When Andrew Schuman bought Hammond's Candies in 2007, the nearly 90-year-old candy company was operating in the red. Mr. Schuman, who says he knew nothing about the candy business, soon learned that an assembly-line worker, rather than an executive, had dreamed up the design of the company's popular ribbon snowflake candy.
View Full Image
SBINNO_SB
Monica Munoz
Hammond's Candies' Andrew Schuman, right, and Gerardo Gutierrez, whose idea reduced candy-cane breakage.
SBINNO_SB
SBINNO_SB
It was an "aha" moment, he says. "I thought, 'wow, we have a lot of smart people back here, and we're not tapping their knowledge.' "
So last year Mr. Schuman decided to offer a $50 bonus to assembly-line workers who came up with successful ideas to cut manufacturing costs.
"They're the ones making and packing the candy, so I thought they probably know how to do things better and more efficiently," says Mr. Schuman, president of the Denver, Colo., company, which has about 90 employees.
The informal idea program, which is open to all Hammond's Candies workers, has handed out more than $500 in employee bonuses since it began last year. One worker suggested a tweak in a machine gear that reduced workers needed on an assembly line to four from five.
Another employee devised a new way to protect candy canes while en route to stores, which resulted in a 4% reduction in breakage. "It's these little tiny things that someone notices that help us in the long run," says Mr. Schuman, who adds that the company was able to earn a profit this year.
[SBINNO]
Mike Hall
As more entrepreneurs turn to employees for innovation to gain even the slightest advantage in a still-sluggish economy, many are discovering the usefulness of cash incentives or other rewards to encourage workers to come forward with ideas. Particularly for small businesses with limited resources, it's a relatively cheap way to gather "lots of ideas and get people proactively thinking about what would make the product, service or company better," says David Hsu, entrepreneurship professor at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School.
Mike Hall, chief executive of Borrego Solar Systems in San Diego, introduced two quarterly employee contests this year, each with a $500 prize. Beyond the competition, the company's 55 employees are rated on innovation in their annual reviews.
One contest seeks the best business innovation, which Mr. Hall says must be formalized on paper to include the problem the idea solves, as well as its costs, risks and benefits.
The other competition rewards the best "knowledge brief," which requires employees to share valuable information that can benefit the company as a whole. For example, one worker won for creating a glossary of acronyms in the solar industry.
"It accentuates the importance of disseminating knowledge and trying not to hold it in silos," Mr. Hall says. Winners are determined by a companywide secret ballot.
Prof. Hsu says finding unique ways to reward employees for their ideas is a way to foster esprit de corps. "It's why a lot of people work for small businesses in the first place; there's a closer connection in the effort they put forward and the final product," Prof. Hsu says.
Jared Heyman, founder of Infosurv, a market-research firm in Atlanta, says his company has long turned to employees for business ideas. "In every industry, as soon as one company creates an innovation everyone else is then playing catchup," he says.
Five years ago, Mr. Heyman began awarding a $150 restaurant gift card every quarter to the employee with the best business idea. One employee won for developing a technology innovation that helped the company retain a major client that was about to jump ship.
"The [ideas] program has paid for itself a thousand times over," Mr. Heyman says. "In terms of cost savings, revenue enhancement and efficiencies, it's certainly in the six-figure range."
This year, he upped the ante with a second contest, 100 Days of Innovation, in which the company's 15 employees have to come up with a total of 100 innovative ideas by year's end in order to each receive a $100 reward. Employees write their ideas on post-it notes and stick them on the "Innovation Board," created to provide a visual reminder.
"I think a lot of folks are motivated by the fact that if we fall short nobody wins anything," Mr. Heyman says. "It reminds everybody that we work together and we'll succeed or fail together
12/28/2009
Entrepreneurs Seek Ways to Draw Out Workers' Ideas
When Andrew Schuman bought Hammond's Candies in 2007, the nearly 90-year-old candy company was operating in the red. Mr. Schuman, who says he knew nothing about the candy business, soon learned that an assembly-line worker, rather than an executive, had dreamed up the design of the company's popular ribbon snowflake candy.
View Full Image
SBINNO_SB
Monica Munoz
Hammond's Candies' Andrew Schuman, right, and Gerardo Gutierrez, whose idea reduced candy-cane breakage.
SBINNO_SB
SBINNO_SB
It was an "aha" moment, he says. "I thought, 'wow, we have a lot of smart people back here, and we're not tapping their knowledge.' "
So last year Mr. Schuman decided to offer a $50 bonus to assembly-line workers who came up with successful ideas to cut manufacturing costs.
"They're the ones making and packing the candy, so I thought they probably know how to do things better and more efficiently," says Mr. Schuman, president of the Denver, Colo., company, which has about 90 employees.
The informal idea program, which is open to all Hammond's Candies workers, has handed out more than $500 in employee bonuses since it began last year. One worker suggested a tweak in a machine gear that reduced workers needed on an assembly line to four from five.
Another employee devised a new way to protect candy canes while en route to stores, which resulted in a 4% reduction in breakage. "It's these little tiny things that someone notices that help us in the long run," says Mr. Schuman, who adds that the company was able to earn a profit this year.
[SBINNO]
Mike Hall
As more entrepreneurs turn to employees for innovation to gain even the slightest advantage in a still-sluggish economy, many are discovering the usefulness of cash incentives or other rewards to encourage workers to come forward with ideas. Particularly for small businesses with limited resources, it's a relatively cheap way to gather "lots of ideas and get people proactively thinking about what would make the product, service or company better," says David Hsu, entrepreneurship professor at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School.
Mike Hall, chief executive of Borrego Solar Systems in San Diego, introduced two quarterly employee contests this year, each with a $500 prize. Beyond the competition, the company's 55 employees are rated on innovation in their annual reviews.
One contest seeks the best business innovation, which Mr. Hall says must be formalized on paper to include the problem the idea solves, as well as its costs, risks and benefits.
The other competition rewards the best "knowledge brief," which requires employees to share valuable information that can benefit the company as a whole. For example, one worker won for creating a glossary of acronyms in the solar industry.
"It accentuates the importance of disseminating knowledge and trying not to hold it in silos," Mr. Hall says. Winners are determined by a companywide secret ballot.
Prof. Hsu says finding unique ways to reward employees for their ideas is a way to foster esprit de corps. "It's why a lot of people work for small businesses in the first place; there's a closer connection in the effort they put forward and the final product," Prof. Hsu says.
Jared Heyman, founder of Infosurv, a market-research firm in Atlanta, says his company has long turned to employees for business ideas. "In every industry, as soon as one company creates an innovation everyone else is then playing catchup," he says.
Five years ago, Mr. Heyman began awarding a $150 restaurant gift card every quarter to the employee with the best business idea. One employee won for developing a technology innovation that helped the company retain a major client that was about to jump ship.
"The [ideas] program has paid for itself a thousand times over," Mr. Heyman says. "In terms of cost savings, revenue enhancement and efficiencies, it's certainly in the six-figure range."
This year, he upped the ante with a second contest, 100 Days of Innovation, in which the company's 15 employees have to come up with a total of 100 innovative ideas by year's end in order to each receive a $100 reward. Employees write their ideas on post-it notes and stick them on the "Innovation Board," created to provide a visual reminder.
"I think a lot of folks are motivated by the fact that if we fall short nobody wins anything," Mr. Heyman says. "It reminds everybody that we work together and we'll succeed or fail together
View Full Image
SBINNO_SB
Monica Munoz
Hammond's Candies' Andrew Schuman, right, and Gerardo Gutierrez, whose idea reduced candy-cane breakage.
SBINNO_SB
SBINNO_SB
It was an "aha" moment, he says. "I thought, 'wow, we have a lot of smart people back here, and we're not tapping their knowledge.' "
So last year Mr. Schuman decided to offer a $50 bonus to assembly-line workers who came up with successful ideas to cut manufacturing costs.
"They're the ones making and packing the candy, so I thought they probably know how to do things better and more efficiently," says Mr. Schuman, president of the Denver, Colo., company, which has about 90 employees.
The informal idea program, which is open to all Hammond's Candies workers, has handed out more than $500 in employee bonuses since it began last year. One worker suggested a tweak in a machine gear that reduced workers needed on an assembly line to four from five.
Another employee devised a new way to protect candy canes while en route to stores, which resulted in a 4% reduction in breakage. "It's these little tiny things that someone notices that help us in the long run," says Mr. Schuman, who adds that the company was able to earn a profit this year.
[SBINNO]
Mike Hall
As more entrepreneurs turn to employees for innovation to gain even the slightest advantage in a still-sluggish economy, many are discovering the usefulness of cash incentives or other rewards to encourage workers to come forward with ideas. Particularly for small businesses with limited resources, it's a relatively cheap way to gather "lots of ideas and get people proactively thinking about what would make the product, service or company better," says David Hsu, entrepreneurship professor at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School.
Mike Hall, chief executive of Borrego Solar Systems in San Diego, introduced two quarterly employee contests this year, each with a $500 prize. Beyond the competition, the company's 55 employees are rated on innovation in their annual reviews.
One contest seeks the best business innovation, which Mr. Hall says must be formalized on paper to include the problem the idea solves, as well as its costs, risks and benefits.
The other competition rewards the best "knowledge brief," which requires employees to share valuable information that can benefit the company as a whole. For example, one worker won for creating a glossary of acronyms in the solar industry.
"It accentuates the importance of disseminating knowledge and trying not to hold it in silos," Mr. Hall says. Winners are determined by a companywide secret ballot.
Prof. Hsu says finding unique ways to reward employees for their ideas is a way to foster esprit de corps. "It's why a lot of people work for small businesses in the first place; there's a closer connection in the effort they put forward and the final product," Prof. Hsu says.
Jared Heyman, founder of Infosurv, a market-research firm in Atlanta, says his company has long turned to employees for business ideas. "In every industry, as soon as one company creates an innovation everyone else is then playing catchup," he says.
Five years ago, Mr. Heyman began awarding a $150 restaurant gift card every quarter to the employee with the best business idea. One employee won for developing a technology innovation that helped the company retain a major client that was about to jump ship.
"The [ideas] program has paid for itself a thousand times over," Mr. Heyman says. "In terms of cost savings, revenue enhancement and efficiencies, it's certainly in the six-figure range."
This year, he upped the ante with a second contest, 100 Days of Innovation, in which the company's 15 employees have to come up with a total of 100 innovative ideas by year's end in order to each receive a $100 reward. Employees write their ideas on post-it notes and stick them on the "Innovation Board," created to provide a visual reminder.
"I think a lot of folks are motivated by the fact that if we fall short nobody wins anything," Mr. Heyman says. "It reminds everybody that we work together and we'll succeed or fail together
Entrepreneurs Seek Ways to Draw Out Workers' Ideas
When Andrew Schuman bought Hammond's Candies in 2007, the nearly 90-year-old candy company was operating in the red. Mr. Schuman, who says he knew nothing about the candy business, soon learned that an assembly-line worker, rather than an executive, had dreamed up the design of the company's popular ribbon snowflake candy.
View Full Image
SBINNO_SB
Monica Munoz
Hammond's Candies' Andrew Schuman, right, and Gerardo Gutierrez, whose idea reduced candy-cane breakage.
SBINNO_SB
SBINNO_SB
It was an "aha" moment, he says. "I thought, 'wow, we have a lot of smart people back here, and we're not tapping their knowledge.' "
So last year Mr. Schuman decided to offer a $50 bonus to assembly-line workers who came up with successful ideas to cut manufacturing costs.
"They're the ones making and packing the candy, so I thought they probably know how to do things better and more efficiently," says Mr. Schuman, president of the Denver, Colo., company, which has about 90 employees.
The informal idea program, which is open to all Hammond's Candies workers, has handed out more than $500 in employee bonuses since it began last year. One worker suggested a tweak in a machine gear that reduced workers needed on an assembly line to four from five.
Another employee devised a new way to protect candy canes while en route to stores, which resulted in a 4% reduction in breakage. "It's these little tiny things that someone notices that help us in the long run," says Mr. Schuman, who adds that the company was able to earn a profit this year.
[SBINNO]
Mike Hall
As more entrepreneurs turn to employees for innovation to gain even the slightest advantage in a still-sluggish economy, many are discovering the usefulness of cash incentives or other rewards to encourage workers to come forward with ideas. Particularly for small businesses with limited resources, it's a relatively cheap way to gather "lots of ideas and get people proactively thinking about what would make the product, service or company better," says David Hsu, entrepreneurship professor at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School.
Mike Hall, chief executive of Borrego Solar Systems in San Diego, introduced two quarterly employee contests this year, each with a $500 prize. Beyond the competition, the company's 55 employees are rated on innovation in their annual reviews.
One contest seeks the best business innovation, which Mr. Hall says must be formalized on paper to include the problem the idea solves, as well as its costs, risks and benefits.
The other competition rewards the best "knowledge brief," which requires employees to share valuable information that can benefit the company as a whole. For example, one worker won for creating a glossary of acronyms in the solar industry.
"It accentuates the importance of disseminating knowledge and trying not to hold it in silos," Mr. Hall says. Winners are determined by a companywide secret ballot.
Prof. Hsu says finding unique ways to reward employees for their ideas is a way to foster esprit de corps. "It's why a lot of people work for small businesses in the first place; there's a closer connection in the effort they put forward and the final product," Prof. Hsu says.
Jared Heyman, founder of Infosurv, a market-research firm in Atlanta, says his company has long turned to employees for business ideas. "In every industry, as soon as one company creates an innovation everyone else is then playing catchup," he says.
Five years ago, Mr. Heyman began awarding a $150 restaurant gift card every quarter to the employee with the best business idea. One employee won for developing a technology innovation that helped the company retain a major client that was about to jump ship.
"The [ideas] program has paid for itself a thousand times over," Mr. Heyman says. "In terms of cost savings, revenue enhancement and efficiencies, it's certainly in the six-figure range."
This year, he upped the ante with a second contest, 100 Days of Innovation, in which the company's 15 employees have to come up with a total of 100 innovative ideas by year's end in order to each receive a $100 reward. Employees write their ideas on post-it notes and stick them on the "Innovation Board," created to provide a visual reminder.
"I think a lot of folks are motivated by the fact that if we fall short nobody wins anything," Mr. Heyman says. "It reminds everybody that we work together and we'll succeed or fail together
View Full Image
SBINNO_SB
Monica Munoz
Hammond's Candies' Andrew Schuman, right, and Gerardo Gutierrez, whose idea reduced candy-cane breakage.
SBINNO_SB
SBINNO_SB
It was an "aha" moment, he says. "I thought, 'wow, we have a lot of smart people back here, and we're not tapping their knowledge.' "
So last year Mr. Schuman decided to offer a $50 bonus to assembly-line workers who came up with successful ideas to cut manufacturing costs.
"They're the ones making and packing the candy, so I thought they probably know how to do things better and more efficiently," says Mr. Schuman, president of the Denver, Colo., company, which has about 90 employees.
The informal idea program, which is open to all Hammond's Candies workers, has handed out more than $500 in employee bonuses since it began last year. One worker suggested a tweak in a machine gear that reduced workers needed on an assembly line to four from five.
Another employee devised a new way to protect candy canes while en route to stores, which resulted in a 4% reduction in breakage. "It's these little tiny things that someone notices that help us in the long run," says Mr. Schuman, who adds that the company was able to earn a profit this year.
[SBINNO]
Mike Hall
As more entrepreneurs turn to employees for innovation to gain even the slightest advantage in a still-sluggish economy, many are discovering the usefulness of cash incentives or other rewards to encourage workers to come forward with ideas. Particularly for small businesses with limited resources, it's a relatively cheap way to gather "lots of ideas and get people proactively thinking about what would make the product, service or company better," says David Hsu, entrepreneurship professor at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School.
Mike Hall, chief executive of Borrego Solar Systems in San Diego, introduced two quarterly employee contests this year, each with a $500 prize. Beyond the competition, the company's 55 employees are rated on innovation in their annual reviews.
One contest seeks the best business innovation, which Mr. Hall says must be formalized on paper to include the problem the idea solves, as well as its costs, risks and benefits.
The other competition rewards the best "knowledge brief," which requires employees to share valuable information that can benefit the company as a whole. For example, one worker won for creating a glossary of acronyms in the solar industry.
"It accentuates the importance of disseminating knowledge and trying not to hold it in silos," Mr. Hall says. Winners are determined by a companywide secret ballot.
