Category Archives: Golden Rule

Were so ready to party, and in case the long lockdown has made us nervous about entertaining again two experienced Lancaster hosts are here to help.

First, theres John Moeller, White House chef during three presidencies and now owner of Greenfield Restaurant and Catering, as well as an enthusiastic at-home host for family and friends.Then theres Donna Landis, who never hesitates to throw a party, be it for a crowd of members of Lancaster Newcomers & Neighbors, the womens group she co-founded in the 1990s, or her own extensive family.

Both warn not to stress over a party. It is supposed to be fun, for the guests and for you.

Accordingly, DONT obsess about details, and, for heavens sake, DONT drink too much before and during the party, Moeller says.

DONT try to make everything Pinterest perfect. Instead DO focus on the things that bring you most joy, be it cooking or prettifying the house. If, for example, you love crafting a pretty centerpiece, DO so, but DONT bore guests with a long tale of how you did it.

DONT wear yourself out cleaning house before a party. Pick up, yes, but guests really wont mind that pile of mail on the desk or the toys that kept your toddler occupied while you made the deviled eggs.

DO consider guests tastes in food, religious dietary restrictions and allergies, Moeller warns.

I had to do that whenever dignitaries descended on the White House, but its a valid concern for the home host as well, he says.

Landis agrees. I always make sure theres a mix of foods to suit all tastes and restrictions, she says. I include dishes that vegetarians and devotees of gluten-free can enjoy, and I make sure there are alternatives for those who dont eat seafood.

DO focus on hospitality, making your guests feel welcome. Guests dont need to be impressed. They need to feel a connection, says Landis, chuckling as she tells of some of her free-wheeling parties.

I have hosted parties in the backyard, the garage, even in the basement, she says.

For Thanksgiving this year, she planned to set up three tables: one in the kitchen, one in the dining room and one in the living room. Paper plates are an option to cut down on washing dishes, she says.

DONT feel like everything has to be the best of the best, Landis says. Thats what keeps you from entertaining more often. DO feel free to serve something store-bought and DO be receptive when guests offer to bring something, but make sure to keep track of whatever they plan to bring. You DONT need 30 plates of cookies. The more control you have, the better the party.

Of course, a super chef like Moeller offers food advice.

DONT try a new recipe when having guests over, he says. Unless you are an accomplished cook. Using tried-and-true recipes will help you feel confident and ensures you wont have any mishaps. DO try to cook as much as possible before the party, so all you have to do is heat things up and add finishing touches.

Landis agrees. She likes to prepare dishes that she can just pop in the oven come party time. And DO be flexible, she says. The food doesnt always have to be fancy. DONT make all recipes that require a lot of hands-on time. You want some energy left for your guests. And if something goes wrong with dinner, just go with it. Improvise, or if that doesnt work, order in pizza. DO laugh it off and move on.

If it isnt a sit-down dinner, DONT place the food in one place. DO set up at least two food stations, preferably at opposite sides of a room, Moeller says. A food line at a party isnt a good thing. In a cocktail party setting, place food in many places to keep people moving and mixing.

Finally, DO keep the conversation civil.

The golden rule at our house is no talk of politics or religion, Landis says. And DONT talk about yourself too much. Youll seem much more interesting if you get your guests talking. DO ask them lots of questions, remember their answers, and then ask them follow-up questions, such as So whats next on your vacation bucket list?

Moeller agrees wholeheartedly.

DONT talk about politics, he says, adding that you really dont need a set topic.

After long COVID lockdowns and separations, therell be plenty to talk about, just catching up with each other.

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Hosting a holiday party this year? Follow these do's and don'ts - LNP | LancasterOnline

Each year, during the AIN FBO Survey, we receive comments aboutFBO staffers who go the extra mile to helptheir facilities offer a great experience. We acknowledge some of those individuals who contribute to enhancing their FBOsservice in our Above and Beyond listing.Below AIN editors Curt Epstein, Kerry Lynch, and Jerry Siebenmark provide a little more detail about some of the individuals who made the 2021 list.

Shannon Auty joined Aero-One Aviation in Dothan, Alabama, in March 2017. General manager Scott Capehart said Auty was a natural as a customer service representative (CSR), quickly becoming an expert in customer experience and service. She also quickly grasped the correlation between top-notch customer service and fuel sales, he said. Pilots love great customer service so in return they tend to buy more fuel, Auty said. She was promoted to CSR supervisor and given the role of social media coordinator for Aero-One Aviation and Aero-One Altitude because she was able to excel in all areas, Capehart added.

I love that our leadership trusts me with our social media and I get to be creative, Auty said. She added that she approaches her role with the understanding that building relationships and trust are key.

Shannon Auty, Customer Service Representative,Aero-One Aviation, KDHNShannon Auty, Customer Service Representative,Aero-One Aviation, KDHN

Katy Brink,Customer Service Representative, Atlantic Aviation, KMTJ

Eleven years ago and with no prior aviation experience, Katy Brink started working at Black Canyon Jet Center at Montrose Regional Airport (KMTJ) in Colorado. Playing with airplanes all day seemed like a pretty cool job, so I accepted it, said Brink, who was recruited for the job by a staffing agency. I was completely new to aviation but knew that I liked airplanes and was in awe of airports and radio communication. Since then, Brink said she has developed lasting relationships, especially with customers who come in annually for a hunting trip or to attend a film festival. I am happy to see them, she explained. Its not selling fuel or getting a paycheck. Its about the friendshipsand airplanes are cool too. Being a good CSR means developing relationships with each customer and knowing all about them. Sometimes I think I know my customers better than I know myself, Brink added. I can remember their stories and where they have been and what they have done. Its about paying attention to the details of each customer and their needs.

