Adirondack Furniture: Teak Or Cedar?

Premium Adirondack furniture is a purely American invention and a preferred choice where outdoor furnishings are concerned. The furniture originated in the Adirondack mountains and quickly spread outward. Although the popularity dropped off for a while, quality Adirondack furniture is back and more popular than ever. For many, it is not a choice of whether or not to buy premium Adirondack furniture. Instead, the choice seems to boil down to what kind of wood is the best where this premium outdoor furniture is concerned: Teak or Cedar?

Because Adirondack chairs and loungers are most common on patios or in gardens, the furniture must be able to stand up to the elements. Rain, sleet, snow, and insects are common enemies of woodso which is betterteak or cedar?

Western Red Cedar is a very popular wood with a very fine grain and beautiful natural appearance. With minimal care, Western Red Cedar wood resists moisture and decay very well. In addition, furniture made from cedar will be naturally insect repellant. The natural oils found within cedar are responsible for the weather and insect resistant properties of cedar. Western Red Cedar Adirondack furniture is a uniform color of red and brown but this will fade in time (when left outdoors) and turn into a silver/gray. Cedar is best when finished with a stain and tends to last longer with care. However, premium Adirondack furniture made from Western Red Cedar is a good choice in high moisture environments such as cottages and patios.

Teak wood is another great choice for Adirondack furniture because it, too, is naturally weather resistant. Teak wood is very high in oil and rubber concentrations which is why it is virtually impermeable to watereven untreated. Premium Adirondack furniture made from teak wood can literally be left outside for years without worry. Like Western Red Cedar, teak wood will also begin to gray with time when not treated or stained. However, unlike cedar, teak wood is very tight grained. While cedar is a soft wood, teak is very sturdy and difficult to knick and damage.

So, is the best Adirondack furniture made from teak or cedar? While teak is more weather resistant and durable, Western Red Cedar is a beautiful wood that adds a distinctive element to the furniture. In truth, both are great woods and both used to make quality Adirondack furniture. The best choice will boil down to personal taste.

Jesse Akre, owner of numerous home and patio decor websites, makes it easy to find fantastic Adirondack Chairs and beautiful Adirondack Furniture . Learn how to decorate your patio and garden in style - click the following link: http://www.adirondackchairs-store.com.Kiley Blog98733
Garfield Blog28306

Why I Like Classic Car & Cycle People!

While watching the TV news, I was appalled at how many people can't just get along, to quote Rodney King. It is truly a very sad situation. Then I thought about all the different types of people we have at our event and how well they all get along.

In the 18 years we have been doing our events, we have never had any trouble with the participants at our shows. Bikers, Low Riders, Classic Cars, Hot Rodders, Sports Cars types and Tuner owners, they all attend our classic car & cycle show and all of them have a great time. Don't get me wrong, they all have different likes and dislikes, but they are tolerant of their fellow gear heads.

The world could learn a lot from Gear Heads! Learn to appreciate the other person's point of view. Low Riders always draw a crowd when they put their vehicles through their "dance". Now I'm not at all interested in having a car that hops, but I sure can appreciate the work and engineering that goes into allowing thousands of pounds of Chevy to bounce six feet off the ground. I also don't want a car with 1000 horsepower with a blower sticking out of the hood. but I sure do enjoy checking out those types of cars at the car shows.

The way I see it, we are all different and we should revel in these differences not curse them. Diversity makes the world an interesting and fun place to live in. It's a shame that some people feel its either their way or the highway. Whether its religion, politics or drive trains, we all need to love our neighbors and that which makes them unique.

If the world was made of Classic Car and Cycle People, what a wonderful place it would be!

See Ya There!

Ray Taylor
Owner of the San Diego Auto Swap and the Classic Cars Net Free Classifieds

http://www.CarsNet.com
http://www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com

Ray Taylor is the owner of the real world San Diego Car & Cycle - Show & Swap. He also owns www.CarsNet.com, www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.comHugues Blog52456
Cascades Blog24346

The A-B-Cs of Domain Name Registration

Before registering a domain name, know the facts. Domain name registration is easy - finding the perfect domain name for your personal or business website is not! There are thousands of possibilities for your domain name, but you can only choose one domain name for a website. So, you must make it count! Here are some pointers to get you started with domain name registration. It's easier than you think.

Keep your Domain Name Simple

A domain name should be simple so visitors will remember it easily. What's easier to remember - three or four words, or only one or two words? Obviously a short, simple domain name is easier to remember. The shorter the name, the less likely people are to misspell it as well. Your goal in choosing a domain name should be to find one that is easy to remember, easy to spell, and will stand out in the minds of visitors. It should be related to your products and services, or personal website theme.

TIP: Avoid using your company name initials or your own name initials. These do not describe anything at all about your website's theme. Visitors will not remember it unless you promote it heavily on national television and all over the Web. But, we'll leave that to "Corporate Web" for now!

Domain Name Registration Pricing

Don't be fooled by high domain name registration prices. Whether you pay a cheap domain name registration fee or a high fee, you're still getting the same thing - a domain name! There's no secret add-on service that can benefit you unless you're getting web hosting or a low-cost web site with your domain name. Otherwise, domain name registration is the same whether you order a cheap domain name or an expensive one. Be sure to shop around before you register.

Checking Domain Name Availability

You can visit almost any web hosting site to check the availability of a domain name. Never assume a domain name is available just because it doesn't show online when you try to bring it up in your browser. If a domain name is not showing online, it could be that the site's server is down at the moment, the owner is still designing a new web site and hasn't put it online yet, or the owner might be trying to sell the domain name. When you check to see if the domain name is available, you do not have to purchase it from the site where you checked. You can purchase it from any company that offers domain name registration once you know it is available.

Beware of Expired Domain Names

If you are considering buying an expired domain name, do research before completing the domain name registration process. You could be wasting your money! Ask the registrar questions about why the domain name has expired, what type of site it was before expiring, etc. Some expired domain names have been banned from the search engines all together because they were used by spammers or those selling illegal products or services. If that were the case, you'd be better off finding another domain name. Once a site is banned from the search engines, getting it listed again is almost impossible. Your chances for good, targeted traffic are next to none.

Web Hosting and Domain Names

Some companies offer both web hosting and domain name registration. Others might offer one or the other, or a combined package where you can get a low-cost web site along with a cheap domain name and web hosting. Though it's easier to keep up with billing and expenses if you do all this through one company, you are not required to host your site with the same company where you register your domain name. It will not affect how your web site services are handled, or how you operate your site.

Domain name registration can be an easy process once you decide on the right domain name. Your domain name will be a key player in your online success, so take your time to choose a winner!

Chris Robertson is a published author of Majon International. Majon International is one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing and internet advertising companies on the web. Visit their main business resource web site at: http://www.majon.comMarguerite Blog98459
Laurent Blog20293

Information on Eczema Why Eczema Hates Alfalfa Sprouts

Heres some Information on Eczema that you need to take note of. I want to impart on you the importance of incorporating sprouts into your diet in general and in particular the incorporation of the very powerful and healing alfalfa sprout.

Alfalfa sprouts have been known to cure all manner of ailments, including the very hard to cure gangrene. In 1970 a patient who suffered with diabetes was threatened with amputation.

The patient who suffered gangrene on his lower right leg decided he would travel to a well known and very popular nutritionist in the US. He was asked to reside at the clinic and whilst there was given a very powerful, magic and natural concoction.

The nutritionist prepared for her patient on a daily basis four glasses of alfalfa and wheat grass sprout juice. The nutritionist also used the sprout mixture externally to bath his leg again on a regular basis.

Within two weeks, he was totally cured of his gangrene.

Alfalfa will do wonders for your Dry Skin Rash or Eczema and heres why:

#1 - Alfalfa is one of the most nutritionally rich foods youll ever consume.

#2 - Alfalfa contains every amino acid. Its also jammed packed with vitamins, minerals and protein.

#3 - Alfalfa has been used for thousands of years as a healing food. Many people have experienced remission from a wide number of ailments.

#4 - Alfalfa provides the body with an excellent calcium-phosphorus ratio (2:1).

#5 - Alfalfa juice helps to flush toxins out of the body and is a very good source of trace elements such as zinc, selenium, chromium, cobalt, silicon and iodine.

#6 - Alfalfa is excellent for healing the skin and liver. It has been proved very effective as an anti-cancer agent.

I can personally vouch for the wonderful healing powers of Alfalfa sprouts.

You can either eat the sprouts in salads, and sandwiches or you can add them to your juices. I personally would do both.

Try adding Alfalfa sprouts to your daily menu and watch your skin heal smooth and evenly.

Heres to smooth, beautiful skin.

Janet Simpson is a writer and health reporter. Get FREE how to tips to cure your eczema, and create beautiful smooth skin at: http://www.CureYourEczema.comJean Claude Blog37215
Ghislain Blog79226

Custom Silicone Bracelets - A New Cheap Giveaway For Corporations And Organizations

Remember going to your last trade fair? Remember that small booth where all you have to do is to place your full name, telephone number, address, and email address, and once you do that, you get a free mug with the company name on the mug?

Well you didnt really care what the company is all about right? If it were an electronics company selling hi-tech gadgets, and you weren't into those mumbo jumbo, you would still put your name down and get the free mug.

Well those mugs are pretty pricey, about $2-$3 per mug at wholesale cost, which includes the print, the packaging, the shipping, and the mug itself on what its made out of. Its effective however for the company since the company is being advertised on the mug itself.

