23:36:00.000-05:00

YouthAIDS has a fabulous student outreach program and we are proud partners with them! If you are a student or have kids who are students, they can log on to the YouthAIDS site and learn how to raise awareness of prevention and education in their community...
http://projects.psi.org/site/PageServer?pagename=S...

With 1 in 4 young women being infected with an STD, and AIDS being the leading cause of death for young African American women in THIS country, it is time to start the conversation.

We have been focusing our efforts in 3rd world countries because we can't seem to think that this effects our country as well. AIDS and STDs do not discriminate... they see us all as an equal opportunity... let's change that and start talking... intimacy goes beyond taking your clothes off... talk to your partner about your health, get tested, use protection.

Love Well. Love Wisely.

Let's Talk About Condoms!!!

2008-07-21T13:51:00.000-05:00

Ahhhh the condom. Mention it and you can clear a room faster than yelling “FIRE!”

So what do we all have against this poor little piece of latex?

Well, it can be an awkward addition to a passionate event… sort of the third party of a love triangle you don’t want to deal with. But practically speaking, the condom should always be with you.

Women should listen intently to this… the condom is a WOMAN’S product! The condom is a very effective means of contraception, and helps to protect against Sexually Transmitted Diseases, including HIV. Women are at higher risk for most of these infections than men, simply because of the way we are designed… some 300,000 American women have HIV or AIDS alone, and there is a new diagnosis about every 30 minutes… by age 50 at least 80% of women will have acquired genital HPV infection… if the condom is there for contraception and to alleviate some of the spread of these viruses why aren’t more women carrying them?

It’s taken quite a bit of time to get to the point where women can take birth control without much social consequence. Now it’s the condom’s turn…to wait a little longer… if a woman carries a condom it places a stigma on her and conjures so many questions … why does she need to carry condoms? Is she looking for sex? Is she easy? A woman’s answers to these questions are her own, and no one else’s business unless she invites someone into her business. So while we all do our part to shift the stigma away from a woman taking care of herself, we can make carrying condoms a bit more discreet and a lot less embarrassing… There are so many products out there to alleviate this issue.

You can carry them in a luxurious condom compact, called Just In Case… looks like a make up compact, but has a secret compartment for two condoms. You can even open the compact and use the mirror without giving away your secret stash! www.JustInCaseInc.com

If you want to keep them near your bedside, take a look at the Devine Condom Cube. A cute little leather cube with a magnetic closure that will hold your condoms with a little more design flair than the box they originally came in. www.RomanticGifts.com

Hate the packaging of the condom itself? Check out ONE brand condoms; a new brand with a designer flair. At first glance you may not even know what it is with it’s new round packaging and avant-garde graphics. www.JIC2compact.com

We need to shift the paradigm for women carrying condoms. The new reason to carry a condom is self respect. The new reaction to women carrying condoms must be positive. There is nothing sexier and more attractive than a woman who takes care of herself in every aspect of life. A woman who gives herself the gift of self-respect and self-love, will require that from her partner, and that woman’s partner will return the gift by honoring her request for protection. It’s a dance, when we’re unsure, we step on each others toes. When we know the steps, and follow the music, it can be the most beautiful time in your life. Keep it beautiful, keep yourself protected.

GOOD Magazine Block Party in San Francisco- JUST IN CASE to feature YouthAIDS Red Compact

2008-07-15T22:42:00.000-05:00

If any of you are in the San Francisco Bay Area, I would like to invite you to attend a fantastic block party benefiting some great charities!
Here's the invite:
Enjoy a fabulous magazine, and party with us on Sun 7/20 and come celebrate the best of San Francisco.

