Everything Lidia Lifestyle Blog

The High-Fashion Bustier Is The Biggest Breakout Trend Of Spring/Summer 2022!

noreply@blogger.com (Everything Lidia) — Mon, 20 Jun 2022 16:48:00 +0000

7 BUSTIER TOP OUTFIT IDEAS

IF THERE'S ONE FASHION TREND THAT HAS EMERGED VERY PROMINENTLY FROM THE SPRING/SUMMER 22' FASHION SEASON, IT'S THAT THIS IS THE YEAR FOR BRINGING SEXY BACK INTO OUR WARDROBES. THINK LESS FASHION, MORE FLESH – WHETHER THAT'S EXPOSED ABS, DARING CUT-OUT DETAILS, A TEENY-TINY SKIRT TO SHOW OFF THE LEGS, OR ALL OF THE ABOVE. AND THERE’S A QUINTESSENTIAL PIECE THAT STANDS OUT, A BUSTIER...LOTS OF BUSTIERS!

A bustier top, often used synonymously with the word corset, makes your chest look more “uplifted” and tends to push the breasts up and together to create cleavage while a corset usually create a more defined waistline. An easy way to remember the difference between the two is a corset “cinches” while a bustier “boosts”.

Although the bustier top has been around for quite some time, you might be looking into finally copping the beloved fashion piece or are looking for new ideas on how to style it.

Below are 7 Bustier Top Outfit Ideas. It’s time to start getting in on the bustier trend.

BUSTIER TOP OUTFIT IDEA NO. 1: MATCHING SETS

If you’re looking to go comfy, pair your corset with a matching PJ set. Accessorizing is key, so you can elevate the look with heels or go even more casual with a pair of sneakers.

BUSTIER TOP OUTFIT IDEA NO. 2: BAGGY JEANS

The bustier top is also a great stand-alone piece, so don’t be afraid to show it off! You can display your bustier with loose, baggy jeans for the ultimate Y2K aesthetic and complete your look with black chunky sneakers, a keyhole belt, and tiny sunglasses.

BUSTIER TOP OUTFIT IDEA NO. 3: PRINTED BOTTOMS

Experimenting with prints easily adds a fun twist to your bustier top. Wear a bright colored or glossy bustier top with low-waisted camo cargo pants, and elevate your look with strappy heels.

BUSTIER TOP OUTFIT IDEA NO. 4: FAUX LEATHER PANTS

Leather pants are also fashion’s biggest “must-have” right now. Channel your inner ‘90s socialite by pairing your corset top with leather pants. Layer a brown satin bustier over a black button-down top and complete your look with patent vegan leather pants, pointed heels, and tiny sunglasses.

BUSTIER TOP OUTFIT IDEA NO. 5: SKIRTS

The Y2K takeover is upon us, so why not wear your bustier to create the ultimate strapless silhouette? Pair your bustier with a micro-mini or an elaborate tulle skirt, and finish off your look with platform lace-up heels.

BUSTIER TOP OUTFIT IDEA NO. 6: STATEMENT JACKETS

A statement jacket over a bustier top can take your outfit to a whole new level. Combine a vintage bustier with a floor length jacket, baggy pants, pointed heels, and gold jewelry for a Renaissance inspired look or mix a black Matrix-style faux leather coat, distressed jeans, knee-high chunky boots, and a statement zebra-printed bag for a Goth leaning style.

BUSTIER TOP OUTFIT IDEA NO. 7: THE LAYERED LOOK

Layering your look never gets old and it works just as well with a bustier top, too. You can contrast the bustiered silhouette by opting for other different fitted pieces. For instance, show off your black bustier with a cropped sheer top, short moto jacket and a pair of baggy pants to show off your accentuated waist. Another take on the layered look is to show off your bustier with a stylishly slouchy look by pairing a lacey beaded bustier with a draped white blouse and loose-fitted pants.

Check out these fashionable bustiers at the SCULPTURA® Fashions online boutique.

https://sculpturafashions.com/search?q=bustier

Lidia Szczepanowski, World Top Model Ms. 2022, named P.O.W.E.R. Woman of the Month

noreply@blogger.com (Everything Lidia) — Thu, 10 Mar 2022 19:14:00 +0000

Lidia Szczepanowski, World Top Model Ms. 2022

P.O.W.E.R. Woman of the Month

PRESS RELEASE

Dix Hills, NY, March 08, 2022 --(PR.com)-- Lidia Szczepanowski of Dix Hills, New York, selected as World Top Model Ms. 2022 in February, has been recognized as a Woman of the Month for March 2022 by P.O.W.E.R. (Professional Organization of Women of Excellence Recognized) for her outstanding achievements and contributions in the fields of law, business, journalism and beauty. Each month, P.O.W.E.R. features women to represent their professions and industries due to their expertise and success in their chosen specialty.

About Lidia Szczepanowski
Attorney, entrepreneur, women’s advocate, speaker, and beauty queen Lidia Szczepanowski began her journey as the child of working class Polish immigrants. Overcoming many personal and economic hardships, she refused to accept adversity as an excuse to settle for second best. Today she’s living a remarkable life filled with countless personal and professional accomplishments and is dedicated to helping others. Lidia exemplifies the real-life embodiment of the words “success, independence, entrepreneurship and glamour.” She has acquired a plethora of knowledge over the years in her roles as a litigation attorney, business strategist, entrepreneur, media producer and host, keynote speaker, black belt in karate, and international beauty queen. Most importantly, she is passionate about “giving back” through proactive “hands-on” participation in philanthropy and philanthropic activities.

Philanthropy and playing an active role in the improvement of the human condition have long been Lidia’s most consuming motivations. In 2007, she founded the National Organization for Women’s Safety Awareness (NOWSA), a not-for-profit that helps raise awareness about the frequency of sexual assault and other forms of violence and harassment against women and teens in our society and initiates calls to action that help stop it. The charity focuses on education and advocating for social change through educational outreach programs, awareness initiatives and events. www.TheNOWSA.org.

Lidia’s 30 plus years of legal expertise has a well-deserved reputation of excellence, and she provides smart, high-quality, and sensible legal and business solutions to new businesses, innovators, and entrepreneurs. www.AskLidiaTheLawyer.com. Lidia has appeared in numerous media outlets as a legal and personal safety expert and entrepreneurial consultant and has been a keynote speaker for educational institutions and other organizations. In addition to her winning record as a lawyer, black belt, women’s lifestyle and personal safety expert, and entrepreneur, Lidia has also managed to incorporate some glamour into her life. She holds the titles of Mrs. New York America 2006, Mrs. New York International 2009, Mrs. Corporate America 2013, Ms. World Elite 2017, and this February she won the coveted title of World Top Model Ms. 2022 at the World Top Model Competition presented by Beauty It’s Everywhere LLC.

When asked why she vied for the title of World Top Model™, Lidia said, “In the spirit of a speech made by Theodore Roosevelt in 1910, I want to be the woman ‘in the arena.’ I purposely choose to participate in situations that require courage, skill, confidence, or tenacity, as opposed to sitting on the sidelines and watching. This brings me joy. I want to appreciate every moment of my life, be grateful for all the people I meet along the way, and embrace as many experiences and opportunities that are presented to me, especially those that address social issues and ideologies I feel strongly about like women’s equality, safety, and empowerment.”

Recently, Lidia has also won the prestigious “FABcon Top 100 FAB (fashion, apparel, beauty) Leaders Award,” she was selected twice by the Long Island Business News as one of “Long Island’s Top 50 Most Influential Women in Business,” she was presented the “Woman of Distinction” Award from the New York State Assembly, the “Best Corporate Communicator” Award by the Fair Media Council and she was selected as “Women of the Year 2021” by Model Citizens Magazine. She also volunteers her time as legal counsel for several charities. She is currently the Director of Marketing for the New York Boutique Lawyers Networking Group (NYBLNG), and she sits on the Advisory Board of The Future Connoisseurs.

Lidia is also the owner of Everything Lidia, Inc., a multi-platform luxe lifestyle enterprise that is devoted to providing practical and thought-provoking information, insights, and ideas through seminars, including “Stylish Safety” awareness programs, speaking engagements, social and other media offerings and products which encourage women to live even more successful, fulfilling, confident, safe, and glamorous lives. Everything Lidia, Inc. offerings also include the award-winning and patented SCULPTURA® (Sculpt-It-Your-Way) Shapewear clothing line with removable curve enhancing accessories which concept is a physical manifestation of the decades of unique experiences and useful information Lidia picked up along the way. www.SculpturaFashions.com

Using her growing celebrity status, extensive legal background, vast business and leadership skills, practical marketing, management and public relations knowledge, Lidia strives to make a difference in people’s lives. It is her mission to motivate others to realize their true self-worth and reach their maximum achievement potential while enjoying the ride and attaining genuine happiness.

