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Our second week starts with us having to check out early from the Sheraton, but we hang around for a few hours by the pool as we can't check in until 4pm in the Westgate Lakeside Resort. So the car is packed, somehow, and we enjoy the afternoon by the lovely pool and get a lunch. I think our second week will be more leisurely, enjoying the pool and the parks and less shopping. We check in and this time skip the invitation to a free breakfast I never saw anyone withdraw his offers of cheap lunches and other stuff so quick when he heard us refuse. Anyway we check out our new pad, it's bright, airy and large with a nice patio out to the pool which is just outside the door only question is it going to be very noisy.
It's Eimear's today and she decides we will head to the movies but I've covered all this.
A latish morning for the girls and I'm proved wrong straight away as they decide to go shopping again after a big brunch in Perkins. Will it ever stop, I'll just have to put up with it. We're tired of eating out so dinner in tonight!
I don't know if it's the time of year, the schools being off, the weather or the recession but the parks are not as busy as we expected. For our next visit to Universal we decide to head over late, about 2.30pm we arrive. The perceived wisdom for the parks is to arrive early to get on the good rides. But we head straight to Hogsmeade and Harry Potter ride or whatever it's called and it's only a 45 minute wait. But it is well worth it, it has to be the best ride in the park, highly recommended and a must. We do a load of the good rides in Islands of Adventure and the wait times are great, including only 10 minutes for the Hulk.
To be honest at this stage all the days get confusing and I can't remember what we did on what days and even in what weeks. In the Studios one of my favourite rides is the "Disasters", a new ride since we were here 5 years ago. There is some good stage acting by our guide, some nifty special effects with Christopher Walkin who acts as a director of this supposed new disaster movie. It's very well done and good craic. The Simpsons ride has taken over the old "Back to the Future" slot, and Men in Black is still good fun.
We have had some spectacular thunder storms in the evening and nights. It's a long time since I've seen such amazing lightning, huge bursts across the sky and then when the rain comes it is torrential and very hard to drive in.
We have another day in Seaworld to catch the Shamu show the girls have their last go on Kracken and we head to SeaWorlds new water park Aquatica where the girls passed away a good few hours on the water rides. At this stage well parked out I think 10 days in Orlando is enough and then to head to the coast for a relaxing time on the lovely beaches, reading, sunning, walking and good food and drink. In the past we've done the Gulf Coast and its great along there.
All in all a great holiday but looking forward to getting home and heading to Spain for the month of July!


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About Addiction Medicine SpecialistsFind a Doctor
Addiction medicine doctors treat patients with a variety of addictions and addiction-related illness, from substance withdrawal to intervention and rehabilitation. These specialists may also involve other related areas of medicine along with their main practice including psychiatry, internal medicine and family medicine.
Addiction and substance abuse can encompass dependence on nicotine, tobacco, alcohol, drugs, opioids and prescription medications. Specialists in addiction medicine provide and are qualified in many forms of treatment for addictive disorders, offering help to patients in the form of medically assisted detoxification and treatment of withdrawal symptoms, rehabilitation programs, intervention, harm reduction and continuing treatment for the prevention of relapse.
Addiction specialists work to prevent and treat not only the physical complications of addiction but the mental and emotional health of the patient as well. The effects of addiction on health can include both short-term and long-term physical and psychological including the risk of overdose, contracting a communicable disease, mental health issues as well as social and economic problems.
Due to the multi-faceted nature of treatment required within addiction medicine, these doctors can specialize in addiction medicine and addiction psychiatry including knowledge in the specializations of Psychology, counseling, Psychiatry and Internal medicine.
Patients can be referred to an Addiction Medicine specialist from their Family Doctor/General Practitioner to seek expert treatment and undergo testing and evaluation to determine the presence or extent of an addiction. This process can include blood tests to see if the substance is found in the patients system and to determine what substances are being used.

subset: commoncrawl


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We are a unique private multidisciplinary outpatient clinic based in the picturesque surroundings of Galgorm. Our Consultant Psychiatrists hold Consultant Posts in Northern Ireland and have a wide range of specialist skills and experience. We recognise that every patient is unique and therefore our assessments and treatment plans are tailor-made to suit each patients needs. Our multidisciplinary team approach will ensure that you will be assessed by the most suitable member of our Team. Our Consultant Psychiatrists have specialist skills in the areas of General Adult Psychiatry, Substance Misuse, Rehabilitation and Recovery and in Psychiatry for Older Adults (over the age of 65).
Our Clinic also offers a unique Multidisciplinary Assessment and Diagnostic Service for Children.
We are delighted to offer Specialist Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Specialist Clinical Psychology Services.
Please don't hesitate to contact us to discuss your requirements.
Our Consultants are delighted to accept referrals from GPs. We offer appointments within days of receipt of your referral. We will contact you following your patient's assessment/appointment and keep you updated regarding any recommendations for treatment and progress.
You can write a referral letter and/or download and complete our referral form below and then send to Galgorm Private Clinic by post or email. We request that all email referrals are sent password protected.
Download a Referral form here
All our Consultants are experienced in providing medico-legal Services. We provide expert medical reports for a wide range of work including (but not limited to) Personal Injury, Clinical Negligence, Mental Capacity Assessments etc. Please contact us by Telephone, Email or in writing to discuss your requirements. We aim to provide a fast response and turnaround time for all reports.
- Assessments / Opinions for Occupational Health
- 2nd Opinions
- Home visits can be arranged upon request - please contact us to discuss
Please note that Galgorm Private Clinic is not an emergency service and does not provide emergency assessments.
If you require urgent help or assessment then please contact your local GP or GP out of hours service.
Bipolar disorders
Schizophrenia and other psychosis
Post-traumatic stress
Substance misuse
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder in Adults
Autism Spectrum Disorder in Children
This list is not exhaustive. We treat a wide range of psychiatric illnesses, so please contact us to discuss your requirements.
Galgorm Private Clinic is conveniently located in the picturesque surroundings of Galgorm, just on the outskirts of Ballymena. It is close to Galgorm Castle and golf course and Galgorm Resort and spa and provides ample, free, off-street parking right outside our front door. Our clinic is easily accessible from Belfast and the south via the M2 and A26 and from the north and north west also via the A26. We are only a short taxi ride from Ballymena bus and rail stations. Please see our map for further details.
number 5
galgorm court
bt42 1gq


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If you've read about or studied Search Engine Optimization (SEO), then you've most likely have heard the term "backlink.' In fact, the word is usually thrown around by SEO experts when discussing your website and not explained any further. So, what is a backlink besides a techy-sounding word? And why are they such an essential component on your website?
Backlinks link back to your website
Backlinks are exactly what they sound like…any link in or on a website page that directs "or links" back to your website/page. They also help your website gain higher ranking on Google searches.
Backlinks are also called incoming links, inbound links, inlinks, or inward links. If you have links on your websites or web page going to another website/page these are called outgoing links, outbound links, outlinks, or outward links. Conversely, an inbound link for your website is considered outbound link for that website's owner and vice versa.
Good backlinks vs. Bad Backlinks
The quickest way to lower your ranking is to have bad backlinks that come from unrelated and untrusted sources. A good backlink should use keywords or a keyword phrase that matches what your customers are searching for. A great backlink also has that same theme or similar content topic as your own website.
Use SEO keywords in your backlinks
Those keywords used in your backlink should be identified from a search engine optimization of your website and should match the words and phrases ranked highest by Google from people who search online for your product or service.
According to Net Market Share (as of October 2017) the global marketing share percentage, in terms of the use of Search Engines heavily favors Google, with over 80%.1 For this reason, backlinks remain one of the strongest ranking signals in Google's search algorithm.
And here's another big kicker about backlinks—the more you have on your website the higher ranking you get on Google. To further emphasize the point, according to Backlinko, the #1 ranking post on Google always had the most backlinks.
The more backlinks the better
But that doesn't mean you can get any type of backlink. Plus, the number of referring domains is a big factor. In other words, you just can't post a ton of backlinks to one site and go home. You must have backlinks from diverse sources—meaning the more individual sites that link to you, the better.
Higher domain authority backlinks raise your ranking
It's also important to remember that Google looks at the quality of these links as well to determine the importance of a website. If you can get more backlinks from sites with higher domain authority, you're going to get a lot more link mojo.
What's an authoritative website? The WashingtonPost.com, for instance, is considered an authority on the news. For sports it's ESPN.com. For automotive, a great example would be autonews.com. For food it's foodindustry.com just to name a few. So as authoritative sites give you links, Google sees your site as authoritative, too—thus, upping your ranking.
Top ways to increase your website ranking using backlinks
In summary, here's what you need regarding backlinks to have true success and higher impact on your ranking:
- Upping your total backlink amount
- Getting many diverse websites linking to you
- Obtaining links from high domain authority sites
- Offering relevant page content that also matches SEO keywords or phrases
As you have probably deduced, building quality backlinks takes a lot of effort and time. It isn't just a one-and-done type of operation. To get it right, ongoing dedication and expertise is needed.
Does your website have backlinks that increase your SEO ranking and presence on the internet? Do those backlinks help answer questions and help customers with their buying decision as they research your product or service?
Developing a relevant and workable SEO strategy with an emphasis on backlinks is perhaps the most important aspect of a successful content-driven approach to building traffic to your website.
Xynergy's SEO experts can help your website attract the right customers while increasing your Google ranking. Call 505-557-7780 or email us today.


