The U-Lace Universe—When a Product Takes on a Life of its Own

How U-Lace went from transforming shoelace design to transforming how people live

It’s as if it has a life of its own.  A product designed for a specific purpose takes on an even more meaningful function once in the hands and imaginations of the consumer.  For U-Lace customizable shoelaces, what started as an avenue for self-expression and creativity turned into a meaningful everyday solution for those that had struggled with tying conventional laces.
Everyday people everywhere take for granted the ease of accomplishing simple tasks—tasks like putting on a pair of sneakers.  Imagine the frustration that those with injuries, disabilities or ailments experience while struggling to tie their laces.  For U-Lace Founder, Tim Talley he never dreamed his vision of self-expression and design through shoe laces would morph into something even bigger.
U-Lace, the innovative customizable alternative to conventional laces, was essentially designed for a sole purpose—customizing sneakers with amazing color and awesome designs.  However, since hitting the global market in nearly 50 countries, U-Lace has taken on a life of its own using appealing fashion to provide everyday function. Because U-Lace holds sneakers securely on the feet without the need to tie, they transform every pair into convenient slip-ons, eliminating the frustration and difficulty that can often accompany shoe lace tying for those with injuries, disabilities or ailments.  The popularity of the slip-on function was a surprise for Talley.
“U-Lace was invented first and foremost SOLELY as a lace for customizing sneakers,” Talley said. “I did not even really consider the lace-up-to-slip-on conversion as a key benefit until consumers started talking about it…Wounded Warriors have contacted us telling us how the product has changed their lives, enabling them to put their shoes on without help.”


It doesn’t stop there. Hundreds of parents of autistic children have contacted U-Lace to thank them for such a fun and creative product. U-Lace eliminates the struggle that many autistic children go through to tie shoes and the need for sometimes embarrassing Velcro closures.  In addition, U-Lace popularity has skyrocketed in the Netherlands where kids get demerits for untied shoes.  Because with U-Lace their shoes are transformed into slip-ons, many have made them an essential addition to their school uniforms.
Created by global trend-spotter, Tim Talley, U-Lace was born out of the pursuit of a product that could transform the world.  Inspired while in Harajuku, Tokyo—one of the coolest places on the planet—Talley brought U-Lace to life and it quickly caught on.  Exciting, creative, innovative and empowering, U-Lace has been named the #1 Hot New Trend product in Japan and distributed in almost 50 countries in some of the hottest shops around the globe.  Looking to become a leader in customizable products, U-Lace is rapidly changing the way people lace up and how they express themselves from head to toe.
For more information please visit http://www.u-lace.com/ or contact Kristen@chicblvd.com

Good Food and More: French Food Recipes by the Author of French Women ...

Good Food and More: French Food Recipes by the Author of French Women ...:

The best selling book "French Women Don't Get Fat" by Mireille Guiliano has many French food recipes in one location. Learn how to eat for pleasure.

Mireille Guiliano, author and CEO of Clicquot, Inc., has written many books about recasting the stomach and avoiding offenders in the diet. The books are full of French food recipes that are very delicious and nutritious. Guiliano tells of her own plight with food and how to eat with pleasure.


According to Guiliano, "French women choose their own indulgences and compensations. They understand that little things count, both additions and subtractions, and that as an adult everyone is the keeper of her own equilibrium." The recipes in this article appear with written by permission fromGuiliano's Website.

 

