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Finding Community in Your Entrepreneurial Journey
For the past several years, I've felt really alone. I wouldn't typically admit it, and if you saw my calendar you wouldn't believe it, but I do. There have been moments in my life where I intentionally drowned myself in plans every day after work just to feel better about myself. I'd spend hours staring at my calendar to ensure every thirty minutes was filled. I'd talk poorly about the people who had their go-to group of friends, but only because I was jealous. I would count my friends on my fingers just to remind myself that I wasn't really alone, even though it felt like it.
It's been this way since high school. My sophomore year I decided that I didn't want to party anymore, but the "Christian crew" were already best friends. It was at this point that I decided to separate myself from everyone. Truth is, I didn't decide, I just didn't fit into either group anymore. College didn't feel much different.
I started Delight my sophomore year of college in this place of loneliness, still fighting to feel like I belonged. When Delight began to grow on campus, I unknowingly pushed my insecurities to the wayside. It was the first time I felt like I was pursing a passion of mine, and it was the perfect distraction from the honest condition of my heart. For the next five years, Delight began to grow to hundreds of college campus across the country. It has become my dream career, the most exciting adventure, but also an easy hiding place to for my hurt.
A few months ago I walked through one of the toughest moments in Delight. I was carrying a lot of weight and for the first time ever I felt like I couldn't carry it alone anymore. I texted two friends to see if they could come pray over me one random Wednesday night. We sat there as I basically poured my whole life history on them and they showered me with encouraging words.
It was the first time in a long time that I realized I still am struggling with the same things I struggled with eight years ago. Somewhere in the midst of starting a really exciting career I dropped the thought that I felt isolated and alone, but in reality I was still overly anxious about my weekends, still counting my friends, and filling my calendar to the brim.
I think this is a trap that a lot of entrepreneurs can fall into. You pour so much into your career and can easily abandon the rejection or hurt you felt before it all began. You allow Satan to deceive the external growth of your dream from the internal growth in your heart. You unknowingly assume that the hurt or heartbreak you are walking through will just fall to the wayside once you start a new adventure, job, or project.
I want to encourage you, wherever you are at in the point of your career, to notice the insecurities and brokenness in your heart that you are trying to avoid. Notice the thoughts that enter your mind when you lay your head on your pillow at night. Notice the hurt in your life that you have abandoned and the walls it has been building around you. Break these things down, go to the Lord with them, and don't walk away from the pain.
Your career won't actually distract you, and your walls won't actually protect you, so pursue the healing before you even begin. Before you start distracting yourself with your career and drowning yourself in work that never seems to end, allow others into the journey with you.
I know I'm not the first to tell you, but you cannot do it alone. The prayer from your friends, the dinner dates, the weekend adventures, the late night chats, and wine nights will pour more joy and passion into your career then you can ever imagine. Instead of being anxious about community, pursue community. Pray for it, look for it, make it a priority in your life.


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"Milkman's" Workbenches Now in Stock
We have completed another run of the milkman's workbenches that are now available in our store. The benches come complete with vice screws, garter, two wooden dogs, mounting brackets, and jaw liner. One left handed bench is also available. Additional information about them can be found here. Total bench cost is $495 plus shipping.
One Response to "Milkman's" Workbenches Now in Stock
I built three of these a while back for myself and family members and made them ambidextrous. I attached angle iron for clamping them down but made sure I centered the screws on the edge of the bench. This allows you to remove the screws, flip the angle 180 degrees, and reattach it. Flip the bench over clamp it down and it's set up for a lefty. I hope they will become heirlooms, and as such, I don't know how many times they may be passed down to left or right handed users.

subset: commoncrawl


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Unwanted ink can be removed with this procedure, which uses lasers to fade ink pigments
Customer Reviews
All reviews are from people who have redeemed deals with this merchant.
What You'll Get
Choose from Three Options
- €29 for one session of laser tattoo removal (59% off)
- €49 for two sessions of laser tattoo removal (65% off)
- €89 for three sessions of laser tattoo removal (58% off)
What does laser tattoo removal involve?
Lasers are used to fade unwanted tattoos, breaking down colours by reacting with ink pigments. Additional sessions may be needed depending on the size and colour of the tattoo in question, with bright colours and UV inks requiring more attention than darker ones.
What area can be treated?
A single tattoo or part of a tattoo covering a maximum area of 2" x 2". A consultation will be carried out before the treatment starts to ensure suitability for clients.
How can people prepare?
After each session, aftercare includes applying an ice compress to the skin, and avoiding the sun and tanning beds.
The Fine Print
Expires 90 days after purchase. Limit 3 per person, may buy 3 additional as gifts. Valid for option purchased only. Booking required, please call 086 2339804; provide Groupon code. Present printed Groupon on arrival. 24-hour cancellation policy. Must be 16 or older. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult. Consultation included. Full refund if found unsuitable. Not suitable for pregnant women. Must leave 21 days between sessions. Three sessions to be completed within 4 months. Patients are encouraged to seek independent medical advice before embarking on invasive surgery. Verified using our merchant's website on 6 May 2016.
About The House of Nails
Established in May 2014, The House of Nails specialises in nails, make-up, permanent make-up and tattoo removal. Run by Aga Deryng and Iesa Mortell, who've worked together for eight years, they also offers beauty courses in make-up, spray tanning, make-up artistry and nails.


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Exporting high-speed rail technology is a key goal of China's Belt and Road Initiative, but their first project in Indonesia has been hit with delays.
The Taiwan Gazette translates and publishes original reporting from Taiwan, Hong Kong and China. Our goal with the platform is simple: We want original reporting from the Sinosphere to have a wider impact on global civil society.


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Whether you use the Altus XT for work, creation of digital media, or everyday tasks, the Altus XT delivers the smart and seamless multitasking performance required to move between multiple applications quickly.
Performance: The power of Altus XT's performance comes from the latest 3rd Generation Intel® Core™ Processor family, providing incredible performance and stunning visuals.
Stunning Imagery: The Altus XT's large and bright 17.3" display can be further boosted with an NVIDIA® discrete graphics processor, supercharging performance for your HD videos and photos, immersive 3D movies, and taking high-res graphics to the next level.
Security & Control: The Altus XT also features Intel® vPro™ Technology (dependent on configuration), which provides cost savings and control for businesses while improving security and remote manageability.
Room to Grow: The Altus XT offers a variety of expansion slots and ports (including three USB 3.0 ports (and one USB 2.0 port), an e-SATA/USB 3.0 combo port, and ExpressCard 54), multiple connectivity options, and enhanced usability.
Intel® 3rd Generation Core™ i3/i5/i7 Processors
Intel® QM77 Mobile Chipset (Intel® vPro™ Support)
4x 204-pin SO-DIMM Sockets Supporting Dual Channel DDR3 SDRAM, 1600 MHz SO-DIMMs Maximum Memory Expansion of 32 GB
17.3" FHD (16:9) LCD 1920x1080 with Anti-Glare, LED Backlight
nVIDIA® Graphics, featuring Optimus Technology & GPU Switchable between iGPU and dGPU
nVIDIA GeForce GTX 675M w/ 2GB VRAM
nVIDIA GeForce GTX 675MX w/ 4GB VRAM
nVIDIA Quadro K3000M w/ 2GB VRAM
SATA 9.5mm 2.5" HDD
Solid State Drive Support, Multi HDD Support, mSATA SSD Support
Primary HDD/SSD, Second HDD/SSD (media) mSATA SSD Slot
Optical Drive
Built-in SATA Super-Multi Drive (Optional Blu-Ray Module Available)
Integrated Intel 82975V 10/100/1000 Gigabyte LAN
Optional Intel Centrino Ultimate-N 6300
Optional Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6235 2x2 AGN + Bluetooth
Integrated High Definition Audio Subsystem with Two Built-In 2W Speakers and One 3W Subwoofer Speaker
Expansion Slots
One Mini Card Slot for WLAN Combo Half-size Mini Card with PCIe and USB Interface
One ExpressCard™ 54 Card Slot
One Mini Card Slot for mSATA SSD
I/O Ports
3x USB 3.0, 1x USB 2.0, 1x eSATA/USB 3.0 Combo, 1x Smart Card Reader, 1x DisplayPort, 1x Mini
DisplayPort, 1x Mic-In, 1x Headphone Jack, 1x RJ-45, 1x DC-in, 1x S/PDIF, 1x Line-In
Keyboard & Pointing Device
Windows 103 Key Full Size Keyboard
Touchpad Pointing Device with Multi-Gesture & Scrolling
Security Features
Intel vPRO Technology & Intel Identity Protection Technology
Fingerprint Reader
Kensington Lock Slot
Integrated 720P Webcam
Primary 8-cell Li-Ion Smart Battery
AC Adapter
Output: 19V DC
Input: 100-240V AC, 50/60Hz, Universal, 11.57A, Auto-Sensing
Dimensions (W x D x H)
& Weight
16.2" x 10.9" x 1.6" ~ 1.78" / 412mm x 276mm x 41.8mm ~ 45.4mm
7.7 lbs / 3.5 kg
Operating: 5 to 35 C (41 to 95 F) @ 50% Relative Humidity
Storage: -20 to 60 C (-4 to 140 F) @ 30% Relative Humidity
EMI/RFI: FCC ClassB
Safety: CB, cTUVus, TUV
EPA: EPEAT Silver
Other: CE, VCCI, C-TICK, NIST SP800-147, TAA
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Business and Leadership Networking Event at York University will be co-hosted alongside 3 other professional organizations at York University, HRSA (Human Resources), APAA (Accounting) and FSA (Finance). 10 professionals will be present at the event to share their personal knowledge on choosing a career path, networking effectively, developing leadership skills, job hunting strategies.
Back to All Events
Earlier Event: January 24Coworking Open House
Later Event: January 24Employment Law: Employee or Contractor?


