text:
Silence fell over the golden throne.
The civil and military officials all looked towards the figure on the throne.
The pearl curtain swayed, her bright phoenix eyes grew dim, and a faint voice sounded, "Is he, Su Shi …… still alive?"
The last moment of the picture, Su Shi seemed to fall from the air.
Chen Wangchuan shook his head, "I don't know, but judging from Demon Empress's reaction, Su Shi shouldn't be in trouble."
Given Netherworld Demon Empress's character, if something really happened to Su Shi, she would definitely not let them go.
Feng Chaoge asked again, "Has the Tiger Clan all been destroyed?"
Chen Wangchuan replied, "The Demon Empress's hand has leveled the mountain, and nobody from tiger clan has survived."
Feng Chaoge's eyes were extremely complicated.
After a moment of silence, she spoke, "General Wang's reward will remain."
"Your Majesty!"
Wang Mao looked anxious.
Feng Chaoge continued, "Convey my decision to make Su Shi's merit known to the world."
"As for the reward …… if he really wants it, let him come to Palace himself."
All the civil and military officials froze.
The Netherworld Rakshasa Sect had swallowed up thousands of miles of territory and was a thorn to the Imperial Palace.
And Su Shi, as the Shengzi of Netherworld Rakshasa Sect, was an uncompromisingly ruthless group of rebels.
And now Her Majesty has allowed him to come to the palace to be rewarded?
Wouldn't this help the Demonic path to clear its name?
But considering the image they had just seen, the ministers couldn't say a word.
The magnitude of his merit was indisputable!
Chen Wangchuan did not shirk by saying, "If I have the opportunity to meet Su Shi, I will definitely convey Your Majesty's decision honestly."
Feng Chaoge nodded her head, "Good."
She then looked towards Yu Ze, "General Yu."
Yu Ze bowed, "I am here."
"I order you to lead 200,000 elite troops and push the northern boundary monument 300 miles forward."
Hearing that biting voice, the ministers' scalps itched.
Holy Empress opened the border!
"I obey orders, Your Majesty is wise!"
The corners of Yu Ze's mouth curved into an excited smile.
An iron fist that repays an eye with an eye, a tooth with a tooth, this is the kind of Holy Empress he wants to follow!
Feng Chaoge, however, was somewhat disinterested and waved her hand, "I'm tired, let's dissolve this meeting."
After saying that, she directly got up, passed by a group of ministers, and walked out of the hall.
The maids accompanying her hurriedly followed.
The hall was silent for a long time.
Zhaotian Palace.
Feng Chaoge stood on the terrace.
Her phoenix robe was covered with dust, but she didn't care.
After an unknown amount of time, she said softly, "Am I too petty?"
The maids behind her whispered, "Your Majesty is a good Empress."
Feng Chaoge shook her head and smiled, "You praise me too much."
She held on to the railing, looked at the river and mountains in the distance, and said, "Shengzi of Demon Sect is busy saving people, Demon Empress is busy revenge and bloodshed, while I sit high in Zhaotian Palace, thinking of erasing their achievements."
"You all think that I am doing this for the sake of imperial power, don't you?"
"That's right, I am indeed doing it for the sake of imperial power."
"Because only by holding imperial power in my hands can I ensure the well-being of the people in this land!"
"Yun Qiluo is a strong person, but she is definitely not a good Empress!"
"With the appearance of Su Shi, the Netherworld Rakshasa Sect has gained the sympathy of the people, if they gain the hearts of the people again, the empire will be in danger!"
The maids lowered their heads.
Although the Holy Empress was powerful, cold and cruel, one had to admit that she was indeed a wise ruler.
Her country was strong, her people were well fed and clothed, and no foreign enemies dared to invade.
All of this could not have been achieved without the Holy Empress' efforts.
"If that is the case, why does Your Majesty still want Su Shi to come to the Imperial Palace?"
The maiden was confused.
Feng Chaoge sighed and shook her head, "Because even I did not expect that Su Shi had actually saved 200,000 people!"
She had heard the report from the general.
But the other party has no personal experience, and many details cannot be told clearly.
Seeing that memorable picture in the imperial palace, her heart set off a shocking wave!
Su Shi was truly brave!
"Even Sikong Lanyue has taken action, it seems that I really became a bad guy this time."
A trace of bitterness swept across the bottom of Feng Chaoge's eyes.
But it was quickly hidden and turned cold and indifferent again.
In her heart, she made up her mind.
As long as Su Shi came to the Imperial Palace, she must find a way to drag him!
"Power, status, divine treasure, women …… I have everything, I can't believe I can't compete with Yun Qiluo"
Above the clouds.
Zhan Qingchen breathed a sigh of relief and smiled, "Thank you very much, Master."
If it wasn't for Sikong Lanyue's hand, it's likely that Su Shi's credit would have been completely buried.
Sikong Lanyue shook her head and said, "Compared to what happened in the Northern Border, this is nothing to me."
When she thought of the figure that had risen against the sky, her heart rose and fell, unable to calm down for a long time.
If it weren't for Su Shi, the people of the city, including Zhan Qingchen, would have become food for the demon embryo!
If she remembered correctly.
This should have been the second time Su Shi saved her disciple.
Sikong Lanyue was silent for a moment and said, "Qingchen, do you have any way to make Su Shi come to the Land of the Great Clouds?"
"Get Su Shi to come to the sect?"
Zhan Qingchen froze, "Master, you ……"
In all these years, no one has ever gone up to the mountain gate of Tianji Pavilion!
Sikong Lanyue blushed slightly and shook his head, "Forget it, just pretend I never said that."
She secretly said that she was really crazy, she really wanted to take Su Shi as her disciple?
"No, I heard you clearly!"
Zhan Qingchen hurriedly said, "I'll take care of it, I have to let Master smell it himself"
Sikong Lanyue's eyebrows jumped wildly, "What are you talking about again? You will be punished–"
"Master can punish me with seclusion for as long as you want!"
Su Shi is not a stinky man!
Sikong Lanyue brushed off her sleeve and whispered, "I punish you by not being allowed to eat tonight!"
Zhan Qingchen smiled brightly.
News of the events in Huangyuan City immediately spread throughout the world.
The Holy Empress of Linlang announced to the world that Su Shi had destroyed the outsiders' conspiracy and saved 200,000 lives in the Northern Region, making him a great hero of mankind!
Together with Wang Mao and the others, Su Shi's name was heard in almost every corner of the Nine Regions.
Shengzi of Netherworld Rakshasa Sect, Moon-Picking Demon Star, a great hero of mankind!
The prestige of the Netherworld Demon Sect had reached an unprecedented peak!
However, the Righteous path had collectively lost their voice at this moment.
After all, it was an indisputable fact that they had abandoned the townspeople.
Fleeing at a time like this was really inviting trouble.
All the Righteous path cultivators now had the same thought.
In the Linlang Empire, the sky was about to turn upside down!
Su Shi had awakened.
Not naturally, but with a series of beeps.
[The reputation of the Linlang Empire has increased significantly, influencing the trend of the next plot, gaining 100 plot points.]
[Destroyed the Formation of the Nine Heavens and Ten Lands of Blood Slaughter, affecting the next plot trend, gaining 50 plot points]
[Destroyed the Tiger Clan in Mount Dang, affecting the next plot trend, gaining 50 plot points].
[Feng Chaoge made a big decision, affecting the next plot, earning 15 plot points.]
[Sikong Lanyue made a major decision, affecting the next plot, earning 15 plot points.]
[Sikong Lanyue made a major decision, affecting the next plot, gaining 15 plot points.]
[Chen Wangchuan has undergone an inner transformation, affecting the next plot, gaining 10 plot points.]
[Yu Yuan has undergone an inner transformation, affecting the next plot, gaining 5 plot points.]
Su Shi scratched his head.
"Holy Cow?!"