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"Bath towels are available in various types, sizes and designs. They are utilized in almost all families. However, quality bath linens are capable of drying out the hands and body very easily without demanding multiple scrubs. They are generally very soft, eye-catching and sober in colours."
Bath towels are something which is utilized in virtually any household in the country. A quality towel will be one that is able to dry the hands and body softly without requiring multiple scrubs. For this reason, the property of absorption is at the core of a good quality towel. It comes with an array of bath towels in the market nowadays since the manufacturers try to introduce new products all the time. Despite the wide range of towels obtainable in markets worldwide, you can still find a few that are considered to be the best.
There are numerous kinds of towels, designed for different situations. The fabrics found in making towels will vary, depending on what they're designed for. For a towel to be effective and quality, it should use the right material for the given goal. The following are some types that are very popular to homeowners.
Egyptian towels
Egyptian cotton has long staples. These lengthy staples have far better absorbent quality. These are really soft, durable and comfortable. Egyptian towels absorb water with a single scrub. Customers do not need to scrub frequently. As the name suggests, the cotton is produced in Egypt. As Egyptian towels could assure luxurious feelings, many reputable spas use these as favourite bath linens.
Organic cotton
From its name, we could reckon that organic cotton is made in the most organic way. Just the green and environmentally friendly materials are used for its cultivation. As a result, these towels are hygienic. It doesn't have harmful impact on our skin and body. These cotton bath towels are healthy, soft and sturdy.
Pima cotton
Just like Egyptian bath towels generally have long staples, and that's why they are accepted as good. As per history, pima cotton is grown in the south western states of the United States of America. It must be noted that Egyptian towels tend to be more expensive than pima cotton towels because of the better qualities of luxuriousness and absorbency.
You'll find towels which contain synthetic material in them. These kind of towels, even though low in quality and luxuriousness, are especially attractive because of the number of designs that they can offer. Some individuals choose them over other types due to the price.
Bath towels give your bathroom a fresh new clean look plus they feel great if you choose the right choice for your needs. Whatever your preference for colour, shape or style of bath towel you should always make an effort to buy the very best quality that your budget allows, as with most things in life acquiring cheap is a false economy over time and in the short term will not be as luxuriant to use.


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Database Management started business in 1985 as a computer records processor company. As times changed, so did Database Management. Systems integration of computer hardware, custom software applications and advanced networking became the direction of the company. By the 1990's home and business computer markets had grown and Database Management stared to provide computer hardware and services. In 1991, Database Management opened a store front location in Winnfield, Louisiana -- dbm Computers. dbm Computers' mission is to provide dependable, affordable and quality solutions that are focused on the customer's success.
dbm Computers offers SMB to enterprise IT services. Over thirty years of providing specialty IT services to manufacturing, industrial, healthcare and banking industries.
Solutions for IT since 1985
dbm Computers
108 S. Jones Street
Winnfield, LA 71483
318-628-1511 / phone
Monday-Friday 9am - 5pm


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Farmers have chosen not to support two Meat Industry Excellence (MIE) Farmer Remits debated at the Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ Ltd) Annual Meeting held at Waitangi, Northland, last week.
The first MIE remit was: "That Beef + Lamb New Zealand Ltd endorse and fund all professional costs incurred by Meat Industry Excellence (MIE) to continue developing and implementing the savings and positive opportunities as identified by MIE in the farmer-funded "Pathways to Long Term Sustainability Report".
Electionz.com who conducted the vote on behalf of B+LNZ said that the first remit was lost on a vote of 75 per cent against and 23 per cent in favour.
The second MIE remit: "That the two positions of processor representation on Beef + Lamb New Zealand Ltd be removed and replaced initially with two directors from Meat Industry Excellence (MIE)" also failed with 76 per cent of voters against and 20 per cent in favour.
The voting breakdown was:-


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The word "frog" may be used to refer to five different things, including stout-bodied amphibians, a horse's hoof elastic pad, a person of French descent, the nut positioned at the end of a violin bow and a decorated loop of braid. The most common usage is the former.
The word "frog" is mostly used in reference to a group of tailless and stout-bodied amphibians. However, it can also be used to refer to other things, so context should be considered.
The nut positioned at the end of a violin bow is known as a bow frog. It is used to regulate the tension of the string or hair ribbons attached to the bow before playing. Frog is also used to refer to a triangular, elastic pad that is attached to the bottom of a horse's hoof for use as a shock absorber. In the hair and beauty industry, frog refers to a hairstyle characterized by loops of braided hair strands.
Albeit not widely used, the word frog is also associated with people of French descent. It stems from a unique trait associated with the laughing habits of the French, in which the Adam's apple tends to bulge out like a frog. Other people associate the usage of the word with the French's love for frog-legs. However, it is important to note that the word "frog" is considered an insult when used in this context.


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The World is like a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.
– Saint Augustine
Once the travel bug bites, there is no known antidote.
– Michael Palin
– Ernest Hemingway
Travel brings power and love back into your life.
– Rumi
We travel, some of us forever, to seek other places, other lives, other souls …
-Anais Nin
Two roads diverged … and I took the road less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.
-Robert Frost
Travel light, live light, spread the light, be the light.
– Yogi Bhajan
One Yoga Global is a community of seekers, teachers, adventurers, thought leaders, change-makers, friends, yoga students and everyday people with a heartfelt desire to travel, learn, live deeply, and become more conscious global citizens.
If you're ready to change your perspective, refuel your tank, meet a tribe of like-minded folk, and be inspired beyond your imagination – you've landed in the right place.
Welcome to our global community. We're grateful that you're here.
– Joan B.
–Travis W.
– Lynsey D.
– Joe V.


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Church Find welcomes to Churches Midlands and the North Oaks Australia, we offer religious places with our professional team, locate your provider today from our extensive range of listings.
Address: 94 Meander Valley Road, Westbury TAS 7303
Address: 'Parklands' 53 Franklin Street,, Westbury TAS 7303
copyright © 2019 Church Find. All rights reserved.


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Graduation weekend was great! It all started on Saturday with an award ceremony for all the graduates being recognized by their departments. Chloe got the Outstanding Student Research award for the Psychology Department! It came with a cash award and her name was added to a plaque that will hang in the Psychology Department for posterity.
My parents were able to join us for the weekend. We are all proud of Chloe's accomplishments and happy that we could be there to celebrate.
Sunday morning dawned bright and sunny and quickly got very hot! Everyone was really broiling in the sun.
Chloe wasn't sure until the last minute that she was going to graduate Summa Cum Laude. The college changed the way they divide the top tiers of honor this year. She was so happy to see that she had!
Her mortar board was decorated to show her love of Linfield College. She made many lasting friendships with both students and professors and I'm sure she'll stay in touch with them for a long, long time.
Graduates and professors on the steps of the Psychology Department.
Chloe and Caitlyn met the very first day as they were roommates for the first two years. It's amazing to see how these two shy and uncertain freshman have blossomed over the past 4 years.
After a graduation dinner we came back to the RV park for champagne, cake and gifts.
And here's the graduation quilt: Wings to Fly! She really likes it. Although she chose the fabric, she didn't have any idea what the design would be. I chose to make improv feathers and surround them with more improv. I have no idea why people would make feathers with a pattern, but I'll have more to say about that soon!
I did a lot of quilting on this one and I only got a few photos before I washed it. The quilting doesn't show up as well on a washed quilt, but I wanted it to be super cozy right off the bat. I haven't done this before, but on this one I decided to quilt some words into the design, but unobtrusively. It says, For Chloe, Love Mom, 2015.
Wings to Fly
55 x 55
machine pieced and quilted


