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Opinion – The Real St. Valentine's Day

Steve Taylor-Bryant looks at how we are getting Valentine's Day so wrong and offers some advice on gift buying...

The origins of Valentine's Day are shrouded in mystery and, let's face it, I am not the world's best historian. I will make this as factual as I can be bothered to and will attempt to spell the names of old people correctly. What you will see at the end of the article is that buying roses and chocolates and sweet cuddly bears is a farce and you really should add some darkness to your celebration with your loved one.

The Romans used to hold a party. It was to find wives and partners and was the called The Feast of Lupercalia. It saw drunk, naked Centurions sacrifice a dog and a goat before whipping the behinds of the woman they were attracted to with the hides of the animals that so graciously gave their lives for this bondage party. Now there is a night out you don't see advertised at your local Harvester.

Emperor Claudius II executed two men called Valentine on two separate February 14th's for being slightly too Christian for his liking. Their martyrdom was celebrated by Catholics as St. Valentine's Day, but you already had Valentine of Terni who had supposedly been beheaded by Emperor Aurelian for his religious leanings. Which one of these chaps is actually Saint Valentine is none of my concern. I learned during The Life of Brian you don't argue with the Romans.

Flip forward some centuries and we find Geoffrey Chaucer, he of the silly words in The Knight's Tale for those of you that don't read classic literature. He can be wholly blamed for bringing love into the equation, as he wrote his Parlement of Foules (Parliament of Fowls) to celebrate the engagement of Richard II and Anne of Bohemia. “For this was on St. Valentine's day/When every fowl cometh there to choose his mate”. Then a while later, not to be outdone by silly language, Shakespeare decided to launch a greeting card company during Hamlet. “To-Morrow is Saint Valentine's Day/All in the morning betime/And I a maid at your window/To be your Valentine” but in reality they played with each others skulls whilst Hallmark actually launched the ruining of men's wallets on February 14th 1913 with a Hallmark Holiday to mark the occasion of love.

So there we have it. A violent bondage filled ritual and some torture changed into love so now February 14th is a happy occasion. WRONG! Hallmark may have found a way of making money but the actual date of February 14th continued to be synonymous with tragedy.

The most famous is the St. Valentine's Day massacre on February 14th 1929. In a warehouse in Chicago five members of the North Side Gang and two other men were executed in a gangland mob hit by Al Capone's South Side gang.

The Germans' hope for winning the Second World War was a huge battleship named after Otto Von Bismark. It only managed one offensive before the Allies managed to sink it. It was launched to kill millions on February 14th 1939.

The Satanic Verses by Salman Rushdie caused a bit of a stir, with the author going into hiding after the Ayatollah issued a Fatwa (Death Sentence) on him. The date? February 14th.

In an era of High School Shootings another tragedy befell the United States on February 14th 2008 when Steven Kazmierczak entered Northern Illinois University with a bag full of weapons and opened fire before taking his own life. Six deaths and 21 injuries. Happy Valentine's Day.

So you see all this candy is wrong. Cuddly teddy bears with dopey faces is wrong. The billion cards declaring love for our partners because the 13th isn't good enough is wrong. The fact the United States is expected to spend $19.7 billion on this year's "day" is VERY wrong. We need darkness. I am in no way advocating violence but surely we can tone down the mush slightly and get back to the roots of the day before Chaucer et al decided to ruin the fun? So here we have it. My Disclaimer – I haven't asked TeamDreamCage for their input so you can't hold them responsible for the awesomeness I am about to produce) choice of gifts for St. Valentines Day. Enjoy your day and I love you all.

Show Steve some love on Twitter @STBwrites


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Artist Sees Joy in Shen Yun Use of Color

SAN FRANCISCO—Artist Patricia Rusich has been working on a piece including dance, and found inspiration in Shen Yun Performing Arts at the War Memorial Opera House in San Francisco, Jan. 11.

“It’s like almost every act has flowing silk and flowing fabric,” Ms. Rusich said of New York-based Shen Yun’s costumes. The flowing colors of the dancers’ costumes made Ms. Rusich think of her own piece, where flowing veils are meant to give audience members a sense of joy and movement.

The classical Chinese dance Ms. Rusich saw is nothing like her own work, she said, but she still drew ideas for her work, The Dance of Positivity being uplifted by Shen Yun.

Dance is part of human culture, as Shen Yun’s website states, and art is meant to uplift. Established in 2006, Shen Yun’s artists came from all around the globe to revive 5,000 years of Chinese civilization through the performing arts.

“I think as an artist, I see the whole set and the beauty of the set,” Ms. Rusich said.

Brilliant costumes and a digital background come together to take the audience on a journey through the dynasties, helping tell stories like the tale of Ne Zha and the dragon.

Ms. Rusich had been impressed seeing the digital backdrop in action during that particular piece, drawing ideas from the movement of the water and the dancers moving from screen to stage.

“I thought it was really impressive,” Ms. Rusich said. “I love the interaction of the video behind the stage and the merging of the graphics and the people.”

“I love them all,” Ms. Rusich said of the dances.

Reporting by Alex Ma and Catherine Yang

New York-based Shen Yun Performing Arts has four touring companies that perform simultaneously around the world. For more information, visit Shen Yun Performing Arts.

The Epoch Times considers Shen Yun Performing Arts the significant cultural event of our time. We have proudly covered audience reactions since Shen Yun’s inception in 2006.

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Children Eat Their Veggies When Parents Do

By Carrie Ciula,

By Carrie Ciula, Organic Lifestyle Magazine

With Kid Friendly Organic Healthy Recipes

In our convenience focused society, many kids are learning that it is quicker to open up a bag of chips then it is to take the time to wash off a piece of fruit.  By now, I’m certain that very few of us have not heard or read about how important it is to back off of the commercialized, processed, packaged fare and to get back to the fresh, Earth~produced foods that we are biologically designed to consume.

This past weekend, our family met up with a few friends for a picnic. One of the other kids began commenting on what my children were eating- claiming that veggies are “tasteless” and that he refuses to eat them unless they are fried. The whole conversation triggered the question in my mind:& how can we motivate kids to harmonize with and enjoy healthy eating habits? The following are a few simple strategies that I believe will help if your child isn’t so fond of the fresh stuff……………

Blend up a Fresh Fruit and Greens Smoothie.

Blending is an easy, fast and fun way to pack a lot of nutrition into one simple drink.

Begin by using your child’s favorite fruits and blend them with mild greens (spinach, lettuces, etc.) and a small amount of water to create a smoothie that is both palatable and nutritionally potent.  As your child acclimates to the taste- you can begin to branch out with different fruits and darker greens.  You can also use nut milks or fresh juice as a base for added nutrition.

If your child is having trouble ‘digging’ a particular fruit or veggie~ try making a dip to go along with it.  Dips are fun to eat and add a whole new dimension, taste~wise.  Examples-> almond butter, sunflower butter, blended fruit or chocolate dip (cold pressed oil, cocoa or carob powder, vanilla stevia, sea salt.)

‘Fun’ify’ Snacks

Pretend play with your child while eating…maybe you’re at a cocktail party- or eating with the Queen and King….use fancy cups and plates, cocktail umbrellas or reusable straws.  Create the dish to look like an animal or bug…remember thee ol’ ‘worms in the dirt’ recipe from our childhood?  FUN!  There are several great and easy-to-find online sites to stir up ideas.

Include a Colorful Salad With Dinner.

The way a meal looks is often just as important as how it tastes.  Use a variety of different veggies (and/or fruits) so that your salad will be colorful and visually appealing.  Try blending up your own dressing using apple cider vinegar or lemon, cold pressed oil, and fresh herbs.

Healthy Desserts!

Does your child likes ice cream?  Try making ice cream from coconut milk…or avocados and natural flavors/sweeteners.  Get creative with fruit by topping it with the above chocolate sauce or nut/seed based crumble…..or go for something equally as delightful, yet beyond simple- like apple slices, almond butter and cinnamon.  The possibilities really are endless.

Naturally, each above idea can be customized to your child’s unique tastes and preferences.  You’ll find it easier and easier to replace processed, packaged, nutrient~stripped concoctions with nutrient~rich, realfood…Enjoy!


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Americans Weigh-in on Ebola Outbreak: Quotes

Nothing comes out of this unit until it is noninfectious.

—Dr. Bruce Ribner, physician treating Ebola patient

This is the biggest and most complex Ebola outbreak in history. Far too many lives have been lost already.

— Dr. Thomas Frieden, director, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Every precaution is being taken to move the patients safely and securely … and to maintain strict isolation upon arrival in the United States.

— State Department statement

I just think it’s a blessing that we can help possibly make the infected person’s life a little more tolerable.

—Ashley Wheeler, resident of Atlanta

The U.S. must immediately stop all flights from EBOLA infected countries or the plague will start and spread inside our “borders.” Act fast!

Donald Trump via Twitter

Ignorance and hysteria around this virus inflame its spread and thwart the development of systems that have the potential to stop it. Among the incredible challenges in the response to the current outbreak include misinformation and rumor. Lack of common knowledge about how Ebola spreads is causing some of the people in affected regions at greatest risk to shun health authorities and to avoid reporting the disease. Silence, denial, and fear kill.

—Aiah A. Gbakima, Jean-Paul Gonzalez, and Nathan D. Wolfe are doctors working to counter infectious diseases around the world. (quoted from an opinion piece in Time magazine)


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Why Isn’t Tennis Part of the Commonwealth Games?

By Grant Jarvie, University of Edinburgh

Among those of us who follow the internal workings of the Commonwealth Games, eyebrows were raised when tennis was not included in the list of sports for Glasgow 2014.

