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The Consolidated Appropriations Act 2021, which was signed into law on December 27th, 2020, provides another $900 billion in funding for coronavirus relief for individuals and business owners. The new bill serves as an expansion of the 2020 CARES Act, offering additional funding and a number of key changes to both the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program.
Although the rules for the new PPP and EIDL are similar to the original programs, there are some significant differences that you should be aware of as a business owner. Among these include new eligibility requirements, clarification of the tax implications of the legislation, and beneficial changes related to loan forgiveness.
While additional clarification and updates on the new programs are set to be released in the next few weeks, in this two-part series we'll cover some of the most critical highlights you should know about. Here in the first part of the series, we'll discuss the new loans available under the PPP.
A New Round of PPP Loans
The original PPP program from March 2020 included $349 billion in its initial funding. That money was gone within two weeks, which led to a second round of funding totaling $320 billion. The second round of loans ended in August 2020. This new legislation marks the third round of PPP funding, and it includes another $284 billion in loans to business owners to help cover their payroll and other basic operating costs during the pandemic.
The new PPP funding allows you to apply for a loan whether you received an initial PPP loan or not. The eligibility rules for the loans are somewhat different than before and are based on whether you are borrowing for the first time or already received money in the first two rounds. To be eligible for any of the new loans, a business must have been in operation by Feb. 15, 2020.
First Time Borrowers
If you did not receive a PPP loan in the first two rounds of funding, you can apply for this third round of funding and potentially qualify for up to $10 million as a new applicant. The program rules are essentially the same as during the first round, and the eligibility requirements include:
- Any business categorized under "Accommodation or Food Services," such as restaurants and hotels with 500 or fewer employees per location
- Tribal businesses
- Independently owned franchises
- Self-employed workers, independent contractors, gig workers, and sole proprietors
Unlike the initial rounds, during this third round of funding, business owners in bankruptcy are now eligible for PPP loans, and the loans will be treated as administrative expenses.
Second Time Borrowers
If you previously received PPP funding in the first two rounds, you may be eligible for round three funding using what's known as a "second draw loan," provided you've used all of your previous funds or will use them.
Second-draw loans are capped at a maximum of $2 million, and to qualify your business must have 300 or fewer employees, down from the original 500 employee maximum. You must also demonstrate that you experienced a loss of at least 25% of revenue in any quarter in 2020 compared to that same quarter in 2019. This is a big difference from the original PPP guidelines that simply required you to state that economic uncertainty made the loan necessary.
This new round of loans is designed to fund 2.5 months of your payroll expenses. To determine how much you would qualify for under the second draw loans, take your average monthly payroll for 2019 and multiply it by 2.5. The bill has a special calculation for restaurants and other food service industries and provides those businesses a larger loan amount of 3.5 months of average monthly payroll.
For example, if you had an average monthly payroll in 2019 of $100,000, then your business would qualify for $250,000. If you were a restaurant or other qualifying food business, you would qualify for $350,000.
New Qualified Expenses
Like the first round of loans, the amount of funding you spend on eligible payroll costs—along with covered mortgage interest, rent, and utility payments—is eligible for forgiveness. The new bill also adds several new non-payroll expenses to the list of qualifying expenses for forgiveness, and these include:
- Covered operations expenses: This includes money spent on software, cloud computing, and other human resources and accounting needs.
- Covered property damage costs: This includes expenses related to property damage due to public disturbances that occurred during 2020 that are not covered by insurance.
- Covered supplier costs: This includes expenditures to a supplier that are related to a contract, purchase order, or order for goods in effect prior to taking out the loan that are essential to the borrower's operations at the time at which the expenditure was made. Supplier costs of perishable goods can be made before or during the life of the loan.
- Covered worker protection expenses: This includes money spent on PPE and other adaptive measures to help comply with health and safety guidelines at the federal, state, and local level related to COVID-19 during the period between March 1, 2020, and the end of the national emergency declaration.
60% of PPP Loan Must be Spent of Payroll
The second draw loans are eligible to be forgiven provided that 60% of the funds are spent on payroll costs. The PPP's existing safe harbors on restoring full-time equivalent employees and salaries and wages also continue to apply to the new loans.
Tax Treatment of New PPP Loans
Under the new legislation, forgiven PPP loans will not be taxable to business owners. This applies to all existing PPP loans under the original rounds of funding as well as the new second draw PPP loans. Previously, the IRS had ruled that you could not deduct your wages and other qualifying expenses that you used your PPP funds on if your PPP loan was forgiven—which effectively created a tax on the loan.
There had been much confusion and debate on this part of the legislation, as it seemed to contradict the intent of the CARES Act, but this new legislation officially clears that up. This means you can have your PPP loan forgiven and still be able to deduct your payroll and other qualifying business expenses paid with your PPP money. Additionally, any income tax basis increase that results from your PPP loan will remain even if the PPP loan is eventually forgiven
PPP Loan Forgiveness
The SBA plans to create a simplified PPP loan forgiveness application for businesses whose PPP loans were less than $150,000. This simplified application will fit on one page and include loan information as well as certification from you that the funds were used properly and are eligible for forgiveness, but it will not include calculations or other additional information.
The SBA already has a simplified one-page PPP forgiveness application for borrowers of $50,000 or less. It is likely that the SBA will utilize a similar application for borrowers with loans of less than $150,000.
Keep in mind that even though the loan forgiveness form will be simplified, the funds must still be spent properly to qualify for forgiveness, and the SBA may audit these applications. With this in mind, be sure to keep careful documentation of how you spent these funds in case your loan is audited.
New PPP Loans Deadline
The new bill extends the PPP loans through March 31, 2021, or until funds are depleted.
Choose Your PPP Loan Covered Period
The first two rounds of PPP loans required that the time during which you had to use your loan funds (covered period) would be the eight-week period beginning on the date you received your loan proceeds. That was later expanded to 24 weeks.
However, this new round allows you to choose any length period between 8 weeks and 24 weeks, giving you more control in handling reductions to your staff, if needed, once PPP funds are depleted.
How to Apply
Like the first rounds of funding, the new round of PPP loans will be administered by SBA-approved lenders using a new version of the existing SBA 7(a) loan program. You can apply for your PPP loan through any of the 1,800 participating SBA approved 7(a) lenders or through any participating federally insured depository institution, federally insured credit union, and Farm Credit System institution (meaning your local bank).
If you have trouble finding a lender, you can use the SBA's PPP lender search tool.
On the evening of January 8, 2021, the SBA released guidance on the new PPP loans. At the same time, the SBA also released links to the new PPP loan application forms.
According to the SBA, smaller businesses that did not receive a PPP loan the first time around can begin to apply on Monday, January 11th for the new loans. Those that did receive one of the original loans can apply for a second draw PPP loan beginning on Wednesday, January 13th, provided they meet the new eligibility requirements. For larger applicants, the program will open "shortly thereafter," according to the SBA.
For more information on the program, check the PPP program website on a daily basis and stay tuned to our blog for weekly updates.
Don't Wait To Apply
Contact us, as your Family Business Lawyer™, if you need help reviewing your options under the PPP program. Since there is only a finite amount of funding available, the sooner you apply, the better. Schedule an appointment with us today to learn more.
New $10,000 EIDL Grants
The CARES Act passed in March 2020 included a grant (or advance) of up to $10,000 for business owners. However, the SBA later determined those grants would only cover $1,000 per employee, and many business owners who didn't get the full $10,000 felt cheated. What's more, the funds available for the grants ran out before all eligible businesses received them. This new legislation appears to help remedy some of those issues.
The new legislation includes new targeted EIDL grants designed to assist businesses that were hardest hit by the economic impacts of the coronavirus, and Congress has allocated $20 billion for these grants. While these new grants are an extension of the emergency EIDL grants passed under the CARES Act, the eligibility requirements are a bit different than the initial program.
Eligibility Qualifications For the New EIDL Grants
To qualify for the full targeted $10,000 EIDL grant, your business must meet the following three requirements:
- Be located in a low-income community
- Have suffered an economic loss greater than 30%
- Not employ more than 300 employees
Additionally, your business must qualify as an "eligible entity" as defined in the CARES Act:
- A small business, cooperative, ESOP Tribal concern, with fewer than 500 employees (Note: It's not clear yet if this requirement will be reduced to 300 employees for new EIDL grant applicants.)
- An individual who operates as a sole proprietorship, with or without employees, or as an independent contractor
- A private non-profit or small agricultural cooperative
- The business must have been in operation by January 31, 2020
- The business must be directly affected by COVID-19
For the purpose of the grants, an economic loss is defined as "the amount by which the gross receipts of the covered entity declined during an 8-week period between March 2, 2020, and December 17, 2021, relative to a comparable 8-week period immediately preceding March 2, 2020, or during 2019."
At this point, it's unclear how the SBA will require those who apply for the grants to document their economic loss, but we'll update this as more clarifications are issued.
What Qualifies as a Low-Income Community?
In the text of the stimulus act, it uses a definition from the Internal Revenue Code to clarify what would qualify as a low-income community. In Section 45D(e)(1) of the IRS Code of 1986, a low-income community is defined as follows:
"The term 'low-income community' means any population census tract if (A) the poverty rate for such tract is at least 20 percent, or (B)(i) in the case of a tract not located within a metropolitan area, the median family income for such tract does not exceed 80 percent of statewide median family income, or (ii) in the case of a tract located within a metropolitan area, the median family income for such tract does not exceed 80 percent of the greater of statewide median family income or the metropolitan area median family income."
