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Alliant Energy Center 1919 Energy Center Way, Madison, Wisconsin 53713
Carolyn Fath
press release: Canoecopia is the largest paddlesports consumer event in the world. More than 250,000 square feet of kayaks, canoes, stand up paddleboards, outdoor equipment and clothing, all at the best prices of the season, make Canoecopia a "must go" place for gear! Over 140 seminars and clinics make Canoecopia an educational event where you can learn about the perfect gear for your style of paddling, develop skills to get you where you want to go, and discover some of the many places to paddle, both near and far.
If you're interested in experiencing life on the water, Canoecopia is the best place to spend the weekend! Canoecopia is presented by Rutabaga Paddlesports
Show Hours: Friday 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM; Saturday 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Sunday 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Ticket Prices: $15.00 for a day pass; $25.00 for a weekend pass. Ages 17 and under: free.
Parking: $7.00 per car per day; Weekend pass: $19.50


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Prompt #14: Poem in Your Pocket
Today's poetry prompt brought to you by Shanna Germain.
Today is National Poem in your Pocket day! To celebrate today, readers are encouraged to find a poem they love and carry it in their pocket to share with friends, family and loved ones.
For your prompt, imagine that the poem you love has spent all day riding around in your pocket, being folded and unfolded, creased and straightened, shown off to people who got it and people who didn't… Now, write your poem from the poem's point of view. What did it see? What did it hate or love or fear? What did it feel like in your pocket, in your hands, when you accidentally dropped it on the street?
Alternatively, write a poem about pockets. You might try reading "Pockets," by Howard Nemerov for inspiration.
Reminders for Participants: You can post your poem below in the comments, offer a link back to your site where the poem is posted, or comment about the experience of writing the poem (without actually posting the poem). If you're going to comment on other participant's poems, please remember that this is not a critique space — comments should be kept thoughtful and supportive. Lastly, remember you don't have to use the prompt to write your poem — they're here for your inspiration but they're certainly not a requirement.
Let the Wild Poeming Being!

subset: commoncrawl


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Google Wallet is Google's payment processing system. There's an online version and an Android app that runs on certain phones with specific hardware and lets you use your smartphone like a credit card.
In the past we've described Google Wallet as "the coolest app that you can't have" because it's been limited to a very few phones on only a couple carriers.
What have been the problems?
First of all, your phone has to have an NFC chip and a "secure element". Today, not many phones have the necessary hardware, and ironically, some phones have the hardware built-in, but it's sitting dormant.
Android phones that we know have NFC include the Nexus S and Nexus S 4G, Galaxy Nexus, and Galaxy S II Skyrocket (though it's reportedly dormant in this phone).
The Good News
Google recently got in bed with carriers to allow the app to be used on their networks. Previously Sprint was the only carrier that allowed the app to be installed. Now AT&T and T-Mobile allow the app, and phones on the Verizon network can side-load the app without jumping through any special hoops. You can probably download Google Wallet from the Play Store now!
To encourage adoption, Google will even give you a free US$10 when you add a Google pre-paid credit card to Google Wallet!
How does it work? Very, very well! Pocketnow's Michael Fisher recently took Google Wallet for a test-drive on his Verizon Galaxy Nexus. His conclusion: Google Wallet is Easy and Awesome. If you haven't checked out his video, it's well worth your time!
The Bad News
Other than the hardware limitations, there are geographical restrictions as well. Currently Google Wallet works in the USA, but you probably can't get it outside the States.
The start was somewhat rocky and some "questionable security" issues were raised. Google disabled signups for their pre-paid credit card while they fixed problems, then offered users another $5 free for the inconvenience.
Many power-users, eager to try out Google Wallet on their "unsupported" devices, used various methods to "hack" the app onto their phone. (I was one of them.)
Power users are the kinds of people who root their phones, install custom ROMs, and do all kinds of stuff that "normal" people don't. We're also more likely to get "developer" phones, or "pure Google" phones — like the Galaxy Nexus and the Nexus S before it. We're also the early adopters that try out new stuff first — like using your phone as a credit card.
Google Wallet stores your credit card information in the phone's "secure element". When you set up Google Wallet, the app essentially "pairs" with the secure element and gets some type of authentication key which it uses to access to the data in the "secure element". If you don't go through the right process when uninstalling the app, or before flashing a new ROM, your app won't have that key, and your secure element will stop responding. It happened to me, but I couldn't get any support because my GSM Galaxy Nexus was on T-Mobile, which wasn't supported until just recently.
With a newly "supported" phone, I decided to call Google Wallet support and see what they could do for me, and try and get to the root cause of the "secure element not responding" error.
I spoke with a very helpful woman. She was informative, professional, and was able to field my questions very well. I volunteered that I was using a CyanogenMod Nightly and was immediately told that it wasn't supported — no custom ROMs are… neither are rooted phones… or phones that have been rooted or unlocked and reverted to stock. Period.
I brought up my concerns that a good deal of the people who have these phones got them so they could root and run custom ROMs, and that the same people are early adopters who would help with the acceptance of Google Wallet among the "general populous". I continued that it would be wise to come up with some sort of resolution to wipe the contents of the secure element, or wipe it for future use (or when the phone is later given or sold to another person). Nothing.
I asked how many call they get on this issue: a few every day. I asked how many calls, in her opinion, she thought it would take before Google would take action to resolve the issue. She avoided the question.
I pressed, saying I'd like to be able to convey how wide-spread this issue was in my upcoming article (the one you're reading now). I was shocked at her response:
"Have a good day. And if you use my name (in your article), I'll come after you." (click)
What? Had a Google employee honestly just threatened me if I mentioned he first name in an article? Yes, she had.
I called back and got the same representative, but asked to speak with her supervisor. I brought him up to speed on the issue, and said I wasn't calling to complain about that, rather to find out if it was Google policy for their employees to threaten callers. He assured me it was not and apologized for the actions of his subordinate.
Later I got the following emails:
Email #1:
Hi Joe,
Thanks for getting in touch. We strongly discourage gaining system-level "root" access to your phone if you plan to use Google Wallet. We are unable to support devices with unauthorized operating systems as the security layers of the device may be limited.
If you have other questions, please reply to this email and I'll be happy to help.
(name withheld, so she won't "come after" me)
The Google Wallet Team
Email #2:
Hi Joe,
Thank you for calling Google Wallet. You called us regarding whether a device with a customized ROM image is available for use with Google Wallet. I apologize for your inconvenience, but due to security risks, we can't recommend using the application with a device in this state.
It appears that your phone has experienced a rare hardware error with the Secure Element that makes it incompatible with the Google Wallet mobile app. We are currently working with our hardware partner to address this particular error and we apologize for the inconvenience this has caused you. If you wish to continue using Google Wallet, we recommend contacting your phone carrier or the retailer from whom you purchased your phone to learn more about your options to remedy the issue with your device's Secure Element.
For more information about the Secure Element and security with the Google Wallet mobile app, please visit our help center at http://support.google.com/wallet/bin/answer.py?hl=en&topic=1350361&ctx=topic&answer=1350362
Thank you for your patience with this issue. We appreciate your help as we work to improve Google Wallet.
It was a pleasure assisting you today. Feel free to contact us again if you have any additional questions regarding Google Wallet or visit our Help Center at http://www.google.com/support/wallet
The Google Wallet Team
The Really Bad News
If you get the dreaded "Secure Element not responding" error, for the time being, your only recourse is to replace your phone. The app isn't bound to one secure element, but the secure element is apparently tied to one specific installation of the app. Once that's severed, so is the ability to use Google Wallet with that phone.
What's more, you can't use your Google pre-paid credit card unless it's through the app. So any money on the card is no longer accessible until you can get a new phone and install Google Wallet on it.
So although the app is super easy and very awesome, if you've rooted your phone, or are running a custom ROM, you may want to think twice about Google Wallet — or assume the risks associated with it.


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Every one of us struggles at some point with our image, shape, wrinkles, cellulite, etc. Put another way, every one has moments when we lack confidence.
That's what Shannon and Corey cover in this episode.
And below is the photo Shannon mentions in the show.
(Click the photo for full size.)
Got a question?
Email us at email@example.com.


