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Galleried Jewelled Pendant
A classically designed light shade pendant with a fun, modern twist, this non-electric and easy to fit Galleried pendant has a shiny antique brass frame, which supports a stylish sprinkling of clear and multi-coloured droplets and beads.
These catch the light for a twinkly effect, and we love the coloured beads and droplets that add a really quirky side to this pendant.
Requires max 40w bulb (not included). Available separately is a chandelier (item number 3JXL4) and table lamp (item number 3JXL3).
H 48, W 22 cm
Useful info:
- Galleried jewelled pendant
- Non-electric; easy to fit
- Antique brass frame
- Clear and multi-coloured droplets and beads
- Bulb not included
Kristina Light Shade Pendant.
Non electric and easy to fit, the Kristina light shade pendant will transform your ceiling light in minutes.
The gorgeous ornate design is highlighted by a steel frame and acrylic beads and jewels.
Stunning enough during daylight hours, they take on a whole new dimension in the evening, catching the light and casting a pretty pattern across your walls and ceiling.
Useful info:
- Kristina light shade pendant
- Dimensions: H 39, W 27 cm
- Non electric; easy to fit
- Metal frame
- Acrylic dressings
- Requires max 60-watt bulb (not included)


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Students in Northwest Suburban High School School District 214 could soon have more options exempting them from gym class for the year, the Daily Herald is reporting.
The school board is discussing whether to allow participating in an ongoing competitive marching band program, and enrollment in the school's Reserve Officer's Training Corp as reasons for exemptions. These would be added to the three existing exemptions already in place. The board will vote on the issue at its Oct. 18 meeting.

subset: commoncrawl


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On Tuesday November 6, eighth graders at Benicia Middle School got some practice in the fine art of electioneering and a practical lesson in differentiating between the popular vote and the electoral vote.
Students were assigned to different states where they cast their vote for president with the state outcomes determining how the electoral votes would be cast.
While there was no smoky back room there was some wheeling and dealing going on as kids vied to become electors and earn the right to announce how their state's electoral votes would be cast.
A candidate for president needs to 270 electoral votes in order to win the election. Each state has as many electoral votes as it has members of congress. The students learned how a candidate can win the popular vote and lose the election.
"I think the electoral college should be disbanded," said Aaron Franke. "I think all votes should count equally." Franke's opinion about the electoral college was shared by many of his classmates regardless of which candidate they preferred.
The voting produced a few surprises like Kansas and Oklahoma breaking for President Obama and Washington, D.C. and Rhode Island supporting Romney.
The biggest surprise though was when the 38 electoral votes from the State of Texas pushed President Obama over the magic 270 number.
The eighth graders in Benicia Middle School are now 1 for 1 in predicting who will be elected president.
Do you agree with a large number of eighth graders at Benicia Middle School that the country should do away with the electoral college? Tell us in comments.
Do you subscribe to the Benicia Patch newsletter? It brings our latest stories, blogs, announcements and the day's calendar events to your in-box early each morning. Follow Benicia Patch on Facebook and Twitter.
Do you have opinions, experiences and views to share? Consider becoming a Benicia Patch blogger!
If there's something in this article you think should be corrected, or if something else is amiss, call editor JB Davis at 707-628-0051 or email him at firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Mission Statement
USA Racquetball (USAR) is the National Governing Body for the sport of racquetball, recognized by the U.S. Olympic Committee and is committed to excellence and service to our members. We provide opportunities for members and enthusiasts to actively participate in the sport, through sanctioning of events, administration of programs, and development of competitive teams.
Vision Statement
To provide racquetball opportunities in the sport of racquetball for all levels of participation through:
Additional Information


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Welcome to Embellish Salon and Spa
Please visit us in our brand new, luxurious, state-of-the-art facility
Embellish Salon and Spa is a full-service salon and spa located in Coeur d' Alene, Idaho. Embellish offers a wide variety of services, including custom hair and nail services, relaxing and therapeutic massage, professional skin care, a make-up studio, hair extensions, eyelash extensions, and bridal services. This spacious facility has been custom-built and designed for client comfort, and offers many areas of semi-private services for a relaxing atmosphere. We take pride in providing our clients with professional, enjoyable, and relaxing services.
Visit us on social media for current information,
specials and promotions, and to see examples of our beautiful work.
See Ashley's Bridal Work at Apple Brides.


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— —
Basketball fans in the hockey haven of Western New York harbor a fantasy that the Toronto Raptors will someday come to town to play a game at Buffalo's HSBC Arena, completing a karmic exchange with the nearby metropolis that annually borrows their beloved Bills.
Up in Canada, there's at least one man who would also like to see that happen. And he happens to be the head coach of the Raptors.
Jay Triano, 58, grew up in Niagara Falls, Ont., just a few minutes from the Rainbow Bridge. His high school years coincided with the Buffalo Braves' brief run as an NBA playoff team. He eagerly awaited the few Braves "home games" at Toronto's Maple Leaf Gardens, and on occasion, he'd drive over the border to buy a standing room only ticket for games at Buffalo's Memorial Auditorium.
"That was my team," Triano said after a Raptors shootaround the day after the Bills played in Toronto. "Bob McAdoo, Ernie D., Jim McMillian, Gar Heard, Randy Smith, those were my guys. It was an exciting time for me. I was a basketball fan and a player and that's how I got introduced to the NBA."
Triano also developed an affinity for Little 3 basketball, particularly the Niagara Purple Eagles. He fondly recalls watching Calvin Murphy play on Canadian television.
"He's very familiar with the rich tradition of Niagara basketball and the Little 3 and has great appreciation for it," said former Purple Eagles coach Jack Armstrong, who has been part of the Raptors broadcast team for the last 13 years.
Triano was the leading scorer all four seasons at Simon Fraser. He set 11 school records, including the all-time scoring mark of 2,616 points. He also played football as a senior. During the summers, Triano would go to the Gallagher Center looking for quality pickup games.
In 1981, Triano was drafted in the eighth round by the Los Angeles Lakers and in the sixth round by the CFL's Calgary Stampeders. He later received an invitation from former Niagara coach Frank Layden to attend the Utah Jazz training camp.
The pinnacle of Triano's playing career came on the international stage. He played for the Canadian National Team for 11 years, serving as captain from 1981-88. He participated in the Olympic Games in 1980, 1984 and 1988. He played in the World University Games four times, including in 1983 when Canada won the gold medal and he led the tournament in scoring. In 1985, he carried the Canadian flag during the opening ceremonies in Japan.
Triano's father, Howie, was a longtime high school coach in Niagara Falls, where he still lives.
"His father was a terrific player and coach," Armstrong said. "The family has a great love for the game."
The Triano coaching legacy began in 1985 when Jay returned to Simon Fraser as an assistant. He became the school's head coach in 1988, and stayed there until 1995. In 1992, he joined the coaching staff for the Canadian National Team. He took over as head coach of the national team in 1998 and served in that capacity until 2004. He led Canada to a semifinal berth in the 2003 FIBA Americas Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Puerto Rico and a 5-2 record in the 2000 Olympics that was second only to the United States.
Triano broke into the NBA in 1995, working as the director of community relations for the expansion Vancouver Grizzlies. He also worked as a radio and television analyst until 2001, when the franchise relocated to Memphis.
The following season, Triano joined the Raptors staff as an assistant to Lenny Wilkens. He served as an assistant for the next two coaches, Kevin O'Neill and Sam Mitchell. In 2008, Triano became the first Canadian-born head coach in the NBA when he was named the interim replacement for Mitchell.
"Jay is a very humble guy that has paid his dues, come up through the ranks, done things the right way and treated people with respect," Armstrong said. "He gets it and he doesn't take himself too seriously. When you see a guy like that get the opportunity of a lifetime, you're just so happy for him."
Triano took over after 17 games and guided the Raptors to a 40-42 record. The team won 22 of 32 games at one point, but dealt with key injuries down the stretch and missed the playoffs by one win.
"At times on the sideline, he has a very stoic personality," Armstrong said. "But he's a very intense competitor and a tough guy. He knows when to be low key and knows when to be more forceful. He's a very balanced guy, and that's a hard thing for a coach to do in a very competitive business."
Triano received a three-year contract extension in 2009. In his first full season on the sideline, the Raptors were six games above .500 and fifth in the Eastern Conference standings in early March. An injury to franchise forward Chris Bosh coincided with a late-season demise, and the Raptors once again missed the playoffs by one spot.
After the season, Bosh left Toronto to take his talents to South Beach, and the Raptors suddenly entered a rebuilding phase. Management has established that making the playoffs this season is a secondary priority to developing the young talent base. Starting point guard Jarrett Jack was recently traded for a prospect, Jerryd Bayless. Entering today's home game against the Knicks, the Raptors are 8-11, having won two straight.
"He's in a difficult situation right now, but it fits his personality," Armstrong said. "He's demanding, yet he's patient. When you have young players, they are going to tick you off a lot because they aren't going to get it, how hard you have to play every possession and a lot of the little things. At times you want to lash out and at times you need to lash out, but he does it in a way that he doesn't lose them."
Triano said the coaching he received when he was a young player who still didn't get it has guided him through a career that has already been enshrined in the Canadian Basketball, Canadian Olympic, Basketball British Columbia, Basketball Ontario, Simon Fraser Athletic and Niagara Falls Halls of Fame.
"It all happened for me in Niagara Falls," Triano said. "If it hadn't been for a good high school program and all the people that helped me, it all wouldn't have happened."
Contact reporter Jonah Bronstein at 282-2311, ext. 2258.
Triano is a reason to root for Raptors
— —
Basketball fans in the hockey haven of Western New York harbor a fantasy that the Toronto Raptors will someday come to town to play a game at Buffalo's HSBC Arena, completing a karmic exchange with the nearby metropolis that annually borrows their beloved Bills.
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- NU NOTES: Lewis, Kuhn Exler named to MAAC Honor Roll
- More Sports Headlines


