Orato Articles

How to Make Custom Pens

Tony PetracciTony Petracci — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 13:47:48 +0000

Customizing Tips for Experienced Pen Crafters

Do your custom pens lack the desired customization? It's an understandable sentiment - you buy the materials; turn the wood; and, as you assemble the pen you've crafted with your own hands, you realize that the pen does not meet your imagination's expectations.

An easy way to increase customization is to do away with your pen kit's center band and top. With only a few small steps you can create a pen with an elegant shape that catches the eye.

This article presupposes that you are using your own wood blanks as opposed to purchased blanks of wood or acrylic. Please note: this article is intended for experienced pen crafters only.

Cutting Blanks

Use 1/2" to 5/8" square stock of the wood of your choice. Cut the lower blank to the length of the lower brass tube, allowing 1/16" at each end for squaring off. Cut the upper blank to the length of the upper brass tube plus the length of the pen kit's center band and the length of the pen kit's top, allowing 1/16" at each end for squaring off. It is recommended that you use a handsaw with the thinnest kerf possible.

Treating Your Blanks

Drilling the Blanks

With the appropriately sized bit, use a press to drill a centered hole lengthwise through the lower blank. Drill a centered hole the length of the upper brass tube into the upper blank. Do not drill through the upper blank.

Gluing the Tubes

Use 150 grain sandpaper to rough the brass tubes before gluing. Apply three equally spaced lines of thicker cyanoacrylate glue along the length of the brass tubes. Insert each tube into its respective blank with a twisting motion to the evenly spread the glue. Allow the glue to dry.

Using CA Glue

Squaring the Ends

Use an appropriately sized barrel trimmer to square the ends of the blanks flush to the ends of the brass tubes.

Turning the Blanks

With an adjustable mandrel on the lathe, slide onto the mandrel both blanks, then an appropriately sized standard bushing. Use a 1/2" roughing gouge to round the blanks roughly. Then use a 3/8" spindle gouge to bring down the blanks to within 1/16" of the bushing. Cut the blanks flush to the bushing with a 1/2" skew chisel. Finish off the tailstock end of the upper blank to your preference.

Sanding the Blanks

If the blanks are not perfectly flush, use 150 grain sandpaper to flush the blanks. Then sand the blanks, beginning with 200 grain paper and gradually increasing to 3200 paper.

Sanding and Finishing Tips

Applying the Clip

Using a carborundum wheel on a high-speed rotary tool, cut the ring from the pocket clip flush to the sides of the pocket clip, creating a "short tenon." Lock the pen into a drill press vice. Using a 1/16" bit, drill 3-4 holes running widthwise into the pen, creating a mortis. Fill the mortis with fast-acting epoxy and apply the pocket clip. Allow to dry and you will have a genuinely customized pen.

There are ways to add more customization to your work, but following these steps should provide you with a basis for creating unique home-crafted pens that will satisfy your imagination and impress others.

New England and Indianapolis Collide

Andy TownsendAndy Townsend — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 19:53:16 +0000

NFL Pits Bengals at Steelers, Eagles v Bolts

Week nine in the NFL featured Kurt Warner throwing 5 touchdowns, the Cowboys avenging last year's demoralizing loss to the Eagles, and the Bengals sweeping the Ravens for the year.

Week 10 will have the sexy quarterback matchups, and none come bigger than Tom Brady versus Peyton Manning.

Here is how this week will shake out.

New England Patriots vs. Indianapolis Colts

Why New England wins - Tom Brady versus the Colts banged up secondary. The Colts will be without starters Bob Sanders and Marlin Jackson. The Patriots have also been using the run to set up the pass more leaving Moss wide open at times in the middle of the field. Bill Belichick will have plenty of wrinkles in the defense to keep Peyton at bay.

Why Indianapolis wins - The Colts have won 17 regular season matchups including a 3 point victory over the Pats last season. Peyton Manning is playing at a high level and it is not just Reggie Wayne catching the ball. Austin Collie and Pierre Garcon have been adequate and with Joseph Addai running hard the Patriots won't have enough answers.

Final Result - Indianapolis 17 New England 16

Cincinnati Bengals vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

Why Cincinnati wins - Confidence. Cedric Benson's consistent running will move the chains keeping the offense on the field. Cornerbacks, Leon Hall and Jonathan Joseph have been lock down as of late and will make it hard on Ben Roethlisberger to make good throws. The Bengals defense forces multiple turnovers taking points of the board for the Steelers.

Why Pittsburgh wins - After losing 2 straight at the beginning of the season the Steelers have righted their ship and will be pumped at home. Head Coach Mike Tomlin has never lost to an AFC North opponent at home (7-0). The differences this game will be the Steelers have all world safety Troy Polamalu, who missed their first meeting of the season.

Final Result - Pittsburgh 24 Cincinnati 17

Philadelphia Eagles vs. San Diego Chargers

Why Philadelphia wins - Explosive offense will slow down San Diego's vaunted pass rush. Tight End Brent Celek will cause matchup problems over the middle and in the red zone becoming one of McNabb's favorite targets. Chargers are allowing opponents to convert 43 percent of their 3 downs which give the Eagles more chances to bust the big one.

Why San Diego wins - Antonio Cromartie can handle DeSean Jackson which will limit him from getting loose and help control the passing game. With the status of Brian Westbrook still uncertain and Jason Peters battling a painful knee injury the Eagles could be put in tough 2 and long or 3 and long situations which does not favor the young core of wide receivers for the Eagles.

Final Result - San Diego 23 Philadelphia 20

Monday Night Game:

Baltimore 42 Cleveland 10

Upset Pick of the Week:

Chicago 23 San Francisco 21 (Thursday Night Game)

Other Action:

Atlanta 27 Carolina 20

Tennessee 28 Buffalo 17

Denver 17 Washington 13

Minnesota 30 Detroit 17

New York (A) 24 Jacksonville 21

New Orleans 34 St. Louis 17

Miami 21 Tampa Bay 13

Oakland 10 Kansas City 7

Dallas 26 Green Bay 24

Arizona 28 Seattle 17

Last Week: 9-4

Overall: 89-40

Bye Week Teams: Houston, New York (N)

Begonia Plant Arrangements for Your Home

Christine EirscheleChristine Eirschele — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 17:55:20 +0000

Potted Houseplants Create an Indoor Garden

An indoor garden can be created with begonia plants potted as houseplants. A beechleaf begonia for a hanging basket, an angel wing begonia and a rex begonia makes an indoor garden.

Although there are many types of begonias, as a group they are easy to grow because they are low maintenance plants. The plants in this article grow best in part shade outside or bright light indoors. The begonias thrive in an all-purpose prepackaged potting soil that should be watered thoroughly once per week.

Trailing Begonia in a Hanging Basket

The Begonia fagifolia is a beechleaf begonia with fleshy stems that meander rather than hang from a container. The stems grow 6" - 8" long. The leaves have a felted pebbly texture but still are shiny green. The late winter flower clusters are white.

Beechleaf begonia is not a fast grower nor do the stems grow long. The hanging basket for this plant can be as small as 6" diameter. Suspend the basket away from direct afternoon sun.

Flowering Cane Type Begonia

The Begonia 'Peppermint Sabers' is an upright cane-type plant that grows to 10" tall. The glossy foliage ages to a dark forest green above and a deep burgundy underneath, young pale leaves are a spotted green. The sharp angel wing shaped leaves has dentated edges. The petite double flowers are dark red and white striped.

Cane-type begonias are grown for their flowers as well as the dramatic leaves. These begonias can grow large as they age, especially spending summer outside. However, Begonia 'Peppermint Sabers' is a short plant that can be easily planted in a 6" pot for an indoor garden.

Rex Begonia Houseplant

Begonia rhizomatous 'River Nile' is a rex begonia plant that grows to 12" tall. The lime-green leaves have dark reddish bronze margins that are more distinct in the younger leaves. The flowers are mauve. This plant is hardy in zone 9, outside all year.

Rex begonia plants have many shapes and sizes. Begonia rhizomatous 'River Nile' remains relatively small. A 6" - 8" sized pot will allow this plant to grow well for a couple of years.

The variety of begonias makes it easy to find one suitable for a container plant combination in most outside locations. An annual plant combination using an angel wind begonia is just one of many ideas for gardeners to consider.

Which Bauer Gear is Good for You?

Kavi GupptaKavi Guppta — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 17:52:36 +0000

A Selection of Hockey Skates

Some may be awaiting the first snowfall of the season, and there may not be any ice out there, but it's never too early to gear up for the winter ahead. Perusing your local sports stores for a new pair of hockey skates can be a very tricky task.

There's a lot of selection out there when it comes to ice skates, but Bauer has a pretty interesting product line, and their storied Canadian past can be a decisive factor for hockey loving canucks.

If you're unsure of where to start when it comes to buying skates, let alone Bauer skates, this article will break down some of their products. Hopefully it'll help with your decision!

Bauer Vapor and Supreme Skates

Bauer's main line up of skates this season is centered around the Vapor and Supreme lines.

The Vapor line is sold in 3 distinct categories: junior, youth and senior. Model numbers vary, but popular versions (this season) consist of the 05, 15, 20, 30 and 40 versions.

Each skate in this line has the following features, with higher range models tweaked to incorporate even better technology:

Sublimated reinforced mesh with thermoformed x-rib pattern (thermoforming is the moulding process that gives the skates their unique look)
Brushed nylon lining material
Exterior embossed heel cup/ankle support
Closed-cell foam ankle padding
Anatomical 1-piece felt for tongue construction
Standard comfort footbed
Tuuk Lightspeed Pro with stainless steel runner (Tuuk is a popular choice used by many greats on the ice)

The Supreme models evolve in the same way, but the look and feel of the skates have a more classic approach. The Bauer Supreme One 90 model has a series of features that aid it's lightweight engineering:

3D thermoformed Tech Mesh Quarter Package
Hydrophobic Clarino synthetic leather lining
Exterior dual density heel wedge
Lightweight Insta-form foam ankle pads
Precision molded anatomical tongue with high-density metatarsal guard
Composite power channel construction
Full upper thermoformable footbed

NHL Digest distinguishes these as "upper features". Some "lower features" include:

Perforated, full texallium composite outsole
Tuuk Lightspeed 2 POWER with solid steel runner

It's hard to say which line is more popular, but many store attendants say the Supreme One 90 model is more preferred than the recent Vapor line. The pros tend to wear skates that look good, and that's becoming a growing trend in the market. It also depends on what the player endorses.

Most major sports stores will hold both models. Remember to take a look at their website to see if it's in stock. It'll save time and you won't have to trek out into the cold to return home empty handed!

How to Choose the Best Winter Coat

Pat JacobsPat Jacobs — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 17:26:12 +0000

Jacket Styles for All Body Shapes and Sizes

When shopping for a new winter coat or jacket, you'll want to consider quality, fit and fabric.

And with the various different styles that abound, anyone can find something flattering.

Things to Consider when Choosing a Winter Coat

Does the collar stand up (for protection from the wind)?
Is it easy to cross my arms? (If not, go up a size larger to allow room for sweaters).
Are the buttons adjustable?
What's the right fabric for your particular cold-weather needs?
Is the coat durable and fully lined? (A full lining protects the coat from wear and tear).

Winter Jacket Materials

100% cashmere drapes nicely and is very soft and durable. It'll last for several years and is best for temperatures from 51-65 degrees F.
Thermolite and Thinsulate consist of high-tech lightweight materials that provide the warmth of down without that "puffy" sensation. They're sleek, durable and comfortable.
Faux fur's a combination of acrylic fibers. It looks like real fur, but a fraction of the cost. Use for temperatures below 32 degrees F.
Goose down is more dense than traditional duck down; it's the fluffiest and the warmest of the feather downs because it traps more air. It's also good for below 32 degree temperatures.
Wool is durable, and resists pulling and abrasion. But wool may cause some to itch or have an allergic reaction. It works best for 33-50 degrees F.

What Style of Coat is Best for Your Shape?

If you're got a full bust, waist and upper back, your best coat will be the seven-eighths length. It stretches your entire body so you look taller and thinner. A duffel coat is also good for your shape, as well as a long, narrow one in a dark color.
Do you want to create curves? Are your hips, waist and bust similar in size? Get a wrap coat. The belt will cinch in your waist and the deep V-neckline will add width and emphasize your upper torso.
Consider an A-line coat if you're curvy with a small waist. The fitted shape will skin and trim over curves without adding bulk. This coat will also hide your hips and de-emphasize a large bust.
A classic pea coat will slim down hips, broaden the shoulders and skim over any problem areas. And if you're heavier on the bottom than on top, the pea coat will balance your proportions.

When to Buy a Winter Coat

There are good sales on winter coats now, but if you wait until January, savings can soar to 70% off!

CubeCrash Stategies to Zap Your Game

William WhiteWilliam White — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 03:06:15 +0000

Raise Your Point Level in this Facebook Hit

CubeCrash is the addictive Facebook game that makes you burn your supper and stay up way past your bedtime. How infuriating! But way too fun to stop.

It's a game that is best compared to Tetris with the same addictive qualities. The game is over quickly, but you always try one more time to beat your score.

If you are like most people, you can make it to approximately 50,000 points, if you persist. But here are the secrets to double your score. Regularly make it to 100,000 each week. So let's look at some simple tips to double your game.

Getting the High Score Each Level

Your goal is to get 15,000 points per level. That's right, 15,000. It is very important for the first 2 levels because they set up the rest of the game.

The only way to get this number of points is to get them all at once. When you click on 3 consecutive tiles, you get 55 points at 18.3 points per tile. And you get 90 points for 4 tiles at 22.5 per tile. Obviously, the value per tile goes up depending on the number of consecutive tiles in the group.

48 Tiles for 12015 points

49 Tiles for 12510 points

50 Tiles for 13015 points

51 Tiles for 13530 points

52 Tiles for 14055 points

53 Tiles for 14590 points

54 Tiles for 15135 points

Pick a Color

Your goal is to click on a large group of consecutively colored tiles, and you do this by eliminating the other colors.

In the first part of the game, there are only red, green and purple tiles. You need to select the color that has the highest number of tiles showing. This isn't always easy to do.

Once you have chosen your strategy color, eliminate the rest. Don't worry if you do it in 3s or 4s or 6s, just eliminate them. Your big score will come at the end of the level. Of course, if you have the chance to pick off a large group, then do it. It's just not a priority.

Elimination Strategy

You do need to put some thought into how you eliminate the non-strategy colors. This is called "collapsing the board". You want to start at the top of the board and select an a group of tiles that will let you dop your strategy-colored tiles onto other strategy-colored tiles. So if red is your strategy color, then you would click on any group of green or purple tiles that are under some red colored tiles.

Do not worry about non-strategy colored tiles on top. Just concentrate on collapsing the strategy colors onto each other creating 1 big block. Likewise, do not worry about eliminating the non-strategy colors underneath. Just look at the target group you are accumulating and be satisfied if they are all consecutive. They do not have to be on the bottom row, just consecutive.

That being said, evaluate every group you eliminate. If the group is not interfering with your major block, do not eliminate it. Just look ahead and use your best judgement.

Reset

And one last, important point. Don't be afraid to hit the "New Game" button. Especially in the first 2 levels, restart the game any time the collapse is not working. This is faster than finishing a game and will give you more chances to hit the 15,000 mark.

If you follow these simple CubeCrash strategies, you should have no problem achieving that 100,000 mark of this popular Facebook game.

How to Avoid Work at Home Scams

R HaswellR Haswell — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 17:28:16 +0000

Legitimate Online Jobs and Opportunities

Work at home scams are hard to understand for internet newcomers. There are numerous online job scams that are easy to spot when you understand how they work. Here are some tips to help you identify work at home scams.

