The innovative autobin

If you are looking for a new-to-market, innovative and useful product within your home, the Autobin is it! The Autobin is a revolutionary automatic opening bin. It has a built in infrared sensor on the lid, so when you place you hand near the lid of the bin, it opens, and shuts again after about 8 seconds, allowing you to drop your rubbish into the bin without the need to touch it at all. However, if you need more time, say if your peeling eggs or emptying leftovers into the bin, you can override the automatic feature by pressing the open or close button on the front panel. If used in its automatic setting, the touchless Autobin is incredibly hygienic, and helps to prevent the spread of germs within the family household, hospitals, public toilets, offices, airports, care homes, or wherever you need a bin. Hospitals around China and Singapore are using the Autobin to help prevent the spread of the SARS virus and other superbugs. The Autobin is also great for both elderly and disabled, and children just love the function of the Autobin. It encourages children to put their rubbish into the bin, and it injects a bit of fun into an otherwise boring chore for them. The Stainless Steel Autobin ranges are very stylish and hygienic. They have a special coating inside the bin that prevents rusting, and they are very easy to clean inside and out. The Autobin runs on 4 x D batteries, which are usually supplied with the bin and can last between 6 and 12 months dependant on use. I have had my Autobin for over 12 months now and I haven’t replaced the batteries yet. I really would recommend the Autobin to anyone. The range includes 24 Litre, 32 Litre or 50 Litre bins, finished in either brushed satin stainless steel, or with a shiny mirror effect. I went for the 50 Litre Autobin, which looks fantastic in my kitchen.

Award winning quality tools and machinery

Regardless of whether your work is in wood or metal, setting up a workshop is an easy task when you have a supplier that can provide you with Jet power tools. These high quality woodworking and metalworking tools can be found at more than nine thousand dealers throughout the world. Jet power tools are made from a collection of the finest materials and technology world-wide. These tools are manufactured in places where engineers have fine-tuned the craft of tool making and designed the tools to support them. One of the qualities specific to Jet power tools is that they offer the accessories that are most useful to that particular tool. For instance, power saws are supported by accessories such as the Cyclone Dust Collector and Parallel clamps, which both make working with the saw easier and more efficient. These power tools are backed by warranties on each product and authorized distributors of jet tools also stand behind this warranty. All tools can be serviced and maintained at authorized jet service centers throughout the world. If you need a part, it will be available to you since replacement parts are well stocked with more than three million dollars in parts in stock at all times. Jet has receipt many prestigious awards within the power tool industry, but these awards are not won easily. All tools within a certain category, world-wide and at all price levels are ranked and compared. Woodworking magazines have consistently rated Jet tools as the finest power tools on the market. Not only does Jet offer the highest quality tools, it also offers the widest variety of power tools. Jet’s lathe, table saw and long bed jointer are some of the most convenient woodworking tools Jet manufactures. The portable horizontal band saw is one of the more special items from Jet. The lightweight series of saws are great for projects carried out in a location other than the workshop, since they are small yet capable of a lot. The blades can be adjusted from forty-five to sixty degree angles which are great for miter cuts. The bi-metal blade is durable and able to handle jobs normally requiring larger saws. Further, the optional floor stand instantly turns this saw into a multi-functional table saw. To get the most from Jet’s portable saws, tools and other machinery, Jet has created training videos presenting all of its top products. The training series is known as the “Shopclass Series.” WMH Tool Group or specific Jet product distributors should be able to provide you with a list of titles to help you complete any project.

The amazing health benefits of omega 3 fatty acids

Adding fats to your diet is essential if you want to live a healthy lifestyle that results in feeling and looking great, but it has to be the right kind of fats. Essential fatty acids fall within this category and are a crucially important addition to anyone's diet. Omega-3 essential fatty acids are made up of two components: DHA (which stands for docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). The best source of DHA and EPA are fish, especially salmon, seaweed, shellfish and algae. Furthermore, you can also get omega-3's from unrefined whole grains, dark & leafy greens and certain nuts and seeds like walnuts, flaxseeds and pumpkin seeds. This second group contains ALA (alpha linolenic acid) which your body then converts to EPA and DHA. Your best bet, however, is to get your omega-3's from seafood because your body converts only about 15 percent of dietary ALA to EPA and much less to DHA. What do you do if you don't like, and absolutely refuse to eat, seafood? Well, fortunately you can get omega-3's in capsule form. Not everyone's stomach can handle these capsules, but try them out for one month. It's an extremely convenient way to add omega-3's to your diet. When purchasing omega-3's in pill form, you'll notice some products also contain the other two components of essential fatty acids: omega-6 and omega-9. Stick with the products that contain only high amounts of omega-3's. Most people already get high amounts of these two fatty acids from their diet, and it's this lack of omega-3's that is potentially the culprit behind many health problems today. When adding omega-3's to your diet through pills, look for 1,000 mg pills and take 3-9 per day with food depending on your current health status and healthy living goals. Your physician should be able to consult with you about this. So now you have a good introduction into omega-3 fatty acids and the different ways to add them to your diet, but what are the health benefits associated with them? Plenty! Here's a quick list and you can also easily do some research by searching for "benefits of omega-3" in your favorite search engine. - stabilizes blood sugar levels and lowers insulin levels - boosts your immune system - encourages your body to burn fat and decreases appetite - improves your mood and attention span - reduce inflammation - improve your skin tone and radiance If the above doesn't get you excited about this proven, inexpensive and easy-to-get fatty acid supplement, then check your pulse! It's an addition to your diet that will help improve your health by leaps and bounds.

17 Investing for retirement

Investing for Retirement Retirement may be a long way off for you – or it might be right around the corner. No matter how near or far it is, you’ve absolutely got to start saving for it now. However, saving for retirement isn’t what it used to be with the increase in cost of living and the instability of social security. You have to invest for your retirement, as opposed to saving for it! Let’s start by taking a look at the retirement plan offered by your company. Once upon a time, these plans were quite sound. However, after the Enron upset and all that followed, people aren’t as secure in their company retirement plans anymore. If you choose not to invest in your company’s retirement plan, you do have other options. First, you can invest in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, certificates of deposit, and money market accounts. You do not have to state to anybody that the returns on these investments are to be used for retirement. Just simply let your money grow overtime, and when certain investments reach their maturity, reinvest them and continue to let your money grow. You can also open an Individual Retirement Account (IRA). IRA’s are quite popular because the money is not taxed until you withdraw the funds. You may also be able to deduct your IRA contributions from the taxes that you owe. An IRA can be opened at most banks. A ROTH IRA is a newer type of retirement account. With a Roth, you pay taxes on the money that you are investing in your account, but when you cash out, no federal taxes are owed. Roth IRA’s can also be opened at a financial institution. Another popular type of retirement account is the 401(k). 401(k’s) are typically offered through employers, but you may be able to open a 401(k) on your own. You should speak with a financial planner or accountant to help you with this. The Keogh plan is another type of IRA that is suitable for self employed people. Self-employed small business owners may also be interested in Simplified Employee Pension Plans (SEP). This is another type of Keogh plan that people typically find easier to administer than a regular Keogh plan. Whichever retirement investment you choose, just make sure you choose one! Again, do not depend on social security, company retirement plans, or even an inheritance that may or may not come through! Take care of your financial future by investing in it today. [Insert Your Resource Box Here] (Words: 413)

Peaches uniform print tops working hard so you do not have to

You work in the medical or healthcare industry; you give your all to your patients and those you come into contact with. You demand the best, in return, from everything you depend on to allow you the capabilities to have a worry free working experience. Peaches uniform print tops are just one way more and more medical or healthcare professionals are choosing to get the most so you can give your all. There are a copious number of ways that you can get that appealing, comfortable, and professional look from your work wear. Of course, you will discover that when you purchase Peaches uniform print tops, you will get all you need and more you may not have known you needed. Needless to say, people who choose this company for their work wear need discover a whole new aspect of purchasing appropriate and appealing work wear – yes you can have both appropriate and appealing! What are a few of the popular designs you can expect when you choose Peaches uniform print tops? Embellished empire waist blouse. This is simply amazing, and a popular commodity to healthcare or medical professionals demanding more. The high waistband fits right underneath the bust region, and gives the playful yet sassy look associated with an empire waist. You get stylish, comfortable, and professional – who could ask for more. The crossover blouses are an exceptional design and a favorite among many providers. The crossover blouse is just what it sounds like – a crossover design. This has one side of the blouse pulled to one side of the waist, and the other side of the blouse pulled across to the other side of the waist, and then it is fastened. This gives a comfortable feel and an awesome look. The button front print shirt is another popular and highly accessible design. Everyone loves a good button front design, and this is great for those with a physique allowing such designs. The button front means you can leave the buttons open, wear a solid shirt underneath, and viola! Instant jacket. The basic vee neck shirts are ever popular, and entirely capable of going with any other designs or solids. There are many print designs popular in this category, and there are various lengths making it easy to pick something you will enjoy and prefer as well as having work wear that will provide exceptional service and quality. The contemporary print shirts are just that – contemporary and traditional. You will find oodles of designs available, and the rounded neck is an all time favorite. The slight slits up the side allow you to move and this is one shirt that will flex when you need flexing. The short sleeves make this comfortable and perfect for any medical or healthcare facility. The affordable price means you will want one for everyday of the week! When you want the best, you need something that simply gives more. That is why Peaches uniform print tops are popular today. You get functionality, versatility, and affordability all in a package that is gorgeous and comfortable.

