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Having recently celebrated the victory at the battlefield of Mansfield, Louisiana we... Read more of this story
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Saturday and Sunday, May 7-8, 2016, was the First Experience of Front Royal, Virginia, during the Civil War. It took place from 10 a.m.
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Every new reenactor faces a hefty investment, at least $2,000, to Read more
On September 22, 1863, the peace of the valley guarding the Read more
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We regret to inform you that due to exceedingly wet turf conditions and the pending weather forecast, it is necessary to postpone this weekend's
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Todd ("T. Scott") Campbell, Suffolk, VA. passed away at home in Read more
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Recruits Wanted!!! 114th Pennsylvania Collis' Zouaves is seeking new recruits to fill out their ranks. They are from the North Central Ohio area. If
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The 25th Missouri Voluntary Infantry is recruiting. The 25th was in Read more
The 21st Georgia Volunteer Infantry is a re-enacting group made up Read more
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Here, pronounced clearly and calmly by a monk from the Hermitage of the Holy Cross, are the basic daily prayers said by all Orthodox Christians of the Russian Tradition.
We hope that this recording will help those who, through a multitude of worldly cares and responsibilities, are sometimes tempted to skip their daily prayers.
Text taken from the Jordanville Prayerbook of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia.

subset: commoncrawl


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If we consider the group of upper triangular matrices $B=\bigl(\begin{smallmatrix} a&b\\ 0&a^{-1} \end{smallmatrix} \bigr)$ where $a$ and $b$ are either real or complex and $a\neq1$, then the left Haar measure is given by $a^{-2}\,da \,db$.
While I understand that this measure is invariant with respect to left translation, I am a little confused as to why the factor of $a^{-2}$ is necessary. Any clarifications would be appreciated, Thank you!


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Emily Kleine, executive director of Leadership Amarillo & Canyon, will be the featured speaker at the Amarillo Women's Network's noon meeting today at the Amarillo Club Sunburst Room.
The focus will be servant-leadership principles based on the R.K. Greenleaf approach.
Kleine joined Leadership Amarillo & Canyon in 2001. She has been district director for the Muscular Dystrophy Association and development coordinator for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Texas Panhandle Inc.
For reservations, call Maurine Seal at 351-2857 or Janice McGowan at 373-3336. Lunch for members is $10; guests, $12.
For details, visit amarillowomensnetwork.org.
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Pages 1-2
The History and Topographical Survey of the County of Kent: Volume 4. Originally published by W Bristow, Canterbury, 1798.
This free content was digitised by double rekeying. All rights reserved.
In this section
EASTWARD from the hundred of Shamel lies the hundred of Hoo, bounded on the opposite side by the water, called the North Yenlade, which separates this hundred from the isle of Grean. Hollinshed, the chronicler, says, that in his time Hoo was nearly an island, and that there was then a common proverb of this hundred, viz.
"He that rides into the hundred of Hoo,
Besides pilfering seamen, will find dirt enow."
A very true saying of it at this time. Formerly it used to be noted for the wealth of the yeomen who inhabited it, but there are now few but bailiffs and lookers who live in it, the farmers and occupiers of the lands dwelling at Rochester and Stroud, and elsewhere; nor is there a gentleman's house, or a clergyman residing, in it, owing to the depth of the soil, the dirtiness of the roads, and the unwholsome air from the neighbouring marshes. It takes its name from its high situation, Hou, in Saxon, signifying an hill. The hundred of Hoo contains the parishes of
And the churches of those parishes:
It also contains part of the parishes of COBHAM and WEST PECKHAM, the churches of which are in another hundred.


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Top Definition
When somebody invites you to their place for the purpose of you paying for the cab, and not sex. You'll think you're going for sex, but there will be no sex at your destination. None.
I thought I was going to get lucky, but I just got cab raped.
โดย Nomad9 31 สิงหาคม 2011
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Killeen: Killeen ISD Students Receive Free Coats
Posted: 12/18/2015 - The American Legion Post 223 delivered free coats to Westward Elementary Students Thursday.
Posted: 12/18/2015 - The American Legion Post 223 delivered free coats to Westward Elementary Students Thursday.
Posted: 11/12/2015 - Thousands lined the streets Wednesday to honor Vietnam veterans at the Killeen Veterans Day Parade.
Updated: 02/11/2016 - The Vive Les Arts Theatre in Killeen is set to perform the Mel Brooks' musical 'Young Frankenstein' which opens on Friday.
Posted: 08/24/2015 - On the Friday, Killeen ISD and community leaders cut a ribbon on the Garland D. Sheridan Transportation Facility on West Trimmier Road in a burgeoning south Killeen neighborhood.
Updated: 02/11/2016 - The city of Killeen is reminding its residents that grass too tall is against the ordinance.
Updated: 06/16/2015 - Killeen Police are looking for a pair of thieves who stole from a local Goodwill store.
