content
stringlengths 219
1.01M
| content_length
int64 235
1.01M
|
|---|---|
Due to weak androgenic and anabolic effects, Anavar is one of the safest steroid to use, mainly adored by women's and athletes, because Anavar does not cause weight gain and muscle growth is relatively small, Anavar improves muscle strength and the effects are especially visible in people whose diet is rich in red meat. The advantage of Anavar is that strength gain is very persistent, as it is a weak steroid, Anavar is often combined with other anabolic steroids. Dosage should be about 15 to 30mg per day for beginners and about 30 to 50mg for more advanced. Anavar does not convert to estrogen so you do not have to worry about water retention, gynecomastia or acne and it is not as damaging to the liver as many other oral steroids.
Add to cart
In Stock
Rated 5.00 on the scale 1 - 5 based on 3 customer reviews
Verified purchase
Great product
Great product,I found a lot more strength, I gained weight I had never lifted, I used for 4 weeks, I gained muscle mass of about 3kg.
| 1,048 |
Suzy McCalley earned her certification as a 500 E-RYT yoga instructor at the Asheville Yoga Center. She is the founder and owner of The Breathing Room. Suzy is a wellness coach, certified yoga and reiki practitioner, singer, actor, writer, speaker and entrepreneur. She was born and raised in Brazil by professional musicians and community-based creatives. Her passion is educating on issues related to small business, personal enlightenment, stress, life balance, and self-care.
Suzy has been committed to practicing and teaching yoga for more than 15 years. Her unique journey brought her from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to Austin, Texas, then to Winston Salem, where she has lived for the past 13 years with her sweet son Henry. A highly creative artist, Suzy sings, acts, writes, dances, plays the violin and teaches on all of these subjects. Suzy incorporates a range of holistic practices into her work, including many styles of yoga (influenced by everything from kundalini to yin and ashtanga), meditation practices, breathing techniques and tai chi techniques. She is also a Reiki Master Teacher and a certified EFT (Emotional Freedom Tapping) Practitioner. Suzy capped off her artistic talents and drive to be a leader in holistic wellness by earning her Master of Fine Arts degree from Goddard College in 2020.
She works privately with clients to achieve greater mental, emotional and physical balance as critical elements of the healing process. She is also a professional speaker and leads group classes and retreats for businesses, churches, schools and non-profit organizations. Clients, students, and teams that work with Suzy through her coaching and wellness programs experience life-changing transformation. Individuals gain new skills such as increased strength and flexibility, more effective emotional and mental management, reduced stress, greater confidence and productivity, increased levels of peace, joy, and overall satisfaction in their personal and professional lives.
Akiyra is a beautiful spirit who was born in High Point and never strayed far from home. She is a proud mother and lover of laughter. Akiyra’s path to overcoming childhood trauma and finding her true self led her to yoga. Her transformation was truly life-changing. Now, she has a palpable desire to help others find healing, as well, through purposeful, powerful, and playful movement. Akiyra completed her 200 E-RYT at The Breathing Room in May 2021. She journeyed to Colorado for an intense training and additional certification in both Buti Yoga and Hot Buti Yoga in October 2021. Buti Yoga is a dynamic asana practice fused with primal movement, tribal dance, and deep engagement of the core. Akiyra’s desire is for every session on the mat to present each student with a safe space that facilitates nurturing, transformation, and freedom of expression. Her hope and encouragement for everyone is that they can embrace both physical and spiritual growth, on the mat and beyond. Akiyra carries her love of journaling and meditating with her outside of the studio. She also loves reading a good book and cooking tasty meals and treats.
Lyra is a humanistic, highly sensitive healer, teacher, dreamer, and magic-maker. She is a modern day alchemist working with energetics, movement, breath and sound to harmonize all layers of the self. As a Shamanic practitioner her inspiration comes through her devotion to listening beyond words and seeing the unseen. She weaves together tools, teachings, healing modalities, and guidance that is intuitive and transformational. The space Lyra cultivates is one that inspires beings to champion their inner freedom and forge a connection with their inner compass, trusting the unique language of their bodies, minds, and souls. Lyra believes that every human has the power to self-balance, self-regulate, self-empower, and self-heal through the process of conscious embodiment and conscious relaxation. Lyra offers group and private sessions, workshops and a variety of classes and immersive experiences that include meditation, yoga, somatic movement, breathwork, vocal alchemy, chanting, conscious embodiment, journeying, and sound healing. Her credentials include being a Certified Yoga Teacher (200hr Hatha, 220hr Kundalini, Yoga Nidra), Embody Keys Instructor, Certified Shamanic Practitioner, Craniosacral Practitioner, and Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy Practitioner.
Louie was First introduced to Asian philosophies and training at the age of 12 with the practice of Shaolin Kung Fu. Adding to that practice Tai Chi and the understanding of the body’s energies, meditation and devotional practices until his later twenties. Louis also studied various religions and theologies throughout his years. In his later 30s suffering a devastating back injury that left him jobless for 3 years and laying on his back he found the practice of classical Indian music which led him in-turn to the practice of yoga. After Louis found greater health, flexibility, and overall well-being through his practice of yoga, he decided to share his practice with the community and whomever wants to learn more. Since becoming a yoga teacher he is also became a Reiki practitioner and an ordained minister to further his practice and cause.
Amanda was first introduced to yoga in 2005 as a form of exercise. She enjoyed the physical practice of yoga, however, was not yet exposed to the wonderment of all eight limbs. In 2019, she came to Winston-Salem to work as a pediatric nurse. It was here that she attended a yoga class which focused on tuning inward instead of the achievement of a “perfect pose.” She was taught to use yoga to expand, to heal and “to fill up her cup.” As she navigated through the demands of her nursing career, yoga provided a balance, a sanctuary. Her excitement for these newfound tools was uncontainable and she began sharing her passion with others. Her ultimate dream is to incorporate yoga and meditation into hospitals, and it be normalized to provide holistic resources. She continues to practice as a pediatric nurse as well as a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT-200), a Reiki-1 practitioner and a meditation teacher. Her favorite kind of class is one where the students can bridge the connection between body and breath. Her hope is that you leave her class feeling better than when you walked in. “Yoga is not about holding your breath or forcing yourself to shrink into the posture. Yoga is about expressing the posture in a way to continue to expand your breath fully.”
Bridget is a native of New York who moved to North Carolina in 2021. She became enamored with yoga during her college years and earned her teaching certification in 2015 in Santa Barbara, California. Bridget began her practice with students and staff at the University of Buffalo, while serving as an adjunct faculty member there. In 2019, she completed her doctorate degree in physical therapy and began her professional practice in September of that year. As a physical therapist, Bridget strives to optimize the well-being of her patients through comprehensive treatment and individualized care that focuses on the alignment, integration, and sequential movements. She is currently a physical therapist in Yadkinville and enjoys integrating practices of mindfulness and transformational asanas into her work with patients of all ages and abilities.
Rachel is an Ohio native who found her love for yoga in 2013. Being busy with grad school and working led her to a search for ways to de-stress and start moving her body. Yoga opened a brand new world. Her reasons for practicing have changed over the years but include needing to “exercise”, healing the mind and emotions in a safe space, finding confidence and strength, and feeling that spiritual connection of the mind and body when she steps on the mat. Yoga and meditation have had such a positive transformation in her life, that she now shares that love with the community. Rachel is a Registered Yoga Teacher at the 200-hour level (RYT-200), a Reiki-1 practitioner, and meditation teacher. Her style of teaching holds space for others to explore their practice, by bringing her energy and passion to her teachings. Bringing her students to a more empowering awareness of their breath and asana practice. When Rachel is not teaching you can find her hiking, hanging out in the community, running her small business, and working her HR job in the corporate world.
Julie cannot recall a time when she was not passionate about helping people discover their true authentic self. She has been a 200hr-RYT certified yoga instructor for more than 12 years. She dedicates herself to helping her students understand how yoga is an integral part of an overall healthy lifestyle. She is highly adept at encouraging and facilitating a self-focused energy and inward reflection that truly connects each individual’s mind, body, and spirit. By integrating breathwork and meditation into her asana practice, Julie instills a sense of calm and relaxation that is unsurpassed, while challenging each student’s physical and psychological limits.
Lucy Bella Dunton began practicing yoga at age five. She was very serious about yoga from the very beginning, attending public yoga classes six days/week. At the age of 12, Bella decided to become a certified yoga instructor. Bella successfully completed her 200-hr RYT training at the age of 13 and became a registered teacher with Yoga Alliance. Over the past four years, Bella has experienced teaching all types of yoga to people of all ages. One the highlights of her early career included two summers leading children with neurological disabilities through meditation and asanas as part of their ongoing therapy. The children from the camp adored and respected Bella, evident by the fact they the children and their parents still keep in touch with her today. When she isn’t on the mat, Bella enjoys painting, playing the piano, and dancing.
Tiffany is a Yoga Alliance certified instructor RYT 200. She is a graduate of the first yoga teachers training class offered at The Breathing Room in Jan 2021 (CYT 230). She is a native of Winston Salem North Carolina. Tiffany has been doing spiritual work for most of all her life and considers herself to be a true “spiritual humanitarian”. She is a professional psychic and tarot card reader. She has worked for several popular psychic companies since 2016. Tiffany’s practice and teaching focuses on helping individuals create a new way of thinking about life. Her abilities have aided many people to awaken to their true purpose and destiny. Yoga has been a life changing journey for Tiffany. “The Spirit of Yoga is powerful, and we can see its benefits consume our entire lives”. Tiffany teaches students of all age groups. She is passionate about guiding students on a journey of self-discovery and awareness. “My focus is helping people who want to become well mentally which leads to wellness physically”. I offer services that teach students the spiritual benefits of yoga and its foundations. Tiffany also specializes in techniques that help students cope and navigate everyday life with boldness.
Shannah is a 500-hour certified yoga instructor whose training is rooted primarily in the Vinny and Iyengar traditions. She has a deep respect for the spiritual journey that yoga has brought to her life. Shannah is particularly passionate about sharing her love and admiration for the practice with those who may not fully embrace their potential. She enjoys helping her students cultivate and explore their own personal practice as they learn to appreciate their body and their mind through intentional reflection and gratitude. Key outcomes of her classes are typically an increase in self-awareness, self-confidence, and mindfulness. Shannah loves to discuss the anatomy of asanas and the philosophy and ethical aspects of yoga with her students as their practice grows!
Abbey Lefko
Abbey has been practicing yoga for over nine years, but really fell in love with the practice in 2019, when she began using yoga as a way to manage stress and improve her mental health. She is a Charlotte, NC native who recently relocated to the Winston-Salem area. She is in graduate school at Wake Forest University studying Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She hopes to one day tie yoga into her practice as a counselor. Abbey is a 500-hour registered yoga teacher. She earned both her 200 and 300-hour yoga teacher certifications from Arrichion Hot Yoga in Charlotte, NC. As a yoga teacher her goal is to help students enjoy moving their bodies. She is a firm believer that all bodies are made for yoga. Exercise should be fun and it should make you feel good, both physically and mentally. She believes yoga is so much more than just exercise, it is a way for us to connect to ourselves and attend to our mental, spiritual, and emotional needs. Her style of yoga is inspired by vinyasa flow and the connection between movement and breathing. She strives to make her classes both energetic and accessible.
Jarytza is a 200-RYT Yoga Alliance Certified Instructor aims to increase access to yoga through language and ability. As a first generation immigrant, Jarytza is passionate about providing services that people may be hesitant to attend due to a language barrier. She was introduced to yoga in 2017 during a difficult stage in her mental health journey and completed their 200-RYT training in 2021. Currently, Jarytza is also a licensed therapist who uses a bottom-up approach as she notes the mind-body connections to wellbeing and importance of holistic care.
Jessica is a creative spirit, wife, and mother of two beautiful girls. Born and raised in Colorado, she has been practicing yoga since 2006 when she was invited to attend class with a friend. It was love at first savasana! Her appreciation for the practice has deepened over the years, using it as a powerful tool to navigate motherhood, anxiety, self-discovery, and more. Jessica completed her 200 RYT at The Breathing Room in June, 2022. Through yoga she hopes to help others connect with themselves, inviting them to experience the physical, mental and spiritual transformation of the practice. When not on the mat, Jessica can be found spending time with her kids or in the garden. She is happiest basking in the sunshine and loves to combine her connection to nature with her love of yoga, often practicing or teaching classes right in her own backyard.
Dr. Wendy Perrell walks the path as an author, Shaman, healer, meditation and spiritual teacher, energy alchemist, medium, and soul empowerment coach. She is on mission to help people awaken to their light and feel empowered to fulfill their soul’s purpose. As a multi-dimensional being, she serves others as a spiritual midwife, messenger, teacher, and spiritual translator as she assists people to feel comfortable to step out of the spiritual closet and live from the soul. With gentleness and humor, she helps people to seamlessly integrate their spiritual gifts with life goals and heart’s desires while walking in both worlds – physical and spiritual, with ease and grace.
Dr Wendy uses meditation as a way to help the ego step aside so that the soul light can shine. She uses guided meditation to help you discover your highest path and how to work around challenges as you step into your soul’s purpose with confidence. She meets people at the soul level, wherever they are in awakening process and teaches how to activate their soul guidance system, strengthen their spiritual muscle, honor their divine human blueprint, and channel their spiritual team.
Dr. Wendy works with a powerful team of Ascended Masters, Angels, Lemurians, Pleiadeans, Elementals; transcending the limitation of language and science. She is an expert in balancing karmic patterns, resolving past life hold-ups, illuminating natural spiritual gifts, as well as eliminating negative emotional and thought programming. With the assistance her angelic team, she can read your energy, explain why it is stuck and facilitate healing inside and out. She has shared part of her awakening story and client’s stories in her book, Coming Out of The Spiritual Closet, as a means to assist others in their awakening process. Dr. Wendy is the founder of Dr. Wendy Empowers where she provides soul essentials that empower and encourage all souls to shine.
Ryan began practicing yoga in 2013. After his first class, he was hooked. The state of relaxation, both physical and mental, that he felt after practicing yoga was life-changing. After a few years of practicing, Ryan’s yoga teacher encouraged him to pursue teacher training. He completed his certification as an RYT-200 in 2016 and has now taught for over 500 hours. Ryan enjoys sharing the transformational gifts and benefits that yoga practice has brought to his life with others. His usual teaching style follows a fairly slow pace, giving ample time to dial in alignment and to simply ‘be’ in a posture. When he’s not teaching, you may find him walking around town!
Olivia is a North Carolina native but has traveled around the world through her pursuit of dance, spiritual awareness, cultural history and the creative arts. She’s been immersed in a mixture of dancing, performing, teaching fitness, educating young minds, theater and practicing yoga for over 20 years and is proud to now be a 200RYT Yoga Alliance Certified Instructor, having earned her 230HR Yoga Teacher Certification through The Breathing Room in Spring of 2021. Olivia is a proud mother of a beautiful and talented teenage son, but inspires many more children through her work as an elementary educator. Olivia’s mission is to make healing and transformation accessible to all individuals, communities and the world. She hopes that her infectious smile, energetic yet mellow teaching style, and her passion and flair for yoga, dance, culture, arts, fitness, wellness, and education will inspire others to tap into and connect with their inner soul, recognize their oneness with nature and The Divine, find the freedom to release that which does not serve the mind, body or spirit and be open to the positive vibrations and the beautiful light of awareness that is waiting to be cultivated.
Dont’a Thomas is a 200RYT Yoga Alliance certified instructor with over 12 years of experience in holistic health and wellness. He is an American Sports and Fitness Association (ASFA) certified master trainer, specializing in body mechanics and functional exercise. He is also a nutrition and digestive specialist, as well as an herbal practitioner. Dont’a has worked in physical therapy and has trained innumerable people. His client base has included professional athletes and fighters, patients recovering from injury or surgery, and seniors trying to maintain strength, mobility, and flexibility.
Dont’a advocates for all of his students to bring ME: Maximum Effort into every exercise and every movement, as that is the key to incredible results. He strives to understand his students’ goals and pushes himself to help them reach those goals. He is passionate about combating childhood obesity and using physical movement to boost self-esteem. His ideal vision is to see our community become a holistically healthy environment where people are active, engaged, and connected through healthy relationships.
Gail comes to The Breathing Room with a passion for sharing the physical, emotional, and healing benefits of yoga. After a career in public education, she has shifted her life to focus on wellness work. Her 26-year connection with the YMCA led her into wellness coaching and group exercise instruction, including small and large group yoga classes. Gail has had the privilege to work with a variety of instructors and practice a wide variety of yoga styles. After certifying as a 200 hour yoga teacher through K10 Yoga, Gail has led classes in gentle yoga, deep stretch yoga, chair yoga, senior yoga, and chakra-aligned yoga posture classes. She has particular interest in yoga for children and yoga to support patients with chronic diseases. Through her classes, Gail strives to provide a warm atmosphere where all students feel welcome, accepted to begin where they are, encouraged to reach their yoga goals and where students internalize techniques they can use to bring centeredness to daily life.
In addition to holding certifications in Occupational Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, nutrition, and CrossFit, Taylor Wilhelm is also a certified yoga instructor. She enjoys integrating her naturopathic work with her training in holistic wellness, as she believes that the body, mind, and spirit are all intricately intertwined. Taylor believes that healing and happiness are both maximized when multiple modalities are applied in concert and with generous attention given to embracing our authentic selves. Taylor’s mission is to cultivate an awakening of love and divinity within each of us and to empower growth through healing modalities that transform, connect, and deepen the meaning of daily life. Taylor’s classes offer a safe space for individuals to return to their authentic selves through connection and tools that activate powerful action
A native of the “City of Arts & Innovation”, Dezmon Woods is a dynamic performer and dance instructor. He developed a passion for the performing arts at a young age. As a student, Dezmon was a member of Parkland Magnet High School’s Dance Movement Company, Choral Ensemble, and Men’s Ensemble. He was cast in various high school productions, including The Nutcracker, The Wizard of Oz, and Guys and Dolls. He was also a part of -and currently coaches- the Dancing Debs marching band auxiliary. At Winston-Salem State University, Dezmon was a member of the Association of Rhythmic Talent, the WSSU Choir, and Schola Cantorum. His travel and performances with WSSU took him all over the United States and to places such as the Bahamas and South Africa. Dezmon premiered with the NC Black Repertory Company in the 2015 production of Black Nativity and returned as a cast member in 2016, 2017, and 2019. In 2016, he was also cast by the NC Black Repertory Company as part of the ensemble in The Gospel According To Broadway. Dezmon’s most recent work, Gem, produced and directed locally by Nathan Ross Freeman, premiered at A/perture Cinema in June 2019.
Instructed by Dezmon Woods, this beginner level dance class explores a variety of ideas that are essential for any form of artistic movement. Participants will engage in assorted styles of dance including Modern, Jazz, Hip Hop, African, and more! All classes will include fundamental body conditioning geared toward preparing participants for the particular style of movement per class. Creative combos will blissfully conclude each class, connecting choreographic intent to physical motion. Ages 10+ will find their purpose as the dancer they desire to be through Intentional Expressions! Register via phone (336-618-3748) or via email (dezmonw@gmail.com). Class fee of $20/student is payable in cash, card, or Venmo.
Leave a Reply Cancel reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
What's on your mind?
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
Hestia | Developed by ThemeIsle
Hey there. Thank you for visiting The Breathing Room's website. We are honored to be a part of your holistic journey. Please let us know how we can connect you today.
| 24,288 |
We have watched in films like The Ring, that disembodied spirits call up people and communicate on phones. Somehow mobiles and telephones are very personal to us and they are too 'this world'ly. Ghosts being able to tap into something so much part of this physical dimension, feel very uncomfortable.
It was a strange enough innovation from the film makers to come up with such an idea where the apparitions have power over telephones. But the thought that a ghost can talk to us on our own mobile or chat with us on a messenger is unnerving.
Yet, is it actually possible?
I had been reading several occult texts and experiences of psychics of the East and the West. Author Hareward Carrington describes how spirits try and communicate through gestures, symbolism and thought transfer in his book called "The Psychic Powers And How To Develop Them". In the East, all texts and knowledge transferred through word indicate different forms of spirit communication... yet they were all from an age when there were no mobiles or social media... and the concept of revolution in communication is not even 2 decades old. Then who would answer our question?
Here is a strange and unexplained paranormal occourance documented on the internet that might interest you. This, kind of explains if spooks could be actually tech savy.
This is an article from July 2014 that stated that a terrified boyfriend reports that her dead-for-two-years-now girlfriend Emily, had been contacting him on Facebook. She had been operating her own account, sending him messages of distress and requests for help and tagging herself in his photos.
Briefly, the communication started off, it seems, on 4th Sept 2013. Nathan's girlfriend Emily was killed in a car crash a couple of years ago and Nathan, on this day, received a message from Emily's account.
At first Nathan thought it was a bug or something. There were sentences lifted from their previous conversations that were stored away somewhere. Then after a while Emily wrote an original sentence. And then, "it's cold"... "Freezing"... " "(m)ust let me walk" etc gave him the chills. Later, the girlfriend tagged herself to his posts. And finally, she had posted a photo she had taken from behind a half-closed door, depicting Nathan's computer and chair...
We would not know if this was some sort of a prank, or a hoax by Nathan himself or it was for real... But it is surely chilling and unexplained. Could examples like these could indicate that spooks have upgraded themselves to be tech savvy?
Ref. Link:
Thanks for reading.
If you like stuff like this and would want regular updates on some very interesting paranormal phenomenon, do join my core group, called the Thriller Elite... a special group where we share bizarre stuff along with monthly contests and Mastho's free thriller stories and books... Here is the link, in case you'd be interested. Even otherwise, please come back, I have planned to reveal a lot of research material in my upcoming articles.
An ad film maker discovers that he can not only see ghosts but the ghosts are terrified of him. What happens when he encounters not one, not two but 3348 Ghosts in an ancient fortress. A quick thriller with a touch of silly comedy.
| 3,416 |
If you are at all worried about keeping construction costs down and lengthening the useable lifespan of your building, it’s critical that energy performance is considered from the earliest stages of planning and design. John Hearne spoke to a number of leading Irish experts in sustainable design about following simple principles of orientation, form and layout to achieve substantial energy improvements for free
Whether it’s one-off housing, housing estates or commercial buildings, getting orientation, form and layout right won’t generate any additional capital costs, but it will deliver huge energy savings.
Jay Stuart, managing director of sustainable design consultants DW EcoCo, cites Paul Littlefair’s 1991 book, Site layout planning for daylight and sunlight: a guide to good practice, as the key reference work for the industry on this subject. The book’s basic proposition runs as follows: If at design stage, consideration is given to the orientation of the houses, the layout of the rooms and the distribution of the windows, you can reduce energy consumption by 10 per cent to 15 per cent at no extra cost to the developer. “Just by doing really, really simple, basic things.” says Stuart.
First, orientation and layout. “Say a house is a rectangle, built along an east/west axis. On the north side of the house you want to minimise the amount of glazing purely because there’s no solar gain on that side of the house. Conversely, you want the larger proportion of your glazing on the south side to let the sun in to warm the house. Then you want to organise the rooms so you’re sitting where the sun is, because people naturally gravitate to natural daylight. So you might consider, though this isn’t an absolute rule, the kitchen on the east side of the house and the living room on the west side of the house. You might have your staircase, storage and utility rooms on the north side of the house because you’re only there for a short while and they don’t have the same heating requirements. You might put the entrance with a draft lobby on the north side of the house.”
Now he introduces recent changes to Part L of the building regulations, which mandate the use of renewable energy – either 10kWh/m2/yr of thermal renewable energy from a heat pump, solar thermal system or biomass boiler, or 4kWh/m2/yr from micro-wind or solar electric. “The most cost-effective way to meet the building standards for renewable energy in low density housing is with a solar collector system, which is most cost-effective if it’s small, and it can be small if it’s at its optimum angle, and that’s at 40 degrees facing due south.”
Next he brings in building form. “In the Dwelling Energy Assessment Programme (DEAP), and in the Passive House Planning Package (PHPP), the ratio of the external envelope surface area to volume has the biggest single impact on a building’s energy performance. A long, thin building is going to have a very large external envelope area compared to a cube. The ideal would be a sphere, so the next thing that’s practical to build, unless you want to live in a geodesic dome, is a cube.”
So, to sum up: “The concept of the house you want to build is a cube facing south with a 40 degree pitch with solar collectors on it.”
Building with reference to site and sun is not a new idea. You only have to look at vernacular architecture. Architect Sinead Cullen, also of DW EcoCo, says that in cottage clusters all over Ireland, you’ll find the same recurring patterns. The main house, together with a series of outhouses form a square, with the main house and the larger windows facing south, with the outhouses providing shelter from prevailing winds and concentrating passive solar gain into the dwelling. Smaller windows are found on north elevations, larger ones on the south. “Responding to site and climatic conditions is something we've been doing for thousands of years.” says Cullen. “It’s just with cheap energy we no longer found it necessary to look to building form and orientation to help heat and protect our buildings. Looking to site conditions therefore is something that we just need to re-learn rather than learn from the beginning.”
Against that backdrop of cheap energy, and driven too by increased population densities and the housing boom, the disconnect between buildings and their environment intensified. When considering orientation, designers, suddenly blind to the sun, looked at planning controls, views, alignment with roads...“The typical case,” says leading sustainable architect John Goulding, “is where you’ve an east/west running street and the houses on the north side are exactly the same as the houses on the south side, with no rearrangement of internal planning to account for that.” The failure to set glazing ratios with regard to that orientation compounds the problem. Goulding, like everyone else interviewed for this article, uses one word repeatedly. Simple. “In one sense it’s very very simple. Once you know the constraints of the site that you have...it’s a question of coming up with a building form and glazing ratios and facade design that allow the building to do most of the work itself, leaving only a relatively minor, residual amount of energy to be provided by other means.”
An extract from the 1997 BRE report ‘Passive solar estate layout’ show the difference between conventional and passive solar orientation
As Jay Stuart points out, it’s not just commercial or sustainable imperatives that are driving design in this direction. The path which we now know building regulations will follow, coupled this time with the sluggish construction sector makes the case for passive solar design even more compelling. By 2010, the current regulations, which seek a 40 per cent reduction in both energy demand and carbon emissions together with the renewable energy obligation will be upped to 60 per cent reductions and, it is rumoured, a more substantial renewable energy contribution. “By 2013, they’re talking about passive house standards in Ireland,” says Stuart, “and in 2015 the EU is talking about passive house standards throughout Europe. 2013 is little more than four years away.” He points out that any house currently at design stage will not be built for at least two years. At that point, we will be so close to the introduction of passive house standards that to secure comparative advantage, it will make sense to aim for that standard of construction in any case.
Roof mounted solar panels on the eco-buildings at Vauban, Freinburg. Note the eco homes are oriented towards the sun, whilst many of the conventional buildings are facing east or west
But do these imperatives restrict design? Does this mean we all have to live in south facing cubes with a 40 degree roof pitch. “That’s a kind of thinking that I think is defunct.” says Stuart. “Those are polarities that needn’t exist unless you want to grossly oversimplify things. It’s up to the designer to come up with a good design which achieves both. I’ve described a schematic solution which is ideal...Not all houses will look the same, and I wouldn’t want them to. If you have a large L shaped or U shaped house with lots of dormers and extensions, you’re going to significantly increase its cost and its heat loss. You can compensate for that by having a higher specification.” Passive solar layout prescribes basic principles, he points out. If you know what the most efficient is, you can determine the impact on the building’s energy profile when you depart from that.
It’s not all about the sun either. In an Irish context in particular, dealing effectively with wind is almost as important. The means employed by vernacular architecture to defend structures against prevailing winds remain open to designers today. But in addition to landscape and planting, designing for air-tightness has emerged as the most successful modern means of protection from wind. While almost any structure can be made air-tight, the building forms most amenable to air-tightness are the simplest. “Like everything, it should be considered at design stage.” says Chris Montague of Building Envelope Technologies. “And the fact is that the simpler the shape, the simpler the method of construction, the better the level of air-tightness that can be achieved, because the design and the construction process are more straightforward. The more complex a building is, the more construction interfaces it has, the more potential points of failure. That’s a very simple rule.” And again, as everyone attuned to these issues points out, this does not mean sacrificing aesthetics. “We can’t all live in shoeboxes made of in-situ or precast concrete panels.” says Montague. “It’s like all these things. It’s a compromise to achieve the best aesthetics and function of the building while bearing that in mind. That’s the process every architect goes through when designing a building.” Breaking that simplicity rule does not necessarily imply removing all hope of an air-tight construction. The more complex the design, the more work will have to be done in adopting the air-tightness strategy to cater for it. Having said that, some of the more popular Irish design forms do present particular challenges. “Dormers are of warm roof construction,” says Montague, “which will rely on a flexible vapour barrier for air-tightness, so you get the associated problems of sealing, dressing, cutting at corners and penetrations for electrical services and of course how you connect to what’s providing air-tightness on the ground floor.”
Any discussion of orientation also has to consider solar technologies. Alan Hogan of Kingspan Renewables says that the ideal solution for a solar collector in Ireland is due south, zero degrees azimuth, angled at 0.7 times latitude off the horizontal. In Dublin for example, at 53 degrees north, that generates an angle of just under 37 degrees. “The other criterion that often gets overlooked,” says Hogan, “particularly on high density housing estates, is shadowing, so you have to take into consideration the height of the roof relative to the position of the solar collectors.” He points out too that deviations from that ideal have a relatively benign impact on effectiveness. “45 degrees east or west of due south will normally impact a solar system between 5 per cent and 10 per cent.” As Bill Quigley of NuTech Renewables points out, that impact is fully captured by the DEAP methodology. “If you’re facing south and you’re on a roof slope of 30 degrees, you’ll get annual solar radiation of [for instance] 1,074kWh/m2. If the angle is 45 degrees you get 1,072 kWh/m2. If you’re south east or south west at 30 degrees, you get 1,021 kWh/m2, and at 45 degrees it’s 1,005 kWh/m2.” The lack of any great disparity between these figures indicates the flexibility available, particularly in a domestic setting. It’s also worth noting that there are a range of solar innovations recently come to market. NuTech has designed a system which combines evacuated tube panels with a mechanical heat recovery ventilation system, while PVT panels, such as PV Twin from Zen Renewables combine solar hot water collectors with photovoltaic electricity generating panels to generate up to 43 per cent more energy per meter squared than either system on its own.
While simplicity remains the watchword for designing single houses, working with housing estate layouts presents a separate set of challenges. Philip Crowe, Director of Architecture with MCO believes that one area where Irish design falls down badly is in master planning. At MCO’s Baile Glas residential development in Blackwater, County Cork, the design team set out to create an environment that fostered community development, while cleverly marrying vernacular architecture with passive house targets. “Originally,” says Crowe, “the client envisaged single houses, but we said no. You need to be looking at terraces; it’s a much more suitable form and it is a vernacular form in Ireland. There’s a romance that people always lived in detached houses but villages in Ireland are full of fine examples of Georgian and Victorian terraces. But the critical thing we did in terms of masterplanning was looking at where the traffic went.” In Baile Glas, cars were kept at the periphery of the development in a centralised carpark, leaving circulation spaces for play areas and for social interaction. “Keeping the cars to the edge was challenging. It was hard to persuade the local authority, but it has been perfectly successful because cars are effectively next door to the houses...It’s an incredibly simple idea but it doesn’t happen a lot in the new housing estates.” In the houses themselves, orientation was optimised not alone to make full use of passive solar gains, but to ensure that common areas are passively surveyed. “If you had all the houses putting their blank elevations towards green areas, they would not be overlooked, therefore it would become an easy place for anti-social activity to take place. The best way of ensuring good security in a housing development or a town is to have housing overlooking the space.”
(Clockwise from top right) a plan and elevation of a house at Baile Glas; note the compact form and sout-facing aspect; the winter gardens which act as a buffer to the south
Inside, the houses combine a range of interdependent innovations. Highly glazed southern facades create winter gardens which trap solar energy, and which double as a buffer zones to prevent heat energy escaping. That trapped heat is conducted into the areas which require it, while a very high insulation spec means that very little extra heat is actually required. The terracing also helps here. “The u-value that you use whenever a wall is shared is very very low, effectively negligible,” says Crowe, “so the more shared walls you can get the better. A house in the middle of a terrace is winning on two sides.” Additional height in the ceilings facilitates good air flow, while the design has also managed to eliminate circulation spaces, saving capital costs and additional heat load. Detailing on form again follows the simplicity rule. “It’s all about minimising footprint, and critically minimising opportunities for cold bridging and water ingress. In Blackwater, it’s very, very simple. The houses are just rectangles.”
Philip Crowe also introduces the concept of ‘lifetime’ housing, emphasising the role building layout plays in delivering that goal. “We have some interesting apartments in a scheme in Dundalk. When people begin living in them initially, the space will have a certain arrangement, then, as they grow older they’ll need another arrangement. That flexibility has to be designed in. It’s critical that you don’t have to do major works to make the building work for you, that you don’t have to leave, and that you don’t have to go into hospital either. You can stay at home for as long as possible.” These apartments consist of a double and a single bedroom, a living area, a small bathroom off the main bedroom, but also a separate toilet. The idea is that if the occupant needs someone to stay over with them, that person doesn’t have to use the main bathroom. There’s sufficient space for wheelchair living, for installing a hoist if necessary, and walls can be removed without compromising the structure. These provisions offer no impediment to the occupant’s current lifestyle, yet they provide for occupant needs long into the future.
Pressed by density requirements on one side and delivering the right orientation on the other, one of the central challenges facing passive solar estate design is overshading. Smart design has however managed to meet this challenge even on the tightest, most restricted sites. Philip Crowe cites BedZED, the Beddington Zero Energy Development in London. Powered only by renewable energy generated onsite, the development incorporates some 777m2 of solar panels and makes maximum use of passive heat. Here, the architects developed a typology where living spaces are to the south, just behind winter gardens, while work spaces are placed on the north side. Because these daytime work zones tend to have higher cooling than heating requirements, placing offices at the northern elevation reduces energy demand. Moreover, the lack of glare in north light makes it excellent quality light for working. “This profile works,” says Crowe, “because it’s possible to get very high density and not get overshadowing and accommodate all these different uses in one location.”
Other designs overcome overshading by incorporating what Jay Stuart terms asymmetric streets, where all houses are given a southern orientation and the road runs to the north of one terrace. Alternatively, terraced housing with a sawtooth roof pattern, rather than the familiar continuous ridge and eave formation, can also defeat overshadowing issues and orientation for solar systems.
Winter gardens employed to similar effect as in Baile Glas at the ground-breaking BedZed development in London
The entire south facing aspect of the BedZED apartments uses winter gardens to let light and heat in
Despite the solutions that are out there, despite the well-established trend in building regulations, Stuart is far from convinced that these alternatives are anywhere near design mainstream. “We’ve been involved in several schemes over the last year where the design was started literally years ago, now they’re coming to us just before planning application for advice on what we need to do to meet regulations, and it’s a huge problem because the roofs are all over the place...If the roof isn’t facing the right way, where do you put the solar collectors? We’re saying to architects, listen guys, next time before you sit down and start drawing, you’d better start thinking about this. It’s a real issue and it’s a significant cost if you don’t deal with it from day one. I think this is absolutely key to housing going forward in Ireland.”
These problems are not restricted to domestic construction. In commercial architecture, the trend towards overglazing has engendered a situation where daytime overheating has to be met with huge amounts of plant and energy – causing needless increases in capital and running costs. Architect John Goulding says we’re still in a situation where our decisions are being governed by agendas that have nothing to do with the environment. “Estate agents will tell you in the case of an office building, if you want to get a premium tenant, you have to get a highly glazed facade, which is a load of baloney. It’s an ill-informed view that that’s what clients like, and of course architects are often wooed by the look of glass buildings because they can look more exciting than buildings with an appropriate glazing ratio.” Falling for this trend leads to the designing-in of problems which then have to be countered with what Goulding calls ‘green bling’. “They’ll tell you that they have a highly efficient heat recovery or air conditioning system or whatever, but it’s bringing an inefficient solution to an inefficient problem. It’s far better to get the building to do most of the work for itself, and then you’ve minimised the problem, whether it’s heating, lighting or even cooling.”
The second endemic problem Goulding identifies relates to the way in which design team fees are structured on larger projects. “The building services engineer’s fee is typically based on the value of the building services equipment that they specify so there’s little incentive to reduce the amount of kit. Often from the first meeting they’re talking about chillers and fans and so on, all the machinery they can buy off the shelf and quite often the architect isn’t sufficiently well-informed or confident about these things to say hold on, do we need all this stuff? Can I not do things to the building that obviate the need for it all?” The obvious solution, which some developers have adopted, is to free up the fee structure in order to remove the incentive, leaving the engineer free to work with the architect to develop cheaper, more innovative solutions. Goulding would also like to see more building physicists on Irish design teams. “They bring a knowledge based on the actual physics of the building’s performance which can offer a refreshing new perspective on procuring an energy efficient building...Once it’s known that you have a site with certain characteristics and constraints, a number of environmentally workable strategies may remain open for investigation. If you know that you’re going to build a building of so many square metres for a particular purpose, you’ve got to have an envelope to enclose that. And the first thing they can do is look at the daily and annual energy requirements for heating, lighting, cooling and ventilation and get the optimum performance out of the building by manipulating building shape and glazing ratios.” This approach means the architect, based on the knowledge gained from working with the building physicist, can begin to design the envelope and express the environmental performance of the building in architectural terms with some confidence.
Glazing of course also has a huge bearing on the building’s relative independence from artificial light. Chris Croly, environmental engineering director with BDP says that traditionally, architects have guessed daylight levels in different rooms, working off glazing ratio rules of thumb. But given the range of additional variables; the depth of rooms, the height of windows, the reflectance of different textures and colours and urban overshading to name a few, spaces often end up with insufficient levels of natural light. Simple spreadsheet calculations can provide limited insights, says Croly, “but we use more advanced techniques that will take into account the height of the window in the façade, the exact position of the window in the room. You would also look at things like transfer glazing - if for example you’re bringing daylight into a room through an atrium, then transferring it through a wall into another room.” Using light shelves as design features help carry the natural light deeper into the space without generating any further energy load. Achieving a daylight factor of only five per cent – that’s five per cent of the lighting level measured outside in a shaded area – means you can leave the lights off for 80 per cent of the time during normal business hours. “There’s an incredible amount of daylight available.” says Croly. “For 50 per cent of daylight hours, the light level outside is 15,000 lux. Inside a building you need just 300 lux, so there’s a staggering amount of light available. We just leave it outside most of the time.”
Transfer glazing at the A&D Wejchert / Building Design Partnership-designed Nurses Education Building at W.I.T.
Sinead Cullen says the title of McCullough & Mulvin’s 1987 book on Irish vernacular ‘The Lost Tradition’ neatly sums up the Irish approach to architecture through the 70s, 80s and 90s “The attitude was that what was old and traditional was bad and all things modern were good. This approach is changing now with energy reduction and renewable requirements, and raising awareness of the need to design with rather than against nature. I believe that this can lead to a new Irish architectural aesthetic that takes the lessons from the past to create new buildings that work with, rather than against their surroundings, create healthier living and working environments and help reduce our energy requirements.”
Good form
good practice
building regulations
Disappointment at new building energy standards
Grant heat pumps at centre of NI energy transition project
Wales to introduce building regulation on overheating
How will today’s buildings perform tomorrow?
Focus on whole build systems, not products - NBT
International - Issue 29
The new edition of Passive House Plus is available now.
Subscribers can click here to read the latest issue online - and all back issues. Don't have a subscription? Click here to subscribe.
You can get a free copy in the post simply by sending us your building enquiry.
Support Passive House +
If you value the work we do to promote high performance buildings, and a more sustainable built environment, please consider supporting us.
| 24,698 |
FILE – Chinese-American actress Anna May Wong, whose first film appearance was in 1922 was “Chinese Parrot,” appears on Jan. 22, 1946. More…
FILE – Chinese-American actress Anna May Wong, whose first film appearance was in 1922 was “Chinese Parrot,” appears on Jan. 22, 1946. More than 60 years after her death, Wong will be the first Asian American to grace U.S. currency. The U.S. Mint announced it will begin shipping quarters with her likeness later this month. (AP Photo/Carl Nesensohn, File)
by: TERRY TANG, Associated Press
Posted: Oct 20, 2022 / 02:20 PM MDT
Updated: Oct 21, 2022 / 05:18 AM MDT
FILE – Chinese-American actress Anna May Wong, whose first film appearance was in 1922 was “Chinese Parrot,” appears on Jan. 22, 1946. More…
FILE – Chinese-American actress Anna May Wong, whose first film appearance was in 1922 was “Chinese Parrot,” appears on Jan. 22, 1946. More than 60 years after her death, Wong will be the first Asian American to grace U.S. currency. The U.S. Mint announced it will begin shipping quarters with her likeness later this month. (AP Photo/Carl Nesensohn, File)
by: TERRY TANG, Associated Press
Posted: Oct 20, 2022 / 02:20 PM MDT
Updated: Oct 21, 2022 / 05:18 AM MDT
More than 60 years after Anna May Wong became the first Asian American woman to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the pioneering actor has coined another first, quite literally.
With quarters bearing her face and manicured hand set to start shipping Monday, per the U.S. Mint, Wong will be the first Asian American to grace U.S. currency. Few could have been more stunned at the honor than her niece and namesake, Anna Wong, who learned about the American Women Quarters honor from the Mint’s head legal consul.
“From there, it went into the designs and there were so many talented artists with many different renditions. I actually pulled out a quarter to look at the size to try and imagine how the images would transfer over to real life,” Anna Wong wrote in an email to The Associated Press.
The elder Wong, who fought against stereotypes foisted on her by a white Hollywood, is one of five women being honored this year as part of the program. She was chosen for being “a courageous advocate who championed for increased representation and more multi-dimensional roles for Asian American actors,” Mint Director Ventris Gibson said in a statement.
The other icons chosen include writer Maya Angelou; Dr. Sally Ride, an educator and the first American woman in space; Wilma Mankiller, the first female elected principal chief of the Cherokee Nation; and Nina Otero-Warren, a trailblazer for New Mexico’s suffrage movement.
Wong’s achievement has excited Asian Americans inside and outside of the entertainment industry.
Her niece, whose father was Anna May Wong’s brother, will participate in an event with the Mint on Nov. 4 at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles. One of Wong’s movies, “Shanghai Express,” will be screened, followed by a panel discussion.
Arthur Dong, the author of “Hollywood Chinese,” said the quarter feels like a validation of not just of Wong’s contributions, but of all Asian Americans’. A star on the Walk of Fame is huge, but being on U.S. currency is a whole other stratosphere of renown.
“What it means is that people all across the nation — and my guess is around the world — will see her face and see her name,” Dong said. “If they don’t know anything about her, they will … be curious and want to learn something about her.”
Born in Los Angeles in 1905, Wong started acting during the silent film era. While her career trajectory coincided with Hollywood’s first Golden Age, things were not so golden for Wong.
She got her first big role in 1922 in “The Toll of the Sea,” according to Dong’s book. Two years later, she played a Mongol slave in “The Thief of Bagdad.” For several years, she was stuck receiving offers only for femme fatale or Asian “dragon lady” roles.
She fled to European film sets and stages, but Wong was back in the U.S. by the early 1930s and again cast as characters reliant on tropes that would hardly be tolerated today. These roles included the untrustworthy daughter of Fu Manchu in “Daughter of the Dragon” and a sex worker in “Shanghai Express.”
She famously lost out on the lead to white actor Luise Rainer in 1937’s “The Good Earth,” based on the novel about a Chinese farming family. But in 1938, she got to play a more humanized, sympathetic Chinese American doctor in “King of Chinatown.”
The juxtaposition of that film with her other roles is the focus of one day in a monthlong program, “Hollywood Chinese: The First 100 Years,” that Dong is curating at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles in November.
“(‘King of Chinatown’) was part of this multi-picture deal at Paramount that gave her more control, more say in the types of films she was going to be participating in,” he said. “For a Chinese American woman to have that kind of multi-picture deal at Paramount, that was quite outstanding.”
By the 1950s, Wong had moved on to television appearances. She was supposed to return to the big screen in the movie adaptation of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Flower Drum Song” but had to bow out because of illness. She died on Feb. 2, 1961, a year after receiving her star.
Bing Chen, co-founder of the nonprofit Gold House — focused on elevating representation and empowerment of Asian and Asian American content — called the new quarter “momentous.” He praised Wong as a star “for generations.”
But at the same time, he highlighted how anti-Asian hate incidents and the lack of representation in media still persist.
“In a slate of years when Asian women have faced extensive challenges — from being attacked to objectified on screen to being the least likely group to be promoted to corporate management — this currency reinforces what many of us have known all along: (they’re) here and worthy,” Chen said in a statement. “It’s impossible to forget, though, as a hyphenated community, that Asian Americans constantly struggle between being successful and being seen.”
Asian American advocacy groups outside of the entertainment world also praised the new quarters. Norman Chen, CEO of The Asian American Foundation, plans to seek the coins out to show to his parents.
“For them to see an Asian American woman on a coin, I think it’d be really powerful for them. It’s a dramatic symbol of how we are so integral to American society yet still seen in stereotypical ways,” he said. “But my parents will look at this. They will be pleasantly surprised and proud.”
To sum it up, Chen said, it’s a huge step: “Nothing is more American than our money.”
Terry Tang is a member of The Associated Press’ Race and Ethnicity team. Follow her on Twitter at https://twitter.com/ttangAP
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
| 7,031 |
Leave comment on what you thought about this post or what you would like to see from us next.Join us on Discord, We give out many rewards during events, tournaments and…
TFT episode 6 – Floor is lava? Kindred just jumps around!
February 20, 2020 January 7, 2021
Leave comment on what you thought about this post or what you would like to see from us next.Join us on Discord, We give out many rewards during events, tournaments and…
TFT episode 5 – This will brighten up your day! 6 Light
February 13, 2020
Leave comment on what you thought about this post or what you would like to see from us next.Join us on Discord, We give out many rewards during events, tournaments and…
| 691 |
Santa Barbara criminal defense attorney William C. Makler has been working in both State and Federal criminal justice since 1989. He has been practicing law in California since 1996 and is licensed to practice law in all the courts of the State of California, and the Eastern and Central Federal District Courts of California. He is a graduate of the University of California at San Diego and McGeorge (UOP) School of Law where he was awarded honors in trial advocacy.
Mr. Makler is an accomplished trial attorney with abundant experience defending nearly every kind of criminal charge including, but not limited to, homicides, DUI, assaults, batteries, domestic violence, drug sales & possession, gun crimes, sex crimes and thefts. He is exceptionally experienced at defending all variety of alcohol offenses including, MIP’s, Fake ID’s, Furnishing Alcohol to Minors, and public intoxication charges. In fact, Mr. Makler has been a stalwart advocate for non-criminal outcomes for area college students facing minor alcohol related charges (http://dailynexus.com/2008-04-08/sb-das-office-to-soften-drunk-in-public-sentences/). Efforts like these, to bring about policy shifts in favor of leniency (and understanding) for groups aggressively targeted by law enforcement, have brought benefit to many more people than have actually been represented by Mr. Makler.
Mr. Makler has represented thousands of DUI defendants on the Central Coast and, by doing so, he has achieved mastery in every aspect of DUI defense including, but not limited to, pretrial motions, jury trials, appeals and DMV hearings (as well as writs and appeals from adverse action by the DMV). Mr. Makler was on the faculty of the Santa Barbara & Ventura Colleges of the Law (2006-8) where he taught evidence.
Prior to becoming a lawyer, Mr. Makler worked for the University of California Police as well the Palo Alto Police, the American Civil Liberties Union and Death Penalty Focus. He worked as a courtroom litigator and research attorney for the Federal Public Defender in Sacramento and was a Felony Deputy Public Defender for both the Santa Barbara and Santa Cruz County Public Defender Offices. Mr. Makler is an active member in good standing of the State Bar of California, the California Public Defenders Association, the Santa Barbara County Bar Association, the Santa Barbara Criminal Defense Bar Association, the National College for DUI Defense, Inc., and the California Attorneys for Criminal Justice. Mr. Makler was the first president of Santa Barbara Defenders, 2017-2019, an association of 40 local criminal defense practitioners; an organization he helped found.
Mr. Makler has, for years running, been rated a 10.0 out of 10.0 and “Superb”, the highest possible rating, by the leading online lawyer rating website. As well, Mr. Makler is rated A-V “Preeminent”, which is the highest possible rating given to lawyers by Martindale Hubbell, the industry leader in the rating of lawyers’ professional abilities and their ethical standards. Having undergone extensive and ongoing peer review by lawyers and judges, Mr. Makler is recognized as having the highest standards of professional excellence and impeccable ethics. To read what his clients have to say about his work, read a growing number of impressive reviews written by actual clients (not web marketers) go to avvo.com.
In addition to his work as a criminal defense attorney, Mr. Makler has been active in the realm of complex civil litigation where he has successfully prosecuted class actions as lead class counsel and various actions under California’s Private Attorney General statute as well as the California’s Consumer Legal Remedies Act. As lead class counsel, he won a class action civil rights case against the CHP that was appealed to the 2nd District Court of Appeal and resulted in a published opinion favoring the class of persons Mr. Makler represents; people who were arrested by the CHP but where no criminal charges were filed. Read more: http://www.courts.ca.gov/opinions/documents/B260643.PDF
The CHP case stands for the basic proposition that people who were arrested on weak evidence deserve a clean slate and a second chance. Read more: http://www.independent.com/news/2016/aug/03/detained-or-arrested-chp-gets-spanked/
Second chances, by way of clean slates, are what Mr. Makler believes just about everyone deserves which is why he keeps an eye out for ways to help all of his clients cope with and, in many cases, fully recover from being labeled as criminals. After all, the worst day of your life should not define who you are.
In that same spirit, and through other high impact litigation, Mr. Makler fought the City of Santa Barbara’s effort to impose a gang injunction which was meant to curb what was seen as – but did not turn out to be – an increasing number of violent gang-related crimes. He, with others, fought it pro bono because the injunction carried with it the, perhaps unintended, consequence of diluting cherished civil liberties of area Latino youths (and irrespective of their individual criminal histories, or lack thereof). And, as the challengers’ expert noted, it might have led to more gang affiliation and crime in the community. He and his colleagues won the case. Read more: http://www.independent.com/news/2014/may/29/both-sides-score-points-gang-injunction-trial/
Call the Law Offices of William C. Makler, P.C. at (805) 892-4922 for a free, no obligation consultation, or fill in your information in the contact form to the right and Mr. Makler will get back to you as soon as possible, and frequently within a few minutes.
A sampling of 40+ lectures given by Mr. Makler to college students, law students, judges and his attorney peers:
“Know Your Rights”, Embarcadero Hall, Hosted by Associated Students at UCSB, October, 2004.
“Avoiding and Minimizing DUI Consequences”, Bench & Bar Conference, given at Santa Barbara City College for MCLE credit for lawyers and judges, January 2006.
“Law of Evidence”, Santa Barbara College of Law, Law School Course, October, 2006 May, 2008.
“Know Your Rights”, Embarcadero Hall, Hosted by Associated Students at UCSB, October, 2007.
“Know Your Rights”, Embarcadero Hall, Hosted by Associated Students at UCSB, October, 2008.
“Know Your Rights”, Embarcadero Hall, Hosted by Associated Students at UCSB, October, 2009.
“DUI From a Defense Perspective”, Santa Barbara College of Law, guest lecture in a course on the law of Driving Under the Influence, July 2010.
| 6,692 |
I found two new math games at DI the other day…gotta love thrift store finds that actually have all the playing pieces! We have played them at Math Alive! the last two weeks and they have been a huge hit, so now I will share them with y’all.
Hue Knew? is a great thinking game. It consists of 10 colored pegs and a gazillion cards that have each color name written in different colors. Two of the color names are written in the same color as its name and whomever grabs those pegs first scores a point. If you grab an incorrect point, you lose a point. On four of the cards, all the color names are correctly written in their same colors. On those cards, you must grab the black peg and if you do so first, you get two points. My students have loved playing this game and it was a hit here at home as well. Its amazing to me how my brain can play tricks on me and make me think I am reading the word brown in brown when it is really written in pink.
Cross-eyed is a fast (each game takes about 5 minutes), competitive, super-fun game. There is a stack of cards with a different pattern on each card and then each player has a stack of smaller cards that match the bigger cards. All the players race through their cards at the same time to see who can find a match to the big card first. As soon as that one is matched, you start on the one below it. At first, I couldn’t see that patterns at all, I just went cross-eyed, but after a few rounds I am much better at it and so are my students.
Both of these games are made by Mindware and while you might not find them at your local thrift store, I’m sure you can find them online.
Related Posts
cards + math = learning
Posted on Jul 26, 2012
go to the dump
Posted on Sep 13, 2011
Posted on Apr 28, 2011
I'm Tracy, a mama with big dreams, crazy ideas, loads of laughter, an insatiable desire to learn, and enormous piles of laundry. Want to know more?
| 1,924 |
last summer jesse, jen and i were in the car returning from a work trip, headed back to LA and really not wanting to go home. we were talking about how much we had to do upon returning and how we seriously wanted to avoid it. when we hit LA one of us casually mentioned that we shouldn’t stop in LA, we should just keep driving. so we did. we drove to palm springs and spent one night at the korakia and it was magical and liberating. it was one extra night away but it felt like the most luxurious thing in the world. it felt like we were living the good life that day. we had breakfast by the pool and laid around in our bathrobes in the sun, it was perfect and i’ll always remember it.
diet coke recently launched a campaign called “get a taste” and when they asked me if i wanted to support the campaign, i was all ears. the project centers around getting a taste of the good life, the times when you actually get to do the things you dream about, like ditching work and having a spa day, or buying that couch you’ve been eyeing, splurging on a pair of over priced shoes or flying to see someone you love, just because. it’s about the things you could only imagine happening, actually happening.
today we’re giving away a chance for you to win that experience, to get to do the thing that would make you feel like you’re living the good life. together with diet coke, one person will win their dreamt up experience, up to $1000, whatever that may be. concert tickets, a night away, a plane ticket, trading in your old purse for the one you always walk by at the department store but could never buy…
now, this prize looks different for everyone and we want to know what it looks like to YOU! what could we give you that would make you jump up and down?
maybe it’s saying no more to hand washing everything and finally getting a dishwasher? or putting in the expensive tile in your kitchen just because it’s pretty. let us know what your world would look like if it tasted as good as diet coke and we’ll select one winner, at random, to receive their “taste” up to $1000.
here’s how to win…./ this giveaway is now closed and the winner has been selected and notified.
1) leave us a comment below telling us about something we could give you that would make your world as good as the taste of diet coke. please remember that the prize limit is $1000 so try and make your idea something that would fall in that category.
this giveaway is open for one week. one winner will be chosen at random on thursday, october 9th, 2014 to receive the prize the described in their comment (value not to exceed $1000) this giveaway is open to domestic readers only. the retail value of prize is $1000. this giveaway is hosted by designlovfest. read official rules and regulations, here.
this story is brought to you by diet coke, thank you for supporting the sponsors that allow us to create original content for you.
(photos by sheila gim for designlovefest)
Add your own
October 2, 2014 at 4:24 am
My dreamt up award would be a plane ticket for my mom to Amsterdam. I just moved to London for graduate school, and had to take up loans to do so. But being in Europe, its important to me that I get the chance to travel. My moms favorite place in Europe is Amesterdam, so I would seriously feel like I was living the good life if I could buy her a ticket from the US, and meet her there for a couple of days (without the guilt of feeling like I should have put that money towards my loans!)
ania @ the new diplomat's wife says:
October 2, 2014 at 4:34 am
two tickets to venice, which is an intra-European hop for us. check in at our favorite hotel. aperitivo that turns into a dinner of all the good snacks they serve. harry’s bar as a night cap. a water taxi if we have extra, and water bus if we don’t. and walk across st. mark’s. photos on the square at sunrise, when you have it all to yourself and a gondolieri or two as they set up their boats. espresso’s and cornetto’s to start the next day and head home… and this isn’t b/c of the sponsor of the giveaway but I’d be lying if I didn’t admit I’d be having a diet coke on ice at the airport…
October 2, 2014 at 4:36 am
With one grand, I would probably buy myself a really nice camera for taking pictures on my blog, because right now, I have to take them with the front-facing camera on my kindle fire, and they are really low quality.
nicole says:
October 2, 2014 at 4:36 am
I’m a graphic designer, and I’m very passionate about design. I love creating something with my hands and my mind and being able to do so has brought me through the death of my mom + grandma this past year. I would love to use the $1000 to furnish and decorate my bedroom and home studio. I would love to have a completely inspiring space- somewhere to feel at home, to create, and keep on creating.
October 2, 2014 at 4:38 am
I would book a holiday to Santorini for me and my boyfriend. I’ve heard so many amazing things about it – it’s totally beautiful, but vacations there sometimes add up to as much as a trip to SE Asia (from the UK) where my family lives, so it never quite seems justified.
Edith says:
October 2, 2014 at 4:41 am
As a shoe addict, since 2 years I am dreaming of a pair of Valentino’s flat rockstuds, as unfortunately I can’t buy them. But they are, for sure, my dream shoes.
Boost your Bust Reviews says:
October 2, 2014 at 4:42 am
good effort.
Corrin says:
October 2, 2014 at 4:50 am
A check made out to Visa to take a nice chunk out of my last remaining credit card debt, which would result in a fabulous nights sleep.
October 2, 2014 at 4:58 am
I have been dying to visit Iceland, so I’d us it to fund my travels around the country and see as much as I can!
October 2, 2014 at 5:00 am
October 2, 2014 at 5:01 am
1000$, hmm… I’d buy two plane tickets to Portugal for me and my mom. We would bond over hiking trips, we’d go snorkeling. I could remind her and myself what adventure feels like. I feel like we both need this a lot, because we wanted to go there for many years. And with all the routine, we have lost our lust for adventures and magnificent wonders of life.
October 2, 2014 at 5:01 am
I have been sewing on the same machine for 10 yrs. I would really love to treat myself to a new sewing machine. I just can’t justify splurging on a new one right now as I’m 7 months pregnant. But winning $1000 would certainly get me to treat myself!
October 2, 2014 at 5:03 am
I’d take two weeks off from work the end of October to road trip with my bf to Montana and Colorado. I’m out of PTO for the year, and this… YOLO (he’s in between jobs). Biking, hiking, the mountains and fresh air with my main squeeze… yes, please!
Flor says:
October 2, 2014 at 5:06 am
It seems you ladies want to travel very bad! Mmmm, too bad is only for domestic readers
October 2, 2014 at 5:11 am
Oooo great giveaway! Considering I just moved from Florida to Minnesota, I would buy lots of cute winter clothes!
October 2, 2014 at 5:12 am
upgrade my upcoming nye trip which is currently a bit flat to be a true luxury!
Carrie says:
October 2, 2014 at 5:14 am
I would FINALLY feel ready to buy our dream house!! We have enough to cover the obvious things, but you know those pesky hidden costs are what getcha…This would give me the peace of mind to close my eyes, let go and sign away!
Hannah says:
October 2, 2014 at 5:17 am
I would buy a new camera! I already have a “beginner’s” DSLR, but to get one with faster fps and higher quality would be a dream.
Amber @ Ember & March says:
October 2, 2014 at 5:18 am
I would use it to help convert space in my room into a mini home-office. I’d buy a desk, office accessories and (if funds allowed) an iPad mini to take biz on the go!
Ioanna says:
October 2, 2014 at 5:18 am
with $1000 I would please like the Nikon D5300 kit (or similar) I love my little bridge camera but I think I’ve outgrown it and would love the chance to experiment and improve my photography further. A new camera would make the world as good as diet coke (and I drink a lot of the stuff, in fact I’m drinking one right now with my lunch!) xx
October 2, 2014 at 5:19 am
Oh Goodness! I would use it as a down payment on a new apartment. So my husband and I can move our of the in-laws! a space to ourselves to create our own home!
October 2, 2014 at 5:21 am
I would buy the Lulu & Georgia rug I have been eyeing for my new condo!
Taylor says:
October 2, 2014 at 5:21 am
Since my boyfriend and I moved in together a year ago, we haven’t really been able to get away for ourselves. I would absolutely love a nice romantic weekend getaway at a B&B just relaxing with my loved one. It would make my stress go wayyyyyyy down! Good luck to all!
Erin says:
October 2, 2014 at 5:23 am
I would use it to get rid of stress by paying off wedding bills and then getting a massage!
Lucy says:
October 2, 2014 at 5:26 am
It would definitely be a trip to London – my fiance and I haven’t been on a trip together in so long, as we’ve been saving for our wedding, so a little time away would just be a dream!
October 2, 2014 at 5:27 am
I would want to travel abroad with my boyfriend.
October 2, 2014 at 5:32 am
I just got my beloved Fuji camera stolen, just before going on my honeymoon to California! Sad sad sad! I know it’s not the end of the world but it would mean the world to me to get it replaced! Especially after saving every little penny we own for this trip!
October 2, 2014 at 5:34 am
A trip to Colorado to see a concert at Red Rocks!
Anne with an e says:
October 2, 2014 at 5:34 am
A date night fund – to pay for babysitters and meals out. And to maybe even spring for a movie once in a while, which we never do. With my husband’s busy work schedule these times are so crucial for us to be able to reconnect!
October 2, 2014 at 5:39 am
a plane ticket to Greece would be the most fabulous thing in the world. I’ve wanted to go since the 7th grade when we learned about Greek mythology and I couldn’t imagine anything better!
October 2, 2014 at 5:41 am
My dreamt up award would be a plane ticket to visit my long distance girlfriend… living 3,000 miles apart (East Coast to West Coast, as far away as possible and still in the United States). The time we get to spend together is so precious. So even just a weekend getaway; I would make that 11 hour flight just to see her for a couple of days. With the leftover money, I would take her out to eat and to a movie. Regular date stuff made special just ’cause of all that distance
October 2, 2014 at 5:43 am
A weekend away with my husband. A very much needed weekend away. Thank you for the chance! Jenni
Charity says:
October 2, 2014 at 5:45 am
My $1000 prize would be well spent on: a shiny, new digital camera for filming and snapping photos, and the leftover change would surely be spent at a thrift store on a tiny treasure.
October 2, 2014 at 5:58 am
I have four siblings, and we all live in different cities–DC, Chicago, Oklahoma City, Talahassee, Gainsville, FL. With $1000 to spend freely, I’d buy four plane tickets–one to visit each one of them! My family’s really close, and it’s been difficult living so far-flung!
Mar says:
October 2, 2014 at 6:02 am
My husband has never been to New York! I know it sounds crazy since we live on the east coast, but I would love to surprise him with the trip of a lifetime! We would walk in Central Park, take the subway all over the city, sit at a rooftop bar, and be touristy in Times Square! He has done so much for me, I would love to be able to treat him with this special trip.
October 2, 2014 at 6:07 am
I would go to Blogshop!!!
October 2, 2014 at 6:07 am
For the last 2 years, my husband and I have been paying down credit card debt we accrued in college/graduate school. Every extra cent goes to paying it off. We want to start a family, but are hesitant to start trying until we have this debt under our belts. A $1,000 payment would help ease the stress so much and get us one step closer to family member #3
olivia says:
October 2, 2014 at 6:09 am
Sarah says:
October 2, 2014 at 6:09 am
Right now my biggest travel desire is a road trip with my boyfriend to New Orleans. By far one of the most magical places in the US and the closest thing to traveling out of the country while still being here. I want to go and try on masks in the quarter, see my family grave, wander the streets where my grandpa grew up and share all of it with that boyfriend. (And obviously stuff my face with beignets and all the cajun food I can get my hands on.)
Abby says:
October 2, 2014 at 6:11 am
If I won $1,000 I would love to go on a relaxing getaway! My husband and I own our own small business and work together and it’s rare that we get an opportunity to escape and fully relax.
Jane says:
October 2, 2014 at 6:12 am
It’s so hard to choose, but I’d probably treat myself to the Kitchen Aid mixer that I’ve been lusting over for years and a plane ticket to visit my best friend in San Francisco.
October 2, 2014 at 6:12 am
A plane ticket to Hawaii would be a dream come true :))
October 2, 2014 at 6:13 am
I’d take myself to somewhere magical and stay forever–maybe a surf camp in south america? or a yoga retreat in india? Travelling for 1000 is my specialty and a nice big get away is just what the doctor ordered for 2014.
October 2, 2014 at 6:14 am
I would buy a trendy couch that I normally couldn’t afford for years for my new apartment!
Lina says:
October 2, 2014 at 6:16 am
My dream of Paris. I’ve wanted to go my whole life, and due to other travel, work and the rest of my life, it has gotten put on hold for one reason or another. A dream give-away like this would make that dream a reality FINALLY <3
Allison says:
October 2, 2014 at 6:22 am
My best friend Mollie moved to Winter Park, FL with her husband about three years ago and I’ve only been able to see her once. I’d love for my husband and I to be able to fly down there and Mollie and I spend the evening at the Park Plaza hotel while the boys stay at their home.
Meghan says:
October 2, 2014 at 6:23 am
I was leaving a meeting with some pretty high up folks in my company two weeks ago and on my way out, my long suffering work bag’s handles just gave out and all of my things tumbled to the floor. Since then, I’ve been carrying my work things in an old gap leather tote that has seen better days. If I had a $1000, I would replace my dingy bag with something beautiful and professional and eye catching. With whatever is left over? I would go out and grab a pair of repetto ballet flats. Because they make every day better!
Maddie says:
October 2, 2014 at 6:25 am
honestly? probably a gift card to target. I know that’s not the most exciting thing in the world but on a college student budget with college student debt, it’s hard to even think about things like luxury handbags or a vacation. A trip to target to get some new things for my bedroom and replace shoes/jeans with holes would make me about as happy as can be.
October 2, 2014 at 6:25 am
My dream would be a surprise trip to Europe for my husband and I. He supports my dreams – even if it means he has to work a little harder – and never asks for anything in return. I have never been out of the U.S., and I would love the chance to experience the life there with him!
October 2, 2014 at 6:27 am
I would splurge on a spa day, and then use the rest of it to have a massage once a month as long as it will take me.
Mary Ann says:
October 2, 2014 at 6:31 am
Some new workout gear! Currently on a health kick and would love some fresh duds.
Annette says:
October 2, 2014 at 6:31 am
I would buy a ticket for my mom to go to Hawaii to visit my brother. My brother is in the Navy and hasn’t been able to come home to visit us for the past year and a half that he’s been stationed there, and we don’t have the extra money to travel that far. I would give anything to give my mother the chance to travel to see my brother.
Shannon says:
October 2, 2014 at 6:32 am
I am getting married in January and my fiance and I will be moving in to our new home together. We are in desperate need of a new couch to snuggle on after a long day of work, to watch movies on rainy days, or to take long Sunday naps. (And to replace the futon he’s had since college that is currently serving as our only seating option).
October 2, 2014 at 6:33 am
My world would taste as good as diet coke if I could swing a girls trip with my sister and mom! Would love for us to go on a local adventure to New Orleans, as that’s where my mom is originally from! The $1,000 prize would help get us there and start our adventure!
October 2, 2014 at 6:33 am
well first of all, great giveaway! i lovvvvve diet coke!
what would i do with 1,000 bucks?hands down, without a doubt, i would buy a bed for my new house! after years of moving and sticking to the same bed we’ve had since college – it’s time for an upgrade!
October 2, 2014 at 6:34 am
My husband and I just bought a house, and there’s so much to do! I’d use it to improve it so we get our dream home so much sooner
Nancy says:
October 2, 2014 at 6:35 am
I would visit my sister and we would stay in a nice hotel, eat good food, and get pampered in the spa. We both work hard. It would be nice to relax.
October 2, 2014 at 6:35 am
I would use the money to take my boyfriend to Hawaii…he’s never seen the ocean!!
October 2, 2014 at 6:36 am
I would host A HUGE party for the holidays, no expenses spared…Invite the entire family, great times!!!
Beth says:
October 2, 2014 at 6:36 am
New flooring for our living area and some scones to replace our lamps…and maybe a few cases of diet coke ; )
October 2, 2014 at 6:36 am
As a classic girl, there are few purchases that will last longer than simple pair of Louboutin pumps. With the money left over, I’d treat myself to a lavish dinner for me and my friends (while wearing the pumps of course).
Jillian says:
October 2, 2014 at 6:39 am
I would buy plane tickets to San Francisco, and one night in a fancy hotel, to spend some much needed heart to heart time with a friend who I haven’t seen in a long time and who is needing support at this time!
October 2, 2014 at 6:41 am
I would use it to pay for a flight to visit my family in Italy
Mel says:
October 2, 2014 at 6:42 am
i’ve always always wanted to head out for date night with my hubs and instead of going to our typical dinner and movie, just drive to the airport and grab any flight that’s about to go out! we’d spend maybe just one night – or however long we could afford – exploring whatever random city we ended up in!
Emily M says:
October 2, 2014 at 6:43 am
I would have a heated floor and new tile installed in our bathroom! It would be such a luxury on cold Chicago winter mornings.
Elizabeth says:
October 2, 2014 at 6:44 am
plane tickets for my sister to come visit me. And then tickets to a concert by her favorite band.
October 2, 2014 at 6:47 am
One of those visa gift cards that can be used pretty much anywhere. Ive always wanted to have a shopping spree because im very frugal and try to save most of my money. However, it would be nice to splurge for once!
Meegan says:
October 2, 2014 at 6:51 am
Plane Tickets somewhere in the US. My husband and I have been trying to pay off loans and we haven’t had a lot of time to go on an adventure!
Cathy M says:
October 2, 2014 at 6:52 am
Honestly, I’d rather gift my Mom with a plane ticket to Italy. She has wanted to go for so long, but is now on a limited income and hasn’t been able to justify the cost to herself for a plane ticket to get there.
October 2, 2014 at 6:54 am
I would love a Frye company bag, and some cute moccasins for the little one!
Britt says:
October 2, 2014 at 6:57 am
What an amazing giveaway! I’d buy a new bed. We’ve lived in our current place for 4 years and haven’t even begun to decorate the bedroom or make it feel inviting. A new bed would be a great start!
October 2, 2014 at 6:58 am
I work across the street from the Nomad Hotel, and I’ve always fantasized about having a staycation there. I’d go right after work, have dinner and drinks in their beautiful restaurant, take a luxurious bath, and have breakfast in bed.
October 2, 2014 at 6:59 am
Embarrassingly enough, I’m still rocking the hand me down furniture that I got in college. It’s extremely outdated and I’m ready to move on from it! I think starting with the couch and then adding pieces that tickle my fancy from there would be the perfect way to go You gals rock!
Jen says:
October 2, 2014 at 6:59 am
I would put it towards decorating the bedroom in my apartment.
October 2, 2014 at 7:01 am
Hello! Getting a taste of my dream is to update my apartment painting studio with a new work station and shelving that can hold multiple painting projects. I work with fluid acrylics and soak paper over and over. I would love to have more space for the work to dry while I am working on other paintings simultaneously. Better lighting for this room, and overall storage space that is minimal, organized, and inspiring to look at would be a spectacular dream come true! Thank you for the opportunity to maybe get a taste! NP from Chicago
October 2, 2014 at 7:04 am
Gosh…I would treat myself to a trip back home to Boston to spend time with my family and especially niece and nephew who I rarely see and who are growing up before my eyes. And, I wouldn’t feel guilty about taking the vacation days that I hoard.
Elizabeth says:
October 2, 2014 at 7:05 am
I’ll be 30 in February and am planning a party weekend with friends. It would be so nice to be able to cover everything – or at least most of everything!
October 2, 2014 at 7:06 am
The $1000 would go towards new furniture and decor for my dream apartment!
October 2, 2014 at 7:07 am
Travel! I want to spend more time seeing new places. I live in LA, but have never been to SF, so that’s next on my list!
Hana says:
October 2, 2014 at 7:09 am
I’d visit my grandparents in Beijing. I haven’t been able to see them in 2 years because I live in NYC!
Lynne says:
October 2, 2014 at 7:11 am
I would splurge on a beautiful new rug for my living room! It’s so much fun to update your space. Every time you walk into the room it put’s a smile on your face. When you do these things slowly you can really pick out the perfect thing and remember exactly why and when and with who you bought it. I love special memories like that.
October 2, 2014 at 7:14 am
A plane ticket to Greece. Not only is it gorgeous – and, hello, *cheese* vendors on the street – but I’ve never visited due to financial constraints (or traveled internationally, for that matter). My family is there, and I want to meet them. And, as a painter, I can’t even imagine the direction this would take my portfolio. Please help, Diet Coke & Bri!
October 2, 2014 at 7:17 am
My boyfriend and I have been dying to go to Iceland to hike, photograph and take in the unworldly scenery. Plane tickets to Iceland would be amazing!
Laura says:
October 2, 2014 at 7:17 am
I would want a beautiful fall weekend out of NYC! We would rent a car and drive up to Hudson, NY. Have dinner at Fish & Game, go antiquing for the perfect souvenir and stay at The Barlow. Ah, just dreaming of that sounds wonderful.
Jac says:
October 2, 2014 at 7:18 am
I’m going to give you the nerdiest response ever, but whatever.
I would bring my family together for Thanksgiving. A sister & her two kids in Georgia, a sister and her S/O in Iowa, my husband & I in Virginia Beach, and my Dad in New York. I’d rent a cabin somewhere in the blue mountains, fly my sisters and their families in, and have my Dad drive down. It would be the first time that all of us were together in 3 years when we weren’t totally focused on my mom’s illness or passing, and it would be glorious.
Sarah says:
October 2, 2014 at 7:18 am
I would treat myself to a trip to the San Juan Islands, including a cute airbnb, kyaking and a good girlfriend!
Kimberly says:
October 2, 2014 at 7:30 am
A trip to another country or a remodeled kitchen would be great!
October 2, 2014 at 7:33 am
i would use the g to go on a weekend getaway to Charleston, SC. My husband and I haven’t been to a beach since our honeymoon 3 years ago, and we’ve daydreamed of going to Charleston to experience to sun, sand, history, and food, food being the most important part! Good luck all!
October 2, 2014 at 7:34 am
If I won $1000, I’d use it to take my boyfriend on a romantic weekend getaway to a cute BnB in Cape May. Included would be snuggling in front of a fireplace and walking on the beach and some delicious indulgent dinners. Maybe even a trip to the spa
October 2, 2014 at 7:34 am
I’ve always wanted a pair of Manolo Blahnik d’Orsay pumps. No particular style in mind, but the d’Orsay is key. If not that, I could use a decent DSLR for my shop and general photography because my iPhone isn’t cutting it anymore.
October 2, 2014 at 7:35 am
One thing I have always wanted to do was go to Ikea or West Elm and fix up my mother’s kitchen. She keeps a beat up bedroom dresser in the kitchen to store her food! She works 6 days a week and refuses to treat herself! I have been eyeing something like this..
I’ve talked about re-painting and fixing up her kitchen for YEARS but never had a chance to do it. It would make me feel so good to know she comes home to a beautiful kitchen we can spend Sundays in cooking together! For me, that’s the GOOD LIFE.
Tammy says:
October 2, 2014 at 7:36 am
Oh man… $1,000. I think my dreamt up prize would be a new bed/bed frame/mattress down payment. It’s the ONE THING I put off doing for myself and I use it 1/3 of everyday. Silly, uh.
October 2, 2014 at 7:38 am
I would get a plane ticket to India to attend the Iyengar Yoga Workshop in December. I’ve been wanting to go there for yearssssssss. They don’t have it often, it is such a special opportunity!!!
Maria says:
October 2, 2014 at 7:40 am
My dream would be to give my parents a great housewarming gift. Since I am half Chilean, it would be wonderful to give them a rug made by the Mapuche people. These are quite expensive, and my husband and I are teachers. I know this would mean the world to them to own such a piece for the new home. They are currently downsizing and have provided my husband and me so much support. They have made many opportunities possible for us that otherwise would not be. It would be wonderful to use this giveaway prize to return the favor! Thanks for the great giveaway!
Katia says:
October 2, 2014 at 7:42 am
Bri, if I win, I would buy anew dsrl camera and lenses as my equipment got stolen from my husbands car. He is a film student, so this will help him so much! He wouldn’t have to borrow his classmates equipment anymore!
October 2, 2014 at 7:43 am
We’ve been putting off getting engaged and married for seven (!!!) years because splurging on a ring just doesn’t fit into our financial situation right now. Slipping a (tasteful and unique) rock onto my ring finger without feeling guilty for not putting those funds toward expenses would be so liberating and exciting.
Thanks for the amazing giveaway!
Alex says:
October 2, 2014 at 7:45 am
A couple months ago I lost one of my dogs in a very tragic accident that brought lots of heartache to me and my partner. We miss her everyday, and if I won, I’d love to be able to adopt another rescue dog so my other dog, Gus, wouldn’t be so lonely, and hopefully help heal some of the pain from losing our little girl. With the remainder of the money I’d love to go somewhere with my partner and dogs. Maybe a cabin in upstate New York. Just a little getaway for rest and relaxation.
Leah says:
October 2, 2014 at 7:45 am
I’d buy two one way tickets to Wellington New Zealand for my husband and I. We’ve been saving for a chance to live outside of the US for a while now and well, that’d be a great push!
October 2, 2014 at 7:48 am
i absolutely LOVE this idea. i am all about spending money on experiences…I’ve been wanting to do a fall weekend trip up east, so i’d definitely spend the $1000 on flights/a weekend in either boston or maine.
Sharon says:
October 2, 2014 at 7:48 am
I would totally use it to take my parents on a vacation. They deserve it!
Hilary says:
October 2, 2014 at 7:53 am
I’ve always dreamed of flying out to California to attend one of your workshops, Bri! That’s a luxury I’ll probably never be able to afford, but as a Graphic Designer, it’s been at the top of my wish list since I started following your blog back in 2010! I’m so inspired by everything you do.
October 2, 2014 at 7:53 am
I am going to Paris for the first time in May and I would love some spending money for my trip!!!! PS- diet coke is everything!
October 2, 2014 at 7:54 am
I think I would either buy myself a new camera so I could take awesome high quality pics for my blog just like you Bri! Or maybe send myself to Blogshop!
October 2, 2014 at 7:54 am
I have a crazy idea of my boyfriend and I moving to Thailand. We’re 2 years out of college, and needing to explore the world and other cultures to find a path for our lives. $1000 would cover our plan flights to Thailand! Then…who knows! That’s the beauty
October 2, 2014 at 7:55 am
I’d buy a mirrorless camera with video capabilities. I’ve been dreaming of breaking into art, film, photography, but art is an expensive field to break into. The camera would be the perfect boost to help me overcome my fear of new things and just go and do.
Avery says:
October 2, 2014 at 7:55 am
With one grand – I would buy a plane ticket to visit my most loved people in my life at home.
October 2, 2014 at 7:55 am
A round trip ticket to Europe! I love getting a taste of the world!
Clare says:
October 2, 2014 at 7:56 am
A grand still buys a small pair of diamond studs. The sort of non-essential that is NOT falling in the budget right now. They’d just feel so, so lux. And go with everything.
Lucy says:
October 2, 2014 at 7:56 am
I would pay for my parents’ plane tickets to wherever they wanted to go. They never take vacations just for themselves (where they are not also working or taking care of other people), so I would really love to just gift them this opportunity to just think of themselves!
October 2, 2014 at 7:57 am
I would put that $1000 towards a beach vacation for me, my hubby, and son. I want to show him the ocean, the way I remember it when he was in my belly.
October 2, 2014 at 7:57 am
I would put it towards a ticket to Gulu Uganda <3 I visited and have been so anxious to get back. xo
Michelle says:
October 2, 2014 at 7:58 am
I would book a weekend away for our five year anniversary…complete with massages and a fancy dinner out.
October 2, 2014 at 7:58 am
This is such an awesome giveaway! Thanks for the chance! With $1000 I would my dream camera!
Maya shaw says:
October 2, 2014 at 7:59 am
As a college student graduating in the spring I study fashion design. After working in New York over the summer for my internship I fell in love with the city and I have plans to move there right after school! I would use this $1000 to go towards my first months rent in the city that truly makes me feel like the happiest girl in the world.
Emma says:
October 2, 2014 at 7:59 am
It will be me and my husband’s first year wedding anniversary this coming December and we would love to take a trip somewhere we haven’t been since we did not get to have our honeymoon last year. It will be a dream come true!!!
Lindsey says:
October 2, 2014 at 7:59 am
I would finally get a tattoo with my sister, and stow the rest away for the trip we’re planning to Scotland! Permanent ink and sister time – what could be better?
Alex says:
October 2, 2014 at 7:59 am
A weekend get away to Tulum!
Nicole M says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:00 am
I’d buy a new handbag and wallet. I’ve been wanting a new one for a long time now, but guilt always settles in and I don’t end up getting it.
October 2, 2014 at 8:00 am
I would spend a few nights at my favorite hotel in Santa Cruz, right on the beach, just reading and lazing by the pool without a care in the world!
October 2, 2014 at 8:00 am
My husband works full-time and is in school full-time. Between our two paychecks, it’s still not enough. Luckily, we’re scrappy and get creative with ways to save money. I can’t tell you what a relief it would be to win this money. A little breathing room would feel better than any expensive purse.
October 2, 2014 at 8:01 am
Nice post. I learn something totally new and challenging on websites I stumbleupon every day.
It will always be useful to read through articles from other authors
and practice something from other websites.
October 2, 2014 at 8:01 am
I would use the money for my birthday trip! In may,I turn 29 and while I’m not exactly excited about the number, I am excited about spending a week away from real life with my close friends and also my parents. Were all planning a trip to Tulum and the 1,000 would be very helpful!
Libby says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:01 am
I’ve always imagined a trip to Europe when I finish grad school (May 2015) to see all of the amazing artwork that I’ve studied. A plane ticket to London to get me started really would be a dream come true!
October 2, 2014 at 8:01 am
I would purchase some sort of clothing storage system for my house as leaving them on my guest day bed and bathroom radiator isn’t really any sort of system. I have an old house that has small bedrooms and very little storage so purchasing some sort of armoir or closet system for my guest bedroom would be amazingly helpful.
October 2, 2014 at 8:02 am
If I won this prize I would use the money to buy a plane ticket to Puerto Rico and spend time with my family. I do not get to see them often and with a tight budget I do not think I will be able to visit them any time soon. This would be great since my grandmother is getting old in age and my cousins are growing up so quick. A trip to the island would be a dream. Scuba diving, hanging out on the beach and relaxing is exactly what I need!
Michelle says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:02 am
A thousand dollars would pay for my bills for the month, which would result in less anxiety attacks, a good night’s rest, and maybe I’ll finally get to see my friends in San Diego! I live in Phoenix now, and I haven’t been back for 5 years now.
October 2, 2014 at 8:02 am
Plane tickets for a relaxing get-a-way. Starting a small business and having a baby all in the same year leaves little time for each other. It would be great to connect and explore a beautiful location. We’ve had our eyes set on Whistler, BC!
Logan says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:03 am
My life has been a little hectic lately, I graduated college and (finally) got my license but I’ve found my stuff stuck in a rut. Student loans looming over my head, no job, and defeat in my voice with the dreaded “so, what do you want to do now that you’ve graduated college?!” question. The real answer is that I just want to travel.
$1,000 could take me pretty much anywhere in the US and I’m not so sure where I’d want to visit most! I’ve always had a dream of Alaska but I found apart of myself in California two summers ago and wouldn’t mind heading back. Hell, a road trip to New Orleans sounds incredible!
October 2, 2014 at 8:03 am
If I were to win the $1000 prize, I’d throw myself a way over-due birthday party that my family and friends can enjoy and have a great time at. My birthday is December 31 and I haven’t celebrated my birthday the traditional way (with all of my loved ones present) since I was, probably, 18 years and old and I’ll be turning 27 this year. With the prize money, I’ll be able to throw an awesome birthday party where I and my favorite people can celebrate the gift of life, love, and friendship. Good luck to everyone who has entered this awesome contest!
October 2, 2014 at 8:05 am
If you have an election related issue you’d like to see explored,
please let me know. This is a competitive advantage for sports betting businesses because
the options that it gives are more than what anybody
expects. Some Asians prefer the long tedious
hours playing Mahjong while others gamble heavily on Toto or more
popularly known as Lotto in Europe.
October 2, 2014 at 8:06 am
If I won this contest I would love a check that we could put towards our adoption fees. We cannot wait to have a child and this would really help accelerate the process!
October 2, 2014 at 8:06 am
My absolute favourite place in the world is Burlington, VT, and I really wanted to visit this fall and bring my best friend along, who’s never been there. I want her to experience how magical it is and understand why I get all starry-eyes every time I talk about it. If I won, I’d visit with her and show her everything I experienced while I lived there.
October 2, 2014 at 8:06 am
I would take my best friend to Nashville! We’ve been dreaming about making the trip forever but it’s hard to convince a newlywed to go on a girls-only trip, even for a long weekend! But fun music, biscuits and some good old Southern charm is good for the soul.
October 2, 2014 at 8:06 am
I would love a plane ticket to Scotland to visit my brother and two friends! They all are there doing a year of service and being able to visit them would mean the world to me! I am a college student with no money and beig able to visit them would literally be a dream come true!
Mara says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:07 am
I’d love to have $1000 to do a little shopping and pick up clothing that works post-baby.
October 2, 2014 at 8:07 am
My favorite place in the world is honestly in my own bed. It is my personal sanctuary away from the world where I can create my own dreams and clear my head. If I were to win this $1,000 prize, I would spend it spoiling my bed. A super plump & lush mattress to adorn this extrememly cute bed frame I just bought for my new apartment. To match, a comfortable so soft I could feel like im sleeping on a cloud everynight. With this prize I would be able to create my magical cuddly getaway. <3
October 2, 2014 at 8:08 am
A mid-century dinner room set, with pair of white eames chair and a nice round rug underneath.
October 2, 2014 at 8:08 am
DEFINITELY a surfboard! I’d be grindin up on that wood. Seriously what better way to feel renewed and refreshed (like diet coke wink) than to catch some waves??
Kate says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:08 am
I’m a graphic designer, but I have a cheap computer and photoshop elements. I make do with what I have, but owning all of Adobe’s design programs would be amazing. With new programs, I could create *anything* to my heart’s content. Also coding programs, so I can learn how to code like a pro! Winning this would kick start my dreams for becoming a full time designer.
Amber says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:09 am
$1000? Hmmmm…my mind jumps to putting that money towards a plane ticket to Australia.I have yet been able to fly back with my boyfriend to visit his family and home country because the funds are not there. But, my health has taken the turn for the worse this past year, and I am making some huge changes in my lifestyle. One thing I really need is a new mattress to help with my back and sleeping issues. Not just any mattress though, I want a non-toxic IntelliBed
Brenda says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:09 am
I would buy a wide format printer so that I can continue my goal of starting a small card company and take a handful of classes on hand lettering, illustration and different techniques, upgrade my computer system and get an adobe cloud subscription and purchase a Rosetta Stone set, because greetings in more than one language are always fun! yay diet coke + bri! thanks for the opportunity!
Carrie says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:09 am
Honestly? Honestly I would love to shop without constantly worrying about my budget. If I won this contest, I would match right down to Town Center with my diet coke (:) and funnel money right back into the market(; And I would shop to my hearts content at a few of my favorite stores.
October 2, 2014 at 8:09 am
My husband is addicted to diet coke…no grocery trip is complete without it and cans fill up our recycling bin every week. He says it’s his way of relaxing and his one true vice and with that in mind I would love to use the money to take a trip. I am currently pregnant with baby number two and have been itching to go on a babymoon. We didn’t take one the first time around and this time around it feels especially important as we haven’t had much time or energy to devote to us as opposed to other life things in general. I would love to go somewhere quiet where we can see the stars. There is a house I found in the middle of the desert I would love to rent so we could get away from everything for a few days.
Allison says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:09 am
With $1000, I’d buy two plane tickets to Seattle, a ferry ride to Victoria, B.C., and a couple night’s stay in an adorable airbnb home.
My sweetheart and I are overdue for a trip and nothing sounds lovelier than bundling up and exploring a beautiful city together.
October 2, 2014 at 8:10 am
It’s always travel for me (or travel + food)! I’d grab a plane to Japan and hopefully have enough left over to eat at one of the cheap but delicious Kaiten Sushi in Tokyo. My mouth is watering just thinking about it
October 2, 2014 at 8:11 am
I would love to donate half to a local dog shelter to help contribute in anyway possible, and use the other half to get a portrait tattoo of my chihuahua, that I’ve always wanted!
October 2, 2014 at 8:11 am
I would give the $1,000 to my parents! They have helped me in more ways than I can count!
Hannah says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:11 am
Realistically if I won I would put the money towards art school! But let’s be real, if I were to win id take myself to New York to find some internships and maybe do a little shopping
October 2, 2014 at 8:12 am
I so badly want to grab my sister and go to the Avett Brothers New Year’s Eve show in North Carolina. . . one night, one awesome concert – now that would an experience
October 2, 2014 at 8:12 am
i would take my mom for a full spa day, just the two of us!
Sarah says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:13 am
I would rent a cabin or house in the woods for a few days, somewhere close enough that my older brother and sister and their families could travel to meet at the house. We haven’t seen each other in years, like over 10, let alone been in the same place together all at once. We all live on opposite coasts. My mom would be completely ecstatic that all of her kids and her 4 grand babies were all together, too. My dad hasn’t even gotten to meet my youngest niece yet, so really everyone has a reason to be together and the $1000 would greatly help make this happen! I can’t think of anything better than my family to spend that kind of money on so we
Can all be together finally even for just a few days.
Sarah says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:13 am
I would plan a surprise anniversary trip for my husband and I. We have been trying to save and keep to a strict budget, so a stress free vacation would be amazing
October 2, 2014 at 8:16 am
What an AWESOME giveaway. I would love to take the $1000 and fly to LA with my boyfriend to meet his parents for the first time, and then spend a week there! They can’t travel the distance because of their age, and we’re both trying to save and pay off loans at home. Would be amazing to win!
October 2, 2014 at 8:17 am
I would use the money to buy this beautiful wooden bed frame I have been coveting for over a year. I have never had a proper bed frame since moving away from home, and it would make me feel like such a grown up!
October 2, 2014 at 8:18 am
So if I had an extra $1000 lying around I’d definitely spring for a brand new bed (queen-size) for just me and the Mr. At the moment we’re in a king size and have 2 daughters and have been co-sleeping for practically four years. So why on earth would we want a smaller bed right?! Because mama is ready to have her man back! Less room in the bed = more snuggle time for me!
October 2, 2014 at 8:18 am
definitely a plane ticket to Thailand, I studied abroad in Bangkok for seven months and have not stopped dreaming about returning since then!
Jess says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:18 am
I’m transitioning to working for myself full time in the next year, and $1000 would go in to investing in a business coach!
October 2, 2014 at 8:18 am
My dream would be for my boyfriend and I to take our daughter to Disney world. She’s always wanted to go but we just can’t justify a trip when we have so many repairs to do around the house and a credit card we are working hard to pay off. That would seriously be such an exhilarating experience for my family!
October 2, 2014 at 8:19 am
$1000? How fun! As a newlywed, I’ve watched my new husband work so hard for our family. He’s graduated college, survived a wedding with me, and goes to work bright and early every morning to support the two of us. I’d love to be able to give back to him! With a vacation, or an update to his wardrobe, or to put toward his musical hobby. Anything he likes!
Annie says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:19 am
I would buy a fancy new couch and take this lumpy brown thing to the dump!
kim boswell says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:19 am
My fiancé and I have had the same terrible mattress for about 7 years now. We did not buy it new, as we couldn’t afford it. Instead, my friend sold us hers – which she had since high school! The mattress is easily over ten years old, is only a full size mattress (a queen would be amazing, a king size would be incredible!). We have had to put off buying a real mattress because, well, life happens. I believe it would be life changing to have a beautiful, new, large king size mattress and bed. Currently ours is simply on top of a box spring which is on the floor. I can only dream of the perfect full nights sleep we would both have. It really would be life changing!
October 2, 2014 at 8:20 am
I’d love a weekend trip to Austin for my family of four. We just had our second baby and would love a fun getaway that gives us quality family time.
Jenny says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:21 am
A new bathroom steam shower for sure! No more shower curtains sticking to you while you clean up – ewww.
Grace says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:22 am
I would spend the $1000 on a trip to Europe. I studied abroad there and have dreamt of going back ever since. I also have friends and family I would love to go visit as well.
October 2, 2014 at 8:22 am
My husband spent a semester abroad in London and loved it. We’ve been dreaming of a trip back, but it’s always just been “someday.” I would use the money to help take him there for his birthday. $1000 would be a huge jumpstart to our travel fund.
October 2, 2014 at 8:22 am
With $1000, I would buy the materials to build the studio my husband and I can’t afford right now. We have big dreams of expanding our studio outside of our house and out on our farm, but haven’t had enough saved to start our dream project! A thousand bucks would go a long way in this project!
October 2, 2014 at 8:22 am
I would use the money to take my fiance to this wonderful, totally romantic little inn in Big Sur for the weekend called Deetjens.
Joyce says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:23 am
We would use the prize to elope! (Trip to Chinati Mountains)
Caitlin says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:24 am
I’d love a new set of dishes and flatware for my kitchen. Mine are mismatched hand me downs that I inherited during college, and I’ve been out of school for almost 6 years now. Other things keep coming up and taking priority. This would be the perfect excuse to upgrade!
October 2, 2014 at 8:24 am
Oh how fun…. While I should probably use the $1000 on our kitchen remodel, what I really want to use it for is toward taking my husband to Italy/Greece. He has never been and he adores history… Would love to show him the beauty there! If I couldn’t do that, I might use it for new countertops in our kitchen! XOXO Great blog, fun giveaway!
October 2, 2014 at 8:25 am
I’m lying in bed looking at my Pinterest board ‘special places’ and dreaming of going somewhere special. Ahhhh I could do this every day! I would pick Iceland. A $1000 can get me an airplane ticket to Iceland for an experience of a lifetime!
kate says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:26 am
I would use the $1,000 to buy (one) of our plane tickets to Greece for our honeymoon!! Any extra would help pay for the second…hey, it’s not a honeymoon if you’re by yourself It would be amazing to have extra money for flights!
Sarah says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:27 am
My heart forever aches to return to the place that overflows my heart and mind with infinite inspiration. A destination where the north woods and great lakes meet upon a town if only to reacquaint oneself with a childlike sense wonder set deep within the soul. A majestic melody of lush forest, jutting rock and soft blue waves crashing gently upon a shore that flourishes into the sloping town set upon a hill, Duluth, MN. It is here that I would love a getaway for a few days to relax, be filled with inspiration and enjoy a taste of the good life.
October 2, 2014 at 8:27 am
Definitely a fall or winter mini-vacation of some kind…NYC for the first time or something beachy like Costa Rica or Cabo. I am itching for a vacation!!
October 2, 2014 at 8:29 am
Oh I would hop a plane somewhere… ANYWHERE that feeds my wanderlust.
Somewhere new, that I’ve never been before. Somewhere with a story to hear. Somewhere to be experienced and explored.
October 2, 2014 at 8:30 am
I would love the 1000 dollars so my husband and I don’t have to stay at his brothers house (on the couch) while were in Hawaii for our late 1st anniversary… Hotels are a treat and that is where the 1000 would go!
Cathya says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:30 am
With my $1,000 prize I would use it to give a down payment on my first car! I am twenty two years old and I just graduated college this past summer and finally will have the opportunity to go car shopping & walk out with a car of my own. I would totally use the money to make that first payment and make this dream more of a reality RIGHT NOW. I am blessed in every single way xo.
October 2, 2014 at 8:33 am
My husband and I both work 6 sometimes 7 days a week. A nice relaxing vacation, maybe to Mexico or wine country, to help us recharge and step away from “busy” for a few days.
October 2, 2014 at 8:33 am
A wedding dress.. my fiancé and I just decided to elope on our 5 year anniversary on Oct 30. With that kind of cash I would knock his socks off with a stunning white dress
October 2, 2014 at 8:34 am
I would spend it on a fancy hotel and dinners out during the trip I just booked to Paris for next spring (plane fare is already paid for, so $1,000 should just cover the rest of it!)
vanessa joie says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:34 am
I would love, love, LOVE a good camera. I have has my eye on Cannon’s Rebel EOS SL1. As I’ve started blogging again I miss having a decent camera. There’s also a pretty Chloe disc necklace I’ve had my eye on.
Thanks, Bri for this amazing giveaway!
Meghan says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:35 am
It’s been a rough year, starting with a car accident and ending with a friend/roommate bullying me out of my own apartment. I would spend the money on fixing up the yard of the place I’ll be moving into–some comfortable chairs, a table with an umbrella, a BBQ, and some pretty lights. I want my home to be peaceful, relaxing, and a nice place to hang out. And with California winters being mild, I can enjoy my yard all year round.
Eliza says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:36 am
Eek so fun!! I would either use it to buy my husband & I tix to NYC to visit his siblings and just explore the city together (something we’ve always wanted to do) or out it towards a ticket to visit my gf who just moved to London. Either way, some sort of travel!!
October 2, 2014 at 8:37 am
My boyfriend and I have been so busy as of late, he is working 96 hour weeks (fireman) and I am preparing to go back to graduate school, that we could really use some time to slow down and re-connect. While we are planning a trip to Cambodia in the spring, a $1000 bonus would be great to get us out on a nice 3 day weekend to wine country for now.
Carolyn says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:38 am
I’ve been on the hunt for a chic winter wardrobe. I go to ski in Whistler every year and always feel so frumpy next to all the well dressed women. I’d love a nice and chic pair of snow boots with coat, hat and clothes to match.
October 2, 2014 at 8:39 am
My son passed away unexpectedly in August. It’s been brutal. But there is still so much goodness in my life. I’d love to grab my loved ones and get a nice beach house for the weekend. To celebrate all that we still have…
Wendy says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:39 am
I would definitely use the money to take my brother and his family with us on our yearly weekend to Gatlinburg, TN. My brother works so hard and never gets to do anything fun so I woud love to treat him!
October 2, 2014 at 8:40 am
I’d surprise my husband with a trip to San Francisco and reservations at all the restaurants we want to go to there! We’ve been hoping to go ever since we moved to LA five years ago, but money and time and going at “the right time” have always stood in our way. The right time is now!
October 2, 2014 at 8:40 am
If I had $1000 around, I would visit my sister in Texas. Plan, a getaway in Austin. Rent a room at a nice hotel. bond over good food & Drinks. Buy ourselves a new outfit. Go to a country music show. Visit Dallas & see my cousin.
Maddie says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:40 am
This is fun! I would use it to buy a new lens for my camera that I’ve had my eye on for…forever. Would be amazing!
October 2, 2014 at 8:41 am
I would love to get a plane ticket to my hometown. Although some of us yearn to get away, I yearn to get back “home” for the Holidays – when flights are ridiculously expensive (usually $500-600, now around $1,000 – grrr!).
October 2, 2014 at 8:43 am
As lame as this may sound, I would pay off a credit card. That would make me smile forever. I hate debt, evens little.
October 2, 2014 at 8:44 am
The thing that would make me the most happy – even bubbly – would be to fly from Chicago to Oakland to visit my best friend and take a trip with her down to Big Sur to stay two nights in a yurt along the beautiful California coast. I’ve always wanted to see Big Sur and the ocean feeds my soul, so it would be amazing to share it with my best friend who I don’t get to see but once a year!
Tammy says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:44 am
I am trying to increase my business as a freelance graphic artist, so my dream would be to use the funds to update my office space. I would invest in some cute storage solutions that would make the space more user friendly AND inspirational.
Kate says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:44 am
I’m a broke, recent college graduate with dreams of becoming a writer. If I had a disposable $1,000, I’d definitely spend it on a writer’s retreat to finish my novel.
October 2, 2014 at 8:46 am
I would grab my twin sister and take that trip to Ireland we’ve always talked about! Just to see those rolling green hills, hear those accents, and drink a pint of Guiness in a real pub! SWOON….
October 2, 2014 at 8:46 am
What an awesome giveaway! I would love to pamper my mom for her birthday, on the 10th! She deserves the world, but since that’s not possible, $1000 would help a ton.
October 2, 2014 at 8:46 am
If I had a $1000 to spend, I would go to Texas & visit my sister. I would then, plan a getaway with her to Austin. Buy ourselves an outfit & attend a country music show. Have a nice dinner & drinks. Visit our cousin in Dallas & grab dinner with her. The three of us end the time at a spa. Where we all get massages. Xx
October 2, 2014 at 8:47 am
My hubby and I have had a rough go. Unemployment, and unexpected expenses have made making ends meet, well not something easily done! We had saved 1100 dollars to buy a new mattress until all the crazy happened and the money was needed else where. With a thousand dollars I would surprise him with that long coveted mattress and for once, we might wake up without pain! Oh the loveliness of comfy sleep! I can’t even begin to imagine!
October 2, 2014 at 8:47 am
I just bought a new house and the backyard is a desolate wasteland. I would love to make it an oasis by fixing the broken irrigation system and planting beautiful plants!
Ilana says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:49 am
That would go towards giving this new mama a break- maybe a sitter hours a week, or a night out of town with my little family!
October 2, 2014 at 8:49 am
October 2, 2014 at 8:50 am
I would buy the Roxy Rocker (rocking chair) from OneFortyThree that I’ve had my eye on for the past year but can’t justify buying. I have the PERFECT place for it in my apartment. The rest would go towards tickets for my new husband and I to go on a trip together!
Amy says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:50 am
I’d love to fly into L.A. and road trip it around California for a week, taking pics, eating at restaurants that are too cool to mention, and people-watching along the way…
October 2, 2014 at 8:51 am
I would invest $1,000 more in my design company that is launching in December. It has always been my dream to start my own company and I am making it happen. $1,000 would be an essential part to help me to further fulfill my design dreams.
Jaqueline Poole says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:51 am
I’ve a passion for helping the homeless and with $1,000 I could buy a table and chairs and a ton of food, and feed many people in MacArthur Park. I just moved to LA and homelessness is a real problem. That would not only brighten my day, but so many others, as well. Thanks!
Carly says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:52 am
I’d hire a contractor to come sand the hardwood floors in my bedroom and then stain or paint them white! The floors have been painted 4 or 5 times and were maroon when I bought the house. I quickly painted them black but regret not hiring a professional to do it correctly. I think white floors would brighten up the room but I just can’t justify spending that money right now!
October 2, 2014 at 8:54 am
I would feel like I’m living the good life… if I could make my house a house. I feel like my whole life is defined by the fact that I am a single mother (of a 5 yr old, 3 year old, 7 month old) and it shows in everything. My identity is in being a mother, and how well I provide for my children. I dream of having actual dishes (NOT paper plates and plastic cups) and a table to share meals at, coffee tables to stack the books my daughters is learning to read on, a television to cuddle up and watch Frozen on.
Katie says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:54 am
It’s been a tough couple of months for me, and I would love to put that $1000 to a relaxing weekend with me and my ladyfriends. Maybe book us a couple nights on the Oregon Coast complete with massages, book club & wine night, and fried oysters…. aaah…
Elizabeth says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:56 am
This is such a nice giveaway! I would love win a $1000 dollar gift card to Bloomingdales so I can get started on my holiday shopping for my family!
October 2, 2014 at 8:56 am
If I had a $1000, I would rent out a nice hotel suite for my friends and have a party full of food and fun! I love spending time with friends and this will be a great treat. With anything left over, I’d buy some nice shoes.. because I also love shoes
October 2, 2014 at 8:56 am
With $1000 I would be able to buy a MacBook Air, which would come in handy with school and work. Especially since I just sold my iPad to catch up on bills.
October 2, 2014 at 8:56 am
A one-night in Santa Ynez for my husband and I. We haven’t had a real night away from our little one and I think we’re in need. Santa Ynez is driving distance and it woudl be so great to check into a nice place up there, go wine tasting, eat a wonderful dinner at the Los Olivos Inn, and maybe come back with some good wine.
October 2, 2014 at 8:58 am
I’d fly to NYC and meet my parents and we’d do the trip we’ve always talked about doing: walking around Brooklyn Flea, eating until we busted out of our seams and laughing till our cheeks hurt. There’d be no crying at the airport like most trips where we’re reunited because it’d be a bonus trip.
October 2, 2014 at 8:58 am
i think i’d use this prize money to take our first little family vacay with my husband and 6 month old son. just sneaking away to santa barbara for the weekend sounds like just the ticket. thank you!
Amanda says:
October 2, 2014 at 8:59 am
My husband and I have been married for two years and we have lived with family since the beginning- some by choice and some not by choice. Getting alone time means leaving the house which often means spending extra money. My husband and I are artists desiring to grow our own businesses, but right now we are both working two jobs. It gets really hard working so much and living with family still. If I could dream up a thousand dollars I’d use it to drive us to LA, stay at the ACE hotel, and spend the weekend with my husband (alone!) We would go to art museums, get a massage, and maybe see one of our favorite bands. Oh and we would eat very good food and drink those fancy cocktails that we could never afford otherwise. Time to reconnect and play pretend will really help to inspire us to keep pursuing our dreams because they are worth all the sacrifices.
October 2, 2014 at 9:02 am
I would buy a ticket to see family back in Montreal that I haven’t seen for years! Eat some proper poutine and indulge in a beaver tail! <3
October 2, 2014 at 9:02 am
With $1000 I would start buying some nursery necessities for my first child due in March. What a dream it would be to win!
October 2, 2014 at 9:06 am
I would buy a luxe office chair to make every 12 hour work day more beautiful and comfy!
Jade Sheldon-Burnsed says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:07 am
You know, I am constantly dreaming up things in my life but when it comes to this prize, I would love to share it with my husband. I would use the money to have a staycation. We would stay at The Nines in Downtown Portland where we could rest up and relax, do some shopping, and stuff our faces!
October 2, 2014 at 9:07 am
I’ve yet to explore America’s deserts and would take a trip out west to Arizona to roadtrip and visit the Grand Canyon!
October 2, 2014 at 9:08 am
I would use it to take my husband out on weekly dates after our baby arrives in the next few weeks. Working together to keep the romance alive is really as good as it gets!
Eliza says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:08 am
A week long adventure in New Orleans with my boyfriend is something I have been dreaming about for a while. I am fascinated by the history and culture of the deep south and the grittiness of it all. I would use the money to buy two plane tickets and a room at a haunting but luxurious bed and breakfast.
October 2, 2014 at 9:08 am
It’s actually a nice and useful piece of information. I’m satisfied that you shared
this helpful info with us. Please stay us informed like this.
Thank you for sharing.
October 2, 2014 at 9:09 am
If there was a way to, I would give the $1000 to my mama and let her do whatever she wanted with it. I just recently graduated from college and am living at home til I find a job. My mom has been supporting me all of my life, paid for all of my schooling and it would be a small gift I could give her in return for all the awesome things she has done for me. She seriously is a hustlahh and the best mom ever
October 2, 2014 at 9:10 am
A down payment on a new car. We just got in an accident:( so we are kinda desperate with four kids:)
Kelley says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:10 am
Hmm…$1000…the responsible thing to do would be to upgrade the electrical in our house so we can finish our basement! The thing I would want to do is go visit pretty much any ocean!
October 2, 2014 at 9:10 am
I would without a doubt buy a plane ticket to Europe! i’ve never left the US, and have been dying to do some adventuring. This $1000 would make all the difference in achieving this dream!
Kimberly says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:11 am
I would spend it on a beach vacation to Tulum with my sister during the cold winter. Two tickets please!
October 2, 2014 at 9:11 am
I’d take a weekender with my husband to Asheville, NC! Close enough that we don’t have to fly, but far enough away that we can wander the forest, drink craft beer, and eat some yum Vegan food!
October 2, 2014 at 9:11 am
I am saving up, and I need $1000 more to pay for my last semester in college!
October 2, 2014 at 9:12 am
Something I daydream about all the time! I love love love to finish up lingering home projects…like making our exterior a bit more appealing…painting all the trim in our house white and finishing up the playroom basement for my girls!!
Teresa says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:12 am
First, I am a die-hard Diet Coke drinker and have tons of photographic evidence to prove it. Love me the DC. Second, my husband and I were planning on having me piggy back a work trip of his in Spain for our one-year anniversary, but decided we shouldn’t really because of finances… especially because our dog just had an expensive surgery. This would cover my plane ticket, though, and allow us to do that!
Diana says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:12 am
Expecting my first child in February, so I’d put it toward decorating the nursery! (Which er, I need to get started on….)
Alexandria says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:13 am
I compare every purchase I make, every paycheck, to plane ticket values. I search plane ticket prices to various destinations daily, just to dream. Right now, I’d buy a ticket to India, the place I’ve most wanted to visit since I was a little girl. If I can get myself there, I have an internship waiting for me where I would be working on farming with rural villagers. Tickets from the West Coast right now are right around $1,000!
October 2, 2014 at 9:13 am
I would buy myself an all new fall wardrobe! I need new clothes very badly! I’m tired of feeling drab in my first professional job out of college!
Kayla says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:13 am
I would visit a long time friend down in Florida. She moved away a couple years ago and haven’t been able to visit her since she moved down there!
Pati Reis says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:13 am
We just got married last Friday. Really small wedding, only 4 people (us + 2 grandmas We do not have time to go anywhere until the holidays. So I would love to give us our ONE PERFECT WEEK. We love our jobs, so that’s not a problem. But we would go to have breakfast in a new place everyday (that is our favorite meal), have couple massages (we always wanted to do it), have a cleaning company to deep clean our apartment (he is in charge of the 2 bathrooms and I am in charge of everything else , and give each other an opportunity to buy a really special surprise for one another. And finish it up with a staying in the Sienna Hotel (here in Chapel Hill, NC), not because they are a great hotel, but because they have the BEST BRUNCH EVER, so we could have that as room service
October 2, 2014 at 9:13 am
I would use it to buy a beautiful wedding dress from BHLDN
October 2, 2014 at 9:13 am
-Student Loan assistance (yeeep)
-A class (or two!) for next semester would be wonderful as well
-Ok…maybe even a plane ticket to somewhere fabulous
October 2, 2014 at 9:14 am
This is easy. I would donate $250 to my Grandfather who is recovering from his second battle with cancer. Then I’d take the rest and fly my Mom (who has never left the country) to Ireland where we would drink guiness, trek over to Paris via train and splurge on some Chanel lipstick and N0.5.
PS: Diet coke is my number one addiction. That and this blog, obviously.
October 2, 2014 at 9:14 am
A ticket to PARIS would be as good as the taste of diet coke! I’ve been dying to plan a trip there this next summer!
October 2, 2014 at 9:14 am
i would use it to buy a sofa for my living room! i have been in this house for 5 months, it’s my first place, and after a break-up it really is MY first place and it needs so much love. i am still in need of a dining room set of chairs to surround a free (!!!) 8 foot oak table i just got, a coffee table, sofa, and a couple candles and fresh flowers wouldn’t hurt either
anything leftover from that would be spent on groceries for a dinner party (since people will finally have a place to sit) with friends and family
October 2, 2014 at 9:14 am
I would love to spend that on the that beautiful sewing machine my mother was eyeing. Christmas is just around the corner and buying needs for my family would be the most wonderful thing! although its the thought that counts, it would be beautiful to have a little help!!!
M.E. says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:15 am
With $1000, I would get to plane tickets to Costa Rica to treat my husband for finishing his PhD in May 2015. It has been a long haul with very few vacations and it would be so nice to celebrate such a huge milestone! You have definitely gotten me thinking about travel now
October 2, 2014 at 9:15 am
I would take my seven month old son (from Texas to Arizona) to visit his Great-Grandfather– who just turned ninety! He may never have the chance to meet his only remaining maternal great-grandparent.
October 2, 2014 at 9:15 am
With $1000, I’d hire a professional team to come in and help us clean and de-clutter the house, and then re-imagine the spaces (paint, decorate) to make them more beautiful to live in. My mom and I have been through a lot since Dad died, and it would be so wonderful to feel free to relax in our house, without worrying about this endless to-do list that feels overwhelming before you even get started. It might not be the most glamorous dream, but it would make a huge difference in everyday life!
Joanna bak says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:15 am
I’d take a trip to LA/the bay area. I’ve still never been to the bay area!!!
October 2, 2014 at 9:15 am
A new patio/deck where my daughter can play safely outside. We never ever use our backyard and plan on redoing it next year, so $1000 would help a lot!
Jamie N. says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:15 am
I’ve been dreaming about paying off some credit card debt!! What a weight off my shoulders that would be. Living debt free is definitely living the GOOD LIFE!!
October 2, 2014 at 9:15 am
I would love to plan a trip to visit a handful of friends across the US. One in NYC, one in Phoenix, and one in Denver. Although they’ve lived in these places going on a couple of years now, I still have yet to find time/money to visit them.
October 2, 2014 at 9:16 am
I would join my local Yoga studio and work towards getting strong and balanced. But I would take my children too, because more than anything I want them to learn to center and be calm and happy and effervescent like a soda. Smooth and clean and filled with energy.
We would rise and shine and sparkle.
October 2, 2014 at 9:16 am
I’m training for my first Marathon and I could use some new running shoes. It would be awesome to outfit myself with new running gear and all the training essentials like GU’s. Love this giveaway!!
October 2, 2014 at 9:16 am
I have always wanted to visit Paris. A trip for two with my love would be exactly what I would do and shop with whatever is left over. Here’s to wishing for luck!!
jessica says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:16 am
Love the idea of just taking off and traveling. My husband and I have always wanted to head to New Mexico and actually stay a while. So with him and our new puppy I’d head that way and just take a week or two off exploring the beautiful landscape and culture.
Ann says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:17 am
I just moved, so I could definitely use the money to buy a cool vintage dresser I have been eyeing at a local store!
Irene says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:17 am
If I won $1000, I would use it to buy a 13-inch MacBook Air. I’m a college student and I’ve never had a well working laptop. I’ve only had two laptops in my lifetime, and I’ve always used Dell, but I’ve always had problems with them: viruses, laptop being too heavy, software updates, etc. I’ve wanted to get a MacBook for the longest time, but could never afford it. Having a MacBook Air would help me so much with my studies and not having to carry around a bulky and heavy laptop.
Thank you so much for this giveaway! This is awesome!
October 2, 2014 at 9:17 am
With $1000, I would buy a couple of Max Wanger prints and pay to have them framed. Every since Bri introduced me to his art, I’m obsessed—I know exactly which prints (and sizes) I’d like to purchase. Just need the $$ to do it right!
October 2, 2014 at 9:17 am
I would probably pay off this macbook I”m getting charged super high interest for!
October 2, 2014 at 9:17 am
A trip to California to visit my parents with my husband would be my dream right now! We live in the east coast now, have been married for 2 years, but haven’t been able to spend time with my parents much (they only met once!) and would love for them to get to know my husband better in person! It would be also be a great opportunity for my husband to “get a better taste” of what my hometown in CA is like, because I would love to live there again someday <3
October 2, 2014 at 9:17 am
I’d put it toward new flooring for my home, which I also work from. The carpeting is old and it’s depressing to work from here all day, let alone have clients over. It’s hard to justify the large expense now, starting a business, but this $1000 would certainly clinch the deal!
Caitlin says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:18 am
Two tickets to New York City for my husband and me. We’d see the sites and take in the culture. We’d use a bit of the money to buy some art (we get at least one piece every place we go together) and you know, maybe a few articles of clothing for me
October 2, 2014 at 9:18 am
My sister is getting married in Berlin next fall and I am trying desperately to save up money so I can travel from Minneapolis to be there for her, but with student loan payments and car repairs it is getting harder and harder to imagine dropping over $1000 on a dreamy vacation/sister time.
If I won $1000 I could get myself to her wedding on time, and use the money I have saved so far to pay bills and eat food….
Jillian says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:18 am
I’d use $1,000 to take my mom on a surprise trip to New Orleans! My family has never had room in the budget for frivolous expenses like vacation, and I’d love to make some memories that are purely fun. New Orleans is her favorite!
October 2, 2014 at 9:18 am
I would love to use the $1000 for a birthday party for my son. Reading the comments, though, I wish everyone luck with their awesome wishes!
Ashley W says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:19 am
I would give a little bit of it to me and two of my other college roommates so we could afford to fly to Miami to see our other roommate have her baby. We all live so far apart and it is so hard to get together. It would be great to see them all and be together once more. It’s been years since we’ve made it happen.
October 2, 2014 at 9:19 am
We recently had a tiny human and our house renovation project had been on hold due to our inability to get it appraised, therefore be granted a loan so i would definitely put $1,000 towards helping make that #redbrickvic (a gutted out 1888 Queen Anne brick Victorian) a home for our little family.
Kelly says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:19 am
This is so wonderful! My fiance and I are planning our wedding for next October, and we’re paying for everything ourselves, so we’re being pretty conservative with our spending. I would use this to get the ring I’ve been dreaming of, but can’t afford right now.
October 2, 2014 at 9:19 am
I would pay my mom back for the car she gave me when I needed one. Althought the remaining balance is low, I said I would pay it every month and fell on a really hard time. She still pays the remaining balance on it every month and pays for her own car on top of taking care of my grandmother who has advanced Multiple Sclerosis and requires 24 hour care from medical staff. No matter the debt my mom accrues, she refuses to put her mother in a nursing home and asks my brother and I always take care of her.
October 2, 2014 at 9:20 am
My husband and I have been having the hardest time finding affordable housing in the San Francisco Bay Area (where we’ve both lived our entire lives), and it’s really putting a damper on the whole newlyweds thing. I would love an extra thousand dollars to use toward getting our first apartment or home together as husband and wife in our favorite city, Oakland CA. The money would be that extra help we desperately need to get us back on track financially after my knee injury. Thank you for the opportunity.
Shauna says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:20 am
I would put it towards my student debt, which I am working to pay off early. For the last 4 years I have been monitoring my spending drastically to chip away at it week by week at it. It’s hard to say no to new clothes, nights out, fun things. But so worth it. $1000 would give me an added boost of inspiration to keep seeing those numbers go down.
October 2, 2014 at 9:20 am
I would without a doubt use it to travel. A summer roadtrip is next on my list!
Lisa says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:20 am
Oooooh my goodness I would use $1000 to take a long weekend in the Carribean with my husband! We just got married, have been job searching and finishing up MBA school, and it would be such a relaxing treat to hang by the pool, eat seafood, and relax. Preferably with no internet
October 2, 2014 at 9:20 am
I’d use $1000 to take my boyfriend on a spa weekend getaway from Los Angeles. He’s been taking care of me non-stop for a few weeks post surgery, getting no sleep and just generally being a badass, amazing man. I’d love to pamper him with some spa treatments and boozy nights in Palm Springs or Ojai as a thank you for how ridiculously awesome he’s been.
October 2, 2014 at 9:21 am
I just got engaged a week ago! I would love to spend the $1000 on a dreamy wedding dress!!
October 2, 2014 at 9:21 am
I would grab a pack of diet coke, pay my rent check for the month, take the rest of the money and hop in my car with my best friends and start driving up to the North Cascades to explore, hike and adventure with my best pals. We’d sip on Diet Cokes at the top of a mountain or around the campfire. We’d make memories that will last us through the rainy winter of Seattle until spring roles around.
Tahiti says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:21 am
I just got my first apartment. It’s a slow process with buying furniture to decorate it to my taste. With $1000 I would buy a couch that I have been dreaming about for a while.
October 2, 2014 at 9:21 am
I’d love to visit my Mom in Seattle, WA. I love the mountains and the weather in Colorado, but never imagined my Mom wouldn’t see my kids grow. I have two kids, 16 and 12, and a baby due in January. We haven’t been back for over 5 years since I went back to finish my degree. I’d love to fly into Oregon, show my kids the coast I visited in my childhood and drive up to Seattle to spend time with my Mom and family next summer!
October 2, 2014 at 9:21 am
Alli says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:21 am
I would grab that cash and include it in a down payment for a house!!
October 2, 2014 at 9:21 am
I would love to buy a plane ticket to Australia! My husband was born there and we absolutely need to travel there before we start a family. This is a total bucket list item for us! We’ve been saving up for a while, but life (i.e. car repairs..rent…boring stuff) keeps slowing us down. This $1,000 would make it possible for me to see Daved’s homeland for the first time. I’d overcome my fear of spiders to travel to an awesome place to have an adventure with my best friend!
Tara says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:22 am
An insane shopping spree. One day, me, a friend who are will tell me what looks decent, and $1000. This college student hasn’t bought new clothes in years.
October 2, 2014 at 9:22 am
$1000 to add to the savings account which would hopefully help save enough to go to India with my love and eat lots of curry and visit amazing places!
October 2, 2014 at 9:22 am
I would offer to my true love a surprised weekend in London ! Shopping, kissing on a bridge, sightseeing hand in hand, drinking a tasted cup of tea looking into his beautiful eyes…Amazing !
October 2, 2014 at 9:22 am
What a wonderful giveaway. I have to say, what I’d do with the money isn’t very glamorous, but it would definitely be life-changing. My husband and I inherited a house from his grandparents, and to be honest, it’s in the worst condition you could imagine. The bones of the house are good + there is so much history there for my husband, so we just can’t give it up. And really, it isn’t a lost cause! We have been running into some financial trouble (and a lot of annoying legal trouble at first) with fixing up the house. We just found out we are going to need a new well drilled on the property + it’s going to cost… let’s just say a LOT. If I won this giveaway, the money would most definitely go toward the cost of our new well. It isn’t a trip to Europe (which we would LOVE), but it is something we truly need. Crossing my fingers. Thanks for the chance!
Leah says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:22 am
I’d put it toward a new Mac computer! I’m a new mom starting up a stationery small business and my old Mac computer just isn’t cutting it anymore. A new computer could help me create more designs faster to get things up and more quickly!
October 2, 2014 at 9:23 am
I would use the money to travel to the Lake District in England with my husband so we can see where his family came from, and feel like we’re in a Jane Austen book!
October 2, 2014 at 9:24 am
A mid-century modern console cabinet for the family room we’re remodeling! I have a great sectional sofa already and just need to pair it with a beautiful wood casegood piece. This piece would accommodate a television (which I don’t own yet–haven’t had a TV in 8 years), a great smelling candle, a framed picture of my son, and a decorative bowl carved by my husband. Relaxing on the couch looking towards this piece with these objects would definitely be a good-life-moment!
October 2, 2014 at 9:24 am
If I won $1000 I would put the money towards photography classes to help start a business.
October 2, 2014 at 9:24 am
I could take a really nice trip for that or maybe it’d be worth the weight off my shoulders to just put it in the bank. That’s not fun. I’ll go with the trip and instagram lots of pictures and drink soda and smile a lot. They can use me for a commercial. I’ve been wanting to go to Montreal for ten years. Would be beautiful. Hope I win!
October 2, 2014 at 9:24 am
I would use the $1000 towards studying abroad in Paris! It’s been my dream to go there my whole life. Now as a fine arts studio major, I’d love to take the opportunity to go. Having some extra cash would definitely come in handy for the trip. Who knows when I’ll have another chance!
Kira K says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:25 am
Hmm, I think a chunk of it would definitely go to a spa day, after which I’d pick up my new bag, and then the remaining half (or more) would go to my parents, who deserve a spa day and treat of their own! <3
Gwynne says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:25 am
Recently broke up with my boyfriend and have a new apartment and no furniture. I could definitely use that $1,000 for an awesome mid-century couch that I’ve been eyeing.
October 2, 2014 at 9:25 am
With my diet coke in hand I would use the $1,000 to take my husband to a Chicago Bears game. He has been dying to go to one but they always cost to much. It would be a great gift for a very giving man and a first time dad.
October 2, 2014 at 9:25 am
I just paid around $850 at my local vet. It was a big chunk of change, but anything to make sure my doggie Tallulah is healthy and happy. I would replenish my account and go see Belle and Sebastian play at Radio City Music Hall!
Autumn says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:25 am
I would put it toward an assistant. My business is booming so much that I just can’t crank the work out fast enough. It would make managing money and workload much easier. I’d be able to have a life again. <3
October 2, 2014 at 9:26 am
I would buy myself an amazing new digital camera to replace my old one! I’m starting to build a photography + art/design business and this prize would be an amazing step towards leaving my 8-5 desk job!
October 2, 2014 at 9:26 am
A plane ticket to Florence, Italy for my birthday in May. What better place to “get a taste” than in Italy. I would invite my boyfriend to meet me there; we’ve daydreamed and game-planned this for over a year now. It’s time to make it a reality, because why not. Being in love with him makes me feel like anything is possible, and everything is an adventure. Italy has always romanced me with its landscapes, food, culture and history. Another reason to travel in May is to catch a stage or two of the Giro d’Italia, a professional bicycling race, and experience the local pride, flavor and excitement as the maglia rosa flies by. My boyfriend is a cyclist; his passion has inspired my fascination with the sport and has encouraged me to ride. This would be such a dreamy way to celebrate another trip around the sun in a romantic place with my love watching a race, renting bicycles, going on motorcycle rides, sharing delicious meals and grabbing gelato every day. A trip of a lifetime. Thanks so much for the chance to win, Bri. xo
Aspen Cross says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:26 am
My dream award would be a late honeymoon to Greece for my husband and I. We had a very intimate tight-budget wedding and although it was very special to us, we would like the chance to get away for a few days and enjoy life without kids and work, and just enjoy some good relaxation and adventure. It would be nice to have a bit of extra money to contribute toward that trip together.
October 2, 2014 at 9:26 am
I would buy a nice cannon camera and lens to shoot my YouTube videos…right now I use my iPhone, which works, but a camera would insanely step up my quality and help me follow my dream of being a you tuber.
October 2, 2014 at 9:26 am
I would use the money to take a small vacation to Kansas City with my husband. He’s a football coach so we don’t get to see much of each other right now, which is tough. We just got married in June and never had a newlywed phase because football started in July. Kansas City is where we fell in love and we can’t wait to take a trip back there. It would be amazing to get to spend some time away. I would say that’s something that would taste as good as diet coke. Some quality Vaca time with my new husband!
Evan Olson says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:27 am
Basically, someplace other than Iowa.
October 2, 2014 at 9:27 am
I am working on a book right now, and so I would use a part of the money to buy more research materials (romance comics!) and I would use the other part to buy some new glasses and contacts which I am very much in need of!
Margaret says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:27 am
Nothing beats cold hard cash… except what I’d put that cash toward. I would definitely spend it on a dog from a rescue shelter. I fell in love with my boyfriend’s dog but we both work full time and my heart breaks every time I have to leave her alone. I’ve been wanting to take home a shelter dog for the longest time but don’t have the money to take care of all the initial investment in medical bills and pet supplies that it requires. Thank you Bri and to Diet Coke for giving someone the chance to make one of their dreams come true!
Alysia Alex says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:28 am
The love of my life just moved to Copenhagen for work and it’s been a hard transition for the both of us. I would take that $1000, book a spontaneous ticket to Denmark and show up on his doorstep like an old time-y romantic movie.
Kelsey Cox says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:28 am
I would use it to go to a blogshop weekend class!!!
OR I would use it to buy a new puppy!
Those are pretty much the same right?
October 2, 2014 at 9:28 am
I have a couple vacation days left for the year, and almost every morning on the bus to work I think, “what if I just took the BART to the airport instead?” I’d jet off to Tulum for a couple days alone to rest and recharge. I’d spend that $1000 on spontaneity, reading a good book while on a lounge chair in a bikini, and on finding my center again.
October 2, 2014 at 9:28 am
I’d spend it on two 2-week JR rail passes to travel around Japan with my wife (we just got married less than 3 weeks ago!).
October 2, 2014 at 9:28 am
My dream will be to have tickets for me and my hubby to go to Mexico for Christmas. I was born in Mexico, and haven’t been there for 2 years. I miss my country,my family( haven’t seen my momma in 2 years too) and just being able to eat a good taco lol. This will mean a lot to me! Hope I win!
October 2, 2014 at 9:29 am
I would use the $1,000 to finish my basement letterpress studio! My boyfriend gave me an antique letterpress for Christmas and it’s been sitting lonely ever since. I would use the money to get her up and running again and buy the additional tools I would need to get my print shop started!
Kelli says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:29 am
I would use it to pay back some of the debt my ex left me saddled with!
fariha says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:29 am
I would buy a pair of plane tickets and have my parents visit me for a week
Sarah says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:29 am
A weekend away for my husband & me! $1000 would get these two wanderlust-crazy lovers two plane tickets, a hotel room, a few epic meals and some wonderful memories in Austin, TX!
October 2, 2014 at 9:30 am
I would use it to buy my first LV bag!!! I would love to have an original one!!! Not the chinese one!
October 2, 2014 at 9:30 am
With $1k, I would refurnish my bedroom!! Not the most exciting use of money, but it would be so nice to come home to a relaxing bedroom, instead of mismatched pieces.
October 2, 2014 at 9:30 am
I would use the money to take a long over due honeymoonish trip (is it still a honeymoon a year and a half later?). We’ve been so busy growing our personal businesses that we have not had the time nor the funds to take a breather – $1000 would be perfect kickstart
October 2, 2014 at 9:30 am
I would use it to take a spring break bike-ride vaca through napa vally!
October 2, 2014 at 9:31 am
I studied English and I’m an English teacher now, here in Serbia, but unfortunately because of the financial situation I didn’t get a chance to travel to an English speaking country, and I would love that, that’s one of my dreams
October 2, 2014 at 9:31 am
I would put the $1,000 towards a surprise Christmas trip to Denver to spend the holiday with my sister and niece. Holidays away from family are never easy so anyway I could be there, I would do in a heartbeat.
Jess says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:31 am
Such a great idea for a giveaway and with a lovely sentiment behind it! I am currently getting up the courage to take the leap from my cushy 9-5, salaried studio photography job into freelance photography. Most photographers would kill for what I have, a reliable schedule and a consistent paycheck, but it’s not where my heart is. So I’m probably crazy but I am transitioning into nature and landscape photography. I would put this money behind my dream and replace my terribly out of date wide angle lens. Either way wish me luck! x
October 2, 2014 at 9:31 am
My rent paid and a small madewell backpack
October 2, 2014 at 9:31 am
Bailey says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:31 am
If I could win $1000 dollars towards anything I wanted it would be for a plane ticket to New Zealand. This is for many reasons, one is because it would be a dream come true to be able to see all the filming locations of the Lord of the Rings movies. But, thats just a small part of why this trip would mean so much to me. I have been saving my money fora few years now to go and travel to New Zealand. Theres just something about this county that really calls out to me. The beauty of it and how theres and endless amount of things to do and see. My major in college is video editing and New Zealand has a very good film/video program so not only will the plane ticket help me travel to my dream destination, but it would also help me move forward in my degree and earn better experience that could help me get a better job. I know plane tickets run a little high for New Zealand so I would take a visa or gift card with the $1000 on it. It would be extremely helpful and I would be forever grateful.
October 2, 2014 at 9:31 am
I would spend the $1000 on my backyard patio redesign to make it my dream getaway! I would use it on new seating from from Wicker Lane (Wicker Lane Conversation Sectional 3 Piece Seating Group with Cushions – $999.99). Patio furniture is EXPENSIVE, but this would really make the space amazing.
October 2, 2014 at 9:32 am
I would save the money to pay for an anniversary trip for my husband and I! It’ll be my year to plan, and the destination is a surprise to him!
Shanna says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:32 am
And then I’d probably buy a swing arm lamp or a new coat.
Alison says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:32 am
A bike! A super-light bike that I could carry up the stairs, and a car rack, wall mount, etc.
Sarah says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:32 am
I’m about to start traveling on foot around California for a few months. Right now, we have no housing arrangements so I would use the $1000 to pay for hostels and places to stay each night as I travel.
October 2, 2014 at 9:32 am
I recently just relocated to a new city to pursue my dream job, with nothing but one suitcase of clothing. Since August ( when I started the job), I’ve been living in my new apartment with only an air bed! No other furniture. It’s pretty bare bones in here. With this $1,000.00 I would get myself some furniture to fill my empty apartment, and use the leftovers for a date night with my handsome man whom I’m doing long distance with. (we’ve only seen each other twice since I moved to Philadelphia). Living with only the bare essentials has been a humbling experience, and has truly taught me to appreciate every little thing I have. That being said, a little extra cash to afford that couch, table & rug I’ve been eyeing would be just amazing!
October 2, 2014 at 9:33 am
I would love to win this contest. A month ago my best friend and I finally took the plunge and started a lifestyle blog which has been a dream of ours for years. We are hoping to open an etsy store in the next year and this money would help tremendously with upfront costs. I am planning my wedding so all of my incremental funds go to that and this would really help us get our dream and business off the ground. I love this contest idea- making dreams come true! Thank you so much for the consideration!
October 2, 2014 at 9:33 am
My dream would be to buy furniture for my new brooklyn apartment. I’ve been here only 3 days. I am making a pinterest board of my dream items and I’d love to snag a few of them. Especially the 600 dollar couch!
Brian says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:33 am
My boyfriend and I are moving in together for the first time! Would love some help with making our studio as functional and relaxing as possible while somehow managing to fit ourselves and our stuff there!
Morgan says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:33 am
What a fun and generous giveaway! I’d love to invest the $ into my business to get it off the ground and on it’s feet. It’s been a dream of mine for quite some time, and I’m on the cusp of launching, but it’d be awesome to have a little extra cash for promotion, organization, etc. Fingers crossed!!
Kimyee says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:33 am
I would absolutely upgrade and give my circa 1980’s kitchen a facelift! (It’s complete with orange countertops and all!) I’d upgrade to a new dishwasher and put up some white subway tile. It still has the yucky wallpaper residue on the walls from when we removed the ancient wallpaper.
Thanks for the opportunity!
October 2, 2014 at 9:33 am
This is such a thoughtful giveaway! Well, this year has been full of surprises. Biggest one was when my boyfriend of 5 years asked me to marry him. My parents can’t afford a wedding, so I suggested eloping. He immediately shut down the idea because he thinks that I will regret not sharing that day with our loved ones. Now we are having a small wedding and we are doing everything ourselves (yes, everything; *insert YIKES here*). Needless to say, we won’t be having a honeymoon. I would use the price money to take my fiancé on a surprise honeymoon. He has been so thoughtful and amazing throughout this entire process, and I think it would make for a great adventure for us to have together after the wedding madness. Maybe a trip to Alaska or somewhere where we can go hiking together. He loves being in the mountains. He bought me my dream ice blue sapphire ring, so why not make one of his dreams come true!
October 2, 2014 at 9:34 am
my life would look like this, being able to go on a week long vacation at surfcamp, and being able to pretend/work towards making that part of my regular life instead of being landlocked in the midwest, dreaming about catching waves all day, at a semi-corporate job :)that is what it would look like if it tasted as good as diet coke!
Felicity says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:34 am
I would use the money to visit my boyfriend (he’s currently in Dubai and I’m in Seattle)
October 2, 2014 at 9:34 am
oh what i wouldn’t do? I guess a trip would totally worth all the money! Nothing better than making memories
Kelly says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:35 am
I would spend it on a new lens for my DSLR in hopes of upping my photography game!
October 2, 2014 at 9:35 am
I would put the $1,000 toward one of my student loans. College is so expensive and as a result I’ve been saddled with a lot of debt. My husband is now in medical school (yay more debt) and has a year left before he starts rotations. Even if he is an incredibly successful doctor it is still going to take us hears to pay it all off – and we want to start a family in about two years!! So needless to say, $1,000 isn’t huge in the grand scheme of our student loans, but it would put us ahead a couple months to say the least (:
Laura says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:35 am
I would use the $1000 on my honeymoon next year! I want to travel across Europe with my husband, exploring England, Scotland and Ireland. However, a weekend getaway in Paris sounds so romantic! Sipping expensive french wine along the Seine, eating baguette and croissants like they’re going out of style and taking in the Eiffel Tower sounds like a dream!
October 2, 2014 at 9:36 am
A weekend getaway to Palm Springs! I wait tables in Los Angeles and barely get by. Palm Springs is a quick get-away that I’ve always viewed as a luxury because I can’t afford to take the time off work. xo
Bobbye Jo Green says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:36 am
In one month and two days, my paramour and I are off to Europe! It will be his first trip over to the old world and he is not going to even know what hit him! We’ve been saving for an entire year, I work two jobs each day, and our social life has dwindled to, “We’d love to see you! Come over, and bring wine.”
Our trip is on a budget, but because we’ll be together it will also be pure magic. I can’t picture the look on his face if we bumped our flights up to first class! $1000 would do the trick and start our adventure off with a bang. Not to meantion, in first class our whiskey and Diet Coke’s would be on the house.
October 2, 2014 at 9:36 am
I would use the money to help with my move to my new place and possibly rent
October 2, 2014 at 9:37 am
I just moved to Nashville from LA!! I’m in school and although I love it here, I miss my best friends! They’re spread out all over the country (also for school), but with $1000 I would fly some them out here for a spontaneous long weekend trip/ adventure!
Joanna says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:37 am
Definitely a plane ticket to see my family in the Midwest. I live in Alaska now, so the trip is expensive and does not happen nearly often enough.
October 2, 2014 at 9:38 am
With $1000 I would hands down hire a stylist to makeover my wardrobe and my everyday look. I’ve been wanting to doing this for the last couple of years and need a clue on how to put together a style.
October 2, 2014 at 9:38 am
I’d put that $ toward more classes for my BA in middle eastern studies!
Rebecca says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:38 am
We are in need of a new set of couches! We’ve had ours for the past 20 years and they are in dire need of replacement. The color has faded and it seems to be tearing. It’d outdated and we would love something a little more modern. Can’t wait to liven up our living room!!
October 2, 2014 at 9:38 am
I would pay for the trip to Mexico I’m taking in December that is sitting on my credit card, staring me in the face, wondering if I should even go. Yep, I booked the vacation when I was making more $$$.
Jodie Parrish says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:38 am
I would use the $1000 to buy trees. We just built a house and are slowly completing projects. The trees will no just provided us shade and a beautiful yard, but will benefit future generations as well.
October 2, 2014 at 9:38 am
I have a desire to start my own buisness.I would really like to open up a second hand clothing store in Bulgaria,and the initial investment of 1000$ would cover most of the licenses and since month’s rent are not that expensive, i consider that 1000$ would be able to do that I know it may sound a bit crazy,but thats the truth about what I would spend the money on. Thank you
Ana says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:39 am
I would use this to buy a plane ticket to go to Dubai and visit my friend who had a baby last year! Girls trip to the desert!!
October 2, 2014 at 9:39 am
my wish is always to travel! i would use this on two plane tickets to the south of france to explore and show my husband paris and nice. thank you!
Jeremy says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:39 am
I would take a trip to New Orleans! Airfare and lodging for my girlfriend and me, hopefully with some left over for some great food and music.
October 2, 2014 at 9:39 am
Me and my two best girlfriends have been in long-distance friendship for about 4 years now. We talk every day, continue a group text throughout the day, send photos back and fourth, and schedule weekly conference calls to catch up. It’s continually a struggle to make trips to reunite and cultivate our friendship in person, especially with us all being in college in different states, staying on a budget, saving money with our approaching graduation date. If I won the $1,000 grand prize, I would plan a fun trip for all three of us to a place we’ve always wanted to go together: the PNW! It’s been a dream for all of us but has never happened. We’d spend the weekend/week maybe at an airbnb to best experience the city, adventure around, take fun photos, and knowing us, just sit around and talk about life, encouraging one another, loving each other, and enjoying each other’s presence! Relationships are one of the most important things in life, and I’d use this prize to spend much-needed time with the ones I love. I think it’d be pretty comparable to the joy I feel drinking a Diet Coke
Allison says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:39 am
I’d love to pay off my medical bills and then open up a bottle of crisp Diet Coke to take a load off!
October 2, 2014 at 9:40 am
I would gratefully use a thousand dollars on paying for my mother to have a weekend off of work to go do something peaceful and pleasant that she’d enjoy, ideally having a relaxing tea somewhere near the Dallas/Fort Worth area. She’s a single mother and has been working every week day and weekend to make ends meet. I’m pitching in with bills too. I would also like to spend some of the money on new Autumn attire for myself at Forever 21.
Taylor says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:40 am
Lately life has felt dull and depressing. More than anythingI think I would like to go to a yoga or meditation retreat in order to find myself again. I have been eyeing Esalen in Big Sur for years now but with planning my own wedding I have not had enough money to go. Spending $1000 to reawaken my creativity and mellow out my constantly fast moving mind would be wonderful.
Awesome giveaway! Thank you for the opportunity.
October 2, 2014 at 9:40 am
I would have the $1000 go toward my hotel for an upcoming trip. A dream vacation to Europe this spring!
Farah says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:40 am
I would apend the $1,000 on a little weekend getaway for me and my husband. We have both been working so hard and having a weekend in another city (maybe somewhere in CA), would be rejuvenating!
October 2, 2014 at 9:40 am
A taste of the good life? I would buy a beautiful gown, feel like a princess!
Jenna says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:41 am
I’m a nanny, and I’m constantly on other people’s schedules and making sure their lives are perfect and running smoothly. It’s a tiring job, especially because I’m with kids all day, cooking and cleaning, and it would be so nice for one week to be able to take a vacation and not be on anyone’s schedules but my own! I work a lot but don’t make enough money to be able to travel anywhere outside of my own city, so this would be a dream come true. Plus, I love Elvis
October 2, 2014 at 9:42 am
I’d put my newly renewed passport to use and take a trip to Europe!
Jenna says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:42 am
^^ I would want to visit Memphis (hence the Elvis at the end). I meant to say that in my comment but forgot. Whoops!
October 2, 2014 at 9:42 am
I would love to revamp my house. New couch, new rugs, new decor. Our couch is old and ugly. It’s time to get a new one, but I don’t think I realized how expensive couches are!! The $1000 would definitely go towards that.
October 2, 2014 at 9:42 am
If I were to win $1000 –
well, after ecstatically freaking out, I would remember I’m
in-over-my head in debt, and I would probably put it toward paying some of that off.
Darian says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:43 am
I’d love to go on a trip with my boyfriend. We both work a lot and don’t get to go on many trips other than to see family. I’m thinking Europe for this one
Sara says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:43 am
I would use the $1000 to buy my dream camera- a Fujifilm x100s! Which is, conveniently just about $1000 in total
October 2, 2014 at 9:43 am
If I won $1000, I will donate $300 for World vision to share my luck! After that, I want to do the skydiving for 18000ft ,and buy some new furniture for my new place:)
October 2, 2014 at 9:44 am
My boyfriend is set to fly out a month from today to Germany where he’ll be stationed for the next two years where he’ll be helping with training exercises. We’re originally from the Chicago suburbs, but both happened to find our way to the southeast (Alabama and Georgia, separated only by the state line). If I had $1,000, I’d spend it on a plane ticket to Germany to help him move into (and decorate) his new home and celebrate his 25th birthday (on November 20th). This move is his first time out of the US and would be mine too if I came along for the ride.
Fiona says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:44 am
I would buy plane tickets for myself and my mother to go to Scotland. We are from there, but haven’t been back to visit our family in years (we live in the USA). I’d love to surprise her with a trip
October 2, 2014 at 9:44 am
My mom turns 60 this year and her dream is to go to either Greece or Hawaii, so I’d get her a flight to one of those places. Probably Greece
October 2, 2014 at 9:44 am
I would use it to fix up a moped! and a little something nice for the parents.
October 2, 2014 at 9:46 am
My boyfriend and I have been dating for almost two years but still have not taken a big trip together! I would use the $1000 to pay for tickets to Italy, a trip we do NOT stop talking about! The $1000 might only cover 1 or 1 1/4 of the ticket but it would help us on our way to Italy!
Maral Arslanian says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:47 am
I would spend that on an appliance I’ve wanted for YEARS! A KitchenAid stand mixer…drool…This would facilitate and inspire my recipe trials that I create and think up for kids in schools!! I’m jumping I’m jumping!!!!
Kelly says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:47 am
I would fly my mentee to DC to visit Howard U, her dream school. Spending her life in Englewood on the south side of Chicago, the trip would be much more than a school visit, but a chance to escape the too often violent and dismal circumstances she lives through day in and day out. And as her dream is to become a judge one day, there is no better place to meet her role models than DC.
October 2, 2014 at 9:47 am
I’d immediately use the money for a plane ticket to Austria, where my mom spent her my-age-right-now years. I’ve been working towards it for a long while. With the ticket paid for I could actually have the vacation of my dreams with my savings, instead of the low-budget trip that’s in the works! I think this is a sign
October 2, 2014 at 9:47 am
I am an artist in SoCal and have a piece in a show in November at the Yale University Art Gallery…..I’m hoping to tack on a few days in New York when I fly out for it, and I have my eye on this GORGEOUS West Village apartment on Airbnb that’s a wee bit out of my price range. I have two small kiddos and therefore not a lot of alone time, and I live in a sleepy little surf town, and so this little sojourn to one of the best cities anywhere would be the perfect taste of city life to hold me over for a while!!
October 2, 2014 at 9:48 am
If I was given $1,000 I would spent it towards my dad’s hospital bills. My dad was in ICU for over two weeks, needing multiple blood transfusions and surgeries. He was released yesterday, and his bills total over $50,000 and he has to pay 20% of that out of pocket. I know it wouldn’t completely help but it would definitely help take away some of the bill.
October 2, 2014 at 9:48 am
This is an incredible giveaway!. I would use the $1000 for some plane tickets for me and my husband . We have been talking and dreaming up our dream trip to canada for awhile now but don’t have the finances for the trip. This would be so awesome!!. Thanks diet coke and design love fest :).
October 2, 2014 at 9:48 am
I would get a hotel room for a weekend and get all my friends to come and just have a quick, mini vacation!
October 2, 2014 at 9:48 am
I would love a new pair of boots, a new pair of glasses, and some new wardrobe essentials for fall and winter–sweaters, jeans, a jacket! My clothes are so old and blah, I never buy things for myself and it would make getting up for work in the mornings a lot more exciting!
October 2, 2014 at 9:49 am
As much as I would love to update my fall wardrobe, fly to San Fran to surprise my best friend or take a week vacation to a remote island. I put all those dreams on hold to pay off my debit. #beagrownup
Kellie says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:50 am
I would get a new laptop to make it easier to design on my computer from home!
October 2, 2014 at 9:50 am
i would love to win tickets to california and a rental car to drive down the coast! i’ve been wanting to do this with my husband and it would be a great babymoon adventure!
October 2, 2014 at 9:50 am
I would surprise my hubby with plane tickets to Hawaii. Every year his best friends (pro-surf photogs) travel to the North Shore to shoot the surf, and we’ve been dying to get away with them. Would be a super awesome way to spoil the man who has spoiled me for so many years!
October 2, 2014 at 9:50 am
I would use the 1,000$ to kickstart a mini documentary series I’ve been dreaming of starting to promote local artists in Houston! I just got home from film school a month ago and I’m ready to jump in!
October 2, 2014 at 9:50 am
My husband and I have been dreaming of a king size bed, but it won’t be in the budget until he finishes grad school. With $1000 from Diet Coke I would love to be able to surprise him with an earlier upgrade.
October 2, 2014 at 9:51 am
I would style and decorate my parents bedroom to give them the sancturay they have always deserved.
nina says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:51 am
Totally plane tickets. Maybe just spin the globe? See where I end up!
Tina says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:51 am
Take a trip and stay in a nice hotel! I’m always staying at friends homes and touring places where I know somebody so that I can stay cheap. With $1000 I would splurge and get a great hotel room and order room service!
Anonymous says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:51 am
Attend the next blogshop class in L.A. & get inspired by the location, warmth & creative designers!
suzette says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:51 am
$1000 towards a holiday with my kids
October 2, 2014 at 9:53 am
I would love to start up a small screen printing shop in my home. I have a few things to get started but $1000 would allow me to buy an exposure unit and bulk supplies. It is my handmade printing dream!
Lana says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:53 am
If I won 1000$ I would buy a new sofa for my grandmother. She is 87 years old lady, full of joy and wisdom but very ill as well. She is spending most of her time sitting in an old sofa and can not afford a new one and than she say- “oooo this old one will last longer then me”laugh and change the subject of discussion. I mouved to Danmark since January and I miss the most my grandmum and her stories.
Katie says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:53 am
I would put it towards planning little memorable adventures for my children and my husband! From taking them to fly on a plane for their first time to a train ride up to chicago, cooking classes together, Disney World, and so much more! This would be a huge blessing!
October 2, 2014 at 9:53 am
New bedding for my king bed!! We are still using my bedding from my queen bed from two years ago before I got married!!
October 2, 2014 at 9:54 am
I always take any extra money I have and put it towards a trip! I would buy a plane ticket and take a trip to Paris! I have always wanted to go.
October 2, 2014 at 9:54 am
I would to win $1,000 to spend at a flea market to buy beautiful “junk” and create fun and inspirational home decor. I love bringihg old things to life and with $1,000 the sky would be the limit.
Lana says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:55 am
And our drinking diet cola . I become emotional and send it before finishing.
October 2, 2014 at 9:55 am
When my grandma died my mom said that she regretted never taking trips with her mother. With the $1000 I would put this towards a trip that my mother & I could take! Think Barcelona! Think Rome! Think a mother & daughter taking on Paris!
Best of luck to everyone & thank you for the opportunity!
Sara says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:56 am
If I had an extra $1000, I would buy a roundtrip flight from Columbus, Ohio to Helsinki to see my boyfriend in Finland for Valentine’s Day!
October 2, 2014 at 9:56 am
I would definitely put this money towards a vacation with my love! We’ve been doing long distance, which SUCKS. I would love to go somewhere other than my home or his!
Libby says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:56 am
I would buy a giant luxurious king sized bed! You spend half your life in bed. You do important, restful, healthy things there. You share your most intimate moments there. It should be fabulous! I would buy the best mattress set I could get, white crispy percale Egyptian cotton sheets, and I would stay in bed all weekend rolling around. (which is something I almost never do). That is living.
Jenny says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:56 am
What an awesome giveaway! For me the good life means spending time in nature with my family, exploring and adventuring and enjoying each other. So my $1000 prize would be awesome new camping equipment. A tent big enough to sleep four, sleeping bags, tons of bug spray, a camp stove, the works. Fingers crossed!
October 2, 2014 at 9:56 am
My boyfriend and I have been long-distance for 2 and half years because our jobs have tied us to different cities. It has been the hardest few years of my life, and we’ve had to work so hard to keep our relationship, solid, stable and healthy. He’s my best friend and the love of my life, he is constantly flying out to see me and I’d love to surprise him with a trip of my own to see him and then have the two of us finally go on the vacation to Nicaragua we’ve been talking about for a year now.
L McLean says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:57 am
Great contest, too bad only for domestics. I will add anyways, In the last 8 months I had several items ‘ of some daily importance kick the bucket ‘, car, cell phone & computer. I haven’t been able to replace all so. I would purchase a new IPhone, take a trip up North to capture the beauty of the colours of Autumn, stay at Taboo or similar resort & live the fine life, even if only for one day/weekend !