Imagine the new craze right now, Customized Silicone Rubber Bracelets. These are the ones that just made a big hit about 2 years ago - and they are still in demand! These are similar to the Livestrong bracelets, which we see almost everywhere!

It is made out of high-quality rubber, and you can customize it from the Color of the bracelet (you can even blend two colors together, or put a stripes or swirled pattern with more than 2 colors), you can put whatever message you want on the bracelet, and choose the font (obviously put the company or organizations name on it), as well as putting the logo of the company or organization as well.

It advertises the organization also, as the message is seen by everyone that sees the bracelet. Mugs can only be seen during breakfast at home.

Well the silicone bracelets are super cheap! Way cheaper than mugs! For around 500 pieces, you can purchase these Customized Silicone Wristbands at around $0.50 each, and then it shouldnt be a biggie distributing these to a large number of people. They are even 4 to 6 times cheaper than mugs, and more useable.

They can also be used for promotion, to advertise a new product or a new store being opened, used as a giveaway. During the political campaign, politicians spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to promote themselves, and an effective way is to Customize Silicone Bracelets with their name and their color in it, and they can give them away for free! If you see a city full of Blue Wristbands during the past presidential campaign, what should that mean?

Chris Angeles is the founder of Kulayful Silicone Bracelets. They customize silicone bracelets. They offer the lowest prices backed up by a pricematch guarantee of 5%. Visit them at http://www.kulayful.com.Korie Blog81640
Emma Blog49463

Advanta Platinum Business Custom Credit Card Review

The Advanta Platinum Business Custom Card is a MasterCard airline rewards card issued by Advanta Business and is limited to business owners with a perfectly good credit history. It offers you a variety of services including specific services and rewards for your large or small business needs. The Advanta Platinum Business Custom Card can be used for airline rewards where you can expect the benefit of 'points' system or rebates for certain purchases.

The approval rate for this card is at an all time high and if you fall into the record of "Good Credit" and have a FICO score of 801 or more then you can expect to be on the right side of approval. Though the approval time for this offer is not listed, yet it generally takes approximately a month for the approval process to be completed as the approval process takes nearly a fortnight to complete and an additional 1-2 weeks are required for the card to be delivered to you post your approval.

The good news is that the introductory APR is 0% for 15 billing cycles, though this rate only applies towards balance transfers. Hence, you have to be cautious as some card issuers might charge higher rates and fees for cash advances. APRs vary among applicants due to different reasons but the lowest standard APR is 7.99% and it is fixed, so you can be rest assured that this rate will not change with the U.S. prime rates. What more, there is no annual fee for the Advanta Platinum Business Custom Card and you can get 5% of your cash back or avail the travel rewards offered.

The main intention of the Advanta Platinum Business Custom Card is to attract the business owners with a flawless credit record, so if you are a business owner with nearly perfect credit records this is the ultimate card for you. All you have to do is to provide your basic business information along with your Federal tax I.D. number and business phone and address while applying for this offer.

To make your transactions easy and smooth the grace period given to you by the Advanta Platinum Business Custom Card is set at twenty days at the least. Hence you can take a breather as interest charges will not be applied during the time set as the grace period. However, you will be required to pay a late fee of $19 if you fail to pay within the grace period. An over limit fee of $39 is charged from you if you exceed your permitted credit range provide by the Advanta Platinum Business Custom Card. But combined with all the other features, including you ability to save with a 0% APR for full 15 months, paying hardly becomes a difficulty.

Since the Advanta Platinum Business Custom Card has the brand of MasterCard its acceptance is undoubtedly global. So you can go almost anywhere stress free and use this universally accepted card with ease and lan as most businesses that accept credit cards as a form of payment will gladly accept the MasterCard's Advanta Platinum Business Custom Card.

This article was brought to you courtesy of Anthony Samuel, the webmaster of http://www.apply-for-a-credit-card-now.com . A credit card directory where you can search, compare and apply for credit cards from leading credit card companies.Fiacre Blog72079
Jacqueline Blog52276

The History of Seal Beach California

Seal Beach, California used to be dynamic and charming place. Now the situation is a bit different. Some years ago Seal Beach was a lively and dynamic place with games, entertainment and of course, the seals. Nowadays, all the liveliness and clamor of Seal Beachis replaced with people peacefully walking the pier or or enjoying the beautiful beaches.

Seal Beach, California was established in 1915 with a population of 250. The town was first established under the name Bay City before being changed to Seal Beach. It offers the longest beach south of San Francisco. The beach is unique with its seals but also with the sightseers who visit the town, the people who go there to picnic, the adults who dance in the pavilion or dine at the restaurants and so on and so forth.

With the foundation of Pacific Electric Railway, Henry Huntington had brought to Seal Beach, California many people who displayed interest to invest their money in the community. These people wanted to buy a strips of land along the beach, which was a rare commodity. As the population of Seal Beach, California was increasing, the people continued to enjoy the beauties that town had to offer.

During World War II the growth slowed down a bit, but the postwar years ushered in improved incomes and industry. Many more people decided to settle down in the area and trade was developing very quickly.

Some years later, somebody decided to make Seal Beach, California a conservation area. They closed the gambling houses and the amusement park. The purpose of all these prohibitions was to stop sea drilling, inshore erosion, and other environmental threats.

At that time, the population of Seal Beach, California had grown to 25,000. Although the size of the population had decreased, the way of life in Seal Beach was quite pleasant. The people were living in a comfortable and quiet place rather than a noisy industrial town. A place where you can relax in peace and where you can enjoy the environment. Seal Beach, California welcomes all tourists who want to go surfing and shopping, or who want to dance and listen to music. The beaches also offer lovely playgrounds and picnic sites.

Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning property. Get the information you are seeking now by visiting http://www.thepropertyprince.com/real-estate/real-estate/the-history-of-seal-beach-california.htmlDamien Blog89797
Marietta Blog5999

Foolproof Exercise Program

Why do people "fail" with their exercise program? Do they fail to actualize the hit they had hoped for? Far from a misadventure, this is usually the result of their lack of understanding what is required from them for an exercise program to be advantageous .

The five outstanding reasons that most people are not noteworthy with their exercise program are:

1. They try to do much too soon.

2. They have defective or inappropriate expectations.

3. They get disentranced .

4. They lose their motivation.

5. They relinquish too soon.

Because these are the central reasons that many exercise programs don't seem to do the job, maybe addressing them may make us greater on track with the exercise side of our fitness and weight loss plans. Let's get going! Let's take a look at each in turn and see if we can figure out what you can do to be fortuitous.

The dangers of overdoing exercise.

A ingredient that figures into all five issues is naturally ignorance. I don't mean that as an insult, it's just that people go out and buy a piece of equipment or a Richard Simmons DVD and jump in with both feet. Even if they read the directions, those are normally written from the viewpoint of "this is what you should be doing" rather than "this is how you get to the point where you can do what you should be doing". Since most people don't really know much about exercise or how it works, and I was once one of those people, they tend to make a lot of mistakes, even though they have the utmost of intentions.

Please do not try to do too much too soon. This can be risky!

Let's say your modern barbell set says, that for maximum conclusion, you should be able to three sets of ten reps a certain exercise with the weight set at one-fourth of your body weight. So, you figure you weigh 160 lbs, set the bar at 40 lbs, and do ten reps. You're a little winded. It was a bit hard, but you were able to do it. You rest a minute, and try again. It's harder, but you're still able to get through it. You take another short rest and do the third set. Wow! You had to squeeze out the last couple of reps, but you did it! You feel pleasing. You've got what it takes, and you can't wait until the next exercise day.

In all probability you have produced a large amount of damage to muscle tissue that your body will now have to spend the next couple of days fixing. Since in many cases you are out of shape (even if you were able to do all three sets), your body is going to have a hard time getting that work completed. I can tell you that this is certainly going to impact almost every physical, impetuous, and mental event or episode in your life over the next several hours or days.

Don't you delight in how you feel the next day? You hurt like hell! That's what happens. Even if you can convince yourself that this is a admirable sign, continuing on in this manner will eventually either produce a real injury, or will set you up mentally and physically to begin wanting to avoid your workouts, whether you are doing aerobics, lifting weights, running, swimming, bicycling, or working in your garden.

Most people naturally do not imagine how much is going on internally when they take an out-of-shape body and begin demanding that it perform as if it were already in shape.

So, just take it basic. Start off stall and gradually ease your way up to higher levels. Many marathoners were barely able to walk to the end of the block and back when they fundamental started. Innumerable a housewife has begun her "exercise program" with a can of Campbell's Chicken Noodle Soup in each hand. Start light and swell gradually. Don't worry if you don't see "results" at elementary levels. All sorts of good sustaining things are going on inside your body.

You should definitely have realistic expectations,

One of the greatest remarks to remember is: It took you years to get this way and you're not going to change things in a couple of days. Don't expect to lose 20 lbs in 10 days. It can happen, but that's the exception to the rule. You must remember that everyone is incomparable. One thing you can say is that if you do your exercises regularly and gradually challenge yourself, your body will make the appropriate changes in outward appearance and inner capabilities.

