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Love This! Creative Candles
[Above: DIY Vintage Teacup Candles from Hey Gorgeous. Directions on how to make them here!]
Over the past couple of years, I've developed a deep love for candles. There's something extremely relaxing about having a lit candle burning nearby, and nothing helps to create more of an ambiance (if you will), than a dimly-lit room with lots of candles burning.
So, since the holidays are around the corner, I thought it would be fun to share some creative candles today...some are even DIY (holiday gifts, anyone?).
Take a look below...
Above: Log Candle Holder from Blisscraft and Brazen on Etsy
Above: DIY Recycle Altoid Tin Candles from Rad Megan in Words & Pictures (directions here!).
Above: Mason Jar Candle Holders (a new wedding or outside event favorite!) from Treasure Again on Etsy.
...And for those who are looking for something really out there, of course there are many candle options for you, too (I even came across a poo-shaped candle on one site! Eek!)...two that I thought were *interesting* are below:
Who knew candles could be so interesting, right? So instead of giving your ordinary old candles this year, think outside the jar (hehe!) and get creative on someone...
Seeing "What Is" (in Both Life and Art!)
It's that time again...time for a "moment with Pema," or a segment that I should start calling"The Wisdom Corner"...basically, a chance for me to share another amazing reading from the all-knowing Pema Chodron. Does it seem like I quote her a lot? Oh wait, that's because I do. But really, how is she so wise? As a yoga teacher I should know better than to put a teacher on a pedestal, but I can't help to do so with her! So here goes, Pema on "seeing what is:"
Holding on to beliefs limits our experience of life. That doesn't mean that beliefs or opinions or ideas are a problem. It's the stubborn attitude of having to have things be a particular way, grasping on to our beliefs and opinions, that cause the problems. Using your belief system this way creates a situation in which you choose to be blind instead of being able to see, to be deaf instead of being able to hear, to be dead rather than alive, asleep rather than awake.
As people who want to live a good, full, restricted, adventurous, real kind of life, there is concrete instruction we can follow: see what is. When you catch yourself grasping at beliefs or thoughts, just see what is. Without calling your belief right or wrong, acknowledge it. See it clearly without judgment and let it go. Come back to the present moment. From now until the moment of your death, you could do this.
-From Comfortable with Uncertainty by Pema Chodron (p. 122)
Now that should give us all something to think about today...just see what is. Easy, right? ;)
And now, for my latest favorite artistic marvel that plays with this idea of "seeing what is" in a very different way...
The following artist, Guido Daniele, paints hands (and bodies) to look like animals...and um, he is amazing. Take a look at some of his work below:
To view the artist's personal site with some of his advertising work (also amazing!), click here.
Happy Tuesday and namaste!
Mary Catherine
Succombing to Seasonal Sleep Cycles
I know that I've written about my love of sleep a number of times in the past (and of Ben's love of sleeping in total darkness!), and no, this hasn't changed lately or anything, but what has changed is the amount of sleep that I need these days. I find that although it's been unseasonably warm here in the DC area this fall, my body still knows that both the time and leaves (and technically, the season) have changed--and it wants me to honor that. If this past weekend is any indication, we may be getting ready to go into hibernation over here...
Friday, Saturday, and yes, even Sunday night (!) this past weekend, I got almost 9 hours of sleep. I literally went to bed around 10:30 or 11 every single night, and it was glorious. In the past, I would question this and judge myself a bit, thinking, "what's wrong with me? Am I lazy? Am I coming down with something? Why am I so tired?" But this time around, I'm accepting it as is. I honestly think that in the late fall and winter, our bodies begin to need some time to nest, to slow down, to hibernate, to store up energy for the spring and summer, and to recuperate from all of our go-go-going. But, in our culture we do exactly the opposite in the fall, we run ourselves ragged until the new year, and then jump on board for new year's resolutions and/or big changes in life, never stopping to slow down. Personally, I usually book myself up solid for a month or two surrounding the holidays, and it's only a day or two here and there that I actually get to pause and catch my breath. Um, not. healthy. So this year, although I cannot change all of the scheduling, events, holiday parties and commitments that I've already got noted in my planner, I can make a small change by honoring my body's sleep cycles. And that's just what I intend to do.
In order to truly stay in balance at this time of year, I think we should all pay a little more attention to our need for sleep (and self-care). When it's pitch black outside at 6pm and everything in your being tells you to go home and go to bed early instead of hitting the gym or joining friends for dinner, I say give in. Not every time you have this urge (because working out and socializing is also healthy, hehe!), but on those days when you can tell that you just need the sleep-- when you have no energy left and sleep is all that can cure it. If you need to skip your late-night email time and go to bed at 9:30 in order to wake up at 6:30 and still get 9 hours of sleep, do it. Your body will thank you. I promise :)
I have to admit up front that I'm not the best at this, and I can guarantee that I won't get 9 hours (!!) of sleep on any weeknight this week, but I will do my best to get around 8, and highly recommend getting as much sleep as possible whenever you can. If there's one thing you honor this season, I think it should be your seasonal sleep cycles. There's just nothing that rejuvenates the body like sleep.
And one more time for all my Type-A friends out there: No, it's not lazy! It's NOT! It's healthy and necessary. Sleep is your friend :)
Mary Catherine
The day after a holiday is always a weird day. Depending on where you are and what you're doing, it can be a "vacation day" or it can just go back to daily life. This year, since we stayed in town and enjoyed "friendsgiving," Ben and I are both back to a somewhat normal life today. He's at work (so sad!) and I'm off to teach and get some things done at the studio. But, no matter what you're doing, I find that there's still a magical, relaxing feeling in the air the day after a holiday, and if you're lucky, this feeling lasts right through the weekend. Continuing with the sense of gratitude and holiday cheer that I felt so strongly yesterday, read on to peruse my simple joys of the week--things that I feel extremely grateful to have experienced/come across during the hustle-and-bustle of the past 7 days...
What took you for a sensory ride this week?
Photo via AndThenSome etsy shop.
Hear: Deck the Halls by The Roches
Ever since I can remember, The Roches Christmas album has been one of my favorite soundtracks for the holidays. Sure, there are a few others that are up there with The Roches, but I never feel like it's Christmas until I play their music, especially my favorite song, "Deck the Halls." Their version is super-fun and upbeat, and it makes me incredibly happy to hear it. I played it while we were cooking yesterday, and it was a blast. Take a listen below and get ready to sing along :)
See: This tote from India (and the friend who brought it back for me!)
One of my dear friends came to visit this week--after spending the past year in India! Although we skyped throughout her time there, seeing her reminded me that there's nothing like catching up in person. Also, she brought me some adorable gifts (so sweet!), including this beautiful tote bag that was handmade in the rural areas of Rajasthan. The best part? It was made by a woman artisan as a part of a fair trade organization focused on empowering women, called Sadhna. Love it.
Taste: Um, Thanksgiving food! Obviously.
Look at this spread. It was amazing. We dined with some wonderful friends at their new place yesterday, and it was Thanksgiving-errific. They made a number of delicious (and gourmet!) dishes, and even made a little chart about when everything should go in the oven and at what temp it needed to cook (so cute! I love lists!). We had an insane amount of food for just 4 people, but luckily, we were able to take home tons of leftovers :) While waiting for our too-full bellies to make a little room for dessert, we drank mulled wine and played a competitive game of Cranium. It was the perfect friendsgiving.
Touch: Fall Leaves
All of the small, side-streets and sidewalks of DC are covered with these gorgeous piles of yellow leaves. Every time I walk anywhere I revel in the feel (and really, the sound!) of the fall leaves crunching under my feet. There's just something about these leaves--before the snow falls and covers them up and before they turn to wet, dirty piles of dirt--that is just magnificent. I stopped to take a few pics the other day when I was struck by the beauty...I'm sure I looked a little crazy, but it was worth it...
Smell: Pumpkin pies baking in the oven
Have I mentioned that I love pumpkin everything? I believe that I have. But what I haven't mentioned is that I love pumpkin pie most of all. As does Ben. Last year, I made 2 pies. The day after Thanksgiving, Ben sat down at the table with the second pie and a plate. He took a knife and cut the pie right down the middle. He then proceeded to pick up an ENTIRE half of the pie and place it on his plate. He ate it all.
So maybe Ben likes pumpkin pie just a bit more than I do. But either way, baking pumpkin pies=best. smell. ever.
I hope your week has been filled with equally amazing simple, sensory joys. Here's to a relaxing holiday weekend full of leftovers, gratitude, and loves ones!
Mary Catherine
Happy Thanksgiving!
Happy turkey/Tofurky day, one and all!
I started my Thanksgiving day out with a delicious yoga class a la one of my favorite teachers, Jodi, at TSA, and it was simply divine (as were the 48+ people who showed up for the sold out charity class to benefit SOME!!)! I felt extra-grateful during class today, and had a hard time wiping the big, goofy smile off of my face as I practiced. Why? There was something really wonderful and magical about flowing in a room filled with so many other people on a holiday dedicated to giving thanks. I was overwhelmed with a sense of gratitude for the yoga community that I belong to, for all of the amazing teachers and students who cross my path on a daily basis, and for the practice that brings all of us together. I also felt extremely thankful for my body, my breath, and the postures that help me connect to both. Wow, what an amazing practice! It took Thanksgiving to a whole different level.
No matter how you fill your day today, I hope that you're able to connect to a great sense of gratitude, cherish some time with loved ones, and enjoy a few delectable treats...
Thank YOU for reading my blog and being a part of my life :)
Namaste and gratitude,
Mary Catherine
Join Me: Upcoming Workshops & Events
Happy almost-Thanksgiving, one and all! Before we get carried off into the busy abyss of the holiday season, I wanted to share a few upcoming events that I'll be hosting, in case you want to join moi. The holidays are one of my favorite times of the year, but I think it's still so very important to be sure to take some time out for self-care during all of the hustle-and-bustle. No matter what it is, be sure to pencil-in some time to indulge in a bit of relaxation over the next month or two. An easy way to do so? Join me for one of my upcoming workshops...Photo via yogadork.com
Upcoming Workshops at Tranquil Space Arlington:
Preparing for the Holidays with Restorative Yoga
Saturday, 12/10 from 5-7pm
Feeling stressed, exhausted, or depleted by the holidays? Replenish your mind, body, and spirit with a 45-minute slow flow vinyasa practice followed by 1.15 hours of restorative yoga, meditation, and savasana. We will spend time in poses meant to release emotions and stress, cleanse and heal the body, and calm the mind. Come prepared to let go and relax completely. Appropriate for all levels. $35, $30 if you register online here.
Upcoming Workshops at Tranquil Space Dupont:Photo via vi.sualize.us
Jump into Yoga 2
Friday, 12/9 from 6:30-9pm
A workshop designed to assist students in finding their core strength, learning how to engage it and take their practice to a new level. We will focus on how to use this strength for chaturanga, headstand, and jumping into chaturanga and forward fold. There will be time to explore bakasana (crow) and the beginning of sirsasana (headstand). Please bring your own mat if you have one, a water bottle, hand towel and any questions you have. $40, $35 if you register online here.
Photo via siddhayatan.org
Reflect, Release, & Restore
Saturday, 12/31 from 2-4pm
Join Mary Catherine for an afternoon of reflection, release, and replenishment as we cleanse and restore the body in preparation for 2012. We will spend 75 minutes in a heated vinyasa practice meant to rinse the body and release the heavy emotions, stress, toxins, and tension that can build up over the busy holiday season. We will then close the workshop with 45 minutes spent reflecting on the past year through meditation, restorative poses, journaling, and of course, ending in savasana. Prepare the mind and body for a fresh start in the new year by letting go of 2011 and preparing the spirit for 2012. Bring your mat, water, a journal, and something to write with.$35; $30 if you register online here.
Holiday Show at Studio 4903
Sunday, 12/11 from 12-5pm
Last but certainly not least, join me for a Holiday Art Show at my old studio in DC! There will be a number of extremely talented artists showing and selling their work (as you an see below), and it's a perfect chance to pick up any last-minute gifts for people on your list. Plus, it's a great chance to take in some creative inspiration as the days get fuller and the weeks get busier. What? How do you get there? It's right off of the Tenleytown Metro in DC; it's also very easy to find parking on the streets nearby :) Address and more info below!
Hope you'll join me for one of these upcoming events! If you have any questions, feel free to post to comments :)
Have a wonderful Wednesday--yay for the day before Thanksgiving!
Mary Catherine
Yoga and Narcolepsy
Photo via remrunner.blogspot.com
One of the best parts of being a yoga instructor is the amazing and inspiring students that I get to work with on a daily basis. It's a strange situation at times, because often I'll see a student on their mat 2-3 times per week; I'll know their name, their body, their injuries, their practice, and a few tidbits about their daily life here and there, but sometimes it will take months before I find out what else they've got going on outside of the studio--and often, when I do finally find out, I'm completely inspired. This happened most recently in the case of a Tranquil Space Arlington student named Julie Fylgare. I knew Julie's name and her practice, I could tell she had a passion for yoga, and that she was a regular in our classes. But what I didn't know was that off of the mat, Julie was writing a memoir about her struggles with Narcolepsy, and that she was becoming a well-known, recognized spokesperson for the illness.
Julie was recently featured in Marie Claire, and just last week, NBC Washington did a piece on her. I wanted to share this segment today, because I'm truly inspired by the work that Julie is doing as she spreads the news and raises awareness of Narcolepsy. Something else that I love about her story? Yoga has played a great part in her journey, as has running. She's even shown practicing yoga at TSA at the beginning of the segment! Word on the street is that the piece that aired talked a bit more about her yoga practice (sad that I can't share the full version here!), but at least we still get a glimpse at it :)
Take a look at Julie's story below:
View more videos at: http://nbcwashington.com.
To read more about Julie and her journey, check out her personal blog, here.
Also, since it is Thanksgiving week, after all, I wanted to give a BIG, special thank you to Julie and to all of my students for being such a constant source of inspiration in my life. This is why I love. my. job.
Mary Catherine
Intrigued by Ayurveda
This past weekend I once again spent (almost) every waking moment in Advanced Teacher Training at TS. Of course, as always, my brain was filled with loads of amazing, interesting, and inspiring information all weekend--much of which I still need time to process, but, in our session on Ayurveda, the "sister science to yoga," I was completely enamored, and now, I believe, completely hooked.
My first real introduction to Ayurveda was during my first Teacher Training training in 2009, and I remember being extremely interested then, too. But, as often happens in life, I got busy, forgot about the importance of understanding my constitution (and the constitution of others, and of the season, and the time of day, etc.), and it simply dropped to the back of my mind. But yesterday, my interest was reignited and I've decided to start working on learning how to eat and live according to my dosha. No idea what I'm talking about? Here are the basics (my own summary from the workshop that I attended with the amazing Anne Thiel yesterday):