EAP, LLC: Inspiring Wellness, Leading by Example

Lawrence Executive Alliance Of Professionals (LEAP), CEO and President, Dr. Clayton G. Lawrence, leads the company with his personal commitment to health and wellness as an endurance athlete. - Lawrence Executive Alliance of Professionals (LEAP), LLC, has been a leading firm in the medical staffing industry since 2007. Led by health/fitness expert and veteran military physician, Dr. Clayton G. Lawrence, the award-winning firm has sought to raise the bar for healthcare excellence and has been actively involved in leading by example when it comes to health and wellness best practices. Since 2011, Dr. Lawrence has been an avid endurance athlete. As a marathon runner, he has participated in 50 marathons and run more than 6000 miles. After serving in the United States Army and becoming accustomed to the discipline and physical fitness required by the military, making the choice to become an endurance athlete was a decision that Lawrence says was inspiring and exciting. "Serving in the military creates a very strong sense of responsibility to one’s overall well-being and develops an even stronger purpose for finding ways to continue improving your mental and physical strength throughout the course of your life. Endurance sports have given me an avenue to continue this self-improvement in a way that is challenging, but also very meaningful,” Dr. Lawrence stated. Each of the marathons that Lawrence has participated in has been associated with a charitable cause. Most recently, Dr. Lawrence has run in a series of races honoring a specific branch of the military and a veteran-based nonprofit organization. This October, he completed the Army Ten-Miler in support of Hope for the Warriors and ran the Baltimore Marathon in support of the Catch A Lift Fund. On October 26th, he will run in the Marine Corps Marathon, which raises awareness and support for a number of charitable organizations such as the Semper Fi Fund, Wounded Warriors, and Team Fisher House. “By participating in endurance sports events, not only am I hoping to set an example of living a proactive and healthy lifestyle as a healthcare executive, but I am also working to ensure that LEAP, LLC, is engaged in meaningful action in D.C. and throughout the nation,” says Lawrence. “These events bring together powerful organizations that are fighting to provide access to health and wellness resources for those that need it most. We can all work together in our own ways to provide people with the greatest quality of life possible, and to be a small part of that is incredibly rewarding and powerful.” To learn more about Lawrence Executive Alliance of Professionals (LEAP), LLC, please visit www.leap4staffing.com.

Contact Information

Lawrence Executive Alliance of Professionals (LEAP) Dr. Clayton Lawrence (202) 349-4089 Contact www.leap4staffing.com

EPA Launches a Voluntary Star-Rating Program

EPA Launches a Voluntary Star-Rating Program to Reduce Pesticide Drift and Protect People,
Wildlife and the Environment

More stars equals greater potential for reducing spray drift

-The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing a new voluntary Drift Reduction Technology (DRT) program to encourage the use of verified, safer pesticide spray products to reduce exposure and pesticide movement while saving farmers money in pesticide loss.
“Every year state and local agencies receive thousands of complaints about the impacts of pesticide drift on people, wildlife and plants,” said Jim Jones, Assistant Administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention. “Our new star-rating system of products and technologies will help farmers reduce drift, protect neighbors and reduce costs by keeping more of the pesticide on the crop.  We hope the new voluntary DRT will encourage the manufacture, marketing and use of safer spray technology and equipment scientifically proven to reduce pesticide drift.”
One to ten percent of agricultural pesticide sprays drift or move from the intended target crop. Every year about 70 million pounds of pesticides valued up to $640 million are lost to pesticide drift.  And, state agencies use substantial resources each year investigating drift complaints. Farmers have long been concerned about reducing pesticide product loss during and after application to crops and minimizing drift to neighbors.

DRT is a voluntary program that encourages manufacturers to test their technologies (such as nozzles, spray shields and drift reduction chemicals) for drift reduction potential.  EPA encourages pesticide manufacturers to label their products for use with DRT technologies. The four DRT ratings represented by one, two, three or four stars are awarded for technologies that demonstrate at least 25 percent reduction in potential spray drift compared to the standard.

Spray technology manufacturers interested in participating in EPA’s DRT program may now submit data verifying their technology reduces pesticide movement.  EPA will evaluate each data submission and, if appropriate, assign a drift-reduction star rating to the product based on its ability to reduce spray drift. EPA will post these ratings at: http://www2.epa.gov/reducing-pesticide-drift
A pesticide manufacturer can choose to label a product for use with a DRT of a particular rating after receiving approval from EPA.

Over time, the program will move the agricultural sector toward the widespread use of low-drift technologies. Drift-reduction ratings could appear on pesticide labels as early as fall 2015.
Additional information on EPA’s DRT Program, including how to test technologies, is available at: http://www2.epa.gov/reducing-pesticide-drift .

R249

INDERMICA innovative age-management skin care system

Environmental exposure such as sunlight and pollutants tend to lead to age spots, fine lines, and loss of vitality to the skin.

