#self improvement courses in Houston Texas

[marksmanrange]

Firearm Training Houston: Master the Art of Shooting Safely

Houston offers a wealth of opportunities for individuals interested in learning how to handle firearms safely and effectively. Firearm training in Houston is available for shooters of all skill levels, ensuring that everyone can benefit from expert instruction and hands-on experience.

Why Firearm Training Matters

Proper training is critical when it comes to firearms, not just for safety but also for performance. Whether you’re new to firearms or have years of experience, there’s always room to improve your shooting technique and enhance your safety habits. Firearm training in Houston is designed to help you feel more confident with your firearm, whether you're using it for self-defense, competition, or recreation.

Professional instructors provide gun classes in Houston that cover everything from basic firearm mechanics to advanced shooting techniques. With a focus on safety, these classes teach you the correct way to handle, load, and fire your weapon, ensuring you’re ready to use your firearm in any situation.

What to Expect in Firearm Training

When you enroll in firearm training in Houston, you'll begin by learning the basics, such as how to handle different types of firearms, proper stance and grip, aiming techniques, and safe storage practices. As you progress, more advanced courses will focus on precision shooting, rapid-fire techniques, and even tactical maneuvers.

For those looking to carry their firearm legally, LTC classes in Houston are essential. These courses prepare you for the legal and practical aspects of carrying a concealed firearm, covering Texas gun laws, safety protocols, and conflict de-escalation techniques. Completing an LTC course ensures you're fully prepared to carry a firearm responsibly and legally.

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Transform Your Game with the Best Golf Lessons in Houston

Golf is often described as a sport of precision, patience, and skill. But for those who want to improve their game, it’s also about the right training, guidance, and practice. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player looking to refine your technique, enrolling in professional golf lessons can be the key to unlocking your full potential. In Houston, a city with a rich golfing tradition and beautiful courses, you’ll find numerous opportunities to elevate your game. In this blog, we’ll explore how you can transform your game with the best golf lessons in Houston, what to expect from professional instruction, and why it matters for golfers of all skill levels.

Why Golf Lessons Matter

No matter how many hours you spend at the driving range or out on the course, self-guided practice can only take you so far. Golf is a complex sport that requires mastery over several components: swing mechanics, short game techniques, mental focus, and course management. Without expert guidance, it can be challenging to identify bad habits, correct mistakes, and fully understand the nuances of the game.

The best golf lessons in Houston provide personalized feedback, expert insight, and tailored drills to help you make significant strides in your game. They address all aspects of the sport, including:

Swing Technique: Learning the fundamentals of a proper golf swing, including posture, grip, and tempo.

Short Game Mastery: Improving skills around the greens, including putting, chipping, and bunker play.

Course Strategy: Learning how to navigate the course smartly, improving decision-making, and understanding how to play each hole optimally.

Mental Game: Developing the mental toughness and focus needed to stay composed and confident, even under pressure.

Benefits of Taking Golf Lessons in Houston

Houston is a prime location for golf enthusiasts, offering an array of courses that cater to all skill levels. More importantly, the city is home to some of the best golf instructors in the country. Taking golf lessons in Houston brings a number of key advantages:

1. Personalized Instruction

One of the major benefits of professional golf lessons is the personalized instruction you’ll receive. Every golfer has unique strengths and weaknesses. A qualified golf coach will assess your current level, identify areas for improvement, and develop a customized plan to help you grow. Whether you need to adjust your grip, fine-tune your stance, or work on your follow-through, your instructor will provide targeted exercises to hone these skills.

Houston's top instructors use advanced technology like video analysis, launch monitors, and swing tracking tools to break down your movements and give you visual feedback. This helps to correct mistakes faster and makes it easier to track progress.

2. Access to Premier Facilities

Houston boasts some of the finest golf facilities in Texas, and many of these come equipped with cutting-edge training equipment. By enrolling in golf lessons at these premier locations, you can enjoy access to driving ranges, putting greens, practice bunkers, and even indoor simulators. Practicing in such a well-equipped environment allows you to improve every aspect of your game in an immersive setting.

3. All-Level Coaching

Whether you're a novice learning to hold a golf club for the first time or a seasoned player looking to shave strokes off your scorecard, Houston's golf instructors cater to all levels. Beginners benefit from learning the fundamentals in a structured way, while more advanced players can focus on technical refinement, shot consistency, and strategic play at the best golf lessons in Houston. The ability to receive instruction suited to your level ensures steady progress and keeps the lessons engaging.

4. Group and Private Lessons

Another great aspect of golf instruction in Houston is the variety of lesson formats. Depending on your preferences, you can opt for private one-on-one lessons or participate in group sessions. Private lessons offer personalized attention and faster progression, while group lessons are ideal for those who enjoy learning in a social setting and benefiting from peer feedback. Group lessons can also be a fun way to meet fellow golf enthusiasts and learn in a collaborative environment.

