Podcasts about Fairfield

Wanachama wa jumuiya ya DR Congo wanao ishi jimboni NSW, Australia walijumuika kwa sherehe maalum katika uwanja wa Fairfield Park, Fairfield, NSW.

The Fairfield Trojans and Fort Madison Bloodhounds faced off in a nail-biting doubleheader, filled with dynamic plays and unexpected twists. Reese Huey and Carson Elmore took the mound, with Huey making an impressive start for Fort Madison. Despite a strong beginning, the Trojans mounted a comeback, with standout plays from Aiden Mitchell and Dane Burkhardt. The game progressed to tense extra innings, where each team showed incredible determination. Ultimately, it was the Trojans who clinched victory in a thrilling final inning, showcasing the grit and relentless spirit of both squads. Tune in to catch all the exciting baseball action that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very last play!

This summer episode of Steel Stories brings you a series of fast-paced, thought-provoking conversations recorded live at the 2025 U. S. Steel Tubular Seminar in Fairfield, Alabama. From industry veterans to emerging leaders, we hear how technology, partnerships, and precision manufacturing are shaping the future of the tubular steel industry.

We spoke with State Senator Tony Hwang about a major vote today with the CT Siting Council regarding proposed UI monopoles impacting Fairfield and Bridgeport. We also talked about the controversy surrounding a proposed sale of Aquarion Water Company to the Regional Water Authority. Image Credit: Drew Carrano

Yeast may be small, but their impact on beer—and brewing history—is enormous. In this presentation, we'll take a deep dive into the fascinating technical journey of brewers yeast. We'll begin with the early days of microbiology, tracing the path from the discovery of invisible life forms to the realization that yeast are responsible for fermentation, transforming wort into the beer we love.We'll explore the evolutionary tree of Saccharomyces species and uncover how different strains of yeast give rise to the wide diversity of beer styles. Special focus will be given to the differences between ale and lager yeasts, both in how they behave and in their genetics. You'll learn how Saccharomyces pastorianus, the yeast behind lagers, is a hybrid between S. cerevisiae and the cold-tolerant S. eubayanus, and how scientists believe this unusual pairing came to be.The talk concludes with a look at the cutting edge of yeast science. We'll discuss how brewers and scientists are now pushing boundaries with genetic engineering, and the creation of novel hybrids, opening new possibilities for flavor, efficiency, and sustainability in brewing.Jonathan Hughes, Ph.D., is the Director of Food and Agriculture Programs at UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education and the microbiology instructor for the Master Brewers Certificate Program. He entered the brewing industry in 2013, when, as a graduate student in microbiology at UC Davis, he founded the QA/QC laboratory at Heretic Brewing Company in Fairfield, California. Before joining Continuing and Professional Education, Hughes served as the quality assurance manager at Heretic while teaching introductory brewing and microbiology classes at UC Davis, Sacramento State University and Sacramento City College.Reach out to Jon at jghughes@ucdavis.eduStay up to date with CBP: http://update.craftbeerprofessionals.org/Save 20% on PLAATO Pro and PLAATO Edge: https://plaato.io/cbp

With Boomer out, Gio and Nicky Cass are hosting as the Mets continue to struggle, losing 9 of their last 10, though Gio isn't panicking given their past turnarounds. Interestingly, the Mets are losing now that Juan Soto is hitting well, contrasting with their earlier wins when he wasn't. Frankie Montas is pitching tonight despite poor rehab starts. Jerry's first update featured the Reds beating the Yankees, highlighted by Elly De La Cruz's big game. Elsewhere, Gilbert Arenas dismissed the Pacers/Thunder series, Mark Schelreth detailed Aaron Rodgers' rant about Jets dysfunction, and the Mets introduced new reliever Dicky Lovelady, while Fairfield athletics signed transfer Jalyn Sackrider.

Hour 1 With Boomer out, Gio and Nicky Cass are hosting as the Mets continue to struggle, losing 9 of their last 10, though Gio isn't panicking given their past turnarounds. Interestingly, the Mets are losing now that Juan Soto is hitting well, contrasting with their earlier wins when he wasn't. Frankie Montas is pitching tonight despite poor rehab starts. Jerry's first update featured the Reds beating the Yankees, highlighted by Elly De La Cruz's big game. Elsewhere, Gilbert Arenas dismissed the Pacers/Thunder series, Mark Schelreth detailed Aaron Rodgers' rant about Jets dysfunction, and the Mets introduced new reliever Dicky Lovelady, while Fairfield athletics signed transfer Jalyn Sackrider. Hour 2 Nicky Cass and Gio discussed the Jets and Giants' tough NFL schedules and Acuna Jr's home run trots, plus a handwashing debate. Jerry reported another Mets loss (angering "Frank The Tank") and a Yankees loss despite an Aaron Judge homer. Netflix released 'Quarterback' and 'Poop Cruise' trailers. The hour ended with Gio's golf tournament nap and talk of caddies smoking weed. Hour 3 Nicky Cass and Gio discussed travel safety and a wild golf tournament experience. Jerry's update covered the Yankees losing to the Reds with Elly De La Cruz's big night, and the Mets dropping 9 of their last 10. Colin Cowherd questioned the NBA's 7-game series format outside the Finals. Finally, Nicky revealed the Yankees' head of security is larger than Aaron Judge. Hour 4 Nicky Cass and Gio discussed content creation and sports "yips." Jerry's final update included Micah Nori interviewing for the Knicks' coaching job, Elly De La Cruz's big night as the Reds beat the Yankees, and another Mets loss despite a Juan Soto homer. The hour concluded with Nicky's excitement for Shane Gillis hosting the ESPYs.

Everyone knows the story of the first manned airplane flight, right? The Ohio-based Wright Brothers flew a biplane more than 850 feet across North Carolina's Outer Banks in December of 1903. That historical event is featured on the license plates and on the state quarters of Ohio and North Carolina. But some people say someone else deserves the credit: a German immigrant named Gustave Whitehead. He supposedly flew his flying machine two years before the Wright Brothers in Fairfield, Connecticut.Additional mixing by Bella Fabbo.Historical voices by Carter Dewees and Bill Buchner.

Connecticut officials have launched a campaign in Fairfield that includes road upgrades to promote safer streets. Governor Lamont vetoes a controversial housing bill. Long Island Republicans urge senators to save Biden-era tax cuts for clean energy. Governor Hochul wants to build New York's first nuclear power plant in a generation. Plus, legendary French chef Jacques Pépin visits New Haven.

This year's top graduating senior at the University of California, Davis is Avantika Gokulnatha. She just earned a degree in genetics and genomics, she'd like to help make aging more manageable for people, she values her art classes in the campus Craft Center, and she prizes research. “Research has always been what I define to be American,” she says, and on today's Davisville she explains what she means, what brought her to Davis, and where she's headed next. This UC Davis photo by Gregory Urquiaga shows Avantika Gokulnatha with Jack McGruder of Fairfield as they talk about how to use an app on an iPhone

This week on Sustainability Now!, your host, Justin Mog, tackles the issue of climate anxiety amongst young people, with three experts who have just released a new study about this topic (https://www.sacredheart.edu/news-room/news-listing/poll-reveals-youth-concerned-about-climate-change-social-justice/). Today's show features professors at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut: Kirk Bartholomew is the Director of the Institute for Sustainability & Social Justice at Sacred Heart (https://www.sacredheart.edu/offices--departments-directory/institute-for-sustainability--social-justice/). Kirk has been an active member of the Department of Biology at for the past 24 years, teaching an array of courses, maintaining an active undergraduate research program and leading several curriculum revision projects. Most recently, he took a lead role in facilitating the development of the Institute of Sustainability and Social Justice initiated as part of Sacred Heart's response to Pope Francis's 2015 encyclical Laudato Sí that called for an integrated response by all people of good will to act on climate change and the systemic issues driving its acceleration. Marylena Mantas-Kourounis is an assistant professor in the Department of Political Science and Global Affairs at Sacred Heart University. She studies education policy and politics, focusing on the enactment and implementation of civic education policies. Her current research projects center around youth political participation, civic engagement, and political trust. She is the author of The Politics of Civic Education: Local Reactions to National Initiatives and State Mandates (Lexington Books, 2024). Todd L. Matthews, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor and Department Chair in the Department of Sociology, Criminology, and Criminal Justice at Sacred Heart University. He joined the department in summer 2023. Dr. Matthews is a broadly trained social scientist and scholar-practitioner with particular interests in civic engagement and participatory democracy. His research has appeared in numerous book chapters, as well as the journals Organization Development Review, Organization Development Journal, Social Forces, Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion, Review of Religious Research, Religions, Sociological Inquiry, Sociological Spectrum and many others. This groundbreaking nationwide survey reveals deep concern among young Americans about climate change, sustainability and social justice, along with a strong sense of responsibility and a call for institutional leadership, especially from higher education and government. The study surveyed U.S. residents aged 15 to 29 to better understand youth perceptions of climate anxiety, institutional trust and their expectations of government and universities. The findings show a generation emotionally engaged, valuing practical and personal skills to act and expecting higher education to respond. As always, our feature is followed by your community action calendar for the week, so get your calendars out and get ready to take action for sustainability NOW! Sustainability Now! is hosted by Dr. Justin Mog and airs on Forward Radio, 106.5fm, WFMP-LP Louisville, every Monday at 6pm and repeats Tuesdays at 12am and 10am. Find us at https://forwardradio.org The music in this podcast is courtesy of the local band Appalatin and is used by permission. Explore their delightful music at https://appalatin.com

AlabamaSCOTUS ruling for TN law upholds the VCAP law now in place in ALSen. Britt blasts Dems who bailed on meeting about Biden's dementiaSoS Allen to access  DHS system and identify non citizens on voter rollsALGOP Chairman John Wahl is considering a run for Lieutenant governorElon Musk posts about the SPLC once again, Musk is definitely not a fanNippon Steel and US Steel deal finalized, Fairfield plant to get $500MNationalTrump says he is not about "forever" wars when it comes to Iran conflictUS embassy in Israel preps for evacuation of US citizens and diplomatsMO Senator Josh Hawley calls for release of Joe Biden's autopen docsWhistleblower on CCP 2020 election interference, says he was fired for revealing the fraudFL Attorney general says medical devices made in China have "back door" for transmitting patient data

From 1875 to 1973, Fairfield, Iowa was home to Parsons College. When the school closed, it left a major void in the community, which that was quickly filled by an another — unconventional — university.

A proposal for UI monopoles in Fairfield is rejected after more than a year of protests. Dozens of No Kings Day rallies are planned for our region tomorrow. Plus allegations of sexual harassment at the New York Philharmonic have shaken our region's classical music community.

