Author : Bill Carey
The time is now to get in on year end deals from banks and mortgage companies who are carrying foreclosure properties (REO real estate owned). Foreclosures - REO's are an on going problem for the mortgage industry at a 52 year high, banks and mortgage companies are overloaded with homes.To get your best deals in foreclosure properties follow these tips:Work with a Real Estate Agent - agents are ready and willing to work with investors, remember that agents expect to do business now don't drag them all over town wasting their time and your time. Be ready to buy. Some commissions are as low as 1.5% that's $375.00 to an agent on a $50,000 property which is normally $750.00 not much income after all the hoops the mortgage companies will make them jump through.Top Agents – In today's real estate world the top agents can put you into a VIP or email program where you will receive daily emails' with complete property descriptions and photos. You go check out the properties you are interest in and call the agent when you want to go inside. This comes with a price the agent will expect you to sign a Buyer Agent agreement for this service. Agents will bend over backwards for you if you treat them fairly and don't expect them to work for nothing.MLS and REO Services – Access to property information is pretty easy today if you know where to look. You can get access to the public side of the MLS and find most properties for sale you will not be able to do the fine tuned search that your agent can. Banks and mortgage companies all have web sites you can access to hunt for properties; again your agent can get more detailed information and be on an email list as a registered licensed agent. You can do all the work yourself with out an agent, but you will need an agent to make an offer.HUD – VA – Government Owned – The only access you will have to these properties is through an agent who is registered with the agency. Some properties have special keyed locks and only registered agents have the keys. The process is more detailed and closing by year end is not as important, this is the government they don't have share holders to answer to.Be Ready To Buy – Have your financing in place line up your hard money lenders, self-directed IRA's, private lenders, partners, credit cards, and cash, 2nd mortgage your home. What ever you plan on using to buy an investment property be ready and able to close before year end to get the best discounts.Bill Carey with over 30 years in real estate sales, investments, and home building offers a unique perspective to the buying and selling process of residential real estate for F*R*E*E consumer information and reports log on to http://www.CharlotteNCExecutiveHomes.com and see
"Insider Real Estate Secrets Revealed"
...a must-read for Home-Owners and Renters!
It's a F*R*E*E 12-lesson e-course covering more than 20 topics exposing the realities behind buying and selling a home.
It Could Make(or Save) You Thousands of DollarsSee http://www.BillCareyRealtor.com and sign up for our monthly e-newsletter with tips for buyers, sellers, home owners and soon to be home owners.(Your Comments are Welcome)
Category : Finance:Real-Estate
วันจันทร์ที่ 24 พฤศจิกายน พ.ศ. 2551
วันศุกร์ที่ 8 สิงหาคม พ.ศ. 2551
Preformed Ponds Manufactured from New Rubber/Plastic Composite More Durable and Resistant to Wear
Author : Gerry Fung
Traditionally, liner kits have presented many difficulties for the beginner pond gardener. Since every liner pond shape is different, pond gardeners must customize their own pond, ensure that it is level, and ensure that it does not have excessive wrinkling. A flexible preformed pond, on the other hand, is easy to install. The flexible preformed shell already has a pre-defined shape, yet it is easily transportable, since a typical folding kit comes in a box that can fit into your car truck (I.e. it is one-sixth the size of a regular preformed kit). Thus, installation involves merely removing the pond from the kit, unfolding it, digging a hole, and inserting the pond shell into the hole.One common complaint of customers in the past has been that flexible pond shells have been difficult to unfold. To address this problem, as of January 2006, Algreen Products has introduced a new line of flexible preformed pond kits which are manufactured from a novel blend of rubber, nylon, and plastic. Using the new rubber-based composite, Algreen's ponds are now extremely easy to unfold. Because of the flexibility offered by the rubber component, which is supplemented by the stiffness offered by the plastic component, the ponds are also many times more resistant to breakage and wear.According to Melissa Mulligan, sales and marketing director at Algreen Products, "This new innovation makes our flexible ponds easier to unfold, more durable, and more resistant to wear and breakage this composite will revolutionize the preformed pond business."Algreen is currently incorporating the proprietary composite material into their line of folding pond shells and streamlets. The new pond shells and streamlets are being introduced in a black colour, and are currently available from www.buypond.com. The composite has also been introduced in their 144 gallon granite pond kits.Each Algreen pond kit comes complete with:
A rubber/plastic composite pond shell and streamlet (sizes detailed above).
A SuperFlo submersible pump with a built-in pre-filter, telescopic riser, and a diverter.
Fountain heads that allow you to set up a fountain in the middle of your pond.
Tubing and clamps.
2 silk pond lilies.
A 20-year manufacturer's warranty on the pond/streamlet, and a 2-year manufacturer's warranty on the pump.
A free SuperGlo underwater light!
For more information about preformed ponds, please go to http://www.gardenSM.com.
Category : Home-and-Family:Landscaping-Gardening
Traditionally, liner kits have presented many difficulties for the beginner pond gardener. Since every liner pond shape is different, pond gardeners must customize their own pond, ensure that it is level, and ensure that it does not have excessive wrinkling. A flexible preformed pond, on the other hand, is easy to install. The flexible preformed shell already has a pre-defined shape, yet it is easily transportable, since a typical folding kit comes in a box that can fit into your car truck (I.e. it is one-sixth the size of a regular preformed kit). Thus, installation involves merely removing the pond from the kit, unfolding it, digging a hole, and inserting the pond shell into the hole.One common complaint of customers in the past has been that flexible pond shells have been difficult to unfold. To address this problem, as of January 2006, Algreen Products has introduced a new line of flexible preformed pond kits which are manufactured from a novel blend of rubber, nylon, and plastic. Using the new rubber-based composite, Algreen's ponds are now extremely easy to unfold. Because of the flexibility offered by the rubber component, which is supplemented by the stiffness offered by the plastic component, the ponds are also many times more resistant to breakage and wear.According to Melissa Mulligan, sales and marketing director at Algreen Products, "This new innovation makes our flexible ponds easier to unfold, more durable, and more resistant to wear and breakage this composite will revolutionize the preformed pond business."Algreen is currently incorporating the proprietary composite material into their line of folding pond shells and streamlets. The new pond shells and streamlets are being introduced in a black colour, and are currently available from www.buypond.com. The composite has also been introduced in their 144 gallon granite pond kits.Each Algreen pond kit comes complete with:
A rubber/plastic composite pond shell and streamlet (sizes detailed above).
A SuperFlo submersible pump with a built-in pre-filter, telescopic riser, and a diverter.
Fountain heads that allow you to set up a fountain in the middle of your pond.
Tubing and clamps.
2 silk pond lilies.
A 20-year manufacturer's warranty on the pond/streamlet, and a 2-year manufacturer's warranty on the pump.
A free SuperGlo underwater light!
For more information about preformed ponds, please go to http://www.gardenSM.com.
Category : Home-and-Family:Landscaping-Gardening
วันศุกร์ที่ 1 สิงหาคม พ.ศ. 2551
Isn't It Time For You to Get the Online Degree From the Best University?
Author : Saad Saleem
Top jobs are like a lottery; you have to be “In it†to win it. “In it†means you have to be a player with a right degree, masters or PhD to be in the game of top jobs. But if you don’t have it you will not be able to join the game of top jobs. It’s just simple as that. Luckily online universities and colleges have made it possible for anyone to become a player.Most people would like to be in the game but unfortunately they search and read the rules again and again without any outcome. Today there are 100s of online universities and colleges that offer numerous online degree and diploma courses and therefore, leave you with no excuse about a degree that you never had a chance to acquire.The only problem is that you have so many different universities, colleges, courses etc that it is difficult to choose one. The first thing you would need to decide about is your criteria, what course you want to do? Can you afford it? Have you got the time and are you ready to make a commitment to give time to your studies? Are you self-motivated? If the answer is yes then bingo you have got it all.After that the only thing you need to do is to pick one of the 100s of universities and colleges and enroll in a course. It’s easy, isn’t it? Or may be not so easy.The things to consider about choosing a university or college would obviously starts from the cost. Some universities and colleges are expensive so might not be within your budget, but most of them are relatively cheaper than traditional one. Don’t forget you will be saving on traveling, outfits etc anyway doesn’t matter whichever you choose.Convenience is also another great advantage of online courses. In most universities you can enroll in anytime of the year. You can carry on with your life and still manage to log in when you have time and continue with your studies. The question to consider is how many days you need to log in and study in a week? Some Universities require you to log in about 4 days a week, while others are not so strict.The accreditation is another important aspect, which you must consider. Universities and colleges are normally regulated and supervised by the regional authorities. There were some fake universities and colleges around but luckily these types don’t last that long and normally disappear quickly. You can find some good and reputable universities and colleges.Another thing, which is important, is the duration of the course, some universities or colleges requires a commitment of at least 2 years while others, which are also accredited institutes, may issue you a degree based upon your previous work experiences. You can find them as well on the above website address.Now its up to you to either get into the game and become a player or continue with your life and your search for a better future.Saad Saleem writes on a variety of subjects including online education. All his articles may be reproduced provided that an active link is included to http://www.friends4study.com and/or http://www.schoolsearch.be
Category : Adsense
Top jobs are like a lottery; you have to be “In it†to win it. “In it†means you have to be a player with a right degree, masters or PhD to be in the game of top jobs. But if you don’t have it you will not be able to join the game of top jobs. It’s just simple as that. Luckily online universities and colleges have made it possible for anyone to become a player.Most people would like to be in the game but unfortunately they search and read the rules again and again without any outcome. Today there are 100s of online universities and colleges that offer numerous online degree and diploma courses and therefore, leave you with no excuse about a degree that you never had a chance to acquire.The only problem is that you have so many different universities, colleges, courses etc that it is difficult to choose one. The first thing you would need to decide about is your criteria, what course you want to do? Can you afford it? Have you got the time and are you ready to make a commitment to give time to your studies? Are you self-motivated? If the answer is yes then bingo you have got it all.After that the only thing you need to do is to pick one of the 100s of universities and colleges and enroll in a course. It’s easy, isn’t it? Or may be not so easy.The things to consider about choosing a university or college would obviously starts from the cost. Some universities and colleges are expensive so might not be within your budget, but most of them are relatively cheaper than traditional one. Don’t forget you will be saving on traveling, outfits etc anyway doesn’t matter whichever you choose.Convenience is also another great advantage of online courses. In most universities you can enroll in anytime of the year. You can carry on with your life and still manage to log in when you have time and continue with your studies. The question to consider is how many days you need to log in and study in a week? Some Universities require you to log in about 4 days a week, while others are not so strict.The accreditation is another important aspect, which you must consider. Universities and colleges are normally regulated and supervised by the regional authorities. There were some fake universities and colleges around but luckily these types don’t last that long and normally disappear quickly. You can find some good and reputable universities and colleges.Another thing, which is important, is the duration of the course, some universities or colleges requires a commitment of at least 2 years while others, which are also accredited institutes, may issue you a degree based upon your previous work experiences. You can find them as well on the above website address.Now its up to you to either get into the game and become a player or continue with your life and your search for a better future.Saad Saleem writes on a variety of subjects including online education. All his articles may be reproduced provided that an active link is included to http://www.friends4study.com and/or http://www.schoolsearch.be
Category : Adsense
วันอาทิตย์ที่ 27 กรกฎาคม พ.ศ. 2551
How to Design Your Own Christmas Quilling Patterns
Author : Mandy Buchanan
Looking for Christmas quilling patterns for your Christmas cards or perhaps to quill
Christmas decorations? Why not make your own? There really is only one simple secret
to creating your own quilling patterns - draw pictures using the shapes you know how to
quill.
A very simple pattern that I created using only coils, squares, triangles and a single
diamond was a christmas tree with presents around it. Three large triangles formed
the Christmas tree itself with three brown squares as the trunk of the Christmas tree.
I used the single yellow diamond to decorate the top of the Christmas tree with a few
coils as baubles on the Christmas tree. A couple of colored squares I placed around the
based as presents. If you know quilling this is a really simple pattern but at the same
time really effective for this time of year.
Try putting shapes together in different ways to form new shapes to make more complex
patterns. For example use three triangles in making the manger, but put the centre
one on its base while the two on either side of it rest on their tips. This gives you the
shape of a manger.
Baby Jesus in the manger is really simple as well, simply use a semi-circle (half-moon)
to create the "swaddling clothes" over him with a circle at the one end for the head.
Use your imagination or examine pictures of Christmas cards or Christmas pictures that
you like and draw them out in basic shapes that you know how to quill and you will have
your Christmas quilling pattern. Enjoy creating those patterns and blessing your family
and friends with them and Happy Christmas.This Article was written by Mandy Buchanan, Owner of 1 Way Resources, your 1 stop information
center. To get more information about quilling visit http://www.1wayresources.co.za/quilling.htm
or to see more of our arts and crafts articles visit http://www.1wayresources.co.za/crafts.htm
Category : Domains
Looking for Christmas quilling patterns for your Christmas cards or perhaps to quill
Christmas decorations? Why not make your own? There really is only one simple secret
to creating your own quilling patterns - draw pictures using the shapes you know how to
quill.
A very simple pattern that I created using only coils, squares, triangles and a single
diamond was a christmas tree with presents around it. Three large triangles formed
the Christmas tree itself with three brown squares as the trunk of the Christmas tree.
I used the single yellow diamond to decorate the top of the Christmas tree with a few
coils as baubles on the Christmas tree. A couple of colored squares I placed around the
based as presents. If you know quilling this is a really simple pattern but at the same
time really effective for this time of year.
Try putting shapes together in different ways to form new shapes to make more complex
patterns. For example use three triangles in making the manger, but put the centre
one on its base while the two on either side of it rest on their tips. This gives you the
shape of a manger.
Baby Jesus in the manger is really simple as well, simply use a semi-circle (half-moon)
to create the "swaddling clothes" over him with a circle at the one end for the head.
