text:
Housing News Roundup: August 23, 2018
In Austin, concerns that Opportunity Zones will lead to displacement
Last week, Texas governor Greg Abbott released a list of 628 low-income census tracts across the state that qualify as "opportunity zones" for investment incentives; 21 of the qualified census tracts are in the fast-growing city of Austin. Though local officials designated four of the opportunity zones, they are concerned about displacement risks if the investment incentives lack clear safeguards. "Often, it's not a lack of capital. It's the lack of the right kinds of capital in fast-growing areas like Austin," said Christine Maguire, Austin's redevelopment division manager.
Source: Next City
Fair housing lawsuit against the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) dismissed in federal court
On Friday, a federal judge dismissed a lawsuit against HUD regarding the removal of a fair housing assessment tool. The advocates who filed suit argued that the removal of the tool, which enabled compliance-focused oversight, effectively dismantled the 2015 Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing rule and undermined their organizations' ability to enforce the rule. In her ruling, the judge noted that many components of the rule are still active and that "HUD's withdrawal of the tool does not 'perceptibly impair' the plaintiffs' abilities to carry out their missions."
Source: Washington Post
HUD accuses Facebook of housing discrimination
HUD filed a complaint on Friday accusing Facebook of engaging in housing discrimination through its targeted advertising. According to the complaint, Facebook's collection of personal data allows home sellers and landlords to discriminate based on disabilities and family status, among other things. As Anna María Farías, HUD's assistant secretary for fair housing and equity said in a statement, "when Facebook uses the vast amount of personal data it collects to help advertisers to discriminate, it's the same as slamming the door in someone's face." Facebook officials say they plan to address this complaint in court and will work with HUD officials to address their concerns.
Source: NPR
HUD's new Landlord Task Force aims to boost voucher acceptance among landlords
Recent studies by the Urban Institute and Johns Hopkins outline landlords' low rate of acceptance for housing vouchers and unwillingness to participate in the program in several urban housing markets across the country. This Monday, HUD announced the creation of a "Landlord Task Force" to identify solutions. The task force will host a series of listening sessions to obtain landlord feedback on the reasons for low participation. The first session will be held in Washington, DC, on September 20th, followed by meetings Philadelphia, Atlanta, Dallas, Los Angeles, Salt Lake City, and Salem, Oregon. The task force will conclude its work with a series of policy recommendations for Secretary Carson.
Source: Housing Wire
Atlanta BeltLine Partnership refocuses efforts on affordable housing
The Atlanta BeltLine Redevelopment Plan was announced back in 2005 with the goal of redeveloping the BeltLine with increased transit access, new parks and trails, and a substantial amount of affordable housing. However, the promised 5,600 units of affordable housing has fallen by the wayside with only 2,642 units built or preserved over the lifetime of the project; calling into question the equitable nature of the development. Atlanta BeltLine Inc., the agency responsible for the development, recently released a report from a cross-sector working group outlining how the agency can reach and potentially surpass their affordable housing goals. As the new interim CEO, Clyde Higgs emphasized, "this is absolutely the focus for the organization."
Source: Next City


text:
This is a wholesale site, you will need to login and get approved before you can make purchase. Thanks!
Torrii KeVable 3 in 1 Cable
Features: - Made with DuPont™ Kevlar® fiber - Fast charging and data sync...
Price Unavailable
Quick Installation Cabinet / Desk / Bookcase / Garage Magnetic Holder for iPhones / Smartphones
Product Description: This mount allows you to mount your smartphone firmly to cupboar...
Price Unavailable
CL03 Quick-on Lenses

subset: commoncrawl


text:
The hacker group Anonymous claims to have taken down 5,500 Twitter accounts of the pro-ISIS users on Tuesday, 17 November. The Islamic State group has taken the responsibility for the Paris attacks.
The organisation posted a tweet just a day after launching #OpParis campaign, aimed at shutting down social media accounts of the ISIS.
"We report that more than 5500 Twitter account of #ISIS are now #down! #OpParis #Anonymous #ExpectUs," said a tweet posted on Tuesday.
However, it is not clear how the accounts have been taken down. Anonymous said that it posted the accounts to an online forum labelling them as #daeshbags, where Daesh is an acronym for the Islamic State group in Arabic.
Make no mistake: #Anonymous is at war with #Daesh. We won't stop opposing #IslamicState. We're also better hackers. #OpISIS- Anonymous (@GroupAnon) November 15, 2015
"We can not fight them with guns and rifles," an Anonymous spokesperson told the BBC, "stopping their propaganda is an effective way to weaken their manpower and their presence in the Internet."
The announcement from Anonymous came via a YouTube video, though the video itself has been taken down. In the video, an Anonymous member wearing the group's signature Guy Fawkes mask said in French, "Anonymous from all over the world will hunt you down. Expect massive cyber attacks. War is declared. Get prepared." The speaker goes on to promise "we will launch the biggest operation ever against you."
The Paris attack coordinated by militant group ISIS left 129 civilians dead and numerous other injured.


text:
Photography: Dan Matthews; Food styling: Jack Sargeson
Benefits: Build lean muscle
Cost: ££
Preheat the oven to 180ºC. Heat some oil in a pan, add the onions and cook over medium heat for 5min. Add garlic, celery and carrots and cook for 2min more.
Next add the tomato paste and lentils. Let them warm through. Pour in the stock and spices, cover and simmer over a low heat for 40min, until the lentils are tender, then stir in the spinach.
Coat both sides of the salmon with olive oil and season. Heat an ovenproof pan on the hob, then add the salmon skin-side down, searing each side for 1-2 min. Place the pan in the oven for 6-10min, until the fish is cooked. Spoon a mound of lentils onto each plate and place the fillets on top.


text:
I have really struggled putting together a holiday reading list this year. I think it's because I haven't been reading much in general that I feel a bit out of the loop. I have a million paperbacks at home, but because of our limited baggage allowance I have had to make a few last minute Kindle purchases.
A Court of Mist & Fury
by Sarah J. Maas
This novel has been long anticipated. I read the first book in the series - A Court of Thorn and Roses - last year, and I actually found myself pre-ordering this one nearly straight after finishing it. I just fell in love with the characters and the imaginative story line. It is a definite must read from me.
The Queen of the Tearling
by Erika Johansen
As you may have already guessed, I love a good fantasy novel. I love anything that really takes me away from modern day and transports me into another world. Life is grim enough than having a book remind you of your lack of perfections in life. The Queen of the Tearling is another series (Gotta love a good series) that ties everything in from historical fiction to a completely dystopian world. Perfect.
Also on my 'To Read' pile is A Discovery of Witches and A Darker Shade of Magic, but I thought two fantasy novels was more than enough.
What is on everyone else's summer reading list?


text:
Blaze destroys Nipomo home, kills two dogs late Friday
A fire destroyed a house and killed two dogs in Nipomo late Friday night, according to County/Cal Fire.
A fire escaping a fireplace caused the fire just before 11 p.m. off of Pomeroy Road and Calimex Place, about a mile north of Tefft Street, Cal Fire reported.
Two people got out inunjured, but the 2,500-square-foot, two story home was a total loss, according to Cal Fire.
The agency estimated damage to the home at $500,000, plus $100,000 for its contents.


text:
Hello THERE!
You'll notice that my contact form is a little different than most photographers'. Wedding photography is an emotional, intimate thing. Taking a moment to get to know you + hearing all about your awesome wedding day plans is the best way to see if we're a good fit!
Wedding photography is art + art begins with a connection.
I can't wait to hear from you! Cheers! Xo!


text:
One of Kenya's and the coalition government's greatest achievements has been the promulgation of the constitution. However recent events surrounding the constitution's implementation call into question not only whether the political will to implement the constitution actually exists; but also whether we can depend on the members of the National Assembly to implement the provisions of the constitution within the time lines provided therein.
The new constitution curtailed to a certain extent the powers of the executive while simultaneously increasing the powers of the legislature. In the process of the welcome transfer of power from the executive to legislature the constitution created obligations on Parliament to pass legislation to actualise provisions in the constitution within specified periods of time. In effect the constitution tells Parliament what do, and when to do it, but is parliament meeting its constitutional obligations?
Yes there are several bodies charged with different roles in the implementation of the constitution however, constitutional implementation is very highly reliant on action by Members of Parliament. There are more than 50 instances in which the constitution requires Parliament to enact legislation to actualise the constitutions' provisions. Statements such us "Parliament shall, by legislation" or an "Act of Parliament shall" abound. The implication being that without the requisite action on the part of the National Assembly the constitution remains little more than legislative rhetoric.
This is why Parliament's recent action/inaction, seemly continuous infighting and the ensuing effect on the National Assembly's ability to follow through on their constitutional obligations is worrying:
o The formation of the Ethics and Anti Corruption Commission (EACC) now is long overdue. The commission was supposed to be formed one year after promulgation of the constitution. However the establishment of the corruption watchdog is still incomplete. Furthermore parliamentarians seem no closer to reaching an agreement on the nominees with a section of the MPs threatening to block parliamentary approval of the EACC nominees.
o A section MPs has vowed to block the recommendations of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Report on the delimitation of boundaries and substitute these with their own recommendations, no doubt protracted wrangling will ensue.
o The passage of legislation on devolution and land reform is still pending. The constitutional deadline for enactment of the legislation comes up on the 27th February 2012, less than 5 days.
However it seems parliament will be unable to meet the constitutional deadline for the passing the required laws. This week the Constitutional Implementation Oversight Committee (CIOC), the parliamentary body charged with overseeing the implementation of the constitution, filed a motion to have the deadline for passage of the bills extended by three months.
This is not the first time in which parliament has missed constitutional deadlines. Nor is it the first time in which there is a chance that legislation maybe hastily passed without requisite scrutiny in order to meet constitutional deadlines. It is also not the first time in which wrangles between parliamentarians have delayed or threatened to delay creation of necessary institutions or enactment of crucial legislation to actualise the provisions of the constitution.
Is Parliament responding adequately to its obligations under the constitution? Or given the way in which our parliament works and the tight timelines for enactment of legislation under the constitution, is it too much to expect the National Assembly to fulfil its mandate and pass all the required laws within the given time frames?


