Cheating and Infidelity Statistics: Are Men Cheating More Than Women?

Recent studies reveal that 45-55% of married women and 50-60% of married men engage in extramarital sex at some time or another during their relationship. Do these infidelity statistics seem a bit startling? What these findings suggest is that approximately one half of all married men and women do seek intimacy outside of their committed relationships. But what does this really mean and why are the number of men and women having extramarital affairs so high?

This may come as a complete surprise, but most extramarital affairs are not about sex. What then,is the main factor that causes infidelity? One should pay attention to the reason most people find intimacy with someone outside of their marriage is because of their emotional needs are not being met. Yes, it is true in most cases of infidelity and about wanting to feel emotionally connected to someone.

One should realize that suggestions may not be particularly popular, especially among men and women who are on the receiving end of the infidelity. Obviously, finding out that your spouse or partner has cheated on you is shocking and painful. Realizing that you are just another number that adds to the infidelity statistic is not something you would like to flaunt.

The reality is that there are a lot of unsatisfying and empty relationships out there, but however, the reason why infidelity statistics are as high as they are is because people place a higher value on their careers, children, friends or hobbies and not on their relationships with their partners. Think about it, when you neglect any of these areas, it is just a matter of time before they deteriorate and ultimately lead to its untimely death. The failure in the relationship becomes imminent..The bottom line is that if you want to avoid becoming yet another case that adds to the infidelity statistic, then you must nurture and prioritize your relationship with your spouse or partner. As you may have already figured out, unlike planes, relationships cannot be maintained on "auto-pilot".

According to the current infidelity statistics 60% of men and 40% of women are involved in extramarital affair. These figures are even more drastic when the total numbers of marriages are considered. Because it is less likely that all the men and women having extramarital affairs do happen to be married to each other. At least half of the women having affairs are married to men are not included in the 60% of men having affairs, then at least one partner will have an affair in about 80% of all marriages. With this study you can see that many marriages are getting affected and it is unreasonable to think affairs are due to the failures and shortcomings of individual husbands or wives. Leave alone the entire world, only in U S, 17% of divorces are caused by unknown misconceptions such as infidelity. There exists even strong evidence, which proves that there is a high correlation between on-line infidelity and subsequent real-time sexual affairs. Check out this link for the full story. http://www.womansavers.com

Stephany Alexander is the founder of http://www.WomanSavers.com the World's Largest Database Rating Men. She has been quoted on CNN, Fox Nationwide, the New York Times, and more. She has created over 10 women's comedy cartoon ecards, 6 women's online games. She has been guest on hundreds of radio shows. For more information or to interview, please email womansavers@womansavers.comBurgette Blog70470
Ceri Blog64903

Home Theatre Speakers - What You Need To Know

Speaker types

There are four basic home theater speaker categories: towers, satellites, subwoofers, and center channels. A tower speaker is a tall, freestanding model capable of reproducing a full range of sound. Satellites, which can be used as both front or rear-channel (surround) speakers, are small, bass-limited models designed to be paired with a subwoofer - a dedicated speaker for reproducing both bass and the low-frequency-effects channel in Dolby Digital and DTS soundtracks. And a center channel speaker is a horizontally oriented satellite that's designed to reproduce dialog.

Freestanding vs. on-wall

In the past, home theater speakers were usually installed alongside big-screen TVs - either freestanding or placed on top of speaker stands. But many new models are on-wall designs that come with wall-mounting hardware. One advantage to these kinds of speakers is that they get positioned on walls where they don't take up any room space. A second advantage is that their slim, wall hugging design nicely complements flat-panel plasma and LCD TVs.

Do you really need a center channel?

With some systems - especially those built around a large, slim rear-projection TV - finding a place to put the center channel speaker can be a problem. Although you can get by without using one, it's not recommended - center channel speakers are specifically designed to reproduce voices. You'll find that movie dialog will sound much clearer when you use them. So instead of bypassing the center speaker or using the TV's built-in speakers as a center channel substitute (a terrible option, since the tonal balance of your TV's speakers isn't likely to match that of your other speakers), look for an alternative mounting method. Speaker wall mounts make a fine option, especially with flat-panel TVs. Most TV stands also include storage shelves that can hold a small center channel speaker.

Speaker connections. A variety of connectors can be found on the back of speakers.

A spring-clip connector is a plastic, spring-loaded clamp that's usually found on the back of inexpensive speakers. The connection provided by spring clips isn't as secure as other types, and they can only accept bare speaker wire.

Binding posts are a step-up connection option found on high-quality speakers. There are two types of binding posts: regular and five-way. Regular types accept both banana plug and spade-lug connectors on speaker cables. The connection they provide is very secure, and in some cases the connector is also gold-plated to prevent oxidation - a condition that can potentially degrade performance. And five-way binding posts, which accept bare wire and pin-type connectors in addition to banana plugs and spade lugs, offer even more hookup flexibility than regular types.

In-wall and in-ceiling speaker + and

For those who prefer to keep their audio/video equipment out of sight, in-wall and in-ceiling speakers make a great alternative to regular models. Although the sound quality of in-wall and in-ceiling models is generally a notch below that of regular speakers, they can be mounted inside of cutout cavities in the walls or ceiling of your room where they won't take up any space. Both types are also designed to contain vibrations within the cabinet, so you won't have to worry about rattling the walls during action movies. Installation of in-wall and in-ceiling speakers involves running wires through the walls and/or ceiling of your home. If you're an experienced DIY type, you might be up to that task, but for most people it's best left to a custom installer.

Surround speaker considerations: direct-radiating, dipolar, and bipolar There are several options to consider when choosing surround sound speakers for your system.

Direct-radiating models fire sound directly out from the speaker's front baffle toward the listener's ears. These are a good all-purpose surround sound speaker choice since their clear, focused dispersion pattern can accurately convey the directional sound effect pans in DVD soundtracks.

Dipolar models radiate sound from both the speaker's back and front, with the opposing driver sets wired out-of-phase with each other. This design offers a more diffuse, spacious sound than a direct-radiating model while retaining some of the latter's focused dispersion characteristics. (Dipolar models are favored for THX-certified designs specifically because of their diffuse sound, which more accurately resembles what you'd hear in a real movie theater.)

Bipolar models also radiate sound from the front and back, except that in this case both sets of drivers are wired in-phase with one another. This design allows a bipolar speaker to provide the best of both worlds: a direct-radiator's clarity and focus, and a dipole's spaciousness.

What is frequency response, and what should I look for?

The range of audio frequencies that a speaker can reproduce is known as its frequency response. Human hearing extends from 20 Hz to 20 kHz (20,000 Hz) - a span that few models are able to cover fully. The bass frequencies at the bottom of the range (approximately 20-120 Hz) are the most difficult for a speaker to cover. Satellites don't attempt it at all, but instead pass the task off to a subwoofer - a dedicated bass speaker with drivers large enough to move the massive quantity of air needed to reproduce low frequencies. Since tower speakers usually contain one or more woofers, they generally deliver decent bass. But if you're shopping for tower speakers - especially if you plan to use one in a system where there's no subwoofer - make a point of checking the low end of its frequency response specification. And remember that not all measurements are the same. For example, the bass response of a speaker spec'd at 6 dB at 40 Hz probably won't sound as full as one that measures 3 dB at 40 Hz.

Speaker impedance and selection

Most new speakers are designed to be compatible with a wide range of receivers and audio amplifiers, so specifications like impedance-the measure of a speaker's resistance to electrical power flowing through it as specified in Ohms-generally aren't things you need to worry too much about. But what you should know is that an amplifier has to work harder to drive a speaker with a lower impedance rating than one with a higher rating. Say that your receiver is rated to deliver 100 watts into an 8-ohm load. If your speakers have an 8-Ohm impedance spec, then you aren't likely to encounter any problems. But if your speakers' specified impedance is 4 ohms or less, the chances for that same receiver to overheat and shut down will be increased.

Placement: the final frontier

Many people tend to be casual about where they put their speakers; more often than not, they get shoved into any old space where it's convenient. But speaker placement becomes crucial when setting up a home theater system. You'll want the positioning of surround sound effects in your room to correspond to what's happening on screen, and that will only happen if speakers are set up properly.

Front channel towers or satellite models on stands should ideally be placed equidistant from the TV's sides and about three feet out from the front wall. This setup will heighten imaging and reduce any sound-muddying room reinforcement effects. And your subwoofer should be pushed into a corner of the room to permit the sound-reinforcing effect of adjacent walls to strengthen the bass. While placement guidelines for surround speakers are less strict than those for front speakers, installing them in a high position at the sides and slightly behind the listening area will usually enhance surround sound envelopment.

Microtek Lab Inc. is a consumer electronics company focused on scanners, plasma and lcd televisions, digital projectors, lcd monitors, digital cameras, home theatre equipment, and accessories. You can view their online store at http://store.microtek.com Use of this article is permitted provided that the article is used in its entirety.Biomechanics Blog6275
Cepero Blog45971

Does Being a Nice Guy Get You More Dates?

