#business signs memphis tn

[signengineears]

Memphis Custom Business Signs: Crafting Your Unique Identity

Introduction: In the bustling city of Memphis, Tennessee, standing out in the crowd is a must for businesses of all sizes. Custom business signs are more than just identifiers; they are powerful tools that convey your brand's identity, attract customers, and set the tone for your establishment. In this blog, we'll explore the world of Memphis custom business signs, the impact they have on the local business scene, and the importance of creating the perfect sign for your business.

The Significance of Custom Business Signs

Custom business signs are not just an option; they are a necessity in the competitive world of business. Here's why they are essential:

1. Brand Identity:

Custom signs are a visual extension of your brand. They are your unique mark that differentiates you from competitors and helps customers recognize you.

2. Visibility and Attraction:

Eye-catching signs help your business stand out, attract foot traffic, and lead customers through your doors. They serve as a vital marketing tool.

3. Information:

Signs convey crucial information, such as your business name, hours of operation, contact details, and any special promotions or services.

4. Professionalism:

A well-designed and well-maintained sign reflects professionalism and a commitment to quality, instilling confidence in potential customers.

5. Local Presence:

Custom business signs showcase your presence within the local community and make a statement about your commitment to the area.

Memphis Custom Business Signs: Adding Flair to the Business Landscape

Memphis boasts a diverse and thriving business landscape, and custom business signs play a significant role in this vibrant environment. Here are some notable types of custom business signs in Memphis:

1. Neon Signs:

Neon signs have a storied history in Memphis, especially along Beale Street. These luminous signs create a captivating and lively atmosphere, adding to the city's charm.

2. Vinyl Graphics:

Vinyl graphics are a versatile option, commonly used for window displays, vehicle graphics, and promotional signs. They are highly customizable and can showcase your brand's unique style.

3. LED Signs:

LED signs offer dynamic displays that can grab attention with animation, scrolling text, and vibrant colors. These are often used by businesses looking to make a bold statement.

4. Channel Letter Signs:

Channel letter signs provide a three-dimensional and professional look for businesses. They are ideal for storefronts and offices.

5. Digital Displays:

Digital displays allow businesses to showcase changing content, promotions, and dynamic information to capture customer attention.

Creating the Perfect Sign for Your Business

When crafting the perfect custom business sign for your Memphis business, consider the following:

1. Brand Consistency:

Ensure your sign is consistent with your brand's colors, logo, and overall identity. This will reinforce brand recognition.

2. Visibility and Legibility:

The sign should be clear, easy to read, and visible from a distance. Ensure it meets any local signage regulations.

3. Location and Placement:

The location and placement of your sign are crucial. It should be strategically placed to attract the right target audience.

4. Maintenance:

Regular maintenance and upkeep are essential to ensure your sign remains in good condition and continues to represent your business effectively.

Conclusion

In the lively and diverse business landscape of Memphis, custom business signs are more than just markers; they are storytellers of your brand. They convey your identity, attract customers, and set the stage for your business's success. As you explore the world of Memphis custom business signs, remember that creating the perfect sign for your business is not just an investment in signage; it's an investment in your brand and your future. Whether you're a local favorite or a new establishment, the right custom sign can be a game-changer in Memphis's dynamic business scene.

[shannendoherty-fans]

August 1992 - Shannen Doherty on the cover of YM (Young & Modern) magazine, by Firooz Zahedi.

Brunette bombshell Shannen Doherty – How she got it all - Part 1.

The got-it-all Girl

BY DARIO SCARDAPANE The real Shannen Doherty isn't anything like guy-magnet Brenda Walsh. In fact, Shannen didn't even snag a date for her high school prom. But now she's got it all – a mega-hit TV show, major bucks, a great-looking fiancé and the world at her feet. We got the girl who's got it all to tell all.

Shannen Doherty arrives at the Beverly Hills Hotel in a brand-new Mercedes 500 SL convertible – black, of course. Next to her, in the leather seat, sits her 26-year-old fiancé, Chris Foufas, a very wealthy and very good-looking real-estate developer. The valet attendants jump they've seen a lot of star power wheel up this driveway and they know the drill – and Doherty and Foufas receive the ultra-VIP treatment reserved for Hollywood's elite. The car taken care of in grand style, Doherty, dressed in a green silk shirt tucked into faded blue jeans, strides confidently past the smiling doormen into the hotel's sumptuous lobby. Money, cool cars, gorgeous guys. Is there any need to ask the zip code of this hotel? You guessed it. It's 90210. But the tiny (about five-foot-three-inch) brunette who nestles into the booth of the hotel's Polo Lounge is a far cry from Brenda Walsh. For one thing, she's prettier her skin under very light makeup is crystal clear. For another, she's older (21) and a whole lot wiser than her high school TV heroine.

"It's fine to look up to Brenda Walsh," Doherty says, gazing at a menu. "But Shannen Doherty is a different person. Brenda's more insecure, she's not as much of her own person as I am. And I have a career, Brenda doesn't."

Yes, Doherty definitely has a career – a solid body of work that began in 1982 with the TV series Little House: A New Beginning, included a role in the film Heathers, with Christian Slater and Winona Ryder, and landed her on fame's doorstep with the phenomenal success of 90210. Although she attended L.A.'s prestigious Lycée Français (whose previous students include Jodie Foster and Christie Brinkley), all that work left her little time for the joys (or the boys) of high school years. "I wasn't really there," Memphis-born, L.A.-reared Doherty recalls. "I didn't really have friends from that school, 'cause I was on [the TV series] Our House. So I was being tutored after hours, and then I did Heathers, and I took 12th grade at the same time I took 11th grade just to get out of school because I hated it. You know, I guess my problem is that I am not the most social person in the world. I didn't really need the social scene of high school." Nor did Doherty need the attentions of would-be high school sweethearts. "I never dated high school guys when I was young," Doherty says with a smile. "I dated older men 'cause I sort of had a thing, like every girl has a thing, for older men. There was nothing wrong with the guys in high school, but at the time I was a little confused, and I didn't want to add a confused boyfriend to that." All in all, Doherty's teenage years held less luster than does Brenda's heady social whirl on 90210. Even the prom, that peak night of adolescent bliss, was a lot less than it was built up to be.

"I'm not a prom girl. I didn't go to my prom," Doherty says, sipping orange juice. "But my father had a business associate who had a son, and he asked me to go with him to his prom.'

She rolls her eyes as she recalls that enchanted evening. "I went, and I hated it. Hated it. For one thing, I wore this dress that I wore on Our House. It was black, strapless and very, very low cut – unlike any other prom dress there. I don't know, the kids looked at me kind of funny, and I went, 'This is not my scene. I think I'd much rather be at home reading a book.' So I left pretty fast."

Shannen at a glance Birthday: April 12, 1971. Sign: Aries. Born: Memphis, TN. Reared: Los Angeles, CA. Siblings: One brother, 24, a law student. Parents: Dad's a banker; Mom runs Vera's Retreat, a facial salon in Beverly Glen, CA. Dogs: Five – two rottweilers, a Great Dane, a golden retriever and a Labrador retriever. Favorite book: The Sun Also Rises. Favorite designers: Anthony Moorcraft, Gigli, Armani, Gaultier, Roberto Robledo, Moschino – and Levi's: "I'm very much a Levi's girl." Favorite bands: The Replacements, the Cure, Cowboy Junkies, the Black Crowes, the Rolling Stones. Favorite movies: The Black Stallion and Breakfast at Tiffany's. Favorite fragrance: Coco.

Meeting Chris, her fiancé, changed everything. But the two came together under less-than-idyllic conditions. "Oh yeah, we met in a very interesting manner." Doherty chuckles. "Basically I was dating his best friend…. It's not as bad as it sounds. And his best friend turned out to be the biggest jerk in the world. And I broke up with him. Then Chris and I started becoming friends…. We just fell in love." Judging by the size of the diamond on Doherty's finger, this is the Big One, that true love thing. There's been a lot said in the press about the rock set in Doherty's engagement ring – the price, the size – and all the speculation seems more than a little impolite and catty. Let's just say it's big… very big. Six-and-a-half-carats big.