Scotland has of course got great strength in tennis in the form of Andy Murray, Jamie Murray and Colin Fleming. If Glasgow was choosing which sports to include on the basis of what was likely to win Scotland the most medals, you might not have thought they would left tennis off the list.

Commonwealth Games host nations have to offer 17 sports, which are chosen from two separate lists – a core list and an options list. The 10 core sports are swimming, athletics, badminton, men’s boxing, hockey, women’s netball, lawn bowls, men’s rugby sevens, squash and weightlifting.

Glasgow 2014 represents the first time that the core list has been this large. For some of the previous events it was five, namely swimming, athletics, lawn bowls, rugby sevens and netball. To some extent this harks back to the days of the precursor 1911 Inter Empire Games, which consisted of four sports (athletics, swimming, boxing and wrestling) and nine events. The same sports plus rowing were competed for in 1930, when the first official event was renamed the British Empire Games (and held in Hamilton, Canada – after several more name changes, it became the Commonwealth Games in 1978).

Beyond the core sports, the options list includes 18 possibilities which range from archery to cycling to table tennis to taekwondo. Some such as billiards have never yet been chosen. Glasgow’s seven are cycling, gymnastics, judo, shooting, table tennis, triathlon and wrestling. As well as tennis, the federations for synchronised swimming and ten-pin bowling had to accept rejection too.

The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) approves which sports make the two lists, which have had to expand over the years as the number of sports has increased. Where it was six in 1930, it reached 10 in 1978 before finally reaching the current 17 in Manchester 2002. Only three sports have been ever-present: athletics, boxing and swimming.

The Sports Dogfight

The Commonwealth Games might only be considered the second or third most important general sports event for competing countries (always behind the Olympics, and behind the Winter Olympics for some too). But for the sports federations seeking to push their particular sport, making sure they are on at least the optional list and eventually the core list will be one of their top priorities.

Two things have made the battle for inclusion more intense in recent years. First is the fact that the games’ popularity has waned, meaning that the case for change has grown stronger, particularly towards sports that will convert into TV rights in a good number of countries.

Second is that the balance of power between countries has been shifting, tilting towards those in Asia in particular, which had not even hosted a games until Kuala Lumpur in 1998 (and Africa still has not). This power shift has strengthened the argument for including sports that are more popular in the East or the Pan-Asian Games. The new CGF President is from Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur represented the first major attempt to modernise the games, with a decision by the CGF to include team sports for the first time. This meant the arrival of cricket, hockey, women’s netball and men’s rugby sevens. Basketball was added for Melbourne 2006 (four team sports in total is currently the maximum permitted).

New Delhi was permitted to showcase kabaddi, a form of Indian wrestling, as a demonstration sport in 2010 and tennis was present in the 2010 Commonwealth Games.

The Big Three

Change still looks to be in the early stages, however. It is worth bearing in mind from the medal tables that in 91 years the same countries have dominated the top three positions (Australia, England and Canada). Certainly this does not reflect diversity, equality, development or indeed progress. Australia has topped the medal table in every games since 1930. The leading countries have hosted every games except Jamaica (1966), Kuala Lumpur (1998) and New Delhi (2010). And incidentally, all of the seven chairman/presidents of the CGF since 1930 have been men.

It is also worth pointing out that as well as the choice of sports, the individual sports federations have a hand in who competes because they set the qualifying standards for their sports. This is one reason why, looking at the Glasgow opening ceremony, Australia, Canada and England had larger teams than most of the other 71 nations and territories. Scotland’s team is its largest yet and comparable in size and range of sports covered.

As the CGF continues to wrestle with modernising the event, more change looks likely. Pointing the way might be an independent report from 2011 written on behalf of the CGF by the Australian consultancy Global Media and Sports.

The report acknowledges the declining popularity of the games and recommends some key changes, namely adding cycling, 20-20 cricket and triathlon to the core list in place of squash and lawn bowls, which would both become optional. There would then be an optional list of 11 and a new list of eight “less important” sports, which could also be chosen but in smaller proportions.

The report proposes to replace beach volleyball on the optional list with volleyball. Archery, canoeing, sailing, softball and ten-pin bowling have all been downgraded to less important. New arrivals (all on the less important list) are horse events, rugby league nines and football. Football is not given a higher billing for fear that it wouldn’t attract the stars, which has been an issue for Glasgow, most recently with Mo Farah’s withdrawal. The proposals have not yet been adopted, but we can be certain that the CGF will be thinking about them.

As for Andy Murray…

That glimpse of a possible future returns us to Glasgow and its tennis decision. There is certainly no bar to countries choosing sports that suit them. That was one reason why India had cricket on the programme in 2010, not to mention shooting and wrestling (and India collected the second-highest medal haul at its games – after Australia).

In mitigation to Glasgow, it had to make its decision on the sports offering seven years ago. While the Indians could reckon relatively far in advance that they would still be producing cricketers, Scotland’s current tennis stars were less advanced in their careers in 2007. Nonetheless, world tennis organisers let it be known at the time that they thought Glasgow was opting out of tennis because it was not a universally popular enough sport to secure the backing of enough CGF members. This tells you something about Commonwealth Games realpolitik for a smallish country like Scotland in the modern era.

On the other hand, Scotland is well on the way to beating its highest ever haul of 33 (from Melbourne 2006). Omitting tennis might not make any difference one way or the other. Scottish sport is in a good place and Scottish administrators are in positions of influence within the Commonwealth.The Conversation

Grant receives funding from UK research councils and both Scottish and UK governments. He is affiliated with Sportscotland. He is fully employed by the University of Edinburgh. This article is written in his capacity as Chair of Sport at the University of Edinburgh where he leads Edinburgh Sports Research. This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.


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American Ramp Systems
Franchise Business Opportunity

image of free information on buying a franchise business

If you are looking for information on the American Ramp Systems franchise business opportunity, wheel chair ramp franchises or American Ramp Systems franchising, then you have come to the right place.

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Imagine your wheelchair-bound mother is moving in with you. Let's say you have 6 steep steps to get to the front door. Quick, think of a place in your city where you can get a wheelchair ramp.

Start your own AmRamp™ franchise and help physically disabled people enjoy more freedom and control over their lives.

Time's up.

Our point? The business of renting and selling wheelchair ramps is highly specialized and the product is continuously in demand, yet there are hardly any resources for those in need. Few resources means practically no competition.

If you are thinking about buying a franchise, think wisely. Would you choose to run a fast food service franchise while Americans are rapidly becoming more aware of eating healthier? What if you end up running an employment agency franchise during a recession and no companies are hiring?

No matter what happens, however, people will always need to be able to access their homes, businesses, and places of worship. Plus, that customer base is growing by the year. Wheelchair ramps are always in demand, and the demand will be growing. It is projected that by 2010, 21.1% of the population will be over 85.

We have been in the business for over 20 years, and have developed a new, low-cost AmRamp System™, combining our high-quality, versatile wheelchair ramps with a specially organized network of franchises. Join our family and begin changing the face of your city by making it more welcoming and accessible to everyone, while also making a great living for yourself.

"I've seen first-hand the look of relief and joy on the faces of wheelchair-bound people who are able to move more freely simply because a ramp has been installed."
Charles Brown, Franchisee, Austin TX

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Japanese Maple Tree

Japanese Maple Tree (3L Pot)

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Potted Japanese Maple Tree - Description

  • Potted Japanese Maple Tree
  • Acer Palmatum 'Atropurpureum'
  • Variety: Atropurpureum
  • Small Garden Tree
  • Suits Small to Medium Sized Garden
  • Plant Size
    • Height: 60 - 80cm
    • Girth: 4cm
  • Containerised (Potted)
  • Comes in 3 Litre Pot

Potted Japanese Maple Tree - Characteristics

  • Small garden tree
  • Dome shaped, arching canopy
  • Mature size: 6m to 8m spread & height
    • If allowed to grow to full maturity
    • Can be maintained at smaller size either
  • Superb tree with bright red foliage
  • Deciduous tree, they loose their leaves in Winter
  • Foliage: Palmate leaf, slightly serrated margins
  • Growth rate: Slow
  • Frost hardy

Potted Japanese Maple Tree - Uses

  • Ornamental garden tree
  • Ideal in any small or medium size garden
  • Suited to front gardens also
  • Plant in a modern, contemporary garden or Japanese style garden
  • Grown for their for their architectural form & habit
  • Offers a beautiful focal point in any garden
  • Some companion plants for Japanese maple include Hostas, Ophiopogons, Ferns, Azalea & Blue Junipers

Potted Japanese Maple Tree - Planting Instructions

Planting Time

  • Potted trees can planted all year round
  • Avoid frosty conditions, where the ground is frozen

Positioning Trees

  • Japanese Maple require a sheltered spot
  • Plant where they are not exposed to wind
  • Provide some shading
  • They do not like full sun - Best in dappled shade
  • Soil can be well drained, light or heavy clay
  • Happy in acidic or neutral to alkaline soils
  • When planting, hold plants at ground level & back fill the top soil
  • Ensure each plant is straight & soil is compacted in around it's root ball
  • Level off the soil around the plants
  • Support with bamboo cane for first 2 years

After Care

  • Soak pot for approx. 10 minutes before planting
  • Water again after planting
  • If dry weather persists, water every 2 days
  • Weeding is also essential - especially bind weed which can quickly smoother a young tree
  • Keep grass growth away from the base of trees to ensure a faster growth rate
  • Avoid strimming around the base of trees
  • Japanese Maples do not require any pruning or training
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Very happy with the condition and size of this lovely acer. Obviously very well cared for before it reached me. Also great value for money.