The answer to this question should be a resounding 'Yes' but unfortunately when you are working with human emotions, there's no sure thing and this is the case when it comes to the way women think about nice guys! Nice guys are attractive to many women, but whether they get more dates than those guys who aren't so nice is relative to the amount of women they are interested in and want to date. Although there are women who find nice guys sexy, there are also those women who think that a nice guy must by definition be boring!

Nice guys aren't necessarily boring however. Being polite and caring about others isn't boring - it may be a little outdated in a society where the survival of the fittest and those who dare win are the cultural norms, but that doesn't make it boring. What a nice guy does mean is that the women they date should find that they are never stood up, they are never cheated on and that they are secure in their relationships. These three things are often missing from relationships with guys who walk on the dangerous side of life.

Women who are looking for adventure won't be interested in 'nice guys'. They want guys who are prepared to make them feel that they are a little wild rather than like a princess! The nice guy however wins in the long run because when it comes to settling down most women would choose a nice guy over a wild one for their life partner - realizing that this is the guy who will bring them both emotional and financial security.

Just as nice girls have a tendency to attract wild guys who will break their hearts, there are many nice guys who can attest to the fact that wild girls are also out there looking to mess with the emotions of a nice guy. There are also a number of ex nice guys out there who changed their persona having been messed around by girls who abused their nice guy image. There's a lot of truth in the old clich about opposites attracting - and it's certainly true in the case of nice guys and wild girls (as well as vice versa), at least in short term relationships.

Nice guys may not always get more dates than their wilder counterparts, but they are more likely to end up in more permanent relationships which is with a either a nice girl or a wild girl they have tamed! If you're a nice guy, and you feel that it's not working for you, hang in there - hang in there, the odds are you'll still come out a winner!

Nicole Love- Get access to a growing collection of dating and seduction tips for men at http://dating-and-seduction-tips.blogspot.com . You will also find free downloads and incredible offers.Ananda Blog28173
Babar Blog61058

Internet Marketing Strategy Planning - The Eight Steps Formula

Before you decide what to sell on the internet. You have to develop an Internet Marketing Strategy that is the essential part of your online success on the Internet.

You have to take into consideration the following:

1. Find a large and easy to reach niche market
2. Find a Product or Service the niche market demands for!
3. Setup your website
4. Have a great sales copy (your 24/7 sales man)
5. Create an opt-in page to collect email address
6. Have a great sales process
7. Make your website scalable and search engine friendly
8. Backend, backend and backend

Each step plays an important to your success in your Internet Marketing Strategy Planning. If even one step is miss out you will not be able to see the results you would like to see as each step is equally important to each other.

1. Find a large and easy to reach niche market

Your first step in your Internet Marketing Strategy planning requires you to do your research and find a large and easy to reach niche market to market your product. What you can do from here is that you go to Free Keywords tools and search for niche keywords that have high click through and low competitions.

Example the keyword Dog Food For Sale, when you search that on Google there are actually 5,650,000 which is seriously not a lot of competition but you also have to check is there a demand for it by using tools from www.seobook.com to look at the KEI rate. The higher the KEI rate the better the keyword.

2. Find a Product or Service the niche market demands for!

After you have found 2 or 3 keywords that you would like to target on, you would want to find products that will serve the market that demands for it.

Example like the keyword Dog Food For Sale, you would not want to promote Cat Food as it is totally not related to the topic you want to promote about. So find related products like an eBook where to find great sale for dog food or dog products that dogs like to eat.

3. Setup your website

After you have decided what product or service you want to sell online, you would want to setup a website to promote your product. The best way to do it is by creating a Blog talking nothing but Dog Food that are for Sale. Because Google and Yahoo search engine loves Blogs so much that you virtually get listed just 24 hours upon updating compared to a normal website, which will take at least a few weeks to be cached into the search engine.

4. Have a great sales copy (your 24/7 sales man)

Do not be mistaken, sales copy is not the sale. A sales copy is a page with descriptions and details to promote your product on your website. When I first heard of this term sales copy I was totally stunted how important it was to have a sales copy.

Depending how good your copy writing skills are, you can get people to write your sales copy or simply teach yourself to write one. If you can try to write it yourself as copy writing is a very good skill to learn especially when you are an Internet Marketer who plans Internet Marketing Strategy.

5. Create an opt-in page to collect email address

This is another important step that many do not have and its the most important. Why? It is because they fail to collect email address from their website. With the email address you can design out your sales process in the next step which I will explain further.

6. Have a great sales process

With your opt-in page in place, you can used the captured email address and name to follow up with people who are interested to know more about what you are promoting in your opt-in page. This way build you list of email list and keep sent them information or promotion products to sell those products again in the future.

7. Make your website scalable and search engine friendly

With all that done, you would now need to read up on Search Engine Optimization. Practicing this will allow search engines like Yahoo and Google to spider your website easily. The good thing about Blogs is that you can ping the search engines to spider your site easily and you can listed very quickly within 24 hours.

8. Backend, backend and backend

Upon completion of all 7 steps, you just need to keep on sent backend information to your list from your opt-in emails that you receive and keep on driving traffic your opt-in page to get more email address to sent out promotion to your customers.

If you constantly follow these 8 steps formula for your Internet Marketing Strategy Plan, you will see great massive results after 3 months upon you have setup. So do the math and start planning your Internet Marketing Strategy today!

Alvin Phang is the owner of http://www.GatherSuccess.com . Get the right Internet Marketing Strategy for your Internet Business with our free resource of Internet Marketing Strategy Planning, Tips, Tutorials, Videos, Reviews and click the following link for more http://www.gathersuccess.com.Brade Blog62599
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Beth Orton Comfort Of Strangers Pop Music CD Review

Comfort Of Strangers is the latest Pop CD put out by the highly talented Beth Orton who once again has delivered a brilliant collection of tracks. I'm confident Beth Orton fans, and Pop fans alike will be pleased with this one.

I wish it weren,t the case but, it's not everyday that I get a CD from an artist that I can just pop in and comfortably listen to from beginning to end. There is usually a song or two that I just can't force myself to get through. Not at all the case with Comfort Of Strangers. Every track is enjoyable and was pretty easy for me to listen to from start to finish.

Comfort Of Strangers is a pleasantly varied, mix of 14 tracks that are very well written songs by this clearly outstanding artist. Most of the songs display a lot of the kind emotion that makes for a really great listen. Seemingly drawing from what I can only imagine are her own personal experiences. At different points touching on the most real emotions like love, heartbreak, pain, failed relationships and unattainable romance. They're all here.

One of the refreshingly nice things about this CD is the way all of the participating artists seem to be really enjoying themselves. Combine that with the overall presentation and you've got one of Beth Orton's most impressive releases ever.

This is a first rate CD, delivering a little something for everyone. I give it my highest recommendation. It's quite simply great listening. A must buy if you're even mildly into Pop music.

If you're a Beth Orton fan this is a CD your collection flat cannot be without. In fact, this is one of those CDs that you don't even have to be a fan of Orton, or even Pop to know is good. It's just good music. Period.

While this entire album is really very good the truly standout tunes are track 3 - Heartland Truckstop, track 5 - Comfort Of Strangers, and track 10 - Safe In Your Arms.

My SmoothLee Bonus Pick, and the one that got Sore [...as in "Stuck On REpeat"] is track 6 - Shadow Of A Doubt. Outstanding!

Comfort Of Strangers Release Notes:

Beth Orton originally released Comfort Of Strangers on Feb 7, 2006 on the Astralwerks label.

CD Track List Follows:

1. Worms 2. Countenance 3. Heartland Truckstop 4. Rectify 5. Comfort Of Strangers 6. Shadow Of A Doubt 7. Conceived 8. Absinthe 9. A Place Aside 10. Safe In Your Arms 11. Shopping Trolley 12. Feral 13. Heart Of Soul 14. Pieces Of Sky

Personnel: Beth Orton; TJ Doherty, Tim B.. Recording information: Sear Sound Studio, New York, New York (2005).

Clyde Lee Dennis a life long music enthusiast, writes CD reviews and is also the Real Estate Editor at http://Tampa.eNewsBriefs.com covering topics like Tampa Florida Real Estate and more. Visit Tampa eNewsBriefs for the latest Tampa NewsAnantha Blog48468
Algimantas Blog85084

The Inventors of Modern Soccer - English Soccer History

English Soccer History Early Days

It's hard to determine exactly how soccer became so popular in England in the 19th century, but the truth is that in the mid 19th century, almost every major town had a semi-professional soccer team. These teams were usually associations of workers from the same factory or institution or simply students at a local University.

Matches between those teams were played occasionally, with little to no prize, but only for competition's sake. However, these matches were played without any rules or a referee and as soccer isn't necessarily a sport that's completely clean of violence, all it took was a harsh tackle or an argument about a particular rule to start a bloody fight between the two teams and their supporters.

But the year 1863 marked an extremely important chapter in English soccer history, as several soccer clubs from all over the country (prominently from London) met up in the English capital and set up a sort of "soccer constitution" called the Laws of the Game (a modified version of the original rules are still in effect today and are still called as such).