Prof. Hsu says finding unique ways to reward employees for their ideas is a way to foster esprit de corps. "It's why a lot of people work for small businesses in the first place; there's a closer connection in the effort they put forward and the final product," Prof. Hsu says.
Jared Heyman, founder of Infosurv, a market-research firm in Atlanta, says his company has long turned to employees for business ideas. "In every industry, as soon as one company creates an innovation everyone else is then playing catchup," he says.
Five years ago, Mr. Heyman began awarding a $150 restaurant gift card every quarter to the employee with the best business idea. One employee won for developing a technology innovation that helped the company retain a major client that was about to jump ship.
"The [ideas] program has paid for itself a thousand times over," Mr. Heyman says. "In terms of cost savings, revenue enhancement and efficiencies, it's certainly in the six-figure range."
This year, he upped the ante with a second contest, 100 Days of Innovation, in which the company's 15 employees have to come up with a total of 100 innovative ideas by year's end in order to each receive a $100 reward. Employees write their ideas on post-it notes and stick them on the "Innovation Board," created to provide a visual reminder.
"I think a lot of folks are motivated by the fact that if we fall short nobody wins anything," Mr. Heyman says. "It reminds everybody that we work together and we'll succeed or fail together
What Are the Requirements For Auto Insurance?
All states highly recommend that all car drivers obtain auto insurance. But what are the minimum coverages and amounts of insurance that must be purchased to satisfy the financial responsibility requirements needed to register your car and obtain license plates?
The first requirement for your car insurance is the coverages. The first coverage is called the No-Fault or Personal Injury Protection. This coverage will pay medical expenses and lost earnings for a driver or passenger injured or a pedestrian injured by your car. The purpose of No-Fault insurance is to help victims recover from the injuries sustained in auto accidents.
The second is the liability requirement which is to protect against the harm your car might do to other people and their property. In addition, your auto insurance company must provide you with a legal defense against such claims, without reducing your policy's liability limits.
The third is the uninsured motorist coverage which is to protect against the injuries you, family members and passengers might suffer in an accident with an uninsured car driver. If anyone in your car is injured by the driver of an uninsured vehicle or a hit-and-run motorist, a claim should be filed with your auto insurance company under this coverage.
Another requirement for auto insurance which is essential when you are choosing affordable car insurance is the insurance information and enforcement system. It will detect uninsured vehicles. Your insurance company will report information such as cancellations renewals, and issuance of new policies, on all persons they insure for motor vehicle insurance. As a driver you must see to it that you maintain liability coverage for your car at all times to prevent suspension of your vehicle registration.
You will soon receive letters from the Department of Motor Vehicles questioning about your status. You should know that your car will be continually tracked for its insurance coverage. If your auto insurance company has the insurance information and enforcement system, then you will be sure enough that your car is really insured.
The third requirement is that your car insurance company must provide all car insurance coverage required by law. This would make you comfortable that even using your credit can be a tool on obtaining coverages for your car.
Many credit card companies provide some type of "collision damage coverage" to their cardholders for vehicles they rent with that card. This is separate from any other coverage and usually covers losses only in excess of amounts collectible under other existing coverages. You may wish to check with your credit card company to verify exactly what protection it provides and what types of vehicles are covered.
Knowing the requirements of auto insurance can help you as a customer to decide on how you would choose the best car insurance for you. You can also be guided if you are planning to take low car insurance but having all the necessary requirements. You need not to worry about the efficacy of your car insurance if you really did your research well.
The first requirement for your car insurance is the coverages. The first coverage is called the No-Fault or Personal Injury Protection. This coverage will pay medical expenses and lost earnings for a driver or passenger injured or a pedestrian injured by your car. The purpose of No-Fault insurance is to help victims recover from the injuries sustained in auto accidents.
The second is the liability requirement which is to protect against the harm your car might do to other people and their property. In addition, your auto insurance company must provide you with a legal defense against such claims, without reducing your policy's liability limits.
The third is the uninsured motorist coverage which is to protect against the injuries you, family members and passengers might suffer in an accident with an uninsured car driver. If anyone in your car is injured by the driver of an uninsured vehicle or a hit-and-run motorist, a claim should be filed with your auto insurance company under this coverage.
Another requirement for auto insurance which is essential when you are choosing affordable car insurance is the insurance information and enforcement system. It will detect uninsured vehicles. Your insurance company will report information such as cancellations renewals, and issuance of new policies, on all persons they insure for motor vehicle insurance. As a driver you must see to it that you maintain liability coverage for your car at all times to prevent suspension of your vehicle registration.
You will soon receive letters from the Department of Motor Vehicles questioning about your status. You should know that your car will be continually tracked for its insurance coverage. If your auto insurance company has the insurance information and enforcement system, then you will be sure enough that your car is really insured.
The third requirement is that your car insurance company must provide all car insurance coverage required by law. This would make you comfortable that even using your credit can be a tool on obtaining coverages for your car.
Many credit card companies provide some type of "collision damage coverage" to their cardholders for vehicles they rent with that card. This is separate from any other coverage and usually covers losses only in excess of amounts collectible under other existing coverages. You may wish to check with your credit card company to verify exactly what protection it provides and what types of vehicles are covered.
Knowing the requirements of auto insurance can help you as a customer to decide on how you would choose the best car insurance for you. You can also be guided if you are planning to take low car insurance but having all the necessary requirements. You need not to worry about the efficacy of your car insurance if you really did your research well.
12/26/2009
How to Meet Single Women Online For Free
Looking for single women online is easy and simple. You can register for a personal ad in the comfort of your home. You can view millions of beautiful ladies near you. Online dating site is a tool to connect you with a beautiful lady. Looking for single women on the net with similar interests is the way to go. Your personal profile is very important because it connects you with a potential lady. Make sure you create a good profile to attract your other half online. You also need to post some of your own pictures. Not only you can contact the ladies, but also they will contact you if they like you. Millions of single women online waiting to meet their partner, you should take action today.
You can view single women in your area for free. When you join a free online dating site you can see who's currently online. Watching thousands of local women and contact them is a piece of cake. You just need to find the best, by putting your search criteria. Dating online is fun and surprise. When you meet your special someone the first time it's a big surprise for you two. Women seeking men online are looking for a serious partner. They don't seek men who play around, or who are not serious. What they looking for is a serious companion whom they can share their life with. Meet single women for free online save you time and money. You don't pay anything at free services.
Popular dating sites have millions of single women looking for love online; you can choose the best date with you. You can search personals with pictures and post your own free profile to create a relationship with any woman. You can search single women in your area for free. Without paying any money, you can seek a woman you dream about. It's free and it's easy to find love and romance on the Internet these days. There are millions of single women looking for relationship and marriage. Free online dating site is the solution to connect with your soul mate. There are no hidden charges. You are free to seek true love. Seeking a single woman online is easy and convenient.
Single women looking for men on the net are the ones who posted their personal profiles to look for love and relationships. They are single and available for a relationship. They can go to other places to find their true match, but they prefer the convenience of online dating service. A single woman on the net can be found on an online dating site. You can find her by searching on the Internet. There are many of them. They also posted their beautiful photos online. How to choose a date with? How can you pick the best of those available women? It is not easy to choose one of many girls. What you need to do is to compare their personal ads to see if they match with your or not. Once you find the ladies who have the same interest, you drop them a message.
You can view single women in your area for free. When you join a free online dating site you can see who's currently online. Watching thousands of local women and contact them is a piece of cake. You just need to find the best, by putting your search criteria. Dating online is fun and surprise. When you meet your special someone the first time it's a big surprise for you two. Women seeking men online are looking for a serious partner. They don't seek men who play around, or who are not serious. What they looking for is a serious companion whom they can share their life with. Meet single women for free online save you time and money. You don't pay anything at free services.
Popular dating sites have millions of single women looking for love online; you can choose the best date with you. You can search personals with pictures and post your own free profile to create a relationship with any woman. You can search single women in your area for free. Without paying any money, you can seek a woman you dream about. It's free and it's easy to find love and romance on the Internet these days. There are millions of single women looking for relationship and marriage. Free online dating site is the solution to connect with your soul mate. There are no hidden charges. You are free to seek true love. Seeking a single woman online is easy and convenient.
Single women looking for men on the net are the ones who posted their personal profiles to look for love and relationships. They are single and available for a relationship. They can go to other places to find their true match, but they prefer the convenience of online dating service. A single woman on the net can be found on an online dating site. You can find her by searching on the Internet. There are many of them. They also posted their beautiful photos online. How to choose a date with? How can you pick the best of those available women? It is not easy to choose one of many girls. What you need to do is to compare their personal ads to see if they match with your or not. Once you find the ladies who have the same interest, you drop them a message.
Fatal Accidents: How Do Fatal Accident Claims Work?
The death of a family member is probably the worst thing any one of us will have to endure. If the death was the result of a fatal accident, the shock and grief of a sudden, unexpected death will be very difficult to recover from.
When a family member dies suddenly, there is a huge amount to come to terms with and life will change forever. Many people struggle not just emotionally, but financially, too. This is the case particularly if the deceased person had been the major breadwinner of the family.
How a fatal accident can happen
Fatal accidents can happen in many different situations. Often claims are made following a fatal accident at work, on the road, in military operations or due to medical negligence.
Can I make a fatal accident claim?
If the fatal accident occurred as a result of the negligence or wrongful act of someone else, family members are entitled to make a claim against them. This can help alleviate some of the financial burdens they are facing, and may also prevent the same kind of accident happening to someone else in the future.
How fatal accident claims work
There are two main parts to a fatal accident claim – the dependents’ claim(s) and the victim’s claim - as well as a statutory award for bereavement which is paid separately.
Dependents’ claims
If one or more family members, including husband, wife, former husband or wife and cohabiters living as husband or wife for at least two years, child, grandchild, parent or guardian, grandparent, brother, sister, aunt, uncle or child of brother, sister, aunt or uncle, were financially supported by the fatal accident victim when they were alive, they can claim for the loss of that financial support.
Victim’s claim
If it can be shown that the victim endured physical or emotional pain or distress as a result of the accident before they died, compensation will be awarded for this. In addition, any financial loss the victim suffered following the accident will be compensated for. However, is the death happened instantly then neither of these will be the case and there will not be a claim for the victim.
Statutory bereavement award
As well as the dependents’ claims and the victim’s claim, there is a statutory award for bereavement. This is an additional damages payment which is a set sum to be paid when a fatal accident was caused by somebody else. The amount increased from £10,000 to £11,800 for deaths occurring after January 1, 2008.
If the fatal accident claim is successful, this sum must be paid by the negligent party, regardless of loss of earnings and the pain and suffering of the victim.
Making a fatal accident claim
If the fatal accident of a member of your family happened as a result of the negligence of someone else, you may be able to claim against them. Fatal accident claims work on a no win no fee basis, meaning that if you win, there will be no cost to you personally.
When a family member dies suddenly, there is a huge amount to come to terms with and life will change forever. Many people struggle not just emotionally, but financially, too. This is the case particularly if the deceased person had been the major breadwinner of the family.
How a fatal accident can happen
Fatal accidents can happen in many different situations. Often claims are made following a fatal accident at work, on the road, in military operations or due to medical negligence.
Can I make a fatal accident claim?
If the fatal accident occurred as a result of the negligence or wrongful act of someone else, family members are entitled to make a claim against them. This can help alleviate some of the financial burdens they are facing, and may also prevent the same kind of accident happening to someone else in the future.
How fatal accident claims work
There are two main parts to a fatal accident claim – the dependents’ claim(s) and the victim’s claim - as well as a statutory award for bereavement which is paid separately.
Dependents’ claims
If one or more family members, including husband, wife, former husband or wife and cohabiters living as husband or wife for at least two years, child, grandchild, parent or guardian, grandparent, brother, sister, aunt, uncle or child of brother, sister, aunt or uncle, were financially supported by the fatal accident victim when they were alive, they can claim for the loss of that financial support.
Victim’s claim
If it can be shown that the victim endured physical or emotional pain or distress as a result of the accident before they died, compensation will be awarded for this. In addition, any financial loss the victim suffered following the accident will be compensated for. However, is the death happened instantly then neither of these will be the case and there will not be a claim for the victim.
Statutory bereavement award
As well as the dependents’ claims and the victim’s claim, there is a statutory award for bereavement. This is an additional damages payment which is a set sum to be paid when a fatal accident was caused by somebody else. The amount increased from £10,000 to £11,800 for deaths occurring after January 1, 2008.
If the fatal accident claim is successful, this sum must be paid by the negligent party, regardless of loss of earnings and the pain and suffering of the victim.
Making a fatal accident claim
If the fatal accident of a member of your family happened as a result of the negligence of someone else, you may be able to claim against them. Fatal accident claims work on a no win no fee basis, meaning that if you win, there will be no cost to you personally.
4 Easy Tricks To Score 110 In TOEFL
Scoring at least a 110 for Testing of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is not an impossible task. You simply need to start preparing early by first coming up with an effective study plan that will help you ace the test on your first try. But what exactly is the most effective way to prepare for your TOEFL? Read on for 4 easy tricks to score well for your TOEFL test.
1) Choose the best TOEFL self-help guides for you
If you are unfamiliar with TOEFL, it’s important that you start becoming familiar with the test questions and structure. The best way to achieve this is simply by practising. Although this step might sound easy, you might initially feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of TOEFL self-help guides available these days. You can choose to get self-help books, CD-ROMs and even tapes. Don’t be easily swayed by advertising or nice covers. Take some time to think about which method will best help you absorb information. For example, if you get motion sickness easily from reading books on the bus or train, you might want to consider getting tapes so you can listen to them when you are travelling from one place to the other.
2) Consider enrolling in a preparation course
Taking up a TOEFL preparation course will definitely cost a lot more than simply getting some self-help guides. However, the help given during your prep course is generally more effective and valuable. This is because you’ll have the opportunity to personally raise any doubts or questions you have regarding a particular question. However, before immediately signing up for the cheapest prep course in town, ensure that your teacher is familiar with the TOEFL test and he or she can explain answers to difficult questions in a way that you can understand. Consider asking the school for permission to observe the class before signing up.
3) Learn some strategies to save time
You will see such similar answer choices often in TOEFL:
A) to destroy
B) destroying
C) destroyed
D) was destroyed
When you see such a question, take note that 90% of the time, the answer is either B or C. Since TOEFL generally tests on active voice (-ing form) and passive voice (-ed form), when you see both –ed form and –ing form in a set of answer choices, the answer is highly likely to be one of the two.
That is only one of the many strategies you can find out either from your prep course, or from intense practices.
4) Ask yourself if it sounds right
Everyone has the ability to think in real language without using our voice. That means that we can have a conversation in our mind as if the words have real sound. Our mind reacts to this virtual sound, not to grammar rules. In other words, we will be able to tell if a certain sentence sounds right simply by thinking it out loud.
Knowing this fact will come in very handy when you are stumped by a question. Consider taking turns substituting the choices given into the sentence and see if it sounds right. If it sounds good, more often than not, you have found the correct answer.
Although employing these four simple tricks will go far in helping you get beyond 110 for your TOEFL test, keep in mind that regular practice will always remain the key factor in acing any test.
1) Choose the best TOEFL self-help guides for you
If you are unfamiliar with TOEFL, it’s important that you start becoming familiar with the test questions and structure. The best way to achieve this is simply by practising. Although this step might sound easy, you might initially feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of TOEFL self-help guides available these days. You can choose to get self-help books, CD-ROMs and even tapes. Don’t be easily swayed by advertising or nice covers. Take some time to think about which method will best help you absorb information. For example, if you get motion sickness easily from reading books on the bus or train, you might want to consider getting tapes so you can listen to them when you are travelling from one place to the other.
2) Consider enrolling in a preparation course
Taking up a TOEFL preparation course will definitely cost a lot more than simply getting some self-help guides. However, the help given during your prep course is generally more effective and valuable. This is because you’ll have the opportunity to personally raise any doubts or questions you have regarding a particular question. However, before immediately signing up for the cheapest prep course in town, ensure that your teacher is familiar with the TOEFL test and he or she can explain answers to difficult questions in a way that you can understand. Consider asking the school for permission to observe the class before signing up.
3) Learn some strategies to save time
You will see such similar answer choices often in TOEFL:
A) to destroy
B) destroying
C) destroyed
D) was destroyed
When you see such a question, take note that 90% of the time, the answer is either B or C. Since TOEFL generally tests on active voice (-ing form) and passive voice (-ed form), when you see both –ed form and –ing form in a set of answer choices, the answer is highly likely to be one of the two.