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Crisis(es) (crisisses?) (crises?) Averted
Jun 13, 2011
7 comments:
- Rachel GainesMon Jun 13, 06:29:00 PM
You're just too silly. Don't buy the dress.. you'll be mad when a cuter one comes out next year... and what if your future guy doesn't like that style? :)ReplyDelete
And those cards, you're funny.
Wedding information was a bit random, but thanks I needed that! ;)ReplyDelete
@Joanna: You know it's wedding season, right? (Oh, wait, of COURSE you do!) I'm in a wedding in September and the bestie just got engaged, so I've been tasked to look at wedding gowns. Not deranged bridezilla wannabe but rather devoted friend/bridesmaid (for the SEVENTH time).ReplyDelete
You're hilarious. I personally see no problem with buying that dress, ya know, just in case. ;)ReplyDelete
O-M-G...and I have never meant that more empaticaly than at this very moment! I was thinking about the little "Xs" just the other day...even considered writing a blog about it! Having worked at Banana and learning that those little "x"s are, in fact, meant to be snipped, I've developed a very keen eye for spotting them. When I see some sad soul sporting one (wow, I just pulled off five "s" words!), I always want to gently tap them on their shoulder and share the news. I have yet to say something, mainly out of sheer terror...hey, you never know what's going on with a person these days.ReplyDelete
Anyway, I applaud your wonderful cards, and more specifically, your mission to help the fashion ignorant. Bless you! :-)
Yay!!! So happy you found a place! Can't wait to hear more about it. And, double yay for losing 14 pounds since February! I feel like a great summer awaits you! xoxoReplyDelete
I hope the move-in went well!ReplyDelete


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Picture: Donald Trump 'The Late Show with David Letterman' at the Ed Sullivan Theater - Arrivals New York City, USA - 02.03.11
Donald Trump has revealed he warned Brooke Mueller's parents not to let their daughter marry Charlie Sheen.
The actor exchanged vows with his third wife in 2008 and they became parents to twin boys in 2009, but a bust-up between the pair later that year (09) resulted in an assault conviction and jail time for the star, and the couple subsequently split.
Trump has now revealed he knows Mueller's parents, as they are members of his Florida country club, and he warned them about the troubled actor.
He tells TV host David Letterman, "I really got to know (Sheen) fairly well... (Brooke Mueller's parents), they were all excited (about the wedding). And I said, you know, I told the parents, 'I think he's a wonderful guy, I really like him a lot but you cannot let your daughter marry him'. (They said) 'Oh, he's Charlie Sheen, he's wonderful, he's such a wonderful guy... ' I said, 'Listen, you can't do it.' And they got married and it wasn't one of the greater marriages."
There's a zing of postmodern fun to be had while watching a film that documents...
The very fact that the trailers and commercials for "Two Weeks Notice" feature Sandra Bullock...


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Appetizer & First Course
Wild Mushroom Tart with Peppered Bacon
& Gruyere Cheese
Tart Shell, recipe & instructions follow
½ lb. peppered bacon, cut into small dice
1 leek, cleaned, halved and sliced
1-1/2 lbs wild mushrooms, shiitakes, chanterelles or a combination, julienned
½ cup grated Gruyere cheese
Custard, recipe follows
Preheat oven to 325°. Make the tart shell.
Place the bacon in a sauté pan, cook bacon until crisp over medium high heat. Remove the bacon from the pan and let sit on paper towel to remove excess fat. Pour out the excess grease, retaining 2 Tbsp in the pan. Add the leeks and cook until they soften, then add mushrooms and sauté until golden brown. Remove from the heat and cool.
Add the cooled ingredients to prepared tart shell and sprinkle with cheese. Pour in custard, filling just below top of tart pan and bake for about 35 minute or until golden brown and filling is set.
Note: Tart can be made 1 day ahead and reheated in a 300° oven for about 30 minutes. Just cover loosely with foil for the first 20 minutes.
Tart Dough
1-9 inch tart pan
2 cups all purpose flour
½ tsp salt
½ lb. butter-cold cut into small pieces
1 egg
In medium bowl combine flour and cut butter into flour until cornmeal texture. Add egg and combine, do not over mix. Roll out dough about ¼ inch thick and place into tart pan. Press to fit in the pan, then trim the excess dough so sides of pan are clean. Refrigerate.
Custard Filling
6 eggs
2 cup half and half
salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in blender. Refrigerate.


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Three years ago on the Friday after Thanksgiving, Conservative Hubby and I were married at Reynolds Landing at Lake Oconee.
This Friday after Thanksgiving, we celebrated in a very special way: With a private, 6-course meal prepared by one of the chefs at the Waterside Restaurant at Cuscowilla, down the lake a ways from where we were married.
My Dad won the meal for four in a golf tournament, and My Parents were kind enough to invite us as a way to celebrate our anniversary.
It was quite an affair, with a special menu prepared exclusively for us and different (delicious! out of my price range!) wines paired with each of the six courses. The chef would come out with each course and explain exactly what we were eating and which wine we were drinking next.
We started off with a crab and tuan martini over cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions with an English cocktail sauce. The pieces of crab were huge and the sauce was delicious. This, of course, was paired with a refreshing Italian proseco.
Next we moved on to what I think was my favorite course: Brown butter sea scallops with creamy white organic grits, gala apples, and crispy bacon. Rich, delicious, to-die-for. Served with a Sean Minor Sauvignon Blanc. (Pardon the photos. I snapped them hastily with my phone before diving in to each course.)
This alone was enough food for a meal, yet we were only just getting started. Next up came petite pork osso buco with creamy Italian polenta (with mascarpone), red wine pan jus, and some veggies, served with La Crema Pinot Noir (an awesome vino). The pork practically melted in our mouths.
After that, we had to take a break for a few minutes. We were seriously full, but still had one main course to go. Each of these courses was large enough to be a meal on its own. I was incredibly glad I wore a dress; otherwise, at this point, I might have had to unbutton my pants, which may have been a rather unladylike thing to do for such an occasion.
Next up: carved smoked tenderloin of beef with potato dauphinoise, mushroom demi glace, baby carrots, and asparagus, served with a Trincharo Cabernet Sauvignon. Most of us couldn't finish all of this course, but Conservative Hubby was a trooper and soldiered on through every last bite of the meat and potatoes. (He did leave a few asparagus spears behind though.)
Next came some lighter fare: a tray of Spanish Manchego, aged gouda, English stilton, and assorted fruits and jams, plus fresh honey and honey comb. I figured one tray would be for the whole table, yet we each had our own. We all nibbled on everything as best we could but ended up boxing up most of this deliciousness to take home because we barely made a dent in it.
During this course, we each were served a glass of Sandman's 10-Year Port, and so we retired outside by the lake and pool to sip our port and enjoy the pleasant weather while the men smoked cigars. This interlude was necessary or there would have been no way we could have enjoyed our final course.
Then it was back inside for the grand finale: chocolate flourless tort with a raspberry drizzle. Divine.
The dessert was served with our choice of a chocolate Godiva martini or decaf press pot coffee. I'm sure the coffee was delicious, but we wouldn't know, because of course we all had to have a chocolate martini. It was Godiva, people. What do you expect?
Our nearly 3-hour dining extravaganza was absolutely amazing. We all came home stuffed and satisfied. It was a wonderful evening, and I'd highly recommend the experience to anyone visiting My Parents at the lake. It can be yours for only $100 per person, which is an incredible steal considering how much food and wine we consumed.
I'm still full, actually. Although I did find room for a piece of leftover Thanksgiving pie for breakfast this morning. Why not continue with the gluttony for another day?


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The BEST place for Rohrbaugh Firearms Information on the Web!
" No matter how many times you wash a donkeys head, you still have a donkeys head ". Old Sicilian saying...
$330 with 4 hours to go.I think it is still a very good deal, especially with Eric's generous offer.Hopefully a forum member has this locked up and will give this one new life.
Congratulations PursuitSS, I think you got a great deal. (Obviously with some near future help from Eric.)Soon to have a working R9 for sub $600 with a pair of magazines, box, paperwork and those early grips.Not bad at all, I think you done good.
Your replacement slide is waiting. We'll talk behind the scenes. Enjoy your weekend.Eric R.
Quote from: ECR on July 28, 2018, 08:14:04 PMYour replacement slide is waiting. We'll talk behind the scenes. Enjoy your weekend.Eric R.Thank you so very much sir!IM sent.
That is THE FIRST Slide I have ever seen with a crack on the front by the recoil assembly access area below the barrel hole. Looks like the recoil is usable, however, I'm sending you another one no charge. We would have done that when we were in business. Otherwise, good deal.................Eric R


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Download Flash plugin Download Flash plugin
We invite you to attend our FESTIVAL DU JAZZ in La Petite Pierre ! This yearly festival "Au Grès du Jazz" has become a well-known cultural event in the heart of our region.
Other exciting progammes await you as well, such as treasure hunts (geocaching) and exhibitions.
> Flick through
Musée Lalique
En savoir plus...