Here's are two helpful charts that break down the doshas a bit (neither is as detailed as I'd like them to be, but they're a good basic intro)...the following one gives a few generic mind-body basics about each dosha:
And this one talks more about the physical attributes of the various doshas:
Pretty interesting, huh? Since I'm fairly new to Ayurveda, I can't go on about it too much, but do want to say that if you have any interest in learning more about your dosha, it's crazy interesting. I loved learning more about my constitution (no wonder I usually overbook myself---it's part of my dosha to expend more energy than I conserve!), and felt that it was really nice to know that I'm genetically predisposed to do some of the things that I do--but also to know that I act the way that I do sometimes because my dosha is out of balance, not because I'm crazy :) And no, it's not an excuse for negative behaviors, but rather, teaches us how to make changes so that we can keep some of these behaviors or feelings in check.
Another fun part of learning about the doshas is that you learn more about the people in your life. You recognize the possible doshas for some of your friends or family, your significant other, your coworkers, etc., and can begin to understand a bit more about how and why they function the way that they do. It's like the Myers-Briggs, only ancient-Indian and yoga-style (AND with diet and lifestyle prescriptions that go along with it!). Very cool.
Looking for a good survey/questionnaire that will help you determine your dosha? Click here to check out the "Body Type Quiz" on LifeSpa.com. I found this one very helpful.
I'll keep you updated as I begin to live and eat in accordance with my dosha...
Mary Catherine
Pressing Pause for Poetry: Richard Newman
You may have heard the phrase in this movie...
As often happens for me, this poem came into to my inbox from American Life in Poetry last week, and I totally fell in love. Not only is it hysterical--pointing out the ridiculousness of the southern phrase "bless their hearts--" but it's also really, really clever and perfect to share this week (since Thanksgiving is just around the corner). Enjoy! I hope it makes you smile as much as it does me. You can read more about the poet, Richard Newman, here.
Bless Their Hearts
At Steak 'n Shake I learned that if you add
"Bless their hearts" after their names, you can say
whatever you want about them and it's OK.
My son, bless his heart, is an idiot,
she said. He rents storage space for his kids'
toys—they're only one and three years old!
I said, my father, bless his heart, has turned
into a sentimental old fool. He gets
weepy when he hears my daughter's greeting
on our voice mail. Before our Steakburgers came
someone else blessed her office mate's heart,
then, as an afterthought, the jealous hearts
of the entire anthropology department.
We bestowed blessings on many a heart
that day. I even blessed my ex-wife's heart.
Our waiter, bless his heart, would not be getting
much tip, for which, no doubt, he'd bless our hearts.
In a week it would be Thanksgiving,
and we would each sit with our respective
families, counting our blessings and blessing
the hearts of family members as only family
does best. Oh, bless us all, yes, bless us, please
bless us and bless our crummy little hearts.
Isn't that just great? At least for those of you from the South--you should definitely get it :)
Thanks for checking in and pressing pause with me today!
Mary Catherine
As another week goes hurdling by at lightning speed, I'm glad to have a chance to stop, pause, and reflect on the simple joys that I was lucky enough to experience over the past 7 days. I'm trying to hold on to any spare moment that I have to slow down before the holidays hit (although they're kind of already here!), and encourage you to do the same...
What brought you happiness this week? My simple joys are below:
Hear: Jaia Ganesha by The Dum Dum Project
So I have to admit that I "stole" this song from another teacher's playlist, but I'm so glad that I did because I absolutely love practicing and teaching to it! Its a great song to play during the first half of the class, when you're warming up/building heat and looking to bring up the energy. It's great! Admitedly, I know nothing about the artist/band, but I sure do enjoy the song :) Take a listen below...
See: My wedding dress!
Yep, you read right, I got it last weekend! I'm THRILLED with the dress and it really was one of those magical moments that people tell you about...I didn't think that it happened that way, and really didn't think that I would "just know" when I'd found my dress, but I 100% did. I walked out of the dressing room and saw my friend Kelly's face--then I looked in the mirror--and that was it! After trying on what feels like hundreds of dresses, I've found the dress. I can't wait to wear it...in a year (isn't that weird?). Yippee!
Taste: Edamame
I've always loved Edamame, and when I lived alone in NYC, used to make it a lot for a snack or with dinner. Well, last night I brought it back--and was so happy I did! Edamame is super-easy to make--you basically buy them frozen and boil for 5 mins, or you can even buy them unfrozen and microwave (!)-- and as long as you have some sea salt (another one of my faves!), they taste just like they do at a restaurant. I basically just had a bag for dinner last night, and it was delish + full of protein. Yum :)
Touch: Rain boots + snuggly fleece socks
I finally got a chance to wear my rain boots (a la Wal Mart!) and new snuggly fleece boot socks this past week...SO comfortable. I bought these boots for $20 in a desperate situation when all I had were flats and flip flops for 4 days at a cabin in the woods + constant rain, and they were one of the best $20 buys I've made in a long time. I've already gotten tons of use out of them, and then I found these socks a few weeks ago, and am excited to be able to take the boots into the winter with the help of these snuggly foot warmers! Great combo and my feet were happy, warm, and dry this week ;)
Smell: Vintage books/paper
I know I've been raving about vintage paper goods this week, but they're really amazing! Ever since visiting a flea market on Saturday, I've been completely obsessed. The smell of old books and old paper is also really special--yes, it's a bit musty, but it also just screams out "I'm old and have seen many things." It's so exciting to think about all of the people who have owned or touched these objects over the years. Want more details about why I'm inspired by these items? Read Monday's post or yesterday's post to see how I'm using these paper goods in my art. I'm also thinking about how I can use the books in a creative way in our wedding...
Well, now I'm off to a day of teaching and a weekend full of Advanced Teacher Training...have a glorious Friday and wonderful weekend!
Be mindful of the simple joys and don't forget to stop and appreciate them from time to time...
Mary Catherine
Just Picture It: Art Inspired by Titles
Oh, today? I've just been painting my heart out :) And it was all about taking some time for myself--to paint what I want to paint and to have some fun! I have two more commissions to start next week, so in between finishing the illustrations for Tranquilolgie (which I tied a bow on this morning!) and getting started on these works, I thought I would just take some time to play and experiment. And play, I did! Using some of the new vintage paper goods that I picked up at a flea market last weekend, I allowed myself to be inspired by the materials--mainly the chapter and page titles from vintage books--and went to town. Here's a glimpse at my idea of going wild (I'm crazy, I know!) on my painting day...
And of course, because no day of painting would be complete without some paintings of a dress or two, I decided to do a few quick sketches on the following pages from a vintage book...I LOVE the old text and chapter titles!
Sorry for the fuzzy, crooked pictures, but I think I was so excited that I was shaking the camera ;)
Nothing like a day dedicated solely to creativity! Nothing. Can't wait to finish these paintings next week...
Mary Catherine
As you should know by now, I'm always on the lookout for creative & unique artistic inspiration. Today's artists are no different in terms of their uniqueness than many that I have posted before--both are extremely talented oil painters who, interestingly enough, both often paint figures with their faces hidden in some way. It's really interesting! Take a look at what I mean by this below...
Artist #1: Ana Teresa Fernandez
I adore her work! Although you may not be able to tell right away, she is making a somewhat feminist statement about the double-standard imposed on women (angel vs. whore, clean vs. dirty, etc), by depicting women in somewhat sexy outfits while performing household chores. Not only does her work have something to say, but her paintings are also beautifully-painted and executed. A few of my faves are below, but you can view more of her work on her website, here.
Artist #2: Craig Hawkins
Hawkins has done a pretty vast series of people hidden under boxes. He says about his work, it's a "series that seeks to question the way we hide. Dealing with isolation, and compartmentalizing. What feels safe and comfortable may not always be beneficial. We were created with the need for community, and communication beyond ourselves..." Again, a talented artist who also has something to say! Check his work out below and view more of his paintings on his website, here.
Hope that you've been a bit inspired today! I know that I have--and that I can't wait to get out my paintbrushes tomorrow...
Have a creative Wednesday!
Mary Catherine
Tuesday Afternoon Tea Time
Oh, you know, just a pic of me enjoying my tea ;)
There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea. ~Henry James, The Portrait of a Lady
Okay, so sadly, I don't have an hour each afternoon to dedicate to "the ceremony known as afternoon tea," and I doubt that you do, either. But, what a lovely idea, no? And what I have found recently is that there really is nothing that helps me slow down more than brewing a cup of tea around 3 or 4pm and just taking a moment to stop and take a few sips. I know, it sounds indulgent, but trust me, it's not. It's mandatory...
Today, for instance, after a bustling day of meeting after meeting (luckily, though, a day that did start with some AM yoga!), I finally got the chance to sit down, pause, and catch my breath around 3:30pm. I brewed a cup of tea, took a few deep breaths as I allowed it to cool, and gave myself a chance to stop and just be present for a moment...and wow, was it nice! I know that so many of us don't have the luxury of being able to take much time to stop and pause each day, but I've found that taking some time for an afternoon break is a great reminder to breathe--even if it's just for a few minutes, or a few sips--before heading off again to finish up my day. Even if you're stuck at your desk, or you only have 5 minutes between meetings, try to think about finding a way to take a moment for yourself during even your busiest of days--or, especially during your busiest of days!
A great way to remind yourself to do so? Create an afternoon ritual. Whether it's tea, coffee, a stretch break, a 5-minute walk outside, or even a 2-minute walk down the hall, give yourself a moment just for you each day. Set the alarm on your phone or a reminder in Outlook, and just make it a habit. That way, each day you'll have that moment to count on--a chance to breathe deeply, check in with your stress-level, your posture, the state of your mind and body, and your energy-level. And maybe, over time, you can even begin to check-in more than once per day...but for now, let's just start with 1x daily :)
My recommendation? Brew a cup of tea. Blow on it to cool it, breathe deeply, and then savor every last drop. Not while writing emails or surfing facebook--while doing nothing else. Nothing else.
Now doesn't that sound nice? I'll leave you with this, the words of Bernard-Paul Heroux: "there is no trouble so great or grave that cannot be much diminished by a nice cup of tea."
Now I'm off to finish mine in silence :)
Mary Catherine
Le Week-end of Vintage Inspiration
This past weekend, my out-of-town guest (& BFF!), Kelly, and I were the queens of having-no-plans-and-just-exploring. Each day we would wake up without much of an idea of what we were going to do, and would just hit the streets to see where the day would take us. It was so refreshing! We had a great time and were just able to do whatever we felt like doing in the moment. Ultimately, this led to a lot of walking outside (in the gorgeous weather), browsing antiques at a flea market, shopping, chatting on benches while we took breaks, and stopping when we were famished to enjoy brunch or an afternoon treat. One of the things that I had forgotten recently (in my busy, yoga-filled life) is how much creative inspiration you can find just walking around and taking in the sights...
Since it ended up being a somewhat vintage-inspired weekend with our stop at the flea market, I wanted to share the shots that I did remember to snap (sadly, not enough!) of inspiring items that I picked up and displays that we came across on our journeys. Enjoy!
I also fell in love with piles of vintage brooches (so enamored I forgot to take pictures!), vintage "woman's lib" posters, and a number of collections of vintage cameras. Amazing. Why does everything old look so darn classy?
Have an inspiring Monday!
Mary Catherine
Happy 11.11.11, all! Crazy fun with numbers, isn't it? I don't know why, but these oddly numbered days always make me happy :)
Anyways, I'm super-excited today because my BFF (and future Maid of Honor!) Kelly came in town last night, and we have a full weekend of talking, fun meals, yoga, and wedding dress shopping (the search continues...) ahead of us. As I always say, there's NOTHING like spending time with your besties. So, before I jet off to bounce around town with my dear Kel, here are my simple, sensory joys of the week.
What made you smile over the past 7 days?
Hear: Pink Friday by Nicki Minaj
A year or two ago, my little brother told me, "Mary Catherine, have you heard Nicki Minaj? You would love her. She's the best female rapper out there." Well, I'm old now and it takes me a lot longer to figure things out, but he was right! As a HUGE fan of rap and of powerful female artists, I think she's pretty incredible. Yes, she's can be kind of nasty and definitely says some crazy things, but doesn't every rapper? I say good for her for going out there and doing what the boys do--much better than a lot of them do! And good for me--now I have a bunch of new female power music to listen to while I'm painting! Listen to one of her tracks that really shows off her rapping skills below (warning: not for those who don't like rap--or curse words!)...
See: This Cupcake Tree. OMG.
I found this image on one of my favorite wedding blogs, Green Wedding Shoes, and fell head-over-heels in love with it. I mean, what could possibly be better than a tree of cupcakes? It's completely adorable and I want one! Not sure if it will actually happen in my wedding (or in my lifetime), but I want one! As I mentioned in my post on Wednesday, I've been scouring the wedding blogosphere for creative and unique ideas, and I just can't get enough. People think up the most amazing things!!!
Taste: New Tea Organizer from Ikea!
Remember how I've been crazy obsessed with tea lately? Well, playing right into this obsession, look what I bought at Ikea this week!? A tea organizer! How amazing is that? I've actually been wanting one for a while, but just hadn't gotten myself together enough to even look for one online, so I was pleasantly surprised when I found this Floogen (just kidding! no idea what they called it...) in the world's largest store. I know you can't taste it, but now I can find--and taste--my tea much more easily, so I think it works ;) And it was probably only like $1.99 or something!
Photo via afullheart.com
Smell: Crisp fall air
I know that I've already raved about the fall this week, but I really do just adore it and I think you can smell it in the air...everything smells clean, cool, crisp (did I already say this? And did I mention that this is one of my favorite words?). During one of my noon yoga classes this week we left the door to the studio open for the entire afternoon and it was just sublime. Can't. Get. Enough.
Touch: Leg Warmers from Sock Dreams (my new favorite sock shop!!!!!)
Okay, I know that the name of this site is SUPER cheesy, but actually, it really does sell the socks of your dreams--promise :) Last week I bought 2 pairs of leg warmers and 2 pairs of knee-high socks (both are perfect for wearing over leggings to yoga on a cool day!), and when they arrived I was giddy. The packaging was so special (recycled paper tags wrapped around the socks with matching strands of yarn) and all of the socks are super-soft and comfy. A fun way to spice up your fall wardrobe for cheap!
And that's it for now! Did you ever think you would see a picture of Nicki Minaj and a tea organizer in the same post? Hehe ;)
Have a wonderful weekend!
Mary Catherine
I'm Mary Catherine, a Cape Cod-based yoga teacher, painter, designer, writer, mom, and list-maker extraordinaire. My goal is to inspire you to start living a more creative, simple, joyful, + purposeful life.
{Learn more + read my story}