That was also the birth certificate of the Football Association, or simply FA that is still ruling over English soccer nowadays and had a tremendous importance throughout the history of soccer in England and the way it evolved.

English Soccer History Important Milestones

With England being rightfully considered the inventors of modern soccer, one would expect them to be amongst the most successful national squads in the World. However, despite having some world class soccer players throughout time and despite always being favorites for the competitions they start in, the English national squad only achieved few important milestones throughout the entire soccer history in England.

The apogee of English soccer and the most important chapter ever to be written in the entire history of soccer in England was definitely the successful World Cup run in 1966, a competition that was held on English ground, giving them the advantage to grasp their long-awaited trophy.

The 1966 team, captained by legendary Bobby Moore and with other key components such as Jackie Charlton or Geoff Hurst playing regularly, remains the best national squad in the entire English soccer history, especially since their success has not been equaled ever since.

English Soccer History Modern Era

England is still a top team in Europe and throughout the World and has some players that are considered having world class quality, but the national team still has moderate success, despite being star-studded.

Recently, the form of English clubs overshadowed the poor performance of the national team, as Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool or Arsenal continue to be heavy contenders for each year's European Champion's League, the most prestigious club competition in the World.

Despite being happy with the respect English clubs impose in Europe, fans are still yearning for that long awaited European or World Cup which could mark a new important chapter in the English soccer history.

Niv Orlian is the author and the owner of http://www.soccer-fans-info.com a website that provides information on various topics related to soccer such as the history of soccer, rules, famous soccer players, real time news, statistics, and training guides.Aitsung Blog13030
Ayodele Blog22845

Saint Croix: Marvel In The Colors Of The Caribbean

Beautiful Saint Croix Island, located in the tropical Caribbean Sea just 1,200 miles off the Miami coast, is the largest land body in the United States Virgin Islands. Long, peaceful beaches, sugar and rum plantations shape the landscape. Homes, historic churches, commercial ports and plantations boast architecture dating as far back as the early eighteenth and nineteenth century and reflecting Spanish, Dutch, French, Danish, British, Knights of Malta and American influences. Thriving sugar crops gave way to tourism in the late 1960s as the islands primary source of income. So youre sure to be treated like royalty.

When visiting Saint Croix, youll discover a wealth of indoor and outdoor activities from which to plan your days around. Outdoor adventures abound, with scuba diving along 702 acres of vibrant coral reefs, horseback riding across lush, green hills and pastures, snorkeling among underwater trails, sport-fishing, bicycle riding, hiking and island exploration. From wide streets to haunted plantation ruins, this enchanting island is a perfect vacation get-away.

Golf is another popular sport, with several notable courses including the award-winning Carambola Golf Club which hosts the annual LPGA tournament and has received Golf magazines prestigious gold medal.

Nightlife abounds both at island casinos and clubs, and at seasonal local events. Many vacationers schedule their trip around Jump Up, a thrilling block party ideal for all age groups. Watch calypso and youth bands decorate the night, while streets are blocked from regular traffic. Enjoy face painting and watch the tall Mocko Jumbies, elaborately costumed characters on stilts, dancing and parading down the streets.

Indoors, youll find the thrill of casinos, duty-free shopping and fine dining. Island cuisine is influenced by St. Croixs oldest crops, from okra to cabbage and corn. Food fair also includes succulent seafood, lobster, conch fritters, burgers, barbeque delicacies and savory mango salsa sauce. Then give your meal the perfect island twist with a Cruzan Rum infused Calypso Daiquiri.

Island tours and trails help you explore all of the islands beauty, attractions and beaches, as viewed through local eyes. When visiting, discover the natural beauty by air, open-air jeep, open-air bus, four-wheeler or foot. Youll gain a different perspective than you would staying poolside in your hotel or resort.

Purchased by the United States in 1917, visitors dont need a passport to enter. However you do need some form of identification which may include a valid passport, government issued ID card or drivers license plus an original birth certificate.

Discover Saint Croix today by booking your travel vacation.

By Clinton Douglas IV of http://www.vasrue.com/ who provides free, quality articles for your newsletter, website or publication on topics such as Saint Croix: http://www.vasrue.com/ vacations. Please link to this site when using this article.Anbin Blog90598
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Tips To Create Good Domain Name

Domain name is an identity for a website. It is similar to fingerprint as identity for people. Two or more web sites can not share one same domain name. The domain name must be different at least different in the extension. The important for domain name is unique, memorable, simple, alphabet, extension, dash, global, sound, nature activity and intuition.

Good domain name criteria is it must be unique. It is not be similar to other popular domain name by adding one or more alphabets to it. The unique domain name must be different from others.

Good domain name is also must be memorable. People can remember it because it is unique. Therefore they will visit the web site again because they remember the web site name. It will attract more unique visitors to the website. Higher visitor means higher potential to sell product or service.

Shorter domain name means better domain name. It is easier to be remembered and written. The value is higher. Good domain normally has 10 or less alphabets. We observe most popular domain name have less than 10 alphabets. Longer domain name can cause the domain name is typed wrongly. As the result the actual wanted website can not be reached.

Good domain name is also normally having repeated alphabets. This will help the domain name become unique and more memorable. Most popular websites use this tip for their domain name.

Domain name with extension com is more popular and familiar compared to other extension. People who want to buy domain name normally prefer to use com extension as first choice. Only there is no com extension, they will search other extensions or other domain names. People also have tendency to type com if they forget the actual extension. In simple word domain name with com extension have highest value compared to other domain name extension.

Good domain name do not containing dash. Domain name with dash seems it is less interested compared domain name without dash. Domain name containing number also is seems less interested. We can observe the country and people name never use dash or number. Otherwise, it become something lack to the name.

Good domain name must appropriates with the business or activity operated. Good general domain name means it can be used for any kind of business and activity. Anyway it is better if the domain name match the business or activity operated. To practice business or activity differently or oppositely is not good even have a good domain name.

Good domain name must be global name. People can accept it as global name rather than local name only. It will attract more visitors to the website. However global name is not so important anymore if focus for local visitors only.

Good domain name must have good sound. It is easy to be called and spelt. People have tendency to visit the website that the domain name sound is good.

Above explanation are tips how to create domain names. Another important factor is we must believe our intuition. Normally our intuition is correct. If our intuition says the domain name is good, do not doubt and take it immediately before other people take it. To get good institution, we must always in positive life and mind.

Alias Bohari is founder of Goldenia.com. The website specializes to sell selective best domain name. You are invited to see the best domain name at http://www.godenia.com.Camie Blog94784
Bababunmi Blog25637

Explore Your Creativity With A Degree In Video Game Design

Video games have exploded in popularity, thanks to our high paced and pressurized world crunching down on individuals. People need a break from reality and video games provide that venue of escapism, and businesses have definitely gotten the message loud and clear. Developing new games is a fierce industry and companies need people who can always bring on better games that stimulate all the senses at once. But how can you get into this rising segment and turn your interests in computers into something that's a lucrative, fun career full of opportunity?

A degree in video game design is the training you need to break into a market where you can create fantastical worlds or develop settings that are so realistic, you can almost touch them. Individuals are demanding more and more from software companies, and only the top quality games will succeed in today's competitive world. Investing your talents in a solid education that will give you the skills and know how to create high tech video games is a wise choice. The job opportunities will never peter out or become saturated, thanks to new technology that's always being put into the market, and you can get into the gaming craze by getting the best training possible to send you into an amazing career.

You'll have the chance to use your own imagination to create great characters that become popular household names. Remember Mario and Luigi? Well, those two characters were created by people with video game design skills and they earned their makers millions of dollars. What about Yoshi? The little dinosaur is another character created by someone with video game design skills that has made someone rich and famous. Why can't that person who develops the next popular, fun character be you? Online gaming is another venue that has become a multi-million dollar industry and all you have to do is look up World of Warcraft to see how many people are hooked on video games, making the market a rich one for job opportunities.

So what's involved in video game design? Educational facilities will provide you with artistic training to help you create visual images that snag people's interest and keep them gaming, as well as the know how to apply that to animation and 3D modelling. Story development is a must, and you'll be able to think up new ways of challenging people with tricks and traps or enemies to battle to become heroes and earn glorious rewards and treasures. Not only that, those who offer degrees in video game design will help you to put together a profile that will make you an attractive asset to software companies looking for talented 3D artists and gaming developers.

One thing is for sure: Without a degree in video game design, the competition to break into the industry is so stiff that you'll never be able to get ahead. Great ideas and a creative imagination isn't all it takes to open fantastic opportunities and set you into an amazing career. Top quality skills and training that keep you on top of the game and get you that perfect job are the only way to go about finding your place in the lucrative industry of video games. You'll learn the practical side of design and animation to be able to develop games that bring in sales for businesses and earn the skills you need to be head hunted by companies. More than that, obtaining your degree in video game design won't just be an important investment and career choice, it'll also be a blast of fun as you expand your horizons and creativity, learning to think outside the box and come up with new, exciting worlds and characters.

