My Name is Brad – A Docu-drama Film / Project in Memory of Kelly Thomas and Countless Others Who Fall Victim to the Stigma of Mental Health and Homelessness in America

Bradley James was born on April 13th, 1972. Kelly Thomas was born on April 5th, 1974. While neither met each other, they both share something in common. They both suffered from schizophrenia. While Brad lives in British Columbia, struggling to make ends meet, Kelly was not that lucky. On July 10th, 2011, while many in America were glued to their television screens, watching in awe as the US team defeated Brazil during the semi-final of the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup, Kelly Thomas lay in a hospital bed, bloody and dying.

Kelly Thomas, a man who had struggled with fits of schizophrenia his entire life, was dragged out into the streets and brutally beaten by six officers of the Fullerton California police department – he later succumbed to his injuries.

Now, 57 Years of Soul Music Radio is collaborating with The Urban Survivor Humanitarian Network and Cheektowaga-Omni Media Marketing based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, to tell Kelly’s story to the world. The company is raising funds via Slated, a crowdfunding platform for filmmakers, to launch the production of their film, “My Name Is Brad” in early Spring 2021.

This docudrama film is an initiative to recognize severe mental health issues and make them a mainstream topic of conversation. The film is aimed to show the controversy surrounding mental illnesses and police misconduct. It revolves around the lives of Brad James and Kelly Thomas.

With the current scenarios looking to get worse before they get better, the producers of “My Name Is Brad” believe that now’s the right time to bring this topic to the forefront of humanitarian initiatives that should be prioritized. With the new President in the Oval Office, we are closer to this dream than ever before – to end the injustice, indignation, and stigma associated with mental health and homelessness.

All funds raised through this film will be used to kick start an Urban housing development in all major cities. Modular container housing can be purchased for less than $2000 per unit. Since the government spends millions on everything else, it’s time to end homelessness and help those who are struck with mental illness.

From Homelessness to Renting: How to Find Rental Housing without References

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There is no point in sugar-coating the fact that transitioning from homelessness to renting can be quite difficult for an individual, especially in cities like Toronto or Vancouver. From a landlord’s perspective, these markets are full of eligible and desirable tenants, so why would they lend their property to someone without any reference and an unstable (or non-existing) rental history.

This is a challenge most homeless people face, even when they have found a stable job and have enough money for a deposit. Finding rental housing without references can be tough but not impossible. There are a few things you can do:

1. Seek out your regional Housing First* program. It’s designed to help homeless people find stable homes. You’d need to contribute a portion of your income (ideally 30% or more) while the rest would be covered by rent subsidies. It also helps you establish a rent history that can open up more rental housing options for you.

2. Provide potential landlord proof of stable income. If you’ve been working for a while, bring your last three payslips and, preferably, a letter from your employer stating your good behavior (and that they don’t have any plans to let you go in the foreseeable future).

3. If you have a stable income and money for monthly rent but not the deposit, charities like Canadian Red Cross and Salvation Army might assist you (financially). With a decent deposit amount (say three-months rent), you might be able to convince potential landlords to rent to you, even if you don’t have references.

4. Don’t fake a reference history. It is a huge red flag, and if you get caught, it might disrupt your chances of renting with other landlords as well.

5. Talk to the people who are running emergency shelters. They might be able to guide you to individuals who might be inclined to rent to you without references, just to pull you out of homelessness. If not, they might be able to put you in touch with local housing assistance programs you might not be aware of.

Be honest, talk to the people helping homeless individuals in your community, try to save as much money as you can for rent and deposit, find a co-signer if you can, and make sure your employer puts in a good word for you.

*https://www.bchousing.org/projects-partners/funding-opportunities/RHFP

Exclusive Boggles Brown T-Shirts Online

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Browse and bedazzle when you wear the words of our talkative transient.

Greetings Readers,

Now, like never before, we have been waiting for a marketing breakthrough to gain that glimmer of interactivity on it’s way to your wardrobe. This time, we hired Social Media Management Company UK to help us in our branding and marketing our new product. It’s here – Boggles Brown multi-colour T-Shirts where you get to write the dialogue for our lovable but lunatic street-sage.

https://www.slated.com/films/736655

Drop by and donate to give the My Name Is Brad docudrama the funding it needs and order a Boggles Brown exclusive hand drawn T-Shirt by local artist Brad James.

