The Female Fighter

AWSDA Symposium

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 22:28:00 +0000

Hey Ladies,
Its been pretty busy around her with our daughter, work and life in general!
I wanted to post the information for the AWSDA Symposium this year. If you are really serious about Woman's Self Defense, this is for you! I have been before and it is life changing. AWSDA is the Association for Women's Self Defense Advancement. They are an organization of law enforcement, martial artists and self defense instructors who provide education to women globally.
They also syndicate my blog, so they are pretty awesome!
Here are the details:

2011 Training Symposium!

The AWSDA Training Symposium is in Newtown, PA (Near Philadelphia) on November 4-6th 2011! What is a Training Symposium you ask? Symposiums are less formal than conferences, meaning lower costs, yet, jammed packed with 3 days of training! Need instructor certification? We got it! In a rut and want some new self defense material to incorporate into your classes? We got it! Want weapons defense training? Well... we got that too! Additional classes are being added as we speak, including the dynamic fast paced and realistic world of Mock Assailant Training and a shooting range for gun practice! For those who are looking into adding these trainings into your program, or to learn them for yourself please do not miss this opportunity!

When:

November 4th Instructor Certification 1-8PM Cost $175

November 5th All Day Self Defense Courses 7PM -10PM Cost $75

Networking event! (includes dinner, raffle,awards, and guest speakers)

November 6th Shooting Range 10-2 PM Cost $75

Friday Sat Sun Total for all 3 days Cost $325

Early bird registrationfor the 3 day package!

Aug - $250, Sept - $275, Oct - $300

Hotel accomodations for AWSDA members are walking distance from our facility.

Homewood Suites by Hilton -- Newtown

110 Pheasant Run

Newtown, PA 18940

For reservations you can call or check out their web site. Prices are discounted for AWSDA Members. So please mention the event you are attending when you reserve.

Direct Line: 215-550-8367

Fax: 215-860-5070

Women's Self Defense Class Fundraiser for LLS!

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 20:09:00 +0000

Hi Everyone!

I am holding a fundraiser to help me reach my goal for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society! We will be teaching a class in Los Angeles* on Sunday May 1st, from 1:30 to 4:00pm.

Many of my students have asked me when we were going to teach a community class, well here it is! Space is limited and I only have 18 spots left.

This is a full contact self defense class! Women will learn the physical and mental techniques to win a life and death confrontation against a determined attacker who is bigger, stronger and faster. Class will cover escapes from grabs, chokes, holds, offensive defense, how to escape from being pinned to the ground or in bed, and improvised weapons. Through physical and mental role-play participants will learn how to exploit the attacker’s hold on them and use it for their advantage when in this scary situation.

For women only. Ages 13 and up.

If you are interested, please email me at anni@protectys.com to reserve a space in the class!

**The actual location of the class will be given to registered participants as it is private property.

Fearless.

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Sun, 27 Mar 2011 06:28:00 +0000

Today is a sad day. After a 12 year fight, Geraldine Ferraro succumbed to blood cancer.

She has always been a hero of mine. Amongst many things, she worked hard for equality for women and the first female candidate to run for vice-president.

I began running with Team In Training about 5 weeks ago. I admit, I am a big worrier. I worry about not being able to get enough mileage in during the week. I worry about finishing the race. And I worry about being able to raise enough funds to reach my minimum.

But I realized, worry does nothing except for make you anxious and uncomfortable.

Ms. Ferraro battled blood cancer for 12 years. But that didn’t stop her from being an ambassador for woman's rights until her death. She didn’t let "worry" stop her and I wont let it stop me either.

She led a purposeful life and was fearless. She will be dearly missed.

Does the media glorify monsters like the East Coast Rapist?

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 19:00:00 +0000

The Virginia, Maryland and Connecticut Police departments have launched a website in efforts to find a rapist that has been raping women all the back to 1997. He has recently gone on a spree and they are trying a more aggressive approach to catch him. The website, www.theeastcoastrapist.com has links to contact police, the details of his case and sketch drawings.

I think this is great. More efforts like this to catch rapists would help the community participate in finding these monsters.

What I take umbrage with is the name the media gave him; The "East Coast Rapist." Similar to "Son of Sam" and "Hillside Strangler," he now has a reputation and an identity that no doubt satisfies his ego. What the media is neglecting to consider is that rape is about power. Sex is the vehicle. Giving this loser notoriety thru a name gets him off. It feeds his sickness and he may even feel justified.

This loser is a sick pervert monster and should be addressed as such. The media, particularly television news is in business for ratings. "The East Coast Rapist" makes for good TV.

I would like to suggest a different approach. We should call him the "Sick Crybaby Loser" or the "Pathetic Pee Pee Pants Pervert." Can you imagine? Picture this; a TV reporter sitting behind a desk says "More news today on the 'Idiotic Incompetent Failure' rapist. He was apprehended today in his mothers basement. Police say that they credit his capture to when he began to be less careful covering his tracks due to his extreme lack of self esteem from media ridicule. We hope that this moron rots in prison."

Now that is good TV.

Here is a composite sketch. Please contact authorities with any information.

Girl Scouts learn to kick butt and take names

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 00:40:00 +0000

This upcoming weekend I am going to teach a troupe of 11 Girl Scouts how to defend themselves. They also want to promote a community wide class for the girls in their community. How awesome is that? I cant wait. Stay tuned...

Congressman Smith's Bill Attempting to Redefine Rape

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Wed, 02 Feb 2011 00:43:00 +0000

Im just jumping right in today.