Updated: 06/16/2015 - Police in Killeen were investigating an overnight Monday shooting that left one man with a gunshot wound.
Updated: 04/08/2015 - Killeen police have identified a man who defrauded an elderly local woman out of more than $2,000 for bogus electric meter repairs.
Updated: 06/16/2015 - An elderly Central Texas man who was the focus of an overnight search was found Saturday afternoon.
Updated: 03/02/2015 - A Central Texas man who has a family history of heart disease completed his first-ever marathon on Sunday during the third annual Army Marathon in Killeen.
Updated: 02/24/2015 - KIlleen welcomed a member of the family of Frank P. Killeen', for whom the city is named.
Updated: 06/16/2015 - A Central Texas man suspected of shooting a local woman to death killed himself early Monday in the parking lot of a fast food restaurant in Del Rio, police said.
Updated: 03/10/2015 - In-N-Out Burger is opening up in Killeen today.
Updated: 02/02/2014 - GGA Productions hosted the first gun show of the year in Killeen.
Updated: 06/16/2015 - A local hospital will offer free breast cancer screenings to women in five area counties who don't have medical insurance.
Updated: 04/22/2013 - Bell County's first marathon since the 1970s and the Army Marathon's inaugural race wrapped up Sunday afternoon with no reported major incidents.
Updated: 04/09/2013 - A woman tells police she caught a man staring at her while she worked and masturbating in a city library.
Posted: 03/20/2013 - People with warrants and misdemeanors on Fort Hood are being given the opportunity to clear those up without being arrested.
Updated: 01/30/2013 - Recycling centers and state officials are keeping a close eye on those selling scrap metal, especially copper.
Posted: 10/09/2012 - A Women's Issues Conference will get underway Friday on the CTC campus.
Updated: 09/24/2012 - The fire that heavily damaged a local middle school was the work of an arsonist and investigators are trying to find a man who was seen climbing a fence behind the building at the time of the blaze.
Updated: 09/24/2012 - More than 200 students were displaced by a fire Saturday at a local middle school and officials are working to place students in time for class on Monday.
Updated: 02/11/2016 - A Killeen home suffered minor damage from a fire Sunday.
Updated: 09/12/2012 - A local stabbing victim refused to cooperate with police in their investigation.
Posted: 08/31/2012 - Killeen police say they caught two burglars virtually red-handed when officers found stolen goods in the bed of a truck.


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DARPA toys with on-demand disposable satellites
DARPA are said to be looking into the possibility of using cheap, disposable satellites to provide reconnaissance and data to soldiers. The satellites would be deployable with the "press of a button". The idea is to provide backup when existing satellites would not be in position, or would take too long to re-align. Still, DARPA's idea of "cheap" might differ from everyone else's.


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Myths about obesity lead to poor policy decisions, inaccurate public health recommendations and wasted resources, according to an analysis by an international team of researchers.
David Allison, PhD, associate dean for science in the School of Public Health at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and fellow researchers analyzed articles published in the scientific and popular press to separate myths from evidence-supported facts. The authors defined myths as beliefs about obesity, many of which are fervently held despite evidence to the contrary.
"False and scientifically unsupported beliefs about obesity are pervasive," Allison said in a news release. "As health professionals, we should hold ourselves to high standards so that public health statements are based on rigorous science. In instances where the science doesnt exist, we should conduct rigorous studies to find the answers."
The seven myths, published in the Jan. 31 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine, are:
• Myth 1: Small, sustained changes in number of calories taken in or burned will accumulate to produce large weight changes over the long term.
Fact: Small changes in calorie intake or expenditure do not accumulate indefinitely. Changes in body mass eventually cancel out the change in calorie intake or burning.
• Myth 2: Setting realistic goals in obesity treatment is important. Otherwise patients become frustrated and lose less weight.
Fact: Some data suggest people do better with more ambitious goals.
• Myth 3: Gradually losing weight is better than quickly losing pounds. Quick weight loss is more likely to be regained.
Fact: People who lose more weight rapidly are more likely to weigh less, even after several years.
• Myth 4: Patients who feel "ready" to lose weight are more likely to make the required lifestyle changes. Healthcare professionals therefore need to measure each patients diet readiness.
Fact: Among those who seek weight-loss treatment, evidence suggests that assessing readiness neither predicts weight loss nor helps to make it happen.
• Myth 5: Physical education classes play an important role in reducing and preventing childhood obesity.
Fact: Physical education, as typically provided, does not appear to counter obesity.
• Myth 6: Breast-feeding protects the breast-fed offspring against future obesity.
Fact: Breast-feeding has many benefits for mother and child, but the data do not show that it protects against obesity.
• Myth 7: One episode of sex can burn up to 300 Kcals per person.
Fact: It may be closer to 5% of that on average, and not much more than sitting on the couch.
