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Rock & Roll Academy Founder Chuck Brennan on the Organization’s Grand Opening

August 29, 2013 By Leave a Comment

RR Academy3Brennan Rock & Roll Academy founder Chuck Brennan has been a leading light in the music business for more than two decades. Before he created Dollar Loan Center in his hometown of Sioux Falls, S.D., Chuck Brennan opened and managed one of the Midwest’s most popular concert halls, the Blitz Ballroom. Chuck Brennan, who now resides in Las Vegas, NV, recently opened the Rock & Roll Academy to support the Boys & Girls Club in the Sioux Falls area.

Interviewing Experts: Who benefits from the Rock & Roll Academy?

Chuck Brennan: The Academy serves Boys & Girls Club members in the Sioux Falls area.

Interviewing Experts: What projects will these proceeds fund?

Chuck Brennan: The Academy will offer the first free music education program for Boys & Girls Club members in the area.

Interviewing Experts: Music plays such an important part in the lives of young people.

Chuck Brennan: It really does. This program brings the joy of music to children who might not otherwise have that exposure. In a place like Las Vegas, NV, this music education is readily available. In Sioux Falls, not so much.

Interviewing Experts: What musical components will the program emphasize?

Chuck Brennan: The program emphasizes traditional rock ‘n’ roll instruments like keyboard, drums, guitar, bass guitar and of course vocals.

Interviewing Experts: How much money does the Academy plan to raise?

Chuck Brennan: I have committed to raise the entire $3.6 million that it will take to fund the program for the next 20 years.

Interviewing Experts: Where was the grand opening held?

Chuck Brennan: The grand opening took place in Sioux Falls from March 26-30.

Interviewing Experts: Any featured entertainment?

Chuck Brennan: Night Ranger, one of America’s most popular rock bands, kicked off the weeks long events.

Interviewing Experts: Who else was in attendance?

Chuck Brennan: Louie Anderson and George Lopez had the audience in stitches with their comedy routines on the second night. Afterward, the two were joined onstage by Rick Harrison, star of the reality series “Pawn Stars.”

Interviewing Experts: That’s quite a lineup.

Chuck Brennan: There’s more. The third night featured Alice Cooper with a little help from his friends: Robby Krieger from the Doors, Joey Allen from Warrant, Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer from Kiss, and Sebastian Bach.

Interviewing Experts: What other activities were attendees able to enjoy?

Chuck Brennan: Attendees were invited to an open-house event that included tours for the general public.

Interviewing Experts: What took place during the closing ceremony?

Chuck Brennan: On the final evening, ’80s rock group Hairball performed with Stephen Pearcy from RATT, Vince Neil from Motley Crue, and a surprise appearance from Gene Simmons of KISS.

Interviewing Experts: A perfect ending.

Chuck Brennan: It was for sure. A one of a kind, week-long event that Sioux Falls or anywhere else won’t see again.

Filed Under: Business, Finances Tagged With: , , , ,

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem, Oregon based CEO of Bonaventure Senior Living Discusses Stress and Memory Loss

August 27, 2013 By Leave a Comment

kelley-d-hamilton-salem-oregon-4In this brief Q&A Bonaventure Senior Living CEO Kelley D. Hamilton of Salem, Oregon answers some questions from seniors about stress and memory loss. Kelley D. Hamilton of Salem, Oregon advises that people of all ages can successfully combat these problems. By alleviating stress in our lives, Kelley D. Hamilton of Salem, Oregon believes we have the potential to better enjoy our normal routines.

Q: How can I manage my stress?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: It’s important to first determine what triggers it. Stress is brought on by many elements, including cultural factors, hormones and genetics.

Q: Who’s more prone to stress: men or women?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: A man’s blood pressure will rise more sharply than a woman’s during a stress episode. However, women will typically feel moments of stress more regularly. Both genders can experience symptoms.

Q: Can symptoms be detected?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: In most cases, a stress episode is easily recognizable. For people who experience stress as a constant in their lives, symptoms like a tightening of the throat or a knot in the stomach can be subtle.

Q: How should I address stress?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: You may begin by performing a “full body scan.”

Q: What’s that?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: Keeping a daily journal of habits and routines is helpful. This record will determine if stress is just an occasional occurrence or something more serious.

Q: What are some notable symptoms of stress?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: Stress often manifests itself in increased heart rate and stomach issues.

Q: What’s the first course of action to reduce stress?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: Exercise is wonderful stress reliever, and a necessity in staving off memory loss. The brain regions that show the most prominent decay during late adulthood are those that benefit most from regular exercise.

