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Side Splitters Comedy Club | Tampa Bay’s premier comedy showplace since 1992

Looking for a good laugh? Look no further than Side Splitters Comedy Club! This Tampa Bay-based comedy club has been entertaining audiences since 1992 and is known for hosting some of the top comedians in the country. With shows at three different locations, there’s sure to be a show that’s just right for you. So come on out and enjoy some laughs – you won’t be disappointed!

For more information about our shows: https://www.sidesplitterscomedy.com/

Side Splitters Comedy Club: The Best Comedy Club In The Country!  

The demand for Side Splitters Comedy Club tickets has never been higher. For this reason, Side Splitters has recently expanded to two more locations.  

The first Side Splitters Comedy Club was founded in Tampa in 1992. It has been a staple in the Tampa comedy scene for years and continues to be one of the most popular comedy clubs in the country. The second location opened in The Grove, located in Wesley Chapel, and the third location just opened in downtown St. Petersburg. For more information click here.

Side Splitters Comedy Club features some of the best comedians in the country. They have had the privilege of hosting comics such as Jim Breuer, Ari Shaffir, and many more. If you’re looking for a good laugh, then look no further than Side Splitters! Click here to view our calendar and see who’s coming to Side Splitters Comedy Club soon.

About Side Splitters Comedy Club  

Side Splitters Comedy Club is one of the most popular comedy clubs in the country. With locations in Tampa, Wesley Chapel, and St. Pete, there’s sure to be a show that’s just right for you. So come on out and enjoy some laughs – you won’t be disappointed!

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Energy & Environment Home & Garden Lifestyle Professional Services U.S

Merlin’s AC And Plumbing Offers Maintenance Plans For Winter Tune-Ups And Air Duct Cleaning

As the temperatures begin to drop, you might have realized your heating and cooling system isn’t as efficient as it used to be. What you need is professional duct cleaning to get your HVAC system back to optimal condition. And what better way to do that than with an air duct cleaning maintenance plan from Merlin’s AC And Plumbing?

With their air duct cleaning and HVAC system services, Merlin’s can help you make sure your home’s indoor air quality is top-notch and comfortable all winter long. Get your air ducts cleaned, check your HVAC heating and cooling system, and more – all so you can relax and enjoy the change of season.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Check out their website for more information on cleaning air ducts in your home.

What Are Air Ducts?  

Air ducts are the system of tubes that carry air to and from your HVAC system. They are usually made of metal and covered in insulation. Unfortunately, over time they can become clogged with dust, pollen, and other debris. When dust and dirt buildup in your air ducts, it can cause allergies, asthma, and other respiratory problems.

That’s why it’s so important to have them cleaned on a regular basis. And with Merlin’s AC And Plumbing, you can rest assured knowing that your air ducts are in good hands. They use the latest air duct cleaning tools and techniques to get your air ducts clean and clear, so you can breathe easy all winter long.

How Often Should You Do Air Duct Cleaning?  

Most experts recommend having your air ducts cleaned every 3-5 years. However, if you have pets or allergies, you may want to consider cleaning them more often.

Cleaning your air ducts on a regular basis will reduce energy consumption, improve indoor air quality, and extend the life of your HVAC system.

What Are The Benefits Of Cleaning Air Ducts?  

– Reduced energy consumption: When your air ducts are clogged, your HVAC system has to work harder to circulate air throughout your home. This can lead to higher energy bills and decreased efficiency.

– Improved indoor air quality: Dust and dirt buildup in your air ducts can cause allergies, asthma, and other respiratory problems. By cleaning your air ducts on a regular basis, you can improve the air quality in your home and reduce the risk of health problems.

– Extended life of your HVAC system: When your air ducts are clogged, it puts extra strain on your HVAC system. This can lead to premature wear and tear, and may even result in the need for repairs or replacement.

Cleaning your air ducts is an important part of maintaining your home’s heating and cooling system. And with Merlin’s AC And Plumbing, it’s easy and affordable.

