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Imo State came into existence in 1976 along with other new states created under the leadership of the late military ruler of Nigeria, Murtala Muhammad, having been previously part of East-Central State. The state is named after the Imo River. Part of it was split off in 1991 as Abia State, and another part became Ebonyi State. The main cities in Imo State are Owerri, Orlu and Okigwe. The Orashi River has its source in this state. The local language is Igbo and Christianity is the predominant religion. Imo state was created at Ngwoma.
Imo State lies within latitudes 4°45'N and 7°15'N, and longitude 6°50'E and 7°25'E with an area of around 5,100 sq km. It is bordered by Abia State on the East, by the River Niger and Delta State on the west, by Anambra State to the north and Rivers State to the south. Besides Owerri, Imo State's major towns are Isu, Okigwe, Oguta, Orlu, Mbaise, Mbano, Mbieri, Orodo and Orsu.
The state is rich in natural resources including crude oil, natural gas, lead, zinc. Economically exploitable flora like the iroko, mahogany, obeche, bamboo, rubber tree and oil palm predominate. However with a high population density and over farming the soil has been degraded and much of the native vegetation has disappeared.
This deforestation has triggered soil erosion which is compounded by heavy seasonal rainfall that has led to the destruction of houses and roads.
The rainy season begins in April and lasts till October with annual rainfall varying from 1,500mm to 2,200mm (60 to 80 inches).
An average annual temperature above 20 °C (68.0 °F) creates an annual relative humidity of 75%. With humidity reaching 90% in the rainy season. The dry season experinces two months of Harmattan from late December to late February. The hottest months are between January and March.
The state has a three tier administrative structure: State, Local and Autonomous community levels. The three arms at state level are the Executive, the Legislative and the Judiciary. The executive arm is headed by an elected Governor who is assisted by a deputy governor, commissioners and executive advisers. The incumbent is governor Ikedi Ohakim, elected in April 2007 with Ada Okwuonu as deputy governor.
The legislative arm is headed by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly who is currently speaker Goodluck Nanah Opiah. The remainder of the house is made up of elected legislators and is the lawmaking body of the state.
The judiciary is made up of the high court of justice and customary court of appeal and is headed by the Chief Judge of the state.
English, Igbo
Imo State is made up of twenty-seven Local Government Areas:
The estimated population is 4.8 million and the population density varies from 230-1,400 people per square kilometer.
Imo state is a predominantly Igbo speaking state, with Igbo people constituting a majority of 98%.
There are several institutions of higher education with some being run by the state government and others by the federal government. The two universities being Imo State University and the Federal University of Technology Owerri.
Notable people from Imo State include:
For more Nigerian news: http://news.logbaby.com


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Bank Notes |
BofA has new Web site aimed at college students
Bank of America Corp. is targeting college students with a new financial awareness campaign.
The Web site that is the hub of the campaign,
www.bankofamerica.com/oncampus, is meant to be educational and humorous. A glossary explains bank terms like "direct deposit" and "annual percentage rate." A tips sheet offers advice about avoiding bank fees (set up automatic bill pay) and other wise counsel for the college set (get sandals for the shower). Bank of America is also encouraging students to submit their best financial tips on the Web site through Oct. 17, for a grand prize of $25,000.
Featured prominently on the Web site are short videos with "Morris, the wise upperclassman," an actor who expounds on the beauty of online banking, Bank of America's student checking account, and similar subjects.
"Now I don't know about you, but I walk five blocks to find my bank's ATM rather than get hit with fees from those no-name convenience-store ones," Morris tells his audience, standing in front of a cartoon streetfront and fist-bumping a person dressed as a Bank of America ATM.
With the launch of this Web site, the Charlotte bank hopes to stir up interest in student-friendly products like mobile banking, or banking via cell phone. College students are supposed to be a big driver of mobile banking, but a recent Bank of America survey found that 64 percent of them weren't familiar with the concept.
Last year, Bank of America launched a small-business forum – smallbusinessonlinecommunity.bankofamerica.com - and a mobile banking site – anywhere.bankofamerica.com.

subset: commoncrawl


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An historic church could be transformed into housing after plans were lodged with Blackpool Council to demolish the building.
The Kings Christian Centre, formerly known as the Claremont Congregational Church, on Warley Road, North Shore, could be levelled under plans lodged by Blackpool-based GO Developments, with a view to turning the site into homes.
The church, built in 1900, could be knocked down to make way for apartments or housing, according to site owner Ged O'Mahoney.
He said: "The building is totally derelict.
"It is about to fall down – it could be any day.
"The site is almost condemnable. To restore it you would be looking at £1.5m.
"It is not financially viable to restore it.
"If given permission I hope to start work in January."
Mr O'Mahoney, who bought the site for £250,000, said the 114-year-old building had been listed by Blackpool Council, but due to the extensive rebuilding work has been told by planners the status is no longer required.
Today councillors in Warbreck ward said the building was in need of redevelopment.
Coun Tony Brown (pictured) said: "It is very run down and there has been talk of turning it into a soup kitchen but it has come to nought.
"It is sad to see it as it is.
"Something needs to be done.
"It is not right for the neighbours who live nearby to suffer if the building is in a poor condition."
The demolition application will be considered by planners in the coming weeks.


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Biased sex ratios predict more promiscuity, polygamy and divorce in birds
• More birds break pair bonds or 'divorce' in populations where there are more females.
• Short-term infidelity increases in male-dominated environments.
• First conclusive proof that rates of divorce and infidelity are affected by adult sex ratio.
• Research has some striking parallels in human societies.
Birds in female-dominated populations are more likely to ditch and 'divorce' their mates while promiscuity increases in predominantly male environments, according to new research.
A joint study by the University of Sheffield and the University of Bath gives the first conclusive proof that rates of divorce and infidelity in birds are affected by the adult sex ratio of the population they live in – a theory previously discounted by biologists.
The study, which examined the pair bonding and mating behaviour of 197 different species of bird, found the divorce rate was higher in species with a female-biased sex ratio.
However, when the number of males outweighed females, the frequency of extra-pair mating increased in socially monogamous birds.
The Marie Curie funded research, published in the journal Current Biology, also found both sexes were more polygamous when the ratio was skewed towards the opposite sex.
Professor András Liker, Marie Curie Research Fellow at the University of Sheffield during the study, said: "If there is more of one sex than another, members of the rarer sex have a higher chance of getting a new partner for breeding than members of the common sex.
"Basically, the rarer sex has more opportunity to 'play the field' and either cheat on the partner or leave in favour of a new mate.
"Many animals form pairs to mate and then look after offspring. However, in animals as well as in humans, couples may not be permanent – divorce and infidelity are remarkably common."
Professor Tamás Székely, of Biodiversity Lab at the University of Bath, said researchers were interested to observe that both sexes 'play the game'.
"If there are lots of unpaired members of the opposite sex, there is more opportunity for the rarer sex to attract several partners," he added.
"We found that a female bias in sex ratio destabilises the pair bond system, although it is unclear as to whether this is due to lots of unpaired females luring males away from their mate or if the male, given a greater choice of partners, decides to switch partners more frequently.
"We also found that extra-pair mating was more common when there were more males than females - this could be due to females 'shopping around' when they have more males to choose from, or it could be that there is more rape by males unable to secure a permanent mate.
"Biased sex ratios may destabilise pair-bonds and increase marital infidelity, although relevance of these findings for other species need to be thoroughly tested."
Professor Robert Freckleton, of the University of Sheffield's Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, said the role that sex ratio plays in human mating behaviour should be studied further.
He added: "Surprisingly, some of our results in birds have striking parallels in human societies – for example, the frequency of divorce is related to sex ratio in some human societies in the same way.
"These results suggest that adult sex ratio may have an important role in shaping mating behaviour in a wide range of organisms, and deserve further investigations both in humans and non-human animals."
Additional information
The University of Sheffield
With almost 25,000 of the brightest students from around 120 countries, learning alongside over 1,200 of the best academics from across the globe, the University of Sheffield is one of the world's leading universities.
A member of the UK's prestigious Russell Group of leading research-led institutions, Sheffield offers world-class teaching and research excellence across a wide range of disciplines.
Unified by the power of discovery and understanding, staff and students at the university are committed to finding new ways to transform the world we live in.
In 2011 it was named University of the Year in the Times Higher Education Awards and in the last decade has won four Queen's Anniversary Prizes in recognition of the outstanding contribution to the United Kingdom's intellectual, economic, cultural and social life.
Sheffield has five Nobel Prize winners among former staff and students and its alumni go on to hold positions of great responsibility and influence all over the world, making significant contributions in their chosen fields.
Global research partners and clients include Boeing, Rolls-Royce, Unilever, AstraZeneca, Glaxo SmithKline and Siemens, as well as many UK and overseas government agencies and charitable foundations.
For further information, please visit www.sheffield.ac.uk
University of Bath
We are one of the UK's leading universities, ranked number one in UK for student satisfaction in the 2013 National Student Survey (NSS) and in the top ten of all national league tables, including being named 'Best Campus University' in the Sunday Times Good University Guide 2014.
Our Mission is to deliver world class research and teaching, educating our graduates to become future leaders and innovators, and benefiting the wider population through our research, enterprise and influence. Our courses are innovative and interdisciplinary and we have an outstanding record of graduate employment.
View a full list of the University's press releases: http://www.bath.ac.uk/news/ or follow the University's latest news on Twitter @Uniofbath
For further information please contact:
Hannah Postles
Media Relations Officer
The University of Sheffield
0114 222 1046


