Juno Lighting: 1月 2012

2012年1月23日星期一

D-Day and Small Business - a Story of Success in World War II

Earlier this month, we saw the anniversary of one of the greatest-and most terrible-days in human history: The D-Day Invasion of France. When we think of D-Day, we think of the landings at beaches called Omaha and Utah, Juno, Sword and Gold; brave U.S. Army Rangers scaling cliffs to take German Gun emplacements; fierce naval bombardment and air attacks. We think of the men on the battlefield who took those first, hard fought steps to liberate Europe from Hitler and his Nazi cohorts and it is right that we should think of them first, but we should also take a moment to reflect on the contributions made at home, especially by small businesses across the nation, that helped our soldiers and sailors in Europe and in the Pacific prevail.

The Reconstruction Finance Corporation and the Smaller War Plants Corporation

The aid small businesses received during the war years actually stems from programs that were developed in the early 1930s as a response to the Great Depression; agencies that, over time, coalesced into what we know as the Small Business Administration. The Reconstruction Finance Corporation (RFC) was created by President Herbert Hoover in 1932-and later adopted by his successor, Franklin Delano Roosevelt-to help deal with the financial crisis of the Great Depression. The RFC was a federal lending program for all businesses-large and small-that had been hurt by the Depression.

With the start of World War II, specific concern for small businesses intensified. The way things were, small business couldn't compete against large industries that could more easily increase their production-or retool entirely-to meet their wartime defense contracts. A way to alleviate this problem was found in 1942 with the creation of the Smaller War Plants Corporation (SWPC). This new entity, like its precursor, the RFC, provided loans to small businesses and entrepreneurs. However, it went further than that. The SWPC also encouraged large financial institutions to extend credit to small business and advocated small business interests to both federal procurement agencies and big businesses.

This set the stage for a resurgence of small business activity in the war effort that was a marvel of both efficiency and productivity.

Small Business Success during World War II: The Army-Navy E-Award

It was a document written in 1942 with the unassuming name of War Department Circular No. 228 that announced the creation of the new Army-Navy Production Award, which would bring the existing Navy E-Award, the Army A-Award and the Army-Navy Star Award together into a single joint award. While it was officially called the Army-Navy Production Award, it was referred to more often as the Army-Navy E-Award.

All plants, large or small, privately owned or government-run, prime contractors or subcontractors, that wholly or partially engaged in war production and construction work, were eligible for the Army-Navy Production Award. The criteria, which were strictly applied by the judges of the Army Board of Production Awards, were as follow:

Quality and quantity of production in the light of available facilities (given the greatest weight in selecting recipients).
Overcoming production obstacles.
Avoiding production stoppages.
Maintaining fair labor standards.
Training additional labor forces.
Effective management.
A good record on accidents, health sanitation, and plant protection.
Properly utilizing subcontractors.

There were nearly 87,000 plants working on war-related projects or construction during World War II. Of these, only 4,283, roughly 5% of the total met the criteria for this award. Of that number, fully 50% were small businesses that employed fewer than 500 people. The excellence and productivity of these businesses that ranged from one-man shops to small factories was undeniable and for many it was ongoing.

Plants maintaining an outstanding record of performance for six months after receiving the original Army-Navy E-Award received a Star Award, indicated by a white star on their "E" flag. Additional stars could be won by continued outstanding performance for succeeding six-month periods until the flag carried four stars, after which the interval was increased to one year.

Of the 4,283 plants that were granted the Award, eight won six Star Awards when the program ended. Four of these had retained their original Navy "E" Awards and were as follows: Cameron Iron Works, Houston, Texas; General Motors Corporation, Fisher Body Division, Die & Machine Unit, Detroit Michigan; Midvale Company, Nicetown, (Philadelphia), Pennsylvania; and Northern Ordnance, Inc., Minneapolis, Minnesota. The other four, which had converted from the Navy "E" Award to the Army-Navy "E" Award, were as follows: Arma Corporation, Brooklyn, New York; Ford Instrument Company, Inc., Buildings 1, 2, 3, and 4, Long Island City, New York; Keuffel & Esser Company, Hoboken, New Jersey; and Miehle Printing Press and Manufacturing Company, Chicago, Illinois.