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NEXT. Discover Art at Hemphill Branch Library. Hemphill Branch Library. The Greensboro Public Library (GPL) aims to partner with the community to provide free and equal access to information, to foster lifelong learning, and to inspire the joys of reading.
Download Policy: Content on the Website is provided to you AS IS for your information and personal use and may not be sold / licensed / shared on other websites without getting consent from its author.While downloading, if for some reason you are not able to download a presentation, the publisher may have deleted the file from their server.
Discover Art at
Hemphill Branch Library
The Greensboro Public Library (GPL) aims to partner with the community to provide free and equal access to information, to foster lifelong learning, and to inspire the joys of reading.
At GPL's Hemphill Branch Library, these goals are combined with a unique focus on art.
The Library has partnered with the Green Hill Center for North Carolina Art to provide a place where you can view art exhibitions, where children can create art, and where everyone can find art resources and inspiration.
Discover Art at Hemphill Branch Library
Kids Create
Get Inspired!
Find Art Resources
From DVDs to books to online resources, Hemphill Branch Library has a large collection of art-related materials. Here are some resources to help you find what you are looking for.
Art Materials in the Catalog
Art Images Online
Whether you are looking for books about drawing, a source to teach you how to knit, a documentary about Georgia O'Keefe, or something that can tell you about Cubism, you can find it at Hemphill Branch Library.
Most art-related materials can be found in the 700 call numbers in the non-fiction section. If you are looking for something specific, try searching the catalog.
Learn about the Catalog
It's as easy as…
On the library's webpage, type what you are looking for in the box and click what you want to search ("title browse" if you know the title, "subject browse" when you are looking for a topic)
It's as easy as…
Click the result that looks most relevant to what you want.
It's as easy as…
If you searched for a specific title, this will take you to the record for the item. If you are browsing by subject, this will take you to a list of titles. Click the title you like best to see more information about it, such as location or summary.
Try again.
Now let's see how well you can search. Can you find the author of Van Gogh: The Life?
Click the correct author on the right to see how well you did.
Carl Adam Johan Nordenfalk
Great Job!
Steven Naifeh and Gregory White Smith
Try again.
Carol Sabbeth
Let's practice one more time. What is the title of the book about pop art that was written by Greenberg and Jordan?
Click the correct title on the right to see how well you did.
Great Job!
Andy Warhol: Prince of Pop
Pop Art…And After
Make it Pop!
Try again.
Try again.
Your library card allows you access to online resources through NC Live. NC Live offers a number of databases and tools for research, including CAMIO, which catalogs images all types of art.
To access CAMIO, look for the link under the C's in the library's database list. CAMIO lets you browse by type of art, or search for something specific. All of the images on this page came from CAMIO.
Giovanni Antonio Boltraffio, Head of a Woman
Claes Oldenburg, Shoestring Potatoes Spilling from a Bag
Vincent van Gogh, Sunflowers
Claude Monet, Camille Monet and a Child in the Artist's Garden in Argenteuil
Andy Warhol, The Velvet Underground and Nico
Art Around the Story
Hemphill Branch Library offers art-themed programming just for children. From painting to knitting, kids can explore many facets of their creativity in the library. Follow the links on the right to explore what the library has to offer.
Studio Plus
Red, Yellow, Blue
Event Calendar
Thursdays 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Preschool stories, songs, and finger plays, followed by an art activity in the ArtQuest Studio. The storytime and the craft follow the same theme, ranging from shapes to trains, from ice cream to growing up.
Fridays 3:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Painting in the ArtQuest Studio for kids of all ages (young children must be supervised). Previous projects include gadget painting (see below), bubble painting, and free painting.
Fridays 9:30 am – 10:15 am, Session repeats at 10:30 am – 11:15 am
Art exploration for kids of all ages (young children must be supervised). A variety of themes and techniques are explored.
As a part of Hemphill's mission as the art branch of GPL, the library features a selection of permanent and temporary art exhibits. The permanent art is all around the building, and includes some projects made during special library programs. The temporary exhibits vary seasonally.
At Hemphill, we provide art materials, programs, and exhibits, not only for educational purposes, but also so you can be inspired by art in your world.
Check out our Reading Garden or the tree house in the children's department. Or, take a look at art images online, at our art materials, or one of our exhibits.
Hemphill Branch Library works with the Green Hill Center to create art exhibits and programs that educate and inspire.
The ArtQuest Studio, located in the children's department, is supported by our partners. In addition to housing special events, the studio is always open for young patrons to work on small projects independently.
Discover Art at Hemphill (Title Page)
Intro 1 - GPL and Hemphill
Intro 2 – Art and Hemphill
Main Menu – 5 Choices
Kids Create – 3 Choices + Link to Calendar
Finding Art Resources – 2 Choices
Green Hill Center
Get Inspired
Art Around the Story
Red, Yellow, Blue
Studio Plus
Images Online
Catalog Menu
Catalog Instruction 1
Created by Amanda Wilkerson
*Except for the clip art on slide 4 and the images from CAMIO on slide 11, I took all of the pictures myself.
Catalog Instruction Assessment
Catalog Instruction Assessment
Catalog Instruction 2
Catalog Instruction 3
Site Map