In other words, you live in a low-income community if you meet any of the following three standards:
- If more than 20% of families in your community are below the poverty level.
- If the median family income in your community is 80% of that of your metro area or lower.
- If the median family income in your community is 80% of that of your state or lower.
For help determining whether or not your business is located in a low-income community under the EIDL rules, these instructions may prove helpful.
This mapping tool from the Census Bureau may also help you determine if your business is located in a low-income community. However, we recommend you do not rely on these outside resources to determine if you qualify for a grant, and instead wait for additional guidance from the SBA.
Tax Implications of the New EIDL Grants
The new legislation specifies that the EIDL grants are not taxable and that businesses who receive them will not be denied a tax deduction for qualified expenses paid for with the funds.
Repeal of PPP forgiveness penalty:
Moreover, the new law repeals the CARES Act provision that required PPP borrowers to deduct the amount of their EIDL advance grant from their PPP forgiveness amount. Therefore, EIDL grants will not be deducted from PPP for loan forgiveness purposes, and this applies to all EIDL grants, including those already received.
Applying For the New EIDL Grants
Under the legislation, a qualified business may submit a request to the SBA and receive the full $10,000 EIDL grant regardless of whether their application for an EIDL "is or was approved," they accepted an EIDL loan, or they previously received a PPP loan. Any EIDL grant (not loan) previously received will be subtracted from the $10,000 EIDL grant.
The SBA is required to notify anyone who received a previous EIDL grant, or who applied but did not receive one because funding was exhausted, that they may be able to apply for the full $10,000 grant. It's not yet clear how this contact will be initiated.
If a business requests an EIDL grant, the SBA has 21 days after receiving the request to verify whether the business is eligible. If eligible, the grant will be issued, and if not, the applicant must be notified why the SBA rejected their request. The legislation does not spell out the verification procedure other than to state that the SBA may request any documentation necessary, including tax records, even if that information has been requested before.
The legislation states the SBA will process applications in the order received, except that priority will be given to those who previously received an EIDL grant under the CARES Act, followed by those who did not receive a grant because funding was exhausted.
We do not yet know the procedure for requesting the full grant. However, the SBA has indicated that a new EIDL application portal will be available by January 17, 2021. For more information, you should monitor news from the SBA website, and stay tuned to our weekly blog for updates.
Deadline: The legislation extends the EIDL program through December 31, 2021.
EIDL Loans Are Still Available
Note that the new legislation allocates additional funding and makes eligibility changes to the EIDL emergency advance program, but not the loans themselves. While the new EIDL emergency grants won't be available until January 17, 2021, the SBA is still accepting applications for its loans.
The EIDL program pre-dates the coronavirus pandemic, but the CARES Act relaxed its requirements, expanded eligibility, and authorized the $10,000 grants. The loans come with a 3.75% interest rate for small businesses (2.75% for non-profits), with a 30-year maturity and an automatic deferment of one year before monthly payments begin. Businesses can use the loan for working capital and operating expenses, including the continuation of healthcare benefits, rent, utilities, and fixed debt payments.
If you have not previously applied for an EIDL loan, you can do so by filling out an online application at the SBA website. When you complete the loan application, you will be given the option to check a box to be considered for the emergency EIDL grant. If you check that box, you may get a grant of $1,000 per employee. Additionally, we anticipate you may be considered for the full $10,000 targeted EIDL grant, but we do not have details on that process as of yet.
Keep in mind, if you just want an EIDL grant but not a loan, and you have not yet applied for either, you do not have to accept an EIDL loan. Some business owners choose to accept the grant, but not the loan, and that is perfectly acceptable.
Enlist Our Support
With new updates and clarifications being released all the time, it can be confusing trying to figure out your best course of action under these new programs. Contact us, as your Family Business Lawyer™, if you need help reviewing your options under either the EIDL or PPP program. Schedule your appointment today to learn more.
This article is a service of Stafford Law Firm. We offer a complete spectrum of legal services for businesses and can help you make the wisest choices on how to deal with your business throughout life and in the event of your death. We also offer a LIFT Start-Up Session™ or a LIFT Audit for an ongoing business, which includes a review of all the legal, insurance, financial, and tax systems you need for your business. Call us today to schedule.


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The Master of Business Administration or MBA is a postgraduate degree that lakhs of Indian students aim to pursue every year. Though the MBA aspirations may not be all time high as of now, yet it remains one of the most pursued discipline when it comes to Indian students. Veena Venugopal, in her Business Line article, perfectly puts the perspective of common Indian students and parents- they tend to link education with economic success. For most families, the MBA is an investment for a better and prosperous future. And we all know what studying a course without interest and only for the sake of earning a high paycheck does to the minds of a student. They lose interest and impatiently wait for the two years course to finish. But what about the candidates with high pre-MBA interest? Why do they begin to find the programme dry?
You and I both are no strangers to the diversion of our thought and attention when we open our course books. But the tight study schedule of the MBA students facilitates this process to step in much quicker than us. A survey highlighted that management students feel most frustrated and unhappy while pursuing an MBA or equivalent degree. So why do the students feel unhappy while being enrolled in the management programme?
For starters, many students expect more than the soaring salary package when they join an MBA college. While there are different reasons for each student, the most common factors of the immediate lack of interest are as follows.
The monotony of theoretical study and the flashes of a 9 to 5 job soon creeps into the minds of millennials. Even the thought of earning a fat cheque at the end of the month does not seem to spike interest in many students.
❏ Lots of Topics to Cover in the first-year: MBA, as the name suggests, will furnish an individual with a profound knowledge of business and management. A traditional MBA course structure will cover the foundations of all related subjects such as Marketing, Finance, Business Strategy, Human Resources, Operations, Systems etc. Covering all aspects of these domains in two years means a cramped timetable with consequent classes to attend. Even if a student finds the tight schedule blissful in the beginning, soon they can start to feel depressing due to a constant on-campus life.
❏ Students seem to yearn for a life outside campus or a little break from the studying.
❏ Same old Specializations– While it is crucial and integral that MBA colleges offer Finance and Marketing specializations, students like to have numerous options in front of them while selecting their specializations. The traditional MBA course structure does not allow the induction of 21st-century industry-relevant courses such as Tech Management or Digital Business Management.
❏ Lack of International Exposure– Even when a student detects the hindrance of happiness due to the MBA curriculum, an international exchange programme can help to get back the interest of students. It is difficult to get back the appeal of the MBA for students studying an MBA course without the option of real-life global experience.
❏ Most importantly, possessing a traditional MBA degree does not set you apart from the crowd. Almost everyone in your future company will possibly hold an MBA degree.
What can Indian B-Schools do to recreate the fascination of MBA amongst students?
Now that we have established what makes the traditional MBA programme monotonous, we must look into how a business school can offer a contemporary MBA programme with a fine blend of a traditional and modern approach. Today's B-schools can offer the following.
➔ An amalgamation of the best management programs to create a unique MBA course.
➔ Adoption of Participant-Centric approach.
➔ The opportunity of participating in Paid internship programmes.
➔ The provision of international student/faculty exchange programs that will spike the keen interest to learn about global management affairs.
➔ Teaching the course through modern methods like case studies, simulations, Group Discussions, Seminars, Business Games, etc.
Which institute is covering all the above aspects in their MBA programme/s?
Since its establishment in 1989, the Mumbai Educational Trust (MET) has offered innovative and multi-disciplinary courses to thousands who are now occupying some of the top positions in the corporate world in India and abroad. Of many disciplines, the management programmes of this institute are quite noteworthy due to the sheer uniqueness. Be it autonomous or courses with national/international accreditation, the institute has taken exceptional measures to ensure modern and industry immersive management curriculum of the MBA programmes.
Join the Official MET Admissions Group 2020-22 to ask any queries.
MET Unique Management Programmes
- Post Graduate Diploma in Management or PGDM in e-Business:
The AICTE approved course is an excellent mixture of the best of both worlds- the traditional and modern. As the name suggests, the focus is more on preparing the students to tackle the trending business challenges of the digital business world. To provide the best management education, MET has courageously and successfully adopted the amalgam of theoretical and practical approaches. This is evident in the specialization options of both fundamental domains and the new age tech fields.
Programme Highlights
- Multiple specialization options and core subjects- From Marketing, Finance, HR, Operations and Systems to Design Thinking, Business Analytics, Digital Business and Digital Marketing, eCommerce, Event Management and Real Estate.
- First-rate industry-relevant course structure.
- Close-knit and extensive networking.
- High Return on Investment.
- Emphasis on skill generation, professional development and personal growth.
- Focus on Entrepreneurship domain.
- A plethora of placement opportunities with excellent placement records.
- eMBA
The MET Asian Management Development Centre in Mumbai offers a one-of-a-kind 'e-empowered' MBA. It is an autonomous programme that offers specializations in the areas of Finance, Human Resources and Marketing. Any management aspirant aiming to transform their career globally through in-demand skills will find the eMBA quite interesting.
Programme Highlights
- The management verticals are delivered with an emphasis on Global Perspective
- Industry Curriculum and Expertise
- Experiential learning through – workshops, seminars and class debates, solve case studies, role plays
- Live projects, summer placements and executive placements
- Focus on Entrepreneurship and Digital Capabilities
- eMBA-Insurance
The MET Centre for Insurance Training, Research & Development in Mumbai offers 'e-empowered' MBA in Insurance. It is an autonomous programme that offers eMBA-Insurance in collaboration with Chartered Insurance Institute, London. After undertaking this course, around 200 professional executives are now working in different organizations of finance, insurance and banking sectors across the Gulf countries.