That is only one of the many strategies you can find out either from your prep course, or from intense practices.
4) Ask yourself if it sounds right
Everyone has the ability to think in real language without using our voice. That means that we can have a conversation in our mind as if the words have real sound. Our mind reacts to this virtual sound, not to grammar rules. In other words, we will be able to tell if a certain sentence sounds right simply by thinking it out loud.
Knowing this fact will come in very handy when you are stumped by a question. Consider taking turns substituting the choices given into the sentence and see if it sounds right. If it sounds good, more often than not, you have found the correct answer.
Although employing these four simple tricks will go far in helping you get beyond 110 for your TOEFL test, keep in mind that regular practice will always remain the key factor in acing any test.
The Art of Pandora Jewelry Including Instructions, And More
Pandora jewelry has two main designers that inspire the creative makings of their charms, bracelets, necklaces, chains and beads. Let them design the perfect bead or charm for any occasion and use the unforgettable moments in your life to select and create the perfect dangle bracelet for you or someone special in your life. Browse through the categories to select beads with personal meaning from our collection to create your own bracelet design with the Pandora charms and beads you want on your chain, necklace, or bracelet. Each and every Pandora bead and charm only uses real gemstones. The only exception is zirconia. This is the only gem that is synthetically made to look like a diamond jewel. Pandora jewelry is not limited to just bracelets and charms. Pandora has a vast and broad jewelry inventory that includes earrings, brooches, dangles, charms, bracelets, necklaces, beads, rings, pendants, toe rings, chains and more. No matter what jewelry you are looking for, our Pandora collection has a little something for everyone. With so many choices of just types of Pandora charms alone; clips, beads, gold, silver, glass, and whatnot Pandora has something that will appeal to you. Pandora Jewelry offers classic and timeless beads and charms that will last for generations.
Pandora bracelets are always in high demand no matter the season. Not sure your bracelet size? No problem, you may use a tape measure in determining your wrist size. Simply wrap the cloth tape measure around your wrist and record accurately. Keep in mind that a great way of finding the correct size would be to make sure you are able to fit a finger between the tape measure and your wrist. This will help accommodate the Pandora charms or Pandora beads that will be added your bracelet so it is not too tight around your wrist. The bracelets, necklaces, and chains can come in 14k gold, sterling silver, sterling silver with 14k gold, and murano glass. In order to find the charms, beads or dangles for your Pandora bracelet, browse through the different categories, collections, and completed bracelets pages online. This will show you the top selling and most celebrated Pandora Jewelry that’s currently in vogue. Pictures of all these Pandora charms makes this quite easy to determine if these styles are what you are looking for.
Cleaning your Pandora jewelry is quite simple. All you really need is lukewarm soapy water and a toothbrush. Gently scrub the jewelry and then rinse in clean water. In order to remove the harder caked-on dirt soak for about 10 minutes before you gently scrub. For a shinier surface, consult with the sales associates at Wilkins and Olander. We can arrange for a cleaning at our store. You may also polish your jewelry with a certain polishing cloth that has a special cleaning solution. This special cleaning cloth and solution is available at Wilkins and Olander. As a warning, please do not brandish any Pandora jewelry to chemicals. The sterling silver charms manifest their detail by oxidation. And any exposure to certain chemicals may alter your piece of jewelry. Some of these chemicals include the types found in hot tubs, spas and pools. Liquid silver polish is another example.
Pandora bracelets are always in high demand no matter the season. Not sure your bracelet size? No problem, you may use a tape measure in determining your wrist size. Simply wrap the cloth tape measure around your wrist and record accurately. Keep in mind that a great way of finding the correct size would be to make sure you are able to fit a finger between the tape measure and your wrist. This will help accommodate the Pandora charms or Pandora beads that will be added your bracelet so it is not too tight around your wrist. The bracelets, necklaces, and chains can come in 14k gold, sterling silver, sterling silver with 14k gold, and murano glass. In order to find the charms, beads or dangles for your Pandora bracelet, browse through the different categories, collections, and completed bracelets pages online. This will show you the top selling and most celebrated Pandora Jewelry that’s currently in vogue. Pictures of all these Pandora charms makes this quite easy to determine if these styles are what you are looking for.
Cleaning your Pandora jewelry is quite simple. All you really need is lukewarm soapy water and a toothbrush. Gently scrub the jewelry and then rinse in clean water. In order to remove the harder caked-on dirt soak for about 10 minutes before you gently scrub. For a shinier surface, consult with the sales associates at Wilkins and Olander. We can arrange for a cleaning at our store. You may also polish your jewelry with a certain polishing cloth that has a special cleaning solution. This special cleaning cloth and solution is available at Wilkins and Olander. As a warning, please do not brandish any Pandora jewelry to chemicals. The sterling silver charms manifest their detail by oxidation. And any exposure to certain chemicals may alter your piece of jewelry. Some of these chemicals include the types found in hot tubs, spas and pools. Liquid silver polish is another example.
11/03/2009
United Airlines Exploring Viability Of Stacking Them Like Cordwood
CHICAGO—In its ongoing effort to cut transportation costs and boost profits, United Airlines announced Tuesday that it was exploring the feasibility of herding them into planes and stacking them like cordwood from floor to ceiling.
Enlarge Image United Airlines
In-flight amenities will still include the breathable pressurized air United is known for.
"Research shows that we lose millions of dollars each month by having them all sit upright in individual seats for the duration of the flight," said CEO Glenn F. Tilton, speaking to reporters at United Airlines' corporate headquarters. "However, if we were to remove these seats, we could just sort of stack them all in there, one by one, as they file into the plane."
"If a 747's maximum takeoff weight is 875,000 pounds, then we should be packing that plane with 875,000 pounds," Tilton added.
According to a press release, the company estimates that the new policy of simply arranging them in a towering mound will allow it to sell approximately 20 times more tickets per flight. In addition, executives claimed they would be able to eliminate the unnecessary cost of in-flight magazines, chairs, seat belts, blankets, bathrooms, headphones, and oxygen masks.
United officials said they conducted a test run in September during which they sent a flight from San Francisco to Denver and really jammed them all in there as hard as they could. Analysts found that 98 percent of them arrived safely at the correct destination, and of those who were lost or damaged, nearly all were eventually located.
Enlarge Image Airlines Loading
A TSA officer loads in the tall stock for a routine explosives scan.
Engineers at the airline confirmed they are continuing to experiment with stacking patterns and ways to organize them in the cabin and cargo hold, putting an emphasis on minimizing wasted space and maximizing the stability of piles so that they do not fall over.
"After much trial and error, we've found the most efficient way to stack them is to start with a base of large ones, then put down a layer of medium ones, then fill up all the holes with the smaller ones," operations manager Gary Brown said. "The really tiny ones are great for cramming up in the corners."
Brown said engineers have also explored the advantages of different loading procedures, such as driving them down the aisle like cattle, or just putting them on their sides and rolling them in. Researchers eventually concluded that the most efficient system is to wheel them out to the tarmac on luggage carts so baggage handlers can just grab them and chuck them onto conveyor belts.
Sources confirmed that early on in the trials, engineers abandoned the so-called "criss-cross" stacking method—in which each new level of them is arranged perpendicular to the previous one—as the resulting piles were not as densely packed as possible. The research also determined that bundling four or five of them together and securing them with straps or duct tape is far too time-consuming and cost-prohibitive.
"You can't just dump them in there any which way," Brown said. "The delicate ones are liable to break, and if you're not careful, they start to sway, and pretty soon the whole mess comes tumbling down."
Added Brown, "On longer flights we really want to make sure there's no room for them to move around at all."
According to senior vice president Alexandria Marren, the new loading procedure is expected to greatly reduce boarding times, and the check-in process will be streamlined as the airline takes up labeling them with special barcodes for quick electronic scanning. United also plans to introduce several new in-flight amenities, including a sprinkler system that will cool them off every 30 minutes and grated floors through which the waste products can drain.
"On top of everything else, this is going to create a lot of new employment opportunities," Marren said of the company's modernization and efficiency efforts. "For instance, we're going to need energetic go-getters who are handy with a shovel and a bucket of peanuts. And we'll also be on the lookout for talented professionals with previous experience operating high-voltage livestock prodding equipment."
Acknowledging concerns that some of them suffer from a fear of flying, the airline announced that it will soon begin forcibly tranquilizing all of them upon arrival at the check-in gate and attaching a small $45 sedation surcharge
Enlarge Image United Airlines
In-flight amenities will still include the breathable pressurized air United is known for.
"Research shows that we lose millions of dollars each month by having them all sit upright in individual seats for the duration of the flight," said CEO Glenn F. Tilton, speaking to reporters at United Airlines' corporate headquarters. "However, if we were to remove these seats, we could just sort of stack them all in there, one by one, as they file into the plane."
"If a 747's maximum takeoff weight is 875,000 pounds, then we should be packing that plane with 875,000 pounds," Tilton added.
According to a press release, the company estimates that the new policy of simply arranging them in a towering mound will allow it to sell approximately 20 times more tickets per flight. In addition, executives claimed they would be able to eliminate the unnecessary cost of in-flight magazines, chairs, seat belts, blankets, bathrooms, headphones, and oxygen masks.
United officials said they conducted a test run in September during which they sent a flight from San Francisco to Denver and really jammed them all in there as hard as they could. Analysts found that 98 percent of them arrived safely at the correct destination, and of those who were lost or damaged, nearly all were eventually located.
Enlarge Image Airlines Loading
A TSA officer loads in the tall stock for a routine explosives scan.
Engineers at the airline confirmed they are continuing to experiment with stacking patterns and ways to organize them in the cabin and cargo hold, putting an emphasis on minimizing wasted space and maximizing the stability of piles so that they do not fall over.
"After much trial and error, we've found the most efficient way to stack them is to start with a base of large ones, then put down a layer of medium ones, then fill up all the holes with the smaller ones," operations manager Gary Brown said. "The really tiny ones are great for cramming up in the corners."
Brown said engineers have also explored the advantages of different loading procedures, such as driving them down the aisle like cattle, or just putting them on their sides and rolling them in. Researchers eventually concluded that the most efficient system is to wheel them out to the tarmac on luggage carts so baggage handlers can just grab them and chuck them onto conveyor belts.
Sources confirmed that early on in the trials, engineers abandoned the so-called "criss-cross" stacking method—in which each new level of them is arranged perpendicular to the previous one—as the resulting piles were not as densely packed as possible. The research also determined that bundling four or five of them together and securing them with straps or duct tape is far too time-consuming and cost-prohibitive.
"You can't just dump them in there any which way," Brown said. "The delicate ones are liable to break, and if you're not careful, they start to sway, and pretty soon the whole mess comes tumbling down."
Added Brown, "On longer flights we really want to make sure there's no room for them to move around at all."
According to senior vice president Alexandria Marren, the new loading procedure is expected to greatly reduce boarding times, and the check-in process will be streamlined as the airline takes up labeling them with special barcodes for quick electronic scanning. United also plans to introduce several new in-flight amenities, including a sprinkler system that will cool them off every 30 minutes and grated floors through which the waste products can drain.
"On top of everything else, this is going to create a lot of new employment opportunities," Marren said of the company's modernization and efficiency efforts. "For instance, we're going to need energetic go-getters who are handy with a shovel and a bucket of peanuts. And we'll also be on the lookout for talented professionals with previous experience operating high-voltage livestock prodding equipment."
Acknowledging concerns that some of them suffer from a fear of flying, the airline announced that it will soon begin forcibly tranquilizing all of them upon arrival at the check-in gate and attaching a small $45 sedation surcharge
Mark McGwire To Teach Cardinal Hitters At What Point In Swing To Evade Congressional Questioning
T. LOUIS—After being named hitting coach by Cardinals manager Tony La Russa, Mark McGwire told reporters Monday that he is eager to get back in the batting cage and work with the team's hitters on the fundamentals of avoiding direct questioning from Congress during committee hearings on steroid abuse. "When you get down to it, it's just hands back, quick to the ball, and then right when you are about to shift your weight, have a working knowledge of the Fifth Amendment so as not to incriminate yourself in front of a panel of elected officials," said McGwire, who in the past has informally helped Cardinals Skip Schumaker and Chris Duncan with swing tips, including one in which you choke up a quarter inch to make certain you cloud the truth. "I'm not going to impose my style of squirming and smoke-screening on their batting stances, though. Every individual player needs to figure out how best to keep his left shoulder behind the ball in order to eventually make his deflected answers that much more precise." When asked about his history with performance-enhancing drugs, McGwire patiently kept his hands back and delivered a short, powerful swing to the reporter's face.
Teeth Whitening Options
There are a lot of teeth whitening procedures that are available now in the market. These would give you a lot of options and allow you to whiten your teeth even right at your own home or your trusted professional dentist. You are somehow bound to get muddled with so many options in the dental industry. In order to help you get out of this dilemma, we will take you through the best options available, so you can decide which option you can use in a smooth and fast way.
Professional Dentists
When you think of whitening your teeth, the very first option that comes into mind is to got to a professional dentist. Let us now take a feasibility if you will take this option. Your dentist will normally if you will take this option. Your dentist will normally apply carbamide peroxide solution (typically in a gel form), this will take approximately 15 minutes. After that he will clean the area to check the progress of the teeth whitening process. In most cases, patients will have to undergo a 15-20 minute session for 3 to 4 times a month, to achieve the desired level of teeth whiteness. If the stain or discoloration is stubborn, there is a tendency that you may have to schedule a return visit with your dentist, in order for him to finish the job. If you think it over, going to a professional dentist for teeth whitening treatment, is not a very good option as it will make you spend a lot of your time as well as money.
Natural Teeth Whitening Products
If you want to whiten your teeth in a natural way, there are many options available that you can use right in your own home. Some of these teeth whitening options home remedies are dangerous to your teeth, while there are also available products that are may be worth of your time and money. Some of the options that you can make use of to naturally whiten your teeth are lemon juice, vegetables, wood ash, strawberries, baking soda and carbamide peroxide. Although these options do not cost so much or you have to pay negligible amount to use the options, you cannot predict the exact amount of time that it would take for these options to naturally whiten your teeth up to your expectations.
Cleansing Strips
Another teeth whitening options that you can use is the cleansing strips. A cleansing strip uses a plastic brace that is filled with a liquid adhesive, which is then filled into the hilt and then inserted on top of the tooth. After that, the brace needs to be placed on top of the tooth for several hours, long and muddily procedures used while using cleansing strips to whiten your teeth make it an undesirable option.
Cleansing Gel
The next option to choose is the cleansing gel. Gels contain whitening agents which ate also know as oxidising agents. Hydrogen peroxide, when used as a means of cleaning your teeth of stains and bacterial pigments, helps you whiten the hue of the teeth stain. This process of teeth whitening takes a very long period of time to show its effect on your teeth. There is no guarantee that your teeth would be cleansed in the most appropriate manner.
Home-based Teeth Whitening Kits
Next on the list comes the home-based teeth whitening kits, which you can get from your dentist. Upon checking your teeth and gums, your dentist prescribes a take-home kit through which, you can keep stains and bacterial pigments off your teeth. The peroxide solution in the kit is less potent than the concentration used during an in-office method. Its application takes a very long period of time, thereby, making it a not-so-sought-after option
Professional Dentists
When you think of whitening your teeth, the very first option that comes into mind is to got to a professional dentist. Let us now take a feasibility if you will take this option. Your dentist will normally if you will take this option. Your dentist will normally apply carbamide peroxide solution (typically in a gel form), this will take approximately 15 minutes. After that he will clean the area to check the progress of the teeth whitening process. In most cases, patients will have to undergo a 15-20 minute session for 3 to 4 times a month, to achieve the desired level of teeth whiteness. If the stain or discoloration is stubborn, there is a tendency that you may have to schedule a return visit with your dentist, in order for him to finish the job. If you think it over, going to a professional dentist for teeth whitening treatment, is not a very good option as it will make you spend a lot of your time as well as money.
Natural Teeth Whitening Products
If you want to whiten your teeth in a natural way, there are many options available that you can use right in your own home. Some of these teeth whitening options home remedies are dangerous to your teeth, while there are also available products that are may be worth of your time and money. Some of the options that you can make use of to naturally whiten your teeth are lemon juice, vegetables, wood ash, strawberries, baking soda and carbamide peroxide. Although these options do not cost so much or you have to pay negligible amount to use the options, you cannot predict the exact amount of time that it would take for these options to naturally whiten your teeth up to your expectations.
