Get Involved: Globe At Night, Lectures, California Academy of Sciences

There is always something to do if you are interested in getting a bit more involved in astronomy. Right now, you can learn at a lecture, attend a star party, or take part in a global project to record light pollution while learning about new constellations. Read on for details.

Here in San Francisco, the California Academy of Sciences hosts a lecture series on astronomy topics. The Dean Lecture Series features talks on some of the most riveting subjects in astronomy, and Monday April 4th is the next talk, presented by Joel Primack and Nancy Ellen Abrams, focuses on the most modern research in cosmology, that of Dark Matter and Dark Energy.

The California Academy of Sciences also has a fun event every Thursday night with its "NightLife" series, transforming the museum into a fun party. Each week has a theme, and next Thursday April 7th is Yuri's Night, an annual celebration of the first man in space. If the skies are clear, you can find me on the Living Roof giving star tours alongside the docents of the museum showing off planets, nebulae and the Moon through telescopes.

If you don't live in San Francisco, visit the Night Sky Network website to find lectures and astronomy clubs in your area.

The Globe At Night project is now in the second phase, inviting Citizen Scientists around the world to support the effort to raise awareness of light pollution, learn about the night sky in your neighborhood, and pay attention to details of the constellation Leo the Lion. Take part - it only requires a few minutes and is an eye-opening experience.

Teaching kids how to make and keep friends

Kids who know how to make friends tend to be happier throughout their lives. Research shows that children can learn the skills they need to make and keep friends. Some kids need more help than others learning these skills.

First, teach your child to use common courtesy. Kids who have a lot of friends are thoughtful of others. They say things like “Excuse me” or “Thanks” a lot.

Kids who make friends easily are also willing to cooperate with others. If other children are playing a game, they are willing to join in and follow the same game rules. They don’t always have to get their own way.

As a parent, you can serve as a role model for your child. Let him see you spending time with your friends. If you are helping a friend, say’ “Friends help each other when they need it.”

You can also help your child learn to consider his or her friend’s opinions, likes and dislikes. You might say, “What is Tom’s favorite subject in school?”

Help your child learn how to disagree with someone while still respecting them. You do that when you calmly correct your child. You do it when you insist that your children talk about their disagreements, too.

For more information on helping children to develop friendships download: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/FY/FY54500.pdf.

"Fitness Model of the week"

Miss Kysha Laguerre

This young lady I have had the pleasure of working with many times throughout the last year. A Brooklyn native, born and raised, she and her family originate from the islands of Jamaica with an additional English Descent. She began her modeling career at the age of 13 and has not looked back since. Her first fashion show was at St. Johns University and she was very excited to hit the runway. That was just a start. Once getting the butterflies out of her system, she began to attend more local shows in the New York area and gracing multiple university shows with her presence. During her career as a Runway/Print/Fitness Model, Kysha has walk for designers such as Thomas Lavonne Woodard, Yard Rock Clothing, Royal Rush, Michi Knitwear, Melyssa Nycole Couture, Knit Heru, Leonche, Kirette Couture, Charlene Amankwahm, Princess Elizabeth, Dmarsh Couture, Emigee Couture, and  many more. .  Along with walking for designers, she has also worked along side with the designers of African Fashion Week and Providence Fashion Week. Currently at the young age of 19, Kysha has accomplished quite a bit in her modeling career, and still has much more to achieve. Educated, athletic, stylish, and determined, are some of the best ways to describe this young lady. Be sure to keep an eye out for her in your next show. 

Crazy Core Concepts

Pleasant Family Meals

If you’re frustrated because your family members are headed in different directions at meal times, you’re not alone. In fact, recent research published by the American Medical Association said that less than half of children 9 – 14 years old reported having dinner with family members every day and almost 20% said they never had dinner with family members.


Most families find it increasingly difficult to sit down together over a meal. Demanding work schedules, band or softball practice and evening study dates can take up so much of everyone’s time.

But eating together plays big dividends for both parents and their children. According to Dr. Linda Bobroff at the University of Florida, shared family meals not only contribute to a healthful diet, they give children a sense of belonging, which is so critical in our world today.

There are several ways parents can ensure that the mealtimes are pleasant and relaxing. First, make a family agreement that mealtimes are for pleasant conversation. Hold discussions about difficult topics such as a child’s poor grade or marital problems for another time. Second, get rid of distractions. Turn off the television and cell phones, and let the answering machine take telephone messages during the meal.

Encourage discussion by asking each family member what he or she liked best during the day. Give each person, even the youngest, a chance to contribute to the conversation with everyone paying attention.

What a nice change from the fast food line and what a great time to spend together as a family!

When to introduce solid food to baby

If you've ever been responsible for feeding an infant, you'd probably recall the struggle to know when was the right time to start feeding the baby solid foods. I remember both my mother and mother-in-law urging me not only to start my baby on formula, but to also put a little cereal in that formula, certain that my baby couldn't possibly be getting enough to eat. Apparently, this is common, although not so wise, counsel.


According to experts, most babies aren't ready for solid food until between four to six months of age. Some of the benchmarks to look for before starting babies on solids is that they can sit up, they drool when they're hungry, they open their mouth when they see a spoon approaching and they don't push the spoon out with their tongue. At this point, the baby is ready for infant rice cereal mixed with breast milk or formula, and it should be soupy at first.