The authors also defined six "presumptions" — beliefs held to be true even though more studies are needed before conclusions can be drawn. For instance, some advocates have presented as fact the idea that regularly eating versus skipping breakfast contributes to weight loss, but the few studies that have been done have found no effect. The same goes for the idea that eating vegetables in itself brings about weight loss, or that snacking packs on the pounds. According to Allison and colleagues, these hypotheses have not been shown to be true, and some data suggest they may be false.
The researchers also identified research-proven weight-loss facts. For example, weight-loss programs for overweight children that involve parents and take place in the childs home achieve better results than programs that take place solely in schools or other settings. Also, many studies show that while genetic factors play a large role in obesity, "heritability is not destiny." Realistic changes to lifestyle and environment can, on average, bring about as much weight loss as treatment with the most effective weight-loss drugs on the market.
Although difficult for many to sustain over the long term, eating sufficiently fewer calories effectively reduces weight. Exercise is useful, but only when frequent and intense enough to use up more energy than taken in, and one must not compensate for that exercise by increasing food intake or decreasing movement at other times.
Although the scientific community agrees that randomized, controlled trials provide the strongest evidence of a causal relationship, the obesity epidemic has prompted officials to take action before all the facts are in, or when a long-term randomized trial was neither practical nor ethical.
Allison and his colleagues argue that randomized trials are possible even in scenarios where once thought impractical. The 2011 NEJM study of the relationships between neighborhood environment and obesity is an example, and underscores the opportunity for wider use of more rigorous studies to test hypothesized risk factors, treatments or prevention strategies.
The study abstract is available at www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMsa1208051.


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Comments about 'A quick guide to the latest jobs report'
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More part time jobs...thanks Obamacare!
- 4:48 p.m. July 3, 2014
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Doesn't it seems like GDP numbers and the jobs numbers are always revised later though? Seems like the initial numbers get a lot of press coverage and then the later revised numbers are ignored. Why is that?
- 5:06 p.m. July 3, 2014
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These numbers are useless.
A college was a FT law professor who at 63 was laid off three years ago and now that 75% of all faculty jobs are taught by PT adjuncts teaching contract to contract with no security, benefits or research funds, the probability of him finding another FT professorship is zero to none. Part time jobs are not the same as FT jobs regardless of what this report says and replacing a career as a law professor with one as PT adjunct is not job replacement.
Who ever writes these reports needs to break them out by industry, income, education so we can compare apples to oranges or what is the point? Also, does this report include those who cannot find jobs, have given up looking, working PT not FT or making far less than they were before? And lets not mention how they will never make up career-wise for lost time and income.
- 7:21 p.m. July 3, 2014
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Displaced History
Elend, the German word for misery, has its roots in an ancient word that means being without a place, which reminds us that homelessness has always been one of mankind's most painful misfortunes. Some of the world's greatest literature is about how displaced persons—individuals like Odysseus or nations like the Hebrews—heroically search for a home of their own. While homelessness has been a part of human experience from the beginning, its scope and scale have grown in the modern world: according to the United Nations High Commission For Refugees, in 2011 there were 42.5 million people who had been displaced by wars, ethnic conflicts, or natural disasters. Among them a depressingly large number have been refugees for five years or more.
In Orderly and Humane, R. M. Douglas examines "the largest forced population transfer—perhaps the greatest single movement of peoples—in human history," that is, the expulsion of between 12 and 14 million German-speaking civilians from Hungary, Czechoslovakia, Poland, Yugoslavia, and Romania at the end of the Second World War. A few of these people had followed the victorious German armies as they moved east after 1939, but most of them belonged to deeply rooted communities that had lived in Eastern Europe for generations. Between 1945 and 1947, these people were rounded up and, sometimes after several months in detention camps, forcibly relocated in...
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About the Author
James J. Sheehan, professor emeritus of history at Stanford University, is the author of Where Have All the Soldiers Gone? The Transformation of Modern Europe, among other books.


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West Palm Hospital spokeswoman calls allegations in lawsuit 'unsubstantiated'
A spokeswoman for a South Florida hospital said a lawsuit that alleges a former employee there sexually assaulted a patient is false.
"These allegations were thoroughly investigated by two external agencies, and the allegations were unsubstantiated," West Palm Hospital spokeswoman Nicole Baxter-Miller said in a statement released Tuesday.
The lawsuit claims Daniel Furio sexually assaulted a 9-year-old boy who was admitted to the psychiatric department.
"First and foremost our staff, physicians and employees are committed to patient safety and quality of care," Baxter-Miller said. "As a general matter, we run background checks on employees before we hire them and go through a rigorous screening process. If any allegations of this nature are ever made to us, we take all necessary and appropriate actions, including notifying the appropriate authorities."
An attorney for the boy's family said Furio was arrested in 2005 at John Prince Park. According to a Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office report, Furio was masturbating in the woods in front of a deputy.
Baxter-Miller said Furio no longer works at the hospital.