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MESA, Ariz. — Steve Pearce will start the season on the injured list for the Boston Red Sox.

The 2018 World Series MVP exited an exhibition game last weekend due to discomfort in his left calf. Pearce, a right-handed batter, normally platoons with lefty-hitting Mitch Moreland at first base. But the Red Sox will begin defense of their championship Thursday in Seattle without Pearce.

"We have to do it that way," manager Alex Cora said Monday night. "It makes sense for us, it makes sense for him. He should be back sooner rather than later but he won't be ready for Seattle, so why take a chance?"

Sam Travis will likely make the team and take Pearce's spot on the opening-day roster.

"He's been swinging the bat, he plays first, he's a right-handed hitter," Cora said. "It seems like we're going to face a lot of lefties on the West Coast. Having a right-handed bat would help us out."

Pearce was acquired from Toronto in a trade last June and batted a combined .284 with 11 homers, 42 RBIs and an .890 OPS in 76 games with the Blue Jays and Red Sox last season. He was 4 for 12 (.333) with three homers, eight RBIs and a 1.167 OPS in the World Series victory against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Pearce became a free agent and re-signed with Boston for one year and $6.25 million.

Boston nearly lost another player to a much more serious injury when pitcher Rick Porcello was hit in the head by a line drive during Monday night's 3-2 exhibition loss to the Chicago Cubs.

Willson Contreras hit a liner that deflected off Porcello's head in the second inning. Porcello, however, was checked by an athletic trainer, threw a few warmup pitches and stayed in the game.

Cora was doubtful at first about keeping Porcello in the game. The right-hander told the trainer to touch his head where the ball hit him.

"He barked like a dog and scared the living whatever out of me," said Cora, who jumped off the mound. "I told him, 'Now I'm going to be on TV for the rest of my career for the wrong reasons.'"

Porcello was able to laugh about the play after his outing.

"It ricocheted," he said. "I got up, I felt fine, I wasn't wobbly or dizzy or anything like that. I was fine."

In his final tuneup for the regular season, Porcello gave up two runs and four hits over four innings, including a solo homer to opposing pitcher Cole Hamels in the third.

"He's tough," Hamels said. "I don't know where it hit him. We don't have instant replay — and I'm glad we don't so we didn't have to relive it. He looked fine when he was coming off."

In other news, Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia will start Tuesday in the spring training finale against the Cubs. Pedroia was limited to three games last season after undergoing a microfracture procedure and cartilage replacement in his left knee in October 2017.

The 35-year-old Pedroia hosted Red Sox players and coaches Sunday night at his home in the Phoenix area.

"He's in a good place," Cora said. "I was joking with him because for that kid who played in Anaheim, in his first big league game in 2006, I still remember he was 5-6, chubby. He hates that I say that but he was. To see the house he has, I'm like, 'Wow. You did well, bro. What a story, you should write a book.' It was amazing. Obviously, in this environment, you go to some nice houses. They should do that show again — 'Cribs' — and go to Pedroia's."

How important would it be for the Red Sox to get a healthy Pedroia back?

"It's good," Cora said. "Forget the player - for him to be happy, that's the most important thing. Last year, he was great for us in the clubhouse, he was a leader, he was another coach. He still can play. You see him on a daily basis and he's smiling a little more, he's talking again, he's loud. When he's loud, he's in a good place. We're very happy with the progression.

"Whenever he comes back, I know he's going to contribute," Cora said. "We can't get too excited. We have to be patient. We have to be disciplined with this."


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Resolutions for Winding-up

2005-02-162005-02-21TSO (The Stationery Office), St Crispins, Duke Street, Norwich, NR3 1PD, 01603 622211,

At an Extraordinary General Meeting of the Members of the above-named Company, duly convened, and held at 43 Blackstock Road, London N4 2JF, on 16 February 2005, the following Extraordinary Resolution was duly passed: “That it has been proved to the satisfaction of this Meeting that the Company cannot, by reason of its liabilities, continue its business, and that it is advisable to wind up the same, and accordingly that the Company be wound up voluntarily, and that Andreas Georgiou Kakouris, of 43 Blackstock Road, London N4 2JF, be and he is hereby nominated Liquidator for the purposes of the winding-up.” J R Press, Chairman


text:
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Seniors advocate Isobel Mackenzie is photographed at her office in Victoria on December 15, 2017.

The appointment of a minister of loneliness in the United Kingdom to tackle social isolation is an acknowledgment of a problem Canadian experts say needs to be addressed here as well.

B.C.'s seniors' advocate Isobel Mackenzie said whether government intervention is the right approach remains to be seen, but it at least highlights social isolation as an important issue that merits public discourse.

"It's getting the conversation going," Mackenzie said. "It's something a lot of people don't think about who aren't isolated and lonely. ... They don't think about the person who is not reaching out to them."

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Andrew Wister, director of the gerontology research centre at Simon Fraser University in B.C., said studies have found about one in five Canadians experience some degree of loneliness or social isolation.

Social isolation can have serious repercussions, including impacts on a person's mental health and mortality, and Canada could learn from the U.K.'s approach in raising public discourse on the issue, he said.

U.K. Prime Minister Theresa May announced Wednesday the creation of a ministerial lead on loneliness. It marks the government's first step in implementing recommendations made by a commission that found rates of loneliness are "worryingly high" across all age groups.

In addition to developing a strategy to address the issue, Britain's new minister will work across government departments to identify and support solutions that are already working and collect data to monitor progress.

Wister said a collaborative approach to addressing social isolation is important because of the wide range of factors contributing to the problem.

A 2017 report by Canada's National Seniors Council, which Wister chaired, identified people living alone or in remote communities, who identify as LGBTQ, have disabilities and experience poverty as higher-risk groups.

Access to transportation is a barrier many seniors encounter, he said, as is the availability of other health and social services.

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Mackenzie said "unintended consequences" of modern life, including technology, are also isolating people.

As services such as banking and grocery shopping move online, people are losing opportunities to connect with one another, she said.

"We need to look at some of the decisions we are making as a society on how we are choosing to live that may be contributing over time to creating the circumstances that lead to loneliness and isolation – decisions like living in single-family homes in the suburbs, driving alone in cars, communicating through social media rather than in person," she said.

Loneliness and isolation are particularly acute among seniors over the age of 80 who experience additional challenges like the death of a spouse, Mackenzie said.

A survey conducted by her office last year found that even seniors in residential care facilities in B.C. reported feeling some degree of loneliness, despite being surrounded by people.

"Almost half of the people living in our care homes felt that they didn't have a close friend or someone they could do things with," Mackenzie said.

Story continues below advertisement

Wister said the problem is a complex one to solve, but deserves time and attention.

Reconnecting people with their communities can change lives by improving the health and well being of individuals and enriching the people around them, he said.

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Femme fatale

Robert Colville on A Thousand Years of Good Prayers | The Life of Graham | With Friends in High Places | Power, Sex, Suicide

A Thousand Years of Good Prayers by Yiyun Li (HarperPerennial - £7.99)

If Yiyun Li's short stories, which last week won the Guardian First Book Award, capture the flavour of life in modern China, we should all be very worried. Not because they depict lives stunted by a repressive, constricting state, although they do, but because virtually all of her characters' emotional lives are similarly constricted, as duty, family and history tug them away from the possibility of happiness. ]

Thus in 'After a Life', a secret, disabled daughter poisons the marriage of a pair of cousins; in the title story an old man tries to create a relationship with a daughter changed irrevocably by life in the United States. Li's moving, engrossing stories are particular in their place - they could only happen in that culture, under that regime - but universal in their themes and their relevance.

The Life of Graham by Bob McCabe (Orion - £7.99)

Graham Chapman was always the odd Python out - the quiet one (in script meetings, at least), the gay one, the alcoholic one, finally the dead one. Now, with Spamalot storming the West End, comes a timely authorised biography of the man who changed comedy history with the comment: 'How about a parrot?' In contrast to Chapman's own A Liar's Autobiography, McCabe's is a serious, play-it-straight study, acknowledging the former trainee doctor's unorthodox living arrangements and lifestyle but glossing over, for example, his tendency to stick his willy in available pints at his local. Python fans will be pleased with the new insights into the work while even those unable to recite every word of the sketches will engage with a troubled, complex man whose story is simply and sympathetically told.

With Friends in High Places by Malcolm Slesser (Mainstream Publishing - £7.99)

Malcolm Slesser's memoir is, as the title suggests, as much about mountaineers as mountains. This is not just an evaluation of the combination of daring and ego that drives most climbers but a record of the men he has climbed with, joked with and fought with over more than 50 years of near-compulsive clambering up rock and ice. The resulting politics and point-scoring can seem rather petty, and the professional terminology exclusive, but the author, a mildly officious Scot, turns lyrical when describing his career's peaks. This book is unlikely to get you hooked on mountaineering but it does a creditable job of explaining why people succumb to this addiction to adventure. That is particularly true of the account of a moderately disastrous Anglo-Soviet expedition in the Sixties.

Power, Sex, Suicide by Nick Lane (Oxford University Press - £9.99)

The title, admittedly, is a bit of a stretch - more suited for the biography of some Hollywood femme fatale than a 300-page textbook about the importance of mitochondria. But then Nick Lane makes a persuasive case that we owe these tiny clumps of genetic material lurking in our cells more than we can imagine. It was mitochondria, in his view, that allowed us 'eukaryotes' (beings with nuclei in our cells) to break away from the bacteria, to grow larger, to join together, to split into sexes, and now force us to age. This is heavy stuff, but Lane compensates by flattering the reader into feeling that they are being asked to evaluate opinions which other scientists would dub heretical. Challenging, but rewarding.