For more information about Lidia, contact info@EverythingLidia.com or visit www.EverythingLidia.com.

About P.O.W.E.R. Magazine (Professional Organization of Women of Excellence Recognized) and powerwoe.com
P.O.W.E.R. - Professional Organization of Women of Excellence Recognized is an online community. P.O.W.E.R. Magazine is a digital and exclusive print magazine featuring celebrities and everyday hardworking professional women. Our mission is to provide a powerful network of empowering women who will mentor and inspire each other to be the best they can be. Through our valuable services, our members can network, collaborate with like-minded professionals, gain recognition and obtain knowledge from those who have already achieved success.

Contact

P.O.W.E.R. (Professional Organization of Women of Excellence Recognized)
Geri Shumer
516-365-3222
www.powerwoe.com
Ellen Gold

Contact

Analysis and Legal Standard to Support Claim of Incitement of Violence & Insurrection

noreply@blogger.com (Everything Lidia) — Wed, 13 Jan 2021 22:55:00 +0000

Did statements by President Trump calling on his supporters to march to the Capitol violate federal laws against incitement to violence, rioting, or advocating overthrow of the government?

Whether this question is answered in the affirmative or negative, the actions that occurred inside the Capitol building were egregious and completely inconsistent with the rule of law. As was stated by General Mark Miley and the entire Joint Chiefs of Staff, “the rights of freedom of speech and assembly do not give anyone the right to resort to violence, sedition, and insurrection." The participants must be held accountable and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

Below is a basic, general analysis of the law as it pertains to inciting a riot [insurrection]. It is not intended to support any position. This topic is complicated and there are many issues that could affect the outcome. These issues are beyond the scope of this analysis.

What were the statements made by President Trump during his speech and rally on January 6, 2021 that were alleged to gave rise to the violation of law?

The full transcript of President Trump’s speech is available online. https://www.rev.com/blog/transcripts/donald-trump-speech-save-america-rally-transcript-january-6

Some examples of his statements include that the “election victory stolen by emboldened radical left Democrats, which is what they’re doing and stolen by the fake news media.” He added, “That’s what they’ve done and what they’re doing. We will never give up. We will never concede, it doesn’t happen. You don’t concede when there’s theft involved.”

President Trump also criticized the news media several times stating “our media is not free. It’s not fair,” he said. “It suppresses thought. It suppresses speech, and it’s become the enemy of the people. It’s become the enemy of the people. It’s the biggest problem we have in this country. No third world countries would even attempt to do what we caught them doing and you’ll hear about that in just a few minutes.” Later, President Trump added, “No, we have a corrupt media. They’ve gone silent. They’ve gone dead.”

In his speech, President Trump also included calls to action geared towards his supporters. At one point, he said, “We’re going to have to fight much harder and Mike Pence is going to have to come through for us. If he doesn’t, that will be a sad day for our country because you’re sworn to uphold our constitution. Now it is up to Congress to confront this egregious assault on our democracy. After this, we’re going to walk down and I’ll be there with you. We’re going to walk down. We’re going to walk down any one you want, but I think right here. We’re going walk down to the Capitol, and we’re going to cheer on our brave senators, and congressmen and women. We’re probably not going to be cheering so much for some of them because you’ll never take back our country with weakness. You have to show strength, and you have to be strong.”

At the end of his speech, President Trump told those at the rally, “[W]e’re going to, we’re going to walk down Pennsylvania Avenue, I love Pennsylvania Avenue, and we’re going to the Capitol and we’re going to try and give” before trailing off and stating, “The Democrats are hopeless.” President Trump repeated, “So let’s walk down Pennsylvania Avenue. I want to thank you all.”

The chaos in the U.S. Capitol unfolded after President Trump spent weeks alleging fraud in the Nov. 3 election, culminating in a call to march to the building.

Does the First Amendment protect Trump on Incitement to Riot [Insurrection} allegations?”

Most people will agree the Trump’s speech was imprudent, rash, offensive, and perhaps even repugnant. But did his comments constitute “incitement to imminent lawless action”?

In addition to his rally speech as referenced above, Trump has made many other statements and taken actions, prior to and post-riot, that could be considered when determining whether he violated incitement of riot statutes. The issue of whether these statements and actions can or will be considered and to what extent, is a relevant and possibly a pivotal one, but it is beyond the scope of this analysis.

Moreover, some scholars believe that the legal standard explained below does not apply to an impeachment trial of a President who is charged with high crimes and misdemeanors under the Constitution. This issue is likewise beyond the scope of the analysis made herein.

The law regarding “Incitement to Riot"

In Brandenburg v. Ohio, 395 US 444 (1969), the US Supreme Court established the “incitement test,” which includes two steps for speech to fall under this category of unprotected speech.

First, the speech needs to be “directed to inciting or producing imminent lawless action.”

Second, the speech must be “likely to incite or produce such action.”

The primary holding of Brandenburg v. Ohio, 395 US 444 (1969) was that speech that supports law-breaking or violence in general is protected by the First Amendment unless it directly encourages people to take an unlawful action immediately.

In Brandenburg, a Ku Klux Klan leader in Ohio, Clarence Brandenburg, asked a Cincinnati reporter to cover a KKK rally in Hamilton County for his television station. The resulting footage captured people burning a cross and making speeches while clad in the usual KKK attire of hooded robes. The speeches mentioned taking revenge on African-Americans as well as Jews, potentially by marching on Washington on the Fourth of July. They also criticized the President, the Congress, and the Supreme Court for allegedly colluding with non-whites against whites. Brandenburg’s speech was as follows:

"This is an organizers' meeting. We have had quite a few members here today which are—we have hundreds, hundreds of members throughout the State of Ohio. I can quote from a newspaper clipping from the Columbus, Ohio Dispatch, five weeks ago Sunday morning. The Klan has more members in the State of Ohio than does any other organization. We're not a revengent organization, but if our President, our Congress, our Supreme Court, continues to suppress the white, Caucasian race, it's possible that there might have to be some revengeance taken.

"We are marching on Congress July the Fourth, four hundred thousand strong. From there we are dividing into two groups, one group to march on St. Augustine, Florida, the other group to march into Mississippi. Thank you."

Once this footage became public, Ohio authorities charged Brandenburg with advocating violence under a criminal syndicalism statute. Brandenburg was convicted and sentenced to one to 10 years in prison, as well as a fine. His conviction was affirmed by a state appellate court.

On appeal, the Supreme Court reversed the lower courts stating, “later decisions have fashioned the principle that the constitutional guarantees of free speech and free press do not permit a State to forbid or proscribe advocacy of the use of force or of law violation except where such advocacy is directed to inciting or producing imminent lawless action and is likely to incite or produce such action. As was stated in Noto v. United States, 367 U. S. 290, 297-298 (1961), "the mere abstract teaching . . . of the moral propriety or even moral necessity for a resort to force and violence, is not the same as preparing a group for violent action and steeling it to such action." See also Herndon v. Lowry, 301 U. S. 242, 259-261 (1937); Bond v. Floyd, 385 U. S. 116, 134 (1966).

Moving beyond the clear and present danger test articulated by Justice Holmes in Schenck v. U.S. (1919), the opinion proposed an imminent lawless action test for political speech that seems to advocate overthrowing the government. It ruled that the government cannot forbid this type of speech unless it is both directed to inciting such action and is likely to actually incite it. By contrast, simply advocating a viewpoint without encouraging people to act on it, or encouraging people to act in a way that they could not be expected to act, would be protected by the First Amendment.

For speech to constitute incitement, it must advocate for illegal action immediately to take place. Hess v. Indiana, 414 US 105 (1973).

Hess v. Indiana, 414 U.S. 105 (1973) was a United States Supreme Court case involving the First Amendment that reaffirmed and clarified the imminent lawless action test first articulated in Brandenburg v. Ohio. The case involved an antiwar protest on the campus of Indiana University Bloomington. Between 100 and 150 protesters were in the streets. The sheriff and his deputies then proceeded to clear the streets of the protestors. As the sheriff was passing Gregory Hess, one of the members of the crowd, Hess uttered, "We'll take the fu%king street later" or "We'll take the fu%king street again." Hess was convicted in Indiana state court of disorderly conduct. The Supreme Court reversed Hess's conviction because the statement, at worst, "amounted to nothing more than advocacy of illegal action at some indefinite future time. This is not sufficient to permit the State to punish Hess' speech."