Katy Brink, Customer Service Representative,Atlantic Aviation, KMTJ

Amy Brothers, Customer Service Representative, Wilson Air, KCHA

Brothers has been with Wilson Air Center Chattanooga for more than five years, and in that time she has become an instrumental part of the locations customer service team. She believes in always going above and beyond for her customers and enjoys meeting new people every day at work. I treat every customer the same as I would want to be treated. If I can make our customers smile or make their day better in some way, then I am happy to do it. I hope everyone who visits our facility wants to return because they left happy and received excellent service.

Amy Brothers, Customer Service Representative, Wilson Air, KCHA

Jose Cabrera, General Manager, Signature Flight Support, KBCT

Cabrera, general manager of Signature Flight Supports Boca Raton, Florida facility, has been in aviation for more than 17 years and has experience with airlines, a fractional ownership provider, and the FBO arena.

Cabrera thrives in the challenging and ever-changing environment that aviation provides. My career goal is to make a significant positive impact within the aviation industry, he said. I strive to do so by always exhibiting the best attitude, innovation, attention to detail, and a proactive approach. I tell my customers, You can count on me anywhere and at any time.

Jose Cabrera, General Manager, Signature Flight Support, KBCT

Alexsandra Camargo,Brand Manager, Fontainebleau Aviation, KOPF

Camargo brings more than a decade of aviation experience to her role as brand manager for Fontainebleau Aviation. Her tasks include overseeing marketing, branding, communication, and client experience for the Florida-based FBO, and she focuses on sustaining it as the gateway to Miami by touting its capabilities.

Helping customers and solving their problems invigorates her. There is always a way to make it happen and I love finding solutions, she told AIN. When you visit our facility, there are high expectations on who we are and what Fontainebleau Aviation provides. I enjoy delivering upon that message.

Alexsandra Camargo, Brand Manager, Fontainebleau Aviation, KOPF

Kathy Cortez,Customer Service Representative, Pentastar Aviation, KPTK

Cortez has been a member of the Pentastar Aviation team for over 19 years, and her passion for aviation and desire to offer the best possible experience to the customer is what drives her. Her approach involves going above and beyond to keep the customer happy. She answers questions and resolves issues with a positive attitude, which in her opinion, is the best way to retain loyal customers. Pentastar reports that it is incredibly grateful to have Cortez as part of the team and looks forward to another 19 years with her.

Cathy Cortez, Customer Service Representative, Pentastar Aviation, KPTK

Rob Davis, FBO Supervisor/Tech, Gateway Aviation Services, KFFZ

When Rob Davis joined Gateway Aviation Services in Mesa, Arizona, in 2005, he was already seasoned in aircraft operations. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Davis served in both the U.S. and Japan. He began his commercial aviation service with DynAir before joining Swissport, where he was a fuel tech supervisor providing services for more than 13 airlines at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.

He moved into business aviation in the mid-2000s and has now spent more than 15 years with Gateway Aviation Services as a line service specialist, line specialist lead, and FBO shift supervisor. To these roles, he brought not only extensive experience but a deep passion for aviation. This approach has made him a standout, earning him praise for going Above and Beyond.

Davis stresses that he strives to exceed the expectations of Gateways customers. Everyone is a VIP regardless of what airframe they operate, he said. I always make the crews and passengers feel appreciated for using our services. [My goal is] to have them depart with total satisfaction, a smile, and a long-lasting impression of great service.

Rob Davis, FBO Supervisor/Tech, Gateway Aviation Services, KFFZ

Danica Day, Customer Service Manager, TAC Air, KAPA

Day began her career with TAC Air as a customer service representative and after six years in that role, she was promoted to the customer service manager position at the chains Denver location. She believes that every day brings new challenges and experiences. I get excited every time I have the chance to prevent a potential customer issue, she said. Problem--solving is a huge aspect of customer service, and I feel that I see common-sense solutions when others tend to see the more complicated solutions.

Danica Day, Customer Service Manager, TAC Air, KAPA

Jenny Deitschman, Customer Service Representative, Meridian Hayward, KHWD

Jenny Deitschman, one of Meridian Haywards original employees, joined the team before its FBO opened in October 2016. After spending almost seven years post-high school fueling and parking aircraft at Californias Hayward Executive Airport, she took a leave to raise her family. But she remained passionate about aviation and returned to the field five years ago when she joined Meridian.

Her primary focus is on the customers, but she can be found supporting the FBO in multiple ways. We sometimes work line service as well, she said. We help out where needed. She said she looks at Meridian as being a family, adding, I like everything about the company and my job.

Meridian Hayward general manager Carlos Rodriguez said of Deitschman: Jennys love of aviation coupled with her outgoing personality and empathetic nature are just some of the qualities that make her a great CSR. She has the ability to connect with customers on a personal level and provide each customer with a unique, positive experience.

Jenny Deitschman, Customer Service Representative, Meridian Hayward, KHWD

Johanna Echeto, Customer Service Manager, Sheltair, KORL

Echeto has been part of the Sheltair team for five years. She joined as a customer service representative at Sheltair FLL and later earned a promotion to the customer service manager position at Sheltair ORL. She helped establish the first generation of base coaches and was involved in standardizing the companys best practices across the network. Her philosophy on exceeding customer expectations is all about having the right mindset.

Said Echeto: A positive attitude is vital in allowing us to prioritize an outstanding guest experience. Going above and beyond is to listen to our guests wants and needs to deliver the customized experience they expect. Once the culture of going the extra mile is established, its crucial to develop our teams to maintain our high level of service.

Johanna Echeto, Customer Service Manager, Sheltair, KORL

Jenna Emerizy,Customer Service Representative, McKinney Air Center, KTKI

Jenna Emerizy learned valuable lessons early in her career about supporting pilots and passengers alike, and she has applied this knowledge to her current role as a customer service representative at McKinney Air Center in McKinney, Texas.