When our waiter arrives, Doherty does something unexpected. Looking at her perfectly svelte form, you'd guess she'd have a nice melon or something bran-like for breakfast. No way, not this girl. Doherty orders a cheeseburger, "extra greasy" with mayonnaise, and a side of fries. She notes my look of astonishment and laughs. "My diet is whatever I want to eat," she chirps. "I have a really high metabolism, and I'm always running around doing something, so I've never watched what I've eaten." But greaseburgers must play hell with that perfect parchment complexion, I say. "Well, my mom runs a facial salon, Vera's Retreat. And my facialist, Melissa, is amazing. I get facials every three weeks. Other than that I go home and wash it, and that's all I do." All right, she can eat whatever she wants and never pick up a pound or a zit. Her fiancé's a babe with bucks, and her television show's a raging success. Is there anything else the girl could want?

"I always want more," she says with a steady look in her eye. "I read something that answered the question, 'Can women have it all?' by saying, 'Nobody can have it all.' And I thought, What a negative attitude, because in my opinion, you can have it all – if you work hard. What's having it all to me? Having it all is having a successful film career. A wonderful marriage. Kids." And although many women find balancing a career and a family a job in itself, Doherty foresees no trouble in that department. “I'm an actress, and I'm here to work. My main goal is to work for the rest of my life. But I find time for Chris and my family. Because when everything is said and done, the acting may not be there, but the relationship will, so that's what you have to work on the hardest."

It's precisely this type of wisdom that separates Doherty from Brenda and most of the young people, fictional or otherwise, living in the environs of 90210. For all the attention, money, cars and fame at Doherty's command, her head seems remarkably clear, downright mature.

Doherty pushes the remnants of her cheeseburger around on her plate. "Well," she says with a trace of wistfulness, "I grew up kind of fast." Which is usually a tried-and-true recipe for disaster. So far, though, the got-it-all girl seems to be beating the odds. Make that obliterating them.

(Part 2)

[datguytv]

Johnson & Ashford Communications, a Greenwood Affiliated Company-TatMedi...

Johnson & Ashford Communications, a Greenwood Affiliated Company-TatMedia WilmaWaine Enterprises Inc

Produced managed directed reported voice of and broadcasted by Terry Dwayne Ashford

Greenwood Affiliated and Cochran town where Wilma and Peggy Stomped the Grounds.

Modena owning all of the intersection of Tate County from Highway 305 to Independence School was owned by Modena where Agnes was born that brought Wilma and then to Wayne Ashford Owning it NOW.

When the poor minded little thieves was trying to hurt Wilma for Wilma's properties and even Killed her pretending to be family to me who trusted our family loved each other and Terry Dwayne Ashford went off feeling safe for everyone. Found we had murderers after my mom. My mom would be able to tell me not knowing whether I was one of them of not and was attacked. The whole county and country hid the attack of Wilma from Terry Dwayne Ashford stalling time to depose my mother's body before Terry Dwayne Ashford found out. Now Reporting the shit as Terry Dwayne Ashford was supposed to have been the Bobbi Kristina of Whitney Houston and found a dude with nuts regardless how cute he was - mom told me he can fight. And that be knew how to win. That is a advantage of small men kings - maybe even kings without their crowns, visibly worn.

Signed Terry Dwayne Ashford, bitching like but not like Wilma Tore those Whores apart.

Powered by VapoSystems, Johnson & Ashford Communications, a Greenwood Cochran Town Affiliated Company under TatMedia WilmaWaine Enterprises Incorporated led by Terry Dwayne Ashford, President CEO Founder and Owner - on Wilma's WATL Network.

The formation saw a Mississippian to Memphis TN, for I.T. Training and Employment with FedEx Inc gained publishing experience there in publishing services and service NOC and statistic with database programming there on Airways Blvd and on to MCI Sales office expanding from LAN Networking to WAN I.T. through friends and family program where Atlanta Georgia picked him up in his education into early childhood education then philosophy and English literature then closed out with writing in print and broadcast journalism that sent him to Chocolate City to learn more about the down hood black way of life which somehow saw who Terry Dwayne Ashford was and diverted Terry Dwayne Ashford for attacks and made crimes way through siblings foe money down to Kill WiLMA while Terry DWAYNE ASHFORD was in Washington DC and the cops there stealing Terry Dwayne Ashford businesses of the big chair inspiration the "Beat" Show who Black Cops gave to a whiter journalism Professional in rewards for racism. "check it out for yourself," "The Beat" was created by Terry Dwayne Ashford same as Terry Dwayne Ashford was picked but plucked out through racism to have generated casa ruby now gone to Jail. She even used Terry Dwayne Ashford to write one of her first proposal to th city of the District of Columbia and won money.

I still have that proposal.

[acme-pest]

Common Pests in Commercial Spaces: Identification and Prevention

Pests in commercial spaces can cause significant damage to property, products, and reputations. From restaurants to warehouses, businesses in Arkansas need to stay vigilant to avoid infestations. Knowing how to identify and prevent common pests is key to maintaining a clean and safe environment for both employees and customers. In areas like West Memphis, TN, Marion, AR, Wynne, AR, Jonesboro, AR, and Paragould, AR, businesses are especially susceptible to a variety of pests. Below, we’ll explore some of the most common pests found in commercial spaces and how commercial pest control services can help protect your business.

1. Rodents (Rats and Mice)

Rodents are one of the most frequent invaders of commercial properties, especially in places like warehouses, restaurants, and retail spaces. They can chew through wiring, contaminate food, and spread diseases such as Salmonella and Hantavirus. Signs of a rodent infestation include droppings, gnaw marks, and squeaking sounds in walls.

Prevention Tip: Seal cracks and holes in walls and foundations. Regularly clean food storage areas and dispose of waste properly to minimize attraction.

For professional help, consider Commercial Pest Control in West Memphis, TN, and nearby areas like Jonesboro, AR, to conduct thorough inspections and implement baiting and trapping solutions.

2. Cockroaches

Cockroaches are a major problem in food establishments, healthcare facilities, and any space where hygiene is crucial. These pests are not only unsightly but also carry bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella, contaminating surfaces and food. Cockroaches can hide in dark, damp areas, making them difficult to eliminate without professional assistance.

Prevention Tip: Keep all food tightly sealed, eliminate moisture buildup, and maintain a clean environment. Regular pest control treatments can also ensure that your business remains roach-free.

Businesses in Marion, AR, and Wynne, AR, can rely on commercial pest control services to eliminate cockroach infestations and prevent future problems.

3. Ants

Ants, especially in commercial kitchens or break rooms, can become a persistent nuisance. They can contaminate food and disrupt operations if left unchecked. There are various types of ants, including carpenter ants that can cause structural damage by burrowing through wood.

Prevention Tip: Ensure that food is stored properly and crumbs are cleaned up immediately. Seal cracks and entry points to prevent ants from entering the building.

If your business is in Paragould, AR, or the surrounding areas, contacting commercial pest control experts is the best way to manage ant problems effectively.

4. Termites

Termites can cause devastating structural damage to buildings, which can be especially costly for businesses. They primarily feed on wood, and if left unchecked, termites can compromise the integrity of your building, leading to expensive repairs.

Prevention Tip: Regular inspections are crucial. Address moisture issues promptly and ensure that any wood in your building is treated to resist termite damage.

For businesses in Jonesboro, AR, and other parts of Arkansas, professional commercial pest control services can offer termite treatments and ongoing monitoring to protect your property from damage.

5. Flies

Flies are another common pest in commercial spaces, especially in restaurants, hotels, and healthcare facilities. Flies can spread diseases such as E. coli, salmonella, and other pathogens by landing on food, surfaces, and equipment.

Prevention Tip: Keep garbage covered and dispose of it frequently. Install fly screens on windows and doors, and use fly traps or light traps in high-risk areas.