Of these six-star plants, Cameron Iron Works, which made army ordnance, particularly depth-charge projectors and arbors for the navy in World War II, along with gun barrels, gun mounts, and rockets; Arma Corporation, which built fire control computers for the Navy; and the Keuffel & Esser Company, a leading manufacturer of drafting equipment, surveying instruments, slide rules and related products were certainly small concerns.

Of the remaining Awards, 763 had been granted one Star Award, 723 had been granted two Star Awards, 776 had been granted three Star Awards, 820 had been granted four Star Awards, and 206 had been granted five Star Awards. That is a total of 3,296 companies that were able to maintain the high standards of the award for at least 6 months after receiving it, a remarkable achievement, especially during the unstable wartime economic conditions that existed then.

So, What did They Win?

Primarily, these plants won recognition as being the "best of the best," back when a phrase like that actually meant something. After all, they don't call that "the greatest generation" for nothing. These happy few could use the award to market themselves and instill pride and boost morale in their people during the war and as long afterwards as they wished. According to Circular No. 228, the companies received:

A pennant for the plant and emblems for all employees in the plant at the time the award is made. These will be paid for by the Department making the award.

The pennant was swallow-tailed and had a white border and a white capital letter E within a yellow wreath of oak and laurel leaves. These were over a vertically divided blue and red background with the word ARMY on the red part and NAVY on the blue. The employee emblems had a capital letter E within a wreath of all silver oak and laurel leaves, and horizontal swallowtail wings divided in five-red, white, blue, white, red.

The Bottom Line

These companies faced a wartime economy and they did it with strength and determination. As Secretary of the Navy Frank Knox wrote to Clark S. Judd, President of the American Brass Company, April 7, 1942, "As the Secretary of the Navy, and as a fellow American, I congratulate you upon the achievement of this honor. And in so doing, let me remind you that your company's contribution, together with that of other of our patriotic countrymen, is only the beginning! This production, increased manyfold, must and will become the tide of victory!"

There was a goal-victory over the Axis powers-and businesses large and small were united in reaching that goal. The first steps toward success, pushed along by Secretary Knox's "Tide of Victory" were taken on the beaches of Normandy 64 years ago tomorrow. Tomorrow, as you think of those brave men and the tremendous economic engine that carried them to success, consider what you might have done as a business owner to help, and what you can do today.

Today, the conflict isn't with other world powers, but with big box retailers and it is a matter of economic survival for small business all over America. You are out there in the trenches every day and America's Best Companies is standing with you, just as the SWPC stood with small business during the war, ready and able to help you reach your goals while working hard every day to improve the conditions under which you operate. If you are a member, you already know about the benefits of membership. If not, check us out. You might be surprised.

Charles Cooper is the Web Editor and blogger for http://www.gowithabc.com the Web site for America's Best Companies. He is also a staff writer for America's Best: The Magazine for Small Business Owners.

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Couch Session: Top 10 Actors Under 30

It seems, lately, more and more young actors are getting their chances to show their ability on the big screen and prove their worth. More often, you're seeing them coming out and finally having their huge breakout roles as the younger generation starts making its mark on the film industry and Hollywood. In that spirit, today we choose our top 10 young actors. Those that will prove to be the most valuable to film in the coming years and prove to possibly be the next generation of stars in Hollywood.