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I have taken River Pine Acres and made some changes that I believe will improve this great map. Some things to see are a new storage facility for all of your produced goods, signs to help to distinguish the many factories scattered across the map, fencing for a more realistic farming community, new season mod ready, a little less mud for better maneuverability, and a few less trees to help improve the frame rate and visibility. I hope you enjoy.
River Pine Acres is a fictional area that consist of the following:
20 Fields (Sizes ranging from 1.5ha to 10.2ha)
3 Farms (2 Main Farms, 1 Animal Farm)
Orchards (Apple, Orange, Plum, Pear, Cherry)
Greenhouses (Tomato, Strawberry, Cabbage, Lettuce, Raspberry, Cauliflower)
Forest Areas (2 Main Forest will tons of trees)
16 Sell Points
Standard Crops Plus Rye, Oat, Millet, Spelt, Triticale (All used in Production)
Season Mod Ready with Snow mask
Mud Mod installed and alot of it
Production of Products such as: Washed Potatoes, Meat, Sausage, Sugar, Molasses, Compost, Flavored Vodka, Pallets, Wood-chips, Moonshine, Pig Food, TMR, Birdseed, Seed, Liquid Fertilizer, Flour, Fertilizer, Salad, Cooking Oil, French Fries, Potato Chips, Sacked Potatoes, Fuel, Cake, Bread, Boards, Barrels, Yogurt, Cheese, Butter, Sour-cream, and Wood-boxes
No field missions, no traffic, and no gold coin challenge on this map. Sorry.
Required Mods include:
Kotte Universal Pack (Found at Marhu.net)
Kastor Trailers (Found at Marhu.net)
Stop Milk Sales (Found at Marhu.net)
Priceless Modding -Credits I would like to first start off by stating this is my first map to upload for public release. With that being said, I am not sure exactly who I am suppose to credit. I am the sole author of the map, but of I have imported several models, scripts, and textures from some great maps. Many of these items seem to appear in so many of the maps made today that I am not sure who originally created them. In light of this, I can only credit where I found them and if anyone reading this feels they should be mentioned, then please let me know and I will gladly add you to the list. Giants Lancyboi (Rolling Hills Blank Map) Stevie (Great advice and inspiration to start modding) Stevie (Blank Map and Objects) Dajnet (Tutorial Videos and PV17 Map Objects) Shywizard (Tutorial Videos) OldGuyFarmer (Tutorial Videos) BDSBSSB (Tutorial Videos and Map Objects) Marhu and Kevin98 (Scripts) Heizungsbauer1409 (Great Country Map Objects) RockHound (Serenity Valley II Map Objects) DRModding (Upper Mississippi River Valley Map Objects) Manuscript GT (The Gifts of Caucasus Map Objects) Kastor (Kastor Foods Inc) If I have failed to mention anyone in the credits, I do apologize. I have added many things to this map from so many great maps out there and if you see something you created, please let me know so I can give you the credit you deserve. I didn't create any of the mods in this map and I have nothing but respect for those who did. Thanks to the modding community for all their hard work. Thank you for downloading and I hope you enjoy this map as much as I enjoyed creating it.
DOWNLOAD RiverPineAcresV2.zip – 1.4 GB


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Ramsgate village, with 2 swimming beaches, are home to a wonderful variety of holiday accommodation, restaurants and recreational facilities to suit your holiday needs. Light surf, soft sand and great lifeguard facilities make these two the top South Coast beaches. Enjoy Whales and Dolphin watching, beautiful fauna and flora, whale viewing deck and walking trails along the beaches.
The sunny Kwazulu-Natal South Coast filled with colour and vibrancy, and set against a tropical green backdrop of estuaries, forests and rolling hillsides, is one of South Africa's favourite holiday destinations!
"Ramsgate, this Is the Paradise of the KZN South Coast"…
Ramsgate Beach with Blue Flag status offers a quiet family beach for a pleasant day out. The village developed around the lagoon. Protected by off-shore nets and lifesavers in attendance seven days a week, beachgoers to Ramsgate are also protected when the wind blows from the north. The main beach features a tidal pool known as the Noel Quarry Pool, a tranquil, reedy lagoon, changerooms, on-beach parking and a shady, grassed, sheltered area equipped with braai and picnic facilities. There are pleasure pedal boats and recreational activities on offer in the estuary. Restaurants on the beach and there is a whale-watching deck opposite the beach. Blue Flag, swimming, ablution facilities, life guarded, shark netted, fishing, surfing, snorkelling, tidal pool, lagoon, beach sport, picnic area, kiosk/restaurant, parking. Read more about Ramsgate Beach
Ramsgate Lagoon. Canoe or paddle boat for hire, take the whole family and explore the Bilanhlolo River and Ramsgate Nature. Read more about Ramsgate Lagoon
Ski Boat Bay is a swimming beach located within a small bay in Ramsgate South with Lifeguards and protected by off-shore nets. Ski boat & Jetski launch facilities and a small kiosk open during school holidays. Boat Launch, swimming, ablution facilities, life guarded, shark netted, fishing, surfing, snorkelling, beach sport, kiosk in season, large parking area for vehicles and boats. Read more about Ramsgate Ski-Boat Bay
History of Ramsgate Village:
Paul Buck, described as a painter, violin maker, writer and sailor is acclaimed as being Ramsgate's first settler, but, some 25 years before he arrived in the 1920's a sea captain by the name of Cromton had already discovered the beauty of the area. Crompton, having "swallowed the anchor" as the saying goes, had established a trading store a short distance inland in an area he called Fascadale, after the ship of the same name that had been wrecked southwards of the Imbizane river at Southbroom in 1895. Buck made his home on the southern banks of the Blue Lagoon and although he obviously favoured the lifestyle of a recluse his hospitality afforded any passing traveller made him a legend in these parts.
Click here for a Comprehensive guide to Towns & Villages on the South Coast of Kwazulu-Natal, restaurants, shops, services, beaches, sport, and more...


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Roundtables play a significant role in providing continuous supplemental training for unit leaders. This monthly event provides program topic guidance and structure suggestions for unit leaders.
A fun environment creates excitement around the coming month of activities and program for unit leaders to carry back for implementation in their units.
When is our district Roundtable?
West Park District holds their Roundtable on the second Thursday of each month at Bell Center, HPPC, University Blvd.
We look forward to seeing you there!


text:
Wimberley Office:
Suite 1 - 13620 Ranch Road Wimberley, TX 78676
Austin Office:
1107 Lambie Street
Austin, TX 78702
A well cared for brick home. Located in a neighborhood with large lots & mature trees. There are no sidewalks/curbs giving the feel of country living. This home is immaculate with soft neutral colors, 2" blinds, a large covered patio overlooking the backyard. One dog is allowed if under 35 lbs. No cats. The landlord is open to the lease term: between 6 - 12 months.. RRISD. Limited to 3 vehicles. Close to 183, 45, and Parmar, thus close to major shopping. Contact agent for copy of qualifying criteria.
1st Floor Entry, Single level Floor Plan
Electricity Available, Internet-Cable
Attached, Door Opener, Door-Single, Entry-Front
Crown Molding, Smoke Detector, Walk-In Closet, Window Treatments
Dishwasher, Disposal, Exhaust Fan Vented, Range-Free Standing, Self Cleaning Oven, Water Heater Electric
|Price Reduced from $1,625 to $1,595
|Price Reduced from $1,650 to $1,625
|Price Reduced from $1,695 to $1,650
Property Listed by: Judy McCarty, REALTORS
The information being provided is for consumers' personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing.
Based on information from the Austin Board of REALTORS® (alternatively, from ACTRIS) from December 10th, 2019 at 3:46pm CST. Neither the Board nor ACTRIS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy. The Austin Board of REALTORS®, ACTRIS and their affiliates provide the MLS and all content therein "AS IS" and without any warranty, express or implied. Data maintained by the Board or ACTRIS may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.
All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified.


text:
March 15 – 17, 2017 | Taipei, Taiwan
Organized by Higher Education Forum (HEF), International Conference on Sciences, Engineering and Technology Innovations (ICSETI) is an international platform for scholars, researchers and practitioners to discuss interdisciplinary research and practices in the fields of Basic Science, Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Life Science Engineering, ICT, Computer Science and Applications and More.
2017 ICSETI will take place from March 15-17, 2017 in Taipei, Taiwan. Prospective authors are invited to submit original research abstracts or full papers which were not, are not and have not been submitted/published/under consideration in other conferences and journals.