Work at Home Opportunities

Work at home opportunities are not always a job with a paycheck. Coming from the corporate world this concept takes a while to embrace. All work at home jobs will hire employees or independent contractors. Employees oftentimes don't receive benefits from the employer. Independent contractors are simply paid a set wage and are expected to operate as a self employed person at tax time.

Work at Home Jobs

Spot work at home jobs by always reading thoroughly before applying. If the position asks for money it is a scam. The only jobs that require money are some independent contractor positions that ask for a background check fee. This information usually is posted on the website and can be confirmed in work at home forums as being legit. There may be costs involved with securing phone lines, computers, and head sets to be able to perform an at home job.

Unpaid Training

Some legit employers do not have paid training. Always confirm that time worked in training will be paid if that is important to you. Some people do free training in exchange for promised incentives upon completion . Examples of this are VIP Desk some clients they work with offer unpaid training, but do give m onetary incentives for those who complete the training and start working.

Job List Scams

There are ebooks online that teach you how to earn money or how to understand the steps in a specific business model. Job lists are often presented in ebook formats. Avoid paying for job lists of real work at home employers. Never pay for someone to give a state wide list or nationwide list of places that potentially may hire you. One good resource of free work at home job listings is Rat Race Rebellion.

Personal Information

Job boards and websites that accept resumes are not always safe. When posting resumes think about personal safety and security. Posting a resume linked to your profile should not include street address or a home phone number. A quick reverse phone search will let everyone who views the profile know your location.

It is possible to showcase work experience and education without divulging too much information. Avoid sending a social security number to numerous potential jobs. Many people unknowingly are sending all of their personal information to employers that do not exist. Many job boards let anyone who pays receive applications. Thieves have caught on to this and are selling information of unknowing job seekers. Legit work at home jobs may contact you by phone, conduct an interview, or request a background check upon hire. Always double check the validity of a business before giving out social security information.

Start applying for real work at home jobs. Frequent job boards, Craigslist and try to apply for 3 jobs a day. Take up side jobs such as writing articles, doing surveys or freelance work to make ends meet. Use these tips to secure internet employment.

How to Grow Hair More Quickly

R HaswellR Haswell — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 17:02:12 +0000

Supplement Secrets for a Full Head of Hair

Growing hair is challenging for many different reasons. There are hair textures which are naturally dry and more prone to hair breakage. Highly textured curly hair and afro hair may appear to not grow. The hair may continue to coil and shrink giving the false appearance that no hair growth has occurred. Here are some tips on how to grow your hair more quickly.

Hair Type

Curly and straight hair can be course, kinky, or fine. A clean scalp is the best surface to encourage hair growth. Daily shampoo washing can dry out curly and course hair textures. Instead, rinse after exercise and when showering with conditioner. Save the shampoo for once a week. Choose a shampoo that does not contain sodium laurel sulfate. Deep condition your hair once a week to encourage hair growth. Concentrate the conditioner on the ends of the hair.

Retain the ends of the hair by paying special attention to protect the hair. Coat the ends of the hair with jojoba oil. Jojoba oil is the only fruit oil that is compareble to natural scalp producing oils. Sleep on a silk or satin pillow case, or tie the hair in a silk or satin bonnet. Avoid cotton scarves, pillows, and bonnets for hair protection at night. Cotton eats away at the hair line. The clothes you wear can also cause hair breakage. Drape a large square scarf over the collar of wool coats or scratchy fabrics to prevent hair loss. The friction of the hair against certain fabrics will break off the hair.

Hair Growth Supplements

Biotin helps to accelerate the growth of hair thoughout the entire body. It will not make hair grow in new places. Expect to shave and wax more often when consuming biotin. Fish oil and flax seed oil are rich in omega 3 fatty acids. These supplements help hair and skin repair itself and grow faster. Prenatal vitamins can be consumed by people who are not expecting. There may be some vitamins that are lacking within diet or through food consumption.

Drink several glasses of water throughout the day. Supplements work well when the body is properly hydrated. Use these tips to grow hair quicker, and retain current hair. If the hair is extremely curly or kinky stretch a section to show the true length to chart hair growth progress.

Healthy Weight Loss Tips for Winter

Queenly LeeQueenly Lee — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 22:28:29 +0000

Trim and Cleanse Your Body for the Holidays

In fall and winter, when the days get shorter and the weather gets cooler, the body's metabolism tends to slow down as well. Incorporating just a few slimming and cleansing tips into your daily routine now will help keep your energy level boosted through the winter and help you feel great as you enter the busy holiday season.

Lose Weight through Controlled Meal Portions and Frequency

It is not just about what you eat, but how and when you eat it, that makes the difference. Skipping meals is not an ideal way to loose weight, because repressing your appetite causes you to binge eat. Instead, always eat a high protein and nutritious breakfast to warm up your metabolism and to energize your body for the day. Also, steer away from eating rich, heavy meals after 9:00 pm, because your metabolism starts to slow down at that time, so the food you eat may not be fully digested and could end up sitting in your system all night long.

Eating small and frequent meals throughout the day is better for your metabolism and your energy level than eating less frequent, large meals. Big portions of food usually make you feel tired, because most of your energy goes to your digestive system. Consuming small, frequent portions of food consistently works your metabolism, keeping it active and alert.

Boost Your Metabolism with Easy Exercises

Exercising is excellent for burning excess calories and increasing your energy level. It is important to do what makes your body feel good. As long as you're moving your body, you're exercising!

Start with a small set of 50 crunches to strengthen your core. After a week or so, you will get stronger and automatically do more crunches and perhaps incorporate more movement, such as gentle push ups and stretches to relax and loosen your body.

Cleansing with Water and Organics

An effective daily cleanse is to drink a big glass of water (at room temperature) each morning right after you wake up. As you sleep through the night, your energy goes toward repairing your organs. Drinking a glass of water first thing in the morning flushes accumulated toxins out of your body. For a stronger cleanse, squeeze a couple slices of lemon into your glass of water.

Eating free range, organically grown animal products or cutting down your consumption of animal products each day will drastically decrease the amount of toxins entering your system. A majority of meat products sold in grocery stores are factory farmed. Animals grown in factory farms are extremely cramped in stalls or cages, resulting in unhealthy animals that require large amounts of antibiotics to kill diseases and hormones to force growth. Consuming high doses of antibiotics and hormones through eggs, milk or meat products puts a strain on your liver and kidneys, and weakens your immune system.

Decreasing refined sugar consumption will greatly help strengthen your immune system and help you keep the pounds off. According to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) surveys, 20 percent or more of the daily calories for a quarter of adult women come from refined sugar. Refined sugars cause overeating habits and leach nutrients from the body. Thus, satisfy your sweet cravings with natural sugars such as honey, maple syrup or sweet dates.

Green Package Wrap Ideas

CherieBurbachCherieBurbach — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 18:37:30 +0000

Recycling Ideas for Pleasant Looking Gifts

Why leave a pile of torn wrapping paper on the floor at the end of a holiday get-together? The following igreen wrapping ideas save money and trees while still being practical.

Wrap Presents in Towels

Choose a color your recipient likes and wrap your gift in a bath towel. Use a corresponding washcloth as a bow for the top. For a special touch, embroider your recipient's initials on the edge to personalize your wrap even more.

Newspaper Wrapping Paper

Use sections of newspaper that correspond to the gift or personality of the recipient. For example, if giving a gift to an accountant, use the financial section or stock listings. Wrap home-related items in the lifestyle or decorating section. Use comics for the young at heart.

Put Presents in Boxes

Reuse moving or package boxes as gift wrap. If gifts were ordered online, use the same box rather than throwing it in the trash. Grab some markers and crayons to decorate boxes for a fun touch.

Old Vases

Everyone seems to have an old vase that no longer gets any use. Rather than throw it out, use it to place smaller gifts such as jewelry, ties, or even certificates. Put a piece of tissue paper or newspaper inside to hide the gifts from immediate view.

Lunch Bags

If you have a few brown lunch bags around, use them in place of gift bags. Spruce them up with stickers or stamps. Or, for an even more personal touch, print off favorite photos on regular paper and paste them to the outside of the bag.

Tins

Got a few of those holiday tins from the previous year? They probably came with baked goods inside, but rather than fire up the oven, use tins to make a lovely package covering. Place smaller gifts like CDs or movies inside.

Cloth Napkins and Tablecloths

Reuse napkins and tablecloths by wrapping a box of candy or bottle of wine. Use a festive holiday pattern for an extra special touch. Tie the ends of fabric with a simple knot to complete the offering.

Scrapbook Paper

Use odd papers and supplies from a scrapbooking hobby that won't fit with other craft projects as a way to provide colorful wrapping for gifts. Make the wrap extra special by including brochures, photos, or journaling as you would a scrapbook page.

Sweatshirts or T-Shirts

If you're giving your recipient a piece of clothing among other presents, use a sweatshirt or tee as wrapping for the other gift. Or, find a clothing item that has special significance for your recipient. If you've got a sports fan to buy for, wrap their gift in an old jersey. Pop culture buffs might like a tee with graphic details from music or television.

Frugal Ways to Decorate Your Apartment

CherieBurbachCherieBurbach — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 18:32:38 +0000

Paint, Fabric and Canvas Budget Solutions

After the excitement of finally getting your own place wears down, you might find that the amount of furniture you have is limited at best. If your budget is small, the following strategies will help you make the most of your decorating dollar.

Using Canvas

Since painting is usually against your lease when you rent, opt for canvases as a way to add color to your walls. Large canvases can be purchased at art or hobby stores, and you don't need to be artistically inclined in order to decorate them. Fill up that white space with a collage, one solid block of color, or even fabric. Hang one large piece separately or a grouping of three to make an impact.

Slipcovers

When folks move out for the first time, they tend to get offered leftover furniture and hand-me-downs from friends and relatives. Before you turn down these offers, however, see if someone else's used furniture might be usable in your own place. Check out the durability of the couch, not color or style. If you find that a couch or chair is in great condition, opt for a slipcover.

Painting Furniture

If you find a great piece of wooden or plastic furniture that just needs some updating, pick it up. Make sure to prime the piece before you paint it, and then choose a flat paint color to compliment the décor of your place. Spray paint is usually a better alternative for painting furniture as it doesn't leave brush marks. For plastic pieces, look for special paint that not only covers the furniture, but gives it a protective coat as well.

Recovering Furniture

Covering over used furniture is not as difficult as it appears. All you need is a staple gun and some fabric in most cases. Choose a chair in good condition and remove the seat by unscrewing at the point it is connected to the legs. Remove the seat and place on a piece of fabric. Cut around the fabric, leaving room to pull up the edges onto the backside of the seat.

Take the staple gun and secure fabric down all the way around the seat. Pull it tightly around the entire seat. Turn it over to ensure fabric is placed the way you want it, and reattach by screwing it back to base of the chair. Cut off any excess fabric that might be showing.

Don't forget to check out flea markets or rummage sales to find the best possible deals on gently used furniture. With a little elbow grease and some creativity, you can have a completely unique space suited especially to your personality.

Date Stories in Have I Got a Guy for You

CherieBurbachCherieBurbach — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 18:26:34 +0000

Uplifting Tales of Blind Dates Set up by Mom

In an age when relationship books are filled with serious information on how to find a man, this delightful collection entitled Have I Got a Guy for You entertains with real-life blind date disasters, all arranged with the help of dear old mom.

The Complicated Mother-Daughter Relationship

There are two things single women despise: Being asked about their relationship status and being set up by their mom. The mother-daughter bond is a complicated one to say the least, and the stories laid out in this collection only serve to highlight this fact.

One mother, for example, wrote to the producer of Live with Regis & Kathie Lee, and included her daughter's picture and phone number in an effort to set her daughter up with the show's producer, Michael Gelman. Another setup included a couch potato teacher, while yet a different mother arranged for her daughter to go out with her cousin by marriage.

Contemporary Authors Offer Personal Stories

The stories listed are from today's contemporary authors, including Brenda Scott Royce, Leora Klein, Sara Barron, Lois Barth, Benita Gold and more. Each story is a quick read, written with snappy dialog and independent-minded soulfulness. Women everywhere will be able to relate to these stories and find a bit of themselves in the emotion.

Uplifting Stories That Encourage Single Women

One refreshing aspect to the book is that rather than just complaining about the setups, each woman also conveys a sense of autonomy and commitment to the desire of finding the right guy. Each of these women isn't willing to settle for any old someone, she is holding out for the perfect person for her. It's this desire that persuades her to be set up by her mom to begin with.

Rather than just commiserating, however, there is enough introspection to allow the reader to pull for the single gal, instead of pity her. Social satirist Alix Strauss edited the collection, which undoubtedly aided in the funny and uplifting nature of the stories. Strauss has written a host of articles on everything from beauty to food to celebrity interviews.

Have I Got a Guy for You [Polka Dot Press, 2008], ends on a happy note, with a reminder that moms only wants the best for their daughters, and sometimes moms are even right about the guys their daughter need. The book would make a darling gift for single friends, or even perhaps the mother than means well with her setups.

Walking Rainforest Tours in St. Kitts

Nick FaragherNick Faragher — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 02:25:16 +0000

Caribbean Eco Tours with Greg's Safaris

The Caribbean rainforest in St. Kitts is one of the few areas in the world where the rainforest is expanding and not contracting. With elevation up to 3,800 feet, the high points are commonly wreathed in cloud, which condense as rain on the canopy below.

But if you're on a St. Kitts rainforest tour with Greg's Safaris, you might hear the rain, but under the rainforest's vibrant green umbrella you won't feel it.

Greg's Safaris Let You Experience the Rainforest First-hand

From pick-up at your hotel at 8:30 am, Greg's Safaris offers half-day excursion in two open safari-style Land-Rovers, which are ideally suited to the terrain. The antiquity of the vehicles is part of their charm and the rigidity of their suspensions is a stimulating wake-up.

The trail is at no time arduous but does require a minimal level of agility and sure-footedness, particularly over a couple of slippery sections of falling grade. Wear running shoes at least, trail/hiking shoes are better.

As you work your way through the St. Kitts rainforest terrain, you will be introduced to the mamseport, the windsong tree, the ficus, the tall and slender trumpet tree. For those with a taste for gin-and-tonics, there is the sweetwood tree and its gin-scented berries, and you cannot miss the ginger-lilly, brilliant against the tropical green backdrop. And if your growing bar bill back at the hotel is aggravating your high blood pressure, you will be introduced to the christophene plant, lauded locally for its reputed ameliorating effects on that condition and readily available in Basseterre.

One thing you will not be introduced to on the tour are snakes, stinging insects or large predatory animals; there are none. But stay away from the ant-hills, the little buggers are not nice.

Greg's Safaris Founder

Your host, Greg, is part of a well-known St. Kitts island family going back five generations, and there is little about island history and the indigenous flora and fauna that he is not familiar with. Greg has been running Greg's Safaris for 22 years, the last 16 of these with the equally well-versed Joseph, his guiding partner.

The groups can never be larger than the passenger capacity of the two vehicles, and with Greg and Joseph bracketing the guests throughout the tour, all participants have the opportunity to hear explanations and ask questions.

History of St. Kitts

Located in the Leeward Island chain, the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis has a history of being among the very earliest of the islands settled by Europeans. As is the case with many of the islands, tourism has become the principal source of revenue, but the earlier reliance on sugar is much in evidence in the old plantations that dot the islands. Between these, the fort at Brimstone Hill and the frequent festivals and carnivals, there is much to see and do on the islands.