The H.R.3 otherwise known as the "No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act" Spearheaded by Congressman Chris Smith and supported by 173 members of the House is a bill that re-defines what is considered rape. Currently, federal dollars cannot be used for abortion except in cases of rape, incest, or when the woman's life is in danger. But this bill would change the definition to "(1) if the pregnancy occurred because the pregnant female was the subject of an act of forcible rape or, if a minor, an act of incest; or
'(2) in the case where the pregnant female suffers from a physical disorder, physical injury, or physical illness that would, as certified by a physician, place the pregnant female in danger of death unless an abortion is performed, including a life-endangering physical condition caused by or arising from the pregnancy"

So for example, if a 13 year old girl gets manipulated into sex and then gets pregnant by a 32 year old man like in this case. Or if a woman is drugged or date raped.
Bruises and broken bones are injuries that sometimes happen when a rape occurs. They do not define rape.

This is not political for me. If you did not consent to sex with a sound adult mind, it can be considered rape. I am extremely protective of the women I come in contact with who are rape survivors and I feel that a bill like this can further victimize them.
Whether you believe in the right to choose or not, allowing the government to define rape is a step back words for human rights.

Sign the petition here.
Or contact Chris Smith here.

"Feminist" is not The F-Word.

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:07:00 +0000

Hi guys!
By "guys" I mean my friends, family and sometimes past students who read my blog.
I know I have been gone a bit, but with the holidays and a family vacation I have been very busy! The dust has settled and I am back and I got stuff to say!

I am all fired up to write this blog because of a comment made to me by a gentleman at the bank. I was closing my business bank account (because of outrageous bank fees at this particular bank) and the man helping me asked what "Protect Yourself" was. I explained that it is my side business and I teach self defense to women. He says "Oh, so you're a feminist." And he said it in a way that was like he said "oh, you're one of those women" You know, the man hating kind. I replied, "well, I guess so." I collected my paperwork and left.

As I was driving home in silence (baby was at home:)) I was trying to figure out why this happens. This is not the first time someone I tell what I do has a negative reaction. I was offended. I guess it was because this stranger made assumptions about me based on the fact I teach self defense. Yes, I do consider my self a "feminist" I suppose. Then that got me thinking about what a "feminist" is. So I turned to Merriem Webster. MW defaults the word "feminist" to "feminism" which is defined as "the theory of political, economic, and social equality of the sexes." Okay. Not sure if I care for the "theory" part of the definition but I would say that is what I thought "feminism" was. So why do some people assign negative associations with the word "feminist?" Do they picture an un-shaven bandana wearing lesbian who hates men? (Side note, I have lesbian friends, and none of them wear bandanas or hate men.)

So I think about it again. Am I offended? No. I am frustrated. I am frustrated because I don't like that some people think that when a woman is self assured, independent, explicit in her pursuits and her desires and learns to physically defense herself, she is a man-hating bandana wearing feminist. And it further frustrates me when I think about young women acting weak, stupid and submissive because they think that makes them more attractive and agreeable. You know, the women who talk in baby voices and say "I don't know anything about those types of things."

I have a daughter and the only time it will be acceptable for her talk like a baby is right now. Because she is an actual baby.

I feel we have to raise our daughters to be multi-layered intelligent strong women. I will teach my daughter that she can compete in a pageant, and then take Jujitsu. Bake a cake and then run for Neighborhood Council. I have done all of the above and I don't consider myself masculine or Donna Reed. I am a regular woman.

I don't need to explain myself to anyone. And I need to be okay with that. The people who know me, know me. Strangers be damned.

Last Minute Holiday Shopping Safety Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 20:42:00 +0000

FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The holiday season is upon us! The first thing that comes to my mind is all the errands that I have to run! I want to make the perfect holiday for my family and friends and with that will come a lot of running around town. Making trips to the grocery store, Target, the mall, post office, etc...
It got me thinking. As women, we tend to think of others before ourselves. We our consumed during the holiday season with pleasing everyone and we tirelessly run ourselves ragged for the smile on our loved ones faces when we made their holiday extra special.
However, in the process, we become complacent about our surroundings because we are so hyper focused on all our tasks. We shop late at night, we talk on our cell phone with our sister in law to double check our nephew’s sizes when we should be paying attention. As we run around for the next month, I would like you to keep in mind a few things. Because the very best gift you can give the people who care about you is yourself safe and unharmed.

HOLIDAY SHOPPING SAFETY TIPS
1. If you must use an ATM, choose one that is located inside a mall, or well-lighted location. Withdraw only the amount of cash you need. Protect your PIN by shielding the ATM keypad from anyone who is standing near you. Do not throw your ATM receipt away at the ATM location.

2. It is getting darker earlier and earlier in the day. Try to pick up gifts before you go to work and not after. Most malls and super stores like Target and Wal-Mart have holiday hours that extend to earlier in the morning.

3. If you must shop at night, use the valet service. I know, its one of those "luxury expenses" that many just can’t seem to bring themselves to pay for, but it’s usually under $10 including tip and that’s definitely worth your personal safety. Many shopping centers have complimentary valet during the holiday season. Also, it makes you feel fancy!

4. If you have to park your car at night in a lot, park in the best lit spot available.

5. Do not approach your car alone if there are suspicious people in the area. Listen to you intuition. If you have a bad feeling, turn around and go back inside!

6. Ask a Security Guard for an escort. Most major retail stores hire extra help during the holiday season, so there should be plenty to help you.

7. Shop online.

8. Make a day of it. Go with a group of friends or your family and split up. Meet in the food court after a decided amount of time. Come as a group, leave as a group.

9. If you can, leave your kids at home. Children distract us. Our focus immediately goes to them. Pickpockets and purse snatchers look for the distracted mother who put her shopping bags down to deal with her kid and her bags are gone when she turns back around.

10. DO NOT except unsolicited help from strangers. Male or female. This is a way that predators gain your trust. "Let me help you with that" he might say. Say NO! And go back inside. If they persist, state firmly and loudly "I did not ask for your help and I do not want it." This might feel rude or extreme, but all attackers seem nice when you first meet them. They are trying to gain your trust so that they can easily get you into a vulnerable situation. I don’t care if he's wearing a boy scout uniform. SAY NO!