text:
Welcome to the new and improved E-Control Systems website, where you will find all of your wireless temperature monitoring solutions for Food Service, Healthcare, Life Sciences, and Refrigerated Trucks/Transportation Industries. Please check the blog ofte… Life Sciences… Life Sciences https://www.econtrolsystems.com/about-us/latest-news/2013/01/welcome-e-control-systems
With so many different requirements that must be followed with regards to temperature monitoring, including HACCP requirements, The Joint Commission, and AABB, people are investing in automated temperature monitoring systems. Done are the days of manually… https://www.econtrolsystems.com/about-us/latest-news/2013/02/need-wireless-temperature-monitoring-system
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is one of the oldest physical science laboratories in the nation. It was established in 1901 and is now part of the U.S. Department of Commerce. NIST is responsible for developing and maintaining m… https://www.econtrolsystems.com/about-us/latest-news/2013/03/nist-calibration-wireless-temperature-monitoring-system
Laboratory conditions call for very precise temperatures. For this reason, a finely tuned temperature monitoring system is one of the most important tools for a lab. A failure at a lab can often mean that life-saving vaccines get compromised or years of r… https://www.econtrolsystems.com/about-us/latest-news/2013/05/temperature-monitoring-systems-laboratories
As part of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Modernization Act in 2003, 21 CFR Part 11 was created as a criteria under which FDA considers electronic records to be trustworthy, reliable, and equivalent to paper records and handwritten signatures. https://www.econtrolsystems.com/about-us/latest-news/2013/05/wireless-temperature-monitoring-systems-and-21-cfr-part-11-compliance
With flu season among us, the storage and handling of vaccines is a very important subject. Mishandling of vaccines by storing them outside the CDC recommended temperature ranges can reduce the potency of the vaccine, and potentially not provide adequate … https://www.econtrolsystems.com/about-us/latest-news/2013/06/fighting-war-against-disease-proper-vaccine-storage
Application Programing Interface (API) is a set of routines, protocols and tools for building software applications. An API is a software-to-software interface. APIs allow applications to communicate with each other without the end user even realizing tha… https://www.econtrolsystems.com/about-us/latest-news/2013/10/wireless-temperature-monitoring-systems-api
Wireless Temperature Monitoring System for Life Sciences Air Freight. With regulatory compliance for temperature monitoring becoming more strict, DHL has introduced an air freight service specifically designed for temperature sensitive life sciences prod…cifically designed for temperature sensitive life sciences products… it reaches its final destination. Dedicated Life Sciences customer service teams will track shipments https://www.econtrolsystems.com/about-us/latest-news/2015/08/wireless-temperature-monitoring-life-sciences-air-freight
Cloud based computing has become so popular, that it's hard to imagine utilizing any system that doesn't have a cloud-based option. Businesses have benefited from cloud-based solutions by seeing a decrease in up-front costs and increase in user efficienc…life sciences and healthcare industries utilize cloud base https://www.econtrolsystems.com/about-us/latest-news/2015/08/cloud-based-temperature-monitoring-solutions-labslife-sciences-and-healthcare
The FDA signed the Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DSCSA) into law on November 27, 2013.The purpose of this law is to establish a "track and trace" system to protect the U.S. drug supply against counterfeiting and other practices that would pose a threat … https://www.econtrolsystems.com/about-us/latest-news/2015/08/fda-track-and-trace-law-pharmaceutical-supply-chain
Address: 14724 Ventura Boulevard Suite 1200 Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Phone: 818.783.5229
Be Social:
Not sure where to start? Right here. We offer free consultation, and will work with you to find out the best system for your needs. Request a quote today.
Request a Quote >
Copyright © 2019 | E-Control Systems Inc.


text:
HOME Multimedia and GraphicsCD Players Riviera for Skype Download
Riviera for Skype is a Skype call recorder. It automatically records Skype calls and conversations to MP3 files. It is convenient for recording interviews, tech talks, conferences, audio casts, pod casts for learning later, etc.
How it works: You make or receive a call in Skype and Riviera starts recording it automatically to MP3 file. You may start/stop recording any portion of the call at any time.
* Automatic and manual Skype call recording
* Records Skype calls of any type: Skype-to-Skype calls, SkypeIn / SkypeOut, Conference calls, calls to cells, etc.
* Records Skype calls of any length
* Recordings are stored in separate MP3 file
* No functional limitations in free trial version. Only 14-day trial period
* Skype Video Recording (soon)
* Built-in MP3 player for playing recordings
* Very easy to use - starts working immediately after launching, no configuration required
* Free support and advice
* Free lifetime updates and upgrades
* Ideal for recording interviews, conferences, podcasts
* System requirements: Windows XP/2000/2003/Vista/Windows 7
Download Riviera for Skype now and start recording Skype calls : http://www.jiteco.com/skype_call_recorder.html
To start download the software please click here:
Site 1 If you can not download this product please report us broken link
If you can not download this product please report us broken link
Software downloads related to Riviera for Skype
HD Call Recorder for Skype
HD Call Recorder for Skype is a easy-to-use tool for recording Skype voice conversations. It has the following advantages: * - It's FREE with no limits attached. * - Automatic or manual recording capabilities and more. more info download
Chat Translator for Skype
Real-time translation software to translate Skype chat to 20 languages such as Arabic, French, Chinese, Japanese, English, Spanish, Russian, for you to chat with people from more tha 20 countries. more info download
IMCapture for Skype
IMCapture for Skype - captures and records video and audio calls made from Skype for Mac OS X. Use ImCapture to record your call now. Share the file created by ImCapture later. Save important calls forever. more info download
IMCapture for Skype (Windows)
IMCapture for Skype - captures and records video and audio calls made from Skype for Windows OS. Use IMCapture to record your call now. Share the file created by IMCapture later. Save important calls forever. more info download
Free Video Call Recorder for Skype
Free Video Call Recorder for Skype is an absolutely free application for recording any Skype calls. It has a very simple interface. The output formats are MP3 and MP4. You don't need to install any extra libraries to be able to use the program. more info download
Reallusion CrazyTalk for Skype Media Edition
CrazyTalk for Skype Media Edition enriches your daily Skype communication with live avatars and instant media sharing. more info download
mcePhone for Skype
The software mcePhone for Skype makes it possible to use Skype in your living-room together with Windows XP Media Center 2005. more info download
Tweaks for Skype
Tweaks for Skype is a user-friendly tool to set up Skype. Administrative settings can be configured with only a few clicks. Many of the featured settings cannot be found in the Skype client itself. more info download
Translator Pro for Skype
Real-time translation software to translate Skype text messages to 80+ languages such as Arabic, French, Chinese, Japanese, English, Spanish, Russian, etc. With it, you don't need to copy-paste each sentences to Google Translator one by one. more info download
Reallusion CrazyTalk for Skype Lite
Get interactive faces for Skype animation using CrazyTalk for Skype, a fun Skype plug-in featuring interactively animated characters ready to energize your Skype conversations! more info download
Alax.Info NTFS Links
Alax.Info NTFS Links extends Microsoft Windows XP operating system shell by adding additional features related to soft and hard links supported by NTFS file system. more info download
Android TV Box
Android TV Box will help you to enjoy your free time or work. The newest Android TV supports internet on your TV for free. Very simple and very easy. more info download
Popular Downloads
Cheetah DVD Burner
Burn Dual Layer DVD+R, UDF Video DVD, UDF/ISO DVD, DVD+RW, DVD+R, DVD-RW, DVD-R, DVD-RAM, CD-RW, and CD-R disc's. Burn Bootable CD/DVD's, ISO Files, and Audio CD's from MP3, MP2, WMA, WAV, AVI and OGG files. more info download
TextAloud with RealSpeak TTS Voices
TextAloud converts any text into spoken words using Nuance (formerly ScanSoft) RealSpeak SAPI5 TTS Voices, Cepstral and NeoSpeech for the best in computer speech for your PC. TextAloud uses voice synthesis to convert text into spoken audio. more info download
Teleport Player
Teleport Player plays and edits "soundscapes" - environments created by sound. more info download
Complete CD &\; DVD Writer
Complete CD &\; DVD Writer (burner) is an easy-to-use CD and DVD writing software to burn your data (zip, exe, doc, etc.), image (iso, cue/bin) and audio (wav) files to CD or DVD. more info download
Mixere is a free Windows application for mixing audio files. Its simple, spreadsheet-like interface is ideal for live performance, and especially sound collage. Dynamic looping, fully automated sliders, gradual mute/solo operations, and more. more info download
Adensoft Audio/Data CD Burner
Adensoft Audio/Data CD Burner lets you quickly and easily to create high-quality audio cds from your MP3 files,It can also allows you to burn files or directories to your cd directly. more info download
SAM Broadcaster
SAM Broadcaster - Professional Internet broadcast DJ software. more info download
Nokia Ovi Player
Manage your Nokia music more info download
ViViDVD Player
Advanced media player for DVD, VCD, MP4,TV DVB,DivX, MP3, Wave, etc, mpeg,avi etc on your pc,Play DVD with Region Free. more info download
Saga CD Ripper
Saga CD Ripper digitally copies audio CD tracks to MP3, WMA, WAV and OGG files with excellent quality and fast speed. Saga CD Ripper offers rich options and you can set the bitrate and frequency. Supports FreeDB and tag-edit function. more info download


text: Altitones Thursday, June 23, 2016 7:00 PM 10:00 PM 19:00 22:00 Google Calendar ICS Do you like craft beer? Do you like to dance to good time music? Well we have both, this Thursday 6/23, at Vail Brewing Company in Eagle Vail! Get your head in gear, stretch those hips and hamstrings and come thirsty🍻The music starts around 7 pm!


