I am soon getting a Forester and plan to use it a bit off the paved roads, but not really much: still, 95% to maybe even 98% of my driving would be on tarmac. Even when I'd get off the road, I'd stick to gravel and forest roads: no rock crawling or anything like that, just the mild stuff.
Since the off-road part is rather small, but kind of certain (there are places in the mountains I'd like to go to, and I don't plan on taking them off my travel bucket list), I am unsure whether I really do need to get the AT tires, or I can just stick to some SUV all-season tires. Now, there are a couple of considerations here...
First and foremost, I live in Europe, and the offer of AT tires around here is MUCH worse than in America or Australia, for instance. Also, when taking only the "mild" AT tires into consideration, the ones with the 3PMSF sign (which I want to have), the size I need (225/60 R17) is basically offered just by Bridgestone and Yokohama. It's the very new Dueler AT002 and the tried and true Geolandar AT G015 that I can get, and that's pretty much it. Luckily, they both seem fine a choice and are not very expensive (Yokohama is about 25% cheaper to buy).
Now, reading about the internal constructions of some of the all-season tires (which is how we call the all-weather tires in Europe, meaning they all have the 3PMSF certification), I can see it's the same (or very similar) to the ones of the mild AT tires. Usually, it's something like "two high-strength steel belts and a single ply nylon layer atop a dual-ply polyester body casing". Of course, the AT tires have the thread which is a bit more aggressive, especially the sidewall, plus they usually have more thread-depth. This makes them a bit more puncture-resistant, but is this difference really that big, considering the internal construction similarities?
On the other hand, the thread differences make them heavier and tougher to handle, meaning they will probably provide for worse performance on-road, especially in wet conditions. Also, the economy should be worse with AT tires, but that doesn't concern me at all. What I would like to know, though, is how much worse are they on-road, compared to the all-season tires? Especially in dry&wet braking (I am not a very spirited driver, so I do not require some top-level handling characteristics).
The biggest problem now is that there are almost NO tests that compare the two groups. The only one I found is this one:
https://www.tyrereviews.com/Article/2018-Auto-Bild-SUV-All-Season-Tyre-Test.htm
I've looked on tyrereviews.com (obviously), tire-rack (even though it's not a European site, they still have great tests), tiredriver.com, AutoBild, AutoZeitung, AutoExpress... Nothing very useful. Does anybody else know about some other direct comparisons? I don't care much about the performance of the tires on gravel/dirt, as long as they are not too sensitive (in terms of getting damaged).
Basically, if the ATs are not much worse than the all-season tires (Goodyear Vector 4season SUV Gen-3 or Yokohama Geolandar CV 4S G061, for instance) in the dry&wet, I would go with them. If there is a substantial difference in braking/aquaplaning, like 15-20% or more, I'd definitely go with the AS tires, having in mind my more on-road oriented needs, and I'd just target a model which is a bit more sturdily designed and constructed.
TL;DR - are there any tests that answer the question from the topic title?

My partner and I have a feral cat, 6ish yr old Missy, who lives in our apartment with us. We would like to get her a kitten for companionship but could use advice on introducing them. Everything I’ve seen talks about introducing their scents to each other and using treats/pets for positive association. Trouble is…we can’t get close enough to Missy to pet her, let alone shove a scented object in her face to smell. She’s not aggressive and has never hissed or swatted at us, even when we have to trap her to cut her nails or take her to the vet. Any advice on how to make the introduction?
Some context: my partner and her ex adopted Missy a few years ago when she just wandered into their house. She had been hanging out in their backyard every day and they fed her and even built her a little house out there that was heated and waterproof. Anyway, they already had two cats when Missy came in and she loved playing with them and snuggling with one of them especially so we know that she’s fine with other cats and think she would benefit from having a companion.

Here is the recap of the 14 monetized posts from Kylea and Joseph "Joe" Gomez of Kylea G Weight loss Journey on 05/13/24.
Disclaimer: I am not a physician, influencer, or paid content creator. I am not affiliated with WW. I am semi-retired from healthcare with multiple college degrees. These opinions are my own based on social media content. I wish no harm to Kylea or Joe Gomez.
☎️ If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, please call or text 988 for assistance.
The tagline of Kylea G Weight loss Journey is, "I changed my life with prayer and a playlist of songs. No surgery, no meds. Just Jesus."
DAILY STATS 05/13/24:
0/14 posts discussed prayer
2/14 contained vague references to music
0/14 discussed exercise
0/14 shared a recipe
4/14 were about something Kylea ate or drank
1/14 contained a side by side photo comparison
2/14 were about her current/future pet (one of these was from "Joe" about Amazon pet items)
1/14 "Joe" posted about getting Whataburger
2/14 were about donut holes & a clapback
2/14 were a trip update
📢 For our friends at Meta, that means at least 50% of Kylea's monetized content had nothing to do with weight loss, which is the tagline and purpose of her page.
⚠️ Disordered Eating- Daily Food Consumption (Data compiled from monetized content):
5 WW Points: Barebell Cookies & Cream Protein Bar
0 WW Points: Alani Nu Energy Drink (🚨 These contain 200mg of caffeine)
9 WW Points: TWO In-N-Out "Protein style" hamburgers wrapped in lettuce.
0 WW Points: Bahama Buck's Sugar-free Birthday Cake & Sugar-free Strawberry Cheesecake flavored shaved ice.
📢 For our friends at Meta, that means Kylea consumed 14 out of (up to) 30 daily WW points in maintenance mode= Disordered Eating. This is dangerous messaging for her 138k+ followers on a weight loss journey.
Recipes Shared:
ZERO
🚨 Please speak with a medical professional about any questions or concerns you have about your health.
Comments: Kylea CHOSE to continue posting triggering food content, and clapped back at followers for questioning it.
⚠️ Binge Eating, Compulsive Buying Disorder (CBD), aka shopping addiction, Disordered Eating, Food Addiction, Gaslighting, and Religion will be discussed.
Post 1. Donut Hole Controversy: Kylea posted an empty donut hole bag and claimed her sister ate all of them at 3 WW points each. When called out by a follower, Kylea responded with this, "I don't eat donuts. I support other people eating whatever they'd like to eat. What's unhealthy is commenting on other people's food choices.💖💖💖"
Post 2. Using the Pet Cat for Content: This nontent was her male cat's reaction to being told his puppy sister arrives on Sunday.
Post 3. Protein Bar Slip Up: Kylea recycled an old photo of her holding a Barebell protein bar and tried to act like the photo was taken today. 👀
Post 4. Trip Update: Kylea is shopping for puppy bandanas online because Birdie "only" has 6, while her sister drives. She is listening to 🎶 in the car. 💤 This is nontent.
Post 5. "Unhealthy" Food Clapback: Narcissistic, defiant Kylea had to get the last word in.
"I had someone comment that I post a lot of "unhealthy" food for a weight loss page. The point of my page is to show others that all foods are healthy in moderation. What is not healthy, is commenting on other people's food choices. Mind your own plate. 💖 I personally eat very healthy myself but I support all of the people around me in whatever food choices they want to make for their own lives. I will never and have never commented on someone else's food choice for their own lives."
⏸️ This is gaslighting. Here we go...