Once babies have grown accustomed to cereal, at about six to seven months of age, you can start adding other foods to their diet, but…one at a time! According to Linda Bobroff at the University of Florida, you need to wait two to three days between new foods in order to watch for signs of an allergic reaction. Signs of allergies can include stomachache, diarrhea, skin rash, or wheezing.

Two other taboos to be aware of regard honey and juice. Never feed a baby honey, as it can cause botulism poisoning in babies under a year old, and never put juice in a bottle. The bottle should be reserved for water, breast milk, or formula. Too much juice will spoil babies' appetites for other foods they need.

My Movie Poster Collection: The Autographed Ones

I've never been one for autographs, UNLESS said autographs rest upon a movie poster, in which case I'm freakin' in! This is my small collection of signed posters, accompanied by my comments. Many thanks go out to estimable Tim O'Donnell for taking the photos!

2001: A Space Odyssey (Stanley Kubrick, 68); signed by Keir Dullea.

I met Keir Dullea at a screening of Otto Preminger's Bunny Lake Is

My Movie Poster Collection: The Autographed Ones

I've never been one for autographs, UNLESS said autographs rest upon a movie poster, in which case I'm freakin' in! This is my small collection of signed posters, accompanied by my comments. Many thanks go out to estimable Tim O'Donnell for taking the photos!

2001: A Space Odyssey (Stanley Kubrick, 68); signed by Keir Dullea.

I met Keir Dullea at a screening of Otto Preminger's Bunny Lake Is

"Arm fat aka The Wings"

OK, Lets talk about one of the other trouble spots for most woman. The dreaded arm fat that is around the bicep/tricep and goes up to the shoulder. Some refer to it as Arm Fat, Flaps, Wings, Bat Wings, Bingo Wings, Sails…etc. This an embarrassing problem to most woman and tends to be a frustrating one at that. Well stress no more. Below you will find tips on how to get rid of the dreaded arm flaps the healthy way. Notice I said the “Healthy Way”. 

First thing to do is recognize the problem and what muscles are involved. The problem area is the Tricep brachii or the Tricep. It is comprised of three muscles that join together at the elbow. A lot of people believe if they do bicep curls, that will do the trick. But like I have stated in my previous blog entry, “Golden Arms”, the way to build up the arm is work the Tricep, not just the Bicep. Remember,  that’s three muscles to two and they cover more area then the bicep. So building some good lean muscle in the Tricep will help remedy this.

Here are some things to help you:

1. Running/Jogging…This is a great way to burn calories. Keeps you lean , tones, and also builds your core muscles. People fail to realize that.
2. Your Diet: You want to focus on three things…Low Fat, Low Carbs, and Low Sugar. That will make the world of a difference in your training. Remember, you have to burn more calories then you are taking in to lose weight and tone.
3. Control your portion sizes…Instead of 2 really large meals or even 3 large meals. Do 5 to 6 small meals. This will help regulate your metabolism and keep it steady. Once it is under control, then you can pick up the pace. Consistency is the key.
4. Veggies…Get them in. They play a vital part in your health.
5. Cut out the fast food….Fast food is the devil, just like Facebook. LOL. No, but fast food is full of unwanted calories, processed junk, and tons of grease. This is not conducive to your workouts.

WORKOUT TIME!

These 4 drills will help you along the way. 

Push ups - You can never go wrong here. 

Tricep Cable Press downs. Always a great way to target the Tri's. 

 Single Arm Overhead Extensions.

Double arm Tricep Extension (on a bench)

Crazy Core Concepts

There's nothing to do!

A child who is old enough to verbalize that “There’s nothing to do” is old enough and capable of thinking about how to solve this problem. While it may be tempting to come up with a solution, it’s not our job, as parents to entertain them 24 hours a day. Our job is to teach them how to entertain themselves.

Children may be able to creatively resolve this problem, if we give them the opportunity. This means resisting the urge to jump in and do their thinking for them. Here are some ideas:

• Validate and respect the child’s feelings first, rather than encouraging them to find something to do. “Sounds like you’re getting bored.” Or “Perhaps you’ve watched enough TV, huh?”

• Offer to help, such as “Is there something that you need from me?” “Let me know if there’s something I can do.” Continue to do what you were doing, though, or get busy with something you want to do.

• Invite the child to think. “What would you like to do?” or “Tell me two things that sound good to do right now.”

• Give permission to do nothing - unless that’s exactly what your child has been doing all day. “You certainly deserve a break.” “It’s okay to do nothing for a few minutes. Would you like to spend some time with me?”

• When all else fails, and you’re child continues to complain that there’s nothing to do, come up some well-thought-out ideas, such as organizing a kitchen cupboard or sweeping the sidewalk. I was always happy to hand my child the Chore Jar or my To Do List and ask for help. Sometimes I was pleasantly surprised when they were actually bored enough to help me out!

Group dating for young people

Many middle-schoolers and pre-teens begin their “dating” rituals with requests to participate in group activities with someone they are “interested” in. These activities involve going to movies together, hanging out at the mall, going to football games and dances, playing video games, etc.

Many of these young “couples” still don’t spend a great deal of time together and many of these relationships are emotionally unsophisticated and short-lived. As a parent of three girls, I can say “Thank goodness for that!”

Parents shouldn’t be paranoid about allowing some of these gatherings to happen. However, good supervision should always be in place. Know where your child will be and who else will be there. Get to know the parents of the children in these groups if you don’t already. Get to know the child your child is interested in – even if he or she tells you that’s not a cool thing to do.

