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Welcome to the 25 Days of Giving. Each day we'll focus on a different way you can teach your kids to give to others. If you missed the start of this series, you can find it here. Put the focus on giving instead of getting at Christmas this year because Jesus was a gift to us. Join in the fun by reading each day, then posting in the comments ways that you help your kids give to others at Christmas. Don't forget to share this series with your friends on Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest.
Learning to give to others takes many forms. In the past four days, my girls have given things to a stranger, a neighbor, each others and a friend. Interestingly enough, the hardest thing to give came on Saturday when they had to do something special for each other. It seems that we often have the toughest time being kind and considerate to those closest to us and those that know us the best.
We've got four days of giving to catch you up on, so here we go:
Day 6: This was one of my favorite activities. We went to Wal-Mart, bought a $5 gift card and handed it to a child in the toy department. On the way there, my girls decided they had two criteria for giving a child the card: the child had to not be getting anything and the child had to be behaving. No screaming kids were getting a gift card.
My girls scoped out the aisles, found a little boy who was with his dad, then did an excellent job of explaining what they were doing and why they wanted this little boy to have the gift card. The little boy was thrilled, and my girls got first-hand experience at seeing the joy that giving can bring. They lived out the directive of Hebrews 13:2, "Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it."
Giving away that gift card to a stranger allowed the girls to see the importance of being kind, even to those people that we don't know. We never know when the people we pass on the street are hurting and a simple act of kindness will go a long way toward lifting their spirits.
Day 7: Friday's notecard directed the girls to decorate a tree in a neighbor's yard with ornaments and candy canes. Due to a change in our schedule, we actually didn't get this one done on until Saturday night, but they had fun, nonetheless. A plain tree in the neighbor's yard was trandsformed with blue snowflakes and icicles.
This activity gave the girls a chance to share beauty with someone else. It reinforced the importance of loving our neighbors and, hopefully, brightened someone else's day. Under cover of darkness they decorated, so the next morning, the neighbors would find a surprise. It literally let them "love their neighbors" one Christmas ornament at a time.
Day 8: Saturday was the toughest direction to follow for my girls. It told them to do something special for each other. My older daughter gifted my younger one with an hour of her time. For an hour, they played Matchbox cars and MarioKart, which was a pretty big sacrifice on my older daughter's part as she's never been a big fan of playing with cars or of video games. They had a great time, played well together and enjoyed one another's company. Not once did I hear them argue or use hurtful words. It was a blessed hour of peace in a crazy weekend.
However, my younger daughter had a more difficult time doing something special for her sister. It wasn't until we were in the grocery store, and they were deciding what type of gum to buy that she found something to give her sister. The girls were allowed to choose one pack of gum for the two of them to share. After much "discussion" my younger daughter decided her special thing would be to let my older daughter choose the flavor. Now, that might not sound like such a big thing, but my younger daughter doesn't normally back down and let other have their way. She's strong-willed and stubborn and often has trouble remembering the words of Philippians 2:3 to "value others above yourself."
Day 9: Yesterday, my older daughter woke up sick, so she stayed home with my husband while my younger daughter and I went to church. While we were there, we purchased a cookie at the coffee shop. My younger daughter took it with her to the children's program and gave it to a friend. Surprising our friends with an unexpected gift tells them we value them. It let's them know they are special to us. Whether it's a cookie or a hug, our friends need to know that we care about them. Giving a gift for no reason helps them to know that.
So, the past four days have been filled with giving. The girls are excited to open the boxes that contain our notecards each morning to see what fun gift they're going to get to give next. We've successfully taken the focus off of getting this season and put it onto giving. It's not too late to start your own season of giving. Instead of the 15 Days of Giving, use some of these ideas and do 12 Days of Giving in your house. We can't wait to give away more things this week.
For more great ideas to keep your kids' attention focused on Christ in the Christmas season, check out my Everyday Christmas e-book. You'll find lots of simple to implement ideas to create a Christ-centered Christmas.
Linking up today with The Better Mom and Graceful.


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Macie Female Merle Frenchton $1500
Adam Troyer
Hello! My name is Macie, a gorgeous female merle Frenchton puppy! I was born on December 12, 2018. I have been told I have soft fur and a very loving face. I'm on the hunt for my new home! I will come home up to date on all my shots and worming. If would like more information on me, please call That Doggy in the Window at 330-353-9321.
For more information about this Frenchton puppies for sale:
Call or Text 330-353-9321 -OR- Email: email@example.com
That Doggy in the Window advertises for other breeders in Ohio. We offer door to door delivery and shipping. More puppies for sale at www.thatdoggyinthewindow.com
You can put a hold on this puppy with our Add to Cart button for a Deposit of $105.00 (5.00 is for Processing Fee through Paypal). This deposit is non-refundable. The breeder will contact you for the remaining balance on your puppy. At that time they will make arrangements on how you would like to get your puppy. We advertise for local breeders in Ohio. Shipping is an additional charge.

subset: commoncrawl


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|Sighting Report
|Occurred : 12/10/1996 19:55
Reported: 12/10/1996 22:29
Posted: 3/21/2003
Location: Pensacola, FL
Duration:15 min.
|Three male adults were driving south on Highway 98, which crosses "3 Mile Bridge." To the east of them, they saw a bright yellow light, that appeared to expand outward, like a "runway light, or a tracer (round)."
Then, they saw something be shot out of the first object, and this process continued until a number of other items had been ejected from the first object. These secondary objects would disappear, then reappear, as the first object slowly was moving away from the observers' location. It moved farther out to sea, such that it was about 10 degrees above the horizon.
At this point, the primary object appeared to the observers to release one object, which moved to the left, and another object, which appeared to move to the right. Shortly thereafter, all three object appeared to be expelling lights, "or something."
The observers stopped their car to watch the process as it continued.


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As a small business owner you want to have the most efficient systems in place to not only save you time but money in the end. One of those systems in your office that you should be looking at is the business communication system you have installed. This phone system is the lifeline of your entire company. You must use it to communicate with your customers, your vendors and your other office personnel. This system can make or break you when it comes to communication. You want to know you can depend on your phone system to help you reach out and to be reached.
If you are still using a typical commercial telephone system then you should consider having a communications analysis. This is where Toshiba comes out and helps you find the perfect phone system for you. The technician will perform an analysis of your bills, phone usage and other items in the office to help you get the most efficient and cost effective system for your office.
What will this entail? A technician will come out to your office and go over your past phone records. They can see what type of usage you have in the office and where they can assist you the most in that area. One great thing about your analysis is it will show you just exactly where you can save money on your bills. Each month your bill changes and it can be difficult to budget.
When you take this analysis they can show you where they can save you money and how the system can change your office.
They will take a look at what systems would work best in your office. For example, cloud hosting is one option that is available. They can help you to see how the cloud works and what this hosting can do for your office. You can see examples and try a demo out of the system. This will allow you to see how easy it is to use and what you could add to your communications in the office.
Your technician will also go over where you can save money in the office. There's no need for big bulky equipment in your office when you use a digital phone system. They can show you how it can open up office space, save you money each month on your bills and how you can take your new phone system no matter where you go.
The benefits of this analysis for your business are many. You can first find out where you are losing money. Each month you create your budget and it is never the same for your phone bills. This can wreak havoc on your budgeting. With a new phone system you know how much you will pay each month, every month. They will also help you see that by installing this minimal equipment system you can save money on upgrades throughout the years.
The analysis will also help you to see how to streamline communications in your office. This helps you to know where changes could be made to help you in making communications easier and more effective.
If you have not had a communications analysis done then be sure to schedule yours today. You won't regret it when you see what you have been missing!
Stella is an established writer and she loves helping small business owners find what they need to streamline their business using ip telephone systems.


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I "invented" a new positive discipline measure right before school started this year. I wanted my students to strive to be good instead of just striving to not get in trouble.
Before school started I covered my classroom door with craft paper and some extra artwork designs leftover from the previous year. I also created a Super Art Star cup that sits at the front of my class on my desk.
Here is how is works:
I write down students names whom I see displaying great behaviors. These names are written on small pieces of paper that I have stacked up on my desk and put in the Star Cup. I try to make an announcement when I write down a name because it makes the rest of the students seems to try even harder.
At the end of each month, I dump out the names and pull out 5. Those students get their names announced on the intercom and I write their name on a star which gets displayed on the door. I usually hand out other prizes too, like fun pencils for the young kiddos and the older kids can sit at my desk for the class period.
This has given me the most amazing results. My students are working so hard at showing great behaviors and it is making a huge difference on classroom management.
It is a keeper!


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BofA, Union Bank Close Revolver for FilmNation
New York-based FilmNation Entertainment announced that it negotiated $50 million in additional capital with an equity-backed, revolving multi-bank credit facility with Bank of America Merrill Lynch and Union Bank.
Supporting FilmNation's long-term growth strategy, proceeds from the revolving line of credit will contribute to the company's goal of financing an increasing number of films. The revolving credit will also allow president of Production Aaron Ryder and his team the ability to finance, produce and acquire a greater number of films and higher budget projects for the company's slate.
"FilmNation represents the next generation of top content creators," said Brian Stearns, co-head of Bank of America Merrill Lynch's Entertainment Industries Group based in Los Angeles. "We are pleased to have had the opportunity to arrange this innovative financing and look forward to doing even more with FilmNation."
"Union Bank is proud to have supported FilmNation over the past four years and watched Glen and his team successfully implement the business plan," said Bryan LaCour, manager of Union Bank's Entertainment Finance unit. "This financing will provide FilmNation with the necessary resources to continue its growth strategy and expand its already proven content creation platform."