text:
Writing this blog has been a strange experience for me. I have written it, for the most part, alone and away from much outside influence, and sometimes without much consideration for who I might be saying it to. It has always been personal and very honest. To the point where I think I may have raised a few familial eyebrows and cause some minor stirs...Read More
our blogging groom | yes to the wedding video
Videography. An absolute art and something I admire greatly. As a photographer I take as much inspiration from cinematographers as I do photographers. A well shot film can transcend its content (i.e. I can enjoy a rubbish film if it looks amazing). There are, like in every other field, good and bad...Read More
our blogging groom | gimme gimme gimme. the perils of the gift list
There are many ways to plan a wedding...
There are as many ways to do this as there are personalities doing it and there is no right or wrong way. Whatever works for you is what you'll inevitably end up doing. Probably not by choice, it's just what will come naturally.Read More
our blogging groom | don't get lost in lists, have an adventure
In the process of planning what we have, I've discovered that it isn't always a pastel coloured walk in the park. People tell you that it's only as stressful as you make it, but there's no denying that there are a lot of things to do. There are even more things to think about doing, and the list never, ever, gets shorter. It's quite easy at times to lose sight of what you're doing . . .Read More


text:
The CSE Experience
March 24, 2014
"Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn."
― Benjamin Franklin
Last week, I wrote about the importance of selecting the marketing mediums that are most effective for you and your business. The overall message communicated that marketing a small business requires the proactive efforts of the advertiser along-side your chosen marketing partner(s) (publisher, blogger, producer, etc.).
At PARAS Events, the Canadian Special Events Expo (CSE) has been integral to the growth of our business and demonstrates the importance of collaborating with your marketing and advertising partners. Inspired by the words of Benjamin Franklin above, being involved is the key to success in any strategy.
Today, I would like to share why the Canadian Special Events Expo has been beneficial to our business and why our firms proactive marketing efforts in tandem with the show producers fueled the growth of our company and my own personal growth as an event professional.
1) Platform to demonstrate your potential. CSE is one of the first trade shows I ever exhibited in back when I was 23 years old. I was the 'newbie' in a sea of seasoned professionals. I was very intimidated by this as I felt it was important that I held my own amongst all of my peers. I worked very hard on my design work but feared that I would not be able to 'compete' on the same level as the other participating designers. Personally, I had a lot to prove. I had just left school and this was my 'first' opportunity to make my mark. CSE allowed me to demonstrate my potential as a designer and introduce my design aesthetic to the industry. It allowed me to develop my signature as a designer and figure out where I 'fit in' (or as I learned a few years later, how I would 'stand out').
2) Propelled my event business. I originally participated in CSE with the intent to generate sales, but I quickly learned that CSE was going to be a marketing medium that would allow me to increase awareness of our business through strategic industry partnerships. CSE is where I learned about 'co-opetion' from my colleague, Ken Kristoffersen of POP Kollaborative. Part of my growth in this industry has come from the understanding that you cannot merely 'compete' with your peers -you must collaborate to collectively elevate our profession through increased value, depth of creative thought, and higher standards of production. CSE allows you to learn from top wedding professionals and thought-leaders from around the world and forces you to evaluate your own business, its operations, and strategies.
3) Friendship. I have made so many of my long-standing friendships with those I met at CSE over the years. Not only do I work with them on a continual basis, but they now represent my close inner circle of individuals that 'lift me higher' with their positivity, collaborative nature, and support. We work on events together, support each other in the 'ups and downs' of being an event professional and navigating the work/life balance that so many of us strive for. Many of us have 'grown-up' in the industry and it has been a privilege to be apart of so many amazing journey's.
4) Networking. This is perhaps the greatest benefit of being involved with the Canadian Special Events Expo. CSE is an opportunity to learn from other event professionals and ignite a dialogue with many of your mentors. There is no other Special Events conference in Canada that provides the same access to the diverse group of event professionals in attendance at CSE and all of its social events, educational seminars, and the trade show floor. This is a great opportunity to learn from the best. My business has been shaped by the many insights shared at CSE over the years.
5) Star Awards. Our firm was nominated for our first Star Award in 2004. I was 23 years old and was beyond thrilled to hear of the great news. The nomination gave me confidence, validated my swift career change, and positioned me as a serious design professional. More importantly, the nomination gave me a sense of belonging to the industry I was growing into. My parents came with me to my first gala and we sat with the ISES Toronto team. That night, upon hearing we had won, I was overjoyed, but equally nervous. I completely froze (and was somewhat star-struck by Jocelyn Flanagan of E=MC2 Events who presented the award to me) during my acceptance speech and don't even remember what I said. That night, I became one of the youngest recipients of a Star Award. The Star Awards gala is an opportunity to celebrate with those who do the same, but also an night to celebrate the accomplishments of so many leading event professionals who are committed to their craft and elevating the profession.
The Canadian Special Events Expo continues to be a highlight for the Canadian Special Events Industry annually. PARAS Events has been continually involved in different capacities throughout the years and the show has personally been an influential part of the event professional I have become today. I am feeling a little nostalgic as I write this post today. So many friendships made, so many lessons learned, numerous design challenges and exhibit designs, and lot's of fun parties over the last eight years. I cannot forget to send a big thank you to Mark and Stacy for their continued support and helping my inner light to shine.
I am looking forward to another amazing week at Canadian Special Events Expo 2014! See you there!
PS -I will be speaking at the conference this year on 'Igniting the Creative Process'.
Interactive Marketing
March 20, 2014
As entrepreneurs, it can be difficult to determine the marketing methods that will be most successful for our business. I have taken the approach of 'trial & error' for most of my career and tried my best to remain as diverse as possible in the marketing mediums we choose. Over the years, it has become very obvious which methods have been most successful AND more importantly, proven successful for our business.
Thousands of dollars are spent on marketing our event businesses each year. Like many of you, I have exhibited at bridal shows, advertised in magazines and blogs, accepted invitations to join exclusive communities, and participated in editorial shoots. I have learned that it is not enough to rely solely on the marketing methods above to achieve substantial return. It is essential when purchasing advertising for your business that you support and market your involvement in these publications, websites, blogs, and wedding shows.
As I reflect back on all of my experiences, I can begin to articulate the approach that has worked best for us and elaborate further on the importance of 'interacting' with your own marketing and promotions.
1) Distinguish the difference. When purchasing a marketing opportunity, distinguish whether it will be for the purpose of generating awareness for your business and your brand or to generate sales. Sometimes, we confuse that one singular marketing method will achieve both with the same strength. Allot your marketing dollars to strategically maximize your presence in the industry and to potential clients by making this distinction and reviewing it on a yearly basis.
2) Support your own marketing initiatives. Unfortunately, it is not enough to advertise in magazines and blogs or exhibit at wedding shows solely. You must actively promote your participation in these marketing methods to maximize your return on investment. This means using social media, monthly newsletters, and your company blog(s) to generate awareness of your involvement in a magazine editorial, blog style shoot, and/or wedding show (for example) to draw potential clients to your business and strengthen your brands effectiveness.
3) Take ownership of your own success when advertising. It is easy for us to say that a particular marketing medium has 'not worked'. I will be the first to say that there are specific mediums that I will probably not entertain any further. That is not because I don't believe in their ability to work or have anything against them. They simply just did not work for me and my business. Taking ownership of your own success in marketing means having copies on hand of magazines you are featured in to review with clients or share with colleagues, sharing your blog features on social media (Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter at three strategic times during the week), and/or blogging about the design/planning process you are undertaking when designing your exhibit at a wedding show. Create excitement around your brand and the marketing methods you choose. All of the examples above, extend the life of your marketing.
4) Take advantage of the 'free' marketing mediums that are now available to all of us. As we all know, social media has an immense effect on the success of a business today. If you are not active on social media, you are missing out on huge opportunities to solicit leads and build awareness for your business and building a strong brand presence. To this day, I continue to participate in webinars and attend workshops on how I can increase my footprint (as an event professional) in the social media-sphere. I am currently working on developing my SEO as that is still something I must improve upon.
5) Establish how you will position your brand in all of your advertising mediums and be consistent! Your business will feel the affects if your branding and presence do not remain consistent. That means a streamlined graphic identity, consistent voice on social media, your newsletters, and blogs, office space that is aligned with your design aesthetic and corporate identity, dynamic marketing material, and finally an IMPACTFUL website that ties it all together. One of the best decisions I ever made for my business was to work with a professional branding expert.
6) Attend networking events to build your businesses presence. There is definitely an art to networking and depending upon the industry you come from, your approach will be different. I don't have any formal training in networking and for those of you who know me well, you are aware of how shy and introverted I can be. What I have learned over the years is that networking events are not solely an opportunity to 'sell', but rather an opportunity to establish a human connection and build friendships of trust and support amongst your peers in the industry. If you are personally not attending industry events and conferences, how are you communicating your brand message on a more human level? It's the human connection that makes the difference.
7) Collaborate with those whom you advertise with. I have had the pleasure of working with some amazing publishers, bloggers, and show producers throughout the years and their support has been immeasurable. One of the most important things I have learned from them is that so often we see advertising as a 'transaction'. In the case of magazines, we receive a contract, arrange payment, and submit artwork -and it ends there (or so it seems). Instead, take the time to communicate with those you are advertising with and ask how you can be more involved or increase your visibility within their medium. Most advertisers are willing to customize a solution that best fits your marketing objectives and sales goals. Remember that advertising is not a 'one-way-street'. As mentioned before, you must actively promote your involvement within each marketing medium you choose in tandem with the publisher/blogger/producer, etc. It is then easier to make an informed assessment on whether or not a particular marketing medium works (or will work) for you and your business.
8) Marketing your products and/or services is about building your business, your brand, your presence, and to increase sales. Unfortunately, I used to participate in marketing mediums that were based on healing my insecurities and what I thought 'everyone was doing'. I was afraid of 'missing out', so I spent marketing dollars on mediums that I knew for a few years had not been successful or proven successful for me, but continually participated because I thought I would be 'left out'. Looking back, I know better now.
