Shihan Michael Cindis recently opened Pan African Shotokan Karate Federation Dojo in Selcourt held a seminar on Saturday morning. Cindi previously operated as the chief instructor at the Kwa-Thema Shotokan Dojo at Kenneth Masikela Secondary School The dojo was moved to Selcourt after the hard lockdown meant they could no longer use the school premises. The dojo boasts six black belt fighters, but is eager to get as many new karatekas as possible.

Also read: Karateka presteer by jaarlikse funksie

On Saturday, seasoned and newly recruited karatekas were shown the ways of sensei Abdul Dawoods special shotokan. Dawood comes from East London and is well known for his focus on technique and discipline. Students lined up and were given warm-up drills before Dawood showed them new moves. Brave volunteers stood up in front to spar with Dawood where they quickly learned his unique techniques and moves. Later in the afternoon, the karatekas were given a Tai Chi lesson by Dawood.

Also read: Springs karatekas bring home a handful of medals

Tai Chi is a non-contact form of karate and focuses more on health benefits then self defence. In addition, the dojo offers women self-defence classes, childrens classes, Koshiki, karate, Kududo (weapons) and aerobics. Cindi wants his students to know as many forms of karate as possible to unlock their full potential. Anyone of all ages and experience are encouraged to join the dojo. For more information, contact Cindi on 073 212 9444. To register for aerobics classes, contact Ruth Nkosi on 078 613 4463.

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Seasoned and new karatekas taught Tai-Chi - Springs Advertiser

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I'm going to keep it real: the mainstream image of "fit" is too narrow. Literally. We still live in a world where being perfectly thin and toned with a six pack is the pinnacle. And while fitness should be accessible to everybody, most of these images don't represent every body. They largely leave out people of different sizes, genders, abilities, races, ages, and other identities. The push to achieve this fit ideal can overly-dominate gym culture, causing many to feel excluded from the community, to harshly judge themselves and others, ignore their body's boundaries, or avoid the gym altogether (just to name some potential harms).

Thankfully, there are many gyms looking to create more inclusive spaces so that anyone who walks through their door feels welcomed. But since "inclusivity" is such a buzz word nowadays, it can be tough to decipher which organizations are actively mindful in the mission or simply putting up a rainbow flag for show. To help navigate, its important to be clear on what inclusive means.

"For me an inclusive fitness space means having trainers who respect and honor pronouns and educate themselves on how body and gender dysphoria can show up in each individual, says Ilya Parker, P.T.A., C.M.E.S, a social justice advocate and the owner of Decolonizing Fitness. It means having practitioners to provide safe and supportive environments where all clients feel cared for and respected. It also means creating an environment of accountability.

One good example of gauging an organizations sense of accountability is seeing diversity among their leadership and reading whats written in their policies, says Chrissy King, a strength coach and creator of the Body Liberation Project. I think its really important to have a clear anti-racism and diversity inclusion policy, she says. Setting up the understanding of the community agreements for people that are coming into the space as members or staff matters a lot.

There are also a lot of other factors these gyms consider when it comes to creating a more inclusive environment such as having gender-neutral bathrooms and equipment for people with disabilities, King adds. However, its vital to be aware that even when gyms make the effort to build more welcoming environments, there's no way to guarantee that every person will feel completely safe and supported. So it's good to have options to explore which communities are best for your body, mind, and spirit.

To narrow your search, Ive found 20 incredible fitness organizations who are dedicated to inclusion and flipping the fit script. Heres to celebrating all bodies and all the ways they like to move!

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1 Radically Fit Oakland

Location: Oakland, CA

This Bay Area gym is focused on providing offerings for "all queer, trans, POC, big bodied, and fat identified folx and their allies, regardless of experience or ability." Radically Fit currently has online classes such as Trans/Gender Non-Conforming Body Alignment, Embodied Dance, strength and conditioning for BBQ's (Black and Brown Queers). They also offer sliding scale memberships.

2 The Fit In

Location: Brooklyn, NY

The Fit In is all about community and treating everyone like family. This Black-owned space features many BIPOC women instructors who specialize in Pilates, HIIT, and other modalities. My favorite part about their classes is the music. Prepare to get down to Beyonc, some Afro pop, or 90s hip hop when you hit your squats.

3 Everybody Los Angeles

Location: Los Angeles

Everybody Los Angeles has nearly everything, including an outdoor gym patio with battle ropes, weights, stationary bikes, and more. They have a wide variety of online classes, too, like Pilates, yoga, dance aerobics, and strengthening. They have sliding scale memberships, which is in alignment with their mission to create affordable, accessible, and adaptive fitness offerings for all.

4 Nonnormative Body Club

Location: Philadelphia

Founded by certified personal trainer, Asher Freeman, the intention of this group is to is "to remind people that our bodies belong to us, and we have every right to inhabit, nourish, and celebrate them as they are." They offer virtual personal training and virtual group classes such as: Mobility Mondays and bodyweight circuit training. There are also trans wellness resources as well as a database of other home workout offerings by BIPOC, trans, fat, and disabled trainers.