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GoLite Wind River Softshell Pant
I love these pants, and I will wear them to work,…
Source: bought it new
Price Paid: $100
I love these pants, and I will wear them to work, to the ski hill, on trail or to a wedding. They're not waterproof, but they're warm-but-not-too-warm at room temperatures and don't get overheated during activity in cold weather. They have removable suspenders decent sized pockets too.
- Breathable
- Warm!
- Cute :)
- Ankle gaiter Velcro comes undone sometimes
- Can't cinch the pant legs
- Removing suspenders takes some practice...
I'm a petite, 5'3" girl who normally wears size 6, American. I've owned these pants for a year, and I think I wear them at least every other day anytime the weather is below 35F. The small GoLite Women's Softshell Pants fit me well.
I've had good experiences wearing these pants during may different winter sports of moderate intensity. They're great for winter walking or biking, good for classic skiing (but too warm for skate skiing). There aren't any adjustments for size, other than the suspenders.
The pants aren't waterproof, but they don't hold moisture at all either. I would only put a thin base layer under it though. Not super durable fabric, so don't go cutting down any trees in these.
Where to Buy
The Wind River Softshell Pant has been discontinued.MSRP:
$200.00 (men's)
The GoLite Wind River Softshell Pant is not available from the stores we monitor. It was last seen October 28, 2014 at GoLite.com.


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This little tree and I enjoyed the most brief warming of the sun and the beautiful canyon below.
Superb, heavy rains probably washed the dirt and exposed the roots, amazing!
Excellent use of a wide angle!
Wonderful shot!
Nice sunrise shot from Bryce Canyon
I love this tree with the exposed roots...it almost makes it look like the tree is walking down the slope. Great light and clouds, too!
Love this pic! The sunrise reflects beautifully.


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Prof. Dr. Ulrike Reisach: Challenges in Today's Transatlantic Business World
Guest Speaker: Prof. Dr. Ulrike Reisach, Neu Ulm University of Applied Sciences will address: Challenges in Today's Transatlantic Business World.
When: Wednesday, 25th October 2017
Time: Registration starts 1830; meeting starts at 1900, dinner buffet around 2030.
Where: Marriott Hotel, Berlinerstrasse 93, 80805 Munich
Cost: EUR 25.00 for members, Eur 35.00 for guests (incl. Dinner buffet)
Sign-Up: Events tab on the new AGBC Munich Community Platform at www.agbc-munich.com
Please join us for an enlightening discussion and general info on the state of the current transatlantic business and trade relationships between Germany/Europe and the U.S.
1. What are the similarities and differences in the perception of current issues?
2. What are the principal expectations and factors driving the relationship?
3. How will the US's current positions affect the relationship?
a. Within Europe?
b. With the current trade relationship between Canada and Germany/Europe?
c. With Germany and Europe's relationships with China?
d. Regarding German industries' trade and investment decisions?
e. Regarding interest and public perception of the USA and its role in the global order.
Ulrike Reisach PhD, Professor at the Neu-Ulm University of Applied Sciences, Bavaria/Germany, is an expert on communication and management strategies for leading international companies. She is teaching international strategic management, international business negotiations and intercultural communications. Regions covered: Australia, Canada, China, France, Italy, Japan, Singapore, South Africa, Turkey and the USA. Her research interests include the management styles and internationalization strategies of global companies as well as corporate foresight and innovation communication, corporate culture, corporate governance and corporate communications.
For 20 years, she has held management positions for corporate communications and international strategy development, such as Director of Siemens Corporate Communication and Government Affairs for the former CEO Dr. v. Pierer and Director Market Intelligence and Global Trends for the Siemens Corporate Development and Strategy Department. Based on her experience in many projects in Asia, especially in the People's Republic of China, and in the USA, she has published 12 books and numerous scientific articles on international management and knowledge transfer. Several editions of her book on German-Chinese Economic Co-operation have been leading textbooks for German managers' preparation for China. She is engaged in think tanks, research projects and working groups and a member of the China Expert Group at the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research for the Chinese-German Innovation Dialogue and Platform. For more information see http://www.ulrike-reisach.de/en/profile/


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Over the past few working days I've been making some minor enhancements / bug fixes to a reporting product currently in beta. Said product at a 50,000 foot view basically compiles a report into a massive structure which I then … Continue reading →
Handling encryption of SQL Server data on your own can get to be a huge pain, especially when someone starts asking for data out of the database such as "can you give me a report of all of our customers … Continue reading →
devnulled is a blog which caters to software development related issues with a pro-unix and open standards slant. Over the years devnulled has been featured on Slashdot, Digg, the Indeed Blog, O'Reilly Hacks, and del.icio.us/popular.
Brandon Harper, the author behind devnulled, is a Software Engineer primarily working with JVM languages and some occasional Javascript. He's been programming since age eight, professionally for over 14 years, and has been been published in various industry publications and popular websites. Brandon also enjoys music, photography, command prompts, and things with wheels and turbos a wee bit much.


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Not only did we bake bread, we ground our own flour in my new Vita Mix. Yep, I've gone off the deep end. It was super easy and quick but it is LOUD!
This bread rose like none I've ever made before!! I know one is bigger but that's just me not making the dough even in the pans. Are these huge, gorgeous loaves of bread or WHAT? It must be the fresh, ground flour. I only wish you could smell it. Mmmmmmmm...


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Buying a car is a big decision. So, when it comes to the question as to whether to pick new or pre-owned, it's certainly important to consider all of the factors. On one hand, you could save thousands of dollars by buying an affordable used vehicle; on the other, you can get some needed peace of mind by knowing that your new car has a lot of life to live. But which one is best for you? Here are the benefits and downsides of buying new vs. used cars.
Why Buy a New Car
1. Everything is Working as Intended
It's nice to have new things, and along with that comes the knowledge that your car is in tip-top shape. Buying a new car means that you know everything that's happened to it since it left the dealership, so there's no questioning its maintenance record or mileage. Keeping it running is just a matter of following the recommended auto service intervals.
2. There are No Hidden Problems
With a used car purchased from a third-party seller, you may not be given an accurate depiction of the car's condition. It may run well when you pick it up, but it could be just a week away from needing a new water pump—or worse. When you choose a new car, there are no potentially nasty secrets waiting for you.
3. New Cars Have Newer Features
We're not just talking about Bluetooth either, even if that is on your checklist. As you know, vehicles are designed to meet a higher standard each year, so the newer the vehicle model, the better. With a new SUV or car, you get fancy features like built-in navigation, larger touchscreens, dual-zone (or tri-zone) climate control, and many others. Furthermore, the latest models are equipped with the latest safety features, such as side airbags, anti-lock brakes, rearview cameras, lane departure warnings, and much more.
One of our favorite Chevy features is Teen Driver, which enables parents and guardians to monitor their new teenage drivers and set restrictions on car use. You can't have an eye on them all the time, but you can sure try.
4. Easier Financing
When financing a car, lenders want to know exactly how much it's worth before they put their stamp of approval on the paperwork. As it turns out, this makes new cars significantly easier to finance. This is because, with a new car, the price is already set and there are no hidden damages that could decrease its resale value. Even obvious wear and tear changes a used vehicle's price, so it takes financing specialists and lenders longer to figure out the risk involved.
If you need help financing a new Chevy in Olathe, KS, we're here for you! Simply apply for a Chevrolet loan and get pre-approved within seconds. Then, we'll contact you to discuss your options and set up a test drive.
5. Warranty
One of the biggest benefits of buying new is that you get a pristine warranty. So long as you keep your auto maintenance in order, warranties will protect your new car from devastating mechanical issues, keeping you on the road instead of trying to figure out how to pay the repair shop.
Why Buy a Used Car
1. Save Money
It goes without saying that used cars are going to cost less money to purchase, but just how much can be surprising. Keeping an eye out for a good used car deal can save thousands of dollars on a high-quality vehicle, so don't be afraid to really look at each one. A few small scratches and a little wear and tear are to be expected, though, so go into the shopping phase with an open mind.
2. Certified Used Cars are Practically New
If you keep your eye out for a good late-model CPO car with only a few thousand miles on it, then you might just find yourself a great price. It's no secret that pre-owned cars lose a lot of their value within the first 40,000 miles. However, most vehicles typically make it to 100,000 miles with little more than standard maintenance. This means that buying a slightly used car—like a certified Chevy—and trading it in every couple of years can save you some real money, while also allowing you to drive a car that's only one to two years old.
3. Better Resale Value Compared to Purchase Price
The resale value will actually be less than that of a car you bought new, but because a used car is most likely past its biggest value depreciation, the resale value is going to be a lot closer to what you paid for the vehicle in the first place. So, while you shouldn't expect to walk away making your money back during re-sale, you won't be losing as much as you would with a new car.
Best yet, you can trade in your used car in exchange for another vehicle at your local dealership. At McCarthy Chevrolet Olathe, we offer top dollar for trade-ins as well as up to $500 bonus cash. Click here to see what your car is worth.
4. Cheaper Insurance & Registration
Seeing as a used car is cheaper, there is less value to insure. Because of this, you can save a lot on your auto insurance premiums, which add up over a couple of years. It's also important to note that, in many states, older vehicles don't require as much registration fees as brand new ones. To check your Kansas vehicle registration costs, refer to the DMV website.
5. Cheaper Repairs
Though you need to be careful to check for maintenance records before buying, it's inevitable that your used car will need to be repaired down the line. That's where the savings on car parts come into play. Used cars have a unique advantage here as their OEM parts cost less over time.
When you buy a used vehicle or certified pre-owned Chevy at our Olathe dealership, you won't have to worry about false accident and vehicle history reports. All of our vehicles come with free CARFAX documents and maintenance records.
It takes a savvy person to accurately determine whether to buy new or used, but with these tips, you're sure to have the edge needed to make an educated purchase. If you still have questions about whether to finance a new car or used vehicle, feel free to contact the experts at McCarthy Chevrolet in Olathe, KS. Call our sales team at (913) 754-7208 or swing by our Olathe car dealership at 675 N Rawhide Road. We'd be happy to help you find the right vehicle, whether it's a new Chevrolet Silverado or pre-owned SUV!