text:
Everyone meet Elena & Dalton. These two have the kind of love that warms the room the moment they step through the doors. Elena and Dalton grew up attending the same church, and both of their families have always been friends. One day their dads were joking about the two of them dating, and you can kind of say they spoke it into existence. The two have been inseparable ever since.
When Elena & Dalton originally toured Windwood in the winter of 2020, they fell in love with the natural beauty and peacefulness of the property. They imagined Windwood as the place where their new lives would begin and the place that would hold their wedding memories for years to come. Their love was contagious, and we became more and more excited to watch their love story grow over the coming months. Elena and Dalton were married at Windwood on a stunning spring Saturday in 2021.
Their wedding day was perfect and uniquely theirs. The couple brought attention to all the details that told their story. From the bride making her grand entrance in an old vintage truck to toasts with warm lattes, the day was all about the couple and their love for one another. The wedding ceremony took place inside of our Arena in front of our Lady Banks Rose Bush. The sun was setting perfectly as Elena's dad escorted her down the aisle to give her away. Family, friends, and loved ones watched as the two became one.
The couple's reception was a celebration of love. Guests enjoyed dinner from Sela's Imperial Catering. The couple opted for a latte bar to keep their guests warm and cozy throughout the event. Coffee holds a special place in Elena and Dalton's hearts, and they wanted to make sure their love for it was incorporated into their wedding day. From first sips to cozy chats by the fire, their day was perfect!
Elena and Dalton, the entire Windwood Events Team, would like to wish you both years of happiness and love. From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for allowing us to share this special day with you.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Robert Parry
Web: ConsortiumNews.comHistory of Guatemala's Death Squads by Robert Parry
[2008] The Bushes And Hitler's Appeasement by Robert Parry
[1993] Fooling America. A talk by Robert Parry
[1997] Media Mythology: Is the Press Liberal? By Robert Parry
[1999] Lost History: Contras, Cocaine, the Press & "Project Truth"
by Robert Parry
But the press has gone from being when I got there '77 as a
Watergate press corp, with its faults, with being maybe a little too overly
zealous in pursuing some minor infraction, but still - it was there as the
watchdog. What we have now, and its continuing into this new era, is the
Reagan-Bush press corp. It's the press corp that they helped create - that they
created partly by purging those, or encouraging the purging of those who were
not going along, but it was ultimately the editors and the news executives that
did the purging. It wasn't the White House or the State Department or the
Embassy in El Salvador that drove Ray Bonner out of the New York Times;
it was the New York Times executives who did it. And throughout that
whole era it wasn't the State Department or the White House that ruined Paul
Allen's career at NPR, it was NPR executives. And this was the case all the way
around Washington. The people who succeeded and did well were those who
didn't stand up, who didn't write the big stories, who looked the
other way when history was happening in front of them, and went along either
consciously or just by cowardice with the deception of the American people.
[1993] Fooling America.
A talk by Robert Parry
This administration had a thing about Central
America. At the time there had been a number of atrocities that were occurring,
and the four American churchwomen had been killed. And the explanations coming
from this transition team were quite remarkable. If you remember, Jean
Kirkpatrick suggested in one interview that these weren't really nuns, they were
more political activists, which always struck me as an amazing suggestion that
it's okay to kill political activists. Anyway, it seemed like a very important
area to them, one that might end up driving much of what they did, at least in
terms of foreign policy and national security issues.
So I began working on it. And that
experience, in a way, shaped what I did for the rest of my time at the AP. And
it was also striking to me that that experience was beyond anything I could have
imagine, as an American citizen, watching. It was a case of wide- spread killing
- political killing - of dissidents, torture, in the case of women often rape
was involved; and this government was not just supporting it, not just providing
the weapons and the military support, but trying to excuse it, rationalize it
and essentially hide it. [1993] Fooling America.
A talk by Robert Parry
But the reality became the greatest threat, even at that stage, to what the new administration wanted to accomplish, and what they wanted to accomplish was I think something they felt strongly about ideologically which was their view that the communists were on the march, that the Soviets were an expanding power, that you had to stop every left wing movement in its tracks and reverse it. And they were following of course the theory that Jean Kirkpatrick had devised that the totalitarian states never reverse and change into democratic states, only authoritarian ones do, which as we know now is perhaps one of the most inaccurate political theories. It's best if you're having a political theory, not to have it disproven so quickly, you know it might be best if you would, maybe fifty years from now you wouldn't really know as much. But Jean Kirkpatricks's was disproven very quickly but it was still the driving force behind the administration's approach to a number of these conflicts, and their justifications for going ahead and trying to conduct what became known later as the Reagan Doctrine which was to sponsor revolutionary operations or what am I saying, counterrevolutionary operations in many cases in various parts of the world and in the Third World in particular.
In ES of course, which was my first focus and the first focus of this policy, it was to protect a very brutal government which was at that time killing literally from a thousand to two thousand people a month. These were political murders; they were done in the most offensive fashion. I think any American, any average American, would have been shocked and would have opposed what his government was doing. So it became very important to keep that secret, or to minimize it, or rationalize it or somehow sanitize it.
So what we saw, even at that early stage, was the combat that was developing and the combat in terms of the domestic situation in Washington was how do you stop the press from telling that story. And much of what the Reagan administration developed were techniques to keep those kinds of stories out of the news media.
So the message was quite clearly made apparent to those of us working on this topic that when you tried to tell the American people what was happening, you put your career at risk, which may not seem like a lot to some people, but you know, reporters are like everybody else I guess - they have mortgages and families and so forth and they don't really want to lose their jobs - I mean it's not something they aspire to. And the idea of success is to keep one of these jobs and there are a lot of interesting perks that go with it, a certain amount of esteem, you know, as well as you get paid pretty well. Those jobs in Washington - you can often be making six figures at some of the major publications, so it's not something you readily or easily throw away, from that working level. [1993] Fooling America. A talk by Robert Parry
But what we began to see was something that was unusual I think even for Washington - certainly it was unusual in my experience - a very nasty, often ad hominem attack on the journalists who were not playing along. And the case of Bonner was important because he worked for the New York Times, and the New York Times was one of those bastions of American journalism - this was not some small paper, it was not some insignificant news figure. So there began an effort to discredit him and the Wall Street editorial page was brought into play, Accuracy In Media was brought into play, he was attacked routinely by the State Department and White House spokespeople, there were efforts to paint him as some kind of a communist sympathizer, the charge would go around that he was worth a full division for the FMLN - the Salvadoran guerrillas - he was treated as an enemy - someone who was anti-American, in effect. And sadly, it worked. I was in ES in October of '82, I was down there to interview Roberto Dobesan, who was head of the death squads, and I was with a conservative activist, and after that interview we had lunch with the head of the political-military affairs office at the Embassy and the officer was then head of the military group, and on the way back to the hotel, they were boasting about how they had "gotten" Ray Bonner. "We finally got that Son-of-a-Bitch," they said, and at that time his removal had not yet been announced, so it was very interesting to hear that they knew what was about to happen, and he was, in fact, removed by early 1983, and then he was sort of shunted aside at the New York Times and eventually left. [1993] Fooling America. A talk by Robert Parry
Now, the kind of effect that has is often subtle. In the case of NPR, one
thing that happened was that the foreign editor, named Paul Allen, saw his next
evaluation be marked down, and the use of this story was cited as one of the
reasons for his being marked down and he felt that he had no choice but to leave
NPR and he left journalism altogether. These were the kind of prices that people
were starting to pay, all across Washington. The message was quite clear both in
the region and in Washington that you were not going to do any career
advancement if you insisted on pushing these stories. The White House is going
to make it very, very painful for your editors by harassing them and yelling at
them; having letters sent; going to your news executives - going way above even
your bureau chiefs sometimes - to put the pressure on, to make sure if these
stories were done they were done only in the most tepid ways. And there also
was, in an underreported side of this, there were these independent
organizations, who were acting as sort of the Wurlitzer organ effect for the
White House attacks. Probably the most effective one from their side was
Accuracy In Media, which we find out, from looking at their internal documents -
the White House internal documents, was actually being funded out of the White
House. There was - in one case we have because we have the records, the White
House organized wealthy businessmen, particularly those from the news media,
from the conservative news media, to come into the White House to the situation
room where Charlie Wick, who was then head of USIA, pitched them to contribute a
total of $200,000 to be used for public diplomacy and the money is then directed
to Accuracy In Media and to Freedom House and a couple of other organizations
which then support the White House in its positions, and make the argument that
the White House is doing the right thing and that these reporters who are
getting in the way must be Sandinista sympathizers or must not be very patriotic
or whatever we were supposed to be at the time.
So you had this effect of what
seemed to be independent organizations raising their voice, but, the more we
kept finding out, the more we found at that these weren't independent
organizations at all. These were adjuncts of a White House/CIA program that had
at its very heart the idea of how we reported the news in Washington and how the
American people perceived what was going on in Central America. I'm not sure
this has ever happened before - I can't think of it, but it was a remarkable
change in the way that the government, as I guess Ross Perot might say, was
coming "at" the people rather than, you know, being "of" the people.
[1993] Fooling America.
A talk by Robert Parry


text:
If you've been wanting to turn one of your Super Mario Makerlevels into wallpaper, then you'll be happy to hear this news. Nintendo has released a wallpaper creator website based on the Mario game's creation tools.
The Super Mario Maker wallpaper creator allows you to build wallpapers for your desktop or mobile phone (via Polygon). It's entirely in Japanese, but it's not difficult to find the resolution you need to start creating. Once you're done, click the button with the robot face beneath your level. It'll take you to an image of your wallpaper, so you can save it for use on your desktop.
It features a lot of what the Wii U game offers, letting you choose between the four game styles: Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 3, Super Mario World, and New Super Mario Bros. U. You can also select which area you want to build in, be it the Mushroom Kingdom overworld, underwater, or a ghost house.
However, not every object in the game is available to decorate your wallpapers. You'll still be able to place pipes, Goombas, and Bowser, but you're out of luck if you want to use Pow blocks, Super Stars, or springboards.
Back in December, a web service for Super Mario Maker launched that allows players to more easily search for levels and bookmark them to play on the Wii U.
[Source:- gamerant]