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Founded in April, 2012, The The Entrepreneurial Think Tank for Moms mission is to connect like minded women, network, build relationships, learn from and support each other in personal and business growth.
In our meetings we share experiences and ideas on time management, dealing with stress, self improvement, and so much more.
Elaine Morales, speaker, author, and life transformation coach helps women who are obsessed, distressed, and downright depressed by on-going food drama in their lives to break free and achieve their ideal weight while enjoying food and loving life.
Register for this workshop here:


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Daily Iowegian
The Centerville City Council Monday night voted 5-0 to offer Corey Goodenow, Chariton's city manager, the temporary city administrator job.
Centerville Mayor Jim Senior said Goodenow would put in 40 hours per week by working nights and weekends, which would require Joyce Davis, temporary city clerk, to put in overtime.
Councilman Edwin Brand questioned the wisdom of adding more overtime for Davis who already has accumulated a lot.
A second individual who applied, Dick Schrad, with Schrad Solutions, LLC in Knoxville and the City Council favorite going into Monday's meeting, took himself out of the running after seeing the city's software and deciding he would not be able to get the fiscal year 2014 budget done in time.
Davis said the city's proposed fiscal year 2014 budget, which starts July 1, 2013 and runs until June 30, 2014, has to be submitted to the state auditor by March 15.
Davis said she was confident if Goodenow was hired, the city would be able to get its budget submitted on time.


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July 30, 2014
Stay up-to-date with KAKE News:
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Warren Theatres raised a new screen at their World Class IMAX Theatre Tuesday. The new 3D Silver Screen is the finest IMAX screen now available and will improve the quality of the already spectacular IMAX picture by increasing light levels by up to 50 percent.
"This theatre has been one of the most successful IMAX Theatres in all of North America," said Bill Warren, Warren Theatre President. "But out philosophy has always been to stay ahead through new technology. When we find something that can improve the motion picture experience for our customers, we take advantage of it. It would be easy not to make those kinds of investments, but that's not who we are."
The Wichita IMAX was closed on Monday and Tuesday so the original screen could be taken down and the new screen raised. Nearly 60 people, including Warren staff members, hoisted the screen in place so final adjustments and testing could be conducted prior to re-opening the IMAX on Wednesday.


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News Article
Reaper Episode 4
"The Favorite"
Written by: Michele Fazekas & Tara Butters
Directed by: Kevin Dowling
Original Airdate: 24 March 2009
In This Episode…
Sam wins $1,000 from a lotto scratcher, but his plans to use the money to take Andi on a vacation with his winnings are thwarted when the Devil insists the money go towards bailing Morgan out of jail. Who is Morgan? The Devil's son – and Sam's half-brother. A slick, smarmy Wall Street douchebag. The Devil freely admits he plays favorites towards Morgan.
Sam's soul this week belongs to Evan Fitzgerald, an aged shipping magnate who's back on Earth to reclaim his treasure trove of antiquities. The greedy old man was said to have swallowed his gold coins on his death bed so that no one could have his money. One of the last items on Fitz's list is a portrait of himself. The Devil tells Sam he must steal the portrait from the gallery that owns it in order to lure Fitz to a place where he could safely be caught. To make matters more aggravating, the Devil tells Sam that he wants him to mentor Morgan, hoping that some (not too much) of Sam will rub off.
The boys abscond with the painting (after Morgan bails in favor of a party) and bring it home. While trying to decide what to do with it, deadly golden beetles start creeping into the house, signaling Fitz's arrival. These gold beetles started as the coins Fitz swallowed. He coughs them up and they turn into gold beetles that like to kill by crawling into ears. Sam, Sock and Ben partake in Stooge-style slapstick trying to keep the bugs at bay. In the commotion, Fitz slips in, steals the painting, and leaves. Pretty stealthy for an ancient zombie.
The guys must now track down Fitz and send him back to hell. They find a shipping container where Fitz has been stashing his booty, but there is no old man. Morgan steals one of Fitz's rings, which brings him out of hiding. When Fitz and a minion of beetles converge on Morgan, he panics and throws the ring to Sam. Sam offers the ring back Fitz, who unhinges his jaw, Grudge-style, and insists Sam drop the ring in his mouth. In doing so, Sam vessel-izes Fitz, turning the beetles back into gold coins.
Elsewhere, Sock outsources his work to his unemployed former manager. Nina admits to Ben that their sex life is lacking. Ben fears that she is disgusted by his human form, or is not comfortable in her own human skin. She finally admits that, when she used to be an angel, she fell in love with a human who was later killed when she was changed into a demon, and she is afraid to love again.
Dig It or Bury It?
This episode should have been awesome. Ol' Fitzy was basically a zombie (other than the insatiable appetite for brains) and his legion of beetles were shiny and decently bad-ass. Yet he only had scant minutes of screen time. The rest of the episode was wasted on Ben being a big girl about his relationship, and Sam whining about how "Daddy likes you best." On the upside, there was some good humor in this episode.
Vessel… To Hell!
Easily the most boring vessel so far: a dagger. A dagger is so boring – it's such an obvious weapon! How about a cowboy hat? Or a spoon? No one ever suspects the spoon. Nevertheless, a dagger was the vessel. Sam jammed it into Fitz, quick and easy. He also learned the hard way that the vessel does not work on the beetles.
Funny Devil
This episode was lousy with humor. I loved the slapstick scene of Sock, Sam and Ben swatting each other to save themselves from brain-eating bugs. Sock actually hits Ben over the head with a frying pan. A couple of good one-liners: when Ben asks Nina how demon food differs from human food, she says, "It's usually still squirming." And when Sam whines about the Devil playing favorites with Morgan, the Devil's only words of comfort are, "I'm always going to like him a little better than you."
It's Three Work Bench Employees and a Baby. I don't know whose baby it is, or where it came from, but most people would probably agree that a baby would be better off with OctoMom than these three goofballs.


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Ginger Biscuit Roll
Pinched 40 timesGrocery ListAdd this recipe to your Grocery List PrintPrint this recipe and money-saving coupons PhotoShare a photo you've taken of this recipe RateRate this recipe & leave a comment or review
|double cream, whipped
|ginger nut biscuits (or any other cookies you like)
|fresh fruit (or tinned fruit at a pinch)
|grated chocolate
|toffee shards or floss
The Cook
Full Flavored
Nth Stradbroke Island, Australia
Member Since Feb 2012
Jaded's notes for this recipe:
I love this recipe as it can be made with any biscuit (cookie) you like. The stronger flavoured ones are best but will work with any. I love the ginger taste in this. We have a biscuit (cookie) that is quite hard and spicy called Ginger Nut, that is what I used here but you can use a chocolate flavoured one too which is called a Choc Ripple Cake. Like I said any biscuit works.
With no cooking involved the kids can do this all by them selves. Spread a decent dollup of cream between the biscuits and sandwich together to form a log
Work fast, when you have a log long enough for your needs wrap in plastic wrap tightly and refidgerate for a few hours... over night is better.
Once the cream is absorbed and the log should be firm. Spread more cream around the log and decorate just before serving with fruit, chocolate, glace ginger... what ever you like.
Slice on the diagnal and it gives a nice visual slant in the slice... Very rich but oh so moreish!!!
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Mango and Halibut Ceviche
Yield: 5 Cups
1 lb. Halibut, cod or other white firm fish, cut into small pieces
½ cup finely diced red onion
¾ cup Fresh lime juice
½ cup Fresh lemon juice
½ cup finely diced Jicama
2 Tomatoes, seeded and diced
1 Mango, seeded and diced
1 Jalapeño pepper or Serrano pepper, seeded and minced
1/3 cup Chopped fresh cilantro
2 Tbs Extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp. Salt
¼ tsp. Freshly ground black pepper
Method of Preparation:
1. Combine first 4 ingredients in a large glass bowl, pressing fish down so that it is submerged in liquid. Cover and chill 3 to 4 hours, stirring occasionally, until fish is opaque in center. Drain.
2. Combine jicama, if desired, tomatoes, and remaining ingredients in a large bowl. Stir in halibut and onion. Serve in cocktail glasses or a lager bowl with chips or tostadas, you could even serve as fish tacos!