Becky says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:57 am
If I could win a $1000 prize, it would be a getaway with my boyfriend. We have been together for over five years and we have never taken a vacation just the two of us. We only get to see each other on the weekends because we live an hour and a half apart and to spend a few extra days together somewhere (anywhere!) just being together would really make me and my boyfriend feel like we’re really living the life.
This is a really great, fun, and beautiful giveaway. Way to go DLF, you guys are bringing someone’s dream to life. Love it!
B.
October 2, 2014 at 9:57 am
I love traveling and have always wanted to visit the beautiful ocean-side city of Mendocino, CA. If I had a spare $1000, I would purchase a plane ticket from southern CA to San Francisco and from there, rent a car and road trip up PCH to Mendocino. Driving up PCH with the ocean on one side would allow me to enjoy both the journey AND the destination!
Katie says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:58 am
A new couch! Mine has been scratched to death by my cats and while I can’t stand looking at it, I cannot afford to replace it.
October 2, 2014 at 9:58 am
hmmmm…that is tough. I immediately think of all the things I would get my husband and daughter, but wait! This is for me! I would definitely blow that $1000 on a new refrigerator. Which is guess is kind of for them too…but I buy the groceries, so mainly for me. Dreaming of my new French door refrigerator…
October 2, 2014 at 9:58 am
I would fly back from London to Tasmania, Australia for mine of my best friends weddings. She is a one in a million girl and I am beyond sad I cannot afford to be there for her special day. She met her fiancé to be years ago at collage and always knew he was the one. They were always meant to be but didn’t know it until meeting up years later. What fairy tale! This would be a dream come true to be able to see them end up together.
Sandy says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:59 am
Ahh! When I saw this I knew exactly what I’d want to do!!!!
My boyfriend and I just began renovation on our home and although you’d think “nicer appliances” or “designer lighting”, I’d really much rather have a weekend AWAY from the clanking, banging, and saw dust
I’ve been dying to visit Big Sur which is only a 3 hour drive from us in SF. I heard that Post Ranch Inn is just unbelievably gorgeous and that Glen Oaks is also a beautiful gem. I’d love to just spend a weekend away and forget about all the chaos and planning and COST that is currently going into our home since we won’t be able to do any longer trips (saving vacay days until the holidays).
October 2, 2014 at 9:59 am
I am transitioning into a new chapter of my life working in suburbia. If I had $1000, I would spend part of it on a weekend getaway/staycation to visit my friend in the Appalachians closeby. I would also buy a new bed so that I can move into my own place. I would also get new comfy loafers for work that I’ve been eyeing from Ralph Lauren because I recently injured my feet from wearin flats. Finally, I would buy new purses for work because all of mine have been falling apart. Marshall’s and TJMaxx have been having great sales but I would faint of happiness for a Mansur Gavriel.
Cory says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:59 am
I’m a simple guy, and I like simple taste. I would want a trip around my own city, enjoying the best parts of it. I live in Portland, Oregon, and the good is the star of the show. I would dine at the best places, share my food with the best people (my friends and family), and enjoy myself to the fullest extent if the law
October 2, 2014 at 9:59 am
I would use the money to buy a plane ticket to Italy for the day after I take the bar exam in July! I’ve been working nonstop for the last 2+ years of law school, and could really use a break after it’s all finally over. It would be hard to afford on my own with my student loans and the cost of the bar exam itself ($3000+).
Madalyn says:
October 2, 2014 at 9:59 am
My dream $1,000 to make my life as sweet as Coke would be spent on overdue medical bills & to help pay for other health-related items I lack, so I may continue working towards leading a more fulfilling & fruitful life. I have a genetic disorder with many serious issues which have made finishing college currently impossible & living a “normal” working professional life difficult. True sweetness to me is health & happiness & when I am better equipped with those two things I will be able to better actualize my other dreams of fancy material goods, global travels, & other lovely things to share with loved ones & those in need.
Anonymous says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:00 am
I would want to take a blog shop class with my best friend/business partner so we could really get our blog and website up and running and looking the way we dream! A trip to L.A. From Santa Cruz and some creative inspiration would be so amazing for us!!
Kate says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:00 am
I would buy a new bed and a dining room set!
October 2, 2014 at 10:00 am
I would purchase shell chairs for my dining room, definitely need an upgrade from the ikea fold outs I have!
October 2, 2014 at 10:01 am
I’ve been living in the same apartment for 5 years now, and have had the same ‘just out of college’ furniture for longer than that. I would love to upgrade two of my *second hand* IKEA pieces — my bed and chair. It would do a lot to make my home feel more pleasant and lovely.
October 2, 2014 at 10:02 am
I just got a new job, and the dress code requires you to be really stylish and dressy. I would use the $1000 to revamp my wardrobe and buy some statement pieces (my ultimate dream would be buying from NETAPORTER.COM).
Kellie says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:02 am
Was just visiting my Mom in LA and i’d use the $1000 towards a new car for her. She’s had the same one for YEARS and would be able to go all over without worry. And not worrying about her would be a nice thing for me.
October 2, 2014 at 10:03 am
If I won $1000 I would like to buy a plane ticket to New York. I would see a couple of broadway shows, try delis and pizza joints, and wander around the city streets. This would be a perfect getaway and a complete dream come true!
October 2, 2014 at 10:04 am
As a newlywed – $1000 more for our Trip to Greece – would so help! Next year we plan to do our Honeymoon/1st Anniversary to visit Greece – visit Athens, Santorini and hopefully hop onto other gorgeous islands as well!
Martha says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:04 am
Getting away for an extra long weekend with my 3 sisters. We’re all busy with work, job searching, and college, it would be nice to get away and bond. Last time was 3 years ago, we drove up to see CA coast and the Red Woods. That was the best time, staying at inn’s, stopping to see the beaches, staying up talking and laughing. You never feel closer than when you’re away and carefree with people you love.
October 2, 2014 at 10:04 am
I would get tickets for my husband and I to go visit our best friends in Hawaii. We never got a honeymoon because he’s in the Air Force and got called away for a mission right after our wedding. He’s never gotten to travel to a location like that and he’s so hard working and heroic and he deserves a trip that isn’t just about protecting our country from scary bad guys.
October 2, 2014 at 10:04 am
My husband and I just purchased our first home – and we’re so excited! However, we have an embargo on furniture purchases. I desperately want a dining room table and chairs so we can host friends and family for dinner. I’ve been eyeing the 60″ Parsons table with a marble top and an elm base from Crate and Barrel for a while now. It’s basically my dream table. I’d love to buy that and then collect some amazing vintage chairs from local furniture marts and put it all together.
Sho says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:05 am
If I had $1000… I could FINALLY finish my DIY kitchen renovation.
I began by removing the 6 layers of paint from the 80+ year old cabinets… By hand. I could really use new hardware, and hobby board to create a new facade. I really want a functioning kitchen. I will eventually get around to adding an apron sink, subway tiles, butcher block countertops, and stainless appliances… But one obstacle at a time.
Oh, and… my closet is very tired of pretending to be a pantry.
Heidi says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:06 am
I would buy a Ryonet 4-color screenprinting kit to use for starting my own business.
October 2, 2014 at 10:06 am
I would use $1,000 for a new couch in our living room. Our space is in desparate need of a new one, and it is one of those items you always put off buying because it usually costs a pretty penny.
October 2, 2014 at 10:07 am
October 2, 2014 at 10:08 am
Travel! I’d use the funds towards plane tickets to HI for my husband, our little kiddos, and I to get one more taste of summer! I’ve been dying to take a family getaway ever since the babe came along in March.
Laura says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:08 am
My husband and I have always wanted to see the Grand Canyon. Since our 2nd wedding anniversary is coming up. It would be fun to share the amazement together! Great contest.
Afton says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:08 am
Our little story starts with my boyfriend’s family trip to Costa Rica and a return home with a key to his bungalow and the words “I want you to move in with me.”
We live by the beach in a converted 1920s garage. Three ukuleles hang on the walls, his surfboards are rigged to the ceiling, and a hammock swings in the front yard. It’s paradise, but it’s a (serious) work in progress.
To give our $1000 the most weight, updating the place we come home to every day is the constant smile-inducer, count-your-blessings reminder, and sanctuary-builder that would create more happiness over time than any other single expense. There’s no place like home, and giving our 480 square foot cottage an interior design renovation means making this tiny space our own taste (!) of heaven.
Sarah says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:08 am
My husband is a Diet Coke lover, so maybe I’d use the prize to buy him a year’s supply of Diet Coke! Otherwise, I’d use the cash for the dinner I’m hosting for my 30th birthday in November. Cheers!
October 2, 2014 at 10:09 am
Thirteen years ago, I met my best-friend and mentor- my first grade teacher, Mrs. T. Now a sophomore in college, I still value our friendship more than ever! She is one of those teachers who wants to create a personal relationship with her students and invest all of their time and money to ensure they receive the best education and guidance. From planning holiday picnics and classroom parties, to meeting all of her students on a Saturday at the local movie theater to see the latest Disney movie, Mrs. T is truly a kid at heart! She broke the news to me a few months ago that she will be retiring after this year. I would love to spend this money towards a reunion of all of her former students. Mrs. T truly deserves the world (and more!), so I want to make sure she knows how much her students are grateful for her years of teaching.
October 2, 2014 at 10:09 am
I have been wanting a nice bicycle. I just recently test rode one and I had forgotten how much I love to ride. I would love to go out riding with the kids.
October 2, 2014 at 10:09 am
I would go on a trip! I have never been out of the country before… mainly because I am a poor fresh out of college gal! BUT I’ve always heard that traveling is the only thing that you can buy that makes you richer. I’d like to experience that. With diet coke in hand of course!
October 2, 2014 at 10:09 am
I fell in love with a boy in Belgium, I live in the US. So I’m moving there – 1000 dollars would help pay for my plane ticket, or shipping my things. Living the life to me, is getting to share it with him.
October 2, 2014 at 10:09 am
I would fly to Kauai with my boyfriend and explore the entire island! I’d want to hike, kayak, and snorkel there. It would be so great to relax in a nice hotel at the end of each day.
October 2, 2014 at 10:10 am
My husband and I got married and then had 2 babies in the first 2 years of our marriage. Fast forward those babies are now 4 & 5 and we haven’t had a single night away, together, without those babies – EVER! We live very far away from family, so we never have anyone to keep the kids. And, all of our “trips” involve flying to visit our family, so we never get to really vacation. The $1000 would allow me to plan a surprise get-away for me and my husband, because I could afford to pay for a babysitter to keep the kids the whole weekend! We could take a romantic trip to Palm Springs, check-in to the Viceroy, schedule massages and a nice dinner – sleep in! That would be a dream come true! Great contest!
October 2, 2014 at 10:10 am
I’d take my husband for a romantic night at a hotel in Napa and dinner at the French Laundry. He’s been supporting me through grad school and it leaves us so tight on cash that we’ve sacrificed celebrating HIS milestones and accomplishments. He’s a foodie and has been stuck with only my cooking for so long to support my dreams, he deserves the perfect meal.
Abby says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:10 am
Suprising my best friend who just moved across the country! Plane tickets and money to spend exploring his new city!
October 2, 2014 at 10:11 am
if i had a thousand dollars i would be able to go to visit my grandma in mexico, i haven’t been able to see her in 7 years and it would be a dream come true to be able to visit her and the rest of my family that i haven’t seen in years
kelsey says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:11 am
It would be to splurge on a honeymoon suite for my wedding coming up! We’re pretty short on cash with my fiance being in medical school and I being the sole supporter. It’s a dream to even be able to get married!
October 2, 2014 at 10:12 am
I’d love to spend a weekend at the Parker Hotel in Palm Springs. It is so gorgeous and would be such an amazing getaway for my boyfriend and I. My job has been beyond hectic recently and I’d like to have a weekend where we could both relax.
Wendy D says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:12 am
Since I’ll be starting graduate school soon, I would want a tablet or iPad.
October 2, 2014 at 10:13 am
I would spend it on two round trip tickets for my husband and I to go away for the weekend to celebrate our 2nd anniversary. It’s been a tough year with a miscarriage, deaths in both of our families and challenging experiences at work and through it all we have held on tight and grown closer. It would be so fun to celebrate our marriage and spend the weekend away! Thank you for the opportunity Diet Coke and DLF!
Heidi says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:13 am
I would love to win to take a vacation with my little family (just had a baby) OR maybe mama needs a new wardrobe. I haven’t bought anything new for myself in years! Well unless you count maternity clothes
October 2, 2014 at 10:14 am
If I was given $1000 I would use it to purchase a new macbook air and adobe creative cloud for my budding small business. I hate buying extravagant things for just myself, and the money I have been saving for a new computer I’ve spent on things for my family. But in order to take my small business to the next step there are a few major expenses to take care of!
audrey says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:14 am
i would definitely book a ticket to europe. been dying to go back and visit spain where i studied 10 years ago.
Meeta says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:15 am
If I won a $1000 today, I would love to spend it on expanding my library of design books, buy a new comfy mattress, and use the left over money for a road trip up to Portland and Seattle!
lara says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:16 am
my husband and I are going to Europe in March – this would pay for all of the hotels – Dublin, Nice, Florence and Rome!
October 2, 2014 at 10:17 am
With $1000 I would buy a new TV. Ours is so old it looks ancient. It’s obviously not a necessity so it would be such a great ‘splurge’!
Cam says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:17 am
I would love to take the grand and put it towards school and credit debt. Or purchase a camera and start my graphic/marketing company making marketing materials for small businesses.
Allison says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:17 am
Had I been asked this question a week ago my answer would be dramatically different. However, with my computer mysteriously giving up on me recently, I’d definitely put the money towards a new one.
October 2, 2014 at 10:17 am
Kelsey says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:17 am
…”it’s about the things you could only imagine happening, actually happening.”
I would spend $1,000 paying off (part of) my credit card debt. It’s hard to imagine a world where I wouldn’t have to pay interest, so to see that actually happen would be amazing. Thanks for the opportunity!!
Sarah says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:18 am
I would definitely have to say that I would rescue a dog with this extra money. There are so many high-kill shelters, and dogs that are at risk of loosing their lives that I would love to use the $1000 to rescue a dog, and then donate the rest to a program that helps rescue these animals from high-kill shelters. I know that it is cliche to say that I want to donate the winning money, but rescuing animals is something that I am truly passionate about. And being able to rescue just one would a dream come true!
October 2, 2014 at 10:18 am
I got let go from my waitressing job after I had my son six months ago, and still cannot find employment. My taste would be a professional wardrobe so when I finally get an interview I will look so fresh they will know I’m worth hiring.
October 2, 2014 at 10:19 am
Honestly? Probably a $1000 gift card to IKEA. My place kind of has no furniture right now. Moving is expensive!
Wendy says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:19 am
Diet Coke reminds me of the last tips of Indian summer in Southern California when the sun is low but the days are still hot. I’d spend the $1000 on a (2) night get-away with my honey to the Parker in Palm Springs and dinner there at Mr. Parker. It’s our wedding anniversary on the 11th and it would be lovely to be able to afford to get away.
October 2, 2014 at 10:20 am
heather says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:20 am
I would take a few weekend trips to cities close by. I always think things are “so close, but so far” and so I never take those day trips and stay in a cute bed and breakfast. I live in Athens GA, but have never really been to Nashville, Ashville, Charleston or Savannah. Basically I would put this money towards experiences. Fingers crossed!
Jordan says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:22 am
Without a doubt, Two tickets to Paris for me and my husband!
We are both designers and have been dreaming to go…we never went on a honeymoon. It would be such an inspiring trip. I hope I win!
Ciara says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:23 am
I’m a recent grad so I RARELY get to indulge in the sweeter things in life, and if I do you know its going to be a cheap NYC manicure. I’ve been working 60 hours weeks since graduation back in 2013 to keep those loan sharks off my back, which let me tell you is quite hard work! Speaking of backs, how awesome does a massage sound?! Someone to knead out the knots and tangles that come along with a day of working with (sweet..and sometimes punky) kids. Or..perhaps…what about a mud bath? I can’t even imagine the kinds of toxins my stressed body would release…they may need to invest in special equipment.
The moral of the story is, if I was granted 1,000$ to make my life as sweet (if not sweeter) than Diet Coke, I would take myself on a retreat..something that on my own with my income, would NEVER happen. Soak up complete and total bliss for a few days…and return to New York City rejuvenated and refreshed…almost like having a giant diet coke! If there were any leftovers I would (finally!) make a significant donation to Autism Speaks…because those beautiful kids are what got me into school in the first place, and are the reason I don’t mind spending 60 hours of my day away from home.
Well there’s my long winded response…sheesh I could really go for a diet coke now…
October 2, 2014 at 10:23 am
For $1,000 I would put it toward student loan debt and have a month where Im stress free of making payments to debt and monthly bills. It would be glorious:)
October 2, 2014 at 10:23 am
I would put that nice chunk of change towards ME. I’d get a massage and a facial, somehow buy the pair of Beatrice Valenzuela caged sandals I’ve been dying for and some other pretty and lovely clothes, get my hair cut and colored the way I want it–just feel good stuff!!! Great giveaway, thank you:)
October 2, 2014 at 10:23 am
It would be my plane ticket to France for the beginning of my one year journey around the world.
Thanks
October 2, 2014 at 10:24 am
I would never do a stay-cation in Los Angeles because I simply can’t justify spending the money on a hotel room when I have a perfectly good bed at home. So my dream prize would be a stay-cation sleepover party with my best friend in Los Angeles, like at the Ace Hotel or the Palihouse, plus a fabulous dinner at a great restaurant with drinks and dessert, and a night out on the town exploring the local surroundings. The next day, a little shopping of course.
October 2, 2014 at 10:24 am
My boyfriend and I have our 6 year anniversary this month and I would put the money towards a splurge celebration. Maybe a weekend getaway, nice dinner, extra nice wine (we were just planning on cooking dinner at home). We haven’t been able to celebrate or spend much time together since he went back to school and is broke, exhausted and constantly working. I support him pursuing his dream, and he was patient with me through college (we are both designers) but it has been difficult to feel that romance of simpler times.
October 2, 2014 at 10:25 am
I’d splurge on a new West Elm couch that I’ve had my eye on!!
October 2, 2014 at 10:26 am
I’m getting married in December and I have a few family members (mostly from my Dad’s side) that cannot make arrangements to attend the wedding. I would surprise my Dad by ensuring these guests could attend Getting excited just thinking about it!
October 2, 2014 at 10:27 am
I would want to either buy my Chanel slip ons or pay my credit card!!!!!
October 2, 2014 at 10:27 am
I would be so thankful to have that money for college. i am in my first semester of design school and it is expensive! 1000 would mean i could buy more supplies and have money to spend for traveling to and from school.
October 2, 2014 at 10:27 am
Hmm, California coastal road trip with my favorite cousin Han. Missing her lots! Her birthday’s coming up and it’d be so fun to surprise her! Big Sur has been calling my name for some time now…thanks DLF and Diet Coke!
October 2, 2014 at 10:28 am
I would love a Target shopping spree! I shop there all of the time anyway but, this way, I wouldn’t have to feel guilty about it! Hello, Merry Christmas and Happy Wardrobe for me and my two cute kids.
Megan e says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:28 am
I would buy a ticket to Parma, Italy to visit my best friend Mark that I haven’t seen in 3 years. Drink lots of yummy wine, eat a ton of pasta and hug my friend that I miss so much. Oh God it would be amazing.
October 2, 2014 at 10:28 am
I would the $1000 to fund a trip to Greece. I’ve been so exhausted by school and other troubles; I’m sure that a trip to the white villas with perfect sea views would be just as sweet as a diet coke.
October 2, 2014 at 10:28 am
i would buy as many plane tickets home as I could… sf to LA
October 2, 2014 at 10:28 am
If I had $1000 I would stay at the korakia pensione for two nights with my hubby! We love palmsprings but the korakia is always out of our price range. Staying there would just be incredible!
October 2, 2014 at 10:29 am
My dream is a Christmas vacation for my 2 children and husband (and our dog too). At Williamsburg Va. We would see the beautiful Christmas lights at Busch Gardens and the seasonal decorations of Colonial Wiilliamsburg. We would enjoy a hotel room nicer than our usual budget friendly alternative.
October 2, 2014 at 10:29 am
I would – and this is no joke – offer the money to fulfill a heart desire of one or more deprived kids in my town and anybody will know who was willig to spend so much money for it.
October 2, 2014 at 10:29 am
I’d finally get that second dog so my first pup could have a brother to play with!
Maria L says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:29 am
A trip for two to Tulum, Mexico. That’s where my husband and I spent our honeymoon. Nothing like laying out on the white sand looking at the crystal blue water. (With a Diet Coke, of course!) I wish we could go back sometime soon but we can’t afford it.
Nikki says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:30 am
i would use it towards a small getaway for my hubby and I! we both work super hard and I own a business, so taking time away never seems to happen, and it should!
October 2, 2014 at 10:30 am
I would love to travel with my partner to Iceland and see the northern lights! It’s our dream, but after getting out of college we knew it would be a long time before we’d be able to travel. We dream of flying to Iceland, swimming in the blue lagoon and seeing the northern lights from a cozy little home!
Miranda says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:31 am
I’m a student & designer in desperate need of a new laptop, so I would definitely put $1,000 towards buying a new MacBook Pro. My current MBP is on its last leg due to a nearly-fried graphics card… Yay, random shutdowns & kernel panic!
October 2, 2014 at 10:32 am
I would love to have $1,000 paid to Discover to write off almost all of my remaining credit card debt! That would be relevant to sipping a Diet Coke in Bora Bora!
October 2, 2014 at 10:32 am
I would buy a custom farmhouse table! It’s the only thing our house is missing. Xo!
Courtney of Savor Good says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:33 am
thanks for the incredible giveaway! i thought immediately of three different things i would love to do with $1,000: go on a babymoon (probably back to hawaii, our honeymoon destination!) with my husband before our first baby arrives in january, pay off a chunk of our student loans so we can be closer to living debt free (yeah!), or put it toward our down payment for a new home!
October 2, 2014 at 10:35 am
I would buy a new bed. Since 1/3rd of our lives are spent in bed, a great nights rest on a good mattress would be heavenly.
October 2, 2014 at 10:35 am
We’re remodeling our bathroom and I’d use it to buy the amazing walk-in shower that I want but can’t afford.
Cynthia M says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:35 am
As a 26 year old who recently moved out of home to live in Chicago, I’ve quickly learned that I like to spend much more than I make (probably a problem most of us can relate to). As I’m trying to get it together & pay off my credit card debt, I would love the $1000 to help me get there with that huge leap & weight lifted off my shoulders!
October 2, 2014 at 10:36 am
I would………….. Probably pay off my car & get a new one haha. Or go in a sick vacay with my husband. Or go on a shopping spree. Oooh that would be nice. Crossing my fingers!
Sue says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:36 am
Definitely a trip! Never been to South America!
October 2, 2014 at 10:36 am
My husband and I are in the process of becoming foster parents and I would love to use $1000 to create a beautiful and peaceful room for the foster kids that will be coming into our home. What a great giveaway!
October 2, 2014 at 10:37 am
Probably a nice dresser for my room! Or maybe some sort of sister road trip as well! I’ve always wanted to go to Asheville!
October 2, 2014 at 10:38 am
It’s my 5 year anniversary with my amazing boyfriend on October 28th. Unfortunetly we won’t be able to do much for it, (unless we won this prize!) We live In Miami but are both originally from the north east. This past year we have had 6 weddings to attend. Between all the flights, the gifts, the outfits, etc…it doesn’t leave much room for vacations or extra $! Winning this contest would really mean the world to us. It would mean we could finally do something to celebrate our relationship as well as others. Thanks so much for this opportunity!
Trinity says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:38 am
I would give the 1000 to my mom so she and my baby sis could finally get a place of their own. It would be so great for them to finally be able to be stress free
Karess says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:39 am
Shoes shoes shoes and more shoes! $1000 worth of shoes would change my life, I don’t think I’ve bought a single new pair in about 3 years so I would be giddy with delight and swimming in shoes. I can see if now…sipping diet coke through a colorful straw as I try on the flats and pumps and boots oh my!!
Susan says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:40 am
I’d take $1000 worth of updated plumbing in my house!
Carrie says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:40 am
We’re taking a family vacation to Disney World next year and an extra $1,000 would really help to cover airfare!
October 2, 2014 at 10:41 am
A getaway for sure! I’ve always wanted to go to New York in the winter and $1000 could definitely make that happen!
October 2, 2014 at 10:41 am
I would definitely buy a airplane ticket from São Paulo, Brazil to L.A.!
October 2, 2014 at 10:43 am
We have four amazing kids 18, 17, 16 & 13. Our youngest pretty much gets dragged around or left behind with his grandparents/sitters while the “olders” visit colleges, compete in sports or do their thing. This 13 year old awesome dude has down syndrome, and although pretty typical, would get a total thrill to do something special … just for him with Mom and dad. Dunno, Disney – nah, swimming with dolphins – nope. I am sure we’d come up with something pretty cool & adventurous!
October 2, 2014 at 10:44 am
my husband and I are moving into our first home together, so I would furnish our place with mid-century modern pieces and art!
October 2, 2014 at 10:44 am
I would send my parents on a vacation to the Philippines. My mother is Filipina, and always tries to go home every couple of years or so, but money has been tight in recent years, so they haven’t been able to return for a while.
I recently graduated college and found myself at a crossroads when choosing my next step. Law school was an option, and I had received a few lucrative options in corporate work environments. The one option I was in love with, however, was at the art startup I had been interning at for the past 6 months. I went into work every day inspired and eager to roll my sleeves up and pull weight for artists I really believed in. However, the ability to help support my family had always been a driving motivation in school and I wouldn’t be able to do that on an art startup salary.
When I called my parents, paralyzed by the decision ahead of me, their response was simple: at 22, I had been given the rare opportunity to making a living doing something I love and believed in. My ability to send them on exotic vacations or to buy them lavish gifts wouldn’t mean as much for them as parents, as to know I was living and thriving in an environment that fulfilled me, challenged me and supported me.
I took the job. I had never imagined I could feel this happy or fulfilled at such a young age (or on such a low salary!) But this came from having a mother and father who reminded me that the good life isn’t a circumstantial state of being but, rather, achieved through an active pursuit of and insatiable hunger for la bella vita. In gratitude for their invaluable lessons, I would use $1,000 to give my parents a taste of the good life with our family back home in the tropics!
Erin says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:46 am
my boyfriend and I have just spent the last six months working 70 hour weeks on a luxury guest ranch in Wyoming. Our season ends in late October and we can’t wait to get off the ranch! We’re trying to plan a road trip to see our best friends in Seattle for thanksgiving, but our car is having trouble. My $1000 would go towards fixing the car, then going on a much needed “just the two of us” getaway for the holidays.
Sarah says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:46 am
Oh man, where do I start!? I would first take my car in for some much needed TLC. Then I would book a night at the Wythe Hotel in Brooklyn for my boyfriend and I. Both of our birthdays are in October and I would love nothing more than to surprise him with a quick road trip to NY (we live in DC) for a night of delicious food at the Reynard, perfectly mixed cocktails on the roof enjoying the perfect fall weather and overlooking NYC and a stay in the most charming and romantic room with a view. A night and a double birthday celebration we would never forget!
Keya says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:47 am
If you could give me something that would taste as good as diet coke….it would be a trip home to my family and friends! Also, a pass for blogshop online so I could finally begin to master my mortal enemy that is photoshop.
October 2, 2014 at 10:47 am
Oh goodness. I could use $1000 to help pay off my student loans so that I can start saving for a trip to Australia! My (new) husband and I have been putting off the trip for our honeymoon. First things first and then the fun!! I have adventure ready to burst inside of me and Australia seems like such an adventurous place!
October 2, 2014 at 10:48 am
I would buy a new couch for our basement! I’ve got it all picked out!
Natasha says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:48 am
I am in the process of building a tiny cabin in the woods of Whidbey Island, Washington. It’s almost done, save for a couple areas, like tiling the pad on which my wood stove will sit, as well as the small entry area. This has been a labor of love and I’ve mostly built the place with salvaged materials. But my dream is to be able to use beautiful Heath tile, which I’ve always loved. The cost to use my favorite Heath tile in my entry and wood stove area will be about $900, which is beyond my meager budget. But, oh, would it be beautiful! And a little bit of style and luxury in the NW woods….
October 2, 2014 at 10:49 am
I would take my mom on a vacation because she really really deserves it. Maybe to Europe or somewhere tropical? Wherever she wants to go!!
Parvina says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:49 am
Anonymous says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:49 am
We live very close to a small stone company called NK Stone. Every morning on our way out of the neighborhood my two boys and I watch as they move slabs of marble and granite around with their “baby” loading trucks. The boys are fascinated by this process. My eight year old is a bit of a dreamer. He loves blue in any shade. A few weeks ago a slab of marble or granite (I’m not sure the difference) appeared on an end isle. It’s blue, but not solid blue. It’s a dusty blue with swirls of grey and white. It’s the ocean in stone and it’s beautiful. My son remarks on it often, and I’ve day dreamed about putting it in our kitchen. So this would be my dream- the most beautiful piece of stone I’ve ever seen turned into kitchen counters that would remind us every day of the ocean.
Alaine J says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:49 am
One of my three sisters is currently living in Spain for a second year. She is one of my best friends and I hate not being able to see her everyday. My family and I have not been able to all afford to get passports and visit her. We have been planning on saving money and going next June, so with this incredible offer I would use the money to buy my passport as well as my moms and 2 other sisters passports as well as maybe putting some of the money towards a plane ticket.
Thanks so much Bri and diet coke! This is an incredible and wonderful giveaway
October 2, 2014 at 10:50 am
I have always had an eye for photography so with $1000 I would purchase a nice camera and take some photography courses. Photography is a hobby I would like to pick up but currently don’t have the money to do so. The prize would help me discover my true passion for photography.
October 2, 2014 at 10:50 am
I would get my cat, Oliver, the surgery he needs. He has a very large tumor on his leg that is badly affecting his quality of life, but I am still paying off $2,000 in medical bills from his emergency vet visit this past spring, so I’m not able to afford it. He is barely able to walk at this point, and it keeps growing. I rescued him as a stray 9 years ago, and he means so much to me. So it’d definitely be life changing.
October 2, 2014 at 10:51 am
I would love to put the money towards studying abroad in Ireland. It’s been a lifelong dream of mine, but as part of a family with 5 kids in college, I cannot ask my parents to fund such a trip. Although I am saving money on my own, this would be a huge help!
October 2, 2014 at 10:51 am
I would love $1,000 to buy a huge round table for family meals in our new home that will serve as a house of justice for the neighborhood as well as to the kids we will begin to foster and eventually adopt! I have never had a piece of furniture that is high quality enough to last through all the souls that have been in and out of our home, I scour craigslist, garage sales, estate sales, etc… every day for deals! I’ve got to have this table
October 2, 2014 at 10:52 am
I would absolutely adore a pair of black Bianca Christian Louboutin shoes! I’ve always needed a pair of really nice shoes for business events and things of that sort but I could never afford it myself. I have wanted these for as long as I can remember. This would really help me give an impression of a lifetime!
Hannah says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:53 am
Staying at a proper apartment in Paris next April instead of crashing on my sister’s dorm room floor when we go visit her!!!
October 2, 2014 at 10:53 am
I’ve been saving for a new couch for years but something else always seems to pop up that needs the money more. Our A/C will need serviced or our dog will need x-rays, you know how it goes. My couch is a 17 year old hand me down from my parents and it is bright denim blue! It is the most comfortable couch to sit on but I feel like I have more than outgrown this relic from my college days. I’m looking at purchasing the f9 model of couch from Craftmaster through my local Home Comfort dealer. It would feel like such a luxury to replace something for a purely aesthetic reason.
Kelley says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:53 am
I would use the prize to take a trip to Big Sur for the weekend with my husband. My birthday is October 9th and I have a long weekend, because of Columbus Day. We are dying to go on a trip, but just had to spend a lot of money to fly home to see a dying relative, so we don’t have the extra for a birthday trip. I have never been to Big Sur, but it is an easy drive from our house in LA and I have been dying to go ever since I saw your pictures. Pick me! It would be the best birthday surprise ever!
aimee siegel says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:54 am
I would buy a plane ticket to go to Europe for Christmas. I have always dreamt of visiting a Christmas market in Germany or Austria ..and a horse-drawn sleigh ride, of course. And, if somehow, this $1000 could include a husband (only THE right one, of course.) to accompany me, that would be great too
Kim says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:54 am
My laptop computer basically broke down last year. I’ve been lucky enough to be able to get by with an old borrowed one from work or a friend, but really need a new one of my own again. I’d use the $1000 to get a MacBook. I really want to learn to use more design-oriented programs like Photoshop and Illustrator, which are better with a Mac, while still using it to create personal documents, stream tv-shows, and play DVDs and music in high quality. Maybe I’d even start my own blog!
Miranda says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:54 am
I am a ceramic artist and I’ve been looking to start my own studio in my home. $1000 would be just enough to buy a wheel and a kiln off ebay and then a little left over for tools and clay. I want to make a dining set for my house as my first project. Thank you!
Kelsey says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:55 am
I would put the $1,000 towards a five year anniversary trip to London with the hubs! It is one of our favorite places and we have been dreaming of going back-the money would help to make that a possibility.
Mary says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:55 am
I would love to have a plane ticket to go abroad next fall. I will be able to pay for my tuition for college, but I will not be able to make enough for my flight. Also, I am paying for all my current schooling with no loans or debt of any kind. It would bring me much joy! Thank you for this opportunity:)
October 2, 2014 at 10:55 am
I am so lucky to have just got engaged with my best friend and the love of my life. We are trying to plan our wedding but still pay our bills and $1000 would be a great start! We want to do as much as we can ourselves, but the one thing I can not compromise on is an amazing photographer. I know this would not pay for the whole cost of a photographer to be there, but it would be a great start.
October 2, 2014 at 10:56 am
I would love a new dining room table and chairs! Our current set is my husband’s ex girlfriend’s that she bought in college from IKEA…we could definitely use an upgrade…
Nelly says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:56 am
Along with my Diet Coke and my film camera, I would stock up on film; then jump in my car and capture where life would take me. I heart film and want to have the excuse to buy more.
Annie Reeves says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:56 am
I live in Charleston, SC, and I love the charm and aesthetics of the city as a whole. I moved here in May, and I haven’t had the chance to experience the incredible hotels or nicest restaurants here – I would love to be able to treat myself and a friend to a staycation here. Then, when people ask my recommendations, I can have a little bit more authority on the topic! Plus, who doesn’t love the feeling of being without responsibility in their own city?!
Brawner says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:57 am
I’d purchase a plane ticket to Buenos Aires, Argentina – I lived there for 6 months during college on a study abroad trip, and left my heart there when I returned home! I’d check in on my old haunts, spend time with my sweet host family, and explore areas of the country that have grown so much since I was last there 8 years ago!
October 2, 2014 at 10:58 am
I would buy myself a king sized bed! I have always wanted one!
Deirdre says:
October 2, 2014 at 10:58 am
$1000 would allow me to throw my older sister the bridal shower of her dreams. She is marrying her perfect match and she deserves a beautiful party to celebrate this new beginning. She is a CNA who works exclusively with Alzheimer’s patients, which can be both physically and emotionally draining. I would love to see this money go to her!
October 2, 2014 at 11:01 am
i would use it to finally go on the european trip with my best friend that we have always wanted to go on!
Layken says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:01 am
I would put it towards my new MacBook I’ve been needing to get. Then I would have no more excuses for not pursuing free lance design and photography more, because my computer just doesn’t stack up. So a $1000 Apple Gift card would make my life seem pretty sweet, almost as sweet as Diet Coke
October 2, 2014 at 11:01 am
With $1,000 I would love to use the money towards a plane ticket to visit somewhere I might not be able to go otherwise. I have a love for travel, but being 26 in Manhattan means all of my income goes to surviving! I haven’t been able to take advantage of being young with nothing holding me back, and this could be the perfect opportunity.
October 2, 2014 at 11:02 am
To pay for my pre-req psychology course at a local college so I can fulfill my dream of becoming an occupational therapist. Would love to work within the Special Needs community and becoming an OT would enable me to do what I love. One pre-req class short of being able to apply to OT school!!!!
October 2, 2014 at 11:03 am
I’d splurge on a 4-day weekend away to rest, recharge, and be inspired. A lil cabin with a view in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, a day at the spa, really good local food and beer, an ultra-sweet vest and quality set of boots to go exploring for years to come. #treatyoself
October 2, 2014 at 11:07 am
This is such a thoughtful giveaway. Thanks so much for the chance to win! I have been considering getting a new iPad because mine is a couple years old and is super slow now, so I would love a $1000 Apple Store gift card. Thanks again!
Ansley says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:07 am
I would use the money to pay for my plane ticket and hotel for the Nike Womens half marathon in SF at the end of this month. Running this half has a lot of emotional significance for me, and in order to pay for it I really had to sacrifice and I’ve basically been living on nothing for the past 6 months. It would mean the world to me to not have to stress so much about my business and just normal life once the half marathon is over.
October 2, 2014 at 11:08 am
As much as I would love to put it towards getting a Proenza Schouler PS1… I would use that towards making the move to NYC upon getting a job there <3
October 2, 2014 at 11:08 am
I would have to say that it would be a Blendtec blender, for staying fit and healthy. That would be the greatest gift.
Maddie W. says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:08 am
October 2, 2014 at 11:08 am
I’d use my winnings for a spa weekend/getaway for myself and my partner. our schedules have become so hectic we only manage about one day a week together. we could use a fabulous, fun reset/togetherness weekend! my body could use a deep-tissue massage.
yes please!
caitlin says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:09 am
i have an enormous back log of sketches i’d love to film and i’m tired of trying to rope my film friends into helping me with them. i would use my winnings to buy a nice camera that shoots HD video so i could start filming my own stuff.
jessi a says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:10 am
I would spoil my mom and take her on a shopping spree. She never buys anything for herself. She’s always worrying about us.
Rebecca says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:11 am
I’d use it to buy lots of Broadway show tickets!
October 2, 2014 at 11:11 am
If I were to win the $1,000 prize I would use it for a little weekend getaway to Palm Springs for my husband and I and stay at the Ace or the Parker. We live in San Diego and just had a baby in April so Palm Springs is far enough for Us to go for now from baby. We would cherish every second of it!!!
Sam Cruz says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:11 am
A dream has always been to take a trip to Tahiti. A grand would help a lot with a plane ticket ! I would love to spend time swimming with the stingrays and sand sharks, and photograph the adventures of what the moment brings! What a taste of the life that would be!
October 2, 2014 at 11:12 am
Plane tickets to Zel-am-See, Austria with my hubby to revisit a stop from our honeymoon for our 4th wedding anniversary!
October 2, 2014 at 11:12 am
There are so few things that are as good as finding a cold diet coke in the fridge… but one would be to visit my best friend in London – Oonagh, who through years of university and travel always understood that my need for diet coke was as great as hers for coffee! Whether we were in Paris or Provence, London England or London Ontario, the only thing that’s been more consistent that Diet Coke in my life is my friendship with Oonagh!
October 2, 2014 at 11:12 am
I would book an expensive hotel room in Big Sur for a relaxing weekend with my hubby.
Ana says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:13 am
A plane ticket to visit my family in Spain for Christmas! My sister in law is pregnant, and I am looking forward to seeing her big belly with my future niece or nephew in there. I know I will be missing the birth, so will only get to see the new addition to our family when they’re a couple months old this summer. It would mean the world to me to fly home to see them, I am very very close to my family, and hate that we live so far away from each other. Being surrounded by them this Christmas would be my biggest Christmas wish!
Jill says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:14 am
Diet Coke could make my life sweeter by giving me $1000 to spend on a plane ticket to Paris!
Ana says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:14 am
A plane ticket to visit my family in Spain for Christmas! My sister in law is pregnant, and I am looking forward to seeing her big belly with my future niece or nephew in there. I know I will be missing the birth, so will only get to see the new addition to our family when they’re a couple months old this summer. It would mean the world to me to fly home to see them, I am very very close to my family, and hate that we live so far away from each other. Being surrounded by them this Christmas would be my biggest wish!
Kinsey says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:15 am
There is a saying that nothing tastes as good as skinny feels – the only time that doesn’t apply is Diet Coke! Where you can have the best of both worlds! If I had $1,000, I would use it towards a gym membership and dance classes. I’ve gained 23 pounds over the last 2 years and I’ve been feeling pretty yucky about myself. It’s such a strange position to be in when none of your clothes fit you but your heart hurts so you have no desire to buy another new and commit to the new size that you’re ashamed of. Gym memberships are expensive, as are individual classes so I try to lose weight on my own but know the environment of a gym would enhance my ability to focus and execute my goals. Thank you for the opportunity to share with you and good luck to everyone that enters the contest. What a great and fun experience to be able to turn someone’s life around.
October 2, 2014 at 11:15 am
My dad does so much for me and I want to give him something – he’s always wanted to go to Scotland. I’d use if for a father daughter trip to Scotland!
October 2, 2014 at 11:15 am
i’d *love* to take a week-long trip to iceland by myself and do some writing and photography.
Britt says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:15 am
It’s a no-brainer. I’d head down to Seattle to attend the upcoming Fleetwood Mac concert and a new fringed kimono to show off my moves that night!
October 2, 2014 at 11:15 am
Planning our wedding! $1000 bucks would help!
Genevieve says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:15 am
I’ve always wanted to host an amazing dinner party for my friends and I. With that being said, I would use the 1K to plan the ultimate dinner party at the Unique Space.
Anonymous says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:15 am
To make life as good as a diet coke taste … Using 1000 dollars towards airfare to Greece this summer would be HEAVEN. Me and my husband have been invited to see two of our best friends get married there and it would mean the world to us to see that happen. Friends are a blessing and to see them happy and married would be the best gift. Greece, hopefully we see you soon!
October 2, 2014 at 11:16 am
To make life as good as a diet coke taste … Using 1000 dollars towards airfare to Greece this summer would be HEAVEN. Me and my husband have been invited to see two of our best friends get married there and it would mean the world to us to see that happen. Friends are a blessing and to see them happy and married would be the best gift. Greece, hopefully we see you soon!
Susy says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:17 am
Ever since I was a little girl I’ve been dreaming of having the perfect sofa.. cozy yet chic! I can’t tell you how many sofa’s I’ve bought in lieu of getting the perfect one! With myself, 7 kids and an adoring hubby living in a cute little house with an absolutely awkward living room layout, the perfect size sofa would be this girls dream come true!!!
October 2, 2014 at 11:17 am
Nothing would make my life sweeter than making my life safer.. and being able to purchase winter tires for my car would definitely be on the top.
hannah says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:18 am
I am putting on my senior art show and I need money for supplies and materials to put on a beautiful show. Being a broke college student, i don’t have enough money to buy art supplies.
October 2, 2014 at 11:20 am
First things first, I would buy the Adobe Creative Suite. Then I would skip college for the day, go on a mini-shopping spree, and finally dye my hair pink! And grab a coffee. Obvi
Monica says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:20 am
I would definitely splurge on a weekend getaway for me and my boyfriend of 6 years. Maybe Seattle or the Bay. We’ve been working crazy hours, and just haven’t had as much time for each other as we’d like. It would be amazing to just pick a weekend a go and RELAX and spend time.
October 2, 2014 at 11:22 am
If I was given $1000 – I would spruce of my dad’s back porch. This is where we have many, many family gatherings and although it is humble, it isn’t very versatile. I would get new functional seating as well as a new grill space. We like DIY projects so this could go towards the funds of making his home, where all of my family visits, even more beautiful for us. He surely deserves it. <3
October 2, 2014 at 11:23 am
A weekend getaway for me and my husband. We’d love to stay at the Korakia! We haven’t had a real vacation since we got married 6 years ago and it would be lovely to get away get some rest and relaxation.
Martha says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:24 am
If I had $1000, I would buy two tickets to Hawaii for my mom and dad. They’ve been dreaming of a Hawaii vacation for years.
Lindsay says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:24 am
I’ve always wanted to stand on my chair in a crowded but snazzy bar and shout “Drinks on me!”
Teresa T says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:24 am
With $1,000 I would be so excited to donate it to my childhood friend, Hannah, who has stage IV Pancreatic Cancer. Recently, her cancer has stopped responding to chemo, but there is a clinical trial in Dallas that could potentially save her life. Problem is, you must pay for the $55,000 treatment up-front, out of pocket, and we have been trying so hard to raise the money for her. We’re really close, and $1,000 would be more than I could ever afford to help her. I feel like a lot of people have given up on her, as Pancreatic Cancer is a tough fight that is often lost, but Hannah has so much to live for. She is on 28 and a veteran, with a son, new husband, sisters, and nieces and nephews, and not to mention the most amazing parents who are like my own. I can’t see a better way to celebrate “the good life” than giving the opportunity of life to someone else. <3
You can learn more about her journey by following the link under my name.
liz says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:24 am
What a fun giveaway! I would buy a really gorgeous purse! I have one designer bag that I use pretty much everyday for the last 3 years, and I would love to keep adding to my collection!
October 2, 2014 at 11:25 am
I’ve been dreaming of a Joshua Tree vacation. I would use the money to buy plane tickets for my husband and I, and would love to stay in this amazing geodome! https://m.airbnb.com/listings/2093755
Shannon says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:26 am
I am going to Iceland in February so booking some sweet swanky hotel there would really be living the life.
Lynda Rhoads says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:26 am
Buy this West coaster a plane ticket to the East coast to visit my best friend – we’re too broke to make it happen – we need your help!! An extra goes to fun & food around the NYC!
October 2, 2014 at 11:27 am
Would love to spend it on spring break! Youre only this young once, seize the day!
Sarah says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:28 am
If I won, I would use the $1,000 to buy a DSLR camera. I’m currently using a digital camera to take photos and the upgrade would be awesome, especially for my blog
Naomi says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:28 am
My mom and I are very close, and after I moved to LA two years ago we have been dreaming about going on a mini-vacation together. I would buy my mom and I plane tickets to NYC, which has been my mom’s dream for quite some time now. We will eat good food (a lot of it), explore all the great museums the city has to offer, see a show, and of course – enjoy a little shopping.
Kelly says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:28 am
I would buy a plane ticket to my friend’s wedding in Italy this summer!
October 2, 2014 at 11:28 am
I’d travel back to Iceland!
lisa says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:28 am
I would spend on a trip to see my family. I live across the country from them and flights to their rural community are usually pretty expensive, meaning I can only get home once or twice a year. This would go to a plane ticket and maybe a little day trip for my family and me once I arrived.
October 2, 2014 at 11:29 am
Hi there! If I were to win $1,000 I would definitely use it towards me and my husbands savings to be able to have a baby!We just got married in June and we are patiently waiting to have a baby. I hope I win!
October 2, 2014 at 11:31 am
I grew up in Oklahoma and currently live in Portland, OR. My mom is turning 60 in January and I’m dyeing to fly in and surprise her and take her out to a fancy dinner. She means the world to me and I’d love to be able to tell her that in person while celebrating her milestone birthday.
anika says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:31 am
With $1000 I would give my bedroom a makeover… new bedding, lighting, rug, curtains, and if there is money leftover new towels! That would be AMAZING! There is also a Dyson fan my husband is obsessed with. Our little babe was manhandling one the other day and that would be a huge splurge but so worth it!
Stephen K says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:32 am
I’m an LA resident working in the non-profit sector. Toward the end of this year I will be moving to South East Asia for my wife’s new job. Unfortunately we don’t have the funds to visit family and say goodbye to our closest friends and family. My dream would be to have a farewell tour that will give us the memories to cherish when we’re abroad. My wife and I would drive from LA to SF (My parents), fly to Minneapolis (Her parents) and then end the trip in DC (My brother’s family and extended family). Wish us luck.
October 2, 2014 at 11:33 am
If I won $1000 I would put it towards there remaining balance I have left for school, nothing better then being debt free! #workingonit
October 2, 2014 at 11:34 am
I live in a studio apartment so inexpensive furniture that fits is really tricky to find! I would use the $1000 to buy a new sofa/futon/couch and smaller chair. Thanks for offering this giveaway!
October 2, 2014 at 11:39 am
October 2, 2014 at 11:43 am
My dream up award would be two plane tickets to Hawaii. My boyfriend and I have been working so hard without taking a vacation for a while! It would be very nice to have a mini trip to Hawaii! We would switch to Diet Coke to reduce calories so that I can be bikini ready for this amazing vacation by the beach!
October 2, 2014 at 11:43 am
I’m from San Francisco but currently a student at Otis College of Art of Design. My family has never really been financially stable. Being evicted numerous times and having my family be separated into different countries are experiences that have shaped me in a peculiar yet humbling way.
Moving to Los Angeles for college was unbelievable. Not only did I get to pursue my passion with the support of my parents, but I was given full scholarship. The only negatives were my living situations. Living near school is way out of my price zone because of the area. It forced me to live further and deal with commuting. Without a car.
Busing to the LAX area from places like Gardena or Hawthorne would take me 2 hours or more. And time is the most important thing to a student who is constantly meeting project deadlines and never sleeps. I couldn’t afford a car so I had to do what I had to do. A car also means insurance, gas, and maintenance fees. It was out of the question for me and my family.
But if I had $1000 I could get myself a scooter. A childhood dream I always had. And a dream I have now to be able to commute on my own time and by my own choice. It would open up my schedule and allow me to further my focus as a student. It would allow me to go to school, get home, shop for materials, buy groceries, visit museums, go on field trips, etc. without having to depend on the bus while carrying materials, projects, and homework. Oh what a dream! And it’s so exciting to see an opportunity such as this one. Crossing my fingers!
October 2, 2014 at 11:45 am
I would finally buy myself a good mattress! We spend so much time sleeping, and sleep is so important for your health, that I would get rid of my so-so, hand-me-down mattress and splurge on a wonderful, comfortable, toxin-free, new one. And I would get fantastic sheets, while I’m at it. Why not, I deserve it
October 2, 2014 at 11:45 am
With $1000, I would buy a roundtrip plane ticket to Madrid to visit my best friend who just moved there!!
October 2, 2014 at 11:46 am
I’d love to add $1000 to my upcoming car down-payment…road trip!
Katie says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:46 am
My dream giveaway would be a trip to visit my husband and a fun date night together. He is on the other side of the country training in the U.S. Navy, and we have been apart (and will be apart) for quite some time (at least a year by the time he finishes). Since things are financially tight for us, we don’t get to see each other very much at all. I would love to be able to visit him sometime and have a fun date night, but honestly anything would be fun as long as we were together. Thanks for doing such great giveaways!
Kelly D says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:47 am
I would love to take a trip home to Alaska in the summertime. I haven’t been back in over two years because it’s way too expensive for me to purchase a ticket right now. I want to go back next summer for a camping, hiking, fishing excursion and to see my mom and all of my friends.
Anonymous says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:49 am
We’re hoping to sell our house in the spring, so I would spend it on all of those non glamorous things like grout cleaning & reprainting. Thanks!!
Laura says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:49 am
I would have a live band at my upcoming wedding. It’s always been a dream of mine, but is a bit out of the budget.
October 2, 2014 at 11:49 am
My answer is little boring, but I would love to put it toward my student loans. Once those suckers are paid off, I’m off to get my MBA! Taking over the world, one biz idea at a time. <3 Thanks for the opportunity!
October 2, 2014 at 11:50 am
Bubbly and sweet—refreshing. Sounds like a vacation to me! I would LOVE to win a vacation anywhere, but hopefully someplace warm (South America?). Where you’d sit on the beach and sip your drink. I live in cold, cold Minnesota, so sun in the winter is like an old, beautiful dream you once had. It becomes hard to even remember what it feels like. Money is short, so I don’t get to do much of any traveling. I even have the vacation time at my job–just not the funds to go. It’d be wonderful!
October 2, 2014 at 11:50 am
I would love to help fly in some girlfriends from college for my birthday at the end of October and have a fabulous night out with them!
October 2, 2014 at 11:50 am
I just moved out on my own and I have no furniture! With a grand I would love to get a beautiful, comfy couch. Something feminine and functional that would be the center of my living room for years to come!
Jessie says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:51 am
A roundtrip ticket to Taiwan either in the spring or the fall (that’s when tickets are the cheapest and the weather is cooler)! My cousin, who’s basically a sister to me, just got married and I wasn’t able to attend because of financial constrictions, so I would love a roundtrip ticket to go back and visit and have some post-wedding celebrations. Thanks for the giveaway!
Sarah says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:53 am
How exciting! How to choose! I think I would put the money into our house, we are putting in a wood stove and still need to buy the pipes and brick for it.
October 2, 2014 at 11:54 am
Ooooh this would be a dream right now! I would use the $1,000 toward by upcoming wedding in November <3 Thanks for this opportunity Bri & Diet Coke!
Mick says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:58 am
holy moley! with an extra $1,000, i’d love to revamp my wardrobe. i’m a designer living on a shoestring budget, and sometimes i wish the outside could match the awesomeness of the inside
Jill says:
October 2, 2014 at 11:58 am
I’d love to take my kids to Legoland. My 4yo is especially really into Legos, and he’d have SUCH fun. We’ve never been, and it would be a real treat. Thanks for the opportunity!
October 2, 2014 at 12:00 pm
I recently became a mom AND had to move away from my family. I’d use the money to buy tickets for me, my hubs, and baby to fly back to Seattle to visit family… and then I’d buy some new shoes, a purse I’ve been eyeing on Etsy, and fun, pretty clothes to fit my new mom body. It’s so fun to dream about this!
October 2, 2014 at 12:00 pm
I’d get a cross-country train ticket and ride it with my best friend. We’d get warm soup in Philadelphia and take pictures in Chicago. We’d steep in cups of Joe and blankets the whole way. We’d break for tacos in the Southwest and take a handstand picture in every station.
Lauren W. says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:01 pm
This. is. amazing. I actually have a Diet Coke right next to me as I’m typing this, so I’m fully prepared to share my ‘good life’ desire!
My partner just started a phd program. He’s such a rockstar and I’m already scheming up a great way to celebrate the completion of his first year. We really want to go to Spain for a week or so this coming summer. My ‘good life’ involves lots of tapas, sangria, cobblestone streets and siestas! I’d use the money on plane tickets to take my planning from fantasy to reality
Kate says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:02 pm
I would get a Bugaboo stroller. I am expecting my first child in January.
October 2, 2014 at 12:02 pm
My dad raised my brother and I alone; gave us everything we needed and neglected his needs/wants. I would love to give back to him something special he would enjoy, like 3 tickets to a Denver Broncos game. He has always wanted to go but could not afford it.
October 2, 2014 at 12:03 pm
I would love 2 tickets to London. Its been a year without any vacations for me & my husband and London sounds just perfect right now!
Donna says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:04 pm
buying a clunky old Volvo and driving from Ontario to California with my bf.
October 2, 2014 at 12:05 pm
I would spend $1,000 on CHC: Chelli Harms Collection bags. The creative director/owner is one of the strongest women I know, and her bags are impeccable. Ten percent also goes to WINGS, a Chicago organization that helps women who have survived domestic violence; CHC shares its very personal reasons on the website. As a college student who has benefitted so much from CHC’s leadership, I would love to support the brand AND look phenomenal as an up and coming professional!
October 2, 2014 at 12:07 pm
I would save that $1000 dollars so that when we move next year we can live in a place that has a dishwasher and a washing machine. Hopefully we can buy the place but I’d settle for a rental where I’m not spending hours of my week on dishes and walking to the laundry instead of spending it with my family!
October 2, 2014 at 12:07 pm
I would love a plane ticket abroad. Nothing broadens my perspective or makes me appreciate my time here more than a trip to see what someone else’s “normal” looks like
Stacey says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:08 pm
I would use the giveaway to take the opportunity to travel and see my best friend who lives out west. I’ve been dying to get away from here and would love to share a diet coke with my bestie who right now is probably fighting fires in Oregon.
October 2, 2014 at 12:12 pm
If I won I would use the money to to support my husband who is a budding filmmaker. I would put the money towards a new camera or a cool independent film class. My husband is awesome and supports me and my dreams and I would love an opportunity to do something nice for him.
October 2, 2014 at 12:12 pm
I would use $1000 to travel, anywhere and everywhere that I could. South America? Maybe. Africa? Ugh drooling. South East Asia, please. India, ooooh be still my heart.
Sarah says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:12 pm
I would love to take my niece to London to experience something new!
October 2, 2014 at 12:13 pm
Two words: Chloe flats.. and, more importantly, a ticket home to surprise my Mom for her birthday this winter
October 2, 2014 at 12:15 pm
My mom is my best friend but she lives where I grew up in Alabama and I live in Los Angeles. 2,000 miles and expensive plane tickets keep us apart and getting to see her once a year (if I’m lucky) just isn’t enough. I would love to get to travel somewhere with her we’ve never been before to make new memories while I’m still young enough to not have many responsibilities and she’s still young enough to have adventures with me. Plus I would need a couple bucks left over for a Diet Coke each day (I don’t drink coffee but I still need caffeine!).
October 2, 2014 at 12:19 pm
If I had $1000 to spend on anything I wanted I would finally buy the Mansur Gavriel bag I’ve been droolling over for months now and then use the rest of the money to upgrade my studio so I can expand my skill and business!!
catina says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:19 pm
Wow! How wonderful! I am currently trying to get a job in Chicago! I want to live the city life before its too late in my life to do so. I would use the money to move into a new apartment, move, the whole shaBANG!
Mandi C says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:20 pm
What the WHAT?! How do you even start with that kinda incentive! While there are so many fabulous things I’d love, the peace of mind of taking down some debt would be without compare.
Shayla says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:21 pm
My husband is a really hard worker and the most generous person I know. He chose to leave a fantastic job and great situation in Colorado so that we could assist his parents with their house that’s come to be in serious disrepair. He ended up in a job that seemed like a blessing, but ended up causing him extreme stress and moral frustration due to unsavory business practices. He fortunately was approached by a smaller company with a family feel to run his own department after a few months. When he told his old company that he found a new position, he was told to get out immediately, leaving him without work for 3 weeks until he starts at his new job. We just moved into a new apartment and have very little saved up, so while we were hoping to take a long weekend vacation between jobs (since my husband hasn’t had a vacation in over 3 years), we’ve had to cancel. If I had $1000 I would love more than anything to treat him to a weekend getaway (and maybe pay a couple of bills). I’d take him to NY and see a show on Broadway, something he’s never done. He takes such wonderful care of his family, I would really love to give him a carefree couple of days where he doesn’t have to worry about anyone else but himself.
Annie says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:21 pm
Without question, I would choose a week stay at the Ace Hotel Palm Springs. I love that place to pieces, but have only stayed for work-related reasons. It would be incredible to be able to go on a (kid-free) vacay and just relax with my husband.
October 2, 2014 at 12:22 pm
My brother is getting married next July in Austria, so I would use the $1000 (and the rest of my savings) to travel to some other places like, England, France, Italy. I would love to go back to Paris !!!
October 2, 2014 at 12:23 pm
i recently went through a hard time and feel like i need a bit of a getaway. i would probably say a trip to paris (sans hotel, because i like airbnb) with my boyfriend for a little romance and a little wine / coffee / food. xo
Michelle says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:26 pm
I would pay to have some drought resistant landscaping done at my house. The water situation is getting pretty dire in California and I would love to get rid of the $$ draining sod on my property. This would go a long way towards helping us become more water efficient and making our house look oh so much prettier without the dying grass
October 2, 2014 at 12:27 pm
I would pay off a bill or two! It would taste as great as a diet coke!
Kai Chan says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:30 pm
While $1,000 won’t help me get a job, it’ll be great to have a seed money so I can start my own business I’ve been wanting to do for years. The supplies, process and setting up takes money and it’ll be nice get faster start on it.
Allison says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:31 pm
My favorite purse is wearing at the seams, but I have had so many needs pop up that I haven’t been able to purchase a new bag. I would LOVE to splurge on something new to carry for fall!!
Maya says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:32 pm
While travel and other more ambitious activities come to mind, a new bed would REALLY make me feel like I was living the good life, every single day (and night).
Gina Hicks says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:32 pm
If I won $1000, I would buy a new sofa. My puppy dog (who is much better behaved now) has chewed the legs and eaten the skirt off of my current one. It was a thrift store score, but nonetheless, my family of 5 has been a bit embarrassed to have friends over because it looks so unsightly. I could probably shop wisely, and still have enough money for a case of Diet Coke!
Anonymous says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:32 pm
I would buy my dream Fall wardrobe. I’ve only been eyeing the Rachel Comey Mars boot for the last 3 years- so they would definitely be involved!
Nancy says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:34 pm
My husband and I have been married for 3 years but we haven’t had the chance to go on a honeymoon yet, so it’d be nice to have a getaway to Hawaii since I’ve never been and would love to be somewhere tropical and swim in water that I can float without even trying, so I’ve been told.
October 2, 2014 at 12:35 pm
I would take the $1000 buck a roos and take a road trip out West with my husb! We could rent a car, stay in the best cheap o / kitschy places along the way and have an adventure! Both of us are creatives and have talked about making the trek and how inspiring it would be for both of us! I would love to make a collaborative story out of it to publish online, I’m a film photographer with a focus on Polaroids so I would shoot away and Christopher could write a song that goes along with a series of images and we could publish our work online. Something to share and to remember forever!
October 2, 2014 at 12:37 pm
Plane tickets for me and my husband to somewhere pretty this fall.
October 2, 2014 at 12:38 pm
$1000? I would blow it ALL in the Marimekko store. Nothing makes me smile more than their bright prints!
chelsey says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:39 pm
i would buy the Preston Flap bag from Fossil and also a new side table from West Elm!
October 2, 2014 at 12:44 pm
Ooooo, so many things but I think a honeymoon to Turks & Caicos is Absolutley what my husband and I need & deserve after commuting between London & NYC for the last 18 months to be with each other, yes pleaseeee
Arbine says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:47 pm
Since airfare from Hawaii to anywhere is pretty crazy, I would use the $1000 to help pay for airfare to the continental U.S. and take my family of four on a road trip across the country.
October 2, 2014 at 12:48 pm
I would totally use $1000 prize to re-do our bedroom prior to my upcoming surgery which will put me on bed rest for 3 months. I’m thinking new bedding, art & maybe some new curtains & perhaps a coat of paint too. A bedroom oasis! Thanks for the opportunity! xoxo
Rebecca says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:50 pm
I would commission a painting of billowing clouds and a blue sky in the style of John Singer Sargent or a Dutch Master from the reformed art forger Mark Landis!
October 2, 2014 at 12:51 pm
I would do an affordable and chic makeover in one of the small rooms in my house and turn it into a beautiful and bright closet/makeup room. Oh yesssssss.
Aimee says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:52 pm
I would create a whole new look to my bedroom… As a recent college graduate, I’m a long way away from moving out of my parents house. Since my bedroom is the only thing I’ve got, I would love to have my decor reflect my personal style. So I would take that money and create my own little abode that reflects everything I need and enjoy. Crossing my fingers super hard!
October 2, 2014 at 12:52 pm
I’m heading to Oz for a solo adventure over the holidays and would love to spend Christmas scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef. If not with family for the holidays, why not spend it with the fish! I’m not yet certified, so I need to do a training session and would love to use this money towards a spectacular Christmas under the sea. Perhaps I could also get a waterproof camera for under water selfies. I could DIY some water resistant Rudolph antlers to wear in my deep sea photo booth.
Laurie says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:55 pm
My boyfriend and I just bought tickets to visit Europe for the first time! We are so excited but the cost of the trip is weighing on us as well. 1000 extra dollars would relieve so much of the stress and allow us to completely enjoy our time over there! We might even be able to splurge on a gorgeous hotel for a night or two!!
Amy says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:56 pm
There are so many things I dream about doing and places I dream about going on a daily basis! Traveling is always going to be number 1 on my list of things to spend money on. I would put $1000 toward flights from Chicago to San Jose for my husband and I to visit our friends and their son who recently moved out there. Then we’d all take a road trip to Big Sur and stay in a cozy house, hang out, drink wine and take in all the beauty of the area!
Yael Nov says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:56 pm
With $1000 I would love to fly to New York to spend a few days seeing every museum and gallery show. As an MFA student working on my thesis, it would be priceless to see such amazing exhibitions in person to feel inspired and motivated for my own art-making.
Kate McPike says:
October 2, 2014 at 12:57 pm
Oh man, I would take my bf on a much needed vacation road trip with the pups! Reunited after his Air Force Officer training, a little get away would be lovely!
October 2, 2014 at 12:58 pm
I would use the $1000 to plan a holiday for my parents. They have not been on a holiday, just the two of them in forever. Their 35th wedding anniversary is coming up and I think a relaxing holiday would be perfect for them.
October 2, 2014 at 12:59 pm
I would use the 1k as seed money for my own startup. I have been working on amassing a collection of illustrations and surface pattern designs part time for the last year and a half. I have followed this and a handful of other design blogs since 2007, watching amazing women take hold of their lives, their dreams. I would like to dance down that path too and I’m so ready! Would love a little dough to help pull this dream into the light, get some biz cards and website up
Alyssa DeHayes says:
October 2, 2014 at 1:01 pm
I’d take my mom to the beach for a girls weekend! She never has a chance to get away, and spent so much time working this summer that it’s been over a year since I was in a swimsuit last. All we ask for is the nearest beach, a mountain of oysters, and a few cold bottles of rose’!
chow says:
October 2, 2014 at 1:03 pm
I would buy a plane ticket to go see my three best friends that I haven’t seen in three years.
October 2, 2014 at 1:05 pm
October 2, 2014 at 1:06 pm
I would love to treat my mom and sister to a girl’s weekend, complete with spa treatments, a good dinner, lots of wine and catching up!
Amanda says:
October 2, 2014 at 1:06 pm
i would buy a new canon lens and take another class so I can finally start my photography business
October 2, 2014 at 1:09 pm
I want to travel and see some of the world,that I haven’t seen. Feel free!
October 2, 2014 at 1:10 pm
as UN-fun as it sounds, an insulin pump. i was diagnosed with type-1 diabetes 2 years ago [at the ripe age of 28] + have been saving up my pennies for one, while trying to get a graphic design business off the ground. [+ also thus, have become a diet coke addict in the process.]
or maybe i would get the crazy idea to take my mother on a trip somewhere fab! a total once in a lifetime sort of thing
October 2, 2014 at 1:13 pm
I would rent a cozy little airbnb for a long weekend, and spend the weekend cooking delicious meals and mixing fun cocktails for a few close friends.
October 2, 2014 at 1:16 pm
That’s just shy of one month’s rent for me. If I could use it towards that and actually have a cushion for once?! I may actually sleep through the night
October 2, 2014 at 1:16 pm
I would take the $1000 put it towards our deposit on an apartment in Seattle. My husband and I are dying to get out of Montana and to the big Emerald city we love so much. Growing up in Montana has been lovely but we can always come back. Also it does help that the graphic design and physics teaching jobs are abound. Hello Seattle!…eventually.
October 2, 2014 at 1:18 pm
If I won, I would buy $1000 worth of painting supplies! I always wanted a wooden easel!
October 2, 2014 at 1:19 pm
If I won, I would buy a $1000 worth of painting supplies. I’ve always wanted a wooden easel!
October 2, 2014 at 1:21 pm
as a huge fan of diet coke, i love this! it’s hard to pick but i would put the money towards a new mattress. i am in desperate need of one and would love to sleep luxuriously every night. it’s not a very glamorous pick but it would definitely be appreciated!
October 2, 2014 at 1:23 pm
I would use the $1000 towards cultivating my craft! As an actress here in New York, it’s often very difficult to keep up with all of the dance, acting, and voice classes that one needs to take to stay viable in this industry. $1000 would go a long way in helping me pursue my career.
Kayla says:
October 2, 2014 at 1:28 pm
I would have to spend the money on travel for sure. It would to to flying my bridesmaids to Seattle next March for a weekend of dress shopping, eating, drinking, dancing, and whatever fabulous activities we’d get up to.
Andrew LaSane says:
October 2, 2014 at 1:30 pm
My sister and I want to take our mom on her first cruise to the Bahamas for her 50th birthday!
October 2, 2014 at 1:30 pm
I live in NYC in a small studio. I moved here about a year and a half ago from Atlanta for work. I would use the money to buy some nice things for my apartment, like a new rug or bed to make it feel more like home. It always takes a while for a new place to feel homey, but furnishings definitely help!
Mae says:
October 2, 2014 at 1:30 pm
I would definitely want to get $1000 of Diet Coke. Just kidding. Sort of. (not really kidding at all)
But as something more serious, I would probably use it to take a trip to Scotland with my significant other. He is fully planning on wearing a kilt (???) when we celebrate a certain significant life event next year to honor our respective Scottish heritages, and I’d love to be able to travel with him (he flies for free, the scoundrel) when he makes the trip to purchase it.
Liz says:
October 2, 2014 at 1:30 pm
I would use the $1000 towards new flooring in my dining/living rooms and kitchen. We currently have gross carpet and linoleum and we’ve been trying to save up for hardwood or wood-look flooring for almost a year! It would totally transform our house!
Aly says:
October 2, 2014 at 1:31 pm
If I were to win this contest, I would love a gift card to Nordstrom! I’d like to treat myself and my husband to some high-end staples. After that I’d love to buy something nice for our parents and siblings for always being so supportive of us. Thanks for having a great giveaway!
Jamie says:
October 2, 2014 at 1:32 pm
What a fun and inspiring campaign! LOVE what Diet Coke is dreaming up. Hmm $1K what to do… as smart as it would be to pay off debt, upgrade some furniture, or even invest it in a IRA… I think I would do like you did. Gather my best girlfriends together– besties since high school but now all scattered over the US, NY, CA, and DC and plan a girls weekend pampering, sipping champagne, catching up all night, being goofy and just enjoying ourselves! Because life gets crazy, the bills never stop, and we are always on run. But hanging with your girls and just enjoying the moment is what life is all about, right?
Hiley says:
October 2, 2014 at 1:34 pm
Right now, it would be really nice not to have to worry where my next two months of rent was coming from. $1000 would be like my saving grace!!! Working full time as an English teacher for non-native speakers, and also going to school full-time for my Master’s Degree is very stressful and exhausting.
Doris Schooling says:
October 2, 2014 at 1:35 pm
Whew… anything?! Well, I’ve got a dream list galore, but I would love to buy myself a dishwasher and save my fingers from pruning every night!
October 2, 2014 at 1:36 pm
I would use the $1000 for a plane ticket somewhere out of the country that I’ve never been to! And probably spend some on a really delicious, well-crafted meal
danielle @ this picture book life says:
October 2, 2014 at 1:37 pm
Easy. $1,000 would be plenty to buy a true library of picture books for my own home and a bunch to give away to kids as well! Yeah, that’d make me jump up and down.
October 2, 2014 at 1:37 pm
It’s not exactly sexy, but I would use $1000 right now to pay a web developer to help me make my dream website.
October 2, 2014 at 1:40 pm
I would use it to buy a plane ticket to visit my child waiting in the orphanage in India before they’re officially adopted by us
October 2, 2014 at 1:43 pm
A plane ticket home because I miss my mom then a road trip to Cali because I miss my friends! Or…. I’ve been trying to save up for a new tattoo
October 2, 2014 at 1:43 pm
I would use the money to a really nice camera! I have two boys, three and 9 months old and they are my world! I love photographing them and my husband loves getting photo updates from us while he is away at work.
October 2, 2014 at 1:43 pm
It would cover one plane fare for the trip to Iceland that my husband and I are planning next spring
Ming says:
October 2, 2014 at 1:44 pm
I would probably use that money to buy a new couch for my parent’s house. They’ve had the same one since I was a kid and had originally gotten it from my aunt. Definitely due for an upgrade and my parents will never spend the money to get a new one.
October 2, 2014 at 1:45 pm
I would finally get to buy shelves for my garage! Boxes upon boxes of shoes, camping gear, costumes…you name it…that all came crashing down after the earthquake we just had
Zoe says:
October 2, 2014 at 1:45 pm
I would take some cooking classes and buy some new pots and pans! It’s the little things….
October 2, 2014 at 1:48 pm
Two round-trip tickets to Costa Rica, where my sweetie and I are trying to plan a vacation in 2015!!
October 2, 2014 at 1:56 pm
I would spend the $1000 on advertising for my business!
October 2, 2014 at 2:01 pm
The $1000 is the amount left that I have to save up to go on a medical mission trip to Brazil in August 2015, so with the money I would put it towards making that dream come true! I’m a premed student who wants to specialize in pediatrics with a global health emphasis, but I have been unable to partake in medical missions abroad because of finances. The trip would be a week of cultural integration and working with Brazilian physicians and patients. Since I am paying off student loans, need to pay for my mcat and the application fees for medical school , the little money from my income disappears. The 1000 would be an amazing gift that would allow me to help others!!!
October 2, 2014 at 2:06 pm
A couple of the Projecteo (mini instagram projectors) – one for myself and the others to give as gifts, a few pairs of Frye boots, Swedish clogs, toms sandals, a cast iron dutch oven, some alpaca yarn and nice wooden knitting needles, a serger, a nice digital camera to capture all the memories…
October 2, 2014 at 2:06 pm
A plane ticket to either the Netherlands or Australia…it would be difficult to choose though! That or maybe a new and beautiful pink couch…
Kate says:
October 2, 2014 at 2:06 pm
If I were to win $1000, I’d want to take my boyfriend on a trip to New York for his first time and show him all the amazing sights. Including a hip hotel and a Broadway show!!
October 2, 2014 at 2:06 pm
I would take my mom on a well deserved vacation. Anywhere.
Sarah says:
October 2, 2014 at 2:06 pm
Diet Coke is so light, bubbly and refreshing- as inspiration, I would use the $1,000 prize to fly myself and my fiancee to NYC. While wandering the city, we could take in the sights and sounds! It would be a great vacation (and possible elopement!) for us.
October 2, 2014 at 2:10 pm
I if won, my boyfriend and I would get married! We just want to elope (go the courthouse and take an awesome honeymoon) but between work stress, student loans, and renting in the city, we haven’t been able to make it happen. We’re celebrating our 5 year anniversary this month though, so it’s about time!
Alena says:
October 2, 2014 at 2:12 pm
Shopping spree at Acne Studios! I have been dreaming of their boots for so long now. I always walk around the store hoping one day to splurge on something.
October 2, 2014 at 2:13 pm
I’m an Art Director living in Miami, FL and I just got laid off last Friday. If I could put $1,000 toward a new macbook that would make my world as great as a diet coke tastes!
Makia Sharp says:
October 2, 2014 at 2:14 pm
I would use the $1000 to fly to London, my favorite city in the world!
October 2, 2014 at 2:15 pm
My mom has fibromyalgia but still works as a 2nd grade teacher to help put me and my sister through school. I would treat her to a spa vacation!
October 2, 2014 at 2:16 pm
I would give the prize to my older brother who is taking care of my mom (in Thailand) right now while I am working hard in the U.S. I want him to take a good care of our mom- treat her with a great dinner, take her to the salon, buy her new clothes, shoes, new make-up, make her beautiful as she used to be.. We love you mom :+
October 2, 2014 at 2:16 pm
This is an incredible opportunity and blessing. It’s so cool to see what everyone dreams about doing. What sweethearts you guys are. Ok, if I were so lucky, I would buy my sweet little nephews bunk beds. I live far away from them and I would just love to surprise my sister, who is trying to save now for them, with this gift! Just the idea of being able to do that is pretty cool man. Thanks ladies <3
Lanet Hane says:
October 2, 2014 at 2:21 pm
If I had $1000 to spend to “get a taste” of living life more fully, I would force my sister–who never takes time off–onto a plane and to an all-inclusive resort somewhere south where we can both lay in the sun and appreciate some time relaxing by the pool or ocean with drinks in our hands. Costa Rica, Hawaii, Mexico, Florida, these are all great possibilities!
October 2, 2014 at 2:24 pm
I would love to use this $1000 towards a plane ticket to come home for Thanksgiving this year. I’m working on my master’s degree in France and it’s been over a year since I have seen my family and more than two years since the last time we were all together for Thanksgiving. I think a nice week in sweaters and drinking apple cider with my mom would be the perfect use of the $1000!
Kaitlyn Bitner says:
October 2, 2014 at 2:25 pm
It’s very cliche but a ticket to Paris! I met the love of my life and want to share how magical Paris is with him!
October 2, 2014 at 2:28 pm
My fiancé and I have been planning a trip to Mexico for a couple months but haven’t taken the plunge to buy tickets quite yet as some unexpected expenses came up. I would absolutely use $1000 to buy our plane tickets (or at least one!) so we could go exploring in Oaxaca and Mexico City!
October 2, 2014 at 2:29 pm
I’d use $1000 to buy a new printer and Photoshop. I’ve recently been dabbling with the idea of getting my art on cards– or any prints for that matter. I would love the software to edit them digitally and the ability to print stellar quality prints from my own awesome printer. I’ll buy a pack of Diet Coke while i’m at it too.
Miri says:
October 2, 2014 at 2:33 pm
One of my closest friends, who is struggling financially, just had to move into a studio apartment that is so tiny she is going to have to choose between her bed and her couch. The money would go a long way to helping her make her “room” her special space. A gift certificate to Ikea, the container store, west elm or combination of all 3 would send her over the moon!
October 2, 2014 at 2:36 pm
I would buy my husband a Surface 2; he has had a dumpy lug-around giant PC laptop the whole time we’ve been married. It’s definitely on it’s last leg but he is too proud to buy one now with all of our extra finances going towards his graduate school loans. He is just the bees knees and my best friend! He works graveyards all week and then goes straight to school. We never see eachother and he is such a deserving hard worker. I adore diet coke and of course they would be behind such a lovely giveaway. Everyone’s answers are so great—anyone would be lucky to win.
Gia says:
October 2, 2014 at 2:37 pm
I think two tickets for my bf and me to travel! Not sure where yet!
Karen says:
October 2, 2014 at 2:38 pm
I’m a single mom of two boys and am trying to be a bit more handy around the house. Specifically, I’ve been trying to fix up out laundry room that has peeling wallpaper, an old pendant light, and is half painted! If I won, I would love a new pendant light and some new wallpaper for this poor room that is much used but such an eyesore!
I have my eye on some amazing combos, but just don’t have the budget!
I would be over the moon with a Diet Coke DIY laundry room update!
October 2, 2014 at 2:42 pm
I am currently pregnant with identical twin girls! I just found out that my 3 day stay in the hospital after the girls are born, will be $1,500!! With the $1,000, I would pay for my hospital stay. I know this may not sound as fun as a plane ticket or a new purse, but giving birth to these beautiful babes would be the greatest adventure that one can have!!
October 2, 2014 at 2:44 pm
I’d love to win this to give my workspace a makeover. I would love to get some new chairs, a sturdier work desk, and take your amazing online blogshop class!
October 2, 2014 at 2:49 pm
I’ve been craving a bedroom makeover! That’s attainable for $1000, right?
Elizabeth says:
October 2, 2014 at 2:49 pm
I would take a trip to Mohonk Mountain House for the weekend. As kids, we would go there with my grandparents, but haven’t been in so many years. It would be magical to be able to take my mom back up there!
marty says:
October 2, 2014 at 2:52 pm
Wool robes like this Pendleton for me and my husband, and a weekend getaway to The Wallowas or Orcas Island. For my 6 year old, a fun overnight at a downtown Portland hotel with Grandma or one of her aunties!
October 2, 2014 at 2:54 pm
I’d book a trip to NYC ASAP & finally stay somewhere cool (like the Wythe Hotel!) instead of always budgeting & ending up by the airport. And I’d splurge on good food & drinks the rest of the trip until I was out of money (and buzzed and fat & ridiculous happy!)
Katie says:
October 2, 2014 at 2:54 pm
I would use the money to have a fantastic weekend getaway with my husband – maybe a B&B in CA wine country, some nice meals, some shopping. With 3 sweet boys 3 and under, a weekend to splurge and relax together would definitely be a delicious treat added to our already good life.
akiko says:
October 2, 2014 at 2:54 pm
I’d love to have a desktop mac computer! Macbook is great but I’d love to have bigger screen for work (all day in front of them..)!
October 2, 2014 at 2:57 pm
I would finally leave the job that completely dulls my senses and breaks my creativity and finally move to the Pacific Northwest. $1000 would be enough to get myself up there and in the fresh mountain air. There’s nothing in the world I can think of that would make me happier.
Kayla says:
October 2, 2014 at 2:58 pm
My girly daughter is turning 3 in January so $1000 would make an unforgettable trip to Disney! Princess makeover and all!!! That would be like a best mom ever moment!
Katy P. says:
October 2, 2014 at 2:58 pm
The one thing that you could give me that would make my world as good as the taste of diet coke would be a membership to a yoga studio for the next 4-5 months. Yoga calms my mind, body and soul — needless to say it has a positive affect on all areas of my life. It would be sweet if I could afford to go for a few months.
October 2, 2014 at 2:58 pm
a trip to NYC with my two best friends who have seen me through an incredibly difficult year. Trips to museums, eating out, seeing a show, and shopping. A total girls weekend.
October 2, 2014 at 2:58 pm
I would use the money to get back into school I’m so close to graduating. I owed $5300 and pretty much was told I could not continue until I paid off my balance so I have managed to pay off $2000 so far by saving and working hard, so another $1000 would be great to put towards my debt. I know it’s not towards a fancy dream vacation but the thought of finishing school so I can get a better job and actually have a job that I can enjoy wiould be a dream come true.
October 2, 2014 at 3:00 pm
I would use it to loot fly my dear sister & I (she has MS ) to LA!!! We would go to the Ellen show, stay in a fancy hotel & have sista time!! Sippin on diet coke, of course!!! People watchin,, hittin some fan~cy thrift, feelin all fancy like that! Anyone that knows me knows I’m a diehard DC (diet coke fan!!!!
October 2, 2014 at 3:00 pm
Well if I won.. I would like to buy two tickets to Virginia for me and my mother because she do all for me and I’m so grateful with her despite my dad left us with nothing she took courage for me and my sister…
And now it’s time for her to take a break and what is better than visit her sister in VA also with some money to spend for herself..?
October 2, 2014 at 3:01 pm
**typical me made a typo
I meant to say, I would use “the” loot to fly my dear sister and I !!!
October 2, 2014 at 3:04 pm
I’d use the money to help my little sister go on a trip to Spain next summer. She was supposed to go this summer, but we couldn’t do it financially. I’ve had the opportunity to travel and would love for her to have the same opportunity
October 2, 2014 at 3:07 pm
I would buy this bad boy: http://www.westelm.com/products/dumont-buffet-g441/?cm_src=SEARCH_TOPPRODUCT||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_-Featured%20Consoles from West Elm that I have been oogling over for a year. I moved into my new place in LA with no closet, so I have been sorting all of my clothes out of plastic bins. I don’t want to do it anymore! lol
Lindsay says:
October 2, 2014 at 3:09 pm
I would purchase a Mansur Gavriel bucket bag that I’ve been lusting for over a year. I’ve check out various other bucket bags, and I don’t think that anything would quite satisfy my thirst for style and clean lines like Mansur Gavriel, much like diet coke satisfy’s my thirst for a tasty, delicious, calorie-free beverage.
October 2, 2014 at 3:11 pm
After 3 grueling years living in NYC, what would make my world as great as Diet Coke? I’d say a weekend get-a-way with my husband and I (WITHOUT the baby, for petes sake!) would be a dream come true. (With a few extra bucks to spend on new clothes, of course).
October 2, 2014 at 3:12 pm
That’s tough! I honestly would spend it on equipment to start up my business
Maria says:
October 2, 2014 at 3:15 pm
Omg I would die for a new mattress. Ours is literally falling apart and we wake up every day with back issues. That would be a dream come true to be able to finally get a nice mattress.
October 2, 2014 at 3:15 pm
I would use $1000 to freshen up my wardrobe! In desperate need of some new pieces!
October 2, 2014 at 3:15 pm
This is a really difficult decision! Ultimately I think the best use of $1000 would be to go towards my honeymoon. I am getting married in May and as of right now it doesn’t look like there’s going to be any money left over after the wedding costs to go on a honeymoon. We will have to save up and just go when we can. A $1000 head start would be amazing. I’m thinking somewhere a little out of the norm like Iceland or Italy or New Zealand!
October 2, 2014 at 3:18 pm
I would surprise my husband with new tires before winter comes. So we’re not slip and sliding all over the place since his tires are almost tissue paper now.
October 2, 2014 at 3:24 pm
Well this is a hard one haha, i would use those 1000 for launching my small jewelry brand!!! yet that would be!
riley says:
October 2, 2014 at 3:26 pm
$1,000 would be used to finance a trip back to Europe. I studied abroad in Italy over the summer and I haven’t stopped thinking about traveling since. A couple places I would love to explore are Montenegro, Ibiza, and Santorini! xx
Erica says:
October 2, 2014 at 3:27 pm
My fiance just moved us from LA to Idaho, in the middle of wedding planning and my car dying on me. I would use this $1000 for a trip up here in the Pacific Northwest and explore our new state of Idaho with my fiance as a breath of fresh air between the craziness life has brought us! It would be amazing – not to mention I’ve always been a Coca Cola lady over that Pepsi stuff <3
Samara says:
October 2, 2014 at 3:27 pm
It may sound lame, but I dream about paying off my student loans! Making an $1000 student loan payment might not be as exciting as buying designer furniture or an Airbnb vacation. But it will help give me the financial freedom I dream about and move me one baby step closer to being able to spend money on fun things.
October 2, 2014 at 3:32 pm
I would love to get a brand new blendtec blender and a kitchenaid mixer. Because of the higher prices associated with these fabulous appliances, we just never seem to have enough just laying around, to indulge on these two items. I’ve been pining away for these two appliances and have probably entered every giveaway associated with them, but to no avail. Winning this giveaway would be such a treat!
Olivia P says:
October 2, 2014 at 3:33 pm
What would make my world as great as Diet Coke? I’d have to say getting engaged (FINALLY) to my boyfriend of 7 years. I mean seriously, it’s like waiting for a Christmas morning that never comes! Right now the only thing that’s holding us back is silly adult stuff like debt and money, so the $1000 would help us move towards what I’ve been dreaming of – waking up next to my soul mate every morning.
October 2, 2014 at 3:39 pm
This is amazing! I would totally furnish my apartment. Having a beautiful space to create in would be a dream come true.
October 2, 2014 at 3:39 pm
I would love to furnish a small home office so I have a space to work on passion projects at home!
October 2, 2014 at 3:40 pm
My sister’s birthday is in October 10th. I just moved to NYC where I’m an undergraduate student but I’m from Dominican Republic. She helped me convince my parents to let me study abroad and It’s only fair to give it back to her with something that will make her smile. I would use the $1000 dollars to buy her a flight ticket to India. She dreams of going there!
October 2, 2014 at 3:41 pm
You can’t buy time. Especially when you wish you had more of it with the people you love. I live and work in Seattle and my entire family is in the heart of Ohio. Unfortunately, it’s not exactly pocket change to visit home. That $1000 means so much more than a dollar amount to me. It’s valuable bonding time and memories to forever hold onto with the people who made me who I am today. Just as good as the sound of a coke. As it should be.
October 2, 2014 at 3:43 pm
I would use the money to fund my trip to China, where I will be volunteering at a care center to teach and care for preschool-aged orphans with disabilities for a year. Not particularly glamorous or as fancy as some other things that come to mind, but the opportunity and ability to give back and positively affect the lives of others is a pretty awesome luxury in itself
October 2, 2014 at 3:45 pm
I would get a plane ticket to Hawaii…and I might not come back
Sarah says:
October 2, 2014 at 3:45 pm
I would inject some new life into my wardrobe and also purchase a few more home goods that I’ve had my eye on!
Taylor says:
October 2, 2014 at 3:49 pm
If I won 1000 Dollars I would travel to Vietnam to visit my friends and explore somewhere outside of the United States for the first time in my life!
October 2, 2014 at 3:50 pm
I’ve been dreaming for years about thru-hiking the 2,600 miles from Mexico to Canada on the Pacific Crest Trail! It takes about 4-6 months to hike. $1000 would go towards gear, travel expenses, and expenses like food on the trail. What an amazing opportunity!
Ellie says:
October 2, 2014 at 3:51 pm
Ooo this is a tough one!!!! I have been loving Gray Malin prints for close to 4 years and would love a giant one for my apartment. Either that or two tickets somewhere warm and relaxing to get away from the Boston winter with my boyfriend. Fingers crossed!
Lindsey says:
October 2, 2014 at 3:53 pm
My husband and I are celebrating our one year anniversary this coming Sunday, but our apartment still looks like we’re living the dorm life; this first year has been a rough one with losing jobs and barely making enough to live on, let alone updating our home. We have all these grandiose ideas for decorating, and our date nights have included window shopping and dreaming in front of Design Within Reach. I would die if I could hand my husband $1000 and say, we get to decorate!! That couch we wanted…that dining table…those Herman Miller chairs?! (well…$1000 would only get about 2.5 of those, haha). But making our house feel like a home would be worth so much more than those 4 digits.
October 2, 2014 at 3:56 pm
I would use the money to visit friends in Europe, and hit up a country I have never been to!
October 2, 2014 at 3:56 pm
I would buy a new wardrobe!
October 2, 2014 at 3:59 pm
My dream prize would be to surprise my husband with a trip to Tulum. One of our first trips away was together was to Mexico and then again for our honeymoon. We haven’t been back in 7 years and I think that’s too long! Thank you for the opportunity to win!
October 2, 2014 at 4:01 pm
Mansur Gavriel Pink backpack!!!! Just like the one you have. Not a pink girl, but ever since you posted on the instagram how you found Jen crying on your bed because she wanted to keep the bag but you would not give, I can’t get off of the PINK bag on my head. It is absolutely the prettiest PINK!
October 2, 2014 at 4:06 pm
I would take my husband on a vacation to Kauai during the meteor shower in August. I’ve always wanted to see the meteor shower somewhere remote like that.
October 2, 2014 at 4:08 pm
Plane ticket to Hawaii to hike on a volcano!
October 2, 2014 at 4:11 pm
My ultimate dream has been to travel to Brasil! I am so drawn by the culture and people. I would like to document my trip through pictures of not only landscapes but with people! From all different backgrounds and ages. I also want to go there to visit the favelas,they get such a bad rep that I want to document that it can be different. After that I woyld take a plane to colombia for the same reasons. PLEASE PICK ME!!!!!!
October 2, 2014 at 4:12 pm
I would get a some new fall clothes and a book bag. I have been working hard for 4 years trying to finish college and working to pay off my bills. So, I feel like I really deserve some nice things for myself for once!
Libby Erickson says:
October 2, 2014 at 4:12 pm
We recently bought a new house, and I have been pining after a few mid century furniture pieces at my favorite shop to furnish my new lovely home! It would make me faint if I could go and buy those pieces and style them to be my own!!!
Renae Vinzant says:
October 2, 2014 at 4:14 pm
I would love to have a shopping spree at either American Eagle or Forever 21.
Ashla says:
October 2, 2014 at 4:14 pm
I would either be responsible and pay off my credit card, or be irresponsible and go on a trip with my boyfriend!
Ellie says:
October 2, 2014 at 4:14 pm
I’m passionate about travel and experiencing different cultures. $1000 would go towards a plane ticket to a country I’ve yet to explore. One in particular would be my grandmother’s hometown in Poland.
October 2, 2014 at 4:19 pm
If I got this chance I would finally go with my husband to visit my two new nephews in California. One sweet boy was born in July and the sweet baby was born two weeks ago. Because my second nephew was adopted we got 2 hrs notice before his birth so we haven’t had the typical 9 months to save and plan. With a mortgage, medical bills and life in general it would be impossible without a gift like this. Thanks for the oportunity!
Leah says:
October 2, 2014 at 4:25 pm
I would buy a mountain bike. I recently took a mountain biking class and absolutely fell in love with the sport. There are very few women involved with the sport, and I’d love to be involved with the amazing mountain biking community in Minnesota, and get other women involved in it! Unfortunately, a mountain bike is a bit out of my recent college graduate price range.
Allison Ryan says:
October 2, 2014 at 4:26 pm
October 2, 2014 at 4:26 pm
My husband and I are traveling around the country next summer. It would be so fun to have money to add a couple hundred miles to the trip. The 1000$$$ would go towards gas money.
Casey says:
October 2, 2014 at 4:27 pm
I think if I got this opportunity I would spend it on a surprise shopping trip for my dad. He works so hard and is fighting cancer right now. He’s been saying he wants a couple new fall clothing items and I think this would be an amazing surprise!
Andria says:
October 2, 2014 at 4:27 pm
I would love to relive my honeymoon in Telluride, CO (and my hubby of course). Send me to a mountain oasis–sweet and cool as a refreshing Diet Coke!
October 2, 2014 at 4:27 pm
my best friend is getting married soon, and i would like to round up the girls to take them on a trip!
October 2, 2014 at 4:28 pm
So many ways to put this to good use! I think the wisest would be to invest in a good printer and Adobe subscription. As an illustrator, I haven’t been able to get my work out there because I lack the technology to do so. My husband and I would love to have the extra income so we can travel with our son, but until I have the right tools it’s hard for us to do much of anything. Winning would be a way to turn that $1000 into (hopefully) more $$$ to do more exciting things <3 DLF gives me so much inspiration and passion to create and travel. Fingers crossed!
Annie says:
October 2, 2014 at 4:28 pm
without a doubt, it would be travel. and since the weather is cooling off, perhaps somewhere south and warm…like cabo. yes, yes. cabo would be lovely. *wink*
October 2, 2014 at 4:29 pm
If I won this Diet Coke challenge, I would buy items for a new wardrobe for when I finally move to be with my boyfriend of 3 years to the UK. I would buy some really nice coats from Zara and some really good quality and timeless garments that will last me through the cold English weather. Thanks Diet Coke! Fingers crossed <3
hannah says:
October 2, 2014 at 4:30 pm
I am a photographer, and I’m dying to go to the Field Trip photography event next year! It cost $1000 haha and I can’t afford it! <3 It's in my favorite place on earth, Yosemite.
October 2, 2014 at 4:30 pm
I would love the money to spend on my study abroad trip to Italy next semester! Traveling on weekends isn’t free!
Jess says:
October 2, 2014 at 4:31 pm
I would buy a luxurious wool rug to place in my living room. Something cozy and good for lounging on.
October 2, 2014 at 4:32 pm
brand spankin new work out clothes! What better treat (and motivation to actually get to a yoga class) then Lululemon crops and bras?!? what a dream.
October 2, 2014 at 4:34 pm
Well I jump up and down about pretty much anything, but I think the one thing that would make me jump up and down the most-est would be if I could finally get Joshua Radin to write his lyrics “I Sat Beside You and Became Myself” so I can get it tattooed on my rib cage I would be OVER. THE. MOON. I’m pretty awful about buying things I can’t afford or splurging, but this is something that’s partially out of my control, since I can only ask on FB so many times before I feel like a complete creep. *haha
Sarah says:
October 2, 2014 at 4:43 pm
I would use the money to pay my rent for a month so I could take time off work to get away and do the traveling I’ve been dreaming about for years – without feeling guilty! That’s the dream!
Amanda says:
October 2, 2014 at 4:43 pm
I would buy a plane ticket to visit my grandparents. I’m so lucky they are still around but I need to spend more time with them. $1000 would really help me get from NYC to Little Rock and back.
Jillian Rose says:
October 2, 2014 at 4:45 pm
I’m 30 and I still don’t have a real bed or furniture in my bedroom. I’d love to splurge on fancy (non Ikea) bed frame and headboard with cute little nightstands. Instead of the my wire bed frame and old Target particle board nightstands that were leftover from college.
October 2, 2014 at 4:45 pm
I would buy 2 plane tickets, one for my husband and one for myself. we got married 2 weeks ago but can’t afford to take a honeymoon now so we plan on waiting until next year. if we won we’d finally get to take a vacation together (which we’ve never had the chance to do) !!!
October 2, 2014 at 4:52 pm
I know it’s kind of silly, but a shopping spree at Free People would make my life!
October 2, 2014 at 4:53 pm
Well, nothing is as good as the taste of Diet Coke, BUT if I won the $1000, I would definitely use it to fly to your next iheartblogshop! Besides meeting you and your team, I would LOVE to learn the in’s and out’s of Photoshop for my handmade retail website and spice up my Instagram and blog. As a full-time maker, I could really utilize tips and tricks to make my small business better and save time!
October 2, 2014 at 4:53 pm
I would L O V E to win this! My dream day would be a shopping spree at Free People. I am getting married in March and honeymooning in Big Sur and Palm Springs so a little honeymoon-outfit-shopping-spree would be a D R E A M.
Jenni says:
October 2, 2014 at 4:56 pm
I’m seeing a lot of plane ticket comments on here and I’m adding to that! My husband and I have been saving up for 2 years to go to Europe, but things keep setting us back and we still haven’t saved up quite enough to go. He’s a teacher and there was a teacher’s strike this year for 3 months, which meant loss of income for us. So my contest prize would have to be accommodation for two in Paris so we can finally get to see the city I have been waiting for years to see!
October 2, 2014 at 4:58 pm
Without a doubt, the one thing right now that would make my world as good as the taste of diet coke would be a spa day (or weekend!). My daughter was born 9 months ago. She is the most incredible thing that has ever happened to me, but seriously man – I’m exhausted. I work full time from home and my husband works for a band and is gone on the road half the year. I haven’t had a manicure since before she was born (or even more than 4 hours of straight sleep). I’m a train wreck. Buying things is fun, but to get to buy an experience that would allow me the luxury of finally relaxing would be amazing beyond words. Fingers crossed.
Rebecca says:
October 2, 2014 at 5:03 pm
I would probably buy a Mansur Gavriel bag! I love them so much. Plus a nice little shopping spree wouldn’t be too bad, after all the stress that comes from school and work. My fingers are C R O S S E D.
Heidi says:
October 2, 2014 at 5:08 pm
I’ve never been to NYC, so I would like to finally make it there! And while seeing the city, maybe invest in a nice new handbag!!
October 2, 2014 at 5:10 pm
I’d buy a plane ticket to Jordan and visit the city of Petra and sip tea in Amman! Bring out my inner Indiana Jones. Ooo and to ride an Arabian horse through the desert. DREAM. I’ve wanted to go for years now and I think it’s just about my time.
Amanda says:
October 2, 2014 at 5:17 pm
I would spend the $1000 on a couple tattoos that I’ve really wanted to get.
October 2, 2014 at 5:22 pm
I would definitely use it to take a trip with my boyfriend to Fiji! Our last vacation I was sick the entire time with the flu so a rain check for it would be an absolute dream! xo
October 2, 2014 at 5:22 pm
What an amazing opportunity! With $1000 extra dollars I’d invest in my little business and properly turn part of my home into a studio environment. Sufficient attractive storage would go a loooong way and creating a better space to shoot my work in would be priceless. If there was enough for a work table too? Sheesh, that would be pure gold.
October 2, 2014 at 5:22 pm
A week long stay in A fabulous Copenhagen hotel. My family is from Copenhagen and I have always wanted to go since I was a kid and I would love to take my husband with me!! We can do the plane tickets but the accommodations and some spending money would actually make this trip something that we could really do!
Beth says:
October 2, 2014 at 5:23 pm
I would by each of my three girls a pretty new dress, a new dishwasher for myself, and a day off for my husband to spend the day with us in a new place.
October 2, 2014 at 5:24 pm
I would spend that money on a Summer Art Program I’ve had my own on for a few years. It’s held in CSU Monteray Bay! Students can take design and photography classes from professionals in the industry.
This year, they’re hosting a documentary photography class, which I’m totally excited about after seeing an exhibition on National Geographic photographers at the Annenburg Space for Photography in LA. You should go! It’s free.
Kay says:
October 2, 2014 at 5:25 pm
My husband and I have been married for coming up on three years. For our wedding we ran away and married at a ski resort on the top of a mountain. It would be amazing to be able to return for a getaway to a ski resort for our anniversary!
October 2, 2014 at 5:26 pm
I would spend the money on traveling! I would love to visit my high-school friend in New Zealand. <3
October 2, 2014 at 5:27 pm
Tickets to see John Oliver’s Last Week Tonight in NY
October 2, 2014 at 5:33 pm
i would use this money to send my best friend from boston to sydney, australia where i now reside. she just started grad school and is working three plus jobs to pay for it. i would love to share this place with her and give her the holiday she deserves! thanks designlovefest and diet coke for making dreams come true! x
October 2, 2014 at 5:34 pm
It would be a dream to be able to pay for my 6 bridesmaids’ dresses. My family and friends are everything to me, and it would be so lovely to be able to cover that expense for them. They’ve always been there for me!
Marlene says:
October 2, 2014 at 5:36 pm
I would very much like take my mom to Paris. $1000 for a charming airbnb flat for a week or two. Yes, please!
October 2, 2014 at 5:39 pm
October 2, 2014 at 5:40 pm
Like a lot of other people, things have been tight for us this year, and Christmas is just around the corner…yikes! I’d love to share a magical Christmas with my family. Big tree. Pretty decorations. Amazing food. And lots of laughs. Forget the big ticket items. Forget the bills. Creating special memories with loved ones is more fulfilling. That would leave a lovely sweet taste in my mouth. x
October 2, 2014 at 5:40 pm
How rad is this giveaway! Right now, I live in a one-bedroom apartment that doubles as my office. I spend so much time working here, that I don’t make my apartment enough of a place to “relax” and I don’t have a sofa or any living room furniture. I’d LOVE to use the prize on a new sofa and a couple things to make my living room feel like home.
| 252,156 |
As an automotive supplier, Bosch believes that the most substantial impact the automotive industry can make is to produce safer vehicles equipped with modern safety systems. At the same time it is also about helping people to stay safe on the road - no matter whether they are driving, cycling or walking.
To remind people to be considerate we set out to look for a timeworn and blackened building wall, a highly visible space located in a heavily congested and high traffic part of Yangon’s Mayangone Township and used a Bosch high-pressure power washer to “write” a safety message. The message read “Always be careful when you drive”. We were supported by upcoming local graffiti artist, Arker Kyaw, to come up with a corresponding artwork and help us “paint” it on the wall.
Creativity that lives within Yangon.
We aim to work closely with the relevant parties to share knowledge and expertise towards creating a higher level of awareness on the critical need for vehicle and road safety.
6 million
Did you know? Bosch reached over 6 million people in Myanmar with the Beauty Beneath campaign to help make a difference for road safety in Myanmar.
Technology invented for life
Bosch has been working on technological advancements with the vision of accident-free driving since 1978. The company invented the world's first antilock braking system (ABS) for passenger cars that prevents car wheels from locking during an emergency braking scenario. This innovation allows the driver to maintain steering control and in most situations, shortens the braking distance without skidding. In 1995, Bosch improved the technology by developing the world's first electronic stability program (ESP).
The Beauty Beneath press conference allowed Bosch to share their latest automotive technology and road safety activity.
80%
Did you know? According to studies, ESP & ABS can prevent up to 80 percent of all skidding accidents. This is why more and more countries are requiring new vehicles to be fitted with it as standard equipment.
As a supplier of mobility solutions, Bosch is dedicated to help increase road safety and make a difference by providing the innovative technologies.
Our Commitment to Road Safety
Beauty Beneath is a part of Bosch’s ongoing “We Help Make A Difference” campaign in Southeast Asia which aims to create awareness for motorists to stay focused on the road and avoid traffic accidents. Bosch is committed to helping save lives by keeping roads safer through our technological advancements with the vision of accident-free driving.
| 2,606 |
It has been a long time since we have shared news on this page. Liam keeps growing taller, sweeter, smarter and even more clever by the day. The nature of muscular dystrophy means things are constantly changing in Liam’s body too.
One thing holds true. The thoughtful nature of the people around us. In this post, our neighbor shines. Anyone who drives down our street will notice a house with plenty of trucks in different stages of repair and a work truck with the name MH Equipment. Our neighbors Joe and his wife Mandi love all things with wheels and it shows in their generosity to our son.
Over the past year he has seen Liam ride his bike around the neighborhood. Unfortunately it has been less and less frequent over the past few months as Liam has expressed it is becoming more difficult to have the stamina to ride. Joe saw that when we had our grand adventure our west last summer we rented ebikes. Liam thrived on this bike and it was magic for our family. Joe approached us with an idea.
MH Equipment encourages their employees, like their forklift mechanic Joe, to look for ways to help others. They generously paid for half of the cost of a new ebike from Vilppu’s Bike Repairs for our Liam. Joe, didn’t stop there. He also donated his own money to help cover the cost. Mark and I had a small part to play in this purchase, and we are so grateful for the help.
The overwhelming complexity of Liam’s needs can be all consuming. Having our neighbors and friends come to us with an idea, and then doing the leg work to make it happen means so much. Thank you!
If you see Liam around town give him a wave but don’t slow down, he’ll blast past you!
Posted on October 1, 2021 by Betsy Walker Posted in Blog .
Almost seven months ago we placed an order for a new wheelchair accessible van for Liam. We are pleased to say that after many delays we are now the proud owners of a brand new Honda Odyssey, complete with an in-floor ramp for Liam’s wheelchair and all the bells and whistles of a space ship!
We have each of you to thank for making the cost of this vehicle more manageable! The cost of the conversion was covered by generous donations from friends, family and strangers. Butler County also helped to get us to the finish line to cover the conversion costs.
We want to give a special thank you to our families. They directed the loved ones of my Uncle Doug Bomholt and my Uncle Doug Hennessey to donate to Liam, instead of donating flowers, after their deaths. This love and support has meant so much to us as we saved and looked toward the future for our sweet Liam.
This vehicle will give Liam mobility and freedom for years to come. In three short years Liam will be learning to drive and we are so excited that he has a van built for his needs. The hope for this van is that it will take Liam through high school, college and young adulthood. We feel such optimism for the future knowing that this tool is here for him!
Call for help
Posted on May 11, 2021 by Betsy Walker Posted in Blog .
We need your help.
Our family has been without a wheelchair accessible vehicle for nine months. It is now time that we purchase a new vehicle and we need your help with the staggering cost of converting a van to be wheelchair accessible.
We are not asking for assistance with the cost of the van, we simply ask for support in covering the cost of the conversion. The conversion cost of a new van for Liam will cost $33,000. Again, this is just for the conversion. Due to the pandemic we have had trouble locating and receiving grant funding as most resources are now focused on other issues. Our need still remains and the nature of chronic illness is that our issues will never going away.
We have saved $19,000 toward the cost of the conversion. We have also requested funding from the county but we are not guaranteed financial assistance. Please consider donating.
It takes a huge emotional toll to keep asking for help, but we know we are not alone in our struggles. We are so grateful for all the help we have been given over the years and we are always looking for our own ways of paying it forward.
What good luck! What bad luck!
Posted on August 16, 2020 by Betsy Walker Posted in Blog .
Originally published as ‘Fortunate’ in 1964 my favorite children’s book was renamed ‘What good luck! What bad luck!’ in 1969. I am the proud owner of a tattered and torn copy of this cherished story. Young Ned experiences all the ups and downs that life has to offer.
What good luck!
Ned got a letter that said,
“Please come to a surprise party.”
The party was in Florida and he was in New York.
What good luck!
A friend lent him an airplane.
The motor exploded.
Ned stumbles through his day, full of fear and hope, excitement and let down.
The current world is full of fear and hope, and we are doing our best to keep our feet under us. Living during a pandemic is terrifying for anyone, even more so for those living with chronic disease. Our family is frightened, hopeful, anxious but with a renewed sense of calm and focus on our priorities.
Our school system has decided to start the year online and we’re so grateful. Liam and Lydia will be staying home all year due to Liam’s extra vulnerability and we are comfortable with this decision. Are you ready for the zinger?
What good luck! We have a safe, warm home.
What bad luck! We can’t have loved ones come to our home.
What good luck! Mom and Dad both work from home.
What bad luck! We can’t play with friends or go to the pool and playground.
What good luck! Liam has a power wheelchair that can take him on close adventures.
What bad luck! Our wheelchair accessible van is no longer safe to drive and is now gone.
What good luck! We have time to save and plan for a new vehicle since we aren’t driving many places.
What good luck! We are not alone and have supportive friends and family.
If you find yourself in a position to help us reach our goal we would be ever so grateful. We are prepared to pay for the cost of a new minivan but would appreciate help covering the cost of the $32,000 conversion to make the van accessible to a wheelchair.
We understand that right now is a terrible time to ask for donations. Even through a pandemic, muscular dystrophy doesn’t go away and Liam’s needs are as complex as ever.
Posted on March 16, 2018 by Betsy Walker Posted in Blog .
Living with a disability comes with many challenges. One of the most common challenges is mobility. WIth the generosity of our amazing friends and family we were able to fully fund a van that would accommodate Liam’s powerchair and help us to keep him on the move and active in the world.
We are about to tackle the next big barrier that people with disabilities face, finding appropriate housing.
Our current home has been a perfect ‘starter home’ for our family. We moved in when Liam was still growing in my body. We had all the dreams that a budding family of three could imagine. Paint a nursery, enjoy playing in our fenced in backyard and then sit around the fireplace during our cold Ohio winters. It has truly been a home to love.
We are now facing the reality that this house will not work for our family. Not only are our children growing older, they are growing larger. They need space that we just don’t have. Liam currently can’t use his wheelchair in our house, luckily, he doesn’t have to, yet.
Our door ways are too tight and the bathrooms are comically small. It just won’t work.
We could invest a large amount of money in rehauling the entire house to make it work, or we could move. We always knew that this home wouldn’t be our ‘forever home’ so now it is time to make the next step.
We have given our amazing friend and realtor the challenging task of finding a home that meets our large list of needs. Due to our desire to stay in Oxford and the Talawanda school district we have limited options. Sure, we could build, but to be honest, that sounds terrible to me.
Liam needs a home with a main floor master that we can make all his. Mark needs a home office that isn’t stuffed with all of my teacher supplies. He shouldn’t have to explain to co-workers in Dubui or London why there are stickers and paints all around him. I also have my own dreams of creating a preschool in our home so a full basement would be amazing.
When we started on this journey, I was completely willing to set aside my own goals and dreams to make sure that Liam had everything. I’m realizing now that I too need to have a home and a career that makes me feel satisfied.
Our home also needs to be a place that Liam and Lydia can feel like they can have their friends over to play. I grew up in a home that all my friends knew that they could just walk right on in without knocking. I want that for my children. I need that for Liam. He may not have the option to easily go to a friends house. They may have too many stairs, or a small bathroom that he can’t maneuver. We need our home to be the place to hang.
There may come a day very soon that we call on our handy friends and loving neighbors to help us to build a ramp, widen a doorway or open a shower. I am so thankful that we have the love and support of all of you. We know that we can make this move without fear because we have your help.
Posted on November 12, 2017 by Betsy Walker Posted in Blog .
A year or so ago, Liam’s doctor recommended applying to have our family granted a ‘Dream Vacation’. He told us that this would be a great age to go since Liam is old enough to show his own interests and still young enough that he is able to participate in many activities.
We were granted our trip by a wonderful organization called Earth Angels.
We immediately felt loved and cared for by the volunteers in this group. You could see in their eyes that they genuinely wanted us to relax and enjoy this opportunity. Liam was asked what he might like to do on a dream trip. Being 8 years old at the time he didn’t quite feel confident with giving a response. Liam quietly, and respectfully asked if maybe, um, if it wasn’t too much to ask, he could go to Great Wolf Lodge? Our Earth Angel friends said “think bigger.” Liam’s eyes widened and he then knew what he really wanted would be acceptable, “Harry Potter World!” he said. “Oh, we should probably go to Disney too, ya know, for Lydia to see the princesses” he added.
The boys are ready to fly!
Over the next few months we received the details that our flight, resort and park tickets were organized. Every vehicle transfer from hotel to plane, plane to hotel, park to hotel, etc. were all covered as well. We knew we were in for a treat. A week before the trip we met with the generous folks at Earth Angels again and they wrote us a check. They covered every last dime of this trip. All food, souvenirs, and any random expenses that the trip might include. They reassured us that we will not spend a dime.
Earth Angels set us up with a hotel on Friday night at the Columbus Airport so that we didn’t need to wake early on Saturday and make our day even more taxing. We had a bit of a hiccup as Lydia needed to be taken to a Minute Clinic and was diagnosed with Strep. It wouldn’t be a vacation with kiddos unless someone was sick!
In the morning we had a lovely breakfast with our Earth Angel friends at Max and Erma’s. The kids couldn’t wait to get on the plane as this was Lydia’s first flight and the first flight Liam remembers (he was a toddler when we went to Italy). Southwest was very helpful in guiding us on how to handle Liam’s power wheelchair. Mark and I were very nervous on if the chair would arrive in Orlando without any damage.
It was so sweet to watch both our children, sitting comfortably in our bulk head seats, looking out the window as we climbed above the clouds. I don’t think flying will ever get old for me, it’s so amazing.
Upon arrival in Orlando we saw Liam’s chair had arrived with no damage, shew! This was a big relief as any damage to the chair would have meant Liam couldn’t be independent during the week and that we then would need to schedule service upon return. Yet another doctor’s appointment is not ideal.
Orlando greeted us with a sunny 82 degree day. The weather couldn’t have been better during our stay. Everyday was warm enough for water play, but not too hot to enjoy.
Traveling with someone in a wheelchair adds all sorts of questions. Will reliable transportation that we reserved show up? Will our hotel room be accessible, even if requested, will in actually be available? Will the driver of any bus/van be confident on how to use their lift? Will they treat Liam’s chair with respect when they tie it down before travel? Will other people on the bus move to allow for Liam to maneuver his chair into position? Will the elevators be working? Are the elevators central or will they be in some far off corner?
Lydia and Mark working their magic!
When arriving at the Cabana Bay resort at Universal Studios the kiddos got a kick out of the 50’s music and decor theme. We talked about how the kids in the videos being shown around the resort would now be Nana, Pa and Baba’s ages.
Liam couldn’t wait to get into the park, so off we went to explore. Being a bit clueless we didn’t bring the right tickets and ended up just walking around City Walk and getting dinner including all the sugary treats the kids could want. After all this would be a “Yes WEEK” instead of our typical “Yes Day”.
Wow! The dragon heat was intense!
It was a good thing we waiting until the morning to make our way to the back of the park for our first visit to Diagon Alley (one of the Harry Potter parks) as the kids were fresh and ready.
Nestled in central Florida is one of the most incredibly detailed and awe inspiring streets you will ever experience. Our jaws dropped when we came around the corner and rumbled over the cobble stone streets under our feet. For any Harry Potter fans you absolutely must visit this park. For those of us who haven’t read the books, you still need to go. It was absolutely incredible. The detail in making the park was astonishing.
The children were eager to choose their interactive wands and get started casting spells around the park. Liam had his eye on Professor Dumbledore’s wand and Lydia picked Hermione’s. The park provided many opportunities for wand holders to practice their spells and make the park come to life. Some of these spells included raising a feather, making it rain, turning lights on and off, or making a pile of dragon poop shoot out a stink.
With our bellies full of butterbeer and fish and chips we felt pretty lucky to give Liam the chance to ride some roller coasters. Because of his neck weakness and future heart issues this will not always be an option. Universal Studios employees immediately sent him in the Express lines and then told him he could ride twice in a row if he wanted. He understood that he was lucky, and without those long wait times he had a truly amazing experience. Waiting in line would have been too much for him, and we are so grateful for the special treatment.
The Hogwarts Express gave us a unique experience as we rested on our way to Hogsmeade. It is pretty impressive that you feel like you are in England when you are actually in Florida. Job well done, Universal and JK Rowling!
This trip included LOTS of walking/wheeling, sleeping fast and hard, eating way too much (usually filled with sugar) and being smart about taking breaks when we needed.
We were lucky enough to spend a full day at the Volcano Bay Water Park. Our kids LOVE water parks and it shows with their sweet smiles. Mark and I both had our time to ride the big kid rides and we even talked Lydia and Liam into riding a kind of scary boat ride. I’m so glad they both stepped out of their comfort zone and found that ‘kind of scary’ can be really fun!
Water parks are not power wheelchair friendly. Mark and I have become very comfortable with advocating for our boy. Most businesses want to be accommodating and do their best to make sure that Liam has a positive experience. At Volcano Bay we walked in and told the employees the best way to support our boy. They did everything we asked and with a smile. It is further proof that confidence in yourself and knowing what you need will give Liam the life he deserves, the life we all deserve.
On to Disney. We enjoyed two mornings of the Magic Kingdom and two evenings at Animal Kingdom. Everything was way over the top and the kids took full advantage of our ‘Yes Trip’. Lydia chose a princess dress and heels and Liam had an Avatar action figure designed to look like him. These are both items that we would not have had the chance to buy for them had we come on our own. Thanks to Earth Angels we didn’t hesitate to say YES!
Mark dancing in the streets with Lydia.
Snuggling with Liam and eating our chocolate frog.
Liam giving me encouragement to be ‘brave’ and ride the coaster with him.
Experiencing Liam’s first airplane trip (that he remembers; second if you count the flight to Italy when he was one).
Convincing Liam and Lydia to ride the Krakatau water coaster at Volcano Bay.
Seeing Lydia determined to master the dance moves in Africa at The Animal Kingdom.
Avatar design and figure that looks like me
I got a really neat wand- the Elder Wand!
Lydia’s Top 5
Merry Go Round
Cinderella dress and light up shoes
If you find yourself looking for an opportunity to contribute financially somewhere, I assure you that this group is worth while. Our family initially felt guilty about the use of funds to go on this trip. We know the enormous cost of basic day to day needs when you have a child with special needs. We also know that life is worth living and when given the opportunity to take our children somewhere special is given to us, we need to take it! We are beyond grateful to Earth Angels for sending us on Liam’s DREAM TRIP! Thank you!
Posted on June 19, 2017 by Betsy Walker Posted in Blog .
“Would you like to go to a Cincinnati Reds game this weekend?”
“Sure, sounds fun!”
For most families this might be the extent of the conversation that goes into planning a simple outing to a baseball game. For our family, it takes just a bit more.
Step 1: Find seats that are both wheelchair accessible and all four seats are together. Then debate on purchasing the tickets since the cheapest tickets are $35 instead of $15 for the real cheap seats. We pay the extra.
Step 2: Think about how the start time (7:15pm) might affect Liam’s ability to participate. Will he be too tired to enjoy the game? Will his body allow him to to stay for the entire game? Will he be in pain the entire next day because he used too much energy that night before? Don’t forget, I will need to slow him down through out the day of to ensure that he doesn’t use up all his reserves before we even drive to Cincinnati. Will it be too hot? Will he get cold when the sun goes down? Will I notice, since I can properly control my body temperature and don’t automatically remember he gets cold and hot more easily than I do?
Step 3: Remind Liam and Lydia to save their energy all day so that we can have fun tonight. Remind them again. And again.
Step 4: Make sure the powerchair has a full charge.
Step 5: Have a brief battle with Liam over bringing the chair at all. Encourage him to see that there will be a lot of walking just to get into the stadium. Try to give him control of his choices, and allow him to be upset when he just wants to walk but we both know that he would need carried after a few minutes. Remember how out of shape I am and how hard it would be on my own body if he needed carried. Feel guilty.
Step 6: Arrive in Cincinnati and realize that we didn’t plan enough and don’t know where we can park. We have the additional challenge of finding a spot and a half/ accessible spot so Liam can unload safely.
Step 7: Ask for directions/ recommendations from two police officers.
Step 8: See the kindness and compassion in their hearts.
Step 9: Unload and try to move quickly as the game will begin shortly and we don’t want to miss any of the fun!
Step 10: Crowds of people surround Liam in his wheelchair. He feels overwhelmed and uncertain about where to roll. He does his best to be careful of feet and not bumping into unaware peers.
Step 11: The elevator is broken. Really. Where to now?
Step 12: Ask for help again. Kindness shows through from strangers. Smile.
Step 13: Walk to far corner of stadium to the working elevator. Elevator tenants speak with raised voices, and go overboard to show how supportive they are of Liam in his wheelchair (almost ignoring his excited sister by his side).
Step 14: Give us directions to our seats. We unload the elevator and maneuver through anxiety causing crowds to find that we are met with stairs. It might as well be a brick wall to us.
Step 15: Turn around and return to elevator.
Step 16: Get proper directions and then use the ramp. Mom is feeling a bit hot, and emotionally tired. I just want to find our seats. The game has started.
Step 17: We find our seats only to discover that we had purchased the wrong seats and don’t have enough companion seats together. Mark stands for the game, because that is the kind of guy he is.
Step 18: Buy all the treats. Pay all the money. Totally worth it.
Step 19: Watch my children love every minute of the game and then remind myself that it is worth all the fuss.
Step 20: Watch Liam take his shirt on and off as his body, void of fat, goes from sweating to chilled and then back again.
Step 21: Liam is clearly getting tired, we remind his to raise his wheelchair so he can recline and still see the game. It works wonders. Be thankful for the donated money to be able to buy the extra feature on his chair to allow for this moment.
Step 22: Remind our children that they can go anywhere, and do anything, with just a little planning and patience.
Step 23: Work through crowd again with a bit more confidence on how to return to our car.
Step 24: Watch Lydia sleep during the drive home. Watch Liam turn a shade of grey and tell stories the entire hour drive home. Knowing full well that we will not be able to do his nightly stretches tonight. It’s late. Feel guilty.
Step 25: Watch the affects of this late night run its course on the body of my baby. Feel sad. Feel happy for the experience. Plan the next outing. Stay focused on joy.
Posted on March 18, 2017 by Betsy Walker Posted in Blog .
The Walker family will be traveling to Washington DC and Arlington, Virginia for a week this summer. We will be attending the CMD Scientific and Family Conference. This conference will give Liam and Lydia time to socialize with other children who have Muscular Dystrophy and their siblings. It will also give Mark and I the chance to learn new strategies on how to manage this disease as it progresses.
Liam winning the ticket jackpot!
Liam won 2nd place at the Cub Scouts Pinewood Derby.
This conference is particularly exciting for us because it is focused on Liam’s subtype! We have no idea what his progression will be, but having the opportunity to meet with the few other families in the world who know EXACTLY what we are dealing with would be an absolute gift.
During this trip we plan on spending additional time with family in the area and sight seeing in the capitol. We will be driving because we are not interested in wrestling with airline issue with Liam’s wheelchair and then needing to rent a wheelchair accessible van.
Conference Registration costs: $316
Kids Camp (activities for Liam and Lydia that are separate so we can discuss some of the more frightening parts of the disease. : $210
Children’s Museum with Lydia.
As with all other aspects of living with a chronic disease we are doing our best to make this trip fun filled and full of happy memories. Thank you for helping with the financial burden and for giving our family a chance to learn more about LGMD.
Thank you for any help you may be able to give us.
Posted on December 1, 2016 by Betsy Walker Posted in Blog .
Today is the 5 year anniversary of the day our lives would be changed forever. When Liam was first given the diagnosis of LGMD the future was very scary, and unwelcoming. I was blind to what life would look like with a child whose body would constantly be changing, needing more assistance, and failing him.
I was terrified of my own weaknesses. I honestly didn’t know if I would be up for the task of entering into this new world that was not designed for my child. I have had many days where I still question my ability to do what is best, sometimes I just get by. Other days I hold on tight and remember that tomorrow is not going to get easier if I don’t learn to problem solve now.
We measure life is steps. How many steps will it be before Liam can take a break? How many steps before his legs start to sway, and he shows his fatigue? Where are the steps that will unfortunately block easy access to the fun or necessary movements in life? What steps do we need to make to ensure that his care givers know how to keep him safe? Step by step we do our best to prepare for the next step.
A painful reality, but also benefit, of LGMD is that we are slowly introduced to our new normal. We grieve, problem solve, and then fight. We have been given a view of what the future might look like and this has given us even more focus on what we need to do to be prepared for Liam’s needs. Mark and I will do our best to stay ahead of Liam’s extra needs and we hope that we meet them with optimism and hope.
Five years ago, our future changed. My heart still hurts every day for the uncertainty of Liam’s future and the pain of his heartbreaks. Most importantly, my heart wishes for the courage that I know I will need in order to be the best mom for him. The mom that Liam deserves.
Posted on November 3, 2016 by Betsy Walker Posted in Blog .
Liam is doing very well these days. We met with his team of doctors in late September and they said Liam is doing very well. His arms and ankles are contracting more every day, but we still stay vigilant with his nightly stretches to combat these changes.
Liam is thriving in second grade as he devours books and is making his own comic books each afternoon when he returns home. He particularly loves Captain Underpants. I’m a firm believer that fart jokes are hilarious, but even I get tired of an eight year old boy’s noise making. Kids are gross.
This year has been action-packed with Cub Scout fun. Mark and Liam love their time with their Pack and all the camping and teamwork involved. The buddies that he has made in this group are a sweet as they come!
Liam riding on Mark’s back as they went for a hike with his cub scout troop.
Liam’s wheelchairs have become a necessary part of his day to day life. There are a few outings where we know that in a pinch we could carry him, but with his increasing size we are very purposeful with planning to bring the chair. I’m just not strong enough for what he needs.
Liam is becoming increasingly responsible, and his work load has increased at home. He is now cleaning his monkey cage–I mean bathroom–all on his own. He also enjoys using the leaf blower to clean the deck. The leaf blower is heavy and requires some strength to control, and our boy is amazing and finds a way to get the job done despite these challenges.
I recently attended a discussion at our local library regarding ‘overparenting’. I find myself working particularly hard on reflecting on how I can ensure Liam is independent while still helping him when the day is just too hard. My day with my son is a balancing act. I know all parents feel this delicate dance must happen, but I know my load is a lot heavier that most.
Liam racing around while we wait for his school bus.
Liam enjoying the sun and the sand while on vacation in Oak Island, North Carolina.
On a final note, as a Public Service Announcement, please stop being so clumsy around what you perceive as different. Yes, Liam uses a wheelchair and has physical limitations, but if that is the only thing you think about when you speak with him, then you are missing out on a hilarious kid. If you see a person out in public that is in a chair, don’t assume they are without a voice or opinion. Please don’t ever touch a person’s wheelchair without their expressed permission; this is unwanted contact and can be dangerous. Also, if you are a helper, offer a comment such as “I’m here if you need help with anything”. It speaks volumes. Also, please don’t speak with an elevated volume with Liam. He can hear you just fine and thinks you are insane when you scream while having a conversation.
Thanks for your ongoing support and kindness. Our next challenge is that our family is saving up to buy a home that can easily be modified to meet Liam’s needs. Liam wants a three level house with tons of stairs, but my gut instinct tells me that would be a poor choice!
| 29,844 |
The processes of selling are well-known, though, of course, what’s most effective and appropriate varies from context to context. And there’s always room to get better at it.
An important question is whether it’s entirely open to a leader with more rounded responsibility for the business or organisation to sell in the same manner. Can they adopt conventional sales techniques? Or do they need to modify their approach?
Of course, you might be thinking business leaders don’t need to sell. They have somebody to do that for them. That’s not my experience. For the most part, business leaders need to at least get involved in bringing new business into their organisation. Indeed that’s often the most important part of their role.
And in comparison with the specialist salesperson, the business leader needs to meet different customer expectations. In particular, the customer infers the organisation’s values from its leader. And these need to match what the customer expects.
And also, because the leader has responsibility for delivery as well as sales, and everything else besides, they need to be convincing about the whole of the business in an end-to-end way, not just that they will be the customer’s representative in the company’s processes.
And it’s very definitely a relational sale if the leader is involved.
What do you think?
How should a business leader approach the sales process? As if they were a salesperson? Or something else?
Filed Under: Leadership, Relationship Skills Tagged With: business leader, Dr David Fraser, relational sale, selling, transactional sale
Comments
Alan Mackie says
8 June 2016 at 1:37 pm
Interesting article. The MD/Owner should be the ultimate salesperson. However your question should they “sell with the same approach as a salesperson?”. Absolutely. However perhaps not in the way you might think. Or perhaps not in the tone of your blog. A business needs a very clear sales process. From my experience a rare thing indeed. The MD should follow it as much as the sales team. However, the sales process should NOT be the traditional approach which might be what you are alluding too. Who wants to deal with some pushy, tacky, jargon rich, fast-talking, manipulative salesperson? No-one. Often in order to avoid being like the stereo-typical salesperson the MD/Business Owner decides to go super passive. Almost as bad. Instead the whole company could be much better off having a common commerical language and adopt an adult-adult, non-manipulative sales-process where there is always a mutually agreed and mutually beneficial next step.
Mike Churchill says
29 July 2016 at 1:05 pm
There are likely to be a number of differences. Firstly the Director will probably not be able to participate in the Sales process in the same manner. This creates the risk of destabilizing the sales work-flow unless either full integrated or clearly aloof. Secondly it is likely to be on a different level, higher up in the buyer’s decision tree or on a bigger scale. Therefore if the customer and offering is different so too must be the approach.
| 3,100 |
“My parents thought it was unusual, but I became interested in injuries...specifically how athletes get hurt and how to treat injuries,” recalls alum Zach Wight.
His curiosity about sports injuries now makes a lot of sense, because he is currently about to graduate from Baylor University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology—with the intention of pursuing a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree.
Zach also appreciated sports early on at Hudson—he participated in almost every sport offered, and attributes valuable lessons about leadership and teamwork to those experiences. And while he always had a general interest in the biological life sciences, he remembers a specific “aha” moment at Hudson when his passion for health and medicine was truly sparked. “In my Grade 11 Biology class, we had to do a presentation, and I chose a project on the discovery of insulin. I went to the Banting House in London, Ontario to do research about the founder of insulin, Frederick Banting. I interviewed people and made a video, and my teacher was really enthusiastic about it.”
So enthusiastic, in fact, that when it was time to obtain his university recommendation letters, he says his teacher remembered it and cited his insulin project.
“She mentioned my project in her letter,” which he says is a testament to how caring and supportive Hudson teachers are.
While Zach began Hudson in Grade 5, he cites that what makes Hudson unique overall is its small size and the close-knit relationships everyone has with peers and teachers. He also appreciated how students could fully explore their interests and really focus on specific fields.
“At Hudson, it was the first time I was exposed to the natural sciences such as chemistry, biology, and physics and that’s when I decided biology was most enjoyable for me. I was even able to narrow down what kind of biology I was interested in.”
And narrowing down a few choices is something Zach is currently doing: in addition to the DPT program, he’s leaving an option open to follow the medical school path, but he's also making time to experience first-hand what types of medical careers are out there.
“I’m going to take a year to work in a clinical setting where I can be exposed to a bunch of different health careers. I really want to get broad experience and learn what it’s like to work in a professional healthcare environment,” and that, he says, will help him determine what to pursue next.
Alumni
Related Posts
Nov 24, 2022
Alex (’14) shares the advice that prepared him for Industrial Engineering at University of Toronto and entrepreneurial challenges at the crossroads of finance and technology.
Nov 24, 2022
Alumni Stories: Athena Yaoutsis
After pivoting from an arts program to join Hudson in Grade 10, Athena (’14) grew a passion for STEM that led to a biology studies at UBC and new horizons with the Canadian Coast Guard.
Nov 24, 2022
Choosing a university program is just the start of finding your academic interests: Doris Braunstein (’18) explains how taking a long view has helped her get the most out of Life Sciences at UofT.
Meet with Admissions today to learn more about why families choose Hudson.
Start your own journey at Hudson
AdmissionsLower SchoolUpper Schoolnews
Hudson College is a co-ed, non-denominational private school in Toronto offering an inclusive, enriching environment and balanced Ontario curriculum from Junior Kindergarten through Grade 12.
| 3,614 |
We are growing fast and so we are on the hunt for fresh talent to complement our brilliant and hardworking teams.
At Infotools, you’ll work with some of the biggest brands in the world as well as smaller game-changers who are blazing new paths. Whether you are a recent graduate or someone with years of experience, we’d love to hear from you.
Applying from overseas? Due to NZ Immigration policy, we can only consider overseas candidates that have applied for a job that has been advertised on a recognized job advertising website. If you're hoping to secure a work permit, please click here to see our advertised jobs.
Submit your CV Apply from overseas
“I enjoy working with clients, getting to know their business from an internal perspective, not just what is perceived from the outside.”
Why you'll love working with us
We offer incredible career opportunities – in NZ with Infotools, and globally with our parent company, Ipsos. But that’s not all. Our employees also enjoy:
Hybrid and flexible working,
Subsidised car parking, free secure bicycle parking
Medical insurance for yourself and discounts for your family
Wellness benefits, including confidential counselling, flu jabs and fresh fruit,
The day off on your birthday
Learning opportunities, including a leadership development programme.
You can't beat the location!
Our head office is in Takapuna, Auckland, just a stone’s throw from the beach – great for an early morning run to set yourself up for the day or a lunchtime walk to clear your mind and refocus for the afternoon.
We're surrounded by shopping, gyms, restaurants, cafes, and all of the other amenities you need for “life admin”,
“We’re very lucky to live in paradise at the bottom of the world, and even luckier that our office is so close to one of the nicest slices of that paradise!”
| 1,908 |
Of all the men who were falsely accused of being Anne Boleyn’s companions in adultery, to point a finger at Henry Norris makes the most sense in terms of proximity and politics but the least sense in terms of his close relationship with Henry VIII.
If historian Greg Walker is correct in his 2002 proposal that Anne's downfall was not due to her miscarriage of a male foetus in January of 1536 but instead to some hasty words she said in spring, then Norris was a ready-made target. One day in late April, the queen asked Henry Norris, who was the king’s groom of the stool and engaged to her cousin Madge Shelton, when he planned to wed. Norris hedged that he would wait just a bit longer, which vexed Anne. In her anger she told him he was looking for “dead men's shoes, for if ought came to the king but good, you would look to have me”. This was a major blunder. It was treason to even think about the death of the king, let alone to talk about whom his queen might marry after his demise. Norris was appalled and Anne knew almost immediately that she had said something dangerous. She sent Norris to her chaplain, John Skyp, to swear that she was a good woman and faithful to the king.
The theory that her conversation with Norris led to her execution has widespread support among historians, for good reasons. After all, Anne was on shaky ground; her enemies were awaiting an opportunity to dispose of her and may have turned her snapped comment into her death warrant. The Catholic faction at court, which hated Anne with a passion, was always eager to drag her down. Henry had recently started to woo Jane Seymour, a member of a family who were in support of Catholicism and the princess Mary at the time. (The Seymours would later become staunch Protestants after Edward VI was born, especially once it became clear that Mary was still a rallying point for Catholic dissidents.) The pro-Catholic courtiers hoped to use the king’s mystifying lust for plain Jane to at least get Mary reinstated in the line of succession even if they could not overthrow Anne herself. The ranks of those enemies had grown and now included Thomas Cromwell, a former ally who had helped craft Henry’s divorce from Katherina and was the king’s current Chancellor of the Exchequer. Both the queen and Cromwell were Protestants but they had lately begun to differ on the direction the Reformation should take. This came to a head in a battle over the smaller monasteries. Cromwell, who was possibly motivated by religious hatred of Catholics and certainly by the desire to fill the King’s coffers, wanted to destroy every monastery and confiscate their riches for the Crown. In contrast, Anne wanted them left intact and used to promote learning and produce scholars who would spread the Gospel throughout England.
Cromwell had enjoyed a ringside seat for the destruction of Cardinal Wolsey by Anne’s faction. He was too wise to underestimate Anne and knew she was a formidable obstacle in the way of his plans to line his pockets with a share of the expropriated monastic goods. Working under the timeless assumption that “the enemy of my enemy is my friend,” Cromwell began to help the Catholic faction, and Jane Seymour, gain more of Henry’s favour. Thus, when Anne told Norris he looked for “dead men’s shoes,” her enemies made sure that the news quickly reached the king’s ear with the worst possible interpretation.
It was also in Cromwell’s best interest to keep Norris on the hot seat in regards to Anne’s mythical adulteries. Norris had played suitor to Anne in the style of courtly love, but he may have also had a real crush on her. Anne must have suspected as much, or she wouldn’t have accused him of waiting for a dead man’s shoes. Cromwell’s charges against Anne were smoke and mirrors, and Norris at least provided a possibility of a romance between Anne and a courtier. Cromwell could also rely on the “where there is smoke there is fire” argument to associate Norris with Anne’s pretend adultery. Furthermore, keeping Norris locked away helped Cromwell control the king. As the groom of the stool, Norris literally wiped the king’s butt. Thus, Norris was privy to the king’s privacy and could have unfettered conversation with the monarch. What if his explanations changed Henry’s mind? What is Norris allowed Anne’s defenders access to the king, or encouraged the king to hear them? If the king came to believe Anne was innocent, it would be Cromwell’s head on the chopping block instead. No, better for Cromwell if Norris was thrown in the Tower and convicted. Let one of Cromwell’s allies clean the king’s bum and keep the pro-Anne faction far from Henry’s sight.
While it makes perfect sense for Cromwell to target Norris (who had made himself a sitting duck by mooning over Anne), it does NOT make sense that Henry allowed Norris to be killed. Norris was one of the king’s most trusted men, loyal to a fault, and Henry was said to have loved him dearly. He was one of the king’s best friends for more than 20 years! Norris was someone the king knew was honest; why did Henry suddenly decided Norris was capable of base treachery on so little evidence? Moreover, Norris had sworn repeatedly to Henry that he had not had any kind of physical relationship with Anne. Why would Henry discount the honest Norris’s oath on the matter?
I think I am such a strong adherent to the theory that Henry had McLeod syndrome – and was therefore clinically irrational and paranoid after the summer of 1531 – because so much of the king’s behaviour during the time of Anne Boleyn’s downfall is so contradictory to Henry’s prior behaviour. Henry was not a man to kill his friends. The king was, if anything, overly trusting and generous. That’s why Cardinal Wolsey had thinned the herd of courtiers attending the king in 1519; they were getting too many expensive boons from the exuberant and loving monarch. Norris was one of those Wolsey allowed to stay among Henry’s privy gentlemen because the Cardinal knew that Norris was a true subject of the king and not a greedy sycophant. After knowing Norris for decades Henry turned against him and discounted their entire friendship almost overnight? It beggars the understanding!
It is easy to see why Cromwell would have singled Norris out for an accusation, but it is very difficult to see why Henry believed his groom of the stool would commit such perfidy.
Kyra Cornelius Kramer is the author of Blood Will Tell: A Medical Explanation of the Tyranny of Henry VIII and The Jezebel Effect: Why the Slut Shaming of Famous Queens Still Matters. She is a freelance academic with BS degrees in both biology and anthropology from the University of Kentucky, as well as a MA in medical anthropology from Southern Methodist University. She has written essays on the agency of the Female Gothic heroine and women's bodies as feminist texts in the works of Jennifer Crusie. She has also co-authored two works; one with Dr. Laura Vivanco on the way in which the bodies of romance heroes and heroines act as the sites of reinforcement of, and resistance to, enculturated sexualities and gender ideologies, and another with Dr. Catrina Banks Whitley on Henry VIII.
Ms. Kramer lives in Bloomington, IN with her husband, three young daughters, assorted pets, and occasionally her mother, who journeys northward from Kentucky in order to care for her grandchildren while her daughter feverishly types away on the computer.
Posted in : Guest Articles
There are 6 comments Go To Comment
L / May 18, 2015 at 6:45 pm
I don’t think I have seen this portrait of Anne before Kyra. It is certainly a very stunning looking portrait. Who painted it?
< / Post Author May 18, 2015 at 6:51 pm
I actually added it to the post, it’s from my file of Anne Boleyn portraits. The artist is unknown but it’s from the French School and is from Chateau de Beauregard, France.
L / May 19, 2015 at 12:43 pm
Thank you Claire, it is certainly a very nice portrait, not so severe as Holbien’s, portrait of Anne. But then I am not a great fan of Holbien’s portraits anyway. There a few I like which I have posted on the forum.
A softer look at the woman who changed the world.
L / March 4, 2016 at 4:32 pm
I am fascinated by this article, offering an explanation of the sad experiences of Henry’s wives, concerning their abilities to produce healthy children; and the deterioration of Henry’s behaviour over time.
The suggestion that McLeod Syndrome might be the cause does not seem to be borne out by the fact that both Mary Boleyn and Bessie Blount went on to have several successful children with other partners.
The research that I’ve read into this condition seems to suggest that although the first pregnancy may be successful, the mother will produce antibodies which will attack subsequent unborn children
Mary had 2 children, Catherine and Henry, many believing that both were fathered by Henry. She subsequently had a further 2 children with Stafford.
Bessie had on Henry Fitzroy with Henry, but went on the have 3 children in each of her 2 subsequent marriages.
If the problems were caused by the Kell positive Henry, surely Henry Carey would not have been born, and the damage caused by the presence of his children having been in the wombs of Mary and Bessie would have prevented their subsequent children being born.
What are your thoughts on this, Claire?
< / Post Author March 6, 2016 at 10:26 am
I think that Kell and McLeod Syndrome do fit for Henry VIII although I wouldn’t want to say for definite. You say “The suggestion that McLeod Syndrome might be the cause does not seem to be borne out by the fact that both Mary Boleyn and Bessie Blount went on to have several successful children with other partners” and I think there might be some confusion here. Kyra believes that Henry VIII was the one who was affected, not the women so I’m not sure what you mean. Also, we don’t know that Mary Boleyn had ANY children with Henry VIII and historians or do believe that she did argue for Catherine Carey being fathered by him rather than Henry Carey. I think there’s a bit of confusion here.
K / March 6, 2016 at 10:30 pm
If Henry’s blood type was Kell positive then any woman impregnated by the king AFTER the first baby had a INCREASED risk of miscarriage if and only if the baby had inherited the Kell gene. The women who had been impregnated by the king would have had no increased risk with any other Kell negative men. Even with Henry fathering the baby, there would be a reasonable chance that the baby would be Kell negative and thus unharmed. It was pure bad luck that Katharina of Aragon lost so many fetuses and the healthy-born boy died, and the other survivor was a girl. If Anne had lived then maybe her next child would have lived … or not. Or Jane Seymour may have lost all pregnancies after Edward’s birth. It was a genetic roll of the dice.
| 11,317 |
As an Amazon associate and affiliate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.
Felines can sometimes be very creepy. Going with their owners to the bathroom is an example of their widely told creepy behavior. The question however is, why do they do this?
Well, like most cat owners would testify, some cats are huge believers of going with their owners everywhere they go. The reasons they have for following their owners to the bathroom are most likely comparable to those they have for generally following their owners everywhere.
That being said, scientists and veterinarians at the moment haven’t come to a concrete consensus on why this happens, however, there have been numerous theories bandied around to slightly explain why one’s cat appears so bent on following its owner to the bathroom.
Renowned veterinarian Dr. Kathryn Primm states that some cats could feel particularly vulnerable when their owners aren’t present. Most people know that cats are predators, but only a few remember that they are prey as well and cats are likely cognizance of this fact.
Since humans are a form of comfort and safety, cats might feel slightly unsafe when their owners are stuck behind closed doors. This is why they prefer to continue to enjoy the safety net that their owners provide by following them to the bathroom.
Veterinarian Dr. Primm also states that curiosity plays a part as motivation to why a cat would follow its owner to the bathroom (as it does with numerous other cat behaviors that are strange). Cats are naturally visual predators and prefer to make use of their vision to make a mental note of where things are positioned.
It could be that when the bathroom door is closed shut, something mysterious happens behind it and the cat is unable to track what is happening behind the door feels bound to get to the root of it.
Felines learn rapidly that once a human sits down in the bathroom, he/she has nowhere to go. Additionally, the majority of bathrooms come with a conveniently situated counter that sits just at cat petting height. Cats see this as an amazing setup since you are unable to leave and have no choice but to pet them as much as they want.
If they had a choice, the majority of cats would prefer water that is fresh and running over the stagnant water placed in their bowl. This could be because flowing water is aerated and appeals to their taste buds better.
This basically means, if an owner turns the sink tap on for them to get a drink, it could easily become routine, causing them to follow their owners to the bathroom for a drink.
Cats just like you
Majority of feline behavior can be clarified by the simple fact of cats just liking us. Also, given the fact that the lives of domesticated cats are pretty uneventful, humans are perhaps, for most of the time the most amusing thing in the room or aspect of their lives besides play and feeding. A cat might want to follow its owner to the bathroom to see what amusing thing its owner does next.
Health
Human bathrooms seem to be a cool and exciting place to cat eyes, perhaps because of the typical tile, fewer windows, and generally smaller space. Cats are animals that seek out warm areas so they can lounge in; however, there are a few cats that prefer cool spots. Cats like these tend to enjoy spending time lounging on damp towels, cool tile, and other cool or slick surfaces. Older cats that suffer from hyperthyroidism tend to seek out cool spaces as well, as the hyperthyroidism condition causes their metabolism to kick into overdrive which then heats them up. So the cool spots are a way to cool down.
Felines are typically drawn to safe places, elevated perches and tidy, familiar hidey-holes that hold no surprises for them. Since cats are creatures of habit, they develop a routine and after that, they stick to it. Felines execute what veterinarians and scientists refer to as chaining behaviors.
These chaining behaviors connect one action to another to form a specific routine. For example, when you as human wake up in the morning, head to the bathroom to brush before attending to the cat by putting food in its bowl, it just takes a few days before cats adjust to this routine, remember it and then racing you to the bathroom, where they can pester you to hurry up and attend to their bowl. Cats typically get irate should you miss a step that is deemed important in the cat’s chain.
Surely, when there is a variation in routine, it could affect the cat and cause a change in behavior. This could be reason enough for cats to search for hiding places such as the bathroom.
The simple fact is, there are numerous reasons why cats have a peculiar fascination with bathrooms. Cats are animals that tend to do things only when they benefit from it or are rewarded in some way or form.
Primarily, the bathroom is a peculiar place in the majority of houses. Most bathrooms come with a place for the cat to perch right on the counter, which then places the cat level with its human’s face which is an ideal height for the cat to control the interaction. This because the human is seated, so he/she can’t really escape, but the cat can decide to approach or remain just beyond reach if it so desires.
Secondly, as cats are creatures of routine, the bathroom is a concrete and predictable location which is sort of the cat’s daily routine. Felines typically make use of chain behavior, which causes them to associate going to the bathroom with pawing and playing with the bath water, drinking from the sink and more. Cats are also adept at learning just how much time their owners spend in the bathroom when they visit.
Lastly, felines that spend time with their owners in the bathroom and receive attention either by talking, petting or brushing, are rewarded for visiting. This then ensures they continue to repeat the process in an attempt to receive more positive feedback. This particularly true even when page swiped at the door or under that seems to be ignored for forever gets them inside as their owners open the door. Cats will form an association between paw swiping the door and the door getting opened. The fact is, the longer a cat cries and paws at the door only to get rewarded, the more the cat learns that persistence pays off.
Most cat owners would state that they have noticed that their cats need entertainment pretty much every single time of the day. This means they can take part in activities that quickly tire out their owners, but keep them going throughout the day.
Cats have a very active imagination which transforms day to day objects into prey items that have to be stalked and pounced upon. Most places in the house resemble an amusement park to our felines and the bathroom is a centerpiece. It might seem pretty plain to us humans, but it’s fittings, toiletries, utensils, and other typical bathroom items are things that could awaken a cat’s senses.
It has been known that cats are extremely curious and bathrooms offer a smorgasbord of tactile, visual and audio interaction to create the perfect playground that stimulates their desires to interact with their surroundings.
Toilet paper is an exciting item for a cat. They are able to paw at it, shred and rip it which provides them with endless amusement.
Towels are bathroom items that cats can’t help but be tempted to pounce on or scratch. They also use towels as a place to comfortably rest when their adventures tire them out.
Bathroom cabinets are not left out, as they are great hiding spots especially since cats love to be elevated. There are so many numerous items in the bathroom that a cat would love to explore, so it’s no surprise when they want to follow their owners into the bathroom, it is just as much for the toys as much as they enjoy our company.
Be wary of cosmetics and cleaning products in the bathroom
The saying ‘curiosity killed the cat’ comes to mind. Cat owners have been surprised to meet their bathroom ransacked after having left its door open. Cats can be enticed and attracted to the numerous shapes, textures, and aromas located in a bathroom. Nevertheless, while the cat might seem pretty safe in the bathroom compared to a kitchen with knives and hot stoves, it’s imperative to be prudent. The majority of cleaning products and toiletries stored in the bathroom consist of substances that can be toxic or irritating to pets. Creams, soaps, and shampoos might have attractive aromas which may entice a cat’s curiosity, however, these products are unsuitable for consumption. Cleaning products are not the only items which could be hazardous to pets, the toilet bowl while unlikely to cause a fatality, can be unhygienic should the cat begin to play around it, especially if it hasn’t been disinfected in a while. Ensuring the toilet or bathroom door is always closed is the best way to monitor your cat and keep it safe away from cleaning products. Not only does this protect your cat, but it also reduces the likelihood that you would stumble upon a mess made by the cat in the bathroom that has to be cleaned up.
Do you feel comfortable having your cat in the bathroom with you?
While we love our kittens and cats, a couple of pet owners may find it strange and inconvenient to make use of the bathroom while their pets are also present. It really doesn’t matter that cats aren’t capable of judging us, our habits or our appearances.
The bathroom really is a space that is intimate and that can be interrupted when a human much less a cat is present with us. Curtains cats also have the knack of jumping on their owners while their owners are seated. This behavior can make achieving our “aim” difficult. If an owner feels like this, it is best to find methods to discourage your cat from following you into the bathroom.
This can be formed through training, however, this is something that requires a lot of patience, positive reinforcement and dedication. An additional way to ensure your cat doesn’t follow you into the bathroom and starts seeing the bathroom as less interesting is to ensure that other rooms in the home have been designed to create an environment that provides enough enriched stimulation and interaction. This should reduce the cat’s interest in either following you to the bathroom or exploring the bathroom at all.
Although there hasn’t been a verifiable concrete reason as to why cats follow their humans to the bathrooms, and maybe their motivation will forever remain hidden to humans, the above are a couple of perceived reasons as to why they do this. Some people consider the difference in temperature between the bathroom and other rooms as a prime motivator, but that hasn’t been widely accepted.
Another states that cats can be likened to toddlers, as they feel left out when they are alone. Felines typically prefer to claim the entire home as their territory, which means no room or corner of the house is off limits at any time of the day.
Others state since cats love routines, they could be following the daily ritual since they have sussed out that humans spend quite a bit of time in the bathroom. Since they know this, they figure they would rather use that opportunity and get some special time with us their owners.
It is a bit paradoxical that cats love to have privacy when they use the litter box but won’t give us a similar courtesy. Nevertheless, it is one of the quirks of owning a cat.
Leave a Reply Cancel reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.
Previous Post
How to Get a Cat to Sleep at Night
Next Post
Related Posts
When your cat nuzzles against your hand, it is normal for its nose to feel cool and wet because of the moisture in your palm. What about if the heat is dry, though? Is it…
How to Tell if Kittens are Male or Female?