GREATER LOS ANGELES SHOPPING CENTERS RATED ON THIER SAFETY MEASURES!
I called several shopping centers all through out Los Angeles County to see what they do to increase safety during the holiday season. The Grove, and The Americana are highly recommended!

****The Americana 4 stars! Highly recommended!
889 Americana Way
Glendale, CA 91210
(877) 897-2097
Extra security staff, Valet, Cameras, Bellhop and Concierge Service

****The Grove 4 stars! Highly recommended!
189 The Grove Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90036
(323) 900-8080
Extra security staff, Valet, Cameras, Bellhop and Concierge Service

***The Oaks 3 stars
350 West Hillcrest Drive
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
(805) 495-4628
Extra security staff, Valet, Cameras

***Beverly Center 3 stars
8500 Beverly Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90048
(310) 854-0071
Extra security staff, Valet, Cameras

***Burbank Town Center 3 stars
201 East Magnolia, Suite 151
Burbank, California 91502
(818) 566-8556
Extra security staff, Valet, Cameras

***Westfield Fashion Square Shopping Center 3 stars
14006 Riverside Drive
Sherman Oaks CA 91423 (818) 783-0550
Extra security staff, Valet, Cameras

***Westfield Valencia Town Center Shopping Center 3 stars
24201 West Valencia Blvd
Valencia CA 91355
(661) 287-9050
Extra security staff, Valet, Cameras

***Westfield Century City Shopping Center 3 stars
10250 Santa Monica Blvd.
Los Angeles CA 90067
(310) 277-3898
Extra security staff, Valet, Cameras

***Westside Pavilion 3 stars
10800 West Pico Blvd
Suite 312
Los Angeles, CA 90064
(310) 470-8752
Extra security staff, Cameras

***Westfield Topanga Shopping Center 3 stars
6600 Topanga Canyon Boulevard
Canoga Park CA 91303
(818) 594 8732
Extra security staff, Valet, Cameras

***Northridge Fashion Center 3 stars
9301 Tampa Avenue
Northridge, California 91324
(818) 886- 6280
Extra security staff, Valet, Cameras, Police precinct located in the mall, undercover and uniformed officers patrolling

**Glendale Galleria 2 stars
2148 Glendale Galleria
Glendale, California 91210
818.240.9481
Extra security staff, Cameras

*This information was derived from the Head of Marketing, Head of Security or a Security Officer.

FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS,
HAPPY HOLIDAYS & HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Stay Empowered,

Anni Lundy

I'm Running for North Hills East Neighborhood Council

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 00:22:00 +0000

Hello Everyone!

I wanted to post on my blog that I am running to represent you on the Board of the North Hills East Neighborhood Council.

My family and I purchased our first home in North Hills in 2009. I am wife, mother and certified Women’s Self Defense Instructor. I dedicate my time to teaching women empowerment and how to better protect themselves.

I ask you to vote for me because the safety of our community is my number one priority. As a Self Defense instructor, I am familiar with violent crime. I am passionate about uniting the community and building sub-committees that will help deter criminal activity.

An active Land Use committee, a neighborhood watch, and several beautification projects will be a step in the right direction.

I believe in our community and I know that we can make it better. If you vote for me, I will do my best to make North Hills a safe place to live, work, worship, study and raise a family.

I have a great stake in this community. This is where I will raise my daughter. Children represent 37% of our community. They are my focus and the reason I am running for the Neighborhood Council.

The votes are tallied by counting a show of hands. So you must be there in person for your vote to count!

The election takes place the Town Hall Meeting at
The North Valley Caring Services
15452 Reyen Street North Hills, CA 91343
on December 11, 2010 from 10:30-12:30pm

Amazon Pulls Pedophile "How-To" Book

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 21:58:00 +0000

When I read this my audible reply was "I'm sorry, what?"

In response to over 3000 comments of outrage, Amazon has pulled a self published book called "A Pedophile's Guide to Love and Pleasure."

Again, WHAT??!! Read about it here. Why not sell a book on a rapist's guide to "love and pleasure?" Because that is what a pedophile is. A rapist. A child rapist.

My question to Amazon is WHY WERE YOU SELLING THIS BOOK IN THE FIRST PLACE??!!! Am I supposed to breathe a sigh of relief now because they are no longer selling an f*$@ing "how-to" pedophile book??!!

Dear Amazon,
Sexual assault is not about love or pleasure. Its about control and sexual assault is the vehicle. Giving these "people" (and I use the term loosely) a voice is a slap in the face of survivors of sexual assault/abuse/molestation in the face. You are an enormous company that nets billions of dollars. Why don't you throw a few bucks towards sensitivity training?
Shame. On. You.

The only good thing that could come out of this book being up for sale is that the police can have probable cause to search the homes and computers of anyone who buys it!

Sincerely,
A human being with common sense.

Rape case woman to appeal against jailing for withdrawing allegations

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 23:07:00 +0000

I read this about this appalling case in The Guardian where a woman in the UK has been sent to jail for "falsely retracting" her allegations of 6 counts of rape by her husband.

She retracted her statement because she was (according to her) "emotionally blackmailed." Probably scared for life, ashamed and uncertain of her future. Now she is facing eight months in jail. She is currently in the process of appealing this ruling.

This is absolutely shameful. Not only is this a complete injustice to women and humanity, but it may make women scared to report their rape. Domestic rape is more common than people realize. Its hard enough to report a rape and can be even harder to report a rape when the rapist is your husband.

The judge said she had wasted a "substantial amount" of time and money for the Crown Prosecution Service and the police. The husband, who appeared in court at an earlier hearing, pleaded not guilty to rape.