subset: commoncrawl


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In today's Fortune Magazine, David Kirkpatrick asks "Is Facebook worth your time?" He argues that many adults probably won't find utility in the social network and need a reason to sign up.
One reason, he suggests, is the "news feed" which is a running list of what your friends have been up to since you last checked in. Agreed, that's pretty useful. I value my friends, which means that I value their opinions and am interested in their activities. So, for me, it's a passive way to keep up with them in a fast-paced digital world.
For example, in my feed today I saw some terrific photos that friends uploaded from the Papal visit to the White House earlier this week, found out that 20 of my friends and I are all attending the same conference in June, saw a congratulatory note from one friend to another for a job well done, and learned about three new groups that had formed on issues where I have interest.
I recently saw an ad on Facebook asking viewers of NBC's "Friday Night Lights" to sign an online petition to convince the network execs to change their decision to cancel the show. As a fan, I have FNL listed among my favorites on my profile and assume the ad appeared as a result. So, I obliged and added my name to the list of supporters.
In addition to other online efforts to save the show, fans mailed in thousands of plastic footballs to the studio. The network got the message and shortly thereafter, I was pleased to read about NBC's agreement with DIRECTV to share production costs thus ensuring the show's survival for a third season. From the release…
In response to an evolving media marketplace and the changing needs of its advertisers, NBC Universal has created a more innovative, client-centric approach to its traditional Upfront presentation.
I never would have known about any of that without Facebook. Sure, this is a trivial example when compared to much more important global issues and I do agree that there are a lot of meaningless, fun and silly apps on Facebook (SuperPoke, I am looking in your direction). I have certainly installed and uninstalled more than my share. Read: Please, no more "Friends for Sale" or "Knighthood" invites! However, I merely mention it to make the larger point that there is some utility there, as well.
Back to the question, "Is it worth it?" As for me, the answer is yes. Honestly though, I think the real answer depends on the user. Kirkpatrick states the obvious here …
For the News Feed to work properly though, you need to have a fair number of Facebook friends and you need to regularly do things inside Facebook. And it is on that score that many adults fall down.
Of course, in order to benefit from the knowledge of others, one needs to know and engage with "others" (and not in a LOST sorta way!)
Seriously, nothing is useful if you don't invest some time in it – whether it's a face-to-face conversation, a phone call, a letter, an email or online in Facebook or Twitter. For anyone looking to connect, one needs to engage, find community and participate.
What he misses here is the movement toward social media aggregators (FriendFeed, Lijit, SocialThing) and OpenID that enables content to be shared between platforms and not limited to one site or the other. In this approach, the connection becomes more about the medium rather than the specific source site.
Kirkpatrick seems to criticize Facebook's utility throughout the entire article, but concludes that for those looking to stay connected, it's worth a "dive in."
Well, it's not just about diving in, you need to move your arms and legs in order to swim!


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"I was ~65kgs when I started and now I'm at 56kgs! Before I did the 8WTC I was already eating really healthy - no refined sugar, vegan, no alcohol, no smoking, limited gluten intake (once or twice a week) but I didn't really do any workouts to target areas, just cardio (I walk a minimum of 6-8km a day as I don't have a car and I jump on my giant trampoline a lot too haha). I started eating better in September last year when I was at 86kgs, since then I've basically lost 5kg a month since quitting refined sugar haha. It's insane! Your challenge has helped me in so many ways though! It has helped me begin exercising in ways where I can actually feel AND SEE a difference. I am now more toned, fitter and stronger. I used to collapse after a 20 second plank and now I can hit over a minute happily! I can also walk a lot faster without getting too puffed out after a few km! I still can't do a proper pushup, but I am getting there slowly! I can't wait!"
"Thank you to boss lady Rach and boss man Beau for giving me the tools and guidance to go from slug to jungle cat. You guys are awesome. Seriously. Having my workouts for the weeks planned out, teamed with the guidance of what foods to gravitate toward and which to try and avoid made me feel the best I have EVER felt. I am strong, I am fit and I am healthy. (And hell, if I can conquer mountain climbers and plank ups, I can conquer anything).
"First of all - thank you! As a kid and young adult I had always been very athletic and fit. I competed for Australia as a dancer and an Ice Figure Skater at a National level. However, at the beginning of 2013 I was diagnosed with a brain tumour which seriously affected my overall physical health and mental health. I had treatment through 2013 and had surgery in 2014. I have since been beating myself up about my very poor fitness level. My doctor told me a few months ago that I need to get back in shape because I need to give myself the best opportunity to recovery. After doing this 8 week challenge I am so proud of myself for learning to harness my frustrations into a positive attitude towards working out. I have lost 8kg and have gained a positive outlook! My general happiness and fitness have really improved - I work in a childcare centre and now I actually look forward to going to work and playing and running around with the children because I no longer feel 'puffed'. My body shape, fitness, happiness and even skin have all improved!!
Thank you so much for giving us ALL the tools we need to succeed. This is the first challenge I've ever done where I didn't skip a single work out. I will admit I let myself down by not always eating how I should but I am not disheartened because I know I have worked my butt off (my current goal is to stick to a good diet!) Once again thank you so much - I finally feel like 'me' again and I know I am going to smash through all my future fitness and health goals too!"
"Thank you and Beau so much for everything! for someone who's struggled so long with my weight, this challenge and the success at the end was what I needed to get back on track to being the best I can physically be! Thanks a billion."