1. Kylea is triggered by words like treat, craving, and indulge but was not at the beginning of her weight loss journey.
   
2. Kylea is afraid to own a microwave because it could jeopardize her recovery with food addiction and give her quick access to convenient foods. (Please ignore the air fryer and cabinets full of snacks.)
   
3. If Kylea does not like what Joe is eating at a restaurant, she has placed the menu between them so she does not have to see it.
   
4. Joe is not allowed to have regular condiments in the fridge.
   
5. Joe is to "support" her by eating foods he does not prefer at home (most of the time).
   
6. Kylea controls what Joe eats when she is away from home.
   
7. Please ignore all comments Kylea makes on the Basham and Lee families' social media accounts about food.
   
8. Kylea does not eat clean.
   
9. She triggers her followers with calorie-dense items on purpose for monetary gain.
   
10. Kylea has disordered eating.
    

If that list isn't enough to question her speech, a follower requested a 24-hour food log and the # of daily WW points Kylea uses. Kylea replied, "after months of bullying over that because of how healthy I do eat, I won't ever do that again. It's for my peace that I no longer do."
📢 To our friends at Meta, why is a "weight loss influencer" allowed to refuse to answer follower questions about WW (her chosen tool) and refuse to provide an example of what she eats in a day? This is the job YOU pay her to do.
Post 6. Alani Nu: Avoid this beverage (200mg caffeine) if you are unsure about your recommended caffeine intake.
Post 7. Trip Update: Her sister drove 6 hours. They have to be at the airport tomorrow at 4 am.
Post 8. Fort Worth Stockyards: This photo editing fail made Kylea appear 8 feet tall with a shrunken head and long extremities. Upon follower questions, she blamed her sister for how she held the phone. 🤔
Post 9. IN-N-Out Burger: Kylea's sister ate a cheeseburger & fries, and Kylea had 2 "protein style" hamburgers she claimed were called "protein burgers." Umm, nope.
Post 10. Shaved Ice: Kylea's sister got the baby size shaved ice, and Kylea got a significantly larger-sized cup.
⏸️ I smirked as Kylea claimed the protein bar was "yummy," the In-N-Out was "really good," and the sugar-free shaved ice, "It is SO good!!," but the giant iced cookie cake slice yesterday was "fine." She loves to gaslight and act holier-than-thou. 😇
Post 11. Whataburger: "Joe" posted his bag of Whataburger after waiting 1.5 hours in the drive-thru on opening day.
⏸️ How are the donut holes, energy drink, cheeseburger and fries, and regular shaved ice Kylea's sister consumed, and Whataburger her husband consumed healthy weight loss content? Why is Meta paying her for this nonsense?
Post 12. Amazon Purchases: "Joe" posted a picture of more puppy items and said, "Can you tell my wife is excited about her new role as dog mom 😂 😂" This is nontent.
Post 13. May 2021 vs Today: Kylea is "forever proud of the girl who changed her entire life -208 lbs."
⏸️ Kylea, you traded addictions. That is not something to be proud of. You are terrified of the scale and heavily modify your photos. That is not something to be proud of, either. You can spend all the money and travel the world but you are not happy. Quite the opposite. Seek medical care. ☮️
Post 14. Final Update: Kylea feels "uplifted" from window shopping at the Stockyards and local Target with her sister, listening to country music.
Takeout Purchases: Donut Holes= $3.50 est; In-N-Out Burger: Cheeseburger & Fries with 2 "Protein-style" Hamburgers (online prices)= $11.75 est; Bahama Buck's Baby & Regular Sized Shaved Ice= $9.18 + tip; Whataburger (unknown food)= $8 est;
Shopping/Travel Expenses: Barebell Protein Bar= $2.45 est; Alani Nu Freezeberry Energy= $2.48 est; Alani Nu Juicy Peach Energy= $2.48 est; Gas Joplin, MO to Fort Worth, TX: (373mi/33mpg) x $3.85 est= $43.52 est; Gas Fort Worth, TX to Dallas, TX: (32mi/33mpg) x $3.85 est= $3.73 est; Hotel (prices by airport used)= $75 est + fees; Bocce's Coconut Macaroon Crunchy Biscuits 5oz bag Qty 2= $12.98 est; Bocce's Sauvignon Bark Soft & Chewy 6oz bag Qty 2= $13.58 est; Bocce's Burger & Fries All-Natural Dog Treats Qty 2= $9.08 est; PetStages Grow-with-Me Ring Dog Chew Toy= $5.24 est; Pet Botanics Training Rewards Soft & Chewy Bacon Flavor 20oz bag Qty 2= $27.98 est; Undercoat Rake Grooming Tool= $10.25 est; Paw Print Cube Fabric Storage Bin= $12.99 est; Baghler Airline Approved Dog Travel Bag Light Pink- A Backpack with Silicone Bowls & Food Baskets= $34.99 est; Fabric Strawberry Harness & Leash= $17.99 est; Black Nylon Training Leash= $8.95 est;
All info from Reddit. ✌️

Transform your outdoor living space into a cosy, stylish retreat with the perfect outdoor rug. Whether you're looking to add a splash of colour to your garden, patio, or balcony, the vast array of designs, sizes, and colours available means there's something to suit every taste and style. From the sun-soaked terraces of Cape Town to the tranquil gardens of Johannesburg, an outdoor rug can beautifully complement your outdoor furniture, creating an inviting atmosphere for relaxation and entertainment.
Choosing the right rug isn't just about aesthetics; it's also about durability and maintenance. Fortunately, modern outdoor rugs are designed to withstand the harsh South African climate, from the blazing summer sun to unexpected rain showers. They're water-resistant, UV-resistant, and easy to clean, ensuring they remain a vibrant and functional part of your exterior decor year-round. Dive into the world of outdoor rugs and discover how you can enhance your outdoor living space with just a few clicks.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Design and Versatility: Outdoor rugs offer an incredible range of designs, sizes, and colours, making it easy to find the perfect match for any outdoor setting, from gardens and patios to balconies, complementing South African outdoor aesthetics flawlessly.
• Durability and Maintenance: Crafted with materials that resist the harsh South African climate, outdoor rugs are not only durable against sun, rain, and wear but also easy to maintain, ensuring they remain vibrant and functional throughout the year.
• Eco-Friendliness: Many outdoor rugs are made from eco-friendly materials, aligning with global sustainability trends and offering a green, aesthetic upgrade to any outdoor living space without compromising environmental values.
• Comfort and Protection: Beyond beautifying outdoor areas, outdoor rugs provide a layer of comfort and protection against hot or rough surfaces, making your outdoor space more enjoyable and inviting.
• Selection Criteria: When choosing an outdoor rug, consider factors like material, design, size, and maintenance needs to ensure a perfect balance between style and functionality, especially considering South Africa's unique weather conditions.
• Care and Maintenance Tips: Following simple maintenance routines, such as regular cleaning, and protecting the rug from prolonged moisture can significantly extend its life, keeping your outdoor spaces attractive and welcoming.