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MIA accuses VMAs of 'racism, sexism, classism, elitism'

This article is more than 3 years old

Musician has criticised MTV’s award show after her video for Borders – in which she portrays the plight of refugees – was missed off this year’s shortlist

Borders dispute … MIA wears the adapted Paris Saint-Germain shirt in the video to her latest song.
Borders dispute … MIA wears an adapted Paris Saint-Germain shirt in the video to her latest song. Photograph: YouTube

MIA has accused the MTV Video Music Awards of “racism, sexism, classism, elitism” after the video for her single Borders was not included on this year’s nominee list.

The self-directed video makes a statement on the refugee crisis, portraying groups of men packed on flotilla boats, while others scale vast border fences topped with barbed wire.

The VMA shortlist, announced earlier this week, is dominated by Beyoncé’s Lemonade, an artist MIA condemned this year for not being vocal about issues beyond Black Lives Matter. “Is Beyoncé or Kendrick Lamar going to say Muslim Lives Matter? Or Syrian Lives Matter? Or this kid in Pakistan matters?” she told the Evening Standard in April.

Posting a series of messages on Twitter today, the Sri Lankan rapper writes:

M.I.A (@MIAuniverse)

MIA - BORDERS is not included in the VMAs #hahahahhaahahhaha!! Racism sexism classism elitism #dontwantyourlane!

July 28, 2016
M.I.A (@MIAuniverse)

BORDERS came representing people outside US showing 🌍. This is a perfect example of "allowed" voice vs excluded voices .Even if U direct it.

July 28, 2016
M.I.A (@MIAuniverse)

not here 4 EGO or Accolades but know before you tell other 🌍 artists they have the same platform as major US artists coz they don't #🌍

July 28, 2016

Her reference to “allowed’ voice v excluded voices” alludes to MIA’s original comments surrounding the Black Lives Matter movement, which eventually led to her being dropped from the bill of London’s Afropunk festival.

“After discussing the situation with the artist and the community, a decision was agreed upon by all involved that MIA will no longer headline Afropunk London,” a statement from the festival read last week, after ticketholders threatened to boycott the event. “A key part of the Afropunk ethos has always been educating one another, breaking down boundaries and sparking conversation about race, gender, religion, sex, culture and everything that makes life worth living.”


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Mom says, ‘I had all but given up on losing weight, until I discovered The Healthy Mommy’

Stephanie Payne first joined The Healthy Mommy’s 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge just over a year ago. She had tried everything and anything before this to lose weight including multiple lap band surgeries and had almost given up hope.

But now she is constantly amazed by how far she has come since she began her journey with The Healthy Mommy, having lost an amazing 91 lbs.

This is her inspiring story

Stephanie has had a very turbulent weight loss journey which has included multiple lap band surgeries, but since discovering The Healthy Mommy she hasn’t looked back.

She has learned so much about herself and about food and is now looking forward to the future while also really loving the new person she has become both inside and out.

“In the weeks before I started the 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge, around dinner time, I would have been dragging myself up off the couch to start cooking,” she admits.

“I was uncomfortable, my legs were sore and I was tired. I’d existed like that for so many years and didn’t for a second imagine that I’d be about to share a post in a group like this before going for a run. I’m training for my 10K mile run! Also, we’ve all had dinner because I meal prepped!” Stephanie explains.

“If you’d told me this at the beginning, I would have laughed! I know by looking at these photos you miss the blood, sweat, laughter, and tears that have gone into the last 14 months but when I flip back through my social media, I see it all.”

“I’ve made so many amazing memories and I’ve become healthier along the way. It hasn’t been easy, but it’s been a pleasure.”

“I had all but given up on losing weight as over the years, I had tried everything you can think of to lose it – including having weight loss surgery. I had lap band surgery eight years ago, a few months after I was told I was 536 lbs.”

“I was told if I didn’t do something I would die. I got down to 364 lbs a year later and needed more surgery when my band slipped which saw me go back up to 464 lbs 18 months later. I still have my lap band but it’s not functioning as I require another round of surgery for it to work.”

“I never got back on the wagon after this and I hovered between 420 lbs and 460 lbs for years and had come to the conclusion that I was simply destined to be big for the rest of my life and that was how it was going to be.”

But luckily this story doesn’t end there. “That’s when I found the 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge,” she says.

Stephanie’s Healthy Mommy journey

Since discovering The Healthy Mommy, Stephanie is not only losing the weight she so desperately needs and wants to, she is gaining so much more. “I’ve lost 91 lbs in the last 13 months and I’ve learned SO many things along the way,” she says.

“In the 10 months since I’ve been following the 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge I’ve learned so much. As I lose the pounds, I gain so much more. I’m discovering someone I didn’t know existed and I surprise myself every day.”

“It sometimes doesn’t seem real that I have come so far especially after the struggles I’ve had but as I sit on the elephant (photo above) at exactly my halfway point between my heaviest weight and my goal weight of 186 lbs, I know more than ever that I’m going to achieve my goals.”

Stephanie also loves The Healthy Mommy community. She is so appreciative of the support she receives in the group. “I love the way we all look after one another, it just warms my heart,” she says.

With her positive attitude and commitment to the 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge she has lost a WHOPPING 91 lbs, has a new sexy back taking shape and is celebrating a whole lot of personal victories.

I was 434 lbs when I started. I’ve lost a total of 182 lbs since I began my weight loss journey all those years ago but in saying that, the weight that I’ve lost with the 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge has been the most enjoyable, the easiest and one I know I can continue to follow for the rest of my life.”

Stephanie’s personal victories

We have been following Stephanie’s journey since she began the 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge and we know what amazing personal progress she has made and the many obstacles she has overcome.

Stephanie’s story of sheer determination to improve her health is very evident. Her changing body shape and how much more positive she feels within herself is what keeps her motivated.

She says “It’s amazing what nine months of consistency can achieve. I’m so glad I have photos of myself from all angles. There’s a 91 lbs difference here between these pictures and I can see sexy curves.” We can see them too Stephanie – well done!

Her first victory? Having to tie a big knot in her shirt that is now too big!

One of her major personal victories is when she recently returned from a cruise. She was able to fly on a plane without the discomfort and embarrassment of the past. Something she previously would’ve thought twice about doing.

She says, “I flew on a plane (there and back!). Took stairs instead of elevators (willingly). Dressed up for one of the theme nights on the cruise. Wore leggings in front of people and didn’t think twice in doing so. Went biking. Laid on the sand not caring how big I looked (or didn’t look). Caught the train (and had no shame in sitting on a seat) and I can now rest my foot on my knee when sitting down!”

Stephanie has also achieved and learned so much about herself and what she is actually capable of. She says she has achieved all of this by being consistent, by forming habits, by pushing her limits and believing in herself.

“I’ve formed new habits, a new appreciation for what I’m capable of and I’ve learned to be kind to myself when I’m having one of those days,” she says.

“I’ve achieved it by being consistent. This is not a fad, this is not a diet – it’s something that I’ll be doing for life.”

“Yes, I do eat pizza, I do eat chocolate and I do drink wine sometimes, and I don’t do without any of the things that I love,” Stephanie admits.

“It’s about balance, moderation and knowing when to stop. I’m so proud of all I’ve achieved and please believe me when I say that you can do it as well.”

“I couldn’t and wouldn’t have done any of this before I found The Healthy Mommy!” she says.

Stephanie Payne transformation

Stephanie’s advice to others who may be on their own weight loss journey

Stephanie is hoping that her story will inspire others to take a leap of faith and achieve their weight loss goals.

When asked how she stays so positive and motivated she explains, “Consistency, determination, staying accountable and believing in myself have been some of the keys to my success. And accepting that it’s not always going to be easy and I’m not always going to be perfect has helped me through the hard times.”

“I am honored to be able to share my journey with you all and it warms my heart to know how many of you are inspired by my story. As cliche as it sounds, I want you to know that if I can do it, you can do it as well.”

“You deserve to give yourself another shot just like I did. You’ll thank yourself for it and so will your Elephant when you sit on him when you’re so much lighter.”

“I’m a big believer of one day at a time and taking small steps to achieve big things. I’ve got another 150 lbs to go before I get to my goal weight but I know this journey will never end. I’m here for the long haul and as each day passes, I know I’ve got this. And I know you have as well.”

“Let’s do this!”

Stephanie’s next goals and budget tips

“My goal right now is to continue being consistent and accountable. I no longer focus on losing a certain number of pounds as this isn’t always in my control.”

“I like to focus on things I can do and keep track of. I’ll continue working out five days a week, watching my water intake and keeping a food diary.”

Stephanie’s top 5 budget tips:

  1. If you’re a ‘see it, buy it’ shopper – shop online using a list. This will save you seeing the things that you don’t need!
  2. When working out your meal plan, make sure you’re using things you have in the fridge, freezer, and pantry. There are some weeks where I haven’t had to buy meat at all as I’ve managed to stockpile some from the week before!
  3. Shop around for the best prices. You’ll often find that meat and produce are a lot cheaper in different stores and shopping around will help save you a small fortune!
  4. Stop buying bottled water! Invest in a good water bottle and refill it at home.
  5. Try and shop only once a week. You’re likely to spend more if you shop daily or several times a week.”

Thank you, Stephanie, for taking The Healthy Mommy journey.  We are so looking forward to following more of your achievements with you.

Are you ready to become a Healthy Mommy?

28 Day Challenge
Regain your body confidence with The Healthy Mommy’s 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge.

Our Challenge is designed by moms FOR MOMS – to help them reach their goal weight and tackle their health and fitness.