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Videos by Matthew & Jessica Wahlstrom - MJ Home Sales - Pearson Smith Realty in Ashburn. Full service Realtors licensed in VA, D.C. & MD!
Sneak peek 👀 of our new 🏡! Full reveal video coming soon! ➕ DIY project videos!
Stay tuned! 📡
SPECIAL THANKS TO MY BOY @chris_gerrish - for the drone footage🛸
🖋Our mission is to offer our clients the best professional service possible, while still having fun! • MJ Home Sales- Making Real Estate Fun Again!
🚩Quick video update on our house. Still so much to do, but our vision for this house is coming to fruition. Our color palette for the house is working well, and I love the wood stain color we used. (Special Walnut) Comment below and tell us what you think of the renovations we've done so far! 👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻 *song* Introspection: written by MW
🗯Hey Guys, did you know that twice a year the sun will set perfectly in line with the Manhattan street grid? @neildegrassetyson refers to it as Manhattanhenge! So interesting! I learned about this on the Joe Rogan podcast! Episode 1159 ! Check it out! Neil is such an incredible mind! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 #billionsandbillions #manhattanhenge #truestory pretty awesome! Happy Friday!!!
❄Preparing in Winter to Buy/Sell in Spring🍂
❄❄We know it's freezing outside but if you are motivated to buy or sell a home this spring, now is the time to start preparing❄❄ If you are motivated, we can help! Send us a message 👇🏻here to inquire, you'll love the way we work. 🏡SELLING👇🏻 🗯Ask about our "pre-marketing" campaign to learn how to maximize your profits in less time! 🏡BUYING👇🏻 🗯Ask about our first time home buyer credit! 🏡EVERYONE 👇🏻 Ask about complimentary access to our Hot Homes Search Engine. It's better than Zillow or Trulia and it's fully complimentary. MJ Homes Sales / Pearson Smith Realty 703-863-7357 [email protected] MJHomeSalesVA.com
🚧ANOTHER UPDATE🚧 Electrical/HDMI installed-✔ Shiplap installed-✔ Fireplace brick primed-✔ Time to paint. We went with a color by Sherwin Williams called "Morning Dew" in a flat finish. We wanted a darker color than our walls ( Repose Grey), but also wanted to add a little blue to it. Morning Dew was perfect! Next step is to install the TV mount, build the Mantle and floating shelves! STAY TUNED...... if you care.... if not, no worries! 🙏🏻🙏🏻😂
So this was my first stab at shiplap. So here is what we did.👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻 1. I removed the mantle, (see previous video) and then removed some of the 3/4" plywood wall paneling so that I could install the electrical & HDMI cables. 2. Chipped off two layers of the brick to account for mantel and the TV wall mount. 3. Primed the brick (prepare to paint) 4. I bought ten , 12 foot by 6" wide, nickel gap-primed, tongue & groove boards from @homedepot - they were under $10 per piece! So the total cost for the wood was roughly $70! However, I also returned some stuff and got a $68 store credit card! #boom 🔥👌🏻 5. My dad @can8tiv and I then proceeded to install the shiplap. We had to put a short trim strip at the top to prevent the shiplap from hitting the crown molding! After I prime and paint it, you won't even notice....(hopefully) 😬 - At the time of writing this, (Monday night)...late AF! 😳 I am planing on finishing the shiplap and first coat of paint on the brick tomorrow. We still have to 👇🏻 • Make and install the mantel and floating shelves. • Paint the bricks...again. 😵🔫 • Install the tv bracket • Remove the wood stove. • Decorate .....................🚧...................... STAY TUNED!
So this was my first stab at shiplap. So here is what we did.👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻 1. I removed the mantle, (see previous video) and then removed some of the 3/4" plywood wall paneling so that I could install the electrical & HDMI cables. 2. Chipped off two layers of the brick to account for mantel and the TV wall mount. 3. Primed the brick (prepare to paint) 4. I bought ten , 12 foot by 6" wide, nickel gap-primed, tongue & groove boards from The Home Depot - they were under $10 per piece! So the total cost for the wood was roughly $70! However, I also returned some stuff and got a $68 store credit card! #boom 🔥👌🏻 5. My dad @can8tiv and I then proceeded to install the shiplap. We had to put a short trim strip at the top to prevent the shiplap from hitting the crown molding! After I prime and paint it, you won't even notice....(hopefully) 😬 - At the time of writing this, (Monday night)...late AF! 😳 I am planing on finishing the shiplap and first coat of paint on the brick tomorrow. We still have to 👇🏻 • Make and install the mantel and floating shelves. • Paint the bricks...again. 😵🔫 • Install the tv bracket • Remove the wood stove. • Decorate .....................🚧...................... STAY TINED!
🏠Fairfax Hot Homes List - Under $500k!🏠
🏠FAIRFAX HOT MARKET ALERT🏠 We have created a FREE list of Fairfax homes all under $500,000! These are the hottest listings right now. Our Hot List updates itself every hour and keeps you ahead of the market. Some of these homes even qualify for special financing! . **Simply send us a quick message for Hot List Access** . Happy Holidays!!!!!
So a little different video this time folks! 🚧🚧With all the renovations we've been doing, I wanted our followers to know that beneath all the HGTV home renovations, 🏚▶🏠 insane real estate deals and business Inquires🗯💭💬 , we are just your average everyday family! 📌Now, It just so happens that I've run restaurants before and am a pretty damn good cook, so I tend to handle the heavy-lifting when it comes to food at our house. ☝🏻 BUT, what A lot of people don't know that @rachaelray got her start, shooting short videos of herself preparing food for us and posting them on her myspace page!! (Nostalgia Sigh)... man, how time flys! So glad she was able to use our dinners as a springboard to get her show Rachael Ray Show !! 😄😁😄😁😄😁😄😁😄 📘Tonight's Menu was: * Bun-less all-beef Burgers, sautéed in minced onion & a balsamic glaze reduction ➕(secret seasonings) 🤫 * Thickly sliced & baked sweet potato wedges. * Baked Asparagus with garlic butter aioli. * Homemade double-baked nachos topped with cotija, mozzarella, cheddar and Colby cheese blend. * My famous cilantro & jasmine rice. 🙏🏻 #nashvillestreettacos🙏🏻 Thanks for watching, liking and subscribing!!
For most of Northern Virginia, ❄Winter❄is not the most ideal time to sell a home. However, Winter is a great time to PREPARE to sell in the Spring🌻 🤔So how do you prepare for a successful home sale??🤔 🙋🏻♂- You get a copy of our "Genius Home Sellers Guide" E-Book! ⬅⬅ 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 📌You'll learn: • Stage your home like a pro • Best photo & marketing tips • Handle offers • Manage seller stress • Preparation to move And much, much more!! 📌To get your FREE copy of our 2019 Genius Home Sellers Guide" E-Book, Click the link in our bio. Or visit us online 🌐www.mjhomesalesva.com
MJ Home Sales- making real estate fun again. 📌 licensed in VA, MD & D.C. 📌 Residential/Commercial 📌 Flipping / Funding 👆🏻👆🏻👆🏻👆🏻👆🏻👆🏻👆🏻👆🏻👆🏻
PART 1 of 2 - PAINTING OUR MASTER BEDROOM! 🛌 Quick tips: 1. If you plan on painting your walls, consider getting a corner roller to make cutting in a lot easier! 2. Break the ceiling into sections so that you keep an even coat of paint. 3. Using a 1/2" nap will keep a smooth coat, but will require a lot more dipping. Consider using a 3/4" nap to apply a thicker coat and to hold more paint. 4. Use painters plastic to cover anything that you don't want to get paint on! It can get messy! 5. Use proper lighting to see how even the paint coat is. 6. Use flat paint to prevent any shine. 7. Paint in the same direction that light enters into the room. This helps hide any roller marks. * I used Sherwin Williams Eminence flat white interior acrylic, latex ceiling paint. ⚜⚜⚜⚜⚜⚜⚜⚜⚜ PART 2 OF 2 COMING SOON!! Painting the walls- and my top tips and hacks to help you paint like a pro!👨🏻🎨
🗯Today's DIY was the front door renovarion. I just installed a new August Smart Lock + Connect on the door (which I will review soon)! We will be replacing the entire front door and door frame, so until then, we are keeping the hardware simple and low cost (minus the smart lock of course)😬 My talented wife @jesswahlstromrealtor found an amazing color for some of our interior doors. The color is a combination of three special colors, and cannot be purchased as a fully mixed paint color!! #secretpaint 🤫 Next, I'll be painting the outside of the door and storm door! Stay tuned!!📺📺 📌Thanks for watching and if you liked the video, please like it ♥ - what information would you like to see included in the videos moving forward? ❓❓❓COMMENT BELOW 👇🏻👇🏻
PART 1 of 2 - Quick update: Office walls are painted, and now I am working on painting the built-in shelving unit! STAY TUNED FOR PART 2 of 2 ✌🏻
Just finished painting both of my boys rooms! I tried a few new products and have a few quick tips that might help you during your next home painting project! Quick tip- If you don't mind getting a little paint on the walls ( or you want to tape them off), look for a 3/8" NAP roller that paints into the corner. It will actually say it on the package. It is much easier to roll out the corners, rather than paint them with an angled brush! 👍🏻 • Invest in a 14-18" roller for ceiling painting projects. I used an 18" roller. Keep in mind you will need a large paint trough (which is readily available in major retail spots! • When you paint a room, follow this process. 👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻 1. Paint one coat along the trim and window edges of the room. 2. Roll one coat of paint on a section or wall. 3. Using an angle brush, paint your second coat along the trim in the section you just rolled. Breaking each section down like this will allow you to address any drip spots from the roller (which happens often), as well as blend a second coat into the wall. If you don't break each section up, you run the risk of the paint drips drying and creating more of an issue. • Always apply at least two coats of roller paint. Even with super paint, or cashmere paint from Sherwin Williams requires a second coat! Do it right the first time! Hope that helps! Comment or question below! 📺STAY TUNED FOR MORE MJ HOMES -MILLWOOD MANOR RENOVATION!! @jesswahlstromrealtor @mjhomesales @pearsonsmithrealty @conscioushustle
Project by project, we are slowly chipping away at the renovations! Today I installed air vents and an air return in our unfinished basement. There wasn't any ventilation down there, so we had a musky smell. We also added a dehumidifier, and now the smell is subsiding and the basement feels much more comfortable. • Stay tuned for more videos!!🎥🎥
📌Phase one of our stair renovation. 📌 • Preparing for possible tread replacements, sanding, staining and painting. 👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻 • Remove carpet • Remove carpet pad • Remove carpet tac strips • Remove sharp staples and nails • Dust, check for staples at least 4 times! NOW WE ARE READY TO MOVE INTO PHASE 2! ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ 🚧🏡🚧🏡🚧🏡🚧🏡🚧 📺📺STAY TUNED📺📺 👆🏻👆🏻👆🏻👆🏻👆🏻👆🏻👆🏻👆🏻👆🏻
Sneak peek 👀 of our new 🏡! Full reveal video coming soon! ➕ DIY project videos! Stay tuned! 📡 👈🏻👉🏻 SPECIAL THANKS TO MY BOY @chris_gerrish - for the drone footage🛸
Oh snap. Maybe my girl Zara can really see ghosts.......and augmented reality characters! She's so G🤙🏻
Congrats to our clients and good friends @carltsway and Cindy! Happy to sell, sad to see you go! 😁😢 @jesswahlstromrealtor and I will miss you! 🤙🏻
How can we serve you? ⚜⚜⚜⚜⚜⚜⚜⚜ Buying? Selling? Investing? Finding? Visit us online at www.mjhomesalesva.com Licensed in VA, MD and D.C. . . . . . . . . #millions #sold #award #mjhomesales #video #sellinghomes #mjhomesalesva #realestate #husbandwife #team #mindset #lawsofattraction #thesecret #success #entrepreneur #realtor #selling #tflers #bestpicoftheday #instacool #pearsonsmithrealty #agent #realestatelife
But first. Let [email protected] a selfie! 📸💃🏽📸💃🏽📸💃🏽📸💃🏽📸💃🏽📸
My family always makes me laugh. And unfortunately we are this immature. But hey, we embrace and accept it! 🤷🏻♂
☕☕☕☕☕☕☕☕☕Coffee is the answer to most problems! -FACT ☕☕☕☕☕☕☕☕☕ For help with additional problems, contact a member of our real estate team! www.mjhomesalesva.com
🐰HAPPY EASTER🐰 💕💙💕💙💕💙💕💙💕 Enjoy the day, love your family and show gratitude. This 🌎 needs more love, so let's start today!
🐰HAPPY EASTER🐰 💕💙💕💙💕💙💕💙💕 Enjoy the day, love your family and show gratitude. This 🌎 needs more love, so let's start today!
I been running low, I've been taking my time, I feel like I'm out of my mind, it feels like my life ain't mine! -Who can relate Woo!🎤
Wait for it and listen to the sound.. This is what kids do these days...........apparently... hover board basement spin routine while watching YouTube videos! A whole new level of 🚶🏻♂walking while chewing gum 🍬and patting your head 🙆🏻♂and rubbing your stomach! 👋🏻 #hoverboard #kidsarefunny #kids #technologythesedays #sundayfunday #video #funny #mjhomesales #realestate #tflers #spinning #dizzy #laugh #apple #youtube #youtubekids #toofunny #bestpicture #followtrain
🤘🏻uchi mata🤘🏻 #battlefieldjiujitsu #jiujitsu #bjj #rolling #onthemat #submissiongrappling #choke #armlock #tenthousandhours #brownbelt #noquit #jiujitsusavedmylife #love #jiujitsuislife #train #gainesvillevirginia #greatness #tflers #instagram #instacool #bestpicoftheday #followforfollow #fitfam #exercise #healthylife #jiujitsufitness #shredz #trainhard #thegentleart #greenbelts
✔Day one of two complete! Almost ready for photos 2mrow! Praying for that ☀☀☀☀ The first group of photos were mostly pre-Reno but with some paint. We went in and gave an empty house what we call a "Basic staging makeover). If done correctly and with style, a few little items can transform an empty space into a warm comfortable living space! Our basic staging support is just another added value that we offer our clients. When you work with us, you're not just hiring a Realtors, your hiring marketing and design experts as well! 👑👜👞🕶👢👠 I know the video is long, but Muchas gracias to anyone who gets through the whole thing! For more information on our services, visit us online at www.mjhomesalesva.com
Some morning comedic relief for all you straight faced, Monday morning-hating homosapiens! Here's my voiceover impression of Kermit the frog as Liam Neeson from the hit move "Taken." 🐸🐸🐸🐸🐸🐸🐸🐸🐸🐸🐸🐸🐸 #kermitthefrog #liamneeson #movies #money #hollywood #power #funnyvideos #takenmovie #muppets #voiceactor #comedicrelief #mondaymood #comedyvids #sales #bosslife #realestateagent #mjhomesales #gainesvillevirginia #wealth #entrepreneur #success #tflers #instacool #instagram #bestpicoftheday #followme
🏡MJ Home Sales- Northern Virginias best husband & wife real estate team! 👫 Buying • Selling • Investing • Funding 🌏www.mjhomesalesva.com🌏 📧 email us now for a chance to win a 💰$5,000💰Realtor credit towards your house listing with us! CONTACT US HERE FOR DETAILS👇🏻👇🏻 [email protected] #Igmarketingforagents #realestate #sales #house #realestateagent #mjhomesales #investor #commercial #entrepreneur #success #tflers #instacool #gainesvilleva #bestpicoftheday #sellinghomes #buyinghomes #sold #hardwork #luxuryliving #houseshopping #nofilter #followforfollow #money #strentgh #power #knowledge #videomarketing #lawsofattraction #career #coffeelife