Stay Safe and Think of B. Brown When You’re Feeling Down.

– The Crew At The Urban Survivor and My Name Is Brad

B.C.’s new vision

B.C.’s new vision for mental health and addictions care

A Pathway to Hope: A roadmap for making mental health and addictions care better for people in British Columbia  charts a course to an improved future for health and well-being in B.C. 

In the comprehensive plan for mental health and substance use care, the government is introducing various evidence-based treatment options, and among them, 12 step therapy stands out as a valuable approach to support people living in B.C.’s mental health and well-being from youth to adulthood.

It also identifies priority actions the government will be taking over the next three years to help people experiencing mental health or substance use challenges right now. This roadmap of both short and long-term changes to B.C.’s mental health care system is based on four pillars:

  • Wellness promotion and prevention
  • Seamless and integrated care
  • Equitable access to culturally safe and effective care
  • Indigenous health and wellness

A Pathway to Hope is a plan to begin transforming B.C.’s mental health and substance use service system from its current crisis-response approach to a system based on wellness promotion, prevention and early intervention where people are connected to culturally safe and effective care when they need it. At its heart, it represents a new way forward for B.C. built on compassion, care and the perspectives of people with lived experience of mental health and substance use challenges, that breaks down barriers and meets people where they’re at. Additionally, the initiative aims to prioritize mental health by breaking down barriers and meeting people where they’re at.

#mentalhealth #addiction #mentalwellbeing #peaceofmind #bccanada

James Wood Is Trending And Bill Pulti Is Spending

The rich get to trend and spend, you and I get to watch , and so the world turns. We have been away for awhile, now we have moved to an area where believe it or not White people are a minority – still the ones that are left live in the best neighborhoods, you can tell by the electrified fencing…

All men are brothers we come from the same atomic soup, and just like a soup sometimes the ingredients clash, which makes for an exciting mix!

A Fresh Approach: How to Find the Perfect Gift for Women

When shopping for a gift for a special woman in your life—be it a friend, partner, family member, or colleague—it helps to think beyond the usual suspects. There’s a world of possibilities out there, from minimalist jewelry to high-tech gadgets and enriching experiences. If you’re looking for unique inspiration, don’t overlook the realm of Women’s Unusual GIft Ideas on Abracadabra NYC’s website, which can introduce you to standout products and imaginative concepts. Below are some pointers to guide you toward selecting a thoughtful present she’ll cherish.


1. Match the Gift to Her Interests

A. Daily Habits and Hobbies

  • Fitness & Wellness: A stylish yoga mat, high-quality blender for smoothies, or subscription to a meditation app.
  • Arts & Crafts: A watercolor painting kit, calligraphy set, or pottery workshop voucher.
  • Tech Enthusiast: A smartwatch, phone lens kit, or novelty gadget she can use in her day-to-day life.

B. Personal Style & Aesthetic

  • Classic or Trendy?
    Is she a fan of timeless looks (little black dress, pearl earrings) or edgy pieces (chunky boots, statement jewelry)? Pick something aligned with her vibe.
  • Color Palettes
    If she gravitates toward neutrals, go for sleek designs in black, white, or gray. If she loves bright hues, opt for something bold and colorful.

2. Go for Timeless Classics

A. Jewelry & Accessories

  • Minimalist Pieces: Think delicate necklaces or stud earrings for an everyday look.
  • Custom Engravings: Personalize a bracelet or ring with her initials, a date, or a meaningful phrase.

B. Fragrances & Self-Care

  • Signature Perfume: If you know her scent profile—floral, woody, or citrusy—choose a high-end perfume that matches her taste.
  • Spa Essentials: Put together a gift basket with bath bombs, scented candles, and plush robes for a home-based spa experience.

C. Flowers & Sweet Treats

  • Unique Bouquets: Pick her favorite blooms or try an arrangement of exotic flowers to stand out from the usual roses.
  • Artisanal Chocolates: Go for gourmet truffles or chocolate bars in adventurous flavors for a twist on the classic.

3. Personalized & Thoughtful Tokens

A. Photo & Art Gifts

  • Canvas Prints: Turn a memorable photo into a piece of wall art she can admire every day.
  • Photo Books: Compile snapshots from shared vacations, major milestones, or nostalgic childhood moments.