text:
Shelf space battle will intensify with Nestlé/Bountiful deal, observers say
Nestlé finalized its deal with Bountiful's owner private equity firm KKR to the tune of $5.75 billion. Nestlé purchased the supplement brands Nature's Bounty, Solgar, Osteo Bi-Flex and Puritan's Pride, as well as the company's US private label business. Prior to the deal KKR had planned an initial public offering of stock in the company that was slated to raise about $6 billion.
Methodical nature of deal
Observers noted both the strategic nature of the acquisition and its price. Loren Israelsen, president of the United Natural Products Alliance, has been involved with and has observed dozens of such deals during his more than two decades in the business. While in some acquisitions it might feel as if a gold rush mentality had crept in — got to get in before all the good stuff's gone — this transaction seemed quite the opposite.
"This looked very Swiss to me — very Nestlé — in that it was methodical and sensible. They bought only those brands that made sense for them in their market in the big box stores," he said.
Nestlé identified a number of Bountiful's assets that, "do not complement the Nestlé Health Science portfolio." The portions of Bountiful excluded from the deal are the Pure Protein, Body Fortress, MET-Rx, and Dr.Organic as well as the Canadian over-the-counter (OTC) business.
"They are not competing against themselves and are not picking brands that are peripheral to their core market, which is the mainstream health and wellness shopper," Israelsen added.
"These are familiar brands and they can pump a ton of money into building those into the premier brands," he said.
Pandemic price bump?
Consultant Marc Brush, former editor of Nutrition Business Journal, said Nestlé has become one of the major players in the health and wellness space, which was growing faster that its core CPG businesses before the market distortions of the pandemic set in. Some dietary supplement industry forecasters believe that consumers' commitment to personal health care and the products that go along with it will only increase in the future, once the pandemic-induced frenzy for immune health supplements abates.
"Nestlé's commitment to supplements and nutrition is only getting deeper. The number of deals over the past few years, and the number of brands now inside that portfolio — Garden of Life, Vital Proteins, Persona, Pure Encapsulations — is formidable," Brush said.
"My first thought about a deal of this size is price. Will acquisitions on the leeward side of COVID cost too much, or can acquirers effectively normalize out pandemic sales — I've heard investors in the industry call this a "COVID bump" — and pay a fair price? These Bountiful brands cost Nestlé a little over 3x sales, 18x EBITDA, which seems high for the legacy brands involved here, but not exorbitantly so," he said.
As part of the IPO filing, KKR revealed that Bountiful had net sales of more than $2 billion in fiscal year 2020. The business, based in Ronkonkoma, NY and previously known as Nature's Bounty, was founded in 1971. The company once own the Holland & Barrett retail arm in Europe, which it sold in 2017.
Battle for shelf space
Israelsen said other brands competing in Nestlé's core markets will have to prepare themselves for a battle.
"Anyone who is in the same market with a dietary supplement brand, you'd better prepare yourself for a new level of challenge to maintain shelf space," Israelsen said.
Israelsen noted that another facet of the deal was a private equity owner selling a major supplement brand back to a strategic investor in the space. It could be the harbinger of another flurry of M&A deals within the industry.
"This is not the last deal that Nestlé will do. And I think the appetite and money are there for further acquisitions by multiple players," he said.
The Wall Street Journal reported that Nestlé ended 2020 with about $9.4 billion in cash (8.6 billion CHF) on hand, and a market value of almost $340 billion meaning the Swiss firm has ample financial wherewithal to fund the Bountiful deal along with other health and wellness acquisitions the company is reportedly contemplating.


text:
No one wants to be sold to, yet each of us can name commercials we love. Why? Because there's a difference between marketing campaigns that annoy us and those that draw us in. What it comes down to is telling the right story, and there's a method behind the creative madness that leads to our most compelling campaigns.
Define the enemy
You need something to rally your customers around, and to give your story focus and direction. You need an enemy, something your ideal customers simply do not like, such as their B2B competitor (Apple vs. Microsoft), higher prices (think expensive eyewear vs. Warby Parker ), a negative experience (bland party food vs. Tostitos) or an old or outdated way of doing things ( in-person meetings vs. Slack).
To choose the right enemy, you have to know what your customers like and dislike, what your company stands for and what market challenges you're attempting to solve. There's your enemy, and the trick is to talk about this enemy's shortcomings directly. This is not a prompt to start a fight. Do not create an enemy that doesn't already exist. The goal here is to convey in your marketing campaign, "We think that's bad. You agree with us, right? Let's do something different."
Show how to defeat the enemy
Good stories always have the hero prevail, and in this instance, your customer is the hero and it's your job to show them how to defeat their main enemy. Your standard elevator pitch is normally enough to get the point across. However, if you have the budget, it's your job to make the message even more engaging, generally utilizing video and photo campaigns, while also keeping things simple.
If you were to say, "Satan is bad, and good will eventually defeat evil," pretty much everyone would agree. That's how simple your message should become. In fact, that simple message lays the groundwork for the rules of most worldwide religions precisely because of its simplicity. You've shown your customer their enemy, and it's the job of your marketing campaign to provide them with an equally simple path toward heroism.
Related:10 Genius Marketing Campaigns That Went Viral
Create a picture of life without the enemy
Your customer ought to be better off with you than without you. Show them what that will be like. We've all come across campaigns with sentiments such as, "Our beer will bring you closer to friends and family" or, "Our software will give you your time and sanity back." These are successful campaigns because they're simple, and they provide a vision of happiness.
Even in a few words, you can depict your customers' enemy, your solution and life on the side of good — on your side. As you're putting your campaign together, explicitly define how your customer will feel. Then showcase that emotion in your campaign. You may even overemphasize it to get your point across. Most successful brands do this, and it works.
Call for action
Customers aren't actively trying to research or buy something before you push it in front of them. Their tendency is to stay the course, even if they're miserable, so you have to break their inertia to get them to act. It's the job of your campaign to tell them what to do — usually multiple times.
Your call to action needs to be clearly stated and simple and must obviously lead to defeating the enemy. Your campaign must absolutely meet these three conditions for your call to action to be effective. A great example might be, "Sign up today to get found online," with a link provided to do so.
Related:5 Rules for Stand-out Marketing Campaigns
Leave something memorable
A message, a visual, a sound, or a strong emotion that sticks is what makes a great marketing campaign. This is the thing that will randomly come to your customer's mind a week after experiencing your campaign.
Think Budweiser using "Wazzup…" Another cool campaign by the workflow automation platform Workato turned "work" into a bad word with their clever slogan, "Automate the w*rk out of everything." These are unique, memorable campaigns, and that's what customers love and remember.
In a nutshell
Compelling marketing campaigns always tell a good story, and one in which the customer is the hero and you've shown up to give them the tools to defeat their enemy. The campaigns that stand out particularly well tell that story in a very unique way and then provide customers with an action plan. When you do this across all of your marketing channels, you'll create campaigns that your customers absolutely love and remember.
Source: https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/421144


text:
General Orthopedics
Achilles Tendon Rupture
The Achilles tendon is a strong, fibrous cord present behind the ankle that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It is used when you walk, run and jump. The Achilles tendon ruptures most often in athletes participating in sports that involve running, pivoting and jumping.
Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow is the common name used for the elbow condition called lateral epicondylitis. It is an overuse injury that causes inflammation of the tendons that attach to the bony prominence on the outside of the elbow (lateral epicondyle). It is a painful condition occurring from repeated muscle contractions at the forearm that leads to inflammation and micro tears in the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle.
Distal Biceps Tendon Tear
The biceps muscle located in the front of the upper arm allows you to bend the elbow and rotate the arm. Biceps tendons attach the biceps muscle to the bones of the shoulder and the elbow.
Fractures and Trauma
The word "Fracture" implies a broken bone. A bone may get fractured completely or partially and it is caused commonly from trauma due to fall, motor vehicle accident or sports. Thinning of the bone due to osteoporosis in the elderly can cause the bone to break easily. Overuse injuries are common cause of stress fractures in athletes.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common, painful, progressive condition that is caused by compression of the median nerve at the wrist area.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome is a condition characterized by compression of the ulnar nerve in an area of the elbow called the cubital tunnel.


text:
Thieves stole over $100,000 worth of wheels and tires from a dealership. Matt Bowers Chevrolet called Slidell Police informing them that tires and wheels were missing off 31 of their vehicles. Chevy Tahoes, Malibus, trucks and small SUVs were all victims of this crime. The amount of tires and wheels stolen amounted to 124. The approximated value was $120,000.
Police believe that the thieves were professionals. They disabled the lighting, alarms, cctv and were able to break through locks. By the dark of night they were able to commit the crime without being noticed. Shortly before 3:00am two individuals are seen crossing the street to approach the dealership. It is believed that the two broke the locks on the dealership's gates.
Shortly after the locks were broken a U-Haul truck enters the rear parking lot. As seen from film 40 minutes later the truck drives off. It's thought that the thieves were already at work before the truck showed up. This allowed them to get the work done so quickly.
The thieves only left wood that was used to prop up the vehicles and a car jack. From surveillance police believe that the two individuals were black wearing a red shirt with black pants and the other was wearing all black.
[recent_post_slider design="design-3″ category="7″ dots="false"]
It turns out that there have been similar thefts in the United States. Some have happened in Oklahoma and Texas. Police are offering a $25,000 reward to the person who has information leading to an arrest. Half will be paid on arrest and the other half will be paid on conviction.
We think it's crazy how the thieves stole over $100,000 worth of wheels and tires and got away with it. That's what insurance is for. Let us know what your thoughts are in the comments below!