How To Know When It’s Time To Clean Your Air Ducts  

If it’s been 3-5 years since your last cleaning, or you’re noticing more dust around your home, it may be time to have your air ducts cleaned. You can also check to see if your vents are clogged or if there is debris coming out of them when the heating and cooling system is on. If so, it’s time for a cleaning.

Another way to tell if your air ducts need to be cleaned is if you notice a musty smell when the HVAC system is on. This could be a sign of mold or mildew, which can cause health problems.

If you get allergies as soon as you enter your home, it may also be time for an air duct cleaning. Allergens like dust, pollen, and pet dander can build up in your air ducts and cause symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes.

Cleaning your dirty air ducts will help remove these allergens from your home and improve your health.

If you’re not sure whether or not your air ducts need to be cleaned, you can always contact Merlin’s AC And Plumbing for a free consultation. They will inspect your air vents and let you know if they need to be cleaned.

What Is The Cost Of Air Duct Cleaning?  

The cost of cleaning dirty air ducts will depend on the size of your home and the number of air vents and ducts that need to be cleaned. The average cost is between $200 and $400. However, if you have a large home or a lot of air vents and ducts, the cost could be higher.

Merlin’s AC & Plumbing works differently. You will subscribe to a monthly subscription plan for $10, $15, or $25 per month. Included in these plans are monthly air duct cleaning services. All services from Merlin’s are offered on a discounted basis if you have a monthly subscription. They are also available 24/7 so you can get your HVAC system repaired at any time of the day and night.

What Is Included In An Air Duct Cleaning Session?  

When you have your air ducts cleaned by Merlin’s AC And Plumbing, they will use special air duct cleaning tools to remove all the dust and debris from your air vents. This includes cleaning the vents, registers, grilles, and diffusers. They will also clean any other parts of your HVAC system that may be affected by dust and dirt buildup like the cooling coils.

After your air ducts have been cleaned, they will seal all unnecessary openings to prevent dust and debris from entering the system again. They will also apply an anti-microbial coating to prevent mold and mildew from growing in your air ducts.

Get ahead of the winter rush and schedule your air duct cleaning maintenance in advance.

What Should I Expect From An Air Duct Cleaning Service Provider?  

When you hire an air duct cleaning service provider, they will come to your home and inspect your duct work. They will then use powerful vacuums and brushes to clean out all the dust, debris, and dirt from your ducts. In some cases, they may also use chemical cleaning solutions to remove any stubborn build-up and mold.

After your ducts have been cleaned, they will seal any openings and make sure that everything is secure. This will help to prevent future build-up and keep your air ducts clean for longer.

If you’re looking for a professional and reliable air duct cleaning service provider, look no further than Merlin’s AC&Plumbing.

Suggestions For Choosing A Duct Cleaning Service Provider  

When choosing an air duct cleaning service provider, it’s important to do your research. Make sure to read reviews and check references before making a decision.

You should also ask about the cleaning methods they use, as well as what kind of guarantee they offer. This will help you to know what to expect and ensure that you’re getting the best possible service.

If you’re ready to get your air ducts cleaned, check out Merlin’s AC And Plumbing. They will be happy to answer any questions you have and help you get started on a maintenance plan that’s right for you.

How Is Duct Cleaning Performed?  

Duct cleaning is the process of cleaning out your home’s air ducts. This is usually done with a vacuum and brushes, and in some cases, chemical cleaning solutions. The purpose of duct cleaning is to remove dust, debris, and dirt from your duct work so that you can breathe easier and improve your overall indoor air quality.

Can I Clean My Air Ducts Myself?  

Yes, you can clean your ducts and cooling coils if you have the right tools to do so. It is, however, recommended to schedule air duct cleanings from professionals to ensure that all systems stay in top condition. Between maintenance schedules, it is possible to clean what you can reach by yourself.

More About Merlin’s AC And Plumbing  

Merlin’s AC and Plumbing has been providing quality air duct cleaning services for over 10 years. They are a family-owned and operated business and take pride in their work. They use the latest cleaning techniques and equipment to get your air ducts clean and clear, so you can breathe easy all winter long.