She began her aviation career in Lake Charles, Louisiana, in 2014, spending three years at Freeman Jet Center. There, she handled everything from booking hotel rooms and reserving cars to catering assistance.

For Emerizy, good customer service is a matter of the Golden Rule. Customer service boils down to treating people how you want to be treated, and if you go that little extra mile, it leaves an imprint, she said.

Jenna Emerizy, Customer Service Representative, McKinney Air Center, KTKI

Amanda Ewers, Pilot, CSI Aviation, KABQ

Amanda Ewers liked working with a local, family-run business and said, it was the obvious choice for me to join as a CSR in 2016. The FBO supported her dream of becoming a pilot and in 2018, she received her multi-engine commercial license and was hired as a medevac pilot, maintaining both roles for the next several years.

I believe that being a pilot and working as a CSR helped give me a unique perspective in that I could think ahead to help pilots and passengers with service above and beyond what was expected because it was how I would like to be treated at any FBO I visited, Ewers said. With that in mind, I have found that the most important traits to be successful in the FBO business are to be kind and to have patience.

Amanda Ewers, Pilot, CSI Aviation, KABQ

Jonathan Garms,General Manager, Wilson Air, KHOU

As general manager of Wilson Airs facility at Houston Hobby Airport, Jonathan Garms is hands-on with the line technicians as well as the front desk. No matter what the task, he is there to help Its taking the time to go the extra mile for someone that shows you care, and Garms does that every day, not only with customers but also with the employees who serve alongside him.

Jonathan Garms, General Manager, Wilson Air, KHOU

Holly Hopkins, Customer Service Manager, Texas Jet, KFTW

Hopkins has been a member of the Texas Jet staff since 2003 and brought industry experience with her when she joined. She has received honors in several industry surveys and believes that when it comes to pleasing customers, its the little things that matter. Like just asking them how we treated them and what we can do better for them the next time; they just want to be noticed and heard, she told AIN. We try to do this better than anyone else and our Culture of Excellence is how we accomplish that.

According to Texas Jet founder and president Reed Pigman, Hopkins was instrumental in blending Ritz-Carltons Legendary Service into Texas Jets service and using it to form the basis of our Culture of Excellence.

Holly Hopkins, Customer Service Manager, Texas Jet, KFTW

Tyrell Jasperson,Line Service Technician, Sweetwater Aviation, KRKS

Jasperson joined the aviation industry in 2018 as an operations specialist at airport-operated Sweetwater Aviation at Southwest Wyoming Regional Airport, following nearly two decades as an ATV and snowmobile repair technician in his familys business. He received training as a ramp attendant, fuel man, and aviation rescue firefighter (ARFF) in his initiation to airport operations, along the way earning his ARFF, Wyoming EMR, and firefighter certifications.

He believes creating loyal customers from every interaction is the name of the game. Customer service begins with a warm smile and fond welcome plane-side, upon arrival, he told AIN. Escorting our guests to the FBO entrance, breaking the ice by answering any questions, receiving any instruction I can clearly communicate, and understanding the customers individual needs. By providing the most professional service and friendly atmosphere I can ensure a safe and pleasurable experience while visiting the Cowboy State.

Tyrell Jasperson, Line Service Technician, Sweetwater Aviation, KRKS

Venus Koenig, Customer Service Manager, Sheltair, KJAX

Koenig, who joined the Sheltair team five years ago, has 20 years of experience in the service industry. Starting as a customer service representative at Sheltair OCF and later promoted to customer service manager at Sheltair JAX, she heeds the words of Maya Angelou: Ive learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.

The culture we instill at Sheltair Jacksonville is to treat everyone like guests in our home, Koenig said. Like family, we take a genuine interest in every guest by taking the time to really listen. Guests can feel the sincerity exude even behind our masks.

Venus Koenig, Customer Service Manager, Sheltair, KJAX

Kawai Lopez, Customer Service Manager, Monterey Jet Center (KMRY)

Kawai strongly believes in good old fashion customer service and welcoming everyone into the Monterey Jet Center family, according to the FBOs leaders. From appreciation events, surprise goodie bags, to throwing epic parties, she loves going the extra mile to make sure everyone has a memorable experience. She is the first one to brag about her customer service staff and loves Montereys annual Car Week because we get to show the world how awesome our team is.

Kawai Lopez, Customer Service Manager, Monterey Jet Center (KMR

Aaron Pederson, Line Service Supervisor, Premier Jet Center, KFCM

Pederson has been a member of the staff at Minneapolis-area Premier Jet Center since 2009. His current role as a line supervisor allows him to demonstrate his leadership and direction in delivering safe and reliable aviation services to the FBOs clients, and he makes a point to know each customer and his or her personal preferences.

Always looking to problem-solve and get the job done before he leaves every day, he brings positive energy to the team and serves as a mentor to new employees. He is also known for aircraft positioning and is considered to be a hangar-stacking magician.

Aaron Pederson, Line Service Supervisor, Premier Jet Center, KFCM

Carlos Robins, Line Service Supervisor, Banyan Air Service, KFXE

When Carlos Robinss career in aviation began 10 years ago, a Banyan Air Service employee saw potential in him and encouraged him to join the team. Robins determined that Banyan was a good fit for him and joined the Fort Lauderdale, Florida FBO as a line service technician in 2014. Shortly after that, he was promoted to line service supervisor and he has continued to grow in that role, attending safety and leadership classes.

Bayan executives highlight his incredible attention to detail and his efforts to get to know and build relations with customers. Carlos is an expert in anticipating customers needs. He takes the time to learn each persons likes and dislikes and will go out of his way to provide assistance even when he is not at work, Banyan executives said.