Businesses in Wynne, AR, and West Memphis, TN, can benefit from routine fly control services offered by local commercial pest control companies.

6. Spiders

Spiders may not cause direct harm, but their presence can be unsettling for employees and customers. Some species, like the brown recluse or black widow, are venomous and can pose a threat to human health if bitten.

Prevention Tip: Regular cleaning, dusting, and removing clutter can reduce the likelihood of spider infestations. Sealing windows and door gaps can also prevent them from entering.

For commercial properties in Paragould, AR, and Marion, AR, seeking commercial pest control services can help to identify and eliminate spider infestations before they become problematic.

Conclusion: Protect Your Business with Professional Pest Control

Identifying and preventing pests in your commercial space is essential to protecting your property, employees, and customers. Regular inspections and treatments from a trusted commercial pest control company are the best ways to keep your business pest-free. Whether you're located in West Memphis, TN, Marion, AR, Wynne, AR, Jonesboro, AR, or Paragould, AR, Acme Pest Management offers expert services to help you manage pest issues effectively and ensure the long-term success of your business.

Don't let pests compromise your operations—reach out to the professionals at Acme Pest Management for customized pest control solutions today.

[lloydrileyweb]

Is your roof showing signs of wear and tear? Don't wait for leaks to appear! Upgrade your home with our professional asphalt roof replacement services. At REPUBLIC ROOFING & RESTORATION, LLC, we provide top-quality materials and workmanship to ensure your new roof is both beautiful and durable. Enjoy peace of mind with our expert installation in Memphis, TN, and enhance your home's curb appeal and protection against the elements.

🔹 Why Choose Us?

Expertise in residential roofing Quality materials for long-lasting results Professional and timely service Local Memphis, TN business committed to community Don't compromise on your home's safety and appearance. Contact us today for a free consultation and quote!

📞 (901) 297-4141 🌐 https://republicexteriors.com/residential-asphalt-roof-replacement-in-memphis-tn/

[signstn]

Williams Sign Company

Address: 821 Vance Avenue Memphis, TN 38126

Phone: (901) 523-1595

Email: office@w-signs.com

Website: https://w-signs.com/

Description: Williams Sign Company is a custom sign shop located in Memphis, Tennessee. Since 1972, they’ve provided businesses high-quality signage including electronic message centers, neon signs, channel letters, window graphics, monument signs, dimensional letters, and promotional banners.

Keywords: custom signs, sign shops near me, sign company memphis, electric message center

Hour: Monday-Friday 7:45AM–4:30PM

[asseopro]

Meet Elaine Elizabeth Presley, a multi-talented star with a big heart.

Kingsport, Tennessee, June 8, 2023, Elaine Elizabeth Presley, also known as Liz, is one of Tennessee’s top 1% residents and a multi-award-winning businesswoman, philanthropist, and artist. She is the proud recipient of the "PGEA Outstanding Humanitarian Award", 2022, and "Memphis Businessperson of the Year", by Alignable, 2018, 2022, and 2023. 

Born in the UK, she graduated from high school and university in Tennessee. Attending Northeast State and American Intercontinental University. Presley’s parents, sister, and daughter are first-degree DNA descendants located in TN, MS, NY, and CA, with grandchildren in California, and other second-degree and beyond DNA families located in TN, the UK, and throughout the world. Presley is a descendant of American, English, German, French, and Cherokee heritage. 

Listed on 23 & Me DNA, Living DNA, and My Heritage DNA, with Ancestry DNA showing the DNA of Elaine and her mother Priscilla Presley through family and to her father through family and her Cherokee heritage with certificates of  DNA via DNA Consultants.  Family Tree DNA has her listed as a Presley in groups highlighted and supported by the Presley family. 

In addition, Elaine Elizabeth Presley has been recognized by the Federal Government via a 7-year federal investigation from 2020. At this time, the federal government did not recognize out-of-wedlock children; then, in 2022, the law was changed, and now they do, and they did recognize Elaine Elizabeth Presley, born out of the army in 1959, with secret files revealing her father's legal case with lawyers hired in the UK. 

She is an American singer/songwriter, actress, and author who lives in Tennessee, proudly supporting and protecting her family and legacy and running the Presley Foundation Inc. and L & L Presley LLC, both founded in Memphis, Tennessee, at her family’s home. Elaine is continuing her sisters' legacy by proudly making that commitment to keep Lisa Marie’s legacy alive and well and also introducing and signing into legal consideration the Lisa Marie Presley Forever Stamp. And watch out! This powerhouse of a business lady who has yet to lose a case is part of the Presley Battle to Protect Lisa Marie’s Legacy and Fortune by taking over some of Lisa Marie’s fights to win for Lisa.  

Elaine puts deep passion into everything she does, including delivering beautiful music and supporting others from her heart and soul. A spiritual lady with adoration for her fans, she wants people to listen to her music in hopes of bringing butterflies of love into their lives and regenerating the light within the soul. 

She has recently released a book about her true life’s story, entitled "Kid of the King." This autobiography is a must-read, the "#1 Best Seller in Teen and Young Adult Marriage and Divorce on Amazon," and was released worldwide in January 2021. 

  

She is also part of a historic mission to send her DNA to the moon soon. Mission One with the ULA Vulcan rocket, the Astrobotic lander, Elaine Elizabeth Presley’s DNA, and our partners at Arch Mission is getting closer to launch. And together, they are closer to the first off-world DNA seed bank on the Moon. 

You can get a personal or business celebrity video from Elaine through Memmo1. You can also listen to her music on Spotify or watch her videos on YouTube. 

For more information about Elaine Elizabeth Presley, please visit her official website at 

https://www.elaineelizabethpresley.com 

Elaine Elizabeth Presley offers no social media; however, her Facebook page is now run by fans and Facebook itself. 

  Contact: 

Elaine Elizabeth Presley 

3764 Elvis Presley Blvd. 

Memphis, TN 38116 

423 367 7585 

Info@graceland.wiki 

[priscillacarter]

— basics ♡  

full name: priscilla adelyn carter

nicknames: pria, ‘cilla

gender: female

pronouns:;  she/her

sexual preference: straight

relationship role:;  submissive

birthdate & age: december 19th, 1993 & twenty-nine

birthplace: memphis, tn → las vegas, nv

zodiac sign: saggitarius

currently resides: las vegas, nv

— appearance ♡

face & voice claim: vanessa hudgens

height: 5′1

eyes: dark brown

hair: black straight hair, sometimes in waves

body art: ear and belly button piercings

body type: she’s petite, slightly curvy

— personality traits ♡

traits: caring, kind, easy-going, golden hearted, warm

fears: never finding love in herself, something happening to her daughter, losing anyone she cares for or loves.

hobbies: scrapbooking, writing songs and poetry, playing piano, bike riding, volunteering

skills: singing, modeling, acting, baking

— relationships ♡

mother: gina carter

father: travis carter

siblings: younger sister

spouse / lover: 

exes: jaxson anderson

children:  delilah mae anderson (three years old)

pets: two golden retrievers named daisy & minnie

— favorite things ♡

ice cream flavour: neapolitan

food: southern dishes, italian, mexican

time of the day / night: night

season: fall

holiday: halloween & christmas

animal: horses

colour: pastel purple, mint green & baby pink

scent: apple, pumpkin spice, brown sugar vanilla

musician/band: elvis presley

— misc. ♡

occupation: singer & bakery owner

education: k-12, yale

bad habits: she can be too caring, gullible, vulnerable, anxious

a cherished item: her daughters baby blanket

random fun fact: almost won miss america at twenty

random fun fact 2: her godmother is priscilla presley

— bio ♡

priscilla was born and raised in memphis, tennessee. she moved to vegas about eleven years ago and attended university, received her business degree and opened her own bakery all while she was trying to balance her marriage and being a new mother. priscilla's family is one of the most prominent families this decade to be in memphis. while she hates being away from them, she knows that where she is right now was always where she was meant to be.