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Gary and I were fortunate to meet with Patricio Falconi at Pakakuna Gardens while he was inspecting the progress of construction. In my opinion, Falconi's work as an Ecuador architect is unparalleled.
He discussed his long friendship with the owners of Pakakuna Gardens, his work style and the factors that molded his choices of architectural design. Patricio Falconi and Claus and Maria Elena Egger have a relationship that spans almost three decades. Click here for the Egger's personal story.
Twenty-eight years ago when Falconi was a young, aspiring architect of twenty six, the Eggers hired him to build their country house on 36 hectares of land. Building their large house was his second architectural project.
"When I first saw the land, it was very hard, compacted earth, so hard it was very difficult to get a shovel into it. There were several places we could have chosen for the location of the house."
"The spot we finally settled upon is perfect."
"I laid the first stone for the house and Maria Elena planted the first plant." This is the front door and entry of the original house.
"I love this style of construction," he told us. "When I was first married, my father gave me an old bodega (storage building). It had wooden floors, brick walls and tejas (terra cotta tile roof). I made it into a small house and it was my studio for twenty-three years.
"A major influence on my life was my father. I traveled all over Ecuador with him and got to know the many styles of architecture in this country. It's a mix of styles--mestizo, Spanish and indigenous.
"My architectural style is very mixed, too. Foreigners loved portales, or porches, and often asked for them. As a result of their influence, my style is international.
"When I first began working as an architect, my clients were mainly foreigners because Ecuadorians didn't like the style of house I wanted to build. The reason for this was a social problem. Ecuador has an imported culture that comes mainly from Spain.
"Ecuadorians destroyed many of the old-style houses, the colonial ones and their own, and built cement houses instead. They still prefer concrete as a building material.
"My practice was good for many years as Ecuadorians began to appreciate the country houses I was building. I mostly worked within my own social class. When other architects began to use my style, it was no longer that exclusive.
"Ecuadorians wanted something distinctive and turned more to modern architecture. My practice began to slow down.
"Now I am building country houses again. The difference is that this time people live in them as primary homes, not just vacation homes.
"I'm more selective now in the projects I choose to build. I take on those projects that I really want to do—Hotel San Luiz in Cayambe, Luna Runtun in Banos.
"I am never quite finished with my projects. I return to them and make refinements, much as an artist does with a piece of art."
Patricio Falconi always thought he'd be a race car driver or a pilot, but friends would remind him that he was always drawing houses in class. When he built his own first home, he met an indigenous maestro.
"He taught me everything I know about construction. He's now 65 years old and he still works with me. He was the maestro on the Egger's first house in Pakakuna Gardens.
"Claus called me five years ago and shared his dream for Pakakuna. Because his land is rural, the local municipality told him he could only build one house on each five hectares.
"Claus was persistent. He went to the municipality every week. He drew up an ordinance with the alcalde (mayor) agreeing to only build a certain style and size of house and to place the houses closer together to preserve most of the green spaces. He also agreed to help the older poor in Checa by building a medical health facility for them."
Says Falconi, "All over Ecuador—in Loja, Cotacachi, Vilcabamba—I've observed the kinds of foreigners who are coming to Ecuador. They are often in their sixties—those who lived through the revolutions in the 1960's—revolutions in music, sex, alcohol, drugs, freedom and lifestyle.
"Now those of that '60's generation are coming to Ecuador to recapture what they gained and then lost in the United States.
"They are looking for that freedom again, that better quality of life. And they are finding it in Ecuador.
"My goal with Pakakuna Gardens is to make something very creative and very natural. Maria Elena wants plants, not concrete. She and Claus intend to live out their lives here.
Foyer of new Egger home
"But they didn't want to repeat the same architectural style we used in the original house. Instead they chose an updated country style that will be much easier to maintain. There's less wood in the new house and it's mainly just decorative, so there's less upkeep to worry about."
The newer style has great expanses of windows, tall ceilings and natural materials. It is luminous with light. As you can see, the new Egger house is the perfect foil for the owners' plants, balanced by the dark solidity of rough-hewn eucalyptus beams.
Patricio Falconi, the outstanding Ecuador architect, and Claus and Maria Elena Egger, a very giving entrepreneurial couple, are embarking upon a new phase in their relationship. This one is unfolding on a grand scale, with new designs, public buildings and a holistic approach to life.
Picture source: www.patriciofalconi.com
Beautifully designed and constructed villas and homes are rising among the palms and orchids, connected by stone pathways and intricate water features. Something entirely new is being born as Pakakuna Gardens changes from a private estate into an international community.
What will not change are the gardens, lots and lots of gardens, with running water and pools caressing the land throughout the development.
And from the evidence, the relationship between Falconi and the Eggers will also endure for many more years to come as they continue to create beauty and sustainability in Ecuador.
For the Pakakuna Gardens listing click here
Return to Pakakuna Gardens, the Hiding Place, from Patricio Falconi


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* Image source: Cho Sung-Bong, Tongil News, March 10, 2010
'In the morning of March 10, there was a civil society organizations' joint press interview to denounce the Ministry of Unification that has disallowed to send the unification rice to North Korea and to urge to resume the rice support for North Korea,' in the front gate of Seoul Government Building Management Service building.'
* Below is the arbitrary translation of parts of the linked article.
Tongil News
Drive for the Establishment of ' Pan-Korean People's Committee for Sending Unification rice to North Korea'
: Will Form the Committee during March and April.. Urge Lee Myung-Bak Government to Converse the Policies against North Korea
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Jung Myung-Jin (mjjung (at) tongilnews.com)
While the current [Lee Myung Bak] government has repeatedly disallowed the 'unification rice' support for North Korea by the peasant organizations and itself has posed the rice support for North Korea, various civil society organizations drive for the 'Pan-people's Movement for Sending the 6.15 Unification Rice' (tentative)' to solve that problem.
It is the initiative to enlarge the movement for sending the unification rice, which has been lead by the peasant organizations, to the movement by all Korean people, therefore to urge the rice support to North Korea and even to aim at the conversion of Lee Myung-Bak government's North Korean policy.
By now, the peasant organizations have claimed that while [former] governments' rice support to North Korea, which has been 400,000 t every year, has been posed under the [Lee] government for three years, about 1,200,000 t rice stock that has been increased for that reason has lead to the heavy fall of rice price, to the degree of threatening the survival rights of the rice farming households. Otherwise, the 100 t 'unification rice' that the peasant organizations have self-cultivated has been loaded nationwide as the government has three times disallowed them to send that rice to North Korea, since last January.
The participants saying through the press interview, "The unification rice that has been abandoned on the cold asphalt roads must go to the bothers and sisters in North Korea," urged the government by saying that," This year specially welcomes the 10th anniversary of 6.15 Joint declaration. The Lee Myung-Bak government must converse all the hostile policies against North Korea.
For More Photos, go to the Korean Peasants League Site.


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- 12 Units
Greenwood Lodge Apartments
Greenwood Lodge Apartments
4121 Greenwood Lane
Shreveport, LA 71109
- Persons with DisabilitiesIn addition to housing, we provide activities, health and medical care, transportation, and individual case management to encourage independence.
- OtherWe periodically provide other types of housing beyond housing for seniors, veterans, families and persons with disabilities.
- Equal Housing Opportunity
- Handicap accessible
- Partnership for Sustainable Communities
Greenwood Lodge Apartments offers a convenient independent lifestyle for persons with physical and developmental disabilities. Spacious floor plans available and charming amenities throughout. Greenwood Lodge property has an added touch of home with a designed garden with fresh vegetables and flowers that the residents take active roles in maintaining. Greenwood Lodge apartments are conveniently located near I-20 and I-220 for easy asses to medical services, markets, theaters, shopping centers and churches. Also this location is most assessable for commuter buses. Greenwood Lodge Apartment welcomes you home to comfortable independent living. We look forward to having you as a resident. Please call and make appointments to view the property. Walk-ins are welcome.
- Stove and refrigerator
- Ceiling fans in the living and bedrooms
- Large Community room
- Laundry room
- Large patio and backyard for gatherings
How to Apply
Each Volunteers of America property has its own leasing office and its own application process.
Please contact each property directly if you or someone you know is interested in applying for an affordable apartment in one of our communities. The property staff can answer your questions regarding apartment availability, rent, income requirements or restrictions and how to obtain an application to apply for housing.


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- Our Story
- Projects
- In the News
- Awards
"Fix Development epitomizes the mission of Local First Milwaukee, with local funding, sourcing and tenants, as well as an emphasis on sustainability."
The Historic Walter Schmidt Tavern is the latest Fix Development project in Milwaukee's emerging Lindsay Heights. Read More >
Whether helping a nonprofit organization create a plan for future growth, launching a community initiative or creating a living building, we believe in sustainability as modeled by the natural world. Read More >
Phase I of Walnut Way's Innovations and Wellness Commons is now open in Milwaukee's Lindsay Heights neighborhood, with Phase II under development. Read More >


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The problem with the popular workout is that its exercises don't all demand the same level of intensity.
Fitness: Is the 7-Minute Workout too good to be true?
It's no wonder the 7-Minute Workout took the world by storm when it debuted in 2013, promising a full-body workout in just a few minutes a day.
One of the first workouts to demonstrate the power of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to the general public, it consists of 12 body weight exercises (squats, two variations of pushups, jumping jacks, lunges, dips, step-ups, wall sits, crunches, two variations of planks, running on the spot) performed in 30-second bursts with a 10-second rest between each exercise. The only equipment needed is a chair, making it perfect not just for time-crunched exercisers, but for travellers, apartment dwellers and anyone else who doesn't want to invest in a home gym.
Still popular four years later, the workout has spawned several apps that have been downloaded millions of times by people excited by the promise of getting all the exercise they need in a matter of minutes. But now that the dust has settled and high-intensity interval training has been more rigorously tested, how does the 7-Minute Workout measure up to other HIIT workouts?
A research team from California State University San Marcos decided to put the 7-Minute Workout to the test, comparing it to a traditional HIIT session performed on a bike. The idea was to see whether intensity levels recorded for the 7-Minute Workout are high enough to qualify as a HIIT session. Noting that the results of HIIT workouts are based primarily on research performed in a lab using top-quality equipment, a well-defined workout protocol and staff who make sure the exercisers stay on track, the researchers wanted to see if a home-based program like the 7-Minute Workout, in which intensity is based on the exerciser's own motivation, is worthy of its "scientifically based" promise of improved fitness and weight loss.
The first step was getting height, weight and VO2 max scores from 14 recreational exercisers (seven men and seven women), aged 19 to 45. Once the baseline measurements were taken, each exerciser performed both the 7-Minute Workout and a cycling HIIT, with a two-day break between the physical tests. The cycling workout mimicked the 7-Minute Workout, demanding a dozen 30-second bouts of high-intensity pedalling (at 70 per cent of peak power) followed by 10 seconds of active rest (20 per cent of peak power), for a total of six minutes of active work.
The results showed that the cycling intervals were more physically demanding than the intervals in the 7-Minute Workout, producing a greater demand for oxygen, a higher heart rate and a higher level of perceived exertion.
That doesn't mean the 7-Minute Workout was a walk in the park. Several times during the workout, the intensity matched that of the cycling test. The problem is that not all exercises in the 7-Minute Workout demand the same level of intensity, which lowered the overall effectiveness of the workout.
"Heart rate and VO2 were highest when dynamic lower-body exercise including high knees, lunges, step-ups onto a chair and squats were performed," stated the researchers, "whereas lower VO2 and heart rate were evident when participants completed small muscle mass exercise (triceps dip), passive exercise (wall sit), or were supine, as in the case of planks and abdominal crunches."
The solution for those who want to make the workout a little tougher is to swap out some of the less intense exercises in favour of ones that will keep the heart pumping, allowing for a more consistent level of intensity. The authors suggest "dynamic, multi-joint movements including burpees, deadlifts and/or box jumps" in place of wall sits, planks, crunches and tricep dips.
The changes are worth considering, given that the convenience of the 7-Minute Workout makes it a great option on days when a longer, more traditional workout isn't in the cards. Even better, it doesn't require a lot of equipment, which means you can do it anywhere, any time. And with so many apps that take you through the whole workout, including timing each interval, it couldn't be easier. Just remember: if you want to get the most out of your seven minutes, choose an app that allows you to build your own bank of exercises — or better yet, one that allows you to create your own 7-Minute Workout. With a little tweaking, it has the potential to be one of the most effective home-based workouts for time- and cash-strapped Canadians of all fitness levels.
Three great 7-Minute Workout apps
The Johnson & Johnson Official 7-Minute Workout: Not only does this app lead you through the original workout, complete with timer, it allows you to change up the exercises and difficulty level, which makes it great for novices and fitness diehards alike. And for anyone who isn't sure how to do any of the suggested exercises, there are videos demonstrating proper technique.
7-Minute Workout app by Wahoo: This app is easy to use and features multiple variations on the workout, so you can dial the intensity up or down as needed. You can also add sets if you want to extend the workout. And for Apple lovers, it integrates with your Apple Watch and Apple TV.
Scientific 7-Minute Workout: You'll want to splurge for the $1.99 version of this app to get rid of the ads, but once you do that you'll appreciate the voice commands telling you when to start and when to take a break. You can customize the workout, view videos of exercises you're not familiar with and use the countdown timer to keep you on track.