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Herald Staff Report
Officials with the Clinton Fire Department have determined a house fire that left one person in critical condition Sunday was caused by a candle.
The fire was caused accidentally when a candle was knocked over and ignited material on the floor, officials said.
The Clinton Fire Department responded to 2351 Chancy St. shortly after 1:30 a.m. Sunday to a call of a possible structure fire with one occupant unable to get out of the house, according to Battalion Chief Michael McQuistion.
When crews arrived they found light smoke coming from the residence and were informed one person was still inside the house. Firefighters went into the home and extinguished the fire in the room it had started, where the occupant was located.
The victim is in critical condition at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics burn unit, officials said.


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Gender: Male
Years in Practice: 32 Years
Languages Spoken: English, Spanish
Medical School: University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry
Graduation Date: 1982
Hospital Affiliations: Lodi Memorial Hospital
Specialties: Pulmonary Disease
©2005-2014 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. See additional information.


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Africa News blog
African business, politics and lifestyle
from Global News Journal:
Drugs fuel turmoil in West Africa
"Nino" Vieira's past as an old soldier was never far from the surface. It can have surprised few in Guinea-Bissau that the old coup maker's death came at the hands of troops who turned against him in a country perpetually on the edge of failure because of military squabbles driven by centuries-old ethnic rivalries and the newer influence of drug smuggling cartels.
Covering the campaign for Guinea-Bissau's first multiparty election in 1994, I found President Joao Bernardo Vieira far from being the most talkative of politicians. Sometimes actions said more. After one campaign stop, and in view of attendant dignitaries, Nino grabbed a military aide by the ear after he had caused offence and twisted it until he squealed in pain.
President Vieira emerged in the 1960s and 70s as one of the leaders of the fight to drive Portuguese colonialists from Guinea-Bissau, a country of swampy inlets, a scattering of islands and a scrubby interior that sent little to the outside world but cashew nuts - before the coming of drug traffickers in recent years made cocaine a more lucrative export for the few involved.
Vieira seized power in a bloodless coup in 1980, took Guinea-Bissau away from a Marxist path and was elected in 1994 when donors started demanding democratic reforms across Africa. Trouble came when he fell out with an army chief in the late 1990s, prompting a rebellion that forced him from power.