WHY CHOOSE OUTDOOR RUGS?

When deliberating the aesthetic and functional enhancement of your outdoor living areas, outdoor rugs stand out as an exceptional choice. Integrated with the vivid yet harsh South African landscape, these rugs bring comfort, style, and protection to your patios, decks, and balconies. With an abundance of options available, understanding why to opt for outdoor rugs can guide your decision toward creating a more inviting outdoor space.

VARIETY IN DESIGN AND SIZE

Outdoor rugs come in a vast array of designs, sizes, and colours. Whether you are looking for a large rug to cover extensive areas or a small accent piece, there's something for every space. Favourites like the India Ink outdoor rugs introduce an artistic touch with their unique patterns, embodying both traditional and contemporary designs that sync beautifully with the South African decor ethos.

DURABILITY AND EASY MAINTENANCE

Crafted to withstand the elements, high-quality outdoor rugs are made from durable materials resistant to sun damage, rain, and wear. This resilience ensures that your rug remains vibrant and intact through seasons. Maintenance tips for outdoor rugs usually include simple cleaning steps, making them practically effortless to care for. A quick hose down or a gentle scrub can keep them looking fresh, enabling you to enjoy your outdoor setting without worrying about upkeep.

ECO-FRIENDLINESS

Acknowledging the global shift towards sustainability, many outdoor rugs now feature eco-friendly materials. Choosing these environmentally considerate options not only elevates your outdoor area but also contributes positively to the planet. It's a thoughtful consideration for those who value green living alongside aesthetic appeal.

COMFORT AND PROTECTION

Beyond their decorative appeal, outdoor rugs offer a layer of comfort and protection. They shield your feet from hot or rough surfaces, making outdoor areas more accessible and enjoyable. This comfort encourages you to spend more time outdoors, soaking in the beauty of your garden or enjoying the view from your balcony.
When selecting the best outdoor rugs for your South African home, consider design versatility, durability, maintenance ease, environmental impact, and the comfort they bring to outdoor living. These factors ensure that your chosen rug not only enhances the beauty of your outdoor spaces but also supports a lifestyle that appreciates the outdoors.

SELECTING THE PERFECT OUTDOOR RUG

When you're considering enhancing your outdoor space, particularly in South Africa's unique climate, selecting the perfect outdoor rug becomes crucial. The aim is to combine durability with style, ensuring your garden, patio, or terrace reflects your personal aesthetic while standing up to the local weather conditions.
Start by considering the material. High-quality outdoor rugs, often found in collections like India Ink outdoor rugs, are crafted from materials that resist fading, mildew, and staining, making maintenance a breeze. Materials such as polypropylene or recycled plastic are not only durable but are also eco-friendly, aligning with sustainability principles.
Design plays a fundamental role in your selection process. The best outdoor rugs offer a wide range of styles, from vibrant and bold patterns to more subdued and natural tones, ensuring there's something to match every decor style. Whether you're leaning towards a contemporary look with hip Moroccan-inspired prints or preferring the timeless appeal of natural flatweave designs, there’s a rug to fit your outdoor setting.
Size and shape are also key considerations. Measure your space beforehand to ensure the rug fits well and complements your outdoor furniture arrangement, creating a cohesive look. Round rugs might suit smaller patios, while large rectangular rugs can define seating or dining areas in spacious gardens.
Lastly, think about care and maintenance. Outdoor living in South Africa can be dusty and windy, so opting for easy-to-clean rugs that require minimal maintenance can save you time and effort. Look for rugs that you can simply hose off or wipe clean, keeping your outdoor space looking its best with minimal fuss.
By keeping these factors in mind - material, design, size, shape, and maintenance tips for outdoor rugs - you'll find the perfect rug to enhance the beauty and comfort of your outdoor living space, combining style and functionality seamlessly.

PLACEMENT TIPS FOR OUTDOOR RUGS

Selecting the perfect outdoor rug for your South African home involves not just finding a design that speaks to your style, but also placing it strategically to enhance your outdoor living spaces. Whether you're looking to define a seating area on your patio, add comfort underfoot in a sunny garden spot, or welcome guests with style on your balcony, following these placement tips ensures your outdoor rug serves both functional and aesthetic purposes effectively.
Firstly, consider the focal point of your outdoor space. If you're aiming to create a cosy outdoor living room, position your rug so it anchors your seating area. This not only adds a layer of comfort but also visually ties together your outdoor furniture, creating an inviting atmosphere. For spaces like patios or terraces, make sure the rug is sized appropriately to fit all furniture comfortably, ideally with all legs on the rug to prevent tripping hazards and ensure a cohesive look.
In sunny South African gardens, placing high-quality outdoor rugs under dining tables or in shaded areas can protect your feet from hot surfaces while adding a touch of elegance. Opt for rugs from renowned brands like India Ink Outdoor Rugs, known for their durability and stylish designs, to ensure your outdoor space looks its best throughout the seasons.
For balconies and smaller areas, choosing the best outdoor rug that complements your decor while maximising space is crucial. Round or oval rugs can soften the appearance of square balconies, making the area feel larger and more welcoming. Additionally, maintenance tips for outdoor rugs are paramount; selecting materials such as polypropylene ensures easy cleaning and longevity, essential for the South African climate.
Lastly, to enhance the safety and extend the life of your outdoor rug, consider using a non-slip pad underneath, especially in high-traffic areas or on smooth surfaces. This not only prevents accidents but also protects both the rug and the flooring beneath.
Incorporating these placement and maintenance tips into your outdoor decorating strategy guarantees your outdoor rugs not only elevate the beauty of your South African home but also offer practical benefits, making your outdoor living spaces more enjoyable year-round.

