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#Industrial Flooring in Lawton
atfoklahoma · 6 months
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ATF Oklahoma - Showcase of Our Premier Services
Welcome to ATF Oklahoma, your go-to destination for top-notch flooring services in Norman, Oklahoma, and beyond. Our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction makes us the premier choice for all your flooring needs. Let's explore the showcase of our exceptional services, with a special focus on Epoxy Kitchen Floors for residential spaces.
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Epoxy Kitchen Floors - Transforming Homes in Norman
Epoxy Kitchen Floor Residential in Miami:
Discover the epitome of style and durability with ATF Oklahoma's Epoxy Kitchen Floors. Our residential services extend to Miami, ensuring your kitchen floor is not only visually stunning but also resilient against daily wear and tear. Elevate the heart of your home with our expertly crafted epoxy flooring solutions.
Flooring Contractors in Miami:
Our team of skilled flooring contractors in Miami is dedicated to bringing your vision to life. From the initial consultation to the final installation, ATF Oklahoma ensures a seamless and stress-free experience. We prioritise quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, making us the preferred choice among flooring contractors in the Miami area.
Commercial Epoxy in Muskogee:
For businesses in Muskogee looking to make a lasting impression, ATF Oklahoma offers premier commercial epoxy solutions. Enhance the aesthetics and functionality of your commercial space with flooring that reflects professionalism and durability. Our expertise extends beyond residential projects to cater to the unique needs of Muskogee's commercial establishments.
Epoxy Kitchen Floor Residential in Mustang:
Mustang residents, enhance the beauty and functionality of your kitchen with our specialized Epoxy Kitchen Floors. ATF Oklahoma brings innovation and style to residential spaces, ensuring that your kitchen becomes a focal point of elegance and practicality.
Epoxy Kitchen Floor Residential in Newcastle:
Newcastle homeowners, experience the transformative power of ATF Oklahoma's Epoxy Kitchen Floors. Our residential services extend to your area, offering a range of customizable options to suit your aesthetic preferences and lifestyle. Elevate your kitchen with flooring that combines beauty and durability.
ATF Oklahoma - Your Trusted Flooring Partner
At ATF Oklahoma, our commitment goes beyond delivering exceptional flooring solutions. We pride ourselves on being a trusted partner for residents and businesses in Norman, Oklahoma, and surrounding areas. As you explore our showcase of premier services, rest assured that our team is dedicated to exceeding your expectations.
Visit our website at ATF Oklahoma to learn more about our services, browse our portfolio, and connect with our team. Experience the difference ATF Oklahoma brings to flooring, where style meets substance, and durability meets design. Your dream space is just a step away with ATF Oklahoma by your side.
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aion-rsa · 3 years
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From Skull Island to Godzilla vs. Kong: A Complete MonsterVerse Timeline
https://ift.tt/3wfhCfO
This feature contains Godzilla vs. Kong spoilers. Read our spoiler-free review here.
Despite existing for only four movies, Warner Bros. and Legendary Pictures’ MonsterVerse has become one of the densest and most colorful cinematic universes. It may not be as long (or smoothly executed) as Marvel Studios’ MCU, or as high-minded as WB’s own superhero stable, the DCEU, but the MonsterVerse has successfully crafted an interconnected world where Titans rule over all. The best we humans can do is make peace with that hard truth.
In this strange, fearful vision of a primal world, enormous behemoths the size of mountains are just another force of nature coming for you–and one that’s been here since the beginning. Below is a MonsterVerse timeline to show just how long that’s been the case.
More Than 10,000 Years Ago
While there are no exact dates for its rise and fall, below the Atlantic seafloor is a collapsed city with architecture reminiscent of ancient Egypt and Rome. We’re also told this civilization is “far older.” Ancient Egyptian civilization dates back to roughly 5,000 years ago, and the oldest city-state civilization is about 8,500 years old. But this a lost world has seniority over all, complete with its throne room for King Kong at the center of the Earth. (Godzilla: King of the Monsters, Godzilla vs. Kong).
Around 4,500 Years Ago
An extraterrestrial kaiju who humans would name King Ghidorah falls to Earth and does battle with Godzilla. Afterward the alien Titan is trapped in the ice of Antarctica. Multiple civilizations record fragments of their epic duel, including Egyptians around the time the Pyramids of Giza were built. (Godzilla: King of the Monsters)
Early 1940s
The USS Lawton is sunk by an unnamed kaiju, presumably during World War II. The events are covered up by the American government, but lone survivor Bill Randa becomes obsessed with chasing hidden monsters. (Kong: Skull Island)
1944
U.S. Army pilot Hank Marlow and Japanese pilot Gunpei Ikari crash land onto Skull Island. Their war ends the moment both men meet King Kong. (Kong Skull: Island)
1945
The U.S. drops nuclear bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan, ending World War II and ushering in the atomic age. Dr. Ishiro Serizawa’s father is killed in the Hiroshima blast, with his watch frozen at 8:16 A.M. (Godzilla)
1946
U.S. President Harry Truman secretly begins funding a new government program to monitor unidentified creatures: Monarch. (Kong: Skull Island)
1954
The USS Nautilus (named after 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea) becomes the first nuclear-powered submarine and dives to new depths in the Pacific Ocean, awakening the kaiju we call Godzilla. (Godzilla)
The U.S. military’s Operation Castle is revealed in the press to be a series of nuclear tests–beginning with Castle Bravo detonating the first thermonuclear weapon on Bikini Atoll. But in reality, this is a covert operation to kill Godzilla. The fallout from the blast on Bikini Atoll poisons a Japanese fishing vessel, killing one of the crew. (Godzilla)
Mid-Late 1950s
The U.S. government continues to “test” hydrogen bombs in the Pacific with the hope of killing Godzilla. Monarch becomes a multinational coalition with the objective to discover, monitor, and ideally kill giant monsters. They rename these creatures “Titans.” (Godzilla)
1973
Bill Randa leads a Monarch expedition with a U.S. Army escort to the mysterious Skull Island during the Vietnam War. They discover the great ape Kong and other Titans named Skullcrawlers. Most of the party, including Randa, are killed. But Hank Marlow is rescued 29 years after his plane crash. (Kong: Skull Island)
1999
An industrial strip mining operation in the Philippines accidentally discovers Titans—later dubbed MUTOs (Massive Unidentified Terrestrial Organisms)—when a cavern floor collapses. One MUTO escapes. (Godzilla)
The free male MUTO latches itself onto a nuclear power plant’s reactor in Janjira, Japan, triggering a barely contained meltdown. Five employees are killed, and Monarch covers up that the MUTO has permanently lodged itself to the reactor. It’s feeding. (Godzilla)
Read more
Movies
Godzilla vs. Kong: How Junkie XL Found New Themes for Monsters’ Soundtrack
By David Crow
Movies
Godzilla and King Kong Face Off in Monster Madness Final
By Alec Bojalad
2009
Dr. Nathan Lind’s older brother leads the first attempt to track a path from Antarctica to the Hollow Earth—a journey to the center of the Earth. The entire party dies upon discovering a gravitational inversion. (Godzilla vs. Kong)
2014
The MUTO in Janjira, Japan finishes feeding and attacks Honolulu, Hawaii. This catches the attention of the long unseen Godzilla. Titans become public knowledge. (Godzilla)
The thought-to-be dormant female MUTO awakens in the U.S. Energy Department’s nuclear disposal site in Nevada. It destroys Las Vegas and then draws the male MUTO and Godzilla to San Francisco. The lizard kills both MUTOs in an epic brawl. (Godzilla)
Monarch scientists Dr. Mark Russell and and Dr. Emma Russell lose their son in the devastation wreaked on San Francisco. (Godzilla: King of the Monsters)
2016
Mark and Emma Russell separate, and Emma begins developing the Orca, a device to communicate with Titans. (Godzilla: King of the Monsters)
2016-2018
Monarch discovers a Mothra egg, long worshipped by some East Asian communities, in the Yunnan Rainforest, China, as well as a sleeping dinosaur-like creature called “Rodan” in a volcano on the Isla de Mara, Mexico. They also discover “Monster Zero” (Ghidorah) in the Antarctic ice. Fourteen other Titans are likewise covered. Monarch returns to Skull Island. (Godzilla: King of the Monsters)
Read more
Movies
Godzilla: King of the Monsters – Complete Easter Eggs and Reference Guide
By Don Kaye and 1 other
Movies
The Weirdest Godzilla Moments from the Toho Movies
By James Hunt
2019
Emma Russell goes rogue and helps eco-terrorists steal the Orca device. Using the technology, they awaken Ghidorah and Rodan to cull polluting populations, but then Ghidorah seemingly awakens all Titans to destroy the planet. Dr. Ishiro Serizawa sacrifices himself to supercharge Godzilla with a nuclear bomb, and the big guy kills Ghidorah by essentially nuking Boston. All monsters now bow to Godzilla. (Godzilla: King of the Monsters)
Positive effects of the Titans’ rampage justify (to a precious few) Russell’s actions, including rainforests blossoming in the Sahara and ice sheets refreezing where monsters now trod. Another Mothra egg is discovered.
Seismic disturbances on Skull Island lead Monarch to discover Godzilla and Kong cave drawings beneath the island, suggesting rivalry. Soon perpetual storms kill almost all inhabitants and Titans. (Godzilla: King of the Monsters, Godzilla vs. Kong)
2020
Apex Cybernetics CEO Walter Simmons acquires the lone remaining Ghidorah skull and incorporates it into his developing Titan-killer, Mechagodzilla. (Godzilla vs. Kong)
2021
Dr. Nathan Lind and Dr. Ilene Andrews lead an expedition to the center of the Hollow Earth with King Kong as their guide. They discover an ancient world in Hollow Earth, complete with dinosaurs, a new nuclear power source, and a throne room for Kong. But by moving Kong off Skull Island they anger Godzilla. (Godzilla vs. Kong)
Godzilla begins attacking Apex facilities, sensing Mechagodzilla’s threat. Mechagodzilla becomes sentient and kills its creators. The machine is ultimately destroyed in the ruins of Hong Kong by new BFFs Godzilla and King Kong. (Godzilla vs. Kong)
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aymfitness · 3 years
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Meet Althea Lawton-Thompson of Aerobics, Yoga, & More in Gwinnett County
Today we’d like to introduce you to Althea Lawton-Thompson.
Aerobics, Yoga & More started in Baltimore, Maryland and was originally named Lifelines Fitness Consulting. Althea Lawton-Thompson, a faculty member for the American Council on Exercise (ACE), a continuing education provider for the American Fitness and Aerobics Association (AFAA) and a 200-hr. registered Yoga Teacher (RYT), founded the company in 1998 to take exercise classes and health workshops to companies and medical centers throughout Maryland and Washington DC. In 2001, Althea produced and released the first of six exercise videos in the Altheatized™ series and began presenting internationally on the fitness convention circuit. She was highlighted in magazines including best body, essence, parenting, upscale and oxygen. With a strong background in prenatal and youth wellness, Althea created programs for Sinai Hospital’s obstetric department and Johns Hopkins pediatric clinic in Baltimore. In 2003, the Altheatized television show appeared as a daily morning program and Althea became the weekend fitness expert on WBAL’s Channel 11 News in Baltimore, in addition to hosting a weekly NPR radio spot.