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Why Is It Hard to "Just Say 'No'"?: Ten Barriers to Asserting Your Individuality, Intentionality, and Integrity – Part I
Posted by
Gorkin, Mark
at Wednesday, 02/06/2013 3:27 pm
Currently 3.2/5 Stars.
3.2 from 27 votes
When it comes to dealing with stress, most of us are familiar with the "R and R" recommendation – Rest and Recreation. However, "N and N" may be just as critical: the ability to say "No" and to "Negotiate." Over the years, I've heard more people declare that, "Until I learned to say 'No,' I was living on the edge of stress!" My home grown "aphormation" (a neologistic mix of aphorism and affirmation): A firm "No" a day keeps the ulcers away, and the hostilities too!
Still, for many folks across the generational spectrum, saying "No" with conviction requires more than "Just Say NO" exhortation. While a clear "No" is a vital tool for being assertive and effective at the work, home, and relational battlefronts, however, to paraphrase the old caveat, when it comes to saying and meaning "No"…even for many adults, it's easier thought than said or done!
Let's examine why many folks have difficulty using this provocative two-letter "N"-word; let's explore "Ten Barriers to Saying 'No' and Setting Healthy Priorities-Boundaries":
Societal Norms. When it comes to role behavior, our culture is no longer so locked into sexual stereotyping. Men are not exclusively aggressive (hunters) and women are not the only nurturers (gatherers). Nevertheless, some inhibitions if not prohibitions still exist (not to mention the fact that women still do a disproportionate share of the childcare and housework). Glass ceiling issues regarding equal pay and career advancement are still a reality, especially for minority women. And an aggressive and mentally sharp businesswoman can still be labeled a "shrew" rather than being admired for being shrewd or savvy, terms often garnered by her male counterpart. To the degree that there are gender differences regarding: a) early socialization in the family and/or in the classroom, b) access to appropriate mentors and positions of institutional authority, and c) stereotyping and/or discrimination in various shapes, sizes, ages, and colors then the playing and labeling fields will not be level or just. For many women, appropriate aggression and vital assertion will seem less natural; it may feel less safe in key roles and relations to set limits and boundaries, to just say "No!"
Family Values, Sibling Order and Attitudes. Let's sharpen our focus by concentrating on, perhaps, the most powerful socializing force -- the family. And while families certainly can reinforce sex-role stereotyping, let's not overlook the fact that a variety of family factors come into play when examining an ability to say "No" in interpersonal situations. Also, both by temperament as well as upbringing, there are many men for whom being assertive or setting limits is a daunting task. Here are a variety of family dynamics:
a. Birth Order.
Birth order may be influential; firstborns often feel more pressure to be the responsible "good child." Parents may be more relaxed and lenient with subsequent children. For these offspring saying "No" may seem less daunting.
b. Substance Abuse.
Substance abuse in families may also contribute to a sense of shame around being aggressive, especially if an abuser was often enraged or out of control of his emotions or his life responsibilities. Other children prefer to hide or become invisible; some act out their hurt, anger, and shame (also providing a distraction for the abusing family member).
c. Autocratic and Judgmental Figures.
Rigidly righteous parental figures or other significant authorities demanding absolute loyalty may stifle healthy individuality. Or a child shamed into silence if not into unquestioned loyalty for fear of being exposed as disrespectful, defiant, or damaged goods may have difficulty setting boundaries. I've tried to capture the resultant autocratic irony in my "Law of the Loyalty Loop and Lock": Those who never want you to answer back always want you to back their answer!
d. Shaming Anger and Individuality.
Families who view emotionally expressive children (especially the emotion of anger) as "mad" or "bad" or who attempt to stifle a child's separation and individuation process through threats or guilt too often raise bottled-up children (or offspring who eventually hit the bottle). This constrictive and controlling mode of relating is often fueled by a sense of emptiness, shame, and fear of abandonment.
3) Fear of One's Own Aggression.
Some individuals cut off their aggressive feelings because they are afraid of or ashamed of their own potential for explosiveness. To succumb to anger means you are being irrational or "out of control"; perhaps an antagonist has gotten to you. To show anger is a sign that your opponent has "won." A family member who psychically collapses, guilt trips, or explodes when a child expresses anger may be teaching a powerful lesson: not only is your anger wrong but, in addition, you are destructive (to yourself and toward others)!
Please note…it takes a lot of energy to turn aggression inward and bottle it up. Expending all this conscious and unconscious effort to hold back a natural part of your "self" is not only energy depleting and exhausting. This process of self-constriction may induce a sense of helplessness and depression.
4) Fear of Retribution or Rejection.
Another factor is that others may resent your attempt at being assertive or saying "No." Will the other person subtly put you down, openly attack, or expose your vulnerabilities? Will this antagonist use ridicule, or perhaps reject you for not giving him what he wants? Will a supervisor hold a grudge or believe that: a) her authority is being challenged, b) you are being resistant or defiant, or c) she is being shown up?
Or will your "No" be a sign that you are behaving out of character. You are not your "self." The opponent may attempt to trivialize your position or demonize your person: "What's wrong with you!" An assertion of difference or individuality may lead to ostracism by a peer group.
5) Fear of Justification.
Related to the above, some folks back away from saying "No" because of that potentially intimidating counter: "Why not?" Now you feel on the spot. And the rejoinder, "I just feel this way right now," is never acceptable. Of course there are situations when we need to back up our "No" with a reasoned explanation. However, there are many occasions when "I'm not sure" is an honest and acceptable response. Having the strength to be tentative or being able to take a time out is often a desirable problem-solving step. You are asserting your space even without providing an overt "No." (This is a useful and honorable step if, in fact, you do further reflection or research and then get back to the other party in a timely manner.)
6) Fear of Being Labeled.
For some in authority the first sign of a subordinate's "No" signals trouble and, not surprisingly, the naysayer is a "troublemaker." Or he has a "bad attitude" and is not being a "team player." Conformist "group think" is often a byproduct of a powerful (yet insecure) individual or environment that has little tolerance for a "No." When a person with a contrary idea or belief is dependent on the authority figure (psychologically, financially, etc.) or such a person feels vulnerable in his or her position then, not surprisingly, staying in the authority's good graces is a paramount motivator. Self-censorship or doctoring the message is not unlikely.
7) The Boundary Issue.
Regarding interpersonal engagements, we all have a sense of a physical space and a psychological space that influences our own levels of comfort or discomfort. This feeling of comfort is a function of both actual and emotional closeness (and commitment) and distance (or detachment). I call this psychosocial dynamic one's sense of "personal space." (Comfort in personal space is also influenced by cultural norms and practices, e.g., the accepted physical distance between parties engaged in conversation.) Too much actual or perceived closeness (smothering anxiety) or too much distance (separation anxiety) often triggers issues related to: a) status and self-esteem, b) threshold levels for losing control, emotionally or behaviorally, c) predisposition for emptiness or depression, d) dependency issues and the fear of losing one's self in a codependent relationship or, conversely, e) a desire to be enmeshed with the other so as to numb or obliterate alienation and/ or isolation as well as a tormented self.
Of course, being enmeshed in a group sometimes allows individuals to be defiant and to act out their aggression, fears, or feelings of inferiority because of the anonymity found in group membership. (Think of group scapegoating.) Also, having group cover makes it easier for an individual to deny or diffuse responsibility for his or her actions.
A Personal Vignette: Bullies without Boundaries
Let me share a personal example. From the age of ten to fourteen, two of my "friends" living in the same six-story apartment building would frequently bully me, mostly verbally and psychologically. One night the tormenting had reached such a crescendo that in a panic state, despite feelings of fear and shame, I finally cried uncontrollably to my father. My dad immediately went upstairs and confronted the father of one of the bullies. Alas, we didn't talk further about why I wasn't able to stand up for myself or why I wasn't able to stay away from my tormentors. (I suppose a significant part of the answer for a lack of self-integrity and chronic helplessness relates to my overt symptomatology merely being part of the dysfunctional family iceberg. To the degree my father was not ready to confront his own coping strategy for dealing with long-standing mood swings and depression – ongoing twice/year electroshock therapy as opposed to seeking psychotherapy – I too would anguish and suffer in shame and silence.)
Alas, neither my dad's intervention nor my tortured silence would allow for healthy distance from my antagonists. The next morning I was ringing the doorbell of one of the bullies for our daily trek to school.
"My god, why?" you might ask. It's tragically simple: I was so frightened that they would really be plotting against me, that they would be seeking revenge for my having exposed their bullying. Hyper-vigilance necessitates being in close proximity. (Alas, I had many of the symptoms of a battered spouse.) Healthy boundaries are not possible when you have so little sense of self. (And this feeling of helplessness and hopelessness is only exacerbated by unrecognized childhood depression.) The torment you know is preferable to the imagined (or unimagined) torment conceived in a near paranoid or panic state. And, not surprisingly, as an adult it took years of therapy to resurrect to full consciousness this traumatic period of my life. It often requires healthy dependence with a therapist or a support group as well as personal courage to grieve fully the years of pain, panic, and silent shame of a long-standing abusive relationship.
8) Inability to Know or Trust One's Gut.
As we've seen, there are a variety of critical conditions contributing to both the muffling of an inner voice and an inability to risk shedding a pleasing, traumatized, or muted persona. Consider this sequence of obstacles to "getting real":
long-standing feelings of inadequacy or unworthiness,
growing up in a family that shames, slams or shuns the expression of feelings, especially anger and
over time, losing the ability to recognize and label your feelings. For such a person, his inner emotional world is mostly numb. Not surprisingly this person is often very fearful, truly having "no guts" to trust. (Conversely, in his emotional ignorance, the battering personality labels most emotional experience or expression that's not aggressive in nature as a sign of being a wimp or of being unmanly. For this psychically stunted individual, "emotional" people are whiners; pathetic whiners at that. Of course, a batterer might see himself as a "strong silent type." Though I suspect the more accurate dynamic is as follows: "For me to be strong you must be silent!")
9) Fear of Being Alone or Abandoned.
When a fear of actual or psychological abandonment infuses the parent-child dynamic, a child may take on a false, "too good" persona. Alas, what often gets lost is the necessity for setting boundaries and the need for some conflict in establishing an identity. A child's ability to say "No" to a parent or even "I don't like you" is not automatically or simply a sign of willful defiance or a negative or hostile personality. Such a stance may also reflect a child who is evolving a fairly solid, "good enough" sense of self. The child is not so symbolically tied to the parent; he or she can risk some emotional separateness. There's some basic trust, mostly on an unconscious level, that a "No" will not trigger physical or psychological aggression or abandonment by the significant adult. And, of course, learning early that you do not have to swallow a "No" for fear of parental rejection eventually makes it easier to "Just say 'No'" to adolescent peers as well as McDonalds' fries.
10) Fear of Standing Out. Some individuals are afraid of projecting their individuality.
They would rather blend into the crowd, conform to the norm, or replay the "invisible child" role (a not uncommon development for a sibling in an alcoholic or abusive family). Others are afraid to say "No" for fear of confrontation: "So what would you do "Mr. Negative?" Suddenly, an upfront contrary stance has you on the spot, if not in the spotlight. Now performance anxiety pressure is building. As we've noted, whether out of jealousy or a perception that you are defying role proscriptions, a "No" can be seen as a selfish act or as a declaration of disloyalty. And for the target of such a judgmental barrage, self-censorship is not the only worry. For people who continually fear and suppress their own complex and genuine individuality, there is as much "safety" in being numb as there is safety in numbers.
Closing Summary
This segment has focused on ten psychosocial barriers to affirming priorities, setting boundaries and saying "No!" Of course, in response to the above barriers, there are some aggressive personalities who spew a reflexive and rigid "No!" Not surprisingly, some of the same underlying issues are at play: fear of losing control, feeling put down or shamed by an authority, feeling stifled, fearing a loss of self, perceiving closeness or emotional dependence as a sign of weakness or as an invasion of one's overtly fortified and covertly vulnerable psychological and physical space. However, "Ten Barriers to Saying 'No' and Setting Healthy Priorities-Boundaries" has examined the imploders more than the exploders.
Let me recap the ten basic barriers and challenges to saying "No":
Societal Norms
Family Values, Sibling Order and Attitudes
Fear of One's Own Aggression
Fear of Retribution and Rejection
Fear of Justification
Fear of Being Labeled
The Boundary Issue
The Inability to Know or Trust One's Gut
Fear of Being Alone or Abandoned
Fear of Standing Out
Clearly, these can be powerful deterrents to recognizing and experiencing your individuality and integrity, that is, your genuine needs, wants, joys, fears, passions, and beliefs…your separate and genuine self or true spirit. Learning to say "No" is vital for surviving and thriving in today's ever demanding, work-life boundary busting world.
Mark Gorkin, MSW, LICSW, "The Stress Doc" ™, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, is an acclaimed keynote, kickoff and webinar speaker as well as "Motivational Humorist & Team Communication Catalyst" known for his interactive, inspiring, and FUN programs for both government agencies and major corporations. In addition, the "Doc" is a Team Building and Organizational Development Consultant as well as a Critical Incident/Grief Intervention Expert for Business Health Services, a National EAP/Wellness/OD Company. He is providing "Stress and Communication," as well as "Managing Change, Leadership and Team Building" programs for a variety of units at Ft. Hood, Texas and for Army Community Services and Family Advocacy Programs at Ft. Meade, MD and Ft. Belvoir, VA as well as Andrews Air Force Base/Behavioral Medicine Services.
A former Stress and Violence Prevention Consultant for the US Postal Service, the Doc is the author of Practice Safe Stress and of The Four Faces of Anger. The Stress Doc blog appears in such platforms as HR.com, WorkforceWeek.com, and MentalHelpNet. His award-winning, USA Today Online "HotSite" – www.stressdoc.com – was called a "workplace resource" by National Public Radio (NPR). For more info on the Doc's "Practice Safe Stress" programs or to receive his free e-newsletter, email
or call 301-875-2567.
Mark Gorkin, MSW, LICSW
The Stress Doc ™
Google blog:
Mark Gorkin, the Stress Doc ™, www.stressdoc.com, acclaimed Keynote and Kickoff Speaker, Webinar Presenter, Retreat Leader and Motivational Humorist, is the author of Practice Safe Stress and The Four Faces of Anger. A former Stress & Violence Prevention consultant for the US Postal Service, "The Doc" is a Team Building and Organizational Development Consultant as well as a Critical Incident/Grief Intervention Expert for Business Health Services, a National Wellness/EAP/OD Company. Mark leads highly interactive, innovative and inspiring programs for corporations and government agencies, including the US Military, on stress and brain resiliency/burnout prevention through humor, change and conflict management, generational communication, and 3 "R" -- Responsible, Resilient & Risk-Taking -- leadership-partnership team building.
for his popular free newsletter & info on speaking programs and phone coaching sessions.
Stress Doc Mantra: "Think out of the box, perform outside the curve (the Bell Curve) and be out-rage-ous!"
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ROCK HILL — An assault suspect smashed the windows of a camper and then threatened to rape and kill the children of deputies during an investigation in Rock Hill, according to a York County Sheriff's Office report.
Four deputies responded to an assault on Sandlewood Drive just before 2 a.m. Tuesday. They found Allen Hubbard, 49, of Rock Hill intoxicated, covered in blood and yelling obscenities, the report states.
Witnesses say Hubbard assaulted his brother, father and cousin before hitting vehicles in the driveway. He smashed the windows of a camper and damaged the mirror and window of a Chevy Silverado.
Hubbard told all four deputies at the scene he was going to kill them and their family, even their nieces and nephews. Hubbard also threatened to go to their children's school to rape and kill them, the report states.
Police took Hubbard to Piedmont Medical Center because he had cuts on his hand. At Piedmont, he continued his threats and yelled racial and homophobic slurs, according to the report.
Hubbard was arrested and charged with two counts of assault and battery, four counts of threatening the life of a public official, damage to property and public disorderly conduct.
He is booked at the York County Detention Center on a $52,825 bond.