5 joyn

Location: Online

joyn has a bunch of body positive classes that not only look like a ton of fun, you can do them in the comfort of your home. They have kickboxing, yoga, dance, meditation, and more. If you want to try what they have to offer, some of their classes are free. I don't know about you, but have my eye on "Intro to Waacking."

6 Autonomy Movement

Location: Austin, TX

This wellness initiative is a size-inclusive, body-positive fitness studio. It was founded by Kim Gould, a licensed therapist who specializes in eating disorders and body image issues. In their classes, the instructors are trained in autonomy-specific motivational language to teach in a mindful way. Autonomy Movement also offers personal training, mental health counseling, and intuitive movement resources.

7 Body Image for Justice

Location: Jamaica Plain, MA

Justice Roe Williams started BI4J to gather the LGBTQIA community together to support the health and well-being of its members. Williams hosts workshops and is currently teaching bodybuilding and strength classes.

8 13th Flow

Location: Chicago

13th Flow is run by some of the most intelligent, socially-minded, coaches in the midwest: former pro CrossFit athlete and social worker, Elisabeth Akinwale and longtime strength and conditioning coach Kevin Brathwaithe. Their gym is focused on functional training with fluidity by meeting each individual where they are at, physically, mentally, and emotionally. Right now, 13th Flow has online programming for $13 a month and online classes.

9 Decolonizing Fitness

Location: Online

Decolonizing Fitness is not a gym, but an incredible resource for people to find queer and trans affirming spaces. They also provide tons of information for coaches, trainers, gym owners, and other people who are interested in unlearning toxic fitness culture.

10 Strive and Uplift

Location: Seattle, WA and Boulder, CO

Strive and Uplift is a strength and conditioning community that is focused on working with individuals at all fitness levels. They are dedicated to using non-gendered language while actively taking feedback from members to shape the values of the gym culture. Strive and Uplift has a variety of courses from bodyweight flows to kettlebell training. They also offer a sliding scale program for memberships.

11 Women's Strength Coalition

Location: Online

The Women's Strength Coalition has been a force in the powerlifting community by pushing for the creation of spaces where everyone can #SharethePlatform. They've hosted fundraising powerlifting meets all over the country to give to social-justice oriented nonprofits, and even started a woman-owned gym called Strength for All in NYC. They are currently not offering any classes, however, their website has a decent directory of affiliate gyms who are aligned with WSC's mission.

12 Dean Crossfit

Location: Brooklyn, NY

This Black-owned box is passionate about health and wellness as well as social justice. Unlike a lot of CrossFit gyms, they offer classes at different levels so that athletes at various fitness degrees can participate in a way they are most comfortable. They have a beautiful outdoor space, as well as a highly-equipped indoor facility. If you're more interested in working out in your living room, then Dean CrossFit also has something for you, too.

13 Push Fitness

Location: Salem, OR

This studio is for the moms! The instructors at PUSH specialize in prenatal and postnatal fitness, all the while celebrating this beautiful phase in life. They currently offer personal training, strength, Kinstretch classes, and more.

14 The Underbelly

Location: Online

The Underbelly was founded by the renowned Jessamyn Stanley, a yoga teacher and body positivity advocate. Here you can select from countless flows taught by Stanley herself, and it only costs $9.99 a month!

15 BLAQUE

Location: NYC

BLAQUE is seeking to create a boutique fitness space that is welcoming to all, but centers around the BIPOC experience. While they are not offering classes at the moment (you can only join their waitlist), their Instagram features plenty of movement tips, health and culture conversations, as well as beautiful pictures Black and Brown people living their best lives.

16 DANCE CHURCH

Location: Online

When I tried DANCE CHURCH for the first time, I felt like at child at play. Their guided improvisation dance classes are a space where you can truly let go and be who you are all the while breaking a sweat. It's pure jubilee. Join in.

17 the be.come project

Location: Online

The people of the be.come project believe that you should workout because you love your body, not because you're trying to fix that or shed this. This online program is "a body-neutral, I-can-do-it, go-on-and-love-yourself approach to boutique fitness in an accessible 25-minute routine." Each week, you practice the same routine so you can master the movements and enhance your mind/body connection. You can join for $35 a month.

18 solcana fitness

Location: Minneapolis

The three pillars of Solcana Fitness are: joyful health, community, and accountability. It's a functional training gym that is queer-friendly and social justice oriented. One of the latest online workshops is focused on helping people break away from harmful diet culture and embracing the awesomeness of your own body. Check out their page for virtual offerings and in-person classes.