Programme Highlights
- Gives you Double Qualification – eMBA & 'ACII' designation
- Will be awarded the 'Advanced Diploma in Insurance' by the CII, London
- 'Chartered' status for qualifying members of the CII
- Over 150 countries open up as your workplace
- Optional training in London, giving an exposure to International market
- Facilitates learning through – workshops, seminars and class debates, solve case studies, role plays
- uMBA (Universal MBA)
The Universal MBA programme of MET Asian Management Development Centre is one of the bellwether management courses of the institute. Only the best aspects of management courses of MET Mumbai, Manhattan Institute of Management New York, EAE Business School Spain and TASA Asia are inducted into the uMBA course.
The uMBA programme is designed to bring the best global business and management practices to MET students. The preeminent faculty of the aforementioned institutes developed the uMBA course in coaction that aims at the futuristic and all-inclusive development of the individuals.
The course brings the students the synergy of the Indian mindset and the American form of life learning. This also reflects in the modern teaching techniques of MET that includes case-studies, consolidated international and corporate exposure along with a strong theoretical knowledge.
The outlook of the course is to furnish the students with modern and ever-changing dynamics of the global business field. Students of uMBA will also get the opportunity to study in the two financial capital cities of India and USA.
Programme Highlights:
- The progress-driven and unique composition of the uMBA programme by three institutes pave the path towards a universal career.
- Opportunity to study and experience the business practices and cultures of two most busy cities of the world- Mumbai and New York.
- Paid Internship in New York City- Participants of the uMBA programme will get firsthand experience in the corporate centre of the world. This involvement in New York will induce a business knowledge that many MBA aspirants would not like to exchange with any other destination.
- 5 Certifications- The uMBA programme can facilitate a student to get certifications from MET, Internship, TASA Asia, EAE Business School and Manhattan Institute of Management.
- uMBA opens the doors to the following career options after the completion of the course.
- Market/ Business Analyst, International Sales Manager, Global Logistic Manager, Global Finance or Operations Manager, International Project Manager or Strategic Advisor. Participants can venture in any of the sector of their choice among Risk Management, Forex Management, Investment Banking, Corporate Finance, etc.
So, if you are looking for a one-of-kind MBA or PGDM programme, MET will definitely be an alluring choice. Interested candidates can click here to visit the official website of the institute for more details on the other engaging and modern management programmes of the MET.

subset: commoncrawl


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Hawksworth Wood Primary School Early Years Foundation Stage
Our Intent
At Hawksworth Wood we believe that children's early learning experiences deeply affect their future physical, cognitive, emotional and social development. We understand that building secure relationships with children and their families at the early stage is key to understanding how we can maximise learning opportunities for each and every child in our setting. We are fully committed to taking the time to understand and follow children's interests and provide a rich curriculum that supports learning, consolidates and deepens knowledge and ensures that children achieve their next steps.
Both our indoor and outdoor provision is carefully planned and demonstrates a thorough knowledge and understanding of the way in which our children learn. We aim to prepare our children to achieve the Early Learning Goals at the end of Reception and ensure that all children have made good or better progress from their individual starting points.
Our ultimate goal is to prepare our children with the knowledge and skills needed for the next stage of their learning journey in KS1. This is so important as we know that what our children learn in these vital first years of life will stay with them forever and that optimising children's early education is the best investment we can make in ensuring their future success.
As a team we follow the EYFS curriculum and ensure that the learning opportunities and experiences we provide are clearly linked to both the Prime and Specific areas of learning.
• Personal, Social and Emotional Development,
• Communication and Language
• Physical Development
• Literacy
• Mathematics
• Understanding the World
We begin each year by looking at the individual needs of our children and their different starting points and with this information in mind, we are then able to plan a range of broad and balanced learning experiences.
We place huge importance on the development of children's vocabulary and ensure that staff are skilled in assessing early speech and language development and have the expertise to support children in being able to communicate their thoughts and ideas and explore the meaning of new words.
Staff use their knowledge of the Characteristics of Effective Learning to ensure that they plan appropriate activities and organise their provision in a way that demonstrates a clear understanding of the way in which our children are motivated to learn. We know that all children are unique, with their own individual fascinations and it is for this reason that we believe a balance of child and teacher led activities is crucial in order for our children to become fully engaged and excited by their learning.
We feel that effective provision both indoors and out is based on a clear understanding of what we want our children to learn and how we plan to achieve this. We want our children to be independent in accessing quality play-based experiences that encourage them to notice, question and wonder.
We use a combination of online learning journals and work in books to celebrate children's achievements, record observations, assess and track children's progress and to identify their next steps.
Effective interactions between staff and children and regular home/school communication ensures that our curriculum planning and provision is flexible and continuously adapted to meet the needs of all learners. Regular parent's meetings, stay and play sessions and workshops ensure that parents are kept up to date with their children's development and progress and are fully aware of how they can continue to support their children's learning outside of school.


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Customer Testimonials
Thanks for putting together such a great offer! You knew exactly what to do! You two are awesome and have been very patient with me. Sonia
"Dan and Denise were fantastic in helping us sell my parents' home. The sale went thru quickly and my parents are happy knowing a young couple will now be building memories in the home they had for over 50 years." #downsizinghomes #homessoldinminnetonka #mortensonrealtygroup #greatermidwestrealty… Continue Reading "Jeanette H. 5/5 Stars"
"Thanks so much for all your patience, time, and hard work that you gave us. We are truly grateful for all that you've done for us. Sincerely, Denny and Cinda
Brian Conde reviewed D&D Mortenson Realty — 5 star December 15, 2017 · I have worked With Dan and Denise on several property sales and purchases. I have been very happy with their work. I would highly recommend them. Feel free to ask them for my contact information if… Continue Reading ""I would highly recommend them.""
Jeaniene Long Cushenbery reviewed D&D Mortenson Realty — 5 star December 14, 2017 · I worked with Dan when I purchased my first home using my VA benefits and felt I was in good hands being he was a fellow veteran himself, and he walked me through the whole… Continue Reading ""I sold my home way above my list price!""
Jeff Frederiksen reviewed D&D Mortenson Realty — 5 star December 13, 2017 · I have known Dan for more than 30-years! He's one of those guys who's exceptionally proficient at pretty much anything he puts his mind to. With that in mind, both him and his wife Denise are… Continue Reading ""They're incredibly personable.""


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There are endless suggestions these days about how to improve your life. So many suggestions, in fact, that I personally get overwhelmed and either shut down completely or get sucked into the trap of feeling like I'm not doing enough.;
Instead of focusing on specific things to add to your how-to-live-my-best-life to-do list, I've worked with Talkspace therapist Joanna Filidor, LMFT, to compile six simple shifts you can make in less than a week to prioritize your mental health. Choose the ones that resonate with you and ditch the rest. The goal is not to go through the motions as a means of overachieving but to dial into whichever practices best suit you and your needs.
1. Slow Down
We live in a culture of constant busyness, where more is often seen as better. When it comes to taking care of your mental health, however, sometimes the best thing to do is slow down and simplify your life. I've noticed both personally and among the people with whom I work, there's often this fixation on improving your life when, in reality, it is the strain of striving for over-achievement that is at the core of your suffering. Filidor recommends slowing down so you can learn to enjoy the present moment instead of rushing to accomplish the next goal.
Ask Yourself: What does it mean for you to be still and what challenges do you face in the process of staying still?
2. Create Your Own Definition of Success
It's common to maintain whatever definition of success you internalized as a child from your parents, teachers, and mass media. For example, I learned that hard work, good grades, and a high-paying job all contributed to a successful life. The problem is, we often craft our lives around trying to achieve a version of success that we might not even agree with once we get there. Filidor suggests taking some time to explore what messages you received growing up about the definition of success and how to achieve it so you can begin to create a version of success that works for you.
Ask Yourself: What does success mean to you and how have you been told to achieve it?
3. Practice Patience
When I first started therapy years ago, I was antsy to see benefits right away. I wanted the quick fix and was sorely disappointed to learn that change takes time. Sometimes a lot of time. Filidor finds it helpful to set expectations with clients right off the bat and reminds them it's unreasonable to expect an instant change when a particular behavior took root over many years.
Ask Yourself: What do you expect to happen in therapy? How quickly do you believe you will begin to see change? What kind of change are you expecting?
4. Get Clear on Your Values
Knowing where to start can feel overwhelming when beginning with a new therapist, especially if the whole process is new for you. What do you bring up first? Your negative self-talk? Your relationship with others? Your current job situation? Your insomnia? According to Filidor, getting clear on your values is one of the first steps in prioritizing which areas of your life are most critical to work on first. She finds it's helpful to have clients write a list of everything they wish to improve, prioritizing from most important to least important, to get a sense of where their own values lie.
Ask Yourself: What do you believe is the most important area of your life to improve and how consistent is that with your values?
5. Do More of What Lights You Up
There are a ton of different exercises and tools you can add to your self-care toolbox such as: meditation, relaxation practices, somatic exercises, energy healing, and relationship-building activities. However, the simple answer is — do more of what lights you up. What might be relaxing and recharging for one person might not be for someone else. For example, I tend to go out in nature when I feel ungrounded whereas others would prefer to take a bath instead.
Ask Yourself: Which activities light you up and give you a renewed sense of energy?
6. Lean Into Support
It's hard to make meaningful change in your life all on your own, which is why learning to accept that you may need support from time to time and that support is important to everyone's personal growth journey.