A more recent case that dealt with whether certain facts and circumstances gave rise to “inciting a riot” was Nwanguma v. Trump, 903 F.3d 604 (6th Cir. 2018). In this case, the US Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit held that then-Republican presidential candidate Trump did not “incite a riot” when he called for security to remove protestors at a March 2016 rally, which led to an altercation between the protesters and some of Trump’s supporters.” The Sixth Circuit held that the United States has “chosen to protect unrefined, disagreeable, and even hurtful speech to ensure that we do not stifle public debate.”

The court added that the case law derived from the Brandenburg test “makes clear . . . that, even if plaintiffs’ allegations could be deemed to make out a plausible claim for incitement to riot under Kentucky law, the First Amendment would not permit prosecution of the claim.. . . [The] speaker’s intent to encourage violence . . . and the tendency of his statement to result in violence . . . are not enough to forfeit First Amendment protection unless the words used specifically advocated the use of violence, whether explicitly or implicitly.”

Did President Trump advocate the use of violence? Were his words directed to cause imminent violence?

Legal scholars answer these questions differently. Reviewing the transcript, however, President Trump did not appear to ever explicitly call for violence during his rally and he never used a command like ‘go down there and attack them”. Are his words therefore protected? Some experts will argue that Trump’s words are protected speech and others will argue that they are not.

There is clearly a difference between heated political rhetoric and actually directing one’s followers to commit violence. Trump undeniably sent them off down the street with his words, but did he send them off to commit violence?

The First Amendment of the United States Constitution protects the right to freedom of religion and freedom of expression from government interference. It prohibits any laws that establish a national religion, impede the free exercise of religion, abridge the freedom of speech, infringe upon the freedom of the press, interfere with the right to peaceably assemble, or prohibit citizens from petitioning for a governmental redress of grievances.

The central commitment of the First Amendment, as summarized in the opinion of the Court in New York Times Co. v. Sullivan, 376 U. S. 254, 270 (1964), is that "debate on public issues should be uninhibited, robust, and wide-open." The Court in Bond v, Floyd, 385 U.S. 116 (1966), stated, “just as erroneous statements must be protected to give freedom of expression the breathing space it needs to survive, so statements criticizing public policy and the implementation of it must be similarly protected. The State argues that the New York Times principle should not be extended to statements by a legislator because the policy of encouraging free debate about governmental operations only applies to the citizen-critic of his government. We find no support for this distinction in the New York Times case or in any other decision of this Court. The interest of the public in hearing all sides of a public issue is hardly advanced by extending more protection to citizen-critics than to legislators. Legislators have an obligation to take positions on controversial political questions so that their constituents can be fully informed by them, and be better able to assess their qualifications for office; also so they may be represented in governmental debates by the person they have elected to represent them.”

Below are excerpts from New York Times v. Sullivan, 376 U.S. 254 (1964).

The general proposition that freedom of expression upon public questions is secured by the First Amendment has long been settled by our decisions. The constitutional safeguard, we have said, "was fashioned to assure unfettered interchange of ideas for the bringing about of political and social changes desired by the people." Roth v. United States, 354 U. S. 476, 484. "The maintenance of the opportunity for free political discussion to the end that government may be responsive to the will of the people and that changes may be obtained by lawful means, an opportunity essential to the security of the Republic, is a fundamental principle of our constitutional system." Stromberg v. California, 283 U. S. 359, 369. "[I]t is a prized American privilege to speak one's mind, although not always with perfect good taste, on all public institutions," Bridges v. California, 314 U. S. 252, 270, and this opportunity is to be afforded for "vigorous advocacy" no less than "abstract discussion." N. A. A. C. P. v. Button, 371 U. S. 415, 429. The First Amendment, said Judge Learned Hand, "presupposes that right conclusions are more likely to be gathered out of a multitude of tongues, than through any kind of authoritative selection. To many this is, and always will be, folly; but we have staked upon it our all." United States v. Associated Press, 52 F. Supp. 362, 372 (D. C. S. D. N. Y. 1943).

Mr. Justice Brandeis, in his concurring opinion in Whitney v. California, 274 U. S. 357, 375-376, gave the principle its classic formulation: "Those who won our independence believed . . . that public discussion is a political duty; and that this should be a fundamental principle of the American government. They recognized the risks to which all human institutions are subject. But they knew that order cannot be secured merely through fear of punishment for its infraction; that it is hazardous to discourage thought, hope and imagination; that fear breeds repression; that repression breeds hate; that hate menaces stable government; that the path of safety lies in the opportunity to discuss freely supposed grievances and proposed remedies; and that the fitting remedy for evil counsels is good ones. Believing in the power of reason as applied through public discussion, they eschewed silence coerced by law—the argument of force in its worst form. Recognizing the occasional tyrannies of governing majorities, they amended the Constitution so that free speech and assembly should be guaranteed."

There is a profound national commitment to the principle that debate on public issues should be uninhibited, robust, and wide-open, and that it may well include vehement, caustic, and sometimes unpleasantly sharp attacks on government and public officials. See Terminiello v. Chicago, 337 U. S. 1, 4; De Jonge v. Oregon, 299 U. S. 353, 365.

Authoritative interpretations of the First Amendment guarantees have consistently refused to recognize an exception for any test of truth—whether administered by judges, juries, or administrative officials—and especially one that puts the burden of proving truth on the speaker. Cf. Speiser v. Randall, 357 U. S. 513, 525-526. The constitutional protection does not turn upon "the truth, popularity, or social utility of the ideas and beliefs which are offered." N. A. A. C. P. v. Button, 371 U. S. 415, 445. As Madison said, "Some degree of abuse is inseparable from the proper use of every thing; and in no instance is this more true than in that of the press." In Cantwell v. Connecticut, 310 U. S. 296, 310, the Court declared:

"In the realm of religious faith, and in that of political belief, sharp differences arise. In both fields the tenets of one man may seem the rankest error to his neighbor. To persuade others to his own point of view, the pleader, as we know, at times, resorts to exaggeration, to vilification of men who have been, or are, prominent in church or state, and even to false statement. But the people of this nation have ordained in the light of history, that, in spite of the probability of excesses and abuses, these liberties are, in the long view, essential to enlightened opinion and right conduct on the part of the citizens of a democracy."

Objections to electoral vote certifications and allegations of election fraud are not unusual and raising these issues are not in and of themselves improper. Both these issues appear to have been at least a partial impetus to the protests and riot.

President Trump’s electoral vote certification, held in Congress on Jan. 6, 2017 with then Vice President Joe Biden presiding, was interrupted numerous times by members of Congress. Similar to what occurred this week, during the course of the electoral vote certification in 2017, House Democrats tried to object to electoral votes from multiples states. Objections to the votes needed to be in writing and signed by both a member of the House and a member of the Senate. Every House member who rose to object did so without a senator’s signature.

1.)Rep. Jim McGovern of Massachusetts rose to object to the certificate from Alabama. “The electors were not lawfully certified, especially given the confirmed and illegal activities engaged by the government of Russia,” McGovern said.

2.) Rep. Jamie Raskin of Maryland rose to object to 10 of Florida’s 29 electoral votes. “They violated Florida’s prohibition against dual office holders,” Raskin said.

3.) Washington’s Rep. Pramila Jayapal objected to Georgia’s vote certificate.

4.) Rep. Barbara Lee of California brought up voting machines and Russian hacking when she objected following the counting of Michigan’s votes. “People are horrified by the overwhelming evidence of Russian interference in our election,” Lee said.

5.) After New York’s tally was read, Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee of Texas stood up to object. “I object on the massive voter suppression that included –” Jackson Lee began.

6.) Arizona’s Rep. Raul Grijalva rose to object after North Carolina’s tally. He tried to object on violations of the Voting Rights Act, but Biden shut him down.

7.) Once he gave up, Jackson Lee tagged him out and tried to object to the votes herself. They cut off her microphone, too.

8.) Jackson Lee made another appearance minutes later after South Carolina’s certification.

9.) After Wisconsin’s votes had been read Jackson Lee once again tried to make an objection on the grounds of Russian interference in the election.

10.) Then entered California Rep. Maxine Waters. Taking a play from her own book – she objected to the certification of George W. Bush’s 2000 election – Waters admitted that she didn’t have a senator’s signature on her objection. “I wish to ask: Is there one United States senator who will join me in this letter of objection?” Waters asked.

11.) The states were counted, but three protestors started yelling from the visitors’ gallery of the chamber. At least one of them was reciting the Constitution as he was taken away by security.

The issue of alleged election fraud has been raised by both political parties. As late as October 2020, Hillary Clinton has continued to hold that the 2016 presidential election was not conducted legitimately, saying the details surrounding her loss are still unclear. “There was a widespread understanding that this election [in 2016] was not on the level.” Clinton said during an interview for the latest episode of The Atlantic’s politics podcast, The Ticket. “We still don’t know what really happened.” “There’s just a lot that I think will be revealed. History will discover.”