Maid of honer planning the bridal shower and beyond

Many women have been dreaming of their wedding day since they were little girls. A bride to be may have clear ideas of how she would like every detail of her wedding to be like. While it is important to know exactly what you want, it’s also important to realize that planning a wedding is a major responsibility and that it’s entirely too stressful for the bride to take care of every detail herself. Many brides have a difficult time relinquishing any responsibilities involved with planning her wedding for fear of losing control but it’s really in her best interests to learn to delegate responsibilities. The maid of honor, parents of the bride, parents of the groom and even the groom are probably all eager and willing to help out with the wedding plans and it is important to let them do so. The key to delegating responsibilities is to entrust others to take control of areas that you may not be especially particular about. For example the favors are a very important part of the wedding and the bride most likely wants to shop for and choose the favors herself. Hosting the bridal shower and the bachelorette party are two of the main responsibilities of the maid of honor. Since the maid of honor is probably one of the bride’s closest friends it stands to reason that the maid of honor is the ideal candidate to host these two gatherings. It is the maid of honor who will know best what type of party the bride is looking forward to, what she will enjoy and what types of gifts are most appropriate for the bride’s taste. The bridal shower and bachelorette party are also typically parts of the wedding preparations that the bride does not have any direct control over but she usually does not stress about these activities because she has faith that her maid of honor will hold her best interests in mind when planning these parties. The maid of honor also plays a large role in choosing dresses for the wedding. The maid of honor typically chooses her own dress for the wedding from a selection provided by the bride. Once the color and style of the maid of honor’s dress has been established, the maid of honor works closely with the bride to choose a style and color of dress for the bridesmaids that will look good on each of the bridesmaids and also complement the maid of honor’s dress. The maid of honor also plays a role in assisting the bride in choosing her own wedding dress. While there may be many other friends and relatives who shop with the bride for her dress, it is the opinion of the maid of honor that is generally most valued by the bride. The wedding day is a very busy day for a maid of honor. Although she has supported the bride throughout the planning process, her most important responsibilities take place on the actual wedding day. Besides simply walking down the aisle and standing on the altar beside her friend the most important roles that the maid of honor plays is to keep the bride calm and to handle and problems that may arise. Very few weddings actually go exactly as planned and it is the maid of honor’s job to make sure that small setbacks do not unnerve the bride. The maid of honor should also have a stash of emergency supplies on hand such as extra stockings, lipstick in the shade the bride is wearing, tissues, safety pins and hair pins. All of these items can come in handy if the bride has any trouble with her attire, hair or makeup. The maid of honor plays the important role of ensuring that the bride is looking her best even after hours of dancing and talking to friends and family members. Perhaps the most significant role that the maid of honor plays is to be a friend to the bride. The planning and preparations and the actual wedding itself can be very stressful and emotional for the bride. The one thing that the bride needs more than anything else at this time is someone to talk to who will understand her concerns and give her practical advice and this is the most important job of the maid of honor. The maid of honor plays a much more important role than just walking down the aisle before the bride and holding her flowers during the ceremony. Throughout the planning the maid of honor is involved every step of the way from choosing a dress and location to helping to wrap favors and set up for the reception. As the bride’s best friend the most important role the maid of honor can play is to be supportive and understanding of the bride.

Just what is a p. c. anyways

The question often arises - “Just what is a PC”? Many people would immediately answer that the term “P. C.” Stands for “Personal Computer”. In fact the term P. C. does stand for “Personal Computer”. Many, especially Apple Macintosh users, would define and argue that a personal computer as any small computer system purchased and used by an individual. Indeed one could make a point that many devices used by individuals today without any question or thought such as cellular phones and calculators are indeed dedicated personal computers as well. This is all true yet Cell phone, calculator owners or Apple Macintosh computer users would refer to their electronic device as a P. C. Calling something a P. C. implies that is something much more specific than just any personal computer or electronic tabulating or communications device. One thing that the term P. C. implies is that the P. C. had its origins in the first I. B.M. (International Business Machines) P. C. that was introduced to the computer market in the year of 1981. The computer market leader, the behemoth computer company I. B.M. did literally invent the P. C. I. B.M. literally invented the P. C. and set the standards and formats of the P. C. which lie with us even today. However the I. B.M. P. C. did not emerge from I. B.M. like the Ten Commandments from the Lord at Mount Sinai. The P. C. did evolve from precursors. Generally it is accepted that the direct historical origins of the P. C. began with MITS Altair first introduced in 1975 - 11 years earlier. These Altair kits were just that, nothing more than a kit of parts for the electronics enthusiast to assemble themselves. The Altair setup was a kit for hobbyists to assemble. Indeed the product was little more than a set of flashing lights. There was basically nothing in the way of product support. Many of the Altair kits were never even assembled. The significance of the I. B.M. project was that the computer market leader - the marketing behemoth of the time – I. B.M. both set the standards for a small Personal Computer and gave it stamp of approval. Previously IBM’s emphasis was on large mainframe computers. This is where I. B.M. emphasis and most importantly its profit lay. Some would even say the real purpose of the I. B.M. P. C. development project was not to create a Personal Computer product and set standards for the P. C. to come, but rather to prove that this rigid, top down management Style Company could devise a product in less than a year and Ѕ. Previously all IBM products were devised exclusively in house by IBM, with only IBM designing and manufacturing the products and with large profit margins. What made this situation different were the time frames. In order to complete the project the IBM team went outside of IBM, outsourcing in today’s terms. Off the shelf products, which met the I. B.M. PC specs and standards were utilized. Furthermore third party software – such as the operating system dos was utilized rather than proprietary IBM software. This was the first step towards the open source software of today. Previously the small business and computer software market was fragmented into many small different pieces. There may have been a market for software but for which computer type - Commodore, Apple, Sinclair etc etc etc. Because of the stamp of approval given by I. B.M. to personal computer and the resulting standardization and volumes of IBM PCs software developers could now write and sell product to a large identifiable market. The reality is that IBM clearly designed and created the first PC in 1981 and controlled the development and evolution of the PC standard for several years afterwards that IBM lost control of the PC standards by 1987 when they introduced their PS/2 line computer systems. The IBM PS/2 line was an attempt by IBM head office to reign in the computer market back to IBM with a somewhat proprietary IBM hardware computer rather than more open standards. Up until the point the industry had shared standards with I. B.M. The many companies that produced P. C.’s literally copied IBM’s systems right down to the chips, connections and shapes (form factors) of the computers, cases and circuit boards. For the most part what was in that I. BM? P. C. could be readily purchased as parts from 3rd party or even original manufacturers. Even though the prices for parts may have been higher than what I. B.M. paid when they bought hundreds of thousands there was a good profit margin and profits to be made even by small time computer assemblers. I. B.M., had stuck to their standard profit margins when releasing the I. B.M. PC. Even people like Michael Dell ( originator of the now market leader Dell Computers) , could start out screwing together and setting up computers in his college dorm room and still make a good profit while selling his clone computers at a hefty price reduction compared to the real I. B.M. P. Cs. IBM’s marketing response to the nattering disturbance of these small time P. C. clone makers was the message which was especially directed at the most lucrative business end of the market ‘You Can Never Go Wrong Purchasing I. B.M” What changed the equation was when IBM released this I. B.M. PS/2 line and tried to change the market back to its profitable control. By now there was more than enough inertia – both in the personal computer market, market size, profit, computer component suppliers and manufacturers. The die was set and the market could not even by swayed by the giant I. B.M. Corporation. The term “P. C” or “Personal Computers “ refers not to just any small personal computer but the computer models which a descendant and direct line from the original IBM Personal Computer which was developed and sold by I. B.M..