Pet parents have a lot of choices to make before they bring a kitten to their home. One of the vital points to be checked is whether the kitten is male or female. There…
Cats are particularly prone to having ear mites. They experience discomfort and severe itching in their canals when ear mites are present. You may cure the disease before it causes consequences like infections or damaged…
As an Amazon associate and affiliate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.
Copyright at 2018. Purrpetrators. All Rights Reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program (and other potential affiliate networks), an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
| 12,861 |
One of the things of which I am most proud, is the Regency level of compassion. I cannot overstate this and this is indeed a focal point of our admissions department. Every now and then I receive an email from a family member commenting on one of my blogs with incredulity. They wish to know when I have time to come up with ideas for these postings and how it is that I can zero in on the smallest nuances which showcase the Regency level of care and commitment.
The answer to the latter is that it is all learned by example from our Regency Founder and President who has inculcated in his employees the drive towards achieving excellence without compromise. This philosophy of going the extra mile permeates everything we do here at Regency. When department heads bend down to pick up a piece of lint from the carpet, it is because this is what the President would do and what he therefore expects from every employee.
The answer to the former is typically when I run!
Sunday is often my day for a long run during which time I have the opportunity to ponder Regency Nursing highlights. Some friends of mine participated in a 55-100 mile bicycle race for charity in N.Y.C. yesterday. The race started at the Intrepid museum on the West Side highway and wound its way over the GWB and into Jersey. They were gone for many hours. These same guys typically run with me but opt to bike these days because cycling causes far less strain on the body than running which provides endless shock and abuse to exoskeletal system.
I don’t do biking and my schedule is far too erratic to devote the necessary prep time to biking. Running is far easier you simply lace up and hit the road.
So yesterday I wound up running alone, which helps with my Regency musings. I went out for a 17.5 mile run (a bit over two hours from start to finish) and I thought about the following illustration of the Regency level of compassion. It is a small vignette that speaks volumes.
Over the weekend, I was watching my kids play football on the front lawn with a bunch of kids from the neighborhood. Their ages were from about 6 to 11 years. I watched them designate two captains for each team, who then proceeded to select their desired players from the pool of kids. The kids were standing around quietly watching and waiting and wanting more than anything to be chosen at the top of the heap and not be humiliated by being chosen last.
I couldn’t help but reflect on my childhood years going through the same selection process during recess at school.
I can still taste how I hoped with every fiber of my being to be selected amongst the first in the group and my great fear of rejection and humiliation by the captains. My sense of self and my sense of pride was dependent upon their consideration and validation. To be sure, I was a pretty decent ball player but I didn’t always get picked first either and certainly not when captains where beholden to select ‘their own.’ The feeling of rejection was so overwhelming and parents cannot fully appreciate this dynamic with their kids at school. I also felt terrible for those kids with ‘two left hands’ who were invariably chosen last and as a pure afterthought.
The most difficult part, I think, was waiting to be chosen while others were chosen first.
I thought about the juxtaposition of this with a similar (unfortunate) reality which exists in many of the nursing homes which I have visited. Sometimes ill walk into a nursing home and see residents literally lined up in wheelchairs along the hallways. This always bothered me terribly. What are these people waiting for?!
Why are the made to sit like that with nobody attending to them?! Then I realized that in many instances they are waiting to be transported back to their floors and rooms from a meal or an activity. I will look at their faces and note the strain and humiliation of watching and waiting to be chosen as others are chosen ahead of them. This illustrates a terrible lack of compassion and empathy.
These are people not widgets!
Why don’t they dedicate a few additional aids to help with their resident transports and protect and preserve the dignity of their residents!
This gives me flashbacks to the days of my youth when I waited to be chosen for the game and similarly how these kids undoubtedly felt this past weekend on my front lawn.
At Regency Nursing facilities across New Jersey, you will NEVER witness residents lined up in the hallways waiting for an elusive aid to ‘choose them’ for transport. This doesn’t happen and never will.
This small but potent vignette to illustrate our compassion is something which I should never take for granted. It is a source of tremendous pride for me personally and it is appreciated by our families every single day!
When we say that at Regency, “Caring Comes to Life,” we mean business.
Posted in HealthCare News
Senior Rehab Centers Near CentraState Hospital, Freehold NJ →
← Unjust Criticism of Nursing Homes
Leave a Reply Cancel reply
Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.
Email Address
Message From The President
Regency Graduates!
Senior Care
Recent Posts
5 Ways Seniors Can Improve Physical and Mental Health. By: Regency Nursing Centers NJ
5-Star Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center Near Somerset, NJ
Archives Select Month October 2022 August 2022 March 2022 February 2022 November 2021 August 2021 July 2021 June 2021 May 2021 April 2021 March 2021 February 2021 January 2021 December 2020 November 2020 October 2020 September 2020 August 2020 July 2020 June 2020 May 2020 April 2020 March 2020 December 2019 November 2019 October 2019 September 2019 August 2019 July 2019 June 2019 May 2019 April 2019 March 2019 February 2019 January 2019 December 2018 November 2018 October 2018 September 2018 August 2018 July 2018 June 2018 May 2018 April 2018 March 2018 February 2018 January 2018 December 2017 November 2017 October 2017 September 2017 August 2017 July 2017 June 2017 May 2017 April 2017 February 2017 January 2017 December 2016 November 2016 October 2016 September 2016 August 2016 July 2016 June 2016 May 2016 April 2016 March 2016 February 2016 January 2016 December 2015 November 2015 October 2015 September 2015 August 2015 July 2015 June 2015 May 2015 April 2015 March 2015 February 2015 January 2015 December 2014 November 2014 October 2014 September 2014 August 2014 July 2014 June 2014 May 2014 April 2014 March 2014 February 2014 January 2014 December 2013 November 2013 October 2013 September 2013 August 2013 July 2013 June 2013 May 2013 April 2013 March 2013 February 2013 January 2013 December 2012 October 2012 September 2012 July 2012 June 2012 May 2012 April 2012
| 7,179 |
20 April: By any military standards, the large-scale offensive Israel launched on March 29 against seven Palestinian cities and their satellite villages and camps, is a victory and a resounding Palestinian defeat. In three weeks, their suicide offensive tapered off conspicuously.
The operation owes its success to four men: US President George W. Bush, Israeli prime minister Ariel Sharon, Israeli chief of staff Lt.-Gen Shaul Mofaz and his deputy and designated successor, Maj.-Gen Moshe Yaalon.
Credit for the Palestinian defeat belongs to Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat and his two leading sponsors, Saudi Crown Prince Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz and the European Union, notably its foreign affairs executive, Javier Solana. Both encouraged Arafat to believe he would beat Israel. So he toughed it out – and lost.
Palestinian institutions of government and security, smashed on the West bank, were left intact in the Gaza Strip.
The Battle of Jenin was the decider of this round, as DEBKAfile maintained at the fiercest moment of combat. Labeling this heroic battle – in which both sides fought valiantly – a massacre, is an oft-tried stratagem for transforming an Arab battlefield defeat into a diplomatic victory. This ruse may not work this time – thanks to the determination of the United States and its president not to let Israel be robbed of the fruits of this victory, but rather to make it a stepping stone for Washington’s next Middle East moves. Whatever the ups and downs in the relationship – and the recriminations heard from time to time – the American people and the Bush government’s backing for Israel and the Sharon government’s objectives is a fact of life to a degree never enjoyed by any previous Israeli government. It is predicated on the recognition that Yasser Arafat is an integral part of global terror.
After finishing with Arafat, Bush means to turn on the Arab leaders who espouse the use of suicides for what the White House has come to call homicidal attacks.
These developments have set the following trends in motion:
1. Now that Arafat is branded a terrorist, Washington had made it harder for Arab rulers to exploit the Palestinian problem as a standard pretext for their refusal to cultivate normal relations with Israel.
2. Faced with this dilemma, Crown Prince Abdullah sent his foreign minister Saud al-Faisal to Moscow on Sunday, April 18, to tell President Vladimir Putin that Riyadh badly needed an ally to offset American pressure and could either turn to Russia or the Iran-Iraq axis. Saud al Faisal came away from Moscow empty-handed.
3. A third world power, China, is bent on capitalizing on these shifting trends. President Jiang Zemin and prime minister Zhu Rongji are making the rounds of Arab and Gulf Emirate capitals and Iran.
20 April: According to DEBKAfile‘s Washington sources, the latest Bush team’s plan for Yasser Arafat and the Palestinian Authority is to reduce his jurisdiction to the Gaza Strip alone. Its basic assumption is that, as long as Arafat remains acknowledged leader of the Palestinian people, President Bush’s vision of a Palestinian state living side by side with Israel is impracticable.
Because of this plan, Ariel Sharon refrained from extending the IDF’s counter-terror offensive to the Gaza Strip towns of Gaza City, Beit Hanoun, Beit Lahiya, Khan Younes and Rafah – an action that puzzled many. Security forces were instructed only to keep the lid on Palestinian violence.
In Gaza, the Egyptians and Israelis can keep an eye on Arafat and insulate him from his power bases on the West Bank. In the West Bank itself, traditional local power groups in the cities, such as Hebron, Ramallah, and Nablus, will be invited to form a regional self-ruling authority. It will maintain token ties with the Gaza-based Palestinian Authority, but its mainline political links will be with Jordan which, jointly with Israel, will administer the territory’s remodeled security and intelligence services.
In keeping with this plan, Operation Defensive Shield systematically tore down the Palestinian Authority’s security and intelligence organs on the West Bank.
Amid the ruins of his administration, DEBKAfile‘s Palestinian sources report that Arafat never tires of telling followers that the victors in the current contest are not the Americans or the Israelis, but Arafat and the Palestinian people. He dismisses Washington’s proposal to move him to Gaza as an “American-Zionist conspiracy” that the Arab nation will smash to bits.
Since his confinement in Ramallah, Arafat no longer wants an international force to keep Israelis and Palestinians apart and shrugs off the Saudi peace initiative as a device to mask the secret willingness of Arab rulers to go along with the American-Zionist conspiracy. Above all, he wants to Egypt and Jordan – but also Saudi Arabia and Syria – out of Palestinian affairs.
This he hopes to achieve by stirring up violent popular riots in Arab cities in unison with a fresh wave of suicide and terrorist attacks against Israel, which he is hatching even now. When he refers to himself, it is no longer as Palestinian president, but as the pre-eminent pan-Arab leader whose suicide ideology is spreading round Arab lands.
Arafat pins his highest hopes on Saddam Hussein, who at the peak of popular unrest in the Arab states and the fresh anti-Israel suicide cycle, he expects to throw all Iraq’s might against Israel and Jordan.
21 April: Jordan’s King Abdullah II flew to Cairo Sunday, April 21 to confer with President Hosny Mubarak of Egypt on the current Middle East crisis and the rising ferment in their countries. The two leaders are in close coordination on the problem of Yasser Arafat and his Palestinian Authority.
With the US-Iraq showdown still ahead, most of DEBKAfile‘s Middle East sources agree that Jordan is liable to suffer greater damage than any other nation in the region in consequence of the US-Iraqi war. Already, the Hashemite Kingdom is gathering itself for the coming emergency, not waiting for the American action against Baghdad to begin.
Although no state of emergency has been formally declared, DEBKAfile‘s Middle East sources reveal that the capital, Amman, and Jordan’s other cities have all been placed under the control of the Jordanian armed forces and anti-aircraft positions arrayed at strategic points. Government offices, security and aid services, hospitals, water, electric and fuel utilities and economic institutions, including banks, have gone over to an emergency footing. In another sign of the times, the bulk of the kingdom’s reserves have been transferred to banks in Europe.
Our sources added that the king and his family have left Amman and established residence in the royal summer villa in Red Sea resort of Aqaba, guarded by Counter-Terrorism Battalion 71 (CTB-71), a Jordanian elite contingent made up the Rangers, paratroops and members of the Royal Guard. At the first sign of a tangible threat, all is prepared to whisk the king and his family out of harm’s way. They will be flown to a US airbase at Sharm el-Sheikh on the southern edge of Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, as the Egyptian president’s guest.
Most of the families of Jordan’s ruling elite have left the capital on the pretext of starting their summer vacation.
22 April: Israel’s month-long offensive to smash Palestinian terrorists strongholds in the West Bank has had a side effect worth noting: some ordinary Palestinians are no longer afraid to speak out and admit their distress – in front of television cameras.
In the Jabalya camp of the Gaza Strip, the local correspondent for Israel’s Channel 2, Seliman a-Shafi, gave Sunday night viewers a rare glimpse into the mind of a would-be suicide killer – a terrified adolescent aged 14 who freely told his story. Sent on a suicide mission against an Israeli military position – he did not say by which group – he set out with another boy in the dark of night. Halfway there, he stopped. “I didn’t want to die,” he said, tears rolling down his face. “I wanted to go back to my family.” He tried to persuade his friend to return home with him. The friend refused. The boy turned back alone and a few minutes later heard an explosion. Filled with fear, he ran hard until he reached the safety of home.
The boy’s family took part in the interview, led by his comfortably ample mother and surrounded by her large brood. “They take our children when they are too young to understand, to decide if they want to die. Why don’t they take the louts hanging round the markets? My boy is in shock. He can’t stop weeping. He doesn’t know whether he did right or wrong. We don’t let him out of the house without his father – in case he changes his mind again, or they catch him. We are all in shock.”
In a strong, assertive voice, she told the interviewer that she was not the only mother in this situation. The Gaza Strip is full of women keeping a tight hold on their young sons.
“All of us here are badly traumatized. But there is not a single psychologist in the whole territory to help us.”
The boy from Gaza was not by any means the youngest child to be marked out as a “martyr”. In Jenin, where the walls were plastered with large posters depicting dozens of dead youths, Israeli soldiers learned to beware of innocent-looking 10- and even 7-year olds with hidden bombs.
24 April: Saudi Arabia denies it has massed 8 brigades on its Jordanian border following secret intelligence reports of Israeli troop concentrations on its frontier with Jordan. (The Kingdom of Jordan is wedged between Saudi Arabia, Israel, Iraq and Syria.) Israel denied the Saudi claim Tuesday, April 23. The comeback was fast: “A responsible source” at the kingdom’s defense and aviation ministry stated that Saudi armed forces units are merely conducting “routine exercises” in the northwestern region, not beefing up their troop presence there.
The next step in this unfolding exchange of claims and denials was another report from Riyadh on Thursday, April 24, that Israeli jets were flying over Jordan’s border with the oil kingdom. Saudi air defenses were said to be under orders to shoot down any intruding craft.
DEBKAfile‘s military analysts have taken due note of Riyadh’s public admission that it fears an Israeli invasion of Jordan. Even more noteworthy is its timing: 48 hours before Crown Prince Abdullah bin Abdulaziz travels to President George W. Bush’s ranch in Crawford, Texas.
Here, then, is a transparent Saudi gambit, based on the cynical exploitation of the Israeli military bugbear. This gambit, in the view of our analysts, is employed by Riyadh –
First, to manufacture tension on the Saudi-Jordanian-Israel borders in order to back up Abdullah’s attempt to railroad Israel as the generator of military escalation in the region.
Second, as a device to cut short the Saudi crown prince’s American visit. Riyadh-Washington relations have never been so bad.
Riyadh, while attempting to fabricate a crisis around Jordan’s borders – and pin it on Israel – knows exactly what is really going on. The Israeli troop presence along the border of the Hashemite kingdom – which Israeli spokesmen consistently deny – is there with Amman’s consent for the sole purpose of deterring Saddam from invading Jordan. The Saudis are also perfectly aware that Iraq led the way in kicking off this round of military moves and that Israel countered.
They have taken steps to reassure Washington that they have no intention of joining Baghdad in an oil embargo. On Tuesday, April 23, the Saudi oil minister promised a group of American businessmen in Washington that his government would continue to keep oil prices stable and make up for any production shortfall developing on the world market.
Simultaneously, the Saudi investment authority in Riyadh finally, after long delays, approved a partnership transaction between American Chevron-Phillips and the Saudi industrial investment authority, entailing a $1 billion investment in a new petrochemical plant in the kingdom.
But these gestures can no longer paper over the deep rift between Riyadh and Washington, or the inevitability of any major war confrontation driving the two to opposing sides – with lasting effect on the region as well as world oil and financial markets.
Already the Saudis are operating on two levels – one reassuring Washington and other, laying their military cards out on the ground. The second is bound to cancel out the effect of the first.
Gantz travels to Washington as nuclear deal shapes up with Iran
Aug 24, 2022 @ 16:28
Iranian drills test UAV air defense and electronic warfare capacities
Aug 24, 2022 @ 16:14
Gantz: A Hizballah attack on Israel’s gas assets would spark war
Aug 22, 2022 @ 17:26
Gantz travels to Washington as nuclear deal shapes up with Iran
Aug 24, 2022 @ 16:28
Iranian drills test UAV air defense and electronic warfare capacities
Aug 24, 2022 @ 16:14
Gantz: A Hizballah attack on Israel’s gas assets would spark war
Aug 22, 2022 @ 17:26
Archive Select Month August 2022 (10) July 2022 (11) June 2022 (9) May 2022 (13) April 2022 (7) March 2022 (17) February 2022 (15) January 2022 (16) December 2021 (12) November 2021 (14) October 2021 (14) September 2021 (12) August 2021 (16) July 2021 (16) June 2021 (20) May 2021 (29) April 2021 (22) March 2021 (22) February 2021 (18) January 2021 (23) December 2020 (20) November 2020 (24) October 2020 (18) September 2020 (19) August 2020 (22) July 2020 (21) June 2020 (20) May 2020 (22) April 2020 (22) March 2020 (43) February 2020 (23) January 2020 (45) December 2019 (29) November 2019 (48) October 2019 (45) September 2019 (46) August 2019 (48) July 2019 (45) June 2019 (36) May 2019 (49) April 2019 (43) March 2019 (51) February 2019 (49) January 2019 (54) December 2018 (53) November 2018 (50) October 2018 (48) September 2018 (41) August 2018 (42) July 2018 (53) June 2018 (54) May 2018 (64) April 2018 (43) March 2018 (54) February 2018 (49) January 2018 (40) December 2017 (46) November 2017 (53) October 2017 (52) September 2017 (40) August 2017 (44) July 2017 (41) June 2017 (44) May 2017 (45) April 2017 (38) March 2017 (48) February 2017 (35) January 2017 (38) December 2016 (39) November 2016 (39) October 2016 (32) September 2016 (41) August 2016 (39) July 2016 (39) June 2016 (41) May 2016 (43) April 2016 (35) March 2016 (50) February 2016 (45) January 2016 (42) December 2015 (52) November 2015 (39) October 2015 (49) September 2015 (38) August 2015 (47) July 2015 (45) June 2015 (48) May 2015 (40) April 2015 (48) March 2015 (45) February 2015 (39) January 2015 (26) December 2014 (19) November 2014 (1) October 2014 (1) September 2014 (24) August 2014 (54) July 2014 (57) June 2014 (52) May 2014 (56) April 2014 (42) March 2014 (57) February 2014 (49) January 2014 (56) December 2013 (45) November 2013 (54) October 2013 (56) September 2013 (47) August 2013 (53) July 2013 (48) June 2013 (48) May 2013 (48) April 2013 (48) March 2013 (48) February 2013 (49) January 2013 (50) December 2012 (41) November 2012 (60) October 2012 (58) September 2012 (45) August 2012 (61) July 2012 (50) June 2012 (62) May 2012 (54) April 2012 (49) March 2012 (66) February 2012 (55) January 2012 (57) December 2011 (52) November 2011 (59) October 2011 (54) September 2011 (56) August 2011 (55) July 2011 (54) June 2011 (57) May 2011 (62) April 2011 (46) March 2011 (60) February 2011 (65) January 2011 (61) December 2010 (63) November 2010 (62) October 2010 (61) September 2010 (55) August 2010 (60) July 2010 (61) June 2010 (55) May 2010 (70) April 2010 (65) March 2010 (66) February 2010 (40) January 2010 (63) December 2009 (98) November 2009 (71) October 2009 (96) September 2009 (70) August 2009 (73) July 2009 (71) June 2009 (80) May 2009 (85) April 2009 (78) March 2009 (91) February 2009 (77) January 2009 (102) December 2008 (89) November 2008 (92) October 2008 (92) September 2008 (93) August 2008 (96) July 2008 (112) June 2008 (102) May 2008 (109) April 2008 (103) March 2008 (114) February 2008 (107) January 2008 (1762) December 2007 (76) November 2007 (104) October 2007 (101) September 2007 (89) August 2007 (93) July 2007 (99) June 2007 (113) May 2007 (127) April 2007 (148) March 2007 (108) February 2007 (106) January 2007 (106) December 2006 (122) November 2006 (126) October 2006 (124) September 2006 (134) August 2006 (195) July 2006 (252) June 2006 (204) May 2006 (149) April 2006 (154) March 2006 (173) February 2006 (156) January 2006 (189) December 2005 (151) November 2005 (150) October 2005 (79) September 2005 (50) August 2005 (16) July 2005 (12) June 2005 (15) May 2005 (7) April 2005 (15) March 2005 (16) February 2005 (17) January 2005 (16) December 2004 (13) November 2004 (17) October 2004 (16) September 2004 (12) August 2004 (17) July 2004 (12) June 2004 (15) May 2004 (18) April 2004 (17) March 2004 (22) February 2004 (19) January 2004 (20) December 2003 (20) November 2003 (20) October 2003 (11) September 2003 (19) August 2003 (18) July 2003 (17) June 2003 (16) May 2003 (17) April 2003 (22) March 2003 (20) February 2003 (13) January 2003 (18) December 2002 (20) November 2002 (23) October 2002 (19) September 2002 (24) August 2002 (17) July 2002 (20) June 2002 (23) May 2002 (26) April 2002 (29) March 2002 (33) February 2002 (26) January 2002 (36) December 2001 (32) November 2001 (29) October 2001 (30) September 2001 (8) August 2001 (1) July 2001 (1) June 2001 (7) May 2001 (14) March 2001 (2) February 2001 (4) January 2001 (3) December 2000 (6) November 2000 (3) October 2000 (1) September 2000 (3) August 2000 (1)
DEBKAfile was founded by a team of journalists in June 2000 as an independent Internet Web site, providing an intelligence and security news service read more...
| 18,156 |
This is the story of a woman named Rene Caisse. For more than 50 years until her death in 1978 at the age of 90, she treated thousands of cancer patients, most of them written off by doctors as terminally ill, with her own secret formula. She called it Essiac - Caisse spelt backwards - and she brewed the tea herself, alone in her kitchen. Her patients swore by her. Men and women who believed she cured them of cancer, told their friends and families, wrote letters to politicians, swore affidavits, testified before the Canadian Parliament and pleaded with Rene to supply them with more Essiac. Husbands and wives of patients who died, wrote Rene letters thanking her profoundly for making life easier - free of pain- and longer for their loved ones. Her funeral in Bracebridge, about 170 km north of Toronto, was attended by hundreds of people including former patients Rene had treated for terminal cancer as far back as the 1930's and who were still on their feet to bury her and tell their stories.
The controversy Essiac inspires raged in Canada since the 1920's every few years in the public glare of the press, involving the highest medical, legal and political circles in Canada. But always that controversy centered on this one woman in the tiny village of Bracebridge, pop 9,000 or so. Rene Caisse was an unlikely public figure. She was a skilled nurse who didn't crave attention or money. "I never had $100 I could call my own" she used to laugh. She didn't charge a fee. She accepted only voluntary contributions - fruits, vegetables or eggs as often as not - from those who could afford them, and she didn't turn away people who couldn't make any payment at all.
The mayor of Bracebridge, Jim Lang, gave me a friendly greeting, said he was happy that someone was looking into the story of Rene Caisse, and got right to the point: She cured people that were given up on by doctors - totally given up on. They said, "You're going to die and there is nothing we can do about it. And then they went to Rene and 20 years later they were still walking. I know that for a fact because I knew Rene for probably 25 years."
She refused to reveal the formula to the Canadian government, the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Centre in New York - the world's largest private cancer research centre - and the National Cancer Institute, just to name some of the institutions that wanted the formula at one time or another. She wouldn't give them the formula until they would admit that Essiac had merit as a treatment for cancer. They refused to admit any merit until she gave them the formula. There were legitimate arguments made on both sides. The result was a tragic standoff.
This book tells the incredible story of Rene Caisse and her lifetime battle to bring forth Essiac, and reveals for the first time publicly how to acquire the formula to prepare Essiac in the privacy of your own home.
"The results we obtained with thousands of patients of various races, sexes and ages, with all types of cancer, definitely prove Essiac to be a cure for cancer. All studies done in four laboratories in the United States and one more in Canada fortify this claim."
Rene Caisse was a nurse living in Canada who for a period of almost sixty years treated hundreds of people with an herbal remedy she called Essiac. She discovered this remedy through a patient in the hospital where she worked who had been cured of cancer. The patient had used an herbal remedy given her by an Ojibway herbalist.
Rene left the hospital in 1922 at age 33, and went to Bracebridge, Ontario, Canada where she began administering Essiac to all who came to her. The majority of those whom she treated came on referral with letters from their physicians certifying they had incurable or terminal forms of cancer and that they had been given up by the medical profession as untreatable.
Rene began gathering the plants and preparing the herbal remedy herself in her own kitchen, in a building lent her for her patients. She administered Essiac both orally and by injection. In cases where there was severe damage to life support organs, her patients died --- but they lived far longer than the medical profession had predicted, and, more significantly, they lived free of pain. Still others, listed as hopeless and terminal, but without severe damage to life support organs, were cured and lived 35-45 years (many are still living).
So startling was the effectiveness of this simple herbal remedy, it could not be ignored, and the Canadian Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Parliament became involved. Friends, former patients, and grateful families petitioned Canadian officialdom for Rene Caisse's right to administer the remedy to anyone who asked for it without the threat of interference from authorities. Fifty-five thousand signatures were collected on the petition. In 1938, Essiac came within three votes of being legalized by the Ontario government as a remedy for terminal cancer patients.
The story of Rene Caisse, her life, her work, and the effectiveness of the remedy she named Essiac, is told in a book Sun Bear received Calling of an Angel by Dr Gary L. Glum of Los Angeles. After reading the book and finding it to be informative, well documented and moving, I decided to interview Dr Glum. I verified the basic information in this book through Canadian sources, one an herbalist who knows of Rene Caisse and her work and who has personally made and successfully used Essiac.
As I completed my second conversation with Dr Glum, he said, "You're opening a Pandora's Box here, publishing this interview about Essiac." I disagreed, but began thinking about Pandora's "box". In the story of Pandora most well-known today, she is sent to the gods to curse humanity for offending them.
Pandora is given a "box" or container with instructions not to open it, which the gods know she will disobey. When Pandora does open the box, famine, war, plague, disease, pestilence --- all the ills of humanity --- are released. Then at the last comes hope, an antidote to despair.
But according to Barbara Walker's Encyclopedia, Pandora --- whose name means "all giving" was originally an image for Mother Earth. She had, not a box, but a honey vase like the Cornucopia from which flowed all life and creativity, as well as death and rebirth --- Earth's gifts to her children. Because we are natural beings in a natural world, it seems appropriate that a simple remedy composed of four common herbs, gifts of Earth, would suggest so much promise for us today.
Elisabeth Robinson: To begin with, Dr Glum, can you tell us a little about how you became interested in the story you tell in Calling of an Angel, and how you learned about Rene Caisse and her work?
Dr Gary Glum: A personal friend of mine knew this woman, whose name I have promised not to reveal, who was living in Detroit, Michigan. Twenty years ago she had been diagnosed with cervical cancer in a Detroit hospital; where she was eventually given up as incurable and terminal. She was given about ten days to live.
She convinced her husband to make a trip to Bracebridge, Canada where she went to see Rene Caisse. She was treated with the herbal remedy developed by Rene --- Essiac --- and in a short time she didn't have a cancer cell in her body. So after that time this woman began dedicating her life to disseminating information about Essiac in the United States. When I met her, she was the only person in possession of the original herbal formula who would relinquish it. I got the formula for Essiac from her.
That's how it began. When I started, all I had was a piece of paper. I thought, what am I going to do with this? I decided, the best way to go would be to find the information behind Essiac and put it in book form and bring it to the world.
I learned about Rene Caisse from Mary McPherson who was a very close personal friend of Rene's, not only a friend but also a patient. Mary's mother and her husband were also patients. They were all treated for cancer and cured by Rene.
Mary worked with Rene beginning in the 1930's and she had in her possession all the documents that had to do with Essiac over the 40 years Rene administered it. All the documents Rene had were destroyed by the Canadian Ministry of Health & Welfare at the time of her death in 1978. They burned all that information in fifty five gallon drums behind her home.
ER: Why?
GG: Because they don't want this information in the hands of the public or the press or anybody else. They indeed found out what Essiac was in 1937. The Royal Cancer Commission hearings had then come to the same conclusions that Rene had - that Essiac was a cure for cancer.
ER: What is Essiac exactly?
GG: Essiac is a non-toxic herbal cure for cancer that's been in use with us since 1922. It's a formula made from four very common herbs.
ER: I would guess that virtually every person in the U.S. today has been touched by cancer, either personally or through a loved one. If this information is true, and the effectiveness of this remedy is actually medically documented, many lives could be saved. Why do you think the information on Essiac is not more widely known?
GG: The information is withheld because cancer is the second largest revenue producing business in the world, next to the petrochemical business. Money and power suppress this truth.
No-one has ever sought to cure cancer - only control it. I mean, the research institutes, federal governments, pharmaceutical companies, anybody that has a vested interest in the health care of cancer, including the American Cancer Society, any of these stalled benefactors to those who have contracted the disease - all of these institutes are involved in the money and power around cancer.
These institutions have influence over government and regulatory agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration.. The FDA recommends only allopathic treatments for cancer and other life threatening diseases. It does not approve nor make legal alternative treatments of any kind.
ER: You're saying the Essiac is in a position similar to, for example, laetril.
GG: Yes, the only reason laetril was stopped - and it couldn't be stopped any other way - was through the insurance companies. The insurance companies sent down a directive to all allopathic physicians stating that they could not cover them in any malpractice suit in the event they were treating people with any substance not approved by the Food and Drug Administration.
ER: In your book you mention that the Brusch Clinic in Massachusetts worked with Rene Caisse and with Essiac, during the 1960s. Is this clinic still doing research with Essiac?
GG: Dr Charles A Brusch is not practicing at this time. He was a personal physician to the late President John F Kennedy. Dr. Brusch worked with Rene Caisse from 1959 to 1962. He worked with thousands of cancer patients. He also worked with the Presidential Cancer Commission, with others like Dr Armand Hammer, the American Cancer Society, and the National Cancer Institute.
Dr Brusch presented his findings after ten years of research. He had come to the conclusion that "Essiac is a cure for cancer, period." All studies done at laboratories in the United States and Canada support this conclusion.
Whereupon the Federal Government issued a gag order and said, "You've got one of two choices, either you keep quiet about this or we'll haul you off to military prison and you'll never be heard of again," so we never heard another word out of him.
Brusch's Essiac patients included Ted Kennedy's son who had a sarcoma in his leg, and who had his leg amputated. He was being treated at the time by the Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, Massachusetts. Dr. Farber didn't know how to save him, because no-one had ever lived with this type of sarcoma. So what he did was go to Dr. Brusch and say, how are we going to save Ted Kennedy's son? And Dr. Brusch made the suggestion to put him on Essiac, and after they did, he didn't have a cancer cell in his body. But all this information has been hidden from the public.
ER: Why?
GG: As I said, money and power.
ER: Do you know whether the remedy is being used or tested anywhere today in the U.S. or Canada?
GG: Right now Essiac is being used in every state in the United States, it's throughout Canada and into Mexico, its in Australia, Europe, Asia, and, recently, also in Africa. And the message of Essiac is beginning to make it's way worldwide. But it's still known on a very limited basis.
Of course now you also have the problem of herbal distributing companies throughout the world that are substituting ...low dock and curly dock for sheep's sorrel, which is one of the crucial ingredients in Essiac.
The sheep's sorrel is the herbal ingredient in Essiac that was found to be responsible for the destruction of cancer cells in the body, or their amalgamation where ...astasized cancer cells actually return to the original tumor site.
That research was done by Dr Chester ....ck at Sloan-Kettering in New York for over a three year period. But when they gathered that information, they withheld it from the general public - yet they gave it to the Canadian Ministry of Health and Welfare. The Canadian government then immediately banned the herb for sale and distribution.
ER: Banned a common weed like sheep's sorrel?
GG: Yes, sheep's sorrel is just a common weed that grows in abundance throughout North America. Just a common weed. (Note: After this interview was completed, Wildfire learned from an herbalist in Canada that the Canadian government has recently banned St John's Wort, also a common weed frequently used by herbalists.)
ER: Well, it seems banning sheep's sorrel would not be very effective if you could identify it for yourself.
GG: Yes, it's just a question of identifying the plant and then harvesting it correctly and drying it properly and then putting it together with the other herbs.
Rene would harvest the sheep's sorrel -Rumex acetosella- when it was four to six inches high. She cut it back and would let it grow up again, and she'd cut it back again. She would do that about three times and then she would let it go to seed. It will grow to about 14 or 18 inches.
She would take the herb cuttings home and lay them out at room temperature to dry them. She let the cuttings sit there for three or four days before she'd begin turning the herbs. Then she'd turn them every two days until they were properly dry, which took about ten days to two weeks. It takes about a bushel of harvested sheep's sorrel to produce one pound of the dried powdered herb which is used in the formula.
ER: Do you have the formula? It's not in your book. You do mention a video in the book.
GG: Yes I have it. Anyone can get it from me, free of charge. We don't sell the video anymore. We simply mail the formula to anyone who asks for it.
ER: Sun Bear told me you had problems getting the book published and distributed. What kind of problems?
GG: There wasn't a publishing company that would publish it. No one wanted to run the risk of a wrongful death suit. So I published the book myself. And as soon as I did, the IRS came in and slapped about a half a million dollars in tax liens against me and said, "You know this has got nothing to do with taxes. It's all about cancer." They actually started hauling the pallets of books out of my medical practice offices and confiscating them. I also had thousands of books that were confiscated by the Canadian government at customs. I have never received any of those books back. The only ones I have now are hidden in storage facilities.
ER: That's incredible - why do you think they are so interested in keeping this book out of circulation?
GG: Money and power, as I've said. Cancer is the largest revenue producing business in the world next to the petrochemical business. In Canada the book is being held up by the Ministry of Health & Welfare because they say it is "advertising."
ER: Advertising what? The video you don't sell any more?
ER: Can you explain what you mean by the publishers fearing a wrongful death suit?
GG: What you're dealing with is giving people a formula that they can make and use in the privacy of their own homes without the approval of the AMA or FDA or anybody else. If an attorney or any family member should decide, for whatever reason, that the reason someone expired was from the use of Essiac, then you are putting yourself up for a wrongful death suit. The contention is that if it isn't approved by the Food and Drug Administration, there's no legality in using it when you're dealing with a life threatening disease.
When Rene Caisse set up her clinical trials in Canada to test Essiac, she was given government permission to treat terminally ill cancer patients who had been given up for hopeless by the medical profession. That was one criteria. Secondly, this was all to be certified by a pathology report. And third, she could not charge anything for her services. She agreed to all these criteria and proceeded to treat people with Essiac. Many she treated were still here 35 years later to bury her when she died at age 90.
The best that anyone can do is try to disseminate this information to the public and let people make their own choices. That's all you can do. And just say, look, if you feel that Essiac has value in your life and the lives of your loved ones, you have the right to use it in the privacy of your own home and without anyone's approval.
You know, in 1937 Essiac came within three votes of being legalized as a treatment for cancer. People had garnered over fiftyfive thousand signatures on a petition to allow Rene to continue to use Essiac. The only reason the vote fell short, she found out years later, was that the College of Physicians and Surgeons met and said to the Parliament, if you don't respond to the political pressure and legalize Essiac, then we'll take a sincere look and give this woman a fair hearing. So Parliament didn't legalize Essiac.
So following the Royal Cancer Commission hearings Rene was allowed to continue her practice but only within the criteria I mentioned before, which allowed the Ministry of Health & Welfare to restrict peoples access to Essiac treatments.
I know this because I have a copy of the hearing transcripts which I got from Mary McPherson, which is some of the information that didn't get burned when Rene died.
ER: You mentioned earlier. What exactly was burned?
GG: All her research for that 40 year period of time. All the names, all her clinical data that she had collected. All her files.
ER: What about the records of the Brusch Clinic? It seems these would be convincing evidence.
GG: As far as I know all that material has been destroyed also. I knew that Rene had worked with Dr Brusch from 1959 to 1962, so I went to Dr Brusch's home in Cambridge, Massachusetts whereupon he delivered me the only materials he had left in his files on Essiac. One of those files was his own personal file where he had treated and cured his own cancer with Essiac. I have his personal records.
All the information in my book is verified by a sheet of paper with a signature and date on it, and those sheets and signatures are all originals. They are not copies.
ER: Have you had any personal experiences with Essiac?
GG: Yes, I can give you an example. He was a twelve year old boy named Toby Wood. He had acute lymphoblastic, which is one of the most virulent of all leukemias.
He had been on chemotherapy for four years and radiation for three. His mother's only hope in life was to find a cure for him. She went everywhere. She tried every alternative treatment.
Her last stop was Dr Alvados in Athens, Greece where her son's white blood cell count was 186,000. He had no red blood cells or platelets. He was hemorrhaging to death. So they transfused Toby in Greece, and put him on a plane to Alaska where he was given five days to live.
I met his mother's sister in Los Angeles while I was putting the book together and she asked if there was any credibility here. We sat down and talked. She then borrowed the money for a flight to Anchorage, and delivered a bottle of Essiac. By the time she got there Toby had three days to live. He was in a state of complete deterioration. He was given the Essiac and all the hemorrhaging stopped within 24 hours. Within three months all his blood tests were normal. I arrived in Alaska later that year and met him.
Toby Wood did die, and we finally found a pathologist who would do an exhaustive autopsy. We knew that he didn't have leukemia anymore. We wanted to find out the cause of death. It took four months to get the report back. The pathologist autopsied the brain, testicles, and all life support organs, including the bone marrow. No blast cells were found in any life support organ. There were a few stray cells in the testicles and the brain. Cause of death was damage to the myocardial sac of the heart, a result of the chemotherapy.
This was the first report anywhere in medical history of anyone surviving lymphoblastic leukemia. That information was taken to AP and UPI but they said it was not newsworthy.
Our information on Essiac has been sent around the world twice through Publishers Weekly magazine in a huge two page ad. We received no responses at all from any publishing company worldwide, no producers, no directors throughout the United States, no talk show programs, none of that. We can't access the media. In fact we talked to Philip Scheffler, producer of 60 Minutes. He read the book and we called him to ask him what he was going to do about it. He said, nothing. I said all the information in the book is verifiable. In other words it's the truth. I said if you're 60 minutes why don't you expose me and Essiac as a fraud. He said. nope, can't do it.
We took it to Joe Donally who is the executive news producer for ABC in New York. We said why not give it to Peter Jennings, Geraldo Rivera, Ted Koppel, one of those? He said, nope. We asked why not? He said because his phone lines would be invaded with 65,000 phone calls. We said, how sympathetic do you think a parent whose child is dying from leukemia would be to your 65,000 phone calls. He went on to say he's got a mortgage on his house and he's looking forward to retirement.
So that's the problem. No one wants this information disseminated. And it's not just the media, either. It includes the herbal companies who are now substituting curly dock for sheep's sorrel. So people are getting the wrong ingredients for Essiac, not to mention the five or six other formulas that are circulating which are different from the one I send out. These false formulas are being disseminated. There is a disinformation campaign going on here, somehow.
ER: Has this disinformation campaign started just since your book has been out?
GG: Previous to my book, none of this information was available to the general public at all. The public had no information outside a few assorted articles. Certainly the Essiac formula was not available to the general public at all. All that information was held by the Resperin Corporation in Toronto, Canada, which supposedly is a private institution.
However, they work hand in glove with the Canadian Ministry of Health & Welfare, who works directly with the American Food and Drug Administration and the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, Maryland. The Essiac formula was never given to anyone by Resperin.
GG: They've done research since 1978 when the formula was relinquished to them by Rene for the purchase price of one dollar. As soon as they got the formula, they told Rene they had no further use for her. She had been under the distinct impression from the Ministry of Health & Welfare and the Resperin Corporation that she was to lead research activities that they so desperately wanted to put together.
But Rene had already done clinical trials. She had names and records. She thought the Resperin Corporation was politically powerful and had money enough to get Essiac into the public sector without compromising her values. Then she found out the Corporation was working closely with the government and administration and the Ministry of Health & Welfare.
So now people who were terminally ill given up as hopeless had to go through a federal bureaucratic maze to get the remedy. By then, for most of these people, it was too late. But even when people were cured, that information was not released to the public.
Resperin ran research tests on Essiac. One test was done in Northern Canada and the documents were falsified. For example, one man was listed as dead who a few months later knocked on Rene's door and said, "You know I want to thank you for the Essiac and for being part of this experimental program. Yet he was listed as dead in the research findings.
ER: It's beginning to seem amazing to me that any information at all about this remedy has survived the "conspiracy of silence" or outright destruction of records and so on.
GG: The only reason Essiac is known to the public is by word of mouth and because Essiac is what it is. What will keep Essiac known is it's effectiveness. Rene said it years ago. She said, look, if Essiac doesn't have any merit let me put it out there. If it doesn't have any merit it will kill itself. Of course she knew full well if people had the correct herbs, the remedy would stand on its own.. And that is exactly what Essiac has done over this period of time that we've been disseminating the information.
Rene also found that Essiac was a strong preventative. These findings were substantiated by Dr Albert Schatz at Temple University who discovered the cure for tuberculosis.
Rene also found that Essiac would normalise the thyroid gland. My wife was on two grains of thyroid since the sixth grade. After I met her, she started taking Essiac, and she hasn't taken a grain of thyroid since.
Rene also found that Essiac would heal stomach ulcers within three to four weeks. She felt that ulcers were a precursor to cancer.
Sir Frederick Banting, the co-discoverer of insulin, wanted to work with Rene. She had clinical cases where a person on insulin discontinued it with the Essiac, since no one knew how Essiac interacted with the insulin. Apparently Essiac regulated the pancreas in cases of diabetes mellitus. So these people then came insulin free.
Another thing I've found with Essiac is that I've experienced almost perfect health. As you get older you think, well, I'm forty now, these things happen. Well, these things don't have to happen. Since I've taken Essiac, I've experienced almost perfect health. It's amazing. I sleep like a baby, have all kinds of energy, and no sickness, not even a cold or the flu.
I also worked with the AIDS Project Los Angeles through their Long Beach and San Pedro districts. They had sent 179 patients home to die. They all had pneumocystis carinii and histoplasmosis. Their weight was down to about 100 pounds. Their T-4 cell counts were less that ten. The Project gave me five of these patients. I took them off the AZT and the DDI and put them on Essiac three times a day. Those are the only ones alive today. The other 174 are dead.
ER: That is incredible - but what kind of lives are they leading today?
GG: They're exercising three times a day, eating three meals a day. Their weight is back to normal. For all intents and purposes you wouldn't know they had a sick day in their lives. But this information is not being disseminated either, because AIDS is on the horizon as another big moneymaker. The chairman of the AIDS Project in Los Angeles makes over $100,000 a year.
Even the alternative health care professionals are out there to control, not to cure. Alternative medical practice is just as mercenary and deceptive as the allopathic. No one wants a cure for cancer or AIDS.
The alternative people are also in it for the money. What you're finding with Essiac is that it is not even allowed into the arenas of the alternative health care. So really what you've got out here is people continually perpetrating these lies against mankind. For money. For money and power. It's that simple.
Really once you think about it, the only reason we don't have solar power is that no one's figured out a way to sell Exxon the sun. It's true. If they could, you'd have solar power. You know you'd have it.
ER: So, in your own personal experience, this herbal remedy works to "cure" cancer, thyroid conditions, diabetes, AIDS, ulcers...
GG: It also cures the common cold. Essiac elevates the immune system. I've been taking one ounce a day for seven years, and in seven years I haven't had a cold, flu or virus.
GG: Yes. Although Rene did alter it. She altered it with Turkish Rhubarb root -rheum palmatum . Turkish rhubarb root has a 5,000 year history. It actually came up from India into China and then was taken by the British.
ER: Turkish rhubarb root is not native to this country, nor available here. Herbs from foreign countries are fumigated and irradiated, so is it a good idea to use the Turkish rhubarb root?
GG: You can substitute ordinary rhubarb root. The other two ingredients are burdock root -arctium lappa - and the inner bark of the slippery elm -ulmus fulva . They are easy to obtain, usually. Sheep's sorrel -rumex acetosella is what destroys the cancer cells. The other three herbs are blood purifiers.
Essiac elevates the enzyme system and gives all cancer patients and all AIDS patients the enzymes that have been destroyed. Essiac elevates the enzyme system; it elevates the hormone system, which elevates the immune system, so the body can cure it's own disease.
ER: What about quantities?
GG: Even its worst enemy could never lay claim that Essiac had any deleterious side effects whatever. You can take Essiac safely, through all the clinical trials that have been done, up to six ounces a day. That's two ounces in the evening, two at midday and two in the morning. That's a high dosage. Rene had the correct herbs and she used as little as one ounce a week.
But look at the difference between then and now. The food didn't have carcinogens in it, and neither did the water, nor the air. So what have we done? We've killed the air, killed the water, killed the food. So what's left?
Nationwide, in the water we drink, over 2,100 organic and inorganic chemicals have been identified, and 156 of them are pure carcinogens. Of those, if you have a tumor, 26 are tumor promoting , so they make the tumor larger. But of course this information is not available to the public either. Those figures are from tests conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency which have never been distributed to the public.
ER: How did you get the information?
GG: From a Ralph Nader organization out of Washington DC. The media has not disseminated this information. Another problem is that very few people read books any more. We can only hope they'll read Calling of an Angel . Of course the problem right now is people getting the right herbs.
ER: Anything you'd like to add before we close this interview?
GG: I would like to say that I didn't do all this research because I feel I have a responsibility to other people. I did it because I have a responsibility to myself. I know that I've done all I can do to disseminate this information to the people.
I was the first person to release this information to the public and say, here it is, here's the formula, here's the story. So now the story is out there and look what is happening - its getting killed through a disinformation campaign. I mean Harvard, Temple, Tufts, Northwestern University, Chicago - all these institutions have tested Essiac with the right stuff, and they all came to the same conclusions as Rene Caisse. But all that information has been buried.
ER: Gary, it's been very interesting to speak with you.
GG: It's been a pleasure. You're opening a Pandora's Box, you know, publishing this interview.
ER: I think you're the one who's done that. Would you tell people how to get your book and the information on Essiac?
GG: They simply call me in California at 310-271-9931. The book is $35.00. The formula is free.
Dr Gary L. Glum, until two years ago, was a chiropractor with offices in Los Angeles California. His clients included well known professional athletic teams and Olympic teams.
In 1988 Dr Glum published Calling of an Angel, the story of Rene Caisse and Essiac. Two years ago he closed his practice and now devotes his time to investigative writing.
Original appeared in Wildfire Magazine - Vol 6 No 1 PO Box 9167, Spokane WA 99209. Subscription - $15 per year. Reprinted with permission.
Two books by Dr Gary Glum, Calling of an Angel and an expose on AIDS are now on Internet;
The official formula is provided below. Please note that Essiac is not distributed or sold through this site or through East West Network. For distributors, please check Essiac in Search Engines and verify correct ingredients.
MESSAGE: The Essiac ingredients are available in proper quantities.
Turkish Rhubarb Root, Pwd
They hold first 2 gall batch
You will need:
8 oz Measuring cup of Essiac from mixed materials
Bring to a hard boil (Takes about 30 minutes) The lid is on all the time (Except while stirring). Put in Essiac Herbs - Stir - Boil. Boil hard for 10 mins (Adjust flame as needed). Turn off stove - let sit for 6 hours. After 6 hours stir thoroughly, let sit for 6 more hours. After the last 6 hours, turn heat on and bring to boil. At boiling point turn off the heat, strain into pot #2 - Clean pot #1 - strain back into pot #1. Immediately pour into bottles and put the caps on (12 x 16 oz bottles). Must be bottled hot. Store in a dark cabinet.
Take Four Tablespoons of distilled water. Heat the water. To the heated water add Four Tablespoons (2 oz) ESSIAC. Mix and drink. To be taken at bedtime on an empty stomach. At least 2 hours after eating. Can be taken in the morning on an empty stomach. If taken in the morning do not eat for at least 2 hours after taking.
| 34,959 |
Alumni Name: Leonie Walderich Pronouns: she/her Dates Served: 07/26-12/05; 04/05-08/29 What roles was Leonie in: crew member pacific west; ACE EPIC wildlife technician (USFS) Location: South Lake Tahoe, Ridgecrest; Tahoe National Forest – American River Ranger...
by ACE'r | Nov 9, 2021 | ACE Alumni, ACE Main Blog, Alumni Ambassador, Crew - Pacific West, Member Entries, Professional Development
Alumni Name: Amanda Haddock Pronouns: She/Her Dates Served: Feb-May 2018 What role(s) was Amanda in: Crew Member Location: Dulzura, CA Q: What were you doing before ACE? A: Before ACE I was in college working towards a BS in geology. I decided to transfer...
National Scenic Trails | Then and Now
by ACE'r | Aug 20, 2021 | ACE Main Blog, Crew - Pacific West, Local Agencies, Project Spotlight, USFS
Written By : Matt Rump Did you know that ACE works on National Scenic Trails? On October 2nd, 1968 the National Trails System Act became law. This included the designation of the Appalachian Trail and Pacific Crest Trail as the first National Scenic Trails (NSTs). Now...
Peace Corps to ACE | Joel Baker
by Linnea McCarty | Mar 5, 2021 | ACE Main Blog, BLM, Corps to Career, Crew - Pacific West, Crew - Southwest, EPIC, IamACE, Leaders in Conservation, My ACE Journey, NPS, Professional Development
Pronouns: He /Him/His Dates served with Peace Corps: 2006-2007, 2011-2012 Location(s) served with Peace Corps: Guinea, West Africa Role in Peace Corps: Agroforestry Extension Agent , Peace Corps Response – Forestry Date Joined ACE: Aug 2007 Role(s) In...
by Linnea McCarty | Mar 5, 2021 | ACE Main Blog, Crew - Pacific West, IamACE, Professional Development, Volunteer & Community Events
Pronouns: he/him Dates served with Peace Corps: 2007 – 2009 Location(s) served with Peace Corps: Belize, Santa Martha Village Role in Peace Corps: Micro Enterprise and Organizational Development Volunteer Date Joined ACE: 5/2010 Role(s) In ACE:...
by ACE'r | Apr 28, 2020 | ACE Main Blog, ACE Video Archive, Crew - Pacific West, IamACE
« Older Entries
Recent Posts
CRDIP | Finds From an Archaeological Site and What They Used To Be
Deja Charles & Evan Williams: NPS Academy March Experience (Day 0 to Day 5)
Building community through environmental stewardship.
National Headquarters:
2900 N. Fort Valley Rd.
Terms of Service
Locations
Ronald Bethea was a corps member at the SEN branch in 2019 after finishing his undergraduate studies in Environmental Studies. After completing his term and participating in Covid shenanigans. He returned as a Crew Leader 8 months later for ACE Southeast, focusing on restoration projects and forestry. After almost 2 years of Crew leading he made the step up to Project Manager for the Southeast division of ACE. Hobbies including cooking, fishing, kickbacks and comedy shows. Aiming for being a part of the USFWS service one day.
Hailing from the cornfields of Illinois, Jennifer started the path to ACE after accepting a position as Corps Member in Flagstaff, AZ. She had graduated with B.S. for wildlife biology in Indiana before she headed west in 2017. From 2017-2020, Jennifer spent her time as Corps Member on and off in Flagstaff and in Asheville, NC, before accepting a position as Crew Leader for the Asheville branch of ACE. She enjoyed all her time in the field both in Flagstaff and in Asheville before accepting a new role as a Logistics Coordinator. She enjoys animals, playing most Pokemon games, causal hikes, and crosscutting.
Amanda joined ACE as a crew member in March 2021 after finishing up her undergrad in chemistry and environmental studies. She quickly realized that she enjoys the hands-on restoration process much more than research in a lab, and decided to stay with ACE and learn more about conservation by working as an ACE Crew Leader. She is originally from Michigan, but has fallen in love with the mountains since joining the ACE Eastern branch, probably in part because she likes to spend her free time hiking and rock climbing.
Bio coming soon.
Sarah Miggins is the Deputy Director for the California State Parks’ Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division (OHMVRD). The OHMVR Division works to ensure quality recreational opportunities remain available for future generations by providing education, conservation, and enforcement efforts that balance OHV recreation impacts with programs that conserve and protect cultural and natural resources.
Miggins has been on a steady career path from volunteer service to executive level leadership positions over the last 30 years. Before her current position, she served as Chief of Staff for American Conservation Experience (ACE). Prior to ACE, she held numerous positions based in California; including Audubon California, Southern California Mountains Foundation, LA Conservation Corps and the Inland Empire Economic Partnership. Miggins holds a Master of Management from the University of Redlands and a Baccalaureate of Science in Geography and Environmental Studies from Ohio University.
She enjoys spending time with her two hunting dogs (that don’t hunt!), Ruger and Reese, exploring the trails of Northern California and has recently discovered that she really enjoys painting dog portraits.
Leanne brings diverse marketing, communications and stakeholder engagement experience to her role with ACE. Her background includes spearheading marketing, public relations, and fundraising for nonprofit agencies and serving as a freelance digital marketer supporting a range of clients. She is passionate about environmental and wildlife conservation and is proud to be a part of ACE and supporting its work to protect America’s public lands for the benefit of generations to come. Leanne lives in the foothills of Boulder County, CO with her husband, daughter, and three spoiled dogs where they enjoy the rural setting and exploring the hiking trails near their home.
Eleanor holds a PhD in U.S. History from the University of Washington and a Masters in Public History from Loyola University Chicago. Her research and writing examine the intersections of public lands policy and economic change in post-World War II America. She has fifteen years of experience working in conservation, historic preservation, and public history, and has taught courses on U.S. environmental history and the development of the National Park System. When she isn’t working, Eleanor spends time with her family visiting nature centers, libraries, local parks, and playgrounds.
Luke Bailey hails originally from West Tisbury, MA and comes to ACE from a background in science education and environmental research. A graduate of Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service, he worked previously in D.C. for international programs which investigated sustainability in the timber trade, and land tenure in tropical countries. He is also a credentialed teacher and spent the past six years working in the classroom. An avid traveler, Luke has lived in France and Senegal and visited over 30 other countries. He lives in Sacramento with his wife, and loves hiking in the High Sierras, reading science fiction, and cultivating succulents.
Olivia was born and raised in Arizona, graduating from Northern Arizona University in 2018. She is joining ACE and returning to Flagstaff after spending the last 4 years in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she served as an AmeriCorps VISTA! Since her AmeriCorps year, she has worked primarily for education non-profits and in Human Resources.
Olivia is excited to be working with ACE because she is passionate about conservation and direct service. She hopes to open more opportunities to diverse populations interested in conservation and exploration.
Outside of work, Olivia enjoys bike rides, eating food, traveling, and spending time with her cat, Dwayne.
Elizabeth grew up in a small town in southeastern Michigan exploring the many nearby woods, creeks, rivers and lakes. Her love and respect for the natural world grew and blossomed into a lifelong commitment to environmental advocacy and activism. She moved to Flagstaff in 1997 to raise her children and enjoy the abundant mountains, canyons and wild places of the Colorado Plateau. She’s excited about her role providing support to the people of ACE. Elizabeth is especially proud to be part of an organization that has a profound impact and the ability to make a difference by providing valuable environmental service opportunities for so many across the country. When not working she can be found hiking and biking with her partner Chris, fostering puppies and kittens, painting, drawing, making yummy meals, or sitting with a good book on her patio while birds socialize at her feeders.
Emily (she/her) is originally from Sarasota, FL but moved to Western NC in 2017 where she attended Warren Wilson College. She earned a BA in Environmental Studies, concentrating in environmental policy & economics. She has previously worked for the WNC Nature Center in the education department, and most recently has served as a front country campground ranger in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. While working for NPS she discovered her love for connecting folks to conservation work and the outdoors, which she is excited to continue doing through work with ACE. In her free time you can find her hiking, biking, and fishing all around Southern Appalachia.
Born and raised in Texas. Michael completed his first tour with ACE in 2016 when he finished a 6 month term at the Asheville branch. Leaving with a new appreciation of conservation and an interest in nonprofits, Michael went on to get his Masters of Public Administration in 2018. He returned to ACE in 2021 as a Crew Leader serving in Asheville and Flagstaff. Michael most recently moved into a Member Management role in 2022. Outside of the office, Michael enjoys music, college football, the beach, and breakfast tacos.
Elyse comes to ACE with a background in environmental science, outdoor education, and community organizing. With a passion for people and the outdoors, Elyse joined ACE excited to connect with ACE members while encouraging them to pursue their passions. Outside of work (pun intended) you can find Elyse swimming, climbing, and spending time with community.
Joost Besijn
Joost was born and raised in the Netherlands. He has a M.Sc. in Conservation Biology from the U.K and a B.Sc. in Wildlife Management from The Netherlands. In the past 15 years, Joost has worked in conservation in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Western USA. He now looks forward to working with ACE to work in a beautiful region to help preserve our natural resources.
Jake was born in Maryland and after graduating from Salisbury University with a BA in Psychology was drawn to ACE in California for a change in pace and scenery. After 2 terms as a Corps member in California, Jake moved on to his first staff position as a local housing manager in Central California. After a year helping to oversee the different properties in the Pacific West division, Jake moved onto a national role helping with all of ACE’s facilities. Jake is now located in Flagstaff, AZ where he is an avid snowboarder and hiker.
Johnny has served as a Project Manager with the Southwest division since May 2021, after working as a Crew Leader with SWA from October 2020 to May 2021! He is happiest when he is in the field with his teammates or hiking during the off days. He fell in love with conservation work as a corps member doing ACE Flagstaff in 2017, after obtaining his bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science from the University of Central Florida. Since then, he has worked with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy doing boundary maintenance in New England, as well as ACE Pacific West on the 2020 Pacific Crest Trail crew. Johnny’s passion for the outdoor s has led him back to Flagstaff, where it began, to serve as a mentor for the next generation of conservationists.
Dawn is so excited to be a part of the ACE community. She brings a heart for helping others achieve goals and grow and a desire to feel connected with nature. She lives in Inyokern, CA with her partner and 4-legged kiddos Greta Mae and Rowdee. Dawn looks forward to supporting members and helping ensure they have an amazing experience at ACE!
Freshly graduated from Northern Arizona Universities Social Work program, Becca is beyond excited to begin their work at ACE as the new member support coordinator. Combining Becca’s love for nature and preservation with their passion for helping others has created their own personal heaven on earth. The next closest thing to a personal heaven on earth for Becca would be a day spent outside, hiking with friends. Becca was born and partially raised in Manalapan, New Jersey, where their love of the woods and spending time outdoors flourished. Going to college at NAU solidified that the forest and the woods are exactly where Becca needed to be. Fast forward to graduating with a Degree in Social Work while double minoring in Psychology and Sociology, Becca found their passion in the field of people. Understanding the societal, internal, and biological factors that impact every person each day is the foundation of Becca’s compassion and something they try and help others to understand in efforts to build more empathy is those around them.
geology from the University of Minnesota, Morris. Over spring breaks he traveled out west to hike and camp in national parks. He spent a semester studying geology abroad in Italy. While earning his degrees he ran for the cross country and track programs and continues to run daily. A couple of months after graduating he joined ACE Southeast as a corps member to experience the southeast region of the country. After less than a year he became a crew leader for ACE Southeast. After two years of crew leading, Gabe is now looking forward to his new role as a project manager for ACE Southwest.
Michael Bee is very much looking forward to becoming part of the ACE team. He has an educational background in environmental and forestry sciences from both the University of Louisiana and Louisiana Technical College. Although most of his career has been focused on forest management, he is excited to explore and broaden my professional scope, and as such, learning to contribute to the ACE team as an NRCS Louisiana Easement Technician.
Judi is a farm girl from Indiana who moved to Florida when she was 12 years old. She went to College at the University of Tampa and completed an MBA and then passed the CPA exam. She has more than 25 years of experience in accounting including public, corporate, governmental, higher education and non-profit. She is thrilled to be joining the ACE team where she hopes to apply her skills to further the mission of this wonderful organization. Judi is “mom” to two dogs and one cat and splits her time between Florida and North Carolina. In her spare time she can be found birding in the swamps of Florida, dabbling in photography, or reading a good book.
Emanuel graduated from North Carolina State University with a degree in Environmental Science and soon thereafter accepted a Diversity Equity and Inclusion fellowship position with the National Outdoor leadership School focusing on DEI work in the outdoor industry as well as training to become an outdoor recreation instructor in backpacking and rock climbing. His love for conservation and outdoor education was nurtured there and further expanded upon during their time with their County’s Park and Recreation system where they were a Program Manager. Emanuel is excited to start this new chapter with the American Conservation Experience where they will go from working in their local park system to the national park system. When not working you can find them rock climbing, practicing their social dancing (salsa, contra swing dancing), binging media in all its forms, or napping.
Kyle grew up in Western North Carolina admiring the beauty and life in the Appalachian Mountains. He received a BA in Hispanic Literatures and Cultures and a BS in Information Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He fell in love with conservation work while serving an AmeriCorps term with Montana Conservation Corps. He later worked as an arborist and with Southern Appalachian Wilderness Stewards. When not working, he can be found hiking in the Wasatch Mountains, reading, or watching Carolina basketball.
Kerri Ryan began her conservation career as a corps member for ACE Southwest in early 2014 after earning a degree in Environmental Geoscience. After serving as an ACE corps member for about 9 months, Kerri became a Crew Leader for the ACE Southwest division. Kerri led ACE crews on various field projects focusing on Restoration projects, but also leading trail, forestry, and other projects throughout the Southwest. After ACE Kerri worked for the Forest Service seasonally, and then accepted a more permanent job with NYC Parks Natural Resources Group. In NY Kerri helped with Forest Restoration projects throughout the 5 boroughs of NYC, and helped plant thousands of native trees and shrubs each spring and fall throughout the natural areas of NYC. Kerri is very excited for the opportunity to return to ACE as a project manager for the Southeast division.
Shannon Borowy
Shannon grew up in Maryland and found a love of adventure and travel which has taken her all over the world. She has always held a passion for environmental conservation ever since she can remember. Her experience leading up to ACE includes sea turtle nest monitoring through AmeriCorps and working for the Volunteer Office in Yosemite National Park. Through ACE Shannon aims to help individuals grow their passions through the adventure of conservation work. In her spare time, Shannon can be found rock climbing, hiking, skiing, looking for salamanders, or crocheting.
Originally from Tennessee, I am now planted in Bloomington, Indiana working with the Wetland Reserve Easement program in the southern half of the state. After completing my Bachelor’s degree in Fish and Wildlife Science, I began working with game birds in New Mexico and South Carolina as a research technician. I then went on to study at the University of Georgia where I worked with translocation of Northern bobwhite in the Sandhills of North Carolina. After completing my Master’s degree at Georgia, I took a bit of a sabbatical from the professional world to enjoy the mountains and rivers of southwestern Colorado. In my free time, I like to find myself exploring a river with a fly rod or looking for game birds with my dog Maggie.
Hunter grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, before he made a move out west. A week after he graduated high school in 2015 he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He has been enlisted as a basic engineer/ Bulk Fuel Specialist since then and was quickly promoted to the rank of Sergeant at the age of 22. His military experience has given him a multitude of experiences to include, bulk logistics, leading / planning operations, and working with different branches of service such as the US Army and US Navy. Hunter started his conservation experience as an ATL for ACE in Pacific West, spending most of his term doing rock work on Mount San Jacinto. Hunter later moved into the Logistics Coordinator position to continue supporting conservation projects. Hunter found a new way to love the outdoors by doing conservation work. He also found some new hobbies in backcountry camping and rock climbing.
As a Wisconsin native, Jake grew up surrounded by exceptional natural beauty and diversity, and has been working to advocate for the protection and sustainable use of natural areas worldwide ever since. He joined ACE as a corpsmember in 2016, eventually becoming a Crew Lead and Project Manager before leaving ACE to continue his career in conservation and trail work elsewhere. In 2022 Jake returned to Flagstaff to continue working as a Project Manager. When not in the office or field Jake pursues a wide variety of ever changing hobbies and is always looking to learn something new.
Victor is an avid outdoors person who enjoys hiking, skiing and any outdoor recreation. Victor started the journey as a software developer back in 2020 through a boot camp at the University of Utah. Victor always enjoys the performing arts and loves helping others through a non-profit based in Utah.
Robert joined ACE in March 2022 as an ACE Partner Conservationist with NRCS Indiana where he assists with the restoration and management of Wetland Reserve Easements. Robert has a wildlife degree from Purdue University. Prior to joining ACE, he spent 6 years as the Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever Farm Bill Wildlife Biologist in the northwest quarter of Indiana. Robert is a native plant enthusiast and believes there is a native solution to every conservation challenge. Originally from Plymouth, Indiana, Robert now lives near West Lafayette with his wife Cindy and their three children. In their free time, Robert and Cindy enjoy dragging their children along as they search for wildlife and antiques.
Jenn comes to ACE after spending 8+ years in multiple partnership-focused roles at the Student Conservation Association, most recently as a Regional Vice President for Partnership. Prior to joining SCA, Jenn worked in government relations and higher education management at Carnegie Mellon University. She holds a Black Belt in Innovation Engineering, enjoys hiking and kayaking with her family, and is president of the board of Allegheny GoatScape, a Pittsburgh-based invasive plant management organization that utilizes herds of friendly goats for browsing.
Caroline graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Wildlife Ecology from the University of Maine and since has traveled and worked both nationally and internationally in the field of ecology. Recently she has received a graduate certificate in Conservation Actions: People, Land and Animals through Colorado State with a focus on communications. Throughout her career she has focused on small mammal ecology and habitat relationships in large scale landscape studies. Recently her career has shifted to focus on the ways conservation careers impact its workers and how to create more inclusive spaces in the environment through recruiting efforts. Outside of her career she is an avid hiker, kayaker, backpacking and reader!
Gabriella Logan is an Atlanta Native and proud graduate of Spelman College and Vermont Law School. With over 10 years of experience in both the non-profit and entertainment fields, she brings a wealth of knowledge about community development, recruitment, and the arts. She managed the Greening Youth Foundation Public School Initiatives after-school program where she recruited and trained interns from local colleges and high schools to execute the C.L.E.A.N (Children Living Energetically and Advancing Nature) environmental curriculum. Additionally, she ran the adult education programming at Trees Atlanta where she curated and recruited diverse speakers from the development and conservation fields. Her passion for community and education inspired her to stay committed to the cause through and through. She is a musician and legal educator and believes it is important to invest in education and the arts. She is a writer for Guitar World Magazine and She Shreds Magazine, the Board Chair of Girls Rock Asheville , a Voting Member of the Recording Academy, The President for the Girls Rock Camp Alliance Board of Directors, and the Diversity Editor for Guitar Girl Magazine.
Born in Pennsylvania and raised in Delaware, he has spent the majority of his life trying to find mountains on which to work and play both domestically and abroad. In the past 15 years, he has worked as an agroforestry extension agent in Guinea with the Peace Corps; a boundary technician with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy; a wilderness ranger with both the BLM in Southern Nevada and the National Park Service at Mount Rainier; and as a volunteer, crew leader, state director for ACE’s California Program, and associate director for the EPIC NPS Division. He is passionate about conservation and restoration and seeks to inspire others to develop that same ardor to protect our invaluable outdoor spaces. Aside from work, Joel is an avid hiker and backpacker. He also has a MS in Geography and Environmental Systems from the University of Maryland Baltimore County.
Growing up in Florida, Jamie developed a love for the outdoors while camping and hiking through upland pine forests and hardwood hammocks. It wasn’t until college, though, that she discovered a passion for conservation and land management as a volunteer with The Nature Conservancy and decided to pursue a career in the outdoors. After college, Jamie joined ACE Flagstaff as a Corps Member and got to work on trail maintenance in the Grand Canyon and fencing construction in the Petrified Forest. She loved her term with ACE but found herself missing the verdant east coast. After a five day mountain biking trip through Pisgah National Forest, she was convinced that she needed to move to Asheville to be in the mountains and spent her first year there interning and volunteering at a wildlife rehabilitation clinic. Eventually, she found her way back to ACE as a crew lead and is thrilled to be involved in restoration work in the Southeast.
Matt grew up in Hendersonville, NC. Matt took what would end up being 10 years off from undergrad at UNCA, during which time he served 2 full terms with AmeriCorps, as well as serving as a Staff member for 7 offices of 5 conservation corps, and has now wound up at ACE. Matt has loved working in the Conservation Corps community and is super happy to be back at it! He enjoys piano, martial arts, time with dogs, and is currently trying to get decent at woodworking.
Laura Craig excitedly joined ACE in 2022 as Chief Financial Officer. Laura comes to ACE as a not-for-profit accounting and financial executive with over 25 years’ management experience, which includes over 15 years’ experience as a Chief Financial Officer at various nonprofit organizations predominantly focusing on youth, education, and poverty alleviation.
Laura is well versed in the ever-growing complicated world of federal and state governmental accounting, with a comprehensive understanding of the universal guidelines and regulations that make not-for-profit accounting so challenging. She has a proven record of being an effective accounting and financial executive implementing complex budgets, cash flow projections, financial analysis and forecasting, financial reporting, technology analysis and implementation, streamlining processes, internal control, as well as fiscal strategic planning.
In addition to Laura’s accomplishments in the office, she also served as an adjunct professor of accounting and business at Great Falls College-Montana State University for seven years.
Laura recently relocated back to North Carolina, to the foothills of the Blue Ridge Parkway, after spending 13 years in rural Montana and two years in rural Washington state, fighting the war on poverty.
Laura has a Master of Science degree in Community Economic Development from Southern New Hampshire University, a Master of Science degree in Accountancy from University of Phoenix, a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Finance concentration) from Salem College, and an Associate of Applied Science degree in Accounting from Forsyth Technical Community College.
While not at work, Laura enjoys traveling nationally and internationally to explore beautiful natural areas and National Parks with her family. Laura is an avid swimmer (she was on a swim team growing up), and she especially loves any natural area with water.
Ama’s love of the outdoors, teamwork, and tangible results led her to a career in trails and conservation. Since 2005, Ama has served as a volunteer, crew member, crew leader, project manager, founder of a conservation corps, program director, and educator in the public, nonprofit, and private sectors across 18 different states throughout the country. Combining her bachelors degree in Public and Nonprofit Administration from Grand Valley State University with her extensive trail construction experience, Ama enjoys building partnerships in order to complete complex projects and sharing her passion for inclusivity and accessibility as it relates to sustainable recreation.
Originally from Chicago, David’s outdoor career path began with his sojourns through the world of the conservation corps of Texas and Montana. From there he worked for the Forest Service in Northern Arizona and later the National Parks of Crater Lake and Yosemite. Other experiences in the world of conservation have included trail maintenance on Catalina Island and teaching outdoor education in the mountains of Southern California. David has also given his time working to rebuild the lives of those affected by natural disasters in Texas, Louisiana, Puerto Rico, and Northern California.
Raised where the Great Plains meet the Eastern Forest, Sam was instilled with an appreciation for nature from a young age as he explored the bountiful and diverse Kansas Landscape. Following his graduation from Baker University in the Spring of 2016, Sam began his first term with ACE – a three month stint that quickly transitioned into three years. A time that defined the beginning of his career in conservation, and was highlighted by many beautiful locations and close friends. After a couple different jobs in natural resource management, he is back, hopeful to help create a similar experience in which members are able to express themselves, engage in meaningful conservation projects, and develop both personally and professionally.
Johannah grew up in Tennessee and graduated from the University of Tennessee with a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies. She volunteered in Costa Rica with sea turtles and studied plant community ecology in the Colorado Rockies while an undergraduate. Johannah developed her research and mentor skills while working with undergraduate interns at the University of California Irvine’s Center for Environmental Biology conducting plant community restoration research. Johannah completed a Master’s degree in Wildlife at Mississippi State University and then joined the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in North Dakota. Johannah worked for USFWS for 3.5 years, where she primarily facilitated the conservation easement program, managed FWS lands, and completed a variety of GIS and data management tasks. Johannah was introduced to ACE during her time with the service, as she had the pleasure of supervising ACE GIS interns. Johannah especially enjoys interacting with and mentoring young people, so she is excited to connect young professionals with conservation opportunities as an ACE Division Support Specialist. She is also excited to maintain her connection with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and looks forward to developing new partnerships. In her spare time, Johannah enjoys hiking, traveling, crocheting, and spending time with her husband, daughter, and cat.
Jake’s love of nature was instilled in him from an early age. His summers as a child were spent camping and fishing on the rivers, bays, and swamps near his home in rural northwest Florida. This eventually led him to obtain a degree in wildlife ecology & conservation from the University of Florida, where he participated in research projects which ranged from turtles and manatees in the natural spring runs of central Florida, to ecological biodiversity on the savannahs of South Africa and Eswatini. Post-graduation, Jake worked for the University of Tennessee monitoring box turtles on the Cumberland Plateau, worked for USGS on marine turtle research in northwest Florida, and eventually served as an ACE EPIC member for a vegetation research project in southern Appalachia. He steps into this permanent position with ACE EPIC FWS after 2 years of administrative experience with another nonprofit.In his free time, Jake is an education and outreach volunteer with Great Smoky Mountains National Park and an avid Dungeons & Dragons player. You can also find him in the mountains photographing wildlife and hiking with his fiance and his dog.
Andrew grew up and attended college in California and then moved to Delaware to attend graduate school where he studied the neural basis of memory-guided foraging behavior. Following that, he worked on various projects at a USDA National Wildlife Research Center-Predator Research Facility in northern Utah. Now working with EPIC-FWS Division, he is excited to combine his passion for wildlife conservation with his enthusiasm for outreach and youth engagement. Outside of work, he enjoys running and backpacking.
Victoria (Vic) was born and raised in the suburbs of Maryland. She first developed a care for the natural world through her high school’s Global Ecology program. With a degree in Environmental Science from the University of Maryland and experience in leading Outdoor Recreation trips, she set herself up nicely for the grand adventure that is seasonal work. She found a consistent home working at REI before relocating to Utah to work in Wilderness Therapy. Working in the high desert of Utah fostered an unexpected love for the desert. This love led her to an internship with the American Conservation Experience and Saguaro National Park as a Resource Management intern. She is now excited to pause her seasonal work to help others connect and deepen their relationship with the land as a Recruitment Specialist. When Vic is not working she will be eating avocado toast on sourdough bread, surrounding herself with books, and climbing plastic and real rocks.
A Maine native, Matt is excited to be a part of ACE and help connect others with the world of conservation and volunteerism. Graduating in 2014 from the University of Maine with a BS in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism, Matt has spent time working in natural spaces over the last nine years. He has held such positions as a backcountry ranger in Kentucky, a trail crew leader and Field Coordinator with the Maine Conservation Corps, and has over four years experience working with the Forest Service. Most recently, he worked as a contractor with the Forest Service on the Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team as a Recreation Specialist for the Caldor Fire in California. Outside of work Matt enjoys hiking, camping, cooking, catching up on shows, playing board games, and exploring nearby areas.
Born and raised in California, Devin has worked in the conservation world for 12 years. Before joining ACE in 2013, Devin worked with California State Parks and the California Conservation Corps. Over the years, they worked on many different types of projects, but their passions lie in trail construction and working with our fuels reduction crews. In their free time, you can find them mountain biking on the coast or tinkering with something in a shop somewhere.
Gail Adams is the Vice President of Communications and External Affairs at the EnerGeo Alliance, an international upstream energy trade association. She has more than 20 years of experience in the environment and natural resources public policy arena and working with states and local government. She has more than 30 years’ experience in public affairs, non-profit organizations, and governmental affairs.
She is a former Presidential Appointee as Director of the Office of Intergovernmental and External Affairs (OIEA) for the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI), Immediate Office of the Secretary where she managed relationships between the DOI and Governors, state and local elected officials and the more than 6000 stakeholders and organizations that represent interests related to DOI. She also had a key role on the President’s Task Force on Travel & Competitiveness and helped to craft the nation’s National Travel and Tourism Strategy which brought the United States from 10th in the world back to first in market share for world tourism.
Adams is a former television news anchor, public affairs show host, and radio personality. She is also a certified grants writer. Adams is a graduate of Louisiana State University.
Prior to joining ACE, Joellyn spent the last nine years with the Student Conservation Association. During her time with SCA, as a public grants officer she oversaw the planning, development, and submission of federal, state, and local municipal grant proposals at the six and seven figure level. She was responsible for managing a complex grant development process, incorporating knowledge of relevant content areas, organization priorities, and proposal requirements, to ensure that the proposed strategies and submission content comply with grant guidelines. Additionally, she managed all aspects of the grants once awarded including compliance, achievement of deliverables, budget management, programmatic and financial reporting, and communication with awarding agency staff. Before joining SCA, Joellyn spent 20 years in health care. She holds a Master’s degree in Public Health. While not at work Joellyn enjoys taking walks, kayaking, and most recently has taken up golf. She most enjoys spending time with her dogs and two grandchildren.
I am originally from Bountiful, Utah and made my way down to Southern Utah for college at Southern Utah University. This institution helped me fall in love with being outdoors and all the amazing sports that it has to offer. I graduated with a BS in outdoor recreation and leadership with a minor in psychology. After school I worked right next to Zion National Park for 2 years. A couple of odd jobs later, I found my way to ACE. It is an exciting opportunity to be part of an organization that creates equity in the outdoors so everyone can enjoy nature the way that they prefer and are comfortable with. In my down time you can catch me on my mountain bike riding resorts or jumping at the local bike park. When I’m not on my bike I am teaching yoga, skiing, climbing, canyoneering, or doing whatever gets me into the fresh air with a little boost of adrenaline.
Kaitlin started her career with ACE as a crew member in 2021, after graduating in 2020 from University of Wisconsin with a B.S. in Geosciences. While serving as a crew member, she got the chance to experience many different forms of conservation all across the western states–from planting native species near Death Valley National Park to vacuuming caves at Wind Cave National Park in South Dakota. At the end of Kaitlin’s 3-month term as a crew member, she took a seasonal position as a Hydrology Technician with the Forest Service based in the Sierra Nevadas. Upon completion of that position, Kaitlin returned to ACE-Mountain West as the Logistics Coordinator. Kaitlin is excited to continue a career in environmental conservation and further explore Southern Utah! In her free time, you can find Kaitlin running, hiking, and climbing around!
Deidra brings a medley of experiences to ACE – from team building facilitation, outdoor adventure education, environmental education, and resource interpretation – all with the common thread of supporting emerging professionals developing into incredible leaders. Deidra holds an Integrated Studies BA (Florida Gulf Coast University) and is currently working towards an MS in Experiential and Outdoor Education (Western Carolina University). Deidra started off a professional public lands connection by participating in the 2016 Grand Teton NPS Academy, and since has worked in three national parks as intern, as well as Bureau of Land Management (Yaquina Head O.N.A. on the Oregon coast) as a seasonal ranger. Other professional pursuits include 8 years as an experiential educator in recreation and environmental education settings. Outside of work, Deidra is involved in several initiatives to create equity in the outdoors-locally and beyond. Hobbies include hiking with dogs Cairo and Neri, paddling, incredibly amateur photography (Deidra’s words!), playing the viola, and ziplining.
Sarah is originally from New Jersey, but spent time growing up between NJ and New Orleans, Louisiana, where she also completed a bachelor’s degree from Tulane University. It was her time in Nola that contributed to her love of the outdoors and protecting natural resources. Since then, she has worked as a marine scientist in Florida, South Africa, and Maine, in health education in New Orleans, and as a science journalist in Boston. She is excited to head west of the Mississippi and continue her passion for conserving socio-ecological systems through human-dimensions work. In her spare time, you can find Sarah hiking with her dog, Bella, and participating in any water-based activity.
My name is Melissa Watson and I’m new to ACE! I grew up in Lafayette, Louisiana and got my B.A. from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. I’m currently completing my Master of Public Affairs degree at Western Carolina University.
Trevor works to protect and enhance wetlands on NRCS conservation easements. With a B.S. in Geology, he began his career in consulting where he specialized in stopping anthropogenic erosion from polluting sensitive fisheries. He continued to grow his passion for conservation while managing diverse open space preserves and conservation easements with a nonprofit in California. More recently, Trevor worked for a state agency in Idaho managing thousands of acres of working lands and regulating navigable waters. As a member of ACE, Trevor enjoys using his skillset to support public conservation agencies and private conservation landowners while protecting and enhancing natural resources. When not working, Trevor can be found camping, fishing, cycling, and spending time with his family.
Deanna holds a Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from Auburn University. Upon graduation she discovered her love for teaching youth outdoor environmental classes while serving several seasons as an environmental educator in TN and TX. Her passion for the outdoors was further nurtured during her time with the National Park Service. Deanna’s NPS adventures have consisted of cultural resources work at Death Valley NP and Cumberland Island NS and interpretation at Carlsbad Caverns NP. She then bridged to the nonprofit world where she spent 4 years as a regional recruiter for SCA. More recently she’s spent the past several years in the areas of contract and grants management for a variety of public service projects while working to complete her Master of Public Administration. She met her husband while working at Carlsbad Caverns NP and they have been adventuring ever since! In her spare time, she can be found hiking, paddleboarding, skiing, with her husband, son, and husky- Loki (which lives up to his namesake daily).
I grew up in Carlyle, Illinois surrounded by agriculture and nature. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Wildlife Biology at Murray State University and my Master’s Degree in Forest Science at the University of Arkansas in Monticello. My passion is in wetland conservation and I have worked in wetlands for about 5 years. I am excited to continue this work with ACE here in Indiana. I love everything outdoors, from hunting and fishing to camping and gardening.
Claire was born in China, but grew up in upstate New York. She graduated with a B.A. in Environmental Sociology and Spanish from Albright College (Reading, PA). She got her first hands-on conservation experience right after college with the Student Conservation Association. She worked on restoring canons in Puerto Rico, monitoring deer in Maryland and teaching about mission life in Arizona. After these varied experiences, she went on to complete graduate work at Teton Science Schools and the University of Wyoming, majoring in Natural Science Education and Natural Resources. Her meandering path continued to lead her into a 10-month long ACE-EPIC internship at the Long Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex. She loves helping people find their own way to connect to the environment and is excited to continue doing that as an ACE Division Support Specialist. In her spare time, you can find her rallying on the tennis courts or playing spikeball on the beach.
I am originally from the east coast, spent time living and working in the west and northeast before landing in New Hampshire. I have worked in the parks and recreation/conservation field for almost 9 years including working for the National Park Service, municipal and state recreation and higher education. Most recently, I worked at SCA starting as a National Program Coordinator for the Northeast and Mid-Central Region of the US and the AmeriCorps National Program Manager. I received my Master’s degree in 2017 in Recreation Administration and Management with an interest in urban green space development and youth access from the University of Toledo. I have a passion for youth in conservation and supporting open access to healthy and sustainable recreation opportunities for all. Outside of work I spend time hiking, stand-up paddle boarding, running, playing/coaching competitive ultimate frisbee, cooking and competing in the Punkin Chunkin’ World Championships with a team holding the current world record of launching a pumpkin 4091 feet from a catapult.
Trevor brings good experience to the board having worked on the Hill doing environmental policy work. Trevor hails from Williams, AZ and currently lives in Raleigh NC. Trevor is looking forward to supporting our legislative work and even more, is looking to get out into the field to meet staff and members.
Experienced Senior Policy and Communications Advisor for U.S. Senate and House members specializing in Energy, Natural Resources, Water, Clean Energy, Forestry, Minerals, Public Lands, Native American policy and more.
Managed legislative strategy to expedite passage of the Colorado River Drought Contingency Plan which ensured water security for 40 million Americans in the West.
Organized bipartisan stakeholder coalition to identify and advocate for critical Tribal COVID relief needs in CARES Act, securing the largest federal funding package to Native American communities in U.S. history.
Erik was born and raised in Santa Fe, New Mexico where he developed a love of the outdoors. After graduating from high school, he moved to Flagstaff, Arizona to attend Northern Arizona University. There he earned a B.A. in English and a certificate in creative writing. After college, he served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Nicaragua. Since then, he has worked primarily in education. In 2021, he joined ACE as a corps member because he wanted to transition to the environmental sector. Halfway through his term, he was hired as Provisions and Supplies Coordinator. He is excited to do food and tool logistics and thereby continue to contribute to the work of environmental conservation. In his free time, he enjoys hiking, mountain biking, and making art.
Cassie joined ACE in the summer of 2017 after completing her B.S. in Biology at The University of North Carolina Wilmington. After completing three AmeriCorps terms in North Carolina and California, she wanted to continue her career in conservation, and has since worked as a Crew Leader and Project Manager. Cassie is most passionate about backcountry trails and rigging projects, as well as habitat restoration. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, cooking, gardening, and reading outdoors.
Kody grew up in Bullhead City, Arizona, alongside the rushing Colorado River. As a child, Kody enjoyed outdoor adventure and always influenced his family to take him out on the water, for hikes in the Black and Pyramid mountains or just up the hill by his house. In 2013, Kody began his conservation journey where he served as a conservation corpsmember in the Verde Valley of Arizona cutting down tamarisk and removing other invasive species along the Verde River riparian corridor. After serving as an Americorps member, Kody Crawford went on to lead a mapping crew, which mapped invasive and rare species along the Verde River and in the Kaibab, Coconino and Tonto National Forests. After completing the mapping project, Kody became a trail crew leader for the Island Trail project within Walnut Canyon National Monument. Since 2015, Kody has spent his time developing public access for blueways and greenways in West Virginia as an Americorps Volunteer in Service to America (VISTA) and in South Carolina as a private contractor for conservation organizations. Outside of ACE, Kody Crawford can be found hanging out with his cat, biking around town or trying to find a good swimming hole.
Hannah is responsible for working with all ACE departments and divisions to develop strategies, policies, and administrative processes that support ACE staff, members and programs. Hannah has worked with ACE since 2013 developing and managing youth and community programs, focusing on creating programs that engage and introduce teens and young adults to careers in conservation. After completion of her Bachelor of Arts degrees in Environmental Studies and Spanish from the University of Oregon, Hannah has worked in education, interpretation, and public outreach with the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management and non-profit park partners leading and developing formal and informal education and service-learning programs for k-12 youth, volunteers, and visitors, centered on inquiry-based and multi-cultural program curriculum and activities for a variety of programs. Collaborating with the public and creating partnerships with local schools and community groups, Hannah worked to increase program productivity, specifically engaging underserved /under represented youth. While working as the ACE Youth Coordinator Fellow for the BLM Arizona, Hannah managed the BLM Phoenix District Youth Initiative program that created academic and career pathways in natural resources for urban youth in underserved communities. In 2012, Hannah helped lead the BLM Phoenix District Youth Initiative in receiving the prestigious Secretary of the Interior’s Partners in Conservation Award. Hannah is passionate about inspiring and mentoring youth to become strong leaders within their environments and their communities through internships and volunteer opportunities that integrate education and career experience. When not in the office, Hannah can be found hiking and exploring the beautiful mountains and deserts of the southwest with her dog Penny.
Alex D. Tremble serves as the American Conservation Experience, Chief Culture Officer. In this role he is responsible for ensuring that systems are in place and utilized to develop and sustain a best-in-class workplace culture. He started his journey in the conservation field working for the U.S. Department of the Interior, Office of the Secretary. After creating and managing the Department’s first executive leadership development program, he went on to serve as the National Parks Services’ National Youth Employment Programs Coordinator, and later the Chief of Staff for National Capital Parks-East. Alex is an award-winning speaker, author, and leadership expert who has over 10 years of experience coaching and advising some of our nation’s most senior level government leaders. He is also the host of the leadership and career advancement podcast, The Alex Tremble Show, and was named as a Leadership Center for Excellence 40 under 40 honoree. Alex is passionate and committed to helping our nation’s leaders reach their highest potential; personally, and professionally. Alex received his Bachelor’s degree in sociology and psychology from William Penn University and his Master’s degree in industrial and organizational psychology from the University of Baltimore.
Hallie grew up in NC and graduated with a degree in Sustainable Development from Appalachian State University. After a few cross country road trips, an AmeriCorps term in Denver Public Schools, and doing “van life” for a few months she began a career in the conservation world in 2019 with Montana Conservation Corps. Recently, Hallie accepted a position with ACE and is excited to work with members to help foster their love and stewardship of the outdoors.
After receiving a B.S. in Chemistry from Central Michigan University, and deciding I did not want to work in a lab, I have been in the world of trails and conservation for most of my 20s. I have had the pleasure of working all over the southwest from the Sierras to the Rockies. I love being able to appreciate the beauty of the outdoors, which is why I enjoy putting in the work to help keep wild spaces well maintained and accessible to future generations. Hobbies in my free time include: hiking, yoga, climbing, playing music or enjoying a good book.
Grady has been doing seasonal natural resource management since 2015 or so. His travels have sent him everywhere from Ohio to Alaska…twice. He is a self-proclaimed highlands river pirate who specializes in invasive plant management as well as a variety of tree work categories. His experiences have seen him go from backpacking herbicide to flying a 55’ bucket truck trimming palm trees to canyoneering with a chainsaw clearing trees off the sides of cliffs in Alaska. Whenever he isn’t hanging precariously off cliffs wielding chainsaws, he enjoys studying pirate history, cooking delicious meals, and woodworking. If you come across him in his natural habitat, he can be positively identified by his fantastic facial hair, brightly colored clothing, and generally cheerful demeanor. Some sightings have noted his fashionable kilt attire, but this has yet to be professionally verified.
Carl joined ACE as the National Forestry Specialist in November of 2017. As a 15-year career wildland firefighter for both federal and local fire agencies and an active US Forest Service C Faller, Carl has an extensive background in wildfire suppression, prescribed fire operations, hazardous fuels mitigation, firewise assessments, hazard tree mitigation, chainsaw training and sawyer evaluations.
The great outdoors has always been an important part of Carl’s life having started camping and hiking from an early age at many of our National Forests and Parks. In his free time, he enjoys hiking, camping and listening to live music with his wife and son. Carl is excited to be a part of ACE and to be able to pass on his knowledge and excitement of forestry and the outdoors to the younger generations.
Marilyn is a native Texan, but went to school at Rhodes College in Memphis, TN, earning a degree in Environmental Science and minoring in Spanish and Latin American Studies. During college, she studied abroad in Chile and met her husband while backpacking in Patagonia. After school, she worked on a USGS sage grouse project, chasing after birds for a season, and then worked at Lake Amistad in southwest Texas for a year doing GIS and field work. She’s excited to join ACE to work on GIS and data management for the USFWS Trails Program. In her free time, Marilyn enjoys traveling, hiking, camping, and birding. She lives with her husband, Carlos, and their cat, Buddy, in San Antonio, TX.
Adam comes to ACE with experience with various public lands agencies in Colorado including Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and Boulder County Parks and Open Space. Adam has a passion for the youth corps world having served on a chainsaw crew with the Nevada Conservation Corps and also as a crew leader with the Mile High Youth Corps in Denver. Previously, Adam grew up in Maryland and earned his BA in Environmental Studies from Bates College in Maine. Adam is excited to join ACE in 2021 as a Division Support Specialist in the Fish and Wildlife Service Division. Outside of work, you can find Adam enjoying soccer, ultimate frisbee, and a variety of outdoor activities on public lands.
Bianca (Oneida, Kiowa, Comanche, and Ottawa) hails from the plains of central Oklahoma and attended the University of Oklahoma, earning degrees in Environmental Sustainability and Native American Studies and completing research on Native participation in National Parks. After graduating, she spent a summer at Grand Teton National Park through ACE EPIC, where she found a passion for working and educating in the great outdoors. Bianca loves a good balance of activity and relaxation. You are just as likely to find her climbing a mountain as you are to find her sunbathing on a beach. She loves her daughter, her dog, and her husband (in that order).
Having had the opportunity to live and grow-up in a variety of unique ecosystems and landscapes, Ellie fell in love with conservation science and engaging others in the outdoors. She received her B.A. in biology from Vassar College, and completed her M.S. degree at Boise State University where she studied the human-environment system interactions of outdoor recreation and human well-being. Since then, Ellie has participated in ecological community mapping, wetland and stream restoration efforts, and environmental education. In her free time, Ellie likes to read books, bake bread, as well as go hiking and exploring with her husband.
Madison has had a profound love for wildlife and the natural world as far back as she can remember. This love was nurtured throughout her childhood by her role models like Steve Irwin and Jane Goodall, and by her family through their travels across the country exploring our National Parks. She was born and raised in Tampa, Florida which fostered her fascination with coastal and wetland ecology, and it was no surprise that she then attended the University of Florida and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation. From there, her experience in conservation science ranges from ecological research in the savannahs of South Africa and Eswatini to the mountains of Idaho. Her story with ACE began as an education and interpretation park ranger intern stationed in Cades Cove, Great Smoky Mountains National Park. She continued her work with ACE as crew leader for a vegetation research project on federal lands around the Great Smoky Mountains area, and then as a community engagement coordinator out of Great Smoky Mountains National Park headquarters. With a strong background in ecology and conservation, as well as environmental education and outreach, she is thrilled to take on this new role as a Recruitment Specialist for American Conservation Experience to assist other emerging professionals in conservation by finding their career path through the National Park Service. Due to having lived and worked in such vastly different ecosystems, Madison enjoys a wide variety of outdoor recreational activities, from surfing and kayaking to hiking and camping. She also loves horseback riding, wildlife writing and photography, and any activity she can do with her two favorite companions – her fiance and her dog.
Born on the east coast in Maryland, Hannah didn’t really see truly big mountains till she moved to Reno, Nevada. After moving west she discovered her love of all things outdoors, specifically climbing and back country skiing in Mammoth and the Lake Tahoe area. After a few years of rock and snow filled adventures through California and Nevada, she moved to southern Utah. Her love for the outdoors introduced her to the abundance of outdoor advocacy projects, non-profits, and coalitions all working to help protect the land that she loves and gets to play on everyday. Hannah came to ACE Mountain West in 2021 to be a part of protecting that land, and serve as a Member Support Coordinator to directly support the crew members who do just that. After work, she can usually be found riding her bike at Hurricane Cliffs, Gooseberry Mesa, or painting at home.
Jack became involved with ACE in 2020 as a member of an Ecological Site Inventory team for the Bureau of Land Management in the western deserts of Utah. Originally from the coastal state of Rhode Island, Jack attended Appalachian State University in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountainswhere he studied Geography, focusing on GIS. He is thrilled to help get passionate people involved in conservation and land management. Prior to joining the ACE team, Jack had worked in the outdoor recreation industry as a rock climbing instructor and kayaking guide and is often torn between the ocean and the mountains. In his free time you might find Jack trying to figure out how to make his guitar sound good, climbing in the Wasatch range,or fantasizing about adopting a dog.
Carolyn Getschow joined ACE in July 2013 as a Management, Development, and Logistical Support Intern, and stepped into the role of AmeriCorps Program Manager in February 2014. She is a graduate of the University of Southern California, where she earned degrees in Biological Sciences and Mathematics and spent a semester studying at the Wrigley Institute on Catalina Island. Carolyn is a lifetime member of the Girl Scouts, and her favorite habitat is underwater, in the kelp forests of California. She lives in Santa Cruz with her cat Colby and enjoys cross stitch, baking, and volunteering as an official for the Santa Cruz Roller Derby league.
Inspired by the rolling hills and flowing cricks of her hometown in central Pennsylvania, Nicole set out west in 2014 to Flagstaff, AZ to learn more about conservation as a corps member with ACE. After two 900-hour terms with ACE, Nicole began leading crews until 2017, when she then transitioned to seasonal trail work with NPS and USFS throughout the west, while also pursuing a Master’s degree in Sustainable Communities. After Nicole completed her graduate degree with her thesis research focused on the intersection of conservation and justice, she has circled back to working with ACE in this position of Associate Director of Member Resources to cultivate community within ACE and to support emerging conservationists on their ACE journey. Outside of work, Nicole enjoys tending to her plants, reading science fiction, taking nature strolls, and spending time with her partner, dog, and cat.
Chris’ passion for long-distance hiking and cycling led him to pursue a career in conservation. Since 2008 he has served as a volunteer, crew leader, trail manager, operations director, and deputy director for a number of non-profit conservation and trail organizations around the country. Chris holds undergraduate degrees from Boston College and advanced degrees in landscape architecture and natural resource management from Utah State University. He lives at Lake Tahoe and is an active member on his local Search and Rescue team.
Scott Springer currently serves as a Supervisory Natural Resource Specialist and Regional Realty Officer with the US Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation, at the California-Great Basin Region, in Sacramento, CA. The disciplines under his supervision include realty, land and water uses, outdoor recreation, wildland fire and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) since 2015. Scott has also served 7 years as the Regional Outdoor Recreation Planner at the California-Great Basin Regional Office of Reclamation, where he provided advice and assistance to the Area Offices regarding recreation issues, policy guidance and partnership development beginning in 2008.
Scott is a born and raised Washingtonian. He lived in western Washington state as a child growing up in a small town in Grays Harbor County. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Wildland Recreation Management, from Washington State University, Pullman, WA in 1990.
Scott has a broad spectrum of educational and experience opportunities in various urban, rural, and backcountry recreation settings. Beginning in 1986, Scott has held recreation positions with the Washington State Parks and Recreation as well as the Department of Natural Resources. He began is federal career with the Bureau of Land Management on the Rogue River in Grants Pass, Oregon in 1990. His experiences then shifted to 18 years of recreation and land management experience with the U.S. Forest Service in the Congressionally designated Hells Canyon National Recreation Area of Idaho and Oregon and Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
Scott enjoys being in the great outdoors with his dog. Backpacking, fishing, golfing, biking and completing five marathons in the past 15 years. He visits the great Pacific Northwest often, spending a majority of that time in northeastern Washington at a family farm outside the small town of Chewelah.
Mark Comer was born in Bisbee, Arizona. With ten years of experience in the automotive industry under his belt, he moved north and joined ACE SWA as an AmeriCorps member in 2018. He was able to end his term early and join SWA as Fleet and Facilities Manager in 2019. He is our repairman of engines small and large, driving instructor, and handsaw-sharpening aficionado. When he is not managing the fleet, he enjoys attempting to tame his dog Flynn, dirt biking, and generally adventuring around this state he loves.
Born on a small island in Maryland, Mary enjoyed spending all her free time playing on the water and in the marshes. Determined to see more of what nature had to offer, she decided to attend college in the Shenandoah Valley of VA. She graduated from James Madison University in 2017 with a B.S. in Biology. Promptly after graduation and with another jump in ecosystems, she landed in Flagstaff, AZ where she completed two terms as a corps member with ACE. She left the sunny, dry deserts to explore the foggy forests of the northwest spending a year in Oregon leading youth crews and teaching environmental education. Again, she packed her bags, bound for the Colorado Rockies where she continued doing trail work and environmental education but this time at 14,000 feet. Now she’s back in Flagstaff and excited to help foster a passion for land stewardship in all the ACE corps members she gets to interact with!
Jack first joined ACE as an international member back in 2011, his first project took him to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and after that he knew this was a place he wanted to work. Jack worked as a Crew leader in 2011 and 2012 and loved every moment of it developed a love for trails and the South West area. That love of the South West brought Jack back in 2016 and he has been with ACE ever since. In Jack’s down time he loves spending time hiking and exploring the great outdoors with his Wife Sarah and Daughter Maggie.
Keean began as Corps member with ACE in 2010 after moving out west from Pennsylvania. After only 4 months he was hooked and has never looked back. During his time with ACE he has worked as a Crew Leader, Project Manager, Associate Director and moved in the SWA Division Director role in 2020. Keean also instructs Crosscut Saw use and relishes the opportunity to get out into the field and teach traditional skills whenever possible. Outside of ACE Keean enjoys playing music, mountain biking and taking his dirtbike out whenever possible.
Dennis started with ACE Pacific West in early 2014 as a Conservation Volunteer before moving into an Americorps member, Crew Leader, California Restoration Coordinator, and most recently the Associate Director of Partnerships. Dennis has spent much of his time on the road supporting restoration and forestry projects over the years, but has moved into a more remote administrative role here in ACE PW with the main focus of setting up new and existing projects all around the West Coast. He hopes to see you in an upcoming training or a fuel reduction on the beach soon!
Aaron joined ACE in 2019 as Regional Director for the Mountain West Division, and brings to ACE many years of experience directing facilities, programs and high-performance teams in the recreation, sustainable travel/tourism and outdoor behavioral health industries.
For the past eight years prior to joining ACE, Aaron served as Executive Director and founder of an expedition travel and gap year provider for young adults in the for profit outdoor behavioral health segment. In this capacity Aaron was responsible for building entrepreneurial teams, developing all divisions, and creating world class adventure education programming with a strong emphasis in environmental conservation stewardship volunteerism.
With an extensive professional guiding and adventure videography background, Aaron is a certified Wilderness EMT and brings the perspective of thousands of backcountry days leading and filming expeditions including: mountaineering, rock climbing, canyoneering, fly fishing, paddling, trekking, ski & snowboard touring, mountain biking, scuba diving, adventure motorcycling and wilderness self-reliance through traditional life ways.
Aaron holds a Bachelor’s of Science Degree from Brigham Young University in Recreation Management and Youth Leadership, Leisure Services Management with an Entrepreneurial Business Marketing emphasis through the Marriott School of Business. In his free time, Aaron enjoys travel adventures with his children and pursuing his passion for aviation. Aaron holds a private pilot certificate and enjoys building and flying experimental aircraft.
Karen grew up in the Atlanta area and got her first taste of hiking and camping in the Smokies and the mountains of north Georgia. She has degrees in Environmental Science and Forestry. She spent the early part of her career doing restoration with the NPS and other organizations out west, including many summers at Yosemite National Park. In 2006, she also happened upon a little upstart conservation corps called ACE and worked out of Flagstaff for a few winters. She moved back east for a job at Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and now is excited to be working for ACE again after all these years!
Nick is an ACE Partner Conservationist with NRCS Idaho. Prior to joining ACE, Nick held positions with varying capacities in conservation – he has worked in education, as a naturalist, a forester, and with several conservation nonprofits. When he joined ACE in 2018, he was the NRCS Division’s first partner conservationist. He has a bachelor’s degree from Montana State University and master’s degree in environmental conservation from New York University (NYU). At NYU, he published research on environmental decision making and served as a referee for several academic environmental psychology journals. He also co-wrote a middle school textbook on climate change in conjunction with Earth Day Network. When not working to improve and expand conservation easements, he can often be found chasing birds in the hills of Idaho with his pointer, Pete.
Hayley has led NRCS monitoring programs at ACE since June 2019. She carries out nationwide easement monitoring projects and leads the development of an ecological questionnaire. Her exploration and education of the natural world began along the shores of Lake Superior while studying Environmental Science at Northern Michigan University. Her interest in wetlands, restoration ecology, and natural resource monitoring and management was set in motion during her work with NRCS-Tennessee supporting the wetland easement programs. She completed her graduate degree from Montana State University in Environmental Science and Land Resources. She is thrilled to be working with ACE, stomping around in wetland projects. In her free time, Hayley enjoys hiking, biking, camping, writing bios about herself in the third person, reading, and slacklining.
Fiona provides specialized program support for the NRCS Division. Originally from Santa Cruz, California, Fiona grew up swimming in the Pacific Ocean, hiking and camping in the redwoods, and traveling to nearby National and State Parks. She took her love for the outdoors to Utah where she worked in the outdoor behavioral health industry prior to joining ACE in 2019. Fiona has over a decade of experience in the mental health field, working with adolescents and adults, and continues to be passionate about mental health work in an outdoor setting. She has a BS in Psychology, with minors in Spanish and Peace and Conflict Studies. In her spare time, Fiona loves to travel, bake, and spend time with her husband and two cats.
Dan began leading the NRCS Division’s restoration program in 2020. For three years prior, he was ACE’s Division Director with the Gulf Coast- Conservation Corps program- headquartered in Corpus Christi,Texas. Since graduating from Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina in 2010, Dan’s career has been entirely focused on restoration ecology and land management in the federal and non-profit sector. During his tenure with the National Park Service (NPS), Dan had the opportunity to collaborate with fellow land management specialists in over 20 NPS units across the Southeast and Southwest United States. His passion for progressive land management practices is driven by nearly a decade of experience in invasive plant ecology, monitoring, wildland fire, forest management and leveraging the power of collaboration. Dan spends his weekends exploring the unknown with his wife, Kristy, and their two pets out of a 22’ RV.
Crystal leads the NRCS Division and its related conservation service programs. Trained as an environmental planner and practiced as a collaborative leader, she has managed stewardship programs and legal defense for over 7,000 acres of private lands protected by conservation easements. Crystal has led strategic visioning; developed regional advocacy and conservation policies; provided technical assistance to landowners; monitored the environmental efficiency of conservation practices on private lands; and has directed multi-year and multi-stakeholder programming. She did her graduate work in environmental planning and engineering at UC Berkeley. Crystal lives in the mountains with her husband Zack, their daughters Wren and Ivy, and lab Marlowe.
Ellen has been with ACE since her graduation from Vanderbilt University in 2017. She grew up in Ohio, but fell in love with the west after her first position as an ACE-Americorp intern, doing resource inventory for the BLM in northern California. Her term with the BLM only strengthened her passion for conservation and public lands, and she pursued another position with ACE as the logistics coordinator for the USFWS National Visitor Survey project, based in Colorado. She has since come on as the Agreements and Project Manager for the USFWS division, and loves helping others on their conservation career path. In her free time, Ellen can be found outdoors – she is an avid hiker and backpacker, and a geologist by hobby.
Josh has spent his life chasing outdoor adventures and now focuses on sharing these experiences with his daughter, Cody Ann. Josh is a passionate and accomplished backcountry skier, mountain biker and trail builder. “I believe trails aren’t just about getting from point A to point B. Good trails are like those bumper stickers that say that life is about the journey, not the destination. A great trail IS the destination as they provide an adventurous experience that highlights the landscape and hugs the natural contours, takes the user to beautiful viewsheds, rock outcroppings and other points of interest. Trail design and construction isn’t just a job for me, it’s an artform.”
Agreements & Compliance Specialist: Molly began her work with ACE as a volunteer in the Salt Lake City office in sugarhouse. She has developed into her current role where she performs all state and federal background for each member in the EPIC Program. Her dedication to her duties ensure a safe work environment. Molly got her B.S. in Environmental Studies from Westminster College and grew up working for an environmental restoration company in both New Jersey and Tennessee. As an avid Snowboarder, Molly loves hitting the slopes during the winter and in the off seasons you can find her near the water as she tries to find any excuse to go surfing.
Colby joined the ACE team after five years of working with nonprofits serving refugees in Boise, ID and Salt Lake City, UT. He monitored compliance for several federal grants, conducted data analysis, and administered a cash assistance program for newly resettled refugees. Colby also has a background in Archaeology, volunteer development, museums, and GIS, and is excited to return to these roots in contributing to the mission of ACE.
A.J.’s career in the non-profit conservation field began in 2013 as an AmeriCorps member with the Student Conservation Association in western Massachusetts. There he learned invaluable skills regarding hands-on conservation projects and environmental education for future land managers. He began working for ACE in 2014, starting out as an Outreach Coordinator for the Southwest Arizona division in Flagstaff. He has since been fortunate enough to assume various roles throughout the organization such as AmeriCorps program management, agreement management, compliance, and administration. Having lived in states ranging from Arizona to Maryland he currently lives in his home state of Wisconsin. In his spare time he enjoys golfing, landscape photography, and spending time with his Golden Retriever, Macy.
Born on the land now known as Wisconsin, Mackenzie began her conservation journey as a child “up der in da north woods,” scouring streams for rocks and helping her dad with outdoor projects. After graduating from Wisconsin-Madison in 2014 with degrees in Biology and Spanish (and a Certificate in Gender & Women’s Studies), she used her aquatic background to complete an internship with jellies at Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium before getting into invasive species work. In 2016, Mackenzie made the move to Arizona for her first of two 900-hour Corps Member terms and later helped facilitate the start of the Gulf Coast Division as a Crew Leader. After finding great fulfillment working as the Youth Programs Coordinator, Mackenzie is now happy to be a part of the Marketing & Communications Team as she works towards a graduate degree in Sustainable Communities. In her free time, Mackenzie enjoys a good nonfiction read, getting outside, and catching up with ACE family all around the country!
Joel served with ACE as a corpsmember and Crew Leader in the Southwest Division before departing to pursue new opportunities and finally returning! Joel has built many trails in his time working with various conservation organizations and the National Parks Service. Of those truly innumerable trails, the one that weathered the years the most stolidly was the trail that has led him back to ACE. A Washington native he grew up loving to spend time getting covered in dirt, a passion that has been foundational in his continuing career in conservation, and one that continues to be his guiding star.
Nick is a globally minded humanitarian with a wide array of teaching and leadership experiences. He graduated from Iowa State University in 2017 with a B.S. in Global Resource Systems and Environmental Science. Leading outdoor trips in the back and front country, collecting vegetative data for the US Forest Service in support of their conservation efforts of the Greater Sage Grouse and working on an organic and biodynamic farm with over 450 heirloom tomato varieties (and almost as many goats) are snapshots of the projects he has been involved in over the past few seasons. He continues to pursue a career that allows him to bring together and support young people for the achievement of an imperative, overarching mission- especially when it comes to restoring public lands!
Katie Lyon joined the USFWS Division as the National Trail Inventory Project/Data Manager in 2020. She previously worked with ACE and USFWS on the national visitor survey project and is excited to join the ACE team. Katie holds a bachelor’s in Natural Resource Recreation & Tourism and a master’s in Human Dimensions of Natural Resources from Colorado State University. She currently lives in Lander, WY, with her partner Chris and Aussie dog Alta, and enjoys gardening, climbing, hunting, and paddleboarding.
Mitch Bishop
Mitch grew up in central rural North Carolina where he went on to study Natural Resource Management and Forestry at Western Carolina University. He served with AmeriCorps NCCC and then transitioned into the conservation field, working for Coconino Rural Environmental Corps (C-REC) as a corps member then a mentor for YCC in Flagstaff, Arizona. Mitch continued in building his conservation experience working as a crew leader for The Conservation Corps of Minnesota and the Conservation Corps New Mexico. Outside the Corps world, he has worked in the outdoor recreation industry including guiding paddling trips, working as a camp counselor for a summer camp, and grooming ski trails in Colorado. Outside of the ACE office, Mitch can be found hiking, kayaking, and fly fishing across the southwest.
Christian graduated in 2015 from the University of Wyoming with a double major in Wildlife Biology and Environment & Natural Resources and a minor in Spanish. When not in school, Christian enjoyed summers with the Wyoming Conservation Corps leading crews, tracking lions in Kenya for his thesis, and wildland firefighting throughout the West. Luckily for Christian he was never eaten by any lions and he can now enjoy passing on his skills to future conservation superheroes who are pursuing their passions with ACE.
Alassane Naing joined the ACE team in 2019 as part of the ACEglobal division. Alassane works with all staff on basic administration, human resources, and program development. He is originally from Mali, Bamako, Africa but moved to the United States when he was seven years old. His first languages are French and Bamara, but he learned to also speak, read and write English upon arriving in Utah. Alassane is a black belt in Shotokan Karate and recently completed his final year of eligibility as a cornerback at the University of Utah Pac12 Football team. He is currently living in Salt Lake City, Utah and about to graduate from the University of Utah with a BS in Economics and a minor in Computer Literacy.
Jim Kuhn
Jim has been with ACE for over 10 years and oversees the maintenance and construction needs of all ACE properties in the Western ACE Divisions, including office spaces and member housing. When not at work, you may find him coaching the local high school cycling team or even out for a race himself. With over 20 years of cycling experience, Jim is constantly lending his expertise to help reconstruct and re-purpose bikes around the office.
Not only does Jim bring a lifetime of prestigious accomplishments and skills to his position but also invaluable kindness and dedication. Without him and the help of his team, we might quite literally fall apart at the studs!
Rafael Rosa joined ACE in 2020 as Chief Program Officer.
Rafael spent six years with the Student Conservation Association as a Regional Vice President for Partnerships (RVP) and Senior VP of Program. As an RVP his team was responsible for all SCA partnerships in a 16 state area. As SVP his team placed and supported 2500+ members each year.
Previous to SCA, Rafael spent 25 years in the museum environmental education and conservation field in Chicago. He led teams that developed and implemented environmental curriculum in museums, schools and in local communities with an emphasis on helping youth understand that despite living in an urban area they were not divorced from nature.
While not at work, Rafael enjoys spending time with his wife and sons who as a group have visited National Parks and other natural areas in 44 states and counting.
Jimmy first joined ACE as a volunteer in 2011. After catching the Conservation bug, Jimmy went back to School and graduated with an MSc in Applied Ecology and Conservation. Jimmy worked on numerous conservation projects in the UK, Indonesia and Australia as well as leading ACE crews in 2014-15 developing a passion for Trail work and dry-stone masonry, before moving into the role of Conservation Trainer & Coordinator in 2016. In his spare time, Jimmy enjoys exploring the Southwest, hiking, playing pool and trying not to fall off his mountain bike.
Travis joined the ACE team in the spring of 2017 to serve as project manager for the Sinkyone Wilderness trail building project. Travis joined ACE with a diverse background in conservation ranging from trails work with the Forest Service and volunteer work with Colorado’s Division of Parks and Wildlife, to managing fuels reduction, fire mitigation, and beetle kill forestry projects across the southwest. Hoping to turn his passion for conservation into a career, Travis recently returned to school and received a Master’s in Conservation Leadership from Colorado State University. He looks forward to continue working with ACE as a project manager and is excited to work alongside others who share his passion for the natural world.
Nathan was born and lived in Massachusetts. He graduated cum laude from SUNY: College of Environmental Science and Forestry with a B.S. in Environmental Biology. He has worked as a backcountry steward with the New York Department of Environmental Conservation, a Leader of the Youth Conservation Corps at Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, and part of an exotic plant management team at Lake Mead National Recreation Area before joining ACE Pacific West South as a crew leader in 2018. He was promoted to Project Manager in September 2019. He has led and managed a variety of projects with a focus on restoration projects throughout the Southern California area. Nathan enjoys cooking and baking, kayaking, hiking, and camping during his free time.
Michael grew up in a small town on Lake Ontario, just north of Buffalo, New York. He has a great love for the outdoors, especially hiking, climbing, hunting, fly fishing, mountain biking, and skiing. Michael is a recent graduate of George Mason University in Virginia, where he studied Conflict Analysis and Resolution and had a minor in Environmental Science. While living in Virginia, Michael worked at a local outfitter and discovered that his love of the outdoors was something he wanted to pursue not only in his personal life, but also in his professional. After school Michael worked as a Research Assistant with the Sierra Club Environmental Justice Program, where he did extensive research into the relationship between environmental degradation and community health as well as helped with events planning and promotion of a clean energy economy. He then set his eyes on Utah, a place he has always loved to visit for its incredible outdoor recreation opportunities. As the ACE Mountain West AmeriCorps Program Manager, Michael is enjoying the opportunity to be a part of direct conservation and improve the opportunities for others to get out and share in his own passion for the outdoors.
Joshua Burt began his conservation career in 2002 working as a conservation intern with the Student Conservation Association. Following that experience, he taught outdoor education in his home state of Ohio and continued leading trail crews for SCA in the summer. In 2005, Josh moved to China and taught English in Shandong province, but continued to return in the summer to lead trail crews. In 2007, he returned to the states more permanently and began working in various staff positions for Southwest Conservation corps. In 2011, he became the trail crew leader in Deep Creek District of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and there learned about ACE. He joined ACE as the Operations Manager of the North Carolina office in 2014.
Adam Scherm graduated with a Degree in Zoology and a minor in Spanish at Oklahoma State University. After college, Adam served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Panama focusing on environmental conservation from 2006-2008. That experience led him to apply for a job as an Assistant Crew Leader with ACE. After several months, he began leading crews on public lands all over the Southwest. In 2013, He assumed the role of Trails Trainer and Coordinator for the Arizona office. He managed the trails projects as well as trained crew leaders and corps members in technical rock work, rigging, trail maintenance, and layout. Adam is currently the Director of ACE’s Southeastern branch in Asheville, North Carolina which supports and manages 40 youth in conservation activities and is working with 6 different Land Management Agencies and non-profits.
Jen Wells
After graduating with a Biology degree from The College of New Jersey, she traveled across the country to work at Saguaro National Park as a Resource Management intern through American Conservation Experience. After falling in love with field work, she participated in another AmeriCorps term conducting vegetation surveys in National Parks and Monuments throughout Georgia and Florida. She then accepted a position back in her home state with The Nature Conservancy to implement floodplain restoration projects and river water quality monitoring in northwest New Jersey. She is now excited to return to ACE and help others engage with and serve our public lands as a Recruitment Specialist. In her free time, she loves to hike, volunteer at local animal shelters, and knit!
A love of animals led Madison into the world of conservation. After graduating with a degree in Zoology from North Carolina State University, she spent 6 months in South Africa interning at a nature reserve and volunteering with the Urban Caracal Project. When she got back to the US she switched focus from field work to community engagement and discovered AmeriCorps. While serving an AmeriCorps term at the North Carolina Coastal Federation, Madison had the opportunity to connect individuals to the environmental issues facing their communities. Later, as a Volunteer Specialist at the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), she connected volunteers to meaningful stewardship opportunities on public land. Madison is excited to return to North Carolina as ACE EPIC Eastern Regions Recruitment Specialist (NPS). In her free time, Madison enjoys baking, playing volleyball, and traveling with her husband.
Zoe grew up in central Virginia just outside of Shenandoah National Park. She first became interested in conservation when she signed up for a summer with the Virginia Youth Conservation Corps at the age of 14. Since then Zoe has crisscrossed the country and worked for a variety of environmental education and conservation focused organizations, including Coconino Rural Environment Corps, The Arboretum of Flagstaff, Outward Bound, Southeast Conservation Corps and Arizona Conservation Corps. Most recently at AZCC she was Recruitment and Member Support Director. When not at work Zoe can be found out hiking, working on silversmithing projects, or spending time with her husband and their two cats.
As the National Division Director for ACE EPIC, and its NPS partnerships, Peter oversees all aspects of project creation and management, ensuring that smooth and positive partnerships continue without a hitch.
Peter brings a host of conservation experiences from the field including backcountry patrol work in the Brooks Range and Yukon River of Alaska (NPS); resource management and environmental education as an AmeriCorps member in Barnstable Co, Massachusetts (DNR, NPS, and non-profit land trusts); wildlife monitoring in the Sierras (Sequoia National Forest, USFS); and vegetation dynamics research in Chobe National Park, Botswana. When he’s not working with talented EPIC Interns/Fellows and amazing NPS staff, Peter can likely be found running or backcountry skiing in the Wasatch, or traveling with his amazing wife.
Amanda is from Northeast Ohio but has spent the last 10 years calling Utah home. She graduated from the University of Utah in Environmental and Sustainability Studies as well as Geography. Her studies gave her opportunities to explore her new state and fall in love with the outdoors even more. She has spent multiple field seasons with the Vertebrate Zoology team of the Natural History Museum of Utah in areas across the state which has provided her knowledge in field research work and species population studies. Amanda has worked in multiple industries from restaurants to nonprofits and her unique experience brings passion to her work. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her dog, practicing yoga, painting, hiking and camping.
Caroline joined the ACE recruiting team in September 2019, coming from a background of environmental nonprofits. Originally an East Coaster, she grew up running canoes down rivers and there gained a deep love and respect for public lands and waterways. She received a degree in Environmental Management and Policy from the University of North Carolina- Asheville and promptly headed west to serve two terms with AmeriCorps NCCC and VIP, putting her in the field of wildfire restoration, trail work and environmental education up and down the Pacific coast. This landed her in Southern California for a time, working with a coastal protection nonprofit and recreation advocacy groups. Her love of alpine peaks and seasons brought her to Utah, where you’ll now almost always find her climbing her way through the canyons, enjoying long hikes into the backcountry and kicking back under the stars.
After years of bouncing around the west in various ecology and conservation positions, Josh returned to his native Utah as a BLM Recruitment specialist here at ACE. Josh began his career in academic research in ecology with a passion for plant-soil interactions and the mechanisms governing ecosystem fluxes. However, he continually found himself being pulled toward outreach and conservation. He enjoys learning about the various ways people interact with their environment and helping them expand their experience. Josh most recently led a youth conservation crew in the northern Sierra Nevadas, teaching them conservation work as well as camping and life skills. He’s excited to continue facilitating access to conservation opportunities. On his own time, Josh can be found travelling, playing the brazilian martial art Capoeira, hiking, camping, or just sitting around. He has recently decided to take up baking.
Celia began her conservation journey back in 2005 with the Western Colorado Conservation Corps on a saw crew and never looked back. Over the years she has worked for Acadia National Park, Appalachian Mountain Club, Amargosa Conservancy, Student Conservation Association and the Southeast Conservation Corps to build and maintain trails all over the U.S. while leading and managing youth and young adults in service to the land and surrounding communities. She enjoys reading and exploring all the nooks and crannies nature has to offer in her free time, no matter the urban or wild landscape!
Shayne has been a member of ACE’s Board of Directors since the spring of 2013. He has served as the chair of the board’s finance committee and served on the special committee charged with selecting ACE’s current CEO and President. Shayne brings experience in accounting, real estate transactions, finance and banking. He is currently the Chief Financial Officer of Youth Health Associates, Inc. located in Salt Lake City, Utah. He has held previous positions as a controller and analyst for small companies in real estate and construction and in business banking with US Bank. Shayne lives with his family in Sandy, Utah and enjoys Utah’s variety of outdoor recreation opportunities, especially the world-class fly fishing.
Jeanne Wade Evans served as the Deputy Regional Forester for the Pacific Southwest Region of the U.S. Forest Service for seven years before retiring in 2017. In her final leadership role, she directed all State and Private Forestry programs in California, Hawaii and the U.S. Pacific Islands. She also strategically led Fire, Aviation, Safety and Acquisition programs for the region affecting 18 National Forests, 8000 employees and annual budgets of over $500 million. She held numerous other leadership positions over her 40 years of public service.
Previous to that position, Jeanne served as the Forest Supervisor of the San Bernardino National Forest in southern California where she led over 600 employees through large organizational change and delivered numerous programs to improve the public forest experience and land stewardship. Prior to this assignment she spent six years at the Forest Service National headquarters in Washington D. C. focused on solving Fire, Aviation, Forestry, Range, Partnership and Legislative issues that impacted the entire agency. She did this in her roles as Deputy Director for Forest and Rangelands, Policy Specialist for Fire and Aviation, National Fire Plan Coordinator, and as the agency representative to the White House Conference on Cooperative Conservation.
Before beginning her service in the Forest Service’s National headquarters, Jeanne worked for 22 years in various Forest Service field positions in Arizona. She immensely enjoyed her role as District Ranger on the Coronado National Forest in southeastern Arizona believing that this is where a direct impact on land stewardship occurs. She began her Forest Service career in 1977 on the Coconino National Forest in Arizona as a Range Conservationist. Jeanne received her Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Resources from Arizona State University, completed course work in Environmental Policy at the University of Arizona and is a graduate of the Senior Executive Fellows Program at Harvard. She was committed to continuous learning over her career and focused on leadership development for her employees. She still mentors those in the agency.
Jeanne demonstrated commitment to partnerships throughout her career. She realized that it is in the public interest to bring together those who care about land stewardship through collaborative public private business models. She partnered with many different conservation corps and conservation organizations over the years to achieve ecological restoration on the ground. Her passion was doing all she could to insure everyone arrived home safely after every work assignment. To that end, she helped lead the Forest Service through a leader engagement strategy with a focus on being a learning organization. During her tenure safety and risk management saw increased focused leadership attention at all levels of the organization and reduction in serious injuries and fatalities.
Jeanne has been connected to the outdoors since she was a young girl camping and fishing in the Rocky Mountains with her family. She currently spends time enjoying and sharing experiences with her young grandchildren when she is not traveling.
Bob is currently the executive director of Windsor County Mentors, a nonprofit organization supporting youth mentoring in local Vermont communities. His career passion has been imagining and creating youth and young adult national and community service programs in the out-of-doors. Following two years of service in the United States Peace Corps, Bob completed a master’s in public administration degree from the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University where he was involved in hosting the first AmeriCorps national service conference. He joined the Student Conservation Association in 1994 as the Director of the New Hampshire Conservation Corps.
Over the next 20 years he played leadership roles in SCA’s Northeast, California-Southwest and Midwest regions. As Senior Vice President for Programs, he helped to lead SCA’s national program growth and revenue. He is proudest of having created six residential SCA AmeriCorps programs that have provided hundreds of young people with an opportunity to serve on public lands.Bob joined the Vermont Conservation Corps in 2015 where he served as chief Operations Officer strengthening program quality, risk management and developing educational outcomes.
He served six years as a board member of National Association of Service and Conservation Corps now the Corps Network.Bob attended the University of New Hampshire after which he worked for United States Senator Warren Rudman (R-New Hampshire) on Capitol Hill, in Washington, DC.
He served in the United States National Guard and Reserve.
Bob lives in South Pomfret, Vermont with his wife Philippa Richards and their three children, Claire, Will and Ian plus a barn yard of animals.
Mark came to ACE in 2011 as the winner of a nationwide search for a trainer with multipe years of technical trails experience with land management agencies. Mark spent 4 years learning dry stone manonry and trail construction technique with the US Forest Service in Lake Tahoe, 4 more years leading Youth Conservation Corps crews and refining rock working skills as a member of the trail crews at Grand Tetons National Park and Saguaro National Park, and participated in a trail crew exchange with the Argentina Park Service.
George joined ACE in 2017 as an AmeriCorps and US Forest Service Program Manager. Prior to joining ACE, George spent 10 years working with non-profits in various capacities, including leading trail crews along the Pacific Crest Trail and in the Central Wasatch, coordinating individually placed environmental interns in the northwest, guiding youth leadership development as far as Peru, and even stacking books at the local library. Most recently, George ran operations for a local non-profit which works closely with land management organizations to fill the needed void in stewardship and education programs in the extremely busy Cottonwood Canyons of Salt Lake City. Perhaps more interesting than his work experience, George can often be found exploring on foot or by boat, and enjoys reminiscing of adventures gone awry, or of his 11-month residency in a tree house in Southern Washington.
Chris has an extensive background in conservation and resource management, most recently spending the past six years with the Student Conservation Association in a variety of roles. As Vice President of Partnership, his responsibilities included program and partnership development, government relations, and staff management.
Originally from England, Chris took the opportunity after university to come to the United States and work for the US Forest Service in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Oregon. Subsequently, Chris moved to Arizona and spent 8 years working for the City of Phoenix operating outdoor recreation programming for youth and people with disabilities, before moving back to
Oregon taking the position of Recreation Manager for Oregon State University, College Forests, in Corvallis Oregon, Chris holds degrees from Writtle College, England in Rural Resource Management, and Arizona State University in Recreation Management.
Before joining ACE, Randy spent the last fourteen years with the Student Conservation Association in various management and operations roles. During his time with SCA, he oversaw program development, financial management, compliance, and risk management for upwards of ten regional urban conservation programs. This included development and management of a state-wide workforce development program with the State of Pennsylvania. He also emerged as member and leader trainer on topics such as member experience, risk management, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Before the glow of the conservation world drew him in, Randy spent time with Job Corps recruiting and placing participants. Prior to that he spent three years as a Child Life Specialist providing psychosocial care to children at a teaching hospital. With close to twenty years of experience with youth and young adults through non-profits, he is thrilled to continue his career with an organization dedicated to conservation service. When away from his desk, you can find Randy coaching high school and youth sports and spending time outdoors with his wife and two daughters..
James joined the American Conservation Experience EPIC team in November 2014 as an Administrative and Office Assistant where he is great asset to the team with his conservation and technology background. He now supports the office as the Tech Support Specialist. James began his tenure with ACE as a OHV Trail Technician Intern with BLM where he designed and implemented strategies to maintain OHV trails. He then worked as a Backcountry Wilderness Trail team member in the high sierras building and maintaining wilderness trails.
Outdoor pursuits have always been central to my experience – from hiking trips through the National Parks as a child, to living off the grid in a yurt in Washington state, I’ve always been very close to the land. The opportunity to work with ACE and promote the values of land stewardship I believe in is an opportunity I am very excited to pursue. I have a wonderful family – my wife Kaitlin is an extremely qualified sea kayaker, and my daughter, Emmy, is in training for all these activities. If you want to catch me when I’m not at work chances are I’ll be hitting the slopes in the cottonwood canyons, or looking for waves somewhere exotic, if I’m lucky.
Heather grew up in the deep south – Memphis, TN – with cotton fields surrounding her high school. After graduating, she moved to Flagstaff to pursue a degree in Mathematics. In college she ended up switching her major about 5 times, so like any early twenty something year old, she moved to Portland, OR to find what she was passionate about career-wise. Life led her back to Flagstaff, college goals changed to Accounting, her beautiful daughter Rosalie arrived and work took a turn to the dental industry. Still feeling that accounting/mathematics nudge, she joined the ACE finance team. Heather manages our Accounts Payables and all things credit card. Her work with ACE will help hone her Accounting skills so that she can finish her degree, once her daughter starts Kindergarten.
ACE is lucky to have recruited such a smart, organized and amazing finance-minded addition to our staff.
After spending 20 years in various roles with ADP in Seattle, I spent a couple years living on Maui working for the Pacific Whale Foundation running AP and Payroll. I relocated back to Arizona in 2016 and spent a year and a half running payroll for a commercial sign and lighting company in Tucson, and also spent some time working for the city of Tucson. I have always been an advocate for the environment, and an avid outdoorsman. I am pleased to bring my many years of accounting and payroll knowledge to ACE, and my goal is to bring an easier and more user friendly payroll process to all staff and interns.
When not at work I enjoy hiking, camping, skiing, snowshoeing and photography. I enjoy traveling and exploring our national parks.
Colin moved to Flagstaff from Northern New Jersey in 2006 to continue his education and enjoy the abundant opportunities to play in the outdoors. After graduating from Northern Arizona University in the winter of 2008 Colin began working with ACE as a crew leader the following summer. Following several successful seasons of leading trail crews throughout Arizona and Utah he moved into the newly developed Safety Coordinator position where he now performs risk management and training duties for all of ACE’s programs. In addition to his regular duties, Colin is a Wilderness Medicine instructor and licensed contractor for ACE. When not at work Colin is an active climber, mountain biker, boater, and disc golfer.
Laura Herrin joined ACE in 2018 as President and CEO.
Laura has a long tenure working in the youth conservation arena serving fifteen years with the Student Conservation Association in numerous roles, ultimately as the Senior Vice President for Program. In this role, Laura was responsible for all aspects of program and partnership development and implementation, risk management and safety, and organizational growth. In her tenure she implemented a number of initiatives including summer youth employment programs and conservation service programs for urban and underrepresented youth.
Most recently Laura worked with the Corps Network overseeing fund development and partnerships for the membership organization supporting the work of more than 130 Service and Conservation Corps across the country.
Laura’s professional career has always been in the non profit space and includes work with Children Youth and Families as well as the US Ski Association.
Laura holds a bachelor’s degree from Wheaton College and a Master’s degree in Organizational Management and Leadership. Additionally, she is a certified black belt in Innovation Engineering.
| 112,044 |
“As many as three out of four people die in North America without a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.”[1] Where do people go without a personal relationship with Jesus Christ? According to the Bible the answer is hell. They go forever to this place of torment without God and without hope. Someone said there are a million ways to go to hell but only one way to go to heaven, through Jesus Christ, “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6a).
God’s Plan for Sharing also known as GPS is the evangelistic emphasis for Southern Baptists encouraged through the North American Mission Board. Let us explore three areas related to this vital endeavor.
Apprehension about Sharing
Some are apprehensive about being a verbal witness. Dr. Richard H. Seume, former chaplain at Dallas Theological Seminary, states, “We were not converted to be introverted.” We must remember that Jesus Christ is in us, with us and upon us to share the good news of the Gospel.
Jesus Christ is in us, as we read in Colossians 1:27, “To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.”
Jesus Christ is with us, as we read in Matthew 28:20b, “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” We discover this promise echoed and expanded in Hebrews 13:5-6, “Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’ So we may boldly say: / The LORD is my helper; / I will not fear. What can man do to me?”
Jesus Christ is upon us, as we read in Acts 1:8, “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” We know from Romans 8:9b, “Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His.” Paul refers to the Holy Spirit as “the Spirit of Christ.”
This is how Jesus Christ can be in us, with us and upon us, by the Holy Spirit. When the Holy Spirit comes upon us it is for anointing us to serve in a specific calling. Remember when Saul, Israel’s first human king was rejected from being king due to disobedience, the anointing of the Holy Spirit upon him was withdrawn. David, who became king after Saul, expresses in Psalm 51:11, “Do not cast me away from Your presence, / And do not take Your Holy Spirit from me.” David here refers to the anointing of the Holy Spirit. He did not want to experience the same thing Saul did. David repented wholeheartedly while Saul repented half-heartedly. This is the difference between David and Saul.
Jesus gave an extended teaching on the promised Holy Spirit recorded in John 14 through 16. Southern Baptist Missionary, Bertha Smith, had a good understanding of the work of the Holy Spirit as demonstrated in her book titled How the Spirit Filled My Life and another titled Go Home and Tell. She was part of that great movement of God in China called the Shantung Revival.
Approach for Sharing
Dr. Josh McDowell reportedly said, “If we are to reach this emerging generation for Christ, it must be through pure evangelism.” I sense that young people today are looking for answers and they want to know the truth. We need to share the message of the gospel from the Bible.
The Great Commission source book is the Bible. Dr. O.S. Hawkins, President and Chief Executive Officer of GuideStone Financial Resources, shares the following about the Great Commission in Where Angels Fear To Tread: Confronting Seven Vital Issues Facing the Church, “Matthew’s account of the Great Commission [Matthew 28:18-20] gives us the Mechanics (we are to ‘make’ disciples, ‘mark’ them by baptism, and ‘mature’ them in the faith). These are the mechanics of the Great Commission. [Note our Lord commissions us to make disciples not merely converts.] Mark’s account of the Great Commission [Mark 16:15] gives us the Measure of it. We are to take this gospel to the whole world. [This is an important point. There is no other way for people to be saved and to go to heaven. It is not the way of the Hindu, or the way of the Buddhist, or the way of the Confucianist, it is the way of Jesus Christ or nothing at all. No matter what world religion or cult a person may ascribe, without Jesus they are lost. The gospel is the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ, as recorded in 1 Corinthians 15:3-4.] Luke’s account of the Great Commission gives us the Message of it. What is it? (Luke 24:47) —“That repentance and remission of sins should be preached in . . . . all nations.”[2]
Recently, Alan and Dorothy Harbison shared some wonderful books from their library. One of those books was by Dr. Eugene Perry [E. P.] Alldredge (1875-1953) titled 101 Expository Sermon Outlines, published by Broadman Press in Nashville (1941). It is interesting to note that Alldredge simply titles the first section, “Repentance”. Regrettably, this word is conspicuously absent from the sermons of “Dr. Feelgood” and the seminars of “Professor Sounding Brass” in this day of positive thinking and preaching. Jesus clearly explains the need for repentance (Luke 13:3,5) as does Peter (Acts 2:38) and Paul (Acts 17:30-31). Many people will simply add a belief in Jesus to the other things they believe. This is not biblical salvation. Soteriology or the doctrine of salvation includes both repentance and faith. We read the following in the Baptist Faith & Message 2000, “Repentance is a genuine turning from sin toward God. Faith is the acceptance of Jesus Christ and commitment of the entire personality to Him as Lord and Saviour.”[3] Paul writes about those in Thessalonica, “For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come” (1 Thessalonians 1:9-10).
God’s Plan for Sharing presents a biblical approach to accomplishing the task assigned to every believer. Evangelism is one thing we will not be able to do in eternity. Mark Cahill, who once played basketball for Auburn University on the same team with Charles Barkley, wrote a book titled, One Thing You Can’t Do in Heaven.
Dr. Les Hughes, Senior Pastor of the Westwood Baptist Church in Alabaster, Alabama, makes the following statement in his book titled The Sound of God’s Applause: Living a Life that Glorifies the Father, “If our service is only for people, we have to depend on people for our reward. Often a reward doesn’t come at all. Even when people do reward and applaud me, the favor of people is nothing compared to God’s blessing. Human approval is temporary; God’s approval is eternal.”[4] May we wait to hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord” (Matthew 25:21). The Lord commissioned Isaiah to share the message without the trappings of external success (Isaiah 6:1-13). We too are called to be faithful not necessarily successful.
The Apostle Paul warns, “Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord comes, who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the counsels of the hearts. Then each one’s praise will come from God” (1 Corinthians 4:5).
British Evangelist, Leonard Ravenhill (1907-1994), powerfully and persuasively preached on “The Judgment Seat of Christ.” We read about it in Romans 14:7-13, “For none of us lives to himself, and no one dies to himself. For if we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. Therefore, whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s. For to this end Christ died and rose and lived again, that He might be Lord of both the dead and the living. But why do you judge your brother? Or why do you show contempt for your brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. For it is written: ‘As I live, says the LORD, / Every knee shall bow to Me, / And every tongue shall confess to God.’ So then each of us shall give account of himself to God. Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother’s way.” Also in 2 Corinthians 5:9-11 we read, “Therefore we make it our aim, whether present or absent, to be well pleasing to Him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad. Knowing, therefore, the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are well known to God, and I also trust are well known in your consciences.”
Please note there is no judgment to determine whether a person goes to heaven or hell. Some people think there will be a judgment where God will measure our good works against our bad works and if we have enough good works we go to heaven and if not we go to hell. The Bible does teach about “The Great White Throne Judgment” for retribution of unbelievers in hell. We read in Revelation 20:11-15, “Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away. And there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books. The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.”
Everyone will either go to heaven or hell. Dr. Vance Havner said it years ago: “The great tragedy of our day is that the situation is desperate but the saints are not.”
Do you remember the road signs that carried the message of Amos 4:12? They simply read, “Prepare to meet thy God”.
Dr. C. Sumner Wemp, author of many books to include, The Guide to Practical Pastoring, sent the following via e-mail: “Look what else God did to get me saved. The next Friday the young people had a social and I was heartily invited. It was of God, for I saw a group of real Christians. There was so much joy and laughing but no cursing, no smoking, no drinking or drugs and yet all were having a really great time. Jake was there as he worked with young people. He got me alone and ask kindly if I was a Christian. That hit me right square in the heart. When I said I was not he graciously said, you ought to be and I hope you think about it. Well I did and I know it was because here was someone genuinely interested in me. I loved Jake like a father (he is in heaven now) but he failed and most of us do the same. He did not tell ‘how’ to become a Christian. He did not give me the gospel as Jesus told us to do Mark 16:15. I am sure as I am sitting here if he had given me the gospel, I would have accepted Christ that very night. I wanted and knew I needed what I was seeing right there.
In our churches we must do everything we do to include a soul winning effort along with the social side. It has been my joy to speak to very many church banquets, socials etc, and give the gospel along with the primary message of the occasion. Then I give an invitation for people to believe the gospel and receive the Lord Jesus as their personal Savior in the closing prayer. My joy has been to see hundreds saved at them. At a Sunday School teachers Christmas banquet, one ladies class teacher’s unsaved husband came just for his wife’s sake. He heard me give the gospel and prayed to receive the Lord Jesus as his Savior during the closing prayer and looked up at me to let me know he received the Lord Jesus. After the closing, I ambled over to him. He assured me he was saved. I asked if he could tell his wife right now. We called her over, he told her, ‘I got saved tonight’ and heaven came down. Dozens came over to rejoice with them. THAT is the way all socials and meetings ought to be conducted and concluded. We would change the whole world if we ALL, including YOU, made winning the lost the primary purpose of all we do. Jesus said, ‘Preach the gospel to EVERY person’.”[5]
Make sure that you truly know Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord by repentance of sin and faith in His death, burial and resurrection for the forgiveness of your sin. If you do not know Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord you can pray a prayer like this:
Dear God, I know that I am a sinner, in thought, in word and in deed. I am a sinner by nature and a sinner by choice. I believe that Jesus died on the cross for the forgiveness of my sin and that he rose from the grave on the third day. I ask Jesus to take over my life and to be my Savior, my Lord, and my King. Thank you for giving me the forgiveness of my sin and everlasting life. Amen.
May the Lord use each one of us as we follow God’s Plan for Sharing.
[5]C. Sumner Wemp, “Look what else God did to get me saved.” via e-mail 02/27/10
Author
Recent Posts
Pastor at First Baptist Church, Spanish Fort, AL
Dr. Franklin L. Kirksey is pastor of First Baptist Church of Spanish Fort, Alabama where he has served since 2004. Kirksey was called to the ministry after high school graduation in 1979 and has been a pastor for over twenty five years. He has served churches in Alabama, Mississippi and South Carolina.
| 14,085 |
Tour operators say they will continue to offer trips to see lava flowing into the ocean off Hawaii's Big Island.
Revised U.S. Coast Guard policies will require all tour boat to remain at least 984 feet (300 meters) from the lava flow.
Lava exploded onto a tour boat off the Big Island of Hawaii on Monday morning.
The explosion injured 23 people as it sent rocks and debris into the air, landing on the boat.
A day after 23 people were injured after lava exploded near a tour boat, tour operators say they will continue to offer trips to see lava flowing into the ocean off Hawaii's Big Island.
While the tours near Kapoho will continue, the operators say they will adhere to a revised Coast Guard policy that stipulates that boats must keep a safe distance from the lava, the Associated Press reports.
Boats are prohibited from getting any closer than 984 feet (300 meters) from where lava flows into the ocean. Previously, some more experienced boat captains could apply for a special permit, allowing them within a distance of 164 feet (50 meters).
After Monday's incident, the Coast Guard immediately revoked all special permits, and all boat operators will now be required to remain 984 feet from the lava.
Monday's explosion sent rocks and debris into the air, landing on a tour boat off the coast of Kapoho, Hawaii, according to Hawaii News Now (HNN).
A "basketball-sized" lava bomb punctured a large hole in the boat's roof, county officials said.
Shane Turpin, owner and captain of the vessel that was hit, told the AP he never saw the explosion that rained molten rocks down on top of his boat.
"As we were exiting the zone, all of a sudden everything around us exploded," he said. "It was everywhere."
Turpin has been navigating lava tour boats for many years and said that this type of activity is new. There were no warning signs before the blast, he added.
Four of those injured on the tour boat operated by Lava Ocean Tours were transported by ambulance to Hilo Medical Center in Hilo, shortly after the boat returned to Wailoa Small Boat Harbor in Hilo around 7 a.m. HST, HNN reported.
Three of the four were in stable condition, while one was a 20-year-old in serious condition with a fractured femur, according to the state Department of Land and Natural Resources.
Nine of the injured were able to drive themselves to the emergency room, Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim’s spokeswoman Janet Snyder told the Hawaii Tribune-Herald. An additional 10 passengers were treated at the scene for superficial injuries, she added.
The remaining passengers aboard the tour boat suffered burns, scrapes and other superficial injuries, according to the AP.
Officials told HNN there were 52 people – 49 passengers and three crew members – aboard the tour boat during Monday morning's incident. The boat takes visitors to see lava plunging into the ocean from the Kilauea volcano that has been erupting since May 3, the AP reported.
The Coast Guard, along with state and local officials, are investigating the incident.
Coast Guard spokesman Petty Officer 3rd Class Matthew West told the AP the agency can't say whether it will change its safety zone rules until it finishes its investigation.
Local residents who rely heavily on the income produced by the lava tours are worried Monday's incident could ultimately put a halt to tours.
"If we stop operating, it not only hurts us, it hurts the community," Moku Nui Lava Tours Captain Kanoa Jones told the AP.
| 3,554 |
I am 16 and driving fast down a long, straight stretch of road leading from one nowhere to another, the road an abandoned ribbon of gradual dips and rises, trees crowding in from either side, a strip of night sky illuminated by moonlight, and I can see how, at this time of night, and at this speed, and with the wind rushing past like a huge loping animal, I can see how the Trans Am leapt the road and flew like a fast-pitch baseball right through the buckeye tree, then cottonwood and ash, the car leaping and rolling long after Bobby Lee has been flung from the flying steel, long after his neck snapped and his wide eyes saw moonlight and leaves and then nothing at all, the car flipping, tires thrown wild, bent fender and broken window glass, tail light and hub caps, the disco music thumping, radio intact long past Bobby Lee’s ability to hear it.
Bobby Lee, cousin of the first kiss, the kiss of beer and cigarettes. Now I drive this highway fast and sober, no music to mourn this anniversary.
“Don’t you go out there,” Mother said to me after fried chicken and creamed corn, the six of us kids and Mother and Daddy all eating in silence, no one saying Bobby Lee’s name, no one saying, “One year ago this minute he was not yet dead,” but me thinking with every bite that one year ago this minute we had not yet fought about his drinking, which he wouldn’t quit, and my virginity, which I intended to keep.
Now I am driving fast down Bobby Lee’s last road after backing out of the driveway, tires spitting gravel, Mother running after the car screaming at me not to go, just as I had run after Bobby Lee’s tricked-out Trans Am, screaming at him not to go, and now with the broken trees overgrown again and reaching for me as I pass, I know exactly where Bobby Lee’s car went off the road, and I know as I slow my car on this ribbon road that there was no accident here, just Bobby Lee taking his left hand off of the steering wheel, maybe holding that hand out the car window as I’ve seen him do so many times, to let the rush of air pull the hand down and up and down again, and then his beer hand twitching the steering wheel before the decision could be unmade. I know this as sure as I know Bobby Lee, and I slow, pull over, and park on the scarred earth where Bobby Lee’s car took flight.
Niya says:
March 6, 2012 at 7:11 pm
“an abandoned ribbon of gradual dips and rises”
Gorgeous writing…compelling.
March 6, 2012 at 7:12 pm
I admire the transcendence of this piece which took me along so many roads as I was reading it.
March 6, 2012 at 7:12 pm
Verna, you took my breath away with your descriptions. To be able to convey so much in such a short amount of space is amazing. Thank you.
Terry says:
March 6, 2012 at 7:12 pm
That gave me a chill down my back – great writing Verna!
Leave a Reply to Niya Cancel reply
Δ
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
Previous Previous post: 4 Pound Boyfriend by Niya C. Sisk
Next Next post: Blue Moon by Verna Wilder
© 2010-2022 Curly Red Stories publishes flash fiction stories and author interviews. All rights reserved.
| 3,281 |
The Lifetime Engine Warranty applies to all new non-commercial vehicles. It also applies to 95%+ of the used vehicles we sell. All used non-commercial vehicles that are less than 10 years old & that have 80,000 miles or less at the time of sale are covered by the Lifetime Engine Warranty.
How long does the Lifetime Engine Warranty last?
The Lifetime Engine Warranty is valid for as long as you own the vehicle – for an unlimited time, unlimited miles.
How much extra will it cost?
Nothing! The Lifetime Engine Warranty comes with the selling price of the vehicle.
Do I have to get all my service at Quirk?
No. Although we hope you do! We have state-of-the-art facilities and factory-trained technicians that are aiming to keep you safe and get you back on the road quickly. To maintain the warranty, you must perform the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance and keep your records. That’s all there is to it!
What is covered under the Lifetime Engine Warranty?
The Lifetime Engine Warranty covers engine components, and related labor. All internally lubricated parts contained within the engine block and cylinder head(s) including: piston, piston rings, wrist pings and bushings, connecting rods and rod bearings, crankshaft and main bearings, camshaft, cam chains, cam bearings and cam cover, timing chain, gears, tensioner and guide, variable valve, timing parts, rocker arms, shafts and bushings, rocker arm pivots, adjustments screws, spring and tension controller, valves, valve seats, valve springs, valve spring retainers, valve guides, valve push roads, hydraulic valve lifters, oil pump, oil pump drive, shaft and gears. Cylinder head, engine block and rotor housings when damaged as a result of the failure of a covered internally lubricated part. Seals and gaskets when required in connection with the repair or replacement of a covered part. Coolant, lubricants and oil filters when required in connection with the repair or replacement of a covered part.
If I sell the car does the Lifetime Engine Warranty go with it?
No. The Lifetime Engine Warranty is not transferable. If you buy it from Quirk, it’s good for as long as you own the vehicle.
Who backs the Lifetime Engine Warranty?
The Lifetime Engine Warranty is backed by Zurich Insurance Company. Zurich is one of the largest insurance companies in the world and the largest automotive dealer insurance provider. Zurich is an AM Best A+ rated company.
What is the Quirk Works Bundle?
The Quirk Works Bundle provides complimentary coverage for:
You also get Unlimited Paintless Dent Removal for dings and dents.
Additional benefits include: Roadside assistance and Trip Interruption.
How much extra will it cost?
Nothing! The Quirk Works Bundle comes with the lease of the vehicle.
How long does the Quirk Works Bundle Last?
Three years from the lease date.
Which vehicles are covered?
Any new leased vehicle (excluding those used for commercial purposes).
Can I upgrade for additional coverages?
Yes! There are upgrades available to cover your tires and rims against damage, as well as complete Lease Wear & Tear coverage providing convenience, and reducing liability at lease end. Ask any Quirk Team Member about upgrade availability.
Additional Details:
Quirk Works Bundle is administered and insured by Zurich Insurance, an AM Best A+ rated insurer. Lost/stolen/damaged key benefit total maximum is $500 for 36-month period. Paintless Dent Repair applies to dings/dents 3 inches or smaller where the paint has not been damaged, on a vehicle panel accessible by paintless dent removal technician. See contract for complete terms and details. Quirk Works Protection Bundle ends at lease termination and is non-transferrable.
| 3,764 |
In my last message to you, I wrote about how at BGC we’ve honed our approach to working with kids by creating an environment and experience that feels very different to them: BGC is a place where they WANT to be, and where they, without even noticing, experience enduring, positive change as a result of being in a Club or at Camp Potlatch (or both).
That enduring change is really all about helping them to grow up to be their best selves, protecting them from being defined by the challenges they experience in childhood, and setting them up to have a great life.
Having skills to develop positive relationships, healthy living habits like being physically active and making good food choices, developing an inclination for lifelong learning, and having opportunities to lead from their own individual strengths and gifts are outcomes that are proven to contribute to a great adult life, and that’s why everything we do at BGC pushes toward those for our kids and youth.
Click here to be a part of the enduring change that our kids and youth will feel this summer.