Kaufman's Directorial Debut In New York

Mason W. FouksMason W. Fouks — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 07:49:26 +0000

First Film is a Giant Synecdoche.

Its always surprising to re-realize that Charlie Kaufman isn't Canadian. Like most cinema coming from Canada, Charlie Kaufman's work is bitterly honest about the human condition, somewhat "every man is an island" isolationist and, of course-- the mainstay of Canadian film-- depressing and moot. This point is made begrudgingly, of course, and while generalizing.

But to see Kaufman be interviewed, its easy to forget his American heritage. He sits there, meek and polite. Hands folded, he answers the questions asked of him and never embellishes the story. He seems to be the epitome of Canadian stereotypes. And he's a brilliant, so he gets away with it.

Synecdoche, New York

His latest film, Synecdoche, New York, is about a theatre director who is depressed, sick and suffering in the worst way who gets a huge grant to do something brilliant. He decides to do a play that's a giant mirror to real life while trying to find contentment, fight his demons and battle his over-powering loneliness over many years.

If the film was only set in Toronto, it could easily pass as a totally Canadian production. The fact that Philip Seymour Hoffman is originally from Rochester, New York would be as ignorable as Joshua Jackson being born in British Columbia.

By the way, "Synecdoche" is a word that denotes a part of a thing that refers to the whole, the whole thing that refers only to a part of it and so on and so forth like that. As in a hired "pair of hands" or nicknaming someone "legs." The title is meant as a juxtaposition to the city of Schenectady, New York-- where the film is set.

Charlie Kaufman's directorial debut showcases that he knows what to do and is still brilliant at it. The strengths of this film come from all aspects of it. The cast, the script, the sets... all golden. The only flaws is that most of the unwashed masses may see in it is the depressing and moot tone.

Top Hostels in Cairns, Australia

Alison StraceyAlison Stracey — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 19:02:05 +0000

Affordable Budget Accommodation in Queensland

Cairns is a top holiday destination for many tourists, including backpackers. The tourist town features many overnight budget options that provide high-quality accommodation while being the perfect base to start your holiday.

Cairns is most famous for the surrounding Reef and Rainforest, both World Heritage protected sites.

Hostel tour desks provide information and can book great tours ideal for the experience you are after. Maybe spend a day on the Great Barrier Reef or travel to Kuranda village by the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and returning by Kuranda Scenic Rail.

Getting to Cairns from the Airport

Cairns City is approximately 10 km from the domestic and international airports. Shuttle buses provide one-way transfers direct to hostels for $8 per person. Bookings are not required, but are recommended.

Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel and Resort

Gilligan's Backpackers Hotel and Resort is one of the newest and largest budget accommodation options in Cairns. It is only a short walk to the Cairns Esplanade, shops and restaurants located close by. Gilligans has more than 500 rooms but fills up fast due to demand and popularity in the peak season between May and September.

Dorm rooms of 4, 6 and 8 beds as well as hotel rooms are available. Rates for dorm accommodation start at $25 per night. All rooms are air-conditioned and have ensuites.

Other facilities at Gilligan's include each floor having its own full kitchen, TV room, guest laundry, gaming area, gym, tour desk, high-speed Internet and 24-hour security and reception. There is a secure luggage room for you to store your luggage if you arrive early or are leaving late and a large lagoon-style swimming pool with waterfall.

Gilligan's is also home to the largest entertainment venue in Cairns. Gilligan's bar and club is popular with both tourists and locals on the weekends, making a stay at the hostel sometimes a noisy experience. However, if you are in Cairns to have a good time you will enjoy the deck bar by the lagoon pool and main bar.

Cairns Central YHA Backpackers Hostel

Cairns Central YHA Backpackers Hostel is another great budget accommodation option when visiting Cairns. It is also located in the heart of Cairns, opposite Cairns Central Shopping Centre.

Dorm, twin, double and family rooms are available. All rooms are air-conditioned and some have ensuites. Dorm rooms start from $26 per night and $23 per night for YHA members.

Other facilities at the YHA include full kitchen, TV room, guest laundry, gaming area, tour desk, Internet cafe, indoor and outdoor dining area. This hostel also has a swimming pool and secure luggage room. If you are looking for a top hostel that is a bit quieter, the Cairns Central YHA is the perfect choice.

Budget accommodation such as Gilligan's Backpackers Hostel and Resort and the Cairns Central YHA Backpackers Hotel make a Far North Queensland holiday in Cairns affordable for every budget.

The Cowboys Take on the Eagles in Week 9

Andy TownsendAndy Townsend — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 22:45:00 +0000

NFL Ramping up: Ravens Take on the Bengals

Week 8 in the NFL was an interesting one, the Giants lost their third straight game after starting the season 5-0; Favre got his revenge with a win in Green Bay, and the Saints and Colts remained unbeaten.

Week 9 features several marquee games and could be vital for teams jockeying for playoff position.

Here are the picks for this week.

Dallas Cowboys at Philadelphia Eagles

Why the Cowboys win - The Cowboys defense is able to get to Donovan McNabb and Terrance Newman is able to keep DeSean Jackson from making the big play. Brian Westbrook is not healthy which will help the Dallas defense, but Tony Romo taking care of the football will be the biggest reason the Cowboys win.

Why the Eagles win - The Eagles defense wins on first down limiting the Cowboys options offensively and defensively. Jackson can score in multiple facets, and historically, Dallas will give up the big play to Philly. Playing at "The Linc" will be the biggest factor; it is going to be loud and on national television.

Final Result - Eagles 34 Dallas 17

Baltimore Ravens at Cincinnati Bengals

Why the Ravens win - After the Bengals beat Baltimore in the last minute of the game earlier this season, the Ravens will have revenge on their minds. The Ravens will be flying high after coming off a huge victory against Denver last week. Ray Lewis will make sure his defense controls Cedric Benson this time around.

Why the Bengals win - The Bengals are fresh coming off a bye week, their top pick Andre Smith is getting healthy and they are at home. Chad Ocho Cinco is a matchup problem for the Ravens secondary, which is definitely the weak spot of the Ravens defense.

Final Result - Baltimore 20 Cincinnati 10

Pittsburgh Steelers at Denver Broncos (Monday Night Football)

Why the Steelers win - The Ravens exposed the Broncos defensively and the Steelers are well coached so look for them to use some of the things the Ravens did with Ray Rice with their running back Rashard Mendenhall. Steeler's defense is an overwhelming unit and will force turnovers.

Why the Broncos win - Altitude will make a difference, the Broncos running game wears down the Steelers defense opening up some big play strikes to Brandon Marshall. Matt Prater has been a solid kicker and his kicks will make the difference.

Final Result- Pittsburgh 24 Denver 21

Upset Pick of the Week:

Tennessee 23 San Francisco 20

Other Results:

Arizona 24 Chicago 21

Green Bay 27 Tampa Bay 17

Indianapolis 28 Houston 21

Jacksonville 24 Kansas City 14

New England 31 Miami 24

Atlanta 17 Washington 10

New Orleans 34 Carolina 21

Seattle 21 Detroit 10

New York (N) 27 San Diego 17

Last Week: 10-3

Overall: 80-36

Bye Week Teams: Vikings, Jets, Browns, Bills, Raiders, Rams

Basics of Flea Market Shopping

CherieBurbachCherieBurbach — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 22:22:23 +0000

A Beginners Guide to Swap Meets

If you have never been to a flea market, it can seem intimidating at first to peruse the hundreds of booths in search of the right item at the right price. However, don't let apprehension hold you back. Instead, here are a few quick tips to help you browse your first flea market with success.

Where to Find Flea Markets in Your Area

Perhaps the first matter of business when shopping a flea market is knowing where to find one. While there are many large and well-known markets throughout the US, even the smaller ones can be a treasure trove of items. An Internet search indicating "flea markets" or "swap meet" along with "your state" can help you find current events. Your local chamber of commerce should also be of help in this area.

What to Bring to the Swap Meet

Comfortable shoes and several layers of clothing are a must. You'll be walking for a long time and will need the support for your feet. Carry a windbreaker you can easily take off, as well as a T-shirt and sweatshirt to help you adjust to changing weather. Don't forget the sunscreen and a hat to protect you from the sun.

In addition, a pull cart or recyclable shopping bag will save you from trekking back to the car with your purchases. Don't forget to measure various areas of your house to make sure any furniture you buy will fit. Most of all, bring plenty of cash (with lots of smaller bills), as most vendors won't accept checks or credit cards.

Negotiate Flea Market Prices

If you see something you like, don't be afraid to ask the vendor if the price marked is the best he or she can do. They expect negotiation from customers at flea markets. Make sure you don't show too much excitement when looking at the item, or they will know you are already going to buy it. Instead, keep your face neutral and be prepared to offer an alternative price.

Arrive Early for the Best Items

There are two schools of thought when it comes to flea markets. The most popular (and most successful) advice is to arrive early - when the flea market first opens its doors. This will mean getting up in the wee hours of the morning to allow for driving and parking time. Being one of the first customers through the door will give you first shot at the items for sale.

As you become a more experienced shopper, however, you may want to consider arriving just before the market closes. This approach is likely to net you the best deals, as sellers are trying to pack up for the night. Most vendors would rather sell an item than have to travel with it back to their stores. However, by arriving late you will also run the risk that items you desire will already be sold.

2009 Winter Makeup Trends

Pat JacobsPat Jacobs — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 19:00:28 +0000

Celebrity Makeup Artist Belinda Moss' Tips

Celebrity makeup artist Belinda Moss (she's worked her magic on Eva Longoria, Giselle Bundchen, Mariah Carey, Scarlett Johansson, Norah Jones and Beyonce among others) loves this winter's new must-have look of pale eyes and berry-red lips.

Here are her tips to help you pull off your own state of fabulous!

Makeup Tips for Face

"For the face, start with a concealer that's one shade lighter than your foundation. Make sure you blend out; you don't want 'raccoon eyes'. For a healthy-looking skin tone, apply a cream blush in light pinks or peaches to the apples of the cheeks," said Moss. "After that, then sculpt the face with a bronzer in the hollow of cheeks and jawline."

Her secret tip: Dust powder on the face with a big fat fluffy brush to set it.

Eye Makeup Tips

"Pale eyes are classic," Moss stated. "To achieve this, go for a vanilla base and smudge dark brown eyeshadow as a liner in the lash line over the entire lid and up into the crease. Always curl lashes before applying mascara because you could break your lashes if done afterwards. Use two coats of mascara and a little hit on the bottom middle lashes for some drama."

Winter Lip Colors

For your lips this winter, go with berry shades like raspberry.

An excellent anti-feathering lip base is probably already in your bag…your concealer or liquid foundation. Apply this facial makeup to the outside edge of the lips to help prevent the lip color from bleeding onto the surrounding skin.

Apply a coat of lip balm with SPF 20 to help condition your lips and protect them from sun damage. Lip balm will soften and moisturize the lips without making them waxy or greasy for the top coat of lipstick or lip gloss.

For a more sheer berry shade, look for a gloss with a hint of berry color and shimmer.

"If you're not a fan of berry colors, consider a more subtle shade, such as a metallic brownish lip tint," Moss advised. "It's a rich color that complements all skin tones and will accent your fall wardrobe. Get a tinted lip balm for sheer bronze color with a little shimmer; it's perfect to wear alone or under your favorite bronze lipstick to add a bit more shimmer. Apply some gloss for added shine."

Glamour to Go -- Makeup in 3 Minutes

Use a stick foundation. They offer the clean finish of a powder, the precision of a concealer and the natural-looking coverage of a liquid foundation.
Stroke directly onto the face and blend the color into the skin with your fingertips.
Use a dry makeup sponge to buff into skin.
For dramatic eyes use water/gel-based shadow/liner pencils with hydrating cucumber and aloe extracts.
Use a pale shade to fill in lids from lash line to crease. With fingertips, blend up to the brow bone.
Use a darker shadow/liner and draw a soft line right along the lash line. Thicken at the outer corners and gently smudge across the entire lid.
Curl lashes and top with mascara.
For complete lips in 3 minutes, the pigments in a lipstick transformer product will glam up your regular lipstick. Take your favorite shade, add a dab of blue, black or silver from the transformer. Now you have a holiday or special event version of your regular shade.
Use a lip brush to line lips, then fill in with your regular or favorite lipstick.
Wipe the brush clean and dip into one of the transformer colors. Apply directly to lips.
Add sparkle by applying translucent gloss to the center of your lips.

2010 "Year of the Métis" Declared in SK

Michael BellMichael Bell — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 01:50:00 +0000

Leader of Nation Hails Era of Reconciliation

The year 2010 will be known as the "Year of the Métis" in Saskatchewan, Canada.

The provincial declaration will acknowledge and celebrate the history and accomplishments of the Métis Nation and to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the 1885 Northwest Resistance, according to a provincial press release. Throughout 2010, monthly events will be held across Saskatchewan to highlight aspects of Métis culture and history. The declaration was recently made official during a public ceremony that was held in the Saskatchewan legislature on November 4th, 2009.

Year of the Métis Declared

The legislature's 2nd floor rotunda was filled with more than 100 visitors, numerous dignitaries and Métis dancers. Bill Hutchinson, minister of First Nations and Métis relations, presided over the ceremony and called on Premier Brad Wall to speak before the crowd.

Wall praised the leadership of Métis Nation president Robert Doucette, and referred to the legacy and contributions that Métis people have made to Saskatchewan and Canada.

"Sadly these contributions have gone (...) unheralded by the rest of us. Today we'll take at least a small step in changing that," Wall said. "It is my great pleasure to present the official proclamation announcing 2010 as the Year of the Métis."

At this the crowd burst with excited cheers and a lengthy applause.

The declaration is offered in the spirit of friendship, respect and a commitment to advance the priorities of the Métis Nation, Wall said.

"During the coming year, it's my sincere hope that we can raise awareness of the pivotal role the Métis have played in shaping this province, and the role they are going to play in the future in partnership with government and industry," Wall said.

Métis Cannot Turn Inward, but Must Move Forward

Robert Doucette was next to speak. Doucette referred to the Northwest Resistance as a low point for the Métis Nation. He added that the "Year of the Métis" declaration signalled the beginning of an era of reconciliation and interdependence.

"As Métis people, we cannot turn inward, but must move forward with the government and citizens of the province seeking common ground on common problems working together for common solutions," Doucette said.

The rest of Canada and its provinces can learn from this declaration, and should follow Saskatchewan's recognition of the Métis, Doucette said.

In an unguarded moment that elicited warm applause from the audience, Doucette said, "I'm shaking right now, because I'm just a man from Buffalo Narrows that was born in a little white hospital and I never thought I'd be here one day."

The ceremony ended with Métis music, dancing and gifts that Doucette, Wall and Hutchinson exchanged before reporters.

1885 Resistance Only Part of Métis History

Doucette later fielded questions from reporters and was asked what "The Year of the Métis" means in relation to Métis' identity and the Northwest Resistance.

There is a fixation on 1885 and the resistance, Doucette said. "What about the rest of the story?" Doucette referred to other Métis leaders like Joseph Dion (Alberta Métis leader from the 30s) and Joe "Z" LaRocque (Saskatchewan Métis leader from the 30s) and other Métis political advancements since 1885.

"God bless Louis Riel, and Gabriel and all of our ancestors for doing what they've done, but now, 2010 will ensure that the rest of the story is told, and for me that's great."