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Nyc, United States
Fernando A. Núñez Rivera, also known as Fernandinho (F.N.H.O) was born July 3rd, 1986, in the city of Santiago de los Caballeros in the Dominican Republic. His artistic name in Brazilian is an attribute to his love towards the Brazilian culture.
In 2010, inspired by rhythm and ideas, he penetrates the world of DJ's having the talent to produce his own music.
F.N.H.O is inclined to produce music in the following genres: Minimal / Tech-house/ Tribal, influenced by figures such as: Marc Houle, Dubfire, etc. Although he has not expanded his style throughout the whole island, he has shown his talent in different locations, such as: Onno's Bar, Dubai Club, Bocanada Bar, Marum Lounge, Mamajuana Bar, Matero Discotec, Ahi-Bar Dance, Palafitos Bar, etc.
- Zelada Grace764 followers
- Lucca Fernando (official page)22 followersNyc, United States
- Steve Bug2,450 followersGermany


text: Thank you Lariel for some samples of this! I enjoyed this while on vacation because it was easier to carry(it was bagged) to breakfast thank loose. I was excited to get this because I LOVE anything lemon\lime. When I started steeping it I got kind of a kitchen cleaner smell aroma out of it. But as it cooled the aroma was more pleasant. The flavor was very nice. It was mellow but still had a nice citrusy taste to it. I really enjoyed it! Thanks again!


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The Biggest Clear Out
Sometimes your home is just crying out for a clear out, but if for example, you're moving into a home at the minute, then it's definitely going to need a clear out. When the home you're buying is the shape, location, and size that you want, it doesn't mean that's going to be the way that you want it inside. You might want to strip the kitchen back and get new cupboards, or even get the carpet pulled up so you can get some nice soft new carpet installed. Whichever it might be, you should definitely think about the cheapest bin hire that you can get in your local area. It saves you piling everything in your car and going to the nearest landfill site, a company will just come and do it for you. When thinking about clearing out your home, think about the things that really are clogging up your space at the minute. It might be a clunky TV stand or an old coffee table. See if you can replace things like this for more slimline and space-saving versions. You'll actually be surprised as to what you can get if you clear some room! If you've been in your home a while, one area we would definitely recommend clearing out would be your cupboards and the fridge. You don't realise how many things are actually stored here out of date until you do it!
Personalised Items
If you really want your home to be your own, then you're definitely going to have to think about personalising some items. A little bit of DIY is going to come in to play here, and we think you're going to do a great job at it. So, DIY tip number one, think about the little things like photo frames. Photo frames are the best way that you can showcase your memories around the home, whilst showing off something a little creative that you've done. How do you make a personalised one you ask, well, it's easy! First of all, you're going to need a completely plain wooden photo frame. The first thing you'll do is paint it completely. Since we're coming up to the festive season (sorry to mention it), you might as well think about colours such as gold, silver, or red. They're just more Christmassy themed if you ask us. Then, you're going to have to get a fine paintbrush out and paint whatever you might like on the photo frame around the edges. It could be something like a pattern, or you could simply go for writing down names, or a meaning for the photo frame. It's little touches like this that you could make around the home that we really love the idea of.
A Homely Touch
Everyone loves a homely touch to the home, and boy do we know a few ways that you can ensure you're using them. Homely touch number one, you need to make sure that you're keeping everything as cozy as it can possibly be. How do you do that you ask? Well, you start by thinking about the rooms that need it the most, and in our opinion, that's definitely the bedroom and the living room. The two rooms where you're most likely going to spend all of your time during your time as a homeowner. So, for the living room, we think that tip number one is to get yourself a fireplace if you don't have one already. We don't think there is anything nicer than being able to come home, sit in front of the fireplace, read a book, and simply relax. Yes, we did mention reading a book when there would be a TV right there. Reading is just so therapeutic, and definitely when you're sat in front of a crackling fire. Don't worry, you can get pretty cheap electric ones that should do just fine for you. Then, have a couple of candles dotted around to get the home smelling homely. Candles are really good for both aesthetics, and for giving a vibe that's just cosy and nice to be around! Anything that you really love about interior design, and anything you have spotted around the shops that you think would look so lovely in your home, just start implementing it. Everyone's idea of what a homely touch is is different. You just have to find out what the meaning of it is for you!
Some people think that upcycling properly means you have to become a master in DIY. It definitely doesn't mean that. Becoming great at upcycling is an art, but it doesn't take long to learn the skill. It's basically taking an old item that was most likely ready for the bin, and turning it into something that's going to last another few years in the home. We're going to focus on old furniture because out of everything, it's probably the first thing that people would just replace without giving a second thought. We want to focus on wooden furniture as well because it's just so easy to upcycle. There's a couple of steps to the process, and step number one is giving it a good clean. There's no point doing all that work to a piece of furniture when it is old and dirty! Then, you need to sand off all of the paint, if it had any. If not, sanding it down is a great idea anyway as it takes it back to basics. It'll take all of the varnish off, and give you a platform to work with! Then, you need to go an buy yourself some paint, gloss, and varnish. Once purchased, give the piece of furniture one coat of varnish. It will help to maintain that natural wood colour, and it really will look great! Then, start with your layers of paint. You should do around two or three layers, making sure that every layer has dried before you put the next on. This will stop it from going all bobbly and uneven. Then, you just need to apply your gloss for that perfect finish! You can do this with pretty much any piece of wooden furniture and it would just look great.
A Pretty Little Garden
We want to talk about the garden because we just feel as though it's sadly neglected. We're always so focused on making the inside of our home look pretty because that's where we think people will spend most of their time when visiting your home. So, why not draw the attention outside and create a whole new space for some socialisation. To make it pretty, you first need to give it a good clear out. Take out any dead plants, bring in any fallen leaves, and generally just spruce the place up a little. Then, mow the lawn and place grass fertliser and seeds down afterward. In a few weeks time, you'll have greener grass that'll be ready to be cut again. Then, go to your local garden store and buy plenty of plants. Buy all different colours to give your garden the best look. Once the flowers have spurted through, your garden really will be transformed into something pretty. Then, all you need to make sure you have is a great area to relax in. Just a nice garden furniture set would do, but you could take it one further and have some decking installed to make it look a little bit more upmarket!
So, after reading this, how do you want to make your home your own? We've given you tons of ideas that should help you to have the home that you've always wanted to have. Sometimes all it takes is a little bit of info, and some TLC to your home and you'll have the best home that you could possibly have.
Do you have any tips on how to make a home your own? Let me know in the comments below.
This is a partnered post