Only time will tell whether President Trump will be found to have incited a riot/insurrection. This analysis was written prior to criminal charges or articles of impeachment being filed and therefore the applicability of the law stated above is subject to change, modification or extension. Accordingly, Trump’s speech could possibly be defensible in court but not in the Senate.

SCULPTURA KIckstarter Campaign Successfully Funded!

noreply@blogger.com (Everything Lidia) — Thu, 01 Aug 2019 02:27:00 +0000

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

For more information contact: Lidia Szczepanowski, Creative Dir.

KICKSTARTER CAMPAIGN ANNOUNCED FOR SCULPTURA®:

World’s First Patented Figure Enhancing Miracle Dress

Everything Lidia, Inc., Introduces Sculptura Fashions, Classically Evolved Dresses That Can Help Any Woman Feel Her Most Empowered, Confident, and Comfortable Self

Commack, New York – July 8, 2019 – Everything Lidia, Inc., is pleased to announce the recent launch of a Kickstarter campaign that has allowed the public to meet Sculptura®: the world’s first patented figure enhancing miracle dress. Sculptura® is the only dress system that can fix figure issues whether someone is thin, heavy, short, tall, or anywhere in between. Sculptura® fashions use “Body Sculpting Technology and Tools™” that create a customized, perfect body silhouette instantly.

“I believe people are going to fall in love with our one-of-a-kind figure enhancing dresses,” says Lidia Szczepanowski, Inventor of Sculptura®. “The Kickstarter campaign, to raise $10,000, will help us manufacture our dresses and finalize our labeling and packaging components so Sculptura can arrive in homes across the world as soon as possible”.

Sculptura® dresses feature a built-in wireless support bra and secret pockets in the bust area that hold push up bra cups and in the rear for silicone booty inserts. The dresses also include a hidden support undergarment, a figure flattering mid-section, the highest quality 4-way stretch fabrics, and will be made in the USA. There is no need for push-up bras, body shapers, shapewear, girdles, Spanx, or any other figure enhancing garments because everything is already in the dress. Sculptura® fashions are super comfortable and they smooth and minimize, lift and support, and fill and sculpt the body, but the choice to enhance or minimize or customize with inserts is up to the consumer. The launch collection consists of five (5) styles, and additional styles and different color palettes are anticipated.

“I was looking for a high quality, stylish power dress that had a figure enhancing garment and support bra built right into it. It didn’t exist so I invented it! I think this little black dress will make anyone who wears it feel beautiful, sexy and confident. And it’s going to have an enormous impact in the fashion world!" says Szczepanowski.

Sculptura® is being produced by Everything Lidia, Inc., an award-winning enterprise that offers lifestyle products and services for the extraordinary woman who wants to live with great style, confidence, elegance and panache. The company also encourages women to realize their true self-worth, achieve their maximum potential and attain genuine happiness. The company is proud to introduce Sculptura® to consumers because this new clothing category will create incredibly flattering silhouettes that complement and pay tribute to a woman’s figure.

To learn more about Kickstarter and supporting Sculptura’s $10,000 campaign, please visit http://e.fnd.to/sculptura or http://www.SculpturaFashions.com.

# # #

Here She Is....Ms. World Elite 2017-18

noreply@blogger.com (Everything Lidia) — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 14:59:00 +0000

I'm elated to announce that on May 28th, 2017 I was crowned Ms. World Elite 2017-18!

Below is an article written by Janee Law from the Long Islander News and published on June 5, 2017.

Native Crowned ‘Ms. World Elite’

By Janee Law

jlaw@longislandergroup.com

As the sash was wrapped around her shoulder and hip and she was handed a bouquet of red roses, Lidia Szczepanowski’s grin quickly widened as she knelt down to be crowned Ms. World Elite 2017.
The Ms. World Pageant, held May 26-28 at in Everett, Washington, featured 21 contestants, including Szczepanowski, of Dix Hills, the daughter of Polish immigrants who was crowned Ms. Poland in March. Both Ms. World title and Ms. World Elite were crowned. Szczepanowski said the elite designation is awarded to the highest scoring contestant who is over 40 years old.
“It’s empowering for me because age is only a number,” Szczepanowski, 52, said. “It doesn’t matter how old you are and the judges saw that beauty is not about being the youngest it’s just who you are as a person. It’s the total package.”
Szczepanowski was elated when she heard her name called.
“I didn’t think I was going to win. There were so many beautiful, intelligent, well spoken, and experienced women,” she said. “The fact that I won the top prize in my category, I couldn’t be happier.”
The pageant consisted of an interview before six judges, an opening gown portion, a fitness wear, evening gown and onstage question and answer session.
Along with her crown, Szczepanowski earned a cruise to the Bahamas, luggage, jewelry and a couple of other gifts.
“I believe Ms. World Elite is this smart, stylish, stiletto clad woman who exemplifies success, independence and glamour,” Szczepanowski said. “What I’m going to do is incorporate the title into my current lifestyle, which I’m so proud of.”
Szczepanowski, a veteran of pageantry, has promoted a message of women empowerment through her career. But she said that earning the Ms. World Elite title marks an end to her pageantry days.
The Melville-based litigation attorney will continue both her professional and charity work, however. She’s also the founder of both Everything Lidia, a multi-platform lifestyle enterprise, and the National Organization for Women’s Safety Awareness, a nonprofit that helps prevent crime and violence against women of all ages.
Throughout her experience in pageantry, Szczepanowski said, she’s learned that being authentic and genuine is one of the most beautiful and attractive features that any person can carry.

She added, “Everyone has their own beautiful way about them and if more people were true to themselves I think we’d all be better from it.”

"The Everything Lidia Show" - Craniosacral Therapy with Guest Kathleen B...

noreply@blogger.com (Everything Lidia) — Tue, 07 Jul 2015 03:07:00 +0000

Why Do We Pray?

noreply@blogger.com (Everything Lidia) — Sun, 15 Feb 2015 17:17:00 +0000

The Power of Prayer...Click below to watch candid interviews with individuals from all walks of life on how they view prayer.

Lidia Szczepanowski, Attorney, Entrepreneur, National Speaker, TV Host, and Lifestyle and Personal Safety Expert featured at 1:33. http://www.aarp.org/magazine/

Analysis of the Grand Jury Proceeding and the Death of Eric Garner by Police Officer Daniel Pantaleo

noreply@blogger.com (Everything Lidia) — Tue, 23 Dec 2014 15:31:00 +0000

Below is a basic legal analysis of the circumstances surrounding the death of Eric Garner and the subsequent decision by a New York Grand Jury not to indict the police officer involved in the incident. This analysis was written utilizing information retrieved from various sources on the internet and it may be subject to correction.

Factual Background

On July 17, 2014, Eric Garner died in Staten Island, New York, after a police officer used a grappling hold around his neck for about 19 seconds. Some have described it as a chokehold, while others argue it was a submission hold or headlock and that no choking took place; the use of chokeholds is a violation of New York City Police Department (NYPD) policy but a submission hold is not.

When officers moved to arrest Garner on suspicion of selling "loosies" (single cigarettes) from packs without tax stamps, Garner pulled his arms away from officer Daniel Pantaleo and other officers, told the officers to leave him alone and he refused to be handcuffed. Pantaleo then put his arm around the much taller Garner's neck, (Garner was 6-foot-3 and weighed 350 pounds, and suffered from heart disease, severe asthma, diabetes, obesity, and sleep apnea) and pulled him backwards and down onto the ground. After Pantaleo removed his arm from Garner's neck, he pushed Garner's head into the ground while four officers moved to restrain Garner, who stated "I can't breathe" while lying face down on the sidewalk. After Garner lost consciousness, officers turned him onto his side to ease his breathing. Garner remained lying on the sidewalk for several minutes while the officers waited for an ambulance to arrive. Upon information and belief, the officers and EMTs did not perform CPR on Garner at the scene because they believed that Garner was breathing and that it would be improper to perform CPR on someone who was still breathing. He was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital approximately one hour later. The medical examiner found that compression of the neck and chest, along with Garner’s positioning on the ground while being restrained by police, caused his death but that Garner’s acute and chronic bronchial asthma, obesity and hypertensive cardiovascular disease were contributing factors.

At the time of his death, Garner was out on bail after being charged with illegally selling cigarettes, driving without a license, marijuana possession and false impersonation.

Query: Did Pantaleo commit any crimes? If so, were his actions justified?