He also is a go-to person for fellow teammates, they added. As a supervisor, what my job means to me is building those relationships with our customers and internal customers, Robins said.

Carlos Robins, Line Service Supervisor, Banyan Air Service, KFXE

Jessica Rowden, General Manager, Cutter Aviation, KABQ

Jessica Rowden pursued a degree in secondary education at Missouri Southern State College but in the early 2000s developed an interest in aviation that has led to a 16-year career at Cutter Aviation. Rowden joined the FBO chains location as a guest services representative at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport in January 2005. By the following summer, she had already earned a promotion to facility manager at Cutters Phoenix Deer Valley location and the next year she was stepping in as general manager of its Colorado Springs location. In 2014, she moved into her current position as general manager in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

As she has grown as a professional and guided the New Mexico facility, she has branched into industry advocacy and charity, serving on boards and becoming involved with NBAA Schedulers and Dispatchers, Women in Aviation, Wounded Warriors, Ephraim Orphan Foundation, and High Hopes for Colorado.

My goal has always been to work hard to build meaningful relationships with both my guests and my team, as I feel those relationships are the key to any success or failure, Rowden said of her approach to managing the FBO. For me, Cutter Aviations core values of family, friendship, honesty, trust, and respect are not just words on a wall, they are tenets that my team and I strive to provide to our guests with each interaction.

Jessica Rowden, General Manager, Cutter Aviation, KABQ

Yulyanna Silva, Brand Ambassador Supervisor, Business Jet Center, KDAL

After holding roles in digital media and promotions, Yulyanna Silva looked to bring her skills to business aviation. And, when she interviewed for a position at Business Jet Center, we knew she was different, said Cat Wren, CEO of the Dallas FBO. We often say you can teach anyone to do a job, but you cannot teach someone to care. Silva showed those qualities, joining Business Jet Center in 2018, initially as a customer service representative and then as brand ambassador and brand ambassador supervisor.

Since her start, Yuly has quickly learned the ropes and has excelled at multiple roles within the company, Wren said. Her passion for people and genuine attitude shine with our customers and her fellow coworkers. She truly understands that listening to the customer, taking action, and communicating are key to creating an experience for all who come through our doors.

Yulyanna Silva, Brand Ambassador Supervisor, Business Jet Center, KDAL

Bernie Spencer, Customer Service Representative, Sheltair, KDAB

With over 12 years of commercial aviation experience, Spencer has been part of the Sheltair Daytona Beach staff for five years as a customer service representative. She feels that going above and beyond means making sure that the guest is happy and satisfiedand then go extra. The extra sugar coating is what we try to do to make our guests leave happier than expected and come back because they had such a sweet experience.

Bernie Spencer, Customer Service Representative, Sheltair, KDAB

Ysabella Tetley, Customer Service Manager, Henriksen Jet Center, KTME

After serving as a lead preschool teacher, Ysabella Tetley made her jump into a business aviation career in 2018 at the Henriksen Jet Center in Houston, initially as a customer service representative and now as a customer service manager. Promoted to her current role in August 2020, Tetley is viewed by her managers as an absolute rock star for the drive, pride, and joy she brings to her position.

One of her strongest abilities is how she keeps things very positive, even during those tough conversations with customers and employees, said executive director Andrew Perry. The Henriksen Jet Center team and I are very proud of her and glad to have her as a leader in the organization.

Tetley stresses that she enjoys each day and is thankful for the friendships she has made during her time there. I always aim to go the second mile when interacting with our customers and view the level of service they receive as a direct reflection of my own work ethic, she said. I believe this goes hand in hand with loving your job and being prideful about the company you work for.

Ysabella Tetley, Customer Service Manager, Henriksen Jet Center, KTME

Pat Walter, Line Service Technician, Signature Flight Support, KMSP

Walter has been employed at Signature Flight Support for 34 years, working his way up to shift lead at the companys Minneapolis location, and he is well respected by customers as well as his fellow employees.

When asked what he does to go above and beyond, he simply states, Its all about the great team here at MSP and simply treating people the way you would like to be treated.

Pat Walter, Line Service Technician, Signature Flight Support, KMSP

Sara Zarate,Customer Service Representative American Aero FTW

Sara Zarate joined the team at American Aero FTW at Texass Fort Worth Meacham International Airport with a background in hospitality and was hired based on her ability to build relationships and anticipate customer needs.

For Zarate, making personal connections is one of the most important facets of the job. That includes learning the names of every guest, because it makes people feel valued, acknowledged, and seen, she said.

American Aero officials said Zarates qualities include an upbeat personality, kindness, and a detail-oriented approach to her work.

Sara Zarate, Customer Service RepresentativeAmerican Aero FTW

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Above and Beyond | Business Aviation News - Aviation International News

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Diversity and inclusion are talked about a lot these days in the workplace. Thats because diversity is both an ethical imperative for your business and a means to reinvigorate your bottom line.

Building a diverse and innovative workplace if possible for small- to medium-sized enterprises (SME) that adopt some inclusive best practices. Among these is hosting cross-cultural awareness training across the whole of your business.

Cross-cultural awareness training can allow you to optimize your own business for success. However, you must understand the importance of getting this training right if you are to reap the benefits youre looking for. In this article, we explore how cross-cultural awareness training benefits the workplace and how you can better educate your own employees for inclusivity.

Global demographics are changing. In the United States, for instance, ethnic minorities are increasingly making up a larger portion of the workforce, and yet, theyre still underrepresented in leadership positions.

At the same time, the research is clear on the benefits of diversity for businesses that hire more equitably. For instance, diverse executive teams tended to outperform their more homogenous peers by as much as 33%. In addition, diverse teams showed 19% more revenue from innovation.