Visit Madeira for Canals and Vineyards

Wilma PatersonWilma Paterson — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 21:23:11 +0000

Semi Tropical Island Archipelago in Portugal

The archipelago of Madeira is a mere speck on the map southwest of Portugal, but closer to north Africa. The main island (Madeira) is verdant and semi-tropical, yet it has a Mediterranean feel, with terracotta roofs, steep terraced vineyards and olive groves. Madeira has long been popular with genteel middle-aged people, but its vertiginous terrain and deep surrounding ocean offers adventure too.

Portuguese is the spoken language, but English is widely understood except in the rural hinterland. Madeira is a low-crime, safe destination, the only real hazard being furious local driving on narrow, precipitous winding roads. The capital Funchal is a bustling cosmopolitan city with historic buildings, pretty parks and colourful markets.

Discover Madeira - Porto Santo, the 'Golden Isle'

Tiny Porto Santo, 25 miles to the northwest, is barren in comparison, but is known as the 'Golden Isle' because of its glorious sandy beaches (Madeira's are pebbly). Porto Santo is famous for thalassotherapy (seawater treatments) and the therapeutic properties of its sand in which rheumatism and arthritis sufferers bury themselves for 30 minutes at a time. The island's most illustrious resident was Christopher Columbus, who has his own festival in September.

What to Do in Madeira

Many of Madeira's visitors come to walk the levadas, a network of 1200 miles of mini canals, carved into the volcanic rock by African slaves, to take the rainfall from the high peaks to the sugar cane plantations. There are myriad levada routes through ancient eucalyptus and laurel forests to suit walkers of all levels: some are extremely demanding.

Serious thrill seekers can canyon in summer when the northern rivers are high, and there's all year round paragliding thanks to Madeira's stable climate and clear skies.

There are effortless panoramic views from the 15-minute cable car ride from Funchal to the Monte district with its famous Monte Palace Tropical Gardens and 18th-century Church of Igreja do Monte. For an exhilarating descent o Funchal, you can hire a two-seater wicker toboggan complete with two strapping carreiros in straw boaters - Madeira's version of Venetian gondoliers - to guide you down the steep road.

What to See in Madeira

The Old Blandy Wine Lodge, a former monastery, is where the fortified Madeira wine is matured, naturally heated in oak barrels in baking hot lofts. There's a guided tour and wine tastings. Funchal farmers' market sells exotic fresh flowers and agapanthus bulbs to take home. These beautiful blue or white flowers bloom all over the island. Traditional handmade embroidery is expensive but exquisite.

Eating and Drinking in Madeira

Eating out in Madeira is good value. Seafood is excellent and the island is awash with luscious fruit. Local specialities are lapadas - garlicky grilled limpets (great washed down with vinho verde), scabbard fish (espada), traditionally cooked with home-grown bananas, tuna (atum) and swordfish (espadarte). Carnivores relish the excellent espetada, (skewered beef). Afternoon tea on the terrace at legendary Reid's Palace Hotel where Winston Churchill stayed, is the Madeira equivalent of a Gin Sling at Raffles in Singapore. Coffee in Madeira's many cafés is excellent.

How to Avoid Acai Berry Marketing Scams

Cindy ClearyCindy Cleary — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:31:59 +0000

The Truth about Berries and their Nutrients

Acai berries have received a lot of media attention lately. Sensational ads and stories about weight loss, anti-aging and pain relief are all over the Internet. The berries and their exotic promise of easy weight loss and instant vitality have been featured on mainstream television shows including Oprah, Rachael Ray and CNN.

Are super juices and pills containing Acai (pronounced "ah-sigh-ee") the miracle of vitality, longevity and fast weight loss that so many sales pages tout? Are Acai berries truly "one of the most nutritious and powerful foods in the world" as claimed on Oprah's Web site?

All whole foods in their pure and unprocessed form have healing and often miraculous properties. The exotic berries - including Acai berries, elderberries, goji berry, mulberries, schizandra berry, goldenberries and bilberries - are each potent sources of antioxidants and each possess unique healing properties as outlined below. In fact, ALL berries - including the more common strawberries and blueberries - are anti-inflammatory and high in antioxidants!

Beware of Acai Berries' Marketing Scams

Many of these super berries, like the acai berries, do have compelling evidence of extraordinarily high levels of healing nutrients. And, like many traditional foods from remote regions, their healing properties have been enjoyed by indigenous people for many generations. Within a cleansing whole foods diet, they can provide many health benefits.

However, the evidence is not compelling enough to justify spending exorbitant amounts of money on exotic juices and supplements. Many of the companies marketing these products use questionable tactics as well - such as fake diet blogs or phony "expert" pages. This tactic is used to funnel readers into free trials that lead into a costly monthly commitment. Many of these products are of suspicious or unknown quality.

So be wary of all free trial offers and stories of people losing 30 pounds in 30 days by simply taking an Acai berry supplement. These unbelievable stories are not documented by credible sources. Even the more reputable network marketing companies who use high quality raw product sources usually market an Acai juice or goji juice blend that is mixed with other less potent juices and costs $40-$50 a bottle or $180-$200 for a monthly supply. That kind of money would be better spent on fresh, organic fruits and vegetables from your local market!

When you purchase Acai berries, buy them in as close to natural and pure form as possible - dried, powdered or juiced - without other fillers or additives. You may be able to find them at your local health food store, but be sure to look for 100% pure, organic, raw berries with NO additives.

To find out more about the unique healing properties of Acai and other exotic berries, how to use them and where to shop for them in pure form, read this full report on acai berries.

Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, Kuranda

Alison StraceyAlison Stracey — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:30:15 +0000

Rainforest Aviary Close to Cairns, Australia

The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary is located in the heart of Kuranda village, 30 minutes drive from Cairns, in Tropical North Queensland, Australia.

It is the largest butterfly enclosure in Australia and certainly worth visiting if in the area.

Australian Butterfly Sanctuary

The aviary was first opened in 1987 and is set in the Kuranda rainforest. All 1,500 tropical butterflies in the sanctuary are rainforest species and the aviary has been specially designed and maintained to resemble a natural rainforest environment. This includes a running stream and waterfall and all the plant species that the butterflies need to survive and reproduce.

The female butterflies deposit their eggs on food plants, and the eggs are then collected by staff and taken back to the laboratory where caterpillars are raised. Once they change into butterflies they are ready to be released back into the aviary.

Guided tours are available and take about 30 minutes. The tour includes the rainforest aviary and breeding laboratory where you learn about the life-cycle of a butterfly and its behaviour. The breeding laboratories hold between 3,000-4,000 caterpillars and about 30,000 caterpillars are bred in the laboratory each year.

The aviary is also home to the beautiful blue Ulysses butterfly, for which Far North Queensland is known. You will also see the green and yellow Cairns Birdwing butterfly, which is the largest butterfly in Australia.

Visiting the Sanctuary

The sanctuary is located at 8 Veivers Drive in the heart of Kuranda village. If you are visiting Kuranda as part of your Skyrail or Scenic Rail experience, the sanctuary is easy to find and a short walk from other attractions and shops in Kuranda.

Open daily from 10am - 4pm except Christmas day, admission is $16 for adults, $8 for children or $40 for a family of 2 adults and 2 children. Admission to the Butterfly Sanctuary includes a guided tour of the aviary and breeding laboratory.

Make sure you are prepared for your visit and wear bright colours. Butterflies are attracted to flowers because of the colour of the petals. Wearing red or white is recommended if you want a close encounter with some butterflies!

Saints Still Best in Playoff Contention

Andy TownsendAndy Townsend — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 21:28:26 +0000

Colts, Vikings, Steelers, Broncos in Top Five

There are only two undefeated teams and one defeated team left in the NFL. Some teams have a pretty good idea of where there they stack up in the race for the playoffs.

Here is a breakdown of the contenders, pretenders, and everybody else.

NFL Playoff Contenders

1. New Orleans Saints (7-0) - Saints defense has scored more touchdowns (6) than the Cleveland Browns offense (5). Previously #1

2. Indianapolis Colts (7-0) - A win on Sunday against the Texans will give them a five-game lead counting tie breakers. Previously #2

3. Minnesota Vikings (6-1) - This is a team that knows how to finish games. Previously #5

4. Pittsburgh Steelers (5-2) - May be the most complete team in football. Previously #4

5. Denver Broncos (6-1) - Despite the loss to the Ravens, the Broncos still have the best defense statistically. Previously #3

In the Hunt

6. New England Patriots (5-2) - Tom Brady and company will look to impose their will on teams in the second half of the season. Previously #6

7. Cincinnati Bengals (5-2) - Chad Ocho Cinco looks to be back to his pro bowl form which could get the Bengals back to the playoffs. Previously #7

8. Philadelphia Eagles (5-2) - Dismantled the Giants and now get the Cowboys at home for first in the division. Previously #12

9. Baltimore Ravens (4-3) - Ray Rice is starting to make the Ravens' offense even more explosive. Previously #10

10. Dallas Cowboys (5-2) - Tony Romo is taking better care of the football, which is limiting the opponent's field position. Previously #13

On the Fence

11. Houston Texans (5-3) - Might just be the year for the Texans to make the first ever playoff appearance. Previously #15

12. Green Bay Packers (4-3) - Have to be able to protect Aaron Rodgers for them to be successful. Previously #11

13. New York Giants (5-3) - Have lost three straight games. Previously #9

14. San Diego Chargers (4-3) - LT got in the end zone twice last week taking some pressure off of Phillip Rivers. Previously #18

15. Arizona Cardinals (4-3) - Lucky for them, they play in the NFC West. Previously #8

16. Atlanta Falcons (4-3) - Two losses against good teams will not doom their season but they need to get back to running the ball consistently. Previously #14

17. Chicago Bears (4-3) - This team has done well considering the injuries they have endured. Previously #19

18. San Diego Chargers (4-3) - Has to start stringing some wins together if they want a return to the post season. Previously #15

19. Miami Dolphins (3-4) Have to start winning consecutive games. Previously #21

20. Carolina Panthers (3-4) - About time they figured out they had Jonathan Stewart on the roster. Previously #24

Pretenders

21. San Francisco (3-4) - Frank Gore only carried the ball 11 times last week, which has to increase. Previously #20

22. Jacksonville Jaguars (3-4) - MJD is one of the most exciting players in football, but he cannot win games by himself. Previously #17

23. New York Jets (3-4) - Got to dominate the kicking game. Previously #16

24. Buffalo Bills (3-5) - One of the bigger disappointments this season. Previously #22

25. Tennessee Titans (1-6) - The return of Vince Young will help bring dignity back to this team. Previously NR

On the Clock

Oakland Raiders (2-6), Washington Redskins (2-5), Cleveland Browns (1-7), St Louis Rams (1-7), Kansas City Chiefs (1-6), Detroit Lions (1-7), and Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-7).

Kuranda Scenic Railway, North Queensland

Alison StraceyAlison Stracey — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 18:09:14 +0000

Journey from Cairns to Kuranda by Train

The Kuranda Scenic Railway is the historical railway that runs from Cairns to Kuranda, in Tropical North Queensland.

Built more than 100 years ago as a means of transportation, it is now a must-do tourist actitvity when visiting the Cairns region.

Kuranda Scenic Railway History

The construction of the Cairns-Kuranda railway was started in 1886 as a means of transport to the Tablelands. Due to flooding, the roads were cut and people in the tableland communities were starving.

It took more than three years to complete the project and many lives were lost in the building of the railway, which includes 15 handmade tunnels, 93 curves and dozens of bridges mounted metres above breathtaking waterfalls. Modern equipment was not available and the construction of the railway consisted largely of hand tools, buckets, dynamite and bare hands.

The railway was opened in 1889 and was first operated as a tourist train in 1936.

The Kuranda Scenic Rail Experience

The train leaves daily at 8:30 am and 9:30 am from Cairns Station, located in the centre of the city. The 1 hour, 45 minute journey rises from sea level to 328m through World Heritage Tropical Rainforest, past waterfalls such as the impressive Stoney Creek Falls and the famous Barron Falls Gorge.

The train ride includes informative commentary along the way, the history of the railway and a map of Kuranda which is useful when you reach the small village. Allow 2-3 hours in Kuranda to have lunch at one of the many cafes, explore the markets or visit the butterfly sanctuary, koala gardens or birdworld.

When you have had enough, return trips back to Cairns leave daily at 2 and 3:30 pm.

Cost and Bookings

The Kuranda Scenic Railway is open every day except Christmas Day and bookings are highly recommended. The Cairns Railway Station is walking distance to the majority of Cairns hotels, which is where your day begins and ends. Return railways tickets are $61 for adults, $31 for children and $153 for a family.

To get the most out of your Tropical Rainforest Experience and time in Cairns, you may wish to take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway in one direction and the Kuranda Scenic Railway in the other direction. The Skyrail Cableway and the Train Station are located next to each other in Kuranda village, which makes it easy to know where you are to check in for your return journey.

If you wish to combine both actitvities, it costs $92.50 for adults, $46.75 for children of $231.75 for a family, which includes a one-way transfer. As the Skyrail Cableway is located 15 minutes out of Cairns, a one-way transfer is required. The Kuranda Skyrail and Scenic Rail is an experience like no other, and you will go home with some amazing memories and photos of the region.

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, Cairns

Alison StraceyAlison Stracey — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 17:23:28 +0000

Unique Tropical Rainforest Experience

The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway stretches over 7.5 kms of World Heritage Rainforest from Cairns to Kuranda.

This unique experience has won numerous awards for sustainable tourism and has been voted Australia's best tourist attraction.

Construction of the Skyrail Cableway

The Skyrail Cableway is located 15 minutes north of Cairns, Australia. More than 7 years of planning and studies were carried out before construction was started, and it remains the most environmentally sensitive cableway project in the world.

World first construction techniques were used to ensure no threatened or endangered species were harmed in the placing of the tower sites and to protect the tropical rainforest. Existing canopy gaps in the rainforest were selected for tower sites, and helicopters were used to transport construction materials such as concrete and the actual towers themselves.

When it was opened in August 1995, it was the world's largest cableway. There are a total of 114 gondolas that can carry up to 700 people per hour, each way. The Skyrail Cableway has been designed to be a safe and environmentally friendly way to view the World Heritage Rainforest in the Far North Queensland region.

The Skyrail Experience

Ascending from Cairns in 6-person gondolas, the journey to Kuranda takes 90 minutes one way, or 2.5 hours for a return trip. You should allow extra time to view the 2 station stops, Red Peak station and Barron Falls station, and to explore Kuranda village. The gondolas will stop at both of the stations on the way to Kuranda and you will be given a choice if you wish to get off or continue.

Red Peak Station is the first stop and has 175m of boardwalk for you to explore the rainforest from under the canopy. You can take a free guided boardwalk tour with the informative rangers or ask them any questions you may have about the native flora and fauna in this rainforest ecosystem.

Barron Falls Station is the next stop and provides you with amazing photo opportunities of the magnificient Barron Falls Gorge. There are three different lookouts for views of the falls and the best time to see the Gorge is in the wet season between December and March. The Barron Falls Station also has a Rainforest Interpretation Centre, which is worth checking out.

Kuranda - The Village in the Rainforest

Ascending the rainforest, you will find yourself at the rainforest village of Kuranda. You should allow 2-3 hours to make the most of exploring Kuranda. There are many cafes to have lunch, explore the markets which are open every day or visit the butterfly sanctuary, koala gardens or bird world.

Cost and Bookings

The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is open every day except Christmas Day and bookings are highly recommended. The Skyrail costs $78 for adults, $39 for children or $195 for a family, which includes return transfers from your Cairns hotel.

To get the most out of your Tropical Rainforest Experience and time in Cairns, alot of people choose to take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway one direction and the Kuranda Scenic Railway in the other direction. The Skyrail Cableway and the Train Station are located next to each other in Kuranda village, which makes it easy to know where you are to check in for your return journey.