In addition to therapy, Filidor has a few go-to recommendations for people who are on the hunt for ways to improve their life in less than a week:
- Book: The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown PhD, LMSW
- Book: Ten Percent Happier by Dan Harris
- Podcast: On Being with Krista Tippett
Despite reading an impressive amount of self-help books, attending numerous personal development workshops, becoming a yoga teacher, and going to graduate school to study clinical psychology, I can say with certainty that therapy has been far and away the most helpful and consistent way I've been able to improve my life. I used to be embarrassed that I saw a therapist — like it was some sort of weakness — but it's now my most treasured hour of the week. I think if everyone had a therapist, like they do a primary care doctor, the world would be a happier and more peaceful place.
Talkspace articles are written by experienced mental health-wellness contributors; they are grounded in scientific research and evidence-based practices. Articles are extensively reviewed by our team of clinical experts (therapists and psychiatrists of various specialties) to ensure content is accurate and on par with current industry standards.
Our goal at Talkspace is to provide the most up-to-date, valuable, and objective information on mental health-related topics in order to help readers make informed decisions.
Articles contain trusted third-party sources that are either directly linked to in the text or listed at the bottom to take readers directly to the source.


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Climate observatory ASIM on ISS
55.766933264484, 12.552386145845
The Atmosphere-Space Interactions Monitor (ASIM) is a climate observatory for the International Space Station (ISS). It is developed by the ASIM consortium for ESA. The Technical University of Denmark is leading the scientific advisory board to ESA and Terma A/S is the prime contractor under ESA for the payload development. ASIM was launched April 2nd, 2018. The ASIM mission main scientific objective is to study the correlation between Transient Luminous Events (TLE) and Terrestrial Gamma Ray Bursts (TGF) which occur in the upper atmosphere above thunderstorms. This is achieved by the two instruments, one optical instrument for observing TLEs and one X and Gamma Ray instrument for observing TGFs.


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Keeping things short and sweet today, with a head-to-toe neutral outfit I wore this past weekend. This shawl collar coat is getting lots of wear lately… I love it! The coat is less than $50 and comes in ten colors, including black, charcoal and wine. (I'm wearing the 'stone' color, for reference.) Thanks so much for stopping by — hope you're having a great week!
Update: It looks like the boohoo.com site is down… If you like the coat as much as I do, you can find it here by searching: 'Kate Shawl Collar Coat' 🙂
Boohoo 'Kate' Shawl Collar Coat (c/o) enjoy 30% off today with code TREATS || J.Crew White Skinny Cords || J.Crew Suede Booties (similar here and here) || White Blouse (similar) || Céline 'Audrey' Sunglasses || Pearl Earrings || Link Bracelet (c/o) || Bobbi Brown 'Pink Raspberry' Lip Color || Shu Umera 'Art of Hair' Texture Spray (perfect for top knots)


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By Absolute E-Z UpProducts
September 21, 2015 - Absolute E-Z Up® (AEUP) has diversified its product offering with the launch of the Transport Dolly™, a towable trailer with a capacity of 500 lbs.
At just 30" wide, an overall length of 68-3/4", and a ground clearance of 8", the Transport Dolly can easily be towed to move more materials throughout any jobsite, whether it's used to pick warehouse stock, transport parts to shipping or deliver components to work stations for 'just in time' manufacturing.
The Transport Dolly is designed to be towed by the AEUP ISP-11™ industrial stock picker, and when combined with the ISP-11's 200 lb capacity tray and the 249 lb capacity cargo hood, operators can move 949 lbs of material or inventory in one trip, increasing productivity and profits.
Constructed with high grade steel and powder-coated paint, and featuring a diamond plated floor, the Transport Dolly is built to withstand even the most demanding work sites. With its quick connect/disconnect system and safety coupler, the Transport Dolly is designed for easy, and safe, use.
Designed and manufactured by AEUP, the Transport Dolly is in stock and available for immediate delivery.
For more information, contact AEUP at 843.388.2556 or visit www.absoluteezup.com.
About Absolute E-Z Up®
Backed by nearly 30 years of industry experience, AEUP's mission is to deliver the most dependable, safest access equipment available with the lowest life-cycle costs. AEUP is based in Charleston, S.C., and is the exclusive North, Central and South American distributor of Bravi access equipment.
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The unionised working
class in large industries and
organisations was almost completely dismantled through structural adjustment programme of neo-liberal economic policy by 1990s and thus the objective foundation of left politics weakened. The Soviet Russia collapsed in 1989 and with this the socialist dream for a soviet-styled economic model also collapsed. The effect of these two-fold historical changes caused the retreat of the left from world politics. The world-wide rise of identity movement under the leadership of bourgeois section of the diverse identities pushed the defeated working class into backstage and the working class movement became contingent to the identity movement. But along with the neo-liberal economy reaching to its dead end the identity movement under the leadership of petty and proto bourgeoisie is also reaching to cul de sac. The rising protest of the large section of the populace who are ostracised and excluded is gradually taking a working class dimension. From the occupy wall street movement post sub-prime crisis and the present Gilets Jaunes or Yellow Vests movement in France and its reverberation throughout Europe reveal the participation of the new working class as a dominant force.
The history of capitalism reveals that the uneven development is ingrained in capitalist economy. The backwardness of Assam is hinged on its backward productive forces in agricultural rural economy. Assam's agricultural economy is mostly a small peasant economy and the small peasants are Raiyats directly under the state Government, but the patriarchal peasant could not be transformed into bourgeois peasant mainly because of the failure of the peasant movement in seventies to understand the political aspect of the movement for a radical democratic restructuring of the state. Due to the ignorance and prejudice of the peasant masses, they were swayed by the chauvinist movement led by rural petty bourgeoisie and regional proto bourgeoisie in late seventies and early eighties. The last year's economic survey revealed that Assam is the least irrigated state and the Government report said that state is likely to be hotter by 2.2 degree centigrade and extreme rainfall, drought and more floods by 2050. The report says that observations indicate that over the last 60 years (1951 to 2010), the annual mean temperature in the state has increased by 0.59 degree centri-grade and annual rainfall has decreased by 2.96 mm every year. The report has warned of more frequent and severe floods, higher losses and damage in the forestry sector, and increasing freshwater scarcity. It also points out that the effects of such drastic climate change will be felt most strongly by the poor. It indicates the skewed development model that being followed in a backward state like Assam.
The final defeat of the peasant movement in late seventies sealed the fate of Assam's agricultural economy and hindered the development of agricultural economy to follow the peasant capitalist path. Due to the penetration of the finance capital into the rural economy during the neoliberal phase of development and simultaneous withdrawal of the Government expenditure in agricultural development promoted the cash-crop production for private agri-business in limited scale and ruined the small farmer economy. And this turned the majority of the rural population into wage workers who participate in the developmental activity under the tutelage of global capital—the reserve army of labour thus produced through displacement tries their luck as migrant workers within and outside the state. This phenomenon is most prominent in lower Assam than in Upper Assam.
Within a short period of time after BJP's coming to power in both the state and centre, this new working class had been disillusioned and started losing faith not only in the ruling party but also in the state institutions. Assam was witnessing strikes and demonstrations by the diverse section of the working class including the modern and mental workers frequently, and the media was agog with the reports of police action against the demonstrators in state's power centre in Dispur. Instead of theoretical and programmatic endeavour to transform the reformist agenda of the working class into a political battle, the Assamese section of all variants of left in Assam barring few exceptions along with petty bourgeois democrats have sided with the chauvinist camp this time while the dissident voices were muted and thus betrayed the cause of working class emancipation for a democratic struggle. The BJP and Sangh Parivar acted as hobgoblin to use the NRC process to orchestrate state sponsored violence against the minorities. The phantasmagoria of the revisionist left-nationalists are built around their oft-repeated renderings like "Assamese language and culture are at stake due to the burden of the migrants", "Save Assam from being Tripura or Kashmir" and this diabolical political discourse were designed to hit the Achilles heels in Assam's socio-polity to widen the rift between the working class belonging to diverse communities. This vulnerability on linguistic fault-lines has been inherited from colonial legacy which disrupted the assimilation through social interaction and autonomous development of social relation of production. British colonial power did this to ensure their administrative control over the vast expanse of natural resources for their loot and plunder. The post-independence Assamese regional ruling class in tow with national big bourgeoisie has been treading the same path of disruption by their majoritarian politics of coercion with similar economic interest. The reproduction of social metabolism is controlled through unchanged property relations. It was inevitable because the essence of the historical continuity of the state is to forcefully protect the decision making power of the ruling class with all its might at its disposal—the 1947 marked the discontinuity by replacing the colonial power with Indian comprador big bourgeois-landlord ruling class who shared power with regional bourgeois or proto bourgeois class as junior partner.