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Our state's senators are at it again, and we urge our readers to join us – once more – in fighting their efforts.
The legislators are considering SB 961, which would drastically restrict access to coroners' records and directly contradict the Right To Know Law.
We agree with the Pennsylvania Newspaper Association that passage of this bill would be a step backward when it comes to transparency and openness.
Actually, it is the same bill that passed the House and Senate last session (then-titled HB 2477).
Fortunately, it was vetoed by then-Gov. Ed Rendell.
The bill, opponents argue, would eliminate access to all autopsy-related records and would delay access to even name, cause and manner of death of a decedent until 30 days after the calendar year in which a death occurs.
Coroners would have no obligation to give a full report on the cause of a suspicious death to the families of the deceased, to the news media or to the public.
That's not right.
The Pennsylvania Coroner's Association has pushed hard for this legislation for many years, often citing the sensitivity to family members' feelings at the time of a death.
There is no question that all involved in the process of someone's death, including the media, need to be sensitive.
But this issue is more about representing the interests of the public in a timely and impartial way.
While we respect the tough job facing those on coroners' staffs across Pennsylvania, coroners are not grief counselors, and they are not employed by families.
They are employed by the public to represent the interests of the public.
The position has been established as an impartial, medically competent office to determine the cause, time and manner of death.
The public depends on our coroners to find out whether a death is natural, accidental or criminal.
Coroners' rulings are most valuable when delivered promptly, while public attention is high and support for necessary changes in policy, law or behavior is strong.
Here's how our readers can help: Please contact your state senator and representative in the House, whether by telephone, mail or e-mail. Tell them you are opposed to SB 961.
In 2010, this effort passed both houses by wide margins. We expect this attempt to move along very quickly, so please don't hesitate.
Getting in touch
* Rep. Bryan Barbin, 536-9818; www.pahouse.com/barbin/
* Rep. Frank Burns, 536-8400; www.pahouse.com/burns/
* Rep. Gary Haluska, 674-8939; www.pahouse.com/haluska/
* Rep. Carl Walker Metzgar, 443-4230; www.pahouse.com/metzgar/
* Sen. Richard Kasunic, (724) 626-1611; www.senatorkasunic.com/
* Sen. John Wozniak, 266-2277; www.senatorwozniak.com/
Click here to subscribe to The Tribune-Democrat print edition.
Click here to subscribe to The Tribune-Democrat e-edition.


text:
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Since the tragedy in Newtown much has been written about the fact that the killer, Adam Lanza, had Aspberger's, a form of autism. I know I read that fact with a heavy heart when it came out, and from reading other bloggers and having conversations with "autism moms and dads", I know I'm not the only parent of an autistic child to feel that way.
I feel we've come so far in teaching understanding and acceptance in the years since my oldest son was diagnosed, and it is completely disheartening to think some of that progress has been mitigated by such a heinous act. As I've written before in a prior post on the subject, autism didn't make Adam Lanza a murderer, mental illness did.
The capacity for empathy, or the lack thereof of the perpetrator, has been written about a great deal as well. I don't dispute that this particular emotional skill was probably missing in this individual. What I do dispute is that it's missing in most people with autism. I can't speak for people with autism, and I'm certain most of them wouldn't want me to.
I think that it's dangerous to assume those with the disorder can't feel for others just because it seems their reactions to situations are often different than ours, including facial expressions, or an inability to speak. As I've said, I won't speak for people with autism.
But I can speak on behalf of the two I'm raising.
I am a constant and fierce advocate for my children, and as such I'm always talking about them, sharing stories and anecdotes at times with strangers. I try to convey the commonalities they have with "typical" children, because I find that when people can relate to something, they are often more receptive to it. On occasion I run into people who know I write about them but haven't met them, and I admit it's gratifying to sometimes see their preconceptions about autism shattered in front of my eyes.
Ironically this happens the most with Justin. Usually within a minute of meeting him he'll make the "eeee" sound, or exhibit some type of stereotopy that paints him as "different", and I'll see a knowing nod from my new acquaintance. What generally stuns them is my son's affectionate and generous soul, as he frequently engages with me in some sort of physical embrace, even when we're out and about in the community.
This is usually followed by a considerable amount of gazing into my eyes, which often seems to engender a great deal of surprise in our new friend. Both affectionate and generous with eye contact- two preconceptions about autism dismissed in a matter of moments.
I don't want to leave out my younger son, because empathy abounds within him as well. A perfect example of this is his reactions to "Moviepalooza", the McCaffertys answer to cold weather and illness coupled with not a lot of things to do outside of the house. The last day of our holiday vacation I spent curled up on the couch with my youngest child, sharing the experience of ET with him for the very first time. He was sucked into the film from the first scene (I know this because he barely asked me for snacks during the movie), held rapt by the storyline, occasionally peppering me with questions and concerns.
When we got to the grand denouement where ET finally goes home, he literally had to sit on my lap, so overcome with sadness was he that an alien and a little boy had to part. Genuine tears ensued, with promises by me that ET would come back to visit (I had to say something), promises that seemed to placate him. He asked me twice later that evening if ET could really come back, and I assured him that since it would happen in his imagination, he could envision whatever he wanted. He smiled, and said he was going to write the script for ET Two.
Empathy and creativity at work in a child with autism. Imagine.
People sometimes ask me why I write, and in part it's because of this. Yes, my kids are different from the "norm" in many ways, but we're all "different" from each other, just to varying degrees. We can retain our uniqueness and still find those commonalities that bind us together, that common ground that makes us all an integral part of society at large, and an important part of our smaller communities in general.
We are all more alike than we think. But regardless, we need to demonstrate not just respect for our differences, but celebrate and learn from them too. Every day I learn something new from my children, am constantly amazed at how they teach me and those around them.
They often leave me in awe. And if you knew them, I'm confident you'd feel that way too.