The Grand Jury in New York

Under New York State law, unless the defendant consents, all felony cases must be presented to the Grand Jury. Grand Juries are empowered to hear evidence presented by prosecutors, and to take various actions regarding the evidence and legal charges they are to consider. The Grand Jury can also conduct independent investigations. Grand Juries sit for a term of approximately one month. Each Grand Jury is comprised of 23 citizens who hear and examine evidence concerning offenses and take action based on such evidence.

What Can a Grand Jury Do?

The Grand Jury can vote an indictment (a written statement charging an individual with the commission of a felony), direct the filing of a prosecutor's information (which contains non-felony charges), direct the removal of a case to Family Court, or issue a report. For the first three actions, the Grand Jury must determine that the evidence is legally sufficient and that it provides reasonable cause to believe that the defendant has committed the crime. Otherwise, the Grand Jury dismisses the matter. If the Grand Jury votes an indictment, the case is adjourned to a Supreme Court Arraignment Part.

Are Grand Jury proceedings open to the public?

No. Grand Jury proceedings are secret and only specifically-authorized persons can be present. In addition to the Assistant District Attorney (ADA) and the Grand Jurors, there is a stenographer and a Grand Jury Warden, who oversees administrative aspects of the proceedings. The ADA is the legal adviser of the Grand Jury and examines all witnesses who testify before it, including any defendant or defense witnesses. At least 16 Grand Jurors must be present for any Grand Jury to hear evidence and take action. Furthermore, at least 12 of the members who have heard the evidence must agree before any affirmative action can be taken.

Limited Release of Evidence From Grand Jury Proceeding

The release of material by Staten Island Supreme Court Judge Stephen Rooney was made on the request of Staten Island District Attorney Daniel Donovan “in the interest of assuring the public that the relevant evidence was presented” to the grand jury. The disclosed details, some already public knowledge, were that:

--- The grand jury sat for nine weeks and heard from 50 witnesses, including 22 civilians.

--- Sixty exhibits were admitted into evidence, including four videos, crime scene photographs, four videos, medical records, autopsy photos and records pertaining to NYPD training.

--- The grand jury was instructed on relevant principles of law, including Penal Law Sec. 35.30 (below) regarding a police officer’s use of physical force by a police officer making an arrest.

--- The grand jury followed the proper procedure in reaching its decision not to indict Pantaleo.

N.Y. PENAL LAW § 35.30 entitled “Justification; use of physical force in making an arrest or in preventing an escape” provides in pertinent part as follows –

1. A police officer or a peace officer, in the course of effecting or attempting to effect an arrest, or of preventing or attempting to prevent the escape from custody, of a person whom he or she reasonably believes to have committed an offense, may use physical force when and to the extent he or she reasonably believes such to be necessary to effect the arrest, or to prevent the escape from custody, or in self-defense or to defend a third person from what he or she reasonably believes to be the use or imminent use of physical force; except that deadly physical force may be used for such purposes only when he or she reasonably believes that:

(a) The offense committed by such person was:

(i) a felony or an attempt to commit a felony involving the use or attempted use or threatened imminent use of physical force against a person; or

(ii) kidnapping, arson, escape in the first degree, burglary in the first degree or any attempt to commit such a crime; or

(b) The offense committed or attempted by such person was a felony and that, in the course of resisting arrest therefor or attempting to escape from custody, such person is armed with a firearm or deadly weapon; or

(c) Regardless of the particular offense which is the subject of the arrest or attempted escape, the use of deadly physical force is necessary to defend the police officer or peace officer or another person from what the officer reasonably believes to be the use or imminent use of deadly physical force. (emphasis added).

Our laws give police officers broad leeway to use force, either when they fear their lives are in danger or when they are making an arrest. The Supreme Court cemented the scope of that authority in 1989’s Graham v. Connor, in effect barring courts from scrutinizing most of the split-second decisions a cop makes in the heat of the moment.

While NYPD officers have broad authority to use force to apprehend a suspect, the department explicitly bars officers from using chokeholds, which have been blamed for the deaths of untold suspects over the past several decades. City officials restricted the use of the dangerous maneuver in 1985—allowing it only when an officer’s life was in danger, and it was the “least dangerous alternative method of restraint”—before banning it outright in 1993. At the time, then-chief John Timoney summed up the policy shift like so: “Basically, stay the hell away from the neck.” Still, Timoney offered a caveat that he could imagine “extreme circumstances” in which an officer might have no other choice but to break the rule.

However, according to a scientific research study entitled "Mechanism of loss of consciousness during vascular neck restraint" that appeared in the Journal of Applied Physiology, the findings emphatically refuted assertions that this valuable control technique was inherently dangerous and potentially lethal.

"With the majority of subjects [in the study] rendered unconscious and, importantly, [with] no serious adverse events in our subjects, we conclude that VNR is a safe and effective force intervention," writes the lead researcher, Dr. Jamie Mitchell. He hedges that statement by cautioning that "outcomes could vary" in some populations, such as unhealthy or older subjects, who were not part of the study.

If chokeholds are banned by the NYPD, why wasn’t Pantaleo indicted?

While Pantaleo’s use of the banned maneuver on Garner received significant scrutiny in the court of public opinion, it likely received much less consideration in the court of law. As stated by Eugene O’Donnell, a professor at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice, “there is a difference between an act that is banned in the NYPD’s rulebook and one that is deemed criminal. There is no explicit law that criminalizes the use of a chokehold on someone either by a police officer or someone else.”

In the United States, police officers get the benefit of the doubt in most circumstances because they are putting their lives on the line every day and in many instances they must make split-second decisions in the heat of the moment.

It’s tough to say whether Pantaleo should have reasonably expected his chokehold to end Garner’s life. Had he used a Taser, would there have been a similar result?

In a prepared statement following the Grand Jury’s announcement, Pantaleo said: “It is never my intention to harm anyone and I feel very bad about the death of Mr. Garner.”

We may never know exactly what convinced at least 12 of the 23 jurors to vote against an indictment of any kind against Pantaleo. But by deciding—despite the weeks of testimony, the photographs, the video and the plethora of other data -- that there was insufficient evidence to justify the case going to trial. The jurors effectively declared that Garner’s death was, at worst, a horrible mistake, one that might amount to misconduct but any crime that may have been committed by Pantaleo was excusable and justified under Sec. 35.30 of the N.Y. Penal Law.

Respectfully submitted,

Lidia Szczepanowski, Esq.

#Attorney, #Lifestyle Authority, #TheEverythingLidiaShow, #MrsCorpAmerica2013, #Entrepreneur, #Designer, #FounderNOWSA, #PersonalSafetyExpert #ClosetSuperHero

www.EverythingLidia.com

Tips, Secrets & Proven Strategies On How to Develop Your Personal Brand

noreply@blogger.com (Everything Lidia) — Wed, 10 Dec 2014 21:44:00 +0000

Personal branding is “the art of building a unique brand around yourself as an individual” and it is just as important as your company’s brand and image. Personal branding requires you to “find a signature image, a unique voice, and a recognizable standard that your readers, fans, and clients can grow to recognize”.

“Personal branding is becoming increasingly important because modern audiences tend to trust people more than businesses. Audiences are used to seeing advertising everywhere, and they tend to believe corporations and organizations take actions and speak with only sales in mind. Personal branding allows you to establish a reputation and an identity while still maintaining a personal level of trust and interaction, usually through social media.”

Additionally, people want to do business with other people, not with companies. A strong positive personal brand can dramatically improve the number of users who take a desired action i.e. retain you or go to your website and buy something.

(Quoted sections above extracted from Inc.com article by Jayson DeMers, Aug. 27, 2014)

Here are some tips, secrets and proven strategies on how to develop your personal brand.

1.) Become an “EXPERT” in at least one professional field or focus on a topic that you are knowledgeable about and start blogging and posting about it

• Develop yourself in a very specific niche and try not to come across as the “Jack of All Trades...Master at None.” Also consider discussing a hobby, sport or organizations you are involved with.

• Consider signing up with HARO (Help a Reporter Out) and answer applicable queries...you never know, you might be published in a newspaper, magazine, or on the internet

• Have someone pitch you and your expertise to local media, colleges, groups, etc., especially if your topic was recently in the news. Try not to self-promote...it annoys people.

• Also have someone submit your name for consideration for awards and acknowledgments. But remember that these events usually have a “cost” attached to them and you will be expected to sell tickets, seats or ads.

2.) Set up and link accounts on various SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS i.e. Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, Google Plus +

• Set up both personal and professional accounts but do not pitch them too frequently. Let people become interested in YOU first and YOU as the professional second. Social media lets people discover who you are...and it’s free. You control the information that is posted. Be careful not to post inappropriate content or too many random and uninteresting photos.