10. Jesse Eisenberg

Age: 27

Most Notable Role: The Squid and the Whale

To me, Jesse Eisenberg has everything that makes Michael Cera good...then so much more. I first took notice of Eisenberg in comedies Adventureland and Zombieland. He plays that young, likable, awkward role so well (much like Cera). With nice comedic timing and the ability to provide a varying nuance to his "awkward young guy" roles, he manages to keep it fresh each time and brings a certain charm and appeal with him. He has all but locked down the king of lovably nerdy status. Even more so after turning in a possibly Oscar-worthy performance in The Social Network. And he manages to do this while still providing a charm and remaining endearing on screen. As a kid you just can't help but like, I see a very successful future for Eisenberg. He could arguably be the one with the most hidden potential in this list, as Eisenberg reminds me of a young Tom Hanks.

9. Freddie Highmore

Age: 18

Most Notable Role: Finding Neverland

Freddie Highmore may not have the longest resume, but he definitely has some very good performances and big roles already under his belt at such a young age. Finding Neverland proved to be a breakout for him and he turned in a good performance. For me, however, his most shining moment came in August Rush as a musical prodigy trying to find his parents. This was such a mesmerizing and endearing performance that you couldn't help but love the kid as an actor afterward. He has such a pure and innocent demeanor to him, that he instantly draws you in and elicits a sense of compassion from viewers. Again, he doesn't have the longest of resumes, however I see huge things for this kid ahead. It should be quite a treat watching him mature as an actor over the coming years.

8. Paul Dano

Age: 26

Most Notable Role: There Will Be Blood

Paul Dano impressed me from the moment I saw him in Little Miss Sunshine. Showing such an outstanding performance without even talking most of the film he epitomized the phrase the silence can be golden. From his first major movie he has been receiving awards and nominations, as he turned in a very well received performance in L.I.E. Since then, he has time and time again been nominated and has received awards. He even received a BAFTA nomination for his work in There Will Be Blood. From his ability to play a likable nerd in The Girl Next Door to turning in a magnificent and eerie performance in There Will Be Blood. Not many actors can hold their ground against legendary Daniel Day-Lewis. However, Dano has proven he definitely can...twice. I see Dano having a very fruitful career ahead of him. Turning in performances that are mature beyond his years, he has all the skill to be one of the best. He may never (hopefully) become one of those Hollywood blockbuster actors. However, I feel he could be a real staple to the independent scene. He has the ability to undoubtedly become a solid, respectable thespian really shining in his work much like Day-Lewis himself.

7. Jamie Bell

Age: 24

Most Notable Role: Billy Elliot

Jamie Bell is one of the more consistent young actors around today. There's a lot to be said for a guy who wins a BAFTA Best Actor Award in his very first movie (Billy Elliot). On top of that, he did it at the young age of 14. And he beat out Tom Hanks and Russell Crowe to do so. Since then he has remained a reliable actor, although doing mostly supporting work. However, even in this realm he continues to shine in his own way, even standing out stealing the scenes in Jumper for which Hayden Christensen was supposed to be the lead. In his short time, he has gained the respect of many big named directors. Having worked already with Peter Jackson (King Kong) and Clint Eastwood (Flags of Our Fathers). He is now set to take the lead role in Spielberg's The Adventures of Tintin. He'll be working again with Daniel Craig in Tintin. He worked with Craig previously in Defiance: another film where he turned in a solid supporting role. While not stealing the show, he did still manage to hang in there with some very fine actors and kept from being completely upstaged. If he can manage to get out the shadow of support work, I think we could see some very good things from Bell, a la Billy Elliot.

6. Shia LaBeouf

Age: 24

Most Notable Role: Transformers

Shia Labeouf is probably the one that most disappoints me in this list. However, I don't mean that as bad as it may sound (after all, he still does make my list). Shia has shown promise since the beginning. He seems to have it all to truly become a poster boy for Hollywood. Therein might lie his "flaw". He's always been able to turn in a charming performance and fits that role of down-to-earth/boy-next-door role so ideally. With great performances in both A Guide to Your Saints and The Greatest Game Ever Played, Shia has shown that he is indeed a very capable actor. Even in roles like I, Robot and Constantine he shows his knack for comedic timing, showing range with his skill. My only qualm with his career is Spielberg's desire to turn him into that Hollywood poster boy. This has meant him taking many more blockbuster/action film parts. Roles that, unfortunately, don't allow for him to really spread his wings as an actor or really challenge himself. The fear here is that he may become complacent in his craft. However, there is absolutely no doubt, he definitely has talent. And there's still huge untapped potential in him, I think. Even in "cliche/safe" roles like his Transformers/Indiana Jones/Eagle Eye type parts, Shia still manages to have a charming and endearing presence about him.