The left-liberal nationalist created an aporia over their role on exclusionary politics by not opposing the divisive politics swaddled in categorising the citizens as original-inhabitants (OI) and non-original inhabitants (NOI) in NRC process. The feeble voice of protest from the left-liberal nationalist circle against the administrative harassment and tribunal process for D-voters that caused many suicides and pauperisation of the citizens instilled a sense of distrust in the minds of the linguistically and religiously ostracised minority communities. Thus these nationalists got trapped in overarching fascist design of the Sangh. They did not take stand against the dismantling of the democratic content of the citizenship act 1955 and never demanded to restore the civilisational norms of 'citizenship by birth' which was withdrawn by BJP regime in 2003 and thus their message against the unconstitutional citizenship Bill was mired with anti-minoritism anti-immigrant biases. This was inevitable because the democratic identity movement cannot be built on the class-power of bourgeoisie who are deeply entrenched in global capitalist chain, it must be built under the working class leadership in this era of imperialism. Under any circumstances, the unity of working class must be the yardstick to ensure the victory of any democratic movement. The anti-bill movement has lost the plot because they were theoretically playing at the hands of the fascists who were bent on using this bill as a tool for religious polarisation, neither for providing citizenship to Bengali Hindu Dalit migrants nor for settling the Hindus from Bangladesh in Assam. During this anti-Bill movement, Buddhist Chakmas in Mizoram, the Bengali Hindus in Assam and Meghalaya were apprehensive of chauvinist attack, Muslims apprehended that this might be turned against them any time by the anti-muslim chauvinist camp within the movement, and in its continuation, the chauvinist demand of withdrawal of the policy of giving PRC to Assamese indigenous tribes got momentum in Arunachal Pradesh under the leadership of the constituent of anti-bill nationalist conglomerate. The possibility of building resistance movement against the fascists by ensuring the working class unity and upholding federalism has been lost. But has the objective reality changed? Has the working class shed their demand and postponed the agitation once and for all. Can the democratic aspiration of the Assamese middle class be revived?
The answers to the first two questions are in negative and third one is affirmative. Because nothing has changed structurally, the defeat of anti-Bill movement was ingrained in the ideological plank, and the apparent camp division within the communal and chauvinist forces has now vanished. The defeat of the working class for a democratic movement is due to the ideological bankruptcy of the left and liberal camp. This working class can rise again soon with their protest and demonstration and hoist the flag of democracy for building resistance if the left and liberal can do the course correction. What are those corrective measures?
Firstly, and must categorically say that people have accepted the year 1971 as a cut off year in the specific context of Assam to establish peace within various communities at a tumultuous time. People must categorically oppose the division of citizens on the pretext of original and non-original and uphold the democratic and civilisational criteria of providing citizenship by birth. People must demand that all the voters of 2014 voter-list should be prima facie considered as citizens. Let the state prove it otherwise. It's a blot on democracy where citizens are divided on the basis of original and non-original, the essence of which is similar to the fascist design to divide the citizens on religious line. Will the state be held accountable for the suicide of more than forty people and pauperisation of hundreds of families through skewed Tribunal process, harassment during on-going NRC process and dehumanisation of the human being through D-voters and detention camp? It is indeed a more potent fascistic behaviour of state than the citizenship bill with religious connotation.
Secondly, the idea of resolving the aspiration of the Assamese identity to remain as a dominant linguistic nationality in the state of Assam with the help of state power and state machinery is undemocratic and chauvinistic. The social interaction within the realm of social relation of production can only ensure the democratic path of flourishing of the Assamese language and the building of Assamese nationality. The centralisation of power in Delhi hinders the smooth transformation of the social relation of production to facilitate expansion of Assamese language and culture through social interaction. The social polity of Assam is in the midst of an intense contradiction between forces of modernisation and antediluvian forces. But the Assamese regional bourgeoisie and the middle class prefer to surrender to the forces of centralisation and to resolve the linguistic aspiration through coercion of other linguistic groups. This chauvinist mindset which was visible during the anti-Bill agitation of the left nationalists needs to be changed and for that, the broadest possible united front of all democratic forces must be formed on the common agenda on citizen's rights, democracy and federalism. It is unfortunate that the Assamese nationalists thought it more urgent to fight against the migration than the withdrawal of special status category of Assam by the centre.
Vol. 51, No. 40, Apr 7 - 13, 2019


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Neuro Physio
Podcast: A Neuro Physio Podcast
Hosts: Erin Bicknell and Matt Wingfield
Category: Health & Fitness
Sub-Category: Careers, Medicine
First Episode: 2020
Welcome to A Neuro Physio Podcast. Erin and Matt chat openly with experienced people in the neuro physio world. We highlight the personal story and career pathway of our guests as they share clinical pearls applicable to modern neurological physio practice.
Website: A Neuro Physio Podcast
Connect: X-Twitter and Facebook
Listen: Google or Apple or Spotify or RSS


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Texas: San Marcos Considering Prohibiting Pet Stores from Selling Dogs from Breeders on 2/1
San Marcos, Texas has proposed an ordinance that will prohibit pet stores from sourcing dogs from licensed breeders. This ordinance will limit pet choice and consumer protections for San Marcos area families seeking a dog that fits their needs and lifestyle. Retail pet sales bans/ restrictions limit consumer protections and choice, while doing nothing to […]https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/texas-san-marcos-considering-prohibiting-pet-stores-selling-dogs-breeders-2-1/ | January 28, 2022
Missouri Update: Continue Encouraging Committee to Support Breed-Neutral Laws
The Missouri House Local Government Committee considered two bills on Thursday, January 27, that would prohibit local municipalities from enacting breed-specific laws in the state. During the hearing several members of the committee expressed concerns about prohibiting breed-specific laws. It is important for clubs and those who participate in dog events in Missouri to contact […]https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/missouri-update-continue-encouraging-committee-support-breed-neutral-laws/ | January 28, 2022
Virginia: Update on Bills Regarding Civil Liability Related to Dangerous Dogs and Rabies Vaccine Exemption
At its Wednesday, January 26, 2022 meeting, the Virginia House Agriculture, Conservation, and Natural Resources Committee's Agriculture Subcommittee took action on two bills that had the potential to impact some dog owners. See previous alert. The committee action was as follows: House Bill 467 – This bill would amend the Code of Virginia by […]https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/virginia-update-bills-regarding-civil-liability-related-dangerous-dogs-rabies-vaccine-exemption/ | January 28, 2022
NH Update: Bills Negatively Impacting Hunting Dogs Fail in Committees
This week, two New Hampshire House Committees voted down HB 1308 and HB 1310, bills negatively impacting hunting dogs that the American Kennel Club (AKC) actively opposed. The near unanimous rejection of these bills sends a strong message of continued support for training hunting dogs, hosting field trials, and engaging in canine sporting activities in […]https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/nh-update-bills-negatively-impacting-hunting-dogs-fail-committees/ | January 28, 2022
Illinois: Bills Impacting Animal Ownership, Other Dog Issues to be Considered on Tuesday (2/1)
Bills impacting animal ownership, basic animal care, and service animals will be considered in Illinois on Tuesday, February 1. Those who live or participate in events in Illinois are strongly encouraged to contact the House Judiciary-Criminal Committee using the information below, and also to create witness slips prior to the hearing by clicking on this […]https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/illinois-bills-impacting-animal-ownership-dog-issues-considered-tuesday-2-1/ | January 28, 2022
Virginia: Senate Subcommittee to Consider Pet Shop Spay/Neuter Bill Tomorrow (1/27)
The Virginia Senate Agriculture, Conservation, and Natural Resources Committee's (ACNR) Companion Animal Subcommittee is scheduled to consider a bill at its 9:00am meeting tomorrow (Thursday, January 27, 2022) that would prohibit a pet shop from selling a dog or cat unless it has first been spayed or neutered. Senate Bill 89 would amend existing Code […]https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/virginia-senate-subcommittee-consider-pet-shop-spay-neuter-bill-tomorrow-1-27/ | January 26, 2022
Missouri Update: Ask Committee to Not Support Spay/Neuter Amendments to Positive BSL Bills
The Missouri House Local Government Committee is scheduled to consider two bills on Thursday, January 27, that would prohibit local municipalities from enacting breed-specific laws in the state. As introduced, AKC strongly supports these bills, as stated in our previous alert. There is discussion, however, that amendments may be proposed that would place significant restrictions […]https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/missouri-update-ask-committee-not-support-spay-neuter-amendments-positive-bsl-bills/ | January 25, 2022
Virginia Information: House Agriculture Sub Committee to Consider Two Dog Bills Tomorrow (1/26)
The Virginia House Agriculture, Conservation, and Natural Resources Committee's (ACNR) Agriculture Subcommittee is scheduled to consider two bills at its 4:00pm meeting tomorrow (Wednesday, January 26, 2022) that have the potential to impact some dog owners. Those wishing to submit comments to the ACNR Agriculture Subcommittee may do so by Noon tomorrow, January 26, 2022 […]https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/virginia-information-house-agriculture-sub-committee-consider-two-dog-bills-tomorrow-1-26/ | January 25, 2022
Rhode Island Alert: House Judiciary to Hear Bills Affecting Dog Owners Tomorrow, January 25
Tomorrow, January 25, 2022, the Rhode Island House Judiciary Committee is accepting testimony on multiple bills impacting dog owners (agenda). Text of bills impacting dog owners are embedded in the links below. AKC Government Relations (AKC GR) encourages Rhode Island residents to express opposition as follows: ANIMAL ABUSER REGISTRY ACT – H. 6624 would establish […]https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/rhode-island-alert-house-judiciary-hear-bills-affecting-dog-owners-tomorrow-january-25/ | January 24, 2022
NH Alert: Multiple Bill Hearings Concerning to Dog Owners Scheduled Next Week
Next week, the New Hampshire House Committee on Criminal Justice and Public Safety will hear public testimony on bills the American Kennel Club (AKC) believes are well-intentioned, but concerning as currently written. SERIOUS CONCERN: HB 1310 would prohibit hunters from discharging a firearm in the direction of a building, livestock, or pets within their eyesight. […]https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/nh-alert-multiple-bill-hearings-concerning-dog-owners-scheduled-next-week/ | January 21, 2022


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Plantronics BackBeat Go Sports Tangle-free Headset for $99
BackBeat Go is Plantronics smallest and lightest wireless earbud at 13 grams, or "about the weight of three nickels." The cordless rig includes a pair of earbuds linked with a flat tangle-free cord, with inline controls to adjust volume and an integrated mic for calls. The Bluetooth-enabled Go can sync up with one device at a time,with 4.5 hours of listening and talk time or 10 hours of standby with a single charge. Digital noise reduction and echo canceling play into the call experience, while the "deep, rich, stereo sound" means the earbuds are equally suited for leisure. Sound good to you? You can snag your own set for a cool $100 by clicking through to the source link below.