Ultimately, over time, you will be able to measure the success each of the advertising mediums you partake in. Some will be very successful, others may not. Fortunately, you will be able to determine the best method for you and fuel it as much as possible to optimize your results and its return. Often a few, very strong, impactful marketing mediums will allow your business and brand to soar.
Happy Spring!
Connecting The Dots
February 4, 2014
As a child, I loved connecting the dots and then colouring in the completed image. I tried my best to stay within the lines, going from one dot to the other with relative ease. Each dot was numbered, so as long as I could count far enough, there was an intended and definitive path to the final dot and thus to the completed image. However, if I took one wrong turn, the completed image became distorted or gave light to a new interpretation of the image. I remember spending hours on weekends working on these connect the dot books my mother would purchase from me, but as an adult, I realize they have a different significance today.
In business, sometimes it can feel like we are continually connecting the dots. The difference is we don't have any numbers (going from dot to dot) guiding us or a full understanding of the intended path to the completed 'image'. The most difficult can be when you don't know where the dots are supposed to lead you or even worse, when it can be difficult going from dot to dot. It seems that experience, education, and clarity in your craft can make connecting the dots much simpler. We all connect the dots differently, but most of us share a similar 'intended image or outcome': we want to lead lives of fulfillment and personal success.
I have come to appreciate the 20/20 in my journey thus far as a creative entrepreneur. Earlier in my career, it was difficult to understand or appreciate the 'necessity' of the journey and all the experience and knowledge it would bring. It was never my aim to see 'success' overnight, but I definitely had trouble being patient. Sometimes, it felt like things were not moving fast enough, the recognition was not there, or perhaps the growth of the business seemed stagnant. It was frustrating at times because I wanted to show my clients what I could do and demonstrate my real potential as a designer. This meant I would occasionally go the extra mile at the cost of being financially irresponsible.
Connecting the dots is also about understanding who you are as a business owner and designer. This perhaps, is where I see the greatest imbalance personally. I have learned some very hard lessons on why this equilibrium is essential and how easy it is to lose your way even though the 'next dot' is often right in front of you. I connect the dots differently today then I did eleven years ago. The business seems much more complex, there are more moving parts, I have increased responsibilities and am accountable to many more people. Suddenly, I find myself 'managing' and 'operating' more than 'designing'. I have come to appreciate the simplicity and innocence of my business in the early years as something to cherish and take insight from.
A part of connecting the dots is also about understanding the role your business plays in your life and managing that holy grail of work/life balance. It's easy to love what you do when everything is going right, but the true test of your resilience is your ability to overcome when things are not looking bright. The next dot doesn't seem so obvious then. I keep reminding myself that quitting or accepting defeat turns back the clock on success. I thank some of my closest friends (one in particular) and family for reminding me of how grateful and appreciative I should be of my journey thus far. To keep on looking ahead in search of the 'next dot' remembering along the way all the lessons learned, challenges overcome, and triumphs celebrated.
So, here we are, in search of our next 'dot'. Where will it take us? How will life 'connect the dots' for us? When will the dots be complete? What is the intended 'image'? Time will only tell, but in the meantime, it's important that we take command of our own journey so that the dots connect just the way we like.
How will you connect the dots in 2014?
Have a wonderful week everyone!
Photography by WebNeel.com
Design Trends 2014
January 14, 2014
For those of you who know me well, it's no surprise when I mention that my passion for design is also what I like to call my 'sixth sense'. Design is a part of who I am. I look at objects and environments beyond their conventional use. To me, design is a universal language that has a profound effect on our lifestyle. Good design should be accessible to all and remain ever evolving.
I am pleased to share my '2014 Design Trends' report with all of you today. It is my forecast of the many design trends emerging in the weddings of this year. Design trends in weddings are greatly influenced by the worlds of fashion, interior design, and architecture. Event designers across the globe keep their pulse on all design industries to remain at the forefront of their craft, but more importantly, to continually fuel inspiration and creative ideation.
The following are my favourite design trends of 2014:
1) Colour. I am particularly excited about the shift in colour palettes for 2014. Referred to as the 'new neutrals', the muted, smoky tones of pastels evoke energy and lightheartedness. Blush pink, soft yellow, mint green, and cornflower blue remind us of sunny meadows, spring blooms, and summer entertaining. Fresh, airy colour palettes will continue to dominate the weddings of 2014. In great contrast to this, the nostalgia of the 1990′s is evoked through the vibrant tones of green, purple, and deep blue. Primary colours will begin to re-surface during the course of 2014 re-enforcing the dramatic art of colour blocking.
Pantone Colour of the Year: Radiant Orchid 18-3224.
2) Metallics. Burnished brass and antique/distressed metals with weathered patina's will emerge as the metallic of choice for weddings in 2014. Rooted in tradition, the classical styling of metals lend themselves to an old world charm that brings warmth to a wedding design scheme. An object that evokes history, adds character to an event environment and offers much room for personalization.
3) Pattern. Pattern is a dynamic and impactful way to add depth, texture, and overall visual interest to a wedding design scheme. The leading patterns in 2014 take inspiration from the outdoors and style icons from many of the leading design houses across the world. I am particularly drawn to the beautiful pattens found in blue and white Chinese pottery, the French patterns of chinoiserie, the beauty of Mediterranean floral motifs, and the high contrast schemes of geometrics. The foremost trend in pattern for weddings in 2014 leans towards whimsical botanicals/foliage prints; evoking memories of casual garden parties, sleepy summer afternoons, and our love for easy, outdoor entertaining. The use of botanical/foliage prints will be most prevalent in linen and stationery design. Updated trellis patterns, contemporary floral and foliage silhouettes, and topiaries (yes, topiaries!) encompass this trend in natural patterning.
4) Decor. Although several design aesthetics will emerge and evolve over the course of the year, there are four that stand out for their versatility and ability to add character and personality to a wedding design. These include:
a) The use of distressed furnishings. Weather woods and distressed metals evoke a handmade, homespun quality to a wedding design.
b) The use of contemporary design and decor elements that are classically styled. There is an inherent beauty to the contrast and visual tension created by combining contemporary and tradition decor elements, ultimately creating 'transitional' event spaces that appeal to all the senses.
c) The return and popularization of antique furnishings in decorating.
d) The re-interpretation of traditional wedding design schemes and spatial planning. The weddings of 2014 (and moving forward) are viewed as elegant dinner parties and a natural extension to entertaining at home. Head tables are replaced with beautiful harvest tables celebrating family and friends. A central axis floor plan encourages inclusivity of all guests and places great emphasis on elegant entertaining. The 'cocktail' style reception becomes more prevalent.
Customization continues to be the defining design tool in creating a distinctive wedding design scheme that is truly personal to the couple.
5) Floral Design. Floral design continues to centre around floral artistry and floral installations. The theory and principles of floral design are applied to built structures; creating 'form' in an event environment by defining space and establishing focal points. Suspended floral design and floral ceiling treatments create dramatic floral statements. Floral design moves beyond dining table design.
The use of foliage is my favourite design trend of 2014. The natural textures of foliage add interest to a wedding design scheme and allow the form of a composition to stand out creating a sculptural quality that is quite dynamic. The beautiful tints, tones, and shades of foliage enhance the overall design.
6) Design Themes. Design themes continue to be a point of inspiration during the initial stages of the design process. The prevalent design themes of 2014 take inspiration from nautical influences, botanical gardens around the world, resort lifestyle, and modern architecture including the many beautiful hotels around the world.
7) Hot or Not? Hot: Beading, foliage, blue and white pottery, botanical patterns, colour blocking, natural fibres and distressed finishes, pastel colour stories, and laser cutting. Not: Crystals, pearls, stripes and chevron, mason jars, striped straws, and mirrored surfaces.
Hope you enjoyed my '2014 Design Trends' report! Please comment below, what are your favourite design trends of 2014? Do you agree with my forecast? What do you see in wedding design for 2014?
Remember to join us for our twitter party on January 13, 2014 at 7:30pm EST! Follow along with the hashtag #2014DesignTrends. Co-hosts Christopher Confero (@conferotweets) and Cory Christopher (@artdesignliving) will be joining me as we discuss the most prevalent wedding design trends of 2014.
Have a wonderful week!
Paras (@paraskmehta)
Back To Basics
January 6, 2014
2013 has been a roller coaster of a year. Like every year, a 12-month journey of continuing personal discovery and growth, both in business and in life. 2013 was a year of increased awareness of who I was, my resilience, my perceived limitations, my boundaries, my insecurities, my challenges, and my ability to persevere. Most importantly, it was a year of evolution as I began to lay the foundation to self-transformation and truly understanding what I want. Beyond all, 2013 was the year I vowed to 'get real'.
2013 marked the tenth anniversary of PARAS Events. I started when I was twenty years old, had just left school, and like many my age, had a vision for my future.
The business was started from scratch. Our living room, basement, and garage became our inventory storage facility and the dining room was our consultation space. I presented some of my very first weddings from this space and didn't have a portfolio of work yet, so I rendered all of my concepts and used design boards to communicate my ideas. I learned the fundamentals of managing and operating an event services business, the art of the presentation, and honed my design ability and aesthetic. There was an innocence and air of simplicity to our small business that was truly 'grass-roots'.
As I reflect upon those first few years, I begin to distinguish the key differences between my business today and how it was then, but more importantly my approach to the business and my role within it. I am able to develop some key points, including: a) rediscovering the roots of why I am passionate about weddings and design, b) recapturing the innocence of my business and my true purpose as a creative person, c) rekindling the integrity with which I design for my clients and the self fulfillment it provides, and d) balancing the scale of 'designer' and 'business owner'.
I used to operate my business thinking that the 'big breaks' in business were based solely on winning awards, being published in magazines, landing the 'luxury' clients, and fitting in. Turns out, the greatest successes in business are fundamental: a) understanding your business, b) having your pulse on its health, c) establishing your unique signature and a recognizable brand, d) exercising your craft daily, e) nurturing your relationships and partnerships, and f) giving back.
In 2013, I gained some perspective on the next stages of my career. These include education, sharing my experiences, and exploring international opportunities with my business. I wrote about this in great detail in a post entitled 'Lessons Learned' highlighting my 'Strategy for Change' in 2014.
Part of going 'back to basics' is re-investing in yourself. In 2013, I began to focus on my personal health (physical and mental). I returned to the gym, managed a diet of healthy foods, and finally began a journal (all things that I didn't make time for in the past). I enjoyed a renewed sense of clarity, purpose, and fulfillment. I slowly began to identify and differentiate the sources of happiness in my life. By no means had I mastered the art of 'living well', but I tried my best and continued to strive to be the best version of myself that I could be.
I created a vision board to further communicate my personal and business goals for the year.
My new years resolution? Go back to basics, learn from the past, and move ahead into 2014 with a renewed sense of direction for my business, where I want it to be, and understanding my universal role along the way.
Happy New Year everyone! Wishing you immense success in 2014 and beyond.