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« Once More Unto the Breach | Main | About Damn Time »
» June 13, 2014
What the...?
Fujin's gone. My mom's gone. Fortune from the Wan Lung, where we had dinner with my father on Friday the 13th:
Remember three months from this date. Good things are in store for you.
Fri Jun 13, 2014 06:38 -0700


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So I've arrived! I'm here, in this big bad city... alone...
To be honest, I am totally overwhelmed, excited, exhausted, almost broke and sometimes filled with intense homesickness - you know the feeling? You know it, man... those "What the fuck am I doing?!" moments.
I am officially the insane 20-something who quit a perfectly good job, left her amazing boyfriend in her well-designed flat to go live in an Airbnb with a total stranger and dog in Brooklyn. Breathe deep. Don't have a panic attack. Breathe.
Still trying to figure everything out. Still.
But life is all about learning, growing, adapting to changes and making it all work for you.
First thing to know about NYC is that everyone is either painfully cool/stylish, beautiful or recently had a mental breakdown. The lifestyle is so fast paced and everything is expensive. You can't leave your house without dropping at least $50.
London underground trains aka "The Tube/The Underground" are a very polite space. People respect the rules that blast over the intercom in that posh lady accent. They stand on the right and walk on the left. They wait for fellow Londoners to exit the carriage before entering. They avoid eye contact like the plague.
NYC is SO friendly and talkative. American people will speak to you in the streets/train/queue like you're an old friend. Honestly, my first day here this really nice lady struck up conversation with me about my height and the height of my parents and siblings - so many questions and jokes, we were chatting for so long I missed my stop and had to take 2 trains to find my way again. Rookie error.
Corner shops aka "Bodegas" in NYC do not sell alcohol. They sell salads, sandwiches and useless fattening snacks. Everyone in America says liquor not alcohol, and to buy liquor one has to find specific liquor-only stores. Its not that hard, but I was just surprised by this because England and Jamaica don't work this way.
The bus system is intimidating and I still haven't even tried it yet.
A lot of grown ass people in NYC play games on their phones on loud on public transport. Very annoying.
But at least consistency lies in the fact that no matter where you go in the world when you open your phone on the front camera when you're lying in bed it is one of the most humbling experiences.


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The Center for International Security and Cooperation is a center of the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies.
When it comes to cybersecurity, Stanford is the hot spot, especially if you work in national security.
On Aug. 18, officials from the U.S. military, National Security Agency, U.S. Cyber Command, Joint Chiefs of Staff, and from countries known as the "Five Eyes," attended cybersecurity discussions on campus. Most attendees were chief information officers. John Zangardi, the principal deputy chief information officer for the U.S. Department of Defense, led the group.
The "Five Eyes" refers to an alliance comprising the U.S., Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. These countries abide by an agreement for joint cooperation in signals intelligence, military intelligence, and human intelligence.
The event was held at the Hoover Institution, a co-sponsor along with Stanford's Center for International Security and Cooperation, a center in the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Relations. Participants took part in two roundtables – the first one, "Geopolitical Perspectives," provided a strategic overview of international security with Stanford's William J. Perry (CISAC and the Hoover Institution), Michael McFaul (FSI and the Hoover Institution), Toomas Henrik Ilves (Hoover Institution), and Francis Fukuyama (the Hoover Institution and FSI's Center on Democracy, Development, and the Rule of Law).
The second discussion, the "Cyber Information Warfare Panel," focused on cyber challenges with Amy Zegart (CISAC and the Hoover Institution), Herb Lin (CISAC and the Hoover Institution), John Villasenor (CISAC and the Hoover Institution), and Jay Healey (CISAC).


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Robots guide visitors at Berlin's travel fair
March 12 (TravelAndy): Two robots are welcoming visitors to the International Tourism Trade fair in Berlin (ITB).
Chihira Kanae, the robot, is extending warm welcome to the tourists. She is also guiding them to the right direction. She has been joined by her male counterpart, Mario, who is also functioning as a guide to the visitors.
The robots have become one of the prime attraction of ITB fair in Germany's capital.
Although they are behaving like human escorts, they are unable to answer questions that are not pre-programmed.
"The point is to make people smile and give them a unique experience. It's not to take the place of employees," Fabrice Goffin, co-founder of QBMT, whose software designed Mario, told Reuters.
The fair, which began on March 9, will conclude on Sunday, March 13, 2016


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Some photos of the studio, its a narrow room so I had a pretty hard time getting good angles, plus it is a cluster of colors and prints but thats kind of the fun thing about it! It's amazing after 3 years of basically working out of a coat closet to have a room. Baby steps. Hats on the walls, etsy clothing folded and color coated on the shelves, and the rack has items to be photographed. Looking forward to a vintage filled summer.
The shelves that I painted.
Jun 29, 2012
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- MSC Cruises
MSC Fantasia Onboard Activities
Learn more about the things to do on MSC Fantasia.
The Zen-like, Asian-inspired Aurea Spa offers a full menu of treatments, some of them Asian-inspired as well. The large therapy pool and thermal suite, which has a Turkish bath and sauna, are complimentary for occupants of Yacht Club accommodations and available to all for
a daily fee.
Bars & Entertainment
After dinner, the coffee bars are the main social gathering spots, as is customary on European ships. Elaborate evening entertainment in the show lounges is designed for multilingual audiences and relies on sight and familiarity with musical selections rather than language.
Bars and lounges range from sports bars, piano bars, and cigar lounges to high-energy dance spots, with the entertainment staff on hand to get things going. More sedate bars are also available for a quiet nightcap.


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Hot Properties: 10 July 2016
Luxurious living in Schoemansville
Luxurious living in a small town. This upstanding newly renovated home, is perfect for a large family who loves entertaining guests. From the beautiful living room with the 2 fireplaces, through to the courtyard garden and undercover patio with a built-in braai and swimming pool, this home feels like you're on vacation!
ZAR 2,7 million
Contact Janine Viljoen on 072 455 5475 or email@example.com
This is the Life
It won't be easy to click out of holiday mode in this contemporary residence for the modern pleasure-seeker, with spectacular views of the mountain ranges and Hartbeespoort Dam. Perfectly situated in a quiet street, this home offers you 4 bedrooms-3 of them with views, 1 room that can become a gym area, 1 study with built-in cupboards, 3 bathrooms, 2 guest toilets, 2 living areas and an open plan kitchen and dining area with separate scullery. The calming dam views, captured through the extensive use of glass, will help you forget all about your city stress.
ZAR 2,2 million
Contact Janine Viljoen on 072 455 5475 or email@example.com
Dream outlook in perfect waterfront position
This penthouse unit is a waterfront unit with a large entertainment patio, built-in braai and granite serving area with spectacular views. It offers an open plan living area, kitchen, four bedrooms and two bathrooms master en-suite. A boat house is allocated to the unit and it has easy launching from the water front. Blissful serenity, just 45 minutes away from Johannesburg and Pretoria.
ZAR 1,5 million
Contact Lorna Stander on 071 735 2160 or email@example.com
Grand waterfront residence with beautiful garden
Idyllic waterfront setting in the heart of Kosmos Village, overlooking the Hartbeespoort Dam. This home offers ample accommodation, double volume living areas, all individually leading to either the upstairs veranda or downstairs garden and covered patio. Four bedrooms (two en-suite), with views. Working fire place, optional study, total privacy, pool, staff quarters, separate laundry, garaging for two cars.
ZAR 3,5 million
Contact Lorna Stander on 071 735 2160 or email@example.com
Brand New Release in Secure Estate
Brand new lock-up-and-go in Secure Estate. This spacious 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, has an open plan kitchen with a big living and dining room. The master bedroom has an on-suite with lots of cupboard space. Double garages leads directly into the house.
ZAR 1,515 million
Contact Lizette Saaiman on 076 784 6669 or email@example.com
Family home in secure estate with low levies
Lovely family home for the first time buyer, or are you thinking of retirement, then this is the property for you. The lounge opens onto a patio with built-in braai and is adjacent to the well-designed kitchen, with scullery, done with sleeper wood finishes and direct access to the D/G. The family room has been fitted with a lovely fire place for the winter months. It further features a loft which can be used as a study, playroom, tv-room or games area.
ZAR 1,33 miilion
Contact Lizette Saaiman on 076 784 6669 or email@example.com
Exquisite property in secure complex
This exquisite family home is situated in an intimate secure complex in Melodie. This property feature large living areas with lots of sunshine. The kitchen is open plan and very modern with a built-in pantry. The scullery and laundry area is separate from the main kitchen. The dining area has access directly to the double garages with a storeroom with lots of space that leads to an outdoor area and thatched lapa. This can be converted into a flat let with an en-suite.
ZAR 1,63 million
Contact Lizette Saaiman on 076 784 6669 or firstname.lastname@example.com
Penthouse in Equestrian Estate. Magnificent views
Enjoy magnificent views from this penthouse unit on the third floor in a secure and quiet equestrian estate. It offers an open-plan lounge, dining room and kitchen area, and has 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms (mes). Stacking doors lead to two entertainment patios, one covered, with extensive views over the Hartbeespoort Dam and the Magalies mountain range. The Estate is very secure with lovely gardens and if you are a horse lover, this is the right place to be! Stables on the estate are very neat and horse riding lessons are available.
ZAR 1,5 million
Contact Marina Roux on 078 011 7877 or email@example.com


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Getting past Conference Security – Do you think like a Social Engineer
A while ago, I was speaking at a conference in the north of England. I wasn't especially enamoured of the topic and was doing it as a favour for the organiser who was an old friend. I wasn't "on" until late afternoon so I had a few hours to kill after lunch at the hotel….