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Small Business Managment
Chapter One
Starting Your Small Business
Page 27 Questions 4, 9, 10
4. What comes to your mind when you think of a small business? How does your concept differ from the definition given in this chapter? When I think of a small business, I think of smaller stores like on the main street in old Ellicott City. Small stores in shopping centers where there is only one like it. Also, businesses people run from their house like small home improvement company's or hair salons. The definition from the text book states that a small business is one that is independently owned and operated and is not dominant in its field of operation, and does not engage in new or innovative practices. My ideal of what a small business is pretty much goes along with the definition in the book, although I didn't know that they didn't engage in new or innovative practices.
9. Discuss the four personal objectives that people seek when starting a new business. The four primary personal objectives of small business owners, according to the text, are to achieve independence, obtain additional income, help their families, and provide products not available anywhere else. Achieving Independence is the main objective in starting a new business because people start businesses to be there own boss, to have creative freedom and be able to express their ideas how they want to. People also start businesses to obtain additional income. Some people what extra money on top of the money they already make, and some people are looking for a whole new job life where they can make more money then they were making at their old job. Another personal objective when staring a new business is to help their families. Many people start businesses to have more money to help support their families or they may take over a family owned business to take some of the stress off their family. The last personal objective is to provide products that aren't available elsewhere. People may be looking for something, and see that it is hard to find but there is a demand for it so they start a business to help make it available to everyone.
10. Explain the interrelationship between the service and profit objectives. The service objectives must be achieved to attain the profit objective. The objective of a business is to serve customers by producing and selling goods or services at a cost that will ensure a fair price to the consumer and adequate profits for the owners. Profit is the revenue received by a business in excess of the expenses paid. Profits are the reward for accepting business risks and performing an economic service.
Chapter 2
Family-Owned Businesses
Page 48 Questions 2, 3, 5
2. Why is it often difficult to make reasonable decisions in a family business? What problems are caused by a family organization structure? It is difficult to make reasonable decisions in a family business because people in the family don't want to hurt other family members feelings and don't want to make then feel like they are unimportant or any different from everyone else in the family.
3. What problems face a company when a key officer leaves suddenly? If a key officer suddenly leaves and didn't leave any instructions as to how things should continue with the company, people will most likely have conflicting ideas on what they think should be done. The company may end up falling apart.
5. Suppose you have a successful business now but decide you want to leave it. What might be some reasons for leaving it? What alternatives do you have for the business? Some reasons someone might leave a successful business are to pursue another career, start a family, death, and continue education, etcetera. Some alternatives for the business are let someone in the family take over the business, have one or more members work part-time, get education, and rotate jobs.
Chapter Three
Forms of Ownership of Small Business
Page 68...
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The mission of Harmony School of Excellence-DC is to prepare students for higher learning in a safe, caring, and collaborative atmosphere through a quality learner-centered educational program with a strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Founding members of Harmony Public Schools (HPS) believe that excelling in math and science prepares youth to succeed in college, the workplace and the 21st century. The educational philosophy of HPS founders is that school exists for the welfare and dignity of the child. Education at Harmony is student-centered and each child is recognized as a unique individual with unique interests, needs, and abilities.
Harmony aims to develop responsive, productive, and civic-minded youth by inspiring them to follow their dreams while making the world a better place for themselves and others. Harmony is focused on core knowledge and essential skills so that children may achieve the mastery upon which further learning will be built. The purpose of Harmony isto foster productive attitudes toward work, family, and community. When students have a positive attitude toward school, their perception of "school" transforms.
Every effort will be made to humanize and personalize the environment in which students learn, and to maintain a friendly and wholesome atmosphere that encourages creative expression and a desire to acquire knowledge. The emphasis of the entire instructional program is aimed at meeting the individual needs of each student in order to allow children to develop to their fullest potential. The school establishes an atmosphere in which students develop abilities to generate new thoughts, to think analytically, to draw logical conclusions, and to express thoughts in written and verbal form. It is a function of the school to develop the well-rounded child by fostering aesthetic as well as academic growth through increased awareness and appreciation of the arts and sciences. By instilling in the student knowledge and appreciation of one's heritage as a member of the American community, as an American citizen, and as a member of a family, the school strives to make the student aware of accountability to oneself and to others.
Since adolescents thrive in an environment of diversity, we will strive to create a diverse learning environment. Diversity is not only a motivating factor, but also an essential element in a well-rounded education. It serves as a key to success in our diverse American society, institutions of higher learning, and inter-connected global economy.
Each and every student at Harmony will be regarded as a unique, valuable, and vital member of the school community. Individual attention in the form of blended learning strategies, intensive counseling, and personalized goals is the key to motivating our students. Cooperation with area universities is an effective means toward enhancing the effectiveness of our tutoring system.
While cherishing the individual choice of each student, the school will focus on core knowledge and essential skills so that children may achieve the mastery upon which further learning will be built. The school's strong academic program will reduce achievement gaps by eliminating an important cause: the insufficient mastery of basic knowledge and skills required for further academic achievement. Harmony will use a variety of teaching methods to ensure mastery of appropriate skills, ideas, and knowledge for all students, regardless of race, gender, disability, and/or socioeconomic background.
There are specific elements required to accomplish our vision, which include; 1) enriched curricula and authentic assessment, 2) effective school management, 3) parental involvement, 4) technology integration, 5) sound fiscal management, 6) leadership and character development, and 7) safety.
The founders envision an environment where families, teachers, and students communicate on a regular basis, in order to optimize the students' educational opportunities in addition to activities that contribute to the complete personal and social development and personal esteem, such as recreation, athletics and co-curricular and/or extracurricular activities. Affective, cognitive, and linguistic needs of each student will be met; individualized and differentiated educational plans will be developed for each student and collaboration among teachers will be rigorously monitored.
HPS founders believe that leading by example is the best way to inspire change. Through the development of a school with challenging standards of academic excellence, which results in higher achievement scores; through the inclusion of all students regardless of racial, ethnic background, language barriers, educational classifications, or socio-economic status; and through the demonstrated satisfaction of students and families alike, the impetus for change in the region public schools will be realized.