Use your imagination or examine pictures of Christmas cards or Christmas pictures that
you like and draw them out in basic shapes that you know how to quill and you will have
your Christmas quilling pattern. Enjoy creating those patterns and blessing your family
and friends with them and Happy Christmas.This Article was written by Mandy Buchanan, Owner of 1 Way Resources, your 1 stop information
center. To get more information about quilling visit http://www.1wayresources.co.za/quilling.htm
or to see more of our arts and crafts articles visit http://www.1wayresources.co.za/crafts.htm
Category : Domains
วันเสาร์ที่ 26 กรกฎาคม พ.ศ. 2551
Ebay Auction for Golf Weekend with Junior Seau at Caesars Palace, Las Vegas
Author : Keith HUnt
te">January 14th, 2005
วันศุกร์ที่ 25 กรกฎาคม พ.ศ. 2551
OnlineShop
Glass Computer Desk
Graco Nautilus
Haribo Gummi Bears
Internal Frame Backpack
Kiddopotamus Snuzzler
Kitchen Small Appliance
Kitchenaid Dishwasher Stainless
Leather Executive Chair
Lego Clone Wars
Linksys Wireless N G Router
Logitech Cordless Keyboard Mouse
Logitech Game Controller
Macintosh Laptop
Magnetix I Coaster Toy
Martin Acoustic Guitar
Mens Sandals
Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard
Multifunction Printer Scanner Fax
NEC Multisync LCD Monitor
Neutrogena Skin Care
New Garmin Nuvi
Nintendo Wii Classic Controller
Nylon String Classical Guitar
Pampers Cruisers Diapers
Playstation 3 Game Controller
RCA Am Fm Clock Radio
RCA Portable DVD Player Discount
Rmote Vibrator
Samsung Flat Panel TV
Schwinn Electric Scooter Shop
Schwinn Recumbent Bike
Seiko Chronograph Watch
Sharp Aquos LCD HD TV
Skateboard Shoes Shop
Slim Portable DVD Player
Soffe Shorts
Steven Raichlen
Swiss Army Pocket Knife
Targus Backpack
Teeter Inversion Table
Titleist Golf Balls
Toys For Babies
Travel Backpack
Unlimited MP3 Downloads
Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker
Womens Dress Sandals
Graco Nautilus
Haribo Gummi Bears
Internal Frame Backpack
Kiddopotamus Snuzzler
Kitchen Small Appliance
Kitchenaid Dishwasher Stainless
Leather Executive Chair
Lego Clone Wars
Linksys Wireless N G Router
Logitech Cordless Keyboard Mouse
Logitech Game Controller
Macintosh Laptop
Magnetix I Coaster Toy
Martin Acoustic Guitar
Mens Sandals
Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard
Multifunction Printer Scanner Fax
NEC Multisync LCD Monitor
Neutrogena Skin Care
New Garmin Nuvi
Nintendo Wii Classic Controller
Nylon String Classical Guitar
Pampers Cruisers Diapers
Playstation 3 Game Controller
RCA Am Fm Clock Radio
RCA Portable DVD Player Discount
Rmote Vibrator
Samsung Flat Panel TV
Schwinn Electric Scooter Shop
Schwinn Recumbent Bike
Seiko Chronograph Watch
Sharp Aquos LCD HD TV
Skateboard Shoes Shop
Slim Portable DVD Player
Soffe Shorts
Steven Raichlen
Swiss Army Pocket Knife
Targus Backpack
Teeter Inversion Table
Titleist Golf Balls
Toys For Babies
Travel Backpack
Unlimited MP3 Downloads
Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker
Womens Dress Sandals
วันพฤหัสบดีที่ 24 กรกฎาคม พ.ศ. 2551
Ready to Sign that Lease Agreement?
Author : Adam Smith
Is Signing that Lease Agreement Right for You?
Is Signing that Lease Agreement Right for You?
The real estate market is booming across the United States, especially in select areas of California as well as Las Vegas. Even the sleepy town of Boise, Idaho is experiencing record breaking primary residential development. Where ever you happen to live, you have probably noticed itÂ’s not so easy to get into that coveted house you have always dreamed of, despite the favorable mortgage rates. So what should you do?
Lessons Learned from the Past
With such uncertainty around the real estate market, perhaps it is best to stay away from owning your own property. Many so called experts predict the housing market in the US has finally reach bubble status, and expect that bubble to burst in the near future. They may have submitted their predictions a bit early, but their advice should be considered. If we learned anything from the stock market bubble and subsequent crash of 2000, we realized frequently a conservative approach to investing serves us well when uncertainty surrounds the market.
Protect yourself and consider the advantages of renting or leasing versus buying your own home. A renter assumes far less risk by signing his/her name to a lease agreement than when closing on a house. Typically a rental agreement locks you into a contract for a short period of time, relatively speaking, during which the rental rate is locked as well. Such a contract can protect you from the downswings of the real estate market, especially the volatility frequently demonstrated by adjustable rate mortgages. Granted, as a renter you donÂ’t stand to gain any equity in the house should the market turn up. However, you also donÂ’t expose yourself to the violent downswings in housing values wrought by an oversaturated market. Should you buy a house now and a year later need to move to pursue a new job opportunity, what happens when your realize those inflated prices you paid for your house are not so inflated anymore, and suddenly you owe more on your house than it is worth? That is called negative equity, and instinctively you realize no good can come of such a situation. Hence renting offers flexibility, both financially and physically speaking.
Avoiding the Headaches of Ownership
By agreeing only to rent the dwelling, you manage to avoid many of the disadvantages associated with owning a house. Normally the landlord is responsible for general maintenance of the flat. Many home owners are quick to offer their stories of frustration, disappointment, and even anger when things go wrong in the house. Pipes burst, flooding occurs, air conditioning units break during the scorching summer days of July, and heating systems fail in the dead of winter. All these things can and will happen, setting homeowners back considerably. Thus, as a renter you can avoid many of the major financial investments owners must make to maintain the comfort and livability provided by a dwelling. Agreeing to a lease agreement helps mitigate the risks of living in a home or apartment.
Weighing your Options
A rental or lease agreement can offer many advantages to those of you looking for a place to live. Ultimately, each individual must decide what is right for them. Some are more than willing to bear the risk inherent to the housing market because they have a strong positive cash flow and are in a position to endure the twists and turns of the market.
DonÂ’t be afraid to weigh your options and consider the risks of owning versus renting. For many, playing the game conservatively and waiting for housing prices to come back down to Earth will prove to be a successful strategy. There is no shame in signing that lease agreement, living in an apartment for a year or two before moving on to that house you have wanted so badly.
Seven Tips on how to select a domain name
Author : Paul Wilson
Instinct or random selection is not how one selects a domain name. It is to be done with great thought and purpose. There exists a philosophy to it. Consider the following:? A common and sensible method would be to use the name of your site as the domain name. Like www.writerfind.com is a sensible domain for a site where one can locate writers or www.dictionary.com for an online dictionary. When the purpose of the site is a part of the URL it makes it easy for customers to remember the site and for new browsers to click on it.? If the domain name is for an industry then you could think of using a generic name. Select a name that represents one hundred percent the market segment, www.autoinsurance.com would represent to a ?T? the auto insurance business.? Choose a domain with a.com extension. If that is not available then the alternate should also be a top level domain type. ? A short domain name is recommended over a long one just for the sake of easy recollection. However a long domain name can contain more key words and this could be a benefit where search engines are concerned. Research your options carefully. A long name works if it is dead on and meaningful. ? The golden rules are a domain name should be easy to remember, easy to spell, and easy to pronounce. In other words tongue twisters are out. It must be simple on all counts.? Consider all marketing aspects like brand recall. Many profitable enterprises have a domain name that is the brand identity of their business. Examples of successful brands are Hot Mail, Google, Ebay, and Amazon.? Pause to think and:A. Write down clearly the focus of your site and its business goals. Namely ?what is my site about??B. List the key words. C. Use the description and key words to coin a domain name that represents clearly the two important factors. Make a list of as many as you can. D. Next test availability at a domain name search engine.E. If .com is not available check for .net and so on.F. Be sure to zero in on a name that will serve its purpose. Never choose a domain because its there. G. Still in a quandary then use domain name research tools.H. If you find the perfect name is bought by someone then consider buying the domain name from them. This would depend on your budget.I. Alternately use suffixes for the domain name like universe, world, links, resource, business, inc, store, directory, guide and so on.The key is to think globally. The World Wide Web has no boundaries. Musts are recall, presence, and functionality. Paul Wilson is a freelance writer for http://www.1888Discuss.com/domain/ , the premier REVENUE SHARING discussion forum for Domain Forum including topics on domain trading, domain registration, domain sale and offers, adult domain and more. He also freelances for the premier Domain Site http://www.1866Domains.com
Category : General Web Hosting
วันพุธที่ 23 กรกฎาคม พ.ศ. 2551
Write an eBook to create free viral marketing for your website
Author : David Bain
Whether the ebook's free or costly, you're wasting your own time, and more importantly, reducing your brand value by promoting a worthless product. So make sure that your ebook has 'added value' for your consumers.Why write an ebook?An ebook is either just a marketing tool or both a revenue generator and a marketing tool. If you choose to charge for your ebook, then its value as a marketing tool will be diminished. You have to decide whether you'll gain more long-term value from selling the ebook or telling your readers about an additional product or service. Just bear in mind that if you've chosen to sell the ebook, the information that you provide should be original, unique, and it should be difficult to offer a free alternative quickly.How do you write an ebook?An ebook is generally written in HTML, although many of the top pieces of ebook software generally have WYSIWYG editors as well. My ebook, www.InternetMillionaireEbook.com has been written using eBook Pro which is one probably the leading piece of ebook software in the marketplace. There are of course other packages available, but I'm happy to recommend this one. Before you buy your software, make sure that you get a decent set of instructions or preferably some practical 'how to' videos as well as some reliable backup support. It's important to make sure that your ebook looks as professional as possible.What are the marketing benefits of writing an ebook?Conventional marketers will tell you that you need to get the press talking about you. Free editorials give a business the opportunity to appear in a newspaper or magazine at no charge. An free ebook has the potential to have just as much impact. Once the ball starts rolling, your ebook could be distributed by recommendation without any effort. A 'viral ebook' has a button on it that lets readers click to automatically email the download link for the book to a friend. Click on the 'Email a friend' button at the top of this ebook and email a few of your friends to see how easy it is. As you can imagine, this could have an exponential marketing impact. Copyright 2006 www.BuildYourOwnBusiness.biz David Bain is founder of the independent business articles resource, www.BuildYourOwnBusiness.biz. BuildYourOwnBusiness offers the latest business news & management advice on how best to build your own business - business articles on Strategy, eBusiness, Change Management & much, much more. David Bain is founder of the independent business articles resource, www.BuildYourOwnBusiness.biz. BuildYourOwnBusiness offers the latest business news & management advice on how best to build your own business - business articles on Strategy, eBusiness, Change Management & much, much more.
Category : General EBooks
How Well Do You Know Your Child?
Author : Marie Roker
Do you think you really know your child? I don't mean know what he/she likes and doesn't like, but to know him/her well enough to understand his/her challenges, to appreciate his/her strengths and weaknesses and to help him/her develop his talents. Knowing your children can help increase their chance for success in the future and improve your relationship.As parents, we are constantly looking for ways to improve out relationship with our children, discipline our children and provide proper guidance. How many of us take the time to get to really know our child? Some of us believe that our children are extensions of us and don't have their own thoughts, dreams and goals. When was the last time you sat down with your child to find out what they are thinking? The answers may surprise you. Children, especially during puberty, start to discover and develop their identity. They go through an emotional and psychological identity crisis and question and challenge their parents. At this point, children start to crave support and direction from their parents, but are not always compelled to ask for it. But how can you help your child, if you do not know their needs? Simple, ask them!You are not a mind reader and your child probably will not voluntarily share his/her personal information with you. When you start to offer unsolicited advice, they feel that you are being intrusive or nosy and get defensive.There are two simple steps to getting to know your child.The first step is to listen more and speak less. Let your child direct the conversation and when they ask for your advice, offer it without being judgmental or critical. Lecturing and berating your child for poor judgment or unhealthy decisions will not help you to understand him/her more because you will not be getting to the core reason for the behavior. If you do not have the proper information, how can you give your child the support that he/she needs? By listening, you will be able to help your child understand how their choices and decisions affect their lives and direct them to making healthier and more responsible decisions. By being an active listener, you learn to acknowledge what your child is feeling and give your child the information and advice that he/she needs.The second step is to ask the questions that will create meaningful conversation. The typical responses to “How was your day?†are “Good†or “Fine.†Ask open ended questions instead of closed ended questions that result in one word responses. Ask specific rather than general questions that will stimulate your child to think. Show your child that you have a genuine interest in what is going on in his/her life. Don't force this process, let it come naturally and soon your child will respond. Ask casually and soon your child will start to volunteer the information. Find out who influences your child. Even ask tough questions such as, "How do you feel about our family?" The point is not to judge your child's responses, but to know what he/she is thinking or how he/she is feeling. Ask your child if he/she has any resolutions for this year. What was his/her biggest challenge or setback last year? Ask the questions without interrogating. Don't bombard them with questions or you may face resistance. Resolve today to spend a few minutes each day getting to know your child better. This is one of the most valuable gifts you can give to your child.Recommended Further Reading:
http://www.personalitylab.org/tests/ccq_parent_choose.htm
http://www.cfc-efc.ca/docs/cccf/rs007_en.htm/Marie Magdala Roker is an Academic and Personal Development Coach and Certified Breakthrough Parenting Instructor who works with parents to help them unlock and nurture the personal and academic potential in their children and motivate their children to success.You can find her on the web at http://www.successfulchild.com.