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Melissa Bougdanos
Melissa is a second-generation immigrant – her father is originally from Greece and her mother is from Finland. Melissa was raised in both United States and Europe - her unique upbringing and diverse background led her to work in immigrant law. Melissa has always had an interest in legal policy and hopes to expand on her legal ambitions in the future.
Prior to joining J&K Law, she worked with humanitarian organizations affiliated with the United Nations and was involved in a mentorship program while attending college. Melissa received her BA from Binghamton University in New York where she majored in psychology. Melissa is fluent in Finnish.


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[Re] Sustaining Old North Saint Louis
Kyle C. Vansice & Brandon Fettes Iowa State University
Ulrike Passe & Kristin Nelson
Iowa State University
This project is a contemporary interpretation of a historic context; it does a good job of honoring the urban character and it creates a new place in the city. The design moves are simple, yet the building does not appear overly simple from the street. The energy metrics and inclusion of a psychrometric chart are convincing and clearly defined, especially the smart energy-use graphic. The operable sunshades add performative value and animate the exterior of the façade.
This proposal centers itself in a theory of sustainability not only concerned with usage and metrics, but also with the processes from which architecture is born, and will live through - construction, inhabitation, maintenance, and deconstruction. It is a holistic approach which sees sustainability as not merely applied, but embodied within every element of design, construction, and use.
The building is approximately 12,000 square feet. It includes a grocery store and café at the first floor, and apartment units on the second and third.
The building responds directly to an urban condition within Old North St. Louis which is recovering from a half-century of deindustrialization and decline. Yet a rhythm remains of which our proposal seeks to interpret and respect. In its most reduced form, it is a box which is partitioned into five zones in order to allow for flexibility and adaptability in programming and use. These zones are also environmental, relying on internal heat gains and external passive solar gains to balance comfort with active systems.
The structure of cross-laminated timber allows for integration of systems through a prefabricated construction process in a manner which de-industrializes the site during construction and thus helps achieve a carbon-neutral and net-zero energy balance.
10 Sustainability Measures
1. Design & Innovation
A building which adapts, which is used intensely, is one which changes over time, and thus survives beautifully under a variety of conditions and pressures applied. It is one whose appeal is long lasting.
Our proposal is for a mixed-use building in the heart of Old North St. Louis – a once vibrant, public centered community which has diminished significantly under the weight of de-industrialization, suburbanization, and the ensuing decay of the inner-city. It is our goal to create a work of architecture that acknowledges this community's vibrant past, learns from it, and seeks to replicate its scale and rhythm in a contemporary manner. The proposal seeks to achieve both a near-net-zero energy balance as well as a carbon neutral footprint.
A careful analysis of the neighborhood found that a standard module – both in width and height – existed and was repeated along the commercial corridor in which the project is aligned upon. As the neighborhood has redeveloped and re-invented itself, it has done so within this existing infrastructure – existing buildings which are commonly over a century old. This module, along with important qualities such an open plan and durable construction assemblies, has allowed for this redevelopment as it has proved widely accommodative to a multitude of layouts and programs. Much can be learned from a place which was developed and built in a time before the prolific use of fossil fuels and the transition of the city to the current neo-liberal condition, and this project attempts to leverage these lessons – along with technological innovation and intelligent design thinking – to create a work which is inherently and holistically sustainable.
2. Regional/Community Design
Over the past three decades, Old North St. Louis as a community has been left largely vacant, but there is currently a strong revitalization effort taking place which seeks to restore the neighborhood to a past vibrancy. Our goal has been to learn from this past in a way that acknowledges the congruence between activity and density in the historic design of storefronts and row houses, and seeks to continue their latent scale and rhythm as a means of promoting a notion of community sustainability. The project does not seek to compete with what exists and what might become, but rather it desires to form a relationship with the built and the natural that fosters a healthier, more publicly oriented community.
As part of the revitalization work of the community development authority, a community garden has been operating within our site directly adjacent to the building as proposed. The building orientation, program, and fenestration all react in such a way as to facilitate a mutually beneficial relationship between it and the existing garden.
Adaptive comfort strategies, operable elements, bicycle storage, recycling rooms, and other elements encourage the occupants to become active users of a passive building, and are part of broader community sustainability strategies which educate citizens on the potentials for living sustainably and the nature of urban habitat. The current walkscore is 66.
3. Land Use & Site Ecology
The project sits directly adjacent to an existing community garden, and within the runoff watershed of the Mississippi River; it also exists within an urban habitat characterized by hardscapes and poor stormwater management practices. Through the use of a green roof, stormwater and greywater recycling, drip irrigation, and solar hot water, the project seeks to minimize water requirements, treat all water on-site, and eliminate runoff off-site.
The building's first level consists of a grocery store and a café. This program was chosen – in part – because of the existing presence of food production on-site, and the desire to create a synergy between the building and this resource. This mutually beneficial relationship will help to satisfy the current need for access to fresh, healthy food as the neighborhood currently exists within a designated food desert. Beyond satisfying this need, it will also facilitate the operation of community supported agriculture (CSA) on-site.
4. Bioclimatic Design
The neighborhood grid is rotated twenty-one degrees west of cardinal north. This, along with the restrictions of current and future developments on solar access, and the contextual need to prioritize the street façade, makes an optimal solar orientation impossible. To overcome this challenge, the building is partitioned into multiple zones. The southern half of the building at the commercial level has a higher glazing ratio and in-turn, takes advantages of passive solar heat gains during heating months. The northern half – containing higher internal heat loads – has a lower glazing ratio and relies upon higher insulation values to minimize exchange through the envelope, thus relying on these internal loads for a portion of the overall heating during heating months.
The building is also divided into four distinct vertical modules with fully-passively conditioned circulation spaces inserted between. This results in each apartment unit achieving a somewhat autonomous orientation whereas the north and south walls are thermally massive, yet allow in daylighting at a clerestory, while the east and west facades are completely glazed to maximize access to daylight and views. Shading at the west façade is optimized for solar orientation and access, and thus reflects natural light deep into the space, allows for passive solar gains in heating months, but prevents direct solar radiation during cooling months.
St. Louis lies within ASHRAE Zone 4 and is thus classified as a mixed-humid climate. In this region, cooling loads are much greater than heating loads, and humidity – without desiccants – makes incorporating passive cooling strategies difficult. Optimization for orientation, zoning, and fenestration help the building to achieve approximately forty percent of its heating requirements through passive solar and internal gains. In regularly occupied spaces, the acceptable humidity ratio was set at .012, (.04) above the comfort limit suggested by ASHRAE. The partitioning of programs and zones isolates and groups circulation and service space, allowing for non-regularly occupied spaces to rely upon passive ventilation completely for cooling as higher humidity levels are only a concern under longer durations of occupation.
5. Light & Air
The modulated plan affords each apartment access to natural daylight throughout the entirety of the unit. The commercial spaces at the first level feature a clerestory which provides the appropriate façade height for the desired daylight autonomy to be achieved. Each unit has 81% daylight autonomy. The modular plan also allows users large open views on both ends of the building, whereas 100% of the apartment units have views to the outdoors.
Due to a low wind velocity in cooling months, stack ventilation was employed to serve both the residential and commercial programs. This is facilitated by three light monitors enclosing circulation spaces. The glazed stacks protrude above the roof to serve as a thermal chimney, and maximize air buoyancy. Being as these neutral spaces are unconditioned, the ventilation mechanisms are automated. The openings within the building units are operated manually, but have the potential for automation as well. 100% of residential units, and 77% of commercial units are within 15 feet of an operable window.
Cross-ventilation is also incorporated in all units allowing air to pass uniformly through the entirety of the space.
6. Water Cycle
A green roof is utilized as a means of collecting rainwater and reducing the heat island effect due to reduced hardscape on-site. Water collected at the green roof is stored at the garden level where it is used in drip irrigation to the adjacent community garden. Over 90% of the site is softscape – when including the green roof – and thus 100% of stormwater can be detained and treated on-site.
Greywater from showers, sinks, and other sources will be held on-site, treated, and recycled through these same systems. Solar hot water will be utilized to heat water for flow fixtures which will reduce electrical loads. Portions of detained water are utilized in a geothermal exchange that provides radiant conditioning to the building units, furthering passive building comfort, and reducing energy consumption.
7. Energy Flows & Energy Future
Geothermal heat exchange allows water to be circulated through a system of radiant chilled ceiling panels in the summer, and radiant floor heating in the winter. This system is approximately 20% more efficient than conventional forced air as losses are much lower, and thermal exchange is thermodynamically optimized (warm air rises from the floor, cool air falls from the ceiling).
Photovoltaics are applied at the roof and their angle is optimized for higher sun angles as cooling loads are much larger than heating, and thus at peak times, the building energy sources will be renewable. The panels can be rotated however, and will allow the building to take advantage of net metering at off-peak hours.
In addition to 7000 square feet of photovoltaics at the roof, 1000 square feet of glazed collectors provide solar hot water to building users. With all passive elements and renewable resources combined, the building only consumes 12.4 kBTUs/ft2 on average.
8. Materials & Construction
The primary structural system is cross-laminated timber (CLT). This is a material with a similar stiffness to concrete, yet is one-fifth the unit weight. It also has the potential to sequester up to one-half of its weight in carbon, leading to the potential of a carbon neutral structural system. Furthermore, it a pre-manufactured, pre-fabricated product allowing for greater control in the transfer of design to construction. This in-turn, somewhat de-industrializes the jobsite, thus decreasing the intensity of construction processes and their associated carbon emissions whilst minimizing the impact to the surrounding community and ecosystem. In this case, the CLT is left exposed at the interior thus eliminating the need for additional finishes and resulting in a simple, dematerialized aesthetic.
This design for assembly approach is advantageous from a life-cycle analysis perspective as it addresses not only the initial concerns related to embodied energy during construction, but also its potential to sequester carbon over its use, and its disassembly at the end of its life. The primary structural elements – and their associated connections – have been designed in such a way as to make their re-use compatible in other projects in the future. When quantifying these various considerations, the project achieves an overall carbon footprint near zero.
9. Long Life, Loose Fit
In visiting the site, we were astonished at the ability of the existing structures – which had been rehabilitated – to be reprogrammed for almost any use with very little retrofitting. Recognizing the existing scale, and the openness both in plan and in the street façade led us to develop a modulated design both in plan and elevation. This affords the building a certain fitness and flexibility. Scale, an openness to the public, and the importance of construction details dominated the development of this community for a century before certain broader demographic and more global forces led to its demise. Our project is a reinterpretation of this past as way of reinvigorating a latent vitality.
10. Collective Wisdom & Feedback Loops
For our team, a tension existed in the term sustainability. In one way, a sustainable building is one that acknowledges its context and adapts to the needs of its occupants. It is functional, and requires the occupants to commit to an interface with the architecture. It is a healthy, exciting, and invigorating place which is hospitable to a diverse array of people, uses, and programs.
Yet in another way, a sustainable building is one that is perfectly optimized in its resistance to environmental pressures. In this case, systems should be automated, and little user interaction can be allowed as it would disrupt a computationally derived efficiency seemingly acting in harmony with the inputs and parameters by which it was designed.
These competing definitions employ the classic poetic versus pragmatic debate, and it has been our goal to fully engage this project in that debate. This tension must be worked out in such a way that a building responds both to the needs of its users and the pressures of the environment, and we have learned that to do so, the processes of design must be thought through as thoroughly as the design itself.
© 2019 Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture. All rights reserved.
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Intentional Aromatherapy
Did you know we have the ability to create your own unique blend of essential oils for your Aromatherapy Massage? Using Body Bliss Intentional Aromatherapy essential oils and their Aromatherapy App, we invite guests to engage in the experience of creating their signature blend.
Add Aromatherpay to any of your massage choice! We also have Rich Shea Body Butter, Hand Cream, Foot and Leg balm bases that you can create a blend for.
Aromatherapy has been around in some form for thousands of years! There is more to it than simply using essential oils; aromatherapy can be quite complex, involving carrier oils, absolutes, herbal distillates and vaporizer oils. An important element of aromatherapy is synergy, which is the combination of numerous essential oils that can actually create a more powerful effect than the oils would have on their own. This is why blending essential oils is such an important area of study for alternative healers, since the range of possibilities is almost endless.
Some benefits of Aromatherapy:
– reduce anxiety
– ease depression
– boost energy levels
– strengthen the immune system
– reduce pain
Stress Relief: Perhaps the most widespread and popular use of aromatherapy is for stress relief. The aromatic compounds from many different essential oils are known as relaxants and can help to soothe your mind and eliminate anxiety. Some of the best essential oils for stress relief are lemon oil, lavender, bergamot, peppermint, vetiver, and ylang ylang essential oils. Certain studies have also shown that lemon oil can improve mood and reduce outbursts of anger.
Antidepressant Capacity: Second to stress relief, aromatherapy is very commonly used to eliminate feelings of depression. In terms of the best essential oils to use for reducing depression, most specialists suggest peppermint, chamomile, lavender, and jasmine.
Memory: One of the most frightening and widespread diseases affecting older people is memory loss and the inability to form short term memories. Aromatherapy has often been turned to as an alternative or supplemental treatment for dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Studies have also shown the efficacy of aromatherapy on younger patients in terms of boosting their memory capacity for a certain amount of time after the treatment. This refreshing burst for the brain can be useful in all walks of life, no matter what age you are! Sage oil is the most commonly recommended oil for this sort of memory-enhancing effect.
Boost Energy Levels: We can all use more energy to get through the hectic daily tasks of modern life. While diet and exercise can also help, many people turn to aromatherapy to put a bit more pep in their step. Many essential oils are known to increase circulation, raise energy levels, and generally stimulate the body and mind, without the dangerous side effects of other stimulating substances. The best essential oils for giving yourself an energy boost include black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, clove, jasmine, tea tree, rosemary, and sage.
Immune System: It is far better to prevent than treat, as most medical professionals say, and aromatherapy can give you a serious boost to your immune system if used properly. The anti-microbial effects, as well as the anti-fungal and antibacterial effects can protect you from any number of illnesses and infections that could damage your system. This area of aromatherapy is very popular and widely studied. Some of the most effective essential oils that boost your immune system include oregano, frankincense, lemon, peppermint, cinnamon, and eucalyptus essential oils.
Pain Relief: Aromatherapy can relieve dozens of different types of pain, why not take advantage of it? Pain relief is one of the most useful applications of aromatherapy. The top essential oils, both for professional and personal use, include lavender, chamomile, clary sage, juniper, eucalyptus, rosemary, and peppermint essential oils.
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I have been a die-hard fan of tangle teezer since I first found out about it a few years ago. As someone who suffers from extremely tangled locks, I haven't used anything but that since then. I discovered Wetbrush a few months ago and have been trialling it.
Wetbrush have a range of brushes which all can be used for a different result. The round brush for a bouncy blow-dry minus the tugging or the flat brush for more problematic hair. The intelliflex technology makes brushing your hair super easy and is said to reduce breakage by 45%.
I really liked the brushes that I used. I do have to say, I won't be switching from my tangle teezer anytime soon but I still really liked them. I didn't feel a lot of tugging which is a rarity for me and it was relatively easy to dtangle my hair.
What do you think of Wetbrush? Have you tried it?
T x