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Asphalt 8 Airborne Hack: Top 10 Tips and Cheats You Need to Know
Asphalt 8 Tips and Tricks to get more Legit Resources
Asphalt 8 Hack - All lovers of mobile games know that there's one top class racing game called – Asphalt 8: Airborne. This mobile racing phenomenon has all the luxury cars that we see in real life. The main distinction between real life driving and mobile driving is that you can accomplish a lot of tasks using these expensive vehicles. Asphalt 8: Airborne has a lot of stages and multiplayer aspects which can get a tad bit overwhelming at times, therefore, in this article you shall be given some advice about Hack Asphalt 8 also on how to be a winner and gain more legit resources. Here are the top asphalt 8 cheats, tips and tricks which are necessary for Asphalt 8: Airborne.
Make sure you earn Every Star on Every Stage
The unlockable stars available on each race are utilized with regards to unlocking new races and tracks. Stars are likewise great with regards to obtaining in-game items. Each time you win another star, this opens a one-time money bonus that can be received toward the finish of each race. Attempt and go for that one-time bonus for more cash by finishing each race.
Ensure to initially buy those car packs before buying anything else
You might not have any desire to use some real money on this game, however, if you do, feel free to buy those car packs. Car Packs incorporate vehicles that relate to each car class. Attempt and purchase any of these car packs from the beginning of the game.
Use Each Map to the Fullest
This is potentially the most significant hack to be a successful Asphalt 8 player. Every map has tons of hidden routes, shortcuts, and secret bridges. A few of these routes are shorter, longer, and the navigation difficulty ranges. To guarantee triumph, you should ace these routes and locate the one that best accommodates your style of driving while still ensuring you get an edge on the challenge. The ideal approach to do that is to play each stage multiple times while memorizing the tracks.
Become a drifting master with this Asphalt 8 Cheats
The ideal way to gain a constant supply of nitro is to drift during curves. To drift, you need to tap the brake button while racing. During drifting, you can safeguard speed during a curve, and also gain nitro, which is essential. Drifting is the most suitable way to fill up your nitro. By drifting, you can beat other racers and even knock out their cars with proper pushes.
Prevent your car from damaging by memorizing the Tracks
If you want to maintain the beauty of your rides, then it's necessary to have a full mastery of the tracks for those critical situations. Memorize all the stages, and you'll realize that it will be easy to become victorious without damaging your ride.
Purchase the necessary upgrades
The updates you'll have to purchase initially are the Handling and Top Speed features. The Handling update makes it significantly less demanding to control your vehicle, which ought to also make it less stressful for you to win a race. The Top Speed feature upgrades the speed of your car, making it easier to win races. At that point feel free to go for the nitro and quick overhauls.
Save your Nitro for the final Parts the race
It unquestionably bores when you lead the whole race to lose at the end. The ideal way to deal with this situation is to manage your nitro. Using your nitro on the last parts of every race is vital for winning the race.
Always watch your opponents score
When your opponent has a higher score, then they will potentially be more aggressive during race events. Opponents with higher scores can easily ram your vehicle to take the lead and even destroy your car. The takedown feature of this game has been balanced by the company, which mean your vehicle won't be damaged when it comes in contact with a boosting car. But, you can still destroy your vehicle by driving it into a wall or going off track. Always make sure that you are an aggressive player and don't be scared to be a dirty driver.
Go Airborne as many times as possible
Asphalt 8: Airborne was created so that you can quickly go airborne at the slightest opportunity. Ensure you do the barrel rolls and get all the air time available. Another simple asphalt 8 hack to enjoying your airborne is by using your nitro just before getting on barrel rolls.
Endeavor to unlock Those In-Game Bonuses
You will be rewarded with in-game bonuses for performing a few stunts during races. Below are some asphalt 8 airborne hack which can be practiced to pick up bonuses. - Take out other friends by knocking them down! - Slightly stay away from hitting other vehicles. - Hit many roadblock and cones. These rewards will lead to more in-game currency, so ensure you accomplish most of these tasks. Would you like to adapt to those new races and asphalt eight airborne seasons? Unlock every star. Stars are necessary for buying new vehicles. Each time you achieve a star, this opens a one-time cash bonus that can be gotten before the end of each race. Complete each race and gain all-stars. You generally get these rewards during races for accomplishing these tasks.
Block your friends
What do you do when you are in the frontline of the race? Draw off the Nitro and keep running in front of your opponent's right? Try not to do it. Catch the break and prevent the cars behind you before pulling your nitro. By this, I am saying that racers have to be dirty. Multiplayer racers commonly hit nitro to get ahead of the race; stop their endeavors by braking, hold up for three seconds, and after that hit nitro yourself.
Be an Aggressive Player
Asphalt 8 is indeed not a fair game. When you are an aggressive player, you gain more rewards. Ram your opponents before they ram your vehicle! Be a hostile driver. You won't lose your driver's license.
Play frequently and practice often
Practice makes all drivers flawless. Learn not to wreck your vehicle, and always practice on that track that's causing you to lose.
Download Links
- All copyrights reserved to their respective owners. Asphalt 8 - Gameloft


