freetime-learning

Feng Shui - From The Beginning

2008-08-08T07:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Tracy O'Brien

Feng shui is the ancient Chinese art said to increase the flow of positive chi, (aka positive life energy), in a space. Through increasing the levels of chi and allowing it to freely move within and around a given space, Feng Shui can help it's practitioners to reach their personal goals. For millenia, the principles of Feng Shui have been used to bring success in the relationships, in business dealings and also helping to win new friends and allies. The literal translation of Feng Shui means "wind and water, two of nature's most powerful symbols. Feng Shui practice helps create an optimal environment for chi to flow freely and easily, just as wind or water does in nature.Feng Shui has traditionally been practiced by experts. It was created by a spiritual master who was first and foremost a student of nature and the spiritual realm. More than 3 millenia ago, he created a basic set of rules meant to optimize the positive attributes of an area by increasing positive chi. His dream of making auspicious homes and workplaces which helped those living and working within to attract good luck and prosperity whilst at the same time enabling them to make the most of opportunity when it comes knocking at their door.Feng Shui quickly increased in popularity and credibility in China. People began to gain knowledge and skill in the subject. Eventually, Feng Shui found new followers all over the globe. Today many home-owners and business-owners consult Feng Shui experts when decorating rooms. Feng shui consultants have thousands of years of accumulated knowledge at their disposal. An expert can transform the energy of any kind of an area. Over time, several different schools of Feng Shui have emerged, each with its own perspective and strategies. The main schools are:* The Compass School* The Form School* The Black Hat SectDown through the centuries, practitioners have refined the art into a mathematical science. Feng shui is much easier to apply to a space today than it used to be because there are clearer guidelines to allow even an untrained person to apply this knowledge to the home or office space. Feng shui can help you create a feeling of balance and harmony in any space of any size. A little bit of knowledge can indeed go a very long way. Tracy O'Brien is a long time student and practitioner of the ancient art of Feng Shui. She is also the founder of FengShuiAstrology.comFor more Feng Shui Tips and a FREE Feng Shui Astrology Personality Profile, visit:http://www.fengshuiastrology.com

Category : Home Decoration

OnlineShop

2008-07-25T18:25:00.001-07:00

Glass Computer Desk
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Magnetix I Coaster Toy
Martin Acoustic Guitar
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Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard
Multifunction Printer Scanner Fax
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Teeter Inversion Table
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AStore

2008-07-25T08:19:00.004-07:00

7 Inch Digital Frame

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2008-07-25T08:19:00.003-07:00

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2008-07-25T08:19:00.001-07:00

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Never Make a Concession When You're Negotiating Unless You Ask for Something in Return

2008-07-20T17:40:00.001-07:00

Author : Roger Dawson
Power Negotiators know that anytime the other side asks you for a concession in the negotiations, you should automatically ask for something in return. Let's look at a couple of ways of using the Trade-Off Gambit:o Let's say that you have sold your house, and the buyers ask you if they could move some of their furniture into the garage three days before closing. Although you wouldn't want to let them move into the house before closing, you see an advantage in letting them use the garage. It will get them emotionally involved and far less likely to create problems for you at closing. So you're almost eager to make the concession, but I want you to remember the rule: However small the concession they're asking you for, always ask for something in return. Say to them, "Let me check with my family and see how they feel about that, but let me ask you this: If we do that for you, what will you do for us?"o Perhaps you sell forklifts and you've sold a large order to a warehouse style hardware store. They've requested delivery on August 15-30 days ahead of their grand opening. Then the operations manager for the chain calls you and says, "We're running ahead of schedule on the store construction. We're thinking of moving up the store opening to take in the Labor Day weekend. Is there any way you could move up delivery of those fork lifts to next Wednesday?" You may be thinking, "That's great. They're sitting in our local warehouse ready to go, so I'd much rather move up the shipment and be paid sooner. We'll deliver them tomorrow if you want them." Although your initial inclination is to say, "That's fine," I still want you to use the Trade-Off Gambit. I want you to say, "Quite frankly I don't know whether we can get them there that soon. I'll have to check with my scheduling people, and see what they say about it. But let me ask you this, if we can do that for you, what can you do for us?"One of three things is going to happen when you ask for something in return:1. You might just get something. The buyers of your house may be willing to increase the deposit, buy your patio furniture, or give your dog a good home. The hardware storeowners may just have been thinking, "Boy, have we got a problem here. What can we give them as an incentive to get them to move this shipment up?" So, they may just concede something to you. They may just say, "I'll tell accounting to cut the check for you today." Or "Take care of this for me, and I'll use you again for the store that we're opening in Chicago in December."2) By asking for something in return, you elevate the value of the concession. When you're negotiating, why give anything away? Always make the big deal out of it. You may need that later. Later you may be doing the walk through with the buyers of the house, and they've found a light switch that doesn't work. You're able to say, "Do know how it inconvenienced us to let you move your furniture into the garage? We did that for you, and now I want you to overlook this small problem." Later you may need to be able to go to the people at the hardware store and say, "Do you remember last August when you needed me to move that shipment up for you? You know how hard I had to talk to my people to get them to re-schedule all our shipments? We did that for you, so don't make me wait for our money. Cut me the check today, won't you?" When you elevate the value of the concession, you set it up for a trade-off later.3) It stops the grinding away process. This is the key reason why you should always use the Trade-Off Gambit. If they know that every time they ask you for something, you're going to ask for something in return, then it stops them constantly coming back for more. I can't tell you how many times a student of mine has come up to me at seminar or called my office and said to me, "Roger, can you help me with this? I thought I had a sweetheart of a deal put together. I didn't think that I would have any problems at all with this one. But in the very early stages, they asked me for a small concession. I was so happy to have their business that I told them, 'Sure, we can do that.' A week later they called me for another small concession, and I said: 'All right, I guess I can do that too.' Ever since then, it's been one darn thing after another. Now it looks as though the whole thing is going to fall apart on me." He should have known up front that when the other person asked him for that first small concession, he should have asked for something in return. "If we can do that for you, what can you do for us?"I trained the top 50 salespeople at a Fortune 50 company that manufactures office equipment. They have what they call a Key Account Division that negotiates their largest accounts with their biggest customers. These people are heavy hitters. A salesperson at the seminar had just made a $43 million sale to an aircraft manufacturer. (That's not a record. When I trained people at a huge computer manufacturer's training headquarters, a salesperson in the audience had just closed a $3 billion dollar sale-and he was in my seminar taking notes!) This Key Account Division had its own vice-president, and he came up to me afterward to tell me, "Roger, that thing you told us about trading-off was the most valuable lesson I've ever learned in any seminar. I've been coming to seminars like this for years and thought that I'd heard it all, but I'd never been taught what a mistake it is to make a concession without asking for something in return. That's going to save us hundreds of thousands of dollars in the future."Jack Wilson, who produced my video training tapes, told me that soon after I taught him this Gambit, he used it to save several thousand dollars. A television studio called him and told him that one of their camera operators was sick. Would Jack mind if they called one of the camera operators that Jack had under contract and ask him if he could fill in? It was just a courtesy call. Something that Jack would have said, "No problem," to in the past. However, this time he said, "If I do that for you, what will you do for me?" To his surprise, they said, "Tell you what. The next time you use our studio, if you run overtime, we'll waive the overtime charge." They had just conceded several thousand dollars to Jack, on something that he never would have asked for in the past.Please use this Gambit word for word the way that I'm teaching them to you. If you change even a word, it can dramatically change the effect. If, for example, you change this from, "If we can do that for you what can you do for us?" to "If we do that for you, you will have to do this for us," you have become confrontational. You've become confrontational at a very sensitive point in the negotiations-when the other side is under pressure and is asking you for a favor. Of course, you're tempted to take advantage of this situation and ask for something specific in return. Don't do it. It could cause the negotiation to blow up in your face.When you ask what they will give you in return, they may say, "Not a darn thing," or "You get to keep our business, that's what you get." That's fine, because you had everything to gain by asking and you haven't lost anything. If necessary, you can always revert to a position of insisting on a trade-off by saying, "I don't think I can get my people to agree to that unless you're prepared to accept a charge for expedited shipping" or "unless you're willing to move up the payment date."Key points to remember:o When asked for a small concession by the other side, always ask for something in return.o Use this expression: "If we can do that for you, what can you do for me?"o You may just get something in return.o It elevates the value of the concession so that you can use it as a trade-off later.o Most important, it stops the grinding away process.o Don't change the wording and ask for something specific in return because it's too confrontational.Roger Dawson
Founder of the Power Negotiating Institute
800-932-9766
RogDawson@aol.com
http://www.rdawson.comRoger Dawson is the author of two of Nightingale-Conant's best selling audiocassette programs, Secrets of Power Negotiating and Secrets of Power Negotiating for Salespeople. This article is excerpted in part from Roger Dawson's new book - "Secrets of Power Negotiating", published by Career Press and on sale in bookstores everywhere for $24.99.
Category : Mesothelioma

Network Marketing Tip: Duplication

2008-07-19T16:00:00.001-07:00

Author : monica karge

Duplicating your business in network marketing involves having a proven system with upline support, training, and mentoring. Such a plan should include up-to-date system methods.However, times have changed, and methods have evolved. The methods that worked a few years ago do not work today, yet many companies and teams still use and teach outdated system methods. Are home parties working in your area? Is your town ?all partied out?? Approximately 92 percent of the population does not like to sell or be sold to. Is there a way to promote your product without coming across as being ?salesperson-like?? Most network marketing companies will ask a new distributor to focus first on his or her ?warm market.? A warm market consists of people whom the distributor knows, such as relatives, friends, and coworkers. A network marketing company or upline will often instruct the distributor to pull out a sheet of paper and list the names of 100 friends and family members. WOW! I have never done that, and I do not know anyone who has been successful using this method. This method does not work! Yet, companies and team leaders still teach it.What does work?A step-by-step action plan is needed. This plan should be easy to follow and should be a plan that you can teach to anyone. Remember, most of the people you bring in are going to be part-time, average people, so the key is to develop an overall system that everyone can follow. Network marketing is about people. Have a system that will teach your downline about building relationships. The quicker a person can build relationships, the easier it will be for him or her to build a team. Toward this end, becoming a color profiler is a must.It is important to understand how to build ?the list? from your cold market. Your cold market are people you do not know and have not yet met. There are a number of ways to build your list. The Internet is a great tool, but although some folks buy leads, I personally would not recommend this unless you know the source of the leads as most of these leads are sold over and over again. Ever wonder why the leads you bought acted put off or why your prospects were short with you? It is a good idea to create your own leads. This way, your leads tend to be of higher quality.In my opinion, it?s best to start on a low budget and test your market before spending a lot of money. Your upline should provide training on designing marketing headlines that capture your prospects? attention and create curiosity. As my mentor, ?Big Al,? says, ?Your first sentence or headline is everything. If you don't capture your prospects? interest immediately, you are wasting your time.? Let your imagination flow! Do you have a mentor? Everyone in network marketing should, someone who has ?been there, and done that? and can teach and guide you along the way. Monica specializes in helping people succeed in their Network Marketing business. http://networkmarketingsuccessblog.com

Category : General Business: Network Marketing

Alberto Culver Chairman Named as Working Mother of the Year

2008-07-19T12:40:00.001-07:00

Author :

Using External JavaScript Files

2008-06-19T11:00:00.000-07:00

Author : Amrit Hallan

When you have lots of JavaScript functions and you plan to use
them on many web pages, it is always advisable to keep them in a
separate file, and then include that file on every page where
those functions are required. This way, you can better organize
them, you don't have to copy/paste the code again and again
(imagine if it runs to 100 or more lines!!), and you'll be
forced to write more generalized code for better integration and
scalability.

Besides, enclosing the common JavaScript routines in external
files keeps your web pages uncluttered and search engine spiders
and crawlers are able to reach the important content easily.
They don't have to shuffle through tens of lines of scripts.

In the first edition [that appeared in my newsletter -
BYTESWORTH REACHOUT] of my article I had omitted the process of
creating the external JavaScript files, but when one of my
readers asked me how to do it, I had to re-write the article.

It's very simple. Use any text editor of your liking (if you
hand-code your HTML, you can use the same editor that you use
for your HTML editing). Write the required code, and save the
file with .js (dot js) extension.

I'm going to give you a small example.

Suppose your JavaScript file is "myjfuncs.js".

and it has a function to return the bigger number of the two
supplied as parameters (you can simply start with the function,
no need to write or some other stuff):

function bigger(num1, num2) { var holdbig; if (num1num2) { holdbig=num1; } else {
holdbig=num1; } return holdbig; }

In a similar manner, we can have

function smaller(num1, num2) {

}

When we want to use this precious file full of JavaScript
functions, we use this line:

So when we use one of its functions in a JavaScript:

var n1=90; var n2=7; alert ("The bigger number is: " +
bigger(n1, n2));

In this way, we can use all the complex functions contained in
the myjfuncs.js file.

Category : Medicine

Little Giant Ladder - Frequently Asked Questions

2008-04-25T00:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Oliver Turner
If you have set out to buy a little giant ladder, you have done a laudable job. Still if you have any hesitation in your mind regarding the little giant ladder, this article will help you out. Here are some frequently asked questions that every one asks before purchasing a ladder.Why you need a ladder?There are many indoor and outdoor works that you have to perform with the help of a ladder. Ladder provides you necessary height and accessibility to complete the task.What is special about little giant ladder?Little giant ladder is a multipurpose ladder. It is a set of 24 ladders combined in one. You will feel that every time you use a different ladder for your different purposes with the same adjustable little giant ladder.Are the little giant ladders versatile?The little giant ladder is a versatile ladder. You can use it on any surfaces like rough, even, curb, straight or on the corner of wall. It can be used as step-ladder or stair step ladder. It can be used as A-frame ladder and extension ladder also. It is available in various sizes and models.How far the little giant ladder is safe?The little giant ladder is safer than any other ladder in the market. It is having an 'anti slip ribbing' and specially designed 'rungs and triple locking hinges' to protect you from any mishap.Are little giant ladders strong enough to bear your load?The little giant ladder is absolutely capable of holding your load. It is made of special type 'thick wall aluminum' which is used for high strength aircraft manufacturing. Further little giant ladder is 'load tested' and found extremely satisfactory.Why you buy a little giant ladder?Little giant ladder provides every thing that you expect from a ladder. You want stability, safety, security, durability, strength, warranty, cost efficiency and after sales services. Little giant ladder company made this unique device with all your answers. The little giant ladder is anti corrosive, so it can last long many years. It is light in weight, so you can carry it comfortably. You can increase or decrease the ladder height as per your convenience. You can fold the ladder within very short time and store it easily.All this facilities you can get from the little giant ladder only. Therefore you can buy a little giant ladder without any hesitation.We offer the best online ladders source. Check it out now on the Little giant ladder info guide.Find all about multipurpose ladders on - http://www.multipurpose-ladders.info
Category : Shopping-and-Product-Reviews

WYSONG RELEASES THE PET SUPPLEMENT TWIN-PAK?

2008-04-16T10:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Dr. Randy Wysong

Midland based Wysong Corporation, a research, development, educational and manufacturing firm, announces the release of THE PET SUPPLEMENT TWIN-PAK?. The Pet Supplement Twin-Pak? combines a very palatable probiotic-enzyme-vitamin-mineral pet supplement, Wysong AddLife?, with a highly effective and cheesy pet dentifrice, Wysong DentaTreat?. Each supplement comes in a convenient 3 oz. shaker-top bottle that provides a great pet condiment set to give to someone for their companion animals, or to use for your own special pets. ADDLIFE?AddLife? is Wysong's new nutritional supplement that combines the nutritional benefits of C- and F-Biotic. AddLife contains the same ingredients to enhance and augment the nutritional value of foods as C- and F-Biotic?, with added benefits of whole, raw meat and the antioxidant properties of blueberries. AddLife is a highly palatable, sprinkle-on supplement for both dogs and cats. Ideal for multi-species households so that one supplement may be used for all companion animals' meals. DENTATREAT?Composed of a special blend of dental-active natural cheeses, minerals, apple polyphenols, and many other ingredients that help to maintain oral health. It can be sprinkled directly onto food or it can also be used with a toothbrush as a tooth cleaning powder. Dentatreat is made entirely of safe, natural food ingredients and has no artificial colorings or flavorings. It helps to prevent tooth decay and gingivitis, remineralizes teeth, and discourages growth of bacteria that cause plaque and bad breath. To learn more about Wysong?s Pet Supplement Twin-Pak? or to place an order online click here: http://www.wysong.net/page/WOTTPWS/PROD/SUP/DA001 For more information about the complete line of Wysong Healthy Foods, please contact:Wysong Corporation7550 Eastman AvenueMidland, MI 48642Tel: 989-631-0009Fax: 989-631-8801E-Mail: wysong@wysong.netWebsite:

www.wysong.net

Category : General Pets

Should I Save Mad Money For A Rainy Day?

2008-04-14T04:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Nocita Carter
Yes, this is a good idea! I know you want to know what is mad money? Well, a long time ago this term came about when a young lady went out with her friend to a party and her friend left her at the party with no way home. So, the young lady was mad with her friend that left her at the party and luckily for her, she had money stowed away in her shoe to take a cab back home. She thought to herself on her way home in the cab, that it was good that her mother had taught her to always have money set aside for emergency situations such as this!Thank goodness, this young lady had the forethought to stash her mad money away so she could take a cab back home, since her friend left her in a lurch. Get the point? Having an emergency fund whether it be mad money or saved money is important for you to have. You say, how do I go about doing this? Well, you can read these tips to help you learn what you can do:1) Set up a savings account specifically for your emergency fund or mad money fund. Whatever you want to call it, just establish one!2) Deposit a certain amount of money on a weekly, biweekly, or monthly basis in your account. You may want to set up automatic deposits to your account via your payroll department. Or, you may want to have your bank automatically withdraw a certain amount of money from your checking account into your emergency or mad money savings account.3) Try to save at least 2-3 months of your monthly salary to cover your bills for at least three months if you were to loose your job. This amount of time will hopefully allow you the cushion you need until you secure new employment.4) The money you save in your emergency or mad money account should be used for household emergencies, personal emergencies or if you're no longer able to work. Don't use it for other expenditures such as bills, travel, etc... Get the idea? It's a savings account that you don't want to touch unless it's absolutely necessary!5) Make sure the bank account you put your emergency or mad money into, is paying you the most interest you can earn for this account! Research as many sources as possible on securing the best interest rate you can get. Check with your bank, the internet, newspaper and other sources for the prevailing interest rate. You want to make sure your money can be accessed easily and quickly if you need it for an emergency!By establishing an emergency or mad money fund, this will give you a better peace of mind if you need access to money when there is an emergency in your life. So, the sooner you start setting money aside for a rainy day, the better off you will be! Make sure the amount of money you contribute to your emergency or mad money fund, is realistic for your budget. Save as much as you can without upsetting your overall personal or family finances. So go ahead, get started today!Nocita Carter is a writer and web designer that creates websites providing informative tips on various subject matter including personal finance tips on your personal finances at http://www.personal-finance-tips-for-you.com; dating tips at http://www.mydating-tips.com and your choice of ebooks at

http://www.ebook-corner-for-you.com
Category : Finance:Personal-Finance

Political Correctness and College Sports - Has The NCAA Gone Too Far?

2008-04-13T05:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Mike Makler
The NCAA in it's wisdom has determined that teams that use native The NCAA has gone so far as to say that these teams cannot play in the post season tournaments unless they change their names.While I am sure there is a group of people both Native Americans and others who seem to think these names are offensive shouldn't we look at the big picture? Shouldn't we look at why colleges chose the Mascots that they do? Don't college choose mascots because of the qualities they feel those mascots possess? Don't the Colleges want their student athletes to posses these same qualities. Qualities like skill, Strength, Bravery, knowledge, intelligence and sportsmanshipAren't College athletics a huge source of pride for not just the student body but for the communities these colleges are in? The choice of Mascot isn't taken lightly by these universities. No college would ever chose a mascot that it felt was demeaning. Seeing an Indian Chief ride a horse around the end zone after a touchdown or a win is inspirational to not only the fans but the teams. Many people view the Native American Indian as a brave provider for his family and his people.The Florida State Seminoles even when as far as to get permission from the Seminole Indians to use them as a mascot.About the Author
Mike Makler Offers Financial Services (Mortgages,Life Insurance, Annuity) in Florissant Missouri which is in North St. Louis County Missouri Just Across the Bridge from St. Charles Missouri Call Mike at 314 398-5547 Visit Mike's Web Page:
http://ewguru.com/finance

For Missouri Specific Insurance and Loan Questions:
http://ewguru.com/Mo-FinanceGet Mike's Newsletter Here http://ewguru.com/fin-newsCopyright © 2005-2006 Mike Makler
Category : Recreation-and-Sports

Advantages Offered by Prominent Spanish Property Agents to Clients

2008-04-12T09:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Groshan Fabiola

Spain is a very suitable destination for persons in search of magnificent, dream-like landscapes, beautiful sunny beaches, crystal waters, and a pleasant, moderate and stable climate. While the coastal regions of Spain are the main attraction for beach enthusiasts, the inland regions also have a great potential for tourism, as they are traversed by splendid mountain ranges such as the Pyrenees and the Sierra Nevada. The beauty of Spain is emphasized by the variety of landscapes encountered here, the country blending all major geographic elements in a picture-perfect dcor. Spain also has a great culture, a prominent history, and a very well-developed civilization. This amazing West-European country is a very welcoming and exciting place for people who wish to spend their holidays and vacations or to permanently move to a beautiful, peaceful location.If you decide to purchase a property in Spain for spending your holidays and vacations or for permanently moving to this place, it is important to do an extensive analysis of the local real estate market, as the offers greatly vary in terms of costs, location benefits and amenities. Regardless of the type of property you are interested in buying in Spain, you should expect a series of difficulties on the track of closing real estate transactions, difficulties characteristic to all overseas deals: language barriers, local laws and regulations, local taxes, etc. In order to overcome all these impediments and to quickly find and close the best property deals in Spain, it is advisable to employ the services of an experienced real estate agent that specializes in overseas properties. With the help of a solid Spanish property agent, you will be able to find the best estates (villas, houses, townhouses, apartments) for affordable prices and you will be provided with professional support and guidance on closing the deals you are interested in. You will benefit from extensive information regarding existing amenities (swimming pool, tennis court, gardens, garage, view, etc.), the advantages or disadvantages of the location, the actual value of the property on both the local and open markets, the condition of the property (substantial or negligible damage, estimated repair costs) and so on. In order to further simplify the process of purchasing your desired real estate property in Spain, a dedicated Spanish property agent also provides clients with efficient legal services (having a good lawyer greatly simplifies the entire process of closing the deal, as your required fiscal documents will be obtained more quickly) and translation services (such services are required for translating a series of required papers). In addition to these services, by choosing the best Spanish property agent in the branch you will benefit from access to management and / or rental companies, opening of a Spanish bank account and access to low cost Spanish mortgages, access and installation of furniture, etc. With the help of the right Spanish property agent, the entire process of finding and closing the best property deals in Spain is made simple. If you want to find more how to achieve a Property in Spain, or what you need to do to have a Spanish property, you could follow these links.

Category : General Home Repair

How Does Satellite Radio Work?

2008-04-10T18:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Carl Walker
How does satellite radio work? To understand how satellite radio works you must first understand how analog radio works. Analog radio works by broadcasting the radio frequency to local transmitters and then on to the listener. Satellite radio works similarly but instead of using stationary transmitters with limited range to broadcast their media to the people, they use mobile Satellites.Satellites are equipment that orbit the earth and can pick up and transmit signals globally instead of just in a limited area. In the satellite radio category a satellite bounces the transmitted radio frequency off of the satellite and out to the millions of satellite radio listeners around the world. This has increased the satellite radio industry and has made satellite radio a staple media avenue in our everyday lives. Does this help you to understand the question of how does satellite radio work?A user such as myself or you, who is interested in satellite radio purchases a satellite radio device whether it be stationary or portable, we purchase the desired satellite radio service from whichever service provider offers us the best variety of programming. Once the subscription to this service is established, the device is programmed into a database of devices that are allowed to receive specific radio transmissions from specific satellites. This entry into the database then sends a signal to the device to decrypt satellite frequencies, providing the user with audible satellite radio reception. This explains the question of how does satellite radio work?Many service providers may use different marketing gimmicks to gain a customer base, claiming to have better coverage or what not. When it comes down to it, The only difference which could be considered is the limitations put on the satellite radio by the databases and what programs and filters any individual service provider may be using to limit the access their customers have to the satellite radio feed. Service providers may offer special features, or special programming which is solely controlled by their databases and the servers they use to transmit the satellite radio feed. You rarely hear of a service provider explaining to the customer the answer to the question of how does satellite radio work?If a user fails to pay for their subscription to the satellite radio feed, just as with any utility nowadays, the service provider may then send a signal to the device, removing its rights to decrypt satellite radio transmissions. Many technologies in the past, prior to the radio technology have used satellites to widen the spectrum of their services, such as telecommunications such as cell phones. The principal of each service is relatively the same in the fact that a person uses a device such as a satellite radio, or cell phone, to request a transmission through a service provider's database. If the subscription is paid for the transmission is allowed from the satellite to the user giving us satellite capable radio devices. I hope I have helped answer the question how does satellite radio work?Satellite Radio HQ http://satellite-radio-hq.com/ talks about the history of satellite radio, the equipment you'll need, the satellite radio channels you can receive and much more.
Category : Computers-and-Technology:Satellite-Radio

When Negotiations Stall, Position the Other Side for Easy Acceptance

2008-04-09T11:00:00.000-07:00

Author : Roger Dawson
When you're negotiating with people who have studied negotiating, and are proud of their ability to negotiate, you can get ridiculously close to agreement, and the entire negotiation will still fall apart on you. When it does, it's probably not the price or terms of the agreement that caused the problem, it's the ego of the other person as a negotiator. When that happens, Power Negotiators use a simple technique that positions the other person for easy acceptance.Let's say that you market advertising specialties, such as rulers, with the company's name on it-or custom printed baseball caps and T-shirts. You have made an appointment to meet with the manager at a local appliance store. What you may not realize is that just before you showed up in his office, the manager said to the owner of the store, "You just watch me negotiate with this advertising specialty representative. I know what I'm doing, and I'll get us a good price."Now he's not doing as well as he hoped in the negotiation and he may be reluctant to agree to your proposal because he doesn't want to feel that he lost to you as a negotiator. That can happen, even when the other person knows that your proposal is fair and it satisfies his needs in every way.
So, when this happens you must find a way to make the other person feel good about giving in to you. You must Position for Easy Acceptance. Power Negotiators know that the best way to do this is to make a small concession just at the last moment. The size of the concession can be ridiculously small, and you can still make it work because it's not the size of the concession that's critical, but the timing.So, you might say, "We just can't budge another dime on the price, but I tell you what. If you'll go along with the price, I'll personally supervise the printing to be sure that it goes smoothly."Perhaps you were planning to do that anyway, but the point is that you've been courteous enough to position the other person so that he can respond, "Well all right, if you'll do that for me, we'll go along with the price." Then he doesn't feel that he lost to you in the negotiation. He felt that he traded off.Positioning for Easy Acceptance is another reason why you should never go in with your best offer up front. If you have offered all of your concessions already, before you get to the end of the negotiation, you won't have anything left with which to position the other side.Here are some other small concessions that you can use to position:You're selling a boat, so you offer to take the buyers out and show them how to sail it.If you sell office equipment, offer to inventory their supplies and set them up on an automatic reordering system.You're selling a car, so you offer to include the snow chains.Hold this price for 90 days in case they want to duplicate this order.You're hiring someone and can't pay him or her what they asked, but you offer to review it after 90 days.Offer forty-five day terms instead of 30 days.Offer three years for the price of two on an extended service warranty.Remember, it's the timing of the concession that counts, not the size. The concession can be ridiculously small and still be effective. Using this Gambit, Power Negotiators can make the other person feel good about giving in to them.Never, ever gloat. Never, when you get through negotiating, say to the other person, "Harry, you know, if you'd hung in there a little big longer, I was prepared to do this and this and this for you." Harry's going to say unkind things about your mommy when you do that.I realize that in the normal course of business you'd never be foolish enough to gloat over the other person because you felt you out-negotiated him. However, you get into trouble with this one when you're negotiating with someone you know really well. Perhaps you've been playing golf with this person for years. Now you're negotiating something. You both know you're negotiating and you're having fun playing the game. Finally, he says to you, "All right. We're all agreed on this and we're not going to back out, but just for my own satisfaction, what was your real bottom line there?" Of course you are tempted to brag a little, but don't do it. He will remember that for the next 20 years.Always when you're through negotiating-congratulate. However poorly you think the other people may have done, congratulate them. Say, "Wow. Did you do a fantastic job negotiating with me. I realize that I didn't get as good a deal as I could have done, but frankly, it was worth it because I learned so much about negotiating. You were brilliant." You want the other person to feel that he or she won in the negotiations.Have you ever watched attorneys in court? They'll cut each other to ribbons inside the courtroom. However, outside you'll see the district attorney go up to the defense attorney and say, "Wow, were you brilliant in there. You really were. True your guy got 30 years, but I don't think anybody could have done a better job than you did." The district attorney understands that he'll be in another courtroom one day with that same defense attorney, and he doesn't want the attorney feeling that this is a personal contest. Gloating over a victory will just make the attorney more determined than ever to win the rematch.Similarly, you will be dealing with that other person again. You don't want her remembering that she lost to you. It would make her only more determined to get the better of you in a rematch.Key points to remember:If the other person is proud of his ability to negotiate, his egotistical need to win may stop you from reaching agreement.Position the other person to feel good about giving in to you with a small concession made just at the last moment.Because timing is more important than the size of the concession, the concession can be ridiculously small and still be effective.Always congratulate the other person when you get through negotiating, however poorly you think he or she did.Roger Dawson
Founder of the Power Negotiating Institute
800-932-9766
RogDawson@aol.com
http://www.rdawson.comRoger Dawson is the author of two of Nightingale-Conant's best selling audiocassette programs, Secrets of Power Negotiating and Secrets of Power Negotiating for Salespeople. This article is excerpted in part from Roger Dawson's new book - "Secrets of Power Negotiating", published by Career Press and on sale in bookstores everywhere for $24.99.
Category : Mesothelioma

Testimonials Boost Direct Mail Response Rates In Business-to-Business Sales Letters

2008-04-08T05:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Alan Sharpe
Correct me if I am wrong, but there is nothing more powerful in a business-to-business sales letter than a credible testimonial from a person in your prospectâ™s peer group.Testimonials are valuable because they say what you cannot. If you say it, youâ™re boasting. If a satisfied client says it, they are applauding. Here are some tips on using testimonials to make your sales letter pitches more plausible--and profitable.1. Donâ™t write your own
I have a standing policy never to write testimonials for others to sign. I donâ™t put words in a clientâ™s mouth. Thatâ™s because real testimonials have an authentic sound to them that you cannot reproduce with your own pen. The only change I make to testimonials is to correct typos and grammatical mistakes that would otherwise embarrass the person making the testimonial.2. Attribute the testimonials fully
There may actually be a J. K. in Wyoming but I do not know him, and neither do your prospects. Your testimonials carry the most credibility when they are attributed to a person by name, and include that personâ™s job title and company. Prospects check up on us direct mail marketers, you know. I recently landed a contract with a client who, before retaining my services, visited my online testimonials page, clicked on one of the company links, and asked to speak to the person who had given the testimonial.3. Match your testimonials with your target audience
Ideally, you should have an arsenal of testimonials at your disposal for every kind of tactic and target audience. The best sales letters use testimonials that match the industry, business challenge and job title of the prospect. Collect testimonials about your product quality, customer service, response times, professionalism, value for money and so on. Then pick the testimonial that matches your selling proposition, offer and audience.For example, the best testimonial to use when targeting dentists who buy continuing education courses online is one from a dentist from your prospectâ™s city (or state or province) who was extremely satisfied when buying online continuing education courses from you.4. Ask permission
This goes without saying, which, in English, means I am going to say it. Always get written permission from your clients and suppliers to use their testimonials in sales letters, collateral and online.5. Turn compliments into testimonials
You donâ™t have to solicit testimonials if your customers regularly say or write nice things about you, which I imagine is the case. Simply ask their permission to quote what they have already said.About the authorAlan Sharpe is a business-to-business direct mail copywriter and lead generation specialist who helps business owners and marketing managers generate leads, close sales and retain customers using business-to-business direct mail marketing. Learn more about his creative direct mail writing services and sign up for free weekly tips like this at http://www.sharpecopy.com.Â© 2005 Sharpe Copy Inc. You may reprint this article online and in print provided the links remain live and the content remains unaltered (including the "About the author" message).
Category : Vacations

9 Myths That Block You From Writing Your Book

2008-04-06T08:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Earma Brown

Many speakers, consultants, and small business owners alike feel
confident with communicating their message orally. They can
spout their message in an elevator speech with the accuracy of a
scientist. But when it comes to putting it on paper, some grown
men & women end up crying like a baby.