Cleansing Strips
Another teeth whitening options that you can use is the cleansing strips. A cleansing strip uses a plastic brace that is filled with a liquid adhesive, which is then filled into the hilt and then inserted on top of the tooth. After that, the brace needs to be placed on top of the tooth for several hours, long and muddily procedures used while using cleansing strips to whiten your teeth make it an undesirable option.
Cleansing Gel
The next option to choose is the cleansing gel. Gels contain whitening agents which ate also know as oxidising agents. Hydrogen peroxide, when used as a means of cleaning your teeth of stains and bacterial pigments, helps you whiten the hue of the teeth stain. This process of teeth whitening takes a very long period of time to show its effect on your teeth. There is no guarantee that your teeth would be cleansed in the most appropriate manner.
Home-based Teeth Whitening Kits
Next on the list comes the home-based teeth whitening kits, which you can get from your dentist. Upon checking your teeth and gums, your dentist prescribes a take-home kit through which, you can keep stains and bacterial pigments off your teeth. The peroxide solution in the kit is less potent than the concentration used during an in-office method. Its application takes a very long period of time, thereby, making it a not-so-sought-after option
Whiten Teeth Through Home Teeth Whitening Kits
Teeth whitening solutions is considered as an essential means of cleansing your stained or discolored teeth. Home teeth whitening procedures are always preferred by people from all walks of life. There are few things you need to keep in mind if you want to get the desired result in using home teeth whitening solutions. Discussed below are some tips you must follow if you want to whiten your teeth in just a few minutes.
Avoid Using Whitening Strips
One of the reasons why some people take a lot of time while trying to whiten their teeth at home is because, they choose to remain with slow working products. Whitening strips have always been used to whiten teeth from home but it is not very reliable. Not only it is time consuming, you also almost never get your desired result. There have been numerous complaints from users of whitening strips, stating that their stained or discolored teeth remained stained, despite having worn the whitening strips for several hours. The main reason why this is happening, it’s because whitening strips are not that effective. Owing to their mass production, they can never avoid glitch as far as the quality of whitening strips are concerned. So, you need to avoid using whitening strips if you want to whiten your teeth quickly.
Never Use Whitening Gels
Whitening gels would never be the perfect choice if the time you have in whitening your teeth is just a few minutes. One of the reasons while whitening gels are considered as ineffective is because they need to be used along with a plastic brace. You need to first put the gel inside the brace and then attach the brace to your teeth. Normally braces, need to be attached for as long as a few hours to show their desired effect. The process is very time consuming and it is quite uncomfortable for first time users. Even if you’re not a first timer user of whitening gels, you would not want to waste your time while trying to whiten your teeth using a whitening gel.
Effectiveness of Cleansing Swabs
Nowadays, the most effective solution or method to whiten your teeth, are the cleansing swabs. They are easily available in the internet and can be applied with ease. Cleansing swabs have become popular because of their ability to cleanse and polish your stained or discolored teeth in just a matter of seconds. The overall application procedure is also very simple. All you have to do is dip the swabs inside a jar of whitening powder and polish your teeth very lightly. Cleansing swabs application procedure is very simple and does not involve a lot of time. The stain would be removed automatically and your teeth would sparkle like new within seconds of the application.
You would wonder what makes these cleansing swabs very special. One of the main reasons, why you should use cleansing swab as teeth whitening solution, because of its advantage of polishing your teeth within seconds. These cleansing swabs are filled with a special kind of liquid, which when dipped inside a jar of polishing powder, has the ability to absorb just the right amount of powder from the jar. Thereafter, you simply need to apply the cleansing swab and your teeth would begin to whiten.
Avoid Using Whitening Strips
One of the reasons why some people take a lot of time while trying to whiten their teeth at home is because, they choose to remain with slow working products. Whitening strips have always been used to whiten teeth from home but it is not very reliable. Not only it is time consuming, you also almost never get your desired result. There have been numerous complaints from users of whitening strips, stating that their stained or discolored teeth remained stained, despite having worn the whitening strips for several hours. The main reason why this is happening, it’s because whitening strips are not that effective. Owing to their mass production, they can never avoid glitch as far as the quality of whitening strips are concerned. So, you need to avoid using whitening strips if you want to whiten your teeth quickly.
Never Use Whitening Gels
Whitening gels would never be the perfect choice if the time you have in whitening your teeth is just a few minutes. One of the reasons while whitening gels are considered as ineffective is because they need to be used along with a plastic brace. You need to first put the gel inside the brace and then attach the brace to your teeth. Normally braces, need to be attached for as long as a few hours to show their desired effect. The process is very time consuming and it is quite uncomfortable for first time users. Even if you’re not a first timer user of whitening gels, you would not want to waste your time while trying to whiten your teeth using a whitening gel.
Effectiveness of Cleansing Swabs
Nowadays, the most effective solution or method to whiten your teeth, are the cleansing swabs. They are easily available in the internet and can be applied with ease. Cleansing swabs have become popular because of their ability to cleanse and polish your stained or discolored teeth in just a matter of seconds. The overall application procedure is also very simple. All you have to do is dip the swabs inside a jar of whitening powder and polish your teeth very lightly. Cleansing swabs application procedure is very simple and does not involve a lot of time. The stain would be removed automatically and your teeth would sparkle like new within seconds of the application.
You would wonder what makes these cleansing swabs very special. One of the main reasons, why you should use cleansing swab as teeth whitening solution, because of its advantage of polishing your teeth within seconds. These cleansing swabs are filled with a special kind of liquid, which when dipped inside a jar of polishing powder, has the ability to absorb just the right amount of powder from the jar. Thereafter, you simply need to apply the cleansing swab and your teeth would begin to whiten.
8/28/2009
Take the Trade Show Displays on Rent Until You Know What You Really Want
A trade show is an event in which the companies of a specific industry set up stalls to highlight their latest products, services or other activities. For that, the companies have to take empty spaces on rent from the organizers of the trade show for a certain sum of money and then decorate it with suitable trade show displays, which are nothing but physical paraphernalia like screens and banners.
Trade show displays consist of not only screens and displays but several other items. In fact, a whole industry of trade show displays has developed recently. A search of the internet shall yield several trade show display selling sites. Not only the internet, there are real showrooms selling the same in all major cities.
Trade shows have become so popular that U.S.A alone hosts 25,000 trade shows every year. Each company taking part in the trade show spends quite a huge amount of money and consequently the cities often promote trade show for financial benefits. As there cannot be any trade show with out trade show displays, this industry has come up a big way.
Today, the markets are virtually flooded with all possible sorts of trade show displays and an average newcomer is bound to end up with a boggled mind. He is unlikely to be able to decide what he wants. Even experienced buyers would take time to think things over. Is a pop-up display better than a pipe and drape one? Many might ponder over it.
Hence, for the confused first-timers at a trade show, it is better to opt for the trade show display rentals. There are rental companies that accept projects on a turnkey basis. They also allow renting of individual items.
Renting on turnkey basis will take the hassle of exhibiting. They do the shipping, installation and dismantling. You may however have to pay a shipping charge if the trade show venue is far off. To avoid that you can contact some trade show display rentals of that area.
Most of the rentals agencies have a wide variety of trade show displays to provide different need and different budget. They will know what sort of display will be best for your booth size as well as for your kind of products. However, you should know a little about the types of displays available in the market,
> Tabletop displays
> Table covers
> Pipe and Drapes
> Pop up displays
> Panel and frame system
> Modular system
> Portable hybrid displays
> Custom exhibits.
> Other than all these, you have small displays like literature stands etc.
> Tables and chairs generally come free with the exhibition space.
Some of the included items like table covers, tabletop displays and pop-up displays can be easily managed by the individual himself. For a small size booth, there is no need to employ professionals - one may surf the web, choose the required items and set them up oneself.
However some facts should be kept in mind while doing so:
1) However tiny is your booth and diminutive is your arrangements, you are here to draw the attention of your perspective customers.
2) When there are too many stalls around, chances of the visitors overlooking your stall is high.
3) Statisticians claim that a casual visitor will not spend more than 3 seconds on a simple stall.
4) If one does not arrange a striking booth or stall, the visitors are not likely to look at it.
5) Hence, even miniature booths must be done up attractively.
6) The trade show displays utilized in one exhibition may not be used in the next.
7) This implies that the money spent in buying trade show displays and in storing them was wasted.
This makes renting of trade show displays an attractive venture. Since there is no purchase, no money is wasted in buying and storing. One may also get useful advice from the rental company experts as they are quite experienced in the business. They are likely to give their best shot, as their future business contracts depend on the previous ones. This is the way their business grows.
If you are few trade show old, you can start buying a few essential pieces. That will save you the recurring cost. You can always rent the rest. That way you save a little and have a unique trade show booth each time you take part in a show.
Trade show displays consist of not only screens and displays but several other items. In fact, a whole industry of trade show displays has developed recently. A search of the internet shall yield several trade show display selling sites. Not only the internet, there are real showrooms selling the same in all major cities.
Trade shows have become so popular that U.S.A alone hosts 25,000 trade shows every year. Each company taking part in the trade show spends quite a huge amount of money and consequently the cities often promote trade show for financial benefits. As there cannot be any trade show with out trade show displays, this industry has come up a big way.
Today, the markets are virtually flooded with all possible sorts of trade show displays and an average newcomer is bound to end up with a boggled mind. He is unlikely to be able to decide what he wants. Even experienced buyers would take time to think things over. Is a pop-up display better than a pipe and drape one? Many might ponder over it.
Hence, for the confused first-timers at a trade show, it is better to opt for the trade show display rentals. There are rental companies that accept projects on a turnkey basis. They also allow renting of individual items.
Renting on turnkey basis will take the hassle of exhibiting. They do the shipping, installation and dismantling. You may however have to pay a shipping charge if the trade show venue is far off. To avoid that you can contact some trade show display rentals of that area.
Most of the rentals agencies have a wide variety of trade show displays to provide different need and different budget. They will know what sort of display will be best for your booth size as well as for your kind of products. However, you should know a little about the types of displays available in the market,
> Tabletop displays
> Table covers
> Pipe and Drapes
> Pop up displays
> Panel and frame system
> Modular system
> Portable hybrid displays
> Custom exhibits.
> Other than all these, you have small displays like literature stands etc.
> Tables and chairs generally come free with the exhibition space.
Some of the included items like table covers, tabletop displays and pop-up displays can be easily managed by the individual himself. For a small size booth, there is no need to employ professionals - one may surf the web, choose the required items and set them up oneself.
However some facts should be kept in mind while doing so:
1) However tiny is your booth and diminutive is your arrangements, you are here to draw the attention of your perspective customers.
2) When there are too many stalls around, chances of the visitors overlooking your stall is high.
3) Statisticians claim that a casual visitor will not spend more than 3 seconds on a simple stall.
4) If one does not arrange a striking booth or stall, the visitors are not likely to look at it.
5) Hence, even miniature booths must be done up attractively.
6) The trade show displays utilized in one exhibition may not be used in the next.
7) This implies that the money spent in buying trade show displays and in storing them was wasted.
This makes renting of trade show displays an attractive venture. Since there is no purchase, no money is wasted in buying and storing. One may also get useful advice from the rental company experts as they are quite experienced in the business. They are likely to give their best shot, as their future business contracts depend on the previous ones. This is the way their business grows.
If you are few trade show old, you can start buying a few essential pieces. That will save you the recurring cost. You can always rent the rest. That way you save a little and have a unique trade show booth each time you take part in a show.
3/15/2009
Quick Solution To Your Xbox360
If you have been having some of those "regular" problems with your Xbox360 and have been looking for for a quick fix or solution, then this is going to be of help to you.The 3 common problems experienced by this Xbox360 game ware are: firstly,the Xbox 360 red ring can be a full ring,which means all four of the green lights around the start button turn red,thereby preventing the Xbox 360 from working or you being unable to play games or DVDs. Secondly,in some cases you will discover that you have been presented with the 3 red lights problem in your Xbox 360, this could lead to damage of some of the electronic components of the system.Finally,the Xbox 360 can also experience just one red light and it also means a problem which needs fixing. By the time you finish reading this article you would be able to fix this problems yourself and know exactly why it happens.
The first problem of the Xbox 360 where all the four of the green lights turn red, is as a result of the Alternating Current(A/C) cable not working.And this can be easily fixed by removing the cable and reconnecting it properly. Because it could be that it is not properly connected earlier.Another solution to this,is proper cleaning of the ends of the cable to allow for proper contact.Sometimes, accumulation of tiny particles or dust could also block proper contact between the electronic components.
Secondly,the problem of 3 red lights manifesting on your Xbox 360 is basically as a result of inproper ventilation of the system. The electronic components when at work gives out heat and the system is designed such a way it does not retain heat inorder not to damage the components.Sometimes, out of ignorance you cover up the cooling vents,this makes the system abnormally hot.The simple solution to this is to allow the system to cool off before putting into use again.Make sure the cooling vents are always expose to where air could penetrate inside of it, and it is blocked by anything.
Finally,the issue of one red light turning on,is another of this "regular" problem with quick solution.It's basically results from hardware failure and somewhat as a result of overheating too. Hence,proper ventilation is needed.You can allow your Xbox 360 to rest for a while before playing another game. Occasionally,it could be as a result of electronic component failure and this can be fixed by a technician.But this is in rare situations only.
Now that you know how to carry out a quick solution to this "regular" Xbox 360 problem,the next time your Xbox 360 develop this problem keep this solutions in mind.Specifically, remember not to allow your Xbox 360 to overheat or accumulate dust.So get out of your worries whenever your Xbox 360 is faced with this problems and fix them.
The first problem of the Xbox 360 where all the four of the green lights turn red, is as a result of the Alternating Current(A/C) cable not working.And this can be easily fixed by removing the cable and reconnecting it properly. Because it could be that it is not properly connected earlier.Another solution to this,is proper cleaning of the ends of the cable to allow for proper contact.Sometimes, accumulation of tiny particles or dust could also block proper contact between the electronic components.
Secondly,the problem of 3 red lights manifesting on your Xbox 360 is basically as a result of inproper ventilation of the system. The electronic components when at work gives out heat and the system is designed such a way it does not retain heat inorder not to damage the components.Sometimes, out of ignorance you cover up the cooling vents,this makes the system abnormally hot.The simple solution to this is to allow the system to cool off before putting into use again.Make sure the cooling vents are always expose to where air could penetrate inside of it, and it is blocked by anything.
Finally,the issue of one red light turning on,is another of this "regular" problem with quick solution.It's basically results from hardware failure and somewhat as a result of overheating too. Hence,proper ventilation is needed.You can allow your Xbox 360 to rest for a while before playing another game. Occasionally,it could be as a result of electronic component failure and this can be fixed by a technician.But this is in rare situations only.
Now that you know how to carry out a quick solution to this "regular" Xbox 360 problem,the next time your Xbox 360 develop this problem keep this solutions in mind.Specifically, remember not to allow your Xbox 360 to overheat or accumulate dust.So get out of your worries whenever your Xbox 360 is faced with this problems and fix them.
Is Your Website A Sitting Duck Or A Cash Cow?
The quintessential question that every online marketer has- How to maximise efficiency and allocate dollars to a marketing campaign in a way that compels customer attention and propel their actions that converts clicks to cash? How to make your website a cash cow for your business? An Internet marketing expert at Greymindz would tell you that for any marketing strategy to succeed it has to have a strong co relation between consumer psychologies, effective communication and simply adapting with the times.
In order to succeed one of the key attributes is to add value to business. Consumers today are looking for businesses which provide value for products and services besides championing customer service and a smooth purchasing experience. Just spare a moment and think- is my company doing that already? This should give you an overview as to where to begin your internet marketing efforts.
Over the years businesses have developed tools and techniques to provide “feel at home experience”, enhancing their comfort level to do business with their company by providing services in terms of “free quotes” or “free consultation”. Another tool used is “email subscription newsletters” to a great advantage by building a strong subscriber base by providing incentives to subscribers inspiring word-of-mouth publicity and repeat online buyers. An Internet marketing campaign should not only focus on sales but also developing a strong customer base with high repeat value by building brand loyalty and enhancing customer satisfaction.
Web analytics is an important tool for making an effective tailor made internet marketing campaign using consumer psychology. It throws important facts which helps you collect critical data and understanding consumer behaviour as it gives you clues as to How old are the members in that household? When are their birthdays? What did this particular shopper buy his or her spouse for the last birthday? Web analytics makes you hear consumer voices to improve your sales strategy. Are you listening? This is where an internet marketing company can be your guide and marketing partner to bring in more sales.