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Seven Tips to Establish a Habit
Seven Tips to Establish a Habit
For many of my patients, my advice comes down to something that seems so simple: change your habits. Whether it's smoking, over eating, inactivity, or inappropriate stress responses, they must choose to change.
Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.
–Albert Einstein
What does science tell us about changing those patterns of behavior? How long does it take to reverse years of bad habits?
Below, I outline seven ways to ease yourself into establishing a healthy habit.
Handwrite your lists
Simon Sinek in his presentation about why Good Leaders Eat Last, talks about the importance of making lists (among other things). Our bodies are programmed to accomplish physical tasks, like throwing a spear at our dinner. Most of what we do in day to day life is not physical however: plan a meeting, answer emails, make reservations for business trips. Throwing the spear is more gratifying for our brains. Making physical lists and crossing items off of those lists can give your brain the similar satisfaction of throwing a spear.
Interrupt routines
By using "if then" statements we can begin to reprogram our behavior. Heidi Grant, PhD discusses how this works with exercise. In one study, 91% of participants using the "If Then" method were still exercising months later. For example, "If today is Tuesday I will walk 2 miles".
This study supports that we should think in terms of the big picture of what we want to accomplish (macro goals) and use day to day to day activities to motivate you (micro goals). For instance, if you want to write a book (macro goal) start by writing 1,000 words every day (micro goal).
Eliminate Roadblocks
Examine what's standing in your way and plan around it. Example: my goal is to attend a yoga class early every morning. However, I find myself wanting to sleep in rather than get up and get dressed. The plan around this is to wear my yoga clothes to bed and have my shoes and bag with my mat at the foot of the bed ready to go. Avoid sleeping in by making it easy to get out of bed and out the door in the morning. Dr Jeremy Dean goes into more detail in his blog.
Find Accountability
Tell others what you are doing. Tweet about it, put it on your wall, let your coworkers know, and let your close friends know. If you find that someone else has similar goals… keep each other accountable. This effect was described in the 1920s and the the term coined in the 1950s: Hawthorne Effect. There are whole communities designed around this principal. This one uses allows you to set a goal in minutes. 21 habits will have you commit to 21 days and $21. For each day you meet the commitment you earn a dollar back. If you don't meet the goal the money is donated to charity.
Visualize Success
Recent neuroscience studies reveals that when we imagine ourself doing something, it triggers the same regions of the brain as when we are physically doing the thing. This suggests that the more we imagine ourselves performing a task, the stronger the neural connections will be to actually perform the given task. This study looked at increasing fruit intake through visualization. Try imagining yourself eating more vegetables, exercising more, even sleeping better. Perform this visualization exercise every day. Amy Cuddy, in this TedTalk, shares that even our body language can shape who we are. Men who stood in front of the mirror in a "Superman" pose and imagined themselves being stronger gained more muscle than those that assumed a "smaller" stance.
Give it 12 weeks (or more)
The idea that it takes 21 days to establish a good habit is probably flawed. There's more data to support that breaking a bad habit can be done in as little as 21 days. This study highlights that it can take anywhere from 18 to 254 days with the average being 66. Of note, missing one opportunity did not materially affect success.
My father used analogies often when we were growing up to drive points home. I find myself using them in my day to day life to explain difficult concepts to patients. One that I frequently refer to when describing disease processes is as a maze. Early in any disease process the walls of the maze are low, there are plenty of gaps in the walls to change paths and the walls are low. The further we progress down a disease's path, the higher those walls become and the fewer opportunities we have to change paths. Changing the way we live our lives can be difficult. Without that change, we are bound to stay on the same path we have always been.
"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit."
Breathing and Sleep
Breathing and Sleep
Usually when we think about breathing, it is not something we do consciously and focused. I am giving you two breathing techniques to help calm the mind, reduce stress and relax.
Nadi Shodhan Pranayama
The first technique is called Nadi Shodhan Pranayama, which is alternate nostril breathing. It is easy to do! You just need a few quiet minutes to start. It is a wonderful way to slow down at the end of the day.
1. Sit comfortably with your spine erect and shoulders relaxed.
2. Place your left hand on your left knee with the palm open to the sky or in Chin Mudra (thumb and index finger touching).
3. Place the tip of your index finger and your middle finger of the right hand between the eyebrows, your ring finger on your left nostril and your thumb on right nostril. You use the ring finger to open or close the left nostril and thumb for right nostril.
4. Press your thumb on the right nostril and breathe out gently through the left nostril.
5. Now, breathe in from the left nostril and press the left nostril gently with the ring finger. Removing the right thumb from the right nostril, breathe out from the right.
6. Breathe in from the right nostril and exhale from the left. That is one round of Nadi Shodhan Pranayama. Continue inhaling and exhaling from alternate nostrils.
7. Complete nine more rounds by alternately breathing through both nostrils.
Every exhalation, remember to breathe in from the same nostril from which you exhaled. Keep your eyes closed throughout the process and continue taking long, smooth breaths without strain or force. There are many benefits to this type of breath. It helps relax the mind and ease the body. It works therapeutically for circulatory and respiratory problems. It releases stress. It helps harmonize the left and right sides of the brain assisting in concentration. It also helps to purify and balance the energy channels of the body. Blood is purified of toxins. It helps reduce anxiety, depression and other mental illness.
Five Minute Breathing Meditation
Another type is a simple five minute breathing meditation. You can easily do this technique whenever you need to quiet the mind and focus. It is a breathing technique with a calming mantra that you recite in your mind. The mantra Om Ah Hum is a common Buddhist mantra that has a long history but is explained as body, sound, mind that is symbolized by the three words of Om Ah Hum. You can do this type of breathing without a mantra, but makes it easier to focus on breath and not other thought distractions, by using the mantra, as you breathe.
1. Sit in a comfortable, quiet position without gadgets or interruptions.
2. Relax your shoulders, rest your hands where they are comfortable, drop your head slightly and close your eyes. You can rest your tongue on the roof of your mouth to keep it moist.
3. As you take a deep breath through your nose, say the word 'Om' in your mind.
4. Hold the breath for a moment and imagine the word 'Ah'.
5. You can exhale through the mouth or nose as you think of the word 'Hum'.
As you breathe in deeply, concentrating on the mantra as you hold the breath and exhale, it will help you get into a meditative state. Try this technique for five minutes. You will notice you body at ease and your mind settled.
It takes a lot of practice to do these breathing techniques but they are so beneficial for you! As we tend to get easily stressed during the holidays, it is important to take a few minutes for ourselves and focus on our breathing. It is an easy way to reduce stress when life gets hectic!
Love and light, Toby
PHW Product Review – Viracid
PHW Product Review: Viracid
Cold and flu season is officially here! We're beginning to see more sniffles, coughs and colds. If you missed our post about ways to support your immune system or need a friendly review, read up on awesome ways to give yourself a healthy boost through the winter.
Shouldn't I just take an Antibiotic?
A question we hear on a daily basis is "Do I need an antibiotic for my cough/sinus congestion/sore throat?" Nasal congestion, sore throats, coughs/bronchitis are most commonly caused by viruses. Rarely will cold symptoms be caused by a bacterial infection. "But once I start taking an antibiotic I start to feel better!" I hear many of you thinking. The truth is, by the time we feel bad enough to contact the doctor for an antibiotic, the virus has about run its course and we'd be starting to feel better whether we would have started that antibiotic or not. Unless you are immunocompromised or have some other health condition that puts you at a greater risk to develop complications from a viral infection, it's almost always a better idea to treat symptoms in a supportive way rather than rushing for an antibiotic.
Which brings me to our first product review for a supplement we recently started carrying at Prairie Health and Wellness, just in time for those nasty cold symptoms that may come knocking on your door. Obviously we are big on prevention (refer back to those awesome ways to support your immune system we blogged about earlier), but sometimes those viruses get the better of us. Viracid is a supplement that is part of a protocol we recommend when those unpleasant cold symptoms attack.
Available in capsule form, Viracid contains immune-boosting vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, vitamin C and zinc. It also contains a synergistic blend of botanical extracts that have been shown to stimulate virus-killing immune cells, and contains extra antioxidant support to help extinguish the inflammation that contributes to those unpleasant cold symptoms. And the really cool thing about Viracid? Not only is it used acutely when we already feel terrible, but it can be taken in a maintenance dose throughout cold and flu season to help strengthen the immune system before we begin to experience the dreaded cough and congestion. There is no need to suffer through the symptoms of a virus and there are much better and healthier ways than treating with an antibiotic (which don't kill viruses anyway)! At Prairie Health and Wellness, our integrative approach can have you feeling better (and healthier!) in no time.
Step back into fitness
Life Happens
We try to avoid it but sometimes life gets in the way and we let excuses take over. A day of exercise missed turns into a week, which turns into a month and sometimes a year or more. During this time we tend to fall of the wagon of healthy eating and feel as though we have reached a point of no return. Each passing day of not exercising makes it more difficult. Without realization we begin to gain body fat, we lose all the lean muscle we have built. It isn't until we see pictures of our self on vacation or at a family reunion that we realize we have changed, changed in a way we are not proud of. It is in this moment of realization that we are inspired, more than ever before, to begin working out and eating healthy. But where do we start? It has been weeks, months and sometimes years of no movement. We are unaware of our limits at this point and have even forgot how to "train".
No time like the present
Don't let time away scare you! Kalene (from GoTimeTraining) has a few tips and tricks to get back on track and out of a rut.
Step 1: Make a Plan
Check out your weekly agenda. Where do you have breaks in your day or where can you carve out wasted time to fit in exercise? Set aside an hour 3-4 days per week in which your primary goal is to MOVE.
Step 2: Move
Simply moving is more than you are currently doing. Test your cardiovascular strength with a simple walk around the block. If this is easy, gradually increase the walk to a jog or light run. Movement will make your body and mind feel better.
Step 3: Resistance Training
Resistance training helps to build lean muscle mass. The more lean muscle mass the more calories one burns at rest. (i.e. more bang for your buck) Incorporate resistance training into your regimen. This can be a weight or bootcamp class at a local gym, hiring a personal trainer or educating yourself enough on proper resistance training and form then conducting it on your own.
Step 4: Stretch
Your muscles are most likely tight and not moving through their proper range of motion. Incorporate a dynamic warm up, proper cool down and stretching throughout the day to keep you limber and mobile. A great form of stretching is yoga. Check out www.myyogaonline.com for Yoga videos you can do in the comfort of your own home.
Step 5: Eat Right and Hydrate
Nutrition is key to losing weight and properly fueling your body for exercise. Meals consisting of protein, fats and carbohydrates will properly fuel and replenish your body. Hydration is also key to continuous energy. You will be exerting more energy than before. You will most likely break a sweat or two therefore it is important to replenish with plenty of H2O.
Step 6: Sleep
Sleep is overlooked in this overworked world we live in. The added work load of exercise you are putting on your body will need time to rest and recover which is done while sleeping. Aim for 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep per night in order to wake up energized and able to repeat your newfound passion for exercise on a daily basis.
Step 7: Don't give up
Do not give up when you feel as though you can't take anymore. Instead focus on the positives and tell yourself by doing this for YOU, you will be one step closer to a health, happy you. It takes approximately 21 days to break old habits and form new ones. When that alarm goes off an hour earlier than you are used to it will be tempting to hit the snooze button. But wait! Remember the feeling you have after a good workout. You feel accomplished, energized and like you are able to take on the world.
I hope this inspires you to get out of a rut and get moving. As owner of GoTimeTraining my passion lies in helping others reach their health and fitness goals. As a team, we have dedicated our lives to educate and inspire our community to make a lifestyle transformation centered around health, fitness and nutrition.
Check out our blog, www.gotimetraining.com, for more fitness tips and tricks and don't be shy, stop in to see us for a FREE bootcamp, register here.
In health and happiness,
Kalene Smith
Owner GoTimeTraining
ACE Certified Personal Trainer
Broccoli Sprouts and Autism
Mom's were right! Eat your Broccoli.
Phytochemical Extracted From Broccoli Sprouts Shows Promise For Autism Symptoms
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) describes a range of conditions classified as neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by social deficits and communication difficulties, repetitive behaviors and interests, sensory issues and in some cases, cognitive delays. While it is currently unknown how many people have ASD, it is estimated that 1 in 68 children (1 in 42 boys) are affected by this condition – and the incidence appears to be rising. Science does not know the exact cause of ASD but most researchers agree that genetic and environmental factors play a role.
With no drug or medication available to treat the core symptoms of ASD, many are turning to more conservative methods. Doctors are starting to recognize the significance of diet, the importance of reducing inflammation, and the improvements seen by correcting key nutrient deficiencies. Research shows there is a huge gut-brain connection; so establishing a healthy gut has also been helpful for children with ASD.
A study was published last month that showed promising results in young men with ASD being treated with a phytochemical known as sulforaphane, a naturally occurring substance found in broccoli sprouts. In a placebo-controlled, randomized, double-blind study, researchers were able to show that daily administration of sulforaphane for 18 weeks to 29 young men with ASD had significant improvement in symptoms compared to the 15 young men who received the placebo. The study even went further to show that when these young men discontinued the use of the sulforaphane, their symptoms returned. While this study had a small subject group (only 44 young men), this is encouraging news for many who are affected by ASD.
The decision to use sulforaphane in this study was based on its ability to reverse abnormalities associated with ASD, including oxidative stress, depressed glutathione synthesis, reduced mitochondrial function and oxidative phosphorylation, increased lipid peroxidation and neuroinflammation.
While I wish I could say, "Go gorge on broccoli sprouts…" (which may not be a bad idea anyway), the therapeutic dose is delivered much more efficiently and effectively in supplement form. At Prairie Health and Wellness, we carry BrainSustain for Kids which contains sulforaphanes and other anti-inflammatory, brain-supportive goodies. This supplement is not only intended for children with ASD, as it was designed to enhance brain development and performance in children. This comes in a powder that is easy to add to any breakfast or snack-time smoothie, and does not contain any wheat/gluten, corn protein, soy protein, yeast, fish/shellfish, animal or dairy products, artificial colors or sweeteners, or preservatives.
Boost Your Immune System
7 Ways to Boost Your Immune System During Cold/Flu Season
1. Cut Back on Sugar
While this is especially difficult during the holiday season (Halloween candy, pumpkin pie, Christmas cookies…) one of the best things you can do is limit your sugar consumption. Sugar promotes inflammation in the body and leads to suboptimal immune system performance. Get creative this year and look for healthier versions of holiday treats. Think less "processed" ingredients, and more "whole food" ingredients.
2. Physical Activity
Daily physical activity/exercise has many obvious benefits – it helps regulate blood sugar, promotes healthy weight and fights depression. It also makes for a strong immune system. Don't fret – marathon training is not necessary. Research shows that even short bouts of exercise stimulate immune-functioning cells. Shoot for 25-30 minutes of physical activity daily.
3. Get Adequate Sleep
Believe it or not – lack of sleep can affect your immune system. Studies show that people who don't get sufficient amounts of sleep are more likely to get sick when exposed to a virus, such as the common cold or flu. Do yourself a favor and make sleep a priority – your immune system will thank you, and you'll decrease your chances of catching that dreaded bug.
4. Reduce Stress
Easier said than done, especially during the holiday season! Stress suppresses immune function – so discovering ways to find your Zen is crucial for maintaining a strong immune system. Consider meditation, deep breathing and yoga to help you deal with crazy kids and "well-meaning" mother in laws this holiday season.
5. Vitamin D
We hear a lot about vitamin D these days, and for good reason. Research is revealing multiple benefits of having sufficient amounts of vitamin D, one of them being a strong and properly functioning immune system. At Prairie Health & Wellness, we recommend having your vitamin D level checked at least once per year. We then can recommend specific dosing based on your needs in a safe and effective manner.
6. Vitamin C
Another super vitamin for supporting those immune-fighting cells! Studies show that by taking vitamin C at the onset of cold or flu symptoms, the number of days you'll be under the weather may be shortened.
7. Probiotics – Beneficial Bugs
Another fascinating area of research – did you know that our human cells are outnumbered by bacteria almost 10-to-1…trillion!!!??? We're starting to learn more about these omnipresent microbes, and while some types of bacteria can certainly make us sick, many "beneficial bugs" can help keep us well. Maintaining a proper balance of favorable bacteria is key to a happy and healthy immune system.
Breast Cancer Awareness
History of Breast Cancer Awareness
As we're sure many of you know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We start seeing a lot of pink – from little pink ribbons pinned on our shirts to pink merchandise and Races for a Cure.
Did you know the original idea behind bringing awareness to breast cancer actually started with a salmon-colored ribbon? And that the woman behind the salmon-colored ribbon intended it to shed light on the fact that the National Institutes of Health was only contributing 5% of their annual $1.8 billion budget to cancer PREVENTION?
While raising money for cancer research can hardly be considered a negative thing, have you ever wondered just exactly where that money goes? If you're purchasing pink, the majority of your money is benefiting the company behind the product – not breast cancer research.
We challenge you to "rethink pink" when purchasing various products from companies sporting the pink ribbons. "Pinkwashing" is a term given to companies taking financial advantage of breast cancer awareness, and what's worse is that these companies are selling products that may contain substances KNOWN TO PROMOTE CANCER. A bit contradictory, right? Here are a few examples:
- KFC "Buckets for the Cure" – The National Cancer Institute associates increased breast cancer risk with "high intakes of well-done, fried or barbequed meats"…
- Avon "Breast Cancer Crusade" – The Environmental Working Group's Skin Deep database categorizes more than 140 of Avon's products as high hazard due to the presence of hormone disruptors and other possible carcinogens.
- Campbell's Soup "Cans for Cancer" – The lining of these cans contains bisphenol-A (BPA), a substance linked to breast cancer tumor growth.
- Mike's Hard "Pink" Lemonade, Seasonal Edition – Drinking moderate amounts of alcohol have been linked to breast cancer.
The list goes on and on. What can you do? Think before you pink. Ask questions. Even better, donate directly to a reputable cancer research organization.
We're not totally against pink. We view Breast Cancer Awareness Month as a time to bring attention to ways that we can educate people on how to PREVENT breast cancer.
Join us Monday, October 13th at 6:30pm as Joleen Zivnuska presents on an Integrative Approach to Preventing Breast Cancer.