Through speaking and writing, I have discovered 9 myths that
often block others from writing their best book now. I promise.
It's not hard once you know exactly what to do. Successful
writers set up a system of writing. Destroy these myths and
setup your system of writing with nine easy solutions.

Myth 1 It's too hard.

Too many of us for too long have hid behind the words, "It's too
hard." Now is the time to take charge of our fears and conquer
them. First things first, to overcome procrastination -the fear
of failure- is to act now. Most times the bottom line of
procrastination is fear of failure.

Solution: Act now. Select step one of an easy writing
program and begin today. Or choose to sign-up for an easy 7
lesson ecourse "Jumpstart Writing Your Best Book Now. " Send any
email to iscribe@writetowin.org Action will destroy fear. Each
successful step of your system will deal a death blow to fear.

Myth 2 I have to get away from everything to write a
successful book.

No you don't. I know several novelist and non-fiction book
writers who had to write during a long commute to get their best
book written and out to the world. They accomplished it because
they systematically worked on their book until it was done.

Solution: Avoid marathon writing. In the midst of your
busy life, designate your time to write (work on your book) with
a goal to completion. (Reasonable time to completion)

Myth 3 I can't keep up with where I am after interruptions of
life.

It is a common challenge to find your place after being
interrupted with family, work and daily life. After all that's
why many think you must get away to get it done effectively.
Yet, there's hope for those who can't get away or choose not to.
Successful writers all over the world use the tracking approach.
They succeed because they commit to doing a little each day.

Solution: Set yourself up for success use the tracking
approach. There are 2 methods you could use for your tracking.
Time is the method where you commit to a writing a certain
amount of time each day. With the cumulative factor involved
your commitment doesn't have to be that much.

For example, to accomplish my book writing goals I commit to
writing one hour a day in my most productive time. For me it is
right after my meditation and reading time. With this method
don't be overly concerned about how much you write, just keep
the time commitment.

The other method is focused on output. Commit to writing a
certain number of words or pages a day, perhaps 750-1,000 words
or approximately three and a half pages double-spaced text. The
key factor is to stick to it until completion. Winner's Note:
You may ask how do I get started after interruptions or even in
my daily allotted slot so that I don't spend a lot of time
re-locating where I stopped?

Start your daily writing session by re-reading the last words
you wrote the day before. This will get you back in the flow.
The continued cycle of review will create a momentum that will
keep you going to completion. Another piece of advice is to
create a support system that will help isolate you from
telephone calls and interruptions during your daily Tracking
Session.

Myth 4 I have to complete each chapter in order.

It's called linear writing when you complete each chapter in
order. You don't have to write each chapter one after the other.
If you happen to get stuck on chapter two, you could be stuck a
very long time. I think this type of thinking comes from grade
school where we are ritually taught to do everything in order.

If you have been thinking that way stop right now, no need to
raise your hand. You have my permission to work on whatever
chapter moves you or you feel passion bubbling for at the
moment. Feeling stuck on a chapter, try another. There you have
it now go with the flow.

Solution: Don't become chained to writing in order. Jump
around and fill in the blanks. Review your chapters and whatever
subject or topic you most drawn to, begin there.

Writing a book is a journey. Most journeys go so much smoother
with a map or in our case a writing plan. Taking the simple
steps above will get you started fast and keep you going to
completion. Start today then complete and release your
significant message in a book to the world.

Category : Credit

10 Benefits You Get from Using Trekking Poles For Hiking

2008-04-05T13:00:00.001-07:00

Author :

10 Benefits You Get from Using Trekking Poles For Hiking &nbsp;by: Robin ShorttWe are what we repeatedly do. Excellence then, is not an act but a habit. -Aristotle-I remember watching my boys growing up. They would go to their Scout meetings and bring home a pole that they had cut from a sapling. They made it into a pole by stripping the bark and carving different designs into it. They would talk about how they used it for hiking and on campouts. Today things have changed a lot. The Scouts still make their trekking poles, but more hikers are now going high-tech. Todays poles have much of the same benefits the scouts used them for. Hikers also use two of them for hiking. Which double the benefits. <ol> <li>This includes pack weight distribution to the arms, thus increasing indurance. <li>Makes keeping your balance easier as you cross rivers and streams as well as rough terrain. <li>Lowers stress on the joints, knees, hips and lower back. <li>Gives a more upright, hiking posture. This in turn will make breathing more efficient. <li>Helps you go up those steep inclines. Also helps you keep your balance on the declines. <li>Dispite some drawbacks concerning them, the advantages far outweigh the drawbacks. <li>Trekking poles today are high tech in design and with adjustable telescopic features make them ideal for summer and winter. Most are made from materials such as aluminum or titanium. <li>Trekking poles have adjustable wrist straps and can have plastic or cork handgrips. <li>How to use your trekking poles is done by keeping your forearm parallel to to the ground on flat tarrain. If you're assending the poles will need adjusting. You will need to make them shorter, so you will not over reach. The opposite is also true as well. When going down a hill you will need to lengthen the poles. <li>Its very easy to use trekking poles. Just walk naturally one arm forward with the opposite leg. The poles will soon become apart of you as you walk. </ol>As you become used to using the poles you'll find how easy it has become to hike and how much faster and farther you can travel. Check out your local Scout Shop for a good quality set of poles. You'll also be financially helping out the Scout troops in your area.<table width=100% cellpadding=8 cellspacing=0 border=0 bgcolor=#dddddd><tr><td>About The Author Val and Robin Shortt are experienced campers and own three outdoor websites For more tips like these and to register for their Free newsletter visit: http: <a href="http://www.goodnightcampingequipment.com" target=new>http://www.goodnightcampingequipment.com</a><a href="mailto:Robin@goodnightcampingequipment.com">Robin@goodnightcampingequipment.com</a></td></tr></table>

Category : General Direct Mail

Save Money On Your Next Bike By Using Mountain Bike Reviews

2008-04-04T18:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Tim Gorman
Mountain bikes can vary hugely in both price and quality, so it is important to be clear about what you are looking for when you go shopping and before you actually buy anything. There is a huge amount of choice so you need to know what you are looking for. If you want it for cross-country then you will need a light mountain bike, but even then you have more options. Do you want a full suspension or just the front shocks? Or would you like some thing a bit heavier such as a free ride? They are much tougher than the cross-country mountain bikes, but will also be a bit heavier to ride and you need to know if you really need it.Probably a good place to start is to find some mountain bike reviews, then you should be able to understand about the capabilities of the different bikes and what may be suitable for you. Cost can also be a major factor in your choice and there can be a huge difference in the cost of different bikes. A good series of mountain bike reviews can help you to make the cost and use comparison effectively so that you know how much it is going to cost you for the bike that you want and why you might want to buy that particular bike. After all there is no point in paying several hundred dollars for a bike if you are not really sure if it is the one for you.There are many places that you can find mountain bike reviews and there should be no problem finding a review of the bike that you are looking for. The easiest place to start looking for mountain bike reviews is in the mountain bike magazines or websites. Mountain bikers are always looking for the next best thing and so there are often tests of the latest bikes and equipment. They all look great in the store but it's not until they behave been really tested well that you can know how good they are.When you have read the mountain bike reviews and think that you know the bike that you are looking for, do test lots of bikes and don't just buy the one that had the best review in the magazine. You need to make sure that it is the right bike for you and no amount of reviews from others can decide that for you. So read all the reviews but make sure that you try the bike of your choice well before you spend you money.Timothy Gorman is a successful Webmaster and publisher of ShoppingForBikes.com. He provides more information on BMX bikes, Pocket Bikes, Folding Bikes and mountain bike reviews that you can research in your pajamas on his website.
Category : Recreation-and-Sports:Cycling

Investing in Structured Settlements

2008-04-03T12:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Lance Winslow
Often some derelict will be awarded some huge amount of money from a noble company due to a run away jury in a Kangaroo Court. Since many times the company paying the money out agrees on a structured over time settlement, the plaintiff of course is a lowly human and has lots of desires for riches and he has little if any cranial capacity to understand the enormous gift the courts have grated him as our nation turns in to a socialist quagmire of re-distributing wealth to those who do not deserve it. Yes a few have been damaged and do deserve something, but usually not. If you disagree with that, you are wrong and I am right.Now then, since these folks who are future Darwin Award Winners and probably free T-Shirt Jerry Springer guest stars have these huge structured settlements you can make some money by buying these structured settlements from them. For instance if a man receives a 10 million dollar settlement over ten year, he will receive 1 million per year. But he may want all the money now instead so he can go buy stuff? So you may be able to give him 6 million in cash now and you get the 10 million over ten years. This means you get a 40% return guaranteed over the next ten years. Now then such an investment is not as good as others in that your annual rate of return is only 4% and many of us know that in the stock market over time we have seen 7.7% annual returns. But it is something to think about. Now then, what if some one receives 1.2 million over 5 years and you give them 500,000 in advance? Now things are looking a lot better arenâ™t they? Any way think on this."Lance Winslow" - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs/
Category : Real Estate

Midwest Gas Price Investigation - Investigation Likely To Continue For At Least Three to Four More M

2008-04-01T11:00:00.000-07:00

Author : David C Skul

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued an interim report to
Congress on its investigation into Midwest gas price increases
that was cited at the reasons that the FTC launched the
investigation. It also provides a status report on the
continuing investigation, including progress and a description
of the work not yet done. The report details the history of the
price spikes of reformulated gasoline (RFG) in the Midwestern
part of the country and how these increases caused Commission
staff to initiate a preliminary investigation in June and
prompted the Commission to begin a formal investigation during
the latter part of July.

The report analyzes many conditions reported as potential causes
of the gas price spikes -
ranging from higher than normal crude oil prices, to the
expectation of compliance with EPA Phase II regulations for
summer-blend reformulated gasoline in high-ozone urban areas, to
the damage to the critically important Explorer pipeline during
March. However, the report says that "although it is likely that
each of these supply factors contributed to the dramatic recent
price spikes in the Midwest, no single factor appears from
staff's preliminary investigation to be likely to provide a full
explanation, and staff does not yet have sufficient information
to assess the impact of these factors in combination."

In accordance with the report, Commission staff is investigating
"the possibility of collusion or tacit coordination, conduct
that could be illegal under Section 5 of the Federal Trade
Commission Act." Due to the abundance of potential interwoven
causes as well as the monstrous amount of evidential information
being collected for the course of the investigation, the report
also states that "this investigation is likely to consume, at a
minimum, another three or four months."

The report shows that on June 29, Commission staff issued the
first round of subpoenas to the nine refiners that currently
supply the Midwestern markets and that within the month, staff
has accepted and logged approximately 200 boxes of
documentation. Around mid August, most documents requested from
the first round of subpoenas will be delivered to the Commission
offices. The Commission also issued a second round of subpoenas
to other refiners last week, and has issued Civil Investigative
Demands (CIDs) to the refiners recently, requesting that the
refiners compile data and answers to all of the Commissions
written questions. Commission staff issued another set of
subpoenas on July 25 to the entities that own or control the gas
transportation pipelines serving the Midwest markets of the
United States. Documents from that set of subpoenas are expected
to begin arriving shortly at Commission offices. The report
further details the Commission's plan to conduct a series of in
depth interviews as part of the investigation. Staff has already
conducted nearly 15 interviews with market participants,
consumers, corporate consumers and many others with knowledge of
investigation relevant information, and continues the process of
capturing pertinent industry-wide data from the Oil Price
Information Service (OPIS). After the documentary evidence has
been reviewed and analyzed, staff will take depositions under
oath of key participating personnel throughout the gasoline
distribution chain in the Midwest United States.

Federal Trade Commission staff will also coordinate all of the
investigative efforts with the Attorney General of Michigan,
Ohio, Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Kentucky, South
Dakota, Indiana, Missouri, and West Virginia.

This article and one-way
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Category : Article Marketing

HD Radios - Still Slow To Arrive But There Are Some Available

2008-04-01T00:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Douglas Hanna
Industry experts say that there are now more than 500 stations broadcasting in HD. Twenty-five of them are even multicasting with HD2 subchannels.But can you actually hear HD radio yet?The answer to this is that you can, particularly if you want to put an HD radio in your car. At least four manufacturers that already offer car audio systems that incorporate HD technology. They are:

Panasonic
JVC
Alpine
SanyoPlus, there are two companies offering HD tuners that can make certain of their models HD capable.

Eclipse
KenwoodThe best place to acquire one of these car audio systems might be eBay. An eBay search turned up a Kenwood KDC-MP4028 at a buy it now price of just $109.95. In comparison, Crutchfield had the KDC MP4028 for $179.99.Online sources for information on HD car audio systems include Nextag (www.nextag.com), BizRate (www.bizrate.com), PriceGrabber (www.pricegrabber.com), PriceScan (www.pricescan.com), and Shopzilla (www.shopzilla.com).In terms of pricing, NexTag has the Kenwood KDC MP828 at a low of $232 at www.sbhcorp.com. And Shopzilla has the same unit at prices ranging from $238 (www.hookedontronics.com) to $379.95 at the Car Domain Store (www.cardomain.com). And the high-end Alpine DVA-9965 is available from several sources at about $1,078.Tabletop HD radios are still in short supply. Boston Acoustics recently began shipping its Recepter Radio HD to selected audio stores. This unit is also available at Crutchfields (www.crutchfield.com), Onecall (www.onecall.com), amazon.com, NPR (www.npr.org), and J&R (www.j&r.com). All four of these outlets have been pricing the unit at about $499.Two other manufacturers have announced HD tabletop radios â" Polk Audio and Radiosophy. The Polk I-sonic and Radiosophy's MultiStream are both due out in early 2006. The I-sonic is expected to sell for around $599 and the Radiosophy Multistream HD for $269.The better news is that new, lower-cost HD tabletops should begin arriving in April to May of 2006.Finally, Yamaha has a superb component receiver, the RX-V4600. This 7-channel, surround-sound receiver is available at specialized audio stores and online at web sites such as DigitalCraze.com, Authorized Electronics (http://store.yahoo.com/authorizedelectronics/), and About Gizmos.com. As of this writing, the lowest listed price for this unit is $1,219.00.Two other companies, ADA (Audio Design Associates) and Day-Seguerra, have announced HD receivers but are yet to provide any information on ship dates or cost.So, for now, if you want to hear HD radio, your best bet is to listen in your car. Beyond that, if you want and HD radio for your home, you may want to wait until April or May before buying.To learn more about this exciting, new technology, pleaee to to my Web site, http://www.hd-radio-home.com, for all the buzz.Douglas Hanna is a retired marketing executive and the author of numerous articles on HD radio, the Internet, old time radio and family finances.
Category : Cruises

Tips On How To Make Some Noise In Your Local Marketplace

2008-03-31T11:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Michael Lemm

Here's some easy and inexpensive ways to make some Noise in
your local marketplace and get you and your MLM business
noticed. In many cases you're not trying to deliver your product
message or directly recruit new distributors but to let your
local area or community know you exist and set a postive image
for your business ... and maybe take a look at what you have to
offer.

- Join the Chamber of Commerce (a cheap investment) and be
active! Attend events, contribute door prizes for "mixers".
Become an officer or join a committee.

- Write an article for your local paper or "Pennysaver" - an
article that's not about you or your product but about the
"problem" that you and your product solve.

- Join local service clubs such as Rotary, Lions, etc. and
network

- Look for local businesses who are "complementary" to yours,
e.g.. a health club/gym and a health/nutritional product. What
could you do together that makes more Noise than either alone?
Run a seminar, sponsor an event, buy a booth at a local craft or
trade show?

- Offer a scholarship to your local high school for a graduating
senior in your company's name. It can be for as little as $100 -
$250 and creates a lot of positive visibility!

- Send announcements often to your local papers - almost
anything can be newsworthy: a new product, attending a
conference, earning a certification, even a new client or great
sales year! Don't be shy!

All these ideas work BUT you have to do them constantly if you
expect to see results!

Also remember...there's no 1 right way. There's only the right
way for you.

Category : Software

Tart Cherries - Natural Cox-2 Inhibitors, Now Available in CherryFlex One A Day Softgels, for Arthritis and Gout Relief

2008-03-31T02:00:00.001-07:00

Author :

CherryFlex Softgels - Highly Condensed Whole Fruit<img src="http://ww1.ContentDesk.com/prfiles/2005/02/16/209833/chnew133x200.jpg" align="right" alt="chnew133x200.jpg">After nearly 4 years of research and development, Flavonoid Sciences of Traverse City, Michigan had created a proprietary new supplement called CherryFlex, a Softgel Capsule made from whole fruit. Each Softgel Contains 100 mg Anthocyanins, 20 mg Flavones and 30 mg Tannins. With Antioxidants, Melatonin, Anthocyanins and two important flavonoids -- Isoqueritrin and Queritrin, tart cherry products are being taken by thousands for relief from gout, fibromyalgia, arthritis and joint inflammation. Daily consumption of CherryFlex Softgels is the easiest way to enjoy all of the health benefits of Tart Cherries. Medical research has shown Tart Cherries to contain anti-inflammatory Cox-2 inhibitor compounds called Anthocyanins. Many people are reporting arthritis, gout and fibromyalgia relief from taking Tart Cherry products. Recent studies show that the antioxidant compounds in Tart Cherries may be 10 times stronger than Aspirin or Ibuprofen in relieving arthritic pain. In addition, Tart Cherries contain Melatonin which helps with the bodies sleep rhythms and Perillyl Alcohol, thought to shut down the growth of cancer cells by depriving them of the proteins they need to grow. Nutraceuticals like CherryFlex are being recognized as safe alternatives to pharmaceuticals. Read the research and testimonials about CherryFlex Softgels at:<a href="http://www.brownwoodacres.com" target="_blank">http://www.brownwoodacres.com</a>

Category : Conservation Politics

4 Profitable Joint Ventures To Improve Your Ezine Publishing Success

2008-03-29T01:00:00.001-07:00

Author : ken hill

Publishing an ezine is a terrific way to promote your products to your visitors and achieve more sales.Your ezine can also be used to carry out joint ventures or ad swaps that will increase your subscriptions or put more money in your pocket.Here's 4 effective swaps that will help you get started right.1. Swap an adThis is the most basic swap that you can participate in, and will create a win-win situation as both you and your swapper will get your ads in front of a targeted audience.Some ads you could swap:1. Top sponsor ads2. Feature ads3. Classified ads4. Solo adsChoose ezines that offer related content to yours, that are informative, and are double opt in.Also try to swap your ad for multiple issues, when you can, because repetition will increase the number of new subscribers you get from your ad.In addition, to helping you to increase your subscriptions, you can also get more new customers by swapping an ad for your business.Like when you swap an ad for your ezine, choose ezines that have subscribers that would be interested in what you offer.Also choose ezines that offer valuable content as they'll have a higher readership, giving you more eyeballs for your ad.2. Swap a recommendation within your ezineBecause your swapper has readers that presumably already trust her and view her as an expert in her field, your recommendation swaps can be even more successful for you than simply swapping ads.Use the place in your ezines where you talk to your subscribers (i.e., your publisher's note) to swap your recommendations.Your swaps could be for your ezines, or you could pull in more sales by swapping recommendations for each others' products or for each other's freebies (i.e., free ebook or teleclass).3. Swap a thank you page ad or recommendationThank you page swaps can be very effective because the people that will see your ad or recommendation have just shown themselves to be interested in an ezine related to yours by subscribing to it.On your thank you page, you could post 3-5 ads for ezines that your new subscribers might be interested in exchange for those ezines doing the same for you and for each other.You could also simply share the benefits of joining another publisher's ezine on this page in exchange for that publisher's winning recommendation of you.4. Run a recommended ezines sectionChoose a few targeted ezines to join forces with, then place each other's ads in this section.With this swap, you'll be able to get your ezine endorsed by several ezine publishers.You'll also be able to get valuable long term promotion of your ezine, as your ad will be run in each of your swappers' issues for the life of your swap.Now, you have four profitable ways to increase your ezine's success through joint ventures. Do some networking with other ezine publishers and find some new swappers that you can partner with and effectively increase your subscriptions or your sales. Ken runs the Net Pro Marketer where you'll find resources to help you grow your business and also informative articles on business, marketing, and ezine publishing. Browse through the articles and pick up a valuable free report for email marketers at: http://www.netpromarketer.com

Category : General Online Marketing

Using an Autoresponder or Reply Email Automator - (Which is Best for Me?)

2008-03-28T18:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Charles West
Autoresponders have made our life so much easier as webmasters and business owners, they reply to emails for us sent to a specific email address to get or give a specific response, like sending clients to a download page, a thankyou for subscribing to our newsletter page or a series of preloaded emails for an eCourse we have developed.If, like me, you have ever tried to save time and setup an autoresponder to answer your clients daily questions, you, no doubt found it clumsy and hard to operate. Remember the multiple email address on your contact page, and then you were only guessing as to the questions that they may ask.Then we setup FAQ pages to try and cover the frequent questions, but we still did not fix all the questions that were being asked. Let alone a prospective client sending a genuine query to the email that they thought was right but alas it was wrong, and the answer they got was just not expected or didn't make sense. Imagine how they felt? Do you think they became a customer? I doubt it.As business or website owners we want an easy to operate system to enable us to answer the same or similar questions over and over to various clients and prospective clients. These queries may cover questions about cost, freight, size, when they can expect a product delivery, or many other similar but different questions all sent to the same email address or form that we put on our website to help with customer service.Now as we only have one email address on our site an autoresponder is out of the question, as they don't vary the answer to suit. Imagine a system to enable you to organise your relpys, so they are easy to find and able to be personalised to suit each client and will save you hours of time, each week.This Reply E-mail Automator is a feature-rich software package that can type the responses to your repetitive, information seeking, E-mail and support questions that you are receiving every single day. The busier your website gets the more E-mail like this you will receive!After looking around the 'net' I found what I was looking for, it's easy to use, cost effective and best of all it saves me time check it out at....
http://www.4-your.com/email_automator/Charles West sells Technology products (cameras, DVD's, sound systems and of coarse MP3 players etc) for a retailer. Over the last couple of years he has developed http://www.4-your.com and
http://www.mp3srock.com

In the process he has learnt many aspects about 'The Web' and all it's variables, come accross many products, some good some not so good. The good ones are worth telling people about, so have a read there is always something new.
Category : Product Reviews

You Don't Have To Be Rich To Be A PC Gamer

2008-03-28T14:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Nathan Holsing
There is a common misconception that you have to take out a second mortgage on your house if you want to get a computer that will run all of the latest and greatest games. I don't know who started the rumor that you need to spend $3000 to get a gaming computer. The truth is, if you are smart about it, you can easily afford to get a high-end gaming computer. Here are a few simple rules to follow to put a gaming computer within reach.

Rule 1. Never buy the newest technology.

I know we all want to be the guy or girl with the newest toy, but you will never be able to keep up with technology. That top-of-the-line graphics card that came out today will be old news in just a couple of months and a new one will be released that is "so much better". Guess what happens to the price of the new graphics card you just broke the bank on? It dropped by about 50%. If you would have just been patient you could have purchased it for a fraction of the cost.

Rule 2. You only have to keep up with the software.
Rule 2 closely correlates to Rule 1. It usually takes software companies two years, give or take, to develop a new game. During this time there are new technology breakthroughs. If they went back and re-engineered the game every time a new processor or a new graphics card came out, the game would never be released. Another important factor is that they want the game to be available to the largest number of consumers. For this reason they do their best to make sure the game can be played on a wide variety of systems. Check out the system requirements for some of the more popular games. A 1.8GHz processor and a Direct X 9 compatible graphics card will run just about everything out there. Granted you might have to turn some of the settings down but it will run it.

Once you reach a certain point the added performance of the new technology is noticeable. For example, the Athlon 64 chip has been out for more than a year, yet there are very few applications that require a 64 bit processor. If you check out benchmarks on the new PCI Express graphics cards you will see that they are running games at 300+ frames per second. When you watch a movie it runs at roughly 60 frames per second. A game will still run relatively smoothly at 20 frames per second. Basically anything over 60 frames per second likely will not be perceived while playing the game. You will only see the difference in your benchmark programs.

Rule 3. Build Your Own Computer

This is important for two reasons. First, you can be assured of better quality components when you pick everything out on your own. When you buy an off-the-shelf system, chances are you are getting a big name CPU and everything else is most likely generic. Do you know what motherboard, power supply, or type of RAM you are getting? This of course, is my personal opinion, I'm not saying every manufacturer builds sub standard machines, but from experience I've had greater longevity from the computers I've built myself. I've also noticed that you will often get little system memory, unless you pay a great deal more for it. You will often get 256MB of RAM with these base system. Windows XP will run, but likely with problems, on 256MB of RAM. It seems to be the most stable with 512MB or more. Other areas they cut costs is by using integrated graphics chips. This saves them having to put in a graphics card, but you will pay the price for it when you try to play a game.

The second reason to build your own computer is that you can cut your costs by stealing parts from your old computer. You can save hundreds of dollars by reusing the drives, case, monitor, keyboard and mouse. Plus, you don't have to worry about calling a technician to install RAM or a new graphics card because you'll already know how to do it.

How Much Can You Build A Computer For?