Yes! It's true! Exercise CAN get routine

Doing anything day after day can be commonplace whether it's exercise, television, or eating ice cream. A scanty people can do things over and over and never get tired of it, but most of us aren't built that way. Even if you are doing everything the right way, have valuable expectations, have a enormous program, and are seeing commendable results, getting up 45 minutes early for the 150th day in a row and strapping on those running shoes is going to get old eventually. Do what you can to liven it up a bit. Even if you just like to go for a walk, can't you walk somewhere else today? Why not substitute a swim, a bicycle ride, a visit to the zoo, or an hour's worth of yard work for your walk? If your standard routine is comprised of Press, Curl, Bench Press done with a barbell, why not substitute Triceps Extensions, Preacher Curls, and Chest Flys all done with a dumbell once in a while? Or, you could go to the park, do some chin ups and pushups and then take a long walk yourself. Who says you have to do exactly the same thing in the same place every day?

Maitaining Motivation is the Key

How various times have you begun a program or project with a very strong motivation, only to obtain that after a scattering days, you just didn't feel like doing it any increased? The other night, you saw a documentary on the potential dangers of heart condition in sedentary people and were so affected by it that you took an oath to begin exercising regularly. Or maybe you went shopping for new clothes and found that you needed the next larger size...again! You went home and vowed that you would do whatever it took to get back to the size you were in steep school (unrealistic expectation) and that afternoon you began your exercise program and felt so stupendous about what you were doing. A scanty days later, you just couldn't procure the time or the motivation to do your workout. In fact, you weren't even thinking about whatever it was that kicked you into gear in the number one place.

Write it down. As you write it, feel every boiling emotion...pain, fear, embarrassment, anger...whatever got you started on the exercise pathway in the elementary place. Make it a statement about what you feel, what you desire to change, why you deisre to change, and how you intend to change. Put it in your purse, wallet, or pocket, and take it out and read it a scattering times a day. Every time you read it, try to read it out loud, and try to reconstruct in your very being the thoughts and feelings you had when you wrote it down. Paste it on your mirror, put it on the fridge, tell your best friend if you dare, but revive it in your heart several times a day, every day.

Whatever you do, don't give up!

Hamza Davis is a top distributor with Juice Plus. He is committed to promoting health and wellness. To receive greater information, please visit http://www.iluvjuiceplus.comDupont Blog62474
Larissa Blog73885

Your Future Today

Your future is important. It is so important that you need to work on it, today. While they say that the only thing constant about life is change, prepare yourself for this and you have it made. The most important tool you will need on this endeavor is a good education. A constant zest for lifelong learning will help you stay ahead in the present and continuously for the future.

To take the first step toward this, it is important to choose the right vocational school. Not just any vocational school will do. Make sure that you choose to invest your time, effort and future in an accredited vocational school.

Vocation schools are a dime a dozen. Before choosing and enrolling at a vocational school, make sure that the vocational school is accredited with the right organizations. Also, you may find yourself applying for a job that will require from their applicants a degree or at least a certification that you are currently or will enroll at an accredited vocational school.

Don't waste your time, energy and money on second rate vocational schools. Make a vocational school's proper accreditation a main criteria in choosing a vocational school for you. The whole purpose of enrolling and learning at a vocational school is to be enabled and ready to be a productive part of society through the school's skill teaching processes. There is no point in going through this whole process if you are not assured of ready employment afterward.

To avoid this and prevent this from happening, take a look and take note of the accredited vocational schools of prospective employers. It will also be helpful to take closer look at the accreditation of vocational schools you may be interested in attending. To help you get a jumpstart for your search in the right direction of accredited vocational schools, check out the links below.

Arizona Community

Are you in the Arizona area, in search of an accredited vocational school? Then http://www.arizonacommunity.net is the best place to start your search. Log on to this helpful portal to find accredited vocational schools in your area. They have an extensive listing of helpful information to get you one step closer to finding an accredited vocational school.

Vocational School Directory

The name of this site says it all. Find anything and everything about vocational schools through http://www.vocationalschooldirectory.com Their extensive listing will afford you various possibilities for accredited vocational schools you can choose from.

This content is provided by Low Jeremy. It may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more information on Vocational Schools & other useful information, please visit http://vocational-schools.articlekeep.com.Keely Blog43914
Luc Blog90357

Do You Know Why You Shouldn't Use Music On Your Website?

Top five reasons why you shouldn't use music on your website

Just about everyday I come across a website that has music that "autoplay's" when you first enter a site. Using music or audio on your website can be a very useful tool when used correctly (i.e. having a play button, etc), however most people just put it on thier site because that can. That's the worst reason to have music on your site.

Here are five reasons that you shouldn't use music on your website:

1. Many people do personal searches at work

OK, so you've gotten a potential buyer to click a link to your website while they are at work. Once you site loads the audio comes on and startes playing its little song loudly! Guess what your potiental client is going to do?

Close the window with your site! That's the easiest way to stop the music on your site. Many people don't know how to adjust volume on thier computers. When you music starts blaring, your potential client will be worried about drawing attention to thier personal web search/shopping while they ae at work.

2. Just because you can doesn't mean you should

The webtemplate that you are using give you the option of using music. So you think, sure I'll put music on. Let's see what are the choices...none of the songs are your favorites, but since you have the option of using it you might as well...WRONG!

Just because you have the option doesn't mean you have to use it. For example my car comes with a cigarette lighter, I don't smoke, and don't feel compelled to just because my car has a lighter or ashtray.

3. Many people don't have the sound turned on anyway

If you music is so important to your site, how do you handle visitors that don't have the speakers on their computer turned on?

That's a great resaon to have a "play" button, and not just autoplay.

4. Adds to download time

The more crap a potential client's computer has to download. No matter how small a file is, it adds to the overall download time. If you have a commerce website you need to be aware of how long your site downloads on dial up and broadband connections. Everyone who clicks away because your website takes too long to load is money out of your pocket.

5. Doesn't enhance the shoppers experience

If your goal is to make money with your website, everything on your website should push every visitor towards buying. If something on your website doesn't help them click the buy button, then it's not necesary and a waste of time an energy.

So before you add Bon Jovi's Blaze of Glory that sounds like it was played on a 1980's Casio keyboard, consider if it enhances a shoppers experience or is just annoying!

Rules Are Made To Be Broken

Now before you email me to tell me that I'm wrong and that audio has a place on websites, I know that it does! Every rule has exceptions, and my goal with this article is to make you think before you just throw a crappy autoplay song on your website.

Louie Foxx

About the author

Louie Foxx runs the website http://www.amazingmagickit.com that provides magic kits and magic tricks for kids ages 6-12.

This article is copyrighted by the author, but you are free to use it as long a the copyright notice remains and all links are included.

Louie Foxx is a professional magician based out of Seattle and he runs the website http://www.amazingmagickit.com that sells kids magic kits.Aquin Blog37449
Aide Blog17337

Obsession and Desire in Film Noir

What makes a good film noir romance? And how is it different from, say, a romantic comedy or romantic drama?

A romance in any genre surely must have plenty of trouble and complications to create enough tension to captivate audiences.

The difference in classic film noir lies partially in the universe which the characters inhabit. Whether it's a seedy dive bar, a stuffy New York apartment, or a fancy house on Russian Hill, the noir ambiance pervades.

But film noir lovers are different too. They're not just two schmucks in love trying to make it work.

Instead, our protagonist is usually overcome with an obsessive and/or fatalistic desire. And, it's usually the male (except in Joan Crawford movies), who is the one haunted and driven.

And that's why the femme fatale is so prevalent in noir. She may be consciously or unconsciously seducing him into her web for her own desperate needs or she may be merely using him to further her own position in an underground world of crime. She often "belongs" to some more powerful, even evil kingpin.

Problem is, she usually falls for the very guy she set out to use and then the two of them are really in trouble. So, either she follows her heart and goes with the ever-suffering protagonist, thus incurring some form of mortal or legal danger for both of them, or she nobly sacrifices her own happiness to save her beloved.

Either way, it generally doesn't end well. But oh, how we love identifying with those fierce passions run amuck.

Other variations of the classic film noir love triangle involve a real sweet girl or wife, our male protagonist and the femme fatale.

Another common characteristic of film noir lovers is that our main guy knows he's going down, but just can't help himself. One or both of the lovers may be headed towards self-destruction, yet feels powerless or lacks the will to stop it.

Why are we so fascinated with film noir romances? Perhaps it's the irresistible fatalism these characters are caught up in, where the fragile promise of desire consummated is supplanted by an inner torment taken to the nth degree.

And for our voyeuristic pleasure, here are five examples of some favorite doomed-from-the-start film noir love affairs:

1. Johnny (Glenn Ford) and Gilda (Rita Hayworth) in "Gilda" (1946). The pain is palpable in this complex love triangle. Johnny's best friend and boss is Ballin (George MacCready), a man whose new bride happens to be Johnny's ex flame. He can't bear the way she treats his friend, but is also tormented by his own rekindled attraction to her and vice versa.

2. Mae Doyle (Barbara Stanwyk) and Earl (Robert Ryan) in "Clash By Night" (1952). Mae Doyle tires of her new nice- guy husband and goes after his dark and moody friend Earl. They embark on a torrid, unhappy affair.

3. Mark (Dana Andrews) and Laura (Gene Tierney) in "Laura" (1944). Quietly intense detective Mark McPherson falls hard for the beautiful woman in a portrait who is supposedly dead. His obsession grows as he investigates her things and the men in her life.

4. Helen (Claire Trevor) and Sam (Lawrence Tierney) in "Born to Kill" (1947). He's a killer and she knows it, but Helen and Sam are fiercely attracted. She tries to avoid him since she's already engaged, so he goes after her rich sister instead. This only incites their passion and things get lethal.