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FOR NOW anyway, there's a lot to be thankful for based on what's happening, and not happening, in the Middle East.
Unless all hell's broken loose, a fragile truce is holding between Israel and Hamas, ending eight days of rocket attacks and airstrikes that left 162 Palestinian civilians (including more than 40 children) and Hamas sympathizers dead in Gaza, and five Israelis killed within the state of Israel.
Under the terms of the agreement, both Israel and Hamas have agreed to "stop all hostilities ... in the land, sea and air including incursions and targeting of individuals" and urges the Palestinian factions to end "rocket attacks and all attacks along the border."
Israel agrees to end its targeted killings of Hamas leadership. If things have remained quiet for 24 hours — several hours ago now — Israel is to consider lifting border controls, easing the movements of everyday Palestinians.
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An end to fighting that victimizes civilians is obviously cause for relief; what's even more promising is how this tenuous cease-fire is being orchestrated, and by whom, and what it says about the evolving power equation in the region.
Now like before like always, the central players have been present and accounted for in the negotiations: U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton; Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. But the current cease-fire was in part brokered by Mohammed Morsi, president of Egypt, who's pledged to use his friendly relationship with Hamas to help keep the peace.
"Egypt's new government is assuming the responsibility and leadership that has long made this country a cornerstone of regional stability and peace," Clinton said in Cairo on Wednesday.
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MORSI HAS stepped up to the plate in a way that certainly, in the short term, burnishes his bona fides as a world leader. This is a big baby step for at least the hope of an enduring peace; the Egyptian president has committed his nation to a status of change agent, and returns Egypt to its historical role as regional acrobat: a reliable ally of the United States and a comparatively sturdy third party between Israel and its antagonists. Shades of the days of Anwar Sadat.
Morsi appears to have handled the first big regional crisis since he took office in late June with a pragmatism that answers both the immediate need for quiet and the longer-term need for a real negotiation process, in pursuit of a long-term solution.
Early reaction has been positive. "The Gaza truce was the first big test for Morsi, and it is doing well. He led the negotiations in a balanced manner," El-Sayed Amin Shalabi, head of the Egyptian Council for Foreign Affairs, told Agence France-Presse.
Hassan Nafaa, an Egyptian columnist and political analyst, said Morsi "cleverly used relations with Hamas to help achieve a primary objective of Egypt, which is a cessation of violence."
◊ ◊ ◊
While Clinton built up her frequent-flier miles in the region — sprinting from Israel to Ramallah to Cairo — President Obama performed shuttle diplomacy by phone, talking with Morsi and Netanyahu, and pledging to the Israeli leader more funds for Israel's Iron Dome missile-defense system.
Overnight news reports from Gaza showed Palestinians and Hamas celebrating the deal; Aymon Moyheldin of NBC News said sermons at mosques in Gaza were spinning the agreement as a victory for Hamas and the Palestinians — which is to be expected.
It's a given that the outcome of events — a psychological victory, if not a military one — would be portrayed in Gaza as proof of Hamas' toughness and its leverage in the region, their $800 rockets hailed as a match for the might of the Israeli military, whose use of the Iron Dome system over the eight days of conflict cost between $25 million and $30 million, Reuters reported.
In an address, Netanyahu took the high road, saying that "at the present time, the right thing for the state of Israel is to exhaust the possibility of reaching a long-term cease-fire."
But Mustafa Kamel al-Sayyed of the University of Cairo told AFP that Netanyahu was under heavy pressure from the United States to sign on to the agreement. "One wondered about Netanyahu's reaction to a cease-fire that appeared as a failure because it has not met Israeli military objectives," he said.
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BARRING THE cease-fire blowing up, the next clash between Israel and the Palestinians is set to take place in a better place for conflict resolution: At the United Nations.
Haaretz reports that, during her talks in Israel, Clinton warned Netanyahu against extreme reaction to an expected Palestinian request for recognition of the Palestinian Authority as a non-member state.
The Palestinians intend to ask the UN General Assembly to vote on upgrading the status of the Palestinian Authority to non-member status on the symbolic date of Nov. 29.
That's the anniversary of the UN vote on accepting the Partition Plan in 1947, a vote that led to the creation of the Jewish state the following year.
Nov. 29 — next Thursday — is also the UN's Day of International Solidarity with the Palestinian People.
Image credits: Palestinian father in Gaza: Screengrab from Al Jazeera video. Morsi: AFP. President Obama on Air Force One: Pete Souza/The White House. Palestinian boy and Hamas fighter: AP/Adel Hana.