LIST: 9 Florida Hospitals Among Nation's Top 50 In 2012:
Copyright 2013 by WPBF.com All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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Our Favorite Celebrity Parents That Have Starred In Hilarious Japanese CommercialsJoanna Mazewski
When celebrities think we're not looking, they go off to Japan to star in sometimes very hilarious and over-the-top commercials with the hopes that we'll never see them in the Western world. Thank goodness for YouTube.
Celebrity parents such as Ben Stiller, Natalie Portman, and Britney Spears have been traveling to the land of Hello Kitty for years to do spots for everything from coffee to candy to shampoo.
Check out our gallery of videos that star our favorite Hollywood moms and dads in commercials that they wish you'd never see. It'll make you want to pop Lost in Translation in to the DVD player and watch it all over again. Brad Pitt's Root Coffee spot is by far my favorite (I miss his blonde Billy Idol look!).
Side note: how come Mariah Carey and Gwen Stefani have never done commercials in Japan? Um, hello? They just seem like the most obvious commercial candidates.
Ben Stiller 1 of 10It's been awhile since we've seen Ben Still in a funny comedic role. This one is pure gold. What's up with those cheerleaders though?
Natalie Portman 2 of 10Here's Natalie looking very Angelina Jolie-ish for Lux Super Rich shampoo. Love the hair.
Britney Spears 3 of 10How cute is Britney in this video for UHA Mikakuto Gummy Candy? She sings, she dances, and she even speaks Japanese! We miss this Britney!
Beyonce 4 of 10Beyonce doing a water dance for Crystal Water. One thing is certain about this mama: she can dance her way thru any commercial and make it looks good.
Brad Pitt 5 of 10Here's Brad Pitt back in the day when we all still thought he was hot in a very The Office-esque commercial for Roots Coffee. Is it just me, or are you getting a Dwight vibe here too?
Bruce Willis 6 of 10Here's Bruce for for ENEOS petroleum. From what I hear, he's the king of silly Japanese commercials. This one is from 1999.
Miranda Kerr 7 of 10I don't think I've seen a more hilarious commercial. Here's Miranda shilling for Lipton tea. Love the cameo by the ninja. Wow, indeed. She still looks hot, though.
Kevin Costner 8 of 10Roots Coffee starring Kevin Costner, take two (I think I prefer Brad Pitt's spot to this).
Angelina Jolie 9 of 10Angelina Jolie being gorgeous Angelina Jolie for Shiseido Cosmetics. Angie needs to go back to doing commercials like this one - maybe then we'd all stop doing the Angie/Jen Aniston comparisons as she knocks everyone out of the park with her beauty in this one.
Arnold Schwarzenegger 10 of 10This one needs no comment, really. This was the same man who governed the wonderful state of California.
Photos Courtesy YouTube


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First Annual Kids' Yoga Day to Take Place Friday, April 8
Created by bestselling author Teresa Anne Power, Kids' Yoga Day will span 37 U.S. states and 12 countries.
This Friday, April 8th, thousands of schoolchildren around the world will take part in the first annual Kids' Yoga Day by putting down their books and spending 5 minutes doing fun, simple yoga poses. This celebration of fitness, created by bestselling author Teresa Anne Power, will encourage children to let their imaginations run free as they mold themselves into trees, flamingos, windmills, kites and other kid-friendly yoga positions. About 12,000 kids are expected to participate, both in school and at home, including those from at least 37 U.S. states as well as 12 countries around the globe. More than 100 official ambassadors will lead the kids through the poses, all to raise awareness about yoga for children.
An expert on children's yoga and author of The ABCs of Yoga for Kids — a book that sold more than 250,000 copies in four languages - Power says few people understand how powerful yoga can be. More than a great way to become fit, she says parents who practice yoga with their children get a bonus: stronger relationships with them. "When you both do something healthy and fun, you will get closer," she observes, noting that the type of yoga she favors is playful and does not involve any chanting.
Celebrate the first annual Kids' Yoga Day this Friday, April 8th, 2016 at 11 AM, and join the thousands of children and leaders taking part in embracing wellness and fitness! For more information, please visit www.kidsyogaday.com.
Spa News: Universal Companies Acquires SpaEquip, Inc.
The acquisition will bring customers a better experience with expanded offerings, expertise, support, and distribution.
Spa distributor Universal Companies recently announced its acquisition of SpaEquip, a spa development provider known throughout the spa and hospitality industries for its impressive depth of experience and expertise with spa equipment. SpaEquip, founded by Philippe Therene, will add a staff of seasoned experts to the Abingdon, Virginia spa distributor.
"Bringing inventive, affordable spa development and equipment solutions to match customer needs and applying the perfect amount of customization is what SpaEquip does best," says Universal CEO Brenda Elliott. "And in this new era of spas playing an important role in the health and wellness movement, having partners like SpaEquip will be of huge benefit as we continue to develop solutions that help our customers anticipate their patrons' needs and provide wellness focused experiences. Combining the talents of both companies will produce solutions that have a positive impact for the spa industry."