5. Jeff (Glenn Ford again) and Vicki (Gloria Graham) in "Human Desire" (1954). Jeff's the nice-guy train engineer who gets sucked into murder and mayhem by the irrepressible Vicki, whose husband Carl (Broderick Crawford) is obsessed with jealousy and suspicion.

As these films illustrate, a film noir "romance" is rarely a just a sweet love affair which happens to be set in a dark alley. Rather, it's usually a desperate attraction between two otherwise alienated souls who find a rare kinship in one another. But due to circumstances of their noir universe (whether external or internal), it seems their union can only lead to destruction, whether to themselves or to others.

Laura Eggers operates Film Noir Alley, a site which is a resource to help film noir fans find books, music, dvds and posters. Also delves into specific psychological aspects of film noir, such as strangest scenes, passions, obsessions, oddball characters, deviant relationships, and more. http://www.film-noir-alley.com. This article may be reprinted with this "About The Author" box included.Endeavour Blog81802
Elizabeth Blog57141

Skateboard Contest Preparation

When preparing for a skateboarding contest, the contestants have to stand out above the rest. One can not expect to stand out above their competitors without preparing well in advance before the big day.

Skateboarding is an extremely popular sport among young people from the ages of 10 25. Why is skateboarding such a popular sport? Its more than the tricks and the turns that a skateboardist can do. Its about style, attitude and even the type of music that one listens to whether its rap, rock or contemporary Christian. Skateboarding is a lifestyle.

Like all spirited sporting activities, skateboarding when its time to compete, you have to go out in full force. Here are some tips, to prepare for a competition.

-Make sure that your helmet fits nice and snug on your head. It will be quite an embarrassment for ones helmet to fly off during a competitionnot to mention a safety hazard.

-Invest in the top of the line skateboard and make sure that you choose colors that capture peoples attention. When the judges rate a contestant during a competition, everything is visual.

-Unless you are highly gifted at skateboarding, if you are new to the sport, dont join a competition unless you know for certain that you have the skills that it takes to compete.

-Make sure that you practice everyday. The judges will be judging how smoothly you maneuver your skateboard. Skateboarding should be like musicit should flow easily.

-Do not invent new tricks during the competition. Inventing new tricks can cause embarrassing bloopers.

-Do not eat a huge meal before a skateboarding competition. If you do have breakfast, do not over indulge. Stick with dry foods such as a breakfast bar, bagel or toast. Eating eggs with sausage and pancakes is not recommended. It will not only make you tired and slow you down but it may cause stomach pains from the excitement and all the twist and turns that you will make during the competition.

Last but not least, its extremely important that a player is in tip top shape before the competition. That means eating healthy, taking your vitamins and exercising. Practicing skateboarding is not an excuse not to exercise your limbs. You should jog or take 30 minute brisk walks daily or join a gym to help build your muscle and give you more confidence and definitely more energy.

Being in shape prior to the contest helps one to escape from injuries.

Dana Bradley writes about http://www.buyskateboardgear.com, http://www.buyskateboardgear.com/Coupons/DicksSportingGoods.com.html and http://www.SportsTeamFanHeaven.comEnzyme Blog65889
Honorine Blog87890

Is Speed Dating Hazardous to Your Health?

Have you found your better half yet? If you have not, I wish you luck! Regarding the people I meet every day and the number of the current world population, luck isn't the only thing that can help you. Have you considered speed dating?

If you believe that you have a better half somewhere then you probably believe in destiny. If everyone were destined to meet his or her better half, then you have nothing to worry about? Does it matter where you would start from? After all, are you destined to meet this special someone or not?

Moreover, it will be better if you speed the process a bit. What do you think about speed dating? What is speed dating exactly? Just go out, go wherever you want and point the desired person. The important thing in speed dating is its speed. Do it quickly! Why should you wait? Are you wondering where you can find about the different speed dating options? It is no problem at all. Just check on the World-Wide-Web.

Do you know anything about speed dating? Every time I hear the words speed dating I recall of the horror movie Valentine. The story was about two beautiful girls who decide to try speed dating.

Dont you just need to go out of your room? May be it is time to communicate with real persons. Nobody will eat you or even hurt you, I promise. Just try it. Now it is easier than ever. You can find all the needed information on the World-Wide-Web.

When I first heard about the web site, which was used for speed dating, I was burst into laughter. What was this thing? Was this cyberspace convenient speed dating? Oh, come on, are you kidding? However, once I saw him checking the web site and I get rather intrigued. I saw him chatting with women who were thousands of miles away.

This distant friendship made me feel in a strange way. I was surprised how much access we have from our homes. You can contact with people from every place on the world, you just need a personal computer and high speed Internet.

I was amazed how interested he was in speed dating. He even met some girls through speed dating. Speed dating makes it so easy to find your soul mate. Speed dating is not influenced by shyness or prejudices. You can meet also people who are near you. Just choose only to speed date in your current region.

Have you tried speed dating already? If your answer is no, I suggest you to try it right now. It is no more fashionable to date in the bars. May be you do not prefer to spend your precious weekends wandering through the smoky bars, seeking for your mate. Everyone gets bored of the club scenes. After all, you live in the age of the online speed dating!

Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning dating. Learn more at http://www.singlesanddatinginfo.com/singles--dating/singles--dating/is-speed-dating-hazardous-to-your-health.htmlAthenes Blog49697
Croix Blog87727

First Romantic Evening

A guy proposed a girl and they decided to spend an evening with each other. Then their plans started which dress to wear, what will be the right place for the date, what to say each other, I will tell her this, what gift should I give him/her? These questions come in to mind and with more important question is how to make that date successful. A romantic evening with your partner spread sensation in your whole body. Preparation has to finish before that evening.

1. Location

Select a location nearby your well-known place. If you have any problem, then you can easily get help, as you know that place little bit. If you can arrange a garden restaurant and a table for two at the corner place where no one can easily spot you and disturb you.

2. Great Welcome

Welcome your partner with Bunch of flowers; Flowers have power to bring smile on face. If you really love youre your partner then take some red roses and arrange in sweet as you think she/he will like them. Welcome your partner with sweet smile and roses in your hands. See what happened. Just look into mirror. My guess is right; there is a sweet smile on your face.

3. Candle light

If possible light up some candles and see in our partners eyes. Talk on You will find the whole world there.

4. Soft Music

If you can arrange for a soft music in your background then its awesome. Play Soft music and then if possible ask your partner for dance. If you cant arrange then now everyone has mobile, play soft music on mobile.

5. Delicious food

Order a food that your partner likes to eat, a chilled bottle of wine please if you know anything about that place dont start your conversation with that topic.

6. Privacy

Maintain privacy, means avoid friend, switch off mobile phones, etc. Concentrate on your partners eyes and hear him/her voice only. This is time for just the two of you. No company, no distractions.

First Romantic evening is dream of everyones life with different ideas and tries to implement your ideas into reality.

Marina John is freelance author who exchange ideas, review in some specific areas as Dating, Romance, Friendship. She has been writing articles for http://www.freedatingservicesweb.com . For details contact marina at friends.marina@gmail.com Jessica Blog57506
Epiphanie Blog34001

PC Hardware: How Ego Can Cost Your Clients

You'll find that clients are sometimes just like children. They want to biggest, shiniest toy even though it may not be good for them. Your job as the virtual CIO is to make sure that they spend their money wisely and well.

What Does Your Client Really Need?

Look carefully at clients' software application requirements before you allow their emotional needs to drive tech PC hardware purchases. If a client's CFO spends most of a typical day crunching numbers in Microsoft Excel spreadsheets and communicating via e-mail in Microsoft Outlook, he or she really has only very basic PC hardware requirements. Thus, there might be a better way to ring greater bottom-line results.

Additionally, these consulting projects will be infinitely more profitable to your consulting firm than the slim profit margin on a high-end, commodity-like desktop PC hardware purchase.

What about Notebook PCs?

Although your clients can get some really useful multimedia features in high-end notebooks in the $4,000 to $5,000 price range, if the CEO of one of your main clients merely wants to access e-mail remotely, you easily could equip him or her with a reliable, high-performance, brand-name notebook for one-third to one-half of that price.

Use Your Knowledge To Help Your Clients

As your clients' virtual CIO and technology visionary, you have a huge responsibility. Don't allow clients' objective judgments and technology budgets to get seduced by superfluous bells and whistles.

When in doubt, ask yourself this basic question:

If my client took the $5,000 that was about to be spent on the Rolls Royce of notebooks and reallocated the amount toward computer consulting services, what kind of an impact on their business could my firm make with a $5,000 budget for a consulting project?

Copyright MMI-MMVII, Computer Consulting 101. All Worldwide Rights Reserved. {Attention Publishers: Live hyperlink in author resource box required for copyright compliance}

Joshua Feinberg, co-founder of Computer Consulting 101, helps computer consulting business owners get more steady, high-paying clients. Learn how you can too with free proven computer consulting secrets at http://www.ComputerConsulting101.comEuclide Blog70551
Kiley Blog98733

Some Simple Rules You Should Follow If You Want To Buy Designer Shoes On eBay.

If you are considering making that ultimate purchase of a pair of designer shoes on eBay then here are some simple rules that you should follow to make sure that the item you get is what you want and the price you pay is right.

