How do you plan to celebrate the new year? Counting down the days, hours and minutes to the coming year has always been fun and intriguing for me. Here in the United States in 2012, the focus is on the fiscal cliff, an imaginary visual describing the state of our finances. According to our government, Americans will not be holding onto the edge of the cliff anymore in 2013, but heading out into the wild blue yonder of the bottomless pit, like Wylie Coyote. Frankly, self-employed people like me have already gone over that cliff and all I can report is that most of you looking over the edge should simply hope for the best. There are millions of us out here already, still tumbling aimlessly, so you won’t be alone.
But wait . . . there is hope! I came across a listing of New Year’s Eve traditions that sound interesting and may provide a different angle on how we are wishing the new year will bring a better life. Superstition-schmooperstition, so what? Why not try something different? First, don’t forget to download your copy of Single 101’s 101 New Year’s Resolutions, available on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Single-101-Years-Resolutions-ebook/dp/B006RY6IP4. Let’s take the leap together!
Good luck and best wishes for love, happiness, good health and prosperity in the coming year . . . Celeste
Global Trends and Traditions:
Eat 12 Grapes
In many cultures around the world it is good luck to eat 12 grapes for each time the clock strikes at midnight.
Hallow Out an Egg
Fill hallowed out egg shells with confetti. At the stroke of midnight, gently smash them releasing a shower of confetti.
Toss Coins Into the Air
Tossing coins into the air could be symbolic of throwing caution to the wind to see where your booty lands, but many believe it can inspire good fortune.
Sing!
Whether you consider yourself a vocalist or not, sing loud and clear!
Anoint Your Friends With Water
Water is the symbol of renewal and rebirth, so think of a fun way to sprinkle your guests. It could be pouring a small amount of water from a glass on someone's head or spraying each other with water bottles.
Throw Confetti
Make use of the basket from your paper shredder or rip apart your discarded Christmas wrapping paper, toss and be merry.
Release Your Wishes into the Sky
Write your wishes for the new year on a Chinese lantern and release it into the air at the stroke of midnight.
Chase Your Blues Away
Jot down something you weren't happy about the previous year on a piece of paper, toss it into the fire or tear it up. Maybe if we all wrote down our discontent for our congressional representatives, we could change Washington with the power of pen and fire.
Jump Into the Air
Embrace the new year with energy and joy, just don’t jump farther than you’re afraid to fall. You don’t want to spend the new year in the hospital.
Share a Secret
Whisper a secret or wish that you have to a friend or a total stranger at the stroke of midnight.
Friday, December 28, 2012
Sunday, December 16, 2012
To Play or Not to Play
In recent weeks, there has been a deluge of articles, advice columns, radio and television interviews and panel discussions on infidelity, due to the General Petraeus scandal in the United States. Having invested in 38 years of marriage, Petraeus threw caution to the wind, having an affair with a woman he had employed to write his biography.
You may be asking still how Petraeus, the director of the CIA, kept his affair concealed for so long and if he actually believed he could be successful in this kind of deception. Inevitably, America and the rest of the world became privy to a plethora of graphic details regarding the relationship with his mistress that we didn’t really need to know.
On HealthGuidance.org, Elizabeth Danish began her November article, “Dating A Married Man” with stark reality, that a wise woman never dates a married man. She states that if you are searching for a life-long commitment, you are sabotaging your own success by snaring another woman’s husband.
Are You Simply His Toy?
Once a boy is tired of playing with a toy, he abandons or throws it away. If you’ve run a comparison, you’ve most probably found that the cons out-weigh the pros when it comes to having an intimate relationship with a married man. Danish also brings home the point that a cheating man is the one in control of the relationship. He sees an affair as something that is romantically and sexually thrilling. It makes his life once again exhilarating and full of passion. Some men who cheat often have reinvigorated intimacy with their wives, according to Danish, in an attempt to cover their tracks, thus double dipping, if you will, between wives and mistresses.
Advantage- the Cheating Man
As long as he remains in his marriage, his priorities will be his family, as it should be. However, his mistress and best kept secret will be alone on Thanksgiving, Christmas and if it’s that important to her, Valentine’s Day. He will attempt to spend time with her before or after the holidays, to make up for not sharing in the celebrations.
Finally, Elizabeth Danish asks, “What was your goal when you started the relationship with him?” It is likely that you wanted to have a lasting relationship with someone who is mature and sensitive. If you reconsider the goal, is it really achievable?
Cheaters who Cheat and the Fools who Fall for Them
Stephany Alexandre, author of the book “The Cheat Sheet”, leads you over to the dark side and into the secret lives of philanderers by giving first-hand accounts of cheating stories. Alexandre says the cheating experts know how to justify their acts, handle guilt, cope with double lives, and juggle the search for commitment with outside gratification. What are some of the signs that say he’s cheating on you? Ariana Huffington, Editor of The Huffington Post states, ‘texting is the new lipstick on the collar’.
Single 101’s take . . .
Men who pursue extra-marital affairs develop a confidence that they will never get caught, especially when they meet all of their responsibilities as a husband, a father and bread winner. The majority of cheating spouses do get away with cheating on their mates. In one study, 70% of married women and 54% of married men had no idea their spouse was involved in an affair.
No matter how deep you have fallen for a married man, it is best to pull back and wait to see if he is serious about ending his marriage. If it ends in divorce, give yourself plenty of time to see if his love for you, (if that exists) is strong enough for him to emotionally invest in a real relationship with you. The emotional cost of waiting, if he’s worth it, cancels out the shock and hurt you would experience if he cuts off the affair, due to the demands of keeping his marriage together and his infidelity unknown. Time will reveal true love. In some cases, does absence makes the heart grow fonder?
After publishing Single 101: 101 Reasons to Celebrate Being Single, I met a woman who had made a personal commitment to living out the rest of her life as a single person. She had finally freed herself of relationships that left her feeling empty and filled with disappointment. After several years, she adapted well to flying solo. If she was introduced to a man, especially someone who was also single, she looked beyond any element that would create attraction or interest. Her goal was to enjoy a life filled with true friendships where she never had to deal with a jealous spouse or boyfriend anymore.
That Unexplainable Spark
Unsuspecting to fall, she was swept off her feet by a married man who initially dropped hints of having an unsatisfactory marriage for many years and stating that it was over. As the single girl and the man grew closer, they began sharing their attraction toward each other.
In her late fifties, she does not consider herself to be desirable and have anything to physically offer a man. Self-esteem is not an issue for her within the protective walls of living independently. She has dealt with a crippling disability for many years and disturbed by the opinion of many men and women that a man will sleep with ‘anything’. However, she stepped over the threshold that she was determined never to cross and set herself up for the possibility of being disenchanted, alone and ashamed of being an ‘anything’.
She imagines what the future would be like if she were to become the next woman he cheats on, yet she cares for him so much, she cannot bring herself to label him as a cheater. As much as we try to fight or ignore it, there is unrelenting power in attraction for the right or wrong reasons. When your feelings are so strong for someone, you are blind to the realities of deception. The need to be as close as possible to someone can overpower the risk of deeply hurting others who may become affected.
Statistics show that an extremely low percentage of these affairs develop into actual committed relationships. So, do we protect ourselves and try to prevent emotional pain or do we take a chance, follow our instinct that craves intimacy, hoping that our actions may lead to real love and happiness?
To quote the lyrics from Train’s “Drive By”- “on the up-side to a downward spiral, my love for you went viral and I loved you every mile you drove away.”
"To Play or Not to Play" will appear in January of 2013 on Cupid's Pulse.
Visit: http://CupidsPulse.com
You may be asking still how Petraeus, the director of the CIA, kept his affair concealed for so long and if he actually believed he could be successful in this kind of deception. Inevitably, America and the rest of the world became privy to a plethora of graphic details regarding the relationship with his mistress that we didn’t really need to know.