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Kenya is the birthplace of Abercrombie & Kent, and its magnificent landscapes, colourful tribal culture and incredible wildlife make for a magical honeymoon. Furthermore, accommodation here is superb and diverse, from stylish bush homes to secluded tented camps; private sundowners, relaxing spa treatments and sumptuous fine-dining await you.
Kenya's game reserves are among the best places in Africa to see the Big Five – lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo and rhino. The deep blue waters of its crater lakes also prove irresistible to a variety of stunning birds. From the world's biggest bird, the ostrich, to flamingo that congregate in vast flocks at the various lakes of the Great Rift Valley, Kenya's birdlife is captivating. For jaw-dropping aerial views nothing beats a balloon ride over the bush, whilst a walking safari is a great opportunity to see the smaller things easily missed on game drives. Our guides are the best in the business, and they will bring the bush to life with their vivid stories, insight and depth of knowledge.
During the summer months the bush springs to life as the drama of the Great Migration unfolds. One of the wildlife's greatest spectacles, some 1.4 million wildebeest and Burchell's zebra make the year long, round-trip from Tanzania's Serengeti to the Masai Mara. A picnic lunch amongst the action brings a whole new meaning to the term 'alfresco dining'. Stay at the utterly romantic Sanctuary Olonana, with its safari tents nestled on the banks of the Mara River – a prime spot to watch the migration. Whilst you're here in the African outback, we can arrange for your marriage to be blessed the traditional Maasai way by tribal elders.
After the excitement and adrenaline of safari, the sun-dappled Kenyan coast beckons. Here you can immerse yourself in a unique coastal culture which is as rich and rewarding as the local Swahili cuisine. The coastline south of Mombasa is a tropical paradise of palm-hemmed, white sand beaches where the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean meet colourful coral reefs. Experience the barefoot luxury of the Ocean Spa Lodge, offering 14 suites each with a view of the ocean and beach – it's the perfect coastal retreat before or after a safari. South of Malindi, Watamu is a marine national park where the coral gardens are just 300 metres from the shore, making it a superb location for diving and snorkelling.
A land of snow-capped peaks, beautiful beaches, equatorial forests and rolling savannahs, Kenya offers honeymooners endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. To start crafting your very own tailor-made holiday to this African icon, speak to our honeymoon specialists today.


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Find Us
(208) 557-2700
Main Campus Phone: (208) 557-2700
Main Campus Address: 2325 Coronado Street, Idaho Falls, ID 83404
A caring, compassionate environment and unsurpassed customer service is the standard at the Idaho Center for Sleep. Our staff is trained to make you feel comfortable and relaxed. We use the most advanced diagnostic equipment in a comfortable setting to determine the cause of your sleepless nights.
Our sleep rooms are similar to those of an upscale hotel, with beautiful amenities designed to create a comfortable environment. You will find soft lighting, carpeted floors, and a comfortable bed, all tastefully decorated to help you feel as comfortable as possible.
The goal at the Idaho Center for Sleep in Idaho Falls is to provide you with the information you need at the completion of your sleep study to better understand and help treat your sleep disorder.
Save time by filling out the following documents with you and presenting them at the time you check-in:


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It is crucial to comprehend the proper way to store for, use and store wonderful jewellery, no matter of regardless of whether it is a more recent piece or a cherished heirloom. Some helpful hints are appropriate here to aid you optimize the value of getting jewellery, and the work you require to go to so as to find the correct piece.
Just take treatment when you are storing your jewelry in the identical place. The proper jewelry box that has separate compartments, hooks and holders to preserve the parts aside is the very best decision. Never basically toss piles of jewellery in a box. This can damage extremely fragile jewelry, and tangle necklaces or bracelets.
Preserve your jewellery stored someplace that is totally free from humidity or air. To preserve your jewellery correctly guarded, store it in a drawstring bag or jewelry box. Humid air has an effect on the metals in jewelry and leads to tarnishing. Valuable metals, by means of some work and polish, can be restored to their authentic issue. Non-valuable metals are coated, which means that polishing will allow copper steel to come through.
Get a magnet and a keen eye with you when you head out to obtain any jewellery produced from sterling silver. You can notify if a piece of silver is sterling or not by making use of a magnet. Sterling will not respond to the magnet, but non-valuable metals will be captivated. Also, search to make confident that silver is hallmarked and stamped with .925, sterling or ster. Be cautious of parts that lack any silver hallmarks, as this is an indicator that they're not authentic sterling silver.
Effectively-taken care of jewelry is quite beneficial, not just fiscally but also sentimentally. When you defend your jewellery you support protect both your expense and your reminiscences. There is a whole lot far more info out there, so preserve educating oneself so that you will know how to get the most out of your jewelry.


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Microsoft Office 2010 full review
Has Microsoft got it right this time? PC Advisor tests and rates Microsoft Office 2010, and explains whether you should upgrade. Updated, May 20 2010.
Microsoft Office 2010: the history
Back in the 1990s, Microsoft Office still seemed new and exciting. Users were amazed by its powers: it highlighted typos, suggested grammatical changes and automatically recognised when you needed an accent on a foreign word or needed to renumber a PowerPoint list. It could do your sums for you and create graphs from sets of figures. It could even supply presentation handout notes as aides-memoires. See also: Office 2013 review.
Back then the Office productivity suite of tools was almost universally used and widely admired (a few security exploits notwithstanding). Encouraged by the praise heaped on what was to become the most successful program of its type, Microsoft added more and more features and bulked out the number of programs and variety of editions customers could choose from. The result: too much choice and too much bloat, cried commentators.
In the days of Windows XP, a feature-laden copy of Office Professional was accused of taking up far more than its share of system resources. With less than 1GB of RAM powering the programs on the average home PC, the dictionaries and templates, Clippy the assistant and the context-based help began to rile consumers who simply wanted to type a letter or fill in their household expenses spreadsheet.
Microsoft responded to the criticism by reining in Office's intrusions. Microsoft Office 2007 saw the introduction of a ribbon menu that made it easier to get to the items related to your current task, rather than interrupting you to check that you are doing things Microsoft's way. Intended to be a less overblown take on Office, however, the 2007 version was berated for making unnecessary alterations to a largely successful interface. Many people never upgraded from Office 2003, while plenty still use earlier versions.
With Office 2010, Microsoft hopes to find us all on the same electronic page. It's cut back on the number of versions, with home and non-business users offered a single Office Home and Student Edition. It's given the constituent programs in Office a uniform look (Outlook's design lagged behind the other main programs), it's made a concerted effort to add web-based elements into the mix and it's allowed plenty of time for both closed beta testers and the general public to try out Office 2010's various features and provide feedback on them.
To this end, Office 2010 has been available as a free beta download for the past six months. That's given Microsoft plenty of time to gather valuable feedback from users about what does and doesn't work, and to iron out any glitches that may have been uncovered.
In mid-April 2010, Microsoft announced that it had completed this process and was ready to start rolling out its office suite in time for a June launch. But the trial version was still available as we went to press, so it's not too late to try before you buy.
As you'll learn from our reviews over the following pages, we think many readers will want to become Microsoft Office 2010 users. Should you agree, we've got some advice on how to go about doing so for free or on the cheap.
NEXT: suite-wide Office changes >>
Click here for our review of Microsoft Office 2010 Web Apps.
Click here for the best Microsoft voucher codes.


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Playing cards can be the perfect advertising and promotional product, with a wide range of applications in any advertising campaign. You can use them to support sales, create your company image and effectively communicate with your clients and partners thanks to their flexibility and marketing potential. The ability to fully personalize the front, back and packaging of your deck of cards is one of their biggest strengths and makes it a very responsive tool of the trade. Our cards will satisfy any and all demands of a marketing campaign. Dedicated promotional games are also growing in popularity – you can count on our help and support with designing such products.
Cards are a popular and well-liked advertising medium attracting much attention thanks to its versatile nature. They serve as practical gifts and ensure effective advertising. The Trefl-Kraków cards manufacturer can customise both front and back sides of cards. Moreover, various ready-to-use designs are available for clients.
Currently, the games market is being developed very dynamically. More and more people of all ages are playing games. Thanks to our employees' invaluable experience, we offer our clients technical guidance and practical advice.