"SpaEquip is a natural fit for Universal Companies, and we are thrilled to join their team of industry-leading experts," says Polly Johnson, SpaEquip VP Corporate Accounts. "This acquisition will bring together two companies with a long history of providing sound solutions and extensive support to spas. SpaEquip's extensive experience in equipment and spa development combined with Universal's widespread product and equipment knowledge will provide customers with a comprehensive resource for all their spa and wellness needs."
What does this mean for customers of Universal Companies and SpaEquip?
For Universal Companies customers, this means the added expertise of a proven and respected spa development and equipment team as well as an expanded offering of equipment and products.
For SpaEquip customers, this means they will have access to the full line of Universal products, supplies, apparel, and specialist/expert services, including retail products and programs through À la Mode, a division of Universal Companies that provides service in all areas of retail management from product selection to retail coaching and consulting; training and education at Universal Companies' Wellness and Beauty Learning Center located in Torrance, California; a call center staffed with industry specialists and licensed professionals; plus skin care, product, and supplies specialists.
SpaEquip customers will also experience improved, more efficient fulfillment with the added advantage of the Universal Companies distribution capabilities and resources.
What does this mean for Universal Companies and SpaEquip vendors?
For industry vendors, this means a streamlined purchasing and fulfillment process plus comprehensive sales and marketing support with an omni-channel reach to over 40,000 customers.
Vendors will also benefit from the SpaEquip team of sales and development specialists and Universal Companies' sales and marketing programs, such as the annual Spa Resource Book, an e-commerce website and digital marketing, participation in key industry events and trade shows, an extended direct sales force (domestic and international), and training and education support through the Wellness and Beauty Learning Center, eLearning, and regional trainers.
SpaEquip will continue to be based in Calistoga, California, operating as a division of Universal Companies. It will head a consolidated equipment division and customers will continue to work with their preferred contacts knowing that they now have expanded resources and support as well.
Miraval Life in Balance Spa Opens at Monarch Beach Resort
The award-winning destination spa expands its brand to California with the opening of this new spa.
Miraval Group is bringing its nationally known spa and wellness brand to Southern California with the opening of the Miraval Life in Balance Spa at Monarch Beach Resort. The Miraval Life in Balance Spa at Monarch Beach Resort offers more than 70 of the signature treatments developed at the company's flagship Miraval Resort & Spa near Tucson, Arizona, each designed to "awaken the senses, create balance and promote a sense of wellbeing."
The facility encompasses 24 treatment rooms, spa suites, boutique, Drybar, Deborah Lippmann Nail Salon and relaxation and tranquility zones. It is part of a $40 million renovation of the resort's 400 rooms and public spaces that will introduce five new dining concepts and an expanded pool and pool bar. Miraval-inspired healthy menu items are available at Monarch Beach Resort's restaurants, including the new Miraval Spa Café.
The April opening kicks off a Miraval expansion program that includes development of full-service Miraval resorts that offer immersive wellness experiences in key destination markets and Miraval Life in Balance Spas that offer many of the brand's signature wellness programs, according to Steven A. Rudnitsky, Miraval Group president & chief executive officer. "The Miraval Life in Balance Spa at Monarch Beach Resort offers the most popular of Miraval Tucson's signature treatments and programs," he said. "I expect that a visit to Monarch Beach will inspire many guests to visit Tucson for the complete Miraval experience."
Moreover, Rudnitsky said Monarch Beach and future Miraval spas draw on local surroundings to create unique experiences for guests. The new Miraval Life in Balance Spa offers Miraval Tucson's NÂGA and Shamana-Karma treatments; Ayurvedic, energy and body renewal rituals; and new treatments that incorporate coastal-inspired ingredients, including sea salt, crystal salt stones, algae and marine muds.
Selected Miraval Tucson signature wellness programs are offered, including Mindful Stress Mastery, Mindful Eating and Mindfulness at Miraval. Custom yoga and body movement studios in the spa's new Body Mindfulness Center feature the brand's Cardio Drumming, Mindful Spinning, Aerial Yoga and Floating Mediation programs. New coastal-inspired programs include Beachside Meditation, Zen Boot Camp on the Beach, Sunset Yoga and Authentic Connections. Each takes advantage of the resort's oceanfront location.
Specialists from Miraval Tucson, including Wellness Counselor Anne Parker, Exercise Physiologist Andrew Wolf and Healers Pam Lancaster and Dr. Tim Frank, will make regular visits to the new spa to offer an even greater number of signature Miraval programs. Spa memberships are offered to local residents.
Monarch Beach Resort will be operated by Starwood as a St. Regis through May 31, 2016, at which point it will rebranded as Monarch Beach Resort and operated independently by KSL Resorts.