Andy West is a freelance writer for Virginia College. Virginia College offers a professional Video Game Design program. Please visit Virginia College at http://www.vc.edu/site/program.cfm?programID=63 to learn more about earning a degree in animation and game design.Algimantas Blog33062
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69% Of Class Of 2006 Pass Both Portions Of State-Mandated Exit Exam In Los Angeles Schools

Los Angeles schools announced the results of the 2004-2005 school year, state-mandated California High School Exit Exam. Of the students slated to graduate in 2006, 69 percent (more than two thirds) of the class passed both the English language arts and the mathematics portions of the exam. Of the remaining 31 percent of the Class of 2006 students (12th graders):

Fifteen percent (approximately 5,500 students) must pass both the English language arts and the mathematics portions,

Ten percent (3,700) must pass the mathematics portion, and

Six percent (2,000) must pass the English language arts portion.

State law now requires all students to pass both portions of the exit exam in order to graduate from high school and receive a diploma. Students begin taking the exam in the spring of their 10th grade year. If they do not pass one or both portions of the exam, they have the opportunity to retest in both 11th and 12th grades. Los Angeles schools Class of 2006 was the first graduating class required to pass both portions of the exam in order to graduate.

The excellent results of the 2004-5 testing is the direct result of focused instruction and successful intervention, and demonstrates that every student is capable of passing the exam. These intense efforts on the part of Los Angeles schools educators were specifically designed to assist students with coursework directly connected to the exit exams.

In the 2004-5 school year, Los Angeles schools developed intervention strategies for students having problems passing the exam. The strategies introduced small learning communities and supported the core curriculum. Personalized teaching and learning approaches were developed for each student, such as an outreach program and intervention on an individual basis. The Los Angeles schools further made attendance at exit exam preparation classes mandatory for students who had yet to pass one or both test portions. These classes met outside of the normal school day and were provided free of charge to the students through the districts Beyond the Bell, a branch of Los Angeles schools that oversees all student extended day programs.

These combined efforts have had a direct and significant impact upon the graduation rate at Los Angeles schools, as proven not only by the Class of 2006 test results but those for the Class of 2007, as well. When the Class of 2006 was in 10th grade, the students had a first-time pass rate of 60 percent in English language arts and 58 percent in mathematics. The Class of 2007, when in 10th grade, surpassed these first-time pass results by 66 percent in English language arts and 59 percent in mathematics a significant increase in scholastic achievement.

These results clearly demonstrate that the dropout rate can be turned around, which is just one of the many student achievement goals of Los Angeles schools. The district continues to aggressively focus upon the development of rigorous curriculum for its middle and senior high schools. Los Angeles schools recognize and the exit exam results underscore the importance of improved high school instruction, which can directly impact higher graduation rates and allow students to matriculate and move on to viable options in their adult lives.

Patricia Hawke is a staff writer for Schools K-12, providing free, in-depth reports on all U.S. public and private K-12 schools. Patricia has a nose for research and writes stimulating news and views on school issues. For more on Los Angeles schools visit http://www.schoolsk-12.com/California/Los-AnAlynn Blog97344
Arana Blog25273

Traveling with Children Learning Activities for the Road

Traveling with children can be fun as well as very trying. Our family has been traveling with our children since the children were babies. Our children are in their middle school years now, but over the years we have come up with some fun travel activities that keep the childrens attention and teach them something in the process.

While on long trips, it can be very tempting to use the portable DVD player to provide entertainment for your children, and dont think for a minute that we dont use that form of entertainment. for parts of long trips. but there are so many simple, fun games that you can play with your children that will help make the trip smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some examples of activities that we have used to make travel time smoother.

One of my childrens favorite games is what my husband calls Toss Ups. In Toss Ups, my husband simply tosses questions up. For instance, Who was the first president of the United States of America? or If I had 5 apples, and I gave 3 apples to Tom , how many apples do I have now? Now, as you can see, the questions can be very simple depending on your childrens ages. If you have a larger age span between children, you might toss up general questions to all, but throw in. Now, this toss up is just for Adam and then ask a question tailored for the younger child. This game was a huge hit with our children when they were ages two through five, but even now that they are 11 and 13, every now and then we hear Hey Daddy give us some toss ups. Believe me, trying to come up with questions for smart middle-schoolers is tough!!

Lately, we have tailored the game of Going on a trip to our family. Going on a trip is a fun game where everyone in the car tells that they are going on a trip and bringing something along. That something has to begin with the first letter of the persons name. You keep going along in that fashion until everyone guesses the first letter - first name connection. Now that our children are older, we have adapted that game to a pretty intricate game of logic. For instance. I am going on a trip, and I am bringing an apple, a banana, and a cat. The next person might then say (if they know the correct connection) I am going on a trip, and I am bringing a mop, and napkin, and an octopus. The play continues until everyone gets the connection. In this case, it was that all of the things that I am bringing start with consecutive letters of the alphabet. The person who begins each game selects the connection.

These activities are simple and fun. The idea is for the entire family to be involved and enjoy the thrill of guessing the answers. Each of these activities can be played with just about any age group and best of all, there is no cost involved. Any piece of information can be used in the toss ups game from social studies, science, history, math, or trivia you name it. The idea here is to have fun with your children and make travel time a little easier.

Teresa Mills writes and maintains http://Kid-Friendly-Family-Vacations.com, a chronicle of her family's vacations. The web site's main objective is to motivate families everywhere to shake up the vacation routine and take their families on great kid friendly family vacations. Additional travel tips can be found on Kid Firendly Family Vacations' Family Travel Section.Benabdallah Blog64435
Ashis Blog58467

Online Dating Scams: Forewarned is Forearmed

We certainly don't want to put you off registering with an online dating agency as they generally provide a useful and worthwhile service. Unfortunately, wherever there is honest business activity there will also be those who try to take advantage of you. The best way of avoiding these scams is to know about them, so we've summarised the main dating scams below.

Fake Services

There have been plenty of fake online dating services out there. Often these services are full of photographs of non-existent members and they aim to entice you into taking out a subscription using what are basically computer generated messages. Obviously these services don't last very long so the easiest way to avoid them is to use a well established service that's been around for a while.

Remember: If the photo looks like a clipping from a magazine shoot then it probably was.

Escort Services

If you look for a dating service using search engines then you may come across one of the many escort services dressed up as a dating site. These are often international sites with foreign ladies looking for American or European men. These sites are actually selling sex so they are mainly aimed at men. The last one we visited apparently offered Russian girls who were looking for American penpals or husbands. Very little digging was needed before we were being offered all inclusive VIP trips to Moscow where we would be 'entertained' by the 'lonely' girls we had been corresponding with.

Remember: If you are being offered sex you will probably be expected to pay for it (and don't count on taking delivery!)

Free Services

So called 'free' dating services have also appeared. Many are only free in the sense that they have free registration but charge for actually using the service. This is fine in itself but a few advertise themselves in a way that suggests they are completely free of any charges. We are not keen on this but it's more a dodgy bit of marketing than an outright attempt to steal from you.

These are also a few services that are genuinely free of direct charges. These may initially seem like an attractive idea but you will discover they are full of advertising, have many members who are clearly not at all sincere, and you may also find your inbox is bombarded with spam from all the advertisers your e-mail address has been sold to. The last completely free site we reviewed had a chat room in which we 'lurked' and discovered what appeared to be a group of teenage boys boasting about the rude and offensive messages they had been posting. They had been reported to moderators and their ability to send messages had been temporarily suspended. They agreed the new names they were about to reregister under and then disappeared.

Remember: If they will let you in for free, everyone and anyone else gets in for free as well.

Sweetheart Scams

Apart from problems with sites, you must also beware of individual scammers who join genuine sites to prey on the vulnerable. There is very little the dating sites can do about this as they change their identity and use fake photographs so beware of this even if you are using the most rigorously checked sites.

This particular type of scam comes in a number of flavours including:

- A fellow national working overseas (perhaps in Nigeria) for a few months who needs you to cash money orders for him.

- An overseas lady who loves exchanging messages with you but she urgenly needs money to pay her phone bill so she can keep in touch.

- A wonderful women who is desperate to come and see you but she needs money for medical bills because her beloved mother/sister is very ill.

- A gorgeous and uninhibited young lady (perhaps Russian) who is amazingly eager to come and fulfil all your fantasies once you send here the money for visa and travel expenses.

Collectively known as "sweetheart" scams, the aim of these is simple: to separate you from your money, preferable all of it by getting your banking details or getting you to cash counterfeit money orders that will rebound on you later. Usually the charming/attractive online date is out of the country, either living overseas or 'on business' so a face-to-face meeting is initially out of the question. Naturally the requests for money don't arrive until a relationship has been built (in some cases over several months!) and start with very small, modest and relatively harmless requests that you might feel silly to refuse. People running these scams are playing a 'long game' and are attempting to develop relationships with dozens of possible 'marks' at the same time. One of the characteristics of these is often the fact that return messages are not particularly attentive and do not use your screen name or refer to anything you said previously. This is because it's hard work keeping several internet relationships on the go so the scammer has standard messages that they can send out to everyone with minimal editing: a kind of 'keep em hooked' production line. These are particularly nasty scams as they have involved losses running into tens of thousands of dollars and they play on the needs of people who may be lonely and vulnerable.