 In search of a more family-friendly environment, Althea decided to relocate her growing family and business to Atlanta in 2005 and officially changed the name of the company to Aerobics, Yoga & More. In 2008, AYM business associate, Yvonne Carroll also relocated from Maryland to Atlanta and together, Althea & Yvonne opened a 3-studio fitness facility in Stone Mountain, Georgia. One visit and you understood the AYM tag line, bringing a touch of the city to the suburbs. Natural bamboo floors, dimmable low-voltage track lighting, high loft ceilings, hand-crafted silk curtains and hangings and colors of the sunset and earth on the walls made up the organic feel of the AYM Studio. The studio and Althea were highlighted in several Atlanta and national magazines, including the May 2009 cover of Gwinnett’s Our Town Magazine. Atlanta’s Best Self Magazine listed her as “One of the best yoga instructors in Atlanta” in 2012. Sadly, that same year, Althea’s business partner, Yvonne, lost a 2-year battle with leukemia and that December, Althea decided to close the AYM doors.
Today, the energy, fun and fitness partnerships Althea and Yvonne created live on through the AYM Corporate Wellness program, annual AYM fitness retreats, instructor trainings and workshops. AYM boasts a list of more than 20 certified, insured and trained Yoga, Pilates and fitness instructors. Additionally, the company has degreed and licensed nutritionists, doctors and nurses available for health education workshops and cooking demonstrations. The company’s corporate client list includes Heidelberg USA, United Way of Greater Atlanta, Oglethorpe Power Corporation, Gwinnett County Public Schools and the DeKalb County Board of Health. Annual sold-out yoga and adventure retreats are held in Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, South Africa, the Georgia mountains, the Grand Canyon and throughout the Caribbean.
Has it been a smooth road?
Ha! There have been many challenges along the way. I am thankful for each and every one that enhanced my character, built my strength, taught me life lessons and makes me value “Living Life Limitlessly™” every single day.
I lost all of my savings on a botched first attempt at making my fitness video in 1998 and had to save for a year to try again. The 2nd attempt was filmed 3 days after the 9-11 terrorist attacks in DC, NY and Pennsylvania where we lived and worked. It was a stressful time for many reasons.
Two years after opening our studio (during one of the worst recessions of our time), my friend and studio manager was diagnosed with leukemia and spent 3 months in the hospital. I took over her shift at the studio, taught both of our classes, managed both of our households, taxied my children to their various events (husband worked out of town) and spent as many evenings at the hospital with Yvonne as I could. I lost a lot of weight, but I kept smiling. The smiles faded when Yvonne passed away March 2012 and the joy of running our studio faded, too. Yvonne was my sister and the studio was one of my children. I lost them both in less than a year.
I published my 2nd book, Twenty – The Twenty Most Important Lessons Learned in Twenty Years of Entrepreneurship, after going through some of the toughest times in my life and coming out smiling on the other end.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Aerobics, Yoga & More (a.k.a. AYM Fitness) story. Tell us more about the business.
Through AYM’s corporate wellness program, our certified, insured and trained Yoga, Pilates and Fitness Instructors provide exercise classes and fitness testing onsite for corporations, schools, medical facilities and religious institutions. The company’s degreed and licensed nutritionists, doctors and nurses provide health education workshops, medical screenings and cooking demonstrations.
Each year since 2010, Althea hosts multiple Yoga, wellness and adventure retreats to unique and exotic locations. Retreats have been held in Cape Town, South Africa; the Bahamas; the Puertorican rainforest; Las Vegas’s Canyon Ranch and the Grand Canyon; and the north Georgia Mountains. For 2018, AYM and Althea are hosting two retreats to Costa Rica (1 Yoga Healing and 1 Yoga adventure) and the 8th annual Georgia Mountain Yoga Retreat. Cabins are already selling for the 2019 Living Life Limitlessly cruise to Turks & Caicos and the Dominican Republic.
AYM is more than a Gwinnett County fitness company. AYM services more than the Atlanta Metro area. AYM is an international wellness company that is recognized for going beyond exercise and nutrition. Althea has legally trademarked the term “Living Life Limitlessly™” and made it a lifestyle that includes mental, emotional, spiritual and physical wellness for people of all ages from various ethnicities, religions, backgrounds and cultures.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
Technology is definitely our friend.
For twenty years, AYM instructors and educators have traveled to be onsite to teach and train. This year, AYM is launching Living Life Limitlessly™ University as a part of the online training program for AYM Fitness. There will be webinars and video learning in four “majors” or categories:
*Philosophy & Spirituality
*Mind-Body Health & Wellness
*Travel & Lifestyle
*Business & Entrepreneurship
 By adopting more of an online presence, Althea – AYM’s visionary – will be able to spend more time as a digital nomad exploring different countries to host more retreats.
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melvinfellerstuff · 5 years
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Melvin Feller Discusses Getting Rich in Today’s Economy and Becoming an Entrepreneur.
Melvin Feller Discusses Getting Rich in Todays Economy and Becoming an Entrepreneur.
  Melvin Feller Business Ministries Group in Burkburnett and Dallas Texas and Lawton Oklahoma. Our mission is to call and equip a generation of Christian entrepreneurs to do business as ministry. We provide workshops and resources that help companies discover how to do business God’s way. When the heart of a business is service rather than self it can be transformed into a fruitful business ministry earning a profit and being of service to the community and their customers. Melvin Feller is currently pursuing another graduate degree in business organizations.
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  That is what so many want. Right? I am certainly not going to lie and say it is not a whole lot better having lots of money. I had a whole lot of fun and loved my life when I was eating mustard and ketchup sandwiches and sleeping on the floor of a 3-bedroom apartment that housed several family members and me.
  The question everyone wants answered, is how to get there. There are ways to get there. However, there is not a template that works every time for everyone. It works sometimes. Getting there requires being ready when opportunity presents itself.
  IMHO, change and uncertainty create opportunity. Times like we are facing now, with many people facing financial uncertainty are perfect times to start on the road to getting ahead financially.
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First, here is WHAT NOT TO DO:
 There are no shortcuts. NONE. With all of this craziness in the stock and financial markets, there will be frauds popping up left and right. The less money you have, the more likely someone will come at you with some scheme. The schemes will guarantee returns, use multi-level marketing, or be something crazy that is now “backed by the US Government”. Please ignore them. Always remember this. If a deal is a great deal, they are not going to share it with you.
   I do not broadcast my great deals. I keep them all to myself. The second thing to remember is that if the person selling the deal was so smart, they would be rich beyond rich rather than trolling the streets looking to turn you into a sucker. There are no shortcuts.
  So what should you do to get rich?
  Save your money. Save as much money as you possibly can. Every penny you can. Instead of coffee, drink water. Instead of going to McDonalds, eat Mac and Cheese. Cut up your credit cards. If you use a credit card, you do not want to be rich. The first step to getting rich requires discipline. If you really want to be rich, you need to find the discipline, can you?
  If you can, you will quickly find that the greatest rate of return you will earn is on your own personal spending. Being a smart shopper is the first step to getting rich. Yeah you have to give things up and that does not work for everyone, particularly if you have a family. That is reality. However, whatever you can save, save it. As much as you possibly can. Then put it in 6 month CDs in the bank.  Look at buying real estate creatively with little or no money out of your pocket.  Learn to leverage.
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  The first step to getting rich is having cash available. You are not saving for retirement. You are saving for the moment you need cash. Buy and hold is a sucker’s game for you. This market is a perfect example. Right at the very moment when cash creates unbelievable opportunity, those who followed the buy and hold strategy have no cash. They cannot or will not sell into markets this low that kills the entire point of buy and hold. Those who have put their money in CDs sleep well at night and definitely have more money today than they did yesterday. Moreover, because they are smart, disciplined shoppers, their personal rate of inflation is within their means. Cash is king for those wanting to get rich
  The second rule for getting rich is getting smart. Investing your time in yourself and becoming knowledgeable about the business of something you really love to do
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  It does not matter what it is. Whatever your hobbies, interests, passions are. Find the one you love the best and GET A JOB in the business that supports it.
 It could be as a clerk, a salesperson, whatever you can find. You have to start learning the business somewhere.  Instead of paying to go to school somewhere, you are being paid to learn.  It may not be the perfect job, but there is no perfect path to getting rich.
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 Before or after work and on weekends, every single day, read everything there is to read about the business. Go to trade shows, read the trade magazines, spend a lot of time talking to the people you do business with about their business and the people they buy from.
  This is not a short-term project. We are not talking days. We are not talking months. We are talking years. Lots of years and maybe decades. I did not say this was a get rich quick scheme. This is a get rich path
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 Now you wait for times of uncertainty and change in your business. The time will come. It may come quickly; it may take years and years. However, it will come. The nature of our country’s business infrastructure is that it is destined to be boom and bust. Booms are when the smart people sell. Busts are when rich people started on their path to wealth.
  You will know when that time is here for you because you will know your business inside and out. You will be ready because you will have been saving up for this moment in time
 With all the change and uncertainty in the financial markets, there are people right now making more money than they ever dreamed of. They are the ones who have been living the real estate market and the financing behind it and understanding what actually what was going on. They are the one who understood the complexities of the credit markets. When everyone was following the crowd, they kept on saving their money and avoiding the temptation of groupthink.
  Boom and busts happen to every industry. The question is whether you have the discipline to be ready when it happens for you?
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 Melvin Feller Business Consultants Ministries Group in Texas and Oklahoma. Melvin Feller founded Melvin Feller Business Consultants Group Ministries in the 1970s to help individuals and organizations achieve their specific Victory. Victory as defined by the individual or organization are achieving strategic objectives, exceeding goals, getting results or desired outcomes. He has extensive experience assisting businesses achieve top and bottom line results. He has broad practical experience creating WINNERS in many organizations and industries. He has hands-on experience in executive leadership, operations, logistics, sales, program management, organizational development, training and customer service. He has coached teams to achieve results in strategic planning, business development, organizational design, sales, and customer response and business process improvement. He has prepared and presented many workshops nationally and
Melvin Feller Business Organization Graduate                internationally.
Candidate, Business Owner and Business Coach
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Window Washing For A better Look Out On the World
Window Washing For A greater Look Out At the World
We might clear them regularly, maybe even several times every week however there are still going to be occasions when more specific cleaning is required. In any office space, there are also restrooms and break areas. Usually, fascia, eaves, and foundation areas endure first. First you need to determine an hourly price on your services that will suit what you are promoting, and the number of billable hours each week, month and 12 months you need to maintain your corporation afloat. The draw back of beginning any enterprise is that you simply want some cash to buy all of the wanted instruments. Writer: Paul Stanton Are you able to operating your own property maintenance business? For warehouse upkeep activities, it is suggested that you purchase energy cleaning techniques with high flow charges of 5 GPM and stress ranges of about 3000 PSI. Many individuals in Palm Beach County, will always have a number of questions regarding maintenance.