Category : Podcasts
Do you think you really know your child? I don't mean know what he/she likes and doesn't like, but to know him/her well enough to understand his/her challenges, to appreciate his/her strengths and weaknesses and to help him/her develop his talents. Knowing your children can help increase their chance for success in the future and improve your relationship.As parents, we are constantly looking for ways to improve out relationship with our children, discipline our children and provide proper guidance. How many of us take the time to get to really know our child? Some of us believe that our children are extensions of us and don't have their own thoughts, dreams and goals. When was the last time you sat down with your child to find out what they are thinking? The answers may surprise you. Children, especially during puberty, start to discover and develop their identity. They go through an emotional and psychological identity crisis and question and challenge their parents. At this point, children start to crave support and direction from their parents, but are not always compelled to ask for it. But how can you help your child, if you do not know their needs? Simple, ask them!You are not a mind reader and your child probably will not voluntarily share his/her personal information with you. When you start to offer unsolicited advice, they feel that you are being intrusive or nosy and get defensive.There are two simple steps to getting to know your child.The first step is to listen more and speak less. Let your child direct the conversation and when they ask for your advice, offer it without being judgmental or critical. Lecturing and berating your child for poor judgment or unhealthy decisions will not help you to understand him/her more because you will not be getting to the core reason for the behavior. If you do not have the proper information, how can you give your child the support that he/she needs? By listening, you will be able to help your child understand how their choices and decisions affect their lives and direct them to making healthier and more responsible decisions. By being an active listener, you learn to acknowledge what your child is feeling and give your child the information and advice that he/she needs.The second step is to ask the questions that will create meaningful conversation. The typical responses to “How was your day?†are “Good†or “Fine.†Ask open ended questions instead of closed ended questions that result in one word responses. Ask specific rather than general questions that will stimulate your child to think. Show your child that you have a genuine interest in what is going on in his/her life. Don't force this process, let it come naturally and soon your child will respond. Ask casually and soon your child will start to volunteer the information. Find out who influences your child. Even ask tough questions such as, "How do you feel about our family?" The point is not to judge your child's responses, but to know what he/she is thinking or how he/she is feeling. Ask your child if he/she has any resolutions for this year. What was his/her biggest challenge or setback last year? Ask the questions without interrogating. Don't bombard them with questions or you may face resistance. Resolve today to spend a few minutes each day getting to know your child better. This is one of the most valuable gifts you can give to your child.Recommended Further Reading:
http://www.personalitylab.org/tests/ccq_parent_choose.htm
http://www.cfc-efc.ca/docs/cccf/rs007_en.htm/Marie Magdala Roker is an Academic and Personal Development Coach and Certified Breakthrough Parenting Instructor who works with parents to help them unlock and nurture the personal and academic potential in their children and motivate their children to success.You can find her on the web at http://www.successfulchild.com.
Category : Podcasts
วันจันทร์ที่ 21 กรกฎาคม พ.ศ. 2551
A Guide to Modern Motor Scooters
Author : Larry A. Johnson
Motor scooters are vehicles with small wheels and a low-powered gasoline engine geared to the rear wheel. The first patents for “foot powered†scooters date back to 1921. Up to that time there were no motors attached to the scooter. They were propelled by “foot power.â€The old-fashioned foot-powered push scooter was updated to a Razor motor scooter under the direction of Gino Tsai, whose father was a mechanical engineer for the J. D. Corporation in Shanghai, Taiwan. His motor scooter took about 5 years to design.Gino Tsai claims that the reason he invented the Razor motor scooter was due to the fact that his father had to walk for miles every day around the huge bicycle factory that he worked for because of his short legs. To solve this problem he updated the old-fashioned push scooter into what we now know as the modern Razor motor scooter.When Gino finished the development of his motor scooter he began to market it to the public. It quickly became a huge success with customers waiting as long as six months for their orders.Why was the Razor motor scooter so popular? The Razor scooter was made from lightweight airplane grade aluminum which can support over 1000 pounds without bending. It is foldable, which means it can be stored in very small places. It has small polyurethane wheels and a low-powered engine. Braking is activated by stepping down on the rear fender.Today there are many different brands and models of motor scooters. We have electric scooters and gas powered motor scooters. They are very versatile and functional, serving many different purposes. They are patterned after motorcycles, but have smaller wheels, lower-powered engines and can be "stepped through," unlike the motorcycle.The most commonly seen style of scooter is the “folding,†or “foldable,†scooter. These are two-wheeled models that are typically used for traveling short distances around the neighborhood. Braking occurs when the back fender is stepped on, putting pressure on the back wheel and stopping its movement. This type of motor scooter is made for kids or adults and can also be used to perform tricks on. It is very compact in size and can be folded for storage in small places.A unique feature of freestyle folding motor scooters is the “kicktail,†a portion of the foot deck that extends over the back wheel. This is what provides the leverage for performing tricks. Motor scooters with “kicktails†are called freestyle scooters and usually have hand brakes due to the fact that the back fender allows for the performance of tricks instead of braking.Electric scooters are generally bigger and heavier. Because of the extra weight they consume more power and can only go shorter distances when compared with the folding scooters. After about 10 or 15 miles it may be necessary to recharge the battery.These electric, or battery-powered, motor scooters are often used to travel short distances around the neighborhood or perhaps on a school campus or other confined environment. They are particularly popular among the elderly, handicapped and disabled. Instead of being confined at home these elderly or handicapped people can now have some of their former independence returned to them. Motor scooters of this type are usually called mobility scooters.Gas powered motorized scooters are usually more powerful and can attain higher speeds than the folding scooters or electric scooters. They can also travel longer distances when a larger fuel tank is included. Gas scooters may not be permitted in some areas so it is wise to check out the laws and regulations in your area before purchasing a motor scooter.Motor scooters are cheap fun. Larry Johnson loves traveling around town without the need to take out a loan for gas. Visit My Motor Scooters for more information about electric or gas motor scooters.
Category : Disease & Illness
Motor scooters are vehicles with small wheels and a low-powered gasoline engine geared to the rear wheel. The first patents for “foot powered†scooters date back to 1921. Up to that time there were no motors attached to the scooter. They were propelled by “foot power.â€The old-fashioned foot-powered push scooter was updated to a Razor motor scooter under the direction of Gino Tsai, whose father was a mechanical engineer for the J. D. Corporation in Shanghai, Taiwan. His motor scooter took about 5 years to design.Gino Tsai claims that the reason he invented the Razor motor scooter was due to the fact that his father had to walk for miles every day around the huge bicycle factory that he worked for because of his short legs. To solve this problem he updated the old-fashioned push scooter into what we now know as the modern Razor motor scooter.When Gino finished the development of his motor scooter he began to market it to the public. It quickly became a huge success with customers waiting as long as six months for their orders.Why was the Razor motor scooter so popular? The Razor scooter was made from lightweight airplane grade aluminum which can support over 1000 pounds without bending. It is foldable, which means it can be stored in very small places. It has small polyurethane wheels and a low-powered engine. Braking is activated by stepping down on the rear fender.Today there are many different brands and models of motor scooters. We have electric scooters and gas powered motor scooters. They are very versatile and functional, serving many different purposes. They are patterned after motorcycles, but have smaller wheels, lower-powered engines and can be "stepped through," unlike the motorcycle.The most commonly seen style of scooter is the “folding,†or “foldable,†scooter. These are two-wheeled models that are typically used for traveling short distances around the neighborhood. Braking occurs when the back fender is stepped on, putting pressure on the back wheel and stopping its movement. This type of motor scooter is made for kids or adults and can also be used to perform tricks on. It is very compact in size and can be folded for storage in small places.A unique feature of freestyle folding motor scooters is the “kicktail,†a portion of the foot deck that extends over the back wheel. This is what provides the leverage for performing tricks. Motor scooters with “kicktails†are called freestyle scooters and usually have hand brakes due to the fact that the back fender allows for the performance of tricks instead of braking.Electric scooters are generally bigger and heavier. Because of the extra weight they consume more power and can only go shorter distances when compared with the folding scooters. After about 10 or 15 miles it may be necessary to recharge the battery.These electric, or battery-powered, motor scooters are often used to travel short distances around the neighborhood or perhaps on a school campus or other confined environment. They are particularly popular among the elderly, handicapped and disabled. Instead of being confined at home these elderly or handicapped people can now have some of their former independence returned to them. Motor scooters of this type are usually called mobility scooters.Gas powered motorized scooters are usually more powerful and can attain higher speeds than the folding scooters or electric scooters. They can also travel longer distances when a larger fuel tank is included. Gas scooters may not be permitted in some areas so it is wise to check out the laws and regulations in your area before purchasing a motor scooter.Motor scooters are cheap fun. Larry Johnson loves traveling around town without the need to take out a loan for gas. Visit My Motor Scooters for more information about electric or gas motor scooters.
Category : Disease & Illness
วันอาทิตย์ที่ 20 กรกฎาคม พ.ศ. 2551
How to Get Autographs from Pro Football Players
Author : Zuniga11
When the New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady was eight years old, he found himself in the San Francisco Giants' locker room where he asked Chili Davis, a star for the team at the time, for an autograph.Davis refused, but said, "Maybe later kid, maybe if you come by after the game." So the young Brady stuck around, and after the game he re-approached his favorite player, only to be turned away again by Davis saying, "No, I'm not signing autographs after the game."The effect stuck with Brady, both in terms of the disappointment it brought him and in Brady's future outlook on autographs when he found himself in a similar situation."I certainly was hurt," Brady told Tuff Stuff magazine, "but at the same time, I was in the guy's clubhouse and now I look at it from a different perspective than I did when I was that age. At the time, though, it seemed like such a little request."One would expect walking into the Patriot's locker room and asking for autographs might be a fast way to get your butt kicked, but there are ways you can position yourself in the autograph-giver's radar without becoming a nuisance.First, you must have something to sign. Having a playing sign your arm may seem like a fun idea at the time--and they may well oblige-but it's largely a pointless act since you're going to eventually wash it off. A good rule of thumb is if you're not going straight to the tattoo parlor to have a tattoo artist trace the autograph, don't bother with body signing. Always carry a good quality pen. What's the point in handing the player something to sign if you don't have something to sign it with?Next, know who you're talking to. If you can call the player by name, or say something that shows you have taken an interest in him, he's going to look at you more sympathetically than someone else. The next important thing is location, location, location. It is far easier to get a player to sign something from front row seats than from seats in the second balcony.If you get a good seat and get to the game early, you can also talk to the players as they walk by. If you can get one in conversation for a while, you might end up getting a few other players to stop by as well. Sometimes a player will start signing autographs and a crowd will quickly form, which is another reason to get to the game early. Fighting a crowd for signatures--or worse--being in your seat as dozens of fans start crowding around you is likely to get you more than annoyed.If you can learn where the players come into and out of the stadium, that's another great place to find them ready to sign, pose for photos, shake hands, etc. They're far more likely to stick around for a while when they're not in a hurry.If you're just looking for a signed photo, you can write the player in care of the team's address. A better way is to also include a self-addressed stamped envelope and an unsigned 8x10 photo to the football player's personal address. For instant access to the best mailing address, agent, manager, publicist, production company, and charitable cause for over 54,000 celebrities worldwide, visit Contact Any Celebrity now at http://www.contactanycelebrity.com to search their online database! You may reprint or share this article as long as you link back to or credit http://www.ContactAnyCelebrity.com .
Category : General Sports
วันเสาร์ที่ 19 กรกฎาคม พ.ศ. 2551
PR and the Small Matter of Results
Author : Robert A. Kelly
As a business, non-profit and association manager, how
satisfied are you when the public relations people assigned
to your unit spend the bulk of their time on someone's favorite
special event, brochures, press releases and talk-show
mentions?Especially when you'd rather have a public relations effort
that creates the kind of key stakeholder behavior change
that leads directly to achieving your managerial objectives?You know, PR that does something positive about the
important outside audiences whose behaviors most affect
your operation. And, in the bargain, helps persuade those
key external audiences to your way of thinking, helping
move them to take actions that allow your department,
division or subsidiary to succeed.After all, what public relations boils down to are these realities:
the right PR really CAN alter individual perception and lead
to changed behaviors that help you succeed. Your public
relations effort must involve more than parties, videos,
booklets and column mentions if you really want to get your
money's worth. And you need a simple blueprint that gets
everyone working towards the same external audience
behaviors insuring that the organization's public relations
effort stays sharply focused.Sounds like good stuff, and it is!Here's one blueprint that can lead you in that direction: people
act on their own perception of the facts before them, which
leads to predictable behaviors about which something can be
done. When we create, change or reinforce that opinion by
reaching, persuading and moving-to-desired-action the very
people whose behaviors affect the organization the most, the
public relations mission is accomplished.And results like these can come your way. New proposals for
strategic alliances and joint ventures; customers making repeat
purchases; prospects starting to work with you; membership
applications on the rise; capital givers or specifying sources
looking your way, and even bounces in showroom visits.How, you are asking, do such managers produce results
like those?They spend some time figuring out who among their most
important outside audiences behaves in ways that help or
hinder the achievement of their objectives. Then, they list them
according to how severely their behaviors affect their
organization.More to the point, precisely how do most members of your
key outside audiences perceive your organization? If paying
for professional survey counsel isn't in the cards (or in the
budget!), your PR colleagues will have to monitor those
perceptions themselves. Actually, they should be quite
familiar with perception and behavior matters since they're
already in that business.All of which means meeting with members of that outside
audience and asking questions like "Are you familiar with
our services or products?" "Have you ever had contact with
anyone from our organization? Was it a satisfactory
experience?" And if you are that manager, you must be
sensitive to negative statements, especially evasive or
hesitant replies. And watch carefully for false assumptions,
untruths, misconceptions, inaccuracies and potentially
damaging rumors. When you find such, they will need to be
corrected, as they inevitably lead to negative behaviors.Big job now is to pick out the actual, offending perception
to be changed, and that becomes your public relations goal.