Remember: A real date will not ask you for any financial gifts, favours or information.

Burglary

This is a 'shorter' game. You meet online, you get on well, he sends you gifts, you arrange to meet in a romantic restaurant for dinner. He sends a text to apologise because he is running half an hour late but please wait as he is desperate to meet you. At this point, he knows where you live (you gave him your home address so he could send gifts), that you live alone (it came up in the exchange of messages), and he knows where you are and exactly how long he has to clear your house out.

Remember: He doesn't need to know your home address. Gifts can be sent to you via your Amazon account and other online gift shops will usually let you supply the delivery address once he sends you the order number.

Call Charges

This is an even shorter game than burglary. The story goes as follows: You meet online, he/she sends you a phone number, you call them, they keep you on the phone for ages, your phone bill comes in, you're broke.

Apart from dating, the ease of setting up a premium rate telephone account has let to a number of telephone scams. One that appeared in the UK about a year involved a damsel in distress knocking at your door, explaining that her car had broken down and asking to borrow your phone. Before using it she would offer to pay for the call and you would, of course, refuse this (by doing this, the scammer made sure no charges could be pressed). She would then phone her husband at work and there would be a few delays with getting him to the phone and interruptions so the call would last five minutes. If you were so untrusting that you listened in, you'd hear the conversation with her and a secretary, colleague, husband, background voice interrupting etc. In fact she would have dialed a premium rate telephone number charging up to 150 a minute and be working to a memorised script as she talked to a 5 minutes long recorded message.

Remember: Always check the first few digits of a phone number on the internet to see what the call is going to cost you.

Clearly there are a lot of unscrupulous people out there and this kind of scam works. The British Office of Fair Trading estimates UK consumers lose around 1 billion pounds a year to scams of this kind. Fortunately it's possible to avoid most of these problems by (a) making yourself aware of them, (b) keeping realistic about what you are looking at and how much you know about the person you are messaging and (c) making sure you use a reputable and established dating service.

Valerie Catcheside is the editor of http://ScourTheWeb.info' s dating pages where you can find news, scam alerts, advice and online dating site reviews.Chan Jiun Blog35191
Amarjit Blog54231

Considering a Condo Hotel? Here Are 20 Things You Need to Know!

1. What is a condo hotel or condotel?

Think of a condo hotel (also sometimes called a condotel or hotel condo) as buying a condominium, although one that is part of a four-star caliber hotel. Therefore, as an owner, when you are on vacation, youll get the benefit of more four-star services and amenities than you'd get in a typical condominium.

2. What types of services and amenities are found in condo hotels?

If you can imagine the niceties youd find in an upscale hotel, then you can picture a condo hotel. Among the features are often resort-style pools, full-service spas, state-of-the-art fitness centers, fine dining restaurants, concierge services and room service.

In some locations, like Las Vegas, youll find condo hotels with their own casinos, retail areas, and entertainment venues. In places like Orlando, youll find condo hotels with their own water parks and convention facilities.

3. What is the difference between a condo hotel and a traditional condominium?

The big difference between a hotel and a condo hotel is that a hotel typically has one owner, either individual or corporate, but a condo hotel is sold off unit by unit. Therefore, a 300-room condo hotel could have as many as 300 unit owners.

4. Is it evident to hotel guests whether theyre staying in a condo hotel or a traditional hotel?

A hotel guest will likely never know that the hotel has multiple owners because the property is operated just like a traditional hotel and often under the management of a well-known hotel company like Hilton, Hyatt, Starwood, Trump or W.

Also, each of the individual condo hotel units will look identical in design and dcor to every other, just as they would in a traditional hotel.

5. Who typically buys condo hotels?

Theyre primarily sold to people who want a vacation home but do not want to deal with the hassles typically associated with second home ownership such as maintaining the property or finding renters in the off season.

6. What is the demographic of the typical condo hotel buyer?

The spectrum of condo hotel buyers is pretty broad. There are families that want a second home in a vacation destination. There are baby boomers who are at or nearing retirement and want somewhere they can winter.

There are also plenty of investors who purchase a condo hotel unit with little intention of ever using it; theyre in it for the potential appreciation of the real estate.

7. Can you live in a condo hotel?

Condo hotels are not typically offered as primary residences. In fact, many of them limit the unit owner's usage of the condo hotel unit (typically 30-60 days per year) because the unit is expected and needed in the hotel's nightly rental program where it can be offered to guests and generate revenue.

8. Who gets the money when your condo hotel is rented out?

The hotel management company splits the rental revenue with the individual condo hotel owner. While the exact percentages vary from property to property, the typical rental split is in the 50%-50% range.

9. Who finds hotel guests and then cleans and maintains the condo hotel units?

The hotel management company markets the property and books hotel guests. It also maintains the unit and ensures the smooth operation of all of the hotels services and amenities.

10. What are the advantages / disadvantages of purchasing a condotel over purchasing typical rental properties?

Advantages include:

Hassle-free ownership; no landlord issues
Rental revenue to offset some or maybe all ownership expenses
A fantastic vacation home available for use whenever you want
A real estate investment at a time when other investments may seem less attractive
Strong likelihood of appreciation
Pride of ownership --"I own a piece of a Trump"

Disadvantages include:

Annual cash flow could be equal to or less than annual ownership costs
Pets are usually not welcome.
An owners condo hotel unit may be rented when the owner wants to it, so advance reservations are required to guarantee availability.
The condo hotel unit is subject to the same dips in the market that affect all hotels in the competitive market set: hurricanes, terrorist threats, warm winters up north, price of gas, etc., all of which can affect a unit's occupancy rate and the amount of revenue it generates.

11. Are condo hotel units difficult to finance?

Not at all, but they do take 20% down typically, whereas condos can be purchased with less cash down. It's also important to make sure you use a mortgage broker who has had success in getting condo hotel financing deals done. Not all banks offer financing for this type of real estate, but more and more are getting involved as condo hotels become more widely available.

12. How long have condo hotels been around and where are they located?

Condo hotels have been around for several decades, but the huge surge of four-star and five-star condo hotels that have been making their way across the country, started around year 2000 in the Miami area.

The Miami-Fort Lauderdale area currently has the most condo hotels, but areas like Orlando and Las Vegas are developing condo hotel properties at an even faster rate and will likely surpass South Florida soon. Outside the U.S., up-and-coming condo hotel areas are the Bahamas, Panama, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Canada and Dubai.

13. How much do condo hotel units cost?

Thats like asking how much a car costs. There are different quality condo hotels. Some require greater amounts of money than others, obviously.

There are inexpensive condo hotels out there for as little as $100,000. These are typically found in properties that have converted their use from an existing hotel. They are hotel room-sized, lack kitchen facilities, luxury franchises, and other first-class amenities.

Then there are the four-star or greater properties that may start in the $300,000 to $400,000 range, but can go all the way up to $800,000 just for a studio unit.

One- and two-bedroom units cost substantially more than a studio. Of course, the studios do come fully furnished and finished, and will be significantly larger in size than a typical hotel room, and may attract guests because of its name like St. Regis, Ritz or W.

14. What are typical maintenance costs?

On average about $1.00 to $1.50 per sq. ft., but the range can exceed $2.00 sq. ft. in the most luxurious properties.

15. Do you buy condo hotel units after they have been built, or can you purchase condo hotels in pre-construction?

Unless you are in a hurry to get started vacationing or you need to complete a 1031 exchange, it's best to buy condo hotels in pre-construction as early as possible. Thats when prices are lowest and unit selection is greatest.

You will likely wait two years or longer before closing on and taking possession of your condo hotel unit, but you will have locked in the price and will get the benefit of maximum appreciation.

16. Is there anything else investors should want to know about condotels?

There is more to buying this type of real estate than the old phrase, "location, location, location." While most condo hotels are located in desirable resort and business area locations, what is most important is a good franchise with a strong reservation system.

Also, do not be fooled by an aggressive rental split. One way or the other, the developer of the property will have to staff, maintain and operate the hotel and its services like the restaurants, bars, spas and pools from his share of the proceeds.

If he's giving you a very favorable share of the rental, he's also more likely to be charging you a higher monthly maintenance fee. Of course, this goes both ways. If the maintenance split that is offered is closer to 50-50, then your maintenance should be more reasonable too.

17. Any suggestions to investors in choosing which condo hotel to buy?

Get good advice. That means you dont want to rely only on the pitch provided by an onsite salesperson at a condo hotel.

You want to talk with a broker who specializes in condo hotels and who knows and understands the entire condo hotel market, not just the facts pertaining to a single property. He or she will listen to your wants and needs and then offer recommendations as to which properties best match your requirements. Youll have an opportunity to comparison shop and consider the pros and cons of each available property.

A good broker can be the difference between your buying a condo hotel that will be problematic and not live up to your expectations or one that will provide you with years of great vacations, good annual revenue and a substantial profit when you sell.

18. Does it cost more to use a real estate broker to purchase a condo hotel than buying a unit on ones own?

No! With new condo hotel properties, the prices are always set by the developer and are exactly the same whether you buy directly from an onsite salesperson at the property or using a broker.