Gutter Cleaning Alexandria
All of them have glass and all of them have to look sharp. Another nice purpose to rent an organization that offers home cleaning services in Lawton, Ok is the truth that they have professional cleaners to make sure a top quality result. For those who do all the cleaning yourself, chances are you'll not get the same satisfying outcomes. Positive, some can get away with names like, “Smith & Sons Cleansing Co.”, however you are able to do higher than that! These machines can blast away almost all varieties of graffiti and stains. Business stress washers shoot water at pressures starting at 1500 psi which isn’t too destructive but they will go upwards of 3300 psi which will blast via strong wood, asphalt and even concrete (I’ve done it) if they’re close enough. Clean windows can make your own home brighter and improve its total appearance. To save lots of energy, time and money, it is always suggested to go for an expert power washing company making certain a perfectly clean, shiny and lovely residence. Individuals who can write good English can earn cash writing for revenue share sites or flat price fee websites. Save yourself time, effort, cash and FRUSTRATION!
Thermographers used infrared cameras and thermal imaging to identify potential issues with a building’s operation. read: http://boulderemergencyhomerepai47923.tinyblogging.com/Top-latest-Five-Gutter-Cleaning-Company-Urban-news-19528218Leaking issues in a storage can be plentiful. An one step at a how do coupons twin time or can avail them severally. Keep your floor-cleaning supplies in a single place and solely take them out when you need to make use of them. Energy pressure washers for house use are pushed primarily by electric or gasoline. Nonetheless, low to mid-power strain washers can be found which are designed to be used on sensitive surfaces, as well as surfaces that are vulnerable to water damage. Lastly you may consider doing water or smoke damage restoration. What Are Sash Home windows And Exactly Why Might Somebody Need Them? Some belongings you may consider during your search is how long the company has been around and what type of customer support they offer. Effectively definitely you understand a bunch of people living somewhere inside your service space. At Mr. Window Cleaner, top-notch customer support is our prime priority.
Local Gutter cleaning
When you are searching for the information about window cleaning The Woodlands TX locals ought to go to the web pages on-line right here right now. Not solely is window cleaning nice for residential properties - to stand out amongst the neighbours - however can really make a big impact on business properties and shopfronts. The water circulate score determines how a lot water a particular pressure washer can output. Equally durable tools are greatest for industrial, automotive contractors and homeowners users in addition to for pressure washing companies. Tedious though this activity is, homeowners are clever to not neglect it: Correctly functioning gutters, in any case, assist ensure that storm water does not discover its manner inside. The primary focus is to stage a house in such a manner that it offers welcoming and interesting look to a house buyer. You could possibly be dwelling and listen to my hit. Leaf Relief is a good product with an excellent warranty. Publisher: Adrienn Porta With the Toyota Prius being named essentially the most gas efficient car in the U.S. Writer: Aashi Khattar As everyone knows boating is a luxurious passion as a boat is actually a luxury to possess. The electric motor has the benefits of being quiet and fairly cell.
Professional Gutter cleaning
In addition to the benefits of having a large choice of designs, kinds, colors and sizes, tilt turn home windows are additionally very energy efficient. The key types are powered by gasoline, electrical energy and hydraulics. The plumbing system is a posh network of appliances, pipes, and parts which are fragile and have to be properly maintained. A registry cleaner scans identifies and fixes the bugs which might be contained in your operating system registry. Different details are available over the Web that can assist you resolve on which weight loss plan is finest for you, in addition to which workouts works finest along with your physique. Wood is actually simple and easy to work with, thus, it can be utilized by both beginners and professionals. The caregiver can be a companion for assembly medical appointments. If that is you and you dont like heights, then a fast search on the internet will quickly discover a local gutter cleaning company.
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charlesccastill · 7 years
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HFF announces $144.5 million sale of 217-unit luxury apartment community in Boston
BOSTON– Holliday Fenoglio Fowler, L.P. announced the $144.5 million sale of New Boston Fund’s, The Tower at One Greenway, a newly-constructed, 217-unit luxury apartment community in downtown Boston.
The HFF team marketed the property on behalf of the seller.
Completed in 2015, The Tower at One Greenway is a LEED Silver®-certified, 21-story trophy apartment tower with 3,180 square feet of retail and a 135-space underground parking garage.  Units average 822 square feet and are offered in 23 different open-layouts with chef-style kitchens, GE stainless Energy StarTM appliances, built-in pantries, in-unit washers and dryers, walk-through closets and keyless entry.
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One Greenway
Top floor units are equipped with personal balconies, floor-to-ceiling glass and GE Café series appliances.  Residents have access to a top-of-the-line amenity package that includes a rooftop terrace with fire pits; an outdoor park with deck and grills; balcony lounge with 80” TV, 11th floor resident lounge with billiards and entertainment bar; fitness center, yoga studio, K9000 Turbo Dog Wash, bike store and electric car charging stations.
Additionally, BeanTowne Coffee is situated directly off the lobby.  The property’s location at 99 Kneeland Street places it within walking distance of Boston’s major destinations and provides residents with unparalleled access to public transit at South Station, the MBTA Red and Orange Lines as well as immediate access to Interstates 93 and 90.
“The unprecedented demand for Boston residential real estate made now the opportune time for us to sell the Tower at One Greenway,” said Jim Kelleher, Chief Investment Officer at New Boston Fund. “New Boston is extremely proud of its role in transforming the former Parcel 24 site into One Greenway and we appreciate the contributions of our many partners made throughout the course of this project.”
The HFF investment advisory team included executive managing director Matthew Lawton, senior managing director Riaz Cassum, managing director Chris Phaneuf and senior director Mark Campbell.
New Boston is an independent, privately owned real estate investment manager and an industry leader in providing real estate investment, development and management services with a history of strong sponsorship and oversight of its investment funds. New Boston has developed or acquired commercial and residential properties with a cumulative market value of about $3.5 billion, including 23 million square feet of commercial real estate and 7,500 residential units.  Its investment vehicles cater to institutional and high-net worth investors by offering value-add and urban real estate investment funds with a focus on diversification and capital preservation.
from Boston Real Estate http://bostonrealestatetimes.com/hff-announces-144-5-million-sale-of-217-unit-luxury-apartment-community-in-boston/
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topicprinter · 4 years
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Scroll down your Facebook feed, and you’ll most likely see friends experimenting with some new hobby or project you might’ve never expected. They’re baking artisan breads, building tool sheds, playing with watercolors. Who knew your network was full of eccentric characters? It turns out being stuck at home brought out the creatives in many of us. On one hand, we’re figuring out how to be more self-sufficient out of necessity. On the other hand, we’ve become more curious about topics outside of our typical realm. Is it any wonder we’re experiencing an online learning boom?Even before the pandemic, industry analysts had predicted the e-learning market to exceed $300 billion by 2025, pointing to course diversification as a competitive advantage. Now the market is even more hungry for online courses that are off the beaten path. “Harvard University free courses” ranked as one of the most popular Google searches lately, but a recent deep dive into Google Trends also shows search increases in topics you might’ve never guessed: “fashion styling online course” was up 2,250%, “online art history course” was up 400% increase, and “online acrylic nail course” was up 120%.If you’re thinking your expertise isn’t “mainstream” enough to earn profits, think again.Of course, market demand is critical. But the more “under the radar” your course idea is, the easier it will be for you to stand out. Think about it: people are out there searching for the very topic you were born to teach. We’ve scoured the internet, keyword search tools, and our very own Kajabi user database to handpick 10 unconventional niches in high demand right now. Hear it straight from Kajabi Heroes who have made it work for them:​1.HomesteadingFor city folks craving a slower paced, secluded lifestyle, the idea of living off the land might seem idyllic. They might picture Little House on the Prairie, the shabby chic farmhouse kitchens on Instagram, or the YouTube videos on growing vegetables at home. They have a lot to learn to make the pioneer lifestyle a reality. If you’re knowledgeable about subsistence farming, living off the grid, or living self-sufficiently, people are searching for your course.“There is a myth that only certain subjects and categories of content lend themselves to being taught online. Permaculture, an environmental science that is very much hands-on, tactile, and visceral, would seem to be a poor fit for virtual instruction,” said Mohamed Marei, cofounder of Accolade Consulting Group, a strategy firm that worked with renowned permaculturist Geoff Lawton to create “Discover Permaculture” on Kajabi. “But our experience suggests that—with rigorous instructional design, a fanatical commitment to the learning experience of our community of students, a bit of ingenuity, the right mix of technical solutions, and above all, a fantastic team—almost any topic can be taught online."Marei confirmed that each of the permaculture course launches have hit the seven-figure mark.Monthly global Google search volumeshomestead: 90,000sustainable living: 27,100off the grid:  27,100​Online dating and relationshipsWith the widespread isolation, more people are craving human connection—romance in particular. Match Group, the online dating giant that owns Tinder, Match.com, Hinge, and others, reported significant upticks in activity since the pandemic. At Tinder, the number of conversations, as well as the length of conversations, have spiked up to 30%, particularly among users under 30 years old. What if they could use some help setting up their profile? What if they had no idea what to say once the conversation starts? Could you be the savior to awkward online daters?Kate Mansfield, a dating and relationship coach in the UK, says she’s learned that selling a high-ticket course is “much easier” than a cheap one. The Kajabi Hero earns on average £40k per month.“The common misconception is that spiritual and personal coaching offers are harder to sell because there isn’t a clear financial gain to the outcome,” which Kate added, “is absolutely not true.” “If you can get people past their fear and coping strategies,” she said, “you can charge whatever you like, because ultimately true love is a priceless outcome.”Monthly global Google search volume for:online dating: 60,500dating coach: 3,600 relationship coach: 1,900​Personality coachingIn times of chaos, people are naturally inclined to turn inward. More people are taking the time to assess their relationships, careers, and lifestyles. What’s life going to be like after the hard times are over? Personality tests like the DISC assessment, Myers–Briggs, and the Enneagram are helping people who seek clarity.If you’re a psychologist, life coach, or career counselor with expertise on personality-based assessments, your online course could help thousands of people going through major life transitions. Maybe they need a push in the right direction. And maybe your course is exactly what they need. Monthly global Google search volume for personality test: 301,000Enneagram: 201,000personality type: 135,00​Home improvement projectsThe home improvement industry is booming right now. Suddenly, property owners are motivated to paint the walls, install new floors, and anything else to freshen up outdated looks. Those long lines you might’ve seen outside of Home Depot or Lowes are becoming more common. In a recent two-week period tracking social media posts about home renovation ideas, an Ameritrade article documented a significant spike doubling normal levels.Starr Tingle, owner of Sanctuary Homes and Remodeling, says the demand for home remodeling services has definitely blown up lately. “All these people are stuck in their home and they’re looking at it, thinking, ‘Why have I been putting up with this crappy 1980s bathroom?’ Or, ‘My kitchen’s not functional. It’s dark. It’s out of style,’” she said.Starr is building an online course on Kajabi, focused on how to be your own general contractor managing a remodel. “If they knew how to run the project themselves,” she explained, “they could literally save thousands.”If you’re a master at managing remodels or skilled at any type of DIY home project, people are looking to learn from you.Monthly global Google search volume for bathroom remodel: 135,000kitchen remodel: 90,000carpentry: 110,000woodworking: 29,900​Dog trainingIf you’ve ever considered starting an online dog training course, the numbers are strongly in your favor:68% of US households have at least one petUS pets include 90 million dogsExpect to see those numbers continue to climb. A big portion of non-pet owners either want or plan to have a pet in the future, according to the American Pet Products Association. Connie Cleveland, dog training expert and founder of The Obedience Road, has observed a big spike in new email subscribers lately. She’s been making a push to publish free content on Kajabi. “Just because there are no competitions to go to, no classes to go to, we can band together,” she said. “We can watch videos, we can do lots of stuff at home to make sure that they're still having fun training their dog.” Connie hopes that her free content will eventually steer people into joining her paid membership site, but she adds, “Right now, it's about how I can serve them in this current climate.”Monthly global Google search volume for:dog training: 110,000pet care: 14,800​Specialty photography As the pace of life has slowed down, people are giving a closer look to their surroundings and documenting through photography. They’re capturing new sights like mountains once shrouded by smog, coyotes wandering city streets, clear highways. Even banana bread fresh out of the oven has become photo-worthy. People are discovering beauty around them and they’re eager to share. That widespread interest poses a huge opportunity for photography teachers who specialize in landscapes, food, wildlife, and more.Michael Greenberg, a photographer who partners with other photographers to create online courses on Kajabi, believes in the power of teaching highly specialized courses such as landscape photography. One of his courses teaches night sky photography with an iPhone.“‘How to take pictures with an iPhone’ is hard to sell. There’s too much competition in that field because it’s too broad,” Michael said. “No matter how many free tutorials online you can find, if you sell a high-quality product, there will always be someone who wants to purchase it.”So far, landscape photography has proven to be a winning niche for Michael. One course had generated $105,00 from January to late April. His second course had earned $59,000 plus additional monthly subscriptions—in one month alone.“Every single person photographs sunsets and sunrises,” Michael said. “Nature appeals to a much broader audience—women, men, young old.”Monthly global Google search volume for:food photography: 14,800landscape photography: 27,100wildlife photography: 74,000boudoir photography: 74,000​Homeschooling (any subject)Long before stay-at-home orders, homeschooling in the US had been growing steadily since the 1990s, up to 3% of K-12 students nationwide. Now, parents have been thrust into this new world and struggling to adapt: “How do I get my high-energy kid to focus?” “How can I keep all of my kids occupied while I work?”If you’ve been in the trenches as a school teacher or educator of any kind, the time to start your online course for K-12 kids is now. Whether you teach science or woodworking, as long as you can make learning fun and interactive online, there’s a good chance a parent is looking for your expertise.Jamie Heston, a homeschool consultant and board member of The Homeschool Association of California, advises online course creators to actively market their courses directly to parents by searching for homeschool communities on Facebook Groups and Google Groups. “There’s a lot of interest, but also a lot of options right now,” Jamie said. “If your course is good, it will catch fire. It only takes a few homeschoolers enjoying your class to talk about it in these online communities.”Jamie recommends that course creators categorize their courses not necessarily by age, but by ability. Learning with a multigenerational group can lead to a meaningful experience for everyone.Melissa Norris teaches people how to raise, preserve, and cook their own organic food through her Kajabi site.“People from all walks of life, age, and location—kids at home to grandparents—are eager to learn how to grow and preserve their own food,” she said. “ Many felt isolated in their desire to do so and creating a virtual space truly makes us connected.”Monthly global Google search volume for homeschooling: 74,000​Adventure sports With the travel industry on hold and in-person training not an option, the adrenaline sports junkies are itching to spend time outdoors. They’re ready to learn techniques from the pros and spend hours practicing. Mountain bikers will always remember their first wheelie, and surfers will remember the first time they got barreled. How amazing would it feel knowing you taught those techniques to someone, maybe even the younger version of you?Monthly global Google search volume for:mountain biking: 450,000skateboarding: 33,100surfing: 90,500​Feng ShuiIn turbulent times, people seek new ways to achieve balance however they can. The philosophy of feng shui, which influences interior design and architecture in parts of Asia, is about creating balance, encouraging happiness, and clearing stagnant energy. As people are spending countless hours at home these days, they’re seeking new ways to transform their surroundings into a sanctuary.Amanda Collins, founder of the International School of Feng Shui, teaches the ancient art of Feng Shui and offers a master certification to become a Feng Shui consultant.From her home in Ireland, which sits at the base of a mountain surrounded by rivers and forests, Amanda coaches students from all over the world using Kajabi. Her students are based in Egypt, Dubai, the US, and throughout Europe.“Obviously, there’s something really special about teaching people in person,” said Amanda, who typically hosts in-person events twice a year. But her online courses allow her to be more accessible to students. People tell her they simply can’t get away, whether because they have young children or they can’t afford to travel, she explained.“I feel like when I create something online, it can affect people infinitely because people can keep watching it, keep spreading it, and learning it,” she said. “I think that’s such a gift.”Amanda has grown revenues from her online business by 25-30% every year.Monthly global Google search volume for Feng Shui: 135,000​Sewing, knittingTraditional arts and crafts are making a big comeback among young adults who are most likely drawn to the tactile nature of sewing and knitting—an experience that smartphones and laptops can’t offer. Creative hobbyists have discovered the freedom that comes with stepping away from the noise, working with their hands, and getting into a flow. As more digital natives continue to take over the crafting market, online crafting courses will become even more popular. According to the Association for Creative Industries, the majority of crafters (41%) are 18-34 years old and the next largest group (36%) are 35-54 years old.Sarah Vedeler, chief designer at Meaning of Life Designs, teaches how to design quilts and embroidery appliqué on Kajabi. “In the beginning, getting in front of the camera was terrifying! I would procrastinate for days,” she said. Sarah discovered a simple trick that helped her overcome procrastination: having her lighting boom arms permanently mounted on her wall, and having a camera set up on a tripod in the same exact place. Each time, filming her course gets easier. And over the long run, her online business has grown more profitable.“My first complete year using Kajabi had revenues almost double that of the previous year,” Sarah said.Monthly global Google search volume for:sewing: 201,000embroidery: 165,000knitting: 74,000​These 10 unconventional niches, along with real success stories, are a small sampling that prove you can succeed in almost any area. The internet connects us from across the globe. If you’re passionate and knowledgeable in a certain area, you’ll most likely find others want to learn from you.No matter what you’re teaching, here’s one last tip from Shanna B. Tiayon, cofounder of Black Suburban Homestead: “Design your course to meet people where they are. It’s about education for self-empowerment!” 
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atfoklahoma · 6 months
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Transforming Miami Kitchens with Durable Industrial Flooring
Introduction:
In the vibrant city of Miami, where the culinary scene is as diverse as its culture, homeowners are constantly seeking innovative ways to enhance their kitchens. One key element that often goes overlooked is the flooring. Today, we'll explore the importance of industrial flooring for kitchens in Miami, and how it can revolutionize your cooking space.
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The Need for Resilient Residential Flooring:
Miami's kitchens are bustling hubs of activity, and it's crucial to have flooring that can withstand the demands of daily life. For residents in Piedmont, Muskogee, Mustang, Newcastle, Noble, Okmulgee, Owasso, Pauls Valley, Perry, finding the right residential flooring is essential. Whether you're cooking up a storm or entertaining guests, your Kitchen Floor should be both stylish and durable.
Epoxy Kitchen Floor Residential in Muskogee:
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Discovering the Benefits of Industrial Flooring:
Industrial flooring is designed to endure heavy foot traffic and resist wear and tear. In a city like Miami, where the kitchen is the heart of the home, choosing industrial flooring brings several advantages:
Durability: Industrial flooring, particularly epoxy coatings, is known for its longevity. It can withstand the rigors of daily use, ensuring your kitchen floor remains in top condition for years.
Easy Maintenance: Cleaning up spills and messes is a breeze with industrial flooring. Its smooth and seamless surface makes it easy to wipe away stains, ensuring a hygienic cooking environment. Customization: Industrial flooring allows for a range of design possibilities. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern look or a more classic aesthetic, you can customize your kitchen floor to complement your style.
Exploring Residential Flooring Options in Piedmont:
Residents in Piedmont can now elevate their kitchens with a variety of residential flooring options. By considering industrial flooring solutions, you not only enhance the functionality of your space but also add a touch of sophistication to your home.
Conclusion:
For those in Muskogee, Newcastle, and beyond, the journey to a stylish and durable kitchen floor begins with exploring industrial flooring options. As you embark on this transformative process, remember to visit ATF Oklahoma's website for expert guidance and a wide range of flooring choices. Elevate your kitchen experience in Piedmont, Muskogee, Mustang, Newcastle, Noble, Okmulgee, Owasso, Pauls Valley, Perry with the perfect blend of style and resilience.
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biofunmy · 5 years
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After Being Pushed Out Of A Shell Oil Refinery Due To Harassment, Ciara Newton Pushed Back
OAKLAND, California — She walked toward the witness stand at eight months pregnant, her slow steps echoing in the cavernous federal courtroom.
Two years earlier, she had been fired from her dream job at a Shell refinery after enduring months of harassment — sexist comments from two male supervisors, reprimands for documenting her coworkers’ mistakes, a lewd sticker on her desk. She got the termination notice just days before the end of her job’s nine-month probation period. The fallout was devastating. She lost the loan needed to buy her recently widowed mother’s house, spiraled into depression and anxiety, and ended up working at an airline two hours from her home for half the pay.
The oil and gas industry is one of the last bastions of male-dominated work, with nearly four times as many men as women. Several of the biggest companies, including Shell, Chevron, and ExxonMobil, have launched splashy campaigns over the past decade to recruit more women and close the gender gap. But these efforts haven’t accomplished much. There is little doubt, lawyers and women in the industry say, that sexual and gender-based harassment remains rampant. And yet Big Oil has received surprisingly little scrutiny in the #MeToo era, partly because it’s difficult to gauge the scale of the problem. For example, 11 states, representing about a third of US refineries, and the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission said their rules bar releasing the number of gender discrimination and harassment complaints filed against specific refineries.
Over the past five years, 25 lawsuits alleging gender discrimination, harassment, or retaliation have been filed against oil refineries, according to a BuzzFeed News and Type Investigations review of federal and California court documents. Only three of those cases have made it to trial.
One took place last December, on the fourth floor of the federal district court in downtown Oakland. When the pregnant plaintiff took the stand, she looked out on a largely empty room. To her far left sat two lawyers representing the American subsidiary of Royal Dutch Shell, the multinational oil giant that last year posted revenues of $396.5 billion, and the woman from human resources who had fired her. Next to her was her own legal team, a trio of lawyers working on the expectation that if they won, Shell would pay the bulk of their fees.
She raised her right hand, swore to tell the truth, and took a seat, her long brown hair dangling down her shoulder. The court clerk told her to pull the microphone close and state her name.
“My name,” she said softly, “is Ciara Newton.”