19 Pop Gym

Location: NYC

Pop Gym is centered on empowering people not just in fitness but in their daily lives. They offer various types of programming at little to no cost such as yoga, self-defense, and deescalation workshops. They also have a bunch of health and wellness resources for the LGBTQIA community such as a directory of friendly facilities to train and exercise.

20 GumboFit

Location: Chicago

If you're a runner in Chi-town, you want to check this group out. The Nike-sponsored team of running enthusiasts are empowering BIPOC of all levels on the track, the trails, and the streets. The other cool thing about GumboFit is that they have their own media brand dedicated to exploring culture and politics within the Black diaspora. If you're curious about running with them, here's the good news: it doesn't cost anything to sign up.

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20 Best Inclusive Gyms and Fitness Spaces - Body Positive Workouts - GoodHousekeeping.com

Federation of Indian Sports Aerobics and Fitness (FISAF) has the aim to develop sports and fitness aerobics according to international standards. With eminent members in the organization who have been working in sports aerobics for a long time, it has sent players from India to international contests who won medals for the country.

In order to realize their vision for developing sports aerobics all across India at an international level, FISAF India released the initiative of Sports Aerobics Education Program. This provides online resources, training camps, seminars and more, for school students as well as aerobic athletes. With this vision in mind, sports aerobics and fitness will be available to everyone across the country free of cost. This will encourage more participation in sports and fitness aerobics through the younger age groups in FISAF India events. Encouraging early talent is a key to putting India on the global map of sports aerobics.

The aerobics resources consist of five online training videos which can be done any time and do not need any equipment. These videos provide total body exercises that are safe and easy to perform without any risk of injury. People of all age groups can keep fit at home through these aerobic videos which also consist of pre-choreographed routines synced to music. This makes it a fun and challenging exercise.

FISAF INDIA provides these resources for free to encourage the growth of this new era sports and fitness in India. They are encouraging the Fit India movement, which aims to improve the quality of living for many by incorporating fitness into their everyday lifestyle. The organization consists of former international athletes who have been working in sports aerobics from a very long time and have brought about significant change.

Through the availability of easy access to sports aerobics resources, FISAF India is fulfilling the mission to develop Indias sports and fitness aerobics standards to international levels.

Also read:FISAF Paving the way for Indian athletes in sports and fitness aerobics

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How FISAF provides accessible resources for sports and fitness aerobics - The Bridge

According to the U.S. Physical Activity Guidelines, adults are recommended to perform at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercises weekly along with at least two strength-training sessions to stay healthy and fit. Whilst exercising outdoors or signing up for a gym membership are both compelling options, setting up a home gym is the most time-efficient, cost-effective, and convenient option for people who like to exercise frequently. There are countless reasons why it might be inconvenient for you to work out in a gym or outdoors. For instance, personal reasons such as busy work schedules and external factors such as bad weather conditions or pandemic outbreaks can interfere with your fitness goals.

One of the most common misconceptions about the home gym is that it requires a lot of costly high-end equipment. However, based on your personal fitness goals and needs, you can optimize your available space with a few pieces of equipment that can benefit you the most.

This article is a guide to 7 pieces of home gym equipment that are well worth buying.

Among the most popular choices of equipment for cardio training, exercise bikes are often the first choice for home gyms as they take up less space than treadmills and are generally more affordable. Moreover, exercise bikes require a minimum amount of maintenance while still suffice your daily needs for cardiovascular training. They are ideal for people with busy schedules as they can help you squeeze in short and effective workouts before or after work without having to travel to the gym and back. Good quality exercise bikes can also track your calories burned as well as heart rates via hand sensors along with basic workout details such as distance, time, and speed.

Exercise bikes are widely available with different price ranges and specific features from simple stationary bikes to pricey folding magnetic bikes. But according to the experts at FlexMasterGeneral.com, the two most popular options are the Peloton and Nordictrack Commercial Studio Cycles for their adjustable seats as well as digital screens for tracking your workout progress. Another feature to look for when looking for one is a good quality flywheel as this will allow users to have a quiet and smooth ride.

When it comes to strength training, resistance bands are often overlooked as people tend to look for weight benches and dumbbells to purchase for their home gyms. However, resistance bands are highly versatile, easy to store, affordable, and lightweight compared to kettlebells, dumbbells, and other exercise equipment. You can use resistance bands at home for multiple workout programs such as planks, sidesteps, and squats. There are resistance bands with different levels of elasticity which change the intensity of your workout.

There are several different ways you can work on your cardiovascular training and rowing is one of the most effective low-impact workouts. If you have a large enough space to spare for your home gym, you should consider investing in an indoor rowing machine. Typically, indoor rowing machines can be separated into two parts to make them easier to store. Rowing machines are total-body workout equipment that can be used for both cardio and muscle toning purposes. Specifically, you can have a full-body exercise with an indoor rowing machine, which focuses mostly on your arms, legs, core, and back. Moreover, in contrast to running, there is less impact on your ankles and knees. Remember to look into the exact measurements of your chosen rowing machine to make sure that your home gym is spacious enough to place it.