Q: How often should I exercise?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: Amounts vary from person to person, and you should always consult a doctor before starting any major exercise regimen, but a good target goal should be about 150 minutes each week of moderate aerobic exercise.

Q: What activities should I consider?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: Activities such as jogging, swimming and biking are recommended.  Swimming in particular is great for seniors because it’s a low impact exercise.

Q: Why do you think those are the best types of exercise?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: It’s pretty simple. These forms of exercise produce a good sweat and make the heart pump faster.  They can also be fun and allow you to set your own pace.

Q: What else might help me?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: Sleep is often overlooked as part of a healthy diet and exercise regimen, but maintaining a regular sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day will do wonders for you.

Q: What if I suffer from insomnia and falling asleep is an issue?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: For those who have trouble falling asleep, sometimes the tried-and-true tricks may work. Most commonly reading books or listening to some relaxing music.  Some sleep therapists also recommend only going to bed when you feel sleepy, so your body associates the bed with sleep.  Everyone is a little different and you may find certain methods work better than others.

Q: Is a certain diet necessary?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: Many doctors say that it’s best to avoid caffeine, nicotine or acidic foods before bedtime.

Q: Anything else to avoid?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: I would suggest intentionally unplugging from all forms of technology such as laptops, cell phones and televisions.  Eliminate distractions which may keep you awake.  Sometimes simply thinking too hard about trying to sleep can keep your mind active and prevent sleep, which is why some people recommend “white noise” such as the sound of a mountain stream.

Q: In your opinion, what’s one of the most important things to note about memory loss?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: Memory loss is not just an age-related condition. It’s also a function of our busy lifestyles.  Certainly genetics can play a part, but keeping your mind and body active is important to help keep your brain functioning optimally.

Kelley D. Hamilton of Salem, Oregon, is the CEO at Bonaventure Senior Living, one of the leading senior living organizations in the United States. For Kelley D. Hamilton of Salem, Oregon, contributing to the health and happiness of seniors in Bonaventure communities is one of his greatest achievements.

 

Filed Under: Health and Wellness Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Learning a Musical Instrument at Any Age

August 26, 2013 By Leave a Comment

learning-a-musical-instrument-at-any-ageLearning to play an instrument at any age comes with set of challenges.  Whether it’s the piano, banjo, or autoharp, mastering a musical instrument is like learning a new language.  To adults who have never played before, learning to play can feel like learning to speak Chinese and program computers – at the same time.  But, it’s not impossible for adults, just a little more difficult.

When children begin learning to play instruments, their brains are still growing new brain cells and some of those new cells become devoted to playing.  In the adult brain, learning an instrument requires that new connections are created, as cell growth in the brain is done.  This leads to challenges for adults who are picking up an instrument for the first time, but it isn’t insurmountable.

In order for adults to be successful, they must accept that (1) they will not become virtuosos, (2) it will be difficult, and (3) it is a little scary at first.  Getting over those psychological barriers goes a long way to learning to play.  Finding a great teacher is also key.  Rather than looking for the best musician in town, consider a teacher who understands how adults learn.  Teachers who understand adults will offer constructive criticism that will aid in getting the most out of practice sessions and future lessons.

When deciding whether or not to pick up that guitar that’s been sitting in attic, untouched until “someday,” think about the benefits that can result from learning.  The practice and concentration that go into learning to play are good for the brain.  Playing requires the use of so many parts of the brain, often at the same time, the brain will experience a tremendous workout.  Playing an instrument can also help ward off depression, boredom, and loneliness in old age.  And, there is no better feeling than that of accomplishment, even if it comes in the form of “Mary Had a Little Lamb.”

 

 

Filed Under: Music, Professionals

Aldo Disorbo Suggests Toys for Tots as Charity for Businesses to Support

August 19, 2013 By 4 Comments

Aldo-Disorbo-Christmas-Presents-Interviewing-ExpertsNationwide Relocation Services founder Aldo Disorbo says the Toys for Tots charity makes a difference to underprivileged children every year. Here, the Fort Lauderdale-based businessman talks to Interviewing Experts about his experience with the organization.

Interviewing Experts: Thank you for being here today. We know you are busy.

Aldo Disorbo: The pleasure is all mine.

Interviewing Experts: First, can you tell us a bit about your business for our readers?

Aldo Disorbo: I’m the owner of Nationwide Relocation Services. We’re a moving brokerage firm. We help customers find the right moving company that can work with their budget and specific relocation needs.

Interviewing Experts: Very interesting. Do most people have trouble finding their own moving company?

Aldo Disorbo: Absolutely—there are literally thousands of moving companies out there and more pop up every day. It can be mind-blowing.