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BANGOR — An Augusta man and an Albion woman received federal prison terms for their roles in a conspiracy in which cocaine and oxycodone from New York were sold in central Maine, and a Waterville woman admitted her involvement.
The hearings took place Tuesday before Judge John A. Woodcock Jr. in U.S. District Court in Bangor.
Saul A. Hernandez, 24, of Augusta, who pleaded guilty in September to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of cocaine and oxycodone, was sentenced to 52 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release.
Hernandez previously was convicted in state court of unlawful trafficking in scheduled drugs and was on probation for that at the time the federal crime occurred.
He was represented by attorney Jon Haddow.
Haddow said Hernandez apologized to the court at the sentencing hearing.
"He acknowledged he let down his family and expressed real regret that he had gotten involved," Haddow said Tuesday.
Hernandez was arrested last May, and the 11 months he has been held in federal custody will count toward his sentence, Haddow said.
Cassandra Ware, 23, of Albion, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release.
She pleaded guilty on Nov. 29, 2012, to the same charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of cocaine and oxycodone.
Her attorney, Jeremy Pratt, said Wednesday, "She apologized to the community, the court, her family and friends who supported her. She was very remorseful for what she's done."
Pratt said Ware suffered a long period of addiction that began when she received a legitimate prescription.
"Personally I'm confident once this episode is behind her, she'll never revert to criminal activity," he said.
According to the federal prosecutor's version of events, both Hernandez and Ware distributed cocaine and oxycodone they had obtained from codefendant Maurice McCray, and some of those drug and money exchanges were recorded via court-approved wiretaps of phones.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Casey wrote that Ware would deliver the drugs "to her customers and collect payment for same." One of those exchanges last year in Waterville was witnessed by law enforcement agents.
The conspiracy, in which 20 suspects were charged, lasted from Jan. 1 through March 17, 2012, according to court documents.
Ware was arrested last May 22 and was free on bail until she was arrested on a superseding indictment in October.
Another woman charged in the same conspiracy, Tara A. Pelletier, 31, of Waterville, pleaded guilty Tuesday to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of cocaine and oxycodone. She was ordered held pending sentencing. She is represented by attorney Matthew S. Erickson.
According to the prosecution's version of events, Pelletier drove McCray to bus stations in Augusta and Portland to pick up couriers bringing the drugs from New York.
Pelletier also assisted with wire transfers of money and with distributing the drugs.
Betty Adams — 621-5631
[email protected]
Boys basketball: Patience, trust pay off for Skowhegan during surprising run
Varsity Maine
Girls basketball: Boothbay cruises to regional final
Varsity Maine
Girls basketball: Christopher gives Skowhegan its missing piece
Life & Culture
Singer Don McLean threatens Maine weekly for writing about ex-wife's exhibit on abuse
New England
Death of Mount Washington climber is under investigation


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U.S. stock market dips, led by health care stocks
Health care companies are leading stocks broadly lower in early trading on Wall Street as the market gives back some of its big gain from the day before.
Drug distributor companies were especially hard hit morning Tuesday, after news broke that Amazon was seeking to expand its medical supplies business and that Walgreens Boots Alliance wants to buy the rest of AmerisourceBergen. It already owns a 26 percent stake in the company, which is one of the largest prescription drug distributors in the U.S. and also distributes products to hospitals and other health systems.
Patterson Companies (PDCO) slumped 10 percent, and Cardinal Health (CAH) lost 4 percent. The drop came after the Wall Street Journal reported that Amazon was looking to distribute a variety of medial items.
The S&P 500 fell 10 points, or 0.4 percent, to 2,645 as of 10 a.m. Eastern time. The Dow Jones industrial average lost 114 points, or 0.5 percent, to 24,486. The Nasdaq composite slid 18 points, or 0.3 percent, to 6,963. The Russell 2000 index of smaller-company stocks declined 8 points, or 0.5 percent, to 1,483.
Athletic gear maker Under Armour (UA) rose 17 percent after reporting better-than-expected sales, as shoe and accessory revenue picked up.


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Swansea Man Indicted For Stealing Funds From Railroad Retirement Board
The United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today that Mark A. Lewis, 29, of Swansea, was indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in East St. Louis on charges that he stole unemployment benefits from the United States Railroad Retirement Board.
The indictment alleges that from January 2013 through May 2013, Fisher fraudulently obtained monies belonging to the Railroad Retirement Board, an agency of the United States, by concealing his employment status in order to receive unemployment benefits. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release.
An indictment is a formal charge against a defendant. Under the law, a defendant is presumed to be innocent of a charge and is entitled to a fair trial at which the Government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case was investigated by agents of the Railroad Retirement Board, Office of Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Liam Coonan.
If you suspect or know of an individual or company that is committing fraud against any U.S. Railroad Retirement Board program, you may report this to the U.S. Railroad Retirement Board's Office of Inspector General by calling 800.772.4258 or by e-mailing a complaint or information to: firstname.lastname@example.com


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The future of Fernando Alonso
The news at Monza that Kimi Raikkonen will stay with Ferrari for another two seasons came as a surprise in Monza, given the Finn's poor performances this year. He now lies fourth in the Drivers' World Championship, behind BMW Sauber's Robert Kubica, and has no realistic chance of challenging for this year's crown, as he is now 21 points behind World Championship leader Lewis Hamilton with only four races remaining. He has failed to score in the last three races.
The Ferrari announcement sends a clear message that the team is not interested in signing Fernando Alonso, until 2011 at the earliest and there is little point in Alonso holding on and hoping that Raikkonen will retire. Thus he is faced with either staying at Renault or moving to a new team. Renault has been disappointing for the last two seasons and there is little sign that this will improve in the future with the budgets being kept down and the lack of results meaning that the team is not pulling in as much money as it needs to take on McLaren, Ferrari and the manufacturer-backed teams of Toyota, Honda and BMW. Alonso may be comfortable in the team but his primary motivation at the moment is to win races. He has made sufficient money in his career not to have to worry about such things and what he needs now is to re-establish himself. His year at McLaren has seriously undermined the idea of his invincibility and teams are wary of signing him because of the political trouble he stirred up at McLaren.
BMW Sauber is the obvious choice for Alonso but there is a problem in that the team has contracts with both Nick Heidfeld and Robert Kubica. Heidfeld is paid $10m a year, but with bonuses last year pushing this up to $15m, there is some tension inside the team because Robert Kubica is doing a better job and wants not just money but also recognition of his work. Raising Kubica's salary and keeping Heidfeld would be expensive at a time when BMW is putting a squeeze on the team's budget. Similarly, paying off Heidfeld and hiring Alonso instead would be very expensive and it may be in the team's best interest to keep the same two drivers and use the money that is saved to continue to improve the cars.
Honda is making no secret of its desire to get Alonso. The team will pay his salary demand and there is some potential for the future with Ross Brawn in charge. It would also be a situation in which Fernando Alonso would have nothing to lose (except time) as the team can take the blame if things do not go well.
The other point of interest in all of this is that Renault will be in trouble if Alonso does walk away as there are no real top names available at the moment.


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This is an extremely important video.
When the American Physical Society, of which he was a long-time member, announced that the evidence for global warming was "incontrovertible," Nobel Laureate Ivar Giaever resigned.
"The only answer to that," says Giaever, was that "I resigned."
"Global warming has really become a new religion, because you can't discuss it, " says Giaever "It's like the Catholic Church. There are a lot of incontrovertible truths in the Catholic Church, I'm sure."
How do you get an average temperature when there are only eight thermometers at the South Pole?


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JP's Genre Drabbles
Link to Original Story: Genre Drabbles - JP
I have to admit, I'm pretty proud of these. Some more so than others, though. The horror one is pretty overtly ripped from Lovecraft (and even more so from the Call of Cthulhu video game), and it's not all that swell. Likewise, the fantasy one may no so much as qualify as fantasy, and is really more SpecFic, or, possibly, Random Junk.
I'm much happier with the other two, however. The SF one has gotten a really great response from those who have read it (okay, JED and C), which is funny, as I dashed it down desperately in the last minute; sometimes things just come together. My favorite, though, is the SpecFic drabble. It may not be the best on its own merit, but it doesn't have a single word repeated; not an "a," not a "the," not an "as." That was actually a little difficult to do. Is the effect worthwhile? Probably not, but what the hell. I did it, which is cool.
Let me just say that I hate JP. I absolutely loathe him. I detest him. His talent makes me sick to my stomach. I have dry heaves of jealousy. There is no doubt to me that he absolutely hit a home run with these stories. Apparently, drabbles are his natural element. I struggle to find anything more substantive to say, I am so perfectly awe-struck. His fantasy, though not exactly fantasy so much as parable is eleganty worded, clever and moral. His SF is elegant and brilliant in it's voice and it's ability to convey both comedy and drama - perfectly captures the efferevescent weirdness that is SF. His horror, Lovecraftian by default, is such an encapsulation of that master that the Great Old Ones could be channeling through JP's puny form. It grabs you with it's inescapable creepiness, the pervasive fear that is transformation and corruption. And finally, his spec fic bonus feature. So freakin' great that I don't even know what to say. He had to point out to me how it never repeated a word. It IS the 100 words. So damn good I'm not even worthy to understand it. I will say that it's spec fic in the general realm of Phantom Tollbooth and The Little Prince, but being compared to Antoine St. Exupery is no diss in my book. He is, without a doubt, one of my favorite authors of all time.