Get the inside scoop on how the OPC tours came to life, including the key role Balanced Body played in making them happen. Lesley and Brad share what it's like to be on the road, how they stay grounded during tour season, and why reflecting after each stop matters. This episode is packed with community, purpose, and behind-the-scenes fun. Whether you've joined a tour before or are curious about what it's like, you'll love hearing what's in store for this year.If you have any questions about this episode or want to get some of the resources we mentioned, head over to LesleyLogan.co/podcast https://lesleylogan.co/podcast/. If you have any comments or questions about the Be It pod shoot us a message at beit@lesleylogan.co mailto:beit@lesleylogan.co. And as always, if you're enjoying the show please share it with someone who you think would enjoy it as well. It is your continued support that will help us continue to help others. Thank you so much! Never miss another show by subscribing at LesleyLogan.co/subscribe https://lesleylogan.co/podcast/#follow-subscribe-free.In this episode you will learn about:How the Balanced Body partnership made the OPC tours possible.Highlights from past tours and how they've evolved.Navigating unexpected changes and pivots while on the road.The small routines that keep Lesley grounded during tour season.Why reflecting after each tour helps improve the next one.The real impact of showing up in person and building community.A behind-the-scenes look at this year's OPC tour plans.Episode References/Links:Balanced Body - https://www.pilates.comContrology Reformer - https://beitpod.com/reformerContrology Spine Corrector - https://beitpod.com/spinecorrectorContrology Folding Mat - https://beitpod.com/foldingmatOPC Tours - https://opc.me/tourOPC Host - https://opc.me/host If you enjoyed this episode, make sure and give us a five star rating and leave us a review on iTunes, Podcast Addict, Podchaser or Castbox. https://lovethepodcast.com/BITYSIDEALS! DEALS! DEALS! DEALS! https://onlinepilatesclasses.com/memberships/perks/#equipmentCheck out all our Preferred Vendors & Special Deals from Clair Sparrow, Sensate, Lyfefuel BeeKeeper's Naturals, Sauna Space, HigherDose, AG1 and ToeSox https://onlinepilatesclasses.com/memberships/perks/#equipmentBe in the know with all the workshops at OPC https://workshops.onlinepilatesclasses.com/lp-workshop-waitlistBe It Till You See It Podcast Survey https://pod.lesleylogan.co/be-it-podcasts-surveyBe a part of Lesley's Pilates Mentorship https://lesleylogan.co/elevate/FREE Ditching Busy Webinar https://ditchingbusy.com/ Resources:Watch the Be It Till You See It podcast on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq08HES7xLMvVa3Fy5DR8-gLesley Logan website https://lesleylogan.co/Be It Till You See It Podcast https://lesleylogan.co/podcast/Online Pilates Classes by Lesley Logan https://onlinepilatesclasses.com/Online Pilates Classes by Lesley Logan on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjogqXLnfyhS5VlU4rdzlnQProfitable Pilates https://profitablepilates.com/about/ Follow Us on Social Media:Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lesley.logan/The Be It Till You See It Podcast YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq08HES7xLMvVa3Fy5DR8-gFacebook https://www.facebook.com/llogan.pilatesLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesley-logan/The OPC YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@OnlinePilatesClasses Episode Transcript:Brad Crowell 0:00  You have to be able to be fluid enough to make changes in the moment when something isn't working or isn't making sense, or not necessarily in the moment you have to catch it, you can assess it after the fact and do the post mortem.Lesley Logan 0:15  Welcome to the Be It Till You See It podcast where we talk about taking messy action, knowing that perfect is boring. I'm Lesley Logan, Pilates instructor and fitness business coach. I've trained thousands of people around the world and the number one thing I see stopping people from achieving anything is self-doubt. My friends, action brings clarity and it's the antidote to fear. Each week, my guest will bring bold, executable, intrinsic and targeted steps that you can use to put yourself first and Be It Till You See It. It's a practice, not a perfect. Let's get started. Lesley Logan 0:58  Welcome back to the Be It Till You See It second half of the how did these tours come to be? And Brad is back as my guest. So this is a different kind of cadence, I guess you'd say. Brad Crowell 1:10  Yeah, you know, we're shaking things up a little bit. Lesley Logan 1:11  So we're not answering any of your questions. We're not going to talk about the Be It Action Items we shared with you. Brad Crowell 1:16  But we are going to talk about that amazing guest you had on this week's episode. Lesley Logan 1:20  Oh yeah, yeah. We're talking about you, Brad. Brad Crowell 1:22  It was me. Lesley Logan 1:23  And also, if you want to come to the tours, opc.me/tour, no matter when you hear this, you will always be able to see what upcoming tour there is or you'll get on a waitlist for the next one to come out. But basically, we do two tours a year. So we left off with how we started talking with Balanced Body about our tours.Brad Crowell 1:42  Yeah. So I remember we were at a POT, I think. Lesley Logan 1:46  In Monterey in 2020. Brad Crowell 1:48  No, I think it was before that. I think it was in Chicago, even before that. Lesley Logan 1:51  Well, there was a Chicago one that I talked to them and I planted the seed, that was in 2019. Brad Crowell 1:54  Yeah, but that's the one I was talking about. So we started talking to Balanced Body years prior to their participation, and I remember the conversation with their team. I just remember looking at their operation and literally watching them back a tractor trailer up to the convention center and commenting and going, Wow, you guys have tractor trailers. And the response was, we have three. I was like, you have three tractor trailers? They're like, yeah, look where do you think all these Reformers are gonna go? And they were loading case after case after case of things into the thing. And I was like, wow, it's so much work for you guys to go on the road. And they said, yeah, for us to put on these POTs, it is a massive enterprise to do. Many, many, many people, lots and lots of money. It's so much coordination, so much effort, you know. And I jokingly said, well, you know, I think we can help you guys out with that. And that didn't really come to anything, but I, in my mind, I was like, we could do it for half, you know. And then we got the van, and then we were talking with Ken.Lesley Logan 2:56  What happened is they changed, on the Contrology, they changed how you can do the wheels, the side wheels, how you can tighten them or not tighten them, and they change it to make it easier for people. And so I said, we're all, we're driving to the POT Monterey anyways, because we're gonna have a booth there as well because we had a booth in the October one which was when you kind of planted that seed. Brad Crowell 3:15  Yeah, and for us it was only what eight hours, at this point we've driven across the country multiple times. They're like, yeah, we'll just drive. Lesley Logan 3:20  I said, oh, I'll bring my Reformer. And we weren't even staying at the hotel where the event was. We were just down the street, just because of, like, I needed a really big room. Brad Crowell 3:27  Yeah, you had to do a weekend workshop thing. Lesley Logan 3:29  Yeah, I had to, like, host a weekend event and so we needed a big room. And so I had my assistant at the time, like, literally scoping pictures of rooms and we're like, there's no way we can make this room work, because the beds right there. So we had to stay about a mile a half away from the venue. And so Ken Ubered over. Brad Crowell 3:45  Ken is the owner of Balanced Body. Lesley Logan 3:47  Yeah, so get this, Ken Ubered over to our hotel, during setup of his humongous convention, to change the little silver situation that goes on the back of my carriage, to change the wheels out. Brad Crowell 4:01  Yeah, he brought us wrenches.Lesley Logan 4:02  He just brought a wrench, brought a credit card, so we had also brought our Nespresso machine. Brad made him a cup of Nespresso and so he fixed he like, this is, this is what.Brad Crowell 4:11  We're just chilling out, you know, and he's working on this Reformer, we're just chit-chatting. Lesley Logan 4:16  And then Brad's like, oh, man, I'll take you back to the venue. Brad Crowell 4:18  Yeah. He's like, oh, I'll grab an Uber. I was like, no, you will not grab an Uber. I will drive you, you know. And of course, I wanted him to see the van. Lesley Logan 4:26  Yeah. So he got in the van. He had to see how big the van was. He had just seen that we brought the Reformer. Brad Crowell 4:31  Yeah, yeah. Obviously, we brought the Reformer. But he said to me, oh my gosh, I always wanted one of these when I was in my 20s. I always just wanted to drive around the country. And it's so cool that you guys are doing this, and that's when I got a chance to say, well, this is, you know, we do go on tour, and we are taking, we're already taking a Reformer with us, so that we can show off the Contrology Reformer, right? And he was like, wow. And so, you know, I didn't like full blown pitch him in that moment, but it was like one major seed planted, because he could see it, feel it, touch it, understand it, in a way that wasn't us trying to pitch the vision. He could be in the vision.Lesley Logan 5:09  Yeah. So they actually signed on with us for our first ever summer tour. And so we got to do the west coast because we'd only ever done the East Coast and the middle we'd never done the west coast before we'd pulled them. We want to do a West Coast tour. So we actually did our first West Coast tour. It wasn't very long. It was kind of like a short and sweet thing. I know. We did Las Vegas. We did Los Angeles. Brad Crowell 5:31  Well, somewhere in there, we missed the 2022 winter tour. But we, 2020. Lesley Logan 5:36  Oh, yeah, we did a '22 we did a 22, you're right, we did do a 2022 winter tour. And that got bigger, got back up to the size. Brad Crowell 5:41  Yeah, that was like eight or nine. So we have Cleveland, St Louis, Dallas, Houston, Nashville, Atlanta, Greensboro. Yeah. So. Lesley Logan 5:48  Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. That one, that one was really great, actually, because we got back up to our 2019 numbers and so we were able to say, okay, so we've had four tours, and so we're able to show them like, look now that COVID allows us to do this. Look at these nine cities. What if we, so we did our biggest tour ever, which was the West Coast tour. We didn't do Los Angeles. We started at Las Vegas. Did we even do Las Vegas? I know we did Riverside. Brad Crowell 6:10  For the summer tour? Lesley Logan 6:11  Yeah. We did Redlands. Brad Crowell 6:13  Redlands, Long Beach. Lesley Logan 6:14  Long Beach. Brad Crowell 6:14  Bakersfield. Lesley Logan 6:15  Bakersfield. Brad Crowell 6:16  Central Valley, Hanford, Fresno. Lesley Logan 6:18  Yeah it was near Fresno. Brad Crowell 6:19  Modesto. Lesley Logan 6:20  Modesto. You guys were hitting some of those great I-5 cities. Brad Crowell 6:23  So that's five. Yeah, we did Fairfield. Lesley Logan 6:25  Yes. And we did Sacramento. Brad Crowell 6:27  Sac. Lesley Logan 6:27  And then we did a tour of Balanced Body, even though we've done it before with Ken, we did a tour so that our OPC members could see how it's all done. It was so fun. They do amazing work at Balanced Body, just being great on the environment. Then we did. Brad Crowell 6:40  Bend. Lesley Logan 6:40  Bend, Oregon. Brad Crowell 6:42  Portland. Lesley Logan 6:42  Portland. That was so fun, too, Seattle, and then. Brad Crowell 6:46  Spokane. Lesley Logan 6:47  Spokane and then we dropped down, had a couple days off in Idaho. And then we got all around St George, Utah. Brad Crowell 6:54  So we did 11 stops. Lesley Logan 6:55  11 stops, it was our biggest one, and it was so fun. And we got to see how hot it could get. So then the van got a fan. Brad Crowell 7:05  We also did that whole tour in two weeks. Lesley Logan 7:07  In two weeks. Brad Crowell 7:07  It was like 16 days. Lesley Logan 7:09  It was really. Brad Crowell 7:10  It was zipped through 11 stops in 16 days. Lesley Logan 7:13  It was, yeah, there's a heat wave. So I was not, I was okay with zipping through. Then, because of that went so well and Balanced Body was so great with that that they joined us for our winter tour in 2023 and then we really able to like. Brad Crowell 7:26  But that's when I think things really blew up. Lesley Logan 7:27  Yeah, I don't think it was our, it was our biggest tour, for sure. It beat the 11 cities, but it wasn't our biggest, biggest. Then, last year, you want to go through them? Brad Crowell 7:36  Sure. We did Vegas, St George, Denver, Lawrence, Kansas, St Louis, Missouri, Cleveland, Ohio, Saratoga Springs. That was a private event. Boston, t hen Providence, private event. Brooklyn. We had to cancel New York City because nobody was in town. Hershey, Pennsylvania, Greensboro, North Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, Miami, Sarasota, that's the first time we did the inside of Florida. Then Austin, Dallas, Albuquerque, Sedona. So by far, this was the largest one of the 19 cities. Lesley Logan 8:10  Yeah, then we did a summer tour with the Midwest. Because if you've noticed, we've been skipping Chicago for a while. So we have been alternating the West Coast, with the Midwest, and so this is how we decided, like, okay, so you need to know, after every single one of these tours, we reflect about, like, what went well, what cities went well? Will we go back, how the people like it, how much effort was it, how great was the host? You know, if we love the host, obviously it's amazing for us to want to go there. If the host works really, really hard, then, of course, we want to continue to work with them and support them. But we also discovered that my voice, as I get older, my voice can only do. Brad Crowell 8:47  I don't think it's just because you're getting older. We had you working nine days in a row, literally teaching class nine days in a row. By the ninth day you were fried. Lesley Logan 8:56  And some of these studios, they're acoustic. Brad Crowell 8:58  You're not a day older than 29, love. Lesley Logan 8:59  Thanks, baby. Some of these students, the acoustics are not awesome for that, because you have to get your voice to carry and all these things. And so, at any rate, you'd think, well, Lesley, don't you teach all day? No. No, I don't. No, I don't. In fact, when I. Brad Crowell 9:14  Come on, you do talk, you do talk most of the time, but like this is different than trying to yell in a warehouse, you know, like. Lesley Logan 9:20  Yeah, and get people's attention in a warehouse, for sure, some of them have music going on, the whole thing. So, at any rate, we've made changes to the tour. So you'll notice with tour schedules since summer of the Midwest. Brad Crowell 9:31  Well, that, so the Summer Tour was only 13 stops, but we did it in 16 days. Yes, we were flying through. Lesley Logan 9:36  We made changes that we can only do max six days in a row before a day off, five is more ideal. Brad Crowell 9:42  But this was a major change for us, where, whereas, like, all right, we have to be very intentional about the breaks that we're putting in. Because one, things Lesley mentioned at the beginning was, how does she maintain her consistency? How does she maintain her you know, how do you do that stuff? Lesley Logan 9:57  So these tours, because I don't want to do them, because it's a job. We actually truly enjoy doing the tours. We have so much fun. I mean, I get to hug hundreds of people. It's so great. And it really, actually makes me go, oh, I wanna teach all the time. And then I'm actually like, no, actually, I really love my life, but I love that I get to see so many of you that I only see on like, I only get to read words on the internet. I get to see you in person. I could touch you and like you're three dimensional and all the things. We really love doing it, we also want to be able to be as present as possible. And so after every tour, we always reflect back, do we have enough time in that city? Do we have enough time to do this? You guys, I must work out so I do not teach all these people Pilates, and I don't get workouts in. And so every schedule we have to make sure that five days a week, I have time at a gym. I have time to move before I'm teaching giving me space to go the gym at 11pm at night is not space to work out. Also, I have to make sure that I get to have seven hours of sleep, very important. So all the things that I preach about prioritizing myself first, those things happen on tour. Brad Crowell 10:57  People always ask us how do you maintain your routine when you're completely jacking up your routine?Lesley Logan 11:02  Yeah? Well, you can speak to this. You guys use a really cool app that plans out everything, because he'll kind of drive late at night while I'm sleeping, so I can go to bed early, and I'll wake up and it will say like you're working out from this time to this time. Then you're driving here to get coffee, and then you're driving here to do this thing, and so that I have time to do my thing for myself while you're sleeping.Brad Crowell 11:22  Yeah, so we take shifts, because just the nature of our brains and our bodies, I usually stay up late. Lesley usually gets up early, especially when, when it was the COVID trip that was crazy, like the van almost never turned off. We just kept going. Lesley Logan 11:36  We were so nervous about touching anything. Brad Crowell 11:37  I sleep, you drive, and while you were sleeping, I would drive, and we'd just go, go, go. Lesley Logan 11:42  That was very different. That was also just like a very different time in the world. We were, like, afraid. We still wondered if you got COVID from gas station handles and we were going to see people at Christmas, and we had to do like, a three-day hangout at your parents' house.Brad Crowell 11:55  But the point is that we were overlapping on purpose while one was sleeping, the other was driving. Now it's a little less. The maximum amount of driving that we're trying to do in a day is, like, no more than eight hours. And that's still a lot, you know, so we've started to slow it down, which has since then made the tour longer, but it makes it a lot more enjoyable so.Lesley Logan 12:17  We also get to like, see places now, because and we have the dogs, well, now we just have one dog. We should tell them funny stories about the dogs before we wrap this episode up. But we like make sure that they get walks, and we take it through really beautiful habitat preservations that allow for dog walking. We get to see some really cool thing.Brad Crowell 12:33  We stopped in Kansas by, like, one of those big tank memorials and threw the ball. I mean, you know, like this, all these things that we do. Then the Winter Tour 2024 with the support of Balanced Body. And we had some other sponsors, too. Yeah, we had 21 locations, 21 stops. But in order to meet these new requirements of no more than six days in a row of teaching, how do we drive eight hours or less a day? How do we make sure that we've got time to do some workouts. By the way, we're interested in seeing White Sands National Park on this trip. Can we do that, you know, like stuff like that. How do we work all that in? Well, it ended up making, making the trip 34, 35 days. But we actually went the longest. We drove 80, over 8000 miles. Lesley Logan 13:17  Yeah, we got to go to some great places. And also, if you're like, this sounds so amazing, guys, everything works out for you. Just so you know, pretty much every tour there was a dud city.Brad Crowell 13:24  Oh yeah, we had to cancel. It would have been 22 cities on the Winter Tour, and we, unfortunately, had to pull one because we just had no one participate.Lesley Logan 13:33  And we and talk about like the last time was that perseverance, we paid people to scour emails and Instagram handles for three hour drive away to be like, okay, well, what if we get these people from this state to come in? What if this people from this state come in? They could do with this. Brad Crowell 13:47  I mean, I would drive and just call, literally, I would call studio after studio after studio. Lesley Logan 13:51  And we had people say, and it was a lovely house. And she's like, no, people are just last minute. We're like, girl, it's 48 hours before. This is as last minute as we, no, we're not driving up there. So again, we don't take it personally. It sucks. We always do reflect, like, what could we have done better? Was it the time of day? You know, we've had cities that have done really, really well two years in a row, and then have a dud year, and we're like, oh, what happened there? And it's like, oh. So this next Winter Tour, we're flipping two cities because we're like, oh, you know, we did them before Christmas and then after Christmas. And this year we switched that, and that didn't go well for either one of them. So you start to learn the seasons of things, and you have to know that it's not personal, but the reflecting after every tour really helps us make each tour even better. And we're six weeks, five weeks away from our eighth tour, and it's gonna be epic. It's gonna be amazing. It almost feels like a vacation.Brad Crowell 14:38  A little bit more time-condensed, so we're a little over three weeks, but we're at doing almost 19 stops. So that's, that's intense. Lesley Logan 14:46  Three of them include Canada.Brad Crowell 14:48  Yeah. So we're, we're doing our best here to get to do our first international tour. I mean, we are going, so. Lesley Logan 14:55  We're going. Just so you know, these tours also are a huge investment. There's a reason why we have a sponsor with Balanced Body. They really help us actually be on the road for that long because when you're on the road for that many weeks, you're having three plus meals a day on the road. All that adds up money, the gas, depending on what state you're in, is insane, right? So there's that we do. We try not to use a hotel at this point because we have the van, the investment we've made in the van, you know, to make it so we can live in all of that kind of costs money. And so there are things that have failed on tours where, like, like, those stops that haven't made money or haven't, haven't, had been canceled, but having a sponsor that allows us to, like, really be on the road for that long, so that we can do these stops and we can see all of you, but to get to Canada, we're investing thousands of dollars to make it happen.Brad Crowell 15:41  Yeah, had to pay an attorney to help us with paperwork and it was like. Lesley Logan 15:44  Because you can't just work wherever you want to work. You can't just do that. So we're super, super excited to be one of the first people that actually do a big Pilates event. There have been other Pilates events in Canada. I don't want to discount those ones that are happening in Balanced Bodies in Montreal.Brad Crowell 15:59   It's like, it's the thing that's exciting about this is it'll be our first international tour. Lesley Logan 16:03  Yes, yes. I know people are like, when are you going to do a European tour? So I used to think it was like two years away after what we're doing for Canada. You guys, I gonna tell you right now, that's a five year plan. Because, like. Brad Crowell 16:13  Yeah, we so we're thinking about, how could we do this, you know, in Europe and Australia. Because, like, eventually for us, that's the vision. We want to go see those places. We want to spend the time, I think, for us to drive around Australia, to do it right, it's going to take us five to six weeks of driving, like, that's a lot. Lesley Logan 16:28  And we're going to have to rent a van there. We're certainly not going to take one. I was thinking about put some magnets on it. But also, there are actual laws about what we can do, and we don't do these things quietly. So, so if you live in Australia or Europe, and you want us to do tours there, you should definitely reach out. We keep a list of people who love to host. And we do need hosts. These tours, they happen when there's hosts. But also, and that goes for anyone in the States as well. You can actually put your place on there. But also, we're gonna need legal help, because, like we're talking immigration attorney help, which is not cheap, by the way, very expensive, so that we can actually do these things. So what we thought would be like in two years, I'm realizing, is probably a few years in the making. But we want to make this happen. We want to be part of it. That's why we're actually telling you the behind the scenes on how these tours work. So opc.me/tour is where you go for tickets, but opc.me/host is where you go to apply to be a host. Okay, so funny stories about the dogs. First of all, we used to do these tours with three dogs. Brad Crowell 17:29  Three. Lesley Logan 17:30  And then Gaia's last tour was Summer Tour 2024. Brad Crowell 17:33  Well, her first last tour. Lesley Logan 17:35  Her first last tour was Winter 2022. Brad Crowell 17:38  So, was it winter? Lesley Logan 17:40  Oh, yeah, Winter Tour 2022. Brad Crowell 17:42  It was Winter Tour, you're right.Lesley Logan 17:43  And then it was, her first last tour was Summer 2023 then her second last tour was, was winter 2023 and then. Brad Crowell 17:52  Her actual last tour was Summer '24. Lesley Logan 17:53  You guys, before we started, she, you guys, she did not want to go. We were, the van was loaded up, the boys were in it. The boys, because the boys, once we start loading the, putting stuff up to load in. They are like, in the van. Brad Crowell 18:03  Yeah, they do not want to be left behind, so they're sitting in the van watching us. Lesley Logan 18:07  It is hot as fuck outside. And they're like, no, I need to be in the van. I'm like, okay, but the doors are wide open. I can't be in the van. And they're freaking out. They're, they're just, you know, very nervous. And she, so we have the whole van loaded up. The boys are in the van. We go Gaia, and she comes and looks at the door.Brad Crowell 18:22  She comes out onto the front porch, stares at us. Lesley Logan 18:26  And she goes back inside. Brad Crowell 18:27  Turns around and goes back in the house. She's like nuh-uh.Lesley Logan 18:30  And we forced her, we forced her to go on this tour. And she was at this point, sleeping 20 hours a day, just anyways, she was having a hard time with her back legs. We're carrying her everywhere, which we've been doing the last two tours. Brad Crowell 18:41  And we had to lift her in and out of the van. Lesley Logan 18:42  Lift her in the van, and then, okay, so on this her on her final, final, last tour, she had an accident in the bed, and that was really unfortunate, because we're on the road now. We've got a dog, but that has to get washed. We don't always have time for a, like, a wash and, like, I don't know what you call this, like a fluff and fold. So I'm in Kansas City teaching a class, and while I'm teaching, Brad leaves to go bathe her. So he finds a place that he can bathe her, and he has to leave because it's hot out. He has to leave.Brad Crowell 19:12  So the timing of things, we have a very tight timeline. Lesley Logan 19:16  He leaves the car running with the dogs in the van and the boys. Brad Crowell 19:20  Wait. So, hold on. You're teaching the class. You're teaching the workshop. I have, literally, I have 90 minutes to get up and out, find a place, turn it around, wash the dog, get back. Right?Lesley Logan 19:34  Yeah. So he pulls up to this dog place. Brad Crowell 19:37  Well, the first one I pulled up to, it says on Google Maps that they have a thing in there to wash them. They don't. And I was like, are you, are you kidding? I just wasted 10 minutes coming all the way over here, and you don't have what I need. Lesley Logan 19:49  Yeah, so, so then he now has to go the next one, right? So he goes to the next one. He leaves the car running because it's hot out. It's like 90 something degrees. He leaves it running. And the boys are in the passenger seat, watching Brad take Gaia into the van. They're not okay with this. The pack is not together, somehow, though, while he's washing Gaia, so she's in this tub. Brad Crowell 20:10  So they're in the van, I'm in the store. But the the van's running so that the AC could be blasting. And August. Lesley Logan 20:18  Pressed the window button. Brad Crowell 20:19  He goes to the driver's seat, and shoves his nose, but he touches, he steps on the window button, and the window goes down, and sure enough. Lesley Logan 20:27  Jumps out. Brad Crowell 20:28  Two dogs jump out of the van. Lesley Logan 20:29  And they go up to the store, which has those doors that open by themselves. Brad Crowell 20:32  So before that happened, I'm in the back of the store, and I'm washing Gaia, right? She's covered in shit. All of a sudden, up at the front of the store, I hear, oh no, oh no, right, and this now there's multiple people yelling oh no. And then this lady's running down the store, and she's yelling, hey, sir, sir, I think your dogs just got out of the van. I'm like, holding the hose, and it's one of those timer things. So, like, I'm like, all right, I guess I'm gonna have to get more of that once I figure this other thing out. So I throw the water that's already it's still coming out. I just throw it and like, I'm like, Gaia, you stay. And she's looking at me, like, how could I possibly go anywhere? Right? And so I'm running out towards the van right at the same exact time the double doors of this big dog store open, and both August and Bayon come running into the store.Lesley Logan 21:21  Yeah, they ran into the store. So thankfully, they ran into the store and not, like, down the street. I don't even know what we would have done. At any rate.Brad Crowell 21:28  Yeah, I was, like, I was, because there was a parking lot. Like, there was hundreds of cars. It would have been terrible. Lesley Logan 21:33  Yeah. So they ran into the store, so Brad has to get them. Brad Crowell 21:36  So now I got all three dogs in the back, in the dog washing area, because I'm like, screw it. You guys are with me now. We're just gonna all hang out here. Finish washing Gaia. I blow dry Gaia down. And they were like, hey, can we get you a leash? Because the leashes were in the van. It wasn't like that, you know, so, and I was like, that would be so helpful. So they helped me, like, get the dogs on a leash. And, you know, we troop out of it, and everyone's happy because, you know, the dogs came to be with the pack. Lesley Logan 22:04  Yeah, so. Brad Crowell 22:06  Oh, and then I had to zip back just in time for the end of the workshop so that I could do the raffle. Lesley Logan 22:10  And I'm like, wrapping up this workshop, and he's not there. And I'm like, where the fuck is he? Because I can't, I don't know what I'm raffling off like I had to check people into this next thing. I had no idea this was going on. Anyways, oh my God. So this tour we. Brad Crowell 22:24  Chaos. Lesley Logan 22:25  This tour will be not chaotic. Future tours will not be chaotic because we have one dog. Brad Crowell 22:30  Yes, he's very chill. He just wants to lay next to you.Lesley Logan 22:33  He's very chill. Just wants to lay down. He wants to just be there. So I think it was so this is where we're at. No more shenanigans. Real easy. Roll in, roll out. You guys. We have two tours this year. We have a summer tour in the West Coast, into Canada. Please tell your friends, come make a trip out of it. We're doing some really cool cities. We're going to places you're going to want to travel to, and obviously, East Coast, the South check our Winter Tour list. And if you are living anywhere in the world and you want a tour stop, feel free to go to opc.me/host but opc.me/tour get tickets for you and your friends.Brad Crowell 23:06  If you want a tour stop, meaning you would like to host us, go to opc.me/host. If you would like information about the tour itself, go to opc.me/tour.Lesley Logan 23:16  And all of the classes and workshops are for all levels, so your friends and your family can come. These are not made to be only for teachers. There are CECs for the teachers. And again, our headlining sponsor for these next two tours is Balanced Body and Contrology. Oh, and now we have a contour kit, because we're bringing a Reformer, a mat and a Spine Corrector, so you guys can try those things out.Brad Crowell 23:40  Not a chair? Lesley Logan 23:41  No, we didn't buy the chair. Brad Crowell 23:42  Oh, I thought we did.Lesley Logan 23:44  No, we talked about that. Brad Crowell 23:44  All right, failed. Well, that's fine.Lesley Logan 23:47  I would love another chair. But we discussed that. Brad Crowell 23:50  It is big. It's just a lot.Lesley Logan 23:53  We discussed it. It was not the right thing to buy it until the van's more set up,Brad Crowell 23:58  Yeah. So anyway, come try out all that fun stuff. So what would you say would be a Be It Action Item for this episode? Lesley Logan 24:06  Oh, just go buy a ticket to our upcoming tour, because you're gonna have the best time. You're gonna be in community. If you feel lonely, or if you feel burnt out, or if you feel exhausted, then you come on this tour and you, I fill your cup. I prioritize you, I answer your questions. You get to see people you pass as two ships. You get to maybe meet up with people you had no idea love Pilates the same way you do. These literally bring people together. And it doesn't matter how you started Pilates, how many years been doing Pilates, if you teach who trained you. I don't give a fuck. Being in community is the be it action item. It's important.Brad Crowell 24:45  Cool. So my Be It Action Item is when it comes to projects like this, don't be afraid to make changes after you've decided this is how it should work, right, because, for example, if we didn't sell tickets to a spot why are we driving there, right? And that's a bummer, and that's frustrating, but you have to be able to be fluid enough to make changes in the moment when something isn't working or isn't making sense, or not necessarily in the moment, you have to catch it, you can assess it after the fact and do the post mortem, right? For example, from the Summer Tour '24 to the Winter Tour '24 we decided you clearly shouldn't be teaching nine days in a row. That is not healthy, right? So therefore we put a hard stop six days maximum on the way out to Philadelphia. We only taught one stint of six days. Everything else was five, four days in a row before we took a day off on the way back from Philadelphia, same thing, we only had one stint of six days because we were making adjustments and making changes. So, yeah, but I still agree with you that you should come join us because of community. It is so important, especially now with our virtual world, with loneliness being higher than it's ever been, with social media not helping any of us actually function in our own lives. Even though we've been sold this story that somehow it's gonna connect us better, it fucking doesn't, and it's just making us lonelier. So what we're trying to do is actually bring together people in real life, so that we can support each other and be around each other, because we need it. So we would love to meet you, come join us on these tours. Brad Crowell 26:22  Yes, all right, loves, until next time, Be It Till You See It. Brad Crowell 26:25  Bye for now. Lesley Logan 26:27  That's all I got for this episode of the Be It Till You See It Podcast. One thing that would help both myself and future listeners is for you to rate the show and leave a review and follow or subscribe for free wherever you listen to your podcast. Also, make sure to introduce yourself over at the Be It Pod on Instagram. I would love to know more about you. Share this episode with whoever you think needs to hear it. Help us and others Be It Till You See It. Have an awesome day. Be It Till You See It is a production of The Bloom Podcast Network. If you want to leave us a message or a question that we might read on another episode, you can text us at +1-310-905-5534 or send a DM on Instagram @BeItPod. Brad Crowell 27:10  It's written, filmed, and recorded by your host, Lesley Logan, and me, Brad Crowell. Lesley Logan 27:15  It is transcribed, produced and edited by the epic team at Disenyo.co. Brad Crowell 27:19  Our theme music is by Ali at Apex Production Music and our branding by designer and artist, Gianfranco Cioffi. Lesley Logan 27:26  Special thanks to Melissa Solomon for creating our visuals. Brad Crowell 27:30  Also to Angelina Herico for adding all of our content to our website. And finally to Meridith Root for keeping us all on point and on time.Transcribed by https://otter.aiSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/be-it-till-you-see-it/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Live from Hidden Paradise (north of Fairfield) for our annual Camp Rainbow Gold show, Boise State AD Jeramiah Dickey and his monthly KTIK appearance - now paying players directly, Bob with a summer preview of Mountain West QB rooms in Bronco Focus, BSU & NFL camp reports on Kellen Moore and Ashton JeantySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Live from Hidden Paradise (north of Fairfield) for our annual Camp Rainbow Gold show, Boise State AD Jeramiah Dickey and his monthly KTIK appearance - now paying players directly, Bob with a summer preview of Mountain West QB rooms in Bronco Focus, BSU & NFL camp reports on Kellen Moore and Ashton JeantySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We spoke with Fairfield First Selectman Bill Gerber about housing and the proposals around UI monopoles. Gerber wrote a letter to the governor urging him to veto the massive housing bill (House Bill 5002). We asked him about his take on the controversial legislation and its impact on Fairfield. We also talked about a hearing this week around the latest move to bring UI monopoles to the town. Image Credit: Getty Imagess