Interviewing Experts: Let’s talk about your company’s charitable giving. Do you have a specific organization that you work with?

Aldo Disorbo: Nationwide Relocation Services works with many charitable organizations for many causes. But, the one that is nearest and dearest to my heart is Toys for Tots.

Interviewing Experts: Why’s that?

Aldo Disorbo: Toys for Tots provides hope to some of the country’s most needy children.

Interviewing Experts: How so?

Aldo Disorbo: Well, Christmas is a magical time for most people. It can, however, be a time of great distress for many families facing financial difficulties. The Toys for Tots program and the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves keep the magic alive by helping these families have a good Christmas morning.

Interviewing Experts: And Nationwide Relocation Services has partnered with Toys for Tots before?

Aldo Disorbo: Yes, absolutely. Thinking back, 2009 was probably our most successful year working with the charity. Thanks to the efforts of our dedicated staff and affiliates, we collected more than 500 toys for deserving children.

Interviewing Experts: No doubt that helped many families.

Aldo Disorbo: I’m proud to say there were a few hundred children waking up that morning to something special.

Interviewing Experts: How did people get toys to you?

Aldo Disorbo: Our employees brought in toys and opened up our office in Fort Lauderdale to the public as a drop-off point.

Interviewing Experts: When does Toys for Tots begin their toy drive?

Aldo Disorbo: They start every year in October and finish in mid-December.

Interviewing Experts: How long has Toys for Tots been around?

Aldo Disorbo: Toys for Tots was actually founded in 1947. The organization collected more than 5,000 toys its first year.

Interviewing Experts: We understand the Toys for Tots logo was designed by someone with quite a famous name?

Aldo Disorbo: Yes, in 1948 none other than Walt Disney himself designed the logo that features the caboose of the train and two rail cars. Over the last 50 years it has become an iconic symbol for the charity.

Interviewing Experts: How widespread is the Toys for Tots program?

Aldo Disorbo: Toys for Tots is found in all 50 states.

Interviewing Experts: How are children chosen to be recipients?

Aldo Disorbo: Parents can request help from the Toys for Tots website. Around Christmas, Toys for Tots coordinators work with welfare agencies and other groups to determine where the greatest need is.

Interviewing Experts: Can individuals volunteer with the program?

Aldo Disorbo: Yes. From what I understand they accept volunteers everywhere that they have an office or warehouse.

Interviewing Experts: What opportunities are available?

Aldo Disorbo: There are many different ways to help. Of course, you can always donate a toy—a drop-off location is never hard to find. Additionally, a Toys for Tots event can be held at a private home or office.

Interviewing Experts: You seem very passionate about this charity.

Aldo Disorbo: I am—this is one that I definitely recommend that all businesses, and especially those with great social connections, support. There is nothing more rewarding than knowing you helped a child, and what better way than to make them smile on Christmas morning.

Interviewing Experts: We appreciate your time today. Thanks to you and Nationwide Relocation Services for all you’re doing for children in our communities.

Aldo Disorbo has had a passion for moving since his teens. He founded his first moving company with nothing more than an old beat-up truck and a dream. Today, Nationwide Relocation Services is the nation’s largest provider of third-party moving services in the country.

Filed Under: Business, General Tagged With: , , ,

London Piano Institute Sheds Light on Ludwig van Beethoven

August 13, 2013 By Leave a Comment

London-Piano-Institute-Ludwig-Van-BeethovenThe tragic loss of Beethoven’s hearing didn’t thwart his desire to combine sounds, says London Piano Institute. In today’s interview, the staff of Interviewing Experts speaks with London Piano Institute and Celine Gaurier-Joubert about the tumultuous life of this classical composer.

Interviewing Experts: Good morning, we are so happy to have you here.

London Piano Institute: Thank you for the opportunity.

Interviewing Experts: We’re here to talk about one of the most notable classic composers ever, Beethoven. Is his music important to your institute?

London Piano Institute: Yes, absolutely. He remains an inspiration for our students.

Interviewing Experts: You teach Beethoven at London Piano Institute?

London Piano Institute: We do. In fact, he is quite a popular topic of both conversation and study.

Interviewing Experts: Can you tell us a bit about him?

London Piano Institute: Beethoven was born in Germany in the winter of 1770. His father was a musician and taught his surviving children as much as he could about melody.

Interviewing Experts: Surviving children?

London Piano Institute: Tragically, Beethoven was only one of three surviving children for the elder Beethoven and his wife. The couple lost four infants at birth.

Interviewing Experts: Quite sad; could this have influence his work?

London Piano Institute: Perhaps, but his life was steeped in turmoil, including the later loss of a brother and a nasty custody battle over his nephew.