The 131 oil refineries across the US are dangerous, dirty, and physically demanding places to work. Of the roughly 70,000 people employed at those sprawling facilities, only about 12,000 — or 17% — are women. Newton acutely felt this disparity when she started working at Shell’s Martinez refinery, located across the bay from San Francisco. In her department of about 60 people, she was one of just four women.
Over the past decade, oil and gas companies have invested in recruiting and retaining more women: featuring women’s faces in ads, videos, and social media posts; increasing maternity leave; spending millions on programs to get girls into math and science; setting recruitment targets; and instituting internal mentorship programs.
The industry is expecting more than a million new jobs to open up in the coming decades, and “we can’t fill all those opportunities with white men,” said Rebecca Winkel, an economic adviser at the trade group American Petroleum Institute. After commissioning an initial study on the participation of women and people of color in the industry, API has spent millions on outreach and recruiting efforts targeting these groups, Winkel said.
Shell has also taken steps in the past few years to woo women, such as boosting the gender balance on its board from 10 men and 1 woman to 6 men and 5 women. (The trend is less clear at the employee level, where 27,000 women made up 29% of the company in 2013, and 25,000 women made up 31% in 2018.) Shell was also the first major oil company to set a minimum maternity leave of 16 weeks, effective as of 2018. That year, its CEO, Ben van Beurden, joined Catalyst CEO Champions for Change, a group of company leaders — including the head of Chevron — pledging to boost women’s participation across the workplace. In the same vein, the Martinez refinery changed the profile picture on its Facebook page to a smiling woman wearing a standard operator uniform of bright-red coveralls, hard hat, and safety goggles.
“Tell Sheila to send us pictures of her tits.”
But such policies often can’t overcome a lopsided gender imbalance. “Once you don’t have a gender mix in the workplace, people seem to behave less well,” said Keith Rohman, founder of Public Interest Investigations, a group hired by companies to investigate internal complaints. In his experience investigating complaints at firehouses, for example, a ratio of less than 1 in 4 women leads to a big uptick in harassment. “In a largely male-dominated workplace, it’s hard for women. It just is.”
Women in the industry — especially those who work hard-hat or laboratory jobs, worlds away from corporate suites — say that policies from on high meant to protect them often don’t trickle down. “Shell has a wonderful policy,” Rachel Price, who works in a lab at Shell’s refinery in Anacortes, Washington, and is suing over pay discrimination, told BuzzFeed News. “But it really has not trickled down to our level yet, or our plant.”
Nearly a dozen women refinery workers, employed by five companies, told BuzzFeed News they were attracted to the industry by the high pay and benefits, only to be driven out by harassment and discrimination. Some of them have shocking stories.
Shari Lawton, who was an operator at Tesoro’s Wilmington, California, refinery (now operated by Marathon), said she was asked for sexual favors by coworkers, one of whom exposed his penis to her at work. After she reported this behavior, according to her complaint, her locker was broken into, her work boots urinated on, and a dead mouse hidden in her uniform. She now works as a manager at a 99 Cents Only Store.
At an ExxonMobil refinery in Illinois, Amy Phillips, a lesbian and the only woman on her crew, said she was shoulder-checked by a male colleague and repeatedly found hateful graffiti about her on refinery equipment, such as “Amy Lazy Gay Bitch” and “Die Amy Fag Rat Bitch.” After she complained, “it got much worse,” Phillips told BuzzFeed News. She’s now on medical leave.
And Sheila Babot said that at the Shell Martinez refinery, at the same time Newton was there, a male coworker told her that if there was a spill, she should take off all her clothes and use the safety shower in front of the team. He also allegedly spoke about her in the men’s locker room, saying things such as, “Tell Sheila to send us pictures of her tits” and “Too bad Sheila’s married; maybe she’ll give us all blow jobs.” Babot said she was fired after complaining; the company blamed it on poor performance. Now she is a government analyst.
Lawton, Phillips, and Babot all took the rare step of suing their former employers. A search of federal court records in all 30 oil-refining states and two California county courts near refining hubs found 25 lawsuits over the past five years charging refineries with sexual harassment, gender discrimination, retaliation, or a combination of these. Six were dismissed because of insufficient evidence; seven were settled, including Lawton’s, often with nondisclosure agreements binding the women to silence; two were resolved in arbitration; six are ongoing, including Phillips’s and Babot’s cases; and the resolution of one could not be confirmed. In another case, two women lost at trial to Shell, appealed, and are heading back to court. Another woman lost against Shell in April. And then there’s Newton.
This is likely just the tip of the iceberg. Some women likely never come forward, due to shame or fear of retaliation, and others do it too late, after the statute of limitations to sue has passed. Even filing a claim with a state equal employment agency can be daunting because you’re taking a stand against not just an individual or several people but your company. Texas, home to more refineries than any other state, reported only “three or less” complaints over the last five years. Suing is much more grueling. The legal process can take years, and listening to coworkers and lawyers rip into you in a public trial is emotionally wrenching. And oil giants have vast resources. Often they file motion after motion, discovery request after discovery request. “It gets so expensive,” said Brandon Schwartz, a Minnesota-based employment discrimination lawyer who in 2015 settled a discrimination claim against a subsidiary of Koch Industries, the $110 billion refining and manufacturing company. That company, he said, was “trying to make it financial suicide to bring a claim against them.”
In written statements, Chevron, ExxonMobil, Marathon, and Phillips 66 all told BuzzFeed News they do not tolerate discrimination or harassment in the workplace. Koch Industries did not respond to a request for comment.
To fight Newton’s claims, Shell hired Gary Lafayette, of the Oakland-based law firm Lafayette and Kumagai. He has represented the Coca-Cola Company and Comcast and received the California Lawyer Attorney of the Year Award in 2002. As her lead lawyer, Newton hired Sonya Smallets, of the San Francisco–based firm Minnis and Smallets, who has spent more than a decade representing people facing discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in the workplace.
On the second day of Newton’s trial, both legal teams were so combative that Judge Yvonne Rogers reprimanded them, reminding both sides that they were in federal court and to show more decorum. She later scolded them for repeatedly raising objections to the point of slowing the interrogations of multiple witnesses to a crawl. Throughout the trial, when Lafayette leveled an accusation at Newton, he’d often turned away from the judge and jury to look directly at her.
But Newton didn’t flinch, and she didn’t settle.
Courtesy of Ciara Newton
Ciara Newton and her father, who spent decades as a pipe fitter and ironworker.
Newton had dreamed of working at a refinery, just like her father, ever since she was a teenager.
She told the jury her dad spent decades as a pipe fitter and ironworker, a job that took him to many of the East Bay oil refineries, including Shell’s Martinez. Newton remembered seeing pictures of him working on pipes and other structures, way up high, and thinking that it looked fun. But when she raised the idea of joining him after high school, he urged her to try something else first. It was a “rough environment” for women, he said. His message was clear: The industry was sexist.
She initially heeded this warning, working as a dental assistant for $18 an hour. But without a college degree, the refinery’s entry-level wage of $31.17 an hour — with the chance to advance and earn much more — lured her into a training program and then a job at Shell. She started as a process operator, one of only four women in the group of 22 new hires, at the Martinez refinery in January 2016.
Every day at the refinery about 165,000 barrels of crude oil — nearly 7 million gallons — are converted into more useful products, including asphalt, gasoline, and jet fuel. Refining happens around the clock. The facilities can be so big, workers use bikes or cars to get around. Some of the equipment is so bulky, handling it is rarely a solo job. Because the work is complicated and risky, new operators go through months of training, initially together in an eight-week orientation, and then dispersed in small teams.
Newton comfortably passed orientation. She was a quick learner, a team player, and safety conscious, according to reviews from her managers. She was the only woman recruit assigned to the hydrogen plant in the Operations Central department, or OPCEN, and immediately felt unwelcome. Days before starting the new post, she overheard OPCEN instructor Jeffrey Fischer curse upon learning whom he’d be training: “Motherfucker! Who the hell did I piss off to have these assholes coming to my department?”
Fischer fixated on Newton early on, asking who hired her and telling her, “Looks like you sure put on a good show.” He would repeatedly say, “Women don’t make it in OPCEN”; threaten to walk Newton “to the gate,” a euphemism for firing; boast about previously firing a crying woman operator; and publicly say she “wasn’t mechanically inclined.”
When Newton’s father suddenly died in March 2016, causing her to miss a week of work, Fischer said he didn’t have time to catch her up. After that, he graded her tests more harshly, didn’t put her on a particular team because “they already had a girl” (referring to a man who “bitches all the time”), and made her redo her certification paperwork for reasons even his bosses later said they did not understand.
“If your pussy hurts just stay home.”
After getting certified five months into the job, Newton was assigned a shift and a new supervisor, Cameron Curran. He, too, treated her differently than her male coworkers, following her around the unit and asking her: Why do you want to work here? What does your husband think? Are you scared?
In July, Curran reprimanded her for formally documenting a dangerous acid spill in one of her shift reports. “Are you trying to get people in trouble?” he asked. It’s better to handle these situations in person, he added, lest she get a reputation for being a “rat.” Intimidated, Newton deleted the spill from the report.
About a week after that conversation, unbeknownst to Newton, Curran made seven entries into her formal record regarding tardiness and mistakes she had allegedly made over the span of three days. He had never written her up before. Curran also flagged her performance to his boss, Eric Perez, who opened an investigation with HR. When Curran told Newton about the entries a week later, she complained about unfair treatment in a group meeting, which prompted a formal sit-down with HR, Perez, and two of Newton’s union reps.
Newton thought the purpose of the meeting was to air her claims of unfair treatment. Upon learning it would instead be a review of her work performance, the union sent two people to help advocate on her behalf.
Five people packed into a small office on the morning of Aug. 2. Perez kicked off the discussion with a review of Newton’s attendance record, claiming she had been late six times in five weeks, while her peers had not been late more than once. (It’s unclear why he only looked at this narrow window, mostly covering her time under Fischer and none of her time under Curran.) Then Perez walked through other “red flags” in her record, such as once opening the wrong drain valve on a tank, causing a fairly benign chemical to spill out.
Newton did not dispute the spill — she had reported it. But she saw a double standard in how her supervisor had asked her to cover up the report of her male coworkers’ more dangerous acid spill. After pushing back on the allegations against her, she launched into Fischer’s sexist remarks. But the HR representative, Christine Layne, cut her off.
“I want you to think about what you are doing,” Layne said, according to Newton’s later testimony. “You are making some very serious accusations.” Newton did not elaborate further. Perez agreed to investigate and asked Newton to share the names of anyone who may have witnessed Fischer’s comments.
After the meeting, Newton was again given a new supervisor, Richard Metcalf. Her work life improved until about three weeks after the meeting, when she arrived one Monday morning to find on her desk a sticker of a grumpy cartoon cat with the phrase, “If your pussy hurts just stay home.”
Discovery in Newton’s lawsuit. / Via documentcloud.org
The sticker that was left on Newton’s desk.
Horrified, she asked Perez to investigate. Perez emailed unit leaders about the discovery of “inappropriate material,” emphasizing it violated company policy. He never looked into who had put the sticker there, however, so no one was questioned or disciplined.