I just checked out some pricing and you can build a very nice midrange gaming computer for around $600-$700 using an AMD Athlon 64 3000+. If you can steal a DVD drive from your old computer and maybe the case, you can bring the cost down even more. You can build a high-end machine for under $1000. The internet is full of useful websites about how to build computers. Look around and you'll find all the information you need. There are several books published about the topic as well. If you follow these simple rules and do a little research you can enjoy all of the best computer games even if you are on a shoestring budget.Nathan Holsing is the editor of Gaming-Computers.net, a website that provides information on building computers, hardware buying guides, and product reviews.
Category : Weight Loss

The Product Life Cycle of Network Marketing: The Four Stages of Building a Downline

2008-03-28T04:00:00.001-07:00

Author : bbailey51

Most products, whether they are tangible goods or intangible services, go through predictable stages during their natural life. This is usually referred to, in marketing circles, as The Product Life Cycle. These stages are (1) Product Development, (2) Introduction, (3) Growth, (4) Maturity, and (5) Decline.Your network marketing business will behave in a similar fashion, that is, it will go through various stages as you work toward achieving your financial goals. Since Id like to take a positive view, I wont consider the possibility of Decline. Instead, I offer four stages that your downline will go through as you build it for success, what I call the Product Life Cycle of Network Marketing: (1) Introduction, (2) Development, (3) Growth, and (4) Maturity.1) Introduction. This first stage is when you are new to the business and have not yet developed the skill set needed to be successful in MLM. You may not have developed the intestinal fortitude needed to get beyond some initial setbacks. If you have not been involved in a network marketing program before, youre probably making mistakes and, hopefully, realizing you have a lot to learn. You also need to beware of those well-meaning people who will tell you that you wont succeed, particularly family, friends, and co-workers.During Introduction, youre trying to develop a track record of success that you can fall back on when you encounter some resistance. A lot of new networkers quit because they listen to all the naysayers insteadmily, friends, and co-workers.During Introduction, youre trying to develop a track record of success that you can fall back on when you encounter of keeping that burning desire to move through the hard times and stay on course. If your sponsor hasnt worked with you to arm you for success, then its up to you to arm yourself. Listen to the advice of some of the giants in this industry David Butler, Jim Rohn, Bob Schmidt, Sherman Unkefer, to name a few. Theyll teach you the skills you need so youll have the confidence to push forward.2) Development. Congratulations. Youve gotten past the first stage and are building a downline. Now, be a good sponsor by showing your downline how to be successful. Here your goal is to help them recruit their downline. If youve done it right, you should begin to see the business builders emerge. Hopefully, youve got a few who share your vision, and you can begin working with them consistently to build momentum.In the Development stage, you should see people entering your downline that you do not know. This is your personally sponsored distributors bringing in THEIR personally sponsored distributors. Now is the time to make sure your people are teaching their people how to be successful, i.e. that they, too, are being good sponsors. At this point, you should get the feeling that the business is starting to take shape, that it has a chance to grow on its own.You must guard against complacency, however. This is the most important time because you need to build an organization that nt, you should get the feeling that the business is starting to take shape, that it can grow on its own. The vast majority of people who exit network marketing do so during the first two stages, so dont quit on your downline. Keep working with your builders so that they dont leave the business.3) Growth. In this stage, your checks should start looking a lot bigger. Your builders are growing their downline, and you may have several successful legs emerging. You may have hundreds, or even thousands, of distributors in your downline, and your business builders are also earning bigger paychecks.Congratulations, again. If youre in this stage, youve shown that you have the ability to teach business builders how to recruit and develop business builders of their own, and the downline has definitely taken on a life of its own. Youre feeling pretty good about yourself, and you have every right to.Here again, however, you must guard against complacency. You can make a good living in the growth stage but youre not home free yet. Youve got to push forward to the next stage if you really want to create wealth.4) Maturity. Your organization has reached Maturity when you no longer have to shepherd its growth. In other words, no matter what you do, you cant stop it from growing. It has taken on a life of its own, and even if you were to walk away from active involvement in the business, you can depend on a steady stream of passive residual income for the rest of yoother words, no matter what you do, you cant stop it from growing. It has taken on aur life. Isnt that why you got into this business in the first place?Reaching Maturity is rare. Many downlines get close to this stage, but fail because the leader quit too soon. Remember, if you do not nurture your downline, if you do not give them a track to run on, if you do not build their confidence and arm them for success, you will not reach the Maturity stage. Rather, your organization will probably fizzle out somewhere between the Development and Growth stages, and reaching the Maturity stage will be nothing more than a pipe dream. Make it your goal to have your downline reach all four stages. When your personally sponsored distributors believe theyve reached the Maturity stage, then you can feel confident that youve reached that stage. Otherwise, your organization may never reach its full potential.To your success!Bruce Bailey, Ph.D. Dr. Bailey has transformed the incomes of scores of MLMers. His never-miss tactics have been used by thousands to turn their MLM dreams into realities! For FREE access to his e-course, visit http://www.myidealmlm.com

Category : General MLM

Network Marketing Training- Secret MLM Recruiting Formula for Becoming 10 Feet Tall and Bulletproof

2008-03-27T20:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Doug Firebaugh
It happens everyday.Network Marketers go out, and get shot down. And they lay in their own pool of pity and excuses, never knowing that the whole scenario could have been prevented. Network Marketing recruiting is not a hazardous occupation, but you would never know it from some folks.That is why you need "body armor."Just like the kind that the Special Ops Commandos use in their operations. If they get shot at,the armor reflects or stops the bullet, and they live. You need that kind of armor in MLM, and you need to become 10 Feet Tall and Bulletproof in MLM Prospecting!Great! But how do you do that?Easy. It all deals with reflecting the bullets of rejection from your mlm prospects, and doing it handily. That is something that anyone can do, and anyone can succeed at, as reflecting "rejection bullets" is handled by what we call a "Third Party Recruiter."What is that?It simply is a recruiting tool, CD, DVD, or Brochure, or website/webcast, or any other tool that you can use to tell the story of the MLM Network Marketing Company you enrolled in.All you do, is ask them if they have a few minutes, as you would like to share an idea with them, that has really helped your life.For example:"Do you have a cd player in your car?""Yeah sure.""Could you please do me a favor, and put this in and listen to it as you drive home?" It is that simple.All you are doing with these recruiting tools are "sifting and sorting" as they call it, mlm prospects. I call it "Rating and Separating." You simply are rating the ones who show an interest as High, and the rest you are separating into a group for possible product purchases. Again, it is that simple.And when you have given them a CD or DVD, and it has been a day or so, call them, and ask, "What was your favorite part about the DVD?" or "What did you like the best about the CD?" Assume they have listened to it, and focus them on what they liked best.If they did not like it, you did not have to do a presentation, or go through the whole scenario of your mlm company. You saved a lot of time using a recruiting tool. And they did not reject you, but simply did not embrace the message that the tool shared with them.It is called "Rejection Proof" Prospecting and Recruiting! And it can make you feel 10 Feet Tall and Bulletproof because they did not tell you NO, but told you that the CD message was not for them.But wait! It gets better!You can fail 80%-90% of the time and still create a solid business with MLM prospecting tools! And you would be 10 Feet Tall and Spitting Bullets then! How would that happen?It all deals with understanding the numbers in Network Marketing Success.It revolves around sharing a recruiting CD/DVD/Brochure, 2 times a day with someone new. That is all. Just twice a day. We call it the "Two A Day" Formula, and lets say that you have 5 people in your group that is willing to hand out 2 CDs a day. Here is what has proven to happen:5 people x 2 exposures a day= 10 EXPOSURES a day.10 exposures a day x 30 days= 300 exposures a month.300 exposures monthly x 12 months= 3600 EXPOSURES a year.That would yield for the year about:720 new customers (2 out of 10 prospects purchasing- 20%- 20% of 3600 = 720.)180 new distributors (5 out of 100 prospects enrolling in your company- 5%- 5% of 3600 = 180.)1440 referrals (2 referrals from the 720 new customers on average. You will average selling 3 out of 10 referrals.)What would happen to your business if THIS HAPPENED? KABOOOOOM!You would become 10 Feet tall, and Chewing Bullets for Gum! 720 NEW CUSTOMERS! 180 NEW DISTRIBUTORS! 1440 REFERRALS! And that is with a 80% FAILURE RATE!And all you do, is hand out 2 mlm prospecting tools a day. Thats it, and let the numbers do their work.How simple is that? This is all we did for 10 years, and built a HUGE group, as this simple Two a Day is totally duplicable, and multiplies!Become 10 Feet Tall and Bulletproof in your MLM prospecting, by allowing this simple system to wrap you in "MLM Success Armor" and never feel the pain of rejection again! Let the recruiting tool take the hit, as you simply take the CD back. And give it to the next person!It is NOT all about Talent, but TOOLS! And using them as a Third Party Recruiter/Prospector will help explode any business out there. And It is REJECTION PROOF Prospecting/Recruiting!That alone would make anyone 10 Feet Tall and BulletProof in MLM Recruiting!Blessings...DougPassionFire Intl (c) 2005/ all rights reservedhttp://www.passionfire.comhttp://www.theentrancecd.comhttp://www.passionfire.com/pf_heat_7.htmlDoug Firebaugh is one of the top MLM Network Marketing Trainers in the world. Over a million people a month
read his training ezine. He spent the last 7 years traveling the world speaking and training on Success.
He lives in Birmingham Michigan, and you can receive a FREE subscription to his training ezine- The MLM
Success HEAT- at:
http://www.passionfire.com/pf_heat_4.html and

http://www.passionfire.com
Category : Multiple Sclerosis

Types of Keywords

2008-03-27T05:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Rakesh Ojha
Keyword can be classified into three categories :-Single word Keyword-Multiple word Keyword-Keywords based on ThemeKeyword(s) are basic raw material used in Search Engine Optimization (SEO). Keyword selection or Keyword Research as it is called technically, where in we use special tools to find out a list of Keywords (search terms) searched by targeted audience, is one of the most important step in SEO. Keyword can be single word, two or three words, multiple words and theme based.Lets detail each of these one by one . Understanding these categories of keywords would also help one to decide as to their targeting on specific pages.Keyword of Single word----------------------Keyword of Single word is used to target a large traffic but leads to highly competition category of sites. Keyword of Single word are known as generic Keyword(s) where we target general audience. Keyword of Single word does not help to target a specific page for a specific audience.Although, Keyword of Single word helps in bringing huge traffic but these terms are mostly not relevant these days, as, searchers mostly use two or three keyword to find out their required information.Instead single word keywords are good theme keywords.We can use these primary keyword 5 to 7 times in a web page for good theming according of a site. The inside pages of the site can qualify these themes into product or service categories by adding qualifiers to these theming keywords.Example:Keyword âœServicesâ will produce result of all the web sites related to Services which can be United States Department of Health and Human Services, The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services, direct Services, online Services, offline Services, Indian Services, American Services, food Services, agricultural Services, business Services, free Services, paid Services, etc.Keyword of Multiple words-------------------------Keyword of Multiple words is used to target a specific traffic, which leads to high sale, top position in search result listing as well as improves page rank competition. Keyword of Multiple words are known as Specific Keyword(s) where we target a specific audience & not general searcher. Keyword of Multiple words helps to target a specific page for a specific audience.Keyword of Multiple words, more often than not are location specific and related to geographic area of your intended services or products.Keywords based on Theme-----------------------Keyword based on Theme are used to target a highly targeted audience, which leads to quick high sale, top position in search result listing as well as boosts page rank. Keywords based on Theme are known as Conceptual Keyword(s).Keywords based on Theme consists all possible primary Keywords related to the web site therefore attracts high traffic of targeted audience. Keywords based on Theme add quality by providing Keyword Rich Text to search engines, which improve results and provide targeted search result listings.Keywords based on Theme are used in each page of web site to focus on a specific topic correlated to a targeted topic or idea (theme). Keywords based on Theme effectively contribute in growth of informative pages for its site focusing on different related topics.Keywords Targeting Strategy---------------------------Keywords Targeting Strategy is a tactic, which guides in placing primary keywords like Keyword of Single word, Keyword of Multiple words and Keyword based on Theme according to their importance for successful optimizations of the site.I'm an Online Marketing consultant at Mosaic Services- a SEO Company. I regularly write and submit articles on various SE specific topics.To find more articles, please visit my site http://sem.mosaic-service.com
Category : Gambling & Casinos

High Pump Prices? Apply For a Gas Credit Card

2008-03-26T22:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Alan Bernstein
Do you feel that gas prices are constantly moving upwards? Are you on the lookout for some way to reduce your gas expenses, or at least get some rebates for your expenditure?
Well, stiff competition amongst credit cards companies has encouraged collaboration with gas stations to produce greater incentives for consumers. With this, the concept of gas credit cards has been launched, to the delight of many credit card users.With gas credit cards, consumers accumulate points for every charge they make for gas purchases. This works well for credit card companies as gas companies pay them merchant charges for credit card facilities. Apart from that, consumers acquire reward points for their gas purchases and get rewarded with free gas once they have reached a certain point threshold. Also, as gas credit cards are specific to certain brands of gas companies, they gain an advantage in differentiating themselves from the competition.Before you apply for your gas credit card, it's good to run your own research on the various options laid out in front of you. For one thing, gas credit cards only reward points for gas purchases made in gas stations that are affiliated with the card. You can usually find the logos of these gas companies listed at the back of your gas credit card. Thus, if you do have a preference for any specific gas brand, its best that you apply for the credit card that it is affiliated to.Run a search on gas credit cards over the Internet, and you will begin to see the different perks offered to consumers. Certain gas credit cards offer high rebates for a limited period of time. What's more, once this period is over, rebates are also extended to other establishments such as restaurants, dry cleaners and retailers. All of these rebates are credited to your credit card balance to offset any outstanding payments that you have. Other gas credit cards offer 0% APR for an initial period and no annual fees for the first year. Some gas credit cards even go the extra mile by offering no annual fees ever.The application procedure for gas credit cards is simple. Just go online and run a search term on "gas credit cards". Your search results will provide you with a list of gas credit cards available in the market. Select the card that best fits your needs and fill in an online application form. It's that simple!Alan Bernstein recommends Find Credit Cards to apply for a gas credit card today.
Category : Finance:Credit

Reap Benefits When You Submit Articles for Niche Marketing

2008-03-26T11:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Evelyn Lim

Niche markets are small specific markets. Individuals or businesses are grouped together for niche marketing if they share similar interests or needs. For instance, females who play golf can be considered a niche market. Reaching as many people in the same niche is necessary to making your small business work. However, if you are an online business start-up, finding your target audience may be challenging in the beginning. One way to quickly finding your target audience is if you submit articles to article directories as a way of marketing. People reading your articles on a niche topic and who clicks through on the author?s resource box to your website are likely to be your targeted audience. If you are female but don?t play golf, you would probably not be reading an article that teaches on getting the perfect golf swing. However, a female that does play golf is more likely to read one with a topic that says ?How a Female Golfer Can Improve Her Distance?. As you can see, finding your prospective customers in this manner reaps much direct benefits. A good marketing strategy is one that involves focusing your articles on sharing information whilst your site (via a winning sales letter) does the job of converting the targeted audience to clients.It is important, therefore, that when you submit an article, you should look for article directory sites that will be visited by your niche market. If the article directory site is a general one, then ensure that you submit your article to the appropriate category.Writing articles entails some knowledge, but you do not have to be an expert writer. Your article should be focused on solving an issue or problem for your reader. For article topics, think of common questions that are likely to be asked regarding that niche business. Using keywords that are easily identifiable by your niche market within your articles will further ensure that your audience can easily find your writings. Compared with other forms of marketing, writing articles is almost free. You may find some small fees associated with publishing, but they are nothing compared to the high cost of placing ads or doing mailing promotions. Thus, website promotion through articles is a good idea especially if you, as a small business owner, have a limited marketing budget to begin with.Writing and submitting articles for niche marketing may seem a tedious exercise to first-timers. But after you get the hang of it, marketing via articles can be a really easy and effective way to promote your small niche business. What is also highly rewarding is that you can build your credibility through the content you share. Thereafter, as you submit more and more quality content articles for the same niche market, traffic to your site will steadily increase. Evelyn Lim is a writer and an online market strategist. Her article directory site is a growing database of quality articles on more than 100 topic categories. To submit your articles or if you are looking for reprint articles, please visit http://www.ArticleMap.com.

Category : Article Submission

HTML: A Beginners Guide

2008-03-26T08:00:00.001-07:00

Author : oliverpeck62@hotmail.com

Title: HTML: A Beginners GuideAuthor: Oliver PeckArticle: HTML, otherwise known as Hyper Text Mark-up Language, is the language of the internet. It can be used to create all kinds of web pages and designs but can be very complicated to understand. This article will explain the very basics of using HTML. HTML is made up of tags, which are recognised by computers. The starting tag is always and the end tag is . In between goes everything else. Notice the / in the end tag, this signals the end of the html. When writing text you can choose the alignment of the text by using , or and again once the text is written you end with , and . To choose font you use the following tag, (or whatever face font you choose ? Verdana is the most easily read on the internet). Then you would end with . If I were to write ?My name is Oliver? in html with a verdana font with a centre alignment I would write the following:My name is OliverNotice that the font end tag comes first and then the center end tag last.Html doesn?t understand the enter key, which would normally create a sentence on a new line. To do this you need the tag. Anything you type after this will appear on the line below.Hyperlinks are links that when you click on them will take you to another web page. These are very useful and are used widely on the internet. Hyperlinks appear blue and underlined on a web page. Hyperlink tags are the following:Click HERE to visit Google.com This link would say ?Click HERE to visit Google.com? and on clicking on it would take you to google.com homepage. You can include any words you like such as ?Click here? or ?Visit Google?. Any web URL can be placed in the tag also. Notice the end tag is simply in this case. You can also have links that allow people to email you directly from the click of a button. You could have something like ?Click HERE to send me an email? or ?Any questions, contact us HERE?, or whatever you choose. The tag in this case is this:Click HERE to email meAgain, notice the end tag is simply .This article explains some of the very basics of html, enough to write a paragraph or two. When I first started to learn html I was very quickly confused and had no idea what I was doing! One product I highly recommend is One Hour HTML. I used this software and I was completely blown away! Within one hour I went from not even knowing what html stood for to being able to write whole web pages and that is no joke!This software is really that good and will have you writing in html within the hour!To learn how to get this software copy and paste the following link into your browser and it will take you right there: http://ollie24.e14050912.hop.clickbank.netThank you for reading this article and I hope it has been of some help.Oliver PeckTheNo1ResourcePage.com Oliver PeckTheNo1ResourcePage.com

Category : General HTML

Why MP3 Music is the Preferred Format for Your Sony PSP

2008-03-26T06:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Heikal Suhaili
Almost a year ago since the Sony PSP launched in the gaming
market and what impact it's made. The Sony PSP has many
features and aside from games, I find that the music feature
of the PSP is one of the most attractive features. I've
enjoyed listening and downloading music from the internet
and on my Sony PSP where most of them requires MP3 format. I
then started to wonder why MP3 is the most used format
instead of other formats such as Wma, AAC or Atrac3.Originally developed in Germany, a file extension that
encodes music into three layers for the compression of audio
signals known as the MPEG Audio Layer 3 (MP3). To make it
simple, MP3 compresses CD-quality sound by a factor of about
10, while retaining most of the original fidelity, for
instance, 30 MB CD track can be compressed into 3 MB MP3
file.The MP3 files can easily be transferred across the internet
since the files are relatively small. Nowadays, more and
more websites allows you to download MP3 music from the
internet for free and some may charge you for a few bucks.
The most popular ones such as Napster and Kazaa often allows
you to download it for free. However, it creates a problem
for them as they apparently violated the copyrighted MP3
files and as a result facing unnecessary charges. Here are a
couple of websites that I can think of:http://www.realmusicnow.comhttp://www.mp3-freebie.comhttp://www.mp3musiq.comhttp://www.mp3advance.comhttp://klitetk.comIs not just that MP3 can be found on the internet very
easily but can also be converted from music CD. The process
of converting a digital audio track from a music CD to the
MP3 format is widely known as "ripping". Music CDs can be
converted to MP3 very easily using a stand-alone program or
a function in a software-based media player such as Windows
Media Player 10, Real Player, iTunes and others. Windows
Media Player 10 can rip the MP3 bit rates from 8 kbps to
320 kbps but on average 128 kbps (kilobits per second) can
be considered the norm of good quality MP3 files.In my opinion, MP3 rates the best for converting and
downloading music files quickly and easily. However, some
disadvantages might disappoint us PSP and music fanatics
since we're finding the lowest possible MB (megabytes) that
stores in our PSP memory stick. First, it's difficult to
convert music files provided by commercial online music
distribution services such as Sony's Connect and iTunes
Music Store. The supported and protected Digital Management
Rights (DRM) music files aims to control and restrict the
use of digital music. Also, the DRM technology installed on
software-based media program such as Windows Media Player 10
makes it very difficult for us to convert online-purchased
music files into MP3.Second, the highly compressed and quality audio of MP3 files
uses more of our memory stick capacity compare to Atrac3.
The Atrac3 music format compress audio CD files to the
lowest possible MB along with the same if not better audio
quality than the MP3s. This can be good news for us music
fanatics who wants to enhance music collection on their Sony
PSP. Unfortunately Atrac3 is less user-friendly than the MP3
which disappoints most of us.Regardless of this, everyone should get their MP3 and
download it to their PSP. MP3 is the most standardized
format and widely accepted throughout any software-based
media player or converter. You can download or convert it to
your Sony PSP very quickly and easily with its more
intuitive and user-friendly approach.So, start download MP3 music to your PSP now!Stop those Crashes and Troubleshooting and Start
Download Music to Your PSP in less than 3 Minutes!
Heikal Suhaili has created the *ultimate* guide-
"How to Download Music to PSP in 3 Minutes"
FREE Details: http://www.sonypspmusicvideodownload.com
Category : Computers-and-Technology:Games

Dinar Quagmire

2008-03-26T03:00:00.001-07:00

Author : upplysning@longerlifegroup.com

Online speculation regarding the 'investment opportunity' the new Iraqi Dinar represents is becoming a virtual cottage industry ...However,I'm already on record as believing it's a great way to acquire wallpaper one note at a time.With that in mind, I've noticed that a recent statement from the USA government has announced that they've 'hit the wall' budgetarily in Iraq; they've given enough financial aid to rebuild Iraq. Apparently, they've concluded that almost $19 billion in handouts is quite sufficient, especially when half of it was engulfed by fighting the continued insurgency there and thus had no lasting effect as a basis for reconstruction. Instead, the Americans believe it's time for other governments to belly up to the bar and make their own contributions to the cause.That's about as realistic as thinking that the new Iraqi Dinar will amount to anything of value in the near future.Given that, should the USA ever leave Iraq, the country is as liable to devolve into a prolonged civil war as the former Yugoslavia was when an imposed authority --- Tito's Soviet-backed communist confederation --- inevitably fell away. That would be a strong indication that the prospects of a stable currency in Iraq are slimmer than the profile of a starving amoeba.The latest American report on their Iraqi 'investment' borders on the tragic. Details abound of unfinished schools and power plants, unrepaired roads and bridges, undermanned national miliatary forces and overpaid election costs. Again, a primary factor was the siphoning of funds to counter the insurgency.Politics aside, does this sound like the foundations of a national economy that is going to improve anytime soon?The sales point of most online Iraqi Dinar hawkers is that it only takes a minimal upgrade of their economy to profit from an increased exchange value for their currency. Fair enough, but who's going to want to accept it in exchange? And when?There are numerous other opportunities out there which have a much greater growth potential than new Iraqi Dinar, and given the comparative odds, I'd even suggest horse racing.That brings to mind an old bromide comes about the man who strolls by a stable and sees a boy excitedly shoveling through a pile of manure. When he asks the boy why he's doing it, the lad answers, "With all this evidence, there's got to be a pony in here somewhere!"Perhaps, but given the current status of Iraq's economy and the dim prospects for its future, such an allegory may be making two different, but more salient points:- Who would want a horse that made that much of a mess, and- Someone else is going to have to clean it up.The Americans have apparently come to the same conclusion, possibly even thinking that the oil business there is only a one-trick pony.So, for anyone remotely thinking they can do better than the most financially dynamic government in the world and make money from anything representing the Iraqi economy --- especially speculating on its currency --- I can only make one recommendation:Grab a shovel. J Square Humboldt is the featured columnist at Longer Life's website, which provides information designed to improve the quality of living. He's at http://longerlifegroup.com/cyberiter.html

Category : General Finance

Elegant Real Estate Locations in Paris, France III: Invalides and the Eiffel Tower

2008-03-25T14:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Karl Schabmuller
By the end of the 17 th century Louis XIV realised his dream of a hospice for wounded soldiers. Upon the King's request, one of the most renowned architects, Jules-Hardouin Mansart conceived the elegant "Hôtel des Invalides" and its beautiful church with the fabulous golden dome, which was completed in 1708. During the following years, Robert de Cotte designed and laid out the "Esplanade des Invalides", a symmetrical green lawn that links the church to the Seine .
In the late 19 th century, this axis extended to the northern riverbank including the impressive "belle époque ensemble", the "petit" and the "grand palais". The famous "Alexandre III bridge" with its beautiful lampposts was inaugurated in 1896 by the Russian Czar Nikolai II.
The French Foreign Office, the so-called "Quai d'Orsay", is located in a sumptuous "second empire" palace on the east side of the "Esplanade des Invalides". In elegant buildings just a few steps further resides the Canadian Cultural Institute and the British Council.The top floor apartments in "rue Fabert" on the opposite side of the lawn are particularly interesting. They are flooded in light and offer outstanding views of the "golden cupola", the magic "Alexandre III" bridge, and the elegant glass-steel construction of the two "belle époque palais". From here it is possible to see as far as "Sacre Coeur" and " Montmartre ". There is no doubt that this is one of the city's greatest real estate locations.
The southern side of "Invalides" on "Place Vauban" is also very attractive. Inspired by "Saint Peter's" in Rome , the architects initially planned a two-wing colonnade opening at the entrance of the church and forming a large square. This plan was subsequently cancelled and thus the surrounding buildings are now situated very close to the church and its magnificent dome. The so-called "Bréteuil" district nearby is residential and highly prized by its "bourgeois" population.
The remarkable "Ecole Militaire" conceived by the architect Ange-Jacques Gabriel under the reign of Louis XV is only a ten-minute westward walk from here. It marks the final point of the "Champs de Mars" ensemble, which also includes the Eiffel Tower , and the stretch up to the Seine . The buildings on either side of the park date back to the famous "Haussmann period" and many of them have exquisite stone-carved façades.The top-floor apartments are prized because of their fantastic views of the Eiffel Tower and the city, whereas ground floor properties are sought after because of their private gardens, which are particularly rare in Paris .The tree-lined lanes parallel to the park are highly appreciated as they are both quiet and green with the added advantage of being close to shops e.g., "avenue Charles Floquet" and "Elisee Reclus". One of the most famous residents was François Mitterand who lived the last years of his life (and also died) here in "avenue Frédéric Le Play".The attractive residential area to the east offers some truly elegant 19 th century boulevards, for example avenues "Rapp", "Bourdonnais" or "Bosquet". Most of the sumptuous "Haussmann" buildings have extraordinarily beautiful stone-carved façades with little balconies. In some places, "Art Déco" buildings with opulent ornate façades can be seen eg, "29, ave Rapp", by J. Lavirotte.
Many Parisians enjoy living in the residential area between "Invalides" and "Champs de Mars/Eiffel Tower" as it offers both attractive real estate and an excellent infrastructure including the "rue Cler" street market, which is a real eldorado for gourmets. The charming "gros Caillou" district appears rustic in comparison and is considered the least expensive neighbourhood within the 7 th arrondissement.KHS is a real estate agent in Paris "KHS Apartments Paris " specialising in selling and renting first- class apartments in the French capital. "
Read also the new " KHS Paris Real Estate Blog "
Category : Real-Estate

Last Will And Testament

2008-03-24T20:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Josh Riverside
A will is a legal document that is written to guarantee that the money and belongings of the testator are left to people or organizations desired by him. Without a will, the estate can be subject to many problems. Relatives may also dispute over property, leading to lengthy court proceedings.In the eyes of law, a will or testament is a document by which a person or the testator regulates the rights of others over his property or family after death. In a strict sense, a will is a general term, while testament applies only to dispositions of personal property. A will is also used as the instrument in a trust.A traditional will is also called a last will and testament, or a testamentary will. It is a legally binding document that defines how the testator would like his property distributed when he dies. It may also define his wishes concerning who becomes guardian over his minor children.It should be noted that letters of instruction are not legal documents. Items of personal importance or high value should only be included in a will. The person making a will is called the testator. Those specifically receiving items stated in the will are called beneficiaries. On a side note, the term "heir" actually applies to those who inherit an estate when no will exists. When a testator creates a will, he names an executor to handle all the administrative aspects of the will. The executor's primary responsibility is to ensure that the will is executed based on the wishes of the testator and that the items named in the will are correctly distributed to the beneficiaries.Wills are made up in a manner that specifies whom the assets should be distributed amongst, such as a spouse, brother or grandchild. Beyond this, a will may also provide some specific instructions about dividing up property. A will has specific requests like wanting an asset to go to a friend or having it donated to a charity. In all, a will or testament provides a legal platform to deal with property of the testator and avoid conflicts.Wills provides detailed information on Free Wills, How to Write a Will, Last Will And Testament, Living Wills and more. Wills is affiliated with Living Will Forms.
Category : Legal:Living-Will

The Boy's First Shot Fathers Remember Your Role

2008-03-24T16:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Lance Cherry

It was January 2006 and the snow had begun to fall on the mesa. The boy wished to take a single shot on his father's 12 gauge. It was his first shot on a big gun and you could see the lack of confidence in his eyes.He paused to ask his dad if it was going to hurt. His father knew it would. No boy. Just pull the trigger. Two deep breaths and then Kabloom! The boy's eyes were wide open with excitement. He took a breath and then yelled, Yahoo! Did you see that dad? Did you see my shoulder pop out?The father asked, What did you shoot? Quick witted, the boy replied, Your gun dad. With that, the boy turned his attention to the future and asked, Can we go turkey hunting now?As it is with many fathers and sons, this was my son's first time pulling the trigger on a big gun. The anticipation, uncertainty and thrill of trying something big, was almost more than he could bear. I am sure, like many boys, this will be a memory he will keep forever.In an ever-changing society that is tearing the masculinity out of raising children, I find myself in a fight to emphasize the value of my son becoming a man. After all, the single biggest issue facing society today is the absence of the father in the home.As mainstream society tries to change family values and child rearing, I ask, was not the most important teachings of Jesus based on his own relationship with the Father, which is God?In John 5:19-20, Jesus defined the role of a father saying, Most assuredly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son also does in like manner. For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all things that He Himself does; and He will show Him greater works than these, that you may marvel.Society, in the name of tolerance and political correctness, has managed to destroy that which God himself holds sacred.My challenge to you is to push aside this modern movement and live up to Gods expectation of you as a father. Embrace your most important mission and teach your sons what you have learned. They will grow up to bring you honor.Author Russ Chastain writes, Nothing in hunting is more important than the future. No hunter should value his serious hunting higher than that done with a kid.The same can be said of life, fathers and sons. Next time you go hunting, remember your role, let your son take his first shot. Lance Cherry, a native of New Mexico, has worked several years in the outdoor industry, with New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and the New Mexico State Parks Division. Lance is a founder of Crosshairs for Christ, a Christian ministry with a desire to connect and change lives by spreading Christs message to sportsmen and outdoor enthusiasts through activity-based fellowship. For more information contact Lance Cherry, cherrydesigns@excite.com or visit the Crosshairs for Christ website, http://www.crosshairsforchrist.com

Category : GEneral Sports: Hunting

What Is The Best Web Hosting Service?

2008-03-24T14:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Larry Washington
Is there really a magic formula to determine the best web hosting service? I'm sure thousands of people want to know the answer to this question if there was one. To be honest, there is no absolute correct answer to this. As you know, individual results will vary from person to person in terms of what they want out of a service.If there was a way to find the "best" web host to ensure you made the right choice, would you be interested?Hopefully the answer is yes!I want you to understand that there is no "best" web hosting service but there are some measures or steps to help find what's best for you.The tips that follow should help someone new or experienced choose the best possible host the first time around. It can even help those looking to switch hosts avoid making the same mistake twice.Here's a checklist to help you get started in choosing a great host:* Look at what's in front of you* How is the service and support?* Testimonial testLet's take the first point; look at what's in front of you. No, really. Look directly at what's in front of you. When you visit the web host, how does it present itself visually? If it doesn't look up to par in terms of presentation you may want to avoid them.Low-quality graphics may indicate your typical "fly-by-night" type of company that won't be around very long. Even though anyone can produce high-quality looking websites, this should raise a red flag if identified. While we're on the look of the website, another turn off should be misspellings.Misspellings can indicate a business that doesn't take pride in how they operate. Would you trust your website in a company that doesn't take pride in their business? There's no excuse for misspellings when a lot of applications contain spell checkers.Service and supportThis is by far the most important thing to have no matter what type of product or service you get. After all, things do fail or break down and you may need extended support. A way to check the reliability of a web host is to put them to the test.Find a contact number (some even provide a toll free number) or send them an email to inquire about something they offer. That way you can see how long it takes before you actually talk to someone or for them to respond to emails. A good response time for emails should be within 24 hours. Especially with the large volume of inquiries they may receive on a daily basis. Doing this will allow you to see how friendly and helpful their support staff is as well.Testimonial testI'm sure you've seen many websites post testimonials to help give credibility to their products and services. A good cross check you can do is send the person who gave the testimonial an email to find out what they like and don't like about the web host.You should be able to contact the individual since websites will usually include the person's URL back to his or her site as an incentive for giving the testimonial. Doing this task will help you make a better decision whether or not to invest in the hosting service according to the feedback received from the customer.Using these three points is a great way to gauge whether or not the host is a good choice for you. Taking the time now to research the service will save you headaches and disappointment down the road.I know there were 3 tips mentioned above, but I wanted to throw in a fourth way to help you get the best hosting solution possible. A word of mouth recommendation is one way you can't go wrong. Ask a few friends or colleagues if they have used a particular host and for how long.You may want to ask if they've switched from another host and the reason for changing. Be sure to inquire why they continue to stay with the current host. This is a great way to gather the pros and cons of certain hosts based on the first-hand experience of others. It will also help you make a better informed decision before deciding to invest your hard earned money on a host provider.Larry Washington is the webmaster and publisher of GR8 Website Hosting where he provides great information on a low cost web host. You can browse his website to get more information at http://gr8-website-hosting.com. The article above can be republished only if this entire resource box is left intact along with the original hyperlinks.
Category : Business:Web-Hosting

Editorial: Christmas or Xmas?