For more information about Miraval Life in Balance Spa at Monarch Beach Resort, please visit www.MiravalSpaMonarchBeach.com.
Spa News: Cecilia Hercik Appointed Director of Spa at Miraval Resort & Spa
Hercik will lead the resort's Life in Balance Spa.
Cecilia Hercik has been appointed director of spa at Miraval Resort & Spa, the the award-winning destination spa in Tucson, Arizona. In her new role, Hercik will lead the property's Life in Balance Spa, as well as help craft new and innovative treatments and services for spa guests.
Hercik comes to Miraval with over 20 years of experience in the spa industry, having worked with several luxury hospitality brands and spa consulting firms. Prior to joining Miraval, Hercik served as owner and spa business development specialist at C-SPA Consulting, a consulting and spa management firm specializing in providing and executing assessment and design development for spa businesses.
Previously, Hercik was the regional director of spa operations for WTS International in the Hawaiian region. Throughout her career, Hercik has worked for a variety of luxury hospitality brands in the spa and wellness sector including The Grand Wailea Resort Hotel & Spa, The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans and The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island.
"We are thrilled to have Cecilia Hercik at the helm of Miraval's renowned Life in Balance Spa," said Laura McIver, vice president and general manager of Miraval. "She has such an incredible passion for wellness and a wealth of spa experience that we're confident will help expand our celebrated spa programming with new and ground-breaking treatments for our guests."
NCBTMB Names Guptha Interim CEO, Baltz Interim Chair
The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and
Bodywork (NCBTMB) is introducing new leadership with Dr. Leena Guptha as he interim Chief Executive Officer and Bruce Baltz as the Board Chair while the organization engages Signature Group to develop a long-term strategic and business plan.
Dr. Guptha succeeds Steve Kirin, who recently announced his decision
not to renew his contract. Kirin will remain with NCBTMB until May 20. The NCBTMB Board of Directors unanimously approved both leadership moves in a conference call on Tuesday, March 29. This included accepting Dr.Guptha's resignation from the Board of Directors effective immediately.
Dr. Guptha, born and raised in London and a resident of Lehigh Valley, Pa., previously served as the NCBTMB Board Chair and has a background in primary care, academic appointments and administrative roles, including more than two decades in three education corporations as well as 25 years of holistic practice. The former National President of the American Massage Therapy Association was a 2015 inductee into the World Massage Festival Hall of Fame.
She graduated as Valedictorian of her MBA class and is certified in
Non-Profit Revenue Generation and Program Evaluation for Non-Profits. She served as President managing a $14-million school and while responsible for operational management and finance, she earned the Functional Manager of the Year Award and a VIP Employee Excellence Award in Education.
"We continue to focus on defining and advancing standards for the
profession and have a vision to further the NCBTMB through developing
specialty certificates, advancing our Approved Provider program, and
collaborating with key stakeholders," Dr. Guptha said. "At this time,
continuity and communication are essential in order to pave the way
toward the next evolution of NCBTMB, enabling us to recapture and
optimize our rightful place within the profession. Signature Group will be able to guide us in our upcoming Strategic Planning process, providing a wealth of experience in assessment, revenue generation, growth and sustainability."
Baltz, from New York City now living in Loxahatchee, Fla., is a Board
Certified Massage Therapist in New York and Florida and received his
massage diploma from the Swedish Institute in New York in 1993. He is an internationally recognized educator with more than 30 years of experience in the fitness and bodywork industry, including time as an NCBTMB volunteer since 2007. Baltz works out of the Lost Tree Club in North Palm Beach, Fla., where he is developing an Active Isolated Stretching program and is a founding member of Deep Freeze Team LLC, offering a new generation of cool therapy pain relief products.
"We're all looking forward to the repositioning and focus for the
new NCBTMB," Baltz said. "We have been working hard on collaborating
with all of the stakeholders and doing what is best for the industry
moving forward. One of our greatest roles will be the management of
approved providers and vetting of classes and workshops while developing new opportunities to better serve the massage profession and NCBTMB."
The NCBTMB is an independent, private, nonprofit organization founded
in 1992 with the mission to define and advance the highest standards in the massage therapy and bodywork profession. In support of this mission, NCBTMB serves the profession through Board Certification, Approved Providers and Assigned Schools for more than 350,000 massage therapists nationally. The NCBTMB is transitioning from licensure since states took over that capacity within the last decade to a focus on Board Certification, which recognizes the progress massage therapists are making in their craft.
The engagement of the Signature Group is driven by the NCBTMB Board of Directors in looking toward developing a plan for the next decade.
Signature Group has been involved in the health and wellness area with the Club Spa and Fitness Association (CSFA) to provide management, marketing and sponsorship development services for the non-profit organization. Signature Group also was instrumental in developing a Strategic Plan and Sponsorship Engagement Program for the Asian Golf Industry Federation in 2013-14.