1. Advanced Search

You will find when carrying out a search that there are lots of designer shoes for sale by sellers in the Far East (i.e., Malaysia), but you will often find that these are fakes or replicas and although cheap they will charge you high postage and packing costs to send them to you.

By carrying out an advanced search of a particular item it gives you the chance to choose lots of different options, so you can if you wish start your search by choosing womens designer shoes from one country or another, or as new items only or as a buy it now item or just for items that are being sold in the country where you live.

2. Shoe Size

You will find that most of the stores that are on eBay will provide you with a sizing chart which will help you to convert the size of the shoe from US to UK or to European sizes and vice versa. However, those items being sold in general auction listings (those which are not sold at an eBay store) it is a good idea to check the size of the shoes and what format that it is in (i.e., US, UK or European sizes). If you are unsure what size they are you can ask the seller to check the size or you could visit one of the eBay shoe stores and use their size chart.

3. Postage and Packaging Costs

It is very important and so that you will not be disappointed when you have won the shoes of your dreams to find that you have the same amount again to get them delivered to you. In some cases international delivery of items can be extremely high, so it is a good idea to check with the seller before bidding to confirm the cost of postage and packaging. If you decide to purchase a pair of shoes through an eBay store you will find that most of them offer a discount of postage and packaging if you purchase more than one item. It should be remembered than when you are bidding on an item you are actually committing your self to purchase it should you win the auction and this means that you are accepting the costs being charged for postage and packaging.

4. Are the shoes authentic?

Fortunately, nowadays eBay will not allow sellers to list any item that is a fake or a replica, but because of the large amount of people that are listing auctions on their site every day it is something that they police and enforce stringently. However, occasionally you will find an item that is either a fake or replica being auctioned and these are quite noticeable. Normally the photos being used are not clear (originals) and there does not seem to be an email address where you send questions to the seller to. So one way of making sure that the item you are buying is authentic is through one of the many eBay stores. People who have set up these stores are usually heavily involved in the eBay community and promote the right ways for carrying out an auction on eBay.

5. When do you shop?

It is strange but when people are listing items to sell on eBay they do not think about when the auction will finish and on occasion you may find that you have been able to bag a great bargain where designer shoes are concerned either around midnight or early in the morning. It all depends on where you live and it is a good idea to check out the auctions in your particular country, you may find that an auction that ends at either 6.00 am or 12.00 (midnight) will be far quieter or there will be no bidding going on at all compared to say at lunch time or during the early evening.

6. How to bid.

If the item you are interested in is a buy it now and you find that you are happy with the price being offered the simply bid and pay for it there and then.

However if you are involved in an auction for designer shoes that are highly desired, then you may find yourself entering into a bidding war with another bidder, but if you preserve you may be lucky enough to win the auction.

Always be aware of what your doing, you dont want to get carried away when involved in an auction, or you could you find yourself paying far more than you intended.

If you can do not bid early on the item early on in the auction as this will on cause the price to go up swiftly and you may end up competing for the item with another bidder.

Any item that you are interested and if you are able to leave the item on watch and bid at the last minute as this will do a couple of things for you:-

Firstly you will be able to see just how much the shoes are going to sell for and also how many people are bidding for this particular item.

Secondly, allow yourself enough to bid on the item say five minutes of less. Then as your skills improve you will find that you can leave it with only a couple of minutes to go before the auction when you will make your bid. Then all you need to do is enter your maximum bid amount and hope that no one comes in and bids on the item after you.

Finally, remember that the other bidders involved in the auction will have entered a maximum bid and you will not know what it is until you actually make a bid yourself. By allowing yourself a few minutes before the auction ends you will have time to increase the bid you have offered in order to win that pair of designer shoes that you want.

Allison Thompson, who has an invested a large amount of money in shoes and boots over the years and decided to build a site dedicated to designer shoes for all the women out there. If you would like to know more than please visit http://www.shoes.whatshewants.info.Carmen Blog69656
Lucie Blog6941

Laptop Security: Don't Leave Home Without It

Hundreds of thousands of laptops are lost or stolen each year. What if it happened to you? Think about all the valuable information stored in your laptop and the chaos that would enter your life should it become lost or stolen. Hours and hours of hard work on that special projectgone. Volumes of resource materials you collected for months, yearsgone. All the photos you unloaded from your camera and never got around to editing and printinggone. Most important, your personal information, your credit cards and bank statementsyou shudder to think about it. Laptop security should be every owners high priority. Not just protection from physical loss, but from the internal infestation of spyware, viruses, hackers and spammers. Your security needs to be maintained and updated. Dont take for granted that the security purchased with your laptop is sufficient. It may have been a three-month free trial subscription that you forgot to renew. Better check. Treat your laptop as you would your wallet, your purse, your fine jewelry. Protect it as you would your child. Here are some important steps for protecting your laptop.

Make sure your OS (Operating System) is secure. Windows 2000 Pro and XP Pro are secure. Windows 95/98/ME are notanyone could access your data.

Password protect your data.

Send in your manufacturers registration. If your stolen laptop is ever sent in for maintenance or repair, it can be traced through your registration.

Turn on your popup blocker. On the Internet, go to Tools/Internet Options. Click on the Privacy tab and check the box that says Block popups.

Install Anti-Spyware and Anti-Virus software, and keep it up to date.

Pay attention to Windows Updates and take the time to install them. A few minutes is all it takes. Its so easy to click "remind me later," but even if you have to restart your computer, its time well spent.

Simple Security Measures to Protect Your Laptop:

Carry your laptop in an inconspicuous bag. A fancy designer case appears to have "steal me" written all over it.

Never leave it unattended, not even for a minute.

Store it in a locked drawer when not in use.

Label it. Use conspicuous identity labels that would be difficult for a thief to remove. Engrave your name on the cover.

Internal Security--Protect Your Data:

Set the BIOS password. This is the first thing that appears when the machine is turned on. Most computers refuse to boot if the password attempt fails three times.

Set the Log In Password. Most systems require a log in password. If the password entered is incorrect, the system will refuse the user. Password protection is not 100% secure, but it certainly presents a difficult challenge to a thief.

Sensors: There are some very sophisticated sensors that can be purchased for added protection, such as a fingerprint sensor, or a gesture sensor. Your password could be a sequential pattern of movements of your head from sided to side, up or down. There are also alarm sensors that sound if someone touches your laptop when you are out of range. Additionally, there are fingerprint sensors, retinal sensors, or even your typing characteristics can be recorded for authentication. Sensors are fairly new and not yet a standard feature on laptops.

Tracking Devices: You can now buy software that enables your laptop to "check in" to a tracking center by using a signal. The tracking center service works with police departments and internet service providers to track and recover stolen laptops.

Personal Firewall: Install this extra layer of protection not only to prevent intruders from hacking into your system, but also prevent your information from leaking out.

NTFS: If you have Windows NT/2000/XP, use the NTFS filing system. NTFS stands for NT Filing System.

Disable the Guest Account, or at least assign it a very complex, hard-to-guess password.

Rename the Administrator Account. Dont use the word Admin in the name. A different name will make it harder for hackers to open the door. You could also create a "dummy" administrator account. Assign it a complex password, too hard to guess, and restrict all privileges. Then enable "auditing" so that you can tell if access has been attempted.

Disable the "Last Logged-In" user name. This will help prevent hackers from password guessing. You can find the instructions to do this on the installation CD for your laptop.

Encrypt your folders. Use EFS (Encrypting Filing System). When a folder is encrypted, any file stored in that folder is also encrypted. Encryption takes long to do and it also might slow the performance speed of your laptop, so you might choose to encrypt only the most sensitive files in your laptop.

Disable the Infrared Port. The port is for transmitting data and is not the method routinely chosen by most users. But did you know that someone sitting across the room from you could actually browse your files via the infrared port without you even knowing it? You can disable the port in the BIOS, or simply cover it with a piece of black electrical tape.

Back up your data before you travel. If some unfortunate circumstance occurs, your data can be retrieved by you. You could store all your data on a disk (encrypted and password protected, of course) and travel with an "empty" laptop. Remember to keep the disks on you and not in your laptop case! And watch out for metal detectors at the airports. Alternatively, you could send ahead your disks and retrieve them when you arrive at your destination.

External Laptop Security:

Cable Lock. You never know when it becomes necessary to leave your laptop unattended if even for a minute or two. Get a cable lock and use it. Make sure you tether it to something very sturdy and immovable.

Docking Station: At your office, many people you dont know may pass through. You never know which stranger might want your laptop. A docking station can be permanently fixed to your desktop and it locks the laptop in place. If you cant have a docking station, get into the habit of locking it in a drawer when not in use or when you have to leave the work station. You wouldnt leave your wallet on your desk when you leave, would you?

Airports are a prime location for thieves to snatch your belongings in seconds. Obviously, never leave them unattended. Carry-on, never check your laptop. Theres a risk of it getting lost in the airport luggage system. How can you secure your data while traveling? One company in particular, Absolute Software, a Canadian-based company, has developed software that can trace a lost or stolen laptop and even delete the data with a remote device. Another company in Colorado, Otter Products, makes durable carrying cases that are crushproof, water resistant, drop-resistant and securely locked for traveling.

In summary, you could virtually turn your laptop into a mini Fort Knox if you took advantage of all the security options available. But I hope this article has instilled enough paranoia in you to incite you into taking necessary precautions to insure the security of your laptop and subsequently your private life! Taking heed to simple security measures on a regular basis will become as habitual as putting on your seatbelt when you get into the car. When security measures are in place, you can then lighten up and go about your day worry-free.