MAINTENANCE AND CARE

Maintaining your outdoor rugs in South Africa does not have to be a daunting task, especially when you choose high-quality rugs designed to weather the varying elements. Following specific maintenance tips can ensure your rug remains vibrant and durable, complementing your outdoor space for years to come.
Firstly, reference the manufacturer's cleaning instructions for your rug. High-quality outdoor rugs, such as those from India Ink, often have tailored advice to keep them in prime condition. These guidelines are invaluable for addressing any unique maintenance requirements.
Outdoor rugs are engineered to resist water and dry quickly, thanks to synthetic materials in their construction. However, to extend the lifespan of your garden rug, it's wise to add an extra layer of protection during long bouts of rain or heavy precipitation. Positioning the rug under a covered patio or using a waterproof cover when it's not in use can significantly reduce moisture exposure, keeping the rug in top shape.
Regular cleaning also plays a pivotal role in maintaining the aesthetic and functional integrity of outdoor rugs. A simple routine of shaking off debris, vacuuming, and spot cleaning will prevent dirt accumulation. For more thorough cleaning, a mild detergent mixed with water and a soft brush can remove tougher stains without damaging the rug’s fibres. After washing, ensure the rug is completely dry before placing it back. This prevents mould and mildew growth, which can be detrimental to the rug's condition.
In addition, flipping the rug periodically can prevent uneven wear and sun fading, especially in South Africa’s sunny climates. This practice ensures all parts of the rug face exposure evenly, preserving its colours and structure.
By incorporating these maintenance tips for outdoor rugs into your care routine, you ensure your outdoor living space remains inviting and stylish. Whether it’s a cosy seating area in your patio or a vibrant addition to your balcony, a well-cared-for outdoor rug enhances the charm and functionality of your outdoor settings, making every moment spent outside even more enjoyable.
Choosing the right outdoor rug for your South African home isn't just about style; it's about creating a durable, inviting space that reflects your personal taste while standing up to the local climate. With the right materials, size, and shape, you've got a plethora of options to enhance your outdoor living area. Don't forget the importance of regular maintenance to keep your rug looking its best. By following these simple care tips, you'll ensure your outdoor rug remains a vibrant and practical addition to your home, ready to withstand the elements and daily life. So, go ahead and select a rug that not only complements your outdoor space but also promises longevity and ease of care. Your perfect outdoor setting awaits.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT MATERIALS ARE BEST FOR OUTDOOR RUGS IN SOUTH AFRICA'S CLIMATE?

Opt for outdoor rugs made from synthetic materials like polypropylene. These materials are durable, resist fading from the sun, and can handle moisture better than natural fibres, making them ideal for South Africa's varied climate.

HOW SHOULD I CHOOSE THE SIZE AND SHAPE OF MY OUTDOOR RUG?

Consider the size and layout of your outdoor space. Measure the area where you want to place your rug, leaving enough room around the edges. Choose a shape that complements your furniture arrangement, whether it’s rectangular for a seating area or round to match a circular table.

WHAT ARE THE KEY MAINTENANCE TIPS FOR OUTDOOR RUGS IN SOUTH AFRICA?

Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions closely. Protect your outdoor rugs from excessive moisture, clean them regularly to remove dirt and debris, and flip them periodically to prevent uneven wear and sun fading. This will help keep your rugs looking vibrant and prolong their lifespan.

CAN OUTDOOR RUGS BE CLEANED WITH A HOSE?

Yes, many outdoor rugs can be cleaned with a hose. It’s a quick and effective way to remove dirt and debris. After hosing it down, allow the rug to air dry completely in the sun to prevent mildew growth.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I REPLACE MY OUTDOOR RUG?

The frequency of replacement depends on the rug's material quality, maintenance, and exposure to the elements. With proper care, a high-quality outdoor rug can last several years. Inspect your rug regularly for signs of wear, fading, or damage to determine if it needs replacing.

This might be a stupid question, but why do we grout between tiles, instead of using something that's waterproof, like a silicon caulk?
I know that you can seal grout using certain products, but why not just use caulk in the first place?
Immediate thing that comes to mind is that there are a lot more varieties of grout colour. Maybe price wise on larger projects makes a difference?
​
In any case, please let me know how stupid I'm sounding.
Thanks! :p

https://www.ikea.com/us/en/p/vaerldens-travel-back-pack-black-20487934/ I bought this to compare with other backpacks for one bag travel that I am currently testing (Ospreay Farpoint 40 and Cabin Zero Military 36)
Pros
-price (50 bucks)
-comfort.
-brief case mode
-nice laptop compartment with super thick false bottom
-very light weight (about 1lb)
-looks: very minimalist which I like. Nice bright interior color. No strap dangles even for shoulder strap.
-perfect amount of pockets (4) to organize. You could use strap pockets for organization as well.
Cons
-no belt strap
-no compression strap
-zippers don't look that durable. I just found out its made by OPTI, which supposedly makes quality zippers.
-Waterproof is question mark. This doesnt matter to me much because I carry around rain backpack cover.
This is a very versatile backpack for various uses (grocery, motorcycle, camping, picnic, gym bag, etc) but for one bag travel it may lack some features that are important to you. I decided to keep it for domestic travel and grocery shopping.
*Edit: this may be perfect for two-bag travel when paired with varlden tote bag. Because how simple this bag is it would be easier to carry tote with this backpack. And you can use your tote for day pack.
https://www.ikea.com/us/en/p/vaerldens-backpack-black-60487927/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=surfaces&utm_campaign=shopping_feed&utm_content=free_google_shopping_clicks_Home_organisation&gad_source=1

I remember the date & time the scariest night of my life happened to me: it was between the hours of 9 and 10 at night on Thursday, July 09, 2020, so this was during the COVID-19 pandemic. This happened in Pittsburgh. At around 09:00 PM, I started doing my laundry starting with the washing machine, which takes around 20 - 30 minutes to wash clothing. With that amount of time to spend, I decided to go outside for a walk around my neighborhood for a nightly breeze while listening to music (listening to “Same Old Story” by From Ashes To New on repeat) on my iPhone ear-buds.
Just to clarify, I was feeling very down because of how the world just stopped due to the pandemic, with everything closed, a protest that turned into a riot downtown that I was trapped in, and a scandal that transpired at a university I attended, but these are tales for another time. I just couldn’t see my friends and girls I had crushes and I was even going out to clubs in Pittsburgh’s nightlife especially South Side, so I was having difficulty adjusting to a worldwide event trying to cope as well as having patience. Being such an upbeat person with a great attitude in spite of overthinking (like believing the coronavirus spread in Wuhan, China would make it around the world to become a pandemic THEN it does) this put major emotional distress on me.
I was on my way back to the house around 15 minutes before 10, when I was walking through a small highway and no lampposts, so it was creepy going through a dark highway with nothing but trees on both sides and hearing the sounds of crickets chirping.
With about a half of a mile to go, I was on the right side of the road when a white car coming the opposite way slows down, then the driver’s window lowers then a man yells at me to drop my wallet. I was surprised by why he demanded me to, but then as I stepped closer to the man’s car, I could see he was holding & pointing something towards me in his hand: a hand-held firearm. What makes this scarier is I didn’t have my wallet with me. When I found out exactly what was going on, I sprinted away back to the house, scared in the back of my mind he was going to shoot at me or take a sharp U-turn to chase me. I was wearing a white sleeveless shirt, long jeans and waterproof boots, but I ran without tripping. When I was sprinting I also looked back every few seconds hoping I wouldn’t see the same white car, but I didn’t. I made it back to the house, sweating and reflecting on what had just happened to me for the first time, being someone who was never in a situation like that before. The only one else at the house was one of my second cousins, who was in a gaming room playing video-games unaware of my night walk; the others, my mother & my cousin (my second cousin’s mother) were out of town that night.
Never in my life would I ever think I would be a victim of attempted robbery. I wish I got the model of the car, the name of the brand, and, most importantly, the license plate, to report him, but I was too scared to know about that in my fight or flight response.
I should have still called the police to report this, but being I was young & feeling down around this time & had never made a police report, I didn’t. I know, very selfish of me. To this day, I wish I had just dialed 911 for this, but having an overprotective mother who was out of time that night with my cousin and my cousin’s son was the only one else with me at the house not knowing I went outside for a walk while he was playing video-games, I just couldn’t bring myself to confess this. They still don’t know about it except a few select friends of mine I called to talk about it with. I want my mother to live until her end without having fear & the thought her youngest son had his life threatened one night.
I know this was a stupid thing I did, but my mind was not well in tact with my adjustment to the Covid-19 pandemic; I needed a moment to clear my mind at the moment even at night.
However, this has taught me a lesson and this should teach you all who have never been in a situation, to never go out at night in the dark, unless you’re going somewhere but do it safely, with someone you trust, or if you’re looking for time to kill during an indoor chore that takes waiting, do something that doesn’t involve going outside. Either way, pandemic or no pandemic, be aware of what happens in situations like this and be safe, and learn from this if you do go out at night, never go alone. However, I wonder what would’ve happened if I didn’t figure out what was going on longer, or if I told him I didn’t have my wallet. I believe that if I didn’t know what was going on any longer, chances are I wouldn’t be here.