In Memoriam: Charlene Florian
Charlene Florian, Chief Creative Officer of Kerstin Florian International, passed away on Easter Sunday.
Chief Creative Officer of Kerstin Florian International, Charlene Florian, passed away on March 27, 2016. In a statement from the team, Kerstin Florian International commented, "It is with immense sadness that we inform you that Charlene Florian, Chief Creative Officer, Kerstin Florian International passed away this weekend (Easter Sunday) peacefully surrounded by her family and close friends. She was a shining light within the industry leading the path for a healthy, more natural lifestyle touching everyone she encountered with positivity, kindness and joy. A charismatic executive with the Kerstin Florian team, a source of inspiration and knowledge to our partners globally, Charlene was a force of positive energy who embodied the Kerstin Florian brand.
"Charlene was an inspirational and vibrant global thought leader who worked passionately alongside her mom Kerstin to build and grow the Kerstin Florian brand and share their philosophy and passion for wellness and health with the spa industry and beyond. She truly loved her industry and the close knit, extended Kerstin Florian family she was fortunate to work with for over 2 decades.
"Charlene was first and foremost a proud mother and daughter as well as a lover of life, nature, travel adventures, a true friend, an avid student and teacher and firm believer in the power of love and following her heart and intuition.
"We will forever miss her - her light and legacy lives on in her children and the beautiful products she created with love."
Also an Ambassador of Wellness, Charlene was a part of Global Wellness Day from its inception. Global Wellness Day organizers have partnered with TEMA (Turkish Foundation For Combating Soil Erosion, for Reforestation and the Protection of Natural Habitats) to honor her by funding and planting 2000 trees in Turkey to help green the lands with an ongoing and living "Charlene Florian Forest."
Lydia Sarfati Invites Spa Pros to Join the Repêchage 18th International Conference
Held on May 2, with a Hands-On Workshop on May 3, the conference will feature new product launches, demonstrations, speakers and more.
Repêchage founder, Lydia Sarfati, invites spa and salon professionals to the Repêchage 18th International Conference and Hands-On Worskhop on May 2 & 3, 2016. The salon and spa professionals event will feature key speakers, professional education, new product launches, demonstrations, and more!
Presentations include: "Sensory Fusion: The Future of Skin Care" by Lydia Sarfati, Repêchage CEO and Founder; "Skin Care from 8 to 80: 8 Ways to Stay Ageless" by Samuel Shatkin Jr., FACS, M.D.; "Mind and Body Integration: The Brain and Skin Care Connection" by Andrea Bovero, Ph. D.; and "The Whole Picture: The Newest Trends in Spa Treatments" by Yolanda (Mayola) Amador Origel, International Spa Director and Distributor of Repêchage Mexico.
18th International Conference
- Date: Monday, May 2, 2016
- Price: $175; includes new product launches, presentations, demonstrations, President's Awards, gift bags, lunch and champagne
Fusion Express Bar and Spa Mask Hands-On Workshop
- Date: Tuesday, May 3, 2016
- Location: The Lydia Sarfati Post-Graduate Skincare Academy; Secaucus, NJ
- Price: $125; includes hands-on instructions and demonstrations, plus a Fusion Express Bar and Spa Masks kit that contains 12 facials (a $150 value!).
Register for both days and save!
- Combination price: $275; includes both International Conference with champagne and lunch, and the Hands-On Workshop events with a Fusion Express Bar and Spa Masks kit.
For more details or to register, please call 1 (800) 248-7546, or visit http://www.repechage.com/products/18th-international-conference-hands-on-workshop?variant=14709573127.
Spafinder Launches The Wellness App
The app, available for iOS and Android, gives users the ability to find, book and pay for wellness services, plus earn rewards, from their phones.
Spafinder Wellness, Inc. recently announced the launch of its mobile application, "The Wellness App," for iOS and Android. The app brings together the fragmented landscape of wellness providers and, for the first time, gives users the ability to find, book and pay, plus earn rewards, all from their mobile phones. The Wellness App is available in Apple's App Store and on Google Play; to download, visit www.spafinder.com/thewellnessapp.
Spafinder Wellness has over 25,000 wellness businesses in its network, including yoga and Pilates studios, fitness clubs, spas, salons and wellness travel destinations. Behind the scenes, the Spafinder Wellness platform allows for payment processing to these locations with the app, even though they have uncommon point-of-sale or booking systems. Mobile and Internet connectivity makes this unique app functionality available to consumers and businesses. The app is especially attractive to employers who have workplace wellness programs or incentive/rewards companies that promote healthy lifestyles.
Consumers who receive Spafinder Wellness 365™ Cards as gifts, incentives or rewards will be able to download them to the app and use them to purchase from providers in the Spafinder Wellness Network. The Wellness App is also fully integrated with the company's rewards program, My365Rewards, awarding users points for a variety of in-app and on-site behaviors. The new app features well-known wellness providers, including brands such as Bliss, Equinox, Mandarin Oriental, Canyon Ranch, Elemis, Curves and Zeel, the Massage On Demand company.