text:
top gun button up jumpsuit
$ 152.00 $ 106.00
Coolest jumpsuit ever! It features a button up front design, fitted waistline, tapered pant legs, and is made from a soft twill fabric. Style it with platforms and hoop earrings for a killer look!
- Jaclyn is 5'8" and is wearing a size extra small
- fits true to size
- hand wash cold
- cotton
- imported
- measurements for a size small: bust - 39" | waist - 32" | length - 54.5"
WE ONLY OFFER STORE CREDIT FOR RETURNS! Feel free to email us at hello@shopriffraff or DM us with any questions regarding fit, styling, or our return policy in general.


text:
Don't miss our traditional Hanukkah celebration. Dinner served at 5:30 p.m., followed by cookie decorating, singing, and candle-lighting. All members of the community are welcome. Bring your family menorah and cameras! We will have the candles.
RSVP by emailing the office at [email protected] or calling 773.752.2770 by 9 a.m. on Monday, December 11.
Date and Time:
Wednesday, December 13, 2017 - 5:30pm
Display on front page rotator?:
Event Type:


text:
Join Tina Beauparlant for this training designed for parents who are just entering the special education system and wish to educate themselves on how to advocate for their child/children. This webinar will provide parents with an overview of the special education process.
All are welcome to attend any session. Please call Family Services at 773-2014 to RSVP. Transportation and Respite are provided upon request


text:
52 Complete Marian Rivera Wedding Hairstyle Styling Tips is free HD wallpaper. This wallpaper was upload at March 13, 2019 upload by Ashley in Hairstyles Idea.
Description: 52 Complete Marian Rivera Wedding Hairstyle Styling Tips from the above resolutions which is part of the Hairstyles Idea. Download this image for free in HD resolution the choice "download button" below. If you do not find the exact resolution you are looking for, then go for a native or higher resolution.
- Author : Ashley
- Posted : 13 March 19 00:13:23
- Category : Hairstyles Idea
- Tags : marian rivera hairstyle in her wedding
- File Size :
- File Type :
- Resolution : Pixel
- Viewed : 25 Visitor
10 Wedding Day Hair Ideas Inspired By Pinay Celebrity Brides | Cosmo.ph is high definition wallpaper and size this wallpaper is 640 x 640 from cosmo.ph. You can make %krstitle% For your Desktop Background, Tablet, Android or iPhone and another Smartphone device for free.
Download 52 Complete Marian Rivera Wedding Hairstyle Styling Tips with original resolution Click Here!


text:
Soft cover journals, bound with spaces between the signatures, allow for inclusions to be attached to inside pages. Various sizes available. Blank, lined, or themed (Travel, Prayer, Lists). Covers crafted from Linen Covers and St. Armand Cotton Covers, accented with labels, washi tape and decorative papers from around the world.
A compact format to display a few photos of a trip, wedding, baby or special celebration. Inside accordian is of Canson 250g stock, so it's also perfect for drawing, calligraphy, or paintings to display in a compact space. Cover boards covered in decorative papers from around the world. Two sizes: 3.5 x 6.25 inches and 4.75 x 6.75 inches.
Albums handbound in a style that hails back to medieval times. The best backup of your photos is to print them ... and keep them in a beautiful album. Inside pages are Strathmore 80lb Drawing paper; fabric spines; covers are decorative papers from around the world. Page size: 7.75 x 7.75 inches.
Printed books for gift-giving.
Friends: The Rest of Me is an ABC book containing quotes on the merits of friendship. Size: 4.25 x 4.75 inches.
The Twelve Days of Christmas tells the meaning behind the symbols in this centuries-old carol. Size: 6 x 6 inches.
Decorative easels, covered in Japanese and Nepalese papers, with black or gold clips, to display a favourite photo, card, event invitation, wedding table numbers, buffet menu, to do list, or reminder note. Size: 5.5 x 7 inches.
Quote Quilts are 12 x 12 inch framed photograph collages, comprised of 5 themed photos and 4 companion quotes. Choose from existing images of Dogs, Horses, Flowers or Plants; or commission your own Quote Quilt of an event, person or any theme you wish to document.