If you are looking for a full-rounded workout program, you need to incorporate strength training into your exercise routines. There are various types of fitness equipment that are designed to target different groups of muscles and the most versatile are dumbbells. Because of that, most home gyms are equipped with a few sets of dumbbells in different weights or better yet, have an adjustable pair of dumbbells to help trainers to target most major muscle groups such as arms, chest, legs, and back. Adjustable dumbbells are highly convenient, versatile, and easy to store.

Running on a treadmill is one of the most effective forms of cardiovascular exercise. Treadmills come with different programs and speed features and can be customized with different calorie and heart rate tracking features. Along with exercise bikes, treadmills are among the top choices of cardio equipment for home gyms. Depending on your available space, you may want to consider a treadmill with a folding frame. Prices of treadmills range significantly depending on the in-built features, but for basic home use, a simple model will be all you need.

A good-quality yoga mat can serve you for different fitness activities including yoga practice, pilates, and strength training workouts using your body weight. When choosing your yoga mat, it is important to look for a non-slip mat to avoid potential injuries and maintain good alignment. Moreover, good-quality mats tend to be well cushioned and are easy to wipe clean. Surprisingly, some high-end yoga mats can actually be very expensive, but a regular, multi-purpose yoga mat will only set you back a few dollars.

Medicine balls are versatile pieces of fitness equipment that can be used for a variety of workouts. Medicine balls are great for abdominal workouts and step aerobics. Medicine balls come in a range of weights and sizes, but a large medicine ball can suit most of your needs. You can choose a medicine ball in either hard plastic or a softer foam version depending on what kind of workout you intend to use it for.

Performing frequent physical exercises have numerous health benefits for us both physically and mentally. With a convenient home gym, you can meet your fitness goals and satisfy your exercise needs while saving time that would otherwise be spent commuting to the gym as well as saving a lot of money on a pricey gym membership. Work out more often at home with these 7 pieces of home gym equipment.

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7 Pieces Of Home Gym Equipment That Are Worth Buying - E/The Environmental Magazine

American Horror Story loves to reuse it's actors each season, but which actors should stick around, and which shouldn't?

Successful horror-themed television shows are few and far between, but Ryan Murphy managed to hit it out of the park with American Horror Story. Though the series is an anthology and has an entirely different premise every season, it is most popular for its unique choice to use primarily the same cast members to play different characters every year.

RELATED:American Horror Story: 10 Actors You Forgot Appeared In The Series

Fans gets to see their favorite actors and actresses tackle a variety of roles, but this also means that some of them may wear out their welcome over time. The hit horror anthology is currently preparing to begin filmingits mysterious 10th season, and is sure to include a few familiar faces. Take a look at 5 stars that fans are eager to see more of in future seasons, and 5 that have been less popular.

The daughter of the late Carrie Fisherand granddaughter of Debbie Reynolds, Billie Lourd comes from a line of actresses brimming with talent and personality.

Throughout herAmerican Horror Story career, she has graced the screen in three separate roles in Cult,Apocalypse, and finally as the aerobics-obsessed Montana in 1984.Lourd has proven herself as a versatile actress that brings uniqueness to each performance, and she is a credit to the series.She is confirmed to appear in season 10, though little is known about her role.

Chlo Sevigny has previously won a Golden Globe for herperformance as Nicki GrantinBig Love, but herAmerican Horror Storycharacters blend together and are associated with either convoluted or less than exciting plot lines.

Despite being a sympathetic character with an intriguing past in Asylum, her inclusion was not particularly important to the overall arc of the season. In Hotel, her character is even less interesting and often frustrating to watch as she makes continuallyconfusing choices.

Leslie Jordan first starred in American Horror Story: Coven as a warlock and member of the Witches Council. He has also had small roles in Roanoke and 1984. Known for his short stature and his Southern accent, he owns the qualities that some may mock, and he carries himself with confidence and good humor.

RELATED:American Horror Story: Every Character Leslie Jordan Played

These traits bleed into his characters and make them both funny and likable even if theyre not very good people. Jordan is always entertaining to watch and bringsa fun sense of flair to his roles.

Theres a certain nostalgia about Dylan McDermott. Hes been with the show from the beginning, and his role as the cheating husband and at-home therapist, Ben Harmon, is memorable because it was the premiere season. Unfortunately, his characters have lacked oomph, and some are nothing more than a cameo or a shocking plot twist.

This can especially be said of Johnny Morgan. Asylumhad too many plots to juggle.The son of Bloodyface intent on following in his fathers footsteps was just a confusing blur after the aliens and the Nazis.

Angela Bassett is a stand out performer that brings a certain intoxicating charisma to her characters, while still giving them a distinct life of their own. Starring in four seasons, Bassett has quite the American Horror Story resume. She has appeared in Coven, Freak Show, Hotel, and Roanoke.