 Indermica has created a proprietary age-management system designed to revive your skin and infuse it with the latest in hydroquinone-free brightening and lightening ingredients, layered with highly concentrated and powerful oxygenating compounds, plant stem cells, antioxidants, peptide’s and more.

This unique combination of layered performance ingredients will help restore your skin’s radiance for a healthy looking complexion.

http://www.indermica.com/

Host a Perfect Wine & Cheese Tasting Party with 5 Simple Tips from Isabelle von Boch

This Fall turn your attention away from outdoor barbecues to cozy evenings with friends and family. Discover simple and elegant entertaining ideas from Villeroy & Boch’s own in-house hospitality and entertaining expert Isabelle von Boch. 

NEW YORK: Fall is the perfect season for entertaining. The changing leaves and crisp air create the perfect setting for intimate get-togethers with friends. Hosting the perfect party doesn’t always have to mean a time consuming and elaborate event, says Isabelle von Boch.  Instead of a formal sit down dinner she recommends trying a wine and cheese tasting.  A good wine and cheese party is a great way to wow your guests without a lot of work. With just a few tabletop essentials and the right accompaniments you can easily create an unforgettable evening.

Keep It Simple and Natural 
When planning your fall soiree the most important thing to remember is to keep it simple - a relaxed hostess makes the evening more enjoyable for everyone.  Host a tasting that reflects your entertaining style and let the season inspire you.

Plan Your Menu
Start by choosing a few great red and white wines and 4-5 fabulous cheeses.  Try using a theme like “A Taste of Italy” or “A Tour of France” to make your selections even easier.  Complete your spread with a good crusty baguette form your local bakery, some antipasti, and seasonal crudités. This is a menu anyone can handle and it gives your guests choices that are satisfying.

Create and Ambiance
Planning a wine and cheese party is more than just picking great pairings.  Presentation is equally as important as what you put on the plate. Make your food pop with white serving pieces.  A clean and modern serving platter provides the perfect canvas for any dish, and can easily be layered with vibrant linens and colored glassware.
Choose a white rustic dinnerware collection like Artesano which was inspired by the “farm-to-table” lifestyle. Arrange your serving station with a large serving platter in the center, various matching dip bowls and individual Artesano porcelain plates for an authentic artisanal look.
Layer basic white porcelain pieces with amber, smoke and burgundy glassware from the Color Concept collection on your table. These vibrant colorful glasses will help you bring Fall colors inside, and encourage guests to cleanse the palette between tastings, and to stay hydrated.
Color Concept glasses and bowls come in different sizes, so they are perfect as votive holders and for arranging seasonal floral accents on your serving station.

Keep it Glassy
Having the right wine glassware is just as important as having the right wine.  Use quality crystal that will bring out the bouquets and aromas of the wines, and add casual elegance to your tasting and toasting.  Versatile crystal sets from the Purismo range from Villeroy & Boch come in multiple styles and are an affordable way to accommodate all types of wines and your glassware needs.  Designed in partnership with European sommeliers, Purismo crystal glasses are a sophisticated choice for everyday use and entertaining.

Knives are Everything
Each cheese needs its own knife.  A soft cheese will have very different needs from a harder cheese.  Choose a set that can accommodate all variations of cheese like the Kensington Fromage Cheese Knives. Paying attention to small details like this will really make your party stand out, and make your event effortless and stylish.

***

About Villeroy & Boch
Founded in 1748, Villeroy & Boch is one of the largest porcelain manufacturers in the world, and an international premium lifestyle brand.  Villeroy & Boch is an innovative company guided by the time-honored tradition of high-quality tabletop, home and bath products.  Represented in 125 countries, Villeroy & Boch is headquartered in Mettlach, Germany.
http://www.villeroy-boch.com/


About Isabelle von Boch
Isabelle is an eighth generation von Boch family member, and Villeroy & Boch premiere authority on hosting and decorating.  Today, during her international appearances as a Villeroy & Boch spokesperson she educates and inspires on everything there is to know about how to choose, enjoy and care for your dinnerware, fine china and crystal.  When she is not traveling the world inspiring others as a brand ambassador, she can be found sharing her love of entertaining with guests in her own home. She is an ardent ambassador of good taste, European hospitality and casual elegance.