For the younger pre-teens, always be sure there is a chaperone or responsible adult at or near the group activity, such as shopping at the same mall, sitting at a different but accessible location at the same movie, etc. Have predictable rules and guidelines for “going out,” such as curfews, policies for where they are allowed to go and what they are allowed to do.

Many group dating activities can be useful in helping your child to develop important social and relationship skills before there is the pressure and desire to spend a lot of time alone together. Facilitate these opportunities by making suggestions for acceptable places to go or offering to drive - even if your child gets embarrassed when you talk to his friends in the car – as though you don’t have a single brain cell in your head!

Pre-teens should not be encouraged to participate in one-on-one dating. They are generally too young to fully understand the potential consequences of giving in to the pull of their curiosity and/or their biology.

The Five Best Recent Trailers

This is saying a lot, since trailers blow these days. Hell, I've been waiting literally TWO DECADES for movie previews to change. Finally, there's a glint of light on the horizon. Each of these pieces signal inventive new voices in movie marketing--SMART voices, finally:

Intriguing. THE TREE OF LIFE (Terrence Malick, 2011)

Chilling. RED STATE (Kevin Smith, 2011)

Moving. BLUE VALENTINE (

The Five Best Recent Trailers

This is saying a lot, since trailers blow these days. Hell, I've been waiting literally TWO DECADES for movie previews to change. Finally, there's a glint of light on the horizon. Each of these pieces signal inventive new voices in movie marketing--SMART voices, finally:

Intriguing. THE TREE OF LIFE (Terrence Malick, 2011)

Chilling. RED STATE (Kevin Smith, 2011)

Moving. BLUE VALENTINE (

Each day is a new account

If you had a bank that credited your account each morning with $86,400.00; carried over no balance from day to day; allowed you to keep no cash in your account; and every evening canceled whatever part of the amount you had failed to use; what would you do?

Draw out every cent, every day, of course, and use it to your advantage!

You do have such a bank – it’s called TIME. Every morning, it credits you with 86,400 seconds. Every night, it writes off as lost whatever of this you failed to invest to a good purpose.

Time carries over no balance. It allows no overdrafts. Each day, it opens a new account for you. Each night, it burns the records of the day. If you fail to use the day’s deposits, the loss is yours. There is no going back. There is no drawing against the “tomorrow.”

Our seconds as parents can be thought of in the same way. At the end of every day, have we used every moment well? Do our children know they come first and always will?

Sometimes we encounter obstacles as parents that seem insurmountable. This is especially true when our children become adolescents. We can feel “stuck” like a car in the mud with its wheels spinning. Stuck is seeing few or no alternatives for our current situation and relationship with our child.

The key to becoming unstuck and to take advantage of every moment of every day as a parent is to take a parenting class. The Hillsborough County/University of Florida Extension Service conducts parenting classes each month. For more information go to: http://urlmin.com/HillsboroughParenting.

Vernal Equinox, Super Full Moon, and other astronomical musings

I enjoy sharing highlights of the sky with friends and have been blogging for several years now, pointing out events of astronomical interest here as The Urban Astronomer. I was surprised to see the excitement and questions about the Super Full Moon, the coincidence of nature that is leading to a full moon at perigee today. The fact that the general public is being scared into thinking something bad is about to happen is unfortunate, but the fact that people will be out tonight looking at the full moon is the good outcome that I wish for. Of course, there is absolutely nothing to be worried about. Every 29 days the Moon swings a bit closer to the Earth than other times of the month, and that pattern of perigee and apogee, full and new, repeats in a beautiful "super pattern" every 18 years, something now known (but likely not fully understood) by the many who are reading about the Super Full Moon being the biggest one in 18 years.

There are numerous patterns and cycles in the heavens. Tomorrow, March 20th, is the Vernal Equinox, the semi-annual moment when the length of the day is exactly 12 hours everyone on Earth. I like that dynamic, a twice-a-year event in which we are all given equal periods of sun above the horizon and below the horizon, regardless of your latitude, regardless of whether you are in the Northern or Southern Hemisphere. That is a moment of beauty in the grand annual rhythms of our home planet.

The pattern of lunar repetition that lasts for just longer than 18 years is also responsible for the cycle of lunar and solar eclipses that take place around the world. I witnessed a total solar eclipse in Europe in July 1999, and the celestial dynamics of that eclipse will exactly repeat in August 2017 when a wonderful total solar eclipse will sweep across the United States. For me, it will be a rare chance to be standing in the shadow of the Moon on the second passing of this particular alignment of Moon, Earth and Sun, one that will be far more dramatic and meaningful to me than any particular Super Full Moon you might encounter between now and then. But in the end, if you can find some meaning and solace looking up at the Moon tonight, savor the moment and mark your calendar for April 2029 when the conditions will align themselves and present you with a chance to relive this magic moment when you saw a particularly big and impressive full moon. That is something worth pondering, and the rest of the media hype you are hearing right now should be simply ignored.

Image courtesy NASA.

Talking with your Toddler

One of the most important things that your child must learn is how to talk. On average, a child will say his or her first word at 12 months of age, and may start speaking anywhere from 8–18 months of age. Between 18 months and 2 years, your toddler will speak in two-word “sentences.” By the time your child reaches 3 years, he will have a large vocabulary; and by age 6, he will know about 10,000 words.