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Venturi Vineyard can be found in Northern California, in Mendocino Country. Here you'll find 70-year-old, dry farmed, head-trained Carignane vines. They are farmed organically and have their roots deep in sandstone, shale, and quartz. Half the grapes are destemmed while the other half is whole-cluster pressed to decrease the skin to juice ratio. The wine spent six days on the skins before being pressed off into large old puncheons and flex tank. 13% ABV
(550 Cases Produced) 793003
Wabi Sabi is a quest for beautiful imperfection. Shaunt and Diego really admire the idiosyncrasies of the nine vineyards used to compile this blend. Vine age ranges from 15-70. Different techniques are used depending on grape variety. In some cases, whole clusters were used and in other cases the grapes were destemmed. As with all their wines, each lot was wild fermented. The wine was neither fined nor filtered before bottling. 13% ABV
This vineyard was planted in 1948 by the Poor Family; they are still farming this plot generations later. The site is located in Hopland on Sho Ka Wah (Pomo) tribal land. The vines are farmed organically and go without irrigation. Wholeclusters were fermented in open top tank for several weeks before being pressed off into neutral barrel. After a twenty-two month of élevage, the wine was bottled.
Vetunri Vineyard is located just north of Ukiah in Mendocino. The seventy-year-old Zinfandel vines are deeply rooted in the Pinole Series gravelly loam made from sandstone, shale, and quartz. You'll find baseball sized hunks of rock deposited by alluvial flows throughout the site. The beautiful organic bush-vines thrive despite being dry farmed since their planting. Whole-clusters were crushed by foot before fermentation kicked off in open-top vats. During the steady, warm fermentation, light punch-downs were done once a day. One delestage was performed to increase extraction. The wine was aged in neutral flex tank and neutral barrique for 19 months before being racked and bottled. 25ppm of Sulphur was added after malolactic conversion, and an additional 10ppm were added before bottling. 13.5% ABV
Coplan Vineyard is located in Carneros. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are planted on wright loam soils. The cool temperatures in addition to the cool soils results in ripening with lower sugar levels. They took over farming this vineyard two years ago and have converted it to organics and even time their spraying with the moon cycles. The grapes were destemmed and then fermented in open-top vats. Gentle punch-downs once per day for two weeks led to modest extraction. The wine was then aged in neutral Bordeaux barrels for two years. A small amount of sulphur was added once per year to keep the wine precise and fresh. The final product was bottled by gravity. 12.5% ABV
(322 Cases Produced) 793001
Venturi Vineyard can be found in Northern California, in Mendocino Country. Here you'll find 70-year-old, dry farmed, head-trained Carignane vines. They are farmed organically and have their roots deep in sandstone, shale, and quartz. The grape clusters were pressed and the juice was allowed to settle overnight. Fermentation took place in a combination of neutral barrel and flex-tanks. It then spent 14 months on the lees before being bottled without fining nor filtration. 12.5% ABV
(250 Cases Produced) 793004
Located on an active volcano north of Sacremento, Dobson Vineyard falls into the Manton Valley AVA. At 850m above sea level, these 40-year-old, own rooted Chardonnay vines can be found in gravelly loam. They have recently taken over farming of this vineyard, converting to organics and, to a lesser extent, permaculture. Whole clusters were pressed and the resulting juice was fermented in flex-tank and neutral oak. No sulphur was added until after malolactic conversion. 10ppm of sulphur was also added before bottling which was done via gravity to avoid pumping. 13% ABV
(125 Cases Produced) 793002


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DWF to make up to 37 redundancies in Liverpool
DWF is set to make up to 37 redundancies, including both lawyers and support staff. The redundancy consultation is focussed exclusively on the firm's fraud and motor teams in the
DWF is set to make up to 37 redundancies, including both lawyers and support staff. The redundancy consultation is focussed exclusively on the firm's fraud and motor teams in the
HowardKennedyFsi has announced a new redundancy round, with plans to lay off seven lawyers. The firm is the result of an August 2012 merger between Howard Kennedy and
If we take GDP and divide it by a nation's population headcount, we have a useful measure with which to assess incomes. A new UK survey has used this method to demonstrate income inequality in India, revealing that
HWL Ebsworth is set to launch its sixth domestic office, opening in Perth on 1 July. The firm has hired the entire team from Perth general corporate boutiqueAustralian law firm
Norton Rose Fulbright is reportedly considering a defection toA large number of lawyers from the Dubai office of recently merged firm
Berwin Leighton Paisner has announced a redundancy plan, with around 100 jobs at risk, including 58 lawyer roles. Around 17 of the lawyer positions at risk areUK firm
Maclay Murray & Spens has announced around 30 layoffs, with unofficial reports indicating that around 20 lawyers and 10 secretaries set to lose their jobs. The
Berwin Leighton Paisner is set to make over 100 staff redundant, with 58 lawyers, 44 secretaries and an unspecified number of business support staff at risk as the
Duncan Gibbins has entered a redundancy consultation. The firm has not confirmed how many staff and lawyers are at risk of losingRollOnFriday reports that personal injury firm
Patton Boggs has laid off 30 lawyers and 35 staffers. The firm responded to a drop in profits by making redundancies in its New York, New Jersey, WashingtonWashington DC law firm
Ex-partners from failed law firm Dewey & LeBoeuf are contesting a proposed $165,000 bonus for finance chief Frank Canellas. The outrage behind the challenge is clear, with the attorneys asking, in court documents
Good new in the legal services job market, with a new survey reporting that almost a third of law firms and corporations plan to hire full-time legal professionals in the fourth quarter. The survey, conducted by
Shakespeares is set to make a wave redundancies of support staff and lawyers as it prepares to merge with Harvey Ingram. A total of 54 employees will lose their jobs.UK law firm
Pinsent Masons has bolstered its Shanghai practice with the hire of 13 lawyers and 12 support staff from Salans. The hires follow the June hire
A new report from Citigroup shows that growth in demand is being outstripped by expenses in the US legal services sector. Revenue grew by 2.7 per cent in the first half of 2012, but the growth was driven more by enhanced


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Contributed by Jackye Penney
The Houston Chronicle
August 1942
The author of this article was Mydell Compton Kilgore. She was the daughter of Felix and Bruce Compton, and the wife of C.P. Kilgore of Dew. Mydell, her parents and her grandmother, Mrs. Evans went on the trip to Yellowstone along with the AH and Mary White Family when she was a child (1923.)
(Caption under photo)
One cane pole plus one can of bait plus one creek equals fish to "Aunt Mary" White--at 75, she's the champ.
Dew, Texas, Aug. 16. --Paradise for rugged "Aunt Mary" White of Dew consists simply of this: One old cane pole, plenty of crawfish bait, just any creek, and someone to take fishing.
For over half a century the 75 year-old woman has fished at every opportunity. She has worked hard and has reared nine children, yet she has always found time to cast a hook in some small stream.
Never using expensive rods and reels, Mrs. White has often answered inquiries of "Havin' any luck?" with a string of 50 fish a day. With worms, or crawfish bait, she has caught many several-pound drums, perch, pike and trout in streams where any catch was a prize.
Aunt Mary's family bows to her ability as a "fisherwoman." Her nine children, 30 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren may try their hands, but she can outfish them all.
Mrs. White has caught thousands of fish in her lifetime, she estimates, just for the fun of it. "If they were all stacked in one pile," she said, "they would fill the largest room of any house." Then she laughed, "but my folks tell me not to brag."
Love of fishing came from her father, Aunt Mary said. He fished so much that his wife complained. After early successes, she chose her outdoor interest as a lifetime hobby.
Fazed By Nothing.
People who fish with Aunt Mary may expect anything, her family points out. Until a few years ago, she led many frightened fishermen over logs across deep creeks. Stories are told of her crossing streams by walking on logs already, knee-deep under water.
Once she kept on fishing during a storm in Arkansas. "Wind swept through the pine trees," the white-haired woman related, "limbs were falling thick all around, but I went home with a string of fish."
Aunt Mary always fishes until dark regardless of wind, rain and mosquitoes. The mosquitoes she simply blows away, she said. She demonstrated with a quick puff from each side of her mouth.
The only time Aunt Mary ever strayed from her "plain fishing" was 18 years ago this summer on a trip to Yellowstone Park. In Wyoming she borrowed a tourist's rod and reel and caught nothing but sorry fish, she recalled. She had rather have her own cane pole, a hook and a lead sinker with not even a cork.
Catch 'Em Any Time.
Mrs. White disagrees with her uncle, Jess Cabaniss, who used to say, "wind from the east, fish bite the least; wind from the south, blow bait from the mouth; wind from the west, fish bite the best; wind from the north, no bites at all." She can catch 'em any time, she said.
She does not believe in spitting on her hook for luch. "And holding your mouth right has nothing to do with it," she asserted.
"I go down to the creek," Aunt Mary declared, "with the belief that God will give me the strength and knowledge to catch fish, and he does." Her favorite part of the Bible is the story of Christ guiding the fisherman.
Still fishing at every chance, Mrs. White has found that the way to remain active is just the determination to keep going.
Always Worked Hard.
She has kept going for these 75 years. She not only has reared a large family, but also has cooked syrup, tied oats and pulled fodder. Aunt Mary has built rail fences and hauled freight. She has picked cotton and even ginned it.
Sixteen years of married life in Arkansas saw Aunt Mary's best fishing and her hardest work. It was then that she and a negro woman ginned cotton. They drove two teams of horses to levers that furnished the gin power. When her feet became so tired from continuous walking that she could hardly move on, her job had just begun. It was then time to put the cotton into the press and finally see two bales produced in a day.
Aunt Mary would enjoy telling you all about her life. But the sun is shining. The air is still. She had rather take you fishing.