2008-03-24T13:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Anonymous

To all of my concerned citizens:

I walked into Wal-Mart today and the retarded person, who could
barely speak a syllable correctly [thanks to EOE employment],
mushed out 'Happy Holidays' to me as I entered the church
[sorry, supermarket]. I looked at Timmy with a glare of
discontent; I am a born-again Christian and I prefer to hear
'Merry Christmas'...I guess the short yellow bus didn't bring
you to such enlightenment. Being an alcoholic and heroin addict
brought me to Christ. This is the time of our Lord and I don't
appreciate the trained hippies excluding Christ from our annual
nomenclature.

Why did he tell me 'Happy Holidays;? Hasn't he been waching Fox
News Channel? Bill O'Reilly is explicitley detailing the
problems that political correctness has caused our country.
Corporations are too busy trying to sell wares than pass along
our American [they're takin' our jobs!] culture. 90% of our
country are Christians, hence Christ, thus celebrating our
annual holiday of 'Christ'mas, not Happy Holidays. That just
gives leeway to the damn Jews and Muslims [who are godless
heathens anway- notice my non-capitalization of god] and their
attempts to change our meaning of Christmas. Yes, Adam Sandler
is cute, but is still going to hell. I buy my kids all the toys
they put on their wish list to Santa Claus, and there is nothing
more spirited than that. They are happy on December 25th, just
as the world was happy when Christ was born to save our sinning
souls. He was nailed to a cross for that retard at Wal-Mart to
tell me 'Happy Holiday'?

Let's take our country back. Hell, with all the Mexicants and
other foreigners trying to attack our country daily, the least
we could do is give thanks to our Lord and Saviour that will
save us from these damn freeloading bastards. Keep Christ in
Christmas, and tell that Wal-Mart loser you are a Christian!

http://www.blackholenews.com

Category : Movie Reviews

Eleven ways to treat your distance lover

2008-03-24T11:00:00.000-07:00

Author : Allen Brown

Love does not see any distance. The history tells, love always gets stronger, while two lovers live at distance. Ancient Indian poet Kalidas wrote poetry called meghdut on the same line thousand years ago. In his poetry the Yaksha Kumar (Man) send a love message to his dearest one by the way of moving clouds. In the present time, circumstance does not allow people to live together, so Valentine is the only way to showing your affection with your partner on this very special day. If you live in Chicago and last year your love one gets shifted to New Jersey for sixth month training. In February, if you are busy with your present office work and not able to go to New Jersey to celebrate valentine day with your spouse. Despite of this if you want to celebrate the auspicious occasion and you want to give something special to your dearest one you must takes extra care for that because distance make the difference to take care of her emotions and attachments. In this modern world, there are lots of ways and means are open to send soft messages cards. You can send flower across the border at your choices by just logon to any b2b site. In spite of how far away from each other, there are lots of things you can do for your dear one. Here are some ways to express your love to your dearest one at distance. 1. Send Valentine Card available on the Internet through various websites2. Send a bouquet of flowers to your lover's place via special delivery or send flower online.3. Set message via telephone services as wakeup call for Valentine's morning, ensuring that the first words your lover hears on Valentine's Day are either "I love you?.4. Send singing Valentine mail to surprise your sweetie at home or at work place.5. Send packets of chocolates, candy along with your recent photograph.6. Send the love letter or putting together a Valentine's scrapbook to send to your lover the following day.7. Send a poem you wrote yourself.8. Schedule a chat via messenger toward the end of the evening9. Promise your dearest one to plan a trip for a weekend to enjoy belated Valentine?s Day. 10. Give surprise gift like diamond ring, watch or jewellary to your spouse while you meet at weekend. 11. In case your spouse has every, consider a gift certificate as a special gift of her choice. Distance does not make any difference; you can enjoy your Valentine with equal emotions with your love heart. I believe, this may get more closer with your love one. Enjoy a great day with your love at distance and promise her to touch her emotions in the next meeting. Have a Great Valentine both of you. Allen Brown is a freelance writer for http://www.1888pressrelease.com/home-and-family-0-20.html

, the premier website to Submit Free Press Releases for any announcements including launching of new product or services, new website, announcing new hires, sponsoring a special event or seminar and more. He also freelances for the premier article submission site http://www.1888articles.com/shopping-articles-22.html

Category : General Art & Entertainment: News & Talk Shows

Cooke Family Speaks in ?Our Uncle Sam?

2008-03-24T10:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Erik Greene

Some of the greatest advancements in modern music are credited to an artist who died over 40 years ago, yet only lived to be 33?Sam Cooke. Now his dynamic achievements are remembered in his most intimate biography to date, ?Our Uncle Sam: The Sam Cooke Story From His Family?s Perspective? (Trafford Publishing, $22.50, www.ourunclesam.com), written by his great-nephew Erik Greene.After six years as the reigning voice in gospel music, Cooke burst onto the pop scene with the 1957 release of his million-selling single, You Send Me. The song?s innovative blend of Gospel, Pop, and R&B earned him the title of ?The Man Who Invented Soul? and stayed on the charts an amazing 26 weeks, rising to #1 in both the Pop and R&B markets. The next single he?d release, I?ll Come Running Back to You, soared to #1 on the R&B charts as well. Cooke would eventually chart an amazing 34 Top 40 R&B hits over his eight year pop career, with most like You Send Me and I?ll Come Running Back to You written by Sam himself. Cooke also wrote and recorded such classics as Chain Gang, Only Sixteen, Cupid, Wonderful World, Having a Party and A Change is Gonna Come, and was among the original inductees into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.In ?Our Uncle Sam?, Greene not only emphasizes Sam Cooke?s accomplishments in music history, but gives the reader an inside look on the childhood influences that drove him to excel. Sam adopted his winning attitude from his strict but loving father, the late Rev. Charles Cook, Sr., who taught his children to never give less than their best effort and stressed the importance of family unity. ?My mother and father were both family oriented, and they instilled in us ?all for one and one for all?,? Sam?s youngest sister Agnes remembers. ?We were a very tight, close-knit family. If you had a problem with one of us, you had a problem with all of us.? The Sam Cooke saga is a remarkable one, and is best retold by his closest family members. ?Our Uncle Sam? follows Cooke from his days growing up in Chicago?s Bronzeville neighborhood to his rise as a Gospel and R&B superstar and music industry entrepreneur. It takes the reader behind the scenes with intimate family photos and the compelling testimonies of his brothers, sister, nieces, nephews and children. The general public knew Sam Cooke as a singer, songwriter, and producer whose musical style has often been imitated but never equaled. Now, the intimate facets of his life are explored in detail in ?Our Uncle Sam??from the driving force behind his success, to the special moments spent with family, to the pressing issues he faced in the last years of his life. Hear Sam Cooke?s story as it should be told--by the people who knew him long before he became a household name.Erik Greene is the grandson of Sam?s oldest sister, Mary. ?Our Uncle Sam: The Sam Cooke Story From His Family?s Perspective? can be ordered through www.ourunclesam.com or by calling (888) 232-4444 toll-free in the USA and Canada. Erik Greene is a Financial Advisor by trade who lives in Chicago's South Suburbs with his wife, Augustine. In his spare time he enjoys skiing, traveling, and cheering on his local sports teams (Go White Sox!)

Category : General Art & Entertainment: Books

Exponentially Grow Your Business Sharing What You Know - Using Eight Types of Audio Programs

2008-03-24T07:00:00.000-07:00

Author : Coco Fossland
If you are a solo-entrepreneur or small business owner that provides expert services to your market, and you're not harnessing the value and impact of offering audio programs, you are missing out on the opportunity to exponentially expand your business.Unlike the services you provide to clients, which are offered one-on-one, audio programs can be packaged and delivered to large numbers of people as a passive-revenue product.So, you may be wondering, what exactly are Audio Programs and Products?? And what would be the be benefit of producing them?Here are 8 Types of Audio Programs that you can use to expand your impact and profits.1. Teleclasses/teleseminars - These are courses that take place over a telephone bridge line. Multiple people call into a conference line and a facilitator leads a learning experience to the group.What' the benefit? In this format, the teleclass leader can provide value-added services, not to just one person, but to many.2. Live seminars - Give yourself expanded exposure by offering your expertise in a live seminar to large groups of people. Because it's live, and not over the phone, your ability to make connection, give support and deliver added impact is dramatically increased.What's the benefit? There's no better way to build your platform as an expert. People who effectively deliver their programs in a live setting repeatedly report being able to increase their consulting and coaching fees.3. Digitally Recorded Programs - If you're giving teleclasses or live seminars, but not converting them into recorded audio products, you are missing out -- not only on lost revenue, but on lost opportunity to help a larger audience!What's the benefit? By recording a teleclass and re-packaging it into a digital product that can be accessed immediately on the web day or night by web surfers -- you provide a way to grow your business and your impact while you sleep.4. Audio CD Programs - Once you've recorded a program and made it available on the web for instant download, why not kick it up a notch and offer it as a CD program, just like the Tony Robbins?What's the benefit? Not only can you expand your reach to book stores and other physical outlets, you also build your image as an expert. Also, if you're giving some kind of live speech, keynote, or seminar, Audio CD's are a great product to sell at the back of the room.5. Recorded Interviews - Maybe there's an expert out there that has information you'd like to share with your audience. A great way to disseminate information is to interview the expert on a specific topic. And as you interview them, record it, and then repackage it as a stand-alone audio program.What's the benefit? You get to provide needed information to your audience without becoming an expert yourself. Also, the more you can partner with others, the better your exposure. Because both of you will be promoting the product, you will receive increased exposure to a larger audience.6. Home Study Programs - Blend together the very best of what you have to offer -- recorded content, worksheets, learning guides, eBooks, video, assessments, or other materials into a multi-media program that surrounds a customer with support without your physical time, energy, or presence required.What's the benefit? Home Study programs offer an excellent way for your audience to receive incredibly high value without spending nearly as much as they would working with you one-on-one. Not only can you build your expertise and help people at a lower price-range, a well-build Home Study Program can become a funnel for people ready and willing to pay your higher one-on-one fees.7. Meditation/Visualization Audio Programs - If you lead meditation groups, teach yoga, or use inner visualizations with clients, why not make these experiences available to a larger audience? These could be offered digitally for download, or they could be packaged as Audio CD's.What's the benefit? Imagine your audience being able to tap into the sound of your voice and connect to their higher wisdom whenever they choose. Without leaving the conveniece of their home, your audience can experience inner awareness and discovery... and meanwhile, you can supplement your income.8. Hypnotherapy audio programs - If you are a hypnotherapist trapped in the continuous rat-race of trying to effectively attract new clients, offering recorded audio programs is a great way to expand your reach and land new clients. It could be a "Stop Smoking" maintenance program for people who have already come in for a session with you, or it could be a whole "Loose Weight Now" system that doesn't even require your physical presence.What's the benefit? Stronger, lasting results your clients will boast about to their friends and a great way to supplement your income.Copyright 2005 Coco FosslandAbout Coco FosslandThe author of the forthcoming book, The Power of Trust: Trust Yourself, Transform Your World, Coco Fossland is a nationally recognized expert in personal transformation, self-empowerment and self-healing. Blending a decade of technology and strategy consulting with her expertise in self-trust transformation, Coco's business is focused on supporting people passionate about creating businesses that make a difference in the world. She helps her clients fuse their higher path with their businesses, creating institutions and organizations that profoundly impact the world one person at a time.http://www.cocofossland.com
Category : Politics

Scala 500 Bluetooth Headset

2008-03-24T03:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Anna More

When selecting a Bluetooth headset, it's very important to consider what kind of lifestyle you have, and what your daily activities consist of. If you spend the majority of your time inside, the Scala 500 Bluetooth headset probably isn't your best bet. However, the Scala 500 Bluetooth headset is the perfect solution if you're looking for a headset that performs well in outside conditions.The Scala 500 uses patented WindGuard technology - you'll definitely hear the difference, especially when biking or going for a walk on a windy day. WindGuard within the Scala 500 eliminates all noise created throughout the environments you surround yourself. The Scala 500 headset also features echo canceling filters, which help to further improve the performance of the headset.The Scala 500's WindGuard technology defeats any wind interferences much better than any other competing Bluetooth headset around. Although there are already a number of headsets that feature noise and wind interference canceling technology, it is important to point out that Cardo has also made wise moves with the microphone placement within the headset. If you're a cell phone user in a location that's prone to wind, like Chicago, this headset should be a must-have on your list.Talk time for the Scala 500 is good at 9 hours - standby time is around a week or so. At only 2 to 3 hours to fully recharge the Scala 500 powerful battery, you are back on the road sooner than expected. The Scala 500 uses the rechargeable Li Pro battery technology as available in a wide range of Bluetooth headsets these days. Although the charging time may leave you hanging, please note that its standby time is quiet impressive even with today's technology and resources.By using an optional VersClip, you have the added bonus to attach ear loop and sunglasses to your Bluetooth headset. Up until recently the only manufacturer that came close to designing similar technology was Motorola with their RAZRWIRE Sunglasses/Headset. Although either will come in handy the price is quiet well noticeable and will certainly draw a lot of attention to the new Scala product line from CARDO.With outstanding predominance and memorable quality products overall, it is safe to say that Cardo will be a brand that will stick around. The Scala 500 had a few features we found pretty handy, like voice dialing, selective call rejecting, as well as easy toggle from phone to headset. Voice dialing among many features is especially handy when you are running a busy schedule and perhaps a lot of commute. Driving from point A to point B can already be a hassle therefore the Scala 500 voice dialing feature will ease the way you communicate. With the simple push of the side-button, and saying the name you wish to dial it makes it a simple 2-step process to get in touch with business partner or the loved one.Overall, the Scala 500 is a great headset, with no audio problems whatsoever. It shows off with its lightweight and streamlined design but it certainly will not leave you hanging when it comes down to demonstrating great quality and superb performance on the go. Review brought to you by Netfreez. For a selection of Scala Headsets, visit us online.

Category : General Business and Finance

SpainDirect4U add new build developments to Costa Blanca portfolio

2008-03-24T01:00:00.001-07:00

Author : PR Sending

class="view_date">February 7th, 2007

An Analysis of Indian Oil & Gas Industry

2008-03-24T00:00:00.001-07:00

Author : jmarriot

Indian oil and gas industry is one of the largest contributors to both the central & state exchequers in the country. Total share of this sector is estimated to be around $13.58Bn at present. State-run companies hold most of the 25 refineries in the country, having a capacity to process 2.5Mn barrels daily.In terms of petroleum demand, India is at number six in the world. It's predicted that the country will replace South Korea & emerge as the 4th largest consumer of energy by the year 2010, following U.S, China and Japan. Oil & gas exploration, distribution and marketing of petroleum products, crude oil refining and natural gas distribution are the main sub-sectors of the Indian oil & gas sector. So far, Indian oil and gas companies have been operating in specific segments of value chain.Growing demand for energy in India & the need to service, for ensuring that the economic growth is not compromised, brings in business opportunities in this sector.The significance of this sector can be determined from the following facts: Indian oil and gas sector was accountable for 40% of primary energy sources in 2004. All of the five companies listed in Fortune 500 operate in the oil and gas sector. Million barrels of oil per day in 2004, 3% of the world's refining capacity. India is ranked as ninth largest importer of crude oil in the world.To get more information on the oil and gas industry in India you can read the report "Indian Oil & Gas Industry: An Industry Analysis" by RNCOS. Just click on http://www.rncos.com/Report/IM038.htm.

RNCOS is a leader in the field of online business research and specializes in industry research on various business verticals. To read our other reports, please visit us at http://www.rncos.com/Report.htm or email us at info@rncos.com RNCOS offers complete e-publishing solutions for your business. We provide personalized world-class content development and management solutions that are qualitative and result-oriented.

Category : General Industry: Oil / Energy

Build Your Opt-In List Today

2008-03-23T21:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Michelle Cobbs
There are many services available to help your with building a opt-in list. I am going to show your how to start building your opt-in list starting today right now this very minute. It not hard, in fact it is very simple. All you need is a little time, a free ebook or report, and an auto responder service that is it.As mentioned you need a good, well-written ebook or report to get this started off on a good note. This can be something you have written or it can be from someone well known. It's totally up to you just keep in mind that the topic should be something to people want to know more about or how to do something.I have used this technique to build my list, it is a slow process but it works well. Of course the first thing you should do is read the ebook or report that
you are going to be using as the "bait" for building your list. Thatâ™s right I said, "bait", essentially thatâ™s what it is because you are presenting it to the world if they are interested they will bit by providing you with their name and email address.This is the overall goal of this process, you want them to take action, request a copy of what you are offering. No more, no less.Okay, now that you have read the ebook you are going write a brief description of what the ebook is about no need to write much all you basically need to say is how good or bad the ebook is. Does it help solve your problem if it did, how and why it solved your problem?Next your are going to build a one page site with a cover of the ebook (if available) along with a sign up form that you will set up through your
auto-responder system. Upload your new page to your server. Depending on what system you use they will have to confirm their request to join. You should also note on your sign up page that they must confirm their request so that they immediately check their email right away so they receive the ebook fast.Lastly, you have to set up your message in your auto responder system; this is how they will get the ebook. Be sure to thank them, you could at this time also give them an unannounced bonus that was never mentioned at all. This will surely be a hit, since they were not expecting anything more other then the free ebook or report.Now all you need to do is promote your new page offering your great free ebook or report that all visitors just can't do without. You could do this with all free informational products you have, there is no limit to the number you can offer it is a great thing if they are new, with fresh content and not the same stuff all over the internet. You will have no problem getting sign-ups especially if its something in demand, people will want it if they feel it is of value.Michelle is a mom, wife full-time worker outside the home plus runs a home business part-time. She recently started a new business learn more about that by visiting her at http://lifetimeincome.com/MichelleCobbs
Category : Digital Products

War Declared On Instant Messenger: How to Stop Your Child from Wasting Their Life Away Online

2008-03-23T18:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Christopher Pizzo M.Ed.

Hey Parents! I hate to tell you, but there is no such thing as ?useful instant messaging?. Your crafty child might try to take advantage of your lack of ?Techie? know how when they say in that whiney voice... ?But Mom?I?m IMing my friends about homework.? Don?t buy it! They are simply playing up the school is important bit so they can get you off their back.To be fair, yes kids might spend a couple minutes discussing their school assignments. But for every 30 seconds of actual work, another 30 minutes are lost in useless chatter with the hundred or so ?friends? on their buddy list! And if your child consistently pulls the ?I didn?t know the assignment? excuse, then bigger school problems than instant messaging are on the horizon.You can easily stop the hours upon hours of instant messaging with one simple gesture? PULL THE PLUG! Now, I don?t really mean to literally pull the plug out of the computer on your child. The last thing we want to do is get into a power struggle with your child, or break your $1500 computer. No, what I mean is simply lay down the law. Allocate a specific period of instant messaging time per day. One hour of IMing is not going to kill anyone or their social life. And in that one hour time slot they will have plenty of time to discuss homework, their teacher, the new kid in class, or whatever. Right now you might be saying, ?That sounds great Chris, but what happens when my kid refuses to adhere to the allotted time?? When your child disregards your house rules it simply means they have too much free time on their hands. We all know that idleness is the devil?s playground. It might be time to up their chore responsibilities. Or sign them up for an after school art class or even a sport or karate. Sometimes the best answer is to simply spend some quality time with them. Set up a time each day to play scrabble, take a walk or cook something together. It really doesn?t matter what it is, just play to your kids interests and keep them busy. The internet is a great tool, especially when it comes to education and homework. In the future we can expect to see an even greater merger of it with our every day lives. However, right now it?s the great stealer of time. Getting sidetracked is very easy, (as some of you might know) and with the media induced, shortened attention spans of our children, whole young lives could waste away online. Teach your kids to use the Internet and Instant Messaging as intended. Sometimes we use it for work; sometimes we use it for play. Just be sure your kids know the difference between the two. Chris Pizzo is the President of Noble Learning Systems Inc. and the developer of the NEW ?Amazing Homework Motivator? program. Why are thousands of kids happily sitting down to do their homework each and every night?...Without a fight, an argument, or even a reminder? Click here now ==> http://www.HomeworkMotivator.com

Category : General Kids and Teens

The Unforseen Consequences of Spyware

2008-03-23T16:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Mitch Johnson

The popularity, availability and speed of the internet continue to grow which in turn has consequences such as spyware threats. With all of these advancements on the internet spyware also advances and creates more prevalent and sometimes dangerous threats. Spyware can easily be downloaded while surfing the internet and downloading files or software.

Usually, sites with questionable material are those that contain spyware. When visiting one of these sites spyware is automatically downloaded onto your computer or done so when you authorize the download of a file off the site. Spyware has spread to other sites now, sites that are seemingly secure and legitimate, but still download spyware on your computer. Microsoft has released its solution to spyware, however hackers have found ways around it and viruses to stop its capabilities.

Cookies, which are picked up each time you visit nearly any website, are often harmless and cleaned up easily but the information the can track and record can sometimes become a problem. The cookies coming from websites allow some webmasters to pick up data about you, including personal information that could lead to identity theft.

The cost of identity theft and fraud is estimated to cost trillions of dollars world wide. Protect yourself from spyware and other threats by using multiple spyware removal and prevention tools. Run both spyware and virus software regularly and keep each updated with the latest defined threats. When keying in personal information online do so only at secure web sites.

About the author:

Mitch Johnson is a successful freelance author that writes regularly for http://www.spyware-removal-made-easy.com/, a site that focuses exclusively on spyware removal software, as well as tips on how to prevent spyware from popping up on your computer. This site articles on has spyware guard, http://www.spyware-removal-made-easy.com/spyware_guard.htmas well as spyware scanner, http://www.spyware-removal-made-easy.com/spyware_scanner.htm

Category : World Affairs

WORK FROM HOME OPPORTUNITIES TRIED, TESTED AND THE TRUTH REVEALED

2008-03-23T14:00:00.001-07:00

Author : James Douglas

I've seen a number of work from home business opportunities arise on the Internet in Australia over the past year or so, any 99% of them have been scams. Indeed, they are fairly easy to spot and most people will lose their money and get ripped off. This is a free report provided for the general public in Australia.We've all seen the ads - "work from home", "amazing business opportunity", "get rich quick" etc. There's been an influx recently so I decided to undercover and find out the real truth behind the leading ones, the ones that seem to appear everywhere.My first challenge was to "vet" these companies and opportunities without having to pay the money to join. I know how many of them are scams out there so I really didn't want to throw money down the drain just to provide this report. I needed a way to gain access to the information these companies provide for free so I could see if what they are saying was any good and the information they provide really could help you start your own home business and work from home. After a couple of restless nights, I realised that what makes these "scam artists" tick, is money. Posing as an investor, I offered to buy their websites off them for a lump sum in cash - obviously this depended on the quality of information they provide. Therefore, the people that ran these websites were more than willing to let me have a look at what they offer as they realised a big pay day might be round the corner - I was appealing to their greedy nature and hence went undercover and assessed no less than 30 work from home opportunities.What I found was astonishing. In fact, it amazed me more than I thought it would. I was ashamed at what some of these people were doing. In all but ONE of the 30 websites I reviewed and tested, I found the following:Out of date linksIncorrect informationNo phone or email supportThe proof of earnings turned out to be falseIt was impossible to get back your investmentI realised that the boom in online work from home scams was reaching epidemic proportions and that 29 out of the 30 websites that I reviewed (and they are all popular) we an utter disgrace.There was one that bucked the trend, one that even I was suitably impressed with. It was like a small ray of sunlight in an otherwise dark and rainy day. This website was a fairly new one, called TheRichPom.comThe first thing I liked about the website was that the guy running it had published his ABN and address - something that you clearly wouldn't do if you was operating a "scam". This gave me food for thought and after reading the information he is selling (basically how to earn excellent money online and how he has done it), I was actually taken back by how well it was explained, and more importantly, how I could earn real money working from home.I even put some of his strategies to the test and they DID work. He is a clever lad and praise should be given where praise is due. He operates probably the only genuine work from home website in Australia.He calls himself "The Rich Pom" and you can see why! He website address is www.TheRichPom.com and it is certainly the only one I would recommend as something that actually works. I have no hesitation in holding my hands up and say that this "Rich Pom" is doing something different. And another thing - you can actually speak with the guy when you join, so don't think you'll be left alone to earn your millions. He will help you.So, that's basically it. Out of 30 work from home business opportunities I researched on the Internet, I was disgusted with the results. Most of them are pathetic scams run by people only intent on taking your money. Credit must be given to TheRichPom for providing information that actually works and makes sense. It's nice to see a genuine opportunity that really will help you start your own business and earn good money working from home!Good luck allPhil ReddingPS - The website address for TheRichPom is www.TheRichPom.com, highly recommended. Phil Redding boasts over ten years' experience in investigating potential "work from home" opportunities on the Internet. He can often see through scams and fakes immediately and will have no hesitation in revealing the truth.

Category : General Awards

World Cup Schedule 2007 Tells Everything About The Tournament

2008-03-23T11:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Ella Wilson

World cup tournament has a special place and name in the field of cricket. No one can afford to miss this tournament as there is a lot of excitement and action seen in this tournament. In order to have a hand on each and every type of information of world cup 2007, cricket enthusiasts needs to have cricket worldcup schedule with them. The reason behind this issue is that world cup schedule 2007 tends to answer all the questions and queries of fans without any hassles. This information is of prime importance for fans, as they are able to make certain preparations before handed. After all, any of the ardent cricket fans would not like to bear that they might miss the important match of their favorite team. World cup schedule 2007 gives a lot of information to the fans, so that everyone can make adjustments in their working schedule for catching all the matches. With the help of world cup schedule 2007, you and other fans would be able to know the date of commencement of this tournament. You must be aware of this fact that without knowing about the start date of the tournament, you will not be able to make plans for this big event. As this tournament comes after every four years, every one will have some or the other interests regarding it and would like to make preparations accordingly. Along with the start date of this world cup tournament, there are a lot many things that can be known through world cup schedule 2007. You can also have knowledge about the venues where the matches of world cup tournament takes place. It is always important to know about the venues because if you are planning to visit that place, you can make preparations for that well on time. What happens if you are not aware of the world cup venue in advance and gets to know it just at the nick of time. You would obviously be deprived off from supporting your favorite player. Details about the teams and players participating in the world cup tournament can also be checked out from world cup schedule 2007. This type of information will not just inform you about the number of teams participating, but also about the players that are included in the team. Like this, you will be able to know that is your favorite player included in the team or not. Sometimes, it may happen that if your favorite player is not included in the team, you may shrink from watching this biggest tournament. And if he is included, then you will be watching the matches with keen interest and check out that your favorite player is becoming a part of that teams win or not. World cup schedule 2007 can be checked out at various mediums that are available in the market. Cricket fans try to have access to those mediums that are easily available to them. Some of you may like to check out world cup schedule 2007 at internet. Well, this facility is best suited for working professionals who do not get time to catch the action live. Many others look for world cup schedule 2007 in mews papers, news channels or magazines. Well, the main aim of getting this information is to keep you updated on the details of world cup tournament. Ella Wilson is a cricket fanatic. She simply loves the game and tries to catch live action no matter where she is.At Stickiewicket she works on Online cricket score,live cricket score, cricket worldcup schedule 2007 and cricket records among other things.You can see her works at www.stickiewicket.com

Category : General Sports

The Wonderful Wildlife of Southern Spain

2008-03-23T08:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Ruth Polak

69, 70,71, 72. I am trying to count the Griffon Vulture's as they glide effortlessly on their 2m. wingspan over the top of the mountains opposite my home.Earlier I was checking the damage to our vegetable patch as the wild boar were here again last night and they seem to have taken a shine to my husband's carrots!I glance up as I hear the screech of a Booted Eagle letting his mate know she has nothing to fear from the carrion eating vultures as their constant circling takes them further and further down the valley searching no doubt for some unfortunate Ibex or goat who tried one leap too many.The wildlife here is phenomenal nd the variety of birds seems never ending. Last night we could hear the hooting of the European Eagle owl at the valley bottom and at the sametime were lulled back to sleep by the beautifu singing of a nightingale perched somewhere outside our bedroom window.After living here for over 14 years I am still amazed by the diversity of wildlife. I am still in awe at the glimpse of a yellow flash through the undergrowth as a Golden Oriele goes about it's business.I love to watch the comic Hoopoe hopping frantically about chasing insects and the sound that I can only describe as gunfire as the many varieties of woodpeckers seek out grubs. I am especially intrigued by the vast array of birds of prey soaring effortlesly over our home, many of which I still can't identify.The setting is one of wooded valleys and majestic mountains with large swathes of wild flowers in the spring and many varieties of fruits and nuts in the summer, autumn and winter.I find a net and remove an unwanted guest, ( a salamander) from the pool and then put on my bathers and have a dip.Where is this paradise I hear you ask? Well it might surprise you to know that at the weekends I travel 20 minutes with my husband and all his Karaoke equipment to the bustling bars of the Costa del Sol where he works.Yes, we live in Andalucia. the Real Spain. Less people, less traffic and over 70% of all European wildlife- a veritable paradise indeed. Article submitted by Ruth Polak who is the owner of www.costadlsol-vacationrentals.com. A Web site specializing in holiday villas and apartments on the Costa del Sol and in Rural Andalucia. You will also find lots of information on Spain, and Andalucia in particular.

Category : Wildlife

How Air Conditioners work?

2008-03-23T05:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Paul

Air Conditioners: In an Air Conditioner chemicals are used to cool the temperature of the room. The liquid chemicals are produced from a gas, which again converts to gas form. The chemical transfers the heat from the inside to the outside of the room.Mainly the Air Conditioner machine has three parts, a compressor, a condenser and an evaporator. The condenser and compressor are in the outside portion of the machine while the evaporator is located inside the room. In the processor the chemical, which is a low-pressured cooled gas, enters. The processor then squeezes that chemical. It makes the molecules of the chemical closer together. The closer molecules create high energy and heat. The chemical leaves the compressor as hot and high-pressure gas and enters the condenser. At the backside of the machine we can see a metal fin. It works as a radiator and helps to cool down the heat very quickly. When the chemical leaves the condenser, it become very cold. The liquid flows in the evaporator through a small hole. On the other end the chemical becomes colder and starts to evaporate to gas. As the liquid becomes gas it soaks heat from the surrounding area. The heat of the air is needed to separate molecules of the chemical, which were packed together in the processor. The evaporator also has metal fins to exchange cool temperature with surrounding air. The liquid again leaves the evaporator and begins the same process. A fan connected with the evaporator circulates the cool air into the room. Paul has been providing answers to lots of queries through his website on a wide variety of subjects ranging from satellite phones to acne. To learn more visit

http://www.askaquery.com/Answers/qn525.html

Category : General Industry: Electrical

Investing Pointers for Neophyte Investors

2008-03-23T02:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Tim Gorman
If you know next to nothing, how do you go about the business of investing? The first thing you need to know about investing is, how much do you really know? If itsâ™ not much, then you will need to read extensively to educate yourself.To become well-informed, you should read up on the basics. find out what a stock, a bond or a mutual fund is, and what the differences are between these three financial products and itâ™s variables. Read books on financing and investing.
Talk to savvy investors, watch video and live presentations. Once you understand the differences and the risks entailed investing in each particular vehicle, then you can move forward with confidence.Now you can go to the second phase of learning about investing. Gain some experience, by investing in small stocks, and learn both from your mistakes and successes. However, find out first what kind of investor you are. Here are some pointers to help you get to the answers.In going about your business of investing, have a game plan and set definite goals. The answers to these questions will be valuable guideposts for you in your venture into investing your funds.â¢ What is your timetable for investing?â¢ What sectors of industries are you interested in investing in?â¢ What is the amount of funds you can safely use in investing in order to reach your goals?â¢ Have you considered your short term financial needs or goals?â¢ Do you plan to live off these investments in your retirement years?Determine your investing style. Are you a risk taker? Or do you like steady gains? Consider this thought, will you be able to sleep soundly at night, knowing your investment is decreasing and will take a long period of time before it increases? Or you prefer to hand your funds over to a funds manager? Do you like minimal risks in investing your funds? Consider the kind of risk taker you are, for this will help you pick the financial vehicles for investing in.What is the length of time you want to spend on investing in stocks? Is it just 15 minutes daily? Or do you find consider it the height of entertainment to spend 7 to 14 hours a week, looking over financial statements and debating the merits of these stocks.Carefully consider the answers to these questions. If you know what kind of investor you are, you can play to your strengths, and minimize the risks on the funds you are investing with.Timothy Gorman is a successful Webmaster and publisher of Debt-Relief-Solutions.com. He provides more debt relief, consolidation and financial planning advice that you can research in your pajamas on his website.
Category : Games

Making The Best Area Rug Choice

2008-03-23T01:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Jim Johnson

With such a dizzying array of choices in area rugs, which will
be best for you and your home?