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The Well-Worn Baby Shower:
- Come to the store and choose your favourite things.
- We'll put them aside, photograph them and post them on this site.
- Your friends and relatives can come, or phone/email us with their choices
Gift wrapping is available for $2 per gift.
Gift certificates are available in any denomination.
We can take credit card payment over the phone.


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Minnesota hot Rod shop
Where We're driven to Build Your Dream Car
The Hot Rod Factory is Minnesota's premier hot rod shop and muscle car restoration facility. With over 17,000 square feet we are also Minnesota's largest!
Nobody builds muscle cars the way we do.
Our attention to detail will simply amaze you. You decide on the desired level of restoration for your car – or we find the car for you and build to your specifications.
We do everything in-house – from beginning to end – including:
- award winning bodywork and paint
- custom upholstery
- chassis restoration
- chassis fabrication
- pro-touring
- sheet metal repairs
- airbags
- big brakes
The Hot Rod Factory's ultimate goal is to build your dream ride to your satisfaction.At the Hot Rod Factory, we believe in honesty and integrity. This is evident in our workmanship, policies, billing and our desire to listen to our customers. We recommend options and carry out your decisions.
We pride ourselves on establishing a relationship with our customers. A good line of communication is key to a successful restoration.
Classic Hot Rods
The Hot Rod Factory's personal policy is to work in an organized and efficient manner. Our approach to each task is well thought out as to the best method, materials and equipment to use on your classic hot rod.
Each employee's goal is to give our customers the ultimate labor hour for every hour charged. At the Hot Rod Factory we give weekly updates on how your vehicle is progressing including parts list, billing invoices, labor records, and photos covering before and after repairs.
The condition of the vehicle you begin with and the level of restoration you desire will determine the cost to you. We are here to build your dream ride YOUR way!
Completed Cars
Current Projects
The Hot ROd Factory Story
Hot Rod Factory Owner Rich Wait
Meet Owner Rich Wait
Rich Wait started building cars in a small garage for his own use.
Now, after 20 years doing business as the Hot Rod Factory, Wait is an widely sought expert.
The Hot Rod Factory has primarily done regional work, but has expanded to meet the demands of national and international clients.
His customers rave about his team's ability to fulfill complete builds including bodywork, metal work and all aspects of vehicle construction.
The Hot Rod Factory will even hunt down the right car for customers and restore it to it's full one-of-a-kind potential.
Meet Rich in person when you visit at Minnesota's Hot Rod Factory.


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BEIRUT (Reuters) - The head of an Arab League mission investigating if Syria is following a peace plan said he saw "nothing frightening" in the flashpoint city of Homs but many residents said they were already losing trust in the monitors.
Sudanese General Mustafa Dabi said his team needed more time to inspect Homs before giving a final verdict, but residents in the hard-hit Baba Amr district where the team took an initial tour said they felt monitors were not responding to their grievances.
"There were some places where the situation was not good," Dabi told Reuters by telephone on Wednesday. "But there wasn't anything frightening, at least while we were there. Things were calm and there were no clashes."
Homs is the heart of the nine-month uprising against President Bashar al-Assad's rule and has become one of its bloodiest hotspots as armed rebels emerge to fight government tanks and machine guns.
The monitors are checking to see if Syria is withdrawing its troops from cities and halting the violence that has threatened to spiral into civil war.
"I felt they didn't really acknowledge what they'd seen—maybe they had orders not to show sympathy. But they didn't seem enthusiastic about hearing people tell their stories," said Baba Amr resident and activist Omar.
"We felt like we were shouting into a void," he said,
"We placed our hopes in the entire Arab League," said Omar. "But these monitors don't seem to understand how the regime works, they don't seem interested in the suffering and death people have faced."
Activists said they showed the team buildings riddled with bullets and mortar rounds and pointed out what they said were tanks but only had two hours to give them a tour.
Dabi said his team did not see tanks but they did see some armored vehicles. He said his team planned to visit Baba Amr again.
"The situation seemed reassuring so far," he said. "But remember this was only the first day and it will need investigation. We have 20 people who will be there for a long time."
The monitors visited the families of people killed in recent violence as well as some of the wounded.
Rami Abdelrahman, the head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, said most Baba Amr residents were disappointed with the mission the team should be given more time.
"They need to give them an opportunity, not too long, but long enough for them to make an inspection before we make judgments. We cannot judge them based on the first day," he said.
Mohammed Saleh, an activist in Homs told Reuters on Tuesday that the army had pulled tanks away from the perimeter of Baba Amr in what critics said was a move to hoodwink monitors.
Residents in Baba Amr were angry that they could not convince the monitors to go into the worst-hit neighborhoods of the district, he said.
A video clip posted on the Internet on Tuesday appeared to show the monitors touring Baba Amr as angry residents shouted at them and tugged on one monitor's jacket, pleading them to enter their neighborhoods as gunfire erupted in the background.
"Come and see, they are slaughtering us I swear," a man yelled.
A Homs resident who asked not to be named said the visit did allow activists to bring more supplies into areas surrounded by security forces.
"The only good thing that came out of its visit is that we managed to bring food supplies to the neighborhood and to other areas," he said.
Additional reporting by Mariam Karouny