The brokers commission is always paid by the developer and is already built into the price regardless of whether an outside broker participates in the sale or not. Since a brokers representation is free to buyers, it does make sense to enlist their aid and get the benefit of their advice before making a purchase.

19. How can prospective buyers find a good condo hotel broker?

Ask friends for broker recommendations or search online for condo hotel broker.

Also, visit condo hotel real estate websites and see if the information they provide seems comprehensive and unbiased. If their website seems to focus on selling homes or office space, and the condo hotel information appears to be an afterthought, steer clear. Because condo hotels are a unique type of real estate, your best bet is to work with a condo hotel broker who specializes.

20. How can buyers learn about new condo hotel properties coming on the market?

Condo hotel brokers can be good information sources as they often learn about properties prior to their release to the general public. Another option is to subscribe to a condo hotel newsletter such as the one we publish called Condo Hotel Property Alert.

We offer subscriptions for free on our website, http://www.CondoHotelCenter.com. It features a different condo hotel property coming on the market each edition, giving buyers an opportunity to invest when prices are at their lowest levels and the selection of available units is greatest.

Joel Greene is the President of Condo Hotel Center located in Miami Florida, which specializes in the sale of condo hotels. Visit his information-packed web site, http://www.CondoHotelCenter.com, for more facts on condo hotels and to see condo hotel listings, photos and prices. Celso Blog94760
Athanassios Blog48078

Explore Adventurous Lake TahoeRealize Home at Vacation Rentals

Enthrall the adventurous Lake Tahoeround the year. In summer, unveil the blue mystery of the limpid lake with exciting waterskiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, swimming, canoeing, jet skiing, paddle boating and fishing. Explore the lure of land with hiking and mountain biking. And in winter, enjoy skiing at several world renowned ski-resorts. You can enjoy snowboarding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing during winter in Lake Tahoe as well. Furthermore, all you can do without missing your home, as Lake Tahoe vacation rentals offer you to relish vacation with a homely feeling.

Located on the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe attracts tourist round the year. Tranquil waters of Lake Tahoe, enchanting environment and a lot of excitements have made the place one of the famous tourist destinations. And at vacation rental abodes, vacations can be enjoyable with sheer comfort and privacy.

As vacation rental abodes, many villas, apartments, bungalows are rented by travelers. At these dwellings, travelers can enchant their holidays in their own way. Available in various sizes and at different ranges, vacation rentals residences in Lake Tahoe are able to meet all sorts of travelers requirements. From one bedroom to fifteen-sixteen bedrooms, travelers can access manifold condos within their budget.

All possible necessary equipments are catered at the vacation rentals condominiums. Every vacation rental has a kitchen, adorned with all kitchen accessories, living room (s), outfitted with modern amenities, dining hall, swimming pool, television etc. Even more, at the vacation condos, you can avail telephone and the internet service as well.

If you want to cherish your holiday seeing the amazement of Lake Tahoe, then choose your vacation rentals that are close to the lake. Playing with the waves by ridding a wakeboard, seeing sunrise and sunset lying on your private porch, sleeping listing to the roar of the wave, all you can do here. Or, if the adventure of skiing is your main preference, then staying at the vacation sky-in and sky-out homes will be the best option for you.

However, depending on the facility, location, and size, the rate of Lake Tahoe vacation rental homes varies. Generally, to get vacation resorts at a cheaper rate, travelers should look for different options. They can opt for property dealers, travel companies or local property owners. Availing a combo package is also a good option. These combo packages include plane fare, accommodation and car rental cost together, with which travelers can enjoy a cost effective vacation trip. So, what are you waiting for? Head into Lake Tahoe, have fun and realize your home at vacation rentals abodes.

Sylvestor Johnson is offering loan and rental advice for quite some time. He is working as financial consultant for ThinkRentals. To find Lake Tahoe vacation rentals, Apartment rentals, Cabin rentals, Condo rentals, Rental homes, Vacation rentals at cheap rates that best suits your needs visit http://www.thinkrentals.comByoungin Blog28030
Beate Blog88377

Atlanta School District Receives High Marks and Scholarship Funds

Newsweek Ranks North Atlanta High School in Top 2%

Newsweek magazine ranks twenty-seven thousand high schools throughout the nation and North Atlanta High School, part of the Atlanta School District, ranks among top 2%. Newsweek magazine compiles the lists of Best High School and releases the list at the end of every school year. This year North Atlanta High School was ranked at 531 out of the 27,000 schools ranked. These rankings are based on the high schools use and offering of Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate courses. Advanced placement classes are college preparation courses. The international baccalaureate uses an internationally recognized course curriculum.

North Atlanta High School offers and encourages students to take and pursue advanced placement classes or international baccalaureate courses. North Atlanta High School also operates International Studies and Performing Arts magnet school programs. The International Studies magnet program offers courses that focus own foreign languages, communications and social studies courses. The International Studies magnet program offers students opportunities to take part in youth foreign exchanges and internships in international companies. The Performing Arts magnet program stresses high academic achievement with performance art training.

Mays High School Teacher Receives Award

A Mays High School, a high school in the district of Atlanta Schools, teacher received the Close Up Foundations Linda Myers Chosen Award for Teaching Excellence in Civic Education. Hajj Womack received a plaque and one thousand dollars. Mr. Womack, a social studies teacher, was awarded the Close Up Foundations Linda Myers Chosen Award for Teaching Excellence in Civic Education while in Washington D.C. with students participating in the Close Up Washington program. Civics education is vital for students because teens often feel separated from politics in America.

Atlanta School Districts Douglass High School Receives Scholarship Funds from Magic Johnson

Former NBA player Magic Johnson visited Douglass High School on his nationwide AIDS awareness tour. He spoke to the students about safe sex, the value of education and their future. He gave the school twenty thousand dollars for college scholarships for graduating seniors. Twenty students were awarded $1000 scholarships as part of Douglass High Schools Visions of the Future Awards program. The awarded students were: Bianca Barnswell Talesha Noble, Lawrence Boddie Jihan Pankey, Mychael Bond Andrea Parks, Seron Fields Louis Perrino, Ramia Finley Shatila Platt, Aamir Fard Adrienne Richardson, Mavia Hanson Anthony Rogers, Yareli Hernandez Catrina Searcy, Kadayas Howard Delisa Stevens, Kenya Merritt Paul White. Magic Johnson gave the students advice that they should continue their education in college or start their own business. Johnson discussed his own work as a businessman after retiring from basketball. He also gave out Los Angeles Lakers jerseys to eight students in the audience. The jerseys bore Johnsons own number and current Lakers players.

Stacy Andell is a staff writer for Schools K-12, Which provides free, in-depth reports on all U.S. public and private K-12 schools. Stacy has a nose for research and writes stimulating news and views on school issues.Bhanu Blog86493
Angelakos Blog10062

What You Should Know About Massage Oils

What You Should Know About Massage Oils

There are so many massage oil products on the market today, in this article we'll take a look at various types, which ones to choose from, and which ones to avoid like the plague.

There are two main groups of oils used: vegetable fats and oils, and mineral oils. Many massage products today contain mineral oils. They are synthetic, and even though they have a long shelf life and provide good lubrication, they can be very bad for the skin and body.

Mineral Oils create a thin film on the surface of the skin, which clogs the pores and stops the skin from breathing. Also, they do not contain any vitamins and disrupt the body's natural ability to absorb fat soluble vitamins. Even though mineral oils appear to moisturize the skin, in reality they are preventing normal, healthy functioning. The skin becomes dependant on these mineral oils and with long-term use this results in a deterioration of the skin's ability to stay healthy.

Vegetable fats and oils on the other hand are easily absorbed by the skin and give vital energy to the body. They are used to create new cells. Most vegetable oils contain vitamins which are necessary for healthy skin. They also soften the skin and help it to retain moisture. Certain vegetable oils with a lot of monounsaturated fatty acids like Avocado and Almond oil provide great lubrication, keep well, and nourish the skin.

The other group of massage oils that are used are Polyunsaturated fatty acids. A lack of these essential fatty acids can lead to rashes, eczema and dry skin. These oils act as a vitamin for the skin.

A couple types of polyunsaturated fatty acids are Linoleic and Linolenic acid. They need to be combined with vitamin E to stop them from going bad quickly. They are thin liquids which are easily absorbed by the skin, drier than other fatty acids and they reduce the size of skin pores. They are great for people with oily skin and large pores. Some Vegatable oils that contain a lot of polyunsaturated acids are Sunflower Oil, Evening Primrose Oil and Grape Seed Oil.

Oils should always be Cold Pressed to make sure that the vitamins and fatty acids are not destroyed during the manufacturing process. Most commercial grade vegetable oils which are intended for use in cooking are obtained by solvent extraction and then refined which destroys most of the beneficial properties in the oil.

Now we'll take a look at some of the properties of the most popular healthy oils:

Almond oil is an excellent emollient (softens and soothes the skin) and helps the skin to keep it's moisture balance. This is one of the more popular carrier oils used in aromatherapy and massage as it's non-greasy, spreads easy and is great for nourishing the skin.