Well, there are a few major factors to consider when selecting
the area rug for any particular room and first and foremost
should be the general theme of the room's decor. In other words,
why would you put an oriental rug in a room that has
southwestern furnishings? Even if the rug is a real beauty, it
often can just simply look out of place and even detract from
the appaearance of the room.

Of course, oriental and persian rugs are flexible and can be
used successfully in many types of decor, but certain styles
just clash and should not be attempted unless you really know
what you are doing.

Contemporary rugs are a great choice with most modern room
furnishings and they also come in a wide selection of patterns,
colors and designs. You can find practically any color
combination that you need in this one area rug category.

For western and southwestern decor, Navajo and southwestern
style rugs are a great choice and usually enhance the overall
theme of the room considerably.

Round and braided rugs are great selections for Early American
themed rooms or rooms that are well-decorated with antiques
evoking a feel for an older time. This design just fits in well
and adds to the warm, comfortable atmosphere of it's
surroundings.

Once the thme of the room is matched, make sure that the colors
you choose will accent and not clash with the furnishings, the
wall colors, wallpaper, and flooring. It's OK to use a splash of
color to liven up the room, but be careful not to go overboard
in this area as a little bright color goes a long way. And if
the area rug will be placed in a high traffic setting, it may be
beneficial to select a rug with darker shades anyway so it won't
show dirt and wear as easily.

And, of course don't forget the cost. Handmade area rugs will
most often cost quite a bit more than their machine made
counterparts. Again, the decor of the room will often determine
whether or not there is a need for such an expensive rug or not,
but happily, many machine made rugs these days are not only very
attractive in appearance but also wear well and hold up to years
of use.

So then, taking a little time to determine your needs in advance
can help you make a wise area rug selection.

-------------------------------------------------------------

Jim Johnson writes on many consumer related topics. You can find
out more about area
rug round by visiting our area rugs website.

Category : Stress Management

The 8 Things You Must Know To Build A Great Website

2008-03-23T00:00:00.001-07:00

Author : tim knox

Last week we talked about how a bad website can do your business more harm than good. That column brought several emails asking what is the key to building an effective business website. I replied with the same answer I always give: building an effective business website is a simple matter of definition.Before the first graphic is drawn or the first line of code is written, you must define the website's budget, purpose, target audience, design, navigation, and content. And when that's all said and done you must define the marketing that will bring visitors to your site.It sounds easy, but you'd be amazed at how many really bad business websites there are out there. Yours might even be one of them. If so, listen up. For nearly ten years now my company has been building and rebuilding websites for every kind of business you can imagine: from mom-and-pops to multinationals. We've designed (or redesigned) a couple hundred websites and along the way I have come to the conclusion that most business websites do a pitiful job of working for their owners.What's that, you didn't know your business website should work you? You think it should just sit on a server somewhere taking up digital space and collecting digital dust?Wrong. Every website, business or otherwise, must serve a purpose, and that's usually where most websites falls short. They serve no purpose because the website owner never gave much thought to it. It's not the website's fault. A website is inanimate. It is only what you make it. The only life a website has is the one given to it by its designer and owner. If the human element doesn't do a good job of defining the building blocks, the website will serve no purpose and eventually die a digital death.Building an effective business website isn't brain surgery, thank goodness, since that's how I make a nice percentage of my living. Building an effective, well-designed website that works for its owner, that actually serves a purpose, is all about definition.Define the BudgetEvery website, no matter how large or small, must have a realistic budget, with "realistic" being the key word. I can't tell you how many times I've sat with a potential client as they listed off the eight million cool things they wanted their website to do, only to find out that their budget was just a few hundred dollars. I always feel like saying, "Well you just wasted three hundred dollars of my time, so here's your bill?"Define the PurposeEvery website must have a purpose. Purpose drives everything: the audience, the design, the navigation, the content, and the marketing. I could do an entire column on purpose, but suffice it to say that there are five categories of purpose under which most websites fall: the purpose to inform, to educate, to entertain, to generate leads, to sell, or a combination thereof. If you fail to define the purpose of the website, all else is just wasted effort.Define the Target AudienceYour target audience refers to that segment of the public that you hope to attract to the site. For example if you sell shoes, your target audience would be anyone with feet. Taking it a step further, if you only sold women's shoes, your target audience would be women (with feet) Why is defining your target audience so important? If you have no idea who your audience is, how can you expect to design a website that will appeal to them? Your target audience could be customers, investors, job seekers, info seekers, etc. Define your target audience, then figure out how to serve them.Define the DesignWebsite design theory has changed over the last couple of years, primarily because the search engines now ignore graphic heavy websites and give preference to those that take a minimalistic approach to design. If you look at some of the big boy websites like GE, Oracle, Raytheon, HP, and others you will see that in many cases the only graphic on the homepage is the company's logo. Search engines now give higher preference to websites that offer keyword-rich text over flashy graphics. Don't fight the design trend. You will lose.Define the NavigationBad navigation is the number one reason website visitors abandon a website. Navigation refers to the chain of links the visitor uses to get around your site. If your site has an illogical navigational hierarchy or too few or too many links or is simply impossible to get around, you've got problems. We live in a microwave society. We stand in front of the microwave tapping our foot and glaring at our watch wondering why it takes so damn long for a bag of popcorn to pop. Why can't a three-minute egg be done in thirty seconds? If it takes a visitor more than 3 clicks to get to any page on your site, your navigation needs improvement.Define the ContentContent refers to the information on your website, be it graphics, text, downloadable items, etc. Since the top search engines no longer use HTML Meta tag data to index websites, it is vital that your website content be text heavy, succinct and well-written to appeal to the search engine spiders.Define the Build MethodNext, who will build the website for you? Will you do it yourself using one of the point and click website builders or will you hire the kid next door? Will you hire a freelance designer or a professional firm? Budget usually dictates the build method, but be warned, when it comes to website development, you get what you pay for. Sure, the kid next door will throw up a site for you if you buy them a pizza or make your daughter go to the prom with them, but you will end up a with a website that looks like and performs like it was designed by the kid next door.Define the MarketingIf you build it, will they come? Not on your life, at least not without a good marketing campaign. Your website should become a part of all your marketing efforts, online and off.Put the website address on your business cards, brochures, letterhead, and all collaterals. Include the address in your ads; print, TV and radio. If you prefer to do online marketing, figure out where your target audience surfs and advertise there.If marketing is foreign to you, do yourself a favor and call in an expert. Many businesses fail because they simply do not know how to market their products and services effectively. This is also the downfall of most business websites.Here's to your success. Tim KnoxEntrepreneur, Author, SpeakerTim Knox is a nationally-known small business expert who writes and speaksfrequently on the topic.For more information or to contact Tim please visit one of his sites below.http://www.dropshipwholesale.nethttp://www.smallbusinessqa.comhttp://www.timknox.com

Category : Hosting

Using online resources to learn how to oil paint

2008-03-22T21:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Dakota Caudilla

Lets admit it, its not going to be a walk in the park learning the right oil painting techniques online. But if you dont have a lot of time and maybe you dont have the kind of financial resources to learn oil painting techniques by attending classes right now, you can always try to find online resources that will help you adopt the right oil painting techniques.

Nothing can take the place of one-on-one guidance but with in-depth information, useful tools and your own willingness to learn, youll master the art of oil painting just as quickly as a person who attends oil painting classes for three years. You dont need a certificate to prove that you can paint in oil as well as others, your own portfolio and samples is proof enough. Thats the amazing thing about art. Your talent speaks for itself and you dont really need a college or academic body to affirm it for you. Most artistic geniuses of previous generations didnt get the kind of guidance or lessons that some of our artists get today and look at the number of outstanding artists we have in those times compared to now.

When youre relying on online resources to help you learn the right oil painting techniques, the most important thing is for you to absorb whatever is being said, research words and terms that you do not understand through communities and message boards, and then apply the stuff that you have learnt from those lessons consistently.

So, the steps to learning oil painting through online resources are:-
Absorb: read and take in whatever that theyre trying to tell you. You dont have a lecturer or a teacher to stand over you and correct your mistakes. Thats why your reference to the online resource should be meticulous.

Research: One of the biggest challenges to learning oil painting online is that sometimes youre left in a lurch because no one teaches you all those technical terms that theyre spurting out and youre lost. Either research the word through www.wikipedia.com, www.dictionary.com, or go to online communities and post your questions there. Dont be ashamed or shy to ask. The biggest mistake you can make is to hold back and pretend that you know.

Application: Application is the biggest and most important part of learning oil painting through online resources. Keep in mind the things that you have learnt, print it out and file it nicely so that you can be reminded of it later on.

Feedback: This is also called humbling time. Whenever youve learnt something new, copy it into digital format by either scanning it or taking a picture of it, go to an online forum and get feedback from people like you or from professionals. Dont take their feedback or comments personally, instead, take it professionally in your stride. Their comments and feedback will only serve to make your work better the next time round.

About the author:

Dakota Caudilla, journalist, and website builder Dakota Caudilla lives in Texas. He is the owner and co-editor of http://www.all-arts-and-crafts.comon which you will find a longer, more detailed version of this article.

Category : Entertainment

Precision Performance from Toyota Land Cruiser Part

2008-03-22T20:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Karen Wilson

The Toyota Land Cruiser is a series of top notch four-wheel drive sports utility vehicles that Toyota Motor Corporation has produced. It has been proven to be a real road machine with its inherent cunning abilities that can endure even the most grueling terrains and extreme climates. For half a century, countless Land Cruisers have traversed discriminating paths and until now nothing beats their versatility and it has indeed made its name as one of the finest creations of Toyota. But what makes its real success is from its agile and highly reliable Toyota Land Cruiser part that provides every inch of power and performance for the Land Cruiser. For more than 50 years of continuous evolution, the Land Cruiser has undergone rigorous and meticulous developments and refinements, making it a benchmark Sports Utility Vehicle. Through its well crafted and precision auto parts, it has lead its class in off-road adventures, engine power, automotive technologies, comfort features, and total safety not just for the occupants but also for the vehicle.When it comes to road performance, the iconic Toyota Land Cruiser is satisfactorily a speed merchant. Its engine can haul it smartly, making it a motorway cruiser. Its ride and handling are the best as it can wallow through corners and pitches smoothly even over big bumps. This is derived from its stiff and dependable Toyota Land Cruiser parts that provides for its seamless operations even under the roughest conditions. These auto parts such as the steering and suspension parts are created to make the vehicle more flexible and adaptive to road irregularities as well as providing better steering responses. It also allows the vehicle to climb up and drive through obstacles without any hassles. That is why Land Cruiser is dubbed as a generic term for an off-road vehicle. To keep the Land Cruiser always in trend with todays latest auto innovations, all its parts have undergone certain enhancements and upgrades that will further bring this SUV to greater heights. New technologies are also featured such as the optional hill-start and hill-descent control systems that greatly improves the vehicles overall efficiency.The Toyota Land Cruisers reputation as a superior SUV is credited from its Toyota Land Cruiser part. This is built with high quality and durability. Safety equipments are also created to help you drive confidently and keep the vehicle always protected, straight, and narrow. This includes air bags, braking assistance, and electronic stability control system. This ensures that you and your vehicle are kept protected and away from possible road-related dangers. In terms of interior comfort and ride quality, all interior auto equipments are stylishly crafted while still providing their proper functionalities. These are made from quality materials to guarantee the feeling of solidity and comfort when you are inside your Land Cruiser. Other auto parts includes tough alloy wheels, air-condition system, cruise controls, high discharge lighting system, remote central locking, adjustable seats, and all others. It is a fact that as a vehicle age, its auto parts also wears out and decline in the vehicles performance will be prevalent. With your Land Cruiser, some of its auto part may begin to fail after years of use and in order to restore its like-new performance, replacing worn out parts are a must.

Category : General Automotive: Repair & Service

More heads are better that one

2008-03-22T19:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Dijana Dimitrovska

No matter how you are looking at things, if another person looks - he will see them differently. So, to be sure you are doing the right things on the right way, you should not only think systematically yourself, but also provide channels to get feedback and other opinions."The manager of one car-service company phoned all his daily customers after the working time to make sure they were satisfied with the service and to ask them if they could have done something better." This is a very good example of how one company can be closer to its customers; but on the other side - it is very time-consuming and rather expensive. There is a proverb that we can use for better solution: "If Mohammed can't come to the mountain, the mountain will come to Mohammed." In order to gain as much feedback and opinions from your customers, you have to be sure that they can provide it easily the moment they decide. You have probably made a nice-looking website to provide information, promote something, get the message out there or sell something. It is now time to think of some other usage for it - gaining feedback! Here are some ways to do that using live-support software: ? Be sure to place a contact point on each of your web pages. It can include the "chat" button, the "leave a message" button or even a visible link to "contact us" - where you have all the other contact points written; ? Provide visitors with incentives to give you their feedback. For example: We appreciate any of your comments and opinions and are glad to offer prizes for 10 of our visitors each month which gave us their feedback. ? Place imbedded links in your website text to receive feedback on certain important issues. For example: We developed a new product line according to your requirements. We will be glad to chat with you to hear your opinion or new ideas; ? Place the "chat" button on the e-mails you send. That way your customers can immediately reply to your message and you get the chance to ask additional questions you are interested in; ? Make paper feedback cards which you can give together with your products or services and write on them your website address where they can interact with you and tell you their satisfaction, their ideas for improvement or simply chat with you on any issue. 56% of consumers feel respected when marketers attempt to understand their interests. So, make sure that as many people from outside the business can comment regularly on what you are doing well or badly and that way make them feel respected. Dijana Dimitrovska is Marketing Strategist at iTechnologies Corporation. If you want to improve your customer service for your website visitors, visit

www.activereception.com

and find out more about this on-demand live chat support software.

Category : General ECommerce

Countdown to Success : Twelve Things to do Twelve Months in Advance

2008-03-22T18:00:00.001-07:00

Author : Susan Friedmann
When a showâ™s a year away, it may seem like you have lots of time to get ready. But appearances can be deceiving. Twelve months is not long, especially with all the pre-show planning, training, and preparation youâ™ve got to do. Here is a checklist of sixteen vital items that need to be done approximately one year before you set up your exhibit:1. Identify Where The Show Fits In Your Marketing StrategyEvery show has a purpose. Do you want to introduce a new product to a new market? Increase existing services in an existing market? Increase your visibility in a new geographical region? Reinforce existing customer relationships? Knowing what you want to achieve at any given show is vital to your success.2. Decide Which Products To Focus OnYour company may produce dozens, even hundreds of different products. Obviously, you canâ™t showcase all these items at a trade show. Attendees would be overwhelmed. Instead, with one eye on your marketing strategy, select those products that need to take center stage. Remember that 70% of people attending shows are looking for something NEW!3. Identify Your Target AudienceIdeally, every show would be attended solely by consumers desperate to buy your products and services. However, things donâ™t always work that way. Determine who the decision makers are in your industry, and exhibit at the shows they attend. You want to spend your time talking with the people who have the power to make purchasing decisions.4. Identify Your Exhibit ObjectivesClearly explain to your booth staff what goals you expect them to meet during the show. Make these goals quantifiable. Examples could be number of leads generated, target sales figures, gathering marketing intelligence or educating your target audience.5. Write an Exhibiting PlanWriting out an exhibiting plan not only clearly deliniates what needs to be done before, during and after the show, what your exhibit team need to do, and a timetable. Include every step of the show in the written plan, leaving nothing out. Re-reading this plan will allow you to identify any items youâ™ve overlooked.6. Establish an Exhibiting BudgetAn exhibiting budget should include every item needed for show participation. Beyond registration and space rental fees, include charges for show services and transportation. Add in the cost of your exhibit design, signage, graphic, and display materials as well as advertising, promotion and special activities. And, finally, donâ™t forget your exhibit teamâ™s travel, accommodation and meal expenses.7. Reserve Your Booth SpacePrime real estate go fast! To get the booth space you want, remember to reserve early. Avoid â˜discountedâ™ spaces in out of the way aisles or near the bathroom. The savings realized wonâ™t balance out all the attendees who never get near your booth â" or worse, who go by in a big hurry with other things on their mind!8. Pay DepositsCheck in with the accounting department to make sure deposits are paid on time. This often-overlooked item can cause all kinds of headaches, not to mention high late-payment charges.9. Ensure Booth Design Meets ObjectivesThere are no one-size-fits-all displays. Make sure your design meshes with your marketing plan, helping to support current objectives while maintaining your corporate image. Booth layout is vital. Make sure it contains all the needed elements, including a â˜quietâ™ place to talk with hot prospects.10. Assess Your Current ExhibitGive your current exhibit a critical once-over. Does it still look sharp and engaging, or is it tired, faded, and worn? Signage and graphics sometimes travel around the globe several times in a year â" and they donâ™t always look better for it. Check flooring material for wear and tear as well as your other displays.11. Purchase New Items as NeededOrder new graphics and signage as far in advance as possible. This way, if there are any mistakes, youâ™ll have time to make necessary corrections. Additionally, allowing yourself extra time gives you the room to negotiate for the best deals. As you replace worn items, make sure the old ones are disposed off â" you wouldnâ™t want your booth staff setting up last yearâ™s signage by mistake.12. Order Show ServicesShow services should be ordered in advance. These can include electricity, signage, audio/visual equipment, booth cleaning services, plants and flowers, telephone and computer hookups, waste removal, and furniture. Youâ™ll be sure to get everything you need, and enjoy a substantial savings over those who wait for the last minute to order these items.Written by Susan A. Friedmann,CSP, The Tradeshow Coach, Lake Placid, NY, author: âœMeeting & Event Planning for Dummies,â working with companies to improve their meeting and event success through coaching, consulting and training. For a free copy of âœ10 Common Mistakes Exhibitors Makeâ, e-mail: article4@thetradeshowcoach.com; website: http://www.thetradeshowcoach.com
Category : Personal Finance

Bracelet Bead Pattern - Pearls and Sea Foam Seed Beads

2008-03-22T17:05:00.001-07:00

Author : Jennifer Thoden
This 3 strand beaded bracelet is elegant with it's cool, translucent sea foam strands... and dangles of glass pearls... sparkling with silver beads and spacers. Wear this bracelet with an elegant white blouse or dress up your casual t-shirts... or wear it with a green sweater to pull out the green. Beautiful!Skills required:Crimping
Stringing Beads
Wire WorkingBeading Supplies

Crimping pliers
Needlenose pliers
Flat nose pliers
(24") .014mm Stringing Wire
(14) Silver Plated 2" Head Pins
(6) 2mm Crimp Tubes Sterling Silver
(6) Crimp Covers Silver
(1) 24mm 3 Strand Hook and Eye Clasp Sterling Silver
(257) Size 11 Seed Beads Transparent -Sea Foam
(20) 6mm Glass Pearl White
(26) 4mm Spacer Bead Antique Silver Plated
(12) 3mm Silver Bead Sterling Silver
(7) 4mm Jump Rings Silver Creating the danglesStep 1. String onto a head pin, 1 pearl, 1 spacer bead.Step 2. Form a wrapped loop close to the spacer bead. Trim off excess wire.Step 3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 for a total of 14 pearl dangles.Step 4. Hook 2 pearl dangles together with a jump ring... create 7 sets.Vist http://www.beadpatternsonline.com to read the rest of this article with detailed photos and diagrams.Happy Beading!Jennifer ThodenDiscover free bead patterns, beading instructions and an online bead store directory. Visit http://www.beadpatternsonline.com to enjoy free designer bead patterns, detailed step by step bead instructions, dozens of beading related articles and a growing online bead store directory to help you find the beading supplies you need.http://www.beadpatternsonline.com
Category : Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies

West Indies Cricket World Cup 2007 Is The Event To Be Seen

2008-03-22T17:03:00.001-07:00

Author : Ella Wilson

Now, the fever of world cup is on the soaring heights. As West Indies cricket world cup 2007 has started, cricket fans have glued themselves to the medium that allow them to have access to scores, news and other related information of the biggest event. As everyone knows that world cup comes after four consecutive years and this increases the curiosity of fan. History of cricket tells that till now eight world cup tournaments have been played and this is the ninth one that West Indies is hosting. West Indies cricket world cup 2007 seems to be really high on the popularity charts because West Indies have been extravagant in organizing the event and welcome of 16 playing nations. West Indies cricket world cup 2007 has started seeing some of the classy show of performances. In their first match with Pakistan, West Indies have proved that they are really worth of being the tough contenders for world cup championship. After all, West Indies cricket world cup 2007 vehemence is creating an atmosphere of heat in the entire world. All the countries have been doing something or the other for their players, to boost their morale. West Indies are hosting this world cup tournament for the first time ever and this makes it important for them to show remarkable performance. They have to keep up the reputation of their nation and try to win the trophy. It is because of the West Indies cricket world cup 2007; West Indies have also been promoting their tourism destinations. The reason for this is that they plan to earn more and more rewards through this promotion. It is the Caribbean Islands of West Indies that will be a proof of one of the most memorable shots and performances of playing nations. All the teams would be trying hard to become a strong contender for the trophy. Kingston, Basseterre, Gros Islet, Port of Spain and St. Johns are some of the venues that will see number of classic shots, along with caught and bowled moments. All the players will also be getting enough time for site seeing and enjoying in the Caribbean Islands. What is more important in West Indies cricket world cup 2007 is the information related to this event. There are lots of aspects that have to be seen for looking forward to this tournament. First of all, all the cricket fans would be looking out for West Indies cricket world cup 2007 schedule, so that they are able to know the exact dates of every match. This will also help them to make certain arrangements well in advance to catch up with the match of their favorite team. Another thing to be checked out is news related to this event. West Indies cricket world cup 2007 news will inform the cricket enthusiasts about the latest happenings in the match and some of the controversial issues that might have cropped up during the match. Since the West Indies cricket world cup 2007 has started, every other cricket enthusiast would be trying to have access to the source that is available to them. Some of you may stick themselves to television sets, some of you might be looking at the sports page of newspaper and many of the working professionals would be taking the assistance of cricket websites that are providing information on this tournament. Though world cup has started; still, there is long way to go in this direction and we all have to wait eagerly for the finals to come. Ella Wilson is a cricket fanatic. She simply loves the game and tries to catch live action no matter where she is.At Stickiewicket she works on Online cricket score,West Indies cricket world cup 2007, Fantasy cricket and Cricket News among other things.You can see her works atwww.stickiewicket.com

Category : General Sports: Outdoors

Is it Time to Have Your Estate Plan Reviewed?

2008-03-09T01:00:00.001-08:00

Author : Phil Craig
As a newsletter writer, I get bombarded with
questions.I feel sorry for many of the folks who write, since
they have gotten themselves into some pretty serious
legal problems.I can't (and don't) respond to specific questions,
but sometimes like to change the questions around a
little (to protect the person asking) and give my
comments so everyone can learn.Listen to this poor widow (not only has she just
lost her husband, but now she is in the middle
of a legal mess):Dear Mr. Craig,I have had an AB Living Trust since 1992. My
husband recently passed away.I am confused as what to do about our living trust.Some items, mentioned in the trust (real estate)
were never deeded to trust (still in joint tenancy).At the time of my husband's death, some investment
items were (are) still in my husband's name, with
no beneficiary, especially items from our late
daughter's estate (deceased 2002) including
one-half share in my late daughter's house (there
was a probate distribution which gave equal shares
to my husband and myself). This was never changed
to our living trust or to joint tenancy.My husband's half share of our house is worth over
$100,000. Evidently this will have to go through
probate. Without the house, my husband's assets
are less than $100,000. I have had "offer" by a
lawyer to clear up the living trust for about
$3,000, plus an attempt at an "Estate of Heggsted"
petition to avoid Probate (another $3000 or so).I didn't realize a Living Trust could be so
complicated or expensive.I thought a "Pour-Over Will" would put items not
listed into the trust.Plus, I didn't realize what an AB Living Trust
meant and that it had to be divided between the
survivor and the deceased spouse and that I am
limited as to what I can use from his share.I'm learning the hard way. Sorry this seems so
confusing.My first impression? When did they last go over their
estate plan with their lawyer?Here they violated one of the main rules in estate
planning: whenever there is a major change in your
life situation (a life changing event such as the
death of a close family member) you should (probably
must) review your estate plan to see what changes
are required.If you don't, you could be faced with the same
problems faced by this poor widow.Good luck and until next time,Phil CraigP.S. Feel free to forward this on to any friends.Phil Craig is a licensed attorney and entreprenuer.
He started practicing law at age 25 in 1979.
He does not take on any more clients, but is
advisor to some of the biggest names in the internet
world. He shares his knowledge gained over the
last 25 years at his Living Trust Secrets newsletter site:
click here=========>http://www.LivingTrustSecrets.com** Attn Ezine editors / Site owners **
Feel free to reprint this article in its entirety
in your ezine or on your site so long as you leave
all links in place, do not modify the content and
include our resource box as listed above.If you do use the material please send us a note
so we can take a look. Thanks.
Keyword : revocable living trust, estate plans, estate planning, trustees, trust,. trusts, wills, probate

Cases Involving Defective Products

2008-03-09T00:31:00.001-08:00

Author : Blur Loterina
Each year, millions of people are being harmed by defective products. A defective product is a product that causes injury or harm to a person. A product may be considered to be defective for many different reasons such as design defect, failure to warn, failure to guard, unfit for intended use, defect in construction, or a defect in materials. With this, defective product claims can be based on negligence, strict liability, or breach of warranty of fitness depending on the jurisdiction within which the claim is based.No matter how big or small, you must file your defective products claim and see what your legal rights are. Basically, liability and damages are two important elements in every defective products law case. A liability involves demonstrating that the person being charged did bear responsibility for the injury. The damages, however, refer to the extent or amount of injury or loss that was suffered on account of the defendant's actions or negligence.Know what, defective product cases require extensive resources and experience. Expert witnesses can cost tens of thousands of dollars just for an initial evaluation. Not every lawyer has the resources or connections to utilize the top experts. In addition, product liability cases require originality, creativeness, fortitude and the resources to cover the high expenses involved. Representing injured parties is often expensive for attorneys because they put up large sums of money on these complex cases in order to hire experts, take depositions, gather evidence, and oppose the lawyers of large companies and insurance firms.Upon winning the case, you are entitled to compensatory damages such as your medical bills incurred as a result of the product defect, reimbursement for any time lost from work, and property damaged as a result of the defective product. You are also entitled to damages for pain and suffering you experienced as a result of your injury. If you are married and the injury has affected the relationship with your spouse, you may be entitled to loss of consortium damages. Your spouse may also be able to recover these damages, even if he or she was not directly injured by the product.Indeed, to avail the service of a competent counsel is the best way to protect your interests if you have been injured by a defective product. So, if you or your loved ones have been injured because of what you believe is a product defect, you should consult a defective product lawyer at the earliest opportunity to protect you right of recovery. Through an attorney, you're assured that a thorough search will be performed to locate and then sue all the proper parties if a lawsuit seems justified.Simply speaking, in every defective product claim, if it wasn't your fault then someone must be held responsible, and if you've been injured then you may be able to recover compensation.For additional legal information and inquiries about the article log on to http://www.attorneyservicesetc.com
Keyword : article submission, articles, writers, writing, publishing, ezine, email marketing, email newsletter, email

Protect Your Job & Wages

2008-03-09T00:00:00.001-08:00

Author : Susan Chana Lask
When people call me about employment issues they don't realize one important law- in almost every state you are terminable at will. That means that your employer can fire you anytime and for no reason at all. The only way you are protected from being fired on the spot without notice is if you have a contract of employment. A contract of employment must be in writing and should specify your length of employment, salary, terms of employment, vacation, bonus calculations, the basis of termination and any warnings to be given (make it at least 3 warnings if you can) prior to termination and must be signed by your employer, among other things.Now, most people never get employment contracts because their employers do not want to lose the right to terminate you with or without cause. But there is a saving grace--if your employer wrote an intial offer of employment letter and you commenced employment based on that letter, you can use the terms in that letter as your contract of employment. Hopefully the letter spells out your salary and length of employment because there are cases where if your fired before the end of the term in that letter than you can be due the balance of your salary for that term.So, if your salary was $40,000 for the year and the offer of employment letter states your term is 1 year then if your fired in the first 2 months, your due the balance of 10 months salary. And if your employer has an Employee Handbook with rules and regulations therein (usually terms of termination, warnings, vacation pay) then that Handbook is also a binding "contract" of employment. Read the terms of your Handbook because it may spell out how and when you can be terminated which may or may not be good for you depending on whether or not it limits the employer's liability for terminating you.On the other hand, if the Handbook has terms regarding certain pre-warning procedures before terminating you an dthose procedures were not followed , then you can enforce those procedures as terms of your contract. If your employer breached those terms he most likely must re-instate your employment and follow those procedures before terminating you.The most important part of your employment is getting paid, so if your employer fires you and refuses to pay you what you understand to be due you, then use your Offer Letter and the Employee Handbook as your "contract" of employment. The employer must follow any terms in those documents. There are also labor laws in each state that require payment for overtime, limited hours of work for certain jobs and notice of your termination date and your health insurance termination dates and proper notice is required as to how to extend your health benefits ("COBRA"). Also, law specify that an employer must pay you at least every two weeks, so if your fired and the employer doesn't send your last check to you on time an dholds it back-he violated labor laws and can be held liable to you for extra money you pay to recover your wages.For instance, in New York the Labor Law mandates proper notice of employee termination and benefits termination. An employer failing to follow the Labor Laws is penalized under Labor Law 198, in addition to ordinary costs lost by the employee he must pay a reasonable sum for expenses which may be taxed as costs are allowed by the court.Furthermore, in any action instituted upon a wage claim by an employee which the employee prevails, the court is required to allow such employee reasonable attorneys' fees, Labor Law 198(1-a), and upon finding that the employer's failure to pay the wage specified by statute was willful, an additional amount as liquidated damages equal to twenty-five percent of the total amount of wages due is also paid to the employee. Labor Law 198(1-a). Case law holds an award of liquidated damages to employees proper where the employer knowingly, deliberately and voluntarily disregarded its obligation under the Labor Law to pay the employees' commissions, which would be deemed "willful" failure to pay wages. P & L Group, Inc. v Garfinkel (1989, 2d Dept) 150 AD2d 663, 541 NYS2d 535.So, don't despair if your employer gives you a hard time when your fired--there are laws requiring him to pay your wages and your Employee Handbook and Offer of Employment Letter also can be used as valid contracts to support your position for wages.This article is certainly not all inclusive and is intended only as a brief explanation of the legal issue presented. Not all cases are alike and it is strongly recommended that you consult an attorney if you have any questions with respect to any legal matters.Any questions and/or comments with respect to this topic or any other topic, contact:Law Offices of Susan Chana Lask
853 Broadway, Suite 1516
New York, NY 10003
(212) 358-5762
Susan Chana Lask, Esq. c 2004About The AuthorSusan Chana Lask is named in the media as New York's high-powered attorney. She succesfully handles all civil & crimnal cases in State & Fedral Courts nationwide. Visit http://www.appellate-brief.comscl@appellate-brief.com
Keyword : unions,jobs,wages,employment laws,labor laws,labor

Land Grab Law LRAU in Spain

2008-03-08T23:31:00.001-08:00

Author : Karen Milacic
Much has been written in the press about the Land Grab Law or L.R.A.U - Ley
Reguladora de la Actividad Urbanística, where people have fallen foul of the greed of
developers who have abused this, well meaning regulation brought in by the
Valencian government to provide low cost social housing and infrastructure
improvements. Although introduced in 1994, it is only in the recent few years that
unscrupulous developers have taken advantage of the complex wording of the
L.R.A.U. and distorted its meaning to their own gains - to forcibly obtain land either
without compensation or at well below market value prices and then inflict hugely
inflated charges on innocent foreign country house owners for 'contributions to the
improvement of infrastructure'.Only applicable to the Valencian Community, the L.R.A.U. has been a thorn in the
side of many estate agencies trying to encourage investors to the area, as people
have been falsely led to believe that all properties can be affected by this law.
On the positive side, the risk of getting caught up in this law can be minimised in
many ways. Using a solicitor specialised in this area can safeguard your investment
and make the buying of a property in this region a safe investment. One must
always seek legal advice before buying any property, and a good solicitor will do the
appropriate searches and background work to ensure that your investment is safe.What can your solicitor do for you?Your solicitor will find out about the planning status and in particular, the
classification of the land you are planning on buying. Land is classified in three
types - urban, non-urban and developable.Urban - Buying a property on urban land can be more expensive, but it is totally
free from risks as all of the planning has already been done for the area and is
unlikely to change dramatically to effect your investment.Non-Urban Land - property situated on non-urban land is safer than developable
land as there cannot be any urbanisation or improvement plans. However, there is a
small risk that the land can be reclassified to developable at a later date, especially
if this non-urban land is near urban or developable areas. A solicitor can tell you
before buying a property if any future plans exist for the reclassification of the area.Developable Land - Property on developable land, which has not had infrastructure
installed is liable to attract costs at a later date. Your solicitor can help by getting a
planning certificate from the local town hall (ayuntamiento) assuring that there is no
development planned for the future and that they must notify you of any such
change or discovery of plans.Fortunately, after much canvassing, the European Courts has taken notice of this
loophole in the L.R.A.U. and are now taking steps to ensure that no one else is
victimised by these cowboys.If you would like more iinformation about this subject or others relating to the Costa
Blanca visit Costa Blanca World.Karen Milacic is a graphic and web designer living as a British expat on the Costa
Blanca for the past five years. Visit her other web sites at:
http://www.villa-angels.comhttp://www.thedesignbusiness.co.ukhttp://www.costablanca-webhosting.com
Keyword : costa blanca, lrau,land grab costa blanca,legal advice costa blanca,land purchase spain

Can I Get Workers Compensation for a Repetitive Work Place Injury in Virginia?