If you wish to combine both actitvities, it costs $92.50 for adults, $46.75 for children of $231.75 for a family, which includes a one way transfer. As the Skyrail Cableway is located 15 minutes out of Cairns, a one way transfer is required. The Kuranda Skyrail and Scenic Rail is an experience like no other, and you will go home with some amazing memories and photos of the region.

Take a Short Trip to Scotland

Wilma PatersonWilma Paterson — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:59:00 +0000

Visit the East Neuk for Coast Walks & Culture

The East Neuk of Fife is a charming short break destination. It has picturesque architecture and beautiful coastal walks. The area is steeped in history.

Neuk means 'promontory' or 'corner': the East Neuk being the southeast extremity of the Kingdom of Fife (as the county is known) with a string of fishing villages punctuating the coast between Earlsferry and Crail.

East Neuk of Fife - Architecture

Red pan-tiled roofs, external staircases and crow-stepped gables are distinctive architectural features of East Neuk villages. There is Dutch influence in many of the townhouses too, as a result of the Neuk's former trade with the Continent. Cobbled wynds and alleys, handsome merchants' houses and quaint 'small houses' are a joy to photographers, as are fine harbours, handsome square-towered tollbooths and medieval churches .

St Monan's Parish Church, perched perilously close to the sea, is one of the most striking (and prettiest, internally) of the East Neuk churches. It was built by King David II in 1370, near the shrine of St Monance, an Irish missionary who was killed by Danish invaders in 875. It has later alterations dating from the 19th and 20th centuries, but there's a 14th century sedilla, piscine and aumbry.

Visit Scotland - What to Do in the East Neuk of Fife

Housed in a complex of historic buildings on a site once occupied by Cistercian monks, the superb Scottish Fisheries Museum beside the harbour in Anstruther offers a fascinating picture of the lives and times of those involved in the Scottish fishing industry. For a wet day, there's the fascinating Secret Bunker a deep nuclear shelter under a farmhouse at Troywood, which harks back to the uncertainties of the Cold War.

Wild life enthusiasts can take a bracing boat trip to the Isle of May to commune with puffins and seals, while walkers head along the Fife Coastal Path, which connects the villages. There are wonderful sea vistas all along the way, as well as historic treasures such as the fine 18th century windmill outside St Monans.

The heydays of the Neuk's fishing industry are now a distant memory: tourism has largely replaced it. But there is still a working fleet of trawlers and a busy fish market at Pittenweem - as well as crab and lobster boats to be seen in Crail and Anstruther (locally known as Ainster). Fish can be bought on the pier and there are excellent Fish & Chip shops.

Art & Music Festivals in the East Neuk of Fife

Many artists are drawn to the East Neuk by the quality of the light, the ever-changing seascapes and the vibrant colours. Pittenweem is especially noted for its artists and there are several galleries. The Pittenweem Arts Festival takes place in the first full week of August, when artists open their studios to the public and there are exhibitions around every corner, with great bargains to be found. The entire village is given over to art and there is a lively supporting programme of musical and other events. The East Neuk Festival is an outstanding classical music event featuring superb performers of international acclaim.

How to Save Money; Buy Groceries in Bulk

CherieBurbachCherieBurbach — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 23:07:18 +0000

Tips for Shopping at Sam’s or Costco

If you think your family won't benefit from purchasing grocery and paper goods in large quantity, think again. You may be able to save hundreds per year, simply by changing the way you shop. Be warned, however, as not every purchase at places like Sam's or Costco is a great deal. Here are a few tips to help you shop bulk item stores with success.

Purchase Only the Groceries You'll Use

One hazard of shopping at bulk item stores such as Sam's Club or Costco is the excitement in seeing so many items priced so reasonably. You may be tempted to throw many more goods in your cart than you normally would. Unless you're going to use the larger quantity before the item spoils or becomes ineffective, leave it on the shelf. Remember, it's only a deal if you're going to use it.

Consider a Business Membership

If you qualify for a business, rather than individual type of membership, it may be worth the cost. Oftentimes business members are privy to offers that individual memberships are not, such as eyecare benefits, printing discounts and extended shopping hours.

Compare Unit Pricing

Not everything at a bulk item store is a deal. Before you make a purchase, do some homework at your local grocery store. Take a notepad and paper and write down the unit pricing of each item you plan to purchase. Stop in at the office supply store if you're planning on buying paper goods as well.

When you have your list complete, go to the wholesale store and compare the unit prices of each item. Most bulk rate stores have unit pricing clearly marked on the sale price. If not, bring along a calendar and divide the total units by the price. You may be surprised at the results.

Invest in a Freezer Chest

Meat and poultry are often greatly reduced for quick sale on weekends. Don't shy away from buying meat simply because it comes in extra large packages. Instead, invest in a stand-alone freezer and break up the meat by serving size for your family. Put each serving in a freezer bag and pull out only when you need it. Cookies and breads can also be frozen.

Eat Before You Shop

Avoid the pitfalls of shopping when you're hungry. Eat first to prevent buying items that just look good at the moment. When your stomach is full, your brain can focus on prices rather than hunger.

Clear out Space in the Pantry or Basement

Take stock of shelf and cupboard space at home before you shop. You may need to get a few plastic containers or other storage items to neatly organize things before you need them. Get a system in place that makes it easy to restock items. If you have to struggle to find or retrieve bulk items you'll be less likely to use them.

Buying in bulk can save hundreds of dollars per year if you take full advantage of the options available. With these tips, your family can not only save money but remain organized as well.

Don't Get Lucky, Get Smart by Alan Cohen

CherieBurbachCherieBurbach — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 23:01:43 +0000

Dating Book Examines Why Relationships Fail

Wondering why you can't seem to meet the right person? Author Alan Cohen just may have the answer for you in his book, Don't Get Lucky, Get Smart: Why Your Love Life Sucks and What You Can Do About It [Marlow & Company, 2007].

Why Relationships Fail

Don't Get Lucky, Get Smart is divided into 10 chapters, each titled with a possible reason why relationships fail. The first of these reasons cuts to the very heart of why many singles can't find love: they start relationships "on the wrong foot." Cohen digs deeper into this by explaining the difference between being open to love and being desperate.

Especially important in finding love is the ability to see yourself as others do. Many singles want to be with a mate so badly they actually try to become someone they are not. This strategy not only makes a single person feel worse about his or her life after a breakup, but it also attracts the wrong type of individual.

Cohen also talks about "love at first sight" and how it usually means the single is living out a fantasy, rather than seeing the potential love interest as he or she really is.

Sympathetic Dating Advice Followed by Practical Points

To further help illustrate his points, Cohen provides anecdotal stories within each chapter. Each story is either a direct illustration or a compilation of several he's heard, and is followed by sympathetic advice. Bullet points follow at the end of each chapter to further highlight the main points of each section.

Signs of Love

While much of the advice is well placed, a few quirks in the book may need to be taken with a grain of salt. For example, the story on pages 72-73 discusses the author's experience in meeting what he thought was his soul mate. He read certain "signs" only to find out a short time later that the woman was already taken. In the book he then goes on to analyze the signs one by one. Over-analyzing in this manner is as ridiculous as looking for signs in the first place. While the author's advice is often worthwhile, his reasoning behind this piece of advice, at least, is somewhat murky.

Valuable Relationship Advice

Overall, Don't Get Lucky, Get Smart is a book many singles will find useful in the dating world today. Cohen provides this advice in reference to moving on from the pain of past relationships:

"Consider your emotions as currency. The more you invest in the past, the less you have to invest in the present and future."

This, along with the advice to "quit telling your victim story" should help singles invoke the required motivation for change to break unsuccessful patterns and finally find someone worthy of their love and trust.

Embrace the Good in Relationships

Perhaps the best advice of all is that a single person should get in the mindset of feeling that he or she deserves something good in their life. Rather than waiting for something bad to happen in a relationship, embrace the good. If the positive aspects of a relationship aren't there, it's time to move on.

Alan Cohen is the author of 22 books, including the best-selling The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore, the award-winning A Deep Breath of Life, and the classic Are You as Happy as Your Dog?

British Virgin Islands, Jost Van Dyke

Nick FaragherNick Faragher — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:18:00 +0000

Take a Vacation with Hotels, Bars and Beach

There is no time like the winter to take a vacation in the Caribbean. Leave falling trees, freezing temperatures and power outages behind and head for the British Virgin Islands, the BVI. The island of Jost Van Dyke is a small island to the north of Tortola.

The island's appeal is more about what it's lacking than what it's got. Simply put, there isn't much there. A couple scallops of white sand beach, clear aquamarine water behind a protecting reef, a dozen boats riding at anchor and palm-trees.

Bars and Accommodations at Jost Van Dyke

At the north end of White Bay, a handful of beachfront businesses and a couple of bars. The Soggy Dollar, which is attached to the unobtrusive Sandcastle Hotel, (just sold for upwards of 4 mill) and 'One Love', owned by Seddy Caldwell and his partner Raquel. Seddy's father owns Foxy's, located deep in the embrace of Great Harbour and famous for throwing the best New Year revel in the Caribbean. Then there is Ivan's Stress Free Bar at the other end of the beach.

Everything about Ivan's, especially the accommodation, is primitive, which is a good thing. From day one, no shoes necessary. Even the walk over the short but rocky pathway to the next beach, is eased by two bins holding an assortment of flip-flops, one at either end of the trail. The crew from a boat named 'Escape' started it. Leave your flip-flops behind when you head back north.

Accommodation at Ivan's is in one of a handful of cabins parked among the trees or in one of the equally small number of tents, pitched among the bushes and palms along the beach. The men's and lady's washrooms, provide all that they are supposed to provide, and nothing more. Washroom attendant? A mongoose.

The bar and kitchen are rustic and self serve. Just try to serve yourself a single, it's impossible! Photographs of former guests are plastered across the wall. Keith Richards and Kenny Chesney look healthier and happier just being on JVD.

If you think Acapulco and Sannibel Island suck, then this is your kind of place. If you want to lie amid a row of a hundred pristine deckchairs with drinks service and ten dollar tips, go somewhere else. When you leave, tell Ivan 'we're gone to come back' he'll understand. You'll be back. JVD. On this good earth, as close as it gets to Paradise.

How to get there: Air Can. from Vancouver via Toronto via Antigua. Or, American from Seattle via somewhere to Beef Island. Cost of stay @ Ivan's Stress Free Bar/ White Bay Campground. Tents $30 a night. Cabins $40-$65: Drinks: Soda $2; Virgin P-C $3.50; Painkiller $5.00. Food: eat out or bring your own, there are kitchen facilities and a bar-b-cue. Live music by local musicians, irregular in the off-season, regular in the busy season. Really, there is no off-season. A final thought, extra clothes? You don't need them. Two pair of shorts, a couple of T-shirts and a sunhat or, two bikinis, borrow one of the shirts and buy a sunhat at Wendell's. You're good to go.

Sebastian Vettel Wins Grand Prix

Steven ShawSteven Shaw — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 11:09:40 +0000

Formula 1 Season Ends in Prosaic Fashion

If the setting of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was seen as a glamorous and opulent setting in which to draw the Formula One season to a close, the fare it served up was far more pedestrian. Sebastian Vettel cruised to victory in an almost effortless performance, which saw him seal second place in the Drivers' World Championship

New Grand Prix in Amazing Setting

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix appeared for the first time on the racing calendar, after an investment of over 2 billion USD saw an immaculate race track and supporting facilities appear in little over 2 years. The drivers loved the track, everyone else loved the hotel and the setting, at the Yas Marina, replete with super yachts and celebrities, was a fitting way to finish a season filled with drama and controversy.

As the first Grand Prix ever to be held at sunset, it presented a new challenge for all the drivers, some coping far better than others. In qualifying, Lewis Hamilton obliterated his rivals with a lap time over half a second faster than second placed Vettel. Newly crowned world champion Jenson Button managed fourth, despite having nothing but pride left to fight for.

Disappointing Race

While qualifying had suggested that the Mclaren of Hamilton would canter to victory, and that everyone else was left fighting for second place, the reality was vastly different. In the 15 laps before the first round of pit-stops, Hamilton was only able to stretch his lead to just over 1 second, and by the time the stops had been completed, Vettel had leapfrogged him into first place. Soon after, a rear brake problem forced Hamilton into a retirement on safety grounds, leaving the race to turn into little more than a procession.

The top 4 drivers remained in their qualifying positions, Vettel finishing first, Mark Webber second, with Button claiming a podium finish to round off his season and team-mate Rubens Barrichello finishing fourth. While the setting was stunning, no-one really threatened to make it an exciting race.

Hamilton Particularly Disappointed

Lewis Hamilton was particularly disappointed with his race, after such a strong showing in qualifying. Having been the top point scorer in the second half of the season, his failure to make it round the circuit and become the inaugural winner of this race was clearly a frustration.

He told the BBC, "I was locking and locking and locking it was harder than ever to drive the car," before adding, "It's a shame as the car felt so good these last couple of days."

In contrast, Vettel was understandably happy with the way things panned out: "After he retired I had a little bit of a cushion and was able to pace myself… but the car was brilliant. A pleasure to sit in it. It's a shame the season ends now but it's a perfect day to finish it on a high".

Having seen the way the season ended, the stage is set for a fascinating close season, as drivers look for new teams, and new cars are developed to incorporate the rule changes for next season. Whether Brawn will be the dominant force next year, will be worth watching.

Liverpool Fall to Fulham, Lose Ground

Steven ShawSteven Shaw — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 10:44:34 +0000

Arsental, Chelsea and Man. United Capitalize

A weekend of unpredictable Premier League action saw a record equalling nine red cards, 29 goals, and drama and controversy in abundance. But it was the victory of Fulham over Liverpool which was the standout result of the weekend, and allowed other teams to stretch their points advantage over the Merseyside club.

Liverpool Humbled at Craven Cottage

Expectations were high when Liverpool travelled to London to meet Fulham. Fresh from a morale-boosting win over Manchester United the previous weekend, many felt their season was back on track. Fulham though, had other ideas. Playing with discipline and determination against their more illustrious opponents, they took a surprise lead in the 24th minute, when Bobby Zamora scored a fine breakaway goal, against the run of play. Liverpool though, were dragged back into it by star striker Fernando Torres just before half-time.

In the second half, Liverpool continued to dominate possession, but the turning point came when manager Rafa Benitez decided to take off Torres, who was still nursing an injury. This removed their most potent attacking threat, and when Eric Nevland put Fulham back in front in the 72nd minute, Liverpool crumbled. Two controversial red cards saw Liverpool reduced to nine men, and gave Fulham the time and space to score a third goal, American international Clint Dempsey sealing the 3-1 victory.

Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United Capitalised

Liverpool's defeat gave their rivals an opportunity to pull further away. Arsenal faced Tottenham Hotspur in a bitter North-London derby, and despite the pre-match bluster by Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp, Arsenal cruised to a 3-0 victory, scoring 2 goals in less than a minute just before half time. It was a devastating display of attacking football, and showed Tottenham that they still have a long way to go to match the very best teams.

Up north, Chelsea humbled Bolton Wanderers for the second time in a week, putting 4 past Bolton goalkeeper Jussi Jasskelainen. Bolton held on grimly until the end of the first half, when a penalty and red card allowed Chelsea to take the lead, and with the numerical advantage in the second half, they tore Bolton apart.