If you can do anything that makes life easier for your consumer, they'll reward you with repeat buys. One of the effective Internet marketing techniques is to add interactive tools to your business to help build consumer confidence. Adding “live customer help” feature is an important tool for your website which gives you insights as to what the consumer is looking for on your website and also help the customer in making quick decision and reduce consumer complaints. Would you like to miss an opportunity to make a sale when somebody is out there to buy online on your website? Adding interactive tools not only helps you increase sales by facilitating customers but also promoting cross products sales. Online marketing is all about helping customers to help you make more sales. Are you listening? Are you taking the right steps? What are you waiting for? It’s time to call the internet marketing experts.
In order to succeed one of the key attributes is to add value to business. Consumers today are looking for businesses which provide value for products and services besides championing customer service and a smooth purchasing experience. Just spare a moment and think- is my company doing that already? This should give you an overview as to where to begin your internet marketing efforts.
Over the years businesses have developed tools and techniques to provide “feel at home experience”, enhancing their comfort level to do business with their company by providing services in terms of “free quotes” or “free consultation”. Another tool used is “email subscription newsletters” to a great advantage by building a strong subscriber base by providing incentives to subscribers inspiring word-of-mouth publicity and repeat online buyers. An Internet marketing campaign should not only focus on sales but also developing a strong customer base with high repeat value by building brand loyalty and enhancing customer satisfaction.
Web analytics is an important tool for making an effective tailor made internet marketing campaign using consumer psychology. It throws important facts which helps you collect critical data and understanding consumer behaviour as it gives you clues as to How old are the members in that household? When are their birthdays? What did this particular shopper buy his or her spouse for the last birthday? Web analytics makes you hear consumer voices to improve your sales strategy. Are you listening? This is where an internet marketing company can be your guide and marketing partner to bring in more sales.
If you can do anything that makes life easier for your consumer, they'll reward you with repeat buys. One of the effective Internet marketing techniques is to add interactive tools to your business to help build consumer confidence. Adding “live customer help” feature is an important tool for your website which gives you insights as to what the consumer is looking for on your website and also help the customer in making quick decision and reduce consumer complaints. Would you like to miss an opportunity to make a sale when somebody is out there to buy online on your website? Adding interactive tools not only helps you increase sales by facilitating customers but also promoting cross products sales. Online marketing is all about helping customers to help you make more sales. Are you listening? Are you taking the right steps? What are you waiting for? It’s time to call the internet marketing experts.
3/13/2009
Women Should Not Let Their Career Stress Them Out
What do you do when the career you have chosen stresses you out? When this happens, it is easy to get depressed since your career is very important. As a result, here are some suggestions on how to deal with your career anxieties. Determine why your career makes you stressed out. Maybe its some aspect of your career that makes you anxious or maybe you need a new job. Do some soul searching and determine the main causes of your career anxieties. Once you know why you are stressed, then develop a plan of action. Maybe it is not your career that is stressful, but instead your job that is the problem. If it is your job that makes you anxious then try to find ways to improve the situation. If this does not work then change jobs. Sometimes it may be the career itself that is the problem. Do not be afraid to change careers if you have to. People nowadays change careers for various reasons. Many adults go back to school to get the necessary training for their new career. The important thing is to determine which career best suits you. Remember you have options. There are all kinds of jobs and careers out there so do not feel that your back is in the corner. If you do
not know what to do, then take a career skills assessment test which will determine what kind of job or career best suits your particular interests and skill sets. There are many career coaches that can give you additional advice. Your local college has career counselors that can give you much assistance and provide you with information on a variety of careers. Take advantage of the help that is available around you. If possible, talk to a professional who can help you manage your depression and anxieties. They will be able to provide you with additional advice and insights on how to deal with your current problem. By talking to a professional, a person will be helping themselves in the long run because they will become better able to deal with their problems in the future. Remember that it never hurts to ask for help. It is important to find a job or career that makes you feel good about yourself. Do not just take a job because the money is good or because it will impress your friends. You are the one who has to go to work everyday, so find something that you like to do and also will pay the bills. It will take some work, but eventually you will find something.
not know what to do, then take a career skills assessment test which will determine what kind of job or career best suits your particular interests and skill sets. There are many career coaches that can give you additional advice. Your local college has career counselors that can give you much assistance and provide you with information on a variety of careers. Take advantage of the help that is available around you. If possible, talk to a professional who can help you manage your depression and anxieties. They will be able to provide you with additional advice and insights on how to deal with your current problem. By talking to a professional, a person will be helping themselves in the long run because they will become better able to deal with their problems in the future. Remember that it never hurts to ask for help. It is important to find a job or career that makes you feel good about yourself. Do not just take a job because the money is good or because it will impress your friends. You are the one who has to go to work everyday, so find something that you like to do and also will pay the bills. It will take some work, but eventually you will find something.
How To Deal With Depression And Your Fearful Thoughts
There are times that we encounter fearful thoughts that can be difficult to manage. For some people, the more they try to get rid of the thoughts, the stronger the thoughts become and the more difficult they become to manage. As a result, here is a brief list of techniques that a person can use to help manage their fearful and obsessive thoughts and anxieties. The first thing a person must do is not to dwell or focus on the fear provoking thought when it comes. The more a person tries to reason out the thought or focus on the fear behind the thought, the stronger the thought becomes. The next time you encounter an obsessive thought, get into the practice of not dwelling on it. From my interviews with various psychologists, I was told that a person should visualize a red stop sign in their mind when they encounter a fear provoking thought. When the negative thought comes, a person should think of a red stop sign which serves as a reminder to stop focusing on that thought and to think of something else. A person can then try to think of something positive to replace the negative thought. A person should
keep a small notebook of positive statements that makes them feel good. Whenever they come across a positive and uplifting verse that makes them feel good, write it down in a small notebook. A person can then carry this notebook around in their pocket and whenever they feel anxious, they can read their notebook. Our fearful thoughts can sometimes produce a lot of anxiety. When this happens, a person should take a deep breathe and try to find something to do for a few minutes to get their mind off of the problem. A person could take a walk, listen to some music, read the newspaper or do an activity that will give them a fresh perspective on things. Take advantage of the help that is available around you. If possible, talk to a professional who can help you manage your depression and anxieties. They will be able to provide you with additional advice and insights on how to deal with your current problem. By talking to a professional, a person will be helping themselves in the long run because they will become better able to deal with their problems in the future. Remember that it never hurts to ask for help.
keep a small notebook of positive statements that makes them feel good. Whenever they come across a positive and uplifting verse that makes them feel good, write it down in a small notebook. A person can then carry this notebook around in their pocket and whenever they feel anxious, they can read their notebook. Our fearful thoughts can sometimes produce a lot of anxiety. When this happens, a person should take a deep breathe and try to find something to do for a few minutes to get their mind off of the problem. A person could take a walk, listen to some music, read the newspaper or do an activity that will give them a fresh perspective on things. Take advantage of the help that is available around you. If possible, talk to a professional who can help you manage your depression and anxieties. They will be able to provide you with additional advice and insights on how to deal with your current problem. By talking to a professional, a person will be helping themselves in the long run because they will become better able to deal with their problems in the future. Remember that it never hurts to ask for help.
2/11/2009
Auto Back Support: Settle Only For Comfort
Most of our lives are spent in travel and there seems to be no alternative to it. Compared to the air travel, traveling by the roads is so back breaking, literally. Which is why, an individual wouldn’t like to settle for anything but ultimate in comfort. It seems that while certain vehicles are designed to provide some amount of comfort others are yet to follow the suit. The complaint comes mostly from the working professionals and car drivers and those include back ache, leaning and stiff back problems. The nagging pain just refuses to go and in the later years, one might develop flaws in personality with deformed postures. Basically, it is the shape of the seat, which determines a comfortable sitting posture and a pain free spine. Auto back support has been designed keeping in mind the peculiarities and shape of the backbone. As the concept is fast catching the fancy of designers, they are constantly on the move to innovate it.
Auto back support has got a lot of multi-purpose uses. The basic design consists of adjustable flaps, which are used to attach it with office seat, car seat and the study chair as well. The designers are particular about the research, the results of which are applied to modernize this support system. As the spinal cord is vital part of the back, any injury to it proves to be hazardous. Its vulnerability has to be kept in mind while designing the auto back support chair. As the wrong posture adopted during the work unnecessarily adds to the strain on the back muscles, pain is the outcome. A number of support models are available in the market, specially designed for those long working hours on the computer.
Back pain is a regular feature with the populace today. Around 60 percent of people suffer from a number of back ailments for which only a temporary relief is provided by the medicines. The painkillers in fact, pave way to the development of other complications in later years. Notable amongst them are the kidney problems and the weakening of the digestive system. Due to this, the auto back support is the best alternative to the problem free back. Today’s hectic life demands the combination of work with comfort and that is what back support chair does. A number of models like Putnam seat wedges (with or without support), Lumbar mate back support, Right spot, the body impressions, triple-C coccyx comfort cushion etc. give back support system a new meaning. These chairs act as stress busters and have appeared as alternatives to the irregular shape of the traditional chairs in cars, offices or at the home.
Prevention is the best form of medicine and is better than cure. But lifestyles have altered to such a state where it becomes almost impossible to avoid the rigors of travel. One can however choose a better alternative in the form of auto back support. It can be fitted to one’s vehicle, computer chair or any other regular chair which might be the retiring zone for anybody. This type of support system makes your life much easier and you forget the back pain forever. You can improve your posture with the support system developed by some of the reputed firms in this field.
Auto back support has got a lot of multi-purpose uses. The basic design consists of adjustable flaps, which are used to attach it with office seat, car seat and the study chair as well. The designers are particular about the research, the results of which are applied to modernize this support system. As the spinal cord is vital part of the back, any injury to it proves to be hazardous. Its vulnerability has to be kept in mind while designing the auto back support chair. As the wrong posture adopted during the work unnecessarily adds to the strain on the back muscles, pain is the outcome. A number of support models are available in the market, specially designed for those long working hours on the computer.
Back pain is a regular feature with the populace today. Around 60 percent of people suffer from a number of back ailments for which only a temporary relief is provided by the medicines. The painkillers in fact, pave way to the development of other complications in later years. Notable amongst them are the kidney problems and the weakening of the digestive system. Due to this, the auto back support is the best alternative to the problem free back. Today’s hectic life demands the combination of work with comfort and that is what back support chair does. A number of models like Putnam seat wedges (with or without support), Lumbar mate back support, Right spot, the body impressions, triple-C coccyx comfort cushion etc. give back support system a new meaning. These chairs act as stress busters and have appeared as alternatives to the irregular shape of the traditional chairs in cars, offices or at the home.
Prevention is the best form of medicine and is better than cure. But lifestyles have altered to such a state where it becomes almost impossible to avoid the rigors of travel. One can however choose a better alternative in the form of auto back support. It can be fitted to one’s vehicle, computer chair or any other regular chair which might be the retiring zone for anybody. This type of support system makes your life much easier and you forget the back pain forever. You can improve your posture with the support system developed by some of the reputed firms in this field.
How to Effectively Detoxify the Body and Be Healthy
Even though genes play a vital role in determining the kind of diseases or conditions a person may be prone to, the person's choice of food is also crucial in the development of illnesses and other diseases. Everything that gets into the mouth must be considered carefully because what a person eats--and drinks--will ultimately determine whether he or she is susceptible to serious lifestyle-related diseases such as diabetes, heart ailments and many others.
Aside from drinking plenty of water, eating judiciously, and exercising regularly, people should also consider undergoing detoxification, a process which can eliminate toxins and other harmful substances that have accumulated inside the body. Here are some ways on how you can detoxify.
Eat Plenty Of Fiber
People who do not eat vegetables usually are constipated and they find it difficult to pass stool. Ideally, a person has to move bowels at least once a day so that no fecal matter or waste materials are left inside the gut to rot. It is important to note that these toxins and wastes can get reabsorbed by your body if they are not immediately eliminated.
Fiber is important in helping the colon move the stool. Since fiber attracts water, it makes your stool bigger, denser and easy to move and eliminate. Good sources of fiber are apples, green leafy vegetables, psyllium seed husks and whole grains.
Laxative Tea
Constipated individuals usually drink laxative tea to help them pass their bowel every once in a while. These types of tea, which usually contain the herb senna, also help others detoxify or cleanse their gut. Laxative tea works by stimulating peristalsis, or muscle contractions in the colon that help food particles and other waste materials pass out of the system.
Some individuals use laxative tea to lose weight. Although this might be effective because the food that you eat will immediately be pushed out of your colon, drinking laxative tea regularly might also have adverse effects. In some people, their colon's ability to contract and move is impaired altogether because of too much drinking of laxative tea.
Enemas and Colonic Irrigation
Of all the means of detoxifying, colonic irrigation or enemas might bring very unpleasant experiences. This type of cleansing program usually involves flushing of water into the rectum. Special equipment is used by a colon therapist to infuse water on your colon and stimulate peristalsis. Oftentimes, people who are undergoing such procedure feel abdominal discomfort.
Although both enema and colonic irrigation are done by injecting water inside the gut through the rectum, the former usually cleans the lower portion of the colon, while the latter makes sure that the entire length of the gut is rinsed out.
Raw Food Diet
Another form of cleansing involves eating only raw foods for a certain period of time. The process of detoxification using the raw food diet, however, is much slower. In this kind of diet, you can opt to eat strictly raw foods (raw nuts and sashimi for protein), or modify it a little bit by including baked fish and chicken. However, once you start to eat greasy and starchy foods or dairy products, your detoxification through raw food diet will be jeopardized.
Juice Fasting
You might have heard about Beyonce Knowles losing around 20 pounds after being in a juice diet for just a couple of days. Usually diets like this involve only drinking juice such as lemonade plus plenty of water. Eating solid food is prohibited. The key to making this diet work is by drinking only freshly-squeezed vegetable or fruit juices because they contain all the vitamins and minerals your body needs to survive the day. Using concentrated juice bought in supermarkets, especially those that have sugar added, usually defeats the purpose of cleansing.
Detoxification Products
The easiest and fastest way to detoxify is by using readily available products or supplements that support the internal cleansing process. Although there are many products in the market, make sure that the one you will choose do not only cleanse your gut, but help detoxify your other internal organs as well.
Aside from drinking plenty of water, eating judiciously, and exercising regularly, people should also consider undergoing detoxification, a process which can eliminate toxins and other harmful substances that have accumulated inside the body. Here are some ways on how you can detoxify.
Eat Plenty Of Fiber
People who do not eat vegetables usually are constipated and they find it difficult to pass stool. Ideally, a person has to move bowels at least once a day so that no fecal matter or waste materials are left inside the gut to rot. It is important to note that these toxins and wastes can get reabsorbed by your body if they are not immediately eliminated.
Fiber is important in helping the colon move the stool. Since fiber attracts water, it makes your stool bigger, denser and easy to move and eliminate. Good sources of fiber are apples, green leafy vegetables, psyllium seed husks and whole grains.
Laxative Tea
Constipated individuals usually drink laxative tea to help them pass their bowel every once in a while. These types of tea, which usually contain the herb senna, also help others detoxify or cleanse their gut. Laxative tea works by stimulating peristalsis, or muscle contractions in the colon that help food particles and other waste materials pass out of the system.
Some individuals use laxative tea to lose weight. Although this might be effective because the food that you eat will immediately be pushed out of your colon, drinking laxative tea regularly might also have adverse effects. In some people, their colon's ability to contract and move is impaired altogether because of too much drinking of laxative tea.
Enemas and Colonic Irrigation
Of all the means of detoxifying, colonic irrigation or enemas might bring very unpleasant experiences. This type of cleansing program usually involves flushing of water into the rectum. Special equipment is used by a colon therapist to infuse water on your colon and stimulate peristalsis. Oftentimes, people who are undergoing such procedure feel abdominal discomfort.
Although both enema and colonic irrigation are done by injecting water inside the gut through the rectum, the former usually cleans the lower portion of the colon, while the latter makes sure that the entire length of the gut is rinsed out.
Raw Food Diet
Another form of cleansing involves eating only raw foods for a certain period of time. The process of detoxification using the raw food diet, however, is much slower. In this kind of diet, you can opt to eat strictly raw foods (raw nuts and sashimi for protein), or modify it a little bit by including baked fish and chicken. However, once you start to eat greasy and starchy foods or dairy products, your detoxification through raw food diet will be jeopardized.