On HealthGuidance.org, Elizabeth Danish began her November article, “Dating A Married Man” with stark reality, that a wise woman never dates a married man. She states that if you are searching for a life-long commitment, you are sabotaging your own success by snaring another woman’s husband.
Are You Simply His Toy?
Once a boy is tired of playing with a toy, he abandons or throws it away. If you’ve run a comparison, you’ve most probably found that the cons out-weigh the pros when it comes to having an intimate relationship with a married man. Danish also brings home the point that a cheating man is the one in control of the relationship. He sees an affair as something that is romantically and sexually thrilling. It makes his life once again exhilarating and full of passion. Some men who cheat often have reinvigorated intimacy with their wives, according to Danish, in an attempt to cover their tracks, thus double dipping, if you will, between wives and mistresses.
Advantage- the Cheating Man
As long as he remains in his marriage, his priorities will be his family, as it should be. However, his mistress and best kept secret will be alone on Thanksgiving, Christmas and if it’s that important to her, Valentine’s Day. He will attempt to spend time with her before or after the holidays, to make up for not sharing in the celebrations.
Finally, Elizabeth Danish asks, “What was your goal when you started the relationship with him?” It is likely that you wanted to have a lasting relationship with someone who is mature and sensitive. If you reconsider the goal, is it really achievable?
Cheaters who Cheat and the Fools who Fall for Them
Stephany Alexandre, author of the book “The Cheat Sheet”, leads you over to the dark side and into the secret lives of philanderers by giving first-hand accounts of cheating stories. Alexandre says the cheating experts know how to justify their acts, handle guilt, cope with double lives, and juggle the search for commitment with outside gratification. What are some of the signs that say he’s cheating on you? Ariana Huffington, Editor of The Huffington Post states, ‘texting is the new lipstick on the collar’.
Single 101’s take . . .
Men who pursue extra-marital affairs develop a confidence that they will never get caught, especially when they meet all of their responsibilities as a husband, a father and bread winner. The majority of cheating spouses do get away with cheating on their mates. In one study, 70% of married women and 54% of married men had no idea their spouse was involved in an affair.
No matter how deep you have fallen for a married man, it is best to pull back and wait to see if he is serious about ending his marriage. If it ends in divorce, give yourself plenty of time to see if his love for you, (if that exists) is strong enough for him to emotionally invest in a real relationship with you. The emotional cost of waiting, if he’s worth it, cancels out the shock and hurt you would experience if he cuts off the affair, due to the demands of keeping his marriage together and his infidelity unknown. Time will reveal true love. In some cases, does absence makes the heart grow fonder?
After publishing Single 101: 101 Reasons to Celebrate Being Single, I met a woman who had made a personal commitment to living out the rest of her life as a single person. She had finally freed herself of relationships that left her feeling empty and filled with disappointment. After several years, she adapted well to flying solo. If she was introduced to a man, especially someone who was also single, she looked beyond any element that would create attraction or interest. Her goal was to enjoy a life filled with true friendships where she never had to deal with a jealous spouse or boyfriend anymore.
That Unexplainable Spark
Unsuspecting to fall, she was swept off her feet by a married man who initially dropped hints of having an unsatisfactory marriage for many years and stating that it was over. As the single girl and the man grew closer, they began sharing their attraction toward each other.
In her late fifties, she does not consider herself to be desirable and have anything to physically offer a man. Self-esteem is not an issue for her within the protective walls of living independently. She has dealt with a crippling disability for many years and disturbed by the opinion of many men and women that a man will sleep with ‘anything’. However, she stepped over the threshold that she was determined never to cross and set herself up for the possibility of being disenchanted, alone and ashamed of being an ‘anything’.
She imagines what the future would be like if she were to become the next woman he cheats on, yet she cares for him so much, she cannot bring herself to label him as a cheater. As much as we try to fight or ignore it, there is unrelenting power in attraction for the right or wrong reasons. When your feelings are so strong for someone, you are blind to the realities of deception. The need to be as close as possible to someone can overpower the risk of deeply hurting others who may become affected.
Statistics show that an extremely low percentage of these affairs develop into actual committed relationships. So, do we protect ourselves and try to prevent emotional pain or do we take a chance, follow our instinct that craves intimacy, hoping that our actions may lead to real love and happiness?
To quote the lyrics from Train’s “Drive By”- “on the up-side to a downward spiral, my love for you went viral and I loved you every mile you drove away.”
"To Play or Not to Play" will appear in January of 2013 on Cupid's Pulse.
Visit: http://CupidsPulse.com
Saturday, November 24, 2012
What the Single 101 Nation is All About
Emma Johnson, Editor of The Motley Fool, posted the following article on
DailyFinance.com, dated November 23, 2012.
"No Man, More Money: Five Women Who Thrived After Divorce"
This 45 year-old mother of two teenagers, Huma Gruaz lives in Chicago where she runs the public relations agency Alpaytac, which bills $2.5 million annually and employs 22 people -- including many single mothers. She divorced in 2000.
Life before divorce: After a successful advertising career in Europe, this native of Turkey married and moved to an affluent Chicago suburb where she raised her children in a large home with a pool. "When my marriage fell apart, it was the scariest thing in the world because I had no work experience in the U.S.," Gruaz says. "I was a suburban mom driving my kids around to playgroups and cooking meals and helping with homework."
Life after divorce: With just enough child support to pay her rent, Gruaz volunteered to work for free at a PR agency. In 2004, she launched her own firm, which has won multiple awards and now has offices in three cities. Gruaz earned an MBA from Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management in 2008. Today, her personal income is three to four times that of what her now ex-husband earned when they were married.
Philosophy: "I lived a pristine American story, and it was hard to walk away. When I left I barely had enough money to buy food. But through my experiences I became a better, more mature person. And the ride has been enriching and I've had some incredible relationships along the way."
Huma Hruaz is a shining example of what the Single 101 Nation is all about.
http://www.dailyfinance.com/2012/11/23/no-man-more-money-five-women-who-thrived-after-divorce/#photo-1
Happy Thanksgiving!
Celeste
"No Man, More Money: Five Women Who Thrived After Divorce"
This 45 year-old mother of two teenagers, Huma Gruaz lives in Chicago where she runs the public relations agency Alpaytac, which bills $2.5 million annually and employs 22 people -- including many single mothers. She divorced in 2000.
Life before divorce: After a successful advertising career in Europe, this native of Turkey married and moved to an affluent Chicago suburb where she raised her children in a large home with a pool. "When my marriage fell apart, it was the scariest thing in the world because I had no work experience in the U.S.," Gruaz says. "I was a suburban mom driving my kids around to playgroups and cooking meals and helping with homework."
Life after divorce: With just enough child support to pay her rent, Gruaz volunteered to work for free at a PR agency. In 2004, she launched her own firm, which has won multiple awards and now has offices in three cities. Gruaz earned an MBA from Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management in 2008. Today, her personal income is three to four times that of what her now ex-husband earned when they were married.
Philosophy: "I lived a pristine American story, and it was hard to walk away. When I left I barely had enough money to buy food. But through my experiences I became a better, more mature person. And the ride has been enriching and I've had some incredible relationships along the way."
Huma Hruaz is a shining example of what the Single 101 Nation is all about.
Single 101 Reason #24- 'never be afraid to go it alone'
http://www.dailyfinance.com/2012/11/23/no-man-more-money-five-women-who-thrived-after-divorce/#photo-1
Happy Thanksgiving!
Celeste
Friday, October 5, 2012
Has It Really Been Fifty Years?
Fifty years ago, we were rushing home every day after school to watch
American Bandstand, hosted by Dick Clark. Chubby Checker inspired the world
with a new dance and number one tune, "The Twist". John F. Kennedy was President
of the United States, John Glenn became the first American to orbit the
earth and we were introduced to Mr. Bond. One-half of a century ago, I was in second grade with no stress or cares,
except to wonder if I'd have a part in the school Christmas play and if my
grades would meet my parents' expectations.