In September 2016, Perez asked Curran for feedback on whether to keep Newton past the new-hire probation period, and Curran recommended against it. Perez then interviewed Curran and Fischer about Newton’s harassment allegations, and they denied any wrongdoing.
Newton’s new supervisor, Metcalf, meanwhile, checked “yes” in response to the question on her review paperwork asking if she should stay employed. When Perez found out, he wrote to Metcalf: “I am not asking you to change anything but me and you need to be aligned on her performance and behaviors since she has been employed.” Afterward, Metcalf altered his recommendation, checking both the “yes” and “no” boxes.
On Sept. 28, Perez walked Newton into a room in the refinery’s main office, where a handbook about unemployment sat on the table. Layne of HR told Newton she was fired. When Newton asked why, Layne said: “This is not the time to discuss. We don’t need to tell you why.” Perez escorted Newton off the premises.
Recounting these incidents on the witness stand, Newton broke down in tears multiple times. Listening to former coworkers and supervisors call her incompetent and say they didn’t take her complaint seriously “was almost like reliving it all over again,” she told BuzzFeed News.
Shell’s team called on a slew of employees to refute her story. Fischer testified that he never made sexist remarks to Newton and said his criticisms of her final paperwork was a misunderstanding. Curran testified there was no ill intent in his documenting her mistakes and that he felt compelled to defend himself to Perez in their internal messages. Perez said Newton did not provide any concrete details about unfair treatment and that there was no need to investigate the sticker because he had taken steps “to put a stop to it.”
Layne, the HR rep, said she’d received no written guidance on how to conduct a harassment investigation. She also said Newton provided few details of her harassment, and she denied warning Newton not to share more. Several other Shell employees testified that Newton was not singled out for being a woman, plain and simple.
No one from Shell confirmed Newton’s version of events until the fourth day of testimony, when her union representative, Ray Jones, took the stand. In a booming voice, he said he was hired at Shell’s Martinez Refinery in 1995 as an operator.
“She started sharing some experiences that she had had beginning at her initial training,” he said, referring to the Aug. 2 meeting where Newton described Fischer’s cursing and mistreatment. “And quite honestly, my jaw dropped. I could not believe that she had gone through a lot of these things that she was describing.”
Jones went on to confirm how Layne had warned Newton not to air her allegations. That’s when, Jones said, he called for a break to talk privately with Newton. “I told her that what she was describing is serious harassment and I felt like she should use Shell’s harassment process to make a formal complaint,” he said.
All the jurors were intently watching Jones. Layne, sitting in the courtroom near Shell’s lawyers, put her face in her hands.
Courtesy of Ciara Newton
Shell Martinez Refinery’s 2016 new-hire class of operators. Newton was one of only four women in the class of 22.
On the afternoon of Dec. 19, eight days into the trial and two days into jury deliberations, the jurors filed back into the courtroom.
“I understand you have a unanimous verdict?” Judge Rogers asked the foreperson.
“We do, your honor,” he said.
Newton had made five claims: harassment based on gender; gender discrimination; retaliation; failure to prevent discrimination, harassment, or retaliation; and whistleblower retaliation. The jury found that she had established two of them: that she was harassed and that Shell had failed to prevent it.
“Counsel, do you want the jury polled?” Rogers asked. Both sides said yes, and all eight jurors individually confirmed the verdict.
By the time they were done, Newton was smiling. After fighting for two years, she told BuzzFeed News, she felt the record had finally been set straight. “I think that was the most important thing for me, and that was the biggest accomplishment,” she said.
Next the jury had to decide how much to award Newton in damages. Shell’s lawyer, Lafayette, suggested $25,000, if that; one of Newton’s lawyers, Emily Nugent, suggested $250,000, or possibly even more. Then the jury shuffled back to their isolated room for more discussion.
In the late afternoon, the jury sent a question: “What can we expect will happen if we cannot agree on an amount now or five days from now?” The judge called the lawyers back into court to discuss how to proceed.
“There’s no reward or number that’s going to take away the pain and disrespect that I was given by Shell.”
Neither lead lawyer had encountered this scenario before, with a mistrial looming after the plaintiff had proved her claims, and the jury was exhausted. So everyone was sent home for the night. Newton’s earlier excitement was gone, replaced with dread.
“I wanted to tell them,” Newton said, referring to the jury, “there’s no reward or number that’s going to take away the pain and disrespect that I was given by Shell when I worked there or during the trial or after I worked there.”
The jury resumed deliberations the next day at 8:30 a.m. The judge asked each side to write on a piece of paper how they would like to proceed. Newton’s lawyers proposed telling the jury that if they didn’t come up with a specific dollar amount, it would result in a mistrial, and Lafayette suggested dismissing the jury.
But just as the judge was weighing her decision, the court security guard interrupted: “They say they have a verdict.”
This time as the jury filed in, Newton kept her gaze on the floor.
The final verdict was read aloud: Newton was awarded damages for past and future mental suffering and emotional distress in the amount of $475,000. The jury also found at least one Shell representative or employee had engaged in conduct with malice, oppression, or fraud. (No specific individual was named.) After each juror confirmed the verdict out loud, Newton finally looked up, crying.
Lawyers for both sides jumped on their phones. Newton could barely talk, overwhelmed with emotion. She had become the first person to win a harassment claim against any major US refinery company in federal court in at least five years.
In response to repeated requests for an interview and specific questions sent in writing about recent cases, including Newton’s, as well as how the company handles sexual harassment, a Shell spokesperson emailed: “We are committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive workplace which reflects our core principles of honesty, integrity and respect. We take any allegations seriously, following rigorous processes to review them, and we disagree with the claims that have been made in these cases. It is not appropriate for us to comment in detail on individual personnel matters.”
Preston Gannaway for BuzzFeed News
Newton outside the Shell refinery in Martinez, California.
The trial is over, but the fight is not.
Earlier this year, Newton’s lawyers asked the court to mandate that Shell Martinez Refinery employees get training on an annual basis that “should cover the subject of gender harassment, including verbal or visual depictions of the belief that women are not wanted in the workplace, and how to submit a complaint,” and that the refinery overhaul its policies for investigating harassment complaints. Rogers denied these requests.
Shell’s lawyers, meanwhile, argued for the judge to overturn the jury verdict, or at least to lower the damages to $25,000. The judge has not yet announced her decision. If Rogers rules in favor of upholding the verdict and the award, Shell could appeal to the US Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit. “They are not going down without a fight,” Nugent said. (Shell declined to comment on the specifics of the case.)
Despite the industry’s public efforts to recruit women, and the energy of the #MeToo movement, critics say the culture at oil and gas refineries is nearly as toxic now as it was 30 years ago. “I’ve seen change, but it is glacially slow and it shouldn’t be,” said Kathryn Dickson, who represented the women in Big Oil’s first big harassment scandal in the early 1990s, when Chevron paid out $2.2 million in combined settlements to four women suing for harassment and $8.5 million in settlements to hundreds of women suing for pay discrimination. She blamed the past problems on Chevron being “a man’s club for so long” and later said progress in the industry has been so slow “because men are still largely in control.”
“Their actions while I was an employee, in court and now, pretty much sum up the atmosphere of disrespect and neglect Shell has to offer women who have been harassed and try to report it,” Newton said in an email.
Newton’s baby girl was born at the end of January. After her maternity leave ended, she went back to work in customer service at Alaska Airlines, making about $14.65 an hour — less than half of what she was making at Shell. Coming from a family where multiple cousins and a brother-in-law still frequent refineries for work, Newton is constantly reminded of the opportunity that was taken from her. And she can’t help but miss it.
“The main thing I miss is how much there is to learn,” Newton said, later adding, “My current job isn’t really challenging in the same way.”
She even said she thinks about one day, when her daughter is older, maybe trying again, just not at Shell. “If they just hired more women, and more women were being successful there, there wouldn’t be such — it wouldn’t be so hard to think about walking back into that environment,” she said. ●
This article was reported in partnership with Type Investigations, where Zahra Hirji is an Ida B. Wells fellow.
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henryasaunders · 6 years
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Tower of power: A look at the big names buying at this Chicago condo
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9 West Walton Street, Jason Heyward, Ken Griffin, Omer Asik, Steve Stratton, Todd Siwak, and Matthew Lawton (Credit: JDL, ESPN, JLL, ULI)
A 7-foot-tall Chicago Bull, a candy company magnate and the richest man in Illinois walk into the lobby of a luxury Chicago condo tower.
If you’re waiting for a punchline, don’t. There’s no joke here — just the possibility of what could happen once Omer Asik, Jason Heyward and Ken Griffin all have moved in to their units in the still-under-construction high-rise from JDL Development at 9 West Walton Street in the Gold Coast. The 38-story building was scheduled to open later this year.
The roster of soon-to-be residents at No. 9 Walton already includes hedge-fund managers, financial advisers, real estate execs, doctors, lawyers and other wealthy buyers who gave the building the record for most sales of $3 million or more, according to Crain’s.
And while it’s true there are many Gold Coast buildings boasting well-heeled leaders of Chicago industry living in multimillion-dollar homes, No. 9 Walton has dominated the list of most expensive residential sales in recent months.
Penthouses chicago
In addition to the usual luxury amenities, the building also features a house car and driver, private wine storage available, a covered dog run and two guest suites available to all homeowners. And Gemini restaurant owner Ryan O’Donnell bringing over Coda Di Volpe chef Christopher Thompson for a new two-floor restaurant inside the building, Eater reported.
A JDL executive declined to comment for this article, citing the privacy of the firm’s buyers. While a number of the units were purchased through trusts or LLC, The Real Deal was able to determine the identities of a number of the buyers:
Ken Griffin
The hedge fund billionaire behind Citadel made a splash late last year when he bought four unfinished floors at the top of the building for $59 million, shattering the record for most expensive home sale ever in Chicago. And even with the millions he’d have to spend to build out the home, it wouldn’t come close to the price tag of Griffin’s sprawling South Florida compound.
Todd Siwak
The Ferrara Candy Company CEO paid $4.6 million for a three-bedroom unit on the 17th floor. Siwak has led the Oakbrook Terrace-based firm since 2013 and plans to use the condo as a second residence, according to the ChicagoTribune. He also has a home in the St. Louis area.
Jason Heyward
The Cubs outfielder bought a 19th-floor unit for $6.9 million through an LLC. But the 29-year-old shouldn’t have many problems making his payments: He’s in the middle of an eight-year, $184 million contract with the Cubs.
Matthew Lawton
The executive managing director of commercial real estate firm HFF paid $4.5 million for an 8th-floor condo.
Steven and Sarah Stratton
JLL’s Steven Stratton is the firm’s Chicago tenant representation group co-lead and oversees its Midwest practice. He and his wife, Sarah, paid $3.8 million for the 10th-floor unit.
Omer Asik
The 7-footer from Turkey who is in his second stint with the Bulls paid $3.1 million for a seventh-floor condo with Wilma Wyngaart.
Paul Greenwalt
The partner at law firm Schiff Hardin paid $8.9 million for the 34th-floor condo, which puts it among the most expensive recent home sales.