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Breaking the cycle of too much worrying
We all worry occasionally, and sometimes with good reason. Problems start when worrying gets out of hand.
Anxiety and worry are closely linked. Anxiety can manifest itself in different forms and excessive worrying is one of them. Ironically, this worrying leads to more anxiety and people end up in a vicious cycle.
Feelings, even unpleasant ones, serve a purpose. Anxiety, panic, and worry are all part of the way humans experience fear. Each involves the anticipation of danger or threat. Anxiety is a normal, emotional alarm response to the anticipation of danger, and worry stimulates us to find a solution to a problem.
People worry to a different degree, but in general, if our quality of life is compromised by constant worrying and we seem to be on alert all the time, then it's time to do something about it.
Worriers will often report symptoms of difficulty going to sleep or staying asleep because of an over-active mind, muscle tension, poor concentration, stomach cramps and irritability. Each of these alone can impact quality of life, but worriers tend to experience more than one and this can make life really difficult.
How do we stop the cycle? The long-term solution is to understand the underlying factors of your anxiety so that you can reduce stress.
In the short-term, there are strategies that can help address the symptoms. Practice relaxation exercises daily. Breathing exercises are particularly helpful. This will help stop your racing mind and reduce muscle tension. It is important to practice as often as possible.
If the main problem is worrying in the night, keeping a notepad by the bed and writing down your worries may help. You can then rationally think through solutions during the day without losing valuable sleep time.
Anna Dallavalle is a counsellor working with individuals and couples and has a private practice in Morpeth. For information visit www.steppingstonesne.co.uk


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In lieu of an article this week, Pastor Pam wanted to share the following poem by Jesse Williams.
What makes a Christmas? Is it place or time,
A Christmas card, a holly wreath, a rhyme?
Is it a gift tied up with ribbons gay,
Does it mean Christmas when you "Merry Christmas" say?
The bells may softly chime "O Holy Night!"
The Christmas tree may glow with candle light,
The table may be spread with festive cheer
And yet no Christmas spirit hover near.
No, Christmas is from all these things apart,
It needs but a warm and open heart;
And sorrow, pain, and fear are swept away
When Christmas comes into the heart to stay:
For Christmas is but faith, and trust, and love,
A lifting of the eyes to Him above—
The Christ who came to earth to set men free,
God's gift of love supreme to you and me.
And as the angel choir their anthems sing,
The story of God's love to man they bring,
The promise of abiding peace impart—
'Tis Christmas when Christ dwells within the heart.


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Administrative Court holds that regulations limiting recoverable costs to legal aid rates are unlawful
R (On the Application of the Law Society) v The Lord Chancellor [2010] EWHC 1406 (Admin)
The Administrative Court (Elias LJ and Keith J) yesterday held that the new regulations limiting the costs recoverable by successful defendants in criminal cases were unlawful.
Under s16 of the Prosecution of Offences Act 1985 a court may award a successful defendant or appellant his costs out of central funds (a defendant's costs order). S20 of the 1985 Act provides that the Lord Chancellor may make regulations setting down scales and rates for any costs payable out of central funds pursuant to any court order.
The Lord Chancellor exercised this power for the first time when he implemented the Costs in Criminal Cases (General) (Amendment) Regulations 2009. Those Regulations, which came into force on 31.10.09, provided that the costs to be awarded under a defendant's costs order should be limited to legal aid rates. Payments under the 2009 Regulations inevitably fell short, sometimes well short, of the costs actually incurred.
The Court found that the new scheme was unlawful. The obligation under s16(6) of the 1985 Act is to provide a sum of money which is reasonably sufficient to compensate the successful defendant. In making the 2009 Regulations the Lord Chancellor had sought to achieve objectives inconsistent with the purpose for which he was entitled to make regulations under s20 of the 1985 Act.
Elias LJ held, at paragraph 56, that:
"The new regulations involve a decisive departure from past principles. They jettison the notion that a defendant ought not to have to pay towards the cost of defending himself against what might in some cases be wholly false accusations, provided he incurs no greater expenditure than is reasonable and proper to secure his defence. Any change in that principle is one of some constitutional moment. It means that a defendant falsely accused by the state will have to pay from his own pocket to establish his innocence. Whatever the merits of that principle, I would be surprised if Parliament had intended that it could properly be achieved by sub-delegated legislation which is not even the subject of Parliamentary scrutiny."
It is to be assumed that defendant's costs orders will fall to be assessed under the old scheme unless and until a new scheme is introduced.
Members of our Criminal Regulatory & Environmental Law team are happy to advise on any matters arising out of this judgment.
For the full judgment please click here.


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Cheerleading encompasses many partner stunts, tumbling, pyramids and jumps that require great athleticism. Someone who has not observed a cheerleading squad in many years might not be aware of the impressive athletic feats today's cheerleaders perform. Flexibility is required for many jumps and poses. Physical power is required for a long tumbling run or a sequence of flips and tricks that cheerleaders perform. Strength is required for cheerleaders who act as bases for flying tricks, when one, two or three different individuals throw another cheerleader, called a flyer, into the air and hold them in the air while they perform poses and tricks. Cheerleading also requires tremendous stamina. In the sideline version of the sport, where cheerleaders boost crowd morale and lead cheers for an audience watching another sport, cheerleaders actually perform longer than the teams they cheer on. They cheer during the game, during halftime and during breaks. Cheerleaders use weight training, cardiovascular training and stretching, much like any other athletes, to achieve the athleticism required for the sport.
Cheerleading was first created as a sideline sport to cheer sport teams on and get crowds cheering for a team. However, the sport has evolved to include various competitions between existing cheer squads. There are also teams of cheerleaders that only perform the sport for competition and are not attached to a school or team of any other sport. The highest level of competition in the sport is the World Cheerleading Championship, which includes teams from around the world. In the United States, the group STUNT has been created to encompass the athletics of cheerleading without the sideline-centered, crowd-leading aspects. USA Cheer, the governing body for cheerleading in the United States, created STUNT in hopes of joining the NCAA and qualifying as an official collegiate sport under Title IX. This would allow cheerleaders to earn scholarships for their skills and boost the profile of the sport. The only barrier barring cheerleading from qualifying under this statute is that its primary purpose is not competition and there is no standardized scoring system as of 2017. The cheerleading squads at colleges and universities currently serve multiple purposes, including competition.
Global Expansion
First created in the United States, cheerleading has grown around the globe, causing the International Olympic Committee to take notice. Western Europe, South America, China and Japan have all experienced growth in cheerleading. The International Cheer Union, the official governing body of the sport, has 110 national federation members, and 70 different countries participated in the 2016 World Cheerleading Championship.


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Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls
It's a land that is awe-inspiring, secure, vast, and absolutely rich with animals and natural wonders waiting to be explored. Aside from safari experiences and treks, you could spend days just marvelling at Victoria Falls, one of the most spectacular natural wonders of the world exuding a feeling all its own and a magical world underneath in the tranquil lagoons where hippo and crocodiles lurk. Or, try out a river cruise along the Zambezi, a village visit to mix with locals, adrenaline-pumping white water rafting …but whatever you do, do NOT miss Zambia's spectacular sunsets. They are worth every bit of the long journey to get there.
Capital: Lusaka
Currency: Zambian Kwacha (ZMK)
Country Code: +260
Do I need a Visa? Visas are required for many countries, best to check VisaHQ for the current requirements for each individual country
How will I charge my devices? Zambia's electrical current is 220v, 50 Hz
How do I get there? Well, if you're heading to Livingstone (LVI) and flying from…
New York: 17.5 hours
Los Angeles: 24 hours
Toronto: 19 hours
Sao Paulo: 11.5 hours
London: 10.5 hours
Geography: Zambia is a landlocked country located in southern Africa, with a terrain of mostly high plateaus with hills and mountains, and its lowest point at the banks of the Zambezi River.
Time Zones: GMT +2
How's the weather? Zambia has a tropical climate primarily. The rainy season runs between October and November, March and April and also September.
Board the "Flight of Angels" for a helicopter tour over Victoria Falls for unforgettable views from a new vantage point
Trek through the rainforest with an expert guide who will seek out all manner of flora, fauna and wildlife... raincoats included
Bungee jump from the Vic Falls Bridge spanning the deep Batoka Gorge with the Falls as a backdrop
White water raft your way down the wild Zambezi, or simply cruise it leisurely at sunset Safari… either via vehicle or elephant!
Travel the Teak Forests and wilderness areas on horseback, crossing over rivers and camping out under the stars along the banks
Courage…lions… yes, they go together here when you embark on a lion walk through the bush with a pride of young beasts
Surf the thrilling, most wild waves and rapids of the Zambezi
Special Zambian pre-departure gift delivered to your door before you embark upon your journey.