Winning the fight against fat

Life now, unlike those of our grandparents, is in for a fast ride. No room nor time for dilly-dallying. Delays do not have space in the agenda. Nowadays, unlike those they reminiscently call “the good ol' days,” people make it a point to savor every passing minute as if that would be their last. Advances science and technology, quite curiously, have not seemed to make life any easier. Time, so it seems, has even become a more precious and rare commodity. Another interesting outcome of 21st century life is the sheer abundance of food of all shapes, sizes, tastes, and packages. Gone are the days of manual labor to till, plant, water, and harvest food straight from the field. For most urban dwellers, farming for food is as outmoded as the rotary dial on a 50s production model telephone. Add to this the proliferation of a thousand and one fast food joints that churn out quick, fried food. Time pressure and deadlines have become the most reliable business allies of fast food companies. Indeed, the current work and personal lifestyles are so fast-paced that even our eating habits need to be adjusted. But against a backdrop of economic and corporate success...in the middle of so-called material prosperity...many things have been lost. The demands of 21st century life has left not a few thinking that they are truly in a “rat race.” Aside from having lesser time for family and friends, most people have also forgotten to take care what is called man's real treasure --- his health. The obesity rates in America are simply outstanding. Statistics indicate that there are now 58 million overweight people in America with 40 million considered to be obese. Another 3 million Americans are now classified as morbidly obese. trends the world dictates, which is fast-paced, many people rely on the instant answers to their weight dilemma – rapid weight loss pills. These fat-reducing agents suppress appetite, increase energy levels, reduce calories and burn body fats. Instead of giving time to go to the gym and do fat burning, practical workouts, which everybody doesn't have that luxury of time, people, with no alternative at hand, give in to the promises of these rapid weight loss pills. However, according to nutrition experts, there are numerous factors that can affect one's body mass and no rapid weight loss pills can guarantee a 100% efficiency. Heredity and family history play a pivotal role in this never ending crusade against obesity. Your metabolic rate, or how quickly you burn calories, can also have a major effect on your diet regimen. In this light, and other pressing concerns, a question resurfaces. What is the best weight loss pill, with all its limitations, in the market that would best suit my diet regimen? Accordingly, as similar to popular claims, proper exercise and observing proper diet are still the best way, or should we say, the best weight loss pills. Nature has its way of taking those bulk and bulges out of our system. In accordance to a recent study, our health will face greater risk if we dramatically loss weight. It is also stated in that study that appearance of gall stones were associated with rapid weight loss. Other complications which are associated with fast weight loss are very much fatal to one's health – like anorexia and bulimia, after a series of “self-starvation” episodes just for the sake of shedding another pound. Though dieting and diet pills are great deals to shed away pounds, medical experts still say that an individual, to achieve a healthy lifestyle, mustn't expect more than one to two pounds shed a week. As ever, there is no substitute for discipline. This is not the kind of pill that you administer orally then, like magic, the most coveted body figure will be ours. This “drug” needs to be consistently administered through one's system, slowly but surely, your system will eventually take in the “best weight loss pill.” In losing weight, there is the natural but safe way, and, also, the inorganic and“prone-to-risk” way. You may choose it take it easy, or have the “free fall” of your life that may endanger your health. So what will it be?

Be happy do your duty happily without attachment to its results

Happiness is not living in a fool’s paradise. It is not living in oneself oblivious of outside world. Life is not a bed of roses. Here one has to struggle and fight for justice. All our actions are with a view to some results. But often we fail to achieve that result. Sometime we get even opposite results than our expectations. For example, when we do a good turn to somebody and instead of being grateful to use the person accuses us. Failure in achieving our goal often leads us to unhappiness. What is the solution to it? Gita, the Hindu religious and philosophical text, which is perhaps the only religious book in the world that was delivered amidst battlefield, has a beautiful solution. It says, ‘You have right to action only, never to its results; never be attached to the results of your actions; but don’t take to inaction also.’— Gita (2.47) How beautiful and unique! In essence it teaches us that one should do one's duty without being unduly concerned about its results. It does not mean that one should do whatever comes to one's fancy without regard to its consequences. In fact, duty means prescribed duty. Its results cannot be undesirable. But the action may result in success or failure. We should not be unduly concerned with this. The cause of all unhappiness is thwarted desires. This does not teach us to be indifferent to the results of our actions and do them indifferently. It teaches us to do our best. If then the results are not as we had expected, we should have faith in God. Mind you, all this preaching about detachment from the results of one’s action is being taught at the battle field of Mahabharat when a great war is just to be fought. This war is between cousin brothers, and near relatives are fighting on the opposing sides. Arjun has said that he did not want to fight a war in which he has to kill not only near relatives but elders and teachers. Krishna is trying to tell him that it is his duty to fight. The reward is a great kingdom. Yet Krishna is talking of fighting a war at the cost of dying or killing one’s near and dear, and yet doing so without attachment to its results! Yet, if you come to think of it, it is the best theory about life. Attachment brings uncertainty, worry, and tension. In fact, this non-attachment to the results is very psychological too. Too much worry about the results of our actions affects the latter negatively. BE HAPPY!

Should government profits on realty be lowered

If you are planning to sell your house this spring, and are disheartened by the amount of brand new homes for sale in your area, take heart! It seems the Government slide off more of our bucks than we probably realize, but at least one of these taxes could work in your favor. A new report that has been commissioned by combined builder and broker mortgage associations has been be-wailing one big disadvantage when buying a new home. The Canadian Government will levy GST on a new home, whereas re-sale homes are exempt. On an average house price this can add an extra $20,000 into the outlay. This is $20,000 that is not included in the asking price, it is an add on. Since the GST was introduced in 1991, house prices have more than doubled, which means that the GST portion has doubled too. However, the house prices have jumped up and over the rebate ceiling and many people are not able to take advantage of the rebate anymore. This means that whereas, in 1991 when the bill was introduced, over 90% of house owners qualified for a full rebate, now only 52% qualify. The GST bill was supposed to be reviewed every two years, but the rates have never once been adjusted..... The Chairman of the Residential Construction Council of Ontario, has pointed out that the effective amount of GST paid per new home increased by 95% from 1991 to 2007. This is 2.5 times more than the rate of growth for the average weekly wage in Canada. All this is of interest to you if you are selling your home, as your home will not include the hefty GST bill at the end of the sale. Unfortunately, the report turned up one other deficiency which will affect your house sale, as well as also affecting the sale of new homes. The Canadian Association of Accredited Mortgage Professionals investigated the Home Buyers Plan which was introduced in 1992. Under this tax umbrella, first time buyers are allowed to withdraw up to $20,000 tax free from their Registered Retirement Savings Plan to be used as a down payment on a home. This is still in effect, but this amount has also not been increased since its initiation, while house prices have gone up by 104%! The Home Buyer's Plan has been renounced in the report, as 'becoming less effective as a means to support Canadians in their aspirations for home ownership'. Land transfer taxes are another lucrative area for government cream-offs. Toronto is just about to put theirs up at February 1st., making them the holder of the highest land transfer tax (LTT) in Canada. In Toronto the average house pays $8,300 in LTTs. Land Taxes have also increased in much larger percentages than the house prices that they are related to. In B. C. they rose by 179%, asking an average of nearly $7,000 per land transfer. Quebec increased their LTT by 136% to $1,800. per home. If anyone feels like taking up the challenge, the author of the report, Will Dunning, has stated that these increases fail to meet any definition of fairness. He says that they are a discriminatory tax and as such, have to justify the government's or society's at large expenses for the related service ( home buying). This, it does not do.

Oklahoma city schools find new leader

Oklahoma City Schools have ridden a roller coaster of ups and downs for the past decade. The district was labeled as “in need of improvement” under the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB). That federal mandate led to major overhauls which included a district improvement plan, a comprehensive local education plan (CLEP) and numerous initiatives by then superintendent Bob Moore. The changes have seen marked improvements. Following Moore’s resignation, interim superintendent Linda S. Brown and the Oklahoma City Schools’ Board instituted four major tools to help meet Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) as required by the NCLB act. These tools are: district restructuring, the Instructional Facilitator Program, the Organizational Health Inventory, and the High Performance Model. The major concern of Oklahoma City Schools during the previous academic year was finding someone capable of continuing the upward progress of these initiatives. That search came to an end in April when Oklahoma City Schools announced the selection of John Q. Porter as the next Superintendent of Schools. Porter is currently Deputy Superintendent of the highly ranked Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) in Rockville, Maryland. Porter is nationally recognized for his work in improving both accountability and academics in the MCPS. He also has had success in integrating technology with student learning. This is one of the reasons that Oklahoma City Schools think he might be the right man for the job. Oklahoma City Schools have received acclaim for its MAPS (Metropolitan Area Public Schools) for kids program. MAPS for kids is an “historic bond initiative” created in 2001 that has earmarked $512 million for new or renovated school buildings for all Oklahoma City Schools. Other funds in the initiative include $52 million for computer and technological resources for Oklahoma City Schools. The plan draws on sales tax increases over the coming years, as well as bond funds to feed the aggressive changes. Board members and administrators in the Oklahoma City Schools believe that Porter, coming from a district that manages an operating budget of $1.85 billion fairly successfully, will be able to use district funding to institute the needed AYP improvements. The nearly year long search for the new Oklahoma City Schools Superintendent seems to have board members breathing a sigh of relief. Oklahoma City Schools have gone over 10 months without a permanent leader in the superintendent’s position. Chairman of the Oklahoma City Schools Board, Cliff Hudson said, “While it has taken us some time to find a new leader, I can say it was worth the wait because we have found an exceptional person to lead the Oklahoma City Public Schools District.” While politics dictate that this sunny outlook will face challenges during the actual interactions over the next school year, the fact that Porter is positively embraced by most of the Oklahoma City Schools administrators is encouraging. Hudson implied that the community investment made by MAPS for kids was partly responsible for the high quality of applicants who applied for the superintendent’s position. Porter will officially assume the title of Oklahoma City Schools newest superintendent on July 1st.