The Challenge is home to customizable meal plans, 24/7 social support and realistic exercises moms can do AT HOME.

To find out more on the 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge click here.

*Images and references to pounds lost are as supplied by the individual in the story. The Healthy Mommy assumes information and photographs supplied to be true in nature and is not responsible for any false misrepresentations or claims relating to their programs or products.


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Rupee firms up 8 paise to 70.86 against dollar

PTI Mumbai | Updated on January 13, 2020 Published on January 13, 2020

Rupee opened Monday's session firm

The rupee rose 8 paise to close at 70.86 against the US dollar on Monday as the upcoming US-China trade deal signing kept global market sentiment upbeat.

This was the fifth straight session of gains for the domestic currency, during which it has appreciated by 106 paise.

At the interbank foreign exchange market, the local unit opened on a strong note at 70.82, and shuttled between a high of 70.75 and a low of 70.93 during the day. It finally ended at 70.86, higher by 8 paise over its previous close.

The rupee had settled at 70.94 against the US dollar on Friday.

Emerging market currencies appreciated as investors looked forward to the signing of the first phase of the much-anticipated US-China trade deal later this week.

The phase one of the trade deal with China includes the country buying $200 billion worth of additional American products, US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said on Sunday.

A positive trend at the domestic equity markets and easing crude oil prices further supported the local unit, forex traders said.

Published on January 13, 2020
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TheHolidaySpot - Festivals and Holidays

Mother's Day Celebrations Around The World

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Mother's Day celebration in

Mother's Day have been recognized in special ways for thousands of years. It's celebrated in over 40 countries around the world! Mother's Day celebration around the worldNormally most of the countries celebrate Mother’s Day on the second Sunday in the month of May but however many countries celebrate Mother’s Day entirely at different time of the year. Thus the exact date and the way this event is celebrated vary from country to country since the time of Ancient Greece. But whatever may be the date of Mother's Day around the world, the spirit is the same everywhere. Thus everywhere in the world mothers are respected for their extreme devotion towards their kids. They are showered with love, care and gifts items. It is the day when every child on earth pays their humblest tribute to their mothers and thank their respective mothers for giving them birth and providing them with the best of care and upbringing. Here is a glimpse of today's Mother's Day celebrations as done worldwide. Know about the different ways in which this heart-warming occasion is celebrated in different countries of the world. Do you like it? If yes, feel free to click here and forward this to anybody you want.

Mother's day at the United Kingdom...
Mother's Day is more popularly known as Mothering Sunday, the origins of the holiday date back to centuries when it was considered important for churchgoers to visit their home or "mother" church once a year. During Lent, the practice became quiet popular, and in a society where children were often sent off to work in other villages at a very young age, it quickly became a time for family reunions and celebrations that were fondly cherished. A special cake, might also be brought along to provide a festive touch. Later, Mothering Sunday became a day when children and domestic servants were allowed a day off to see their families. Celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent, Mothering Sunday remains a time to pay mothers their due rewards for all their love and encouragement with flowers, candies, cards, and other tokens of appreciation.

Mother's day at the United States of America...
It's said that Mother's Day was first suggested in the United Sates by Julia Ward Howe in 1872 as a day dedicated to peace after the Franco Prussian War. The holiday gained its popularity majorly due to the efforts of Anna M. Jarvis.

Anna began a letter-writing campaign to garner support for a national Mother's Day holiday when her mother passed away in 1905, with the help of friends, Reaching out to influential leaders, including William Taft, Theodore Roosevelt, and John Wannamaker, Anna poured out a stream of solicitations for support of the idea. She believed, mothers deserved their own special day and that it would help strengthen family bonds.

She persuaded her mother's church in West Virginia to celebrate Mother's Day on the second anniversary of her mother's death, the 2nd Sunday of May. By 1911 Mother's Day was celebrated in almost every state, and flowers quickly became a lasting tradition to express love on the occasion. In 1914, Congress passed a resolution designating the second Sunday in May as Mother's Day, "a public expression of love and reverence for the mothers of our country." President Woodrow Wilson issued the first proclamation making it an official U.S. holiday.

For More details, click here

Other countries that celebrate Mother's Day on the second Sunday in May include: Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Italy, Japan, and Turkey.

Mother's day Celebrations in India...
Just as in the West, Indians too take Mothers Day as a time too reflect on the importance of mothers in their life. Mother's Day is the time to say a big thank you Ma. The Hindu people celebrate for ten days in October in a festival they call Durga Puja. Durga is the name of a goddess who protects the people from evil and is also popularly known as The universal Mother..
People send cards to their mums on Mothers Day. Invitations for a meal so that she can have a days rest from the kitchen and gifting out goodies on Mothers Day is also rampant.

Mother's day Celebrations in Spain...
Mother's Day is celebrated on the first Sunday of May in Spain. Like elsewhere, this day is observed throughout the country to honor all mothers. Shops all over Spain make a brisk business selling chocolates, flowers, greeting cards and many other presents for Mother's Day which find a great favor with children although many of them prefer to handcraft the greetings and presents for their mothers.

Mother's day Celebrations in New Zealand...
In New Zealand Mothers Day is celebrated on the second Sunday in the month of May. This is the same day on which US celebrates its Mothers Day. And as the idea of celebrating Mothers Day in New Zealand has come from US, the manner of celebrating Mothers Day in New Zealand is much the same as that in US. On Mothers Day people of New Zealand thank their mothers and recognize their esteemed efforts in bringing them up and caring for them. There is a big euphoria over the day and people celebrate the day by going out for picnics and dinners. Markets see a busy time as people make it a point to buy gifts for their mothers, grand mothers and friends and relatives who are mothers.

Mother's day Celebrations at Yugoslavia...
Mothers' Day is observed in December. The children sneak into their mother's bedroom and tie her up in bed. When she awakes she promises to give the children gifts that she has hidden in order to be untied.

Mother's day Celebrations in South Africa...
In South Africa, Mothers Day is celebrated on the second Sunday in the month of May. People of South Africa celebrate Mother's Day in its true spirit by acknowledging the importance of mothers in their lives and thanking them profusely for all their love and care. People also gift flowers and cards to their mother as an expression of their heartfelt feeling of gratitude and affection.

Mother's day Celebrations In Japan...
Young children draw pictures called "My Mother" and enter them into an exhibit. This exhibit of pictures then travels to many different countries around the world

Mother's day Celebrations In Canada...
Mothers Day is a the most popular festival after Christmas and Valentines Day. Just as in USA, Mothers Day in Canada is celebrated in the second Sunday in the month of May. People pay tribute to their mothers on the day and thank them for their constant support and love. In Canada, cards and flowers are the most commonly used methods of expressing love for moms. It has been commercialized to a large extent with compelling advertising strategies in the technologically advanced country of Canada.

Mother's day Celebrations In Sweden...
they sell little plastic flowers before Mother's Day. They then use the money that they make from these flowers to send the mothers with many children on vacation.

Mother's day Celebrations in Mexico...
Mother's Day, or Dia de las Madres, is May 10 in Mexico. It's a hugely popular occasion celebrated throughout the country, with special events sponsored by schools, churches, cities, and civic groups. The family tradition is for sons and daughters to come to their mother's house on the eve of Mother's Day (May 9). Festive Mother's Day masses, handmade gifts, flowers, cards, and children's' school presentations are also often part of the nationwide observance.

Mother’s Day Celebration in Australia...
In Australia, Mother’s Day is celebrated with lot of enthusiasm and joy. It falls on the same day as in US which is on the second Sunday in the month of May and is celebrated in a similar fashion as in US. Thus people of Australia take Mother’s Day as an opportunity to express gratitude to their mother and shower their love over them. Children show their love to their moms by gifting some beautiful flowers and cards to them.

Just as in US, Australia also has this tradition of wearing carnation on Mother’s Day in Australia. The carnation has a special connotation attached. A colored carnation signifies that a person's mother is living while a white carnation is used to honor a deceased mother. Besides their own mothers children honor their grandmothers and other women who love and care for them as a mother does. Thus on this particular day every children show their respect and pamper their mother s and mother figure by treating them with breakfast on bed and with gifts and cakes.

Just like as it is in the US, celebrating Mother's Day in Australia has also become an affair of commercialisation and profit-making. Marketers try to play on the emotional aspect of the festival to sell their goods. Card manufacturers and florists particularly see a high business.

Other countries that celebrate Mother's Day on May 10 include:
Bahrain, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Singapore.

Mother's day Celebrations in Ireland
In Ireland, Mothers Day is not celebrated on same day as in US. Mothers Day celebrations in Ireland takes place on the fourth Sunday in the Christian fasting month of Lent. This corresponds to the day on which Mothers Day or Mothering Sunday is celebrated in UK, a close neighbor of Ireland. While in the US Mothers Day is celebrated on the second Sunday in the month of May. But just as in scores of other countries, people in Ireland honor their mothers on the occasion of Mothers Day for all their love and affection.

Other Nations
Similar holidays are commonplace throughout the world, including Argentina (2nd Sunday in Oct.), France (last Sunday in May), Lebanon (1st day of Spring), Norway (2nd Sunday in Feb.), South Africa (1st Sunday in May), Sweden (last Sunday in May), and Yugoslavia/Serbia (two weeks before Christmas).

The festival of Mothers Day is based on the emotions shared between mother and a child. However, the idea has been commercialized by marketers all over the world to convert the sentiments into profit. Rigorous advertising campaigns are launched days before the festival to lure people to go on a spending spree for the D day. Though this helps to promote Mothers Day and raise awareness about the day on the brighter side and lets all walk that extra line to keep the emotions and the noble idea behind the day alive and not just make it a day of formal exchange of gifts.