5. Ben Foster

Age: 29

Most Notable Role: Alpha Dogs

Ben Foster is one of those that can definitely bring energy and edge to the screen, maybe more so than anyone else on this list. While not the most ranged actor on the list, he can definitely bring energy to the screen as well, if not better, than anybody else on here. From Hostage to Alpha Dogs to 11:14 to 3:10 to Yuma, Ben has always turned in convincing and very adept performances as the cynical/disturbing/psychotic type. He has proven time and time again that he is a master at lighting up the screen when you need to cast a menacing character.

4. Jake Gyllenhaal

Age: 29

Most Notable Role: Brokeback Mountain

I always think of Jake Gyllenhaal as a Toby Maguire with better acting chops. Prior to his breakout, Gyllenhaal did a few odd jobs here and there. Most notably though was his first lead role in October Sky. Turning in an inspiring performance as a young man seeking to avoid the coal mines his father labored in by winning a science scholarship for his work with rockets, Jake really got his foot in the door. I think his real breakout came though with Donnie Darko. Really nailing the role as a troubled and disturbed teen, Jake's performance in Donnie Darko was really well received by critics. Likewise he turned in another nice performance, again channeling that disturbed mentality, in The Good Girl with Jennifer Aniston. Showing off a bit of range, Jake gave a nice shot at comedy with Bubble Boy. From there, it was nice watching him really grow and mature as a actor. This led to him bringing more edge to his roles. In Jarhead, he channels that disturbed mentality a bit, but brings a more mature and aggressive/manly performance, really shining in the role. Later he goes on to portray a more compassionate character, starring alongside Toby Maguire in Brothers. Ironically though, I feel Maguire turned in the better performance in Brothers, but both did a very good job. Undoubtedly though, Gyllenhaal got his biggest credit for his role in Brokeback Mountain. A film that garnered a very good critical reception for both he and Heath Ledger. Jake stands as another one of those with the ability to play your "every guy" or turn in a decent comedic performance. On top of that, he can bring a heartfelt performance or switch it up and bring a darker more disturbed element to his roles. The only downfall to his past work has been his effort to try to squeeze into that blockbuster scene with his roles in The Day After Tomorrow and Prince of Persia. This area just doesn't seem to be his strong suit, but as long as he remains with good film acting and stays away from that cliche Hollywood stuff, he could prove to have his best days still ahead of him.

3. Emile Hirsch

Age: 25

Most Notable Role: Into the Wild

Emile Hirsch always seems to bring a certain energy and edge to his characters when on screen. While seemingly a bit more under-the-radar than some of his peers, Emile may possibly be the most well-rounded and polished actors of the younger generation. Whether playing a flamboyant homosexual (Milk) or the edgy street thug type (Lords of Dogtown, Alpha Dogs) or the good-willed, boy-next-door type (The Girl Next Door, Speed Racer), Emile always delivers. Passionate and dedicated to his craft, it definitely shows through in his work. Most notably in his portrayal of McCandless in Sean Penn's Into the Wild. Turning in a performance that makes you admire and pity him all at the same time, Hirsch just has a way of commanding the viewer's attention and respect.