At this stage in the pandemic economy, it is more important than ever to invest in diversity to support your businesss ability to scale, innovate, and understand its customer base. Diversity and inclusion quite simply give your business the benefit of additional perspectives. When it comes to innovation, this is never a bad thing.

Thats why, time and time again, the data has shown positive outcomes for businesses that have an executive suite that is more representative of the larger public. Diversity optimizes a business for success by fostering empathy and developing an internal company culture that truly places its priorities on its people.

To get there, however, provide your teams with effective cross-cultural awareness training that demonstrates the importance of cross-cultural awareness in the global marketplace.

With cross-cultural awareness training, a workforce comes to recognize the ways they might consciously or unconsciously categorize and stereotype their co-workers and customers. the range of cross-cultural signifiers and various identities represented in the workplace will be broad. To ensure that everyone understands one another well enough to work effectively together, it helps have the benefit of perspective exploration.

This is what cross-cultural awareness is all about. An awareness of other cultures allows you to put yourself in the place of another and imagine what life might be like for them. This is a good standard not only for following the Golden Rule of treating others as you want to be treated but for understanding an audience, as well.

Research shows that cultural differences tend to correlate with sets of shared values and even behaviors. From a business analytics perspective, that is a gold mine. When you assemble a culturally diverse and inclusive team, you gain the ability to apply these perspectives seamlessly across your workflow. In turn, all kinds of opportunities emerge.

For an SME, having a workforce trained in cultural awareness can help you cultivate exactly the kind of working environment you need to be successful. These are the opportunities that follow as a result:

So with an understanding of how important it is to develop a culturally aware workforce, you can begin to explore your options for providing comprehensive training. This means a program that covers everything from international cultures to generational oneslike the difference in values between Baby Boomers and Gen Z.

Cross-cultural awareness training is essential for any company wanting to improve its inclusion standards. To implement training that will really stick with a workforce, youll have to follow a set of best practices, designed to improve the success of inclusive training.

These are just a few of the methods you can employ when finding or developing the right training program for your team:

By following these tips, you can better implement effective training. As a result, youll find its easier to cultivate the kind of engaging, inclusive workplace that readily innovates and grows.

Cross-cultural awareness is one of the most important aspects of a healthy and productive workforce. For a more ethical and knowledgeable workplace, implement awareness training that engages workers and helps them gain insight into a broader human experience. This means training that showcases the value of inclusion and helps workers prevent painful cultural faux pas.

A diverse workplace is optimized for success, so lay the groundwork for that success now with cross-cultural awareness training.

By Indiana Lee, BOSS contributor

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The Importance of Cross-Cultural Awareness Training in the Workplace - BOSS Magazine

When Brunswick residents Jim Grant and Amy Wells stepped into the next frontier of their lives by getting married earlier this month, they did so with an in-person blessing from Capt. Kirk himself, William Shatner.

Ive been a lifelong Star Trek fan, said Grant, who serves as the vice-chair of the Region 10 school board. For me, it was my bible. There are morality tales in Star Trek that you can learn to live your life by, and so Ive tried to emulate some of those finer points.

In addition to his most famous role as Star Treks Capt. James T. Kirk, Shatner is known for other roles in productions like Rescue 911, T.J. Hooker, Boston Legal and The Twilight Zone. He is also a recording artist, author, screenwriter and director.

In October, the 90-year-old celeb made headlines after becoming the oldest person to ever reach the final frontier when he flew on an 11-minute suborbital space flight aboard a Blue Origin capsule.

With around 150 people in attendance, Grants wedding took place about two weeks ago at a hotel in Ticonderoga, New York the home of a Star Trek history museum.

Positioned behind an altar that served as a prop on the original Star Trek set, Shatner delivered some opening remarks, and then recited his original lines from a 55-year-old wedding ceremony scene featured in the episode Star Trek: The Balance of Terror.

Since the days of the first wooden vessels, all shipmasters have had one happy privilege, and that is uniting two people in the bonds of matrimony, said Shatner, reading from the script. And so, we are gathered here today with you, James, and you, Amy, in a sight of your fellows, in accordance with our laws and our many beliefs so that you may pledge your love to one another. Please kiss the bride.

Grant met Shatner in 2017 during an event at the museum in Ticonderoga. In 2020, the Brunswick couple both who are longtime fans reconnected with Shatner in an online meet and greet while quarantining amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

While Wells and Grant were together for around 10 years prior to the wedding, Grant said officially tying the knot was put on the sidelines due to a personal health issue. During the video call, Shatner inquired about when Grant and Wells will be getting married.

Jokingly I said: Well I told my friends Ill get married when William Shatner is at my wedding. And he said: Well, lets do it, Grant recalled. He wanted to promote a message of love between people. You know, love as in a marriage, love as in friendship, just loving each other as human beings and to perpetuate that message.

The museum and tour company in Ticonderoga is called Star Trek: Original Series Set Tour, and according to the website, the collection draws fans from around the world. Exhibits include recreations of what remains from sets of the original Star Trek television show, which was canceled in 1969.

Reflecting on the many takeaways from the award-winning Star Trek series, Grant said that one major theme cementing him as lifelong fan aligns with the message of The Golden Rule.

I think that the general themes that they try to hit is that regardless of our differences, we all deserve respect, and you should care about anyone, whether theyre a close friend or a stranger, said Grant. To go out of his way to do that for us, you know, people that he briefly met online, just kind of shows what kind of guy he is.

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Shatner beams down to Brunswick Trekkies' wedding - Portland Press Herald - pressherald.com

There's nothing more festive than putting up the Christmas tree and going totally overboard with the decorations.

Once you've got your best artificial Christmas tree out, baubles at the ready, the next hurdle is untangling the lights. The Home Depot has shared a golden rule that will make your tree shine extra bright this year.