Hot Holiday Events


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STAMFORD -- Mayor Michael Pavia presented his proposed operating budget for fiscal year 2012-2013 Thursday afternoon, recommending a total city budget of $483.3 million, which would result in a 3.66 percent mill rate increase. However, Pavia said the proposed mill rate could go down to 3.51 percent if the city adopts his request to reduce $600,000 for Board of Education medical related expenditures.

The Board of Education's budget originally projected a 10 percent increase in medical related expenditures, said Pavia, but by looking at the impact of offsetting revenues in the form of an increase in retiree cost share, labor settlements and a contribution from a well reserved internal service medical fund, the city has determined that the Board of Education's contribution can be reduced by $600,000.

"I recommend that we (cut) that money out of the Board of Educations budget and that will reduce the mill rate to a 3.51 percent increase," said Pavia at a Thursday afternoon press conference. "I think that is a number the public will be able to live with."

Pete Privitera, interim director of administration, said the city operating budget includes fully funding the police and fire departments' overtime budget in the operating fund. Overtime expenditures have been traditionally partially funded in the police and fire departments' budgets with the balance in the contingency reserve, he said.

"We decided to put the police and fire overtime in the operating budget this year because, to me, it makes more sense than putting it in the contingency reserve," said Privitera. "Contingency is suppose to be for unforseen events and expenditures, and overtime is not an unforeseen expenditure."

Pavia said he also included funding in the police and fire departments budget for new initiatives, including one quarter of the new Volunteer Fire Services Plan and various staff additions in response to increasing service levels in critical operational areas.

The proposed budget includes $50.9 million for the Police Department and $41.8 million for the Fire Department.

Privitera said the proposed budget will not call for any layoffs, and the city will add six new positions.

"We eliminated some positions a few years ago, and we feel that we may have gone too deep,' said Privitera. "So we are now adding some positions back."

Pavia said he is happy that the city is able to add jobs back to the city.

"The layoffs two years ago were necessary, and unfortunately, what had to be done at that time," said Pavia. "Now I am happy to say we have a more optimistic outlook and are able to keep layoffs out of the budget and even add jobs."

During Thursday's press conference, Pavia also released his proposed 2013 capital budget, which recommends a gross amount of $57.1 million and a net amount of $34.6 million.

Privitera said most of the capital budget is going to be used for public works and infrastructure.


text:
Raynor Ergohuman Chair - Custom Fabric Chair with Headrest FE55ERG

Euro fabric in black
Shop our most popular ergonomic chairs by UPLIFT Desk

Give your office the ergonomic upgrades it needs to keep you and your colleagues working better. This is the Raynor Ergohuman Chair - Custom Fabric Chair with Headrest CU9ERG, and it's supremely customizable to your needs, giving you a stylish chair that can help you improve your comfort levels at work with a single seat switch up.

Also known as the "ergo human chair", it provides constant back and lumbar support with built-in flexzones, letting you get to that sitting sweet spot easily. The Ergohuman chair comes with adjustable, pivoting arms, and an adjustable headrest, giving you even more flexibility to alter your seating situation. Add in synchro-tilt, tilt-tension control mechanisms, and adjustable seat depth and pneumatic height adjustments for an optimally supportive seat. Available in your pick of fabric for a stylish addition the office will appreciate.

Returns on chairs in colors other than black may incur a higher restocking fee. Please consider this when placing your chair order.

  • Pneumatic cylinder raises and lowers chair for easy adjusting
  • Back, headrest, and seat cushion adjust to fit different users
  • Lumbar support is adjustable for long-term comfort
  • Height-adjustable, pivoting armrests for numerous tasks
  • Back angle adjustment with 3 position tilt-lock and tension control allows you to adjust the chair back in relation to the seat
  • Synchro-tilt mechanism
  • Seat depth adjustment
  • Complies with ANSI/BIFMA standards

Overall dimensions 26" W x 27.5" D x 46 - 51" H
Seat height 19.3 - 24" H
Seat dimensions 19.5" W x 15.5 - 17.75" D
Back dimensions 21.25" W x 21.5 - 23.5" H
Weight capacity 250 lbs
Box size 33" H x 21" W x 26" D
Weight 65 lbs

Standard Fabric

The Raynor Ergohuman Chair is available in four standard colors in Euro fabric: black, charcoal, navy, or burgundy.

Euro Grade 1

Fabrix Options

Choose from a variety of different fabrics for a winning combination of style and comfort. These chairs are considered by Raynor Eurotech to be custom covered chairs. Note: Custom chairs take 5-7 business days to manufacture before they will ship & are not returnable.

Gunslinger Recycled Leather Grade 2

Ergonomic Training Video

This chair purchase includes a free half-hour Ergonomic Training Video with an ergonomic pro. This video will help you learn how best to use ergonomic tools and make the right choices for your workstation. Anyone interested in building an ideal workspace for their own unique needs should take advantage of this offer. The video will cover valuable ergonomic essentials such as:

  • Understanding the biomechanics of sitting
  • Setting up a workstation to maximize efficiency
  • Adjusting a chair to promote neutral posture
  • Learning exercises to reduce stress and fatigue
Ergonomic Training Video

3 Reviews Hide Reviews Show Reviews

  • 4
    Great lumbar support, arm rests are an issue.

    Posted by Smolderweb on Aug 24th 2017

    This chair is the most comfortable I have ever sat in. That being said, there is only 1 thing holding it back from a 5 star rating in my opinion. The arm rests try to do everything at once, and fail. They telescope up and down, slide forward and back, and even tilt in and out. The problem lies in the fact that there are NO locking mechanisms for any of these adjustments. The arms get moved out of position very easily, and cannot be used in any manner other than resting your arms lightly on them. A locking mechanism for all 3 adjustments in the arms would make this chair superior. As it is, 4 of 5 stars.

  • 5
    Beautiful and comfortable!

    Posted by Elena on Mar 16th 2013

    If you are looking for a beautiful, supportive, and comfortable office chair, look no further! I have NEVER CONSIDERED paying this much for an office chair before, but when I was furnishing my new office with the back/neck aches from my crappy old chair still fresh in my memory, I knew I needed something that could be used all day. I took a chance and ordered the "Mudslide" leather version of this chair, hoping it would compliment my office of dark browns and blacks. I was not disappointed!

    I needed a chair that wouldn't be an eye-sore or distraction for clients but could also support my back and neck for long hours at the computer. This chair is perfect for both! Very adaptable to all bodies, this chair moves with my body as I shift. It only took minutes to adjust the chair to my height/size which was surprising since I am short (5'3") and the chair is substantial in size.

    Assembly was not my favorite task, but was as easy as possible considering that the end product was this incredibly sturdy, gorgeous chair. I did it by myself (wrong decision), but I think having two people would have made it a snap. Love it!

  • 5
    Great Solution

    Posted by Rhonda on Jul 7th 2009

    I really liked the idea of the leather ergohuman because I sit in my chair for 9 hours a day and preferred a padded sea. We're required to order matching color chairs at work so the black leather wouldn't work for me. This was the perfect solution-the only thing that was hard was picking from all those fabric options :) It showed up one week after I ordered online. The chair is really comfortable- and I'm getting the support I expected from all the reviews I found online that lead me to this chair in the first place.

This product comes standard with a limited lifetime warranty on seating components, and a 5-year warranty on the upholstery and foam (excluding armpads).

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  • You are responsible for obtaining a Return Merchandise Authorization, the cost of shipping, and potential restocking fees, if the item has been opened.
  • To start a return, or to view the full returns policy, click here.
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$711.00 List Price: $1,452.00* The list price is the same as the MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price). It may not necessarily be the price at which the product is sold.
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Neutral Posture 6000 Series High Back Ergonomic Chair

Comes in a wide range of color options
Shop ergonomic chairs by UPLIFT Desk

For sitters with broad shoulders or users who prefer a seat with less contouring, the Neutral Posture NPS6000 Series High Back Ergonomic Chair has a smaller lateral curve than other Neutral Posture chairs.

The NPS6000 offers exceptional back and lumbar support, making it an excellent choice for those who sit for long durations. You pick the seat, arms, and features that best fit your comfort needs and sense of style, with an option to add a headrest to your setup for even more comfort where it's needed.

The Neutral Posture NPS6000 Series High Back Ergonomic Chair features a thickly padded and optimally supportive chair back, while medium and highly contoured seats disperse your body weight more evenly than a traditionally contoured seat, reducing the pressure points in your legs simultaneously. Change the way you sit and change your life, one chair at a time.

  • A high back for exceptional upper back and lumbar support
  • Air adjustable lumbar support
  • Adjustable back height and angle
  • Adjustable arm height, width, and 360° armpad rotation
  • Plastic outer shell on back can be upholstered
  • Forward tilt-stop standard on multifunction mechanism with seat slider

Back width 23"
Arm height range 7"-11"
Seat depth range 2"
Chair weight capacity 275 lbs
Warranty Lifetime warranty

Neutral Posture offers a variety of seats and seat contouring to suit your needs. The reason for considering a more contoured seat is that a contoured seat better fits your bottom, better distributing your body weight, reducing the chance of pressure points. Contouring also encourages you to sit back in your seat for better posture and reduced upper body stress. We recommend that most users select at least a moderately contoured seat.

If you'd like a softer seat or a further reduction in seated pressure, your seat can be ordered with a layer of N'Dulgent memory foam. If you're ordering one of the minimally contoured seat, we strongly recommend adding the N'Dulgent foam.