In this episode of Round Guy Radio, Coach Griffin Dean of the Burlington Greyhounds discusses the team's impressive start to the season, maintaining a 5-0 record in their conference. Sponsored by Wyatt Moore and the Livestock Risk Management Partnership, the conversation delves into the strategies contributing to the team's success, particularly their standout pitching rotation and improved hitting approach. Coach Dean highlights the significant contributions from players across different classes, emphasizing the role of senior leadership and the promising performances from underclassmen. The discussion also covers the team's focus on reducing strikeouts, which has fostered a more effective offensive strategy. The episode explores the Greyhounds' strong defensive plays and the collective team spirit that has become a cornerstone of their performance. With upcoming matches against key competitors, including a crucial game against Fairfield, Coach Dean sheds light on how the team is gearing up to maintain their conference dominance.

A new recreation center dedicated to people with disabilities seems to be in the works for the town of Fairfield. For more details on this multi-million dollar project, Fairfield Chief of Community Services Anthony Calabrese. Image Credit: Getty Images

Join Round GuyRadio for an exhilarating baseball showdown between the Washington Demons and the Fairfield Trojans, two titans of the sport with a fiercely competitive history. In this intense matchup, watch as the Trojans seek redemption after last year's nail-biting extra-inning conference championship victory, with Ethan Bisgard making an unforgettable debut, scoring the winning run. Fans are treated to expert commentary, play-by-play insights, and interviews with players as the teams go head-to-head in this high-stakes game. Experience the passion, skill, and drama of local baseball at its finest.

Welcome to the Monday Edition of the Business News Headlines for this the 9th day of June, we're glad you're here.  Coming up today some sad news from the world of music. In other news, Warner Brothers and Discovery are splitting into two companies.  In other news, Apple held a developers conference and is trying to up its game.  Some sobering news out of Canada came out today and we'll share. We've got the Wall Street Report and canned food is about to get more expensive. For the conversation, we're on assignment and coming to you today from Fairfield, Iowa. Why? Because of the four day event held each year somewhere in the state.  This is the Great Eastern Iowa Tractorcade hosted by News/Talk 1540 KXEL and somebody has to run it. Meet Matt Kenney a Multi-Media Sales Rep and the Tractorcade Event Manager for NRG Media. Here we talk about what goes into creating something that has become huge over the 26 years it's been around. Also the two reasons we're here talking to tractor lovers about the National Tractor Parts Dealer Association. Good stuff all around.  Meet Matt: Thanks for listening! The award winning Insight on Business the News Hour with Michael Libbie is the only weekday business news podcast in the Midwest. The national, regional and some local business news along with long-form business interviews can be heard Monday - Friday. You can subscribe on  PlayerFM, Podbean, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher or TuneIn Radio. And you can catch The Business News Hour Week in Review each Sunday Noon Central on News/Talk 1540 KXEL. The Business News Hour is a production of Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications. You can follow us on Twitter @IoB_NewsHour...and on Threads @Insight_On_Business.

Send us a textStephanie Niemiec was raised in Fairfield, NJ. Stephanie graduated from West Essex High School and earned her bachelor's degree in Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University and Thomas Edison State University. Her personal journey has been shaped by significant loss, having experienced the deaths of several close family members from a young age. These experiences have profoundly influenced her commitment to emergency medicine and her resilience in the face of trauma.Stephanie is a dedicated Mobile Intensive Care Unit (MICU) Paramedic and clinical educator with over 25 years of experience in prehospital medicine. She beganher career in 1996 as an EMT with Cedar Grove Ambulance & Rescue Squad and advanced her training at Union County College's paramedic program in 1999. By 2000, Her passion for teaching emerged in 2003 when she became a paramedic instructor at Union County College. She later advanced to Clinical Coordinator for Bergen Community College's Paramedic Science Program.Stephanie is the proud mother of a 20-year-old autistic daughter, a thriving college music major who aspires to play clarinet in a traveling orchestra and teach music to special needs students. Stephanie is also the former spouse of a police officer, with whom she maintains a strong friendship. She openly reflects on the challenges faced by families of public servants, emphasizing the need for greater professional and community support. She believes the lack of professional and religious support are the reasons that contributed to the destruction of their marriageStephanie's career has been marked by her ability to navigate the aftermath of tragedy, both personally and professionally. Since the age of 15, she has endured the loss of close relatives and, throughout her 25 years in the field, has responded to countless critical incidents-including deaths, shootings, stabbings, hangings, drownings, motor vehicle collisions, domestic violence, and child abuse. These experiences have reinforced her dedication to compassionate care and her commitment to preparing the next generation of paramedicsFind Stephanie NiemiecInstagram Facebook LinkedIn Find The Suffering PodcastThe Suffering Podcast InstagramKevin Donaldson InstagramTom Flynn InstagramApple PodcastSpotifyYouTubeThe Suffering Podcast FamilySherri AllsupKetaReviveSupport the showThe Suffering Podcast Instagram Kevin Donaldson Instagram TikTok YouTube

Join Round Guy Radio's exhilarating coverage of the baseball face-off between Central E-Hawks and Fairfield Twins in Fairfield, Iowa. This electrifying episode kicks off with Central E-Hawks taking an early lead, thanks to Bo Hendrick's stunning three-run homer in the first inning. The game is filled with tension and excitement as both teams battle fiercely. Listen in as Fairfield Twins strive to narrow the gap with their own impressive plays, including Luke Consul's valuable contributions and Ethan Bisgard's remarkable pitching. Hosted by Round Guy Radio and sponsored by local representatives and businesses, this episode promises all the thrills of live baseball action, complete with surprising twists and the charm of small-town sportsmanship.

Back To the GrindA 7-part series by Member389. Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Stories. "You're quiet."I smiled. "Sorry, just thinking." I'd gotten home a few days before and promptly went back to work. This was my first night off, and sitting across the table from Mom, I thought that it was time to tell her, but unsure about how to go about it."Your trip went well then." She asked, the questioning tone left hanging in the air between us."It went very well." I said and looked her in the eyes. She knew, like mothers do, that there was a lot more to the story. She sat there with an expression that said, "when you're ready, tell me what you need to get off your chest.""Dinner smells terrific." I said."Yea it does. Sorry it's going to be a bit late, I got it into the slow cooker later than I'd planned." She said, before getting up and setting the table.I'm not sure if it was the homely sounds of the kitchen but I relaxed. "Do you remember two years ago when I went down to see Davy about a job for the summer?""Yes, when he'd given it to that Dylan boy." She said, knowing that the story was about to unfold."Yea, the reason he gave it to Dylan was because I didn't make it there in time. I stopped down at Paula's and she asked me to make a delivery for her since I was going right near the place on my way to see Davy." I began. I let the story unfold, not going into the steamy details. After all it was my mother I was talking to, and she didn't need to hear about that, any more than I wanted to tell her. I told her about taking care of Summer for weeks. She mentioned that Paula told her about me taking her to the concert in the park. I said that I had, and a good many people had let her know that I had been on stage and played for some girl named Summer. I had totally forgotten about how public that was, and yet she never mentioned it to me even though she'd heard about it. Mothers can be the sneaky when they want to be."So you already knew?" I said surprised."Well not so much as you think, but when your son serenades a pretty girl at a crowded summer concert, people will ask you about it." She said with a smile. "I thought that you'd tell me when you were ready." She paused. "I knew something had happened though, and I didn't want to pry. You're an adult, and I respect the fact that you're not going to tell me everything that's going on in your life. Listen to me, that sounded like a huge guilt trip, it's not. I just want you to know that I respect your privacy. Paula tried to dig for dirt with me and I told her that you hadn't discussed your job with me."I told her about how abruptly Summer had left. The look on my face must have conveyed exactly how it felt. She walked over and rested a hand on my shoulder before running her hand down the back of my head and giving my neck a little squeeze. She knew somebody had broken my heart, now she knew who it was."So you went to see her?" She asked."It's nice there, kind of like west of here over towards the mountains. She lives in a decent sized city, like Augusta maybe. She's a nurse at the hospital there. She's got a terrific daughter named Emily." At that I spied mom's eyebrows lift a fraction."So how did the first meeting go?" You hadn't seen her in over a year, the way she left I can't imagine you'd heard from her before that.""It was nerve wracking." I said with a laugh. I told her about leaving the note and finally meeting again. I mentioned meeting Emily and how they asked me to stay with them. I watched for a look of shock or surprise and didn't see one cross mom's face. Her head just bobbed as she took it all in."So, when?" She asked, picking up the thread of a conversation we'd had weeks before.I just smiled. "First of the year. I'll be done with my one year duty here. I've already picked up the necessary forms to apply there. If I don't get in there, I'll look to nearby towns, or just go back to school and get a job doing something else. I'm going to get my EMT training one way or another." She smiled at that."I hope I get to meet her someday." There's the guilt trip I thought."Well, funny you should mention that, because I was thinking of the same thing." I replied, and let her know how I hoped we could make it happen. She was all smiles after that."Oh my God, to have been a fly on the wall during that conversation." Summer said. Her voice sounded so sweet. It made my heart beat faster just to hear it."I left out most of the lurid bits of the story. I didn't want her to keel over on me.""I'm sure any parts you left out, she figured out already. From the sounds of her, she doesn't seem like the type to fool easily." She replied."That she isn't. Luckily I was a good kid so I didn't have to bullshit my way through many situations."We talked about little things, Emily was doing a little better in school, but still wasn't pushing for the all A's that Summer was looking for. I said to give her time, the music is helping I was sure of it. Emily insisted on talking to me, I could hear her bouncing like a jumping bean in the background. She was all excited to tell me about how her music teacher thought it was terrific she was so interested in everything I was showing her and her friends and how she was going to be in a holiday concert at school. I brought up school, asking how she was doing. She let out a little sigh."One A, two B's and two C's" was her reply. "I just don't get algebra!" The other C was from a history class which had her bored to tears talking about 'boring dead people' as she put it.I made her a deal, no C's by the mid-term report card and I'd make it worth her while. It was after her mother chivied her off the phone and to bed that I brought up my idea. I was surprised that not only did she like the idea she was very excited.Thanksgiving day past with several calls on homes with scorched turkeys, and one unfortunate turkey frying experiment that cost a family their garage. Soon the snow was upon us. This early the snow usually didn't stick long, not this close to the ocean. It did make the driving difficult for the people who hadn't seen it in seven months. Luckily there were no major incidents. That is until I handed my notice into the chief.He was less than impressed, until I told him my plans. He said he'd push to get me EMT training the budgets would be out soon. I showed him a picture of Summer and Emily that I'd snapped with my phone. "Unless you can make that job happen where they are. It's not likely to change my mind." I said with a smile."Would she be willing to move here?"I laughed. "Not nearly as I'm ready to move there. Don't worry I'm a first year greenhorn, I can't be that tough to replace.""No but that means I have to find one willing to relocate here or scrounge up another, get him up to Fairfield, and wait months to put him to work." He shook his head, then asked to see the picture again. "I'll say this, she looks worthy of a guy like you. Don't screw it up.""I like to think that I'm worthy of a girl like her. Trust me, I'll do everything I can to not screw it up."Christmas eve came quietly, the crackle of a log in the wood stove, the soft hum of the refrigerator in the kitchen and in the living room me rustling and muttering while attempting to wrap a gift."Do you want a cookie?" Mom called out from the kitchen."Of course, but did you make enough for Santa?" I said chuckling."Don't you worry, I'm practicing for when the girls get here. What kind of grandma street cred would I have if I couldn't whip up cookies on the spur of the moment?"We had a quiet dinner earlier just the two of us. I started to doubt my gift choice and my mother put her hand on my arm. "Relax, she's going to love it, trust me.""I know, I'm just getting a little anxious." I said with a sigh. She chuckled at that."She'll be here day after tomorrow. Breathe."Mom was going to pick her up at the airport since I'd swapped shifts with Mike so I could have the later part of the week off. I'd be working Christmas day and the day after and have the next three days off, then two more days and I was done. I'd already started packing. Mom kept trying to give me furniture, which was nice but wasn't going to travel well since I didn't know where I'd be living just yet. I asked Summer if I could stay with her for a few days while I looked at apartments to which she quickly said yes. I felt a hand on my shoulder rubbing it firmly."Breathe." She said again."You're going to like her.""I already do, because I trust you. You've always been a good judge of character." We did justice to the cookies leaving a couple out with a small glass of milk, just in case.Work went by slowly, we had a huge dinner at the engine house. We did have one call of a chimney fire from some overzealous wrapping paper burning. The next day had me so jumpy Herb said I should drink decaf from now on. When I told him why his face broke into a huge grin."You finally tugged back, huh? Tell me you're going to bring her by so we can meet the woman you're dumping us for.""I might, just to show her why I'm leaving." I laughed ducking his backhanded slap. About mid-afternoon I got a text saying that they had landed and mom had found them. They should be in town in a little over an hour. I did an equipment check and spent some time polishing the chrome on #3 to keep myself occupied."Hey Pete!" I heard from over by the kitchen. I walked around the corner and Summer was standing there, her arm on Emily's shoulder. Allan, the lieutenant on duty laughed. "I haven't seen him smile like that since the time we ordered pizzas from next door and didn't make him cook." I walked up and Summer launched herself into my arms. Several kisses later I noticed we were getting a round of applause."You may need to hose them off, they do this all the time." Emily announced to everybody, to a hale of laughter. I gave Summer another kiss before releasing my grip and reaching out to Em."Come here smart ass and give me a hug." She gladly dove into my side and I kissed her on the forehead."What are you feeding her? I used to be able to kiss the top of her head.""Everything, I think she's having another growth spurt." Summer replied. I showed them around, introducing them to the guys on duty. Herb gave me a sly wink, I don't think he had any doubts now as to why I was leaving.Allan walked over to us. "Damn, I'm sorry you're not feeling well Pete. Hopefully you'll feel better by Thursday. Danny is coming into the cover the overnight." I looked at him oddly. "Get outta here you three." He smiled and thumped me on the back and walked off.I wasn't sure what happened, but I wasn't about to argue the point. We all piled into my truck and I drove back to the house. I felt Mom's hand in this when I saw a big spread being worked on for dinner. I knew I was right. I asked her if she needed any help."Maybe a little." She put her hand on Emily's shoulder. "Would you mind giving me a hand Emily?" Mom gave me a look and raised an eyebrow in dismissal."Don't work her too hard. We'll need some help to clean out under the tree later." I said chuckling.As soon as we made it through the doorway Summer turned me and fell into my arms. The kiss was sweet with an underlying urgency. Her body felt like a taught bowstring against me, the energy waiting to be unleashed.Em said a little louder than necessary. "If I know them, they're in there with their faces stuck together." Causing us both to laugh."I hope we have a lot of potatoes to peel. I'm really hungry." I called back. Summer pulled me down onto the couch and kissed me again."I have a special surprise for you." She said with a big grin."Not here, my mother is right in the kitchen!" I said laughing."Not that, maybe later if we can find a way to pull it off." She said as she gave the front of my pants a squeeze. "I've only had Bob to keep me company the last two months, and he's a lousy cuddler."My eyes went wide. "Who is Bob?" I asked.She snorted and leaned in to whisper in my ear. "Battery operated boyfriend." I busted out laughing."Is this the same Bob you traveled with a few years ago?" I asked softly, not wanting the conversation to raise questions.Summer rolled her eyes. "Maybe, maybe not? You left me in a bad way two weeks ago when you called. It's not nice to ply a girl with pretty words and promises and then leave her to take matters in her own hands." I remembered the call, and I wanted so badly to ravish her until we both passed out."Oh my God, look at you blush." She said with a smile. She leaned in and whispered in my ear. "Don't you worry, I'll get my due for that, and then some." She took my ear lobe in her mouth giving it a tug. Her hand slipped between my legs, she massaged the inside of my thigh and it was getting the reaction she expected."I'm going to run upstairs and change, I'll be right back." I said, trying to steady my breathing.She grinned even further with a glint in her eye. "Want to show me your room?"I chuckled at that. "Sure." I stood taking her hand and led her upstairs. I led her into the room where she peeked out the door behind us before closing it quietly and began unbuttoning my shirt for me. In a flash I was shirtless and she was kissing her way down as she pushed my t-shirt up and off."Are you nuts?" I chuckled."I can't leave you like this through dinner." She said stroking my hard cock through my pants. She stepped back sitting on the edge of the bed and pulled me towards her by the belt and undid it. She had my pants and boxers around my knees and began licking my cock. She looked up catching my eye as she began taking it into her mouth. It's a wonder my knees didn't buckle at the sensation. She took me slowly at first, but sensed my mounting frustration and sped up, bobbing swiftly drawing me out until I exploded down her throat.I gasped catching my breath. "You're a little bit evil, you know that?"She dabbed at the corner of her mouth with a tissue she grabbed from the box on the nightstand."I don't know about that. I think I'm more angelic, to relieve you from your suffering like that." She replied."I can't wait to return the favor.""Neither can I." She said smiling. "Is there a bathroom up here?" I told her it was the last door on the right. "Good, let me go freshen up and head downstairs before you come down."I came down the stairs and stopped at the sight before me. Summer sat at the end of the couch, with a mug in her hands, eyes wide as she watched Em. Colored lights twinkled making the scene magical. She had the most beatific expression as she watched Emily scouting the presents under the tree. Emily sounded amazed that she had so many. Mom had pulled out the stops when she discovered she finally had a girl to shop for. Summer's gaze lit on me and her smile got even bigger as she beckoned me over. Just as I sat down Mom called out for a hand and I hopped back up and grabbed the tray she'd put together."This one for Em, no rum in it." She pointed at one of the mugs of hot cider."Going to be that kind of night is it?" I chuckled."Hey, it's the holidays. Why not enjoy ourselves?" She followed me out with a huge platter of food and set it on the coffee table. We chatted while dinner cooked. Emily landed next to the platter and began nibbling away. I had a dread feeling that this meeting was going to be awkward for everybody involved. Trust Mom to treat Summer like a longtime girlfriend, not like someone she'd met a few hours before. Somehow discussion turned to what I was like when I was little and the embarrassing stories began. Before long the buzzer on the stove went off and we mobilized and soon we were sitting around the table, a feast laid out before us."I wondered where he got his culinary skills from, now I know. Everything was delicious.""Thank you. I assure you that I only showed him the basics, he's more creative than I've ever been in the kitchen."Em piped in describing our weekend of Italian food when I was at their house a few months earlier."Your lieutenant wasn't happy with me because of it either. I guess since you've been there they've eaten better than they had in years. Some of the guys said you were a better cook than their wives." Summer said laughing."It's probably for the best, Earl was getting a paunch on him." I replied. "I have a gift. What can I say?""You could say, don't move Mom, I'll take care of the dishes."Hearing my groan caused Emily to add, "You know the deal, the cook doesn't do the dishes, and you didn't cook.""I didn't cook, either I'll help you hon." Summer added as the laughter subsided. It wasn't long before we joined Mom and Emily in the living room again."I now have a promise that you're going to practice your music so you don't forget it." Mom said. "Emily is going to teach you to play guitar too, so I hear.""I hope so." I replied as we got comfortable on the couch. I looked up and Emily's face was full of pent up excitement. Summer stifled a yawn behind her hand. "Maybe we should wait, your mom seems pretty tired.""Mom, do you need some coffee?" She asked with a longing in her voice. We all laughed as her mother declined."Pete, get in there and play Santa for us." Mom said as she prodded me with a toe.It was surprising how little time it took to tear through the loot. Emily dancing around a pile hugging her new game. She pouted slightly because her mother said she'd lose it if her grades didn't stay up. I agreed, and reminded her we had a deal. We did our best to neaten up and make a pathway. Mom said she was going to go to bed and made her way upstairs. We had Emily's bed made up in Mom's office on a borrowed folding bed. Summer allowed her to take the game with her so she could try it out. A quiet settled over the house as we tucked in for the night.Summer emerged from Emily's makeshift bedroom. I had cleared the coffee table off and set the last gift in the middle of the table. A small velvet box with a little red bow on it. She stopped half way across the room, her eyes wide as she looked at the box then over at me. I knelt on one knee in front of the wood stove a stick in hand poking up the coals. She looked at me kneeling then at the box again. I was unsure of what was going on in her mind, but a wash of expressions made their way across her face in a fleeting moment. She finally broke eye contact with me and retrieved a similar box from her purse setting it next to the one that was on the coffee table. She sat on the couch and patted the spot next to her. My heart pounding because of the look she gave me. I was both worried and hopeful.She inhaled quickly as if to begin a speech. "Pete, remember when you came out to see me?""Just open it first. Please." I interrupted her. She looked up sharply at me. "Please?" I said with a grin. She gave me a curious look and reached for the box like it might go off like a bomb if she moved to quickly. She lifted the lid gently and looked for a moment at the silver pendant. A grin crept across her face as she let out the breath she'd been holding."It's beautiful!" She said turning to me and giving me a kiss."It's one of a kind. The woman that made it said she wouldn't make another for at least three months. It was our deal after she saw the design I'd made for it." The pendant was a large silver heart with a smaller heart inside, and another smaller heart inside of that one. Along the edge where the three hearts joined, small stones were set. I chose our three birthstones and they worked well together in pale blue, clear and pink.I chuckled after a few more kisses. "I know what you were thinking. I was thinking the same thing myself. I spent weeks looking at rings." I said softly. "Then about a month ago, I don't know what reminded me of it, but I remembered how proud you sounded when you told me that you were back on your feet, and you were doing well. I didn't want to feel like I was trying to tie you down again, and become the old ball and chain."She drew a breath to say something and I turned looking deep into her eyes and saw the answer to the question I hadn't asked."I want you to want it as much as I do. When I ask, you'll know it's coming." I said as I took her face in my hands and kissed her deeply. I pulled back to see her eyes welling up."How is it that you understand me so well?" Her voice barely above a whisper."I listen to what you say, and to what you don't say." I smiled at her and the first tear broke free and rolled down her face. I brushed them away with my thumbs and before I knew it she was straddling me and our lips crashed together. The frustration of the past two months apart trickled away gently. It took a loud pop from the wood stove to rouse us. Summer jumped, startled by the sound, then realizing what it was began to chuckle. She sat up slightly, still straddling my lap and whipped her hair to one side, with a deft motion she undid the necklace she was wearing and set it on the table. She reached into the box and lifted out the pendant and handed it to me. She turned and sat on my lap and lifted her hair. I clasped the necklace and leaned in kissing her softly on the neck, causing her to let out a sigh and tilted her head inviting me to have my fill."You're distracting me." She mumbled."Really?" I said. "From what?" She shivered in my arms as I continued my gentle assault on her neck."We need to talk."I felt an icy bolt run down my spine. Those are words I never wanted to hear. She noticed I'd stopped nibbling her neck and patted the hand I had wrapped around her waist. She leaned forward and then slid off my lap and sat next to me. The other little box in hand. She was still smiling but looked at me with concern."Are you okay?""Yea," I said, "what do you mean we need to talk?"She laughed gently. "Relax. It's just that this needs a little explanation." She handed me the box and tucked her leg under her. She nodded at the box, urging me to open it. I looked up at her for a moment, her eyebrows went up as she urged me to open it with an impish grin. "Well go on." I pulled the ribbon off and tore the paper sliding out what looked like a jewelry box. I opened up to find a pewter key chain with my initials on it. I breathed a little better."Emily and I decided we don't want you to come stay with us for a few weeks while you look for a new place."I looked up sharply at that. She had a devious smile on her lips. She motioned towards the box again. I picked up the heavy oval and keys dangled out from underneath it."We decided we don't want you to look for a new home. You already have one if you want it."I turned it over, the inscription on the other side said, "Always Remember To Come Home.""That was Emily's idea. She knows being a firefighter isn't exactly the safest profession. She's close to Uncle Dale. So much so that sometimes I wonder which one is the kid." I turned and kissed her, smothering her next words. She pulled back gasping for breath. "Is that a yes?"I just nodded, too choked up to reply.EpilogueI sat on an old stump, steam rising off my coffee in the cool morning air. The clouds were heavy, a faint glimmer of the sun trying to break through near the horizon. The breeze kicked up, dried leaves skittered across the brown grass at my feet. I looked up, in the distance there was a V of southbound geese. I lowered my eyes and took in the little house with a grin and shook my head. So many things had happened in just a few short years. A blue jay called out just as the door opened and Emily barreled out headed for the school bus. She didn't even look up as she darted around the house to stand with the her friends down a few houses. She'd grown and was looking more like the beautiful woman she would soon become. I looked over at the kitchen window and saw a shadow move. A few minutes later the door opened again, Summer stood on the step scanning the yard, for me I assumed."Pete?" She hollered."I'm over here." I said, getting her attention. She walked over and stopped in front of me, her hair blew in front of her face, her arms crossed tight against the chill."Are you okay?""I'm fine.""What are you doing out here in the cold?" She said bumping my foot aside slightly so she could perch on my knee, her arm wrapped around my back as she nestled in to find some warmth."Counting my blessings. The second one just dashed up the road to catch the bus, the first one is right here." I said running my hand up her back. "After that I lost count.""Today?" I asked. We'd gotten into a little routine over the past year, where I had asked her to marry me, and she said she'd tell me when she was ready. It had been over a year, nearly two, since I'd moved here, and the life agreed with me somehow. The area was rough, but the people strong and supportive. There were whisperings about us, but they all disappeared when people realized just how in love we were... we are. Our game was to the point where I wouldn't have to say anything more, and she knew what I wanted. I asked daily."Happy birthday." She said, then leaned down and kissed me. The blue jay taking offense to our conversation decided to voice his opinion again. I raised my eyebrows at her. I never let her get away without answering me. She looked up over my head, her eyes scanning the yard, she looked up at the sky and slowly began nodding. She looked down at me with a smile. "Today."By Member389 for Literotica