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The Smart Coach Radar App System has helped me with work on specific areas of my performance that need improvement. The radar gives me immediate feedback on my hitting and throwing to compare velo and form to make timely adjustments. It also allows me to view my progress overtime to make sure I am forming good habits.
2. What is your favorite feature of the app?
My favorite feature, by far, is being able to set the radar and phone app up to automatically record and save the video and velocity for each swing or throw. It doesn't require someone to push the button each time which allows me to focus on my performance and not the radar. The easy set up also let's me practice on my own without needing someone there to hold the radar or record video. I also like that it calls out the numbers so I don't have to constantly look at the radar or the phone screen.
3. How do you find easily uploading videos to social media to be of value?
Being able to upload videos straight from my phone to social media without having to edit or trim the video is a big time saver. It has allowed me to post videos quickly and more frequently, increasing my exposure to college coaches.
4. Why would you recommend other athletes utilize this tech when training?
I would highly recommend athletes utilize this technology to train and monitor progress in throwing and hitting. The pocket radar has helped me increase my hitting velo from 83mph in late March all the way to 90 mph in early June. I'm not sure where those numbers would be without pocket radar. One of the best investments my parents have made for me.
Follow Levi's journey on Twitter and YouTube
Day 31
— Levi Allison (@Levi_Allison11) April 12, 2020
Thankful for getting to train with my dad @CoachSeanCPT pic.twitter.com/F11VooBTit
Best of luck to Levi as he starts to play some real games and showcase his talent this summer. If you would like to potentially be featured in a future article, please email email@example.com
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Buy Chablis Wines
see all winemakers in ChablisThe white wines of the Chablis appellations are the « favourite white wines of the French » according to … the Burgundy winegrowers of Chablis! And, nobody can deny that the AOC Chablis wins many medals and other awards year after year in the wine guides that will help you buy Chablis wines, such as the Hachette Wine Guide or the "Revue du Vin de France".
Chablis wine is one of the many AOCs (Appellations d'origine contrôlée) in France. Having received several medals and distinctions, it is considered as one of the favourites of wine lovers. It is true that its taste and scents are enough to delight the most demanding!
Chablis and its different appellations
The AOC Chablis is produced in the eponymous commune in the department of Yonne, in the Burgundy region. It extends over 17 communes, including Chablis, Béru, Fleys and Viviers.
The quality of Chablis wines comes from the region's soil and climate. The grape varieties are planted on a limestone plateau. This gives them a particular flavour. Thanks to the oceanic climate blowing over Auxerre, a town close to the vineyards, the grapes from the production area give an exceptional wine.
This AOC can be recognised by its discreet colour. It is distinguished by white-green or pale yellow shades with touches of emerald or grey. Very fine and very dry, this wine has mineral notes that can be detected on the palate and nose. Scents of grapefruit and green apple distinguish it from other similar wines.
A visit of the Chablis cellars to get to know the appellation better.
To familiarize yourself with Chablis wine, visit the various estates in the vineyard. In particular, visit the domaine of Céline and Fréderic Gueguen located near the village of Chablis. The owners of the premises will share with you their techniques for obtaining this famous appellation. In Jean-Marc Brocard's vineyard, you will also learn more about grape growing and processing.
You should know that this appellation is obtained thanks to the Chardonnay grape variety. The producers pay a particular attention to it. Thus, to protect it from spring frosts, each one has its own technique. To keep it warm, some growers use heaters.
You will note that Chablis comes in different appellations: AOC Chablis, AOC Petit Chablis and Chablis Grand Cru, as well as Chablis Premier Cru.
Chablis Premier Cru is produced from grapes planted on the most exposed hillsides in the south and west of the wine-growing region. Chablis Grand Cru comes from grapes planted on the right bank of the Serein, across from the commune of Chablis.
The Petit Chablis appellation comes from grapes that grow on the terraces above the slopes. It is a primeur wine, lighter and more acidic than the AOC Chablis. It can be drunk in the year of its production or within 2 years.
By knowing these differences, you can be assured of a successful purchase of Chablis wine.
Chablis wine goes perfectly with various products
Now that the AOC Chablis has no more secrets for you, it is time to taste it. After you buy Chablis wines, choose the right recipes to enjoy them with. Here are a few ideas.
The particular acidity of this wine goes perfectly with seafood. You can therefore serve it with oysters or lobsters. But also with poultry in sauce or stir-fry or goat cheese.
You will also enjoy your Chablis wine with grilled andouillettes. The most greedy will be tempted by a mixture of salmon and sea bream drizzled with lemon and seasoned with dill. And if you like original dishes, enjoy your Chablis wine with garlic snails. You won't believe it!


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PULSE3AM Uses Horizontal and Vertical Lines to Open Up the Pilnock Residence
It's easy to get bogged down in the details when designing a home, but PULSE3AM thought high and wide when they took on the Pilnock Residence project. The duplex apartment exudes spaciousness thanks to the firm's creative mix of horizontal and vertical interest. Structural elements like steel beams, tall windows, and long ceiling vaults are accented by striped walls, exposed-brick pilasters, and geometric lighting fixtures—together creating a comfortable, open home.
In the open-plan first floor, which consists of a dining space, living room, and the kitchen, brick pilasters lead the eye up to the exposed second floor. The funky moose head art that is hung in a vertical pattern also emphasizes the space's height, as do the long cables of the dining room light fixture. In comparison, the wide, built-in shelves and exposed steel beams highlight the apartment's horizontality.
One of the home's most interesting elements is its barrel-vaulted ceilings. The rounded arches are a nice contrast to the apartment's many straight lines, but they also span the width of the exposed second floor, drawing attention to the ceiling height as well as across the space.
This type of spacial play is one of PULSE3AM's specialties. The NYC-based architecture and design studio explores the built environment and human perception, providing research on new forms and types of habitable space.
Check out more from PULSE3AM here.
Images courtesy of PULSE3AM


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Introducing the Bradstreet II Workstation
A sink is more than just a place to wash dishes. We depend on our sinks to do everyday tasks like washing and chopping fresh fruits and vegetables, air drying items of all sorts away from the countertop, scrubbing out stains left on our favorite clothes and even washing our littlest pets and babies. Given the amount of time we spend at our kitchen sink, we at Sinkology believe every kitchen sink should be equally beautiful and functional. This got us thinking: how could we improve the kitchen sink experience beyond our current sink selection?
Enter the Bradstreet II Workstation.
Our first-ever workstation brings the best accessories to our top-rated sink to help you get the most out of every use. This specialty workstation was made specifically for the Bradstreet II sink – and for you. No matter how you use your Bradstreet II Workstation, we promise it will delight.
We chose the Bradstreet II for this innovative workstation because of its superior quality and beautiful versatility. The extra-large single basin sink is handcrafted from genuine SureFire® material to form smooth, even surfaces with crisp 90° walls. Customers have always loved the Bradstreet II for its easy-to-clean, highly durable finish and its timeless look that suits every kitchen style. But what sets this the Bradstreet II Workstation apart from all others?
It makes daily work simpler.
The included accessories help homeowners get everyday tasks completed faster and easier while it keeps messes in one place, away from countertops and other kitchen surfaces.
It comes with a removable custom cutting board.
This quality, solid wood board is cut to size to fit the exact dimensions of the Bradstreet II perfectly and securely.
It's customizable.
You can choose from a left- or right-oriented drain to best suit your kitchen layout.
It includes a stainless steel bottom grid.
This accessory keeps the bottom of your sink protected and clean. The removable accessory is easily cleaned, right in the dishwasher.
If you have any additional questions during your search for the perfect copper, fireclay farmhouse sink or crafted stainless steel sink, our Sinkologists are here to help. Contact us or follow us on Facebook, Houzz, Pinterest, Instagram, or TikTok for more helpful tips and design ideas.