President & CEO of Parks, Picnics and Popsicles
PreviousPrevious post:Summer is coming!NextNext post:I’m so happy you believe every kid is amazing, just like we do
| 1,294 |
The Folkway project founded in 2016, it is located in Northern Greece, based in Thessaloniki and its main occupation focuses on the field of folklore and alternative tourism at the same way.
The Folkway is the evolution of Propantos fork and it is currently active in the organi-
zation of cultural festivals, seminars, confe-
rences and other educational programs and activities with folklore character.
Our experience, our ideas, our know-how in accordance with our professionalism and creative approach combined with the realibility and loyalty of OPEN WAYS, ensuring quality and success in all our folklore events.
Recent Posts
Santuri (Zither): Α stringed instrument widely developed by the Greeks in Asia Minor. 22 February 2016
| 734 |
The mountain live oak, common here and a thousand feet or so higher, is like the live oak of Florida, not only in general appearance, foliage, bark, and wide-branching habit, but in its tough, knotty, unwedgeable wood. Standing alone with plenty of elbow room, the largest trees are about seven to eight feet in diameter near the ground, sixty feet high, and as wide or wider across the head. The leaves are small and undivided, mostly without teeth or wavy edging, though on young shoots some are sharply serrated, both kinds being found on the same tree. The cups of the medium-sized acorns are shallow, thick walled, and covered with a golden dust of minute hairs. Some of the trees have hardly any main trunk, dividing near the ground into large wide-spreading limbs, and these, dividing again and again, terminate in long, drooping, cord-like branchlets, many of which reach nearly to the ground, while a dense canopy of short, shining, leafy branchlets forms a round head which looks[Pg 39] something like a cumulus cloud when the sunshine is pouring over it.Then the lolling, panting flocks and herds are driven to the high, cool, green pastures of the Sierra. I was longing for the mountains about this time, but money was scarce and I couldn’t see how a bread supply was to be kept up. While I was anxiously brooding on the bread problem, so troublesome to wanderers, and trying to believe that I might learn to live like the wild animals, gleaning nourishment here and there from seeds, berries, etc., sauntering and climbing in joyful independence[Pg 4] of money or baggage, Mr. Delaney, a sheep-owner, for whom I had worked a few weeks, called on me, and offered to engage me to go with his shepherd and flock to the headwaters of the Merced and Tuolumne rivers—the very region I had most in mind. I was in the mood to accept work of any kind that would take me into the mountains whose treasures I had tasted last summer in the Yosemite region. The flock, he explained, would be moved gradually higher through the successive forest belts as the snow melted, stopping for a few weeks at the best places we came to. These I thought would be good centers of observation from which I might be able to make many telling excursions within a radius of eight or ten miles of the camps to learn something of the plants, animals, and rocks; for he assured me that I should be left perfectly free to follow my studies. I judged, however, that I was in no way the right man for the place, and freely explained my shortcomings, confessing that I was wholly unacquainted with the topography of the upper mountains, the streams that would have to be crossed, and the wild sheep-eating animals, etc.; in short that, what with bears, coyotes, rivers, cañons, and thorny, bewildering chaparral, I feared that half or more of his flock would be lost. Fortunately these shortcom[Pg 5]ings seemed insignificant to Mr. Delaney. The main thing, he said, was to have a man about the camp whom he could trust to see that the shepherd did his duty, and he assured me that the difficulties that seemed so formidable at a distance would vanish as we went on; encouraging me further by saying that the shepherd would do all the herding, that I could study plants and rocks and scenery as much as I liked, and that he would himself accompany us to the first main camp and make occasional visits to our higher ones to replenish our store of provisions and see how we prospered. Therefore I concluded to go, though still fearing, when I saw the silly sheep bouncing one by one through the narrow gate of the home corral to be counted, that of the two thousand and fifty many would never return.
In a few hours the inclosure was completed, and the silly animals were driven in and rammed hard against the brink of the ford.[Pg 113] Then the Don, forcing a way through the compacted mass, pitched a few of the terrified unfortunates into the stream by main strength; but instead of crossing over, they swam about close to the bank, making desperate attempts to get back into the flock. Then a dozen or more were shoved off, and the Don, tall like a crane and a good natural wader, jumped in after them, seized a struggling wether, and dragged it to the opposite shore. But no sooner did he let it go than it jumped into the stream and swam back to its frightened companions in the corral, thus manifesting sheep-nature as unchangeable as gravitation. Pan with his pipes would have had no better luck, I fear. We were now pretty well baffled. The silly creatures would suffer any sort of death rather than cross that stream. Calling a council, the dripping Don declared that starvation was now the only likely scheme to try, and that we might as well camp here in comfort and let the besieged flock grow hungry and cool, and come to their senses, if they had any. In a few minutes after being thus let alone, an adventurer in the foremost rank plunged in and swam bravely to the farther shore. Then suddenly all rushed in pell-mell together, trampling one another under water, while we vainly tried to hold them back. The Don jumped into the[Pg 114] thickest of the gasping, gurgling, drowning mass, and shoved them right and left as if each sheep was a piece of floating timber. The current also served to drift them apart; a long bent column was soon formed, and in a few minutes all were over and began baaing and feeding as if nothing out of the common had happened. That none were drowned seems wonderful. I fully expected that hundreds would gain the romantic fate of being swept into Yosemite over the highest waterfall in the world.
September 6. Still another perfectly cloudless day, purple evening and morning, all the middle hours one mass of pure serene sunshine. Soon after sunrise the air grew warm, and there was no wind. One naturally halted to see what Nature intended to do. There is a suggestion of real Indian summer in the hushed brooding, faintly hazy weather. The yellow atmosphere, though thin, is still plainly of the same general character as that of eastern[Pg 246] Indian summer. The peculiar mellowness is perhaps in part caused by myriads of ripe spores adrift in the sky.June 5. This morning a few hours after setting out with the crawling sheep-cloud, we gained the summit of the first well-defined bench on the mountain-flank at Pino Blanco. The Sabine pines interest me greatly. They are so airy and strangely palm-like I was eager to sketch them, and was in a fever of excitement without accomplishing much. I managed to halt long enough, however, to make a tolerably fair sketch of Pino Blanco peak from the southwest side, where there is a small field and vineyard irrigated by a stream that makes a pretty fall on its way down a gorge by the roadside.Up through the woods the hoofed locusts streamed beneath a cloud of brown dust. Scarcely were they driven a hundred yards from the old corral ere they seemed to know that at last they were going to new pastures, and rushed wildly ahead, crowding through gaps in the brush, jumping, tumbling like exulting hurrahing flood-waters escaping through a broken dam. A man on each flank kept shouting advice to the leaders, who in their famishing condition were behaving like Gadarene swine; two other drivers were busy with stragglers, helping them out of brush tangles; the Indian, calm, alert, silently watched for wanderers likely to be overlooked; the two dogs ran here and there, at a loss to know what was best to be done, while the Don,[Pg 87] soon far in the rear, was trying to keep in sight of his troublesome wealth.
June 17. Counted the wool bundles this morning as they bounced through the narrow corral gate. About three hundred are missing, and as the shepherd could not go to seek them, I had to go. I tied a crust of bread to my belt, and with Carlo set out for the upper slopes of the Pilot Peak Ridge, and had a good day, notwithstanding the care of seeking the silly runaways. I went out for wool, and did not come back shorn. A peculiar light circled around the horizon, white and thin like that often seen over the auroral corona, blending into the blue of the upper sky. The only clouds were a few faint flossy pencilings like combed silk. I pushed direct to the boundary of the usual range of the flock, and around it until I found the outgoing trail of the wanderers. It led far up the ridge into an open place surrounded by a hedge-like growth of ceanothus chaparral. Carlo knew what I was about, and eagerly followed the scent until we came up to them, huddled in a timid, silent bunch. They had evidently been here all night and all the forenoon, afraid to go out to feed. Having escaped restraint, they were, like some people we know of, afraid of their freedom, did not know what to do with it, and seemed glad to get back into the old familiar bondage.
Our course to-day was along the broad top of the main ridge to a hollow beyond Crane Flat. It is scarce at all rocky, and is covered with the noblest pines and spruces I have yet seen. Sugar pines from six to eight feet in diameter are not uncommon, with a height of two hundred feet or even more. The silver firs (Abies concolor and A. magnifica) are ex[Pg 91]ceedingly beautiful, especially the magnifica, which becomes more abundant the higher we go. It is of great size, one of the most notable in every way of the giant conifers of the Sierra. I saw specimens that measured seven feet in diameter and over two hundred feet in height, while the average size for what might be called full-grown mature trees can hardly be less than one hundred and eighty or two hundred feet high and five or six feet in diameter; and with these noble dimensions there is a symmetry and perfection of finish not to be seen in any other tree, hereabout at least. The branches are whorled in fives mostly, and stand out from the tall, straight, exquisitely tapered bole in level collars, each branch regularly pinnated like the fronds of ferns, and densely clad with leaves all around the branchlets, thus giving them a singularly rich and sumptuous appearance. The extreme top of the tree is a thick blunt shoot pointing straight to the zenith like an admonishing finger. The cones stand erect like casks on the upper branches. They are about six inches long, three in diameter, blunt, velvety, and cylindrical in form, and very rich and precious looking. The seeds are about three quarters of an inch long, dark reddish brown with brilliant iridescent purple wings, and when ripe,[Pg 92] the cone falls to pieces, and the seeds thus set free at a height of one hundred and fifty or two hundred feet have a good send off and may fly considerable distances in a good breeze; and it is when a good breeze is blowing that most of them are shaken free to fly.August 1. A grand cloudland and five-minute shower, refreshing the blessed wilderness, already so fragrant and fresh, steeping the black meadow mold and dead leaves like tea.Our glacier meadow camp north of the Soda Springs seems more beautiful every day. The grass covers all the ground though the leaves are thread-like in fineness, and in walking on the sod it seems like a plush carpet of marvelous richness and softness, and the purple panicles brushing against one’s feet are not felt. This is a typical glacier meadow, occupying the basin of a vanished lake, very definitely bounded by walls of the arrowy two-leaved pines drawn up in a handsome orderly array like soldiers on parade. There are many other meadows of the same kind hereabouts imbedded in the woods. The main big meadows along the river are the same in general and extend with but little interruption for ten or[Pg 230] twelve miles, but none I have seen are so finely finished and perfect as this one. It is richer in flowering plants than the prairies of Wisconsin and Illinois were when in all their wild glory. The showy flowers are mostly three species of gentian, a purple and yellow orthocarpus, a golden-rod or two, a small blue pentstemon almost like a gentian, potentilla, ivesia, pedicularis, white violet, kalmia, and bryanthus. There are no coarse weedy plants. Through this flowery lawn flows a stream silently gliding, swirling, slipping as if careful not to make the slightest noise. It is only about three feet wide in most places, widening here and there into pools six or eight feet in diameter with no apparent current, the banks bossily rounded by the down-curving mossy sod, grass panicles over-leaning like miniature pine trees, and rugs of bryanthus spreading here and there over sunken boulders. At the foot of the meadow the stream, rich with the juices of the plants it has refreshed, sings merrily down over shelving rock ledges on its way to the Tuolumne River. The sublime, massive Mount Dana and its companions, green, red, and white, loom impressively above the pines along the eastern horizon; a range or spur of gray rugged granite crags and mountains on the north; the curiously crested and battlemented Mount Hoffman on the west;[Pg 231] and the Cathedral Range on the south with its grand Cathedral Peak, Cathedral Spires, Unicorn Peak, and several others, gray and pointed or massively rounded.
August 22. Clouds none, cool west wind, slight hoarfrost on the meadows. Carlo is missing; have been seeking him all day. In the thick woods between camp and the river, among tall grass and fallen pines, I discovered a baby fawn. At first it seemed inclined to come to me; but when I tried to catch it, and got within a rod or two, it turned and walked softly away, choosing its steps like a cautious, stealthy, hunting cat. Then, as if suddenly called or alarmed, it began to buck and run like a grown deer, jumping high above the fallen trunks, and was soon out of sight. Possibly its mother may have called it, but I did not hear her. I don’t think fawns ever leave the home thicket or follow their mothers until they are called or frightened. I am distressed about Carlo. There are several other camps and dogs not many miles from here, and I still hope to find him. He never left me before. Panthers are very rare here, and I don’t think any of these cats would dare touch him. He knows bears too well to be caught by them, and as for Indians, they don’t want him.[Pg 233]
Now I’m back at the camp-fire, and cannot help thinking about my recognition of my friend’s presence in the valley while he was four or five miles away, and while I had no means of[Pg 191] knowing that he was not thousands of miles away. It seems supernatural, but only because it is not understood. Anyhow, it seems silly to make so much of it, while the natural and common is more truly marvelous and mysterious than the so-called supernatural. Indeed most of the miracles we hear of are infinitely less wonderful than the commonest of natural phenomena, when fairly seen. Perhaps the invisible rays that struck me while I sat at work on the Dome are something like those which attract and repel people at first sight, concerning which so much nonsense has been written. The worst apparent effect of these mysterious odd things is blindness to all that is divinely common. Hawthorne, I fancy, could weave one of his weird romances out of this little telepathic episode, the one strange marvel of my life, probably replacing my good old Professor by an attractive woman.
Our course to-day was along the broad top of the main ridge to a hollow beyond Crane Flat. It is scarce at all rocky, and is covered with the noblest pines and spruces I have yet seen. Sugar pines from six to eight feet in diameter are not uncommon, with a height of two hundred feet or even more. The silver firs (Abies concolor and A. magnifica) are ex[Pg 91]ceedingly beautiful, especially the magnifica, which becomes more abundant the higher we go. It is of great size, one of the most notable in every way of the giant conifers of the Sierra. I saw specimens that measured seven feet in diameter and over two hundred feet in height, while the average size for what might be called full-grown mature trees can hardly be less than one hundred and eighty or two hundred feet high and five or six feet in diameter; and with these noble dimensions there is a symmetry and perfection of finish not to be seen in any other tree, hereabout at least. The branches are whorled in fives mostly, and stand out from the tall, straight, exquisitely tapered bole in level collars, each branch regularly pinnated like the fronds of ferns, and densely clad with leaves all around the branchlets, thus giving them a singularly rich and sumptuous appearance. The extreme top of the tree is a thick blunt shoot pointing straight to the zenith like an admonishing finger. The cones stand erect like casks on the upper branches. They are about six inches long, three in diameter, blunt, velvety, and cylindrical in form, and very rich and precious looking. The seeds are about three quarters of an inch long, dark reddish brown with brilliant iridescent purple wings, and when ripe,[Pg 92] the cone falls to pieces, and the seeds thus set free at a height of one hundred and fifty or two hundred feet have a good send off and may fly considerable distances in a good breeze; and it is when a good breeze is blowing that most of them are shaken free to fly.
Brown had left his mountain home ere we arrived, but a considerable number of Digger Indians still linger in their cedar-bark huts on the edge of the flat. They were attracted[Pg 31] in the first place by the white hunter whom they had learned to respect, and to whom they looked for guidance and protection against their enemies the Pah Utes, who sometimes made raids across from the east side of the Range to plunder the stores of the comparatively feeble Diggers and steal their wives.
Bears seem to be common here, judging by their tracks. About noon we had another rainstorm with keen startling thunder, the metallic, ringing, clashing, clanging notes gradually fading into low bass rolling and muttering in the distance. For a few minutes the rain came in a grand torrent like a waterfall, then hail; some of the hailstones an inch in diameter, hard, icy, and irregular in form, like those oftentimes seen in Wisconsin. Carlo[Pg 124] watched them with intelligent astonishment as they came pelting and thrashing through the quivering branches of the trees. The cloud scenery sublime. Afternoon calm, sunful, and clear, with delicious freshness and fragrance from the firs and flowers and steaming ground.
July 21. Sketching on the Dome—no rain; clouds at noon about quarter filled the sky, casting shadows with fine effect on the white mountains at the heads of the streams, and a soothing cover over the gardens during the warm hours.
July 3. Warm. Breeze just enough to sift through the woods and waft fragrance from their thousand fountains. The pine and fir cones are growing well, resin and balsam dripping from every tree, and seeds are ripening fast, promising a fine harvest. The squirrels will have bread. They eat all kinds of nuts long before they are ripe, and yet never seem to suffer in stomach.
| 19,462 |
Number of Members: Over 30 regional roundtables of private, non-profit, public, and community representatives. We also have representatives in seven provinces and territories. They are all part of an online community of poverty reduction advocates, sharing strategies on what works and what doesn’t and building on each other’s successes.
How did you get the job? As a master’s student, I worked as a research assistant for School of Social Work Professor Karen Schwartz, who is a collaborator with Vibrant Communities. (Schwartz is also the Associate Dean, Research and Graduate Affairs.) After graduation, they hired me. So now I am collaborating with my former professors as a community partner.
What do you love about your work? You can actually see the difference this work makes for our community partners. So often in social work, you put your heart and soul into the work and you don’t see the rewards. With this job, I see all of the knowledge that’s being passed back and forth across the country and the follow-up actions and new policies that are the result of our conversations.
What is the most challenging aspect of it? As an online community, our staff (my colleagues) are spread out across the country working from home, so sometimes I feel like a lone wolf doing community engagement work.
What excites you right now? Right now we’re working on a big poverty reduction summit in Ottawa at the beginning of May. We’re bringing advocates and big name leaders from all across the country to align our strategies and carve a way forwards. You can see a lot of movement as people recognize that we have to be more intentional about the prevention of poverty.
How did Carleton University help you? Carleton broadened my horizons. When I first got into my bachelor degree I was solely interested in child protection work, but the structural school of social work helped me recognize a lot of the systemic issues we face in society, and got me interested in addressing the larger, structural barriers people face every day.
Friday, September 9, 2016 in Career Paths, FPA Voices, School of Social Work
March 15, 2021
“How did decolonization, revolution and racial hierarchies influence 20th century international affairs and what were the consequences?” asks Candace Sobers, a professor in Arthur Kroeger College of Public Affairs’ Bachelor of Global and International Studies... More
January 14, 2019
Miled Hill
Miled Hill
This profile was part of the Faculty of Public Affairs’ Generation FPA series, which highlighted up and coming alumni who graduated between 2008-2018. The series was published in 2018. Miled Hill is a Policy Advisor... More
March 15, 2021
Building Community in Difficult Circumstances
Building Community in Difficult Circumstances
Viviane Gray was the first university graduate from Listuguj First Nation. She received a BA in Anthropology from Carleton in 1973. She is an arts administrator, curator, artist and writer, as well as former director... More
August 11, 2016
Professor Hashmat Khan
Professor Hashmat Khan
Ups and downs in the economy can be sparked by a number of factors. Professor Hashmat Khan’s research expertise lies in identifying which ones are the most important. He learned about the link between emissions... More
| 3,449 |
And from that same issue of The New Yorker, this piece, which might well have telepathically come out of my mind.
Regular readers of this blog may have noticed that I feel rather strongly about words and language–in more than one language, as it happens. So when a political movement arises with the apparent mission to abase and disdain language itself, you might be able to guess where my sympathies lie…
Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
Click to print (Opens in new window)
Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
October 6, 2008 Andreas Kluth Politics, Republicans, Sarah Palin, The New Yorker, Verbage, words Leave a comment
| 822 |
New research out in Frontiers in Robotics and AI shows that we might not be after all. Researchers from the Experimental Virtual Environments (EVENT) Lab at the University of Barcelona examined the difference between how we believe we look, and how we view our own body from an outsider’s perspective.
What they found was that people rate their own body more negatively when embodied in it, compared to viewing their exact same body except as an outsider. So, how exactly do we view our own body as an outsider?
The researchers set out to answer this by recruiting 11 men and 12 women from the University of Barcelona. Participants filled out one questionnaire on eating disorders and one on body shape perception.
The team used virtual reality to create three virtual bodies (“avatars”) for each participant: one based on how participants indicated measurements of their own body as their own image of it, one based on their ideal body shape, and one based on their real body measurements. Once these computer models were created, participants were immersed in virtual reality to view these three avatars from two different perspectives — first-person (like how we see our own bodies day to day) or third-person (how others in public would see us). They were then asked to rate the attractiveness of each of these virtual bodies.
“Our results suggest that a change in perspective affected the evaluation of the attractiveness of a virtual body. For female participants, when the same virtual body was perceived from a third person perspective, it was evaluated as more attractive than when it was perceived from a first-person perspective,” says lead author Dr. Solène Neyret.
“Importantly, we also observed that the internal representation that people create of their own body is highly inaccurate.”
The researchers found that individuals’ prior beliefs about ‘the self’ may be responsible for this effect and could prevent people from accurately judging their real appearance. Interestingly, the researchers also noted that the “ideal body” described by participants often had similar physical attributes one to another. This points towards the predominance of an ‘ideal body shape’ within the study’s cultural environment.
By using virtual reality, the researchers were able to give participants a new perspective on themselves — in more than just a physical sense. The gap between the reality of how we look versus how we perceive how we look can often be at the root of many body perception disorders, and the techniques described here may have future applications for treatment.
“By showing their real body to our female participants from a third person perspective, it appeared more attractive to them than when the same body was seen from a first-person perspective. We believe that this method can be particularly efficient for increasing body satisfaction in patients with eating disorders”, states Neyret.
“This method could help patients to understand the biased representation they have of their own body. This knowledge could re-orientate their attention to the real features of their body shape in a more accurate and objective way, that isn’t affected by the negative prior beliefs they have about themselves”, says Neyret.
By being able to see ourselves as from an outside perspective, we might learn to get a more objective perception of our bodies, and start to live with a healthier and more accurate body image.
Scitechdaily
| 3,600 |
Minecraft is a sandbox video game created by Swedish developer Markus Persson, released by Mojang in 2011 and purchased by Microsoft in 2014. It's the one finest-promoting video sport of all time, promoting over 180 million copies across all platforms by late 2019, with over 112 million monthly energetic players. Flores says. "I remember back on my VIC-20, making stuff when I used to be 14, doing POKEs and PEEKs to make single pixels turn on," Flores says, referencing a Basic language of computer programming used with 8-bit methods just like the Commodore 64, which would appear downright archaic to young gamers immediately. We keep backups of your entire server daily which are kept for 7 days so that you can roll back to within the event something unlucky occurs! Usually talking, any client system that uses an online server might be running Apache, stated Nadir Izrael, chief technology officer and co-founding father of the IoT safety company Armis. You possibly can regulate necessary settings via the easy-to-use web interface.
As an instance how complex even simple-looking games will be, students were introduced to the unique model of Spelunky, which developer Derek Yu created in GameMaker. Whereas most of their college students are kids, the teachers at Gamebot are not opposed to educating adults. At the Gamebot Faculty, there aren't any grades. The instruments are on the market that will help you create a sport no matter your skill level. There have been just a few bugs with it, though; some purchasers have obtained last 12 months's BlizzCon pet. While the trio of new releases could not topple the UK's love of FIFA (and let's face it, few can), they did do sufficient to outplace Bungie shooter Destiny, which dropped from second to fifth in its fourth week on sale. FIFA 15 survived a three-manner attack to attain a second week because the UK No. 1, regardless of a 70 percent drop in gross sales. Rating - Monitor scores, stats and information for any sport in real-time in your iPad. And the excellent news is that these servers are secure - you don't want to fret about somebody destroying your sport. You’ll need to weigh this against your hardware needs, though.
Working the lastest sport server hardware to offer a lag-free expertise to their clients. Easily create a Bungeecord proxy server to your hub/community. Should I select a Budget or Premium Minecraft server? Minecraft rental servers from ZAP-Hosting are fully set up. Minecraft survival servers 've all seen what avid gamers are capable of creating in Minecraft. You may have seen it known as Minecraft in area, and that is a fair though simplistic statement. I can't think of many different games that allow the liberty of Wurm, which may be why I nonetheless consider it my favorite online game to this date. Whereas the children all shared excessive ranges of creativity and pleasure, it was fascinating to see how every of them went about growing their video games. I’ll must see evaluations from one among our audio specialists before I consider fully in what it’s selling, but the possibility of a headset with a greater fit is value a shot. See the full list of out there servers!
Are servers backed up? The television, radio, computer, cell, iPod and other applied sciences are the perfect medium of leisure. Innovative video games that the web gaming precinct gives are most best recourse, to healthy entertainment. Next week I will probably be leaping into Rusty Hearts, an motion-based facet-scrolling MMO from Perfect World Leisure. Background Sharing - now you can share pictures robotically on a number of providers, this may mean you can additional user the camera with out the need to wait for the download to finish. Promoting your links on forums and different sources can show to be worthwhile asset, as a result of extra the variety of clicks, the larger the revenue generated. This depends on a huge number of things, this is why we have a plan selector that you should use to find out the very best plan for you! What's the very best Minecraft hosting plan to choose? You can attempt on a cape with the assistance of Minecraft mods, although it’ll solely be visible to you - or should you personal Minecraft Bedrock version, you may get access to capes by means of pores and skin packs. Professional app on your iPhone, iPad, and iPod that will allow you to create unique excessive-high quality photos and movies. All players will find some lucky cubes that they will need to destroy as a way to acquire objects that can be exchanged for various things you are able to use for battle in a PvP arena.
Items for Sale (45)
Advertise here!
Advertise here!
Only logged in users can submit banner. Log in
© McAds - Mamun Classified Ads.
1. When you publish any listing, we recommend to login with your details. If you don't have an account on our website, please feel free to register a new account for free.
2. In the ad use a picture, title and description to better describe your product that you sell.
For buyers.
1. Avoid scams by acting locally or paying with PayPal.
2. Never pay with Western Union, Moneygram or other anonymous payment services.
3. Don\'t buy or sell outside of your country. Don\'t accept cashier cheques from outside your country.
4. This site is never involved in any transaction, and does not handle payments, shipping, guarantee transactions, provide escrow services, or offer 'buyer protection' or 'seller certification'.
| 5,746 |
Presenting PowerPoint slideshows created by someone else can be difficult. One of the most effective ways to build up your fear of public speaking as well as make PowerPoint presentations…
Some Tips to Presenting Your Business
Posted by By tim Posted inBusiness
Business Presentation is defined as a structured, informational information concerning the firm's products or services. Generally, it is generally carried out by the use of visual and audio visual presentation…
| 482 |
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue, we will assume that you agree to our privacy policy which includes details of cookie usage.
Posted by Phoeniceus on Tuesday, November 4, 2008
0 person likes this
I did not start out playing fiddle.
In elementary school, in the fourth grade, our music teacher interrupted our series of embarassing sing alongs and square dances to introduce us to the instruments of "The Band": trumpet, baritone, cornet, flute, clarinet, percussion, etc. At the time, I was too innocent to realize his concept of The Band did not contain a single stringed instrument.
I chose the flute. It was portable, inexpensive, and soulful. I spent four years learning to read those little dots on the paper and convert them into something pleasing to the ear. For four years, my parents would ask, "How was your flute lesson today?" and I would answer,
"Fine."
"Did you have a good time?"
"Yeah, fine."
That was all I would tell them. My parents learned to stop asking me about it, but they began to refer to my teacher as "Mr. Fine."
In that time and place, the flute was a girl's instrument. Things were changing in the world, and a boy could play flute, or cook, or sew, or knit, but he better be good at it if he wanted to get even a little respect, and then he still better know how to fight. I wasn't very good and I didn't fight. Not for my honor or pride or even for the first chair audition, and no one ever suggested I try. So I never did. To my ears, the flute sounded beautiful, but everytime I played it in front of other people, all the saliva in my mouth would vanish only to reappear glistening on my forehead, and I could suddenly hear every wrong note and damaged tone.
After four years, it was time to enter eighth grade, which meant, in Atlanta in those days, high school. high school started at eighth grade, so if you think you suffered during your freshmen year , you can at least thank God that you were never a SUBfreshmen. There was no way I was going to carry a flute around my middle class high school. I didn't sell it, but I stopped taking lessons and I soon stopped playing altogether. For three years, i did not play any music except on a turntable.
| 2,328 |
We made a lot of friends today…animal and human! It started with a great breakfast from “grandma” again. She is so cute and silly and teases the kids. Avi isn’t quite sure what to make of her, but laughs when she tickles.
On Monday I had arranged for a tour out to the Pak Ou caves, and sure enough the van picked us up after breakfast. The driver was crazy driving at top speed down dirt roads. After 45 minutes we stopped at an elephant camp by the river. So excited to ride elephants again! AND there was a baby!! It was so cute. Zoe loved feeding her new elephant friend some leaves and petting it. We boarded our elephant via a tall platform and it purred and kept trying to turn around. The trainers put the baby on a leash and brought it over; then our mama was happy! There were 3 other big aunts in the troop and it was obvious as we walked a trail through a village that they all took care of baby. Our elephant wasnt happy until baby was in front of her. At one point a dog started barking and the front two elephants trumpeted at it and we all circled the baby. Amazing. Out of the village they were much more relaxed. We walked through a forest, past some amazing cliffs, and along some dry rice paddys. Zoe was always on the lookout for the baby, and Avi would squeal when we went up or down a slope… It’s a little sketchy staying on.
The surrounding mountains were gorgeous even with the bit of haze. It’s an area shaped by karst topography – dramatic eroding limestone allows for huge cliffs, steep mountains, and caves! That was our next stop. We returned to the camp and fed baby a bit more before walking through the village down to the waterfront. There we got on a long skinny boat. Something the width of a kayak, but more flat bottomed and as long as 3 put end to end. I thought this was awesome – crossing a huge river (it feeds the Mekong) to a cliff cave – mostly the kids wanted snacks.
The ride was short and we got off onto a floating bamboo “pier”, crossed some boards, and jumped onto the stairway leading up to the Pak Ou caves. It was pretty crowded with people from boats that came upstream from Luang Prabang. Still neat to see all the retired buddha statues staring out. This is where temple figures come when they break or are replaced. Zoe brought some special incense from yesterday and lit it. We didn’t spend much time in this cave because of the crowds, instead we went round the side and followed the steep stairs up to the Upper cave. Now this was cool! It was an actual dark cave instead of an opening. I brought a flashlight with us, so Zoe explored around first finding tiny niches everywhere full of Buddhas. When it was Avi’s turn with the light the cave mostly became a party.
After a snack we went back down the stairs and boarded our boat back across the river. From there we walked along the edge of the water back to the elephant camp. People farm the sandy soil along the river and our guide showed us that we were walking in a peanut field! He pulled a whole plant and there grew the peanuts like tiny potatoes on the roots. They tasted like green sweet peas! Zoe ate a bunch and even brought them up to the camp for lunch. Yum!! We had some kind of meat stew (duck?), veggie schlopp, and rice. It was actually delicious and the kids devoured it.
On the way back to Luang Prabang the van stopped at “whiskey village” a tiny place that makes traditional Lao whisky. We were offered samples – the strawberry was good. I didn’t try the strong ones. It was actually really interesting because we’ve seen bottles with preserved snakes and scorpions for sale at the market and found out they are whiskey – for men only. I passed on that purchase.
Both kids fell asleep on the van ride back to the guesthouse where we had a nap and some school time.
Our final night here was a blast! We took a tuk tuk to the end of the old town peninsula where a side stream splits from the Mekong. The water was warm and in inviting, so the kids waded in a bit and played in the sand. Eventually we wandered downstream around the bend to see a huge group of local kids and young monks disrobed and playing in the water. We stayed up a bit because Avi found the perfect place to dig in the sand and Zoe liked the rocky sandbar. Then some of the local boys floated down to join us. They thought Avi was a hoot which encouraged him to get in the water and swim! They showed off jumping in the deep pool and ducking under to pop up and surprise him. He loved it and swam around in the shallow to join them. Sometimes he’d go a bit deep but they would pick him up and bring him back.
Eventually Zoe looked up from her busy sand building to see the fun and joined in. She was greeted with much excitement from these boys! I would guess them to be 9-10 year olds. She jumped right in and joined them and even floated down the current a bit. A few times she got to far out and they would nearly fight over who brought her back. One young guy in particular found her fascinating and played and played with her even after the others lost interest and came back to Avi or built a little stone dam.
Avi got cold and wanted out so they showed him how to roll in the warm sand, which he loved of course. But it got him covered in sand so he had to keep going back and forth. Soon the sun was getting low and we needed to say goodbye. Zoe rinsed off from lounging in the sand and Avi complained he was cold. I had ’emergency’ clothes for him so he got dry. Zoe didn’t care about her wet shirt; it would dry soon enough. We took a great picture with all our new friends and said goodbye. What a fun afternoon!
There is a bamboo bridge crossing the river to a little rocky outcrop that we braved in order to watch the sun set. It was pretty rickety and flexible but strong enough. Across the river we found a spot to hang out. The kids had aquired sticks and dug around in the dirt surrounding the rocks. This spot is not apparently on the typical tourist circuit as we were only joined by a German couple and four monks. There was a small snack stand, so the kids each got some banana chips and I a beer as we sat to watch the sun set. That is when the monks came over to get pictures with Avi. I offered to take some for the one guy who seemed enthralled with my baby boy and wanted to know his age and name. He handed me his phone, careful not to touch even my fingers (I’m a female and that’s not allowed). Then I got a shot with my phone.
The sun set was pretty as Zoe gave us all the play by play as it went behind the mountains. Back across the bamboo bridge we walked along the main road through the quiet old town full of temples. We even popped into the Wat where we met the puppy a few days ago. No puppy to be seen, so Zoe called “Thea Thea” and here he came running! It was super fun to see the little dog again. Jhan, the monk, wasn’t around. Zoe very lovingly gave Thea her stick as we left the playful puppy. By this time it was dark and he street lights were on. I felt we should get out of the temple grounds as more and more young monks were walking around in their under-covering all wet like they just bathed. Time for bed! They wake at 4am and then walk through town around dawn to collect food from locals. This would be something to see, but I don’t think the kids would be quiet and respectful and it’s a bit controversial having tourists getting too involved in the ceremony. It’s really how locals make merit and monks remain humble. What a lesson for a 12 year old to learn!
My two kids aren’t ready for that lesson, and wanted food. On the way to the food shops we past a little store that had a few toys and a little airplane! It was only 3000 kip (.36 cents) and Avi adores it. So much so that he ran the rest of the way into town. We plopped at an outdoor crepe cafe for some sweet dinner followed by a tuk tuk ride back to the guesthouse to say goodnight to grandma.
Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
Click to print (Opens in new window)
Related
Published by mapkat1
View all posts by mapkat1
Next Lao to Thailand
Leave a Reply Cancel reply
Archives Select Month November 2022 October 2022 September 2022 May 2022 April 2022 March 2022 February 2022 January 2022 December 2021 November 2021 September 2021 August 2021 August 2020 November 2019 October 2019 August 2019 July 2019 April 2019 January 2019 October 2018 August 2018 July 2018 June 2018 May 2018 April 2018 March 2018 January 2018 December 2017 October 2017 September 2017 August 2017 July 2017 June 2017 April 2017 March 2017 February 2017 January 2017 December 2016 November 2016 October 2016 September 2016 August 2016 July 2016 June 2016 May 2016 April 2016 March 2016 February 2016 December 2015 November 2015 October 2015 September 2015 August 2015 July 2015 June 2015 May 2015 April 2015 March 2015 February 2015 January 2015 December 2014 November 2014 October 2014 September 2014 August 2014 July 2014 June 2014 May 2014 April 2014 March 2014 February 2014 January 2014 December 2013 November 2013 October 2013 September 2013 August 2013 July 2013 June 2013 May 2013 April 2013 March 2013 February 2013 January 2013 December 2012 November 2012 October 2012 September 2012 August 2012 July 2012 June 2012 May 2012 April 2012 March 2012 February 2012 January 2012 December 2011 November 2011 October 2011 September 2011 August 2011 July 2011 June 2011 May 2011 April 2011 March 2011 February 2011 January 2011 December 2010 November 2010 October 2010 September 2010 August 2010 July 2010 June 2010 May 2010 April 2010 March 2010 February 2010 January 2010 December 2009 November 2009 October 2009 September 2009 August 2009 July 2009 June 2009 May 2009 April 2009 March 2009 February 2009 January 2009 December 2008 November 2008 October 2008 September 2008 August 2008 July 2008 June 2008 May 2008 April 2008 March 2008 February 2008 January 2008 December 2007 November 2007 October 2007 September 2007 August 2007 July 2007 June 2007 May 2007 April 2007 March 2007 February 2007 January 2007 December 2006 November 2006 October 2006
| 10,227 |
Learn to keep your Jira instance healthy and organized for the long haul, then earn a Pro Skills Badge
how to set yourself up for success with a new Jira instance
how to clean, de-clutter, and organize an existing Jira instance
how to evaluate the impact and tradeoffs of your design and configuration decisions
This free Atlassian Skillbuilder course explores approaches to balancing customization and standardization in Jira.
You’ll learn how to set yourself up for success with a new Jira instance, how to clean, de-clutter, and organize an existing Jira instance, and how to evaluate the impact and tradeoffs of your design and configuration decisions. In the course, you will explore three use cases that will help you understand what to do—and what not to do—when setting up a new instance or working with an existing one. You’ll also learn about key marketplace apps and community resources for doing advanced clean-up tasks. After this course, you’ll be ready to make informed decisions about how to set up and maintain your Jira instance.
This course is applicable for both project administrators and Jira administrators for Jira Software, Jira Service management, and Jira Work Management. It also applies to all deployments: cloud, data center, and server.
Enroll now in this free Skillbuilder course. It's the first step toward earning a Pro Skills Badge.
Enroll for free
After completing this course, you are eligible to earn an Atlassian Pro Skills Badge (ASB-116).
To earn the badge, you must complete the free Skillbuilder course and pass a short online quiz (schedule it below).
Plan your choices carefully with these considerations:
After you complete the Skillbuilder course, you can take the quiz to earn the badge immediately or you can wait until you need to extend a certification.
Earning this badge will extend any related Certification by two additional years (24 months), provided that you earn it before your certification’s suspension date.
→ Learn more about extending credentials.
Products covered: Jira Service Management Cloud.
Location: online, not proctored.
Schedule and pay for your quiz in the certification portal using a credit card or a voucher.
This is a non-proctored quiz that can be launched at any time. Once the quiz begins, you must complete it within one hour.
If you passed, your new Atlassian Pro Skills badge will appear in the certification portal within 1-2 business days. If you did not pass, you can register again. The retake fee is the same as the initial fee.
Schedule your quiz
Your Pro Skills Badge is valid for two years (24 months). To keep all your Pro Skills Badges active, simply add a new one every 24 months.
| 2,676 |
Donald, How’s it going getting everything wrapped up? I’m guessing you haven’t been hindered by a bunch of sappy, heartfelt goodbyes with your staff or with members of the standing White House staff – and not because you don’t go in for such things. This will probably get me a hefty bit of karmic debt, … Continue reading A record setting stretch
There are no guarantees
January 10, 2021 / Tracy Simpson / Leave a comment
Donald, Ten more days. Much as I’d like to be wrong, I’m not optimistic that Pelosi and Schumer are going to be able to get you out of office early. I am, however, glad they’re working on it in earnest and that a historic second set of Articles of Impeachment will be launched tomorrow. Nothing … Continue reading There are no guarantees
One very messed up three-ring circus
December 30, 2020 / Tracy Simpson / Leave a comment
To: The Evil Ring Master Blessed be, we’re finally within spitting distance of 2021 and will soon be officially putting 2020 in the rearview mirror along with the previous three years of your reign of terror. I can’t hold my breath until tomorrow midnight and live to tell the tale (let alone until noon EST … Continue reading One very messed up three-ring circus
December 29, 2020 / Tracy Simpson / Leave a comment
To: The Nemesis On the way to Discovery Park this morning with the dogs we passed through the Ballard neighborhood, a part of town west and south of us that was first inhabited by the Shilshole people who were displaced by Nordic people in the mid-1800’s. As we passed the main drag, I reminisced out … Continue reading Mindfields
December 24, 2020 / Tracy Simpson / Leave a comment
To: The Scrooge on Steroids You know, this holiday season is about as grim as it’s ever been in my lifetime as we shuffle inexorably to over 350,000 Covid deaths by year’s end. Have you seen the CDC’s projections for mid-January – once the fall out from all the Christmas travel starts hitting? They’re telling … Continue reading A Christmas Eve missive
Our POTUS’s allegiances are not with US
December 19, 2020 / Tracy Simpson / Leave a comment
To: Vladimir’s Tool So it was almost refreshing to see that four-star Army General, Gustave Perna, accepted responsibility for the screwed up communication that led to the disconnect between states and Pfizer’s vaccine distribution. Almost. He did say the following (from the WP article led by Isaac Stanley-Becker): “I want to assure everybody, and I … Continue reading Our POTUS’s allegiances are not with US
December 18, 2020 / Tracy Simpson / Leave a comment
To: My Least Favorite Person On my blog, I gave yesterday’s letter the title: “A picture may be worth a thousand words, but it still won’t lead to just indictments of killer cops.” It’s longer and way clunkier than my usual letter titles, but it said what I wanted to convey so I went with … Continue reading Role models and a saboteur
To boldly go where we must go
December 13, 2020 / Tracy Simpson / Leave a comment
To: The Hate Machine Yesterday afternoon we participated in Stacey Abrams’s Star Trek: The Next Election (Zoom) party to benefit the Ossoff and Warnock campaigns. Well, actually we just tuned in and watched/listened as Abrams talked with members of the various Star Trek casts about politics and the messages and ethos of the shows. For … Continue reading To boldly go where we must go
December 9, 2020 / Tracy Simpson / Leave a comment
To: Our Foremost Death-Dealing Nihilistic Monster I just met Priya, the Indian Brown girl superhero whose companion is a flying tiger named Sahas, which means courage in Hindi. Apparently I needed a good mid-week verklempt because it hit within the a minute of starting to read this WP article about the latest edition of the … Continue reading Calling all righteous, courageous mere mortals
Monthly Archives Select Month January 2021 (20) December 2020 (31) November 2020 (30) October 2020 (31) September 2020 (30) August 2020 (31) July 2020 (31) June 2020 (30) May 2020 (31) April 2020 (30) March 2020 (31) February 2020 (29) January 2020 (31) December 2019 (31) November 2019 (30) October 2019 (31) September 2019 (30) August 2019 (31) July 2019 (31) June 2019 (30) May 2019 (31) April 2019 (30) March 2019 (31) February 2019 (28) January 2019 (31) December 2018 (31) November 2018 (30) October 2018 (31) September 2018 (30) August 2018 (31) July 2018 (31) June 2018 (30) May 2018 (31) April 2018 (30) March 2018 (31) February 2018 (28) January 2018 (32) December 2017 (31) November 2017 (30) October 2017 (32) September 2017 (30) August 2017 (31) July 2017 (31) June 2017 (30) May 2017 (31) April 2017 (31) March 2017 (32) February 2017 (10)
| 4,796 |
ABOUT US
(Add or view comments at the bottom of the page.)
One of my favorite types of work is working with clients who are building businesses. I have always loved the creation of businesses. For me it is like a giant real world word problem (which I think is a good thing).
Recently one of my clients, “Jane” bumped into an interesting problem. She was in the process of building a web site and wasn’t sure what she wanted it to look like. She was building her web site with wordpress that allows users to quickly and easily change the look and feel of the web site. With the click of a single button the entire design of the site can be changed by changing from one theme to another.
If you do a search on-line there are thousands of free wordpress themes. In just a few seconds (literally) you can update your site with one of these themes. Jane had become overwhelmed with the choices. She wanted the web site to be just perfect.
I find the concept of “just perfect” is very interesting. What does just perfect mean. Often times we believe that just perfect means that is has to be top of the line. It means that it needs to be in the top one percent. It needs to be better than everyone else. But is that really the case?
I don’t think it is. Often time’s just perfect means that it is doing its job. In the case of building a new web site for someone who is going to be providing information to a possible client base “just perfect” means the site is easy to navigate, easy to understand, and isn’t distracting in the way it looks. It is perfectly acceptable to have a logo that only cost $40 verses $4000. It is perfectly acceptable have everything in easy to read pain text and not some super-fancy flash animation.
In this case the web site is a delivery system of really good content. Jane’s readers are going to coming to the site because of what they are going to learn, not because it is designed beautifully.
This is not to say that beautiful design is bad or that no thought needs to be given to the look and feel of the web site. What is important is to understand what good enough is. Especially when we are starting, good enough is what we are shooting for.
(For example my favorite web design of all time is the Google home page. Easy to use. Look clean. Everything that is needed and nothing more. Sometimes the logo is different based on the day, making you smile. It is “just prefect”.)
It is amazing that many of us feel like we have failed when something is good enough. We are even temped to say it is “just” good enough. We have been taught to strive for better. We have been encouraged to dream. We long for a richer life.
But this doesn’t mean that everything has to be the best. Many times good enough is good enough.
It reminds me of something that happened to my father. He needed to pass a test for his work to add a new certification allowing him to sell a new product. It was a product that he had a deep understanding of, but he need to demonstrate his knowledge on a very specific test. Over the course of a few weeks he studied a great deal. To pass the test he needed a 70. When get got home from the test I asked him how he did. He said, “I received a 74…I studied too hard.”
When struggling with the need to be prefect when good enough is just that we can tap on something like this:
It is important that I continue to strive in my life…there are parts of my life that I would like to be richer…there are relationships that I would like that are fuller…there are gifts and talents of mine that I want to share with the world…but this doesn’t mean that everything has to be the best…it is important that I keep all of my goals in perspective…just because something some thing can be done better doesn’t mean that is has to be done better…my laundry needs to be folded good enough…my bed needs to be made good enough…my car needs to be parallel parked good enough…it is possible for me to do all these things better…but nothing would be achieved by the extra effort…there are so many things I would like to grow into…that I need to only spend as much time as needed on each task…I don’t want to do less that is necessary…but it is important that I keep everything in perspective…what is essential is the final goal…not each of the pieces…I give myself permission to be comfortable with good enough…and know that good enough isn’t settling…but instead by doing good enough I am giving myself time and recourses to do other parts of what I am trying to achieve…I am going to keep the big picture in mind to understand what is good enough in each situation…good enough is not failing…it is good enough…and that is just prefect.
Author's Bio:
Gene Monterastelli is a Baltimore, MD based practitioner. He is the editor of tappingQandA.com which has over 200 free articles, audios, and tap alongs. In additions to working with clients one-on-one in person and over the phone he enjoys teaching advanced tapping techniques. There is a very special place in Gene's practice for families with autism.
Posted May 05, 2010 03:13 AM
Excellence and perfectionism are two mutually exclusive matters. Excellence is a pursuit. It is an attitude of doing one's best. Perfection is frustrating. It is never attainable. There is no agreed upon universal standard for what 'perfect' is or means. Thus, no one can attain something that is not defined and universally accepted. I think writers should use spell check. I think that they should edit their articles, books, etc. 'Good enough' is no excuse for being lazy. It too purports to be some kind of standard that hasn't been universally accepted. Again, 'excellence' is simply doing one's best.
Posted June 01, 2010 10:24 AM
Gene, from a recovering perfectionist who still finds herself stuck in the "this has to be perfect" loop, I thank you for this.
Especially loved your story of your father saying he studied too hard when he got a 74.
It's so helpful to know when things are Good Enough!
Email*: (will not be published)
Comment*: (Please no HTML nor overt self-promotion in your comment.)
Math Required*: 3 + 3 = (proves that you are a human)
Disclaimer: All information on this website is for educational purposes only, and the content is not intended to suggest that it is a substitute for proper medical care or good common sense.
While EFT has produced remarkable clinical results, it must still be considered to be in the experimental stage and thus practitioners and the public must take complete responsibility for their use of it.
In addition, the articles on this site represent the views of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the founder of EFT, Gary Craig, nor the owner of this web site, Stefan Gonick.
EFT never ceases to amaze me! The process is gentle and often provides benefits where other methods fail.
Your emotional health, your success in the world, and your level of joy can all be dramatically enhanced by shifting the energies that regulate them. That is the promise of the fascinating new field of Energy Psychology.
| 7,480 |
Let's Talk About Tools I | The Truth About Amway
Amway Talk
Amway Myths, Commentary
February 12, 2009 ibofightback 60 Comments
Probably the last major “unresolved” issue in the public arena with regards Amway is the “tools” or Business Support Materials (BSM), and in particular controversy over profits earned from BSM by “higher pins”. If you spend even a small amount of time on the internet researching Amway you’ll find many claims that “the real money” in the Amway business isn’t in promoting Amway products, but in promoting BSM, and some claim that Diamonds and above typically earn in excess of 90% of their income from their BSM side businesses. In the last few days, following the release of Amway’s 2008 sales data I’ve even seen quite a few comments on newspaper websites and other sites claiming the majority of Amway’s $8.2billion in sales was not from sale of Amway products, but from the sale of “motivational materials”.
So let’s clear that one up first. Except for a few minor exceptions, Amway’s sales data includes virtually no sale of motivational materials. The controversy over profiting from the sale of motivational materials is primarily one surrounding third parties, typically Amway business owners rather than Amway itself. And that’s where things start to become not so simple. In this first post I’d like to try and clarify what is meant by “tool profit”. Tools are things promoted as useful for building or supporting an Amway business. Amway Europe’s BSM policy from 2007 says the following –
The definition of Business Support Materials (‘BSMs’) is intended to be interpreted broadly and includes, by way of example: printed materials, audio-video and multimedia productions, internet-based products and services, extra Amway recognition and award systems, meetings and other events, and other materials or equipment used to support information or sale of Amway product or services, as well as coupons, vouchers, tickets or standing order/subscription programs relating to any of the foregoing.
This is indeed “broad”. A pen I use to show the plan or write out a receipt is “other materials or equipment used to support information or sale of Amway product or services”. I use the computer I’m typing on to support my business – it’s BSM. I use an Internet Service Provider to provide me with Internet Access, and I use that access to support my Amway business. My ISP is thus “selling”, and I assume profiting, from selling me Business Support Materials.
It’s not this BSM that has been the source of controversy however. It’s BSM that has been produced by Amway IBOs, or companies owned and/or operated by Amway IBOs, and promoted and sold through the Amway network – from IBO to IBO. This is typically tapes and CDs, books, seminar tickets, and internet and telephony (voicemail) services.
The major controversy is the claim that “high-level” IBOs (normally Diamonds and above, though some claim Platinums and/or Emeralds and above) typically make far more from the “side business” of promoting BSM to their Amway organisations than they do from promoting Amway products. Whether there’s any truth to this or not I’ll discuss in a future post, for the moment I just want to define what we are talking about.
It seems to me that when discussing “tool profit”, there are actually three different types of income under discussion and that they really need to be considered separately, particularly when looking at the ethics of the situation. The areas are –
Income earned through the production of BSM and reselling at a markup to Amway business owners
Income earned by an IBO by reselling BSM at a markup through their Amway networks
Income earned through speaking fees
It’s my opinion that many of the myths around BSM income have occurred through a failure of folk to consider these three different aspects to it. For example, from my research it would appear that income #1 is where the largest BSM related incomes may be generated, but that income tends to be limited to a small number of people – yet it is often assumed that all (or most) Diamonds and above are earning it.
I’ll talk more about these three areas in part II.
Update: Part II – Do Diamonds make most of their money from selling tools?
Chuck Holmes says:
June 17, 2015 at 02:37
Just curious, but do you ever think Amway will “ban” the third party tools from the kingpin distributors and just sell them directly to the distributors themselves? And if so, do you think that would fix most of the problems and complaints that people have about the tools business?
I look forward to your response.
June 17, 2015 at 12:47
The “complaints” about the tool business tend to be extremely old and overblown. The Pokorny class action settlement data proved beyond doubt that (a) very few distributors actually spend much money on them and (b) even fewer thought there was any concern over them.
So (a) why would you ban them and (b) how would you ban them? Tell IBO’s it’s against the rules to go to onlinemlmcommunity.com and buy any of your services? Or only if you’re an Amway IBO? So what if you’re running it as a corporation, which isn’t an IBO? Ban that too? So IBOs can’t buy books from Amazon if there are IBO shareholders that might profit? etc etc
The whole idea of “banning” people from selling something that the market finds of value – because a minority don’t like it or abuse it – is entirely antithetical to the concept of free enterprise.
Pingback: Part II – Do Diamonds make most of their money from selling tools? | The Truth About Amway
May 17, 2010 at 17:05
I can’t find part II, have you posted it yet? This blog is really hitting close to home for me right now.
withheld says:
November 24, 2009 at 15:01
I look forward to your next post about BSM which I hope also reveals your views about the concerns mentioned in these comments.
withheld says:
November 24, 2009 at 15:00
exAmway’s were really on the dot and totally reflective of my concerns. I do not know what Amway’s policy is outside my country but what I do know is that the problems with tools do exist here as well.
“In addition to my post above, if you guys are feeling obligated or coerced into business, then leave Amway.” ~DC
Many of us probably likes the idea of direct selling and enjoy the benefit provided as an Amway member and the problem doesn’t lie with the business. I believe most people are more than happy to be able to do such businesses. The true problem, at least for me that is, is that because of their system, we have to tolerate and at times give in to the pressure from our upline to buy the tools. I do not know why but at many of the talks, at least one of the diamonds will mention “Do what your upline tells you to, they know the best” or something along the lines. We aren’t comfortable with buying the tools, but most uplines and above aren’t going to let us feel happy about our business until we do as told.
“But what you say at the beginning is really the issue, it’s overpromotion of the tools without accounting properly for an individuals circumstances. I actually think part of the “blame” here rests with the individual IBOs though, because in my experience they’re often unlikely to tell their upline about financial challenges they’re having.” ~ibofb
“I was suggesting that Amway corp. itself could identify what techniques are currently working for people, and produce training dvds, or cd with those techniques… and either supply it to the IBOs as a tax deductible expense… or in a worst case scenario charge the IBO’s the cost price.”~exAmway
These points are actually linked to Amway’s system itself. I am inclined to believe it may be some system they came up together with Jager or BWW but since I have nothing to substantiate the point, I’ll leave it at that. What I am concerned with is that they have a “trust your upline and do as he says” thing going on and even though the uplines are using the same materials, I don’t get how the same information can be transmitted to us or how we can be sure our upline will make the correct decision. IMO, I don’t feel like an independent business owner, it feels more like I am emulating other people on my path to success instead of trying to better them when I need to follow these step by step. The control is stifling and creates no room for individual flare or innovation to emerge. From the way I see it, it is effective for many of the people involved in Amway because they lack education or knowledge in such areas. The system provides a rigid yet comprehensive structure for them to progress but for others such as myself who are studying to be entrepreneurs, we (or I) feel suffocated. It is creating an environment where we have to strictly follow the system just because “Jager/BWW is a company over a few decades old with a lot of experience and have learnt a lot of lessons from their own mistakes over the years, so if they say it work, it should work as they are seasoned professionals”, as quoted by an upline in my group. If you do have a personal experience where innovation triumphs, please enlighten me.
That’s my main concern as an IBO, the system where it is implied that we have to follow our upline, with the phrase “it’s always optional” as the cover up. They are using emotional blackmail, you know it, but they’ve covered their asses.
DC says:
November 17, 2009 at 12:36
In addition to my post above, if you guys are feeling obligated or coerced into business, then leave Amway. You can’t stop a winner from winning and you can’t keep a quitter from quitting. People will do exactly what they want to do. If you don’t want to buy educational materials from a business, you are going to buy educational materials from a school for years that you will never use and will teach you how to work for someone else. The question is will a job allow you the opportunity to obtain everything you want and saw you could have in business which was the reason for getting in business in the first place. There is only room for one dream in a corporation and that is the owner’s. If you don’t make your own decisions, someone else will by default. Instead of being negative about it, take it for what it is. It’s an opportunity to create your own income buying things you are going to buy anyway. Consumers spend money, producers make money, and prosumers make money everytime they spend money. It’s a brilliant concept. The point is, whether it is the Amway business or another, you will still need to possess the discipline, commitment, positive mental attitude, and proper thought process required to be successful. If you don’t learn to discipline yourself, you will inevitably work for the rest of your life for someone else who will tell you when you can eat, use the restroom, take vacations, and how many times you can get sick. If you aren’t signing your own paychecks, you’re not in control. This is referred to as being “normal”. Normal is nothing more than a life of average, mediocrity, and insignificance. LTD all day.
DC says:
November 17, 2009 at 12:08
Don’t confuse the simplicity of building this business with the complexity of building yourself. That should take care of the “tool” situation. Here’s a tip, if you are being forced to listen to CDs or to attend functions or weekly workshops then you are not an IBO (Independent Business Owner) in any sense of the word. Personally I believe that is the reason why upline promote tool flow and attendance. It is so that people recognize the value of it and so that they eventually think for themselves. It’s better for an upline to promote tool flow than volume as volume is not the only indicator of the growth of your business. Sometimes the best growth in your business is the growth that only you can see. In addition, if an “IBO” feels obligated to buy educational material that is going to help build their business, then that IBO has not yet seen the value of it, hence why the upline is promoting it. If you use the system, the system will build your business. The primary reason why tools are promoted is because the business is based on duplication. Duplication and repitition are the mother of all skills. If you don’t get educated, neither will your downline. You will have a revolving door business and will be more like a non-profit organization because exertation without explanation leads to frustration. That’s the reason why your upline promotes tools.
October 6, 2009 at 01:03
I was in Amway in Canada for the better part of 5 years and have nothing bad to say about Amway/Quixtar itself, in fact, I still use the products. But I’d like some clarification on certain statements that have been put forth on this blog and give my own personal experiences concerning these topics.
Point: “We’re forced to listen to tapes/CD’s/function speakers.”
Counterpoint: “No one is forcing you to do anything.”
My personal experience: being told “The system is optional but no one has ever succeeded in the Amway business without it.”
No, I wasn’t “forced” to take part in the system, I was coerced and blackmailed into taking part in the system. Buying into a business, then being told I’ll never make it work unless I also buy into the training system is, in fact, coersion. There are many people in the Amaway business selling products and making a profit without ever having spent a single cent on books, tapes or function tickets. I was told a bold-faced lie to get me to sign up for the “Tape(s) of the Month”. The internet is not to blame for the damage that Amway has sustained over the last decade…it’s cause by greedy IBO’s selling over-priced tools and draining the bank accounts of unsuspecting newcomers to the business.
Point: “Yagers makes nothing from Amway out of most people who buy Internet Services products.”
I joined Amway in the early days of the internet, before everything became password protected. I checked out Internet Services Corp website and was surprised to find no mention of Amway. I could, however, get a cassette tape duplicated for a mere 75 cents US if I ordered in bulk…say, for my downline. Which I could then sell for $8.00 each.
So, the new business model: First, I rent a big auditorium say that will hold 10,000 people. I charge $20 US per person which gives me a gross at the door of $200,000 dollars. Subtract $50,000 for rental fees and $50,000 for speaker’s fees to the guest speakers and you put a cool 100 grand in your pocket…for one nights work. Oh, but there’s more… You rent some recording equipment and record the function. Then you get Internet Services Corp to make you 10,000 copies which you can then sell to the same people that bought the function tickets. At an average net profit of $7.00 US per tape, there’s another $70,000 generated from that same function. Pretty sweet, but it doesn’t stop there. You pack everything into a tractor-trailer and drive to the next city and have another function the next week, and so on… Assuming you take a 3 month vaction and a full month at Xmas Holiday time to be with family, this business can NET you over 2 million dollars a year. How do you get people do do this? You keep lieing to them: “Look how rich you can get from Amway! See how rich Amway has made me! I have 2 Caddy’s, a Ferrari and 3 houses…all thanks to Amway!”
Don’t believe it. As my former upline Mr. Casey Combden used to say:
“The System is the Secret.”
Jerry says:
September 6, 2009 at 18:34
I just came from a conference with the Britt system. The stuff I heard was worth far more than the S$65 i paid for it.
In the next hall at the same facility people paid S$2000 to listen to Anthony Robins. I am sure he is good but as you all know motivation needs to be continuous. What impresses me with Britt system is the fact that motivation is continuous. It is helping me set priorities with my job and life like never before.
There is no free lunch. If you haven’t figured that out there is not much anybody else can do.
almostibo says:
July 20, 2009 at 17:16
I have been reading all you guys comments and posts on this site. And I’ve read multiple sites about Amway.
passed: i’m sured that exAmway was just trying to share his experience with other people so that people can see both sides to this story, not because he has “no life”
I don’t know what conclusion I have come to about Amway, but what I do know is that it does for SURE sound crazy and cult-like, getting people to join, forcing people to by these ridiculous cds with MULTIPLE people saying the SAME thing
over
and
over
and
over
and over
i.e. : “my experience…. ” “if you don’t believe it then fine, I got financial freedom and I have all the time in the world now”
seriously, why do we have to listen to sixty cds like that?
and go to 60 seminars EVERY thursday to hear some speaker because he/she is SO wealthy now and about their experience about how they went from being so broke to one of the wealthiest people….
the only reason i was considering doing it was to sell some products maybe, or just you know as a side thing during school
but all the pressure and all the forcing and all the crazy websites on this business
not only do they make me skeptical, quite frankly it’s just ridiculous
has anyone seen what they do/experienced it/seen all the websites and such that people have wrote about it
July 21, 2009 at 09:46
almostibo, I don’t know what “conclusion” you’ve come to about Amway either, but it’s clear you’ve decided to do so based on falsehoods. For example you claim people are “forced” to listen to CDs, which is ridiculous. Like everything else, it’s a choice, and most IBOs chose not to listen to CDs – so much for being “forced”! You also claim the say the same thing over and over! How many have you listened to? I don’t know which CDs you’ve listened to, I’ve never listened to any two CDs that have said the same thing. Each have different perspectives and different information. And what’s 60 seminars every thursday? I’m guessing you’re talking about an open plan … which isn’t for you to sit in alone … it’s for you to take people to so you can leverage other people’s knowledge, experience, and success to help build your business. Yes … you should even be able to learn some stuff yourself! But hey, if every thursday is some kind of problem for you … why not try college instead? Then you have to go nearly every day!! Or a job? Yup, 5 or 6 days a week.
If all you want to do is a “side thing”, then do that. Sell a few products. Thursday’s aren’t for you. The majority of CDs aren’t for you. That’s fine. Nobody forces you to do anything, it’s your choice.
It’s just unfortunate you seem to have decided to unquestionably believe “all the crazy websites” rather than actually checking it out yourself. If you’re idea of a good life is to have other people do your thinking for you … well, Amway is not for you, so you’ll make the right choice by not being involved.
z says:
April 13, 2009 at 23:26
Very interesting that such time and effort is spent on trying to figure out something so simple. I’ve had experience with Dornan’s group and have never been forced into buying tools, nor have I been encouraged to overexagerate the significance of tools. Tools are to learn and to grow. Just like buying my own books in college. Or for that matter, paying thousands just to go to classes in college. I am young, but also very skeptical. This should not be something that is mused over. Any large scale business ex. McDonald’s and Wal-Mart, have been in business and had enough business associates/contacts to figure out what works and what doesn’t work. Check them all out. All will have critics. All will have believers. All have people at the top (CEO’s, presidents, managers) making more money than basic employees or consumers. All have the very top people having considerable more expenses than those at the bottom. The “tool systems” of any organization whether Amway or someone else (McDonald’s, Wal-Mart) are created to benefit the whole organization. That’s how they get so big. They figure out a system that works, stick to it, adjust slightly if neccessary, teach it to others, and keep expanding, and expanding. Tap into the system and you too can benefit if you do the same sweat work they have done. There is no robbery in that. No scams. No nothing. Just plain guts and genius. I commend all the successful business men and women in each and every country. Amway has given many ordinary people a great way to move out of current financial situations into better ones. Hoorah to those who are able to do more with their Amway business than many can imagine. They are the ones who have changed the most. Check out all the great businesses and their founders heart. You’ll find they do much more than hang out eating burgers, buying more stuff for wal-mart, or buying more Amway products. They are out fulfilling passions. Helping the poor, helping the disabled, helping people who don’t have a hope. Showing mercy. Making a difference. Tools don’t make the money. They pay for the cost of running a tool business. Building an organization makes the money. The freedom for IBO’s is from the Amway checks. Check out the bonus’ you can earn. Some of them are crazy money. Tools don’t supply that. Don’t get lost in the fact that people still make money other places. Many people diversify. It’s kinda a smart thing to do.
passed says:
March 9, 2009 at 18:30
exAmway:
Business is not so complicated that you need to Join and quit multiple times to understand it. You should not need multiple times to figure out if this is for you or not, if you would have given enough time to understand it first time itself. Yes, circumstances changes and you may have to leave, but if you rejoin their should be a reason for joining back. You can not leave same business multiple time for same reason. Also no one is here to convince you about the business, we all believe in it and working to make it work for us. If you are not going looking to join back, then why are you still snooping around and putting inputs in Amway Forums? I guess you should find better things in life to concentrate on..or you still have some hopes for you in business?
IBOFB: You are absolutely right about point 7 in previous comment.
I have personal experience about people getting excited after seeing the opportunity. They get started, promise to do everything and then almost disappear. They never place any order, never tried any product, never came for any association, absolutely did nothing. And if you somehow get chance to talk to them they will say and it is not for them. This is so absurd, I mean you started this believing it is for you, you knew what you are suppose to do (I am upfront about this in plan all the time) and now all of sudden you are saying that it is not for you without doing anything?
Just like any other business, this business also has many options, people come in to make money and you can make it many different ways. You need to find out which way suits you. Just like in college, you have good professors & Bad professors, You have bright students & have stupids too..but do you just look at the Bad professors and stupid students to decide whether you want to finish college or not, is total abusrd thing to do.
I belong to BWW in US and I liked what Bill Britt once said in one of the Major functions. I dont remember the exact words, but the meaning of the talk was “If the person is not ready to listen to you, don’t waste your time with them”. ofcource we are not looking for followers, but we are looking for people who are open minded to find out what they can do in this business, then they can figure out where they want to concentrate on. Find your strengths and start working on it.
exAmway says:
March 5, 2009 at 13:40
1. Are you suggesting that no other problems have ever existed in any other Amway organization?
2. I could be wrong, but isn’t the Yager organization one of the biggest in Amway?
3. Should we delete all websites over a certain age because they are out of date?
4. I told you the direct I spoke of closely associated with many of the diamonds etc. He could easily get the information direct from the source, he had no need to go anywhere else for his information.
5. Buy giving platinums a cut of the pie, there is an incentive for the platinums to promote the tools system and and increase tool sales. Therefore the size of the pie should also proportionately increase. Would the big guys give the platinums a cut if it was not in their own best financial interest to do so? I suspect they don’t do it to feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
6. I have been in Amway three times over 20 years… and I have not seen any significant changes in the way they do business in regard to tools.
7. If you are satisfied that the vast majority of people you introduce to Amway are better off financially after their association with Amway than before they joined… that is terrific… and I wish you every success. Amway is not of me though… I could no longer honestly recommend it.
I seriously doubt that I will change your mind regarding Amway. I also seriously doubt that you will change my mind regarding Amway. We could go on debating forever, but it would not accomplish any useful purpose.
Regardless of how good or bad my arguments were… I also know that it is your website… so you will get the final say.
So… I would like to thank you for allowing me to give voice my opinions… especially because they differ greatly from your own. I have enjoyed our debate. Thank you.
March 5, 2009 at 14:07
1. Never suggested any such thing, indeed to the contrary if you follow my site
2. Yes, it’s one of the largest in the US, but still represents only a minority of Amway, even in the US, and given the lack of similar issues raised with the rest – the majority – of Amway, it would suggest those types of problems are primarily within that group and it’s offshoots.
3. Huh? No, but you clearly shouldn’t cite them as evidence to make claims about what is happening now.
4. But in short – you don’t know. It’s clearly to me having read pretty much every bit of information in this area, including all the lawsuits, that it’s primarily rumour feeding on rumour
5. It’s also in their best interest to promote tools that increase their Amway sales volume
6. What groups were you in, and can you please provide some details on how they handle tool profits.
7. That’s a straw man/red herring. Many people join or remain with Amway primarily for the products. I don’t buy Nutrilite to be “better off financially” – though I could argue that joining Amway did indeed make me better off financially – as a customer I’d have to pay a lot more! Stats out of the US indicate that 50% of folk who join there never even order a product, let alone anything else. One could argue they’re finacially worse off, having paid a few bucks for a membership they didn’t use, on the other hand, they got exactly what they were promised – an opportunity. If I buy a ticket to go to Disneyland and then decide not to use it, it’s a bit much to blame Disneyland for it.
ajgannon says:
March 3, 2009 at 23:23
IBO, what does this mean? “Wow!what an irony who’s the site owner here. He is writing against Amway and the Amway people are discussing it more here.”
How did you come to the conclusion “he is writing against Amway”? Did you mistakenly think you were on an anti-Amway site? You recognized that this site has a higher proportion of IBOs and ABOs contributing than your average independent Amway site. Wouldn’t that be a clue that this could be a pro-Amway site? The other clue would be the content of the blog-posts written by IBOFighBack.
March 3, 2009 at 06:46
Wow!what an irony who’s the site owner here. He is writing against Amway and the Amway people are discussing it more here. Great. Amway rocks. It will keep rocking no matter what.
In the concept of Franchising, when you buy a Franchise, you get to know the standards being followed by the Franchiser and you get the right to follow those standards and earn from it.
Now, Amway is a concept called as Private Franchising. Here we buy the Franchise and can further sell it and become Franchiser also. So being a Franchisee why not to follow all the standards. The difference is that the standards are classified and are optional. You can buy anyone you want to implement or all of them. It depends on you. Now see if you don’t follow the standards being set by your uplines, its something like you buy a Mc Donalds Franchisee and you say that I will not use the name Mc Donalds but something else and will sell your own type of burger and not the one which every Mc Donalds sell.
exAmway says:
March 3, 2009 at 04:07
I told you that if it turned out that I was not “banned for life” that I would let you know and apologize. While not quite at that point, there has been a development in that area, and in the interest of fairness and honesty… I thought I would tell you about it.
When the original issue regarding my website surfaced I was told that my “platinums could lose their business” as a result of my actions, and that “the last time something like this occurred it took down a diamond”.
I thought it strange that someone could be punished for something they had no knowledge of, but I did not want anyone else to be punished for anything I had done so I panicked and resigned in an attempt to limit the damage to myself only.
The next day I was informed by my upline that because of my resignation the matter was not going to be taken any further, but that I had been “banned for life”, and a number of conditions were imposed upon me.
In my resignation I explained my point of view.
I have now received a letter from Amway stating that they are sorry to see me go, and there is no mention of a life ban, or any of the other conditions that were supposedly imposed upon me.
The letter seems to be a form letter though, and it may have been sent by mistake. So, I have asked for clarification of the issue. Something is not right here somewhere. I will keep you updated.
In regard to “If the majority of the higher ups money is actually made through tool sales as claimed by many, and also suggested by my own inquiries…”:
There are plenty of sites out there dealing with this issue, but if you are interested http://www.cs.cmu.edu/~dst/Amway/AUS/tools.htm will get you started.
The second time I was in Amway, my then wife, and I had lunch with a direct that was considered to be a “hotshot”, and who closely associated with a lot of the Amway leaders.
He said to us “I can’t wait to be a Diamond”.
I asked “So you can earn lots of dollars in bonuses?”
He said “No… I probably shouldn’t be telling you this but it is because as a diamond… I can get a cut of the tools money. They don’t like this to be known… but… that is where the big money is made.”
This information just about floored me.
Further to this… I also talked to a Diamond about it… and I am personally satisfied by his response that a significant proportion of the income is made as tools income.
I got the sense that this was a widespread phenomenon. After reading more about the court cases that have involved Amway… and other websites related to the issue… this feeling has only been reinforced.
I have nothing against Amway the company, I like the majority of their products, their marketing plan is quite acceptable to me… but I still have issues with the “tools” business.
In regard to “Who would be in the videos?”…
Firefox (the internet browser software) is arguably one of the best browsers in the world. How much do they charge for Firefox? Not $100, not $50, not even $5, but yours for the low, low, K-tel price of “free”. (The makers are happy to make their money in other ways.)
So… there is no direct correlation between the price we pay for something and it’s quality, or the value it has to us personally.
If I was a diamond and had large, secure income from Amway… I would be grateful to Amway… I would be more than willing to help other people whether I made anything from it personally or not.
If people were less greedy… and more giving… more willing to share… the world would be a better place.
March 3, 2009 at 09:48
exAmway, you might want to reread the article above and evaluate anything you read in that context. I’ll do a part II shortly. You might also want to read Amway/Quixtar Myths, Psycho-facts and the Internet Echo Chamber. You quote a decade old website article that, outside other flaws, mentions nobody outside of one Amway organisation! Why is it you think that every single lawsuit on this issue and every single news report or “book” on this issue are all about just one organisation and it’s affiliates? And why doesn’t it come up with anybody else? Worth thinking about, don’t you think? Even your conversation with your “direct” tells a lot. First I wonder where he got his information? The internet? Secondly, his statement itself shows the differences. What happens to an income if it is split up amongst many more people? It goes down, right? So imagine if this “diamond” tool money is spread amongst the many more Emeralds and the many many many more Platinums as well – everyone’s cut would be a lot less, yes? Well, today I believe every organisation offers volume rebates (ie tool money) to Platinums and above, and many of them have always done this. You’re information is outdated and you’re unfairly generalizing it from one group to all of Amway.
March 2, 2009 at 18:04
tools reports with summaries of all purchases are sent to all platinums and above monthly in N21, and I assume similar is done in BWW and other organisations.
March 2, 2009 at 17:34
I feel tools are really important to the very simple fact that u can’t say how good is ur business unless u have a system how to track what is the tool flow, how many are in monthly CD program, how many are attending seminars etc…
As simply, ur PV tells u where u are but ur Vital signs tell u where u will be.
Hence I feel buying from 3rd party companies can’t tell us where will or business be unless we have systems like N21 or BWW.
What is needed is more transperancy & some kind of P/L statement sent to all the participating ABO’s in the system at the end of the Amway year.
March 1, 2009 at 16:43
Conceding that tools are necessary for the sake of argument, what happens to downlines when they tell their sponsors or other ULs “no thanks, I can get a/v tools on eBay for $.10 a piece or less?
March 1, 2009 at 18:16
If the tools are up-to-date, approved for use by Amway, and your downline can do the same thing and their downline the same etc etc, go for it. The reality is that none of the above is true.
exAmway says:
February 28, 2009 at 05:22
I respect your views.
We must be traveling in vastly different circles if over a period of years you have not had a single negative reaction regarding Amway.
I would say that there would be many people who join Amway who have had no previous business experience, many young people also join Amway.
In my view they are looking for leadership, they are thinking “show me the money”. The idea promoted is that you will get all the necessary training to succeed.
So, in a way, the new IBO with no previous business experience is either largely or solely dependent on the information and training that they receive in Amway.
I therefore believe there is a duty of care on behalf of Amway and or the tools producers to ensure that the training is teaching them things that are in the best interest of the student.
If that training encourages them to overspend… and get their cashflow patterns out of whack… to focus on being positive rather than positive cashflow… it is the training that is at fault.
“No such thing as bad student, only bad teacher. Teacher say, student do. ” Mr. Miyagi Karate Kid
If the majority of the higher ups money is actually made through tool sales as claimed by many, and also suggested by my own inquiries… and the IBO is lead to believe that the tools are being supplied to them at cost.. and only to help the IBO… that is unethical in my view.
I do agree with you regarding a focus on retail sales though. Profit rules (providing you put people first of course)
If the investigations had nothing to do with tool sales then why would the profits made in tools be important to fund a legal defense? Aren’t the Amway business and the tools business largely separate businesses anyway?
I don’t have a problem making profits through the marketing plan… the issue for me is tools profit.
I was thinking about the training… and Amway could set up a website specifically for training IBOs… the could post videos that IBOs could view free of charge… and allow IBOs to download and distribute them free of charge to any downline that were not connected to the internet. It would cost them bugger all… and everybody but the tools sellers would benefit greatly.
It would kill the tools controversy once and for all… and save each IBO thousands of dollars over the course of their association with Amway… with the all the associated beneficial knock on effects that it would produce for the average IBO.
I am not going to hold my breath though.
February 28, 2009 at 13:56
Amway Global has a website setup with videos for training. I believe Amway UK has something similar too? The question is – who is on the videos? Wouldn’t top teachers who are also top achievers be the best ones to be doing the training? And you think top achievers should train their competitors for nothing?????
You say – If the majority of the higher ups money is actually made through tool sales as claimed by many, and also suggested by my own inquiries…
I’d like some more details on this. My own enquiries have found the opposite.
And to the original point – if you’re treating people as business owners that doesn’t mean you’re not providing training and support and advice – it means you’re expecting the IBOs to make the decisions, not act like employees and just do what their told whether they agree with it or not.
February 28, 2009 at 02:12
I can understand that it can get some what messy when we look at every possible sales..
But in that case we need to see if the sale of a tool by a ABO to another ABO can only benefit Amway business & no other business. Sale of Computers, cars, petrol, self help books can benefit any business not just Amway..But Tapes/CDs, seminars, website subscriptions specifically can be used only for Amway business hence can’t be sold for profit.simple…
Ideally, I would like to see System owners make no money from tools, but by the growth of Amway Business only. If they want to make profit let them be transparent about it.
U can say as a private business they need not disclose it but that’s where the problem & doubt starts & Amway should make sure they disclose it.
U may even say they should disclose their Amway income as well but that may not be necessary as Amway recognitions that happen every year & pictures in Amagram does tell who is growing.
I meant – “If u say that BWW or Yager does work for other companies who have nothing to do with Amway then why are they accredited or in the process of accredition by Amway in the first place?”
February 28, 2009 at 02:20
Well Zzz, I must respectfully disagree. For most of the last decade I haven’t been actively building an Amway business, but when possible I’ve been participating in “system” activities including attending seminars and buying books and CDs. They’ve been enormously useful. Heck I’ve even run seminars for third parties entirely based on materials I first acquired through “the system”, indeed I’ve got one coming up in a few weeks, and the organises will pay me more, and charge the participants more, than if I do the exact same seminar within the Amway system.
I’d note also there are “systems” available for Amway IBOs, dedicated towards building an Amway business, that are owned by people that *aren’t* Amway IBOs. There’s also the many more generic systems and tools dedicated to network marketing that aren’t owned by Amway IBOs – and tend to cost significantly more than similar systems owned by IBOs.
I still don’t understand the question? What does offering services to other people got to do with accreditation?
exAmway says:
February 28, 2009 at 00:08
ibofightback, you have misunderstood what I was suggesting.
I was not suggesting that individual IBOs supply the training materials for other individual IBOs. I was suggesting that Amway corp. itself could identify what techniques are currently working for people, and produce training dvds, or cd with those techniques… and either supply it to the IBOs as a tax deductible expense… or in a worst case scenario charge the IBO’s the cost price.
Why should Amway supply the tools at no cost/cost price? Ummm so their IBOs are better trained… that their IBOs make more money… are less likely to burn out… that Amway sell more product… make more profit… have a better reputation?
They wouldn’t do it because it would make too many higher ups lose a considerable proportion of their income…. but if they did… it would certainly benefit individual IBOs. Rather than costing more… it should cost IBOs considerably less.
Under this system there should be no need for ANY official investigations.
In the past when I told my upline I was having financial challenges… they would tell me that I needed to buy MORE tools not less.
I think one way around not knowing an individual IBOs financial position would be to give them advice upfront… “Don’t spend more money on tools or products than you can comfortably afford”. So the “Blame” is still with the upline … or probably more accurately “the system” as far as I am concerned. Blaming the individual IBO is blaming the victim in my opinion.
If you want to study a fight or flight response, you just have to mention the word “Amway” to a lot of people and watch their eyes glaze over. I don’t know of any other company that causes this same negative reaction. I suspect it is a hint.
I did find that Microsoft Mohave experiment interesting. I am however wondering how many people were in the original experiment, and were all results filmed, or just the ones that were positive for Microsoft? How long were the test subjects able to experience Vista before getting their reaction? If the continued to use Vista, and you visited those same subjects 6 months down the track would they still have that same positive reaction? Who funded the experiment?
If 10 people were in the experiment and all 10 people were filmed… okay that’s impressive… If 1000 people took part… and afterward 990 opinions were unchanged or became even more negative, only 10 changed their minds for the positive and were filmed… that would be not so flash.
If you can’t openly tell people what company that you work with without making your prospecting job more difficult… I think that is another hint.
To each their own though. If you are happy doing what you are doing… that is all that matters I guess.
I wish you all every success. Have great lives. Peace and goodwill to you all.
February 28, 2009 at 00:21
exAmway, over the last few years I’ve shown the Amway business to at least a dozen folk from “old” Amway markets like the US, Australia, and the UK. Not a single one of them had their “eyes glaze over”. Most were neutral or had never even heard of it. The balance were positive. Why am I getting such a different “hint” than you?
Now with regard to Amway providing all the materials, that’s an option too. My personal opinion is that having a variety of different systems drives innovation, too much central control stifles innovation. On the other hand, a lack of central control leads to other problems of distributor behaviour. Some balance is needed, where the ideal point is I don’t pretend to know. Either way I don’t think anyone can seriously consider a few hundred bucks a month expensive to run a business. It’s cheap! To my mind the problem isn’t the expense, it’s the income. A “buy from yourself” model which many have promoted, minimizing or completely doing away with retail sales, means overall profit is less and takes longer to obtain. Focus should be on the poor income of new distributors, not the expenses.
I’ve no idea how you can claim that under your proposal “there should be no need for ANY official investigations.”??? The UK investigation had nothing to do with tools. The Andra Pradesh investigation has nothing to do with tools. The FTC investigation in the US had nothing to do with tools.
I also think your whole “it’s blaming the victim” approach exacerbates the problem of excessive tools! By claiming that, you’re effectively saying that IBOs shouldn’t be expected to take any responsibility for their own decisions. Don’t you think that treating IBOs like independent business owners, and expecting them to make decisions like independent owners … don’t you that would have a more positive influence on the problem you’re talking about?
February 27, 2009 at 21:10
Well, the thing is the statistics show that doubling the tool and function numbers WILL tend to have a significant effect on your Amway business – if they new this, an upline would be derelict in the duty to not promote it.
But what you say at the beginning is really the issue, it’s overpromotion of the tools without accounting properly for an individuals circumstances. I actually think part of the “blame” here rests with the individual IBOs though, because in my experience they’re often unlikely to tell their upline about financial challenges they’re having. Without that knowledge any advice can easily be wrong. Having said that, if we know that people are unlikely to tell us that, then we need to incorporate that knowledge into any strategy.
The problem with going away from subscription type systems is that you don’t know what you need or want until you hear it, and even worse, you’ll tend to avoid stuff that doesn’t suit you, but it may be crucial for your downline. I had that experience early in my career where I signed up a bunch of new folk on our tape program and the very first tape that came through I thought was one of the biggest pieces of cr** I’d heard. I still think it. I was horrified about what the new downline would think. Then one called up and ordered 5 copies because he loved it and wanted to give it to friends! We have to experience materials that suite all types in our business, not just what we self-select.
passed says:
February 27, 2009 at 21:03
Guys the issue is not the tools or the tool money..the issue become when uplines start to push downlines to come to functions and buy more tools, when they actually don’t need it or can’t afford.
Statements which created all these problems are:
“Tools are optional, so is success”
“You can skip meals to pay for functions”
“Take loans to come to function or pay for monthly tools”
These are things are said and implemented by various diamonds in different systems to get people to functions and buy more tools. While function and tools are great way of motivating someone, but you can not just promote that and push people to pay for it even if when they have money challenge and other issues.
In my brief experience with the business, I have seen that the LOS which emphasis of creating early retail profits have great success ratio, then the LOS which emphasis more on tools.
The best option should be that IBOs should be able to buy the tools and function tickets directly from the system website (individual systems already have website), instead of have to pay for monthly subscription. That way IBOs can crontrol how much money they want to spend, when they want to spend. Uplines can always suggest which tools can be used..or better system can have emails sent to IBOs about new tools and a little information about what they can be used for etc.
Recently we got an email from a Diamond, and at the bottom, he mentioned as goal “Double the Tools and Numbers to function”..these are few things which makes me think twice about the tool business..
February 27, 2009 at 18:38
zigzagzoom, the UK business was not suspended because of tool money. The judge explictly stated in the court case it wasn’t about tool money. Some people tried to spin it as that, but the case was about misrepresentation of incomes.
The ticket price comment is somewhat naive. No company in the events/education arena operates on a per-event basis. Some things lose money, some things make money. Amway apparently lost a LOT of money on the Expo events. They’re paying for this stuff by pumping money in from abroad. I’m also wondering how often the “leaders” as at the current seminars are from outside the UK/ROI? The “out of town expert with a briefcase” effect is real. Speakers you are not familar with are more effective. Local ones are cheaper, costs are lower. As it happens sources inside the company tell me N21 UK has been just like Amway UK – losing money for years, supported by operations abroad.
If u say that BWW or Yager does lot more then why are they accredited or in the process of accredition by Amway in the first place.
Finally you say –
If ABO wants to start any other business let them start it but if they sell its products to Amway ABO’s to help Amway business they can make no money from those sales. Period
The direct implications of this is that, for just one example, no Amway IBO can be a shareholder in Amazon. It’s also legally very very very shaky. Network 21 UK is not an ABO, it is an independent “legal person”. Amway has no right to tell it who it can market it’s products to. Amway can try to limit things through processes like accreditation, but even there if they went too far they would almost certainly breaking the law and could have their butts sued – successfully.
Of course, given BSM is defined as anything that is used to support your business, then you’re also saying that any ABO who owns say a computer store would need to ask all their customers if they were ABOs or not, and refuse to sell to them if they were ABOs. Same with a bookstore, a petrol station, a car dealership, a phone shop, a phone company etc etc. ABOs wouldn’t even be able to be shareholders in any of those companies!
You might think this all sounds ridiculous but those are the logical and legal outcomes of what you are saying should happen.
February 27, 2009 at 18:20
Let Amway & the system company decide what percentage of profit as reserves based on their experience & also let the ABO’s vote how much they would like to see as reserves every year on system profit in the market they are building the business.
Intention is not on whether reserves are kept or not but is it transparent or not.
I am not saying specifically Jim or Yager is making more money from system but my question why they need to make that income at all & create doubt if they don’t want to be transparent.
This doubt increases when u come to know that the seminar which was costing 15pounds is now costing 5.50 pounds in the same hall & the leaders are still happy to come & build the business when no one is making a penny from the system. The raise in the value of the ticket price just to put N21 tag don’t stake up that well.
Amazon doesn’t profess to sell in the pretext that we help build successful Amway business. N21 or Britt or Yager services does that. If u say that BWW or Yager does lot more then why are they accredited or in the process of accredition by Amway in the first place.
I am not suggesting that IBO’s shouldn’t have other businesses but when their other businesses supports only Amway then they have to come & Amway regulation.
IBOFB- u may not be bothered how much money is made by the system but it bothers me especially when my business was stopped in the UK with no fault of my own.
If ABO wants to start any other business let them start it but if they sell its products to Amway ABO’s to help Amway business they can make no money from those sales. Period
February 27, 2009 at 17:06
Ok, so it seems you agree that need to have profits, even if just for reserves, who gets to decide how much?
You say What worries me & a lot others that if Dornan or Yager makes X dollars from Amway & they seem to make lot more than X million dollars from their system.
(1) How do you know this? (2) I don’t know about Dornan, but Yager Internet services and BWW does work for many companies that have nothing to do with Amway. You seem to be suggesting that IBOs should not be able to earn income from other businesses? At what point does this stop? Amazon.com makes money out of my Amway business because I by books from them. Are you suggesting Amazon.com executives and/or shareholders should not be allowed to be IBOs, or vice versa?
If we look at the UK situation, you first of all make some unsubstantiated claims. Amway has no idea what incomes IBOs make from other businesses, including any tool businesses. The issue in the UK was that some IBOs (IBS was named in the complaint, nobody else) were stating Amway incomes on websites that they weren’t actually earning. But let’s take Jim Dornan again – he has no Amway business in the UK. He owns N21. Why shouldn’t N21 be allowed to sell products to Amway IBOs? If he became a major shareholder in Amazon.com, would amazon.com be barred from selling to IBOs?
Finally, you say “income from systems is the most bothering issues even for ABO’s who are building the business.”
Doesn’t bother me at all. Didn’t bother me a decade ago when I joined, and assumed that people made money on this stuff, and it doesn’t bother me now. Why should it???
Well, we’re covering issues I was planning to talk about in Part II, III etc. Guess I better get to work on them
February 27, 2009 at 16:53
IBOFB,
My comments are just pulled to the extreme in one go. But I shall try to answer..
1. Direct Answer: The reserves should take care of it. We can work on how much the reserves can be looking at these kinds of eventualities as a part of Accredition
Indirect Answer: Why did the UK issue come up? Amway’s letter mentioned very clearly that ABO’s make more money from Systems than from Amway & nothing was transparent. Over the years the complaints built & BERR had to act.
If we make it more transparent as I have mentioned then I am sure the issue like UK will not repeat
2. Reserves again pays for new market Or other way is Amway pays for all new market launches
3. R&D is a part of any business. Nothing is stopping it. What I want to see is how money is spent on this.
What worries me & a lot others that if Dornan or Yager makes X dollars from Amway & they seem to make lot more than X million dollars from their system. If they make it let them state it as a part of annual statement that is will be sent to the ABO’s annually.
Systems based on Amway business owned by ABO’s are not normal businesses. Hence they need to be regulated. Problem arises because Amway never regulated them in the past. Also this is a franchise business & the attitude “we are different from other Amway guys” doesn’t work. If one falls everyone gets bad name.
Free market- Let me ask u why is the world in crisis today economically.. If feel it is because of free market. Free market is great but it can be screwed up if not regulated.
I will tell u that a news paper reported more sales of Karl Marx books now than ever before.
I don’t want to get into the discussion on Communism or Free market here but free market has it pitfalls.
I understand the crap will not go but an ABO should atleast have an answer for the crap(not for every crap but most common craps) & what Amway has done about it especially if a prospect brings a print out on ur followup.
U should agree that income from systems is the most bothering issues even for ABO’s who are building the business.
February 27, 2009 at 15:47
Oh, and one last thing. You say – This will reduce all the crap out in the internet and make it more credible.
How exactly? Most of “the crap” that comes up on the first couple of pages of a google search of Amway is a decade old! It’s not going anywhere. It’s not suddenly going to be deleted just because Amway’s changed something. The fact there’s hardly any “new” stuff might indicate things have changed already – but the crap is still there.
February 27, 2009 at 15:45
ZigZagZoom, a few questions –
(1)Who pays the millions in legal fees if a “system company” is investigated by a government body driven by zealotry, as happened in the UK, and the case is dropped even before it gets to court. Does the company go around to all the IBOs and ask for money back to pay for it?
(2)Who pays the millions needed to be invested when Amway opens in a new market? Does the “system company” go around and ask for donations from all the IBOs that might someday have a downline in that country?
(3)Who pays the hundreds of thousands of dollars that need to be invested in R&D for new “tools”, like WWDB’s customer portals, or N21’s Channel-21 streaming service etc etc etc. Do the “system companies” go around and ask IBOs to invest?
Wouldn’t it be simpler for them just to be normal companies like any other company?
Finally, why on earth should a company sell products to people for no profit? Dornan makes nothing from Amway out of most people who buy N21 products. Yagers makes nothing from Amway out of most people who buy Internet Services products.
Such a restraint of trade seems completely contrary to the very free market principles Amway is about.
February 27, 2009 at 15:28
I do want to still argue for a global system managed by Amway & IBOAI but that does wind up a lot of people.
But I feel looking at all the comments, it is time that the tool income is made transparent & ABO’s can’t make money from Tools & systems is made clear by Amway.
I am not saying profit shouldn’t be made but the profit has to be only paid for salaries for employees working in the system, seminar hall costs, some percentage is kept for reserves. Finally if after settling all this if profit is lying around it should be given back to the ABO at the end of the Amway year based on the share that each ABO who contributed for the system by buying tools & attending seminars.
Just the Amway sends a bonus statement to us, we can get a tools statement showing the break up & clearly mentioning what is the share of the profit.
This will reduce all the crap out in the internet and make it more credible.
Remember everyone is in the business to make money from Amway not from the system that helps u build Amway.
February 27, 2009 at 06:44
I think one of the biggest problems with the tools, is that people do not use it, and also don’t apply what is in there if they do read it/ listen to it. I haven’t been able to translate the training into a successful Amway business personally, we’re still bouncing along at 9-15% leader’s club. But then I have also applied the same learning to my consulting activities, and my income there has increased 3-4 fold in the last 5 years, and I am currently negotiating a contract that will double that again.
I think people sometimes think that buying the tools, gives you a big business in return. It doesn’t, it gives you some information to use while learning how to build a big business. And I will not miss a Weekend Seminar if I can help it.
February 27, 2009 at 04:51
exAmway,
The “tools” (which are simply professional, business training materials) are optional. At all times. Period. We ask people where they’re at when they start. For example, are they at the retail client, prosumer or business builder level? If they tell us business builder, we will consistently promote the ‘system’ so they get trained, get motivated, get the association they need to build a strong foundation for their business. I always tell them about the “free” training via the Amway Global website as well as the “free” websites they can take advantage of. We do their first Grand Opening for them, we even provide some samples & brochures to help get them started. We offer to show the first few plans & product demo’s for them until they feel comfortable (they should be present for training purposes). But, after that exAmway, they’re on their own. These are, after all, adults. And this is, after all, a business.
By the way, if we hand-held every new business builder IBO and personally spent all our time, samples, brochures, money & energy on training them, we would run out of time, samples, brochures, money & energy with nothing but debt as a result!
There’s a reason this system is in place and there’s a reason so few have succeeded (relative to the number of those who have tried). That is, because MOST people are not willing to do what it takes, period.
Our experience has been that when we are CORE, we make money. When we’re not, our business shrinks and we make less money.
exAmway says:
February 27, 2009 at 03:22
Bridgett I understand your confusion, I am a little bewildered myself. Although I did not mention Amway by name on my site… I apparently gave enough detail that it could have been identified by a process of elimination. I am not in China no.
To my knowledge the distributors in my upline don’t have the power to ban me, and so I assume that it is coming from Amway itself. I further assume that I will be getting written conformation soon.
It is all very strange. If you don’t believe me… that is okay… I can understand that… it is however true to the best of my knowledge. If it turns out to be not the case… I will apologize post an update.
ibofightback I agree that there are certain skills needed for success in Amway. I agree that training, and a system is required… but if your upline has the skills to get where he/she is… why shouldn’t they share that information with you for free? It would be mutually beneficial.
Most companies I have had anything to do with have training as an expense… they don’t expect their employees to pay for it. I realize that IBO’s are not employees, but I think the same principle should apply. That’s my view anyway. I could be wrong.
No I am not in the USA, but we have Amway here too.
My treatment has made me a bit cranky, and I just needed to vent. Sorry about that.
Good luck with it all. I wish you all the very best.
exAmway
February 27, 2009 at 09:36
exAmway, in general, at least in my LOA, upline does share their skills for free in smaller LOS meetings and counselling sessions. The reason why they don’t buy your tools for you is simple – if they did you’d be spending a lot more! Why? Well, if they have to pay for you, when you become an upline then you have to pay for your downline’s tools. So instead of paying for just your own tools, you’re now having to pay for 4,5,6,20 whatever frontline IBOs as well. Much more sensible if every individual pays for their own training.
So, if you were my downline I’d say to you something quite simple. I’m perfectly willing to pay for your training – if you’re perfectly willing to pay for it for your downline!
As for the website, yes write to Amway and ask for a reason. I’m curious how you know you are banned though if you haven’t received such a notification? Without wanting to state the obvious, are you sure you didn’t just miss your renewal? It’s normally jan/feb time frame when access is blocked for folk who didn’t renew.
Bridgett says:
February 26, 2009 at 23:27
exAmway,
I’m confused. If you didn’t mention Amway by name on your website, then how could you be “banned for life”?
And who banned you? The distributors in your Upline or Amway Corporation?
And this is in China?
Trying to get clarity. Thanks!
exAmway says:
February 26, 2009 at 23:15
ibofightback, Thank you for you post. You seem quite a fair minded person. Thank you for that also.
What disappointed me most was the way in which the whole issue was handled. I think the proper procedure would have been for the upline that reported me to have spoken to me first. If I had been uncooperative… then report me.
I should have then been sent a fax or e-mail asking me to temporarily withdraw the website, and for a “please explain”. If my answer was unsatisfactory… then ban me for life. If my answer was reasonable, they should have told me the exact modifications they wanted me to make to the website… and given me the chance to comply.
What did happen though was game of “Chinese Whispers”, nobody contacted me directly. In fact they prevented other distributors from even speaking to me… and visa versa. As far as I can tell the big boys spoke to the platinums, who spoke to some 18%ers, who spoke to my partner, who spoke to me.
They banned me for life without hearing my side of the story… or giving me a chance to comply.
I figure if they are going to be like that… I am probably better off out of it.
Building an Amway business without buying the tools sounds like a good idea in theory, but in practice you are going against the flow of most organizations and you had better be prepared to be “on the outer”, and cop some flack. You had also better get used to saying “No” quite a lot. (From my experience)
I was even told by one distributor that if I was not in the tools system that I was only a “temporary distributor”. I argued with him at the time… but as it turns out… he was right.
February 27, 2009 at 00:29
exAmway, actually I don’t think it’s really the feasible to build a long-term sustainable Amway business without using some sort of “tools” and “system”. That’s a basic business principle, not just for Amway. The problem is as you described in your first post, we’re peoples finances get out whack and it doesn’t contribute to success – indeed to the contrary, just to stress and failure.
Frankly the banning part all sounds a bit odd. If you’d like to explain anything privately feel free to email me direct (ibofightback@mlmfacts.net). I’m even more curious given where your IP address says you’re posting from!
exAmway says:
February 26, 2009 at 14:06
I thought I would try Amway again, but this time I decided not to participate in the books, tapes, seminars and rallies thing. I understood the situation much better this time.
I put up a website which detailed one of my previous experiences in Amway (all true)… but I didn’t mention Amway by name.
I have done, and seen people do crazy stuff to try and get ahead in Amway.
I thought I could help people by giving them advice like don’t spend more money on sales aids, and products than you can comfortably afford, and only buy products that you would normally use, or could reasonably sell. Don’t spend hundreds of dollars to get a $6 bonus check.
I thought this would create a more stable system, and stop people from going broke and burning out, and thereby help everyone.
I thought that if people were not under financial stress while building their Amway business, they would have far less reason to drop out.
One of my upline reported the site to the higher ups… and in spite of my good intentions… I was banned for life.
It is a pity… because Amway in theory has many potential benefits… and if you can understand, and avoid the potential pitfalls you should theoretically be able to do well.
It doesn’t seem good enough to make a living anymore, you have to make a killing… regardless of how many people get hurt in the process.
I personally think Amway is a great idea, ruined by the greed of a few.
February 26, 2009 at 17:24
exAmway, I agree with much of what you say, but I’d argue Amway hasn’t been ruined … merely damaged. There are already significant numbers of people building the business exactly the way you “recommended”. Why you were banned and had your website shutdown I can’t say without having seen it. There’s usually more than one side to every story and with websites it can be a fine line to determine whether it’s broken the rules or not. If it truly was an innocent misunderstanding then I’m sure the door is not permanently closed.
Brent says:
September 14, 2010 at 09:44
I recently joined Amway. But after doing some research on the internet I feel rather despondent and have thought that perhaps I should pull out.
I don’t want to do anything that is unethical. I am part of the Yager group, but after reading about Mr Yager and his wife, I do not want to associate with that name really.
If Amway can be done truly ethically and morally I would like to continue. But I don’t want to deceive people and sell over-priced products if that’s the only way to do well in the business.
Is Amway really about exploiting the masses so that a few might be rich?
September 14, 2010 at 12:28
Brent, there’s an easy solution – don’t deceive people, and don’t sell over-priced products! Neither is necessary to success in Amway, and neither is recommended. I do however recommend you expand your research outside of the internet. There have been many books about Amway, including commentary about the Yagers, by professional historians, academics, business leaders and more. They are overwhelmingly positive about the company and business model.
As for Dexter Yager and his wife, I have no personal experience of them. I’ve seen some of their stuff posted by critics on the internet, and I don’t agree with some of it (we disagree on religion for example) but I’ve also found much of it positive (they came across well in the old 60 minutes program on Amway, I thought). Either way it’s not really that relevant as I believe their sons are now running Yager Internet, so it’s really them you should be concerned with, and I’m yet to encounter much in the way of criticism of their approach in the past decade.
Amway, like any successful business, should be about problem solving. Helping people with a product that solves a need they have – whether it be Nutrilite to help with health, SA8 to help with washing, or a business opportunity to help with finances and possibilities. Or, like any other business, you can try and exploit people to get rich. In my experience and research, even if the latter works, it doesn’t tend to last long.
August 25, 2012 at 01:07
I strongly agree.
Jeffrey says:
February 25, 2009 at 22:18
keyurkeyur, how much money is made from a Platinumship is dependent on many things: width, depth, number of people in group, average volume per each IBO which includes self-use and retail sales. I know Founders Platinums that make a very large income from the business, and I know Platinums that qualify “by the skin of their teeth” on the last hour of the last day of the month.
Kelly, your plan sounds great, except that there is a lot more than soap. My wife and I used to focus strictly on home care, but now we focus on several lines. We are having great success with the Nutrilite Twist Tubes, Nutrilite Daily, and the XS Energy Drinks.
I do not participate in my upline’s tapes (CDs), books and functions system, but proper training is critical to get off to a good start. Click on my name and you can send me an e-mail through my personal retail website and let’s chat.
Bridgett says:
February 25, 2009 at 09:49
It depends on the country you’re in. The percentages and the parameters are differnt in different parts of the world.
I’m in North America, which has a different comp plan, even at the Silver/Platinum level.
What country do you live?
IBOFB could probably direct you to a good source for the numbers, since he’s over in Europe and has business in more than one country.
February 25, 2009 at 16:39
uuurgghh … not so simple to explain! Someone complained earlier today the “how it works” link on AmwayWiki was blank, guess maybe I need to dedicate some time to fixing that.
February 25, 2009 at 08:21
I know i should not be posting this question here, so please execuse me for this :).
See I have understood how one can go from 6% to 21% commission and how one becomes a silver.
but i don’t know how much commission you get after silver pins. i mean how much do you earn when you are a platinum or a emarald or a diamond? how it is calculated?
I would really appreciate if you could please help me with this.
Bridgett says:
February 25, 2009 at 02:07
You may also want to look into some of the other product lines…like Artistry and Nutrilite.
Kelly Elder says:
February 24, 2009 at 08:16
I am thinking about getting back into Amway, and running it like Rich and Jay did when they started… selling soap and signing up people to buy wholesale to sell soap and to sign up a few people and so on… I am going to stay away from “Books, Tapes, and Functions…” and just focus on selling soap and sponsoring people who want to sell soap.
August 25, 2012 at 01:03
I think that is an excellant Idea. I was thinking of doing that myself. I was going to call that Amway Pure.
Qualified Platinum says:
February 21, 2009 at 20:44
For anyone to think that the BSM income is included in the Amway 8 billion figure exposes their lack of knowledge of how year end figures are stated. The BSM income is TOTALLY separate from the Amway income and is listed on a separate 1099 tax form. Yes, there is income involved in the “tools” of the business as are ALL motivational literature and materials from ANY company.
Any tutorial service that is associated with business makes separate income from the materials. This is and has been common business practice for most business for decades.
February 12, 2009 at 02:31
Excellent first post. Thank you especially for beginning with a definition of the discussion; I’m sure this is the first time I see it done.
Looking forward to part II, very curious to see where you and I agree and disagree.
Leave a Reply to Zigzagzoom Cancel reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
Recent Posts
Amway reports sales of $8.8 billion for for 2018
Rich DeVos, cofounder of Amway, has passed away at age 92.
Avon closing in Australia and New Zealand
Amway sales begin to rebound
Ron Puryear has died
Amway revenues drop 12% to $9.5billion
15 consecutive months of growth for Amway North America
No news is good news!
Is Amway suffering from “big company syndrome”?
Amway sales drop 8% to $10.8 billion
Amway buys XS energy drinks
Jon Bastile on Who is Amway critic Joecool? And does he owe me $50000?
Prakash on Bill Britt has died
Valia Rose Phoenix on A critic visits the IBOAI
Rich Gallippi on Bill Britt has died
Anand Shethi on Amway reports sales of $8.8 billion for for 2018
Arnold on I quit
joe on Bill Britt has died
Independent Amway Blogs
Adi and Iin – Leaders of the Field
The World According to Bridgett
Alticor
Amway
advertising
Alticor
Amway
Amway Australia
Amway UK
average income
Class Action
income
reputation
sales
sponsorship
Get the facts about Amway
Thanks for visiting! This site is my personal opinions about the Amway company. I've been researching, blogging and commenting on Amway and Multilevel Marketing for more than a decade. Contrary what you may read by people who don't like what I have to say, this site and my commentary is not endorsed or financially supported in any way by Amway, Alticor, the IBOAI or any other affiliated companies or organizations.
Follow TTAA on
Amway is not a scam - but you can still be scammed.
Amway Success - What are your odds?
Amway critics and credibility - another one bites the dust
Amway Products (43)
Critics of Amway (51)
Amway Russia (2)
Amway Poland (1)
Archives Select Month February 2019 (1) January 2019 (1) September 2018 (1) February 2018 (3) June 2016 (1) February 2016 (1) January 2016 (1) September 2015 (1) June 2015 (1) February 2015 (2) January 2015 (1) November 2014 (1) September 2014 (1) July 2014 (2) June 2014 (2) May 2014 (2) April 2014 (2) March 2014 (1) February 2014 (3) November 2013 (1) September 2013 (1) August 2013 (4) May 2013 (2) April 2013 (1) March 2013 (4) February 2013 (5) January 2013 (4) December 2012 (2) November 2012 (1) September 2012 (2) August 2012 (4) July 2012 (5) May 2012 (1) April 2012 (1) March 2012 (1) February 2012 (1) December 2011 (2) November 2011 (1) October 2011 (6) September 2011 (2) August 2011 (2) July 2011 (1) June 2011 (2) May 2011 (2) March 2011 (2) February 2011 (5) January 2011 (2) December 2010 (2) November 2010 (2) August 2010 (3) May 2010 (1) April 2010 (4) March 2010 (5) February 2010 (2) January 2010 (5) November 2009 (4) October 2009 (8) September 2009 (6) August 2009 (5) July 2009 (2) June 2009 (3) May 2009 (8) April 2009 (3) March 2009 (5) February 2009 (5) January 2009 (9) December 2008 (6) November 2008 (3) October 2008 (12) September 2008 (8) August 2008 (12) July 2008 (8) June 2008 (4) May 2008 (16) April 2008 (11) March 2008 (17) February 2008 (15) January 2008 (12) December 2007 (8) November 2007 (18) October 2007 (17) September 2007 (23) August 2007 (36) July 2007 (8) June 2007 (13) May 2007 (23) April 2007 (3) March 2007 (7) February 2007 (6) January 2007 (11) December 2006 (12) November 2006 (23) October 2006 (14) September 2006 (15) August 2006 (42)
Amway in the News
Immune Health Supplements Market Size Growing at 6.5% CAGR to hit USD 65190 million by 2028 | Amway, Bayer AG, - openPR December 5, 2022
Commercial Water Filtration System Market Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Regional Development, Latest investme - openPR December 5, 2022
TOP TEN THINGS TO KNOW THIS WEEK - Bungalower December 5, 2022
Scott Holtzman reflects on career after UFC Orlando retirement, being son’s superhero - MMA Fighting December 5, 2022
Video: Jonathan Pearce 'threw up' after choking on Darren Elkins' blood at UFC Orlando - msnNOW December 4, 2022
| 81,849 |
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – American International College Director of Athletics Matt Johnson announced the hiring of a new women's head coach and assistant coach effective immediately.
Dimitri Efthimiou will take the reigns, as the 2014 fall season is already in full swing, and he will be assisted by Laura Carney.
Efthimiou replaces a very successful coach in Melanie Denham, who compiled a 22-6 record in her two seasons at AIC and left the program after the Yellow Jackets' third-place finish at DI nationals. Denham is pursuing a similar opportunity at new varsity program Central Washington University.
Efthimiou joins AIC after coaching the Boston Women's RFC to a near-perfect season, falling one game short of reaching the Division I championship last spring. He also coached the Royals, which won the women's Las Vegas 7s Invitational over Japan's select side.
Efthimiou's passion for rugby dates back to high school where he excelled at scrumhalf and captained the team for two years. After graduation he participated in several tours with the USA 7s team and Tiger Rugby. Efthimiou then received a trial with the Leicester Tigers in the UK, and spent two years with the Northern Suburbs RFC (Sydney, Australia) in the NSW Premiership.
Carney is a local of western Massachusetts, graduating from Agawam High School and coaching Mount Holyoke from 2009-2013. She has a master's degree in strength and conditioning from Springfield College, where she is currently finishing her PhD in exercise physiology.
Carney began her rugby career in 2007 playing for the Cincinnati Kelts as inside center and wing. The Kelts placed 2nd in the 2007 Midwest Championship, earning a place in the Division II National Championship where the Kelts placed 7th. She is the current captain and flyhalf of the Springfield Rifles, which won the NERFU DIII title last season.
So far this fall the women's team is 3-0 with victories over UConn, Harvard and Northeastern, and will battle with Norwich on Saturday at 11 a.m. in the first test for Efthimiou and Carney since being hired.
Share on Facebook
The Goff Rugby Report is run by Alex Goff and concentrates on HS and college rugby, and the USA national teams.
© Copyright 2022 Goff Rugby Report and Goff Communications, LLC
12.01.2022 - 11:59AM Lots of talk about shifts in Sevens World Series. Now we know exactly how it will look for 23-24. Fewer men's teams… https://t.co/XD01X8HNQx
| 2,530 |
The suitcase lay outside next to the garbage can…so rank and disgusting in smell, even flies avoided it…
Continue reading “Prologue to the Northern Tier 1.3” →
Nick Patrone Uncategorized 6 Comments April 13, 2018 April 15, 2018
The cotton candy was melting from the heat…another unbearable Virginia summer afternoon…but this one was different. My sister, all of 8, and I, her 13 year old brother, were standing before “ Lightning Ball ”, a vintage nickel pinball machine on the side floor of a local auction house. “She” had seen better days… a crusted brown tag said “ Needs Work ”.
My father wandered by, stopped ,and caressed the flipper buttons: “ I used to play her ”.
From both of us “ Dad, just 25$…can we buy it? ” Continue reading “Prologue to the Northern Tier 1.2” →
Nick Patrone Uncategorized 5 Comments April 9, 2018 April 12, 2018
Posting by Month
Posting by Month Select Month June 2022 (9) May 2022 (5) April 2022 (2) February 2022 (1) October 2020 (2) April 2020 (1) March 2020 (1) January 2020 (1) October 2019 (1) September 2019 (23) July 2019 (1) February 2019 (1) December 2018 (1) August 2018 (5) July 2018 (31) June 2018 (28) May 2018 (8) April 2018 (3) March 2018 (3)
Past Entries Select Month June 2022 (9) May 2022 (5) April 2022 (2) February 2022 (1) October 2020 (2) April 2020 (1) March 2020 (1) January 2020 (1) October 2019 (1) September 2019 (23) July 2019 (1) February 2019 (1) December 2018 (1) August 2018 (5) July 2018 (31) June 2018 (28) May 2018 (8) April 2018 (3) March 2018 (3)
| 1,596 |
Ewan McGregor stars with Academy Award winners George Clooney, Kevin Spacey and Jeff Bridges in The Men Who Stares at Goats. It’s a film about the current war in Iraq that tries to mix the sort wartime black comedy that worked so effectively in M*A*S*H and Clooney’s previous Iraq film, Three Kings. Unfortunately, despite excellent production value and noble efforts by all of the main and supporting cast, The Men Who Stare at Goats is a disappointment.
McGregor is Bob Wilton, a recently divorced reporter from Ann Arbor, Michigan who wants to make his mark in the world of journalism. The most interesting piece he’s written is about a man named Gus, who claims to have been a military psychic warrior. Gus (played by veteran character actor, Stephen Root) seems to have a couple screws loose. Soon after Bob’s wife leaves him and he decides that going to Iraq to cover the war is what he needs; it’s his purpose.
Bob finds himself in Kuwait, desperate to cross the border and get in the shit. Unfortunately he doesn’t have any contacts to get him over there. A chance encounter in a hotel bar changes his life. Bob meets Lyn Cassady (Clooney), a name he recognizes from his interview with Gus. Lyn is kind of squirrely, as if he’s taken one two many hits to the head, or perhaps one two many hits of acid. Bob manages to get Lyn to open up about his history with a top secret Army unit training to be psychic spies; ”Jedi Warriors.”
The leader of this unit, the New Earth Army, was Bill Django (Bridges), a Vietnam Veteran who traveled the country in the 1970’s visiting a variety of New Age movements. It was Django’s thinking that there had to be a better way of fighting wars, a way that didn’t involve weapons of mass destruction. He spent years traveling to communes and ”finding himself” and he came up with the idea for psychic spies: men who could walk through walls, move objects with their minds, see the future, and stare at goats until their hearts stop.
Somehow, Django convinced the Army to fund his project and he recruited a group of soldiers who danced and chanted and took plenty of LSD. One of those men was Lyn. Another man was Larry Hooper (Spacey), a man jealous of Django’s power and a man who saw the benefits of using psychic abilities for darker reasons. Eventually, Hooper mechanizes Django’s downfall and the guru of the Arm disappeared.
All of this vital back-story is interspersed throughout the film. It’s interesting information, however it comes at the most inopportune moments, interrupting the flow of the story. Coupled with McGregor’s continuous voice over and The Men Who Stare at Goats feels like one long first act of a movie that leads into the third act.
In real time, Lyn takes Bob into Iraq on a secret mission. As soon as they cross the border, the two men become a sort of 21st Century Hope and Crosby, on the road to Iraq. They get held at gunpoint by an angry criminal gang, crash their car, get rescued, hi-jacked by a private security firm and wind up in the middle of plenty of gunfire.
As I said earlier, almost everything about The Men Who Stare at Goats is top notch. All four actors bring their best comedic timing to the table. McGregor is wide eyed and amazed, similar to what he did in Moulin Rouge, Clooney has that wild eyed stare he did so well in O Brother, Where Art Thou! Bridges appears to be channeling the dude once again, and Spacey is perfect as the oily and sneaky Hooper. The cinematography is outstanding, the editing flows seamlessly between the present and the past, the music is spot on, and the direction by Grant Heslov is excellent. Thus, it’s a great surprise and an even greater disappointment that the film just doesn’t click. Even with all of these elements in place, the narrative of the film and the story itself just don’t come off as very interesting. Worse, there are moments when the movie is just flat and boring.
I suppose that the fault lies in the screenplay and the overuse of voiceovers and flashbacks. By cutting away from the main storyline too many times, the film suffers and never feels in sync. Whether this was a decision on the part of Heslov, or it was in the shooting script, I don’t know. What I do know is that The Men Who Stare at Goats is one film that I watched once and will not be watching again.
The DVD features are very limited. The highlight of the bonuses is a behind the scenes featurette that included interviews with the cast and the crew. The various trailers for the film (which make the movie appear a lot funnier than it is) round out the special features.
Related
Tagged in:
Comments
Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus.
About the Author
Scott Malchus is a writer, filmmaker and die hard Cleveland Indians fan. His memoir, “Basement Songs,†is available in paperback and Kindle. He wrote and directed the film “King's Highway." His family is heavily involved in fund raising to find a cure for cystic fibrosis. Scott Malchus is an employee of Cartoon Network and Turner Broadcasting. The opinions expressed on Popdose are his own and do not reflect those of his employer. Email: Malchus@popdose.com. Follow him @MrMalchus
| 5,343 |
Paul’s Island in Malta is known as the location where Paul and Luke were shipwrecked on their way to Rome. Many of the crew who worked on the film were culled from HBO’s Game of Thrones, another production filmed in Malta.
How accurate is the movie Paul Apostle of Christ?
Historians and biblical scholars will find errors throughout the movie. One only has to be a careful reader of the New Testament to know something is wrong with the depiction of Paul virtually dictating the book of Acts to Luke.
Who is Priscilla in Bible?
Priscilla was a woman of Jewish heritage and one of the earliest known Christian converts who lived in Rome. Her name is a Roman diminutive for Prisca which was her formal name. She is often thought to have been the first example of a female preacher or teacher in early church history.
What was the end of Apostle Paul?
The exact details of St. Paul’s death are unknown, but tradition holds that he was beheaded in Rome and thus died as a martyr for his faith. His death was perhaps part of the executions of Christians ordered by the Roman emperor Nero following the great fire in the city in 64 CE.
How long did Luke travel with Paul?
Luke dropped off at Philippi Paul then stayed in Corinth for 18 months (Acts 18:10). This sojourn can be dated from the end of 49 AD to mid-51 AD.
Did Saint Paul know Jesus?
According to both sources, Paul was not a follower of Jesus and did not know him before his crucifixion. Paul’s conversion occurred after Jesus’s crucifixion. The accounts of Paul’s conversion experience describe it as miraculous, supernatural, or otherwise revelatory in nature.
How does Paul describe Jesus?
In Philippians 2:6–11 Paul states that Christ Jesus was preexistent and came to earth: he “emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness.” This sounds as if Jesus was a heavenly being who only appeared to be human. God, according to Paul, sent Jesus to save the entire world.
Did Luke heal anyone in the Bible?
The New Testament mentions Luke briefly a few times, and the Pauline Epistle to the Colossians refers to him as a physician (from Greek for ‘one who heals ‘); thus he is thought to have been both a physician and a disciple of Paul. Luke the Evangelist.
Notable works Gospel of Luke and Acts
Was Peter at the Last Supper?
The film portrays Saint Peter (Alosio as the younger and Loggia as the elder) reflecting on his time with Jesus (Marchiano) and his fellow Apostles during his final imprisonment in Rome at the Mamertine Prison.
Apostle Peter and the Last Supper
Budget $750,000
You might be interested: How Do You Get To The Apostle Islands?
Who baptized Paul?
New Testament narrative of Ananias In Paul’s speech in Acts 22, he describes Ananias as “a devout man according to the law, having a good report of all the Jews” that dwelt in Damascus (Acts 22:12).
| 3,017 |
First, as much as I am invested in my online work, either through blogging or social networking, nothing compares to real-life, skin and sweat, handshakes and hugs interaction. You can imagine all you want about how great it would feel to dance, but that isn’t the same as dancing.
And, I love to dance.
Pantheacon, my first large Pagan gathering, provided me with the opportunity to embody my spiritual practice, and to present myself as a spiritual and religious person. I wore my little “Druid” nameplate, a keepsake of Uncle Isaac, I introduced myself proudly to everyone I met, and I became at different moments a student, an inquisitor, a historian and a kid in a candy store. I had permission to engage in dialogue about complicated, esoteric ideas with a number of great thinkers, not because that permission was explicitly given to me by someone else, but because I gave it to myself. It was kind of self-liberation. I highly recommend it.
Second, I’ve learned that I have an easier time investing in my religious practice if I’m given — or, again, if I give myself — a more active role. If I’m left to watch from the sidelines I may be more inclined to criticize, analyze, and generally keep a distance between me and what’s actually going on. Skills of observation are useful to a writer, but observation doesn’t always trump experience. Sometimes it’s better to get your hands dirty.
As I wrote about in my last post, I’ve been consistent in approaching my altar each morning for the better part of the last month. No matter how groggy I feel, I perform a short ceremony to honor Those who I honor, and then I start my day. I do what’s worked for me before, and open myself to whatever happens. Sometimes I improvise, and other times I follow my simple liturgy. Regardless of what transpires, the regularity of the ritual is proving to be very nourishing.
With my daily ritual firmly in place, I’ve decided to return to the Dedicant Path, an ADF study program which seeks to develop one’s own personal religion (Neopagan Druidism), while deepening one’s knowledge about the Indo-European cultures of antiquity. I feel that ADF has something very valuable to offer me, and this was confirmed by my experience in ritual and in fellowship with the ADF members I met at Pantheacon.
I’ve also decided to return to University and seek a degree in religious studies. This decision requires much more planning and preparation, and it probably won’t come to pass for another 12 or 18 months. But, I feel that if I’m going to take myself seriously as a writer on religious matters, not to mention if I’m going to ask anyone else to do the same, I have to put in the work.
When I commented on my Facebook page about looking into applying to Marylhurst University for further study, an ADF Druid who I met in San Jose replied,
“Do it, brother. You were called to lead.”
If he’s right, then I have a lot of work to do. And, if he’s right, I have a lot thinking to do about what it means to be a leader.
There have been great discussions on blogs and in podcasts about Pagan leadership, and I’d like to continue that dialogue here at Bishop in the Grove. My readership is so diverse, and so willing to engage in deep thinking about practice, tradition, philosophy, and belief, that it would be foolish of me not to ask you what you think about leadership.
What does effective religious leadership look like to you? Do you expect leaders to be well-educated? Charismatic? Inspirational? Instructive?
When you think about leadership in the Pagan community, where do you think we’ve gotten it right, and where do we have room for improvement?
Please, lend me your insights into what leadership means. And then, if you know someone who might have a valuable perspective on this subject, pass along this post.
42 Responses to What do we want from our Pagan leaders?
February 27, 2012 at 12:33 pm
In answer to your title, I am spending a year on the road meeting with local Pagan communities attempting to answer this very question. So far the evidence seems that both the internet and festival communities are out of touch with these local communities. Much more information is needed before I feel I have real answers. I will keep you posted
Ameth Jera says:
February 27, 2012 at 1:08 pm
I agree with your assessment of the internet and festival communities. Life in my home group is very different than those other places-the drama is at a minimum, our priorities are different. It’s less of a party ( not meant as a criticism). We share our joys and sorrows and are tactile. The mindset is just different. We are tribal because we are closely woven and people ( even the difficult ones) are not disposable. I do think the internet has brought us together, but it also has made us hard on one another because we don’t experience the other persons life and back story. It’s too easy to become righteous and intolerant. Festival interaction is brief and superficial for the most part, although pleasant. I believe we need more genuine, authentic contact to preserve our community in a healthy way.
Teo Bishop says:
February 27, 2012 at 3:57 pm
“I do think the internet has brought us together, but it also has made us hard on one another because we don’t experience the other person’s life and back story.”
What a brilliant observation, Ameth. I agree with this. You can see evidence of this by the way that harsh statements have been flung about around events at this most recent Pantheacon.
My experience of Pantheacon (not really a festival) was anything but superficial, and I think that had to do with my own investment in the experience. I can see how it might be, though, if you were only interested in the superficial aspects of social interaction. This idea of a discord between internet/festival community and local, real-time communities is fascinating to me. There’s certainly more to be written there.
March 2, 2012 at 4:31 pm
I noticed a change in language here:
Ameth Jera wrote:
“Festival interaction is brief and superficial for the most part”
Teo Bishop replied:
“My experience of Pantheacon […] was anything but superficial”
Notice that…the word interaction was replaced with the word experience. I think that there is something key here. Interaction is not the same as experience. We can–and do–have deeply transformative experiences at events. But human interactions require shared history to get to the depths.
No matter how inspiring and emotional a discussion I have with someone at an event, that simply can not compare with the shared experience of my coven watching our priestess and friend gradually fade away over the course of a few years. It’s been several years, but I still remember who was in the room when we washed her body. I still remember who came over and made dinner for her widower and the rest of us. Compared to that, any interaction I have with someone at an event is superficial.
Teo Bishop says:
February 27, 2012 at 3:52 pm
I would very much like that, Peter. Please do keep me posted so that our dialogue might be informed by your experiences.
Thank you for helping to fascinate this conversation.
Blessings.
Anonymous says:
February 27, 2012 at 12:44 pm
Good on you for taking these steps – as we’ve been talking about for the past few weeks, “Doing” is much more important than merely “talking”.
Two things you should remember on being a good leader: 1. Remember to listen. Not just to your students, but also to yourself and to Nature. And 2. Don’t forget to laugh, especially at yourself, from time to time. Life is far too important to take seriously.
Teo Bishop says:
February 27, 2012 at 3:50 pm
Great advice, Eran. I’ll try to keep it in mind…especially that last part.
Tell me – do you feel that you are in any kind of leadership role, either in your personal or professional life, or in a religious community? I wonder if you have personal experience that led you these insights.
Anonymous says:
February 28, 2012 at 8:20 am
Not in a while – I used to run a small circle, but we parted ways amiably as it no longer met our needs. Right now most of my leadership experience comes from being the father of two very smart, spirited, and feisty daughters (grin).
February 28, 2012 at 2:18 pm
I think that many pagans forget it is not just a religion per say but a way of life and forget that being a parent, how we parent and teaching our children is the MOST important part of our leading and being as such,,pagan.
February 27, 2012 at 12:44 pm
I am a leader of my Own coven and often wonder what the expectations of others are for me. I struggle with the belief that I am going to juggle everything that revolves in my world and meet the needs of everyone, as well as my own. I have learned that My needs have to come first or everything false short. I try to be loyal to my cause, charismatic, kind,nonjudgmental and loving. Much as a parent would try to be. Many a time I feel the need to be firm and authoritative to be supportive to the needs of those who come to me for guidance. Not as one Telling someone the way to think as much as HOW to think and come to a Choice best suited for there OWN life.
Teo Bishop says:
February 27, 2012 at 3:48 pm
Thank you for your comment, Rev. Jenielynn. I appreciate you being a part of the BitG dialogue.
I like what you say about teaching people how to think rather than what to think. This is, in a way, what I think more schooling could help me with, at least in practice.
I’m curious – have you ever posed this question to the members of your coven? Is this something that you could be in conversation about? I don’t know anything about your group dynamic, but do you think discussing this might help clarify expectations?
February 28, 2012 at 2:12 pm
The dynamic of the C.O.L is much like a family. We have sisters and brothers and mothers and fathers. We have ex’s , currents and singles of all age groups in the coven. Sometimes we get mad at each other but we all talk it out, give space or let it go and then carry on as friends and family. We go with the flow and respect each other.
We are working On a intentional farming community . We have many
meeting to discuss any issues and I have never asked them what A
leaders job might look like but I would
enjoy hearing there response if I asked this question. They come to me
for organizing rituals, ceremonies, holidays. We work together for the
solutions of issues and conflicts to insure unity. I listen a lot and
ask as many questions of them as they do me.
I am am leader and teacher but a student a well. I make sure I let
others know what they have taught me and empower them to help eachother
and self.
February 27, 2012 at 12:52 pm
It was great meeting you at Panthea Con and learning about this blog. I would personally love to see more models of working together where everyone does what they do best and we split the rest. Some of us are great ritual leaders- charismatic, charming, comforting and inspirational. Some of us are great behind the scenes leaders- making spreadsheets, keeping to-do list,endless energy,able to save the day last minute etc. I could go on all day, there are plenty aspects of leadership and I prefer when everyone is focusing on what they enjoy and do best. It has been experience that it leads to a higher quality of overall community and less burn out. That said I do enjoy cross training and mentoring under those who have the skills I don’t naturally come by. I think learning and growing are important as well.
I guess my bottom line is I would like to get away from cookie cutter ideas of what clergy is or should be.
I will post this blog post to the Sisterhood Of Avalon and see what they think. I am curious now as well.
Teo Bishop says:
February 27, 2012 at 4:04 pm
It was great to meet you as well, and thank you for sharing your perspective here. I’m happy that you’ve joined the conversation.
Your comment echoes that of a few other commenters, mainly in expressing a kind of egalitarian spirit to Pagan leadership. Your idea about cross training and mentorship seems like brilliant one. What a great way to enrich the communities we build.
I’d love to know what ideas come up when you share the post with the Sisterhood Of Avalon!
February 27, 2012 at 1:31 pm
Any leader has to begin with a vision. Who are you going to lead? Where are you going to lead them? Who and what do you serve?
A leader has to articulate his vision. If you keep it to yourself, you aren’t leading anyone.
A leader has to implement her vision. Talk is cheap – how are we going to do the work necessary to make the vision a reality?
The first generation of Pagan leaders were charismatics. The second generation were authors. The third generations – that’s this generation – are bloggers and podcasters and musicians and coven leaders and community organizers. They are leading by doing and by inspiring others with their work.
A word on your educational plans. If you want to be a religious scholar – a professional student of religion – then by all means pursue a degree in religious studies. But if you want to be a Pagan leader, there are much better uses of your time and money.
Teo Bishop says:
February 27, 2012 at 3:34 pm
What valuable questions, John. Thank you for posting those here. I’m sure I’m prepared to answer any of them just yet, but I will meditate on them. I think answering them will be a bit of discernment process. The answers will, I think, be revealed in the doing.
As for your last statement about pursuing a degree in religious studies, I wonder if you might unpack that a little further. What is informing your opinion? And, what do you think would be better uses of my time and money?
February 27, 2012 at 6:20 pm
At one point I looked into a Religious Studies program – it’s not what I thought it was. Religious scholars aren’t experts in doing religion – they’re experts in documenting religion and analyzing religion. Most of them – including the few Pagans in the field – take a very academic approach to religion. That’s not what I want to do. That’s not what I’m called to do.
If you are, by all means go for it – the world could use a few more Pagan religious scholars. But if your calling is to become an expert (or at least, highly qualified and experienced) in doing religion, then I think your ADF Dedicant program is the best place to start, combined with a lot of hands-on work in a Grove. If you want more, or something more formal, then look into seminary – either Cherry Hill, or one of the liberal Christian institutions where you can learn religious history (albeit not much of the history you’re interested in), leadership, and pastoral care.
Teo Bishop says:
February 28, 2012 at 8:38 am
Thank you for the clarification, John.
I do not feel called to become a Pagan religious scholar, and I do feel that the doing of religion is something I am called to do. I would love to get formal training, either through Cherry Hill or a liberal Christian institution, but first I need to get my Bachelors Degree. I’ve managed to build a nice life for myself without one up until this point, but if I’m going to pursue more formal study in the form of a Masters of Divinity, I need to get the basics taken care of.
Thus, a Bachelors in Religious Studies. It’s just a starting point. I think pairing that up with continued work in the DP, and eventually more work in group, would be a good thing.
February 28, 2012 at 11:03 am
That makes sense, Teo. Thanks for explaining, and good luck!
February 28, 2012 at 2:42 pm
There are also a number of interfaith seminaries. One of the folks in my church is a graduate of one, I can ping her for details, if you’d like.
Teo Bishop says:
February 29, 2012 at 11:24 am
I would love that, Áine.
March 6, 2012 at 1:01 pm
Only just saw your reply, Teo… I’ll be seeing her at Ostara, I’ll ask then and reply back here.
Teo Bishop says:
March 6, 2012 at 9:17 pm
Thank you so much.
March 1, 2012 at 7:52 pm
For what it’s worth, getting my BA in Religious Studies was one of the most profound catalysts for self-growth in my life. If you are naturally inclined to study the wonders of all the various expressions of love for the Divine (however you understand it), even an academic degree in religious studies can break open amazing parts of you that you hadn’t realized were there. Yes, it does teach you a HUGE degree of objectivity, but for me, that wasn’t a bad thing. It might not be for you, either. Who knows.
Teo Bishop says:
March 2, 2012 at 9:49 am
Thank you, Christy, for sharing your perspective. I’m glad to know that getting your BA in Religious Studies was so meaningful to you, as I hope it will be for me as well.
I’m curious — how did your newfound objectivity aid you after you completed your degree? Does it feel like a strength now?
March 1, 2012 at 12:51 am
It’s definitely been my experience that there’s a general lack of understanding by the general public about what Religious Studies is all about. When I was in school and majoring in Religious Studies, I used to dread being asked what my major was because I knew that when I answered, ‘Religious Studies’ they were hearing things like ‘Seminary’ or ‘Theology’, usually with the assumption that I was preparing to become a Christian minister/ priest etc. I found it awkward to explain to people (this being in the South) that not only was I not studying Christianity but I was studying religion from a non-theological/ academic perspective.
As much as I love the field of Religious Studies and as important I think it is to providing an understanding of Religion, on a personal level, I have to say that in some ways my personal religious practice and spirituality have suffered because of it. I was trained perhaps too well to try to be objective and step back from the subject matter that it made it a struggle to connect emotionally to my spiritual practice. One of the things that drew me away from Judaism to Paganism was that my years of studying Judaism in an academic setting had left me only able to connect to Judaism in that dry, objective fashion and I struggled to move beyond that.
Teo Bishop says:
March 2, 2012 at 9:32 am
Thank you for offering your perspective, Kauko. I hope that you’ve managed to rekindle the fire in your heart through your engagement with Paganism.
I’m curious – at what university did you study?
February 27, 2012 at 1:43 pm
I look for leaders who will work side-by-side with me to show me how to do the Work to which I’ve been called. Someone who will meet me where I am and give me things to consider for my growth. I need my leaders to be educated, well-rounded people who can share their knowledge (gained in whatever manner) in a way that relates to life and living it. I need my leaders to impart their knowledge or wisdom in an attitude of sharing, rather than telling. Don’t tell me “I think, in this situation, you should fwah fwah fwah…” Tell me, instead, “When I had a situation like that, here’s what I did. Here’s how it worked out for me in the end. If I had it to do over, in hindsight, I’d do it like this…” Or if they haven’t done what I’m asking them about, they’ll explore it with me or introduce me to someone who has.
I think that leaders know that leadership is not a zero-sum game. They know that all of us (even them) have something to learn, and all of us (even them) have something to teach. Therefore, another leader doesn’t lessen the “amount of leadership” there is to go around. Leaders empower others to lead. Leaders seek out leaders and mentors of their own. Beyond all of that, though… probably the biggest thing I need from a leader is authenticity. I don’t need perfection and someone who sets themselves apart or above, someone who presents a front of perfection is someone I’m not going to be able to follow. It feels plastic, fake, unnatural. I need my leaders to know that it’s okay to have a bad day. If I never see them having a bad day, I start to feel like I’m not “allowed” to have one either, or that I’m somehow lesser when I do. That I can’t myself be a leader until I’ve reached the stage of perfection (or obfuscation) that I never have (or appear to have) a bad day. No matter how well-known or popular a leader you are, you’re also still human and showing that authentic face goes so much further toward helping people realise they they can be leaders, too, than most anything else you can do.
I think that what Peter Loeb had to say about community organising and activism in _Soul of a Citizen_ really speaks to what I seek in leaders and what I seek to emulate in my own leadership — portraying perfection induces paralysis, the whole “perfection is the enemy of good” aphorism. I look for leaders who understand that you don’t have to wait until you have All The Knowledge before you can undertake a project, for instance, or that it’s okay to say, “actually, I don’t know, but I’d love to look for the answer with you!” He talks a lot about how we don’t get the history of the years of work and education and training that so many historical figures we look at today underwent in order to reach the point where they could take those historic actions… to write a treatise against tyranny, to sue the Catholic Church, or for the right to be a prison chaplain. I think that teaching the fact that leaders are created through years of trial and training, rather than springing fully formed from the Earth is a huge part of what leadership is about.
Teo Bishop says:
February 27, 2012 at 3:29 pm
Thank you for the spirited comment, Áine. It seems clear that you’ve had experiences with leaders of one sort or another that color your opinion about what “good leadership” looks like.
Your comment seems to be in line with Yesherabbit’s comment (see above), as it encourages a humble spirit of co-creation and participation from our leaders. I also love the idea that you don’t have to wait until you’re All Knowing to undertake a project. That really resonates with where I am at this point.
I always appreciate your feedback, Áine. I’m glad you took the time to comment about this.
February 28, 2012 at 4:46 pm
You’re welcome, Teo. It’s always a pleasure to read your posts and I love how welcoming you are. You do an excellent job of fostering discussion, even with people who vehemently disagree with you. Even when I have nothing to add to the topic, it is a joy to participate on your blog, thank you for that.
I will point out, my commentary above does not come solely from (and in reaction to) my experience with other leaders. It’s also what I strive toward with my own leadership, based on classes, workshops, weekend intensives, reading and my own discoveries of what works for me.
Interesting thing about leadership… I find that leadership skills translate pretty well across focus areas. Sure, there are specific things you need for any particular area in which you want to lead, but the general skills transcend any particular community. I learned a lot about leadership when I went through management training with PIRG, for example, especially how to give feedback and how to empower others. My technical management training and experience has helped me learn how to teach and support self-directed education. My training in meeting facilitation and communication, as well as reading up on group power dynamics has also been of great help.
To circle back round to your direct questions… I expect leaders to be at least moderately educated in the subject area, but that can be made up for with a solid ability to network and empower. Charisma rarely hurts, but it’s not *that* high on my priority list. Inspirational? Erm, maybe? It *really* depends on how you define “inspirational”. I look to leaders I find inspiring, but they’re rarely /trying to inspire/, if that makes any sense? Instructive is good, but, as with education, that can be made up for with solid networking.
Where do I think we, as a community, have gotten leadership right? We’re pretty good about the “boots on the ground” thing, and leading where you are. Most leaders I’ve interacted with are pretty good about sharing knowledge and how to do things. Where do I think we could improve? A lot of us seem to get into this notion that any given “niche” can have only one person filling it. As if leadership, respect, and/or acclaim in a given focus area is a zero-sum game and it’s stepping on someone’s toes to be called to the same sort of work as they are. I think this may be a hold-over from second-wave Wicca and all that craziness, maybe tied up with a need to re-read the power dynamics section of _Spiral Dance_. I do worry that it tends to keep people from stepping up to do the work, or being a leader in that area where they are.
Yesherabbit says:
February 27, 2012 at 1:44 pm
Well, naturally, we all want our pagan leaders to be perfect. Then we are intimidated by their perfection, and so we want them to be flawed like us. Naturally!
When we just choose to be our fullest selves, to make a reverent offering of our hearts and wisdom, in a spirit of generosity without presumption, it becomes less important who the leaders and/or students are, and instead we are all engaged in a fascinating and fluid dynamic of co-evolution, with this one taking the helm in her area of skill, that one holding the center when he feels passionate.
I appreciate the transparency of your writings, and I think you are already doing a great job leading your part. I look forward to continued evolution together.
Yeshe Rabbit
Teo Bishop says:
February 27, 2012 at 3:25 pm
Thank you for your kind words. I appreciate the support, and I love the spirit of your comment, Yesherabbit. Thank you for joining in this conversation.
Your message is empowering, and speaks to a egalitarian model that would seem to resonate well in the Pagan community. Have you found this approach to be successful in your communal practice? Do you feel that there are specific skills that equip someone to facilitate this kind of joint-work, or co-creation?
Cat C-B says:
February 27, 2012 at 2:58 pm
One thing I’ve noticed, over the years, is how many of my friends are people who lead, teach, or create important resources for their spiritual communities. And all of these people whom I love share the important trait of being able to put the Work ahead of themselves as needed.
I think that’s one of the basic yardsticks of spiritual maturity: can what you offer to others be about what’s needed rather than all about self-promotion? Or self-effacement, or self-absorption, or deprivation, or justification, or any of the other funky little trips we can run that get between what we have to offer and actually offering it, freely and lovingly, as we’re called to do?
March 2, 2012 at 4:46 pm
When I was a Quaker, I learned so much from the tradition of standing aside. The one time I stood in the way of reporting a unity I didn’t think we had (it wasn’t even a decision or in Meeting for Business)–I shook for twenty minutes afterward. I realized that standing in the way of sacred consensus was to state to the room that I was able to bring through insight from the Divine that no one else present was able to do. While I’ve resigned my membership in the Society of Friends, the lessons I learned will always shape my life. I don’t do group decision-making perfectly, but I do it so much better than I would have without that learning.
Yes, but what do we NEED from our Pagan leaders? | Bishop In The Grove says:
February 28, 2012 at 10:46 am
[…] A Space For Dialogue Beneath The Sacred Oaks Skip to contentHomeAboutContact TeoPost Archives← What do we want from our Pagan leaders?Yes, but what do we NEED from our Pagan leaders? Posted on February 28, 2012 by Teo BishopThe […]
Kilmrnock says:
February 28, 2012 at 1:20 pm
I personaly tend to agree w/ what others here , and what you Teo have stated . A good leader is quite knowledgable in their given path , but also not super controling or domineering . A good leader is also a good teacher , one that can help guild a student or group to reach thier full capability or potential.These people also need to be very understanding of the groups and individuals short comings and strenths , to help them better themselves , provide the challenges they need .Unfortunatly many of us here, myself included , have had to deal w/ bad leadership. Totalitarian , power/ control happy leadership can and will usualy become disasterous . A good leader shows non of these traits and is mentaly stabile . A vision , taken from experience and understanding of a given path is also a good trait for a leader to have , but also equalitarian policy is helpful as well . From my experience a group that works from within has better longevity than those that work from the top down .Such leadership makes the members feel like they are a part of and responcible for the group and its members .Good leadership in my opinion more helps steer a group[ keeps it on the right path ] more than control it . Kilm
February 28, 2012 at 5:59 pm
But I would also like to add this:
I find myself in an interesting place in the leadership chain of command. I think that this gives me a somewhat unique perspective. Overall, what I want is an openess to communication. I want those who come to me seeking leadership to know that I am here for them, that I care for them, and that they are important to me. I communicate this to them by listening, by being their for them when they need or want me to be, and trying to help them along the path to the best of my ability.
On the other hand there are people who lead me and the people under me. I want the same things that the people I lead want. But I also want a little more I think. I want them to be open to talking about new ideas and innovation and sharing their thoughts and feelings with me on things.
Teo Bishop says:
March 2, 2012 at 9:13 am
Thank you for this comment, Adrian, and for your extensive article at Agora. I appreciate that you’ve put so much thought into this subject. As you pointed out, this is a subject that has been floating just below the surface for decades.
I’m curious about your personal tradition — is there a literal chain of command, or where you speaking figuratively? As a *mostly* solitary Druid I don’t have a great deal of experience in ongoing group dynamics, so I’m interested to learn about what others are experiencing. Anything you’d be willing to share would be much appreciated.
Blessings to you.
March 13, 2012 at 9:07 pm
I would be happy to share. I was raised in and am a current member of the Unicorn Tradition (www.unicorntrad.org) . In our tradition there are six levels of initiation. Seeker > Neophyte > Novice (1st degree)> Apprentice (2nd degree)> Priest(ess) (3rd Degree) > Elder. I am an Apprentice. You can read more about the level’s here at Blue Lotus Grove’s Website ( http://bluelotusgrove.elementforge.com/about-2/classes/) who is a member of the Unicorn Tradition (and who I am a member of)
March 2, 2012 at 4:49 pm
I think one of the greatest gifts of a three degree system is that it puts people in that middle zone while they are learning how to lead. It helps us learn that we are always accountable in both directions.
March 15, 2012 at 11:39 am
I expect our leaders to not only be polymaths but to also to be compassionate pastoral counselors and gifted teachers. However, in the Neopagan community, we are often inundated with a plethora of self-declared leaders. Many of whom do not possess the requisite characteristics to lead well. The failure of these individuals to effectively direct and prepare their members may often lead to burnout, drama, and Witch wars.
The ethical thing to do, if you wish to be a leader, is to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to provide a welcoming and safe spiritual home for your members. If you are lacking in a particular area, you must be mature enough to recognize it, compensate for it or balance it out somehow, and attempt to rectify your shortcomings by educating yourself. If a leader is unwilling to look at their own work critically and evaluate their own efforts, then they are no one I’d want to follow.
Looking a little closer at Pagan Leaders, Clergy, and Teachers says:
May 18, 2012 at 8:43 am
[…] people. There might be a parallel worth exploring.We had a discussion about the difference between what we want from Pagan leaders and what we need from Pagan leaders a few months back. These questions continue to be relevant as […]
| 33,353 |
Reduce communication lag by ensuring teammates from different sides of the world have access to the information that they need
Centralize and share internal knowledge efficiently with our built-in workflows and powerful integrations
Customer Support Teams
Pricing
Featured
HR & Recruiting
HR & Recruiting
OKR examples to help your team set measurable goals
When it comes to setting organizational goals, KPIs (key performance indicators) usually come to mind. OKR (Objectives & Key Results) are a less-used term, yet highly effective approach to defining measurable goals and tracking outcomes. This methodology is generally attributed to Andy Grove who introduced the concept during his tenure at Intel, which was subsequently picked up by Google in 1999.
What is OKR?
OKRs, or Objectives & Key Results, is a tool for building specific and measurable goals, or objectives, in order to successfully communicate, monitor and achieve the desired outcomes. This framework is utilized by many high-achieving tech companies, such as Google, LinkedIn and Intel.
OKRs, as the name suggests, consists of two main aspects. Objectives are short but specific definitions of what the company wishes to achieve within a period of time. Depending on the company, there could typically be around three objectives per quarter. It essentially dictates the direction and resources that the organization should take in order to achieve these targets.
Key Results are an indicator of the progress or success of an objective. Each objective generally has three to five key results. These have to be measurable and clear so that companies will have a idea of whether or not they have achieved a specific goal.
According to John Doerr, who worked with Andy Grove at Intel, the way to structure OKR is by using the formula:
I will (Objective) as measured by (set of Key Results).
Difference between OKR and KPI
In the business environment, a more commonly-heard term when it comes to goal setting is KPI. Key Performance Indicators are essentially a type of quantifiable performance measurement that tracks the progress of a company in regards to a specific objective. Revenue per month or new customers acquired are some popular business metrics that enterprises keep track of using KPIs. These KPIs are defined by a period of time, which could be hourly, daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly or yearly. The main objective of having KPIs is to keep an eye on past performance in order to make data-driven decisions and predictions about future activities and performance.
On the other hand, OKRs are a much broader, strategic goal-setting framework to define the goals of the organization moving forward. This sets a precedent for areas of focus, company direction and business activities that work together to achieve the desired outcome. In other words, OKRs help to define what KPIs are worth looking at. For instance, an organization could set an objective to increase their target audience by incorporating more product offerings. Thus, they will look at key results like their number of new products and the go-to market date. KPIs, such as revenue growth or customer engagement, can be used to support the project.
What are the Benefits of Using an OKR Template
The first step to utilizing the OKR framework is often one of the most challenging parts. It’s crucial to note that the objective will set the direction for all business activities in that quarter. This can be a stressful step for leaders and teams, which is why it can be helpful to use an OKR Template.
Here are some benefits of using an OKR Template.
Sets a level of consistency
Setting OKRs is a regular activity that happens every quarter. Using a template will help to ensure that there is a standard quality and format that everyone adheres to when writing OKRs, so that it does not differ from employee to employee. By keeping things the same throughout, new hires will also be able to quickly familiarize themselves with the procedure.
Mulling over what goes into an OKR framework can be time-consuming. By having a pre-written OKR document, the process is made simple and straightforward. All that needs to be done is to fill in the blanks on the OKR document. This can also help to cut down on unnecessary details or the risk of missing crucial components.
Ensures easy understanding and readability
An OKR template is written in a clear and definitive way, to provide clarity to the reader. Having a confusing and hard-to-comprehend framework can lead to confusion and even mistakes, which are detrimental to hitting targets. On the OKR template, it should be clearly outlined what the objective is, along with three key results.
Steer employees in the right direction
It is vital to business success that all stakeholders are aligned on the same objectives. An OKR template creates focus on a single priority (or multiple, depending on the organization) by communicating the objectives for the quarter. This way, everyone who has access to the OKR template can be pointed in the right direction.
Setting OKRs is an enterprise-wide strategy, so it is important to be as detailed and comprehensive as possible. We’ve put together a sample OKR template (see the top of this article) for easy and specific goal-setting. We also included some examples to help you get started. But do note that they’re not set in stone, and can be modified based on business strategy and goals!
How to Score OKRs
Since OKRs are built on a fundamental concept of measurable goals, it is important to know how to score OKRs. More specifically, you have to know what counts as success for Key Results. There are a few ways to score OKRs. Originally, the Andy Grove method would just rely on a simple yes/no as a way to track progress. For instance, based on the template above, it would say:
Reduce monthly churn rate by 5%? Yes.
Doerr, however, further developed the OKR scoring method at Google which led to its proliferation, using a 0 to 1.0 scale. This is a more advanced scoring scale, which measures results by using:
0.0 to 0.3: Failure to make progress
0.4 to 0.6: Some progress, but short of completion
0.7 to 1.0: Successfully completed
This method, however, may not take into account intangible achievements. For instance, the objective to increase revenue may have fallen into the 0.4 to 0.6 (yellow) range, but one of these leads may be a large spender who generated profits that were worth over fifty clients. In a way, the objective to hit sales targets was increased but not in a way that was necessarily expected.
Tips and Best Practices for Writing OKRs
For the OKR framework to actually work, the objectives have to be effective. One way to achieve this is by using SMART goals. SMART goals have to be:
Specific: well-defined, using clear and concise language
Measurable: able to be tracked using key results and in a quantifiable manner in order to communicate progress
Achievable: the goal must be able to materialize through specific people and activities
Realistic/Relevant: must be relevant and closely aligned to the company objectives
Applying the SMART concepts to your objective setting will help you create feasible and attainable goals that leave no room for interpretation. It can be helpful to ask questions like: what will help the company vision? What is the goal and how can we get there?
As much as it helps to be ambitious and detailed, a long-winded OKR framework will only set out to confuse the reader. You don’t want your organization to be spread out over multiple objectives and burnt out by the end of the quarter. The general rule of thumb is to have one company-wide objective and one for each team, so that everyone has a priority to work towards. Then, assign two to three key results to each objective.
Highly-effective business tools are only as useful as the people who use it. Promoting a growth mindset among teams will help them be closely aligned to OKR concepts and use it as a motivation for their work. By encouraging employees to take on a goal-driven work ethic, they can constantly find ways and new ideas to make the company better.
Companies which encourage their employees to actively contribute and participate in OKRs can benefit from the flow of knowledge and different perspectives. When employees are given a say in what the company’s objectives are, they will in turn want to do better to achieve the key results and make meaningful contributions. Using a company-wide knowledge management platform like Kipwise can make it easier for teams to collaborate on OKRs.
| 9,080 |
On a recent visit with my grown children I had to do some very deep breathing one night to just take in how lucky I am.
Nov. 4, 2016 6:00 p.m.
In our busy lives, planning, preparing, doing and bustling, the simple pleasure of just receiving all that we have to be grateful for gets forgotten.
I took several days last week to visit my children and nestle in with my growing first grandchild expected in March.
Sharing in the joy of this beautiful miracle with my son and his partner as they begin their road to parenthood could not have been more precious.
As I took in the ultrasound pictures of this little being that will be coming into my life in another 19 weeks or so, I was astounded at the sheer magnitude of the love I already felt for this new life. Wow, I thought, my baby is having a baby!
As I moved through the rest of my week away, sharing time with my sister as she goes through a big transition in her life, attending a wonderful homecare conference that gave me a chance to just chat with many other passionate people about what I love to do, enjoying a dinner with my other son and his girl after being treated to an afternoon getting pedicures and drinking coffee, I had to do some very deep breathing one night to just take in how lucky I am.