2008-03-08T23:00:00.001-08:00

Author : Jerry Lutkenhaus
It is common for a worker to work all day long and then not suffer any problem until the next day when he cannot get out of bed. This type of claim is generally not compensable under Virginia Workers Comp Law for an injured worker.First, if you lift 50 pound widgets all day long and feel no problem but wake up the next day with a back ache, you will not have a compensable claim under Virginia Law. The rationale is you cannot tie your back injury to a "specific incident."Second, on the other hand if you are lifting 50 pound widgets all day long and your back goes out while lifting the 99th widget, you may very well have a compensable claim. In this scenario, you can point to a "specific incident" that has caused your back injury. This is especially true if your doctor will agree the 99th wideget caused your back injury based on the history you gave to the doctor.Third, this is why insurance companies will take recorded statements as soon as possible after an accident in order to lock in place what the injured worker's version of the accident actually was.Fourth, the worker may be able to save the day if the worker can point to a twinge, pull, sharp pain, etc. that occurred while lifting one of the objects. Of course, the doctor will have to agree this particular event was the cause of the back injury.Fourth, Virginia has adopted two exceptions to this repetitive injury rule for carpal tunnel syndrome and hearing loss. If the worker can establish the carpal tunnel syndrome or hearing loss was caused by work and exclude other causes, then the worker may have a compensable claim. However, problems like tendonitis will still be denied.This may be considered AN ADVERTISEMENT or Advertising Material under the Rules of Professional Conduct governing lawyers in Virginia. This note is designed for general information only. The information presented at this site should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship.Gerald G. Lutkenhaus--has been doing workers compensation in Virginia for over 30 years. In the July 1999 issue of Richmond Magazine he was rated one of the Best Attorneys for Workers Compensation in Central Virginia. In 2003 he was giving the rating of AV by Martindale Hubbell.You can get more information from http://www.virginiadisabilitylawyer.com or
http://www.geraldlutkenhaus.com
Keyword : virginia work place injury lawyer, virginia work place injury attorney, virginia disability lawyer.

This Lemon Automobile Brain is Damaged - Surgery is Not an Option

2008-03-08T22:31:00.001-08:00

Author : Donald Ladew
Each year, cars, trucks and RVs get more complicated. In this new electronic world computers manage most of the various vehicle operations, such as the power package, transmission, brake systems, emission control system, entertainment systems and safety related systems.Although computers make it more difficult for an individual to work on his or her car, some of them actually make the car easier to service.In twenty years we have gone from a completely mechanical automobile – no electronics - to vehicles that have as many as forty or fifty computers. This sort of accelerated development has a price. There is no standardization in vehicle computers - software or hardware. None of it is common from manufacturer-to-manufacturer, or even model-to-model.This lack of standardization is bad for everyone. The mechanic is in trouble, because often he or she hasn't been trained to use the necessary diagnostic tools. The owner pays a heavy price because when a computer fails, finding the exact cause can be very difficult. Thus, the owner waits, often for weeks, even months for the dealership to figure out what is wrong.The dealership is caught between the demands of high warranty repair expense and needing to service the customer. And, finally, the manufacturer is under pressure to maintain the façade of manufacturing cars that do everything advertised.The manufacturer competes in a tough business environment, so they must offer new and sexy gadgets to the consumer. The customer asks for these things. If a manufacturer doesn't provide them, the competition will.The move toward more and more computerization in cars, trucks and RVs is driven by certain key elements:- The need for sophisticated engine controls to meet emissions and fuel-economy standards- Advanced troubleshooting diagnostics- Simplification of manufacture and design- Reduction of wiring (less wiring equals less weight, equals better gas mileage)- Manage sophisticated new safety features- Control comfort and convenience features- Compete in a tough business environmentA recent survey of Lemon legal cases indicated that a remarkably high percentage had major defects that were directly or indirectly related to one or more of the on-board computers. given the sophistication of the modern automobile, this should not surprise anyone, least of all the manufacturers.When something goes wrong with an automobile, manufacturers want to talk about bad components, not the part of the vehicle that tells the components how to operate; the on-board computer.Typically the manufacturer talks about emission control valves failing, not the Electronic Control Unit (a microprocessor, computer), and its subordinate system the Emission Controls Computer (a microprocessor, computer), which tells the emission control valve when and how to work.We call this slicing and dicing the defect. It is a form of watering down the defect, a sort of deception whose purpose is to disguise what is really defective, one or more of the vehicle computers.If all it took was replacement of the defective computer, no big deal; better than replacing the entire vehicle. But, what if there is a software design fault? Or what if there is basic computer hardware design fault within the computer itself? Now, the manufacturer could be looking at possible recalls. This can be a devastating expense to the manufacturer.Hardware or software design problems with an on-board computer are not infrequent. Therefore, from the manufacturer's viewpoint, it has to be something else; preferably something at which mechanics can throw parts regardless of whether the problem is corrected.Another bone in the throat of customers that prevents them getting excellent service is knowledge. That is correct, knowledge. For the average mechanic, the computer, microprocessor is a new and fearful thing. They know darn well if they fool around with anything that has a computer in it, they are going to screw up and get in big trouble.In an article on BMW Fuel Injection Fault Codes – these are the codes the engine control computer generates indicating what is wrong with a particular system – the master mechanic who wrote the article, described the task of retrieving and understanding the control codes as being very difficult: "It's a "1" on a scale of "1" to "10", "1" being most difficult," the master mechanic said.Still, the dealer has to get the work done. Inexperienced mechanics are put to work on problems they do not understand and that they really do not want to do. Who bears the brunt of their lack of training, aptitude and attitude? Right again, the long-suffering consumer. There is a nationwide shortage of trained mechanics, so severe that dealers and repair shops recruit from prisons in the Midwest. None of these conditions bode well for the consumer.Every Computer/Microprocessor in the modern automobile has multiple sensor inputs. Sensors measure things like engine temperature, RPM, vehicle speed. Sensors may be variable, which is to say they are collecting changing values, like vehicle speed, which the computer uses to make decisions; or they may be looking at the output of switches that are ON or OFF.The Engine Control Microprocessor may be connected to fifty or more of these computers and hundreds of sensors. Very few of these sensors, if defective, produce one isolatable fault. The failure of these sensors to operate properly at the proper time can create a multitude of hard to diagnose problems. Some of these problems present a serious safety hazard to the owner.It's not an easy thing when the brain of a vehicle, or a human is defective. Like a cancer it spreads out into other systems and affects them in unpredictable ways. It is callous and possibly worse for a dealership to remove and replace the emission control valve when your car begins to stall at stop signs and intersections, and then claim that everything is all right now. A week later the same thing occurs and it is some other component. It is analogous to a surgeon replacing your arm because the brain isn't sending it the right commands for proper operation.It's a tough situation, and manufacturers and dealerships do not improve it by denying such problems exist. One answer, of course, is more rigorous testing by the manufacturer. Mandatory programs to upgrade the skills of mechanics would also go a long way to improving the service, safety and vehicle ownership experience.Next time the dealership tells you the ABS –Automatic Brake System- is supposed to pulse like a dying carp on the beach, step back, give them the, "I see your hand in the cookie jar, look." Ask, "How do you know it's not the Big Brain? How do you know it isn't the Engine Control System Computer that's defective?"Donald Ladew, Staff Writer for Norman Taylor & Associates, is a professional writer and author of numerous articles on quality,customer service issues and many other subjects. This article approved by Norman F. Taylor Esq. For more information about this most important subject, please read Lemon Law - The Standard Reference Guide, Norman F. Taylor Esq. ISBN 0-9760058-0-8

http://www.lemonattorneys.com or http://www.normantaylor.com For further inquiries, Mr. Ladew may be reached at: donald@normantaylor.com Phone: 818-244-3905.
Keyword : lemon attorney, lemon law, lemon rv, lemon boats, lemon motor homes, Song Beverly Act

How to Find the Right Lawyer for Your Small Business

2008-03-08T22:00:00.001-08:00

Author : John Lee
As a small business owner, it's quite possible that you run into conflicts that might lead to lawsuits and you might need to find a lawyer to help you solve the problems. Finding the "right lawyer" could be very challenging or even intimidating, especially for people who has never working with an attorney before. However, by taking the right approach you might find the right lawyer who can best help you.Just like shopping for other products or services, the first step is to shop around. There are a number of resources where you can use to find a lawyer.First of all, you can look for recommendations from your business contacts, friends or family. If anybody you know was previously involved in a similar case, be sure to ask that person about the his/her experience and that person might even recommend a good lawyer to you.Your local bar association is another good resource for finding the right lawyer. Check your phone book or do a web search to find the contact information of your local bar association. They might maintain a lawyer referral lists searchable by specialty. Not only can your local bar association refer specialized attorneys, they can also provide you with information such as whether there is any ethical complaint or inquiry associated with a attorney.You can also get help from lawyer referral services. You can find a list of lawyer referral services in your yellow book under "Lawyers", "Attorneys" or "Attorney Referral Services", or you can search them on the Internet. These services usually charge you a fee but some services might allow you talk to a lawyer without any charge.In addition, you might come across advertisements from attorneys or law firms. Just like dealing with other type of advertisements, you should be careful and don't trust the advertisement too much.Beside the resources mentioned above, there are a number of other options to find a lawyer, such as looking at the phone book or doing web search, etc. Don't settle down with the first lawyer that you come across. Make sure to interview a few attorneys before you make your final decision.John Lee is a freelance writer who has written articles for websites such as Attorney Help (http://attorney.eguidepro.com).
Keyword : find lawyer, find attorney, find small business lawyer, how to find a lawyer

Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT): What It Is

2008-03-08T21:31:00.001-08:00

Author : P.M.George Kutty
Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) is a sister Treaty of the Paris Convention administered by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). The PCT facilitates filing of patent applications under a single umbrella and provides for simplified procedure for the search and examination of such applications. There are now over 125 signatory countries to PCT. The PCT system is a very popular method of filing patent applications throughout the world.Filing a PCT ApplicationThe PCT applications may be filed either in an approved Receiving Office or directly at the International Bureau at the WIPO in Geneva. The PCT applications usually claim priority from an ordinary patent application, but they may also be filed direct.On filing a PCT application, applicants must designate the countries in which they wish to retain the option to file a patent application. There is a fee per country designated up to the first 5 and after that any number of further countries may be designated without fee. It is also possible to designate multi-country regional offices such as the ARIPO or EP (European Patent Organisation).International Phase and National PhasePCT has two phases, an international phase when they are international applications in the International Bureau, and a national phase when they are converted to national patent applications in the designated countries of interest.During the international phase, the designated International Searching Authority (a Patent Office authorised by WIPO) conducts a patent search and an International Search Report is provided within around six months of filing to assist the applicant in deciding whether or not to proceed with patent protection. The International Bureau also publishes the patent specification.Chapters I and II of the PCTThe PCT is divided into two Chapters, Chapter I and Chapter II. Chapter I requires that within either 20 or 30 months of the earliest priority date, (depending on whether or not the country concerned has adopted the most recent amendments to the PCT Treaty), the applicant must enter the national phase, that is, file patent applications in any one or more of the countries initially designated .Chapter II allows 30 months from the earliest priority date for entering the national phase and also requires a designated International Preliminary Examining Authority (authorised by WIPO to conduct international examinations) to conduct a non-binding substantive examination of the patent specification to determine whether it meets the requirements for patentability. Please note that, certain designated Offices have fixed time limits expiring even later than 30 months, or 20 months, as the case may be. For regular updates on these applicable time limits, refer to the PCT Gazette; a cumulative table is also available at WIPO's Internet site (www.wipo.int ).Entry into the National PhaseThe national phase is the second of the two main phases of the PCT procedure. The national phase starts only if the applicant files applications in each country of choice (the "designated Office") just as a usual application would be filed, either before the expiration of the time limit or together with an express request that it start earlier. The applicant has sole responsibility for performing the act in due time. The consequences of failure to do so are fatal to the application in most designated States. In each such designated State the international application has the effect of a national (or regional in the case of regional offices) application as from the international filing date, and the decision to grantAdvantages of the PCT SystemThe PCT system allows applicants to file a single patent application in one country and for up to 30/31 months retain the option of filing a corresponding application in a large number of other countries of interest. The PCT system can therefore be thought of as an extension of time for filing patent applications world wide at substantially reduced prosecution costs. Furthermore, one can usually tell from the International Search Report and Written Opinion, what the chances are of obtaining patent protection in the other countries. If there appears to be no prospect of obtaining a patent, the international application can be abandoned whereby the applicants lose only the cost of filing a PCT application instead of a much greater cost of filing applications in every other countries of interest. Also, the applicants get 18 months more to test the market to determine whether to proceed with patent applications and indeed to raise capital to fund the filing of regional/national phase applications.PCT National Phase Entry in IndiaOn September 7, 1998 India (country code: IN) deposited its instruments of accession to the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property and to the Patent Cooperation Treaty. Since December 7, 1998, it has been possible to designate India in PCT applications and to elect India in the demand for preliminary examination.If India is a designated country in the PCT application and is also elected in the demand for preliminary examination filed within 19 months of the priority date, then the deadline for entry into the National Phase in India is 31 months from the Priority Date. If the applicant does not so elect India in the demand for preliminary examination, then the deadline for entry into the National Phase in India is 21 months from the Priority Date. Therefore, all applicants who have designated India in their PCT application filed on or after December 7, 1998, will be able to file PCT National Phase applications in India.P.M.George Kutty, Advocate & Registered Patent Attorney, India of http://www.pmgip.com
Keyword : patent india, pct filing, pct national entry india, patent law

Personal Injury - 12 NEW Methods!

2008-03-08T21:00:00.001-08:00

Author : Mohammad Latif
Advertisements just drive you crazy... one company says one thing and other one down the road saying another, but both effectively are trying to say the same thing. For an injured person, it gets confusing. Who to trust and turn to?In hospitals, there will be organised and 'posh' literature on display by solicitor firms who have an exclusive 'contract' display for injured people organised with the hospital.Fair enough, they have an exclusive stand, where over 80% of the injured people attend a hospital, which gives them a good exposure to marketing their services. It's plain simple advertising and other competitors can't do anything about it, even if they present a much better service.Well it's never all that simple. People want plain and simple English in black and white, without the hassle, costs and other risks. Being able to understand what services a firm offers without the technical jargon. Anyway I could write a book on such a topic to separate what a solicitor is really 'trying' to say.Personal injury has reached a new era, where the previous culture of large companies, not mentioning any names and many of the likes have finally sunk their luxury ships. If only they explained the technical jargon in black and white, they would have still been in business. Still would be getting enormous amount of personal injury claims. Their budget for advertising and marketing was phenomenal and they could have been around for centuries if they had actually helped people with their compensation, rather than their own pockets.Anyway, the industry is shocked by their performance and people are still in 2 minds for making a claim for personal injury. So let's clear it with the new era.So What Are The NEW Methods?• Free Service The company provides you with a free service to connect you with a 'specialist' in the UK. These are specialists in categories... A road traffic accident requires an RTA specialist and a trip, fall or slip requires a T/S specialist. They can't do the same thing.• Free Phone A free phone number is provided if you use the service offline. However 95% of injured like to use emails or an online assessment form to see if they are entitled.• Free AssessmentWhen you have an accident or are injured, you want to know if you have a claim for compensation or not. Many people are confused or unsure about claiming for compensation and it prevents a lot of people from ever making a claim. Get a free assessment!Whether it be a road traffic accident, accident at work, sports, trip or fall, medical negligence or even criminal injury, you need to know at least if you have a claim for compensation. Therefore if you are eligible for compensation, you need to make the first move.Personal details are kept confidential and are never shared with anyone besides the specialists.• Free AdviceI'm sure you don't want to pay if you don't have a claim for compensation. Once details are assessed you will be advised on the next necessary steps directly from a specialist. Remember each accident/injury case is unique, and each one requires specialist advice.• No CostsThere are no costs for using the service and is based on a no win no fee agreement. Which basically means if the firm loses, you don't pay anything, if it wins, the fee is recovered from the 3rd party.• No JargonIf you can't understand or a person is not on your level, how long does the relationship last?The same applies for personal injury. Until your case is settled, you will be in a binding relationship with a specialist. Now as for relationships…If you don't get along with your spouse or partner, not implying you don't, how long is the relationship going to last?A specialist forms a relationship and provides you simple English explanations, so that you understand.• No LoansThe majority of Claim Management Companies take advantage of loan agreements.Why? When a loan is signed, interest is charged by the bank. What this basically means is that, at the end of the claim, an £XXX amount of interest is accrued (i.e. accumulated). A substantial amount is gathered depending on the duration of the claim and is deducted from the compensation. YOUR compensation!Do you want to part with your money? No Loan agreements!• No InterestAs there are no loan agreements, the interest option doesn't exist.• No CatchesThis is one of the main factors that go through your head when you claim for personal injury.What's the catch?There is no catch... PERIOD!!!• No HassleIf you had an accident or are suffering an injury, you are physically and emotionally suffering from the aftermath. Now there is no reason for anyone to bombard you to claim for compensation. You don't want to be pressurised to claim as this would be hassling.You don't have the energy to be hassled and a company shouldn't have the audacity to do it. It's your claim and it's your choice.So DON'T claim with people who stop you on the street or knock on your door (canvassing) or even cold call you.• No DeductionsMajority of Claim Management Companies deduct a management fee from the final compensation. How insulting is that?"On the final settlement of your claim we shall deduct £200 - £500 from your compensation for handling your case"There should be no financial interest in your claim as it's an insult if you give a 'cut'.Think about it?• 100% CompensationNow this is the icing on the cake. 100% Compensation!You get ALL your money. You suffered the pain, trauma, shock, injury etc, you didn't share it. So why should you share your compensation!It's the NEW era in personal injury claims. Cut out the risks, costs, confusion and fear and claim compensation with the 12 'Revolutions' of personal injury.
Keyword : personal injury, personal injury claim, personal, injury, claim, compensation, accident, claims, sol

Criminal Law Information

2008-03-08T20:31:00.001-08:00

Author : Steve Austin
According to criminal law, crimes are offences against the social order. In common law jurisdictions, there is a legal fiction that crimes disturb the peace of the sovereign. Government officials, as agents of the sovereign, are responsible for the prosecution of offenders. Hence, the criminal law "plaintiff" is the sovereign, which in practical terms translates into the monarch or the people.The major objective of criminal law is deterrence and punishment, while that of civil law is individual compensation. Criminal offences consist of two distinct elements; the physical act (the actus reus, guilty act) and the requisite mental state with which the act is done (the mens rea, guilty mind). For example, in murder the 'actus reus is the unlawful killing of a person, while the 'mens rea is malice aforethought (the intention to kill or cause grievous injury). The criminal law also details the defenses that defendants may bring to lessen or negate their liability (criminal responsibility) and specifies the punishment which may be inflicted. Criminal law neither requires a victim, nor a victim's consent, to prosecute an offender. Furthermore, a criminal prosecution can occur over the objections of the victim and the consent of the victim is not a defense in most crimes.Criminal law in most jurisdictions both in the common and civil law traditions is divided into two fields:* Criminal procedure regulates the process for addressing violations of criminal law* Substantive criminal law details the definition of, and punishments for, various crimes.Criminal law distinguishes crimes from civil wrongs such as tort or breach of contract. Criminal law has been seen as a system of regulating the behavior of individuals and groups in relation to societal norms at large whereas civil law is aimed primarily at the relationship between private individuals and their rights and obligations under the law. Although many ancient legal systems did not clearly define a distinction between criminal and civil law, in England there was little difference until the codification of criminal law occurred in the late nineteenth century. In most U.S. law schools, the basic course in criminal law is based upon the English common criminal law of 1750 (with some minor American modifications like the clarification of mens rea in the Model Penal Code).Types of criminal law are: Arrests and Searches, Drug Crimes, Juvenile Law, Drunk Driving / DUI / DWI , Parole, Probation, Pardons, Violent Crimes, White Collar Crimes and Military Law.Criminal Law, please visit Free Legal Information.
Keyword : criminal law,legal

Do You Need A Paralegal Certificate?

2008-03-08T20:00:00.001-08:00

Author : Kent Pinkerton
Paralegals are an integral part of any law office, corporation or government agency that must work with lawyers. Paralegals keep the paperwork under control by indexing, photocopying, and organizing documents. Paralegals may also help draft legal documents, conduct hearings, and interview witnesses. The work of a paralegal depends both on experience, additional educational specialization, and the environment in which the paralegal works.The National Federation of Paralegal Associations recommends that most paralegals have a bachelor's degree. Although a survey indicated that only 50 percent of paralegals had a bachelor's degree in 2001, the four-year degree is quickly becoming an expected standard in this rapidly growing field.Paralegal certificate programs are offered by most colleges and universities, as well as online. Before enrolling in any program, make sure the program is approved by the American Bar Association. Paralegal certificate programs typically require a bachelor's degree, strong critical thinking and communication skills, a secure understanding of law ethics, a legal vocabulary, experience in a law office, and the ability to conduct legal interviews and research. Some programs also require a minimum college GPA.Paralegal certificate program participants can choose a variety of classes, such as management, public administration, policy-making, ethics and public responsibility, interviewing and research techniques, writing, and introductions to criminal, commercial and government law and litigation. The courses may also provide the foundation for a bachelor of arts degree in justice.Though California is currently the only state to have educational requirements for paralegals, many employers require similar standards, including certification. Paralegal certification may be granted by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA), by examination, and by the NFPA, by examination. Both of these programs require educational requirements to take the examination, which is why a paralegal certificate program may help a paralegal become certified. NALA has different combinations of education and experience to qualify for the test, and NFPA requires bachelor's degree with at least two years paralegal experience.Paralegals Info provides detailed information about paralegal jobs, schools, training, courses, certificates, and services. Paralegals Info is the sister site of Notary Public Web.
Keyword : paralegal, paralegal jobs, paralegal schools

Innocence: Presumed?

2008-03-08T19:31:00.001-08:00

Author : Marc Holterman
The English jurist William Blackstone coined the now clichéd phrase, "it is better ten guilty men go free than one innocent man be punished": Commentaries on the Laws of England, (1769) book 4, chapter 28.

Ever since one of the central, and most cherished, of common law principles is the presumption of innocence.

In the U.S.A. the presumption has never achieved formal constitutional entrenchment: Coffin v. U.S. 156 U.S. 432 (1895) at 454; but, "…its enforcement lies at the foundation of the administration of our criminal law" (Ibid., at p. 454).

Charter §11(d)

In Canada §11(d) of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms (being Schedule B, to the Constitution Act, 1982) reads,

"11. Any person charged with an offence has the right… (d) to be presumed innocent until proven guilty according to law in a fair and public hearing by an independent and impartial tribunal."

The Presumption

Legal presumptions are rebuttable; that is, it will be up to a trier of fact (e.g., a judge) to take to be true the presumed fact, unless and until, the party challenging it has accumlumated and introduced enough evidence to demonstrate beyond a reasonable doubt, that the assumption is untrue.

Thus, the presumption is a legal device which is designed to ensure that the accused is not convicted unfairly, or without probative evidence: i.e., Reference re Milgaard (Can.), [1992] 1 S.C.R. 866.

Duty Of The Prosecution

Crown "…counsel must exercise th[eir] discretion fairly, impartially, in good faith and according to the highest ethical standards": Federal Prosecution Service Deskbook §9.3 4, ll. 4 – 5.

Rand J. in Boucher v. The Queen, [1955] S.C.R. 16 (S.C.C.), at pp. 23-24 put it this way: "It cannot be over-emphasized that the purpose of a criminal prosecution is not to obtain a conviction, it is to lay before a jury what the Crown considers to be credible evidence relevant to what is alleged to be a crime. Counsel have a duty to see that all available legal proof of the facts is presented: it should be done firmly and pressed to its legitimate strength but it must also be done fairly. The role of prosecutor excludes any notion of winning or losing; his function is a matter of public duty than which in civil life there can be none charged with greater personal responsibility. It is to be efficiently performed with an ingrained sense of the dignity, the seriousness and the justness of judicial proceedings." [Emphasis added] See also, R. v. Charest (1990), 76 C.R. (3d) 63 (Qué C.A.) per Fish J.A.

It is extremely important to the proper administration of justice that Crown counsel be aware of and fulfill their duty to be fair: Cunliffe and Bledsoe v. Law Society of British Columbia (1984), 13 C.C.C. (3d) 560 (B.C.C.A.); to act objectively: R. v. Regan, [2002] 1 S.C.R. 297; and to see that only the right person is convicted: R. v. Sugarman (1935), 25 Cr. App. R. 109.

They have not only a legal obligation to do so, but a professional obligation: Conduct Rule 4.01 (3) of The Law Society of Upper Canada, "[w]hen acting as a prosecutor, a lawyer shall act for the public and the administration of justice resolutely and honourably within the limits of the law while treating the tribunal with candour, fairness, courtesy, and respect;" see also, CBA Code of Professional Conduct, chapter VIII, p. 29 commentary 7.

In Practice…

However laudable the Parliament's intent may be, the justice system is ultimately placed in the hands of people, who with all of their human frailties, don't always believe what they are supposed to.

While allegations abound that Crown prosecutors have acted in bad faith: Krieger v. Law Society of Alberta, [2002] 3 S.C.R. 372; that they have failed to disclose: R. v. Stinchcombe, [1991] 3 S.C.R. 326 per Sopinka, J. at §§11 and 19 – 21; R. v. Egger (1993), 82 C.C.C. (3d) 193 at 203 (S.C.C.); and R. v. La, (1997), 116 C.C.C. (3d) 97 (S.C.C.), at pp. 106-107; or acted in malice: Nelles v. Ontario, [1989] 2 S.C.R. 170; or engaged in other abuses of process: R. v. Jewitt, [1985] 2 S.C.R. 128; R. v. Leduc, [1993] 3 S.C.R. 641; and R. v. Finn, [1997] 1 S.C.R. 10; the number of instances in which prosecutorial misfeasance/malfeasance can be proved are rare.

Which is not to say that they don't exist: R. v. Roberts & Viccars, [1998] B.C.J. No. 3184 (Prov. Ct.) where the court found that, "the abuses in his case are varied and blatant and span the investigation … what [the CRA officer] did, aided and abetted by his supervisor…" showed "distain for the Charter;" and R. v. Saplys [1999] O.J. No. 393 (Ont. Gen. Div.)