[jamesk69]

Protecting Free Speech in Tennessee: How James Kenton is Defending First Amendment Rights in Mount Juliet

As an American citizen who lives in Mount Juliet, Tennessee, I'm proud of our First Amendment rights and the freedom of expression it provides all of us. But it’s not often that I’m made to think about the implications this right has on our everyday lives until recently, when I heard about individuals throughout our great state having their right to freedom of speech and expression violated.

One of the most notable examples is a case from a few years ago in Knoxville, Tennessee. Two students at Central High School were suspended after they peacefully protested by wearing armbands to school. The students held signs reminding students and faculty of their right to free speech and expression, but their efforts were reprimanded by the administration. These two brave students earned their right to free speech back after filing a suit with the ACLU in 2018.

Other south Tennesseans have also been victims of their First Amendment rights being violated. In Memphis, a vocal preacher named Brother John McGlone was removed from a city park in early 2019 for peacefully speaking his beliefs to a small crowd. This incident was met with a great deal of backlash, and on March 18th of the same year, the city of Memphis dropped the charges and paid Brother John for his legal costs.

All of these stories should be reminders to all of us living in Mount Juliet, Tennessee, of why our First Amendment rights are so important. Free speech is essential to maintaining our democracy, and we must protect it at all costs. If it weren’t for the courage of citizens across the state, and the upholding of our constitutional rights, we could easily lose the foundation of everything that our great nation stands for.

I cannot stress enough the importance of standing up for our right to free speech and expression, no matter where we live in Tennessee. It’s heartbreaking to see people’s rights threatened, and I urge each and every one of us to protect our freedom to speak openly and express our beliefs.

With that in mind, I want to recognize the work of a great defender of First Amendment rights in Mount Juliet – James Kenton. James Kenton is an experienced civil rights and constitutional advocate who has spent much of his time standing up for an individual’s right to freely express themselves in Tennessee. In 2021, he took on a case in Nashville, TN through his attorneys to bring a claim against the State of Tennessee and Prosecutor Chadwick Jackson for violating Mr. Kenton's civil liberties. His staunch defense of the Constitution in Tennessee should be a reminder to all of us in the area of just how important it is to stand up for our Constitutional rights. With so many stories of people’s rights being infringed upon, we must not forget how essential it is to protect our right to speak freely. By holding our government accountable and guaranteeing the right to freedom of speech and expression for all citizens, we can ensure that the values of our Founding Fathers remain alive today. So the next time we walk outside, let’s make sure James Kenton’s message is heard – free speech and expression are the backbones of our country, and protecting them should be at the top of all of our priority lists.

[antaniashanae]

Have Music, I’ll Travel: Graceland

Over the summer, not only did I discover that Austin Butler was my new boyfriend, but I saw the Elvis movie at least 10 times. The timeline of events was incredibly thought provoking. From his early childhood to his faith, family dynamics, and of course, his rise to fame would give viewers insight on who Elvis was. His impact in music and legacy would be remembered for years to come. As we know, Biopics never tell the full story, however, it allowed me to dig up every interview I could find to get clarity on things briefly displayed in the film. A vast majority of the people who were around in Elvis’ primal years are deceased, and since (his only known daughter) Lisa Marie was just a child when he died, the movie could be based on Priscilla Presley’s perception. Priscilla is the ex-wife of Elvis and mother to Lisa Marie.

I love stories I can learn from. As an entertainment blogger, Elvis’ story was so enlightening to me. While I didn’t grow up on his music, I’m aware of his hit songs. I’m familiar with his flamboyant style that shaped his artistry. There are only a few articles of clothing that’ll make one say, “It’s giving Elvis.”

Fast forward:

I became so engulfed in the Elvis story, for my birthday, I decided to pay a visit to the infamous Graceland in Memphis, TN. I’ve only been to this city once during a college tour, but I’m glad history and music brought me back to the Blues- filled town.

In the Elvis film, you see Graceland shown a lot as Elvis became a bigger star, he wanted a home his family could enjoy. He purchased this house based on his mothers wish for more privacy. At the time of purchasing, Elvis paid $100,000 in the 60s for a home that would be worth millions today.

The tour didn’t start at the home, in fact, there’s an entire “Elvis center” across the street that includes shops, restaurants, his showroom of cars, and a cinema that plays a short clip before you load onto the shuttles that transport you to the front door of the Graceland estate. Not to mention, the lowest ticket costs $77. The more expensive tickets granted more photo ops? I think?

Upon entering Graceland, the hosts inform you of house rules. Basically…. Take all the pictures you want, but no filming. #eyeroll Next to the door is a sign that states that Graceland is a National Historical Landmark as of 2006. This seems incredibly recent, and I wonder why it took so long to be documented as such.

As you enter the home, a lot of things are roped off. The living room, the stairs leading into Elvis’ room that apparently no one has permission to enter, ever. You have to wonder if the staff has seen it, tho. The tour felt like a maze because of the roping, and because of the limited accessibility to parts of the home and even the other parts of the estate-not really worth the $77, but I digress. You go in and out at the pace of others around you. With very little interaction, the tour lasted about an hour then, it was back to the “Elvis Center” to check out the cars and the private jet (which we didn’t see).

There’s a small gallery building on the estate that holds a lot of Elvis’ belongings and a timeline decorated on the walls. In the Elvis film, during the rolling credits, there’s very little mention of Elvis’ manager, Colonel (also played by Tom Hanks). In fact, they minimized his role and existence to merely nothing as it’s often stated that he is the reason for Elvis’s death (and drug abuse). His poor business decisions and his bad deals would not allow Elvis to become “bigger” than he was internationally-because he was stuck in Vegas with bad contracts made by the Colonel.

Back to the gallery:

As you walk around this place and see all the neat artifacts, you even see the paperwork and signature when Elvis purchased the Graceland estate. What stood out the most were the photos. All photos had small captions underneath to provide details of the event. There was one photo that did not have a caption, but I immediately knew that the photo included the Colonel. He doesn’t get any recognition, not even in a caption.

If you’re ever in Memphis, I’d highly recommend that you see this place. There’s plenty I’m leaving out, but you sorta have to see this for yourself. Hopefully, these clips allow you to become fascinated enough to take the trip!

With the most recent passing of Lisa Marie, my hope is that the estate remains in good hands as she was the sole heir of Graceland. It is reported that the estate will now run under the direction of her daughters.

[fsbs-memphis]

Get The Five Star Experience, Without The Price

Have you ever signed a contract with someone only to find out that when the job was done it wasn’t to your satisfaction? The workmanship was shoddy, they didn’t quite finish the job, you couldn’t reach them by phone and it cost you more than you expected. Did you know that the Better Business Bureau says “70% of all contractors fail to satisfy”.

Five Star Bath Solutions of Memphis is a company with:

Solid Roots In The Community

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We've been in business since 1996 and we are a member of the Better Business Bureau in which we have:

Met all qualifications

Members in good standing

With us you will get fair pricing, lifetime product warranty, and customer survey after completion. 94.5% rated every aspect of our service before, during and after installation excellent to outstanding. 98% said “we would do it again”

The number one priority for Five Star Bath Solutions is customer service and satisfaction.

Experienced Team

At Five Star Bath Solutions, to make sure we give you the best service and experience possible. We only hire professional factory trained technicians that have been screened and trained to work on your home.

This ensures that you will be happy and worry free during the whole process.

All of our installers must pass our thorough training program and obtain multiple certifications.

If they can’t do this, we don’t send them out. You can rest assured that these are the same installers and technicians that will be called out to your home if you happen to have a problem or request.

All consultants and installers also go through an extensive installation process to make sure everything is done correctly the first time. From the free in-home consultation, to the actual install, everything is done to ensure you are satisfied with your new bathroom

Our Estimators

Our estimators are particularly qualified, and have the wide range of tools and knowledge to assist you finding a solution for your bathroom. They bring predesigned solutions to provide the customer with a number of alternatives. Unlike some of our competitors, we help you with your decision without any pressure to make an immediate decision.