We installed the Govee outdoor LED striplights, and everything but the power adapter is weatherproof. Seems silly. Is there a way to make the power adapter weatherproof so that I can leave it installed year-round?

As many of you may have read, there is a case of two missing adopted kids in North Carolina, where remains have been found. The news has reported that their adoptive “mother” is Avantae Deven.
I’m a curious person and started digging up information on Avantae Deven when I first read the story in my news feed and could not believe what I was reading. It seemed like whomever this woman is must have be using an alias; Avantae Deven is not a name like Kim Jones or Mackenzie Smith.
The more I dug, the weirder it seemed to get. I found a property deed to a place in Sedona, Arizona, and figured out that whomever this Avantae person is, she at one point in time had owned a home together with someone named Nicole Adams. So I dug into who Nicole Adams was, and learned that she was the widow of a spiritual leader named Robert Adams. It appeared to me that there would be no way to identify who Avantae really was, unless I could also identify the true identity of Robert Adams.
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I've done investigative work for many years, including skip tracing. I can conclusively state that there was absolutely no person actually named Robert Adams born in New York State on January 21, 1928. This is demonstrated by the New York Birth Index. I have combed the census records for 1930, 1940, and 1950, and cross-checked them against multiple databases, and am confident that nobody with the birth name of Robert Adams was born anywhere in the United States on January 21, 1928.
Moreover, there was absolutely no person with the true name of Robert Adams who died anywhere at all in the United States, let alone Sedona, Arizona, on March 2, 1997. This is demonstrated by the Social Security Death Index.
I began this research largely by performing exhaustive searches on the known addresses that are associated with Robert, his wife Leonie (who used to use the alias Nicole), and Avantae Deven (who turns out to be their daughter Michelle who began using the alias Avantae in the mid-1990’s or so). Most of the addresses are PO boxes. Those that are PO boxes are all *private* PO boxes, not PO boxes that one can rent from the United States Postal Service. To me, that spoke volumes. The family were clearly using aliases.
As I explain further below, I eventually determined that “Robert Adams” was Robert Spiegel, born 21 January 1932 in New York. “Nicole Adams” was actually Aileen Beverly Leonie Maxwell, born February 2, 1929, in Jamaica. “Avantae Deven” is actually their daughter, Michelle K. Spiegel, born on October 1, 1960, in California.
One of Robert’s many false stories about Robert’s life that my research has refuted is Robert’s claim that his mother was Jewish and his father was Catholic. That was a lie. Both of his parents were Jewish. It’s also interesting that he claimed that he was “raised Catholic.” There is absolutely nothing to suggest that. His mother always, in New York, lived in Jewish neighborhoods. Moreover, as will be discussed below, his parents had a Jewish wedding. It’s also downright absurd that he would tell people that he was “half Jewish.” If your mother’s Jewish, you are Jewish, pure and simple. Even if Robert’s father had truly been Catholic (which he wasn’t; his name was Samuel Spiegel and he immigrated to America in 1907, lived with his Jewish, Yiddish-speaking cousins, and spoke Yiddish himself), Robert would have been Jewish because the status of being a Jew comes from the mother. Robert’s mother’s name was Fannie (nee Fleisfeder) Spiegel. Fannie’s parents were Itzik Fleisfeder and Esther Libke (nee Rifkin) Fleisfeder. Esther’s parents were Mendel Rifkin and Sarah whose maiden name is lost to time and the disappearance of the shtetls. Robert’s claim to having had a Catholic father was utterly false, but is part and parcel of his ongoing compulsive daily lying about anything and everything.
Here is the story.
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Kolomyia, formerly known as Kolomea, is a city currently located in the Western Ukraine.
On January 21, 1892 (the same year that Kolomea tallis¹ workers went on strike for better pay and working conditions), Kolomea resident Rachel Katz, wife of Abraham Spiegel, gave birth to a son, who was given the name Schmuel.
On the date that Schmuel Spiegel entered the world, Kolomea was ruled by the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy, and almost half of the city’s residents were Jewish.
In June of 1907, fifteen-year-old Schmuel² boarded the Zeeland, which sailed from Antwerp, Belgium, arriving at New York Harbor on June 18, 1907. The ship’s manifest states that Schmuel’s father had paid for his transport, and that Schmuel intended to reside with his father, Abe, in Brooklyn. Schmuel was granted entrance, and took up residence with his cousin Charles Fetner, who resided at 353 Myrtle Avenue, Brooklyn, in Apartment A with his wife Jennie and their baby daughter Ettie. The sparse record that exists suggests that although Schmuel’s father was, indeed, named Abraham, Abraham lived and died in Europe, without immigrating to America.
The 1910 census describes Samuel’s cousin Charles as a carpenter, who had been married to housewife Jennie for six years, and a father of three children-- Ettie age four, Nathan age two, and baby Jacob, who was not even a year old. Eighteen-year-old Samuel was identified by profession as a “Foreman Sailmaker” in an industry described as “pocket-books.”
Three and a half years after being granted admission, on a bitterly cold winter day, January 4, 1911, Schmuel (now employed as a pocket-book maker, and having Anglicized his name to Samuel) signed and submitted his declaration to become a United States citizen. He stated, in that declaration, that he was born on January 21, 1892.
By 1915, Samuel had left his cousin’s abode and was residing as a lodger in the home of a widow named Rose Hammer, who lived with her two adolescent sons, Meyer and Louis, at 531 E. 5^th Avenue; Samuel was now working as a “driver.”
Two years after the 1915 state census was taken, Samuel had moved back to Myrtle Avenue, but this time at building no. 849. On June 15, 2017, Samuel registered for the draft, and described himself as being a pocketbook maker, working for “A. Shoenfeld,” at 101 Crosby Street, New York. He was single. He stated, in his draft registration, that he was born on January 21, 1892.
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A woman named Fruma Fleisfeder was born in Beltz, Bessarabia, sometime between July 1, 1893, and 1901, to Itzik Fleisfeder and Esther Lieba Rifkin. Fruma (not living up to her pious given name) provided different dates and years of birth to different authorities on different occasions, making it impossible at this point in time to know her true position in the birth order of her family. Regardless, Fruma, who began using the name Fanny upon her entrance to the United States, did have three brothers and a sister who also came to America-- Louis Fleisfeder who was born April 10, 1890, Max Irving Fleisfeder who used October 10, 1892 as his birthdate, Hersch (later known as Harry), whose official birthdate was December 15, 1901, and Sylvia who was born in approximately 1906.
On December 1, 1919, Fruma arrived in New York Harbor on the ship La Touraine, declaring her intention, at entry, to become a United States Citizen. The ship’s manifest describes her as five feet five inches tall, with fair hair, blue eyes, and a fair complexion. The ship’s manifest states that she was, at that time, age 24. If that were correct, she would have been born in 1895.