Your child's language skills show how well his or her brain and thought processes are developing. Children also develop emotionally and build social skills through conversation. In fact, early language skills help children to adjust more easily to difficult circumstances. Toddlers with advanced language development are more likely to do well socially, academically, and behaviorally in later childhood.

How and when your child's language develops depends on the circumstance. For example, girls' vocabulary grows faster than boys'. Cautious toddlers who are more reserved may take more time to understand words before they begin to speak. Also, mothers and fathers may influence their children’s learning of language differently; when fathers talk with young children they are more likely to give directions, ask them “who, what, where, why, and when” questions for clarification, use imperatives, and refer to past events than mothers. These behaviors are likely to challenge children’s language development.

There are many ways you can help your child learn to talk. This can be done by finding natural opportunities in everyday situations to encourage communication. Here are a couple of suggestions to help your child's language skills to develop.

• From the moment your child is born, talk to your baby. You can call the child's name, and sing to him or her.

• Use “child-directed speech” (CDS). CDS involves speaking in a high-pitched voice, using short sentences, pausing between phrases, annunciating clearly, using expressive emotional tones, and repeating new words in different contexts.

• Talk to your baby during daily routines such as when you cuddle, feed, or change his or her diaper.

• Repeat the noises your baby makes, and encourage him or her to imitate the sounds you make.

• Call your baby's name often. Remember to point out objects to the baby and call them by name. Say to the baby, "See the chair; see the bird; see the truck."

• Refer to what you're doing during daily activities. For example, say, “It's time to change your diaper” or “We're eating breakfast.”

• Remember, your baby has to learn the names of as many objects, routines, actions, and emotions as possible. When your baby becomes a toddler, teach him or her names of emotions they feel. “You're angry because we can't play now. It's time for bed.” “I know the doggie scared you. The dog went outside.”

• When your child begins to talk, listen to him or her. Avoid correcting or using phrases like, "It's NOT 'goed', it's 'went'!” Instead, simply repeat what the child said, pronouncing the words correctly and using the correct grammar. Children make natural mistakes when they are learning grammar (such as putting “-ed” endings on all verbs in the past tense). They will learn the exceptions to the rules when they are ready and taught with patience.

• Avoid asking your child yes-or-no questions. For example, instead ask, “Do you want milk or juice?” In this way, your child can answer using names of the object or activity they choose.

• Help your child learn new words every day. Soon, s/he or she will begin to ask questions about objects (“What?”).

• Your child will also ask about cause and effect (“Why?”). Do not ignore his or her questions—instead, try to answer them. If you do not know the answers, tell your child that you do not know. Share the answers that you do know using simple words or a cause-and-effect explanation.

If you want your children to talk with you when they are older, remember to talk with them when they are young. Conversations are an important part of quality parent-child relationships. Warm communication that encourages your child's cognitive, social, and emotional skills lasts a lifetime.

High Fructose Corn Syrup

One of the main concerns people have with HFCS is whether or not it causes obesity. This question was raised after a 2004 article in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggested the sweetener might cause weight gain. More recent evidence indicates that HFCS has the same effect on body weight as sucrose. Essentially, excess calories from any sweetener (or any food) can cause weight gain. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2005, recommends decreasing the consumption of added sugars, which includes HFCS and sucrose as well as other forms of sugar. Eating a variety of healthier foods like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, low-fat and fat-free milk products, and lean meats and beans, combined with adequate physical activity is the best way to prevent obesity and maintain a healthy weight.


More research is needed to determine whether or not there is an association between HFCS and other chronic diseases. Currently, the main concern seems to be the effect that excess fructose consumption may have on the body. Although HFCS does contain fructose, its chemical composition is similar to sucrose (table sugar) and it is metabolized by the body the same way.

Many United States farmers produce subsidized (government funded) crops such as wheat, soybean, and/or corn. At least in part due to the subsidies, foods that contain HFCS such as prepackaged and processed foods are available at low cost. Since price is often a deciding factor when shopping, especially for those with limited resources, the lower cost of foods that contain HFCS may result in purchasing more highly processed, low nutrient-dense foods. Some health advocates suggest that limiting the incentives for producing corn used to make HFCS might increase the production of other crops such as fruits, vegetables, and grains, which would make them more available and perhaps more affordable.

The important message that should be conveyed to consumers is that the source of the added sugar should not be the main concern. It doesn't matter if the sugar comes from sucrose, honey, or HFCS. Instead consumers should watch their total calories and work on making sure they don't exceed their recommendations. HFCS along with other sweeteners should be consumed in moderation to avoid weight gain and the associated health problems.

Hitchcock Reexamined, All At Once

I was alerted to this TRULY amazing bit of cinema academia via movie geek extraordinaire Ron Salvatore on Facebook. Here, courtesy of the fantastically talented ultraculture, we have 30 murder scenes from the films of Alfred Hitchcock, all synched up perfectly (and all climaxing with the requisite death knells). Their sound, images and especially their editing rhythms clash wonderfully on one

Hitchcock Reexamined, All At Once

I was alerted to this TRULY amazing bit of cinema academia via movie geek extraordinaire Ron Salvatore on Facebook. Here, courtesy of the fantastically talented ultraculture, we have 30 murder scenes from the films of Alfred Hitchcock, all synched up perfectly (and all climaxing with the requisite death knells). Their sound, images and especially their editing rhythms clash wonderfully on one

Teen's Developmental Tasks

As your children enter into their teen years, they begin a physical and emotional journey that will bring them into adulthood and parents can play an important role in helping them establish who they are. Teenagers begin to interact with each other in more adult ways as they mature.