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10 stories of people having supernatural experiences after dying and then coming back to life.
Barker, Alfred Trevor
(1893-1941). A theosophist who is particularly noted for compiling and publishing The MAHATMA LETTERS TO A. P. SINNETT in December 1923. Barker was born October 10, 1893, at Las Palmas in the Canary Islands. There are no records extant regarding his education, but his work for the Theosophical Society (TS) was of such a standard that he obviously had a good general education. Several references accord him the title "Doctor," but it is not clear when and where he gained this degree. In 1926 he published H. P. Blavatsky's Letters to A. P. Sinnett.
He originally joined the Theosophical Society (Adyar), but resigned in 1925; he joined the Point Loma Theosophical Society in July 30, 1930. Barker was for a number of years the President of the English Section of the Point Loma Theosophical Society. He died at Torquay, Devon, England on July 17, 1941.
© Copyright by the Theosophical Publishing House, Manila


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"All your favorite music is made by people on drugs" Bill Hicks
On stage during one of his iconic standup routines the late and revered comedian Bill Hicks suggested that all great artistic work was created by people who had some kind of artificial stimulant to push them further. There is the idea that in order to truly unleash a level of mental creative freedom you need something to take you away from the logical processes of the mind.
To an extent Bill Hicks had a point- while many people see this as a modern phenomenon it goes back to the Romantic poets and their usage of opium as a method of expanding their creative horizons. In all likelihood creative individuals have probably used similar stimulants before that in order to function.
However using Bill Hicks as a symbol of this freedom is misleading- during the peak of his fame he was in actual fact clean (indeed one part of his routine had him quipping that he would quit smoking "to see if Dennis Leary would do it.")
The fact is that there are plenty of people who take drugs, drink coffee and so forth that do not create iconic works of art or literature. While it is true that these things can be used to awaken the mind equally these can be crutches and diversions that prevent people from being able to get down to the process of doing the work.
The drug myth also often seems tied in with the myth of "divine" inspiration. While this can happen (allegedly the idea for the Terminator came to the director James Cameron in a dream) often this work tends to be as a result of a long and drawn out process that requires a lot of hard work and a degree of logical thinking in order to shape a creative project into something that works.
What people don't like to hear is that the creative process is very rarely an overnight sensation. Often if you are working at a day job you tend to think of the creative process of being fun or something only available to a select few people who the Gods have blessed with the gift of creative ability. The reality is that most things that people think of as overnight sensations tend to be the result of years of hard work and rejection... think of the amount of publishers who must be kicking themselves for turning down Harry Potter!
The first thing to realize before you sit down to work on a creative project is to not be intimidated. It doesn't have to be an iconic work of art. Often one thing that stops people writing or drawing is the thought that everything placed on paper or on the computer has to be brilliant. The opposite is actually true- being prepared to work through your ideas can make it easier to process them and make it easier to place them in a structure.
The next part is getting through the work to completion. It can be hard and it is often at this point that people feel the need to stop for coffee, drinks etc. This can be part of the process and if it helps you then that's fine (although if it's illegal it's not advisable and I don't advise it!)
However as boring as it is the real key to creativity is the act of being creative. In the music biopic spoof Walk Hard the song A Beautiful Ride talks of "making a little music every day until you die." This doesn't solely apply to music- if you are a creative person you will get the full benefit if you try to create something each day.
Put your thinking cap on and get creative.
Maryann dittlinger malacara
9/21/2016 12:32:31 am
I m emotional after reading this. Dont know why. Actually im crying now and still dont know why. Thank you. I love you. Thanks for these words. Wish I wasnt duch a coward to write.
Michelle Dim-St. Pierre
9/21/2016 10:11:28 am
Thank you for your comment. I didn't mean to stir your emotions up. If you write for yourself you will find writing to be a relief instead of stress. I think what you are worried about is what other people might think about what you write. Well, you don't need to let anyone else read your writing. There is one thing "writing" and another thing "publishing". Not everything you write needs to gets published, if any. There are people who write only for themselves. And anyway that's what an editor gets paid for—to smooth out what the author writes. And by the way, you are not a coward. Have a wonderful day.
Leave a Reply.
August 2018


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It's no secret – I'm a runner. And I do other forms of exercise outside of running. When I race, I tend to wear a hat. When I'm running during the middle of the day (at work) and I don't have time to re-do my hair, I tend to pull it back and need something to keep my hair out of my face.
Last April, I bought a Boston Strong BIC Band – a portion of sales from the bic band benefited The One Fund in Boston, following the bombings at the Boston Marathon. I'd heard of BIC Bands, and I loved the fact that the company donates to a charity each month. (You can see a list of charities they've donated to in the past.) The Boston Strong BIC Band enabled them to donate over $18,000 to the One Fund. Amazing.
What's even better about this charitable act is this donation wasn't a first for this company. They donate to a charity each month. This month, they're supporting Mana Nutrition.
So, I ordered the skinny band and I loved it. I've worn it so many times the past 10 months. I still pull my hair into a ponytail, but this keeps the hair out of my face, and I don't get extra sweaty. So when I have to go back into the office, I still look (mostly) put together. (Not totally, because some workouts are tougher than others.)
I was so excited when BIC Bands agreed to let me review them….and giveaway three BIC Bands! I've decided to give away the three individually, so you have more chances to win.
So check it out. On Thursday, I wore the minnie band for a treadmill run. The before and after photos:
(Fail for me taking a forward-facing photo. Lesson learned.)
See how in-place my hair still is after a run? I didn't have to readjust the band. It just stayed in place. This was actually a 3-mile run.
And on Saturday, I wore a thin band for a 4-mile race. I put it on two hours before the race, and didn't have to readjust it until well after (and I only readjusted it so I could show my friends the exact material it was made of.)
There's no pulling or tearing of your hair. The underside has a velvet-like material to help keep things secure. It stretches just enough and it's not too tight. And the band doesn't overheat you.
To clean the bands, you can hand wash them or even wear them into the shower. I actually hang mine in the shower on occasion. It works.
I actually want to order the skinny frost bands. I'm a bit obsessed with the colors.
Now the fun part. Three lucky people will win one of the following BIC Bands!
Enter the giveaway through the Rafflecopter widget below. The giveaway will last one week, and a winner will be announced on March 25. Good luck!!
Do you wear headbands when you work out or run? Have you ever tried BIC Bands before?
**Full disclosure: I received a set of BIC Bands to try out and review on this blog. No other compensation has been received and all reviews are my own.


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Soothe those frazzled city nerves with a quick getaway to Ingar campground on Kings Tableland, near Wentworth Falls. The Ingar firetrail leads to this picturesque campsite nestled amongst the scribbly gums.
Kickstart your kids' love of the Australian bush with a heap of family friendly options, including mountain biking and walking. The nearby dam on Ingar Creek is perfect for swimming, paddling and liloing. If you're lucky, there might be an eastern water dragon sunning itself on the creek bank.
After a barbecue dinner, get out the torch and look for the local nightlife. You might see sugar gliders, possums and bandicoots. Then it's time to toast marshmallows over your campfire before settling, exhausted but happy, into your tent.


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- Dimensions: 3.25" x 4" (when folded)
- 5 card slots
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- Synthetic Microfiber (polyurethane derivative)
- Manufactured under Ethical Fair Trade practices in India
- The Vegan Collection logo embossed on front face of wallet
This product hasn't received any reviews yet. Be the first to review this product!


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Monster show tonight with a Ton of stories, I only cover the upcoming iPhone announcements ever briefly as most of you will get the details early tomorrow morning. I want to welcome all of the new Google+ Listeners as those following me over their has exploded! Subscribe to the show and get signed up for the newsletter.Support my Show Sponsor:
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4 Car Sales Techniques You Need To Stop Using To Not Annoy Your Customers
Although, working in sales can be taxing, but you love every minute of it. Unfortunately, many car dealers everywhere still have to struggle against the traditional salesman stereotype that disrupts your culture. You may be good at your job, but you have to keep your sales techniques in check whether they are attracting the customers or annoying them.
Here are 4 mistakes you need to look out for.
- You are not having two-way conversations with your potential or current customers.
Car dealers are deemed to be known as 'talkers', which is totally fine—as long you are listening too. You shouldn't be just blabbering about your sales proposals, instead, you should learn more about your customers and ask the questions so that you can help them make an informed purchase decision. There is nothing worse than a car dealer who cannot have a two way communication and listen to what a customer has to say.
- You are too pushy or sales-y when it comes to making a sale.
Studies conclude that when it comes to customer response towards any salesperson, the common response says, "Pushy." A vehicle is probably the second biggest purchase decision a customer ever makes, ranking after purchasing a house. They do not want to feel pushed at all into investing a fortune on a car they would not love to have in their garage or parking lot. When you seem too pushy for them, it should the other party your true colors—you are most concerned about making a sale, accomplishing your target and earning your commission than focusing on what your customer actually wants.
- Your phone calls are annoying to the core.
Sales people make different types of calls all day, but many times there is no rhyme or reason to why or when they are calling, or what is the motive of their call? One should integrate an Automotive CRM in your dealership to know when it is a perfect time to call a client, the purpose of your call, and to use any call templates you have saved in your CRM system. Your CRM system can also keep you apprised when the leads want to be called, there may be notes in your CRM that specify the customer only wants to be bothered by email or just by text messages.


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The Coleman Cobalt Prospect is one of five cobalt prospects in Ontario currently held by Cruz.
The Coleman Cobalt Prospect consists of approximately 1,265 contiguous acres in the Larder Lake mining division of Ontario.
According to the Province of Ontario mineral file, the property returned historic COBALT showings and appears to be an extension of the Tretheway veins (historic data, needs to be reconfirmed).
Management has commenced explorations on this property utilizing the flow through funds on hand. Cruz has recently completed an airborne survey over the Ontario cobalt prospects which has identified 6 primary cobalt targets.