Night Listeners -Tonight we have Diana Weishaar of Contakta, The Host Country, The L.I.F.E. Project and host of the In The Round podcast. We talk about growing up in Fairfield, going on tour with Breaking Benjamin and Bush and we dig into her Iowa playlist.Contakta - "Confession" / Bodyheat EP (Des Moines)Joel Sires - "This House" (Cedar Falls)Finally Some Action - "Sensor Recall" / Circuits of Time EP (Keokuk)Abbie Sawyer - "Raise My Wonder" (Des Moines)Salt Fox - "Oak Tree" (Cedar Falls)Crystal City - "Three-Dimensionality" / Three-Dimensionality (Iowa City) Follow me on: Instagram | Twitter (not doing much with it currently)Iowa Basement Tapes has its own archive of Iowa music. Be sure to check out iowabasementtapes.bandcamp.com and download any of the releases for free. If you would like to contribute any music please send an email to kristianday@gmail.com. BROADCAST SCHEDULEThursdays at 9PM on 98.9FM KFMG - Des MoinesSaturdays at 8PM on 1240AM KWIC - DecorahWednesdays at 11PM on 90.3FM KWIT - Sioux CityWednesdays at 11PM on 90.7FM KOJI - OkobojiIf you miss the show please subscribe to the broadcast archives: https://apple.co/2MzdH5e

Every Friday in The Feed Megan Schinella comes on the air to talk about all the fun things happening in and around Connecticut this weekend that you can do with the kids and family.  KEVIN'S PICKS: Saturday 6/7 2pm-4pm: Anna at the Grand Opening of Boot Barn in Milford Sunday 6/8 7:30pm: Wallows at Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater in Bridgeport  MEGAN'S PICKS: 1. Strawberry Festival in Southport Saturday & Sunday | 11am–5pm | Admission: FREE Held at the beautiful Greenfield Hill Congregational Church in Fairfield. Expect strawberry shortcake, live music, kids' games, bounce houses, and artisan vendors. A delicious tradition!             2. Greenwich Polo Opening Day Sunday | Gates open at 1pm, Match begins at 3pm Bring a picnic or reserve a tailgate spot! Family-friendly vibes with food trucks, music, and a chance to wear those summer whites.             3. Wilton Library Summer Reading Kickoff Saturday | 11am–1pm | FREE Enjoy crafts, treats, a juggler, and early sign-up for the summer reading program. Great way to get kids excited about books.             4. Dreamscape by New England Academy of Dance in New Canaan  |  performances Saturday 5:30pm and Sunday 4:30pm at New Canaan High School.              5. Alice: The Trail to Wonderland @ Lachat Town Farm, Weston Saturday and Sunday | 6:30pm–8pm | $35 An immersive outdoor experience through a strange and magical world. Great for older kids or a unique parent-child evening adventure. Megan's Mom Quote of the Week: "Some days I amaze myself. Other days, I look for my phone while I'm holding it and yell at the kids for hiding it."

Join us for an exciting episode of This Week in High School Baseball as we welcome Andy Krutsinger from the Southeast Iowa Union. In this episode, Andy shares insights into the lively broadcasts of Washington Demons baseball games, highlighting the experience he and his team bring to capturing the action on the field. Andy elaborates on the various high school baseball teams he covers, touching on the challenges and triumphs of broadcasting live sports and the upcoming plans for future coverage. He talks about standout teams like Fairfield, Mid-Prairie, and Van Buren County, discussing their performances and potential in a competitive season. Discover the unique experiences these teams have, such as playing at famous fields like the Field of Dreams, and the dedication it takes to cover the dynamic world of high school sports. Don't miss this insider look at Southeast Iowa's baseball scene, and get ready for an engaging discussion filled with passion for baseball!