10 Ways web site text can impact your reader s

The appearance of your web site text can actually increase or decrease your sales. The size, font, style and color of your text can easily affect your reader's buying decision. Below are ten points to consider when typing text on your web site. 1. Easy To Read - You want to make it easy for your visitors to read your text. You don't want to use a light colored text like yellow on a white background and you don't want to use dark blue text on a black back- ground. 2. Create A Mood - You want to use the color of your text to create a mood for the reader. If you want to create excitement, use some red text. If you want to create greed, use a some green text. Use colors that would put you in a mood to buy your product. 3. Grab Their Attention - You can grab your readers attention by using headlines. Make the headline more noticeable by using a different colored headline than your ad copy. This offsets the headline and pulls the reader into the rest of your ad copy. 4. Highlight Keywords - You can emphasize phrases and keywords that are important to your readers. For instance, use super, deluxe, fast, low price, free, new, etc. You could use bolding, underlining, italics, color changing, etc. 5. Sizing It Up - You don't want to use text that is too small or to large. You want to use larger text for your headlines and subheadings. You want to use smaller text for your ad copy. If your grandparents can't read it, it's too small. 6. Don't Use All CAPS!- You don't want to use all capital letters in your ad copy. It looks unprofessional and is hard to read. You may want to use all CAPS in your headlines to offset it. 7. Font Properly - You want to use a text font that relates to the product or services your selling. You don't want to use a comic type font when your selling business books. 8. Spacing Out - It's important to use spaces properly when typing your text. You should indent and bullet key benefits your product or service will give the reader. Your headlines, subheadings, sentences and paragraphs should be consistently spaced throughout your web site. 9. I Need Sunglasses - Don't use all bright text colors and backgrounds on your web site. It will make your text hard to read and actually bother your readers' eyes to the point they just decide to leave your site. 10. Check The Readability - It's important to check your spelling and grammar before you upload your web page. When writing an ad copy you're allowed to break some of those grammar rules to get your point across. ----

Get a massage in sedona

Have you received a massage in Sedona, Arizona? If you haven’t done it already you should put it on your list of things to do. Sedona has some of the most beautiful scenery in the United States and is considered one of the most serene and spiritual places to live or to visit. So, whether you go to Sedona for a business trip, an unforgettable vacation, or a family relocation you might find you want to receive massage therapy. Massage in Sedona is widely available from independent Certified Massage Therapists, Licensed Massage Establishments, and a growing number of Day Spas. Massage in Sedona is an experience that is memorable and enjoyable and something you’ll want to repeat over and over. Whether your goal is to completely relax with a slow, soothing massage, relieve muscular pain and chronic tension, have a more comfortable pregnancy, or improve your sports performance Massage Therapists in Sedona can help you achieve your goals. In fact there are several types of Massage in Sedona. The most commonly offered massage techniques in Sedona are: Swedish Massage - relaxing massage using gliding strokes, kneading, friction, and striking strokes along with gentle stretching and rocking. Deep Tissue Massage - massage of the deeper musculature and connective tissue to release chronic tension and pain. It’s often a firmer massage that is appreciated by experienced clients. Sports Massage - massage to assist the athlete in preparing for and recovering from sports events. Hot Stone Massage - perhaps the most relaxing and luxurious massages you can get. Heated stones seemingly melt away stress and tension. Trigger Point Therapy - targeted pain relief using specific pressure to release painful knots in muscles. Neuromuscular Therapy - advanced pain relief targeting specific trigger points in muscles, tendons, and attachment sites. Prenatal/Pregnancy Massage - massage for the mother-to-be helping her to decrease pain and discomfort throughout the pregnancy. Lymphatic Drainage Massage - specifically used for decreasing swelling and edema as well as improving the circulation of the body’s lymph. It’s detoxifying and some think it improves the immune system too. However, in addition to the more commonly practiced massage techniques your Sedona based Massage Therapist might also practice some other well known massage therapy techniques: Myofascial Release Cupping Massage Medical Massage Acupressure Shiatsu Ortho-Bionomy Aromatherapy Massage You might even want to try a special treat when you get a massage in Sedona like Couple's Massage where a couple can receive their massage together in the same massage room with two massage therapists. During the couples massage each member of the couple can choose to receive a different massage from that of their partner. Or, for the true massage therapy enthusiast some Licensed Massage Establishments and Day Spas offer Four Hand Massage, or Tandem Massage, where you can be massaged by two massage therapists at the same time. Massage in Sedona is also very convenient to receive. Massage in Sedona is available on an incall basis at a Massage Therapist's office, salon, or clinic, in a Licensed Massage Establishment, or in one of many conveniently located Day Spas. Massage in Sedona is also available on an outcall basis in your Sedona area home, office, or hotel. No matter where you are in Sedona a great massage is just minutes away. So what's stopping you? Massage in Sedona is relaxing, stress reducing, pain relieving, and performance improving so get one today...you'll be glad you did!

Pet rat care the top 10 mistakes of new rat owners

Being a dedicated rat owner can be very rewarding. All it takes is a little research and a lot of preparation. If you're getting ready to adopt a rat as a cherished pet, there are some pitfalls that you should be aware of beforehand. Here are 10 of the most common pet rat care mistakes that first-time rattie owners make: 1. Getting only one rat. A person might think that getting two rats is too much extra work... or that a pet rat will bond with a human owner more readily if there is no other rat around to become friends with. The truth is that rats are highly social creatures. They need to have other rat-friends to play with and to "talk" to. Furthermore, taking care of two rats is not much more work than caring for one. 2. Getting the wrong kind of bedding. Sometimes a rat owner will want to cut corners and use newspaper or cheap bedding. Rats are very sensitive to the chemicals in the ink and cheap bedding can often have dusty particles that will irritate their lungs. If you see a red discharge coming from their noses, chances are, there is an irritant present in the air. Pine wood chips are not safe! 3. Feeding the rats an imbalanced diet. No, it's not cute how your furry friends can eat almost as much pizza as you. Caring for pet rats means feeding them healthy food. Look, there's no excuse. Fruits and veggies are not expensive items to buy; also, be sure they get their share of lab blocks, seeds, and a daily dab of a vitamin supplement. 4. Not cleaning the cage often or thoroughly enough. Their urine will decompose and produce ammonia. This, along with the decomposing bedding can irritate their lungs. Yes, it's a pain to do. But putting up with the unpleasant aspects will only help you to appreciate them more. Clean and disinfect with bleach-water once a week, or up to two weeks, maximum. 5. Not taking them out to play often enough. Rats will eventually get depressed if they remain cooped up inside their limited cage environment. If you make play time fun and challenging, you will be looking forward to the bonding time as well! 6. Deciding to breed for the wrong reasons. Breeding responsibly is not a lucrative or easy hobby to get into, especially at the beginning. Don't get stuck with a litter of rats that wind up becoming snake-food at a pet store. Instead, try investing some time volunteering for or starting an apprenticeship with a breeder. 7. Not giving them enough toys. If you bore your rats, they will become boring. Rats not only love to play, explore and solve problems, but they actually need to be constantly stimulated by a challenging learning environment. Provide them with a variety of toys and games and switch things around constantly. They'll love you for it! 8. Entering them into a fancy rat show before researching it. You may love your rats and think they are just the most perfect rats you have ever seen, but the American Fancy Rat and Mouse Association (AFRMA) has very strict standards and those judges have seen hundreds--if not thousands--of rats in their day. Before deciding to enter your rats into a show, visit one first. Interview a handful of judges and learn exactly what makes a rat top in its class. Then decide. 9. Procrastinating on researching a qualified vet for small animals. The moment one of your rats becomes ill, you will want to have the phone number of a good vet handy. Not all vets will treat small animals or rats. Do the searching beforehand and spare yourself the frustration and desperation an emergency situation can sometimes bring about. 10. Underestimating the importance of belonging to a rat club or rat society. Belonging to a rat club or rat society such as AFRMA will go a long way in getting your key rat questions answered. Moreover, doing so will connect you with a community of rat lovers who are likely to want to share what they know for the sake of advancing the hobby as a whole.

Top 5 19 lcd monitors on the market

When you are considering a 19” LCD monitor for your computer, you want to make sure you get the best. When looking at the top 5 19” monitors on the market, it is important to find those that are quick and helpful in terms of office production. Price, function, and a number of other factors can influence which monitors are in the top 5, but this list will at least give you a starting point. The first of the top 5 19” LCD monitors on the market is the LG Electronics Flatron L1950B. With a resolution of 1280 by 1024 and several available adjustments, this is a great monitor for anyway. It has an easy to use height adjustment feature to keep it at eye level as you work. Also, this very slim and flat monitor gives a great looking image that is easy on the eyes and helps prevent fatigue. The second LCD flat screen monitor to make its way into the top five is the Dell UltraSharp 1905FP. This monitor comes in with a resolution of 1280 by 1024 with a number of available adjustments to that you can have it just how you like it. It also includes three 2.0 USB ports and a full range of adjustments of the physical settings. It is easy to use and offers a great picture. Third on the top 5 19” LCD monitors on the market is the ViewSonic VP930b. With a good resolution, again, at 1280 by 1024, the ViewSonic offers smooth and easy to use physical adjustments that allow you to comfortable with the monitor. The monitor even has a very nice stable stand that keeps it in place and makes the physical adjustments easier. The fourth on the list ist he NEC MultiSync 90GX2. The resolution on this one is, like with most of these, 1280 by 102. The adjustment is limited to tilt and swivel, but in most cases the height is actually pretty good. The screen is a glossy design that makes text easy to read and contrast prime. Scrolling through screen menus is easy so that picture adjustment is simple and quick for anyone. Finally, in the top 5 19” LCD monitors on the market is the Hyundai ImageQuest Q90U. Limited in adjustment to just tilt, the resolution is the same as all the rest at 1280 by 1024. There are two easy to use and reach USB 2.0 ports on this model. Three is a low response time to the monitor, but it does not really cause any problems in general use. Overall, it is still a strong monitor that you can get for about 40% less than the other models on the list. Overall, looking at the top 5 19” LCD monitors on the market can help you decide what will work best for you. In your home office, at work, or for fun these monitors are going to be easier on your eyes and better for space management. You will be glad you took the time to equip yourself with a flat screen LCD.