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Welcome to the Society's tours of historic Sudbury. We have two tours of the town's history available — an audio tour of the town center and a pictorial tour of sites throughout the town. You can take these tours from the comfort of your own home or you can walk the audio tour around town center or drive the pictorial tour throughout the town.
This tour covers thirteen locations in Sudbury Center. Each location has an audio description and a presentation from a character associated with the site. Equipped with your mobile phone or tablet, you can walk the tour in about an hour and hear Sudburians past and present describe Town Center.
The tour was written by Peggy Fredrickson, Martin Greenstein, Maria VonBrincken, Rachel Goodrich, Helen Marie Casey, Hal Cutler, Lee Swanson, and Tony Howes. The audio is presented by Betsey Cutler as Mary Loring, Maria VonBrincken and Rachel Goodrich as themselves, Diana Cebra as Florence Hosmer, Hal Cutler as Reverend Hurlbut, Joe Bausk as Forrest Bradshaw, George Connor as Capt. Moses Stone, John Drobinski as Charles Way, Terry Keeney as Lucius P. Bent, Peter Welsh as A.S. Hudson, Sally Hild as Sara Noyes, Lee Swanson as sexton, and Tony Howes as Resolve Haynes.
This tour covers thirty five Historic Sudbury sites throughout the town. The tour will take you about 3 hours with a mix of driving and walking.
You can also use our printable version of the tour.
The tour can also be found on Google Maps at Google Maps: Sudbury Tour.
The tour was originally written by Town Historian Curt Garfield for the Town of Sudbury. The following members of the Historical Society prepared this revised version of the tour:
If you have changes, corrections and suggestions on the tour, please email them to us at firstname.lastname@example.com (click here to launch email).
8. Town Hall
9. Grange Hall
12. The Hearse House
13. Town Pound
7. Town Common
10. The Hosmer House
30. Walker House
12. Grange Hall
35. Babe Ruth House
16. Goodnow Library
17. Mill Village
19. Wayside Inn Barn
|© 2009-2017 Sudbury Historical Society, Inc.
|Last updated 7/3/2016


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How To Open a Bank Account in SBI Online
Looking for online sbi bank account opening with zero balance? In this article I will share about how to apply for online banking in sbi online. Yes, one can easily open a savings bank account in SBI without visiting any branch. Here you have to follow the step by step guide below.
State Bank of India is one of the best banks in India. In fact this is the largest bank network in India where almost everyone is having a savings account. But if you have not opened a SBI account yet, then this article will help you do the same.
Documents Required to open a bank account in SBI
For each person who wishes to open the account, you will need to provide:
- 2 Recent passport-size colored photographs.
- KYC documents as mentioned in the AOF.
- If you give photocopies, please produce the original documents for verification when you visit our branch.
SBI Account Opening Process Online – Step By Step Guide
The account opening process has become very easy these days. Just follow the step by step guide below and get your first SBI bank account.
Step 1: First visit the Link Here to open the SBI online portal of account opening. You will find many information and guide about SBI account opening process.
Step 2: Click on the apply online button and then choose the Start new option. You will find a online form will appear to fill up.
Step 3: Provide all personal details and information carefully. his section will have to be filled for each person wishing to open the account. You must fill Part A first. Once you fill Part A and save the form, a Temporary Customer Reference Number (TCRN) will be generated which may please be noted.
Part A: Type of Account and Services Required.
Part B: Nomination Form (optional but recommended).
Step 4: After successful filling up of data in the account opening form, an SMS notification will be sent to 1st applicant's mobile number along with the TARN. Keep this number safe with your for future reference.
Step 5: Next you have to visit to the branch you have opted to open a bank account. Show the TRAN number and complete the remaining formalities and collect the necessary bank kit like passbook, cheque book, ATM pin etc.
Refer to SBI online official website for future updates of account opening online. You can also visit your nearest branch and ask for the process of opening bank account in SBI online. Have you find any difficulty while opening a bank account in SBI? Share your experience and any tips here by writing a simple comment below.


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Children's White Wiseman Gown & Headpiece (L)Item: 437-132
Recreate The True Meaning Of Christmas
Create a magical Christmas pageant with this Children's White Wiseman Gown and Headpiece. This child's gown costume is perfect for your Christmas production during the holiday season.
- Gown and headpiece included.
- White Wiseman gown is large in size.
- Made of polyester.
This Christmas, provide your church, school, or religious organization with the garments they need for a special nativity scene. Stock up on costumes and accessories to make your Christmas play, production, or a nativity scene complete!


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I feel like every time I open my mouth about Apple something negative comes out. I try to be positive, I really do, but the reality is that experience after experience, I just don't have anything good today.
I came into my office today to find my MacBook revving its fan's at high speed displaying a folder with a question mark. Rebooting only yielded a "click-click-click," classic HD failure symptom. Luckily nothing is important on this machine. This raises the first myth I'd like to dispel: "Apple hardware is of higher quality than others." FALSE! The truth is, Apple, Dell, HP, Lenovo, etc., all use pretty much the same hardware. At the end of the day, they all have Intel processors, ATI/NVidia/Intel video cards, and Maxtor/Segate/WD hard drives, and they all share the same failure rates.
I was actually somewhat excited about this failure as it'd let me test Apple's support first hand.
My initial call was answered by a routing agent within a few rings, but upon routing, I waited on hold for 20 minutes. I rarely wait more then 5 minutes with Dell. Upon reaching a tech, I was asked for my first name, phone number, and serial number. I was advised that I have a 1yr hardware warranty and that my 90 phone support warrantee had expired. "It's definitely a hardware issue," I said. The Apple rep kindly replied "OK, well what I can do then is start a support incident [requiring your credit card], and if it turns out to be hardware, we'll refund your money." I then asked what the next step would be and it turned out that for MacBooks, Apple does not offer advanced replacements or on-site technicians, rather you have to take it to an authorized depot. This regardless of warranty type.
My experience at the depot (MIAD) wasn't much better - A tech came to take my computer, but upon trying to enter in the information into his system, he was unable to do so because of a system problem. I waited for 20 minutes only to be told that "we'll enter it in later and send you the info." Not wanted to leave my laptop without any type of receipt, I had the tech write down all his info on a business card. I'm told I they will have a part within 24-72 hours, and fixed within 48 hours after that, depending on their volume (ie: it could be longer).
So all in all, I'm not overly impressed. Just for the sake of it, let's take a look at a "standard" warranty on a MacBook Pro versus a Dell Latitude:
|Standard Features
|Dell Latitude
|Apple MacBook Pro
|Phone Support
|90 days
|Hardware Warranty
|Hardware Replacement
|Next Business Day advanced swap, 4hr and 2yr available
|24-72 hours for parts + 24-72 hours for replacement, return to depot, no advanced swap available
|Onsite Technician
|For parts deemed not "customer replaceable units" (CRU)
|Not offered


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Definition of vernicle
n. - A Veronica. See Veronica, 1. 2
The word "vernicle" uses 8 letters: C E E I L N R V.
No direct anagrams for vernicle found in this word list.
Words formed by adding one letter before or after vernicle (in bold), or to ceeilnrv in any order:
s - vernicles t - ventricle u - virulence
List all words starting with vernicle, words containing vernicle or words ending with vernicle
All words formed from vernicle by changing one letter
Other words with the same letter pairs: ve er rn ni ic cl le
Browse words starting with vernicle by next letter
Previous word in list: vernations
Next word in list: vernicles
Some random words: pht ne enisle iproniazid tuatara huarache abaka
This is not a dictionary, it's a word game wordfinder.
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Published Nov 9, 2017
Who pours the best Guiness and serves the best fish and chips?
Good acoustics, great bands and a rocking good time. What is the best... see the Top 5 →
Have a place where the bartenders know your face and drink? Name your... see the Top 5 →
Whether its the big game or just another game, what is your favorite... see the Top 5 →
Great music, unique atmosphere, and yes, long lines. What's the best... see the Top 5 →
Whose wine list is top notch in your book? see the Top 5 →
Going on vacation? Where do you send your canine on its doggie vacation? see the Top 5 →
The 2017 Cincinnati A-List awards are based on more than 4,100 votes from local Cincinnati-area experts.


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I am so excited to be around all the animals that can be found in the Jackson area.
During the holidays while wandering around getting to know the area we got to see elk, moose, deer, bison and big horn sheep. Some day I would like a chance to see the wolves of Yellowstone and I should have plenty of time to get that accomplished, if not this year then the next.
I wish my pictures were better but I just had a point and shoot with me and no tripod. With all the possibilities for finding these neighbors out and about I am sure I will bore you with many more pictures of them in the years to come.
I would encourage any visitor to Jackson WY this time of year to go to the east end of town past the hospital and creep along The National Elk Refuge Road. The views of the elk, bison and sheep were amazing and different every time.


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Storing Food
Storing food properly not only helps to retain the freshness and quality of produce, it is also plays an important role in preventing foodborne illnesses.
Freezing & Defrosting Food
Freezing food is a great way to store produce for long periods of time whilst still retaining freshness and bulk freezing is perfect for minimising food wastage.
Handling & Preparing Food
Basic hygiene and common sense is detrimental whilst handling and preparing food to avoid the spread of potentially harmful bacteria.
Identifying Spoiled Food
Unfortunately, most fresh produce spoils at a quick rate unless frozen. However, tell tales signs of spoiled foods are easy to identify.


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- >About Us
- >Location
- >Contact Us
- Phone: (270) 651-2080
History & Staff
We have years of experience caring for families, from all walks of life. Each family comes to us because they know we are leaders in our profession, dedicated to excellence in service, and have the highest integrity.
Our History
A. F. Crow & Son Funeral Home is a family owned and operated firm established in Glasgow by Aubrey F. Crow, Sr. in 1928. In the late 1950's Mr. Crow's son, Aubrey F. Crow, Jr. became a partner with his father in the family business and in 1979 brought the third generation of the Crow family into the business when Aubrey "Follis" Crow, III purchased an interest in the business and continues as president and manager of the firm.
Our Valued Staff
L to R: Follis Crow, Kevin Beaty, Larry Self, Terry Wilson, Jennie Wilson, Jeff Jessie, Debbie Tinsley, Billy Allen
Aubrey Follis Crow III, President and Owner, Funeral Director
Follis is the third generation to operate the funeral home following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. The firm was established in 1928. Follis began his apprenticeship in 1971 and purchased interest in the funeral home in 1979. Today he is the sole owner of A. F. Crow & Son Funeral Home.