For more information, check out their social media profiles here: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

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Surgeon & Associates Ranks No. 3504 on the 2022 Inc. 5000 Annual List

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Fayetteville,NC August 16, 2022 – Today, Inc. revealed that Surgeon & Associates is No. 3504 on its annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in America. The list represents a one-of-a-kind look at the most successful companies within the economy’s most dynamic segment—its independent businesses. Facebook, Chobani, Under Armour, Microsoft, Patagonia, and many other well-known names gained their first national exposure as honorees on the Inc. 5000.

 The companies on the 2022 Inc. 5000 have not only been successful, but have also demonstrated resilience amid supply chain woes, labor shortages, and the ongoing impact of Covid-19. Among the top 500, the average median three-year revenue growth rate soared to 2,144 percent. Together, those companies added more than 68,394 jobs over the past three years.

“We are delighted to be recognized for the growth of our organization. Surgeon & Associates, Inc. stands by our vision of being committed as a responsible employer focusing on exceeding customer expectations by utilizing integrity, efficiency, work ethic, and family-centered values.” says Frederick D. Surgeon CEO of Surgeon & Associates.

 

Complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, region, and other criteria, can be found at www.inc.com/inc5000. The top 500 companies are featured in the September issue of Inc. magazine, which will be available on August 23.

 

“The accomplishment of building one of the fastest-growing companies in the U.S., in light of recent economic roadblocks, cannot be overstated,” says Scott Omelianuk, editor-in-chief of Inc. “Inc. is thrilled to honor the companies that have established themselves through innovation, hard work, and rising to the challenges of today.” 

More about Inc. and the Inc. 5000

 

Methodology

Companies on the 2022 Inc. 5000 are ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2018 to 2021. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2018. They must be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independent—not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies—as of December 31, 2021. (Since then, some on the list may have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2018 is $100,000; the minimum for 2021 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons. Growth rates used to determine company rankings were calculated to four decimal places. The top 500 companies on the Inc. 5000 are featured in Inc. magazine’s September issue. The entire Inc. 5000 can be found at http://www.inc.com/inc5000.

 

About Inc.

The world’s most trusted business-media brand, Inc. offers entrepreneurs the knowledge, tools, connections, and community to build great companies. Its award-winning multiplatform content reaches more than 50 million people each month across a variety of channels including websites, newsletters, social media, podcasts, and print. Its prestigious Inc. 5000 list, produced every year since 1982, analyzes company data to recognize the fastest-growing privately held businesses in the United States. The global recognition that comes with inclusion in the 5000 gives the founders of the best businesses an opportunity to engage with an exclusive community of their peers, and the credibility that helps them drive sales and recruit talent. The associated Inc. 5000 Conference & Gala is part of a highly acclaimed portfolio of bespoke events produced by Inc. For more information, visit www.inc.com.

 

For more information on the Inc. 5000 Conference & Gala, visit http://conference.inc.com/.  

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Arts & Entertainment Hospitality Lifestyle Living U.S

Cam Kline Music from Grand Cayman Island to Orlando’s local bar and restaurant music scene.

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Orlando Florida – August 3rd, 2022: Cam Kline Music will visit Orlando Florida from the Grand Cayman Island August 5th-10th to perform on a local bar and restaurant music tour. Cam lives on Grand Cayman Island and offers a wide range of live music entertainment. As a solo acoustic performance, Cam entertains crowds at local bars, restaurants, private parties, and corporate events with his guitar and vocals.

Cam’s music selection spans generations from the ’80s, ’90s, ’00s, and today. His music selection blends a perfect mix of rock, country, and pop to keep everyone in attendance smiling, dancing, and buying drinks. He surprises audiences with his versatility as he performs on the drums and piano in a full-band show. His versatility doesn’t stop there either, Cam leverages his musicality to spin the best DJ mixes for all events and parties.

On Friday, August 5th Cam will begin a six-show tour through Orlando Florida’s local bar and restaurant music scene. Cam will play a variety of venues in the Sodo, Ivanhoe, I-Drive, and Thornton Park areas near downtown Orlando.