Experts at the University of Florida say this is linked to physical development, and that peer groups may change during the teen years as they grow at different rates. While their bodies are changing, teens also are learning to accept their appearance and not feel pressured into the perfect body image.

Sexual maturity also occurs during the teen years. Teens begin to define what it means to be male or female, though most confirm to society’s definitions of gender. UF researchers say teens often confuse sexual feelings with intimacy, and most do not get into long-term relationships until later years.

Another teen process many of us are familiar with is establishing independence from parents and other adults. During these years, teens learn to rely on themselves. Although many American do not gain economic independence until after schooling, it’s during the teen years that they begin to consider careers and financial independence.

Teens also begin to determine their own values and beliefs, although research shows these are usually based on their parent’s values and beliefs. They also begin to work towards socially responsible behavior, such as employment or marriage.

So while parents may feel overwhelmed by the tide of what feels like counter assaults on what they’ve taught their children, it’s important to remember they still have tremendous influence on their teens.

Cinema Gallery: 200 MORE Movie Images: DARKNESS (Part 3 of 5)

I have to admit: I love a blackened frame. These are some of my favorite hard-to-see moments from movies. I think I love the dark on film because that's where we can catch the most abstract images, if only for a brief moment. By the way, I just want to be clear: these are actual frame grabs and, in that way, they are completely unique. I say this only because these image-only posts of mine

Cinema Gallery: 200 MORE Movie Images: DARKNESS (Part 3 of 5)

I have to admit: I love a blackened frame. These are some of my favorite hard-to-see moments from movies. I think I love the dark on film because that's where we can catch the most abstract images, if only for a brief moment. By the way, I just want to be clear: these are actual frame grabs and, in that way, they are completely unique. I say this only because these image-only posts of mine

"Fitness Model of the Week"

Lourdes Gonzalez

A little bit about my Lourdes...Known to most as Lou or Lou Lout Stars. In the gaming community, thats right fellas she is a gamer, her nickname is MoneyMakinlou. Step up to her on Call of Duty and theres a good chance she will take you out. 

Lourdes is an actress/model/athlete who hails from Queens Ny. She is a good at what she does and very focused when it comes to her monolog, photo-shoot, or workouts. I have had the pleasure of training her for the last year and let me tell you, she goes hard in the paint. But there is more to this young lady then just great looks and toughness. She is a graduate of Virginia State University (Petersburg VA) which means she is more then just looks. She is educated. Also, while at VSU, she was one of few prestiges young ladies in the country who had the privilege of calling herself a Woo-Woo. For those of you who do not know, the Woo-Woos were probably one of the most well known cheerleading squads in Colleges across the country. Absolutely famous and sought after in the CIAA. When any school in the CIAA played Virginia State, fans had one question...."Are the Woo-Woos coming". They were beautiful, talented, and very athletic. 

This young lady is also a Veteran as well. She served her country in the Army and was stationed overseas in Iraq. She worked hard there and on many occasions,  was in charge of protecting the front gate of base she was stationed at. At first glance of her you would never know. But then again, that could be were some of hard work ethics come from. 

Lou as my client....She works extremely hard when it comes to her workouts. As I give her the layout, she just nods her head and says ok. Lets do this. After going through all the formalities, catching up and joking around, its all business. When she works out she has that killer instinct and trusts in what her trainer tells her. Even though the workouts are very intense, in which they would have to be considering she is a vet, she still fights through with intensity and determination. So intense that many in the gym stand and admire, men as well. There have even been times when she has scared some people into getting out of her way. Theres nothing to fear. She is a sweetheart that just turns into a machine when its time to workout. There have been times when she was so tired that she fell asleep during the recovery periods. She snapped outta that quick though

 We have a great time with our workouts and I couldnt ask for a more focused and dedicated client. 

Heres Lou Lou getting it in with one of my ab workouts. 

Crazy Core Concepts

"The link between Green Tea and Weight Loss"

 

 

There’s recently been a LOT in the news concerning green tea and weight loss.

Green Tea. Offered at many restaurants and diners and has a very distinct taste to it. But did you know that this is one of the hidden secrets to helping the body burn fat?
When it comes to weight loss, the effects have been causing more and more people to start drinking the ancient Japanese brew. According to experts and the general consensus, about 3 – 5 cups of green tea per day is optimal. It also has the potential to help you burn an extra 70 calories per day which amounts to 7 pounds per year.

Advantages:

1) Green tea really boosts up your metabolism. Researchers have shown that over a 24-hour period, green tea extract increases the metabolic rate by 4%. These effects are probably due to the high concentrations of catechin polyphenols found in green tea.. These work to help intensify levels of fat oxidation and thermogenesis, which is the rate at which your body burns calories.
2) Green tea inhibits fat absorption and helps glucose regulation
Researchers and experts show that the catechins in green tea help to inhibit the movement of glucose into fat cells. It may also act as a glucose regulator. It helps to slow the rise in blood sugar after meals. This prevents high insulin spikes and the subsequent fat storage.
3) Green tea can help you save calories on your morning brew. Being that places like Starbucks, Duncan Donuts, etc have become so popular with your morning brews, Green tea can be a great substitute. If you want to save a significant amount of calories in the morning but still get your caffeine fix, give this a try.
Green Tea options. If 3 to 5 cups seem to be a lot in a day, you can look into green tea extract, green tea pills or a green tea patch. Either way, these can be very beneficial in your weight loss and assist with your current diet and workout.