Every Sunday night, families across the U.S. gathered around their black
and white televisions at 8:00 pm to watch the Ed Sullivan Show. Little did we
know who Sullivan would introduce to audiences in the states one year later. In
England, John, Paul, George and Ringo were recording track after track of a new
sound that would revolutionize the music industry. The world would nickname
them "The Fab Four" before they even set foot on American soil.
October 5, 2012 marks the 50th anniversary of the release of "Love Me Do,"
The Beatles' first single. Written by Lennon and McCartney, it begins with that
signature harmonica lick. Maybe you'll dust off that old "Introducing the
Beatles" album, download the single to your iPhone or simply hear it playing in
your head.
Peace and love to all Beatles fans here, there and everywhere!
Celeste
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Single Parenting and Going Green
Most of us are becoming more conscious of
what we feed our children, a new baby, as well as ourselves. The Green Movement
and how we treat our planet is a step in the right direction, however, it will
raise your food expenses a few notches. With well thought-out meal planning
and more awareness of where to buy, especially local, it's a greener world for
your wallet. Here are a few tips for getting started with
an organic lifestyle:
One Step at a Time
Going green doesn't mean going crazy for every organic item you find at the market. On produce, this is the perfect time to enjoy the harvest from your local growers. Still, wash everything thoroughly when you get home. If you're not making your own baby food for your newborn, jarred foods like bananas, mangoes and oranges are good. In many ways, you can start out with a mix of organic and conventional.
Organic is wise when it comes to dairy, meat
and poultry. Animals raised on factory-style farms are loaded with antibiotics
and hormones. This keeps them healthy, but is not necessarily safe when passed
on to the consumer.
Do Your Homework
Shop around for the best deals that conform
with your budget. Many high-end markets are making high-end profits with
organic foods. Low-end stores offer most of the same green brands for less, but
be selective and know what you're buying. Some of the major department store
chains across the United States are offering organic products, but Trader Joe's
is becoming the place that most green consumers recommend. Check out http://TraderJoes.com for a location near you.
Again, pay close attention to what you are purchasing before you place it into
your shopping cart. Look for the USDA organic seal, which means that what
you're buying has been certified as an organic product, after in-depth
testing.
Keep it Local
Some of the very best in organic foods are available right there in your own back yard. It's the closest thing to strolling through the garden and picking the tomatoes yourself. If you've ever tasted fruits and vegetables right off the vine, you know what I mean. Take advantage of what is in season. The savings from the soil to your table really add up and there are no middle-men or distribution costs included. You may even try tilling up your own garden. Don't be afraid to dig your hands into the soil and enjoy the thrill of watching the seeds grow. You can do it!Simplicity is Key
You may be accustomed to pre-packaged and processed food and snacks that have become a staple in your diet for most of your life. It might be time for a change and change is good, especially if it prolongs your life and keeps you and your family healthy. Think of it this way- more calories, more sugar and more salt add up to more dollars you have to spend. Why do we have to spend more money to do possible damage to our hearts? Think grains and vegetables first, meat and poultry second. Soy products, such as milk and yogurt are heart-smart nutritional goodness for our bodies.Get to Know Your Grower
Many organic foods and products are now putting the growers information on the label. You can find their code on the product you buy and visit their website to learn exactly where your food is grown, right down to the latitude-longitude location. Kind of like your green GPS link.Monday, July 30, 2012
Flying Solo Publishing and Songs For Charlie Music is proud to announce a new release from singer-songwriter and Grammy nominee Celeste Friedman:
"I Saw God Down on Hollywood Boulevard"
Now available on CDBaby http://CDbaby.com/cd/celestefriedman3
and in iTunes at http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/i-saw-god-down-on-hollywood/id548471692
"striking and poignant"
"sings like an omen"
"foreboding and very telling of the critical state of our world"
Whether you choose to believe the prophets from the Bible or not, some say that we are now witnessing their premonitions. Over-population and global warming are just the tip of the iceberg.
Throughout the centuries, there have been claims made by people in different parts of the world that the Virgin Mary has appeared to them. A remarkable list of miracles, cures and interventions are attributed to Her. Each year, an estimated 10 million visit the Basilica in Mexico City, the most visited Catholic church in the world, 2nd to The Vatican and the site of the appearance of Our Lady of Guadalupe on December 9, 1531. Including Fatima, and several other global locations, the Virgin Mary's apparition last appeared in Banneaux, Belgium in 1933.
If God, Jesus, Mary and the Holy Spirit all came together to make their presence known now or in the near future, how would we react? Should it ever happen, will we be ready?
c. 2012 Songs For Charlie Music, BMI
http://SongsForCharlieMusic.com
"sings like an omen"
"foreboding and very telling of the critical state of our world"
Whether you choose to believe the prophets from the Bible or not, some say that we are now witnessing their premonitions. Over-population and global warming are just the tip of the iceberg.
Throughout the centuries, there have been claims made by people in different parts of the world that the Virgin Mary has appeared to them. A remarkable list of miracles, cures and interventions are attributed to Her. Each year, an estimated 10 million visit the Basilica in Mexico City, the most visited Catholic church in the world, 2nd to The Vatican and the site of the appearance of Our Lady of Guadalupe on December 9, 1531. Including Fatima, and several other global locations, the Virgin Mary's apparition last appeared in Banneaux, Belgium in 1933.
If God, Jesus, Mary and the Holy Spirit all came together to make their presence known now or in the near future, how would we react? Should it ever happen, will we be ready?
c. 2012 Songs For Charlie Music, BMI
http://SongsForCharlieMusic.com
Friday, June 22, 2012
Latest Release in Single 101 Series
Flying Solo Publishing is proud to announce the latest release in the
Single 101 series from Celeste Friedman.
Single 101: 101 Music Industry Resources and More on Twitter!
For musicians and songwriters who connect with Twitter, this eBook has 101
plus links to music industry experts.
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Happiness and The Single Life
Tracy McMillen, TV writer and contributor to the Huffington Post, published
a blog on June 12, 2012, titled "Single Women Can't Really Be Happy". When I
saw the heading, it ruffled my feathers at first. Reading further, she states,
"eventually, most women I know want to be partnered."
I agree with her findings, but find it very sad. We enter this world alone
and leave it in the same way. It stands to reason that we truly live when we
love, however, that doesn't have to mean that we must be loved by a man or woman
as our life's partner. Reason #63 in my book, "Single 101: 101 Reasons to
Celebrate Being Single" is "You are Not Desperate to Find a Mate."
Secondly, I'm saddened by the fact that articles and blogs like Ms. McMillen's get published because the media loves to spread bad news, negative energy and gossip. Last on the list to make it past the gatekeeper of a magazine or newspaper is a positive story. The Single 101 Nation is all about independence and celebrating the freedom of choice to be single.
It used to seem as though
our mothers, grandmothers and aunts were pressuring us to depend upon a man.
Now, our society via the media wants to shut us in a closet until we come out
begging not to be alone.
Well, guess what? That's not going to happen.
Dear Tracy McMillen,
You could have at least changed your heading to:
"Can Single Women Really Be Happy?"
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Welcome Europe to the Single 101 Nation
Flying Solo Publishing proudly announces the release of Celeste's book,
"Single 101: 101 Reasons to Celebrate Being Single" in several European
markets, including Germany, France, Ireland, Italy and Britain, in addition to
Amazon.co.uk
Purchase a copy for you and a friend on Amazon.com or download in seconds
to your Kindle!
Friday, April 13, 2012
From Southampton to the Depths of the Sea
A musician, composer and performer myself, I salute the brave orchestra members who played until the end after midnight on April 14, 1912, (one-hundred years ago), on board The Titanic. This is just part of their story . . .