RELATED:Angela Bassett's 10 Best Movies Of The Past Decade (According To IMDb)

Her outstanding performance as voodoo queen Marie Laveau earned her an Emmy nomination. She was nominated for a second year in a row for her portrayal of side show entertainer, Desiree Dupree.

Previously known for his roles in American Beauty and Hunger Games, Wes Bentley has appeared in three seasons of American Horror Story. He was first featured in Freakshow as the ghost of Edward Mordrake.

His most prominent role in the show has been in Hotel. He played John Lowe, a depressed, alcoholic detectivewho checks into the Hotel Cortez while trying to solve a series of murders. Bentley is a decent actor, but his characters in American Horror Story have just lacked a certain something.

Best known for his incredible work as Michael Langdon in Apocalypse, Australian newcomer Cody Fern may be a fresh face when it comes to the series, but he has proven himself to be an excellent actor with considerable range.

He easily shifts from the calm but sinister Anti-Christ in season 8, to a flamboyant aerobics instructor and camp counselor in 1984. He is yet to be confirmed for a role in season 10, but knowing American Horror Story, anything can happen.

Lead singer of Maroon 5 and former judge on The Voice, Adam Levine has a long history in show business, but had no business being on American Horror Story. Though he was only in a few scenes as a horror enthusiast on a "haunted honeymoon", the scenes felt cheesy, jarring, and out of place.

RELATED:American Horror Story: 10 Things That Make No Sense About Asylum

Most ofAsylum takes place in 1950's Massachusetts, but Levine's characterconnectsthe season with a modern timeline to set up the return of Bloodyface. It was a confusing mess.

If there is one truth, it is that Lady Gaga is a goddess and fans need her to graceAmerican Horror Storywith her presence more often. She had a small role as the ancient witch,Scthach, in season 6's mockumentary "My Roanoke Nightmare", but her true talent shone in Hotel.

Elegant, refined, and as deadly as they come, The Countess is the fierce and fashionable owner of the Hotel Cortezand oh yeah, she's also a vampire. Known for her Oscar nominated performance in A Star Is Born, Lady Gaga brings style and a deep emotion to any role she takes.

Known for playing the snobby mean girl, Emma Roberts is the source of countless memes for her memorable role as Madison Montgomery. One of the most frequently recurring stars on the show, Roberts has appeared in Coven, Freakshow, Cult, Apocalypse, and 1984.

Most of her character have similar traits, andthe trope of mean girl with a little bit of a heart gets tired. Even when the character isconsiderably different, like Brooke Thompson in 1984, there isnt anything particularly unique about the way that Roberts chooses to play them.

NEXT:American Horror Story: 10 Movies And Shows You Recognize The Cast From

Next RuPaul's Drag Race Season 5: Where Are They Now?

Currently working as a freelance writer due to her passion for the entertainment industry, Alexandra is also a screenwriter and has degrees in Film Production and Fine Arts. Along with her work for ScreenRant, she has also contributed to Valnet's sister sites, GameRant and The Things.

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American Horror Story: 5 Actors That Fans Want To See Again (& 5 That Have Been In The Show Enough) - Screen Rant

Federation of India for Sports Aerobics and Fitness, known as FISAF INDIA was created with the intention to promote Sports Aerobics and Fitness in India. Affiliated with FISAF International, this organization aims to promote sports and fitness aerobics all over India and develop it according to international standards.

FISAF INDIA conducts sports events that make athletes prepare for competitions that are conducted from district to national levels and consists of a variety of age groups. FISAF International targets athletes from the age group of 11 to 25 years of age for competitions held all over the globe. However, FISAF India is targeting budding talent from 7 to 15 years of age.

There are 2 major events that are further categorized to allow equality in participation. Sports aerobics has three participating categories which are:-

The second event being fitness aerobics has 3 categories which are team based:-

FISAF International sees participation from over forty countries around the world. Of the six age groups allowed to participate on the international stage, FISAF India has five age groups; however, the events remain the same.

FISAF INDIA aims to develop aerobics across the country and get it recognized and standardized like many other sports that are popular today. The organisation is headed by eminent members who introduced competitive Sports Aerobics in India. It also has athletes competing on the FISAF International World Championship stage from which one of athlete won a gold medal for the country. Athletes have been felicitated by Ex. Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitraji Mahajan and Ex. Chief Minister of Maharashtra Devendra Fadnavis for his achievements. Seeing Indias potential in not just sports like cricket and football, but Sports Aerobics and Fitness can bring out the best talent in the country through FISAF INDIA.

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FISAF Paving the way for Indian athletes in sports and fitness aerobics - The Bridge

Pickleball, a paddleball sport which is one of the fastest growing sports in the country, had 80 people show up the first night it began in August 2019, according to Dias. She also started a Hanford Pickleball group page, which currently has 513 members.