Interviewing Experts: Was he married?

London Piano Institute: No, he never wed. He did, however, have one notable love interest, one Countess Giulietta Guicciardi.

Interviewing Experts: Why did the two not wed?

London Piano Institute: He was not of noble birth. He also fell in love with fellow musician Therese Malfatti, but common speculation suggests social constraints denied him romantic bliss once again.

Interviewing Experts: She is the dedicatee of his Für Elise, right?

London Piano Institute: Possibly, but it is not formally noted. Historians have it narrowed to several possible love interests.

Interviewing Experts: As a composer at the time, how did Beethoven earn a living?

London Piano Institute: The vast majority of his income stemmed from patrons who commissioned works from the musician. His largest supporter was Archduke Rudolph. Other revenue came from performances and publications. Unfortunately, he had a limited income before his death.

Interviewing Experts: It has been said that Beethoven had a rather strong personality.

London Piano Institute: He did, indeed. He had a wanton disregard for authority and a lack of respect for social stigma. He liked things a certain way and caused a stir more than once. Very telling of his personality is the fact that Archduke Rudolph actually made a public decree that proper court etiquette constraints did not apply to the musician.

Interviewing Experts: That’s very interesting. Unfortunately, that’s all the time we have today. Thank you for speaking with us.

London Piano Institute is directed by master pianist Celine Gaurier-Joubert who founded the school based on the belief that adult learners could master the piano despite previous musical experience. Celine Gaurier-Joubert offers instruction in a variety of musical genres.

Filed Under: General Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

Entrepreneur Sandra Dyche on the Benefits of the EB-5 Program

August 5, 2013 By Leave a Comment

Sandra-Dyche-EB-5-ImmigrationEntrepreneur Sandra Dyche has seen firsthand how foreign investors have used the EB-5 program to accelerate job creation for out-of-work Americans. Below, Sandra Dyche describes the EB-5 program and its benefits for both foreign investors and unemployed workers.

Interviewing Experts: What is the EB-5 program?

Sandra Dyche: EB-5 means “employment-based fifth preference.” An employment-based fifth preference is another term for an immigrant investor visa mandates that new employment positions be created for U.S. workers.

Interviewing Experts: When was this program started?

Sandra Dyche: In 1990, Congress began the EB-5 program in order to create more jobs and enhance economic growth. This is accomplished through capital investments from foreign investors.

Interviewing Experts: Who oversees it?

Sandra Dyche: Homeland Security oversees the EB-5 program, which is administered by the U.S. Immigration and Citizenship Services (USCIS).

Interviewing Experts: How does the EB-5 program work?

Sandra Dyche: The EB-5 program is the most efficient method for foreign investors to earn a U.S. green card, which also extends to their immediate family. The program authorizes many green cards each year, with a limit of 10,000.

Interviewing Experts: How does a foreign investor qualify?

Sandra Dyche: Foreign individuals who invest $1,000,000 are eligible as long as the investment comes from lawful source and can be vetted. The amount is reduced to $500,000 if the proposed project is located in a qualifying location called a targeted employment area (TEA). TEA is an area that has an unemployment rate at least 150 percent above the national average. For every EB-5 investment, the requirement is to develop at least 10 jobs for workers in the U.S.

Interviewing Experts: What else do EB-5 investors need to know?

Sandra Dyche: The Regional Center program, which was instituted in 1992, allows EB-5 investors to have an advantage in this process. In the Regional Center program, investors can count direct jobs as well as induced and indirect jobs.

Interviewing Experts: What is a Regional Center?

Sandra Dyche: A Regional Center is an entity, either public or private, that is formed to induce economic growth in a specific area. To be considered as a Regional Center, an entity must fill out an application and receive approval from USCIS. The approval only covers specific geographic regions and established industry codes.

Interviewing Experts: Has the EB-5 program been successful?

Sandra Dyche: At first, the Regional Center program was rarely used. However, nearly 300 Regional Centers have been approved and now being operational in the United States, most of them located in major markets. This is a considerable improvement from approximately 30 Regional Centers that were approved as of 2007.

Filed Under: Business Tagged With: ,

Rabbi Binyomin Lisbon Discusses Certification Processes for Kosher Gelatin

August 5, 2013 By Leave a Comment


KSA-Kosher-GelatinAccording to Rabbi Binyomin Lisbon, gelatin is one of the most complex food products introduced for kosher certification. Rabbi Binyomin Lisbon attributes the confusion about kosher gelatin to the various definitions provided by American companies and certification agencies. Below, Rabbi Binyomin Lisbon helps to explain the different food sources of gelatin.