B. Subscription Services

  • For Her Passions: Curate a subscription box that caters to her love for books, gourmet snacks, beauty products, or sustainability.
  • Streaming Services: If she’s a movie buff or music lover, covering a subscription for her favorite platform is a practical treat.

C. Handwritten Letters & Cards

  • Customized Stationery: Combine heartfelt notes with monogrammed notepads or greeting cards that match her personality.
  • Scrapbook Approach: Include quotes, ticket stubs, or tiny souvenirs that highlight why you value her.

4. Experience-Based Surprises

A. Workshops & Classes

  • Cooking & Baking Lessons: From a master pasta-making course to gourmet dessert tutorials, experiential gifts can refine her culinary skills.
  • Art & Craft Sessions: Pottery, painting, or jewelry-making workshops encourage her creativity and offer a fun escape from routine.

B. Outdoor Adventures

  • Nature Retreats: Plan a weekend getaway to a cabin or a glamping site, complete with scenic hikes or lake activities.
  • Thrill-Seeker Options: If she’s into adrenaline, consider skydiving, bungee jumping, or a day of rock climbing.

C. Cultural Experiences

  • Music & Theater: Tickets to a live concert, musical, or play, paired with a pre-show dinner.
  • Local Tours: A guided walking tour, food crawl, or museum visit in her city can turn a familiar area into a new adventure.

5. Thoughtful Presentation

  • Handwritten Notes: A short message explaining why you chose this gift can amplify the sentiment.
  • Coordinated Wrapping: Match the wrapping paper and ribbon to her favorite colors, or use a theme that reflects the gift itself.
  • Surprise Element: Present it in a fun setting—whether it’s a dinner party or a casual brunch—so the reveal feels extra special.

Got The Fitness Blues? Try These Easy Tips!

Many of us begin on a fitness regimen but few of us follow through and actually reach our goal. Getting fit can be a challenge, but if you have the right motivation and right advice it can be accomplished. This article will help outline some tips on reaching your fitness goals.

If you are going to use a bench, you should always test it first. If the bench is too hard, it may cause a misalignment in your spine that can weaken your arm. Test the bench by pushing a thumb into the padding. If you can feel the wood underneath the padding, find a better bench to use.

Staying active is the key to maintaining ones fitness. Finding what ever exercise one prefers best can help one maintain their levels of exercise and ensure that they stay active. A body that stays active its whole life can age gracefully ensuring that one will stay fit through out their lives.

Workout in front of a mirror. Keeping good form while exercising is very important in order to achieve maximum fitness results. By working out in front of a mirror, you can monitor your posture and stance to make sure that you are performing the exercise properly. Maintaining proper form will help your muscles to build evenly.

Fitness can be addictive and necessary in your every day life once you can clearly identify the ways it is making you feel healthier, and an overall more energetic person. Exercising every day just adds to your fitness plan and to your lifestyle. Working out every day can become a part of your every day routine.

A great tip to keep you motivated to do your exercise sessions is to pay your trainer in advance. If you have paid, you will be more inclined to continue with your workout sessions. You will not want to waste your money but not following through. Since your trainer is already paid, it will give you a reason to go work out.

Focus on a plan and stick to it. Working on plans such as a upper body/lower body split can be beneficial to serious fitness because it helps portions of the body rest on off days. Muscles are living cells and grow during periods of intense stress. This growth, however, requires a rest period; the rest period is an important feature of our body that upper/lower splits make a note of. Just as with proper maintenance practices, giving your body the right amount of rest is crucial for effective muscle growth.

A good way to help you get fit is to count your calories. Knowing how many calories you consume a day is key because it determines whether you’ll lose weight or gain weight. By keeping your calories at maintenance level or less, and losing calories through exercise, you’ll be fit in no time.

Having read this article you should now be one step closer to your fitness goals. Knowledge is power, and now you are empowered to actually attempt to tackle your goals. Being fit is no easy task, but now it has been facilitated, so get to the gym and start applying everything you have learned.

What Needs to be Done to End Homelessness?

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Noreen date of birth ? death was in 2012, she loved music any-kind of good music. She loved to party and that she did until the end.

An adequate supply of safe, affordable and appropriate housing is a prerequisite to truly ending homelessness in the long term. This includes ensuring that people who are chronically and episodically homeless are prioritized and that systems are in place to enable such persons to receive housing and supports through Housing First programs. In a tight housing market, implementing a Housing First agenda becomes that much more challenging. It is also important to address the supply of affordable housing, in order to broaden access for other priority populations, including women fleeing violence, Aboriginal Peoples, families, seniors and youth, for instance.