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A recent study released by the National Center for Family & Marriage Research at Bowling Green State University found that although the overall rate of divorce in the country continues to fall, divorce rates among baby boomers are on the rise. In fact, separations for those over the age of 50 recently doubled. In addition to starting a trend called "grey divorce," boomers are also exploring alternative ways to finalize their divorces. Instead of following the more traditional courtroom divorce process boomers are considering mediation and collaborative divorce as options.
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6011 Hotel Collection by Leisure Rest
This bed made by Portland Bed Manufacturing is plush. It has an 880 individual coil system. This mattress is also known as the "Wine glass" or "Bowling ball" bed, because you won't feel others move around. Its individual coils contour perfectly to your body and provide the perfect amount of support where you need it. Great for back, side or stomach sleepers! All American components and Oregon made.
- 880 individually wrapped pocket coils, 13 ga perimeter 15.0 gauge interior
- Steel perimeter border wire with edge support
- 1.25″ Super Soft foam
- 3/4″ Gel Memory foam
- All foams are 1.58 density or above
- Thick Bamboo knit plush top quilting
- All adhesives are eco-friendly, non-toxic
- 10 year, non-prorated warranty


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We are a team of experienced gardeners, offering garden maintenance services across South and West London. We specialize in garden maintenance, garden make overs, horticultural services and soft scaping in South and West London.
We are able to supply a massive range of plants for your garden through out the year as well as other garden products such as composts or lawn products.
We are also able to suply and install paving, fencng, decking, and natural turfing please enquire.
Our hours of operation are Monday - Friday 08:00 - 18:30
We cover a majority of areas in South and West London
Please send us a message with a picture of your garden, the area or post code the garden is in, and any other relevent details regarding the job via our contact page. We will get back to you as soon as possible with a rough cost and our soonest availbility.
See our services pages for materials we are able to provide and install, as well as tips and information on garden maintenance and landscaping
Garden Maintenance
- Tree pruning
- Lawn care
- Patio jet washing
- Garden cut backs
- Garden tidy up's
- Decking cleaning
- Decking staining
- Mulches feeds and more
Please send a picture of your garden via our contact page for an estimate
Garden Make overs
We are able to supply and install a massive range of plants through out the year. Please send a picture of the garden as well as the address or post code and we can let you know some plant sugestions as well as a rough cost.
Please send a picture of the area as well as the area or post code and we can get back to you with availbility and a rough cost.
Turf can be laid all year round except when the weather is below freezing
We can supply and install natural turf and organic soil.
We can also help rejuvinate and maintain lawns please send a picture of your lawn if you requre advice or would like tips on how it could be improved. Likewise if you requre a rough price to relay it or help maintane your lawn.
Fencing, Trellice/Lattice and gates
We are able to repair, replace or build from scratch new fencing using panels or feather edging.
Below are examples of fences we could build for you and materials we are able to supply to build your new fence.
Cedar landscaping baton
This picture is an example of a custom build trellis using a Cedar landscaping baton. If you require an estimate to build sothing like this please send a picture of the space via our contact page.


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Excellent Home Security Advice To Ensure Your Home's Safety
Home Improvement July 23, 2017
Home security is a very important topic to all, but it is something that people do not truly understand. A good way to guarantee a safe home is to review the topic in a thorough manner. This article is filled with useful tips that ...Read More


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Life Update! Quade, Weight Watchers, Faith, Hollywood, and Random Stuff!/
I hope you don't mind, but this blog post is going to be a little on the casual side.
The truth is, I have not had as much time for the blog over the last six months because I was pouring myself into writing my next book. (More details about when that's available soon!) It's hard to write a book and write articles at the same time, and of course there is that sweet baby Quade that I get to parent and love. I kind of forgot because it has been five years since I had a baby, but these littles are a lot of work! This is a good thing, but life balance is suddenly all out of whack for me. So let's catch up a little, shall we?
Our little red Fox enjoyed his smash cake though he didn't really dig into it!
Speaking of Quade, let's start there. It's been ONE YEAR, people! Did the time fly for you like it did for me? I have cherished this year to my core. Quade continues to be the most delightful baby. Here are a few fun things that make him different from his three older bros:
Quade is our best sleeper.
He is our best eater.
He is not as into nursing as his brothers were. I think his nursing days are coming to an end soon. Sniff. Sniff.
He wouldn't take a pacifier, just like big bro, Quinn.
Quade is our most easy-going baby. Oakley was pretty chill too, but Quade is even easier.
Quade took more time to crawl than his brothers and so far, he isn't walking. His brothers walked at 9 and 10 months!
Quade likes his bath time but only for a short period. His brothers could have played in the tub all day!
Quade does well in the car. He's much more willing to drive for extended periods without fussing than his brothers were.
We celebrated our sweet little red fox's birthday this weekend. Here are a few pictures! You can check out Instagram for more.
Brothers Are Forever Friends!
Chocolate Cake (homemade) is a MUST for birthdays around here. One of our few family traditions!
Gifts galore! He loved tearing off the paper. Thankful for generous friends!
I officially weigh in this week, but I have finally met my 20 lb goal! Yay!!!! This process has been significantly slower than I want, but I'm learning to be patient with myself. I have to keep remembering that it's been slow but steady. I had a plateau for about 7 weeks straight, down to the ounce. It was frustrating, but I also couldn't do anything extreme over the summer to really get the scale to budge. I lived life! I traveled! I enjoyed my baby! And the scale didn't move down. But it also didn't move up! I call that victory. Now that I have reached my 20 lb. goal, I'm determined to keep going! My husband and I just joined a gym, so give me your best tips. When do you make time to work out? I feel like making this a routine will be my biggest challenge, but I really want to make it a priority.
Most of you probably know that my husband and I run a family and faith-friendly production company, Storehouse Media Group. We are officially in development with a major network, on a show we created, but there is a lot to do still before you can watch it. Please keep praying us through as we work on the pilot script, casting, and the many details that go into making this happen. Please pray for open doors and wisdom in the process. Thank you! Can't wait to share more about this soon!
We were off on a "date night" to see the premiere of the Heart Of Man Movie! Don't think poorly of me, but my one New Year's Resolution this year was to learn how to wear false eyelashes. Yeah, I aimed low this year. But I did it! These ones were too long, but I went with it!
It's good for us to take time to be still and listen to the Lord. I have found that there is always something God is teaching me. Lately, I'm learning to let God be in control more and more. There are circumstances in my writing, producing, family, and personal life that I simply have no control over right now. That said, I have been experiencing a deep peace that can only come from God. So much is at stake, and yet I don't feel panicked, anxious, or upset. I sense God is right beside me, leading me, and allowing me to rest in Him. Often, when I'm driving, or in the shower, or stirring dinner over the oven, I take these moments to talk to the Lord and ask Him to intervene on my behalf when there is nothing I can physically do to change someone or something. It gives me perspective, reminds me that God is for me, and that nothing is an accident. I can leave it in God's capable hands! My lack of control isn't making me fearful, it's making me free! Free to let my mind rest and my heart trust in the Lord who sees all things and has a good plan for my life. This is true for you too. If you, like me, have some situations or people that affect your life, but you can't do anything about your particular circumstances, spend some time each day prayerfully releasing your concerns and desires to the Lord! He's got you!
Meanwhile, my husband and his buddy Josh just installed new flooring in our house, I decorated for fall, and I'm starting to think about Thanksgiving dinner. Ha! Quade and I joined a mommy and baby Bible study and my boys joined a local soccer league. We have had all kinds of car trouble in recent days. It's refining, right? I decided that the one thing I would do for some "me time" is get a gel manicure every few weeks and it makes my feminine heart happy! Guy and I have been slacking on our date nights though we have been to a number of red carpet premieres for some amazing films (be sure to follow my Instagram for fun industry pics). I won a contest at Wood Ranch for a steak dinner for four and I can't wait to have filet and a baked potato. With sour cream and chives, thank you very much! I'm having oral surgery in a couple weeks. Hold me.
I love the panels that follow premieres! That's Paul Young, author of The Shack. It was a highlight to get to talk with him about writing books after the film. I did get a selfie with him and post it on my instagram!
Guy surprised the boys by taking them to a private taping of their favorite show, Bizaardvark! What a treat to hang out with the cast and meet all the crew!
There you have it. Thanks for catching up with me!