Friday, August 5th from 6pm – 9pm at Vanbarry’s Public House located at 4120 S Orange Ave. Orlando FL. 32806.

Saturday, August 6th from 6pm – 9pm at The waterfront located at 4201 S Orange Ave. Orlando FL. 32806.

Sunday, August 7th from 11am – 3pm at ’39 Poolside bar and grill | Rosen Plaza located at 9700 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819.

Sunday, August 7th from 6pm – 9pm at Graffiti Junktion in Thorton Park located at 700 E. Washington St. Orlando, FL 32801.

Tuesday, August 9th from 6pm – 9pm at The 808 Orlando located at 808 E. Washington Street Orlando, FL 32801.

Wednesday, August 10th from 7:30pm – 10:30pm at Elevate Rooftop Lounge located at 2000 N. Orange Ave. Orlando FL. 32804.

All shows will be complimentary entertainment for patrons of the bar or restaurant venues.

If you would like more detailed information about these events please visit CamKlineMusic.com

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Arts & Entertainment Food & Beverage Leisure Activities Lifestyle Living

Thornton Park District is Hosting the 8th Annual Putt N’ Pour In Orlando

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Orlando, FL – July 19th, 2022 – The Thornton Park District will be hosting the 8th annual Putt N’ Pour Minature Golf Pub Crawl In the Downtown area of Orlando near Lake Eola Park.

Day Drinking “Golfers” will be challenged by holes designed and built by eleven Thornton Park District bars and restaurants while enjoying beverage specials and prize giveaways.

After the crawl, golfers and spectators converge at Cavo’s Bar & Kitchen for the official post-party complete with drink specials, and raffles!

Participants will receive one free Tito’s John Daly Cocktail per ticket purchase at check-in!!

This event will take place on Saturday, July 23rd from 12:00 pm-4:00 pm. Guests will check in for the event in the TPD Circle located at 431 E. Central Blvd. Tickets for the event will be $15 in advance and $20 the day of for singles. Foursomes can play for $40 in advance and $50 the day of.

Pub Crawlers will enjoy playing minature gold holes while having drinks at World of Beer, Aku Aku Tiki, The Abbey (set up at the TPD Circle), Eola Wine Company, Dolce, Bynx Orlando, Graffiti Junktion, The Veranda, Burton’s Bar, The 808, and Cavo’s Bar & Restaurant.

If you would like more information or join in the fun you can get more details at The Putt N’ Pour

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Health & Medicine Lifestyle U.S

UltraPharmRX Is Discussing Diabetes-Related Erectile Dysfunction

UltraPharmRx, a digital Telehealth service for men that connects you to US-licensed physicians for treatment of sexual health, hair loss treatments, and wellness, has published an article that discusses what you need to know about diabetes-related erectile dysfunction. Readers who want to check out the original article can do so at the link: https://ultrapharmrx.com/blog/sexual-health/diabetes-related-erectile-dysfunction-what-you-need-to-know/.

According to UltraPharmRx, over 7 of 10 men with reported cases of ED or impotence have diabetes as well. Diabetes can also increase the risk of developing ED. Men with diabetes may develop ED a decade to 15 years earlier because of this underlying condition. The article also discusses how diabetes affects erectile dysfunction.

The article begins by addressing the several known causes of erectile dysfunction related to diabetes.

  • Men with diabetes are at risk of developing diabetic neuropathy, a type of nerve damage that can affect the nerves responsible for heart rate and sex organs.
  • Increased glucose levels in the bloodstream can lead to microvascular disease-damaged small blood vessels. Men with uncontrolled diabetes tend to have worse cases of ED due to vascular damage.
  • Research shows that around a quarter of men with diabetes have low testosterone levels.
  • High blood sugar levels may cause damage to blood vessels and lead to heart disease. In this way, diabetes can affect the blood flow throughout the body.
  • Multiple medications used to treat diabetes complications and heart problems, in particular, medications that lower blood pressure may cause side effects that lead to ED.
  • Because of difficulties managing diabetes, many men may develop depression, anxiety, and ED.