Leave them wanting moreA 7-part series by Member389. Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Stories. We made our way to the Jeep and I put our stuff in the back and walked around to give her a hand into her seat. The look in her eyes was dreamy as I closed her door and walked around to the driver's side. We drove back in silence, her hand on my thigh giving it an occasional squeeze. When I pulled into the driveway she looked over at me, the expression in her eyes was full of longing. I got out and walked around the Jeep and grabbed the cooler from the back and walked around and opened her door."Do you need a hand?" I asked softly. She just nodded looking into my eyes. She slid off the seat landing on her good foot and wrapped her arm around me."Hang on." I said softly. I opened the door up, turned on the light and set down the cooler. I went back out and picked her up in my arms and brought her inside. I carried her into the living room and went to set her on the couch and she tightened her arms around my neck and shook her head gently. She lifted her chin towards the bedroom.I looked into her eyes and saw her expression, it looked like a mix need and desire. I carefully passed through the bedroom door and stood beside the bed. I had a split second notion to dump her on the bed laughing, but the look on her face told me that tenderness was needed. I set her down on her feet instead looking into her eyes. That look wrenched my heart, it said to me, "love me." I placed my hands on her hips and drew us slowly together and I leaned forward, her hands came up and lay on my chest, grasping lightly at the fabric of my shirt as she leaned into our kiss."Go turn off the lights." She whispered to me. I looked into her eyes for a moment longer and noticed the corner of her mouth rise slightly as she gave me the slightest push. I nearly ran out to the kitchen, made sure the door was closed and smacked the light switch. I turned the corner from the kitchen into the living room and saw her turning to stand right where she was when I'd left the room.A small lamp with a dim bulb cast a golden glow over the room. She looked up at me standing in the doorway and the corner of her mouth twitched and she bit her lower lip and looked away. I walked back into the room and saw that she'd kicked off her shoes but nothing else had changed. I followed suit and kicked mine off as I approached her. She looked up from under a fall of hair at me still biting her lip. I reached up taking her gently by the chin and releasing the lower lip from her bite, only to capture it with mine. Her arms came up around my neck as I encircled her waist with mine as our mouths explored. Her tongue danced like a flame in a fire, scalding hot one moment and gone another. My hands slid up her waist bringing the shirt with them and I ran my hand around behind her, running my fingers gently up her spine, her skin was so soft and warm. I felt the tremor as she shivered at my touch and it brought a small smile to my lips. She kissed me deeply, our tongues twirling like skilled dancers, before she leaned back slightly raising her arms in surrender.The fabric slid up her curves giving up every beautiful inch grudgingly. The shirt was laid aside as I drank in her beauty. My fingers traced down the smooth curve of her waist, then back up her soft flat stomach with its little silver and pink heart bangle. The thin lace did nothing to hide her excitement, her nipples pressed easily through the flimsy fabric, the small pink areola swelled slightly. The invitation was conveyed, yet I decided to wait on responding. I looked up into her eyes, her expression, soft but willing me onward, yet not giving direction. I was on a voyage of discovery, and Summer was letting me find my own way.I took her in my arms and kissed her again willing myself to go slowly. I broke from her lips, trailing kisses up her jaw as she tilted her head back giving complete freedom for my lips to roam. I made it to her ear, teasing the lobe with the tip of my tongue. Summer inhaled sharply as traced down her neck with the tip of my tongue. She reached up under my shirt running her hands over my back, pulling us together, rubbing her chest to mine. The scent of her perfume urged me on, and I surrendered greedily kissing my way down her chest. I followed the top of her bra with the tip of my tongue before sliding across the fabric and taking the nipple fully into my mouth and sucking it greedily as my hand massaged its twin. I made my way across to the other, offering the same attention to the right. Summer's breathing was ragged, her head tilted slightly back offering herself to me."Take it off." Came the urgent whisper. I pulled her towards me making my way up the other side of her neck while liberating her from the confines of lace. I pulled the fabric slowly down, dragging the lace across her hard nipples, with a whimper she bit her lower lip. Her hands slid up my back, taking my shirt with them as she lifted it over my head and threw it aside. Our skin touched, her nipples poking my chest, it felt like the heat between us was enough to start a fire.She leaned forward taking the upper hand, and in no uncertain terms let me know that it was her turn as she kissed her way from my mouth down my jaw , her hands drawing down my chest as her mouth blazed a trail to my nipple. She toyed with it, flicking it with her tongue before taking it into her mouth, causing me to gasp from the heat that enveloped me. She worked her way from one nipple to the other achingly slow.I reached between us and grasped the front of her jeans fumbling to get them unbuttoned and the zipper pulled. She took my forearms in her hands willing me to slow down."Easy, there's no hurry." She whispered. I calmed myself with a deep breath and unbuttoned her jeans sliding the zipper down. I parted the waist, just as she leaned down pulling them from my grasp. She trailed kisses down my chest as she began shedding my own jeans. She didn't appear to be moving quickly but had mine pushed down to my thighs quicker than I realized. My cock was as hard as old hickory, and it raised a tent in my boxers. She ran her hands down my stomach, and placed them on my hips as she knelt in front of me looking up into my eyes. I know my eyes begged urgently for satisfaction but Summer wouldn't have it. She saw my hands flexing as if looking to grab hold of something and took them in her hands pinning them to my hips before she leaned forward and began nuzzling my hard cock through the fabric of my boxers. She nibbled her way up the underside of my cock, her tongue occasionally lashing out for a lick. She looked up at me smiling as she pushed my hands away and began peeling my boxers down freeing me from the confines. She ran her cheek down my length, she kissed the base as she reached up beneath and took my balls in her hand massaging them as she began kissing her way up the shaft, her tongue leaving a wet trail.She stopped at the tip and cleaned up the moisture that had already begun leaking. I willed her to take me in her mouth, grab me with her hand, but she didn't, she just slowly lapped at the tip and stroked my balls. She was building me up to go off like a cannon and she knew it. Finally she relented and took the tip in her mouth, slowly swirling her tongue around me. I pushed forward hoping she would take more of me and she backed away in equal measure. She looked up at me with a raised eyebrow as if to say, "Did you really think that would work?" She took her time making sure she never missed a spot with her tongue and lips, but never drawing me out. She just kissed and caressed her way down my length. I didn't think I could take much more when she stopped and looked up at me, her eyes smoldering in the dim light. Without a word she tilted her head slightly and bent forward taking one my balls into her mouth and began stroking it with her tongue, rolling it around her mouth. I gasped at the sensation, and I thought I would lose it right then as she let it drop from her lips.It was only then that I realized that I was shaking in anticipation. Summer stood slowly looking into my eyes, her lips parted slightly and I instinctively leaned into her kiss. Her arms came up around my neck and my hands went to the waist of her jeans, two could play this game. I pushed them down to her hips, breaking our kiss with a smile. I pushed my jeans all the way off before kneeling before her and sliding her jeans down to her knees. I smiled a little wider at the pink panties with the tiger stripes and noted a large damp spot, I pushed the jeans down and she stepped out of them, they landed next to mine when I tossed them aside. She stood still, her hands at her sides as I drank in the sight of her long sun kissed legs. I ran my hands up her thighs, she was trembling under my hands. I leaned forward, placing a soft kiss on the damp spot, a soft sigh escaped her lips, as I kissed downward pushing my tongue against her through the fabric. I traced my tongue back up, she grasped my wrists urging me to pull the flimsy fabric down her hips and be done with it. I had sufficiently quelled my desire to throw her down on the bed and take her fast and hard. I was learning to enjoy taking my time.I nuzzled her tugging the panties up pulling them tighter into her crease, pressing my tongue into her through the fabric, soft moans escaped from deep in her chest. Her grip on my wrists tightened urging me to take them off, but I held fast teasing her through the fabric until she let out a pleading moan. I loosened my hold and let her hands push mine down, her panties sliding down with them. The scent of her arousal caused a wave of urgency to hit me, and I inhaled deeply reigning it in. I turned her slightly setting her on the edge of the bed. I slipped between her spread legs and began teasing her kissing my way down and stopping, working my way down the other side of her. It wasn't long that I felt her leg wrap around my head, and her fist grab my hair that she'd had enough teasing and she needed release.She laid back pulling me down into her, as soon as I dipped my tongue to her molten center her back arched and she let out a feral growl. Her hips lifted grinding herself into my probing mouth, and I did my best to stoke the fire, tongue dancing over slippery flesh, relishing every moment of pleasure I could give her. Her hips began to buck as I locked my lips around her clit attacking it with my tongue and she began to cry out as her back arched. I did my best to keep her at that edge and let the pleasure wash over her. She slowly settled back down her body relaxed while she gasped for air.She took my head in her hands and drew me up over her languid body. I took the time to kiss my way up as she drew my face to hers. Her eyes were still closed but her lips didn't miss their mark as kissed my forehead first and worked her way down my face, our tongues wrestling like lovers."Well you've certainly become skilled at that." She sighed."To become truly skilled at anything, you must love what you're doing." I replied softly, conveying an adage one of my old teachers used often."Do you love what you're doing?" She asked between kisses.I smiled and let out a low chuckle. Our bodies melted together, her legs parted and wrapped around my hips, and I entered her slippery warmth. Neither of us were in a hurry as we sampled each other's body. The heat kept building like a fanned fire and I began stroking longer, and pushing deeper, her legs urging me on, her tongue tracing down my ear as she whispered encouragement. I kissed and nibbled down her neck, as I reached beneath her, taking her shoulders in my hands I held her in place as the pace of my strokes became more insistent. She started to whimper, her lips parting and she began moaning, spurring me on. She gasped, and cried out arching her back offering herself even wider to me and began shaking. The end was near for me as I too groaned and drove forward, pulling on her shoulders, pressing into her as hard as I could. I erupted deep inside her, arching my back as we both gasped for breath.I slid off lying beside her still gulping air. Summer rolled up onto her elbow and laced her leg between mine, rubbing her knee against my thigh as she leaned down and kissed me. Her hand ran up and down my sweat slicked chest as she stole every gasp for air I made."I'm not sure if I'm an excellent teacher or you're an excellent student, but wow!" She said. She rolled off the side of the bed saying she'd be right back. A cool breeze blew and I felt myself shiver."Oh shit!" I whispered looking down and my spent cock laying on my stomach drying. So many things started racing through my mind.Summer padded back into the bedroom, a towel in her hand. She crawled up onto the bed smiling at me, and leaned down for a kiss."I'm so sorry." I nearly cried. She just looked at me, one eyebrow raised."See how easy it is to forget?" She replied softly, knowing instinctively what I meant. "Why do you think I just went and washed up. I didn't want to be sleeping on the wet spot." She grinned."What if..." I started and she leaned down covering my mouth with hers."Don't worry," she whispered, "the lesson I wanted you to take away from that first day was that it's your responsibility to remember to cover your member." She giggled.She let out a deep sigh. "I don't exactly go around jumping into bed with just anybody, despite what you may think of me." Her expression turned serious. "I'm disease free, I got checked out a few months ago, and don't worry, I can't get pregnant." There seemed to be something left unsaid, she just sighed again.She proceeded to use the towel to clean me up, without saying anything more. I reached up and gently lifted the hair away from her face, but she didn't look up from what she was doing. She was looking at what she was doing, but she was a million miles away. I slowly slipped the towel from her hand and pulled her down to me wrapping my arms around her. She nestled herself against me hugging me tightly as I turned off the lamp. I ignored the wet feeling on my chest."Are you awake?" She whispered. I had been in one my half-awake moments when she asked. I opened my eyes, and noticed it was still dark outside."Yea." I replied softly as I kissed her shoulder. I realized I was spooning her and tightened my hold just a bit."I'm sorry about earlier, how I reacted." She sighed deeply."You've got nothing to be sorry for." I whispered softly in her ear before giving it a nibble.She started playing with my hand, tracing the fingers with hers, slipping hers beneath mine and I closed my hand around hers gently."If you don't want to talk about it..." I started."No. I don't mind." She replied twisting her head speaking over her shoulder. I ran my fingers down the length of hers resting where the ring would be, and rubbed slow circles. I felt her little smile and quick gust of breath rather than saw it. "Right to the point. Ten years, damn that sounds like a long time. I just realized you probably don't have any idea how old I am, do you?""Doesn't matter." I said kissing her shoulder and up the side of her neck."Last summer I came home from my shift at the hospital early, nearly caught him in the act with a friend of mine. It was pretty obvious what was going on. I found out it had been going on for a while by then.""What a dirt bag." I said, my grip upon her tightened a little in response. "A guy like that doesn't deserve someone like you. Did you leave him that day?""Leave him? I threw him out, both of them actually." She said. A few moments went by before she started again softly. "One woman wasn't enough for him, or maybe I wasn't enough for him.""Hey now. Don't start talking like that. Where one man sees a rock, another sees a diamond."Summer busted out laughing. "Where in the hell did you hear that?"I started laughing along with her. "Probably on TV or in a magazine." I took her hand in mine and ran it down her stomach and began circling slowly with our fingers entwined.She took a deep breath. "You're a subtle one, you are. She's ten, her name is Emily, and she's the most wonderful little girl in the world.""Where is she now?" I asked, scared to hear bad news."Summer camp in western Pennsylvania. My folks are picking her up when the session ends."I kept rubbing slow circles, and flicked her little silver heart belly button ring gently. "No more?""No." She said softly. "After Emmy something went wrong with the plumbing, I had to have surgery.""It sounds like it's time to move on, start over.""Yea, it's taken a year and a lot of prodding from family and friends, but I think it's time. This trip was going to be a little solo adventure. My total lack of grace and dexterity landed me on my ass for two weeks." She chuckled."Well it looks like you're doing well. You've had a passionate love affair with a hot, young stud. What else is there?"She giggled. "I'm not sure I'm done with that part yet." She ran her hand down behind her finding my hardness in the dark gently rubbing it."Yay for me." I whispered. She wiggled away from me and rolled over to face me, our lips met in a deep kiss."Me too." She said between kisses.She pushed my shoulder back laying me flat on the rumpled sheets, she climbed on me straddling my hips as we made out like teenagers. I must have nudged her just right a few times."Somebody is looking for a little more action." She grinned as she reached down between us lining me up and slipping down slowly. A soft hum of approval vibrated from her throat, or was that me? I couldn't tell. Our bodies rocked slowly like a boat on a gentle swell. Our pace built slowly, savoring the feeling of just being together. She sat up and began pushing herself down harder on me as I raised my hips to meet each with a firm thrust. We were in no hurry, but passion quickly set the pace and we were both moaning loudly, her body began to shake in my hands. I knew I wouldn't last much longer, and was thankful as she leaned forward and tightened her grip on me. She threw her head back and moaned deeply as she ground herself on my cock. Her whole body shook as the wave of her orgasm crashed over her, I couldn't hold out any longer and lifted my hips and erupted in her again.She laid down on my chest panting."I love you." I whispered softly, kissing the top of her head.I woke to an obnoxiously loud seagull squawking outside. I took a deep breath and stretched and felt rumpled sheets next to me. I blinked away the fog from my eyes and noticed I was alone. I tugged my jeans on and walked out to the kitchen. I felt right away that something was wrong. I jogged out the kitchen, the screen door banged against the porch rail. The Jeep was gone. I ran back inside to the bedroom, her clothes were gone, in the bath her toiletries were gone. The coffee table in the living room had a magazine or two on it. I looked in the kitchen and nothing was different except for the note on the counter.Dear Pete,I feel like a complete and total asshole right now, because I know when you read this you'll be pretty upset. When I woke up I checked my messages and my Mom had called yesterday. Emmy was in an accident at camp and broke her arm. She's okay, but I didn't feel right staying with you while my folks took care of her.I heard what you said last night and it scared me. I wanted so badly to say I love you too. I'm just not sure if it's real or not. We come from different worlds, we're at different places in our lives, it would be impossible for us both. You should move on, and remember everything I taught you. I have no doubt you're going to make some girl very happy. You did this one.Love,SummerHugs & kissesSummer hated herself for the lie about Emmy breaking her arm, but she'd hope it would ease the sting of her running off. She was sure there was no other way to end it. The tear was drying leaving a cool streak down her face.The traffic was getting heavier as she neared Portland, so she decided to get off the highway and start west along back roads. She still had a couple weeks of her vacation, so she wasn't worried about getting home right away.Road TripIt had been over a year now.I was working support in Warren down along the Camden road. There was a large blueberry farm there that was burning their fields. It's common practice to keep the other plants from taking over, blueberries grew like weeds out here, the fall burning helped increase the crop, and here in down east Maine blueberries are big business.I sat on the back of Fire Engine number 3, looking out over the fields, we were just here to make sure that the fires didn't get away from the farmers. Dark smoke rolled along on the breeze as the low flames crept eastward. These were the worst times. Normally I was too busy to think about it, too busy to dredge up the past and go over it like a raccoon pawing through a trash bin. Unfortunately, I tended to hold on to things like that. I could see Summer in my mind as if I'd seen her yesterday. The blue eyes, and that crooked little smile, her straw colored hair blowing in the breezes off the water. She hadn't tanned so much as she just glowed, as if reflecting the sun's color and warmth on to you.Fifteen months. That's how long it had been since she left. I still had the note carefully folded in my wallet. A few times frustration nearly got the better of me and I almost threw it away, but sentiment always seemed to win out.After she left I stewed for weeks, mom and friends kept trying to shake me out of my funk and none of them succeeded. I talked to Davy about a job but he'd already given my spot to someone else since I hadn't gone down to see him early enough. He told me that the city was looking for recruits for the fire department, and after my level headed rescue of a boater last year I should apply for it. The boater in question thought it was a smart idea to smoke his cigar while refueling, and the fumes caught. I got to him with a fire extinguisher before the place went up. He got burned up his arm and some around his neck but he survived. I didn't have any other prospects and it seemed like a good idea.The chief remembered the story about my fast thinking the summer before and looked over my paperwork. Before I knew it I was getting a ride up to Fairfield to the fire training academy. After six months I'd gotten my certification in firefighting and my first aid training. I requested further EMT training but the chief said it would have to wait until the new budget year before he could send me back.The summer had been busy with the tourists, the occasional fire, plenty of rescues, but now that the season was over it had quieted down. It was the quiet times, like now, that I'd fall into this pensive mood. Some of the older guys would try to rouse me, ruffling my hair to snap me out of it. I remembered Herb, the engineer for #3, sat next to me beside the fire house a few days ago. He didn't say anything for a few minutes."She must have been something."I just nodded. "She was everything."He nodded. "You know, when the smokes thick, sometimes you have to check the line between you and your partner. Make sure he's still there. If he pulls, and you don't tug back he doesn't know if he's snagged, or lost you."I smirked. "Yeah."He stood up and wandered back into the station. He was right, she tugged, but I didn't tug back. I let her leave. I won't lie and say I didn't cry out her name while I kicked the gravel in the driveway. I couldn't understand how she could leave like that without even a goodbye.Herb was right, and it's time to respond to the tug. We finished out the day walking the line to make sure there weren't any hot spots that would flare up before heading back to the station. Tonight was the end of my shift, I'd be headed home when we got back to the station, and I was off for the next couple days. I told the guys I'd see them on Friday and grabbed my duffel and headed to my truck.I walked into the house and it smelled wonderful. Mom said hi to me and told me dinner would be ready in a little bit. I went to my room and unpacked my bag. I remember when I told her that I was joining the fire department, she was torn between being happy that I'd found a direction after school, and sad that I'd be getting into a dangerous line of work. When I mentioned moving out and finding my own place she had convinced me to stay, and to put my money away. The house was plenty big, and she didn't like the idea of living alone, even though half the week I spent at work.I went into the kitchen and after a little silence she asked me what was wrong. I just raised my eyebrows at her."What makes you think something is wrong?""First of all, that response, second, you're not usually so quiet around dinner time." She chuckled. I didn't reply at first."What if I told you that I was thinking about moving? I don't mean getting my own place, like to another state?"She stopped what she was doing and looked at me for a moment. "Chasing your dream girl?" She asked. She had correctly deduced that last year's crashing depression was brought about by a girl, but I never told her who it was. She figured it was some girl I'd known in school that left for college."How will I ever know she's only a dream if I don't try to catch her?"She didn't say anything for a minute and went back to setting the table."I just don't want to see you get hurt. I mean, what if she's got a boyfriend or she didn't see things the way you did. It's not as if you were dating her long, I never even got to meet her."That idea shot through my mind, my mother meeting Summer sent a chill up my spine. I nearly forgot that mom thought this was some high school girlfriend. Then her statement rang a bell as if my head were in it. What if Summer had moved on, and was seeing someone or worse, remarried. My heart leapt into my throat and I swallowed."If that's the case then I may be back sooner than later.""Don't you get vacation time from work now that you've been there a year?"I nodded."Then why not take it and find out. Don't burn your bridges Smokey."She had a point. If I quit and headed into the wild unknown I'd be risking a decent future. I chuckled."Thanks." I replied with a little more sarcasm than necessary to get my point across."What?""I actually expected you to tell me to not go chasing dreams. It never works out like you hope it will, blah, blah, blah.""Is that what you want to hear?" She asked. "Best thing you did was joining the fire department. If nothing else, it's a job you can get pretty much anywhere you go. I'm not going to try and scare you out of living your life. You're smart, you'll always land on your feet, I've never really worried about you like that.""I think I'll talk to the chief about taking a vacation." I said smiling.When I got back to the station on Friday I went to the office and put in my request, I decided to take the week of my birthday off. I got the okay the next day. I spent the next couple weeks making calls and doing a little detective work. I found the rental agent in town that handled the house rental and inquired about Summer's address. It took a little finagling to get the woman to give me an address, but I got it.The next couple of weeks went by slowly, thankfully nothing major happened, and my vacation began. I'd packed up my duffel and headed south then west. I burned up the highway arriving at the state line in only a couple hours. I crossed New England by mid-afternoon, and drove on into New York state, making it to the Pennsylvania state line just after dinner time. I was beat, so I found a motel and ordered some take out.I dreamt of her. The last night we spent together, she opened up, telling me so many things. She had cried, I remembered. There was pain there that was barely hidden.The next morning I checked out and found the little diner on the edge of town recommended by the clerk. I had breakfast and pored over a map to plan the rest of my trip. Having pushed myself yesterday I'd made it more than half way to my destination, at this rate I'd be there by dinner time. After breakfast I hit the road again, skirting the cities and burning up the miles I found myself looking up at a sign, 'Welcome to West Virginia; Wild and Wonderful'. That caused a chuckle as I thought about Summer. It was a good description of the natives if she was any indication.I skirted the edge of town and found myself a motel room. I laid back on the bed and I wondered what I was doing. I came all this way to see her, and I hadn't spent a single moments thought on how I was going to go about it. Show up at her home and say, 'Hey, how's it going? Remember me?'I decided the best way was to let her know I was here and to let her come to me if she wanted to see me. It sounded conceited at first, but it also felt right. If she didn't want to see me, she'd only have to call me and say so, and I'd go home. That thought sent a cold chill through me, and I did my best to brush it away. I rummaged through the little desk and found some stationery and wrote her a note.Dear Summer,I thought it best to let you know I had come here to see you, and let you decide if you wanted to see me, rather than showing up at your door unannounced. Please, give me a call and let me know if I should stay or go.PeteI put my number on the bottom of the note, and decided the best time to drop it off would be in the morning. Emmy would likely be in school and Summer would probably be at work. I put the note into an envelope and sealed it and wrote Summer's name on the front.The next morning I decided I'd grab some breakfast in the coffee shop of the motel, before I made the trip across town. Where she lived seemed to be on the outskirts of the city on the other side of the river. I took my time making my way carefully through commuter traffic. Then across the river and up into the hills. I found the house and pulled up in front, a small stone retaining wall held back the front lawn from the road, and a mailbox stood sentinel at the head of the driveway. There were no cars in it, and I looked at the little house with its small windows and front porch. A few last die hard flowers held out against the October cold. I smiled, as I imagined her sunbathing naked on the front lawn, causing accident after accident on what seemed to be a busy road. I pulled up and left the note in the mailbox, and hoped that if there were someone else, that it was vague enough not to cause trouble.As I drove away the anxiety began. I had no idea the kind of reception I'd get. I drove around the outskirts of town killing time. The area reminded me of home, more up towards the mountains not along the coast. I roamed down tree lined roads passed a few farms, cows and horses sunning themselves in fields. I turned back towards the city after noon and made my way back to my motel. I figure if I'm lucky enough for her to want to see me, I should at least be presentable.After my shower I stood in front of the sink looking into the mirror and noted that I'd firmed up since becoming a firefighter. My face looked a little more angular, my shoulders and arms were a lot stronger. I didn't look like a skinny kid any more.I got dressed and laid back on the bed, channel surfing for anything to watch while I waited for the phone to ring. Time passed slowly, the tedium of lousy TV shows wasn't helping. It was after 4, and I was getting anxious. I grabbed my phone and took a walk around the outside of the motel so I wouldn't go stir crazy.I was on my second lap, thinking about how this trip was a big mistake when my phone rang, jolting me out of my reverie. I yanked my phone out of my pocket and noted it was a local number calling."Hello?"Silence."Summer?""You're really here?" She asked softly."I am here. I'd really like to see you." I stopped knowing that if I said any more I'd probably break down. She didn't respond at first. "I'll understand if you don't want to. I'll just go home if you say no.""No, I mean yes! I mean don't go, I want to see you. Meet me at RJ's, it's a little bar not far from you. I'll see you in an hour." She gave me directions from the motel, and told me that she called from her cell to just call her if I got lost.To be continued in part 4, by Member389 for Literotica

Today's guest is Katherine Lawrence, Principal Faculty with Ballet West's pre-professional training program. A native of Fairfield, Connecticut, she trained atConnecticut Dance School and The Harid Conservatory, where she graduated as Valedictorian in 1998. She performed with The Hartford Ballet for a year before joining Ballet Internationale in 1999. In 2004, she joined Ballet West, retiring as a Principal Artist in May 2021. She holds a Bachelor's of Fine Arts in Ballet with a Teaching Emphasis from the University of Utah.In our conversation, Katherine shares about cultivating a positive environment, embracing what makes you uncomfortable, and making decisions to support being a well-rounded dancer.Learn more about Katherine and Ballet West - including their summer program: https://www.academy.balletwest.org/summer.You can learn more about dance education and career planning for dancers at theballerinatist.com.

In the final segment of our Mental Health Awareness Month series, For the People wants to introduce you to Team Woofgang & Co., a nonprofit founded by three Fairfield mothers of adults with alternate abilities who were looking to provide daily purpose for them while reducing the likelihood of possible future mental health issues as they "aged out" of local educational programs. 

A "bell-to-bell" ban on cellphones in Fairfield's schools has reached the Board of Education. Superintendent of Schools, Michael Testani, introduced three policies tackling cell phone rules in the district. We got more clarity from him on these policies and how soon they could go into effect. Image Credit: Getty Images

There's groundbreaking news in the Naugatuck Valley both literally and figuratively - and we'll bring in the first of two representatives from Griffin Hospital to talk about it as the health center ramps up development of an innovative behavioral health unit to provide more effective, compassionate care for individuals who come to the ER experiencing a mental health crisis. Then, in the final segment of our Mental Health Awareness Month series, we'll introduce you to Team Woofgang & Co., a nonprofit founded by three Fairfield mothers of adults with alternate abilities looking to provide daily purpose for them as they were about to leave their state provided educational programs.  And we'll close by giving you a spectacular preview of the 2025 International Festival of Arts & Ideas, which is already expanding its programming across the New Haven region - and will culminate in hundreds of programs, concerts, exhibits, talks, and more in the coming weeks - most of them absolutely free!