Manchester United went into their evening game already knowing how their rivals had fared, and the pressure was on to keep up with Arsenal and Chelsea, and take advanatge of Liverpool's slip. A stubborn Blackburn side, some of whom have suffered from swine flu in recent days, fought a valiant rearguard action, repeatedly repelling a United side that looked short of flair and ideas, having sold Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid in the summer. Eventually though, their extra quality told, as they put together a solid 2-0 victory.

Other English Premiership Games Just as Dramatic

A weekend of goal gluts was not confined to the big games, as Portsmouth routed Wigan Athletic 4-0, with a hat-trick from Aruna Dindane. Stoke and Wolverhampton Wanderers shared a 2-2 draw, while Sunderland fought back from being 2 goals and a man down to snatch a point from West Ham in an entertaining 2-2 draw.

Pressure was heaped on Hull manager Phil Brown as his team lost 2-0 at Burnley, injury ravaged Everton managed a 1-1 draw against Aston Villa, and Manchester City were held to a disappointing 0-0 draw by Birmingham, in the only goalless game this weekend.

Chelsea Remain Top

The results left Chelsea two points clear of Manchester United at the top, with Arsenal a further three points behind. Liverpool currently sit sixth, languishing nine points off the top, having lost more games already than they did through the whole of last season.

Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Maggie Lott Maggie Lott — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 01:08:31 +0000

Healthy High Fiber Snack Food

Sweet potatoes are a versatile yet under appreciated vegetable in most kitchens. This orange tuber, usually identified with Thanksgiving dinner, can actually be substituted for carrots or white potatoes in most recipes.

Its color and mild sweetness enhance any flavor and turn a plate of regular french fries into something special for Monday Night Football or a girlfriend's party.

History of the Sweet Potato

The sweet potato is native to Central America where it grows in a warm tropical climate. It is believed that Columbus brought it back to Europe. Other early explorers carried it east along the trade routes where it thrived in Polynesia and Asia. Sweet potatoes were also grown in the early American colonies and continue to be a staple in the South.

Nutritional Values of Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A, E and C as well as iron, calcium and potassium. A small sweet potato contains 145 calories, 4 grams of fiber and is a complex carbohydrate. When it is cooked and eaten plain, it will not raise the body's blood sugar like white potatoes.

Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potatoes
Olive oil
Seasonings (Italian, cajun and curry seasonings can be used for seasoning as well as paprika, chili powder or plain salt)

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Cover a baking sheet with foil.

Wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Slice them into pieces that are about 4 - 5 inches long and ½ to 1 inch wide.
Place the strips in a mixing bowl and drizzle olive oil over them. Next dust the strips with seasoning and salt. Mix well to coat them.
Lay the coated strips evenly on the baking sheet and bake in the oven for 30 minutes or until soft.
Remove from the oven and serve with dipping sauces such as garlic mayonnaise, salsa or hummus.

Farmville Application Tips and Tricks

William WhiteWilliam White — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 03:25:44 +0000

Get the Most out of this Facebook Game

Farmville has caught on with Facebook users in a big way by creating an appeal for young and old people alike. So whether you are just looking to decorate your farm or feel the need to beat your friends, here are a few tips to get the most out of your gaming experience.

Experience

Like most games, you earn experience in order to level up. Even for younger players who just want a pretty looking farm, experience is important. And while most things you do in Farmville give you experience, you gain the most by planting seeds. Why? Planting is the only activity that nets you ongoing experience. All other types of actions give you experience only the first time they are done. So plant and plant carefully.

Planting

To really maximize your experience and money, you need to allocate as much land for planting as possible. Then it is just a matter of planting the best crop to get the best profit.

The list below compares the value of each crop on an hourly basis. Blackberries mature in 4 hours and produce the highest profit. The second highest is Cabbage, but it only matures in 2 days. So if you spend the 2 days planting Blackberries, you are way ahead of the game.

It comes down to determining your Facebook downtime will be, then selecting the crop with the highest profit. If you are online just once a day, look at the highest profit for 24 hour crops.

Blackberries (4 hours) 10.50
Cabbage (24 hours) 10.33
Blueberries (4 hours) 10.25
Ghost Chili (6 hours) 9.33
Tomatoes (8 hours) 9.13
Green Tea (10 hours) 8.60
Grapes (24 hours) 7.71
Coffee (16 hours) 7.69
Carrots (12 hours) 7.50
Sunflowers (24 hours) 7.50
Strawberries (4 hours) 6.25
Aloe Vera (6 hours) 5.83
Raspberries (2 hours) 5.50
Pumpkin (8 hours) 4.75
Lavender (48 hours) 4.67
Rice (12 hours) 4.25
Peppers (24 hours) 3.83
Red Wheat (72 hours) 3.74
Red Tulips (24 hours) 3.50
Corn (72 hours) 3.19
Pineapples (48 hours) 3.06
Potatoes (72 hours) 2.92
Pink Roses (48 hours) 2.79
Bell Peppers (48 hours) 2.56
Watermelon (96 hours) 2.27
Soybeans (24 hours) 2.00
Cotton (72 hours) 1.83
Squash (48 hours) 1.69
Daffodils (48 hours) 1.56
Artichokes (96 hours) 1.40
Eggplant (48 hours) 1.31
Wheat (72 hours) 1.11

Trees

There are only 7 trees you can buy with Farmville coins to populate your farm. Other trees must be gifted to you. There is actually little difference between the type of tree you buy when you look at the profit-per-hour. And they all get the same experience except for the Lime tree which gets 7.

If you do plant trees, you can clump them very close together to maximize your space. This way you can have an orchard that matures at the same time.

Animals

Similar to the trees, there is little difference which animal to get since your profit-per-hour is approximately the same. The biggest difference is the amount of space they take up. Although, recently they have started selling Dairy Farms for cows. This allows you to store 20 cows where you can milk them with just 1 click.

Buildings & Decorations

Buildings and decorations provide experience when you buy them, but little else. They simply help you make your farm unique. You can get by without buying any at all. But would that be any fun?

Gifting

Do it as often as you can. Why? Because you want gifts back. There are items on the gift list that can only be gained by receiving them as a gift. To complete your collection of animals and trees, you will need to receive them from a friend.

Human Unworthiness in World Myths

Christopher MansourChristopher Mansour — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 23:36:55 +0000

The Metaphysical Fall from Grace

The idea of a metaphysical fall from grace predates Christianity. Similarly, the myths of Osiris and Isis and Demeter portray the chaos wrought by an absent moral order. The Ojibway myth "The Indian that Became a Thunderbird," laments the tragedy of human wrongdoings, but concludes with the hope of a reconciliation and atonement.

The human attempt to reunite with the divine power inevitably fails. Each world myth, echoing Genesis, features a chaotic cosmos and an expulsion from paradise. Human or divine transgression sunders universal order. In Osiris-Isis, Set murders Osiris thereby taking the throne. "People [labour] beneath his tyranny," (Dee 37) while Egypt plunges into chaos again. Isis's desperate attempt to restore Osiris reflects the unconscious desire for a lost primordial paradise. Zeus and Hade's collaboration in Persephone's abduction causes Demeter to reduce the earth to a "frozen desert." In the Ojibway myth, Stone attacks Nimkey Banasik, casting humanity into disfavour. Such actions by mortal or god, reflecting humanity's worst tendencies, imply that sinfulness alienates humanity from the divine power.

Paradise Lost and Restored

The quest to restore the primordial paradise in each myth becomes an epiphany about the human experience. Some myths address humanity's fallen nature, implying a code of conduct. White Beaver in "The Indian that Became a Thunderbird," is the paragon of an ideal worshipper. He is thankful for "the blessings he [is] given" (New 26), especially for his goddess-wife Nimkey Banasik. White Beaver is the opposite of Stone, who embodies envy, malice and brutality. Hateful of the goddess and his brother's fortunes, Stone declares "we [were] all happy together before she came" and "planned" to rid the world of the "woman he hated" (New 26). By not retaliating, White Beaver demonstrates moral superiority over his "evil" brother. In recognizing his wife's divinity and the salvation she brings, White Beaver opts to "follow" (New 27) her.

The test of devotion is less apparent in Demeter and Osiris-Isis; the former revealing an Egyptian influence. The goddesses subtly test the follower's spiritual character. As a result, Isis and the Queen of Byblos recognize one another as "kindred spirits" (Dee 38), while Demeter arouses Metaneira's friendship and "awe" (Hamilton 58). To reject the worldly life is to believe in an eventual return to paradise. At his moment of apotheosis, White Beaver is called upon to "never return to earth" but "become a thunderbird, to live up in the heavens forever" (New 28). It becomes his penultimate act of faith in providence's ability to redeem him. Like Heracles, White Beaver ascends to godhood.

But the human soul is continually torn between good and evil. Before Osiris's arrival, humans make war and indulge in cannibalism. So heinous are their sins that Ra abandons the earth. Stone fears the raging "thunder" (New 26) that represents divine wrath. Nowhere is the tragedy of human existence reflected more strongly than in the Ojibway myth. Fearing his lover's death, White Beaver admits, "this woman could have been the one to boost future generations" (New 27). The thunderbirds' intent is to help the Ojibway "[found] a great civilization" (27), but because of Stone, "it is too late."

For one brief moment the gods intend to accept humans back into the fold, and in another, it is lost. Even when Metaneira and the Queen of Byblos fear the goddesses' intentions, there is a condemnation of human frailty. The enraged Isis bellows, "weak and foolish mortal woman....by your rash action you...deprived your son...of immortality" (Dee 38). Demeter similarly withdraws her gift from Demophoon. The gift of apotheosis is reserved only for a unique human being. But as the texts demonstrate, the cycle of condemnation and absolution is not solely a Christian concept.

Hitchcock in the Vineyard

Marie-Claude ArnottMarie-Claude Arnott — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 07:02:30 +0000

The Arts, the Foundation, and the Pinot Noir

Alfred Hitchcock's legacy prevails through the arts with films that have become classics, yet it also lives on through lesser-known genres of his creative life.

Hitchcock and the Arts

Since the early '60s the Alfred J. Hitchcock Foundation has supported the USC School of Drama where the film director lectured. Recently it contributed to its reopening as the USC School of Cinematic Arts, a state-of-the-art facility whose Dean, Dr. Elizabeth Daley, was this year's honoree at the Alfred Hitchcock Tribute Gala (see below).

Worth mentioning is the Alfred Hitchcock Mystery Magazine and its 50th anniversary. Although not directly involved, Hitchcock endorsed the publication and appeared on the cover for 25 years.

After Hitchcock's death in 1980, fundraising events remained an ongoing mission of the Hitchcock Foundation, headed by Patricia Hitchcock O'Connell, his only daughter--and an actress in her father's films-- and her family.

Hitchcock and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation

The Inaugural Alfred Hitchcock Tribute Gala fundraiser, held by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Los Angeles Chapter, took place on November 7, 2009.

Hitchcock was committed to helping the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation find a cure. Recently, the Hitchcock family was recognized for its dedication. The theme of the fundraiser, A Culinary Event with California Wine Masters, would have pleased the life-loving man with the iconic silhouette.

The Alfred Hitchcock Memorial Golf Tournament is an annual fundraiser at Seascape golf course in Aptos near Santa Cruz where the suspense film The Birds was filmed.

Hitchcock at the Heart O' the Mountain Vineyard

Hitchcock's imprint is also on a vineyard called Heart O' The Mountain on what was once his beloved retreat at Scotts Valley in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

The connection is explained in the book Footsteps In The Fog, with foreword by Patricia Hitchcock O'Connell.

Her parents had emigrated from England to California in 1939 to direct the film Rebecca (Mrs. Alma Hitchcock assisted on all projects). They expressed to Joan Fontaine (who starred in the film with Laurence Olivier) their desire for a weekend retreat near San Francisco.

She guided them high above what is today the Silicon Valley where they found the historic property dating back to 1881. The area had produced internationally prized wines before collapsing under economic pressure. And so, Hitchcock planted a vineyard and sold his grapes.

There, the Hitchcocks regularly entertained many Hollywood celebrities. In fact, with his passion for and generosity with good vintages, the thrill-crafter took great pleasure in over-indulging his guests. Ultimately, after 34 years, Alfred and Alma Hitchcock sold their hideaway. And the vineyard went dormant.

Hitchcock on the Vine

Robert and Judy Brassfield, current owners since 1978, learned that Hitchcock had a vineyard after finding old vines under the brush. Inspired, they revived it in 2000. They run a family operation handcrafting a limited production of Pinot Noir.

Among the 2007 release are their exclusive Estate Blends with a distinctiveness said to "bridge Old World fineness with New World sensibilities." As for the new star born last year, a (single) Pommard-clone Pinot Noir, it promises heavenly pleasure.

Experts know best: Matt Kramer praised the "absolute uniqueness" of the Santa Cruz Mountains wines, which received their official appellation in 1981.

With its tinge of Hollywood finish, the Heart O' The Mountain Pinot Noir is an unexpected tribute to the legacy of Alfred Hitchcock.

The Innocent Mage Fantasy Series

William WhiteWilliam White — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 01:47:52 +0000

A Duology by Karen Miller

The Innocent Mage, a two-book fantasy series by first-time author Karen Miller, is worth checking out. She spins a unique world where the people hide from monsters beyond the magical wall. But all is not perfect because only the elf-like Doranen can do magic and they use it to rule the subservient humans called Olken. But maybe some Olken can do magic after all.

The books are not perfect -- far from it. In fact they're downright frustrating at times. Yet readers will be drawn to the characters because of the storytelling.

Summary of The Innocent Mage

The main character is Asher, a fisherman who sets out for the city to make it big in order to come back and rescue his father. Asher's hometown bastardization of the language and his tell-it-like-it-is attitude gets him a job in the stables of Prince Gar. Miller's mangling of the English language is engaging and doesn't distract from the story.

The story goes on with Asher reluctantly making his way into Doranen society as he works with Gar. Supporting Asher are two Olken friends, forever linked to him by a 600-year-old prophecy. They know he is the 'innocent mage', but are bound to keep him in the dark about his destiny.

Character Development Problems

Some of the character development is weak. The Olken friends and the big baddie lack details about their motivation.

When the book rushes headlong toward the climax, Miller provides details about a new character who who had been on the periphery, and then this person calls in a completely new character. If she's going to be such a big part of the climax, how about hinting at more details before then.

The ending felt rushed and drawn out at the same time. And too many important people got killed. What was Miller thinking? You don't swat down cherished characters for no reason.

Edward M. Kennedy's Autobiography

Pat JacobsPat Jacobs — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 19:01:26 +0000

True Compass Memoir Covers Family and Senate

Edward M. Kennedy's autobiography True Compass will fully engage your senses and take you on an emotional roller-coaster ride through the life and times of one of America's greatest political figures.

Kennedy Reveals Family Life

At just over 500 pages, the book consists of four parts: Family, Brotherhood, On My Own and Renewal. "Family" covers the early years of growing up in the dynamic Kennedy clan (the baby and toddler pictures are charming) and the particular influences of his parents (Joseph and Rose) and older brothers (Joe Jr., Jack and Bobby), who he also adored. His boyhood experiences in London during World War II (Joseph Kennedy was the ambassador to the Court of St. James then), his love of sailing and his early education are recalled here.

The "Brotherhood" section is the most poignant part. Spanning a 10-year period from 1958 through 1968, this covers his continuing close bond and political involvement with Jack and Bobby, from JFK's Senate reelection to both brothers' tragic and untimely deaths. (And in-between: his own first Senate election, first marriage, children and the plane crash of 1964 that required hospitalization for at least 6 months for his broken back).