What should i look for when i purchase a new home

Good question! It’s a good idea to think about what you should look for when you purchase a new home before you actually sign on the dotted line and pay. Buying a new home can be a rewarding experience if you do it right. Just make sure you protect yourself from any surprises down the line. You want to know some of the ways you can? Well, you may want to consider these tips before purchasing your new home: 1) Make sure you select a reputable builder when you purchase your new home! Do your research on the builder to find out about their past work. You can find out the type of work a builder has previously done by getting the names of the home communities established by the builder. Go to those particular communities and ask some of the homeowners if they have had any problems with that particular builder. You can also ask the homeowners what they like about their home builder. 2) Consider getting a home inspection done on your new home by hiring your own independent home inspector. You can find a certified home inspector via the American Society of Home Inspectors(ASHI) ashi. org. If the builder of the new home you’re considering to purchase won’t allow an inspection, then you may want to consider moving on to another home builder that will allow you to do this. 3) Investigate and research any easements that may be on the property you’re considering to purchase. This will save you headaches later on! Make sure the easements don’t affect your enjoyment of your property in the future. 4) Consider having a real estate attorney look over the real estate documents for your new home purchase. Especially your closing purchase documents before you sign them at closing. 5) Purchase title insurance! This will protect you when you purchase your home. Title insurance will provide you with protection if someone challenges you about being the property owner of your new home. 6) You may want to consider not purchasing your first new home in a new community that has been developed. Why should you do this you say? Well, for one thing, it’s a test run and all of the kinks may not be worked out yet. You may get stuck with a lemon! It might be better for you to wait until the builder has developed more communities in order for you to consider making a new home purchase. 7) Find out how long it will take you to travel from your home to work. Can you deal with your commute? If so, that’s great! If not, this may end your quest with that particular builder to purchase a new home with them. Well, get the idea why it’s so important to think about certain things before you consider a new home purchase? Good, then start looking for your new home now with these tips and information to assist you when you’re in the process of considering making your new home purchase.

Canoe buying guide

The origin of canoes is as old as civilization itself. The American aborigines were said to be one of the early users of canoes. They use tree trunks as the main part of the canoe or the hull, fastened with sap, and stitched with tree roots. These primitive types of canoes were popularly known as dugout canoes. A canoe is a human - operated miniature boat. This means that humans need to exert extra effort in paddling to travel using the canoe. Unlike rowing, paddling requires the paddlers to look towards the course of travel. Paddlers are propped up on either side of the hull. Rowing, on the other hand, requires the rowers to face on the opposite direction of the course of travel. Canoes were primarily used as a means of transportation. Of course, as modern technology has developed the varieties of substances to be used in making canoes, their functions had evolved as well. Today, canoes are also used in competitions and recreational activities. Canoes can offer a great deal of entertaining and relaxing time with your family. Best of all, you can even get close to nature by paddling through the tranquil waters of the area and observe the wilderness on its natural state. As much as canoes seem to be the easiest water equipment in the world, buying them may not look so simple. Remember, canoes may give you various benefits depending on their particular functions. For instance, an aluminum canoe may be more durable than canvas canoe. Hence, aluminum canoes are for rough water adventures. Given all that, it is imperative that you know how to choose the kind of canoe that will best work for you. Go after these principles in buying canoes to find out that type works best for you. 1. Know what you want Before, canoes were primarily made and used as a means of transportation. Today, canoes are typically classified according to the way people want to make use of them. For this reason, buying a canoe can be very tricky. If you are not yet sure why you want to buy a canoe, it is best to forego purchasing one first. You may not be aware of it but buying a canoe without a clear plan of what you want to do will only bring cause you problems. For instance, if you are planning to take your family on a weekend nature trip across the lake, it is best to buy a canoe made of canvas. This is perfect for shallow, calm waters in the lake. With this kind of canoe, you and your family will surely enjoy the breathtaking view of the rough country. 2. Be wary of sizes, shapes, and length Canoe dimensions can greatly influence the performance and function of a particular type of canoe. For example, a longer canoe can travel faster than the shorter ones. Flat - bottomed canoes provide exceptional primary strength and steadiness. Also, of course, bigger canoes can accommodate more weight compared to the regular ones. So if you need a particular feature, it is best to consider the dimensions of your canoe and see for yourself if it will best work for you. 3. Never buy a canoe with a keel It does not necessarily mean that keels are bad. The only reason is that keels will reduce the canoes capability to speedily maneuver the canoe to stay away from barriers or hurdles. That is why, it is better to use keeled canoes on open water or lake trips. So the next time you want to buy a canoe, it is best that you buy a canoe without a keel to facilitate manual control. 4. Do not believe on load amount as advertised This does not necessarily mean that there is no truth on the advertisements. What is being pointed out is that these ads do not stand for anything of high - value because most of the weight is being held in the center. When buying a canoe, just always remember that canoes with broader edges can float better while canoes with tapered ends are quicker. 5. Think about the depth of a canoe The usual and ideal depth for a typical canoe is 12 inches, that is, for the simplest form of a canoe. Of course, depth may still vary depending on the desires of the users. For instance, paddlers or a camper may desire for an improved feature. Hence, they can either wait for the next kind of canoe available. Indeed, canoe buying is not an easy job, but it is never difficult either. You only have to consider these simple guidelines in buying canoes to get the best buys ever, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Digital rights management software piracy is killing the industry

What would you say if you were told that you were losing thousands upon thousands of dollars on a piece of software that you have created and are trying to make a profit off of? Well, it is the truth. Software piracy is a problem that has brought the software industry to a near standstill, costing the industry billions of dollars each and every year in lost revenue, not to mention thousands upon thousands of software and IT jobs in the United States. Something must be done about the issue of software piracy but what? Copyright infringement is a faceless crime; the victim is often the hard working programmer but the assailant could be anybody; you could look them in the face and not know who they are. For this reason, it is important to protect your digital media as much as you possibly can because of all intellectual property is it at the most risk of infringement by others, and those who can take advantage of a weak security process or a hole in programming certainly will. The world is full of those who want to profit from something that they had no part in. It has been going on since the beginning of time and the only difference now is that technology has allowed people to take advantage of the work of others like never before, as well as giving them an even more efficient means of distributing and even profiting from the work of others. It seems you don't have to have a software programming degree or experience to make money selling computer programs or similar digital media; all you have to do is be the proud owner of a CD or DVD burner and maybe even a few good hacking skills. Good digital rights management techniques are necessary now more than ever before. Unfortunately it is another investment in its own but there are services out there that are making good digital rights management services more and more affordable, just to offset the enormous killing that software piracy is causing to the industry. If you have created a software program, take the necessary steps to prevent it form being copied or utilized by others to make a profit. A computer program or video game, picture or e-book is just as important as a painting or novel and it is just as wrong to sell and distribute one as the other. Without having appropriate digital rights management procedures in place you are leaving yourself open to an unnamed amount of money in profits. Do the right thing and protect your digital property somehow or another. Think of all of the digital media that flows through the internet, such as e-books, copyrighted images, articles, software, and other things. The internet is not as secure as it could and probably should be, and if you are one of those people who are using the computer and Internet to your advantage to gain a skill and gain something monetary from it, you are more at risk than ever before. Just why is that, you ask? It is rather simple. As technology advances and gives you the tools and capabilities necessary to create innovative products it also gives other people out there license to take it and that can fast defeat the purpose of creating software to sell for profit in the first place. If you were creating something for fair use and share with other people, digital rights management would not be important but in the case that you are creating something to make available to customers for a price, digital rights management is an important thing to take into consideration. For every person that takes your software or product and comes by it illegally or immorally, they are bound to share it with at least one person. That not only takes out of your pocket what you are due by their having possession of your product but it also doubles that due to their likelihood to share it with another person. Luckily, there are services out there for people who do not have their own method of digital rights management in place. Service like Lock It Now! And Software Defender provides photographers, e-book creators and software entrepreneurs the opportunity to protect their product with an automated registration verification system, protecting you against repeat 'refunders' (those who order your product just to copy it and request a refund of their money, thereby having obtained your product for free). Copyright infringement and software piracy are as real as any computer program, e-book or digital image out there so it is important to make sure that you take the necessary steps to protect your intellectual property from people who care not to pay for the things in life that they want.