Q: Where is gelatin derived?

Rabbi Binyomin Lisbon: Gelatin is typically derived from collagen in the bones and skin of animals. It can also be produced from the skins of kosher cattle.

Q: Kosher gelatin is not vegetarian then.

Rabbi Binyomin Lisbon: For vegetarians, both kosher and non-kosher gelatin presents issues. In some cases, gelatin is considered vegetarian.

Q: How so?

Rabbi Binyomin Lisbon: Kosher gelatin can be produced using vegetarian sources such as agar-agar, Japanese isinglass, carrageenan and Irish moss.

Q: What kinds of animals are used in the production?

Rabbi Binyomin Lisbon: Manufacturers never produce kosher gelatin made from pigs or any other non-kosher animals.

Q: What about fish?

Rabbi Binyomin Lisbon: Certain kinds of shallow-water fish or shellfish are strictly forbidden. However, deep-water fish is permissible for the production of kosher gelatin.

Q: Have manufacturers maintained observance of kosher laws?

Rabbi Binyomin Lisbon: Most manufacturers who produce kosher gelatin have used substitutes.

Q: What are some of these substitutes?

Rabbi Binyomin Lisbon: Substitutes include seaweed-based products or fish-bone gelatin. Further, kosher milk chocolate has, at times, been produced using kosher beef gelatin.

Q: How is this possible given kosher laws?

Rabbi Binyomin Lisbon: Kosher laws prohibit the production or consumption of milk and meat together; however, the processing of gelatin and milk, according to some opinions, may be acceptable for consumption.

Q: What are the health benefits of kosher gelatin?

Rabbi Binyomin Lisbon: Kosher gelatin has several health benefits; it is fat-free, sugar-free and an excellent product for strong bones.

Q: Is kosher gelatin appealing to the general public?

Rabbi Binyomin Lisbon: It’s actually an essential ingredient in many delicious dishes.

Q: Tell us more.

Rabbi Binyomin Lisbon: For example, kosher gelatin is found in desserts such as no-bake cheesecakes, chocolate mousses, chiffons, parfaits and custard gels that are popular with kosher and non-kosher consumers.

Q: How is gelatin sold in the supermarket?

Rabbi Binyomin Lisbon: In the past, gelatin was only available in large packages. However, gelatin is now sold in consumer-sized servings for use in home baking and cooking.

Q: Has KSA experienced any issues with kosher certification for gelatin?

Rabbi Binyomin Lisbon: The problem in most cases is that different companies and agencies have not clearly defined what kosher gelatin truly means.

Q: How should the kosher consumer approach kosher gelatin?

Rabbi Binyomin Lisbon: The kosher consumer must examine an agency’s policies and what specific certifications mean. For example, each product submitted to KSA undergoes rigorous testing so that the consumer is assured of its quality.

 Rabbi Binyomin Lisbon is the top administrator of Kosher Supervision of America (KSA), which currently ranks as the leading kosher certification agency in the Western United States.

Filed Under: Business Tagged With: , , ,

Tips for Using a Home Equity Loan

August 4, 2013 By Leave a Comment

9Property and structural improvements are on the top of the list why home owners apply for a home equity loan. After maintaining a good credit score by making several years’ worth of mortgage payments, most people prefer to acquire a loan to make some remodeling or payments for some kind of repairs. Some home projects that home equity can pay for are room additions, basement refurbishing, and plumbing. Making these changes will increase the value of your property, which really is a form of investment.

However, home equity loans can be used for so much more than repairs and refurbishing. High college costs turned a number of parents towards borrowing money to fund their child’s educational expenses. With college tuition fees soaring, it is no wonder that many parents will not be able to cover the entire cost of college with their savings. Even though scholarships and government assistance are available in some cases, moms and dads still find themselves needing the extra funds to cover expenses.

Still, there are some folks who use the cash from home equity loans to fly on a vacation, purchase a new car, or pay off business expenses. These may seem like ridiculous uses for a home equity loan but they are legitimate. Provided one qualifies, no one can prevent borrowers from spending the money in any way they desire.

So, if a major expense is in the future, you may consider applying for a home equity loan now. Whatever a homeowner’s individual circumstance, finding a lender who is committed to working one-on-one with each person is essential when applying for a loan. Besides, in a market where many homeowners aren’t able to upgrade to a new home, home equity loans are a great alternative.

Home equity loans require a good credit rating and history, in addition to requiring that the value of the home is in good proportion to the value of the loan. Currently, there are some favorable rates on these loans, so this could be a great time to take care of those renovation projects you have planned.

 

 

Filed Under: Finances