Easy Ways to Preserve Herbs

Don't let your herbs go bad! Check out these simple ways to preserve them! -http://bit.ly/OGPreserveHerbs

Snickerdoodle Poke Cake is a simple & oh so delicious dessert!

Here's the recipe--> http://www.flourmewithlove.com/2013/07/snickerdoodle-poke-cake.html

Touchstone Lifestyles Event Saturday, October 11  1pm-3pm Touchstone Resort on Lake Muskoka  1869 Hwy. 118 West Bracebridge, Ontario Click for Directions    RSVP Today! Touchstone Sales Centre, Muskok SALES TEAM Director of Sales  Tony Schaschl tschaschl@sequelhotels.com 416-305-9493 Realtor Dante Larcade dlarcade@sequelhotels.com 416-580-8595

Discover Enchanting European Trips with Contiki that put “Wonder-lust” into the Continent’s Winter Wonderland

Millennials can celebrate New Year’s at the Hogmanay festival in Edinburgh or ski fresh powder runs at the best Austrian slopes ?

 – All Contiki trips are designed to give 18-35’s the most epic experience of their lives. With the winter months offering less crowds, fewer line-ups and lower costs, travellers have more time and money to discover Europe. Some of the most incredible festivals, holiday markets and outdoor fun take place when the temperature drops a few degrees and with 10% off until January 15, 2015, there’s never been a better time to enjoy the unexpected magic that Europe has to offer in the winter.
“Winter is a magical time to explore Europe, when travellers can visit iconic, bucket list destinations, with smaller groups, and get the added highlight of cultural winter festivals, holiday markets and incredible New Years celebrations.” says Brad Ford, Contiki Canada President. “Unique, epic adventures is what Contiki is all about, and by offering young, millennial travellers the chances to live out their own legendary travel experiences, we encourage them live life to the absolute fullest.”

With Winter & Ski trips, Contiki provides travellers with a completely unique, adventure-filled, epic way to see Europe. To get 18-35’s excited, Contiki’s ranked the top unforgettable experiences that will sizzle even in frosty winter temperatures:
Hit the slopes by day and après-ski by night, all from Contiki’s very own authentic Austrian gasthof (guest inn). Located in Hofgarten, Austria, part of the “SkiWelt” region offering 279km of runs, this winter epicentre has been voted 'World's Best Ski Area' out of 70 resorts in 8 countries for the last 3 years. Contiki travellers can fully embrace the fresh, winter air with private ski lessons and explore new trails each day. Get to Austria conveniently on the Contiki coach from London, or meet up with your group on the hill for one or two full weeks of fun.

See it all and have a (snow!) ball with the Winter Wanderer. For travellers with time on their side and a penchant for leisurely in-depth exploration, The Winter Wanderer features many of Europe’s must-see destinations. Journey along the French Riviera, exploring the Eternal City of Rome where it's never too cold for Gelato, sample traditional Spanish tapas in Barcelona, retrace the history of WW2 and the Cold War in Berlin and Prague. Winter in Europe is not only magical, it's less crowded and has its very own charms that go unnoticed in the heat of summer. The epitome of a winter wonderland. Do it all on Contiki’s 25-day Winter Wanderer.

Ring in 2016 at one of the world’s biggest New Year’s Eve celebrations in Edinburgh, Scotland. Kicking off the night in one of the historic city’s many iconic pubs before grabbing a mulled wine and joining the crowds on the cobbled streets to ring in the new year is a memory not soon to be forgotten. Do this on Contiki’s 4- or 5-day Hogmanay trip.

Ice-skate & savour tiny cakes at the Eiffel Tower?. Twinkling lights, the Parisian skyline as a backdrop, authentic chocolat chaud to keep you warm and there’s nothing more magical than skating on an ice rink at the Eiffel Tower. Located on the first floor observation deck, the rink’s sprawling views of Paris make for an unforgettable night at one of the world’s most iconic structures. Do this on Contiki’s 23-day European Trail trip.