 

The article from UltraPharmRX then explains the erectile dysfunction treatments when you have diabetes. Men with diabetes who also have heart problems or high blood pressure should be careful in taking ED medications as some may cause dangerous interactions with the medications they are currently taking. It is best to discuss with your doctor which of these treatments is best for you.

Top treatments are:

  1. Oral ED medications
  2. Psychological support
  3. Hormone therapy
  4. Vacuum pump therapy
  5. Penile injection therapy

 

The article then mentions lifestyle changes for men with diabetes and ED. It is vital to stress the importance of exercise, a well-balanced diet, and stress management in treating diabetes-related erectile dysfunction. Management of diabetes may reduce the risk of developing or worsening cases of ED. Lifestyle changes you may adopt that will help improve your condition include maintaining a healthy BMI through exercise and a healthy diet, amino acid supplementation such as L-arginine and L-citrulline may increase nitric oxide production in the body, stopping or reducing habits like alcohol use and smoking to prevent its side effects, and reducing tension and stress, be it work, personal, or relationship-related.

A spokesperson for UltraPharmRx talks about the steps that those dealing with ED can take by saying, “Our mission is built on Four pillars of trust. Integrity, Convenience, Affordability and Confidentiality – to provide high-quality healthcare services while maintaining the highest standards. We make it convenient for men who want to take control of their sexual health and well-being by helping them connect with US licensed physicians from the comfort of their own home, UltraPharmRx is here to support you through your journey. Contact us today for more information about our services for erectile dysfunction that we offer.”

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Books & Literature Leisure Activities Lifestyle Transportation & Logistics Travel

What Airline Passengers Don’t Know About What Happens Behind the Scenes with Air Traffic Control and Most Experts Won’t Reveal

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TheWashington, D.C. – Each day, an estimated 2,900,000 passengers fly in and out of U.S. airports and most have no idea what goes on behind-the-scenes. They don’t know what is involved to get them safely to their final destination or what decisions are made by air traffic controllers to safely navigate their flight. While most days are usually uneventful, situations occur that can be the difference between life and death, and that’s where people like Andy Watson come in.  

No ordinary pilot, Watson has been flying airplanes since he was eight years old, and has also worked as an Air Traffic Control (ATC) Specialist at many of the busiest facilities throughout the eastern United States for more than 14 years. In fact, he is one of only a select few pilots who has a multi-faceted understanding of aviation, which most pilots never realize. Watson’s experiences both as a pilot in the aircraft and professionally tracking planes on the air traffic control radar scope inspired him to write The Pilot’s Guide to Air Traffic Control, a collection of behind-the-scenes stories that places the reader right in the middle of real-life situations that bring the stress and urgency air traffic controllers deal with on a daily basis to bear.*  

Watson has written more than thirty chapters about his experiences as an air traffic controller with pilots in mind that includes an exclusive peek into an intense world which travelers rarely see, and dispels several myths about the aviation industry. 

#1 – How often does a passenger have to land a plane? Although this has been depicted in film more than once, this is actually an uncommon occurrence, but it does happen. Last month, an emergency took place when the pilot of a single-engine turboprop Cessna Caravan en route to Florida became incapacitated and the inexperienced passenger was doing his best to fly the plane. Luckily, an air traffic controller on duty, Robert Morgan, was also an experienced flight instructor. Once notified of the situation, he sprang into action. Despite himself never having flown this make and model of aircraft before, he was able to access a picture of the Cessna Caravan’s instrument panel to guide the impromptu student step-by-step on how to land the aircraft. “As I reviewed the incident,” Watson noted, “I thought it was absolutely brilliant that controller and flight instructor Robert Morgan printed a picture of the Cessna Caravan’s instrument panel so he could explain to the passenger over the radio exactly where to look in order to control the aircraft. I believe Robert saved the three lives on the aircraft that day!” Similarly, Watson’s book tells the story of another ATC save where the flight crew was suffering from hypoxia – a lack of oxygen – was rendered all but unconscious. A controller was able to get them to descend before they passed out. 