5. Tournament Preparation

If you're looking to take your game to a competitive level, Houston's top golf instructors can also help with tournament preparation. They can guide you through advanced techniques, provide insight into handling competitive pressure, and offer tips on how to prepare both mentally and physically for tournaments. You’ll learn strategies to play smarter, avoid common pitfalls, and perform consistently under tournament conditions.

What to Expect During Your Golf Lessons

When you sign up for golf lessons in Houston, you can expect a structured and comprehensive approach that covers the following key areas:

1. Assessment and Goal Setting

Your first session will typically include an assessment of your current skill level. The instructor will evaluate your swing, putting, and other basic techniques to understand where you stand. Based on this evaluation, you and your coach will set realistic goals, whether it’s breaking 100 for the first time, lowering your handicap, or mastering a specific aspect of your game.

2. Swing Mechanics and Technique

One of the primary focuses of any golf lesson will be improving your swing mechanics. Your coach will work on your grip, stance, alignment, and posture, ensuring that you have a solid foundation for your swing. Video analysis may be used to break down your swing in slow motion, identifying any areas that need adjustment.

3. Short Game Practice

A significant portion of your lessons will also focus on the short game, which is where many golfers struggle the most. Putting, chipping, and bunker shots require precise technique and practice. Instructors will provide drills to improve your touch and feel around the greens, helping you save valuable strokes.

4. Course Management and Strategy

Knowing how to play each hole strategically is a critical skill for lowering your score. Lessons will include discussions on course management, club selection, and shot planning. Your instructor will help you understand when to play aggressively and when to take a more conservative approach based on your skillset and the course layout.

5. Mental Training

A huge part of playing better golf is mastering the mental side of the game. Your instructor will teach you techniques to stay focused, manage pressure, and maintain confidence on the course. Whether it’s handling nerves during a tough shot or maintaining focus over 18 holes, mental training is often the key to unlocking your best performance.

Choosing the Right Golf Instructor in Houston

When selecting a golf instructor in Houston, it’s essential to consider a few key factors:

Experience and Credentials: Look for instructors with a proven track record, professional certifications (such as PGA or LPGA membership), and positive reviews from students.

Teaching Style: Everyone learns differently, so it’s important to find an instructor whose teaching style resonates with you. Some instructors focus heavily on mechanics, while others emphasize feel and rhythm.

Technology and Equipment: Opt for instructors who use modern tools such as launch monitors and video analysis to provide data-driven feedback.

Flexibility: Consider the location and schedule of lessons. Houston is a large city, so choosing an instructor who can accommodate your schedule and is located near you is important for consistent progress.

Conclusion

Transforming your game with the best golf lessons in Houston is not only about improving your swing but also about mastering the mental, strategic, and technical aspects of golf. With access to top-notch instructors, premier facilities, and tailored lesson plans, golfers of all skill levels can unlock their true potential on the course. Whether you're aiming to play more confidently in local tournaments or simply enjoy the game more, investing in professional instruction is the first step towards achieving your golfing goals.

If you're ready to take your game to the next level, explore the top golf lessons available in Houston and start your journey towards a better, more enjoyable golf experience.

[selfimprovementtips]

The Power of Wisdom | Self-Improvement Coaching

The Power of Wisdom“Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself.��-Jalal Rumi. Wisdom comes when you arrive at the understanding that the power to shape your life belongs to you and to no one else.

The power to shape your life is yours. Yes, all of us can be and are affected by circumstances, people and things. It is up to you as to how you choose to be affected and to the extent you let these things impact you. With a strong internal compass of morals and values to guide you there will be two good things that will happen.

First, you will be tipped off to opportunities that were not visible before. Secondly, you will be made aware of dangers that are not readily apparent. You will now have the wisdom to make better decisions.

The best self improvement courses you will take are the ones where you focus on your personal development. You will begin to understand the process of acquiring wisdom. “Change your thinking. Change your life.” Repeat!

Key words: self improvement courses, personal development, change your thinking, change your life

Get More Info : Self Improvement Tips and Ideas Houston Texas

Websites : https://www.selfimprovement-tips.com/

Contact Us : Personal development coaching Houston

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Firearm Training in Houston - Marksman Range

Houston, Texas is known for many things - its rich cultural diversity, thriving economy, and of course, its Texan pride. However, another aspect that deserves attention is the city's commitment to firearm training and safety. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of firearm training in Houston and how it can help individuals equip themselves with essential safety measures and skills.

Why is Firearm Training Important?

Ensuring Safety for Yourself and Others

Firearm training is crucial to ensure the safety of both yourself and those around you. Without proper training, handling a firearm can be extremely dangerous. Firearm accidents can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities. By attending firearm training in Houston, you will learn fundamental safety rules and practices, ensuring that you are equipped to handle firearms responsibly.

Building Confidence and Comfort

For individuals who are new to firearms, they can be intimidating. Firearm training in Houston provides a safe and controlled environment where beginners can learn how to handle firearms with confidence. By understanding the proper techniques and procedures, individuals can cultivate a sense of comfort and proficiency when it comes to firearms.