You obviously want to correct those untruths, inaccuracies,
misconceptions or false assumptions.The toughest part of this exercise is that a PR goal without
a strategy to show you how to get there, will taste like
asparagus with pancake syrup. So, as you select one
of three strategies (especially constructed to create perception
or opinion where there may be none, or change or reinforce it,)
what you want to do is insure that the goal and its strategy
match each other. You wouldn't want to select "change
existing perception" when current perception is just right
suggesting a "reinforce" strategy.Now you must create a compelling message carefully put
together to alter your key target audience's perception, as
specified by your public relations goal.Remember that you can always combine your corrective
message with another news announcement or presentation
which may give it more credibility by reducing the
apparent need for such a correction.The message you convey must be not only compelling, but
quite clear about what perception needs clarification or correction,
and why. Naturally, you must be truthful and your position
logically explained and believable if it is to hold the attention
of members of that target audience, and actually move
perception in your direction.It's easy to see why some folks refer to the communications
tactics necessary to move your message to the attention of that
key external audience, as "beasts of burden." After all, they
must carry your persuasive new thoughts to the eyes and ears
of those important outside people.You have a really wide choice because the list of tactics
is a long one. It includes letters-to-the-editor, brochures,
press releases and speeches. Or, you might choose radio
and newspaper interviews, personal contacts, facility tours
or customer briefings. There are scores available and the
only selection requirement is that the communications
tactics you choose have a record of reaching people just
like the members of your key target audience.Of course, you can always move things along by adding
more communications tactics, AND by increasing their
frequencies.In short order, you'll hear calls for progress reports. But
you will already be hard at work remonitoring perceptions
among your target audience members to test the
effectiveness of your communications tactics. Using
questions similar to those used during your earlier
monitoring session, you'll now become beady-eyed looking
for signs that audience perceptions are beginning to move
in your general direction.Despite the article's headline, public relations results are
no small matter. In my view, your results will be directly
dependent on whether you base your PR budget primarily
on tactics, or the creation of key stakeholder behavior change
that leads directly to achieving your managerial objectives.One can hope it will be the latter.Please feel free to publish this article and resource box
in your ezine, newsletter, offline publication or website.
A copy would be appreciated at bobkelly@TNI.net.Robert A. Kelly © 2005.Bob Kelly counsels, writes and speaks to business, non-profit and
association managers about using the fundamental premise of public
relations to achieve their operating objectives. He has been DPR,
Pepsi-Cola Co.; AGM-PR, Texaco Inc.; VP-PR, Olin Corp.; VP-PR,
Newport News Shipbuilding & Drydock Co.; director of communications, U.S. Department of the Interior, and deputy assistant press secretary, The White House. He holds a bachelor of science degree from Columbia University, major in public relations.Visit: http://www.prcommentary.com; bobkelly@TNI.net
Category : Skin Cancer
As a business, non-profit and association manager, how
satisfied are you when the public relations people assigned
to your unit spend the bulk of their time on someone's favorite
special event, brochures, press releases and talk-show
mentions?Especially when you'd rather have a public relations effort
that creates the kind of key stakeholder behavior change
that leads directly to achieving your managerial objectives?You know, PR that does something positive about the
important outside audiences whose behaviors most affect
your operation. And, in the bargain, helps persuade those
key external audiences to your way of thinking, helping
move them to take actions that allow your department,
division or subsidiary to succeed.After all, what public relations boils down to are these realities:
the right PR really CAN alter individual perception and lead
to changed behaviors that help you succeed. Your public
relations effort must involve more than parties, videos,
booklets and column mentions if you really want to get your
money's worth. And you need a simple blueprint that gets
everyone working towards the same external audience
behaviors insuring that the organization's public relations
effort stays sharply focused.Sounds like good stuff, and it is!Here's one blueprint that can lead you in that direction: people
act on their own perception of the facts before them, which
leads to predictable behaviors about which something can be
done. When we create, change or reinforce that opinion by
reaching, persuading and moving-to-desired-action the very
people whose behaviors affect the organization the most, the
public relations mission is accomplished.And results like these can come your way. New proposals for
strategic alliances and joint ventures; customers making repeat
purchases; prospects starting to work with you; membership
applications on the rise; capital givers or specifying sources
looking your way, and even bounces in showroom visits.How, you are asking, do such managers produce results
like those?They spend some time figuring out who among their most
important outside audiences behaves in ways that help or
hinder the achievement of their objectives. Then, they list them
according to how severely their behaviors affect their
organization.More to the point, precisely how do most members of your
key outside audiences perceive your organization? If paying
for professional survey counsel isn't in the cards (or in the
budget!), your PR colleagues will have to monitor those
perceptions themselves. Actually, they should be quite
familiar with perception and behavior matters since they're
already in that business.All of which means meeting with members of that outside
audience and asking questions like "Are you familiar with
our services or products?" "Have you ever had contact with
anyone from our organization? Was it a satisfactory
experience?" And if you are that manager, you must be
sensitive to negative statements, especially evasive or
hesitant replies. And watch carefully for false assumptions,
untruths, misconceptions, inaccuracies and potentially
damaging rumors. When you find such, they will need to be
corrected, as they inevitably lead to negative behaviors.Big job now is to pick out the actual, offending perception
to be changed, and that becomes your public relations goal.
You obviously want to correct those untruths, inaccuracies,
misconceptions or false assumptions.The toughest part of this exercise is that a PR goal without
a strategy to show you how to get there, will taste like
asparagus with pancake syrup. So, as you select one
of three strategies (especially constructed to create perception
or opinion where there may be none, or change or reinforce it,)
what you want to do is insure that the goal and its strategy
match each other. You wouldn't want to select "change
existing perception" when current perception is just right
suggesting a "reinforce" strategy.Now you must create a compelling message carefully put
together to alter your key target audience's perception, as
specified by your public relations goal.Remember that you can always combine your corrective
message with another news announcement or presentation
which may give it more credibility by reducing the
apparent need for such a correction.The message you convey must be not only compelling, but
quite clear about what perception needs clarification or correction,
and why. Naturally, you must be truthful and your position
logically explained and believable if it is to hold the attention
of members of that target audience, and actually move
perception in your direction.It's easy to see why some folks refer to the communications
tactics necessary to move your message to the attention of that
key external audience, as "beasts of burden." After all, they
must carry your persuasive new thoughts to the eyes and ears
of those important outside people.You have a really wide choice because the list of tactics
is a long one. It includes letters-to-the-editor, brochures,
press releases and speeches. Or, you might choose radio
and newspaper interviews, personal contacts, facility tours
or customer briefings. There are scores available and the
only selection requirement is that the communications
tactics you choose have a record of reaching people just
like the members of your key target audience.Of course, you can always move things along by adding
more communications tactics, AND by increasing their
frequencies.In short order, you'll hear calls for progress reports. But
you will already be hard at work remonitoring perceptions
among your target audience members to test the
effectiveness of your communications tactics. Using
questions similar to those used during your earlier
monitoring session, you'll now become beady-eyed looking
for signs that audience perceptions are beginning to move
in your general direction.Despite the article's headline, public relations results are
no small matter. In my view, your results will be directly
dependent on whether you base your PR budget primarily
on tactics, or the creation of key stakeholder behavior change
that leads directly to achieving your managerial objectives.One can hope it will be the latter.Please feel free to publish this article and resource box
in your ezine, newsletter, offline publication or website.
A copy would be appreciated at bobkelly@TNI.net.Robert A. Kelly © 2005.Bob Kelly counsels, writes and speaks to business, non-profit and
association managers about using the fundamental premise of public
relations to achieve their operating objectives. He has been DPR,
Pepsi-Cola Co.; AGM-PR, Texaco Inc.; VP-PR, Olin Corp.; VP-PR,
Newport News Shipbuilding & Drydock Co.; director of communications, U.S. Department of the Interior, and deputy assistant press secretary, The White House. He holds a bachelor of science degree from Columbia University, major in public relations.Visit: http://www.prcommentary.com; bobkelly@TNI.net
Category : Skin Cancer
A Guide to College Baseball Bats
Author : Jason Gluckman
In the mid 1850s, when baseball was in its infancy, players made their own bats. They experimented with flat bats, round bats, and heavy bats. They ultimately discovered that the barrel shaped bat was the most effective. Today, college baseball bats have taken this technology to a new, powerful level upon the introduction of aluminum bats in the mid 1970s. Too many wooden bats were being broken, so due to budget crunches suffered by many college athletic programs, collegiate baseball made the switch from wood to aluminum bats. This sparked a debate that rages today.Many purists want to do away with the high tech aluminum/alloy bats and return to the days where they claim hitters had to be much better in order to rack up those high batting averages. On the other hand, a many people believe that the aluminum college baseball bats elevate the game to an exciting level, with more home runs and a faster pace. Colleges still prefer the aluminum bats due to their durability, their cost effectiveness, and their lightweight swinging power.College players can pay as little as $50 for a used bat or up to several hundreds of dollars for ultra-light, specialized alloy bats. College players usually have a good feel for what kind of bat they need. They should consider personal height in relation to the length of the bat, and of course barrel size and weight. One advantage of current college baseball bats is that the batter can capitalize on the inside edge of the strike zone. So when a pitcher is trying to jam the batter, a base hit can be ripped out with a good aluminum bat. College baseball bats are available online, in sporting goods stores, and at used equipment outlets. Always ask the coach for guidance, and test bats for free at a batting cage so that you may more effectively judge the bat?s power and fit before making your selection. Baseball Bats Info provides detailed information on youth, wood, college, senior league, and discount baseball bats, baseball bat reviews and more. Baseball Bats Info is the sister site of Baseball Gloves Web.
Category : Baseball
The Best Article on Stress Management You'll Ever Read
Author : Pamela Catey
Have you been looking for an article on stress management that could really make a difference in your life? Are you tired of the exhaustion, fatigue and irritability that have now become a way of life for you in how you relate to stress?This article on stress management isnt your usual top 10 list of what to do. Id like you and I to shift our focus and attention on who you are choosing to be that is really fueling what you are doing.I know you are pretty sure that your stress is caused by all external factors, but its really more important to look at how you are relating to what you identify as stress internally. Lets face it, we only have so much control over our external environment and 100% control over our internal one. This maybe a new concept to you, but I assure you its a powerful one if you want to feel the freedom and power that managing stress can provide.Have you ever heard of the concept Be, Do, Have? It can be revolutionary in your life if you havent. Most of us live our lives out of the concept of Do, Have, Be which is extremely stressful because we are trying to do, do, do in order to have what we want so that we can then be how we want to be. This is backwards and futile. I mean really arent you exhausted, fatigued, irritable, and still dont have what you truly want?Shifting your focus away from what you want to have to who you want to be can eliminate a lot of stress and start bringing forth that which you desire. The following exercise can give you a start on this path. Take out a blank piece of paper and draw a vertical line down the middle of it so that you have 2 columns. On the right side column write at the top of it What do I want? Now, make a list of everything you want to have from the most mundane to the most profound. After you have completed that, at the top of the first column write Who would I be being to have what I want? One by one go through the list of what you said you wanted and ask yourself the above question. Write down the answer in the first column. Can you see that you dont have to know what to do if you focus on who you are being? If you focus on who you are being, you will become that and the actions to take will readily be available to you. This eliminates a lot of stress.If you thought this article on stress management was helpful to you, let me know. Pamela Catey is a Best Selling Co-Author, Self Improvement Coach, Musician, and Inspirational Leader. If you are ready to live a life you love or are interested in learning more about stress management, sign up for her Free FunLightenment Newsletter and discover how fun self improvement and personal growth can be at http://www.LightenUpandLive.com
Category : General Self Help
Does My Child Have Migraine? 5 Things To Consider...