All I can say is thank God we live in America, and if you are raped by anyone, always report it and never feel ashamed for doing so. Furthermore, if you feel you are in danger in your marriage, contact an outreach non-profit group such as the California Partnership to End Domestic Violence.

Stay Empowered,

Anni Lundy

Spooktacular Halloween Safety!

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Thu, 14 Oct 2010 23:31:00 +0000

Hi guys,
If you know me personally, you know I love, I mean LOVE halloween! I watch scary movies year round (anything zombie is my favorite) and I love all things pumpkin. My house has been decorated since September 15th, okay people? I love it! I get caught up in the pageantry of it all and I have to remind myself to remain vigilant on halloween. While it's a blast to dress up and go hit the streets at night, it's a perfect setting for potential attackers.
Below are a few tips to keep in mind to have a safe halloween.

For the Little Ghosts:
1. The very first thing you should do (if you haven't already) is go to the National Sex Offender Public Website. I blogged about it last month. Pop in your zip code and you can see where these individuals live. Avoid these homes. Not that I think these people would give out poison candy. But trick or treating at their home is a perfect opportunity for them to meet your child in a setting that feels safe that would allow them to gain trust. Enough said.

2. If your little ghoul or goblin is going out without adult supervision, discuss the route they will be on and times they must check in. They can call on a cell phone or physically check in. Another option is to create a route around neighbors you know well and have it worked out with them that they will call and let you know that your child just came by. Or if you want to get ambitious, talk to other parents in your neighborhood and could get together and map out a master route for all your kids to follow, that way you can constantly check in with each other.

3. Give your child a good dinner before they leave the house. This way they wont be tempted to dig into their pillow cases (thats what we used when I was a kid) of candy before you have a chance to inspect it. I have never seen a reported case of someone actually poisoning candy, but its one of those things you cant leave to chance.

4. Make sure they are visible. I know that your son who is dressed up like a bloody corpse wont appreciate you sewing reflector lights on his costume, but he could probably be talked into a glow necklace and bracelet.

5. Have a talk with them before they hit the road. Let them know that they shouldn't talk to strangers, walk in the street or vandalize. When I was a kid, I remember that I was so excited to get out of the house and my mom would always pull me aside and sternly lay down the rules just before I left. It didn't ruin my good time, and I remembered my mothers words.

For Grown-up Goblins:
1. I have said this in many blogs. If you are going somewhere you don't know the place or the people, wear shoes you can run and fight it. I know a lot of halloween costumes are basically lingerie with a headband of cat ears, but be smart! You can still look cute/sexy and be mobile.

2. I have also said this in many blogs too; valet your car. I know, it cost money. Too bad! Shell out the extra $10 so you don't have to walk to your car late at night by yourself. And for heavens sake, don't drink and drive.

3. Stay with people/go with people. I know you may meet a handsome gentleman who glitters like Edward Cullen in the sun, but do not go somewhere alone with someone you just met. Period.

4. Consider this: halloween for adults can be a concoction of alcohol and costumes (hidden identities) it is the perfect setting for a potential attacker. Continue to check in with yourself through out the evening. Ask yourself; Am I sober? Am I in control of myself? Have I put myself in a position of vulnerability?

I hope you consider my advise.
Stay empowered!
And remember, have a spoooooktacular time!

National Sex Offender Public Website

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Fri, 01 Oct 2010 23:19:00 +0000

Hello!

I know, I know. It has been a while since I have blogged, yes.

Dan and I have been busy raising our beautiful baby girl and teaching a lot!

We have moved to a new neighborhood and that got me thinking about checking the National Sex Offender website again.

You should check your zip code. Even if you have checked it before, check it again for updates.

http://www.nsopw.gov

Stay Empowered!

Anni Lundy

SHAME: Roman Polanski goes free

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 21:04:00 +0000

I guess Switzerland does take sides. This is shameful.

This article is from the LA Times

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2010/07/roman-polanski-is-a-free-man-with-some-key-conditions.html

Roman Polanski is a free man -- with some key conditions

The decision by Swiss authorities not to extradite Roman Polanski to the United States to face sentencing for having sex with a teenage girl three decades ago leaves the famed director a free man -- with some conditions.

Although the decision marked a defeat for the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office's bid to have Polanski extradited, the director remains a fugitive who could still be snapped up if he leaves France or travels to other countries that would give him a safe haven, said Stan Goldman, a professor at Loyola Law School.

"As long as he ferries between Switzerland and France and few other countries, he's not likely to be extradited," Goldman said.

Polanski could face arrest if he travels to the United States or other nations such as England.

In the end, the statements by Swiss authorities left more questions than answers. It was unclear if the Swiss courts did not give proper notice to U.S. authorities in asking for documentation or if U.S. prosecutors failed to hand over relevant documents as part of their extradition request.

"The important thing here is they didn't turn over papers," Goldman said. "The court also made the argument that Polanski had no way of knowing he would be extradited if he went to Switzerland. I don't think any American court would have said that."

Goldman said the decision by Swiss authorities shows that not everyone has the same view of the law.

"It reminds us that American courts don't control the world and we don't view the law in the same way," Goldman said. "The Court of Appeals can't reach to Zurich."

-- Andrew Blankstein

Lawmakers pass $20M settlement for kidnapped girl

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 21:22:00 +0000

Its a shame that this happened to this woman when she was young. But I cant think of a better reward for endurance, survival skills and bravery

The following article is from yahoo news/ AP http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100701/ap_on_re_us/us_kidnapped_girl_settlement Lawmakers pass $20M settlement for kidnapped girl

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – California lawmakers approved a $20 million settlement Thursday with the family of Jaycee Dugard, who was kidnapped as a girl and held captive in a secret backyard for 18 years by a paroled sex offender.

Dugard, 30, resurfaced last August with two daughters she bore withPhillip Garrido, a convicted rapist.