text:
MELT Your Body Workshop at Pilates on Fifth!!
Pilates on Fifth is proud to be hosting our first MELT Method workshop at our New York Pilates Studio on Monday, March 22 at 11am! The MELT Method was created by Sue Hitzmann, and she and the MELT Method were just featured on LIVE with Regis & Kelly with resounding success. View the clip of the presentation here (www.meltmethod.com). The class will be held in our spacious, sunlit, penthouse Pilates studio from 11am-12:15pm.
Now you can experience this amazing method for yourself! Discover the benefits of MELT Your Body:
- Prevent pain
- Heal injury
- Erase the negative effects of aging
- Improve efficiency and performance
- Reduce stress
Register in advance and save!! Only $15 if you register in advance, $19 on the day of the workshop. Purchase your spot in the workshop online here (link to http://shop.pilatesonfifth.com/category_s/36.htm) email us at firstname.lastname@example.com or call 212-687-8610. Space is limited, so register soon to reserve your spot.
Join advanced MELT instructor Karen Wells from Karen Wells Fitness. Karen teaches at Georgia State University and has taught MELT to the Alvin Ailey Dance Company, the American Dance Festival, and Atlanta's Several Dancers Core, just to name a few! To learn more about MELT, go to www.meltmethod.com or check out www.facebook.com/karewellsfitness.
How to maximize your Pilates personal training and group class revenue during a recession
During this tough economic climate, Pilates instructors find themselves with a smaller client base than they did two, even three years ago. For instance, at our New York studio, Pilates on Fifth, our numbers are still down about 30% from what they were two years ago. Ouch!! But we are not alone. We are fortunate to know Pilates studio, Yoga studio, and even spa owners around the country, and most are experiencing a similar situation.
So then, the big question is "how do we Pilates instructors retain our clients and thus maximize our revenue?"
Let's start with what NOT to do!
1) Take your discouragement with your personal financial situation with you to the studio, the home of your clients, the gym, etc. After all, it's PERSONAL training, and your personality is a large part of what helped you retain the client in the first place! So remember, it's your personality that could lose them as well.
2) Talk about yourself and your personal life. Now is the time to make sure that you are focused entirely on your client or the students in your class in their hour. Phoning it in will not gain you clients or help you retain them either!!
3) Raise prices unnecessarily in your attempt to make up for the decrease in clients. While it might be necessary to raise prices due to increased costs you might be incurring, make sure you know exactly why you are raising the prices, and if you do, make sure that the service you are delivering eclipses the percentage increase tenfold!
That being said, let's talk about the more positive side of what you SHOULD do!!
1) Be completely invested in your clients' progress in results. If you don't invest in them, how can you expect them to invest in you? Take a moment to ask yourself if you've seen them make progress in the past two months. If the answer is no, then think of what you can do to program more effectively.
2) Mutually re-evaluate your clients' goals. Let them know that you want them to reach their goals, whatever they may be. Additionally, by setting goals together, you can motivate your clients to make their appointments and show up both in body and mind to each and every lesson. After all, we don't want our clients phoning it in either! Goal setting also allows you, the instructor, to create benchmarks which you can then use to chart your clients' progress. Once they see their own records of improvement, they're more likely to keep at it.
3) Bring your A++ game to the table every lesson or class, every time. No excuses! We recently had a conversation with our top instructors at Pilates on Fifth, and across the board, we noticed that regardless of teaching style, our best instructors are the ones who are excited about the hour, keep the energy up, and keep their clients moving. Ironically, in doing so (and we all agreed on this!) the hour FLIES by… and that's never a bad thing, right?
4) Make it ENJOYABLE!!! Exercise is one of the BEST forms of stress relief, so keep that in mind!
All in all, we've noticed that our best instructors have not only retained, but GAINED clients, even with this crazy economic climate. Hopefully these tips we've provided will help others gain and retain lots of clients, both for group mat classes and for private lessons!!!
Kimberly & Katherine recently taught the PAI's Advanced Chair Course, Chair Progressions & Challenge to a group of fabulous Pilates instructors here at our Pilates studio in NYC. This was an in-house course for our newer and most promising instructors. For Katherine & Kimberly, it was an absolute blast to teach, and the instructors thoroughly enjoyed it as well. We currently have quite a few Pilates Reformer & Chair classes on the schedule at the studio, and so now participants can anticipate even more exciting variety with new chair exercises being introduced in almost every class.
Pilates Chairs today have all been developed from Joseph Pilates original design of the Wunda Chair. All chairs have a platform, with a pedal to which springs attach to either support body weight or create resistance. Joseph Pilates original chair also double as actual furniture. Click here for more information.
Advanced Chair exercises are a FABULOUS way to increase strength and power training in a Pilates workout. Because chair exercises involve lifting your own body weight and a lot of isometric contractions, your heart rate escalates…. And we know what that means… more calories burned!!! A skilled instructor can pace the workout appropriately, infusing chair exercises throughout to keep the heart rate at an elevated level throughout the workout.
Anyone interested in Pilates for upper body strength will LOVE the chair, as there are great exercises for the triceps, pecs, deltoids and shoulder girdle stabilizers. The one arm push up, hand on chair is an excellent triceps exercise (and pec!), and the Twist does wonders for the deltoids and the shoulder girdle stabilizers.
We always get questions about the best abdominal exercises and best core strengthening exercises… Enter the Chair! Exercises like Tendon Stretch, Single Leg Extension and Handstand are AMAZING for both abdominal strength and core strength. More importantly, they work your body in different planes of motion, with forces coming from a different plane than usual, giving your neuromuscular system an extra workout as well!
If you have a chair & don't yet know the advanced exercises for the Pilates chair, visit www.ultimatepilatesworkouts.com. From the shopping cart, you can download full Pilates Chair Workouts or download Pilates Teacher Training Videos on the Pilates Chair. For a monthly subscription, you can enjoy anytime, anywhere online Pilates workouts on the chair. In the not too distant future, we'll be focusing our energies on a "Build a Workout" feature, with blocks of exercises on all Pilates equipment, including the Pilates chair, that can be mixed and matched to create your own unique workout.
And don't forget that for free Pilates workouts online simply sign up at www.ultimatepilateworkouts.com as a Basic Member and the Pilates videos will stream directly from your computer!
One of our viewers recently wrote in, asking us if the principles of muscle confusion can be applied to Pilates. Programs like P90X have soared in popularity due to the emphasis on Muscle Confusion, and their practitioners have seen amazing results. "Muscle Confusion", most basically, is derived from two training principles: the Specificity of Training Principle and the Overload Principle. Both of these principles can be applied to Pilates so that you will continue to reap all the benefits, including flat abs fast, lean legs and a lifted butt, and a stronger core.
The Specificity of Training Principle states that the body will adapt to the specific demand that is placed on it. If you're a Pilates beginner, it may take a while for your body to adapt to the new exercises you've given it, which is a good thing! You won't hit an exercise plateau as quickly as someone who is already fit. However, once you're able to do the Pilates exercises correctly in your class, while you will maintain your current level of fitness if you keep doing your Pilates workout in the same way, in the same order, etc., you will not necessarily get stronger and stronger. This is where the Overload Principle comes into play.
The Overload Principle states that to continually adapt, the body must be placed under a stress that exceeds the body's current capabilities. In other words, with Pilates exercises, one must continually work at his/her own edge as opposed to work in the range that's comfortable. (That's why your instructor is continually cueing you to pull in your abs more, to work more deeply, etc.) This is also why certain exercises should always feel hard! For example, once your body adapts to "The Hundreds" with your legs bent, you can then straighten the legs, and then proceed to lower them from there…. get it? And with an exercise like "The Teaser", the possibilities abound! Most Pilates exercises can be made either more difficult or more intense relatively simply.
Upon researching more about Muscle Confusion online, we found two interesting articles, one for and one against the idea of muscle confusion. Both have useful tips you can use (or not use!) in your teaching of Pilates. One article (http://www.articlesbase.com/muscle-building-articles/how-the-muscle-confusion-principle-can-maximize-your-workouts-911684.html) LOVES the idea of muscle confusion, stating that even if your goal is NOT to build muscle, (and most Pilates enthusiasts are avoiding muscle bulk) you will achieve your goals much faster applying the muscle confusion principles. On the other hand, the following article (http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Biggest-Muscle-Building-Fallacy-in-Bodybuilding&id=553415) scoffs at the over-emphasis on muscle confusion, pointing out (very convincingly) that if you do not allow your body time to give your brain valuable feedback, then you can't really accomplish anything. We agree! You need to know where you are to really know where you want to go. Be patient!
So, what's the final answer? YES! You absolutely can apply the principles of muscle confusion to Pilates workouts as well, of course dependent upon the type of Pilates that you are doing. If you are going to a studio where the lesson is exactly the same every time, then, as you pointed out in your email, your body will adapt and eventually plateau to the extent that you stop seeing results. However, if you are continually varying your Pilates workouts and routines, focusing on different muscle groups AND increasing the difficulty level appropriately, then you have effectively introduced the principle of muscle confusion and thus made it impossible for your body to adapt! But remember, whether doing Pilates online or in a studio, you don't want to change things up too quickly!! Give your body enough time to give you valuable feedback.
For those of you who are utilizing our website for Pilates online, www.ultimatepilatesworkouts.com, we recommend balancing your workouts between total body workouts and targeted workouts, such that are found in the Strong, Svelte & Savvy Series. If you were to do one of the longer total body workouts on one day, and one of the targeted workouts for arms, legs, butt, back, etc., on alternate days, and then throw in some cardio 2-3 times a week, your muscles would be confused, but balanced and happy as well! Keep the same Pilates training routine for 2-3 weeks, then increase the difficulty.
Incorporating props is another way to keep your muscles COMPLETELY confused! The stability ball, foam roller and BOSU(R) will introduce new challenges with both core stability and strength, while the Pilates Ring and Stretch Band can be used to intensify the workload of certain muscle groups and simulate the Pilates equipment, respectively. It's all about how you put everything together!!
The bottom line is, even if you find a Pilates video or Pilates DVD that you love, don't do the same one all the time!! Our site has over 25 free mat workouts, so we encourage people to try different ones so that different muscle groups are continually being worked and challenged, and new exercises are continually being introduced. Our new Pilates iphone app (debuting soon!!) will have workout plans included, so follow one of those for great success!
Katherine and Kimberly Corp on Ella Speakes!
Kimberly and Katherine Corp were guests on the Ella Speakes show on Monday, January 11, 2009. They spoke about Pilates on Fifth and what is was like to own a small business in 2009, complete with the challenges and opportunities for growth and change that 2009 did provide. You can find more information about her radio show, which is broadcast in the Oklahoma City area, at this link: http://radiotime.com/program/p_124073/Ella_Speakes.aspx .
Ella is one of the most gracious hosts we've worked with, and she generously informed her listeners of not only our studio, Pilates on Fifth, and our Pilates video podcast, but also our Ultimate Pilates Workouts website. We were able to speak in detail about everything our Pilates workouts site has to offer, and especially how to do Pilates correctly as well as Pilates for beginners. We highlighted Pilates exercise routines such as the Pilates Morning Low Back Care Workout, My First Pilates Workout for Pilates beginners, as well as the Pilates Pink Ribbon workout, for survivors of breast cancer. We stressed that the sort function on the site allows users to sort not only by duration, but also by LEVEL. If you're doing Pilates at home, you can select the level that's completely right for you!
Finally, we encouraged Ella's listeners to utilize our podcasts so that they know if they're doing an exercise correctly. From our podcasts page, look on the right side of the page for the list of exercises that have been covered. From there, just look for the name of the exercise that you'd like to review! It's really that simple.
Ella was also kind enough to encourage her listeners to send in their testimonials, and even send us "before" pictures so that once you've embarked on your Pilates journey, you can follow it up with a fantabulous "after" picture with a story of your Pilates experience! Feel free to friend us on facebook or send us an email at email@example.com. We look forward to hearing from you.
Many, many thanks to Ella Speakes for having us on her fabulous show!
The "other" Glutes!
In our last blog, we discussed the merits, both aesthetic and anatomical, of a well developed gluteus maximus (click here to read!). But since the "glutes" do get lopped together often in cueing, today's blog will discuss their differences and similarities.
First of all, the gluteus maximus is the most superficial of the three and gives the buttocks is lifted, curvy shape (when well toned, of course.) Underneath the gluteus maximus lies the gluteus medius and underneath that lies the gluteus minimus. Their sizes are in the name: large, medium and small respectively. If the gluteus maximus gives overall shape to the buttocks, then the gluteus medius and minimus can be said to give shape to the hip.
The gluteus maximus extends and laterally rotates the femur at the hip, and is responsible for bringing the torso upright from a stooped position when standing. The gluteus medius and minimus ABduct the femur, but primarily stabilize the body when standing on one leg. In fact, an often used "weak link" test to determine a weak gluteus medius is to see if the subject can balance on one leg. If the gluteus medius isn't firing properly, the subject can not stabilize the body on one leg at all. Additionally, both the gluteus medius and minimus assist in medially rotating the femur. However, once the hip is flexed to ninety degrees, the action of the gluteus medius shifts and it aids in laterally rotating the femur.
In Pilates mat work, the gluteus medius and minimus get their moments in the sun during the Side Leg Lift series of exercises. This includes Side Kicks, straight forward Side Lying Abduction of the femur, Side Lying Scissors, Side Lying Bicycle, Banana, and the side lying exercises with the exercise band, Side Lying Clam and Book. However, this pair of muscles is always stabilizing in any standing exercise on the chair or cadillac and in footwork on the reformer, to name a few.
Because the Tensor Fascia Latae also abducts the hip, targeting the gluteus medius and encouraging it to fire first (as it should) can be challenging. ActivCore and the Redcord system offer fabulous exercises for strengthening the gluteus medius safely and effectively. Because of the unique off-weighting system, ActicCore provides direct, acheivable gluteus medius conditioning exercises that can help even the most body UN-aware person isolate the gluteus medius and strengthen it. A strong gluteus medius improves Ground Reaction Force which helps distribute forces evenly through the body during actions such as the tennis serve (click here to read more) and the baseball swing.
More on the gluteus medius and Ground Reaction Force next time!
Tired of your Exercise Routine?? TRY SOMETHING NEW!!!!
At our Pilates Studio, we hear people complain often about being sick and tired of their workout regime. There is actually a really easy remedy to this problem: quit your typical workout regime for a week or two, and try new things!! With the beautiful weather comes the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, so why not take a walk, ride a bike, etc? Better yet, why not try something you've never tried before?
Trying new things not only refreshes your mind, but also gives your overworked muscles a break, while introducing movement and stimuli to often dormant muscles. Moving the body in planes of motion different than what you typically do can reap lots of benefits, including balancing out muscle groups as well as exposing you to a weakness that you may have not known that you had. With that knowledge, you'll have something new to target when you return to your regular fitness routine.
You will be amazed with the outcome if you give your mind and body a necessary break. You'll come back to your usual Pilates routine refreshed, revived, and invigorated!!