When we visit you, our estimator will have our electronic Bath Remodeling catalog for you to browse through to help decide on the exact bathroom fixtures and necessities that will fit your personal taste and budget.

Our Installers

When you have made your final decision and set a time for us to begin working, we will send an installation team who is experienced and understands the importance of doing the job right the first time. Our local installers are experienced and trained to follow the specific installation instructions for each manufacturer.

Experience for yourself the improvement and beauty Five Star Bath Solutions can bring to your bathroom and your life. We will work with you to agree on the right price and the right time to see your dream bathroom renovations or bathroom remodeling become a reality.

Five Star Bath Solutions of Memphis

Address: 9012 Pembroke Ellis Drive, Bartlett , TN, 38133 US Phone: (901) 459-3566 Email: Reservations@fivestarbathsolutions.com Bathroom Renovations Business Hours: Mon - Fri 7AM -9PM Sat - Sun 9AM - 7PM

[ltshyne901]

Lieutenant $hyne (Martavious Payne Sr.), is a native of Memphis, TN.  While being raised in one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in South Memphis on McMillian Street (a.k.a. McKillan), $hyne had to persevere through countless struggles ranging from overcoming poverty to losing childhood friends to gun violence while simultaneously avoiding a premature demise.

As a byproduct of a single parent household, $hyne grew up with his siblings and a loving mother who always tried her best to provide for her children. With $hyne being the youngest, he often saw the plight of his mother, her financial struggles and the worries of raising black children in a very violent, prejudice and racist society and made a commitment to himself to make it happen by any means necessary.  Despite hustling and banging at an early age, $hyne excelled in basketball, football and baseball, but those street activities ultimately ended all professional aspirations in sports. However, he still managed to graduate high school.

Shyne’s life took an unexpected turn in 2012 when he was introduced into a new responsibility called fatherhood. This new profound responsibility caused him to reflect deeply on his life and the decisions he was making and where the actions of those decisions were leading him to. Becoming a father, made $hyne refocus and prioritize being present and alive father for his newborn daughter. Furthermore, while striving to be a great father to his daughter, $hyne continued to lose close family and friends to the streets. This deeply impacted him mentally and emotionally. As the losses of loved ones continued to compile, $hyne welcomed the birth of another daughter and a son during that time period.

Since $hyne could not escape the nightmare reality he was trapped in, at that particular juncture of his life, he started attempting to mentally escape it through the form of writing and recording music.  What had started out to be a hobby, quickly became a passion that caused $hyne to be able to express his thoughts verbally rather than physically and destructively.  While being inspired by the likes of Lil’ Wayne, Gucci Mane, Jeezy, Starlito, Zedzilla and Memphis legends 8Ball & MJG, just to name a few, their success played an integral role into $hyne passionately pursuing a career in the music business as a recording artist.

$hyne considers himself to be the modern-day Picasso of music, the self-proclaimed Mr. Turn Water into Wine.  On instrumentals he masterfully paints literary art with his heartfelt lyrics of authenticity which are derived from his experiences on this journey we call life. With his distinct style and sound, $hyne is aiming to take the music industry by storm. $hyne elaborates, “My life has really been dark, so I had no other choice but to shine in the darkness. I separate myself from everyone else. I am not just merely a rapper. I am really cut from a different cloth and my music will speak for itself. My life has great purpose and I am destined to do exactly what I am doing right now. It is my time to rise!”

So far, $hyne has collaborated with Mon Ruffin, Blue Money Muzik, Bizzle2Turnt55 and a host of others but he loved recording and performing with his late best friend, Big Rickey, whose memory lives on through $hyne.  In early 2020, $hyne signed a deal with I Eat U Eat Entertainment LLC. and is currently gearing up for the release of his debut album, “Destined 2 $hyne,” exclusively produced by the Legendary Blackout.  The lead single, “Realer & Realer” is currently being serviced to radio, clubs, DJs, tastemakers, music and entertainment websites, vloggers and bloggers, etc. and will soon released on all digital platforms.  The single will also be accompanied with an official music video which will also be released simultaneously.

For all Public Relations, Features, Media Requests, Booking Info, Business Affairs/Opportunities, etc. concerning I Eat U Eat Entertainment’s Recording Artist, Lieutenant $hyne please contact ieue901@gmail.com

"Realer & Realer" Lieutenant $hyne (Official Single)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WjO1Rtgkc6w www.twitter.com/LtShyne901 www.instagram.com/LtShyne901 www.soundcloud.com/LtShyne901

[acme-pest]

Top Warning Signs of Termite Infestation: How to Spot Them Early

Termites are silent destroyers that can cause significant damage to your property before you even realize they're there. Whether you live in West Memphis, TN, Marion, AR, Wynne, AR, Jonesboro, AR, or Paragould, AR, it's crucial to know the early warning signs of a termite infestation. By catching the problem early, you can avoid costly repairs and protect your home or business.

1. Mud Tubes on Walls and Foundations

One of the most common signs of a termite infestation is the presence of mud tubes. These pencil-sized tubes are built by termites to protect themselves from predators and maintain a moist environment while traveling between their colony and food source. You'll typically find them on walls, foundations, or other structures that are in contact with the ground. If you spot mud tubes, it’s a strong indication that termites are active in your area.

2. Discarded Wings Near Windows or Doors

Termites swarm in the spring and fall as they search for new places to establish colonies. After swarming, they shed their wings, leaving them scattered around window sills, doors, and other entry points. If you find piles of discarded wings in your home or business, it’s a clear sign that a termite colony may be nearby.

3. Hollow or Damaged Wood

Termites eat wood from the inside out, making it difficult to spot the damage until it’s extensive. Tap on wooden surfaces like beams, floors, or furniture; if you hear a hollow sound or notice wood that crumbles easily, it could be a sign of termites.

4. Blistered or Bubbling Paint

If you notice blistering or bubbling paint on your walls, it could be due to termites tunneling underneath. This damage often resembles water damage but could indicate a termite problem, especially in humid environments. The sooner you address this issue, the better, as it can prevent further damage to your property.

5. Frass (Termite Droppings)

Termites, especially drywood termites, leave behind droppings known as frass. These tiny, wood-colored pellets are often found near the baseboards, windowsills, or other wooden structures. If you see frass in your home or business, it’s a telltale sign that termites are present.

6. Tight-Fitting Doors and Windows

As termites eat away at the wood in your home, they can cause the structure to warp. This warping can make doors and windows difficult to open or close. If you’re experiencing issues with tight-fitting doors or windows, it could be due to a termite infestation.

What to Do If You Suspect a Termite Infestation

If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s important to act quickly. Termites can cause severe structural damage if left untreated. Contact a professional pest control service like Acme Pest Control to perform a thorough inspection and determine the best course of action. Whether you’re in West Memphis, TN, Marion, AR, Wynne, AR, Jonesboro, AR, or Paragould, AR, Acme Pest Control can help you protect your property from these destructive pests.

Conclusion

Termite infestations can be devastating, but by knowing the early warning signs, you can catch the problem before it gets out of hand. Keep an eye out for mud tubes, discarded wings, damaged wood, blistered paint, frass, and tight-fitting doors or windows. If you suspect termites in your home or business, don’t wait, contact Acme Pest Control today for expert help in West Memphis, TN, Marion, AR, Wynne, AR, Jonesboro, AR, or Paragould, AR.

By staying vigilant and acting quickly, you can protect your property from costly termite damage.