#2 – Why is Spatial Disorientation a Very Serious Inflight Emergency? Statistics show between 5 to 10% of all general aviation accidents are caused by spatial disorientation, 90% of which are fatal. Spatial disorientation was determined to be the probable cause of the crash that claimed the life of magazine editor & pilot John F. Kennedy, Jr. and more recently, basketball legend Kobe Bryant.  Watson remarks, “Spatial disorientation occurs when the body feels oriented in one direction, but in reality, it is oriented in a different direction. Literally, the pilot doesn’t know which way is up! It’s the same feeling kids get when they close their eyes, spin in circles, and then try to stand up straight, usually resulting in them falling down!”

Watson, who has worked in the FAA’s Air Traffic Safety Oversight office in Washington, D.C., has encountered several aviation accidents caused by this condition and says, “I realized I had received training on spatial disorientation as a pilot, but I did not remember any training on it as a controller.” 

#3 – What is a big mistake pilots make? Watson’s experience is that while commercial pilots are quick to declare an emergency when necessary, the pilots of smaller, general aviation aircraft are often more reluctant. It seems to Watson that most of them try to avoid declaring the emergency to the maximum extent possible. “I suspect because they are afraid of the FAA. I can tell you, if the thought of declaring an emergency even crosses your mind, then you probably should go ahead and declare it! I have heard pilots talk around the word ‘emergency’ specifically to avoid saying it. When an emergency is declared, air traffic gets extra help to assist you in whatever means they can. Phone calls for additional assistance are made, options are presented, and whatever else the pilot requests are made available. Don’t do it without good reason, but the FAA and ATC is truly there to help you effect a safe arrival.” 

Andy Watson will be on hand at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2022, the Largest Airshow in the World, for interviews and to personally sign copies of The Pilot’s Guide to Air Traffic Control. The book is also available on Amazon and at atcStories.com. While the title may say it’s for pilots, this book also provides a view from behind the flight deck door of how almost three million passengers travel safely each day in the skies over the United States. 

*The perspective and opinions given in the book are that of the author alone and may vary from those of the Federal Aviation Administration.

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Books & Literature Family & Parenting Health & Medicine Lifestyle Living

Can a Stressful Home Life Making to Illness? Don’t Ignore These Five Warning Signs of a Toxic Relationship

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Domestic abuse increased dramatically during the 2020 lockdowns. In fact, according to the National Commission on Covid-19 and Criminal Justice, domestic violence incidents rose in the United States by about 8.1% after pandemic-related lockdowns were imposed.

Phoenix based school teacher, Dr. L.R. Daniel, understands how the stress and impact of toxic relationships had severe consequences for students and their families during the lockdowns. Daniel discovered that teachers across the nation were hearing students’ shocking stories of their lockdown experiences that included economic hardship, physical and verbal abuse, stressed relationships, depression, and losing loved ones to death.

Dr. Daniel decided to do what she could to help herself, her colleagues, her students, and their parents because they were struggling on several levels. She and her peers realized that many of the victims didn’t have any idea what to do to change their situation. That is when she set out to write a book, Trash Can: Stop Being a Receptacle for Toxic People’s Waste, about how to identify the toxic relationships that hurt families and how to cope with them (especially if leaving them is not an option.)

“It’s difficult to recognize when a person is being toxic,” Dr. Daniel says. “A toxic person is never toxic on purpose. They may not have the intention to harm you. It is their internal turmoil that causes a change in their behavioral pattern. In extremely rare cases, a person behaves toxic on purpose but you are not equipped with the right tools to handle someone’s dark emotions.”

One of the first things to do in order to improve the situation is that a person must know how to recognize if they are dealing with someone who is toxic. Dr. L.R. Daniel recently shared says signs and behavioral patterns that help to identify a person with toxic traits in an interview with Sonoran Living. 

1. They are manipulative. Toxic people will go to any extent to achieve what they want. It’s all about their needs and wants. They will bend the truth, lie, and even exaggerate something completely irrelevant.