It is instances such Roberts and Saplys, which indicate that among federal agencies, the Canada Revenue Agency, may have to work hardest to see that its officers comply with §11(d) of the Charter,

In the mean time, as Thomas Jefferson said, "the price of freedom is eternal vigilance."Staff Writer
For Tax Evasion Resources
http://www.taxevasionresources.com
Keyword : Tax, Evasion, CRA, 231.2(1), ITA, Requirements, Abuse, RPIDs, MNR, Objections, Form 400A, Paveley

Accident Injury Claim - Get The Right Solicitor To Succeed

2008-03-08T19:00:00.000-08:00

Author : Mohammad Latif
An accident injury can happen almost anywhere: at home, at work, on the road, shopping, during sport activities and so on. Each of these situations may bring many troubles, particularly if the injury is severe enough to affect your personal lifestyle or your ability to work for a longer time. However, with an accident injury claim it helps to compensate losses caused by the accident injury.It isn't always 100% recoverable such an annual holidays with friends and family. This and many others of the likes are not recoverable. It's something you have to miss.You can on the other hand retrieve any money paid for medical treatments, journeys in relation to the accident such as visits to physiotherapy or medical center. This is recoverable once your compensation claim is settled.'No Win No Fee' RevolutionSince 1998, solicitors work on a 'No Win No Fee' scheme, abolishing Legal Aid. It was put in effect due to many people no being able to get legal aid and didn't bother with their compensation. It made it easier and cost-free for the accident victim.Now, if you win your injury claim, you don't pay any fees and you get 100% of your money. The fees are recovered from the losing party. And if you lose, it still won't cost you anything if you use a quality accident solicitor who would write the costs off.No Fees Or CostsTherefore, no payment is required by an accident solicitor until the final verdict is reached. Yet still you don't pay for it. Being able to get a free assessment is another bonus as it allows you know for sure if you definitely have a claim for compensation. The solicitor should not hassle you to proceed.But they will advise you with the benefits to go ahead with an accident injury claim. If you do contact them, YOU decide if you want to make use of their skills and experience.Briliant Personal Injury SolicitorA quality claim solicitor will go through the stages of proceeding with an injury claim. Being able to predict possible payout figures and also the time it might take. Just by listening to them will you be able to examine their professionalism. They should have your interest at heart and shouldn't be taking your case, just for the money.Another absolute bonus is taking no deductions from your injury compensation, no loans being set up or any hidden interest - no catches or tricks. This would outline that the service of an injury solicitor is free for real. For you, it means there are no costs and no risk involved.Business EthicsAs the circumstances of every accident may vary, every accident claim requires an individual approach. A solicitor should take care of every detail of your compensation claim, so you may relax and wait for the results of their work. They should be highly skilled and experienced, as a result of numerous settled cases.Brilliant compensation solicitors are hard to find these days. But by finding one and not being able to contact them on some occasions does not mean they don't know about you or your case. They will be doing everything in their power to settle your claim.Also being part of an elite group of solicitors, they will have experience. Experience for converting technical jargon to the simplest format for you to understand. Advice is one powerful quality a solicitor gives you, so listen to them.The AftermathIf you had an accident, it leaves painful, traumatic memories and affects your lifestyle in many troublesome ways. Many of these bad experiences cannot be undone, but can be compensated. It's one of the main reasons why you shouldn't wait around with an accident claim in your pocket.With a personal injury solicitor's help, you can get what you deserve for your suffering and perhaps it may help you to start a new, better chapter in your life.It's easy to make an accident injury claim with a quality accident solicitor on your side. Discover, the 12 'Revolutions' in a positive personal injury culture at http://www.compensationsecrets.co.uk/accident-injury-claim.html
Keyword : accident injury claim, accident injury, injury claim, personal injury, personal injury solicitor, ac

Employment Law - Excessive Working Hours - Breach of Duty of Care

2008-03-08T18:31:00.001-08:00

Author : Rosanna Cooper
In the case of Mark Hone v Six Continents Retail Limited (2005), a pub landlord having collapsed due to overwork successfully sued his former employers in the County Court for breach of duty of care.Mr Hone, the claimant, started working for Bass (now Six Continents) as a pub manager in 1995 and in 1998 was awarded "Pub Manager of the Year". However, in 1999 he started working at The Old Moat House where he found himself working 13 hour days.He repeatedly complained to his employers that he was overworked but the employers took no action. He had no assistant manager and other staff members, who left, including two chefs and an administrative worker, were never replaced.Mr Hone, who had refused to sign a clause opting out of EU legislation that limits the number of hours an employee works, began suffering from headaches and insomnia. In May 2000, he collapsed at work suffering from an anxiety disorder. In 2004, Mr Hone sued Bass for breaching the duty of care owed to him as an employee.The first instance court ( Swansea County Court ) held that:Bass had not taken reasonable steps to ensure that Mr Hone did not work over 48 hours, which was likely to cause injury to his health, and that resources were available to employ more support staff for him; and
Bass should pay Mr Hone £21,000 in damages.Six Continents (formerly Bass) appealed this decision to the Court of Appeal who upheld the Swansea County Court's judgment.Comment: This case highlights the importance of not imposing excessive working hours on employees and ensuring that employees have sufficient staff support.If you require further information contact us at enquiries@rtcoopers.com© RT COOPERS, 2005. This Briefing Note does not provide a comprehensive or complete statement of the law relating to the issues discussed nor does it constitute legal advice. It is intended only to highlight general issues. Specialist legal advice should always be sought in relation to particular circumstances.Intellectual property law firm advising on patents, Patent attorneys, Patent Lawyers, Copyright, know-how, trade marks, trademarks, copyright law, IP lawyers, IP law Firm, IP valuations IP solicitors freedom to operate copyright lawyers, patent solicitors, branding,intellectual property lawyers, intellectual property solicitors. If you require further information contact us at enquiries@rtcoopers.com or visit our website at http://www.rtcoopers.com
Keyword : IP solicitors, IP lawyers, copyright solicitos, copyright lawyers, patent solicitors, patent lawyers

The Incredible Vanishing Window: Can You Really Get Out of Your Hotel Franchise Agreement?

2008-03-08T18:00:00.001-08:00

Author : Bradley Hansen
Many hotel franchisees have approached me to discuss "getting out" of their hotel franchises by utilizing their "additional termination rights" offered to them under the terms of their franchise agreements. These additional termination rights are typically referred to as "exit windows." The purpose of an exit window in a hotel franchise agreement is to essentially permit a franchisee to exit the franchise system for any reason at specified times during the term of the franchise agreement – ordinarily at the fifth or tenth anniversaries of the Opening Date of the hotel. These clauses can be extremely attractive to wary hotel franchisees who desire to have an "out" before the expiration of the franchise term if the hotel turns out to be an unprofitable venture.The most unique thing about these windows is that they are rarely "open" when a franchisee decides to exercise his or her rights under the franchise agreement and exit the franchise system. As with most clauses in hotel franchise agreements, the exit window is heavy-laden with preconditions and triggering effects that must occur before the franchisee can exit the system. In that regard, the exit window is not the safe, viable exit-option that hotel franchise salesmen often boast of and promote during the sale of the franchise.In many instances, these clauses require that you never receive a single notice of default from the franchisor or you risk losing your exit window rights without notice or opportunity to cure. Likewise, the agreement often requires that you achieve very high quality assurance scores after opening or your window rights will similarly disappear without notice. In essence, in most hotel franchise agreements, the franchisor reserves to itself the right to board over your exit windows so that they never see the light of day.During the term of a fifteen or twenty year hotel franchise agreement, it can be very important that you have the option to exit the franchise system without penalty if the hotel is, for whatever reason, underperforming. On more than one occasion, I have had clients who have attempted to exercise their exit window rights only to find that their windows had miraculously vanished years before due to a minor default alleged by the franchisor. At that point, as a franchisee, you have the option to de-identify your hotel and face a lawsuit from the franchisor for gargantuan penalty damages, or remain in the system and operate your hotel at an unprofitable level. Essentially, you're damned if you do and damned if you don't.When purchasing a hotel franchise, be cautious about believing your hotel salesman that you can "get out" anytime. To be certain, after the franchisor and its attorneys are finished drafting the contractual language attached to your exit window, you may just find that your window is nothing more than an illusion that can vanish at a moments notice.Finally, before signing on the dotted line, take the time to thoroughly review each term of your franchise agreement, including any exit window provisions, and consult with an experienced franchise attorney to fully comprehend and understand the potential pitfalls associated with each term. In the long run, this small investment of time and money will inevitably better prepare you for the future of your franchise and hopefully help you avoid surprises like vanishing windows.Bradley J. Hansen, Esq., is an attorney in the Northern Virginia law firm of Hughes & Associates, P.L.L.C. Mr. Hansen's practice focuses on franchise, construction and complex civil litigation. Brad can be reached at brad@hughesnassociates.com or by calling him at 703-671-8200.This article is not intended to provide legal advice, but to raise issues bearing on legal matters.
Keyword : Hotel, Franchise, Attorney, Franchisee, Franchisor, Agreement

When Circumvention is Necessary for Fair Use

2008-03-08T17:31:00.001-08:00

Author : Mikki Barry
Copyright law was carved out of our fundamental rights system in order to provide artists, writers, and others with a mechanism by which they would be rewarded for their creations by preventing others from copying them for a period of time. This "copyright" has always been coupled with the consumer/user's right of "fair use" which, among other things, provides for users to make copies of the work for non commercial archival purposes, and recently, for the right to make a copy of works in order to "timeshift," or enjoy the works at times more convenient than the original performance.Various distributors of copyrighted materials, notably the software, music and entertainment industries, have added mechanisms by which the user can no longer exercise their fair use rights by making archival copies or timeshifting performances. The Copyright office is now requesting comments regarding whether or not giving the user the right to circumvent these mechanisms is appropriate.There is substantial evidence produced by software creators, music producers and the rest of the entertainment industry that copying and re-distributing copyrighted works causes harm to those industries in lost sales opportunities. However, that is not necessarily the real issue. The Copyright Office is attempting to determine whether or not as a user who has provided the producer with fees or other consideration, has the right to then make use of the product in accordance with current copyright laws.An example that is close to my heart is timeshifting and archiving of high definition television signals. I pay DirecTV a substantial amount each month in order to watch high definition signals. DirecTV allows me to download these signals to timeshift via their digital video recorder device. However, the device will not allow me to archive the signals in the same format which they were saved. In order to archive the programming, it must be downgraded unless I circumvent the technology barriers to enjoy my fair use right.A similar issue occurs when purchasing a DVD. The user pays a fee to view the content of the disc, but is prevented from viewing that content if they leave the country and use a DVD player that is native to their new country. They are also prevented from making an archival copy of the DVD that they have already paid for. The user would have to use circumvention technology in that case to even view the DVD that they have already paid for.These industries have essentially "taken the law into their own hands" by denying the consumer the right to use fully paid up products as the law allows. While there is no doubt that circumvention technology COULD be used to make and distribute illegal copies of copyrighted materials, that is not the issue that is being addressed by this request for comments. Laws against illegal copying and distribution are already on the books, and are being enforced by harsh civil and criminal sanctions. Yet the consumer's use to unimpeded fair use of products they have paid for is ignored.Once a consumer has complied with the fees required by the distributor, the consumer should then have all rights to use the product, including fair use rights. While the distributor should be allowed reasonable means to protect their investment from illegal copying, the consumer should be guaranteed their fair use rights that emanate from the very same Copyright Act that provides protection for the distributor. If circumvention technology is necessary to exercise those fair use rights, the consumer should have the right to use it, but only to the extent that s/he needs to archive, timeshift, or even (in the case of regional prohibitions with DVDs) use the product.Mikki Barry is an intellectual property attorney in Great Falls, Virginia. She has been commenting on Internet legal issues and policies since 1984. To contact Mikki, please visit http://www.mikkibarry.com
Keyword : copyright, fair use, intellectual property

What Does A Criminal Attorney Do?

2008-03-08T17:00:00.001-08:00

Author : John Williams
A criminal attorney basically represents someone accused of a crime in court. Let me give you a little background before explaining what it is exactly that a criminal attorney does. Sometimes the law allows a person to use physical force against another, whether it is in self-defense or the protection of another, or even to protect one's property, these are all acceptable uses of self-defense. You and your criminal defense attorney are going to have to show at least four instances of why you had to defend yourself in such an extreme way. Your attorney will have to show the judge or jury that (1) your confrontation was unprovoked by you, (2) that you were in immediate danger of bodily harm, (3) that your use of force was necessary in preventing that harm, and (4) that the amount of force you used was reasonable.If you were in a position where you had to defend yourself against an attack from someone you think meant you bodily harm, it is up to your criminal attorney to prove that you had a reasonable belief the actions you used to defend yourself were necessary and just to prevent either your own death, the death of another, or serious bodily harm. The force used against you must be unlawful or improper, and directed toward you without your consent.Battered Wife Syndrome is a good example of self-defense. This defense is when a women has been subjected to physical and mental abuse continually by their husbands or significant others. Courts may find this case somewhat confusing because in most cases, women who kill their husbands also planned to kill them. If this is your situation, then your criminal attorney will have to prove to a jury or judge that under circumstances such as these, you had two choices--You can wait until your husband finally kills you or, kill your husband before he gets the opportunity to kill you. In this case, it will be up to the state prosecutor to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that killing your husband was not the only way out. For example: Why didn't you just leave your husband and go stay with a friend or relative and file for divorce? Or, you could have gotten a court order to restrict your husband from approaching you within so many feet. If Battered Wife Syndrome is your defense, then your criminal attorney will prepare you for this type of questioning.What does a criminal attorney do? The answer to that is, a lot. They will fight for your defense because he or she believes in your innocence and constitutional rights, no matter what you have done. If you were charged with a serious crime in the past, but today you are sleeping in your own soft bed and not a concrete slab, you have your criminal defense attorney to thank.John Williams writes about criminal defense issues at http://www.criminalattorneysweb.com

This article should not be taken as official legal advice.
Keyword : criminal attorney, criminal defense attorneys, criminal law

Work Injury Claim - Easy If You Make It!

2008-03-08T16:31:00.001-08:00

Author : Mohammad Latif
If you had an accident at work, its consequences can get very complicated. A work injury claim can help if it disables and makes you less useful as an employee to the company. The recovery takes time and your co-workers can react in different ways when they have more work to do because of your health problems.They may be unhappy with you slowing their work or they may think that you're practically being lazy and your injury is just an excuse so you needn't work harder.
So your situation at work gets worse, even though it's not your fault that you're suffering from an accident.Accidents do occur and you shouldn't be punished for it. The injury may result in smaller earnings, you can be demoted, transferred to other tasks or lose a future chance of promotion.Not to mention that one day you may hear from your boss, the time has come for you depart from the company and suddenly you are left with nothing.Are You Going To Get Sacked?On the other hand, you realise you can make a work injury claim. But you also think about it not being fair on the company and could jeopardise your relationship within. However a work accident claim can solve many issues brought to hand. Such as stating the obvious financial, the reason why we go to work. To get paid!The injury assessment and medical report, once obtained from a medical specialist will determine the worth of your compensation claim. It could also bring to light areas at work that are dangerous to work and will help the company to improve and prevent further accident injuries.It may also prove that your injury is more serious than your co-workers and bosses think. If the accident was not your fault, your company should bear all the consequences, as they haven't obeyed the Health & Safety Regulations.A workplace accident claim can also compensate for many personal problems following your injury at work - because we can't forget that your life doesn't end at work as it affects your everyday life, both personal and social.I Had An Accident At Work - What Should I Do?There are certain procedures and things you should do if you want to make a compensation claim for a workplace injury. At the very beginning, your injury should be recorded in the company's accident book. If your firm has more than 10 employees, the presence of such book is required by law.If for some reason the accident book is not available, you should advise your boss with a description of the accident and any injuries sustained. If there were any witnesses to the accident, they should add their knowledge of detail to the record.You should also be asked to write down a detailed version of the entire situation - it's good to prepare it as soon as possible, so you won't forget anything and you will have it ready for any further proceedings. If you can, take photos of the workplace area plus any machines that were involved.Then you should visit your doctor, so he or she could make a medical entry concerning your injury. If the injury is serious enough to make you unable to work, you should organise your statutory sick pay with your employer. It could also be useful for your accident injury claim to at least recover your earnings.Of course, if you want to claim your compensation, the best you can do is to contact an accident solicitor, who will advise and guide you through the process of making a claim. Quality accident solicitor's services are free, based on a 'No Win No Fee' policy, which means that regardless of the claim's final result, you don't pay anything.On the other hand if you win, you get 100% of your workplace injury compensation. If you have any questions or doubts about proceeding you should contact one today! But can you see any reason why you shouldn't use a professional and a 100% free based service that can bring you compensation for your accident at work?It's easy to make a work injury claim, if you know how. Learn the 12 revolutions of the new accident claim culture at http://www.compensationsecrets.co.uk/work-injury-claim.html and get a free assessment.
Keyword : work injury claim, injury claim, work injury, accident at work, workplace injury, workplace accident

Questions To Ask A Personal Injury Lawyer During Your Consultation

2008-03-08T16:00:00.001-08:00

Author : Philip Franckel
Q: Is this consultation given without charge to me?About Your Rights:
Q: What rights do I have that need to be protected?Q: Who will pay my medical bills; physical therapy bills; drug bills; transportation expenses; temporary or permanent household help; lost income; property damage; and pain and suffering?Q: What do I have to do to protect my rights to these claims? What forms and papers do I need to obtain? Where do I get these forms? Will you fill out all the forms for me? If needed, will you help me with my medical claim? If needed, will you help me with my property damage claim?Q: What claim letters need to be sent; how many insurance companies must be notified? Will you do this for me?How can you determine whether you want to hire a specific lawyer? You may feel nervous when hiring a lawyer, but remember that you are the one doing the hiring. While lawyers who primarily represent people in accidents charge a contingency fee (a fee that is charged at the end of the case and only if you are successful) you will still want to know that you are satisfied with your choice. Even though you pay a fee after you receive a money award, you are the one paying the bill. Serious injuries can result in significant compensation for both you and your lawyer. That makes you an important client!Q: If I have a question about my case, will I be able to speak with you directly or do I have to speak to a paralegal? Is it okay if I speak with you occasionally when I have a question or to find out the status of my case?Q: How long have you and your law firm been practicing law?Q: Do you practice primarily in the field of Personal Injury and accidents?Q: Do you have professional liability insurance? (Professional liability insurance also protects you, the accident victim, in case an error is made that damages your case.)Q: When will I be charged? (Personal injury lawyers usually charge a contingency fee. A contingency fee is one that is charged at the end of the case and only if you are successful. This allows anyone who has been hurt in an accident to have easy access to a lawyer.)Q: How much will I be charged?Q: Will I be charged a legal fee if you do not recover money for me?Q: Am I responsible for case expenses if you do not recover money for me?Q: What are my alternatives to resolve my claim? Do you ever utilize mediation and arbitration?Q: Have you or your law firm done any trials?Q: (If married) Is my spouse entitled to any of the settlement or money awarded? What happens if I get divorced?Q: (If a child is injured) Which parent will bring the claim? What happens to the settlement money?Philip L. Franckel, Esq., is the founder of http://www.HURT911.org an accident and injury research web site for people hurt in an accident and personal injury lawyers. Mr. Franckel also publishes articles on Lawyer Advertising at http://www.Lawyer-Advertising-Blog.com and provides advertising for lawyers at http://www.HURT911.org/getclient.php
Keyword : accident lawyer, injury lawyer, accident attorney, injury attorney, question lawyer, question attorn

Gross Violation of Civil Rights Committed Against Falsely Convicted Englishman

2008-03-08T15:31:00.001-08:00

Author : Ronald Nordquist
If being denied a legal defense, convicted on a prosecutor's case alone without being allowed to present his case, and having key defense evidence completely ignored isn't enough outrage and wrongful enough to be considered violating one's civil rights, then let's add limiting visit times from 8 hours on Sundays to just 25 minutes, denial of a 2 hour pastoral visit, death threats from drunken guards, and physical separation from human contact to the heap. The 25 minute limit is even more shocking when it is revealed that it was Alden's mother who flew in from England who was denied a full visit! Craig Eliot is suffering in his prison cell in central, rural Brazil.The limiting of the mother's visit? This should raise eyebrows all around the world. Tony Blair, where are you? Jack Straw, where have you run off to? President Lula, just exactly what is going through your mind to allow this ridiculous travesty of justice and civil rights abuse to continue to have a life of its own in your country?This is a grand opportunity for South America's strongest economic power to step up, admit they made a mistake, and do the right thing, yet they delay, stall, and remain confused and bedazzled on just exactly what should done to move things along.There is an old US Civil War story that has several union generals on horseback at a river bank discussing and speculating just exactly how deep a river was that the army was about to
cross. After some time, a bold young officer lost his patience and rode his horse out into the river, and with the water level acceptable for a ford declared, "This generals...this is how deep the river is."This is what President Lula must do. He must say to the world "This is how we make a wrong into a right in Brasil", and then sign the document releasing Craig Eliot Alden.To learn more about this case, go to http://www.freecraigalden.com/This article can be republished as long as the author's bio is included with it.Ronald Nordquist is an American and a language expert living in Brazil, operating a small business together with his Brazilian wife. They have a 2 year old son. He has an MBA from Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan and a web site at http://myweb.ecomplanet.com/bttu3570/ He wants to return to the USA.
Keyword : civil rights abuse, prisoner rights, inmate conditions, death threats, Tony Blair, Jack Straw

Attorneys And What They're Good For - Part II

2008-03-08T15:00:00.001-08:00

Author : Michael Russell
In this second of a series on lawyers and what they're good for, we're going to turn our attention first to criminal law. There are two sides to this. The first side is the prosecution. It is their job to put a case together in such a manner that the facts will show beyond any doubt that the person on trial is guilty. Let's be honest, if these people did not do their jobs correctly, we would have a number of truly hardened dangerous criminals on the streets. And for those who think that there are no criminals in the world you might simply want to put on the news at night. These poor victims aren't being robbed and killed by nobody. Without prosecuting attorneys and the laws behind them these people would continue to be out on the streets doing their mayhem.On the other side is the defense. In most cases, unfortunately, these lawyers are defending people who are clearly guilty and because of this you just want to send them all packing to that inferno below. But every now and then there is someone on trial who is truly innocent and they need a lawyer more than anyone because we are literally, in many cases, talking about the difference between life and death. An associate of mine has personally told me of cases he has been witness to where someone was accused unjustly of a crime and almost went to jail until the truth finally came out, either in a last minute testimony or in evidence that had been presented at the eleventh hour. Yes, there are innocent people who do stand trial. That is why we need defense lawyers.Then there are lawyers who specialize in slander and libel cases. Someone prints something totally untrue about you in their newspaper that ruins your reputation. You lose your job, lose respect in the community and basically have your life in a shambles. Without these lawyers to go to court, armed with the facts, to show that you have in fact been slandered your life would be over. You may not get your reputation back once the news is out, and your job may still be gone for good, but at least with the monetary settlement you won't have to worry about paying your bills. And again, if you think this doesn't happen, it does.Finally, for this article, we're going to go over the usefulness of income tax attorneys. You're a law abiding citizen. You pay your taxes every year. But one year you make an honest, but horrible, mistake that lands you in a load of trouble with the IRS. It is the job of this lawyer to prove that the mistake you made was an honest one and was not done intentionally. You may still have to pay some kind of penalty but at least you won't end up going to jail for tax evasion.As much as we may or may not like lawyers and applaud every joke that comes our way about them, we would really be in deep trouble in way many areas if we didn't have them around.Kill all the lawyers? Maybe not a good idea.
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Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Attorneys
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Keyword : attorneys,lawyers

Florida DUI Arrests

2008-03-08T14:31:00.001-08:00

Author : Josh Riverside
DUI implies driving under the Influence and DWI means driving while intoxicated. These are violations under the Florida law and a person found to be violating DUI or Violators of DWI laws can be arrested and penalized under the Driving Under the Influence of Alcoholic Beverages, Chemical Substances or Controlled Substances Law s. 316.193, F.S. A person is said to be under the influence of alcohol if he/she has blood or breath alcohol content of more than 0.08 (grams of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood or grams of alcohol per 210 liters of breath).If a person is convicted of drunk driving under Florida, it would mean a permanent criminal record, fine, community service, loss of license, vehicle immobilization, higher insurance rates and may be even imprisonment. In case of arrest, it is better to consult a good DUI attorney who would help to lessen the jail term or even stop it.Florida DUI attorneys can provide defense based on the test results if they are favorable for the client. They can also defend the client by analyzing the environment and road conditions at the time and location of the arrests and any other factors that may have affected the sobriety tests at that time. Defense can also be built by analyzing the DUI deposition testimonies of the cops as well as state expert witnesses. Attorneys can effectively review the case for any loopholes, conduct independent analysis of the blood samples, check the calibration and maintenance records of the breath-analyzing machine, suppress evidence and obtain good witnesses to provide the best defense.There are several formalities after a DUI arrest. There would be a formal Motor Vehicle Hearing, which can be requested 10 days after the license has been confiscated. This hearing is very important because losing here would be loss of the temporary license as well (a temporary license is usually given until the hearing). Hence, it is very important to have good defense strategy at this stage itself. The next stage is the Arraignment, which can be dated some 30-60 days from the date of the arrest. This is basically for the advisement of rights and doesn't have to be attended in person if the accused has an attorney. The suppression hearing, which occurs anytime between 6 weeks to 3 months after the pre-trial conference, is the next stage. The trial is generally held within 6 months after the plea is submitted. The jury usually comprises of 6 members. The final stage is sentencing after a conviction or the acceptance of a plea bargain.Conditions for release of persons arrested under DUI are given under s. 316.193 (9), F.S. They are: the person should not longer be under influence, the person's normal faculties should no longer be impaired, the person's BAL levels are less than 0.05 or eight hours have elapsed since the time of arrest.Florida DUI Attorneys provides detailed information about Florida DUI attorneys, Florida alcohol treatments, Florida DUI and fines, and more. Florida DUI Attorneys is affiliated with Los Angeles County DUI Lawyers.
Keyword : Florida DUI attorneys, Florida alcohol treatments, Florida DUI and fines

Stress at Work in the UK

2008-03-08T14:00:00.001-08:00

Author : Julian Hall
There can be much unhappiness, depression ill health and stress which can be brought on by bad working conditions & unfair working practices. In many cases, there are good grounds for claiming compensation for stress at workFor example:Unrealistic service levels or deadlines at work causing stress and depressionThe rise in sexual discrimination can lead to stress and depression at workAn unclean work environment stress and depression at workThe fear of continual racist abuse causing stress and depression at workNot allowing necessary breaks from work can often cause stress and depression at workEmployees who become depressed at work through stress, they deserve to claim compensationWhat is stress?HSE defines stress as "the adverse reaction people have to excessive pressure or other types of demand placed on them". Pressure is part and parcel of all work and helps to keep us motivated . But excessive pressure can lead to stress which undermines performance, is costly to employers and can make people ill.Why do we need to tackle stress?· about half a million people in the UK experience work-related stress at a level they believe is making them ill;· up to 5 million people in the UK feel "very" or "extremely" stressed by their work; and· a total of 12.8 million working days were lost to stress, depression and anxiety in 2004/5.Employers should look at:· developing appropriate and effective policy· organising a risk assessment and benchmarking exercise· developing appropriate training for managers and staff· developing support structures and services as neededBullying at work can be grounds for compensationThere are many more causes of employee stress and depression at work.However there is some good news. You could be entitled to reasonable compensation if you are suffering stress and depression at work or have been forced to resign from work because of undue stress which has led to depression.****************************************************************If you need advice or would just like to speak to someone, please don't hesitate to give Claims Master Group a call on 08000 71 22 71.The Personal Injury, Accident Claim, No Win No Fee, Stress at work in the UK specialists.Julian Hall is the director of Claims Master GroupThe Personal Injury, Accident Claim, No Win No Fee, Road Traffic Accidents specialists.
Keyword : Personal Injury,Accident Claim,Personal injury,accident at work,road accident,road traffic accident,

Divorce & Health Insurance

2008-03-08T13:31:00.001-08:00

Author : Carolyn Magura
Recently, I had a question from someone who was going through a divorce and was concerned about lost health insurance coverage because she was covered under her husband's insurance. She was concerned not just for herself, but for her children as well. This question comes up a lot. See is this answer helps you better understand what to do. If you have additional questions on this topic, feel free to add to the blog, and I'll answer them.Medical Insurance and DivorceTo answer your questions specifically, here are some ideas to consider.1) You and your children are automatically covered under your husband's insurance as a dependent until you divorce.2) When your divorce is final, you have the opportunity to continue your husband's insurance by triggering what is called "COBRA". (Note: there is another blog entry that defined COBRA.) This will continue your coverage for an additional 18 months; unfortunately, you will have to pay the full cost of the coverage (and the company can have you pay 102 - 105% of the coverage cost).Your children, by law, will becovered under the parent's coverage whose birth date occurs first in the calender year.3) One suggestion is that when you hire an Attorney to assist with your divorce, you might want to ask, in the settlement negotiations, to have the price of the COBRA payments included in your settlement. This would be particularly important if you happen to have the early-in-the year birthdate, and will be paying for the children's health insurance coverage. This cost should not have to come out of your child support, as it can be VERY EXPENSIVE.4) Whatever you decided to do, keep all documents together. Whenever you talk to anyone, document to whom you talk, get the name and tele #, and what was said by all in the conversation as soon as possible after the conversation. In this way, you document what is said, and do not have to rely on memory. Also, when you send anything to anyone, keep a copy for yourself, and send it by registered mail, so that you have proof of receipt.About Disabilitykey.com & Carolyn Magura:Disabilitykey.com is a website designed to assist each person in his/her own unique quest to navigate through the difficult and often conflicting and misleading information about coping with disabilities.Carolyn Magura, noted disability / ADA expert, has written an e-Book documenting the process that allowed her to:a) continue to work and receive her "full salary" while on Long Term Disability; andb) become the first person in her State to qualify for Social Security Disability the FIRST TIME, in UNDER 30 DAYS.Click here to receive Carolyn 's easy-to-read, easy-to-follow direct guide through this difficult, trying process. If you are disabled, don't let this disabiling process disable you. Read Carolyns Disability Key Blog.
Keyword : health, pain, disability, medicine, insurance, divorce

Legal Advice on Defending Yourself Against Others

2008-03-08T13:00:00.001-08:00

Author : Emanuele Allenti
At one time, it was not illegal to defend yourself if someone attacked you on the streets. However, in
a few states, if you retaliate when assaulted, both parties are arrested, even though you were merely
defending yourself against the attacker.This is sounds like insanity, but the laws has determined that "word against word" is the issue; thus,
the crime should be taken to court to determine what caused the incident, why the incident occurred,
and who is responsible for the crime committed. If there is a third party involved in the act--rather if
a third person intervenes in an attempt to protect the victim--it may fall under the "alter ego rule" or
rather the third person is permitted to defend the victim on particular grounds.Under the Texas Penal Codes, for example, the law states that under a defending act of a third party,
that the person is legally excused if this persons utilizes "force against another to... [protect the third
party.]" This person cannot use this action if he feels that the third party is in no danger; however, if
the party feels that the victim is in a life threatening situation, or else brutality is involved, then this
person must use thoughtful consideration in taking action to protect the third party.Other states may only permit the party to restrain the culprit until the police arrive. Yet, few states
will consider this act a Citizen's Arrest, where the party holds the culprit temporarily in his/her
custody until the police arrive at the scene of the crime. For more information on self-defense, check
your local state laws. This is crucial because your stay may have completely different laws than the
law cited above from the state of Texas–and if you have to defend yourself in court, you will want to
know what those laws are and if they work in your favor or against you.Emanuele Allenti offers valuable tips and help about professional legal advice and personal legal advice. Enter now!
Keyword : legal advice