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This Life Beyond
© by Anonymous
I watched a sail until it dropped from
sight. Over the rounding sea a gleam of
light at last far flashed farewell, and like
a thought - slipped out of mind, it
vanished and was not. Yet, to the
helmsmen standing at the wheel broad
seas still swept beneath the gliding heel.
Disaster? Change?
He felt no slight sign, nor dreamed he of
that dim horizon line. So may it be per
chance, when down the tide our dear ones
vanish. Peacefully, they glide on level
seas nor mark the unknown bound. We
call it death - to them 'Tis Life Beyond.
Submitted by Lillie Jean
Poems List


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10 of the hottest 2019 road bikes
You misspelt ugliest. Except the Colnago, which would look OK, if it were given a better paint job.
The bike shops are full of new road bikes for 2019; here are 10 of the most eye-catching.
Loads of the new road bikes that have been revealed over the past few months are equipped with disc brakes and that's reflected here. There are certainly new rim brake designs being released, and we've included several, but big brands are concentrating their research and development on disc brake bikes because that's the way they believe the market is heading.
Most of the new bikes we've included here are pretty expensive. That's because new releases tend to be pricey before the technology gradually trickles down the range over time.
Don't worry if your favourite new bike isn't included; we'll have more 2019 bike roundups on road.cc over the next few weeks.
Check out all of our road bike reviews
Cannondale claims that its new SystemSix, available only with disc brakes, is "the world's fastest UCI-legal road bike", largely thanks to an aerodynamic performance that has been honed by computational fluid dynamics modelling and the wind tunnel.
Cannondale says that it has tailored the airfoil profiles of the various parts of the frame "with differing degrees of truncation designed to maintain flow attachment across important yaw angles to minimise drag".
The £3,499.99 SystemSix Carbon Ultegra comes with Fulcrum Racing 400 DB wheels and a Shimano Ultegra groupset, including hydraulic disc brakes.
Get all the tech details on the Cannondale SystemSix
Read about our first ride aboard the Cannondale SystemSix
Find a Cannondale dealer
Specialized has radically redesigned its Venge aero road bike for 2019, giving it an all-new frame and fork that's compatible only with disc brakes and electronic gears – meaning that there are no complete bikes available for less than £6,250. Gulp!
The new Venge is lighter and faster than the previous version but we found that it's the much-improved handling and stiffness that most sets it apart.
Get all the tech details on the Specialized Venge
Check out our Specialized Venge first ride report
Find a Specialized dealer
The new Look 795 Blade RS aero road bike features truncated aero section tubes, an invisible seatpost clamp and an integrated aero cockpit. The seatstays are long and curved and there's no brake bridge between them. The design is intended to allow some vertical movement for increased comfort and traction. The bike is available in both rim brake and disc brake versions.
Get the full story of the Look 795 Blade RS
Find a Look dealer
The latest version of Giant's hugely popular endurance road bike has wider tyre clearance than previously (up to 32mm), tubeless tyres and D-Fuse handlebars that are designed to provide extra compliance. The Defy Advanced Pro 0 also comes with Giant's new Power Pro dual-sided power meter, which looks like a great deal for £4,499.
Get all the tech details on the new Giant Defy
Read about our first ride on the Giant Defy Advanced Pro 0
Find a Giant dealer
The Strada aero road bike was initially designed with a single chainring transmission in mind but 3T has now added the Strada Due to the lineup, giving you the option of fitting an electronic groupset with a double chainring. The seat tube has also been beefed up a little to support the use of the front mech, but that change aside it's the same as the original Strada.
Read our report on the launch of the 3T Strada Due
Check out our first ride on the 3T Strada Due
Trek's new Madone road bike comes with adjustable IsoSpeed (a system that decouples the seat tube from the top tube to smooth the ride) and an updated geometry.
Read our guide to Trek's 2019 road bike range
The rim brake bikes are slightly lighter than the newly introduced disc brake models, but Trek says there's no aerodynamic penalty in going for discs.
The Madone SLR is a high-end option, even the most affordable rim brake option, the SLR 6 P1, is £5,500.
Read our report on the new Trek Madone here
Check out our guide to Trek's 2019 range
Find a Trek dealer
A cheap entry on a list of the hottest bikes? Why not? Decathlon has added two new disc-braked models in the popular Triban range and they look like exceptional value for money. The £530 Triban RC 500 and £730 Triban RC 520 share the new Evo 18 6061 aluminium frame, with a tall head tube, steeply sloping top tube, fittings for racks and mudguards and clearance for tyres up to 40mm wide.
These are deeply practical bikes, but they're not unexciting. It might take a little while to wind them up to speed but once there they boom along very nicely!
Read our review of the Triban RC 520
Get all the details of the new Triban RC 500 and RC 520
Find a Triban dealer
Genesis has added disc brake versions of its Zero carbon fibre race bike for 2019, with 12mm thru-axles and flat mount disc brakes. The aggressive geometry is unaltered.
You can buy the frameset for £1,699.99 or pay £2,699.99 for the complete bike with Shimano's second-tier Ultegra groupset, including hydraulic disc brakes.
Check out our first look at the Genesis Zero SL Disc
Find a Genesis dealer
The updated Colnago C64 builds on the success of its predecessor with a raft of refinements that bring enhanced stiffness, comfort and clearance for wider tyres. It isn't so much a revolution as an evolution, and it's the best C series yet, and one of a handful of bikes still made in Italy.
A complete bike with disc brakes starts from £7,739, which isn't cheap by anyone's measure, but is it worth it? "Smooth, fast, light, surefooted, fun... the C64 is one of the nicest bikes I've had the pleasure to review," said our David Arthur, and he's a man with exacting standards!
Read our review of the Colnago C64 frameset
Find a Colnago dealer
Ridley has redesigned its top-level aero road bike with channels towards the front edge of the tubing that are designed to act as vortex generators to reduce drag. The fork integrates with the frame, the seatpost clamp is hidden from the airflow and an integrated handlebar/stem is fitted up front. The cabling is internally routed through the bar/stem and Ridley claims a weight saving of about 250g over the previous Noah. Both rim brake and disc brake versions are available.
The aim of road.cc buyer's guides is to give you the most, authoritative, objective and up-to-date buying advice. We continuously update and republish our guides, checking prices, availability and looking for the best deals.
Our guides include links to websites where you can buy the featured products. Like most sites we make a small amount of money if you buy something after clicking on one of those links. We want you to be happy with what you buy, so we only include a product in a if we think it's one of the best of its kind.
As far as possible that means recommending equipment that we have actually reviewed, but we also include products that are popular, highly-regarded benchmarks in their categories.
Here's some more information on how road.cc makes money.
You can also find further guides on our sister sites off.road.cc and ebiketips.
Road.cc buyer's guides are maintained and updated by John Stevenson. Email John with comments, corrections or queries.
Mat has been in cycling media since 1996, on titles including BikeRadar, Total Bike, Total Mountain Bike, What Mountain Bike and Mountain Biking UK, and he has been editor of 220 Triathlon and Cycling Plus. Mat has been road.cc technical editor for over a decade, testing bikes, fettling the latest kit, and trying out the most up-to-the-minute clothing. We send him off around the world to get all the news from launches and shows too. He has won his category in Ironman UK 70.3 and finished on the podium in both marathons he has run. Mat is a Cambridge graduate who did a post-grad in magazine journalism, and he is a winner of the Cycling Media Award for Specialist Online Writer. Now pushing 50, he's riding road and gravel bikes most days for fun and fitness rather than training for competitions.
I never used to think much of specialized, but this year they seemed to have won me over. The Venge and Tarmac (well maybe the colnago as well) are the only bikes i would get envious over. The bikes just look correct, which probably means they are. They also come with great paint jobs too.


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Hardwood flooring is an excellent choice for virtually any business, but unfortunately, it can be difficult to maintain. Thankfully, DBM Janitorial offers hardwood floor cleaning services to help the hardwood flooring in your business look as good as new all year long. Even after heavy traffic, your floors can shine with the help of our knowledgeable floor care experts.
While other commercial cleaning companies may turn to harsh chemicals to clean hardwood flooring, we take a different approach. Because we want to preserve your flooring, your health, and the environment, we use green cleaning agents that are both effective and safe. Our products and equipment gently clean your hardwood flooring to bring back its original lustre.
DBM knows that you have a number of choices when it comes to caring for the hardwood flooring in your business, so we go the extra mile to provide service technicians who deliver quality service. We want to be your #1 choice for cleaning and janitorial services, so we background check and drug screen each employee prior to hiring. Additionally, all of our employees are bonded and insured.
When you welcome one of our friendly technicians into your place of business, we want you to know that you're going to be taken care of by an expert in floor care.
In addition to offering our Dallas-area clients the best in hardwood floor cleaning and commercial cleaning services, we also offer flexible scheduling. Your business is important to you, so we'll never disrupt your daily operations with our cleaning services.
When you partner with DBM, we'll work with you to create a schedule that fits your needs. Whether you need daily, weekly, or monthly cleaning, we can design a service plan for you. Our team can also come out to clean your hardwood flooring before or after a major event.