Pianist W. Theodore Ronald Brailey, age 24 of London, and cellist Roger Bricoux, age 20 of Lille, France had previously served together on the Cunard steamer Carpathia before signing on with the White Star Line. On April 10, 1912, embarquing from Southampton, Brailey and Bricoux joined cellists Percy Cornelius Taylor, age 32 of London and John Wesley Woodward, age 32 of Oxfordshire; bass violist John Frederick Preston Clarke, age 30 of Liverpool; violinists Georges Alexandre Krins, age 23 of Belgium, John Law Hume, age 29 of Dumfries and Wallace Hartley, age 33 of Dewsbury. Wallace Henry Hartley was also the bandmaster and no stranger to the sea and cruise ships who hired entertainers.
They had all been acquired by C.W. and F.N. Black, a booking agency located in London. Musicians engaged on such ships as the Lusitania, Oceanic and Carpathia would be paid when the White Star Line would pay the agency. Until 1912, musicians were paid 6 pounds and 10 shillings a month plus a monthly uniform allowance of 10 shillings. Then the rates were cut to 4 pounds a month with no uniform allowance. Each man hired to perform on the Titanic was registered on the same ticket: 250654 with accommodations in cabin E, second class.
The Worchester Evening Gazette published an article on the Titanic’s perilous voyage, quoting survivor Miss Hilda Slater . . .
“The orchestra played until the last. From the moment the vessel struck, or as soon as the members of the orchestra could be collected, there was a steady round of lively airs. It did much to keep up the spirits of everyone and probably served as much as the efforts of the officers trying to prevent panic."
Other survivors from the lifeboats recalled seeing the musicians standing in knee-deep water and hearing their performance echo into the night air of ‘Alexander’s Ragtime Band’, ‘Song d’Autumne’ and ‘Nearer My God to Thee', just moments before the great ship was swallowed.
Many often wonder what went through the minds of these courageous and noble musicians. In 1910, Georges Krins entered as first violin at Le Trianon Lyrique in Paris. After that, he traveled to London and played 2 years at the Ritz Hotel until March 1912. The following month, he was recruited by C.W. & F.N. Black in Liverpool to play on the Titanic, while serving as bandmaster of the Trio String Orchestra playing near the Café Français.
The body of John "Jock" Law Hume, was recovered wearing his uniform jacket with green facing and vest, a purple muffler and light raincoat. John Clarke had a crucifix tucked into his uniform pocket and wore a grey muffler and grey overcoat. Wallace Hartley had been a choirboy at the Bethel Independent Methodist Church in Lancashire, where they also held his funeral. He had worked on the Cunard Liner Mauretania before leaving to become bandmaster on the Titanic and planned to return to his fiancée in Yorkshire. John Wesley Woodward joined the White Star Line in 1909 with his first voyage being to Jamaica. He made a number of journeys across the Atlantic, and three across the Mediterranean.
Aforementioned, the bodies of three of the eight band members, Clarke, Hartley and Hume were eventually recovered. The other five were lost to the depths of the icy Atlantic or if recovered, unidentified. May their souls and songs play on forever.
Nearer My God to Thee
Nearer, my God to Thee, Nearer to Thee
E'en though it be a cross that raiseth me
Still all my song shall be
Nearer, my God, to Thee
Nearer, my God, to Thee
Nearer to Thee
Though like the wanderer, the sun gone down
Darkness be over me, my rest a stone
Yet in my dreams I'd be
Nearer, my God, to Thee
Nearer, my God, to Thee
Nearer to Thee
There let my way appear steps unto heaven
All that Thou sendest me in mercy given
Angels to beckon me
Nearer, my God, to Thee
Nearer, my God, to Thee
Nearer to Thee
Words: Sarah Adams, 1841. Music: Lowell Mason, 1856
Pianist W. Theodore Ronald Brailey, age 24 of London, and cellist Roger Bricoux, age 20 of Lille, France had previously served together on the Cunard steamer Carpathia before signing on with the White Star Line. On April 10, 1912, embarquing from Southampton, Brailey and Bricoux joined cellists Percy Cornelius Taylor, age 32 of London and John Wesley Woodward, age 32 of Oxfordshire; bass violist John Frederick Preston Clarke, age 30 of Liverpool; violinists Georges Alexandre Krins, age 23 of Belgium, John Law Hume, age 29 of Dumfries and Wallace Hartley, age 33 of Dewsbury. Wallace Henry Hartley was also the bandmaster and no stranger to the sea and cruise ships who hired entertainers.
They had all been acquired by C.W. and F.N. Black, a booking agency located in London. Musicians engaged on such ships as the Lusitania, Oceanic and Carpathia would be paid when the White Star Line would pay the agency. Until 1912, musicians were paid 6 pounds and 10 shillings a month plus a monthly uniform allowance of 10 shillings. Then the rates were cut to 4 pounds a month with no uniform allowance. Each man hired to perform on the Titanic was registered on the same ticket: 250654 with accommodations in cabin E, second class.
The Worchester Evening Gazette published an article on the Titanic’s perilous voyage, quoting survivor Miss Hilda Slater . . .
“The orchestra played until the last. From the moment the vessel struck, or as soon as the members of the orchestra could be collected, there was a steady round of lively airs. It did much to keep up the spirits of everyone and probably served as much as the efforts of the officers trying to prevent panic."
Other survivors from the lifeboats recalled seeing the musicians standing in knee-deep water and hearing their performance echo into the night air of ‘Alexander’s Ragtime Band’, ‘Song d’Autumne’ and ‘Nearer My God to Thee', just moments before the great ship was swallowed.
Many often wonder what went through the minds of these courageous and noble musicians. In 1910, Georges Krins entered as first violin at Le Trianon Lyrique in Paris. After that, he traveled to London and played 2 years at the Ritz Hotel until March 1912. The following month, he was recruited by C.W. & F.N. Black in Liverpool to play on the Titanic, while serving as bandmaster of the Trio String Orchestra playing near the Café Français.
The body of John "Jock" Law Hume, was recovered wearing his uniform jacket with green facing and vest, a purple muffler and light raincoat. John Clarke had a crucifix tucked into his uniform pocket and wore a grey muffler and grey overcoat. Wallace Hartley had been a choirboy at the Bethel Independent Methodist Church in Lancashire, where they also held his funeral. He had worked on the Cunard Liner Mauretania before leaving to become bandmaster on the Titanic and planned to return to his fiancée in Yorkshire. John Wesley Woodward joined the White Star Line in 1909 with his first voyage being to Jamaica. He made a number of journeys across the Atlantic, and three across the Mediterranean.
Aforementioned, the bodies of three of the eight band members, Clarke, Hartley and Hume were eventually recovered. The other five were lost to the depths of the icy Atlantic or if recovered, unidentified. May their souls and songs play on forever.
Nearer My God to Thee
Nearer, my God to Thee, Nearer to Thee
E'en though it be a cross that raiseth me
Still all my song shall be
Nearer, my God, to Thee
Nearer, my God, to Thee
Nearer to Thee
Though like the wanderer, the sun gone down
Darkness be over me, my rest a stone
Yet in my dreams I'd be
Nearer, my God, to Thee
Nearer, my God, to Thee
Nearer to Thee
There let my way appear steps unto heaven
All that Thou sendest me in mercy given
Angels to beckon me
Nearer, my God, to Thee
Nearer, my God, to Thee
Nearer to Thee
Words: Sarah Adams, 1841. Music: Lowell Mason, 1856
Monday, April 9, 2012
In Search of The Fountain of Youth
Single 101 celebrate its 100th blog posting today. Thank you for checking it out!
The average life expectancy of the world's population is 67.59 years and in the United States, it is 78.49 years. In my book, "Single 101: 101 Reasons to Celebrate Being Single", I added a bonus reason, 'The Secret to A Long and Happy Life'.