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Hello everyone! I've got a new job. I'm pretty excited about it. My new title is Positive Cultural Engineer. That's right, I have officially commissioned myself, as Mahatma Ghandi once said, "Be the change you wish to see in the world."
It feels exhilarating growing into your being as a powerful creator. Remember this.What you focus on expands. If your thoughts tend to stay in low vibrational frequencies like fear, anger, or lack. That is what you will create in your everyday environment. Fortunately, the opposite is just as true and powerful. If your thoughts are soaring in higher vibrational frequencies, then you will see amazing evidence of your awesomeness.
As newly appointed Positive Cultural Engineers, it's up to us to make sure that we create for ourselves the happiest and most peaceful environments possible. Make sure to do things that nourish your spirit. Forgive yourself and others as needed. Decrease negative tv. Reconnect with nature. Do kind things for others, or countless other high vibrational activities.
There's a big beautiful world out there. Together we can build one filled with love and compassion.
What positive change will you create?
Future Focused


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New York City encompasses five county-level administrative divisions called boroughs: The Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island. All five boroughs are part of New York City, and each borough is coterminous with a respective county. The boroughs of Queens and The Bronx are concurrent with the counties of the same name, while the boroughs of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Staten Island correspond to New York, Kings, and Richmond counties, respectively.
All five boroughs came into existence with the consolidation of New York City in 1898, when New York County, Kings County, Queens County, and Richmond County consolidated into one municipal government. The former municipalities in Kings, Richmond, and most of Queens counties were abolished, though the counties themselves were retained. However, the five boroughs have not always been coextensive with their five respective counties.
Prior to consolidation, New York City and New York County were coterminous, originally consisting of Manhattan Island and smaller surrounding islands. As the city-county grew northward, it began annexing areas on the mainland, absorbing territory from Westchester County in two stages in 1874 and 1895. During the 1898 consolidation, this territory was organized as the borough of the Bronx, apart from the borough of Manhattan, though both boroughs still remained within New York County. In 1914, Bronx County was split-off from New York County to match the borough.
Furthermore, not all of Queens County consolidated with New York City in 1898. For one year, Queens County contained an area within the city limits (the borough of Queens), as well as an eastern portion outside of the city limits. In 1899, this eastern territory was split-off to form Nassau County, thereafter making the borough and county of Queens coterminous.
The term borough was adopted to describe a form of governmental administration for each of the five fundamental constituent parts of the newly consolidated city in 1898. Under the 1898 City Charter adopted by the New York State Legislature, a "borough" is a municipal corporation that is created when a county is merged with populated areas within it.[1] The limited powers of the borough governments are inferior to the authority of the Government of New York City, contrasting significantly with other borough administrations of government used in Connecticut, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, where a borough is an independent level of government, as well as borough forms used in other states and in Greater London.[2]
New York City is often referred to collectively as the five boroughs; the term is used to refer to New York City as a whole unambiguously, avoiding confusion with any particular borough or with the Greater New York metropolitan area. The term is also used by politicians to counter a frequent focus on Manhattan and thereby to place all five boroughs on equal footing. In the same vein, the term outer boroughs refers to all of the boroughs excluding Manhattan, even though the geographic center of the city is along the Brooklyn–Queens border. All five boroughs were created in 1898 during consolidation, when the city's current boundaries were established.
The Bronx originally included parts of New York County outside of Manhattan that had previously been ceded by neighboring Westchester County in two stages; in 1874 and then following a referendum in 1894. Ultimately in 1914, the present-day separate Bronx County became the last county to be created in the State of New York.
The borough of Queens consists of what formerly was only the western part of a then-larger Queens County. In 1899, the three eastern towns of Queens County that had not joined the city the year before—the towns of Hempstead, North Hempstead, and Oyster Bay—formally seceded from Queens County to form the new Nassau County.[3]
The borough of Staten Island, concurrent with Richmond County, was officially the borough of Richmond until the name was changed in 1975 to reflect its common appellation, while leaving the name of the county unchanged.[4]
There are hundreds of distinct neighborhoods throughout the five boroughs of New York City, many with a definable history and character to call their own.
See main article: article and Borough president. Since 1914, each of New York City's five boroughs has been coextensive with a county of New York State - unlike most U.S. cities, which lie within a single county or extend partially into another county, constitute a county in themselves, or are completely separate and independent of any county.
Each borough is represented by a borough president. Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island each have a Borough Hall with limited administrative functions. The Manhattan Borough President's office is situated in the Manhattan Municipal Building. The Bronx Borough President's office used to be in its own Bronx Borough Hall but has been in the Bronx County Courthouse for decades. Since the abolition of the Board of Estimate in 1990 (due to a 1989 ruling of the U.S. Supreme Court[25]), the borough presidents have minimal executive powers, and there is no legislative function within a borough. Executive functions in New York City are the responsibility of the Mayor of New York City, while legislative functions reside with the New York City Council. The borough presidents primarily act as spokesmen, advocates, and ceremonial leaders for their boroughs, have budgets from which they can allocate relatively modest sums of money to community organizations and projects, and appoint the members of the 59 largely advisory community boards in the city's various neighborhoods. The Brooklyn and Queens borough presidents also appoint trustees to the local public library systems in those boroughs.
Being coextensive with an individual county, each borough also elects a district attorney, as does every other county of New York State. While the district attorneys of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Staten Island are popularly referred to as such by the media (e.g., "Manhattan D.A. Cyrus Vance, Jr.", or "Brooklyn D.A. Kenneth P. Thompson"), they are technically and legally the district attorneys of New York County, Kings County and Richmond County, respectively. There is no such distinction made for the district attorneys of the other two counties, Queens and the Bronx, since these boroughs share the respective counties' names. Because the five district attorneys are, technically speaking, state officials (since the counties are considered to be arms of the state government), rather than officials of the city government, they are not subject to the term limitations that govern other New York City officials such as the mayor, the New York City Public Advocate, members of the city council, or the borough presidents. Some civil court judges also are elected on a borough-wide basis, although they generally are eligible to serve throughout the city.
See main article: article and Sixth borough. The term sixth borough is used to describe any of a number of places that have been metaphorically called a part of New York City because of their geographic location, demographics (they include large numbers of former New Yorkers), special affiliation, or cosmopolitan character. They have included adjacent cities and counties in the New York metropolitan area as well as in other states, U.S. territories, and foreign countries.[26] [27] [28] In 2011, New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg referred to the city's waterfront and waterways as a composite sixth borough during presentations of planned rehabilitation projects along the city's shoreline,[29] [30] [31] [32] [33] [34] including Governor's Island in the Upper New York Bay.[35] The Hudson Waterfront in the U.S. state of New Jersey lies opposite Manhattan on the Hudson River, and during the Dutch colonial era, was under the jurisdiction of New Amsterdam and known as Bergen. Jersey City and Hoboken in Hudson County, New Jersey, are sometimes referred to as the sixth borough, given their proximity and connections by rapid transit PATH trains.[36] [37] [38] [39] Fort Lee, New Jersey, in Bergen County, opposite Upper Manhattan and connected by the George Washington Bridge, has also been called the sixth borough.[40] [41] [42] Miami and nearby areas in Florida,[43] [44] Philadelphia[45] and China[46] are locales entirely outside the city's metropolitan area which have been called New York City's sixth borough.