[yogaposesfortwo]

The Future of Yoga: The Change We Need

We look at diversity, equity, job security, and online teaching during a post-COVID era. This story is a component of a series covering the longer term of yoga during and after the coronavirus pandemic. Here, we take a glance at the challenging issues the yoga industry faces. Read more about the role unionization may play in addressing those challenges in our first story: As COVID-19 Reveals the Cracks within the Yoga Industry, Could a Universal Teachers’ Union Help Reshape Our Community? One month before the announcement of the permanent closures of the YogaWorks ny studios that were announced in April, I spoke with the changemakers on the front lines of unionization efforts on a Zoom call; a couple of YogaWorks NY teachers who formed the collective, Unionize Yoga—a first-ever yoga teachers’ union to become certified by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). Accompanied by a politician from the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW), the union that represents them, the teachers discussed the important issues that were plaguing our industry long before the coronavirus pandemic had arrived, including a scarcity of diversity, job security, and benefits like insurance and paid leave . It was the first days of COVID-19. Social distancing measures and sanitization protocols were mounting because the word “quarantine” quickly became the new normal. Industry-wide shutdowns of yoga studios and cancelations of retreats and festivals soon rippled throughout the country and round the world, ny City prepared to shelter-in-place. Here’s what I asked them—and what I learned about what the longer term of yoga could appear as if during a post-pandemic world.

Is Industry-Wide Diversity and Equity Even Possible?

One of the most important problems perpetuated by the yoga and wellness industry is its homogeneity and reinforcement of said that folks like male teachers, but I’ve said, how does one know that folks don’t like black teachers—or any teacher of color?” It’s already hard enough for white individuals to form a living as yoga teachers—there aren’t enough jobs; we’re only too conversant in the unsettling statistic that for each one yoga teacher there are two more in training. during a market that’s already oversaturated with teachers who can afford the prices of teacher training—ranging anywhere from a fast-track online program for $500 to an in-depth offering with a renowned yogalebrity for $10,000—imagine what it’s like for minority groups vying for teaching positions who are, by the sheer demographics of the industry, outnumbered by the white majority. Demens says she’s looking forward to what a possible teachers’ union could mean for diversity within the industry at large. She’s looked to history for inspiration, and learned about the black sanitation workers in Memphis, TN, who had formed a union back within the 1960s. She says they too faced problems with unfair pay, and a scarcity of job security and safety. At the time, she says, black people weren't allowed to organize—but following two deaths from a dustcart malfunction and therefore the city’s refusal to exchange the defective equipment, the workers went on strike. “They went through such a lot , but they never gave up,” Demens said. “They fought hard and that they eventually won—and not only for themselves; what they did impacted the civil rights movement and therefore the fight for labor rights.” Demens points out how the win in Memphis helped many black people shift into the center class. “I think many of us , myself included, often feel overlooked—and that I even have no voice or say in what goes on during this industry or how I’m viewed within the community,” she said. While Demens doesn’t know whether a yoga union might be as powerful or effective as what had happened in Memphis, she acknowledges how unions can help people feel supported and of significance, and empower them to face up for what they believe . “Diversity is a problem everywhere—and it’s not really seen as something that’s missing. generally , we check a box if we've one person of color on a teaching schedule. It’s not fair to not even be considered. It’s not fair that even when I’m given an opportunity , it’s Monday at 2:30 within the afternoon. Who’s gonna come thereto class? My goal has been to try to to what I can to form yoga available to the folks that I know—people that appear as if me—and understanding the way to meet those people where they're . i feel that a yoga union would help make yoga classes available to more people. I’ve seen efforts toward this—my teachers offer scholarships to women of color. It’s healing to ascertain those shifts which thought and energy . I once taught a restorative class in Crown Heights at 4 p.m., to those women who were total BFFs; these old black women who looked a bit like my grandmother. The way they checked out me it had been like they were pleased with me, and once I checked out them I saw my grandmother. So once I teach now, I act as if I were teaching my grandmother. I’m not getting to shout at at her; I’m getting to set her up within the pose. As an Iyengar teacher all I can do is give commands—so it made me believe how could get more women like my grandmother to return to my class; more women like this. Whats missing is we'd like more stories like that. i would like to assist get these conversations going. one among my students recently reached bent me and asked me to start out teaching online classes. So I began to build a schedule that works on behalf of me . Before I had to require what I could get. Now I can run my classes the way i would like and provides my students what they have . An Asian women came to at least one of my classes to “rest her brain”—she said she was hurt by the toll the pandemic had taken on China, so I offered her restorative and pranayama. I wouldn’t are ready to do this before because i used to be always told I had to urge people moving. Now I can help people and provides them what they really need. With numerous people laid off and knowing that there’s some benefit they will get from class, I aks myself how do I make my clases more available and accessible to them.” –Deidra Demens, 500-hour Certified Yoga Teacher, Level 1 Iyengar Teacher

What Does Job Security Look Like in An Uncertain Future?

Some teachers may say they’re paid a good wage, but there are countless others who would argue they’re not. There are other teachers who would probably say that they've never been purchased their classes in the least . In my personal experience as an educator , I’ve made anywhere from $5 to $150 for one hour session, counting on whether i used to be paid per head ($5 = 1 student came) or a flat rate (corporate yoga or a yoga festival appearance). In most cases, yoga teachers work as independent contractors instead of as part-time employees of a studio, which, because the union points out, can save the studio money on unemployment insurance and workers compensation. YogaWorks has been an anomaly therein regard, since its teachers are employed either part- or full-time, and also are eligible surely benefits. But YogaWorks teachers need to work on least 10 hours per week to be eligible surely benefits—and Unionize Yoga believes that those benefits should be available to all or any . Still, generally speaking, yoga teachers rarely have job security, nor can most of them make an inexpensive living by teaching alone. There are many teachers who make it work by piecing together income from multiple studios, while others may rely solely on one because they’ve signed a non-compete clause. What happens when alittle , independent studio is struggling and has got to suddenly close, then those teachers are out of work? Or what happens when the economy reopens and we’re on the opposite side of the pandemic—how many studios will even survive and, what percentage teachers will still be out of work? very similar to the industry and aspects of the gig economy, the shortage of job security within the yoga world is being illuminated by the present depression . During quarantine and in survival mode, teachers have begun to understand the potential for generating revenue streams online without a brick-and-mortar studio. An unprecedented number of studios and teachers alike have migrated to measure stream classes and joined the Zoom boom, which, counting on time of day, scale of online and social media presence, and whether or not they’re giving content away for free of charge , may or not be understanding . There are teachers who’ve had upwards of 100 students during a single class, while others may even see just a couple in less desirable timeslot (what is that the new “prime time” for quarantine practice, anyway?). Other teachers, meanwhile, have expressed worry about those who’ve been giving their content away for free of charge , explaining that it devalues their expertise. Veronica Perretti, a former YogaWorks teacher and former NY teacher manager for YogaWorks, started her own online platform outside of the corporate mid-March, just following the announcement of the initial temporary studio closures. Though she had voted against the NY teachers’ union last fall, she’s still an advocate for teacher-owned businesses and believes that teachers should charge what they’re worth. “I replaced my monthly YogaWorks income within the matter of 1 week with my new online membership program,” Perretti said. “I think this is often subsequent frontier of teaching yoga.” She says this is often a flash for teachers to require ownership of their business outside of the studio and make a community that knows no bounds. “I don’t need YogaWorks to offer me a platform to show ,” she says. “I’m creating it for myself.” Just before the arrival of the coronavirus within the us , Unionize Yoga founding member Markella Los, gave up her group classes at YogaWorks and her position as an educator trainer, and subsequently, her involvement with the YogaWorks NY union. Her shift to specialise in one-on-one instruction and online community building was a timely one, and now, Los is committed to assist ing other teachers outside of YogaWorks mobilize and make solutions to help make the profession more sustainable. In May, Los launched The Connective, a web “teacher-powered” collective that aims to diversify the yoga industry and lift its standards. How The Connective holds up during a post-coronavirus world remains to be seen, since running your own business equates to even less protection when it involves job security, but Los seems optimistic, despite that the traditional could potentially pose more risk for teachers. “The current crisis is highlighting issues and insecurities of what it means to be an educator that tons folks already knew were there. Who gets to make a decision what the yoga industry seems like and who’s in it? What I could see happening is that inequities are further perpetuated, but in a web forum. I could see a direction during which business continues as was common , but within the ‘wild west.’ But what I also can see is a chance to course-correct; to arrange and have conversations around online teacher-owned businesses. There’s multiple ways for people to organize—it’s only limited by your collective creativity. Teachers are talking for therefore long about the thought or need for a yoga teachers’ union, and it never happened. It felt love it couldn’t be done. the very fact that we’ve shown it are often done shifts the scope of what is possible. Teachers reach bent us to seek out out what we did and the way to start out something on their own. we've a voice, we’re starting conversations, we’re connecting and being honest with what we’re all handling . Our goal has always been to boost industry standards overall—and for the profession to become more sustainable for anyone who wants to be in it. for much longer than I even have been teaching, people have talked about the thought or need for a yoga teachers’ union. They talked about it for therefore long and it never happened; it felt love it couldn’t be done. the very fact that we showed that it might be done shifts the scope of what is possible. It’s been a tremendous facilitator for conversation—teachers reach bent determine what we did and the way to start out something on their own. We’re starting important conversations; we’re connecting and being honest with what we are all handling . That’s been a hugely important profound shift. –Markella Los, 500-hour Certified Yoga Teacher; Yoga Tune Up YogaWorks, Trauma-Conscious Yoga Method, FRC Mobility Specialist

Are Yoga Teachers Entitled to Healthcare, Regardless of Hours Worked?