Fruma (then going by Fanny) took up residence with her cousin Ethel (nee Ruchlin) and Ethel’s husband Samuel Steinberg, on 15^th Street, Brooklyn. Soon thereafter, Ethel gave birth to her first child, a daughter named Theresa. The 1920 census states that Fanny was Russian, didn’t speak English but, rather, spoke Hebrew, and worked as a milliner in a millinery store. The 1920 census also states that Fanny was age 25, which lines up with her being age 24 in the prior year’s ship manifest.
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Sam and Fanny married in Manhattan on January 24, 1925. Their marriage certificate (signed by each of them) identifies Sam as being age 32 (contradicting, by one year, his immigration records which would have placed him at age 33), and identifies Fanny as age 24, the same age that she had claimed to be six years prior, and also contradicting an immigration petition that she would file two decades in the future, which generally placed her birth year at the mid-point of 1893.
If Fanny’s immigration records (which included a petition with her signature on it) were correct, Fanny would also have been age 32 as of her marriage to Samuel, not age 24.
So did Fanny lie in her marriage certificate? Or did she lie in her immigration petition?
The marriage certificate identifies Sam as having been born in Kolomea, Austria, and his father being Abraham, and his mother being Rachel Katz. It identifies Fanny as having been born in Beltz, Russia, to a father named Isaac, and to a mother named Esther Rifkin.
The marriage certificate does not identify Fanny as having any profession, but identifies Sam as being a pocketbook maker.
Sam and Fannie were married at 125 E. 4^th Street, Manhattan, a six-story apartment building with retail units on the ground floor that is now an expensive co-op, with three-bedroom units selling for over $900,000. Present-day real estate advertisements alternatively state that the building was built in 1894, 1903, and 1905.
The first name of the rabbi who officiated was Harry. His surname starts with Reid, but the remaining letters of his signature are illegible. Rabbi Harry identified his residence as 232 Broome Street, which, at the time, was a four-story mixed use building that, among other things, housed Chevrah Ahavath Zedek Anshei Jaskinover.
Witnesses to the marriage were Mayer Budmon and Samuel Steinberg.
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Sam and Fanny’s existence was documented next in the 1925 New York State census by census. They were living at 205 S. 2^nd Street. Samuel was still working as a “pocketbook maker.” Fanny was identified as a “housewife.”
Fanny was identified as age 25. This was in accordance with her age as stated on her marriage certificate, but not in accordance with her immigration documents or the 1920 census.
Sam was identified as being age 28, which conflicted with all prior records.
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In 1930, the couple were again enumerated, this time in the Federal census. The enumerator, whose signature appears to be “Max Krahn” (or something like that) stated that he obtained the information on April 16, 1930.
Sam was identified as a “framer” of pocketbooks. He was identified as being 36 years of age, which conflicts by two years with the age that he provided to immigration authorities. Perhaps the enumerator was simply sloppy; Samuel was also incorrectly identified in the 1930 census as having been born in “Poland,” with parents who were both also born in “Poland,” notwithstanding other governmental records having identified him as being Austrian. The language he spoke? “Jewish,” according to the enumerator. Was that to mean Hebrew? Yiddish? Both?
Fannie was identified as age 30 (directly in conflict with the information she supplied in her immigration petition, which bears her signature) and as being “Russian,” with parents born in “Russia.” The 1930 census enumerator incorrectly wrote that her year of immigration was 1921. Fannie, too, was identified by the enumerator as speaking the “Jewish” language.
Although later records reflected that Sam and Fannie had a son named Irving who was born in 1926, Irving was not recorded in the 1930 census. Was he missed by the enumerator? Or was he a later-adopted son?
The couple also had a boarder, identified by the 1930 enumerator as one Esther “Larson,” age 40, born in Russia, and similarly a speaker of the “Jewish” language.
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The New York Birth Index identifies a baby boy, Robert Spiegel, as one of many babies having been born in the city on January 21, 1932.
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On May 21, 1936, Samuel committed suicide by hanging in the family residence, a tenement apartment located at 1168 Union Avenue, in the Bronx. Although, based upon the date of birth that Samuel used for official governmental purposes he was age 44, the death certificate stated that he was age 43.
Fannie engaged the Gordon Funeral Home to prepare him for burial.
Strangely, although Samuel’s headstone accurately identified him in Hebrew as Schmuel Spiegel, son of Avraham, it inexplicably incorrectly stated that he died at age 40.
Fannie of course knew her husband’s real age; both of them signed the marriage certificate that had Samuel’s correct age listed. Furthermore, Samuel had petitioned for citizenship in 1911, and stated that his date of birth was January 18, 1892.
Why would Fannie commission a headstone with a false age? Perhaps she, like her son, was a compulsive liar. Maybe that’s where Robert got it from.
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The 1940 census has Fannie (identified as age 38), Robert (identified as age 8), and Fannie’s son/Robert’s brother, Irving Spiegel, age 13, as living with Fannie’s 72-year-old mother, Esther Fleisfeder, at 1537 Fulton Avenue, in the Bronx. Fannie and Esther were identified as widows. Esther was identified as “U” (unable to work), while Fannie was identified as engaged in housework. No source of income for the family was identified.
No explanation is obvious regarding where Irving was living in the census taken a decade previously. Was he adopted?
There is no “Irving Spiegel” listed in the New York Birth Index for either 1926 or 1927. There is an “Irving Spiegal” listed, who was born April 29, 1926. But he is not Irving Spiegel.
I initially thought that perhaps Irving might be one of the unnamed Baby Boy Spiegels born in New York in 1926 or 1927, and that he left the hospital unnamed because his parents were waiting for his bris before naming him. However, Robert left the hospital with the name Robert. Why wait until the bris to name one child, but not the other?
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Slightly less than two years after she was enumerated in the 1940 census, Fannie’s mother Esther died, at home, at 1537 Fulton Avenue. The causes of death were “Coronary Thrombosis, Pulmonary Oedema Nephritis, Hypertension, Arteriosclerosis.” Esther left this world on February 6, 1942, the same day that the W. L. Steed was torpedoed, shelled and sunk less than a hundred nautical miles east of the mouth of Delaware River by a German submarine.
She was buried at Mount Moriah Cemetery in Fairview, New Jersey, the same cemetery where her son-in-law Samuel was interred.
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On November 12, 1943, Fannie, now residing at 1985 Bathgate Avenue, in the Bronx, petitioned for citizenship. She claimed, in that document bearing her signature, to be fifty years of age, meaning that if she was telling the truth, she would have been born in approximately 1893.