I finally met Bachio adn we had a great time at the Diesel Dirt and Turf expo in Sydney. Shortly after we recorded this interview so you can get some insight into the Whipper Snipper destruction and mayhem along with his actual business which is growing in an area where he becoming quite a strong player

Summer Arrives on the Atlantic Coast of Maine, in time for his first time.A 7-part series by Member389. Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Stories. I was finally glad to be out of school. My buddy Jeff got out last year. He went off and joined the military and left our little town. I figured I'd work the summer here and see what was what after the tourists left. It was still early yet, they hadn't started arriving yet, clogging the roads with their luxury cars, acting as if they owned the place. Truth be told, they did. If it weren't for them, the rest of us wouldn't have a living. Fishing wasn't cutting it anymore, and the old quarries down coast were barely running now. Luckily we had the tourists.I walked down into the village near the docks, and popped into the little corner store."Hey Peter." I heard as I walked in. Paula nodded at me and smiled. She and her husband ran this little place, and did well by the locals and tourists alike. I waved and smiled at her as I headed to the back and grabbed a soda from the cooler."You headed over to see Davy about work?" She asked."Yea, I figure I gotta do something before mom tosses me out of the house." I chuckled."Would you do me a favor? Chip is out on a delivery and we're short-handed. Is there any chance you could make a delivery for me, it's on your way. The lady has an account so you don't need to collect any money. It's just, I heard she twisted her ankle on the beach and I told her that if she needed anything to call us and I'd get it over to her.""Sure, where is it going?" I said.She handed me two canvas sacks from the cooler, and gave me the address. It was just a couple blocks over from where I was headed. Paula refused to let me pay for my soda before leaving. I walked the few blocks turning up onto the driveway that led to a house facing the water. I walked around the house looking for the kitchen door. As I turned the corner I saw a woman lying on a towel on the lawn. She lay there basking in the morning sun completely naked. A small pile of fabric beside her looked like a swimsuit she may have been wearing. I stopped and looked around, the spot was well sheltered on the curve in the road. Her long blonde hair trailed out above her on her towel, her arms down at her sides, her deep pink nipples pointing up to the sun. Her stomach was flat and a little glint of something shiny hinted at a belly button ring. From this distance I couldn't be sure. A small strip of hair dipped down between her thighs. Her legs were long toned and pale, but getting red. She had just started tanning by the color she'd turned already. She was going to look like a freshly boiled lobster in a very short time.I realized she hadn't heard or seen me, so I turned and cleared my throat loudly. I looked over my shoulder, and she hadn't moved. I decided I'd just put the groceries in the house for her. I set the bags on the kitchen table and peeked to make sure nothing needed to be put in the icebox. Thankfully I did or the cold stuff would have spoiled. I put them away and left the rest. I walked towards the back door again and looked out the screen at her. She was beautiful, like she'd just stepped out of a magazine centerfold. She still hadn't moved, and it wouldn't be long before she burned badly. So I took it upon myself to rescue her, that's just the kind of guy I am. I opened the back door and pushed it open as far as possible and let it swing shut. The loud rap of the wood on the frame did the trick. She jumped, then the realization that somebody was near and she was naked came on her and she rolled onto the grass pulling the towel over her covering up. I saw why she hadn't heard me as an earbud fell out onto the grass.She peeked over the top of her big sunglasses, and in an accent I hadn't heard around here, she asked. "Can I help you?" The scolding tone of her voice saying that she didn't appreciate being peeked at while she was sunbathing.I scrunched up my face. "Where are you from?" I asked, curious about her accent."Right here buster, I'm renting this place. Where in hell did you come from?" She replied."Oh! Paula down at the market asked me to deliver your groceries. They were shorthanded and I was headed this way."She just stared at me for a moment, and I returned the stare taking in the scene with a dumb-founded look."Would you be a gentleman and please turn around?" She said a little testily. I did as she asked. Unfortunately for her I'd turned and was looking directly at her reflection in the kitchen window. She stood up cursing quietly, putting her weight on one foot, and wrapped the towel around her and tucked it in above her breasts. She was tall, and though her breasts weren't large they were nicely shaped, and red. The little stripe of hair ended neatly where I thought. The towel was just long enough to cover her modestly. She hobbled over to the little pile of cloth and swept up her bikini and started hobbling towards the house like a wounded animal. She passed me and got to the step and hobbled up the half step, and opened the door using it for stability and hopped up the step into the kitchen.She hobbled back to the screen door and said. "Well come on in."I walked over and stepped into the kitchen. She was sitting down on one of the chairs one leg splayed out in front of her the other tucked under the chair. The smooth skin was kissed with a flush of pink. I knew she was going to regret falling asleep out there later, but I'm glad I happened to wake her up so she didn't get severely burned. She was fumbling with her towel to keep it up, and digging through a big pocket book."Paula said that you have an account." I held up my hand. "I'm not going back to the store anyhow."She peeked up at me from her purse through a tangle of long blonde hair. "Thank you, but I was going to give you something for the trouble. She mentioned that you wouldn't be here until afternoon because it was busy today." A pink nipple peaked over the top of the polka dot beach towel. She caught me staring. "Though it could be surmised that you already got your tip." She said an eyebrow going up, and a small grin turning the corners of her mouth up. She shook her head as she pulled the towel back into place and tossed the purse onto the table. She held her arm out straight with a folded bill in it. I just shook my head once and waved it off."Thanks, but you don't need to do that." I said."Don't make me get up, my ankle hurts like hell, and I'm in no shape to use it to kick your ass for being a peeping tom." She replied grinning. She waved the money again. I shrugged and took it slipped into my jeans pocket. I was hoping she hadn't noticed they were tighter in front than a moment before."Thanks." I nodded."No, thank you Chip, I would have come into town to get them later but she insisted on having you deliver them."I smiled. "I'm not Chip. He was doing another delivery. I'm Pete.""Nice to meet you." She said holding out a hand. "I'm Summer."I shook her hand. She had a firm grip and didn't let up until I did. I just stood there for a moment looking at her. She had mesmerizing blue eyes and a crooked little smile. I realized I was staring when her brow went up. I felt myself blush."Are you thirsty? I could use something cold." Summer asked. I nodded."If you don't mind, there's a pitcher of iced tea in the fridge. I'm going to go put something on besides a towel.""Not on my account I hope?" Why not, I figured, she seemed to have a sense of humor about getting caught. I smiled over my shoulder at her as I reached for the cupboard door. She laughed aloud at that.She stood again, wobbling, and took her bikini in hand and walked towards the living room and gasped grabbing for the door jamb. In the process the towel let go and she stood there grasping the towel in one hand the door in the other. Her long smooth back tapered to a narrow waist and flared back out to beautifully curved hips. On her back was a pretty sunflower tattoo with vines around it. There looked to be a figure in the center of it."Oh to hell with it. I don't think I've got anything left to hide at this point." She muttered and hobbled out of the room. I opened up the freezer and got a tray of ice out, and filled the glasses. I heard her fumbling around a bit and she started to hobble back out. She'd pulled a light blue flowered sundress on, and taken a minute to brush out her hair. She hobbled over to an easy chair in the living room and sat down. "Would you be a doll and bring that in here?"I walked into the living room and she was gingerly setting her foot on the coffee table. I handed her a glass and set the other down. I took the towel she'd tossed on the sofa and folded it up into a little bundle and went to take her leg. I stopped myself and looked up at her, from under fallen bangs."May I?" I asked. She held her glass with both hands, licking tea from her upper lip, and nodded. I lifted her calf, the skin smooth and warm in my hand, and slipped the folded towel under her ankle to pad it from the table. I set it down carefully and she let out a sigh. I sat down on the sofa and took up my glass. I was looking into the glass at the ice cubes floating around. I set it back down and went to the kitchen, found a plastic bag and filled it with the rest of the ice. I looked down at her, she sat there wide eyed as I reached to carefully set it on her ankle."Thank you," She said softly, with a smile "again.""You slammed the door on purpose didn't you?" She asked."Well you were beginning to look like a lobster out there, fresh from the pot. I wasn't sure if you were asleep and I didn't want you to burn, or worse." I said.She smiled. "Thank you." She said, and after a moment she added, "West Virginia.""Rockport here, welcome to Maine." I toasted her with my tea, and we clinked glasses. Neither of us said anything we just sat there enjoying our tea."You said this was on your way? Where were you going?" Summer asked."I was headed down to Davy's marina down the road." I said. Then pointed. "If you go down Sea Road and bear right. He runs a couple of boats for fishing, sightseeing and whale watching. I was going to see if he needed any help this summer."She nodded, and looked down at her ankle. Water running down her leg from the condensation on the bag."If he doesn't give you a job on a boat, you might want to consider going to medical school." She chuckled. "You're a quick thinker and have a gentle touch. I don't mean to keep you from where you were headed but since this is really feeling like hell." She pointed at her foot. "I was wondering if you could do me another favor before you leave.""Sure, what else do you need, lunch?" I asked.She laughed. "Well that would be nice, but I was just going to ask you to go into the bathroom and grab the ace bandage that's rolled up on the counter and the bottle of pain killers for me. I want to get this wrapped again, now that I'm not worried I'll look like a cat with one white paw."I set my glass down, and went to the bath and found the items. I found a bottle of sunburn lotion on the counter and brought that too."I see you came prepared to burn." I looked at the bottle."Well when you're as white as I am, it happens often, especially this early in the season." Summer said as she reached up for the items. She reached down and took the ice off, and dried her foot off on the towel. She crossed her legs, her dress riding up high as she reached to start unrolling the bandage.I laughed. "That looks more awkward than a lobster trying to climb a tree." I reached out for the bandage and took it from her. "Let me show you how it's done." I sat on the edge of the coffee table and laid her leg across mine. I wrapped her ankle neatly slipping the clips on at the end with a flourish. I looked at her toes peeking up, the nails a sparkly pink color. A small throat clear broke me out of my reverie, only to notice that I'd been absently stroking her shin and calf. I snatched my hand away, and felt my face turn bright red again. I looked down at the rug and apologized."For what? Doing a better job than I would wrapping my ankle? Or maybe the lame lobster jokes." She flipped a hand at me and took the bottle and popped it open. She poured out her dose and knocked them back with a swallow of her tea."I should take these with food." She took her foot off my lap and set it gingerly on the floor, grabbing the arms of the chair preparing to get up."Whoa! Where are you going?" I asked."I was going to go see what was in those bags to eat." She said."Sit down. I'll get you something." I answered quickly.She rolled her eyes at me. "You've done far more than you should have for a tired, broken down old lady." She rolled forward again, and I put my hand on her shoulder to keep her balance back."I'll get it." I said firmly. "What would you like?""You are too sweet." She said, relaxing back into the chair. "What did you bring?"I went into the kitchen to rummage through the bags. Given a little creativity and a few minutes time I whipped up a sandwich and chips. I peeked around the door jamb to ask if she wanted mustard or mayo on her turkey. The sight that greeted me stopped me in my tracks. Summer had sat forward on the chair, and slipped the straps off the sundress pushing it down to her waist. She sat there slowly rubbing in the sunburn cream into her skin. She finished her arms and began working on her chest rubbing slowly giving each nipple a pinch and tug. My jeans felt about ready to explode at the sight of her. I popped my head back around the door and called out asking my question. She replied, mustard. I responded that it was ready then, to give her time to cover up.I walked into the room with the plate in front of me and the bag of chips dangling beneath to try and hide my arousal. I sat quickly as I handed her the plate, hoping I'd covered myself well enough."Ooh thanks!" She said setting the plate down and reaching for half the sandwich. She just stopped and looked at me. "You didn't make one for yourself?" I shook my head. "Here," she handed me the other half, "I hate eating alone."I shrugged and took the other half, and we ate quietly. I asked her how she twisted her ankle. Exploring wet rocks on the outbound tide, she'd slipped and thought she'd broken it. She had gotten an X-ray and it was only a bad sprain."Ironic. I ended up having to postpone starting work at the very hospital that I was going to be starting at next week." She said."Oh? You a doctor?" I asked."RN, and I was serious earlier, you have a gentle touch, and you wrap a mean ankle." She followed with a smile."Sports." I said by way of explanation. She nodded.She opened her mouth laying a chip on her tongue and took it in whole giving it a crunch. I didn't know why, but she fascinated me on an entirely new level. I'd seen naked girls before, well in magazines and movies, anyway. Here sat a woman who, unlike those from around here, wasn't scandalized by having her body admired. This isn't the end of the world, but not far from it."How old are you Pete." She asked. I told her the truth, that I was nineteen, and I'd just graduated last month. She offered me the chips, and I took a few."What are your plans from here?" She asked."I honestly don't know. I have no idea what I want to be when I grow up." I said chuckling.She set the chips aside and wiped her hands on the towel. She took up the bottle of cream and popped the cap up. She nonchalantly pulled up the hem on her dress to a nearly indecent level and leaned forward and began rubbing the cream into her leg. She continued to ask me about the area, what there was to do after school got out. She worked her hand further up her thigh, the warm pink flesh supple under her fingers. She pulled back again, the hem of the dress slid up, and a peek of pink lace appeared. She asked if I had a girlfriend. Which made me pause. She started on the other leg working from the ankle up to the knee. She stopped and looked at me when I didn't reply."No?" She asked, no doubt noticing that I'd been watching every movement she made.I just shook my head looking down at the floor. "No. I've gone out a few times, but never really had a girlfriend."She looked down her leg again, massaging her up her thigh slowly. Watching her was not helping the situation in my jeans one bit."That's too bad. Seems an awful waste of resources if you ask me." She smirked."Huh?" I said looking up at her with a quizzical look.She bit her lower lip and looked me in the eye for a moment, then down at my lap, and nodded.I must have turned deep red, she looked up at me and smiled, then busted out laughing."Oh my God! You're as innocent as the day you were born, aren't you?" She asked grinning ear to ear.I stammered."Oh hell." She waved her hand. "Don't be embarrassed hon. I'm sorry, I didn't mean to get you a hard time." She reached over and gave my wrist a quick squeeze. The feel of her warm hand sent a shock up my arm. She leaned back in the chair, not bothering to adjust her dress. The little pink lace peeking out kept drawing my eye. I could feel her eyes studying me as I tried not to look.She started softly. "Am I the first woman you've ever seen naked?" She followed with, "in person?"I cleared my throat. "Well, that close, yea." I said softly. "Last summer, my friend and I found a cove where some girls go to tan in the summer, but we stay well back. They mostly only took their tops off. Jeff had binoculars." I felt my ears turn red.Summer smiled again biting her lip. "So, the peeping tom thing isn't new." She giggled. She was enjoying teasing me. A moment of silence passed while I looked anywhere but at her. "Stand up Pete, and come here." I looked at her and did as she asked. She slowly reached up, and tugged the straps of her dress to the side, and looped her arms up through, pushing it down her torso. Her breasts popped free, the cherry red nipples stiff in the cool breeze coming through the house. She looked up at me from under a lock of hair, still biting her lip. Time seemed to stop, and I wasn't sure what to do next, but instinct pushed me to reach out and cup her breast. It was warm and soft in my hand, and I stroked it gently. I reached up with my thumb and rubbed the nipple. A sigh as she inhaled deeply, her eyes were closed while I explored. I rolled it between my thumb and finger it was as hard as a pencil eraser."That feels nice." She said softly. I stroked the curve up to her chest, and back down between them following it around.Time started again when I jumped back startled. I hadn't expected it when her hand reached up and pressed against the front of my jeans."Oh!" She giggled. "I didn't mean to scare you. I just thought you might enjoy a little rub too." She nodded at my jeans. "Let me see it."I went wide eyed like a deer in caught in headlights."Come on. It's only fair, you saw mine." She urged. Her hand slid down raising the hem of her dress showing off the pink lace panties with black lace trim. She circled the front with her finger, pressing as she did. She reached over and took the last swallow of her tea and caught an ice cube from the glass. Swirling it around her mouth. She opened her mouth showing me that she was rolling the cube around with her tongue.Without conscious thought my hands reached for my zipper to release the pressure built up behind it. I pulled it down as she watched intently. I unbuttoned the fly of my boxers and the pressure was gone as my hard cock pushed its way out seeking relief.Summer made an approving sound deep in her throat at the sight of it. "Ooh that's nice." The ice cube clicked on her teeth and she crushed it quickly, chewing the bits of ice. She looked up at me and made a come hither motion with her free hand, the other still working on the pink lace. I stepped forward as if she were drawing me towards her with an invisible tether. She reached up slowly this time and took me gently into her hand. Stroking the shaft and rubbing the tip with her thumb. I gasped, my breath coming in short panting breaths. "That's it, easy now." She said in a soothing voice, as if calming a frantic animal. "You aren't going to last very long."My body was humming like a taut wire as she gently stroked me. In a move that surprised me, she leaned forward and took me into her mouth. The cold sensation from her chewing the ice nearly pushed me over the top. I gasped. She licked my cock like a kid with an ice cream cone, her icy tongue dragging away at me. I knew I was about to cum, and she did too. She stepped up the pace of her licking, and took me into her mouth once more sliding down further until I lost it. I felt my hips jerk forward and she put her hand on my thigh to keep me from choking her. I grabbed for the first thing at hand, and it happened to be the back of her head, and I erupted. My body stiffened as I gasped for air. I felt as if she was drawing me inside out. I exploded in her mouth, her tongue cleaning up the mess I'd made."Is that the first time a girl has done that to you?" She asked softly, lapping my still hard cock. I nodded between gasping breaths."You poor thing. Have you ever thought of what it would be like to lick a girl down there?" She asked innocently. I looked down to find her fingers had slipped into the panties and were making deep circular motions. I had to think, because if I hadn't before now, I certainly was beginning to. She kept darting her tongue out, giving me soft licks and quick flicks with her tongue and thought I could do that.She stood up awkwardly not putting her weight on her bad ankle, and reached up beneath her sundress tugging at the fabric. Soon her panties were around her knees. She turned and tossed the towel onto the chair and spread it out."Oh screw it." She said pushed down the fabric of her sundress as it slid over her hips. She sat down pushing her dress and panties off and tossed them on the couch. She leaned back on the chair as I watched her chest rise and fall with her slow deep breathing. My eyes followed down her taut stomach, a small silver heart dangled from her belly button on a chain. My eyes scanned further down and found the top of her little narrow strip, the soft tuft of dark blonde hair leading to deep pink lips. I stood there with my mouth hanging open as she set her leg back up on the coffee table, opening up a little more for me. I licked my dry lips, which must have been a sign."That's what I like to see. A willing student." She smiled and winked at me. "Grab a pillow and kneel down. I'll give you a quick lesson on the special anatomy of a girl." She chuckled. I did as she asked and knelt before her. She proceeded to point out the highlights softly, in an encouraging voice. Explaining how best to please a woman down there.I leaned forward, my nose filling with the scent of her. I reached forward licking upward between her spread fingers. She let out a deep sigh and I began licking and nibbling. I tilted my head up and began swirling her clit with my tongue like she'd done to my cock. She threw her head back and her jaw dropped as a low moan escaped her lips.She panted quickly. "Slip your finger inside me, and make a come here motion." She mimed it with one finger.I did as she asked, slipping my middle finger into her as far as I could. It was wet, and warm and I could feel her tighten down on me. I started off slowly stroking in and out of her, then remembered how she'd shown me and I rubbed up and forward and back again. I had forgotten what I was doing and noticed she'd reached down to start stroking her clit with incredible speed. I leaned down putting my tongue to it again, and began flicking it with my tongue as fast as I could. Summer arched up off the chair and began yelling, 'Oh my God.' She stayed that way for nearly a minute before collapsing back into the chair gasping for air. My hand was soaked with her juices. I wasn't sure, but I figured I'd done well. I used the corner of the towel to wipe my hand. I looked at her swollen, wet and deep pink lips and just leaned forward and began lapping up the mess she'd made, slowly with the tip of my tongue. She inhaled sharply and her legs came together quickly."Easy there." She said pushing my head away gently. "It's very sensitive after." She released the grip she had of my hair and ran her fingers through it. She was just looking at me smiling while I licked my lips."So how did I do teach?" I asked.She chuckled. "I'd say you did pretty damn well for a first-timer. I'll give you an A plus for effort and an A for technique." She smiled. I was hard as a rock, and wondered if I was going to be allowed to follow through with the next thing that came to my mind."Are you a typical young guy with a raincoat in your wallet?" She asked, reading my mind. I looked at her with my quizzical look again. She just rolled her eyes and shook her head. I sighed looking down, and shook my head slowly. I got a slightly scolding look in reply. I wasn't sure if it was because I didn't have one, or that she was unhappy about it as well."Get up." She said giving a slight push to my forehead. I leaned back and stood in a single motion. I nearly fell over backwards when I realized I still had both legs caught with my jeans around my knees. Summer leaned forward to grab my arm and help me balance. She nodded down at them and without saying a word let me know that I should get them off. She gripped my hand solidly and pulled herself carefully out of the chair and hobbled a step aside. She reached down taking the rumpled beach towel off the chair and flipped it in half and lay it on the center cushion of the sofa. She turned me back to and gave me a push so I fell back onto it."Don't move." She said leveling a serious gaze at me. She hobbled back off to the bedroom. A little rustling later she came back with something closed in her fist. She pulled the coffee table up close and sat gently on the edge of it facing me."First things first. It's never her responsibility to make sure you're prepared." She said holding up a little foil packet. "If you aren't prepared, then keep it in your pants, or her hand if you're lucky enough." She smiled. "The only time it'll be up to her to help is now. If she'd like to." She reached forward and began slowly stroking me, her fingers firm and soft at the same time. "You see, you can't wrap the rascal unless he's primed and ready." She smiled. "I'll show you how best to use this so you don't end up a daddy too soon, or worse."I smiled and rolled my eyes."Hey, we can stop right now if you like." She said levelly at me. The shock on my face must have been plain as day. "That's what I thought." She smiled and looked down at my hard cock. "I'd hate to stop now myself." She peeled the wrapper down the side pulling out the little ring. She held it close for me to see. "See how it's rolled up? Place it with the rolled side up over the tip like this." She reached holding my cock in one hand and setting the condom on the tip. "Unroll gently down the shaft like this." She said sliding her fingers down my shaft unrolling it fully. "All the way down. That's important since she's not going to want to fish the thing out of her if it comes off in the middle of your good time. It also makes it pretty useless if that happens." She gave the base of my cock a little squeeze. She pulled my knees together, and stood up kneeling on the sofa straddling me."This is a good position for us to start with. It gives a woman the ability to control the depth and speed with which you entering her. Missionary isn't bad, but if you get a little over zealous it can end up hurting her. If you want to her to ever want you back in her again then it's best to make sure she has a good time too." She said reaching down between us she ran her finger up and down her swollen lips."Remember to open her gently beforehand, the more care you take with her, the more likely she'll be calling you for more." She sat up, and lined herself up over my cock and took my shoulders as I took her by the hips. She looked down at me for a moment, one eyebrow going up."Oh." I said reaching between us and stroking her still wet lips placing fingers on either side and gently opening her up. As I did she lowered herself on me. The sigh that escaped my lips was loud. I nearly passed out from the feeling of the warmth and tightness, as she slowly rode the entire way down my length. A soft purr came from her throat.She sat there for a moment and proceeded to just tighten herself around me and relax. I started pushing urgently with my hips."Easy does it." She whispered into my ear then licked her way down nibbling the lobe and kissing my neck. "A woman's nipples are very sensitive, and shouldn't be neglected." She took my hand and ran it up to her small breast. Lifting it away slightly and rubbing her nipple with my fingers. She bit her lower lip as