Linda Marklund is writer and senior administrator for http://LaptopsOptions.com, which specializes in notebook reviews and laptop ratings.Geoffroy Blog10546
Avila Blog18326

Not All Spyware Is Malicious But Must Be Removed

Though not all Spyware is malicious they must be removed all the same. The reason being that they will ultimately expand the registry of the system and stall the programs and generally make the system unstable.

Some people believe that you may not always need to remove spyware because Spyware is not always malicious. There are many kinds of Spyware that can infect your PC. Most of them are, thankfully, not uploaded with malicious intent. But why take chances. First of all let us analyze how Spyware comes to get onto the system in the first place. People who browse the Internet come across many sites that offer free download. Clicking on these downloads may bring with it some program in the background or hidden from the user. This may be in the form of ActiveX controls or components. When we download certain programs the download program flashes a message requiring the user to allow the download of an ActiveX control without which the download will not work. This ActiveX control is registered in the CLSID files of the registry. Once the download is complete the ActiveX control stored as a .OCX file begins its stealthy work. Best Spyware removal programs are especially weary of ActiveX controls and remove any malicious looking .OCX files.

Not All Spyware Cause Damage

Spyware is not always illegal. You may have inadvertently agreed to the use of the Spyware by clicking on the 'agree' button without reading the agreement. This kind of Spyware, however, does not carry out any malicious activity. It just collects data off all the Internet sites you visit and mails the information to the host where it came from. This does not mean that you cannot remove it when you want. You can do so with certain free Spyware Virus removal programs that search and remove adware and Spyware as well. There are malicious and downright criminal Spyware as well. This type of Spyware locates personal information such as that pertaining to your credit card or online bank information and is used for criminal activities usually causing a lot of damage to you. The system must be regularly scanned with free Spyware Adware removal utilities and then the registry cleaned with a registry cleaner to make sure the system is always secure.

Run Anti Spyware Every Time You Think Of It

Spyware can be removed from the system by using anti Spyware programs. However the anti Spyware software does not remove the entries of the ware from the registry. Special free anti Spyware removal software is required to do just that. Free anti Spyware removal software such as Microsoft Spyware removal tool, Yahoo Spyware removal utility or any of the free Spyware removal tools can scan the registry for broken links and useless entries that are no longer linked to programs. These free Spyware removal tools will then remove these entries from the registry freeing up disk space and compacting the registry for efficient use.

Arvind Singh is admin and technical expert associated with development of computer security and performance enhancing software like Registry Cleaner, Window Cleaner, Anti Spam Filter etc. More information can be found at http://www.pcmantra.comHarold Blog12901
Korie Blog81640

Benefits of Online Degrees From Accredited Online Colleges & Universities

Little or No Commuting

Accredited online college degrees require little or no commuting, saving you time and money! Less time in your car means less gas burned and less care maintenance.

Complete Course Work at Your Convenience

Accredited online college degrees allow you to complete your course work when it is convenient for you. Just think - you can do your course work where and when you want to - whether it's during the day or in the middle of the night!

Save in Childcare Costs

Accredited online college degrees allow you to work from home, providing a tremendous savings in childcare costs!

Learning at Your Own Pace and Style

Accredited online college degrees are "learner centered". This means that you set the pace, sequencing, and style of learning according to what works best for you!

Easy Access to Learning Resources

Accredited online college degrees offer easy access to a full range of learning resources. Your Teachers, other students, and the library are only a click away!

Advanced Degrees Lead to Increased Salaries

Accredited online college degrees allow you to obtain advanced degrees that can lead to increased career salaries!

No Physical Accessibility Issues

Accredited online college degrees remove the issues surrounding building accessibility and the comfort (or should we say discomfort) of classroom chairs and heating or cooling!

Provides for Total Equality

Accredited online college degrees are great equalizers. You will work with fellow class members without regard for appearance, race, sex, ethnicity, or other common prejudices!

Broadens Your Overall Perspective

Accredited online college degrees allow you to broaden your perspective by interacting with people from other parts of the world!

Teaches Project Management Skills

Accredited online college degrees naturally help to teach you project management and distance collaboration skills. These skills will help you in your professional life by teaching you how to work on virtual teams within your own company!

Nancy Lambert is an executive for Accredited-Online-Colleges.com. Accredited-Online-Colleges.com provides information on hundreds of degrees offered online through accredited colleges and universities. From online certificates to Associates, Bachelors, Masters and PhD degrees, Accredited-Online-Colleges.com helps students and adults discover the advantages of earning their degree online.Harmonie Blog51476
Firmin Blog30612

A Quick and Exciting History of Viking Pool Cues

Almost fifty years ago in Wisconsin, Viking pool cues came into existence. Little did Gordon Hart, the creator of the carefully designed cues, know that they would quickly sweep the nation. His humble operation in the basement of his pool room was welcomed by plenty of admiration as his Viking cues were recognized as some of the best in the billiards industry.

In the 1970's and 1980's, Hart's small company continued to grow and grow based on their own merits. However, when the film "The Color of Money" hit the big screen in 1986, the success of Viking cues could no longer be avoided. Viking, like so many other companies in the billiard industry, didn't know what hit them when "The Color of Money" came out, as it sent waves of change through billiard halls across America -- suddenly, people discovered how fun and exciting it was to play pool. Pool became a legitimate sport almost overnight!

Signal the widespread appearance of the Viking pool cue. Viking cues were practically a household name by the late 1980's, and Hart felt he must take advantage of this new societal phenomenon. With the help of his wife Nancy, the two worked on an aggressive advertising campaign to help get Viking cue sticks into every home with a pool table. But getting the word out was only part of their strategy.

Additionally, Viking cues were being constructed with a new vision for detail and innovation. They were created to be distinctly unique from their peers. And now, in the 21st century with the new and advanced F-series, owners can rest assured that their Viking pool cue is not like a typical pool cue. This is because it's built differently. Most pool cues are made with steel and metal to connect the wood pieces. But Viking connects the pieces with finger-joints that allow for maximum flexibility.

And Viking cues are of course just as straight and strong as the best in the industry, as the wood is seasoned for up to 24 months. Each Viking cue is a modern day tribute of art and talent to the brands history of quality. So you're not just getting long-lasting, game-enhancing Viking cues, but a billiard cue that looks as sharp as its aim. Just because Viking cues focus on the professional level of play and craftsmanship doesn't mean you need to save up for months and months to get one. The Hart's advertising strategy also included creating cues for average billiards enthusiast without sacrificing quality. As you can see, Viking cues has had a dramatic history that ring's true with the American dream.

Jason Marco runs a great billiard supply store with discount prices where you can find Viking cues and other great cue products. Click here: http://www.thepoolhustler.com/pool-cues/viking-cues.htmlMarc Blog94991
Legra Blog92395

Bathroom Remodeling Donts - What Not To Do

Bathroom remodeling takes time, careful planning, and precise execution. The objective of a bathroom remodel is to upgrade the appearance of your bathroom with the latest bathroom fixtures, designs, and styles. However, bathroom remodeling can be a bit overwhelming. Even if you dont install your new fixtures and furnishings yourself, simply selecting that perfect bathroom vanity, sink, and mirror can be more complicate than you think, especially if youve never remodeled a bathroom before.

Below are a few tips on what NOT to do when remodeling your bathroom. Use these tips to avoid common mistakes and ensure that the look you intend for your bathroom is actually what turns out.

Bathroom Remodeling Tip #1: Dont Wing It

Some people think that remodeling a bathroom is a piece of cake and simply involves swapping out an old sink or vanity with a new one; however, because the bathroom involves plumbing, you need to carefully plan out your remodel. You need to make sure the new fixtures you select fit the space and the plumbing of your bathroom, or at least understand that rearranging the layout of your bathroom may involve rerouting some pipes (which is an arduous task). So, before you even think about the new vanity or sink you want to buy, establish the basic layout of your new bathroom. If the layout is staying the same, take note of the plumbing layout and keep that in mind when youre shopping for a new sink, toilet, or vanity. If youre rearranging a few items, draw out how you want your bathroom to look, measure everything to make sure your vision is realistic, and then see if you need to reroute any plumbing. In some cases, you wont know if your new bathroom layout will call for new plumbing to be installed, so call a plumber and get his/her professional opinion. After youve mapped everything out and established the basic layout of your new bathroom design, then you can start shopping for your new lavish bathroom furnishings.

Bathroom Remodeling Tip #2: Dont Buy the First Thing You See

The key to successfully remodeling your bathroom is to shop around. You never want to buy the first thing you find. If youre not already set on a specific vanity or sink design, go online and check out the latest bathroom furnishings. This way, youll get a better idea of the number of different styles available without having to leave your home. Shopping around will also give you the opportunity to comparison shop. Today, modern bathroom furnishings are more available and affordable than ever before. Thanks to wholesalers who purchase bathroom furnishings in bulk, you can get that elegant vessel sink youve always wanted at a price that wont bust your remodeling budget. Before you buy, you better shop around.