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On January 19, 1948, Robert (having assumed a false date of birth, that being January 18, 1931), enlisted in the New York National Guard. On paper, he had turned age 17 the day before his enlistment. In reality, he would be turning age 16 two days after his enlistment.
On December 9, 1949, Robert was discharged from the national guard, apparently for having been AWOL.
The discharge document identifies his address as being 1985 Bathgate Avenue, New York City.
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The 1950 census places Robert again at 1985 Bathgate Avenue, New York City. It correctly identifies him as age 18, and states that he worked as a shipping clerk for a newspaper company.
According to the 1950 census, Robert resided at the Bathgate Avenue address with his mother Fannie, who was purportedly still age 50 (seven years after she had previously claimed to immigration authorities to be age 50), and Robert’s brother Irving, age 24.
Irving was listed as unemployed and moreover, according to the census record, had not worked for the prior year. Fannie was employed full-time as a milliner in a hat factory.
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Military records reflect that Irving J. Spiegel, born in 1926 and a resident of 1985 Bathgate Avenue, who had completed two years of high school education, had flown bomber planes over Germany during the war. In his military documents, Irving described himself as single, with two dependents.
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On February 2, 1929, a baby girl given the name Aileen Beverly Leone Maxwell was born in Lucea, Hanover, Jamaica, to William Maxwell and Daisy (nee Tibbits) Maxwell. Her birth was registered by her parents.
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In 1954, Robert Spiegel and Aileen Maxwell were married in New York City. Their marriage license was given License No. 10284.
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The following year, the Kingston, Jamaica, Gleaner reported on June 6, 1955:
Miss Leonie Maxwell, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Maxwell, was married recently in New York City to Mr. Robert Spiegel of the U.S.A. Both the bride and groom are students at the New York Institute of Dietetics. The bride left the island nearly two years ago for New York. Her wedding gown was chantilly lace and nylon tulle. The bodice was fashioned with a wide, scalloped neckline and elbow-length sleeves. Her three tier skirt of chantilly lace was over pleated nylon tulle. Her fingertip-length veil was adorned with pearls.
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If the claim regarding the couple studying at the New York Institute of Dietetics was even true, their studies at this institution didn’t last long. In May of 1956, a number of advertisements bearing Robert’s photograph appeared in the Kingston, Jamaica Gleaner. The advertisements described Robert as a psychologist, author, lecturer, and “practitioner in auto suggestion,” and identified him as “Dr. J. Robert Spiegel.” Readers were invited to come meet Robert on May 21, 1956, at Record Plaza, where he would be autographing his “latest” “world-wide” 33 and 1/3 RPM record, “How to Stop Smoking in 7 days by Auto-Suggestion.”
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On May 1, 1959, three residents of 1985 Bathgate Avenue, Bronx, New York, came through customs, having returned from a trip to Jamaica. They identified themselves as “Robert D. Spiegel” born in New York (in addition to giving himself a false middle initial, Robert neglected to complete the I-94-A fully, specifically by leaving his birthdate blank), “Leonie A. Spiegel” born in Jamaica on February 2, 1929, and their minor daughter, and “Sharon S. Spiegel,” born in New York. Someone also neglected to fully complete Sharon’s I-94-A, specifically by leaving her birthdate blank.
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Leonie had taken Sharon to Jamaica two years earlier. There are no publicly available records pertaining to their outbound transport from the United States to Jamaica. There is, however, a record pertaining to their return to the United States. That publicly available record does not provide their address, but Sharon is identified as weighing 1 stone 5 pounds (a total of 19 pounds), and Leonie is identified as weighing six stone 5 pounds (89 pounds). Interestingly, Leonie used the name “Aileen Spiegel,” and the records assert that Aileen has no middle initial. Aileen was / is her true legal first name, but it is a lie to say that she has no middle initial.
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Almost two years later, on January 5, 1958, the Kingston, Jamaica Gleaner reported:
Staying at the Tamarind Hotel are Mr. and Mrs. Bob Spiegel and daughter Sharon of Miami, Florida. Mrs. Spiegel is the former Leonie Maxwell, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Maxwell of Lucea and has been in the United States for several years. A welcome party in their honour was given last Saturday night by Messers. Horrace, Ray, and Dennis Maxwell, brothers of Mrs. Spiegel. It was a very enjoyable affair.
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In 1963, roughly five years after their 1958 visit to Jamaica, Leonie petitioned for naturalization, in Louisiana. Although I am in possession of the index showing that she petitioned in 1963, I do not possess the petition itself. However, the fact that she petitioned for naturalization in Louisiana demonstrates that that at least she was residing in Louisiana at the time. Since she stated that she didn’t leave Robert’s side for over 40 years, presumably Robert, young Sharon, and also baby Michelle were living in Louisiana at that time.
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People who knew Robert personally relate that he stated that Leonie was a Cayman Island heiress. She wasn’t. Not only was she not born in the Cayman Islands, Leonie’s father’s estate was litigated (with the judge ruling against her) long before Robert started telling people that his wife was a Cayman Islands heiress.
Leonie’s father did leave an estate, but not to her. On November 9, 1967, the Gleaner reported that the Supreme Court had upheld the will of the late William Josiah Maxwell, the father of Horrace, Ray, Dennis, and Leonie, and the husband of Daisy Maxwell, who had contended that William’s signature was a forgery and that the person to whom his estate had been bequeathed had exercised undue influence. The court disagreed. The article reported:
The estate, which one of the executors described as “a sizeable one,” included 112 acres of land at Paradise and three houses at Lucea, Hanover.
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Robert apparently wasn’t banking on Leonie’s inheritance in any event. In May of 1966, advertisements appeared in the Houston Chronicle with Robert’s photo on them, selling a record that would purportedly assist people in stopping smoking in seven days. He identified himself as “Dr. J. Robert Spiegel.”
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On page 55 of the November 15, 1969, San Antonio, Texas Express and News, was an advertisement stating:
SCIENCE OF THE MIND
Dr. J. Robert Spiegel of Houston, director and founder of the Science of the Mind Foundation there, is conducting Sunday evening meetings at 7:30 p.m. in the Sheraton Inn, 1400 Austin Hwy.