I took the hint and stroked her breasts and rolled the nipples between my fingers. I leaned forward taking it in my mouth rolling it around, lashing it with my tongue. Summer sighed deeply and rolled her hips forward and started rising up and lowering herself on me. My other hand found its way behind her gripping her ass and pulling her down onto me with each stroke. She started a long deep stroking rhythm that I thought was going to drive me over the top again. She must have noticed my urgency as my hips rose to meet her down stroke hard. She stopped on an upstroke and let me slip out of her and I thought I was going to die when my eyes popped open pleading with her. She smiled at me."What's your hurry? Aren't you enjoying yourself?" She said sweetly.I nodded furiously. "Yes I am." I gasped."Good. The journey can be as much fun as the destination, so take your time." She got off the couch. I looked at her pleading with her not to stop now. "Let's see how well you improvise." She said.She turned around and knelt down on the pillow that was on the floor, and leaned forward setting her elbows on the chair she was sitting in before. Her beautiful ass, up in the air her lips open and pouting in invitation. I scrambled off the couch and knelt behind her, nearly ready to drive my cock into her when I paused and opened her up slipping back into herShe whipped her hair over one shoulder and looked at me over the other. "You're in the drivers' seat now. It's going to be up to you to be aware of the clues a girl is giving you. If she's pulling away from you, you're fucking her to hard. If she's pushing against you, well she wants you to put the pedal to the metal, so to speak." I pushed forward feeling myself fall into her and never wanting to leave. I began pushing and she met me stroke for stroke as I sped up. I couldn't take it any longer. Summer let out several long high pitched moans followed by a gasping, 'Harder!' and I went into overdrive. Plunging her depths with abandon I finally drove her forward hard, pushing her hips against the chair as I exploded. I stiffened as I felt every ounce of strength drain from my body. Summer shuddered hard in my hands bringing me out of my daze."Are you okay?" I gasped between breaths.She rose up slightly, hair a complete mess covering her face. She started to laugh, gasping for air. "I was just thinking, this vacation started off lousy, but it's improving nicely."I chuckled. "Welcome to Maine, Vacationland." She busted out laughing at that. I backed away falling free of her, the cool breeze came in from the screen, cooling the sweat on my skin."Let's get cleaned up." She stood shakily, with the help of the arms of the chair. I stood as well. She turned and slipped an arm around my shoulders. "Help me to the bathroom, would you please?" I looked at her, and turned slightly and reached down picking her up off the floor. She let out a whoop of surprise. "I only needed a shoulder to lean on honestly." She said smiling."So lean on it." I said smiling. I negotiated the narrow path to the bathroom and brought her in careful not to bang her against the doorjamb. I set her on a little stool next to a big claw foot bathtub."Let me get that." Summer reached over and popped up a tissue and reached up sliding the condom off of me and wrapping it and tossing it in the trash. She looked up at me, her hair still a mess. I reached down pushing it off her forehead. She smiled. "Grab a washcloth for me, would you please?" She nodded at a small shelf, and I took one down and handed it to her. She reached over to the bath running water onto it and a little squirt of her bath gel. She frothed it up and began washing herself off. She rinsed and repeated. She dried herself with another towel hanging from the bar. She looked up at me from under her bangs, scanning down. "Really?" She said in a resigned voice as she saw that I was once again ready.I shrugged. "The benefit of youth?"She laughed. "I guess!"She rinsed the cloth again and began gently washing me with it. The cool water and warm hands were soothing but not doing a thing for the fact that it was loaded and ready to go yet again."Would you hand me that light blue bottle there." She asked. She poured a small amount into her palm and set the bottle aside. She rubbed the oil between her hands and rubbed it between her legs oiling herself up. The sight of this was not doing me any good either. A crooked smirk spread across her face as she watched me watching her in fascination.She reached up with her oily hand and began stroking my shaft. The hardness slipping through her firm grip with little friction. The other hand began fondling my balls. They were already tight, and ready to go again. She slid her hand further under and began massaging me underneath in a tight circle. The feeling blew my mind as I couldn't contain myself and came hard, with a loud splatter, on Summer's chest."Not sure if it's good for burns, but I've heard it does wonders for the skin." She said, leaning forward cleaning the last few drops off with her tongue. She then used her cloth to wipe up the cum I'd splashed on her chest.. I just watched her, her movements so graceful and efficient.She looked up at me with a smirk. "Pete, how would you like to give me a hand for a couple weeks while this ankle heals?"My eyebrows went up. "How?" I asked."The usual mow the lawn, grocery runs, cleaning, maybe even an occasional turkey sandwich. It'll allow me to keep off this as much as possible and not feel like I'm an invalid. I'll warn you now though it's not only doctors that make lousy patients."It was my turn to smirk. "What's it pay?" I asked wiggling my eyebrows.Her mouth dropped open. "You little shit! I'm not hiring you to be a gigolo!" She laughed. "But there's always the possibility of a bonus. I could continue your lessons. Practice makes perfect they say." She smiled at that."I don't know." I said, my spent cock hanging inches from her lips. Oh I knew alright, but I played along. "I'll have to see what Davy has to offer this year. Those rich folks that come in to fill up can be pretty good tippers too."She raised an eyebrow at me again. "Okay if you'd rather work for him I'll understand." She said in mock resignation. She stood on her good foot, testing the floor with her bad. I instinctively wrapped my arm around her waist."You drive a hard bargain." I said pulling her to my side so she could put her arm over my shoulder.She looked me up and down me and smiled. "This vacation isn't turning out bad at all."To be continued in part 2, by Member389 for LiteroticaSummer In Maine: Part 2Lesson Two, and Two and a half.A 7-part series by Member389. Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Stories.This summer job wasn't turning out the way I'd thought. So far I'd mowed the lawn, done the dishes, (thankfully there's a dishwasher) hauled trash, done laundry, dusted and vacuumed. When Summer asked if I wanted to help her out for a few weeks I sort of expected there would be fringe benefits to go with, or instead of, getting paid. Instead it was actual work. She wasn't shy, about her body or mine, she often would wrap her arm around my waist to help with her balance. She occasionally stroked my ass through my jeans. I didn't hesitate to return the favor but I always ended up with only a smile in return. I figured after that first day when I took the job I might get some more personal time with her. The other night I helped her to run a bath, and she shooed me out of the bathroom. One night we watched a late movie I slept over, and ended up on the couch. Something didn't seem right about all of this. Nearly a week had gone by, and it was as if that first day hadn't even happened, and I was too shy to say anything. I hitched the grocery bag I was carrying a little higher, tonight, I'd say something tonight.I walked up to the kitchen stoop and pulled open the screen door and I heard a gasping cry. I dropped the bags on the table and darted into the living room, she wasn't there. Another cry, and I looked to the right and saw the bedroom door was open. I walked quietly towards the door, and Summer was laying back on the bed naked except for her bandaged ankle. She was sliding a pink vibrator up and down between her thighs. She tilted it slightly and slid it into her, her other hand pulling on her nipple. I was instantly hard watching her pleasure herself. She let go of the nipple and slid her hand down and began flicking her clit, rubbing it fast. She arched her back crying out "Yes!" She pulled the vibrator out slipping her fingers in as she came. She continued rubbing her clit slowly and stroked her fingers in and out for a few before falling flat to the sheets like a deflated balloon. Her breathing was fast and shallow."How long have you been watching?" She asked, not looking up. She looked absolutely radiant, her skin flushed pink through her tan. Her hair was a tangled mess of sun streaked gold, she looked fantastic."Just a couple minutes." I said quietly looking down at the floor. I heard the old brass headboard creak and I peeked up. She had raised her head and was looking at me."What's the matter?" She asked gently. I shrugged and walked out to the kitchen, and started putting away the groceries."I picked up some local shrimp for lunch. I'll put them on ice in the fridge." I said loudly from the kitchen. I turned and Summer was leaning against the doorway to the kitchen watching me with her arms crossed in front of her, buck naked. She gave me a shrewd glance."Please tell me what's bothering you."I looked at her for a moment, then turned away and put a couple other items in the fridge."Nothing." I said, unconvincingly."It's just..." I started. I looked over at her and said."Never mind." I walked out to the yard looking around to see if I should mow the lawn again already or not. I heard the screen door bang shut behind me. I felt her hand on my shoulder as she stepped up beside me."I love it here. The salty sea air, the big sky, everything seems so much simpler." She said softly. I instinctively wrapped my arm around her waist, her skin was warm and damp."Why?" I asked softly."Why what, Pete?" She asked with surprising sincerity. "Why haven't we had sex since Monday? Is that what you want to know? Are you asking me if you were a one afternoon-stand? What Pete? Ask me." She urged.Her words inflamed me and my frustration flared. "Yes!" I turned to face her, her arm sliding down from my shoulder. "Was I just a one shot deal? Screw me, then have me cook and clean for you?" I immediately sensed I'd gone too far and full well expected a slap. I'd deserve it if she did. I opened my eyes wide.She stood there looking at me, her eyes smoldering. She coolly pointed out. "Which one of us is the one standing here naked?" I stood there a moment longer, every muscle in my body taut like a drawn bow. I snapped and took hold of her and kissing her hard as our lips parted, tongues lashing out at each other like sparring fencers. Her arms wrapped around my waist pulling us together."Damn, I thought I you'd never come around." She said between kisses. I leaned back and gave her a queer look."What?" I asked, completely confused. She grinned ear to ear."Lesson number 2, confidence is sexy. Hell it took me walking around naked to get your damned attention. What the hell is wrong with you?" She bopped me on the forehead. I shrugged, feeling completely confused. I had no idea what she was talking about."This exercise, which you nearly failed miserably I might add, was to see if you would take the lead. I personally tend to be a bit passive. Therefore, as the guy, you need to learn to take the lead, just like dancing." She held my hand up and snugged her hand around my back and gave a little sway."The other night when you fell asleep on the couch I laid awake waiting for you for nearly an hour. I finally took matters into my own hands, maybe I should have made more noise.""I knew girls were crazy. I honestly was hoping to get more insight from you, not more confused." I said smiling. "You were waiting for me?""You haven't seen crazy yet, give me a week." She winked.I groaned, then kissed her again, holding her against me, my hands stroking down her back to her ass massaging it as I pulled her to me. Holding her was like holding a flame, seductive, hypnotizing and hot, and I didn't care if I got burned."Tell me you've had the good sense to pick up some protection." Summer mumbled between kisses. Without breaking our kiss I reached back for my wallet and held it up."Please tell me you bought more than one." She growled. I felt her hands come between us resting on the waist of my jeans unbuttoning them and grabbing for the zipper. She pushed my jeans and boxers down far enough for me to escape captivity. She let out an appreciative hum as she ran her hand up and down my hardened length. She broke our kiss long enough to grab the hem of my polo shirt and drag it up pulling it over my head. She leaned down and took one of my nipples into her mouth. I gasped out loud at how the sensation shot through me. It felt as if my cock was getting even harder and I didn't think that was possible."Holy shit! Does it feel this way when I do this to you?" I gasped.She hummed an agreement as she switched to the other side, then stepped back and looked at me smiling.I stood dumb-founded for a moment. I quickly realized she was waiting for me to do something. She placed her hands on her hips and gave them a slight tilt. "I'm all yours, all you need do is tell me how you'd like me, or better yet, show me." She winked. I kicked off my shoes and pushed my pants the rest of the way off and looked at her for a moment. The sun kissed her body so exquisitely, her pink nipples hard and pointing straight at me. Her hair was blowing in the breeze surrounding angelic face like a golden halo. I stepped forward, wrapped her up in my arms again and kissed her deeply. I ran my hand up between us taking her breast in my hand cupping it twirling the nipple in my fingers. I work my mouth down her jaw, kissing her neck and I feel her shudder and gasp. I moved down the center of her chest trailing kisses to the other nipple and teased it with my tongue before taking into my mouth suckling it gently. A moan escaped her lips. Her hand was pulling me towards her, fingers running through my hair. I wanted her so badly but I didn't want this to end. I pulled away looking up at her face, her mouth hung open her eyes half closed."Your ankle has to be killing you right now." I said, noting she'd been standing for a while now. I walked over and brought one of the Adirondack chairs over and set it behind her and she smiled. I laid my clothes on it to keep her from burning her ass on the sun heated wood. She just looked at me without sitting. "Sit down." I told her, and she tilted her head in assent and sat. I knelt down in front of her and kissed her nipple again and began trailing kisses down her stomach. She took the cue and leaned back on the chair. I flicked her little belly button ring aside and licked her belly button. She let out a whoop and jumped, chuckling."Ticklish?" I chuckled. She grasped a handful of my hair and gave me a little push further down, but I was going at my own pace and I made my way down nuzzling her little blond stripe. I kissed my way around her pouting lips, my tongue darting out giving little licks. She tasted sweet, the scent of her was driving me mad, I couldn't take it any longer and slipped my tongue into her as I massaged her clit.She arched her back and moaned. "Yes!" I lapped up to her clit taking it in my lips and giving it due attention. Her cries got louder and I stepped up the assault on her. Her leg came up over my shoulder and she pulled me hard into her with her heel. I let up a bit, I didn't want this to end too soon, it seemed that I wasn't the only one enjoying it. I slipped my middle finger into her, and felt her grip it tightly. Her hips started rocking forward. I was pretty sure I could finish her off quickly if I had a mind to, but I didn't. I continued bathing her clit, varying the pressure on it. She let out a few short gasps. "Please?!" She begged. I knew then I had to finish her and slipped another finger in to join the first and intensified my tongue lashing. Her hips lifted off the chair as she climaxed. She held on to me, still moaning, finally collapsing back into the chair panting."You sir, are a natural." She gasped. I returned her smile and licked my fingers."Am I mistaken, or is there a very hard cock in my immediate future?" I grinned even wider and nodded. "How would you like me?""Over hard." I said smiling. Her eyes lit up like a fire had been kindled."Well then, dig that little party hat out and show me how easy it is to put on."I chuckled and dove for my wallet lying on the grass a few feet away. I dug out the foil wrapper and crawled back. I tore open the packet holding the ring carefully and reaching down, putting in place and unrolled it carefully."Very good." She said her eyes flashing. She stood up and knelt down on the grass facing the chair. "Over like this? I'm sure you'll supply the 'hard' part." She added with a wink."Yes." I said, my breath shallow. I had to have her and scooted up behind her and lined up pushing the head in. I took her hips and pushed forward in a single motion burying myself in her.We both gasped loudly. In moments she started moving her hips back and forth and I pulled out and began taking slow strokes at first, but I knew I wasn't going to last. She leaned back pushing hard against me and I responded in kind driving forward, the sound of our bodies coming together pushed me into a frenzy. Her gasps were coming in short cries of, "Yes!" She began shaking in my hands, her moans coming from deep in her throat as she arched back into me and climaxed again pushing me over the edge. I drove her forward nearly knocking her and the chair over as I stiffened arching my back. I froze in place for what seemed an eternity, and not long enough both at the same time as I came deep in her.She leaned back against my chest, the heat of her skin against me was incredible, she reached behind us grasping my ass pulling our hips tight together. "I love how you feel inside me." She whispered. I leaned down and began kissing her shoulder, working my way up to her neck and nibbled on her ear."I love how you feel too." I said, my voice a little weak.She breathed a deep contented sigh. "What now?" A small smirk spread across her lips."I don't know about you but I worked up an appetite." I said. "Those shrimp sound good about now.""All this and you cook too. You're not going to be single long." She chuckled and reached up behind her and stroked my cheek. "I think we may need to move for that though." She said lightly, reminding me that I still had her pinned against the chair. I leaned back, pulling free of her. I stood stepping back, I gathered up my clothing. Summer put her good foot down and stood, steadying herself on the arms of the chair. "Let's go clean up and have lunch." She smiled slipping an arm around my waist and we went into the house.I started a pan for the shrimp, a little olive oil, some garlic and some red pepper flakes tossed on top of fresh spinach. My killer homemade vinaigrette to top and she would be mine. Well she already seemed to be. I stopped and stared out the little window above the sink out over the water. That thought caught me by surprise. What exactly was going on here? An hour ago I was pissed off for being shunned, now I was making her lunch with a silly, satisfied grin on my face.Summer hobbled into the kitchen wearing a pale blue tank top and panties with little pink hearts on them."Don't you own pants?" I asked smiling."Sure, would you rather I be fully dressed, or comfortable?" She asked."Oh I don't mind your outfit, as long as you don't mind your lunch burnt to a crisp." I laughed."What are you making?" She replied chuckling."I'm going to woo you with my culinary skills. My own special shrimp and spinach salad with homemade vinaigrette." I said."Wow, sounds awesome. You're a man of many talents. I think you're a little late in the wooing department though." She said smiling.My chest tightened at that. Nobody ever thought of me as a man before. Everybody has always treated me as a kid until now. The shock of it must have been evident in my expression."What?" She asked, her eyes widening. I didn't answer her, I just leaned forward and kissed her softly, she responded in turn."Nothing." I said, my grin returning."Need a hand?" I handed her two lemons with directions to squeeze the hell out of them then juice them for me into a bowl. I diced up the shallot, and garlic tossing them into the big bowl, salt and pepper followed. In went a huge dollop of spicy mustard, I looked at how much juice Summer had squeezed out of the lemons and eyeballed it pouring it into the bowl, straining out the seeds. I dug a whisk out of the drawer and started whisking in olive oil."Most vinaigrette recipes ask for vinegar, obviously. I like mine with lemon juice, especially with seafood." I said. I stopped whisking dribbling a little onto my finger to try it. "That's the ticket." I said offering a taste to Summer who agreed with a little sound. I set the big bowl aside and had her start splitting the cherry tomatoes. The shrimp were rinsed and patted dry on a towel, and I threw some garlic into the pan starting it with some of the olive oil. I salted and peppered the shrimp and in they went tossing them around to coat them all with the hot oil. They were ready in a couple minutes and the kitchen smelled terrific. I stacked the plates with spinach and started building the salads with the tomatoes, red onions, shrimp and as a topper sliced almonds."If this tastes like it looks, you're staying on as cook after this heals." She said lifting her foot behind her."Prepare to have your mind blown." I said handing her a plate and a fork. I had brought a small baguette with me which I'd sliced up and we ate."A girl could get used to this." She smiled popping a shrimp into her mouth. Cooking for a girl is a sure way into her panties."I laughed. "Even if she wasn't wearing any?""Well she's wearing some now." Her eyes flashed."But for how long?" I said playing along."You have your driver's license don't you?" She asked, changing the subject."Yea, I just don't have a car of my own yet." I said, wondering why she asked."Do you know of anybody that would loan you one, like your folks?""Yea I'm sure I can get one. Why, do you want to do it in the backseat?" I wiggled my eyebrows at her."Hell yea, but I'd also like to get a ride to go get my Jeep. It's been down at the clinic for a week now. They told me it would be safe but I'm getting a little stir crazy stuck here in the house." She replied.I looked out the window. "I can ride down and bring it back, it's only about four or five miles." I said."Ride?" She asked."I have a bike, I can put it in the back and haul it back if you don't mind.""Not at all." She smiled.I did the dishes and cleaned up after lunch, and Summer kicked back on the sofa folding a load of laundry I'd done earlier. I took a look at the grass, yea the lawn could wait a couple more days. "What else needs to be done?" I asked from the kitchen. I got no answer. I walked into the living room and she was bobbing her head as I walked around the edge of the couch I noticed she'd put in earbuds and was listening to her mp3 player. She was lip syncing some unknown song. She looked up at me and grinned, pulling one of the buds loose."I couldn't live without my music." She threw a towel at me to fold."Listening to anything good?" She mentioned a band I'd never heard of, and moved the folded stuff from beside her and patted the seat beside her. I sat and she handed me the ear bud."Check it out, you might like it." I put it in my ear and listened for a song or two, folding another towel. A hard rock song started and she turned it up a bit and started singing along. She got to the chorus and really joined in full blast. The lyrics were pretty explicit. I was thinking you wouldn't hear music like that on the radio around here. There was a pause, then a soft intro began. The ballad was soft and low, and Summer stopped and closed her eyes, her lips barely moving with the lyrics. When I noticed I stopped and listened intently to the lyrics, it was about intense, heart-felt, you are my world, kind of love. The kind of love that lasts longer than a lifetime. When it ended she reached down and stopped the playback. She looked straight out the window for a moment and turned to me, a shy sweet smile on her lips."Do you believe in love Pete?" She asked me. I stared at her in wide-eyed amazement for a minute, and began slowly nodding."I do now." I said, my voice barely above a whisper. I wanted to kiss her so badly, but something in her eyes made me hesitate. There was sadness there, and they welled up as if she were doing her best to hold back tears. A wash of emotion swept over me like a storm driven wave, and I leaned forward lifted her chin and kissed her softly. Our lips brushed, our tongues sought out one another, delicately probing. Something wet touched my cheek making me break the kiss long before I wanted to. I pulled back and a tear streamed down Summer's cheek. I reached for one of the towels and daubed it. I took a deep breath and was about to ask why she was crying when a curt little head shake waved off the question."Please don't ask, not yet anyway." She said, her voice thick with emotion. "I'm sorry." She said wiping the remaining tear with the heel of her hand."You don't have anything to be sorry about." I replied softly.She inhaled deeply and let it out slowly. She turned to me with a smile on her mouth but sadness in her eyes."I saw there's a free concert in the park tonight. Want to go? A rock blues cover band is playing. Sounds like they might be good."I knew they were good, my friends brother was in the band, and I'd heard them before. I smiled and nodded. "Sounds like fun, and they are good, I've heard them before.""I should ride down and get the Jeep. There's no way you're walking that far." I said sternly."Yes dear." Summer rolled her eyes at me. She giggled, and got up hobbling off to the bedroom and came back with a set of keys handing them to me."It's black, and I'm guessing the only one with West Virginia plates. It's at the walk-in clinic on Route 12."I nodded. "I know exactly where you mean. I'll go get it. You relax, take a nap if you want. I should be back in an hour or so." I smiled. I kissed her again, the underlying want in our embrace was nearly too much. She placed her hand on my chest, with the barest hint of pressure. She was right, if I kept it up we weren't going anywhere. I reluctantly stepped back, picked up the folded towels and put them away. I walked back out and she had laid down on the couch with her foot up on a pillow. I smiled that she'd taken my suggestion."Can I get you anything before I go?" I said softly leaning over the arm of the couch. She just smiled and gave her head a little shake. She reached up pulling me down closer for a quick upside-down kiss. I headed for the kitchen door, pausing as I closed it quietly, looking back into the house. I turned and started walking home.I walked, lost in thought. This week had been a week of firsts for me. I grinned at the thought of the first day when I lost my virginity to an amazing woman. The aggravation of the following days of not knowing exactly what was happening. If I had just opened my eyes I would have noticed she was waiting for me. Then today when she all but pushed me into making love to her again. I wondered why, well why me anyway. I knew so little about her. What was going on here. We'd known each other about a week, what was that question about believing in love. I could easily fall in love with her, I had to admit. Was I doing just that? So many questions came to mind as I walked up my driveway, I grabbed my bike out of the garage and hopped on. I made my way down to the coast road and started pedaling in earnest up the first rise. The traffic drifted past me as I sought answers to my questions. I pedaled harder nearly coasting up the next rise. Why was I over analyzing this? I was living out a fantasy any red-blooded male would die for. A beautiful, sexy woman wanted to have sex with me, repeatedly. Isn't that enough for me? I laughed out loud at that thought because I realized, it isn't.I rolled down the long slope of the hill seeing the clinic up ahead. I pulled into the parking lot and rode around looking for the Jeep and found it near the side of the building. I checked the plate and got off my bike, took out the keys and opened up the driver's side door. The heat billowed out of it from being parked in the sun so long. The smell of a roasted sweet smelling air freshener poured out and nearly gagged me. I walked to the back and looked at how I was going to get my bike in there and noticed there was a folding bike rack on the spare tire mount. I figured it out in a few minutes an