Juice Fasting
You might have heard about Beyonce Knowles losing around 20 pounds after being in a juice diet for just a couple of days. Usually diets like this involve only drinking juice such as lemonade plus plenty of water. Eating solid food is prohibited. The key to making this diet work is by drinking only freshly-squeezed vegetable or fruit juices because they contain all the vitamins and minerals your body needs to survive the day. Using concentrated juice bought in supermarkets, especially those that have sugar added, usually defeats the purpose of cleansing.
Detoxification Products
The easiest and fastest way to detoxify is by using readily available products or supplements that support the internal cleansing process. Although there are many products in the market, make sure that the one you will choose do not only cleanse your gut, but help detoxify your other internal organs as well.
5 Cheap Ways To Build A Million Dollar Business From Home
Home-based businesses are different than other businesses. Since you're not dealing with a lot of money, you can't afford to take a lot of losses. You can get the skill set without spending big money, but your focus must be on learning to communicate properly with your market. You can then get bigger by investing lots of money after you've already made it.
That seems to be the common misconception about starting a business from home and accounts for a major portion of the 95% drop-out rate in network marketing. What you choose to bypass in labor you must replace in dollars, but it's necessary to do the labor first. One reason is to avoid going bankrupt, and another is that the skill set is necessary.
The best place to start, whether you are brand new or you've been around for a while with a stalled business, is to seek proper marketing education. Your company will only go as far as teaching you how to sell and promote their own product to the masses. They don't care if you make millions for yourself because, quite frankly, most people don't have that much patience with building a business. What they want is for you to get as many people on their products as you can before you quit.
Marketing is finding a demand and filling it with supply. The best way to find customers isn't talking to everyone you meet or leaving a paper trail of flyers wherever you go. There are techniques, mainly on the internet using search engines and distribution services, that can get qualified people calling you instead of you calling them. This saves you time and money, which are the two resources most people never seem to ever have enough of.
When you seek proper marketing education, which sometimes comes with a money-back guarantee unlike the trainings your company offers, you will begin to learn that you should never lead from your business. This is the second money-saving technique that will speed up your business toward that million dollars.
People who join your organization without an attachment to your products or services will quit. It happens all the time because it takes time and patience to build a home-based business. If someone isn't serious about helping others with the products they are endorsing, they'll drop out as soon as they realize they won't make a financial killing in the first month after joining you.
Once you have established that the kind of person you are looking for is someone who is product-driven, the next cheap technique to do is aquire leads and start practicing with a script. This is where many people get into financial trouble because they think they need to spend tons of money for "quality" leads. Well, there is no such thing. All leads stink!
You can find lead brokers on the internet offering ten cent leads of people who have a passion for your type pf products. You have to dig through all of the people who are un-interested until you find the people with your common interests. Once you get that, you won't have to dig anymore because you'll know where to look and you won't have to convince people they need what you have.
Now that you've found a cheap way to practice speaking with people who have a desire for what you want, what do you say? Becoming a good copywriter is something your education will guide you on, and you won't have to spend any extra money for it. Scripts are essential for success in network marketing, and it's the power of good copywriting that can skyrocket your business.
What you want to avoid is writing a bunch of things that will come across as hype. Simply focus on the needs of the person at the other end of the telephone and how your product or service can benefit them. Be as specific as possible because most people aren't looking to cure every problem they've ever had. They are usually looking for something very specific.
Once you have written compelling copy to get the interest of your prospect, the next cheap technique is to call them on the telephone. Notice how I didn't say to send them an e-mail or text message? The telephone is still the best way to communicate with another person long distance, dispite how popular the internet and e-mail have become. And it's still cheap!
When you make a connection, be brief. This is a relationship business, but here we don't want to invest much unlike what is commonly taught. The more you practice your script, the easier it will become to get your point across. If your prospect is still on the fence after your presentation, let them call you back. This lets them know you are not desperate.
Network marketing is the only way you can become a millionaire without spending a lot of money to get your business started. Follow these 5 simple techniques and you'll have a good chance at securing what you already have in order to go for what you want.
That seems to be the common misconception about starting a business from home and accounts for a major portion of the 95% drop-out rate in network marketing. What you choose to bypass in labor you must replace in dollars, but it's necessary to do the labor first. One reason is to avoid going bankrupt, and another is that the skill set is necessary.
The best place to start, whether you are brand new or you've been around for a while with a stalled business, is to seek proper marketing education. Your company will only go as far as teaching you how to sell and promote their own product to the masses. They don't care if you make millions for yourself because, quite frankly, most people don't have that much patience with building a business. What they want is for you to get as many people on their products as you can before you quit.
Marketing is finding a demand and filling it with supply. The best way to find customers isn't talking to everyone you meet or leaving a paper trail of flyers wherever you go. There are techniques, mainly on the internet using search engines and distribution services, that can get qualified people calling you instead of you calling them. This saves you time and money, which are the two resources most people never seem to ever have enough of.
When you seek proper marketing education, which sometimes comes with a money-back guarantee unlike the trainings your company offers, you will begin to learn that you should never lead from your business. This is the second money-saving technique that will speed up your business toward that million dollars.
People who join your organization without an attachment to your products or services will quit. It happens all the time because it takes time and patience to build a home-based business. If someone isn't serious about helping others with the products they are endorsing, they'll drop out as soon as they realize they won't make a financial killing in the first month after joining you.
Once you have established that the kind of person you are looking for is someone who is product-driven, the next cheap technique to do is aquire leads and start practicing with a script. This is where many people get into financial trouble because they think they need to spend tons of money for "quality" leads. Well, there is no such thing. All leads stink!
You can find lead brokers on the internet offering ten cent leads of people who have a passion for your type pf products. You have to dig through all of the people who are un-interested until you find the people with your common interests. Once you get that, you won't have to dig anymore because you'll know where to look and you won't have to convince people they need what you have.
Now that you've found a cheap way to practice speaking with people who have a desire for what you want, what do you say? Becoming a good copywriter is something your education will guide you on, and you won't have to spend any extra money for it. Scripts are essential for success in network marketing, and it's the power of good copywriting that can skyrocket your business.
What you want to avoid is writing a bunch of things that will come across as hype. Simply focus on the needs of the person at the other end of the telephone and how your product or service can benefit them. Be as specific as possible because most people aren't looking to cure every problem they've ever had. They are usually looking for something very specific.
Once you have written compelling copy to get the interest of your prospect, the next cheap technique is to call them on the telephone. Notice how I didn't say to send them an e-mail or text message? The telephone is still the best way to communicate with another person long distance, dispite how popular the internet and e-mail have become. And it's still cheap!
When you make a connection, be brief. This is a relationship business, but here we don't want to invest much unlike what is commonly taught. The more you practice your script, the easier it will become to get your point across. If your prospect is still on the fence after your presentation, let them call you back. This lets them know you are not desperate.
Network marketing is the only way you can become a millionaire without spending a lot of money to get your business started. Follow these 5 simple techniques and you'll have a good chance at securing what you already have in order to go for what you want.
1/20/2009
Tax Exchange – Frequently Asked Questions
After years of conducting tens of thousands of successful 1031 exchanges, we found that there are a number of frequently asked questions related to this type of transaction…
Equity and Gain
Is my tax based on my equity or my taxable gain?
Tax is calculated upon the taxable gain. Gain and equity are two separate and distinct items. To determine your gain, identify your original purchase price, deduct any depreciation which has been previously reported, then add the value of any improvements which have been made to the property. The resulting figure will reflect your cost or tax basis. Your gain is then calculated by subtracting the cost basis from the net sales price.
Deferring All Gain
Is there a simple rule for structuring an exchange where all the taxable gain will be deferred?
Yes, the gain will be totally deferred if you:
1) Purchase a replacement property which is equal to or greater in value than the net selling price of your relinquished (exchange) property, and
2) Move all equity from one property to the other.
Definition of Like-Kind
What are the rules regarding the exchange of like-kind properties? May I exchange a vacant parcel of land for an improved property or a rental house for a multiple-unit building?
Yes, "like-kind" refers more to the type of investment than to the type of property. Think in terms of investment real estate for investment real estate, business assets for business assets, etc.
Simultaneous Exchange Pitfalls
Is it possible to complete a simultaneous exchange without an intermediary or an exchange agreement?
While it may be possible, it may not be wise. With the Safe Harbor addition of qualified intermediaries in the Treasury Regulations and the recent adoption of good funds laws in several states, it is very difficult to close a simultaneous exchange without the benefit of either an intermediary or exchange agreement. Since two closing entities cannot hold the same exchange funds on the same day, serious constructive receipt and other legal issues arise for the Exchangor attempting such a simultaneous transaction. The addition of the intermediary Safe Harbor was an effort to abate the practice of attempting these marginal transactions. It is the view of most tax professionals that an exchange completed without an intermediary or an exchange agreement will not qualify for deferred gain treatment. And if already completed, the transaction would not pass an IRS examination due to constructive receipt and structural exchange discrepancies. The investment in a qualified intermediary is insignificant in comparison to the tax risk associated with attempting an exchange, which could be easily disqualified.
Property Conversion
How long must I wait before I can convert an investment property into my personal residence?
A few years ago the Internal Revenue Service proposed a one-year holding period before investment property could be converted, sold or transferred. Congress never adopted this proposal, so therefore no definitive holding period exists currently. However, this should not be interpreted as an unwritten approval to convert investment property at any time. Because the one-year period clearly reflects the intent of the IRS, most tax practitioners advise their clients to hold property at least one year before converting it into a personal residence.
Remember, intent is very important. It should be your intention at the time of acquisition to hold the property for its productive use in a trade or business or for its investment potential.
Involuntary Conversion
What if my property was involuntarily converted by a disaster or I was required to sell due to a governmental or eminent domain action?
Involuntary conversion is addressed within Section 1033 of the Internal Revenue Code. If your property is converted involuntarily, the time frame for reinvestment is extended to 24 months from the end of the tax year in which the property was converted. You may also apply for a 12-month reinvestment extension.
Facilitators and Intermediaries
Is there a difference between facilitators?
Most definitely. As in any professional discipline, the capability of facilitators will vary based upon their exchange knowledge, experience and real estate and/or tax familiarity.
Facilitators and Fees
Should fees be a factor in selecting a facilitator?
Yes. However, they should be considered only after first determining each facilitator's ability to complete a qualifying transaction. This can be accomplished by researching their reputation, knowledge and level of experience.
Personal Residence Exchanges
Do the exchange rules differ between investment properties and personal residences? If I sell my personal residence, what is the time frame in which I must reinvest in another home and what must I spend on the new residence to defer gain taxes?
The rules for personal residence rollovers were formerly found in Section 1034 of the Internal Revenue Code. You may remember that those rules dictated that you had to reinvest the proceeds from the sale of your personal residence within 24 months before or after the sale, and you had to acquire a property which reflected a value equal to or greater than the value of the residence sold. These rules were discontinued with the passage of the 1997 Tax Reform Act. Currently, if a personal residence is sold, provided that residence was occupied by the taxpayer for at least two of the last five years, up to $250,000 (single) and $500,000 (married) of capital gain is exempt from taxation.
Exchanging and Improvements
May I exchange my equity in an investment property and use the proceeds to complete an improvement on a vacant lot I currently own?
Although the attempt to move equity from one investment property to another is a key element of tax deferred exchanging, you may not exchange into property you already own.
Related Parties
May I exchange into a property that is being sold by a relative?
Yes. However, any exchange between related parties requires a two-year holding period for both parties.
Partnership or Partial Interests
If I am an owner of investment property in conjunction with others, may I exchange only my partial interest in the property?
Yes. Partial interests qualify for exchanging within the scope of Section 1031. However, if your interest is not in the property but actually an interest in the partnership which owns the property, your exchange would not qualify. This is because partnership interests are excepted from Section 1031. But don't be confused! If the entire partnership desired to stay together and exchange their property for a replacement, that would qualify.
Another caveat. Those individuals or groups owning partnership interests, who desire to complete an exchange and have for tax purposes made an election under IRC Section 761(a), can qualify for deferred gain treatment under Section 1031. This can be a tricky issue! See elsewhere in this publication for more information. Then, only undertake this election with proper tax counsel and only with the election by all partners!
Reverse Exchanges
Are reverse exchanges considered legal?
Although reverse exchanges were deliberately omitted from Section 1031, they can still be accomplished with the aid of an experienced intermediary. Since reverses are considered an aggressive form of exchanging, your intermediary and tax advisor should assist you with exchange and tax planning based upon successful reverse exchange case law.
The Taxation Section of the American Bar Association has submitted suggested guidelines for the IRS in evaluating reverse exchanges and issuing new regulations. Although it is unknown when the IRS will make a definitive reverse exchange ruling, one is expected in the future.
Identification
Why are the identification rules so time restrictive? Is there any flexibility within them?
The current identification rules represent a compromise which was proposed by the IRS and adopted in 1984. Prior to that time there were no time-related guidelines. The current 45-day provision was created to eliminate questions about the time period for identification and there is absolutely no flexibility written into the rule and no extensions are available.
In a delayed exchange, is there any limit to property value when identifying by using the 200% rule?
Yes. Although you may identify any three properties of any value under the three property rule, when using the 200% rule there is a restriction. It is when identifying four or more properties, the total aggregate value of the properties identified must not exceed more than 200% of the value of the relinquished property.
An additional exception exists for those whose identification does not qualify under the three property or two hundred percent rules. The 95% exception allows the identification of any number of properties, provided the total aggregate value of the properties acquired totals at least 95% of the properties identified.
Should identifications be made to the intermediary or to an attorney or escrow or title company?
Identifications may be made to any party listed above. However, many times the escrow holder is not equipped to receive your identification if they have not yet opened an escrow. Therefore it is easier and safer to identify through the intermediary, provided the identification is postmarked or received within the 45-day identification period.
Equity and Gain
Is my tax based on my equity or my taxable gain?
Tax is calculated upon the taxable gain. Gain and equity are two separate and distinct items. To determine your gain, identify your original purchase price, deduct any depreciation which has been previously reported, then add the value of any improvements which have been made to the property. The resulting figure will reflect your cost or tax basis. Your gain is then calculated by subtracting the cost basis from the net sales price.
Deferring All Gain
Is there a simple rule for structuring an exchange where all the taxable gain will be deferred?
Yes, the gain will be totally deferred if you:
1) Purchase a replacement property which is equal to or greater in value than the net selling price of your relinquished (exchange) property, and
2) Move all equity from one property to the other.
Definition of Like-Kind
What are the rules regarding the exchange of like-kind properties? May I exchange a vacant parcel of land for an improved property or a rental house for a multiple-unit building?
Yes, "like-kind" refers more to the type of investment than to the type of property. Think in terms of investment real estate for investment real estate, business assets for business assets, etc.
Simultaneous Exchange Pitfalls
Is it possible to complete a simultaneous exchange without an intermediary or an exchange agreement?
While it may be possible, it may not be wise. With the Safe Harbor addition of qualified intermediaries in the Treasury Regulations and the recent adoption of good funds laws in several states, it is very difficult to close a simultaneous exchange without the benefit of either an intermediary or exchange agreement. Since two closing entities cannot hold the same exchange funds on the same day, serious constructive receipt and other legal issues arise for the Exchangor attempting such a simultaneous transaction. The addition of the intermediary Safe Harbor was an effort to abate the practice of attempting these marginal transactions. It is the view of most tax professionals that an exchange completed without an intermediary or an exchange agreement will not qualify for deferred gain treatment. And if already completed, the transaction would not pass an IRS examination due to constructive receipt and structural exchange discrepancies. The investment in a qualified intermediary is insignificant in comparison to the tax risk associated with attempting an exchange, which could be easily disqualified.
Property Conversion
How long must I wait before I can convert an investment property into my personal residence?
A few years ago the Internal Revenue Service proposed a one-year holding period before investment property could be converted, sold or transferred. Congress never adopted this proposal, so therefore no definitive holding period exists currently. However, this should not be interpreted as an unwritten approval to convert investment property at any time. Because the one-year period clearly reflects the intent of the IRS, most tax practitioners advise their clients to hold property at least one year before converting it into a personal residence.
Remember, intent is very important. It should be your intention at the time of acquisition to hold the property for its productive use in a trade or business or for its investment potential.
Involuntary Conversion
What if my property was involuntarily converted by a disaster or I was required to sell due to a governmental or eminent domain action?
Involuntary conversion is addressed within Section 1033 of the Internal Revenue Code. If your property is converted involuntarily, the time frame for reinvestment is extended to 24 months from the end of the tax year in which the property was converted. You may also apply for a 12-month reinvestment extension.