California DUI Laws

2008-03-08T12:31:00.001-08:00

Author : Ken Marlborough
California DUI Laws are so strict that the state leads the nation in DUI arrests. These laws are meant to reduce the number of drunk driving cases. Victims and survivors of drunk driving crashes have supported the DUI Law. It is important to have strict DUI Laws so that drunk drivers are not allowed to put the lives of others at risk. Drunk driving is the most frequently committed violent crime in California. It is necessary to punish an offender under different DUI laws that try a person accordingly, including varying penalties if causing death, injury, or personal or property damage.California DUI laws include specifics such as blood alcohol content level test, license suspension or revocation, checking of ignition interlocks device in the vehicle, field sobriety test to assess physical and mental alertness, etc. First time offenders charged under DUI law could be sentenced to jail with minimum fine. But second offenses occurring within seven years of the first are dealt with more harsh law. It could be minimum ten days of jail and fines up to $10,000. And suspension of driving license for not less than three years. DUI Laws have severe criminal penalties based on the severity of the outcome of DUI related crash. One must also consider the emotional aspect that can affect the passing of DUI laws.California DUI laws have changed over the years in order to curb the increasing number of deaths and injuries occurring due to DUI related accidents. DUI laws have been argued to be unconstitutional in that by automatically finding drivers guilty, a person loses his/her right to have a trial by jury. But at the same time it has been argued to be 'legal per se'. Unfortunately, DUI accidents take an innocent life every thirty minutes, so it is argued that DUI laws should allow for impartial jury trials.California DUI Lawyers provides detailed information about California DUI lawyers, California alcohol treatment, California DUI arrests, California DUI defense and more. California DUI Lawyers is the sister site of Florida DUI Attorneys.
Keyword : California DUI lawyers, California alcohol treatment, California DUI arrests, California DUI defense

Louisiana Insurance Lawyers

2008-03-08T12:00:00.001-08:00

Author : Eric Morris
Although Louisiana is a part of the United States, its legal system is different other states. So you need to be careful before filing a lawsuit in the state of Louisiana. You can easily find lawyers dealing with insurance cases by surfing the Internet or consulting your friends, or you can seek the advice of fresh law graduates about a competent insurance lawyer and his fees. You can then contact the lawyer and, after settling the charges, get a written contract so as to avoid any future misunderstanding.A good insurance lawyer can help you if the insurance companies have wrongfully denied you your insurance claims. Depending upon the nature of your case, he can assist you in a vide variety of disputes in many types of insurance claims, including environmental- and asbestos-related claims which may run into huge amounts, as the exposure to asbestos dust and flakes causes almost diseases like Mesothelioma, whose treatment costs thousands of dollars per month.But it must be noted in this context that asbestos-related lawsuits have to be filed within a stipulated date, after which you lose your eligibility to file your claims. So, as soon as you are diagnosed with Mesothelioma, you should immediately contact your lawyer before it is too late. Besides, the insurance lawyers can also take up other claims, such as construction defects claims, advertising and personal injury claims, employment related claims and more. These claims are filed under many types of insurance policies, and coverage forms and a variety of insurance schemes.But be careful: a lawyer who has been good for someone else's case may not be good for your case. In these specialized times, a lawyer who is competent in one field might not do well in another.Louisiana Lawyers provides detailed information about Louisiana lawyers, Louisiana probate lawyers, Louisiana real estate lawyers, Louisiana divorce lawyers and more. Louisiana Lawyers is the sister site of New Jersey Business Lawyers.
Keyword : Louisiana lawyers, Louisiana probate lawyers, Louisiana real estate lawyers, Louisiana divorce lawye

Desk Jobs, Manual Work and Gaming - the Hidden Health Scandal

2008-03-08T11:31:00.000-08:00

Author : Sophie Evan
These days a large proportion of the jobs available to the UK labour force are desk jobs. Even jobs that have always been associated with being on the road or outdoors type roles now feature a certain amount of computer time. For example, the police, who have long been allied with the image of the 'bobby on the beat', out on the streets, hunting for crooks, are spending increased periods of their shifts writing reports and filling in forms at their desk.Although people have been fulfilling desk jobs for many decades, it is only in recent years that people have realised quite why they are suffering from acute back pain, tingling fingers and sore wrists. It has taken some time to grasp the link between work and pain but nowadays the discomfort that is suffered by a large number of people on a regular basis is directly linked to their desk job, the way they sit, the tasks they carry out and the work station provisions that employers are responsible for.Work related injuries or industrial illnesses are now recognised as a very real problem that costs individuals in more than one way. They might have to bear the brunt of a loss of earnings, time off work, possible permanent painful disability and the pain that comes with a musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) (also classed as repetitive strain injury or RSI), such as carpal tunnel syndrome, vibration white finger and other back, neck and arm problems.The key to minimising MSD's is to eliminate work related risks. If a role entails stints of high speed typing then breaks should be encouraged and other activities which take the typist away from the keyboard should be built into each working day. Prevention is very important when it comes to this type of work related illness. Anyone suffering from this type of injury may not be able to work in their chosen field in the future because their injury prevents it.By law, employers also have to ensure that their employees have a suitable workstation and as such must carry out a work station assessment. Some of the standards set out in the assessment are as follows:Ensure that all staff have a suitable, fully adjustable chair with lumbar support if they need it, the chair should have a suitable length bottom cushion so that the employee can sit right back without pressure behind the kneeThe computer screen should be at a suitable height and the correct distance away from the person using it (20 inches away is recommended)That a wrist support is supplied if necessary, this supports the wrist when not typingThere should be enough leg room under the desk so that the employee can move their legs around comfortablyThe computer screen should be free from glare. All employees should also have an eye test, paid for by their employer if they feel that they need oneThe area should be free from obstacles such as wires and pieces of office furniture and equipmentWhen typing the wrists should be in a flat neutral positionCarpal tunnel syndrome (a type of compression neuropathy (nerve damage) caused by compression and irritation of the median nerve in the wrist) and repetitive strain injury are extremely common complaints amongst people who have to carry out repetitive tasks such as typing, stapling or any other recurring movement that is unnatural and awkward. It is estimated that in 2001/2002 12.3 million working days were lost in the UK to work related MSD's. Many people who have to type for long periods of time, find that over time they begin to experience pain in their hands, arms, neck and back. Fortunately the symptoms can be eased but only but ceasing the activity that caused the problem in the first place. Bad news for typists.The desk job populace aren't the only ones to suffer however. With the rise and rise of gaming, from video games such as Playstation to Internet multi-play games, there has been a huge increase in the number of people with RSIs that aren't related to work.Children are becoming the new victims of MSD because of their passion for games. With millions of children owning a game facility the rise of carpal tunnel syndrome in and out of the work place could become the new scourge of society.These days employers cannot argue ignorance as a plea against personal injury cases brought against them, including for cases of RSIs such as carpal tunnel syndrome. If they fail to adequately protect their employees from injury by expecting them to carry out repetitive tasks such as typing without breaks then they leave themselves open to becoming liable to pay accident compensation.If you have been injured in an accident at work in whatever capacity, from a slip or a trip to an RSI developed because of your workload, then you are entitled to seek free legal advice and can claim compensation for your suffering and for any future loss of earnings.For free legal advice regarding making a personal injury claim or to learn more about carpal tunnel syndrome, you can call us on 0800 197 32 32.Call 0800 197 32 32 or visit http://www.the-claim-solicitors.co.uk for more details.Author: Sophie Evan
Keyword : Carpal tunnel syndrome, work related injury, industrial illness, repetitive strain injury

Legal Forms Software

2008-03-08T11:00:00.000-08:00

Author : Jason Gluckman
You may be a lawyer, or engaged in a profession where you are likely to be confronted with a baffling barrage of legal processes involving the filling out of forms as a part of your job. These processes may pertain to a variety of cases, like credits, accidents, financial transactions, rents, tariffs, declarations, wills, health, property, affidavits, partnerships, marriage and divorce, sales or purchase, insurance cases, police cases, drunken driving and more. The list can be endless. Filling out a plethora of Legal Forms may be tedious and time-consuming, leaving you yearning for an easy solution.Legal Form Software comes as a welcome solution in such a situation. It can do all this time-consuming work for you in a matter of minutes. It facilitates the organization of the legal work and gives you precise information about the legal points, thus doing away with the need to consult law books or legal experts every time a doubt arises about the validity of the information you are about to file in a given form.Good Legal Software is a huge reservoir of information, available at the click of a mouse. It also has the advantage of increasing your productivity. An important point that must be noted before going in for Legal Software is that it should contain high-quality content prepared by reputable professional lawyers and business processes experts. The legal and business forms in it should be properly formatted, with sufficient scope for editing as per your specific requirements.Above all, it should be compatible with the software systems installed in your computer. It should work easily with most word processor programs. It should also be amenable to frequent updating to stay current with the day-to-day changes that take place due to the continuously evolving process of law and other business processes.It should also be simple and easy to use. Complicated software is a great repellent. Good Legal Software saves you time, money and effort, and is a pleasure to operate.Legal Forms provides detailed information about legal forms, business legal forms, divorce legal forms, free legal forms and more. Legal Forms is the sister site of Medical Power Of Attorney.
Keyword : legal forms, business legal forms, divorce legal forms, free legal forms

Florida DUI Arrests

2008-03-08T10:31:00.000-08:00

Author : Max Bellamy
Over the past few years' road accidents have risen to an alarming level, and the ones related to drunk driving are becoming increasingly common. Legal action in such cases can be complicated and sometimes unjust. However, penalties and arrests are the only ways in which DUI (driving under influence) cases can be curbed. The police and the FDHSMV (Florida Department of Highway Security and Motor Vehicles) should not be blamed if strong action is taken to check a drunk driver.Florida DUI arrests are made when a driver is detected with a 0.08% of alcohol present in his blood sample, urine or breath. Immediate legal action follows, and the defendant has around 10 business days to make a special plea to the FDHSMV in order to save his license from being revoked for an indefinite period. Failure to do so leads to the instant seizure of the driver's license for a minimum of 6 months. Jail terms may follow if the DUI offense is particularly serious like that of a vehicular homicide.All Florida DUI arrests are usually quite severe. Jail terms in cases of first convictions start with a meager 6-month term. However, all arrests and jail terms depend on the amount of damage done by the offender to life and property. The arrests can, if convicted, incur a jail sentence of 30 year. These occur in vehicular homicides, where the drunk driver had initially fled the scene.There are quite a few websites like www.search-detectice.net and www.floridaDL.com that talk at length about Florida DUI arrests. Employers might want to browse through official DUI arrest records before employing a driver. These sites also provide adequate information about DUI criminal records. This is one way that an employer can help reduce the risks of DUI accidents all across Florida and the US.Florida DUI provides detailed information about Florida DUI, Florida DUI arrests, Florida DUI attorneys, Florida DUI laws and more. Florida DUI is the sister site of California DUI Lawyers Info.
Keyword : Florida DUI, Florida DUI arrests, Florida DUI attorneys, Florida DUI laws

The Squeeze-Out or Buying out a Minority Interest Shareholder at an Unfair Price

2008-03-08T10:00:00.000-08:00

Author : Dave Kauppi
If you are a minority interest shareholder in a privately held company, watch out for these Red Flags:· The majority shareholder grants himself a salary and benefit package way above the going market rate – in effect granting him a constructive dividend· No dividends are paid from a very profitable company· He begins using the company as his personal piggy bank· You are removed from your Board of Director position· Company financial information is withheld from you· You are fired from the company without causeIf one or of these events has occurred, watch out! The next shoe to fall is an unsolicited offer to buy out your shares. The offer price seems unusually low. If you protest, expect the buyer to refer you to the shareholder agreement where the corporation has the right of first refusal to buy your shares at net book value. That number, for most companies, values your shares at pennies on the dollar.You next get the speech that the majority shareholder will never sell his company. The price I am offering is all the company can afford. We are not going to pay any dividends. This is a risky market and the business could falter. This is the only way you are going to get any liquidity for your stock.In family situations this can be devastating. It is usually the result of children inheriting the business through either gifting or from dad's estate. Because 90% of his net worth is tied up in the business, to be fair, he has to give essentially equal shares to all of his children. Maybe Son A and Daughter C work in the business and Son B and Daughter D do not. Dad gives 30% ownership to each sibling in the business and 20% to each sibling that is not involved.The two siblings running the business begin to blur the lines between stock ownership and employment. They develop an attitude of entitlement. Those other two siblings did nothing to grow this business. The company-involved owners begin to view their stock as more valuable than the other siblings. Their salaries and perks get bloated and no dividends get paid to the other shareholders. I don't think Bill Gates refuses to pay dividends to his stockholders because "they did nothing to grow this business".Here is where the problems begin. Dad has left a company shareholder agreement in place that makes it almost impossible for a minority shareholder to get a fair price for their company stock. Dad has also done a great job of estate tax planning, using all available legal means to minimize the gift and estate taxes resulting from transferring ownership to the next generation.The most common approach is to form two or more Family LLC's that would be the owners of the company stock and then dad gives a gift of an equal share of the LLC's to each heir. This effectively breaks the company into several minority interest ownership positions. Now a qualified valuation firm is hired to value the LLC's. All of a sudden the value of the company evaporates.Here is how it works. Let's say that Johnson Corporation would command a price of $9 million if an M&A firm in a competitive market transaction sold it. However, Johnson Corporation is 33% minority owned by three different Family LLC's. The valuation firm values the company stock held in each LLC not at $3 million, but at $3 million less a 40% lack of control discount, or $1.8 million. Next they apply a lack of marketability discount (after all, the shareholder agreement restricts the sale to outside investors) and the valuation drops further to $1,080,000. Now the three LLC's are added back together and the $9 million company is valued at $2,240,000 for "Gift and Estate Tax Purposes".This document is submitted as supporting documentation with the gift or estate tax filing – very official. The IRS examiner reviews it and accepts it as the basis for the tax payment. Two years later the two siblings running the company approach the other two siblings and present them with a buy-out offer accompanied with this valuation that was filed and accepted by the IRS. Son B owns 20% of the company stock through his interests in the three Family LLC's. He is offered 20% of $3,240,000 or $648,000 for his company ownership. The fair value is 20% of $9,000,000 or $1,800,000.He has no idea what the company is worth and has never been given any information of earnings or comparable M&A transactions in the market. Even though the valuation has on its cover, "For Gift and Estate Tax Purposes Only," he does not understand the implications of that standard blanket disclaimer.His natural reaction is that this document was filed with the IRS and accepted. It must be pretty close to what my stock is worth. If someone were not involved in this area of law professionally (estate tax attorney, estate planner, tax accountant, valuation firm, investment banker, or IRS agent), they would likely accept this as the accurate value of their shares. I tell clients that it would be like being handed an MRI of my heart and being asked to interpret it. I am not experienced in this very specialized area and therefore would depend on my doctor to interpret it for me.A nationally recognized and credentialed valuation firm complete with 50 pages of discounted cash flow and other sophisticated analysis and data completed this valuation. It next passed the scrutiny of the IRS examiners. Now a family member is interpreting it for you. What conclusion are your supposed to draw?Unfortunately this happens all the time. Usually it results in the non-involved siblings having a standard of living that is significantly different than what dad had intended when he equally divided his estate among all his children. Dad would not approve.Dave Kauppi is a business broker and President of MidMarket Capital. We help business owners with all aspects of Mergers and Acquisitions.
Keyword : Squeeze-Out, shareholder oppression, minority shareholder rights, minority interest valuation

Franchise Agreements and Conditions of Transfer

2008-03-08T09:31:00.000-08:00

Author : Lance Winslow
In modern day franchising there are often situations where a franchisee, which is an individual or a franchisee, which is a corporation will wish to sell their rights under the contract to another party. A franchisor has to pay attention to these things to insure that there is no illegal or inadvertent transfer of confidential proprietary information such as secret recipes, operations manuals or marketing methods.Indeed this stands to be reasonable to wish to monitor it, however it is not nearly as easy as it sounds as many deals, appear to be cut and dry or black and white can quickly become rather convoluted. It is so easy to accidentally allow information to slip your grasps and always difficult to control. Then there is the occasional competitor who will attempt to legally attain your secret information thru owning interests in one of your franchised outlets. How do I know, well it happened to me. So, I added this expanded clause to our franchise agreements to prevent this in the future;5.2.4 Conditions to TransferIn connection with any transfer provided for above (which requires Franchisee's consent), the following requirements must be met to the full satisfaction of Franchisor as a condition to any transfer:(a) The proposed transferee or its principals must meet Franchisor's reasonable requirements for experience, net worth and character, as applied by Franchisor on a nondiscriminatory basis in selecting new Franchisees and must have or obtain before transfer all licenses required by law for operation of the Franchised Business.(b) The proposed transferee or its designee must attend and satisfactorily complete Franchisor's initial training.(c) The proposed transferee (and each partner, member or shareholder) must have duly executed an agreement to be bound by, and to assume and perform all the duties of the Franchisee under, the Agreement (including, in the case of such partners, members or shareholders, the covenants not to compete required by Section 3.20).(d) All maintenance, repairs and renovations required to bring the Franchisee's premises into compliance with Franchisor's standards must have been completed. All maintenance, repairs and upgrades required to bring the Franchisee's mobile units and equipment into compliance with Franchisor's standards must have been completed.(e) All monetary obligations of Franchisee under this Franchise Agreement are fully paid and Franchisee and each of its partners, members, shareholders, officers and directors must execute a general release of any and all claims against Franchisor and its affiliates and its predecessor, sister or co-brand companies and their shareholders, officers, directors, employees, agents and their spouses.(f) Franchisee agrees to remain liable for all obligations to Franchisor in connection with the Franchised Business prior to the effective date of the transfer and must execute any and all instruments reasonably requested by Franchisor to evidence such liability.(g) If the transfer results in more than a fifty percent (50%) change in the beneficial ownership of the Franchised Business, then the transferee must execute the then current form of the Franchise Agreement, except that the initial term will be the same as the remaining term of the original Franchise
Agreement.(h) The transfer fee specified in Section 2.4 must have been paid in full.(i) Franchisee must offer the Franchised Business to Franchisor in writing for the right of first purchase. (See Section 5.5 of this Franchise Agreement.)
Before the effective date of a transfer Franchisor approves:(a) Franchisee must agree to remain bound by the covenants in this Franchise
Agreement to not compete against Franchisor and to not disclose confidential information.(b) Franchisee will pay all ascertained or liquidated debts concerning the
Franchise.(c) Franchisee may not be in default under this Franchise Agreement or any other agreement between the parties.(d) Franchisee will pay Franchisor or a registered and approved business broker, which
Franchisor may have at the time of the transfer, a ten (10) percent commission on the gross transfer price (excluding the price of real property), if Franchisor obtains the transferee for Franchisee.
Any transfer by Franchisee must be approved by Franchisor in writing. The transferee must execute the standard form Franchise Agreement then being offered to new System Franchisees and such other ancillary agreements as Franchisor may require for the Franchised Business, which agreements will supersede the original Franchise Agreement in all respects and the terms of which agreements may differ from the terms of this Franchise Agreement; provided, however, that the transferee will not be required to pay the $20,000 Initial Fee and the Marketing Area provided for in this Agreement will remain the same.-- --- ---- ------ ---- --- --If you own a franchised outlet this is something you might consider and it would be smart to talk with an experienced franchise attorney who specializes in franchising to do an audit of how you are legally protecting your proprietary information. Remember in franchising you are forced to deal with humans and it is amazing the types of things they will do to lie, cheat and steal. So consider this in 2006.Lance Winslow - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs/
Keyword : Franchise Agreements and Conditions of Transfer

The Franchise Agreement and Failing On-Going Training

2008-03-08T09:00:00.001-08:00

Author : Lance Winslow
Training is a big part in any large company and nowhere is it more important than any franchise organization, there is a lot at stake. For instance, the brand name of the company, the consistency of the products and services, and of course the success of each individual franchise outlet. A few non-performing franchisees can drag down an entire franchise system in any given marketing region. This will in fact negatively impact other local franchisees.To insure that each franchise operates by the book; the confidential operations manual, training must be thorough and comprehensive. But what if a franchisee fails training or what if they fail ongoing training? This is a key consideration considering the need to protect the integrity of the franchise system and the profitability of all the other franchisees. It is for this reason that the failing of ongoing training needs to be addressed in the franchise agreements. Below is a copy of the clause we used in our franchise agreements;3.6.4 Failing On-Going TrainingFrom time to time Franchisor may provide refresher training programs or seminars and may require that the Franchisee or their managers and crew leaders attend and complete them to Franchisor's exclusive satisfaction. These programs and seminars will be held at locations Franchisor designates. When Franchisor determines that it is in Franchisee's best interest to take additional training courses, Franchisor will notify Franchisee either via the Franchisee Forum intranet system, by e-mail or in writing. Franchisee will have up to six (6) months to schedule this required training. If Franchisee fails to schedule the required training, Franchisee will be notified that Franchisee is in default of this Agreement. Franchisee will then have thirty (30) calendar days to cure this default. If Franchisee fails an on-going training course, Franchisee may be deemed in default and Franchisee will have thirty (30) calendar days to cure this default by re-taking and passing the required course or courses.-- -- --- --- -- --All franchisee companies need to address this and the needy expert legal counsel and an experienced franchise attorney to help them strategize the best way to protect the franchise company in the event a franchisee fails training. Consider this in 2006.Lance Winslow - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs/
Keyword : Franchise Agreement, Failing On-Going Training

The Future of Legal Services: Unbundled Services

2008-03-08T08:31:00.001-08:00

Author : Howard Iken
There is a new concept in the legal industry called unbundled services. It is largely unknown by lawyers. But it has appeared in the attorney-ethical rules of many states. Most consumers have never heard of it. Most lawyers still have no idea of what it means. But the influence of this concept may change the future of legal services.To understand the concept of unbundled services, one must have an understanding of the traditional ways attorneys handle representation. For most of history an attorney began representation at the beginning of a case. Representation didn't end until the end of the case. People needing legal services had two choices: either pay an attorney a fee for the entire case, or go it alone. There was no in-between. It was almost unthinkable for an attorney to provide help filling out one form or attending one hearing. It was all or nothing. There was nothing wrong with this system for those with the substantial assets needed to pay an attorney. But people that did not have much money were out of luck.Many local state bar associations recognized this problem. The issue was recently studied by the American Bar Association. A new concept was borne out of these studies – unbundled services. The basic premise was that some legal advice was better than no legal advice. Unbundled services recognized the reality of many consumers – that attorney fees exceeded the financial capability of many. Unbundled services solved this problem. This concept makes it acceptable for an attorney to represent a client for one small part of their case – without violating ethical rules. Many states have started to adopt rules recognizing the existence of unbundled services.The most promising application is for family law services such as divorce, child custody, support, and property distribution. The reason: more people attempt to handle their own family law cases than any other area of law. And the courts are increasing frustrated and bogged down with self-represented divorce parties. The need for flexibility and creativity in legal service is the most evident in family law cases.Unfortunately, attorneys have been slow to offer unbundled services. They are either not aware of this new trend or have declined to change their service offerings. The result: over three quarters of family law cases involve people that have not hired an attorney. There are strong advantages for attorneys that offer unbundled services: a larger potential customer base, less collection problems, and the satisfaction of helping lower income clients.If you cannot afford an attorney, consider searching for an attorney that will offer different services on an "a la cart" basis. This can include preparing the initial divorce documents, attending one hearing, or participating in mediation. Do it yourselfers can also enlist the help of an attorney to prep for their final hearing. The era of unbundled services has arrived and will ultimately empower the consumer and increase access to the court system.Copyright 2006 The Divorce Center P.A.Divorce Attorney Howard Iken has a rapidly growing divorce practice in the Tampa Bay area of Florida. He can be reached at 1-888-469-3486. More information on divorce can be found at Tampa Divorce AttorneyAn example of unbundled services can be found at Tampa Divorce Fees
Keyword : tampa divorce, tampa divorce attorney, tampa divorce lawyer, hillsborough county divorce, hillsborou

What Happens If The Police Don't Read Me My Miranda Rights?

2008-03-08T08:00:00.001-08:00

Author : David Quinn
I get a lot of questions about Miranda Rights, and several "what if" scenarios. People always send us questions to our Ask-A-Cop section concerning these, so I figured I'd give a little information on it. However, since I'm not in the business of helping people "get off," or "beat the system," I've decided to keep it somewhat general.Miranda Rights or Miranda Warnings, the legal terms that came from the case in Miranda v. Arizona, instructs officers to allow a person to remain silent when they are accused of a crime. There are specifics as to when to give it, when not to, and when its not necessary.It started when defense attorneys began challenging their clients statements that were made to police while in custody. In the past, police had no guidelines from the court as to how to obtain these statements, and as a result, some innocent people were making statements out of frustration, i.e. wanting to go home, hours of interrogation, etc. If the person admitted to a crime, it was a done deal. Their statements were used against them. Now however, courts have held that prosecutors cannot use statements resulting from custodial interrogation of defendants unless they (the police, prosecutor) can demonstrate the use of procedural safeguards "effective to secure the privilege against self-incrimination."As a result, police officers now have to read you your rights when wanting to use your statements against you. However, on the other side of the coin, there are several loop holes where police don't have to read you your rights. In these areas, you are actually obligated to cooperate with police, or you could face more charges.The Miranda Rights or Miranda Warnings are not word for word from state to state. However, their meanings are. Most would read as follows:1. You have the right to remain silent, do you understand this?2. Anything you do say may be used against you in a court of law. Do you understand this?3. You have the right to consult an attorney before speaking to the police and to have an attorney present during that questioning. Do you understand this?4. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you before any questioning. Do you understand this?5. If you decide to answer questions now without an attorney present you will still have the right to stop the interview at any time. Do you understand this?6. Knowing and understanding your rights as I have just explained them to you, are you willing to talk to me and answer my questions without an attorney present?You can get much more information at http://www.realpolice.net and post your question in our Ask-A-Cop section.
Keyword : miranda rights,miranda warnings,fighiting a ticket,police officer,attorney,law

Ortho Evra Lawsuit & Ortho Evra Birth Control Patch Lawyers for Side Effects

2008-03-08T07:31:00.001-08:00

Author : Todd Going
Women trust pharmaceutical companies to protect their health when they choose birth control medications. However, when the Ortho Evra Transdermal Birth Control patch was linked to potentially deadly blood clots, this trust was shattered for nearly one million women across the country.When Ortho Evra was introduced into the market in 2001, it was hailed as a revolution in birth control that allowed women to manage their fertility without having to rely on a once daily pill or painful injection of hormones. Ortho Evra quickly climbed in popularity, and by 2006 nearly four million women have used the patch at some point.The Ortho Evra patch is applied directly to the skin of the hips, buttocks, or thigh, where it delivers estrogen over an extended period of time. Estrogen helps prevent ovulation, but the Ortho Evra patch delivers 60% more estrogen than the conventional pill. Heat from the body causes the patch to release a specific amount of the drug, but if transdermal patches have been known to fail and deliver too much of a drug too quickly, often with devastating consequences.Unfortunately, the Ortho Evra patch suffered from such a defect, and caused a number of women to suffer blood clot-related trauma. Although birth control pills have been known to contribute to the formation of blood clots, studies show that Ortho Evra triples the rates of these potentially fatal medical emergencies.The first fatal incident that could be directly attributed to the patch was a student in New York who collapsed on a subway station in 2005. Tests revealed a blood clot in her leg migrated into her lung, and likely caused a pulmonary embolism. Subsequent autopsies determined that the fatal clot was caused by the Ortho Evra Patch. Ortho Evra is frequently marketed as an equally safe alternative to the daily birth control pill, but more convenient as it only needs to be applied once a week.By the time the FDA discovered the dangers of the Ortho Evra Transdermal Birth Control Patch it had allegedly destroyed the lives of 17 women between 17 and 30 that suffered fatal heart attacks, blood clots and strokes.Lawyers representing the women injured or killed by the patch have pressed a dozen lawsuits against Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical, a subsidiary company of Johnson & Johnson. Ortho-McNeil has settled these cases for millions of dollars, and as of April 9, 2006, there are more that 100 more lawsuits still pending.To learn more about Ortho Evra birth control patch side effects and hiring an Ortho Evra lawyer, please visit our website at http://www.resource4orthoevrainfo.com/

This article may be freely reprinted as long as this resource box is included and all links stay intact as hyperlinks.
Keyword : ortho evra birth control patch lawyer lawsuit litigation

How to Dress for Court

2008-03-08T07:00:00.001-08:00

Author : Lisbeth McCarty
I had appeared in court for several years as an attorney before I was ever actually one of the parties in a lawsuit. I always "dressed for success," wearing the de riguer dark skirted suit with a beige blouse or some variation thereof, with my hair slicked back in a bun. All I had to do was look around to see that this was what was expeted of a woman attorney, as far as attire goes.I never gave the slightest thought to the clothes being worn by the people I represented. This was mainly for a good reason -- I was concentrating on the legal issues of the case at hand. Sometimes, though, I would be so involved in the law that I forgot about the actual people I was representing.After a few years of practice, however, my marriage disintegrated and I was one of the parties in a divorce. This event, of course, was extremely stressful, but being on the non-lawyer side of the bar also caused me to think about "going-to-court" clothes.A suit seemed too drastic -- too lawyerly. Jeans or a throw-on dress was definitely too casual. I finally settled on what I can define only as a "church" outfit, a simple skirt and blouse which would be jsut as appropriate for Sunday school as it was for court.I noticed that my lawyer never mentioned clothing to me in any way. I realized that if the lawyer had, I'd have that stress out of the way. Instead, I had to figure it out all on my own.I began to think about some of my clients, who were not well-educated and probably did not have a wide selection of clothing from which to choose. I learned that my client's stress may be eased if we discuss proper court attire for a plaintiff/defendant.Since that time, I have let my clients know that they should dress nicely for court, further describing the clothing as "church" wear. These clients have thanked me for informing them about how to appear in court.If my clients do not have and cannot afford such attire, I even loan them some of my clothes or take them shopping. This has had a tremendous effect on my clients, and some of them had told me that this helps them tremendously, as they now no longer worry about "looking stupid" in court.In conclusion, if you are about to attend a court hearing, even though you are not there as part of a fashion show or to be criticized in any way for your apparel, clothes really do make the man. Or the woman.B.A. in Journalism, Professional Writing, 1980, University of Oklahoma;
J.D. in Law, 1984, University of Oklahoma, top 10 percent of class;
More than 20 years experience in writing, editing
Appellate Public Defender, 1985 to present (duties include brief-writing and editing the work of others).
Keyword : court, apparel, clothing, wear, attorney, dress