Dugard and her daughters, ages 15 and 12, filed claims in February, saying state officials with the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation failed to do their jobs. Parole agents began supervisingGarrido in 1999 but didn't discover Dugard.

The Dugard family members claimed psychological, physical and emotional damages.

"I can't emphasize enough that we've got to be much more prudent in terms of how we provide oversight for released prisoners in the stateof California," Assemblyman Ted Gaines, R-Granite Bay, said.

The money will be used to buy the family a home, ensure privacy, pay for education, replace lost income and cover what will likely be years of therapy, said retired San Francisco County Superior Court Judge Daniel Weinstein, who acted as the mediator in the case.

In addition, much of the money will be placed in long-term investments, he said.

"It was not an effort to make reparations for the years of abuse and incarceration or imprisonment against their will, because ... the damages to these people were incalculable," Weinstein said. "Part of this was a prudent effort by the state to shut off liability from a catastrophic verdict."

Weinstein praised the state for quickly accepting responsibility, and the Dugards for accepting a reasonable settlement at a time when the state faces a $19 billion budget deficit.

The money will come from the state's hard-hit general fund, which pays for most state operations.

Dugard's mother filed a claim with the state in February but was not included in the settlement, Weinstein said.

He said the scope of the claim was unprecedented in his 20 years as a mediator because of the duration of the crime and that it led to the birth of two children.

Attorneys for the Dugards did not immediately respond to calls seeking comment. Terry Thornton, a spokeswoman for the state corrections department, declined comment.

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger intends to sign the bill detailing the settlement, spokesman Aaron McLear said.

Garrido and his wife Nancy have pleaded not guilty to charges that they kidnapped and raped the young woman.

Dugard and her children were hidden at the Garrido home in the eastern San Francisco Bay area city of Antioch, authorities said.

Lawmakers approved the settlement with a 30-1 vote in the Senate and a 62-0 vote in the Assembly. It involved the bulk of the money approved in AB1714, which settles three other claims for a combined $1.49 million.

Assemblyman Jim Nielsen, R-Yuba City, said it was wise for the state to pay the claim quickly rather than fight a court battle that he said "exacerbates the grievous loss of the victims and the lifelong condemnation and pain of their families."

He predicted the state also will pay claims in the case of John Albert Gardner III, who pleaded guilty earlier this year to killing two San Diego County teenagers. Parole agents were also faulted in that case for failing to send Gardner, a convicted sex offender, back to prison.

___

Associated Press Writer Cathy Bussewitz contributed to this story.

A Bill to Help Curb Violence

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 20:30:00 +0000

A Bill to Help Curb Violence

From Parade Magazine

http://www.parade.com/news/intelligence-report/archive/100502-a-bill-to-curb-violence.html

Ritu Sharma is co-founder of Women Thrive Worldwide, a nonprofit that seeks to give women tools to escape poverty.

You helped write the International Violence Against Women Act now pending in Congress. What would it do?
The bill would mobilize about a billion dollars over five years to combat violence against women and girls in target countries that have good programs in place. The money would help those programs grow.
For example?
In Honduras, local organizations help survivors of violence develop skills so they can become economically self-sufficient and leave abusive situations. In Morocco, groups promote women’s rights within the context of their religion. Many programs do outreach to help change the mind-sets of men and boys. The best approach for us is to support local grassroots organizations that are creating change from within.
Can we really afford to spend this money right now?
Half-a-billion dollars sounds like a lot, but it’s so tiny in the context of the U.S. budget, it’s like a rounding error. The bill has bipartisan support because this is a place where we can make a big difference without much money. No one is for violence against women, yet one in three women will be a victim of violence in her lifetime.

— Rebecca Webber

Ask ANNI-What About Martial Arts?

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Tue, 04 May 2010 23:29:00 +0000

Dear Anni,
My son attends karate and they also have women's self defense class. Do you think it is useful for women to take karate? I'm no longer in LA and so can't use you -- although I would if I could!
-Lane

Dear Lane,

I think that martial arts is a fantastic way to learn not only to defend yourself but to learn meditation and self control. However, it is a time investment and commitment. One cannot just walk into a dojo and walk out a ninja!

If you are looking to learn some quick self defense moves, than a self defense class is a better way to go. Look for a self defense class that will teach you easy three to five step moves that can be remembered during a crisis.

But if you are willing to make the commitment, I urge you to challenge yourself with martial arts!

Stay Empowered,

Anni Lundy

ASK ANNI-OUT WITH THE KIDS

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 21:36:00 +0000

Dear Anni,

I have two children under the age of 2 and often feel vulnerable when getting them in and out of the car. Between the infant, the toddler, my purse, the cart, my list.... I'm not only a circus mess but probably an easy target. What tips to you have for mom's on the go?

-Toni

Dear Toni,

I completely understand. I new mom myself. We do feel like vulnerable targets when our most when raveling with precious cargo. The easiest way to approach this issue is to prioritize they most important to the least important. For example, when getting to your car after grocery shopping do the following:

1. Unlock you car via remote. (If you dont have a remote, look into it. They are a good safety investment)

2. Put the kids/babies in the car securely.

3. Purse in the car.

4. Groceries in the car.

5. DONT put your cart back. Try to leave the cart in the lot while being mindful of other cars. (Store employees get paid to put the carts back, it's okay to leave them in the lot! It's for your safety!)

6. Get in the car, seat belt on a drive. DONT sit in the driver's seat organizing your purse or on the phone. Get out of the parking lot first.

7. Look around you and be alert the entire time. If a thief is looking for a potential target, he is more like to pick someone who is distracted or just not paying attention. Move with purpose and get out quickly.