(Image credit: Cox & Cox)

Sarah Fishburne is the Director of Trend and Design at The Home Depot. Working in Atlanta, she leads a team of interior designers. When it comes to Christmas lights, she has a 'go big or go home' philosophy.

'For live trees and shrubs, use 100 mini lights or 50 C7 lights for every vertical foot,' she advises.

(Image credit: Cox & Cox)

More sparse-looking, asymmetrical trees have proven popular this year, with people embracing slimline trees with a branch out of place.On such trees, Sarah says can use half that number of lights, so you'll only need 50 for every vertical foot.

However, if you want the brightest tree in your neighbourhood, the key is to double that number. 'Depending on your preferences, you may want a brighter tree,' Sarah says. 'In which case you can double the number of recommended lights,' she says.

(Image credit: Cox & Cox)

We knew it, more is always more when it comes to Christmas decorating ideas.

With Black Friday home deals and Cyber Monday offers ongoing, you may just bag yourself some additional string lights at a great price. The Home Depot Christmas lights that have been most popular this year are the Holiday 300-Light Clear Incandescent Mini Lights and the Set of 100 Warm White LED Lights on Green Wire.

You might want to add some festive Christmas lighting to other areas of your home besides the tree to help set the mood. Wherever you're hanging your lights, Sarah recommends starting with 'at least 60 feet' of string lights.

The same goes for exterior Christmas lights, and if you have the time and patience, you can measure your eaves and awnings to determine the exact length of string lights you need.

Turning on the tree lights each morning is one of the joys of the festive season, so make sure you have plenty for that extra Christmas magic.

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The Home Depot's secret to creating the brightest tree with Christmas lights - Real Homes

November 23, 2021

By Mark Cox

The prospect of festive flying is looking anything but jolly this year.

The Transportation Security Administration said that it expected to screen an estimated 20 million people over the Thanksgiving travel period, which began last week. And airports are bracing for near pre-pandemic levels of holiday travel next month as well.

As air travel has ramped up, so have the headaches: expensive fares, canceled flights, airport crowds, sardine-packed planes and disruptive passengers.

Dont worry, though: Jeff Price, Metropolitan State University of Denver Aviation professor, has some expert advice to help you avoid any nightmare trips.

Book early, if possible

Its the golden rule of booking flights: Prices will go up the longer you wait. There definitely is an optimal window when airfares are typically at their lowest, Price said, and thats usually around three months out. But there may still be some good deals out there for the holiday season since airlines sometimes add late flights.

Get to the airport early

The security-checkpoint lines can change, ebb and flow considerably at DIA, which recommends arriving in the terminal at least two hours in advance of your flight. During busy periods, its worth arriving earlier than usual since you may need to navigate around the airport to find your line entrance, especially if youre a member of Clear or TSA PreCheck. Check the DIA website for all the latest parking, airport and flight information and to subscribe for updates.

Remember to mask up

If youre heading to an airport, dont forget your mask. The federal government requires all passengers, regardless of vaccination status, to wear their mask at all times with the exception of when they are eating or taking a drink, Price said.

Id suggest buying a mask that is comfortable to wear, easy to breathe in and doesnt get too hot, said Price, who has travelled by air twice in the past two weeks. Its a worthy investment if you want a more comfortable flight.

Stay Covid-safe and sanitize

A crowded airport is like a giant petri dish filled with germs. To help protect against the spread of Covid-19, the Transportation Security Administration is allowing travelers to bring up to 12 ounces of hand sanitizer, plus alcohol or anti-bacterial wipes, in their carry-on bags.

Check your flight, then check it again

When youre traveling during the holidays, one thing you can rely on is that you cant really rely on anything. During holiday season, Price said, there are always lots of flight changes, delays and, unfortunately, cancellations especially if there is bad weather.

He recommends downloading a flight app so you can regularly check for delays or changes to your itinerary.

Many airline apps, such as FlightAware and FlightRadar, now enable you to track the real-time status of your flight, which is incredibly useful, Price said.

Flying internationally? Check for travel restrictions

Travel rules have been eclectic and fluid lately, so international travelers should carefully check the latest requirements for all stages of their journey.

The Department of State website is a good place to find clear guidance on restrictions regarding international locations, Price said. And Id also recommend checking websites in the actual country youre visiting for additional information, restrictions or rules.

Listen to airport staff

The TSA has warned that its going to be a busy holiday season. And as passenger numbers start ramping up again, airport security staff have a simple request: Listen to them because they can help.

Travelers should pay attention to the guidance TSA officers provide at checkpoints, TSA Administrator David Pekoske said. They could be directing you to a shorter line or guiding you around someone who is moving slowly. And they may give you advice that will lessen the likelihood that youll need a pat-down.

Unruly passengers

Pandemic-era flying has seen an unprecedented rise in air-rage incidents. More than 85% of flight attendants have had to deal with unruly passengers this year. And Prices advice is stark: Dont be one of those people.

Interference with a crew member is a federal offense, he said. Unruly passengers may find themselves under criminal prosecution and ultimately have to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines. Its really not worth it.

If youre on a flight and someone starts acting up, however, then its up to you whether to intervene.

There could be repercussions, of course, just like if you tried to stop a fight on the street, Price said. But in most cases, passengers who assist crew members have not been arrested for trying to help.

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Have a stress-free flight this holiday season - MSU Denver Newsroom

What Marylander had the biggest impact on the state in 2021?

Send your nominations for The Suns 2021 Marylander of the Year to talkback@baltimoresun.com, with Marylander of the Year in the subject line. Well announce the finalists in mid-December and a winner before the end of the year.