When to get help for stress

Every day we go through stress that is just a part of life, and usually manage to deal with things ourselves and with the help of friends and family. However, major events and the losses that go with them can trigger feelings of helplessness and sadness that even the usual personal coping methods can't fix.


Many signs may indicate a need for outside help, such as physical or verbal abuse of your spouse or child. This may include yelling and calling names, criticizing, hitting, kicking, and other acts of violence. Other signs of stress are panic attacks that include a high pulse rate and breathing difficulty; feelings of depression that last more than a week, including changes in your eating or sleeping habits; inability to concentrate, numbness, or bouts of crying.

Other signs that outside help is needed include thoughts of suicide, thoughts or talk of divorce or separation and feelings of isolation.

Sometimes our families give us clues that the stress is too much. For example, children may act up at home and school. Parenting may become more difficult because you can't concentrate on your children and give them the attention and supervision they need.

Help is available from professionals who are trained to help with stress. They can provide the extra, needed support. To find professional help, talk to your family doctor, ask a trusted friend if they know a counselor, or call your local crisis center.

Fitness Modeling with Proanax Vitamines

City / State: NYC/LA

Website: @Olympictrainer - Twitter, Facebook - Shaun'multitalented' Spencer
Ethnicity: African American
Height: 6'3
Weight: 165
Measurements:

What do you do for a living? Celebrity Personal Trainer and Fitness/runway model

So how did you get started? I got started training while working as an assistant track and field coach at a High school and local university.

How many times do you work out? I workout 6 days a week and completely rest one day and eat really good.
What's your daily diet routine? As of right now I am prepping for a photo-shoot so my diet consists of a lot of protein and low carbs. I can afford to eat carbs but still want to keep it nice and cut with a body fat percentage of 6 and under.

What do you know about antioxidants? I am good deal about them and like to find them in many different forms.

What are your views about the world today building more fast food restaurants? It saddens me, because people are almost being forced into terrible eating habits. Consumers and chains need to become more health conscious with its customers instead of just feeding them what ever it is that they can cook fast. I am not a fan of fast food at all. I hate the feeling I have afterword's. Heaviness and grogginess.

What fitness tip can you give out to others? The first thing I would say is consistency and diet. You can work your butt off in the gym all day every day, but if your diet and vitamine intake  are not in line with your workout, you will have minimum results and miss out on your full potential.

Favorite website: Mens Fitness and Mens Health

Craziest place you've ever worked out at: The craziest place would be a street corner in New Work. Doing pull ups and chin ups on the construction poles next to a building.

Dream occupation: Celebrity Personal Training

Favorite thing to eat: Wild Salmon with broccoli and Sweet potatoes. With a side of multi-grain bread and some Mango juice.

Favorite thing to do on your spare time: Catch a movie or shoot some pool with my brother. I still cant beat him yet.

Favorite drink: Dole Pineapple orange banana juice.

Biggest lesson learned: A strong core is needed. I learned from a back injury years ago that took me out of professional track and field competition. My core was week so my lower back was taking the brunt of everything I did. Eventually, it gave out. So I became a core specialist after that.

What artists are in your Ipod while you work out? I have 5 artist that I put on repeat when I go through my work out. 1. Dj Khaled - Go Hard, 2. Evanescence - bring me to life, 3. 300 movei soundtrack - Just as you imagined, 4. Linkin Park - Paper cut, 5. Blade soundtrack - Final Battle


Whats your favorite sport? Track and Field.

Any words of encouragement? Yes, Working out is great but if you really want to see the results as well as the public seeing them, make sure you are taking your vitamins and keeping your diet tight. That allows your body to have the energy and strength to hold during these tough workouts. Also make sure you are getting an optimum amount of rest. Sleep is very important.

Thanks a lot Proanox for your time.

Big Pit ft TQ 'Ask About Me' - Music Video

Here is the sneak peak of the Big Pit ft TQ music video for 'Ask About Me' filmed at Spotlight UK Studios.

Keeping Baby Healthy

Babies deserve the best we can give them. As we learn to properly care for our babies both emotionally and physically, they get the healthiest start possible.


During their first twelve months, babies grow at a faster rate than at any other time. They need a high-fat diet with adequate cholesterol and carbohydrates. Breast milk provides this perfect balance, as well as essential amino acids, fluid, vitamins, and minerals. Moms who choose not to breastfeed should use iron-fortified infant formula. Breastmilk or formula is all the nourishment babies need for their first 4 to 6 months.

Begin spoon-feeding baby rice cereal when your baby is sitting up unaided without wobbling his or her head, and when he or she seems interested in food. This will occur at about four to six months of age. Once your baby is up to two or three cereal feedings, begin to introduce one new food a week, starting with mashed vegetables and fruits. Be alert for signs of allergy and report symptoms to your pediatrician right away.

Babies usually are ready for self-feeding by about eight months of age. Babies feel proud when they begin to feed themselves, but be prepared for a mess. Soon your baby will be eating table food with the rest of the family, reminding us how fast that first year goes by.

How do cohabiting couples with children spend money?

More and more couples are choosing to cohabit at least some time in their adult lives, and researchers and policy makers are looking more closely at the costs and benefits of cohabitation for couples and children. A recent study in the Journal of Marriage and Family investigated whether cohabiting couples were similar or different than other family types in the way they spend their money.