Adhering to Legal Requirements

In Houston, as well as in most states, there are legal requirements for obtaining a firearm license. Completing an approved firearm training program is often a necessary step in obtaining this license. By attending reputable firearm training courses, individuals can fulfill the legal requirements set by the authorities and ensure a smooth application process.

Types of Firearm Training Available in Houston

When it comes to firearm training in Houston, there are various options available to cater to different needs and skill levels. Some of the popular types of firearm training include:

Fundamental Classes: This course covers essential safety rules, proper handling techniques, and fundamental knowledge of various firearms.

Handgun Training: Specifically focused on handguns, this training dives deeper into different shooting stances, grip techniques, and accuracy improvement.

Licnece to carry classes: Many individuals choose to obtain a concealed carry license to legally carry their firearms. This type of training provides information on carrying laws, situational awareness, and self-defense strategies.

Advanced Firearm Training: For individuals who have already mastered the basics, advanced firearm training offers more challenging drills, tactical scenarios, and high-level shooting techniques.

You can find a firearm training provider in Houston that meets your requirements and allows you to gain the necessary skills and knowledge.

Conclusion

Firearm training in Houston at Marksman Range Indoor Shooting Range in Houston offers individuals an opportunity to learn essential safety measures and skills required for responsible firearm ownership. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced firearm enthusiast, taking part in firearm training will equip you with the confidence and skills needed to handle firearms responsibly.

Train with the experts at Marksman Range Indoor Shooting Range in Houston and be ready for everything! We offer various shooting classes. Find out more about some of them below:

LTC Classes (Licence to Carry classes)

Fundamental Classes

Basic Instruction Classes

USCCA Classes

We also provide Firearms purchase rentals in Houston. Visit our website for more information and contact us. Click the link: Marksman Range

So, why wait? Start your journey toward firearm proficiency today!

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Genie Script – Wesley Virgin Power-Motivation Best Program

The Genie Script meditation facilitates reflection on one's life objectives. It also enables one to concentrate on a specific objective, thereby increasing the likelihood of success. Genie Script is an absurd moniker for a product designed for this form of meditation. Wesley Virgin has developed a brand-new 30-day programme. It was designed by Wesley in a way that promotes enhanced emotional, mental, and financial health. Create Abundance, Health, and Joy While You Sleep

What is Genie Script?

Wesley Virgin, a self-made millionaire who understands the power of the mind, contributes to his accomplishments. He also believes that manifest hacking allows him to materialise business concepts. Virgin Media was founded by Wesley Virgin and is located in Houston, Texas.

This 30-day curriculum includes eBooks, videos, and audio recordings. Wesley authored the Genie script, which is designed to function miraculously like a genie. When an individual utilises the online programme, they will develop a positive attitude, and as a result, they will achieve their objectives. As a result, Wesley named the software Genie Script in an effort to convey the notion that users will obtain their manifestations after employing it, much like a genie who can grant wishes. How Might This 20-Word Script Alter Your Life? Find Out Here

How does it work?

Gene Script is a guided meditation designed to help individuals reprogram their subconscious mind for success and prosperity. Here is how it operates:

Beginning with an introduction that will help you unwind and prepare your mind for the meditation guide will then proceed to the actual meditation instructions. This may involve breathing exercises, body assessments, or other forms of relaxation.

The meditation guide will then present affirmations designed to reprogram your subconscious mind for success and abundance. These affirmations may be repeated multiple times to reinforce their message and may concentrate on specific objectives, such as financial abundance or career success.

Benefits

Success meditation is a form of meditation designed to assist individuals in achieving their objectives and increasing their likelihood of success. Here are a few possible advantages of achievement meditation:

Meditation has been shown to reduce levels of tension and anxiety, which can be a significant barrier to achievement. Meditation on success can help you unwind and approach your objectives with a clear and focused mind.

Success meditation can enhance your ability to concentrate and maintain focus, which can be crucial to attaining your objectives.

Success meditation can help you increase your self-confidence and self-esteem, which are essential components of success. By cultivating a positive self-image and strengthening your self-belief, you can approach your objectives with greater confidence and resolve.

Success meditation can assist in the development of a more optimistic perspective and outlook on life. By focusing on positive affirmations and visualisations, you can train your mind to think positively, even when confronted with difficulties or setbacks.

Success meditation can have a positive effect on your well-being as a whole. Regular meditation can reduce stress, improve the quality of your sleep, and enhance your overall sense of well-being, all of which can contribute to your success in attaining your objectives.

The programme is founded on the Law of Attraction and the power of the subconscious mind. The Genie Script programme provides participants with the following benefits:

 Workbook: A comprehensive workbook containing step-by-step instructions, exercises, and worksheets to assist participants in applying the course's concepts.

A programme consisting of guided meditations and visualisations designed to assist participants in reprogramming their subconscious mind for success and abundance.

Where Can I Obtain Genie Script?