Facilitators and Intermediaries
Is there a difference between facilitators?
Most definitely. As in any professional discipline, the capability of facilitators will vary based upon their exchange knowledge, experience and real estate and/or tax familiarity.
Facilitators and Fees
Should fees be a factor in selecting a facilitator?
Yes. However, they should be considered only after first determining each facilitator's ability to complete a qualifying transaction. This can be accomplished by researching their reputation, knowledge and level of experience.
Personal Residence Exchanges
Do the exchange rules differ between investment properties and personal residences? If I sell my personal residence, what is the time frame in which I must reinvest in another home and what must I spend on the new residence to defer gain taxes?
The rules for personal residence rollovers were formerly found in Section 1034 of the Internal Revenue Code. You may remember that those rules dictated that you had to reinvest the proceeds from the sale of your personal residence within 24 months before or after the sale, and you had to acquire a property which reflected a value equal to or greater than the value of the residence sold. These rules were discontinued with the passage of the 1997 Tax Reform Act. Currently, if a personal residence is sold, provided that residence was occupied by the taxpayer for at least two of the last five years, up to $250,000 (single) and $500,000 (married) of capital gain is exempt from taxation.
Exchanging and Improvements
May I exchange my equity in an investment property and use the proceeds to complete an improvement on a vacant lot I currently own?
Although the attempt to move equity from one investment property to another is a key element of tax deferred exchanging, you may not exchange into property you already own.
Related Parties
May I exchange into a property that is being sold by a relative?
Yes. However, any exchange between related parties requires a two-year holding period for both parties.
Partnership or Partial Interests
If I am an owner of investment property in conjunction with others, may I exchange only my partial interest in the property?
Yes. Partial interests qualify for exchanging within the scope of Section 1031. However, if your interest is not in the property but actually an interest in the partnership which owns the property, your exchange would not qualify. This is because partnership interests are excepted from Section 1031. But don't be confused! If the entire partnership desired to stay together and exchange their property for a replacement, that would qualify.
Another caveat. Those individuals or groups owning partnership interests, who desire to complete an exchange and have for tax purposes made an election under IRC Section 761(a), can qualify for deferred gain treatment under Section 1031. This can be a tricky issue! See elsewhere in this publication for more information. Then, only undertake this election with proper tax counsel and only with the election by all partners!
Reverse Exchanges
Are reverse exchanges considered legal?
Although reverse exchanges were deliberately omitted from Section 1031, they can still be accomplished with the aid of an experienced intermediary. Since reverses are considered an aggressive form of exchanging, your intermediary and tax advisor should assist you with exchange and tax planning based upon successful reverse exchange case law.
The Taxation Section of the American Bar Association has submitted suggested guidelines for the IRS in evaluating reverse exchanges and issuing new regulations. Although it is unknown when the IRS will make a definitive reverse exchange ruling, one is expected in the future.
Identification
Why are the identification rules so time restrictive? Is there any flexibility within them?
The current identification rules represent a compromise which was proposed by the IRS and adopted in 1984. Prior to that time there were no time-related guidelines. The current 45-day provision was created to eliminate questions about the time period for identification and there is absolutely no flexibility written into the rule and no extensions are available.
In a delayed exchange, is there any limit to property value when identifying by using the 200% rule?
Yes. Although you may identify any three properties of any value under the three property rule, when using the 200% rule there is a restriction. It is when identifying four or more properties, the total aggregate value of the properties identified must not exceed more than 200% of the value of the relinquished property.
An additional exception exists for those whose identification does not qualify under the three property or two hundred percent rules. The 95% exception allows the identification of any number of properties, provided the total aggregate value of the properties acquired totals at least 95% of the properties identified.
Should identifications be made to the intermediary or to an attorney or escrow or title company?
Identifications may be made to any party listed above. However, many times the escrow holder is not equipped to receive your identification if they have not yet opened an escrow. Therefore it is easier and safer to identify through the intermediary, provided the identification is postmarked or received within the 45-day identification period.
1/19/2009
Whiplash Injury and Accident Claims
Injuries most commonly sustained following car crashes and other road traffic accidents are called whiplash injuries. Your head is suddenly yanked backwards or sideways, affecting many areas of your body, particularly, your bones, discs, muscle tendons, and nerves in your neck. Swelling and inflammation occur following the impact.
The type of car accident that usually ends up in whiplash injuries are rear-end car accidents because of the sudden increase in speed which causes your head to snap back and then forward. Head-on collisions may also cause whiplash injuries, only that the head is jerked forwards then backwards instead of the other way around.
Car accidents are not the only way you could obtain a whiplash injury. Any situation that involves an abrupt change in speed and the neck is not protected one way or the other can result to a whiplash injury. In fact, falling off a horse, a bike or anything else, can cause a whiplash injury.
You will know when you have sustained a whiplash injury when you begin to sense some stiffness in your muscles and pain, particularly in the back, neck, jaw, arms or shoulders. Nausea, blurred vision and difficulty in swallowing have also been reported by persons who have gone through injuries of such nature. Memory loss, impaired concentration, personality changes such as irritability, nervousness and depression may also indicate a whiplash injury; so are sleep disturbances and restlessness. Some of these signs may happen almost immediately following the impact, but sometimes you will not even know you have suffered from a whiplash injury until a few hours or even days later.
Whiplash injuries are diagnosed by way of radiological examinations and medical imaging.
Characteristically these symptoms may last for a period of up to six months, and your doctor may prescribe pain relievers or muscle exercises to deal with the problem. In more severe circumstances, the symptoms of whiplash injuries can go on over a period of several years, and there are even cases when permanent damage is a possibility.
You should know that you are entitled to a whiplash injury compensation claim if you have suffered whiplash injuries resulting from an accident that is not at all your fault. You can ask a personal injury solicitor to help you through with the processing. There is practically no harm in filing for such claims because usually you will not be required to pay any fees at all if you lose the case. In legal terms, this is called no win no fee, meaning, you pay only if you win. In many cases a personal injury solicitor will also be able to offer a 100% compensation guarantee. This means that if your whiplash claim is successful, your solicitor would recover their legal costs, along with a success fee from the third party insurance company. Therefore you do not have to pay anything from start to finish.
There are some precautions you can take when you are on the road which may help to minimize the risk of a collision causing a whiplash injury. This includes making sure you have a properly installed head restraint.
The type of car accident that usually ends up in whiplash injuries are rear-end car accidents because of the sudden increase in speed which causes your head to snap back and then forward. Head-on collisions may also cause whiplash injuries, only that the head is jerked forwards then backwards instead of the other way around.
Car accidents are not the only way you could obtain a whiplash injury. Any situation that involves an abrupt change in speed and the neck is not protected one way or the other can result to a whiplash injury. In fact, falling off a horse, a bike or anything else, can cause a whiplash injury.
You will know when you have sustained a whiplash injury when you begin to sense some stiffness in your muscles and pain, particularly in the back, neck, jaw, arms or shoulders. Nausea, blurred vision and difficulty in swallowing have also been reported by persons who have gone through injuries of such nature. Memory loss, impaired concentration, personality changes such as irritability, nervousness and depression may also indicate a whiplash injury; so are sleep disturbances and restlessness. Some of these signs may happen almost immediately following the impact, but sometimes you will not even know you have suffered from a whiplash injury until a few hours or even days later.
Whiplash injuries are diagnosed by way of radiological examinations and medical imaging.
Characteristically these symptoms may last for a period of up to six months, and your doctor may prescribe pain relievers or muscle exercises to deal with the problem. In more severe circumstances, the symptoms of whiplash injuries can go on over a period of several years, and there are even cases when permanent damage is a possibility.
You should know that you are entitled to a whiplash injury compensation claim if you have suffered whiplash injuries resulting from an accident that is not at all your fault. You can ask a personal injury solicitor to help you through with the processing. There is practically no harm in filing for such claims because usually you will not be required to pay any fees at all if you lose the case. In legal terms, this is called no win no fee, meaning, you pay only if you win. In many cases a personal injury solicitor will also be able to offer a 100% compensation guarantee. This means that if your whiplash claim is successful, your solicitor would recover their legal costs, along with a success fee from the third party insurance company. Therefore you do not have to pay anything from start to finish.
There are some precautions you can take when you are on the road which may help to minimize the risk of a collision causing a whiplash injury. This includes making sure you have a properly installed head restraint.
Get an iPod and Get Green Too
I simply love my iPod Nano. It has many different applications that make it more than just a music storage device. The computer actually recognizes your iPod as a device for storing data almost like a thumb drive. I can download movies and watch them on my iPod too. It can store up to sixteen hours of video. That is almost 8 movies. How neat is it to be able to watch a movie on something that small. Even more so , its in the palm of your hand. Also, there are games that you are able to download on to it using the iTunes program that comes with it. I don’t use the other functions really , such as the notepad , stopwatch or calendar. I find that there are better ways of keeping up with those things aside from doing it on my iPod. That isn’t the reason why I love my iPod though. The best thing about the iPod for me is in how I am able to browse through my music with ease. It shows album covers on a rotating circle which is easy to use with the circle pad that is on the face of the device. Also I think that browsing through the list after you pass the album art is very simple because it is black and white then. You’ll become very familiar with a clicking noise when you use the iPod - don’t worry. It’s a very familiar sound whenever you’re looking through songs. It helps the eye be in time with the ear so you know when to stop scrolling if you see what you are looking for.
Personally, I have never had a problem with my iPod. They have a lot of great features too if you’re thinking of getting one for yourself or maybe for a family member or friend. One of the things I like the best is that iPods can hold more songs than I ever even knew existed. It’s a great tool to have, especially if you live in the city or whenever you walk everywhere. The music blocks out all of the loud noises and strange conversations that occur while I’m sitting next to many people on the subway. Aside from all the technical parts, the variety of colors you are able to buy are almost endless too. The newer versions of iPods come in all sorts of very bright colors, rare to any other music player on the market now. The screens match the skin in how vibrant the colors are on the 320-by-240-pixel resolution screen. In my opinion everyone should own an iPod. They’re great little devices - all you have to do is import songs from CD’s you own, buy them from iTunes and then sync and create fabulous playlists! As time goes on it’s clear that everything needs to become more friendly to the environment too, and Apple has gone the extra mile by making the pod with arsenic free glass, mercury free, and a highly recyclable outside enclosure as well. They’re very trendy and also very eco-friendly keeping with all the new "Green" alternatives you see popping up everywhere now.
Personally, I have never had a problem with my iPod. They have a lot of great features too if you’re thinking of getting one for yourself or maybe for a family member or friend. One of the things I like the best is that iPods can hold more songs than I ever even knew existed. It’s a great tool to have, especially if you live in the city or whenever you walk everywhere. The music blocks out all of the loud noises and strange conversations that occur while I’m sitting next to many people on the subway. Aside from all the technical parts, the variety of colors you are able to buy are almost endless too. The newer versions of iPods come in all sorts of very bright colors, rare to any other music player on the market now. The screens match the skin in how vibrant the colors are on the 320-by-240-pixel resolution screen. In my opinion everyone should own an iPod. They’re great little devices - all you have to do is import songs from CD’s you own, buy them from iTunes and then sync and create fabulous playlists! As time goes on it’s clear that everything needs to become more friendly to the environment too, and Apple has gone the extra mile by making the pod with arsenic free glass, mercury free, and a highly recyclable outside enclosure as well. They’re very trendy and also very eco-friendly keeping with all the new "Green" alternatives you see popping up everywhere now.
1/11/2009
Essential Basics In Wrongful Death Litigation
Sometimes in personal injury cases, the victim has already lost the ability of filing a lawsuit for himself. This situation happens if the victim was still unconscious, succumbed to a long-term coma, totally paralyzed and worst case is if he was already dead.
If the victim died because of an accident caused by another person or entity's negligence and/or wrongful act, then the personal representatives of the victim's estate may file a wrongful death lawsuit against the liable party.
People who can file a wrongful death lawsuit
The following persons or personal representatives of the victim acting on their behalf can assert a cause of action for the victim's death that was caused by a negligent and/or wrongful act:
Group A
- Surviving spouse or domestic partner
- Children
- Offspring of children who are already deceased
- In case the victim has no surviving children, persons including surviving spouse or domestic partner entitled with
the victim's property through intestate succession
Group B
Whether they are qualified or not in the Group A, if they had been dependents of the victim, they may also sue for the victim's wrongful death.
- Putative spouse or the surviving spouse from a void or can be considered void marriage if the court found that he or she believed in good faith that the marriage with the victim was legitimate or valid.
- Children by the putative spouse
- Parents
- Stepchildren
Group C
-A minor who has resided with the victim's household during the previous 180 days at the time of the victim's death and the victim's dependent for a half or more of his/her support.
Many people may become qualified to sue for the victim's premature death.
State of California's statute of limitations in filing a wrongful death lawsuit:
Currently, the state of California's Statute of Limitations for suing on account of a wrongful death case is two years starting from the date of the accident or the incident that caused the wrongful death.
Failure to file a lawsuit for wrongful death within the two-year period means that the qualified persons lost or waived their right to sue.
Damages for wrongful death or the compensation entitled to those who have sued for the victim's wrongful death.
• Financial Support – the monetary support, if any, that the wrongful death victim would have provided for the surviving family or dependents, either for the duration of the victim's life expectancy before the sudden death occurred or the life expectancy of the plaintiff, whichever among the calculations would be shorter.
• Expenses for the victim's funeral and burial services – total cost
• Loss of gifts and benefits – the gifts or benefits that the wrongful death victim was expected to provide to the person suing
• "Reasonable value of household services" that the victim was expected to provide
• Loss of love, affection, comfort, care, society, companionship, protection, assistance, moral support the victim was expected to provide
• "Loss of enjoyment of sexual relations with the victim"
• Loss of guidance and / or training that only the victim could provide
• Punitive damages – considered as punishment damages that can be awarded to the wrongful death victim's personal estate as an action of the estate's representative according to the "cause of action" that the victim would have received had he/she survived.
If the victim died because of an accident caused by another person or entity's negligence and/or wrongful act, then the personal representatives of the victim's estate may file a wrongful death lawsuit against the liable party.
People who can file a wrongful death lawsuit
The following persons or personal representatives of the victim acting on their behalf can assert a cause of action for the victim's death that was caused by a negligent and/or wrongful act:
Group A
- Surviving spouse or domestic partner
- Children
- Offspring of children who are already deceased
- In case the victim has no surviving children, persons including surviving spouse or domestic partner entitled with
the victim's property through intestate succession
Group B
Whether they are qualified or not in the Group A, if they had been dependents of the victim, they may also sue for the victim's wrongful death.
- Putative spouse or the surviving spouse from a void or can be considered void marriage if the court found that he or she believed in good faith that the marriage with the victim was legitimate or valid.
- Children by the putative spouse
- Parents
- Stepchildren
Group C
-A minor who has resided with the victim's household during the previous 180 days at the time of the victim's death and the victim's dependent for a half or more of his/her support.
Many people may become qualified to sue for the victim's premature death.
State of California's statute of limitations in filing a wrongful death lawsuit:
Currently, the state of California's Statute of Limitations for suing on account of a wrongful death case is two years starting from the date of the accident or the incident that caused the wrongful death.
Failure to file a lawsuit for wrongful death within the two-year period means that the qualified persons lost or waived their right to sue.
Damages for wrongful death or the compensation entitled to those who have sued for the victim's wrongful death.
• Financial Support – the monetary support, if any, that the wrongful death victim would have provided for the surviving family or dependents, either for the duration of the victim's life expectancy before the sudden death occurred or the life expectancy of the plaintiff, whichever among the calculations would be shorter.
• Expenses for the victim's funeral and burial services – total cost
• Loss of gifts and benefits – the gifts or benefits that the wrongful death victim was expected to provide to the person suing
• "Reasonable value of household services" that the victim was expected to provide
• Loss of love, affection, comfort, care, society, companionship, protection, assistance, moral support the victim was expected to provide
• "Loss of enjoyment of sexual relations with the victim"
• Loss of guidance and / or training that only the victim could provide
• Punitive damages – considered as punishment damages that can be awarded to the wrongful death victim's personal estate as an action of the estate's representative according to the "cause of action" that the victim would have received had he/she survived.
What Makes A Killer Marketing System? Here Are 7 Prime Components
When it comes to marketing enterprise software and other complex technology products or services, your efforts must do more than simply generate leads. You’ve got to move prospective customers from curiosity to action often using alternative and largely automated methods.