Author :
<b>Does My Child Have Migraine? 5 Things To Consider...</b><br><p>&nbsp;by: <b>James Cottrill</b><p><p><p><p>Maybe you have migraine yourself, or someone you know does. You start to wonder if your child is going through the same thing. They might be complaining of headaches, or going through cycles of symptoms that are familiar to migraine sufferers. Here are 5 things to keep in mind as you try to help your child:<p><p>1. Migraine can strike in children<p><p>More than half of the adult migraineurs (migraine sufferers) report that they had their first headache as a child. Of children with migraine, it's estimated that about a third get their first attack before the age of 5. We know that children as young as 2 deal with migraine, and possibly even infants, although we still don't understand exactly how infants interact with pain.<p><p>2. Don't assume your child is just looking for attention<p><p>Sometimes it's hard to tell if children are really suffering, or if they're trying to get out of something. Some children of migraineurs may simply imitate the behavior that they've seen in a parent. Dr Sarah Cheyette, a pediatric neurologist and a mother herself, suggests that you not focus on the pain but tell your child they will "feel better soon". At the same time, keep a close watch for yourself and try to see the patterns.<p><p>3. Remember that migraine is different in everyone<p><p>We're all familiar with the headache pain that often goes along with migraine. But sometimes migraine attacks do not involve pain at all. Some people only see flashing lights. There's nausea. Weakness. Pain in different areas, even the abdomen. Watch for overall patterns in your child that may be related. Look for times when their behavior changes. When they're sick to their stomach. It's up to you to watch for symptoms that your child may not even realize are there.<p><p>It was a long time before I was actually diagnosed with headaches. For a long time I just had a vague idea that I "didn't feel well" at various times, though I couldn't really explain it. Your child may be dealing with something similar. Write down what you observe and share it with your doctor.<p><p>4. When to contact a doctor<p><p>Contact a doctor right away if there is a sudden change in the headaches your child is experiencing. This is especially important if your child gets any of the following symptoms: stiff neck, fever, dizziness, problems breathing, blurred vision, or headaches that are made worse with exertion. Your doctor can guide you through further observation and testing.<p><p>5. Learn about the available treatments<p><p>There's no reason to panic if you think your child may have migraine. Even if you've struggled with migraine for years yourself, treatments for your child may be different and more effective.<p><p>Don't assume that your medication will work for your child. Many adult drugs have not been tested for children and are not known to be safe. The same goes for natural therapies.<p><p>However, there are very effective treatments for children. Many common painkillers may be sufficient, as long as they're not taken too often (in many cases twice a week should be the maximum). For many, lifestyle changes can make a huge difference - more exercise, better eating habits, for example. One natural treatment that seems to work very well for children is biofeedback. When it comes to specific migraine drugs, recent trials have found certain doses of Imitrex to be helpful for children.<p><p>Children with migraine can look forward to treatments that were not even thought of ten years ago, and they live in a world where we have a far better understanding of migraine every year. Migraine does not have to ruin the life of a child, but can be an important challenge that you can help them through.<p><p><p><p><p><table width=100% cellpadding=8 cellspacing=0 border=0 bgcolor=#dddddd><p><tr><td><p><p><b>About The Author</b><br><p><p><p>James Cottrill is himself a migraineur, and is a health writer at <a href="http://www.relieve-migraine-headache.com" target=new>http://www.relieve-migraine-headache.com</a>. He lives with his wife, daughter and son in Canada, under the shadow of the Canadian Rocky Mountains.<p><p><p><p><p></td></tr><p></table>
Category : Hot Rods
วันพุธที่ 9 กรกฎาคม พ.ศ. 2551
Tahiti in Fiction and Film, By David Stanley
Author : David Stanley
Over the years, Tahiti and Polynesia have provided novelists and moviemakers with colorful subject matter. Early travelers told of wanton women on tropical shores, and Fletcher Christian added drama to the plot by leading a mutiny against the tyrannical Captain Bligh.In 1934 American writers Charles Nordhoff and James Norman Hall brought out the Bounty Trilogy. This three-part novel deals with Christian's mutiny on the Bounty, the escape of Bligh and his loyal crew members to Dutch Timor, and the colonization of Pitcairn Island by Christian and his fellow mutineers.The novel was an instant bestseller, and director Frank Lloyd soon made it into a movie, Mutiny on the Bounty, starring Charles Laughton and Clark Gable. In keeping with the mood of his time, the mutiny was presented as a simplistic struggle between good and evil, and the film won an Oscar for Best Picture in 1935.A generation later Marlon Brando flew down to Tahiti to star in a blockbuster remake of Mutiny on the Bounty. MGM's 1962 production is still considered the most spectacular film ever made in the South Pacific, in part due to the glorious scenery of Tahiti and Bora Bora. Thousands of Tahitian extras appeared in the film, and Brando married his first lady, Tarita Teriipaia.In 1984, yet another version of The Bounty was released, with Sir Anthony Hopkins as a resolute Bligh and Mel Gibson as an ambiguous Christian. Of the three Bounty films, this is probably the most historically accurate, and it's certainly the one with the greatest psychological depth. It was largely filmed in Moorea's Opunohu Bay.Another Nordhoff and Hall novel, The Hurricane, has been brought to the silver screen twice. John Hall's 1937 film portrays a young couple fleeing a despotic governor. In 1978 Dino de Laurentiis reshot The Hurricane on Bora Bora, with Mia Farrow and Trevor Howard. The resort built to house de Laurentiis' crew still exists as the Sofitel Marara.British novelist W. Somerset Maugham also had close ties to the South Pacific. In 1943 Albert Lewin filmed The Moon and Sixpence, Maugham's fictionalized account of Paul Gauguin's life in Polynesia. The nonconformist painter's incompatibility with French colonial life provided Maugham with a pretext to explore the role of the artist in society. Another famous Maugham story, Rain, set in Samoa, has been made into a movie several times.Other well-known authors who have popularized the legend of Tahiti include Herman Melville, Pierre Loti, Robert Louis Stevenson, Jack London, Rupert Brooke, and James A. Michener. Their stories, plays, and films have helped create the myth of a South Seas paradise. And even today, Tahiti and Polynesia beckon to romantics wishing to live their share of the dream. David Stanley is the author of Moon Handbooks Tahiti. His online travel guide to Tahiti and French Polynesia may be perused at Tahiti and French Polynesia Travel Guide and his Tahiti travel photos are at Pacific Pictures.You have permission to publish this article electronically or in print, free of charge, so long as the byline and resource box are included. Please do not use this article without the byline and resource box. Many thanks!
Category : General Art & Entertainment: Movies
วันพฤหัสบดีที่ 19 มิถุนายน พ.ศ. 2551
Business Satellite Internet Products Compared - 2005
Author : Randy Scott
There are a number of options available for Business Class Satellite Internet connectivity in the U.S. today. New offerings seem to launch every week in 2005 and it is becoming a bit confusing for the business owner who can't obtain traditional high speed internet or can't afford the expense of running a T1 line to a location off the beaten path. I've outlined below several options for business with the positive aspects as well as negative where applicable. Each company and heavy individual user has different needs, so no one platform is a "one size fits all". I will outline them and you decide:1. iDirect Platform:This is a proven Enterprise platform which provides a wide range of dependable speeds for most any business, government or heavy use individual. Download speeds from 64 kbps to over 2000 kbps and Upload speeds from 64 kbps to over 1000 kbps are available. The platform supports "shared bandwidth" or guaranteed "QOS" bandwidth at much higher pricing. In the U.S. a 1.2 meter dish is standard.
Equipment Cost: Equipment – A 2 watt system will cost about $2,700 installed. A 4 watt system is about $4,300 installed.
Monthly Service: A minimum circuit is about $250. A typical setup of 1000/256 kbps is $499 per month for a shared bandwidth-no FAP setup. For about $350 per month you can get 2000/500 kbps service with a 3 GB throughput allowance per month. There is a cost of $.09 per MB thereafter. The "shared bandwidth" package is far more predictable with the iDirect platform than with DirecWay or Starband setup's. You can expect to see the advertised speeds 85 % of the time or better.2. Surfbeam Platform:This product is in the process of being introduced in America. Surfbeam uses the same platform basically that a cable or DSL provider would use, except it is satellite internet. It is much less expensive than "Enterprise" grade systems. There is only one provider ready to launch this platform in the U.S. and they should begin shipping equipment by April 1, 2005. In most cases a 1.2 meter dish will be utilized with a 2-3 watt transmitter. Download speeds of 1500 kbps and uploads in excess of 500 kbps are the advertised speeds; however, this hasn't been verified in the field as of this article date.
Equipment Cost: Ranging from $1,295 - $1,995 including installation.
Monthly Service: Ranging from $95 - $400.3. Starband 484 Platform U.S. :This is the "beefed up" version of Starband service designed to attract small businesses and heavy individual users. This is DVB (digital video broadcast) technology which is converted to IP – the conversion process is the problem. It adds to overall latency and even with higher upload speeds than their consumer products (they advertise "up to" 256 kbps in Turbo Max mode- unclear what that really is), they don't support VNP traffic or VOIP connections. Download speeds are listed as up to 20 times faster than dialup…whatever that means. Dish size is 24"x36" and transmitter strength not given.
Equipment Cost: $900 + shipping + installation (price not given)
Monthly Service: $1604. DirecWay Business Plus Service (U.S. only):This is the DirecWay "beefed up" version of service. The only meaningful difference between this platform and the Starband setup above is DirecWay has more experience "massaging" the DVB conversion to IP and possibly more advanced acceleration techniques. They will support some types of VPN and VOIP, but it requires expensive equipment ($2,000+) to be placed at the satellite location and at Headquarters for a VPN circuit- often to the chagrin of the IT department at HQ. Inadequate upload speeds for heavy VPN "chatty" programs still plague this platform.
You can expect download speeds ranging from 800 kbps to 1500 kbps or more. Upload speeds range from 29 kbps to 90 kbps. This system uses a .98 meter dish and 1 watt transmitter.
Equipment Cost: $900 + $375 installation (shipping included)
Monthly Service: $129+5. Ka Band Satellite Internet:When this technology becomes available the summer of 2005, it could literally shake the foundation of the satellite internet world – or not! It is a technology that has been many years and over 1.5 Billion dollars in the making. There will be 30 spot beams aimed at the U.S. and 5 used by uplink centers with the initial satellite (Telesat's Anik F2) which will be operated by Wildblue Communications, a Denver, Co. based company.
It is being targeted to small business operators and consumers in rural areas through a network of rural electric operators (NRTC) initially and through two national distributors as the year progresses. If it works as advertised it will permit telecommuters to successfully VPN into home office much like they would with a cable or DSL connection – except at somewhat slower speeds (due to about 500ms of latency). Still, it has a lot of promise for the small businessman. They will not offer an Enterprise solution for some time- if ever.
With a satellite dish about the size of a trashcan lid (.67 meters) and a two watt transmitter, users will be able to download at speeds up to 1500 kbps and upload at speeds ranging from 128 kbps to 256 kbps.
Equipment Cost: $300-$500 Installation: $ ??
Monthly Service: Three plans with varying download speeds$49 – 500 kbps download speeds$69 – 1000 kbps$79 – 1500 kbps
It is unclear whether the upload speeds shown above will apply to all service levels.At this time, I am recommending that small and medium businesses needing connectivity right away, go with the more proven iDirect platform. You can learn more about it and other offerings at www.vsatus.com
There are a number of options available for Business Class Satellite Internet connectivity in the U.S. today. New offerings seem to launch every week in 2005 and it is becoming a bit confusing for the business owner who can't obtain traditional high speed internet or can't afford the expense of running a T1 line to a location off the beaten path. I've outlined below several options for business with the positive aspects as well as negative where applicable. Each company and heavy individual user has different needs, so no one platform is a "one size fits all". I will outline them and you decide:1. iDirect Platform:This is a proven Enterprise platform which provides a wide range of dependable speeds for most any business, government or heavy use individual. Download speeds from 64 kbps to over 2000 kbps and Upload speeds from 64 kbps to over 1000 kbps are available. The platform supports "shared bandwidth" or guaranteed "QOS" bandwidth at much higher pricing. In the U.S. a 1.2 meter dish is standard.
Equipment Cost: Equipment – A 2 watt system will cost about $2,700 installed. A 4 watt system is about $4,300 installed.
Monthly Service: A minimum circuit is about $250. A typical setup of 1000/256 kbps is $499 per month for a shared bandwidth-no FAP setup. For about $350 per month you can get 2000/500 kbps service with a 3 GB throughput allowance per month. There is a cost of $.09 per MB thereafter. The "shared bandwidth" package is far more predictable with the iDirect platform than with DirecWay or Starband setup's. You can expect to see the advertised speeds 85 % of the time or better.2. Surfbeam Platform:This product is in the process of being introduced in America. Surfbeam uses the same platform basically that a cable or DSL provider would use, except it is satellite internet. It is much less expensive than "Enterprise" grade systems. There is only one provider ready to launch this platform in the U.S. and they should begin shipping equipment by April 1, 2005. In most cases a 1.2 meter dish will be utilized with a 2-3 watt transmitter. Download speeds of 1500 kbps and uploads in excess of 500 kbps are the advertised speeds; however, this hasn't been verified in the field as of this article date.
Equipment Cost: Ranging from $1,295 - $1,995 including installation.
Monthly Service: Ranging from $95 - $400.3. Starband 484 Platform U.S. :This is the "beefed up" version of Starband service designed to attract small businesses and heavy individual users. This is DVB (digital video broadcast) technology which is converted to IP – the conversion process is the problem. It adds to overall latency and even with higher upload speeds than their consumer products (they advertise "up to" 256 kbps in Turbo Max mode- unclear what that really is), they don't support VNP traffic or VOIP connections. Download speeds are listed as up to 20 times faster than dialup…whatever that means. Dish size is 24"x36" and transmitter strength not given.
Equipment Cost: $900 + shipping + installation (price not given)
Monthly Service: $1604. DirecWay Business Plus Service (U.S. only):This is the DirecWay "beefed up" version of service. The only meaningful difference between this platform and the Starband setup above is DirecWay has more experience "massaging" the DVB conversion to IP and possibly more advanced acceleration techniques. They will support some types of VPN and VOIP, but it requires expensive equipment ($2,000+) to be placed at the satellite location and at Headquarters for a VPN circuit- often to the chagrin of the IT department at HQ. Inadequate upload speeds for heavy VPN "chatty" programs still plague this platform.
You can expect download speeds ranging from 800 kbps to 1500 kbps or more. Upload speeds range from 29 kbps to 90 kbps. This system uses a .98 meter dish and 1 watt transmitter.
Equipment Cost: $900 + $375 installation (shipping included)
Monthly Service: $129+5. Ka Band Satellite Internet:When this technology becomes available the summer of 2005, it could literally shake the foundation of the satellite internet world – or not! It is a technology that has been many years and over 1.5 Billion dollars in the making. There will be 30 spot beams aimed at the U.S. and 5 used by uplink centers with the initial satellite (Telesat's Anik F2) which will be operated by Wildblue Communications, a Denver, Co. based company.
It is being targeted to small business operators and consumers in rural areas through a network of rural electric operators (NRTC) initially and through two national distributors as the year progresses. If it works as advertised it will permit telecommuters to successfully VPN into home office much like they would with a cable or DSL connection – except at somewhat slower speeds (due to about 500ms of latency). Still, it has a lot of promise for the small businessman. They will not offer an Enterprise solution for some time- if ever.
With a satellite dish about the size of a trashcan lid (.67 meters) and a two watt transmitter, users will be able to download at speeds up to 1500 kbps and upload at speeds ranging from 128 kbps to 256 kbps.
Equipment Cost: $300-$500 Installation: $ ??
Monthly Service: Three plans with varying download speeds$49 – 500 kbps download speeds$69 – 1000 kbps$79 – 1500 kbps
It is unclear whether the upload speeds shown above will apply to all service levels.At this time, I am recommending that small and medium businesses needing connectivity right away, go with the more proven iDirect platform. You can learn more about it and other offerings at www.vsatus.com
or email sales@vsatus.com .About the Author:Randy Scott is the founder of VSAT U.S., a Colorado based sales and consulting firm which provides VSAT satellite internet platforms to business and heavy individual users throughout the America's and most of the world. Randy has over 10 years experience in the high technology field, both in bi-directional satellite internet and industrial computer hardware as a business owner and Sr. Sales Engineer. You can reach Randy by email: sales@vsatus.com or toll free@ 1-866-978-4613.