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When your solution needs deep packet inspection (DPI) application awareness as a key enabling feature, highly reliable and accurate identification of network traffic and applications - in real time - is an expected requirement. Whether it's for software defined networks to enable policy control and critical traffic steering or to protect corporate networks, IoT devices, and cloud platforms from malicious attacks, it's crucial to choose the right DPI solution.
"I am the Inspector Morse of IT journalism. I haven't a clue. D'oh" - Mike Magee


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Baby Announcement Photo Ideas
You're about to share some of the most exciting news of your life with your family and friends, that you are expecting a baby! There are some great ways to celebrate this moment, and we have been involved in creating images in theme. We can discuss ideas with you to create something that suits your personalities, that could then flow in to the theme of your little one's newborn portraits in the months head, the possibilities are endless!
It's also the perfect time at the moment to take advantage of our Autumn Mini Sessions for this idea!


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In this report, author Jessica Carson explores the landscape of Maine's Head Start program, describing how Head Start is funded, the characteristics of enrolled children and families, staff educational requirements, and an overview of the services offered.
Publication Date
Summer 7-25-2017
Durham, N.H. : Carsey School of Public Policy, University of New Hampshire
Document Type
Recommended Citation
Carson, Jessica A., "Maine Head Start Report: 2017" (2017). The Carsey School of Public Policy at the Scholars' Repository. 312.
Copyright 2017. Carsey School of Public Policy. These materials may be used for the purposes of research, teaching, and private study. For all other uses, contact the copyright holder.


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Volunteer Teaching Projects in Ecuador
- Placement locations: San Cristobal, Galapagos Islands
- Types of schools: Primary, Secondary, Community Programme
- Age of students: 5 - 16
- Class sizes: 15 - 25
- Role: Teaching assistant (English)
- Extra-curricular roles: IT, Sports, French
- Accommodation: Shared volunteer houses or host families
- Price: From
- What's included? Food, accommodation, transfers to and from our specified airport, transport to and from work where required, insurance, personal webpage, induction and orientation, 24/7 support
- What's not included? Flights, visa costs, spending money
- Length of placement: From two weeks
- Start dates: Flexible
Our Teaching projects in Ecuador are based in the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on the island of San Cristobal in the Galapagos Islands. There is an increasing demand to learn English amongst Ecuador's young population, and speaking English is the key to getting a job in the islands' thriving tourist industry.
By volunteering in Ecuador you will gain invaluable teaching and classroom based work experience. The focus is on conversational English and you will work alongside local staff, so you do not need any formal qualifications or TEFL training.
Your role as an English teacher in Ecuador
Volunteers can choose to teach conversational English at the Projects Abroad English Centre (based in our offices), or they can work as an assistant teacher in a government school. They also have the option to do both. Lessons in the government schools take place in the mornings, while English lessons in the centre take place in the afternoons.
Regardless of which placement you choose, your main focus will be on conversational English, helping to improve the children's pronunciation.
In most government schools you will begin as a classroom assistant, supporting the teacher during lessons lessons. However, as you get to know the children better and start to grow in confidence you may want to take on more responsibility.
Volunteers with skills or knowledge about teaching other subjects (such as science, maths or IT) can assist local teachers with these as well. You can also teach French or German if you have the skills to do so.
During the school holiday in March and April, volunteers can get involved in a camp focused on teaching English, art and sports to local children. Sports lessons may include swimming, basketball and football, but you can also teach any other sport you're skilled or interested in. The children who attend the camp are aged 3 - 11 years old.
You do not need to speak Spanish on this project, but learning a few basics is always helpful. Some volunteers choose to do an add-on or stand-alone Spanish language classes while they are in Ecuador to improve their language skills.
You can read more detailed information about the aims of the project in our Ecuador Teaching Management Plan.
You can join a Teaching project in Ecuador for two or three weeks if you don't have time to join us for four weeks or more. This project has been selected by our local colleagues as being suitable for short term volunteering for both the host community and the volunteer. Although you will gain a valuable cultural insight and work intensely within the local community please be aware that you may not be able to make the same impact as someone volunteering for a longer period.


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Many homeowners feel confident enough to attempt plumbing repair and maintenance services on their own because they have been successful at completing home maintenance projects on their own in the past.
However, as most home and business owners in the Baton Rouge area know, if you do not complete the project correctly the first time, you risk making a small problem much worse, and much more costly. So how can you determine if you can successfully complete plumbing services on your own or if you should just leave the work to a professional plumber in Baton Rouge?
Fortunately, Roto-Rooter offers a complete online assistance guide so that you can get the answers you need from the comfort and convenience of your home computer. With an interactive home guide, FAQs, instructional videos, and more, we are confident that you will have all of the tools you need to determine whether you have the skills, knowledge, and expertise necessary to complete plumbing services on your own. Our helpful customer service specialists are also available anytime to answer any further questions you may have to ensure that you can complete the services correctly the first time.
On the other hand, we are confident that once you see how affordable our reliable services are, you will choose Roto-Rooter to complete any necessary services for you. After all, why bother dealing with the time, stress, and hassle of having to complete them on your own when our licensed and insured plumbers can quickly, efficiently handle the project for you?
To schedule your free estimate or Baton Rouge plumbing appointment, give us a call at 225-925-8710.
Operated as an Independent Franchise
All available services, hours of operations, pricing structure, and guarantees may vary by location.
Homeowners everywhere have relied on Roto-Rooter since 1935 for honest, professional advice on all types of plumbing and drain cleaning services. Large jobs or small, we do it all:
Counties: Ascension, East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Iberville, Livingston, Pointe Coupee, West Baton Rouge, West Feliciana
Have a Plumbing Question?
Visit our Frequently Asked Questions section to find answers to our top plumbing questions.
Proud Member of:
Apartment Association


text: SCHROON LAKE Lance Gregson 44 died suddenly on Wednesday October 31, 2007 as the result of a construction accident. Born May 20, 1963 in Warsaw, NY, Lances family moved to Schroon Lake in 1969, and claimed Charley Hill Rd. as his own. He graduated from Schroon Lake Central in 1980. Lance was renowned as a stonemason, bicyclist, Philanthropist, life coach, and for his ridiculous sense of humor. Lance developed an elliptical adaptation of the Rumford style firebox and used it to build high-end fireplaces. He has created some of the finest stonemasonry and performed the highest quality restoration work. Lance was a general contractor and leaves behind many satisfied customers. He was also an avid bicyclist, often seen riding the 26 miles around Schroon Lake and wherever there were hills. He was the sports biggest advocate in his black riding shorts, colorful jerseys and a funny little hat. Lance raised thousands of dollars for Lance Armstrong Foundation, riding with Lance Armstrong at one point. He even had the nerve to give Armstrong a hard time about stealing his name. In June 2007 Lance rode 800 miles in the Canadian Rockies, raising funds for the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Lance was a certified life coach, corporate coach and Live Your Vision coach. He helped many people realize their dreams and exercise their potential through his Breakaway Coaching business. His was a life well lived, though painfully short. Lance was predeceased by his father Albert A. Gregson. Survivors include his wife of seventeen years, Anne Gregson of Schroon Lake, his mother Carol Gregson of Olmstedville, 2 sisters Kris (Richard) Moss of Queensbury and their children Nathan and Julie, Jill(John) Harris of Chestertown and their children Argus, Aron, Daniel, Jill, Noah, and Briana, 4 brothers Eric (Jane) Gregson of Severance and their daughter Allison, Barry (Darlene) Gregson of Schroon Lake and their children Matthew, Dylan and Skye, Kent Gregson (Daisy) of Indian Lake and his daughter Sara, Blair (Denise) Gregson of Newcomb and their children Ellie, Becky, Blair James, Ryan. In- laws Elisabeth Bang of Schroon Lake and Ted (Marge) Ressler of Camden, Del. and Bill (Dawn) Ressler of Virginia Beach. A celebration of Lances life is planned for 11:00 AM Saturday Nov. 10 at Schroon Lake Community Church to be followed by a pot-luck reception at Wakonda Family Campground. Friends are asked to come prepared to share stories about Lance. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lance Armstrong Foundation P.O. Box 161150 Austin, TX 78716-1150(www.livestrong.org) or The Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation 2221 Yonge St. Suite 601 Toronto, ON M4S2B4. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Barton-McDermott Funeral Home 9 Pine St. Chestertown.


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New Princess Cruises Ship to join fleet in 2019
New Princess Cruises Ship to join fleet in 2019
The announcement, made last week by Princess Cruises' parent company, Carnival Corporation, will increase Princess' fleet to 19. The vessel will be a sister ship to Royal Princess (launched in Southampton in 2013 by HRH, The Duchess of Cambridge), Regal Princess (launched 2014) and Majestic Princess (launching 2017).
The new ship will include signature elements of Princess Cruises' previous vessels including the vast central atrium hub with multiple dining, entertainment and retail venues; Movies Under the Stars outdoor cinema experience; The Sanctuary top-deck relaxation area; and the Lotus Spa. The ship will additionally include brand-new innovations that will be announced in due course.
Princess Cruises will confirm the ship's deployment at a later date.
Tony Roberts, vice president of Princess Cruises UK, said: "We're incredibly excited to confirm that Princess Cruises' growth continues with the order of another royal class ship. Demand and confidence in Princess has never been higher and we're delighted that in just a few years' time even more guests will get the chance to travel with us in style to over 360 destinations across the world."
- 5th January 2016
- Chris Leviston


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In the dead of winter, candles are alive. I light them every morning to wake up to beauty. Outside my window, unbroken grey wraps sky and sidewalk in an enervating hush. The city is in hibernation. At the kitchen table, my slim candle flames dance to their own music. A wax pinecone sinks inside itself, preserving its brown spikes and spirals as it melts. Another, "Feu de Bois" from Diptyque, sends out a wood fire scent. A few are just glass votives, because, why not?
By mid-February, things are looking up. Daylight begins to stretch. Some afternoons are still too grim and dark and cruelly cold. Others hold surprises. Walking in Central Park toward dusk, I see black trees lined up like logs against the urban skyline. Glass buildings shoot gold and orange embers at the sinking sun. Everything is lit. Warmth spreads. It's a fireplace in the sky, New York style.