2. Joseph Gordon-Levitt

Age: 29

Most Notable Role: (500) Days of Summer

Joseph Gordon-Levitt has proven to be a very likable and very capable actor. Starting as just a child actor with TV shows, he impressed from the start really. Getting his real breakthrough playing a quirky teen in 3rd Rock from the Sun, Gordon-Levitt has proven over the years that he can bend well beyond that comedic range and still keep that charming and endearing quality about himself. Whether doing comedy, like 3rd Rock or 10 Things I Hate About You, or indie dramas, like (500) Days or The Lookout, Joseph definitely has built some credibility and shown his range. Now we can even add blockbuster/action flicks to that after GI Joe and his most recent work in Nolan's huge hit Inception. Joseph Gordon-Levitt is really starting to be appreciated more appropriately for his work. For this reason, with the skill to back it, I see huge things for him in future. There are even rumors floating around of him reuniting with Inception director Christopher Nolan to possibly play The Riddler in Batman 3. While maybe not my ideal choice for the role, I could definitely see a defining performance from him in the role much like his 10 Things I Hate About You co-star, Heath Ledger, did under Nolan's tutelage in The Dark Knight.

1. Ryan Gosling

Age: 29

Most Notable Role: Here I'm torn between two - Half Nelson and Lars and the Real Girl

Ryan Gosling always delivers. He seems truly dedicated to his craft. Even more, he has quite a nice range, never shying from a role that may challenge him. From playing a drug-addicted teacher in Half Nelson, to playing a socially awkward man who's loneliness leads to delusion in Lars and the Real Girl. Gosling has definitely honed his craft over the years. He seems very adept at adapting to any role. In Murder By Numbers he plays the sadistic psychotic. Years later, however, we see him playing the other side of that coin as he plays good guy, going head-to-head in a mental battle with the great Anthony Hopkins in Fracture. Gosling definitely has talent and has plenty awards and nominations to back that. He should be a valuable staple in Hollywood for years to come.

Honorable Mentions

Anton Yelchin

Age: 21; (Alpha Dogs)

Michael Cera

Age: 22; (Superbad and Juno)

Nicholas Hoult

Age: 20; (About a Boy)

Lucas Black

Age: 27; (Slingblade, Killer Diller)

Daniel Radcliffe

Age: 21; (Harry Potter)

So there you have it: my top 10 (with some honorable mentions).

What do you think? Agree with the list? Have a favorite actor that didn't get mentioned or just feel the list is all kinds of wrong? Head over to my site and join The Couch Potato Club to let me know what you think or who you feel are the best actors that will lead the younger generation and find other movie articles and all the latest news.

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2012年1月22日星期日

Headlights and Corner Lights: Available in Different Styles and Designs!

Headlights and corner lights all have their special significance while driving a car. Whether you are driving Toyota or Subaru or any other car, lights especially the headlights and the lights plays a crucial role. Earlier versions of cars including Toyota, the parts and accessories were not that technologically advanced. If we analyze the Toyota corner light, or head light all were good but not exceptional. But now the scenario has completely changed, market has lot to offer in terms of designs, patterns and technology.

With the changing styles and tastes, there is lot of change coming in the trends and scheming of the Toyota lights as well as other essential parts. Toyota corner light or any other light, the cuts and the shapes are truly amazing which enhances the whole look of the vehicle. Corner lights in any car are considered to be a great option because they are an easy way to add a little bit more to your car. These lights add a unique touch to the whole appearance of the car and would make you a proud car owner. Whenever you will be on the streets driving your car, be ensured there will be no other car with the same looks. The Toyota light has such amazing and exclusive looks which mesmerizes the car owner completely. With these corner lights, there are bright LED lights available which burns out quickly and lasts for longer time. Another great thing about these lights is that they can be easily installed using the old wiring existing in the car. This save you lot of money which would otherwise get wasted in modification. You don't need to install anything new while installing the corner lights.