Advertising your home business the inexpensive way

Have you heard the expression: “You have to spend money to make money!”? Anyone who has ever owned a business knows that this saying is true. If you are going to create a work from home venture, you will confront this concept while you are developing your strategy for home business success. Advertising will be one of the major financial challenges that you will encounter. Marketing is the most important investment that you will experience on the road to prosperity for your home based business. You will be devoting your time, your effort and your capital to creating a successful advertising campaign. There will be expenses because your potential customers will not find you unless you advertise. If your marketing budget is small you need to discover inexpensive methods for attracting people to your home business. Is there any way that you can advertise without getting a second mortgage on your home? Yes! There are a variety of methods for introducing your home business to potential customers without having to spend a large amount of money. These ideas can be implemented at a small cost if you tackle them one at a time. Depending on your time and budget, pick the best one that will work for you and go with it. Be creative and see if you can come up with other ideas. ---> Business Cards ---> Bumper Stickers ---> T-Shirts ---> Free Newspaper Ads ---> Flyers ---> Word Of Mouth 1) Business Cards Go down to your local office supply store and invest a few dollars in some blank business cards. Return home, fire up your computer, open Microsoft Paint and create your first advertising tool. Include your home business name, your website address and your contact information. Design a catchy logo for your card. Give them out to everyone you know. Encourage your friends and relatives to pass them out as well. Attach one to all of your correspondence. Be creative and consider other possibilities for circulating your business cards. 2) Bumper Stickers Go down to your local print store and get an estimate for designing and printing bumper stickers. They are relatively inexpensive. If the cost is too high, create your own through Microsoft Paint or, if you can afford it, invest in a good software program for developing graphics and text. Include your work from home business name and website address. After you're done, find a printer who will produce your stickers at a cost you can afford (any friends or family who know someone?). When you have your bumper stickers in hand pass them out to everyone. Put the first one on your own car. 3) T-Shirts Create a T-shirt that has your home business name and your website address. If you cannot afford to have it done, develop your own design, print it out on your computer, buy a T-shirt and iron it on. If you have the extra money, create a few for family and friends. Wear your T-shirt everywhere, particularly where you might find your target audience. 4) Free Newspaper Ads Think about the free publications (Nickel Ads, IGA Shopper etc.) that you find at your local supermarkets, convenience stores or fast food restaurants. Get about three of these newspapers and take them home. Sit down and create an advertisement that describes your home business, gives your website address and mentions your contact information. Thumb through these periodicals and look for a section or heading about placing an ad and follow their directions. 5) Flyers Turn on your computer and go into Microsoft Works (or your graphics and text software). Using their templates, create a flyer that has all the essential information about your work from home business. Print out as many as you need and start distributing them. Disperse them in your neighborhood, retail establishments, grocery stores, restaurants, local colleges or anywhere else that you can (legally) advertise your home based business. 6) Word Of Mouth The most powerful (and least expensive) form of advertising is word of mouth. This idea can be better developed after you get the ball rolling for your home business but, it will be the best and cheapest way to market your work from home venture. Once your reputation is established for providing excellent customer service your buyers will spread the good news to friends and family. Provide first rate service to your clients and your free publicity will develop. Making money online requires a commitment of time, effort and capital for your work from home venture to be successful. You will need to invest your money on advertising for your home business. If your budget is small, these ideas will help elevate your presence for a modest amount. Focus on one or two concepts that will fit into your time, expenses and comfort zone or develop other ideas. The success of your online home enterprise is directly related to the effort that you deliver and the patience that you exhibit. On a small budget, the results may take longer but they will come. “Nothing can be done except little by little.”

Alternatives in blogging a blog design solution

When internet web site owners devise a blog design solution for their online marketing schemes, they often disregard a lesser known avenue for producing the kind of results that bring enthusiastic visitors. Blogging on places such as MySpace, Facebook, and Craigslist can provide a continuous stream of happy customers that you have specifically targeted. The most popular and well known blogging sites Wordpress and Blogger will obviously yield a vast number of potential customers, but the likelihood of them being as focused as the aforementioned clientele is not a forgone conclusion. Most statistical internet analyses indicates that blogging sections on MySpace, Facebook, and Craigslist contribute a much more qualitative base of visitors to a uniquely targeted web site. Having a blog design solution that is practical and personable is certainly one part of the internet marketing arsenal for all web site owners. Indeed, any successful online business employs the use of a blog. Craigslist is one such place where a blog design solution actually works to direct designated individuals to your web site. The popular social site was created by a person (yes, his real name is Craig) who sought to provide a social gathering place on the internet for anyone who seeks to find like minded friends and acquaintances of various interests. By having at least one or more entries each day on your blog, Craigslist members who have an interest in your site will flock to your business in countless volumes. Blogging at similar sites like MySpace and Facebook offer similar advantages. Another online social community that has been recently established is located at Photobucket and it's quickly becoming a popular destination for internet surfers. A photobucket blog is an exciting untapped resource for internet marketers who wish to position themselves in a niche that has little or no competition. Any successful blog design solution will endeavor to utilize strategies that are aimed at a particularized segment of customers, especially when there is limited or no direct competition. This rapidly expanding photography site offers a distinct advantage as web site owners constantly yearn for and seek out more visitors. One additional benefit that these various blogging sites offer involves a monetary objective. Controlling the budget is always a consideration and targeting customers at these sites costs absolutely nothing.

Discover how history of music will make your music more luminous

When I first started studying the history of music, I did not know what I was getting into. I had a notion that music history was somewhat of a trivial pursuit... Honestly, I only followed my history of classical music course because I needed the credits. I am sure some of you out there can relate to that. I did not know how fully interesting music history could be. You see, in our culture many of us do not really study to comprehend music. For much of the world, music is a language, but for us it is a thing that we consumed passively. When I started to study about the history of Western music, however, it changed all that for me. I have had some experience using musical instruments, but I have never mastered one enough to really comprehend what music is all about. This class showed me. When a lot of us think about the history of music, it means the history of rock music. We presume that the history is plain because the music is plain. In fact, neither is the case. The history of music, whether you're talking about classical music, rock music, jazz music, or any other kind, is always complex. New chord structures are set up carrying with them new forms of understanding humanity. New rhythmic patterns are established, carrying with them new methods of understanding history. And music shows all of it. History of music nowadays is even more interesting. Even when the class was ended, I could not stop learning about the history of music. It had stimulated my appetite, and I wanted more. I acquired all the music history volumes that I could discover. I even started to examine forms of music that had not interested me before in the hopes of improving my musical knowledge further. When I was in school studying toward a very different subject - a degree in engineering - I had thought about giving it up and going back to obtain a degree in musicology. That is how much I am fascinated by the subject. If you have never taken a course in the history of music, you don't know what you are missing out on. You do not miss what you don't know about in a way but then again... Believe me the CDs will never sound the same to you again. Actually not only the Cds but any type of media you are or will be using to play your favorite music. The whole thing will seem much more rich, much more luminous, and much more important. A new song can reflect a new way of being, and a new way of imagining existence in the world. This is what learning about the history of music means to many of us. Just try it and you will see. Listening to music now has a whole new meaning. You can imagine all the different types of musical patterns there are in the world. It make your musical mind really expand.

Blackjack learn how to become a champion

: Learn How to Play and Win Blackjack after practicing some basic steps that can be learn easily. Blackjack is one of the more easier card games that you will come across, and its basic concept is simple: get 21 as the sum of your cards or get as close to 21 but higher than the sum of your opponent's cards. 1) Do not try and reach 21. Yes. Even though blackjack is also commonly called 21, trying to reach 21 with every hand is an amateurish move. You will, most certainly, lose the hand. Statistical research conducted has shown that the odds of reaching 21 is lesser than the odds of getting more than 21. 2) Try and Beat the Dealer. Since blackjack is a one on one battle: you versus the dealer, focus on beating the dealer. Instead of trying to get 21, try to guess what hand the dealer will receive and accordingly play your hand. Remember that the dealer at a regular casino or even at an online casino has to stop taking more cards if the cards on the table add up to 17. But if their cards add up to 16 or any number less, they will have to take another card. 3) Look at the dealer's card facing up. The only way to play is to look at the dealer's card facing up. If it is a low card like a two or anything up to a 6 or 7, try and get a high number combination. If it’s a 9 or 10, the odds are high that he has a 10 underneath or at least he will be forced to take another card. So, reach anything up to 20 or 21, but its better to even stop at a 18 or 19 and hope they will over-run the sum of 21. How Blackjack is Played at a Casino: 1) Place your bet on the table. Each blackjack table has a set beginning bet and this ranges from a dollar to ten or twenty for the high-rollers crowd. This is the amount of chips you will have to put down, and this signals to the dealer that you are taking part in the next round. 2) You will get a card. The dealer then deals a card to you and all the other players who have also placed a bet down. 3) The dealer places a face-up card in front. This is one of the cards of the dealer, and since its facing up, all the players have a chance to judge the outcome of his cards. 4) The dealer deals the second card. The dealer, then, deals you and all the players an additional card. This is the time to have a look at them and at the dealer's card and decide whether you wish to get another card. 5) The dealer asks. The dealer now turns to each player and asks them if they wish to receive another card. If you wish it, the dealer will give you a card. Then, the dealer will ask you again. Note that the dealer will be with you until you decide that you do not want to receive any more cards. Then, the dealer moves on to the next player, then, the next, and so on. 6) The dealer starts playing. Only when all the players have said that they do not want any more cards, does the dealer start playing. He takes cards until he has reached 17 or above. Then, he has to stop. 7) The dealer opens the cards. When he's done, the dealer first reveals all his cards. Then, he moves from one player to the other opening their cards. After revealing each player's hands, the dealer pays out the bet or takes the bet away according to who has won and who has lost.