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Minneapolis: Hotels
Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot
0.1km of Minneapolis
The Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot is located 11 miles from Mall of America and features an indoor seasonal ice skating rink. Spacious rooms offer 32-inch flat-screen TVs with HBO.
From 134.10USD / Night
Residence Inn Minneapolis Downtown at The Depot
0.2km of Minneapolis
This Minneapolis Residence Inn offers an on-site ice skating rink and underground heating parking. It also has a grill-style restaurant, free WiFi and rooms with fully equipped kitchens.
From 126.65USD / Night
The Hotel Minneapolis, Autograph Collection
0.3km of Minneapolis
Centrally located in downtown Minneapolis, this hotel less than a 10-minutes' walk from the Target Center Arena, a multi-purpose venue. Free Wi-Fi is available in the public areas.
From 104.00USD / Night
0.6km of Minneapolis
This downtown Minneapolis hotel is 4 minutes from the Minneapolis Convention Center and features an on-site restaurant and indoor pool. Modern rooms are furnished with a 42-inch flat-screen cable TV.
From 119.00USD / Night
Kimpton Grand Hotel Minneapolis
0.6km of Minneapolis
Located in the heart of downtown Minneapolis, this hotel is connected to the city's climate-controlled Skyway System and offers on-site dining options, complimentary evening wine reception, a full-service spa and salon and free WiFi.
From 152.10USD / Night
Crowne Plaza Northstar Minneapolis - Downtown
0.6km of Minneapolis
This Crowne Plaza Northstar hotel in downtown Minneapolis is a 10-minute walk to the Minneapolis Convention Center. It features an 8th-floor sky garden, contemporary European restaurant and rooms with a 42-inch flat-screen TV.
From 105.00USD / Night
0.7km of Minneapolis
This hotel is located in the IDS Center, the tallest building in Minneapolis. It offers a business center, 2 restaurants, gym and spacious rooms with 42-inch flat-screen TVs. The Marquette Hotel rooms include a fridge and a safety deposit box.
From 118.15USD / Night
0.8km of Minneapolis
This Minneapolis hotel is located in the Mill District within a 5-minute walk of Mill City Museum. This hotel offers an indoor pool and a flat-screen TV in every room. The aloft Minneapolis provides guests with a 24-hour gym.
From 115.00USD / Night
Best Western Plus The Normandy Inn & Suites
0.8km of Minneapolis
The Best Western Normandy Inn & Suites is centrally located in the heart of Minneapolis city centre. The hotel is 5 blocks from the Metrodome Stadium (Twins & Vikings), and the Minneapolis Convention Center.
From 119.00USD / Night
Radisson Blu Minneapolis Downtown
0.8km of Minneapolis
Within walking distance of Target Field and U.S. Bank Stadium, this downtown Minneapolis hotel is connected to the city's climate-controlled skyway system and offers on-site dining and free WiFi.
From 129.20USD / Night


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I had this inked on my thigh a few years back, but I grew bored of it as I felt it just sat there with no real va va voom. Now I love all things peacock and henna and equally for years have been saving tattoo inspiration pictures of both.
So this is what I had started today, it's only half complete as it will end up as a half leg piece. I was offered a five hour appointment but I'm a terrible fidget and struggled with keeping still for even twenty minutes!
I had a three hour sitting and think I will still need around three more hours.
My next appointment will be to have the feathers shaded / pattern added, his tail feathers added and lots more henna style flowers and shapes added around to make it more of an overall piece.
|Bed all set for me to hop on and get inked!
I will keep you updated as more is added and it starts to take shape.