Since the human brain has been able to calculate, reason and ponder man's existence, we have dreamed of longevity, fantasized of a fountain of youth and conjured elixirs to maintain good health. A recent report by the Central Intelligence Agency published the Top 10 places in the world for better health and well being, as well as the grand prize- longevity. According to their World Factbook, here are the fountain-of-youth destinations:
At Number 10 is Italy, where the average life expectancy is 81.86 years. The Mediterranean diet is credited with lowering the risk of many diseases. The antioxidants found in olive oil and red wine can improve cholesterol, prevent blood clots and stave off heart disease. Italians also rely on spices like basil, oregano and garlic, while Americans depend heavily on salt.
Number 9 is Australia, where the average life expectancy is 81.90 years, they are proud to boast relatively low smoking and obesity rates, as well as an active lifestyle enjoyed by its citizens.
Hong Kong holds the Number 8 position, where the average life expectancy is 82.12 years. Much like the Italians, people from Hong Kong attribute their longer lives to diet. Rice, vegetables and tofu are staples. With their focus on an active lifestyle, Hong Kong reports a much lower obesity level than the United States, as well as fewer instances of related health conditions, like diabetes.
There is a small island in the English Channel that holds the Number 7 position in the Top 10 picks. With an average life expectancy of 82.24 years, Guernsey is independent from the British crown with wealthy residents, above average healthcare, in addition to low tax rates and higher-paying jobs. Unaffected my the world's economic woes, there are theories that Guernsey's residents live longer because they have no financial burdens or stress.
Nestled between France and Spain with a spectacular view of the Pyrenees mountains is the country of Andorra, coming in at Number 6. It is believed that several reasons attribute to their average life expectancy of 82.5 years. Andorrans have easy access to hiking trails and ski resorts. Its citizens have more focus on outdoor activities, which experts say can lower stress levels and consequently, cardiovascular problems like high blood pressure. Secondly, 100 percent of Andorra's population is well educated, which accounts for Andorra's extremely low unemployment rate and affordability for high-quality nutrition and healthcare.
At Number 5 is San Marino with an average life expectancy of 83.07 years. As in both Guernsey and Andorra, Europe's third smallest state and the world's oldest republic thrives on fortune and the fortunate. San Marino's primary industries are banking and tourism, with the majority of the population capable of affording premium healthcare and nutrition.
A clean environment and balanced diet brings in Singapore at Number 4, with an average life expectancy of 83.75 years. Situated on the southern edge of the Malay Peninsula, Singapore's cuisine centers on rice and vegetables, rich in nutrients that help to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle. The Singapore government also enforces a strict code of cleanliness and heavily restricted smoking areas, providing a healthy environment to live in.
At Number 3 in the world is Japan, with an average life expectancy of 83.91 years. Take a look at this comparison of obesity rates with Japan at 3.1 percent and the United States at 33.9 percent! The Japanese diet revolves around fresh vegetables, rice and fish. Fresh fish is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, promoting healthy blood pressure levels and reducing the risk of heart disease. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids encourage healthy brain function, helping prevent diseases like Alzheimer's. The Japanese tend to walk more and never overeat. Their focus on serenity and the body as a sanctuary is the key to a long life.
With an average life expectancy of 84.43 years is Macau at Number 2. With a fruitful economy, (no pun intended), gambling is the main source of revenue. Located in the South China Sea, Macau is considered as the 'Little Las Vegas'. However, the local government invests casino profits in public healthcare. Macau is healthy, wealthy and wise with a bit of fun and risk mixed in.
Finally, at Number One is Monaco, nestled along the edge of the Mediterranean Sea. Its average life expectancy is 89.68 years, supported, if you will, by an abundance of wealth and state-funded healthcare. As mentioned before, the Mediterranean diet is associated with a reduced risk for a variety of health problems, but even experts will tell you that it's Monaco's relaxing atmosphere that keeps residents happy and living longer. Like Singapore, Monaco's clean environment reduces stress, which can lower immunity and contribute to cardiovascular diseases.
Note that most of these Top 10 picks factor in fresh air, fresh vegetables and fish, cleanliness and financial freedom. Think of the term 'cost of living' and consider how health and longevity are at a premium in today's world.
In the 1500's, the Spanish conquistador Ponce de Leon sailed halfway across the globe in search of the Fountain of Youth, but maybe it was right in his own backyard all along.
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/
The average life expectancy of the world's population is 67.59 years and in the United States, it is 78.49 years. In my book, "Single 101: 101 Reasons to Celebrate Being Single", I added a bonus reason, 'The Secret to A Long and Happy Life'.
Since the human brain has been able to calculate, reason and ponder man's existence, we have dreamed of longevity, fantasized of a fountain of youth and conjured elixirs to maintain good health. A recent report by the Central Intelligence Agency published the Top 10 places in the world for better health and well being, as well as the grand prize- longevity. According to their World Factbook, here are the fountain-of-youth destinations:
At Number 10 is Italy, where the average life expectancy is 81.86 years. The Mediterranean diet is credited with lowering the risk of many diseases. The antioxidants found in olive oil and red wine can improve cholesterol, prevent blood clots and stave off heart disease. Italians also rely on spices like basil, oregano and garlic, while Americans depend heavily on salt.
Number 9 is Australia, where the average life expectancy is 81.90 years, they are proud to boast relatively low smoking and obesity rates, as well as an active lifestyle enjoyed by its citizens.
Hong Kong holds the Number 8 position, where the average life expectancy is 82.12 years. Much like the Italians, people from Hong Kong attribute their longer lives to diet. Rice, vegetables and tofu are staples. With their focus on an active lifestyle, Hong Kong reports a much lower obesity level than the United States, as well as fewer instances of related health conditions, like diabetes.
There is a small island in the English Channel that holds the Number 7 position in the Top 10 picks. With an average life expectancy of 82.24 years, Guernsey is independent from the British crown with wealthy residents, above average healthcare, in addition to low tax rates and higher-paying jobs. Unaffected my the world's economic woes, there are theories that Guernsey's residents live longer because they have no financial burdens or stress.
Nestled between France and Spain with a spectacular view of the Pyrenees mountains is the country of Andorra, coming in at Number 6. It is believed that several reasons attribute to their average life expectancy of 82.5 years. Andorrans have easy access to hiking trails and ski resorts. Its citizens have more focus on outdoor activities, which experts say can lower stress levels and consequently, cardiovascular problems like high blood pressure. Secondly, 100 percent of Andorra's population is well educated, which accounts for Andorra's extremely low unemployment rate and affordability for high-quality nutrition and healthcare.
At Number 5 is San Marino with an average life expectancy of 83.07 years. As in both Guernsey and Andorra, Europe's third smallest state and the world's oldest republic thrives on fortune and the fortunate. San Marino's primary industries are banking and tourism, with the majority of the population capable of affording premium healthcare and nutrition.
A clean environment and balanced diet brings in Singapore at Number 4, with an average life expectancy of 83.75 years. Situated on the southern edge of the Malay Peninsula, Singapore's cuisine centers on rice and vegetables, rich in nutrients that help to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle. The Singapore government also enforces a strict code of cleanliness and heavily restricted smoking areas, providing a healthy environment to live in.
At Number 3 in the world is Japan, with an average life expectancy of 83.91 years. Take a look at this comparison of obesity rates with Japan at 3.1 percent and the United States at 33.9 percent! The Japanese diet revolves around fresh vegetables, rice and fish. Fresh fish is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, promoting healthy blood pressure levels and reducing the risk of heart disease. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids encourage healthy brain function, helping prevent diseases like Alzheimer's. The Japanese tend to walk more and never overeat. Their focus on serenity and the body as a sanctuary is the key to a long life.
With an average life expectancy of 84.43 years is Macau at Number 2. With a fruitful economy, (no pun intended), gambling is the main source of revenue. Located in the South China Sea, Macau is considered as the 'Little Las Vegas'. However, the local government invests casino profits in public healthcare. Macau is healthy, wealthy and wise with a bit of fun and risk mixed in.