Category : Computers-and-Technology:Broadband-Internet
วันอาทิตย์ที่ 15 มิถุนายน พ.ศ. 2551
Antique Oriental Rugs: 8 Tips On How To Collect
Author : John Murray
Antique Oriental rugs have become highly sought after and highly collectable. In fact it is said the antique Oriental rugs are a better investment than investing in the stock market. These 8 tips on how to collect antique oriental rugs will keep you buying smart.1. In the Beginning Don't buyNow I bet your thinking that's a dumb tip if I'm in the market for collecting antique Oriental rugs. That's because in the beginning you have no idea what you are looking for. Take time to learn before you buy.2. Buy BooksBegin by purchasing one or more of the collecting books available. Buy as many as you can afford to buy. They are an invaluable resource when identifying antique oriental rugs and they provide a host of other information on Oriental rugs.3. Use Online ResourcesSupplement those books with online resources. There are many sites offering information on antique Oriental rugs. Do a quick search and you'll have enough sites to keep you busy for quite some time.4. Look at RugsNow that you've gained some general knowledge it's time to start having a look at a variety of antique Oriental rugs. Visit shops that sell them and begin by trying to identify where they're from, their age, and their material type. This process will better prepare you for having the ability to recognize an antique oriental rug that has value.5. SpecializeThere are so many types of antique Oriental rugs that you'll want to specialize in a type that interests you. Which styles of rug do you like the most? Once you've found your favorite begin to collect all the information you can find on that style. You'll very quickly gain skills that will make you a superior buyer. Over time you'll build an amazing collection of antique Oriental rugs.6. Buy An Old RugStart by buying a cheap old worn rug. You can take this rug home and put it through the test. Find out about the textures, weaving process, and everything else you can. Don't spend much on it because you are going to dissect it.7. Start ShoppingNow that you've done some reading, found a style to specialize in and your feeling a little more confident, you can start looking for your first real purchase. Many antique stores, carpet dealer, and auction houses will have antique oriental rugs. Don't forget about what's available online. Have a look around. If you find something that interests you drop the site an email or phone them.8. Check Auction HousesOnce you get a little experience you'll want to check out some of the well known auction houses like Sotheby's or Christies. Once you know what you are looking for there are some great buys to be had purchasing this way.Antique oriental rugs will only go up in value over time. Think of them as an investment into your retirement fund. Following these 8 tips to buying antique Oriental rugs will ensure you make sound investments.John Murray makes it easy to go through the carpet buying process and provides tips to keep your carpet lasting long. To learn more and receive your free mini-course visit the carpet rugs website.
Category : Divorce
Antique Oriental rugs have become highly sought after and highly collectable. In fact it is said the antique Oriental rugs are a better investment than investing in the stock market. These 8 tips on how to collect antique oriental rugs will keep you buying smart.1. In the Beginning Don't buyNow I bet your thinking that's a dumb tip if I'm in the market for collecting antique Oriental rugs. That's because in the beginning you have no idea what you are looking for. Take time to learn before you buy.2. Buy BooksBegin by purchasing one or more of the collecting books available. Buy as many as you can afford to buy. They are an invaluable resource when identifying antique oriental rugs and they provide a host of other information on Oriental rugs.3. Use Online ResourcesSupplement those books with online resources. There are many sites offering information on antique Oriental rugs. Do a quick search and you'll have enough sites to keep you busy for quite some time.4. Look at RugsNow that you've gained some general knowledge it's time to start having a look at a variety of antique Oriental rugs. Visit shops that sell them and begin by trying to identify where they're from, their age, and their material type. This process will better prepare you for having the ability to recognize an antique oriental rug that has value.5. SpecializeThere are so many types of antique Oriental rugs that you'll want to specialize in a type that interests you. Which styles of rug do you like the most? Once you've found your favorite begin to collect all the information you can find on that style. You'll very quickly gain skills that will make you a superior buyer. Over time you'll build an amazing collection of antique Oriental rugs.6. Buy An Old RugStart by buying a cheap old worn rug. You can take this rug home and put it through the test. Find out about the textures, weaving process, and everything else you can. Don't spend much on it because you are going to dissect it.7. Start ShoppingNow that you've done some reading, found a style to specialize in and your feeling a little more confident, you can start looking for your first real purchase. Many antique stores, carpet dealer, and auction houses will have antique oriental rugs. Don't forget about what's available online. Have a look around. If you find something that interests you drop the site an email or phone them.8. Check Auction HousesOnce you get a little experience you'll want to check out some of the well known auction houses like Sotheby's or Christies. Once you know what you are looking for there are some great buys to be had purchasing this way.Antique oriental rugs will only go up in value over time. Think of them as an investment into your retirement fund. Following these 8 tips to buying antique Oriental rugs will ensure you make sound investments.John Murray makes it easy to go through the carpet buying process and provides tips to keep your carpet lasting long. To learn more and receive your free mini-course visit the carpet rugs website.
Category : Divorce
วันอังคารที่ 10 มิถุนายน พ.ศ. 2551
CD Printers
Author : Josh Riverside
When you go to the store and see many, many sophisticated CD printers but cant figure out just how to take out a jammed sheet of paper from the printer, dont buy it. Buy only the CD printer that you can handle on your own, without help. If you need a CD printer to print special paper or forms, take them with you to the store and see if they can be printed on the printers youre checking out. Then, understand all the controls and indicators on the printer before buying it. See that you can reach out to the on/off switch since often these controls are at the back of the machine.If youre considering buying a desktop laser printer, check that it has an engine speed of four to eight pages per minute (ppm). Color inkjets should print one page per minute in color printing, and network color laser printers 12 ppm for monochrome models. No matter what the machine reads as its speed, often printers dont really print to their speed specifications. So, its best you test the machine out with some of your documents rather than use a printers demo page as manufacturers tweak it for speed so youre enticed into buying it. Check the printing costs of printers before buying one. Inkjet printers are usually cheaper by about 25% to 50% but can be expensive in the long run due to the amount of ink it needs and the actual cost of printing a fully graphical page. On the other hand, laser printers not only last longer but need less daily maintenance. CD provides detailed information on CD, CD Duplication, CD Covers, CD Mastering and more. CD is affliated with MP3 Download Software.
Category : General Art & Entertainment: Music
วันพุธที่ 4 มิถุนายน พ.ศ. 2551
Counselling-Based Communication Skills
Author : Pedro T Gondim
Counselling incorporates a wide variety of areas that apply to many different environments and situations. Understanding human behaviour and enabling (or improving) communication are essential in interacting positively with others. This view has been increasingly accepted by businesses and organisations, especially in terms of its contribution in improving productivity.There are many benefits of applying counselling-based communication skills and tools in the workplace. These include:1. Enabling a better understanding of why employees behave as they do. This allows identification of those factors that both motivate and inhibit employee behaviour and interaction.2. Allowing the development and implementation of strategies that align employee work behaviours with organisational goals including effective motivational strategies, cross-training programs, a greater emphasis on teambuilding, and developing trusting and predictable relationships with employees.3. Improving communication and essential feedback mechanisms that allow employees to communicate with Managers.4. Earlier identification and addressing of behaviours that are not conducive to workplace productivity and performance such as stress, poor work priority and organisation, and job dissatisfaction.5. Increase in employee loyalty and job satisfaction as staff perceive they are working within a caring and supportive environment.6. Higher employee commitment to organisational goals and job performance with less focus upon wages and pay increases.7. Improved productivity from higher levels of employee job satisfaction, self-esteem and motivation.8. Earlier identification and resolution of employee grievances.9. Reduced levels of workplace conflict, downtime, industrial disputes and workplace stress.10. Increased staff retention and workplace communication.© Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors. If you wish to republish or reproduce this article, please include this information in the end of the article. For more information about the Institute – please visit www.aipc.net.au/lz. To access our Article Library, visit www.aipc.net.au/articlesPedro Gondim is a writer and publisher for the Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors. The Institute is Australia's largest counsellor training provider, offering the internationally renowned Diploma of Professional Counselling.
Category : Business:Workplace-Communication
Counselling incorporates a wide variety of areas that apply to many different environments and situations. Understanding human behaviour and enabling (or improving) communication are essential in interacting positively with others. This view has been increasingly accepted by businesses and organisations, especially in terms of its contribution in improving productivity.There are many benefits of applying counselling-based communication skills and tools in the workplace. These include:1. Enabling a better understanding of why employees behave as they do. This allows identification of those factors that both motivate and inhibit employee behaviour and interaction.2. Allowing the development and implementation of strategies that align employee work behaviours with organisational goals including effective motivational strategies, cross-training programs, a greater emphasis on teambuilding, and developing trusting and predictable relationships with employees.3. Improving communication and essential feedback mechanisms that allow employees to communicate with Managers.4. Earlier identification and addressing of behaviours that are not conducive to workplace productivity and performance such as stress, poor work priority and organisation, and job dissatisfaction.5. Increase in employee loyalty and job satisfaction as staff perceive they are working within a caring and supportive environment.6. Higher employee commitment to organisational goals and job performance with less focus upon wages and pay increases.7. Improved productivity from higher levels of employee job satisfaction, self-esteem and motivation.8. Earlier identification and resolution of employee grievances.9. Reduced levels of workplace conflict, downtime, industrial disputes and workplace stress.10. Increased staff retention and workplace communication.© Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors. If you wish to republish or reproduce this article, please include this information in the end of the article. For more information about the Institute – please visit www.aipc.net.au/lz. To access our Article Library, visit www.aipc.net.au/articlesPedro Gondim is a writer and publisher for the Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors. The Institute is Australia's largest counsellor training provider, offering the internationally renowned Diploma of Professional Counselling.
Category : Business:Workplace-Communication
วันอังคารที่ 27 พฤษภาคม พ.ศ. 2551
Credit Repair After A Bankruptcy
Author : Ken Charnley
Even though slow and difficult, it is very possible to experience credit repair after bankruptcy. It is not out of your reach, regardless of what you may think. Immediately after filing for bankruptcy you can begin repairing your credit, all you need is some planning and a little thought.The first thing you should do is try to obtain a credit card or a small loan. Now you are probably thinking this is counterproductive. However, it is a vital issue because you are trying to improve your credit and repair your credit after a bankruptcy. By obtaining a credit card or small loan and keeping it paid every month and on time, as well as keeping within the spending limit, you will slowly begin to repair your credit.Another possibility and really helps in credit repair after a bankruptcy, is how long you have worked with your employer. Many creditors take a look at the amount of time you have spent with your employer. The longer you maintain your job, the better off you are, because you have stability within your financial affairs.If you constantly change jobs, this will make any creditor uncomfortable and be less willing to extend you credit for credit cards or loans. This creates the feeling of an unstable income, therefore, it is important to find a good job and keeping it when trying credit repair after bankruptcy.You should have three major goals when you are trying credit repair:1. Make a commitment to always pay your bills on time. This also means you should be paying, in full, the balance on your credit cards monthly.2. Try to get a savings account and build it. This gives you extra cushion if hard times come your way.3. Create and stick to a manageable budget. If you need ideas and tips about creating a budget, the Internet can help you.Ken Charnley is a personal finance publisher whose website Bankruptcy Loans is dedicated to quality information on Bankruptcy faqs & Loans. For all your Bankruptcy faqs needs visit and Apply for Bankruptcy Loans Online
Category : Finance:Bankruptcy
Even though slow and difficult, it is very possible to experience credit repair after bankruptcy. It is not out of your reach, regardless of what you may think. Immediately after filing for bankruptcy you can begin repairing your credit, all you need is some planning and a little thought.The first thing you should do is try to obtain a credit card or a small loan. Now you are probably thinking this is counterproductive. However, it is a vital issue because you are trying to improve your credit and repair your credit after a bankruptcy. By obtaining a credit card or small loan and keeping it paid every month and on time, as well as keeping within the spending limit, you will slowly begin to repair your credit.Another possibility and really helps in credit repair after a bankruptcy, is how long you have worked with your employer. Many creditors take a look at the amount of time you have spent with your employer. The longer you maintain your job, the better off you are, because you have stability within your financial affairs.If you constantly change jobs, this will make any creditor uncomfortable and be less willing to extend you credit for credit cards or loans. This creates the feeling of an unstable income, therefore, it is important to find a good job and keeping it when trying credit repair after bankruptcy.You should have three major goals when you are trying credit repair:1. Make a commitment to always pay your bills on time. This also means you should be paying, in full, the balance on your credit cards monthly.2. Try to get a savings account and build it. This gives you extra cushion if hard times come your way.3. Create and stick to a manageable budget. If you need ideas and tips about creating a budget, the Internet can help you.Ken Charnley is a personal finance publisher whose website Bankruptcy Loans is dedicated to quality information on Bankruptcy faqs & Loans. For all your Bankruptcy faqs needs visit and Apply for Bankruptcy Loans Online
Category : Finance:Bankruptcy
วันพุธที่ 21 พฤษภาคม พ.ศ. 2551
In Defense of Spam
Author : George W. Cannata
Maybe I'm a Heretic.I'm not really in favor of spam and I don't like it anymore than the rest of you and I'm sure many of you will disagree with me.However I look at it in the same way I look at TV commercials. If we didn't have them we'd have television like they have in Europe, which is pretty sad.I just don't want the government to get into the act. Let the market place take care of it. Eventually it will sort itself out. For one thing it doesn't work. There are ways to control it with software and by other means.I had an email address that for some reason or other was prone to receiving massive amounts of exceedingly offensive porn. I just abandoned it.Spam is relatively inexpensive or it wouldn't exist. Do you want to charge for the internet to cure it? I don't think so.
But when you get to the bottom of it there is a cost to those who employ it and I think eventually they'll come to realize it and stop it.I just received an email message from someone who wrote a blog objecting to Spam. In it he was touting some software to eliminate spam. Not only was he employing spam, but it was one of those long sales pitches that you have to scroll for five minuites to find out that this software marvel cost $200.00. I not only deleted it, I unsubscribed. Wasn't this Spam.Here's one for the books. I received a solicitation to join a program that was supposed to let you use spam but not have it considered spam. You joined a group who ageed to receive email from you as long as you gave them permission to reciprocate.It's a free program and they were honest enough to tell you up front that you could concievably receive 10,000 email messages at a time. I'll take my spam any day.Meanwhile the best thing to do is make sure you have a good filter and ignore it.Don't answer it or respond to it in any way. I used to report it but stopped even acknowledging that I ever saw it.Do not buy from anyone who indulges in spam.Hit them in the pocket book and eventually they'll go away.Don't ask "Big Brother " to help because you'll then suffer from unintended consequences. Use your freedom BOYCOTT them.Written by: George W. Cannata Author and publisher of the web site:
Maybe I'm a Heretic.I'm not really in favor of spam and I don't like it anymore than the rest of you and I'm sure many of you will disagree with me.However I look at it in the same way I look at TV commercials. If we didn't have them we'd have television like they have in Europe, which is pretty sad.I just don't want the government to get into the act. Let the market place take care of it. Eventually it will sort itself out. For one thing it doesn't work. There are ways to control it with software and by other means.I had an email address that for some reason or other was prone to receiving massive amounts of exceedingly offensive porn. I just abandoned it.Spam is relatively inexpensive or it wouldn't exist. Do you want to charge for the internet to cure it? I don't think so.