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Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo
This recipe for cheesy garlic shrimp alfredo is a good idea when you are hoping to change up your dinner ideas with pasta. It's easy to get into a cooking rut when it comes to dinner every night, and this easy, delicious pasta recipe is nice variation on spaghetti and meatballs. With ingredients like cream cheese, butter, garlic, shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese, this dinner idea with pasta is extra creamy.
When using any seafood or meat you want to be sure to practice simple tips that will help to ensure that your kitchen is free of bacteria. You will want to teach everyone in your family to practice proper food safety to ensure your house stays clear of food-borne illness. One of the easiest ways to do that is to always properly wash your hands. You want to be sure and wash your hands for at least 20 seconds before handling any food and also after handling seafood, meat, poultry, and eggs. You also want to clean and sanitize all countertops, cutting boards and utensils before and after preparing seafood and meat. When it comes to deveining shrimp many people are unsure of exactly what to do. You might try and look at short step by step videos of the process, or you can ask the person behind the seafood counter to remove any shells for you. Deshelling and deveining are easy to do on your own. The vein in a shrimp is not, in fact, a vein, but rather the shrimp's digestive tract. Sometimes the vein will be very prominent, or you may hardly notice it. It all depends on the shrimp. The vein isn't harmful if you accidentally eat one, but rather they are more unsightly and may add some grittiness to the bite of your shrimp. To remove the shrimp vein all you have to do is make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp and then simply pull out the vein with the tip of a knife. It may sound a bit disgusting and unpleasant at first, but once you do a shrimp or two, you get used to it and can get the job done quite quickly.
This easy, delicious pasta recipe uses a lot of garlic in the recipe which adds to the overall flavor. Garlic is known to be a powerful antioxidant and antimicrobial, with both antiviral and antibiotic properties. When used for colds and flu, garlic may act as a decongestant and expectorant. In garlic, you will find enzymes, vitamin C, and minerals such as sulfur and selenium. But did you that taking a few cloves of raw garlic is also a popular natural remedy? During the cold and flu season, some people swear by eating a spoonful of raw, chopped garlic cloves or eating a fresh garlic clove as a natural remedy. Crushing fresh garlic by either mincing or chopping it or by chewing on a clove with your teeth causes a chemical reaction to take place that releases allicin. The allicin found in garlic is a powerful antibacterial that is only present just after the garlic has been crushed and only before it is heated. So eating some fresh garlic in its raw form may help with getting rid of some of the symptoms associated with the onset of a cold or flu.
This dynamite shrimp recipe can be found on the US Recipe site. You will find this dinner idea with pasta along with a variety of cake and pie recipe ideas, side dish recipes, bar recipes, desserts, main dish recipe ideas and so much more. **
Learn MORE / Get RECIPE at US Recipe
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The world of sports entertainment is in mourning today, as it was confirmed this morning that legendary WWE Superstar George 'The Animal' Steele, a.k.a. William James Myers, has passed away at the age of 79. The pro wrestler's death was confirmed by his wife Patricia, who revealed that he passed from kidney failure last night in Florida. The wrestling legend had been in and out of hospice care since April.
TMZ broke the news of George 'The Animal' Steele's passing last night, although wrestling promoter Eric Simms of ESS Promotions had previously shared that the late wrestler had entered hospice care, asking fans to pray for him, before he ultimately passed. This morning, a number of WWE Superstars took to Twitter to pay tribute to this wrestling legend, and the WWE released a statement, confirming George 'The Animal' Steele's death. Here's the full statement below, which reveals how he went from a high school teacher to a wrestling legend.
"WWE is saddened to learn that WWE Hall of Famer William James Myers, known to fans as George "The Animal" Steele, has passed away at the age of 79. Steele was one of the wildest and most unpredictable Superstars in sports-entertainment history. Yet, despite his green tongue, hairy torso and insatiable appetite for turnbuckle pads, "The Animal" was a very well-educated man. Prior to breaking into sports-entertainment, Steele received his Master's Degree from Central Michigan University and became a high school teacher and wrestling coach in the Detroit area. It was during his teaching stint that he began moonlighting in sports-entertainment, working in the Detroit-area promotions. Steele's first WWE appearances took place in 1967, when he began a heated rivalry with WWE Champion Bruno Sammartino. For nearly 20 years, Steele was a reviled villain, managed by the likes of fellow WWE Hall of Famers The Grand Wizard, "Classy" Freddie Blassie, Capt. Lou Albano and Mr. Fuji. His classic main events against Sammartino, Pedro Morales and Bob Backlund saw him come close to winning the WWE Championship on many occasions. In 1985, however, Steele was embraced by the WWE Universe and changed the course of his career. After The Iron Sheik and Nikolai Volkoff abandoned him during a match, Steele fell back under the tutelage of the then-beloved Albano. His transformation was remarkable, as one of the most hated men in the sport became one of its most loveable figures. Long after his in-ring retirement and WWE Hall of Fame induction, George "The Animal" Steele's name still evoked terror for one generation of WWE fans and warm smiles for another. WWE extends its condolences to Steele's family, friends and fans."
After a legendary career in the ring, George 'The Animal' Steel retired in 1988 and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 1995, although he still wasn't quite done with the world of 'sports entertainment'. He made a surprise return in a 1997 episode of Monday Night RAW to team up with Taka Michinoku, and then became a part of The Oddities in 1998. He also competed in a match against Jeff Jarrett on WCW Monday Nitro in 2000, and the wrestling icon's most recent appearance was in 2010, where he helped Kofi Kingston defeat David Otunga.
Non-wrestling fans may recognize George The Animal Steele's name from an episode of Seinfeld, where he was referenced in the classic "man hands" episode to describe one of Jerry's girlfriends. He also appeared in the 1994 classic Ed Wood as pro wrestler turned actor Tor Johnson, and had roles in other films such as Small Town Conspiracy, South of Heaven and Boston Girls. The wrestler is survived by his wife of 62 years, Patricia Randolph, and their three children. We have collected some of the tweets from pro wrestlers paying tribute to George 'The Animal' Steele, which you can read below.
BREAKING: WWE is saddened to learn that WWE Hall of Famer George "The Animal" Steele has passed away at age of 79. https://t.co/TTCUVMDtTUpic.twitter.com/AeEcohPCRe— WWE (@WWE) February 17, 2017
Keep George Steele in your prayers. Its not looking good. I am glad i got a chance to talk to him about 3 weeks... https://t.co/GB2cZZDfTN— eric simms (@ess316) February 16, 2017
I just spoke to george steele's wife to get an acurate update on him. He is currently in hospice. Please say a prayer for his family— eric simms (@ess316) February 16, 2017
Condolences go out to the Jim Myers family. George "The Animal" Steele was a fantastic guy and first class gentleman. RIP— Honky Tonk Man® (@OfficialHTM) February 17, 2017
Sorry to hear of the passing of George "The Animal" Steele--top star, great guy, had some fun car trips/talks with him in the 90's. #RIP— Jim Cornette (@TheJimCornette) February 17, 2017
Got the privilege of traveling the world with George 'The Animal' Steele and enjoyed every minute of it. RIP my friend. pic.twitter.com/UnbhTaY9Qt— John Layfield (@JCLayfield) February 17, 2017
REST IN PEACE GEORGE THE ANIMAL STEELE. YOU WERE ALWAYS THE INTELLIGENT BROTHER I LOVE YOU pic.twitter.com/4yQ1YyzyJ2— The Iron Sheik (@the_ironsheik) February 17, 2017
I feared him as a kid.— Tommy Dreamer (@THETOMMYDREAMER) February 17, 2017
I cheered him as a teenager
I became friends w/him as an adult
Never be another like
George the Animal Steele pic.twitter.com/TdrIfod68i
The wrestling world lost one of the best today and I lost a good friend. RIP George"the animal" Steele. My prayers are with his family. pic.twitter.com/2b5ITY5Q7l— Ted DiBiase (@MDMTedDiBiase) February 17, 2017


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Slow Down, Cool Down
January 1, 2018, 1:20AM I boarded a plane in Singapore headed for Berlin. I was excited and couldn't think of a better way to spend the first week of 2018 than on a meditation course with my spiritual master, Gurudev, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.
However, like many such courses, the stillness of our mind is often tested before we reach the event. When I arrived at the airport, I soon discovered my original flight had been cancelled.
"Ahhh", I thought to myself. "The Sanyam course begins!"
"Slow down, cool down". These were the first words spoken by Gurudev, and soon became the theme for the week. I took a sigh of relief thinking…
"Perfect, this is just what I needed".
Like most personal development programs the benefits experienced are mostly internal and difficult to put into words, so I won't even begin to try. Suffice to say, after the course and a week at home, my nervous system is saying "Thank you!".
If I had to choose one word to describe the week, I'd say "Celestial"
In Part 3 of my book on how to lead cultural transformation, I begin with Chapter 7 entitled: Tools for Inner Transformation. Why? Because before you can lead change, you must develop the skills to be able to access new sources of wisdom that will guide and empower you to lead transformational change. Otherwise you will continue to do what you have always done, and that is not transformation. Transformational leadership requires you to go inside and access new imaginal ideas through your intuition, awareness, and creativity.
What blocks or supports transformation is the state of our mind and quality of our awareness. Our mind is both the tool and object of change. When we encounter challenges or problems, do we respond or react? I used to react in difficult situations and in the process manage to alienate those I loved the most. My emotions would get the better of me and I knew I was not thinking clearly with all my mental abilities. Now, with more awareness, I respond with a curious mind that is more centered and calm.
Tools for inner transformation are those that develop inner awareness and access knowledge in our subconscious mind. To access wisdom at this level, one needs to still the thoughts of the conscious mind. This can be achieved through the breath and meditation. An added benefit to stilling our thoughts is the peace of mind, mental clarity, and rest it gives to the whole body.
From the moment we wake until we go to sleep at night our minds are busy working at 14 to 32 cycles per second. This takes a lot of energy and is why we come home feeling exhausted even though we have not been physically active. Sitting for twenty minutes twice a day in meditation is a healthy practice for leaders to reduce stress, relax, and re-energize. The whole point is to do nothing.
Mounting medical research continues to suggest that our health, quality of life, and even the length of our life are all affected by our mental and emotional states. Now the hard science has caught up: a comprehensive scientific study has shown that deep relaxation changes our bodies on a genetic level. What researchers at Harvard Medical School discovered is that in long-term practitioners of relaxation methods such as yoga and meditation, far more "disease-fighting genes" were active, compared to those who practiced no form of relaxation.
As a corporate leadership consultant I have to be the first to experience a process before I can share, lead, and teach my clients a new method. This takes dedication to personal development and the desire to constantly learn, grow, and reflect.
Much of the personal awareness I have developed can be attributed to the tools and techniques taught on the TLEX Program. I highly recommend this as the first leadership development program for your leadership team if you are looking to develop transformational leadership in your organization.
You will be so happy you did! 🙂
Much love from Singapore,
Be sure to visit our Free Resource Center to get access to free e-books, worksheets and other valuable leadership development resources.
Our Signature Keynote – Awakening the Heart of Leadership Potential
To find out what your personal values are that empower you to higher performance and productivity, take a Free Personal Values Assessment.
To learn how well aligned you are with your workplace culture and what is impact performance, contact us for an Individual Values Assessment
To learn how to map, measure and manage the culture of your team or organization with our Culture Value Assessment for Teams and Organizations.
Joanna Barclay, Global Speaker, Published Author, and Thought-Leader on Cultural Transformation.
With 30 years in business transformation working with organizations, Joanna's passion lies in working with leaders, facilitating active participation in organizational change, developing resourceful teams and aligning strategic objectives. Her goal is to help organizations become high performing and values-driven, where people take ownership, build commitment and bridge communication gaps. As CEO of the Culture Leadership Group, she ensures successful transformation from concept through to implementation.


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