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Kendall dedicates war memorial, year-long effort led by 4 Boy Scouts
Big crowd turns out for dedication ceremony at Community Park
KENDALL – The Kendall community dedicated the new war memorial at the community park today, a project that was spearheaded by four Boy Scouts.
The four scouts – Jayden Pieniaszek, Noah Rath, Brian Shaw and Ryan Barrett – join local veterans for a group photo this afternoon at the new Kendall War Memorial, which the Scouts worked on together for their Eagle Scout community service project.
The Scouts first presented the plan to the Kendall Board of Education about a year ago. The plan quickly gained momentum in the community and was complete within in a year of that initial meeting.
Patriot Guard Riders salute while the American flag is raised by the memorial wall.
The 39-foot-long brick wall features granite plaques highlighting the American Revolution, the Civil War, World War I, World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam War, the Persian Gulf War and the War on Terror. Alternating the granite plaques are concrete medallions representing the five branches of the military.
Three flag poles stand tall behind the brick wall. The center American flag pole is 35 feet high, with two 30-foot flag poles representing the State of New York and Orleans County standing on either side. The memorial is respectfully lit from dusk to dawn.
Black granite engraved bricks border the memorial sidewalk in honor of veterans who are currently serving, who have served, who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, or in appreciation of all veterans. Those bricks were sold for $100 each.
The centerpiece of the memorial is a black granite stone that previously stood in front of the Kendall Town Hall and was dedicated to Kendall residents who have served.
Scouts and community members stand and salute while the Honor Guard carries the American flag near the beginning of the dedication ceremony for the war memorial today. About 500 people attended the dedication.
Barb Flow, a member of the Kendall Town Board, takes a photo of three of the bricks along the walkway. Her family bought memorial bricks for her late father, Albert Haseley who served in World War II; her son, Sgt. Vincent Flow IV of the Army, who was deployed in 2008 to Afghanistan; and her late father-in-law, Vincent James Flow Jr., who served in World War II.
Flow said she likes how the brick line the edge of the walkway so people shouldn't be stepping on the names of the soldiers.
The Honor Guard walks down the walkway, which is lined with bricks. The soldiers include from left: Malcolm Misere, Brian Kizer and Luke Rath. Luke is the older brother of Noah Rath, one of the scout's who spearheaded the project.
The Scouts thank the community for supporting the project. The Scouts include, from left: Jayden Pieniaszek, Noah Rath, Brian Shaw and Ryan Barrett.
Today was a big day for Boy Scout Troop 94. The troop worked with the Town of Kendall, local businesses and other community members to create the Kendall War Memorial, a 4-phase Eagle Project honoring the armed forces of the United States.
The memorial is part of the Kendall Community Park on Kendall Road, across from the Kendall Elementary School.
The war memorial project is a joint effort by four Boy Scouts: Ryan Barrett, Jayden Pieniazek, Noah Rath and Brian Shaw, each working to become an Eagle Scout. Barrett, a freshman at Nazareth College, has earned Scout's highest rank while the three others are getting close.
A marker on the brick wall commemorates the efforts of the four Boy Scouts.
Ryan Barrett led the first phase, which included putting in the foundation for the wall, a stone memorial and three flag poles. Two of the poles are 30 feet high and one for the American flag is 35 feet.
Jayden Pieniaszek led the second phase which includes construction of the brick wall, which is 39 feet long, 3 ½ feet wide and 4 feet tall.
Noah Rath headed up phase three which includes the medallions for each five branches of military. Rath also had the electricity set up so the memorial and sidewalk can be lighted up at night.
Brian Shaw coordinated phase four which includes final grading and planting of cedar trees behind the memorial, which provides a buffer for the neighbors and also enhances the site. Shaw also led the work for the plaques on the memorial for the different wars where Kendall soldiers served.
State Assemblyman Steve Hawley, R-Batavia, speaks during the dedication ceremony. He paid for the flag pole that carries the New York State flag. He did that in memory of his father, the late R. Stephen Hawley who served in World War II.
The Kendall Lions Club and the VFW Lincoln Post 1483 in Medina also paid for flag poles. The VFW paid for the pole in honor of Duke Sevenski.
Assemblyman Hawley praised the teamwork by the Scouts in creating the memorial.
Hawley said he has led 12 Patriot Trips to take local veterans and their families to memorial in Washington, D.C. and the Gettysburg. About 1,500 people have attended those trips, which were originally the idea of the Mike Paduchak, a Kendall resident and WWII veteran.
Now local residents can come to the new Kendall War Memorial to reflect on the service of veterans.
Lori Cyr leads the Kendall Community Band, which played several patriotic songs for the dedication.
The Kendall High School group, Vocal Effect, also performed and sang, "Anthem."
The four Scouts remove the cover on a bench by the memorial. The bench includes a quote by Joseph Campbell: "A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself."
The Scouts raise an American flag and a flag of Prisons of War and soldiers Missing In Action. About 20 members of the Patriot Guard Riders attended the dedication. They salute while the flags are raised.
Wilma Lemcke, a Kendall graduate, leads the group in singing, "God Bless America."
Tony Cammarata, the Kendall town supervisor, said the war memorial is a great addition for the community.
"This memorial is dedicated to service members from all walks of life," Cammarata said. "But they shared several fundamental qualities. They possessed courage, pride, determination, selflessness, dedication to duty and integrity — all the qualities needed to serve a cause larger than one's self."
"This remarkable memorial would not be possible without these four Eagle Scouts. Because of them we can, from today and going forward, have a lasting tribute to all those who have served. From the soldiers that shivered and starved through the winter at Valley Forge to the doughboys crouched in the muddy trenches of France to the platoon who patrolled the hazy jungles of Vietnam and the young man or woman patrolling the mountains of Afghanistan, we remember and never forget them."
Cammarata thanked the Scouts for their vision with the project and seeing it to completion.
"Our gathering today is the beginning of one small spark that ignites a flame of pride, for the people of Kendall and across our great country."
Orleans County Legislature Chairwoman Lynne Johnson presented certificates of commendation to the scouts.
She quoted the late U.S. President Gerald Ford, who an Eagle Scout. "The three great principles which Scouting provides – self-discipline, teamwork, and moral and patriotic values – are the basic building blocks of leadership," Ford said. "I applaud the Scouting program for continuing to emphasize them."


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Mumomatei Clients
Providing Help and Hope Through Missions and Ministry
About Us
Our vision is to provide in the areas of evangelism, education, and health through ministry and discipleship, quality primary education, work and job skills, health education, and medical clinics.
Currently Hope Africa Ministries, Inc. is working with two ministries in Kenya: Hope Educational Centre—a private, Christian primary school in the rural and impoverished area of Sakwa/Kisii, and Mumomatei Foundation—a home-based care ministry that serves HIV+ people in Nairobi, primarily in the Mathare and Dandora slums. By partnering with these ministries, Hope Africa Ministries, Inc. provides support, encouragement, volunteer time, occasional financial support, materials and/or equipment.
Make a lasting impact on children, families and entire communities in Africa.
Get involved and provide financial support to help with teacher support, school supplies, needy students, building projects, medicines, home businesses, food, or other needs.
Here are just a few ways to reach out and become involved in what God has planned for Hope Africa Ministries, Inc.
> Become a Prayer Partner
> Share with your family, friends, groups, and/or church about the ministry.
> Contact us about our greatest current need. Have an event or fundraiser to meet a need.
> Become a volunteer. Share your passion and knowledge hands-on with those we serve and minister. Plan a team or solo trip to work with the ministry--we'll help.
Hope Africa Ministries, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to spreading the love and good news of Jesus Christ through quality Christian education; compassionate service and encouragement to the sick and needy; empowerment projects; and community programs such as health clinics or seminars, teacher trainings, church trainings or seminars, and crusades. It is our desire to "Go into all the world and preach the gospel" and to minister to the "least of these my brethren."


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Q&A from August 2014 Webinar
Our most recent home improvement webinar "8 Key Ingredients of a Successful Canvassing Program…Revealed!" was a hit, and as a result we will be concentrating a large portion of our Profitability Summit on this topic.
Here are responses to some of the questions that were not covered during the program.
Q: How do we hire the right people starting with the right canvassing manager?
A: Start with a simple premise – – generally what are you looking for is:
- Someone who can do the job (history/experience).
- Someone who will do the job (behavior/adaptability to the language of canvassing).
- Someone who fits the organization (structure/performance required).
We utilize a behavioral profile simply administered which enables us to determine if the applicant has the behavior to do what we ask to be done, how they react to structure and stress, and whether they are adaptable to following a script. If you're going to work with a "crew" you need someone who has a background and history that fits and also the discipline that is required.
Q: Last year we heard you say that canvassers should not set their own appointments but call into the office. We tried it, got a lot of push-back, and it didn't work. Can you explain why this is better and how it's supposed to work?
A: The push-back usually comes from the fact that it's different from what they have been doing in the past, and change requires patience. It is the canvasser's role to stimulate the prospect to the point of approval. It is the responsibility of someone in the call department to make sure the appointment is set by a standard required by the company. The call center should have a "log" of what dates/days and times are available.
Q: One of our owners says we can't use your profiles when we hire because it's illegal. Is that true?
A: We get this question frequently. A behavioral profile is not a test – – there is no pass or fail. It is not used as an instrument to disqualify. The instrument and the method we use examines behavior and that which is adaptable to your specific business. To our knowledge this is not excluded under EEOC regulations.
Q: When the canvasser calls into the office and goes over the questions you suggest with the homeowner, does the confirmer set the appointment on the spot by speaking with the homeowner then – – or do they call back later?
A: It's worth repeating, the canvasser's role is to present and sell the "value of the visit". The canvasser will have asked questions and taken appropriate notes. He should then turn the call over to the person in the call center whose job it is to confirm the requirements. The confirmer should create the appointment based on standards such as:
- Will all interested parties be present?
- Has sufficient interest been generated on the "value of the visit"
- Did the confirmer sets the appointment on one of the open time slots and on a day when a salesperson is available?
Q: What is the closing ratio of canvassed leads and can you please provide an actual suggested method of paying a canvasser?
A: This is covered in depth in the recording or our latest webinar – – but if you have any additional questions, contact us at 703.591.2490.
Q: Is pirating a current canvass crew advisable?
A: By pirating we assume you mean hiring those who are already working for others. The big issue is, how will you know they're efficient, well trained, or meet your requirements? Just because they are already canvassing doesn't make them a great prospect for your canvassing department. Canvassing crews often work best when they're trained by your system with your values and with your structured requirements. Frequently those who are pirated bring with them bad habits or a work ethic that met the requirements of the previous employer and may not meet yours.
Q: What type of manager or field leader should we look for?
A: It should be someone who understands the canvassing role and has an abundance of history interacting with people. The knowledge of the task has to be coupled with discipline. The manager or field leader you hire should be willing to go through your basic training then work in the field as a canvasser to show the merits of their ability before they are officially offered the job.