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Cabinetmaker's Responsibilities
Forum Responses
From contributor J:
I tell them I am in the cabinet building business, period. I measure, build, and install their cabinets to fit their appliances (they provide the spec sheets), and their kitchen or bath or whatever. I do work with custom builders, professional remodelers and kitchen designers, but they handle all the mechanicals, tops, finishes, etc.
By the way, I don't help other subs do their jobs, or help with their rough ins or trim outs. That's the builder's/designer's job to coordinate, unless of course I bill myself as such - then I'll need a check.
From contributor G:
When I do a kitchen in a new house, I don't do anything but the cabinets. I do offer to get the granite counters done. I just sub it out and take my cut.
When I am asked to replace cabinets in an existing kitchen, I price out and sell everything. Electrical, plumbing, tile floors, hood vent, lighting, drywall, paint, appliance installation, cabinets, everything. Some I sub out, some I do.
I think this gives me an advantage over others that will not do this work. I have been told by some customers the reason I got the job was that I took care of everything and they didn't need to call anyone else in. I use it as a selling feature and it does work. I take the responsibility and I charge for it.
From contributor U:
Yep, LTL - limit the liability. Just keep using your sense like you have been and you'll be fine.
I agree - don't help the other subs. They don't really need it, appreciate it, nor would they likely return the favor.
From contributor V:
Develop a screened list of subs for your customer. One way to find good subs is to ask other good subs. For example, if you know a high quality painter, I guarantee that he can give you the names of other tradesmen who work at the same level. Another way is to ask your local paint/hardware/lumber shops who they think the best tradesmen are and start there.
From contributor I:
I tell the homeowners that I do not do the electrical or plumbing - things that require a license. If there were water damage or a fire, the insurance would want to know who did the work. Then you would be left to either defend your work or prove that the parts were defective. I tell them that I want them to have the best, and while I can do it, I would rather have someone who does this every day.
From contributor R:
Any cabinetmaker not willing to manage subs on a project when the opportunity arises is missing out on a chance to develop rapport with the customer and profit from the effort. I charge on a cost plus basis to manage the subs I recommend, and to be available to assist them with getting all of the appliances set in place properly. I have never been able to simply install cabinets, then walk away! There are always situations to deal with, no matter how smooth everything goes, like coming back to install appliance fronts or do a special cut out for the countertop people since they, like many of you, "are just top people - we don't cut cabinets to fit the sink, nor do we install the sink on granite tops". Someone needs to oversee the project, and in the absence of a general contractor, I'm happy to be paid for doing it, if for no other reason than I have a great deal of pride in the work I do and the relationship I develop with the customers. The better a job goes while I'm involved in it, the more the light will shine on me. When you rely on word of mouth for your business, nothing is more important than customer satisfaction.
I'm not saying that I do electrical or plumbing work, etc, but I have a good relationship with reputable subs that I can recommend to the customer to be sure the job is done right. Let the experts - electrician, plumber, tinman, etc. - do what they do best. Make sure the subs know you expect them to back up their work and everyone will make money and be happy.
I say go for it - choose a way to charge for the responsibility of managing the project, and make money.
From contributor I:
I am a cabinetmaker, not a GC. When something goes wrong - sub doesn't show, can't get there until next week, there is a fire/flood, the appliance doesn't work properly - you are held responsible, and more often than not, you don't receive money until it is fixed to the customer's satisfaction.
Yes, there is a chance to make more money playing the role of GC, but you also accept more liability and problems. The reason clients come to me to have these jobs (plumbing, electrical, flooring, etc.) done is because they want to save money not hiring a GC. They have swallowed the big lie that "You can be your own contractor," or "You don't need a professional. You can do it yourself." These clients see a kitchen remodel go together in a half hour several times a week. When you, as a contractor that knows how the schedules of contractors work, try to explain that the electrician will be finished on this current job in two weeks, and the plumber can't get here for another 5 days, then you are seen as the bad guy. Reality has met their expectations, there will be no progress for at least another week, and this feeling is associated with you.
I give them good referrals and let them play GC and save their money. I do a great job and get out with positive feelings. If something goes wrong with another contractor, it is not my responsibility. Case in point. The job I am on now, the tile guy was about to do the shower. The shower was being redone because of extensive water damage. The tile guy noticed a small leak in the "new" mixing valve. I can't imagine the liability that I would have to assume. Just ask any lawyer. In a case like this, they will go after anybody they can. Even if you did not do the work, you will be sued and you will have to explain to a judge/jury why you should not have to pay half of the damages. You may be willing to take that risk, and I would hope that you are bonded and well insured. But I still don't see how to make it worthwhile financially and still cover the liability.
From contributor C:
Contributor R, are you a licensed general contractor in addition to being a cabinetmaker?
From contributor R:
This is a topic which has no right or wrong answer. The questioner needs to decide what direction he wants his business to go and grow, and how willing he is to take on the challenges. Many problems can occur, but more often than not, if managed with a level head and foresight, things will go as planned and everyone will be happy. At worst, when thing go wrong, it's how we as professionals handle the situation that will make or break us. Instead of finger pointing, we should, as responsible tradesmen, fix the problem and move on, so as not to let the job get out of control.
I think contributor I's statement is a gross exaggeration - no one does a remodel in a half hour several times a week, and I have never had a customer that had a preconceived notion of precisely how long the job will take. I advise them before they agree to the project approximately how long it might take, but leave it understood that what it takes is what it takes. If I do a proper job coordinating the subs, it goes smoothly; if I don't, it won't.
In any case, you have chosen not to take the risks involved with managing a job, and that's okay. But for those willing to take the risks of a job not going quite as planned, it can be worthwhile. A small percentage of jobs turn out as you have described and they certainly don't have to end up in a lawsuit if the tradesmen are the responsible people they should be. In the case of the bad valve, a good tradesman did find a problem and instead of choosing not to say a word about it , brought it to someone's attention and it got fixed. That's how we should handle that situation and no one had to call a lawyer, and the valve company will probably credit the plumber back for a faulty product, end of story. It is on you to select and recommend reputable tradesmen that will work responsibly on the job and, as a result, make money doing so! But it's not for everyone.
To the best of my knowledge in the state if Illinois, I am not required to be licensed. I do carry a $2,000,000.00 insurance policy as required by the generals that I work for.
From contributor N:
I think contributor M is referring to the damn DIY shows - Hometime, This Old House, etc. They never show the behind the scenes - how long things take in real time. So homeowners think it's no big deal for us to finish an entire kitchen remodel in a couple of days. I run into this all the time.
From contributor E:
This is an interesting thread. I've done it all, but primarily I build cabinets. Some of them I finish, but most are installed unfinished. When working with a GC, I build and install unfinished cabinets. On remodels, I usually finish in the shop before installation. Most of the time on remodels, I coordinate with the subs, and charge a fee to do so. Homeowners don't have a clue how things have to go together.
I did a complete kitchen remodel last summer for a regular client. Decent sized kitchen. Ripped out cabinets and furr down on Monday, repaired drywall Tuesday morning, installed cabinets Tuesday afternoon. Drywall was finished Wednesday morning. Laminate was installed on countertops Wednesday night. New ceramic tile was installed on the floor Thursday, and grouted Friday morning. Appliances and sink were installed Friday afternoon, and she cooked dinner in her new kitchen Friday night. It went like clockwork because I knew all the subs and had commitments from them for the specified time. Did a bathroom remodel for them this summer and it took weeks to make it all happen. One sub doesn't do right and the whole thing is down the tubes! Because things didn't work like clockwork, I made no money on the bathroom and had lots and lots of headaches.
I would rather recommend good subs and let the homeowner deal with the headaches so I'm off the hook. However, even with a GC, I usually have to wear many hats. I recently went to install a kitchen and he had a light switch where the appliance garage was. The homeowner called the electrician, and he said he would be out the next day. Well, he didn't come the next day, or the day after that. GC called him and he promised again. Finally, 5 days later I show up after being assured it would be taken care of. Drove 45 minutes to the job only to find that he hadn't moved the box. Called him, and he said, "just knock that box out of the way and I'll come back and put in a popin box". I started to do that the first day when I realized there was a problem. I could have saved another trip and had the job finished 5 days earlier! You gotta be flexible and roll with the punches. If you can make a buck by going above and beyond being a cabinet builder, do it! If you can't make a buck, it is too much headache to fool with it.
From contributor C:
I usually find out what kind of countertop they are going to use, and put the plywood on top of the cabinets for them. I do the radius plywood that supports granite overhangs and corbels and stuff that matches it up with the cabinets. Granite companies will also do this for you, but if the cabinet company does it, then they instantly have at least a plywood countertop.
The customer likes to have to call as few people as possible. They are going to need a GC, unless they can handle that task on their own.
From contributor P:
If you do any electrical work without a license, the owner can refuse to pay you for the whole shooting match and you will not have a leg to stand on. It is a law that has been put in place to prevent homeowners from being ripped off by unlicensed operators. The same for plumbing.
Find a Sparky and a plumber who you can work with and have them estimate on the work directly to the client. Ask for a 10% finder's fee from same.
From contributor B
Good point!
My thought: If you, like I, have substantial shop overhead expenses, i.e., machinery, skilled help, rent, how can a cabinetmaker justify the cost of the idled shop while out playing GC?
From contributor I:
Contributor R, the point of this is that the questioner was asking for advice. It appears that he is a little green when it comes to the construction culture. I believe that your advice is hasty for this newcomer. If he does not know the roles of subs, then I doubt that he would be ready to play the role of a GC. While you have outlined the argument for cabinetmakers to take on more responsibility for more income and more customer service, this is premature for the questioner, in my opinion.
As for the gross exaggeration, I take this from my recent experience. I speak of the last several customers that I have had, as well as the potential clients who did not want to wait. Subs here are stretched to the limit with their schedule, and there doesn't seem to be enough qualified help.
And as for responsible subs... The house that we are working on is the home of a prominent architect in Dallas - one of his buildings is in the skyline. He hand-selected all of his subs. And if it were not for the fact that the tile guy could not get to the job until a couple of days after the plumber left, his helper might not have noticed it.
I have done both, just cabinets and GC. I can say that when I accept more responsibility, the potential for problems increases exponentially! There are builders and GC's out there who are making more money than I am. But I have found it to be less complicated and I keep more money in my pocket when I stick to what I am best at, making cabinets - not babysitting subs.
From contributor P:
Well put.
There is potential to make money as a GC, but if you don't have the license to do the work, and if you don't pull permits for same work, you are just opening a can of worms.
The other day I was measuring for a vanity while the plumbers were putting in the shower pan. I swear I did not know how much work went into putting a shower together, not to mention the liner or how to do the curb.
Had I hired a plumber and a tile guy to do a bathroom remodel for me, I would not have known what to look for to ensure it was done correctly. Had I done it myself, it would have looked very different and would probably have failed and ended up costing me a bundle to have it re-done by professionals.
If you find the work for the electrician or plumber, you get 10%. I'm not good at gambling, so I like to go for the sure thing.
So again, sell what you do, don't do what you sell. Not sure who said that first here, but it makes sense.
Contributor B, the reason most small shops get involved with other trade work is because they don't have work for the shop to do so they feel making money doing something different is better than doing nothing. The sad thing is that this often backfires. I know - it has happened to me before.
I did a job installing beams on a ceiling for a client along with crown molding and some other architectural moldings. Not sure how to estimate this job, I underestimated badly and to make things worse, I took way to long to do the work. Had I done nothing rather than that, I would have been better off.
Now that I think about it, had I stayed at home and sent the client 5 dollars a day, I would have been better off still. I learnt this lesson the hard way. Many others will follow.
From contributor M:
I have come to an agreement with a contractor that I have known for years and trust. To any one of my customers I exclusively recommend him for projects. He exclusively recommends me for the entire millwork/cabinet package for all his customers. We do this at the bidding stage so that if one of us doesn't get the project, the other still has a chance.
We do what we do best. No commissions paid between each other. We set up parameters for who is responsible for what and when it needs to be done. This way everyone can concentrate on what is making them money and not have to do the other's job without making a dime.
On the surface it seems like no one is making more money. But we have now created double the projects we bid on in a year without spending a dime on advertising. And actually, having a team of subs working on the same jobs year after year makes everybody's end run much smoother and more profitable.
From contributor R:
I'm not interested in debating the merits of all of the horror stories or problem situations posted here beyond acknowledging the fact that sometimes they occur. But I don't believe that your few bad experiences are the rule, at least not for me. And I would hate to see the questioner pass up the opportunity based on your few experiences. What bothers me is that those of you that have had a bad experience with managing a project have written it off as something a cabinetmaker can't accomplish or shouldn't attempt. I think this is bull! If the questioner is assisted with foresight from us on how it can work, he might find he likes doing this and becomes successful at it, even if it means getting licensed to do it. There is too much negativity in your statements and not enough guidance, which I admit I haven't offered much of as well, other than to say if he wants to try it, go for it.
To the original questioner: No question about it, it is a challenge to manage construction projects and you are asking to wear many hats that aren't familiar to you. Maybe you need to start with a smaller project to get a feel for how it will go. I am successful at doing what you are asking and if you want to take the challenge, you will also be successful. If not, that's okay - stick to cabinets.