The official website sells the digital meditation course Genie Script. The product can be purchased through the official website. To take advantage of the limited savings, individuals should consult the official website. The cost of the meditation programme is as follows: A thirty-day meditation course costs $43.

Summary

The goal of the Genie Script programme is to assist participants in overcoming negative thought patterns and reprogramming their subconscious mind for success and prosperity. By cultivating a positive perspective and applying the principles of the Law of Attraction, individuals can attract abundance and achieve their objectives more efficiently.

Overall, success meditation can be a useful aid for those who wish to attain their objectives and increase their likelihood of success. You can approach your objectives with greater clarity, determination, and resiliency if you cultivate a clear and focused mind, create self-confidence, and cultivate a positive mindset. Visit Official Genie Script Website Here

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However, your registration helps us better understand your preferences and enables us to provide all of our readers with credible and insightful journalism.

The views and opinions conveyed in this sponsored article are those of the sponsor/author/agency, not those of Mid-Day Group. Mid-Day Group disclaims all liability to any party, company, or product for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental, or consequential damages resulting from the direct or indirect use of this content.

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Benefits Of Martial Arts for Men, Women, And Kids

If you live in Houston and want to learn martial arts, you can join a martial arts Houston Texas course. The martial arts classes are held in separate batches for men, women, and kids. The course helps you learn to fight your opponent and beat them. Your trainer will teach you basic and advanced methods of fighting. It includes techniques like kicking, grappling, punching, choking, and balancing your body. Enrolling in a class of martial arts can change your life for the better. It transforms your personality and makes you a better human being.

What Are The Benefits Of Martial Arts?

Martial arts are very important for self-defense. It protects you from danger and improves your physical and mental strength. Fighting skills are needed when someone attacks you or when you find yourself in a threatening situation. It makes you a confident person and boosts your self-image. You perform better at work and studies if you learn martial arts. It is a full-body workout that increases your mobility, muscle strength, coordination, movement, and flexibility. Martial arts relax your mind and improve your posture. It reduces blood pressure. The training makes you fit and healthy. Martial arts increase your stamina and endurance. Joining martial arts classes Houston helps you get the above benefits.

What Do You Learn In A Martial Arts Class?

The classes are hosted by world-class trainers and black belt experts. They teach you techniques of striking, grappling, and throwing the opponent on the ground. The trainer imparts fighting skills in the class and you have to perform the movements repeatedly which helps in instilling discipline in you. You have to do warm-up exercises and stretching in a martial art class that helps in giving exercise to your body.

Who Should Learn Martial Arts?

Martial arts are useful for people of all ages including children, adults, and children. Both men and women can benefit from enrolling in a course in martial art in Houston Texas. Children who learn martial arts become very confident and their grades improve. They exhibit good performance in school. People who want to learn self-defense must join a class of martial arts. Martial arts are useful for people who are suffering from hypertension or other types of health problems. Anyone who wants to improve their fitness and health can join martial arts training.

What Are The Different Types Of Martial Arts?

Martial arts include many types of self-defense training techniques like Karate, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, taekwondo, judo, Jujutsu, mixed martial arts, kickboxing, Kung fu, boxing, Tai chi, Japanese martial arts, and others. Brazilian jiu-jitsu is a Brazilian martial art. Judo, jujutsu, and karate are Japanese martial arts. Kung fu and Tai chi have their origin in China while Taekwondo is a Korean martial art.

What Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

Brazilian jiu-jitsu is a martial art that involves grappling and fighting on the ground. You have to adopt a strategy of throwing your rival on the ground and dominating them. You may need to use the skills of locking the joints during the fight and also choke holding. Check out martial arts schools in Houston TX and learn Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

Source

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Buy Wings to Fly: Your Daily Lift Off to Soar to Greater Heights by Stephen T. Scott (eBook) online at Lulu. Visit the Lulu Marketplace for product details, ratings, and reviews.

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Have a look at the latest Self improvement Blogs:

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Self improvement does not change things overnight. It is about small things. You develop a new skill here or a new discipline there.

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Wings To Fly provides daily encouragement for you to take the steps to become the person you wish to be and to have the life you desire.

[jiujitsunews]

White Belt BJJ Tournament: Helpful Tips and Strategies

The first competition in which most Brazilian jiu-jitsu practitioners compete is a stressful experience.

If you are a BJJ white belt, you may encounter a number of difficulties while competing in BJJ tournaments when you first begin, even if you have substantial martial arts experience.

As a beginner white belt may not be aware, Brazilian jiu-jitsu is a unique martial art that is a problem-solving sport discipline.

Therefore, the competitor must deal with a variety of variables (BJJ positions, effective jiu-jitsu moves, pressure, and so on) while competing in BJJ tournaments.

If you want to compete, there are a plethora of jiu-jitsu competitions taking place all over the world (tournaments in Florida, Texas, San Diego, California, Houston, New Jersey, Canada, and many more locations).

The good news is that a beginner BJJ white belt who wishes to compete in these competitions is also eligible to do so if he so chooses to do so.