Discrete Wireless Earbuds for Music, Calls and More
Santa Cruz, Calif. – April 3, 2012 – When you are on the go, you want to listen to your tunes without being tangled or tied to your Smartphone or music player. Plantronics (NYSE: PLT) today announced its smallest, lightest, wireless earbuds available, the BackBeat® GO. Now music lovers, mobile gamers, and podcast and video fans can listen to their Bluetooth® enabled device, in stereo, all without the hassle of cords.
The BackBeat Go boasts the ideal combination of style, premium sound, comfort and convenience all with the simplicity of wireless earbuds. Made for use with smartphones, tablets and MP3 players, the extremely compact and lightweight BackBeat GO includes deep, rich, stereo sound, noise reduction technology for improved call clarity and inline controls that allow you to take calls, skip tracks, and adjust volume all at your fingertips.
Lori Langona, director of consumer marketing at Plantronics said, "Music lovers want to take their music with them everywhere they go, but they don't want to get tangled up in their corded earbuds. The BackBeat GO provides wireless freedom whether your music player is in your pocket, in your backpack or just out of reach."
The BackBeat GO features:
– A lightweight, compact design weighting just 13 grams or about the weight of three nickels
– Up to 4.5 hours of listening or talk time and 10 hours of standby time
– A2DP for audio streaming
– Digital noise reduction for improved call quality and built-in echo cancelling
Pricing and Availability
The BackBeat GO is available now for $99.99 at Amazon.com, select Best Buy and Best Buy Mobile stores, BestBuy.com and Plantronics.com; and coming soon to AT&T, RadioShack, and other select retailers nationwide.


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In 2018, over 10 million people were arrested for for a wide variety of offenses. Having a criminal record can have serious ramifications on nearly every aspect of your life. While a defense attorney might not be necessary in some instances, there are others where it is far too risky to fight a charge on your own. Let's take a look at seven times where hiring a criminal defense attorney is all but essential.
1. You're Facing Drug Charges
There is a long list of drugs that are illegal at both the state and federal level. If you are involved with illicit drugs at any level, including cultivating them, distributing them, trafficking them, possessing them, or using them, you're at risk of facing serious penalties.
Depending on what charges you're facing and whether they are state or federal charges, you could be looking at some serious jail time.
How does hiring a criminal defense attorney help with drug charges? They will look into every aspect of your case and will be able to prove whether an illegal or unlawful search and seizure was performed, there is evidence missing from the seizure, the defendent was forcefully made to carry or hold drugs for another party, or if the drug paraphernalia or drugs belonged to another individual.
2. You're Facing Assault and Battery Charges
If you've been accused of assault and battery and facing charges, don't try to go it along. If you defend yourself, you increase the likelihood that you'll face serious jail time.
How a defense attorney will help you in this case depends on the specifics of your case. It's possible that they could argue that you acted in self-defense, you were defending your property, you were defending other people, and in some states, that there was voluntary consent.
3. You're Facing Alcohol Charges
Whether you've been arrested for public intoxication, an open container, being a minor in possession of alcohol, or a DUI, you'll want a defense attorney to defnd your case.
The most serious of these charges is by far a DUI. For this, you need to find a criminal defense attorney in West Palm Beach. Driving while intoxicated is incredibly dangerous, and the court will respond with the expectation that you put your own life as well as the lives of others in danger.
Facing alcohol related charges can also lead you to lose a professional license you have or make it impossible for you to get one in the future. Alcohol-related charges can impact other aspects of your life, so you want to be sure you're properly defended.
4. You're Facing Financial Crimes or Fraud Charges
You'll want to hire a defense attorney that specializes in white collar crime if you've been arrested for fraud or financial crimes.
A few examples of this type of crime include:
- Wire fraud
- Insurance fraud
- Forgery
- Credit/debit card fraud
- Bribery
- Embezzlement
- Extortion
- Mortgage fraud
- Securities fraud
- Racketeering/RICO
- Tax evasion/fraud
- Money laundering
- Identity theft
The penalties for financial crimes or fraud can include fines, asset forfeiture, imprisonment, and disgorgement.
How Can an Attorney Help With Your Asset Forfeiture Case?
An reputable attorney specializing in asset forfeiture cases can help in a variety of ways. They can advise you on the best course of action to take and represent you in court. There are many different types of attorneys who specialize in different areas of law. You must find an attorney who practices criminal law if your case is criminal. If your case is a civil matter, then you will need to find one with experience in civil asset forfeiture law.
5. You're Facing Homicide Charges
In order for homicide to be a criminal offense, the prosecution has to be able to prove that the defendant was negligent or had willful intent. Defense attorneys will have a wide variety of resources and be knowledgeable about the legal system in order to defend your case better than you ever could all on your own.
Different states have different classifications for homicide crimes. These may include first degree murder, second degree murder, voluntary manslaughter, and involuntary manslaugther. Depending on the type of homicide you're being accused of, the penalties can range in the length of the prison sentence and opportunities for parole.
6. You're Facing Theft Charges
There are two main kinds of theft: petty theft and grand theft. Whether a theft falls into one category or the other will vary between states. It depends on the type of stolen property and its worth.
What can a defense attorney do to defend you from theft charges? While it depends on the specifics of your case, some examples are:
- Proving that the defendent had a right of ownership
- Displaying that the stolen property was returned: this might not get the carges dropped, but can make the defendent more sympathetic to the prosecutor
- Use entrapment as a defense to show that the defendent was coerced into commiting the crime by another individual
Both misdemeanor and felony theft can result in hefty fines and imprisonment. This is not a time you want to get caught without a defense attorney.
7. When You're Facing Any Other Criminal Charge
Getting arrested and charged for any criminal offense is serious business. If you don't have a defense attorney, you could end up paying fines, serving time in jail, or facing other penalties that you might otherwise not have to.
Are you looking for a Minnesota defense lawyer? Check out this attorney.
Hiring a Defense Attorney Could Change the Outcome of Your Case and Life in These Instances
Lawyers can get a bad rap in our culture. This is because of a perception that lawyers are too expensive or unethical.
In reality, though, a good defense attorney can completely change the outcome of your case. If you're looking for tips for hiring a criminal defense attorney when you're worried about the financial aspect, look for a lawyer who won't charge you unless you win.
Did you find this article about seven times you need a defense attorney helpful? If so, be sure to check out the rest of our blog for more informative and useful content!
Rene Bennett is a graduate of New Jersey, where he played volleyball and annoyed a lot of professors. Now as Zobuz's Editor, he enjoys writing about delicious BBQ, outrageous style trends and all things Buzz worthy.


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KyraBridal worked off pictures and drawings I had sent them and did a great job, especially because I am not a seamstress and had no pattern to send… they did a great job and were wonderfully flexible. :) The sweetheart neckline is heavily beaded and scatters as it continues down the torso to the asymmetrical dropped-waist line.The front of the skirt has no beading save for two diamante details, one on each hip and one dropped lower than the other. :lol:
Picking The Moh/best Man
OttawaBride2017 posted a topic in Wedding Etiquette, Traditions, to dosSince both FI and I have close friends and don't have a particular best friend, we've decided to have a competition to choose the MOH/Best man at our resort. We're planning to have it at the AI resort during our wedding week and coupling people together to do multiple competitions until there is one couple standing. I want both mental and physical challenges. I was thinking of having a flip cup competition, some kind of logical puzzle to solve, and maybe a picture scavenger hunt, they offer paddle boarding at my resort so was thinking of jousting on it for the final competition but may be too risky.. Anyone have any suggestions?
I know this topic is going to strike a chord with many brides… We are getting married in Riviera Maya. We decided to have no bridal party as our guests are spending a great deal of money to travel to Mexico and we don't want our friends and family to spend more on bridal party costs. I'm inviting many of my girlfriends/sisters to join me in the bridal suite the morning of the wedding- a care-free and fun getting ready party for everyone! I know the resort provides a day of coordinator for the wedding. What I'm thinking is I may ask one of my best girlfriends to act as our day of coordinator, and be the resort's "go-to" for all questions regarding our wedding. I have a very special friend in mind; she is coordinating with several other girlfriends are working together to plan the shower and bachelorette party and she keeps asking me "how can I help?" I'm not expecting this person to help me pee or fetch things for me or be my "bridal b*tch" – I would just be asking her to make some decisions or answer questions from the resort/guests if needed. My FI and I both totally trust this person to make decisions on our behalf and she'll ensure we don't get hit with any fees or surprises. And honestly, I can't imagine there'll be much since the resort has the whole 'wedding day execution' down pat. I am absolutely planning to give her an amazing gift, to thank her for her help and include her in the program. (I've thought about paying a portion of her travel, or something similar) I cannot handle the term "personal attendant" because she is not! She's an amazing woman who we know can make calm decisions under pressure, who is organized, super friendly and just overall amazing. She'd be a Bridesmaid if we were having a bridal party, but that's not an option. Has anyone done something like this in the past? Any ideas on what to call her?
