Each day in America, it is estimated that 160,000 students stay home from school to avoid being bullied. If you take a look at the media headlines in any given week, it’s easy to see that bullying is a growing problem in our schools. The good news is that it is a problem that many teachers can help tackle by creating a bully-free classroom, something that is easier to do than one might think.

“We all know that bullying is a major concern in our schools,” explains Peter J. Goodman, author of the book “We’re All Different But We’re All Kitty Cats.” “But there are things teachers can do to help address this problem and prevent it from happening.” 

January is known as National Meat Month. It’s a great time to pause and take a look at just how much America loves its meat, as well as uncover new ways to enjoy and celebrate it. In fact, during 2012, over 52 billion pounds of meat was consumed in America, for an average of 270.7 pounds consumed per person. Compare that to the worldwide average of 102.5 pounds per person consumed yearly and it’s easy to see where America stacks up.

“Meat is a tradition for many people, as well as a great source of numerous vitamins, minerals, and protein,” says Ryan Fichter, Executive Chef at both the Bodega Spanish Tapas & Lounge and Thunder Burger & Bar. “People may want to expand their horizons this month to see what else is out there, beyond what they are used to eating.”

Here are 5 ways to celebrate National Meat Month:

“Hobie (formerly Brinks) is just a darling. He sits, stays, shakes, and has a perfect ‘down,’ when not distracted, of course! He's learning to ‘fetch the paper’ and to ‘wait’ before charging through a doorway. He's playful, curious, very smart, and just a regular love. He loves big dogs, and now that he has his rabies vaccine, he is going to K9 Divine's farm two days a week, which is heaven for him. We also love exploring the woods behind our house and the Archbold Glover Trail. Hobie is now a part time lawyer and loves going to my husband’s law office.