Ultimately, addressing Canada’s housing crisis comes down to money, which then begs the question about our national priorities.

Canadian homeowners enjoy over $8.6 billion in annual tax and other benefits. This kind of investment in home ownership is important because it benefits millions of middle-income households.

Spending on affordable housing for Canada’s poorest households however, is less than one quarter of that invested in homeownership, approximately $2.1 billion per year and has declined quite dramatically over the past 25 years.

Ironically, it costs more to ignore our housing problem than it would to fix it. Consider the estimate that homelessness alone costs the Canadian economy over $7 billion per year. While the Government of Canada invests $119 million annually to address homelessness through the Homelessness Partnering Strategy (provinces and municipalities also invest), this is not sufficient to address the problem and as a result has not led to a noticeable reduction in homelessness.

By not investing adequately in housing for the poorest Canadians, health care, justice and other taxpayer-funded costs increase.

Put another way, as Canadians, we are spending more money on people who do not need help compared to those in greatest need. And by not spending on those in greatest need, we are not only creating hardship for many Canadian families, we are creating a considerably larger expense for the Canadian economy.

We can do things differently. In the State of Homelessness in Canada 2014, we propose a robust housing investment strategy that would cost the economy much less than the current costs of homelessness. The key elements of our strategy include the following proposals:

 

 

continue reading on this link

Got The Fitness Blues? Try These Easy Tips!

Blues ?

Many of us begin on a fitness regimen but few of us follow through and actually reach our goal. Getting fit can be a challenge, but if you have the right motivation and right advice it can be accomplished. This article will help outline some tips on reaching your fitness goals.

The sort of lean muscle mass that supports joints and enhances children’s metabolism is increased with physical exercise. This lowers their chance of developing diabetes. Additionally, while body fat in general isn’t inherently bad for young people, abdominal fat in particular has been associated to cardiovascular disease and other health problems; along with making appropriate dietary choices and engaging in a range of exercises, this bad abdominal fat may be reduced.

Children who are physically active during the school day pay greater attention and work harder on their assignments. Yes, recess aids in your children’s learning. Children who exercise more often likely to perform better in school.

If you are going to use a bench, you should always test it first. If the bench is too hard, it may cause a misalignment in your spine that can weaken your arm. Test the bench by pushing a thumb into the padding. If you can feel the wood underneath the padding, find a better bench to use.

Staying active is the key to maintaining ones fitness. Finding what ever exercise one prefers best can help one maintain their levels of exercise and ensure that they stay active. A body that stays active its whole life can age gracefully ensuring that one will stay fit through out their lives.

Workout in front of a mirror. Keeping good form while exercising is very important in order to achieve maximum fitness results. By working out in front of a mirror, you can monitor your posture and stance to make sure that you are performing the exercise properly. Maintaining proper form will help your muscles to build evenly.

Jacques Sayagh

Jacques Sayagh

Fitness can be addictive and necessary in your every day life once you can clearly identify the ways it is making you feel healthier, and an overall more energetic person. Exercising every day just adds to your fitness plan and to your lifestyle. Working out every day can become a part of your every day routine.

A great tip to keep you motivated to do your exercise sessions is to pay your trainer in advance. If you have paid, you will be more inclined to continue with your workout sessions. You will not want to waste your money but not following through. Since your trainer is already paid, it will give you a reason to go work out.

Focus on a plan and stick to it. Working on plans such as a upper body/lower body split can be beneficial to serious fitness because it helps portions of the body rest on off days. Muscles are living cells and grow during periods of intense stress, exercise in this case. This growth, however, requires a rest period; the rest period is an important feature of our body that upper/lower splits make a note of.

A good way to help you get fit is to count your calories. Knowing how many calories you consume a day is key because it determines whether you’ll lose weight or gain weight. By keeping your calories at maintenance level or less, and losing calories through exercise, you’ll be fit in no time.

Anyway, what many people don’t know is that some commonly prescribed medications and over-the-counter drugs can also affect exercise performance. If you’re worried about your drug use, we’re here to help.

Having read this article you should now be one step closer to your fitness goals. Knowledge is power, and now you are empowered to actually attempt to tackle your goals. Being fit is no easy task, but now it has been facilitated, so get to the gym and start applying everything you have learned.