World auto production forecast

: Predicting the future is a risky proposition often filled with guesstimates and theories based on current events and hoped for consequences. At the same time, automakers are busy doing just that in anticipation of future consumer demands, emerging markets, fuel availability, and so much more. So, with all of that in mind and knowing that only God knows the future, here are some of my predictions concerning worldwide automotive production circa 2015. Consolidation General Motors, Toyota, Ford, DaimlerChrysler, Peugeot/Nissan, Honda, Hyundai, Volkswagen, and some other manufacturers are likely to snap up competitors, especially in emerging markets. Nope, I do not see the end of GM or Ford. Instead, I see both automakers concentrating on what they do best: making money overseas. The big factor in all of this will be the impact that Chinese built cars will have on local markets. If the cars are fairly well made and priced below the prevailing market rate, look for several companies to join forces in a bid simply to survive.

Look for low priced Indian built cars to be sold worldwide beginning early in the next decade. Emerging Markets China and India are the emerging markets of today. Look for several African nations to be the market for tomorrow provided further internecine violence doesn’t quell growth. The Central American nations and several South American countries will also benefit from strong growth. New Fuels Hybrid gas/electric technology will only be a blip on the screen once hydrogen cars enter production.

Honda is probably the closest to building production hydrogen powered cars with GM and Toyota not too far behind. Once the first hydrogen powered cars enter production, the world will see a revolution in automotive technology not seen since the advent of the internal combustion engine. Expect government mandates to ensure that every automaker has access to hydrogen technology.

New Technology Think green! Besides hydrogen power, the actual vehicle body is likely to change significantly too. Depending on availability, lightweight composite materials will be incorporated to help reduce costs and lower weight. Truly “smart” cars will arrive that will anticipate crashes, prevent roll over, and completely shut down or takeover control if the driver is incapacitated. Look for further gains in seating comfort, sound systems, lighting, and air management. New Transportation Although the personal passenger vehicle is not likely to ever disappear, newer versions of the same will show up especially in crowded cities.

Three wheel cars, car/motorcycle hybrids, and vehicles that can be hooked up to one another [in train formation] will be produced for certain markets. Of course, if the world is embroiled in a major war at any time, all of this will come to naught. Still, what many identify as “auto production” will change radically perhaps as soon as the next 3 or 4 years. I can’t wait, can you?

Growing the greatest flowers around

Most every gardener strives to grow the best, most stunning flowers around, but that goal is hard to get hold of. Whether you want to raise prize-winning blooms or just have a home garden filled with of beautiful flowers, there are some things you can do in order to ensure your garden is in the best shape possible. Soil chemistry counts The chemical make-up of the soil is one of the biggest factors that contribute to the success or failure of your garden. If the soil in your planting beds is poor in nutrients, it is unlikely that your plants will thrive or produce those beautiful flowers that you want until you enrich the soil with the nutrition the plants need. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that the soil chemistry is the same all over your yard. It is important to test the soil in each area of your property that you plan to plants, especially if the areas are away from each other. This can be important if part of your property is on a slope, or if it has been used for other things in the past. The slope of the land and the soil type in your area are important considerations to make. A complete analysis of the soil in your yard will give you a good place to starts and a help you to monitor the quality of the soil as your garden matures. Know what your plants will need to thrive You probably already have an idea about what you want to plant in your garden, so it is important that you understand what those plants will require in order to grow and flourish. Although many types of annuals, perennials, and bulbs can grow and thrive in a broad range of soil and weather conditions, others can have special requirements for food, water, and soil conditions. For example, if you are interested I n cultivating roses in your garden, you will need to know the pH level of your soil, and adjust it if you need to. Roses are commonly acid loving plants, and therefore they will not thrive in soil with a higher alkaline level. Getting some humus and tilling it into the soil can amend alkaline soil. If the humus does not do the job, adding sulfur to the soil can raise the acidity level. Keeping an eye on nutrition The nutrients in the soil will dictate the health and vitality of your plants and flowers. If the phosphorus and nitrogen levels, as well as the presence of other types of organic matter are not sufficient, your plants may be malnourished, and not thrive at all. Nutrients can be added to poor soil by suing humus or any number of good-quality fertilizers. Now you understand why the chemistry of your garden soil is so important in growing your ideal garden. Having the best flowers around is a big task to fulfill. Make sure that your garden soil is ready for the duty.

Take care with secured loan

Take a secured loan today and get the freedom which you will deserve. Secured loans services are free and it searches a multiple panel of loan lenders to get you the best secured loan, which are already available in the market. So use this type of profitable loans and see how much you can save. Appling for a secured loan could not be easier; it takes just a few seconds to apply using its short application form. Use the money as your wish or why not consider consolidating all your debts into one low cost easy payment. Don’t be worried if you think secured loan can’t help you. In nearly all situations it always says yes and still be able to offer very competitive interest rates. Secured loan always provides better option to enlarge its market, and more important thing is it is more appreciated because of durability, continuity, secured ness. Secured Loans specializes in different loans like car loans, personal loans and other type of loans. For the people who have had previous financial problems. This organization will search for the best loan lender to suit your circumstances. Everybody’s credit rating is diverse and you may have been refused a secured loan or finance before for numerous reasons such as – you have been turned down by another lender, your credit history is a little tainted, you have little or no credit history. It also finances people with licenses from the European Economic Area. In secured loan you get livelier offer which recommend you and your business, if you are a business person. As we know human’s wants are unlimited, so in different step people need different type of help. And in every step money really matters. So when you are thinking to borrow money, which times it, is better to prefer secured loan.

Seo a multipart solution

Imagine a boy handing his father a box filled with specialized Lego parts. Each looks similar in many ways, but they also have distinct features and colors that make it necessary to have a plan for ‘project development’. The father sorts through the box or bag looking for that ‘just right’ piece. Without a match between part and plan the Lego creation looks, well, different somehow – and that’s not always a bad thing. I’ve seen boys take those Lego sets and make some pretty amazing things, but ultimately it did not look anything like the picture on the box. These grade school problem solvers took the pieces and made something altogether new. Sometimes they even borrow from other Lego sets to create something even more fantastic and previously unknown and perhaps unduplicated. The bucket, box or bag of random parts became the catalyst for the imagination needed to make a true original project. Now I want you to think of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategies as something a bit like a Lego kit – lots of parts that can be combined to create something special when multiple parts are used. Many online businesses pick and choose the marketing components they feel most comfortable with. They will even use those skills to great effect, but like the Lego kits the parts can be assembled in a variety of ways that make for an impressive final outcome. SEO Starts with web design and then building blocks of SEO are attached to that primary block through the use of a variety of online marketing techniques. Perhaps you might like to try list building as a block in your ‘yet unknown and unidentified’ masterpiece, but you might also consider traffic building in order build your email list. Maybe you could develop an ezine and a ‘member’s only’ ebook download. These blocks can contribute to both traffic building and list building objectives. Video streaming and podcasting are popular components to marketing and SEO and they go hand in hand with social media, blogging and forums so be sure to add those blocks. Don’t forget autoresponders and customer service. There’s no use selling a product or service and forgetting the customer. After all, the customer is why you’re in business. When you want to let others know about your business you might consider email marketing (that’s where list building comes in) and Real Simple Syndication (RSS) to get the word out. Like Lego’s, each of these marketing strategies snap together to represent your business through SEO techniques. However, no matter how you build it you will need keyword rich content that is compelling to site visitors and easily slurped by spiders or perused by bots. When you do not have keyword rich content both site visitor and search engines do not find your site compelling enough to get excited about. You want people to get excited about your site. The role of quality content should never be minimized. If SEO is a lot like Lego building blocks, what does your site look like?