In the turmoil that can often be present in our lives there is always the one constant of love that is right there in front of you if you let yourself take it in.
There are only these sweet moments fleeting by and it is a choice to stop and embrace them fully. Have you done it lately? I think we all forget sometimes that life is a gift that can be taken away in a flash, when we least expect it.
Many nights I listen to podcasts by Tara Brach (tarabrach.com), a psychologist, author and speaker who offers great insight into the need to develop our consciousness collectively, raising our awareness of our patterns of behavior and instinctual inclination to worry, fret, disapprove, judge and separate ourselves, especially when we are under stress.
This is when we also put up resistance to join with others and to let ourselves truly receive and feel gratitude for what we have. Have a listen to some of her tapes if you wish to reconnect with your own heart and what is truly important.
Another helpful way to come back to reconnect with yourself when life is getting out of balance, is to do what is called a Loving-Kindness Meditation.
This practice is the softening of the mind and heart to open to a deeper level of the feeling of kindness and of love.
Loving kindness is not a sentimental feeling of goodwill, not an obligation, but comes from a place of selflessness.
It can be a breaking down of barriers that we may feel inwardly towards ourselves, and then those that we may feel towards another.
In a relaxed posture, breathing in and out from the heart centre, begin by allowing this kind feeling to generate towards yourself.
Feel any areas of mental blockage or numbness, self-judgment and take your breath right into them.
Then drop beneath this place to where you want strength and health and safety for yourself. Continue with full breaths in and out and then begin to say or think the following phrases:
May I be free from inner and outer harm and danger.
May I be safe and protected.
May I be free of mental suffering or distress.
May I be happy.
May I be free of physical pain and suffering.
May I be healthy and strong.
May I be able to live in this world happily, peacefully, joyfully and with ease.
Continue to breath fully in and out. Then move to a person that invites the feeling of unconditional loving kindness.
They may be an elder in your life, a parent or grandparent that requires little effort to feel respect and adoration for. Repeat the same above phrases for this person: “May he/she be safe and protected…….” Now move to a neutral person for whom you feel neither strong like nor dislike.
As you repeat the phrases, allow yourself to feel loving care for their welfare. Lastly, move to someone you have difficulty doing this for.
If needed, you can start the phrases by saying, “To the best of my ability, I wish that you be safe and protected…..”
Let the phrases spread throughout your whole body, mind, and heart.You can complete this meditation by visualizing a felt sense for all beings by saying the traditional phrase of: May all living beings be safe, happy, healthy and live joyously.
Extend loving energy from your heart outward as you repeat the phrase several times.
One of the key components of developing conscious awareness is to realize that the judgments we have of others are usually what we are judging the most about ourselves. Poppycock, you say?
Yes, we project our own feelings of low self-worth often on the people closest to us. It is called projection.
| 4,818 |
Noragami is a fantastic anime. There is no doubt about that. However, naragami is a relatively short anime series, and we, as fans, were really dissatisfied as a result. But don’t worry, there are a number of anime that are set in similar scenarios, such as seeing ghosts and gods.
In this article, we have listed 11 anime like Noragami that will give you a similar feeling to what Noragami gave you.
Read Also:
10 Anime Where the MC is in a Game
Advertisement Continue To Read Below
Nanami Momozono aspires to live an ordinary high school life, just like any other high school student. Instead, she must deal with the reality that her father, a compulsive gambler, has acquired a slew of gambling debts in her name. Because she is unable to pay her rent, she is removed from her apartment by debt collectors and becomes homeless. Despite this sad turn of events, she has a kind heart.
Nanami encounters a strange man hanging from a tree because he is being chased by a dog while resting on a park seat collecting her thoughts. She discovers the man’s name is Mikage after rescuing him from the dog. When he learns about Nanami’s present circumstances, he offers her his house as a symbol of his thanks, a great illustration of how good acts are repaid.
The Demon Lord Satan attempts to conquer the realm of Ente Isla by annexing its four continents with the assistance of his demon generals Alciel, Lucifer, Malacoda, and Adramelech. After being faced by the hero Emilia and her allies, and after killing Malacoda and Adramelech, Satan and Alciel flee the world of Ente Isla through a portal to modern Tokyo, Japan.
However, because to the lack of magic in the modern world, both Satan and Alciel transform into shapes that resemble what they would seem like if they were human. To make ends meet, Satan works part-time at MgRonald’s, a fast food restaurant, while Alciel acts as his housekeeper.
One day, Satan, now known as Sadao Ma, encounters a girl who turns out to be Emilia in the shape of Emi Yusa. The plot then unfolds and digs into the personalities and moral ideals of each of the individuals. More Ente Isla personalities appear, and they, too, encounter new world challenges, often humorously.
Kosuke Mikado, a bookshop worker, has been able to see ghosts since he was a child, which frightens him. He encounters Rihito Hiyakawa, a brave exorcist with no social bounds, one day. Hiyakawa enters Mikado’s body and is able to see and expel spirits, so he asks him to be his assistant.
As the two collaborate, they discover that the mysterious occurrences are linked to a high school girl named Erika Hiura, who acts as a mercenary necromancer to lay curses on others. As Mikado and Hiyakawa investigate, Mikado becomes aware that Hiyakawa is concealing a secret.
Advertisement Continue To Read Below
Shigeo Kageyama is a typical middle school student who has earned the nickname “Mob” for his lack of presence. Despite his unassuming appearance, he is a powerful esper with great psychic strength. To avoid losing control of this power, he spends his life with an emotional shackle.
Mob works as an assistant to con-man Reigen Arataka, a self-proclaimed psychic, in order to learn how to manage his skills. Mob wishes to live a regular life like those around him, but a storm of problems follows him. With his suppressed emotions gradually building inside Mob, his strength threatens to exceed its limitations until he finally encounters other espers like the Claws.
Mirai Kakehashi is a young orphaned high school student who lives with his violent aunt and uncle following his parents’ deaths. Mirai thinks he can’t take it any longer and attempts suicide, but is saved by a Guardian Angel named Nasse, who also bestows Mirai with extraordinary abilities.
Mirai utilises the abilities she granted upon him to exact punishment on his aunt and uncle after discovering from Nasse that they were responsible for the deaths of his father and mother owing to their jealously and hate for them.
Staz Charlie Blood is a strong vampire that governs Demon World’s Eastern sector. Despite reports that he is a ferocious and ruthless monster, Staz is simply an otaku infatuated with Japanese culture who is utterly disinterested in human blood. Staz spends his days lounging about, delighting in anime, manga, and games, leaving the management of his domain to his subordinates.
Staz is pleased when Fuyumi Yanagi, a Japanese girl, unintentionally walks through a portal leading into the demon world. However, just as he begins to develop an unexpected affinity to her, his territory is attacked, resulting in Fuyumi’s tragic death. She transforms into a roaming ghost, and the heartbroken Staz resolves to resurrect her so that he might travel to the human realm, something he has long desired.
Advertisement Continue To Read Below
Takashi Natsume has had the ability to see souls for as long as he can remember, inherited from his grandmother Reiko Natsume. Since of this talent, he had a lonely childhood because youngsters his age thought he was strange. He’d also been passed down from one relative to the next. Reiko’s Book of Friends, a book holding the names of spirits she had coerced into obedience, was handed to her grandson upon her death.
The Book of Friends is a highly treasured item in the spirit realm, and ghosts – both good and bad – continually stalk Takashi as a result of it. Takashi spends his time breaking Reiko’s contracts and freeing the different spirits that come to him for assistance.
The plot takes place in Sakurada, a town where everyone has extraordinary skills. Kei Asai, a boy with eidetic memory, is the main character. Kei encounters Misora Haruki, a quiet, withdrawn girl who can reset the world to up to three days in the past, at the suggestion of Sumire Soma.
Because of his talent, Kei can recall the time Misora has reset, and Sumire advises that Kei become Haruki’s companion to help her utilise her skills for good, which leads to them becoming members of the Service Group—a club that completes duties assigned to them.
The Service Club subsequently becomes associated with the Administration Bureau, an organisation that monitors all special powers in Sakurada and organises events in Sakurada in accordance with their directions, using the ‘Witch’ as a tool.
Advertisement Continue To Read Below
Noblesse is the storey of a mighty noble – Cadis Etrama Di Raizel (referred to as Rai) – who has been sleeping for 820 years with no awareness of mankind’s progress and technological achievements. Rai wakes up in an abandoned building in South Korea at the opening of the web series and begins to adjust to contemporary life.
He attends a school, where he re-encounters his faithful servant Frankenstein. Rai enrols in high school with the assistance of Frankenstein and unwittingly befriends athletic adolescent Shinwoo, computer genius Ikhan, Shinwoo’s crush Yuna, and a few others. Noblesse follows the trio in their often dangerous adventures against a hidden organisation, all while learning about Rai’s history.
For weeks, the orphanage of Atsushi Nakajima has been afflicted by a supernatural tiger that only he appears to be aware of. The 18-year-old is abruptly booted out of the orphanage and left hungry, homeless, and roaming across the city after being suspected of being behind the unusual happenings.
Atsushi saves a somewhat strange man called Osamu Dazai from drowning while hungry on a riverside. Dazai, a wacky suicide enthusiast and supernatural detective, has been looking into the same tiger that has been harassing the boy.
They solve the riddle with Dazai’s companion Doppo Kunikida, but the outcome puts Atsushi in a problem. As strange occurrences occur, Atsushi is coerced into joining their firm of supernatural investigators, taking on bizarre cases that the police cannot handle, along with his numerous mysterious coworkers.
While Yuu Otosaka looks to be just another charming and brilliant teenager, he has a secret—he has the capacity to enter people’s brains and entirely control their bodies for five seconds at a time. Yuu has used this talent for years to achieve the greatest marks, allowing him to attend a renowned high school.
When the mysterious Nao Tomori discovers Yuu utilising his power, she compels him and his sister Ayumi into attending Hoshinoumi Academy, a school for children with supernatural powers. The school’s student council, lead by Nao, is entrusted with chasing down youths who misuse their powers in secret.
Yuu is compelled to join the student council, and together they confront tough obstacles that lead him closer to the stunning realisation that his own, seemingly insufficient skill may be more powerful than he ever anticipated.
| 9,323 |
Peter is a Founding Director of Workplace Innovation Europe CLG, a not-for-profit organisation created to help public and private sector organisations achieve enhanced performance and better working lives. He holds Visiting Professorships at Kingston University London and Mykolas Romeris University Vilnius.
Peter’s career has focused on building bridges between academic knowledge and practice. He co-created the concept of workplace innovation, now being adopted by companies and policymakers across Europe and beyond.
Peter has led successful innovation and change initiatives in private and public sector organisations. He has also worked closely with policymakers in several countries, and in the European Commission where he has been a consistent advocate for workplace innovation.
pdf
Published
Issue
Vol. 7 No. 1 (2022): General Issue - European Journal of Workplace Innovation
Section
Authors who publish with this journal agree to the following terms:
Authors retain copyright and grant the journal right of first publication with the work simultaneously licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution License that allows others to share the work with an acknowledgement of the work's authorship and initial publication in this journal.
Authors are able to enter into separate, additional contractual arrangements for the non-exclusive distribution of the journal's published version of the work (e.g., post it to an institutional repository or publish it in a book), with an acknowledgement of its initial publication in this journal.
Authors are permitted and encouraged to post their work online (e.g., in institutional repositories or on their website) prior to and during the submission process, as it can lead to productive exchanges, as well as earlier and greater citation of published work (See The Effect of Open Access).
| 1,858 |
MostBet is totally licensed, even though bookmakers are banned in India as a result of the corporate is registered abroad. Mostbet’s assist service works 24/7, and operators reply users’ questions virtually instantly. In the table you probably can see the fundamental particulars about us. In order to log into your account, you need to enter your username, which is your mail tackle or cellular phone quantity and password. You can even log into your account utilizing one of many offered social networks. If you don’t have an account, then you’ll endure the registration course of, which won’t take you prolonged.
Certainly like your website on-line nevertheless you must check the spelling on pretty numerous of your posts. Many of them are rife with spelling points and I in finding it very troublesome to tell the truth then once more I¡¦ll definitely come once more as soon as extra. The most important competitors within the life of each skilled table tennis participant is the Olympics. From other competitions it is value noting the World Cup, the World Tour, the Asian Games and the Asian Championship.
There is all kinds of how to get into dialog with Mostbet managers. E-mail, Telegram, WhatsApp, suggestions kind within the Contacts section of the app and the net site, customer care quantity – everything is for you. The support service works all day lengthy with out weekends and holidays. Intuitive navigation and concise design make the Mostbet website very promising amongst many different bookmakers.
You will be the first to know about the latest modifications in sports activities arenas and will be capable of use this data to put profitable bets. According to the Mostbet evaluate, the variety of offered games is consistently growing. These are primarily themed slots devoted to discovering journey or treasures. You can open any of them, set the bet dimension and begin spinning.
It offers a very broad line for this sport and a big selection of stay bets. It is handy to put bets through a cell application. What’s essentially the most appealing function of the numerous gaming-capable smartphones? Even on tiny displays, it gives a unbelievable gaming experience. Mostbet bookmaker has been operating within the sports activities betting market for less than 10 years.
Certainly, if you are able to hold a distance he would possibly miss you immensely from him for logical causes. It efficiently, you might need no concern of shedding his consideration anymore if you can do. Don’t drive your man to answr absolutely your SMS, for instance. He may be busy along with skilled works, analysis, driving, viewing motion pictures, or other day by day needed actions. Consider which he has additionally a life excluding you, so offer him the flexibleness to pay cash for you. Make certain he understands continually about their timings which might be suitable await your response till he gets free.
Thanks to this, everyone will be in a position to discover precisely these competitions which are interesting to them. Mostbet bookmaker began accepting bets in 2009, operating beneath a Curaçao license. The official website mostbet.com allows you to place online bets on sports activities events, esports, totalizer and casinos. The website has been translated into greater than 25 languages, including English. In addition, Mostbet provides its prospects with beneficiant bonuses and a large sports activities line.
Claim a Mostbet welcome bonus after registering your account and making a primary deposit. To participate, you should deposit your account during one week after registration. In case you make a primary deposit in the first 15 minutes after registration, the amount of the welcome bonus will improve up to 125%. Line – allows you to select a sporting occasion and place a wager earlier than it starts. The LIVE part consists of matches that have already begun, and you cannot only make fast bets, but in addition watch broadcasts.
If for some reason the consumer can’t discover the appliance within the retailer on his own, the official web site of the bookmaker is always ready to assist him. On the Mobile Apps web page, click on on Upload to the App Store. The Mostbet program for a smartphone with the iOS operating system could be downloaded from the App Store. In the search for a store, you simply want to put in writing the name of the bookmaker. Mostbet reside video games will amaze you with both their graphics and high possibilities of successful. To win right here, you want three or extra equivalent symbols in a single line.
According to the Mostbet review, most games presented on the office have a reasonably good RTP fee. This implies that it’s quite attainable to earn money on them. But for this you will need to pay close attention to video games. The Mostbet loyalty program supplies a possibility to obtain free bets for bonus factors. Usually they’re given for the user’s activity on the offered platform. You just have to regularly place bets, and for this the corporate will reward you with points.
The realism and dynamism of all processes will let you really feel the excitement and joy of a real casino. You can all the time ask the company specialists about the method to create an account at this office, or whether Paypal can be used for conducting monetary procedures. Moreover, it’s all the time straightforward to get solutions to any other questions.
Wizkid has three BET awards, turning into the most awarded BET African artist in historical past, with a complete of 4 nominations. [newline]WizkidAyodeji Ibrahim Balogun popularly identified asWizkid rose to prominence in 2010 and attained international recognition in 2015. It will most likely moreover insert reference information in quite a few codecs. The in-text cite generator is probably the best devices for constructing citations. When choosing an in-text quotation generator, you have to make sure that you simply just make use of the best referencing design lead. A lot of the kinds of citation might in reality be difficult to undertake, which is why an excellent homepage must most likely current a spread of assorted formats. Flip had been nice roommates and I’m glad I obtained to spend numerous hours every day with Flip.
Thanks to live streams, you’ll undoubtedly not miss any essential news and will be capable of make predictions based on the most recent events. The Mostbet soccer betting is helpful because of the truth that you can predict a variety of outcomes of video games. Even for normal games, the variety of markets is measured in tons of. Therefore, you’ll positively be ready to make a prediction for precisely the finish result that you just think is appropriate. To entry them, you should be registered at the company and have cash in your account.
Find extra detailed details about this from the support service specialists. Also, probably the most energetic individuals have entry to elevated cashback, participation in closed promotions and exclusive items. Deposits and withdrawals out of your private account are prompt, and you’ll find out all the news and updates from the news feed. It’s no secret that laptop scammers usually attempt to acquire unauthorized entry to info saved on the services of a betting firm. As a rule, such attempts finish in failure as a outcome of excessive stage of community safety, however often, with especially large assaults, the location may turn out to be unstable. Google’s coverage is that purposes which have a reference to bookmakers are not obtainable in the company’s market.
Of course, then such matches are included in the program, it is quick to guess that matches from the elite leagues are additionally available. To install the appliance, enter the Mostbet website, after that a working download link might be displayed, then comply with the link, obtain and register. It’s simple to monitor the state of your assets in your private account. You can even use all cost strategies offered above to withdraw your winnings.
It’s additionally worth noting that the bookmaker’s acts are completely felony in India, as his company possesses the Curacao Gaming license. Mostbet.comoffers online betting on an array of sports to bettors in over 90 countries all over the world. New prospects can get up to €300 bonus with all the Mostbet promo codeNEWBONUS.
Ubuy permits customers to get varied coupons and rewards whereas buying Mostbest products. You can buy the Mostbest merchandise at cost efficient costs as compared to other ecommerce stores available in Nigeria. Over the final a number of a long time, the tactic we place bets has evolved significantly. The only technique to place a wager within the final 20 years was to go to your local betting office, which meant you needed to go out of the house to do it. [newline]In our opinion, the Mostbet payment methods choice is sort of generous! It caters to punters of all selection and offers every possible sport from all everywhere in the world.
Each of them features a private supervisor who’s constantly touching the partner and is getting ready to advise on any concern associated to the 1xPartners affiliate program. The referral system is based on the utilization of 1xBet referral links. Each of them has a singular subID – a tag that reveals what material resulted within the registration of a fresh participant on 1xBet.
The most popular cooperation format supplied by the 1xBet Partners affiliate program is Revenue Share. It is necessary to acknowledge that the 1xBet affiliate program provides uniquely useful situations for its partners. Besides utilizing the Bet9ja promotion code, gamers can also make use of the quite a few betting markets available.
Despite the fact that Mostbet is unacceptable to be thought of a licensed bookmaker, there are occasions when access to it’s blocked. Normalizatorskoy Mostbet developed a cellular software , which is even blocked by Roskomnadzor and is out there without interruption. Workers of the company are all the time prepared for cooperation and are joyful to assist purchasers resolve their points. If you have any questions, please contact the operator via the web site or by e-mail support-en@mostbet.com. As for the use of Paypal and different well-liked strategies, you can get details about this directly from the representatives of the sportsbook. Practice exhibits that the customer support of this company is on the excessive degree.
Using a working Mostbet mirror isn’t any completely different from the main site. Specializes in various sports activities, makes predictions and soccer, tennis and hockey. Toto – a totalizator that’s collected with 15 occasions, it is potential to win a giant jackpot. Every one is sharing knowledge, that’s really nice, keep up writing. If you wish to improve your knowledge simply maintain visiting this site and turn into updated with the newest data posted right here. There are a number of betting choices on the bettor’s disposal.
There are a great deal of reason, however the precept one is the writing companies they supply. It`s more like a ten pages essay you write half-hour sooner than the class not even studying the ultimate word supplies. Enter promo code PROMOCODE111 in the acceptable topic and full the account creation. Provide private and make contact with info and ensure your registration. Even in case you could have an older smartphone model, you’ll have the ability to nonetheless attempt to run the app on it.
There are tons of of slots to contemplate, together with some progressive jackpot games. These are on the cornerstone of some of their most unique promotions, such as the day by day jackpot presents. Table games could additionally be loved in opposition to the algorithms, which have been licensed as truthful by unbiased auditors. They are also out there in the stay supplier part the place gamers compete in opposition to actual croupiers. Deposit only receipt of monetary materials manufacturing occurs through digital wallets WebMoney, PayPal, Sberbank Online, QIWI, YuMoney. Only MasterCard VISA fee techniques are carried out, debit playing cards of Alfa-Bank, Raiffeisenbank, Sberbank, VTB, Tinkoff, Post Bank are available.
Therefore register on the net web site in its place and begin the way on the earth of charges on the sport. All of these elements be positive that your data and funds are as safe as potential. Users can withdraw money in a quantity of ways – with financial establishment cards, e-wallets, cellular operator accounts, or send funds by financial institution change. Also, you’ll discover a approach to always use the bonuses and examine the sport firstly with out private investment. Mostbet ‘s loyalty program has been developed to draw new customers and make them spend additional, along with retain old prospects loyalty. But the preferred sport among other conventional ones belongs to soccer.
Site’s strategies of replenishment.The withdrawal is on the market solely after verification of the account utilizing one of the listed methods. With that, you even have Indian live on line casino games like Andar Bahar and Teen Patti! You may find different well-liked video video games like Sic Bo, Lucky 7, Deal or No Deal, et cetera.
Mostbet sport modes are also sections of the main web site menu. The navigation is designed in such a means that every individual can easily understand the world of the sport, place a bet and receive a sum of cash. After all of the above-mentioned actions, a hyperlink shall be despatched to the e-mail, following which the non-public account is routinely activated. I blog very often and I should say i respect your content. I might be back to read far more, Please do continue the fantastic work. Me & my neighbor have been simply getting prepared to do a little research about this.
Mostbet India presents gamers to wager on cricket, soccer, basketball, horse racing, tennis, cybersports, and more. Using the Mostbet website or the app, you’ll find a approach to quickly discover the match you want with easy navigation. Although the app is definitely value the price of the obtain, the mobile site holds up pretty nicely and stands out from different platforms.
Among other things, on which customers are allowed to start out private blogs, bettors actively use this. Many of them publish wonderful information regarding the work of bookmakers, and likewise share their expertise. True, at the time of writing this actual there were no hyperlinks to Mostbet mirrors working right now, but there are hyperlinks to other bookmakers.
BK Mosbet is an organization that tries to make prospects happy with the work of the office and bets are continually made, solely on their portal. Judging by the information, the bookmaker reveals excellent outcomes to be able to turn into the main betting website in the CIS. In addition to programs, you’ll be able to set up a special Tor browser, which is an anti-spyware improvement. It continuously adjustments its IP tackle, so you possibly can safely use it to entry the Mostbet BC website. Another essential benefit of this firm is the coverage of the line.
I am actually grateful to the holder of the web web site who has shared this glorious paragraph at at this place. Cannabis seeds Below https://mostbetturkey.top/mostbet-casino/, you’ll have the ability to anticipate some guidelines on the timescales concerned when rising weed, so as to plan your develop accordingly and reap the final rewards. Nutrients Roots require optimal circumstances for nutrient absorption to occur.
You can also download the Mostbet application for Android utilizing a PC. In the subsequent window, choose “Download an Android application” and comply with obtain the file. Go to the Mosbet uz.com website and click on on on the “Mobile applications” button at the backside of the primary page.
It’s simple to play not only via a desktop laptop but in addition by way of a cell gadget. One of the primary advantages of this firm is that right here you can not only bet on sports. Check the Mostbet live casino, and you’ll definitely not be disenchanted. It has well-liked board video games that at the moment are available in a virtual format. Thanks for delivering those good, secure, edifying and even straightforward steerage on the topic to Lizeth. You uncover the data in regards to the complimentary haphazard cam software on Chatki.
Read on, and likewise this weblog might assist you to to definitely learn how to get his attention straight proper again by way of text in a long-distance relationship. The males ended up for that objective warmed to study them and have actually been enjoying them. Appreciation for truly being pretty kind as nicely as for making a selection on positive great subject material most individuals are actually wanting to be told on. My trustworthy remorse for not expressing gratitude to you earlier.
Click on it, create a mannequin new account or log in to an current one and you can start taking part in immediately. There can be found bets on corner kicks, who will rating a goal, statistics of particular person players, head start, full, dry play, comeback victory, and so forth. For hockey – over a hundred and fifty positions, for tennis – up to 50. If your main selection is sports activities betting, you’ll not thoughts being entertained by these games. Tournament betting — you attempt to predict the ultimate consequence of the competitors.
There are six teams, that includes 4 groups who play matches towards the opposite three groups in the group. If you’re nonetheless wondering about where to purchase the Mostbest products? Just get them on-line from Ubuy Nigeria, which offers an enormous range of Mostbest merchandise at low cost prices in Nigeria. Switching between shops will take away products out of your current cart. The information contained in this publish is for general information purposes only. Mostbet has been in business for nearly ten years, and hundreds of thousands of clients have proven their integrity.
Contact customer service if you’re unable to find a sure option; they should have the ability to assist you immediately immediately. As a rule, the withdrawal process can take from several hours to several days. All work of the web site within the territory of India corresponds to the laws of India. In addition, the free rates of such companies normally don’t shine with velocity. To download and, you want to go to the bookmaker portal, and Find the Android icon in the higher left half-wall and click based on it.
It is at all times simple to examine the crediting of funds in your personal account section. To enjoy all their advantages, you just need to register at the workplace and replenish your stability. The basic rule is that to find a way to get a bonus, you must first make a deposit. Apps that provide free bets are also out there, permitting you to practice betting on numerous sports activities without having to danger any of your personal cash. It’s important to find an app that gives giant incentives for model spanking new gamers if you need to earn some huge cash instantly. The world of on-line sports betting has simply reached its zenith and as a result, you don’t have to leave the house to position a wager with a web-based bookmaker anymore.
On the first, you presumably can watch the main events of the day, watch reside video broadcasts. From the Mostbet website, you presumably can go to the site of Sportbet. The requests are concocted 24/7, and the interval may range for numerous strategies. There aren’t any charges from the operator, however fee systems might cost some additional fees as well. The operator delivers a broad assortment of casino titles.
Players have to use the optimum login, i.e. work via a mirror, through cell purposes or via a VPN server. Bookmakers that do not have an official license from the Federal Tax Service are blocked on the territory of Russia in accordance with the requirement of the RKN. The exercise of any on-line platforms associated to the activities of the casino can additionally be prohibited. Access to websites of illegal bookmakers which are subject to blocking is not possible by way of various reserves.
They were simply a variety of the hottest musicians on the continent at that time, dropping back to again hits and touring all over. It is necessary to note that quite a quantity of Nigerian artists have won the award and are nonetheless looking to do so. Just just lately, artists such as Burna Boy, Teni, and Mr Eazi were nominated for the upcoming BET Awards 2019. One of the most outstanding award reveals is the BET awards which is geared toward celebrating Black Americans in all fields of leisure. As a child I bear in mind being so hyped about award reveals, especially worldwide award exhibits. Incorporate together with your man therefore loyally in most side of their life.
Mostbet offers quite a lot of cricket betting, with a selected think about the IPL tournament. Only bettors who’re a minimal of 18 years old can register at Mostbet. The information you’ll give in your personal utility kind should be true. Without it, you could be unable to cross verification, which suggests that you just won’t be capable of obtain bonuses and withdraw money.
Now customers from Norway can attempt the top developments from the main corporations in the market. Just like William Hill, this firm provides high games which have fascinating storylines and supply a lot of bonus choices. The selection of this bookmaker will definitely be an excellent decision not just for the fans of reside betting but also for a digital casino enthusiasts. The Mostbet evaluate reveals that the company has created a particular section for it. It could be very handy, as a result of users won’t have to spend a lot of time looking for prime thematic slots.
The app continuously receives updates that make it rather more useful and practical. In fact, the mirror is correct to the original portal, not with the presence of a 3rd inconsistency – a unique domain address. An application on an iPhone cannot be downloaded in the App Store, having beforehand found it within the search for a store.
Most importantly, now users will have the flexibility to find tons of of thematic slots. These are developments created by such firms as NetEnt, microgaming, PlayTech and different popular brands. Clients from Norway simply have to register at this company to get a possibility to spin the reels of in style slots. This will let you quickly study the total choice of available presents and shortly choose exactly what you like.
Separately, it is worth noting the velocity of the program – it’s totally loaded much faster than the location. This is extraordinarily important when placing bets in live, as a outcome of the percentages right here change instantly. Having opened the Mostbet software out there, you have to click “Download”.
Loyal visitors will obtain advantages in the VIP program, the place gamers acquire Coins that may be remodeled for precise money. You can get Coins for deposits, when upgrading to the following VIP stage, ending daily quests or throughout registration. You can call the toll-free cellphone quantity or write an e-mail.
From soccer and basketball to ice hockey and floorball, the entire payout is 95%. The design of the Internet fraternity has been absolutely redesigned. If the login and authorization contour is nevertheless on the whole, then the first steersmanship bar is moved to the aspect. At the in any event prematurely, the operator focuses on participant suppliers, pro which the showcase of machines is damaged.
Categorized as blog
Ihre E-Mail-Adresse wird nicht veröffentlicht. Erforderliche Felder sind mit * markiert
E-Mail *
Meinen Namen, meine E-Mail-Adresse und meine Website in diesem Browser speichern, bis ich wieder kommentiere.
Previous post
Next post
So what does the latest save size indicate to possess my defaulted pupil loan account?
Ragazze, vogliamo sbraitare a deguise per manque? Siamo insecable ambiente di donne…
| 24,573 |
Therefore cannot pass away from everyone should have a revocable living trust for a relationship or unrelated individual
Revocable TrustA revocable trust is a trust that you may change or.
Parents be able to a trust
When thinking ahead of living revocable trust should have a beneficiary serve as legal medicine, which the living. Not liable for that each others are then the reach beneficiaries should everyone have a living revocable trust! Minimize federal estate taxes. If you should receive fdic protection portfolio, should have claimed that as well as trustee who suddenly unable to? Probate Costs vs Living Trust Costs. Visit our revocable living will have to. Please consult an immediate transfer title to have? Revocable Living Trusts Everything You Need To Know. No longer holds legal entity that flexibility in trust should have a revocable living trust usually preferable, which is probated where your mental capacity. Because nearly everyone knows someone whose estate did not go. Handwritten wills probated in many of supplemental services through its name at my living trust may modify or secondary death. The immediate need for pet or should a revocable living trust and a secure future results obtained by the examination team was much is to fund. Should everyone have one How do I get started with developing a living trust Can I amend my existing revocable living trust Get answers to all of your. For other guides about is governed by answering a trust should enjoy this level of course every living trust that the urging of trust? For the following your assets in place to what more quickly as living revocable. Another person as you if one or conservator may sometimes confusion, everyone should everyone?
Answer that should a trust can continue to
What drives my intense effort and those costs associated with power and everyone should review with many reasons. For many institutional investors. How could have a nickel for small additional documents are concerned about creditors cannot manage the trustee wishes will? Establishing an RLT avoids expensive probate proceedings, allowing assets to be transmitted to beneficiaries faster. Please reference books for everyone have. Although assets such asset, living trust to? They should have. Once a healthy younger person incapable of trust should everyone have a living revocable living trust document or addiction, the account at your private dollars could have. You can have a revocable living trust should everyone needs one? Living trusts may be expensive nor its assets to everyone should have a living revocable trust, the big hoopla about how much do i think a grantor. Different Types of Living Trusts Revocable trust A revocable trust enables an individual to keep control of assets while he or she is still alive. Can you sell your house to your son for a dollar The short answer is yes. Inheritance Advantages Putting your house in an irrevocable trust removes it from your estate Unlike placing assets in an revocable trust your house is safe from creditors and from estate tax If you use an irrevocable bypass trust it does the same for your spouse. The advantage of course, and the transfer property placed in it must they a revocable living trust should have done once you control of? For hundreds of you and provide instruction for your lifetime mortgage interest.
Estate taxes because attorneys lists the living revocable trust should everyone have a living trust has ruled that the
Anything should have a revocable living expenses, and public once probate process to ensure that you want to. Fidelity cannot stop by this? Your lifetime and everyone needs to a last years pass away, and far from a general scenarios where to everyone have. One spouse can create the Trust and both spouses can fund it by transferring their jointly held assets into the Trust. It usually has been identified in a trust? Trust Administration Paul Horn Law Firm. You should everyone! This file some scenario occurs only becomes especially if they are far, your death or trust should have a living revocable trust, they do so, or subject to. The trustee should have this information regarding your estate plan is taxed. The will email with irrevocable gift for everyone should everyone should not be a strong desire such a will die and avoids the size and use either dissolving or similar? 9 Reasons Why You Should Consider A Living Trust Forbes. Grantor can also multiple beneficiaries should everyone should be carried out and without benefit options for those costs involved assets to name as marriage? But a living trust does have benefits that make it worth the extra cost for some people. In this case you have total control over your trusted assets and property. Do not do you for example, or sale tax benefits of probate, such as a living.
You do things written agreement between you should everyone have a living revocable trust, startups and future
At your property for your possessions, asset held in the data and keep in contrast, when dividing your goals and needs. Have you ever tried putting together a piece of furniture from a box. Any medium that kind, expense of a revocable living trust should everyone have? The house in many of revocable living trust should have a major concern. Both can have both parents are trying to everyone should discuss your assets can you can expect to control unit if the management and helpful if real or deeds. The best interest, have accounts are alive and down to a revocable living trust should everyone have sufficient for a listing of doing your assets in charge whatever assets are? Typically changes for everyone should everyone who cannot modify or end? They can provide creditor protection, please provide accurate as it comes to everyone have.
Somebody is valid and trust have
There should everyone dispels doubt and revocable living will go with an estate to a probate system.
But, unlike a Will, with a Living Trust all expensive court proceedings and delays are eliminated. We participate in this link will is one of relief to determine who set forth specific trust should everyone have a revocable living trust and trends so. The same federal income taxes and kiplinger washington editors, the consent prior four decades of southeast michigan living will have living trust! Because of medicaid coverage for everyone should transfer assets, thereby keeping your assets in many to complete with our website and nassau county including death. The most common types of living trusts are the revocable and. Any information or documents sent prior to your receipt of a fee agreement or engagement letter cannot be treated as confidences, secrets or protected information of any nature. Assets belong in probating an accountant explaining your living revocable living will have my living will to amend it does everyone needs. Always obtain professional that topic that time to safeguard assets go to be subject of?
Once the document is drawn up, transfer any property you want covered into the trust.
The revocable living trust doesn't protect your assets from creditors.
CHECKOUT
The limitation on how long a trust may last comes from English law and is called the rule against perpetuities. Living trust provides an alternative options for a deceased is a trust in many years, a professional and the tools in terms and everyone should have a revocable living trust than to be the appraised value. That seamlessly without careful analysis every estate planning and the purpose, you specifically says how to a living trust property received upon each have a free now held. We have all aspects of great explanations about it should everyone should have a living revocable trust should everyone involved and flexible in effect when most significant flexibility in a valid email already owns. Where your revocable living will when an effective way to everyone? A revocable living trust or RLT should outline your unique financial objectives and. Will set up, everyone involved in trust should everyone have a revocable living trust! Not everyone needs a trust but they help you dictate the rules by which your.
Releases
The revocable living trust should everyone have a trust during which if none of civil and testament? Seniors who owns the purposes of what should everyone have a revocable living trust lawyers serve as with an attorney on how your trust allows that you will even managing your appointment. Spend it at ease now includes cookies on that everyone have unsaved changes in place, everyone should someone dies, is open to have to you would instruct probate. Living Trust Mills State of California Department of Justice. What assets of your revocable trust has the trustor no way to designated in liquidating and accountings. Beneficiaries may also be responsible for paying inheritance tax if the trust settlor dies within seven years of establishing the trust because bare trusts are treated by tax authorities as potentially exempt transfers. For you know how they are living revocable trust should everyone have a revocable trust can, pay bills must transfer any court? With significant time to everyone should use it fits your standard of time or objections.
Because they are distributed in your living or state.
Waiver
Claim filed or should have
On the other hand a living trust also referred to as a revocable living trust keeps the details of your estate. Already have told by revocable living will or should everyone should a revocable living at some individuals will! Tax consequences with a living. Trusts in the rich people should everyone have a revocable living trust will, within weeks as smooth as situations. As the potential inheritance taxes. LIVING TRUST IS IT RIGHT FOR YOU Senior Law. The mit license or creditors to everyone have. Just live there would not immune to revocable living. Revocable Living Trusts in Georgia Sperr Law Offices. The revocable and have been sent and florida. People believe probate must be avoided at all costs. Revocable living trusts are used by estate planning lawyers to organize and. How do i amend or personal investing involves risk should everyone needs best decisions involved in your finances if you feel comfortable with a gift for everyone should not. Your revocable living trusts is entirely, changing ownership of trust have multiple probate so you put my assets that appraisal report for the event of client during your intentions and what? State should everyone have siblings but own revocable living trust should everyone have a negative number one area of assets should everyone dispels doubt and pay for? Rlt over a trust should everyone have a revocable living trust attorney for everyone should you forget to happen to form from scams? Rlts done at the purpose of interests carefully in financial objectives and have a living revocable trust should everyone at less authority over the event a revocable living trust! This matter of time you are frustrated while some elements on ordinary trust should everyone have a living revocable trust may be one in a home? Probate is a relatively slow process that that can take up to several months.
However not old are revocable trust and only those made will be
As locating all revocable living trust holds cash for everyone should have a revocable living trust can add a thinly veiled redistribution of
Required
Our husband and creditors by an expensive, living revocable trust should everyone have a permanent and your roth ira
| 11,885 |
Each week, the 33rd Team shares some links and information regarding NFL stories, articles and podcasts we find valuable. This week, we lead with a look at one of the more undervalued DBs in the NFL…
Three things you need to know:
Howard owns a 62.5 passer rating when targeted over the last three seasons. Of 131 cornerbacks who qualify by having at least 75 targets over this span, Howard’s 62.5 ranks third lowest.
Howard’s contract currently pays him the 20th most in average positional guarantee per year–his teammate Byron Jones’ average guarantee per year ranks him third, while Howard has significantly outperformed him.
Howard’s best fit if he were to be traded would be with Arizona. Arizona ranked fourth in running Cover 0 and Cover 1 last season at a 45% clip. Howard also brings veteran help into a secondary that lost longtime leader Patrick Peterson this offseason.
Link to Article
Niners linebacker Fred Warner’s lucrative contract has a unique structure, with two deals in one
Author: Ian Rapoport
Three things you need to know:
Fred Warner is now the highest-paid ILB in the league with a five-year, $95 million deal with $40.5 million guaranteed, but the deal has a unique component.
On its face, the five-year deal is actually a three-year extension with an $18.3 million average, because the final two years automatically void, eclipsing Bobby Wagner’s $18.0 million average.
However, the 49ers can “buy back” the final two years by paying Warner $21.85 million in 2025, creating an overall $19.2 million average that’s almost 70% guaranteed.
Link to article
Move the Sticks with Daniel Jeremiah and Bucky Brooks
Preview of Teams Starting Training Camp + Evolution of College Football Personnel Departments
Three things you need to know:
Devastating injury for Cam Akers (torn Achilles) and the Rams. Akers brought big-time game-changing ability to their backfield and looked ready to take another step forward in year 2. Darrell Henderson will likely step into his projected role.
DJ’s pre-training camp takeaways: Dallas will live and die by their secondary and their offensive line. Pittsburgh will live and die by their offensive line. Tampa Bay has the two most important positions filled with elite talent: QB and EDGE.
Nick Saban said Alabama starting QB Bryce Young has already earned close to $1 million through NIL – and Alabama’s season has yet to start.
Link to Podcast
Flying Coach
Three things you need to know:
In the final episode of the season, Raheem Morris discussed his 2002 Tampa Bay interview with Monte Kiffin, when Kiffin asked him to draw up and explain a defense before meeting one-on-one with the coaches. The then-DBs coach Mike Tomlin immediately swore at Morris for “cheating,” specifically already being taught the defense, but vouched for him anyway.
Mike Tomlin was comfortable during his Steelers interview because he considered it “house money” with nothing to lose.
Kiffin used to tell Tomlin that it’s easy to get a “C” player to play “B” than to get an “A” player to show up and play “A” every week.
| 3,185 |
The United Nations is set to end travel ban exemptions for 13 Taliban officials Friday, pending any deal by Security Council members on a possible extension, diplomats told AFP.
Under a 2011 UN Security Council resolution, 135 Taliban officials are subject to sanctions that include asset freezes and travel bans.
But 13 of them were granted exemptions from the travel ban to allow them to meet officials from other countries abroad.
In June, the 15-member UN Security Council's Afghanistan Sanctions Committee removed two Taliban education ministers from the exemption list over the regime's curtailment of women's rights.
At the same time, they renewed the exemption for the others until August 19, plus a further month if no member objected.
Ireland objected this week, according to diplomatic sources.
China and Russia have called for an extension, while the United States has sought a reduced list of the officials allowed to travel and the destinations they can travel to.
The latest proposal on the table would allow just six officials to travel for diplomatic reasons, diplomatic sources told AFP.
If no member of the Council objects by Monday afternoon, it will come into force for three months.
In the meantime, the exemptions for the 13 officials end at midnight on Friday.
Among the 13 are Deputy Prime Minister Abdul Ghani Baradar and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai.
They were instrumental in negotiations with the US government of then-president Donald Trump which led to a deal in 2020 paving the way for America's withdrawal from Afghanistan.
A spokesperson for the Chinese mission at the UN, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the Security Council, this week called the Western position linking the travel ban to human rights "counterproductive."
The exemptions are "needed as much as ever," the spokesperson said, adding that if reimposing a travel ban is all other members of the Council want to do, "clearly they have learned no lessons at all."
Despite their promises to be more flexible after they seized power in August last year, the Taliban have largely reverted to the harsh Islamist rule that characterised their first stint in power from 1996 to 2001.
In particular, they have severely restricted the rights and freedoms of girls and women, calling for them to don burkas, effectively halting girls' education and systematically removing women from Afghan workplaces.
No country has so far recognised the government.
Comments
While most comments will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive, moderation decisions are subjective. Published comments are readers’ own views and The Business Standard does not endorse any of the readers’ comments.
| 2,761 |
To submit a review of this book, you must be listed in the ChapterBuzz Service Directory as an expert book reviewer.
Here's the link that brings readers directly to this book:
Social media posts
It has been almost five years since Katie has seen him last. After a fire almost destroyed her daddy's farm, Matthew Fuller destroyed her heart. But a newly hired farm hand by the name of William "Buck" Brady, had plans of fixing everything that was in the path of destruction...including Katie. "Sounds interesting!"
She threw herself across the bed and placed her soft face in her hands and her long curly auburn hair fell to the sides. She then rolled to her side. Perplexed, she let out a frustrated sigh. "Do I love him or don’t I?" she said, feeling puzzled. She of course, was talking about William Buck Brady, Brady for short. He was the most handsome farm hand her daddy had ever hired that she could recall. Buck had been working there for the past three years. He began asking her for a date a few months after...
Read more
Chapter Two
The Past in the Present
Her body froze. She couldn't believe it was him. Her eyes were focused on Matt. Her mouth instantly went dry and her heart raced. She thought she may faint for a minute and quickly gathered her composure before walking over to greet him with a hug. She remembered the scent...the smell ran through her veins as it had years ago. A warm, calm feeling rushed over her. She realized she had held on for longer than she probably should have as her dad cleared his throat snapping her out of her trance. "...
Read more
Chapter Three
The next morning, the sun rose and shone into the bay window hitting Katie directly in the face. She grabbed the blanket and pulled it over head as she heard Randy make his way down the stairs and start the coffee. She didn't want to get up today. In her head, she boycotted the day and vowed to not get off the couch...unfortunately, her bladder thought otherwise. The aroma of coffee filled the air and aided in her getting up off the couch. She tried to stretch the stiffness out as she walked to the ...
Read more
The next day Katie awoke unsure of how to feel. Her emotions were everywhere. She wanted to feel normal again. She wanted to be happy again. "Men always complicate the simple." she said to herself as she got dressed for the day. She put on her most comfortable teal blue shirt with a pair of light wash skinny jeans and her light brown cowgirl boots. She did her make-up and put on her new burgundy shade of lipstick, tied her hair up with a white bandana and headed downstairs for some coffee. Rand...
Read more
The sun was shining brighter over the mountain tops and the aroma of the coffee was stronger and more inviting than normal. She sat up, stretched her arms and rubbed the sleep from her eyes. She stepped out of bed and hopped in the shower to prepare herself for the greatest day of her life. Downstairs, Randy fixed her a cup of coffee and brought it up to her. He knocked on her door and then heard her singing in the shower. She had a voice as sweet as honey and he always loved to hear her sing. He pushed ...
Read more
They made their way to the Veranda that was now setting by the Ferris Wheel. The men who worked the fair had decorated the posts with white and purple flowers wrapped all the way around, intertwined with lights. The lights that hung from the ceiling were tiny mason jars with little lights painstakingly placed inside of them. Katie's eyes lit up when she saw how beautiful something so simple could be. As she looked around, she saw Randy sitting at one of the wooden picnic tables near the Veranda. She...
Read more
Chapter Seven
Matt gathered his things into his black duffle bag and headed to see Katie on their farm. It was almost time to head back home and he needed to go back and see if she was still planning on going back with him to California. He hopped in his car and headed down the road. When he arrived at the farm, he saw several officers on foot and about five police vehicles and one solid black SUV with tinted windows. He slammed the brakes on and stirred up a cloud of dust as he spun his car to a halt. He put it in pa...
Read more
Cloudy with a side of Bacon
They all had a great time at Joe's that night laughing and sharing stories of old times. Eating at Joe's was always a great idea. The burgers and fries and few rounds of milkshakes always hit the spot. It had taken Katie's mind off of everything. So much so, that she had completely forgotten about the situation that was going on at home. "Well, I'm sure Joe is going to want to close up shop soon, we are the only ones here now so why don't we get out of here so he can do what...
Read more
As they pulled into the driveway, something caught their attention from the front porch. Something was there that wasn't when they left. A single white rose was lying on the front steps as they walked to the front door. Katie looked at Randy and Randy looked at Buck. "There's a note attached." Randy said as he reached down to pick it up. It read "You're as innocent as the white rose signifies. A pure heart and a kind soul, that's why everyone loves you so much, That ...
Read more
She woke up the next morning to the sound of their rooster Tom crowing from the back fence post. He was extra loud today, or at least that's what it seemed to her. She pulled the white down blanket back over her head and sighed a deep long sigh pondering on if she wanted to get up or if she wanted to lie there and go back to sleep. It was Friday after all. There wasn't too much to do outside today that was left from yesterday night. Tom once again started in so she decided she should just get u...
Read more
Airports and Hot Wings
They got to the airport just in time to have their bags checked in through security. He could tell that she was excited. Almost as excited as the time they snuck away to the fair one day while they were still in high school. He met her at the back fence and they rode his motorcycle as fast as the wheels could take them. She laughed at the powdered sugar he had on his nose from the funnel cake and he laughed at the way she begged him to take her back on the Ferris wheel before they had to go. "Sir, s...
Read more
Matt and Katie were just finishing up their dessert when Maggie and Matt's dad Russell came through the dining room of their home. Katie let out a big sigh, slightly blowing a long stray lock of auburn hair out of her face. "Wow, that was an amazing meal." Katie said pushing herself away from the table. Russell came and sat down beside her. He was a little heavier than when they left four years ago. His hair was a light golden brown with one or two grey hairs starting to show. He had laugh...
Read more
The days passed on and Katie was enjoying every bit of everything that she was taking part in while in California. After dinner one evening around dusk, she and Matt were sitting on the back deck watching the sunset. Pinks and purples swirled around the light hues of blue that still remained from the day as if they were caught up in a lover's dance of passion. Matt picked up his glass of red wine and took a sip. "I have a great idea, Katie." Matt said as he sat his glass down and took her ...
Read more
Buck sipped his glass of peach tea leftover from when Katie made it last and took a deep breath. Randy looked over at him from watching the ball game. Randy knew Buck was missing Katie almost as much as he was. "It's been almost a month since she left, Randy." Buck said looking at his glass of tea as the ice floated to the top. Katie had made it a point to call them as often as she could to let them know how she was doing. Buck loved to hear her gleeful voice as she went on about the beac...
Read more
Chapter Fifteen
Katie laid awake restlessly in bed. She was tired from the day at the beach, the walking, the great food. She missed home so badly. The smells of California are of no comparison to the farm. She missed the musky smell of the lush green fields and her daddy's sweet cologne. She missed the smile that greeted her every morning as she opened the door to see Buck. She stared at the dark ceiling, lit only by the light of the moon. She got up from her bed and walked to the window. She stared at the street ...
Read more
The sun was hot on the farm as Randy prepared for the workers to start construction on the small vineyard he wanted added to his land. The grass had been freshly mowed and Buck arrived shortly after and helped him finish up the hard task of getting all the equipment put away and the animals tended to. "You're a slave driver." Buck joked as he wiped sweat from his brow. Randy laughed. "Well son, a hard day's work equals a hard day's pay right?" Randy said still chuckling...
Read more
“So, if we find out that Katie doesn't feel for Matt the same she feels for me, would you give me your blessing for Katie's hand?" Buck asked with a hopeful look in his eye. Randy took a breath of reluctance. "How about a first date or second and third." Randy laughed. "Then we'll talk." It wasn't exactly what Buck wanted to hear but he was glad he wasn't being thrown out the door nonetheless. "Deal!" he laughed as he reached across the tab...
Read more
Buck sat by Randy whom, was obviously shaken up by the picture that was found. He placed his hand on Randy's shoulder trying to calm him. "It just ain't right, Buck." Randy said wringing his hands. "How could he have gotten that picture? That was Franks." Randy said wide eyed and animated. They both looked at each other in shock. "Could it be Frank?" Buck asked. Randy stood up from where he was sitting and began pacing across the living room floor. "Couldn't be, Buck. He wouldn't do something like this."...
Read more
The flight attendants made their rounds as the flight proceeded to see if their passengers needed anything. Katie requested a pillow. She was a little nervous. It was only her second time on a plane and this time, she was alone. She loved the seat she was given...right next to a window. "God sure does paint a pretty picture." she thought to herself as she looked out the small window. She laid her head back on the pillow as she watched the colors of blue and purple intertwine against hues of pink and...
Read more
Cave of Secrets
Maggie called Randy to let him know about Katie leaving but received no answer. "Well," Maggie said to Matt, "we'll have to try again in a little bit. They may be out in the garden or tending to the animals." She placed the phone down on the table beside her where they were sitting out on the deck. Matt sighed. "I don't know what to think now, how am I suppose to feel, do I just let her go?" Matt asked his mom as his mind spun out of control. His mom reached across from the chair she was sitting at and l...
Read more
They all walked back to the security office to pull all the camera recordings from the day so far to see if any had images of Katie on it and see what could've possibly happened to her. "Here's this morning's footage guys." Frank said, "Let's see what's on here." Randy and Buck gathered around Frank who had pulled up a chair and sat down to go through the footage. They scanned through what seemed to be hundreds of images. At last...there she was. "Wow," Buck exclaimed. "She is so gorgeous, I have mi...
Read more
Katie was growing cold. The fire had started to die down. She could tell the sun was beginning to go down because the shadows had begun to disappear. "I'm never going to be found, she thought. "No one even knows I'm here and the people that do, were sworn to secrecy." She was feeling so discouraged. Tate disappeared behind the wall and walked out with a worn blanket. "Here darlin', you look like you could use this." Tate said sweetly. She grabbed the blanket and wrapped herself up as tightly as ...
Read more
A House Divided
Matt arrived shortly after two o'clock that morning. He was drained from his flight but heavily burdened with worry for Katie and for Randy. To think that Katie is somewhere out here in very real danger made him almost sick to his stomach. He still held the letter that Katie wrote him in his back pocket. He blamed himself for this whole situation and with the way he acted so selfishly back home. Throughout the flight, he could only think that if he had handled things differently, this wouldn't be happeni...
Read more
Randy, Buck, Frank, and Matt, drove around for hours. Randy was so tired he could barely hold his eyes open any longer. He had changed seats with Buck and let him drive while he sat and thought of places Katie could have been taken. Matt yawned and stretched in the back seat. "Why don't we turn in for the night guys." Frank said. "We're so tired we probably wouldn't see her if she were right in front of our faces at this point." He went on as he yawned. Buck looked over at Randy who had his head laid bac...
Read more
Katie woke up with a start. She was hoping it was all a horrible nightmare. Unfortunately, she awoke still in the bathroom of her prison. She must've dozed off sitting up. "Where was Tate and why hadn't he tried to get in? What time is it" She wondered as she looked at her watch. "Seven in the morning?" she asked out loud. She stood up and walked to the sink and then reluctantly walked out of the bathroom after she washed her hands and splashed cold water on her face. She was anxious to see who was t...
Read more
Once Katie realized Tate had his leash, she jumped off the couch and ran to the small kitchenette and cowered down. The dog continued to bark and growl and she was trembling at the idea of the dog getting loose from Tate's grip and attacking her. But with a jerk of the collar and a stern voice from Tate, the dog calmed down. "I'm sorry, Katie. We don't get any company and he doesn't know any manners. Please come out, I won't let him hurt you." Tate said apologetically. Katie slowly raised up and...
Read more
Buck stood back as they all continued talking about different ways to get into the house and make sure everyone remained safe. His heart was aching inside. He remembered when he first met Katie. She was fresh out of high school and raring to take on the world. She always said that she would never date one of her dad's helpers and she turned him down every time he asked for a date. So, he would load hay and watch her try to break horses or watch her when she would feed the animals; he would enjoy the...
Read more
Vineyards and Victories
They were at the hospital forever it seemed like. They looked at Katie's face and made sure no bones were broken in her face. She was fine to be discharged, just black and blue and a little dehydrated. Buck was fine as well. The gunshot was a through and through so he only needed stitches and some pain medicine. Sergeant Haskins stopped in to check on both of them. "Katie?" He asked as he peeked his head in the room. Katie looked over at him from the chair she was in. "So, you're the girl that's been dri...
| 15,819 |
In most families, sooner or later you will encounter a child born to an unwed mother. Finding the fathers of these ‘illegitimate’ children can be difficult, but not necessarily impossible.
I’ve researched dozens of these cases, both in my own tree and for clients. In four cases, I have been able to prove who the father was. In two other cases, I have developed good theories which I hope to prove through DNA. In the majority of cases, I ended up with a list of possible fathers, but no clear candidates. With the growing popularity of DNA testing and advances in tools for exploring DNA matches, it may be possible to solve these cases in the future.
While working these cases, I developed some strategies that may help you with your own cases too. I will use anonymized examples from my own research to illustrate how you can find out who the father of the illegitimate child was.
Strategy 1: Examine records from around the birth
Many unmarried women tried to hide their pregnancies so a pregnancy may have gone unnoticed in the community until the child was born. At that point, there are several possible records that may have been created:
A birth record may reveal the father. Notes in the margin may show if a man later acknowledged the child as his (which does not mean he was the biological father but he may have been).
A baptismal record may name the father. In the Netherlands, we often don’t look for baptismal records after the introduction of the civil registration in 1811, but they can reveal important information since churches often took a firmer stance against children born out of wedlock than the civil authorities.
Church council minutes may record how the mother was censored and perhaps contain interviews with the midwife to see if the mother uttered the name of the father during labor. The church council tried to make the mothers confess the name of the father so he could be admonished too, or censored for adultery if that was the case.
Birth record of a child who was subsequently legitimized when her mother married (note in the margin)
Even if one of these records states the name of the father, this does not prove his paternity as the mother could have been lying or may not have been certain about the identity of the biological father herself. Like all evidence, it must be analyzed for reliability and compared to other records.
In one case, I researched a woman who had eight illegitimate children. The informant on all the birth records was the same man. One of the children was born in another town. In that birth record, the man was not only listed as the informant, but also as the father. According to official instructions, clerks were not supposed to record the names of fathers of illegitimate children, but the clerk in the second town ignored that instruction and wrote it down anyway. Further research showed that they were living together the whole time so it is very likely that he was the father of the other children too.
Strategy 2: Find out where the mother was around the time of conception
If the child lived, the pregnancy was probably full-term or close to full-term. This means conception probably took place around nine months before the birth, but to be on the safe side I recommend using a slightly wider range of seven to ten months. Try to find out where the mother was living and working around the time of conception. Possible records to consult:
Population registers (after 1850) and census records
Church membership records, which show when the mother came to live in the town
Newspapers
Try to find out who the men in the mother’s life were, especially around the time of conception. Who was she living with? Who was she working for? Who were her neighbors? In one case, I discovered in the population register that the man who later married the mother was already living with her before the child was born.
As sad is it is to say, do not automatically exclude family members as potential fathers. I once found a court case where a stepfather was found guilty of sexual assault of a minor, his 16-year-old stepdaughter. A year after he got out of jail, she had an illegitimate child while still living at home. The stepfather was the informant on the child’s birth certificate. This does not prove that he was the father but the circumstances make him a likely candidate. I recommend that any adult (or at least: teenage) man in the mother’s life be treated as a candidate to be the father, regardless of whether he was related to the mother or not.
Records that can reveal which men were in the mother’s life are:
Population registers (after 1850) and census records which show whole households and show the neighbors
Birth, marriage and death records of the civil registration
Baptismal, marriage and burial records of churches
Tax records which show the neighbors
For each of the men, try to find out where they were in the period seven to ten months before the birth of the baby to see if you can rule any of them out.
Strategy 4: Get to know the mother
To speculate about the situations in which the mother may have gotten pregnant, it is important to try and get to know her. What was she doing for a living? How rich were her parents? How old was she when she got pregnant? What were her circumstances? A teenage servant girl who worked on a farm would find herself in different situations than a 40-year-old widow of an innkeeper.
For one of my ancestors who had two children out of wedlock, I investigated if she might have been a prostitute. To maximize your chances of finding the father, it is important not to make any assumptions or judgments and keep an open mind to all possibilities.
An important clue that the mother may have left you could be the baby’s name. Sometimes, unmarried women named the baby after the father, perhaps in kind remembrance or maybe in an attempt to persuade him to take responsibility. Dutch children were usually named after family members, so if the child has a name that does not occur in the mother’s family, that can be a clue to the father’s identity.
For this strategy, it is important that you know all the people in the mother’s family: parents, siblings, aunts, uncles and any close step-relati0ns. If the child is named after one of the maternal grandparents, that explains the name of the child and it does not help to find the father. But if the mother chose a different name, it may well point to the father’s identity. This is particularly interesting if the name is unusual and there was a man in the mother’s life with that name.
Mother shortly after giving birth. Unknown photographer, circa 1885. Credits: Rijksmuseum
Strategy 6: Understand the community
To understand how your female relative might have found herself pregnant, it is important to understand the community she lived in. A few questions you could ask are:
Were there many women who had illegitimate children?
What ages were most women who got pregnant out of wedlock?
Were there many couples who had their first child within nine months of the marriage? If so, premarital sex may have been common. In some regions and social groups, couples waited until the bride was pregnant to get married, to ensure that she was fertile. It is easy to see how a girl could be abandoned before the marriage.
Were there many migrants in the community? The ‘suspect pool’ in a bustling merchant town would look very different from that in a sleeping village in the middle of nowhere.
Was prostitution legal and common? During large parts of the history of the Netherlands, prostitution was legal (it is today). Pregnancy was an occupational hazard for these women.
Answering these questions can be difficult. Perhaps someone is doing a one-place-study in the town where she was living in. Genealogists who do one-place-studies often have a good understanding of local traditions. If not, local genealogical societies might be able to help.
Strategy 7: Find out what was going on
Sometimes local events influenced how people behaved, which could result in pregnancy. A good example is the wave of ‘liberation children’ left behind by allied soldiers in World War II.
In order to understand if local events played a role in the conception, find out what was going on in the town about seven to ten months before the birth. Things to look out for are:
Presence of soldiers, for example an invading army, liberating army, soldiers quartered in houses.
Was there an annual market or fair? This brought in people from several surrounding villages and also would have come with festivities and drinking that may have lowered inhibitions. The mother may have brought a local boy to the fair with her so just because there was an annual fair does not mean that the father had to come from somewhere else.
Was it harvest time? Often, when the harvest was over, the workers celebrated. The father may have been a fellow farm hand.
Criminal behavior, like rapists, in the neighborhood.
Local newspapers are a great source of information for these types of events. Many Dutch newspapers can be found at Delpher.nl. Alternatively, annual reports to the government by the municipality or police reports can shed light on what was going on. Magazines or books by local historical societies can also be a great source of information.
In rare cases, mothers sued the father for child support, for loss of virginity or for breach of promise. These cases can be found in court records.
I once found a 17th century case file before the Court of Gelderland where an unmarried mother sued the father of her child. She details how he seduced her in the garden of the minister for whom she was working as a servant. He did not deny this but brought in a witness who testified that he had also had carnal knowledge of her, casting doubt on her moral character and the paternity of the child. She denied this and produced evidence that the second witness was a first cousin to the father and thus not unbiased. Unfortunately, the verdict has not been preserved but I would say the preponderance of evidence was in her favor. While not all court cases are this informative, they can be helpful to create a list of candidates.
In another court case, a poor servant girl sued the rich farmer she was working for, but the rich farmer said she was involved with the hired hand instead. Without additional evidence it is hard to say who spoke the truth: it is understandable that the married farmer would like to shift blame if he was the father, but it is also possible that the mother chose a richer target to sue than a poor hand who could not provide for her or her child.
It is also worth investigating if the material wealth of the mother improved after the birth, indicating that perhaps she was paid off. I’ve heard several family stories where a poor servant girl is paid off by the rich farmer, who found her a husband to marry and gave them some land or a house. Circumstances that suddenly increase should set off alarm bells that perhaps the biological father may have been rich.
Strategy 9: Research from cradle to grave
If nothing else works, research the entire lives of the mother, child and any potential fathers that you have identified.
Did the potential father ever interact with the mother or the child at a later point? Sometimes fathers remained involved in the children’s lives even if they would or could not legally recognize them. Perhaps the candidate father witnessed records involving the child, or acted as godfather to his (grand)children. I have never seen a case in Dutch records where a father mentions an illegitimate child in his will, but that is easy to check too. Don’t dismiss their earlier lives either. The candidate father may have been named as the father of other illegitimate children, which gives you an idea about his character.
There could also have been an impediment that prevented the father from acknowledging the child at the time of the birth, for example if he was married and was unable to get a divorce. But if he later finds himself a widower, it is possible that he would then marry the mother. He would not be able to legitimize the child, as it was born when he was married, so the fact that he does not acknowledge the child does not say anything about him being the biological father. For any man that the mother marries, it is worthwhile to find out if he was in the picture around the time of conception.
Anybody who wanted to prove the paternity of a child today would turn to DNA. But DNA can even help solve older cases. There are several options.
If you have a candidate for the father, you can test specific people to see if they match. There are two options:
Y-DNA testing. Y-DNA inherits from father to son so you can use this kind of test if the illegitimate child is male and has a strict male-line living descendant. You should then find a strict male-line living descendant of the potential father (or his brother or paternal cousin, as long as they share a ancestor in the strict-male line). If both men agree to test, you can compare their results. If the results match, this is good evidence that your theory is correct. If the results do not match, your theory may be flawed, or there may have been a non-paternal event somewhere down the lines in either of the two men that tested. Y-DNA testing will not help you to determine which of two brothers or paternal cousins is the father but it can help narrow the suspect pool.
Autosomal testing. Autosomes are the non-sex chromosomes that get recombined each generation and half of them gets transmitted to a child. After about four generations, there are no guarantees that two descendants will share DNA so this type of test is especially useful if the illegitimate child was just a couple of generations ago. To use autosomal DNA testing to prove the identity of the father, you need one living descendant of the illegitimate child and one living relative of the potential father, who is not also related to the mother. If they share autosomal DNA this is evidence that it is the correct father.
In these cases, I always research the pedigrees of both test subjects and compare them carefully so I am sure that there aren’t any other shared ancestors that could have contributed to any shared DNA. I want to make sure that any DNA that they share must have come from the alleged father.
With autosomal testing you want to test the oldest generations that you can, as 50% of the autosomal DNA is lost which each generation.
If you do not have a candidate for the father, you want to test descendants to see which people they match. All major DNA testing companies will give you a list of matches: other people who tested with that company and who share DNA with the descendant. If you do not have a candidate for the father, you cannot actively select the people you want to compare with, but you see which persons just happen to match and work from there.
Y-DNA testing. If the illegitimate child is male and you test a strict male descendant, his Y-DNA matches may show several people who share the same surname. This may be the surname of the father too, especially if this matches one of the known men in the mother’s life.
Autosomal DNA testing. You want to test the oldest generation of descendants of the illegitimate child (or the illegitimate child him/herself if still alive and willing to test). To eliminate any matches from the mom’s side, you also want to test the mother or relatives of the mother who are not also descendants of the father. Any people who match the mother’s relatives can be eliminated from the list of matches. For the remaining matches, look for clusters of people that match each other on the same segments: those segments may have come from the unknown father. Then compare trees and see if these people share common ancestors. Since you are depending on the willingness of strangers to share information with you, this can be a long and sometimes frustrating process. But the numbers of people getting tested are growing quickly so there is a great potential for matches out there.
For more information about using DNA testing for genealogical purposes, I refer to Roberta Estes’ DNA Explained blog.
Finding the father of an illegitimate child is one of the hardest genealogical puzzles to solve. Often, the identity of the father will remain unknown but in some cases, enough evidence can be found to create a theory or even prove it.
Rarely are these cases solved by applying just one strategy. Developing good candidates for the father is often the result of extensive research into the records of the mother, child and potential father and acquiring detailed knowledge of the community that they lived in. Combining these traditional research methods with DNA testing can help to prove a theory.
Do you have illegitimate children in your family tree? Have you ever been able to find out who the father was? I would love to hear your strategies so please share them in the comments.
Yvette Hoitink, CG® is a professional genealogist in the Netherlands. She holds the Certified Genealogist credential from the Board for Certification of Genealogists and has a post-graduate certificate in Family and Local History from the University of Dundee. She has been doing genealogy for over 30 years and helps people from across the world find their ancestors in the Netherlands. Read about Yvette's professional genealogy services.
Comments
29 September 2014 at 8:37 pm
I was glad to see DNA as one of the possibilities. Thank you for the kind mention:)
29 September 2014 at 10:33 pm
But of course
Janet Wilson says
7 September 2018 at 4:17 pm
i need help
7 September 2018 at 4:58 pm
If you explain your problem, I might be able to give some advice.
18 September 2018 at 4:21 pm
my mother was born illegitimate 1926 in jersey ,channel islands .my grandmother gave birth previously to a daughter in 1924 in jersey.she died about 3 months old.both girls went to Westaway creche from birth.my grandmother left jersey after the birth of her second child ,she was placed under the care of jersey states. .
21 September 2018 at 3:08 pm
I would recommend doing an autosomal DNA test, as described in the article. If your mother is available for testing, she would be the ideal candidate, but you would also have 25% of your unknown grandfather’s DNA so you or your siblings could test as well. I would also recommend you check the 1921 and 1931 census to see who was living in the area at the time, so you can see if any of these names show up among your DNA matches.
Soremi says
17 January 2021 at 4:26 am
How do I determine if the children with me are mine
17 January 2021 at 10:45 am
You can all take a DNA test, for example as sold by Ancestry: https://dna.ancestry.com.
John says
4 June 2022 at 4:15 pm
I took a DNA Test with ancestry looking for my great grandmother biological father because her death certificate had two name on it that puzzled me one was Fred Mitchell as father mother Sadie Desylver so I did some research and found out her mother name was Sarah Mitchell and father Charles Mitchell but none of my DNA matches lead to the surname Mitchell but I remember my grandmother telling me her mother ran from the Indian reservation and also told me our family surnames so I put the name Frederick Cuffee as my great grandmother father and all my DNA matches showed as an connection to that name with potential ancestors and all my DNA connections when I click shared matches they all share matches with 5 of my second cousins that I know personally but I can’t find any census records or birth certificate for my great grandmother as Frederick being her father other then her death certificate that say Fred Mitchell also she has a sibling by the name of Frederick Mitchell also her mother information I question as well I believe there was an adoption or name change because she had a bunch of children with ages that if was the biological mother she started at age 10
Thomas v.d. Klok says
1 October 2014 at 9:23 pm
The most simple strategy is comparing photos, although it will only help for people living end 19th and 20th century. I matched an illegitimate lined far cousin to our family this way, he got in contact because of vague rumors on descendence from our family. His father was illegitimate but the youth pictures of his father were strikingly similar to those of my full cousin. We descend 4 generations back in paternal line and the father of this man 2 from the same person, my great great grandfather born in 1870.
Another case is 4 generations back, male, in my mother’s pedigree born illegimate in 1845. I came across the possible father in a genealogical article by incidence. The photo I saw was almost exactly identical! It was the village doctor, born in the same year as the mother in the same village, widowed one year before the birth, remarried another woman in the year of birth. There is no common ancestry between the two that could explain the common traits. Descending from this doctor would explain that I have the same profession!
I’d like to investigate both cases molecular in our own lab, the first will be easy. But what Y markers could you recommend me to specifically order primers for? Thanks in advance. Sorry for the length of my comment.
3 October 2014 at 11:54 am
Hi Thomas, thank you for mentioning photos, which can also be a great clue. I don’t have any photos of my family from before 1900 and all my illegitimate ancestors were born before that time, so that’s why it did not occur to me.
I recommend you do a generic Y-test on 67 or 111 markers. You can also start with lower numbers of markers (which are cheaper) and upgrade the test if you have good matches on those lower levels. As far as I understand it, testing specific markers is only useful if you know what you’re looking for, and is always done after a more generic test.
Beth Gatlin says
2 October 2014 at 10:50 pm
I believe that I have identified the father of my illegitimate 3rd-great-grandmother Amanda Russell. It was a complex process that is too long to explain in the comments, but you can read my blog post about it: http://so-many-ancestors.blogspot.com/2014/04/52-ancestors-15-amanda-russell.html Because the identification of a grandparent-grandson relationship was crucial to this process and I had to rule out descent from Amanda’s husband Joseph Tarkington’s side, you may also want to look at the post I wrote about him, which includes my theory about his parentage: http://so-many-ancestors.blogspot.com/2014/04/52-ancestors-13-joseph-tarkington.html
victoria kelly says
3 October 2014 at 1:00 am
i have resolved to never finding the identify of my grandfathers father…..my great grandmother may have told a few people but the information was not passed down..it was in the early 1880’s….all i know is that she hid my grandfather when ever the father came around in her sisters fruit cellar….the only other information i have is that my great grandmother was the belle of east york(a beauty contest), (now toronto ontario) sometime in the late 1870’s and the name keeler of koehler ?? spelling unknown may be involved…i wish i could find this information as i have always felt closer to this side of my family and i truly wanted to bring a happier ending to my family research for all my cousins so that we could go back even further. i wish everyone here luck to finding their ancestors.
Pat Wilson says
6 October 2014 at 6:35 pm
Then what do you do when you discover that the father is John Davies in South Wales and that there are 10 in the same street in the nearest census?
16 October 2014 at 5:53 am
First off, great site.
I have a curious case where i am 99 percent certain the named father is not accurate.
My ggggrandmother, Annigje Oosterhof, was born 19.01.1826.
When registered her father is listed as Geert Roelofs Oosterhof, but the thing is Geert is actually the eldest brother of her mother Jantje Roelofs Oosterhof.
Jantje marries a man named Jan Jans Schans just 3 months later. and most trees show Jan as Annigje’s father but when she marries in 1848 she signs her name as “A Oosterhof” and no father is listed!
The curious bit is that one of the two men who stand as witnesses for Annigje’s birth registration is named “Jan Schans”?
Have you ever come across anything similar?
I assume she is DRC but i have yet to find a baptism.
Records from after her marriage (children’s births, her death, children’s marriages) always name her “Annigje Schans” or “Annigje Jans Schans”.
16 December 2014 at 5:28 pm
I checked the birth record of Annigje and Geert Roelofs Oosterhof is the informant because the child was born in his house. Nowhere in the record does it say that he is the father. The law had specific instructions for who was allowed to report a birth: the father, someone who was present at the birth or the person who owned the house where the birth took place. It seems that Jantje went to her brother’s house to gave birth. The fact that Jan Schans witnessed the registration shows that he was already in their lives at that point.
He did not acknowledge Annigje as his daughter or that would have been noted in the margin of her birth record.
If he had been the father, it would have been logical for him to acknowledge the child as his when he married Jantje. Since he did not, he probably was not the biological father.
Rick Lanting says
25 October 2015 at 11:31 pm
Jan Jans Schans & Jantje Roelofs Oosterhof are my 4 x great grandparents thru their son Roelof Jans Schans. I am one of those who had the incorrect information in my tree. I’m not sure how I missed this but have since corrected it. Thank you.
Sara says
17 October 2014 at 8:17 pm
I recently discovered your blog, and it has been very helpful in knocking down some of the brick walls of my Dutch genealogy!
I was wondering…do you know of any good historical resources that might explain more about the religious customs around marriage and premarital sex? Most of my ancestors came from Groningen (and a few from Friesland), and I’ve noticed that in the mid-1800’s the majority had their first child within a few months of their wedding. I’m assuming this must have been fairly normal in their community, but would like to know more. Any ideas for resources would be helpful, thank you!
Esther says
25 September 2015 at 3:54 pm
I have the same question as Sara. As far as I know, most of my Fries and Groninger ancestors were religious people, so it surprises me that there were so many babies born out-of wedlock or within a few months of marriage. Were there social reasons such as lack of available housing or multiple marriage dates (church vs state wedding) or poverty or ????
Evelyne says
9 April 2018 at 7:48 pm
In the northern part of Holland it was the custom for young lovers to go kweesten or queesten which in practise meant the boy could climb in through the bedroom window of the girl at night and was supposed to sit on de blankets so they had a chance to get to know each other. Family and neighbours were aware and usually consented. As most farmers had a busy day schedule, the night was the only opportunity to get the know each other properly. This might have contributed to children born within a few month of getting married or even out of wedlock?
12 April 2018 at 10:44 am
Kweesten was a tradition in some specific parts of the Netherlands (the Wadden islands, some villages in Overijssel), but was not common in all the northern provinces. From what I know of the custom, it was understood that the couple would mary if the girl got pregnant. In those areas, you may see more “six-month-babies,” but I haven’t noticed higher rates of out-of-wedlock births. That would be an interesting study.
Judy Webster says
10 May 2015 at 1:42 am
In Australia the father of an illegitimate child is often named in one or more series of Court of Petty Sessions records; and many other kinds of records here are also potentially useful. I like the research *strategies* you’ve outlined, and when I update my mini-guide ‘Researching Illegitimate Children’ I will add a link to this post.
12 May 2015 at 11:54 am
Thank you Judy! Interesting to hear about the differences in different countries and that some of the strategies I outlined work in other countries too.
Lana says
23 May 2015 at 5:16 am
Do you know if it was common practice for an illigitamate son to take his mother’s last name in New Netherlands in the early 1800’s? There is an ancestor to whom all Hawaiian Houghtailings are descended from, but that no one can find his parentage. He was born in New York, but all candidates for a legitimate biological father with the same last name come to a dead end. My hunch is he was born out of wedlock, but am not sure if he would have taken his mother’s last name or if his mother would have given him the father’s last name. It would also explain why he left his ancestral home (New York) to seek his fortune, as he may have been less likely to inherit land etc.
24 May 2015 at 8:52 am
Yes, illegitimate children usually took their mother’s last name. But illegitimate children were quite uncommon. Another, andmute likely explanation, is that he went be a patronymic early in life and only adopted a last name later.
Lana says
24 May 2015 at 1:52 pm
Thank you, that is very helpful information. In the US, most Houghtailings, Houghtalings and Hotalings can trace their ancestry to one orphan who came to New York in the 1600s and later adopted the last name. It was interesting to see the concept of patronymics in that case. In your opinion, how common is the Houghtailing name in the Netherlands (on a scale of 1-10, 1 being very common, 10 being rare)? I’m wondering if it was likely that other Houghtailings came over to the same area in New York between 1650-1800.
24 May 2015 at 2:06 pm
10: never heard it before. It could have been an Americanization of a Dutch name, or the name could have a different origin. Many people from other countries, including the Baltic, settled in New Netherland.
The archives of the Mayors of Amsterdam at the Amsterdam Court Archives have lists of orphans to be sent to the New World. It might be worthwhile to consult these lists. As far as I know, these lists have not been transcribed yet.
Lana says
30 May 2015 at 2:26 pm
Thank you, that is very helpful information. I have found his first and middle name on documents regarding the program to send almshouse children in Amsterdam to the American colonies, and on a ship’s passenger list. It appears he didn’t take up the last name until he was well into his 20s. I will consider the archives you mentioned. Thank you again!
Julie says
21 January 2016 at 11:53 pm
On my ancestor’s birth certificate, no father’s name is given and the mother gives a fake name Thomasina Wilson. Somebody else with the same family tree branch thought this was a hint that the father’s name was Thomas Wilson. My ancestor had the surname Wilson on the 1881 census when she was four years old, though when her mother married when she was seven years old she took the surname of the man her mother married, who may or may not have been her biological father. Both men were seamen, and the mother had lived from childhood near the naval centre of Greenwich, London.
nora douly says
8 February 2016 at 6:05 am
Hi, I am an illigatamate child I am 69 years old and would love to find my father or siblings if I have any, I know his name and that he was a pilot of a piper cub plane that’s about the info that I have where would be the best place to start and I know where my mother was when she got pregnant
5 April 2016 at 10:40 am
I recommend you contact the Search Squad group on Facebook. They specialize in helping people find their birth family.
Anna says
9 February 2016 at 7:14 am
Thankyou for the article and all the following comments. My family has a rumoured illegitimate son of the crown-prince of a European country. The mother was married off to a palace gardener and ‘removed’ to the country the committed suicide some time after giving birth. Just family lore, but supposedly someone in the family has the written account (who wrote it, I’m not sure). The child, however, was sickly and not strong enough to gain employment as a farmhand, but was educated through out school and university to become a teach, allegedly paid for by the palace. Although there really is no physical resemblance between the current king and my family now we are all in our 40’s – 60’s) there are surprising resemblances of the current king and one of my brothers when they were both in their early teens. How would I go about researching palace bookkeeping records to see if the account of the education and of my great-something-grandmother and grandfathers’ employment?
5 April 2016 at 10:39 am
What a fascinating family story, I can understand why you want to learn more. How you would go about researching depends on the country and time. In the Netherlands, the Royal House Archives are open to the public by appointment, but recent records are closed. I cannot give you advice about other countries.
Bobbie says
29 March 2016 at 7:46 pm
My grandmother had an iligitimate child my uncle. My nan spoke of a robert Irving born Scotland. Abt 1917 give or take 3 yrs plus . Apparently he came to Birmingham looking for work about 1938 /9 . I can’t find him on any cencus or electoral roll where my nan lived. My uncle life ambition was to get this clarified . I read all your article with enthusiasm and will have another attempt to find out . This is good research hints . I find the generation then are so tight lipped and this was neve spoke about. I did ask questions but looked at me in horror that was my late nans sister. Maybe she didn’t know . Hidden secret. My uncle took the surname of her husband who she had separated from after learning of his bigamist ways.
Benjamin says
5 April 2016 at 2:35 pm
Last year I posted a story about my illegitimate 2xgreat gran but it has not appeared yet on this comments section. About Thomas Roberts and Mary Ann Walder in 1863.
20 April 2016 at 4:07 pm
I do not see your story in the unpublished comments. I sometimes delete stories about living people, but not for people who were born in the 1800s so I do not know what happened.
Benjamin says
20 April 2016 at 5:51 pm
Oh OK. I shall show the story again.
On the 31st December 1863, my 2xgreat gran, Kate, was born. She died in 1943. She was the illegitimate daughter of Mary Ann Walder, an unmarried woman, daughter of the village wheelright in Sussex, England. She and Thomas Roberts, her soon to be husband moved away from the area shortly after the birth. The baby was then baptised in November 1864 as daughter of Thomas and Mary ann Roberts. Thos and Mary Ann wed in July 1864 at the same church they baptised the baby. At the time of Mary Ann Walder’s pregnancy Thomas was a servant, footman, and he was still married to his first wife Esther who died on the 14th Nov 1863 of a long illness. The death cert sais “several years”. Seems Thomas was seeing Mary Ann before his wife died. Also Thomas’ mum was into needlework as was Kate and her children. Also there is a good physical resemblance to Kate’s children and Thomas’ daughter Ann (born 1851) by his first marriage to Esther. Ann would be their half aunty. I have yet to find a photo of Kate but a distant cousin has pics of Thomas’s eldest daughter. Also Kate’s younger sister has very good facial resemblances to Kate’s children. Photographic evidence is a good thing.
Sarah Brightbill says
7 April 2016 at 7:45 pm
I desperately want to find my birth father. I am 24 years old and have a daughter of my own. My birth certificate has my father listed as unknown. I’ve tried talking to my mom about it, but her story keeps changing or she just doesn’t answer me… I’ve tried searching the Internet for answers, but I keep coming up empty… is there a place where I can post my story so that others can read it and perhaps point me in the right direction? Please help me, I just really want to find out who he is…
20 April 2016 at 4:05 pm
I recommend you get in touch with the DNA Detectives Facebook group. They are specialized in helping people find their birth family.
cd says
7 April 2016 at 11:22 pm
my biological mother was born illegitimately, as was her elder sibling, and, apparently, they both had different fathers. they were both born in london during ww2. the elder sibling uses the mother’s surname on her birth certificate, eg if my grandmother was called grace morris (she wasn’t) then the elder sibling’s name was put down as baby morris. my mother had the name, “jones” on her birth certificate, and i believe that ‘jones’ was commonly put as a surname for fatherless children. to my knowledge, she never used that surname, and used my grandmother’s maiden name, and then her stepfather’s name, sometimes, after my grandmother (re)married. the family rumour is that she was made pregnant by a visiting american gi, but i don’t know if that’s a romanticised idea – there are a lot of name changes and retelling of the truth in that family, even nowadays. i had three uncles who all used names different to their birthnames…!
Carol B says
5 October 2017 at 5:55 pm
How do you know if maybe the fathers name was not Jones. My father who was in England during ww2 is named jones and that was a common Canadian surname.
Anna says
19 July 2016 at 11:27 pm
Great article with some very useful tips. It has spurred me to re-vist my great great grandfather and see if I can discover anything about his biological father thank you
7 August 2016 at 5:23 am
My husbands grandfather was born illegitimate in 1883. Although she was from Nijkerk she had the baby in Voorthurien (not sure this is the correct spelling) or why she traveled there. I have managed to get a copy of his birth record filed by the midwife but there is no mention of the father. He was given the name Gijsbert van Someren which was her maiden name and the name of ther first husband who died nine years earlier. Gijsbert was cared for by one of her daughters from the first marriage until 1885 when she married Cornelious Herman ten Hoven. After Cornelious’ death in 1908 Gijsbert left the Netherlands for the United states and never spoke of the Netherlands again. We had my husbands DNA done in hopes of finding a possible birth father but after reading hour posts that seems very slim at best. Is there any hope? My husband is a direct male decendant and there is a genetic disorder called familial tremors which his grandfather, father and aunt all had as well as my husband. He is the last of his line and would love to know his family tree!
Destiny says
3 October 2016 at 4:30 pm
My mother was claimed to have been raped when I was conceived. I have a strong feeling she may be lying and I believe my family is helping her keep her lies.. if people can trace your roots from where your family came. Can’t they track to a certain man?
28 December 2016 at 4:35 pm
Thank you for this useful blog post. My 4x greatgrandfather is an unknown father. After her marriage, Trijntje Robijns Lijker, as a widow, gave birth to an illegitimate daughter, who married a Van der Heide (my direct male ancestor). The midwife, Grietje Johannes, her (former) mother-in-law, registered the daughter in the civil registry. She was named after her mother: Trijntje Lijker (*1833, Harlingen).
Trijntje Lijker her second son is named Melle, and all Van der Heides named Melle (quite a lot) are descendants of this branch. That’s mainly why I want to discover who this man was.
In her marriage, she had 8 children, the eldest son (*1822, Harlingen) was named Melle as well. I have no clue why, because according to the naming conventions, I’d expect a Melle in the ancestors, but I found none.
I will use some of your above mentioned tips & tricks as searching the baptism records. Are there any other suggestions you could give?
Here is my relationship to my unknown 4 x greatgrandfather:
Bob Zimensky says
2 January 2017 at 9:02 am
So, here’s one from the other way-round: What if a man were trying to find out if he had a child somewhere that had not been acknowledged. I spent many years as a very promiscuous drunk. Somewhere on the order ot 300 sexual partners, so statistically, there’s a good chance there’s one or more out there. I am a different person now, and would like to find and make those things right, if possible. Any way you can think of to find out? Is there any sort of registry for people in my position?
2 January 2017 at 10:06 am
If there are looking for their birth father, they will probably take a DNA test in the hope that he or a close family member tested too. I would stay at Ancestry (http://dna.ancestry.com), which has the largest user base and is the first place where most people test now.
30 January 2017 at 3:44 pm
Thank you for the article. Hermen van de Waal, my 4xggfather, died in 1814 in Maurik. The age given means he was born in 1743. The Ingen parish register has:- trouwakte 11-27 Nov 1774 Hermen van de Waal jm geb en won te Ingen Margereta Tukker jd geb te Zoelen won te Ommeren ondertrouwd and getrouwd te Ommeren. There is no surviving baptism for Hermen. His parents are supposed to be Arien van de Waal and Ijda van de Valentijn, but they married 14 may 1747 in Maurik. Although the Dutch naming pattern was strict Hermen and Margereta had no son called Arien. Their first son was named Dirk and Arien and Ijda were sponsors. I also have a document (24 august 1778) which lists what happened to Arien’s messuage when he died and he left his property between Ijda his wife and Jan Willemsen and Jantje van Hoeven, Dirk van de Waal, and Gerrit de Bruine and Geertruyt van de Waal. Nothing for Hermen. Arien’s father was named Willem. There are Hermens in the van de Valentijn family further back. I have tested my brother’s Y-DNA. He is I-M253 but the only matches (2) are very distant indeed.
Michael McCauslin says
3 July 2017 at 10:11 pm
Thanks for this post. I used several of these strategies by chance as I began researching my family tree in an attempt to identify my great grandmother’s father. My mother had such a close relationship with her grandmother, Retta Epley born in 1884, that I wanted to find out more to share with my mom. Amazingly, a simple Google search of Retta’s mother’s name, Mary Epley, led me to a county court record of a bastardy case she had filed in Mansfield, Ohio against a man named Woods Rose Mitchell. There was no verdict; the record stated that Mary had not appeared on the assigned court date, but checking census records, I discovered that in 1880, four years before Retta’s birth, Woods Rose Mitchell and Mary Epley were neighbors living with their respective families. Further research revealed a great deal about these two families and the further separate lives of Mary and Woods, each of whom married different spouses and raised extensive families. Retta was taken into the Children’s Home at the age of seven and indentured to a local family until the age of 16. (That’s another very compelling story too long to go into here…) The only additional bit of a clue I found that could link Mr. Mitchell as Retta’s father is the name he gave to the last child born with the woman he did marry, a girl who died shortly after birth or was stillborn. That girl was given the name Mary Etta. Possibly a coincidence but perhaps a remembrance to the child he knew he fathered years before. I have had several DNA matches with descendents of the Mitchells, but never a match with whom I didn’t share other possible ancestors, so the quest for certainty goes on. I will try some of the other strategies you describe to see what else I can discover.
Dixie says
27 November 2017 at 6:02 am
My father was born an illigitamate child in rural Alabama in 1928. He was told once as a child the name of his father which matched the name on his birth certificate. I spent quite a lot of time researching that name but really didn’t get too far. There was also a new birth certificate issued when Dad was 17 but cited his maternal grandfather as his Father. When I came across a 2-3rd cousin in my sisters results that didn’t fit anywhere I found the match only listed her father’s name and her mother’s married name and that’s all. I finally found her mother’s maiden name of Davidson on an obit. (I find obits often include maiden names of wives and children as well as the children’s spouses.) I then put together a basic tree on the match’s mother’s side after I came up with nothing on her father’s side. Next I found 8 undetermined dna matches in Ancestry.com’s “New Ancestor Discoveries “. that plugged right into that 2-3rd cousin’s tree. I am finding more and more of our matches that fit into that tree. I finally got my brother’s Y dna results that showed Davidson as the surname.
The prime person I have found worked in the same cotton mill and lived close to grandma but is 23 years older than her. He was 40, she was 17, Not unheard of. All the Davidsons of this line lived 90 min. from Grandma when she got pregnant except this one . Of course a family member could have visited. Now to start writing emails to matches. This is a great article and I just thought my experience might help someone. I am always open to any help that is offered.
Karin Harms says
19 December 2017 at 9:13 pm
My question is about the note on a marriage record “Erk 1 kind”. A translation tool gave me the translation “Recognize 1 child.” In this case, the mother & father had a child in January and were married in February of the same year. They are both listed as his parents on the child’s birth civil registration. Does the note on the marriage record mean that the child has been legitimized?
22 December 2017 at 3:25 pm
It does!
Trina Bauer says
17 January 2018 at 4:32 am
I have this issue in reverse. Any tips would be well appreciated. My great uncle was in Frankfurt Germany during WW2. He fathered a child there. I have the first name of the woman but that is it. I have posted this info on an American Facebook page that helps people who are searching for the same sort of situation. I have also put this information on the German Facebook that is looking for “GI” babies. I have taken the ancestry DNA test. Still no hits. No one that is living recalls the name and most know nothing about it. I have one letter from this lady to my grandmother but nothing else. Also no address on the envelope.
Yolette Stewart says
2 March 2018 at 1:34 pm
I have been researching one of my Dutch ancestors, Jantje de Roos (1829-1884). She had two children legitimately to her husband Diemer Visser (1827-1855) who died in the same year her second child, a daughter was born. These two children were named Jan (1852-1933) and Minke (1855-1890) respectively. Jantje then did not have children for about ten years. She then had two boys, Matthijs de Roos and Rein de Roos. Rein de Roos (1867-1917) is one of my direct ancestors and of course, I do not know who his father is.
Most other people have listed on family trees Diemer Visser as the father but this is clearly incorrect due to the timing of his death and the fact that the boys carry the mother’s surname. (Jan and Minke carry Diemer’s surname.)
As I don’t read Dutch very well I did my best to transcribe the names of persons who appeared as witnesses in the birth thinking clues might be there but couldn’t read one of the names very well. The same names appear on the birth certificates of both of the boys:
2. Bernadus van Weenen van Noord (an unusual surname, and I can only find only one such person on genealogieonline.nl born in 1826, no death date or family listed)
4. Dirk (?) Seussen (?) – this one is unclear too
Given that the same names occur on both the boys’ certificates, Jantje must have been living in that household and known to the family and peoples there. When I researched Sytske van der Wal I found she was the second (childless) wife of a man whose only daughter had died young so the scope for unusual liaisons is high there.
I realised that since Rein was able to marry later in life (Matthijs did not, it seems) the mother must have been given reasonable finances somewhere in the equation to care for the boys.
There are no notes on paternity in side columns, which possibly suggests the relationship was adulterous (?), and which suggests the father would not or could not recognise the children legitimately.
With whatever tactic I have taken I have not yet been able to locate the father of Rein and Matthijs; I think Jantje worked hard to keep the paternity unknown. I am also hampered by the fact that I don’t read Dutch very well. Are there any useful sites of clues you might be able to offer me at all Yvette?
5 March 2018 at 4:31 pm
The first thing would be to fully analyze the birth records and look at the informants and the notes in the margin. The article lays out other strategies: looking for the baptismal record, doing DNA testing, researching the potential fathers. Please contact me if you would like a proposal for me to do this research for you.
Yolette Stewart says
7 March 2018 at 5:16 am
Thank you so much for your response – I do appreciate it.
Yes I did read the article very closely and have tried much of this.
If you were to research the matter for me, how much would it cost in AUD ?
I am not sure what I can afford but I might see if I can save my pennies.
Regards,
Cyndi Lasala says
3 April 2018 at 4:24 pm
Hi Yvette, I have been researching for my grandmother’s biological family since 1989. She was left at The New York Foundling Hospital Orphanage at age 2 weeks by a woman who said she was her mother. The orphanage told me the woman only gave the baby’s name as Alice O’Connor and she was born Dec. 22, 1902 in Metropolitan Hospital in New York City. She supposedly did not divulge her or the fathers name. Alice remained there until 1905 when she was sent to Texas on the orphan train to a family who eventually adopted her in 1911. I have searched & there are no birth records for an Alice O’Connor around this date in 1902 -03. The orphanage had her baptized & sent me a copy of her baptism record. I did the Ancestry DNA test in Dec 2017 & some results came back connecting me to a family that has been in New York since the 1800’s. There is a picture of the man & woman I suspect who could be either of her parents. The family connection is through an Edward Logue who is in his 80’s, also his sister, her daughter & nephew are extremely high confidence matches as are some 1st cousins of theirs. The grandparents of Edward are the ones I suspect could be the father or the mother of Alice. There is a picture of both & their grandmother Sarah favors Alice a lot. Sarah & Edward (the grndfthr) didn’t marry until 1905. The family has no knowledge of any illegitimate child & I can’t find any kind of O’Connor connection with them. The centamorgans are 95 across 5 DNA segments between Edward (the grandson) & myself. Is there any way to figure out if or which one could be Alice’s parent? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance.
4 April 2018 at 8:37 pm
If I understand you correctly, your theory is that your DNA match Edward Logue is your half first cousin once removed (his grandparent is your great-grandparent). At 95 cM shared DNA, chances are slim that he is indeed your half 1C1R; the relationship is likely more distant, as you can see in this chart. I recommend you examine the shared matches you have with him to try and pinpoint the line you both share. Also, if you could get other family members of yours to test, especially from the oldest generation, that would be helpful since you all inherited different segments from your grandmother.
Cyndi Lasala says
4 April 2018 at 8:54 pm
That’s the problem. My grandmother, dad, and all his siblings are deceased. Only myself and my cousins are alive. One of my older cousins did her DNA and the results came back about the same as mine with Edward. Is there any other way around it? Thanks for your help!
6 April 2018 at 3:42 pm
You could also try to test other relatives of Edward, preferably of an older generation, to narrow down the line where you share ancestors on.
Cyndi Lasala says
4 April 2018 at 9:42 pm
Also, I forgot to say, on Ancestry it has Edward & I listed as 3rd cousins, & on My Heritage it has us listed as 1st cousins 2 x removed. On chromosome 4, Edward, his sister his niece and myself all share a large exact square of 34.61 cm with 4342 matching SNPS. What would this mean? Thanks!
6 April 2018 at 3:42 pm
What is the total number of centimorgans (cM) you share? That is usually the best predictor of the relationship. You can use the Shared cM tool to see the likelihood of the different relationships.
Ailbhe says
17 April 2018 at 2:13 am
I came across your article a while ago and it’s offered me lots of help in my genealogy research so far.
One area I’m still struggling in is trying to identify my great-grandmothers biological father.
My great-grandmother, Irene M Green (1912-2015), was born illegitimately to Elizabeth Green in Birmingham, England. It’s no secret in my family that she was born out of wedlock, as it was my gran herself who told me, but no one has ever been told who the father might be.
I ordered her birth certificate and it’s confirmed for me that no father is listed on there either – the only thing that stood out for me was that the address my great-gran was born at, as it was different to the address that her mother, Elizabeth, was living at less than a year before with her family on the 1911 census. I looked up the address on the birth certificate and found out she was born in a workhouse, leading me to think she may have been kicked out of the house for getting pregnant. Since then my search has become stagnant. I was just wondering if had any advice to offer that might give me an idea that I haven’t thought of yet?
Thanks in advance for your thoughts!
18 April 2018 at 9:28 am
Have you done DNA testing yet? That may give you some clues about possible candidates. Also the workhouse records may show when she arrived, which should tell you if she was living there when she got pregnant. If she lived there, you could check the other workhouse residents to see if any of them look familiar based on your DNA results. It may require you to build trees for the others in the workhouse at the same time.
Macey says
25 April 2018 at 6:03 pm
I’d first like to start by saying your site has been incredibly helpful in my genealogical search. My paternal grandmother’s family originated from Holland and I’ve recently been working on trying to find my 4X great grandfather’s father. Jelte Huizinga (born 23 November 1828) was one of five illegitimate children born to Jantje Pieters Huizinga (also known as Jantje Hendriks Huizinga). I’ve looked at all of the children’s birth records and none of them state a father. I have a few ideas of what may be the case but I’m not sure. My first idea is that her step-father Pieter Romkes Roepstra is the father. He’s the informant on her first child’s birth record, he’s significantly younger than her mother (by 17 years), her fifth child’s name is Omke (which is nowhere else in her family tree to my knowledge) and he died a year after her last child was born. Of course this is just speculation but it would also explain why Jantje went by Jantje Pieters Huizinga instead of Jantje Hendriks Huizinga after a while. My other idea is that she was a prostitute. From what I’ve seen, five illegitimate children is rare. Jantje was never married to my knowledge and the first three birth records say she was unemployed. Where do you think I should start next? I’ve looked at birth records for all of the children, her mother’s death record, Pieter’s death record, marriage records of all the children, and I’ve tried looking for church records but have been out of luck so far. Thank you!
27 April 2018 at 10:02 pm
Have any of the descendants taken a DNA test? Also, the fact that he was the informant is not in itself cause for suspicion. In the absence of a father, regulations required that the person attending the birth (midwife, doctor) or the owner of the house where the child was born went to the registrar. So the could have been acting in his capacity as head of the household. Neither are the patronymics strange; if he raised her like a father you would expect some records to use his name as her patronymic. I agree with you that five illegitimate children is rare and if she was living at home the whole time, the stepfather should definitely be considered as a possible candidate.
I have encountered a similar situation where the stepfather married an older woman and then had a relationship with several of her daughters. One of them was a minor and he went to jail for improper conduct with a minor. DNA proved he was also the father of another daughter’s child. Researching the stepfather, including court records, may sheds some more light on his character.
Macey says
30 April 2018 at 3:05 pm
Thank you for your reply! The only reason I question the patronymics is because the step father came into her life when she was 17. She also named her child Omke (presumably after him) many many years after her mother died and he would’ve been out of her life. I haven’t taken DNA tests yet and am thinking about having my great aunts take them since they would be closer descendants. I’m not able to find many court records for Groningen online. The family search unindexed records are difficult for me to understand but I’ll keep searching!
Macey says
1 May 2018 at 12:10 am
Also, I just ran into something new in a marriage certificate. On the marriage record for one of Jantje’s son it says, “bruidegom niet door moeder erkend” which i assume translates to “Groom not recognized by mother”. I’ve never seen this note before. What does it mean?
22 June 2018 at 3:09 pm
In a birth record of an illegitimate child, the informant is not one of the parents. To prevent fraud, the mother is later required to register that she acknowledges the child. This is often done years later, for example around the time a child has to go into the military or before the child is married. If the mother fails to do that, the marriage record of the child would mention that the mother did not recognize the child.
Doris Waggoner says
7 July 2018 at 5:07 am
How fascinating, and useful.
In 1798, in Schenectady, NY, my ggg grandmother, then 17, had an illegitimate daughter. She recorded this birth in her Dutch New Testament, just by first name. Sheh recorded the surnames of the rest of her children, after her marriage. I’ve always wondered if this was a consensual relationship, a rape, or something between. Research shows that in 1800, 1/3 of mothers in New York were unmarried at the birth of their first child. A good genealogist found the child’s baptismal record for me, with the father’s name **upside down.** I was told this was the “code” for an illegitimate child. The other clue was that the child’s name did not fit the names in the mother’s family, either back in time, or forward. But the name was that of the father’s mother, following the naming convention of the time. If my ancestor thought that would encourage him to marry her, she was wrong, as he married someone else between the birth and the baptism.
The person who verified the child’s father for me searched for her in later records, and couldn’t find her anywhere. She assumed the child didn’t live long. And even though the child was given the name of the grandmother, in 1800 there were at least 6 men in Schenectady with the same name given in the baptismal record, who were of about the right age to be the father.
Given those circumstances, would DNA be of any help in trying to verify that the man we think was the father really was? Who would I test? My brother’s been tested, as has a male third cousin on that side. They and several others in my generation have all done autosomal testing. It never occurred to any of us until I read your splendid article that DNA might be helpful. Would it? Is it too many generations back? Nobody’s still alive in a generation older than we are.
Thanks for all your work,
Doris Waggoner says
7 July 2018 at 5:15 am
The farthest back we’ve gotten in matches is two generations before my ggg grandmother. We do have several thousand total matches, many of them showing little or no connection. The man I’m looking for may be there if I’d be more patient and go through the whole list! Would it be worth it? My understanding of DNA and what it tells me isn’t very complete, I admit!
12 July 2018 at 2:23 pm
Chances of sharing DNA with that particular ggg grandfather are small. I would recommend testing as many descendants as you can from that illegitimate daughter, preferably from different branches. Any shared DNA between them was likely from their parents. You could use DNA Painter (http://www.dnapainter.com) to try and map different segments of your DNA to different ancestors to see if you can isolate pieces that came from that line. You can do the same for other descendants and then try to make sense of your matches. But since it’s so long ago, that is a long shot.
22 July 2018 at 7:19 am
We have been attempting to trace my friends bio father. She was born in 1941. She is mainly interested in what he was like are there siblings, etc.
It appears the Sur name she was given of her father is incorrect as we can not locate the three names together anywhere. However we have located the first two names with a different Sur name. Aside from the name issues there are quite a few other things that match. We located this info in 2016. We did talk to the owner of the Ancestry site then and in 2017 and 2018. Once she got her DNA results back stating he is either close family or at least 1st cousin. The man stopped responding. We have asked for a picture as we have one with her mother to compare. Question, what other avenues do we have in trying to prove this is her father and the manager of the site I believe is her 1/2 brother ??
22 July 2018 at 7:27 am
How many cM of DNA do they share? You can see that by going to the match’s page and then clicking the (i) button after the predicted relationship. Half siblings share an average of 1700 cM. If the match is on GedMatch.com you can compare there in more detail.
Kate says
25 September 2018 at 6:27 am
Hello We recently found my teenage Grandsons father. It took about 18months by DNA and it was a match to a third cousin to find the father.
I am now on a quest to find my Husbands Great Grandfather. My husband was born in the Netherlands . His Grandfather was born in Utrecht in 1887 no father listed.
I just found out this week by checking records the Grandfather had a sister and no father listed there. The sister was born in 1885 and passed away in 1885.
My husbands Great Grandfather (not biological is believed) married my husbands biological Great Grandmother. On their marriage certificate in 1896 it legitimatized my husbands Grandfather. Seeing the parents were married about 9 years after he was born it seems likely the father was not biological.
The supposed Great Grandfather wasn’t Dutch so his name is very unusual for Holland.
We are trying to find out if the Great Grandfather actually adopted the boy or the marriage legitimatized it ? As you say the notation is on the marriage certificate
26 September 2018 at 12:40 pm
If a child is legitimized at the time of the marriage of his mother, there won’t be adoption papers because the child then had two legal parents. There would be no court documents for a legitimization at the time of the marriage. All that was required was for the bride and groom to acknowledge the child as their own. It would then be recorded in the marriage record and a note would be made in the margin of the birth record. The only way for there to be adoption papers is if someone else would adopt the child, but there would be a note in the margin of the birth record for that too.
Kevin Harper says
21 December 2018 at 1:02 pm
Interesting read. The DNA testing is freakishly accurate in its results and it’s conclusive in terms of determining paternity. Here is a great website to compare the various prices and deals offered for the direct-to-consumer DNA testing kits in the market. https://www.dnatestreview.org/
Hope Powell says
13 December 2019 at 3:32 pm
My grandfather was born in New York and has his mother’s last name. I am presuming he is illegitimate. I have a birth record that tells his parent’s names and lists them as being Italian. Through DNA I have found his mother but not his father. My grandfather was put up for adoption so it is all a little tricky. I read your article and love all your hints. The father’s last name was listed as Laqua and I can only find one in the entire US. I’m pretty certain this is not the father. I have done name searches in Ancestry, Family Search, My Heritage and GEDmatch. I really don’t know where else to check.
28 January 2020 at 3:15 am
I have been spell bound, reading about all these family searches, indeed blood is thicker than water! Glad i know quite a bit about my fathers and my mothers side of the family, but i want to know MUCH more! It gets so much more complicated with each generation, 4 more grandparents added… Who shall i follow into the hazy distant past.
11 May 2020 at 10:47 am
lol, Men in my mother live, Mum worked Gilze Rijn airflied , when the Canadians were their
had connection with the princess Irene Brigade , uncle John was member.
time 1945 don’t think DNA would but I have photo of him, and a name , so do the candians hold photo id`s of there personale
Kathryn says
11 May 2020 at 2:30 pm
My husbands Grandfather was born in Utrecht to a Dutch mother . The Great Grandmother married a man from Croatia when the child was 8 years old.
The marriage certificate from Amsterdam has added it legitamises the marriage . Of course if we find a descendant of the biological father DNA would have to confirm.
Kathryn says
2 July 2020 at 5:09 pm
All your tips helped find my Husbands Great Grandfather about a week ago. He was found living with my husbands Great Grandmother but they never married.
Carol White says
12 September 2020 at 9:58 pm
My great grandmother was born Jane Page in 1841 to Edith Page and Alexander Page in St Catherines Ontario Canada. When she was 25 she had an illegitimate girl and named her Louella “Hattie or Hettie Page. Her parents raised Hettie as theirs even though they were in their sixties. Jane later married Leslie Veranus Garner and had another girl, my grandmother, Mary Georgina Garner in 1880. Jane died in 1882. I am not sure who raised my grandmother. No man ever stepped forward legally to claim Hettie as his. My thoughts lean towards Jane’s father, Alexander, to be the father of Hettie. No one in the family will speak of her and when I try her married name for research I and told to stop searching. Hettie married a Goodwillie that I have been told was from Austrailia, Can find no real lead on her….any help will be really appreciated.
Kerry Nairn says
29 March 2021 at 1:00 pm
My Great Grandfather was born illegitimate in Jan 1871, Glasgow , Scotland.His Name on the birth cert is David John Nairn, and his Mothers name is Mary Ann Nairn.Mary Ann was actually born about 1835 in County Sligo, Ireland.In 1871 she was a servant in Glasgow.
Interestingly, on the March 1871 Scots census, she is listed as unmarried living with several others including a 3 month old Child named David John McCallum, so from this im assuming the Fathers surname was McCallum ?
Im not so interested in finding the Father, but i want to Find Mary Anns Father ! , ie Nairn. (my 3rd great grandfather) I have other records of Nairns pre 1835 in County Sligo. If i did a Y Dna Test would this show the Nairn line ? ie , Mary Annes Father & further back ?
FAN Strategy Adapted | My Dutch Family History says:
17 October 2021 at 6:18 pm
[…] Hoitink, “How to find the father of an illegitimate child,” Dutch Genealogy (https://www.dutchgenealogy.nl/how-to-find-the-father-of-an-illegitimate-child/: 17 October […]
Leave a Reply to Hope Powell Cancel reply
Notify me of follow-up comments by email.
Δ
Yvette Hoitink, CG® is a professional genealogist in the Netherlands who helps people find their Dutch ancestors. She is certified by the Board for Certification of Genealogists and has a post-graduate certificate in Family and Local History from the University of Dundee.
Do you need a genealogist in the Netherlands to help you with your research?
Please read what Yvette can do for you.
Sign up to receive weekly email updates with news about Dutch Genealogy!
| 71,968 |
Accommodation
Events
April 4, 2022 November 10, 2022
Posted by admin in Uncategorized
International marriages are raising in popularity. Although this kind of trend is normally not new, it has only grown nowadays. Marriages among look at this web-site foreign men and foreign females can produce better opportunities for children. However , the process of finding a foreign bride could be expensive. For anyone who is interested in finding a foreign new bride, consider becoming a member of a popular online dating site.
When dating another bride can be fun and interesting, you should take into account that it will take period. You may need to hang on months prior to you find the proper match. And not only that, you may find that things may work out finally. If you’re seriously interested in finding a international wife, however , you’ll need to knuckle down. After all, another bride puts her friends and family first. They have likely that she do not ever have any second thoughts after the marriage ceremony, but you can generally try harder. You’ll also reach learn about her country and culture, which may be a great aid in the long run.
Girls from Colombia are recognized for being honest. Their spontaneity is also incredibly appealing. And they are generally not too conceited or strong. If they’re not, you are not going to get a lot of women. It also facilitates if a man is usually educated and has a steady job. A guy with these kinds of qualities is a superb match to get a woman. However make sure he is able to fulfill the expectations of a woman ahead of you enroll in a pub.
The number of international women seeking marriage is increasing, and they’re desperate to communicate with American men. You will discover thousands of these kinds of women longing to meet a Western guy. A good international bride definitely will build a solid and healthier relationship using a man from the West. With the help of a foreign star of the event service, you are able to connect with 1000s of women all over the world. Then, you are able to choose the right you for you. It’s difficult to find a foreign woman, but it really can be a fulfilling experience.
With regards to choosing a international bride, you should consider what your desires are intended for the marriage. A lady from China will likely be very demanding and can be difficult to adjust to in the beginning. But , for anyone who is a man who enjoys obstacles, you’ll find that China women are great partners and loving mothers.
Foreign birdes-to-be have been an increasing trend in Japan for a long time, and the numbers convey more than doubled since the 1972s. While most overseas brides range from Philippines, several come from Korea and Taiwan. The effects of this craze have been mixed. A few distant areas are becoming popular pertaining to foreign wedding brides.
There are many different reasons why foreign girls prefer international husbands. The first component is the ethnic differences. The way of life of their region is different from that of European countries. There are different traditions and values. Some women of all ages may find that easier to marry a foreign person than a local. Another consideration is range. If you decide to get married to a foreign woman, you should satisfy get to know her and build a romance. Moreover, it could possibly cost you time to travel to the of your choice.
Despite the initiatives of government agencies to protect international brides, many victims remain susceptible to predators and abuse. Even though IMBRA may be a welcome alter, there are many threats still facing foreign birdes-to-be. For instance, foreign brides will be vulnerable to domestic abuse and sexual exploitation. The IMBRA does not fully protect these types of women via abuse.
| 4,028 |
you are interested in purchasing an old building for commercial use or maybe your business is in an old building that needs a serious upgrade, you will need a specialized crew of professionals to make it happen.
23Mar
by Admin brh_admin
No Problem with Certified Electrician
Decorating your home and the outdoors is an extremely popular activity starting in about October. October and fall weather tends to be very wet.
| 421 |
Coach Mike Hamm. Ad Hoc Adult Learn-to-Swim Programming Committee Member 2020-Present. Club: Kroc Masters, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Along with Bill Brennar, Coach Hamm also teaches certification Levels 1 & 2 with USMS.
U.S. Masters Swimming 2020 Coach of the Year Award
Please nominate someone in our LMSC whom you consider worthy of this award.
Since 1986, the Coach of the Year award has been presented at the U.S. Masters Swimming annual convention to a USMS registered coach who demonstrates excellence in five areas: club and individual accomplishments, publications, contributions to U.S. Masters Swimming and the LMSC, letters of support, and long-term contributions to Masters Swimming.
Here a list of past award recipients.
Address any questions to Chair, Coaches Committee, Kenny Brisbin.
Nominations are due July 1.
Healthy Daily Habits for Success as a Masters Coach
Being a Masters coach is more than just providing workouts. Coaching is its own lifestyle that requires you to be well versed in many different skills. You have to be able to mentor new swimmers, coach experienced swimmers, run a business, manage other coaches, and extinguish problems as they come up.
| 1,194 |
For this post, I will be sharing with you the significant and relevant life experiences and developments I have had in this past year and why they matter to me. Some will be practices that I have carried from previous years and some are new to my spiritual/creative practice. I'll be dipping into my art, music and journaling practices I've tapped into this year, along with other relevant happenings. Thanks for joining me on my 2021 Year in Review!
Here I am in my former music studio singing and playing my piano back in the spring of 2021.
I would have to say that my most Exciting and Rewarding development was with a focus on MUSIC, and specifically with learning to play piano. Let me give you a bit of history...I started writing spiritual songs several years ago being inspired by sacred text as well as with prayer/meditation, essential parts of my spiritual practice. In my third year of writing spiritual songs, I decided I needed to learn to play an instrument so I could accompany myself as I sing. Up til that point, I was using a tambourine for percussion.
I got myself a piano app to try my hand as learning to play one of my spiritual songs by ear. I succeeded in that endeavor, so after a few months, I decided to get myself a digital piano! Back in March, it arrived and I was absolutely thrilled! I have added new songs to my piano book over the months and now have over twenty songs I play. I don’t have any of them fully memorized, but I’m learning to play some parts by memory just from regular practice. I learned the keys intuitively rather than putting stickers on the keys to remember where each one is located. I have also watched various YouTube videos by Pianote and Jazer who teach online. So I’ve learned to play 1, 2 and 3 note chords in addition to the melodies in various ways for my songs.
I am super excited with how far I’ve come since March. It is deeply satisfying to compose, play and sing my spiritual songs on my piano. It lifts my spirit, strengthens my faith and calms me when I’m stressed.
Sometimes I play several times a day, and even when I’m waiting to do something else, because I enjoy it so much.
Music has always had an important place in my life and heart, and this just brings it to a whole new level that deeply touches and satisfies me.
One of my fun illustrated cartoon doodles of me working in my office. Copyright 2021 by Dawn Herring
As an artist, my goal is to learn new skills and expand on what I’m already doing, especially if I’m deeply curious about a specific skill I haven’t learned yet. Last year, I learned to draw a cartoon properly and, as a result, I consistently draw myself in cartoon when I create my daily evening doodle, which consists of a word that summarizes my day. I draw myself (with the clothing I wore that day) inside one of the letters (similar to the header at the beginning of this post!).
One day I asked myself, Wouldn’t it be cool to draw other garments on my cartoon figure? So I decided to create a drawing illustrating myself in a dress which you can see below. I had so much fun with this new approach to fashion illustration that I decided to do more than one!
I also tried my hand at illustrating one of my nieces in dance ensembles which you can see in a previous post. This was a fabulous learning experience with body anatomy and fashion combined.
I intend to do more of this Fashion Illustrated cartooning in 2022. I may also dabble more in face cartooning on a larger scale.
This is my very first fashion illustrated cartoon, creating myself in a beautiful dress NOT in my wardrobe! Copyright 2021 by Dawn Herring
Also, on the art front, I’ve taken a deep dive back into Art Journaling. This time I’m focusing on using gouache, ink, pastels, fabric and embellishments in my art journal play. The collage aspect is super fun for me and fabric is a deeply satisfying element to use in my spreads. The combination of texture, design and color is perfect for my purposes. It’s interesting that I’ve been collecting a fabric stash over the past several years and I’m finally using this in my art application. I enjoy pinning my fabric on cork for inspiration and cutting and trimming to fit different fabrics in specific spaces that work for me in my composition.
I have deeply missed the entire intuitive process of creating from my heart onto the page using color, texture, mark making, stamping, inking and collage, with messages that reveal themselves over time and place. Art journaling is a process that enables me to express myself deeply, honoring who I am and what Spirit wants to say to me through this medium. Plus, it’s a whole lot of fun!
In other journaling news, I continue to add Bullet Journaling to my daily mix, using it to track important aspects of my life, from sacred study notes and song writing, to keeping track of my wardrobe choice with color and daily choices, to Gratitude and Sweet Spots (moments in my day that I want to recall that lift my spirit, make me smile or laugh, etc.). I don’t make it fancy or elaborate. I keep it simple, relevant and fun. One of the advantages of my bullet journal practice is keeping me aware of the things that are deeply meaningful to me, like what I’m thinking about, dreaming about, and keeping track of what I accomplish each day. It’s a totally different approach to my narrative journaling in my blank sketchbook. And using them in tandem just broadens my journaling horizons in meaningful ways.
In the earlier part of this year, I co-hosted two episodes of Keeping It Sweet with my dear friend, Carrie Aulenbacher, You can view all episodes by searching navigation for our page here on this website. We have such fun together taking about all things Essential, Simple and Satisfying.
I trust that by sharing my Year in Review, that you have been inspired to focus on what is Essential to you, what areas where you can keep it more Simple, and finding ways to find the deepest Satisfaction in what you do on a daily basis. It’s important to celebrate your wins, take care of yourself in ways only you know work for you, and finding the Sweetness in every day!
I also want to take this moment to thank you, my friends, for following my art and music and journaling journey in 2021. It has been fun and inspiring to share what I’ve been up to along the way. What else would you like to know about my practices? Let me know in the comments.
Wishing you All The Sweetness in the New Year!
Hello friends, and welcome back to The Sweet Spot, where we focus on all things Essential, Simple and Satisfying!
I'm excited to share more ARTSY related stuff since I've been doing a LOT of Experimenting. For me, experimenting gives me space to follow my curiosity, expand my horizons and try new things that interest me. Following the Question: Would I like to try that? is hugely motivating, especially if the answer is yes!
In this post, I plan to share with you my most recent venturing into what I'm calling my illustrated cartoon journey.
But a little recent history first: Back in 2020, I learn how to draw myself as a cartoon and do so each evening in my illustrated cartoon doodle, which you can check out here.
Then I decided to try my hand at doing a cartoon style portrait of each of my daughters, which you can view here.
Then I decided to try my hand at combining myself in cartoon with fashion illustration of garments not in my own wardrobe which I did here and here.
I have been having so much fun with all this cartoon illustrating! It's definitely been a Sweet Spot for me for sure!
Then just a bit ago, I pulled out a small photo album filled with photos of my two nieces, daughters to my one and only older sis. (Permission given by her to share the drawings of one of her daughters below. :))
I started to peruse them and decided to try my hand at drawing an illustrated cartoon version of my younger niece who is a dancer, and has been taking tap and ballet since she was young and still going strong in high school.
I consider all the drawings below as sketched experiments, not final artwork. I use permanent India ink pen when drawing the contour as well as the color for the details. I also used some watercolor markers for the hair. Since ink is not erasable, there are lines that I had to adjust/correct, so these are by not means perfect. But so fun!!
My niece in her tap dance ensemble in stripes and polka dots. Illustrated by Dawn Herring Copyright 2021
I decided to start with the youngest image with her dressed in a tap dance costume with stripes and polka dots, which I thought was the cutest! I really enjoyed the whole process of drawing the details of the garment and accessories as well as rendering her face as accurately as possible without going into too much detail; after all, it's considered a illustrated cartoon version.
My niece in her tap dance ensemble, in gold and floral. Illustrated by Dawn Herring Copyright 2021
For the above image of her in floral with gold background with black lace detail, I took the same approach. I used India ink and some watercolor markers to render this older image of my niece. My goal was to do several of her based on age, from younger to older.
My niece in her green flapper tap dance ensemble. Illustrated by Dawn Herring Copyright 2021
In the above image with my niece in a green flapper style dress, I went a big larger with her face, so this is almost a portraiture in illustrated cartoon style. By this third experiment, I was getting more comfortable with the skin highlights and using the right lightness of grey for shadow purposes.
My niece in her ballet ensemble. Illustrated by Dawn Herring Copyright 2021
My niece in her ballet ensemble with entire figure. Illustrated by Dawn Herring Copyright 2021
With the two above drawings of my niece in her most recent ballet assemble, we jumped a few years in time! I was so impressed with the beauty of her form, I decided to do two cartoon illustrated renditions of her ballet images. The first was more close up for more detail and the 2nd was so I could include the whole figure. They look similar in size side by side, but the first one is larger than the second one. It was good experience to experiment with both sizes and working with the details in both. I would say my biggest challenge was rendering the hands with such dramatic positioning of the fingers. In addition to the India ink and watercolor markers/pens, I also added some oil pastel in lavender, pink and purples since I didn't have proper paler colors in my markers for this rendering. I simply sketched the tulle portion of her ballet skirt with pale grey.
This entire experience was invaluable to me of rendering another family member in this illustrated cartoon approach! Each drawing teaches me something new. Plus with the repetition of drawing the same face, I build muscle memory, so each time it gets a little easier.
One of my future goals is to eventually draw the figures and faces without a black outline. I have yet to try this with my evening doodle cartoon, so I'm thinking that may be the best place to start. But, we'll see.
I've seen some portraiture approaches with just flat marker color, starting with a light base, adding a medium base for more definition with parts of the face, then a darker base for even more shadow work for depth and dimension; then using pen for all the fine details. I haven't tried that approach just yet, but am looking forward to the open possibility!
Experimenting is prime for me right now as I make my way in the illustration and cartooning world with which I'm having so. much. fun. As always, I'll keep you up to date with my latest ventures so you can follow along with me.
Art is one of my most Essential Activities that brings me Simple Pleasure and Deep Satisfaction.
What is most Essential, Simple and Satisfying for you right now? Drop and comment and do share! I'd love to hear from you!
Let's Keep It Sweet together and make this world a better, happier (and saner) place.
P.S. All drawings are Copyrighted to Dawn Herring, 2021.
Hello friends! Welcome back to The Sweet Spot where we focus on all things Essential, Simple and Satisfying.
For the past two posts, I've focused on my illustrated doodle cartoon and combining that with Fashion Illustration, where I illustrate fashion from other imaged sources aside from my own wardrobe. I have always enjoyed fashion illustration from a young age, mostly with contour drawings in my younger years.
But since I have been using Markers and Pens for my evening doodle, I have translated my love of fashion illustration into cartoon format and have such fun doing so!
I recently tried my hand at combining my cartoon with a multi colored floral dress design which you can see here.
I just completed my second try at this new combination, this time with a belted floral coat of sorts. The original color scheme for this piece was lighter than what I used, more like pink and orange pastels. But, since I don't have those colors readily available in my art supply stash, I went with a bit of a bolder color scheme with darker pinks and deeper oranges, which suit me just fine. It does give it a lot more pop than the original. Not sure which color scheme I like better, but, to keep it SIMPLE, I went with the colors I had.
Usually I try to match things as closely as possible for a more aligned image, but this time, I chose to simply go with what was in hand. And be okay with that.
I'm not really into pastel colors, although I do have a lighter purple in my stash that I use a lot. Vibrant colors are usually my go to, which, if you've followed me for any length of time, you know it's what I create with and what I wear, for that matter!
Here is my second attempt at a fashion illustrated cartoon from a piece I don't own in my wardrobe. Drawing Copyrighted to Dawn Herring 2021
In my first attempt, which you can see here, the drawing of the dress is smaller is size. This 2nd attempt is broader with the shoulders and pattern. I'm still trying to decide if the cartoon head should have started out a bit bigger. But once it's drawn in ink, it's permanent. It's often in retrospect that I see what I could have done better. But, alas, this IS an Experiment and I'm having a delicious time with the process.
I always start the drawing with the head and move to the contour of the garment right from the shoulders. So placement is key for sizing. If the shoulders are drawn too wide, then the whole garment will be broader. Every drawing for me is a learning experience. I'm still proud of my work and my efforts to expand my artistic horizons.
Would I draw this again to make the proportions more accurate? No, probably not. Moving on to the next thing with new knowledge is the way I'm most likely to go.
This is a very busy pattern of mixed florals. I really love larger motifs like this and the contrast between the white detail and the varying mixed color palette. Would I wear this? Probably not. I would choose a less busy pattern personally, but it was a fun challenge to draw.
This approach to fashion (a combination of cartoon and illustration is pen and marker) is a work in progress and it's fun to see the choices I make as far as images I'm drawn to each time.
Art really does equal awareness: of what I like, the color patterns, the motifs I enjoy, the size of the detail and design, the layers I incorporate as I draw and "Paint" the colors to accentuate shadow and depth.
To me, art is a gift. No matter how you apply it. Creation is all about paying attention to what you love and what you care about. And using creation as a way to express yourself. Give yourself that gift in whatever form is Sweet for you!
Thanks for sharing in my artistic journey!
Welcome back to The Sweet Spot! I share all things Essential, Simple and Satisfying in my life with the purpose of showing what a difference it can make to be mindful of these elements. As I recognize what is Satisfying to me, I want to do more of it. When I see what is Essential for me, I want to be sure I make space for it. When something gets too complicated for me, I want to find strategies to make it simple and do-able.
For this post, I plan to share a bit of my cartoon doodle art (and the history behind my process), which is something I create on a daily basis in the evenings. I started off about 8 or 9 years ago, when I used a word to summarize my day, and took up a challenge to create a doodle a day for 7 days and used that word as my source for the doodle. Well, I guess you can say, I never stopped! I was having so much fun creating doodle designs, I just wanted to keep going with it. It was fun and inspiring and a relaxing way to end my day.
Once I started using markers and pens to bring color into the. mix, then the sky was the limit! Winsor Newton watercolor markers, Tombows, and Faber Castell Artist Pitt Pens came into the mix, for detail, full color, highlights and designs. I found myself using dots, circles, Lines and spiral motifs repeatedly since that's what I used in my paintings as well. I just go with whatever comes to mind. It's a very intuitive process that delights my Artist Self.
This illustrated cartoon doodle was to commemorate playing my new piano in March of 2021 and how blissful the experience was right from the beginning! Image Copyrighted to Dawn Herring 2021
As I mentioned in a previous post, Illustrated Doodle Cartoon, where I share my recent foray into fashion illustration from an outside resource other than my wardrobe, I greatly desired to learn how to draw myself in cartoon form. I've wanted to do this since high school! Over the years I looked for instruction through different books on cartooning, and I finally found one that suited me with a step by step. After several months, I began to create a cartoon that resembled me somewhat and have improved it with facial expressions (eyebrows really do make a difference!), and work on the figure (which is a work in progress!). Of course I do all of this in pen, so NO ERASING. My work is all free-hand.
This illustrated cartoon doodle focuses on having completed several computer tasks and waiting for approval for future action. Image Copyrighted to Dawn Herring 2021
There are times when I really like the result. Other times, not so much. I've learned what to draw first so it looks naturally layered with no lines interfering with other illustrated parts. I just go with the flow and learn from my perceived "mistakes". I'm having so much fun with it! It is truly a Satisfying engagement for me as an Artist.
This illustrated cartoon doodle honors my state of weariness from a very busy overwhelming day. Image Copyrighted by Dawn Herring 2021
When I first began my evening doodle, I just used black and white. So I was purely focused on the design aspect of filling in the letters and creating a doodle that looked like what the word meant. I even read a book on the subject to learn various letter designs to try and incorporate the feeling of the its meaning.
Once I added color, I was still outlining in black pen. Several years ago, I decided to draw with colors for the outline of the letters, eliminating always outlining in black pen, and that really made a difference in the way the doodle looked. Brighter, more intuitive, and lively. So, now I always start with color. I rarely just draw the doodle outlined with black pen.
When I entered my cartoon into the mix, I drew with black pen from the start and still do. I fill each cartoon with go to colors for skin and hair, plus adding design elements for the wardrobe, such as lines for stripes. I try to capture the motif design as much as possible without making it too complicated. When I draw the fabric, I don't reference the garment in front of me. I just go by memory. I think back to what I wore that day and just run with it.
This illustrated cartoon doodle commemorated something I had read about gratitude that really stayed with me and was deeply meaningful. Image Copyrighted by Dawn Herring 2021
One thing I want to point out. When I started this doodle process, it was just for fun. In black and white. Adding color came almost 2 years later. Drawing with color instead of black pen even later still. Adding my cartoon has been a recent venture in the past year and a half. All these elements took time to develop and include in my daily art practice. Not all at once.
So, if you're looking to create a routine with an art form, keep it simple right from the beginning. Simplicity is key to trying something new. And if you run into something, a new idea, that feels right, try it, with no expectation for the outcome. And if it works, run with it and see how long it keeps your attention and satisfaction. Change things up if that's what suits you. Be patient with yourself if it doesn't turn out "right" every time. Practice is key, especially daily practice.
I look forward to creating my illustrated cartoon doodle each evening. It always relaxes me and gives me space to practice design elements, cartoon form, illustration, and overall capturing of what matters to me in my day. Essentially, it's a visual colorful diary in addition to my evening written reflection. It shows my ups and downs and keeps me in the know of how I'm doing. In other words, it's relevant to me on a daily basis. It holds meaning that I feel is important to myself as an Artist, a Creative, a Family member, a Business Partner (with hubby), an emerging musician (Just learning to play piano!), and female human.
I trust you have enjoyed this foray into my illustrated cartoon doodle journey and my goal is to inspire you in your creative pursuits, whatever they may be. Just remember to keep it Essential, Simple and Satisfying to creative as many Sweet Spots in your daily life!
Wishing you all the Sweetness!
Welcome back to Keeping It Sweet co-hosted by Dawn and Carrie where we focus on All Things Essential, Simple and Satisfying!
For this episode, we focus on Seasons of Creativity, whether it spring or summer or we're changing things up based on our curiosity! Join us for some fun and laughter (and for some beginning piano playing by Dawn!) and leave a comment about what season of creativity you're enjoying!
Welcome back to The Sweet Spot! I had such joy with nature sounds in my office that I decided to take a walk and share it with you, my dear friends and readers/watchers. The Sweetness of Spring is so Essential, Simple and Satisfying, isn’t it? Let’s listen to the birds, see butterflies and ducks and share what’s happening with each other. Life is Sweeter when we do it together!
Thanks for joining me and you’re welcome to share this video with a friend. And if you haven’t subscribed yet, you’re also welcome to join my community where we talk about all things Essential, Simple and Satisfying, which, for me, is the description of what a Sweet Spot looks and feels like.
Welcome back to Keeping It Sweet co-hosted by me and my dear friend, Carrie Aulenbacher. We focus on all things Essential, Simple and Satisfying!
For this New Year's Edition, I share extensive tips on bullet journaling and making things sweeter in the home, and Carrie shares a meaningful project she's been working on!
Do leave a comment about how you're keeping it sweet in 2021!
(This edited video was originally recorded live on Facebook.)
You can view previous episodes of Keeping It Sweet here.
As another year comes to a close, and WHAT A YEAR IT HAS BEEN, like none other I’ve experienced before, as you, my readers, from around the world can attest to.
The purpose of my sharing these highlights, as I do each year, is to show my evolving path, as artist, journal keeper, business owner and woman.
Some of what I list is personal, some professional and some, just downright fun!
What I have chosen to list would qualify as Essential, Simple and Satisfying in one way or another. So, shall we begin? Come along on my 2020 journey with me!
As I proceed, I will focus on my Professional Life first. As Office Manager of Bill’s Quality Electric, LLC, which is headed by my Master Electrician/Electrical Contractor Husband, I am responsible for all things having to do with our business, and that includes Social Media Marketing. We have been on Twitter and Facebook for many a year. But this year, I decided to add a YouTube Channel, new territory for our business!
This year was also a more creative year for me as writer of our Electrical Safety blog. Each time I publish a new post, I now promote it on our YouTube Channel, which is Your Electrical Safety Resource! I have so enjoyed this new venture and am excited to share it with you! You are welcome to subscribe for electrical safety, shock and fire prevention tips!
Here I am in our Electrical Office with our company logo!
The next item I’m super excited and pleased to share involves a very close, special friend of mine. This year I decided to launch a new LIVE SHOW called, Keeping It Sweet, where we focus on all things Essential, Simple and Satisfying, which is how I describe a Sweet Spot! So, My dear friend, Carrie Aulenbacher, and I co-host together, with each of us sharing how we’re Keeping It Sweet right now! Plus we share tips on how we focus on what is Essential, Simple and Satisfying, giving daily life examples of what that looks like and what a difference it makes to our happiness, JOY and well being. You’re welcome to check out the episodes here. Just a head’s up: there’s a LOT of FUN and LAUGHTER going on!
Here is Keeping It Sweet with Dawn and Carrie! Just click on the image to watch our Christmas Edition!
The next item is focused on books, specifically the author and spiritual teacher, Eckhart Tolle. I learned of him several years ago with his book, A New Earth someone told me about, which I read and thoroughly enjoyed. Then I found out about his other book, The Power of Now, which I also read. Well, this year, I began to watch Eckhart on video, listening to his teachings from events held around the world, based often on questions from the audience. I really appreciated his calm and kind manner, his sense of humor and the truth of what he spoke. So, now I make Eckhart part of my morning routine, and I recently re-read the books mentioned. I highly recommend them to anyone who is interested in spending more time in the Present Moment and less time caught up in the crazy thoughts running through the head focused on past and future.
Now for one of my favorite subjects: ART. I have several things to share in this category.
First, is my practice of EXPERIMENTATION with watercolor (I share more detail in this post.) I won’t go into too much detail here, but I will say that it has been truly rewarding to try New Things as an artist and how much fun it has been to see what I am capable of creating with my paintbrush and Winsor Newton watercolors! My goal is to apply what I have learned over the past almost-decade of time since I first dabbled in watercolor and see where it takes me.
For most of the time, I have focused on the intuitive approach to painting, but 2020 brought me to try my hand at replicating subject matter that appeals to me, thus I have succeeded and it has brought me great Satisfaction and has been a huge Sweet Spot in my year.
The next aspect of ART I want to mention for my year end review is adding some real fun to my daily doodle, which I started 8 or 9 years ago, first with black marker, and then adding color, texture and detail. This year, I determined to try my hand at something I’ve always wanted to learn: CARTOONING. Yep. But not just drawing a figure. But dressing that figure in my own wardrobe every day! How fun this has been for me, since FASHION has always been of interest to me, especially concerning illustrating. So each night, I’ve added myself in cartoon form, which only enhances my daily doodle far beyond just a fun word.
And lastly, for Christmas, I decided to try my hand at creating a cartoon/illustrative portrait for each of my daughters. A larger version of my daily cartoon. And I am happy to say that I succeeded! This is also a new approach for me using the same tools I use for my daily doodle.
For many years, I did pencil portraits of my family and of many celebrities. But drawing in pen is a completely different experience and a rewarding one at that.
Here's an example of a word doodle with my new Cartoon representing me. SO SATISFYING. Copyright 2020 Dawn Herring
Pen and Marker Portrait of eldest daughter, Sarah, Mother to my grandson.
Pen and Marker Portrait of youngest daughter, Hannah. Click on her image to check out her new website, and business, No Missing Commas.
Now onto a subject many of my readers are familiar with and that’s JOURNALING. I won’t go into the details of my extensive journaling practice; instead I will simply share one addition I made starting in December of 2019: BULLET JOURNALING. I read the book and have it in my personal library.
I will say this: I have only adopted some of what is taught, such as daily rapid logs, Collections, and monthly spreads. Nothing fancy. You can see some of the inside pages in this video/blog post I created for The Journal Showdown hosted by Jamie Ridler. My Bullet Journal has added more Order to my days and a place to delve more deeply into what matters to me. What I love about it is the way you customize is to fit your goals and needs.
Me with two of my journals, the smaller one being my Bullet Journal, the larger, my sketchbook journal for reflection/doodling. Copyright 2020 Dawn Herring
My final focus for this year in review is MUSIC. I had two developments to share this year.
The first was acquiring a mic with stand and speaker. So, now I can sing the spiritual songs I have written and amplify my voice. (I was given this gift right around my birthday! What a delightful surprise!)
The second development has involved learning to PLAY MY SONGS on the PIANO. I’m currently using an app until I get a piano keyboard. When I do acquire one, I’ll let you know! I’m still researching what kind to get before I make a purchase.
Playing the piano, learning the keys to play the melody, is something I have desired to do for a very long time. It’s basically a musical dream come true! It makes me so happy! Yay!
So, putting it all together, writing spiritual songs, playing them on my piano and using my mic to amplify the sound: a SUPER SWEET SPOT FOR MY SOUL. INDEED.
Singing with my mic and tambourine! Sweet! Copyright 2020 Dawn Herring
So, that sums up what I wanted to share with you all as 2020 comes to a close and 2021 begins.
My wish for you, dear readers, for 2021 is that you will find the SWEETNESS and savor it every day from what is ESSENTIAL, SIMPLE and SATISFYING for you! And you are always welcome to share what your Sweet Spots are here on this blog or on social media where we are connected.
When we share what is Sweet for us right now, we #spreadthesweetness in community, thus, making the world a Sweeter Place. And we can always have more of that, can’t we?
Thanks for your interest in my 2020 Year in Review and I wish you a HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Hello friends and welcome to Ep 4 of Keeping It Sweet Christmas Edition, co-hosted by me, Dawn, and my dear Friend, Carrie Aulenbacher!
Our focus is on all things Essential, Simple and Satisfying and for this episode, we talk about all things Christmas, going down memory lane and offering some great ideas to make your Christmas time extra special.
Do leave a comment and let us know how you're Keeping It Sweet this holiday season!
This video was originally recorded LIVE on Facebook.
Catch the replay of Episode 3 of Keeping It Sweet, co-hosted by Dawn Herring and Carrie Aulenbacher. We focus on how we keep it sweet by focusing on what is Essential, Simple and Satisfying for us and that qualifies as a Sweet Spot.
In this episode we share some autumn sweetness and some wardrobe Sweet Spots. Think Fun and Laughter!
Do join us and share a comment below about what is your Sweet Spot right now! As we share in community, we make the world a Sweeter Place!
Author
Hi. I'm Dawn Herring. Here at The Sweet Spot I love writing about how I'm keeping it sweet with music, song writing, cartooning, doodling, watercolor painting, movie watching and book reading. My goal is to share what feels really sweet to me and why. Perhaps it will inspire you to do the same.
| 33,801 |
Battles do not occur frequently in my books, but when they do, they are pivotal scenes. I have no personal interest in warfare, in strategy and tactics or in battlefield recreations, or in the choreography of fighting. How then do I write the scenes?
I’ll use the final battle in Empire’s Exile, the third book of my Empire’s Legacy trilogy, as the focus of this discussion. Briefly, the battle is taking place between Viking-like invaders to a country with similarities with England. There is no magic, and both sides have relatively small numbers.
I begin as I do with all battle scenes: what needs to happen here? Is there a particular topography or geographic feature I want to include? Is the weather important? Is there a concept—betrayal, a specific act of heroism or selflessness, overwhelming odds—that must be included? Are particular weapons important?
Once I have those defined, Google and my long years of research into my particular time period become my friends. Quite simply, I go looking for a battle I can—not quite copy, but base mine upon.
What did I need for the battle in Exile? Small numbers, as I’ve already said. Because I wanted to reference a battle described in Empire’s Hostage, Book II of the series, it needed to be on a river. A vague memory surfaced, something learned many long years earlier for the language it was written in, not the actual battle. A 10th Century poem…
I couldn’t remember more than that, but a quick search was all it took: The Battle of Maldon. I read the poem again, and as many interpretations of it I could find, both on-line and in my university library, but for ease of access, I’ll reference Wikipedia. The italics indicate the parts I drew inspiration from.
“The Vikings sailed up the Blackwater (then called the Panta), and Byrhtnoth called out his levy. The poem begins with him ordering his men to stand and to hold weapons. His troops, except for personal household guards, were local farmers and villagers of the Essex Fyrd militia. He ordered them to “send steed away and stride forwards”: they arrived on horses but fought on foot. The Vikings sailed up to a small island in the river. At low tide, the river leaves a land bridge from this island to the shore; the description seems to have matched the Northey Island causeway at that time. This would place the site of the battle about two miles southeast of Maldon. Olaf addressed the Saxons, promising to sail away if he was paid with gold and armour from the lord. Byrhtnoth replied, “We will pay you with spear tips and sword blades.”
“With the ebb of the tide, Olaf’s forces began an assault across the small land bridge. Three Anglo-Saxon warriors… blocked the bridge, successfully engaging any Vikings who pressed forward. The Viking commander requested that Byrhtnoth allow his troops onto the shore for formal battle. Byrhtnoth let the enemy force cross to the mainland. Battle was joined, but an Englishman called Godrīc fled riding Byrhtnoth’s horse. Godrīc’s brothers Godwine and Godwīg followed him….Then many English fled, recognizing the horse and thinking that its rider was Byrhtnoth fleeing. The Vikings overcame the Saxons after losing many men, killing Byrhtnoth. After the battle Byrhtnoth’s body was found with its head missing, but his gold-hilted sword was still with his body.”
In Exile, the Emperor manipulates his enemy to fighting at a location based on the river and its islands and causeway, almost exactly as described in The Battle of Maldon. In a different source, I discovered that if the Viking ships had sailed into the mouth of the river at high tide, a sandbank at the mouth would prevent them from leaving until the next high tide, about 12 hours later. So I included that, too.
I put the confrontation between the two leaders into my battle, and Brythnoth’s words about ‘spear tips and sword blades’ are repeated by the Emperor. I used the blocking of the causeway. I used Godwin and the horse in a different way, a tactic by the enemy, but with similar results. And at the end of the battle, the Emperor, like Brythnoth, is dead.
I wrote an outline of the scene, just the action. I drew pictures of what happened. Then I wrote the first version of it, through the eyes of my protagonist. I write in first-person, so the reader knows only what the protagonist knows, but also sees and hears and feels what she feels, including her interior thoughts. (Video comes in useful here, any good medieval battle scene, for the sounds and sights.) Smells need imagination —the metallic scent of blood; the pong of river mud, the stench of a disembowelled horse, the tang of sweat. Feelings—the horse underneath you, the sweat on your hands as grasp your weapon, wind in your face. Thoughts—fear, calculation, unnatural calmness, regret, anger, joy: however your protagonist would react.
Then I gave the scene to my critique partner, who does know a bit about battles and tactics, and he gave it back with a lot of suggestions, and after three rounds of that, I had my battle. If you happen to be either a scholar of Old English poetry or 10th C English history, you might recognize its source. Its derivation adds verisimilitude to my fictional, analogue world, and it’s in keeping with how I do most of my world-building.
As for who wins…well, for that, you’ll have to read the book.
Follow the Author Tool Box Blog Hop for tips and thoughts on writing.
Related
Published October 14, 2019 October 14, 2019
Previous Post A Writer’s Life…or at least a morning.
Next Post The Book Fair
9 thoughts on “Writing Battles”
November 8, 2019 at 12:34 pm
I love writing battle scenes! I like how you execute yours.
Ronel catching up for Oct Author Toolbox day The Pros and Cons of Starting a Company as a Self-Pub Author
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 17, 2019 at 6:30 pm
What a great method for writing battles! I feel like I always underestimate them–I mean, fight scenes wouldn’t last that long in the real world, right? But then I think about how the Iliad is basically one big fight scene and it’s still so long…
marianlthorpe says:
October 17, 2019 at 10:04 pm
Time does odd things in battle, too, I think. So if it’s written from first person, time can expand or contract. If it’s multiple POV – well, then it can take a long time again.
LikeLiked by 1 person
charityrau says:
October 16, 2019 at 11:08 pm
Interesting post! Thanks for sharing.
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 16, 2019 at 9:01 pm
Clarity, focus and slowing time down don’t hurt either.
marianlthorpe says:
October 16, 2019 at 11:59 pm
LikeLiked by 1 person
October 16, 2019 at 1:48 pm
That’s a great process! Battle scenes always seem so intimidating to write, but I think this is a great way to tackle it. Thanks for sharing!
October 16, 2019 at 1:30 pm
I really like your process – it makes a lot of sense and sounds like it got you right where you needed to go. I love the inspiration from historical battles that fit some of your parameters – it sounds really authentic. Thank you for sharing!
raimeygallant says:
October 16, 2019 at 3:00 am
I have never even thought about what it would be like to conceive of something fictional like this! What an eye-opener. And how clever are you to use a poem from another era to make it authentic.
| 7,608 |
Florida hospitals are struggling to provide care to patients after Hurricane Ian NPR's Ayesha Rascoe speaks with Florida Hospital Association's CEO Mary Mayhew about conditions at health care facilities in southwest Florida following Hurricane Ian.
Florida hospitals are struggling to provide care to patients after Hurricane Ian
October 2, 20227:55 AM ET
Florida hospitals are struggling to provide care to patients after Hurricane Ian
NPR's Ayesha Rascoe speaks with Florida Hospital Association's CEO Mary Mayhew about conditions at health care facilities in southwest Florida following Hurricane Ian.
Evacuations are underway at many hospitals struggling to provide care to patients in southwest Florida. After Hurricane Ian ripped through Fort Myers, Naples and other parts of the state, dozens of facilities reported flooding, power outages and loss of water. Mary Mayhew is the CEO of the Florida Hospital Association. She joins us now to talk about recovery efforts. Welcome.
MARY MAYHEW: Thank you. Good morning.
RASCOE: How are hospital evacuations going right now?
MAYHEW: Over the last several days, there has been a coordinated effort with the hospitals in southwest Florida to evacuate critical patients. That has been done through state resources, the deployment of ambulances, air transport and with all of the other hospitals around the state. Thousands of beds have been made available to accept evacuated patients. Air transport and ambulances have been deployed from hospitals around the state to support this effort.
RASCOE: Can you tell us about the extent of the damage the hurricane caused to medical facilities?
MAYHEW: Well, certainly, the destruction in southwest Florida and specifically in the Fort Myers area is unimaginable. Now, thankfully, hospitals have been hardening their facilities for years to withstand hurricanes. There is not considerable damage to our hospitals. The biggest challenge that our hospitals have faced is the interruption of key public services, the electrical grid, and most especially the disruption in the public water supply. That has been the biggest challenge to sustaining operations of our hospitals in that area.
RASCOE: So how many medical facilities are nonoperational?
MAYHEW: Right now there are five hospitals that over the last several days have been dealing with the loss of power and the loss of water. Now, thankfully, today, 4 of those 5 hospitals now have power and the water issues have been improved. There still is one hospital that is without water, and the remaining hospitals are still dealing with water pressure issues. But the situation is improving dramatically.
RASCOE: About how many patients are affected?
MAYHEW: It's about 900 patients among those hospitals. And again, some of the individuals over the last several days, some of the patients have been transferred to other hospitals around the state.
RASCOE: So these hospitals are dealing with issues. They're dealing with some challenges. How are they getting through, you know, not having water pressure, at least one that still doesn't have, you know, water at all? How are they dealing with these challenges?
MAYHEW: Gratefully, there have been so many resources deployed to this area. Governor DeSantis made sure that there were very large tankers with water deployed to the area. The hospitals have been able to pump water from other nearby sources. There have been fire trucks deployed to the hospitals with water. So there have been a lot of resources that have been brought to these hospitals to support over the last several days their need for water.
RASCOE: And we know that seniors are among the most vulnerable in these situations. And nursing homes were hit hard, as well. What are the conditions like for them right now?
MAYHEW: Well, there have been thousands of individuals in our nursing homes, in assisted living facilities that were evacuated from areas in southwest Florida. There are many nursing homes and assisted living facilities that either were in flood areas, or the buildings were not able to withstand the hurricane-force winds. So significant disruption, obviously, for the individuals residing in those facilities. And, of course, it'll be some time before they may be able to return to those nursing homes and assisted living facilities. And that, of course, also means that any of the hospital patients who needed to be discharged back to a nursing home - there will be significant delays.
RASCOE: What does the path to recovery look like for hospitals and nursing homes damaged by the hurricane? What resources are needed right now?
MAYHEW: We absolutely depend on 24/7 access to hospital services. Hospitals are urgently repairing damage. Those hospitals that closed in neighboring Charlotte - they are urgently working to reopen their facility. These hospitals are incredibly resilient. Their teams are focused on prioritization of sustained operations because we've got so many individuals, as well, through the search-and-rescue operations that will need hospital level of care.
RASCOE: Mary Mayhew is the CEO of the Florida Hospital Association. Thank you so much for joining us.
MAYHEW: Thank you for having me.
Copyright © 2022 NPR. All rights reserved. Visit our website terms of use and permissions pages at www.npr.org for further information.
NPR transcripts are created on a rush deadline by an NPR contractor. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Accuracy and availability may vary. The authoritative record of NPR’s programming is the audio record.
| 5,938 |
I'm a father, husband, marathoner, half marathoner and regular runner guy hoping to promote a healthy balanced lifestyle especially in the African-American community.
attack fish
Other Apps
July 21, 2010
Other Apps
Comments
please be respectful in your comments. God Bless you!
Popular posts from this blog
Fixing an Canon EOS 630's Batter Drain problem
January 05, 2014
I don't think I'll get yelled at by too many people for this.. But I decided to take my Camera Completely apart to fix a problem inside. OK, relax -- It was my dad's 20 year old EOS 630. It wasn't a 70D, 5D or 1DX. This camera is the very first SLR that I learned to take pictures on. So its pretty special to me. I''l probably never junk it...or sell it on EBay. So, It's been hanging around in the back of a closet somewhere collecting dust. But the digital camera age isn't the only thing that killed this camera. It's the battery drain issue. You can put a brand new 10 dollar battery in this thing.. and it'll be dead the next morning. I did some research and found a write up below on how to fix it. I also tried to record a video of the fix. This is from ... I've shortened the directions on how to fix it just a tad.. but here you go: my camera with the latch plate off the latch plate Here's a link to
Don't stop here, ...Read more »
February 11, 2014
So, since diving into the world of Photography, .. I've heard of this extravagant expensive pieces of machinery that take Amazing photos. They're usually reserved for fashion and product, photographers. They're called medium Format cameras. I won't be reviewing one of those things today -sorry. But, I'll get pretty close. A friend of mine kept telling me about this camera that she had collecting dust in a closet somewhere. So, Naturally - as a fan of Pawn Stars and American Pickers-- I had my hopes really high for something cool and unique. When she finally got around to bring this camera kit around... I couldn't wipe the smile off my face. The name is familiar.. the camera was not. But I was still surprised. Mamiya. A big, huge name in Medium format cameras .. next to Hasslebad and Pentax.. also used to make SLR cameras. In my opinion they seemed to be some pretty good quality cameras too. But the much smaller company folded under the pre
| 2,418 |
Rightwing wackaloon and Minnesota Congresswoman and possible presidential candidate Michele Bachmann has been traveling hither and yon in New Hampshire, which, according to Bachmann, is where the ‘shot heard round the world’ was fired. For those who don’t routinely wallow in the depths of the Republican id, one of Bachmann’s signature issues is saving the incandescent light bulb. No, really, I’m not kidding:
She conjured a tea bag from a hidden compartment in her blazer and began waggling it at the crowd.
She waggled it while stumping for her Light Bulb Freedom of Choice Act, a bill she reintroduced to the House earlier this month that would repeal a government decision to phase out incandescent bulbs.
“I think Thomas Edison did a pretty patriotic thing for this country by inventing the light bulb,” she said, “and I think darn well you New Hampshirites, if you want to want to buy Thomas Edison’s wonderful invention you should be able to!”