As inspiration, heres the roster of The Suns previous honorees:

1987: Steven Muller The Johns Hopkins president won The Suns inaugural award for his relentless drive, intelligence, vision, institutional ambition, smooth tongue and grasp of the possible.

1988: Vincent DeMarco Mr. DeMarco was the essential element in the coalition that won support for landmark restrictions on guns known as Saturday night specials.

1989: Anne Tyler The novelist won the award in the same year that Breathing Lessons won the Pulitzer Prize and The Accidental Tourist became a hit movie.

1990: Robert Linowes Montgomery County attorney Robert Linowes won for the work of a commission he chaired that sought to create a fairer, more equitable state tax system.

1991: Cal Ripken Jr. The Sun honored Cal Ripken after a season in which he was the All-Star game MVP, American League MVP and Sporting News and AP Player of the Year.

1992: Bea Gaddy The Sun said of Baltimores advocate and helper for the poor, Others preach the Golden Rule; Bea Gaddy lives it.

1993: James W. Rouse The Sun said the developer makes people believe. He lends his credibility and contacts and ideas. For lack of a better label, he is called a visionary.

1995: Kweisi Mfume The Sun honored Kweisi Mfume when he took over leadership of the NAACP. His whole life seems to have been mapped out for this day.

1996: Cast and crew of Homicide The Sun said Homicide was so true that a real fleeing shoplifter ran onto a film location and surrendered to actors."

1997: Nancy Grasmick, Del. Howard Pete Rawlings and Walter Sondheim The Sun recognized the three people who made possible a landmark agreement to provide higher funding for Baltimore schools.

Story continues

1998: Peter G. Angelos The Sun said the attorney could easily be Marylander of the Decade. Few have given such philanthropy, and very few have tried to exercise such influence.

1999: Freeman Hrabowski UMBC President Freeman A. Hrabowski III earned the 1999 award for nurturing excellence in mathematics and science among African-American men.

2000: Bill Struever The Sun honored developer Bill Struever because he adopts buildings that others have discarded" and helps them fulfill a potential he sees in them.

2001: The Ravens The Ravens won the Super Bowl and (collectively) Marylander of the Year in 2001.

2002: John Waters Hairspray became a Broadway smash, and John Waters became Marylander of the Year.

2012: Buck Showalter The Sun resumed honoring Marylanders of the Year in 2012 with the Orioles manager who helped bring the team back to the postseason for the first time in 15 years.

2013: Ben Jealous The NAACP head was instrumental in Marylands decisions to abolish the death penalty and enact marriage equality.

2014: Larry Hogan The Republicans improbable win in the governors race upended our notions about political campaigns and shook up the states power structure in a way that will have lasting impact.

2015: Barbara Mikulski The longest-serving woman in Congress has always had an uncommonly good ear for what the common man and woman thinks and repeating it to the powers-that-be.

2016: Kevin Plank The Under Armour CEO was recognized for his bold plan to remake Port Covington and his willingness to work with the community on job opportunities and affordable housing.

2017: Erricka Bridgeford The co-founder of the CeaseFire movement sparked hope that we can make Baltimore a less violent, more peaceful place.

2018: Staff of the Annapolis Capital Gazette After its newsroom was the site of the deadliest attack on American journalists in history, the staff bravely put out a damn paper the next day.

2019: Elijah Cummings Even as his health quietly faded, the congressman from Marylands 7th Congressional District never stopped fighting for Maryland nor urging us toward our better selves.

2020: Kathleen Neuzil and front-line workers In this unusual pandemic year, we chose two winners: Dr. Neuzil for being a leading vaccine researcher at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, and front-line workers in the health care and service industries, who saved lives and preserved our quality of life amid stay home orders.

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Nominate The Suns 2021 Marylander of the Year | COMMENTARY - Yahoo News

Ive been in orthopedic practice in this community for approaching 35 years. Id like to believe Ive either helped, or at least tried my very best to help, as many of my patients as I possibly could. I appreciate the fact that Ive made many of my patients more than that and were also now friends. Friends who trust me to care for them, their spouses, their children, and their parents.

Ive always tried to practice medicine by the golden rule of doing for your patients as if they were your own family.

So I ask you, those that are not vaccinated, or havent received your boosters, to please do so. There are many untruths about the COVID vaccine that exist.

As in anything that happens in health care there is whats called a Risk Benefit Ratio. There are risks in receiving a treatment and there are risks in not receiving a treatment. For those of you who are undecided as to get vaccinated, as your friend, your caregiver, someone that you may have trusted to provide you spinal care, injury care, to care for your families, I beg you, I beseech you all, to please set aside any fears, political standings, the inconvenience and get vaccinated.

At our beloved community hospital alone weve had 135 deaths and sadly the number continues to rise unnecessarily.

Many unvaccinated people have exposed not only themselves but also their families to this potentially lethal virus and the outcome has been deadly.

Our hospital staff has been overwhelmed with the sadness and sense of helplessness that occurs when trying to save someone who is dying from COVID. The human cost to this can be crushing.

Whenever I see a veteran wearing a military hat, I always go out of my way to thank them for their service to our country. As a final note, consider doing the same when you see a health care provider these days. It makes a difference to them I know.

I accept the fact that some will never get vaccinated, but if youre on the fence, and you trust me, please do it, for yourselves, for your family, for our country.

Dr. Paul S. Lin,

Lewisburg

See the article here:

If you're on the fence | Opinion | dailyitem.com - Sunbury Daily Item

Ozark is one of the most popular series on Netflix, and the fourth and final season will release in January 2022. The first seven episodes will come out first, with the remaining seven to follow later. In the meantime, you can check out other movies and shows on the streamer starring Ozarks leading man Jason Bateman.