If you do go ahead, make every effort to keep things very professional and legal. Do what is necessary to protect yourself, but always do what is best for the customer, even if it means walking away from a job. Have good, reputable tradesmen that do what they say they will and are licensed.
From contributor B:
Contributor R, I assume you have a shop. Just curious - what is your shop's overhead?
From contributor R:
Yes, I have a shop. I have been here at the same location for 17 years. I don't see what my overhead has to do with this topic. If this is related to your previous post about "idle time as GC", this is by no means idle time. My customers pay me for the time I spend managing and meeting with the tradesmen and overseeing their work. On top of this, I contract on a cost plus basis, which means that I get 10% (the plus in "cost plus") of the purchase price of appliances, plumbing fixtures, stereo and TV equipment, etc. used on the job. This is no different than any GC gets, except in my area of the Chicago suburbs, the fulltime GC's get 20%. If you don't think this is worthwhile to make a couple of extra trips out to the job site, or phone calls to the subs to keep on top of things, that's okay. I am a control freak and when I build a cabinet job, I want to make sure the plumber or electrician, etc. isn't tearing things up I'll have to repair at my expense later, when I get one of those customers that already assumes it's my responsibility. This is how I make it worthwhile being the GC.
From contributor B:
Contributor R, thanks for the fast reply. However, I'm still unclear on how much is your overhead. Not trying to be confrontational - we all have different points of view. It would just help to understand where you are coming from on this subject.
Doing kitchens for homeowners without a GC does require someone to hold their hand, and if you are doing that, you are right - you must get paid for it somehow if you want to stay in business.
I guess also, I just want the newer guys to consider what a bear overhead is for even a small cabinet shop, and how it dictates practically everything one does after making the commitment to do this thing called cabinetmaking. That was the main thing I did not fully understand when I decided to make cabinets full-time. Sometimes I recall wistfully the days when I was "just" a GC, and how lean my overhead was with no shop and most of my work was "cost plus". Try building cabinets "cost plus"... that would be great, only I can't seem to find any customers who will go for it!
From contributor P:
Okay, this is just my point of view. If you are overseeing the whole operation, that makes you the GC.
Common facts 101.
2. The client can refuse to pay you and there is nothing you can do about it.
3. The client is gambling your lower rates against possible poor workmanship. That penny pinching mentality that drives the client to gamble on an investment such as his property makes me very weary.
4. You are gambling that you will be paid, much as we all do, but knowing that if you're not paid, you can't do anything about it.
5. Your subcontractors are gambling their work and materials knowing that if you are not paid, they can not collect from you.
6. Everybody is gambling that nothing goes wrong, because they all know that, should something go wrong, your cabinet making insurance is not going to cover it.
Personally, I feel that people who do take such risks are not seeing the whole picture and are tunnel visioning into just another way to make a buck. I think that if that was the point, this would be a very confused world. After all, what's to stop me from calling myself a doctor and doing a little surgery on weekends just because it turns a buck?
A cabinetmaker makes and sells cabinets. An electrician runs wires and builds circuits according to plans. A plumber runs piping and installs faucets and such. A good plumber should be too busy doing plumbing to do cabinetry. Would you hire a possibly poor plumber to do your cabinetry? I think not.
That is why people ask about your overhead, because if you are out there playing GC, you are not in your shop building cabinets. If you are a cabinet maker, but you don't make cabinets because you are out being an unlicensed GC, then maybe you should think about it a little.
Cabinet maker = +1
Don't you think?
Whatever you do, don't refer to yourself as a GC unless you sat the exam and passed.
And remember, people work hard to own houses and such property. That property is, to most, the most valuable investment they have and we should not take that lightly.
Also, when somebody asks for advice, I think it is only the responsible thing to give them the correct answer (to the best of our ability). If the question was "can I smoke while I handle lacquer thinners?", the correct answer is no! There will be those that say they do it all the time. Is that the smart answer? No!
From contributor R:
It occurred to me last night just how ignorant I am sometimes when it comes to seeing the whole picture. Everyone's situation is different and those differences are the basis of how we make decisions about our life. I think that what's not clear here is the background that I come from that leads me to doing business the way I do. Having worked in residential construction since I started with building trades in high school, I went on to get a degree in architecture (although never applied to take the exam for my license). I have since worked for 3 different building contractors before opening my own business 18 years ago. All that said, I believe this background qualifies me to do what I do to the degree I do it, licensed or not. As I said previously, in Illinois, to the best of my knowledge, a license is not required. If it were, I would not hesitate to get one.
I do have a client base that doesn't ask what things cost anymore, just if I can do it! I have been fortunate over the past 18 years to have developed customers with enough money that it doesn't matter what my work costs, and they know I am trustworthy enough to have their confidence, that I bill them fairly and do as I say I will, and have the expertise needed. When a cabinetmaker is working with customers on the middle to low end of the scale, I see it would be impossible to get the kind of deal I have gotten. This would certainly make it harder to convince the customer to work on cost plus, but I still think it can be doable.
As for the fears of a job going bad, I am confident I can get the job done right. I would rather take on the job at a known risk than to leave it in the unknowing hands of a homeowner to GC him/herself. I think you run a greater risk when you have a homeowner/GC running a job when they aren't any more qualified to manage things right than you think I am! Even if it is their house, it should be done right. Also, every day you go to work, you run some risk that you won't get paid. You minimize your risks by doing good work and treating your customers with respect, proving to them through your actions that you are on their side, looking out for their best interest.
Finally, my average monthly operating expenses equal $2,600.00.
from the original questioner:
Wow. I can't believe the responses to my post. Thanks. When I posted the initial thread, I was looking to determine if I was responsible for finding a plumber and electrician, arranging for appliance installations, etc. What I have come to believe from all of these shows and from the large manufacturers of kitchen cabinets is that the customer thinks the person doing the cabinets is the one responsible to see the whole project through. I think they may feel this way because the cabinets are usually the bulk of the project. I am not licensed and don't plan on becoming licensed to be a general contractor. There may be money in it, but I need/want to focus on cabinets. There's money in plumbing, but I'm not going to take on a plumbing job because of it.
I just picked up a kitchen the other day, my second in the 2 1/2 years that I've been in business. Part of me just felt awkward saying, "check with the big warehouse appliance dealers - they generally install the appliances" or "you'll have to find someone to run the electrical boxes to the new appliances" (the appliances that I moved somewhere else). The customer didn't seem to have a problem with it, I just don't want any customer to feel like I'm not giving them the whole package. "You want $20,000 and you won't even install the appliances?!" I don't need to hear that. I have a few connections for the electric and plumbing work, but I have to find a new one because these two aren't what I want in a business relationship.
That brings up another question. Should I charge a 10% finders fee or just give him the jobs with hopes that the favor returns my way sometime? I don't know. We'll see how this kitchen goes and I have an appointment for another one tomorrow.
From contributor J:
Here in Texas, all you need to be a GC is a 4x4 crew cab and a cell phone. Gold necklace and nugget ring helps, but not a necessity. I do cabinets for contractors and interior designers, and on occasion I get stupid and deal directly with the homeowner (bad move). I was out doing a shelf out and final hardware install yesterday, and left because the electricians were there. They need you to do everything for them. "Hey, can you cut us an access hole? Got any screws? How about a hand with the oven?" My lord, just give me some wire nuts, and we'll finish the job for you! We will go back when everyone else is through so we don't have to be their handymen.
From contributor C:
Apparently there are states that do not require a GC to be licensed? I only have experience in Florida and California and the ramifications of contracting without a license in either of these states is not worth any potential monetary gains. If you are not licensed to contract, you should not, regardless of your background. If there are places that allow this, then I have once again learned something.
From contributor R:
Since licensing is not required everywhere, then even more important is the proper application of building permits which are more often a requirement than the license, and hold more value to me, since the inspectors are an excellent means of checks and balances for any construction process.
From contributor B:
On the subject of being licensed to contract… In California, if you don't have a contractor's license for the trade you engage in, the owner can refuse to pay you one cent on the basis of you not being licensed. You will have no legal recourse at all. Something else to think about.
The comments below were added after this Forum discussion was archived as a Knowledge Base article (add your comment).
Comment from contributor X:
To the original contributor:
2 - Who hooks up appliances, etc? Generally anything that has to do with water or waste I hook up (including the electical part). The electrical part may not be legal where you are, but I have never had a problem with an inspector for doing this. What I mean by this is that if there is an ice maker in the fridge, generally the electician has already put plugs and cover plates on and after hooking a water supply to the fridge, I'll plug it in and roll it into place (yeah, I know - tough job, but some plumbers won't even do that). Dishwashers same thing, although the electical part is not as simple as plugging it in. When I work on a site where I know the electricians, they will give me the electrical parts I require to hook it up ahead of time, because they know that I will do it right. Actually, they just throw a handful of cable clamps into my toolbox every so often when I see them so I have them when I need one. Why do I do this? I have to test the water and waste lines for the dishwasher anyway, which requires it to be powered up. I can hot wire it or take 5 minutes and hook it up properly and be done with it, so why not just do it right? Same goes for garbourators, instant hot water faucets, etc.
3 - What should the cabinetmaker work with the plumber on? Hopefullly all the planning is done before the rough in is done and the location of everything is already nailed down. When that happens, rough-ins are all where they should be (providing I did my job right) and finishing is easy. What happens, though, is that a customer buys a vintage dishwasher off E-Bay to complement their vinyl couch and everything is out of whack. If you can work with the plumber to find a way to make it fit, you will have found someone that you can work with in the future. Generally, I require nothing from the cabinetmakers unless they are also the counter top people. The counter tops are generally cut out for sinks by them, and I do the faucet holes, etc. This may be different where you live, but is the norm where I live. The exception is stone counters - the counter top people cut the tops and bore the holes for faucets, and in the case of undermount sinks, install the sinks. Other than the oddball situations, you shouldn't need to help a plumber out for much of anything.
4 - Someone mentioned finding good subs to work with - great idea. If you can find some reliable people to work with, everything goes well and all issues are easily solved. However, I don't like the idea of being expected to pay 10% of a job for referals as has been mentioned by other contributors. Good business breeds good business and if someone is worthy of recommendation, I'll recommend them free of charge and hope that they do the same for me. The truth is, I see a lot of kitchens and baths in need of renovation and when I get asked if I know someone that would be good to talk to about it, I'm not going to tell them about the guy who charges me unless he is outstanding at what he does.
Comment from contributor L:
I have had the same problem. Now I tell the customers "Plumbing and electrical are licensed trades. In Florida it is a felony to practice the trade without a license."
I do this mostly because they do not want to pay what it is worth to hook up or install.
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The gardens of Pear Tree Cottage sit in a cider apple orchard in the green and rolling countryside of Worcestershire, England. It enjoys a sunny south westerly aspect with sweeping views across to Martley Hillside, Woodbury & Abberley clock tower. The Teme Valley lies just over the hill and, not far away, is the Herefordshire border. Although our climate is temperate - PHZ 8, our seasons are often uncertain and always a challenge to a gardener!
4 August 2013
The end of a busy day
After another hard day's graft, it was time to sit down for sundowners and supper all supplied by Al!
As there was a bit of chill in the air we lit the fire for the first time this year (and last!) and all sat back enjoying darkness settling and the owls calling.
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Millwall boss wary of threat of resurgent Swindon
MILLWALL boss Neil Harris has warned his side face a "completely different test" this weekend against Swindon compared to the facile 2-0 win over the then-struggling Robins in October.
The Lions are fifth in League One and favourites to stretch their unbeaten away run to seven games, but face a Swindon side who have won their last four fixtures.
Mark Cooper was sacked after goals from Lee Gregory and Aiden O'Brien lifted Millwall to 13th in the table on October 17. Martin Ling was appointed at the beginning of November but a 5-1 defeat at Fleetwood left them 22nd in the table on November 21.
But, despite Ling resigning on December 29 for health reasons, they have won 10 of their 16 league games since that heavy defeat and are just seven points off the top six.
And Harris knows that against a side that has scored 11 goals in their last four games Millwall will have to be resilient defensively.
"All good teams are built on a solid foundation" Harris said. "We talk about the spine of the team and the pace and quality added to that.
"Defensively we've looked good and that's the whole team. Pressing from the front has been key. Wide players in our team work so hard, the stats show that in terms of distance covered.
"It's also about good decision-making and good shape. Winning individual battles is important in the middle of the park. And you need your back four and your goalkeeper to do the dirty, nitty-gritty work.
"We've been good at all that recently. We're on a good run, six clean sheets in eight. But they really will be tested this weekend."
Four of the Swindon side that started against Millwall in October – Adam El-Abd, Momar Bangoura, Ben Gladwin and Henrik Ojamaa – are no longer at the club.
They have added Michael Doughty on loan from QPR and Jamie Sendles-White from Hamilton to their squad this year.
Swindon confirmed Luke Williams as their permanent manager on a five-year deal this week after he won six out of 10 games in temporary charge in 2016.
"It's a completely different test," Harris warned. "It was 2-0 at The Den and could quite easily have been double figures.
"But it's a different team. A change of management sometimes brings a change of fortunes.
"They've some good additions on loan. They're a team on form so it's a real challenge for us. They're a really strong, free-flowing attacking unit that scores a lot of goals.
"It'll be a good game of football and we'll have to defend really well to try and get another clean sheet.
"But we're also on a good run of form ourselves and we'll have to try and impose ourselves on the game."