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I went to a collection reduction sale just about a year ago. I was about ready to check out but I was still looking around because I was not quite up to my spending limit. This Stellamizutaara (Stlma) Kelly 'Lea' caught my eye. It had two fading flowers. The colors were wonderful and I wanted to see what the flower looked like in full bloom. Now I know.
This plant is in sphagnum over peanuts in a 3 1/2-inch clay pot. There are seven pseudobulbs and a new growth. It stands about 5 inches above the pot. It is the cross Brassavola nodosa x Cattleytonia Keith Roth.


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This is not a story about a typical vacant house where hopeful residents can't move in because of the cost to purchase it.
An empty house in Mahomet has everything needed — including some furnishings — except the finances to pay workers.
Nineteen months ago, the Champaign-based Developmental Services Center bought and renovated a home for individuals with disabilities but can't hire enough staff members to open.
The utilities are paid monthly, the lawn is cared for, but if someone could open the doors, no one would be there.
It's an issue that is front and center for Mahomet resident Ted Curtin, who has lived in the community for close to 35 years.
Two of his children, who have disabilities, 30-year-old Kyle and 28-year-old Megan, have been in Mahomet all their lives. They are living with their dad, who retired in February after 331/2 years working for the city of Urbana.
His children had been approved to live in the group home, with two others. Each will have his or her own room.
Kyle Curtin's bedroom furniture was purchased and moved into what was to be his room.
"We thought everything was a go," Ted Curtin said. "We had a (celebratory) pizza party."
There's one problem, one huge roadblock.
"Because of wage rates, we can't find staff," said Dale Morrissey, CEO of Developmental Services Center. "We've advertised, we've done open interviews, created a TV commercial, radio ads, attended and hosted job fairs."
The state average for workers — known as direct support professionals — in group homes is $9.35 an hour. Morrissey said the DSC is willing to pay $11.06 per hour.
If all of the group homes in Champaign County were fully staffed, Morrissey said he could take a couple from another home and relocate them to Mahomet to help train new employees.
The fact is, he said, "we're so short-staffed, I need to fill 12 more spots in current homes to be able to open the (Mahomet) home.
"Even though it has been 19 months, we're committed and want to open this home."
Morrissey lost two valued workers — husband and wife Jessica and Josh Vandiver from Sidney — last fall. The couple has five children and couldn't make ends meet with their combined salaries.
"Every day was a struggle to get through," Jessica Vandiver said. "You never know going to work if you'll have enough people. I didn't feel like I was making a difference. The stress is difficult."
And yet, Jessica Vandiver enjoyed the work so much that she devoted nearly seven years working for DSC.
"It took me a long time to where I thought about looking for another job," she said. "I tried to push through for so long. I thought, 'I don't want to leave the people, but I don't make enough.' The longer you work, the closer you get to the guys. They're like your family. You think about them and you worry about them. When you're not there (at work), you're there.
"It was the hardest decision I ever made. When I got the job (with Carle), I wasn't sure I was going to take it. I had years of building relationships."
Both Jessica Vandiver and her husband are now employed by Carle, but that doesn't mean she has forgotten about her past.
"In order to have that job, you'll have to go without some things," she said, "but the unconditional love you get changes your life. I felt so guilty leaving them. I never cried as much as I did on my last day there. It has been months since I left and I think about (the residents she worked with) every single day."
Last year, Morrissey was optimistic that change was near. Bills passed the Illinois House and Senate that would raise the minimum wage for caregivers, but Gov. Bruce Rauner vetoed it.
"If people can get paid closer to $15 (per hour), we hope to attract more people to these jobs," Morrissey said. "It's hard work, but we believe statewide, we can compete with other entry-level positions."
Ted Curtin said it's important to have trained and skilled caregivers for the residents.
"The quality of the people you want for your sons and daughters," he said, "is the best of the best. The DSC is after that. They want the elite people.
"The thing holding them back is the wage is barely above minimum wage."
To open the Mahomet house, Morrissey said there needs to be a guarantee that at least two full-time employees would always be on the premises 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. He said he would need to hire "six to eight" workers locally in addition to a nursing staff.
Either a registered nurse or a licensed practical nurse would be required because at least one of the residents would require the services. Megan Curtin is a diabetic and her father said, "she needs four (insulin) shots a day, one at each meal and one at bedtime."
Curtin's wife, Debbie, is one of the persons who spearheaded getting a group home in Mahomet, he said.
She passed away in July, 2015. Ted Curtin is worried about what would happen to his children if he wasn't able to care for them.
He's not the only person with those concerns.
"It becomes a true emergency," Morrissey said. "Now, there's not a place for people to go."
Ted Curtin said it was originally an easy decision to work with DSC over other organizations.
"The personnel they hired were polite, kind and a bundle of joy with the kids," he said. "It was not an 8-to-5 job for them. They interacted and cared about the kids. You could tell. They go the extra miles."
Kyle Curtin has been and is a familiar face around the Mahomet-Seymour boys' basketball and baseball programs. He helps the coaches in any way possible.
"He goes to (baseball) practices and helps (coaches) Nic (DiFilippo) and John (Weimer)," Ted Curtin said. "Kyle is pretty self-sufficient."
As for himself, Ted Curtin has had to make changes since his wife passed. He doesn't rise at 4 a.m. on occasion to go on hunting trips, but said, "it's not a burden. It has given me more time to reflect on things and help Dale (with his efforts at DSC). Dale is pushing hard to try and get these bills passed. I want to help them out all I can because they are helping me."
As for invitations to social events, Ted Curtin has a standard policy.
"I use the attitude if my kids are not welcome, I won't be there," he said.
Morrissey said the DSC doesn't publicize the address of its group homes.
"The idea is they move in and fit into the environment," he said. "It's not a special home."
And when — not if, he said — the Mahomet group home opens, Ted Curtin has a donation ready.
"I have a basketball goal for the kids to shoot hoops in the driveway," he said. "I bought it last November. It's sitting in my shed."
When asked about the prospects the hoop might be used soon, Ted Curtin said. "I am upbeat about it.
"This is something my wife wanted to see, our kids in the group home. She worked as a volunteer at DSC and wanted to help get (other) people placed. When my kids are in the group home, it will be very emotional for me."
Meanwhile, Jessica Vandiver would like to think she hasn't said goodbye to the DSC forever.
"I hope someday I can go back," she said.
The Mahomet Citizen embraces discussion of both community and world issues. We welcome you to contribute your ideas, opinions and comments, but we ask that you avoid personal attacks, vulgarity and hate speech. we reserve the right to remove any comment at its discretion, and we will block repeat offenders' accounts. To post comments, you must first be a registered user, and your username will appear with any comment you post. Happy posting.


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What will the future of philanthropy look like in uncertain times?
In a September Globe and Mail article, Doug Saunders compiled a list of "Five schools of thought about where the world may be headed next." It is a thoughtful, robust analysis that includes scenarios of the future as dire as wholesale climate panic and the beginnings of a new Cold War. The focus in all five scenarios, however, is on power: emerging or declining, shifting allegiances and the possibility that we soon will have no world superpower in the future.
If the future is so bleak, how will we find consensus as a society on which global issues will require systemic change? And how will we find the right leadership to make that change happen?
None of Saunders' possible futures imagined a sustainable global ecosystem led by the young leaders being educated today. Nor were any of the scenarios informed by the young people we come into contact with at Social Innovation Generation (SiG), or the dozens of agencies and organizations in our orbit. And none of Saunders' scenarios imagined the announcement that came hot on the heels of his speculations.
Not long after Saunders' article was published, the heirs to the fabled Rockefeller oil fortune withdrew their funds from fossil fuel investments. "John D. Rockefeller, the founder of Standard Oil, moved America out of whale oil and into petroleum," Stephen Heintz, president of the Rockefeller Brothers Fund, said in a statement published in The Guardian. "We are quite convinced that if he were alive today, as an astute businessman looking out to the future, he would be moving out of fossil fuels and investing in clean, renewable energy."
This made the news because although the Rockefeller fortune was made in oil, this increasingly progressive foundation sees no future in its further exploitation. Then, just last week, multiple news agencies reported that the US and Chinese presidents had laid out ambitious new targets to cut pollution in a deal that negotiators hope will inspire similarly dramatic commitments from other countries.
It is becoming clear that with imagination, commitment and collaboration, broader, systemic change is, if not assured, at least possible.
Co-designing plausible alternative futures
I don't think it is naive to suggest a brighter future is at least possible. It's not as dire as Saunders' list of scenarios. We see evidence that positive change is occurring and that younger generations are engaged in co-designing plausible alternative futures.
The world needn't be so bleak, power-led, caught in a tug-of-war between old enemies. Of the sectors engaging in positive futures, the philanthropic sector appears interested in leading the way. Foundations are getting out in front of the curve: Unconstrained by policy or profit margins, they have been re-imagining their roles both in our uncertain present and our possible future.
While the Rockefeller Brothers Fund may be jumping ahead in the US, the J.W. McConnell Family Foundation in Canada is providing leadership and creating conditions for the exploration of social innovation acceleration and the amplification we need to get in front of our shared social and environmental challenges.
At the 2014 Social Finance Forum, Stephen Huddart, president and CEO of the J.W. McConnell Family Foundation, launched RECODE, an initiative with the goal of inspiring social innovation and entrepreneurship initiatives lead by young people in higher education institutions. This is one of dozens of initiatives being designed to build capacity for the next generation of leaders to see the possibilities, rather than the barriers, in the systems around us.
Future of philanthropy in uncertain times
Recently I was very fortunate to hear Shawn A-in-chut Atleo speak to a small circle of people on the topic of re-imagining philanthropy. He described the sea of change coming with the growth in young indigenous populations in Canada, and discussed how getting to change will necessarily mean integrating all parts of our national systems with aboriginal teachings and practices.
Nothing could be more exciting and more overdue. When I look toward our shared future, I see a convergence of challenges, certainly, but not hopelessness. Atleo described philanthropy as being aboriginal in nature—like the neighbourly give-and-take of a cup of sugar, the exchange is one of friendship.
On November 24, Stephen Huddart will speak at MaRS about Philanthropy for Uncertain Times: Social Innovation and Systemic Change. Join us to hear Huddart talk more about the potential of social innovation to contribute to an evolutionary shift in society's capacity to adapt in the face of complex challenges.
And if I may be so bold, I suspect he might agree with me: the times are uncertain, but we have options. Informed by history, indigenous practice and contemporary systems approaches, together we can work toward a more resilient, sustainable future. Register today!REGISTER FOR Philanthropy for Uncertain Times
Read more
- On seeking, sharing and systems change
- Innovation: The ultimate team sport
- Revolutionizing the way we work together
Geraldine Cahill
Geraldine is the Communications Manager for Social Innovation Generation, a group that addresses Canada's social and ecological challenges by creating a culture of continuous social innovation. See more…