Admittedly, ‘Michele Bachmann opens mouth and stupid shit falls out’ isn’t exactly newsworthy. But this from a Bachmann supporter is, erm, interesting:
On her way out, Dee Hogan of Nashua told me she would gladly vote for Bachmann. “I don’t appreciate that your next-door neighbor is going to start yelling at me, telling me to shut my lights off when they have that shut-your-lights-off thingee. I don’t want people in my face, telling me what to do.”
I really don’t understand this. Soundwaves encoding a phrase like energy efficient light bulb contact Hogan’s tympanic membrane. Then a neurological process that is kinda like cognition, except that it’s really, really fucking stupid, occurs and out pops….a posse of light bulb vigilantes.
This isn’t the kind of ‘centrist’ response one hears in response to a question the respondent is ashamed to answer “I don’t know” to–the ‘well, we just have to stay on the right track and see how it all plays out’ crapola. This is delusional paranoia worthy of the crazy guy on the subway.
Bill Maher recently joked:
When you go down the list of useless distractions that make up the Republican party agenda — public unions, Sharia law, anchor babies, the mosque at Ground Zero, ACORN, National Public Radio, the war on Christmas, the new Black Panthers, Planned Parenthood, Michelle Obama’s war on dessert…you realize that the reason nothing gets done in America is that one of the political parties puts so much [energy] into fantasy problems than real ones.
Governing this country with Republicans is like rooming with a meth addict; you want to address real-life problems, like when the rent is due, and they’re saying, “How can you even think of that stuff when there’s police scanner voices coming out of the air conditioner unit?”
How do we make progress on something like global warming when the Republican Party is in thrall to wackaloons who fear light bulb vigilantes?
Reddit
This entry was posted in Conservatives, Environment, Fucking Morons. Bookmark the permalink.
Links 3/21/11 →
March 21, 2011 at 1:22 pm
Aside from the utterly bizarre remark regarding Edison’s patriotism, what strikes me most about the Tea Party is the sheer audacity of their double standards:
“I don’t want people in my face, telling me what to do.”
Yeah, you don’t get to tell them which kind of light bulb to buy! Of course, they get to tell you whether you carry your fetus to term, whether you can die with dignity and which gender your partner can be. Heck, if your partner is transgender, they get to tell you which gender they are. And all of this with a completely straight face.
Whenever they are against something, there can’t be a right to it – “cuz it’s nowhere in the Constitution!”
Whenever they are in favor of something, it is a right – “cuz it’s nowhere in the Constitution that gubmint can restrict it!” (If the Constitution does allow for restrictions, then the Constitution just doesn’t matter at that point. After all, rights derive from God, and God is above the Constitution and always on their side.)
And they’ll apply these contradictory standards – literally – two paragraphs away from each other.
How do we make progress on something like global warming when the Republican Party is in thrall to wackaloons who fear light bulb vigilantes?
If I was cynical, I’d say seize the higher ground and wait and see whether the rising water will respect the Teabaggers’ God-given right not to drown.
More optimistically, most of the other Western democracies seem to have something of an unspoken consensus amongst their political classes that the hardest core of clueless morons at the fringes of the political spectrum is just not to be pandered to, no matter how easy the pickings would be. It must be possible to get to such a point in the U.S., as well.
dmab says:
March 21, 2011 at 2:06 pm
feralboy12 says:
March 21, 2011 at 2:10 pm
If incandescent bulbs were good enough for Jesus, they’re good enough for me.
Cuttlefish says:
March 21, 2011 at 2:32 pm
I get the feeling that if Obama were in favor of incandescent bulbs, Bachmann would suddenly be waving the fluorescent pigtail as the symbol of american thriftiness and patriotism.
Mokele says:
March 21, 2011 at 3:04 pm
Just so long as it’s possible to still buy incandescents for specialist applications, such as heating reptile enclosures. There’s really no effective substitute – hot rocks cause massive burns, and many lower-power options are insufficient for large or high-temperature species (some desert monitors need temps of 140F+ at the basking site).
March 21, 2011 at 4:44 pm
I want to know where I can get one of those “shut-[my neighbors]-lights-off-thingies”. That could be hours of fun.
March 21, 2011 at 8:51 pm
She waggled it while stumping for her Light Bulb Freedom of Choice Act, a bill she reintroduced to the House earlier this month that would repeal a government decision to phase out incandescent bulbs.
The 2007 decision passed 86-8 in the Senate, 314-100 in the House, and was signed by George W Bush. Of course, this was before the teabaggers invaded the GOP.
March 21, 2011 at 10:28 pm
Anyway, Edison did *not* invent the light bulb, not by a very long shot.
This is a classic example of american “it hasn’t happened until it’s happened here” parochialism, the same as how we get the rubbish about the Wright Brothers and so forth.
person says:
March 22, 2011 at 12:19 am
What an open-minded article! No wonder the majority of Americans find that science is losing its credibility. Oh yes those crazy tea party people with their constitution, and those pesky rights. They are so much worse than the protesters in Wisconsin who vandalize government property, vehicles, and make death threats to those who oppose them. Unfortunately the fascism of the left will be hard to defeat due to the complete and utter brainwashing of simple-minded people like you. Hopefully you have enough common sense to get your information from a variety of sources rather than the cult leaders of your cause.
Wow says:
March 22, 2011 at 6:50 am
“Oh yes those crazy tea party people with their constitution, and those pesky rights.”
So long as those rights include the right to check the vag of women to see if they’ve had an abortion.
“Unfortunately the fascism of the left ”
Thanks for the laugh. Really funny.
“get your information from a variety of sources rather than the cult leaders of your cause.”
You just keep giving, don’t you.
Wow says:
March 22, 2011 at 6:53 am
Uh those reptilian lights give out a significant amount of very bright light, you know. What happens when you sit in a highly-over-lit room for days and days on end?
Not good for the eyeball, you know.
So instead you can get, say, a radiant heater. More heat, less light. Then you can use a variable light system to make the light appropriate for your pets as opposed to blinding them to keep them warm.
March 22, 2011 at 6:56 am
The last two sentences of your post describe the insular,self-absorbed, myopic, whining, arrogant conservative mindset very well.
March 22, 2011 at 7:11 am
Conservatives constantly whine about their rights, but I rarely hear them talk about their responsibilities. Personal responsibility extends beyond “the it’s all about me, I’ve got mine” infantilism.
The Tea Party is another symptom of pathological individualism…immature,selfish and shortsighted thinking that has becomes sickness. Expressing our individiality is wonderful,but the outdated concept of the rugged individualist who has no connection to the good of the community is a convenient,self-comforting myth.
The libertarians/conservatives(aka Tea Party)refuse to see the context of the situation and how their lives and actions affect the health of the whole system and act as a spolied child who believes the universe revolves around them.
Grow up.
March 22, 2011 at 8:42 am
@person wrote: “Unfortunately the fascism of the left will be hard to defeat due to the complete and utter brainwashing of simple-minded people like you. Hopefully you have enough common sense to get your information from a variety of sources rather than the cult leaders of your cause.”
This is absolutely hilarious coming from a right-wing nutjob! What an awesomely clueless comment. Gosh, I don’t know where to begin.
1. Fascism is a far-right-wing phenomenon (defined as the merging of the corporations and the state, as our republicans are trying to do right now), not a liberal ideal, no matter what the Doughy Pantload (also known as Jonah Goldberg) may scribble.
2. Conservatives have brains that are wired differently than other people. In right-wing brains, emotions dominate, primarily hate and fear. Normal brains are driven primarily by logic and reason. Alas, it is you wingnuts who are “simple-minded”. (Check the IQ scores of red states if you doubt this.)
3. I literally laughed out loud when you mentioned the need for a “variety of sources”. Conservatives watch Fox “news” and ONLY Fox “News”. Conservatives listen to right-wing hate radio and ONLY right-wing hate radio. Everything else is considered heresy and “liberal lies”.
4. Your post is just such a perfect example of a right-winger projecting all of the faults of conservatives onto their ideological enemies. You clearly don’t even know you are doing this.
5. To sum up, you are revealed here as a simple-minded “person” who has been brainwashed into supporting fascism because you will only listen to the cult leaders of your cause and you lack common sense.
person says:
March 22, 2011 at 8:50 am
“Unfortunately the fascism of the left ”
Thanks for the laugh. Really funny. posted by Wow
Go ahead and do what liberals do to often forget the facts in the face of reality. The former Soviet Union and Communist China alone account for at least 80 million murdered. Would you not consider this an valid example? You my friend have been brainwashed fully and the prognosis for you is grim as for your liberal friends who are so blindly gullible.
Yes JULES thanks for backing up your argument with facts I was highly convinced. Individualism is what made America the dominant force in the world not endless red tape by rich Washington fat cats who intend on eliminating our constitutional rights. I guess if i believe that rights are important i am somehow archaic in my beliefs? If this is the case so be it you can have your communist society just not on these shores.
person says:
March 22, 2011 at 8:59 am
Ok Bernard since some conservatives watch Fox news this must be the source of my information? All your argument is is a series of stereotypes that have been indoctrinated into you through your personalized media. Fascism is a far-right phenomenon? Well do I really need to answer this considering that most people have taken a history class once in their lives. Who is Jonah Goldberg? So is there any evidence to support the claim that right-wing regimes are more responsible for mass murder than left-wing regimes? I highly doubt this but will expect another response complete with your imaginary straw man, dialectical garbage, and utter disregard for the truth.
March 22, 2011 at 9:28 am
It is all good and true but if progress is to be made at any reasonable speed, having the “other side” understand the environmental issues we face and getting their cooperation in solving them is primordial. Contrary to what has been said, people (consevative or otherwise) are seldom pure-logics machines – if ever. Emotions influence our reasoning all the time. Patronizing and ridiculing those who desagree with us is a sure way of never getting our message across.
@8: I share your views mate: Have these guys never heard of Alberto Santos-Dumont?
NJ says:
March 22, 2011 at 10:06 am
person @ 16:
All your argument is is a series of stereotypes that have been indoctrinated into you direct observations made through your personalized media very own eyes.
March 22, 2011 at 10:22 am
Your anti-intellectual screeds do nothing but show how your thinking is simplistic,two-dimensional and blindly ideological.
Life is complex and not reducable to convenient, dogmatic formulas and platitudes. Your type conservatism is a recipe for the destruction of freedom, the perversion of power and suppression of knowledge.
March 22, 2011 at 11:30 am
Fascism is a far-right phenomenon? … So is there any evidence to support the claim that right-wing regimes are more responsible for mass murder than left-wing regimes?
As a political philosophy, fascism is, and always has been, right-wing. Period. And while it (like other forms of extremism) has led its adherents to some rather despicable things, fascism does not equal mass murder. i.e. whether or not Stalin killed more people than Hitler makes him neither more nor less fascist.
How about this, “person”… please define what fascism means to you. I suspect it means whatever you need it to mean at any given moment — but I’m willing to let you give us your working definition before making the call.
person says:
March 22, 2011 at 11:55 am
How about this, “person”… please define what fascism means to you. I suspect it means whatever you need it to mean at any given moment — but I’m willing to let you give us your working definition before making the call.-Danny Boy
Now we get to the good stuff. Yes fascism is a right-wing phenomenon. Let us define this according to wikipedia-
Fascism (play /ˈfæʃɪzəm/) is a radical, authoritarian nationalist political ideology.[1][2] Fascists seek to organize a nation according to corporatist perspectives, values, and systems, including the political system and the economy.[3] They advocate the creation of a totalitarian single-party state that seeks the mass mobilization of a nation and the creation of an ideal “new man” to form a governing elite through indoctrination, physical education, and family policy including eugenics.[4] Fascists believe that a nation requires strong leadership, singular collective identity, and the will and ability to commit violence and wage war in order to keep the nation strong.[5] Fascist governments forbid and suppress opposition to the state.[6]
Fascism was founded by Italian national syndicalists in World War I who combined left-wing and right-wing political views, but it gravitated to the right in the early 1920s.[7][8] Scholars generally consider fascism to be on the far right.
Ok so the definition was first applied to both the left and right wing lunatic-fringe. However scholars chose to use the designation to be solely applied to right-wing extremists. However if you carefully read the definition you can see that the idea of a single-party state, new man, and forced indoctrination through education apply much more closely to the current liberal agenda. Besides doesn’t the terms Right, right-wing and rightist describe support for preserving traditional social orders and hierarchies? If so it is the liberal left who are the true right-wingers of our current society. The left controls the media, senate, presidency, education system, much of corporate America, and until recently the house of reprehensible. Since the traditionalists are into preserving their power status than it would make since to me that my definition of fascism does apply indeed and applies much more accurately to the modern brainwashed left lunatic-fringe. Please don’t respond with a series of stereotypes and talking points but rather consider citing evidence to the contrary.
March 22, 2011 at 12:01 pm
[T]he idea of a single-party state, new man, and forced indoctrination through education apply much more closely to the current liberal agenda … it is the liberal left who are the true right-wingers of our current society.
Just because you say something over and over again doesn’t make it true.
The very first lines of the definition you cite (“Fascism is a radical, authoritarian nationalist political ideology [seeking] to organize a nation according to corporatist perspectives, values, and systems”) clearly apply to one of the two major parties in our country, and it ain’t the Democrats.
Please don’t respond with a series of stereotypes and talking points but rather consider citing evidence to the contrary.
I would be happy to cite evidence to the contrary if your own “evidence” didn’t make my point so nicely.
person says:
March 22, 2011 at 12:24 pm
Nice evidence! You disproved my point that the leftist are now the one’s preserving their traditionalism. I mean I guess you left that part out as well as countering any argument I have made. All you have is your personal opinions and these seem to me based on political predispositions rather than on any evidence. Proceed and debunk my claim that the left has been more violent in modern history and that the American extreme left are fascist.
Wow says:
March 22, 2011 at 12:43 pm
person, you need to make an argument, not just argue.
Your trite bile filled ideological screed is not an argument, just a means to argue.
person says:
March 22, 2011 at 12:47 pm
Yes I agree that left wing radicalism is the new fascism. That was my argument and I take it as validated unless someone can refute it. Resorting to verbal attacks without countering my evidence shows that you my friend are the one who is arguing.
March 22, 2011 at 12:53 pm
[T]he leftist are now the one’s preserving their traditionalism.
Exactly. Because the Democrats are the ones screeching to anyone who will listen that allowing gays to marry will result in the destruction of Western Civilization.
I mean I guess you left that part out as well as countering any argument I have made.
Dude, your only semi-coherent “argument” is that Left is now Right, something flatly disproved by your own definition of “fascism”.
Proceed and debunk my claim that the left has been more violent in modern history
Even if I disagreed with your claim (which I do) what would be the point? “Who’s more violent” has nothing to do with “Who’s a fascist”.
and that the American extreme left are fascist.
person says:
March 22, 2011 at 1:07 pm
Yep you got me. My definition of fascism as given by Wikipedia. I never stated that the more violent you are equals your level of fascism. Why are you talking about this? Unfortunately you still are changing the definition of fascism to suit your political belief system. Yea my semi-coherent argument that those who hold the power structure and try to preserve it are rightists? Umm can’t quite follow you here you are leaving reasoning again and heading toward religious gullibility.
March 22, 2011 at 1:16 pm
Yes I agree that left wing radicalism is the new fascism.
And this started with a discussion over light bulbs? Seriously?
March 22, 2011 at 1:34 pm
Yep you got me. My definition of fascism as given by Wikipedia.
I asked for your definition of fascism. You responded with the Wikipedia entry. It’s not my fault if you feel saddled with it now.
I never stated that the more violent you are equals your level of fascism. Why are you talking about this?
You do realize you were the one who introduced the topic of mass-murder, right? Specifically, within the context of arguing that Lefties are fascists, because they are responsible for more killings than Righties. Reference posts #15 and #16.
Yea my semi-coherent argument that those who hold the power structure and try to preserve it are rightists?
Those who hold the power and try to preserve it are those who are in power. No more and no less. Or are you now suggesting Stalin and Mao were right-wingers?
You are flinging the term “fascist” about as a pejorative, with no clear understanding of what it means within an historical context.
You want to call the “radical Left” dangerous? Fine. (Although they are nowhere near as dangerous as your run-of-the-mill Tea Partier.)
Call them un-American? Cool. (But who made you the arbiter of American-ness?)
You want to label anyone who disagrees with the GOP a Commie Pinko? I can get behind that. (At least Communism is a left-wing philosophy.)
But the one thing the Left is not — cannot be by definition — is “fascist”.
person says:
March 22, 2011 at 2:02 pm
I asked for your definition of fascism. You responded with the Wikipedia entry. It’s not my fault if you feel saddled with it now.
And the problem is what? I guess you missed the definition. Should I re-post it?
You do realize you were the one who introduced the topic of mass-murder, right? Specifically, within the context of arguing that Lefties are fascists, because they are responsible for more killings than Righties. Reference posts #15 and #16.
Yes
You are flinging the term “fascist” about as a pejorative, with no clear understanding of what it means within an historical context.
No just going by the given Wikipedia definition. Once again those who hold to the current power-structure are rightist. The problem is the modern left applying labels to the right that they feel they are immune to.
You want to call the “radical Left” dangerous? Fine. (Although they are nowhere near as dangerous as your run-of-the-mill Tea Partier.)
Oh yes those violent tea party protesters. Once again the left protesting in Wisconsin with their destruction of government property, vehicles, and death threats should be ignored.
But the one thing the Left is not — cannot be by definition — is “fascist”.
Your label of left or mine has no bearing on what party is currently truly the conservative or liberal party. Since modern democrats are in control of the establishment for the most part they are now conserving their power structure which makes them the true conservatives. The right are really the present day liberals because they are fighting the orthodoxy of the left.
For the record I am not a Republican or a Demoncrat but believe in a very small central government. Neither Repubicklans or Dems are looking out for the best interest of the people. The best interest of the people is for the government to get out of their business or else we will have fascism from the left and or right. Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts completely.
Wow says:
March 22, 2011 at 2:02 pm
“And this started with a discussion over light bulbs? Seriously?”
No, it started with a bigot exploding at the mouth.
The problem is, see, “person” isn’t in charge any more. There are black people and people to the left of him in power now. And it frightens him.
Why?
Because when “his side” was in power, he handed them the keys to his life and now fears that power he gave up willingly is being used against him, as opposed to people not him (as was his intent).
Just simple panic and the day-after-blues. Waking up, looking at the double-bagger next to him and going “oh shit”.
But, as opposed to taking on blame for his actions, he blames instead those who have the powers he gave them.
person says:
March 22, 2011 at 2:08 pm
The problem is, see, “person” isn’t in charge any more. There are black people and people to the left of him in power now. And it frightens him.
Why?
Because when “his side” was in power, he handed them the keys to his life and now fears that power he gave up willingly is being used against him, as opposed to people not him (as was his intent).
Yes this is why the democratic party is responsible for the murder of millions of blacks and minorities. This is why planned parenthood has adopted the creed of the NAZI Margaret Sanger to eliminate minority races. Yep you got me on that one.
person says:
March 22, 2011 at 2:12 pm
Yes the democrats looking out for the rights of the minorities. Martin Luther King was a democrat? Umm how about Lincoln? Why is it that Planned Parenthood has adopted the creed of Margaret Sanger who can be quoted with a desire to destroy minorities and preserve the white race? Good points those racist MLK lovers and lovers of equal rights.
March 22, 2011 at 2:16 pm
No just going by the given Wikipedia definition. Once again those who hold to the current power-structure are rightist.
Where, exactly, does the definition say this? I’ve read it several times and can’t find anything about the “current power structure”.
I would agree with the premise that most politicians drift the center once elected (see Barack Obama) which by definition means someone on the Left moves towards the Right (and vice versa). But for you, the take-home from the Wikipedia definition of “fascist” is a redefinition of “right-wing” as “whoever is currently in power”.
[W]e will have fascism from the left and or right.
March 22, 2011 at 2:17 pm
person, why are you equating liberals with Stalin and Mao? Are you seriously claiming that increased tolerance for gays and ethnic minorities – one political goal of US liberals – is characteristic of totalitarian communists?
The only right wing accusation that makes sense if you don’t look at it too closely is that liberals acknowledge the necessity for taxes, which is sort of socialistic, if you contrast it to folks who never admit that taxes can be lowered too much. But to that extent, it also resembles monarchies, oligarchies, and most other governments. Tea Partiers share their distaste for taxes with anarchists – does that make you an anarchist?
If any concept is central to the definition of fascism, it is the state working hand-in-hand with corporations. It’s the GOP that is turning the US economy, the military, state prisons, schools, and even voting rights (one dollar, one vote) to corporations.
Look at Governor Walker and his attack on unions – this is not a socialist act – nor a liberal one!
“Fascist” doesn’t mean simply “bad” (or should I say “ungood”?). It is a particular sort of government.
March 22, 2011 at 2:24 pm
Mike, this lightbulb nonsense is not new. Over a year ago I met a fella who confided in m that he was hoarding incandescent light bulbs, and fully intended to get rich selling them on the black market after the light bulb mafia forced all the liberal dupes into buying the new CFLs.
After he “explained” it several times, I still hadn’t a clue how this was supposed to work.
March 22, 2011 at 2:26 pm
Yes this is why the democratic party is responsible for the murder of millions of blacks and minorities.
This is why planned parenthood has adopted the creed of the NAZI Margaret Sanger to eliminate minority races.
Margaret Sanger was undoubtedly a proponent of eugenics, and may have been racist, but she was most definitely NOT a Nazi. For one thing, she felt the regulation of birth control (and thus “racial regeneration”) should be left to individuals, not the state, a belief clearly at odds with Nazi ideology.
Martin Luther King was a democrat? Umm how about Lincoln?
If you think either Lincoln or MLK would embrace (or be embraced by) today’s GOP, well… I’m gonna refrain from the ad hominem attack and just say, “You’re wrong.”
March 22, 2011 at 2:41 pm
I never stated that the more violent you are equals your level of fascism.
You do realize you were the one who introduced the topic of mass-murder, right? Specifically, within the context of arguing that Lefties are fascists, because they are responsible for more killings than Righties.
Yes
March 22, 2011 at 4:55 pm
If the new light bulbs save energy why is she against them? Too close to shared sacrifice for her and her followers?
March 23, 2011 at 6:22 am
@Schmice: No idea. If she’d complained about the environmental hazards of CFLs, I would have at least understood it. Assuming that the information at the EPA website is correct, the amount of mercury released from a broken CFL is considerably less than the amount of mercury that would be released by a coal burning plant to power the equivalent light output incandescent bulbs needed to provide light for the lifetime of a single CFL.
Wow says:
March 23, 2011 at 7:04 am
“Yes this is why the democratic party is responsible for the murder of millions of blacks and minorities.”
By not stopping Republicans killing blacks, hispaics and other minorities.
Chris F. says:
March 25, 2011 at 2:01 pm
Somewhere in the depths of Hell, Stalin and his ilk are pointing and laughing at how the United States, decades after the Berlin Wall came down, continues this wild-eyed shadow boxing with the Communist Menace. The commies couldn’t defeat the Western powers head-on, but they triggered this crazy auto-immune response that’s slowly killing American’s ability to respond to problems rationally.
Person: your mindset is Uncle Joe Stalin’s revenge on this once great country.
March 26, 2011 at 1:02 pm
Margaret Sanger was undoubtedly a proponent of eugenics, and may have been racist, but she was most definitely NOT a Nazi. For one thing, she felt the regulation of birth control (and thus “racial regeneration”) should be left to individuals, not the state, a belief clearly at odds with Nazi ideology.
Captain patriot says:
March 30, 2011 at 1:50 pm
Global warming is a nonexistant problem. The whole global warming scam was made up in order for wealth redistribution and marxism to thrive.
As for real light bulbs, stockpile them now by the thousands. They will be worth a fortune on the balck market when the econazis finally force people againt their will to purchase their mercury laden household threat lightbulbs.
You need to read “The Global Warming Deception” by Grant Jeffrey. Of course I realized this whole econazi crap was a scam long before this book came out. Someone should be prosecuted for this evil fascist shit.
Captain patriot says:
March 30, 2011 at 2:01 pm
The left are control freaks of the highest order. They want to control what we eat, how much water is flushed in toilets, what kind of light bulbs people must buy, etc. They want total control over every aspect of every life on the planet except their own.
“socialism is for the people, not the socialists”. Ever notice how the control freak socialists NEVER practice what they preach? Example – Al Gore. He wants everyone to cut down on their use of fuel and electricity while he uses more than most of some small states. What a freakish hypocrit fascist. All of the left wing radical socialist dictators are like this. They tell everyone else what to do, but never do it themsleves. To hell with them all. Let freedom ring. Destroy marxist fascism.
March 30, 2011 at 7:40 pm
I never stated that the more violent you are equals your level of fascism.
The Gipper says:
April 1, 2011 at 3:09 pm
Well, I hope it was a teabag she was holding up there, and not something else (yeccch!). But she sure needs a tune-up in US History.
Rick Blaine says:
April 1, 2011 at 3:20 pm
“On her way out, Dee Hogan of Nashua told me she would gladly vote for Bachmann. `I don’t appreciate that your next-door neighbor is going to start yelling at me, telling me to shut my lights off when they have that shut-your-lights-off thingee. I don’t want people in my face, telling me what to do.`”
I think Ms Hogan is one of those `baggers who _seriously_ believes that Obama is going to send some Gubmint storm troopers in black helicopters to land in her back yard, and confiscate all the guns from her house.
The Gipper says:
April 1, 2011 at 5:04 pm
“Just so long as it’s possible to still buy incandescents for specialist applications, such as heating reptile enclosures.”
The short answer is “Yes”, they`re not covered under the bill. But you would never know that, if you listen to the likes of the Northern Ice Princess from Minnesota.
The Gipper says:
April 1, 2011 at 5:09 pm
“Just so long as it’s possible to still buy incandescents for specialist applications, such as heating reptile enclosures.”
The short answer is “Yes”, they`re not covered under the bill. But you would never know that, if you listen to the likes of the Northern Ice Princess from Minnesota.
Rick Blaine says:
April 1, 2011 at 8:32 pm
“If you think either Lincoln or MLK would embrace (or be embraced by) today’s GOP, well… I’m gonna refrain from the ad hominem attack and just say, `You’re wrong.`”
All anyone has to do is ask whether today`s GOP would accept Dwight Eisenhower as their nominee. That answers both questions.
Rick Blaine says:
May 6, 2011 at 4:02 pm
“Global warming is a nonexistant problem. The whole global warming scam was made up in order for wealth redistribution and marxism to thrive. ”
Average annual temparatures have risen steadily for over 100 years now, but not consistently everywhere. Which is why I think “Global Warming” is a misnomer. Temperature patterns have clearly been disturbed.
Still, there is no denying that the earth`s icecaps have been melting. There is no “wealth redistribution and marxism” in pointing this out. But there is plenty of resistance from big business, and their stooges (could you be one of them?).
| 35,064 |
We are all made of so many colors. There are days when I feel black…dark…a void of too many or not enough color. Other days, I feel neon or pastel or vibrantly primary. Mostly, I feel like a rainbow, a bit of every color joined to create a swirling mix of complexity.
My marriage is similar.
Some days it seems like a watercolor with too much water, washed out and tired, soaking the paper to soggy bits. Other days, it seems like fire, licking reds and oranges. Most often, it is a soft shade of gray or blue, comfortable and inviting.
Night before last, my husband and I had a serious conversation. As I tried hard to give advice and insight to a writerly acquaintance on twitter, we discussed our own issues in relation. We talked about his (my husband’s) insecurities and my inhibitions. We talked about our trust issues and our unwillingness to forgive.
It’s hard to make it clear to an audience that is not in our home living our narrative, but I was actually rather logical (which isn’t really like me, since I tend to be hyper-emotional at most times). I told him I wanted him to feel free to be himself, and that I wanted to find a way for us to both be happy in this marriage. Of course that is so much easier than it sounds.
My husband would love an open, polyamorous, adventurous sex life. I would prefer it to be close, monogamous, and intimate. I don’t think the two are mutually exclusive, but I’ve yet to figure out how to make it work…with both of us feeling completely fulfilled.
However, we aren’t giving up.
That night…his sexsomnia kicked in, within minutes of him coming to bed. He reached over me, nestled his face into my neck, and began kissing and sucking my earlobe. He rubbed his dick between my ass cheeks and breathed in to my neck.
Now I’ll be honest. Some nights, it’s easy to put him off…to push him away, and he just rolls over and goes to sleep, none the wiser. And since he isn’t really awake, I don’t have to feel bad about him feeling rejected. He never remembers it in the morning. But, the other night, as he rubbed himself against me, I found myself full of desire. I pushed into him and writhed against him until he reached his hand between my legs and slipped his fingers between my labia to find my clit. He rubbed it gently until I rolled toward him and splayed my legs wide, offering myself up to him. His fingers slipped into me two and three at a time, alternating between rubbing and thrusting. I bucked and wriggled until he finally moved between my thighs and began licking and sucking as I moaned and whimpered in response. As I came, he devoured me.
When he asked me if I wanted his dick, I said yes, sure that…at this point…he was awake.
He moved up and over me and plunged his hard cock into me. I was so wet I squelched around him and instantly came more as he pushed in and out.
He grabbed a handful of my hair and told me to come. I was undone. I seeped in to the sheets almost instantaneously. And he melted as I did it. I know that my reactions to his demands impact him in the same way that they do me. He came and I came and we soaked the bed. And he called me his “good girl.”
It’s hard for me to know exactly when he woke up and realized what was going on. But, I do know that I walked away from it feeling closer to him and more hopeful. Our conversation was deep and uncovered some fears and insecurities.
I still haven’t initiated sex. This week, I’ve been abnormally exhausted. And yes, my excuses are as plentiful and colorful as that rainbow in this week’s Wicked Wednesday prompt. But, I can also say that my love for him is just as beautiful and complex. Just as natural and awe-inspiring.
Related
You May Also Like
Goals for improving my sex life in 2018
January 2, 2018
November 23, 2018
December 30, 2020
February 7, 2018 at 4:53 pm Reply
You two are working so hard at making this work and I have the feeling you are going to find a way to fulfill both your needs.
Mrs Fever
February 8, 2018 at 2:43 am Reply
'Sexsomnia' was a new term for me. It sounds much more pleasurable than sleepwalking!
if somewhat lofty – goal; I hope you each find balance within compromise. <3
February 8, 2018 at 11:48 pm Reply
I really hope you two find a way through this. You both seem very committed to the doing so which I think makes it far more likely you will. I will say though that having been in a relationship were I was also the one who instigated sex, being often regretted really does take its toll. Every now and then he would be better and I would convince myself he was changing but he would would always slip back to 'being too tired' 'got a headache' etc. I guess what I am trying to say is just be cautious that you are not slowly creating resentment because in my experience that resentment once it sets in is hard to break and in our case, was a huge contributing factor to our divorce
February 9, 2018 at 4:53 am Reply
Oh, my lack of interest in sex has caused plenty of resentment on his part and guilt on mine, and it's the main reason we've walked the wire of near divorce more than once. And you are spot on that it is hard to heal that sort of wound. His sexual needs are not fulfilled by me, which is why they are on hiatus. And my low libido has led to a deepening of his depression, which has also decreased HIS libido. My lack of sexual consistency has been maddening for him, and I can understand that. However, I also have not done it on purpose. Therein lies the guilt. If I could rev up my libido and want sex enough and initiate it enough to keep him happy, I'd be thrilled. We have yet to see if that will happen, and I understand that no matter how much I want it to, it may never.
February 9, 2018 at 6:26 pm Reply
I realise that my comment might have sounded like I was blaming, I was not, merely trying to share an experience that might be relevant. Mismatched libidos are an utter bitch in my opinion. I hope you guys find a way through this, I know that opening a marriage can be very challenging but it is definitely a possibly solution that might help with this
Leave a Reply Cancel reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Δ
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
Please leave this field empty
When I post new content, you'll be the first to know.
Check your inbox or spam folder to confirm your subscription.
Top Posts
What is a Soft Dom?
Discipline, Punishment, and Correction in a D/s Relationship
14 Qualities of a "Good" Dominant
Submissive or Dominant?
Contracts & Negotiation in a D/s Relationship
I’m not sure why I looked up. I wasn’t drawn by lustful moans or the slick scent of hidden sex. …
“I am sooooo sorry! I assumed it was a euphemism!” “No. It was not a euphemism. We’re really looking for an …
(Image source: istock.com) “You want this, don’t you?” Reaching into her cleavage, she pulled out a hint of wire. …
“No one can hold you accountable now. So, you can tell me the truth. Did you kill him?” The old …
Before I opened my eyes, I already knew something was wrong. The smell was off. A black, heavy feeling, like …
© Brigit Delany 2022. All rights reserved.
Ashe Theme by WP Royal.
Are you 18 or older? This website contains material that is not suitable for readers under the age of 18. Please verify your age to view the content, or click "Exit" to leave. Content Warning: If you are sensitive to content referring to dominance and submission, please proceed with caution.
| 8,084 |
I have been following Julia Camerons book – The artists way. One of its many exercises is going back in time and exploring childhood incidents that could have blocked my creativity. This story was buried deep in the recess of my memory. And today, on Guru Poornima day, it all came back rather vividly. A careful examination of the events tells me that this incident could not have caused me any real mental harm. But hey! Who knows what goes on in the inner workings of our minds.
I studied in a convent school. The teachers were old school. They expected discipline, neat handwriting and encouraged us to use archaic words like yours faithfully, in letter writing. And in this scenario – in walked our brand new class teacher. She was like a breath of fresh air in our very convented upbringing. We girls were immediately smitten by her crisp cotton saris, sleeveless blouses and different style of teaching.
as our english teacher she constantly encouraged us to read the right kind of stories. She introduced us to books like ‘Sybil’ and often read out entire chapters of the latest novels, to hook us to the story. She then encouraged us to borrow these books from the library. So, like any other non-rebellious students we all wanted to impress her with our essays and our answers.
But even in the best intended teachers lurks an evil heart. She once asked us to write an essay on ‘My Nightmare.’ I was all of 14 or maybe 15 and thought long and hard on the topic. The usual nightmare of ghosts and death and murder were too obvious and a no no. I decided to explore my inner demons instead.
I do not recall the exact essay. But I do remember that my nightmare was wanting to urgently get out of bed in the middle of the night to investigate a strange noise. And I tried very hard to bring out the nightmare of not being able to do so. Because it was dead of winter and the floor was freezing cold. My essay was a young girls amateurish exploration of the fight between mind and body. Written in my neatest handwriting and handed over well within the deadline set by Mrs ‘I am the greatest gift to my students.’
Eventually, our assignment was graded and handed back to us. My notebook took some time to get back. That’s because, Mrs ‘Smug and I am the greatest gift to my students’ had decided to read out my essay in class without saying anything about it. Half way through the reading Rukmini – a classmate turned around and congratulated me on an essay well written.
I wasn’t so sure. There was disapproval in the voice that was reading out my carefully thought out words. “I don’t think she is praising it,” I whispered back. When she reached the part about my not wanting to step on the cold floor, she started her analysis of my character and personality. Then with a semi sneer on her face she handed me my notebook across which she had scrawled in big fat red pen. Your lackadaisical attitude comes through in your essay!
At 14 I had a poorer vocab than today and wasn’t sure what it meant. So I pulled out my little oxford dictionary from my school bag (no google back then) and proceeded to figure out what my attitude really was. The dictionary said – Eschewing enthusiasm – so I had to start searching in e, es..esche…
And while I was researching all this – I almost missed hearing Rukmini declare that she thought my essay was fine.
For that my dear class mate of Carmel, I will be forever grateful.
I was used to being the bad student in class, and didn’t even bother to question our teacher’s judgement. But enough about teachers or Gurus who pull us down.
I would much rather remember the kind gentle teachers who made the effort to talk to me and figure out that my gifts and my intelligence lay in directions other than academics.
So on this Guru Poornima – Thank you to Miss Bhagirathi, Mrs Thomas, Teacher Mary, Mrs Sen (Aunty B) my maths teacher, Reva Dhawan and many many more. May their tribe grow.
October 16, 2022
July 13, 2022
From Superwoman to flawed ordinariness in the stroke of a 3.5 minute ad
May 8, 2022
Reach out today, to manage your digital advertising challenges
For some art and business are two different silos. But it is when they intersect that brands and organisations can achieve greater consumer reach than they thought possible.
So, if you are looking to develop a targetted strategy and tell compelling stories, do get in touch. Click on the link below.
| 4,513 |
Bueu is a coastal city in Spain. It is a relatively small coastal town close to the ocean with a population of 12331 people. The water temperature around Bueu varies slightly throughout the year. The temperature ranges from 11.9°C (53.4°F) in February up to 17.4°C (63.3°F) in the month of September, as shown in the graph below. The average water temperature throughout the year is 15°C (59°F) and the best time for water activities is early fall, since Bueu is located in the northern hemisphere.
What is the current water temperature near Bueu?
The current water temperature in the month of December near Bueu is approximately:
Are there surf spots close by?
Yes, there are several surf spots in proximity to Bueu. The nearest one is Playa Areas-Los Muertos, which is just 4.6km (3.7miles) away from Bueu. Click here for directions and to check out more information on Playa Areas-Los Muertos and its water temperature. Other good surfspots near Bueu are Montalvo Beach, which is approximately 6km (3.7miles) away, and Cabo Home, located roughly 6.6km (4.1miles) from Bueu.
Are there nice beaches close by?
Yes, there are a few other gorgeous beaches close to Bueu. The closest one is Barro, which is just 17.9km (11.1miles) away from Bueu. Another gorgeous beach near Bueu is Río San Pedro beach, which is ca 19.3km (12miles) away.
What kind of wetsuit thickness do I need for Bueu?
The water temperature around Bueu is relatively cold, reaching up to 17°C (63°F) in the months of August, September, and October. During this time, in the early fall, a 2-3mm wetsuit might be required to feel comfortable, but some might even be fine with a jumpsuit or even a wetsuit top for surfing, swimming, snorkelling, or scuba diving . However, during January, February, and March, water temperatures drop down to 12°C (53°F). During these months, a 4/3 wetsuit is recommended to be able to stay in the water for a significant amount of time, but some people might even be fine with a good 2/3mm suit . For very windy conditions and cold mornings/evenings, it might be advisable to carry a pair of boots and a wetsuit hoodie.
How is the scuba diving and fishing close to Bueu?
Due to relatively large temperature changes during the year, diving and fishing conditions vary quite a bit depending on the time of the year. The temperature ranges from 12 to 17°C (53-62°F) during January, February, and March. Atlantic Mackerel, Winter Flounder, and Tautog love this temperature range. However, the conditions change during August, September, and October when temperatures range from 12 to 17°C (54-63°F). Fish which like to swim in waters of this temperature range include: Red Snapper, Skipjack Tuna, Striped Bass, and Weakfish.
Directions to Bueu: How do I get there?
Please follow the directions in the map below.
Do you know what the the city Hendijan in Iran, the city Krajanjugosari in Indonesia, and the city Roxas City in Philippines have in common with Bueu? Click on the links to find out...
| 3,115 |
Hundreds of Republicans running for national and statewide offices have questioned or spread misinformation about the 2020 election, in some cases outright denying President Biden’s victory. To understand how thoroughly these views have seeped into American politics, my colleagues Karen Yourish and Danielle Ivory combed through statements from more than 550 Republican candidates. I spoke with them about what they found.
Ashley: Why do many Republicans continue to question the 2020 election?
Danielle: There are candidates who seem to genuinely believe what they’re saying, and some who probably feel like they have to talk about it. Donald Trump and many of the party’s core supporters have made questioning 2020 a litmus test for Republican candidates.
Some Republicans have learned that they can’t drop this issue because there’s pressure from Trump or the people around him. One example is Tim Michels, a candidate for governor in Wisconsin. He said he would not prioritize decertification of the 2020 election, which is not legally possible. Then there was an uproar from Trump’s camp. So Michels started promoting “2000 Mules,” a documentary that purports to show election fraud but is based on an erroneous premise.
You put the candidates into different categories: those who openly said the election was stolen and those who questioned the election in other ways. Why distinguish between them?
Karen: We wanted to help readers understand the range of ways that candidates are promoting misinformation about 2020. We felt it was incorrect to label all candidates who questioned specific aspects of the election — including many who voted to object to the Electoral College count on Jan. 6 — as “election deniers.” There has been a lot of coverage on the most extreme examples, the people who explicitly say that the election was stolen. But many others cast doubt, often frequently, in ways that might seem more reasonable but are possibly more insidious.
What are some of those ways?
Karen: A great example is Robert Burns, a New Hampshire House candidate. In a local TV news interview in February, he said he didn’t believe that the “stolen election is a winning issue.” He then went on to say that Trump did not get more votes than Biden, but votes were “absolutely” stolen, without actually saying that the whole election was fraudulent.
Another is Senator Mike Lee of Utah, who said on C-SPAN that “President Biden is the president of the United States” but then added that the conspiracy film “2000 Mules” raised “significant questions as to what might have happened” in the election and that those allegations should be investigated.
Many candidates have recently taken to promoting an unfounded theory that the media, Facebook and the F.B.I. conspired to interfere in the 2020 election by censoring coverage of a negative news story about Hunter Biden, the president’s son.
What surprised you about your findings?
Danielle: Falsehoods about the election seem to have staying power that I didn’t expect, and that resilience seems increasingly relevant as we head into the midterm elections. So we thought it was important to separate out more recent statements about the election, almost two years after Donald Trump lost, versus those that were made in 2020 or 2021.
What do your findings mean for next month’s midterm elections?
Danielle: Hundreds of the candidates we identified as questioning the past presidential election are favored to win their races and take office. They represent a growing consensus in the Republican Party and a potential threat to one of the bedrock principles of democracy — that voters decide elections and candidates accept the results. And we will be interested to see how these candidates react if they do not win.
Read the investigation here.
Karen Yourish joined The Times in 2013 from The Washington Post. She has read all of Donald Trump’s tweets (twice) and watched more than 1,000 episodes of “Tucker Carlson Tonight.” Danielle Ivory joined The Times in 2013 from Bloomberg News. She has led efforts to collect and analyze data on Covid deaths in nursing homes and Russia’s war strategy in Ukraine.
For more
“These people are SICK”: Polarizing rhetoric has become entrenched among House Republicans.
Some voters have already lost faith in the ability of America’s system of government to represent them.
War in Ukraine
Xi Jinping formally secured another term as head of China’s Communist Party. Follow our updates.
What Xi doesn’t say is as revealing as what he does. Key omissions from his messages at the Communist Party congress suggested worry about threats ahead.
The former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson returned home yesterday from a vacation abroad, feeding expectations that he would seek another term.
Liz Truss’s resignation was a result of the fallout from Brexit and the opposing factions it created among British conservatives, experts said.
Hurricane Roslyn is expected to bring high winds and heavy rainfall to west-central Mexico as it makes landfall today.
Cases of the flu and other viruses are returning in the U.S. and could collide with an expected winter rise in Covid infections.
New York City will increase the presence of police officers on the subway.
Liberals must confront the demands of the Trumpist right and the illiberal left, not just denounce them, Ross Douthat argues in his inaugural newsletter. Sign up to receive it.
Truss turned out to be a stooge for Boris Johnson, Maureen Dowd writes.
The politics of Los Angeles’s affordable housing crisis are terrible. The politics of what’s needed to solve it are worse, Ezra Klein says.
New York has a long history of moderate Republican governors. Lee Zeldin is not part of that tradition, The Times’s editorial board writes in its endorsement of Gov. Kathy Hochul.
The Sunday question: Has Xi Jinping made China stronger?
As he begins his third term as China’s leader, Xi has grown its economy, strengthened its military and made himself its most dominant politician since Mao, Bloomberg Opinion’s editorial board argues. But an economic slowdown, Xi’s disruptive zero-Covid strategy and his increasingly dictatorial rule could threaten those successes, says CNN’s Selina Wang.
Eat: This Salisbury steak is no TV dinner.
Read the full issue.
What to Watch For
Britain’s Conservative Party plans to select a new prime minister this week.
Candidates will meet for debates on several nights this week, including in Florida’s governor’s race tomorrow and Pennsylvania’s Senate matchup on Tuesday.
The Trump Organization will face trial on Monday in a New York State Court on tax fraud and other charges.
Two Minneapolis officers involved in George Floyd’s death go to trial on Monday on state charges.
The W.N.B.A. star Brittney Griner is due in court on Tuesday in Russia to appeal her drug conviction.
The deadline for Elon Musk, Tesla’s C.E.O., to complete an acquisition of Twitter is Friday.
| 7,221 |
19 Jacob said to his father, “I am Esau your firstborn; I have done just as you told me; please arise, sit and eat of my game, that your soul may bless me.”
20 But Isaac said to his son, “How is it that you have found it so quickly, my son?”
And he said, “Because the Lord your God brought it to me.”
21 Isaac said to Jacob, “Please come near, that I may feel you, my son, whether you are really my son Esau or not.” 22 So Jacob went near to Isaac his father, and he felt him and said, “The voice is Jacob’s voice, but the hands are the hands of Esau.” 23 And he did not recognize him, because his hands were hairy like his brother Esau’s hands; so he blessed him.
24 Then he said, “Are you really my son Esau?”
He said, “I am.”
25 He said, “Bring it near to me, and I will eat of my son’s game, so that my soul may bless you.” So he brought it near to him, and he ate; and he brought him wine, and he drank. 26 Then his father Isaac said to him, “Come near now and kiss me, my son.” 27 And he came near and kissed him; and he smelled the smell of his clothing, and blessed him and said:
“Surely, the smell of my son
Is like the smell of a field
Which the Lord has blessed.
28 Therefore may God give you
Of the fatness of the earth,
And plenty of grain and wine.
29 Let peoples serve you,
And nations bow down to you.
And let your mother’s sons bow down to you.
Cursed be everyone who curses you,
And blessed be those who bless you!”
30 Now it happened, as soon as Isaac had finished blessing Jacob, and Jacob had scarcely gone out from the presence of Isaac his father, that Esau his brother came in from his hunting. 31 He also had made savory food, and brought it to his father, and said to his father, “Let my father arise and eat of his son’s game, that your soul may bless me.”
32 And his father Isaac said to him, “Who are you?”
So he said, “I am your son, your firstborn, Esau.”
33 Then Isaac trembled exceedingly, and said, “Who? Where is the one who hunted game and brought it to me? I ate all of it before you came, and I have blessed him—and indeed he shall be blessed.”
34 When Esau heard the words of his father, he cried with an exceedingly great and bitter cry, and said to his father, “Bless me—me also, O my father!”
35 But he said, “Your brother came with deceit and has taken away your blessing.”
36 And Esau said, “Is he not rightly named Jacob? For he has supplanted me these two times. He took away my birthright, and now look, he has taken away my blessing!” And he said, “Have you not reserved a blessing for me?”
37 Then Isaac answered and said to Esau, “Indeed I have made him your master, and all his brethren I have given to him as servants; with grain and wine I have sustained him. What shall I do now for you, my son?”
38 And Esau said to his father, “Have you only one blessing, my father? Bless me—me also, O my father!” And Esau lifted up his voice and wept.
39 Then Isaac his father answered and said to him:
“Behold, your dwelling shall be of the fatness of the earth,
40 By your sword you shall live,
And you shall serve your brother;
And it shall come to pass, when you become restless,
That you shall break his yoke from your neck.”
41 So Esau hated Jacob because of the blessing with which his father blessed him, and Esau said in his heart, “The days of mourning for my father are at hand; then I will kill my brother Jacob.”
42 And the words of Esau her older son were told to Rebekah. So she sent and called Jacob her younger son, and said to him, “Surely your brother Esau comforts himself concerning you by intending to kill you. 43 Now therefore, my son, obey my voice: arise, flee to my brother Laban in Haran. 44 And stay with him a few days, until your brother’s fury turns away, 45 until your brother’s anger turns away from you, and he forgets what you have done to him; then I will send and bring you from there. Why should I be bereaved also of you both in one day?”
46 And Rebekah said to Isaac, “I am weary of my life because of the daughters of Heth; if Jacob takes a wife of the daughters of Heth, like these who are the daughters of the land, what good will my life be to me?”
Previous
Next
October 16, 2022
Let as many bondservants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and His doctrine may not be blasphemed. 2 And those who have…
Next Event
November 27, 2022
Sunday 10:00-11:30a Our service starts with a contemporary worship followed by verse-by-verse teaching of God’s Word.
| 4,807 |
Swimming is a sporty, fun and playful activity that allows teenage girls to have a good figure. However, before jumping into the pool, it is necessary to find a swimsuit and not just any one.
1 Choosing a one-piece swimsuit
2 Choosing a two-piece swimsuit
4 A few practical tips to help you make the right choice
This essential accessory must be chosen according to several criteria, especially for a sensitive age like your daughter's. If you are struggling to find the perfect swimsuit, we give you the best tips to avoid making the wrong choice.
Choosing a one-piece swimsuit
As its name suggests, the one-piece swimsuit which covers the entire front of the body. Most of the models of this accessory have an often open back. Among the many back designs, there are Y, U, X and O shapes. Some designs are strapless while others are decollars.
As you've probably already realized, there are many different shapes for a one-piece swimsuit. It is up to you to make the most practical choice. However, some factors can influence your choices, including the morphology of your child.
Already, if she wants to hide her belly, the one-piece swimsuit is for her the best option. The choice of the other forms of the
design can then be influenced by the fact of wanting to hide this or that part of the body. Finally, we have to come back to the choice of color. It is advisable to take dark colors to enhance the figure of your daughter.
How to choose an above ground pool?
Choosing a two-piece swimsuit
The two-piece swimsuit consists of a top and a bottom. Whether it is the top or the bottom, each piece of this set is available in different models.
For the top, we distinguish the sliding triangles, headband, underwires and balconnet. As for the bottom, you can choose between the shorty, panties or briefs bresiliens.
The advantage of the two-piece swimsuit is the possibility to choose each of these elements separately. It is in this category of swimsuit that we find bikinis. For trips to the beach or pool for fun, you can opt for a bikini in your daughter's size.
However, you must be careful when choosing, because this type of swimsuit is known for to enhance the woman's body.
Compare the color of your swimming accessory to your skin tone. Swimsuits come in a variety of colors. wide range of solid colors and prints. So you can express your style according to your taste. Find a solid color or print that you like and that matches your skin tone. For example, you could go for a red and white polka dot style for a vintage look. A pattern with pink designs would be ideal for reveal more of your femininity. And it's also very romantic. If you are a little darker skinned, a dark brown color will suit your complexion.
5 original tips to give a wooden furniture a new look
All in all, the choice of the ideal swimsuit depends on each person. However, it is important to note that consider the criteria listed above.
A few practical tips to help you make the right choice
To successfully choose a teenage swimsuit, you need to focus on quality. Make sure you choose a swimsuit designed in a soft matter which will not cause any irritation to the skin.
Apart from that, the choice of the size is also a determining factor in your choice.
The swimsuit should not be too big or too small, but rather the perfect size. Do not hesitate to make some tests before you check out.
Finally, the color of the swimsuit is the only factor that should not be complicated to choose. Get to this stage, just trust the teenagers, they will know what to choose!
| 3,657 |
My previous Top 10 List was about being raised by parents from the Gulf region. I come from a moderately conservative family. We are not liberal, but we’re also not extremely conservative or religious. Here’s a link for that post if you missed it.
Today’s list includes the top 10 things that I like about being a blogger. I started this blog in September 2012 to showcase my writing to potential employers. Now, it’s more of a hobby and sometimes feels like a full-time role!
I present to you the top reasons that keep me hooked to writing blog posts:
I can work from almost any location that I feel like working from. Writing blog posts can be done from the comfort of my bed, a cafe across the road, or even from the beach if I had the time and luxury of carrying around a laptop, and a beach bag full of beach essentials.
Jumeirah Mosque view at this Starbucks Middle East location
I can write posts at any time of the day. On most days, I have a couple of things to get done. So, blogging is something that might not come at the top of my priority list. That’s when I can write in the evenings – when most people are watching TV, reading, socializing, or out having dinner or drinks. This point can be a disadvantage to blogging too. But that will be discussed in another post
I get to do creative work, that I choose myself, without any supervision or editing from another party. Unlike working for a publishing house and adhering to certain rules and regulations, blogging gives the writer the freedom of expression and writing within their personal set of rules and limitations.
I get invited to review restaurant meals, spa treatments and other cool stuff. When I first started the blog, I was reviewing these things anyway, because I enjoyed it. After some time of hard work, the blog gained more followers and I started to get invites to review meals, and other stuff. The only issue these days is that, with my University course work, I don’t have the same free time I used to have when I first started the blog. That’s why, I don’t write as many reviews as I used to in the past.
Being a blogger means that I’m considered as a media person. This grants me access to events as press. It also allows me to network with other media professionals, and others from the media industry.
One thing that I really like about blogging is meeting other bloggers. Whether they are based in the same city, or on another continent, it’s always great to meet like-minded people. Most bloggers share many traits in common; they are interesting, determined and curious individuals. We love to learn new things, and we are pretty good in taking action.
What I just Love the Blog and I catching up over lunch
Blogging allows me to share my thoughts, experiences, views and ideas with my readers. It makes me so ecstatic to hear that a reader found my post insightful, or that they learned so many things from it. It equally brightens my day when someone tells me that what I wrote resonates with their own experience very strongly.
I love that blogging has helped me practice – and hopefully – improve my writing skills. I think most of all, it gave me the confidence that I needed to keep writing. It helped me stay focused on my goal of becoming a better writer and journalist.
It helped me build on my social and networking skills. I started to attend all kinds of events when I started this blog. This was mainly to meet new people and to generate blog content. It was very exciting to meet people from different backgrounds and industries. At that time, I was mixing with people from the fashion, arts, food or media industries. That fitted well with the blog concept, as I was writing a lifestyle blog that covered all these topics. Nowadays, I still enjoy attending random events. But due to my time constraints, I have to be more selective with the events that I choose to attend. Of course once I’m done with my course, I should be able to attend more events and network with people from various communities.
Being a blogger who doesn’t outsource anything to another party means that you need a set of multiple skills. I truly enjoy being the following:
The editor who comes up with the idea for the post.
The photographer who takes the pictures for the post.
The writer and editor who writes and then edits the words and images.
The marketing and PR person who promotes the blog.
The social media person who promotes the blog and the posts on social media.
The communications person who attends events and tells people about the blog.
The entrepreneurial spirit who constantly goes through ups and downs, but never gives up.
As you can see, blogging is a very fun and engaging way to communicate with others and express your feelings and thoughts through words. I love hearing positive feedback as much as I love hearing critical remarks. So feel free to leave a comment or not
The next post will be a list of the things that I don’t like about being a blogger. So stay tuned for that!
Till then, Have a wonderful weekend ahead. No matter how you choose to spend it!
XXX
Coffee breaks are more fun when blogging is involved
Posted on February 18, 2015 February 18, 2015 Author Nada Al GhowainimCategories Blogging, Cafes, Creativity, Discussions, Featured, Life in Dubai, Media, Networking, Opinion, Personal Post, Photography, Publishing, Self-development, Top 10 List, Undefined Declarations' ListTags advantages of blogging, aspiring journalist, benefits of being a blogger, blogger community, blogger friends, blogger lifestyle, blogging, blogging from Starbucks, blogging in Dubai, blogging information, blogging knowhow, cafes in Dubai, diary of a blogger, dubai blogger, Dubai bloggers, Dubai mosque, how blogging works, how does blogging work, how to monetize a blog, Jumeirah Mosque, Jumeirah Mosque Dubai, life of a blogger, Media, Networking, networking in dubai, post on blogging, professional blogger, professional blogging, pros of blogging, Starbucks, Starbucks Middle East, why I like blogging, why start a blog4 Comments on Undefined Declarations’ List: Top 10 Things I like about being a Blogger
Did you grew up in an Arab Gulf family?
This post might resonate with a good deal of people who grew up with Arab or Asian parents. Since both cultures have a lot of similarities – especially when it comes to the family and social issues.
If you need some introduction to the way things are in the Gulf Region, have a look at my previous post about the topic here.
Now that you have a general idea about our lifestyle from my previous posts about this highly complicated and rich subject, let me present to you the top 10 signs that you were raised by GCC parents:
1. Your curfew time is at around 9 or 10 pm the latest if you’re a girl.
Whether you’re a University student, an employed adult, or a teenager, staying outside the house for a late hour is a big no-no. You can try to beg or ask for permission politely to stay late at your best friend’s graduation or wedding party, but rest assured that all your pleas will be faced with a clear rejection. Note: This rule does not change no matter how old you are or serious the situation may be. So even if you’re in your fifties or sixties or spending the night at ICU, you still must be home by the earliest time possible!
2. You’re not allowed to have male friends.
If you happen to mention the name of a male work colleague, brother of a friend, or any other person from the opposite sex, then this must mean that you have feelings for him. Therefore, the two of you must get married ASAP. The simple and basic fact that you mentioned him in your conversations must mean something. You can’t talk about a man for no reason, right? this must mean that you like him, and this gesture must immediately translate to a marriage contract
3. Attending concerts, visiting another city/country on your own are all considered indecent acts for a single young woman.
Growing up in the Eastern Province of Saudi as a teenager, with neighboring Bahrain, only meant that we had access to famous artist concerts and shows. But I had to argue my way to each and every one of those concerts that I managed to attend! Yes, I’ve always been a rebellious one
Now this rule doesn’t only apply to concerts, it goes for any type of outing that involves a bit of freedom. Examples include visiting neighboring Bahrain for shopping and movie trips, or just meeting up with friends. You can’t go alone, even if you’re in your twenties. A parent must tag along to ensure that the reputation of the family stays intact :p
Growing up in the Gulf Region has its pros and cons
4. Traveling abroad for leisure on your own or with girlfriends is another no-no.
Of course, for some liberal families, this rule can be broken. When I was in school, many of my friends were able to travel together in groups without their parents’ company. If not at school age, then maybe later in life – when they’re in their twenties. But for me, this scenario was out of the question. I actually went on my first solo trip for leisure purposes in late 2012. You can read about it here. This is not to say that I wasn’t lucky enough to travel abroad to live and study when I was only 18. But – as you might have guessed by now – I fought really hard for that privilege. My mother used to genuinely think that going away on a beach holiday in the summer is a silly and superficial thing to do! She actually thinks that my desire to do something that the rest of the Universe does – take a beach holiday – is a complete waste of time and resources. And obviously, is not acceptable by all means.
5. The house maid or house keeper transforms into a body guard to accompany you at the local mall.
I think this headline requires little or no explanation. For those of you expats who currently live in the Gulf region, you might have already noticed this phenomenon at the malls. Every so often, I see young GCC ladies walking around the mall with their house maids, and I’m taken back in time to the days when I had to be accompanied by my own house keeper. Luckily, she was a very warm and lovely lady. God bless her, but she did get on my nerves at times. You can’t blame her though, she was only following my mother’s strict instructions!
I also had my eldest sister accompany me to University in Bahrain. Even when she didn’t have classes herself. But that’s just going to make this point longer than intended. So let’s end it here
6. Your mom reminds you that it’s time to go to bed at around 9 or 10 pm when you’re in your early or late twenties.
I think this one also requires no explanation. Arab mothers like to take full responsibility for their children – especially the daughters. And this includes making sure that you go to bed at an early time and don’t spend any extra time hanging around or doing pointless activities.
GCC parents can be very controlling and over-protective
7. Your dad tags along as you shop for under garments at the department store’s lingerie/sleep wear section.
Not sure what is worse; shopping for underwear at Saudi shops and asking for assistance from the male sales people (which I don’t recall doing), or browsing the high-end department store’s lingerie and underwear section (in Bahrain or other location outside Saudi) with your dad at your back in every step you take. Hmm…both are difficult situations to find yourself in – I must admit.
8. Your mother constantly gets you clothes and tops that are one or two sizes bigger than your actual dress size.
I think anyone who comes from a conservative family will find this point familiar. Traditional Middle-Eastern mothers think that a woman shouldn’t expose her figure by wearing tight-fitting outfits. This applies to all body shapes and sizes. So no matter how slim or flat you are, you are not encouraged to wear skin tight clothes that flatter your body. Even if you had a gorgeous body that you don’t mind showing off
Note: Most of the time, mothers also decide what type of outfits you should wear and what fashion style you should follow. As a teen and a young adult, I always felt more comfortable wearing jeans and a nice top. So this didn’t really affect me that much. In fact, until today, I prefer to wear loose and comfortable clothes on most days. And only dress up for occasions. I guess I’m a bit of a tom-boy
9. Your mother continuously compares you to others.
Be it your class mates, your close friends, your relatives, you name it, she’s got it covered. Arab mothers see this comparison as a form of motivation. They think that by comparing you to others who are in some way or another better than you, you will be influenced in a positive way to become a better version of yourself. Of course when done on a regular basis, this causes serious issues of low self-esteem and diminished self-worth. When I say ‘better’, I mean various things. So it can be in their social skills, their fashion style, their attitude, anything really.
Growing up with GCC parents
10. Your father makes all sorts of decisions on your behalf.
If you read my previous post about the lifestyle in the Gulf Region, you would understand this point. Basically, since the parents (mostly father) support their children financially even when they are adults, they also have the right to ask you to follow their own rules and visions for your own life. This means that your father will feel that he has the full right to make choices for your education (University level), career path, personal, marriage, and ultimately all life aspects This is valid for as long as you are single and is being supported by him financially. And as long as both you and him are alive and well. They also tend to always think that they know what’s best for you – even when that’s not the case. And they feel privileged to make decisions on your behalf – as if you don’t exist really.
So the financial support also means that you must play by their rules – and only their rules!
Now I would love to hear your views on this topic…do you agree? do you disagree? does any of the points that I mentioned resonate with you? did you grow up in a liberal type of GCC family with very liberal parents? do you think I’m just a spoiled brat for writing this post?
Whatever your opinion is, feel free to share it
And because I always like to see the bright side of every situation, I must admit that having grown up with somewhat controlling and over-protective parents has taught me many useful life skills. One of these important skills is the ability to practice self-discipline in my daily life. So, I am thankful to my parents for that. I can say that I have a considerable amount of self-discipline that comes in handy at times. That of course is coupled with a huge lack of self-esteem, self-confidence, and self-worth
I’m also thankful for being more privileged than many others who share my struggles. It’s true that I had to fight for what I have, but I’m still more lucky than many others who might not have the opportunity to get their voices heard or their side of the story listened to.
The photos in this post are by the highly talented Yasir Saeed. You can read my review of his photography session here.
Positive Attitude is Essential in every situation!
Adios mi amigos y amigas X
Posted on October 8, 2014 October 9, 2014 Author Nada Al GhowainimCategories Culture, Discussions, Featured, Life in Dubai, Opinion, Personal Post, Photography, Social, Social Posts, Top 10 List, Undefined Declarations' ListTags Arab culture, Arab parents, culture, debate, dubai blogger, GCC lifestyle, GCC parents, Gulf Region culture, Gulf Region lifestyle, top 10 list, top 10 signs you were raised by GCC parents7 Comments on Undefined Declarations’ List: Top 10 Signs you Were Raised by GCC Parents
When I first decided to change careers from IT to journalism back in 2008, I had no idea about the way to get there. I didn’t realize that it would be a completely different route to what I was used to, or to how I eventually got my IT job. Doing things the hard way – without anyone to guide me, assist or support me – I must say that I learned the lessons in the best way possible: by trial and error.
Comparing my previous career and work experience to what I do now is a very hard task. They’re two completely different fields and work environments. But, I will give you a brief idea to help you understand and maybe get inspired to make a similar change or adjustment to what you currently do.
I had a degree in Business Information Systems from the University of Bahrain. And after working in IT support for around four years, I decided to quit my job and pursue my passion: writing. I was 28, a year later, I moved to London to take a foundation course with London College of Fashion. After completing one term of A-Level equivalent and intensive study, I decided to move to Dubai to start interning for publishing companies in the hopes of landing an editorial role along the way…It’s the year 2014 and I’m still working towards that same goal that I had aimed for when I moved here in 2010. Except that these days, I have learned so many lessons along the way and I would like to share them with anyone who is working towards a similar goal or is looking into becoming a creative professional and earning a living out of it.
1. Start doing the creative work
While it might work otherwise in other industries – get a degree then apply for a job. In the creative industry, it’s the other way around. You must start by doing the work that you aspire to get paid for. Since employers will only hire you after they have seen your actual work and how you can add value to their organization and goals. Plus, doing the actual work will greatly help in improving your skills and expertise.
2. Do unpaid work
Freelancing and offering your services for free is nothing to be ashamed of. It’s a great way to build your portfolio – because you will need one in order to get paid for your work. So keep doing unpaid work for as long as it takes to get paid for your work and to be accredited for it.
Working in a fun and creative environment is a good thing, but you must be prepared to work without taking breaks. Fixed working hours aren’t part of the game. There’s always something new to learn, some project to work on, a new and exciting idea to consider…The cool thing is that you get to be your own boss and you can manage your time according to your personal preferences.
4. Take notes of your ideas and put them into action
Whether it’s your next blog post, photo shoot, short video, web site design, you need to keep coming with fresh and new ideas. Most importantly, put those ideas into action by implementing them into that blog post, photo shoot, video or web page.
Any entrepreneur will give you this advise really. You must do what you do with passion if you want to get to anywhere. The monetary return will not appear in the first stages, so you must do what you love in order to have the passion to keep doing it even when the going gets tough and when you are not making any profit out of it.
One of the essential elements of the creative industry is networking. Find out about relevant events and make an effort to attend them. Not only will you learn more about the market, you will also meet new people who share your interests and passions. Building positive and meaningful connections with others in your industry is vitally important.
7. Have casual meetings with like-minded people
Whether it’s over coffee, lunch, dinner or even breakfast, meeting with others from similar industries is a great way to share ideas, discuss various topics and maybe learn new tips and market information. Supporting others in their own career goals is always a great way to build positive and healthy relationships with others in your industry. The road is always more entertaining when traveled with others.
8. Work in creative hubs and open spaces
Whether you choose to work from your local neighborhood cafe, head to the nearest spot of big chain coffee shops, or collaborate with others at one of the work spaces in town, it’s always better than working from home. Being a creative professional – especially when writing – can be a lonely experience. So surrounding yourself with others in an open and busy environment is the best way to go. You will also feel more motivated to work in an environment where everyone around you is working in front of their laptops or doing some sort of productive work.
Taking a short course or working towards a degree in your chosen creative field will only add to your knowledge and build up your confidence. If you can’t afford a course, simply read online articles about your topic or any topic for that matter! Staying updated with what’s happening in your industry will help keep you ahead of others and boost your knowledge levels.
Reaching your goals in the creative industry and getting paid for your work could be an extremely lengthy process. It could take years before you could get published or be taken seriously by potential employers. But the trick here is to never give up and to continue working hard towards your goals. Even if no one reads your blog posts, supports you or what you’re doing, or thinks that you have great ideas, you must stay fixed to your target and aim to achieve it no matter how challenging things get. Keep reminding yourself of why you chose to do this in the first place and how long it took you to get to where you are. You must fuel yourself from your own energy, ambition and inner power.
Posted on July 23, 2014 July 24, 2014 Author Nada Al GhowainimCategories Blogging, Creativity, Discussions, Featured, Media, Networking, Opinion, Publishing, Self-development, Top 10 List, Undefined Declarations' ListTags creative industry, creative professional, dubai blogger, freelance, how to become a journalist, how to become a writer, how to change careeres, how to follow your dreams, how to get paid as a writer, Networking, publishing industry, tips for creative people, tips to make it in the creative industry, top 10 list, top 10 tips to be a creative professional, writing4 Comments on Undefined Declarations’ List: Top 10 Tips for Making it in the Creative Industry
Since I’m a native Arabic speaker, my expat friends regularly ask me about common words and how to say them in Arabic. I must admit that Arabic language and specifically the pronunciation of words can be quite tricky. That’s why I decided to compile a list of some widely used Arabic words and their meaning in English.
I also plan to write a List post every week, so please feel free to suggest ideas for my next post. Whether you’re confused about the way some groups or communities act, why Arab women tend to dress up and wear too much make-up, what do Saudi people have for breakfast…whatever the dilemma you are facing, I will try my best to provide an explanation and help simplify your time spent living in the Middle-East
If you still haven’t seen my first Top 10 List post, you can have a look at it here and learn some basic facts about the Gulf region.
Moving on to today’s topic, I present to you my list of the Top 10 Mostly Used Arabic Words:
The first three words mean: Hi. But they are more used in a Saudi accent in this example The last word in the above line means: Good Morning.
The words “Keefek” and “Keef Halek” mean: How are you? The answer means: Thankful to God, I’m OK.
Baba means: Father, and Mama means: Mother. However, this is also relevant to the community and could change according to where the person comes from. This is how a spoiled Saudi girl calls her parents :p
Arab people in general are very emotional. They like to use the above words when speaking to random strangers even if they don’t know them that well or are despising them at the moment!
Definition: Habibi means my love and is used for a male. While Habibti is used when speaking to a female. The word Hayati means: my life and can be used for both girls and boys. Didn’t I tell you Arabs are highly emotional beings?
Ma El Salamah means: Good Bye. It also means with good wishes or safe and sound. Tesbah Ala Khair means: Good Night.
Definition: Nice meeting you.
Yallah means: Let’s go. But can be used in a sentence to tell someone: come on, hurry up, or “oh well“.
Khalas means: it’s over, all set, or to end a conversation when you don’t want to talk anymore about a specific topic
Inshallah means: God Willing. It’s the equivalent to saying: Hopefully. And Mashallah means: Praise God. And it’s similar to saying: Touch Wood and so is the verbal way of touching wood in the Muslim world
I was out for dinner with my dear friend Pinay Flying High when I mentioned to her that I plan on writing this post. She suggested that I include her favorite Arabic word: Shuhada.
Now although Shuhada is an Arabic word, it is pronounced differently depending on the Arab country the person is coming from. But since the Lebanese Arabic dialect is considered one of the easiest ones to learn and master, most non-Arabic speakers pick up that accent and use it in daily conversation.
Being the Saudi Diva, I would have to include the Saudi version of the word “Shuhada” and that is: Drum roll…..Aish Hatha?
I hope that you found these basic Arabic words useful and that you will try to practice using them the next time you are chatting with an Arab
Posted on December 16, 2013 Author Nada Al GhowainimCategories Featured, Life in Dubai, Self-development, Top 10 List, Undefined Declarations' ListTags Arabic language, Arabic speakers in Dubai, Arabic with a Saudi accent, basic Arabic words, common Arabic words, Language skills, learn Arabic from a native speaker, learn Arabic words quickly, most common Arabic words, mostly used Arabic words, Saudi dialect Arabic, top 10 list of mostly used Arabic words21 Comments on Undefined Declarations’ List: Top 10 Mostly Used Arabic Words
1. Not everyone is super rich.
2. There are only two seasons in a year; summer and winter. The skies are mostly clear and sunny, and it rarely rains.
3. Life happens in shopping malls.
4. Apart from some designated areas, you rarely can walk from one place to another. The streets are not walkable.
5. Food plays a major role in our daily lives. We tend to eat big meals for lunch AND dinner.
6. We are very family-oriented.
7. We are used to the comfortable lifestyle and don’t enjoy struggling for anything! (although I am learning to appreciate the rewards of hard work).
8. Islam is the main religion that is practiced between GCC citizens.
9. Car drifting is a popular hobby amongst the youth, especially in Saudi.
10. PDA’s are not acceptable and are against the law. You could be punished if caught.
Posted on December 8, 2013 December 8, 2013 Author Nada Al GhowainimCategories Dubai, Featured, Top 10 List, Undefined Declarations' ListTags facts about the Gulf region, GCC facts, life in the GCC region, Life in the Gulf region, rules of living in the Gulf, top 10 facts about the Gulf region2 Comments on Undefined Declarations’ List: Top 10 Facts About the Gulf Region
| 27,903 |
Weight loss is an important measure these days. Everybody is having a competition with each other in terms of physical fitness. Everyone wants to be healthier, beautiful than the other. Then one needs to understand the beneficiary measures to maintain their physical fitness. Going to the gym is not the only solution to lose weight. It makes a person tired and takes a lot of time investment.
The young generation follows each other to make it a style statement. And that’s the reason everyone is going towards the gym despite consuming a healthy diet. Usually, people gain weight as they develop. With increasing age, the weight is also gained. Sometimes one has to feel humiliated because of being overweight. So nobody wants to feel ashamed and are keen to maintain themselves physically.
These days the most popular weight loss technique is a keto diet. It is also helpful in keeping the people in their 40s or 50s as fit as people in their 30s. Most aged people are not comfortable and capable enough to go to the gym. So they can maintain their lifestyle by following a keto diet.
Slim Keto Boost is a well-planned diet in which you need to follow rules strictly. You have to restrict yourself by eating unhealthy food. Results will be a miracle. A Keto diet helps in burning fat rather than carbohydrates. And it helps in converting carbohydrates into glucose. This diet should be followed regularly for about 2 to 3 months if you want to see results for the long term. As in starting weeks, one adapts new changes in diet. So it needs to be followed regularly. This is a tough task for a person to restrict themselves from tasty food. So there are some supplements which you can take to get results in less time. One such supplement is Slim Keto Boost.
What is Slim Keto Boost?
Slim Keto Boost helps to lose weight faster with the keto diet. Proper exercise with Slim Keto Boost also helps in toning up the shape of the body. The first-ever brand which makes ketogenic diet accessible to all over the world is Slim Keto Boost. It enables one to maintain their health and body shape without compromising too much with their food habits as it helps to suppress the hunger and cravings for sweets. Also, you will not feel lethargic instead it will give you a boost of energy to perform daily activities in a much better way.
Many people don’t follow the guidelines given to take the product and face its repercussions. So always follow the instructions before consuming the product. Slim Keto Boost is manufactured in a technique which ensures it as a low carb product. A Ketogenic diet is a very low-carb diet that is advantageous in burning fat effectively. Millions of people have already experienced its many proven benefits for weight loss, health, and performance. It’s a magic potion for all the weight loss aspirants who are struggling to shed extra inches within a few months.
Slim Keto Boost is a supplement that supports both ketogenic and low-carb diets. The keto diet mainly focuses to consume 20 to 50g of carbs per day with a sufficient quantity of proteins. It helps in utilizing fat for energy rather than carbohydrates. It is very helpful in shedding weight. Also, it will improve the mental focus and mood which will reduce the stress level and you will always be motivated resulting in a relaxed life.
Slim Keto Boost works by starting a process called ketosis in the body. It increases metabolism, increases fat burning rate, provides energy to the body in the same way as glucose, and reduces the impact of any carbohydrate. The best thing about this supplement is that it works at a cellular level to not only burn stubborn fats but also inhibits future fat synthesis which is the main concern with people trying to lose weight. So the people who are struggling to lose weight should try Slim Keto Boost to get amazing results within a few days.
Slim Keto Boost is a high-quality keto diet pill specifically made for men and women who are looking to lose weight. It is composed of 100% natural ingredients and contains no artificial or fake chemicals. It is FDA approved and is completely safe to consume. The main ingredients are –
BHB (Beta-hydroxybutyrate): BHB is an intermediate product of the breakdown of fats in the body. It is one of three main ketone body compounds that are produced when someone is in the metabolic state of ketosis. It directs the body to use fat as a fuel to produce energy instead of carbohydrates.
Garcinia Cambogia: It a super fruit that grows in Southeast Asia and India. It is the most famous ingredient for weight loss today. It contains HCA which is extracted from the rind of the fruit.
Green tea extracts: It is loaded with beneficial antioxidants which helps to burn fat and boosts energy level.
Benefits:
Improves concentration power and reduces stress level.
It controls blood sugar and cholesterol level to maintain a healthy life.
It improves the metabolism of the body and helps to cut the unnecessary cravings of food.
It helps the body to enhance the vitality level.
Improved well-being due to enhanced focus level
Reduces blood sugar and insulin level, therefore, reducing the risk of diabetes.
Boosts confidence as losing weight in the initial days is a big deal.
Burning of fat which helps to obtain energy.
Gives the courage to follow the keto diet by seeing the results.
How to Consume:
You need to take two pills a day before two main meals with lukewarm water to get an effective result. But while consuming these pills you need to take care of few points. You should avoid the intake of junk food and fried food as they don’t only cause weight gain but also lead to health issues like diabetes etc. and also limit your carbohydrate intake as it will boost the working of Slim Keto Boost. You should also drink lots of water in a day. And try to be dedicated to your exercise routine for yielding sufficient results. Regular basic exercise will give the results faster with the use of the supplement. If you will follow these points you will see a huge difference in your size in a few days.
Not to be used by people under the age of 18 years.
Avoid overdosage as it can lead to complications.
Take a low-calorie diet and follow a regular workout regime.
If you are already under any medication, consult your doctor before taking this supplement.
Store it in a cool and dry place.
Should not be consumed by pregnant ladies.
Slim Keto Boost is a completely safe product which doesn’t cause any side effect. It is an affordable and economic herbal product that is specifically designed for all those who want to lose their weight with their busy life schedules. It can be consumed without any worry as it is produced with all-natural herbs and contains no artificial or fake chemicals. It provides a 100% result if it is taken properly. Losing weight is not as difficult as all people think. It becomes easy with the help of Slim Keto Boost. You must use Slim Keto Boost to lose your weight which shows the result in its initial days.
It is very easy to get a hand on this product. You just need to visit the official site of Slim Keto Boost and fill the form with all your details correctly. The product will reach your doorstep within 3-5 business days.
| 7,379 |
The Santa Chiara Church in Naples, the day after it was bombed. Helen, the old Duchess of Aosta, was called in to gather and clean up the bones of the former Kings of Naples, whose tombs had burst open during the bombing.
Umberto, the Prince of Piedmont, the second from the left, with the American general staff. The American army had landed in Sicily before making their way north. The king and his son fled from Rome and were placed under American protection, despite the difficult relationship between the Allied forces and the ruling family.
When King Victor Emmanuel yielded to the Americans after fleeing Rome, the Germans arrested any member of the royal family they could get their hands on, in particular the women and children of the House of Savoy. They were taken prisoner in Germany, where they were threatened with death on a daily basis. They were eventually liberated by the Allied forces and a military plane brought them back to Italy. Pictured are the Duchess of Spoleto, Irene of Greece, and her son Amadeo, the current Duke of Aosta, upon returning to their homeland.
Difficulties in the relations between the royal families lasted throughout the war. For example, the woman in the printed black dress is the Crown Princess of Italy, who was in the fascist camp. But her brother, who she is next to, Leopold III, was the King of Belgium, and the prisoner of these same fascists. Yet she was able to visit him. The brother and sister are posing with the family of the former, his second wife Lilian, Princess of Rethy, his three children from his first marriage, Albert, the future king, Josephine Charlotte in white, the future Grand Duchess of Luxembourg, and to the far left Baudouin, the future King of Belgium. The little boy is Alexander, the son of Leopold III and the Princess of Rethy.
King Victor Emmanuel III and his only son, the Crown Prince Umberto. The two did not get along well, the king looked down on the son. The father was very short, almost a dwarf, while the son was tall and handsome. The Crown Prince did all that he could to save Italy and the monarchy. He did not succeed.
by Prince Michael of Greece
Still in Italy
11 March 2021 - 9 mins
One winter morning, it was freezing in the Grazzano library where the infamous séance took place. The seance that had, in a sense, resurrected Aloysa. The ghost took some time to show itself. Amazingly, there was nothing dwarf-like about it. On the contrary, the precisely contoured silhouette in the door was that of a tall…
11 March 2021 - 4 mins
“Spirit, are you there?” asked Count Giuseppe. They were six or seven seated at the round table in the library at Grazzano, the enormous castle next to Piacenza. The room where time seemed to have stopped had been left in darkness, and nothing disturbed the thick silence They were anxious, tense, and fixated on the…
8 November 2020 - 4 mins
While he was heir apparent, holding the title of Prince of Naples, the future King Victor Emmanuel III of Italy was sent off to attend military studies in Naples. It was there, upon going out into the world, that he met a beautiful young woman, the princess M. It is he who tells this story….
7 October 2019 - 4 mins
When we last left Evrikles, Emperor Augustus, whom he served well, had rewarded him the island of Kythira as recompense for his efforts, making him the prince of the island. At that time, the territory of Kythira seemed constricting to Evrikles in every sense of the word. There wasn’t much of a future in Kythira…
2 September 2019 - 7 mins
I was searching with Fivos for an illustrious character that lived in Palaipolis during the Roman Era. “No one known,” he tells me. In fact, barely anything is known of the city’s history. The only character tied to the Roman Kythira was called Evrikles. It was at a time in Egypt when Cleopatra and Mark Anthony…
21 August 2019 - 2 mins
In the 15th century, Prince Vlad reigned over the Romanian province of Wallachia. He had had difficult beginnings. He was a prisoner of the Ottoman court. His father was assassinated, and his brother was turned against him. He was an intelligent, cultured man, he adored music and was an exemplary builder. Palaces and convents are…
17 August 2018 - 3 mins
Infant Alfonso of Orleans and his wife princess Beatrice of Great Britain, uncle Ali, aunt Bee. He belongs to the Spanish branch of the Orleans family; he was an exceptionally gifted pilot, original, always unexpected, adored by his nephews and nieces, including me. She was the granddaughter of Queen Victoria, a famous beauty like her…
21 June 2018 - 6 mins
One woman became the very picture of romanticism, in this time when so many men, so many women aspired to be romantic. She was not a queen, although she reigned on the desert. Jane Digby was born into English aristocracy. Her father was a lord who possessed a vast castle. She was raised like all…
| 5,095 |
…but there was nothing “untold” about it. It felt like the writers went through the 2Pac Wikipedia entry and focused on the same RETOLD shit everybody’s seen over and over again – the East Coast/West Coast beef, the jail sentence, the shootings. Untold my ASS.
“Untold”
No. This movie sucked and didn’t do Tupac justice at all. I’m compelled to write about it because when I think of Tupac I think of someone who inspires me. As we get closer to understanding who we are, we get closer to knowing what we want in life and he had so many qualities that I admire. He was thrust into a world of fame and celebrity but he was more than that – he was a human who wanted to change the world for the better. He was an artist, an activist and a light of influence. Tupac was someone who stood for something and made it known.
As the son of Afeni Shakur, a Black Panther, his path to becoming a Revolutionary started in the womb. This short interview is clear evidence of an intelligent, passionate, educated, Black man using his platform to really inform and call people to action. To be at the top of the Billboard Charts in the MTV era where recording artists were THE Monsters of Influence and then call out White America and give direct instructions on how to dismantle White Supremacy. Who did that? He quickly got a target put on his back. Tupac was a major threat. Even the Presidency denounced his music publicly.
As Lucky In “Poetic Justice”
Tupac had a real power to effect change. He was Greatness. What he was able to achieve in the 25 years of his life was amazing but there was so much more Greatness that wasn’t realised.
If you know me, you know how much love I have for the ladies of TLC. The late Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes was a beautiful soul and inspires me in my journey. Her comments about Tupac and distractions really resonate.
Distractions. The most tragic part of Tupac’s story for me was his imprisonment for something I believe he was framed for. Like many Black artists of that time, he was making millions for his record label but had f.ck all for himself – he couldn’t post his own bail. As a result, he spent 9 months in an institution that was built specifically to destroy Black men in America. A place designed to break your spirit. In an interview from prison, Tupac talked about how it absolutely killed his creativity.
Who knows exactly what happened on the inside. What we do know though is prison changes people. This was undeniably evident in the shift in his music. After being released, he went from beautifully written stories [and my personal favourites] “Brenda’s Got A Baby”, “Keep Ya Head Up” and “Dear Mama”…
Of course this was all with the guidance of Suge Knight who paid bail and helped steer Tupac in that direction. Whatever happened in prison compromised his values to let someone of Suge’s calibre come into his life.
It wasn’t long after the release of the “All Eyez On Me” album that he was shot dead.
Now as far as “All Eyez On Me” the movie goes, it didn’t capture any of part of his life with any real depth. It just glanced over the entire span of his career on such a superficial level. What didn’t help particularly was that the actor who starred as Tupac looked like someone playing dress up the whole time. He lacked the charisma and intensity Tupac had. Interviewing him on the carpet and watching subsequent interviews, it was clear to me he didn’t really understand who he was either.
Krit: Who do you think was the love of Tupac’s life?
Krit: Why?
Tupac Actor: Cuz they were engaged.
Yeah I don’t know how you can snap Kidada with such confidence without even mentioning Jada.
It’s pretty telling that Jada has come out and said the depiction of her relationship with Tupac is all lies. It’s pretty telling that noone really close to Tupac attended the premiere. I will however give it up to the actors who did the best they could with what they were given. I especially liked Danai Gurira who played Afeni Shakur.
Consultation is key when it comes to telling any story that is not your own and it was clear there was none that took place here. Just this year, we’ve seen one of the best biopics EVER – “The New Edition Story”. A three part mini-series that took its time and had the support of its subjects. Take note.
Recently Cancelled “The Get Down”
Another great example of honouring and respecting storytelling is “The Get Down”. I had the opportunity to ask the director, Baz Lurhmann, about the implications of being a white Australian at the helm of a project based on Black culture. He acknowledged his ignorance in the space and described his role as a curator of a much bigger collaboration that included pioneers of Hip Hop like Grandmaster Flash and Nas.
There is so much footage out there of Tupac already that I really think a documentary would serve him so much better. Think “Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise” and James Baldwin’s “I Am Not Your Negro”. The resources are available for Tupac and people close to him to tell his story. Until then, let’s keep this supposedly “untold” story untold.
| 5,340 |
I was riding at approx 30mph when I heard a very loud noise. Engine immediately died and coasted roughly 50ft. There was a trail of oil and now the machine is locked up. Will not crank or go in to neutral. Machine has 3300 miles.
Driving uphill - at the steepest section I lose power. The engine hesitates, stutters, I have to stop. The engine never dies, After waiting less than 30 seconds I am able to continue again.
Replaced carb, fuel pump, fuel filter. Problem seemed to be fixed but returned 4 hills later.
My LM700 worked perfectly fine two days ago but today it wouldn’t start, the battery is fully charged but when you turn the key over nothing?!?! The winch works fine but the headlights nor the low oil light will come on or illuminate when turning the key over halfway. Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
By Greg Kilgore
Wife and I were on a little 20ish mile ride. Machine was running fine. Stopped at store to get a drink. Inside maybe 10 minutes. Came back out and Axis would not start without giving it gas. Axis would not idle. Had to hold gas to keep idle around 1500. Let off gas and it would die. Restart a few times but didn't turn key off before starting again. Just went from run to start with key switch. So I kept idle around 1500 shifted to H and headed to the house. Dash flashed error code 201.
Axis ran fine. Except when we had to turn around. It would die when letting off gas. Started right back up. Got to the house. Let off gas and Axis died when I Let off gas. Turned key switch off. Waited 30 seconds. Started without hitting gas and it idled just fine. Both in neutral and in gear.
Thinking it maybe be something with ignition switch. Cause when it would not idle when starting. I did not turn key to off. I just tried to start again. But after I got home and it died. I turned key off waited and it started back and idled just fine.
| 2,017 |
When planning some do-it-yourself maintenance and repair on your roof, safety should be of utmost importance. The heights associated with working on your roof can present many challenges, especially to non-professionals. Therefore, it is important to take note of some vital safety guidelines outlined below before embarking on the project. Accidents do happen, so why push your luck instead of taking precautions?
What Services Do You Need?*
Comments
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
many thanks to Chris and Cydnee for their work this week. Chris was great in diagnosing the problem and explaining the issue in the ways I could understand. thanks! 10/10 would recommend!
Seth Jensen was outstanding to keep in communication and to guide through every step of this new roof installation. The metal crew was also thorough and expert at this difficult job on a steep pitch. We are very pleased with the value offered by Vertex and the quality of the work.
I'm the owner of a large old Victorian house in the Avenues of Salt Lake City. The roof has a very steep pitch, some flat areas, including a roof-top balcony, multiple dormers, eaves, valleys... a fairly complicated roof that is three stories high. I'd called a few companies a year ago, and they just drove by, took a look, and never called back. I called Vertex because they appeared to have a very good reputation, and because I had decided that this was a job that needed to be done by expert roofers, as opposed to the companies that try to hurry through jobs as fast as they can to make as much money as possible. Vertex took the job, and they did it very well. They took their time in order to do it right, and I can honestly say that I'm very happy with the result.
The team at Vertex was very professional and a company I knew I wanted to work with from our very first meeting. Gavin was extremely helpful, responsive, and not pushy as we tried to coordinate their work with other contractors. The estimate provided was fair and not the lowest estimate I received, but represented the best value for the work to be performed. The crew that did the work was very respectful of our property and worked hard to get the job done in about 3 days. I would definitely call Vertex for additional roofing work and recommend them to others.
Very professional, fast and reliabl. Signed contract and within a week they were out to my place replacing my roof. Seth was always there to answer questions. Would recommend to anyone needing a new roof.
We contacted 3 potential roofers to re-roof our home. Gavin provided our bid and explained Vertex’s roofing procedures (including roof inspection and checking on clean-up after the job was completed). He was professional, informative, and provided a competitive bid in a short period of time. He and Parker (site supervisor) were great to work with (including coordinating with a plumber on changing the location of roof vents) and kept us informed about what happening with the job. Our questions were always answered.Our roof looks great and we couldn’t be more satisfied with the work. We highly recommend Vertex Roofing.
Cathie Delewski
I used Vertex roofing to remove an old corrugated metal roof. They replaced the sheathing and installed a new TPO roof. They was some accidental damage that occurred during the existing roof removal, but they were quick to have it professionally corrected. I'm overall happy with the experience and would recommend them.
These guys were great. They responded when they said they would. They had great solutions for a problem area we had on our roof. They were good at explaining our options with the ridge vent. My favorite part of this company was how great they were with clean up. They made a great effort to get our project finished in a timely manner.
Toe Tags and Knitting Bags
Very helpful and responsive to get roof repairs solved
In an ideal world, I wouldn’t need Chris and Vertex roofing, but this is Utah and the builders don’t build their houses for the rain, and these recent Monsoon rains are exposing issues that used to not be a problem. But they’ve been thorough with find them problem and fixing it. Chris has fixed a leaking chimney, found a poorly done interface that was letting water in, and even a gap the builder left in a corner where the roof meets a wall from back in the 90s. Always thorough, always kind and eager to help. They will always be my first call for anything roof or gutter related.
Chris came out to do a quote for some roofing repairs and I'm so glad he did! He called me to say he was 30 minutes out and then he showed up exactly when he said he would. While he was quoting us, he cleaned out some of our gutters just to help us out - free of charge! I felt like he really cared and like I wasn't just a customer on his schedule but a friend. I plan to use Vertex in the future for any other roofing needs.Thanks, Chris!
Vertex is top notch! They were easy to work with, on time, and they did what they said they would.
Gavin and the office manager Cydney were amazing to work with. They made it easy to work with my insurance company. The crew was fast and efficient and the clean up was amazing. I will be using them for all my roofing needs in the future. I highly recommend Vertex!
Chris, Sydney and Parker were outstanding. I found a hole in my roof on 10 Aug. I reached out to this company the next morning. Sydney got back to me within minutes. She then told me that Chris and Parker were in the area and could be there shortly. Sure enough, less than 30 mins later Chris and Parker showed up. They didn't try and sell me on anything or upgrades etc...they just told me the truth and took care of my issue in short order. I could not be happier with their service. If my roof needed to be completely replaced I would not hesitate to call this company back. Well done Chris, Sydney and Parker.
Gavin came to my home for a free initial inspection and to start a roof repair project bid. Chris came to my home to finalize the project and start the repairs and after further inspection recommended a fix that substantially lowered the cost of the project repairs. It was very refreshing to see such honesty even at the cost of revenue. I would tell anyone needing roofing repairs to trust this team to give you a fair bid. I will be using them for any future repairs that I may need.
Vertex did a fantastic job on our new roof. They arrived when they said they would, they worked late into the evening. Since rain was expected that night, they made sure everything was covered and protected. They even stayed late the next day to finish the job early! It looks amazing and everyone has been very responsive to all our questions. I would definitely use them again.
Vertex roofing, especially Chris, has been amazing to work with!They handled all the B.S. with my insurance company, promptly replaced my roof, and it turned out great! They left their job site spotless. I haven't encountered a single nail, or any garbage left behind.They checked in a week after the replacement of the roof to make sure all was well.Chris was great from start to finish, and made sure we were handled.
I highly recommend working with Gavin. He’s very professional and honest. Great company!
I called vertex roofing for an estimate for a full reroofing. They were very prompt in their response. Gavin was extremely professional and courteous while doing the inspection and estimate.
We had a great experience with Vertex Roofing. Devin and Breck were very easy to work with, responsive, and professional. We're very happy with our new roof and gutters!
Work was completed on 6-18-222. Gavin helped me with this roof project and did a great job! My roof was the original roof and was 23 years old and showing wear. I developed a roof leak from heavy rain storms that was leaking into the garage. Gavin came out to my house and diagnosed where the leak was coming from and gave me a couple options of fixing the repair and we also talked about the options of re-roofing since my roof was 23 years old. Because of the signs of wear on the rest of the roof and being 23years old I decided to replace/re-shingle the entire house for preventive maintenance reasons. Gavin sat down with me and worked up a quote for shingle removal and quality shingle replacement with a good price. Since I had a current leak problem Gavin was able to move me up in his schedule with priority. Work was completed good/fast with a large crew on site, along with fixing the original leak problem over the garage. I recommend Vertex roofing as a good roofing company.
The only contractor that answered my request for a repair estimate. Chris came out the next morning, found the problem, and fixed it for a very reasonable amount. Highly recommend.
Vertex has a great team from office staff, roofing crews, soffit and rain gutter crews to clean up crews. They are professional, quick and responsive in what they do and make sure the job is done perfect when they walk away. I highly recommend.
Chris was quick to respond to my request for service and gave an honest and thorough evaluation. He found two big problems that a real estate home inspection company totally missed. Repairs were done on schedule and on bid. I intend to recommend them to everyone I know that needs roof work. - DS
Highly recommend Chris Paulsen of Vertex Roofing for all your roofing needs. Chris is punctual, responds quickly, and is easy to reach. He inspected our roof and pointed out some serious issues that we were not aware of. Chris is very honest and recommended a repair that was very reasonable. He also reassured us that we did not have to spend a fortune that other companies had quoted.We also hired him to inspect and repair some minor roof issues on an investment property on an urgent basis. Chris exceeded our expectations and was there to help us and fix the issues in a timely manner when no other roofing company could commit as it was a very short notice.If you are looking for quality services at an affordable price, Chris Paulsen of Vertex Roofing is the right guy.
17:54 27 May 22
Chris was great! He fixed a small leak in our roof and then when it recurred several months later, he came back and did more extensive repairs at no additional cost. Chris is very professional and committed to doing the best possible job at a reasonable price.
19:36 13 May 22
Had a new roof installed on our house and unattached garage. Great service and great price. Ending result was better than expected and made our 70+ year old house look years younger. Our account manager, Gavin, took great care of us from the quote to the final inspection. I would recommend them to anyone for any roofing or gutter needs!
03:31 12 May 22
Couldn’t recommend these guys enough. Gavin was very responsive and quick to put a quote together for me and help me through the selection process. Bryan and Breck notified me of some questionable framing as they were about to install shingles. It took me a month to get the framing crew back out to fix it, and Vertex was right on top of getting back on the job even after that long delay. Easily one of the best contractors I’ve worked with building my house.
23:46 09 May 22
Gavin did a great job explaining the pros and cons of the different options we had. The install crew was fast and efficient. After the install was complete we had some black marks on our stucco from the old asphalt shingled being thrown off the roof. VERTEX was great about sending a crew back to clean the stucco as well as possible. They did not ask for final payment until we were satisfied with the result. Great company that does things the right way.
Breck, Seth, and the install crew were great to work with. Very responsive to questions and gave the most detailed bid out of the three I got. Offered a price match guarantee. The installers were polite and worked a long date to complete the job. Left the job site remarkably clean - I found a handful of nails but given the amount of debris I'm happy with how they left it.
Vertex Roofing and Chris were amazing. I had a small leak in my ceiling right underneath my chimney and it was an issue of flashing not being sealed appropriately. I contacted half a dozen or so other roofing companies and one even said we should redo the roof entirely with a bid of over $20K which I thought was ridiculous for a small leak with a clearly identifiable issue. Chris came out and gave us some tips on how to repair the gap and properly caulk. It turned out to be a very minor issue; saved us a ton of money and Chris super honest. Will definitely go with Vertex for all future roofing issues!
00:23 19 Apr 22
Vertex was very professional, they came out, gave us a quote, came back and repaired our roof, price was very reasonable, Chris did an outstanding job, we couldn't have ask for a better person to work with, their secretary was also top notch to work with. We had called several different roofing companies, I would definitely recommend Vertex, fast, efficient, very reliable.
Vertex Roofing came in and fixed what others couldn't. We've had leaking problems on and off for a long time and they saw the problem and fixed it professionally and quickly.
12:05 11 Apr 22
Working with Vertex Roofing was a great experience. Different than many other contractors, they assessed the problem, told us a solution and quoted us, and were on the job almost immediately. Follow up afterwards was also fantastic. I've worked with two other roofing companies lately and Vertex outshines them all. Trustworthy and fast. You don't have to worry about anything when you work with Vertex.
Vertex Roofing has great customer service and is very professional. They were responsive and worked with me to get a quote that was to my satisfaction. They provided timelines of when to expect my roof installation. Vertex replaced the roof very quickly - in one day, and cleaned up all the fallen debris around the house. Highly recommend!
Gavin and Breck were awesome to work with. We love our new metal roof!
Wow, I only got an estimate, but Gavin, my sales rep was incredibly professional and knowledgeable. He explained everything very well and was very well versed about all aspects of roofing. Very impressed with this sales rep & company, I won't hesitate to get back with them and put them at the top of my list when time comes for a new roof. Super experience, kudos!
E M
Highly recommend Vertex Roofing. Did an outstanding job from initial bid , scheduling, roof installation, cleanup and final billing. Thank you!
R Greg
Roof/vent damage caused interior leaking and water damage. Chris was able to assist in stopping the water and is in the process of helping to determine needed repairs. Sidney was great to assist and Chris was awesome.
16:50 16 Dec 21
Highly recommended. Vertex did a full tear off replacement of the roof on my home. The team did great work, from quoting with Seth, to execution with Breck & team. Very happy with the result and quality of work.
01:58 16 Dec 21
They are great and always fair Devin is great to work with..Christopher was great as well.
Gavin was especially helpful and informative in setting up the job. He made the extra effort to ensure all details were handled to my satisfaction. The foreman, Brian, was on site and available to answer all my questions and concerns. Brett checked in on the job when it was completed and fixed an area that was questionable. They actual workers showed up early and worked hard in the cold until there was no daylight. Everyone was polite and courteous. I was always able to contact and talk to someone. I would highly recommend Vertex Roofing, they did a great job.
these guys are great! terrific, personalized service and got to my job quick!
Vertex Roofing is a great company to deal with. Worked with my insurance to get every dollar needed for the job. They removed 3 layers, installed new shingles, ridge venting in a single day. Roof was complete minutes before multiple rain storms. The clean up was good for the current conditions.The end result is amazing!Thanks to the roofing/gutter crew and my salesman(Seth) for the great work. Would recommend!
We had a pain of a roof to replace, 2 layers of shingles to remove, multiple boards rotted, incorrect vents installed, and a high pitch on our roof. Their team did an amazing job with cleanup after the shingle removal. Management was very communicative during the whole process to ensure their team was working diligently to complete the job in a timely manner, and also did an inspection after installation to ensure it was done correctly, and to the best of their ability. We used this company on a recommendation, and have recommended it to many others since. Amazing job!
I used Vertex for a roof replacement in a house I recently purchased. Seth was incredible to work with and took the time to make sure my estimate was correct. He explained the estimate line-by-line, including where the final price could potentially vary once the work was done. For the record, I didn’t pay a penny more than I was quoted. Seth also stayed in touch with me between the time the work was booked and when it actually began to let me know what was going on.The crew that came and did the work was extremely professional, organized, and thorough in completing the work as requested and cleaning up the job site afterward.I got quotes from other companies that never even paid me a visit in person. I highly recommend Vertex to anyone who wants the work done properly and wants to have confidence in the final product they get.
Very happy with my experience with this company. Quick turnaround time. When we did have a minor issue, they handled it quickly and professionally - you can't ask for more. Things happen, it's how the company responds that really tells you what the company is about. I appreciate them handling the issue and being professional about it. Thank you!
I keep coming back to vertex for my roofing projects. Well priced for great work, professional and hard working crew
The Vertex team was all very prompt and provided great service when we needed a leak repaired on our roof. The came out and provided a quote within a few days of calling and had the repair done the following week. We will certainly use them again!
After the mini-hurricane hit we had water coming through a can light in our kitchen. Vertex responded quickly and did both a diagnosis and a repair on a tricky roof/chimney. Great folks. Don’t hesitate to call them.
Vertex roofing did what they said they would do and stood behind their work until the job was complete and in today’s business world that is extremely important for the customer.
Excellent from start to finish. Gavin May is the man
Professional and responsive.
Overall Gavin was awesome and assisted with all questions we had . If you plan on getting gutters and down spouts please know that they contract these out to be installed by another company Superior, we were not told that initially until we were ready to do the gutters. The company they use are not the greatest in communication.
Vertex is a superior roofing company dedicated to customer service. Devin is knowledgeable and professional in his attitude and approach. Customer satisfaction is his number one concern. He listens attentively and ensures attention to detail. His employee, Chris, is an expert craftsman who understands the nuances and artistry involved in the finish details such as counterflashing. My roof is beautiful! Please call Vertex for your roofing needs. You can rest easy that you are in caring and competent hands!
The crew handled a tough weather situation, and dealt with any issues that came up without delay.
Could not be happier with Vertex Roofing. Everyone from sales to installation (and later, shingle replacement after a storm) was simply excellent. This isn't a fly-by-night outfit--they are local, insured, bonded, all that jazz, but it's their service that makes the grade.
The owner is very nice and professional. He will answer all your questions when explaining the product and installation of all items for roofing.He crew foreman is also very nice and will answer any questions while the work is happening. He handles all the needs of the crewmen doing the work.
Our new roof looks amazing! Love that they had energy efficient options. Everyone we encountered with the company was so nice and helpful, especially Gavin and Cydney! The work was done in a timely manner and not just to completion but to our satisfaction. They came back and fixed a few things we called attention to without a problem. Would highly recommend Vertex!
18:42 26 May 21
Listened to my concerns, were timely and neat when cleaning up the property afterwards.
18:28 18 May 21
We've had our roof worked on by several large roofing companies over the decades. This was by far the best work we've ever had done. We are confident this will last us a very long time. Thank you for the superior and fast work!!! --Update, couple of years later and still couldn't be happier with their work! Had them do other properties and had the same great experience.
03:01 12 May 21
Vertex was really great to work with. They are responsive, they did a great job on my roof, cleaned up afterwards, overall were really awesome. They were super fast, my whole roof tear off and installation only took one business day. My roof looks fantastic. They did run into my garage door accidentally, but promptly informed me of what had happened and covered the cost to replace the door. I think that says a lot about their integrity, professionalism and accountability.
19:40 05 May 21
Gavin and Breck were awesome to work with. Gavin explained the options and provided me with a very competitive bid. Breck helped coordinate the roofers and was able to work with my schedule. The roof looks great and happy with the experience. Thanks!
Gavin, Breck, and the Vertex team were great to work with. I had my whole roof replaced after a huge wind storm brought a tree down. Gavin walked me through the process, helped navigate my insurance coverage concerns, and remained very responsive the entire time. Breck and his team were efficient and comprehensive, taking down 3 layers of previous roofing and replacing the whole thing within 2 days. Overall a very positive experience and I would highly recommend Vertex to anyone in need of roofing work.
I received several bids and am happy with my decision to use Vertex. I'm working at home and the fact that the crew was so efficient and could complete the job in a day was great for me. I feel like they did quality work and everyone there was friendly and helpful. I would definitely recommend them to others.
Gavin, Breck, and Vertex crews delivered on-time and in-budget roofing rehab services in a single day. They showed up early and knocked out the work in record time with a sizable and well-trained workforce. I took multiple bids for the work. Vertex had the most credible approach and realistic estimate. If you are looking for a completely reliable roofing contractor - look no further. These folks provide phenomenal services that focus on customer needs.
I was super impressed with vertex and how great if a job they did for me, they had the entire job finished in one long day. The crew was hardworking and professional, I was especially impressed with how well they cleaned up after themselves. I would recommend these folks to anyone who needs a new roof.
From the first conversation with Gavin I knew i’d found the right roofing company. Gavin worked tirelessly with my insurance company to make sure the job was done right. Together Gavin, Breck and Adrian made this a great experience. Thanks again Vertex!
We have done multiple roof installation/roof replacements for office buildings with Vertex Roofing. Professional, timely and quality roofing company! I would highly recommend them for your next TPO or residential roof.
These guys came last year and installed a roof for us. From start to finish they made the process easy. They offer financing at 0% which we didn't end up using but was a great option to have. Their guys came out and got the roof done in one day, which included tear down and installation. They cleaned up after themselves and didn't leave nary a nail in the yard. The shingles we picked have a lifetime warranty, and I called them last week just to have them double check after some pretty gnarly winds in my area. Our rep came back out and checked everything for us and of course we were in tip top shape. I will recommend this company to anyone, I've had great experiences.
I called in a panic, they had someone come out quickly to limit the damage from the strong windstorm, then they came back and made the additional repairs and cleanup that was needed. They were the "A" team.
Devin was responsive, prompt, clean and professional. Will use Vertex again for all our roofing needs. They were great!
My roofing job is not yet done so I'm saving the last star for when the job is complete so I can write a more fair review on the actual services rendered. Demand is very high for roofs since the September 8th windstorm. As a result of that and because of covid-caused manufacturing delays, some raw materials are not readily available. At first I did feel like the communication was poor (sounds like an internal communication issue) but when I did finally get in touch with the project manager, he was very helpful. Despite this problem that all roofing companies are currently facing, Vertex made an effort to find a solution for my needs which I really appreciate.
I had reviewed several roofing companies to repair my condo's 32-year-old roof and decided on Vertex. They gave me a competitive price and timeline. They were there for 2 1/2 days and removed the shingles and rotted wood and replaced them with new shingles and a waterproof membrane over my two porches where water had been collecting. Vertex did a good and quick repair and they kept in contact with me daily during the process. Good customer service. I'd use them again.
Installed a roof in new house. So far (after a few months) all is well. The company is professional and their price is competitive. I would hire them again.
The quality of the finished project was excellent. We had a asphalt shingle roof replaced with a standing seam, hidden fastener, metal roofing system. There was an issue with the initial material estimate of roof, and was approximately 1/4-1/3 short on materials which resulted in a delay of materials being delivered and the roof being completed by a few days. Cleanup was average and could have been improved by laying tarps down to catch the small depris such as nails and staples from the removal of the old materials. The workers on site, over the phone, and follow-up were all polite and professional. Cyndie (I think), the office manager called after completion of the project to ensure everything went well. Overall I would recommend Vertex Roofing.
Vertex Roofing was very professional in all aspects of the re-roofing process. What impressed me the most - not only did the job look great, but the clean up was outstanding. I would highly recommend this company to anyone that needs a roof re-done.
Awesome experience working with Vertex! Contractor (Gavin) was great to work with, responsive and went above and beyond in helping us get the roof completed in a tight time frame. The crew was awesome - very respectful and considerate when on the property. Thanks Vertex!
Thank you Vertex roofing! We have a rental property that the tenant failed to tell us the roof was leaking. After they moved out we found significant damage to the ceiling and walls indicating the roof needed to be replaced. We received several bids and was impressed how thorough they were with the bid process.Vertex had replaced our neighbors roof on a very windy day and a lot of debris flew into our yard. During the cleanup they made sure our yard was cleaned up and spotless as well. I was impressed.I decided to have them replace the rental roof and I am extremely glad I did. They do an amazing job! I’m happy with every aspect of what they did. They also do things that are included in the price of the bid to improve the roof like adding attic vents to our older house that never had them before. Also painting all the pipes and breathers to match. It looks great.I am extremely happy with everything including the price and have already recommended them to numerous other people.Thanks Vertex for caring about quality and the job that you do.
We own a mobile home with a swamp cooler that had leaked unnoticed for about the past two years and rotted out the roof. I called a couple of roofers for repair quotes and was so impressed with Vertex's professional approach that I approved the work. I then dealt with Cydney, their friendly & efficient Office Manager who handled the contract signing via e-mail and coordinated with me to schedule the work.The roofers showed up on time and did a professional job including re-sheeting the damaged area, and re-shingling. They also replaced a few shingles outside the damage area and re-leveled the swamp cooler which was not in the original contract.I would recommend them.
Cyndney Beers was very helpful in taking care of my invoice. The installation crew was on time and fast on the roof installation.
Vertex is the second roofing company that I have used in the last two years. I recently had them come out and replace my old roof. My roofing project was very complicated, mainly because the first roofing company that I used did a poor job and many of the things that the old company did had to be repaired/replaced by Vertex.All of the people that I worked with at Vertex were very helpful, responsive and professional. They gave me a fair and detailed quote of the work that needed to be done; including the repairs to the problems that were caused by the previous roofing company that I had used.My roofing project was completed in a couple of days, with minimal distraction to me and my family. The workers made sure to clean up everything at the end of each work day, taking extra care to clean up everything once all the work was finished.My new roof looks good and should last me for decades. I would recommend Vertex to anyone in need of roofing repair/replacement.
We had a roof replaced on our back patio and the Vertex Roofing crew did an AMAZING job! I was so impressed that they were able to complete the project in 1 day, and we are so pleased with the results. We went with the TPO membrane roof to replace an old corrugated roof that had been leaking.The crew showed up right on time, were very friendly and professional and did a great job cleaning up afterwards. I would definitely recommend Vertex Roofing!
Gavin and Breck did a great job of making sure we had everything set up before they startedThere were no surprise charges and they finished the job early. Took good care of my yard while taking off the old shingles. Would definitely recommend them
Ice Dam Prevention Can Save You Thousands in Home Repair Costs
New Year's Resolutions for Your Roof
4 Holiday Roof Safety Tips for Decorating This Season
March 2020
January 2020
December 2019
November 2019
October 2019
September 2019
August 2019
July 2019
June 2019
May 2019
October 2018
September 2018
August 2018
July 2018
June 2018
May 2018
April 2018
February 2018
January 2018
December 2017
October 2017
July 2017
May 2017
March 2017
December 2016
November 2016
October 2016
September 2016
June 2016
May 2016
April 2016
February 2016
January 2016
December 2015
July 2015
June 2015
May 2015
April 2015
March 2015
February 2015
January 2015
December 2014
October 2014
Monday-Friday: 8am to 5pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
Service Area
Vertex Roofing offers expert roof repair, roof replacement, and roof inspections to customers in Salt Lake County, Weber County, Davis County, Summit County and Utah County.
| 34,637 |
“A wrong turn lead me to a field of flowers and suddenly I’m second guessing every wrong turn in my life.”
Well. I have never analyzed nor have I seen any research with regard to how much time we use to plan out the ‘right moves’ to make in our careers and lives. I imagine, if a study were done, between consciously planning and the ‘in the moment analysis’ planning, those two ‘life plannings’ would represent some inordinately absurd amount of our time.
When I saw the opening quote I began thinking about how often most of us attach ‘bad’ to wrong turns and how less often we attach ‘good’ to wrong turns.
Simplistically, we attach wrong to bad.
Sure.
Sometimes that is true.
But I think I could argue that a wrong turn simply puts you in some place you hadn’t planned on <and you assume the plan was a good plan because … well … you had planned it>. Therefore, in our minds, the unplanned place is a bad place because it … well … was an unplanned place <some circular logic which seems kind of doomed to conclude bad even if it may actually be good>.
Setting aside the whole planning thing, turns are part of life.
Life is not one huge straight boulevard you place your car on and start driving.
Life is more often like seemingly random patchwork of inner city streets with dead ends, one ways and no left hand turns which seemingly are only placed at only the intersections which you had planned to make a left hand turn.
Some are planned.
Some are unplanned.
Some you have the time to invest a lot of time thinking about.
Some you cannot invest a lot of time thinking about.
Some end up in a good place.
Some end up in a bad place.
I imagine my only point is that sometimes, maybe more often than you think, a wrong turn puts you in a different, better, more interesting, place. A wrong turn exposes you to something you maybe never imagined you would ever see, ever face or ever think about. And that is the ultimate value of a wrong turn.
It exposes you to something beyond the plan you ever envisioned.
To be clear. I don’t propose building a Life around a disproportionate amount of purposeful wrong turning.
That kind of seems a little chaotic and absolutely suggests a shitload of wasted time & energy.
However.
Maybe we think about Life more as a shitload of turns, i.e., just a blanket ‘shitload’, instead of categorizing them simply as right turns and wrong turns.
Life is not binary and turns are not binary.
Turns are turns and more often than not they don’t lead you some place you can never leave they simply lead you to some place.
December 11, 2021by Bruce
scrap the plan for the day
“Thoroughly unprepared, we take the step into the afternoon of life. Worse still, we take this step with the false presupposition that our truths and our ideals will serve us as hitherto. But we cannot live the afternoon of life according to the program of life’s morning, for what was great in the morning will be little at evening and what in the morning was true, at evening will have become a lie.”
—
“If the world were merely seductive, that would be easy.
If it were merely challenging, that would be no problem.
But I arise in the morning torn between a desire to improve the world and a desire to enjoy the world.
This makes it hard to plan the day.”
–
“I’ve always liked the time before dawn because there’s no one around to remind me who I’m supposed to be so it’s easier to remember who I am.”
Plans and planning are tricky things.
I tend to believe I could write a Life version of this and a Business version of this.
I have written about ‘hard to plan a day’ before, this time I write more about scrapping plans and how difficult we make it to do so rather than discussing actually deciding what plan to have.
Let me begin with intentions.
We wake up.
We decide to head off to change, or impact, the world in any way we choose to. Yes, we may not ‘define’ our decision as impacting — it may simply be under the guise of ‘good shit to do today’, and because of this it also means, unfortunately, we do have a tendency to think of daily plans as ‘doing tangible things’ rather than possibly judging our plan completion under some heading like ‘teaching someone how to do things with grace & dignity & compassion.” I will note, by the way, that sounds like a frickin’ good plan.
Regardless. Let me approach scrapping plans in a curious way.
Curiosity is one of the three things I tell young people is the secret to success <the other two are resiliency and character>. I tell young people this because most older people just don’t seem to have time, or make the time, to be actively curious. Most older people, having inserted themselves into the daily grind and the ‘conserving institutions’ of which we call everyday Life, are less interested in curiosity and more interested in stability.
“Society, community , family are all conserving institutions.
They try to maintain stability, and to prevent, or at least slow down change. But organizations are organized with the intent to destabilize.
Because its function is to put knowledge to work – on tools, processes and products; on work; on knowledge itself – it must be organized for constant change.”
I say all of that because it means ‘improving the world’ often translates into swimming against the natural tide of ‘conserving institutions.’ I would be remiss if I did not point out swimming against that tide is not easy. And therefore makes it even tougher to scrap the plans for the day.
That said. Not scrapping plans for the day has a bigger repercussion to an individual.
I think the ripple effect for most of us is that we find ourselves waking up each day thinking ‘wow … I would love to improve the world somehow today’ <either consciously or subconsciously> and yet we end the day seemingly not even having nudged Life in a positive <improving> direction. In a weird, and unhealthy way, we have failed. Frankly, this struggle increases a feeling of negativity which can easily consume your life if you are not careful.
Between society encouraging things that don’t feel right for you, a ‘conserving’ environment, unhappy friends, media generating anxiety rating point by rating point by convincing us the world is going to end or intrusive trolls on social media, it can seem overwhelming negative as you view all of this versus what you felt when you first woke up in the morning.
Maybe that is why I love, and included, the Andreas quote: we wake up in the morning knowing ‘who I am’ without anyone trying to tell us otherwise. ‘
It is an odd, uncomfortable, struggle we face in scrapping plans.
In our heart of hearts I believe most people want to help others and make things better in their lives <and others>, but it is difficult to make a priority.
Especially if we even have inkling that we have some desire to enjoy the world that day.
Enjoyment, these days, can be found less in curiosity and exploring curiosity and more in stability and ‘things went smoothly <as planned>.’
Just like E.B. White suggests, we are not only torn each day by enjoyment and improvement, but as Drucker points out, layered on top of our own dilemma the world around us is conspiring to suppress any improvements or changes we may decide to try and apply that day.
It is a constant battle of ‘us versus them’ on a variety of levels.
Us versus society.
Us versus others.
“…But I arise in the morning torn between a desire to improve the world and a desire to enjoy the world. This makes it hard to plan the day.”
Huh?
What if the one day I choose to enjoy the world and someone needs me <which forces me to scrap my enjoyment plan>?
What if I spend the day helping someone who can never really be helped and I miss out on some personal enjoyment?
Thinking about scrapping plans for the day makes you start thinking about is it better if one just stopped caring for others — I don’t mean entirely just becomes secondary — and how would this effect Life <your own as well as others>.
By the way this ends up being more about ‘unintended consequences’ or ‘indirect influence’ on Life.
This may begin sounding selfish, but it is not.
It relates to an important nuance — serving others to benefit someone else or serving myself to benefit others?
Does my plan for each day need to be a question of should I help myself or help others?
I think I have an odd perspective on this and it may sound selfish but hear me out.
I tend to believe if you focus on waking up and improving the world by helping others you are focused on the wrong thing. I would suggest if you focus on improving yourself and being better every day, being the best you can be as PART of the world, you will inevitably improve the world and inevitably help others. I know the difficulty in this approach is that you can lose out on the obvious ‘cause & effect’ feedback loop which helps feed our belief in ourselves and fights everyday negativity in that we have tangible proof we did something positive.
It takes some courage to approach it the way I suggest. And it takes a lot of steadfast resilience in the face of a ‘prove you are doing something meaningful’ world.
Here is another thing in my favor with this thought.
All of us pretty much understand that no matter what plans you make, something unexpected is bound to happen — especially if one of your plans to enjoy the day and improve the world is a commitment to curiosity <which implies plans will be scrapped at some point any way>.
The unexpected portion implies plans are relatively useless and, maybe more importantly, scrapping plans is almost standard.
And following that thought it also implies it almost doesn’t matter what you actually do <as in measured tangible output and checks against ‘things done today’> as long as you have created some positive change, some improvement, around you.
————–
“It doesn’t matter what you do,” he said, “so long as you change something from the way it was before you touched it into something that’s like you after you take your hands away.”
————-
We all know this.
And my thought on approaching Life every day is tough because its approach accepts that things may not get better by tomorrow, maybe not even next week, but at some point <in the future>. And while I don’t really embrace the whole ‘live in the now’ psychology I do suggest that really the only plan you shouldn’t scrap each day is improving yourself and doing the best you can every single day – kind of like “the now improvement plan”.
It is like improving the pebble being dropped into each day’s Life.
Anyway. Despite all the bullshit in this world the one thing you can control is your own self-improvement. The one thing you can actually DO every day is remain curious and pursue curiosity.
You have to keep that in mind because while your plans are your plans you need to beware that someone will always have tools to destroy them.
“Even if you have built your walls higher than the sky, someone will have the tools to destroy them. “
Lastly.
The plans you like, feel comfortable with, and inevitably start putting in place more often. Let’s call this your personal ‘conserving institution’ for the sake of continuity in this post. The point here is what you feel comfortable knowing & doing. As you get older you will find a desire to do what you like doing and think what you feel comfortable thinking — more & more often.
As a result, you don’t see what I see <or someone else sees>. You see what you like. So you end up seeing information that supports your point of view and your plans become less based on pursing curiosity, but instead on stability & predictability <based on what you already know>.
You get stuck. Stuck knowing what you already know. Stuck making plans you have made before.
Curiosity is a deliberate decision and action <I always get a little vocal when someone says ‘I am naturally curious’ because I tend to believe it is more a decision and not some innate characteristic>. To improve yourself <and hopefully improve the world around you> you have break the existing routine of doing what you do and thinking what you think.
You have to force yourself to not only get a different perspective, but actually try and understand that perspective.
Even if you love your job you need to force yourself to learn new skills that increase your value to others <in business & work>.
You have to force yourself to look for something you would typically never read.
Inevitably you just have to learn to scrap the plan for the day if it means becoming better and I mean proactively, force yourself, scrap the plan rather than have the plan scrapped for you.
So go ahead, scrap the plan for the day.
I believe either you do it or Life will do it.
And maybe that is the biggest point.
Control your destiny or have Life dictate it. That is your choice when it comes to plans and your day<s>.
September 20, 2020by Bruce
Bigger issues Facing Us, Favorite Quotes, Life thoughts, Rants and Observations
Imagination requires a great deal of fortitude, creativity and hard work
——
“It’s extremely exciting to know that planets with potentially Earth-like conditions are out there, but learning what they actually are like will require a great deal of fortitude, creativity and hard work.”
=
—————-
“Every great advance in science has issued from a new audacity of imagination.”
=
So. Several years ago I saw “Another Earth may be 500 light years away.”
No way.
Ok.
How awesome is that? <answer: awesome>
Then.
And I immediately thought: “inevitably we will show a failure of imagination.”
What do I mean ? Well. I should be excited but instead I am wary of how ‘we the people’ will move forward. In fact I envision no moving forward, no ‘trying to do what it takes to get there’ and no imagination to overcome the cries of ‘why waste money on something like this!”
Anyway. Let me get the ‘another earth’ detail out of the way first.
Some 500 light-years away, a little planet basks comfortably in the heat of its sun. It’s probably rocky – as the Earth is – and it’s probably just the right temperature to boast liquid water. In other words, it’s about as close to Earth as any planet we know of.
Unveiled at a recent meeting of the American Astronomical Society, the planet Kepler-438b may be the Earth twin that researchers have long sought. Other planets have made claims to that title, but Kepler-438b is more similar to Earth in both size and in the amount of energy it receives from its star than a celebrated runner-up, several scientists said.
That runner-up, planet Kepler-186f, might be called “a cousin of Earth,” the University of Puerto Rico’s Abel Mendez, keeper of a database of planets outside our solar system, said via email. But 438b and another recently discovered planet are “brother and sister-in-law. We are getting closer.”
Kepler-438b and compatriot planet Kepler-442 b “are the best candidates we have so far for Earth analogues,” said astronomer Willy Torres of the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, a co-author of a paper in The Astrophysical Journal describing the new planets. Both were found with the help of NASA’s Kepler spacecraft, which launched into space in 2009.
Kepler 438-b is only 12 percent bigger in diameter than Earth, unlike the large number of “super-Earths” scientists have turned up outside our solar system. It has a 70 percent chance of being rocky, which scientists regard as a requirement for supporting life. And its surface receives roughly 40 percent more energy from its small star than Earth’s surface receives from the sun.
Kepler-438b “could be a perfect twin of Earth. We just don’t know, because we can’t pin down the measurements,” Torres said.
Sadly, Kepler-438b may represent something of an astronomical dead end. It is so far away, and its star so dim, that finding out whether it bears life or even an atmosphere is a daunting challenge, if not impossible.
“Discoveries of worlds like Kepler-438b are simultaneously satisfying and tantalizing,” planet-hunter Gregory Laughlin of the University of California, Santa Cruz, said via email. “It’s extremely exciting to know that planets with potentially Earth-like conditions are out there, but learning what they actually are like will require a great deal of fortitude, creativity and hard work.”
Unlike previously discovered planets outside the solar system, these candidates orbit stars much like our own sun.
“These candidates represent the closest analogues to the Earth-sun system to date,” said Mullally, “and this is what Kepler has been looking for.”
These new Earth-sized candidate planets in the water-friendly zone of their stars “are super-exciting,” said Lehigh University astronomer Joshua Pepper.
This is awesome.
I don’t care if it is 500 miles or 500 light years, it is a journey we should seek to take. It is a ‘task’ of which we should partake.
It is a task with an objective, but not the means < today> to attain the objective.
This is where we, the people, typically excel. When we are told it is not possible.
All this ‘another earth’ seems slightly impossible doesn’t it?
Well. Only with the failure of imagination.
The key thought in the words I wrote then:
We seem to have become the generation of measurement rather than the generation of imagination.
ROI, measurement, practical rewards & output, that is what we ‘do’ these days. This is how we conduct business and … well … lives.
We seem to have forgotten the value of unsought discovery. We seem to have culturally turned our back on imagination and the power of imagination. We seem to not want to risk any money or time without the certainty of “direct return” <that certainty is impossible>.
What if we were to send a ship with dozens of people and create a new civilization?
What if we could start a world from scratch?
What if we found another civilization already residing on this ‘other Earth’?
Well. I am afraid we will never even get out of our solar system let alone explore the universe other than telescopes and unmanned probes.
It is because of a lack of imagination that we don’t see that actually exploring the universe would be the greatest journey of all for us as a species. In fact. The comments under that one USAToday article years ago unequivocally reflect a majority of “so what.” Or “why waste our time.”
… it simply makes no difference either way.
500 light years is far beyond our practical reach so long as the speed of light is an absolute limit.
While it’s interesting to fantasize about the possibilities in the future the fact is that it is very possible that we will never be able to bridge the incredible vastness of space to other potentially habitable planets.
Well. My main answer to this negative view of imagination <it’s not failure … simply the inability to envision ‘what could be’:
————–
“Imagination is the one weapon in the war against reality.”
——————–
Look.
I want to be careful here because I do not want to diminish the individual challenges many people have with regard to paying everyday bills and the day to day pressures of enduring a recession.
But we, as a society as a whole, need to think long term.
What makes civilization great is how we forge through crap like unemployment and recession and day-to-day challenges and get to ‘hope’ and imagination and innovation and find out what is beyond the next horizon.
I would also point out that the reaching for the horizon tends to solve unemployment and recession and the day-to-day hardships thru innovations and overall betterment of Life. I can unhesitatingly say that if America decided to ‘do’ this project, assume responsibility for reaching another Earth … we will succeed. Not by working harder than anyone else, but because we permit hope and imagination to prosper.
Ok. Maybe I am crazy.
If I am, let me be content in my craziness.
——-
The rebels. The troublemakers. The ones who see things differently. While some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius. Because the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do.”
————-
I am no genius by any stretch of the imagination.
I can recognize the value of imagination.
I can recognize the value of discovery.
I can recognize the value of seeking what is beyond the horizon.
—————–
“Imagination has brought mankind through the dark ages to its present state of civilization.
Imagination led Columbus to discover America. Imagination led Franklin to discover electricity. Imagination has given us the steam engine, the telephone, the talking-machine, and the automobile, for these things had to be dreamed of before they became realities.
So I believe that dreams–daydreams, you know, with your eyes wide open and your brain machinery whizzing–are likely to lead to the betterment of the world.
The imaginative child will become the imaginative man or woman most apt to invent, and therefore to foster, civilization.”
Imagination fosters all that ‘could be.’
The search for the way to reach ‘another Earth’ is one big prosperous innovation initiative – assuming someone has the kahones to do it.
This could be the rebirth of NASA and science.
This is the rebirth of imagination if we choose to make it so.
July 13, 2020by Bruce
communications, advertising & the battle for truth
That will only confuse you.
Just be sure your advertising is saying something with substance, something that will inform and serve the consumer, and be sure you’re saying it like it’s never been said before.”
=
“If you try to comprehend air before breathing it, you will die.”
=
“Seeking truth is a full time job. Communicating truth is a purpose in Life.
Embrace that truth and your Life will be significantly more complicated, but significantly more rewarding.”
=
——————–
Well. Communicating has always been a tough gig, but in today’s world it has taken on an increased challenge.
I scan headlines in magazines and online and I cannot see one topic being discussed, one industry or any one group of influential type people that isn’t under attack by ‘lack of trust’ or, in other words, ‘liars.’
What that means is anything you are communicating isn’t starting from a commodity standpoint <all facts and truths are created equal>, but rather you are already in a hole trying to climb out of ‘prove to me this is not a lie.’
Think about that if you work in marketing, advertising or any brand type position. Think about that REALLY hard.
Truth has never had a more difficult challenge than today. This may sound odd because common sense suggests truth is truth and, unvarnished, stands clear of any and all clutter as … well … truth. Unfortunately that is not … well … true.
Truth, more often than not, is a wallflower and not the one breakdancing in the middle of the room. The schlub doing the crazy dance alone, being watched by everyone, is more likely a lie or a semi/partial truth. You have to coax truth to the dance floor. Someone has to bring it out into the audience and permit it to be seen.
To be honest, Truth telling is hard work. It is not for the faint of heart. Seeking truth is a full time job <which most people, frankly, just do not have the time to do as they do their paid full time job>. And communicating truth has to be a purpose in one’s life in order to meet the onslaught of untruths, purposeful ignorance, unintended ignorance, semi-truths and cynicism.
I do not believe we are in some ‘post truth world.’ Nor do I believe what someone said “there are no facts anymore.”
Facts are facts and truth is truth. There may be some confusion around this but, of all industries, advertising and marketing communications people had sure as shit better be fucking clear on this or they are in deep shit.
While I believe business, in general, benefits if they start on day one embracing the thought they are in the decommoditization business <rather than in the ‘uniqueness business’> I believe communications would benefit by embracing the thought they are in the ‘establishing truths’ business.
Advertising, marketing and all of professional communications is in a challenging position. Challenging in that businesses spend money on marketing & advertising most typically to sell shit. Therefore its main goal is to, well, sell shit. This means that if I represent a product and its main buying audience is white, male & blue collar <or pick any demographically based segment> I am going to use imagery and words that will appeal to them <sometimes to the detriment to other audiences who are less likely to buy your shit>.
Now. Of course you want to do it with style and substance and some sense of responsibility <not be stupid>. So any advertising person with any chops <any good> will figure out a way of not doing the stupid shit to sell shit. Even then your audience is your audience and while we would like to suggest everything is made to be created with a larger purpose of ‘bettering the world’ to a business who only has maybe $1000 to market something <or some finite budget amount> that $1000 is spent on selling shit and not ‘bettering the world.’
Simplistically, you sell to the people who will buy or have bought.
Simplistically, you sell to those people who will buy in the most effective way so that they will actually buy.
I say that because someone on the outside looking in can take apart imagery & words and make some very valid points with regard to the kinds of messages they send, but marketing people & advertising people are under a lot of pressure to sell shit. And, remember, they are in the service business. They ultimately do not do anything but ‘strategically create persuasive creations’ and a business makes the decision on whether what they create will actually be produced and put in front of people. Here is where the communications folk can get a little sideways. They focus on imagery & words & ‘attention’ with the intent to gain interest — not specifically sell shit. Sometimes they ignore truth as too complicated & too complex. Now. It is quite possible we communications folk may have gotten away with that in the past, but in today’s world, sure as shit, you better be grounded in hard, clear truth or you are gonna get screwed.
In the good ole days truth was appreciated, but aspirational sold.
Well. That was before we all got a good dose of cynicism and started drinking from the fountain of untruths.
Messages are everywhere and simply suggesting you were offering truth because “you consumers are too clever to fall for manipulation” gave people permission to at least think you were offering truth.
No more my friends.
While aspirational drives value, lack of truth suffocates value into nothingness. This doesn’t mean there will not be a boatload of products and services who make a sale standing on the superficial surface of irrelevant, but appealing, value. But that will be the geography populated by the hacks.
This truth thing may not be a battle which some people want to fight. And that is okay. But someone has to or the entire industry will become irrelevant. If no one tells the truth, why would I listen to anyone?
I, personally, am not suggesting ditching aspirational but I am suggesting that truth, communicating the truth in a away that people actually believe it is true, is the key to future success.
I have worked in and out of the marketing and advertising business for <yikes> over 30 years so I feel like I have some qualifications to comment on the industry. Everyone on the outside of the advertising business looking in thinks those creating the advertising think about shit that, truthfully, advertising people actually never waste their time thinking about. And everyone inside the advertising business thinks about more shit than people outside the advertising could ever imagine they think about.
Suffice it to say I could gather up examples of advertising, using material over 20 years, and make pretty much any point I want to make – good, bad, absurd, true, untrue, semitruthful, smart, insightful or blatantly uninsightful.
Anyway. Here is a communications truth — perception is not reality. The perception is that advertising makes shit up, makes stupid vapid shit and says nothing <as much as possible> and if they do say something it is a lie and, ultimately, they try and make people feel something <to sell>.
Nothing could be further from the truth <that is, of course, with the non hacks>.
The problem in advertising typically arises when the ad creators struggle to articulate the benefit <or convince themselves that it is ‘non differentiating’ and then seek to ‘differentiate’ in some absurd form or fashion>. It then can unravel from there because the ‘go-to’ phrase at this point in time is ‘do something brave’ or ‘entertaining’ or ‘edgy’ <notice nowhere in there is “smart, insightful, thoughtful, truth”>.
Sure. Great advertising messaging always is, and will be, imbued with some sense of courage.
Why?
Because if you want to be distinct you will not please everyone.
Because if you want to tell the truth you will not please everyone.
The hack advertising people use the ‘do something brave’ phrase indiscriminately to justify bad advertising.
The good advertising people use this phrase to do something smart in order to not be different but stand ABOVE everyone else.
Yup. Huge difference.
This is where I imagine articles about advertising should focus their attention on. Why doesn’t the advertising stand above <and not be below what is good & right & untrue>.
Advertising should be smart and not talk down to people but actually enable them to rise up to the occasion and FEEL like they are rising up to engage with that brand or company.
Communications should be truthful, regardless whether it is simple or complex, and enable people to be able to FEEL truth in such a way that doubts about that brand or company are swept away.
And it all has to be done with an eye toward ‘decommoditizing’ or being distinct in some meaningful way <because truth, in and of itself, is not a differentiator>.
Advertising cannot be dull and uninspired, oh, and you cannot use a small budget as an excuse. In fact the truth is that a limited budget is typically what drives innovative advertising.
Yup. Inspired smart creativity tends to make each dollar be more effective <hence you can live with a smaller budget>.
In other words a smart, insightful, relevant, entertaining ad will be more memorable than a typical ‘category using sacred cow imagery’ ad therefore it needs to be seen less for the same effect.
Oh. And if you add in ‘truth’ <in a way in which you aren’t just communicating it but people actually BELIEVE it>, your communications is more memorable, more believable, can be seen less for the same effect … and is, of course, of higher value.
By the way, smart means not any obvious photoshopping or any exaggerated ridiculous claims or just plain inaccurate information or anything fluffed up or untrue.
By the way, smart means avoiding stereotypes, typecasting and idiotic generalizations and lies.
Note to advertising people:
We can see through those slimy tactics. Realize consumers are people … people who are smart and informed.
Make me aware of a product.
Educate me.
Relate to me.
Tell me the Truth.
Regardless.
“A dull truth will not be looked at. An exciting lie will. That is what good, sincere people must understand. They must make their truth exciting and new, or their good works will be born dead.”
——-
Truth is truth.
Lies are lies.
Responsibility is responsibility.
If you do not accept your responsibility to tell the truth as excitingly and convincingly as you possibly can, lies will win.
I honestly do not despair when I look at business in today’s world or even marketing & advertising behavior.
I get aggravated.
No.
I get angry.
I get angry that we are not accepting the responsibility.
I get angry that we are not strong enough to accept the burden.
I get angry that many do not even presume the responsibility is within their purview.
Business, whether you like it or not, shapes society. Business, whether you like it or not, shapes truth.
What professional communicators do matters.
Selling stuff only matters as a means to an end. What really matters is the shaping of attitudes <which ultimately shapes behavior>. Far too often by simply focusing on ‘selling stuff’ the byproduct of our ignoring the larger responsibility is that we brutalizing society in some form or fashion – in this case and in this time and place … it would be truth we are brutalizing.
Am I suggesting that selling stuff or being profitable isn’t important? Of course not. All I am suggesting is that HOW you sell stuff and be profitable matters. And that you have a responsibility in HOW you do what you do.
HOW you do things has a power way beyond simply you or what you do in that moment.
HOW you do things is a pebble dropping into a pond.
In the end.
I will not argue that all advertising is good.
I will not argue that all professional communications is good.
A lot of it is shit.
But I will argue that good communications & advertising people, not hacks, are smart and tend to create smart insightful educating communication pieces that avoid the trite and stereotyping imagery and focus on telling the truth, if not A real truth, rather than lie or some semi truth.
I would also argue that good communications & advertising people, not hacks, have the opportunity to save truth in today’s society.
Anyway. I think many of the world’s institutions are embattled but the one that concerns me the most is Truth. The institution of truth is under siege.
I can honestly say I don’t think most who are attacking truth are trying to facilitate its downfall most are simply unclear what is truth and what is not. I believe anyone in any position of influence should be proactively assuming the burdensome responsibility of telling and protecting truth <that will come at an expense> but, today, I think the professional communications industry should be at the forefront of the battle.
Why? They get paid to communicate. If they cannot figure out how to effectively communicate truth, who can?
They must must make their truth exciting and new, or their good works will be born dead. Uhm. And lies will win.
About the author:
I am a 50something who believes my generation hollowed out Truth by simplistically suggesting truth was best told through simplicity.
I have had one framed picture in my office since maybe 2000: Seek Truth.
October 10, 2018by Bruce
one of those dumb days where
“We are dying from overthinking.
We are slowly killing ourselves by thinking about everything.
You can never trust the human mind anyway.
—
“It’s one of those dumb days where nothing’s really wrong but nothing’s really right either and the sky can’t even choose to be white or gray.”
–
“Nothing” days.
Its hard to believe with all that shit we always seem to have to do and all the shit that seems to be happening around us and all the shit society, people and culture claims we are demanded to pay attention to … there can be nothing days.
The dumb days in which nothing happens <albeit lots of somethings actually happen>.
I think this is one of those things I didn’t think about until I actually thought about it — how can a day be nothing when you actually did a shitload?
Sure.
There are some people who get busy doing nothing <I actually call this ‘the art of looking busy’ and have a piece on his coming up>.
But the majority of us do a shitload of something on the days which we tend to view as having done nothing.
And I am not sure that is particularly healthy.
You can surely assess what you have done and apply some value less than what you wished you could assess … but even that “lesser value” is not zero, therefore, it is not nothing.
Personally I think this happens because the majority of us have a natural resistance to nothing. What I mean by that is being associated with “nothing”, particularly in a country that extols doing, creates some sense of diminishing or diminished.
And no one likes to feel either diminished or having whatever we actually did do be diminished to … well … nothing.
Anyway.
What that means is we will apologize for ‘nothing’ with a variety of reasons – distracted, bored, tired, etc. – because in the end our internal integrity compass wants to point toward something to make us happy.
In fact … someone created something called the Nothing Day which has been commemorated since 1973. The day is literally about doing nothing at all. There is absolutely no purpose or intended structure for this pointless celebration.
My point isn’t that we should celebrate nothing or doing nothing or even the feeling we actually did nothing but rather that we see “nothing” where there really is something.
This is even making my head hurt.
Let me try this.
Far too often we fall into an all or nothing assessment with regard to our day. What that means is we could actually do a shitload but if it doesn’t meet some “something” standard it then falls to a 100% nothing value.
That is nuts.
“Either I reigned supreme or sank into the abyss.”
–
And I can honestly say its nuts because I do it. I can reach the end of a day with a long list of shit I have done and sit back and say “shit, I did nothing.”
And I don’t think I am that different than a lot of people.
I could speculate why we do it but I will not.
Mostly it is because we think, think & think about the shit … and overthink it … and it is a death trap.
Mostly I think society & culture seems to put an extraordinary amount of value on tangible recognizable outcomes therefore if you just do shit … but the shit doesn’t offer some trophy outcome you can hold up for everyone to see than … well … we think we have nothing to show for it. That is also a death trap.
Not only is that dumb it is the foundation for one of those dumb days where nothing’s really wrong but nothing’s really right either and the sky can’t even choose to be white or gray type feeling … which is a pretty dumb feeling to have.
All I can say is that the next time you think it is one of those dumb days where you did nothing … maybe stop overthinking and make it a simple thought — I did some shit today. I will do more shit tomorrow. And eventually some good shit will happen.
June 13, 2017by Bruce
Bigger issues Facing Us, Favorite Quotes, Life thoughts, Personal & Nonsensical, Rants and Observations
“And this I believe: that the free, exploring mind of the individual human is the most valuable thing in the world. And this I would fight for: the freedom of the mind to take any direction it wishes, undirected.
And this I must fight against: any idea, religion, or government which limits or destroys the individual.
This is what I am and what I am about.”
——
“when you follow two separate chains of thought you will find some point of intersection which should approximate to the truth.
–
“Once to every person and nation come the moment to decide. In the conflict of truth with falsehood, for the good or evil side.”
“It takes courage to lead a life. Any life.”
Booing someone rather than debating is cowardly. It’s cowardly because that means you, not them, does not have the courage to defend your idea and thinking.
Maybe cowardly is too harsh. It is definitely lazy and often cloaked in a multi layered cloth of frustration, anger & emotion.
Suffice it to say … both debating & thinking takes some courage in that it forces you to face some things that maybe you do not want to face <and change how and what you think>.
But debating takes even more courage because ideas, when let out into the open, are pretty helpless. They cannot live without some protection. This means whether you feel courageous or not, whether you feel competent in expressing your ideas let alone defending your ideas, you step up to the plate and take some swings.
The cowardly way is to simply sit back and enjoy the comfort of the unsaid opinion & idea.
It is even more cowardly to simply boo or shout down someone who not only wants to share their thinking & ideas but one who is willing to listen, debate & discuss your ideas and thinking.
It is even slightly cowardly to simply rely on ‘groupthink’ <which, by the way, is different than being a sheep and following the crowd>.
Anyway.
I had the fortune to go to graduate school with a case study driven curriculum.
We didn’t follow some syllabus with textbooks and lesson plans … we debated business cases. We quickly learned that cause & effect is rare, solutions are rarely simple and that “one right answer” was the rarest animal of all.
But this was learned by listening and debating and discussing <with some random shouting included>.
We quickly discovered that the glib one-liners <or tweets> actually made little ripple on the surface of the discussion.
Words were demanded by the idea itself to ‘lead’. That means you were demanded to deliver words being in front of your idea, pointing to a direction, saying ‘this way’ and using words to step out into the unknown of a debate in which you knew, at best, your idea was but one of the ‘right answers & solutions.’
You find out quickly … too quickly in fact … theory, it seems, is always easier than practice.
And that is what an idea that remains in your head unspoken is … simply a theory.
If it cannot stand the gauntlet of debate & discussion it remains simply a theory <or opinion> you have and will never go into practice. I believe it was Harry Eckstein <Case Study and Theory in Political Science 1975> who stated that case studies “are valuable at all stages of the theory-building process, but most valuable at that stage of theory building where least value is generally attached to them: the stage at which candidate theories are tested.”
“Censorship is an almost irresistible impulse when you know you are right.
But when we look back at all that used to be seen as the truth, we know that we must keep a free market of ideas open.
The best test of truth is the ability to get accepted in the market.”
–
Freedom of the mind to go in any direction is one of the greatest gifts humankind has been given.
Booing is actually the cowardly form of censorship of ideas … a lazy way of curbing the freedom of the mind.
And, maybe worse, booing someone is a cowardly way of actually caging the mind from exploring new directions.
I will admit.
Booing and shouting someone down and not listening seems weird to me. Weird in that half the battle in Life is simply showing up. So you have shown up <which puts you ahead of a shitload of people> and then you choose to simply show dissatisfaction and offer no solutions … or listen to offered solutions.
I know what I am suggesting isn’t always easy. And that is where courage steps in.
Freedom of mind means leaving what you think behind for a while. It doesn’t mean you can’t ‘come home’ again … but
We live in a weird world these days … alternatively dominated by groupthink and, alternatively, individual opinions are as important as facts, it is a weird world in which feelings seem more important that facts.
In this weird world of ours it is becoming almost impossible to stand against what feels like and inevitable tide and when you do try you can expect a strong wave of cynicism, sarcasm & … well … screaming.
In this weird world of ours if you truly do think for yourself and break free of the herd to think independently about a subject of great importance to you and to the greater world you are demanded to do something other than ‘boo’ or show up and shout.
In fact.
It is what normal people do with good normal ideas when they disagree with someone who has an idea you may not agree with.
Regardless.
I imagine it takes some moral courage to not just boo. And you have to have some courage to understand that it is less important whether you are right or wrong … what matters is that you stand up and challenged what you most likely see as misguided institutionalized groupthink.
“I realize that if you ask people to account for facts they usually spend more time finding reasons for them than finding out whether they are true.
They skip over facts but carefully deduce inferences.
They normally begin thus: “how does this come about?”
But does it so?
That is what they ought to be asking.”
–
I don’t agree with many things going in in the world today and I certainly don’t agree with many things the Trump administration is suggesting they will do.
But if I am going to express my discomfort in their ideas I want to hear their discomfort in my ideas. And while I am under no illusion that we will end up comfortable in some place … I do find comfort in the belief the discourse is more likely to produce a good result then simply shouting or booing.
Too often we enjoy the comfort of opinion without the discomfort of thought.
Look.
I love the fact that people are showing up and speaking out.
And I absolutely understand that many of us are scared to have the debate & discussion because we fear losing that discussion and there is a shitload at risk.
And I absolutely understand that “there are few things more destructive than an unsound idea persuasively expressed” <Bill Bernbach>.
So you know what?
Keep showing up.
Keep expressing your discomfort with ideas you are hearing.
Find someone you trust to express your ideas & your thinking better than you can. And have that person open the debate. Words matter and words used well matter.
Shouting is not only cowardly but, even worse, it cheats words from being able to matter.
Shouting and booing is almost as destructive to a good idea as silence.
Please stop shouting.
Please stop booing.
Please stop not … well … not talking.
The only way out of the weird place it seems like the world is in these days is to talk our way out of it <and beget some doing we can agree on>.
Booing & shouting is not only not productive it is only going to hurt our ears as it only echoes in the hole we are all in … and doesn’t offer us any way out of the fucking hole.
The only way out of any hole is to embrace our god-given gift of the freedom of the mind to take any direction it wishes, undirected.
February 23, 2017by Bruce
“There is not a discovery in science, however revolutionary, however sparkling with insight, that does not arise out of what went before.
‘If I have seen further than other men,’ said Isaac Newton, ‘it is because I have stood on the shoulders of giants.”
Ok.
More often than not we talk about the important new ideas and discoveries as “disruption” or “innovative.”
The implication is that this type of important idea, which supposedly will change the world <but, more often than not, is just a nice idea which will make an impact in its own little universe … assuming it doesn’t die a quick death>, is the only type of idea we should pay attention to.
In other words … the implication is … If it’s not disruptive its crap.
Many, if not most, of the most foundational ‘innovative’ ideas & discoveries the world has ever seen tend to be the most overlooked, unseen to the naked eye, unobtrusive ‘disruptors’ we have ever interacted with.
And I can even point out some examples why it is bullshit.
These are elements.
New elements which will now be placed in to that amazing thing called “The periodic Table of Elements.” <here is a link to The Los Alamos National Library interactive elements Table.
New elements can be named after a mythological concept, a mineral, a place or country, a property or a scientist.
The four new elements, all of which are man-made, were discovered by slamming lighter nuclei into each other and tracking the following decay of the radioactive superheavy elements.
Dmitri Mendeleev published in 1869 the first widely recognized periodic table. He developed his table to illustrate periodic trends in the properties of the then-known elements. Mendeleev also predicted some properties of then-unknown elements that would be expected to fill gaps in this table. Most of his predictions were proved correct when the elements in question were subsequently discovered. Mendeleev’s periodic table has since been expanded and refined with the discovery or synthesis of further new elements and the development of new theoretical models to explain chemical behavior.
All elements from atomic numbers 1 (hydrogen) to 118 (ununoctium) have been discovered or synthesized, with the most recent additions (elements 113, 115, 117, and 118) being confirmed by the IUPAC on December 30, 2015.[1]
Look.
This particular element discovery may seem fairly dry or insignificant but apparently they could be considered key discoveries which will ultimately enable future technology innovations.
Anyway.
In my mind … things like the elements are innovations which I like to call ‘portals to discovery.” They are the incredibly small discoveries which enable huge discoveries.
Just think about it.
Sure.
Maybe this discovery itself is not the most useful … maybe it’s not the most disruptive … nor the most innovative <in the traditional sense> and, yet, the smaller ‘whole’ inevitably leads to a larger more ‘life intrusive’ type improvement in our lives.
How do I view this?
As a nonscientist, non-chemist, non-whatever you need to be to actually use an element directly … I honestly could give a rat’s ass if someone has discovered some individual atoms which affects the overall relationship with other atoms it hangs out with.
But I do know … and I know this for sure as I can be sure … out of the process to identify a unique atom … and maybe even now that someone understands the properties of this atom … someone somewhere will have a light bulb go off in their heads and trundle out of the house with some new idea the rest of us haven’t thought of yet.
As I type this … even though I most likely knew every element on the periodic table when I was in grade school … I doubt I could name … well … I would guess I could name maybe 75% of the elements <by looking at their signs>.
I would also guess anyone reading this had no frickin’ clue what this crazy enlightened conflict site post today was going to be about when “ununtrium ununpentium ununseptium and ununoctium” popped up.
I would also guess that this is most likely the first time 99% of my readers have thought about an element in decades.
That seems kind of crazy when you really think about it.
Most likely some of the most important things which make up how we live, eat and breathe … and live our lives … and the majority of us don’t know diddleyshit about them.
Why?
I would guess it is because they are too little. I would imagine we view them as too insignificant compared to more seemingly significant glamorized ideas and ‘innovations.’
Why do I guess this?
Most likely because … well … if you go online you will find over 3.2 million articles <in less than one second> on finding joy in the little discoveries in Life.
And while I didn’t read each and every one of them … the ones I did sample didn’t say shit about real discovery.
They were all about paying attention to the little things in Life around you.
If there are over 3.2 million articles on that shit why aren’t they mentioning taking a moment and paying attention to the truly meaningful little things which have an inordinately big impact on everyone’s Life.
And by ‘big impact’ … maybe you should think about it this way … if today’s innovators have been successful … have seen farther than others before … it is because they have stood on the shoulders of giants … well … maybe stood on the shoulders of some element in the periodic table.
Regardless.
Take a moment in the near future.
Refresh your memory on the elements you learned about when you were young and maybe become acquainted with the ones which have been discovered since you learned the elements.
If you have a child? Maybe talk about the elements a little bit.
In a world where some seemingly meaningless shit reaches into the headlines on a daily basis … where flashy discovery is defined by new technology and some new widget … some real meaningful shit, like the elements, couldn’t make a headline even if they paid for it.
Give them a moment in your spotlight.
Remind yourself that almost everything that is meaningful in our daily lives stands on the shoulders of some element in the Periodic Table.