text:
In today's Discount Diva column, MoneySmart reader Bronwen Battaglia shared an idea for saving time and money when it comes to feeding her three hungry sons.
Instead of buying pre-packaged mixes, such as Bisquick and Swiss Miss, Battaglia takes time to measure out batches of her own scratch recipes and stores them in labeled containers. When it's time for pancakes or hot cocoa, she merely takes the dry mixes off the shelf and adds the wet ingredients as she would with any store-bought box mix.
Not only does this bit of advanced planning save money and add convenience, it allows Battaglia to control the amount of sugar and preservatives her kids eat, and lets her incorporate more healthful whole-wheat flour.
Here are two of the recipes she has perfected for her family:
Hot Cocoa:
4 cups nonfat dry milk
1 cup granulated sugar
¾ cup cocoa powder
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp cinnamon
Blend ingredients in a food processor until it resembles a fine powder. Store in air-tight container.
To prepare: Stir three tablespoons of mix with six ounces of hot water.
2 cups whole wheat flour (or a combination of part wheat, part oatmeal flour)
4 cups unbleached white all-purpose flour
½ cup sugar
¼ cup baking powder
1 tablespoons salt
To prepare a big batch (approximately 20 pancakes): In a medium bowl, combine: 2 ½ cups mix, 2 cups milk (or more), 2 eggs, 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable, canola, or mild olive). Gently stir ingredients together. Do not over mix. Let batter stand for at least 5 minutes. It will thicken up. Add more milk if necessary. Ladle 1/2 cup or so of batter on to hot griddle. Flip once bubbles are visible and edges appear dry.
Substitute buttermilk or sour milk* for milk and add 1 tsp Baking Soda to mix.
Mash a banana in bowl before adding other ingredients.
Add a dash of cinnamon or diced pear and grated fresh ginger.
While first side is cooking, drop a few fresh or frozen blueberries on to the pancake.
Add a few tablespoons of ground flax seed to the batter.
---Samantha Maziarz Christmann
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Américas - The Woodlands
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Américas - The Woodlands
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Reviews ›
21 Waterway Avenue
Ste. 130
The Woodlands, TX 77380
The Woodlands
Getting there ›
Latin American
$30 and under
More Details ›
Américas - The Woodlands Details
Dining Style:
Casual Elegant
(281) 367-1492
Hours of Operation:
Monday - Friday: 11:00am - 4:00pm
Saturday: 12:00pm - 4pm
Monday - Tuesday: 4:00pm - 9:00pm
Wednesday - Thursday: 4:00pm - 10:00pm
Friday: 4:00pm - 11:00pm
Saturday: 5:00pm - 11:00pm
Sunday: 3:00pm - 9:00pm
Sunday 10:30am - 3pm
Bar 1492
Sunday - Tuesday 11:00 am - 9 pm
Wednesday - Thursday: 11:00am - 10:00pm
Friday: 11:00am - 2:00am
Saturday: 5:00pm - 2:00am
Payment Options:
AMEX, Carte Blanche, Diners Club, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Latin American, Seafood, Steakhouse
Executive Chef:
Michael Cordúa
Dress Code:
Business Casual
Accepts Walk-Ins:
Additional Details:
Banquet/Private Rooms, Bar Dining, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Counter Seating, Entertainment, Full Bar, Happy Hour, Late Night, Non-Smoking Restaurant, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Smoking Area, Smoking Area (patio only), Takeout, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine
With six award-winning restaurants, Américas, Artista, Churrascos, and Amazón Grill to choose from, The Cordúa Group has taken the best of their portfolio and added other unique flavors. The result: a contemporary flavor unique to MjC Events that can be enjoyed outside of their restaurants. Whether you are planning an intimate gathering or a gala of splendor, the finest events always start with MjC Events. Event Managers are ready to help you plan your next event! Please contact them at MjC Events 713.961.0911.
Private Party Facilities:
Américas Woodlands offers four private spaces that are ideal for your next family celebration, company dinner, social hour, or holiday party. For menu options and availability call us at 281-367-1492 or go online to www.cordua.com.
Private Party Contact:
Janine Jones (281) 367-1492
Getting there
Cross Street:
Lake Robbins/Timberloch
Parking Details:
There is a parking garage near the restaurant on Waterway Avenue as well as valet located in front of the restaurant. Américas will validate parking garage tickets for all patrons.
A word from Américas - The Woodlands
Recognized for its exciting dining and bold architecture, designed by renowned architect Ilan Waisbrod of Studio Gaia, Américas promises to continue the illustrious tradition of the original. Thrilling dishes combine vibrant Latin ingredients with European culinary techniques in an unparalleled
setting alongside the Woodlands Waterway.
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Américas - The Woodlands -
Best Restaurants in The Woodlands
Diner Reviews
Great dinner and drinks
celebrating MK's birthday. Parents in town had never been to Americas, got them out of their comfort zone, and they loved it. Complimentary Tres Leches was a nice finish for the birthday girl."
Dined on 7/26/2014
Excellent! Waiter Jason took great
care of us on our first time and remembered us after so we'll keep coming back to him. Manager was invested in making our dining experience top notch and came by the tables to check on everything. Food is a nice change from steakhouses, mojitos are the best that I've found in the Woodlands, possibly this side of Miami. Definitely recommend for an upscale latin dish."
Dined on 7/25/2014
Made reservations for our
Anniversary at 8:00 on Friday, requesting a quiet table by a window. We were seated at 8:20 in a long line of tables for 2, with tables on either side approx one foot apart, in the loudest area in center of room! Waited 20 more minutes, 8:40, for a window table in a quiet area. Another couple was seated by a window when both arrived at 8:00. Not one mention the entire evening about our anniversary. Every other fine dining restaurant always acknowledges it and thank you for choosing their restaurant for the occasion. Not so here. Food was good, not great, Service was very good. Will not return or recommend Americas. There are too many restaurants in The Woodlands that are much better, and certainly more organized."
Dined on 7/25/2014
The restaurant was empty upstairs
but about 1/3 full downstairs on a Monday night. Our waitress was very attentive, nice & honest about the food. They were very good about keeping my water glass full. The appetizer was the mixed ceviche which was not traditional ceviche at all. It was a small amount of whole shrimp, thick pieces of tilapia & chopped avocado on top of a half of a pineapple. It was okay but not what I'm used to. It lacked flavor. I had the skate which was very thin with a sweet sauce. It didn't taste fishy at all and came apart like pulled pork which was awesome. Not crazy about the plethora of onions it came with. A waste for sure. The crab meat was placed on top. No flavor. Spouse had the steak which was tender & flavorful."
Dined on 7/21/2014
The quality of the food is on par
with the other America's locations, but the atmosphere is lacking a bit. The restauarant is decorated very plainly (by comparison to other America's locations) and loaded with tables, but it's nice and dark so makes for a good date spot. The best seats are along the windows, which show a wide view of the Waterway. The bar upstairs was completely empty on a Saturday night, which is not surprising to me if they are the same bartenders responsible for my mango habanero margarita. It tasted like it was made with whiskey, not tequila. The Tres Leches never disappoints. Valet costs $12."
Dined on 7/12/2014
Americas used to be my favorite
restauants. Not anymore. I asked for an experienced server,and got a rookie. The food was ok...nothing special. My friends ordered the same dish and the did not receive the lobster tail that was supposed to be served with the dish until thirty minutes later!! The checks were wrong,and frankly, I won't be going back."
Dined on 7/11/2014
We have been regular customers at
Churrascos every time we visit Houston, it is one of our favorite restaurants. Many years ago we visited Americas at the old Galleria location and had a great experience. So we were excited to visit Americas at The Woodlands, which is a bit closer to Dallas, where we live now. The ambiance and the service were excellent. However the food quality was disappointing. The appetizers (salmon ceviche and empanadas) were excellent, but our sons ordered the churrasco and it was tough, not what we are used to. We also had the seafood paella, which was tasty, but the rice was overcooked and dry. Tres Leches was good. We expected better quality. Not sure if it was an off night or what, but not the same."
Dined on 7/5/2014
We have been going to that
americas for years to celebrate special events but everytime we go it seems to get worse. This last time our server when asked what were the specials said they didnt have any but everytime we go thats the first thing they tell when they come to the table. Every menu item I asked her she didnt seem to know about and had to "ask". The dips were as good as they normally are and food consistency is a major problem at this restaurant. You can go and have a great sangria this week and next week its totally not the same. They brought out two of the plates to share one had cheese on it and one didnt. Probably have to find another "goto" in the woodlands"
Dined on 6/29/2014
Found this hidden treasure online
and decided to visit for a late lunch. Food was beautifully prepared with Exceptional seasonings. Chef visited our table. They were really marketing their Brunch. We will come back and try it out."
Dined on 6/27/2014
Staff very courteous. Excellent
quality. Delicious Corazon."
Dined on 6/25/2014
This was our 1 year Anniversary of
being married and I was skeptical of a restaurant I've never been to but was recommended by a friend at work. Amèricas gave an all around 5 star rating to my wife and I, we received the best treatment from the staff and everyone seemed like they liked their job. The Fireworks were such a treat for our occasion. We will definitely be coming back to Amèricas!! Thank you Carlos for waiting on us, you were very kind sir!"
Dined on 6/21/2014
I really enjoy the experience.
This my new favorite resurant by far. Have been to plenty restaurants but this is 2014 best place. Anthony and my waitress Bridgette were awesome. Sincerly, Jay veazie"
Dined on 6/20/2014
I was really excited to try this
restaurant. I thought the food was delicious. However, I didn't think the service measured up. Our reservation was at 6:30pm which I would say is the very beginning of the dinner crowd. Our server was mediocre. All he did was try and upsell to the most expensive item on the menu instead of recommending anything else. Also we asked for sugar with our iced tea and we had to ask two more times which is unacceptable because we were his only table. I would probably try this restaurant again since I enjoyed their food and ambiance and just pray for a more attentive server."
Dined on 6/20/2014
Receptionist was so unfriendly.
Our waitress was fine but there's something missing to add life to the occasion since it was our first time to dine there. We will not come back."
Dined on 6/15/2014
Almost empty restaurant, service
was non-existent. Wine list is great but inventory of wine isn't. Having ordered particular wine which we like, first they brought the wrong wine. Long while later, almost at end of meal, they advised that they were out and if we didn't want another. Cancelling wine, manager stated that because of inconvenience, dessert would be on house. Bill came with both the non-existent wine and "free" dessert on bill. Sent bill back to remove these items. Bill came back still charging for "free" desserts. Gave up, paid excessive bill and left. Definitely not Churrasco's. Drinks were late, bar service unbelievably slow for empty restaurant, waitress slow. What more can I say? Will not be going back."
Dined on 6/15/2014
2nd time at Americas - The
Woodlands. Am not impressed. I have dined at all of the Cordua restaurants including the original Americas and have always been happy with service and ambiance. Holiday party we held at The Woodlands ran out of the wine we selected and misspelled our host's name on event menu even after I confirmed several times. On Father's Day, the large room had no A/C. They continued to seat people making it more crowded. Food was excellent and up to their reputation but will not be going to this location again."
Dined on 6/15/2014
Just wanted you to know the salmon
dish with sauce was out of this world. Our waiter was wonderful"
Dined on 6/15/2014
Even though we had our reservation
they kept us waiting for more than half an hour. The service was poor and they weren't able to manage all the crowd. There was not enough food and what it was left was cold. It took sometime before they can refill the food trays. The place is too dark specially during the day and it doesn't have enough ventilation. We found it very expensive for what we've got. It was not a good experience for us. First and last! Not recommendable at all."
Dined on 6/15/2014
We had reservations for Father's
Day and walked in 5 minutes prior to our reservation time to find the upstairs bar area packed with people waiting for tables. We were seated 40 minutes after our reservation time, but that was only the start of the problems. Many of the food items on the buffet were empty and not replaced promptly, our service was nearly non-existent (had to go get our own silverware from an empty table), the room that we were seated in was a sauna, and the salmon on the buffet was raw (but not supposed to be). I complained to the manager, who said that they have undergone a change of management and were experiencing "growing pains." I suggest you wait and read reviews to see if the pain continues."
Dined on 6/15/2014
The brunch was very appealing,