Everyone wants to upgrade their old car with the latest accessories so as to make it look new and fresh. When it comes to replacing headlights, or corner lights you have a chance to upgrade with the most innovative and stylish lights using the high tech lighting source like LED. In LED lights there are such amazing and exciting features which impress every car owner. You will definitely enjoy going through the vast range of options that are available in the market. Whether you are driving a brand like Toyota or Subaru, headlights have a tremendous range. If you want to install new headlights or corner lights, you can simply search online. There are numerous dedicated retailers who are providing authentic car accessories and parts of all major brands like Toyota, Subaru and the like.

Author has 3 years experience in Internet Marketing. If you looking for the best quality of lights for your car for cheap tail lights and checkout for many luxury cars lights like Subaru Headlights etc.

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Contemporary Bathroom Lighting Variations

When houses are constructed, the rooms that are usually exciting to decorate are the living rooms, and the bedrooms. The least to catch the interest of getting decorated are the bathrooms. First and for most, the bathroom's most important characteristic is cleanliness since this is the room where all the hygienic regimes are done. They need to be clean in order for people to be able to clean themselves. But cleanliness often overrules the possibility that other than being spick and span, it should also be given some spunk or personality. Although the bathroom in the usual setting is not as spacious as the other rooms in the house, nevertheless it should still be a room that reflects the people using it.

Because of cultural influences the concept and designs of homes have evolved continuously. Contemporary bathrooms are designed to feel like a totally different world of comfort. Interior designs from Eastern cultures which is all about serenity and bringing nature into the house, is incorporated with the contemporary designs in constructing bathrooms. There are several elements adopted which adds up to the whole calming and stylish comfort effect of the bathroom. On the other hand, contemporary bathrooms with modern high-tech concepts are also popular nowadays, especially with all the technology integrated in bathroom fixtures making the comfort room an automatic user-friendly room as well.

Other than the paint and accessories, another essential factor that leads to achieving beautiful bathrooms are contemporary lighting. Light can affect the mood as well as appearance of a person. There are a wide variety of lights that cater to the theme used in the bathroom.

These contemporary lights may come in illuminations that create the warm cozy and pampering effect. Some bathrooms of today have built-in spa-like equipment therefore the appropriate relaxing type of contemporary? lighting, is needed to achieve the full effect. There are also contemporary lighting options which include sconces.

Mostly, this type of contemporary bathroom lighting are bright and are used around mirrors to give better lighting, so that people can fix their make up easily or see their reflections clearly. Hi-tech bathrooms may require a different type of lighting. Usually the contemporary lighting used in hi-tech baths can be automatic, and versatile. Several types of lights can be installed in hi-tech contemporary lighting for your bathroom. They can switch from warm lighting to bright lights, depending on the purpose on what is needed by the one using the bathroom.

The availability of designing elements like the contemporary lighting simply shows that people are now paying more attention to their bathrooms, and that bathrooms are very easy to beautify.

Elija has been writing articles for nearly 2 years. Come visit his latest website that helps people find the best bathroom lighting fixtures and some great bathroom lighting contemporary ideas that can be used in any bathroom to help make the lighting a great feature.

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Consider High-Tech Gadgets When You Remodel Your Bathroom

Every year designers and inventors are coming up with new gadgets for improving the quality of your bathroom experience. You decide which ones you can't live without during your bathroom renovations.

Television Mirror - Having a TV in the bathroom is increasingly popular, but where do you put it? How about in the mirror? When the unit is activated, it creates an LCD window in the mirror displaying your favorite show. The rest of the mirror will only reflect your image, so you can brush your teeth while watching your favorite talk show.

Toilets - New gadgets include built-in MP3 players integrated into the controls, seats that track your weight, toilets that act as bidets, gadgets that measure blood pressure and the sugar in urine, and toilets that flush and close themselves automatically. Some toilet paper dispensers also have MP3 docks.

Soap Holders - How can you improve on one of the lowest-tech accessories in the bathroom? New holders use magnetism to suspend the soap bar over the sink - so there's no more gloppy residue at the bottom of the soap dish. Another option is liquid soap in disposable bags that you can suspend by a clip.