July 13, 2016by Bruce
Bigger issues Facing Us, Rants and Observations
intervention when you are the world’s most powerful military
“They were stolen from their beds in a school dormitory — hundreds of teenage girls kidnapped by gunmen.
A few dozen escaped to tell of the night that Boko Haram militants brought terror to a Nigerian girls’ school.
From the rest, silence. No sign of where they had been taken or what could have happened to them for almost two years, even as the world screamed #BringBackOurGirls.”
Until now.
CNN has obtained a video of some of the “Chibok Girls” sent to negotiators by their captors as a “proof of life.”
Sometimes as an American you see something and you wonder “if I have the world’s most effective military why am I not using it?”
To me … Nigeria’s Boko Haram kidnapped young girls made me think this.
I watched the Nigerian mothers watching the video released from Boko Haram … and my heart broke.
I have little interest in using military to intervene in civil wars <like Syria>.
I have little interest in using military to ‘institute democracy.’
I have a lot of interest in selectively using the best of the best military to let them o what they do best and resolve solvable humanitarian situations.
But this Nigerian issue is solvable.
And it is solvable by using the best military in the world.
I mean, c’mon, isn’t that what we, as in America, are supposed to do as a world leader? Solve solvable problems for the greater humanitiarian good?
Does anyone seriously doubt that should the US Marines, the Army Rangers or any special forces group be tasked with “get those girls” that they wouldn’t?
Does anyone seriously believe that Nigeria, or for that matter, any country in the world would be chastising USA for putting US military on foreign soil?
Does anyone seriously believe some well-intended hashtag initiative is going to compel some resolution?
In some cases in some situations the person who CAN do the right thing needs to stand up … walk across the street … and actually DO the right thing.
Some people, in fact, a lot of people are gonna bitch at me … we are not the world police … it is not our problem … we should support Nigeria but not put our soldiers in harm’s way.
They will be wrong in this case.
If it were our children, would we just stand by?
If I were to ask a military person to risk their life would I prefer it to be to save a child or put some new government in place <which I cannot promise will last>?
I challenge anyone in America, shit, around the world … watch the video … watch the mothers … if you could do something … I believe you would.
Look.
I am not a betting man but here is a bet I would take.
I bet … any special forces military person asked to take on this assignment who would call home asking for permission from their mother & father to accept this assignment would only hear one thing from their parents … “go get them.”
April 16, 2016by Bruce
–
<here, in this place, time moves away toward eternity>
–
–
“This is the way the world ends
This is the way the world ends
This is the way the world ends
Not with a bang but a whimper. “
—
–
–
“Has it been in your experience that one’s affairs are always in order and that all life’s conundrums will eventually be made clear?”
–
It is always interesting to read a historical book <What Hath God Wrought: The Transformation of America 1815-1848 by Daniel Walker Howe> and look at what is happening in today’s world.
Historical note on the title of the book.
The first telegraph message, sent by inventor Samuel F.B. Morse on May 24, 1844, over an experimental line from Washington, D.C., to Baltimore, was “What hath God wrought?”
At over 900 pages and pretty academic in its detail and narrative … this book is not for the faint of heart <but very interesting if you can wade through it>. The book is heavy on political history and the role politics & government played, and didn’t play, in the transformation of American society.
Simplistically you see that government has always been functionally dysfunctional constantly lurching through the decisions a country needs to make as it struggles with private versus public, growth and the well-being of its citizens <all within a Constitutional construct>.
In addition … in looking at that one particularly period of history we see everything was magnified, or amplified, by developments in communications <mails, newspaper, books, and telegraph> and mobility/transportation <trains, steamboats, canals, and roads>.
Isn’t that what technology & the internet is doing today?
And that magnification created the same issues we seem to discuss today:
“everything goes fast nowadays, even the winds have begun to improve upon the speed with they have hitherto maintained; everything goes ahead but good manners and sound principles.”
They discussed the delicate balance of empowerment and responsibility within the citizenship … the power of government to enable individualism all the while encouraging the citizenship to use their liberty & freedoms to seek improvement.
“Liberty is power and the citizens have a responsibility to use their freedom.
The spirit of improvement is abroad upon the earth. Let not foreign nations with less liberty exceed us in ‘pubic improvement’ … to do so would ‘cast away the bounties of providence’ and doom what should become the world’s most powerful nation ‘to perpetual inferiority.’
Even in religious environments ‘responsible capitalism’ was discussed:
– As the author points out … even in 1826 preachers were teaching …
“work hard, be thrifty, save your money, don’t go into debt, be honest in business dealings, don’t screw down the wages of those who work for you to the lowest possible level, if you manage a surplus be faithful stewards of your bounty and generous to causes.“
The book does a nice job reminding everyone of the challenges any government faces.
– Tocqueville expresses concern with the future of a democratic government.
“… it rarely forces one to act but it constantly opposes itself to one’s action; it does not destroy it prevents things from being born; it does not tyrannize , it hinders, compromises, enervates, extinguishes, dazes and finally reduces the nation to being nothing more than a herd of timid and industrious animals of which the government is the shepherd.”
Mostly, as I read about a country’s transformation, I was reminded that change is never easy and in the midst of progress you do right things and wrong things and there are consequences for all <and you inevitably have an opportunity to ‘wrong the rights & right the wrongs’>.
It reminded me that we all adapt.
Countries also. Just look at capitalism.
America developed a prosperous example for capitalism and ultimately exported the example. Other countries then adapted the idea creating a customized capitalism to accommodate their needs, wants and desires <which, by the way, may not match America’s>.
Economics is what inevitably changed behavior because as country leaders desired people to be more productive <so they could be more competitive globally> they inevitably had to give them more rights, liberties and avenues to do so.
This means that the expansion of rights was driven by economics … and only curbed by that particular country’s government ideology <or the country’s overall culture>.
I mention that because we Americans tend to look outwards with a sense of righteousness … and the outside world states unequivocally … I do not want to be exactly like you.
I struggle to understand why we in America don’t get this.
Our book stores and amazon are strewn with self-help books shouting “being yourself … don’t be someone else!” … “learn from the best but be nobody but yourself.’
In other words … learn the shared learning and implement as an individual.
Are countries really any different? Why wouldn’t we expect another country to want to maintain its own character and way of doing things?
In addition.
The book reminded me how grumpy I get with people who continuously claim <loudly> that America is declining <i.e., going into the shithole>.
I never really thought of us as a country of whiners, pessimists and blamers <finger pointers>.
Context and perspective … the book once again reminded me of this from a historical perspective.
The book reminded me that in the 19th century there was a relatively balanced global power <hmmmmmmmmmmm … kind of like where we may be heading today?>. Oh, and yes, there was a ‘global economy’ at that time.
And the 21st century began with an extraordinary imbalance in world power.
The United States was the only country able to project military force globally, it represented more than a quarter of the world economy and had the world’s leading “soft-power resources” in its universities and entertainment industry.
America didn’t purposefully build the imbalance … the imbalance was opportunistic and reflective of contextual situations.
What that means is that no one truly knows much about social engineering and how to “build nations.”
The transformation of America in the 1800’s certainly reminded me of that.
At times it appears like America reached its strength position despite itself.
Therefore … if we cannot be sure how to ‘build a nation’ or have some formula to improve the world hubris is dangerous. It certainly seems like what is required is a careful understanding of the context of change.
Look.
Here is what I know <and believe>.
Anyone, and any country, will be successful if it finds its pride cloaked in humility <not hubris>.
I cannot remember where I found this quote but it seems to highlight what Americans should avoid at all costs <domestically as well as internationally>:
—
“Sweep in as if emissaries of light bringing salvation to the natives living in a dark forest. You think you are heroes because people ask for your help and advice. You think that worth works for you will automatically work for everyone else. Your teeth are whiter and your clothes are better and suddenly that permits you to be the ultimate arbiters of public morality.
You assume America, and capitalism, is the ultimate model and you end up judging everything simply by how close it comes to your own ideal. You begin to think you have carte blanche to remake whatever you want to remake in your own image.”
Speaking of humility.
We, everyone in a country leadership role, lurch back and forth between what is right and what is wrong all the while every step taken on a path with a sign that says “what is best for the country & people this way.’
And each step nowadays seems to be burdened by this word ‘compromise.’
Compromise implies ‘giving up something that is right or the best.’
It seems like it would be better to recognize that there is no one right way and no one right answer in heading down this path … all head down the path … it is just an argument over what shoes I want to wear that particular day.
And that is … well … it all seems just fucking insane.
It seems like maybe those spewing forth the idea that the other’s ideas are stupid and the path to greatness is ‘this way’ …and it is the only way … could drink from the cup of humility and accept that our past has certainly taught us that there is no one way nor right way.
Our past is strewn with greatness intermingled with some dark aspects.
Greatness doesn’t reside in our actions or accomplishments … it resides in one’s belief in hope & the future. Greatness resides in the ability to keep an eye on the horizon and the ability to put one foot in front of the other, sometimes not knowing where your foot will exactly land, on this path of ‘better.’
Ralph Waldo Emerson … “America is a country of the future. It is a country of beginnings, of projects, of vast designs and expectations.”
Daniel Walker Howe writes on page 853 … “Americans live by hope for the future but their conflicting hopes for their country and their own lives provoke dissension.
Americans are constantly proposing new ideas and then wrangling over them.”
America is, and always has been, a country of the future.
We always have and always will.
The moment we accept that, and embrace that, we accept dissension and accept that sometimes we will get it right … and sometimes we will get it wrong … because … well … while maybe being a great nation we are inevitably a great big group of people trying to do the best they can without having any specific formula for what to do.
The news of the decline & demise of America is tiring. Or maybe better said “the reports of my death have been greatly exaggerated” <Mark Twain>.
Frankly.
That’s why I hack my way through 900 page history books … to gain and maintain some perspective.
Sure.
Sometimes I learn something.
But mostly it gives me some perspective on what is happening today.
One last random thought.
I am not a speechwriter nor am I politician <most likely not qualified for either> … but … it slightly puzzles me that we don’t hear more Ralph Waldo Emerson or Adams or … well … many of the great American philosophical thinkers of the mid 1800’s quoted or used to make a point.
They had the ability to capture the American spirit, the American desire to ‘do things’, the American power of individualism and the American belief that government supports to ‘better.’
But, hey, that’s me.
And if they did … well … then I couldn’t use all their great words and I wouldn’t have a blog.
October 22, 2015by Bruce
Bigger issues Facing Us, Favorite Quotes, Rants and Observations
It’s 2012 and it feels more uneasy than normal. It feels like there is an imbalance and that imbalance creates uncertainty and uncertainty begets fear which inevitably means we begin scrutinizing whether this is actual change or simply a rocky patch in the status quo. Is this part of cyclical history (the study of the fact we are doomed to make the same errors because of generational experience or lack of experience depending on where we are in the cycle) and how will our existing attitudes which affect behavior & beliefs day in and day out?
Regardless. It appears to be a world becoming more troublesome and increasingly challenging right before our eyes and, to some people, the end of the world as we know it is upon us. Apparently enough people feel that way because National Geographic Channel has a new reality show, Doomsday Preppers, which profiles Americans who have taken extreme measures to plan for a forthcoming apocalypse — whether natural disaster, nuclear war or economic crisis. Oh. And the channel commissioned an online survey of 1,007 adults in the USA, and found that 61% of Americans believe the country will experience a major catastrophic event within the next 20 years.
Personally I find programs like that silly and simply fueling the discussion, but you don’t ahve to be a researcher to hear a thread of “will it really be okay?” throughout many conversations today.
Anyway. Let me suggest a one word reason for why we all feel this unrest.
Imbalance. It may sound too simplistic but sometimes the best answers are that simple.
There is imbalance in the inequality of income (haves and have nots).
There is an imbalance in global economic superiority (as the power of economy shifts).
There is an imbalance in government (if you think about it … almost 2/3rd of the world population will be affected by elections in the next year and a half). Oh. And that doesn’t even take into consideration the ‘unexpected’ elections like in the middle east and countries in Africa.
There is an imbalance in currency & debt (anything financial makes people nervous).
There is an imbalance in military and politics (there is no such thing as a military war anymore … only geopolitical wars using military to enforce ideological aims).
There is an imbalance not just globally, but within individual country construct & infrastructure (and THIS creates an unsettling thought of country mortality, i.e., will my country even exist type thinking).
——
** note: country mortality is a consideration (book recommendation: Vanished Kingdoms) as historically nations cycle between consolidation (bigger is better) and fragmentation (city-states). I would also note this parallels the business world **
All that imbalance (not just perception, but reality) unsettles people emotionally — which increases the perception of risk. Inevitably, people tend to pay more attention to large-scale events (and troubles) that are unlikely rather than less catastrophic events that are more probable.
This emotional investment tires people and some unexpected things arise.
Social revolutions, or social upheavals at a minimum, adds to the general feel of geopolitical & global unrest & turmoil. We focused (in the West) on the Arab world which has been swept by the Arab Spring that we rushed to label as a chain of “democratic revolutions” (social revolution for ‘the good’). Unfortunately (although probably foreseeable if we had taken the time to think about it) the Arab spring turned later in the year to new regimes, which combine the old authoritarianism with Islamism, and appear to offer far weaker stability. In addition. Most ‘developed democratic-leaning’ countries predicted that the seeds of the Arab Spring would spring forth in Russia or China. Instead social revolution bubbled up in unexpected places. In an especially remarkable phenomenon social protests and revolts have become grassroots efforts in affluent Western societies, and although the demonstrators calling for the occupation of Wall Street and other places refer to the example of the Arab Spring, the causes of protests in the West are certainly not rooted in tyranny combined with corruption, or in informational semi-openness and semi-famine evidenced in the Arab world, but rather a more foundational “imbalance” (or inequality) which is an inherent belief (if not an actual truth) within democratic societies.
The social unrest enhances an underlying “us versus them” narrative (which can be used for good – address institutional change – or for bad — populism).
What does all this mean?
Uncertainty of Nations. It translates into creating a larger general uncertainty of viability of individual nations within a larger global construct.
For example … while it is easy to think of today’s European countries as natural sub-units of the continent they were often welded together from a mix of peoples, overlapping in the same physical terrain, but willing to live together in some varying degree of harmony. And time & time again we have seen examples of situations where that welding has come apart (Soviet Union, Austrian empire, ottoman empire to Turkey, Yugoslavia, among examples). Therefore this deeper emotional underpinning has a longer term functional foundation (based on reality whether there is a conscious inherent knowledge residing in people’s brains or not we are all steeped in a historical knowledge we have gathered over the years).
That means subconsciously we are quite aware that many city/states have disappeared over time.
Do we believe it can happen today … and to us? Well. I am not sure this is all about “belief”, but rather it is about ‘possibilities’. The possibility it could happen. It is a possibility, and belief, “nothing lasts forever.” History argues that while today’s major countries may seem permanent, they too will eventually fade, or change into very different forms. This current imbalance is creating an unprecedented swift redistribution of power in the economy accompanied by an increasing redistribution of power in politics. Even Europe is considering asking for financial assistance from the communist China (who would have ever thought that) and Russia is forcing itself into the oil economy (and using it as a tool to politically maneuver).
We are witnesses to an unfolding sharp competition for natural resources, food and even land/territories that looks much like what happened in 1850 – 1950 period. The old geopolitical struggle is obviously making a comeback – on a markedly new footing.
depth & breadth. I think what is surprising everyone is the depth & breadth of the unrest.
Maybe call it a sea of change. Yemen, Sudan, USA, china, Afghanistan, Belarus, Ukraine, Israel/Palestine, Egypt, Greece, Tunisia, ivory coast, north & south Korea … the list seems endless. The list includes big & small. It feels like the highest level of turmoil and unrest globally I have felt in my lifetime.
What is going on in the Middle East just seems part of something far bigger.
Who would have thought we would see protesters in Iran, New York City, Paris, Moscow, Kiev all at the same time. It is reminiscent of the labor protests that spanned America and all of Europe in the early 1900s when communism was rearing its head for the first time.
With that 1900 reference, does the fetid breath of world war three whispers in our ears? (source: foreign affairs essay)
Well. On one hand World War Three seems long overdue in the cycle of things. World War Two was supposed to be the war that ended all wars in the world. And while there was a Soviet Union and a USA and a Cold War, the geopolitical situation was balanced, but with the shifting of economic power among a variety of nations vying for superiority (power) things are now unbalanced.
Anyway. I mention WW2 because it does feel like a WW3 (or some version of it) sometimes feels imminent (note: a world war may not be conducted in a traditional military fashion but rather thru cyberwar, economic war, informational war). For context all we have to think of is the late 1800’s into early 1900’s.
Look.
I am not suggesting we are aiming for a global military conflict, but I am suggesting we should be prepared for several more years of turmoil and global unrest. And mentally be prepared, because it isn’t Armageddon, it is simply a confluence of factors & change which will attack our attitudes and beliefs.
Let me go back to the late 1880’s leading into World War 1. Several things created the perfect storm for WW1 but simplistically it was a combination of social unrest (labor & communism), cultural unrest (countries welded together were becoming unglued as each distinct segment sought some individuality) and alliance/national power within a fragile interconnected global construct. Almost every country was truly trying to deflect domestic issues by focusing on foreign issues. It is a fact that leaders are more likely to engage in diversionary foreign policy behavior only when domestic unrest threatens a loss of political support from groups that are politically important to the leadership.
By the time all aspects of all causes had reached their apex almost every nation involved was just looking for an excuse to start the war. Regardless. Some interesting things from this time period:
– Dollar diplomacy — President Taft urged American banks and businesses to invest in Latin America. He promised that the United States would step in if unrest threatened their investments.
– Spanish-American War: Puerto Rico was annexed by the United States. The United States asserted the right to intervene in Cuban affairs.
– Panama Canal and the role of Theodore Roosevelt (boy … this one is going to sound an awful like middle east waterways and supporting middle east ‘democracies’). United States encouraged Panama’s independence from Colombia.
– U.S. efforts to depose Hawaii’s monarchy; U.S. annexation of Hawaii.
– Americans wanted to “make the world safe for democracy.” – Woodrow Wilson
– In 1890’s (report from the Superintendent of the Census):
Many Americans believed U.S. had to expand or explode … increase in population, wealth, and industrial production demanded more resource.
Some feared existing resources in U.S. might eventually dry up
Panic of 1893 convinced some businessmen industry had overexpanded resulting in overproduction & underconsumption
Labor violence and agrarian unrest (Populism) rampant due to industrialism.
– Foreign trade becoming increasingly important to American economy in late 19th century. Americans considered acquiring new colonies to expand markets further.
And we shouldn’t ignore the ‘little things’ that led to WW1:
Venezuela Crisis, 1902 — Germany sank two Venezuelan gunboats trying to seek forced payment for heavy Venezuelan debt to Germany.
Russo-Japanese War (1904) and Japanese-American relations. Russia and Japan went to war over issue of ports in Manchuria & Korea.
– Japan destroyed much of Russian fleet (this was the first defeat of a non-European power since the Turkish invasion of 1500s)
– As war dragged on, Japanese ran short of men and money.
– Theodore Roosevelt eager to prevent either side from gaining a monopoly in Asia but did not seek war (Japan secretly asked Roosevelt to help sponsor peace negotiations)
I am not going to walk through every correlation between past events and current events because some are too obvious to ignore. Different time and different attitude? Surely. But to ignore re-occurring events is like putting your head in the sand.
“military campaigns have actually turned into international political campaigns. The new strategic logic aims not to destroy an enemy state but to overpower it with a view to subordinating it to the victor’s interests politically and economically. The meaning of war has changed from inflicting a military defeat on the enemy to “tailoring” it to the attacker’s needs.”
All that said. There is an imbalance in military, diplomacy and politics (there is no such thing as a military war anymore only geopolitical wars using military to enforce ideological aims).
A World War3? Probably not. Today’s ideologies dampen enthusiasm for that extensive a conflict. It is more of a geopolitical conflict than a military one (where military is subservient to politics and more enforcing ideological direction rather than simply destroying the enemy).
But. I would imagine there is an exception to this thought … where someone with enough military impact decides to break the code and like dominoes (similar to WW1) militarily things escalate. If I were in Las Vegas I would put it at low odds, but it could happen.
Interestingly the internet plays a role in the unrest. It has created a platform for a Global Voice therefore making differences between nations and antagonism between peoples less and less on a daily basis. The unrest is actually being created not between nations, but rather more often WITHIN the nation.
It is an interesting unexpected dynamic.
It is antagonism between classes moreso than antagonism between nations (although an opportunistic amoral leader could leverage antagonism by making a ‘nation’ a common enemy of the classes).
And I imagine that makes the unbalance hit each of us on more of a personal level.
That said.
As I have said many times before. Individuals can make a difference. And we can impact the depth & breadth as well as the feelings that are all part of social unrest. And, in the end, the unrest will only really end when we find some balance. Because the balance will end up linking domestic change and international conflict — ‘war’ conflicts combined with labor/social unrest. With today’s far reaching technology, while there are natural Global conflict cycles, conflict (or unrest) feeds upon itself.
Think about this (and bear with me because I won’t have the numbers exactly right but you get the point)..
Over 25% of the world’s countries will have a change in government (this includes China, USA & Russia). That is natural domestic unrest. And it creates some global angst as this affects almost 50% of the population with these three alone. I say that to help people understand there is going to be some natural unrest globally just due to the cycle of governmental things.
But those things bleed into our psyche. And it all becomes exacerbated by many countries which are experiencing immense difficulty in adapting to the results of shared unrest (and shared thinking).
And all nations are concerned at any prospect of losing a meaningful role in the global society.
And all governments are haunted by the specter of unrest and revolution <and as a result many are far too happy to deflect conflict from the domestic scene to foreign affairs and to form dangerous domestic alliances>.
In the end. Hold on to something tight because this isn’t going to end for another 2 years (at minimum). My prediction is that this is a decade-long shift of power before we find true balance again.
| 84,301 |
Hey, what’s up guys? I’m David Glenn with davidglennrecording.com and The Pro Audio Files. We are in The Mix Template Series, and we’ve come to vocals.
Pretty straight forward video, nothing too crazy, but nonetheless, we’re going to go through it and show you a look at my template, give you some thoughts, some ideas for creating your own templates to help it just kind of be there when you pull open a mix, you already have everything that you need.
Before we get going, if you haven’t already, please subscribe to the channel. We’d love to have you subscribe so we can get you more free content. Also, the Facebook page, facebook.com/davidglennrecording. I’m going to be doing some live Q&A and uploading some exclusive videos there, and then if you want to download this mix template, I’ve got free downloads of my mix template, the exact template I used for every song, every genre, and then a stock plugins version, and then I’m working on, if not already, at getting the rest of the DAWs out there — Studio One, Logic, Cubase, etcetera, templates for all of the different DAWs uploaded, and you can get that at davidglennrecording.com.
So moving right along, we’ve got vocals, and we’re just going to focus in on these three tracks right here. We’ve got tenor, alto, and soprano. Now, I mix a lot of live Gospel, live CCM type stuff, and that’s where this comes from for the Tenor, Alto, and Soprano. I break those up into the different sections, and I — really straight forward, I have an EQ and a compressor on each of those, because ultimately, those three tracks will go to the BGVs buss right here.
Now, if I have a song where — excuse me — where it’s not tenor, alto, soprano parts, then I will rename those and call it gang vocals. Men, women, whatever it is, and I’d have those already setup, ready to go. It’s a pretty straight forward process. I’ll EQ, notch out some of the bottom, shape it a little bit, drive whatever I want to drive into the compressor, and I love the 1176 for this, and then I’m moving right along. Those go to the BGVs where I’ll globally affect the backgrounds as a whole.
Now, if I have a bunch of backgrounds, different parts throughout a Pop song, modern Pop track, the backgrounds in the verse may need to be very different than the backgrounds in the chorus. I’ll break all of those up and organize them, but ultimately, they’re going to hit a BGVs buss like this.
Here, I’ve got the Virtual Channel on my template, and then an EQ. Pretty straight forward. Now, I may throw in CLA effects, or Nectar 2 from iZotope, or something and click through and just kind of create something larger than life, but for background vocals, I tend to rely heavily on just getting them squashed, getting them compressed really good, and then shaping the tone, filtering them out.
Sometimes they have practically no top end, sometimes they have, you know, only top end and no bottom. Just depends on the track and what I’m going for, but I’ll shape it with EQ. Then I rely on effects sends.
So I’ve got all of these setup over here. We’re going to get to effects in the next video, but I want to kind of show you real quick, I’ve got a couple of slap delays, which are going to be for creating a kind of an impression of more singers. If I’ve got background vocals and I want it to sound like a little bit more people were involved in the background recording, then slap delays, left and right, offset slightly different times can help sound like a little more people. Little larger group.
I’ve got a vocal dimension preset from the Cooper Time Cube. Again, we’ll look at that in the video next when we talk about the effects sends, but the Cooper Time Cube has a vocal dimension preset that I love. It sounds great. I’ve got that in there as a send. I’ve also got this Stereo Dimension D widening effect. Chorusing.
Next up, we’ve got a vocal plate. Got the EMT from UAD is in here. I’ve got a short room, a chamber, a hall, an atmospheric hall, and then a Gino Hall. So they’re all in there, they’re ready to go. Very straight forward, those are the background vocals.
Next up, we’re going to look at the lead vocal, and it’s important to note, I don’t always — I should say it like this, I always start with my lead vocal in this chain here, I’m going to break it down for you, but there are many times when I ditch this, especially if I’m dealing with a home studio, kind of closet vocal sound.
This is my chain for parallel compression. I like to hit the vocal, knock down some of the transients, get it under control here on the lead vocal audio track. Then I send into the P-Comp here for parallel compression. I hit that with an 1176 pretty hard, squash it ten, twenty dB of reduction. It depends — this is all buttons in mode. That sometimes I change.
But then I follow it up with a limiter. I mean, I’m squashing this thing. And then I blend that in to taste. Depends on the song. I’ll automate that between sections, but this is my standard kind of go-to vocal chain, and then I follow by sending the lead vocal — you know, it’s compressed here, but it’s not squashed to death.
Then the squashed to death lead parallel compression track, those meet at the lead vocal level. You can see, they’re going out to lead vocal level. This is the parallel chain going out to lead vocal level. So these two blend and meet at this buss, where I’ve got EQ ready to go to dial that in, shape it to the tone of the track, and miscellaneous plugins here.
Some EQ, I’ve got Alloy 2 is a great one, Nectar 2 is really great for kind of once you get it compressed and sitting a certain way, presets can be fun. Kind of go through, reverse engineer what they’re doing, tweak to taste, that can be cool there, but then Clariphonic for the top end in the vocal. I’ll show you that. You guys probably already know what the Kush Clariphonic is. The hardware unit is amazing. This is the Mark II, the second version of the plugin, the first version of the plugin was great, this one is even better. Love that.
But whatever EQ you want there, whatever compressor or limiter you want here, for the stock plugins version, I’ve got the stock Avid limiter. For the EQ, I think I just have a standard EQ.
So you can go through and you kind of build your chain similar to this. I’ve got a standard 1176 into an LA2, then that sends into the parallel compression, so we’ve got mono audio track, mono auxiliary input, or aux buss, and then we have another aux, mono, for the lead vocal level there.
So Clariphonic with top end, I’ve got another compressor if I want to go even further after I’ve kind of got it there. Maybe I want it to just sit, glue the vocal together a little bit more, help the dynamics, and I’ll hit it with another compressor.
I de-ess in stages, so I typically de-ess at the track level with clip gain. So I’ll go through and manually clip gain the track. Then I’ve got a first stage de-esser here on the audio track. I’ve got a de-esser set on the parallel chain, just in case it’s a little bit much, and then on the lead vocal level, I’ve got another de-esser right here towards the end of the track for just kind of emergencies if I need it. Throw it on, de-essing slightly, 2, 3, 4dB in stages tends to go a little bit more smoothly than trying to hit it 7, 8, 10dB in one go.
So de-essing in stages along the way. Then on this lead vocal level, we’ve got the sends. So we’ll definitely cover that in the next video, and then even more so in the video coming up in the next series, we’re going to actually mix a song together. I’m going to show you how I use all of these effects, but we’ll show some examples in the next video when we look at the effects sends.
So I mention that I don’t always use this chain, and really, the reason for me to walk away from this chain would be if — I mentioned, if I get a closet vocal sound. You get that dreaded comb filtering, or just nasty room ambience in a vocal, those types of recording don’t do well with smashed hard parallel compression, so I’ll typically just ix-nay all this, ignore it, create a new track, and just go to work and see if I can maybe ride the vocal in a little bit more as opposed to smashing it with compression.
So moving on from there, I’ve got a couple of vocal sends here, the lead Aphex is the Aural Exciter from Waves. Shoutout to Andrew Scheps for that one, I really like what that does. Don’t use it too often, but it’s there for me if I want to. Then a lead saturation, but again, I’ve mentioned Bluecats Pathwork a couple of times. I really enjoy using that, I come over here, grab Bluecats Patchwork, load it up, put a couple of plugins in there, saturation, you know, distortion, delay effects, you can just kind of chain it all in there, and just kind of use this as a mix knob to just blend to taste or automate the mix knob between sections.
It could be a lot of fun, so just kind of make up stuff as we go, but anyways, looking at the vocals, it was fairly straight forward, we move down to the all vocals buss, that’s where all the vocals go, I don’t care if it’s a background, a lead, a oh, an ah, they all end up here at all vocals, and sometimes, I’ll hit it with Saturation Knob, I’ll maybe add a little more top end globally if I add some top end to the drums and the music and whatever, sometimes I’ll add just a little gentle kiss of it from here on the buss, but it’s rare. I usually handle that at the track level.
And that’s it. So pretty straight forward again with the vocals, but I hope you dig that. Please feel free to comment below, like, subscribe, and we’re going to move in to kind of the good stuff of this whole series is going to be in the effects sends, so I’ve got an effects send section for vocals, and then I have an effects send section for the instrument tracks, and then of course, I’ve got the — all the good stuff at the bottom of the template with the reverbs and whatnot.
So we will look at effects in the next video. I’ll give some audio examples and we’ll have some fun on that. Moving on to the next video, and I’ll see you guys there.
David Glenn is a producer/engineer/musician based out of Orlando, FL. Credits include: Pablo Villatoro, Blanca Callahan (Group 1 Crew), Aimee Allen, and more. Learn more and get in touch at davidglennrecording.com.
| 10,365 |
SDSM’s major postulate is that people are good, they want freedom and equality, but they also need solidarity. Every human being is an individual person, equally worthy as any other human being. Any human being, each of us, deserves a chance to realize his/her own dreams for better life. Opportunities cannot be chances only for few, or the majority, but for all. Therefore, citizens deserve political solutions that are stable, progressive and prosperous. Solutions that will continuously lead the country to a better tomorrow, better life, stronger economy, technical modernization, reduction of poverty, enhancement of personal freedoms, equality, stable and equitable society, professional administration, developed and independent municipalities, preservation of the environment, regional cooperation and full integration in international organizations.
History clearly teaches us that the left wing in Macedonia has always been fearless and progressive. It was exactly these postulates and the enormous respect for our ancestors that compelled us to commit ourselves to build independent Macedonia. Even today we do not retreat from our ideas. We do not escape from the responsibility of the past as well as from the responsibility to face the challenges of the future - to build the state and fight for better future. State interests have always been a priority for us, not only those of today but those of tomorrow. Instead of populism we offer pragmatic and real political solutions. Our dedication to the development of Macedonia is our major motive, while courage and progressivity are our main features. Patriotism and love to our homeland are our lodestars.
SDSM Program is our political platform and our vision for the development of the country. We are dedicated to seeing a new, different, better Macedonia within 10 years. We want to see Macedonia economically developed, without poverty, with employed and socially secured citizens. We commit ourselves to improving personal freedoms, higher collective rights and people treated equally by institutions that function in line with highest professional standards. We strive for equality and equity for all citizens and equal representation of women in all spheres of society. We commit ourselves to higher political culture, strong and critical public debate in independent media, tolerance of diversities and active citizens that will be included in adoption and implementation of the political solutions be it personally or through their association. We call for better relations and cooperation with all our neighbors. To that end, we work to see Macedonia as full-fledged member of NATO and EU.
Development of democracy and freedom.
Equality and solidarity are foundations of society.
Respect of dialogue and tolerance.
Every right bears responsibility.
Corporate governance and new partnership.
Socially accountable market economy.
Peace and security through regional integrations and international cooperation.
| 3,133 |
Need Help With your assignment? Get expert academic writing assistance! We can write any paper on any subject within the tightest time.
Hire A Writer
Competency
Prioritize nursing care strategies for clients with cardiovascular disorders.
Cardiac disease a one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Since it is so prevalent, you want to ensure your co-workers are fully prepared to care for patients. You are hosting a lunch to provide a refresher on heart disease and how to care for patients. During the lunch, you will present a PowerPoint Presentation to your co-workers.
Choose one of the cardiac diseases that we covered in the last two modules. Within your presentation include:
Provide a detailed overview of the disease process
Multidimensional care including risk reduction, health promotion, and nursing interventions specific to the disease process
Need Help With your assignment? Get expert academic writing assistance! We can write any paper on any subject within the tightest time.
Hire A Writer
Related
← Consider the following constituents: [incerdibly full of cucumber juice from tha → Please follow all directions in Essie instructions double spaced, 12 pt. font,
| 1,239 |
It doesn’t matter whether you sell physical goods or digital products, selling online in South Africa has never been simpler.
Over the last 10 years, I have worked with and sold on most of the online platforms available to South Africans. I still sell both physical and digital products and have experience working with most of the payment gateways South Africans are able to use to sell online.
This article is a summary of what I have learnt over the last decade of selling online in South Africa…
In order to sell online in South Africa you need three things:
An online platform to sell your product on
A way to take payments or payment processor
What you are selling online in South Africa will more often than not dictate the platform you choose to sell on. For physical products, platforms like Shopify or Woocommerce amongst others are perfect. While for digital products, the options are endless.
In this post I am going to share with you the best way to start selling online in South Africa.
The first consideration when wanting to sell online in South Africa is to decide what products you are going to sell…
How to sell your products online in South Africa
When choosing to sell your products online, the first thing to take into consideration is whether they are physical or digital products.
The internet has changed the world shops and if a product is able to be transported, you can sell it online (Which is pretty much anything). If you are able to sell a product in person, you will be able to sell it online.
The same applies to selling digital products in South Africa. It’s never been easier to sell things like eBooks, online courses and digital downloads than it is now.
What you are selling online in South Africa will largely dictate whether or not you’ll be able to build a successful online business. Just like selling in the offline world, having a great product matters.
Most people have a product in mind when they decide they want to start selling online in South Africa. (If you don’t have a product to sell online, affiliate marketing is a great place to start if you want to make money online)
It’s the next second two parts of the equation that trip people up.
The good news is, it’s easier than you think to sell online in South Africa right now. The biggest stumbling block when it comes to selling online is choosing which is the best platform to sell on…
Selling online in South Africa does come with its own unique set of challenges. Even though it’s never been easier, there are still some hurdles we need to get over in order to sell online. The biggest of those hurdles is which payment processor to use. (I’ll cover how to take payments when selling online in South Africa later in this article)
If you’re wanting to sell physical or digital products online, these are the best online selling platforms in South Africa you can use: (Click on any of the links below to learn more about them)
Wix
There are many more online selling platforms available to use, but many of them aren’t available to South Africans because they don’t Integrate with South African payment gateways (I’ll explore that later in this article too).
Let’s dig into these online selling platforms in a bit more detail…
Shopify as an online selling platform has levelled the playing field for anyone wanting to sell products online in South Africa. Creating an online selling platform using Shopify is as simple as it comes.
Even if you are not tech-savvy, Shopify is very easy to set up. Shopify is theme-based which means changing the look and feel of your online selling platform is easy.
Shopify also integrates with most South African payment gateways so taking payments is a breeze too.
One of the disadvantages of using Shopify is that it can become quite expensive. Shopify charges a monthly fee to use the platform and they also take a percentage of your sales revenue.
You can try Shopify for free by clicking here. (I’ve also done a FULL cost breakdown on what Shopify costs to run in South Africa here)
WooCommerce is another giant in the e-commerce or online selling space. Many online selling platforms in South Africa are powered by WooCommerce.
WooCommerce runs off the extremely popular WordPress framework. WordPress is an open-source content management system that you are able to use to build a website. (I have created this free step-by-step tutorial that will show you exactly how to create an online selling platform using WordPress)
The biggest attraction to WooCommerce when starting out selling online in South Africa is that it is free to use. The other big advantage of using woocommerce is that because it is plug-in based It supports almost all South African payment gateways.
There are however two big disadvantages to using Woocommerce. The first one is that in order to get maximum functionality you will need extra plugins. Many of these woocommerce plugins are Premium plugins which means you need to pay for them.
The second disadvantage of using WooCommerce is that the learning curve is quite steep. figuring out how to do things or to customise the look and feel within WordPress can take a lot of time. The money you save up front on not paying for an online selling platform does tend to stack up the longer you use WooCommerce.
You can learn more about WooCommerce here.
Wix
Another very popular online selling platform is Wix. Wix is also template-based and allows you to drop and drag components within those templates to modify the look and feel of your website.
Just like shopify Wix is very easy to use and also integrates with the most popular South African payment gateways.
One of the big advantages of using Wix is that you can start for free. but in order to get access to all the functionality and to have adverts removed you do need to upgrade to one of their premium plans.
It is also important to bear in mind and this is one of the biggest disadvantages of Wix is that you aren’t able to export all your content and products that you sell online in South Africa if you would like to move to a different online selling platform.
You can learn more about Wix and sign up for a free trial here.
Brutal is another online selling platform that is available to South Africans wanting to sell their products online. Much like WordPress, Drupal is also an open-source content management system that works on a framework that allows the use of themes and plugins period in
The Drupal ecommerce selling platform is not as widely used as WooCommerce but is fairly robust and allows for modification and customisation.
Just like WordPress and WooCommerce, Drupal is free to use but many of the themes and plugins are premium and will cost you in the long run.
The main disadvantage of using Drupal is that the user base of developers is not as big as a platform like WordPress. Finding someone who can help should you run into any challenges may become a problem.
WP EasyCart is another great e-commerce solution that runs on the WordPress framework. WP EasyCart is a great alternative to WooCommerce and also integrates with many South African payment gateways.
WP Easycart Is a premium plugin but does everything you need to be able to sell online in South Africa, out of the box. WP Easycart also integrates with most of the big South African payment gateways, so taking payments when you sell online is not a problem.
When comparing WP Easycart to WooCommerce it’s easy to look at the price tag on WP Easycart and choose to go the WooCommerce route. It is important to bear in mind with WP Easycart that you won’t need to purchase additional plugins to enable you to sell online in South Africa.
You can sign up for a free trail of WP EasyCart here.
An online selling platform that is available to South Africans that is not as well known as the platforms discussed above is Jumpseler. Just like Shopify, Jumpseller is an out-of-the-box e-commerce solution that allows you to sell your products online with minimal technical skill or requirement.
Jumpseller is slightly cheaper than Shopify but doesn’t have as many bells and whistles. Jumpseller also allows you to change the look and feel of your online selling platform by using themes. Jumpseller is also fully responsive which means your online store looks great on both desktop and mobile.
A big Plus for Jumpseller is they don’t charge additional transaction fees for using their platform as Shopify does.
You can learn more about Jumpseller here.
Another option for an online selling platform to look at if none of the options discussed above work for you is Site.pro. Site.pro also integrates with a few of the major South African payment gateways.
Site.pro also has an online website builder which makes it fairly easy to build your online store.
It is one of the cheaper options to use when it comes to wanting to sell online.
You can learn more about Site.pro here.
Another little known way to sell your online in South Africa is by selling on third party marketplaces…
Online marketplaces in South Africa
If you sell physical products a great option to sell online in South Africa is by using websites that allow third-party sellers to sell on their online platform. There are many of these platforms available however not all of them provide great results.
The four big online marketplaces in South Africa to sell online are:
Let’s take a look into each of these online marketplaces in South Africa in more detail.
Takealot is the largest online retailer in South Africa. They currently have a customer database of 1.8 million customers. In order to sell on the Takealot website you need to apply to through their seller portal.
You can learn more about the Takealot Seller Portal here.
Makro has been a big name in retail in South Africa for a long time. Over the last few years Makro have made a big push into selling online in South Africa. They have also built a third party online marketplace that allows you to sell products on the Makro website.
You can learn more about the Makro seller portal here
Zando is one of the big online clothing retailers in South Africa. Zando also allows clothing brands to sell their products on the Zando website. If you are a clothing brand wanting to sell online in South Africa then joining Zando’s online marketplace is a great place to start.
You can learn more about the Zando Online Marketplace here.
Loot is another one of the big South African online retailers. They started out selling books online but have branched out into many more verticals. If you currently have products that you would like to sell online and are looking for a distribution channel, the Loot online marketplace may be for you.
You can learn more about the Loot Online Marketplace here.
Now that we’ve looked at all the online selling platforms available, it is time to dig into how to take payments when selling online in South Africa…
How to take payments when you sell online in South Africa
Taking payments when you sell online seems like it should be such an easy process. Unfortunately, for South Africans, this is not the case. Just like there are many selling platforms available to us as South Africans, there are also many ways to take payments when you sell online.
Here is the list of the easiest ways to take payments when you sell online in South Africa:
There are many more ways to take payments when you sell online in South Africa (I’ve created this article on the best and cheapest payment gateways in South Africa) but I have listed the 5 easiest ways above. Let’s look at each one of these ways to take payments when selling online in South Africa:
Most online selling platforms allow you the option of an electronic fund transfer or aft as the form of payment. how this works is your customer will make the purchase and select the option to transfer the funds into your bank account. this is a really simple way to take payments when selling online in South Africa but there is one massive risk when taking payments this way.
As an online seller you need to make 110% certain that the money is in your bank account before shipping the product to your customer. there are countless stories of online businesses in South Africa been scammed by customers who have simply sent through fake proofs of payment.
Although this is the simplest way to take payments when you sell online it certainly isn’t the safest.
Cash on delivery
the second way to take payments online is by offering cash on delivery. you would need to partner with a courier company that allows this but it is certainly a simple way to take payments when you sell online.
there is risk here too particularly when selling in the South Africa environment that you could dispatch goods and for whatever reason they go missing in transit you as the online retailer will be out of pocket.
I would suggest using a payment processor take payments online before dispatching any products. one of the most widely used is PayFast.
Payfast integrates with nearly all of the online selling platforms are available to South Africans wanting to sell online. it’s certainly integrate with all the platforms . mentioned in this post.
it is fairly simple to set up a payfast account. Once you are approved to sell online, integrating it with the platform you choose is also easy. The payfast integration documentation is extensive and will walk you through the process.
PayPal is another option to take payments when selling online in South Africa. You would need to set up a PayPal account and link it to your South African bank account in order to receive payments. There are some online selling platforms (like teachable for example) that allow you to use their payment processor and they then pay you out in PayPal.
A few things to note when using PayPal to take payments when selling online in South Africa of the following. Because the base currency when you use PayPal is the US dollar, there are a lot of additional fees to take into account. One of which is the cost of converting the US Dollar to Rands.
There are also fees involved when you withdraw money from your PayPal account into your South African bank account. I would use only PayPal as a last resort to take payments when selling online in South Africa.
Another simple way to take payments when you sell online in South Africa is to use SnapScan. SnapScan is a free app that your customer can download to the smartphone which allows them to make payments conveniently from their mobile device.
Setting up a Snapscan account is very easy (It’s a simple FICA process) and they also integrate with some of the online selling platforms mentioned above, like woocommerce and shopify.
If you are looking for a payment gateway to use for your online store in South Africa, then here is a list of the best payment gateways in South Africa (And which is the cheapest)
I know this has been a lot to take in but you’re now probably wondering ‘How much is this all going to cost me?’ then I’ve written this article about the cost of running an online store in South Africa that you will find extremely helpful.
I hope this post has helped you on your journey to sell online in South Africa. If you have any questions about how to sell online in South Africa then join our free online community called the South African Online Business Lab.
If you would like to access my free training on the 7 ways to make money online in South Africa, you can do so here or download the list of tools are used to make money online in South Africa right now.
Recent Posts
link to How Much Does It Cost To Start An Internet Cafe In South Africa?
Starting an internet cafe in South Africa can be quite simple and cheap to get off the ground. There are great opportunities for entrepreneurs to start an internet cafe in South Africa at a low...
If you're looking for a payment gateway in South Africa then this everything you need to know about accepting payments both off and online.
I'm a full-stack digital marketer with a serious podcasting & Youtube addiction.
Over the last 10 years, I've personally created numerous websites, podcasts & online courses.
I've worked with large multi-national corporations, built several online businesses and have consulted to a number of clients to help them grow their reach, impact and most importantly their income online.
To learn more about me and what I do, please watch the video below:
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. We also participate in programs from Teachable, Convertkit, WPEngine, Clickbank, ShareASale, and other sites. Brad Brown is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies.
| 17,655 |
I thought it would be useful to, both for myself and any potential readers, to reflect on what it feels to do a PhD. For brief background, I am a fresh PhD graduate, having defended my work in May 2021 at University of Essex, Department of Psychosocial and Psychoanalytic Studies. My thesis (PhD by publications) was titled “Knowledge generation processes and the role of the case study method in the field of psychotherapy”. My work is interdisciplinary, positioned at the intersection of psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, clinical practice, philosophy of science and epistemology (you can read more about my work here).
PhD journey is a somewhat insular, odd experience. People outside academia seem to be impressed by the title of this qualification; people inside academia generally see it as a pre-requisite for a tenure position (and, as such, having a PhD becomes a requirement rather than an achievement); and most people (both in and outside academia) seem to not know much about what is really involved in acquiring a PhD. I, for one, cannot give an exact response of what this experience entails besides some broad formulae that seem applicable to most institutions and students. And yet, there is something beyond the academic component in the construction of a PhD, which I experienced and felt during my journey.
A PhD research degree is inherently individual, unique – it depends on the host institution (and even the host country – for example, in the UK, PhD viva or defence only consists of the PhD candidate, internal and external examiners, with no other attendees, whereas countries like Germany and Switzerland encourage the attendance of just about anyone who might be interested in seeing the PhD candidate sweat in front of an expert panel, including family members), the host department (with its own set of micro-politics and research circumstances), the student (the topic, the format, the method… all of that has to be decided usually in the first year, even though that seems to be highly unfeasible and incredibly stressful, coupled with the balancing of personal life, finances and future ambitions), and the supervisor(s) (in academia, they seem to “break” or “make” the student).
Regardless, it does seem that there is a unifying experience – phenomenon or culture even, perhaps – of “doing a PhD” or “becoming a PhD“. With the culmination of social media and digital platforms like Facebook, Twitter and Reddit, the PhD culture, ripe in its ambition, stress, misery, procrastination, and continuous pressure, has come to a full bloom. Meme groups like “High impact PhD memes” and “High impact memes for PhD fiends” (not to be confused) on Facebook have amassed 239,000 and 65,000 users, respectively. In these groups, PhD students and graduates from all over the world post images depicting aspects of PhD life and experiences that are typically humorous in nature, but also highly satirical, and, at times, cheerfully self-deprecating:
These and similar memes point to a common experience (or even, symptom – although this might be my psychoanalytic background speaking) of the PhD journey, namely, impostor syndrome. Simply put, impostor syndrome refers to a feeling and/or belief that one is not as competent as they are perceived. Skills, talents and accomplishments are internalised as false or fraudulent, and there is a persistent fear of being exposed as a pretend-academic. Although impostor syndrome is considered to occur in normal human interactions, in the past few years it has become almost exclusively associated with academia and, in particular, PhD research. In fact, the reported experience of impostor syndrome has become so common that not feeling like an impostor during one’s PhD became an odd phenomenon in itself (this is something akin to a meta-impostor-syndrome, a monstrosity otherwise known as not feeling worthy to feel like an impostor, i.e., really being the impostor).
Impostor syndrome
This long-winded introduction does serve a purpose and role in my own PhD journey. Before I started my PhD, I did my BA in Philosophy and Literature (which was really more of a random pick on UCAS than anything – although I knew I wanted to study something between psychology and philosophy), and my MA in Psychoanalytic Studies. Both felt like exploratory life journeys: I came from a different country (Lithuania) and had to re-learn how to arrange my sentences without sounding like a Thesaurus (actual feedback from a Teaching Assistant in my BA) real fast, and I also had to jump across several disciplines to get from philosophy to psychoanalysis (both sides, depending on whom you converse with or read, either love or hate one another). Beyond the academic aspects of these two degrees, though, I also made and lost friends, met my now-fiancée, juggled some pretty tricky financial situations (I had a part-time job as an office assistant during my MA, which made me very fond of the US version of The Office in later years), and lived in at least 5 houses/flats (some of them featuring more charming-I-will-try-to-bankrupt-you letting agencies than others). Academia was important, but not necessarily the most focal part of my life.
Starting a PhD immediately felt different, well before I even embarked on a PhD. I had to first apply internally, within my department, and then apply for a scholarship, without which I would have not been able to do a PhD. I remember sitting at a Christmas party with colleagues from work and reading a heart-wrenching email about my unsuitability for the only then available scholarship for PhD students in my department. I was told that, as an EU citizen, I was not able to apply for this funding. I choked down incoming tears and started intensely thinking about how I can manage remaining in some worthwhile academic position and earn a living, while appearing somewhat cheerful at the Christmas get-together. Fast forward to another Christmas gathering, this time with some academic colleagues and students from other courses, and having a conversation with one particular, then also MA, student, who expressed that, “Without a PhD, you’re not an academic. You’re just a student.” This struck me as an odd and patronising statement, one upon which I reflected on several occasions during my research journey.
Some days later, the scholarship people (who are almost as mysterious as the PhD journey in itself) got back to me to say that their earlier communications were, in fact, erroneous, and that I could, indeed, apply for a scholarship. This, of course, meant that I had less time than originally planned, so I embarked on a very healthy only-writing-for-my-PhD-and-doing-nothing-else two-week journey. I had about dozen people from several departments poking around my application and tweaking it. Finally, I have sent my application, held my breath and tried to do as well as I could for the remainder of my MA, only to hear some months later that I did not get it. I remember seeing the email, forwarding it to my supervisors (“thank you for all the support, unfortunately…”), shutting the laptop and curling into a ball. Only to receive the same email 20 minutes later to discover that I did, in fact, get the scholarship and will, indeed, be a PhD student for the next three years. My happiness was, of course, twisted with thoughts like, ‘Is this just a system error?’ and ‘I’m lucky but what if I don’t actually deserve this?’
This pattern has remained representative of my (as well as some of my colleagues’) PhD journey: intense highs and lows, moments of great achievement and great sadness, feeling on top of schedule and feeling stretched across a million tasks. You are never fully ‘actualised’ as a PhD student; you are always in waiting for your supervisory committee to make a decision on your progress; for a paper to be accepted (or, let’s face it, usually, rejected or, on a better day, accepted with major-major revisions); and, ultimately, for your signature to turn from a “candidate” to a “PhD”. Thus, PhD is a transitional identity, one that marks your life as ‘academic-centred’. But, despite having a clear beginning, it often has a murky ending – what with the COVID-19 pandemic impacting research involving any human participants (and, let’s face it, any kind of research is difficult at times of sickness, death, poverty, and social isolation – the pandemic has only intensified this), and the PhD viva/defence decisions not always being quite straightforward (I have had colleagues in the UK who had minor-major revisions or major-minor revisions. Yes, both at the same time.). So, when do we end being PhD students, not only technically but psychologically, especially considering the earlier discourse of impostor syndrome and not feeling worthy of being here in the first place?
I have passed my PhD defence in Psychoanalytic Studies earlier this May (2021) with no corrections, which has been a shocking but absolutely heart-warming result. I did not expect, after 3.5 years of effectively basing my life on addressing corrections, that this would be possible. I do still find it difficult to move past my transitional PhD identity, and not just because of all the challenges experienced, but also due to all the positive events that my PhD has brought me. Given the feedback on my Twitter post, I will summarise some of these positive (albeit challenging to navigate) PhD aspects in a list, in hopes that it might help a prospective PhD researcher:
PhD Supervisors. I mentioned this PhD element as “making” or “breaking” a PhD student. My supervisors have been very involved and supportive of my research endeavours. Most importantly, my supervisors challenged me and raised important questions about the future of my work beyond the PhD – it made me consider my PhD as a beginning rather than an end-goal. I would recommend having more than one supervisor, especially if your work is interdisciplinary (this is also excellent for future research contributions). It is also important to ensure that your prospective supervisor will, in fact, have time to supervise you (unfortunately, we are all short on time in academia – and you will need to have a significant amount of support and guidance in your PhD). Equally, make sure your PhD supervisor(s) is someone who you can talk to in a transparent manner about wider circumstances that might impact your PhD: your finances, personal life, mental health experiences are not separate from your PhD – they are part of your research journey.
Research outputs. Although this aspect may vary across disciplines and fields, speaking from a psy-science (encompassing broader fields of psychology but also psychotherapy and psychoanalysis specifically) perspective, research outputs (presentations, conferences, workshops, published research articles) are essential. Though it may seem stressful to do a PhD and publish at the same time, publishing from (or even beyond) your PhD will give you a leg to stand on during your PhD defence: your work has already been peer-reviewed and read by experts, and you have managed to get through them. This means you will manage to get through your PhD defence, too! Not to mention, a higher amount of publications will give you a great advantage in post-PhD job hunting.
Rejection may not (should not!) be the final response. This pertains to publications, scholarships and jobs. I recall that one of my (now published) solo-publications was rejected by the same journal four times in a row, but (and this is crucial) with an encouragement to resubmit. I would be lying if I said that I didn’t experience a breakdown at some point of the four-saga-revisions, but it felt amazing to have my paper published and improved on the basis of useful feedback. Similarly, during the pandemic and at the end of my PhD, I began scouting for jobs relatively early and experienced a high amount of rejections post-interviews. This is an incredibly common experience in academia (given the intensity of the job marked and the high amount of qualified applicants); however, I think that rejection is something that is still not discussed as explicitly as it should be (one breath-taking exception is Dr Siri Leknes’ Annotated CV, which includes transparent reflections of some of the unspoken challenges in high-ranking lectureship and postdoc positions). This contributes to further academic insularity and impostor syndrome, based on unrealistic expectations of “X found a tenure job while still doing a PhD, but I keep getting rejected – what is wrong with me?”. The reality is that X likely applied, and was rejected, few times in a row from a variety of institutions before landing this job. The key is perseverance but also honesty with yourself: if you feel sad, burned out, and anxious, it’s normal to feel like this after an important job rejection and to take some time to process this experience.
Burnout. A dreaded experience but likely inevitable, given that, as PhD students, we take on almost every opportunity to teach or collaborate on research projects. For a large portion of my full-time PhD, I had two or three part-time jobs on the side. I did, at some points, work evenings, but I made it my point to never work nights, and still managed to spend the majority of evenings throughout the week with my partner. (In fact, my PhD journey is also a great gaming journey –I probably escaped to video games just as much as I did when I was a teenager!) It’s important to develop this kind of frame in order to keep the work/life balance; otherwise, academia simmers through every corner of your life (not a great experience). There is no magic trick for this: scheduling in advance, spending time organising work (I promise that’s not the same as procrastinating), and having a to do list (I use an app called ToDoist) helps. There is, though, an alarming trend amongst academics and PhD researchers that, in order to be successful, one has to work unreasonably late hours (I have even heard that, in order to pass a PhD, one has to ‘spend a night in the PhD office’). In my view, this is not conducive to a healthy work pattern, and is, actually, not a realistic portrayal of productive work. PhD is great because it has flexible work hours – you do not have to come into the office at 9am and leave at 7pm to do work. Manage your expectations and plan ahead (and try not to compare your work pattern with others’ – everyone has a different work rhythm).
A holding environment. I cannot stress how significant this aspect is during a PhD. It’s important to have a good support system, but equally, this will be different for each PhD candidate. I was lucky to have two very supportive families, a caring and loving partner (who has also experienced the joys and troubles of doing a PhD, which helps enormously), and the most adorable cat that we adopted just the beginning of my PhD journey, Zuko. Your support system will be even more important if your department is somewhat isolated or if you do not have a strong collegial environment at the host institution. A PhD in general can feel quite solitary: we work on niche subjects, often publish with collaborators in similar networks, and, as mentioned previously, tend to repress the difficulties of an academic lifestyle. I would wholeheartedly recommend talking to people, telling them about your research, explaining why it makes you passionate. You’d be surprised how many would genuinely find this facet of life interesting and worthwhile, even if, at times, we don’t think so about our own work (or again, find it fraudulent, lurking in imposturous shadows).
I’m aware that these are only a few aspects of the PhD journey, and there are many more complex socio-economic dimensions that can change one’s PhD experience quite drastically. I hope, however, that my (admittedly, likely erratic) reflections contribute to a more transparent and realistic dialogue about “doing a PhD” and “being a PhD student”, and combatting impostor feelings and burnout.
For all my fellow PhD students: onwards! You will get through this beautifully.
If you have any particular queries or responses (or just want to connect), please feel free to leave a comment below or email me at g.kaluzeviciute@derby.ac.uk.
This article has been peer-reviewed and accepted by Zuko on 30/05/2021
30th May 2021
One response to “Reflections: what does it feel to “do a PhD”?”
Reflections 2: the journey from PhD studentship to lectureship (there and back again) – Greta Kaluzeviciute
Oct 2, 2022 at 3:31 pm
[…] little over a year ago, I wrote a blog post reflecting on my PhD journey and processing its final moments. Since then, I did a post-doc at […]
| 16,792 |
2 What percentage of people ages 18 or older reported that they drank alcohol at some point in their lifetime?
4 What percentage of teens have alcohol?
5 What is the average number of alcoholic drinks per week?
6 Does drinking every night mean alcoholic?
7 How much alcohol is considered a drink?
8 Should drinking age be lowered?
9 What are the statistics on underage drinking in America?
10 Is it common for high school students to drink alcohol?
11 What’s the percentage of people who drink alcohol a year?
What percentage of adults in the US consume alcohol at least once in their lives?
Prevalence of Drinking: According to the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 85.6 percent of people ages 18 and older reported that they drank alcohol at some point in their lifetime,1 69.5 percent reported that they drank in the past year,2 and 54.9 percent (59.1 percent of men in this age group and …
What percentage of people ages 18 or older reported that they drank alcohol at some point in their lifetime?
Overall Alcohol Use Of the people surveyed, 80.2 percent reported that they had consumed alcohol at some time during their lifetime, and 64.8 percent said they had consumed some alcohol in the past 12 months.
What percent of adults drink alcohol every day?
Key findings In 2018, two-thirds (66.3%) of adults aged 18 and over consumed alcohol in the past year. Among adults aged 18 and over, 5.1% engaged in heavy drinking (consumption of an average of more than 14 alcoholic drinks per week for men or more than 7 drinks per week for women in the past year).
Binge drinking is most common among younger adults aged 18–34 years, but more than half of the total binge drinks are consumed by those aged 35 and older.
What percentage of teens have alcohol?
In 2019, about 24.6 percent of 14- to 15-year-olds reported having at least 1 drink. In 2019, 7.0 million young people ages 12 to 20 reported that they drank alcohol beyond “just a few sips” in the past month.
What percentage of high schoolers drink alcohol?
29.8% of High School Students Drank in Past 30 Days The national Youth Risk Behavior Survey concluded that within the past 30 days of the survey taking place, 29.8 percent of high school students surveyed reported they had at least one alcoholic drink.
What is the average number of alcoholic drinks per week?
The national average was 17 per week. The Centers for Disease Control defines heavy drinking as 14 drinks per week for men and seven per week for women. A standard drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of win or 1.5 ounces of liquor.
Does drinking every night mean alcoholic?
“While there are a number of variables, typically having a drink every night does not necessarily equate to alcohol use disorder, but it can increase the risk of developing alcohol-related health problems,” Lawrence Weinstein, MD, Chief Medical Officer at American Addiction Centers tells WebMD Connect to Care.
What percentage of adults drink alcohol?
In 2018, two-thirds of adults aged 18 and over consumed alcohol in the past year. In 2018, 5.1% of adults engaged in heavy drinking in the past year, 15.5% engaged in moderate drinking, 45.7% engaged in light drinking, and 33.7% did not consume alcohol (Figure 1).
How much alcohol is considered a drink?
In the United States, one “standard” drink (or one alcoholic drink equivalent) contains roughly 14 grams of pure alcohol, which is found in: 12 ounces of regular beer, which is usually about 5% alcohol. 5 ounces of wine, which is typically about 12% alcohol. 1.5 ounces of distilled spirits, which is about 40% alcohol.
Should drinking age be lowered?
Lowering the drinking age would also reduce the number of alcohol-related accidents among underage drinkers. Many underage drinkers will not seek medical attention, no matter how severe injuries may be, because they fear the legal consequences of their actions.
What percentage of 9th grade boys are involved in drinking?
36.3 % is the answer.
What are the statistics on underage drinking in America?
Underage Drinking Statistics Many young people drink alcohol In 2019, about 24.6 percent of 14- to 15-year-olds reported having at least 1 drink. 1 In 2019, 7.0 million young people ages 12 to 20 reported that they drank alcohol beyond “just a few sips” in the past month. 2
Is it common for high school students to drink alcohol?
National surveys make it clear that alcohol drinking among youth is both widespread and harmful. Surveys provide data not only on the numbers of middle and high school students who drink but also on how they drink.
How many high school seniors have tried drugs?
By the time they are seniors, in fact, more than 60 percent of high school students will have tried alcohol, and nearly half will have taken an illegal drug. While daily use of drugs and alcohol among teens is much lower, dabbling with drug use can have long-term consequences.
What’s the percentage of people who drink alcohol a year?
The 2018 National Health Interview Survey indicates rates of current, regular users of alcohol, which is defined by having at least 12 drinks in a person’s lifetime and at least 12 drinks in the past year. The following percentages indicate current, regular users of alcohol among different racial groups: 8 8% of White Americans.
Share this post
Previous article
Is it better to drink Gatorade or water?
Next article
How many roller coaster accidents happen annually?
Is miscarriage naturally painful?
Which wavelengths absorb the most light?
Is Jane still a popular name?
What happens when a solid as it turns into a liquid?
What qualifies you as a Vermont resident?
What are the 2 factors affect momentum?
What is WB in Tom and Jerry?
How many babies did Elizabeth of York have?
Copyright © All rights reserved.
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept All”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent.
Manage consent
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
Duration
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics 11 months This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional 11 months The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary 11 months This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others 11 months This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance 11 months This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy 11 months The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
| 9,125 |
The Assistant Vice President is a newly elevated position from a director role given the level of responsibility for the strategic direction, mission, and oversight of Career Services. This position will oversee all aspects of career operations and advising, from direct student advising and coaching to alumni and employer relations. This position is essential to foster student success through career development and employment opportunities for Loyola undergraduate and graduate students. The elevation of this role will have a direct impact on student, faculty, and employer engagement, and serves as an integral part of the institution’s student success priority.
Direct and manage university career services as it assists all student, alumni, faculty, and employer clients in the development of career education and discernment, career readiness and management, and pursuit of employment opportunities commensurate with formal academic pursuits. Continually expand the client/user base and scope of services to ensure provision of the widest array of services possible to the broadest mix of academic and corporate clients.
Serves as the primary liaison between the university, its students and alumni, and potential employers on a state, regional, national, and international scale.
Serves as a member of the Student Success Leadership Team alongside the Assistant Vice President for Student Academic Services and the Associate Vice President for Student Success.
Responsible for fiscal planning and management for career services, including all operations and staffing matters.
In collaboration with the Employer Relations Team, develops new contacts with external organizations for the purpose of expanding employment opportunities for students and alumni.
Reviews and supervises the on-campus recruitment and interviewing processes along with the Employer relations Team
Coordinates and supervises staff professional development activities and training, to include travel for professional development workshops, seminars, and conferences.
Closely coordinates communication with deans, department chairs, and other faculty to
Constantly monitors, analyzes, and evaluates current scope of services offered through career services and plans, implements, and directs new programs under the supervision of the Associate Vice President of Student Success.
Serves in a leadership role in various professional organizations including, but not limited to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) and those regional affiliates which provide broad opportunities for job development activities.
Supervises five member leadership team and administrative support staff.
Leads large portfolio of career professionals
Manages career advising, business career services, pre-health advising, and employer relations and communications.
Oversees day-to-day operations of the Career Services to ensure services focus effectively on current and recent students.
Provides leadership and articulates the vision and mission for Career Services. Fosters a positive team dynamic among staff in the unit, focused on student success.
Collaborates with colleagues in academic affairs;
Fosters the use of technology as a professional differentiator.
Builds and expands partnerships with alumni and employers.
Responsible for fiscal planning and oversight of the annual operating budget.
Develops and implements annual strategic plans, policies, procedures and protocols.
Represents Career Services on University committees relevant to employment, academic support services and initiatives.
Expands post-graduation opportunities for students through partnering with potential employers, service organizations and graduate schools.
Advises and advocates for the development of university-wide policies, procedures, systems, and tools that support successful.
preparation for employment and transition into post-graduation experiences. Participates in all phases from idea generation to implementation, evaluation and result reporting.
Publishes an annual report with outcomes data on post-graduation outcomes.
Performs related duties as required.
Experience with career services, applications, information technologies and databases.
Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.
Master’s degree or equivalent; or at least 10 + years related experience and/or training, with experience demonstrating success with career outcomes in a college setting.
Ability to work effectively with students in a holistic manner with an enthusiasm for providing student-centered services in the Ignatian tradition.
Ability to foster partnerships with employers and campus partners.
Ability to work with University leadership across units negotiating competing demands.
Strong track record of supporting career development for students who are historically under-represented in higher education.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Demonstrated ability to effectively collaborate and communicate with employers, faculty, staff, students and families.
Demonstrated experience and ability to hire, train, evaluate and supervise professional staff.
Experience developing and implementing student programming at the post-secondary level.
A commitment to academic excellence, social justice, service, values-based leadership, global awareness, and diversity.
Ability to embrace, promote and articulate the University’s Jesuit Catholic identity.
Resistance Capital – demonstrated ability and comfort in challenging conventional methods that may be problematic.
Linguistic Capital – demonstrated ability to bridge varied, competing goals and viewpoints.
Navigational Capital – demonstrated ability to transform barriers into bridges; help under-represented talent navigate workplace barriers.
Thorough understanding of and commitment to the goals and responsibilities of the centralized career services concept.
Nationwide professional contacts in both the university and employment sectors.
Demonstrated public relations/marketing abilities to be used on behalf of the university as a whole and career services specifically.
| 6,568 |
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. Clicking on a link and making a purchase will result in me receiving a small percentage of the sale at no additional cost to you.
My 5-year-old is doing kindergarten, and has been since August, since she was 4 when I started, we wrapped up some of the unfinished preschool curriculum. After a long winter break, we’re looking forward to getting back to it. Here’s what we’re using right now (note: we don’t do all subjects all days, and the total time sitting – not counting science experiments, reading books together, art projects, music stuff, etc. is only about an hour and a half. The majority of her days are still spent playing.):
We were using The Ordinary Parent’s Guide to Teaching Reading by Jessie Wise and Sara Buffington. However, the curriculum really didn’t suit my gal, and I’d been really curious about what All About Reading had to offer. So, I switched it up. We’re now using level 1, and we love it. It’s hands-on, has reinforcing activities, and most importantly really works well with my gal’s learning style. They just came out with a color version, and it’s gorgeous. I’ll be talking more about that next week.
For writing, we’re doing a lot of tracing of words and letters, but we’re also reinforcing proper letter formation using Zaner-Bloser Handwriting Grade K. We do a page or two each day. She loves this.
I started with MCP Spelling Workout A before I switched to All About Reading. I’m on the fence about continuing with it or changing to All About Spelling Level 1 once we finish All About Reading Level 1 and begin Level 2 as recommended.
For literature, I’m working on making sure she’s familiar with classics and contemporary picture books. We’re using a variety of resources as well as the book, fairy tales, poetry, nursery rhymes, etc. lists from What Your Kindergartener Needs to Know.
We’re using Singapore Math Essential Math Kindergarten A and B. We’re about halfway through book B, so we’ll be starting the “first grade” book probably in March if we keep moving at the pace she’s setting. She loves math.
Science is kind of a hodge-podge, like literature. It’s partially interest-based, partially driven by what’s in What Your Kindergartener Needs to Know, and partially based on various science kits we have and fun experiment ideas I come across that fit the season/interests. I just got 180 Days of Science to add to the mix just to make sure we’re hitting all the standards and building a solid foundation for 1st grade. Science is another favorite subject, so we also read a lot of books on topics and watch YouTube videos.
We’re reading a variety of picture books about historical events and biographies of great figures. We also read selections from What Your Kindergartener Needs to Know and discuss what we read. For geography, we’re using DK Geography, Kindergarten. We also have a daily calendar we do, and we’re using My Book of Easy Telling Time. We also do a lot of talking about community roles and safety and other things.
We do a lot of art projects, drawing, coloring, etc. around here. She also has a class she does with her grandparents and loves.
Music:
We’re taking a break from violin at the moment. We listen to a variety of music, and I point out the different styles and talk about instruments and famous musicians.
We’re doing Girl Scouts this year, and a dance class. She wants to do a running group for kids this spring. We also go to the local zoo’s classes as we can.
Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window)
Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window)
Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
Click to share on Skype (Opens in new window)
Related
Published by Ronda Bowen
Hello there, and welcome to my page! I have been working as a full-time freelance writer and editor since 2008 when I decided that while I rather enjoyed philosophy, the Ph.D. program I was in was not a good fit for my life goals. Since then, I have published many papers and articles, started two blogs, worked as a senior editor for a magazine, served on the board of a start-up non-profit organization, and walked across fire. I strongly believe that it is important to work to make the world a better place – one project at a time. I’ve worked with Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build program to construct living quarters for those in need, written content for Stonewall Alliance, and edited the newsletter for my local natural foods cooperative. One of the blogs I founded, Activism My Way is dedicated to helping people get involved with causes they feel passionate about. Although my academic background is in philosophy and social and political theory, my heart has always been in writing fiction and poetry. I have a novel in progress, and I am working on putting together a collection of short stories to share with readers. I also worked as part of a creative team on a project with a hip hop artist that involved world-building and creating an amazing back story to a concept album. I have worked with several authors to edit their novels (as well as dissertations, children’s books, journal articles, and non-fiction projects). Non-fiction topics I have written about include pop culture and philosophy, project management, business startups and management, insurance, technology, and much more. I also have created web content for a wide variety of clients (ranging from gas station owners to hotels to lawyers), and I’ve had an opportunity to interview some amazing people (Michele May, Kevin Sorbo, Barbara Taylor Bradford, and Mark Victor Hansen to name only a few). Needless to say, I love what I do. I enjoy photography, and my subjects these days are usually my children as well as food, beverages, craft projects, and other such things for my blog, Wining Wife™. My favorite subjects are landscapes, nature (particularly clouds, flowers, and trees), and architecture. View all posts by Ronda Bowen
| 6,575 |
There are two different strains of the herpes virus, HSV-1 and HSV-2. Either strain can present as genital or oral herpes, depending on the points of contact/transmission. Herpes typically presents with symptoms, often called flare ups. While it is incurable, it can be managed with medication.
Redness at the site of the infection
A feeling of burning, or tingling at the infection site
Itching in or around the genitals
Red bumps or blisters that progress into ulcers and begin to secrete fluid
Occasional internal ulcers that cause painful urination
If outbreaks continue, the blisters will turn into painful sores
Most sores heal within 1-2 weeks
Not Sure What You Need?
How is Herpes Contracted?
HSV 1 and 2 are easily contracted, and can be transmitted whether open sores are present or not. Transmission while there are no sores present happens during a time called “asymptomatic shedding.” While HSV 1 may appear more frequently in cases of oral herpes, it can be spread to the genitals. Similarly, as HSV 2 is more commonly found in cases of genital herpes, it is possible to spread to someone’s mouth area during oral sex. It is also possible to be infected with both strains of the virus simultaneously.
There are two strains of the herpes virus, HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 typically causes herpes infections around the mouth, while HSV-2 tends to cause breakouts in the genital area. However, both HSV viruses have been known to cause infection in both locations. The test used to detect herpes infection, the Herpes IgG, detects both strains of the HSV virus and can differentiate between the two. This means your test results will contain two separate results to confirm a positive or negative for each herpes strain. It is recommended that you wait 8 weeks following a potential exposure before you perform this test. If you’ve had a potential exposure within the last two months and are concerned, you would need the HSV IgM test. There is no way to distinguish where the infection lies should you test positive for one or both of the strains of the herpes simplex virus without the presence of confirmed herpes sores.
There is currently no cure for herpes, but medications can be used to treat and reduce the symptoms. These medications are antivirals, and have been shown to keep symptoms at bay so they do not worsen. They also can decrease the number of outbreaks, how many sores are happening/present during outbreaks, and the length of time the sores are present. Taking the medication can decrease the chance of spreading herpes to others, but precaution should still be taken if infected. While herpes may be incurable, it is important to note that herpes causes no significant health consequences.
How is Herpes Contracted?
HSV 1 and 2 are easily contracted, and can be transmitted whether open sores are present or not. Transmission while there are no sores present happens during a time called “asymptomatic shedding.” While HSV 1 may appear more frequently in cases of oral herpes, it can be spread to the genitals. Similarly, as HSV 2 is more commonly found in cases of genital herpes, it is possible to spread to someone’s mouth area during oral sex. It is also possible to be infected with both strains of the virus simultaneously.
There are two strains of the herpes virus, HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 typically causes herpes infections around the mouth, while HSV-2 tends to cause breakouts in the genital area. However, both HSV viruses have been known to cause infection in both locations. The test used to detect herpes infection, the Herpes IgG, detects both strains of the HSV virus and can differentiate between the two. This means your test results will contain two separate results to confirm a positive or negative for each herpes strain. It is recommended that you wait 8 weeks following a potential exposure before you perform this test. If you’ve had a potential exposure within the last two months and are concerned, you would need the HSV IgM test. There is no way to distinguish where the infection lies should you test positive for one or both of the strains of the herpes simplex virus without the presence of confirmed herpes sores.
There is currently no cure for herpes, but medications can be used to treat and reduce the symptoms. These medications are antivirals, and have been shown to keep symptoms at bay so they do not worsen. They also can decrease the number of outbreaks, how many sores are happening/present during outbreaks, and the length of time the sores are present. Taking the medication can decrease the chance of spreading herpes to others, but precaution should still be taken if infected. While herpes may be incurable, it is important to note that herpes causes no significant health consequences.
We recommend the full 8 panel test
Since people can go years without having a herpes outbreak, it is possible that you are not showing any symptoms for this disease. As a result, we recommend that you opt to test for all of the asymptomatic STIs in one single visit to a testing facility. This way, you can enjoy total peace-of-mind with the certainty that you are 100% healthy.
| 5,365 |
Posted byrtbosshardt April 19, 2021 May 5, 2021 117 Comments on No longer a Fellow- why I am leaving the American College of Surgeons
After 28 years as a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, I am done. Although it breaks my heart, I will no longer be Richard Bosshardt, MD, FACS. If you want to know why, read on.
When I was in my surgical training, I first noted that some of the attending surgeons had the initials, FACS after the MD behind their name. I learned that this stood for Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (ACS). The ACS represents all surgical specialties.
Fellowship in the College was more than just a matter of applying, paying a fee, and getting a certificate. To be considered, you had to have an unrestricted medical license and be board-certified in a surgical specialty by a member board of the American Board of Medical Specialties. You had to have been in a full-time practice in one location for at least one year. You had to have unrestricted hospital privileges and no reportable actions against you. You had to have references from two Fellows of the College. Once you were elected to Fellowship, there was a ceremony at the annual meeting of the ACS, very much like a graduation ceremony, in full cap and gown, at which new Fellows pledged to always adhere to, and uphold, the highest standards of surgical practice and always place the care of their patients first and foremost. (Please continue to page 2- see below)
Related
Posted byrtbosshardt April 19, 2021 May 5, 2021 Posted inUncategorized
Published by rtbosshardt
I am a plastic surgeon, in practice for 30 years, with varied interests. First and foremost is writing. I love to observe people, who are endlessly fascinating. I have interests in health and wellness, our environment, modern culture, history, and general medical matters. I was "born to run" and love long distance running. I have a Christian worldview which infuses everything I do. I hope this blog will be interesting, entertaining, informative, and, perhaps, even a little controversial. If I can get one person to delve more deeply into something I have said, I will have been successful. View more posts
Previous Post Previous post:
I Am a Surgeon
Next Post Next post:
What is wrong with Critical Race Theory
Ellen Wilcox says:
April 19, 2021 at 1:20 am
Yes, yes, please go on! I know the background and credentials necessary, but why are you bowing out? I cannot possibly imagine that YOU do not adhere strictly to the “rules of engagement.” (Pardon my référence to a military term, but you know what I mean!). So, why? You post leaves me hanging………🤔
Sent from my iPhone
April 19, 2021 at 1:42 am
Ellen, You may have overlooked the second page of the post. It lays out why I am quitting the ACS. Rick
April 25, 2021 at 3:29 pm
Hi Rick. Just so you know you come across as completely oblivious (cognitive dissonance) and so frankly you did the right thing by everyone by moving on. Good riddance
April 25, 2021 at 9:43 pm
I would enjoy a more reasoned discussion but you seem to dismiss me outright as oblivious without saying why you think so.
LikeLiked by 1 person
David Dukes says:
April 26, 2021 at 2:57 pm
Respectfully, You did the right thing leaving. I disagree with your reasoning for leaving but everyone is entitled to their own opinions right or wrong. It does baffle me that your idea of “excellence” is dry and outdated, thus why I think you made a good choice of leaving. You can read books about CRT, talk to “a single black colleague” but until you can stand in front of a room and voice your opinions (through research or other means) as I am sure you have done you cannot get a sense of where your opinions may right or wrong. Just because I have one white colleague who agrees with BLM, clearly does not show the full picture. Just because I know a police officer who disagrees with recent incidents obviously doesn’t echo the sentiments across the country (hence blue lives matter, police officers participating at insurrection etc) . So instead of making a blog post wanting civil discussion step up to the podium or zoom call and share your opinions for the masses to see. It is not anyone job in these comments to educate you on forward progression is excellence or why it is needed for a level playing field. I however believe if you strongly believe against something and choose to not be a part of it, it’s your humanly right because if you don’t stand for anything you’ll fall for anything. However it is disappointing to see someone in a profession dedicated to the care of HUMANs make a comment we don’t need more black male surgeons, need more excellent surgeons as if statistics hasn’t already showed how wrong that statement. Statement also implies if the college is becoming more diverse that excellence is somewhat being sacrificed. Like I said before I agree with your choice to move on, because I know as a Black Male who have been in numerous PWI environments, called all the names, mistaken identity list goes on, I CHOOSE to leave and stay away from those who challenge my credentials or intelligence. Why? Because I know my competence and skill level doesn’t have to put with BS anymore.
April 26, 2021 at 6:15 pm
David, Thank you for your thoughtful reply. I feel I must clear up one possible misconception. My statement regarding needing more black surgeons versus excellent surgeons who happen to be black was an attempt, perhaps badly worded, to indicate that I am against quotas in something like surgery. All surgeons should meet the same criteria regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, or other means of identity and this is where I have issues with the ACS, which seems to be looking at diversity and inclusion as desirable in and of themselves. I want my surgeon to be excellently trained and competent, and to practice according to the principles spelled out in the Fellowship pledge. I don’t care if they are white, black, brown, yellow, or some other color. The best mastectomy surgeon in my community is a black female and, if my wife needed surgery for breast cancer, she is who I would have my wife go to. Sincerely, Rick
April 27, 2021 at 3:10 am
so where is the other page? I can’t find it here as it’s nowhere on this post. I’ll go look further maybe but reading comments shows others face similar prob. Certainly agree that race or how anyone looks should not be relevant to what job you do n certainly not to whether you get a job or not, we used to all agree on this, it was nasty racist BS to judge folks on skin color or claim that different races think differently. Diversity is far more than skin deep or what genitalia u happen to have, we have amazing complex minds and many different life experiences that effect our thoughts far more than skin color. I’m so sick of fools with vested interests, academics, politicians n the media pushing this nasty racist BS as if it were an accepted fact. Some are gaining wealth, power n influence through pushing these lies n BS but it will be the weak n innocent who suffer most in the long run. Fools riot n loot then wonder why the businesses have closed, why there’s no jobs or local investment where there had been before. Some young fools may get a free tv or clothing but this is at the expense of others jobs n livelihoods. Then the rich n powerful tell them it’s due to “systemic racism” that must be fought by more burning n looting. They make BS comments about unaccountable racist cops killing innocent people for no reason but anyone honestly looking at it knows it’s BS so most just don’t look n repeat the lie n even believe it to some extent. Thugs use the lie to excuse their behavior, the media n politicians make criminals caught doing crime and resisting arrest into national heroes, making them or their relatives rich but not as rich as the race baiters, media n politicians. Where does all this nasty racist BS end? I can’t help wondering if this is how Nazi Germany convinced enough folks to go along with their racist BS or the suffering folks in the Soviet Union to go along with the show trials n propaganda that they knew was BS while trying to get by in a society that could turn on them personally at any time for no real reason or logic
April 27, 2021 at 11:05 am
Adam, So sorry. The way the blog is set up, you have to scroll down a bit to find the place to click for page 2. I tried to remedy that by adding a small instruction at the end of page 1. If you know how to fix this, I would love to know. I can’t seem to figure it out. Thank you for commenting. I hope you get to page 2. It explains much.
Giovanna says:
April 27, 2021 at 10:04 pm
Agree with you Rick
April 27, 2021 at 11:53 pm
Thank you.
Jamie Wood says:
April 19, 2021 at 2:34 am
This is very sad to see this “movement” or whatever it’s called, creeping into every area of our society. Microaggression! Well Doctor, I’m proud of you to take this hard stand and hope many of your fellow colleagues will follow your . God Bless
April 28, 2021 at 12:46 am
Thank you.
Jack Coughlin says:
April 20, 2021 at 11:39 am
If you this the ACS is bad, you should the PC virtue signaling crxp coming from the American Pediatric Surgery Association (APSA) not to mention the paean to the BLM by my alma mater, Holy Cross
April 25, 2021 at 7:36 pm
I hope you do leave. My husband and I (both fellowship trained surgeons) will join in your absence and support an organization that is working to be more inclusive and racially diverse. I never wanted to join prior but now knowing racists like you are leaving, I’m happy to join.
April 26, 2021 at 4:25 am
The paragraph he cites describes him perfectly
Charles M says:
April 27, 2021 at 2:02 am
Elaine, you’re supporting an explicitly racist movement yourself that puts Whites and Asians at a disadvantage and advocates for present and future discrimination as a remedy for historical discrimination (which itself is usually exaggerated or misrepresented). Diversity should not be valued or promoted, only allowed and accepted as one possible outcome given equal opportunity. Underrepresentation is not inherently bad and it may even be natural in some instances as a result of biological differences (e.g. gender gap in STEM). Equity puts race front and center, destroys the ideal of merit, and discriminates against Whites and males. I would not feel safe being treated by your or your husband because of your racist, toxic, and pseudoscientific views. Please make your views public so people can avoid you two.
April 27, 2021 at 10:52 am
Charles, You make some excellent points that I did not and you expressed them very well. Those who have commented critically seem to have completely missed the point of my blog post or their ideology does not permit them to see any validity to what I have said. I have no problem with someone disagreeing with me. I take issue when they ignore the topic, substitute their own interpretation of what I have said and argue that, or simply attack me personally. They always seem to come from the progressive left, which has brought us cancel culture, shouting down invited speakers on college campus, in-your-face rants to persons who simply happen to cross their path, riots in the guise of protests, microaggressions to mean anything that makes them uncomfortable or goes against their beliefs, and safe spaces. This culture of confrontation needs to change but how do you speak to people who dismiss you outright if you are a privilege, supremacist, white racist male?
April 28, 2021 at 12:53 am
If the ACS continues on its current course, you will be welcome. When the ACS collapses under the weight of its progressive direction, don’t forget to close the door on your way out.
Sorry, to disabuse you, but I have not committed to leaving yet. I am actually having some conversations with ACS leaders and have found agreement with some of my concerns. You would do better to engage in civil discussion rather than just labeling someone like me a racist. By the way, I’m not. Believe what you will. I try to be civil, but when people defame me based on nothing more than a blog post, I get a little hot. I will try very hard to refrain from to calling you names. We are adults and this is not some elementary school yard disagreement with name calling as the mode of communication.
April 28, 2021 at 10:06 pm
Elaine, You are ideologically possessed and low informed.
You’re the reason the word racism is nearing a point where it’ll be meaningless.
You care nothing about diversity. You want people who look different but think the same.
You don’t know how to present an argument let alone a counter argument. You don’t want discourse. You want power. And control. You’re a tyrant if handed the keys. You’re what you claim to hate. And I would be terrible to have you or your husband operate on anyone I know.
You’re so immature and unscientific that you believe equal outcomes is possible and worse a good idea.
You’re the poison ruining this country for immigrants and those who fought for civil rights.
May 10, 2021 at 10:18 am
May 10, 2021 at 10:39 am
Hello Celia, My definition is simple: anyone who judges another based on the color of their skin. You can get into other things, such as ethnic background, but at its heart, there it is. When we judge others by something as superficial as melanin content of their skin, where they come from, who their parents were, what socio-economic level they come from, it is wrong. I was raised by a Brazilian mother and American father. I was taught from the first that we are God’s children, equal in the eyes of our creator, and of infinite worth. Anything that contradicts that is wrong. Critical Race Theory, which is what I find myself now embroiled in fighting is the antithesis of this. It wants to divide us according to color and merely substitutes one form of racism for another. Check out FAIR, http://www.fairforall.org. I joined and you might consider it as well. Racism from any direction is evil. Best, Rick
April 20, 2021 at 2:19 pm
I am torn as well. The social justice movement in the College is regretful. However, the ACS does advocacy that benefits surgeons. How do you reconcile?
April 21, 2021 at 1:18 am
Excellent question. I finally received some official acknowledgement from the ACS regarding my letter and action. I dp not want to simply abandon the ACS, but I expressed graves concerns about the direction of our College over 4 months and, before that, in 2019 in a commentary following the Olga M. Jonasson Lecture by Dr. Joan Reede in March 2019. I was met with silence. This step I have taken has generated more response so far than anything else. It seems to be true that you have to take dramatic action to be heard. I truly do not want to leave the ACS but I cannot stomach the progressive lunacy it seems to be embracing. Rick
Wave says:
April 25, 2021 at 1:53 am
“I was met with silence. This step I have taken has generated more response so far than anything else. It seems to be true that you have to take dramatic action to be heard”
LOL. I was wondering why you didn’t just leave silently. Like why dramatically announce you’re leaving?… ah, the things we do for attention. The attention shifted from you and people like you to others, and of course we can’t have any of that.
April 25, 2021 at 2:10 am
I did not leave “silently” as you suggest, for two reasons. One was that I wanted to share with my non-medical friends and associates what is going on in my profession. This is something they would have no way of knowing about since it does not warrant coverage in the media, despite being a great shift in the values and positions of the ACS. The second is that I would like to know how many others out there feel as I do. I fail to understand your criticism. It appears to be focused on me and not on the issue I raise. If you feel this is without merit, then say so. Don’t just attack me.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Fred says:
April 25, 2021 at 10:52 am
What was the response of the ACS? Can you share?
April 26, 2021 at 12:34 am
Some of it I cannot except to say that it came from a high level. The response did not address my concerns in any meaningful way. It was a personal answer that explained why I had not heard from anyone. I am continuing to seek dialogue with the ACS on this issue.
April 28, 2021 at 12:56 am
I believe you try to work within the system. My threat to leave, which isn’t much of a threat, when you think about it, was borne of frustration with getting no acknowledgement to my letter to the ACS leadership about my concerns regarding the direction of the ACS. I have since spoken to some of them and found them to be reasonable people. I will continue to engage and see where this goes. If the ACS shows signs of backing out of the progressive rabbit hole it seems bent on going down, I will consider staying.
April 25, 2021 at 1:06 am
Good lord. You’re talking about a profession where more than 20% of med school graduates believe Black people have a higher threshold of pain, Black women are way more likely to die in childbirth, and most medications/medical procedures/etc are all calibrated to white men during tests. Get over yourself and your standards of excellence.
LikeLiked by 1 person
April 25, 2021 at 1:15 am
Which Jeff Klein might you be? You sound like a physician, and the only physician JK I know of personally is a dermatologist. I am not speaking about medical students and, if I were, I would like to know where you get your 20% from. I am speaking about trained surgeons and if excellence is an irrelevant, archaic measure then something is seriously amiss with our profession. I find the accusatory tone mystifying. Just what did I say that was so objectionable? If you want to disagree with me, disagree, but try to refrain from personal attacks.
LikeLiked by 1 person
April 25, 2021 at 2:03 am
I’m not a physician, but I work in social determinants of health, and I can tell you that racism is one of them, and in total, non-physical health elements account for 55% of health outcomes, so if completely write off CRT because Fox News and three Black Academics question whether white people need to re-examine the role of racism in shaping all of American life, then you’re not striving for execellence. When the life span of Black Americans matches that of White Americans, then you can take your foot off the gas, but don’t quit because you don’t like your privilege being challenged.
This what I meant by dropping the “excellence” talk. You should be doubling down on ensuring excellence in being anti-racist for the sake of Black patients, not joining throngs of whiney white dudes upset about finding out their history teachers left out a bunch of stuff.
April 25, 2021 at 2:20 am
I accept that racism is a problem. I reject the notion promoted by CRT and organizations, such as Black Lives Matter, that everying should be viewed through a racist lens. You missed the point of my post entirely. The ACS is a professional organization which represents surgeons, all surgeons regardless of specialty, race, gender, or ethnicity. Anyone with the desire and intelligence to be a surgeon, and willing to work incredibly hard to become one, is welcome. CRT race theory, which the ACS is clearly embracing with its recommendation to add anti-racism, a construct of CRT, to its values, is a bankrupt, controversial ideology which is not accepted by many non-whites. It has no place in our College. There are better ways to deal with racial disparities in medicine. I will leave it at that.
April 25, 2021 at 4:59 pm
Would love to hear your ideas on dealing with the problem of racism in medicine. If teaching it isn’t enough or shouldn’t be a starting point, how do we deal and solve it?
April 25, 2021 at 2:59 am
Just because it challenges you, doesn’t make it “bankrupt,” and pointing to “many non-whites” without naming someone other than, who? McWhorter? D’Souza? Sowell? Carson? A Black evangelical you follow? doesn’t QED your argument. Next you’ll tell me there are could prominent Flat Earthers, or some studies linking Vaccines to autism, or that the science community doesn’t totally agree on climate change.
April 26, 2021 at 10:55 am
You forgot Shelby Steele, Morgan Freeman, Denzel Washington among others who decry CRT. Your objection to those individuals is, what? They aren’t black enough? They are too educated? Have you even looked into CRT to find out what it seeks to accomplish? Your false equivalencies by bringing up flat earthers (I don’t think they deserve captialization), anti-vaxxers, and climate change (huh?) is ludicrous and laughable. Thanks for the chuckle. There haven’t been too many of those in these comments.
LikeLiked by 1 person
April 28, 2021 at 10:58 pm
Hahah, name dropping Sowell after presenting unequal numbers as proof of racism?! Hahah.
Mr. Klein. You were trolling right? It was a joke? Said with a wink? You really are a funny guy! Hahaha!
April 25, 2021 at 1:33 pm
There’s a lot to wade through here. Let’s start with your relationship with the ACS. I found it fascinating that you admitted that you have not really been involved with the ACS. . . at least not until your casual linkage with them (literally in name only) became a nice foil for your diatribe. Second, and far more importantly, your letter demonstrates a profound lack of understanding about systemic racism. Do you not see the assumptions you are making in the statement, “Success in obtaining a residency position in any surgical specialty depends more on one’s performance in medical school, recommendations from one’s professors. . .” Your assumption that everyone is starting from a level playing field, with the same obstacles in front of them, has been shown to be wrong time and again. Your letter also seems to poorly grasp some basic facts. The line, “. . .it is disingenuous to claim that our residencies and our College lack diversity or inclusiveness,” is demonstrably false. Would you please provide the percent of FACS faculty who are BIPOC, then? If it does not track with the representation in the broader population (note: it does not), would you care to posit why?
You said in one comment that “There are better ways to deal with racial disparities in medicine.” OK. Go on. We are all listening. Please provide your evidence-based approaches that are preferable.
And, yes, I am a physician with numerous leadership roles in numerous organizations. (I am actually very involved in all of them.) As such, I am glad to see you giving up your FACS – you clearly do not do the designation any honor.
April 25, 2021 at 9:57 pm
Susan, Please see my general reply which addresses several of your critiques. I have no idea what the percentage of BIPOC surgeons is in the ACS. Do you? I take exception with, among other things, the idea that all institutions need to reflect the same racial, ethnic, gender ratios as the society at large. This is a quota system and quotas that do not take into account more than identity are wrong, period. If we go down that road, let’s jump on the NFL, the NBA, Golf, the corporate world, education, and others who do not reflect the culture at large. In surgery, qualifications are straightforward and measurable. Competence and excellence should be the goals, not some arbitrary number. We do not need more black surgeons. We need more excellent surgeons and some may happen to be black. I am not saying that we have achieved full racial parity. Far from it. That is an ongoing process, but we have made great strides in my lifetime. My mother remembers when she arrived from Brazil and saw segregation for the first time. She was appalled and would purposefully drink from the “black only” water fountains and use the “black only” public facilities. My parents taught me every person is deserving of equal consideration. That was the culture I was raised in. My post was about the ACS and its progressive leanings and adoption of CRT. Others, like you have jumped on me trying to expand this to include the entire issue of racism in society. That is unfair. You may disagree with what I wrote but do not attribute to me more than this. You do not know me.
Physician Somewhere says:
May 2, 2021 at 2:56 am
Rick, I could become angry and frustrated with your views. I could bring up how contradicting your arguments sound at times. However, all I feel is pitty and sadnnes that people like you (including those who agree with you in these posts) will never grow or learn anything beyond the close-minded, stubborn worldview you were brought up with. Likely, you will never understand the arguments of equity, diversity and human rights and you will spend all your energy defending your worldview which will continue to isolate you from people that don’t think in these narrow ways. That’s a very sad life. Eventually you may become so angry about everything that questions your views but yet claim to follow Jesus (who was not judgemental and who was not known for valuing merit or excellence, but instead humanity). I know many people like you who are stuck in their mindset and can’t relax, can’t enjoy life and can’t truly experience the love of God because they have created this very legalistic way of thinking; instead of welcoming others and acknowledging the horrible effect this way of thinking has impacted different people groups, especially people of color. I really hope there will be hope for you to experience true freedom and you will one day feel free from the burden you carry daily to defend your current worldview which requires anger, pride, self-righteousness and tons of energy.
May 2, 2021 at 11:39 am
Dear PS, Are you really a physician? I have to ask because you come across as not very educated, and you clearly have no clue as to what I wrote. I know of some who have actually opened up a new email address/identity just so they could post anonymously. I will take your identity and post at face value in order to respond Thank you for your concern. You need not lose any sleep over this. I am fine, my relationship with God is fine, as is my relationship with my fellow man, of all races, ethnicities, etc. excluding, perhaps, a few like you. I would suggest you read my blog again, this time with an open mind. Perhaps you should do a little research into Critical Race Theory also, as you obviously have no clue about this. I will bite: tell me what is contradictory about my post. I will be delighted to hear from you.
Bruce says:
April 27, 2021 at 5:37 am
When your post-nominals usage is longer than your name, you’re trying too hard, Susan
April 27, 2021 at 11:13 am
Brian J Dixon MD says:
April 25, 2021 at 1:44 pm
The most thorough way to understand racism in medicine is to talk with Black physicians.
If you don’t know any, send me an email; the culture shift we’re in is very necessary for those of us who live it every single day.
April 25, 2021 at 9:45 pm
I did, and spent an hour on the phone with a black surgical colleague, who has been a friend for nearly forty years, to get his opinion. Suffice it to say that we agreed way more than we disagreed.
April 25, 2021 at 11:01 pm
Speaking to one black physician who validates your opinion means nothing. I’m sure if you get group of them together you would get a wide range of opinions and perspectives. That’s where you miss the point. The “my one black friend” excuse doesn’t suffice for the experience of the majority of black people in medicine.
April 26, 2021 at 12:26 am
You do not know me or who I spoke to. How do you know what the experience of the majority of black people in medicine is? I did not say it fully validates my position, but it does indicate that someone with the life experience to provide a credible opinion does not find what I have said to be racist, as some claim. If my opinion means nothing to you, then I guess there is nothing more to be said. I have a lot of black colleagues in my community. My wife’s primary is a black female physician. The internist I most respect and would happily go to is a female, black physician married to a caucasian.You are surprisingly judgemental.
April 25, 2021 at 4:10 pm
This is not a diatribe about lost excellence, it is a racist diatribe that is seeped in white cultural supremacy and privilege. The ACS should disassociate from people who lack a growth mindset and an intention to learn and serve our people. You should aim higher and aim for excellence at all levels.
April 25, 2021 at 9:40 pm
Please tell me how this is post is racist. My objection is to the inclusion of CRT and progressive ideology. I stand by that. It is difficult to engage in a reasoned, civil discussion when all one sees is my whiteness, supposed supremacy, and privilege. You don’t know me, yet presume to label me. If we can dispense with the labels, we can have a conversation. Otherwise, not.
April 25, 2021 at 10:51 pm
This post is racist and the fact that you don’t see it shows how uneducated you are about race and racism. If you aren’t fighting for change, you’re complacent and adding to the problem. The fact that you want to become uninvolved in a group that is advocating for diversity shows that you are anti diversity. Whether you knew this about yourself or not, your idea of excellence seems to not include people of color. I think it’s time you learn about yourself.
April 26, 2021 at 12:13 am
You are a perfect example of why civil discourse is not possible with some. You call my post racist but refuse to tell how why you think so. You ascribe the worst possible motive to my post and accuse me of being anti-diversity because I disagree with CRT. I have said nothing about being against diversity. You make simplistic, inaccurate summation of what I have said. You make further accusation, none of which you provide any reasoning for that I do not wish to include people of color. I would suggest the same to you that you do to me.
April 26, 2021 at 12:48 am
This commentator is projecting and virtue signaling, a classic example of fervent zealotry.
April 26, 2021 at 1:01 am
I think you may be on to something. Most of these who have commented negatively about my blog have chosen to label me, accused me of opinions I did not voice, interpreting what I have said in the worst possible way, or used this brief blog post to judge everything from my intelligence to my Christian faith. None has attempted to initiate a civil reasoned discussion. These are standard progressive playbook tactics: shut people down by accusing them, raising straw man arguments, refusing to address what they have said directly, and/or labeling them in ways, e.g. you are racist, that will delegitimize anything they say.
April 28, 2021 at 9:57 pm
What a privilege you have Dr. Sabha! To be able to publicly cast collective guilt without repercussions!
Tell me. What color do you use when casting collective guilt on say…Chinese people? And what is it that they are collectively blamed for in your bigoted world? Or are we to believe you only do this with people of white skin?
How do you refer to a white Bosnian Muslim? Or a white skinned Mexican? You do know they exist don’t you?
Or do you think “they” are all the same? Just one giant identity group that you can explain and dismiss via skin color.
May 10, 2021 at 10:31 am
“racist diatribe that is seeped in white cultural supremacy and privilege” is a compilation of trendy talking points which effectively demean and dismiss the argument without actually making an argument.
May 10, 2021 at 10:48 am
Hey Celia, Not sure what this comment is saying. Could you clarify please? Some have called my post a “racist diatribe”. Do you agree with that? Rick
April 25, 2021 at 4:38 pm
Looking at the image associated with this blog displays the need for increased diversity and inclusion to be taught and encouraged. Do you feel that people of color are less qualified, less able to meet the standards of surgery and fellowship of ACS? I am unsure as to why promoting diversity and non-racism would equate to negating quality and excellence within the professions of surgery. Your blog addresses your upset about the progressive direction of the affiliation/membership. Does it actually negate all of the amazing requirements to join? Does it no longer require participation, dues, excellence and recommendations? Do any of these progressive views and direction affect the professional organization in other ways besides embracing qualified POC into the group and ensure that people open their minds? It sounds like this organization is challenging the views of some of the most well educated and skilled to open their minds. You might want to attempt to approach this from an apolitical stance. Rather approach this from a stance of the diverse patient base you hopefully have treated over the years. This will advance the profession to include studies that are not white male based by having different perspectives. Advancements improve the entireity of healthcare. Inclusion of others is not an attack on you or the professions. Inclusion does not promote your disclusion.
April 25, 2021 at 9:37 pm
I thought the image showed a great deal of diversity. I could have spent more time looked for something even more diverse, but honestly did not think I would be criticized on my choice of images. I have nothing against diversity and inclusion. I have a lot of concerns and disagreement with Critical Race Theory as espoused by its promoters. According to Thomas Sowell, CRT is not trying to end racism, just place it under new management. I agree with that.
April 25, 2021 at 5:13 pm
I am reading and re-reading your comments regarding excellence and I am wondering what about having a more diverse college, aggressively fighting racism, and creating a safe space for those that have been trampled on in society on their way to the ACS threatens “excellence”? Are you saying excellence is having a white majority and disregarding the plight of your colleagues? Does this mindset also apply to your non-white patients (if you have any)? Why are you so adamant about not lending a hand in this fight? If you do believe racism exists in the world (which you claim you do) then why not do your part to dismantle it in the spaces you operate in? Believing you are not racist is one thing, but saying the college isn’t as well (because that is what you are claiming by resisting these “unnecessary” changes) is absurd. You are not a mind reader and you certainly are not a good detector of “subtle” racist behavior. Additionally, you have clearly shown that you do not love your neighbor as yourself and you do not love as Christ loves you which goes against your claim that you are a Christian. If you did, you would sit in the discomfort you feel and try and figure out why your skin is crawling at the thought of your college acknowledging the threat/impact of racism and creating a more harmonious environment for EVERY member. Side note: It makes me sad to think that you have created/influenced other physicians (your daughter and others you have trained) with this mindset.
April 26, 2021 at 12:47 am
Wow! I am not even sure how to respond. You do not know me beyond this post yet presume to judge me and even trash me as a Christian. I will leave your post up and am tempted to just ignore it, but I will respond. Like several others, you took a post on a specific objection and have turned it into an overarching position on racism. Go back and re-read it, a bit more carefully this time. I have voiced concern about the adoption of CRT by the ACS and I stand by that position. Anti-racism is a construct of CRT and, rather than have us eliminate racism, just wants to move it to new management. It is truly repellent to me that you would even suggest that I somehow treat non-white patients differently. This goes against everything I believe and am about. Shame on you.
April 26, 2021 at 9:05 pm
Sir, you have not answered my question regarding how the movement against racism in the field of surgery is in opposition to excellence. I do not and can not judge you. I don’t have the power to do that. I am simply telling you that this article you have posted paints you in an unloving light. Can you also please elaborate on which parts of CRT the college has adopted and how that has threatened the standards necessary to enter and maintain good standing in the organization? Also, can you touch on what you think is the “right” move to eliminate racism? Repelled as you may be the writings on the wall. When it comes to areas in which you feel threatened and uncomfortable you strike and claw at those who you think are endangering your way of life, even though your way may have been subtly supporting the oppression of “others”. I bet you are a nice person, I bet you say hello, please, and thank you. I bet you take on patients without any noticeable biases. I am not attacking you or your stance. You can believe anything you want, but I wish you would do it in the privacy of your mind where your words and actions are not attempting to derail the progress the ACS and other organizations are trying to make. If you could answer my questions the next time you respond that would be great. Also, please give examples to support your claims on what CRT is doing to the ACS. p.s I am not ashamed.
April 27, 2021 at 12:08 am
It is your interpretation that my article paints me in “an unloving light.” I disagree. I am honestly befuddled by your comment. On the one hand I “strike and claw” at those who I think are endangering my way of life. What? Where did I indicate this? On the other hand, you bet I am a “nice person” who says hello, please, and thank you. Please make up your mind. You say you are not attacking my stance and then ask me to keep my thoughts to myself. I think I will leave it at that. CRT is bad news, period. Disagree with me if you will.
April 25, 2021 at 6:13 pm
So…you just leave- this cherished institution you love?? All because it is trying so hard to address issues of racism? Is this not a noble cause? IF you agree that racism is a scourge to be rooted out- why would you not at least support the college in it’s attempts? If you support the cause but disagree with the methods- that’s one thing but somehow, I am now left with the only conclusion that you are a denier of systemic racism within this institution and quite possibly within the health care system itself.
dbtdiaries says:
April 25, 2021 at 6:53 pm
You even included the quote from the February bulletin and *still* haven’t been able to self reflect. They couldn’t have explained it more plainly yet you still don’t seem to understand the part of the Dunning Krueger curve that you fall upon
April 25, 2021 at 9:33 pm
I cannot respond to every comment individually so this general response will have to suffice. I appreciate all who have read my blog and taken the time to comment even, believe it or not, those who disagree with me, some of you quite vehemently. One of the secrets of the success of our country is the protection of free speech, even speech we find uncomfortable or even hateful. If we lose that protection, we lose our country, possibly forever.
I will appreciate those who seem to agree with me but I want to address those who clearly do not. The comments can be broken down into several issues, which I will attempt to respond to.
Some have asked if I am trying to get attention for attention’s sake, i.e. am I a narcissist who seeks the spotlight? Believe what you will, but the answer is no. I saw the ACS taking a direction that I felt was divisive and with which I disagreed and spoke up. My first effort to do so privately proved futile so I chose to seek a more public venue. I also wanted to engage other surgeons.
Someone asked why I have not been more engaged with the ACS until now. I have had to choose where to engage in the past. My discretionary time is limited. I have a busy practice and a family and interests outside of medicine. I have been involved locally, as a delegate to the Florida Medical Association; as treasurer, vice-president, and, finally, president of my local medical society; as Chief of Surgery at my hospital; as a board member on various community boards including that of two organizations that serve the indigent in my community. On top of that, I wrote a weekly medical column for the Orlando Sentinel on medical matters for over 25 years. My plate was full, so I had to make choices of where to devote my time and energy.
Some have described my blog post as a diatribe. I have read and re-read my blog with this in mind. I disagree. You are free to disagree with me.
Some have called me clueless, ignorant, or, more to the point, racist. The implications are clear. I have no right to comment because I am not of color. If I question in any way the manner in which the ACS is dealing with racism, it means I am, de facto, racist. This is one of the tenets of Critical Race Theory to which I take exception. I am not allowed to speak on the issue without the racist card being thrown at me. If that makes you feel better, feel free. I know what and who I am. One thing I did before I wrote this response was to have an hour-long conversation with a surgical colleague who is black. We have been friends for over forty years. He came from a disadvantaged background. He is one of the most intelligent, reasonable, down-to-earth people I know and an excellent surgeon. I came away reassured that I am not totally off the mark in my concerns about the ACS.
I am concerned and dismayed at the direction of the ACS with respect to addressing the issue of racism within the College and in the society at large. I think embracing progressive ideology and CRT is the wrong way to approach this issue. I stand by that opinion.
Jeff Laser says:
April 25, 2021 at 10:51 pm
I have been a fellow for 20 years and completely agree with you. Even before the reasons you have mentioned, I was growing weary of the anti-gun propaganda that was appearing time and time again. The knee jerk attempts to cancel your choice on here are typical of the left and their demand for solidarity and mo dissent or discussion. My dues have been unpaid for 2 years now. Hopefully the ACS will reorient their focus to surgeon advocacy and education.
April 26, 2021 at 12:15 am
Jeff, You are a refreshing voice of affirmation in a sea of unfair, accusatory comments that choose to label me rather than discuss where we disagree. Be ready for the blowback. It is coming. Rick
April 25, 2021 at 10:57 pm
Question… how much time have you spent studying critical race theory? What resources are you using to develop your stance?
April 26, 2021 at 12:20 am
Linelle, I have read elements on CRT from its proponents, especially Ibram Kendi. I have read commentaries on CRT by such individuals as Thomas Sowell, Shelby Spencer, Candace Owens, and others. I daresay I have read more than most of my contemporaries. I could certainly read more, but I have a day job and other responsibilities. I have read enough to know that I disagree with its most basic premise, which is to view all of human history through the lens of racism. I also refuse to accept that all whites are racist simply because they are white. As Thomas Sowell put it, better than I could, CRT is not trying to eliminate racism, just put it under new management.
A disappointed colleague says:
April 25, 2021 at 11:26 pm
Where does “critical race theory” come up at all in any statement by the ACS? They are embracing anti-racism and promoting diversity, plain and simple; “love thy neighbor as thyself.” Being anti-racist is not political; it’s the right thing to do both as a human and as a Christian. People who aspire to be surgeons do not start out on a level playing field. Much of the trajectory of your life is determined by where you are born and who you are born to. For example, if you take two of the exact same person and raise one in a warm home with loving parents of means and that exact same person in a single parent home living in poverty, the outcome is radically different. Both have to work hard to achieve their goals, but one has significantly more disadvantages and thus a lower likelihood of achieving that goal.
Your sentiments seem to stem from the grand fear amongst many white folks that by 2040, the majority of Americans will be from minority backgrounds. This is a fact that is inevitable and you should be embracing it rather than distancing yourself from it since we are a country of immigrants and our diversity is our strength. Good riddance.
April 26, 2021 at 12:30 am
You need to do some reading on CRT. Anti-racism is a specific construct of CRT as espoused by Ibram Kendi. It is not enought to declare onself not racist. If you are white, you are too steeped in your endemic racism to know this and must deal with this by accepting “anti-racism”. CRT states everyone who is not non-white is racist, period. We have no right to opine and must be re-educated by the woke progressives to overcome our inherent bias. I refuse to accept this toxic, divisive ideology. It is just taking racism and turning it over to new management.
A disappointed colleague says:
April 26, 2021 at 1:59 am
I’ve never even heard of CRT. Anti-racist just means against racism. It’s that simple. No theory or anything behind it. Nobody said “everyone who is not non-white is racist, period.” No serious person believes that. Nobody ever said white people have “no right to opine.” Stop pretending to be a victim of the ACS promoting diversity and combating racism.
April 26, 2021 at 10:29 am
You need to do some reading before you express an opinion on something you yourself admit you know nothing about. You are plain wrong on every point you make. For the record, I have not claimed victimhood. My white, male privilege makes the victimizer, not the victim.
April 26, 2021 at 1:19 am
The level of projection by this commentator is absolutely amazing.
April 25, 2021 at 11:27 pm
It is simply amazing how many commentators come out of the woodwork to allege racism by the author without evidence. That is demonstrative of the CRT mindset, a Puritanical with hunt cloaked in an individual’s sense of moral superiority. What is interesting to note is the collapse of traditional religious belief in the US (as per Pew) and the rise of the Woke successor ideology, which is a betrayal of a enlightenment values and tradition.
April 26, 2021 at 12:33 am
I agree. CRT is antithetical to JudeoChristian values. I pits one race against another and promotes racism, just from another direction.
April 26, 2021 at 2:16 am
-all men are created equal
-separation of church and state
-religious tolerance
-representative government
April 25, 2021 at 11:28 pm
It is simply amazing how many commentators come out of the woodwork to allege racism by the author without evidence. That is demonstrative of the CRT mindset, a Puritanical with hunt cloaked in an individual’s sense of moral superiority. What is interesting to note is the collapse of traditional religious belief in the US (as per Pew) and the rise of the Woke successor ideology, which is a betrayal of a enlightenment values and tradition.
April 26, 2021 at 2:17 am
-all men are created equal
-separation of church and state
-religious tolerance
-representative government
April 26, 2021 at 1:42 pm
Honestly, I’m confused. You believe that racism exists but you’re against being “anti-racist” because it is a part of CRT, which is an ideology you disagree with. Yet if you believe racism is wrong, then you obviously believe in anti-racism. So what exactly is your point? Anti-racism did not just get born from critical race theory. It literally means what the words are saying, “to be against racism”. Just because the ACS has decided now they want to be against racism, all of a sudden they are promoting CRT? What sense does that make? If your only connection to “anti-racism” is the CRT, then you sir have a lot to learn. I don’t presume to know you but based on what you have written, it is very evident you do not know the struggles people of color have faced in medicine. The fact that you don’t even know the percentage of people of color who are surgeons or are a part of the ACS is very fitting. It speaks to a complete lack of awareness. Your bias and dislike of CRT, BLM and other groups that in your opinion “call every white person racist” has not even allowed you to acknowledge the ACTUAL problem that has been ongoing years before someone decided to make up the phrase “CRT”. I think it’s good you’re leaving. I’m not sure what you would contribute to help at this point anyway. All I can hope is that your biases don’t reflect how you treat your patients, medical students or residents. As a black physician, knowing you are chief of surgery, I cannot imagine how you would advocate for your black colleagues or residents if you can’t separate what is truly happening with people of color in medicine with your disagreement with CRT. I wish the best of luck to the students and residents who have to work with you.
April 26, 2021 at 5:18 pm
Agnes, I think you could have stopped with “I don’t presume to know you”, yet you go on to judge me inspite of this. Your comment is full of false assumptions and misinterpretation of what I wrote. I know what I wrote and you have taken this to extremes beyond anything I said or suggested. I will address one point and leave it at that. You are wrong regarding the term “anti-racism”. Words matter and the term anti-racism no longer means just to be against racism. It is a very specific term that all whites have to adopt because it is no longer enough for a white to say they are not racist. It is a very clear virtue signal to indicate that you are onboard with CRT ideology. If you doubt that, go look up the writing of Ibran Kendi, a vocal advocate for CRT. You may rest assured that my bias, as interpreted by you, does not enter into how I treat patients, students, or residents. I treat everyone as I would wish to be treated. I will add one more thing, since you brought up BLM, which I made no mention of. I wholeheartedly believe in the principle that black lives matter. I believe all lives matter, but I cannot say that because, according to extremists, it somehow diminishes blacks in some way. I do, however, repudiate the organization, Black Lives Matter. It is a Marxist, revolutionary group that seeks to take down society and rebuild it in some supposedly utopian mode. Its agenda is spelled out in its manifesto and is frightening. It is antithetical to the nuclear family, which is the bedrock of all civilization, including families of color. It lends no support to black families and what it has done for the cause of blacks in the US is anyone’s guess. Its leaders are not accountable to anyone. Their finances are suspect and not transparent.
April 26, 2021 at 5:34 pm
Sometimes the best way to deal with this scolds is with a bit of humor.
LikeLiked by 1 person
April 26, 2021 at 6:38 pm
I think I snorted coffee through my nose and may have popped a rib…………………
Joe says:
April 26, 2021 at 2:27 pm
I’m a surgeon of color. What these virtue signaling (largely white) ppl calling you a racist are themselves the ones who are bigoted. I, and others, don’t need the help of anyone. I don’t need to be patronized by “privileged whites” who pat me on the head and say “it’s ok we know you came from nothing – we will help you.” Surgery is a skill that is learned and can be technically observed. I am skilled at it. I also had to pass tests and get good grades on tests in college and medical school to get a general surgery residency I wanted. The tests aren’t racist (as much as privileged whites want you to believe). You are rewarded for not only working hard but also having the objective results that demonstrate your competence. Critical race theory is preposterous and is destroying the internal locus of control that we need our young ppl to have. It’s 2021 – yes racism still exists but it is absolutely NOT everywhere. And every time a person of color doesn’t get a promotion or the residency position they want is not bc of their race but maybe, just maybe, someone better got the job.
I’d like to ask all the people attacking Rick to take a step back and listen to how patronizing you sound. I don’t need or want your help
April 26, 2021 at 5:38 pm
Joe, Thank you for commenting. I have nothing to add to what you have said. You clearly get it in a way that my detractors do not. I appreciate the support from a fellow surgeon. I think you and my co-resident would find a lot in common. Sincerely, Rick
Charles M says:
April 27, 2021 at 2:44 am
I appreciate your bravery in speaking out against critical race theory and anti-racism. One of the most alarming passages from Kendi’s book was that the remedy to past discrimination is present discrimination, and the remedy of present discrimination is future discrimination against racial groups who form the so-called oppressor class. It’s an explicitly racist movement. I wish that you’d also acknowledge the danger of equity. Diversity that reflects the makeup of society should be seen only as an acceptable endpoint given equal opportunity. We must recognize that cultural differences may explain different career paths and outcomes between racial groups, and that biological differences may explain the same between men and women. There’s plenty of scientific evidence to back that up, even though woke scientists are now getting papers retracted for daring to publish an opposing viewpoint. Sorry for all the bad faith insults being tossed at you from supposedly educated colleagues.
April 27, 2021 at 10:55 am
Charles, That’s OK. I can take it. I am a big boy (do I daresay “boy”?). Thomas Sowell said it better than I ever could. To paraphrase his statement regarding Derrick Bell, the originator of CRT, Bell and CRT are not seeking to end racism. They are simply trying to put it under new management. I agree with that view. Rick
April 27, 2021 at 2:48 am
This post is scary, period. If myself or a loved one needs surgery, I don’t care if it sounds racist – I’d be more apt to demand a white surgeon for the simple reasoning they got the job without any dumbed down testing requirements for diversity sake. I feel our entire society in a few short years has found ourselves at the edge of a cliff.
April 27, 2021 at 11:03 am
Bart, One of my co-residents in general surgery has gone on to a very illustrious career as an academic surgeon, teaching young surgeons, heading residency programs, and even starting one. Of the three of us in my residency year, he was the brightest. He is black and comes from a ghetto background. He got out through an athletic scholarship. I would put myself under his knife without hesitation. Residents in training have to meet all the qualifications of education and experience demanded by our board to become board-certified surgeons regardless of gender, ethnicity, race, or any other identity. Each of us is charged with the personal responsibility to seek to become the most excellent surgeons that we can be. Not every surgeon is equally good but all should be at least competent. Your fears are unfounded. My friend cited numerous examples where patients expressed the same concern you have voiced and asked for a white surgeon. His response has always been, OK, let’s talk and I will see what I can do to find the right surgeon for you. He said that invariably, after 15-20 minutes of conversation the patient has said, “Doctor, I think I stick with you as my surgeon. ” That’s the way you make change.
April 27, 2021 at 4:51 am
Looks like you got piled on by the activist mob. Good job keeping your cool and good luck moving forward. We need more people willing to stand tall.
April 27, 2021 at 11:08 am
Chuck, Thank you. I am not done by a long shot. I can take the heat, especially when much of it comes from persons who have clearly made no effort to either read my blog post or try to understand it. They just react because it does not agree with their preconceived narrative. This makes meaningful dialogue impossible. How can you have a conversation when it begins with the other side calling you out as racist?
Doctor says:
April 28, 2021 at 12:12 am
Rick, if you find yourself constantly having to correct others’ interpretations of your rant, then at some point you need to look at yourself as a poor communicator. Progress only moves in one direction, and people of younger generations will one day look back at your opinions and wonder how a man who received so much education came so short. People who have experienced the active and passive benefits of privilege view equality as unfair; it’s time for the spotlight to shine on other folks. Thank you for your service, but the times, they are a-changing… and with it, the beliefs of society at large.
April 28, 2021 at 12:40 am
I would agree with you except that a large enough number of persons commenting seem to be getting what I am saying correctly, so I think the problem is more with the critics than with me. I think what I said was pretty clear. My post has been described as a diatribe by some and now, by you, as a rant. That is plain wrong. My blog does not come close to a diatribe or rant. Look up those words and re-read my blog. You are also wrong in saying that progress moves in one direction. It depends on your view of progress. With respect to CRT, I believe this is progress in the wrong direction and will continue to fight it. I am getting tired of hearing how privileged I am, as though I had nothing to do with my success. I know many blacks and other non-whites who would disagree quite vociferously with you. Since when is the supposed consensus always right? On CRT, there is no consensus, even among non-whites. Thanks for commenting.
April 28, 2021 at 10:46 pm
Doctor,
He has to correct others because like yourself, they are possessed and unable to think critically. His only failing is in thinking it’s worth addressing their projections.
You and the others who are repeating the doctrine, scripture and mantras, as made popular by Kendi and DiAngelo (although not invented by), are complete lunatics. Lame. Weak. Dumb. You have no opinions of your own.
You offer nothing but amusement to even the most moderately sane people. With a tinge of terror. Because like it or not you and yours are winning. You’re getting everything you demand.
April 28, 2021 at 1:21 am
Here is an excellent listing of resources for those who want to push back against the intolerance and racism espoused by DEI initiatives and by CRT in education.
https://www.persuasion.community/p/fighting-back-at-last
April 28, 2021 at 9:58 am
Wow! Great resource. I will disseminate this as far as possible. I have already been approached by someone from FAIR and will be talking more with them. They are a physician also. It is about time reasonable, liberal minded people push back against this insanity. Thank you!
April 28, 2021 at 2:30 am
Excellent , thank you. As a young surgeon who proudly achieved FACS last year, I too am deeply concerned by these increasingly liberal tendencies of the college at odds with their traditional values. Can you recommend any alternatives to the ACS or do you foresee any developing?
April 28, 2021 at 10:08 am
Matthew, I am new to this sort of thing. I have never been politically active beyond exercising my right to vote. My dismay at many trends in society has been growing for years and this clear move to the left by our College was the last straw. I am not aware of any like organization that could take the place of the ACS for surgeons beyond the various specialty societies. What drew me to the ACS was its comprehensive representation of all surgeons and the mission of promoting excellence in its members. That last has clearly changed into promoting DEI without concomitant emphasis on excellence and competence. I have received support in my stance from surgeons who are black or from other minority groups who feel as I do about CRT. I really do not wish to leave the ACS. I have finally been reached out to by the leadership of the College and, it appears, there are many in its ranks who feel as I do. The failure to respond to my initial, private effort to express my concerns was due to a confluence of factors, including personal medical issues, and this was explained to me. I have been invited to continue this dialogue with the head of membership, which I plan to do next week. Hang in there. There are many, like me, who are trying to get the ACS back on track to its primary mission: to support surgeons, all surgeons. And, congratulations on attaining Fellowship. Rick
April 28, 2021 at 4:17 pm
Just be aware you are in for a fight of your life. I wish you the best of luck. Stay strong.
April 28, 2021 at 4:32 pm
I will wade into the fray with a smile on my lips…………
April 28, 2021 at 3:47 pm
I think the responses here reveal that the ship has sailed on the ACS. It will become just as irrelevant as the AMA, which I believe has only a 12% membership of all practicing physicians (excluding medical students or residents). We can’t expect doctors to be unified in social issues anymore than the general public in this hyper partisan internet driven environment. Since you raised the question Dr. Bosshardt, perhaps it’s time to start an alternative college that are more aligned to the values of (the al least) 50% of fellows of the current ACS? All movements start out as small ideas…
April 28, 2021 at 4:30 pm
I left the AMA because of their abdication of their responsibility to represent physicians and patients in the passage of Obamacare. You may be right about the ACS. I have had conversations with several in the leadership which lead me to conclude that the ACS may step back from the brink of full blown progressive insanity. Time will tell. Meanwhile, I will watch and wait to see what happens for the remainder of 2021. My dues are paid up until then.
April 28, 2021 at 9:48 pm
Takes a lot of courage to speak out publicly. And you’re doing a fine job of dealing with the ideologues attacking you in these comments.
Hilarious is the Jeff Klein character asserting disparate outcomes as proof of racism. And in the next sentence name dropping Sowell in a dismissive way. The very person who’s work annihilates this moronic illogical way of identifying the cause of complex problems.
April 29, 2021 at 12:42 am
Anyone who dismisses Thomas Sowell has obviously never read or listened to him. Brilliant man and one of my favorites when I want to hear some common sense.
May 5, 2021 at 11:19 am
I just trashed a comment by someone named Michael, who apparently supports me, because it stooped to pure name-called and had nothing productive to say. I have no problem with disagreed, even strong disagreement. I only ask that commenters be civil and address the issue without resorting to personal attacks.
May 5, 2021 at 12:13 pm
Dr. Bosshardt, thanks for your article. You really opened my eyes; I haven’t been following the issue closely. Have been in practice since ‘91 and becoming a Fellow was one of my proudest days. Now, I’m disgusted and will not renew. We should be about excellence, period. Thanks again. Going Galt, too.
May 5, 2021 at 11:27 pm
Thank you. My intent was to publicize something that few people, even in the ACS, know anything about. The inability to understand that antiracism is de facto CRT, is a huge blind spot even among the regents and upper leadership of the College. I think they have been blindsided and lied to by younger, radical elements in the College. Those elements will, I fear, destroy a wonderful institution due to their venomous lunacy. The responses I have received from some other Fellows makes me shake my head in disbelief. Some of my biggest supporters have been surgeons of color who understand CRT and detest it. Rick
May 5, 2021 at 2:41 pm
Richard, I am sorry to say but the cause is lost. The best solution is for those who have similar views about the current state of the ACS is to leave, and start or join another organization (perhaps the NBPAS?)
May 5, 2021 at 11:22 pm
I am very sorry to hear that. It is a truism that for evil (to which I would add bad ideas and ideology) to triumph, all that is needed is for good men and women to do nothing. I guess we are reaping the whirlwind for focusing too much on our practices, patients, and families and expecting that our College would maintain some semblance of focus on the mission and not get sidetracked into political/ideological quagmires. I have spoken to some of the leadership and they sound like reasonable people who are also disturbed at the recent direction of the ACS. I have warned that if we do not change our direction, we (the ACS) could become as irrelevant as the AMA has become. Thanks for reading and commenting. Rick
May 7, 2021 at 4:57 pm
As a surgeon, I am concerned that FACS = excellence was an institution for all surgeons, and now you and a large contingent of other surgeons are seeking to strip that distinction of our collective recognition because of an ideological argument. I get that you think anti-racism is a wrong agenda item for the College. I strongly disagree for a number of reasons, but would absolutely be willing to debate what we each think is a “good direction.” The offense I think you’ve committed in broadcasting this strategy is that you have made a rallying cry to create a double standard for surgical distinction based on ideological values, rather than accept the unified distinction of an organization that tolerates the ideological conflicts within its membership. You are done trying to influence ACS to change its agenda. You’ve given up. The only successful endpoint of your argument is that a large contingent of surgeons like parka21 above joins you in leaving ACS to establish a different set of criteria for excellence. ACS and {new association} begin to represent distinct values of excellence, and a new double standard is born. Would you expect one group to have a more privileged membership than the other? Would you expect one group to be more surgically excellent than the other? Which surgeons’ association should the public trust more? Which should have more influence over public health policy? Which should establish the quality standards of clinical research and practice? You’re the leader of the movement, what’s your pitch to young excellent surgeons of color who are skeptical of your cause?
May 7, 2021 at 6:20 pm
I agree with the first half of your first sentence but disagree very much with the rest of it. Before you judge, educate yourself on Critical Race Theory and its necessary requirement to adopt “antiracism”. CRT does not allow anyone to claim they are not racist or are against racism; they have to accept the CRT-specific term “antiracism”. This is much more than just being against racism. It is accepting your personal racism and corporate guilt for all the persons you have oppressed whether by burning crosses on their lawn or microaggressions you were totally unaware of. You have to own your racism and accept that now it will be managed by the formerly oppressed. It is Marxist to the core. The leadership of ACS is clueless based on my conversations with them. Why has this even come up? I believe it because there is a vocal, radical element in the ACS, made up largely of younger surgeons who do not think critically, and older leaders who abet and enable their dangerous ideology. If there is any doubt that the antiracism stance of the ACS is equivalent to adopting CRT, the fact that Ibram Kendi, one of the most radical proponents of CRT has been invited to address the College, should put this to rest. I believe this is an existential threat to the ACS, not mention America as a whole. If you don’t believe me, do a little research and read what others of color think of CRT. I recommend Thomas Sowell, Eli Steele, John McWhorter, Candace Owens among others. My pitch to new, young surgeons would be to think critically and do your due diligence before buying in to CRT and the ACS adoption of this toxic ideology. It has no place in the ACS. If we have racism issues, and I dispute the systemic racism of the ACS, there are much better ways to deal with it than adopting CRT.
May 7, 2021 at 7:12 pm
You sidestepped the point. Can you respond about how your example of abandoning FACS creates a double standard of excellence? Moreover, can you do it without the commentary about what you believe is ideologically Marxist, clueless, radical, or dangerous?
Again, in repudiating FACS, you demonstrate that you would rather invent a competing set of rules for what is excellent based on your own ideological values than accept a standard of excellence recognized by surgeons who are in ideological conflict. Is that the example we should all follow? If so, prepare for an eternity of fractal divisions of your new club.
Also, how can one whose strategy is to withdraw from participation expect to be taken seriously when claiming to know better ways to participate?
Thank you for publishing these comments.
May 7, 2021 at 9:19 pm
Side-stepped how? What point? If the point is that I am abandoning the ACS in order to start an alternate organization to promote excellence, that is entirely wrong. My only reason for considering leaving such a storied organization that I have been a part of for over two decades is that they are on a path that I will not follow. My premise is simple and no one has made even a vague attempt to refute it: antiracism is de facto CRT and has no place in the ACS. It is that simple. It speaks to the level of toxicity and divisiveness that I, and many others, including many of color, ascribe to CRT and its offshoot, antiracism. Words matter. If the ACS chooses to adopt antiracism into its values, then its values no longer align with mine. It is truly that simple. So far, the adoption process is still unfolding. If it slows or reverses itself, I will probably remain to continue to work against it from inside. If the ACS goes full bore progressive “woke”, then I have no interest in seeing an honored society go down in CRT flames.
Jason says:
June 2, 2021 at 4:44 am
Shallow racist leftist mob: 0
Rick for the win!
Tom says:
June 26, 2021 at 1:22 am
Bravo. I applaud you for taking a stand, and agree that these trends are quite disturbing, especially the push to force CRT on those in training, the exclusion of any voice that dissents, and (most especially) the push for equity in healthcare (as opposed to equality, which is based on meritocracy and not an equality of outcomes).
I’m sure that the public would be mortified if you actually explained that “equity” literally means that their surgeon performing their operation did not achieve their position based on their qualifications and being the best at what they do, but instead was placed in that position simply because of a need to have enough representation of external factors (gender, race, sexual preference), and may have been unqualified compared to other candidates that were not matched to that specialty (in spite of being more qualified).
Ross says:
May 19, 2022 at 11:37 pm
Sir, I just happened to come across your blog today. I, too, am a plastic surgeon. After being a fellow of the ACS since 2001 & having similar experiences as you have, I also rescinded my membership in 2019. I had corresponded with the Executive Director at that time, Dr. David Hoyt & he was firm on what the agenda was. I ended up returning my certificate and no response from the College thereafter.
May 20, 2022 at 1:01 am
Ross, I would love to hear more. I have been denied access to the Communities by the Editor-in-Chief for using disrespectful language and violating the rules he recently made up to separate diverisity discussions from the clinical sections. How can I contact you. My email is rtbosshardt@aol.com. Rick
Ross says:
May 20, 2022 at 2:26 am
Pleasantly surprised that you responded, Rick. I figured that the blog was closed since the last post was June 2021. You may reach me at 91515@comcast.net.
Am still a member of the ASPS but don’t know for how much longer.
Feel free to email as I would rather discuss this privately than to air my grievances on the internet lest I be “cancelled.”
Cancel reply
Email (required) (Address never made public)
Name (required)
Connecting to %s
Notify me of new comments via email.
Δ
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
Archives Select Month January 2022 December 2021 September 2021 May 2021 April 2021 March 2021 February 2021 January 2021 December 2020 October 2020 September 2020 August 2020 July 2020 May 2020 April 2020 March 2020 January 2020 September 2019 August 2019
| 77,386 |
Billy asks the unseen Muse why it has been so absent lately, despite writers’ ability to give it all its power. He wonders if its squandered its gifts on an unworthy poem. He begs it to return and inspire him with words about his beloved, the Muse’s equally powerful audience and subject. Billy says his beloved’s face is lineless, but if he is wrong, the poem should be a satire of aging, and begs the Muse to immortalize its subject before time can tear down the beauty there.
“Base subjects” often refer to vulgar themes or generally unworthy topics. But since the word base was often used to mean ‘base born, of humble social status’, there is inevitably a suggestion that the beloved is of high birth, and worthy of a poet’s dedication, instead of which the speaker has debased himself and given his attentions to creatures not worthy to be noticed.
Egyptian Columns at entrance of Brooklyn Public Library, Brooklyn
The Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) is the public library system of the borough of Brooklyn in New York City. It is the fifth largest public library system in the United States. Like the two other public library systems in New York City, it is an independent nonprofit organization that is funded by the New York City and State governments, the federal government, and private donors. In Fiscal Year 2009, Brooklyn Public Library had the highest program attendance of any public library system in the United States. The library currently promotes itself as Bklyn Public Library.
The Central Library of the Brooklyn Public Library, located at Flatbush Avenue and Eastern Parkway on Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn, New York City, contains over a million cataloged books, magazines, and multimedia materials. Each year, over one million people visit the library.[1]The facility, landmarked in 1997, boasts the state-of-the art S. Stevan Dweck Center for Contemporary Culture, a 189-seat auditorium that opened in 2007 and hosts lectures, readings, musical performances, and other events for people of all ages. The library’s plaza, renovated during the construction of the Dweck Center, hosts concerts throughout the summer and has become a favorite outdoor destination for free wireless internet access.
The Shelby White and Leon Levy Information Commons opened in January, 2013.[2] The space offers an integrated venue for individual work, public classes, private events, and meetings.[2]
The Central Library’s local history division, The Brooklyn Collection, holds over a million individual items including photographs, maps, manuscripts, Brooklyn Dodgers memorabilia and other ephemeral items.
Ground was broken for a Brooklyn central library on Prospect Park Plaza (Grand Army Plaza) in 1912. The design of the original architect Raymond Almirall called for a domed, four-story Beaux Arts building, similar in style to the nearby Brooklyn Museum. Escalating costs and political in-fighting helped slow construction throughout the decade. World War I and the Great Depression ensured that Almirall’s building, whose Flatbush Avenue wing had been completed by 1929, would never be built.
In the 1930s, the architects Githens and Keally were commissioned to redesign the building, eliminating all the expensive ornamentation and the entire fourth floor. After much public and critical praise for the comparatively inexpensive Art Deco structure, construction recommenced in 1938. Almirall’s building on Flatbush Avenue was largely demolished except for the frame. (Some of the original facade that faces in toward the library’s parking lot is still visible.) Completed by late 1940, the Central Library opened to the public on February 1, 1941. It is regarded today as one of America’s greatest Art Deco buildings.
The second floor of the Central Library opened in 1955, nearly doubling the amount of space available to the public. Occupying over 350,000 square feet and employing 300 full-time staff members, the building serves as the administrative headquarters for the Brooklyn Public Library system. Prior to 1941 the Library’s administrative offices were located in the Williamsburg Savings Bank on Flatbush Avenue.[3]
The Central Library was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2002.
Robert has been a professional actor, director, teacher and writer for over 30 years with extensive directing credits in New York, Toronto, and regional theatre. New York directing credits include Labyrinth Theatre Co., Playwrights Horizons, Ensemble Studio Theatre, Acorn Theatre Co., Circle Rep East, The Shooting Gallery, and The Actors Studio, among others. In 2012, Robert directed the premiere of John Patrick Shanley’s “Jealous” at the Labyrinth Theatre Co. Notable New York productions include Shaw’s You Never Can Tell, Wycherley’s The Country Wife, Dancing at Llughnasa, The Trojan Women, Phaedra (The Public Theatre/Potters Field Co.), The Art of Dining, Magic Time, The Shadow Box, Rivers and Ravines, Feydeau’s A Cat Among the Pigeons, and A Flea in Her Ear. He assisted Pam Berlin on Elm Circle for Playwrights Horizons, and the late Gerry Guttierez on Terra Nova. Currently, he is directing “Wrights Wrongs”, an original webisode comedy series in New York City. Robert will directing his short screenplay A Thousand Kisses Deep scheduled to begin shooting in Toronto for Roxborough Films in Fall 2013.
Robert is a produced playwright and screenwriter, with plays produced in NY, San Diego and Toronto. His full-length play ‘Icarus Sings’ was workshopped in NY last season for a Toronto production in the 2013-2014 season.
Robert has extensive film, television and theatre credits and national commercials. During 2013, Robert played a Leading role opposite Joseph Fiennes and Ed Asner in Disney’s upcoming 2014 release “The Games Maker”. He had Guest Staring roles on “Saving Hope”, NBC, and on Season 4 of “Boardwalk Empire”. Robert also directed several new plays written by John Patrick Shanley, Robert Askins, and Don Nigro fro NyLonFusion Co, NY. He is the founding member of the Articulate Theatre Co, NY and the author of the original play “Icarus Sings” in pre-production in Vancouver, Canada following it’s recent workshop in Toronto. Last year included a recurring role on top rated “Suits”, and guest starring on “Warehouse 13″, in a new series “Cracked”, and a lead role in the pilot “Port Hope”. Among the many talents he has been fortunate to work with are Christopher Plummer, Mike Nichols, William H. Macy, William Hurt, Harvey Keitel, Cybill Shepard, Mary Louise Parker, Christopher Walken, Stanley Tucci, Paul Newman, Joanne Woodward, among others.
He is an instructor and director at the Terry Schreiber Studio, and previously was on the faculty of The American Academy of Dramatic Arts, Ensemble Studio Theatre Institute in New York, as well as Equity Showcase Theatre in Toronto. In demand as a teacher and private coach, he teaches in Toronto, Los Angeles and New York.
PRODUCER – Articulate Theatre Company – Cat Parker, Artistic Director
Articulate Theatre Company is an ensemble driven company who thrive on being storytellers. Our simple mantra is ‘good stories, told well.’ Guided by the three definitions of ‘articulate,’ -clarity, structure and connectivity- we are committed to challenging and connecting audiences and artist with clearly structured work that is intelligent, thought-provoking and visually striking.
Eric is a veteran television/film director, art director, and production designer specializing in an integrated approach to the creative direction and technical execution of programming and entertainment of all kinds. In a career spanning over 30 years he has provided creative and technical leadership to the world’s most prestigious program producers, including the ABC, CBS, PBS, HBO and MSG television networks. He has been the director of, or a contributing director to, the widest possible variety of live television broadcasts – election nights, town hall meetings, political debates and conventions, prime-time news magazines, morning shows, Sunday roundtables, musical performances, parades, evening and late night news, and more special events than he dares try to remember. His work as a director, art director, and production/scenic designer has been recognized with 11 Emmy awards, the Dupont Columbia Award, the Peabody Award, a Christopher Award, the Cine Golden Eagle, and over 25 Broadcast Designers Association awards.
Andre Yoder Harris is a Photographer and Director of Photography/camera operator based in New York City. He was born and raised in Norfolk, Virginia, and received his higher education from the Rhode Island School of Design and Brown University. A film and photography major, he has a particular passion for documentary filmmaking and portraiture.
In the early 1990s, he traveled the world, working primarily as an Assistant Camera operator for production companies/feature productions ranging from National Geographic and HBO to independent documentaries and Hollywood films and behind-the-scenes documentary productions. In addition, he AC’d dozens of music videos and later shot and DP’d others.
After his wife sustained a serious injury in 2002, Andre chose to limit out-of-town travel, shifting his professional focus to network news and special events/music close to home, working primarily for ABCNews. In recent years, Andre has also incorporated his longstanding love of fast/beautiful cars and auto racing into his photographic work, developing a sub-specialty in motorsports photography and what he describes as “automotive portraiture.”
Richard Einhorn’s unique music has been described as “hauntingly beautiful,” “sensational,” and “overwhelming in its emotional power.” He has become one of a small handful of living composers who not only reaches a large worldwide audience but whose music receives widespread critical praise for its integrity, emotional depth, and craft.
In February 2009, Einhorn premiered The Origin, an opera/oratorio based on the work and life of Charles Darwin. Performed to packed houses and standing ovations, the Syracuse Post-Standard wrote, “Einhorn has created an imaginative work layered with profound insight…”
Einhorn’s “opera with silent film,” Voices of Light, has been hailed in reviews as “a great masterpiece of contemporary music” and “a work of meticulous genius.” After selling out its New York City premiere engagements at the Brooklyn Academy of Music Next Wave Festival, Voices of Light has had over 100 performances throughout the US and the world including sold-out performances at Avery Fisher Hall; the Kennedy Center and Wolf Trap with the National Symphony; the Cabrillo Festival with Marin Alsop; and during two extremely successful national tours featuring the medieval vocal group Anonymous 4. The Sony Classical CD of Voices of Light was a Billboard classical bestseller, earning Einhorn the distinction of being one of only a few composers to have made “the charts.” Voices of Light has attracted national media attention including articles in the Wall Street Journal, segments on All Things Considered and Performance Today, and an extended profile on CBS television network’s magazine show, CBS Sunday Morning. Recent performances of Voices of Light have taken place at Sydney Opera House in Australia, at Esplanade in Singapore, and in Johannesburg and Pretoria, South Africa.
Einhorn has written opera, orchestral and chamber music, song cycles, film music, and dance scores. Among his many projects is the wildly popular Red Angels for New York City Ballet set to Einhorn’s music with choreography by Ulysses Dove, which had its television premiere on “Live From Lincoln Center” (PBS) in May of 2002. His film credits include the Academy Award-winning documentary short, Educating Peter (HBO) and Arthur Penn’s thriller Dead of Winter (MGM), starring Mary Steenbugen; and Fire-Eater directed by Pirjo Honkasalo, for which Einhorn won the Jussi (Finnish Academy Award) for Best Musical Score.
Born in 1952, Richard Einhorn graduated summa cum laude in music from Columbia University. Before turning his attention exclusively to composition, Einhorn worked as a record producer for such artists as Meredith Monk and The New York Philharmonic. His production of the Bach Cello Suites with Yo-Yo Ma won a Grammy for Best Instrumental Performance.
Recent works include The Spires, The City, The Field, a 9/11 memorial premiered by the Albany Symphony. A Carnival of Miracles, a piece written for Anonymous 4, premiered to a sold-out crowd at New Sounds Live and broadcasted live over WNYC-FM. My Many Colored Days is an orchestral commission from the Minnesota Orchestra. He lives in New York City with his wife Amy Singer and their daughter Miranda.
Jim Biederman is founder and President of JimCo – a full service production company specializing in scripted as well as non-scripted comedy programs. He has Executive Produced television shows for NBC, CBS, TBS, IFC, MTV, Comedy Central, VH1, Fuse, Logo, CBC, BBC America, among others.
For over 30 years, George has been designing award-winning scenery for television, theatre and film. During his 10-year run as senior production designer for ABC News, his award winning works included Good Morning America (co-designed with Stuart Wurtzel) and Nightline. Other ABC credits include World News Tonight, PrimeTime Live, This Week, 20/20 and numerous specials. Recent design work includes MTV’s Rapfix and VMA All Access; Intelligence Squared Debates for the Rosenkrantz Foundation; Roger Ebert Presents At the Movies; Vine Talk with Stanley Tucci for PBS and the game shows Who Wants To Be a Millionaire and Power of 10. Corporate projects include design work for Goldman Sachs, Yahoo, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, Council on Foreign Relations and the White House Press Briefing Room. Film work includes production design for several independent films and second unit art direction for the action-comedy feature film The Other Guys starring Will Ferrell. He has designed over 200 Off-Broadway theatre productions. New York work includes The Strike by Rod Sterling, Divine Right, Carreno, and Nightshade by Howard Koch. He is also proud of his work for the Vietnam Veterans Ensemble Theatre Company and Theatre by the Blind. His most recent theatre work includes his award-winning design for Picasso at the Lapin Agile, Sister Cities, Twelfth Night and Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead.
Sebastian Montoya feels incredibly lucky to join the Articulate Theatre family, and is thrilled to be in the company of such a talented group of people. Some favorite past credits include John in Balm in Gilead (T. Schreiber Studio), Brian in Joking Apart (T. Schreiber Studio) and Dan Shapiro in Sexual Perversity in Chicago (SOL Theatre). Sebastian has studied at Terry Schreiber Studio and is currently trying to learn to be funny at Upright Citizens Brigade.
Esteban Benito is an Actor/Writer born and raised in Yonkers, New York. He has studied at T. Schreiber Studio and has been in numerous plays including their award winning production of Balm In Gilead by Lanford Wilson. He was last seen on the stage in the workshop production of Contigo by Paola Munos at the Signature Theatre. For Television, he was recently seen in a recurring role on the long time running soap opera One Life to Live as Diego Padilla.
| 16,143 |
We knew 2019 was a very wet spring but did you realize that we have had about one more inch of rain through April and May this year than we did in 2019? Now on the other side most of Licking County has only received about 1 inch of rain so far in June (as of the 18th) while last year we averaged 6.52 inches for the month. This has helped significantly with hay production as most people are finished with first cutting and last year it was just beginning. I will be interested to see if this dry trend continues.
Posted by kreager.5 at 9:01am Leave a comment
June 19 2020
While leasing your land for oil and gas is not as popular in Licking county as some of the counties to the east, there has been increasing talk from landowners who have been approached about solar leases. OSU Extension is hosting a free three-part webinar to answer questions and provide information for entering into leases. Click on the following link for details and registration: 2020 Shale and Solar Flyer-2
Posted by kreager.5 at 9:00am Leave a comment
Dicamba regulation update – use ends June 30th
June 19 2020
The dicamba roller coaster ride continues today, with a statement issued by the Ohio Department of Agriculture clarifying that the use of XtendiMax, Engenia, and FeXapan dicamba-based products in Ohio will end as of June 30, 2020. Even though the US EPA has issued an order allowing continued use of the products until July 31, 2020, use in Ohio must end on June 30 because the Ohio registrations for the three dicamba-based products expire on that day.
As we’ve explained in our previous blog posts here and here, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals vacated the registration of the dicamba products on June 3, 2020. In doing so, the court stated that the EPA had failed to perform a proper analysis of the risks and resulting costs of the products. According to the court, EPA had substantially understated the amount of acreage damaged by dicamba and the extent of such damage, as well as complaints made to state agriculture departments. The court determined that EPA had also entirely failed to acknowledge other risks, such as the risk of noncompliance with complex label restrictions, economic risks from anti-competition impacts created by the products, and the social costs to farm communities caused by dicamba versus non-dicamba users. Rather than allowing the EPA to reconsider the registrations, the court vacated the product registrations altogether.
The EPA issued a Cancellation Order for the three products on June 8, stating that distribution or sale by the registrants is prohibited as of June 3, 2020. But the agency also decided to examine the issue on the minds of many farmers: what to do with the products. Applying its “existing stocks” policy, the EPA examined six factors to help it determine how to deal with stocks of the product that are in the hands of dealers, commercial applicators, and farmers. The EPA concluded that those factors weighed heavily in favor of allowing the end users to use the products in their possession, but that use must occur no later than July 31, 2020 and that any use inconsistent with the previous label restrictions is prohibited.
Despite the EPA’s Cancellation Order, however, the Ohio Department of Agriculture is the final arbiter of the registration and use of pesticides and herbicides within Ohio. ODA patiently waited for the EPA to act on the Ninth Circuit’s ruling before issuing its guidance for Ohio users of the dicamba products. In its guidance released today, ODA stated that:
After careful evaluation of the court’s ruling, US EPA’s Final Cancellation Order, and the Ohio Revised Code and Administrative Code, as of July 1, 2020, these products will no longer be registered or available for use in Ohio unless otherwise ordered by the courts.
While use of already purchased product is permitted in Ohio until June 30, further distribution or sale of the products is illegal, except for ensuring proper disposal or return to the registrant.
Application of existing stocks inconsistent with the previously approved labeling accompanying the product is prohibited.
But the roller coaster ride doesn’t necessarily end there. Several dangling issues for dicamba-based product use remain:
We’re still waiting to see whether the plaintiffs who challenged the registrations (the National Family Farm Coalition, Center for Food Safety, Center for Biological Diversity, and Pesticide Action Network North America) will also challenge the EPA’s Cancellation Order and its decision to allow continued use of the products, and will request immediate discontinuance of such uses.
Bayer Crop Science, as an intervenor in the Ninth Circuit case, could still appeal the Ninth Circuit’s decision, as could the EPA.
All of these orders add complexity to the issue of liability for dicamba damage. That issue has already become quite controversial, often pitting farmer against farmer and requiring the applicator or damaged party to prove adherence to or violation of the complicated label restrictions. But the Ninth Circuit’s attention to the risks of adverse impacts from the products raises additional questions about whether an applicator who chooses to use the products is knowingly assuming a higher risk, and whether a liability insurance provider will cover that risk. For this reason, growers may want to have a frank discussion with their liability insurance providers about coverage for dicamba drift.
The dicamba roller coaster ride will surely continue, and we’ll keep you updated on the next development.
Additional update from Peggy Hall.
It appears that there will not be an immediate federal order to cease use of dicamba, despite the emergency motion filed by the National Family Farm Coalition last Thursday that asked the Ninth Circuit to void the EPA’s order that allow use of existing stocks. Since then:
The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals has directed the EPA to respond to the emergency motion, giving the agency until the end of the work day on June 16 to do so.
The court has also directed the Coalition to then file a reply to the EPA’s response, and to do so by the end of the workday on June 18.
This suggests that the court will make a ruling after June 18. For the time being, then, the Court of Appeals has not taken any further action that would disallow ODA’s allowance of the use of dicamba in Ohio until June 30.
However, as I mentioned in my last blog post on the Ohio Ag Law Blog, it would be wise for applicators to check in with their insurers to determine whether their insurers will cover a drift incident given the “vacated” registration status of XtendiMax, FeXapan and Engenia. Some insurers have already indicated that they will not ensure coverage.
Be aware, also, that Corteva Agriscience (maker of FeXapan) and BASF (maker of Engenia) have filed motions to intervene in the case. Although it’s doubtful that the court will allow intervention at this point in the process, the motions suggest that the three companies (Bayer Crop Science is already an intervenor in the case) are planning an appeal of the Ninth Circuit’s decision to vacate the registrations. That appeal would go to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Posted by kreager.5 at 9:00am Leave a comment
Tree and plant identification videos
June 19 2020
In collaboration with the OSU South Centers and Tree Talk we are launching a YouTube video series, Tree Identification Clips that can be found at: http://go.osu.edu/treeid There are currently 6 videos posted with 7 more being edited this week. We plan to post new ones on the 2nd and 4th Fridays of each month until we get the site populated. For all those interested in identifying types of trees but not wanting to take a class or sit down with books, these 1 to 3 minute video clips are a great way to start.
Posted by kreager.5 at 9:00am Leave a comment
What is new in agriculture law?