What follows is a list of BJJ competition preparation tips to help you get ready for your next competition. Have a good time!

But first and foremost!

SHOULD I COMPETE IN JIU-JITSU TOURNAMENTS

Competition may turn out to be the best experience of your life, as you will learn a slew of amazing things that will change the course of your life.

The goals of each practitioner when beginning Brazilian jiu-jitsu can include self-defense, self-improvement, and a variety of other objectives.

In fact, competing teaches you valuable lessons that will help you become a better version of yourself by increasing your self-confidence, self-esteem, and ability to use effective tactics to get things done.

Indeed, many people compete in Brazilian jiu-jitsu tournaments in order to improve their skills, learn something new, and determine whether or not they are becoming better at BJJ martial arts in general.

Otherwise, the level of your Brazilian jiu-jitsu training will improve as you progress through competing. As a result, your game becomes more effective, and it includes techniques and submissions that are tailored to your individual needs.

The following are some important BJJ Tournaments Keys and Tips that you should be aware of in order to win any jiu-jitsu match.

Read More: https://jiujitsu-news.com/bjj-tournaments-keys/

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©JUNETEENTH.com

Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. Dating back to 1865, it was on June 19th that the Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, landed at Galveston, Texas with news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free. Note that this was two and a half years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation - which had become official January 1, 1863. The Emancipation Proclamation had little impact on the Texans due to the minimal number of Union troops to enforce the new Executive Order. However, with the surrender of General Lee in April of 1865, and the arrival of General Granger’s regiment, the forces were finally strong enough to influence and overcome the resistance.

Later attempts to explain this two and a half year delay in the receipt of this important news have yielded several versions that have been handed down through the years. Often told is the story of a messenger who was murdered on his way to Texas with the news of freedom. Another is that the news was deliberately withheld by the enslavers to maintain the labor force on the plantations. And still another is that federal troops actually waited for the slave owners to reap the benefits of one last cotton harvest before going to Texas to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation. All of which, or none of these versions could be true. Certainly, for some, President Lincoln's authority over the rebellious states was in question.  Whatever the reasons, conditions in Texas remained status quo well beyond what was statutory.

General Order Number 3

One of General Granger’s first orders of business was to read to the people of Texas, General Order Number 3 which began most significantly with:

"The people of Texas are informed that in accordance with a Proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and hired laborer."

The reactions to this profound news ranged from pure shock to immediate jubilation. While many lingered to learn of this new employer to employee relationship, many left before these offers were completely off the lips of their former 'masters' - attesting to the varying conditions on the plantations and the realization of freedom. Even with nowhere to go, many felt that leaving the plantation would be their first grasp of freedom. North was a logical destination and for many it represented true freedom, while the desire to reach family members in neighboring states drove some into Louisiana, Arkansas and Oklahoma. Settling into these new areas as free men and women brought on new realities and the challenges of establishing a heretofore non-existent status for black people in America. Recounting the memories of that great day in June of 1865 and its festivities would serve as motivation as well as a release from the growing pressures encountered in their new territories. The celebration of June 19th was coined "Juneteenth" and grew with more participation from descendants. The Juneteenth celebration was a time for reassuring each other, for praying and for gathering remaining family members. Juneteenth continued to be highly revered in Texas decades later, with many former slaves and descendants making an annual pilgrimage back to Galveston on this date.

Juneteenth Festivities and Food

A range of activities were provided to entertain the masses, many of which continue in tradition today. Rodeos, fishing, barbecuing and baseball are just a few of the typical Juneteenth activities you may witness today. Juneteenth almost always focused on education and self improvement. Thus, often guest speakers are brought in and the elders are called upon to recount the events of the past. Prayer services were also a major part of these celebrations.

Certain foods became popular and subsequently synonymous with Juneteenth celebrations such as strawberry soda-pop. More traditional and just as popular was the barbecuing, through which Juneteenth participants could share in the spirit and aromas that their ancestors - the newly emancipated African Americans, would have experienced during their ceremonies. Hence, the barbecue pit is often established as the center of attention at Juneteenth celebrations.

Food was abundant because everyone prepared a special dish. Meats such as lamb, pork and beef which were not available everyday were brought on this special occasion. A true Juneteenth celebrations left visitors well satisfied and with enough conversation to last until the next.

Dress was also an important element in early Juneteenth customs and is often still taken seriously, particularly by the direct descendants who can make the connection to this tradition's roots. During slavery there were laws on the books in many areas that prohibited or limited the dressing of the enslaved. During the initial days of the emancipation celebrations, there are accounts of former slaves tossing their ragged garments into the creeks and rivers and adorning themselves with clothing taken from the plantations belonging to their former 'masters'.