Dias has attended city council meetings and recreational meetings in hopes of getting Pickleball courts in Hanford.

I feel good about it because fitness is needed and I feel like Hanford has slacked off a little bit in that area and were bringing it back now, Dias said.

Growing up in the agriculture industry, Dias has also taught 4-H and for the last 10 years, shes given school tours on dairy farms to promote the industry to school children. After serving the community for all these years, Dias called it normal because its always been a part of who she is.

My passion comes from being able to work with different people, Dias said. My passion is just being with people and meeting with people and [volunteering is] a good way to meet people.

Shes also made lifelong friends with her volunteer work and grown up with many of them. Dias said that some women she started teaching aerobics to at 19 are now 62 and playing Pickleball with her.

Being a part of a small community, weve all stuck together and grown together in fitness, so I feel like when I started Pickleball, I was with a lot of people that I was with at the age of 19 when I started, Dias said.

Shes also had her children grow up with her friends children and then they coached them in sports together or were involved with 4-H. Living in a small community has afforded them the privilege of staying together as a group.

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Volunteer of the Year: Theresa Dias leads the way in fitness - Hanford Sentinel

Department of Public Works Deputy Mayor Fitzgerald Deputy Mayor Fitzgerald reported that the Department of Public Works is in its final stages of restoration from the recent storm repairing curbs and sidewalks that were damaged. DPW will be line striping crosswalks and stop lines in anticipation of school re-openings. Storm drain projects in various locations throughout the Village are underway. The drainage project at Emerson/Lowell Avenues is almost complete except for the street repave, Depan/West Hitchcock Avenues is almost done and then they will move on to Crocus/Elm Avenues.

Finally, Deputy Mayor Fitzgerald offered a public service announcement to advise residents that the N-24 bus route on Jericho Turnpike has removed some stops in Floral Park as part of its streamlining of bus routes to hasten trips. N-24 bus service is still available to Floral Park, however, please visit http://www.nicebus.com to review passenger information for the new bus schedule and bus stops that have recently gone into effect.

Recreation and Pool Departments Trustee Pombonyo Floral Park has begun its transition from summer to fall, especially at the pool and rec center. This summers sunny season at the pool was enjoyed by all. The enthusiasm, spirit and cooperation have been awesome, thanks all around, and the final day of swimming for members and residents will be Labor Day.

If youve taken a trip to the park, especially during the evening hours, you will be amazed by the large number of residents and families who come to swim, play tennis and other sports, watch our Little League games, or simply stroll to take it all in. For a pleasant summer evening experience, try our own Village park. Were open until 10pm every night in September.

And, speaking of Little League, its tournament time! Our baseball and softball teams have had exciting seasons, and our 10U and 12U baseball teams (athletes 8-10 and 10-12 years old) are successfully making their way through the playoffs, competing to win championships. (Breaking news! Our 10U team just defeated Carle Place to win the District 29 championship. Very exciting, congratulations to all!) Other championship games and our Floral Park intra-league games are scheduled this week and next, with the season ending on September 14th.

Love baseball and softball? Come to cheer on our hometown teams. Tournament schedules will be posted on our Little League website at floralparklittleleague.com . Good luck to all our champions!

Now, were focusing on fall and Recreation Session I programs. For youth, theres Kids Zumba, Tiny Tots Gymnastics, Creative Yoga, Gardening and, new this year, Youth Tennis. For adults and seniors, theres Aerobics, Cardio Kickboxing & Toning, Interval Fitness Training, Yoga, Zumba, Knitting, Agility & Strengthening, Exercise, Gentle Movement and Tennis lessons. Registration will take place on September 16th and 17th at the rec center.

Watch for our Fall Recreation flyer and all the details on the Village website and email, and postings on our Village and Pool Facebook pages.

Conservation Society Trustee Pombonyo The Centennial Gardens brick path and surrounding area are also bustling with activity every evening. Bicyclists and joggers enjoy rides and runs around the perimeter of the Gardens. Walkers on the path and others benefit from their outdoor fitness activities in the outer area as well. You can get a spectacular view of sunset from all spots, especially on the Floral Parkway side. Make your evening extra special with a trip to the outside of our beautiful Gardens.

Covert Avenue Chamber of Commerce and Our Businesses Trustee Pombonyo Its back-to-school time, perfect for SHOPPING, DINING & TAKING OUT LOCAL! Visit our local businesses. Its convenient, enjoyable and productive.

Back-To-School Trustee Pombonyo We wish our students of all ages a happy back-to-school season. Although 2020-21 will be a new experience, we wish everyone success and enjoyable times with friends. And, for all our motorists, please drive carefully. School is open. Keep our children safe.