2. They like to play “the victim.” A toxic person will always think that they are being victimized. Even if it’s their actions that hurt them, they will shift the blame on someone else. They won’t take any accountability for their feelings. Rather, they find ways to project their feelings onto others.

3. They are inconsistent. A toxic person may say one thing but does something else. Their words and actions never match.

4. They look for drama and conflict. A toxic person can never handle peace and calmness for too long. They are uncomfortable feeling any happy or positive emotion or situation and actually thrive off pain, conflict, and drama. 

5. They are consistently negative. They are never grateful or content with what they have. They are extremely calculative in what they do and make sure that they get the maximum benefit from any situation. Even when they get the most, they complain about how they didn’t get everything they wanted.

Once the traits of a toxic person are identified, Daniel says that it’s important to not focus on the person that’s causing the problem, but take the energy being invested on the circumstance and redirect it toward self care. She suggests, “Own up to what you can work on and set small goals to create a life that will take you on a journey for wholeness.”

Research from 2020 identifies Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) for high school students and young adults as a significant health dilemma in the United States. A multifaceted approach is recommended to protect individuals from abusive relationships and Daniel’s book, Trash Can: Stop Being a Receptacle for Toxic People’s Waste provides steps to not only identify toxic behavior, but also ways to cope in the midst of these difficult situations.

Depending on what types of issues people are facing at home in their relationships, Daniel’s book may be able to help provide guidance and navigate solutions on how to work on the issues that are causing conflict. She says, “This book is extremely personal to me. I know what it’s like to be in this position and feel like there’s no hope for tomorrow. But if I can get out of something toxic, I’m sure you can, too.“

Dr. L.R. Daniel has taught middle and high school adolescents for over thirty years. According to Dr. Daniel, “Helping people free themselves from toxic situations and people is essential for me. It was how I managed to finally step into my own power and not waste my energy on people who never truly valued me.” Her book is available at TrashCanBook.com.

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Toxic Mistakes Dog Owners Make: Stop Feeding Dogs Table Scraps

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CINCINNATI – What pet mom or dad can resist giving their favorite pup a treat? Dog owners love sneaking food to their pets that are begging for table scraps and what may seem like a good idea at the time can, unfortunately, be deadly for dogs. Many people do not realize that dogs cannot eat certain human foods and innocent table scraps could land a precious pup at the vet with a very serious illness or worse.

Melinda Kirk Stenger has been cooking for dogs for over twenty years and she is on a mission to educate pet parents and says, “There are so many foods we eat at the dinner table that are toxic for dogs and you need to know which ones to avoid giving them. These include grapes, raisins, chocolate, and any food containing Xylitol like pre-packaged cookies and muffins or even gum.” 

Melinda, who is known as the Canine Caterer, was inspired to make homemade recipes for her dog, Bella, a Jack Russell mix who had allergies to many dog food ingredients like wheat, corn and soy. Her determination to keep Bella healthy began her journey to become an expert in dog health. Melinda’s passion led her to create PetCakes® that are do-it-yourself kits to easily make healthy treats for dogs. “People think it’s too complicated and time consuming to cook for their dog, so I invented PetCakes® mixes that have NO wheat, corn or soy to make it fast and fun to give your pets healthy, homemade snacks,” she shares. 

Each PetCakes® kit has everything needed to make homemade pet treats including a BPA free and re-usable bone-shaped pan for dogs (or a fish-shaped pan for cats). Just add water to the mix, pour the batter into the pan, and microwave it for less than three minutes. Melinda adds, “The birthday kits also come with a candle to add to the cake. When you cook for your animals, you bond in a fun way that creates lasting memories with them.”  

PetCakes® mixes also have no added salt, sugar or preservatives. Melinda warns, “Dogs specifically should never have added salt or sugar in their food because it contributes to health issues leading to a shorter life span.” 