there was something for everyone's taste. Our waiter was on top of things, and made sure we were taken care of. My only complain is that the room was a bit on the warm side."
Dined on 6/15/2014
Wonderful Father's Day brunch!
Highly recommend! Good variety of traditional breakfast items and South American too."
Dined on 6/15/2014
No longer upscale but you still
pay the price. Food menu has changed and not for the better. Service was so slow and only 1 bartender. Food was received that was NOT how menu described"
Dined on 6/14/2014
Yes, very enjoyable. Had been to
Churrascos in Sugar Land and not great impressed, but this was much better."
Dined on 6/14/2014
I have enjoyed ever time I've
dined here. Great place to take out of town clients."
Dined on 6/13/2014
My favorite place in the Woodlands
for brunch. Everything tastes very fresh and is properly prepared. The service is excellent."
Dined on 6/8/2014
The selections available for
brunch were varied and very well prepared. The endless choices make it difficult for deciding where to begin, or where to end! Definitely worth the visit!"
Dined on 6/8/2014
We were lucky enough to have Luis
as our server. He was attentive, but not overly so, and charming in a shy kind of way. He recommended some dishes to us and they were excellent. The ambiance here is inviting and comfortable. It is very obvious that they care about their guests."
Dined on 6/7/2014
Xcelent, the food is great, the
service is even better, desserts are yummy, try tres leches !!"
Dined on 6/6/2014
I ordered the pan seared red
snapper. The fish was not red snapper and wasn't seasoned as specified. It was likely tilapia."
Dined on 5/30/2014
The title about says it all! Small
room next water wall is very romantic, quiet. Chairs not comfortable, odd arms to sit with, but quickly you focus on the food. The Paellas are amazing and plentiful. We ordered 2 and shared ,the four of us , with too much really. Cerviche and empanadas as appetizers, topped of with the best tres leche in the woodlands! "
Dined on 5/24/2014
My sister and I were here for
dinner. We got a table. When I first walked in they found our reservation. The girl who was introduced as hostess only escorted me to the stairs. She said that's all she does, which is kind off odd. She seemed less than enthusiastic. My sister saw the angel wings we decided to try them. she has a gluten allergy. the menu described a spicy mango habenero flavor. what we got was some breaded and battered deep fried mutilated chicken wings with no flavor. I couldn't taste those supposed mango or habaneros anywhere. next she had soup, it came covered in cheese and in a bread bowl. again no warning of how it was supposed to be served. My sister liked to have the rest of her meal to go. Which did not happen."
Dined on 5/23/2014
The staff at Americas was
completely unprepared for anyone to come and dine. It was happy hour. There was no bartender indoors upstairs. We were told the happy hour was going to be outside on the patio. Fine by us (party of 6). The service was very slow and the drinks and appetizers took a long time to come out. They forgot one appetizer but told us it was very good! Made us settle the check before we went inside for our reservation then they charged us someone else's check but didn't correct it and told it was less than our check. The service got worse. Spoke to management to get things moving. The waiter shot us a dirty look for complaining. The dinner entrées served were good. Comped us our drinks. We just made to the concert on time."
Dined on 5/23/2014
Spanish theme food and variety
were excellent. My daughter loves the crepe maker with berries and nutella. We also loved the tres leches. "
Dined on 5/18/2014
2nd time here for brunch, both
have been great. Really nice to sit outside on the waterway, great food selection at the buffet too."
Dined on 5/18/2014
We dined for Sunday Brunch at
Americas and as always the food was great. We had made reservations and when we arrived downstairs to be seated, it took a long time for someone to come up to seat us. The waiter told us that he would have to seat us in the room to the side as a large party had come in recently. No problem with us, even though we did not have a water view. However, the staff practically ignored us the entire time we were there. The service was terrible. We have never experienced this before at Americas. Hopefully, this is not going to be the norm in the future. "
Dined on 5/18/2014
Normally a great place, but the
Iron man event kind of took the spark out of the normal romantic setting Not fault of restaurant, but runners and Iron man competitors sweating and walking through late at night, not my favorite for the kind of money you spend. Other than that, the food and service was great"
Dined on 5/17/2014
We first tried Americas 2 years
ago and had a wonderful dinner. So when we were planning to return to the area, we made reservations there again. We were late to the restaurant due to traffic and the restaurant was able to still have a table ready for us. I had the churrasco. The steak was great and I love the chimichurri sauce. By the way, I could eat multiple baskets of the plantain chips. My wife had the pollo emcamisado. The chicken was very tender and juicy. The beluga lentils were tasty. The Delirio de Chocolate was awesome! The caramel sauce was a winner. We bought one of the cookbooks so we can try to make our favorites at home."
Dined on 5/16/2014
Didn't realize when we made the
reservation for an evening Mother's Day dinner that it was a fixed price buffet. There was a variety of food but a long, busy day had clearly taken it's toll. The buffet was picked-over and not receiving the attention needed. Signs to identify various dishes were missing or had been moved. Some dishes were empty, others lukewarm. Attendants were re-filling here and there but there didn't appear to be anyone in charge of the overall condition of the buffet. Our server was very good but there's no way any level of service could make the buffet, as it was during our dinner, worth the $49 price (closer to $70 per when all was said and done.) We may return but not on any day when they have buffet only."
Dined on 5/11/2014
We chose America's for Mother's
Day because we have enjoyed all our meals there in the past. For Mother's day this year, they were advertising buffet on both Saturday and Sunday for Mother's Day. As I was not interested in having buffet, I made reservations for 5:30, AFTER the stated buffet ending time of 3 o'clock. When we arrived at America's, however, we were informed that there was only buffet available-that they had extended the buffet hours. I almost gathered up our party of six and left and I wish now that I had. America's food is NOT suited to a buffet. Nor is the waitstaff! We occasionally had water in our glasses, finished plates stayed on our table for multiple courses. NOT worth $50 a plate by a long shot. I may not return. "
Dined on 5/11/2014
The food here is okay but don't be
shocked when see the bill I was I went for Mother's Day brunch it was more than any I paid for in the past the Moms were happy but won't go back for that day."
Dined on 5/11/2014
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Researching Effective Ways to Repair a Damaged Heart
Aurora Health Care Research
Learn more about our ground breaking clinical research programs.
Your gift throught the Aurora Health Care Foundation allows us to extend our reach. Please consider a secure online donation today.
Regenerative Medicine Using Stem Cells for Cardiovascular Disease
Approximately one million heart attacks occur in the United States each year and six million patients experience heart failure. There are limited repair mechanisms available for the effects of heart attacks and other damaging events. Without repair, heart tissue is replaced by scar tissue, resulting in an increased risk of death due to heart failure or arrhythmia. There is no effective therapy to replace dead or damaged heart tissue except with a heart transplant. However, a lack of heart donors makes transplant an inefficient therapy. Therefore, there is a need for a new, effective method to repair a damaged heart.
Regenerative medicine takes advantage of the body's ability to generate new tissue and fully restore the health of tissues damaged by disease. Multiple cell-based platforms have been developed, harnessing the regenerative potential of stem cells and other cells for heart repair. More than 1,000 patients on clinical trials received stem cell therapy for cardiovascular disease worldwide. There has been a favorable safety profile, a reduction in scarring in some studies and a modest improvement in heart function.
Regenerative Medicine Center at Aurora St. Luke's Medical Center
The Regenerative Medicine Center at Aurora includes a nationally recognized medical team including specialists in cardiac arrhythmia and heart failure, cardiac surgery, cardiovascular research, echocardiography (echo), interventional cardiology (catheterization), nuclear imaging, radiology, vascular medicine and vascular surgery. They are advancing health care by investing in basic and translational research and developing innovative stem cell and reparative therapies to improve patient outcomes. They are collaborating with national experts in regenerative cardiovascular medicine, inviting them to Aurora St. Luke's Medical Center to present their latest research findings. They also recently initiated two clinical research trials at Aurora St. Luke's Medical Center that offer regenerative medicine options for patients with cardiovascular disease, called the RENEW and PreSERVE-AMI trials.
RENEW Trial
The RENEW Trial at Aurora St. Luke's Medical Center is sponsored by Baxter International Inc. in Deerfield, Illinois. This trial is for patients who experience an average of 7 chest pain episodes a week despite maximal tolerated doses of medication and surgical interventions. The patient's own stem cells are harvested from his or her peripheral blood by expert hematologists/oncologists. These stem cells are handled by the Regenerative Medicine Center and prepared by Baxter International Inc. so that the cardiovascular specialists can inject either the patient's stem cells or a placebo into the muscle of the affected area of the heart. It is possible that the injected stem cells will develop into new blood vessels in the area of the blocked or damaged cardiac vessels to improve cardiac circulation and function. The research team seeks to improve functional capacity of the heart so the patient can perform daily tasks without incurring pain.
The research team includes cardiac specialists Steven C. Port, MD, and Tanvir Bajwa, MD, hematologists/oncologists and specialists from the Regenerative Medicine Center and Patient-Centered Research. There are 50 study locations in the United States and Canada; Aurora St. Luke's Medical Center is one of only two sites in Wisconsin participating in the trial. The study began in the fall of 2012. Patients are followed for two years.
PreSERVE-AMI Study
The PreSERVE-AMI trial at Aurora St. Luke's Medical Center is sponsored by Amorcyte LLC, a NeoStem Inc. company in Allendale, New Jersey. This trial is for patients who wish to prevent further damage to their heart following a specific type of heart attack called a ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) where one of the heart's major arteries has been blocked. The STEMI patients have moderate to severe heart damage but have not yet experienced scarring. This short window of time between when a heart attack occurs and when the scarring begins provides an opportunity for patients potentially to benefit from adult stem cell therapy to preserve function in the area of the heart around the site of the attack.
In this study, the patient's own stem cells are harvested from his/her bone marrow by Aurora's expert hematologists/oncologists. The stem cells are handled by the Regenerative Medicine Center and prepared by Progenitor Cell Therapy, LLC so that the cardiovascular specialists can infuse the patient's stem cells (or a placebo) into the artery supplying blood to the damaged area of the heart. The research team is testing whether these procedures can prevent future major cardiac events by preventing further damage to the heart in the days, weeks and months following a heart attack.
The research team includes cardiac specialists Tanvir Bajwa, MD, and Suhail Allaqaband, MD, Anjan Gupta, MD, along with hematologists/oncologists and specialists from the Regenerative Medicine Center and Patient-Centered Research. Screening for the study began September 3, 2012 and is performed at Aurora St. Luke's Medical Center. There are at least 60 planned study locations in the U.S.; Aurora St. Luke's Medical Center is currently the only site in Wisconsin participating in the trial.
Cardiovascular Aging Research Team
Despite advanced age being recognized as the most important predictor of disability and death, the cellular mechanisms that increase the risk of heart disease in the elderly are not well understood. The Center for Integrative Research on Cardiovascular Aging (CIRCA) is working to understand the cellular mechanisms that lead to cardiovascular disease in the elderly and develop interventions to reduce such susceptibilities. This multidisciplinary team of researchers is headed by Arshad Jahangir, MD, Professor of Medicine and Chair of the Cardiovascular Research Committee, is conducting research in the Regenerative Medicine Center labs at Aurora St. Luke's Medical Center and will soon expand into labs in the Milwaukee Heart Institute at Aurora Sinai Medical Center. "Because of its commitment to providing state-of-the-art therapy to our patients, Aurora Health Care is able to offer stem cell therapy in attempts to improve myocardial performance and exercise capacity in patients with refractory angina and chronic myocardial ischemia, and to prevent future major adverse cardiac events via clinical research trials," Dr. Jahangir said.
The RENEW and PreSERVE-AMI stem cell studies are among the exciting innovative patient-centered research initiatives occurring at Aurora Health Care. Aurora plans to participate in additional regenerative medicine studies in the future.