text:
You can't watch movies and TV shows on your device just yet
But you can still browse and buy
Sorry, but TalkTalk TV Store movies and TV shows are currently only available in the UK
Rent, buy and watch the latest movies and TV shows online
How it works
Browse the latest movies and TV
TalkTalk TV Store has more of the latest movies and TV shows than our competitors.
Pay for what you want to watch
No subscription, so you only pay when you rent or buy a movie or TV show, from just 99p.
Enjoy on a range of devices
TalkTalk TV Store is available on PC, Mac, mobile, tablets and Chromecast.
From acclaimed director Ken Loach, comes this astonishing story of triumph and adversity in modern day Britain. Daniel Blake has worked as a joiner most of his life in Newcastle. Now, for the first time ever, he needs help from the State. He crosses paths with single mother Katie who is battling to keep her two young children fed. Daniel and Katie find themselves in a no-man's land, striving to pull themselves out of the welfare bureaucracy of modern day Britain.
Award winning and critically lauded, I, Daniel Blake, is the vital film for our times.
Asset Details
- Genre
- Certificate 15
Very strong language
- Run Time
1 hour 40 minutes
- Released
- Cast & Crew
Dave Johns Hayley Squires Sharon Percy Briana Shann Ken Loach
Viewing options
- Watch online
PC, Mac, Chromecast, iPad, iPhone, Android phones and tablets, Windows phones and tablets, Xbox smart TVs, set-top boxes and Blu-ray players.
- Find out more
- Download
Download on iOS 8+, Android 4.0+ and Windows 8.1+ in app. Includes rentals.
- Find out more


text:
From the mechanic's workshop to the world market leader: 175 years in fast motion
Starlinger has already been active in mechanical engineering since 1835 when it traded under the name of Franz Laubek. Since then it has evolved from a company specializing in stationary steam engines and drive elements to an important supplier to the textile industry.
Under the management of Franz Starlinger in the 1920s to the 1940s the company still focused on the Austrian textile industry and supplied high-quality winders and auxiliary machines such as lace and trimming machines. The foundation for today's corporation, however, was laid in 1959 when the company was taken over by Erna and Franz Xaver Starlinger-Huemer.
The gradual internationalization of the company began when the first export-oriented product was introduced: circular looms for weaving fabric from plastic tapes which revolutionized the standards at that time. During the following decades the portfolio around that core product was constantly extended, from tape extrusion lines in the year 1990 and recycling lines in 2000 up to PET reprocessing lines in 2005. Today Starlinger is a globally recognized supplier in the field of flexible woven plastic packaging and leader in the area of PET recycling and PET refinement. In 2007 Starlinger's achievements for the Austrian economy were acknowledged by being awarded the Austrian export price in the category "Industry".
Offices in Chicago and Greenville (USA), New Delhi (India), Moscow (Russia), Beijing and Taicang (China), as well as in São Paulo (Brazil) emphasize how important it is for Starlinger to be close to their customers.
The Starlinger Group was formed by taking over companies from similar branches, starting with MAPLAN in Ternitz in 1991, SML in Lenzing in 1995 and the German Georg Sahm GmbH in Eschwege in 2002. Today it employs more than 920 persons and achieves an annual turnover of about 250 million euros.
2010: Anniversary, record turnover, new products
"The year after the global financial and economic crisis is not only our anniversary year but also the year with the highest turnover in the company's 175 year long history", says Angelika Huemer, managing partner and daughter of the late Franz X. Starlinger Huemer who deceased in 2002, proudly. "Our order books are full until well into the next year. Already at the beginning of the fiscal year 2010/2011 we therefore introduced a second shift in the factory in Austria and increased the product diversity for the Asian market in our factory in Taicang, China."
It is no coincidence that attributes such as technology leadership, world market leader and only turnkey plant supplier worldwide are mentioned in connection with Starlinger. Starlinger's customers are used to always getting the latest and most innovative products. The year 2010, too, is characterized by a number of new products, some of which were developed in collaboration with renowned international partners such as SABIC, Haver & Boecker and Dow Chemical as well as the Turkish producer of printing machines, REMAK. "The product life cycle of our machines and plants is often substantially longer than in comparable branches. Nevertheless, we will be able to introduce completely new or advanced products in almost every field in autumn 2010. At the upcoming K 2010 our visitors will certainly be in for a surprise or two", Angelika Huemer continues. "Also in this regard the year 2010 should become a milestone in the company's history."
All innovations will be presented in autumn at the International Plastics Trade Fair K 2010 in Düsseldorf, Germany (October 27 – November 3, 2010) in hall 16B47 and 9D21, and in the course of Starlinger's in-house exhibition from October 25 to November 5, 2010 in Weissenbach/Triesting, Austria.


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Skin care is an area of your beauty regime that requires careful attention, but are you using products that do the job they promise? It's all too easy to spend money on, for example, anti-ageing lotion that turns out to be ineffective, so we have the answer you are looking for with the best cosmetics in South Africa.
We recommend that you check out the extensive range of best eye cream and beauty products – for both men and women – from Babor, a company that has extensive experience in the field. Furthermore, they are dedicated to formulating products using only natural active ingredients, so you get safety and effectiveness in one package.
You can check out their full range of excellent products at the website, where you will find more information on Babor, its history and its dedication to research and development, so why not have a look right now and see how you can get everything you need from this one online shop.


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Compilations / Mixes
Ex-Wise Heads: Celestial Disclosure
If the name Ex-Wise Heads is unfamiliar, its two musicians are considerably less so, as the group boasts former Henry Cow member Geoff Leigh (saxophones, flutes, keyboards, programming, electronics) and Porcupine Tree's Colin Edwin (fretless and double basses, programming) as members. Their third Ex-Wise Heads full-length, Celestial Disclosure, captures their heady blend of jazz, funk, electronica, and global music in full flight. Originally released in 2007 in a vinyl format, it now appears on CD with a bonus track, Manikarnika, that was recorded at the same sessions as the original two pieces and which adds Indian-born acoustic guitarist Rajan Spolia to the mix. All three pieces are long-form, which makes them feel somewhat stream-of-consciousness in character. Though they feature soloing, the pieces aren't pure improvs, however, as pre-planned compositional structures are clearly evident.
After five minutes of at-times spooky atmospheric sound scultping, Heliosphere settles into an explorative episode of fretless bass-and-tabla playing that isn't unlike something Bill Laswell served up on his 1988 solo album Hear No Evil. Electronic touches and percussive accents also simmer in the background before drums enter, followed by Leigh's robust soprano sax attack. With seventeen minutes at its disposal, the track has ample room to pursue mutliple pathways and so caps that uptempo section with a meditative one featuring flute and bowed double bass. Like the opening piece, the slightly longer Solar Mass starts unhurriedly, with a curdling synthetic drone the initial focal point before the material enters a laid-back section where Edwin's beautiful bass tone is given a few moments in the spotlight. His tasteful playing, always supportive of whatever's happening in the moment, is one of the album's prime selling points. Leigh's flute and saxophone playing also proves to be a major part of the music's appeal, as shown by the mournful flute solo he contributes to the piece's second half and the rather Eastern-flavoured sax solo that comes after. On Manikarnika, Spolia's acoustic guitar playing adds a contrasting sound to the mix. Ex-Wise Heads' affinity for Eastern-styled mysticism is prominently felt within the piece when the guitarist solos against a pedal-point drone at the track's start before Edwin's fretless bass and Leigh's flute eventually recast it as a funky meditation. The bonus track is as tasty as the other two, so much so that one presumes it was omitted from the vinyl release purely on grounds of space issues.
November 2010


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To authenticate every customer who calls your contact center, you need something from them. Whether it's a password or last four digits of their Social Security number, this information helps financial institutions determine the identity of the caller. While this has long been a common practice with banks, using personally identifiable information (PII) to authenticate customers over the telephone is no longer necessary. And here's why.
Relying on PII in 2014 is not as reliable, or predictive, as it used to be. Crooks already have the information in hand before they place the call. At the point a bank representative picks up the phone, challenge questions are a mere formality to gaining access to somebody's personal account. In some cases, the bad guys can answer security questions as swiftly, and more accurately than the actual person.
Today, depending on knowledge-based authentication (KBA) to identify customers over the telephone channel is like handing over your house keys to a stranger wearing a mask of your most trusted friend. The criminal may look and act the part, but they're anything but the real thing. Operating with a false sense of security can actually put your customer and private banking data at a greater risk for longer periods of time.
The problem with PII-based authentication solutions is they allow crooks to make their way onto a phone system, whether it's the IVR or talking to an actual agent. Criminals can always claim that they've lost their key or forgot their password and call center agents are trained to still help them along. As soon as they start talking to a bank rep, the crook already has the upper hand on the predictable challenge questions they've prepared for. As for legitimate customers, when an bank agent picks up the phone they must first endure a lengthy interrogation before getting to the business at hand, even if they've been a longtime loyal customer of the bank.
But what if you could skip the interrogation process altogether? Would if you could authenticate customers without needing any sensitive customer data at all? While it moves away from traditional KBA methods of telephone authentication, many financial institutions are starting to see the security and operational benefits of identifying customers without relying on PII.
Because it doesn't rely on PII and authenticates the calling party number pre-answer, the TRUSTID® Physical Caller Authentication tool delivers perhaps the fastest, most powerful identification credential in the industry. With TRUSTID, banks no longer have to increase their security risk by sending sensitive customer data to a third-party vendor.
TRUSTID's real-time telephone network forensics automatically validates the authenticity of the actual calling device (whether it's a landline or mobile phone) before the inbound call is picked up to instantly identify and stop spoofed calls from being routed to an IVR system or to a bank agent. As a result of invisibly preventing bad calls from making their way into the phone system, TRUSTID saves bank contact centers valuable time and resources by removing the need to conduct costing PII telephone interrogations on known high-risk calls.