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New Jersey is home to many ambitious and talented women who juggle family, career, and home. A select few of these women are also extremely busy building their own companies to help better manage the balance of work and family. At NJMOM, we want to highlight these extraordinary women who build businesses in New Jersey, and learn the secret to their success.
Founder & Owner of Bee You Kids Yoga Studio
& NJMOMpreneur: Maura Bradley
As the mother of three children (now ages 8, 12, and 14), Maura Bradley, founder and owner of Bee You Kids Yoga Studio, began to notice her little ones were experiencing many of the same struggles that adults also experience: anxiety, stress, and sleeping issues. After considering how yoga had helped her curb these same problems in her own life, she realized that children could benefit from practicing yoga just the same as adults. Although, Maura's training in yoga instruction did not begin with teaching kids; she was initially certified as a Yoga for Cancer Teacher with the intent to volunteer her time and skills. Today, Maura has turned her passion for giving back into a new business – the first kids-only yoga studio in Monmouth County, Bee You Kids Yoga Studio. NJMOM had the pleasure of learning how Maura's own children sparked her interest in yoga for kids, the shyness she overcame before ultimately teaching over 75 children per week, plus her family's favorite things to do around New Jersey in their free time.
NJMOM: What do you offer to your clients and how is it different than other professionals in your field?
Maura: I am the founder and owner of Bee You Kids Yoga Studio in Manasquan, New Jersey. My studio offers yoga and mindfulness classes to kids ages 6 weeks to 18 years old. What makes my studio different than others is that it is a kids-only studio. Bee You Yoga was the very first kids-only studio to open in Monmouth County, and I think it is a very special thing for the kids to have a space they feel is their own.
NJMOM: What inspired you to get into your line of work?
Maura: My family, and specifically my kids, inspired me. I have three children ages 14, 12, and 8, and to watch them struggle with anxiety, stress, and sleep issues at such young ages was really a wake up call for me. Yoga has been such a help to me in my life that I realized our kids could really benefit from learning the tools yoga can offer at a young age.
NJMOM: What is your favorite part about your business?
Maura: My favorite part about my business are the kids and families I get to meet.
To hear from the parents how their kids are incorporating what they've learned from us outside the class, makes me know we are planting seeds and giving these children tools they can use the rest of their lives.
NJMOM: What is your background in your business expertise?
Maura: I completed my 200-hour yoga teacher training with YogaWorks. After that I went on to study with Tari Prinster in New York City, and completed Levels 1 & 2 of Yoga for Cancer Teacher Training.
After years of working with cancer patients, I was introduced to kids yoga while teaching at a summer camp for children affected by cancer. This was such an amazing experience for me that I decided to enroll in the Little Flower Yoga kids teacher training immediately. I have since completed all 3 levels of the LFY training, and hold my 95-hour children's yoga teacher certification.
I have taught hundreds of children in weekly classes, summer camps, preschool programs, after school enrichments, and specialty workshops. Currently, I teach kids and family yoga classes at my studio, Bee You Yoga in Manasquan, New Jersey, and in schools throughout Monmouth County, New Jersey.
NJMOM: What are you most proud of in your career?
Maura: I am most proud of the feeling that I am making a difference with kids. When I hear from parents that their child is doing better in school, or their anxiety is better because of coming to class, it fills me with so much gratitude for this practice and my ability to be able to share it.
NJMOM: What is something few people know about you?
Maura: Few people know that I am very shy. When I initially began my 200-hour teacher training, I did it with the intention of volunteering and working with those affected by cancer. I never had any intentions of teaching adults or children. Yet here I am, running my own studio, teaching over 75 kids per week and facilitating my own teacher trainings for adults. I believe the universe definitely has a plan for each of us and we may not know what that plan is, but just trust in the process.
NJMOM: What can we expect from you for the rest of 2017?
Maura: Personally, I am looking forward to the holiday season and spending time with my family and extended family. This is my favorite time of the year and it so special to my kids and husband, and I love that we get this time together celebrating our own traditions. Professionally, I have two more teacher trainings coming up at the studio. The first one is "Learn to Teach Yoga to Kids with Special Needs." This is an amazing opportunity for anyone to learn to work with kids with special needs. You do not need to be a yoga instructor to take this training. The second training is "Learn to Teach Yoga to Kids Ages 2-7 Years Old," which is the foundation training for my Bee You Yoga teacher training and a great beginner course for anyone looking to share yoga with kids (parents, teachers, caregivers, PTs, OTs, etc). I also have fun events planned for the kids at the studio, "School's Out" camp in November and "Drop, Shop & OM" camp in December.
NJMOM: What charities are you most passionate about?
Maura: There are so many charities that I love, but two that are near to my heart are Mary's Place by the Sea and You Cannot be Replaced. I've held donation classes for each in the past and would love to continue to fundraise for them in 2018.
NJMOM: Who is your role model?
Maura: My mom is definitely my role model; she was the strongest woman I ever met. I don't think I realized how strong she was until I was an adult and she passed away. My mother never shared her struggles or worries with us as kids; she put on a brave face and got things done. She taught me to work hard, to never give up, and to be kind. She was also really funny!
NJMOM: What is the best piece of advice your mom ever gave to you?
Maura: My mom always said, "When you are invited to someone's house for dinner, always ring the doorbell with your elbow." (Translation: do not show up empty handed.)
NJMOM: Do you have a favorite quote you live by?
Maura: "Be kind and always tell the truth." This is so important to me because it is what I truly feel is missing in our world today – basic human kindness. I think it is important to teach our kids about kindness every single day. Also, to always tell the truth because more often than not, people get in to trouble when they are lying. Most of the time, whatever it is they are lying about isn't even a big deal or bad, it's the cover up that causes the problems. I tell my own kids that they will never get in trouble for telling us the truth.
NJMOM: What are your favorite things to do in New Jersey with your family?
Maura: My favorite thing to do in New Jersey with my family (and I think they would all agree 100% on this) is our annual vacation to Sea Isle City. I was born and raised in New York and my family (my father and his two sisters, my aunts) have been going to Sea Isle every August since I was 11 months old. This year makes 47 years for me! My husband jumped in on the tradition when we started dating, and now we take our kids, my siblings and their kids, too. Between all the family, aunts, cousins, we have between 40 to 50 people there each summer for one to two weeks, and it is the best!
NJMOM: What is the best part about being a mom for you?
Maura: The best part of being a mom is watching my kids grow up into pretty cool people. They are each so unique in their own ways and they each make us so proud. I definitely miss the days when they were little, but I'm loving the people they are becoming and cannot wait to see where it leads them.
NJMOM: What are your favorite businesses in New Jersey?
Maura: This is a good one! My favorite stores are Anthropologie, Athleta, Blue Mercury, Whole Foods, Katherines, and Waterlily. Our favorite kids activities are yoga (of course!), going to the beach, libraries, and playing sports. Our favorite restaurants are Shipwreck Grill, Remington's, and Playa Bowls, plus my favorite coffee shops are Green Planet, Rook, and Starbucks. I love them all!
NJMOM: Where do you reside and vacation in New Jersey?
Maura: I live in Manasquan and love it! My husband and I moved here almost 14 years ago and it is a wonderful place to raise your kids. We are in walking distance to town, just a bike ride to the beach, and close to all their schools and activities. As far as vacation, I feel like living in Manasquan is like a permanent vacation because there is always so much to do and my family comes down alot from New York and Connecticut to visit.
NJMOM: What advice might you have for a fellow NJMOMpreneur who is just starting out?
Maura: Do your homework to make sure there is a need for what you are offering. Have a plan: what is it you want to do, why do you want to do it, where do you see yourself and your business in one year, three years, five years? Also, where is your family in all of it? I think as an NJMOMpreneur it is also very important to figure out if this is the right time for you and for your family to be starting your business.
NJMOM: Anything else you'd like to tell moms in New Jersey?
Please stop in for a complimentary kids yoga class. Just tell us NJMOM sent you!
To learn more about Bee You Yoga, visit their website and follow along on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.