• Anytime you speak or are mentioned in any article, share/post it and thank the host or author.

3.) VOLUNTEER your time with a CHARITY you feel connected to

• You will meet like-minded individuals and you will expand your potential client base.

• Offer pro bono legal services when appropriate.

4.) Take at least a few PHOTOS at every events you attend

• Post the photos on your social media sites and remember to acknowledge the event, the venue, the host and the people who were with you. Most people love to see themselves in photos...and it’s great PR!

• Be careful not to over expose yourself by attending too many events or posting too many photos.

5.) Create and email a NEWSLETTER

• Take all those business cards you’ve accumulated over the years and create a data base and email list using Mail Chimp, Constant Contact or a similar service. These services all offer templates to design a unique Newsletter.

• Cover topics that highlight your professional acumen but also include some human interest content.

~Lidia Szczepanowski, Esq.

The Everything Lidia Show - Domestic Violence & Abuse

noreply@blogger.com (Everything Lidia) — Tue, 09 Dec 2014 01:57:00 +0000

What is domestic violence? Lidia, and guest, Karin Caro touch on the unfortunate topic of domestic violence in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

11 Foods That Make You Hungrier!

noreply@blogger.com (Everything Lidia) — Sat, 30 Aug 2014 12:46:00 +0000

11 FOODS THAT MAKE YOU HUNGRIER!
Who would have thought...?

Click on the link next to the Big Sandwich below to read an article from "Healthy Living MSN" and find out why your stomach sometimes feels like a bottomless pit.

Why am I always hungry!

Luxe Lifestyle Lover Must-Have Hair Accessories

noreply@blogger.com (Everything Lidia) — Thu, 17 Jul 2014 18:58:00 +0000

Hair Today! This Summer's Hair "Must Haves"!!

The Scientific Way to CUT A CAKE!

noreply@blogger.com (Everything Lidia) — Tue, 24 Jun 2014 18:39:00 +0000

I LOVE CAKE!! Who would have thought there is a "science" behind cutting it!

"We're betting that when you cut into a cake, you probably take out one wedge at a time. It's perfectly reasonable, particularly given that it's the classic method for divvying up the dessert. Turns out, though, science says we've been cutting cake all wrong.

"You're not maximizing the amount of gastronomic pleasure you can get from this cake," says British author Alex Bellos. He took to YouTube to show us all the proper cake-cutting procedure—and since it hit the site three days ago, it's already gotten more than two million views. Apparently, this technique is 100 years old and was once published in the science magazine Nature, when Francis Galton wrote a letter to the editor about the faulty wedge method. The reason that strategy is so bad? When you store your cake afterward, the exposed sides will continue to dry out until you take another piece. Slicing your cake in a different way solves this problem, keeping your dessert tender and moist." Check out the video below:

Timeless Beauty...

noreply@blogger.com (Everything Lidia) — Wed, 21 May 2014 01:05:00 +0000

Since the beginning of time, philosophers have struggled to find the true meaning of beauty. They all had their own distinct ideas, but in the end their only common thought was that beauty was indeed impossible to define.

So what makes a woman beautiful? Hint: You can’t buy it, you can’t get it from someone else, and it’s not injectable.

1.) A RADIANT SMILE - a genuine smile is uplifting, contagious, and it can penetrate the mind and reach the heart.

2.) A SPARKLE IN HER EYES - when a woman has the metaphorical “sparkle in her eyes”, she has the power to light up a room. It is a reflection of her inner beauty, charisma and zest for life.

3.) A GOOD SENSE OF HUMOR- it invokes smiles and laughter from others, spreads pleasure, can keep things from appearing too overwhelming and it certainly brightens up the atmosphere.

4.) APPRECIATION - the ability to find beauty in everything surrounding her and feeling gratitude for all the remarkable things she has been blessed with.

5.) PASSION – having boundless enthusiasm and using it to making a positive difference in the world.

6.) CONFIDENCE – trusting oneself and having faith in one’s own abilities, talents and skills.

7.) INTELLIGENCE – reveals itself in a woman’s eyes and in how she walks and talks and carries herself. It is a vital element of a woman’s essence.

8.) EMPATHY – sharing the feelings of others and identifying with what another person is going through can elevate beauty to an even higher level.

9.) INTEGRITY –having a sound and moral character and ethical principles and doing the right thing for the right reason even when no one is watching.

10.) A great pair of STILETTOS can’t hurt either.

Enhancing and developing these qualities and characteristics will make any woman feel beautiful… physically, emotionally and spiritually.

“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen, nor touched...but are felt in the heart.”-Helen Keller

Mrs. Corporate America 2013 Farewell Video - Lidia Szczepanowski-Goldsmi...

noreply@blogger.com (Everything Lidia) — Mon, 03 Mar 2014 01:48:00 +0000

What a Fabulous Year! Thanks Everyone!

7 of the Sexiest Things We Learned in 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Everything Lidia) — Thu, 02 Jan 2014 17:38:00 +0000

1.) A survey from last August found that spending time away from your S.O. on occasion can help ensure you have sex more often. Girls weekend anyone?

2.) Forget popping the Excedrin, sex can help relieve migraines.

3.) People who are in actual relationships get frisky more often than friends with benefits. So no need to be jealous of the single girl whose sex life you always assumed was so amazing.

4.) Contrary to what Miley Cyrus may think, sex does happen after 40—and it can be totally hot. In fact, post-menopausal women have just as much sex as women who haven't yet reached menopause, according to research.

5.) The middle of your menstrual cycle (day 14, to be exact) is when you're most likely to experience the “O”. Mark your calendar!

6.) Practicing yoga on a regular basis could help boost your arousal. Now, say ommmm...

7.) People who get busy at least four times a week make more money than those who twist the sheets less often. So what are you waiting for—get naked already!

Excerpts from www.WomensHealthMag.com, December 4, 2013, Robin Hilmantel

8 Tips For A More Blissful Marriage

noreply@blogger.com (Everything Lidia) — Tue, 10 Dec 2013 03:34:00 +0000

1.) Be happy for your spouse (not jealous) when he or she is doing something that makes them happy or fulfilled.
2.) Don’t nag and complain about things that are really not important.
3.) Be respectful towards each other and treat each other as equal partners.
4.) Agree to disagree.
5.) Laugh as often as possible.
6.) Dress up and go out on a date…[don’t just “go out to dinner”]…and try to keep the cell phones off the table.
7.) Romance is important but don’t forget about sensuality and passion.
8.) Realize and appreciate that your spouse may not be “perfect” but they are perfect for you!

~Lidia

When I Laughed Out Loud

noreply@blogger.com (Everything Lidia) — Fri, 11 Oct 2013 12:47:00 +0000

Last week I met a man I’ve known for many years. He’s someone whose voice and laugh I could recognize even in a loud crowded room because I heard it just about every day for well over a decade while commuting to and from Hofstra University, St. John’s Law School and my first couple of jobs after graduation. He’s also the guy who I think was the catalyst or inspiration behind the creation of the acronym “LOL” because day after day after day as I listened to him and his cohorts on the radio, I found myself literally laughing out loud at the off color and sometimes filthy but hysterical jokes, bits and stories. But I didn’t feel like I was just listening to a radio show, for that hour or so while I was driving in my Datsun 280ZX, I was right there in the studio with them. I knew these people…I knew their talents, their flaws, their vulnerabilities and the things about them that everyone else made fun of. Their personal lives were completely exposed and nothing was sacred. We all knew where they grew up, what their families were like, what they did over the weekend, and of course we learned about everyone’s eating and bathroom habits and their sexual experiences. It was reality radio, the precursor to reality television.

So when I met Jackie “The Joke Man” Martling (head writer for the Howard Stern Show for as long as I can remember) at The Space in Westbury, NY the other day, I felt compelled to walk over to him, put my arm around his neck and say “Jackie…I want to thank you…I want to thank you for making all those long and tedious years of driving on the Long Island Expressway and Northern State Parkway not just tolerable but incredibly enjoyable and memorable.” “I also want to thank you for sharing your extraordinary gift of humor, laughter and amusement with me and millions of other people.” “You gave us the opportunity to escape from reality while we were held hostage in our cars.”

Jackie turned to me with a slight grin on his face and said quietly “That was so sweet…Thank you for telling me that…It means a lot to me.” We shared a beautiful moment.

Jackie and I became instant friends and we’re now in the process of developing a Long Island television show that will be filmed in front of a live audience. We’re slotted to be co-hosts of the show. It’s magic in the making so stay tuned!

And BTW, “F” Jackie!

http://www.JokeLand.com

@JackieMartling

“Jackie’s Joke Hunt” on SiriusXM Howard 101

Sat. October 19^th, Jackie “The Joke Man” Martling appearing at the Great Neck Arts Center.