Bateman is anactor, director and producer who started his acting career in the 1980s when he starred in Little House on the Prairie.He would go on to star in other 80s shows such asSilver Spoons and The Hogan Family.

Since that time, Bateman has become a seasoned actor as well as a director. He has directed Bad Words, The Family Fang and Ozark, and starred in Juno, The Switch, The Break-up, Horrible Bosses and its sequel.

Be sure to check out the movies starring Bateman that are available to watch on Netflix.

This series sees Bateman as the patriarch of the Byrde family, Marty. The title is the location he transplants his family to when he becomes embroiled in a huge money-laundering scheme.

The Byrdes meet many unsavory people who they eventually get into business with to maintain the laundering of so much money. The first three seasons have been outstanding, and the fourth and final is likely to be even more dynamic.

Arrested Development

Bateman playedMichael Bluthon theFox/NetflixsitcomArrested Development from 2003 to 2019, a role for which he would earn a Golden Globe and Satellite Award.

This series follows the Bluths, a once-wealthy and always dysfunctional family. Michael is forced to keep the crew on track after his father is arrested for shifty accounting practices in the family-owned business.

In this superhero comedy, Bateman stars with Melissa McCarthy,Octavia Spencer,Bobby Cannavale,Pom Klementieff,Taylor Mosby and Melissa Leo. This film is written and directed by Ben Falcone, McCarthys husband, marking their fifth collaboration.

Thunder Force is a Netflix original that follows two childhood friends who have discovered a way to become superheroes.

Bateman portrays a villain called The Crab who doesnt have superpowers but has crab legs, complete with claws where his arms should be. There is an interesting backstory to how he acquired his crab claws.

The political thriller State of Play is based on a British series of the same name.

Russell Crowe plays journalist Cal McAffrey, who digs into the story of a suspicious death of a Congressman Stephen Collins (Ben Affleck) mistress.

Dominic Foy, played by Bateman, is a PR executive at a subsidiary of PointCorp, aprivate defense contractor being investigated by Collins for its controversial operations involving mercenaries.

It is a thrilling movie with a great cast that also includesRachel McAdams, Robin Wright Penn, Jeff Daniels and Helen Mirren.

Starsky & Hutch is an adaptation of the 1970s TV series of the same name. Ben Stiller plays David Starsky andOwen Wilson plays Ken Hutch Hutchinson in the comedy action movie.

This movie is a prequel to the TV series and explains how Starsky and Hutch became partners. They are undercover cops in Bay City, California, who bust drug criminals with the assistance of Huggy Bear (Snoop Dogg), an underworld boss.

Bateman plays Kevin Jutsum, right-hand man to drug kingpin Reese Feldman (Vince Vaughn). They develop a new type of cocaine that is untraceable by scent or taste.

The comedy The Sweetest Thing isdirected byRoger Kumbleand written byNancy Pimental, who based the characters on herself and friendKate Walsh (fromGreys Anatomy).

Best friends Christina (Cameron Diaz) and Courtney (Christina Applegate) abide by their golden rule when dating: Avoid searching for Mr. Right and focus on Mr. Right Now. One night Christina meets Peter (Thomas Jane) and hes nowhere to be found the next day, so the girls head out on a road trip to find him. Like any road trip, this one becomes wild with many hilarious moments along the way.

Bateman plays Peters womanizing brother Roger.

Is your favorite Jason Bateman movie or show on Netflix?

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All of the Jason Bateman movies and shows on Netflix - Netflix Life

Construction of a new 8,000-square-foot building dedicated to the skilled trades on the Fauquier campus of Lord Fairfax Community College is expected to begin in February and be open for classes in fall 2022.

An LFCC press release said that the building is being made possible through a gift of 60 acres adjacent to campus from Fauquier County to theLFCCEducational Foundation. The college has been leasing space for trades instruction at Vint Hill, but that site is not ideal for those needs, the release said, and the lease expires in 2022.

With the new trades building, the college will be able to offer trades classes for the first time in Fauquier, and even begin a new carpentry program. Electrical, HVAC, plumbing and heavy equipment operator programs will be held in the new structure.

Providing career training and apprenticeships in the trades requires a custom-designed facility we need flexible labs for hands-on learning, hard floors, high ceilings, state-of-the-art ventilation systems, multiple outlets and drop cords to accommodate the industrial and commercial training equipment, said Jeanian Clark, vice president of Workforce Solutions and Continuing Education, in the press release.

Thats why this new building is such exciting news. And it couldnt come at a better time. With the states investment in the G3, FastForward and Re-Employing Virginians initiatives, enrolling in skilled-trades programs and high-demand career pathways has never been more affordable for students. Our area businesses and industries need our trades graduates, Clark said.

In addition to expanding trade offerings, the new facility will allow the college to explore partnerships with Fauquier County and Rappahannock County schools for potential new ventures, such as a trades academy.

The expansion of trades programs on the Fauquier campus is good news for the home construction industry, saidLFCCFoundation Board Member Joel Barkman in the press release. He is founder and president/CEO of Golden Rule Builders in Catlett.

By investing in the infrastructure to develop the next generation of building trade professionals,LFCCis a valuable partner in addressing the skilled labor shortage. Im proud to support the college, he said.

The foundation, which will own the building and lease it to the college, has established the Building the Future Fund with a fundraising goal of $1.5 million. According to the press release, the money raised will go toward fully equipping the site; bringing in experienced instructors; offering scholarships, and expanding instruction to more fields within career and technical education.

There are naming opportunities for the building itself, as well as spaces inside, according to the press release.

For more information or to donate to the Building the Future Fund, anyone interested may contact Tami OBrien, development officer, at 540-351-1046 ortobrien@lfcc.edu.

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LFCC's Fauquier campus will add building dedicated to skilled trades education - Fauquier Times