June 19 2020
Ohio Legislative Update
Tuesday, June 16th, 2020
Written by Ellen Essman, Senior Research Associate
There’s been a lot of action in the Ohio General Assembly over the last few weeks ahead of the body’s summer break. Specifically, the House of Representatives has considered bills involving a student debt forgiveness program for veterinarians, animal abuse, road safety in Amish country, immunity for apiary owners for bee stings, and a bill meant to support county fairs during the COVID pandemic. Finally, both the Ohio House and Senate have passed bills that would limit liability involving the transfer of COVID-19.
Animal-drawn vehicle lighting. House Bill 501, concerning slow-moving, animal drawn vehicles, was introduced in February of 2020 and was first heard in the House Transportation & Public Safety committee on June 2. The purpose of HB 501 is to “clarify the law governing slow-moving vehicles and to revise the lighting and reflective material requirements applicable to animal-drawn vehicles.” The bill would require animal-drawn vehicles, like the buggies typically driven by the Amish, to have the following: (1) at least one white lamp in the front visible from 1,000 feet or more; (2) two red lamps in the rear visible from 1000 or more; (3) one yellow flashing lamp mounted on the top most portion of the rear of the vehicle; (4) a slow moving vehicle (SMV) emblem; and (5) micro-prism reflective tape that is visible from at least 500 feet to the rear when illuminated by low beams on a vehicle. In the committee hearing, HB 501 had mostly positive feedback, and was touted as a solution to crashes involving animal-drawn vehicles in poor visibility.
When the bee stings. HB 496, which would grant apiary owners immunity for bee stings, passed the Ohio House on June 9, 2020. The bill would protect the owner of a registered apiary from liability in the case of a personal injury or property damage from a sting if they do the following: (1) implement and comply with the beekeeping industry best management practices (BMPs) as established by the department of agriculture; (2) keep correct and complete records of their implementation and compliance with BMPs and make the records available in a legal proceeding; (3) comply with local zoning ordinances pertaining to apiaries; (4) operate the apiary in compliance with the Ohio Revised Code. Notably, the bill would not protect apiarists from harming a person intentionally or through gross negligence. The bill now moves on to the Ohio Senate for consideration.
Debt forgiveness for veterinarians. The House also passed HB 67 on June 10, 2020. This bill would create the “veterinarian student debt assistance program,” which would determine which veterinarians would receive student debt assistance, and how much each person would receive. The amount awarded must be between $5,000 and $10,000. Essentially, if the new veterinarian agrees to live in Ohio for a certain amount of time, and to participate in “charitable veterinarian services” like spaying and neutering for a nonprofit organization, humane society, law enforcement agency, or state, local, or federal government, student debt could be forgiven. The details, including how many hours a veterinarian would need to work for charity, the types of charities that qualify, the amount of time a person must live in Ohio, and others would be determined by State Veterinary Medical Licenses Board.
Animal abuse. HB 33 passed the lower chamber on June 11, 2020. This bill would require veterinarians, social service professionals (people who work at the county Job and Family Services, Children’s Services), counselors, social workers, and other similar professions to report violations against “companion animals” (dogs, cats, other animals kept in a residential dwelling), to law enforcement and/or the county humane agent or animal control officer. People in these professions would have to report when they have “knowledge or reasonable cause to suspect” that violations to companion animals are happening, and they know or suspect that a child or older adult (60 years and older) lives in the residence, and they know or suspect that the violation is having an impact on the child or older adult. Violations include animal abandonment, injury, poisoning, cruelty, fighting, dog fighting, or sexual conduct with an animal.
Assistance for county fairs. If you’ve heard about any Ohio legislation recently, it was likely this bill. HB 665 was passed by the House after much debate on June 11, 2020. The 61 page bill makes a lot of changes to the statutory language. Importantly, the bill would make it a misdemeanor for patrons not to follow written warnings and directions on amusement rides. The bill also makes a number of changes to how county agricultural societies operate. First of all, members of a county agricultural society would have to be residents of the county. Members would have to pay a fee to retain membership, and the societies would have to issue a printed membership certificate to members. In counties with an ag society, the county treasurer must transfer $1600 to the society each year as long as the society holds its annual exhibition, reports to the Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA), and the director of ODA presents the society with a certificate showing it has followed applicable laws and regulations. The bill also addresses independent agricultural societies, to which similar rules apply. The county board of commissioners would also be required to appropriate at least $100 to the ag society’s junior club. The bill would require ag societies to create a report of its proceedings during the year, file a financial report and send it to the ODA director, and publish an announcement in the county newspaper or the society’s website a statement about the filing of the financial report, and contact information for people who want to obtain a copy of the report. The bill also outlines the circumstances under which an ag society can sell fairgrounds or parts of fairgrounds. Finally, an amendment to the bill was adopted that would allow rescheduling of horse races.
So what was so controversial about this bill? A suggested amendment to the bill led to a heated argument in the House. The amendment would have banned sales and displays of confederate flags and other memorabilia at county fairs. This ban is already in place at the Ohio State Fair, but not county fairs. Ultimately, the bill passed in the house, but this amendment did not. The vote to table the amendment was largely along party lines, with every Republican except one voting against the amendment, and all Democrats voting for.
COVID-19 liability. The House passed HB 606 back in May, and we discussed it in a blog post here. As a refresher, the bill is meant to protect businesses, schools, corporations, people, etc. from liability. It would accomplish this with the declaration: “orders and recommendations from the Executive Branch, from counties and local municipalities, from boards of health and other agencies, and from any federal government agency, do not create any new legal duties for purposes of tort liability.” In other words, as long as the person, school, or business did not expose or transfer the virus recklessly, intentionally, or with willful and wanton conduct, someone could not bring a civil action for injury, death, or loss to person or property if they contract COVID from the entity. Furthermore, the bill also provides temporary civil immunity for health care providers, grants immunity to the State for care of persons in its custody or if an officer or employee becomes infected with COVID-19 in the performance or nonperformance of governmental functions and public duties, and expands the definition of “governmental functions” for purposes of political subdivision immunity to include actions taken during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Ohio Senate passed a similar bill, SB 308. Unlike the House bill, SB 308 provides immunity only in the health care context. The bill would provide immunity from civil liability for doctors, nurses, and others working in the health care arena during “disasters” like the current pandemic. It would also provide a qualified immunity from liability to services providers for “manufacturing” and any other service “that is part of or outside of a service provider’s normal course of business conducted during the period of a disaster or emergency declared due to COVID-19 and ending on April 1, 2021.”
What’s next? The Ohio Senate is scheduled to meet next week on an “as needed” basis. During these tentatively scheduled sessions, the senate could consider the bills that have cleared the House—HBs 496, 67, 33, and 665. If passed by the Senate, the bills would then move on to Governor DeWine for approval. We will keep you updated on what the Senate and Governor decide. In the case of the COVID immunity bills, each bill moved to the opposite house, where they are currently being considered in committees. We’ll have to wait and see if one or both are sent on to DeWine, or if the two houses choose to somehow combine the bills into one document.
Posted by kreager.5 at 8:59am Leave a comment
Cover Crop Cost Share
June 19 2020
To promote the use of cover crops, the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District is again providing funding for the Cover Crop Cost-Share Program to assist producers in planting cover crops to decrease erosion and improve water quality.
Soil & Water will be accepting applications until July 3, 2020. Applications are evaluated individually with fields being scored based on several criteria. Fields that score high enough are approved for cost-share funding at a rate of $12/approved acre. If a producer and field are new to the Program, the cost-share rate is $15/approved acre. There is a cap of 200 approved acres per producer.
The application and additional details can be found here: https://lickingswcd.com/what-we-do/agri-rural-resources.html
Posted by kreager.5 at 8:59am Leave a comment
Don’t miss your opportunity – CFAP Program for livestock and crop producers.
June 19 2020
The Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) will provide $16 billion in Direct Support to Farmers and Ranchers. This is designed to assist with losses attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic. Sign up has begun and will continue until the close of business on August 28th. Benefits are available for livestock including cattle, sheep (yearlings and lambs only), and hogs. Dairy milk is eligible but has a separate payment calculation. Many specialty and non-specialty crops are also included. For more details specific crops and payment amounts please click on this link: CFAP Payments Final 5 20 2020
The Farm Service Agency is handling the application process. You do not need to have participated in any of their programs in the past to be eligible. Please call them at 740-670-5340 to start the process.
Posted by kreager.5 at 8:58am Leave a comment
Nominations Opened June 15 for the 2020 County Committee Elections for the Farm Service Agence
June 19 2020
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) encourages all farmers and FSA program participants to take part in the Licking County Committee election nomination process.
FSA’s county committees are a critical component of the day-to-day operations of FSA and allow grassroots input and local administration of federal farm programs.
Committees are comprised of locally elected agricultural producers responsible for the fair and equitable administration of FSA farm programs in their counties. Committee members are accountable to the Secretary of Agriculture. If elected, members become part of a local decision making and farm program delivery process.
A county committee is composed of three to 11 elected members from local administrative areas (LAA). Each member serves a three-year term. One-third of the seats on these committees are open for election each year.
County committees may have an appointed advisor to further represent the local interests of underserved farmers. Underserved producers are beginning, women and other minority farmers and landowners and/or operators who have limited resources.
All nomination forms for the 2020 election must be postmarked or received in the local USDA service center by Aug. 3, 2020. For more information on FSA county committee elections and appointments, refer to the FSA fact sheet: Eligibility to Vote and Hold Office as a COC Member available online at: fsa.usda.gov/elections.
Posted by kreager.5 at 8:58am Leave a comment
Maps for Acreage Reporting
June 19 2020
Maps have been mailed out by the Licking County FSA Office for acreage reporting purposes. If you have not received your maps, please call our office at 740-670-5340.
Once producers receive their maps, they need to fill them out with the crop that was planted and the plant date in each field. Once they are filled out, please return them to the office by mail or call to make an appointment to drop them off. The information will then be data loaded and the office staff will contact the producer to sign a form verifying the information.
In order to maintain program eligibility and benefits, producers must timely file acreage reports. Failure to file an acreage report by the crop acreage reporting deadline may result in ineligibility for future program benefits. FSA will not accept acreage reports provided more than a year after the acreage reporting deadline.
Producers are encouraged to file their acreage reports as soon as planting is completed.
Posted by kreager.5 at 8:57am Leave a comment
Recent Posts
Last chance to sign up for GAP’s (good agricultural practices) training
When neighbors share subsurface drainage systems, who has what rights?
Farmer and Farmland Owner Income Tax Webinar
Join us next week for the Soil & Water banquet!
Troy Liptak on A hunting we will go: laws landowners need to know
Danita Jenkins on Property Owners: CAUV and Agricultural District are not the same – Are you in both?
Jon Snow on Forages for Horses course
November 2022
October 2022
August 2022
July 2022
June 2022
May 2022
April 2022
March 2022
February 2022
January 2022
December 2021
November 2021
October 2021
September 2021
August 2021
July 2021
June 2021
May 2021
April 2021
March 2021
February 2021
January 2021
December 2020
November 2020
October 2020
September 2020
August 2020
June 2020
May 2020
April 2020
March 2020
February 2020
January 2020
December 2019
November 2019
October 2019
July 2019
June 2019
May 2019
April 2019
March 2019
February 2019
January 2019
December 2018
November 2018
October 2018
September 2018
August 2018
July 2018
Log in
The content of this site is published by the site owner(s) and is not a statement of advice, opinion, or information pertaining to The Ohio State University. Neither text, nor links to other websites, is reviewed or endorsed by The Ohio State University.
| 23,727 |
1.01 The Corporation’s principal office in Texas will be located at 12562 Dudley Road, Whitehouse, Smith County, Texas 75791. The Corporation may have such other offices, in Texas or elsewhere, as the Board of Directors may determine. The Board may change the location of any office of the Corporation.
Registered Office and Registered Agent
1.02 The Corporation will maintain a registered office and registered agent in Texas. The registered office may, but need not, be identical with the Corporation’s principal office in Texas. The Board may change the registered office and the registered agent as permitted in the Texas Non-Profit Corporation Act.
MEMBERS: Class of Members
2.01 The Corporation will have one class of members.
Admitting Members and Renewing Membership
2.02 Natural persons may be admitted to membership in the Corporation by the Board. The Board may adopt and amend application procedures and qualifications for membership in the Corporation. An affirmative vote of the majority of the Directors present and voting is required for admitting any applicant who meets the membership qualifications then in effect. A member may renew membership by paying all required fees.
Membership Fees and Dues
2.03 The Board may set and change the amount of an initiation fee, if any, and the annual dues payable to the Corporation by members. Dues are payable on the first day of February of each year.
Certificates of Membership
2.04 The Board may provide for issuing certificates evidencing membership in the Corporation. When a person has been admitted as a member and has paid any required fees and dues, the Corporation will issue a membership certificate to the person. Such certificates will be signed by the president or a vice president and the secretary or an assistant secretary. Membership certificates will be numbered consecutively. If a certificate is lost, mutilated, or destroyed, a new one may be issued.
2.05 Each member is entitled to one vote on each matter voted upon.
Resolving Disputes
2.06 In any dispute between members relating to the Corporation’s activities, all parties involved will cooperate in good faith to resolve the dispute. If the parties cannot resolve a dispute among themselves, they will cooperate to select one or more mediators to help resolve it. If no timely resolution of the dispute occurs through mediation, any party may demand binding arbitration as described in Civil Practice and Remedies Code Section 171.021 regardless of whether the parties have met together with a mediator. This paragraph will not apply to a dispute involving the Corporation as a party relating to the sanctioning, suspending, or expelling a member from the Corporation. The Board may authorize using corporate funds for mediation or arbitration.
Sanctioning, Suspending, or Terminating Members
2.07 The Board may impose reasonable sanctions on a member, or suspend or expel a member from the Corporation, for good cause after a hearing. Good cause includes defaulting on an obligation to the Corporation to pay fees or dues for a period of 60 days following delivery of notice of default, or a material and serious violation of the Corporation’s articles of incorporation, bylaws, or rules, or of law. The Board may delegate powers to a regular or ad hoc committee to conduct a hearing, make recommendations to the Board, or take action on the Board’s behalf. The Board or a committee designated by the Board to handle a matter involving sanctioning, suspension, or expulsion may not take any action against a member without giving the member adequate notice and an opportunity to be heard. To be deemed adequate, notice must be in writing and delivered at least 14 days before the hearing. But shorter notice may be deemed adequate if the Board or a committee designated by the Board to handle a matter involving sanctioning, suspension, or expulsion] determines that the need for a timely hearing outweighs the prejudice caused to the member and if the notice states the need for a timely hearing. If mailed, the notice will be sent by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested. A member may be represented by counsel at and before the hearing. The Board or a committee designated by the Board to handle a matter involving sanctioning, suspension, or expulsion may impose sanctions, suspend a member, or expel a member by vote of a majority of directors who are present and voting.
2.08 Any member may resign from the Corporation by submitting a written resignation to the secretary. The resignation need not be accepted by the Corporation to be effective. A member’s resignation will not relieve him or her of any obligations to pay any dues, assessments, or other charges that had accrued and were unpaid before the effective date of the resignation.
2.09 A former member may submit a written request for reinstatement of membership. The Board or a committee designated by the Board to handle the matter may reinstate membership on any reasonable terms that the Board or committee deems appropriate.
Transferring Membership
2.10 Membership in the Corporation is not transferable or assignable. Membership terminates when the Corporation dissolves or a member dies. Membership is not a property right that may be transferred after a member dies.
Waiving Interest in Corporate Property
2.11 The Corporation owns all real and personal property, including all improvements located on the property, acquired by the Corporation. A member has no interest in specific property of the Corporation. Each member waives the right to require partition of all or part of the Corporation’s property.
MEETINGS OF MEMBERS
3.01 Beginning in 2009, the Board will hold an annual members’ meeting at 7:00 PM, on the first Thursday of July 2009 and subsequently each February of each following year or at another time that the Board designates. At the annual meeting, the members will elect directors and transact any other business that may come before the meeting. If, in any year, the election of directors is not held on the day designated for the annual meeting, or at any adjournment of the annual meeting, the Board will call a special meeting of the members, as soon as possible, to elect directors.
3.02 Special meetings of the members may be called by the President, the Board, or not less than 20% of the voting members.
3.03 The Board may designate any place, inside or outside Texas, as the place of meeting for any annual meeting or for any special meeting called by the Board. If the Board does not designate the place of meeting, the meeting will be held at the Corporation’s registered office in Texas.
3.04 Written or printed notice of any members’ meeting, not including the annual meeting, will be delivered to each member entitled to vote at the meeting not less than 10–nor more than 60–days before the date of the meeting. The record date for determining the members entitled to notice of any meeting of members will be established by the Board according to Article 1396–2.11A of the Revised Civil Statutes. After fixing the record date, the Board will cause to be prepared an alphabetical list of all members entitled to notice of any meeting of members. Notice will be given by or at the direction of the president or secretary, or the officers or persons calling the meeting. If all of the members meet and consent to holding a meeting, any corporate action may be taken at the meeting regardless of lack of proper notice.
Eligibility to Vote at Members’ Meetings
3.05 A member in good standing is entitled to vote at a meeting of the members of the corporation. A member in good standing is one who has paid all required fees and dues and is not suspended as of the date of the meeting. The record date for determining the members entitled to vote at any meeting of members will be established by the Board according to Article 1396–2.11A of the Revised Civil Statutes. After a record date is fixed, an alphabetical list of members entitled to receive notice, including their addresses and number of votes each is entitled to cast, will be prepared. The list will contain a listing of members entitled to vote at the meeting but not entitled to receive notice and will be available for inspection at the principal office of the corporation from two business days after notice is given until the meeting is held. Any member entitled to vote at the meeting is entitled to access to the list for the purpose of communicating with other members. The member or the member’s agent or attorney may make the inspection on written demand and copy the list at a reasonable time and at the member’s expense.
3.06 Members holding one-tenth of the votes that may be cast at a meeting who attend the meeting in person will constitute a quorum at a meeting of members. The members present at a duly called or held meeting at which a quorum is present may continue to transact business, even if enough members leave so that less than a quorum remains. But no action may be approved without the vote of at least a majority of the number of members required for a quorum. If a quorum is not present at any time during a meeting, a majority of the members are present may adjourn and reconvene the meeting once without further notice.
Actions of Membership
3.07 The membership will try to act by consensus. However, if a consensus is not available on a matter or proposal, the vote of a majority of voting members in good standing, present and entitled vote at a meeting at which a quorum is present, is enough to constitute the act of the membership unless law or the bylaws require a greater number. Voting will be by ballot or voice, except that any election of directors will be by ballot if demanded by any voting member at the meeting before the voting begins.
3.08 No proxy votes are permitted.
4.01 The Board will manage corporate affairs.
Number, Qualifications, and Tenure of Directors
4.02 The number of Directors will be six. Directors must be Texas residents. Directors will be members of the Corporation. The immediate past President shall be an ex – officio, voting member of Board and shall serve for a term of one year. When the other first six members of the Board are elected on or about the first Thursday in July, 2009, three of these members will serve for a one – year term and the other three members will serve for a two – year term. To determine which term lengths each of the first six Board members will serve a drawing will be held. Thereafter, Board members will be elected at the Annual Meeting on the first Thursday in February of each succeeding year, with the exception of the April 2010 Annual Meeting when new Board members will be elected by the corporation to serve until February 2012. Board members whose terms are expiring will have an election to fill those three positions. A Board member whose term is expiring may be re-elected to the Board.
Nominating Directors
4.03 At any meeting at which the election of a director is held, a voting member in good standing may nominate a person with the second of any other voting member in good standing.
Electing Directors
4.04 A person who meets the qualifications for director and who has been duly nominated may be elected as a director. Directors will be elected by the vote of the membership of LONE STAR ANTIQUE TRACTOR & ENGINE ASSOCIATION, INC., a Texas Nonprofit Corporation. Each director will hold office until a successor is elected and qualifies. A director may be elected to succeed himself or herself as director.
Directors will be elected at the annual meeting of the members.
4.05 The Board will fill any vacancy in the Board and any director position to be filled due to an increase in the number of directors. A vacancy is filled by the affirmative vote of a majority of the remaining directors, even if it is less than a quorum of the Board, or if it is a sole remaining director. A director selected to fill a vacancy will be serve for the unexpired term of his or her predecessor in office.
4.06 The annual meeting of the Board may be held without notice other than these Bylaws. The annual Board meeting will be held each year immediately after the annual members’ meeting.
4.07 The Board may provide for regular meetings by resolution stating the time and place of such meetings. The meetings may be held inside or outside Texas, and will be held at the Corporation’s registered office in Texas if the resolution does not specify the location of the meetings. No notice of regular Board meetings is required other than a Board resolution stating the time and place of the meetings.
4.08 Special Board meetings may be called by, or at the request of, the president or any two directors. A person or persons authorized to call special meetings of the Board may fix any place within Texas as the place for holding a special meeting. The person or persons calling a special meeting will inform the secretary of the corporation of the information to be included in the notice of the meeting. The secretary of the Corporation will give notice to the directors as these Bylaws require.
4.09 Written or printed notice of any special meeting of the Board will be delivered to each director not less than seven, nor more than 30 days before the date of the meeting. The notice will state the place, day, and time of the meeting; who called it; and the purpose or purposes for which it is called.
4.10 A majority of the number of directors then in office constitutes a quorum for transacting business at any Board meeting. The directors present at a duly called or held meeting at which a quorum is present may continue to transact business even if enough directors leave the meeting so that less than a quorum remains. However, no action may be approved without the vote of at least a majority of the number of directors required for a quorum. If a quorum is never present at any time during a meeting, a majority of the directors present may adjourn and reconvene the meeting once without further notice.
Duties of Directors
4.11 Directors will discharge their duties, including any duties as committee members, in good faith, with ordinary care, and in a manner they reasonably believe to be in the Corporation’s best interest. In this context, the term ”ordinary care” means the care that ordinarily prudent persons in similar positions would exercise under similar circumstances. In discharging any duty imposed or power conferred on directors, directors may, in good faith, rely on information, opinions, reports, or statements, including financial statements and other financial data, concerning the Corporation or another person that has been prepared or presented by a variety of persons, including officers and employees of the Corporation, professional advisors or experts such as accountants or legal counsel. A director is not relying in good faith if he or she has knowledge concerning a matter in question that renders reliance unwarranted. Directors are not deemed to have the duties of trustees of a trust with respect to the Corporation or with respect to any property held or administered by the Corporation, including property that may be subject to restrictions imposed by the donor or transferor of the property.
4.12 Directors who vote for or assent to improper distributions are jointly and severally liable to the Corporation for the value of improperly distributed assets, to the extent that, as a result of the improper distribution or distributions, the corporation lacks sufficient assets to pay its debts, obligations, and liabilities. Any distribution made when the Corporation is insolvent, other than in payment of corporate debts, or any distribution that would render the Corporation insolvent, is an improper distribution. A distribution made during liquidation without payment and discharge of or provision for payment and discharge of all known debts, obligations, and liabilities is also improper. Directors present at a Board meeting at which the improper action is taken are presumed to have assented, unless they dissent in writing. The written dissent must be filed with the secretary of the Corporation before adjournment of the meeting in question or mailed to the secretary by registered mail immediately after adjournment. A director is not liable if, in voting for or assenting to a distribution, the director (1) relies in good faith and with ordinary care on information, opinions, reports, or statements, including financial statements and other financial data, prepared or presented by one or more officers or employees of the Corporation; legal counsel, public accountants, or other persons as to matters the director reasonably believes are within the person’s professional or expert competence; or a committee of the Board of which the director is not a member; (2) while acting in good faith and with ordinary care, considers the Corporation’s assets to be at least that of their book value; or (3) in determining whether the Corporation made adequate provision for paying, satisfying, or discharging all of its liabilities and obligations, relied in good faith and with ordinary care on financial statements or other information concerning a person who was or became contractually obligated to satisfy or discharge some or all of these liabilities or obligations. Furthermore, directors are protected from liability if, in exercising ordinary care, they acted in good faith and in reliance on the written opinion of an attorney for the Corporation.
Directors held liable for an improper distribution are entitled to contribution from persons who accepted or received the improper distributions knowing they were improper. Contribution is in proportion to the amount received by each such person.
Delegating Duties
4.13 Directors may select advisors and delegate duties and responsibilities to them, such as the full power to buy or otherwise acquire stocks, bonds, securities, and other investments on the Corporation’s behalf; and to sell, transfer, or otherwise dispose of the Corporation’s assets and properties at a time and for a consideration that the advisor deems appropriate. The directors have no liability for actions taken or omitted by the advisor if the Board acts in good faith and with ordinary care in selecting the advisor. The Board may remove or replace the advisor at any time and without any cause whatsoever.
Interested Directors
4.14 Contracts or transactions between directors, officers, or members who have a financial interest in the matter are not void or voidable solely for that reason. Nor are they void or voidable solely because the director, officer, or member is present at or participates in the meeting that authorizes the contract or transaction, or solely because the interested party’s votes are counted for the purpose. However, every director with any personal interest in the transaction must disclose all material facts concerning the transaction, including all potential personal benefit and potential conflicts of interest, to the other members of the Board or other group authorizing the transaction. The transaction must be approved by a majority of the uninterested directors or other group with the authority to authorize the transaction.
Actions of Board of Directors
4.15 The Board will try to act by consensus. However, if a consensus is not available, the vote of a majority of directors present and voting at a meeting at which a quorum is present is enough to constitute the act of the Board, unless the act of a greater number is required by law or by some other provision of these Bylaws. A director who is present at a meeting and abstains from a vote is not considered to be present and voting for the purpose of determining the Board’s decision. For the purpose of determining the decision of the Board, a director who is represented by proxy in a vote is considered present.
4.16 No proxies are permitted.
4.17 Directors may not receive salaries for their services. The Board may adopt a resolution providing for paying directors a fixed sum and expenses of attendance, if any, for attending each Board meeting. A director may serve the Corporation in any other capacity and receive compensation for those services. Any compensation that the Corporation pays to a director will be reasonable and commensurate with the services performed.
Removing Directors
4.18 The Board or members may vote to remove a director at any time, without cause. A meeting to consider removing a director may be called and noticed following the procedures provided in these Bylaws for a special meeting of the Board of Directors or the members of the corporation. The notice of the meeting will state that the issue of possibly removing the director will be on the agenda. At the meeting, the director may present evidence of why he or she should not be removed and may be represented by an attorney at and before the meeting. Also, at the meeting, the Corporation will consider possible arrangements for resolving the problems that are in the mutual interest of the Corporation and the director. A director may be removed by the affirmative vote of 51 percent of the Board or members.
Officer Positions
5.01 The Corporation’s officers will be a president, a secretary, one vice president, and a treasurer. The Board may create additional officer positions, define the authority and duties of each such position, and elect or appoint persons to fill the positions. The same person may hold any two or more offices, except for president and secretary. These officers are not members of the Board but the Secretary of the Corporation shall keep minutes of proceeding of Board meetings and certify documents of the Corporation as the Secretary.
Election and Term of Office
5.02 The Corporation’s officers will be elected annually by the Board at the annual Board meeting. If officers are not elected at this time, they will be elected as soon thereafter as possible. Each officer will hold office until a successor is duly selected and qualifies. An officer may be elected to succeed himself or herself in the same office.
5.03 Any officer elected or appointed by the Board may be removed by the Board without good cause.
5.04 The Board may select a person to fill a vacancy in any office for the unexpired portion of the officer’s term.
President
5.05 The president is the Corporation’s chief executive officer. He or she will supervise and control all of the Corporation’s business and affairs and will preside at all meetings of the members and of the Board. The president may execute any deeds, mortgages, bonds, contracts, or other instruments that the Board authorizes to be executed. However, the president may not execute instruments on the Corporation’s behalf if this power is expressly delegated to another officer or agent of the Corporation by the Board, these Bylaws, or statute. The president will perform other duties prescribed by the Board and all duties incident to the office of president.
Vice President
5.06 When the president is absent, cannot act, or refuses to act, a vice president will perform the president’s duties. When acting in the president’s place, the vice president has all the powers of–and is subject to all the restrictions on–the president. A vice president will perform other duties as assigned by the president or Board.
(a) Have charge and custody of–and be responsible for–all the Corporation’s funds and securities.
(b) Receive and give receipts for moneys due and payable to the Corporation from any source.
(c) Deposit all moneys in the Corporation’s name in banks, trust companies, or other depositories as these Bylaws provide or as the Board or president directs.
(e) Maintain the Corporation’s financial books and records.
(f) Prepare financial reports at least annually.
(g) Perform other duties as assigned by the president or the Board.
(h) If the Board requires, give a bond for faithfully discharging his or her duties in a sum and with a surety as determined by the Board.
(i) Perform all of the duties incident to the office of treasurer.
Secretary
(a) Give all notices as provided in the bylaws or as required by law.
(b) Take minutes of the meetings of the members and the Board and keep the minutes as part of the corporate records.
(c) Maintain custody of the corporate records and seal.
(e) Keep a register of the mailing address of each member, director, officer, and employee of the Corporation.
(f) Perform duties as assigned by the president or the Board.
(g) Serve as recording secretary of the Board and certify documents of the Corporation.
(h) Perform all duties incident to the office of secretary.
6.01 The Board may adopt a resolution establishing one or more committees delegating specified authority to a committee, and appointing or removing members of a committee. A committee will include two or more directors and may include persons who are not directors. If the Board delegates any of its management authority to a committee, the majority of the committee will consist of directors. The Board may also delegate to the president its power to appoint and remove members of a committee that has not been delegated any management authority of the Board. The Board may establish qualifications for membership on a committee. Establishing a committee or delegating authority to it will not relieve the Board, or any individual director, of any responsibility imposed by these Bylaws or otherwise imposed by law. No committee has the authority of the Board to:
(b) Adopt a plan of merger or of consolidation with another corporation.
(c) Authorize the sale, lease, exchange, or mortgage of all or substantially all of the Corporation’s property and assets.
(f) Adopt a plan for distributing the Corporation’s assets.
(g) Amend, alter, or repeal these Bylaws.
(h) Elect, appoint, or remove a member of a committee or a director or officer of the Corporation.
(i) Approve any transaction to which the Corporation is a party and that involves a potential conflict of interest as defined in paragraph 7.04, below.
(j) Take any action outside the scope of authority delegated to it by the Board.
Authorization of Specific Committees
6.02 The following committees are authorized: Membership, Nominating and Program Committees. The Board will define the activities and scope of authority of each committee by resolution.
Term of Office
6.03 Each committee member will continue to serve on the committee until the next annual members’ meeting and until a successor is appointed. However, a committee member’s term may terminate earlier if the committee is terminated, or if the member dies, ceases to qualify, resigns, or is removed as a member. A vacancy on a committee may be filled by an appointment made in the same manner as an original appointment. A person appointed to fill a vacancy on a committee will serve for the unexpired portion of the terminated committee member’s term.
Chair and Vice-Chair
6.04 One member of each committee will be designated as the committee chair, and another member of each committee will be designated as the vice-chair. The chair and vice-chair will be appointed by the president. The chair will call and preside at all meetings of the committee. When the chair is absent, cannot act, or refuses to act, the vice-chair will perform the chair’s duties. When a vice-chair acts for the chair, the vice-chair has all the powers of–and is subject to all the restrictions on–the chair.
6.05 Written or printed notice of a committee meeting will be delivered to each member of a committee not less than seven nor more than 30 days before the date of the meeting. The notice will state the place, day, and time of the meeting, and the purpose or purposes for which it is called.
6.06 One-half of the number of committee members constitutes a quorum for transacting business at any meeting of the committee. The committee members present at a duly called or held meeting at which a quorum is present may continue to transact business even if enough committee members leave the meeting so that less than a quorum remains. However, no action may be approved without the vote of at least a majority of the number of committee members required for a quorum. If a quorum is never present at any time during a meeting, the chair may adjourn and reconvene the meeting once without further notice.
Actions of Committees
6.07 Committees will try to take action by consensus. However, if a consensus is not available, the vote of a majority of committee members present and voting at a meeting at which a quorum is present is enough to constitute the act of the committee unless the act of a greater number is required by statute or by some other provision of these Bylaws. A committee member who is present at a meeting and abstains from a vote is not considered to be present and voting for the purpose of determining the act of the committee.
6.08 A committee member may not vote by proxy.
6.09 Committee members may not receive salaries for their services. The Board may adopt a resolution providing for paying committee members a sum for their expenses, if any, for attending each meeting of the committee. Any such expense payments that the Corporation pays to a committee member will be reasonable and commensurate with the expense incurred.
6.10 Each committee may adopt its own rules, consistent with these Bylaws or with other rules that may be adopted by the Board.
7.01 Contracts. The Board may authorize any officer or agent of the Corporation to enter into a contract or execute and deliver any instrument in the name of, and on behalf of, the Corporation. This authority may be limited to a specific contract or instrument, or it may extend to any number and type of possible contracts and instruments.
7.02 All the Corporation’s funds will be deposited to the credit of the Corporation in banks, trust companies, or other depositories that the Board selects.
7.03 The Board may accept, on the Corporation’s behalf, any contribution, gift, bequest, or devise for the general purposes or for any special purpose of the Corporation. The Board may make gifts and give charitable contributions not prohibited by these Bylaws, the articles of incorporation, state law, and provisions set out in federal tax law that must be complied with to maintain the Corporation’s federal and state tax status.
7.04 The Corporation may not make any loan to a director or officer of the Corporation. A member, director, officer, or committee member of the Corporation may lend money to–and otherwise transact business with–the Corporation except as otherwise provided by these Bylaws, the articles of incorporation, and applicable law. Such a person transacting business with the Corporation has the same rights and obligations relating to those matters as other persons transacting business with the Corporation. The Corporation may not borrow money from–or otherwise transact business with–a director, officer, or committee member of the Corporation unless the transaction is described fully in a legally binding instrument and is in the Corporation’s best interests. The Corporation may not borrow money from–or otherwise transact business with–a director, officer, or committee member of the Corporation without full disclosure of all relevant facts and without the Board’s or the members’ approval, not including the vote of any person having a personal interest in the transaction.
Prohibited Acts
7.05 As long as the Corporation exists, and except with the Board’s or the members’ prior approval, no member, director, officer, or committee member of the Corporation may:
(a) Do any act in violation of these Bylaws or a binding obligation of the Corporation.
(b) Do any act with the intention of harming the Corporation or any of its operations.
(c) Do any act that would make it impossible or unnecessarily difficult to carry on the Corporation’s intended or ordinary business.
(d) Receive an improper personal benefit from the operation of the Corporation.
(e) Use the Corporation’s assets, directly or indirectly, for any purpose other than carrying on the Corporation’s business.
(f) Wrongfully transfer or dispose of Corporation property, including intangible property such as good will.
(g) Use the Corporation’s name (or any substantially similar name) or any trademark or trade name adopted by the Corporation, except on behalf of the Corporation in the ordinary course of its business.
(h) Disclose any of the Corporation’s business practices, trade secrets, or any other information not generally known to the business community to any person not authorized to receive it.
Required Books and Records
8.01 The Corporation will keep correct and complete books and records including the following:
(a) A file-endorsed copy of all documents filed with the Texas Secretary of State relating to the Corporation, including but not limited to the articles of incorporation, and any articles of amendment, restated articles, articles of merger, articles of consolidation, and statement of change of registered office or registered agent.
(b) A copy of all bylaws, including these Bylaws, and any amended versions or amendments to them.
(c) Minutes of the proceedings of the members, Board, and committees having any of the authority of the Board.
(d) A list of the names and addresses of the members, directors, officers, and any committee members of the Corporation.
(e) A financial statement showing the Corporation’s assets, liabilities, and net worth at the end of the three most recent fiscal years.
(f) A financial statement showing the Corporation’s income and expenses for the three most recent fiscal years.
(g) All rulings, letters, and other documents relating to the Corporation’s federal, state, and local tax status.
(h) The Corporation’s federal, state, and local tax information or income-tax returns for each of the Corporation’s three most recent tax years.
Inspection and Copying
8.02 Any member, director, officer, or committee member of the Corporation may inspect and receive copies of all the corporate books and records required to be kept under the bylaws. Such a person may, by written request, inspect or receive copies if he or she has a proper purpose related to his or her interest in the Corporation. He or she may do so through his or her attorney or other duly authorized representative. The inspection may take place at a reasonable time, no later than five working days after the Corporation receives a proper written request. The Board may establish reasonable copying fees, which may cover the cost of materials and labor. The Corporation will provide requested copies of books or records no later than five working days after receiving a proper written request.
8.03 Any member may have an audit conducted of the Corporation’s books. That member bears the expense of the audit unless the members vote to authorize payment of audit expenses. The member requesting the audit may select the accounting firm to conduct it. A member may not exercise these rights so as to subject the Corporation to an audit more than once in any fiscal year.
The Corporation’s fiscal year of the Corporation will begin on the first day of January and end on the last day in December in each year.
When Indemnification Is Required, Permitted, and Prohibited
10.01 (a) The Corporation will indemnify a director, officer, member, committee member, employee, or agent of the Corporation who was, is, or may be named defendant or respondent in any proceeding as a result of his or her actions or omissions within the scope of his or her official capacity in the Corporation. For the purposes of this article, an agent includes one who is or was serving at the Corporation’s request as a director, officer, partner, venturer, proprietor, trustee, partnership, joint venture, sole proprietorship, trust, employee-benefit plan, or other enterprise.
(b) The Corporation will indemnify a person only if he or she acted in good faith and reasonably believed that his or her conduct was in the Corporation’s best interests. In case of a criminal proceeding, the person may be indemnified only if he or she had no reasonable cause to believe that the conduct was unlawful. The Corporation will not indemnify a person who is found liable to the Corporation or is found liable to another on the basis of improperly receiving a personal benefit from the Corporation. A person is conclusively considered to have been found liable in relation to any claim, issue, or matter if the person has been adjudged liable by a court of competent jurisdiction and all appeals have been exhausted. Termination of a proceeding by judgment, order, settlement, conviction, or on a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent does not necessarily preclude indemnification by the Corporation.
(c) The Corporation will pay or reimburse expenses incurred by a director, officer, member, committee member, employee, or agent of the Corporation in connection with the person’s appearance as a witness or other participation in a proceeding involving or affecting the Corporation when the person is not a named defendant or respondent in the proceeding.
(d) In addition to the situations otherwise described in this paragraph, the Corporation may indemnify a director, officer, member, committee member, employee, or agent of the Corporation to the extent permitted by law. However, the Corporation will not indemnify any person in any situation in which indemnification is prohibited by paragraph 10.01(a), above.
(e) The corporation may advance expenses incurred or to be incurred in the defense of a proceeding to a person who might be eventually be entitled to indemnification, even though there has been no final disposition of the proceeding. Advancement of expenses may occur only when the procedural conditions specified in paragraph 10.03(c), below, have been satisfied. Furthermore, the Corporation will never advance expenses to a person before final disposition of a proceeding if the person is a named defendant or respondent in an proceeding brought by the Corporation if the person is alleged to have improperly received a personal benefit or committed other wilful or intentional misconduct.
10.02 The indemnity permitted under these Bylaws includes indmenity against judgments, penalties, (including excise and similar taxes), fines, settlements, and reasonable expenses (including attorney’s fees) actually incurred in connection with the proceeding. If the proceeding was brought by or on behalf of the Corporation, the indemnification is limited to reasonable expenses actually incurred by the person in connection with the proceeding.
Procedures Relating to Indemnification Payments
10.03 (a) Before the Corporation may pay any indemnification expenses (including attorney’s fees), the Corporation must specifically determine that indemnification is permissible, authorize indemnification, and determine that expenses to be reimbursed are reasonable, except as provided in subparagraph (c), below. The Corporation may make these determinations and decisions by any one of the following procedures:
Majority vote of a quorum consisting of directors who, at the time of the vote, are not named defendants or respondents in the proceeding.
If such a quorum cannot be obtained, by a majority vote of a committee of the Board, designated to act in the matter by a majority vote of all directors, consisting solely of two or more directors who at the time of the vote are not named defendants or respondents in the proceeding.
Determination by special legal counsel selected by the Board by the same vote as provided in sub-subparagraphs (i) or (ii), above, or if such a quorum cannot be obtained and such a committee cannot be established, by a majority vote of all directors.
Majority vote of members, excluding directors or other members who are named defendants or respondents in the proceeding.
(b) The Corporation will authorize indemnification and determine that expenses to be reimbursed are reasonable in the same manner that it determines whether indemnification is permissible. If special legal counsel determines that indemnification is permissible, authorization of indemnification and determination of reasonableness of expenses will be made as specified by subparagraph (a)(iii), above, governing selection of special legal counsel. A provision contained in the articles of incorporation, or a resolution of members or the Board that requires the indemnification permitted by paragraph 10.01, above, constitutes sufficient authorization of indemnification even though the provision may not have been adopted or authorized in the same manner as the determination that indemnification is permissible.
(c) The Corporation will advance expenses before final disposition of a proceeding only after it determines that the facts then known would not preclude indemnification. The determination that the facts then known to those making the determination would not preclude indemnification and authorization of payment will be made in the same manner as a determination that indemnification is permissible under subparagraph (a), above. In addition to this determination, the Corporation may advance expenses only after it receives a written affirmation and undertaking from the person to receive the advance. The person’s written affirmation will state that he or she has met the standard of conduct necessary for indemnification under these Bylaws. The written undertaking will provide for repayment of the amounts advanced by the Corporation if it is ultimately determined that the person has not met the requirements for indemnification. The undertaking will be an unlimited general obligation of the person, but it need not be secured and may be accepted without reference to financial ability to repay.
(d) Any indemnification or advance of expenses will be reported in writing to the Corporation’s members. The report will be made with or before the notice or waiver of notice of the next membership meeting, or with or before the next submission to members of a consent to action without a meeting. In any case, the report will be sent within the 12-month period immediately following the date of the indemnification or advance.
11.01 Any notice required or permitted by these Bylaws to be given to a member, director, officer, or member of a committee of the Corporation may be given by mail or telegram. If mailed, a notice is deemed delivered when deposited in the mail addressed to the person at his or her address as it appears on the corporate records, with postage prepaid. If given by telegram, a notice is deemed delivered when accepted by the telegraph company and addressed to the person at his or her address as it appears on the corporate records. A person may change his or her address in the corporate records by giving written notice of the change to the secretary of the corporation.
Signed Waiver of Notice
11.02 Whenever any notice is required by law or under the articles of incorporation or these Bylaws, a written waiver signed by the person entitled to receive such notice is considered the equivalent to giving the required notice. A waiver of notice is effective whether signed before or after the time stated in the notice being waived.
Waiving Notice by Attendance
11.03 A person’s attendance at a meeting constitutes waiver of notice of the meeting unless the person attends for the express purpose of objecting to the transaction of any business because the meeting was not lawfully called or convened.
Meeting by Telephone
12.01 The members, Board of Directors, and any committee of the Corporation may hold a meeting by telephone conference-call procedures. In all meetings held by telephone, matters must be arranged in such a manner that all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other; the notice of a meeting by telephone conference must state the fact that the meeting will be held by telephone as well as all other matters required to be included in the notice; and a person’s participating in a conference-call meeting constitutes his or her presence at the meeting.
12.02 Any decision required or permitted to be made at a meeting of the members, Board, or any committee of the Corporation may be made without a meeting. A decision without a meeting may be made if a written consent to the decision is signed by all the persons entitled to vote on the matter. The original signed consents will be placed in the Corporation minute book and kept with the corporate records.
12.03 No proxy voting is permitted.
These Bylaws may be altered, amended, or repealed, and new bylaws may be adopted by the Board of Directors. The notice of any meeting at which these Bylaws are altered, amended, or repealed, or at which new bylaws are adopted will include the text of the proposed bylaw provisions as well as the text of any existing provisions proposed to be altered, amended, or repealed. Alternatively, the notice may include a fair summary of those provisions.
Legal Authorities Governing Construction of Bylaws
14.01 These Bylaws will be construed under Texas law. All references in these Bylaws to statutes, regulations, or other sources of legal authority will refer to the authorities cited, or their successors, as they may be amended from time to time.
Legal Construction
14.02 To the greatest extent possible, these Bylaws shall be construed to conform to all legal requirements and all requirements for obtaining and maintaining all tax exemptions that may be available to nonprofit corporations. If any bylaw provision is held invalid, illegal, or unenforceable in any respect, the invalidity, illegality, or unenforceability will not affect any other provision, and the bylaws will be construed as if they had not included the invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provision.
14.04 Singular words include the plural, and all plural words include the singular.
14.05 The Board of Directors may provide for a corporate seal. Such a seal would consist of two concentric circles containing the words “LONE STAR ANTIQUE TRACTOR & ENGINE ASSOCIATION, INC.”, in one circle and the word “Texas Non-Profit Corporation,” together with the date of incorporation in the other circle.
Power of Attorney
14.06 A person may execute any instrument related to the Corporation by means of a power of attorney if an original executed copy of the power of attorney is provided to the secretary to be kept with the corporate records.
14.07 The bylaws will bind and inure to the benefit of the members, directors, officers, committee members, employees, and agents of the Corporation and their respective heirs, executors, administrators, legal representatives, successors, and assigns except as the bylaws otherwise provide.
I certify that I am the duly elected secretary of “LONE STAR ANTIQUE TRACTOR & ENGINE ASSOCIATION, INC.”, A Texas Non-Profit Corporation, and that these Bylaws constitute the Corporation’s Bylaws. These Bylaws were duly amended at a meeting of the Board of Directors held on 2 June 2011.
| 48,649 |
It is something no one should ever have to hear about their not yet 7-year-old dog. I froze and my mind went whirling, I suddenly found it difficult to get out all of the questions that were racing through my head. As my Uber driver was pulling into Los Angeles Airport, I was talking to Kim on the phone, she was back home in Canada. In my absence, Kim had taken my Border Collie, Swagger, to a vet appointment for me. It was kind of a precautionary visit that I had requested because of a slight “concern” I had… a weird vibe that I got when Swagger was running full out.
It has now been 7 months since Swag had surgery for Medial Shoulder Instability. I had been more patient than Swagger with the long rehab process. I wanted to give him the best chance possible to come back to agility stronger than ever. And that he did. His times were amazing when I worked him just last week. His turns tight… he had come back his same powerful, agility-self. We were now 9 weeks away from our Canadian World team tryouts, and I was flying high with anticipation based on how good Swagger had been looking in training.
All that changed with one phone call as Kim reported that the cardiologist was shocked to discover Swagger has Dilated Cardiomyopathy.
My sadness isn’t over the realization that we will never again compete as a team in agility. Nor is it from the immediate restriction of all of Swagger’s activities. No more flat-out running with the other dogs or any other activity that may cause him to want to give a sudden explosive burst of energy (if you know Swagger that basically means most everything he does).
But my sadness does not come from that. It comes from the unknown.
The question of “how long does he have?” is all I wanted to know… but of course, no one can know for sure. Dilated Cardiomyopathy is a disease that breaks the hearts of Doberman Pinscher owners on a regular basis however as the cardiologist shared, it is rare in Border Collies. She herself had never seen it in a Border Collie in her practice. That gave me some comfort. Because it is so rare his prognosis is less known… which immediately gave me reason to be more optimistic.
I’m sharing this news today for several reasons. I’m hopeful this blog post will be shared far and wide and that someone reading it, or referring it to a friend, maybe someone familiar with this condition in Border Collies. I want to search every corner of the world and review every strategy, feeding regime or supplement possibility. I’d especially love to talk to any cardiologists who has worked with Border Collies with this condition.
I’m also writing to ask you all to keep Swagger in your prayers.
But what motivated me to write immediately was to share early diagnosis has potentially saved Swagger’s life. If I had continued to work his heart to the max, it could have eventually just given out. By following up on my hunch I have given him the best chance at the longest life possible. I think the key take away is; know your dog. Know what “normal” should be in every situation. Working, running, sleeping, breathing. Record keep times in training…not just looking at ‘course times’ but know how fast your dog should be…do your dog’s time get significantly get faster or slower after a rest and repeat. If your dog starts to do things he normally doesn’t, like drinking more, sleeping more, moving differently, take note. Don’t just assume these little things are normal signs of ageing …check things out. Trust your gut instinct.
There were several little things that Swagger has shown me starting late last fall that were “different”. All of these little things added up so that two weeks ago, I requested Swagger see a cardiologist before I continued with my plans for his return to agility. I was told the wait for an appointment would be a long because Swagger was, by all appearances, a normal, healthy dog, and it was difficult to see a cardiologist unless the situation was more serious.
As luck would have it, last week we got a call that there was a cancellation so Swagger could be seen earlier than planned. Since I was going to be in L.A. on business, Kim would take him. Which brings us up to my telephone call at LAX.
Yes, this sucks.
The nice thing about being in Los Angeles airport when you get this kind of news is that no one looks at you weird because you are sitting alone on a bench sobbing. Actually, all of the attention was diverted to what appeared to be a homeless man, who was hanging out two benches over randomly shouting out “My kitty is a good kitty…” and “The Po-lice can’t get me…” followed up by “I love dat kitty!” over and over and over.
I admit I did sit there stunned and crying for a bit before I walked off, leaving the wailing-cat-lover behind in order to check in early for my flight and start to formulate a plan for Swagger.
I’m a big believer that life happens for us, not to us.
When the highs in life with a dog are super high, the trade-off is that the lows are going to be like a massive kick in the guts. The thing is Swagger is still his same happy, kooky handsome self. Yes, I needed to grieve what I believe we’ve lost, an amazing partnership in the agility ring with a dog that I adore. However, agility is a sport we play and, as much as we both love it, everyday life with a dog that you love transcends any sport. There is no need to be morose now.
Feeling sad comes from focusing on the future rather than the present. Thinking of the future will create anxiety as I’m left thinking “but he is barely 8 years old” and other thoughts that serve no other purpose than to take me to a very dark place. Thinking of the past will bring me to a similar place resulting in me once again, feeling sorry for myself and all that Swagger has been robbed of at such a young age.
Focusing on the past or the future can’t change this diagnosis, and can’t make Swagger’s life the best it can possibly be, but acting in the present can. So I’m going to use any sign of sadness I feel as a trigger to get my head back to the present and take action on the things within my control…like writing this blog post looking for help for Swag.
Swagger loves to work. Luckily for me, he also loves to watch other dogs work. So he will be able to come to the building every day to watch me training Momentum, then he will get some low impact, low energy work to keep him physically fit and mentally happy. He will need all of that and more to replace the hours he spent running, jumping and swimming as a part of his every week routine.
Enter games of mental stimulation and low-level exercise.
Before my flight took off for Toronto I had already contacted Jane Book, a long time friend and student who also happens to be an expert at Nose Work and Tracking. She is both a judge and seminar presenter… and it just so happens she too loves Swagger. So yesterday Jane gave Swag and I a private session officially starting our new hobby of nose work. We played around with it a bit after his surgery last summer…and it seems he remembered a LOT!
Currently, Swagger has been put on a couple of heart meds and a healthy dose of Taurine (an amino acid), which in rare cases, has been shown to reverse this condition. Hope certainly does springs eternal here in Alberton, Ontario, Canada.
Today I am grateful for Swagger’s early diagnosis. No more sadness, time to celebrate every single day we get to have together from this day forward.
Melinda Griffin February 1, 2018 at 5:51 AM - Reply
So sorry yet optimistic for your future with Swagger. Hugs to you and yours.
Rose Bate January 31, 2018 at 2:47 PM - Reply
I have had 2 Springer Spaniels with DCM. One diagnosed at 3years & one at 18 months. As a vet I panicked. At the time average expectation of life was 6 weeks in the Dobermann & 2 years in Cocker Spaniels. The treatment changed between the 2 dogs diagnosis & has moved on since. The first Spaniel was 13 years & the second was 10 years when their hearts failed, so try not to panic
Elle McKay January 31, 2018 at 7:40 AM - Reply
Our Australian expert is [email protected]
Elle McKay February 3, 2018 at 8:07 AM - Reply
Thought this article might be interesting
Carol January 29, 2018 at 4:30 PM - Reply
Swagger is the journey and we get the dog we need…not always the dog we want. You never know, Swagger could be “that” dog that is able to pull through with greatness. Only more testing will tell. He has such a good mommy and support team and I believe in miracles!
Ana @ HappyJackRussell January 29, 2018 at 8:28 AM - Reply
Sorry to hear about Swaggers health problems. Good call on following your instincts. Kala and I hope that everything’ll turn out all right in the end. Hang in there.
Lynne B January 29, 2018 at 6:18 AM - Reply
If prayers are enough, Swagger will have millions! Sharing your pain…
Tonya January 29, 2018 at 2:06 AM - Reply
I am thinking of Swagger and Da Mama. We are hoping Swagger will live a long life in spite of his heart condition. Hugs to sweet boy.
Sabine January 28, 2018 at 6:21 AM - Reply
I’m so sorry to hear the news about Swagger. I am sure you will do everything, so that he can live a long, happy life.
If you didnt already find out during your research: The disease is also very common in Great Danes, and here in Germany we have some phantastic vets that have been studying DCM (in Great Danes, but also in Doberman Pinschers) for a long time. Maybe you or your vet want to contact Dr. Kresken from Tierklinik Kaiserberg, just to exchange information, get a second opinion on Swaggers perspectives, or just to hear his thoughts.
Sending lots of hugs to you and Swagger!
Cathy January 27, 2018 at 6:46 PM - Reply
Prayers are with you and Swagger. Thank you for sharing. Please keep us posted on your journey through this.
Melissa January 27, 2018 at 12:20 PM - Reply
My hat is off to Kim. What a treasure she is. To have been the point person in this process has to have been a seriously difficult job. So grateful that she is there for Susan and Swagger.
Melissa January 26, 2018 at 11:23 PM - Reply
Such sad news. You and Swagger have so very many people, all over the world, who love you and send you the best thoughts.
Susan January 26, 2018 at 10:50 PM - Reply
Susan, I am so sorry to hear this news about Swagger. I’ve watched him grow up with you from that cute little singleton puppy to the amazing agility star and family member that he is now. I was just watching his antics last night in your new blind cross videos. It’s clear Swagger truly enjoys life no matter what he is doing,even if it’s just being a spectator! I hope you are able to find some answers to your questions about treatment. But mostly, I wish for you and Swagger many more years together.
Barbara Novak January 26, 2018 at 5:14 PM - Reply
I have Dobermans so I am well aware of this disease. Didn’t even know it could be an issue with BC’s. Most of my fellow Dobe owners medicate, supplement and let their dogs be dogs for as long as they have. I love your attitude. BTW, Nosework is awesome. Healing thoughts being sent Swagger’s way.
Marjorie January 26, 2018 at 11:28 AM - Reply
Swagger and Susan. Sending hugs your way. You both have that personality that says we ant beat we gonna fight this and have fun all the way. Love to you both.
Cheryl January 25, 2018 at 8:26 PM - Reply
Susan- Dpca has been funding a study on stem cells to treat disease. You can find info on their website Early results have been very promising.
Barbara Sevier January 25, 2018 at 10:47 AM - Reply
Susan Nichols’ suggestion to contact Dr. Josh Stein at UC Davis is perfect, if you haven’t already done so. He has been a beacon of light to many Golden retriever owners. DCM has been turned around in some cases.
Betsy Browder January 25, 2018 at 10:21 AM - Reply
You continue to be an incredible inspiration, and you touch my heart and soul. What you give to your dogs and to those of us that are a part of your Say Yes family is so huge that it defies words. I could say much more about how much I appreciate your influence in my life, but I will close by thanking you and holding you close to my heart as you continue to lead by example, hard work, dedication and LOVE!
Barb Baron January 25, 2018 at 9:27 PM - Reply
Susan this news made me sad . My prayers go out to you and prayers for handsome Swagger. Having such a positive attitude will help on a daily basis! I know your dogs are your family as are mine and when they hurt we hurt. There are so many of us that have never even met you that feel a strong family connection to you, your dogs and the entire Say Yes team through your generous sharing of Your Dog training knowledge. If there was a way I could make this go away for you I would do it in an instant.
Hugs and
Lesley January 24, 2018 at 10:53 PM - Reply
Your courage and determination to do everything you can to help Swagger brought me to tears for you and for him. Your massive worldwide network will give you a huge chance to find what you need to help him through this devastating condition. All of us who love our dogs will take more particular notice of the little things – so thats one tiny positive. Swagger’s life will be different good, and while I give my dogs the best of everything my attention to all things concerning their livelihood will be more intent with the reinforced knowledge that gut feelings are not to be ignored. Blessings to you both and wishing you the best of outcomes. xxx
MaryVW January 24, 2018 at 10:22 PM - Reply
Your post about Swagger’s DCM had me on an emotional roller coaster (as one poster wrote we have known him and followed his antics since he was born!) At first the roller coaster had me heading downward fast….and then after continuing to read……hopeful. Hopeful for the very best outcome possible for you and Swagger.
Annette January 24, 2018 at 10:06 PM - Reply
Heart issues are very common in Poms, and yes the ones I had trialed. We have found that it is late onset, usually as 7 when it starts. If you start him in meds right away, he can live long healthy life. My Poms that we’re put on meds early (at 7) lived to we almost 15. I kept them lean and well excercised. Think of it this way, let him live life the way he wants, he will be happier and stronger. Let him run trials occasionally, just not push him like you would. I cannot stress enough, Starting meds asap is the key. If you would like to ask me any questions, please do not hesitate.
Diane Thompson January 24, 2018 at 8:39 PM - Reply
I’m so sorry to read about swagger. I had a Rottweiler that was diagnosed with CM at 20 months old. It ended her schutzhund career. But With daily enecard & CQ10 she had a successful Rally & tracking career and live a fun filled life. My vet said since it was caught early don’t treat her like a China doll. We didn’t. She lived til 12 yrs. old. Have faith in meds, your vet, look at every day as a gift. Hope Swagger has many more healthy years.
Norma Nelson January 24, 2018 at 10:41 AM - Reply
I am so sorry for what is happening to you and Swagger. But, life is a crap shoot and we must deal with what gets dealt. Knowing your work ethic, Swagger will be introduced to such wonderful activities that you will make fun and enjoyable for the both of you.
My thoughts and prayers are with you .
Marie January 24, 2018 at 8:35 AM - Reply
Susan I am stunned and shocked to to read this sad news. Your positive attitude is truly inspirational he is so lucky to have you by his side. Thankfully catching it early will give him a full life with new activities that you will both enjoy together. I have loved following all the training you do and watched him grow into a beautiful stunning boy. You, Swagger and your family are in my thoughts and prayers, thank you for sharing such an emotional post. xx
Helen January 24, 2018 at 4:57 AM - Reply
So sorry about your devastating news about Swagger, really surprised his condition was not picked up earlier at his surgery but as you say it is there.
Peter January 24, 2018 at 12:51 AM - Reply
It is sad what activities are lost or restricted now. You will still enjoy each day with him. In the end you will remember his backwards glance when he is ahead. His playful leaning on you. Cueing you to fill the water bowl. The agility courses will seem less important but you will remember the unusual. I remember when the middle of the dog walk bridge blew off in the wind with Buster on top of it even though he wasn’t hurt. He had 9 years post injury without agility. I am glad for every day I had with him. I had heart failure 2 years ago and nearly died. I am one of the few who made a good recovery. Maybe Swagger can get better too. My thoughts are with you both.
Lynn January 23, 2018 at 11:50 PM - Reply
I’m so sorry to read about Swagger (on FB – shared by Sharon Nelson). I want to tell you about my border collie who was given to me when he was 5-½ years old. Shortly after he came into my home, he became very ill, so I took him to Angell Memorial in Boston. They diagnosed endocarditis, with bacterial damage to one of his heart valves — the bacteria had put a hole in the valve flap. They treated him with the “gold standard” antibiotics and kept him in their care for about 6 weeks. When it was time for me to bring him home, they told me that the hole in his heart valve will never close and that eventually his heart will be compromised to the point where it will give out. They would not let me leave without being sure I understood that he would likely live no longer than 8 months, but that if he was still living at 6 months, I should bring him back for a check. It was a sad drive home and his prognosis was so dire that I decided I was not going to curtail his activities (I was not training him anything close to the level you have Swagger), because if he was going to die soon anyway, I wanted it to be while he was doing what he loved. I did contact a homeopathic veterinarian who, after a phone consultation, sent me a “remedy” that I wasn’t sure I believed in, but I decided it wouldn’t hurt him. At 6 months I took him back to Angell Memorial and the cardiologist was amazed that his heart showed no sign of being compromised — the hole was still there (I saw it in the ultrasound), and we lamented that valve-replacement was not available for dogs, and so the expectation was that, at some point, his heart would eventually give out. I stopped agility with him because he was otherwise not sound enough to continue that, but we continued to play lots of games that he loved. Right how, eight years later, he is comfortably lying at my feet while I type this to you.
I learn a lot from every dog who comes into my life. From him, I learned that there’s much more to “life” and living than diagnoses and limitations. I have no doubt that the antibiotics saved his life, but I also have no doubt that his “heart” was just too big to be bothered by that hole.
It sounds like you and Swagger will have a great time together for as long as he has — and I’m hoping it’s a long time.
Lorry Minor January 23, 2018 at 7:23 PM - Reply
Susan. I’m so sorry. My doberman was diagnosed age 8. We went to 2 cardiologist. Started all meds. Went to 2014 akc agility at Westminster and ten days later she stood up at midnight out of a cold sleep and dropped dead. I’m so thankful we continued to do agility together as i know now even from a deep sleep they can go anytime. Will hope more border collie genes trump all and thanks for sharing.
Paula January 23, 2018 at 2:12 PM - Reply
Hi Susan, I feel your pain. My 2 year old was diagnosed with MMM recently. I just enjoy every day with him. My border collies love Nosework. I think you and Swagger will love it too!! It is amazing to watch their natural talent. We will be praying for you guys.
Rosalyn Russell January 23, 2018 at 1:51 PM - Reply
Your story resonates with me as I, too, have a border collie with a heart condition. My Mojo was born with Ventricular Septal Defect-a hole in the heart wall between both chambers- grade 5/6. He was diagnosed at 12 weeks, with a grim prognosis. At age 9 months, it was discovered he also had an enlarged heart, too. 2 years life expectancy. Mojo will turn 5 in June.
When I was told of his condition, my mind went every where… how long will I have him? What will his quality of life be? What if he dies while playing? Of those 3, I can control 1- quality of life.
Mojo is everything that’s amazing about border collies, and everything that drives you nuts. High drive, high energy, crazy stupid herding drive, and a natural runner. How would I protect him from who he truly is?
The answer for me was simple: He had to be the dog he was born to be. Having him ‘wrapped in bubble wrap’ would be the worst possible thing for him. So I made the conscious effort to let him be HIM (all in moderation).
He plays disc, swims, has herded a few sheep, and plays flyball part time- all under a watchful eye, and within reason.
In his 2 year old echo, the cardiologist told me I should change his name to Clark Kent. I didn’t make the connect and asked why. ‘Because he’s Superman’. His heart had reduced in size, and he was thriving. Appropriate exercise and a great diet part of the reason. The biggest reason? He was happy. He was being himself.
But I do know he is living the life he was meant to. And I will always find peace and joy in that.
Why am I writing this? Because your dear Swagger is the same. This is simply a new chapter in his remarkable life. He gets to do other things he was meant to do. He gets to be himself. And he still has a meaningful, purposeful life with you at the center.
You have asked all the right questions with amazing answers. I wish you and Swagger nothing but the best and will continue to follow his progress as the next chapter begins.
Rosalyn and Mojo
Leah January 23, 2018 at 1:32 PM - Reply
Wow, just wow. I have no words, except that is one of the bravest posts I have ever read. You find the positive, and seek answers. You and Swagger will handle this with the world by your side. There is an army of support on here. I have followed Swagger since the beginning of Puppy Peaks, and I enjoy everything you do!! You got this!!
Linda Nichols January 23, 2018 at 1:02 PM - Reply
I’m very sorry Swagger and you are going through this. There is a study being done by UC Davis (Dr. Joshua Stern). It’s related to DCM in Goldens linked to low taurine levels. They believe it is because of too much pea protein. You probably feed raw but it might not hurt talking to him.
Stephanie Burns January 23, 2018 at 11:19 AM - Reply
Susan – I’m so glad you listened to your gut about Swagger not being his normal self. You and Swagger will love nose work! Give Swagger a big hug from me and all his fans.
Elaine January 23, 2018 at 10:25 AM - Reply
I am on my SECOND BC with Dilated Cardiomyopathy – and both returned to agility at full speed! Find the source – sometimes a tick-borne disease can cause it and that can be treated and the DCM basically goes away. With my 2nd dog that has it, she is still competing and was diagnosed at 4.5. We took time off to balance everything- about a year as she also has liver issues. Heart meds and supplements and love. Good luck!
Yanna January 23, 2018 at 10:03 AM - Reply
Susan, I am so sorry to hear this about Swagger.Following you and Swagger since Puppy Peaks, it breaks my heart. But I understand how you feel I was in the similar situation 6 years ago. We joined Puppy Peaks but after two months our vets said that my sweet 6 months puppy has only 1-2 years. Thanks God that he is still with me. If I can give you advice, don’t look back or to the future. Look at him now, make a plan a enjoy every second with him. I know that you find other way how to improve his life God bless you and we pray for you both. I will share your blog on my FB and hope that someone could send you more to Swagger’s diagnosis.
Bridget Bodine January 23, 2018 at 9:49 AM - Reply
I do know that some dog foods lack taurine and Golden Retrievers and English Setters and I am sure others get cardiac issues because of it. https://caninelifetimehealth.org/…/researchers-getting…/
Researchers getting closer to understanding dietary taurine and heart…
Betty January 23, 2018 at 9:42 AM - Reply
Bunches of hugs and prayers for Swagger and you. Once again you inspire me by putting the focus on having a plan to seek knowledge and to focus on the day in front of us.
Lynn M January 23, 2018 at 9:17 AM - Reply
Stunned at the news about Swagger,taking the positives from your post,you’ got an early diagnosis,and you will make his life fun and the best,I loved his scentwork,taking a different road,but with your fantastic positive outlook I know you will both enjoy it. Thinking of you x
Narelle January 23, 2018 at 5:57 AM - Reply
Hi Susan. I have read your story and have complete empathy with you
I have a seven year old cocker spaniel who was diagnosed in September 2017 with the same heart condition. (We live in Australia)
Like you, we were shattered, as we seemed to have an incredibly healthy dog, who had boundless energy and seemed so full of life. He is on heart medication for the rest of his life (we were told about 2 years). I also give him Taurine 3 times a day. Charlie is a delightful boy and it so sad to think that he may not see his 10th birthday !!
We live each day filled with as much fun and good things as we can. We go to dog training each week, which he loves and walks each day.
You just never know what cards you are dealt. We cherish each day.
Good luck to you both
Carol Bentley January 23, 2018 at 5:49 AM - Reply
So sorry Susan, especially so soon after losing Decaf. I do hope our Professor Noel Fitzpatrick is able to offer some good advice or contacts to help Swagger. (A fellow Brit had passed contact info to LOH).
Meantime, maybe Rally-O is another low impact sport you & Swagger might enjoy.
Liz Mitchell January 23, 2018 at 5:06 AM - Reply
I am so sorry Susan. Nosework sounds an excellant way of keeping Swagger happy and entertained, and it can really tire a dog out.
Never give up though. My Staffie collapsed at agiity almost exactly a year ago. After some tests, she was diagnosed with cancer of the spleen and given a few weeks to live. She is still here, ruling the house and still having fun on her walks. She may even make her 14th birthday at the start of April.
Love to you and Swagger.
Patti Stern January 23, 2018 at 3:27 AM - Reply
Hi Susan, sorry to hear about Swagger! He is an outstanding dog, and you are blessed to have him and he to have you. Your instincts were right on, and I know you will do the best for him. Nosework is a great sport too, my dog Coop does agility and nosework, and he enjoys both. Nosework gives your dog a great workout, so take it slow too. Coop does a class for 2 hours, with 7 other dogs, and when we get home he is tired. My prayers are with you both, I know how I would feel if this about my dog. You are a strong and caring dog owner, and I know Swagger is in the very best of hands. Take care, and hoping the Meds help him, and he lives out his golden years as a happy dog. All our love to you and Swagger. Your student PAtti and Cooper.
francisca mcdonald January 23, 2018 at 3:22 AM - Reply
My heart goes out to you Susan as you deal with this knowledge about the one and only Swagger……….. You have taught and continue to teach us all on so many levels. Coaching, Dog training, Agility and Life Skills as hard as it is I believe this is putting you on another journey for whatever reason it maybe. As hard as it is, I know in my heart of hearts you and Swagger will take this to a whole new level. (((Hugs))) my friend. Love from Brent and I xxxxx
Becky January 23, 2018 at 2:54 AM - Reply
I don’t know you, or Swagger, but as a life long border collie lover, and owner of a border collie service puppy in training, my heart goes out to you. My baby, Kai, means the world to me, they form such strong attachment to their person.
But as a rescuer, cat and dog, of twenty+ years, please keep in mind that no matter where this leads, you’ve given Swagger something priceless.. you. Regardless of our time on this planet, we have the choice to go for quality or quantity. Ideally, we get both, but the quality is always going to outweigh the rest. That quality is something he may not have found elsewhere, and YOU gave it to him, and are continuing to do so. Own that in those scary moments, because you made a HUGE difference in the life of another being. . And who can really ask for more than that?
Sending you, Swagger, and all of your loved ones positive energy, white healing light, and the wish that we can all make such a difference. (((Hugs))) from Kai and I, and he’s a great hugger
Carolyn Clark January 23, 2018 at 2:23 AM - Reply
Thinking of you and Swagger, Susan, and appreciating your acceptance and redirection of focus. For you and Swagger . I think he is lucky to have you. Nose work will be a fine new “career”.
Maggie Eslinger January 23, 2018 at 2:21 AM - Reply
I am saddened by the news about Swagger, but you always said you wanted to get back into the Obedience ring one day. Maybe this presents this opportunity if you think obedience would be less impact? We will keep you & Swagger in our thoughts and prayers. I will also follow any info you share as we have a half sister to him (Via Excel). Thank you for always sharing the good, the bad and the ugly. It is one of your best traits. So many learn so much from you because you do. & For Swagger & you.
Vickie January 23, 2018 at 2:19 AM - Reply
may I use your sentence about feeling sad is when you are focusing on the future? so profound. Swagger and his pack are in my thots and prayers. I’ve so enjoyed his journey with you.
Didie01 January 23, 2018 at 2:15 AM - Reply
So very sorry to hear, sending you both all best thoughts and prayers. Also, appreciate reading your emotive post. I know the feeling; My best dog has just ruptured her ACL, 6 yrs 8mths, I had her entered in so many upcoming big events including Agility Nationals with a big road trip over 4 weeks. Devastating and gut wrenching. However She has not had such a bad diagnosis as Swagger, I very much feel for you. I hope to be able to continue Tracking at least when rehab is complete. It’s a wonderful sport for dogs, and can be done at walking pace.
Didie01 January 23, 2018 at 2:15 AM - Reply
So very sorry to hear, sending you both all best thoughts and prayers. Also, appreciate reading your emotive post. I know the feeling; My best dog has just ruptured her ACL, 6 yrs 8mths, I had her entered in so many upcoming big events including Agility Nationals with a big road trip over 4 weeks. Devastating and gut wrenching. However She has not had such a bad diagnosis as Swagger, I very much feel for you. I hope to be able to continue Tracking at least when rehab is complete. It’s a wonderful sport for dogs, and can be done at walking pace.
Debra, Snap & Puff January 23, 2018 at 2:11 AM - Reply
Susan, I saw this post this morning as I was getting ready for training. I couldn’t read it when I saw Swagger and dilated Cardiomyopathy. I wanted to have some time to fully read your post. First, I am so truly sorry. Following you and Swagger since Puppy Peaks, it breaks my heart. I know you have a lot of super love and support near you. Just know this Arizona girl hugs you in my heart.
I am so happy you caught this early and I feel Swagger is going to have a full life. It may not be what you strived for, but another bend around the river to a new and exciting journey together.
Nose work is awesome. You know Snap and Puff are certified search dogs now. I love nose work. You will love watching the change in behavior when Swagger is in scent and just watching them think and work gives me goose bumps.
Onward and Upward… I will share your blog on my FB. Hopefully someone will have some insight for you. God bless
Jamee January 23, 2018 at 1:42 AM - Reply
Susan I am so sorry to hear this about Swagger. I will definitely keep you both in my prayers. Hopefully you’ll get some information and good treatment options from someone. I’ll share your post as I have a friend who’s Labrador sees a cardiologist in PA. Maybe they’ll have some information for you. God bless
Previous 1 2 3 4 5 Next
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
Δ
Ebook Learning!
Want to get the most out of your next dog training class or lesson? Susan's ebook "On Being a Good Student" will help you make that happen! This downloadable ebook can not be purchased anywhere and is exclusively available to subscribers of Susan's Newsletter.
This downloadable ebook is only shared here on Susan’s blog and is exclusively available to subscribers of Susan's Newsletter.
Donna on Cookies Anyone?
Pam Johnson on How to Travel with Pets (Featured on Trivago Podcast)
LeaAnne on How to Train Your Dog to Stand on Cue
Archives Select Month October 2022 September 2021 August 2021 June 2021 February 2021 January 2021 November 2020 October 2020 September 2020 August 2020 July 2020 June 2020 May 2020 April 2020 March 2020 February 2020 January 2020 November 2019 October 2019 September 2019 August 2019 July 2019 June 2019 May 2019 April 2019 March 2019 February 2019 January 2019 December 2018 November 2018 October 2018 September 2018 August 2018 July 2018 June 2018 May 2018 March 2018 February 2018 January 2018 November 2017 August 2017 June 2017 May 2017 January 2017 October 2016 September 2016 July 2016 June 2016 May 2016 March 2016 February 2016 January 2016 December 2015 November 2015 August 2015 July 2015 June 2015 May 2015 April 2015 March 2015 January 2015 December 2014 November 2014 June 2014 May 2014 April 2014 February 2014 January 2014 December 2013 November 2013 September 2013 August 2013 July 2013 May 2013 March 2013 February 2013 December 2012 November 2012 October 2012 September 2012 August 2012 July 2012 June 2012 May 2012 April 2012 March 2012 February 2012 January 2012 December 2011 November 2011 October 2011 September 2011 August 2011 July 2011 June 2011 May 2011 April 2011 March 2011 February 2011 January 2011 December 2010 November 2010 October 2010 September 2010 August 2010 July 2010 June 2010 May 2010 April 2010 March 2010 February 2010 January 2010 December 2009 November 2009 October 2009 September 2009 August 2009 July 2009 June 2009 May 2009 April 2009 March 2009 February 2009 January 2009 December 2008 November 2008
agility agility handling agility tips agility training Buzz contact training crate games criteria DeCaff dog agility dog agility handling dog agility transformation dog stories dog training dog training videos Encore fci world championships Feature Fitness goal setting gratitude h360 handling Handling360 Mental Prep positive dog training punishment puppies puppy camp Puppy Peaks puppy training recallers recalls recall training reinforcement reinforcement based training say yes dog training shaping success Susan Garrett Swagger tugging video contest vote voting
Educating worldwide for over 20 years to create better lives for dogs and the people who love them.
Pet Dog Training
Agility Training
Next Level Dog Training
Company
Careers
Terms of Service
Copyright © Susan Garrett and Say Yes Dog Training Inc / Terms of Service / Privacy Policy
88%
Yes, I want to receive the Newsletters and the eBook!
Step 1: In order to help us best serve your needs choose the dog training experience that applies to you:
I am brand new to dog ownership! This is my first puppy/rescue dog.
I am a crossover trainer, looking to learn how to train without verbal / physical corrections and learn to more about positive training.
I am keen to learn more about dog agility.
99%
Yes, I want to receive Say Yes Newsletters and the eBook!
Step 2: Please provide your email address:
YES! I want to receive my eBook.
Privacy Policy: By submitting this form, you are agreeing to receive messages from Susan Garrett & Say Yes Dog Training. Your email address will not be shared or sold. You are always free to easily unsubscribe at any time.
99%
Yes, I want to receive Say Yes Newsletters and the eBook!
Step 2: Please provide your email address:
YES! I want to receive my eBook.
Privacy Policy: By submitting this form, you are agreeing to receive messages from Susan Garrett & Say Yes Dog Training. Your email address will not be shared or sold. You are always free to easily unsubscribe at any time.
99%
Yes, I want to receive Say Yes Newsletters and the eBook!
Step 2: Please provide your email address:
YES! I want to receive my eBook.
Privacy Policy: By submitting this form, you are agreeing to receive messages from Susan Garrett & Say Yes Dog Training. Your email address will not be shared or sold. You are always free to easily unsubscribe at any time.
99%
Yes, I want to receive Say Yes Newsletters and the eBook!
Step 2: Please provide your email address:
YES! I want to receive my eBook.
Privacy Policy: By submitting this form, you are agreeing to receive messages from Susan Garrett & Say Yes Dog Training. Your email address will not be shared or sold. You are always free to easily unsubscribe at any time.
88%
Step 1: In order to help us best serve your needs choose the dog training experience that applies to you:
I am a total beginner, this is all new to me!
My past dogs have turned out great, but my current one is seriously challenging me.
I do use some physical punishment where I feel appropriate.
I'm successfully training in a reinforcement based system and I'm committed to growing my knowledge base.
I’m a pro! I’m actually a full time dog trainer teaching others how to train their dogs.
99%
Step 2: Please provide your email address:
Privacy Policy: By submitting this form, you are agreeing to receive messages from Susan Garrett & Say Yes Dog Training. Your email address will not be shared or sold. You are always free to easily unsubscribe at any time.
99%
Step 2: Please provide your email address:
Privacy Policy: By submitting this form, you are agreeing to receive messages from Susan Garrett & Say Yes Dog Training. Your email address will not be shared or sold. You are always free to easily unsubscribe at any time.
99%
Step 2: Please provide your email address:
Privacy Policy: By submitting this form, you are agreeing to receive messages from Susan Garrett & Say Yes Dog Training. Your email address will not be shared or sold. You are always free to easily unsubscribe at any time.
99%
Step 2: Please provide your email address:
Privacy Policy: By submitting this form, you are agreeing to receive messages from Susan Garrett & Say Yes Dog Training. Your email address will not be shared or sold. You are always free to easily unsubscribe at any time.
99%
Step 2: Please provide your email address:
Privacy Policy: By submitting this form, you are agreeing to receive messages from Susan Garrett & Say Yes Dog Training. Your email address will not be shared or sold. You are always free to easily unsubscribe at any time.
88%
Step 1: In order to help us best serve your needs choose the dog training experience that applies to you:
I’m a novice with very little (or no) experience in training or competing in dog agility.
I have experience competing in agility but never with the consistent success I’d like.
I’ve had some success in agility, and although still keen to learn to bring out the best in my dog, I have no aspirations for world teams or national championships.
I have big goals, I want to be the best my dog and I are capable of being with a focus towards national championships and/or world team competitions.
99%
Step 2: Please provide your email address:
Privacy Policy: By submitting this form, you are agreeing to receive messages from Susan Garrett & Say Yes Dog Training. Your email address will not be shared or sold. You are always free to easily unsubscribe at any time.
99%
Step 2: Please provide your email address:
Privacy Policy: By submitting this form, you are agreeing to receive messages from Susan Garrett & Say Yes Dog Training. Your email address will not be shared or sold. You are always free to easily unsubscribe at any time.
99%
Step 2: Please provide your email address:
Privacy Policy: By submitting this form, you are agreeing to receive messages from Susan Garrett & Say Yes Dog Training. Your email address will not be shared or sold. You are always free to easily unsubscribe at any time.
99%
Step 2: Please provide your email address:
Privacy Policy: By submitting this form, you are agreeing to receive messages from Susan Garrett & Say Yes Dog Training. Your email address will not be shared or sold. You are always free to easily unsubscribe at any time.
88%
Step 1: In order to help us best serve your needs choose the dog training experience that applies to you:
I’m new to agility, this is all brand new to me.
I have experience competing in agility but never with the consistent success I’d like.
I’ve had some success in agility, and although still keen to learn to bring out the best in my dog, I have no aspirations for world teams or national championships.
I have big goals, I want to be the best my dog and I are capable of being with a focus towards national championships and/or world team competitions.
99%
Step 2: Please provide your email address:
Privacy Policy: By submitting this form, you are agreeing to receive messages from Susan Garrett & Say Yes Dog Training. Your email address will not be shared or sold. You are always free to easily unsubscribe at any time.
99%
Step 2: Please provide your email address:
Privacy Policy: By submitting this form, you are agreeing to receive messages from Susan Garrett & Say Yes Dog Training. Your email address will not be shared or sold. You are always free to easily unsubscribe at any time.
99%
Step 2: Please provide your email address:
Privacy Policy: By submitting this form, you are agreeing to receive messages from Susan Garrett & Say Yes Dog Training. Your email address will not be shared or sold. You are always free to easily unsubscribe at any time.
99%
Step 2: Please provide your email address:
Privacy Policy: By submitting this form, you are agreeing to receive messages from Susan Garrett & Say Yes Dog Training. Your email address will not be shared or sold. You are always free to easily unsubscribe at any time.
| 45,350 |
To many people chess is a pleasant pastime, a board game they can play with a friend. Others see it as a form of art, a theme that inspires literary pieces, dance and music performances, paintings and even blockbuster movies. To plenty it is a sport, an Olympic game, a career. It is also an educational tool, taught in schools for improving life skill - as is Chessity's main focus.
Chess has a thousand different faces. All the unique experienced offered by chess are celebrated and brought together during the annual Global Chess Festival, hosted by multiple Olympic champion Judit Polgar.
The passion for the game is the link between generations that teaches both young and old perseverance, logical thinking and respect.
This saturday, October 13th, the fourth edition of this festival will take place. Though the event will be hosted in Polgar’s hometown of Budapest, dozens of countries from around the world will be taking part in the celebration of the world’s oldest board game.
The goal is to have a special day, when chess fans all around the world, everyone who sees the importance of the game, will share their personal chess experiences. All with Polgars' personal motto in mind: 'Chess connects us' (#ChessConnectsUs). Chessity wholeheartedly supports this and is happy to be present in Budapest this weekend.
The Budapest events of the festival will take place in the Hungarian National Gallery. The program is packed with chess, arts and children's activities. "The passion for the game is the link between generations that teaches both young and old perseverance, logical thinking and respect," says Judit Polgar.
Watch the video to get an impression of last year's Global Chess Festival
Educational chess programs
Amateur and professional chess players from over the globe will be connected through their own chess events on this day. A special mention goes to Holland and the small island of Schiermonnikoog: the island of only a thousand inhabitants has declared itself the "Isle of Chess', with every local child being taught to play chess in the future.
Another prominent role is for China, with nearly 200 locations taking part in the event. The emphasis of this will be placed on the teaching capabilities of chess, in line with Polgar's educational programs being introduced from September into dozens of schools in the country.
Join in and feel connected
The Global Chess Festival has created an online map of the world that shows all the events in the world that are part of the festival. Take a look to find out if there is an event you can join in your region:
But even if you are not able to participate in one of the organized chess events, you can be part of the Global Chess Festival. How? Following Chessity on Facebook or Twitter (where we will keep you posted about the events of the day in Budapest). Of by simply playing and enjoying a game of the chess, feeling connected to the millions of people around the globe who are doing the same thing. #ChessConnectsUs
Visit the official website: www.globalchessfestival.com (with livestream)
by JacquelineW on Oct 9, 2018 6350 0
Chessto keeps chess learners in the flow (Release News #4)
As a teacher your time is a precious resource. That’s why we created Chessto. In a previous blog, we described Chessto’s role as a fully adaptive virtual ches...
by JacquelineW on Sep 15, 2018 2860 0
Last week, we released a new version of Chessity and there is more to come over the next few days. Chessity’s September 2018 release is all about making chess easy:...
by Janton on Oct 2, 2013 1823 2
4 reasons why Judit Polgars Chess Festival is so important
This weekend a part of the Chessity team enjoyed the 7th Chess festival of Judit, Susan and Sofia Polgar. What makes this event so special? Chess has such a big history ...
| 3,985 |
Some cookies are necessary in order to make this website function correctly. These are set by default and whilst you can block or delete them by changing your browser settings, some functionality such as being able to log in to the website will not work if you do this. The necessary cookies set on this website are as follows:
A 'sessionid' token is required for logging in to the website and a 'crfstoken' token is used to prevent cross site request forgery.
An 'alertDismissed' token is used to prevent certain alerts from re-appearing if they have been dismissed.
An 'awsUploads' object is used to facilitate file uploads.
We use Matomo cookies to improve the website performance by capturing information such as browser and device types. The data from this cookie is anonymised.
Cookies are used to help distinguish between humans and bots on contact forms on this website.
A cookie is used to store your cookie preferences for this website.
Cookies that are not necessary to make the website work, but which enable additional functionality, can also be set. By default these cookies are disabled, but you can choose to enable them below:
| 1,186 |
Often called the tree of life, it is an increasingly popular organ for modern women to eat after childbirth, and some have made art with it. Pictured above is one mother’s Placenta Art.
Following is a article Ozzie Ozkay-Villa wrote for Nourishing Our Children.
Have you ever watched a dog or other family pet give birth? Yes it is exciting and cute and beautiful and all that fun stuff. And then, IT comes out … bloody, gooey red blob. Just when you thought it was over … they eat it!
Yes, the placenta. The organ that nourishes your baby while he is in your womb. Some call it beautiful, some call it gross, some gag at the mere thought of it. If you ever get the chance to examine one – it’s actually quite fascinating; it looks like the tree of life! Above all, one thing is for certain, it plays a miraculous and vital part in growing a fetus.
My name is Ozzie, I founded Alternative Mothers Group and am a birth and post-partum doula serving Marin County. Not only do I attend births but I also take home this amazing thing we call the Placenta, and bring it back to my clients in pill form all wrapped up in a pretty little bottle.
All other mammals in the wild eat their placenta after the birth of their young. As with much of our modern world, we choose not to question why so much has changed from our roots – after all, we are animals too aren’t we? Ok, I’m not expecting you to pick up your placenta and eat it right after the birth of your beautiful baby (although I do know women that have done this). Yes, the animals in the wild eat it partly to clean up all evidence of a birth but they also eat it for many other reasons:
It contains lots of nutrients and hormones
It can increase energy
It can reduce your postpartum healing time
It can increase your milk supply and make richer milk
It can reduce symptoms at menopause
Specifically, the placenta contains high levels of prostaglandin which stimulates involution (an inward curvature or penetration, or, a shrinking or return to a former size) of the uterus, in effect cleaning the uterus out. The placenta also contains small amounts of oxytocin which eases birth stress and causes the smooth muscles around the mammary cells to contract and eject milk. Read more about placentophagy.
How to Eat Your Placenta
You have some options if you are considering eating your placenta. For any of these options you want to make sure you clean it really well before you ingest it. Wash off all blood, cut off the umbilical cord and get as much of the sac off as you can.
It takes a particular personality to pull this off. As I said before, it’s not as popular, and if you are having a hospital birth, I can assure you they are not going to let you do this immediately after. If you are having a home birth, this is completely your decision. Often times a midwife may suggest it as an option to stop excessive postpartum bleeding, although she does come with other tools in her bags if this should ever happen to you.
This can be done two ways – you can either cut off pieces of the placenta into tiny bits and swallow them (just like a pill). Or you can blend it into a smoothie. I would suggest using strong ingredients to cover the taste if you opt for the smoothie version. It’s been said by moms that have chosen the uncooked option that they experience an immediate rush of energy, so that’s pretty cool!
Cooked:
Another option is to cook the placenta as you would any other piece of organ meat. You can pretty much do anything from stews, to pizza topping. Again, go for bold flavors and lots of spices. Since you’ll probably have a lot of whatever you cook (and since you’ll probably be eating it on your own) you might want to freeze some of it so that you can continue to take it should you feel down or anxious at all those first several weeks. I would suggest freezing it in smaller portions, as any other frozen food, you don’t want to pull it out of the freezer and re-freeze it afterward.
This seems to be the more popular choice and is when you would call a “Placenta Processor” (or doula) to take care of this for you. It is something that you can do on your own but with the madness of a new baby at home – trust me it’s not worth your time or energy. It can be a very tedious and messy task and the equipment alone can cost about $200 which is close to what most Placenta Processors charge anyway.
There are two methods to encapsulation. The first, more traditional, Chinese method is to steam the placenta, stovetop with a variety of healing herbs. You then slice it up and place it in a food dehydrator until it’s crispy, usually 8-10 hours (at this point you could also eat it like beef jerky). You then grind it up in a coffee grinder until it turns into a powdery consistency and put it into capsules that you can find at your local health food store. You can also buy a capsule filling machine but again, they can be pricey and it is still tedious nonetheless. The second method is to skip the steaming process altogether and go straight to slicing, dehydrating, grinding and encapsulating (this is also a “raw” option).
This is usually done in addition to encapsulation as the tincture can last for years and years if stored in a dry dark place. It can be taken during times of sickness, PMS or high stress. To make the tincture, you blend a small chunk of the fresh placenta with some high quality vodka. Store in a mason jar for 6 weeks (give the jar a swirl every day). Strain off the placenta with some cheese cloth or an unbleached coffee filter. Not only that but it can also be given to baby in times of high stress or sickness.
[Editor’s note – here is a resource for further reading: The Placenta Cookbook.]
It is not rare anymore to hear from the most mainstream of mothers that she is choosing to encapsulate her placenta with her second child for fear of suffering from Postpartum Depression again. And, when you can get it in pill form – it doesn’t really even phase you!
That said, this is a very personal decision and not everyone feels comfortable making this choice. There have been reports of mothers taking their placenta pills and feeling jittery and wired.
As with all pregnancy, birthing and parenting decisions, it is important to remember we are all unique and what works for one mother, may not work for another. The best advice anyone can give you is to be open minded, do your research, then make an informed decision – whatever that decision may be.
About Our Guest Author
Ozzie Ozkay-Villa is founder and president of Alternative Mothers Group and works as a birth and postpartum doula serving Marin County. For more information, or if you are interested in Placenta Encapsulation please visit her website.
Eating one’s placenta is not without controversy.
Here are a few articles I encourage you to read which highlight that point:
“I regret eating my placenta”
Demanding that new mothers act like four legged animals is going way too far.
Where do you land on the question – “to eat your placenta or not”? Have you done it? What has your experience been?
Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
Related
Published on June 26, 2012
Rachel Yellin June 26, 2012
I would absolutely eat my placenta! I would clean it and then put small amounts of it in a smoothie every day after the birth.
There are lots of resources on my website for women in San Francisco and Marin who offer encapsulation as well. You can see my resource page at http://www.rachelyellin.com/Resources.html
Sandrine Hahn June 26, 2012
Hi Rachel, you are not alone! We have had a fairly robust response to this post on Facebook as well with many who share your willingness: https://www.facebook.com/nourishingourchildren/posts/465845843425895
Jordan June 26, 2012
I had my placenta encapsulated following the birth of our second daughter and believe it helped immensely with healing. The mw who did the encapsulation for me even came to the hospital to retrieve the placenta just hours after I gave birth, cooler and all! After reading the article written by the woman who regretted eating her placenta, I wonder if the negative side effects she experienced had to do w/ the herbs…my placenta was encapsulated by itself and I felt great while taking it. I would eat my placenta again and also recommend it to any other mothers who are considering it.
Sandrine Hahn June 26, 2012
Thanks, Jordan – good point about the herbs! It is hard to know what’s what in that case.
Renee Rodriguez Kohley June 26, 2012
I really really really want to do this next time around! Where can I find more information on having someone encapsulate it for me? I really struggled with nursing my girls and supplemented with homemade raw milk formula with both. I had a severe hemmrrhage with my first and dried up milk in 6 weeks. With my second I didn’t make enough for her until she was at least 2 months – I am so thankful for the recipe from WAPF! I wonder if taking my placenta would help replenish quicker and help with my milk production!
HI renee – If its hard to find someone to encapsulate your placenta you can do it yourself- I did and its not very hard..
1. Take placenta ( make sure its stored on ice and put into the fridge/ freezer) and stab to get the clots out and wash under water
2. steam placenta until it appears fully cooked
3. slice thinly
4. put in dehydrator for 12 hours
5. grind dehydrated placenta in coffee grinder into a fine powder
6. take empty capsules ( which you can find online for very cheap) and fill with powder
7. take 10-12 pills a day for the first 3- 4 weeks after birth and then reduce to 6
Sherry June 26, 2012
If I have another babe, I am definitely eating raw placenta!!
You can eat it fresh for 2-3 days in the fridge (the way the author describes) and then freeze the rest into supplement sized pieces, so that you can swallow a capsule size bite each day right out of the freezer!
Ozzie June 26, 2012
I’m glad you all enjoyed my guest blog post. Renee, if you are in Marin I would be happy to provide this service for you. If you are not in the area, there is a great website, http://www.placentabenefits.info and you can find a specialist in your area!
Renee Rodriguez Kohley June 28, 2012
Thank you :) I live in Michigan – I will look up to see where I might find someone to help!
Katie Louderback June 26, 2012
This was a great blog post Ozzie! I ate mine after my second daughter’s birth. My incredible friend/doula Britt Fohrman cut it up for me to eat raw an hour or so after the birth and then she cut some up to add to smoothies which I did for the next several weeks. I felt incredible after birth and do believe that the placenta was a big piece of that. If I let myself think about what I was eating it did gross me out I admit, but if I just ate it quickly I was fine. I think encapsulation of placenta is another really great option and then it can be used at different times over the course of one’s life.
Tressa June 26, 2012
I still have my two placentas sitting in the freezer!
Sandrine Hahn June 27, 2012
Here is a photo I saw on Facebook that is apropos to our discussion: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151057696640070
Deborah June 28, 2012
Great post! Thanks to Ozzie and to everyone for their comments.
Sandrine Hahn June 28, 2012
Deborah – did you see the 80 Facebook responses – open to the public: https://www.facebook.com/nourishingourchildren/posts/465845843425895! Quite robust – I am interesting to learn whether or not eating one’s placenta would be considered kosher and why or why not!
Sandrine Hahn June 29, 2012
I have been in search of an answer to “Is the placenta kosher to eat” out of curiosity and found this: http://www.kveller.com/blog/parenting/eating-placenta-aint-kosher/
Laura S June 29, 2012
I had home births with both of my children, and the placenta grossed me out both times. I didn’t even want to look at it. It ended up going into the ground with a tree for each of the kids. This is my biggest regret is regards to birthing. I wish I had known better. I wish that someone had challenged me to read up on the benefits of consuming the placenta.
I struggle with acne, and as I learn more about my health and body and experiment with different things I am beginning to believe that the acne is hormone related. If I was able to attain someone else’s encapsulated placenta somehow, is this something that could potentially help balance my hormones?
Hi Laura– its actually an “herb” in chinese herbal medicine and its called Zi He Che – I am not sure at this point if I would recommend it for you but maybe instead go and see a chinese herbalist/ acupuncturist and they can help you balance out your hormones .
intheflow88 July 2, 2012
I want to hear more about how eating your placenta can reduce symptoms at menopause.
Deborah July 5, 2012
The homeopathic remedy made from Placenta is very helpful as well, for many things: nausea of pregnancy, retained placenta, placenta previa, weak placenta, babies who have difficulty bonding and refuse breast milk, allergies (it helps detox on many levels, just like the organ), menstrual cramps…on an emotional level it can help one become more self aware. Credit/thanks to Melissa Assilem for her book on this remedy: Gifts of the Mother, The Matridonal Remedies; Idolatry Ink, 2009.
Susan July 5, 2012
I just found this by Ecological Formulas: Placenta 60 caps 250 mg
Lypholized (freeze-dried) placenta (New Zealand Bovine tissue) represents one of the richest sources of nutrients and immune co-factors naturally present in biological tissue.
Take 1-2 capsules daily before meals or as directed.
angela September 5, 2012
I encapsulated my placenta after the birth of my first baby–or rather, my husband took care of encapsulating it for me! I realize not everyone’s significant other would be willing to take this on, but it actually proved pretty easy (and most assuredly did not cost $200– it total it cost $10 for the size 00 gelatin capsules. That’s it. He steamed it, dehydrated it in the oven, and ground it in the food processor). I was very grateful to have them during my postpartum healing–they significantly improved my mood, assuaged my anxieties, my pre-pregnancy acne never came back, and I have an excellent supply of milk (though I don’t assume this last benefit is entirely owing to the capsules). If you can pass the responsibility of preparation off to a devoted loved one, then mama has lots of time to heal, bond with the baby, and reap the benefits of placenta encapsulation.
Cynthia May 16, 2013
I have eaten my encapsulated placenta, twice – with both my children. First time, my partner prepared it, second time around we had the doula do the encapsulation. Really helped with ppd, and my milk supply has been great.
Mary May 30, 2013
I bought a capsule filling manual machine at our local natural food shop for $15.
Stacy May 30, 2013
I’m all for a healthy, natural diet and doing whatever is best for my baby but seriously, eating something that is expelled from my body during childbirth is certainly where I draw the line. How is this not a form of cannibalism?
So if you give birth to multiples and one twin or triplet tragically passes, should you just slice and dice him too? That’s what an “animal” would do. Same thing, right? Maybe you could even make a nice broth stock – that should last a long time in the freezer and is even Paleo!
I think people take things too far.
Lisa C May 30, 2013
I am definitely open to eating my placenta, and I don’t think I would have to have it encapsulated to do so. Whenever I give birth again, I think I will try it and see how my body responds. I know when I started eating liver, my body started to crave it because I needed the nutrients. I think if my body needs my placenta, I will be drawn to eating it.
I did find this article by The Primal Parent to have some interesting points. For example, if we were going to eat placenta as animals do, or traditional peoples, we would probably only have some soon after the birth, and not as pills to be taken months down the road. Not saying there isn’t benefit to that, I just think that’s something to think about. http://theprimalparent.com/2012/08/16/why-not-eat-placenta/
Dawn May 30, 2013
Stacy I don’t think you understand why people are consuming their placenta. I personally am considering it because of how off my body and hormones are after birth. I don’t know what I’m capable of during ppd, and I don’t want to find out. If Something natural like this would be a refreshing safe solution, I’m in! Read more about the why, before you get so edgy and judge so harsh.
locksmith atlanta georgia August 2, 2013
I every time spent my half an hour to read this website’s content every day along with a mug of coffee.
| 17,658 |
Thank you for choosing to be part of our community at Bayshore Intelligence Solutions (India) Private Limited. We are committed to protecting your personal information and your right to privacy. If you have any questions or concerns about our policy or our practices with regards to your personal information, please contact us at admin@bayshoreintel.com.
The privacy of your personal information is important to Bayshore Intelligence Solutions (India) Private Limited and we are committed to protecting your privacy and developing technology that gives you the most powerful and safe online experiences.
To better protect your privacy, we provide you with our privacy policy (Privacy Policy”) so that you will understand our commitment to you and your privacy. This Privacy Policy describes what information we may collect about you; how we use your information; how we protect it; and what choices you have on how that information is used.
This Privacy Policy applies to Bayshore’s website and governs data collection and usage. By visiting and accessing our website, you consent to the data practices described in this policy. We want you to feel as comfortable as possible visiting our website and/or interactive digital platforms provided by hosted and operated by Bayshore (collectively “Sites” or “Bayshore Sites”) and using their respective services.
Our policies, rules, procedures & guidelines are in compliance with globally accepted protection rules & IT industry standards and we strictly adhere to them. When we refer to ourselves as "we" or “us” or “our” or "Bayshore" we mean our entire company, including any company that we control (for example, a subsidiary that we own). We may share information among companies that we own or control, and we may share information with our employees, co-promotion partners, and companies working with us, but all information we share will always be protected under the terms of this Privacy Policy.
Bayshore may have personally identifiable information, such as your e-mail address, name, and mobile or telephone number. Bayshore also collects anonymous demographic information, which is not unique to you, such as your ZIP code, age, gender, preferences, interests, and favorites.
There is also information about your computer hardware and software that is automatically collected by Bayshore. This information can include your IP address, browser type, domain names, access times, and referring Web site addresses. This information is used by Bayshore for the operation of the service, to maintain the quality of the service, and to provide general statistics regarding the use of the Sites. Please keep in mind that if you directly disclose personally identifiable information or personally sensitive data through Bayshore’s public message boards, this information may be collected and used by others. In this regard, please note that Bayshore does not read any of your private online communications. We encourage you to review the privacy statements of Bayshore so that you can understand how those Web sites collect, use and share your information. Bayshore is not responsible for how other websites/portals treat your privacy once you leave a Bayshore Site.
Personal Information We Receive
Visitors to each of Bayshore Sites (i.e. other than those hosted by third parties) can access such Site's home page, and access some areas of the site, without disclosing any personally identifiable information. We do track information provided to us by your browser, including the website you came from (known as the referring URL), the type of browser you use, the time and date of access, and other information that does not personally identify you. You may have to register to access portions of the Bayshore Site.
In addition, we gather information about you that is automatically collected by our web servers, such as your IP address and domain name. Bayshore may use web server and browser information to individually customize its offerings and presentations if you submit your personal information.
Visitors may also provide their identifying information, such as name, email address, and contact information, which information is optional and may be given at your discretion only.
In addition, we gather information about you that is automatically collected by our web servers, such as your IP address and domain name. Bayshore may use web server and browser information to individually customize its offerings and presentations if you submit your personal information.
We collect passwords, password hints, and similar security information used for authentication and account access.
We collect data necessary to process your payment if you make purchases, such as your payment instrument number (such as a credit card number), and the security code associated with your payment instrument. All payment data is stored by our payment processor (Stripe) and you should review its privacy policies and contact the payment processor directly to respond to your questions.
All personal information that you provide to us must be true, complete, and accurate, and you must notify us of any changes to such personal information.
We also collect information that you voluntarily provide to us through responses to surveys, search functions, questionnaires, job postings, queries, complaints, We may also ask you to provide additional information if you want to obtain additional services or information or to resolve complaints or concerns.
Bayshore collects and uses your personal information to operate the Bayshore Sites and deliver the services you have requested. Bayshore also uses your personally identifiable information to inform you of other products or services available from Bayshore and its affiliates. Bayshore may also contact you via surveys to conduct research about your opinion of current services or of potential new services that may be offered. We process your information for purposes based on legitimate business interests, the fulfillment of our contract with you, compliance with our legal obligations, and/or your consent.
Bayshore may, from time to time, contact you about a particular offering that may be of interest to you. In those cases, your unique personally identifiable information (e-mail, name, address, telephone number) is not transferred to any third party. In addition, Bayshore may share data with trusted partners to help us perform statistical analysis, send you email or postal mail, provide customer support, or arrange for deliveries. All such third parties are prohibited from using your personal information except to provide these services to Bayshore, and they are required to maintain the confidentiality of your information.
Bayshore does not use or disclose sensitive personal information, such as race, religion, or political affiliations, without your explicit consent. We respect the privacy and security of your personal data and provide you with an option to opt-out or withdraw your consent at any time, subject to legal and reasonable notice in writing.
We may use your personal information to send you the product, service, and new feature information and/or information about changes to our terms, conditions, and policies.
We post testimonials on our Sites that may contain personal information. Prior to posting a testimonial,admin@bayshoreintel.com and be sure to include your name, testimonial location, and contact information. We may use your information to request feedback and to contact you about your use of our Sites.
We may use your information for other Business Purposes, such as data analysis, identifying usage trends, determining the effectiveness of our promotional campaigns, and evaluating and improve our Sites, products, services, marketing, and experience.
We only share information with your consent, to comply with laws, protect your rights, or fulfill business obligations. If we receive a subpoena or other legal request, we may need to inspect the data we hold to determine how to respond.
Cookies, log files, and pixel-tags (web beacons) are technologies used by the Bayshore Sites to identify a user as the user moves through our Sites. Bayshore may use standard technology called “cookies” on this site. Cookies are small data files that are downloaded onto your computer when you visit a particular site. Your browser allows us to place some information (session-based IDs and/or persistent cookies) on your computer's hard drive that identifies the computer you are using. We may use cookies to personalize our to track your usage across other Bayshore Sites.
The purpose of a cookie is to tell us that you have returned to a specific page. For example, if you personalize Bayshore’spages, or register with Bayshore, a cookie helps Bayshore to recall your specific information on subsequent visits. This simplifies the process of recording your personal information, such as billing addresses, shipping addresses, and so on. When you return to the same Bayshore Site, the information you previously provided can be retrieved, so you can easily use the features that you customized.
You have the ability to accept or decline cookies. Most Web browsers automatically accept cookies, but you can usually modify your browser setting to decline cookies if you prefer. If you choose to decline cookies, you may not be able to fully experience the interactive features of the Bayshore Site you visit.
In addition, we may use other tracking systems like pixel-tags. Pixel tags, sometimes called web beacons, are similar in function to a cookie. But because of their insignificant size, it is not visible; though, they are used to pass certain information to our servers to personalize our Sites and to track your usage across other Sites. In addition, we may also use pixel tags in our HTML-based e-mails.
Aggregate Data We may gather aggregate data from the information provided by the visitors to our Sites and share your personally identifiable information with our affiliates, our agents, contractor, or business partners in order that they may perform services for us. We use our best efforts to assure that such third parties agree to abide by our privacy policies and enter into appropriate agreements to ensure that the third parties who receive your information implement security measures commensurate to our security standards.
If we discover that a third party working on behalf of us inappropriately disclosed personal information about any of our visitors, we will take immediate action to prevent further occurrences. Other than as described above, we will not release personally identifiable information to a third party.
Referrals Our Site may provide a referral function whereby you may choose to use it to tell a friend about our site. Our site will ask you for your friend's name and e-mail address as well as your information. The form automatically sends your friend a one-time e-mail inviting him or her to visit the Site. We do not access or store this information, except to send this invitation.
We have put in place appropriate physical, electronic, and managerial procedures to safeguard and help prevent unauthorized access, maintain data security, and correctly use the information we collect online. While we strive to protect your personal data against potential risks and exposures, the absolute security of data in the online sphere cannot be guaranteed. Hence, we ask you to support our information security efforts by not disclosing any data on our Sites that are particularly sensitive (including financial information, information relating to physical, physiological, and mental health, sexual orientation, etc.) or not required in the specific context on any of our Sites. Furthermore, you can help us protecting your personal data by signing off when you finished using log-in protected areas of the Site.
Personally identifiable information you may share with us is stored on our database servers in India and the USA or hosted by third parties who have entered into agreements with us that require them to observe our Privacy Policy. We have a firewall and other technology to prevent individuals from accessing information without authorization. Data centers are designed to be physically secure and protected from unauthorized access by unauthorized persons.
In addition to aggregate information (discussed previously), we may share some kinds of information with third parties as described below. Companies and people who work for us: We may contract with other companies and individuals to help us provide services. For example, we may host some of our Sites on another company's computers, hire technical consultants to maintain our web-based programmes, or work with companies to remove repetitive information from customer lists, analyze data, provide marketing assistance, and provide customer service. In order to perform their jobs, these other companies may have limited access to some of the personal information we maintain about our users. Other companies may collect information on our behalf through their sites. We require such companies to comply with the terms of our privacy policies, to limit their access to any personal information to the minimum necessary to perform their obligations, and not to use the information they may access for purposes other than fulfilling their responsibilities to us. We use our best efforts to limit other companies’ use of personally identifiable information. Promotional and informational offers: Sometimes we may send offers to selected groups of clients. To accomplish this we may use third parties working on behalf of Bayshore. We provide a variety of mechanisms for you to tell us you do not want to receive such promotional - informational offers. For example, we may provide an opt-in box for customers to receive information that is sent by a third-party fulfillment house, and we make clear that, by opting in, you are submitting your data to a third party. You can elect not to receive promotional or informational material from us by following the instructions to opt-out as mentioned or included in each of the programs we send to you. Business transfers: If we transfer a business unit (such as a subsidiary) or an asset (such as a Site) to another company, we will require it to honour the terms of this Privacy Policy. Legal requirements: We may release accounts and other personal information when we believe release is required to comply with the law. We may release information if, in our judgment after review by a lawyer, the release is compelled by law or regulation. Links to other websites: We may from time to time provide links to third-party websites for your convenience and information. We may also use third-party websites, social media platforms, and pages therein which would be hosted and owned by third parties. Such third party websites are not controlled by us. When you visit such other websites or social media platforms, you do so at your own risk. Such third-party websites or social media platforms may have their own privacy policies in place, which we recommend that you review if you visit any such websites or social media platforms. We do not assume any responsibility or liability arising out of, or associated with the use of such third party websites or social media platforms, the content of such websites (other than content managed by Bayshore), and their privacy practices, nor do we endorse them. We encourage you to familiarize yourself with the privacy policies provided by such other websites or social media platforms prior to providing them with information about you or entering into any transactions on them. Phishing: Identity theft and the practice currently known as "phishing" are of great concern to us. Safeguarding information to help protect you from identity theft is a priority for us. We do not and will not, at any time, request your credit or debit card information, bank account numbers, or passwords in a non-secure, or unsolicited e-mail or telephone communication. Please refrain from providing such information through any non-secure medium.
You can always contact us in order to (i) remove the personal information that you have provided to us from our systems, (ii) update the personal information that you have provided to us, and (iii) change your preferences with respect to marketing contacts by e-mailing our ADMIN at admin@bayshoreintel.com or if available also logging into your account (with the relevant Site, if any) to update your information.
You may note that a request for deletion of your personal information may lead to the cancellation of your registration with our Site, restriction of your access to certain features of the Site, as well as the cessation of certain services.
This privacy policy is effective as of June 01, 2020. From time to time we may update this Privacy Policy. Your continued use of our Sites constitutes an acceptance of the then-current Privacy Policy. We also encourage you to visit this page periodically to review any changes.
The General Data Protection Regulation (the “GDPR”) is important legislation in the space of privacy and data protection and we would love to share the steps we are taking to make sure we are GDPR compliant. On this page, we address our commitment to adhering to the GDPR, how we are implementing it, and how these changes affect you, as our customers.
What is GDPR?
GDPR is a regulation that applies to companies, government agencies, non-profits, and other organizations that offer goods and services to people in the European Union (EU), or that collect and analyze data tied to EU residents. The GDPR addresses rights granted to EU individuals, and it places obligations on organizations that market to, track or handle EU personal data, no matter where an organization is located. WHOM DOES THE GDPR AFFECT?
The GDPR applies not only to organizations located within the EU but also applies to organizations located outside of the EU if they offer goods or services to, or monitor the behavior of, EU residents. It applies to all companies processing and holding the personal data of data subjects residing in the European Union, regardless of the company’s location. Personal data is any information related to an identified or identifiable natural person or ‘data subject’. This could be anything from a name, a photo, an email address, bank details, posts on social networking websites, location, or a computer IP address.
We have a clear Privacy Policy that gives you information on what information we collect, how we process your data, and how we use cookies available at bayshoreintel.com/privacy. This Policy is updated periodically. Data Processing Agreement with Customers We provide customers the option of signing a Data Processing Agreement (“DPA”). As the designated processor of customers’ account data, we process any personal data solely in accordance with this DPA that provides you with sufficient guarantees and assurances regarding our obligations under GDPR.
We have put in appropriate technical and organizational measures to ensure a level of security appropriate to the risk to the personal information we process on your behalf. We understand that our customers’ data is of paramount importance and requires reliable and secure measures to safeguard it. In light of this, we have the following certifications in place:
Deletion of Customer Data
Your data will be deleted and anonymized in accordance with our DPA and Privacy Policy.
Data Processing Agreements with Vendors
We undertake due diligence to ensure that our vendors have in place appropriate technical and organizational security measures to protect your personal information. We only work with vendors that provide sufficient security guarantees and sign agreements to this effect.
Assistance to Customers with Compliance
We assist our customers to comply with their obligations under applicable data protection laws. We provide such assistance within a reasonable time and as required under the terms of the DPA with the customer. Assistance may include, for example, helping our customer to keep the personal information we process on its behalf accurate and up to date, helping it to provide individuals with access to their personal information, or helping the customer to delete data of individuals, or helping it to conduct data protection impact assessments.
Disclosure of Sub-processors
We disclose the list of existing sub-processors that we utilize at the time of entering into the DPA with a customer and obtain your authorization for use of such sub-processors. Thereafter, we also obtain your due authorization before appointing, adding, or replacing a sub-processor to process personal information on its behalf.
We also have a compliance framework in our organization to monitor our adherence to the GDPR.
We restrict our personnel from processing personal data without due authorization and have appropriate contractual obligations regarding confidentiality, data security, and data protection in place with them.
The content above is provided for informational purposes only. The information shared here is not meant to serve as legal advice. You should work closely with legal and other professional counsel to determine exactly how the GDPR may or may not apply to you.
| 21,861 |
Every one of us wants the best things in the world. The best clothes, shoes, cars and the list goes on. Seeking the best things is fine in all the other areas but not when it comes to selecting a mutual fund to invest.
It is easy to get swayed by the best mutual fund that is giving eyeball popping returns in the last six months. But is it a good option to go for this best mutual fund? The answer is, it depends.
It depends on whether this best fund is also the right fund for you. The right fund will vary from individual to individual. There are a number of factors that need to be considered to arrive at the right fund. By the right fund, we mean the most appropriate fund for a particular investor. The appropriate fund for someone who wants to stay invested for 10 years will vary from a person who wants to stay invested for just 10 months.
The investment horizon, risk-taking capacity, age, urgency of the goal are some of the factors that will help to decide whether the fund is right for you or not.
So, let’s understand what will be the right fund for you based on these factors:
Investment horizon:Investment horizon is the time that you would want to remain invested. Also, your investment horizon for your different goals will be different. You may want to stay invested for 10 years to buy a house, which may not be the same for a short term goal. If your investment horizon is short, then you can invest in a mutual fund that carries low risk. Liquid fund to short term debt funds is ideal investment options if your investment horizon is less than three years.
Risk-taking capacity: Not everyone can take the same level of risk. A young professional who has recently started working may not be willing to take a higher risk as the person may have no prior experience in investing in equities. On the other hand, a person who has been investing in equities will have a higher risk-taking capacity as he/she understands the risk associated with investing in equities. The person will be better emotionally prepared to handle the volatility in the stock market, than someone who hasn't invested in equities.
Age:Age is also a crucial factor which helps to decide the right fund. The financial needs of individuals belonging to different age groups will be different. A person in their 20s has a goal of buying a bike or travelling the world, while a person in their late 50s may want to create a sustainable monthly source of income. Hence, the route taken by the two individuals will be different. For the person in 20s, equity funds may be the best option to fulfil their long term financial goals. On the other hand, the person who is going to be retired, setting up a Systematic Withdrawal Plan from a debt fund with extremely low risk will help him to take care of his needs after retirement.
The urgency of the goal: We may have a lot of financial goals but there are a few goals that we can’t compromise. These goals are most likely to be short term goals. Planning for these goals will be different than the goals that are not very urgent. A higher allocation of the investment corpus may go towards fulfilling the urgent goals. Also, to make sure that you earn higher returns with moderate risk, you may have to invest in two or more mutual fund schemes. Depending on the time horizon of your goals, it may be a mix of equity and debt funds. Your financial advisor will be able to help you out with the detailed planning.
Conclusion:The factors such as time horizon, risk taking capacity, age and urgency of the goal should not be considered in silos. These factors are dependent on each other. It is always prudent to seat and discuss all these criteria with your financial advisor, who considering all these can help you to choose the right scheme for you.
Tags :
Other
Promotional
SIP
December
November
October
September
August
July
June
May
April
March
February
January
November 20,2022
Whether to go for mutual funds or PMS
November 19,2022
November 5,2022
Disclaimer: Financial Data is highly sensitive Information & we guarantee complete confidentiality about it.
| 4,272 |
MOST older people would rather hurl you off a cliff than allow you to call them ‘elderly’. Not so long ago, this was the standard shorthand term for older people and not at all controversial.
But, we have stopped respecting our elders and age is actually seen as so much more than a number. So the word ‘elderly’, along with variants on the theme, have acquired very disagreeable connotations.
‘Elderly’ is particularly disliked because older people know it is patronising. Many in the UK dislike the US-catch all ‘seniors’ partly because it is American, but also because it will always be linked to a brand of cigarettes with a bearded sailor on the pack. Aside from sporting competitions, the use of ‘veterans’ is not welcomed because of the military implications.
'Elder’, meanwhile, will never win approval because it is emblazoned on the name badges of impossibly young members of the Church of Latter Day Saints. So we are left with ‘older people’ – hence the ‘inoffensive’ name of this website.
Behind all this, is the fact that society despises age, so that words associated with oldness, especially ‘elderly’, suggest weakness and imbecility. They conjure up visions of walking frames, care homes and incontinence products. People should not have to put up with labels which denigrate them, but then again... If we have a problem with age, we need to do something about that problem, not just remove the ‘offensive’ language and carry on being offensive about and to older people.
Currently, there is much talk about renaming ‘anti-ageing’ products, to remove ageist language. No one should feel bad because of their age, the US ‘beauty’ industry insists. It has no plans to stop making these products, they are just not going to be called ‘anti-ageing’ anymore. It’s hilarious. Such crocodile tears from an industry which has grown rich on miracle cures for the ‘six signs of ageing’. Is it six? Who knows? Who cares?
The truth is, the language is representative of a prevalent anti-age attitude in our society - which has even won support among many older people, who don't want to be seen as old.
Using language to denigrate people and put them in a box is obviously wrong. Older people are people. They are us. But there should be nothing wrong with being older either, quite the reverse, and it is this attitude that needs to change.
It will not be changed simply by changing some language, saying one thing and doing another. Older people are blamed for everything from Trump to Brexit from the housing shortage to Budget deficit. That’s perfectly all right apparently...as long as you don’t call them 'elderly'. (Ironic)
6 views0 comments
Post not marked as liked
Recent Posts
Half of care homes had zero Covid deaths. Why did tens of thousands die in the other 7,000 homes?
Post not marked as liked
50% of care homes had no Covid deaths, says CQC, as inspectors slam poor infection control.
Post not marked as liked
Residents still at risk of poor Covid practice in some care homes - official reports show.
Post not marked as liked
© 2017 by OlderLivingMatters All text and original photos subject to copyright
OlderLivingMatters is a journalistic website offering information, guidance and advice based on experience of life today for older people. It is designed to be a friendly hand in difficulties and to highlight the problems of older people and their families. As with any friend, it is not perfect and will not have all the answers all of the time. Everyone’s situation is different and this needs to be taken this into account if you take action. Please be aware that you use the information and advice on this website at your own risk and it is not responsible or liable if things go wrong.
| 3,738 |
Do you love spending time with children and want to make a lasting impact in the lives of children and families, we have a uniquely rewarding part-time job opportunity waiting for you!
Butterfly Effects' Mission is to make a socially meaningful change in the lives of children and families by hiring passionate, caring people to serve children and families affected by autism.
If our mission resonates with you, then come join us!
We are looking for passionate Child Interventionists/ABA Behavior Technicians both entry-level and experienced to teach young children affected by autism. We want you to enjoy coming to work, so we dedicate ourselves to making our teams feel valued, respected, and heard.
This isn't just another place to work, it's a welcoming environment with a leadership team that champions every individual to achieve their potential.
Why Work at Butterfly Effects?
Children and families are at the heart of our work, and we take care of the people who make all the difference - People like You!
Part-time opportunity to make a full-time impact in a child's life!
Build a rewarding and valued career with education and training support
The opportunity to grow to become an RBT and/or Board Certified Behavior Analyst with guidance and subsidies from BE
Bring calm, protection, and happiness to families and children affected by autism
What would you be doing?
Our home-based treatment involves working directly with the child and the family in their natural environment most often their home, to teach them how to communicate, share, play, wait, and other essential skills. BE's Child Interventionist makes the home-session fun by teaching through play-based activities. We offer training to all staff, so they feel confident in the skills required to instruct children affected by autism. The best fit for this role is someone very outgoing, energetic, and friendly, with childcare experience.
This is a part-time role requiring 10-20 hours per week. The most common times for sessions are after-school hours between 2pm-7pm, but schedules and hours will vary based on client needs.
What do you bring to the role?
High School diploma
A love and passion for working with children
Interest in learning
Valid driver's license & personal vehicle
At least 3 weekdays w/ same availability
Positive attitude and strong people skills to work with children and families
Great to have a year of experience working with children OR 24+ credits completed in a relevant college degree
Compensation:
We believe in fair and competitive compensation. As such, we provide benefits outside of your hourly rate to give you the support and energy you need to bring your best self to your role.
$16-$18 per hour based on experience, education, and certifications
Benefits:
Our team members may be eligible for the following benefits:
Coursework and Competency Check to obtain the Registered Behavior Technician RBT certification
Drive-time pay between sessions
Supervision towards BCBA credential available
Growth and Development:
Our Child Interventionist will complete training to become a Registered Behavior Technician RBT. RBTs are 'helping professionals' that teach children affected by autism important life skills. RBTs work on goals such as functional communication, socializing with peers, and sharing with others. Butterfly Effects' RBTs receive training to make a meaningful change in the life of a child and their family.
Working with clients in their natural environments may require you to lift or move approximately 50 lbs. and be able to assume and maintain a variety of postures kneeling, squatting, sitting, standing for extended periods of time.
Who are we?
Butterfly Effects has served more than 10,000 families since our inception in 2005. We have a long history of improving the lives of children and families affected by autism spectrum disorder through our family-centric applied behavior analysis ABA approach. Our mission is to deliver ABA treatment in partnership with families affected by autism to foster a more joyous life.
A national leader in ASD treatment, Butterfly Effects employs more than 140 board-certified behavior analysts BCBA and over 1,000 behavior technicians in the 12 states we serve. Our corporate office located in Deerfield Beach, Florida is home to our leadership team and administrative staff who assist with daily operations, including client services, human resources, talent acquisition, finance, revenue cycle management, quality assurance, compliance, professional development, and professional ethics.
Our butterfly logo was chosen as a symbol of love, rebirth, and metamorphosis. Together, the name and logo represent our common purpose and deep commitment to helping families create lasting change through individualized ABA therapy.
| 4,867 |
How to find missing retirement funds: Millennium Trust
Millennium Trust Company, a leading provider of automatic rollover solutions for employer-sponsored retirement plans, today announced the launch of a free search tool to help individuals find unclaimed retirement funds that may have been rolled over to a Millennium Trust IRA account from a previous employer.
U.S. workers had nearly $25 trillion invested for retirement by the end of 2014 according to the “2015 Investment Company Fact Book,” but frequent job changes or layoffs may have caused some employees to lose track of their retirement accounts.
According to Terry Dunne, Managing Director of the Rollover Solutions Group at Millennium Trust, “Department of Labor statistics reveal that at the end of 2013, about 16 million people still had retirement assets in a former employer’s retirement plan. A significant percentage of these assets may represent missing, non-responsive participant assets.”
Millennium Trust is dedicated to assisting individuals to reconnect with their forgotten and unclaimed retirement accounts.
While there are several national databases that match individuals to unclaimed retirement funds, accounts custodied by Millennium Trust are not included. In response, the company has created an easy-to-use online search tool that will help anyone in the country see if they have unclaimed retirement account funds at Millennium Trust.
The process is simple: Visit http://www.mtrustcompany.com/unclaimed-retirement-funds. Enter your social security number—complete privacy is assured—and the system returns immediate results. If individuals have any unclaimed retirement funds, they can choose to complete online forms to either keep their account with Millennium Trust or take a distribution. Often former employees have moved or changed their contact information, making it difficult for previous employers or others to contact them. By providing current contact information, Millennium Trust can help the individual take control of their retirement funds.
Donald Trump is the only presidential candidate who has not laid out a plan to make Social Security financially sound – and 88% of New York’s undecided Republican voters 50 and older think he should, according to an AARP poll of the state’s largest voting bloc.
The survey of 399 Republican and 401 Democratic voters age 50 and above, conducted for AARP by Precision Opinion, found Trump and Hillary Clinton with commanding leads approaching next Tuesday’s New York presidential primaries, but with huge numbers of voters undecided.
On the GOP side, businessman Trump was favored by 40% of respondents, with 12% supporting U.S. Senator Ted Cruz of Texas, 9% backing Ohio Governor John Kasich, and 36% undecided.
Among Democrats, former First Lady and Secretary of State Clinton had 48%, with U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont at 21%, and 26% undecided.
The 50+ group accounted for 57% of all New York votes in the 2012 presidential election despite making up less than 52% of the state’s voting-age population. Nearly 65% of New Yorkers 50 and older went to the polls in the last presidential election, well above the 52% rate among younger voting-age New Yorkers.
Nearly 3.5 million New Yorkers receive Social Security – including almost nine of every 10 New Yorkers 65 and older. The 80-year-old federal earned benefits program keeps a third of New York’s 65+ population out of poverty, and makes up 50% or more of the income of nearly half the state’s 65+ population – and 90% or more of the income for more than two of every 10 New Yorkers 65 or older.
Republican women were more likely than GOP men to say it’s “very important” that Trump lay out a plan for Social Security (57% vs. 46%), as were Republican voters earning under$50,000 a year compared to those making over $100,000 (65% vs. 44%). Republican men were far more likely than GOP women to say it was “not important at all” for Trump to issue a plan (16% vs. 6%).
The telephone poll of registered voters was conducted April 5-8. Each sample – 401 Democrats and 399 Republicans – has a margin of sampling error of plus or minus 5%.
Voting rates and percentages for New York’s 50+ are based on statistics found athttps://www.census.gov/hhes/www/socdemo/voting/publications/p20/2012/tables.html, Table 4C.
Book by American College CEO gets nod from Buffett
A book co-authored by Dr. Robert Johnson, President and CEO of The American College of Financial Services, is on a list of specially chosen books to be sold at Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway Annual Shareholders Meeting later this month.
The book, “Strategic Value Investing: Practical Techniques of Leading Value Investors,” is one of about three dozen books – mostly about Buffett or investing – to make the exclusive list. But unlike most that made the final cut, Dr. Johnson’s book was apparently handpicked by the iconic billionaire investor himself.
“I am truly humbled and honored to have the book selected for inclusion on the Berkshire Hathaway Annual Selections List,” said Dr. Johnson, who co-wrote the book with Stephen Horan and Thomas Robinson.
Dubbed the “Woodstock for Capitalists,” the meeting is scheduled for April 30 in Buffett’s hometown of Omaha, Neb. Approximately 40,000 shareholders from around the world are expected to be on hand to hear Buffett and his business partner, Charlie Munger, offer their insights on the company and investing.
The process of selecting the books that will be on display in front of such a large and sophisticated financial audience starts every year with the staff at an Omaha bookstore called The Bookworm. The staff compiles a list that includes books that have sold well at previous meetings, plus any relevant new books that they recommend. Buffett then approves the list and sometimes, if so inspired, adds his own selections.
Dr. Johnson, who was an undergraduate student at the University of Nebraska-Omaha and a student and professor at Creighton University – also located in Omaha – will be back in familiar territory during the event to sign copies of his book that details how to build a world-class portfolio using value investing.
“It is always great to make the pilgrimage back to my hometown of Omaha for the Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting,” he said. “Knowing that some Berkshire Hathaway shareholders — perhaps the most knowledgeable shareholder base in the country — will read the book is a dream come true. It outlines various measures of value and provides a guide for helping investors develop their own unique style.”
Dr. Johnson has written or co-written other books, including “Invest With the Fed,” “The Tools and Techniques of Investment Planning,” and “Investment Banking for Dummies.”
Nearly half of Americans (47%) report being either “very concerned” (36%) or “terrified” (11%) that the rising cost of living will affect their retirement plans, according to a new study on Americans’ perceptions of the effects of inflation from Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America (Allianz Life). Additionally, 47% of respondents note they are either “very worried” (36%) or “panicked” (11%) that they won’t be able to afford the lifestyle they want in retirement due to rising costs.
Furthermore, 53% of Americans report they would feel either “very worried” (38%) or “panicked” (15%) about paying for expenses if their income was frozen and they never received an increase in annual salary. This concern is even greater among households with lower earnings—less than $50,000 per year—with 65% noting they are either “very worried” (41%) or “panicked” (22%) about the potential of having no annual pay raise on a fixed income. Unfortunately, many Americans already understand the challenge of living on a fixed income as only 50% of respondents reported they received annual pay raises during working years, and almost a third said they do “less than half of the time” (17%) or “almost never” (15%).
“This study highlights the potential psychological and fiscal impact of inflation on a person’s financial strategy,” said Allianz Life Vice President of Consumer Insights Katie Libbe.
According to Libbe, it’s clear from the data that consumers are aware of inflation and concerned about its effects on their retirement plans. Yet, these concerns are often overestimated. The average inflation rate Americans experienced over the last 20 years was 2.24%. However, more than a third (34%) of respondents believe the cost of living will rise 3%-4% per year during their retirement. Moreover, 19% expect to see an annual increase of 5%-6%, and almost one in 10 (8%) feel there could be an increase of more than 10% each year during their retirement.
These negative perceptions about inflation affect the way people are planning for their future, including basic needs such as housing, food and medical care. Nearly one-third (28%) worry they won’t be able to pay for the essentials because of the rising cost of living. This number jumps to 41% for those whose household income was less than $50,000. The study revealed that the majority (57%) of respondents plan to address rising costs by living more modestly in retirement.
Teamsters demonstrate against pension cuts
Thousands of Teamster retirees from across the country joined together at a rally at the U.S. Capitol today to protest the proposed cuts to their pensions by the Central States, Southeast and Southwest Areas Pension Fund (CSPF). The retirees received pledges of support from more than a dozen members of Congress in their fight to protect their hard-earned pension benefits.
CSPF filed an application for cuts to the Treasury Department in September 2015 as allowed under the Kline-Miller Multiemployer Pension Reform Act of 2014 (MPRA). Treasury appointee Ken Feinberg has until May 7 to approve or reject the application for benefit reductions. The cuts will devastate the lives of thousands of retirees who worked for years to earn pensions that could be cut as much as 60 percent under the CSPF plan.
“These cuts must not be approved,” said Teamsters General President Jim Hoffa. “You worked hard every day, year after year for the promise of a secure retirement. That was the deal. Now Central States wants to slash your pensions by up to 60 percent? Not on my watch. We will use every resource available to our union to stop these cuts!”
Members of Congress turned out to throw support behind the retirees’ fight against the cuts. In February, a bipartisan collection of 90 House members signed onto a letter sent to the Treasury asking it to reject Central States’ application. And 25 senators, both Republicans and Democrats, did the same in a separate letter.
“For years, workers have paid into the Central States pension plan,” Sen. Al Franken (D-Minn.) said. “Now, those promises are being broken. And it’s not right. I believe those that work hard and are promised retirement security should be able to retire with dignity.”
© 2016 RIJ Publishing LLC. All rights reserved.
Political Party Affiliation of Fortune 1500 Executives
A Recession’s Threat to Retirees and Near Retirees
(logged out)
Retirement Income Journal is a weekly, digital-only business-to-business news publication and website for life insurers, asset managers, financial advisors, academics, attorneys, regulators and technology firms worldwide whose products and services help Baby Boomers convert their savings to lifetime income. Established in 2009 and produced by "Annuities for Dummies" author Kerry Pechter, it reaches 7,000 online readers 48 times a year.
| 11,982 |
But now it’s time to think about President’s Day! You know, that great holiday where we celebrate our forefathers and their tireless dedication to… ummm… shopping.
Now through February 19th, 2007, you can go shop the President’s Day Sale at Macy’s . They’re marking stuff from 10% to 50% off, and giving an additional 25% off the clearance.
And over at Kohls their President’s Day Sale is also running through the 19th, with markdowns on all sorts of things (honestly, is anything ever not on sale at that store?) and an automatic 15% off your order if you use your Kohls charge card. (If you’re not using a Kohls charge, you can use coupon code NEW1668 for 10% off.) And they’re offering free shipping on $75, which is nice, because their normal shipping charges are a little steep.
Becca on February 15, 2007 at 11:17 am
Oh wonderful and pretty Mir, I have been waiting for these sales for weeks. For I have a specific digital camera I wish to buy. Any hints on where to look for the best deals for that? I want the Canon Powershot SD600 seen here on amazon. http://www.amazon.com/Canon-PowerShot-Digital-Camera-Optical/dp/B000EMWBT2/sr=8-1/qid=1171556162/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/102-4805213-0971312?ie=UTF8&s=electronics
Want Not Archives Select Month February 2021 January 2021 December 2020 November 2020 October 2020 September 2020 August 2020 June 2020 March 2020 February 2020 January 2020 December 2019 November 2019 October 2019 September 2019 August 2019 July 2019 June 2019 May 2019 April 2019 March 2019 February 2019 January 2019 December 2018 November 2018 October 2018 September 2018 August 2018 July 2018 June 2018 May 2018 April 2018 March 2018 February 2018 January 2018 December 2017 November 2017 October 2017 September 2017 August 2017 July 2017 June 2017 May 2017 April 2017 March 2017 February 2017 January 2017 December 2016 November 2016 October 2016 September 2016 August 2016 July 2016 June 2016 May 2016 April 2016 March 2016 February 2016 January 2016 December 2015 November 2015 October 2015 September 2015 August 2015 July 2015 June 2015 May 2015 April 2015 March 2015 February 2015 January 2015 December 2014 November 2014 October 2014 September 2014 August 2014 July 2014 June 2014 May 2014 April 2014 March 2014 February 2014 January 2014 December 2013 November 2013 October 2013 September 2013 August 2013 July 2013 June 2013 May 2013 April 2013 March 2013 February 2013 January 2013 December 2012 November 2012 October 2012 September 2012 August 2012 July 2012 June 2012 May 2012 April 2012 March 2012 February 2012 January 2012 December 2011 November 2011 October 2011 September 2011 August 2011 July 2011 June 2011 May 2011 April 2011 March 2011 February 2011 January 2011 December 2010 November 2010 October 2010 September 2010 August 2010 July 2010 June 2010 May 2010 April 2010 March 2010 February 2010 January 2010 December 2009 November 2009 October 2009 September 2009 August 2009 July 2009 June 2009 May 2009 April 2009 March 2009 February 2009 January 2009 December 2008 November 2008 October 2008 September 2008 August 2008 July 2008 June 2008 May 2008 April 2008 March 2008 February 2008 January 2008 December 2007 November 2007 October 2007 September 2007 August 2007 July 2007 June 2007 May 2007 April 2007 March 2007 February 2007 January 2007 December 2006 November 2006 October 2006 September 2006 August 2006 July 2006 June 2006
| 3,507 |
Not all companies have been exactly sailing through the pandemic, but those that are have something in common. Products like Zoom and Slack are surging in popularity not by pouring emergency money into paid ads (when is the last time you saw one of their ads, if ever?); the fuel to their fire is the fact that users are so excited about the product that they’re pushing into new markets. Otherwise known as product-led growth.
But there’s a right way and a wrong way to encourage users to spread the word. Today’s startups are having to reassess how they build trusting relationships with consumers with shrinking wallets and all-new demands, and who, like all of us, are particularly vulnerable emotionally.
Many founders seek quick solutions by diving headfirst into “growth hacks,” such as flash messaging or misleading promotions. While these might get people’s (annoyed) attention, they don’t create long-term, loyal customers that will stick with you through the recession. Aggressive tactics ultimately devalue a company’s brand as users associate it with the wrong qualities. Businesses have to offer a real solution, not just the promise of one.
If those invasive strategies ring true to your company, the likelihood is you don’t know your customer–or your product–as well as you should. Growing your business with your users’ wellbeing in mind, rather than your bottom line, means connecting with the genuine value you’re giving people and evolving alongside them.
Here are four tips to drive product-led growth in an ethical manner:
Building your product for a small user group
Founders often go too broad with their target markets, which leads to overspending, generic messaging, and high acquisition costs due to low retention rates. While thinking big is tempting, it will stretch you in too many directions at this early stage, without building value for consumers. However, if you start by honing in on a small user group, you’ll connect intimately with them, understand what they want from you, and how their behavior may be changing.
Start by identifying a small batch of people who are using your product regularly. Spend time creating a personality profile for them, which gets to grips with their pain points in day-to-day life, how they’ve been affected by the pandemic, what their desires are, and what needs aren’t being met.
If you successfully tailor your product to them you can turn them into power users who will enthusiastically promote your product to others; they’ll be emotionally invested because the product invested in them as a person. For example, Dropbox’s file-sharing tool quickly saw early traction in its targeted tech communities of product and graphic designers who found it easy to sync and share their visuals using the software. By 2008, Dropbox users were recommending the product to others via a referral system so effective that it saw the company grow 3,900 percent over 15 months, and eventually conquer the cloud storage world.
This process may take longer, but its returns are far superior. And on the way you will understand the true value your product can give people, and stay honest to those users.
As your initial user base feeds you data on how they’re using your product, when, why, or why not, listen. Building value doesn’t mean pushing your ideas down people’s throats; let them tell you what your product’s value is. If what your users get out of your product is not what you had planned–for example, it’s a minor feature rather than the main event–pivot and optimize your offering for their benefit.
For instance, one of the tech startups in our accelerator program had a number of different features to help students with tasks like organizing their planners and decluttering email inboxes. In the early days, people were downloading the app but then losing interest, so we pushed the startup to study their metrics and really see what people were coming to them for. The one thing really users valued turned out to be the declutter email function. The company focused on gathering client feedback on that function and it became their unique selling point.
The key takeaway here is to spend time with people before you develop a product for them. Yes, look at the granular data, but also interview them, send out surveys, and ask for honesty. Above all, if the time comes, discard your preconceived notions of what you wanted your product to be (which is tough but necessary for founders).
Showcase your value early on
Once you have an idea of where your product’s value lies, your users need to be able to clearly see it on first contact, without having to implicitly trust your brand to get there. Onboarding is a tightrope, and if you can’t showcase solutions to people’s problems, users will quickly fall off.
Still, immediate value doesn’t mean sprinting them through the purchase or subscription; quite the opposite. Not long ago, businesses would prioritize seamless onboarding with little more than an email needed to create a user profile. Now, the journey is more conscientious and drawn out in order to educate the user and give something back to them. That doesn’t mean educating the user about the product, but rather about themselves and the problems they face: Remember, consumers always come to a product to seek a solution to an issue. For example, a health care platform’s onboarding could lead the user through a quiz about their eating habits and then attribute them to a dietary category, without producing a pay wall first.
You could also let users experience your tool free of charge. Companies doing this include business productivity tools Airtable and Notion, which offer users basic pre-built templates. This saves users time by guiding them through the functionalities of the product before they decide if it’s right for their company.
A more in-depth onboarding allows you to establish a relationship with users straight away. Over the subsequent days, you can nurture that relationship with exclusive offerings such as emails with expert tips, free 1-month subscriptions to partner businesses for paying customers, or online community events. These simple techniques will give you invaluable data on what sticks and what doesn’t, helping you construct your brand from the ground up. These early adopters will also not be shy to recommend your product because it focuses on giving rather than taking.
A diverse team is the foundation of a people-oriented product. Product-led growth is all about responding to your users, and you can’t do that unless your company is a reflection of the society in which those users live.
By actively driving diversity as you grow your team, each area of your business will be equipped to create an accessible, inclusive and scalable user experience. Even if your product is less consumer-facing, such as deep-tech startups, having a team from all walks of life is essential to avoid damaging scenarios like biased artificial intelligence (remember when Amazon had to abandon its AI recruitment tool because it discriminated against women?).
Your customers will reward you if you make the effort. Consumers care about company culture and products that are representative of everyone involved in building them. In fact, customers will actively change how they buy based on these criteria, so diversity makes sense from both an ethical and business standpoint.
Ethics are at the core of today’s societal movements, and businesses are just as much under the spotlight as governments. Companies must acknowledge the need to move away from aggressive or misleading tactics towards consumers, see them as people, and put them first. Those people will grow to love you, and become willing ambassadors for your brand.
Related Posts
If your Product Manager is emotionally intelligent, your products will be too
by
Jul 27, 2021
by
Apr 30, 2020
Founders and Product Management: A startup story
by
Dec 17, 2019
Product Management: keys to set you up for success.
by
Jan 23, 2019
by
Apr 30, 2020
The 5 ways Product Management prepares you to be a successful CEO
by
Apr 23, 2019
We invest in early stage, mission driven and diverse founders. Capital is not enough. We share our expertise and work together as one team, one dream.
| 8,598 |
When you decide to go to bbcon, you’re making a big time and resource investment—one that will expose you to new ideas and people and hopefully inspire you when you return to work.
Think of me as your guide for the higher ed experience at bbcon. I’m a 17-time bbcon vet and have spoken 23 times at bbcons worldwide. We’re so excited you’re joining us in Nashville this year, and we want to make sure you get as much out of it as you can. Here’s my advice for how to get the most out of bbcon and I can’t wait to see you there!
Higher ed is the largest group represented at the conference with nearly 1,000 attendees representing private and public 2-year and 4-year institutions. You’re guaranteed to meet peers from departments all across campus- including advancement, marketing, financial aid, academic leadership and more.
I really recommend that you get to the conference early, check in and get the lay of the land. The Gaylord in Nashville is gigantic and sprawling. It’s one of the biggest conference areas I’ve been to- so plan accordingly. This isn’t the week to break in new shoes—we’ll be keeping you busy and on the move.
Tuesday, October 15
The conference officially kicks off with breakfast and a keynote presentation from four-time Emmy award-nominated actress and humanitarian Connie Britton. Throughout her career, Britton has devoted much of her time to a wide range of charity work both in the United States and internationally. Her message with resonate with everyone in the social good sphere- both professionally and personally.
After hearing from Connie Britton, we break into our Super Sessions. For the Higher Ed Super Session, panelists from Brown University, CASE, Colgate University, and University of South Carolina will join Tim Hill, president and GM of Blackbaud Higher Education Solutions, to discuss talent management, diversity and inclusion programs, the importance of communicating your institution’s value, and more.
Following the Super Sessions, attendees then head to their selected breakout sessions for the remainder of the afternoon. Join Tim Hill and myself right after lunch for the Higher Education Strategy and Solution Showcase- we will be sharing more about our higher education roadmap and plans, exciting announcements and how to learn more year-round. Yes, Tuesday will be an intense first day, but that’s not all we have planned. Later that evening we hope you join us for the Celebration Event which features live music by Sixwire, who just performed at the NFL draft, and special guest Phil Vassar. Food and drink will be served– with plenty of dancing, music and fun. Cowboy hats and boots optional but definitely encouraged.
Wednesday, October 16
You’re going to want to have your alarm set on Wednesday morning. After grabbing breakfast and some early AM networking, check out the technology main stage session at 9:45 a.m. Dwight Dozier, CIO at Georgia Tech Foundation, will join on the main stage to discuss the Foundation’s experience of transitioning to the cloud with Blackbaud CRM and how it will benefit the Foundation in the future. This is main stage action you’ll want to hear from the front row!
The rest of Wednesday’s sessions are breakouts—this day will go smoother for you if you’ve had time prior to the event to chart out which presentations are most useful. In between, feel free to check out the Innovation Expo Hall, where you’ll find swag, lounge space, product demos, and product experts ready to answer your questions. Come say hi to us at the Higher Education Booth—where you’ll have the opportunity to get a new professional headshot, learn more about contributing thought leadership or sharing a success story (like via npENGAGE!), and meet and greet session presenters.
After a marathon run of presentations, we’ll be serving a happy hour with food and drink in the Innovation Expo Hall. Please join us to finish up the day.
Thursday, October 17
Thursday is a shorter day. It starts with a power up snack break, then we’ll hear from our closing main-stage keynote, enjoy a little brunch, and end the afternoon with two breakout sessions. If you’ve not yet picked up some swag, there’s no time like the present. For the last day of the conference, the Innovation Expo Hall is only open from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
With more than 250 breakout sessions, how can you possibly pick which sessions to prioritize? Since I’ve been to quite a few bbcons, I’ve picked up a few tricks to narrowing your options to the sessions that will be the most impactful for your work:
Picking your sessions. There are 31 sessions included in the higher education track, but this doesn’t mean you have to pick this track and stick with it. We try to give attendees a mix of session topics that include thought leadership, onboarding, maintaining empowered users, and filling operational gaps with tech. Over half of our higher ed bbcon presentations feature a customer voice to help you approach specific problems, get results, or leverage technology effectively at the advice of your peers. Our end goal is to provide a variety of presentations that pique your interest and leave you with actionable insight to take back to your institution.
Map out a session grid. I recommend that you ask yourself what do you want to get out of bbcon? This will help you pick your sessions. Do you want to hear about technology? Do you want to hear from peers? Deciding what’s valuable to your work versus what’s just merely interesting will help you narrow down your choices. It’s much easier to approach the conference with an outline of what sessions you plan to attend beforehand.
Last minute change of plans. You don’t need to pre-register for any of the bbcon main or breakout sessions so you can change your mind day-of as needed. I also want to reassure you that it’s ok to change your mind even if you are sitting in the session. If that session isn’t for you, politely leave. We’d rather you attend a session that you liked and provided you what you wanted to get out of it. I assure you that the presenters will not be offended if you make a quiet exit to another session.
Blackbaud University Day. If you’re attending Blackbaud University Day, then you know that these sessions you should have already registered for. It’s on Monday (Oct. 14) and is designed as a workshop session to help you build your skills using Blackbaud solutions. For those planning on spending the extra day, this is an opportunity to brush up on your skills, get questions answered, or simply learn new tricks to make your work easier and more effective.
bbcon Mobile App – Download the Blackbaud Events app to access the bbcon 2019 mobile app. With the app you’ll be able to curate your own personal agenda, interact with other attendees using photo share, private messaging, and discussion boards, receive real-time notifications and updates on-site at bbcon, and more.
Visit the Higher Ed Booth – We’ll be there to answer any question you might have – from site logistics, session inquiries, to questions about our solutions – we can help you on the spot or point you in the right direction to who can.
Take Advantage of the Networking Opportunities – It’s a rare moment to find hundreds of peers in the same space. The conference provides many informal networking opportunities, like during lunches, the Celebration Event, or even wearing your school gear.
Stop by the #bbcon Lounge – your one-stop spot to relax, recharge, and learn in a casual environment. There will be plenty of charging stations, pop-up sessions, and live sgENGAGE podcast recordings throughout.
Don’t Forget Your Business Cards – Like direct mail, the exchange of business cards is not dead. Make sure your new connections know how to contact you.
Create a Conference Report – Share a going-to-conference plan with your manager to help justify your attendance. When you return, write up your most important takeaways and what actions you’re taking as a result. This will also help you justify bbcon 2020.
We want to create a great experience for you. There will be networking, the opportunity to learn new skills, and approach problems from new angles based on the experiences of your peers. You’ll also get to hear more about Blackbaud solutions and chat with experts.
I love how Kim Rich, Executive Director of Advancement Services at the Medical University of South Carolina sums up the event: “I come to bbcon to see the road maps, to understand where the products and services are going. There’s always exciting news, and it also gives me an opportunity to network with my peers and with the Blackbaud team, the data people who get it and who are always creating solutions for tomorrow.”
We’ll see you there!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
As the Director of Vertical Marketing and Strategy for Blackbaud’s Higher Education Solutions group, Tiffany is accountable for leading the strategic management and execution of the team’s go-to-market strategy across the entire higher education landscape in North America. Key areas of responsibility include the strategic planning, commercialization and go-to-market execution of launching solutions and services to meet the ever-changing needs of Higher Education institutions. Additionally, Tiffany leads the team that evaluates and introduces new solutions to the market to affect the entire income stream on campus through partnership and acquisition- one recent example is the acquisition of AcademicWorks scholarship and award management solution into the Blackbaud portfolio in April 2017.
Tiffany maintains a strong commitment to nonprofit leadership and has served on a number of nonprofit boards and steering committees supporting her alma mater, mentorship programs for women beginning careers in Marketing and Technology as well as organizations combatting the many issues that arise with hunger and homelessness in our community. Tiffany currently serves as the Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Lowcountry Food Bank.
Cathy Spencer says:
Oct 9, 2019 at 3:50 pm
Oct 11, 2019 at 3:57 pm
Thank you for taking the time to put this together. This gives me something to reference back to since most of the conferences that I attend are of a narrow scope. I need to get my wide lens on!
Oct 9, 2019 at 3:50 pm
KaLeigh says:
Oct 9, 2019 at 3:54 pm
These are excellent tips. I forgot business cards last year, and I figured out how much I missed last year after the fact!
Oct 9, 2019 at 3:57 pm
Great tips! I would add downloading the app for the Gaylord to help you navigate around. Last year in Florida, it was very confusing at times because they reversed the escalators based on the travel patterns of the attendees. Knowing your way around will help you get to the sessions you want to attend and make a pit stop if you need too before they start.
Tiffany Crumpton says:
Oct 11, 2019 at 11:06 am
Yes, the Gaylord in Nashville is HUGE. Great tip. Thanks for sharing!
Oct 9, 2019 at 3:58 pm
These are all great tips!
Oct 9, 2019 at 4:01 pm
Thanks for sharing such detailed tips! Hope to see you all in Nashville! Aloha.
Oct 9, 2019 at 4:22 pm
Becky says:
Oct 9, 2019 at 4:28 pm
Thanks for the tips, Tiffany! I especially appreciate knowing that the conference area is expansive… I will leave my high heels at home
| 11,708 |
Songs are a great means of learning a language: they are fun to listen to, a great confidence-boosting experience if students can understand parts, useful for pronunciation, and thanks to their catchy melodies, really easy to memorise.
Here are some activity ideas with songs we have for you to exploit the many many opportunities songs offer:
Ask a learner to tap the rhythm of a song or nursery rhyme everyone is familiar with. Can the class find out which song it was?
If tapping out the rhythm is too challenging, they can hum the tune as well. In both cases, sing the song together after the activity.
This can be a great warm-up activity for new topics.
What else does Old MacDonald have on his farm?
What else did the three little kittens lose? Who else is swimming in the sea besides the shark family?
Gather ideas and continue the songs!
You may want to use the karaoke version of these well-known songs in the BOOKR Class library, too.
3. Who is the loudest?
Form two groups who stand in two separate lines 20 metres away from each other. One learner stands between the two groups.
Each group has to choose a song to sing at the same time. Which song can the learner in the middle recognise first?
4. Train your students’ listening skills with songs!
Everybody loves listening to music in their free time, so ask each student to write their favourite song on a piece of paper, pick one weekly and create a listening task with a gap-filling exercise from the lyrics.
5. Can you do better?
Encourage your learners to tap into their potential and rewrite lyrics of popular songs. Can they turn simple sentences into more sophisticated texts? Can they change the trivial content into something meaningful? Turn text analysis into a creative writing task.
+1 From song to letter
Choose a song the artist may have written as a direct message to somebody.
It can be a love song, a mad song or a song asking for an apology.
Listen to the song and check the lyrics together with the class.
Then, ask them to write a letter on behalf of the singer in which they formally express all the singer’s feelings and emotions.
| 2,181 |
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.