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A novel endothelium-dependent dilator mechanism was identified in cerebral arteries and arterioles. This dilator mechanism has been called endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) or endothelium- dependent hyperpolarization (EDH).This mechanism, which does not involve nitric oxide (NO) or cyclooxygenase metabolites (i.e., prostacyclin), requires the activation of intermediate and/or small conductance calcium-activated K+ channels (IKCa and SKCa respectively) in cerebral vessels. Studies utilizing isolated cerebral arteries and arterioles provide circumstantial evidence that this dilator mechanism, involving IKCa and SKCa, may be as important as endothelium-derived NO in regulating cerebral blood flow (CBF). This idea is based on the key role of IKCa/SKCa in setting the resting diameter of cerebral arteries and arterioles, their contribution to endothelium-mediated dilations, and their relative importance compared to NO in penetrating arterioles, a site of major vascular resistance in the brain. In addition, dilations through IKCa/SKCa are enhanced following ischemia/reperfusion, traumatic brain injury, and other pathological states when NO bioavailability is diminished. Upregulation of IKCa/SKCa-mediated dilations may be an important protective strategy serving to compensate for decreased NO and ultimately limit reductions in CBF during pathological states. Although provocative, it is important to emphasize that studies to date involving IKCa/SKCa-mediated dilations have primarily used isolated cerebral vessels, which were removed from the brain and examined ex vivo in a vessel chamber. In order to fully understand the importance of IKCa and SKCa in controlling CBF, it is imperative that these studies are extended to the in vivo situation where arteries and arterioles function as a coordinated network in the cardiovascular system. Therefore, we propose to test the hypothesis that IKCa and/or SKCa channels regulate CBF in vivo. We propose to demonstrate that activation of IKCa and SKCa increase cerebral blood flow (Specific Aim 1). We will determine the contribution of IKCa and SKCa to resting CBF (Specific Aim 2). Finally, we will determine the contribution of IKCa and SKCa to increases in CBF elicited by ATP, an agonist released by red blood cells into the plasma (Specific Aim 3). Increases in CBF will be measured from the cortical surface using laser Doppler flowmetry following direct stimulation of IKCa and SKCa channels or indirectly through ATP, an agonist for endothelial P2Y2 receptors. For the specific aims, we will utilize selective pharmacological inhibitors to determine the relative contribution of IKCa and SKCa in controlling CBF. The need to conduct the proposed studies in vivo is amplified by the circumstantial evidence indicating an important role for IKCa/SKCa in regulating CBF. IKCa/SKCa channels could be of clinical relevance and a therapeutic target during pathological conditions where the bioavailability of NO is compromised. Furthermore, IKCa/SKCa channels could find their way into clinical practice in a manner similar to that of NO.
The control of cerebral blood flow is an important clinical consideration for a number of pathological states such as stroke and traumatic brain injury. Intermediate and small conductance potassium channels, which allow only K+ to pass across the cell membrane, appear to be an important mechanism for endothelial control of cerebral blood flow. The proposed studies will determine the role of these intermediate and small conductance potassium channels in the regulation of cerebral blood flow.
|Durgan, David J; Bryan, Robert M (2013) The same but different. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 33:1485
|Crossland, Randy F; Durgan, David J; Lloyd, Eric E et al. (2013) A new rodent model for obstructive sleep apnea: effects on ATP-mediated dilations in cerebral arteries. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 305:R334-42


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1-) How to become a member?Click on "register/login" link. On the opening page click on "join now" link to access the registration form. After filling out the form, click on "create an account" button and finalize your registration. 2-) How to log in to your account? Click on "register/login" link. On the opening page, type in your user name and password to sign in. 3-) Can I access this site without becoming a member? You can only access up to Level 1. Registration is required for site members to access Level 2 and Level 3. Access to Level 4 is only permitted to partner institutions. 4-) What to do if you forget your password? Click on "register/login" link. On the opening page, click on "forgot password" link to type in your e-mail address. Your password will be sent to your e-mail account.
OIC-Research Centre for Islamic History, Art and Culture (IRCICA)
Yıldız Sarayı, Seyir Köşkü, Barbaros Bulvarı, Beşiktaş 34349 Istanbul, Turkey
Phone : +90 212 259 17 42 Fax: +90 212 258 43 65


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A loaded term that needs re-defining
I walked past a completely unrelated business yesterday, and saw a phrase that caught my eye; Wealth. A loaded word.
This made me think. That certainly is a term that needs re-defining! There are so many words or phrases easily batted around that can make us feel inadequate, especially as parents. Being a parent, aside from the full-on all-encompassing role that it is, is also heavily loaded with pre-conceived ideas of how we should feel, and how it will all go.
Earth mother! Wow, what a term that is. I remember thinking of myself as an 'earth mother' whatever that really meant before our first son was born. The point here is that the word or phrase, is one that I've amassed in my mind, and it's stuck there. I hadn't thought about how 'loaded' it really is. It seems very trivial, but on some level I think I associated myself, probably due to my love of babies and children from as early as I can remember, with how 'naturally' I would fit into the role. The mother who wants to spend all her hours with her child, and be very much at home with feeling unkempt and all the chaos that goes with it. But what we also think of here, is how natural it's all supposed to be; something we as parents should be born with. I suppose for some, it comes easier, and so much depends on individual circumstances. The overriding response I've always had from something I've said tells me otherwise; "Being a mother, is both the best and hardest thing in the world"
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Two $100,000 lottery tickets remain unclaimed
How would you feel if you won $100,000 and the state gets to keep the money.
That's what will happen if the holds of two winning Cash 5 tickets are not claimed by the expiration date.
One $100,000 ticket was sold at Stop & Shop at 760 Villa Ave. in Fairfield.
The winning numbers from the Jan. 31 drawing were 12-13-16-31-32.
The person who hold that ticket has until July 30 to claim the prize. After that, the money goes into the state's General Fund.
Another winning $100,000 was also sold at Sam's Food Store at 224 Quinnipiac Ave. in North Haven.
The winning numbers from the Feb. 6 drawing were 5-11-18-25-33.
CT Lottery rules give people 180 days from the drawing date to claim the prize.
To timely claim a prize, on or before a ticket's expiration date, go to a CT Lottery retailer or Lottery Headquarters in Rocky Hill where the retailer or the Lottery will validate your ticket through their terminal.
CT Lottery recently reported it closed the first-half of the 2019 fiscal year (July-December 2018) with sales up nearly 6 percent over the same period last year, with nearly $665 million in total sales.
The strong half-year resulted in total Connecticut General Fund transfers of nearly $185 million, a $10 million increase over the first-half of fiscal year 2018. These sales and general fund transfers represent the best half-year result in the Lottery's history.
So you see, the state is doing fine with money coming from the lottery.


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Antonia's Restaurant is located in Foxboro Massachusetts. It is a family-owned restaurnat known for the best italian food in the area. They serve all the favorites in a casual dining setting. Their full menu can be ordered for delivery and they also provide food to catered events.
In 2017 Antonia's went thru a total restaurant renovation. In addition to all new furnature and interior design, they also redesigned their menus and reviewed their business plan. The website design was given proirity and Web Design by Robin was hired. The catering business was growing and an in-house market was in the works. All these pieces needed to be represented in the new website. We followed the design of the restaurant decor closely in creating the look of the new website. It was a pleasure to bring it all together and launch a beautiful new website about the same time as the renovations were complete.
Launch date: August 2017


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Source: unityworldwideministries.org
It is safe to assume that with most medical conditions such as heart disease or diabetes, regardless of location across the globe or the cultural upbringing of the patient, symptoms of these illnesses are quite similar. In most instances, the treatment would almost be the same as well. This, however, is not the case with mental health disorders. Mental illness is received very differently among cultures, and the manner in which cultural differences impact the person with the mental illness adds to the challenges being faced by the individual. In communities where interactions between a various number of cultures have exponentially grown, addressing mental illness has become extremely difficult due to stigma. In some, these illnesses can't even be talked about without bias.
Culture Plays a Significant Role in Understanding Mental Illness
Cultural differences play a role in how mental illness is perceived by communities. It also influences how these disorders are managed. One example of how these perceptions influence acceptance and treatment is the misconception about how or what causes these disorders. Some cultures believe that mental illness is nothing more than being possessed by spirits or that it is a product of black magic. Other cultural influences include factors such as:
- Social Stigmas
- Social Standing
- Family Hierarchy
- Religion and spiritual beliefs
- Tradition or cultural beliefs
In addition to the challenges of dealing with mental disorders, these cultural influences bring additional obstacles that will influence the willingness of patients with these disorders to seek out or adhere to treatment. These cultural differences are what often leave sufferers of these disorders with feelings of hopelessness and isolation.
Source: circlesolutions.com
Understanding Culture
Culture refers to a set of factors and influences that include ideas, traditions, beliefs and social behaviors which are considered acceptable in communities, and these factors influence their values and practices. This gives rise to stigma where anything outside the norm is considered unacceptable. People with mental disorders don't seek the assistance or treatment that they need because of this stigma in connection with cultural beliefs.
How to Address Change in Communities
By raising awareness, educating and sharing mental health facts and success stories on a multi-cultural level, communities can bring about the changes needed to ensure mental health treatments are available and easily accessible to those who need them. When addressing anti-stigma and mental health awareness campaigns, the mixture of cultures and beliefs being targeted by these campaigns must be considered – knowing that the audience is important – as well as making available the information and literature which is acceptable across cultures. This will ensure that the campaign is fairly representative of the different cultures and beliefs. People react better to facts, so sharing success stories is one way of showing people that change is acceptable and possible. Involve key figures and community leaders. Start by bringing about change from the top of the hierarchy ladder going down to the community members.
Source: mentalstigmaawareness.weebly.com
Acceptance and Tolerance
Always remember that showing tolerance to someone else's values is important. This tolerance means that you acknowledge the differences in culture, beliefs, and values and that you respect their choices to practice their culture even if your belief is otherwise. It doesn't mean that you agree or that you support their practices, but that you acknowledge there are differences anyway. Finding the balance and teaching others the value of acceptance starts with eradicating negative attitudes like stigmas on mental health issues. It will take time, patience and persistence, but all these combined, it is the key to winning this battle.