Melinda Kirk Stenger has dedicated an entire page to a list of toxic foods in Paws & Brunch, a cookbook packed with a collection of delicious dog treat recipes inspired by human food like Woof Waffles, Canine Quiche, and even Barktown Biscuits. “Each recipe is designed with healthy, human-grade ingredients and are so easy, even kids can make them,” she says.

Melinda’s dog, Bella, is the official taste tester, mascot, and inspiration behind the recipes in her cookbook, “Bella was seriously injured in an accident and it required me to cook homemade food for her to help her recover. Cooking for her inspired me to go above and beyond and to make human looking food she’d love. When she got better, I expanded into planning extravagant birthday parties, high-end doggie brunches, and even dog weddings.”

PetCakes® are available online through Amazon or Chewy and you can follow and connect with Melinda on Instagram.  

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Can Cookies Really Change Lives? This Mom Turned Her Unique Cookies Into a 7-Figure Business.

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Not since Mrs. Fields turned her delicious cookie recipe into a multi-million dollar company has a mom turned her cookie baking skills into such a successful business. Do you want to know her secret? “It’s about the cookies, but not about the cookies at all — it’s about how it changes you into the woman you are meant to be,” says Lauren Anderson, founder of Lolly’s Home Kitchen that started in her home and has now grown into a seven figure business.

So how does a successful graphic designer with over 20 years of experience running various art departments and her own graphic design firm end up with basically a cookie business? Lauren discovered cookies during one of the most difficult years of her life, “I had a baby with a serious and life threatening medical condition called congenital heart defect (CHD) and my life changed in an instant. My son’s needs were so tremendous that I became his around-the-clock caretaker and as a result, I ended up having to leave my graphic design job. Eventually we found some stability, but something was missing. My mom was the one that noticed I needed something just for me, beyond being a mom and wife, and that’s when she introduced me to cookie decorating!”

Baking cookies is practically a rite of passage for moms, but most rarely venture beyond sugar and sprinkles. Lauren had always admired the decorated cookies with royal icing, sparkling sugar crystals, and even hand painted touches that she’d seen at special parties and on Pinterest, so she decided to play around with this as a hobby for herself.

She started baking cookies for school events and parties and people loved them so much that Lauren decided to open Lolly’s Home Kitchen. “My cookies brought so much joy and delight to my family and friends, and then I started marketing them on Instagram and taking orders – a lot of orders. What started as a hobby for a little ‘me-time’ turned into a thriving business,” Lauren shared. “But there’s more to it. Before I found fulfillment as a Cookier, I wasn’t thrilled with how motherhood felt. I loved my kids and we had a good life, but something was just missing. Then somewhere between the mixing bowls and the piping bags, I finally became the mother I’d always wanted to be. Who knew cookies could change my life?”

Beautifully decorated cookies, made by hand in the heart of a home, aren’t just cookies, they’re a family bonding experience that creates priceless memories. It wasn’t enough for Lauren to create cookies just for her business, she wanted to help other moms learn this special craft to share with their friends and families as well. She knew she was not alone and that there were other mothers who were looking to find themselves again. 

Since creating her very first cookie four years ago, she has taught herself all the do’s and don’ts of baking and decorating cookies through a lot of trial and error. “I’m obsessed with creating more joy in life and in the kitchen. That’s why I created Lolly’s Cookie Camp so every mom can learn to decorate sugar cookies like a pro. I make it about the result they get – not just cookies, but about changing your life with cookies and transforming women into the mom they want to be.” Then, Lolly’s Cookie Camp took off and Lauren started creating more courses as more and more moms joined, it grew into a seven figure business and it continues to thrive.

Lolly’s Cookie Camp has everything a beginner needs to know and was created to be easy, clearly laid out, and ready to learn with Lauren’s secret recipe for beautifully baked cookies right from the very first batch. She also includes her unique and simple cookie decorating design techniques inspired by her years of being a graphic designer.

Cookie Camp is available for just $47 because her goal is to inspire moms to jump in and choose to have more fun and joy in life—through cookies! You can connect with Lauren Anderson and learn more about creative cookie decorating on Instagram at @lollyshomekitchen.