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Re: Clare Eqizio
Dear Sir's,
I would like to take this opportunity to let you know on Tuesday, November 29, 2016 I came to your office and met Clare who gladly assisted me with getting a permit for the personal residence of Robert Smara. She was so very helpful and went over the call of duty to get the job done in time for the 5:00 deadline. It is not very often you come across such dedication. I just wanted to make you aware of the fine job she is doing and I, for one am very grateful.
William Fenton Langston
From: Lindsay Rabito
Sent: Thursday, March 19, 2015 10:23 AM
To: Mike Puto
Subject: Stacy Charlton
Good Morning Mike:
I have to take a moment of your time to mention one of your City employees, Stacy Charlton.
I had a question from a client that I did not know the answer to and in order to make sure I was relaying the correct information to him, I made an appointment with Stacy. She went over and above to make sure I understood the answers to all the questions I asked and since there were many, took the extra time to make sure I understood everything she told me. She also offered to speak to my client if he wished but once I relayed all the information to him he felt very comfortable with the answers and asked me to thank her for him.
It is so comforting and reassuring to have a City employee who will take the time and patience that Stacy did. I will highly recommend her to anyone who needs assistance in her department.
Sincerely yours,
Lindsay Rabito-Leonard, REALTOR
From: Gay Marie Smith
Sent: Thursday, March 19, 2015 4:56 PM
To: Stacy Charlton
Subject: Fw: Big Thank You!
Stacy – I would like to send this to you as said below not only is Melissa a great help to me with my projects, she helped a good friend of mine who does the permitting for their company and had never submitted anything to the City of Marathon.
Melissa is a great asset to the City of Marathon Bldg. Dept.!!
Gay Marie Smith
On Wednesday, March 18, 2015 7:56 PM, Gay Marie Smith wrote:
Hi Melissa – Thank you for being helpful to Lisa today of Reef Tropical Pools. She was very happy with you and said you made her process easy. I knew I was putting her in good hands with you as you are always helpful and pleasant whenever I call or stop by!
Great job Melissa! Would like to forward this email if you could send me the email addresses.
Have a great day!
Gay Marie Smith
From: Jerry Weeks
Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2014 7:57 AM
To: Council; Mike Puto; Sean Cannon; CityofMarathon
Subject: marina
To Marathon Officials
We are on a 41′ sailboat from Fairhope, AL and we were headed to the Bahama's in March and stopped here for one day to re-provision. Due to the high wind and my scrambled brain, we had a very difficult time securing our boat to the dock and Sean and Matt kept us from damaging our boat, two other boats and even the dock. Without their personal help we could not have made it. The next week we had to go to the boatyard for engine repair and on return all mooring balls were taken and the wind was again high so we repeated the keystone kop enactment. Again the marina staff saved major damage, which they also did when I left to tie up to a ball. Sailboats don't back up well and we had to turn around in the narrow channel at the dock and absolutely could not have done it without Sean shouting instructions to me from the dock.
Due to the weather and boat repairs, we are still here and have observed many days of seasoned sailors, irate customers, elderly dummies like me with CRS disease and new boaters with no knowledge of the water, come and go. At no time was your staff ever non professional, discurteous or disrespectful, something I doubt I could have done on tranquilizers. There is no one at the marina I would not be honored to work with as you should also be honored to have such representation for your fair city.
Jerry Weeks
S/V Encore
19888 Hunters Loop
Fairhope, AL 36532
On Tuesday October 25th, 2011, I had to bring my mother into Fishermen's Hospital due to complications from a previous surgery the week prior. They determined that she needed to be transported to South Miami Hospital. I then had the privilege of meeting Fire Medics: George Martinez and Isreal Duneas. What great employees you have in these two. They graciously transported not only my mother but myself. They were very personable and continuously talked with us on the way and calmed the situation. They were very compassionate and very organized as well as comforting. I wanted you to know how much we appreciated these two employees that you have. They are a true asset to your agency and their dedication shows. Please recognize them both. Thank you.
e-mail of July 28, 2011
Please know that I have received Exceptional customer service this day, proivded by your Manager of Public Works, Mr. Carlos Solis. Carlos, I truly appreciated your demeanor, knowlege and excellent customer service skills. Right on, City of Marathon for quality people!Thank you so very much,
Marathon, FL (a satified tax payer).
e-mail of April 29, 2011
I had the need this morning to contact the city clerk for some advice on obtaining legal property documents. I have found in my 7 yrs here that most people I have contacted here are not necessarily rude but don't go to far to help you. I call it Keys disease. This observation is just general and not necessarily dealing with any government entity, however, Diane, your city clerk is at the opposite end of the spectrum. This lady went above and beyond to assist me in finding my solution. What a gem and a pleasure to deal with. No she is not a relative of mine, I have never met her before but it speaks so well for the city to have this kind of attitude greet you on the phone. On the 10 scale I give her an 11.
Article from Keysnet.com (Keynoter) posted on Saturday, March 26, 2011
In this day and age, when we are all so disenchanted with our government at all levels, I was not expecting much when I phoned the Monroe County Sheriff's Office to report a boat dumping tires into a canal in broad daylight.Instead, several groups at the county, state and local levels worked together seamlessly. Phone calls were made and information was forwarded, and the tires were picked up four days later.For this I wish to express my gratitude and thanks to Edward Russell and Lisa at the state Department of Environmental Protection, who forwarded photos my husband took of the offending vessel to the state Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission; FWC Lt. David Dipre, who contacted me to gather information; Richard Jones of Monroe County Marine Resources, who also made calls on my behalf; and Richard Tanner at the City of Marathon Marina, who came out by boat with an assistant to retrieve the tires from the water.
All of these individuals were as outraged as I was by this selfish, disrespectful act. As of this writing, the perpetrators have not yet been identified, but with the help of these caring public employees, I am hopeful that they will be.
Helene Colonna
Letter from March, 2011
I had the misfortune of being involved in a rear-end collision on Monday morning (Feb. 28) on US1 and t Street. I would like to thank everyone who came to my aid, from the gentleman who was at my side as soon as soon as my car came to a stop to the EMT's and to everyone who took care of me at Fisherman's Hospital. I have lived in Marathon for 25 years and never had the need for these great people to come to my aid, but when they did, their kindness and professionalism was outstanding. I don't know who the gentlemen was who appeared at my side when my car finally came to a stop, but "Thank You" who ever you are for staying with me until the EMT's arrived. Thank you to the ambulance crew, you guys are awesome and last but certainly not least, thank you to everyone who took care of me at Fisherman's Hospital. Not to be forgotten is the FHP officer who came to the hospital to return my drivers license, he couldn't have been nicer. I am so lucky to live in a community of such wonderful and caring people. My car is history but I am thankful that I was the first car at the red light and wasn't "sandwiched" with another car when hit and also very lucky that there wasn't another car coming out of 109th Street for it could have been so much worse.Sincerely,Karen Kelly
Letter from March, 2011
Letter to Marathon Fire Rescue
I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate all the firefighters and trainees that have helped me this past month. My blood pressure machine broke and I need to take my pressure twice a day. I have been coming to the firehouse twice a day and the people there have been so professional and personable, they have always shown courtesy to me and that means quite a lot. Everyone seems to go out of their way to help me, thanks to you all. You are very lucky to have the type of people working for this community that you do. I just wanted to make sure someone recognized the quality people you have.
Thanks again,
Pastor Bob Robinson, Ohio
Letter from November, 2010
Letter to Jason Backhaus, Edwin Marquez, Chris Cameron, Sam Wegner, Thomas WohlersThanks to all of you who took such gentle and professional care of me. Angels be with you.Helen Calchpole White
email of November 2, 2010
From: Nancy Komenda
Sent: Tuesday, November 02, 2010 12:48 PM