Juneteenth and Society

In the early years, little interest existed outside the African American community in participation in the celebrations. In some cases, there was outwardly exhibited resistance by barring the use of public property for the festivities. Most of the festivities found themselves out in rural areas around rivers and creeks that could provide for additional activities such as fishing, horseback riding and barbecues. Often church grounds were the site for such activities. Eventually, as African Americans became land owners, land was donated and dedicated for these festivities. One of the earliest documented land purchases in the name of Juneteenth was organized by Rev. Jack Yates. This fund-raising effort yielded $1000 and made possible the purchase of Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas. In Mexia, the local Juneteenth organization purchased Booker T. Washington Park, which had become the Juneteenth celebration site in 1898. There are accounts of Juneteenth activities being interrupted and halted by white landowners demanding that their laborers return to work. However, it seems most allowed their workers the day off and some even made donations of food and money. For decades these annual celebrations flourished, growing continuously with each passing year. In Booker T. Washington Park, as many as 20,000 African Americans once attended during the course of a week, making the celebration one of the state’s largest.

Juneteenth Celebrations Decline

Economic and cultural forces led to a decline in Juneteenth activities and participants beginning in the early 1900’s. Classroom and textbook education in lieu of traditional home and family-taught practices stifled the interest of the youth due to less emphasis and detail on the lives of former slaves. Classroom textbooks proclaimed Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation of January 1, 1863 as the date signaling the ending of slavery - and mentioned little or nothing of the impact of General Granger’s arrival on June 19th.

The Depression forced many people off the farms and into the cities to find work. In these urban environments, employers were less eager to grant leaves to celebrate this date. Thus, unless June 19th fell on a weekend or holiday, there were very few participants available. July 4th was already the established Independence holiday and a rise in patriotism steered more toward this celebration.

Resurgence

The Civil Rights movement of the 50’s and 60’s yielded both positive and negative results for the Juneteenth celebrations. While it pulled many of the African American youth away and into the struggle for racial equality, many linked these struggles to the historical struggles of their ancestors. This was evidenced by student demonstrators involved in the Atlanta civil rights campaign in the early 1960’s, who wore Juneteenth freedom buttons. Again in 1968, Juneteenth received another strong resurgence through the Poor Peoples March to Washington D.C. Rev. Ralph Abernathy’s call for people of all races, creeds, economic levels and professions to come to Washington to show support for the poor. Many of these attendees returned home and initiated Juneteenth celebrations in areas previously absent of such activities. In fact, two of the largest Juneteenth celebrations founded after this March are now held in Milwaukee and Minneapolis.

Texas Blazes the Trail

On January 1, 1980, Juneteenth became an official state holiday through the efforts of Al Edwards, an African American state legislator. The successful passage of this bill marked Juneteenth as the first emancipation celebration granted official state recognition.  Edwards has since actively sought to spread the observance of Juneteenth all across America.

Juneteenth In Modern Times

Today, Juneteenth is enjoying a phenomenal growth rate within communities and organizations throughout the country. Institutions such as the Smithsonian, the Henry Ford Museum and others have begun sponsoring Juneteenth-centered activities. In recent years, a number of local and national Juneteenth organizations have arisen to take their place along side older organizations - all with the mission to promote and cultivate knowledge and appreciation of African American history and culture.

Juneteenth today, celebrates African American freedom and achievement, while encouraging continuous self-development and respect for all cultures. As it takes on a more national, symbolic and even global perspective, the events of 1865 in Texas are not forgotten, for all of the roots tie back to this fertile soil from which a national day of pride is growing.

The future of Juneteenth looks bright as the number of cities and states creating Juneteenth committees continues to increase. Respect and appreciation for all of our differences grow out of exposure and working together. Getting involved and supporting Juneteenth celebrations creates new bonds of friendship and understanding among us. This indeed brightens our future - and that is the Spirit of Juneteenth.

History of Juneteenth ©JUNETEENTH.com

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March 6, 2018, Eugene, OR

Pictures

This was my first time going to a show at this venue, which is to be expected since it was my first time being in Eugene at all. It was all right--smallish, which can be nice.

The initial banter when they first came on stage was also about the venue. Flans said that because they've been touring for 30+ years he always has trepidation when saying they've never played somewhere before, but he was pretty sure they'd never played here before. He said they had played in Eugene before, but the last time they did they were touring in an Econoline van. He said they did a college show and were "doing eightballs of cocaine and heroin."

They once again opened with "Pencil Rain," followed by "I Palindrome I," both of which were cool to see again. Then John picked up the contra-alto clarinet, and Flans said they wanted to remind people that the show was going to be featuring it. John: "'Remind' is a strong word. Notify." Then Flans informed us that it was not the contra-alto clarinet that could be seen on signs put up by the local high school saying one was missing.

JF: We don't even know that custodian! JL: I did take one of the pull-tabs with the phone number to say that I don't know where it went.

Then Flans said the thing again about how they'd be playing two sets, and we should treat them like an opener and hold our applause till the second set. "Talk to your friends about how we're like They Might Be Giants but not as good."

Then he said the thing he also keeps saying that makes me so sad about how they'd be playing new songs and we should just pretend we like them. Then he said Joe Franklin had told them "It's all about sincerity, and if you can fake that, you can do anything." Then they played "All Time What" and then "Damn Good Times" (both fantastic as per usual).