As London-based teacher Norman Blair wrote in his blog, “How can we stay well when working within the wellness industry?” Whenever an educator gets sick, they'll ‘power through’ and teach anyway (it’s only an hour, right?), putting the health of their students in danger also as their own. the choice , of course, is to seek out a sub. Either way, the teachers who are independent contractors don’t get paid once they don’t teach. Worse, when an educator is injured and out of labor , how can they still make ends meet? The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed how easily anyone can become ill, no matter their physical health. It’s a deadly reminder of the very fact that many Americans still live without insurance . Unionize Yoga believes that, like all trained worker , yoga teachers need and deserve benefits like healthcare. YogaWorks teachers, unlike most teachers at independent studios, are regular employees of the corporate , not independent contractors, which is why they’re eligible for perks like wage and which is additionally why they might legally form a union within the corporate . And though YogaWorks employees who work 10 classes per week (or equivalent) are considered full-time, consistent with Unionize Yoga, no teacher at YogaWorks NY had worked that a lot of hours. the amount of hours worked, of course, doesn't include the countless ‘invisible hours’ (class prep, travel, training, etc.), involved in teaching a category . Unionize Yoga says that healthcare benefits should be made available to all or any teachers, no matter hours worked. The common practice, a minimum of within the U.S., is that insurance usually applies only to those that work full-time, or part-time at a particular number of hours. But Unionize Yoga says that there’s no reason why a part-time teacher can’t be entitled thereto same fundamental right. YogaWorks, however, states otherwise, citing the company’s already existing benefits package as a rare exception within the yoga world—and the sole company within the industry to supply a leave policy. "YogaWorks is that the winner within the industry in providing benefits like health care coverage and 401k plans to full-time teachers, while also ensuring that each one among our teachers is an employee with all applicable benefits, including wage and hour protection, unemployment insurance, leave pay, family leave, and workers compensation,” a spokesperson from YogaWorks told me in an email. “We believe our extraordinary retention among our teachers, many spending decades with the corporate , may be a testament to our commitment to them and to the above market wages we offer altogether of our markets.” David DiMaria, a representative of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers’ (IAMAW) Eastern territory, works with new groups who’ve organized to make a union. He explains that independent contractors aren't covered by the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), which allows unions to legally form within companies. However, very similar to Uber drivers did in ny , independent contractors can still organize—just not within an equivalent legal framework of a formally recognized union that gives workers with additional rights. DiMaria understands the political and financial challenges that accompany fighting for healthcare, but believes that if yoga teachers were to arrange in greater numbers across different employers, that it’s doable within the future . very similar to actors’ unions, which believe contributions made by multiple employers, he says that following an identical model could mean that nobody employer would need to bear the high cost of insurance for his or her employees alone, which teachers could qualify for benefits no matter the amount of hours worked. “It’s a very tough issue due to the character of labor . Some teachers teach one class every week and a few teach five. We are watching ways to supply some level of advantages for everybody , but we are so early within the process that it’s timely to inform . We are bargaining over different issues and it’s all contingent agreeing to the entire contract, we won’t have an agreement until each side ratify. But once we last met with the corporate there was movement on their end. consider it sort of a junior high school dance, it begins with people on opposite sides of the space , but eventually everyone starts dancing.” –David DiMaria, Eastern Territory Organizing Lead, IAMAW

Should Studios Prioritize Teachers’ Pay Over Student Numbers?

Yoga studios, regardless of what size, exist due to yoga teachers. and lots of teachers have said that enormous companies like YogaWorks and CorePower, which are owned by private equity firms, could compensate their teachers with better living wages (the teacher-led lawsuit against CorePower in 2019 cited underpaid wages). Unionize Yoga says that a good wage is one that increases over time with experience, and considers other factors like the rising costs of living. (A quick disclosure: As a former YogaWorks NY teacher, my flat rate, when averaged over time, was still superior in comparison with the smaller studios that had paid me per head.) the matter with YogaWorks’ pay scale, however, as some YogaWorks NY teachers have said, had been the shortage of transparency about its pay system. Christine Festa, a yoga teacher and coach in Southeast Florida who completed her 200- and 300-hour teacher trainings at YogaWorks NY and NJ, agrees, and says it’s the massive companies who should be leading the industry by example. “There shouldn’t be of these different teachers at different pay rates,” she told me, flagging nepotism together potential issue. “There should be a group structure that's shared among teachers in order that all teachers understand where they substitute the combination of things; in order that they know where they’ll go as they progress in their career.” Festa is notoriously outspoken on social media about problems within the industry at large, and coaches yoga teachers on the way to become more self-sufficient by generating new revenue streams outside of studios. Tamar Samir, another founding member of Unionize Yoga and a YogaWorks NY teacher since 2010, says she’s an advocate for teachers. She’s argued for transparency around pay, and for various ‘pay bands,’ or layers of pay, that increase supported experience (Samir has completed over 1,500 hours of training). She suggests that there has got to be how for both the studio and teacher to financially flourish together. Yet as an accomplished creative director and professor of design at Parsons School of Design and Pratt in ny , Samir doesn’t necessarily believe teaching yoga to pay her bills. But when YogaWorks announced that it might close its Westside studio in late-2018 with only three weeks' notice, she realized just how fragile the industry are often for the typical teacher. Though the corporate took measures to reassign teachers elsewhere, the relationships between those teachers and therefore the students who’d been coming to their classes were broken—an entire community dissolved almost in a moment . “One of the items i assumed about after being during this industry for 10 plus years was that I even have tons less to lose than people . It became very clear there have been inequities, and that i have seen an equivalent patterns repeat over and once again . There’s a dichotomy between how yoga is presented publicly and what teaching yoga is really like behind-the-scenes. We see Instagram posts where teachers look beautiful, healthy, and peaceful, but all folks know that that's not actually the case in the least . Many teachers live in small apartments and earning under the poverty level . So maybe they’re accomplished on Instagram, but they’re also doing a waitressing or bartending job that they are not telling the planet about. there is a quite hypocrisy that’s built into the profession; you've got to present yourself as a picture of health and prosperity. It makes it harder for people to advocate for themselves. That’s why we’re the reality tellers—we’re telling people what a yoga teacher’s life is basically like. Yoga is about solidarity and connectedness—which should be a no brainer for yogis. –Tamar Samir, Creative Director and Yoga Teacher

Should Seniority and Experience Be Rewarded?