For that you need a marketing system – a group of integrated processes that work together to identify your best new business prospects, reach and develop those prospects into qualified leads and hand them over to the sales team consistently and profitably.
Here’s a look at 7 prime components of a solid marketing system.
Prospect Pool. At the front end of the marketing system, you need a well-defined source of potential new business leads. If you’re selling a complex, high ticket, business-to-business product or service, the world is not your market. The people in your prospect pool should, at minimum, be in the right positions at the right companies to have a need for and means of buying your product.
You can find good prospects in rented or purchased mailing lists, among trade publication subscribers and association members and often even in your own database.
Demand Generation. Once you have a good source of potential prospects, you need to get their attention and interest. How you do this depends on where they are in the buying process.
You can use pay-per-click advertising and search engine optimization to reach people who are already searching for a solution. You’ll want to use tactics such as direct mail, tele-prospecting, email and direct response advertising to reach people who aren’t actively looking for you yet.
Lead Nurturing. Some of the prospects who find you through search engines may be ready to speak with a sales person right away, but in my experience 75% to 80% or more of your prospects won’t be ready to buy when you first engage with them. The lead nurturing (or lead development) process in your marketing system helps these prospects become more familiar with you and your solutions, and moves them forward toward the sale.
Events, presentations, reminders, and the occasional phone call are all good lead nurturing tactics.
Stay in Touch. Some prospects are further from actually needing or wanting your solution than others. These prospects simply cannot be moved forward in the pipeline right now. But if they are people who could very well need your solution in the future, your marketing system should provide you with a method of gently reminding them of your existence without being an unwanted sales attempt.
Monthly electronic newsletters or email messages are good ways to do this.
Sales Hand-Off Process. At some point, all of your marketing efforts will pay off and you’ll have leads that are ready to be given to the sales team. Unfortunately, many companies don’t see this hand-off as a critical part of the marketing system and, as a result, when marketing feels a lead is ready, they simply throw it over the wall to sales.
A good marketing system should include procedures for qualifying the leads, confirming the hand-off to sales, and accepting the lead back into the marketing process if it is later found to not be sales ready.
Metrics and Measurements. No marketing system should be considered complete until it includes quantifiable goals and methods of measuring progress at each step of the way. Like any other business process, you must measure and adjust constantly in order to deliver maximum results.
Your system should measure response to various marketing tactics (such as email campaigns and direct response advertising), how well you are feeding the pipeline, and how fast your prospects are moving through each of the stages.
Automation. A good marketing system delivers results through consistent and on-going communication with your prospect pool. It also allows you to communicate with your prospects based on actions – either the things your prospect does or the things the prospect doesn’t do.
It’s possible to accomplish this without the help of technology, but it is labor intensive and unlikely to be as effective. There are so many good and affordable way to automate any marketing program, it just makes no sense not to do it. We use our own proprietary system for Tatum Marketing and our clients, but commonly-available autoresponders and a decent CRM will give you a good start.
When we develop marketing systems with our clients, these are the key elements or processes we always include. Once the system is set up, we can tweak individual elements as needed to maximize the effectiveness of the system. Some are more obvious than others, and I’ve yet to see a marketing program that runs effectively without all of these elements.
For that you need a marketing system – a group of integrated processes that work together to identify your best new business prospects, reach and develop those prospects into qualified leads and hand them over to the sales team consistently and profitably.
Here’s a look at 7 prime components of a solid marketing system.
Prospect Pool. At the front end of the marketing system, you need a well-defined source of potential new business leads. If you’re selling a complex, high ticket, business-to-business product or service, the world is not your market. The people in your prospect pool should, at minimum, be in the right positions at the right companies to have a need for and means of buying your product.
You can find good prospects in rented or purchased mailing lists, among trade publication subscribers and association members and often even in your own database.
Demand Generation. Once you have a good source of potential prospects, you need to get their attention and interest. How you do this depends on where they are in the buying process.
You can use pay-per-click advertising and search engine optimization to reach people who are already searching for a solution. You’ll want to use tactics such as direct mail, tele-prospecting, email and direct response advertising to reach people who aren’t actively looking for you yet.
Lead Nurturing. Some of the prospects who find you through search engines may be ready to speak with a sales person right away, but in my experience 75% to 80% or more of your prospects won’t be ready to buy when you first engage with them. The lead nurturing (or lead development) process in your marketing system helps these prospects become more familiar with you and your solutions, and moves them forward toward the sale.
Events, presentations, reminders, and the occasional phone call are all good lead nurturing tactics.
Stay in Touch. Some prospects are further from actually needing or wanting your solution than others. These prospects simply cannot be moved forward in the pipeline right now. But if they are people who could very well need your solution in the future, your marketing system should provide you with a method of gently reminding them of your existence without being an unwanted sales attempt.
Monthly electronic newsletters or email messages are good ways to do this.
Sales Hand-Off Process. At some point, all of your marketing efforts will pay off and you’ll have leads that are ready to be given to the sales team. Unfortunately, many companies don’t see this hand-off as a critical part of the marketing system and, as a result, when marketing feels a lead is ready, they simply throw it over the wall to sales.
A good marketing system should include procedures for qualifying the leads, confirming the hand-off to sales, and accepting the lead back into the marketing process if it is later found to not be sales ready.
Metrics and Measurements. No marketing system should be considered complete until it includes quantifiable goals and methods of measuring progress at each step of the way. Like any other business process, you must measure and adjust constantly in order to deliver maximum results.
Your system should measure response to various marketing tactics (such as email campaigns and direct response advertising), how well you are feeding the pipeline, and how fast your prospects are moving through each of the stages.
Automation. A good marketing system delivers results through consistent and on-going communication with your prospect pool. It also allows you to communicate with your prospects based on actions – either the things your prospect does or the things the prospect doesn’t do.
It’s possible to accomplish this without the help of technology, but it is labor intensive and unlikely to be as effective. There are so many good and affordable way to automate any marketing program, it just makes no sense not to do it. We use our own proprietary system for Tatum Marketing and our clients, but commonly-available autoresponders and a decent CRM will give you a good start.
When we develop marketing systems with our clients, these are the key elements or processes we always include. Once the system is set up, we can tweak individual elements as needed to maximize the effectiveness of the system. Some are more obvious than others, and I’ve yet to see a marketing program that runs effectively without all of these elements.
1/10/2009
What You Should Do With Your Carpets
Carpets make a house a home. They add warmth, color and texture to a room, transforming it into a haven of relaxation. However, a dirty carpet can make a room a virtual health hazard. Dirty carpets trap toxins, such as pet dander, dust mites and even mold.
All of these can lead to poor air quality that affects breathing conditions, such as asthma or respiratory disease. Therefore, it is important that you keep your carpets clean and fresh, so that they do not become a household problem by trapping dirt and dust in a room. By setting aside a little time each month to properly care for your carpets and area rugs you can keep them looking fresh and beautiful long after their purchase date.
Regularly cleaning your household carpets is essential for good indoor air quality. Along with improving you and your family’s health, regularly cleaning your home’s carpets will help extend the life of the carpet. You paid good money for the carpets, so you want to keep them looking new, don’t you? Dirt and foot traffic can break down carpet fibers, leading to fraying and fading. Regular cleanings help prevent unnecessary wear and tear.
Few people have the time (or the desire) to wash an entire carpet on a weekly or even monthly basis. Therefore, it is important to tackle stains or spill right away, before they have a chance to set it. This will go a long way in keeping your carpets looking tip-top. Before you tackle any stains or spills with cleaner, you should first try to remove as much of it as possible, by blotting or scraping. Test any cleaner in an unnoticeable area first, to make sure it won’t discolor your carpet. Working from the outside to the inside, dab the cleaner on the stain. Don’t rub it, or you’ll just make the stain harder to remove. Once you have covered the stain with cleaner, blot any access with a paper towel or other absorbent material. Use a bath towel (white, so the color won’t run) to dry the carpet and refresh the fibers.
Regular vacuuming is another important step in keeping carpets fresh and clean. You should vacuum your carpets once a week and more often in areas with high foot traffic. This will help prevent dirt and particles from building up, which can deteriorate carpet fibers. Once a month you should take your crevice tool (yes, there is a purpose for this tool) and vacuum around the edges of your wall-to-wall carpeting. If you have odors from smoke or pets, you can add baking soda to the vacuum cleaner bag, which will help absorb the odors.
There are many different types of carpet cleaners available, including dry cleaners and ecologically friendly cleaners. Dry cleaners, a new alternative to traditional steam cleaning, use hot carbonation extraction that deeply cleans the carpet. Because dry cleaning a carpet uses only a fraction of the water than steam cleaning, carpets dry in just a few hours, rather than a few days. The dry cleaning method is ideal for delicate or antique area rugs. Both steam cleaners and dry carpet cleaners come in ecologically friendly or organic versions. These eco-friendly cleaning products don’t have many of the chemicals used in commercial cleaners and are one hundred percent biodegradable.
Keep yourself, your family and your pets healthy with fresh, clean carpets. Indoor air quality will be greatly improved and at the same time your carpet will look good as new. Regular cleanings, such as vacuuming and stain removal are an important part of keeping your carpet looking and feeling great.
All of these can lead to poor air quality that affects breathing conditions, such as asthma or respiratory disease. Therefore, it is important that you keep your carpets clean and fresh, so that they do not become a household problem by trapping dirt and dust in a room. By setting aside a little time each month to properly care for your carpets and area rugs you can keep them looking fresh and beautiful long after their purchase date.
Regularly cleaning your household carpets is essential for good indoor air quality. Along with improving you and your family’s health, regularly cleaning your home’s carpets will help extend the life of the carpet. You paid good money for the carpets, so you want to keep them looking new, don’t you? Dirt and foot traffic can break down carpet fibers, leading to fraying and fading. Regular cleanings help prevent unnecessary wear and tear.
Few people have the time (or the desire) to wash an entire carpet on a weekly or even monthly basis. Therefore, it is important to tackle stains or spill right away, before they have a chance to set it. This will go a long way in keeping your carpets looking tip-top. Before you tackle any stains or spills with cleaner, you should first try to remove as much of it as possible, by blotting or scraping. Test any cleaner in an unnoticeable area first, to make sure it won’t discolor your carpet. Working from the outside to the inside, dab the cleaner on the stain. Don’t rub it, or you’ll just make the stain harder to remove. Once you have covered the stain with cleaner, blot any access with a paper towel or other absorbent material. Use a bath towel (white, so the color won’t run) to dry the carpet and refresh the fibers.
Regular vacuuming is another important step in keeping carpets fresh and clean. You should vacuum your carpets once a week and more often in areas with high foot traffic. This will help prevent dirt and particles from building up, which can deteriorate carpet fibers. Once a month you should take your crevice tool (yes, there is a purpose for this tool) and vacuum around the edges of your wall-to-wall carpeting. If you have odors from smoke or pets, you can add baking soda to the vacuum cleaner bag, which will help absorb the odors.
There are many different types of carpet cleaners available, including dry cleaners and ecologically friendly cleaners. Dry cleaners, a new alternative to traditional steam cleaning, use hot carbonation extraction that deeply cleans the carpet. Because dry cleaning a carpet uses only a fraction of the water than steam cleaning, carpets dry in just a few hours, rather than a few days. The dry cleaning method is ideal for delicate or antique area rugs. Both steam cleaners and dry carpet cleaners come in ecologically friendly or organic versions. These eco-friendly cleaning products don’t have many of the chemicals used in commercial cleaners and are one hundred percent biodegradable.
Keep yourself, your family and your pets healthy with fresh, clean carpets. Indoor air quality will be greatly improved and at the same time your carpet will look good as new. Regular cleanings, such as vacuuming and stain removal are an important part of keeping your carpet looking and feeling great.
Body Language At An Interview
It’s easy to think that if we go through all the steps when looking for a new job such as searching for ads, sending resumes with cover letters, and landing an interview, then we’re home free. Unfortunately, it’s rarely that simple. It happens often that all of these are flawless, and the applicant is a very good candidate for the job, but the interview flops. What happens? Probably something as simple as ignoring one important step: understanding the body language of the interviewer and using body language to reinforce your excellent resume.
It’s not uncommon for a person to say one thing while sending an entirely different message with his body language. If you pay close enough attention, you can tell when a person is not telling the truth. There are tell-tale signs in his movements, gestures, eye contact, and facial expressions.
Taking the time to understand the dynamics of body language may be the best weapon in your arsenal for getting the job you want. You need to know that some companies hire body language experts to help them make the best possible selections. Most interviewers have some training in body language, so it’s in your best interest to have at least a cursory understanding of it.
Facial Expressions
Is the interviewer smiling? He may be signaling that he is friendly—even that he is supportive of your application. On the other hand, be wary if the person is smiling too much—while he is talking, for example. He may be hiding something. Maybe he already knows that another candidate has been selected and he is just going through the motions with you. Smiling from time to time is a good sign, though. It’s an indication that the person is being himself and is probably not hiding anything.
The most important clues will be in the eyes. A shifty-eyed person is not to be trusted. Does the interviewer make eye contact with you? That’s a good sign that he is receptive to you. Even so, making eye contact and holding it are two different things. If the interviewer holds eye contact too long, he may be trying to put you on the defensive.
Movements
When two people are talking, and one keeps looking away, it’s a sure sign of lack of interest in what the other one is saying. Ear- or chin-scratching and playing with an ear also indicate either a lack of interest or disbelief. It would be a good time to begin to take action and try to make yourself seem more believable.
Crossed arms send a not-so-subtle signal. It indicates defense, but it also sets up a symbolic barrier. Has the interview turned combative? It might be a good time to lighten up a bit.
The face is also a good barometer of the mind. A blank face indicates either hostility or that the person is thinking about something else—perhaps what he wants to say next.
Using Body Language to Get the Job
Practice reading body language in the people around you until it becomes natural. But don’t go overboard. If you are so preoccupied with this part of the interview, you may not do well on the other parts. Even so, don’t fold your arms; control your smiling so that you are using it only in those instances where it increases confidence in you; look into the interviewer’s eyes, but do not hold the contact too long. Don’t look away from the interviewer.
In the long run, being scrupulously honest makes it easier for you to put forth the best body language because you won’t need to hide anything. Have a reality session with yourself before you go into the interview. Go in confident and real and use what you know about body language to read your interviewer.
It’s not uncommon for a person to say one thing while sending an entirely different message with his body language. If you pay close enough attention, you can tell when a person is not telling the truth. There are tell-tale signs in his movements, gestures, eye contact, and facial expressions.
Taking the time to understand the dynamics of body language may be the best weapon in your arsenal for getting the job you want. You need to know that some companies hire body language experts to help them make the best possible selections. Most interviewers have some training in body language, so it’s in your best interest to have at least a cursory understanding of it.
Facial Expressions
Is the interviewer smiling? He may be signaling that he is friendly—even that he is supportive of your application. On the other hand, be wary if the person is smiling too much—while he is talking, for example. He may be hiding something. Maybe he already knows that another candidate has been selected and he is just going through the motions with you. Smiling from time to time is a good sign, though. It’s an indication that the person is being himself and is probably not hiding anything.
The most important clues will be in the eyes. A shifty-eyed person is not to be trusted. Does the interviewer make eye contact with you? That’s a good sign that he is receptive to you. Even so, making eye contact and holding it are two different things. If the interviewer holds eye contact too long, he may be trying to put you on the defensive.
Movements
When two people are talking, and one keeps looking away, it’s a sure sign of lack of interest in what the other one is saying. Ear- or chin-scratching and playing with an ear also indicate either a lack of interest or disbelief. It would be a good time to begin to take action and try to make yourself seem more believable.
Crossed arms send a not-so-subtle signal. It indicates defense, but it also sets up a symbolic barrier. Has the interview turned combative? It might be a good time to lighten up a bit.
The face is also a good barometer of the mind. A blank face indicates either hostility or that the person is thinking about something else—perhaps what he wants to say next.
Using Body Language to Get the Job
Practice reading body language in the people around you until it becomes natural. But don’t go overboard. If you are so preoccupied with this part of the interview, you may not do well on the other parts. Even so, don’t fold your arms; control your smiling so that you are using it only in those instances where it increases confidence in you; look into the interviewer’s eyes, but do not hold the contact too long. Don’t look away from the interviewer.
In the long run, being scrupulously honest makes it easier for you to put forth the best body language because you won’t need to hide anything. Have a reality session with yourself before you go into the interview. Go in confident and real and use what you know about body language to read your interviewer.
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