Finally, at Number One is Monaco, nestled along the edge of the Mediterranean Sea. Its average life expectancy is 89.68 years, supported, if you will, by an abundance of wealth and state-funded healthcare. As mentioned before, the Mediterranean diet is associated with a reduced risk for a variety of health problems, but even experts will tell you that it's Monaco's relaxing atmosphere that keeps residents happy and living longer. Like Singapore, Monaco's clean environment reduces stress, which can lower immunity and contribute to cardiovascular diseases.
Note that most of these Top 10 picks factor in fresh air, fresh vegetables and fish, cleanliness and financial freedom. Think of the term 'cost of living' and consider how health and longevity are at a premium in today's world.
In the 1500's, the Spanish conquistador Ponce de Leon sailed halfway across the globe in search of the Fountain of Youth, but maybe it was right in his own backyard all along.
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Happy Single Parents Day!
The Single 101 Nation wishes all single parents "Happy Single Parents' Day" today!
According to the 2010 U.S. Census, there are approximately 13.6 million single men and women raising children in America alone. Almost one out of every three children is raised by a single parent. That's up to 26%, a huge increase compared to the statistics in 1960, where only 9% of children were raised by one parent.
Across the globe, single parenthood is the result of several scenarios: divorce, death of a spouse, an absentee parent or by choice. However, single parenthood is not often by choice, creating a new challenge to take on double duty raising their family. When asked how they keep all the plates spinning, most will admit that you just do what you have to do. We admire their courage and determination. Many children of single parents will tell you that they grew up in a loving environment and have more respect and admiration for their mother or father who raised them.
Just two weeks ago, Glenn Grothmann, A GOP senator from Wisconsin, who in my opinion is purely attempting to gain his fifteen minutes of fame, acquired face time on national news for promoting the proposed bill 48.982, which states: "To promote statewide educational and public awareness campaigns and materials for the purpose of developing public awareness of the problems of child abuse and neglect. In promoting those campaigns and materials, the board shall emphasize non-marital parenthood as a contributing factor to child abuse and neglect."
His keyword here is 'emphasize'. Grothmann's true agenda is to gain followers in the belief that single parenting leads to child abuse and neglect. He just doesn't get it. The real truth is, he isn't intelligent enough to get behind the current issues that matter, like jobs, high gas prices and turning around the U.S. economy. Has the senator forgotten that single parents vote and that some happen to be republicans?
Like presidential candidate Rick Santortum, Senator Grothmann has to start a conversation about other issues that in his mind makes him powerful, because he doesn't excel in finding solutions to other issues of greater urgency. Unfortunately, these men are heading over the proverbial bridge to nowhere.
Some things just need to be said, but the focus today is on the greatness and strength of our American citizens who are surviving as single parents. We salute you!
According to the 2010 U.S. Census, there are approximately 13.6 million single men and women raising children in America alone. Almost one out of every three children is raised by a single parent. That's up to 26%, a huge increase compared to the statistics in 1960, where only 9% of children were raised by one parent.
Across the globe, single parenthood is the result of several scenarios: divorce, death of a spouse, an absentee parent or by choice. However, single parenthood is not often by choice, creating a new challenge to take on double duty raising their family. When asked how they keep all the plates spinning, most will admit that you just do what you have to do. We admire their courage and determination. Many children of single parents will tell you that they grew up in a loving environment and have more respect and admiration for their mother or father who raised them.
Just two weeks ago, Glenn Grothmann, A GOP senator from Wisconsin, who in my opinion is purely attempting to gain his fifteen minutes of fame, acquired face time on national news for promoting the proposed bill 48.982, which states: "To promote statewide educational and public awareness campaigns and materials for the purpose of developing public awareness of the problems of child abuse and neglect. In promoting those campaigns and materials, the board shall emphasize non-marital parenthood as a contributing factor to child abuse and neglect."
His keyword here is 'emphasize'. Grothmann's true agenda is to gain followers in the belief that single parenting leads to child abuse and neglect. He just doesn't get it. The real truth is, he isn't intelligent enough to get behind the current issues that matter, like jobs, high gas prices and turning around the U.S. economy. Has the senator forgotten that single parents vote and that some happen to be republicans?
Like presidential candidate Rick Santortum, Senator Grothmann has to start a conversation about other issues that in his mind makes him powerful, because he doesn't excel in finding solutions to other issues of greater urgency. Unfortunately, these men are heading over the proverbial bridge to nowhere.
Some things just need to be said, but the focus today is on the greatness and strength of our American citizens who are surviving as single parents. We salute you!
Thursday, March 1, 2012
What He Wishes You Knew
Since the Garden of Eden, when Eve offered Adam the apple, men and women have always wondered what the opposite sex really wants.
Men's Health magazine recently published a fun article on the subject, "50 Things Men Wish Women Knew" and here are Single 101's Top 10 picks from that list.
1. If you're truly interested, don't play hard to get.
2. When I screw up, go ahead and tell me.
3. Shopping is a chore, not an activity.
4. Leave the eyebrows alone. Plucked is not pretty.
5. Men crave hugs and hand-holding too, but it doesn't always have to lead to sex.
6. If I offer my help when you're getting ready to go out, it means you're late!
7. Men love ponytails.
8. If you can hit a ball 150 yards, we just might fall in love.
9. Do not expect to have a conversation via text message, unless you use the words "naked" and "waiting".
10. Men don't ask for directions because they're just happy to be driving.
For more, go to http://menshealth.com/ and comment back on your favorites.
Enjoy!
Men's Health magazine recently published a fun article on the subject, "50 Things Men Wish Women Knew" and here are Single 101's Top 10 picks from that list.
1. If you're truly interested, don't play hard to get.
2. When I screw up, go ahead and tell me.
3. Shopping is a chore, not an activity.
4. Leave the eyebrows alone. Plucked is not pretty.
5. Men crave hugs and hand-holding too, but it doesn't always have to lead to sex.
6. If I offer my help when you're getting ready to go out, it means you're late!
7. Men love ponytails.
8. If you can hit a ball 150 yards, we just might fall in love.
9. Do not expect to have a conversation via text message, unless you use the words "naked" and "waiting".
10. Men don't ask for directions because they're just happy to be driving.
For more, go to http://menshealth.com/ and comment back on your favorites.
Enjoy!
Monday, February 20, 2012
Can We Escape Financial Ruin?
The unemployment rate in the United States has been a talking point in this year's presidential campaign, only sometimes taking a backseat to distractions of topics like contraception and bickering among the GOP candidates. How can we know what the real unemployment numbers are? News giants like CNN and CNBC report the monthly rise and fall of unemployment in America, along with totals of new hires. These are not true indicators as companies are hiring new employees while other companies are laying off workers simultaneously. What can we do to escape financial ruin?
Single 101 examined the Top Five cities in the United States with the lowest unemployment rates and wanted to learn more about the economic climate of each of those cities. If you're fed up with standing in the unemployment line or just one paycheck from being homeless, you may want to consider relocating. Whether you're single, married, in a relationship, just graduated from college or considering a change to improve your quality of life, here are some facts you may want to know.
City Number 5- Sioux Falls, South Dakota
In May 2005, for the third consecutive year, Forbes Magazine named Sioux Falls the "Best Small City" for business and careers. Forbes based their ranking on employment, job and income growth, cost of doing business, crime rate, housing costs, and net migration. The Sioux Falls economy is comprised of a diversity of sectors, including finance, healthcare, retailing, agriculture, tourism, distribution and trade.
As one of the world's largest stockyards, Sioux Falls has traditionally been a center for the agricultural industry. John Morrell & Company, a meat packer, is the city's third largest employer. When Citicorp moved its credit card operations to Sioux Falls in 1980, it launched the city to new heights in financial services. In the two decades since that time, other financial companies followed where the main offices of state and regional banks, as well as brokerage and insurance firms with nationwide connections, are based in the downtown financial district.