Then they were starting to play "James K. Polk," and John was talking during the intro. He said that on the album he mispronounced the name of this state. "But I'm here to make amends. That's why we're here." He pronounced it correctly as he sang (like he normally does, so it was only notable because of him calling attention to it) and people cheered. Afterwards Flans said, "Well played. They were buying it." John said again that he said it wrong on the album, and then said it the incorrect way, and people booed. "Yes, let's let the dirty laundry air." Flans said that when people ask them how to get to Houston St. (pronouncing it like the name of my hometown and not the name of the street in Manhattan) they just tell them where it is, and John said they give them directions to Texas. Then Flans said that's a New York joke that doesn't really work here.

Flans asked John how his day was, and he said he went to a coffee shop that he couldn't remember the name of. Flans said he went to a bagel shop where the wifi password was "bagelbagelbagel," and John said he would've guessed only two "bagel"s. Then Flans said he'd tried to go to some shoe store called Shoeaholic but he got there just as they were closing, and that he'd wanted to beg them to let him in by telling them "I've hit my rock bottom." John: "I think you've bought enough shoes, John Flansburgh."

Then Flans said they were about to play two songs from their new album, and that before the show they'd been "doing shots of truth serum" and so he could tell us that it's "so much better than it has to be." Then he said this is their 20th album, and when they were making their 18th they'd looked at the list of other bands' 18th albums on Wikipedia and found a surprising number of good ones, but he thinks this one stand alone as the only quality 20th album.

The two new songs they played were "Mrs. Bluebeard" and "I Left My Body," both of which were great (I suppose at this point I don't even need to note the fact that John did mess up the lyrics on the former though).

After "Your Racist Friend," Flans said that he wants to "dedicate my performance to the people standing directly next to my amp. I have a lot of dreams, and one of my dreams is to never have to stand directly next to my amp. I don't want to leave a permanent memory on your left ear. And I noticed you were having a conversation, which seems impossible. I'm making a dedication to long-term hearing loss."

Then Flans was introducing Curt, who was standing at the back of the stage. John said it makes him feel self-conscious when people are standing behind him, cos it feels like they're looking at his hands as he plays his keyboard. "Am I folding my thumb under the right way? Is my total ignorance of technique that obvious? The answer is yes." (Awwwww John, I'm sure you're fine darling!)

Next they played "Turn Around," YES YES YES. There was some quality JL spazziness adding to the usual amazingness of the song.

Next they did "Spy." During the part where they were just playing the song normally (before the improv section I mean) John kept lifting one arm up into the air after he played something--I'm not really sure why, but it was cool. He played the "Here Comes Santa Claus" sample during the improv part when he was conducting again.

Afterwards, Flans was complimenting how well we did the part of the song where he directed us to cheer. "That was nimble. Sometimes it's like directing a dinosaur in hospice. That was delicious."

Flans introduced "When the Lights Come On" by saying it's "relentless," which is a good description. He also reminded us that "Dan Miller's fingers never leave his hands." The song was rockin' and terrific as usual.

Afterwards, people were smoking pot (annoying me as it always does, not because I have any problem with pot in itself but I just hate the smell). Flans: "The pot smell begins. And once the pot smell begins it will never end." He said it smelled like cheap pot, and "this is the HiFi. There are standards." Then he told that one story that's immortalized in the one TMBG Unlimited recording, about how there was a time when they kept smelling cheap pot at their shows but then one member of their crew left and they suddenly stopped smelling it.

Then he said that it reminded him of the next song, and he wanted John to introduce it. He asked John something about making a Laugh-In reference and John said he didn't want to. Then he said that they're older than the rest of the band and they've gotten into fights with them about whether Laugh-In was funny, and that it's like being a parent and defending something you don't really believe. Flans said that it was like saying George W. Bush wasn't really that bad, and that he was, it was just easy to forget, like a scar on your hand is easy to forget. Then John said that he did remember the Laugh-In reference he was supposed to make. Flans: "Jesus christ! Show business professional!" John said he was just confused from all the pot smoke, and he was struggling to find oxygen molecules. Then he said the next song was from a TV show that was on before Laugh-In. The song was "The Mesopotamians" (as expected, since I'd seen him do this joke before).

Before they played "This Microphone," Flans was talking about the percussion thing Marty plays during it that looks like an orange. He said that it was a real orange, and Marty had lanced it with a drumstick and replaced the pulp with magic beads.

Afterwards Flans said that for being a sold-out show in a small venue it was surprisingly comfortable, and that usually at this point in such a show they were puddles on the floor begging for the A/C. John said some people want to see that, and Flans said they were trying to change their reputation of just being puddles.