Ashley and Jennifer Keller
Ashley Keller is a co-founder of Keller Lenkner, a plaintiff-side litigation firm. He also was a co-founder of litigation finance firm GKC, which sold in 2016 for $160 million. The Kellers paid $6.8 million for their 20th-floor condo.
Stephen Madry and Valerie Vlahos
Madry, a plastic surgeon, and Vlahos, a director at PriceWaterhouseCooper, paid $5.5 million for their 16th-floor condo.
Dominick and Cynthia Mondi
The president of Mesirow Financial and his wife paid $2.5 million for their fourth-floor unit.
Imad Bazzi and Salma Shawwaf
Bazzi is CEO of Oakbrook Terrace-based ACH Food Companies, a manufacturer of cooking and baking ingredients. They paid $3.2 million for their ninth-floor condo.
Joseph Rotter
The former Citadel hedge fund manager is managing director for Neuberger Berman Investment Advisers and head of the Principal Strategies Group. He paid $3.6 million for his fourth-floor condo.
David and Laura Eikenmeyer
The couple behind the Urban Child Academy preschools paid $5.3 million for their 19th-floor unit
Kevin and Shoshana Vernick
Shoshana Vernick is managing director at investment bank Sterling Partners, while Kevin Vernick is president of commercial real estate firm Vernick & Associates. They paid $3.7 million for their 12th-floor condo.
Cary and Teri Cicurel
Cary Cicurel is managing director at Loop Capital Markets. The couple’s 17th-floor unit cost $4.5 million.
Steve and Ariel Derringer
Steven Derringer is partner at law firm Bartlit Beck Herman Palenchar. The couple paid $4.5 million for their 14th-floor condo.
Helaine G. Cohen
The broker for Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Koenig Rubloff Realty Group paid $2.3 million for her seventh-floor condo. Cohen’s online bio says she is creator of ChicagoCondoFinder.com.
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floorinsite · 6 years
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Floored Britsh Homeowners turn to Independent Retailers - Lawton Yarns
Research recently conducted by Lawton Yarns to a 1,000 homeowners showed they would prefer to turn to independent flooring retailers over e-zines, glossy home interest titles or social media channels for trusted advice and interiors inspiration.
Over half (52%) of 1,000 homeowners surveyed by OnePoll on behalf of the Dewsbury-based wool spinner, Lawton Yarns, said they were most likely to seek out smaller, specialist stores to help inform their purchasing decisions.
What’s more, 43% consider these independent outlets a primary source for home furnishing ideas.
National showrooms were the second port of call with 28% visiting the better-known brands while in buying mode.
Just over a quarter (26%) would revert to carpet manufacturers’ websites.
“It’s clear consumers largely depend on ‘bricks’ over ‘clicks’ when they’re in flooring purchasing mode,” says Tim Kay of Lawton Yarns. “While that came as somewhat of a surprise, what was most telling to us, was the fact that there was minimal variation between how younger age groups answered compared to older generations.
“We fully expected to see some variation – particularly on those questions about trends – be it what’s currently perceived desirable or sources of inspiration. But the statistics indicate widespread consensus when it comes to flooring preferences and where homeowners find support for a purchase that typically takes place only once every eight to 10 years.”
Although the results reveal some degree of confusion about the pros and cons of different flooring types, in general, most people have opted for carpet (67%) over hard flooring in their homes.
When it comes to choosing which carpet, however, the uncertainty creeps in when deciding between a wool or wool-rich blend versus a synthetic makeup.
Nearly a third (32%) of respondents reported that they did not know which carpet composition they prefer and there was a lack of knowledge on the full breadth of wool’s key performance benefits.
For example, 60% of homeowners were unable to decipher which floor covering is the most fire retardant and 40% were unsure which material would be most resistant to the ‘flattening’ effect seen in high traffic areas over time. Both factors being essential selling points for the wool camp.
“The impetus behind the research was to understand what drives consumers in determining what they put down in their homes,” adds Kay. “Cost? Environmental concerns? Safety? Ease of maintenance? We were second guessing. Now, armed with these insights, we strongly believe that we can support the manufacturers and all-important retailers in getting the ‘buy wool’ message across. The time is right to hone in on the mood of the moment and regain rightful market share for nature’s wonder material.”
Despite the shown lack of understanding around the advantages of wool, 28% stated they would choose a pure wool carpet compared to the 7% favouring entirely synthetic products.
Furthermore, though wool is often associated with artisan crafts and celebrated for its traditional heritage, man-made carpets were considered far more unfashionable.
“With the innovations in technical textiles this came as another big surprise,” says Kay. “It goes to show that sentiment plays a part and reiterates the exciting window of opportunity we have here, with all things raw, organic and inherently sustainable being very much in people’s consciousness. For the industry, it’s understanding how we can tap into these emotional triggers and convert a wider societal movement into growing sales for the wool carpet sector.”
Wool carpet has long had a reputation for being a comfortable, durable and quality flooring choice.
But the natural benefits go far beyond these attributes. As a fire-retardant, sustainable and hypo-allergenic fibre, wool and wool-rich carpets offer a series of stand-out features that few consumers are currently considering.
Perhaps one of the lesser known advantages being that wool filters the air and regulates humidity, creating more comfortable indoor environments.
Another case-in-point is the misconceptions regarding maintenance concerns.
Wool is resistant to flattening and stains and is proven to look great for longer – providing excellent value for money and offering an ideal solution for busy areas where wool has tended to be less frequently featured because of these misgivings.
“Respondents cited the top three attributes as comfort, durability and quality, while the sustainability, ease of cleaning and hypoallergenic qualities of wool carpet ranked of lower importance [at 22%, 19% and 4% respectively],” observes Kay.
“We’re on a mission to take the lesser known and more hard-hitting benefits of wool to market – building on the great work already being done by contingents like The Wool Carpet Focus Group – of which Lawton Yarns is proud to be a member – the longstanding Campaign for Wool initiative and the British Wool Marketing Board’s increasing efforts in supporting the flooring sector. Together, the research shows, we can make a difference.”
To find out more about Lawton Yarns and the latest innovations in woollen yarn for carpet manufacture, please visit www.lawton-yarns.com.
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melvinfellerstuff · 5 years
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Melvin Feller Discusses Ways for Landlords to Become Better Organized.
Melvin Feller Discusses Ways for Landlords to Become Better Organized.
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 Melvin Feller Business Ministries Group in Burkburnett and Dallas Texas and Lawton Oklahoma. Our mission is to call and equip a generation of Christian entrepreneurs to do business as ministry. We provide workshops and resources that help companies discover how to do business God’s way. When the heart of a business is service rather than self it can be transformed into a fruitful business ministry earning a profit and being of service to the community and their customers. Melvin Feller is currently pursuing another graduate degree in business organizations.
   Owning rental property can be a great source of secondary income but it can also be an extreme headache if not approached correctly. Many people jump right into the investing game with little background or education on how the game actually works, and often find themselves up the creek without a paddle. There are tips and tricks that you can implement to help minimize your headaches and maximize your return on investment. Although it is impossible to plan for all circumstances, you can absolutely minimize your risks by following a few of these tips to help avoid the rental nightmares.
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    Solid Application Process
   Having a strict application process can immediately weed out potential tenants that you would not want to rent to. You can learn a lot about a potential tenant from the information they provide. You can access information about their references, employment history, whether or not they are smokers, have they ever been convicted of a crime, etc. Charge an application fee to cover the costs of running a credit and criminal background check. If an applicant can't afford to pay the $20 application fee, how can you expect them to pay the $900 a month rent payment? Running a credit report and criminal background check is necessary. Accessing this type of information allows you to get a good idea of the individual’s debt vs. income ratio, how timely they have been on past payments, etc.
     Security Deposit
   Collecting a security deposit is an absolute must. Do not rent to someone without collecting a deposit. Period. You need to be aware of and follow any state laws and regulations regarding the amount you can legally collect for a deposit. Most commonly, a deposit can be equal to one month's rent. No matter what the law might be, you must collect a deposit of some sort.  Deposits will save you future headaches and help you avoid paying out of pocket for damage your tenants are responsible for paying.
      Leases
  Have everything in writing, always have some sort of documentation, and keep copies on file. I do not care if you are renting to your cousin, brother, sister, or mother; have a lease of some sort! It is often a good idea to have your lawyer or attorney review or even write your lease so that you have some assurance of its strength and legality.
   Responsiveness
  Responding to your tenants' complaints and issues appropriately is very important. If you are timely in completing repairs your tenants will be appreciative and be more apt to pay rent on time. Promptly dealing with repairs is the best way to build a solid relationship with your tenants.
  Relationships
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  It is important to establish a professional relationship with all of your tenants. Showing your tenants that you genuinely care about their living conditions makes for a much better tenancy - you may even be able to turn bad tenants in to good tenants! That being said, it is always important to make the distinction between being friendly and being friends; you must create a policy and stick to it.
   Continuing Education
  Education is the key to success, and knowing the ins and outs of how rental property and investments work will make you a better off landlord. You should constantly be updating your knowledge on local laws and regulations, including tenant and landlord rights, fire and safety code, and many others.
   Property Management
  If you are using a property management company, be sure to do your homework. Check references, interview the individuals and get a good feel for the people who will be working for you. Always monitor your monthly statements and make sure the work being done is professional and by someone licensed and bonded.
   Not a 9 to 5 Job
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 In case you did not already know, being a landlord is NOT a 9-to-5 job. You never know what issues are going to arise, but when they do, they always seem to happen at the most inconvenient times. If you are currently a landlord or thinking of becoming one, there are some key skills you must possess and perfect.
   Time Management
  A s I said, you never know what issues will come up, but when they do, you have to set aside time to figure out a plan of attack and fix the issue quickly. Far too often, I see landlords who do not have quality time management skills and their lack of skill affects the entire building. First, the lawn is not mowed and the grass becomes overgrown. Next, the paint begins to peel. Then garbage begins to pile up around the building. Before you know it, you have lost your "curb appeal." Because there is no "curb appeal”, you have a hard time finding quality renters and become desperate. Finally, you find someone who seems to have their act together and you think, "I'll just rent to these guys. I don't have time to perform a credit and background check or call their references." Because you "didn't have the time" to properly vet your new tenants, they now are not paying their rent and you have to file for eviction, which costs you a couple thousand dollars in lost rent and court/attorney fees. You are now left with a unit that has been abused in every way possible and you need to repair/repaint walls, deeply clean everything, etc., etc., etc. Everyone knows someone like this - someone that just has so much going on that they cannot seem to find the time to do the necessary things needed to maintain their rental property.
    Organization
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  A huge part of time management is organization. If you are organized then everything just goes more smoothly. As a landlord, a big part of being organized is developing a detailed filing system. When you are organized, you will not spend your time looking for lost things like that heating bill, or that maintenance request, or the telephone number to the contractor who is supposed to come and repair your kitchen floor, because you will know exactly where it all is.