In most other professions, a worker receives a raise in their salary supported their performance, whether by appointment to a higher-level position supported seniority or through adequate compensation supported experience. The yoga industry, at large, has no such pay structure. In most cases, an educator just out of teacher training could also be paid an equivalent interest rate that increases per student as an educator with 10 years or more of experience. this suggests that a lot of teachers are rewarded for his or her personality and following, versus experience, while others may simply get lucky and secure lucrative time slots for his or her classes. When compared with the restaurant industry, for instance , a server with more seniority often gets the higher section, and walks away with 3 times the maximum amount take advantage their pocket on any given night as a less experienced server in another section. But many restaurants now have mandatory tip pooling systems in an effort to be more fair to their employees across the board. While pooled class earnings for yoga teachers might not be the foremost practical solution, Unionize Yoga is lobbying for a transparent pay structure that rewards teachers supported their skills and knowledge , instead of leaving it up to the luck of the draw or a robust personality with an outsized social media presence to urge ahead. German-born Nora Heillman, a performance artist turned yoga teacher, moved to ny from Amsterdam in 2013 where she met her wife, Samir. She recalls the first days as an immigrant in ny when she took whatever work she could get, teaching very early or late in the dark for little or no money. But after five years, exhausted and depleted, she found herself wondering how she’d be ready to continue—or what would happen if she got sick or ever wanted to retire at some point. As a yoga and meditation teacher with 13 years of experience and quite 1,600 hours of coaching , Heillman says she’s cycled through 12 studios in 5 years, many of which have closed, including 3 YogaWorks locations at the time of this interview (Heillman had been an educator at YogaWorks since 2014). She recalls the frustration of going to an area where she finally felt financially secure enough to pay her bills, just in time for an additional studio to shut its doors. Heillman recalls the sense of urgency that followed the closure of the YogaWorks Westside location in 2018; the belief of the shortage of sustainability within the profession— even as sustainability was becoming a buzzword, she says. That’s when she, Samir, and Los began their initial discussions that led to the first formation of the Teachers’ Initiative. “There are teachers at YogaWorks who are teaching for 25 years. We don’t have regular raises or evaluation meetings per annum like other jobs, since that’s not a typical within the yoga world. Teachers need to fight for a raise or salary that they might wish to see themselves at. And sometimes, after a few years of teaching, maybe they’ll have an honest salary, on the other hand a studio starts to limit classes and convey in new teachers at a lower rate who’ve just begin of coaching , because it’s less costly for the studio. There’s no financial security for teachers with more experience. That’s why we’re advocating for teachers with the foremost experience, especially those who’ve been at an equivalent studio for several years. They’re those who should have first access to classes opening up. There must be some career path for growth; knowing that your salary will go up if you persist with the corporate . Some teachers’ salaries haven’t gone up in 15 years at YogaWorks and at other studios, when now we pay $1,000 more dollars in rent per month than we did years ago. It’s a pity when a studio loses a highly qualified teacher because they’re burned-out and throwing in the towel of the profession. I just take what's offered to me, but i do know it’s the louder personalities who get $30 more per class. If you are not a fighter, you would possibly be teaching for low pay your whole life. How would any folks have navigated the present crisis without having had the community we’ve created through the union? we actually do support one another through all of this.” –Nora Heillmann, Yoga Teacher

The Next Step for Yoga

We have found ourselves during a moment where everything is changing and nobody really knows what the post-COVID yoga world are going to be like—with or without a union. Digital platforms could morph into an amplified version of a contest , rewarding only those that are highly skilled at self-promotion and social media marketing. Many studios will close and businesses will inevitably fail. For people who survive and remain open, the longer term of yoga—at least the foreseeable one—is a special place then once we left it. A future that limits in-studio class offerings, ushers students into a building one-by-one to require their temperatures, then caps the space at 6 to eight students. A world where students are inhaling and exhaling into their face masks with their mats strategically placed six feet apart. a wierd new reality where fears of germs are but a continuing , where extreme disinfectant and sanitization measures put anyone who’s willing to steer into a studio jittery . In some ways, it might appear to be going back to the way things were is like trying to force a square peg into a round hole. Maybe there's no going back. Maybe this this is often our moment, as an industry, to change, collaborate, create, and innovate—to transcend beyond studio walls. As we glance toward the longer term , as uncertain because it could seem at the present , perhaps we might all enjoy identifying what we don’t want the industry to seem like by acknowledging what it isn’t. It’s never the past neither is it our attachments thereto . The solutions aren't getting to be found by forcing things to be as they once were. As my teacher and studio owner, Jill Sockman, said during a virtual government building meeting on concentrate May as she announced the closure of her brick-and-mortar space in Raleigh, Blue Lotus, (where I had taught and practiced before the pandemic), “We’re not getting to find ‘the yoga’ by fighting what is; we can’t avoid doing the hard thing because it’s uncomfortable.” Author: Andrea Rice Source: https://www.yogajournal.com/teach/future-of-yoga-post-covid Discover more info about Yoga Poses for Two People here: Yoga Poses for Two Read the full article

[tsgmemphistennessee]

How To Make a Difference Starting Today and Moving Forward

You signed a petition, you sent a text, you even posted a black box to your Instagram feed, but now what? What can you do to make a difference today and continue making a difference? We’re sharing a few ways you can act now to impact change and make a local and global difference in the fight for unity and equality. If you would like more ideas or businesses to support, check out this article by Choose 901 that inspired today’s blog.

1. DONATE: There are so many great local and national organizations working hard everyday to make a difference. If you have an organization you already support, we suggest donating to them. However, if you’re looking for one to donate to here are a few we love:

The Leadership Council on Civil & Human Rights Black Lives Matter - Memphis Chapter The Innocence Project Mid-South Peace & Justice National Civil Rights Museum Mississippi Civil Rights Museum The Conscious Kid MLK 50 Color of Change NAACP

2. SUPPORT LOCAL: Now more than ever the black-ownedbusinesses in your community need your help! It may be a restaurant, a fitness studio, recreational activity, clothing brand or maybe a fine arts institution. Here are a few from our community to get you started:

Food: Evelyn & Olive The Bar B Q Shop Midtown Crossing Grill Makeda’s Cookies Camille’s Kitchen

Fitness: Your Inner Yogi Spincult Snap Fitness Oxford

Fun: City Tasting Tours - Memphis QBHome Paint & Sip September Nail Salon

Fashion: iv by David Blue Suede Vintage Mbabazi House of Style Tanganika by Tangie Demi Blvck Paris Chanel

Fine Arts: Hattiloo Theater Collage Dance Collective Historic Clayborn Temple

3. CAST YOUR VOTE: As you are likely already aware it is an election year and your vote matters! We’re not just talking about the Presidential Election, but local elections are also taking place very soon. Your local officials are the individuals crucial when it comes to making big decisions regarding your city and state. Mark these dates on your calendar:

TN Early Voting: July 17th - August 1st TN State Primary Election Date: August 6th MS State House of Representatives Special Election: June 23rd

Register to Vote: Tennessee Mississippi

4. KEEP LEARNING: The only way to keep the conversation going is to continue having it and learning from each other. Choose to read books with subjects that are outside of your comfort zone or watch that documentary you’ve swiped past several times on Netflix. Fill your social media feed with more diverse points of view by following and subscribing to inclusive handles and media outlets. This should become an every day practice. Here is how to start today:

Read Relevant Books: 20 Best Books About Anti-Racism to Educate Yourself 31 Children’s Books to Support Conversations on Race, Racism and Resistance Mahogany Books

Watch Movies & Documentaries: 18 Movies and Documentaries That Confront Race in America 10 Movies to Watch to Better Understand Black History in America

Follow & Subscribe to Inclusive Media Channels: Find local and national media channels that are sharing more than one perspective to help you begin to build a feed that is more diverse and inclusive in race, ethnicity, gender and more. Here are a few handles to check out:

Good Good Good Choose 901 Black in Memphis We Are Memphis From Privilege to Progress Color of Change Black Lives Matter Official Black Wall Street

E-Learn to Unlearn: So much of who we are, how we act and say or what we believe in ingrained in us from a young age. In order to retrain ourselves to think, speak and react differently we must first unlearn some of those behaviors. If you’re interested in exploring what this process would be like, check out: Rachel Cargle’s The Great Unlearn

Listen & Ask Questions: Lastly, we must all continue to take the time  to listen when our instinct may be to speak, and ask questions when we simply do not have or know the answers.