They once again closed out the first set with "Hey, Mr. DJ, I Thought You Said We Had a Deal" into "Birdhouse in Your Soul." TOO MUCH ROCKIN'. I CAN'T HANDLE IT. No seriously it is an amazing way for them to end the set, but I'm not kidding about all the excited boppin' around and really really enthusiastic singing along I can't stop myself from doing on both those songs having an intense physical effect on me. I guess I should just be grateful I then got the whole between-sets break to recover.

So then after the break they came back for the Quiet Storm, opening with the contra-alto version of "Older" as per usual. Afterwards, Flans said that even though this was an acoustic set Marty had "opted in with the limitless noise potential of the electronic drums." Then he made him play whatever that bit of that Phil Collins song he keeps making him play is.

After that they played "I Like Fun," then Flans started to introduce "Tippecanoe and Tyler Too." He said the hostility of the song is "comforting," because it means people being that way now isn't new, and that things suck right now, but they will get better.

Before "Shoehorn with Teeth," Flans said that Marty was "abandoning his electronic drums manifesto of the last five minutes and returning to his vaudeville roots." He also said that the bell Marty was playing came from the same high school that had put up the signs for the missing contra-alto clarinet.

Then something really funny happened. Flans said John should move over cos he wasn't in the light enough (which he wasn't). John said it's hard to light him when he has his accordion on, because it creates shadows on him. Flans: "The accordion is like Dracula." Then some girl (not me, I swear!) yelled "IT'S SEXY" and John said "No it isn't," which was the part that amused the hell out of me because of course he was DEAD WRONG. Then he said "But thank you for saying that" but did not exactly seem sincere--I think he was rather uncomfortable honestly so that made me feel bad for him, but yeh I was still really amused. But I did also have this feeling of wishing it hadn't happened at a show I was at because I figured anyone who knew about it and knew I was there would figure it was me and I would never do that (I had the same feeling a time I was at a different show and some girl threw her bra at him).

So then they played "A Self Called Nowhere" and y'know, the usual--really really intense and emotional for me, the best part of the show, etc etc.

Flans introduced "How Can I Sing Like a Girl?" by saying it was "about being in chorus."

Next they did "Istanbul." During the crazy jam part at the end, John spent some time playing (using the word "playing" loosely here) his keyboard with both his fists and also with both his hands entirely vertical.

Flans introduced "Bills, Bills, Bills" by explaining how the AV Club Undercover thing works. He said that they'd given them a list of songs "that should never be recorded or even talked about again." He said they'd first done "Tubthumping" but they weren't going to play that tonight. "It's too exciting. It's too exciting for our crew. It makes them burst into tears." Then he said after that they'd covered a Destiny's Child song, which forced them to grapple with the fact that Destiny's Child is a much more popular band than they are. He said they'd considered becoming a band whose entire act was just performing this one single Destiny's Child cover. Then he said they were going to keep performing this song both cos they'd taken the trouble to memorize it and cos it always spreads joy.

So they played that one and then "Particle Man." Then:

JL: We spent our formative years in the greater Boston area. JF: I don't know if you've ever played lacrosse. I've had lacrosse played at me. JL: You've been played by lacrosse. JF: Lacrosse is like it's the end of days and civilization has broken down, and there's still an organized way of killing people. That's basically what lacrosse is like. JL: That's basically what the greater Boston area is like.

So then they of course played "Wicked Little Critta" [insert swooning over all the video closeups of John's hands on the Kaoss Pad and his keyboard here], then "New York City." Afterwards, some guy yelled "THEY MUST BE GIANTS!" Flans was amused--he repeated it and thanked him for saying it. Then he said that sometimes when shows are ending they're getting ready to leave and they'll hear the owner of the club come over the PA and ask everyone to give another hand for "Ain't They Giants," and they realize he cares less than anyone else there.

They closed the main set with a run of familiar but still always very fun songs: "Number Three," "Twisting," and "Doctor Worm."

When they came back for the first encore, John said they'd come back sooner than it had taken them this time. Then he said that next they were going to play a quiet song, and it was "inappropriate because everyone is all hopped up." The song they played was "Dead," which I was most certainly not going to complain about seeing, quiet or not!

I was hoping they were going to play "Don't Let's Start" next since that was the second encore song for almost all the shows I'd seen so far, but instead it was "Fingertips," which I know is always a big hit live, I've just seen it many, many more times than I've seen "Don't Let's Start" so yeh not as exciting for me at this point.

They closed the show with "The Guitar," which is definitely one of the all-time best show closers!

So yeh great show overall, and I had some personal excitement afterwards too--Marty gave me a setlist!!! This was my first time managing to snag one in an exceptionally long time. I also managed to get the show poster that had been hanging in the venue's front window, which also rarely happens and featured one of the new promo pictures I'm quite fond of, so that was also thrilling!

The all-important JL wardrobe report: For the first set he was wearing the same black long-sleeved shirt he wore the previous two nights (he always wears the same things over and over, but the same shirt three nights in a row is a bit much even for him), and then for the second set he was wearing that red-and-blue stripey t-shirt he really loves, which made me happy because I really love it too and think it looks fantastic on him.

[mitchrusso1-blog]

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