Jojoba oil is also an excellent moisturizer and is great for all skin types. It can usually be used on blemished skin without irritation. Jojoba penetrates the skin easily and is suitable for all skin types. Preferably, Jojoba should be blended with other oils as on it's own it does not give enough nourishment to the skin. Also, Jojoba keeps for up to 5 years before it goes bad.

Grapeseed oil is rich in linoleic acid. It is known to have regenerative and restructuring qualites as well as excellent moisturizing properties. Grapeseed oil is non-greasy and contains vitamins, minerals, protein, Gamma Linoleic Acid, and a small amount of vitamin E.

Apricot oil has moisturizing, nourishing and revitalizing properties and is particularily helpful for dehydrated, delicate, mature and sensitive skin. It also helps to soothe inflammation. This finely textured oil spreads easily and is particularily rich in oileic acid and linoleic acid.

Avocado oil is often used for clients with dry or mature skin, and for people with eczema, psoriasis or similar conditions. It is also very useful for treating skin that is damaged, dehydrated and undernourished. It is known to regenerate the skin and soften the tissue. Although it can be used pure, it is in most cases mixed with another carrier like Almond oil or Grapeseed. It is easily absorbed into the skin and deep tissue and excellent emollient properties.

Wheat germ oil has a high vitamin E conent and lots of essential fatty acids. It is known to help promote a smoother, younger looking skin and assists in healing scar tissues as well as stretch marks. It is too sticky to use on its own, but is excellent when blended with lighter carriers such as almond oil. It is known to to promote the formation of new cells, improve circulation and help repair sun damage. Also it is helpful for the symptoms of dermatitis. This carrier is known to stimulate tissue regeneration and is often added to other blends because of its antioxidant properties.

Hazelnut oil is fine in texture and has excellent moisturizing properties. Hazelnut can also help tone and tighten the skin while strengthening capillaries and assisting in cell regeneration.

I suggest that you experiment with mixing different oils together and see how your skin responds. We all have different types of skin and what works well for one person may not work for another.

JSun Storm is a Yoga Instructor and Teacher of Hawaiian LomiLomi Massage. You can visit his website at http://www.LearnHawaiianMassage.com.Carlton Blog58105
Aitsung Blog49791

Four Elements for The American Geisha Weight Loss and Maintenance Plan

If you want to lose weight, you dont want to wait until the New Year comes. You can start working on it now before the New Year comes, and before the big meals, festives come around you, Thanksgiving dinner, Christmas parties.People usually gain weights over the holidays. Why dont you want to start losing weight before you gain more. It will work better with twice beneifts for you.

Four elements make up the American Geisha Weight Loss and Maintenance Plan that can work for you. Here they are:

1. You absolutely commit to your personal goal of marriage to the right man for you, and soon. You are strongly motivated to do what is necessary to make this happen, because love and marriage to your Good Man is a most important accomplishment in your life that will make you incredibly happy. (Ask yourself right now, Is Py, my American Geisha Older Sister, right? Am I totally committed and motivated to being married? Be honest, of course. Be aware of what you truly need and want.)

2. You are personally responsible for prioritizing your needs and knowing that your need for love and marriage are higher priorities than your need for excessive food. Put simply, you need love more than you need excess food. (Again, dear Younger Sister, ask yourself, Do I truly value love and a great marriage over food? Is my heart with love or is my heart with food?) If you have enthusiastically and excitedly answered both of my questions with a Yes! then the addition of two more factors will make your plan work today, tomorrow, next month, and even five or ten years into your great marriage:

3. Stay aware and conscious of what your weight is and of what youre doing to lose or maintain weight by creating a weight/exercise chart and posting it on the refrigerator, right under your two affirmations.

4. Lastly, find a photograph of you at your heaviest or at your current weight, and a photograph of you (no matter how young) when you were happy and comfortable with your weight. I want you to stop reading right now. Mark this page. Then go find those two pictures. When you have the pictures in hand, come right back to this page and keep reading. (Please indulge your Older Sister, smile, and go get the pictures, now.) All right, you are back. You probably know what I want you to do with the two photos. Post them on the refrigerator, with magnets or scotch tape.

Py Kim Conant, the author of Sex Secrets of an American Geisha: How to Attract, Satisfy, and Keep Your Man, Hunter House Publishers. Looking for relationship, dating and sex tips? Visit Pys website at http://www.AmericanGeishaHouse.comAtindra Blog26517
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Benefits of Online Degrees From Accredited Online Colleges & Universities

Little or No Commuting

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

Complete Course Work at Your Convenience

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

Save in Childcare Costs

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

Learning at Your Own Pace and Style

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

Easy Access to Learning Resources

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

Advanced Degrees Lead to Increased Salaries

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

No Physical Accessibility Issues

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

Provides for Total Equality

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

Broadens Your Overall Perspective

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

Teaches Project Management Skills

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

Nancy Lambert is an executive for Accredited-Online-Colleges.com. Accredited-Online-Colleges.com provides information on hundreds of degrees offered online through accredited colleges and universities. From online certificates to Associates, Bachelors, Masters and PhD degrees, Accredited-Online-Colleges.com helps students and adults discover the advantages of earning their degree online.Amril Blog98605
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Parenting Teenagers - Your Teenagers First Year At College

The first year at college is an extremely stressful time for both the parent and the teenager. Not only is your teen truly leaving home for the first time, they also are leaving their friends and a world that they have lived in and felt comfortable with for years.

For most teenagers their first year includes a new area, along with a new room and roommate. College comes with a learning environment that is fast paced and a lot less personal than high school. This is sometimes an extreme shock to a teenager and they may soon find themselves struggling to keep up with and understand all the material they need to learn. Tests and quizzes are longer and require knowledge of much more material than High School, causing students' stress levels to rise even more.

With no one to really guide them, sometimes a first-year student will find unhealthy or dangerous ways to relax and take their mind off of school. Although the dangers your teenager faces in college are the same as high school, the environment, rules, and people which present these situations are completely different. Your teenager is now in a place where they have to make friends all over again, and since you, nor any other adult is looking over their shoulder to tell them "No", they may make unsafe and regretful decisions.

Drinking is the biggest threat to a teenager in college. Alcohol is easy to purchase and even easier to consume. Parties constantly exist near or even on campus, with availability of alcohol and sometimes even drugs. With no adults present and security personnel rarely showing up, a teenager may feel almost invincible, therefore pushing themselves to a level of drinking and partying that they cannot handle. A teenager may begin to spin out of control without even knowing it. Partying too much on the weekend, or even during the school week, may lead to classes being skipped. Before they know it, teenagers in their first year of college may find themselves falling behind in class, possibly leading to the failing of classes.

What Parents can Do

Keep in contact with your teenager, but do not smother them. Call occasionally to see how much time they are spending in their room. Do not ask them if they are going to class or not. Instead, ask more personal questions about their classes. For instance, if they are taking an English class, ask what book they are reading at the moment. If they have an assigned book reading, ask what the book is about and if they like it. Ask whether they are or are not enjoying reading it and find out why your teenager feels that way. By asking about the details, parents will get a better understanding about the progress their teen is making and how serious they are taking their classes.

It is also important to ask them how they like the college environment and if they are making friends. Ask what your son or daughter is doing in his or her spare time and what entertainment options are available.

Make sure your teen knows that he can call home anytime, especially if he feels overwhelmed or homesick.

At the same time, ask your teenager about the best time to reach him so you can talk to him when you are missing him. By admitting to your teen that you miss him it will be easier for your teen to pick up the phone to call you if she is homesick or feeling overwhelmed.

Parents experiencing the empty nest syndrome are sometimes tempted to convert their college freshman's room to other use. There are several reasons why I would recommend not doing that. First, your teen will be home from college more than parents initially think. Secondly, already troubled by the separation of family and friends, it would cause further distress to your teenager if his room were not available for him when he comes home. During the first year of college your teenager has to work through several emotional issues. It would ease some of the stress for your teenager if everything were the way she left it when she comes home during breaks.

Christina Botto has been involved with helping parents and teenagers resolve complicated issues for more than 14 years, observing and developing parenting strategies. Her dedication to helping parents inspired her to write her book, 'Help Me With My Teenager! A Step-by-step Guide for Parents that Works.' Christina continues to help parents and their teens through her website http://www.helpwithteenagers.comCepero Blog4695
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Is Your Type 2 Diabetes Really Under Control?

If you are among the growing number of people
suffering from type 2 diabetes,
here is some good news: A plan of basic therapies
including education, a personalized meal plan,
nutritional supplements, and ongoing monitoring
and support can reduce the amount of insulin and
oral medications needed to manage the disease and
decrease the symptoms and complications of
diabetes. When you are empowered by knowledge,
you can learn to effectively manage this
potentially devastating disease.

Many diabetic patients think their symptoms are "
under control" because they are taking insulin
and other oral medications that help keep their
blood sugars within acceptable levels.
Medications are, of course, critical in the
treatment of the disease. However, if the patient
does not commit to an active role in addressing
the causes of problems, then the result may be an
ever-increasing dependence on insulin or other
medications, which have their own negative side
effects over time. For instance, did you know
that insulin is a fat-storing hormone that often
leads to unwanted weight gain among diabetic
patients? That weight gain can then lead to other
problems such as high blood pressure or joint
problems.