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By Denis House
Sports Editor
LAUREL COUNTY, Ky. —
Wow, what a stunner of a weekend in college football. Several of the top teams fell and when the dust settled, Alabama was No. 1 in the first BCS standings, which comes as no surprise.
What did come as a surprise is Florida State being ranked No. 2. The Seminoles leap frogged Oregon after thrashing Clemson, 51-14, Saturday night. Well, so much for my prediction last week of an Alabama-Clemson national title game. The Tigers always seem to choke in the big game.
I have to admit that the Seminoles were impressive in their dismantling of the Tigers. Are they for real? They sure looked that way to me Saturday night. By the way, last week I misspelled Dabo Swinney's name in this column. Sorry about that coach.
The surprises started Friday night when then-No. 8 Louisville lost to the University of Central Florida, 38-35, thus ending any Heisman hopes of quarterback Teddy Bridgewater. That loss dropped the Cardinals all the way down to No. 20 in the BCS poll.
UCLA, LSU, South Carolina, Texas A & M and Georgia were also upset victims on Saturday. While the Bruins lost to another ranked team, Stanford, LSU, South Carolina and Georgia all lost to unranked SEC opponents in Ole Miss, Tennessee and Vanderbilt. Auburn's win jumped them from No. 24 to No. 11 in the BCS.
Missouri and Baylor, both undefeated, jumped into the BCS Top 10 at 5 and 7 respectively. Oregon is No. 3 and Ohio State, No. 4. Stanford (6), Clemson (9) and Texas Tech (10) round out the Top 10.
If this past weekend is any indication of the remainder of the season, then we are in for a wild ride.


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My name is Cindi and I am a mom to an Autistic child named David who lands on the more
severe end of the spectrum. We are currently trying to raise money to help him pay for his
Autism service dog who will be able to help make his life a lot safer and relatively calmer.
In the process, I am also doing everything I can to raise better Autism Awareness and
education for everyone our mission gives me the chance to come in contact with. My prayer and
hope is that the more people know and understand, the more likely they will be to choose
the paths of compassion and acceptance.
Will you please join my son, David, and me on this mission? Your valuable support is greatly
appreciated. Thanks! :)
Song used with permission courtesy of Scott James.
Check out his facebook site :)