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One of the essential elements for a small business owner to assess before starting a small business is to understand their market. This is crucial and the data that is collected will one determine how to appropriately price their products and/or service.
Assessing a market helps small business owners define their goals, analyze their competition, and develop a unique selling proposition. Marketing research also assists in:
*creating a primary and alternative sales approaches to a given market,
* making profit projections from more accurate databases,
* organizing marketing activities,
* developing critical short- and mid-term sales goals and establishing the markets profit boundaries
There are specific questions that potential the small business owners should seek to answer while doing their research. These questions include:
* Who are the customers?
* Where are they located?
* What are their needs and resources?
* Is the service or product essential in their operations or activities?
* Can the customer afford the service or product?
* Where can a demand for the service or product or service be created?
* Can one compete effectively in price, quality and delivery?
* How many competitors provide the same service or product?
* What areas within the market are declining or growing?
Research on Competitors
Research on competitors is extremely important. Some ideal places to complete additional research on competitors include visiting industry trade shows to find out what competitors are selling and how they are market their products. Similarly, staying current on industry magazines and publications is helpful as well.
Marketing research is not something that ever stops. It should be an essential part of an overall marketing strategy and plan for any small business owner.
Pricing Products and Services
There are several pricing strategies one can select for a small business. The small business owner should use the approach that will make their good or service the most competitive and increase profits. Common pricing strategies are pricing below the competition, pricing above the competition, price lining, multiple pricing, and identifying cost factors and then pricing accordingly.
Pricing Above the Competition
This approach will reduce the profit margin for a sale. It requires the following:
* obtaining the best prices possible for raw materials or inventory,
* locating the business in an inexpensive area or facility,
* closely controlling the inventory,
* limiting product lines to fast-moving items,
* designing advertising to concentrate on price specials, and
* limiting non-essential services.
Pricing Above Competition
This strategy is possible when price is not the customer's greatest concern. Reasons to justify customers paying higher prices include: -
* service considerations, including delivery, speed of service, satisfaction in handling customer complaints, knowledge of product or service, and helpful, friendly employees;
* a convenient or exclusive location; and
*exclusive merchandise.
Price Lining
This strategy focuses on carrying a product or service in a specific range. For example, a store may wish to attract customers willing to pay more than $50 for a purse. Price lining has certain advantages:
* ease of selection for customers, and
* reduced inventory and storage costs.
Multiple Pricing
This approach involves selling a number of units for a single price, for example, two items for $1.98. This is useful for low-cost consumer products, such as shampoo or toothpaste. Many stores find this an attractive pricing strategy for sales and year-end clearances.
Cost Factors and Pricing
Every component of a service or product has a different, specific cost. Many small businesses fail to analyze each component of their commodity's total cost, and therefore fail to make a good profit. Once an analysis is done, prices can be set to maximize profits and eliminate any unprofitable services.
Cost components include material, labor and overhead costs. Material costs are the costs of all materials found in the final product, such as the wood, glue and coverings used in manufacturing a chair.
Labor costs are the costs of the work that goes into manufacturing a product. An example would be the wages of all production-line workers producing a certain commodity. The direct labor costs are derived by multiplying the cost of labor per hour by the number of personnel hours needed to complete the job. Remember to use not only the hourly wage but also the dollar value of fringe benefits. These include social security, workers' compensation, unemployment compensation, and insurance and retirement benefits.
Overhead costs are those not readily identifiable with a particular product. These costs include indirect materials, such as supplies, heat and light, depreciation, taxes, rent, advertising, transportation and insurance. Overhead costs also cover indirect labor costs, such as clerical, legal and janitorial services. Be sure to include shipping, handling and/or storage as well as other cost components. Part of the overhead costs must be allocated to each service performed or product produced. The overhead rate can be expressed as a percentage or an hourly rate. It is also important to adjust your overhead costs annually. Charges must be revised to reflect inflation and higher benefit rates. It's best to project the costs semiannually; including increased executive salaries and other costs.
Understanding one's market and pricing products and services accordingly, is very important part of any small business and an area that should be assessed carefully. Completing this important step will help a small business have an edge over their competition and can help increase profits.
Copyright 2005 Monique Hawkins
Monique Hawkins is the small business owner of the online music box store, "Monique's Music Box" located at http://www.my-music-box.com/ She enjoys sharing information with business owners that will help them attain success. For additional information about an opportunity for business owners to grow their business financially and strategically, visit: http://www.abrahampublishing.net/app/?af=274476/


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Oklahoma wide receiver Sterling Shephard injured himself after falling on some camera equipment while trying to pull in a touchdown during the Sooners' 31-30 loss to the Kansas State Wildcats. The photographer has revealed his $10,499 Canon lens was snapped in half.
Oklahoma wide receiver Sterling Shepard suffered an injury after falling on camera equipment while trying to pull in a touchdown pass during the Sooners' 31-30 loss to the Kansas State Wildcats.
While Shepard later returned to the game, a photographer revealed his equipment was not quite as lucky, as a $10,499 Canon lens was snapped in half on the play.
The photographer, Mike Simons of the Tulsa World, made the revelation in an open letter apologizing for any role he played in Shepard's injury, adding that the cost of the lens is negligible when compared to keeping the players on the field safe.
• Buffalo Wild Wings To Sponsor Citrus Bowl, Beginning In 2015
Coach Bob Stoops said after the game that the media around the field needs to be more cognizant of the players on it.
The Tulsa World has published a gallery of the shots Simons took in the moments leading up to the collision.
- Brendan Maloy


text: This is the website and company I just started. Here is my tagline: Brevard Lawns LLC is the premier multi-service lawn care company for Melbourne in Brevard County FL. We are proud to offer full online service for your lawn care needs. Our services include professional lawn maintenance packages starting at $50 per month customized to fit your individual household needs. We use only the highest quality products and top commercial equipment on your lawn to ensure your yard looks picture perfect every time. We guarantee that our experienced lawn care professionals will maintain a professional appearance while providing prompt and courteous service. Melbourne Lawn Care www.brevardlawns.com


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Which nerve controlles adductor pollicis in the hand ?
- print Print
- list Cite
The adductor pollicis muscle has two heads both on the palmar side of the hand. The transverse head has its origin at the volar crest of the third metacarpal of the hand. The oblique head is attached to the ligaments of the capitate bone at the base of the second or third metacarpal. These heads join into an insertion on the ulnar side of the proximal phalanx of the thumb. Its motions have to do with the adduction of the thumb.
The adductor pollicis gets its innervation from the ulnar nerve, which has its origin at the eighth cervical vertebra. The functioning of the innervation of the adductor pollici is tested by looking for Froment's sign. In order to perform this test, the patient is asked to hold a piece of paper in a pinch grip between the thumb and forefinger. The test is to try to pull the paper out. In a normal hand there should be reasonable resistance, whereas in palsy of the adductor fromis the paper will pull out very easily.
The nerve that controls the adductor pollicis is the motor branch of the ulnar nerve. The adductor pollicis is mainly involved with the thumb, and it is the most superficial of the thenar group. The ulnar nerve is the main nerve that runs the length of the ulna bone (the bigger of the two "forearm" bones) and is responsible for all the nerves in the hand.
Hope this helps!
Ulnar nerve is the nerve that controls the adductor pollicis in hand.
Ulnar nerve is the nerve that is not protected by any bone or muscle, that is why it can be damaged easily. It is the nerve that is near Ulna bone, directly connected to the little finger and the adjacent half to the ring finger supplying the palmer side of these fingers including tips and finger nail beds. It is the largest nerve of the body.


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Harty happy with aintseenothingyet
aintseenothingyet maintained his progression with an impressive triumph in Fairyhouse's two-and-a-half-mile maiden hurdle yesterday.
The Eddie Harty-trained 3/1 shot was never too far from the pace under Barry Geraghty - who was having his only ride of the day - and went to the front two out but stayed on strongly to pass the post with two-and-a-half lengths in hand of Space Cadet.
"He's a lovely, big horse and very raw," said Harty. "His future is over fences next season, and we'll find something for him over hurdles in the meantime. He's a baby.
"It's hard to know how far he'll stay but he has enough toe for two miles."
Altiepix took the spoils in the beginners' chase with a workmanlike display. The 8/11 market leader turned for home, with Curragh Na Gold hot on their heels before the latter crashed out at the second-last, where Altiepix jumped into a clear lead and Bryan Cooper kept him up to his work to see off Thekingofconnemara by a length and a half.
Meanwhile, Side Saddle led her rivals a merry dance in the mares' maiden hurdle, the 5/1 shot stole a couple of lengths rounding the turn for home and that proved decisive because try as Jodies Miss might, she could get never closer than the official length-and-three-quarter margin.
Indo Sport