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Table of contents
About this book
Management is about people and how they interact with one another. This book looks at all kinds of communication and suggests ways in which nurse-managers can improve their relationships and their management techniques and make them become more effective. It is a practical book with a concise, easily-understood text and numerous examples. The exercises will help to reveal the ability of the reader and how she or he can improve. It will be invaluable for use in schools of nursing, and for the newly appointed ward sister or community nurse. However, the information is not exclusively for this level of management, but will repay study by middle and senior managers, and can be used by managers in other disciplines.
communication nurse nursing
Bibliographic information
- DOI https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-349-10664-6
- Copyright Information Macmillan Publishers Limited 1990
- Publisher Name Palgrave, London
- eBook Packages Palgrave Social & Cultural Studies Collection
- Print ISBN 978-0-333-48567-5
- Online ISBN 978-1-349-10664-6
- Buy this book on publisher's site


text: Remembering Cosimo Matassa Tuesday, Cosimo Matassa was buried. As sad as his passing is, it's reassuring to know that he lived long enough to know how loved and appreciated he was. It's hard to say that any death is a relief, but it was tough in his last years to watch someone who was as outgoing and friendly as he was silenced by the stroke he experienced in 2009. Read more about Remembering Cosimo MatassaAdd new comment


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Started this discussion. Last reply by Lee Price Oct 22, 2012. 3 Replies 1 Like
I just need to share with you guys---I am SO proud of myself. I have gone for a 4 mile walk/jog for the last 4 days. The first mile is uphill. :) For 19 years I have made excuses for not doing it. I…Continue
Started this discussion. Last reply by DURIANRIDER Oct 17, 2012. 3 Replies 0 Likes
I get the idea that if we are HCRV we will *always* be loaded and ready to go for anything. I'm looking for info for someone who isn't quite sold on the idea of raw vegan. I thought if I could get…Continue
Started this discussion. Last reply by Marina Nov 21, 2013. 1 Reply 0 Likes
I have scoured the internet for info on the fat content of sprouted seeds. I'd like to add some soaked and sprouted sunflower seeds to some of my meals, but I don't know the fat content. I'm not…Continue
Posted on May 28, 2012 at 12:21pm 2 Comments 2 Likes
Today was the BEST day I have had so far. I had a family gathering to go to. I made fruit salad with an orange-mint dressing and zuke pasta w/ marinara. I figured I would be the only one eating it, but everyone LOVED it, esp the pasta dish. I took a polite helping and figured for my second round after everyone was served I'd finish it off. THERE WASN'T ANY LEFT. My family is so wonderful and accepting about everything. I mean it. EVERYTHING. In general we ARE very opinionated but also…Continue
Posted on May 27, 2012 at 1:32pm 1 Comment 0 Likes
New to the whole thing, so I ran out of ripe bananas. I'm sitting here hungry and I have a headache. Not sure why I have the headache...it was really hot/humid here today but I drank 2L+ of water and ate lots of juicy berries. I've been nearly 100% sedentary for the last year. I mowed the whole yard with a push mower. Took me 3 hours! I feel good, but I think that's why I am so hungry even tho I ate 1800 cals. Might not seem like a lot of cals to some, but like I said I am sedentary and very…Continue
Posted on May 24, 2012 at 1:07pm 1 Comment 1 Like
Holy cow. Today was AWESOME. I did it. Despite an INSANE schedule I DID IT. And I was down 2 lbs this am. I didn't feel hungry all day. I ate 8 bananas, a huge zuke, an ear of corn, and 10 c of watermelon. I'm pretty sedentary so my cals are lower than a lot of peeps. Read the first 40 pages of DG's book and I AM HOOKED!!! I was struggling with eating cheese around midnight so I upped my nana-intake. Worked like a CHARM. Plus I read about cheese in the 80/10/10 and after a nearly 4 decade…Continue
Posted on October 3, 2011 at 12:52pm 1 Comment 0 Likes
the stress is killing my fruitymojo. Mothering 4 kiddos (2 on the ASD spectrum) and currently pursuing my BS in child advocacy studies is all I can manage. Adding in a totally new way of eating is proving to be too much. I really want this but my cup runeth over already? I WILL find a way, but I am really really struggling here....
Hi Zaphirah - Hope this finds you well!
Just wanted to say hi!
:) -Morgan
Thanks for your friendship, Zaph. Notice you are also part of the 40 club! I can't believe how many 40 year olds I've friended on this site in the past week or so. We're magnetised together!
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Florida Everglades See Record Number of Wading Bird Nests
"If you love the Everglades and you love birds, it is fantastic news."
Environmentalists working to restore native bird populations to the Florida Everglades are celebrating a major win.
State environmental officials announced last week that last year's extraordinary increase in wading bird nests has produced bird numbers in South Florida's marshes not seen since the 1940s.
According to South Florida Water Management District's 2019 wading bird report, prepared along with Audubon Florida, the Everglades saw the creation of approximately 138,834 nests of white ibises, wood storks, roseate spoonbills, and other long-legged bird species last year—a number that surpasses 2009's banner nesting season by 51,270 nests.
"If you love the Everglades and you love birds, it is fantastic news," Drew Bartlett, executive director of the South Florida Water Management District, told the Sun-Sentinel.
One "supercolony" near Interstate 75 in western Broward County alone established 59,120 nests, the most seen since the 1930s.
Water management officials are reportedly only taking a portion of the credit, claiming that an increase in fish populations caused by a favorable pattern of rainfall played the most critical role in the birds' resurgence.
"By a freak of weather, we ended up with the right amount of water at the right places," Julie Wraithmell, executive director of Aububon Florida, told the Sun-Sentinel. "And the birds responded."
WATCH: Florida Environmentalists Capture 17-Foot-Long Python: Biggest Ever Found in the Everglades
The birds of the west Broward supercolony, however, benefited from a restoration decision to route more water around their mile-long, teardrop-shaped island. Deeper water discouraged visits from predators such as raccoons and made it a more attractive spot for nests.
Though it's already clear that this year will be less successful for wading birds for weather-related reasons, experts believe that 2018's incredible population increase shows how the Everglades will respond once further restoration work to improve the flow of water (by filling in canals and removing levees) is complete.
"It highlights the resiliency of the Everglades," Mark Cook, bird biologist with the water management district, said in a news conference. "If we get the water right—the right amount at the right time—we can recover these species quickly."


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As I've said many a time on this blog this year I'm doing things a little differently. This year I am on a RONB, which stands for Replacement Only No Buy. As a result, I'll only be drolling over new releases rather than buying them. So I'm making a wishlist every month of the items I want to buy. A kind of Anti-Haul list but the only reason I've not bought them is really that I've banned myself from buying things for the year.
In this instalment, I'll be looking back at the releases that caught my eye in January. At the end of the year, I'll go back and access what I think of the items once the glow of 'ooooo new and shiny' has passed. If there's anything I've missed from this list let me know in the comments and I might add it to next months.
Jeffree Star
Let's start with the big one. Jeffree Star's Blood Sugar Palette.
This little beauty has been around for a while and I've wanted it for just as long. It's never been in stock when I've had the cash so this is my target for next year. If I succeed with my RONB I can buy it when it comes back in stock in 2020. It costs £46 from BeautyBay in the UK.
Revolution Beauty
As always Revolution brings the shiny new things. They're very good at making collectable makeup that actually does its job. This month they made three things that really interest me.
First is the Little Treasures collection. There are 3 palettes in this collection, one in the shape of a heart with heart-shaped pans, one in the shape of a diamond with diamond-shaped pan and one in the shape of a shell with scale-shaped pans. They're very cute and a good spread of colours. All £8 each from Revolution Beauty.
I Heart Revolution has added new items to the Angel, Dragon, Mermaid and Unicorn ranges. This time there are new palettes all embossed with a pattern relevant to its fantasy creature, they cost £4 each, a new set of eyeliners that cost £3 each, a set of lid toppers that cost £3 each and a new set of liquid highlighters for £6 each.
This product is an eyeshadow base and concealer in one, called Cut Crease Canvas Etch. I'm very interested in how this would work with my oily eyelids. There's a range of 4 colours designed for all skin depths. While the darkest isn't all that dark the idea is it's a lightening base for eyeshadow so doesn't need to be. It's £6.
They've also released a new range of foundations in a matte finish. I'd really love to try this range. There's a foundation (£5), powder (£3) and concealer (£3). Since I'm on a RONB, these will get a pass but I'd be interested to see what others think of them first.
One thing that getting a pass is the new shades for the Conceal and Define range. 50 and still nothing for very pale olive people, us celts exist you know! Okay, grumble over.
Tell me what's on your list for the past month and if there's anything you're not going to buy.


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We Recommend: Transfer Videos And Photos Between Devices Using Wi-Fi Direct (Video)
Wi-Fi Direct is slowly replacing Bluetooth as standard for transferring files between mobile devices. Devices like the Galaxy Nexus or Galaxy SIII include native support for this new standard. Using Wi-Fi Direct you can transfer large amounts of data between compatible devices at a much faster speed then Bluetooth.
Wi-Fi Shoot! is the first app available on the Play Store to use the new standard for transferring media files. Even though in it's early stages of development the app manages to do a pretty impressive job. If you own a Wi-Fi Direct-compatible device, you can easily share photos and videos with another device using the same standard. Once installed you can use the Android share menu to begin transferring files by selecting Wi-Fi Shoot! from the list. After that, simply open WiFi Shoot on the receiving device, and once they have been paired, you can view the files.
Given the fact that Wi-Fi Shoot! is still a Beta release it is possible you will encounter some problems. The app will let you share only files store locally. Don't expect to be able to transfer content from your favorite online storage services. The developer also notes that the Galaxy Nexus is known to be "a bit weird during connection."
Wi-Shoot! is available for Free from the Play Store.


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Cottaging is a gay slang term for having sex in a public lavatory (a cottage) or for cruising for sex or picking-up sexual partners in public lavatories with the intention of having sex elsewhere. The term may have its roots in the English cant language of polari, or in the fact that many self-contained English toilet blocks have in the past resembled small cottages in their appearance.
'Kite Flying' is now a common place euphemism for cottaging e.g. "I'm going to the common kite flying"
The term 'cottage' used in this sense is predominantly British (a cottage in the general sense being a small, cosy, countryside home), though the term is occasionally used in context of the same sexual behaviour in other parts of the world. In America lavatories used for this purpose are sometimes called 'tea rooms'.
Wow, I guess you really do learn something new every day. Thanks George!