To: Richard Tanner
Subject: Marina Staff
Richard Tanner,
My wife and I have a sailboat, a Hunter 410 called "Illusion". We came into Boot Key Harbor in 2004. We have our boat at Marathon Boat Yard, in October we splash it and stay at the Marathon City Marina, we put in the "hard" in May. We have a seasonal business on Cape Cod, a motel so we have to go home and work during the spring, summer and fall.
Under the leadership of Richard Tanner, there is a great staff at the marina. Jeff, Sean, Jenny, Matt, Anne, and Bob "are all of great assistance to mariners in the mooring field and on the docks".
We appreciate all the upgrades Marathon has made to the marina. Every year since 2004, we have seen great improvements. I expect soon it will be so crowded we will be unable to find a spot to moor or dock.
The East coast knows about Boot Key Harbor. You didn't have a mooring in the mooring field, during the winter season last year. When the boater's leave here for home, they say on the net "this best harbor and Marina in the USA, Boot Key Harbor in Marathon."
Jeff and Nancy Komenda
e-mail of October 6, 2010
I am sending this to you in regards to Hillary Harrison. I would like to let you and those within the City know that she demonstrates a high level of customer service, knowledge and professionalism. I needed some information on a building permit (for a bank); I could not come up with the necessary information from Tax Collector / Property Appraiser, as permits were still open. I called Marathon Building Department where I spoke with Hillary, who informed me she had a few irons in fire and would get the information as soon as she completed the tasks she was working on.
Hillary had the information in my hand in less than 24 hours and asked if I needed anything else, a rare question from many employees.
I felt that the leaders in the City of Marathon should know they have an employee that cares about her job and the people who depend on them for information. As a former Islamorada Mayor and Councilman I can say with confidence that Hillary is an asset to your City.
Best Regards;
James V. Mooney Jr P. A. AHWD
Moorings Realty, Inc.
e-mail of August 15, 2010
Ms Snead & Mr Hernstadt,
It is a rare scenario that I actually take the time to do an outreach like this. My wife and I sailed into Marathon during a storm in mid April, and the staff at the marina, combined with the people we have had the pleasure to meet in town made us decided to stay in Marathon, and call it home.
I my past fifteen years of have been producing large corporate trade-shows and conferences I have had the privilege of being accustomed to a very high level of service. I want to let you both know that I am thoroughly impressed by the whole team and especially the management at the Marina for the city of Marathon. Every experience I have had so far has been top notch, and driven by customer service. Just the other day an employee went out of their way to answer questions for me that were in no way related to their core responsibilities, but helped me solve a technical issue I was having.
I see the challenges that the team running the marina face with certain elements, and in each case that I have noticed from afar, they are being professional, honest, and doing what is in the best interest of the city and the individuals that call Boot Key Harbor home.
You truly have a special team running this operation for the city, and as they are the official greeters for most people that arrive from the water, some traveling from distances far away, I can tell you with certainty that you should be proud that they are a key face of the city.
I am sure that no operation is ever successful without effective management, guidelines, and oversight, and with that in mind I want to thank you both personally as well for supporting and leading this team.
Charles Badoian
Letter of July 16, 2010
8900 Overseas Highway
Marathon, FL 33050Dear Lt. Devitt et al,
I wish to thank you for your assistance on the night of July 5, 2010. You took good care of me while I was transferred to Fishermen's Hospital. Everyone was extremely nice, showed great concern, and treated me with the utmost respect. You were made of aware of my condition and treated me promptly and saved me from the serious harm that could have resulted otherwise. I thank you for your caring concern, and feel good knowing that Marathon has such wonderful people working on behalf of its citizens,
Thanks again for all you do. While I hope to never need your services again, I know if I do require assistance, I hope to find the same great level of care from the same smiling faces.
Robert W. Endholz
e-mail of May 15, 2010
Sent: Saturday, May 15, 2010 8:43 PM
To: Richard Tanner
Subject: Good Job!!
I want to express our appreciation for the great "Customer Service" that you and your crew provide to us boaters when we are at your facility – and even beyond. We have spent two winters in Marathon and have been given pleasant, courteous attention by you and your entire crew.
We have been on extended cruising for the last 10 years and have consequently been at many East coast marinas from Maine to Key West, and in the Bahamas. In some places we have been made to feel like we were "interrupting" something in the normal processes of boating, docking, or conducting business. Marathon certainly could be an example of positive service for some of these marinas.
Having managed businesses myself, I know that the most often heard words are complaints, so I want to pass on compliments to you for creating such a "Boater Friendly" atmosphere. You and your staff are always ready to help or answer questions. You are very gracious when given a compliment, and refer to the staff as doing a good job. But, having been there, done that, I know that the person in charge creates the example and manages the operation, and therefore deserve credit. Hats off to you, Richard.
In the first paragraph, I mentioned "beyond" Marathon. By that I mean that we just received mail that had been sent to Marathon after we left, and someone took the time and effort to look up our names and addresses and forward that mail to our permanent address. Just another example of how you guys "go the extra mile" in providing service that is not expected.
Please pass along a "Hello" and our compliments to Austin, Anne, Jenny, Jeff, Sean and Bob for us.
Thanks again,
e-mail of April 26, 2010
Sent: Monday, April 26, 2010 12:13 PM
To: Eric Dunford
Cc: William Wagner
Subject:flare and fire expo
We had many positive comments from the people that came and actually got to be "hands on" with flares and the hear the explanation of fire extinguisher use. Each said how informative it was…the flare and fire demonstrations, being able to board the 33′ CGboat, the safety equipment displays, and of course they liked the free cushions, hot dogs drinks and chips provided by Centennial Bank!
We ended up with four large boxes of outdated flares and aerials that the Sheriff's department picked up at the end of the day. With this successful learning experience, we look forward to next winter and planning another event such as this.Sincerely,
US Coast Guard Auxiliary
Flotilla 13-2
e-mail of April 7, 2010
We were weathered in for over 1 week this winter and what a winter is was!!My wife and I were very pleased with the professionalism of the staff, the cleanliness of the facility and general operation of the marina.We plan on returning next winter and extending our stay for the month.
Keep up the good facility.
Frank and Pam Mathon
Tuggin' Aweigh
R25 Ranger
e-mail of March 6, 2010
To: William Wagner
Cc: Lisa Watson; Clara Werner
Subject: chris sanchezChief Wagner III
As published in the Florida Keys Keynoter Wednesday, March 03, 2010
What we always knew has been validated by the actions of those that were involved with the fire in our mobile home on Feb. 20, specifically, that this community cares about its own.While the loss of the material items is tough to deal with, the demise of our childhood residence is devastating. Our mom and dad brought this trailer to this very address in 1968. We were raised here, accumulating more than 40 years of memories.Our heartfelt thanks to the firefighters, the Sheriff's Office deputies, the staff of the Marathon Veterinarian Hospital, to those friends and neighbors who so unselfishly offered to help in any way they can, and continue to do so. These friendships are beyond measurable value.
You are our heroes, one and all.
Denise Child-Pankow
Dana, Hannah and Aydan
As published in the Florida Keys Keynoter Saturday, February 13, 2010
My mother Frances was taken by ambulance on Feb. 8th from my home to Fisherman's Hospital due to an accident in which her finger was severed and hanging by a thread.
The purpose of this note is to express my sincere appreciation along with my mother's. The outstanding service, kindness, gentleness and respect shown to both of us by Rudy and his crew was amazing. My mother is 86 and they put her at ease (as well as me; I was very stressed), explaining what was happening along with what was needed.
I am very grateful to all of those who came to our aide. Rudy and the crew will always be in our thoughts as an outstanding group of men. They were well versed and attentive.
I also know Clara; she is amazing. Marathon is blessed with such talent with our fire-rescue personnel and EMT's.
Charlotte Quinn