Bathroom Remodeling Tip #3: If Dont Know, Dont Install It Yourself

Getting a new toilet is a different experience from getting a new bed. With a bed, you pay the extra $50 to get it delivered and put in your home. However, with a toilet, getting it delivered and put in your home is only the beginning. Bathroom remodeling almost always involves plumbing work. Even if you arent rerouting pipes or drainage systems, installing new bathroom fixtures (such as a toilet, sink, and faucet) takes a little plumbing know-how. However, not all of us are as handy as we would like to be. And when youre dealing with running water, its important to know how to properly uninstall and install bathroom fixtures. So, if youre a novice at plumbing, call a professional. Many bathroom remodeling shops offer installation with the purchase of their products (for an added fee) or know of plumbers in your area who can install your new bathroom fixtures for you. Either way, if youve never installed a toilet, sink, or faucet, or had a bad previous experience with plumbing, its worth the money to have your new bathroom furnishings installed right.

When it comes to bathroom remodeling, its very important to plan out your new layout, shop around, and install your new bathroom furnishings properly. Failing to do so could cost you more money in the long run and result in a less-than-perfect remodel.

Modern Bathroom offers the latest bathroom furnishings and fixtures at discount prices. From contemporary bathroom sinks to modern bathroom vanities, youll find the bathroom furnishings you need for less at http://www.modernbathroom.comMangue Blog89473
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Ways To Hide Files On Your Computer

At some point in time, perhaps on your family computer, or your own computer, you will develop, collect, and store some important personal files on your hard drive that are strictly for your needs and purposes. These digital files may be so important to you, that under no circumstances, should anyone ever be able to access and see them. Some of these personal and business files may include documents, spreadsheets, emails, pdfs, text files, invoices, pictures, videos, and mp3s. These files may be so sensitive in nature, that you realize a need to prevent your spouse, kids, friends, or anyone for that matter, from viewing and accessing them. Perhaps, you may even need to hide porn or other explicit files. Just imagine if your spouse, or little ones at home, did a file search for all picture files and movies that were on your computer. Hopefully the results wouldn't expose them to anything that you wouldn't want them to see. Just imagine what could happen, if your children at home decided to fool around with your work and files that was listed in the recent documents menu. Ok, you get the point. And thus, this question is raised: How do I hide files and folders so that they won't be discovered?

There are several ways in which you can hide files: You can put your files within a folder and apply the hidden attribute to the folder. You can bury your files deeply in subdirectories within subdirectories and hope that no one browses using Windows Explorer. You can change the file name and file extension of your file to something unique and strange, so that no one recognizes it, or you can purchase a file hiding software security application such as a folder lock or folder hider with password protection.

All of the above methods may be your solution to hide your important files. It simply depends on the significant importance of your files and level of security you need. You can apply the hidden attribute to a folder or file by choosing to do so within its properties. This is a simple way of hiding a folder in Windows XP. However, the files will still show up if a user sets the option "show hidden files and folders" within the folders options. Another way to hide a file is simply by concealing it by dumping it into a folder you think no one will ever access. However, you run the risk of it appearing within the results of a Windows Search and having it displayed in the documents list. Another way to hide a file is by renaming it along with its file extension so that no one recognizes it or is able to open it using its standard program. Although this method could possibly work for you, you would have to waste time renaming it and changing it back to the correct extension.

And thus, the following question is raised: What is a quick and sure proof way to hide files in windows so that they won't appear within Windows Explorer and won't be displayed in the results of a Windows search? Your solution: A simple and easy to use folder security software utility that will allow you to hide files and folders and make them reappear all with a simple hotkey. Supreme Folder Hider is such a solution that will save you time and will provide you with an extra added sense of security. Supreme Folder Hider prevents all file access from Windows Explorer, the command prompt, shortcuts, and most recently used document lists.

Clinton Brown is a consultant for FileHidingSoftware.com, a well established file and folder security software company. He has been working in the tech sector for over 12 years performing duties such as tech support, technical training, application development, and internet marketing. Do you need to prevent anyone from seeing your files? Find out how to hide files and folders at http://www.filehidingsoftware.comLeland Blog97924
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A Quiz: Test Your Internet Marketing Knowledge

Question - If I need to target a specific region, is it helpful to have a domain from that country?

Answer - Yes. Both hosting location and domain extension matter and can influence search engine ranking in regional search engines. If you are attempting to target a specific country, you could very well benefit from purchasing a domain with that countries extension and hosting the website on a server that is located in that country. The larger country specific search engines, generally rank local domains higher in the search results.

Question - What is the difference between Google's aging delay and the so called sandbox?

Answer - Great questions. The aging delay is often labeled and assumed to be the same as Google's famous sandbox (that may or may not exist). The Google aging delay is not a penalty, it is merely a filter. Google does not feel new websites are necessarily "trustworthy" so while they acknowledge that the new websites exist they don't generally include them in their search index results. They continue to monitor the new websites over time, paying particular attention to who and how many websites are linking to the new site. Gradually, as the site matures and gains a reasonable amount of links over time, Google will include the site as part of its search results. The sandbox refers to websites that are usually removed from the search index results. The removal is typically a penalty for what Google views as poor behavior as it relates to search engine optimization, spam, or web content.

Question - What does the Can-Spam Act actually mean?

Answer - CAN-SPAM is an acronym for Controlling the Assault of Non-Solicited Pornography and Marketing Act. The CAN-SPAM Act of 2003, came into effect in the United States as law on January 1, 2004. It establishes requirements for those who send commercial email,and spells out penalties for individuals and companies that choose to violate the law. The primary purpose of the act is to restrict the advertising or promoting of a commercial product or service (including content or a website) by defining guidelines.

Besides spelling out the penalties, the CAN-SPAM Act prohibits false or misleading header information. This means that you cannot "spoof" the 'to', 'from' or routing information, the sender must be accurately reflected.

The CAN-SPAM act also prohibits deceptive subject lines. In other words, the subject must relate to the actual message contents. Email recipients must be provided a method to opt-out of any future email. The opt-out requests must be complied within 10 days. The final large contingent that is stipulated by the CAN-SPAM act is that commercial emails must be identified as advertisements and must include the senders valid postal address.

Question - What is a sticky website and how do I make my website 'sticky'?

Answer - A sticky website refers to a website that attracts and retains customers. The best way to create a website that will be continually visited and returned to is by producing and creating new content. Give your website's visitors a reason to come back. Another component to stickiness is a good communication channel. This might mean providing the content via RSS, so visitors are immediately aware of any new information available. It might also mean an opt-in newsletter that is sent on a regularly scheduled basis.

Question - What is the Long Tail, and how do I get one?

Answer - The Long Tail pertains to a relatively simple concept, that capturing all of the the small volume, and will result in a collectively large volume. With regards to the keyword long tail, the idea is that there are only a few words or phrases that receive a large number of searchers, but there are a huge number of obscure phrases or keywords that receive a small number of searches each month. By capturing top ranking for all of the less popular terms you could in effect receive more traffic than you would if you had top ranking for the popular terms.

Capturing the keyword long tail, is very difficult. It requires massive amounts of unique content. Webmasters have generally found the easiest way to generate unique copy is through user-generated content (ie. forums, blog comments, or user reviews).

Question - What is deep linking? And How do I deep link my website?

Answer - Deep linking refers to links to all levels of a particular website. A website that has an extensive network of quality deep links, shows true value. By having incoming links to multiple webpages at all directory levels, the website is perceived as content rich by search engines. A website that only receives incoming links to the "front page" will not fair as well in search engines because the assumption is that it is not a content rich website.

Copyright 2006 Sharon Housley

Sharon Housley manages marketing for FeedForAll http://www.feedforall.com software for creating, editing, publishing RSS feeds and podcasts. In addition Sharon manages marketing for NotePage http://www.notepage.net a wireless text messaging software company.Leda Blog42873
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All You Need To Know About Airfare Deals And Great Last Minute Travel Getaways.

Ah, there's nothing better than taking a vacation. Daydreaming about an island breeze seducing you into an afternoon sleep or planning your hiking adventure, any concept of an escape is always welcome. Unlike some people, I absolutely love planning my vacations. I love finding information on different purposes and looking for those great hotel and airfare deals. The best hotel and airfare deals are usually found when purchasing a vacation package, but once in a while, you can get great discounts when purchasing separately.

The internet has tons of sites that will gladly help you find the airfare deals you are looking for. I have found and been very frightened with several places because of their truthfulness. I booked an amazing airfare deal through Orbitz last year, and saved more money than I would have otherwise. I can't tell you which travel sites are the best because I've compared many of them before and found that most of them are pretty much offering the same exact deal, just perhaps a few dollars different.

In all honesty, my travel agent wasn't charging me much more than those sites were. Sure, it was maybe $20 more, but maybe that's worth the convenience of having the agent take care of all the details for you. I suppose it depends on your budget and need for someone else to take care of all the details.

My absolute favorite vacation was a trip to California. I live on the east coast so a trip to the west coast was very exciting. I spent an entire week comparing hotel prices and costs of entertainment. Once I had my destinations planned, I spent a few days researching airfare deals. It actually amazed me at how different each airline was with its cost. I did manage to find some great airfare deals online and took advantage of them.

A lot of resorts, such as Sandals, allow you to purchase a package with includes airfare and hotel accommodations. I've never taken the time to break down all of the costs and see which purchase is the best way to go, but in my opinion, instead of searching for amazing airline deals and hotel rates, go for the package. Let someone else take care of all of the details for you. That makes vacation planning much less demanding.