text:
When you're used to five-star dining, discreet service, the finest shopping and exquisite artwork, you want those markers of high style at your fingertips. The Inn on Fifth delivers all that effortlessly, while providing the ideal location in the heart of uber-fashionable Fifth Avenue, the Bond Street of ritzy Naples. Simon Veness Susan Veness Location9 / 10 For socialites, it […]Read more ›
Articles By: admin
Downtown Hotels in Jackson Mississippi
Jackson City is the capital of Mississippi. It is likewise the state's most crowded city with an expected populace of 557,385 as of year 2000. Actually, it is currently considered as the US' 88th biggest metropolitan area. Jackson City was named after Andrew Jackson, a previous US president. The city's trademark is Jackson, Mississippi City with Soul. This can be […]Read more ›
Hotels in Fresno California Reviewed, Including America's Best and Laquinta Inns and Suites
Lodgings in Fresno California, Inspected: Inns in Fresno, California: Fresno offers you the opportunity to investigate Yosemite National Park, Fresno Craftsmanship Historical center and Club One. So whatever you have as a top priority there is an incredible possibility that here in Fresno you can locate those fascinating activities. Americas Best Worth Motel Water Tree is situated at 4141 North […]Read more ›
Hotel Decameron Salinitas – An All-Inclusive Fishing Resort in El Salvador, Central America
Los Cobanos, El Salvador, is situated in Sonsonate one of the nation's 14 areas and home to the biggest coral reef framework in the America's Pacific locale. You can't locate a bigger coral reef framework anyplace along the American pacific coast line from Cabo San Lucas to Tierra del Fuego. This pacific 'pearl' is for some, an angling reference when […]Read more ›
Trujillo Honduras Hotel – Why Chose This Option Over A Punta Cana Hotel?
Well most importantly, I feel that various sorts of settlement and various kinds of areas suit various sorts of individuals. The most significant thing is to have the most ideal excursion! This expressed, I think a great deal of people have not considered excursions outside of the comprehensive class or the numerous advantages they can offer. This is the reason […]Read more ›
How Close Are Hotels to Carlsbad Caverns?
When you're taking a gander at Carlsbad, NM motels or lodgings in Carlsbad, NM, you may think about how close the inns are to Carlsbad Caverns. In case you're similar to the vast majority, the Caverns are your explanation behind visiting this territory of New Mexico in any case. In all actuality the size of the National Park and its […]Read more ›


text:
Add a rustic flair to their home with this double blank cover plate that is ideal for covering unused switches and outlets. Their styles range from traditional to modern and will accent any home with a distinct decorative appeal.FeaturesCollection - RusticMaterial - Stamped SteelType - Double Blank Switch PlateFinish - Satin NickelDimension - 4-1/2 L x 4-1/2 W in.
We will find the best price for you.


text:
Smart Powerstrip – Green Powerstrips and Surge protectors
Posted by Norman F, April 9th, 2012
Powerstrips and Surge protectors have evolved into the green era. They help combat phantom power draw by Power Bricks aka Wall Warts, and other electronic devices. Lawrence Berkley National Labs estimates that 10% of residential power use is wasted toward this as most homes have 40 products constantly drawing phantom power or vampire power even when the device is off. Save over a $100 a year by fixing this problem.
The new 3rd generation Smart Powerstrip helps you save power if you use a desktop or laptop computer for about $35. It also works great for TVs. Green Powerstrips have finally started to appear. You can Measure Energy Usage with a Kill a Watt Energy meter to quantify the power use and savings.
Filed under: Conservation, Easy, Eco Friendly, Effort, Electronics, Green, Home, Money, Reduce | Tags: Green Powerstrips, Powerstrip, Smart Powerstrip, Surge protectors, vampire power |


text:
Interview: WWE Champion Bray Wyatt Wants His WrestleMania Moment
He is 'The Eater of Worlds' and WWE's most peculiar figure known for his haunting promos, as well as being ferocious inside the ring. With the WWE championship title around his waist and WrestleMania 33 fast approaching, Bray Wyatt is ready for war.
After a dysfunctional seven months with Randy Orton that featured an unusual alliance and psychological warfare before ultimately severing ties after Orton burned down the Wyatt Family compound, Wyatt is set to defend his championship against his former partner and No. 1 contender "The Viper" Randy Orton at WrestleMania. The master-servant feud could not be creepier as there have been no shortage of thrills and shrills.
Neither man is a stranger to WrestleMania but it is Wyatt that is driven to satisfy that desire for a "WrestleMania moment" and attain his first win at the marquee PPV after waiting years for his shot. With that in mind, "The New Face of Fear" opened up about who Bray Wyatt actually is, Sister Abigail's manifestation, his most memorable moments and what to anticipate at WrestleMania.
Winning the WWE Championship
CraveOnline: After paying your dues for years, did you ever wonder if your championship moment would ever come and how did it feel to finally grab the WWE Championship at Elimination Chamber?
Bray Wyatt: To me, it was never a question of if but a question of when. I knew what I had to offer this company and the world itself. I knew it would come at some point. As for the feeling, it's almost indescribable. Not many people get to say that they're the champion of the world [laughs]. It's a very wild feeling and something I'll never forget and I'll always cherish.
Randy Orton and WrestleMania
CraveOnline: You face off against Randy Orton at WrestleMania for the championship after a long seven-month buildup. Ultimately what can we expect and what do you want out of this match?
Bray Wyatt: A violent war. If you look at everyone else on this card you will not see as anything as detailed and realistic as what me and Randy has. It's two people that captured the world together and he destroyed everything. He turned his back on me and stabbed me in the back for what? What you will get out of us is violence and something different than you have ever seen before.
CraveOnline: The last three WrestleManias you have worked programs with John Cena, Undertaker and The Rock. How did that prepare you for this WrestleMania?
Bray Wyatt: The first time you go out and perform at WrestleMania, it's a very challenging thing. It's the showcase of immortals and you don't know what to expect and every WrestleMania is different. But from my experiences, I've fought every top dog there is to fight around and at WrestleMania I'm ready to capture my moment. This is my time. This is the era of Wyatt and I'm ready to take my place on the stand at the top of "The Showcase of the Immortals.'
"I don't know what is real and what isn't."
CraveOnline: Do you think Sister Abigail will ever "manifest" into physical form?
Bray Wyatt: [Laughs] That's a challenging question and there's not a simple answer to it. I get a little confused. I don't know what is real and what isn't. That's just the nature of me. Can I say never? No, I cannot. Can I say for certain? No, I cannot. But I see her and feel her and that's as real as it needs to be.
CraveOnline: What is the process of your promos? How do you prepare for a promo? You're a wordsmith on the microphone so we wondered if you create all of your material or does someone write for you?
Bray Wyatt: Unfortunately, I am not that skilled when it comes to memorizing something that's off of paper. I have to sit alone in a room and be alone with my own thoughts. It always starts with an idea and once the idea grows, I have a concept of what I want to say and once I go out there and start feeling the energy, that concept grows and becomes whatever it is.
Top Moments: The Undertaker and The Shield
CraveOnline: What has been some of your favorite moments thus far in your WWE career? What stands out?
Bray Wyatt: A few things stick out in my mind obviously besides winning the WWE Championship. The first time I fought Undertaker. I remember watching him walk down and having this chill. You know that feeling when you're almost getting into a car accident? It felt like that continuously for 10 minutes. That was a moment.
The first Shield match we did [Wyatt Family vs. The Shield], the reception was just awesome from the fans and the backstory we have with them coming up in our careers. That was a very real moment. It was six guys that just wanted to go out there and hurt each other and create something wonderful in the process.
The real Bray Wyatt
CraveOnline: Who is Bray Wyatt?
Bray Wyatt: It's more of a question of 'what.' I don't like to think of myself as just a person. I don't think I am. I think I existed before and I think I'll exist again after I die here so I don't exactly know what I am. I don't think there is ever going to be an answer. I just know that I'm not like you.
"Creating magic"
CraveOnline: What do you need from this WrestleMania moment for your legacy?
Bray Wyatt: The idea behind all of it is to create magic and go out there and do everything I can to impress and obviously walking out still champion. I'm dedicating this match to Blackjack Mulligan and Dusty Rhodes. I'm willing to die for it. I don't know if Randy [Orton] is willing to do the same.
Joshua Caudill is a writer for CraveOnline, a hockey fanatic, a pro wrestling connoisseur and an expert on all things Patrick Swayze. You can follow him on Twitter @JoshuaCaudill85 or "like" CraveOnline Sports on Facebook.
Photos courtesy of WWE


text:
Big Inspiration Comes in Small Sizes
Image source: today.com
In a world where we lay down in ovens to turn our bods orange, stick needles in our faces to look like ducks, and plump up our lips to look like a Kardashian, it can be hard to remember what true beauty is. We're constantly shaming ourselves because we're not a size zero with DDs and for what? A little bit of attention on IG? There's more to life, people, and we need to stop hating our imperfections and be more like Kentucky's inspirational nugget, Audrey Nethery.
Audrey is a seven year old battling Diamond Blackfan Anemia using dancing as her sword and singing as a shield.
This lil munchkin is stronger than I will ever be and her attitude on life is taking the world by storm. Audrey sings and dances to her 1,200,000+ Facebook fans to raise awareness for her disease and reminds us that no matter what life throws at us, to never stop dancing.
Check out her story below, feel all warm and fuzzy inside and pass along the inspiration. Just think of how wonderful our world would be if we replaced all the Kardashians with Audreys? Think about it, then do something about it before we all turn into orange duckfaces, a scary thought that is not far from reality…
Posted by Christina B.