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i was thinking about creating a video or something for oprah and sending it off. i guess i'll just give you the story i would tell, and see if you think it is worthy of getting oprah to help out. I'll just give the facts straight out and not fluff it like i would try to do.
growing up we had the perfect family, mom and dad, J'aime is the oldest, then Caleb, then Serah, then me. My parents started a Christian school in the basement of our church for J'aime to start school. in 1986, Caleb was diagnosed with cancer and Keren was born. Caleb was a Make-A-Wish kid, and we took a trip across the country in a winnebago that year too. Deirdre was born in 1989, and my parents started to break up. Caleb died in 1990. all of us are very close and we all have very strong faith. in december my dad died so suddenly of brain surgery. he found out he had a brain tumor on a monday, had the surgery that friday, and passed that monday. All it took was a week. So now my sisters and I are trying to keep the 13 acre property that has been in the family since the revolutionary war from creditors and the bank. my sisters have had to deal with a lot of crap in their lives, and we need help accomplishing the goal of keeping the house, and i would like something special for my sisters.2,323 views


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Need for Speed Nitro Wii
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Need for Speed Nitro Description
Designed from the ground up for the Wii and DS platforms, Need for Speed: Nitro is an arcade-style racing game offering an assortment of customization features. Over 30 licensed cars are included, from classic models to exotics, with a choice of multiple color schemes and skins.
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Yep, you read that right. The Good Chaplain will pin on the rank of Colonel on June 1. It is so exciting and I am so proud of him. He does his job so well.
To tell him of his promotion, the Good Chaplain's boss cooked up quite a plot. The Air Force released the promotion list on April 17, but as is tradition, notified those affected the day before. Those not selected find out in the morning and those selected are told at the end of the day. We did not hear anything all day. Then, mid-afternoon, the Good Chaplain's boss knocked on my door and told me,"In 75 minutes a car will come and get you. You will be taken to a room where you will wait until you are told to go to another room. You will be given instructions and then you will be escorted into a room where your husband will be. You will do as you are told and you will speak of this to no one." Of course, at that point I knew the Good Chaplain was selected.
In 75 minutes, Mrs. Boss picked me up and took me to the office next to the Chaplain's office, where several staff members and friends were also waiting. Of course, the Good Chaplain was anxious because he hadn't heard anything and decided to go for a walk, so we had to make sure we dodged him. Boss came in and told me the game plan. He was going to stall telling the Good Chaplain and then I would walk in.
Soon the Technical Sergeant came and got all of us. She knocked on Boss' door. "Excuse me, do you have a counseling appointment?" she said to the Good Chaplain. I already pictured the annoyed look on his face. "No," he said. "Oh, because there is a Colonel's wife out here to see you." At that point I walked in.
The Good Chaplain first looked annoyed and then confused — what is my wife doing here? "Hi, I'm a Colonel's wife," I said, throwing myself into his arms. I don't think it hit him until our friends and co-workers walked in after me.
It was priceless. And now the changes begin.


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Abercorn gets IB status
Abercorn International School has been authorized as an IB World School.
Their press release goes on to say:
"Within this stimulating framework, students at Abercorn are encouraged to integrate STEM projects with the Arts, as they develop skills and understanding in Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics: STEAM!
For example, last term students extended their creative and innovative skills across the entire curriculum by acquiring and applying knowledge and understanding of materials and components, mechanisms and control systems, structures, and existing products in projects that they related to their Arts show. They assembled motorized and mechanical Lego constructions, created a range of products from natural and man-made materials, and employed a junior CAD program to design objects which were then produced by the school's 3D printer! Their projects were showcased in a ground-breaking STEMFEST event at the school, and many were included as props in the school musical. This context provided a real-life application for the students' work, as well as a motivational force for their learning across the curriculum."


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Götschl, Renate#
b. Judenburg, Styria, Aug. 6, 1975, racing skier. Considered a highly talented competitive skier by the age of 16, she suffered numerous injuries and setbacks. Nevertheless, she won the combined title at the 1997 world championships, was World Cup downhill winner in 1997/1998 and 1998/1999, World Cup overall winner and super-G slalom winner in 1999/2000, and in 2000/2001 she was second overall in the World Cup and silver medal winner in downhill at the world championships in St. Anton.


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VEROCY provides tailored solutions to help you manage, understand and counter country risk.
Counter country risk is focused on an in-depth understanding of the political, economic, security and operational environment in all countries of the MENA region, with additionally give you the network and access to key players.
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Main areas for clients to use our methodology and insights are:
Find out why strategic planners, risk managers and security leaders rely on us to:


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Liz Stapleton studied Electrology at Selan's School of Electrolysis in Oak Park, Illinois and completed her training in 1974. She is the President of EAI (Electrology Association of Illinois) and is certified to teach Electrology. She is a life-time learner and always seeking new information and education that will enhance her skills and knowledge so she can offer her clients the highest level of customer satisfaction. Working in a dermatology office setting allows her to broaden her learning opportunities on the physiology of the skin and the latest age-defying techniques to enhance one's appearance.
The title of CPE (Certified Professional Electrologist) is an identifiable credential that validates competency, integrity, and professionalism. This is the voluntary professional credential recognized by the American Electrology Association and the Electrology Association of Illinois. She holds a B.A. degree from Southern Illinois University and an MBA from Keller Graduate School of Management.
Mary Sierra is a licensed Aesthetician and proud member of the AIA (Aesthetics International Association). She received her certificate at the University of Aesthetics in Downers Grove and interned at Dianne Pauly Enterprises Medical Spa in Naperville/Aurora. She specializes in advanced skin care treatments such as chemical peels, machine facials, and derma- roller treatments. All skin care treatments include a skin analysis and consultation.
Kristin Muþoz has a Bachelor's degree in Business from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Kristin is a licensed Massage Therapist. She received her massage therapy certification from the College of DuPage. Kristin is also a Certified Health Coach from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition.
Contact information, office locations, and appointment hours are available on our Contact page.
President of Electrology Association of Illinois
The Electrology Association of Illinois (EAI) is an affiliate of the American Electrology Association (AEA). EAI represents needle therapists dedicated to the profession of permanent hair removal.
Member of Aesthetics International Association
AIA was founded to bring aesthetic professionals together to network, share knowledge and to gather in numbers to establish a presence in the industry.
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There are wide ranging people in this world nobody can stand to get rid of a few pounds. This advice is for the people who in order to lose any place from 15 to 25 pounds in an easily affordable amount of time and energy without the aide of diet supplements or exercise session. I was one of people.
A bike is an affordable way to burn a great deal of unwanted weight. Instead of going for the market in your own car, use your scooter. You will see great results some days later. Should also use a bicycle to move to various places in your city whenever they are not to far aside.
The metabolism of is given an enhancement by the consumption of green tea and espresso. It also acts as an diet pill. The green tea is the best natural weight loss supplements available you can get. It should be consumed thrice a day. These doses of green tea supplements ought to taken before every hoagie. This natural remedy can be very effective if coupled with 30 minutes of exercise, thrice 7 days. The 30 minutes exercise requirement to be divided as follows (20 minutes cardio. and 10 minutes with barbells.
According to the AHA, around 1977, had been a protein diet who use consisted of digested collagen with filler injections. This diet has been considered cause 60 deaths over the years. This was over thirty in the past and the risks of fad dieting basically as strong today.
You see, akin into the last good diet tip for women, keeping track of what consume is applicable to men too. Now, men do not want to count each calorie they consume, but merely a general knowledge of appropriate eating can prove immensely beneficial to their health. Men, on an average, require to start 2,500 calories daily. So, if you're aiming there are weight loss, increase the quantity of of high-fiber, nutrient-rich meals, fruits and veggies, numerous others. so that you stay full throughout the day, do not have to have trouible with starving, natural light . manage to lose weight, or perhaps don't wind up gaining lbs .. Keep track of your everyday eating habits, and don't struggle much with weight loss. Just keep watch.
As summer season nears we reluctantly get our butts in gear but at that time we get more weight to get than daily possibly lose in period remaining. Lots of people summer is due to full swing the the weekend is full of beers and barbeques we all are lucky to maintain our excessive fat.
We are all aware of how hard it would be to stop eating your favorite foods. I dont want you to deprive yourself associated with your guilty pleasures. You can eat them just eat them in moderation and modest amounts. Only dine out three or four times a month, but do skip the appetizer and piece of food. You will thank yourself later for doing that!


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Prep 15 min Cook 25 min
- Yield
- 4 boats
- 2 Zucchini, halved
- 3 Tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 Onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic,minced
- 1 eggplant, cubed
- 2 tomatoes,chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt & Pepper
- Scoop balls of flesh from the center of the zucchini to create boats; reserve the flesh balls. Preheat a grill to medium-high. Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat; add the onion and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the remaining 2 tbsp olive oil, the eggplant and zucchini balls; cover and cook for 8 minutes. Add the tomatoes and cook, stirring, until the mixture is thick, about 5 minutes. Stir in the parsley, season with salt and pepper. Fill the zucchini shells with the ratatouille, sprinkle with the cheese and grill, covered, over medium-high until the cheese is melted and the shells are slightly softened. Serve.
Related Video
Nutritional Info
- Calories197
- Carbohydrates17 g(6%)
- Fat13 g(20%)
- Protein6 g(11%)
- Saturated Fat3 g(15%)
- Sodium820 mg(34%)
- Polyunsaturated Fat1 g
- Fiber7 g(26%)
- Monounsaturated Fat8 g
- Cholesterol8 mg(3%)


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A Bachelor's degree can lead educational doors, provide opportunity for career advancement, or lay the groundwork for the pursuit of an advanced degree. Our goal is to help prospective students navigate the program selection process successfully. We do things easy by streamlining the search.
In regards to the study of biological & life sciences, students may focus on one aspect of natural science or study how they work together, such as the environment and human health or biology and geology.
Education in the United States is mainly provided by the public sector, with control and funding coming from three levels: state, local, and federal, in that order. The common requirements to study at a higher education level in United States will include your admissions essay (also known as the statement of purpose or personal statement), transcript of records, recommendation/reference letters, language tests
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text: Self described adventurer and animal whisperer Allan Dixon travels the world taking very special and incredibly cute selfies with animals. From Australia to Ireland to the bottom of the deep blue sea, his new travel companions look all too happy -- though sometimes slightly confused -- to be sharing the limelight. See all of Allan's photos on Instagram @daxon