Fire Department Trustee Cheng The annual Knights of Columbus and Keith Fairben Blood Drive was held on Friday, August 28, 2020 at Our Lady of Victory. 182 appointments to donate blood were made and all scheduled openings were filled. There were some walk-ins and those individuals were not turned sway. 182 pints of blood were collected. I have been informed that 182 pints of blood can be used to save approximately 550 lives. Thanks to all of the residents who donated to the Fire Department for organizing and assisting in this worthwhile and lifesaving endeavor.

Again, I wish to thank our volunteers from the Fire Department for the job they did to ensure the safety of our residents during and after Tropical Storm Isaias. As you will see from the Fire Department call numbers for the month of August, the entire department was extremely busy. Calls for the month of August: Rescue 82; Rest of Department 33.

LIRR Third Track Trustee Cheng The following are updates: Work is continuing at the MTA substation on Plainfield Avenue. Retaining and sound wall work will commence on the north side Right of Way on or about September 21st. We have finished reviewing the landscaping plan for the intersection of Terrace and Plainfield Avenues and work there will commence shortly. Also, New Hyde Park Road has reopened for vehicular traffic.

CREW Trustee Chiara The CREW committee is continuing its Jam sessions through the Fall Season. All young adults who play an instrument and have an interest in music are welcome to share this fun opportunity to hone their skills. Marco Conelli and friends will be jamming, sharing their expertise and experiences of playing in a band and songwriting. The sessions are every other Wednesday evening by the shelter house in the rec. center. Wednesday, September 16th at 7pm will be the next session.

Building Department Trustee Chiara The Building Department had its first in person Architectural Review Board meeting last Wednesday evening since the pandemic hit. All went extremely well due to the efforts of our building staff, Renee and Lucille. They put a lot of energy into organizing and preparing for this meeting. Renee was able to electronically display the submitted plans of the applicants along with zooming the meeting to members that were not on site. It was a very well run, safe meeting with all the applicants leaving satisfied. Thanks.

Library Trustee Chiara The Library will be resuming its normal business hours next week, after Labor Day. Monday, Tuesday & Thursdays 10am to 9 pm, Wednesdays & Fridays 10am to 6pm, Saturdays 9am to 5pm and Sundays 1pm to 5 pm. Masks must still be worn and please no congregating.

Many library programs are still being offered virtually. On Friday, a Tinkerbelle type fairy will read a book to our little ones for a virtual story time on the librarys You Tube channel and Facebook page. Please check http://www.floralparklibrary.org for details on this event and for future events. The summer reading program has come to an end and all participants were entered into the Teen Summer Club raffle. Congratulations to Gabby Keeley, the winner of a goodies basket from the Tulip Sweet Shop.

Mayors Report Mayor Longobardi Mayor Longobardi welcomed life scout Matt Santos, Floral Park Scout Troop 55, who is working on his citizenship badge. Trustee Pombonyo also recognized Matt for the award that he received from the Floral Park Lions Club for his essay on being a good citizen. Mayor Longobardi invited Matt to lead all in The Pledge of Allegiance.

Mayor Longobardi invited Village Justice Douglas Hayden to swear in Joan McAllister as Clerk to Village Justice, her newly appointed position. The Mayor and Board of Trustees congratulated Joan and welcomed the McAllister family to the meeting followed by photos.

Mayor Longobardi commented that it is now September and that the Fall season is upon us. Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many fall events are cancelled. The Village invites the residents to the annual September 11th Remembrance ceremony scheduled on Friday, September 11th at 8:30 am at Village Hall.

Thank you to Police Commissioner Stephen McAllister, the Floral Park Police Department and the Public Works Department for making the August 28th Back the Blue rally at Memorial Park safe and peaceful for all of those who participated.

Floral Park schools are opening and the buses will be running. Please drive safely and obey all STOP signs and speed limits. The Floral Park Police will be enforcing all traffic laws to protect the safety of all, especially the children. Please drive carefully.

The Village Election is scheduled for Tuesday, September 15, 2020 from noon to 9PM. All polling locations have all COVID safety protocols in place to ensure a safe voting experience. There are two Trustee candidates on the ballot.

Mayor Longobardi thanked Andrew Weiss, Village Noise Abatement Officer who represents the Village along with Trustee Archie Cheng at the Town of Hempsteads Town-Village Aircraft Safety & Noise Abatement Committee (TVASNAC). Mayor Longobardi welcomed Elliot Weld from Blank Slate Media (New Hyde Park Herald Courier). He also thanked Felix Procaccia from Just the Facts Media for videotaping the Village meeting(s). Mayor Longobardi wished all of the residents well and reminded all to stay safe during the pandemic and continue to wear masks and socially distance responsibly. Please enjoy the rest of the summer. Thank you.

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Floral Park Board of Trustees Reports Sept. 2 - Blog - The Island Now

Zach Berger | The Daily Eastern News

Diamond Thomas, a senior majoring in Health Administration, worked out on an elliptical at the Student Recreation Center. Thomas said it was her first time back at the SRC this semester.