"On My Own" provides a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at Kennedy's dealings with other Senate members, presidents (the chapters on Nixon, Carter and Reagan offer great insight into their characters) world leaders and volatile situations (mid-'70s Boston during school busing). The Chappaquiddick incident is also covered, and very well.

Part four, "Renewal" pays tribute to Victoria Reggie Kennedy, his second wife (it was a sweet, old-fashioned courtship). There are also moving tributes to Jacqueline Kennedy (Onassis), John F. Kennedy Jr., and other family members that passed away too soon. And you'll get a glimpse of the inner workings of the Senate, and why things work there the way they do.

Political Contributions of Senator Kennedy

True Compass abounds with revelations: Ted Kennedy represented Massachusetts in the U.S. Senate for 47 years; at the time of his death, he was the second most senior Senate member and became the third longest serving senator in U.S. history. More than 300 bills that Kennedy wrote or co-wrote became law, affecting and improving the lives of countless millions to this day.

And did you know that he wrote a children's book? In 2006, My Senator and Me: A Dog's-Eye View of Washington, D.C. was published. It was from the point of view of his dog, Splash!

Favre Clashes with Packers in Green Bay

Andy TownsendAndy Townsend — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 16:16:47 +0000

Giants-Eagles and Falcons-Saints Hook Up!

Week 7 in the NFL included the Vikings first loss of the season, a game played across the pond in London, and several blow out games.

Week 8 is going to be huge, in large part, because it marks the return of Brett Favre to Lambeau Field, however, as the foe.

Here are the picks for the week.

Minnesota Vikings at Green Bay Packers

Why the Vikings win - The first time these teams hooked up in week 4, the Vikings sacked Aaron Rodgers 8 times. Look for more pressure put on Rodgers from all over the field forcing him into quick decisions. Favre hurt the Packers throwing the ball so they will be more prepared for the pass opening the door for Adrian Peterson.

Why the Packers win - Desperation. The Packers cannot afford to drop 2 more games in the standing to the Vikings if they want to win the division. Rodgers who will be expecting the heavy rush will get rid of the ball quickly to his playmakers.

Final Result: Minnesota 27 Green Bay 24

New York Giants at Philadelphia Eagles

Why the Giants win - After losing their last 2 games, the Giants defense knows it has to step up, specifically the pass rush, who need to get to McNabb and disrupt the Eagles' offense. The Giants have been tested this season as opposed to the Eagles who have yet to really play a tough opponent.

Why the Eagles win - The Eagles allow less than 100 yards per game on the ground, which means Eli Manning is going to have to step up and make plays. However, this Eagles secondary is a bunch of a ball hawks. Defense will force turnovers that McNabb will turn into points offensively. Desean Jackson is a threat to score in multiple ways.

Final Result: New York 23 Philadelphia 21

Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints (Monday Night Football)

Why the Falcons win - Roddy White has a favorable matchup lining up on the opposite side of cornerback Tracy Porter, and quarterback Matt Ryan will expose it. Michael Turner will be relied on heavily to keep moving the chains which will limit the Saints opportunities offensively.

Why the Saints win - The Saints might have the best home field advantage in the NFL playing in the Superdome. The Falcons allow their opponents to convert 45 percent of their 3rd downs and are giving up 368 yards per game playing into the favor of the league's best offense.

Final Result: New Orleans 30 Atlanta 24

Upset Pick of the Week

St. Louis 17 Detroit 14

Other Action:

Chicago 27 Cleveland 14

Baltimore 16 Denver 14

Houston 24 Buffalo 20

New York (A) 21 Miami 17

Indianapolis 20 San Francisco 10

Dallas 31 Seattle 17

San Diego 27 Oakland 13

Tennessee 17 Jacksonville 14

Arizona 28 Carolina 17

Last Week: 9-4

Overall: 70-33

Bye Week Teams: Chiefs, Patriots, Steelers, Buccaneers, Redskins

Walled Garden on Remote Scottish Island

Wilma PatersonWilma Paterson — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 02:25:29 +0000

Visit Jura for Orwell’s Home & Exotic Plants

The Hebridean Island of Jura is the unexpected setting for a romantic walled garden bursting with exotic plants. Open to visitors all year round for a modest admission charge, the south-facing garden at Ardfin was originally planned in the 1800s as a kitchen garden for Jura House, ancestral home of the Campbells of Jura. It supplied fruit, vegetables and flowers for the estate.

Jura House Garden, hidden behind an immense Victorian wall and encircled by protective woodlands, is an oasis of serenity and fecundity, a truly 'secret' garden in Jura's wild, rugged landscape.

From the flowery car park, visitors have the choice of a lovely walk through the grounds of the estate to bring them to the garden, or for the hardier, there's the option of a longer walk following the shore with fantastic views towards Islay, Mull of Kintyre and Ireland. A guidebook and map is available at the garden's notice board where there's an Honesty Box for admission charges.

Visit Jura House Garden - Australasian Plant Collection - Wildflower Meadow & Tea Tent

Plant lovers admire Jura House Garden's more recent Australasian collection of plants from New Zealand, Australia and Tasmania, while Scottish wildflower enthusiasts delight in the native perennial species, which have been allowed to self-seed in a naturalistic manner.

In summer, the heart of the garden is the charming Tea Tent set at the edge of a wildflower meadow swaying with foxgloves and meadowsweet. It has stunning views of the sea. Payment for refreshments - which include excellent home baking - as for entrance to the garden, is by Honesty Box.

A wide selection of shrubs, perennials, seeds and bulbs, propagated and collected from stock in the garden is similarly or sale in the nursery. There are old greenhouses, an orchard and soft fruit garden, and many enticing corners and spaces to explore in the garden.

Visit Jura - Barnhill - The House Where Orwell Wrote Nineteen Eighty-Four

Jura's moorland landscape is dominated by the distinctive peaks of the Paps of Jura, which are popular with climbers. The island's resident population is a mere 200 people, supplemented by some 6 ½ thousand roaming red deer, numerous seals, dolphins and otters. There is only 1 road on the island, a single track that hugs the eastern coastline.

George Orwell lived on Jura in the 1940s at Barnhill, a remote farmhouse on the northern tip of the island, while writing his prophetic novel, Nineteen Eighty-Four. Orwell famously described Jura as 'extremely un-getatable' and you definitely need determination to get to wild Barnhill, which is a world away from Jura House Garden. There is still no road or track.

The House is available for holiday lets, for literati who want to soak up the Orwell experience, but they should not be surprised by the number of other admirers who are prepared to make the long, rough trek to take a peep through Barnhill's windows. Big Brother is watching.

Island of Jura - How To Get There

You have to take a ferry from Kennacraig on the Scottish Mainland to Port Askaig on the Isle of Islay, then onwards to Jura via the 8-car ferry to Feolin. Ardfin is 5 miles to the north and 3 miles south of Craighouse on the island's only road.

Pros of Using Silicone Baking Pans

Farozan JivrajFarozan Jivraj — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 23:36:15 +0000

Replace Your Non-stick and Aluminum Pans

Silicone baking pans are the next generation in baking molds. Silicone makes for flexible bakeware that is fast replacing non-stick and aluminum baking pans because of its durability. Silicone baking molds can withstand temperatures of up to 500 F and are easy-to-use and a snap to clean up.

How to Use Silicon Baking Pans

If it is a new mold, wash the silicon baking pan in hot, soapy water by hand. Avoid using scouring pads or harsh cleaners to clean the silicone mold. You can use the dishwasher to clean your silicone bakeware too. Just rinse it and place it in the top rack of the dishwasher.

Grease the pan using vegetable oil and a pastry brush or a non-stick cooking spray. Spread the greasing agent well so that no food sticks to the pan. Pour the batter made from your recipe into the pan. Or shape your cookie dough to place on the silicone cookie sheet.

Spread the batter evenly for uniform baking. Use a metal cookie sheet underneath silicone baking molds to hold the pan properly because silicone molds are highly flexible and pliable. This will also ensure that you can remove the hot baked product easily without spilling or burning yourself.

Bake the product according to the recipe instructions. Allow the pan to cool for 5 minutes and remove from oven. Remove the baked product from the silicone mold. Since silicone is pliable, you can even peel away the mold from the baked product.

Notes on Using Silicon Bakeware

Use silicone pans to freeze desserts or set gelatin in fun shapes.
Do not use silicone bakeware under a broiler or on a hotplate burner.

Saints, Colts, and Broncos Unbeaten

Andy TownsendAndy Townsend — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 17:46:34 +0000

Steelers, Vikings, and Patriots Giving Chase!

The "contenders" took a hit this week with the Vikings, Giants, and Falcons all losing in week 7. However, the Saints stand pat at number one despite their scare in Miami.

Here is a breakdown of the contender, pretenders, and everybody else.

Contenders

1. New Orleans Saints (6-0) - It is going to take more than a twenty one point lead to feel safe against these guys. Previously #1

2. Indianapolis Colts (6-0) - Look to go 7-0 for and unprecedented fourth time in the last five seasons. Previously #2

3. Denver Broncos (6-0) - Has the huge task of winning in Baltimore to stay undefeated this week. Previously #3

4. Pittsburgh Steelers (5-2) - Have won four straight and getting healthier. Previously #8

5. Minnesota Vikings (6-1) - Lost on the road to a good Steelers team, can gain significant ground in the division race with win in Green Bay. Previously #4

In The Hunt

6. New England Patriots (5-2) - Better enjoy the bye because their next five opponents will be tough! Previously #7

7. Cincinnati Bengals (5-2) - Cedric Benson is leading the league in rushing (720) making the Bengals a legitimate threat. Previously #9

8. Arizona Cardinals (4-2) - Gaining momentum and in a weak division. Previously #12

9. New York Giants (4-2) -Back to back losses give the Eagles and Cowboys hope in the division. Previously #5

10. Baltimore Ravens (3-3) - Have lost three straight and hopes the bye week worked out the problems. Previously #10

On The Fence

11. Green Bay Packers (4-2) -Beating Minnesota this week at home would be huge boost. Previously #11

12. Philadelphia Eagles (4-2) - Michael Vick has yet to get any real playing time. Previously #16

13. Dallas Cowboys (4-2) - Miles Austin gives Tony Romo a downfield weapon. Previously #17

14. Atlanta Falcons (4-2) - Lack of consistency in the running game has to be a concern. Previously #6

15. Houston Texans (4-3) - Slow start has this team aiming for a wild card. Previously #19

16. New York Jets (4-3) - Defense is the key to this team's success. Previously #21

17. Jacksonville Jaguars (3-3) -Won three out their last four. Previously #15

18. San Diego Chargers (3-3) - Has to start stringing some wins together if they want a return to the post season. Previously #15

19. Chicago Bears (3-3) - Injuries to key players are starting to take toll. Previously #14

20. San Francisco (3-3) - A change at quarterback midway through the season is never a good sign. Previously #13

Pretenders

21. Miami Dolphins (2-4) - Couldn't hold a double digit lead in the 4 quarter against the Saints. Previously #20

22. Buffalo Bills (3-4) - Only has four remaining road games. Previously #25

23. Seattle Seahawks (2-4) - Too inconsistent. Previously #22

24. Carolina Panthers (2-4) - Jake Delhomme will be the captain of this sinking ship. Previously #22

25. Oakland Raiders (2-5) - Has the weapons just got to find continuity. Previously #24

On The Clock

Tennessee Titans (0-6), Washington Redskins (2-5), Cleveland Browns (1-6), Detroit Lions (1-5), Kansas City Chiefs (1-6), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-7), and St. Louis Rams (0-7).

Feel Free to Leave Me Comments Below!

Recognizing the Symptoms of Diabetes

Kavi GupptaKavi Guppta — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 15:24:58 +0000

Prevent Onset of Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

Although diabetes can be hereditary, there are ways to prevent the onset of the disease. Here are some symptoms to look out for, but as always, consult your doctor and pharmacist on the proper treatment methods that can work for you.

Symptoms of Diabetes

People who live with type 1 diabetes, and are not being treated, urinate frequently and feel excessively thirsty. They can feel very tired and tend to experience severe weight loss despite normal or excessive food intake.

Type 2 diabetes symptoms usually appear more gradually. People who live with this form of diabetes don't have their blood glucose under control and often suffer from a persistent, mild thirst. They urinate frequently and can often feel mildly fatigued. They also complain of blurred vision. Many women with the disease have recurring vaginal yeast infections.

Diabetes Repercussions

Diabetes is a major cause of heart disease, which is the leading cause of death in Canada. Diabetes is also the biggest cause of blindness and kidney failure in adults. Older adults that live with diabetes are twice as likely to develop high blood pressure than people without diabetes. Visit your local pharmacy to have your blood pressure tested regularly.

Diabetes can also cause circulatory problems. People with diabetes are also 25 times more likely to undergo foot and other "lower extremity" amputations because of these circulatory problems. It is also important to note that between one third and one half of men who have diabetes will experience impotence at some point. For more information, please consult your doctor or pharmacist. There are different methods to treat diabetes, and it's important to find something that is right for you.

Recognizing Symptoms of Heart Disease

Kavi GupptaKavi Guppta — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 15:10:13 +0000

Prevent a Heart Attack before it Happens

Knowing your cardiovascular health before a heart attack occurs is very important. Most heart attack victims start to feel symptoms in the days leading up to a heart attack. Angina (chest pain) is usually the most common symptom. When your heart muscle is not getting enough oxygen, a condition called ischemia causes chest pains. As a heart attack approaches, angina is likely to get worse or more frequent. Extreme fatigue and shortness of breath are also possible symptoms.

Recognizing Heart Attack Symptoms

Sometimes it can be difficult to distinguish angina symptoms from heart attack pain. Heart attack symptoms are usually much more severe and longer lasting than angina. These symptoms can last more than 20 minutes. Heart attack symptoms are relieved only slightly or temporarily by rest or medication used to relieve angina. Consult your doctor and pharmacist about which medication can work best for you.

Many people feel a sense of warning as a heart attack approaches. Tightness, pressure, pain and a squeezing feeling in the chest can all occur. You might also experience pain in the back, jaw, shoulder or arm (the left arm especially). Your heart may speed up and beat irregularly. Chest pain is usually the first symptom but up to 20% of people who have a heart attack don't experience any chest pain.

Other symptoms that may or may not develop:

Shortness of breath
Anxiety
Sweating
Confusion
Nausea and vomiting
Temporary changes in vision
Lightheadedness

The Danger of Arrhythmias

Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) are experienced by almost everyone who suffers a heart attack. Some of these irregular heartbeats are harmless, but other types can be serious and result in death. Ventricular fibrillation (VF) is one type and can lead to death in about 5 minutes. Your left ventricle, which is the main pumping chamber of the heart, quivers uselessly instead of delivering blood to the body. This happens because of a lack of oxygen in the heart.

Not all heart attacks are severe. Some heart attacks go unnoticed or are shrugged off as heartburn or angina. Distinguishing a heart attack from heartburn isn't easy; antacids and belching can actually relieve heart attack pain, but it usually returns fairly quickly. Another temporary pain reliever is a nitroglycerin spray or pills. It's important to remember that chest discomfort caused by heart attacks is not relieved by nitroglycerin. Use your discretion and common sense: if the discomfort feels worse or different than usual, consult your doctor and visit your local pharmacy for more information.

What is Normal Blood Pressure?

Kavi GupptaKavi Guppta — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 15:03:07 +0000

Healthy Lifestyle Changes and Prevention Tips

High blood pressure is a lot like a top-secret, undercover agent. You don't see it or feel it until it's too late. This condition affects 1 in 5 Canadians, has no symptoms and according to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, 43% of Canadians who have high blood pressure don't even know they have it.