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Derek Trucks Band
New Daisy Theatre
Memphis, Tennessee
February 21, 2009
If there's one thing that Derek Trucks can do, it's play guitar. After his return engagement in Memphis, that much is abundantly crystal clear. It had been about five and a half years since he and the Derek Trucks Band had played Memphis – the 45-minute set at Beale Street Music Festival just doesn't count. But, after blowing the doors and ceiling off the New Daisy Theatre, the absence has been forgiven.
With January release Already Free in the can and on shelves, it was a given that the band would be putting new material on display, and they did so right off the bat, getting the crowd rowdy with "Get What You Deserve," following it up with "Down Don't Bother Me," a great track that's been in the catalogue for quite a while and finally made it onto a studio album. Vocalist Mike Mattison killed it on this song, showing (yet again) why he's underrated. His gruff voice oozes soul, and even with a bum leg (he sang the whole show perched on a stool, right leg in a cast.)
All told they played over half the new disc. Especially great was the title track – many albums include songs that work in the studio but rarely, if ever, get performed on stage in a live setting (Allman Brothers' "Little Martha," for example.) "Already Free," a soft, touching stand-out track that closes out the album, could have been one such song, so it's great to see it already breaking into setlists. Mattison and his voice owned this one live just as he did on the album.
Once the band got the obligatory album promotion out of the way (six of the first seven songs played were album tracks), the band really got down to business with a cover of Lee Dorsey's "Get Out My Life Woman," soul/funk nugget that allowed the whole band really stretch its legs for the first time.
Curtis Mayfield's "We're A Winner" was another show-off track for Mattison. There aren't many guys with Mattison's range, and this song really showed his ability to hit the high notes.
The band's take on "My Favorite Things" was the highlight of the night. Mattison left the stage, leaving it in the hands of the instrumentalists. The Derek Trucks Band may be known for its namesake, but the rest of the band is by no means an afterthought. Kofi Burbridge's B3 work is top-notch, and not enough can be said about his flute playing. Yonrico Scott's drumming is powerful when it needs to be, colorful when called for, and always on the beat. When the band turns to jazz, like they did on this tune, they really show their versatility as a unit.
And, the captain of that team is Derek Trucks (six paragraphs in and his first mention, which speaks volumes about the band). Frankly, the guy's a savant. When he picks up a guitar, he commands the whole room because you can't help but stop what you're doing and listen. He completely owns the instrument in a way that very few, if anyone does.
About twelve minutes into "My Favorite Things," as the jam got spacey, Trucks took his low E string, loosened it enough that he could yank the damn thing back towards his stomach, and played it behind the neck of the guitar, making sounds like the teacher from Peanuts. Then, just like that, he tightened and re-tuned and went about his business. It's that kind of mastery of your craft that frankly makes the rest of us not want to pick up our own guitars. It's pure, unadulterated natural ability – stuff like that just really can't be taught.
The set closed with standard-issue Derek Trucks Band cover tunes: Taj Mahal's "Leavin' Trunk" and Derek & The Dominos' "Anyday," and with that, the band left the stage. They returned to the stage for a great version of "Sweet Inspiration" and another Mayfield tune, "Freddie's Dead."
Mike Mattison, again, ruled on vocals. Seriously, when will this guy get the credit he justly deserves? Bassist Todd Smallie finally got his time in the spotlight, with a thumping bass solo. It says a lot about a band when a guy as bad-assed on his instrument as Smallie is doesn't get a chance to show his chops until the final song of the night.
But, the Derek Trucks Band isn't about showing off. It's about the music, and it always has been. Even though the band is named for the transcendent guitarist, he never speaks outside of introducing the band. Nope, Derek and his band let their music do the talking. And, in Memphis, that music spoke LOUD.
Click the thumbnail for more shots from Memphis
Written by / photos by Josh Mintz
Derek Trucks Band
Cincinnati, Ohio
February 12, 2009
Arriving at Cincinnati, Ohio's legendary music club, Bogarts, with a new album, Already Free, the Derek Trucks Band delivered a mind bending, swamp rock trip on February 12. Beginning the proceedings with the rave up, "Get What You Deserve," from Already Free, the DTB rolled steadily along with bandleader Trucks' riveting slide workouts and Mike Mattison's smooth, soulful lead vocal phrasings.
Continuing along the same line, "Down Don't Bother Me" featured an insight into one of music's best rhythm combos, the trio of Todd Smallie on bass, Yonrico Scott on drums and Count M'Butu on percussion. "Down Don't Bother Me" had the Allman Bros. fans on the floor bobbing their heads in time to the beat. The composition is a distinctive cross between the Allmans' greasy southern blues and Derek Trucks' uniquely transcending, world pop music bursts on bottleneck slide guitar.
Delving into his inner Jeff Beck, Trucks elevated the DTB's organic vibrations, walking across the stage to urge more fluent improvisations from each member on "Greensleeves." The double gut punch of Already Free's title track sandwiched alongside the opening number on the project, "Down in the Flood," had the balcony twirlers circling throughout the storied facility as the warm ambience inside Bogarts increased with each successive jam.
The DTB offered up a sizzling run through on "I'd Rather Be Blind, Crippled & Crazy" that featured a smoky keyboard solo from organ master Kofi Burbridge. Linking the Cincinnati show to the upcoming Allman Bros. month of concerts at the Beacon Theater in New York, the group pounded the revitalized blues number that made it onto the Derek and the Dominoes recording, Layla, "Key to the Highway."
Trucks has proved to be the ultimate focal point of any ceremony he attaches himself to, and his razor sharp slide treatments on "Don't Miss Me" had Bogarts' denizens hollering for more. As the ensemble left the stage to a deafening ovation, Trucks waved to the crowd with a smile, exhibiting a rare moment of emotion. Hobbling back on crutches, Mattison sat on the chair at the lip of the stage and belted "Get Out of My Life, Woman" as the DTB surrounded him with a truncated rhythm and blues strut. Derek Trucks gave the faithful what they came for on the last encore, "Soul Serenade," before leaving the Bogarts spotlight to hit the road that never ends on the Already Free World Tour.
Written by Bill Whiting / photos (taken from Memphis show) by Josh Mintz


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General Motors coins -
General Motors Roller Press Cent
Motors Roller Press Cents: In the 1960's the United
States Mint experimented with a roller press to coin cents.
It was a joint venture in partnership with General Motors.
The reason for the experiment was that the coin shortage of
1963 to 1964 was especially severe with regard to cents. All
of the United States' Mints working around the clock
could not make enough cents to replace those that were being
withdrawn daily from circulation. The roller press was developed
in answer to this shortage.
the making of the movie Goldfinger, which is about a plot
to steal the gold in Fort Knox, Treasury officials asked for
and received permission to have a private viewing of the movie.
Several top General Motors executives were invited because
they were business acquaintances of the Treasury officials.
After the film ended, they talked about the coin shortage.
Louis C. Goad, General Motors Executive Vice-President for
manufacturing, said that GM could make a press that could
strike coins at a rate of 10,000 per minute. The Mint officials
liked the idea and contracted with GM to create a prototype
of the press.
The Mint provided some funding, but most
came from GM along with all of the engineering and construction
that was necessary. The prototype and the production press
were designed by GM Chief Engineer Ronald Featherstone. His
machine fed sheets of coinage strip into a blanking press
that produced planchets which were pushed out into matching
receptacles on the middle of three rollers. These receptacles
each contained an obverse coin die. The planchets, which were
made with raised rims, were then struck by the series of dies
for the reverse that were mounted on the lower roller. The
middle roller then ejected the finished coins that fell into
a bin.
In 1965 the Mint contracted with General
Motors to build a full-scale model press. GM received $500,000
for building the press. It was completed in early 1967 and
tested at the General Motors facility. In early 1968, the
press was moved to the Mint in Philadelphia, which was a new
facility that was still under construction.
When put into operation, the press actually
worked; however, it required very high maintenance. Each time
a die cracked or was too worn, the entire press had to be
shut down. The torque of the roller mounted dies evidently
accelerated die failure. The result was that fewer coins could
be minted by this new press than the conventional machine.
Also the press and the dies required frequent lubrication,
which caused oil to drip onto the coinage strip as it went
into the machine. Sometimes the heat caused the oil to vaporize
and form droplets. Many of the coins produced had slightly
rippled surfaces and were not sharply struck.
Between 1964 and 1968 approximately fifty
people worked on developing the press. During that time the
coinage shortage passed. The Mint operated the press on a
test basis because it never fulfilled its promise. Finally
in 1969 the Mint and General Motors issued a press release
in which they announced the cancellation of further development
of the press. At this time it was suggested that the Mint
continued too long with this project to avoid embarrassment
at the dedication ceremony of the new facility.
Although an engineering failure, the project
left a numismatic legacy. The coins produced at first were
larger than a cent so they would not be taken for regular
coinage. On the obverse they said GM with MD on the reverse.
These stood for General Motors and Manufacturing Development.
An unknown quantity was struck in copper or bronze. Another
test group was inscribed MANUFACTURING DEVELOPMENT STAFF.
These were made from defaced Lincoln cent dies. A third variety
also used defaced dies with a different combination of lettering.
On the final version the word STAFF appears. Later a tandem
roller press used dies engraved by Frank Gasparro. The new
test piece portrayed a left facing woman surrounded by letters
that could identify individual dies. The reverse had a wreath
with similar nonsense letters. These latter pieces were struck
from planchets of the same specifications as circulating Lincoln
Actual cents were struck by the Mint using
the roller press in 1968-69; however, they cannot be distinguished
from ordinary coinage. Since none of these pieces was identified
by the Mint, their fate is unknown. Although all of the coins
produced on the roller presses are rare, they occasionally
appear in numismatic venues. They are actively collected and
have been listed in Andrew Pollock III's book United
States Patterns and Related Issues.