But when you get to the bottom of it there is a cost to those who employ it and I think eventually they'll come to realize it and stop it.I just received an email message from someone who wrote a blog objecting to Spam. In it he was touting some software to eliminate spam. Not only was he employing spam, but it was one of those long sales pitches that you have to scroll for five minuites to find out that this software marvel cost $200.00. I not only deleted it, I unsubscribed. Wasn't this Spam.Here's one for the books. I received a solicitation to join a program that was supposed to let you use spam but not have it considered spam. You joined a group who ageed to receive email from you as long as you gave them permission to reciprocate.It's a free program and they were honest enough to tell you up front that you could concievably receive 10,000 email messages at a time. I'll take my spam any day.Meanwhile the best thing to do is make sure you have a good filter and ignore it.Don't answer it or respond to it in any way. I used to report it but stopped even acknowledging that I ever saw it.Do not buy from anyone who indulges in spam.Hit them in the pocket book and eventually they'll go away.Don't ask "Big Brother " to help because you'll then suffer from unintended consequences. Use your freedom BOYCOTT them.Written by: George W. Cannata Author and publisher of the web site:
http://www.caveatemptorus.com You may copy or reprint this article so long as it is not altered in any way, that you retain the link and give full credit to the author.
Category : Business:Spam-Blocker
วันอังคารที่ 20 พฤษภาคม พ.ศ. 2551
A Coach's Playbook for Workplace Teams
Author : Jim Clemmer
We cheer for our favorite teams in sports, communities, schools and even families. So why don't we see workplace teams in the same rah-rah way?For all the big talk, matching T-shirts and off-site strategy sessions, calling a group of people a team doesn't make it one. These groups are usually just a collection of individuals from the same department who meet periodically.Few of us have been lucky enough to participate in a strong, united team. These groups rise to ever higher levels of performance and make all of us better than any one of us.Laying ground rules, setting goals and dealing with naysayers are just a few of the guidelines that can help your team reach its goals, whether they be improvements in productivity, customer service, quality, process management, innovation, cost effectiveness, job satisfaction, morale or financial performance.Why many groups aren't teamsHere are some of the reasons that many groups aren't effective teams:Lack of focus: If members don't have a shared picture of what success would look like, they will pull against each other. They also should have an emotional commitment to what they're doing.Confusion between team building and team development: Giving everyone a T-shirt may produce short term warm and fuzzy feelings but it rarely leads to a powerful, united team unless root issues are addressed. An example of a root issue might be chronic animosity between managers working with the team.Too much attention on the team itself: Some teams are so busy sailing the ship they have gone off course. They confuse their frantic activity for progress.Lack of priority setting: If everything is urgent, group members will feel overwhelmed.Poor processes: Typical team members often have little training in such basic skills as meetings, conflict resolution, planning, follow up and problem solving. They may not even be aware of them.Misuse of e-mail: It's a great way to share information but a poor way to communicate. Weak groups spend more time interacting with their computer screens than with each other.Victim mentality: Less effective groups that feel powerless will point fingers at senior management, customers, shareholders, suppliers, governments or other departments. Instead of re-setting their sails and navigating through their problems they curse the wind and wait to be dashed upon the rocks.Forming effective teamsWhat does it take to create a high-performing team? Here are a few suggestions:Run meetings well: Meetings are more important than ever in our increasingly complex and interconnected workplaces. Research shows that when meetings are run effectively, teams make better decisions than individuals.Among the basics are establishing an agenda that outlines the meeting's purpose. Are you solving a problem, seeking input or distributing information? Meeting leaders should choose decision-making processes -- among them are command, consultative and consensus -- and time allocated for each agenda item.Later, they should summarize and document actions to be taken, and ensure follow-through. High performing teams also should frequently review and improve their meeting processes.Agree on ground rules: Rules for debating issues, making decisions and resolving conflicts should be clear about unacceptable behavior. Anyone who violates a ground rule is called to account by team members.Focus on the big picture: The old adage says that "it's hard to see the picture when you're inside the frame." Team members build more excitement about the work they are doing if they can see how it plays an important part in a bigger effort. For example, a team working to improve processes in a health-care organization would benefit from learning how their work would benefit patients and caregivers.Ask each team member to imagine the team's ideal future state in a few years from now. Listen to each person's vision, and then summarize the key themes that have emerged. Some groups also use drawings, cutouts of pictures, symbols, metaphors or success stories to paint a picture of what everyone sees in the future.Another variation on this exercise is to imagine that each of you is being interviewed by a prestigious trade publication or major newspaper about your accomplishments. What have you done that is noteworthy? What principles guided your success? Where do most people feel your team has made the biggest difference?Set priorities and review them frequently: Effective teams navigate their way through setbacks, misdirection and negativity that cloud most organizations in mediocrity or low morale. They refuse to be victims of weak senior leadership, cynical colleagues, flawed organizational processes, demanding customers or poor suppliers.One way to counteract naysayers, for instance, is to challenge them with deeper involvement or problem-solving. Don't allow the cynics to set the team's emotional tone.Brainstorm a list of the biggest issues to be addressed by asking for ideas on the "dumbest things we do around here," "biggest barriers to reaching our goals," "major implementation issues we need to address," "pet peeves," "dumb rules and forms" and "things that drive you crazy."Cluster the similar points until there are five to seven major groups.Then divide them into things the team directly controls, can influence, and can't control at all. Prioritize the things you control and make plans to address them. Do the same for things you can influence. Agree on ways to stop fixating on the issues that the team can do nothing about.If senior management does a poor job of setting priorities, the better the team must be at doing this.Team leaders should establish a process to reset goals and priorities as conditions and demands change.Keep highly visible scoreboards, big thermometers (for a fundraising campaign), bulletin boards, Intranet sites, voice-mail messages and newsletters to update everyone on the team's progress.Build around strong members, and balance the team for strengths: Strong teams add people because of their strengths, not for their absence of weakness. To balance a team for strengths, the leader of a well-balanced team might assign a person with strong technical abilities and weak people skills to work alongside another member with weak analytical skills and strong communications abilities.Celebrate and laugh: Strong teams have fun. They care deeply about their work but don't take themselves too seriously. Use humor to diffuse tension or keep things light. You could appoint a Director of Fun, take joke breaks, show humorous video clips or schedule dress-up theme days.Learn to improve: The final component that continues to strengthen a team and take it to higher levels is a strong feedback and learning loop. Effective teams eagerly look at their processes and behaviors to streamline and improve them. Team members should regularly reflect on what they should keep doing, stop doing, and start doing for continuous improvement.------------Team ground rulesEvery team should have ground rules. Here are a few:Start meetings on time, with all the right participants present.Focus on the problem, issue or behavior -- not people. No one should make personal put-downs and judgmental statements about others. If you have an issue with another team member, talk to him or her privately and resolve it.When discussions involve some but not all participants, encourage them to discuss the issue at another time.Don't cut each other off, finish another person's sentence or engage in side conversations.Practice "cabinet solidarity" by keeping disagreements and debates inside the meeting room. Don't continue them elsewhere.Don't discuss sensitive or emotional issues by e-mail. Talk to each other instead.Look for opportunities to celebrate the team's successes.Encourage team members to vent frustrations but avoid blaming, whining and wishing for the past. Focus discussions on the present and future.Originally appeared in Jim's column in The Globe & Mail. Jim Clemmer is a bestselling author and internationally acclaimed keynote speaker, workshop/retreat leader, and management team developer on leadership, change, customer focus, culture, teams, and personal growth. During the last 25 years he has delivered over two thousand customized keynote presentations, workshops, and retreats. Jim's five international bestselling books include The VIP Strategy, Firing on All Cylinders, Pathways to Performance, Growing the Distance, and The Leader's Digest. His web site is http://www.clemmer.net/articles.
Category : Business:Team-Building
We cheer for our favorite teams in sports, communities, schools and even families. So why don't we see workplace teams in the same rah-rah way?For all the big talk, matching T-shirts and off-site strategy sessions, calling a group of people a team doesn't make it one. These groups are usually just a collection of individuals from the same department who meet periodically.Few of us have been lucky enough to participate in a strong, united team. These groups rise to ever higher levels of performance and make all of us better than any one of us.Laying ground rules, setting goals and dealing with naysayers are just a few of the guidelines that can help your team reach its goals, whether they be improvements in productivity, customer service, quality, process management, innovation, cost effectiveness, job satisfaction, morale or financial performance.Why many groups aren't teamsHere are some of the reasons that many groups aren't effective teams:Lack of focus: If members don't have a shared picture of what success would look like, they will pull against each other. They also should have an emotional commitment to what they're doing.Confusion between team building and team development: Giving everyone a T-shirt may produce short term warm and fuzzy feelings but it rarely leads to a powerful, united team unless root issues are addressed. An example of a root issue might be chronic animosity between managers working with the team.Too much attention on the team itself: Some teams are so busy sailing the ship they have gone off course. They confuse their frantic activity for progress.Lack of priority setting: If everything is urgent, group members will feel overwhelmed.Poor processes: Typical team members often have little training in such basic skills as meetings, conflict resolution, planning, follow up and problem solving. They may not even be aware of them.Misuse of e-mail: It's a great way to share information but a poor way to communicate. Weak groups spend more time interacting with their computer screens than with each other.Victim mentality: Less effective groups that feel powerless will point fingers at senior management, customers, shareholders, suppliers, governments or other departments. Instead of re-setting their sails and navigating through their problems they curse the wind and wait to be dashed upon the rocks.Forming effective teamsWhat does it take to create a high-performing team? Here are a few suggestions:Run meetings well: Meetings are more important than ever in our increasingly complex and interconnected workplaces. Research shows that when meetings are run effectively, teams make better decisions than individuals.Among the basics are establishing an agenda that outlines the meeting's purpose. Are you solving a problem, seeking input or distributing information? Meeting leaders should choose decision-making processes -- among them are command, consultative and consensus -- and time allocated for each agenda item.Later, they should summarize and document actions to be taken, and ensure follow-through. High performing teams also should frequently review and improve their meeting processes.Agree on ground rules: Rules for debating issues, making decisions and resolving conflicts should be clear about unacceptable behavior. Anyone who violates a ground rule is called to account by team members.Focus on the big picture: The old adage says that "it's hard to see the picture when you're inside the frame." Team members build more excitement about the work they are doing if they can see how it plays an important part in a bigger effort. For example, a team working to improve processes in a health-care organization would benefit from learning how their work would benefit patients and caregivers.Ask each team member to imagine the team's ideal future state in a few years from now. Listen to each person's vision, and then summarize the key themes that have emerged. Some groups also use drawings, cutouts of pictures, symbols, metaphors or success stories to paint a picture of what everyone sees in the future.Another variation on this exercise is to imagine that each of you is being interviewed by a prestigious trade publication or major newspaper about your accomplishments. What have you done that is noteworthy? What principles guided your success? Where do most people feel your team has made the biggest difference?Set priorities and review them frequently: Effective teams navigate their way through setbacks, misdirection and negativity that cloud most organizations in mediocrity or low morale. They refuse to be victims of weak senior leadership, cynical colleagues, flawed organizational processes, demanding customers or poor suppliers.One way to counteract naysayers, for instance, is to challenge them with deeper involvement or problem-solving. Don't allow the cynics to set the team's emotional tone.Brainstorm a list of the biggest issues to be addressed by asking for ideas on the "dumbest things we do around here," "biggest barriers to reaching our goals," "major implementation issues we need to address," "pet peeves," "dumb rules and forms" and "things that drive you crazy."Cluster the similar points until there are five to seven major groups.Then divide them into things the team directly controls, can influence, and can't control at all. Prioritize the things you control and make plans to address them. Do the same for things you can influence. Agree on ways to stop fixating on the issues that the team can do nothing about.If senior management does a poor job of setting priorities, the better the team must be at doing this.Team leaders should establish a process to reset goals and priorities as conditions and demands change.Keep highly visible scoreboards, big thermometers (for a fundraising campaign), bulletin boards, Intranet sites, voice-mail messages and newsletters to update everyone on the team's progress.Build around strong members, and balance the team for strengths: Strong teams add people because of their strengths, not for their absence of weakness. To balance a team for strengths, the leader of a well-balanced team might assign a person with strong technical abilities and weak people skills to work alongside another member with weak analytical skills and strong communications abilities.Celebrate and laugh: Strong teams have fun. They care deeply about their work but don't take themselves too seriously. Use humor to diffuse tension or keep things light. You could appoint a Director of Fun, take joke breaks, show humorous video clips or schedule dress-up theme days.Learn to improve: The final component that continues to strengthen a team and take it to higher levels is a strong feedback and learning loop. Effective teams eagerly look at their processes and behaviors to streamline and improve them. Team members should regularly reflect on what they should keep doing, stop doing, and start doing for continuous improvement.------------Team ground rulesEvery team should have ground rules. Here are a few:Start meetings on time, with all the right participants present.Focus on the problem, issue or behavior -- not people. No one should make personal put-downs and judgmental statements about others. If you have an issue with another team member, talk to him or her privately and resolve it.When discussions involve some but not all participants, encourage them to discuss the issue at another time.Don't cut each other off, finish another person's sentence or engage in side conversations.Practice "cabinet solidarity" by keeping disagreements and debates inside the meeting room. Don't continue them elsewhere.Don't discuss sensitive or emotional issues by e-mail. Talk to each other instead.Look for opportunities to celebrate the team's successes.Encourage team members to vent frustrations but avoid blaming, whining and wishing for the past. Focus discussions on the present and future.Originally appeared in Jim's column in The Globe & Mail. Jim Clemmer is a bestselling author and internationally acclaimed keynote speaker, workshop/retreat leader, and management team developer on leadership, change, customer focus, culture, teams, and personal growth. During the last 25 years he has delivered over two thousand customized keynote presentations, workshops, and retreats. Jim's five international bestselling books include The VIP Strategy, Firing on All Cylinders, Pathways to Performance, Growing the Distance, and The Leader's Digest. His web site is http://www.clemmer.net/articles.