Limited Seating. https://www.facebook.com/events/276350565823415/

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

https://www.facebook.com/EverythingLidiaInc
@EverythingLidia

Handling Your Case in Small Claims Court (New York)

noreply@blogger.com (Everything Lidia) — Tue, 27 Aug 2013 03:27:00 +0000

It’s inevitable…one day you will probably find yourself named as a plaintiff or defendant in Small Claims Court. In Small Claims Court, an individual can sue for up to $5,000 in money damages, but they cannot sue to compel someone to do something, or for pain and suffering. A corporation, partnership, or association can also commence an action in Small Claims Court, and this is called a Commercial Small Claims case. There are special rules that apply to Commercial Claims and Consumer Transactions, so make sure to read “Your Guide to Small Claims & Commercial Small Claims in New York City, Nassau County and Suffolk County” found at http://www.nycourts.gov/courts/nyc/civil/pdfs/smallclaims.pdf before you proceed with filing an action.

General advice for your Small Claims case:

ﾠﾠ

∙ Every judge (or Arbitrator) has his/her own “style” when presiding over a case. In all likelihood, the judge will not be anything like Judge Judy, so be prepared to deal with any type of personality, from strict to informal or anything in between.

ﾠ

∙ The plaintiff will present their case first. The defense will be heard afterwards (which may include a counterclaim). Do not interrupt any party (especially the judge) when they are speaking, and be respectful of all parties and court personnel. Take notes while the opposing party is speaking because you will have the opportunity to explain or refute their statements.

ﾠﾠ

∙ Remember that you are telling a story so give sufficient relevant details of your claim or defense. Do not give extraneous facts or information. Focus on the issue(s) only.

∙ Conduct some research on the Internet to determine what the “elements” of your cause of action are. For example, what you must prove in order to prevail.

∙ Bring original documents to court and at least one copy (preferably two) of all documents. Clip the documents together, put a tab on each document, and add an index (cover sheet) that identifies every document you will be presenting. The judge will appreciate the organization.

∙ Try to anticipate what the opposing party will be saying in/bringing to court and prepare responses, if possible.

∙ Prepare, prepare, prepare. Review what you are going to say in court, and the documents you intend to present before your court date.

The Best Personal Protection Advice and Safety Tips for Woman & Teen

noreply@blogger.com (Everything Lidia) — Tue, 06 Aug 2013 00:25:00 +0000

I Have a Manolo Blahnik and I Know How to Use It!

FIGHT BACK OR NOT?

By: Lidia Szczepanowski, Esq.

If you are the victim of an attempted assault or robbery, should you fight back?

According to the National Criminal Justice Reference Service and a report prepared by the Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault, active resistance can decrease the chances of a completed rape by about 80 percent. The bottom line is this: If someone is just looking to take your valuables and they have a weapon, give them up. On the other hand, if an attacker is looking to sexually assault or rape you, statistics support the conclusion that you should “fight back.” Remember that active resistance could be as simple as making noise and bringing attention to yourself. This can “disrupt” the attacker’s “plan” and he may get discouraged or lose focus. If you respond with a physical counter-attack, make sure to commit to your decision because there is no turning back. And remember, your goal is to escape, not engage in a fight.

What should you do if someone pulls a gun out at you?

If that happens, you're probably going to have to choose between "bad" and "worse". There is no 'right' answer as to what you should do, just the "best" one under the circumstances since no two gunpoint situations are alike. The advice given by most safety experts is to remain calm, establish eye contact, be as compliant as you can, be aware of your surroundings, and do what you need to in order to survive. If it's a robbery, once again, just give up your valuables. But if someone wants to kidnap you or take you as hostage, most experts agree that you should never go from point "A" to point "B" because unfortunately there is a high probability that you will be taken by the perpetrator to the scene of your own sexual or other assault and/or grave. If possible, try to stall getting into a vehicle in any way you can which might include, for example, looking past your attacker's shoulder and nodding, giving him the impression that there is somebody behind him, bringing attention to yourself, or perhaps even pretending to faint. Again, there is no "right" answer and your best defense is to avoid the situation to begin with.

In any event, everyone should "think in advance" how they would or could react if they were attacked or if someone pulled out a gun or knife. It is important to remember that every individual attacker and situation will be different, and there is no one set of correct responses. While it is true that fighting back may cause an attacker to become even more agitated, it is important that before reacting, you listen to your gut, and let your experience and common sense kick in.

BE PREPARED!

The key to safety is very simple: Education. You must arm yourself with the knowledge and tools necessary to respond to a number of different circumstances. What may work in one situation against one perpetrator may not work in another.

Safety awareness is about using your common sense, being well informed, thinking in advance, and planning ahead. “Stylish Safety”® is about looking at the world from a different perspective. It is a lifestyle and state of mind that guides women on how to avert danger and be safer by simply learning and applying a few basic principles to their lives without compromising their confidence, style, elegance and panache. Stylish Safety teaches women very effective safety tips and defensive tactics and how to incorporate them into a woman's everyday life. Stylish Safety is also about the choices we make and how we look at things around us. Individuals who integrate Stylish Safety into their lives exude positive energy and walk with their chins up a little higher and their shoulders back a little further.

Stylish Safety has developed “T I P S” that, if followed, will significantly decrease anyone’s chances of being the victim of an attack.

Think. Ask yourself, “What would I do if…? Think about and anticipate your response/reaction before an attack happens.

Interrupt. Try to stop the incident from starting or progressing by remembering the “DIVAS 5 Steps to Safety” as developed by Stylish Safety:

· Distraction. Pay attention to your surroundings and stay focused.

· Intuition. Always trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t;

· Vulnerability. Don‘t put yourself in a vulnerable situation.

· Assessment. Carefully analyze and assess the situation at hand and be ready to react.

· Skills. Know your weapons, natural and material, and how and when to use them, i.e., hands, fingers, feet, handbag/briefcase, ATM card, whistle, umbrella, book, etc. (The high heels of those Manolo Blahniks can be an extremely effective weapon to fight off an attacker!)

Practice. Physically rehearse how you will react and what you will do if someone grabs or attacks you.

Speed and Strength. React with purpose and force. You may have a small window of opportunity to act and even a smaller amount of time to escape.

KNOW SOME BASIC PERSONAL DEFENSIVE MANEUVERS AND TACTICS!

It takes many years of training to become proficient in any martial art, but you don’t have to be a Black Belt to be able to defend yourself. Every person should know at least a few basic yet highly effective defensive maneuvers. Here are a few.

One of the most forceful defensive moves is a swift strike to the throat area just below the Adam’s Apple with your fingers or the side of a stiff hand. Always think “stun and run.”

Another powerful response is to push both your hands up into the attackers chin, forcing his head to whip back.

Yet another super effective move is to push the side/edge of your hand directly underneath the middle of someone’s nose or strike underneath the nose with your palm heel.

Jabbing your fingers into a facial orifice such as eyes, ears and mouth can be quite successful as well.

Finally, if you are brought to the ground, try to get up immediately. If you cannot, stay on your back keeping your body rounded with your feet up. Keep the perpetrator away by kicking your legs and feet. If a person gets on top of you while you are on your back, keep your elbows and hands up in front of your face. Then try to push the person off by bumping your pelvis up forcefully and using your hips to get him off balance. Once he falls forward, try to roll onto your side and get up.

Although the above information may seem daunting, it is important not to live in fear because confidence and a positive attitude are two of your strongest weapons. Remember to keep your eyes open and walk with your head up high and shoulders back and never compromise your personal style.

So go ahead and put on your Manolos, grab your Louis Vuitton bag and arm yourself with style and safety!

Please share this article with your daughters, mothers, sisters and all the women in your lives. It may save theirs.

Lidia Szczepanowski, Esq., a practicing attorney and legal correspondent (www.AskLidiatheLawyer.com), an entrepreneurial consultant in various media outlets and personal safety expert, is the founder of the National Organization for Women’s Safety Awareness, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit (www.TheNOWSA.org), Everything Lidia, Inc. (www.EverythingLidia.com), and the nationally renowned “Stylish Safety” seminars”. She has over 15 years of martial arts training, holds a Black Belt in Karate and is currently training in mixed martial arts and the Russian martial art of Systema. Lidia also holds the titles of Mrs. Corporate America 2013, Mrs. New York International 2009 and Mrs. New York America 2006.

I Demand a Weiner Withdrawal!

noreply@blogger.com (Everything Lidia) — Sun, 28 Jul 2013 21:26:00 +0000

Oops..he did it again? I think not!