In my own work with patients, I stress four
important factors. The first is
education about the disease process. It is
critical to understand what diabetes is and what
the effects can be on your body. Without proper
treatment, problems such as loss of vision, pain
or numbness in the extremities, ulcers on the
feet, and damage to vital organs can occur.
Learning about how the disease affects the body
to cause these problems is the first crucial step
in your treatment plan.

The next factor is developing a personalized meal
plan. "You are what you eat" was never truer than
when talking about diabetes. By understanding how
certain foods affect your body and your blood
sugars, it is possible to enjoy good meals while
still controlling blood sugars and decreasing
your weight. As an example, eating a piece of
fruit alone can cause blood sugars to rise, but
taking a protein such as nuts or cheese with the
fruit will prevent a spike in the blood sugars.

Targeted nutritional supplements or botanical
treatments can also be very helpful. Recent
studies have shown these alternative therapies to
be effective in decreasing blood pressure,
lowering cholesterol, and decreasing blood sugars,
thus reducing potential organ damage.

Perhaps the most important factor in a treatment
plan is an ongoing monitoring and support program.
Working with a healthcare provider who will
spend time discussing your progress and modifying
your treatment plan on a regular basis is
critical to successfully managing the disease.

You don't have to be a "victim" of type 2
diabetes. By being proactive and working with a
knowledgeable physician, you can control your
diabetes without letting it control you.

Dr. Tina Marcantel is a naturopathic physician in Mesa, Arizona. Before entering medical school she was a registered nurse. Dr. Marcantel has over twenty-five years of experience in the health care field including diabetes management, women's health, weight loss, and mental health. She practices holistic, integrative patient care. For more information please visit her site at http://www.drmarcantel.comCartohl Blog18501
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Rental Property Investment A Quick Introduction

Rental property investment is emerging as an excellent option for investors as they are anxious about the sudden slumps and trifling gains of the stock market.

Are you looking for rental property investment? Before you set on your quest for a rental property, ensure that you really know what its like to be a landlord. Though it is a profitable venture, it is not a cinch by any means. You would have to maintain the property in order to reap the financial rewards throughout the period of your ownership.

To many, rental property investment is simply something that involves buying a house, giving it on rent, and then raking in bucks while relaxing in a couch. However, this is far from being realistic, especially, if you wish for a regular rental income for years to come. Bagging a rental property and accruing a healthy rental income for a year or two is nothing but a mundane task. However, maintaining a steady rental income until you sell the property is what counts as a great effort on your part.

Being an investor, there is nothing worse than having to keep a vacant rental property. This is because you would still need funds for the upkeep of the property, which isnt providing you any returns as its vacant. Therefore, you should actively seek tenants, and do whatever is possible to keep them contented. This involves heeding to the needs of the tenants and making timely repairs. Though you might carry out some trivial repairs by yourself, other complex tasks (fixing pipe leaks and windowpanes) are best left to an expert.

In your quest for rental property investment, it is pivotal that you consider the locale. This entails taking into account the distance of the property from your residence, the availability of tenants, the average rent that you can collect, and the ability of tenants in the locality to pay you. Some locales may prove more beneficial than others. For instance, it is better to rent a house nearby a college, since an awful lot of students are likely to search for a dwelling in the vicinity of their college. This results in an ample supply of tenants all year round.

In a gist, rental property investment is all about analyzing the locale, doing whatever it takes to rent your property, keeping your tenants happy, and maintaining the property so it can be rented year after year thereby minimizing the vacancy period.

Copyright © 2006 Joel Teo. All rights reserved. (You may publish this article in its entirety with the following author's information with live links only.)

Joel Teo writes on various financial topics relating to Ahwatukee Real Estate Investment. Signup for his free online Real Estate Investing newsletter today and gain access to the Six Day Real Estate Investment Profits Course now at http://www.realestateinvestment101.info/Ahwatukee.htmlAnanth Blog39197
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Professional Data Recovery Services

There are several data recovery software programs out there that are intended to assist you with recovering lost data. Even though they may be a big help with some cases, there are other times when they dont do anything. In the event of software programs not being able to recover your lost data, you can count on professional services to be there for you.

As we all know, the process of data recovery is very time consuming and requires quite a bit of technical prowess in order to recover the data that has been lost. If the recovery is performed in the wrong way, it can lead to the hard drive being damaged beyond repair, and quite possibly the information that was stored on the hard drive to be lost forever.

Even though you may know quite a bit about computers and hard drives, data recovery is something that is best left to professionals. They have all the equipment and knowledge to recover files, without bringing more damage to the hard drive. They can also recover any type of file that was on your hard drive, even preview the files before they recover them. This way, they will be able to go over with you which files you wish to be recovered.

Professional services can also offer you is the emergency boot media. This methods allows you to recover any data from computers that cannot boot Windows due to a failure, virus, damage to the hard drive, or loss of data. This is ideal for times when your computer will start up, although it doesnt want to load Windows. Normally, this method can bring everything back to your hard drive, in a matter of minutes.

Professional data recovery specialists offer a variety of services and skills to help you recover any data that you have lost. They work with hard drives on a daily basis, and know everything that they can and cant do. Even though you may be able to do it yourself, you also have to look at the time it takes as well. Professional services have the time to put into the recovery process, as they do it for a living. Recovery takes a lot of time - which is something that many of us simply do not have.

Anytime your hard drive crashes or you experience a loss of data, you can always count on professional data recovery services to retrieve your data. Although it may take a few days or even a few weeks, youll get your data back. They can retrieve any or all of your files, no matter how bad the hard drive may be damaged. Even though it may appear there is no hope for your lost files - professional data recovery services can make it happen.

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John Ugoshowa. You are welcome to use this article on your website or in your ezines as long as you have a link back to http://www.quickregister.net/partners/Bhusan Blog5104
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Florida State Football Tickets - See The Seminoles Now Before The Program Declines

If youve had a chance to use Florida State football tickets in the past 20 years or so, youve been privileged to watch one of the most dominant programs in the history of college football. The Seminoles have dominated the ACC as well, and they have produced countless NFL stars over the years.

However, the Seminoles are showing some early signs of decline, and given that their legendary coach, Bobby Bowden, is nearing the end of his historic career, Seminoles fans may be watching a ship thats slowly taking on water. Well examine why FSU fans should brace themselves for a bit of a dark period below.

Succeeding a Legend

Have you ever tried to succeed a legend? Its not easy, thats for sure. Whoever replaces Bowden will have to deal with constant comparisons, and will only have to fill the shoes of the most successful, when measuring by number of wins, college football coach of all time. Itll be a thankless job where the new coach will almost be set up to fail, even though it wont really be anyones fault. Florida State football tickets were an afterthought before Bowden arrived on campus in 1976, as the team had won only four games over the previous three seasons.

One need only look at Florida States neighbors to gain an understanding of the task that awaits Bowdens successor. Ron Zook failed at Florida after Steve Spurrier moved to the NFL, and Jim Donnan and Ray Goff did not meet expectations at Georgia after Vince Dooley hung up the headset in Athens. If you want to look further west, ask Frank Solich how things went at Nebraska after he succeeded Tom Osborne. Solich had a good record, but not good enough, and he was dismissed after only a few seasons.

Recent Record

Bowdens list of accomplishments at FSU is stunning. Hes won two national championships and finished in the AP Top 5 an unbelievable 14 consecutive years. Florida State also won 10 or more games for 14 consecutive seasons, but from 2001 through 2005, the Seminoles lost 20 games. Previously, it had taken 15 seasons to lose that many games.

Florida State has won 10 games only once in the past five years, which is a far cry from doing just that 14 consecutive times, and generally speaking, teams no longer fear Florida State the way they once did. Bowden is beginning to lose some recruiting battles that he had always won, and some would say its because he can no longer guarantee that hell be around for four or five more seasons, as he is, after all, about to turn 77.

In-State Competition

Although Bowden has always had to contend with in-state powers Miami and Florida, it seems that these two programs are starting to creep up on Florida State a bit. Miami is struggling so far in 2006, but theyve won several national championships in recent years and are always a serious threat to win it all. Florida has a hot new coach in Urban Meyer, and hes building a program that could challenge for the national title in 2006 despite a brutal schedule.

Miami and Florida have also started to snare recruits from talent-rich Florida that would have never considered any other school than FSU a decade ago, and thats perhaps the most troubling sign for the future of the program and for the next coach.

Basically, there will never be another Bobby Bowden, and the next coach at Florida State will get an unwanted lesson in that reality. Florida State football tickets will continue to sell well for the foreseeable future, but they may become just a bit easier to find before too long.

Written by Jay Nault, sponsored by http://www.stubhub.com/ . StubHub sells Florida State football tickets: http://www.stubhub.com/florida-state-seminoles-football-tickets/ sports tickets, concert tickets, theater tickets and more to just about any event in the world.Anvradha Blog18135
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