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On page 4 of the July 10, 1970 edition of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram was a photograph of Robert, with a brief local news blurb:
GUEST – Dr. J Robert Spiegel of Houston, Science of Mind Foundation director, will speak at the 10:45 a.m. service tomorrow in First Church of Religious Science, 2001 6^th Ave. His subject is “What Religious Science Teaches.”
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On page 8 of the June 18, 1970 edition of the Houston Daily Cougar was this advertisement:
HOME OF UNIVERSAL LIFE
“Teaching Aquarian Meditation For The New Age
Meets Every Sunday, 11:00 A.M. At The World Trade Center Auditorium
Houston, Texas
DR. J. ROBERT SPIEGEL (BRAHMADANDA) DIRECTOR - FOUNDER
Aquarian Meditation Initiation for the first time offered through correspondence. For those sincere students wishing to bypass evolution and enter the 5th Kingdom. Initiation includes meditation technique, Mantra, how to "live” 24 hours a day, and much more. Write for application today:
P.O. Box 53328 Houston, Texas 052
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From the Galveston Daily News, May 02, 1971, Pg. 31:
AQUARIAN MEDITATION SOCIETY PRESENTS DR. J. ROBERT SPIEGEL AN AUTHOR, LECTURER, TEACHER OF YOGA & SELF DEVELOPMENT WILL SPEAK ON MAN, MIND & THE UNIVERSE WEDNESDAY, MAY 5th AT 7:30 P.M. IN THE RECREATION CENTER HARRIS COUNTY PARK, NASA RD. # 1 ALL WELCOME — DONATION $1.50
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The 1972 Spiritual Community Guide lists Robert twice, in the San Diego area. First, on page 117, using his alias “J. Robert Spiegel”:
THE TEMPLE OF METAPHYSICAL ABUNDANCE. J. Robert Spiegel, 1118 Torrey Pines Rd., 92037. Teaches yoga, nutrition, ESP, metaphysics, psychology, mind control
Second, on page 124, in which he, as one might have predicted, was masquerading as some sort of medical man or scholar:
"AQUARIAN MEDITATION SOCIETY, U. S. Grant Hotel, Attn: Dr. Robert Spiegel, 453-7588"
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Also in 1972, Volume 25 of San Diego Magazine published in November advertised gift certificates for the “Astrology Research Center.” “Give your loved one the gift of love. Only $50” said the advertisement. Where was this entity located? At 1118 Torrey Pines Road, the same address as Robert’s Temple of Metaphysical Abundance. The advertisement purported that person identified as “Lil Canaan” was the director. The telephone number was 459-6400.
In 2013, the San Diego Union Tribune published the obituary for Lillian Mulonas, who founded the La Jolla “Astrology Research Center.” At this point in time, unless Robert Adams’ only surviving daughter, Michelle/ Prentiss/ Avantae knows the answer and talks, we will not know what relationship, if any, existed between Robert’s Temple of Metaphysical Abundance and Lilian’s Astrology Research Center, both of which were located at 1118 Torrey Pines Road in 1972.
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From the July 12, 1973, San Diego Reader:
BRAHMADANDA FOUNDATION
“Teachings of the Cosmic Way” meets Sundays, 11:00 a.m., U.S. Grant Hotel, Crystal Room. Free admission, refreshments served. Call 453-7588 for more information.
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On page 51 of the June 29, 1974 edition of Phoenix’s Arizona Republic was the following advertisement:
Speaker from San Diego
Dr. J. Robert Spiegel from San Diego, a traveler and lecturer, will speak at 8 p.m., Friday in Universal Series Center, 4340 N. Seventh Ave., on the topic “Science of Being.”
He is the founder of the “Aquarian Meditation Society” in Jamaica and is founder and publisher of “Equinox,” a philosophical newspaper.
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The family (Adams or Spiegel, however one might want to refer to them) have resided in (that I know of) New York, Miami, Jamaica, Louisiana, La Jolla, Los Angeles, Houston, New Mexico, Hawaii, Las Vegas, Scottsdale, Sedona, and a number of cities in North Carolina.
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In at least the 1990’s, before he left for Sedona, Robert Adams used the address PO Box 7210, Jordan Avenue, D-30, Canoga Park, CA. He used that address on correspondence he wrote, and on at least one published document. Who else used that address? The data aggregators show that this address was also used by a Michelle K. Spiegel, and a person going by the name Leonie Maxwell. Michelle and Leonie also used other addresses associated with Robert, those being 1815 Willis Avenue Panorama City, and 21551 Burbank Boulevard, Woodland Hills.
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The California Birth Index shows that Michelle K. Spiegel was born on October 1, 1960, in Los Angeles County, to a mother with the maiden name Maxwell.
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In later life, Michelle used the addresses above that are associated with Robert and Leonie, as well as an address of 12004 Vanowen Street #14, North Hollywood. This is the same address at which Denniston Keith Maxwell, one of Leonie’s younger brothers, resided at, after his immigration to the United States. Denniston was one of Michelle’s uncles.
In a recent Facebook posting, Michelle/Avantae stated: “Never knew anything personal about said uncles, etc. Never asked, never cared.” Really? She shared an address with an uncle? Her uncle lived within a few minutes’ drive from her parents, and Michelle/Avantae never knew anything about him?
As an aside, Michelle/Avantae alleged (or admitted) that she “never cared” about anything personal regarding her uncles. If that is true, what does that tell us about Michelle/Avantae’s fundamental character? Antisocial? Psychopathic? Narcissistic in the extreme?
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On August 2, 1996, Michelle, going by the name Avantae E. Deven, married Tyson Ruben Alvarez in Las Vegas. The two had addresses in common in Arizona, Nevada, and Montana.
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Robert “Adams” died on or about March 2, 1997, in Sedona, Arizona.
Shortly after that, in the spring of 1997, “Nicole Adams” and “Avantae Deven” (both aliases; the correct legal names are Aileen Beverly Leonie Spiegel and Michelle K. Spiegel) purchased a home together in Sedona, on Navahopi Road. Shortly after the purchase, “Nicole” quit-claimed her portion to “Avantae.”
On July 17, 2001, Tyson, still married to “Avantae,” quit-claimed any interest in the Navahopi property to “Avantae,” and had the county recorder send the deed to “Avantae” in care of the Infinity Institute, at that time located at 9101 W. Sahara Ave. Suite 105 C29 (in other words, a private post box), in Las Vegas.
Avantae divorced Tyson in 2006. She had, by then, moved to North Carolina. She “served” Tyson via publication summons, claiming that she was unable to find him, despite his information being on multiple data aggregators.
You can go to various Facebook groups, and other sources, to pull up the documents that people have uncovered showing who is associated with the "Infinity Institute," and in what fashion, and also the addresses that they have used over the years.
In any event, this is the information regarding Robert that I think that people need to be aware of.
Why turn to a known liar and con man for spiritual guidance?
1A tallis is a prayer shawl.
2The ship’s manifest states that he was age 14, which conflicts by one year with what Samuel identified as his date of birth. These errors are not uncommon; his fare could have been purchased when he was age 14 and the records not updated.

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