 In this episode of Women on Wealth, Julina Ogilvie sits down with Neil Anand, owner of ComForCare Home Care in Fairfield, CT, to discuss DementiaWise—a program designed to enhance the quality of life for individuals living with dementia. Together, they explore the importance of care coordination, caregiver education, and respite services, and share practical advice for families navigating the challenges of dementia care. Show Highlights:What is DementiaWise? (2:44)Medicare's new initiative (6:01)Care coordination and management (9:42)Caregiver education and support (11:00)A personalized care plan (12:02)Respite care (14:03)Biggest misconceptions families have (15:05)It's impact on families and patients (16:06)Eligibility (18:19)Advice for a loved one showing signs of memory decline (19:48)Employer benefits (23:44)Connect with Julina Ogilvie:WebsiteYouTubeLinkedInEmail- jogilvie@principlewealthpartners.comThe information provided is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice and it should not be relied on as such. The statements and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the author. PWP cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any statements or data. For current PWP information, please visit the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov by searching with PWP's CRD #290180

This week, a Fairfield county teenage driver is accused of speeding on I-95 causing a multi-vehicle crash. According to state police, the 15-year-old driver was clocked going 130 mph! We got reaction from State Police Sgt. Luke Davis.  IMAGE CREDIT:  iStock / Getty Images Plus

The Southeastern 16 crew of Graham Doty, Jay Greeson and Chris Lee break down the Conway Regional. Topics include: Coastal Carolina was the country's best team from outside the Power 4, with MLB catching prospect Caden Bodine and Blake Barthol (12 HR, 12 SB) part of an offense that stole 99 bases and hit 56 home runs. The Chanticleers can pitch with anyone thanks to a starting trio of Jacob Morrison, Cameron Flukey and Riley Eikhoff, a bullpen of Matthew Potok , Dominic Carbine and Ryan Lunch and confidence that comes from a 48-11 record. Florida was as hot as any team in the country over the last six weeks. The Gators are led by a pair of premium MLB pitching prospects in Liam Peterson and Aidan King and a host of other talented arms like Jake Clemente, Pierce Coppola and Luke McNeillie. The Gators survived serious injures to a number of star players thanks to standout offensive performances from infielder Bobby Boser (16 HR) and Brody Donay (17), star freshman first baseman Brendan Lawson (nine). No one prepares his team better for the postseason than coach Kevin O'Sulllivan; can the Gators work some postseason magic again? Coach Cliff Godwin's East Carolina squad needed to win the American Athletic tournament to get here. The Pirates, a perennial mid-major powerhouse, are led by lefty slugger Dixon Williams (13 HR) and pin their pitching hopes on lefty Ethan Norby. Fourth-seeded Fairfield got here by winning the Metro Atlantic Athletic conference tournament and is 39-17 entering the regional. Fairfield had 14-homer seasons from Luke Nomura and Matthew Bucciero to lead its offense. The Stags got great starting pitching from Ben Allison and Bowen Baker and will need more of it against a loaded field.

Send us a textFairfield Goalie Owen Hirsch: Confidence Is ContagiousIn this episode of the Lax Goalie Rat Podcast, Coach Damon sits down with Fairfield University goalie Owen Hirsch to talk all things between the pipes. Owen shares his inspiring journey from a young, pad-covered beginner to D1 starter, highlighting how he conquered his fear of the ball and developed elite confidence in the cage.The conversation dives deep into goalie mindset, techniques like the "Philly Flow" system, the importance of routines, and why confidence is contagious—especially in the goalie position. Owen also reflects on his team's incredible 9–0 start, lessons learned from setbacks, and how leadership and mental toughness are shaping his approach going into his fifth year.Whether you're a youth goalie, a coach, or a proud goalie parent, this episode is packed with relatable insights and actionable tips to level up your game. And yes—we even talk about how to eat the elephant… one piece at a time.Sponsored by:Thigh Pro Protection: Protect your legs without sacrificing mobility – thighpro.com/lgrLax Goalie Rat Academy: Join today at laxgoalierat.com/campSupport the show

Reverend Sara Smith, Esq. has a history deeply rooted in service and hard work. Growing up in Kentucky and helping with her 1000 acre family farm, she isn't afraid of getting her hands dirty. After passing the bar and working as a labor rights litigation attorney, she had a calling to attend Divinity school, which changed the trajectory of her career and life. Now, with 30 years of experience as an ordained clergywoman in the United Church of Christ, she continues to make an impact and isn't slowing down anytime soon. As Senior Minister of United Congregational Church of Bridgeport located in CT, she is also CEO/President and Founder of the nonprofit nOURish BRIDGEPORT, Inc. which is a mission of the church working to provide resources and essential programs to those who need it most. nOURish is focused on community and provides critical resources including a weekly food pantry that serves over 500 families (2500 individuals) each week, ESL classes serving over 100 each week, a team of dedicated cooks that prepare 300 hot meals to the unhoused every week. In addition to all that, she is the creative mastermind behind the first non-profit indoor hydroponic farm in the state. In three years, they have produced over 17 TONS of produce that's been distributed to their food insecure neighbors and residents of Bridgeport. Additionally, she is the Protestant Chaplain and Adjunct Instructor at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield. Reverend Sara is a proud advocate for the LGBTQ community and facilitates an Open and Affirming congregation in alignment with the mission of the United Church of Christ. She is truly an energizer bunny with a purpose of changing lives, creating opportunities and opening hearts.

15 year old Megan Nicholas disappeared from her Fairfield, Illinois home in July 2014. She had been apart of a love triangle before her disappearance. It would be years before investigators found out what happened to Megan. Instagram: @caffeinatedcrimespodTwitter: @caffcrimespodEmail: caffeinatedcrimespod@gmail.comFacebook: Caffeinated CrimesSupport the show

Send us a textFairfield and Central are heading to the NCAA Baseball Tournament and both head coaches join the pod to preview their teams. Hear from Fairfield's Bill Currier about the exciting extra inning win that sealed the Stags' trip to the tournament, how they're prepping for the Conway, SC Regional, and more. CCSU Head Coach Charlie Hickey talks about his team's 9th NEC Title, what stands out about his team's offense (3rd highest batting average in the country), getting his 800th career win, and more. 

Startts and Shayna Humanitarian are joining forces to present a conference with Assyrian community leaders and health workers to discuss ways to expand the work with the community to deal with youth suicide. The conference will be held on Sunday, 31 May at Fairfield. Mr Oliver Slewa from Shayna Humanitarian says the invitation has been sent to more than 20 Assyrian organisations.

Minister Chris Bowen talks to SBS Assyrian about winning the election for the seat of McMahon, reappointment for the ministerial portfolio of Energy and Climate Change and his advocacy and respect for the Assyrian community in Australia. He says that he grew up among Assyrians in Fairfield and Smithfield and understands their plight very well and will keep supporting them. The interview is conducted in English.

Truth behind the Crime: Wendy Savino Special guest Frank and Maria DeGennaroWendy Savino is a remarkable woman whose life encompasses both a harrowing encounter with a notorious serial killer and a rich history in the performing arts. ⸻

An Iowa transplant has channeled what he calls laziness into forming two successful companies, publishing a memoir and now turning that into a staged musical.

I always say that this Thursday to Sunday run of the conference tournaments and the Selection Show is the best four-day stretch of every lacrosse season. Teams have spent the last year working toward this, only the best teams are playing, every game is meaningful and the familiarity of playing conference rivals a second time begs for potential drama. May Madness is finally here. Let's revel in it. As always, D-Fly & Dixie are here to get you pumped up for all the games, and we'll preview the semifinal round in every single conference. We'll also talk about a few preseason Top 20 teams that didn't come close to matching the high expectations, and what comes next for those programs. In addition, we'll talk about the NCAA's all-time goal scorer, CJ Kirst, hotel front desks, the Ann Arbor lunch scene, predetermined sites hosting without the home team and much, much more. This year, Inside Lacrosse is proud to partner with the NCAA to offer you, our loyal listeners, $5 off all single-day ticket options (men and women) by using the code ILPOD at checkout. So head to NCAA.com/LaxTickets and enter ILPOD at checkout to purchase your tickets. You know you're going to go to Championship Weekend, so why not get $5 off and help us show the NCAA how awesome our listeners are by purchasing your tickets today. PREVIEWS We're down to the conference semifinals. Some of the larger leagues played their quarterfinals last weekend or earlier this week. Now it's down to each league's four best squads.  As we normally do, we'll go chronologically* through the schedule, conference by conference. (*Note: The Big Ten has moved up its start times on Thursday to noon and 2:30 p.m. due to potential inclement weather in the evening.) THURSDAY, May 1 Conference Tournament Games Atlantic 10 Semifinals at Saint Joseph's, Philadelphia, Penn. No. 1 Richmond (11-3, 5-0 A-10) vs. No. 4 UMass (9-5, 2-3), 11 a.m., ESPN+ No. 2 High Point (6-8, 3-2) vs. No. 3 Saint Joseph's (9-5, 2-3) 2 p.m., ESPN+? Northeast Conference Semifinals at LeMoyne, Syracuse, N.Y. No. 2 Robert Morris (9-5, 6-1 NEC) vs. No. 3 LIU (9-4, 4-3), noon, NEC Front Row & ESPN+ No. 1 LeMoyne (9-5, 6-1 NEC) vs. No. 4 Detroit Mercy (5-6, 4-3), 4 p.m., NEC Front Row & ESPN+ Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) Semifinals at Sacred Heart, Fairfield, Conn. No. 1 Sacred Heart (11-2, 7-1) vs. No. 6 Quinnipiac (3-11, 2-6 MAAC), 3 p.m., ESPN+ No. 2 Siena (9-4, 7-1) vs. No. 4 Marist (8-7, 5-3), 7 p.m., ESPN+ America East Semifinals at Bryant, Smithfield, R.I. No. 1 Bryant (9-4, 5-1 AE) vs. No. 4 Binghamton (5-8, 3-3), 4 p.m., ESPN+ No. 2 UMBC (7-4, 5-1) vs. No. 3 UAlbany (7-8, 4-2), 7 p.m., ESPN+ Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) Semifinals at Towson University, Towson, Md. No. 1 Towson (0-5, 7-0 CAA) vs. No. 4 Hofstra (8-6, 4-3), 4 p.m., Lacrosse TV No. 2 Fairfield (12-2, 5-2) vs. No. 3 Drexel (7-7, 4-3), 7 p.m., Lacrosse TV Big Ten Semifinals at Michigan, Ann Arbor, Mich. No. 1 Ohio State (12-2, 4-1 B1G) vs. No. 5 Rutgers (7-8, 2-3), noon, BTN No. 2 Maryland (10-2, 3-2) vs. No. 3 Penn State (10-3, 3-2), 2:30 p.m., BTN Big East Semifinals at Denver University, Denver, Colo. No. 1 Georgetown (9-4, 4-1 BE) vs. No. 4 Marquette (7-6, 2-3), 6 p.m., CBS Sports Network No. 2 Villanova (7-6, 4-1) vs. No. 3 Providence (7-7, 3-2), 9 p.m., CBS Sports Network FRIDAY, May 2 Conference Tournament Games Atlantic Sun (ASUN) Semifinals at Jacksonville University, Jacksonville, Fla. No. 1 Utah (5-8, 4-1 ASUN) vs. No. 4 Bellarmine (8-8, 2-3), 1 p.m., ESPN+ No. 2 Jacksonville (9-4, 4-1) vs. No. 3 Air Force (6-7, 4-1), 4 p.m., ESPN+ Patriot League Semifinals at United States Military Academy, West Point, N.Y. No. 1 Army West Point (12-1, 7-1 PL) vs. No. 5 Colgate (8-7, 4-4), 4 p.m., CBS Sports Network No. 2 Boston University (10-4, 6-2) vs. No. 3 Lafayette (9-5, 5-3), 7 p.m., CBS Sports Network Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Semifinals at American Legion Mem. Stadium, Charlotte, N.C. No. 1 Notre Dame (8-3, 3-1 ACC) vs. No. 4 Syracuse (9-5, 2-2), 5 p.m., ACC Network No. 2 North Carolina (10-3, 3-1) vs. No. 3 Duke (11-4, 2-2), 8 p.m., ACC Network Ivy League Semifinals at Cornell, Ithaca, N.Y. No. 1 Cornell (12-1, 6-0 Ivy) vs. No. 4 Yale (5-7, 3-3), 4 p.m., ESPNU No. 2 Princeton (11-2, 5-1) vs. No. 3 Harvard (10-3, 4-2), 6:30 p.m., ESPNU Give and Go In this week's hole-in-one-inspired Give & Go, the guys discuss rare feats and significant single accomplishments across sports. A reminder that the D-Fly and Dixie Podcast is brought to you by Simplicity Group. Simplicity Group is a leading financial products distribution firm that specializes in providing best-in-class insurance, investment and business development solutions. To learn more visit: SimplicityGroup.com. Tell a friend about this podcast and share the love. It's free. We always love to hear from you, so feel free to email us at DFlyandDixie@gmail.com, or find us on twitter and Instagram at @DFlyandDixie. Thanks for listening, and as always, Enjoy The Games!

Jasper Floyd will tell you that prayers are answered.Floyd's prayers to play at a "Power Four" conference school were answered this month when he accepted a scholarship offer from West Virginia.  The Florida native will join his North Texas coach Ross Hodge and teammate Brenen Lorient in Morgantown. Floyd's path to Morgantown is a story of persistence and determination.  He made two stops at the junior college level before playing at Fairfield and North Texas. In this episode, Floyd shares the story of his journey and goals as a Mountaineer. Listener questions and comments complete the episode. 

In November 2021, beloved Fairfield, Iowa, Spanish teacher Nohema Graber vanished during her routine walk in Chautauqua Park. Her body was found the next day, hidden under a tarp with signs of trauma. As investigators dug deeper, unsettling ties to students and school officials emerged, leaving the town to question who was responsible—and why.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sword-and-scale--5895676/support.

After weeks of wandering in the wilderness, Nick Ossello is back to join IL's Terry Foy for this week's Tailgate — but where is Larken Kemp?! No matter, kick it old school as Terry and Nick break down Ohio State's epic comeback win vs. Michigan, Maryland's fourth quarter separation vs. Hopkins, Notre Dame finding its rhythm in the second half at North Carolina, Duke regrouping vs. Syracuse, Towson staking its CAA claim vs. Fairfield and Cornell claiming the Ivy League hosting duties. This year, Inside Lacrosse is proud to partner with the NCAA to offer you, our loyal listeners, $5 off all single-day ticket options (men and women) by using the code ILPOD at checkout. So head to NCAA.com/LaxTickets and enter ILPOD at checkout to purchase your tickets. You know you're going to go to Championship Weekend, so why not get $5 off and help us show the NCAA how awesome our listeners are by purchasing your tickets today.