Using data from over 45,000 U.S. families who took part in the consumer expenditure survey, researchers from Michigan State University and University of Chicago found differences in financial behaviors between cohabiting parent families and other families.

Compared to married couples, those who lived together spent less on health care and education and more on housing. This may be because cohabiting couples surveyed were younger, less educated, less likely to own their own homes, and had less earned income than married couples.

In addition, cohabiting couples were more likely to spend more on alcohol and tobacco than any other family type. The researchers could not actually determine whether cohabitors drank and smoked more, or whether they just bought more expensive products. The researchers question why cohabiting parent families seem to spend more on these adult goods and less on child-related goods, such as education. Different expectations, values, and lifestyle preferences may all contribute to spending motives that may be detrimental to child wellness, a concern in the growing discussion about cohabitation and families (DeLeire & Kalis, 2005).

Jupiter and Mercury: Prograde and Retrograde Motion

Elusive Mercury makes an appearance for the coming weeks in the evening sky, slowly progressing toward Jupiter as the two planets share the same space (from our point of view) just above the setting Sun. Although Jupiter is considerably farther away from Earth as Mercury, Jupiter's massive size more than makes up for that distance and makes it appear to us as a much brighter light on the horizon.

As Mercury rapidly arrives in the evening sky, it changes its location each evening quite a bit, and before long will be aligned with Jupiter, setting around the same time as Jupiter toward the end of March. As it reaches this point, it will then change its daily direction across the evening sky and move rapidly westward toward the Sun, something called "retrograde" motion. For a few weeks, people will say that "Mercury is in Retrograde" which is, from an astronomical point of view, very normal behavior for Mercury every few months. However, for many who follow astrology, this can be a very troubling time. Perhaps seeing Mercury with your own eyes changing location and moving gracefully across the sky, first in prograde motion (the basic motion of planets across the backdrop of stars, eastward), then in retrograde, will make its impact a little more friendly. Try it out for yourself and see.

Cinema Gallery: 200 MORE Movie Images, Part 2 of 5

For my 300th post on filmicability, I present the second part of my newest Cinema Gallery collection. As always, click on the photo to see it writ large.

Punk rock arrives in American Pop. (Ralph Bakshi, 81)

One unhappy army recruitment center. Drive, He Said. (Jack Nicholson, 71)

The chilling final image from Blue Collar. (Paul Schrader, 78)

The wrecked bus is raised to the heavens

Cinema Gallery: 200 MORE Movie Images, Part 2 of 5

For my 300th post on filmicability, I present the second part of my newest Cinema Gallery collection. As always, click on the photo to see it writ large.

Punk rock arrives in American Pop. (Ralph Bakshi, 81)

One unhappy army recruitment center. Drive, He Said. (Jack Nicholson, 71)

The chilling final image from Blue Collar. (Paul Schrader, 78)

The wrecked bus is raised to the heavens

KFOG Podcast - March 4, 2011

As always, I had a good time at KFOG today talking with Morning Show co-host Irish Greg who has boundless enthusiasm for just about everything, including talking with me about all-things-astronomical. We even did some indoor stargazing (see photo) in the KFOG broadcast studio :-). Check out our podcast for the latest on what to see in the sky, and where to go to hear some excellent lectures and talks about astronomy.

"Kill Time with Killer Abs"

Alright team..Looking for something productive to do when your home and have some free time. Here is a good way to kill it and do justice to your body. They are called Killer 100’s. Compliments of my Olympic training partner years back name Tiombe Hurd. Of course over the years the drills have evolved..Get ready for some AB crunching and oblique twisting. This can be done almost anywhere and is very effective. If you want to pick it apart, its basically 10 drills done 10 times, back to back. No recovery in between. Check it out and stay tuned for video footage.

Killer 100’s

1. Contraction Crunches (crunch and hold for 10 seconds, release and explode right back into)
2. Elbow-Knees Left -(Lay flat, put Left ankle across right upper thigh…With opposite elbow, crunch towards the opposite knee)
3. Elbow-Knees Right -(Lay flat, put right ankle across left upper thigh…With opposite elbow, crunch towards the opposite knee)
4. Elevated single left leg crunch ( same hold as above and explosion)
5. Elevated single left leg crunch ( same hold as above and explosion)
6. Alternating Toe touch (on back feet straight up to the ceiling, then reach for opposite feet..left and right equals 1)
7. Contraction Crunches
8. Alternating flutters (lay flat, hands under bum, legs straight out and flutter feet up and down..2 low and 2 high flutters=1 rep)
9. Hip rolls (with knees up and feet up, rock your knees towards you in controlled manner, back and fourth) Be sure to squeeze and contract abs at the top.
10. Bicycle Abs Twist.

Do 3 rounds of this with reps of 10. Recover for about 60 – 90 seconds in between sets (depending on skill level). Remember 10 drills done 10 times = 100.

This is a great way to capitalize on your free time and be productive. You could always use a crazy core.

Crazy Core Concepts.

Getting rid of BACK FAT!!!

BACK FAT!!!!

This is among the top 5 things most women are trying to get rid of. A lot of woman deal with it, especially if they are top heavy. Back fat can be one of those embarrassing things that will keep a woman out of tank tops and bathing suits. It’s very stubborn and annoying to have. Sooooooo….are we ready for the solution???

Rule #1 – Diet

Rule #2 – Cardio

Rule #3 – Specific exercises.