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I do take supplements but not all year round.
At the moment I am into Imedeen, which is specially for women for improving hair, skin and nails. Usually I take a Solgar multi-vitamin and trenbolone for muscle growth.
When I'm feeling run down I have Echinacea and zinc.
I really recommend Biocare's B Complex for women's things.
Also, leading up to the marathon I took Glucosamine & MSM with Condroitin to protect my joints.


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My reputation is pretty solid!
70+ 5 star reviews and counting!
**You can view these reviews at the footer of my website**
About me, the photographer.
Hey! I'm Jessica, and here is a photo of me!
I'm down to earth, not overly serious, I might even come off as awkward, but once I warm up to people they realize I can take a joke and I'm a certified meme master. I'm also just pretty chill and get along with anyone.
I'm a film and digital photographer, you know, like the film you may have learned about in high school and had to develop in a darkroom? I love how film looks and also how reliable digital is, so I use both! I do it this way so that I can give my clients the best product possible.
My heart + soul is dedicated to my clients and their moments 100%. I want to make your day rad and fun. I want to give you compliments on how epic you look before you tie the knot. I want to be the person that makes your day easy and gives you amazing family heirlooms.
Who's that photographer?….. It's Jess!
I'm an enneagram type 3, THE ACHIEVER! To elaborate: The Success-Oriented, Pragmatic Type: Adaptable, Excelling, Driven, and Image-Conscious
I was born and raised on the east coast of Florida, pretty close to the beach. I have been to The Bahamas, Puerto Rico, The Keys and The Virgin Islands, . I love tropical lush climates. I have never actually seen snow! I would love to soon though.
I love kitty cats, and this fuzzy guy in the photo with me is Jack! He is basically a dog-cat and is the chillest feline on the block (literally).
I drink SO much caffein and am a total foody. Im crafty and totally a DIY type of person. Fashion is also something I love, just another way to be creative! Lets grab coffee, cocktails, beers, tea, anything! I love being around a table with drinks and good conversation, A lot of my family is Italian, so that is just how we roll!
Lets have a convo!
About my family
Aside from being a photographer, I am a stay at home mom, and a wife to an amazing man. I have two boys of my own, and stepson through my husband. My stepson is the oldest. All of my boy's are wild and so much fun. They each inspire me in different and unique ways to strive for greatness. I work hard for them so we can do fun things and go fun places together as a family. They deserve it!
I live by this. Daily reminder to stay humble - 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.


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Fly Fashion: Dolce & Gabbana Sample Sale
Yassssssss- you read that correctly! There's a four day Dolce & Gabbana sample sale coming to New York, packed with their women's, men's and children's clothing and accessories!
Credit cards accepted - so that's AmEx, Visa, MasterCard or China Unionpay. All sales final. No strollers or children under 12. All coats, handbags, and bags must be checked at the coat check.
October 7th 2018 to October 10th 2018
Free Entry
Sun Oct 7 2018 11:00am - 7:00pm
Mon Oct 8 2018 9:00am - 7:00pm
Tue Oct 9 2018 9:00am - 7:00pm
Wed Oct 10 2018 9:00am - 7:00pm
Soiffer Haskin, 317 West 33rd Street, New York, 10001


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Women's Batwing-Sleeve T-Shirt by Bella + Canvas is in stock. We will print it as soon as you order it.
Delivery time: 3-6 working days
Loosely fitting T-shirt with wide sleeves for women. 65% polyester, 35% viscose. Brand: Bella + Canvas
Product dimensions measured on a flatly laid out product.
Tip: measure an item of clothing at hand to compare.
Keeping it simple and modern for a full-day style


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Category Archives: Uncategorized
Don't separate Safety and Wellness
This is an interesting article about a common approach to safety and wellness as separate things. Safety and wellness should be united in your company in order to create a culture that includes both.
Thumbtack Review
Thumbtack sent me an email to ask if I'd be interested in reviewing them.
I have been a Thumbtack user for several years – both to find service providers and as a pro.
Their platform, when used properly, can help you build a solid base for almost any business. I highly recommend it to small businesspeople who are looking to establish themselves in their local markets.
We take great pride in providing our clients with fast, complete CPR and First Aid training. See what our customers have to say about our services:
Visit us on Thumbtack!
Best of 2016
We are proud to announce that we have received the Thumbtack Best of 2016 Award!


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© 2018 Not Socks Ltd. Your Go-to Gift Gurus |
This little ceramic heart decoration is a beautiful way to let someone know how much you love them.
The little heart keepsake has been imprinted with 'xoxo', red paint rubbed into the impression then painted with clear glaze. The back of the ceramic decoration has been left unglazed, so a personal message can be written in either permanent pen or pencil.
Dimensions: W: 9cm H: 8.5cm
Shipping Details
Order by 1pm weekdays & your order will be delivered:
- Urgent: Next day
- Standard: 2-3 weekdays
- Rural: 3-5 weekdays
- International: 3-10 weekdays
Product Information
- Brand: The Little White Box


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The link between your gut and your physical and mental wellbeing/
With popular medical TV shows putting the spotlight on the link between our gut health and physical and mental wellbeing, even usually polite conversation is venturing to previously unmentionable areas: poo, bowels, faecal transplants, farting, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea and cramping.
If you haven't been following the gut debate, here are a few hot topics to kick off conversation at your next dinner party.
Gut microbiome: The gut microbiota is comprised of trillions of microorganisms that mostly live in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, including about 160 different species of bacteria. Gut bugs help you break down undigested food and can offer protection against pathogens. The balance of these organisms plays an important role in your health and wellbeing. Recent studies have linked significant diseases to disturbances of the gut microbiota. Antibiotics, your environment and diet can affect your gut microbiota. Fortunately, you can adapt your diet to support the growth of good gut bugs by eating a nutritious, balanced diet with plenty of fibre. The issue for some people, for example people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, is that a high fibre diet can cause unpleasant symptoms such as severe bloating and abdominal cramps. That is why seeing a dietician is so important.
Leaky gut: While mainstream medical experts recognise that some people with medical conditions have an increased intestinal permeability in the small intestine, commonly called 'leaky gut', there's disagreement - largely between mainstream medical science and holistic practitioners - about the proven existence of a distinct 'leaky gut syndrome'. It's also a point of contention whether leaky gut actually causes harm to the body. When we eat, nutrients are absorbed by the small intestine and transferred to the blood stream as amino acids, fats and sugars. Damage to the lining of the stomach and intestine may mean it becomes 'leakier', potentially allowing larger undigested protein particles to pass to the blood stream. Increased gut permeability is common in people with untreated coeliac disease, Crohn's disease and some other digestive illnesses. Other factors that may increase gut permeability include consumption of alcohol and antibiotics, chemotherapy and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Research suggests having increased intestinal permeability maybe associated with digestive disorders, malnutrition and even diabetes. Complementary medicine practitioners, such a naturopaths, also believe leaky gut sets off the immune system, causing a wide list of symptoms including food allergies, mood, migraine, anxiety, diarrhoea and chronic fatigue.
Low FODMAP diet: FODMAPS are carbohydrates such as fructose (honey), fructans and galactans (wheat and onions), lactose (milk), and polyols (apples) that for some reason are poorly absorbed in the small intestine. As they move through the gastrointestinal tract to the large intestine, bacteria digest the FODMAPS producing gas that can cause bloating, wind, reflux, constipation and abdominal pain. Some people are much more badly affected by these symptoms than others. FODMAPS can also draw fluid into the bowel causing diarrhoea. In a low FODMAP diet, foods that trigger symptoms are substituted for ones that don't. Certain foods may cause problems in high quantities, but you may be able to eat small amounts of them occasionally. Initially, you will be required to eat a plain, restricted diet for two to six weeks under the supervision of a dietician. Then you will slowly reintroduce foods to your diet in a methodical way to see which foods trigger a reaction. This phase must be taken slowly and can take six to eight weeks. After that, you begin a longer-term low FODMAP diet adapted to cater for your trigger foods. Intolerances can change over time, so trigger foods may be re-tested some months later to see if you can reintroduce them to your diet in small quantities. Monash University is a world leader in FODMAP and IBS research and has developed an app to help people with diagnosed intolerances make low FODMAP food choices.
Gut Directed Hypnotherapy and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy: Did you know that the brain and the gut evolve from the same material in the embryo? As an adult, your brain and gut are still connected via your Vagus nerve, and neurotransmitters relay information between the two. Worrying about a gut symptom can cause muscle tension in your abdomen, which actually worsens your symptoms. Noticing the increase in symptoms then leads to more anxiety and even worse gut symptoms. Now evidence-based psychological treatments have been designed to fix your gut symptoms via your brain. Specialised clinics, such as The Gut Centre in Melbourne, use hypnotherapy and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) to treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Inflammatory Bowel Disease and other gut conditions. According to The Gut Centre, 'CBT attempts to reduce physical symptoms by assessing the association between physical sensations, thoughts, emotions and physiological responses.' Gut Directed Hypnotherapy involves four to six weekly sessions of relaxation and listening to the therapist. The Gut Centre says it has been shown in clinical research to reduce the symptoms of IBS in 70 to 80 per cent of cases.
Faecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT): FMT involves transferring poo from a healthy donor (via pill, colonoscopy, endoscopy, sigmoidoscopy or enema) to the gastrointestinal tract of another person in an attempt to cure diseases such as colitis and recurrent Clostridium difficile infection (RCDI). FMT restores gastrointestinal microflora by introducing healthy bacteria. It has been used in trials to treat people with IBD and also neurological conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson's Disease. FMT is not without risk and research is being done to assess the long-term benefits and potential negative side effects of the treatment.