Tub Controls - New devices allow you to program the exact water depth and temperature for your bath and will keep adding water to maintain the desired temperature. These systems can remember the preferences of up to three people.

Shower Lights - If you're looking for ways to jazz up your shower during your bathroom remodeling project, consider lights. Some gadgets will alert you to the water temperature with red and blue lights. Other shower stalls will allow you to program ceiling panels to glow in your favorite colors - or use pre-installed sets of light patterns that can simulate bright sunshine, rain, or a cloudy day.

Digital Showers - A built-in computer will remember custom settings for each family member. Imagine stepping into the shower and having the water temperature, shower height, and water pattern just as you like it! Some showers computers also allow you to synchronize light, sound, water, and steam, for a completely personalized showering experience.

Underwater Lights - Want a rainbow of color in your bathtub? Done! The waterproof underwater light show is also great for enlivening a pool or hot tub during a party.

Joaquin Erazo, Jr. is the senior vice president of marketing and public relations at Case Design/Remodeling, Inc. Find a local bath remodeler near you!

Learn more about bath remodeling on our website.

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2012年1月21日星期六

Disaster Movie - Movie Review

They don't make them like they used to, a phrase that gets thrown around a lot however in this case is very true. Gone are the days of classic film parodies such as airplane or even scary movie, now we are forced to watch garbage like 'meet the Spartans, superhero movie, and epic movie' and many more features that shouldn't see the light of day. Disaster movie like predicted is a huge disaster.

Disaster Movie this time follows and tries to parody the movie Cloverfield and adds a lot of non funny pop culture jokes along the way. Will, Amy and Calvin played by Matt Lanter, Vanessa Minnillo, and Gary 'G Thang' Johnson are at the centre of the story, these three friends embark across the city to save Will's love Lisa played by Kim Kardashian who is trapped in a history museum.

Along the way these 3 team up with parody versions of the movie Juno and Disney's Enchanted's princess, other movies to get the parody treatment are Iron man, Batman, The incredible Hulk and Indiana Jones also celebrities such as Hannah Montana, Jessica Simpson and Dr Phil get the parody treatment.

This film l is a complete nightmare and I think the main problem with this movie is not only are the jokes un funny but the writers take so long in trying to explain the jokes, for example a joke that should only last 1 minute to execute takes 5 in this feature, however this could be to do with the target audience being a bunch of 5 year old kids, simply because no one else should find any of this rubbish funny.

Disaster movie is easily one of the worst films made, there for I would highly urge you not to watch this movie.

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Colleges Assess Campus Security and Disaster Coordination After Virginia Tech Shootings

Preventing Seung-Hui Cho from opening fire at two different locations on the Virginia Tech campus in Blacksburg, Va. - taking 32 lives before his own - would have been difficult. And it would have been just as difficult on most college campuses for a few reasons.

"Because of the open nature of institutions of higher education and because we are dealing with the human psychology," said Adam Garcia, director of University Police Services at the University of Nevada, Reno. "In less than a decade, we have gone from shooting situations in K-12 schools to terrorism to an adult lone wolf, who are extremely difficult to identify in advance."

When it comes to violent crime, college campuses have long been shrouded in a false sense of security. That mindset, however, must change to mitigate the effects of another tragedy - or prevent one altogether.

Tragedies like Columbine and Virginia Tech have pushed campuses toward evaluating their security practices and communication procedures, and the aftermath provides insight as to what took place. The outcome will undoubtedly lead to new measures that make college campuses safer.

Garcia said an event like the one that took place at Virginia Tech would overwhelm just about any community and law enforcement organization. But new issues came to light, and communities should acknowledge that college campuses aren't immune to crime and should be prepared.

"For too long, universities and colleges were seen as safe havens from crime," Garcia said. "Communities must face the reality that acts of violence and crime can and do occur anywhere."

Before Chaos Ensues

Prevention is difficult, but to gain some semblance of control over the situation, communication is important. As was evident at Virginia Tech, it's not easy, and significant planning is involved.