There is good news though. High blood pressure is largely preventable. The proactive measure of getting your blood pressure checked by your doctor is the first step in achieving a normal blood pressure of 120/80 mm Hg.

Understanding What 120/80 mm Hg Means

Blood pressure is a measure of the force of blood against the walls of your blood vessels called arteries. Normal blood pressure falls below 120/80 mm Hg, while blood pressure that is consistently more than 140/ 90 mm Hg is thought of as high. However, 130/80 mm Hg is considered high for individuals with diabetes.

Your blood pressure is a value given to you by your doctor that consists of 2 numbers. Here's what each one means:

Top number - This is known as the systolic reading, and it represents the pressure when your heart contracts and pushes blood out.

Bottom number - This is known as the diastolic reading, and it represents the lowest pressure when the heart relaxes between beats.

High Blood Pressure Comes with High Consequences

Prolonged high blood pressure is dangerous because of the straining and weakening effect it has on the heart, as well as the scarring it leaves on blood vessel walls. The scarring that occurs promotes a fatty plaque to build-up on the blood vessel walls, narrowing them and eventually blocking the arteries. This can lead to serious health conditions like angina, or worse, a heart attack. A stroke can also be caused by very high blood pressure forcing blood vessels to rupture in the brain.

How to Keep Your Blood Pressure in the Normal Range

When you make healthy lifestyles choices, you're much more likely to have normal blood pressure. Here are five lifestyle changes that will help keep your blood pressure off the high side:

Have your blood pressure checked at least once every 2 years, or once every year if you have had high-normal blood pressure (130/85 mm Hg to 139/89 mm Hg) in the past.
Quit smoking. Eliminating tobacco products and secondhand smoke from your daily routine will significantly reduce your risk of a heart attack or stroke.
Eating right can have a huge impact on your blood pressure. Reducing your alcohol and salt intake will help keep your blood pressure down.
Staying active and losing any excess weight will go a long way. Even losing just 10 pounds will lower your blood pressure level and reduce your risk of a heart attack or stroke.
Have some personal time to unwind and relax each day to avoid letting stress raise your blood pressure over the short-term.

Achieving a normal blood pressure is very important to overall heart health. With proper diagnosis and treatment, you can reduce your risk of a heart attack by up to 25% and your risk of a stroke by up to 40%.

Travelling with Contiki Holidays Tours

Alison StraceyAlison Stracey — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 18:14:05 +0000

Group Travel Options for 18-35 Year Olds

Contiki holidays are aimed at 18-35 year olds who want to travel in an organized group to their desired destination.

Contiki travel is perfect for individuals who don't want to travel alone. The pre-packaged tours take the stress out of planning a vacation, as transport and accommodations are included, but still allow for flexibility in the activities you want to participate in at each destination.

Contiki Tour Styles

Contiki offers camping, concept and timeout tours.

Camping tours are in 2-person tents in selected campgrounds; concept accommodation is a mix of cabins, hostels and hotels; and timeout tours are in hotels only.

Each tour type is priced differently, depending on the nature of the accommodations and each tour group has a maximum number of 50 people. With this many people, you are sure to make some great friends and meet people who want to share similar experiences on their trip.

What is Included in a Contiki Tour?

Accommodation is included for every night of your chosen tour type. If travelling solo, you will be sharing with another travelling companion of the same sex.

Camping and concept tour meals are cooked by your mobile chef or site representative, and timeout tours meals are usually provided at the hotel you are staying at or a special restaurant in the city nearby. Not all meals are included in the price of your tour to allow some flexibility in your day. All breakfasts are included and some dinners, allowing you to choose to have lunch wherever you happen to be exploring!

Transport is by air-conditioned coach with your very own Contiki driver and tour leader to answer your questions and point out important landmarks on your way.

Contiki tours can range from a few days to a few weeks in length. Tour highlights are included in the price of your tour, with optional extras available at most destinations, such as a Gondola ride in Venice or a Cabaret show in Paris. The optional extras have not been included in the tour price to give people flexibility to try other experiences if they desire and to keep costs down for those who can't afford to do everything. You should budget to include some optional extras in your trip to make the most of your vacation.

Where Does Contiki Travel?

Contiki travels to Europe, Australia, New Zealand, North America and Asia. Contiki trips are very fast paced with usually only one or two days in each destination city, and long days to see as much as possible of the different cultures.

Contiki holidays are particularly good for getting a basic taste of a country, which allows you to decide if you would go back to spend more time in a particular location in the future.

Mafia Wars Tips to Improve Your Game

William WhiteWilliam White — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:54:34 +0000

How to Maximize Your Facebook Play Time

So you've been playing the Facebook game Mafia Wars and you've become addicted. Your Internet time now revolves around your energy refills. You've even gotten up at 2 am to get a headstart on the next level.

Here are the tips you need to get the most out of the game.

Untraceable Cellphone

The first time you hit a roadblock will be when your job requires an Untraceable Cellphone. You probably had a number of them stored up and you didn't notice that it was a requirement of the job. But all of a sudden, the cellphone square goes red saying you have none left.

You can stock up on these items in the New York Enforcer section. If you look at the possible loot from the "Rob an electronics store" job, you'll see that one of the items is the cellphone you need. This concept of requirements will be used many times in higher jobs.

How Not to Get Robbed

Robbing has been discontinued in the Mafia Wars, but they still sell items that can only be used for robbing, so keep your options open. The popular question is "how not to get robbed." And the answer is "don't be there." Robbing only occurs in New York. So when you can, escape to Cuba after ending your actions. Your name won't show up on the Rob list.

Allocating Award Points

Put most of your award points into Energy and Stamina. Energy lets you do more jobs and get experience, so you want it to be as high as you can. The higher the job, the higher the experience you'll get. Stamina is important because you actually get more experience per award point here. And you need to fight because you get some cool items here that you can't get doing jobs.

Send Energy Packs Daily

Most people don't send out Energy Packs. They wait until they receive a pack to return the favor. So if you want to receive them, make sure you send them out. The button is hidden on the Home page.

Use the Bank

Yes, it takes 10% off the top. But it's the best way to protect your money. If you don't bank your money, you'll risk losing it when people attempt to fight you. So either heap points in your defences or use the bank.

Each Job Tier Has 3 Levels

You need to do each of the 3 levels of mastery to get the super cool bonuses at the end.

Collections and Vault

Vaulting a collection gets you some really cool items so do what you can to get a complete set. Make sure to use your wish list. Your friends can help. Make sure to help them for the return favor.

Give Gifts

This is the best way to get things back, whether energy, a luxury yacht or a gold poker chip. And make sure you send things to your wife. Often.

Brazil's Oil Industry Foresees Expansion

Antonio Carlos RixAntonio Carlos Rix — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 16:30:16 +0000

Santos Basin is Fuelling Metro Region Growth

The newly discovered Santos Basin has increased business activity in the Santos Metropolitan Region (Região Metropolitana da Baixada Santista), known as RMBS, which includes the cities of Bertioga, Cubatão, Guarujá, Itanhaém, Mongaguá, Peruíbe, Praia Grande, Santos and São Vicente.

The Santos Offshore show, which took place October 20-24 in Santos city, brought together local leaders, mayors and representatives of the governor, José Serra, and the state secretary of development, Geraldo Alkimin.

Growth of Brazil's Oil Industry

In 2008, Santos Offshore generated about $200 million in business. According business journalist Cynara Escobar, the growth of the oil and gas industry and the World Cup (2014) are both fuelling the Brazilian market and organizers of trade shows and business events estimate an increase of over 20% in 2010.

The oil is there and everybody wants a cut of the revenues generated. Shows like Santos Offshore, designed to showcase opportunities, will become the new norm.

Local governments are improving facilities to attract business to their cities. "We have a military airport and we will reform it so heavyweight helicopters may opperate there," said the mayor of Guaruja, Maria Antonieta de Brito. "On our side of the Santos port we will build new docks for maintenance and support for PETROBRAS (the Brazilian Oil Company) operational ships.

The efforts might really pay off. PETROBRAS, counting on new discoveries of oil and natural gas in the Santos Basin, created a Center for Studies in Sedimentology and Stratigraphy called Rodi Avila Medeiros. The lab will examine and store up to 14 thousand boxes of rocks, representing an investment of $3.6 million. Jose Luiz Marcusso, of PETROBRAS, affirmed strategic investment decisions will be technical not political.

With more than 1.6 million residents, the RMBS is the third largest metropolitan region of the Sao Paulo state in terms of population. During vacation periods the population doubles in size as these cities are all popular tourist destinations.

It's Brazil's time.

Liverpool Win Critical EPL Clash

Steven ShawSteven Shaw — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 14:16:11 +0000

Torres Inspires Victory Against Man United

For Liverpool, this was a match which could have brought disaster on a season which began with so much promise. After 4 consecutive defeats - their worst run of results since 1987 - the pressure on manager Rafa Benitez was immense.

A game against the current Premiership champions Manchester United was suddenly imbued with an even greater significance than usual. A fifth defeat in a row would have put another nail in the coffin of their season.

Liverpool Lack Depth in Their Squad

More questions had been raised about the lack of depth in the Liverpool squad, and doubts surrounded their ability to perform when their 2 star players, Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres, were missing.

In the event, Liverpool outplayed their opponents and just about deserved their victory. Roared on by a passionate Anfield crowd, who poured vitriol on former Liverpool star Michael Owen whenever he got near the ball, they fought for every inch and even in the absence of talismanic skipper Gerrard, they managed to pick up a precious 3 points. Despite suffering from an abdominal injury, Fernando Torres was asked to play from the start, and it was his world-class ability that made the difference.

Fernando Torres Goal

In the 64th minute, Torres latched onto a through-ball from the lively Yossi Benayoun, before shrugging off the challenge of Rio Ferdinand and blasting the ball high into the net, beyond the helpless Edwin Van Der Sar. Once again, Ferdinand looked short of pace and short of confidence, and far from his best.

Before and after this though, the match was becoming increasingly fractious, and United had Nemanja Vidic sent off for the third time in as many games against Liverpool. Vidic always seems to struggle against the pace of Torres, and a series of fouls brought his first booking, before a cynical tackle on Dirk Kuyt earned him his marching orders.

But if Liverpool hoped to capitalise on their numerical advantage, a series of niggly challenges from Javier Mascherano soon leveled the numbers for both teams, as he also picked up 2 yellow cards.

Alex Ferguson Questions Referee

As the game wore on, and Manchester United pressed forward in search of an equaliser, they left space at the back, and it fell to the much maligned David N'Gog to break away and seal the points with a straightforward finish.

Manchester United manager sir Alex Ferguson was not in the mood to accept defeat graciously, suggesting that Liverpool had received a number of favourable decisions from the referee. In particular, he suggested that Jamie Carragher should have been sent off for a foul on Michael Owen, as well as wondering whether he may have conceded a penalty for a tackle on Michael Carrick.

Liverpool Season Remains in the Balance

Ultimately though, this was was a match which Liverpool simply could not afford to lose, and in a clash between 2 of the biggest names in European football, it was the home side who went away happy. What effect this will have on the rest of their season, remains to be seen.

Discover Online Book Clubs

Maggie Lott Maggie Lott — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 23:51:19 +0000

Literary Fun without Leaving Your Home

Book clubs are a fun way to spend long winter evenings without leaving the comfort of your home.

Gone are the days of high brow discourses and intellectual debates over literary masterpieces. In their place are online conversations with everyday people who are interested in discussing their latest read.

No longer limited to classics, online book clubs can be found for every genre (style of literature) ranging from traditional romances and political thrillers to alternative history and steam punk.

The beauty of online book clubs is that you can chat your way through a novel regardless of how long it takes to finish it. You will find fellow book lovers from all walks of life discussing the same book and posting their opinions, alternative endings or recommendations for further reading.

Four Common Reasons for Not Joining a Book Club - And How You Can Get Around Them

1. Books are Expensive

It's true that a book can cost more than a movie rental but many novels by popular authors can be found at your local library. A library card is free and you can now reserve titles and renew your books online. The only cost for using the library is the price of gasoline to drive there and the late fee for your overdue book.

There are also many online sites that sell used books. These books can be purchased inexpensively if you don't mind a worn cover or last year's edition.

2. No Time to Read

If you read 10 pages every day during your lunch break, you will have finished 50 pages by Friday. It will only take an extra 5 minutes to post a comment on your book club site after sorting and answering your e-mails. And if you go to bed 15 minutes early and read another 10 pages, you can be halfway through one of Dr. Danny Brassell's recommended books in a week.

Dr. Brassell, an educator and speaker, created the Lazy Readers Book Club to help make reading "a life long passion." Every month he recommends 10 books that can be read quickly. Most selections are about 250 pages or less with offerings for adults, young adults and children.

3. Poetry is the Only Genre You Enjoy

There are online book clubs for all literary styles. Type your favorite genre into your computer's search engine, followed by the words "book club" and watch what comes up on your screen!

For a broader approach, sites like LitLovers and Book Club Queen offer a wide variety of categories, titles and chat rooms.

4. Reading is for Fun, Not Work

Because most people are not intellectuals, many book club sites offer study guides. These questions about the story's plot or characters are meant provide insight into what the author is saying. They can also act as a starting point for discussion when you post a comment online.

Remember, not all books are written for intellectual stimulation and there is nothing wrong with reading for escape. Genres such as adventure, romance and science fiction often help readers to cope with the grim realities of their lives by allowing them to dream about how they would like the world to be.

Take the Challenge and Read

Challenge yourself to participate in a book club this winter. Those long cold months will pass quickly as you make new online friends and read books that you normally wouldn't pick up.

And the next time your co-workers laugh at your latest read, remember to smile at them politely as you explain the influence of Bram Stoker's Dracula on the writings of Stephanie Meyer.

United Nations Climate Change Conference

Joan RussowJoan Russow — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 18:40:27 +0000

Solutions Required to Environmental Emergency

Solutions for the state of emergency that will be created by climate change will lie in the political will to address climate change within the complexity and interdependence of guaranteeing human rights, ensuring social justice, protecting and conserving the environment and ecosystems, reducing the ecological footprint, and moving away from the current over-consumptive model of development, and preventing war and conflict:

While the threat of climate change has been obvious to most scientists for five decades, the industrialized world, as the major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, has refused to address the urgency of the crisis. Largely coerced into this position by developed-world industry, industry front groups and industry-funded academics, industry-controlled states have failed not only to address the urgency of the crisis by enacting effective legislation, but also to even consider the resources that will be required to protect the poor and most vulnerable from the current and future impacts of climate change.

In addition, they have failed to consider the need to assist low-lying states and small island developing states that have already been impacted by climate change, and to compensate the global displacement of people resulting from climate change.

United Nations Climate Change Conference

At the United Nations Climate Change Conference, which takes place in Copenhagen December 7-18, 2009, rather than descending to the lowest common denominator in assessing climate targets and timeframes in all international negotiating arenas, member states of the United Nations must adopt the strongest percentage targets and timeframes advocated to best address the urgency.

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change stated that "stabilization of greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere [must be] at a level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system." This level equates to a target of below 1 degree Celsius in global temperature change, which is the point at which global systems, on land, water and air, will be so affected as to destabilize societies.

Because of the global urgency, there must be political will to strive to be below a 1-degree-Celsius rise in temperatures from pre-industrial levels (Bill Hare) and adequate timeframes should be imposed so that overall global emissions will begin to be reversed as of 2010, a phase-out to at least 30% of 1990 levels by 2015, 50% of 1990 levels by 2020, and 95% of 1990 levels by 2050, taking into account the precautionary principle, and the differentiated responsibility principle, and the fair and just transition principle.