I was sitting at DMV and the thought of Weiner popped into my head ...no, the other Weiner.
Tony, Tony, Tony. You embarrass yourself, your wife and your family when you share photos of your "package" with strangers. Then you ask for forgiveness...and you get it. All good, right? You're cured. Nope...even after you're "caught with your pants down", literally, you DO IT AGAIN even AFTER you are humiliated and AFTER you resign from Congress.
Oops?? That's no "oops"! Everyone makes mistakes (some more than others) but multiple offenses, that's no mistake. Is it your lack of Self-Esteem? Huge Ego? Narcissism? Who knows and I guess who really cares.
I don't know about you but I want the new Mayor of NYC to be, among other things, a respectable, polished, up standing citizen...(Bloomberg "you did good").
Weiner...you clearly have an "issue"....Despite the humiliation, the jokes, and all the controversy, I just don't understand why you would "do it again"!?
How do you expect others to respect you if you have absolutely no respect for yourself, your wife or your family. If you were indeed elected Mayor of NYC, I wonder how long it would be until the next Weiner pics manifested themselves.
So I say, Weiner...forget politics...just pitch a reality show to Bravo featuring you as the "star" so you can satisfy your need for attention and "exposure" (pun intended). The title of the show? Maybe something like "Keeping up with the Kardashians" but "Keeping Up the Weiner"... oops... I mean "Keeping Up With the Weiner". How could I resist!

Understanding the Criminal Case Against George Zimmerman

noreply@blogger.com (Everything Lidia) — Sun, 14 Jul 2013 16:06:00 +0000

Did Zimmerman shoot and kill Martin? Yes
Was Martin unarmed and Zimmerman armed? Yes
Did Zimmerman follow Martin after instructed not to? Yes
Did Zimmerman follow him so that he could inform police of his location? Unknown/Possibly
Was Martin “profiled” as a potential criminal because of his race? Unknown/Possibly
Did Martin attack Zimmerman? Unknown/Possibly
Did Zimmerman attack Martin? Unknown/Possibly
Was it Zimmerman’s voice and screams on the police audio tape? Unknown/Possibly
Was it Martin’s voice and screams on the police audio tape? Unknown/Possibly
Did Zimmerman believe that he needed to use deadly force to prevent bodily harm? Unknown/Possibly

With Liberty And Justice For All

The Criminal Charges: The jury had three choices…to find Zimmerman guilty of second-degree murder; to find him guilty of a lesser charge of manslaughter; or to find him not guilty.

For second-degree murder, the jurors would have had to believe that Trayvon Martin's unlawful killing was "done from ill will, hatred, spite or an evil intent" and would be "of such a nature that the act itself indicates an indifference to human life."

To convict Zimmerman of manslaughter, the jurors would have had to believe he "intentionally committed an act or acts that caused the death of Trayvon Martin."

The jury found that Zimmerman was not guilty of either charge.

Sec. 776.013, subdivision (3) of The 2012 Florida Statutes entitled “Home protection; use of deadly force; presumption of fear of death or great bodily harm”, also at times referred to as the “Stand Your Ground” law, provides:

“A person who is not engaged in an unlawful activity and who is attacked in any other place where he or she has a right to be has no duty to retreat and has the right to stand his or her ground and meet force with force, including deadly force if he or she reasonably believes it is necessary to do so to prevent death or great bodily harm to himself or herself or another or to prevent the commission of a forcible felony.”

Sec. 782.02 entitled “Justifiable use of deadly force” states:

“[T]he use of deadly force is justifiable when a person is resisting any attempt to murder such person or to commit any felony upon him or her or upon or in any dwelling house in which such person shall be.” (emphasis added).

The Standard of Proof in a Criminal Case: Beyond a Reasonable Doubt

General Definition:

“The standard that must be met by the prosecution's evidence in a criminal prosecution: that no other logical explanation can be derived from the facts except that the defendant committed the crime, thereby overcoming the presumption that a person is innocent until proven guilty.

If the jurors or judge have no doubt as to the defendant's guilt, or if their only doubts are unreasonable doubts, then the prosecutor has proven the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt and the defendant should be pronounced guilty.

The term connotes that evidence establishes a particular point to a moral certainty and that it is beyond dispute that any reasonable alternative is possible. It does not mean that no doubt exists as to the accused's guilt, but only that no Reasonable Doubt is possible from the evidence presented. Beyond a reasonable doubt is the highest standard of proof that must be met in any trial. http://legal-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/Beyond+a+Reasonable+Doubt.

The jury must have felt that there were too many “could have beens” and “maybes” and that there were indeed other logical explanations of what happened or could have happened between Zimmerman and Martin. (i.e. the possibility existed that Martin attacked Zimmerman, who did not have the duty to retreat, and that Zimmerman used deadly force when he believed it was necessary to prevent great bodily harm to himself.)

Will there be a civil action brought against Zimmerman by Martin’s family? Probably.
Will Zimmerman be found liable? Maybe.
Will a jury find that Zimmerman “Stood His Ground” and acted in self-defense? Maybe (if it even gets to that point).

In civil litigation, the standard of proof is either proof by a preponderance of the evidence or proof by clear and convincing evidence. These are lower burdens of proof.

A preponderance of the evidence simply means that one side has more evidence in its favor than the other, even by the smallest degree.

Clear and Convincing Proof is evidence that establishes a high probability that the fact sought to be proved is true. http://legal-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/Beyond+a+Reasonable+Doubt

But...the "Stand Your Ground" law is also a defense or immunity to any civil suit. The difference between immunity and a defense is that an immunity bars suit, charges, detention and arrest. A defense permits a plaintiff or the state to seek civil damages or a criminal conviction but may offer mitigating circumstances that justify the accused's conduct. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stand-your-ground_law

Conclusion: Trayvon Martin’s death is a tragedy. Perhaps the “Stand-Your-Ground” laws should be revisited by the state legislatures. Some laws are not perceived as “just”.

The Best Diet Tip EVER!

noreply@blogger.com (Everything Lidia) — Sat, 13 Jul 2013 14:22:00 +0000

“Dieting is the only game where you win when you lose!”

― Karl Lagerfeld

It was two days before my 30^th high school reunion and I still had no idea what I was going to wear. What do you wear to a reunion anyway? Is there some unwritten fashion protocol? Does one wear short, long, sequins, black, white, color, print …. ?

So I ran into Lord & Taylor (lucky me, they were having a big sale), grabbed an arm full of dresses and hopped into the fitting room. I had the good fortune of finding a stall with a functioning door (those doors never stay closed) and I hung the dresses on a ridiculously small hook. Next I proceeded to undress. I looked up and there I was…in a room of mirrors where I was able to see multiple images of every single part of my body, in full fluorescent light, up close and personal!

NOTE TO SELF: When I need some inspiration to start my

diet again, go into fitting room with many mirrors and take clothes off….

I'm Going To Have FUN Even If It Kills Me!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 26 May 2013 23:00:00 +0000

We're all guilty...and some of us more than others. We focus our lives on all the things we're supposed to be doing, like taking care of everyone and everything around us, i.e. kids, spouse, animals, job, etc., and we forget about the things we want to do.
When did we stop going to our playground? At what age did our "fun" die?

FUN...According to Susan Biali, MD it means "anything that connects us with our childlike energy and joy". Dictionary.com defines "fun" as "something that provides mirth (gaiety or jollity, especially when accompanied by laughter) or amusement".

We've all heard that all work and no play made Jack a dull boy but did you know that life without fun and games isn't just dull, it's down right unhealthy. Research shows that "playing" has incredible health benefits. Playing and having fun helps us blow off steam, deal with stress, learn, experiment, and be a more social person, among many other benefits. Recent Japanese research found that spending as little as 2 hours a month laughing or listening to your favorite music has as big an impact on your blood pressure as eliminating salty foods or even losing 10 pounds!

If you can’t remember the last time you had some real honest to goodness FUN, tap into your Fun Zone by trying some of these.

Put on some loud music that makes you feel like you’re back in high school and “Just Dance!” (if you’re in high school…well you’re probably still having fun and good for you!)
Do something spontaneous and out of your ordinary (keeping it legal and moral, of course)
Go out and play with your friends (if it’s a nice day, go outside a throw a Frisbee, have a catch, go bike riding, go to the toy store and pick up some classic toys like a jump roll, hula hoop, “Skip It”, Chinese jump rope, kick ball, water balloons, and the like)
Paint, write, draw or do anything creative
Learn some jokes and share them with your friends (they will probably be even funnier and perhaps more memorable if you botch the punch lines)
Get dirty (this one is subject to your own personal interpretation; the original thought was dirt...)

Thank you for visiting with us.

Lidia

Lidia Szczepanowski, Esq.