Be cautious of those amazing airfare deals that have lots of restrictions in fine print. Read all of those tiny words and make sure you aren't purchasing something that you don't really want. Sometimes you can get airfare deals that require many layovers or late night flights. I am personally fine with taking a night flight but can't stand layovers.

Once I'm on a plane, don't make me move until I'm at my destination. If those restrictions don't bother you, you may find yourself getting some great money saving airfare deals. Whatever hotel you stay at or airline you choose, just make sure you have a wonderful vacation.

Tavis J. Cooper provides readers with up-to-date commentaries, articles, and reviews for http://www.the-traveller-directory.com as well as http://www.all-leisure-guide.com related information.Cible Blog39049
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Playstation

Playstation

By the end of this article, you should have gained enough new knowledge on this subject to be able to explain its main points to another person.

The PlayStation 3 is the third videotape ready console of the PlayStation call from Sony notebook Entertainment. It is the successor to the awfully successful PlayStation 2. The PlayStation 3 competes with Microsoft's Xbox 360 and Nintendo's Wii as part of the seventh generation of videotape ready consoles.

The important configuration of the console has a 20 GB inner hard send. The "premium" make of the PlayStation 3 comes with an inner 60 GB 2.5" soap ATA hard send, IEEE 802.11b/g Wi-Fi connectivity, various moment recall license readers (SD/MultiMedia license, CompactFlash, recall affix) and skin a chrome-decorated neat. Both consoles mark a silver-decorated textbook logo on the top face of the approach. The hard send is upgradeable, with the ordinary soap ATA boundary. No formal Wi-Fi or moment recall license adapters have yet been open by Sony, while procedure for such add-ons are in place. Nevertheless, as both values mark four USB 2.0 ports, wireless networking and moment recall license assist can already be obtained through the use of broadly presented outside USB adapters. No high-definition videotape cables are involved; instead, a composite videotape/stereo audio cable ships with the approach. While Sony has open an formal PS3 factor cable, the formal PS2 factor cables are compatible with the PS3, as both consoles use the same AV Multi Out jack. The converse is firm as well; formal PS3 factor cables work with the PS2. In tramp 2007, papers scraped by Sony with the FCC hinted at the launch of a new text of the PS3 with an 80 GB hard send. In April 2007, a Bloomberg word quoted Sony spokesman Satoshi Fukuoka as aphorism that the band is genuinely considering introducing a standard with a bigger hard send.

The PlayStation 3 is based on open and overtly presented application programming boundarys. Sony has unusual numerous technologies and approved numerous sublicensing agreements to start an higher software development kit for developers. In addition, in 2005 Sony purchased SN Systems, a previous source of Microsoft Windows-based development tools for a make of console platforms; plus PlayStation 2, GameCube, PlayStation Portable and Nintendo DS to start additional GNU development tools.

What we have explored up to now is the most important information you need to know. Now, lets dig a little deeper.

Open ordinarys for OpenGL, matrix algorithms, and fuss facts are precise by the Khronos Group, and are projected to work with nVidia's Cg programming tongue. sight facts are stored with COLLADA v1.4, an open, XML-based scrape plan. Rendering uses PSGL, a tailored make of OpenGL ES 1.0 (OpenGL ES 2.0 yielding excluding for the use of Cg instead of GLSL), with extensions specifically estimated at the PS3. Other specifications involve OpenMAX, a collection of speedily, oppose-platform tools for broad "media acceleration," such as matrix calculations, and OpenVG, for hardware-accelerated 2D vector graphics. These specifications have GPL, open for any use, and/or commercial implementations by third parties. Sublicensed technology involves perfect ready engines, physics libraries, and unusual libraries. Engines involve Epic's replica engine 3.0. Physics libraries involve AGEIA's PhysX SDK, NovodeX, and Havok's physics and spirit engines. Other tools involve Nvidia's Cg 1.5 (a C-like shading tongue, which HLSL was based leading), SpeedTree RT by Interactive records Visualization, Inc. (high-trait virtual flora in genuine time), and Kynogon's Kynapse 4.0 "large magnitude A.I.".

Sony has considered with IPv6, the next generation of the Internet Protocol. Some titles, such as Genji: existence of the Blade and pucker Racer 7, tolerate users to settle 4-5 GB of ready facts to the hard send, which dramatically improves fill time. In Genji, for example, the cached facts reduces fill time from 15 seconds to around 4 seconds. This has been proven.

Just, Sony announced a new toolset that will be open to all developers known as 'PlayStation border' that will proposal awfully optimized lightweight libraries for cabal SPUs. These libraries will supply system for spirit, compression (estimated to awfully help filling time), and many more skin. The container will also supply 'GCM repeat', a robust RSX profiling tool to tolerate developers to increase the most out of the PlayStation 3's graphics disfigure.

As they say, knowledge equals power, so continue to read information on this topic until you feel you are adequately educated on the subject.

Marc Gnzel write many articles for blogs and news sites. He also help to create one of the biggest gamer searchengines in English and German.Leger Blog22018
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Weight Loss - How To Jump Start Your Weight Loss Plan Before Christmas

Be In Charge of Your Cravings
Check Your Walking Shoes
Make Your Weight Loss Plans
Only Have Healthy Choices In Your Kitchen
Your Day Should Start With Breakfast
Progress Is Better Than Perfection
Watch Your Portions

Be In Charge Of Your Cravings

In a survey of busy mums, it was found that their biggest challenge to weight loss was combating their cravings for foods loaded with calories and so sabotaging their efforts of losing weight.

The problem is, mums have such a heavy workload, they don't make the time to sit down and eat a healthy, leisurely meal.

So missing meals or eating the wrong kinds of foods will confuse the body.

If a meal is missed, the body will think, Hey there's going to be famine, food is scarce, I'd better store what is available just in case.' When this happens, the food is stored as fat. This is of course the opposite of the chosen game plan that is to be on a weight loss diet.

Or the harassed mum will grab something quick and easy to eat, but her choices may be unwise. Something sweet or starchy will make her feel full and satisfied, but an hour or so later and she will be hungry once again.

What can the busy mum eat that will keep her cravings in control and make sure she does eat healthily?

Planning ahead may help. If she is going to be out of the house for some time, a bag of snacks for when the rumbly tummy occurs or hunger pangs make themselves known.

What should she include in the bag?

Some unsalted nuts
Dried Fruit

Craving for something sweet she should give in to it. If she wants chocolate, she should have chocolate. Instead of eating a whole bar of it, she should just take a few small pieces, then not chew it but allow it to melt slowly in her mouth, savouring the taste.

It would be better not to avoid the foods that are craved, but rather eat them in small portions.

Check Your Walking Shoes

72% of mums who took part in the survey said they only had about 30 minutes a day or less to be able to exercise.

So no matter what exercise you choose to do, as long as it's regular, it would be better than not exercising at all.

Join forces with a neighbour; take the dog for a walk, Just walk, doing ten more steps each day will help to burn more calories.

Make Your Weight Loss Plans

How much time each day have you available to exercise?
Have you stocked up your kitchen with low fat healthy foods?
Don't forget healthy snacks, for example, fruit, nuts, small yoghurts and low fat cheese. Snacks high in fibre and lean Protein will keep you feeling full and satisfied between meals.

Can you find the time to visit the gym on a regular basis?

Make out a schedule (timetable) don't be too hard on yourself. Give yourself a treat at least once a day. A particular food you enjoy, just keep it to small portions but don't cheat, it's your reward for doing something positive towards your weight loss goals. Have you got a book you have been wanting to read, but you never seem to find the time. Work that into your timetable. Once again give yourself a treat by reading a few pages after you've done some exercise.

Put your timetable where you can see it regularly. On the fridge door, on your makeup mirror, on the bathroom mirror. Maybe on your wardrobe door. Wherever you put it, be sure to notice it. It will keep you motivated so you will reach your weight loss goals.

Only Have Healthy Choices In Your Kitchen

If you have nutritious foods in your kitchen it will be easier to work them into your diet.

Always have fruit and vegetables ready cut up, so you can just eat it when you feel like it.

Before snacking on chocolate, eat some fruit or vegetable. This will take the edge off your appetite, so you will eat less chocolate.

Your Day Should Start With Breakfast

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Why is this?

Breakfast = break fast. It is the first meal of the day. Normally you will not have had anything to eat since the day before, could be eight hours. You have to eat because your blood sugar is low. If it is too low, you may have fainting attacks.

Not eating breakfast may mean that later in the day you will eat unwisely due to being very hungry. This will make a mess of your weight loss plans.

If you can work fibre, lean protein and fruit into your breakfast, you will be doing yourself a big favour.

Progress Is Better Than Perfection

Make a habit of eating healthily, and exercising regularly, this will become part of your life.

Even if you have not reached your anticipated goals, anything in the right direction is good. You are making progress. Be proud of yourself.

You don't have to have reached perfection; progress however small should be applauded.

Still Watch Your Portions Even After You Have Reached Your Target Weight

Congratulations on reaching your Target Weight.

Now is not the time to go back to your old eating habits, or you may end up where you started needing to go on a Weight Loss Diet.

Continue keeping a check on what you eat.
Watch your portion sizes.
Exercise regularly.

And you should be able to enjoy your weight loss for many years to come.

Copyright (c) 2006 Eva Moffat

Eva Moffat has helped many people with their Weight Loss problems over the years. Now it is your turn to be helped. For more of Evas practical help, visit Evas Weight Loss Site http://eva-moffats-free-weight-loss-info.blogspot.comBoris Blog91552
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