Also, investing in a kid harness (kid leash) is great for toddler who like to run once their feet hit the payment. Put it on them long enough to get the baby out so your toddler isnt have way down the street or God forbid, in the street before you can get your infant seat out. Telling your toddler to "stay put" is a great idea in theory, but lets face it. If given the opportunity to run, most toddlers take it. So I think the harness is the best way. Just reinforce why you are putting it on, so perhaps eventually you wont have to put it on them after a while. "You have to wear your special harness so that you will stay with mommy."

Traveling with kids is hard. It makes you feel handicapped. We all have to adjust to the new way of operating!

Remember this: I pity the fool who dares to step between a mother and her children. Right?

ASK ANNI-CHILD SAFTEY

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 23:25:00 +0000

Dear Anni,

What are the most effective things I can do to prevent child abduction and/or abuse from caregivers or strangers? Please don't say background checks, because, well obviously. Also, what are signs of abuse to look for in small children who can't verbalize their experiences yet?

-Parentinginprogress

Dear Parentinginprogress,

As a new mother, this is something I frequently think about. My first suggestion would be to read a book called "Protecting The Gift" By Gavin DeBecker. It is a must read for parents and dives into detail about these subjects.

To prevent abduction:

If you child is still non-verbal, DO NOT leave them with anyone you do not know well. For instance, My husband and I are going to a wedding at the end of the month and we will be meeting many new "family members." Simply because this person is a "family member" I will not be leaving my daughter in their care. Not to go to the restroom, not for a second. I do not know them well. And even if you leave them with someone you do know well, make it clear that you left your child with them, no one else. And they are not let them out of their arms until you return.

If you suspect abuse look for non-verbal cues such as;

1. Your child is flinching now for no apparent reason.

2.Your child is un-easy, fussy or reluctant to be around a particular individual.

3. Bruises, scratches or marks on uncharacteristic places of your child's body.

I would suggest (if the care giver is in your home) a nanny cam. Or drop in unannounced.

Furthermore, ask questions. Some daycare centers give a full report of what your child did that day. If your center does not, ask. Having a reference like that will help piece together suspicions if you have any.

And finally, TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS. If you have a feeling, go with it. Don't let other people (including husbands or wives) tell you that you are over reacting. This is your child. Any inkling you may feel that there is abuse deserves further investigation.

"Ask Anni" Launches in April!

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 20:41:00 +0000

Hello Ladies!

In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (In April) I have decided to launch a new portion of my blog called "Ask Anni." It will be a published question and answer blog entry.

I get calls and emails all the time regarding specific self defense scenarios. I think it is beneficial to publish my answers to these questions so that all my readers can learn and we can have start a dialogue and raise awareness!

Please email your self defense questions to me at anni@protectys.com or post them in the comment portion of this entry.

I will begin posting my answers in April!

Stay Empowered!

Anni Lundy

A Heightened Sense of Awareness

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 23:51:00 +0000

I was reading the news coverage on Chelsea King, a San Diego teen whose body was found after being missing after going for a jog.

It got me thinking about the "heightened sense of awareness" people have after tragedies like this.

When people see stories like this they feel an overwhelming urgency to protect their daughters, wives, girlfriends, etc.. Which is a good thing. Vigilance is what keeps us safe.

I dont like to capitalize on the misfortune of others, but after incidences like this is when I become the most busy. Its fresh on your mind and you feel an urge to action so that you can alive some tension and worry for your safety and the safety of your loved ones. Which is also a good thing. Thinking about the possibility of an attack will prepare you better to survive.

It is important that all women have a basic knowledge of self defense. I'm not talking about carrying your keys between your fingers or just telling yourself that you will just "kick them in the balls" if you get attacked. Im talking about real physical and mental self defense.

Physical self defense is the 1-2-3 moves you can learn in my class or from another self defense teacher. I am formally trained in Jujitsu, but that does not mean you have to go to a dojo to learn these moves. There are plenty of classes out there for real life scenarios that teach women moves that usually have only 3 steps and are easy to remember in a time of crisis.

Mental self defense is preparing your mind for the attack. Most women who find themselves in an attack tend to freeze because they are so shocked and frightened, that they just don't know what to do. That is normal. In order to more efficiently fight back you must mentally prepare yourself. When you are alone, close your eyes and visualize yourself winning a life and death fight. Maybe your get hit, maybe you picture yourself yelling "no!" at him. Play out different scenarios too. Hopefully you will never need to use it, but your best defense is mental.

I hope that you take this "heightened sense of awareness" to take a Women's Self Defense class.

Stay Empowered,

Anni Lundy

Women's Self Defense Instructor

I'm Back...baby!

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 23:45:00 +0000

Hi Everyone!

I wanted to write a quick entry to say "I'm back!" I have been gone on maternity leave for the last few months. Our daughter, Lillian Grace Lundy was born October 26, 2009. A full month early! She just couldn't wait to see mommy and daddy! After a very quick 4 hour labor and 4 days in the NICU we took our beautiful daughter home to our new home in North Hills. We will miss Burbank, but with our growing family, we needed more space!

Dan and I are very happy and very eager to teach to the masses again! We have March booked up and April is booking up quickly. So if you are interested in a class or a speaking engagement, give a call so we can get you on the calendar!

More blogs to come.

Stay Empowered,

Anni Lundy

Women's Self Defense Instructor

Self Defense for Pregnant Women

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 21:53:00 +0000

Hello All,

I know it’s a been a stretch since my last entry. Dan and I are expecting our first child and in the process of buying our first home and being pregnant and jumping through escrow hoops has taken up some of my time!

As a woman pregnant with her first child, my mind is full of anxiety! Will I have trouble Breastfeeding? Am I eating right? How are we going to afford all this? How much will labor actually hurt? And so on. However as a Self Defense Instructor what weighs on my mind most heavy is “How can I defend my self and my baby while I am pregnant?”