Heather Vosburgh, Staff Reporter September 3, 2020

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The Student Recreation Center is one of the many resources on campus that has adjusted their guidelines for student health and safety.

Paul Noble, the Operations and Programs Coordinator, said one of the main new procedures, wearing a mask is always required for students in the SRC.

We want masking at all times, so anytime youre in the facility you must have the appropriate face mask on, covering your mouth and nose. We encourage people to also wear masks whilst doing cardio machines, so treadmills, bikes, ellipticals, power mills, stairsteps and rowers. If it is too much for them, thats the only exception we will make, Noble said. They can take it off at that point, but we do encourage people to keep them on whilst doing that.

The SRC has also encouraged social distancing by removing equipment from the weight room, spacing the remaining equipment out, and taping the floor around the equipment to show students where they should be while using the equipment.

New cleaning procedures have been implemented in the SRC as well.

Weve increased cleaning stations around the building, so theres more binning (trash) stations. Were closing an hour and a half early every night, doing increased sanitation procedures, Noble said. We have increased staff on the floor, so that between each use, the machines can be adequately sanitized and cleaned.

SRC Director Sarah Daugherty said, there is no checking out of any equipment besides a mat from the SRC office and there are no reserving spaces.

We are not reserving space at all, Daugherty said. So, dance studio, aerobics room, basketball courts, anything. We do not do any reservations at all.

There are still many resources available to students in the SRC, such as group fitness classes, E-Sports (PC only), special event intermural sports and the pool, but in order to use those spaces, a spot must be reserved.

You have to reserve space in a group fitness class, which we have never done before, but that way it allows us to know whos here. Same thing for E-Sports. They have to reserve space in the arena in order to play and we had to space that out, obviously, quite a bit. And then in the pool, we are starting lane reservations. Because of the number of people that we have had, they have to make a reservation to use a lane, Daugherty said. It also allows us to track whos here, so, worst case scenario, we can do contact tracing as well.

If a student is interested in reserving a spot for a class or the arena for E-Sports, they can find the link on the campus recreation website.

Pool reservations are done through the SRC office and they can be reached at 581-2820.

SRC Assistant Director Kevin Linker explained how people can sign up.

Once theyre on IMleagues, they use their PAWS credentials. Just like theyre logging into PAWS, they log into IMleagues that way with those credentials. You get there and theres a spot for the intermural sports, theres a spot for groupex, and then the E-Sports arena. And once you click on groupex, it shows you the weeks worth of classes and which classes are available. If you click on those, it shows you how many spots are left, and you can sign up for a class that way, Linker said. Students can sign up a week in advance, but they might not be available before a week in advance, even though the whole semester is already on there.

The occupancy limitation in the SRC is 350 people at one time, and only 20 of those people are allowed in the weight room at once.

The staff is keeping track of how many people come into the SRC, but, as of recently, their daily use does not typically exceed 350.

We havent had to turn anyone away, Daugherty said.

Basic gym rules still apply in the SRC, so students must follow the current apparel policy.

All the things you would expect to happen in a gym, we still have all of those things in place as well to make sure that were still maintaining everyones safety, not just from COVID, but from everything thats potentially harmful, Daugherty said.

These policies are in place keep everyone in the SRC as safe as possible and protect the student body.

We understand that they can be frustrating, and we understand that theyre weird and alienating, but its there to protect you and its there so that we can stay open. We want to stay open and thats the reason weve put all of these things in place, Noble said. Were doing it for no other reason, but for your benefit.

Heather Vosburgh can be reached at 581-2812 or at [emailprotected]

Original post:

SRC adapts to COVID-19 guidelines this semester The Daily Eastern News - The Daily Eastern News

WASHINGTONShedding new light on how Americans can best protect themselves from burglary, a report from the Pew Center released Tuesday found that the majority of break-ins occur while a security guard is watching an aerobics video and eating a big bowl of chili. Our research indicates that, by far, the most common scenario of forced entry involves an intruder sneaking in during a period when the watch-persons eyes are glued to a jumping jacks routine while trying to bring a particularly hot spoonful of beans, meat, and cheese up to their lips, said lead researcher Donovan Carbo, adding that the security challenges identified were compounded by the fact that the groggy guards rarely looked at the monitor bay until they had already dozed off and fallen out of their chair, dumping the bowl of chili all over their uniforms and the floor in the process. Those looking to keep their possessions safe should also be on the lookout for other common break-in scenarios such as slipping through while a security guard attempts to flirt with an attractive coworker, unfurls and inspects a Playboy centerfold, or calls in to a radio station to win a contest. Carbo added that the crimes often werent reported until after a heavily armed vehicle came crashing through the guard booth and drove off into the night, leading security officers to stand watching with their mouths agape.

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Report: Majority Of Break-Ins Occur While Security Guard Watching Aerobics Video, Eating Big Bowl Of Chili - The Onion