Category : Business:Team-Building
วันอาทิตย์ที่ 18 พฤษภาคม พ.ศ. 2551
How To Deal With Your Prospect's Objections In Your Web Copy
Author : Bruce Carlson
Copyright (c) 2006 by Bruce CarlsonOne of the more difficult things for inexperienced copywritersseems to be how to deal with possible objections that a prospectmight have about a product or service.It can be hard to make the leap into your prospect's mind like that...And so, the objections sometimes just don't get dealt with in the copy. Which means you lose sales.In this short article, I'd like to show you a simple technique for dealing with your prospect's objections. Using this method will clear the way for you to start making a lot more sales with your Web copy.1. Make A Nice Big ListBefore you even begin to write your copy (including your headline or lead copy or bullets), sit down and write out a list of ALL thepossible objections your prospect could have about the product or service you're pitching.Every single one of them...and then some.Get silly about it. Come up with far-fetched and off-the-wall objections. Brainstorm like crazy. Get your friends and family involved. Turn it into a game. The more outside help you can bring in the better.You see, it's really easy to develop a kind of "tunnel vision" whenyou're writing, especially when it's your own product you're dealing with. This means you lose your objectivity. And when you lose your objectivity, you lose sight of your prospect's core emotions.Which can cause you to lose sight of the real reason they want your product.So start by making an exhaustive list. And do your best to get outside ofyourself and become more objective. Bringing in outside help will makethis easier.2. Prioritize Your ListOnce you have an exhaustive list, you'll need to take a look at which ofyour prospect's objections carry the most weight. The weightier objectionsshould be at the top of your list, with minor and less vital ones below them.An example of a heavy-duty objection might be that it's too expensive, especially if your product or service costs substantially more than your competitors' versions. You'll have to come up with a pretty strong argument about value, and show some clear examples of what they get when they buy, in order to deal with this one. Another weighty example might be the believability factor. Particularly if you don't have testimonials clearly interspersed in your copy or else overflowing on a separate page with a clear link to them. As far as lesser objections go, depending on what your product or service is, you might be faced with things like the fact that your service isn't delivered on-site, or that your packaging isn't "hot" Madison Avenue style or that your color selection isn't wide enough.Keep your list at hand the entire time you're writing your sales copy. Refer to it often, and see if you can come up with a way to either directly or indirectly address each and every objection on your list, starting with the most important ones.3. The "FAQ Approach"If you can smoothly and effortlessly answer your prospect's objections within your sales pitch, then more power to you. But those major objections I mentioned above sometimes require a little extra fire power in order to be laid to rest.One way that's very effective for really singling out specific objections, and which some very good Web copywriters (Lorrie Morgen-Ferrero, Paul Myers, and Charlie Page come to mind) use well, is what I call the "FAQ approach". This is where you put your prospect's possible objections in the form of a question right smack dab in the middle of the copy (But Can't I Get It Cheaper At Wal-Mart?). You then follow up with your answer right there (Yes, you can, but you won't get the hand-stitched quality, the designer fashion look, and the 1-year guarantee). How you present them is up to you. Different copywriters have different styles. I like to list the questions as separate sub-headlines, especially if they're really heavy, followedby the answer. If they're not quite so heavy, I'll just use bold-faced type for them within the body of the copy followed by my reply. If you want, you can even use an actual FAQ section right in your sales letter and it works very nicely.**Take Your Prospect By The Hand And Lead Them To The Sale**Remember, your prospect needs to be taken by the hand and led carefully through your pitch and onto the sale.By being clear and keeping things simple concerning their objections, you have a much better chance of leading them down that rosy path to the order form. By dealing straightforwardly and effectively with every possible objection they might have, you reassure them. Which builds trust. And which, in turn, leads to more sales.So try out my advice the next time you write sales copy for your Website. Make a prioritized listand deal clearly with each objection, using the FAQ approach. You'll see better numbers for yourefforts. Web writing coach Bruce Carlson would like tohelp you build your Web business with the right words.Sign up for his free Dynamic Copywriting tips athttp://www.dynamic-copywriting.com/news
Category : General Copywriting
วันเสาร์ที่ 17 พฤษภาคม พ.ศ. 2551
Appliques - Is it Embroidery or is it Quilting?
Author : Bryce G Werllington
ap?pli?qu? n. Sewing one material onto another as a means of decoration or ornamentation.While ancient in origin, currently appliques can refer to any type of pattern transfer or application of decoration used in a wide range of mediums. Historically the term applique applied to material-to-material techniques. One of the earliest known pieces was a sail composed of gazelle leather and constructed by both patchwork and applique for the temple of King Sahure in the Fourth Dynasty (2575-2465 B.C.).Embroidery appliques are generally seen as trim or image designs as opposed to embroidery like monograms or logos. Appliques are commonly used to decorate household linens such as bedding, towels and napkins or apparel, particularly children?s wear and caps. Appliques are also frequently used to decorate wedding gowns, veils, trains, ring bearer pillows and other bridal accessories.Iron-on appliques have gained large popularity, as they are a cheap, fast and easy way to personalize apparel. The most commonly used item to add iron-on appliques to are t-shirts. There are companies that will turn nearly any design into an iron-on applique which appeals to today younger generation looking for ways to individualize and personalize in an age where everything is mass manufactured.Quilting appliques have been popular long through out history. In fact, appliques are still very popular in the quilting world. Quilting appliques are generally done as quilting blocks. Patterns can be anything from popular cartoon images to traditional floral designs. Bryce G Werllington is a market researcher for Safewebhost.net. Safewebhost.net is a website design and search engine optimization firm based in Edmonton, Alberta. Bryce has been researching and writing content for Central Sewing, a client of Safewebhost.net.
Category : Work at Home Moms
วันพฤหัสบดีที่ 15 พฤษภาคม พ.ศ. 2551
How Much Is Too Little?
Author : Theresa Cahill
As a publisher and ezine co-op owner, I've been studying
ezines and co-ops for some time now, and I've arrived at
the following conclusion:How much IS too little?This morning a well-known internet marketer's ezine
was brought to my attention. The ezine is a small one-page
affair with an excellent marketing tip. Attractively
arranged online, he has strategically placed top, middle,
and bottom sponsor ads. His mailing goes out to 150,000+
subscribers who are emailed every other week.Out of curiousity, I clicked through to his advertising
rates, and here's what I found:Top Sponsor ad:
Total Price: $675.00Middle Sponsor ad:
Total Price: $675.00Directly above the weekly feature article:
Total Price: $360.00Bottom Sponsor ad:
Total Price: $360.00There is no option for a solo ad.Now you might be saying, "Wow! There's no way in the
world I can afford that!" or "Yikes! How could I even dream
of charging that much?!"The answer is quality content and a heavy dose of personal
name branding.This marketer's ezine is looked for in inboxes. People wait
to hear his next bit of advice, the next tip, trick, idea,
resource, or product. He tells his readers what works,
they try it for themselves and agree, and they look forward
to his next publication, eager to stay ahead of the pack.So imagine placing an ad in an ezine that well read, that
sought after...Who wouldn't want to advertise inside such a publication
if they can afford to?Okay, now let's bring this a bit closer to home for the
majority of us with more limited funds.First off, many growing ezines accept free ads and paid ads
from outside sources. It's a good marketing practice in
order to grow one's list to the size of this example or head
quickly in that direction before it's no longer necessary.We "handle" this additional advertising in various fashions,
some by designated areas inside the ezine and others send
out additional classified mailings.So, what IS a fair market value for an average-sized ezine?Using the only algebraic formula I walked away with from
high school, and the prices in the above example, an ezine
with a subscriber base of 5,000 subscribers could easily
charge:$22.50 for a top sponsor ad
$22.50 for a middle sponsor ad
$12.00 for an ad above their featured article
$12.00 for the bottom sponsor ad.The key to being able to set these prices?
An ezine's originality, heart, and quality content!A looked-for ezine is a valuable ezine - for it's readers
and advertisers alike. The entrepreneur above knows
that well enough! And so do his advertisers...And the solo ad?Though the gentleman above declines solos, this form
of advertising is wide spread on the net. It has become
a mainstay for many publishers, and much sought after
by advertisers.My personal advice?An ezine's solo mailing needs to stand out from the rest
to justify ANY cost.I'm a firm believer that the solo ad should be pricey
because I also believe most of us are tired of reading
the $5 wonder solo ads.I believe an ezine and an ezine co-op should price
the solo ad high enough to make the average advertiser
stop and think can they really afford it, and, if so,
to ask themselves, "Is this program or product really
worth the extra expense?"I believe it is our responsibility to do this.Veteran publishers, subscribers, and advertisers
have been on the net long enough to have already
gone through the "school of hard knocks," or with
any luck at least be coming out the other side :)We've spent money and time and resources on the
fly by night programs that abound on the web.
We already know what it's like to be taken to the
cleaners...I believe it is our responsibility to help those new
to all these "sc^am in a box" offers avoid the errors
we've already made whenever possible.As publishers, we need to provide what we set out
to provide - quality content, worthwhile information,
and help.As subscribers, we need to provide feedback to our
ezines - also offering our wisdom and insight for
the benefit of others.As advertisers, we need to figure out what's worth
advertising and what isn't - and turn a profit by
being selective.By working together, we can all ensure the intrinsic
value of the ezine - now and for many years to come.Let the FFAs have the rest...© Theresa Cahill - All Rights Reserved. Feel free to distribute this article. Please keep it intact and with the resource box included below.ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Theresa Cahill, a two decade veteran of marketing, is the owner of http://www.mywizardads.com and invites you to take a look at the services of MWA and download fr.ee helpful information and more at http://www.mywizardads.com/sitemap.html
Category : Business:Ezine-Publishing
As a publisher and ezine co-op owner, I've been studying
ezines and co-ops for some time now, and I've arrived at
the following conclusion:How much IS too little?This morning a well-known internet marketer's ezine
was brought to my attention. The ezine is a small one-page
affair with an excellent marketing tip. Attractively
arranged online, he has strategically placed top, middle,
and bottom sponsor ads. His mailing goes out to 150,000+
subscribers who are emailed every other week.Out of curiousity, I clicked through to his advertising
rates, and here's what I found:Top Sponsor ad:
Total Price: $675.00Middle Sponsor ad:
Total Price: $675.00Directly above the weekly feature article:
Total Price: $360.00Bottom Sponsor ad:
Total Price: $360.00There is no option for a solo ad.Now you might be saying, "Wow! There's no way in the
world I can afford that!" or "Yikes! How could I even dream
of charging that much?!"The answer is quality content and a heavy dose of personal
name branding.This marketer's ezine is looked for in inboxes. People wait
to hear his next bit of advice, the next tip, trick, idea,
resource, or product. He tells his readers what works,
they try it for themselves and agree, and they look forward
to his next publication, eager to stay ahead of the pack.So imagine placing an ad in an ezine that well read, that
sought after...Who wouldn't want to advertise inside such a publication
if they can afford to?Okay, now let's bring this a bit closer to home for the
majority of us with more limited funds.First off, many growing ezines accept free ads and paid ads
from outside sources. It's a good marketing practice in
order to grow one's list to the size of this example or head
quickly in that direction before it's no longer necessary.We "handle" this additional advertising in various fashions,
some by designated areas inside the ezine and others send
out additional classified mailings.So, what IS a fair market value for an average-sized ezine?Using the only algebraic formula I walked away with from
high school, and the prices in the above example, an ezine
with a subscriber base of 5,000 subscribers could easily
charge:$22.50 for a top sponsor ad
$22.50 for a middle sponsor ad
$12.00 for an ad above their featured article
$12.00 for the bottom sponsor ad.The key to being able to set these prices?
An ezine's originality, heart, and quality content!A looked-for ezine is a valuable ezine - for it's readers
and advertisers alike. The entrepreneur above knows
that well enough! And so do his advertisers...And the solo ad?Though the gentleman above declines solos, this form
of advertising is wide spread on the net. It has become
a mainstay for many publishers, and much sought after
by advertisers.My personal advice?An ezine's solo mailing needs to stand out from the rest
to justify ANY cost.I'm a firm believer that the solo ad should be pricey
because I also believe most of us are tired of reading
the $5 wonder solo ads.I believe an ezine and an ezine co-op should price
the solo ad high enough to make the average advertiser
stop and think can they really afford it, and, if so,
to ask themselves, "Is this program or product really
worth the extra expense?"I believe it is our responsibility to do this.Veteran publishers, subscribers, and advertisers
have been on the net long enough to have already
gone through the "school of hard knocks," or with
any luck at least be coming out the other side :)We've spent money and time and resources on the
fly by night programs that abound on the web.
We already know what it's like to be taken to the
cleaners...I believe it is our responsibility to help those new
to all these "sc^am in a box" offers avoid the errors
we've already made whenever possible.As publishers, we need to provide what we set out
to provide - quality content, worthwhile information,
and help.As subscribers, we need to provide feedback to our
ezines - also offering our wisdom and insight for
the benefit of others.As advertisers, we need to figure out what's worth
advertising and what isn't - and turn a profit by
being selective.By working together, we can all ensure the intrinsic
value of the ezine - now and for many years to come.Let the FFAs have the rest...© Theresa Cahill - All Rights Reserved. Feel free to distribute this article. Please keep it intact and with the resource box included below.ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Theresa Cahill, a two decade veteran of marketing, is the owner of http://www.mywizardads.com and invites you to take a look at the services of MWA and download fr.ee helpful information and more at http://www.mywizardads.com/sitemap.html
Category : Business:Ezine-Publishing
สมัครสมาชิก:
บทความ (Atom)