Take in the merriment and magic of a German Christmas. ?Streets lit with twinkling lights, the smell of gingerbread and cinnamon baked goods wafting through the air and strolls through charming markets filled with hand-made goods are true Christmas delights. For travellers obsessed with all things Kris Kringle, there’s no better place to get in touch with your festive side than Germany, home to historic Christmas Markets. Grab a mug of mulled wine and browse the centuries-old markets, indulging in stollen and stopping to pick up that perfect present. Do this on Contiki’s 12-day European Discovery trip.
Shop the holiday sales in London?. London is a fashion mecca, famous for both its edgy street style and cache, premium brands. Young travellers can shop-‘til-they-drop, and with epic winter sales on pretty much everything, there’s no better time to score some sweet deals. For something to suit every budget, head to Selfridges – one of the world’s most iconic department stores — and scoop up anything from high street goods to designer duds to delicious locally-sourced food. Do this on Contiki’s 3- or 5-day London Explorer trip.

So whether it’s hitting the slopes for Ski & Snowboard Austria, ringing in the New Year on a Festival trip, or taking in the Christmas Markets and holiday sales in a cosmopolitan city, exploring Winter Europe with Contiki is the only way to go! For more information on Contiki’s Europe Winter trips and the advantages of travelling during the off-summer season, check out: contiki.com  

Life’s an adventure – make it count with #NOREGRETS.

--ENDS--

About Contiki Holidays
Contiki is the world leader in youth travel experiences, a brand that is all about discovery, epic moments and making every second count. Our journeys unlock the local way of life in each and every destination we visit, and with over 300 trips in more than 50 countries, we see every day as the start of a new adventure. For more information, please visit: http://www.contiki.com/meetcontiki

Created as a joint initiative between The Travel Corporation’s family of brands, the TreadRight Foundation is a not-for-profit working to ensure the environment and communities we visit remain vibrant for generations to come. To date, TreadRight has donated more than USD 2.5 million to sustainable tourism projects worldwide. The Foundation’s guiding principle is to encourage sustainable tourism development through conservation, leadership and support for communities. Foundation priorities are set by the Steering Committee, which includes sustainability leaders like Céline Cousteau and Costas Christ.

To learn more about our past and current work at TreadRight, please visit us at: http://treadright.org

Mane Man Paid Tribute by Jeanette Mayer

Mane Man Paid Tribute ~ by Jeanette Mayer
Normally composed Lorenzo Morra got a little verklempt as the Lorenzo Salon family paid tribute to its patriarch on Saturday (October 5) at the unveiling of his photograph.  Morra, accustomed to keeping his finger on the pulse admits, “I was blown away.”  He recently sold the successful business to longtime client and Lorne Park native Geoff Lumber who orchestrated the surprise. 

The location on Birchview Drive opened in 1969 and has enjoyed a loyal clientele and staff for over four decades.  New owner Lumber is all praise.  “Lorenzo has entrusted us with his life’s work so we wanted to pay homage to his legacy.  We would do well to uphold the family values with which he imbued the salon’s culture.”  Regulars agree that its positive energy is compelling and contagious.

While mastering his craft, Morra handpicked a team of stylists including novices, up-and-comers and veterans.  He generously passes on his skills and welcomes mentoring.  The warmth, humour and integrity with which he engages coworkers and clients alike foster allegiance and commitment.

Semi-retired Morra has enjoyed an illustrious career filled with highlights (pun intended).  He won his first award, the Ontario Regional Hairdressing Cup, at age 20.  The tribute photo was taken in 1989, on being named the Gus Caruso Award recipient for the most progressive business contribution to the hair industry.  Morra served as President of the Canadian Guild of Hair Design (1994-6) and was honoured with its Life Achievement Award.

As for passing the baton, Morra says, “Geoff can take the business to the next level … offering excellent service, staying at the cutting edge of hair fashion and remaining mindful of clients’ needs should guarantee success.”  Adds Lumber in his toast, “May Lorenzo Salon make the cut for decades to come … while staying true to its roots (no pun intended).”
© Jeanette Mayer, Wordsmith

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