Bella Bridesmaids
tiffanyt posted a topic in Destination Wedding Dresses, Wedding Attire & ringsHi ladies, Just curious if any of you used the store Bella Bridesmaids for your bridesmaids dresses? Or if you are considering it? I have to use them because the dresses I want my girls to wear are only sold there in my area or else I would have to order them directly from the designer which is a little more expensive. I ask only because my experience hasn't been that great so far so I' hoping it will get better.
We know planning the proper wedding is often time consuming and irritating , you want everything to be flawless, and rightly so! What if there was a place you and your beloved one might visit to network with other engaged couples similarly as many wedding business experts? If this feels like something you'll have an interest in, it's time you visit one of our Bridal Show New Jersey. We've bridal events throughout the year catering to thousands of engaged couples and showcasing the services and products of many wedding professionals. Exhibitors include a wide range of professionals offering services such as photography, hair & make up, gown design and tailoring, floral arrangements, carriage or limousine services, and much more. email us at - bridalexpobillinfo[at]gmail.com or visit our website - bridalexpoandtradeshow[dot]com Happy Wedding To You
Bridesmaid Dresses
tiffanyt posted a topic in Destination Wedding Dresses, Wedding Attire & ringsI had my heart set on having my bridesmaids in convertible dresses so that they can tailor the dress to their own personal style and body type. However, I was reading some of the older forums and a couple of the former brides said that convertible dresses are a bad idea for women with a D cup or larger bust. I honestly thought it would be okay but I guess I could be wrong. Out of my 7 bridesmaids, 4 of them have size D or larger cup size, I would hate for them to be uncomfortable. Have any of you come across this as a problem with your bridesmaids? Thanks in advance for your help. This is an example of the type of dress that I am referring to: http://www.nuovavita.com/signature-cocktail-convertible-dress-avail-in-over-20-colors/
Question About My Matron Of Honor
Akfranklin2014 posted a topic in Just venting or funniesMy wedding is a little over 3 months away. I am getting ready to send out invitations and since we have a smaller budget than is usual for a wedding, we're only allowing plus ones for those who are married or have been in a serious relationship for at least a year. The main reason for this is because if they've been together a year, chances are me or my fiancé or both of us have met them more than once and know them enough for them to be at the wedding. My matron of honor lives out of town and I'm getting a room for her and I to share since she's not with anybody right now. This has been the plan since I started planning it. She also agreed to pick up my dad who lives in the same town as her. She and I spoke this morning and I advised her of the plus one situation and reminded her about picking up my dad, a conversation we've had more than once. She tells me she doesn't remember agreeing to pick up my dad and also tells me she was planning on bringing a guy and having a sex filled weekend. Normally I wouldn't care who she's messing with, but this is my wedding. First, the room is only for her and I, so where's he going to stay? Second, my fiancé and I don't want someone neither of us even know, let alone met, at our wedding. (And before you ask, yes, I've discussed this with him). I'm just wondering what to do at this point. I feel like this is time she should be spending with me, at least the day before and morning of. Am I wrong? What should I do or say?
Question: If I'm getting married in a tropical wedding climate, should I opt for airbrush makeup? Answer: According to Styling Trio, a premier Hair & Makeup Agency in Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen: "The answer is YES! Airbrush makeup is a formula designed for face and body, developed expressly for Makeup Artists working in High Definition TV, film, and beauty. The HD airbrush makeup gives the skin not only the perfect look on the wedding day but also the perfect look in the photos as well. Photographers here in the Riviera Maya love airbrush makeup because of the natural look and feel it gives to the skin. Also there is less retouching involved since the airbrushing allows for a more uniform skin. Airbrush makeup holds up very well, it rests on top of the skin, sealing it from outside agents but the skin will still be able to breath and look its most natural. If you are getting married in a tropical environment you must be aware that humid weather can be a nightmare. Precisely the reason why there are specific products to keep your makeup flawless for a minimum of 12hrs and up to 18 hours of holding power! It is important that you look your best throughout the day of photo shooting, ceremony, the dancing and crying! We are aware that airbrush makeup is not the perfect fit for every bride, you have to trust your makeup artist and it is always better if the artist of your choice has first hand experience in tropical climates. An experienced artist will find the best makeup application for your face and skin type. Don't forget the importance of how the product is applied and product choice, after all, this is a tailor made service so it needs to be customized to fit her needs. Here at STRM we specialize in long lasting beauty for your most sacred events. As you can see thanks to the miracle of HD Airbrush makeup, it has become one of favourite tools to date! And we have plenty more tips and tricks up our sleeve." Styling Trio is a Hair & Makeup agency representing talented artists in Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen. Adrian Guerra founded Styling Trio in 2009, with a clear vision and a fantastic team behind him, the agency is the premier choice for brides searching for the best hair stylists and makeup artists in the Riviera Maya. For more information on Styling Trio's hair and makeup services, visit their website at: www.stylingtrio.com - - - If you have a question you'd like us to "Ask the Expert" message me (MarieSamSanchezPhoto) and we'll feature your question and answer on a future post! "Ask the Expert" features commonly asked questions by brides and grooms with answers and insight provided by our very own Best Destination Wedding Forum experts.
Looking for a unique way to ask your closest friend to be a bridesmaid? Don't settle for just a simple phone call, email or a text -- there are plenty of sweet little trinkets that you can give to pop the question! From personalized wine glasses, specially labeled wine bottles, to beautiful custom necklaces to coffee mugs -- asking your best gal pal can be done in a beautiful way that she will never forget! Click here to view a plethora of "asking your bridesmaid" gift ideas offered by Etsy creatives. * Wedding Finds is a BDW feature that will highlight special little finds or ideas that may help you along during your wedding planning journey. If you have a special wedding find to share, feel free to add your suggestions in the comments section! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world.
I Find Baby Showers Wasteful, Irresponsible And Depressing'
carpenter posted a blog entry in carpenter's BlogDEAR MISS MANNERS: Most of our friends, married or not, have embarked on the task of producing children. This means I am invited to multitudes of baby showers, sometimes more than one for each baby. I disapprove of baby showers for two reasons: First, we are in a global resource crisis, and people, especially Americans, should have fewer children; and second, showers encourage wasteful consumerism, when the mother can easily obtain hand-me-downs for her rapidly growing child. I am alarmed at the number of otherwise intelligent people who, despite this being the First World with forms of birth control widely available, still have unplanned pregnancies and make no secret of this fact. The majority of my friends' pregnancies have been associated with shotgun weddings, underwater home mortgages, or conception occurring after the loss of the father's job. For these reasons and others, I am not thrilled when my friends become pregnant. I love my friends, but once they have kids, they fall off the face of the earth. It makes me sad to lose my friends and watch them throw away their promising careers and lives to enter the black hole of babydom. PHOTO convertible bridesmaid dress Given this, it seems inappropriate for me to attend baby showers. My friends are familiar with my views on reproduction. I am happy to help my friends in other ways -- come over and do the household chores for a day, for instance. But is there a polite way to decline to attend a friend's shower? GENTLE READER: Yes. It is: "Thank you so much for the invitation, but I will not be able to attend." Miss Manners notices that being familiar with your views did not deter your friends from having children, so you needn't feel neglectful about refraining from repeating them after the fact. DEAR MISS MANNERS: My sister and brother-in-law are going through a very bitter divorce. We have since found out that he is a liar and a cheater, and a man without honor. There will be times in the future that we are attending the same social function (graduation, wedding, etc.). How do I show my disdain for this man without being considered rude? What if he should approach me to speak? What if he is with someone? What if he is with the woman that has contributed to the breakup of the marriage? GENTLE READER: A divorce, like a funeral, has many mourners but few principals. (Miss Manners has noticed that participants in a divorce sometimes also divest themselves of their principles, but that is a separate topic.) Proper responses can range from a cold aloofness to a deliberate snub, but as your grievance is subsidiary to your sister's, your behavior should follow her lead, without exceeding it in severity. Even then, it must be done quietly, so that your reaction will not attract the attention of other guests. Please remember that your primary obligation at such events is to avoid spoiling them with the fallout from less happy situations. READ MORE kissybridesmaid country bridesmaid dresses
The Best And Worst Dressed Stars At The 2015 Emmy Awards