After much thought and physical logistic questions with my OBGYN and midwife, I have complied some advise for other pregnant women that I follow personally. For me, Self Defense for pregnant women fall under two categories: “Attack Prevention” and “Physical Defense.”

ATTACK PREVENTION

“Attack Prevention” is the behavior and actions that we exhibit in order to avoid a potential attacker. It requires an adaptation of “new rules” for us, a new way of thinking that puts our safety first. These our new rules:

Pay attention. It seems so basic! However I know I experience “pregnancy brain” and a pair of shiny keys can distract me sometimes! When you are out an about, don’t think about painting the nursery, cord blood banking or epidurals, stay focused and be aware of your surroundings

Be aware of unsolicited help. As pregnant women, we get loads of help from strangers; doors opened for us and “can I help you with that.” People are inclined to help pregnant women because well, we are pregnant! We evoke empathy from strangers. Which is lovely and nice when you need a little extra attention during this hard time. HOWEVER, be leery of the unsolicited help you get from strangers! Opening a door for you or allowing the bagger at the grocery store help you out to your car are acceptable forms of help. If someone approaches you in the parking lot and offers help with your groceries after you have left the store, that’s a different story. Never allow anyone to “help” you that require going into a private area with someone you just met, the difference between the bagger and a stranger is that the bagger gets paid to do it. Remember to be firm with people. “I did not ask for you help and I do not want it.”

Valet. That’s right fancy lady, valet. Whenever it is available. It’s usually about $5. The benefit is that you have your car brought right to you and you don’t have to walk through a parking lot alone to your car. This especially goes for those of you who will be pregnant during the holiday season and will be out shopping for gifts. You can be a target to a potential attacker or mugger if you walk alone with bags of merchandise looking visibly pregnant. I know, I hate spending money on things that seem frivolous. But look at it this way, how many unnecessary baby gadgets and clothes have you bought in the last few months? I know we are all guilty, so lets spring for the extra $5, okay?

Don’t meet strangers without preparations. Many of us will work as long as we can during our pregnancy so that we can have the longest maternity leave as possible. A friend of mine has to do a lot of meeting potential clients. A.K.A; meeting complete strangers. If your job requires you to do this, take precautions! Make sure that your place of business knows where you going and the time frame in which you will be there. Make sure that the person you are meeting knows that other people know where you are as well.

Follow your instincts. I talk about this in all my classes and I have written about it as well. If you feel like something is wrong or “off” about a situation, then it probably is. DO NOT ignore what your intuition is saying about someone simply because you don’t want to be rude. If someone tried to harm your child, you would have no problem telling someone to back off, right? So think of it that way. You are the mama bear now. Protect your cub.

Don’t afraid of being rude. Just say no. If you don’t want to meet a client because it doesn’t seem safe, say no, If you don’t want help from people, say no. If you feel like a situation could potentially be dangerous and you are not comfortable, say no. Were covered. There are laws that protect our rights at our jobs. If a stranger thinks you’re being a “bitch” then who cares? It’s a stranger, not your mother in law.

PHYSICAL DEFENSE

Now we get down to the scarier stuff. You have adapted the ”new rules” yet some how you are in a bad situation. Attack is eminent. Here are some things that may help you:

Pepper Spray. Carry it. Learn how to use it. It’s a deterrent for some attackers if they see it your hands and if you get a good shot of it their face, it can give you some time to escape.

Tasers and Stun Guns. These require a bit more skill and cost more money than pepper spray. However if you have access to them, carry them. I know they are bulky, but they can incapacitate an attacker long enough for you to get away.

Fight. Ever heard of the phrase “fight or flight” well, its should be “fight or freeze.” Most times when women find themselves in an attack situation, they freeze out of fear. They are shocked, the reality of the moment hasn’t sunk in and they are frozen. This could happen with pregnant women. You are so worried about they baby, that you freeze. Channel your inner mama bear. Tell you yourself “this person is trying to hurt my baby.” Get angry. Fight.

Don’t worry about the baby. What?!! That’s right. In the moment of violence, don’t think about the baby. Don’t think, “I am pregnant and I shouldn’t be doing this with my body!” Instead think: “I am not going to let you hurt me or the people I care about.” Use the same skills you learned in Self Defense class or any other moves you know. Fingers in the eyes, palm strikes, kicks, whatever, Is it safe for the baby? Perhaps not. That depends on the situation. But remember, the situation is not ideal. Your safety and survival is paramount. If you are not safe, your baby isn’t safe. Besides, our bodies protect our babies better than you think.

MY TWO CENTS

That’s my advice, at least what I can think of right now. But I hope it got you thinking about your daily life and ways you can Protect Yourself. If you have any advice or comments you would like make, please do! I want to start a discussion! This topic is never touched on and it is so important.

I will keep you all posted on the baby. I hope you enjoy your pregnancies!

Stay Empowered,

Anni Lundy

Protect Yourself

Follow me on Twitter!

http://twitter.com/protectyourself

Outrage! Chris Brown was slapped on the wrist in Rihanna assault case!

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:42:00 +0000

I have to post this entry. Most of my posts are positive and informational about safety. However today I cannot contain my um... "passion" about this topic.

I don't know how many of you have been following this, but after rap artist Chris Brown pleaded guilty to beating his ex-girlfriend pop singer Rihanna, Judge Patricia Schnegg delivered a slap on the wrist and sent the violent offender on his merry way. 1400 hours of community service and 5 years probation?! This is not an acceptable punishment to anyone who commits a violent crime.

Violence creates physical and mental trauma for the victim that many never recover fully from. Not to mention, statistically men who will hit a women once, will do it again. Ask any woman in a domestic abuse shelter. Not to mention, Chris Brown did not just hit Rihanna, he choked her and said "I will kill you." But picking up trash seems like an acceptable punishment for that, right?