  Things you absolutely need to file are:
Bills
Maintenance requests and tenant complaints
Rental applications, must be kept for at least 1 year because applicants have a year to appeal if they feel they were discriminated against
Vendor W-9s Rental receipts Prior tax returns Leases
Any notices you have ever given to a tenant
  Communication
  Another key to being a good landlord is developing your active listening skills. When your tenants feel that you actually care about the issue at hand, things seem to go a little smoother. Take time to listen to what the tenant has to say and after they are done, reiterate what they have said back to them to make sure you have the details down. This will tell the tenant you have been listening and will give them confidence that you will handle the issue at hand.
Answer your phone and/or return calls within a reasonable amount of time. When a tenant calls you with an issue, do not wait a week to call them back. What kind of message do you think that sends?
    Budgeting
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  A lot of issues landlords face are directly related to money in one way or another. The best way to avoid issues with money is to create a budget and monitor it! I review all of my budgets once a month. This will allow you to see where your money is going and develop a plan to increase your income and decrease your expenses. With a budget, you can also set money aside every month to make necessary repairs and develop a "slush fund" for those unpredictable events such as frozen pipes, appliance failure, and code violations.
   Finally, Treat Landlording as a Business Not a Hobby!!
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 Yes, owning rental property is a business. If it were not, you wouldn't be paying taxes! When things need to be done, it is always better to do them ASAP rather than dragging your heels. Landlords have the amazing job of providing people with a place to live that is comfortable and enjoyable. However, things do not always go as planned and hard decisions need to be made. I like to say that there is a very fine line between being "friends" with tenants and being "friendly" towards tenants.
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   Melvin Feller Business Consultants Ministries Group in Texas and Oklahoma. Melvin Feller founded Melvin Feller Business Consultants Group Ministries in the 1970s to help individuals and organizations achieve their specific Victory. Victory as defined by the individual or organization are achieving strategic objectives, exceeding goals, getting results or desired outcomes. He has extensive experience assisting businesses achieve top and bottom line results. He has broad practical experience creating WINNERS in many organizations and industries. He has hands-on experience in executive leadership, operations, logistics, sales, program management, organizational development, training and customer service. He has coached teams to achieve results in strategic planning, business development, organizational design, sales, and customer response and business process improvement. He has prepared and presented many workshops nationally and
Melvin Feller Business Organization Graduate                internationally.
Candidate, Business Owner and Business Coach
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prokred · 6 years
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love&#39;s labor lost in <b>building</b> win
Ted Lawton and 34-year-old innovator Billy Chu ying-lung were among the winners and finalists at the Construction Industry Council's Construction Innovation Awards. Lawton, 68, was the second prize winner in the productivity category for his "K frame" machine, which is geared toward bridge ... Read more http://ift.tt/2kucHTW Areas served: Winston-Salem, High Point, Yadkinville, Mocksville, Advance, Clemmons, Kernersville, Greensboro, Walnut Cove, Statesville, NC, North Carolina Services: House painting, roofing, deck building, landscaping, Carpentry, Flooring, tile, hardwood, remodeling, home improvement, interior, exterior
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topmediumreaderspro · 7 years
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Psychic Medium in Lawton PA 18828
The following article goes into detail about psychic medium in Lawton Pennsylvania 18828 A medium can either be natural born or develop later in life, though they will already possess medium skills which they just haven't recognised yet. It is the view of many life long spiritualists that the days of old were more productive in terms of the natural abilities and volumes of those having these abilities. The Victorian era saw mediumship as being highly fashionable with seances and parlour tricks providing entertainment for the curious, whilst being underpinned by the realisation of the power and greatness of mediumship itself when pure evidential readings left the sitter in no doubts as to its validity. Materialisations, levitation and apports were regular events and the great late Daniel Douglas Home was one Scottish medium who did these things. An astonished and varied gathering of well to do towns folk and journalists witnessed him float up into the air and they also saw a human arm materialise in front of them which was firm to the touch and seemingly unattached to anything. Daniel was quoted as being the most gifted medium, and sought to avoid contact with other spiritualists stating they could teach him nothing. He remains an enigma for many who merely thought mediumship was an illusion or trick. During the scandal, Home was apparently at his best when it came to producing incredible phenomena. In December 1868, his most famous feat took place at the home of Lord Adare. During the evening, Home reportedly went into a trance and floated out the window of the third floor, then floated back in another window - all before the eyes of a number of stunned witnesses. The event occurred in front of three irreproachable members of London's high society, Lord Adare, his cousin Captain Charles Wynne and the Master of Lindsay. There is no doubt the world lost an astonishing man when Daniel passed to the higher life.
In the early 1900s many natural born mediums were encouraged to develop and many young child mediums took to the stage to demonstrate their skills. These skills were developed by what is know as sitting in circle. Circle development covers a group of people sitting to develop their clairvoyant or psychic abilities. The aim is to help everyone learn to connect to spirit in their own way and usually in a variety of different ways. Workshops in general can cover traditional clairvoyance, psychic art, clairvoyance with music, ribbon and colour clairvoyance, psychic drawing, sand reading, flower reading, tarot reading and much more, all under the gentle guidance of a variety of well qualified mediums and psychics. Mediumship development needs 2 very important ingredients, one is a person with a good heart, compassion for fellow man and all things living and the aptitude to develop either potential or those already gifted & active, and the other are good spiritual medium teachers, it is a discipline that required intense study for the best possible results. Whatever phrases we use to describe clairvoyant and psychic abilities, first and foremost it is the spiritualist way of life and all that it encompasses that should always be at the fore. Some may feel that spiritualism is a religion, i feel it is more a way of life.
Sarah Saxon works in the psychic and metaphysical industry and offers services Worldwide to advance spiritualism & world awareness, articles are unbiased and fact based.
Post Source Here: Psychic Medium in Lawton PA 18828
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atfoklahoma · 7 months
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Revitalize Your Kitchen with Epoxy Flooring: A Residential Delight in Piedmont
In the heart of Piedmont, where homes reflect the warmth of community living, residents are turning to a trend that not only adds aesthetic appeal but also enhances durability – Epoxy Kitchen Floors. Whether you're a homeowner looking to upgrade your kitchen or a business owner seeking top-notch flooring solutions, the professionals at ATF Oklahoma have got you covered.
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Why Epoxy Kitchen Floors?
Epoxy flooring has become a popular choice for both residential and commercial spaces, owing to its remarkable durability, easy maintenance, and stunning visual appeal. In Piedmont, where families gather in the kitchen for meals and memorable moments, having a flooring solution that can withstand the hustle and bustle of daily life is crucial.
Residential Flooring Excellence in Piedmont and Beyond
When it comes to residential flooring in Piedmont, ATF Oklahoma stands out as a trusted partner. With a proven track record of delivering high-quality flooring solutions, our team of experts ensures that your kitchen floor not only looks beautiful but also stands the test of time.
Commercial Flooring Contractors in Muskogee: Expertise You Can Trust
Looking beyond Piedmont, ATF Oklahoma proudly serves Muskogee and surrounding areas as premier commercial flooring contractors. Our expertise extends to businesses that require robust flooring solutions, providing a perfect blend of functionality and aesthetics. We understand the unique needs of commercial spaces and tailor our services to meet those requirements efficiently.
Transform Your Space with Residential Flooring in Mustang, Newcastle, and Noble
In addition to Piedmont, ATF Oklahoma brings its stellar services to the vibrant communities of Mustang, Newcastle, and Noble. Whether you're a homeowner looking to refresh your living space or a business owner aiming to create an inviting atmosphere, our Residential Flooring Solutions cater to your specific needs.
Discover Quality and Reliability with ATF Oklahoma
As a leading player in the flooring industry, ATF Oklahoma takes pride in offering top-notch services to a wide array of locations, including Altus, Anadarko, Ardmore, Bartlesville, Bethany, Bixby, Blackwell, Blanchard, Broken Arrow, Catoosa, Chickasha, Choctaw, Claremore, Clinton, Collinsville, Coweta, Cushing, Del City, Duncan, Durant, Edmond, El Reno, Elk City, Enid, Glenpool, Grove, Guthrie, Guymon, Harrah, and Henryetta.
Your Flooring Journey Starts Here
Visit our website at ATF oklahoma to explore our range of flooring options and discover the perfect fit for your residential or commercial space. ATF Oklahoma is committed to transforming your space into a masterpiece, combining functionality with style.
In conclusion, whether you're in Piedmont or any of the surrounding areas, ATF Oklahoma is your go-to partner for all things flooring. Elevate your kitchen or commercial space with the unmatched durability and beauty of Epoxy Flooring – because your Space Deserves the Best.
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atfoklahoma · 7 months
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Unlock the True Value of Your Home in Fort Bend County with Our Expert Home Valuation Contractors - Houston, Texas
In the vibrant city of Miami, where aesthetics and functionality intertwine seamlessly, choosing the right flooring for your residence is a decision of utmost importance. From the heart of Altus to the vibrant cityscape of Anadarko, the quest for the perfect flooring solution becomes a journey in enhancing both style and durability.
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Residential Flooring in Miami: A Fusion of Style and Functionality
When it comes to residential flooring in Miami, the options are as diverse as the city itself. From classic hardwood to modern tiles, finding the perfect fit for your space is crucial. Our flooring experts at ATF Oklahoma understand the unique needs of Miami residents, offering a wide range of choices to suit every taste and lifestyle.
Epoxy Kitchen Floor Residential in Miami: A Trendsetting Choice
For those seeking a contemporary and durable solution, consider the elegance of epoxy kitchen floors. These sleek and seamless surfaces not only add a touch of modernity to your kitchen but also provide a robust and easy-to-maintain solution for the bustling heart of your home.
Commercial Flooring Contractors in Miami: Transforming Spaces with Professionalism
Our expertise extends beyond residential spaces. As trusted commercial flooring contractors in Miami, we bring a professional touch to businesses across Altus, Anadarko, Ardmore, and beyond. Elevate your commercial space with flooring solutions that blend sophistication with functionality, creating an environment that reflects your brand's identity.
Flooring Installation Contractors in Miami: Seamless Solutions, Every Time
Choosing the right flooring is just the beginning; proper installation is equally crucial. Our skilled flooring installation contractors ensure that your chosen flooring is expertly laid, guaranteeing longevity and a flawless finish that enhances the overall aesthetic of your space.
Beyond Miami: Residential Flooring in Surrounding Areas
Expanding our reach to Piedmont, Muskogee, Mustang, Newcastle, Noble, and beyond, we cater to the diverse flooring needs of homeowners in these vibrant communities. From classic residential flooring options to innovative choices like epoxy kitchen floors, we bring style and functionality to every corner of your home.
Flooring Contractors in Owasso: Your Trusted Partners in Home Transformation
Our commitment to excellence extends to Owasso, where our experienced flooring contractors stand ready to assist you in transforming your living space. Whether you envision the timeless appeal of hardwood or the durability of modern tile, we have the expertise to bring your vision to life.
In conclusion, when it comes to residential flooring in Miami and surrounding areas, ATF Oklahoma stands as your dedicated partner. From Altus to Owasso, our expert team is ready to guide you through the process, ensuring that your choice of flooring not only meets but exceeds your expectations. Elevate your living space with flooring solutions that blend style, durability, and a touch of Miami's unique charm.
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