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New president brings changes to Student Senate
October 9, 2008
The UW-River Falls Student Senate welcomed new president Cindy Bendix this year to lead the non-partisan organization, introducing new changes and improvements for the pro-active and respected committee.
The Student Senate is a 25-member organization that dedicates their time and effort to improving and utilizing the needs and wants of the student body.
According to the UWRF Web site, the Student Senate "will advocate the issues that promote continued quality, excellence and affordability at our school. It is the goal of Senate to provide students with opportunities to improve their lives on academic, personal and social levels; furthermore, we hope to empower students with the resources necessary for them to advance in their education."
"The Senate is very dedicated to our students," Bendix said.
Each affiliate elected to the Student Senate belongs to one or more of the six committees that make up the Senate. The individual committees confront issues from athletics and parking to faculty welfare and the University's budget.
As each potential budget adjustment or event alteration is brought forth to the Senate, Bendix holds the power of the room at the front of the large square table.
As Bendix begins her fifth meeting as president of the Student Senate, the absence of a typical president or experience goes unnoticed.
"I think she's doing a great job," Nikki Shonoiki, the director of Diversity and Women's Initiative, said. "She keeps things in order and is on top of everything, which is great." Bendix, a junior, is majoring in mass communications and has only spent one previous semester on the Student Senate as the director of the Leadership and Development Programming Board and was also involved in the Weeks of Welcome program her freshman year.
Once Bendix was persuaded by a friend to join the Senate, she then realized just how much change the Student Senate can do to better the campus.
"Once I saw the changes we can make, I became so intrigued," Bendix said.
With the leadership of Bendix, and the respect of the fellow committee members, each weekly meeting, sometimes reaching three hours in length, focuses on the main goals of the Student Senate.
"We actually have several goals. The first goal is to let students know that any problem, any concern brought up to the Senate, we face," Bendix said. "Any student can make a motion, as long as they have the support of one Senate member."
Among the many issues the Student Senate faces, student fees are at the top of the list. "How to spend student fees, which are extra fees other than tuition and room and board, is always a concern," sophomore Sen. Linda Abel said.
Bendix expressed high enthusiasm towards the creation of Ad-Hoc, a new committee that will address the school budget in a whole new manner.
"The Ad-Hoc committee will have four members of the Student Senate and four members of the Leadership Development Programming Board. Ad-Hoc will address the budget, assess and fix issues, fix paper work and look at other Wisconsin schools to see how they deal with their budget," Bendix said.
According to Bendix, the LDBP decides how the student fees should be divided among all the organizations, events and clubs on campus. The LDBP then presents the budget plan to the Student Senate during the spring semester, where they either agree or disagree on the plan. With long hours full of conflicting ideas and financial issues, Ad-Hoc will bring the two groups together where they can work as one and create a well-balanced and fair budget for all students.
According to Bendix, the Student Senate faces weekly issues, many being brought to the attention of the Senate on a regular basis.
"The renovation of Cascade and the parking on Cascade is always a problem. Dining Services and the hours for transfers students seems to come up a lot," Bendix said. In order for the Student Senate to achieve any goal or to make any alterations, there has to be support from not only the campus but from the faculty and staff who approve those changes.
"We have a lot of support, I know I can go to the chancellor at anytime," Bendix said. According to Bendix, without the support and personal-availability of the chancellor and staff on campus, the Student Senate would not be able to carry out their annual safety walk, the event-packed Family Day, and any other changes made or events sponsored in the past by the Student Senate.
Even though Bendix is new to the position of president of the Student Senate, the long history of the organization has implicated many changes to the life of a student."Last year was a successful year for us, we had several successful events that brought awareness and education to the campus body which is one of the charges of the committee," Shonoiki said. "Last year we passed differential tuition which hadn't been done at our University in a while."
With the school year in full swing, the Student Senate's doors are always open, which continues the yearly success of the organization.
"We are always a resource for them," Bendix said. "It's the only place the average student can come to for problems."
According to Abel, the Student Senate will concentrate this year on preserving the excellence of the campus.
"We just hope to maintain the nice quality of life for students," Abel said. "To go smoothly, justify, and not change, but maintain."