text:
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
For months, I have been telling my clients about HB 3061, now widely known as "the Illinois sealing bill". In essence, HB 3061 expands the pool of offenses eligible for sealing. Just last week, Governor Pat Quinn signed HB 3061, which immediately went into effect. Under this new law, several non-violent felonies have been added to the list of offenses for which records may sealed. The offenses include retail theft, forgery, possession of burglary tools and possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance.
If your criminal background is hindering your job prospects and life opportunities, call Xpunge Chicago today for a free case review. Illinois' new sealing law may enable your chances of getting back on your feet and contributing to your community.
With the passage of this new law, one offense will no longer become a life-long barrier. Call Xpunge Chicago today! (847) 920-4540. XpungeChicago.com
Matt Fakhoury
Previous Posts
How Do You Know if You're Eligible for Expungement?
What Types of Juvenile Records Can Be Expunged?
Can Employers Hold Your Criminal Record Against You?
Expunging Juvenile Records in Illinois: Where to Get Copies (and Why You Need Them)
FAQ On Juvenile Expungement in Illinois
Can You Expunge a Juvenile Record in Chicago?
Expungement in Illinois in 2019: What You Need to Know
Can You Expunge Convictions in Illinois?
List of Crimes You Can Seal in Illinois
Can You Seal an Animal Cruelty Conviction in Illinois?
Blog Categories
Criminal Record Clearing
In the News
Blog Links
Archived Posts
10.0Matt Fakhoury
Matt FakhouryClients' ChoiceAward 2018
Matt FakhouryReviewsout of 95 reviews
Latest Blog Entries
© 2019 Xpunge Chicago 10024 Skokie Blvd., Suite 210, Skokie, IL 60077 | Phone: 847-920-4540 1600 Golf Road, Suite 1200, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008 | Phone: 847-920-4540 1136 S. Delano Court West, Suite B201, Chicago, IL 60605 | Phone: 847-920-4540Expungement/Sealing | Serving | Testimonials | Background Checks | Payment | Attorney Profiles
Attorney Website Design byAmicus Creative
Law Offices of
M. Fakhoury, LLC
Rolling Meadows
10024 Skokie Blvd., Suite 210, Skokie, IL 60077 | Phone: 847-920-4540
1600 Golf Road, Suite 1200, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008
1136 S. Delano Court West, Suite B201, Chicago, IL 60605
Disclaimer | Law Firm Website Design by Zola Creative


text:
My soul is smiling
This weekend was perfectly cozy and wonderful. On Saturday Erik played in his last soccer game. After having to take three weeks off for his broken toe, he was back in it to win it and was able to end the season strong!
"I want to give a big congratulations to the La Sierra U10 Red Devils! Even though they were moved up three entire divisions to division 2 after mid season (and I believe the only team in CVYSL to do so) they finished on top with an undefeated record of 8-0-2!! I am so proud of how the boys played and handled themselves on and off the field. I want to thank Melissa and James for helping coach and thank all the parents for helping with setup, take down, snacks, and everything else that made this team run smoothly. I'm looking forward to some indoor and future seasons with this amazing group of boys, GO Red Devils!!!"
We are so grateful to Eric, Melissa and James for their fantastic coaching. We all had a great time this season!
On Sunday I decided to get a jump on decorating. I had the energy and time and Bing Crosby whispered to me, "Go ahead, play White Christmas, let's do this!" So I turned on the Christmas music and got to it! I had a great time putting lights on every available surface and elfing up the place. Oh yeah, I even put lights in the bathrooms. Decorating brings me so much joy. I felt like a kid and I loved every minute.
After decorating the house I looked in the kitchen and saw a spot that needed sparkle. I said, "Pedar, we have to go to Emigh Hardware right now." And because he is my Pedar, he said, "OK, let's go!" We went and he got a few things but I picked out this small wreath and ball of light. He then wired them together and helped me hang it. I am incredibly loved and he loves me right back! He is always doing things to make me happy. I am so thankful.
Erik was at our neighbors most of the day and when he came home he said, "Wow! Can I put the ornaments on now?" You bet!
While Erik was putting ornaments on the tree, Curly walked up to him and asked for a kiss. It was such a sweet moment. I think even Curly was feeling the Christmas magic wrapping its arms around our home.
Last night we enjoyed some cousin and sister time at Bridget's house. I loved seeing the kids play and enjoyed catching up with Bridget and Margery. We came home and enjoyed our beautiful tree and snuggly doggy.
I am so grateful for family, friends, our health, our jobs, our home, love, music, playtime, joy, hugs, kisses and food. I have so much to be thankful for. My heart is full.


text:
Heading to Melbourne
I'm heading to Melbourne next Wednesday evening for a weekend trip. It was a last minute trip, due to some last minute circumstances.
Anyways, my family will be coming in for this trip, so all's good for some family time bonding.
The last few days have been raining, so the weather in Sydney has been cold. Last week I caught the flu, so that was not a good thing.
I believe it'd be even colder in Melbourne, which has incessant change of weather throughout the day.
On a separate note, the Administrator in the school commented that she actually notices my moods. Even when I do not speak. LOL...
Anyways, I hope to meet up with some of mates in melbourne. So whoever's there, pls PM me, or whichever is better!
People I want to meet:
1) Caroline Tan - haven't met since high school!
How many years is that??
2) Kevin Liew, Matt, whoever's there! - haven't met you guys in almost three years?
3) Madeline Yee- if its not too far away for baby and Bob, ok?
4) Elena Yee- come out, woman!
Sent from my Nokia phone.


text:
On 25 August, Mrs B contacted Amber after receiving a letter of 23 August, giving her just 9 days' notice of an appointment to attend on 4 September at 9.00 am for her Work Capability Assessment (WCA) for Employment Support Allowance (ESA).
However, Mrs B's two children were not due to return to school until 5 and 6 September. Furthermore, Mrs B's son with ASD was struggling with the concept of joining secondary school for the first time on 6 September. So the appointment on 4 September was causing considerable stress, as not attending would mean being sanctioned and having the ESA payments stopped, but attending meant major issues for the children and Mrs B, who had no alternative child care provision.
Amber's office contacted the Department for Work and Pensions to ask for a later appointment in September on 25 August, 29 August, and 31 August, and finally on 1 September, received the news that the appointment had helpfully been rearranged to 26 September. Mrs B said "I do appreciate your help and support very much, and know how committed you are to helping us in Hastings. Yes I was phoned this morning. Such a relief. Thank you so much for your help."
Uploaded: September 2017


text:
I am. I am a mother of a wonderful daughter. Grandmother of 3 beautiful grandsons: Jake 18, Chris 13 and Asher 2 years old – the "uh oh" baby. I am the Director of Operations at American Funeral Financial. I am a writer and contributing author of a newly published book Second Chances and I am co-creator of Second Chances. workshops and seminars. That is how I would define myself to you. That is my external world – a world comfortable for me to share with you – a safe place to reside.
However, I am not writing this blog to experience safety. I came to challenge my fear to set myself free and to stand in my truth. As a result, I am going to take you on a journey – a journey to my inner world – a world most do not see yet a world rich with experience
Before I begin, I would like you to just reflect back to when you were a child how you depended on your parents or grandparents or other caretakers to love you, accept you, nurture you, protect you. Home is the safe place to be. Or is it?
For me home was unsafe. I was sexually abused by my father and physically and emotionally abused by my parents. The experiences created a shattered soul The shattering created instability within me and instability affected my ability to comfortably interact with adults and peers, my ability to speak – my interaction with men where I replicated abuse through much of my adult life. The biggest issue for me though is a deep seeded fear that affected everything I do and still affects me somewhat today. Instead of challenging the fears I created illusions so I could accommodate the fear and not have to remember why the fears were there. My parents said, "If you ever tell, we will die. You don't want us to die do you?" A deep seeded fear was installed with those simple words.
I was a victim and lived a victim mentality. I was imprisoned by the choices of my parents and I maintained that prison by my choices in life. Ladies and Gentlemen, prison is no fun!
Almost a year ago I entered into a process to seek my freedom. I went back and dealt with my parents, both now deceased. In process, I was able to forgive them and recognized the wonderful gifts – the lessons/values I received from the experience. They taught me the value of worthiness by treating me with disdain. They taught me the value of love through their hatred of me. They taught me the value of beauty by treating me as ugly. They taught me the value of kindness and compassion by treating me cruelly. They taught me the value of joy by their bitterness and anger. They taught me the value of acceptance by their rejection. They taught me the value of peace through their violence. They taught me the value of sanctity by their rape of my body and soul. They taught me the value of wisdom through their ignorance. They taught me the value of integrity through their lies and illusions. They taught me the value of courage through their control and fear mongering. I am in gratitude, a deep honest gratitude to them, for being my teachers for a higher calling. I looked for deliverance from my past and came to understand that I needed to accept the truth of my past as it was the fertilizer of my soul.
I understand that I am not defined by my past. I choose to release the prisons of victimization, and make choices daily that now create the life I want.
My name is Mary Auda and I Am a divine expression of God's love. I am facing my fears. I am living each moment today. I am creating my future. And, I look forward to knowing the – I AM of each of you.