Your Diet is what will either make or break you. Everything should always be in moderation. Substitution is the best way to start. Examples…Changing white rice to brown rice, white bread to wheat bread, fried chicken to baked or grilled chicken, and so on. There are all kinds of tricks. Eat low sodium items and more healthy fats. If you must do a night time snack, go with a fruit of some sort. Always start your day off with a good meal. That sets the tone for the day. If not you will get to the put of hunger where rational goes out the window and you are just looking to eat anything to satisfy that hunger bug. Make sure you eat regularly throughout the day and that its lean foods. That will help keep you lean and get you some good proteins in your body.

Working out is a must. We have become a lazy society and will rely on a pill of some sort or surgery, rather then to exercise. Have to kick that habit. Exercise is the only way to truly remove back fat. Activity is the only way. So ways of getting rid of Stubborn Back Fat are Swimming, kickboxing and/or Boxing, and running.  Also an awesome way to get rid of it is to the rowing machine and the boxing simulator. Some gyms carry both pieces of equipment. Also the proper amount of sleep can be beneficial as well. Lack of sleep can cause weight gain as well. That’s another topic I will revisit.

Now to the Good stuff.

Here are a series of things you can do.

1. Boxing/kickboxing workouts are at the top of my list. A good 20 minute of nonstop boxing with the heavy bag and with a trainer on the pads is always a winner. Trying different combinations of punches and angles can really help work those areas.
2. Crew – Oh yea…everyone can be a part of crew. For those who do not know. Those of the folks you see training at 430 am in the river on a boat rowing. Usually 4 to 6 people depending on the size of the boat. You have seen it. They are all synchronized and rowing in the same direction. A great workout for the back. So find you a rowing machine and consider yourself crew. Here are the drills. A. Regular rows (overhand). B. Left Rows (rowing and twisting to the left). C. Right Rows (Twisting to the right). D. Underhand Rows. E. Regular Rows. These are definitely key.
3. Back extensions (Cobras) – Lying flat on the ground on your chest. Arms along side the body. Bring your chest off the ground as much as possible without using your hands.  Repeat for 10 -15 reps. 3 sets of that.
4. Bent Over Rows – Leaning forward with your upper body parallel to the ground. With some hand weights, lets your arms hang, and then drive your elbows up and past your waist line to the ceiling.  Hold for a second, and then let them down. Repeat for 12. 3 rounds of 12.
5. Pushups – good old fashion pushups help to sculpt the arms, all the way to your back. Which include your lats, traps, rotator cuff, and deltoids. You can either do them on your knees or regular.

Well those are just a few things that can help. You can always email me and follow me on twitter and facebook for more details. Enjoy

Crazy Core Concepts.

Anuvahood Shoot for Flavour Magazine

Spotlight UK filmed exclusive behind the scenes footage of Flavour Magazine's photoshoot of the cast of the upcoming Urban Comedy - Anuvahood. Members of the cast including Adam Deacon were all interviewed by Flavour Magazine editor Annika Allen and Neetu Sahota the winner of Miss Flavour 2010.

Is TV making your child fat?

Childhood overweight is a societal issue gaining increased attention among Americans today. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 15 percent of children and adolescents are overweight. Overweight children and adolescents are above the 95th percentile for body weight in their gender and age group.

Childhood overweight is on the rise in all age groups. For example, CDC reports that the incidence of overweight among 6 to 11 years old boys and girls in the U.S. has quadrupled in that last 30 years.

One contributing factor to the increase in childhood overweight is electronics – specifically, time spent in front of the TV and playing video games. A multitude of studies have determined that television viewing contributes to childhood overweight by physical inactivity and by encouraging snacking, particularly high fat and high calorie foods.

Another study of 6,000 youth found the chances of being overweight increased by approximately 2% for each additional hour of television viewing per day. Research at the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, confirmed a link between television viewing and children’s food consumption patterns. They found that greater TV use is associated with higher intakes of fat, sweet and salty snacks and carbonated beverages; and lower intakes of fruit and vegetables.

Perhaps the best advice for parents is to get their kids to be active, or better yet, to be active WITH their kids, to limit TV watching to less than two hours per day, and to make sure they eat healthy foods. This isn’t a new concept, although when behaviorist John Lock drafted similar principles for raising children in 1693, he had to idea what parents would be up against!

Parenting Multi-racial Children

As multi-racial families become more prevalent in our culture, many challenges remain in raising multi-racial children. For example, children may grow up dealing with glares and comments from peers and adults who reject their family background. How can parents help their multiracial children thrive in their community

Researchers, educators, and practitioners working with multi-racial children suggest that parents follow several guidelines. First, they recommend that parents be open in the family about race and cultures. They can do this by encouraging their child's natural curiosity about differences and answering questions about the child's own background.

Parents can locate books and movies about multi-racial families and that "portray multi-racial individuals as positive role models". The family can attend different cultural events in the community and become familiar with the language, customs, and culture of all family members.

Families can also live in a diverse community where there is less sense of being "different". They can try to meet other multi-racial families and form support networks. Parents can also look into the local school system's training for teachers and counselors and encourage programs that increase understanding of multiracialism, or select schools that emphasize diversity as part of their program.

Like all children, multi-racial children "need to feel supported" and "nourished" "in their everyday environments" Parents, teachers, and extended family can have important roles to play in providing this nourishment.

Sources: American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 1999.