"We believe finding ways to feel good and stay healthy should be easy and rewarded. With The Wellness App, Spafinder Wellness gives users a simple way to keep wellness funds handy and find, book and pay for services they choose," says Pete Ellis, chairman and CEO of Spafinder Wellness. "For existing Spafinder Wellness users, the experience begins with a seamless transition of their rewards points and account information after they log in to the app; for new users, it's about an easy connection to their next great wellness experience."
The Wellness App, developed by Spafinder Wellness' technology team, with support from Miami-based technology agency YellowPepper, breaks new ground in introducing a first-of-its-kind payment platform and the most advanced universal mobile payments technology for the wellness industry. The result is a single solution that gives consumers a seamless experience across providers.
The Wellness App allows users to:
- Discover a Global Network of Wellness Providers: Choose a provider based on location, services, pricing or reviews; try a new location or connect directly with a trusted provider.
- Real-Time Bookings: Make an appointment or reserve a class at select partners (live in May).
- Pay for Services: Consumers can pay for services with the app, using a secure account with the in-app card and barcode scanner. They can also reload funds with a linked credit card.
- Earn Points & Rewards: All in-app behaviors are linked to the Spafinder My365Rewards Program, meaning that users earn points for everything from loading their Mobile Wellness Cards, booking classes and treatments, paying for services to even writing reviews. Points can be used toward services at partner locations.
- Get Location-Based, Real-Time Promotions & Special Offers: With local searches, users also get notification of nearby deals. When they achieve Silver and Gold Rewards levels, they have the opportunity to receive exclusive offers and invitations to special events.
- View Detailed Provider Descriptions and Service Offerings: Get a snapshot view of an individual location with descriptions and reviews.
- Rate & Review: App users can rate locations and leave feedback based on their experience (live in April).
"The app bridges the many gaps that have made wellness offerings diffuse and inconsistent, and brings together all types of providers, from large, established businesses to single-location establishments, to offer consumers a unified, seamless experience under one umbrella," said Ellis.
To learn more about or to download The Wellness App, visit www.spafinder.com/thewellnessapp.
Comphy Launches New Product Lines
The launch includes new towel lines, knit blankets, and a retail baby line.
Luxury spa linen brand Comphy recently announced the launch of additional lines to enhance spa operations and increase retail sales. The launch comprises new organic, cotton and bamboo towels, knit blankets for professional spa use, and a baby line - Comphy Baby, ideal for retail in spas and boutiques.
"It is a big year for Comphy with all of our new product releases, and we couldn't be more excited to be able to offer our clients a full range of products that will meet all of their linen needs," said Mia Richardson, founder and CEO of Comphy Co. "Whether it's sheets, towels or beautiful knits for guest areas, our new lines offer the same famous Comphy softness we are known for and come in a wide selection of sizes, colors, designs and fabrics."
The new towel line offers spa professionals another way to pamper guests, and includes an array of luxurious towels designed specifically for spa use. The line includes Comphy's Bamboo, Essential, Simply Organic, Serenity, Opulent, Salon, Makeup and Fitness towels. Meanwhile, the company's new knits include the Bubble Cable Throw and Damask Blankets, while the Comphy Baby line includes a fitted sheet and quilted baby blanket - in a variety of sets and colors - proven to contribute to a better night's sleep.
For more information, please visit http://www.comphy.com.
Spa News: Aromatherapy Associates Announces New CEO
Tracey Woodward has been appointed as CEO of the spa and beauty brand.
Aromatherapy Associates recently announced the appointment of Tracey Woodward as Chief Executive Officer. Tracey will assume the CEO position of the award-winning global spa and beauty brand, Aromatherapy Associates, and the male grooming brand, The Refinery, on April 7th, 2016.
Tracey Woodward brings a wealth of spa, retail and beauty experience to Aromatherapy Associates having worked in the industry for over 30 years. Tracey's previous successes have included building the Aveda brand in the UK, Commercial Director at Urban Retreat Spa at Harrods and Harvey Nichols, General Manager for Modern Organic Products, Brand Management at Donna Karan Beauty and, most recently at Marks & Spencer where she helped redesign and develop the beauty department. Tracey has also been a retained consultant to B&B Investment Partners since June 2014.
Tracey Woodward commented, "Aromatherapy Associates is an iconic British brand and our intention is to build on the legacy of brand founder Geraldine Howard. We aim to stay true to the authenticity and heritage of both Aromatherapy Associates and The Refinery, and further develop our offering of exceptional services and products."
Chris Britton at B&B Investment Partners, the investors in Aromatherapy Associates, commented, "Tracey's successful background in spa, retail and product development, as well as her leadership and unrivaled experience in the beauty industry means Aromatherapy Associates and The Refinery will remain true to their origins and missions, while building an exciting future."