GOOD Magazine is for people who give a damn. When you subscribe for $20 and choose YouthAIDS, you get:

(1) One year of GOOD Magazine (Nominated for two National Magazine Awards in its first year) (2) Entry to all GOOD parties & free drinks (Upcoming block parties in San Fran, Chicago, Portland, Seattle, and Boston, and other events all the time)
(3) Plus, we give 100% of your $20 to YouthAIDS! (It's like making a donation and getting sweet stuff at the same time)

See attached invite for more details. To RSVP: http://www.GOODmagazine.com/events/sf08

------------------------------------------------------------

GOOD. Block Party. Drinks. Music. Food.

Join GOOD at the 111 Minna Gallery for the 2nd Annual Block Party, an explosion of booth vendors, an outdoor stage and a unique combination of San Francisco's best!

Amazing Performances by DJ Franki Chan, The Morning Benders, The Mumlers, DJ Vin Sol and more to be announced.

Visit the Just In Case/YouthAIDS Booth... YouthAIDS Red compacts will be sold for $20 during the event and $5.00 of the profits will be donated to YouthAIDS!

All ages welcome, but the inside of the 111 Minna Gallery will be restricted to 21+ (block party is part indoor, part outdoor).
FREE LIVE T-SHIRT SCREENPRINTING BY Hit+Run

RIDE YOUR BIKE: Bike valet will be provided by SF Bike Coalition

BRING YOUR OLD CELL PHONES, PAGERS & PDAS: Recycle stations will be available

2008-06-27T21:21:00.001-05:00

No Sex Contract

2008-06-27T17:54:00.000-05:00

So I keep reading about all these teens taking abstinence only sex-ed classes (how is that considered "sex-ed"... seems to me that there is no need for a long class... DON"T DO IT. Dismissed! I mean what do they actually teach? All the things not considered sex?)
I've also been hearing about these contracts that they are signing pledging to be virgins until they're married. Since we are all so patient and so good at waiting for things to be right, they are probably going to get married around twenty which I don't think is a good idea either. This is like the "pill" we can give our kids to keep them from having sex. If we have them sign a contract they won't do it... are you kidding me? Of course there will be some people who will wait it out and remain true to that contract, but on average I doubt it. Not that I have huge doubt in our youth, quite the contrary. I believe if we arm them with the truth of what's out there and why it is worth the wait or if you're ready why it's worth using a condom that most will make very smart decisions.
When I think about them signing this contract I think about the things I try to "contract" myself to do... and how I then obsess about what I'm not supposed to do. I won't eat those carbs... then suddenly I'm surrounded by baguette and cheese... what is a girl to do?!
And especially in today's media... you sign this contract not to have sex yet everywhere you turn it's being shoved down your throat! Especially for that age group... Abercrombie, Victoria's Secret, billboards selling jeans showing only naked people... where are the jeans I'm supposed to buy?
So what is the answer... I think what we have to come to realize is that there isn't one answer but a constant stream of answers that will mold and change for each child. The schools should be teaching the facts of everything. There shouldn't be a question that should go unanswered in a class... then with a parents expectations, love, and guidance, our youth can use the knowledge to make emotional, moral, and physical choices that will effect them for the rest of their lives.
What we're doing now isn't working... let's change it up a bit. Our kids are counting on us.
Love Well. Love Wisely.

The New Face of AIDS

2006-11-19T15:09:00.000-06:00

Have you seen the new face of AIDS? She's beautiful, she's young, and she's dying. The condom needs to become your new best friend if you are sexually active. No more excuses, no more reasons that you shouldn't use one, he will love you even if you insist, and if he doesn't... it wasn't really love to begin with.
We all realize condoms are ugly, they're a pain, and they slow you down for just a bit... but let's face it, AIDS and STD's are even uglier, more painful, and can slow you down to a dead halt.
So make condoms a norm! If you want, you can put them in a cute compact and keep them in your purse "Just In Case"! Check out www.JustInCaseInc.com
Nothing like introducing your condom to your lover in chic compact. Take charge of yourselves, ladies. When you empower yourself in one aspect of your life it spills over into many aspects. Self-respect and self-love are some of the sexiest qualities in a woman. Demand the respect of yourself, and require it from your partners. It just may save your life.