Medium seat Minimal contour 21'' W x 19'' D
Moderate contour 23'' W x 20'' D
Deep contour 24'' W x 19'' D
Large seat Minimal contour 23'' W x 21'' D
Deep contour 25'' W x 22'' D

A variety of armrest options are available to suit your unique needs. Choose the arms that best match your daily habits, tasks, needs, and posture changes.

Neutral Posture Arms

5-way 360° Arms [0]

The 0 Arm offers height, width, depth, and pivot adjustment. The arm pads also slide in and out, as well as forward and backward so that you can find the perfect position to rest your arms. The 0 arm also features 24 positive-lock angle positions in a 360° range.

360° Swivel Arms with Oversized Urethane Arm Pads [3]

The 3 Arm features 360° swivel range with 22 positive-lock angle positions. Height, width, and pivot adjustment will allow you to find a good working position in relation to your desk or keyboard tray. Oversized, urethane arm pads offer a larger support surface.

Swing-away Arms [4]

The 4 Arm swings down and out of the way when not needed. In addition, this arm offers height and width adjustment. This is a great option for chairs that will be used by multiple people, some of whom may not want to use arm rests.

Oversized Black Vinyl Arm Pads [6]

The 6 Arm offers the same features as the 3 arm, just with oversized black vinyl arm pads instead of urethane arm pads. Height, width, and pivot adjustment in addition to 22 positive-lock angle positions in a 360° range will make certain that you find the perfect resting spot for your arms.

Oversized Fabric/ Leather Arm Pads [7]

The 7 Arm offers the same features as the 3 and 6 arms, just with a fabric or leather covering to match your chair upholstery.

Friction Tracker [8]

The 8 Arm offers the largest depth range of all the arms because it pivots on two axes. This is the best choice for users who want the most flexibility positioning their arms inward or outward. These arms are padded & upholstered to provide maximum comfort.

Ball Bearing Tracker [9]

The 9 Arm tracks your arm throughout a full range of motion. Your forearm will rest in the cuff as you move to type or mouse at your desk. This is a great option for users who engage in intensive arm movement tasks and need the most support. It is not recommended for general use.

360° Swivel [P]

The P Arm offers height, width, and pivot adjustment as well as 22 positive-lock angle positions in a 360° range. This is the same movement offered in the 3, 6, and 7 Arms just without the oversized arm pad.

Thoracic Support

The thoracic spine refers to your mid and upper-back. Add a thoracic support to the back of your chair to encourage good posture and reduce upper body pain.

Memory Foam

Standard Foam

The Neutral Posture NPS6000 features thickly padded high density foam for a plush seat cushion and back.

N'dulgent Memory Foam

N'dulgent memory foam can be added to the seat or entire chair to add an additional layer of padding for a soft, cushiony feel that doesn't compromise support.

TheraGel Memory Foam

TheraGel Memory Foam is Neutral Posture's newest addition. TheraGel is a visco-elastic memory foam with microgel beads that absorb your body heat to allow for cooler air flow. TheraGel Memory Foam will keep you cool and supported throughout the entire workday.

Specialty caster options let you restrict or improve mobility, optimizing the NPS6000 chair for use with different floor types and applications.

  • Carpet Casters (standard)
  • Hard Floor Casters
  • Glides
  • Hard Floor Brake In
  • Hard Floor Brake Out
  • Chrome Carpet Casters
  • Chrome Hard Floor Casters

Various chair base styles are available, allowing for an additional touch of customization to better match your office furniture.

  • 26" black base (standard)
  • 26" polished aluminum
  • 27" brushed aluminum

Multiple cylinder height options can be used with the NPS6000 chair, providing an optimal seat height for a wide variety of users.

Standard 5'' height range 17'' - 22'' H
Short 3'' height range 16'' - 19'' H

Add a dual-pivot headrest in matching upholstery to your NPS6000 series chair. This headrest offers height, depth and angle adjustment.

Neutral Posture chairs are built to order. Chairs ordered in most listed fabrics will ship in about a week, but some fabrics may take up to four weeks before shipping to you.

Spacer - Grade 1

Spacer fabric is a 100% polyester mesh fabric. This Greenguard Gold certified fabric is soft, yet durable. Spot clean with a water/ solvent cleaner for any dirt or spills.

Ace - Grade 2

Ace fabric is composed of 80% post-industrial recycled polyester and 20% post-consumer recycled polyester. This heavy-duty fabric has enhanced abrasion resistance, to stand-up to your work week. The fabric also features enhanced soil and stain resistance, but if you do spill something just spot clean with a water-based solution.

Metro Woven Crypton - Grade 2

Metro Woven Crypton fabric is 100% polyester and features antimicrobial silver ion technology for bacterial, fungus, and mildew resistance. This heavy-duty fabric is a great choice for high traffic areas or healthcare settings. Spot clean with soap and water, or use Crypton Upholstery Cleaner for best results.

Cloud 9 - Grade 3

Cloud 9 is a soft, yet durable fabric offered by Neutral Posture. The thick weave will provide a plush cushion for your chair.

Ultraleather - Grade 5

Ultraleather premium faux leather features a 100% polyurethane surface with a reinforced rayon backing. Get a leather-like, executive chair while still remaining environmentally friendly.

Madras Leather - Grade 9

Madras premium leather is a top of the line, natural grain leather. The soft, supple feel with a smooth hand will make for a truly executive experience.

Upholstered Outer Back

The standard back comes with a plastic outer shell. The back can also be fully upholstered in same fabric as the rest of the chair.

1 Review Hide Reviews Show Reviews

  • 3
    It could have been the perfect chair.

    Posted by OC on Jun 29th 2018

    Prepare yourself, in reality it looks like a VERY ordinary, yet chubby office chair. I first tried those more modern sexy looking chairs, and

    it doesn't necessarily say anything about comfort. This is an old fashioned office chair, however with tons of

    adjustments. I took the Thera Gel foam, I cannot say I really feel it, it feels like normal cushion to me.

    The headrest is cushy and adjustable, but not too much adjustable forward. I have to lean Backwards in order to feel it, so don't expect to feel it during regular use. I wish they'd have improved that.

    The assembly is old fashioned, they Did cut corners here, the arms

    assembly is Annoying (bothersome), I've already seen MUCH better mechanisms which allow installing arms without pulling the chair outside down, and required MUCH LESS parts.

    Looks like a Chineese mechanism at the bottom of the chair. Also all the plastics didn't feel too much quality, and came dirty with dust (the plastic of the base and of the arms). Not the sleek and fresh feeling you want to have when buying a new chair.

    In order to attached the Back to the Seat you have to use 3 screws,

    and the Insert of one of them was damaged in my chair. So they

    are only connected by 2 screws now. Too expensive to ship back, I

    will just live with it, but obviously they did NOT try to assembly this

    chair (Quality Control?) prior shipping it to me. If they did, they'd have know that. I am mad about this.

    I chose the big seat (minimal countor) despite my weight is 5'10"

    and I weight 150lbs. I just like that it's roomier, due to adjustments

    (seat depth and arms depth) it doesn't feel too big.

    The pump in the back is terrific.

    As for the Fabric, I chose their own Cloud cloth, doesn't seem too durable but I cannot tell yet. My advice is to choose one of their more durable fabrics (also easier to clean) if you can afford it.

    Their 360 Swivel arms are OK but I wish they could have been adjusted more backwards. If you don't really use the 360 functionality, and if you can afford it (...), I'd strongly consider choosing the no. 8 arms (Friction Tracker).

    Generally I'm not sad purchasing this chair, but I do feel that I paid too much given the overall quality. It's a good chair, comfy (the seat and back feels wonderful), but Neutral Posture need better a QC, and buy their steel mechanism and plastics not from china.

This product comes standard with a Limited 15-year warranty.

Return Information

  • You are responsible for obtaining a Return Merchandise Authorization, the cost of shipping, and potential restocking fees, if the item has been opened.
  • To start a return, or to view the full returns policy, click here.
Your Price
$956.00 List Price: $1,275.00* The list price is the same as the MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price). It may not necessarily be the price at which the product is sold.
Ships Free (US 48)
Ships in 3-4 weeks

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  • Seat
  • Arms
  • Thoracic Support
  • Memory Foam
  • Casters
  • Bases
  • Cylinder
  • Headrest
  • Fabric
  • Upholstered Outer Back
  • Order Review

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ST. LOUIS — The family of the St. Louis-area man accused of killing prominent Edwardsville attorney Randy Gori released a public statement Friday offering their “heartfelt prayers” and are “seeking answers as well.”

Timothy Banowetz, 28, of Wentzville, is charged with murder, armed robbery and unlawful restraint in the stabbing death of Gori inside the well-known attorney’s Edwardsville home Saturday. Two children at the residence were restrained, but not hurt. Police arrested Banowetz Sunday morning less than 1,200 feet from the home.

The Banowetz family says Timothy Banowetz had been estranged from the family and they were “shocked” to hear his arrest in the murder.

Police said during a news conference Monday that they had not been able to find any connection between Banowetz, who they say lived a transient lifestyle, and Gori. However, investigators say the murder was planned.

Officials have given very few details into the incident.

“We’re not going to comment on the motive, or any evidence at all,” Madison County Sheriff’s Office Capt. David Vucich said Monday.

Banowetz was reportedly a student of St. Louis College of Pharmacy. Online court records show that he was evicted from an apartment on Washington Avenue in early December, owing the property owner $3,718.

The statement issued by the Banowetz family was first released to KMOV News 4 through the Rosenblum, Schwartz and Fry law firm. It reads in full:

“Our heartfelt prayers go out to Randy Gori, his family, and the community impacted by this harm and destruction. It’s unimaginable the pain that must be felt. Our family is grieving and seeking answers as well. Timothy has been estranged from the family and we are shocked to have discovered him in this way. We are praying that love is shown to those hurting and that wisdom is given to those seeking the truth. We additionally pray that our privacy is respected at this time.”