Thanks to Judge Patricia Schnegg, a message has been sent to men that you can beat a woman and essentially get away with it.

IF SOMEONE DID THIS TO A WOMAN IN YOUR LIFE WOULD YOU BE HAPPY WITH THE PUNISHMENT HER ATTACKER RECEIVED?

Read the cnn.com article below for more information.

Chris Brown pleads guilty in Rihanna assault case

http://www.cnn.com/2009/SHOWBIZ/Music/06/22/chris.brown.hearing/index.html

LOS ANGELES, California (CNN) -- A plea deal has been reached in the assault case against singer Chris Brown, defense attorney Mark Geragos said in a hearing Monday.

Brown, 20, faced charges of assaulting his pop star girlfriend, Rihanna, following a row earlier this year.

Under terms of the agreement, Brown will serve five years of probation and must serve 180 days in jail or the equivalent -- about 1,400 hours -- in "labor-oriented service," said Sandi Gibbons, spokeswoman for the Los Angeles County District Attorney's office. He must also undergo a year-long domestic-violence counseling class, she said.

Brown's sentence is comparable to other felony sentences when the defendant has no previous record, she said.

"This is not an easy sentence," Gibbons said. He must check in with a probation officer every three months.

Brown had previously pleaded not guilty to felony counts of assault and making criminal threats in connection with an attack on Rihanna.

But under the plea deal, he pleaded guilty to one count of assault with the intent of doing great bodily injury in connection with the argument inside a rented Lamborghini on a Hollywood street in February.

Rihanna, whose real name is Robyn Rihanna Fenty, made a brief appearance at the hearing -- after Brown had left the courtroom -- to hear Los Angeles Criminal Court Judge Patricia Schnegg discuss the issuance of a "stay away" order requiring him to stay 100 yards from her. Through her attorney, Rihanna had requested that such an order not be issued.

But Schnegg refused that request, saying she would issue such an order but would revise it to 50 yards -- 10 yards if the two are at the same "industry event" together.

Schnegg told Rihanna, who was wearing a black dress with white pearls around her neck, that she would consider lifting the order afterBrown completes his domestic violence counseling but advised Rihanna not to contact Brown. Asked whether she understood, Rihanna said she did before leaving the courtroom via a back door.

Rihanna's attorney, Donald Etra, said Rihanna made the request because she felt that a protective order in place, requiring that Brown not annoy or harass her, was sufficient.

Schnegg said Brown could apply to have his supervised probation transferred to Virginia, where he maintains his legal residence. He also can complete his community service there, she said, but it would have to meet the court's standards."I want Mr. Brown treated as any other defendant who comes to this court," Schnegg said. She noted, however, that he has no prior criminal record.

Gibbons, of the district attorney's office, explained that the judge wants Brown to work -- remove graffiti, for instance -- as part of his service.

"His sentence is not based on what he's available to do," Gibbons said. "His sentence is what he's going to do, or he's going to go to state prison for four years."

Dressed in a light plaid suit, Brown answered "guilty" when asked his plea by Assistant District Attorney Mary Murray.

Formal sentencing was set for August 5.

After the hearing, Geragos said of Brown, "as long as I've known him in connection with this case, he's wanted to take responsibility."

He said Brown is thankful to those who offered him support and noted that he is "a kid who's never been in trouble before" who wants to "move past this" and get out the message that domestic violence is not acceptable.

Brown "embraces this as an opportunity to get his life back on track and get his career back on track," Geragos said, adding that Brown will speak further after his sentencing.

Etra said after the hearing that Rihanna "was fully prepared to testify and she would have told the truth about what happened that evening." He said she did not object to the plea agreement.

Rihanna had not attended any of the hearings in the case but had been following the case closely, Etra said earlier.

She did not file a complaint against Brown, but the prosecution's case was built on what she told detectives and on physical evidence collected from her, including photographs of her bruised and battered face.

It was not Rihanna who called police but someone who heard her screams for help, according to a sworn statement by Los Angeles Police Detective DeShon Andrews.

The statement, filed with the court to support a search warrant for cell phone records, described a brutal attack against Rihanna, allegedly by Brown.

Andrews said the incident began when Rihanna, who was riding in the sports car driven by Brown, found a text message on his cell phone from "a woman who Brown had a previous sexual relationship with."

"A verbal argument ensued," followed by the physical attack, the statement said. It went on to describe the assault in great detail, saying Brown punched her numerous times and put her in a head lock, restricting her breathing and causing her to start to lose consciousness. He threatened to "beat the s--t out of you" and kill her, according to the statement, and also bit her ear and her fingers.

Eventually, "Robyn F. began screaming for help and Brown exited the vehicle and walked away. A resident in the neighborhood heard Robyn F.'s plea for help and called 911, causing a police response. An investigation was conducted and Robyn F. was issued a Domestic Violence Emergency Protective Order."

At the end of his statement, the detective said Brown sent a text message nine days later, apologizing.Brown also issued a public apology for the incident just days after his arrest.

"Words cannot begin to express how sorry and saddened I am over what transpired," he said in a statement released by his spokesman. "I am seeking the counseling of my pastor, my mother and other loved ones and I am committed, with God's help, to emerging a better person."

I'm Still Here!

noreply@blogger.com (Anni) — Sat, 30 May 2009 18:03:00 +0000

Hello all!
I am writing this quick blog entry to let you know that I have not fallen off the face of earth! Due to some family circumstances, I have been M.I.A for the last few months. Family first is my motto, so I thank those of you who have been patiently waiting for classes!
The website is going to be updated soon and classes will be up and running.
I am currently working on a stranger danger curriculum for kids ages 5-8 and I know that it will be a great asset for children and great way for parents to open the discussion of strangers with their kids.
Please contact me if you need me. I'm back!!

Stay empowered,
Anni Lundy