Sioux Falls has emerged as a regional health care center, with the two major hospitals ranking as the top employers in the city, employing roughly 9,000 combined. Private physician clinics employ more than 1,000 workers. Recognized as the largest retail center between Denver and Minneapolis-St. Paul, Sioux Falls attracts more than 14 million shoppers annually with approximately 3,228 retail outlets employing 20 percent of its labor force.
City Number 4- Burlington, Vermont
Greater Burlington is the industrial, tourist, and financial center of the state of Vermont. Manufacturing is the largest industry in Burlington, led by the electronics industries that had fueled an industrial boom during the 1990s. This region of the state supports nearly one-third of Vermont's manufacturing employment. Items and goods produced: electronics and computer parts; food products; textiles; apparel; lumber; paper and wood products; furniture and fixtures; chemicals and allied products; petroleum, coal, rubber, plastic, leather, stone, clay, and glass products; toys; jewelry; primary and fabricated metals; machinery and electrical equipment; instruments.
The 20-block downtown shopping and residential district alone accounts for 9,000 workers in positions such as service, government and retail, making it the second largest employment area in the state. Tourism is the area's second largest industry and several banks are also headquartered there.
City Number 3- Fargo, North Dakota
The Fargo economy is based on education, the medical industry, agricultural equipment manufacturing, retailing, and services. The city itself is a retail magnet for the entire Upper Plains. Per capita, retail spending is usually among the nation's highest because so many people from the region go to Fargo to do their shopping. Because of its central location, the city is a transportation hub for the northern Midwest region. In recent years, software companies have brought a touch of Silicon Valley to the area as well.
Agriculture has long been of primary importance to Fargo, as the Red River Valley area contains some of the richest farmland in the world. Related industries include agribusiness and agricultural research. The principal manufacturing employer is Case I H, makers of heavy-duty tractors. Terminals for two oil pipeline systems—Standard Oil Company of Indiana and Great Lakes Pipeline Company of Oklahoma—are located in Fargo-Moorhead. The Standard Oil pipeline is connected with the company's refinery in Whiting, Indiana, which produces more than 30,000 barrels of oil a day.
City Number 2- Lincoln, Nebraska
In May 2005, Forbes Magazine chose Lincoln as the seventh "Best Smaller Metro" area for business and careers with a third place ranking for income growth. Located in a grain and livestock producing region, Lincoln is a communications, distribution, and wholesaling hub. Important industries are the manufacture and repair of locomotives, flour and feed milling, grain storage, and diversified manufacturing.
State government and the University of Nebraska constitute approximately a quarter of the city's economy. Nebraska's median household income grew more than any other state's last year, according to recent U.S. Census data. The Census report shows that Nebraska's median income increased last year by more than $300 per family, to $48,408, which is 0.7 percent jump over 2009's figure. Only Washington, D.C., had a bigger jump, at 0.8 percent.
City NUMBER ONE- Bismark, North Dakota
Bismarck has a strong, diversified economy that has been continually expanding since the 1980s. As the capital city of North Dakota, it serves as a major hub for government, business and finance, as well as a distribution center for the agricultural industry. Services and retail trade continue to dominate the local market, together employing more than 50 percent of the non-agricultural workforce.
The state government is Bismarck's largest employer with more than 4,300 workers. The health care industry is second; MedCenter One and St. Alexius hospitals and their related clinics employ more than 4,100. Bismarck Public Schools and the federal government each employ more than 1,000 people.
With the exception of Burlington, I have personally traveled to and worked in four of the aforementioned cities. I can guarantee extreme cold and lots of snow during the winter months and extreme heat through the summer. The people of these areas are the real reason for their success, their values and determination. I wonder why there isn't anyone from the Top Five Cities running for president. You never hear about home foreclosures in their parts of the country. Do they know something Washington, DC doesn't know? Guess they aren't giving away any secrets.
Single 101 examined the Top Five cities in the United States with the lowest unemployment rates and wanted to learn more about the economic climate of each of those cities. If you're fed up with standing in the unemployment line or just one paycheck from being homeless, you may want to consider relocating. Whether you're single, married, in a relationship, just graduated from college or considering a change to improve your quality of life, here are some facts you may want to know.
City Number 5- Sioux Falls, South Dakota
In May 2005, for the third consecutive year, Forbes Magazine named Sioux Falls the "Best Small City" for business and careers. Forbes based their ranking on employment, job and income growth, cost of doing business, crime rate, housing costs, and net migration. The Sioux Falls economy is comprised of a diversity of sectors, including finance, healthcare, retailing, agriculture, tourism, distribution and trade.
As one of the world's largest stockyards, Sioux Falls has traditionally been a center for the agricultural industry. John Morrell & Company, a meat packer, is the city's third largest employer. When Citicorp moved its credit card operations to Sioux Falls in 1980, it launched the city to new heights in financial services. In the two decades since that time, other financial companies followed where the main offices of state and regional banks, as well as brokerage and insurance firms with nationwide connections, are based in the downtown financial district.
Sioux Falls has emerged as a regional health care center, with the two major hospitals ranking as the top employers in the city, employing roughly 9,000 combined. Private physician clinics employ more than 1,000 workers. Recognized as the largest retail center between Denver and Minneapolis-St. Paul, Sioux Falls attracts more than 14 million shoppers annually with approximately 3,228 retail outlets employing 20 percent of its labor force.
City Number 4- Burlington, Vermont
Greater Burlington is the industrial, tourist, and financial center of the state of Vermont. Manufacturing is the largest industry in Burlington, led by the electronics industries that had fueled an industrial boom during the 1990s. This region of the state supports nearly one-third of Vermont's manufacturing employment. Items and goods produced: electronics and computer parts; food products; textiles; apparel; lumber; paper and wood products; furniture and fixtures; chemicals and allied products; petroleum, coal, rubber, plastic, leather, stone, clay, and glass products; toys; jewelry; primary and fabricated metals; machinery and electrical equipment; instruments.
The 20-block downtown shopping and residential district alone accounts for 9,000 workers in positions such as service, government and retail, making it the second largest employment area in the state. Tourism is the area's second largest industry and several banks are also headquartered there.
City Number 3- Fargo, North Dakota
The Fargo economy is based on education, the medical industry, agricultural equipment manufacturing, retailing, and services. The city itself is a retail magnet for the entire Upper Plains. Per capita, retail spending is usually among the nation's highest because so many people from the region go to Fargo to do their shopping. Because of its central location, the city is a transportation hub for the northern Midwest region. In recent years, software companies have brought a touch of Silicon Valley to the area as well.
Agriculture has long been of primary importance to Fargo, as the Red River Valley area contains some of the richest farmland in the world. Related industries include agribusiness and agricultural research. The principal manufacturing employer is Case I H, makers of heavy-duty tractors. Terminals for two oil pipeline systems—Standard Oil Company of Indiana and Great Lakes Pipeline Company of Oklahoma—are located in Fargo-Moorhead. The Standard Oil pipeline is connected with the company's refinery in Whiting, Indiana, which produces more than 30,000 barrels of oil a day.
City Number 2- Lincoln, Nebraska
In May 2005, Forbes Magazine chose Lincoln as the seventh "Best Smaller Metro" area for business and careers with a third place ranking for income growth. Located in a grain and livestock producing region, Lincoln is a communications, distribution, and wholesaling hub. Important industries are the manufacture and repair of locomotives, flour and feed milling, grain storage, and diversified manufacturing.
State government and the University of Nebraska constitute approximately a quarter of the city's economy. Nebraska's median household income grew more than any other state's last year, according to recent U.S. Census data. The Census report shows that Nebraska's median income increased last year by more than $300 per family, to $48,408, which is 0.7 percent jump over 2009's figure. Only Washington, D.C., had a bigger jump, at 0.8 percent.