Rosenblum, Schwartz and Fry does not represent Timothy Banowetz, who was assigned a public defender during an initial appearance on Wednesday. A pretrial hearing was scheduled for Jan. 24. He is being held in the Madison County Jail without bond.


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Warriors in the Field Donations

For every mattress set sold in the month of January, the new America’s Mattress store at 237 S. Kanawha St. in Buckhannon will donate a portion of proceeds to the local veterans group Warriors in the Field. The nonprofit organization coordinates hunting trips for veterans of any age with different types of disabilities. From left are Dave Whittacre, coordinator of Warriors in the Field, Mia Cross and store owner Mark Cross.


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Rep. Rice: My vote against BDS — and for Israel

One of my top priorities in Congress is to do everything that I can to strengthen the bonds between the United States and Israel, and to ensure that the United States never wavers in our support for the State of Israel and the Israeli people.

This is a priority for me because of the unique bonds that our district shares with Israel. I recognize and value the historical, cultural and religious bonds that have tied our countries and our people together for so long. And I believe our partnership with Israel is as beneficial to the United States as it is for Israel. Indeed, when we invest in Israel’s security and prosperity, we are investing in our own security and prosperity.

And this week, I was proud to once again stand up for our deep and vital relationship with Israel by voting to condemn the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement, which passed the House of Representatives with overwhelming bipartisan support.

There has never been a shortage of people who are vocal in their criticism of Israel and even in their deep-seated anti-Semitism.  And with the passage of  H.Res. 246, the House unequivocally rejected attempts to undermine Israel’s rightful place as the Jewish homeland.

This vote was a critical step forward, because anti-Israel forces are turning more and more to the BDS movement as a tool to try to delegitimize Israel. In fact, the UN Human Rights Council even passed a resolution to create a “blacklist” of companies that operate or do business with entities that operate beyond the 1949 armistice lines.

Much like the UN Human Rights Council, this movement is predicated on the belief that Israel is the main obstacle to peace and that Israel is standing in the way of a lasting resolution to the current conflict.

And while forces behind the BDS movement may claim to want peace between Israelis and Palestinians, we know that BDS will not help achieve that peace. As I’ve always said, a lasting resolution to this conflict will only come through direct negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians. The terms of that resolution will not be dictated by a third party – but that’s exactly what pro-BDS advocates and much of the international community want to do.

Nevertheless, the BDS movement is gaining steam, which is why it’s never been more important for people to be vocal about our support for Israel and oppose this misguided movement – Democrats,  Republicans, and Independents. We need to speak up about the fact that Israel is the only democracy in the Middle East and shares a region with neighbors focused on its destruction. That Israel, like the U.S., values freedoms of speech and religion and shares a deep commitment to human rights, women’s rights, and equality.

Just two weeks ago, I had the opportunity to visit Israel as part of a bipartisan congressional delegation. While there, we met with Prime Minister Netanyahu, Ambassador David Friedman, leading Members of the Knesset and top security officials, where I was pleased to deliver a strong, bipartisan message of support to our critical ally.

I’m not afraid to be vocal about my support for Israel, nor will I hesitate to stand up to those who seek to undermineIsrael’s right to exist. And today, that’s what the House of Representatives did. We sent a clear message to our country and to the entire international community that the United States of America stands with Israel. And that is a message I will continue to send as long as I have the privilege of representing New York’s fourth Congressional district in Congress.

Kathleen Rice represents New York's Fourth Congressional District, which includes the Five Towns and other South Shore communities.


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Dublin: 6 °C Friday 17 January, 2020

Man arrested and €150k in cash seized after gardaí stop speeding van on N2

The discovery was made after gardaí stopped a speeding van yesterday.

Image: Brian Lawless via PA Images

A MAN IS due in court this afternoon after being arrested following the seizure of €2,000 worth of drugs and the discovery of more than €150,000 worth of cash in Dublin.

Yesterday, gardaí from DMR Roads Policing Unit, based in Blanchardstown, carried out a speed checkpoint on the N2 Finglas Road.

They stopped a van travelling in excess of the speed limit.

While carrying out a search of a person and the van, gardaí discovered a quantity of cocaine and ecstacy tablets (subject to analysis) with an approximate value of €2,000.

Further searches of the van uncovered a quantity of cash in excess of €150,000 believed to be the proceeds of the sale and supply of controlled drugs.

Follow up searches later that day at addresses in Finglas and Lucan were carried out. Six mobile phones were recovered, including an encrypted phone.

A 40-year-old man was arrested and taken to Finglas Garda Station where he is currently detained under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice Drug Trafficking Act 1996 at Ballymun Garda Station.

Gardaí have since charged the man. He is due to appear before the Criminal Courts of Justice at 4.30pm this afternoon.

Comments are closed as a person has been charged.

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Purchase our delicious and healthy pure, raw juices in our Online Juice Store using the secure PayPal system – This way you can pay by BACS, debit or credit card through PayPal..it’s both easy and secure.

Here you can buy either a Juice Cleanse Pack or even a Gift Voucher!

“Cleanse With a Friend”
Order 2 of our 3, 5 0r 7 day cleanse packs and qualify for FREE delivery (Delivery to 1 address)

Please specify whether you would like to collect your juices during the week or use our UK or local delivery option.

If in doubt about our delivery options, please drop us a line and we will see what we can do to help.

We aim to have your juices ready for collection or delivery as soon as possible but request at least four days notice as they are all made to order with fresh produce. During busy periods this can sometimes take extra time.

Ready to find out more?


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Medical Payments Coverage Medical Payments coverage is coverage you may have on your own auto insurance policy. If you have Medical Payments coverage, it will cover some or all of your medical bills incurred as the result of a car accident.…
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Medical Payments Coverage in North Carolina

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Medical Payments coverage (or "Med Pay") is an available amount of money which can be applied directly to your outstanding medical bills. These funds are in addition to any settlement you reach with an insurance company related to a car accident…


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Montgomery County's property tax bills reflecting the 2019 countywide revaluation of properties go in the mail in the coming week, county officials said Friday.

"Property tax bills are available now on our website, and will begin delivering to mailboxes next week," said County Trustee Kimberly Wiggins.

Wiggins said property tax bills may be paid through Feb. 29, 2020, without interest.

While there have been some questions raised in the community about perceived delays in the process of distributing 2019 tax bills, Wiggins said her office is on schedule with it.

"The timing of the distribution is in line with previous years," she said. "We have worked diligently to proof and prepare mailed bills after receiving the final adjusted tax rolls from the state last week."

Local property taxpayers can view bills, pay online, and find the list of additional locations to pay the bills at, by visiting

Reappraisal year

In addition to the fiscal impact of a countywide 23% increase in the combined overall value of all Montgomery County properties after the 2019 reappraisal, those individual tax bills should also reflect the county's new property tax rate of  $2.99 per $100 assessed value.

While the previous county tax rate was $3.07 before reappraisal, a general increase calculated in property value countywide meant that, to make taxation resulting from revaluation revenue-neutral for the county as required by law, the state-certified tax rate was reset earlier this year at $2.57.

That didn't last for long.

Beyond the certified rate, the County Commission this summer levied a tax rate of $2.99 for fiscal year 2019-20 to support the county's budget — which equates to a 42-cent increase in the tax rate.

The state-mandated countywide reappraisal is conducted by the county assessor of property's office every five years.

Reach Jimmy Settle at or 931-245-0247. To support his work, sign up for a digital subscription to

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Monday, May 2, 2016

Write it down

Happy Monday friends.  Can you all believe it is May?!?!? With May comes Mother's Day next weekend and a time that we all reflect on being mothers and what really matters...being moms to our sweet kiddos!  One thing I just love is sitting down and looking back on pictures and stories about the kids from when they were younger.  One thing I've realized is that you think you will remember all of those special milestones or funny things kids say, but the truth is you won't.  Your life gets busy, you start in on a new stage of life with your kids and you just forget those sweet little details that were so important at the time.

Here is the real answer to remembering it all - WRITE IT DOWN!  Sounds simple, I know.  However, in our busy day-to-day lives, so many of us don't take the time to document and write down special little tidbits of information about our kids.  Maybe something funny they said, maybe the first time they rode their bike or learned to read.

There are lots of different journals that are made for just this reason and we share some of our favorites on Savvy Sassy Moms.  You can read all about them HERE.

A few other ways to document and write things down are popular sites that turn your Instagram and Facebook posts into books.  A quick internet search will provide tons of options.  Social media is such a big part of our lives and we do often post there so this provides a way to put all of those posts and pictures into print form.

Another way I like to document are through photo books on popular sites like Shutterfly.  Just having pictures that are off of your phone and in some sort of hard copy is better than nothing at all and adding quick captions are super easy!

My personal favorite is blogging.  No surprise there.  :-) Anyone can create a free blog and it is so simple to do.  I've had a personal blog since Little Mama was a baby.  For my family, it serves as sort of an online scrapbook and each year I turn it into a hardbound book.

I treasure these blog books so much.  They hold so many memories and information about my kids' childhoods.  We all love looking through them and as a mom I love reminiscing about my babies when they were just babies!

I used to use to make these books, but they no longer do it so I'm looking for another company.  I've heard of, but I'm open to others so if anyone has any suggestions I'm all ears!

No matter how you document your kids' lives and your journey as a mother, I urge you all to simple find a way to write it down!  You and your kids will thank you years from now!

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