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Join us Sundays at 11am for service!
Welcome to a church that works for peace, justice, equality, and care of Mother Earth. An extravagant welcome to you because of your gender identification or sexual orientation, ethnicity, economic situation, physical and mental challenges, doubting or believing, being depressed or full of joy. We are a community of curious and creative spiritual seekers, striving to learn and embody the Way of Jesus and other religious leaders. Like Jesus, we focus on the plundered and the marginalized, as we try to address the major issues of our day. One of the ways we seek to heal the world and ourselves is through sharing parts of our personal story. WE ARE ALL WELCOME HERE!


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Avalon clients with health challenges can greatly benefit from a holistic, integrated approach to their recovery process. While natural health products and therapies are becoming more available in society, most people still struggle with their need to develop an effective recovery strategy that addresses their individual needs. Avalon's recovery support team is made up of qualified, compassionate practitioners from our Healers Guild who can help resolve a wide variety of common illnesses and injuries. Our clients desire an educational approach that facilitates understanding of a range of holistic care options, as well as lifestyle tools to improve their emotional and spiritual well-being.
Avalon's Health Recovery Intensive is taught in as a 3-day workshop program. We have found that healing is best supported in a small, intimate group setting. Our client group will be able to share their personal health issues in a caring and confidential circle. Participants will also benefit from the quiet, natural environment of our Avalon Retreat Centre.
We believe that the fundamentals of health restoration are the same, no matter what the condition, so we offer a comprehensive overview of proven healing pathways and lifestyle wellness essentials. Participants will be able to learn about and directly experience a variety of different therapeutic modalities. Our recovery support team will provide guidance to participants in preparing their own Health Recovery and Lifestyle Wellness Plan. We empower our clients to take responsibility for their own well-being and assist them with evaluating alternative treatment options. Their personalized Plan will map out steps towards desired lifestyle changes and identify therapies that can improve their overall health
Day 1 – Fundamentals of Mind-Body-Spirit Healing
The first day includes some personal sharing by participants and an overview of current thinking on physiological, nutritional, energetic, environmental, emotional and spiritual aspects of healing. We reference leading research and positive results being achieved in integrated medical centres, holistic health programs and university institutes across the world. We discuss our own "twelve step program" relevant to all health conditions, that can lead to a successful recovery and a better life:
Developing a positive state of mind
Releasing old emotions and energy blocks
Letting go of addictions
Assessing your life purpose and priorities
Managing stress and pain
Improving your living and work environment
Detoxification and cleansing
Nourishing the body with organic food and herbs
Relaxation, play and gentle exercise
Building a social support network
Connecting with nature
Honouring your own heart and spirit
Day 2 - Exploration of Holistic Therapy Options
The second day introduces natural health solutions that may either compliment or serve as alternatives to pharmaceutical drugs, surgery or other medical interventions. We support our clients right to make an "informed choice", and assume they are being advised by their physicians as to the relative risks and benefits of conventional medical treatment. Our client group will have access to the diverse therapeutic options represented in our Healers Guild, which includes but is not limited to the following modalities:
Massage and Lymph Drainage Therapy
Physio and Craniosacral Therapy
Chiropractic Treatment
Yoga, Meditation and Biofeedback Techniques
Active Bodywork eg. Feldenkrais Method
Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture
Naturopathic Medicine and Therapies
Homeopathic Approach
Energetic Healing eg. Reiki, BodyTalk and Healing Touch
Counseling and Cognitive Therapies
Music and Vocal Therapies
Environmental Health and Feng Shui
Occupational Therapy and Ergonomics
Emotional Freedom Technique
Magnetic or Vibrational Healing Tools
Our attending practitioners will provide a general theoretical introduction to these techniques and traditions, as well as demonstrate some holistic treatments or exercises to give participants a direct experience of potential benefits.
Day 3 - Preparing a Health Recovery and Lifestyle Wellness Plan
The third day provides an opportunity for participants to further discuss therapeutic pathways and start developing their own Health Recovery and Lifestyle Wellness Plan. We will provide a pre-formatted personal planner and will introduce our Personalized Coaching Service and Avalon Rose Wellness Programs, which they may elect to register for as part of their healing journey. Several faculty practitioners will be on hand to answer questions and guide our clients through the planning process. We will close with a heart-centering meditation and group social.
Faculty: TBA
Dates and Times: July 13, 14, 15, 2012 (Fri - Sun) from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Venue: Avalon Retreat Centre, #2 – 4025 Field Rd, Kelowna
Cost: $595.00 non-members
$535.50 members
Registration Notes: TBA


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CELINA - Hillwood Communities, the master-planned development, has acquired an additional 244 acres in the growing North Dallas submarket. Hillwood is a Perot company.
Hillwood plans to break ground on the development in September 2016, with the first phase of homes being completed in late 2017.
The new project will include approximately 900 single-family homes, resort amenities, multiple community parks, an onsite elementary school, miles of trails and space for new retail venues.
The home price range is estimated to be from $275,000 to $400,000, with the development's expected contributions to the city's tax base to exceed $300 million at build out.
Our twice-weekly e-newsletter provides a quick overview of Texas real estate markets. Because your time is valuable.


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April 15, 2013 ― Seasoft Software today announced its new web-based Sales Portal, a complete B2B e-commerce solution that enables seafood distributors to increase sales, improve customer service, reduce errors and better manage transactions with customers.
Designed to work with any web browser (i.e., Internet Explorer), the Seasoft Sales Portal's convenient web-based Quote and Sales Order Entry module streamlines sales by letting your customers submit product quote requests and place orders online for immediate processing.
A simplified quote template makes it clear to your customer what the different options are and ensures consistency of quotes while eliminating omission errors and reducing the time spent creating quotes. In addition, the portal provides seamless integration with Seasoft's Inventory Control and Order Entry back-office database. Customers can submit quotes or enter sales orders from a single-page input screen for maximum simplicity.
The Sales Portal also includes a suite of integrated web-based self-service tools that let your customers interact with your business online 24/7. Customers can request product quotations, submit sales orders and view their account information with your company on-demand.


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ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. / HOUSTON – The Sam Houston State track and field team went through its final tune up of the indoor season prior to the Southland Indoor Championships, splitting its squad and sending athletes to a pair of meets over the weekend.
The Kats sent athletes to both the Don Kirby Invitational in Albuquerque, along with the Howie Ryan Invitational in Houston. Sam Houston would come back from New Mexico with a pair of individual titles, while Baylee Lara would return from Houston with a title in the 60-meter hurdles to her credit.
Coach Dave Self's crew will now turn its attention to Birmingham, Ala., and the Southland Conference Indoor Championships, set for Feb. 21-22.
Don Kirby Invitational – Albuquerque, N.M. (Full Results)
Chris Jefferson turned in another great effort in his events, turning in a third-place finish in the 60-meter dash with a time of 6.74 in the finals in addition to coming in fifth in the 200 meters with his time of 21.11.
Fabian McCall finished with his best time of the indoor season as he posted a 7.87 in the 60-meter hurdles, a mark that is tops among all Southland runners this season.
Josh Hernandez would give the Kats a second men's title with his throw of 63-06 in the weight throw, a mark nearly a foot better than his closest competitor, Justin Stafford of UCLA. Zachary Johnson's 50-02.75 was good enough for fourth in the triple jump.
On the women's side, reigning SLC Athlete of the Week Camry Grigsby finished fifth in the 800-meter run. She turned in a time of 2:06.93, a mark nearly six seconds better than her previous season best set a week ago in Lubbock.
Freshman Selena Wright turned in an 8.41 in the finals of the 60-meter hurdles to finish fifth, while Tristyn Allen shined in the triple jump with her third-place finish after her distance of 42-02.25.
Howie Ryan Invitational – Houston (Results)
On the women's side, Jasmin Mitchell would turn in a third-place finish in the 400-meter dash with a time of 58.50, and Rebeca Gonzalez' time of 5:11.87 in the mile gave her sixth in the field.
Baylee Lara claimed her first title of the season with an 8.50 in the 60-meter hurdles and also added a fourth-place finish in the long jump with her jump of 17-11.75 and a leap of 5-06 feet from Courtney Lord was good enough for fifth place in the high jump.
On the men's side, Alex Hernandez turned in a time of 8:47.15 for third place in the 3,000 meters and Tyler Adams' jump of 24-02.25 feet in the long jump was good enough for second place. Clayton Fritsch made noise in the pole vault on Friday by taking the crown by clearing 17-00.75 feet, two spots ahead of teammate Ashton Summers.


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For most of us, the diagnosis of Fibromyalgia comes with strict warnings about curbing our activities in order to keep our symptoms at bay. We're led to believe that with increased activity, our symptoms will worsen. And so, we go about our Fibromyalgia-controlled lives, taking tons of prescription medications to try and minimize the impact of these symptoms so we can go about our day-to-day activities. You know what? This is just plain WRONG!
Now, let's be clear. I am not a doctor. I do not claim to offer medical advice of any kind. What I do offer is my story and how my symptoms have reacted to exercise.
How do I do it?
Well, the first obstacle to overcome in adding physical exercise to your once-sedentary life is getting started. The key here is to find the right exercise for YOU. Not me. Not your friend. Not your sister that is perfectly healthy. YOU. I started with yoga several years ago – mostly because that's all I believed I could do. Also, I really love yoga. BUT, it wasn't enough. Find what works for you. Maybe it's walking. Maybe it's using the treadmill at the gym. Maybe you feel like really challenging yourself with something like Turbo Jam or Zumba. Whatever it is, just start. Start carefully. Maintain an awareness of your body and your wellness the entire time. But start.
Once you get the ball rolling and you start feeling what it does for you, I think you'll be hooked. I sure am. There have been multiple studies in recent years that have proven cardio exercise to be an effective way of minimizing the symptoms of FM. What hasn't your doctor told you? Hmm. You got me. That's why I do my own research so I can be in total control of my health, my fitness, and my condition. Relying on someone that is paid to tell you the answers may not always be the best solution.
The Results
Like all things, the results of physical exercise will differ from person to person. I know what the research suggests and I know what has happened to me as a result of dedicating myself to a cardio training program. A few things that can happen as a result of exercising:
- Strong Muscles. As you strengthen your muscles, your body is better able to ward off pain. The stronger you are, the easier it will be to move. You can prevent muscle atrophy, which is a common result of the lack of movement FM sufferers are instructed to maintain.
- Energy Levels. I've said it before and I'll say it again. I have energy. As you know, FM depletes all energy from the body. It's like you are completely exhausted 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Exercise gives you energy!
- Happy. It's been proven time and time again that exercise releases endorphins, which will instantly boost happiness. With depression and anxiety being very common for FM sufferers (including me), this was a HUGE help.
- Empowerment. This may be the biggest one for me. When I began my training program, I took control. I took BACK control from FM, which I had allowed to have total control for years and years. Actively participating in an exercise program gives you control of the process and it makes you feel powerful. Unstoppable even.
- Improved Sleep. Hallelujah! I can sleep. There's nothing like being exhausted 24/7 and unable to sleep. Ever. But that's what happens for most people with FM when they don't take measures to improve symptoms. Exercise makes you tired. You sleep. It's wonderful!
I'm in it for the long haul
I grew up playing tennis. I was very active throughout my childhood and much of my adulthood. Until I was diagnosed. I believed I couldn't live that life anymore. It was taken from me. But I was wrong. Now that I've found my way back to this amazing, active lifestyle, I don't plan to ever go back. This is a lifestyle change I've made for myself. I've also made it so that I am able to enjoy hikes, walks, and other activities with James and the rest of my family. I realize not everyone has the same story or the same symptoms. And for some people, this may seem impossible right now.
But, maybe you could try something. Maybe you could decide to go on a ½ mile walk every day for 2 weeks. And then you can go on a 1-mile walk every day for two weeks. And on and on. Maybe, just maybe, you'll notice something. Maybe you'll start to feel better. What do you have to lose? Your FM symptoms? Well, I certainly don't miss mine!