carpenter posted a blog entry in carpenter's BlogBest dressed Samira Wiley, who plays a tomboy character inOrange is the New Black, looked sublime in a shocking pink cape dress. From prison inmate to screen goddess - we adore this transformation. Naomi Watts did jewelled embellishment perfectly with a simply cut strapless dress falling at the shin, made from two gorgeous fabrics. Jaimie Alexander gets points for eschewing cute and pretty and going for a daring, futuristic Armani Prive gown with full coverage, and degradé sequins that produced a strobe-light effect. Claire Danes, who's been on red carpets since she was 15, played it well, pleasing high-fashion critics as well as red carpet fans. Blue and maroon sequins created an interesting pattern on the shimmering Prada gown, and the hefty metal chain straps made for some seriously edgy hardware. Taylor Schilling, who plays Piper in hit show Orange Is The New Black, looked positively radiant swapping the prison jumpsuit for a lemon-yellow, flowing Stella McCartney gown. There were those who won by playing it safe: Padma Lakshmi looked stunning in a yellow satin Romona Keveza gown that radiated old Hollywood glamour with a classic train. Jessica Paré, who plays Megan Draper in Mad Men,shone in a stunningly elegant strapless gown. While most men go for relatively prudent, well-cut tuxedos, eccentric Scottish American actor Alan Cummings blew them out of the water with a grey three-piece suit, "billowing" voluminous pants, a banknote collage tie, maroon pocket square and umbrella. We salute you, sir. Worst dressed PHOTO peach bridesmaid dresses A shocker in this category was the stunning January Jones in a green Ulyana Sergeenko jumpsuit. These two stylish names should go well together, but they didn't - from the waist brooch to the strange pleated chiffon tail, it was an odd outfit that fell flat. Emma Myles, from Orange is the New Black, also didn't win any points with a black and painted floral print dress that looked like it'd been dragged out from the back of end of the '80s. Fellow cast member Laura Prepon, who we're usually a huge fan of, disappointed with a gown that could have been worn to the recent China-themed New York Met Gala Ball - and that isn't a compliment. Half-embroidered Imperial empress-y top for just the neck and shoulders, and then a fire- engine red classic fishtail gown - what was she thinking? The usually on-point Heidi Klum sported a half-and-half, sunshine yellow Versace gown that said both period drama and mermaid movie. A long, barely there netted skirt with a strategically placed leaf shape that barely covered her modesty, and a single, long, swishy, wizard-like sleeve... it was a head scratcher. Still, with her face and body it almost doesn't matter - you could throw a potato sack on this woman and she would still somehow manage to look incredible. Notably dressed This is the "wow, well will you just look at that" category. Maisie Williams, who plays the precocious Aria in Game of Thrones, went super feminine with a bubblegum strapless pencil dress and a pair of adorable fluffy white sandals - not the kind of look we're used to seeing on her, but we liked this playful take. Who is this new Lady Gaga we're seeing a lot more of? She went completely classic chic with a toned-down, one-shoulder, black Brandon Maxwell gown and a swept back blonde bob. It's a far cry from telephone hats and meat dresses, that's for sure. Some actors are so psychically gifted and ooze such confidence that they make outfits that shouldn't work in theory become red carpet magic. Take Kerry Washington in a sparkly sequinned all-silver Marc Jacobs dress with a thigh slit and '80s shoulders. She's proof that human perfection exists, but we're still not sure she managed to quite pull off this look. Sofia Vergara put her curves to work with a slick, silver strapless gown (we want to know how this woman manages to look so damn siren-y all the time). And then there's Kathryn Hahn, who wore one of the most experimental dresses of the evening - an interesting, asymmetric construction with a voluminous peplum hem on one side. It's a shame that the fabrics looked stolen from grandma's furniture. READ MORE purple bridesmaid dresses
Woman Scatters Pastor'S Wedding
carpenter posted a blog entry in carpenter's BlogAn anticipated happy wedding of Prophet Albert Mensah alias Nana Kofi, Founder of the Jesus Foundation Prayer Ministry at Site 14, Community 1, Tema, rather went sour Wednesday morning when a 20-year-old woman with her three-week-old baby boy disrupted the ceremony. The marriage department of the Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA) became the toast of attraction for most staff of the assembly, passersby and traders at the Tema Central Market when the woman, Ms Mabel Patamia, accompanied by her relations and sympathisers, demanded that the registrar halt the solemn ceremony between the prophet and one Joyce Anima Damptey. Ms Patamia did not even allow the couple to take the vows as she interrupted every pronouncement, prompting the Assistant Marriage Registrar to introduce her to the gathering. The main reason for her action, she told the marriage official, was that she was engaged to Prophet Nana Kofi and has a child with him and that both were preparing to marry sometime this year. The expected happy occasion turned sour as well-wishers and witnesses of the couple looked shocked. They began leaving the premises of the assembly with disappointment. Prophet Nana Kofi was said to have impregnated Ms Patamia when the mother sent her to the church for spiritual healing, as she was alleged to be suffering from spiritual attack. Isaac Ashai Odamtten, Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE) of Tema, who overheard Mabel's persistent screams, quickly intervened to hold a crunch meeting with both parties and the marriage department. PHOTO ivory bridesmaid dresses Mabel Patamia holding her baby and leaving the marriage office TMA together with some sympathisers and relatives Mabel Patamia holding her baby and leaving the marriage office TMA together with some sympathisers and relatives After close to 30 minutes, it was concluded that the assembly would withhold the marriage certificate of the couple till Ms Patamia was dully compensated. The pastor was also to sign an undertaking at the Social Welfare Department that he would cater for the child. Prophet Nana Kofi was later whisked away in a car together with his would-be wife amidst jeers and boos from the crowd. Cynthia Patamia, mother of the dejected lady, narrated to DAILY GUIDE that her daughter entered into a relationship with Prophet Nana Kofi when she sent her for prayers as she was suffering from 'high fever.' She became pregnant and Prophet Nana Kofi was made to perform the initial customary rites to the family. "However, after coming for the list, I never heard from him again until I heard that he had impregnated another member of the church. I confronted him and he told me that he impregnated the woman who she was getting married to," she stated. Cynthia Patamia said to her surprise, she was in the house at Site 5, Community 1, Tema, when news got to her that Prophet Nana Kofi was getting marriage to another woman who was also pregnant for him. According to her, "I quickly called my daughter, some friends and relatives and we went to the assembly to stop them from getting marriage since he cannot take my daughter and me for a ride." Mabel Patamia told DAILY GUIDE that although she was demanding that the marriage should be halted, she had no problem with Prophet Nana Kofi getting married; but was only concerned with the clandestine way he was going about it. Meanwhile, the marriage department of the assembly is said to be in a fix and could face possible legal action if it failed to issue the marriage certificate to them. This is because the couple were said to have gone through all the processes as their names were pasted on the marriage notice board for the expected 21 days and even had additional five days which elapsed before they were booked to come for the solemnisation. READ MORE teal bridesmaid dresses
Celebs, Colour, Couture And All In A Good Cause
carpenter posted a blog entry in carpenter's Blog"We are very happy to support the ISPCC. It is an event that is very close to my heart and all our hearts," Brown Thomas Fashion Director Shelly Corkery told me. "We see those dreadful images of children suffering. The stories can be shocking. The work of the ISPCC is so important to children's lives." Tickets for the ISPCC Brown Thomas Fashion Show are generally sold out soon after they are released in the spring. It's a hugely glamorous affair, near-sorority like in that the crowd (mainly women) nearly all know each other from attending year on year. Thus, since its beginnings, it has become friendlier. "It is one of the biggest launches we do and there is a huge amount of work that goes into it beforehand," Shelly explains. "There aren't that many events left for people to go to anymore, so people look forward to it as an occasion to dress up and see friends they might not have seen in a long time. It is a good fun event." The fun, as well as the good cause, attracts people who generally avoid the limelight. Danielle Ryan, for instance, has attended several times. This year, she sponsored the 'goodie bag' of perfume and novels (mine was The Scarlet Letter, which had me very confused for a time), from her new online store, Roads, also in Brown Thomas. Stars of the screen such as Saoirse Ronan, Louis Walsh, and Amy Huberman were in attendance and they, along with MC for the occasion, Laura Whitmore (dressed in Peter Pilotto), contributed to the glam and feel-good buzz of the event. For me, as well as for all the fashion mavens who attended, the event is a tremendous style-watch occasion, as most of the attendees are committed Brown Thomas international designer room shoppers and are hot to snatch up the latest deliveries of Lanvin, Valentino and Dior. One young woman looked fresh and pretty in a Victoria Beckham summer dress, while another woman was sporting the latest winter look. Such is the style diversity on the day. PHOTO kissybridesmaid country bridesmaid dresses "I think everyone makes a very big effort," Shelly says. "We saw lots of Preen and Dolce & Gabbana and Prada. I thought there were a lot of lovely dresses. It was quite mixed, from summer to winter, too, with people choosing to wear what they loved. We have had a tremendous season already in Brown Thomas. You really feel something is going well in Ireland again." I ask Shelly if are there particular indicators that show things are picking up. "Occasion wear is the indicator for us," Shelly instantly replies. "It has been an incredibly strong season for occasion wear for the first time in a long time. Oscar de la Renta literally sold out in two days. People are buying as soon as the collections drop. Definitely, people are looking for difference - special pieces, investment pieces. They want something different, something new. And they really want colour." A desire for colour in fashion is a trend we have not seen since before 2008. A love of colour, be it in fashion or interior decoration, is always a sign of economic and social optimism. Think of the 1960s, or the 1920s. Brown Thomas's catwalk show was a perfect summation of this season's key trends. Winter white and cream looked sophisticated, modern and beautiful, especially when done by Peter Pilotto, Victoria Beckham and Valentino, which was a big hit with this fashion design-discerning crowd. I adored Preen's eclectic collection; it was sensual and evocative, while still being sophisticated. The audience loved Stella McCartney's sharply cut, bustier-styled, dresses and suiting, Dries Van Noten's new bohemian rhapsody and Balenciaga's modernist dresses. "This season, there is a really big focus on tailoring and couture-like detail and finish," Shelly explains. "The couture side of fashion is something very new. It means structure, it means quality. Garments may be corseted, more structured, more complex. "We also saw a lot of change today," Shelly elaborates. "Erdem has moved its silhouette away from the body and into more trapeze shape dresses and coats. Victoria Beckham has gone from being occasion wear, to more casual and wearable with all her knitwear pieces. Stella was more feminine in her dresses and jumpsuit styles. "Trends-wise - knitwear is huge, especially ribbed knit pieces such as in Celine. Winter white is a big trend - think of Peter Pilotto's white dress, which was so futuristic. One- shoulder and backless looks are also key. The cocoon coat, the Crombie coat. "The big sleeve is an important new detail. Roksanda is the queen of the event dress and Dior for beautiful coats. It is a strong fashion season, with something for everyone." Which is good news for consumers. As is the ISPCC Brown Thomas fashion show for children. READ MORE kissybridesmaid convertible bridesmaid dress


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