City NUMBER ONE- Bismark, North Dakota
Bismarck has a strong, diversified economy that has been continually expanding since the 1980s. As the capital city of North Dakota, it serves as a major hub for government, business and finance, as well as a distribution center for the agricultural industry. Services and retail trade continue to dominate the local market, together employing more than 50 percent of the non-agricultural workforce.
The state government is Bismarck's largest employer with more than 4,300 workers. The health care industry is second; MedCenter One and St. Alexius hospitals and their related clinics employ more than 4,100. Bismarck Public Schools and the federal government each employ more than 1,000 people.
With the exception of Burlington, I have personally traveled to and worked in four of the aforementioned cities. I can guarantee extreme cold and lots of snow during the winter months and extreme heat through the summer. The people of these areas are the real reason for their success, their values and determination. I wonder why there isn't anyone from the Top Five Cities running for president. You never hear about home foreclosures in their parts of the country. Do they know something Washington, DC doesn't know? Guess they aren't giving away any secrets.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Fear of Valentine's Day
According to a recent study by a popular dating service called It's Just Lunch, men do not hate Valentine's Day, but actually fear it. In a poll involving 4400 North American men and women, 42 percent of males claimed that finding a mate was at the top of their list. 35 percent said they never put any effort into looking for "the one", and a full third of single men admitted they intentionally avoid getting into relationships between Thanksgiving and Valentine's Day. If you probe deeper, it's not the holiday alone they fear, but the fear of rejection through the holidays, in addition to impulsive buying and racking up higher balances on their credit cards.
40% of the women surveyed say they don't expect a Valentine's gift unless they're in a committed relationship, or into three months of dating the same guy. For women dating less than two weeks, 4% expected a Valentine's Day gift. So, if women say they aren't expecting the candy, roses and maybe a dinner date, what places terror in the hearts of single men?
It’s Just Lunch spokesperson, Jacquie Brownridge says keep it simple: "If there's ever a time for men to shed their shyness, Valentine's Day is it. It takes much less than men expect for women to feel appreciated, and every gesture gets bonus points on Valentine's Day. At the very least, smile at a woman you've never met before, she'll think cupid's taking aim and may strike up a conversation."
42 percent of the men in the survey said finding a compatible match was their No. 1 priority for the coming year, compared to 24 percent who ranked career as their top priority. 12 percent would like to go out on more dates, 12 percent rated health as their top priority and 10 percent were focused on growing personal wealth.
Men and women agreed that friends and family are the best means of finding compatible matches, followed by a dating service and all are open to going out with someone they meet on a social network like Facebook. Men were more likely to think a bar vs. the gym is better for meeting prospective dates.
41 percent of the men surveyed think it’s too corny to schedule a first date on Valentine’s Day, whereas 62 percent of women said they would. Only 4 percent of women put a box of chocolates on their list of nice Valentine’s Day gifts. They perceive chocolates as a last-minute gift idea and impersonal. Flowers are the ideal gift for over a third of single women in the survey and only 8 percent of women consider sexy lingerie a welcoming Valentine’s Day offering.
After all the surveys and interviews, single men still shudder at the thought of Valentine's Day, mostly intimidated and afraid their idea of celebrating or gift giving will not be enough or never satisfy the one they love. Still begging the age old question, just what do women want???
Happy Valentine's Day!
40% of the women surveyed say they don't expect a Valentine's gift unless they're in a committed relationship, or into three months of dating the same guy. For women dating less than two weeks, 4% expected a Valentine's Day gift. So, if women say they aren't expecting the candy, roses and maybe a dinner date, what places terror in the hearts of single men?
It’s Just Lunch spokesperson, Jacquie Brownridge says keep it simple: "If there's ever a time for men to shed their shyness, Valentine's Day is it. It takes much less than men expect for women to feel appreciated, and every gesture gets bonus points on Valentine's Day. At the very least, smile at a woman you've never met before, she'll think cupid's taking aim and may strike up a conversation."
42 percent of the men in the survey said finding a compatible match was their No. 1 priority for the coming year, compared to 24 percent who ranked career as their top priority. 12 percent would like to go out on more dates, 12 percent rated health as their top priority and 10 percent were focused on growing personal wealth.
Men and women agreed that friends and family are the best means of finding compatible matches, followed by a dating service and all are open to going out with someone they meet on a social network like Facebook. Men were more likely to think a bar vs. the gym is better for meeting prospective dates.
41 percent of the men surveyed think it’s too corny to schedule a first date on Valentine’s Day, whereas 62 percent of women said they would. Only 4 percent of women put a box of chocolates on their list of nice Valentine’s Day gifts. They perceive chocolates as a last-minute gift idea and impersonal. Flowers are the ideal gift for over a third of single women in the survey and only 8 percent of women consider sexy lingerie a welcoming Valentine’s Day offering.
After all the surveys and interviews, single men still shudder at the thought of Valentine's Day, mostly intimidated and afraid their idea of celebrating or gift giving will not be enough or never satisfy the one they love. Still begging the age old question, just what do women want???
Happy Valentine's Day!
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
CD Baby Release
Songs For Charlie Music is proud to announce that Celeste's R&B ballad, "What Would John Lennon Say?" can now be downloaded for purchase on CDBaby and very soon on iTunes and several digital outlets online.Here's the CDBaby link: http://cdbaby.com/cd/celestefriedman2
Share it with friends and spread it across the globe!
Monday, January 23, 2012
People and Dates to Remember
Thank you to everyone sharing my new eBook, "Single 101: 101 New Year's Resolutions"!
Resolution #88:
Update your calendar every year with birthdays, anniversaries and notable dates.
This is the time to take advantage of a snowy weekend. It's so much more convenient to update this year's calendar before you toss out last year's. The greatest part of this resolution is knowing that you won't forget important dates, like birthdays of loved ones and friends. Yes! Can you believe it? Single people have loved ones and friends too.
Next on the list, I know, are the taxes, just another task for the weekends ahead. Ugh!
If you'd like to download a copy of the eBook, just go to the Kindle Store. By the magic of cyberspace, you'll have it in seconds! "Single 101: 101 New Year's Resolutions". It's only $3.99!
Here's the link:
http://www.amazon.com/Single-101-Years-Resolutions-ebook/dp/B006RY6IP4
Happy New Year!
Resolution #88:
Update your calendar every year with birthdays, anniversaries and notable dates.
This is the time to take advantage of a snowy weekend. It's so much more convenient to update this year's calendar before you toss out last year's. The greatest part of this resolution is knowing that you won't forget important dates, like birthdays of loved ones and friends. Yes! Can you believe it? Single people have loved ones and friends too.
Next on the list, I know, are the taxes, just another task for the weekends ahead. Ugh!
If you'd like to download a copy of the eBook, just go to the Kindle Store. By the magic of cyberspace, you'll have it in seconds! "Single 101: 101 New Year's Resolutions". It's only $3.99!
Here's the link:
http://www.amazon.com/Single-101-Years-Resolutions-ebook/dp/B006RY6IP4
Happy New Year!
Sunday, January 1, 2012
A New eBook for The Single 101 Nation
Thank you once again to everyone who shared our celebration broadcast across the world on The Starliner's Radio Network. What a great opportunity to share my music and hear from fans across the globe!
Also, to welcome 2012, I've just published a fun eBook for The Single 101 Nation, "Single 101: 101 New Year's Resolutions". You can download it in just thirty seconds in The Kindle Store.
Here is the direct link:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B006RY6IP4
Happy New Year!
Also, to welcome 2012, I've just published a fun eBook for The Single 101 Nation, "Single 101: 101 New Year's Resolutions". You can download it in just thirty seconds in The Kindle Store.
Here is the direct link:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B006RY6IP4
Happy New Year!
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