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The name Darpahaadarpada comprises of 15 characters and is a Boy's name. The meaning of this name is who destroys pride, arrogance, and the name rashi or sign is Cancer. The name nakshatra for Aabhaa is Pushyami Nakshatra. Natives with the name Darpahaadarpada has the Numerology Namank or Destiny Number is 8. The Destiny Number helps you understand your lucky number and how it can alter your life in a positive manner.
Name: Darpahaadarpada Length: 15 Gender: Boy Name Meaning: who destroys pride, arrogance Numerology Namank (Destiny Number): Darpahaadarpada's Namank or Destiny Number is 8. Name Rasi: Cancer* Name Nakshstra: Pushyami* Note: *Rasi and Nakshatra are approximate calculated using sounds.
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Michael with Neo (left), Fulisha (middle), and Lesedi (right) at St. Martin de Porres School
My Lil Sis Neo
While I have never been active on online dating sites or a frequent poster on social media, I met my "sister" through Facebook. Over the past two years, I have had the honor of traveling to Soweto, South Africa through my former high school, Bellarmine College Preparatory–an all-male Jesuit, Catholic high school. During my first trip in 2014, I spent a week living at St. Martin de Porres Parish and School. Whether it was organized events between Bellarmine and St. Martin students or street soccer games, I had only been able to develop close relationships with the young men of the community. After arriving back home after my trip, I felt the desire to continue my relationships with my friends in Soweto, and so as soon as I had access to internet, I logged onto Facebook and messaged my South African friends.
After several months of continued conversation and deeper dialogue, I felt that something was missing. None of my South African Facebook friends were women. As the product of single-sex education, I found this to be disturbing, especially as I began to question the perspective of my own masculinity. As a result, my friend Dumisani introduced to his good friend and classmate at St. Martin, Neo. We soon started chatting online and questions about the struggles of high school exams led to insights on being a woman growing up in Soweto. Together, our discussions wrote several new verses in our own philosophical creeds of life. In a family of only one older brother, Neo became my "lil sis." In a household of only one younger sister, I became Neo's "big bro."
A few months after first meeting Neo, I found out that I would be returning to South Africa in June of 2015 to lead the next group of Bellarmine students. Not only did this mean that I would get to dive deeper into the Soweto narrative, but it also meant that I would finally get to meet Neo in person.
As I took my first steps back onto Soweto's tangy soil, Neo greeted me with a hug of recognition. Hours of conversations online made our first meeting seem like a homecoming between brother and sister. Throughout the week, we continued our discussions of life in person, and our presence in the physical setting of Soweto allowed me to more fully grasp some of Neo's struggles and challenges. While physical presence allowed me to witness some of the gritty reality that constitutes Neo's daily life, one week in Soweto was not enough. Questions of life soon transitioned into questions of when we will see each other again. This past week that question was answered as I reunited with Neo again in Soweto.
Traveling to Soweto for six weeks as a part of The Simunye Project has given me the freedom of time to invest psychic energy into those who give me life. Rather than squeezing in time during the tight itinerary of a high school immersion trip, I now had the time and energy to be present to those around me. So, I spent an entire afternoon catching up with Neo and picking up where our conversations had left off. I recorded part of the conversation so that I could share the story of my South African sister.
On Being A Woman in Soweto
Throughout my last visit to Soweto and ongoing conversations with Neo, issues of gender had often been a recurring theme. After asking Neo about her experience of being a woman in Soweto, she said, "When you come from an underprivileged background, especially when you are a girl, elderly men tend to take advantage of you. There is this thing called blessers, and if you're a woman, you are a blessee. So they kind of bless you…they buy you expensive things like clothes, jewelry, and as a result, you have to have sex with them for their money because they are taking advantage of who you are and where you come from. I think it's really difficult to be a young woman in South Africa as a whole. You have to stand your ground to move on and have a future for yourself." Upon diving deeper into the role of a blesser, Neo noted that "the blesser is probably 40, 50–something like that–and you find the girl is probably 16, 20. The age difference is huge. At first, they were called sugar daddies, and now they are called blessers. They think a 'blesser' is more attractive."
Hearing Neo's explanation of a blesser frightened me. Had I met a blesser or blessee? How do I stand by my friend in a society filled with abuse and corruption? I was afraid to ask these questions, but Neo continued… "I think I've been through a lot. I've gone through stuff that someone my age could not manage to go through and end up where I am. Through what I have been through and what has happened in my life, I think by now, I should have been pregnant or had like 3, 4, 5 babies by now if it wasn't for my mom or the people around me–the support. I wouldn't be who I am now. I wouldn't know what I want in the future. Just looking at life in a different way…" After saying this, Neo looked at the smoggy Soweto sky, closed her eyes, and said, "For the fact that I've been through a lot and I've learned through this process, I think people can relate to my story because many have similar situations at home."
Hearing these parts of Neo's story made me feel less like a big brother and more like a small child. Here I was, devastated and in need of an explanation of the evils that had tortured someone so close to me. I felt trapped. I was at a loss and an emotionally unstable state, yet Neo was there to comfort me. Questions of why did this happen and how can I help turned into Neo offering insights of how she can help me grow as a man. She said, "You don't have to be a father just to your biological children, you just have to be a father to everybody–just be a responsible man, respect other people. A lot of men abuse their power…all the time." With this in mind, she went on to explain her own vision of women. "There are a bunch of women who have made a difference in their lives without men ruling them. I think that should be used to change how they think. There are some women out there who are doing it, who are making it, who are successful." In bringing light to the effects of hypermasculinity on women, Neo emphasized that women "are humans too. They have feelings too. They have their own dreams and future. You just can't take advantage of that. I have my own mind, I have my own ideas, I can do whatever I want."
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On Being A Role Model
While Neo often calls me big bro, she is an older sister herself. As I struggled to comprehend how Neo's experiences growing up in Soweto affected my relationship with her, she told me that she had similar feelings with regard to her younger sister. On the topic of being an older sister, Neo explained, "It's cool and not cool at the same time…because I mean you can't go everywhere with your little sister or little brother. They see all sorts of things out there and the only way you can help them to not fall for these things is to talk to them about them, teach them, and avoid them yourself so you can be a good example for them. It's cool and not cool."
While noting the importance of being a strong role model, Neo also noted how the pressures of daily life can often lead to a misunderstanding of her own life story. Neo told me, "I was doing grade 10 and because I failed grade 10, I had to repeat it again. So when I failed, my cousin–we were both in grade 10–proceeded to the next grade and was like 'Yeah you failed because you were playing and you didn't listen and this, this, and that.' I was like 'How do you know I was playing? Maybe I was stressed or you're not helping me or I'm not getting enough support from you?' She did not consider such things. It's such things that feel like pressure." With this in mind, Neo emphasized that in a relationship, she looks for "trust and honesty–someone who is always there when you need. Someone you can talk to openly without fear of being judged. Someone who is just a pillar of your strength. A relationship is more like a connection or bond two people have."
As she shivered and wrapped herself in a large, encompassing blanket to protect her from the cold Soweto breeze, Neo emanated strength that captured me in a state of awe. Upon asking her about her strength, Neo said, "I think I get the strength from my past experiences. I don't want what happened to happen again, so by all means, I try to avoid things and I try to not react negatively. I try to be happy and remain positive to avoid conflict. It can be easy to forgive, but it is very hard to forget. The minute you think about whatever it is that happened, the emotions come back again, and the best way for me is to pray about it and to be around people where I can share my story. For me, it's about having a strong support system to move on from the past."
The Johannesburg Misunderstanding
Neo's insights on strength in the midst of misunderstanding reminded me of my own experiences in Johannesburg earlier that week. While walking in the streets of downtown Johannesburg with Drew and our friend Dumisani, I had been called "China" three times within our first three blocks of walking. One person even suggested that I "go back to China" as I crossed a jammed intersection. As a half-Filipino, I was angered that these people would categorize me under one group without understanding my own story. As exotic stares jabbed from all around, I thought of my mother–a petite Filipina woman–and how frightened I would feel walking this same street with her.
One person in particular stood out to me. While curbed on the sidewalk, a young boy in a taxi stuck his head out of the car's window and yelled "China!" at me. He then pulled the sides of his eyelids with his slim fingers to mock my Asian genes. After I heard this, I unconsciously stood taller, broadened my shoulders, enlarged my chest, and stared at him with clenched fists. The boy's eyelids widened as he looked in fear. He quickly hid back inside the taxi as it pulled away from the curb, escaping my anger. After looking back at Drew and Dumisani and seeing the concern on their face, I realized that while this young boy had overlooked my story, I had also overlooked his and portrayed violence as a reaction to this misunderstanding. Seeing the terror that I induced in his eyes made me realize the power that I carry in my identity and privilege.
Just as Neo's cousin failed to understand the struggles of her story in the midst of a stressful grade 10, the young boy and I had failed to understand the stories that characterize our identity. In the process, we merely dehumanized each other into a contest of inducing the greatest reaction.
On Inspiration
In recognizing the strength and composure of Neo's character, as contrasted with my own reactions in Johannesburg, I asked Neo about her sources of inspiration. She went on to explain that she draws inspiration from her mother because "she's a single mom and she doesn't work but I've managed to go from primary through high school with paying fees…I look up to her. I guess that's where I get the strength and everything. It's made me who I am today."
While growing up without a father has led to several personal challenges, Neo said that this experience made her value the role of mothers in her spheres of inspiration. "A lot of single mothers are inspirations to me. It's been challenging growing up with a single mother because the first few years after I was born, my dad was always there until the age of 7, when he disappeared out of nowhere. So I'm thinking to myself, 'What have I done wrong?' Because I do not deserve to not have a relationship with you if things are going wrong between him and my mom. I think I deserve you to be there for me emotionally, in every way possible. Why are you depriving me from having a relationship with you? It's been very difficult…until now. You know when it's your birthday, you wish for your dad to be there, buy you something. Okay, call you at least, even if he doesn't buy you anything. Being there means a lot. If you just living your own life out there, living as if you do not have a child…I don't even know if he thinks about me. I have all these questions…What did I do? What's going on with him? It's like now, I'm the one worrying about him, not knowing if he is worrying about me. It's been very difficult…I wish some day–one day–he will come back."
On Identity
As a sister, Neo has taught me what it means to be a brother and a father beyond just my biological kin. While hearing the scars of Neo's narrative left wounds in my own story, Neo reminded me of the role of identity in understanding one's story. She noted, "As a young woman in Soweto, in South Africa, as difficult as it is to grow up here with everything that's going on–violence, corruption, people criticizing, people not wanting to see a fellow black man or black woman being successful–if you know who you are, where you come from–if you know your identity–then you do not need anyone else to validate that. If you know who you are, it's very easy for you to go wherever you are in life to succeed by being who you are, making a difference in other people's lives. Identity is very important in one's life."
For Neo, being a woman in Soweto is a significant part of her identity. "The fact that I am a woman, it's for a reason. I'm able to do things that a man can't do. I give birth, I nurture, I love–not that men can't–but it's something that is a part of who I am. Being a woman is a big part of my identity. I'm here to bring warmth, love, and protection to anyone who needs it."
As brother and sister, South African and American, the mutuality of our relationship stems from our efforts to discover each other's story, such that the intersection of Neo and Michael is written as our story. As Neo says it, "At the end of the day, we are all one. It's a matter of celebrating who you are and being proud of who you are and where you come from. But at the end of the day, knowing that you live with people around you from different cultures of which you can learn from them and be one as well."
The Kota Cooks
After a hot afternoon of soccer, Drew, some local friends, and I decided to walk to a nearby street shop to purchase some kota, a local South African sandwich made of seasoned fries, meat, and melted cheese stuffed into a hollowed out loaf of bread–a truly rainbow sandwich. As two women prepared the kota, Drew and I began smiling and jumping out of excitement for our first taste of kasi food. As we waited in anticipation, we kept peeking through the kitchen window to witness the craft of kota cooking, and we eventually made eye-contact with the two women assembling our kota and smiled. Seeing our excitement, they smiled back at us and gave us a thumbs-up as they put the final touches on our afternoon delight.
Even though we didn't get to listen to the cooks' stories, Drew and I shared a single experience that celebrated identity rather than emphasizing differences. In doing so, maker of food became creator of joy, and purchaser of kota became celebrator of friendship. As Neo went on to articulate, "We are all unique. We are all here for a purpose. We all have different ways of viewing life. It's a purpose that God created us. It's for a purpose that we are here. It doesn't matter what race or where you come from, or what language you speak…We are all human. I am here to make a difference and to live my life to the fullest."
On The Future
During our last conversation in Soweto in June 2014, Neo told me to dream. She told me to dream that we would one day be back in Soweto together. As the shadows of night blanketed us in serenity, Neo told me about her latest dreams. She said, "I want to pursue a career in education because there is a shortage of teachers in South Africa. My dream is to become a teacher and once I become a teacher, I will be able to help young children–because I have a sister–so it will allow me to make a difference in South Africa and Africa as a whole. And then from that, my family will also benefit. I think they are kind of looking up to me to make a difference."
When I asked her what gave her hope to achieve that dream, she said, "Children. I love kids. They bring a lot of hope because one day I'm going to be able to make a difference in their lives. You know, I'm going to be able to give them something or an experience where they can learn from me. Something–I don't know what–but something that is going to make them happy as much as they will make me happy. Children give me happy because they are the future of our world."
The Complexity Of Our Stories
While I have developed a relationship with Neo so and call her my lil sis, I will still never fully understand her story. As she taught me though, acknowledging the complexity of her story as a whole is an expression of love, for the attempt to see her as a whole has led to a pursuit of understanding fostered through listening.
I have come to realize that shortening someone's identity can prevent them from living the life they are invited to live. As Neo taught me, this act can lead to violence, oppression, depression, and other detrimental effects. I hope that in actively seeking the stories of those we love, we can begin to share our own identity more definitively, such that we might begin to see our world the way God sees us. So, now I'm excited to discover who someone is by asking: What is your story? Who are you?
The Simunye Team is composed of Michael Bakan and Drew Descourouez.
Michael Bakan is a first-year student at Georgetown University, where he plans to study International Business and Marketing. Over the past two summers, he has traveled to Soweto, South Africa on an immersion trip through his former high school, Bellarmine College Preparatory. During these trips, Michael developed a passion for using graphic design and other forms of artwork to share the stories of his friends in Soweto, as they strive to create a better South Africa in a post-apartheid, post-Mandela world. He is excited to return to Soweto to strengthen the bonds of kinship with his South African friends and to share the voices of those who are not often heard but will play an integral role in our future.
Drew Descourouez is a first-year student at Santa Clara University. Drew traveled to Soweto, South Africa in 2014, on Bellarmine College Preparatory Immersion trip. He has since traveled to nine other countries around the world and developed a deep desire to connect cultures through storytelling and personal relationships. Drew is also passionate about youth empowerment and hopes to learn more from his friends in Soweto about how young people can take responsibility for a shared future in a globalized world.
Learn more about The Simunye Project at www.ignatiansolidarity.net/the-simunye-project