Passing your mcse exams on the road to microsoft certification

To earn the Microsoft certified systems engineer certification and to prove expertise in designing and implementation of the infrastructure for business solutions based on the Microsoft Windows 2003 platform and Microsoft Windows Server system, MCSE exam is the best medium. MCSE exam is held to improve the expertise in designing and implementing Windows Server 2003 and other issues related to it. In order to take an MCSE exam one needs to go through a fourteen-day MCSE training boot camp that helps in successfully becoming an MCSE. They use custom developed curriculum that is designed to provide both exam preparation and practical technology skills, ensuring that the examinee shall be ready for the performance based testing Microsoft has introduced in their certification programs. Experience instructors have been arranged who posses many years of experience of working wit Microsoft operating system and technologies both in the field and in the classroom. Computer labs are designed using genuine PC technology, which provides each student having the ability to access various Microsoft operating systems simultaneously on their desktop. Due to this facility provided for MCSE exam, students can access any time to practice for the exam throughout in order to maintain their progress and determine the areas that require further study of those Microsoft operating systems. Different kinds of resources are provided to both students and instructors under this boot camp while preparing for MCSE exam. These resources are based on web and also distribute them after and before the classroom session so that both of them can share information. The online forum assists them to analyze different methods of programming. These centers are available for obtaining the certification goals. Pre-class preparation is essential to ensure complete success in an MCSE exam. In the beginning materials and instructions are handed out which define as to how to prepare for the exam. In addition to this, as earlier mentioned one gets to access online resources, which provide detailed course information, and additional preparation resources. These resources related to the discussion forums and private questions posed to the instructors also help in preparing for the MCSE exam as they help in clearing doubts and difficulties. The boot camp for MCSE exam is set up to ensure the success rate for the examinees as well to prepare them before beginning of the classes. One testing voucher per MCSE exam is included with the course material. It ensures that the examinee is not misled. The limitation for the MCSE exam is provided during the class. Cost of retaking is borne by the examinee in case if he is unable to appear on the scheduled date. Also, if one feels that he would not be ready to take one or more exam during the boot camp then vouchers are handed out to enable the examinee to take the exam at a later date. This course can be retaken at free of cost but the testing fee and the courseware fee is not included. The validity for retaking the exams stands for six months. The candidates should have at least one year of experience in using Windows NT, Windows 2000 Server or Windows 2003 server in a networking environment to be eligible to attend the boot camp for the MCSE exam. Along with this there are several other pre-requisites for taking the exam. The candidate should have the knowledge of general networking concepts, IP addressing and sub-netting Active Directory Networking services. This gives the opportunity to brush up on technology skills and fill in any gaps in the knowledge base.

Finding the right mortgage

The world of mortgages has become a real minefield over recent years, with more and more mortgages coming onto the market. These days you can find mortgages to suit a wide range of circumstances and needs, but if you know little or nothing about mortgages the whole process can still be confusing and frustrating. If you are not confident about finding the right mortgage then it may be a good idea to employ the services of an independent financial adviser, who can advise on you on the best mortgage for your needs based on the details that you provide. However, you are better off paying the financial adviser for his or her assistance rather than choosing and adviser that gets commission directly from a lender, as this minimizes the risk of getting an adviser that recommends based on the commission that he or she will receive rather than based on what is truly best for you. Another option that can help you when it comes to finding the right mortgage is to go through a specialist mortgage broker. A mortgage broker is a professional with links to a number of mortgage lenders. When you use a mortgage broker to find your mortgage you will only have to complete one application form, which the broker will then use to approach different lenders within his pool of contacts in order to find you the best deal for your needs and circumstances. This will help to reduce the work and time that you have to put in, as the broker will do the leg work for you, and also reduces the chances of rejections, as the mortgage broker is most likely to know which mortgage lender will accept your application. However, before you approach a mortgage broker of adviser it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the different mortgage products available, as this will give you an idea of the type of mortgage you may wish to go for. In addition to deciding whether you want to opt for a repayment or interest only mortgage you also need to decide what sort of mortgage product you want, such as variable rate mortgage, fixed rate mortgage, base tracker mortgage, discounted mortgage, offset mortgage, or one of the many other mortgage products available. You will find plenty of information on mortgage products available online, so you can get an idea of the different types of mortgages and which one might suit you. However, trawling through different lenders' sites in order to compare different mortgages can be confusing and time consuming. This is where the professional broker or adviser can help in terms of helping you to find the right mortgage. He or she will have the resources, contacts, and experience to find the best mortgage for your needs, and of course you don’t have to commit to any recommended mortgage product until you are completely happy. You should bear in mind that taking on a mortgage is a serious commitment, and failure to keep up with repayments can result in you losing your home altogether. Therefore you should make sure that you can comfortably afford the repayments on your mortgage, and consider taking out a fixed rate if you feel that any increases in repayments during the first few years would leave you struggling financially.

Sending out invitations for a new years eve party

Sending Out Invitations for a New Years Eve Party If you are planning on hosting a New Years Eve party, one of the first items of business is planning your guest list. Once this is done and you have an idea of how many guests you will have, it is time to select a location for your party. Once you do this you can set a time for the event as well. All of this information is important because you will have to include all of this information on the invitation for your New Years Eve party. For this reason the planning of your New Years Eve party should be well underway before you send out your invitations. You should also consider whether or not there are any special requirements for the party because you might want to include these on the invitation as well. For example if you are planning a black tie event this should be noted on the invitations so guests know how they are expected to dress for the event. Similarly if you plan to make the party a potluck event, this should also be indicated on the invitation so guests will be aware that they are required to bring along a dish to share at the party. When hosting a New Years Eve party, you should also give some consideration to whether or not you want to have a theme for the party. Although it is not necessary to have the invitations reflect the theme, it is a fun idea and it can help to give the guests an indication of what to expect. Also if you expect guests to dress according to the theme, you will want to let the guests know so they are not caught by surprise. The timing of sending out New Years Eve party invitations is also very important. New Years Eve is a very popular holiday and many people start making plans for New Years Eve very early. For this reason, you might want to consider sending out invitations rather early to ensure your potential guests do not accept other invitations before they even receive your invitations. It is not unusual for a host to send out New Years Eve invitations as early as October. This helps to ensure the guests will receive the invitations before the holiday season so they can plan appropriately for your party. Alternately a host can send out invitations later in the year but send a save the date notice earlier or contact guests via phone to inform them of your intentions to host a party so they are aware that an invitation is on the way. When sending out New Years Eve invitations it is important to include instructions for responding. This is important because it is unlikely all of your invited guests will be able to attend the party but you want to know exactly how many guests will be attending. This number will be important for planning food, beverages and favors. If you do not know the number of guests ahead of time you may not have enough of these items or you may have too much left over. Finally, when sending out New Years Eve party invitations, budget is often a very important consideration. Custom invitations can actually be quite expensive. When setting your budget, you should research the cost of invitations and use this information to set your budget for these items. Word count 573

Honoring america s top dog

Anyone who loves dogs knows how much they enrich our lives. Some exceptional dogs not only touch our lives, but also help protect us by selflessly performing acts of heroism as service dogs. For instance, Quanto is a hard-working search and rescue dog. He specializes in two distinct areas: detecting explosives and assisting in human search and rescue missions. His finely tuned skills have helped him clear buildings after explosives were detected-but his loving nature has helped him comfort those he's rescued. Quanto and four of his four-legged contemporaries are being honored through the PEDIGREE Paws to Recognize program. Because of their love of dogs, PEDIGREE created this national initiative that acknowledges the exceptional contributions professionally trained service dogs make in their communities. The Delta Society, Guide Dogs for the Blind, National Association for Search and Rescue, U. S. Customs and Border Protection and the U. S. War Dogs Association worked with PEDIGREE Food for Dogs and Wal-Mart to identify and nominate five astonishing canines for this year's top honor. People can log on to pedi gree/vote to view photos and biographies of each of the dogs and then vote on which one they think is most deserving of the top dog honor. The winner will be celebrated at a special ceremony in September. If 100,000 votes are cast by July 14, 2006, $25,000 will be donated to the American Humane Association. Here's a look at the other four nominees: • Hero-This Labrador Retriever makes regular visits to patients at hospitals, hospices, nursing homes and other health facilities. He's the inspiration for "Project Hero," a program that provides young people living in a youth detention center with canine companions. • Rocky-This chocolate Lab serves as an explosive detector dog at the Port of Los Angeles, where he's an "employee" of U. S. Customs and Border Protection. On an average day, Rocky screens between 5,000 and 7,000 international passengers, 15,000 pieces of luggage and thousands of pieces of cargo. • Xena-This former shelter dog completed a rigorous training program and now serves as a guide dog. She provides her human partner with safe mobility, companionship and improved quality of life. • Polo-This German Shepherd recently returned from a tour of duty in Kuwait, where he served as an Explosive Detection/Patrol Dog, searching vehicles, buildings, aircraft, barracks and open areas for dangerous and harmful explosive materials.

Effective booklets for a successful business

Leaflets, pamphlets, guide and catalogs - these all refers to booklets that are used by businesses to market their products and services. In today’s highly competitive market it is essential that every business has a marketing strategy that can help promote their products and services. In creating your company booklet it is important not only to include graphics and images. It should also be informative and neat. A few images and text won’t help market your product so make sure that they are informative, simple and catchy as much as possible. Also, carefully choose the layout and printing company that will do the job for you. There are a lot pf printing companies today all claiming of good and effective service. It is just up to you to choose which service to avail. Just make sure that the printing company that you choose has adequate experience in the print job that you need to be done. Also, carefully choose the colors that you will use. If you want to use a dark background use light letters and use light background for dark letters. The images and photos that you will include in your booklet have to also be carefully chosen. You do not want to send the wrong idea and impression to your customers so make sure that the images are appropriate to your products or services. The message that you will also include have to be short and straightforward yet still catchy. Take for example a clothes designer trying to find a way to showcase his newest spring collection. Advertising through brochures and catalogs can be quite costly. So let him do it through a booklet. He can have a simple medium size fifteen or twenty-five page booklets with interesting illustrations and images and it will do the job for him. Keep in mind though that the booklet should be attractive in appearance and content as most advertising materials are short lived, but a well created and designed booklet can probably live longer than most materials. It can tell the story for you. It can detail your business like no other promotional material can at a very affordable price. And if produced rightly it will get you those customers that you need.