"The challenge of communicating with everybody on campus, as well as people outside of campus who have a relationship to what's going on, is a big challenge, and is really one of the more crucial elements to emergency management," said Guy Miasnik, president and CEO of AtHoc, a firm that has helped secure facilities at the Department of Defense (DoD) for years.

Virginia Tech officials were questioned after the shootings as to why the campus wasn't shut down during the two-hour lull between shootings, and why everyone on campus wasn't notified after the first round of shootings in which two people were killed in a dorm room.

"When people don't know what's happening, that's what creates chaos and creates frustration, and potentially creates a tremendous amount of danger," Miasnik said.

Virginia Tech's emergency communications system included e-mail, as opposed to text messaging, which could have been helpful since students are accustomed to texting and used it to communicate amongst themselves during the shootings.

Sources said using multiple means of communications during such an event is critical. "Assuming a single channel will work when you need it isn't sufficient," Miasnik said.

As it does after these types of events, the University of Nevada is taking a new look at its readiness after the Virginia Tech disaster.

"We are evaluating our current state of readiness from a law enforcement perspective, as well as a community perspective," Garcia said. "Redundant lines of communication to faculty, staff and students are being explored."

Communications methods being examined include cell phones and landline message "dumps," which are mass communications sent to people who sign up to receive emergency alerts; text messages; Web site improvements; message boards; campus LCD monitors; and reverse 911, said Garcia. The school is also considering establishing an emergency critical management group composed of five to seven high-level university officials.

Multiple Means of Communicating

Some lessons learned from years of securing DoD facilities include quickly making decisions and disseminating information, having multiple lines of communication, and conveying a consistent message over all of them from a centralized source.

Multiple communications methods must be used to get in touch with necessary people because some methods may not work, and some people may not be reached by certain channels, Miasnik said.

"So by having multiple channels, you really have a much better chance of reaching the people you need," he said. "The second important lesson is being able to centralize the management of the emergency communication, because one consequence of having three or four or five different channels of communication might be that you need different systems to manage each one of them. And that's not good, because every minute really counts, and you want to have a system that can really communicate and leverage all of these channels of communication at once with a single activation."

In addition to single activation, single management of the system is critical so a consistent message is sent through each channel.

"For example, if you communicate over four or five different channels, but the message you are sending over each is not exactly the same, you may be doing more damage than good," Miasnik said. "You may be confusing people about what to do."

This type of communication must be second nature; the procedures must be defined for each type of event before it happens, and then practiced, Miasnik said.

"You have to figure out, if this happens, this is what I do: I communicate with the following people," he said. "What are the messages? Who are we communicating with? Who is allowed to communicate? All of that has to be predefined as part of emergency procedures."

Moving Forward

After the Virginia Tech tragedy, colleges across the nation examined what technology and procedures could be implemented to help officials confront such an event.

In Illinois, Gov. Rod Blagojevich announced college campus security initiatives that would create a campus security task force and distribute more than 300 Motorola radios on three college campuses. The radios are expected to be in place by the fall 2007 semester, and campus security personnel will be trained to use them.

California State University, Fresno, is meeting with vendors to discuss the viability of a cell phone message system that would text volunteers. University officials are studying procedures and policies at Virginia Tech and visiting the campus to learn from the tragedy.

The University of California at Berkeley recently introduced a system called People Locator, a Web-based application that lets students, faculty and staff securely log in, report their locations and leave messages during an emergency.

Prior to the Virginia Tech incident, Hampton University in Virginia implemented a prototype security system called Response Information Folder System (RIFS), developed by Alion. RIFS allows emergency responders and school officials to quickly access 3-D and 2-D models, panoramic images and glean other facts about the facility. The system has GIS capability that helps integrate facts about an event with a geographic context.

RIFS has no emergency warning component, but possible expansion includes emergency alerting via text messaging and e-mail, according to Teresa Walker, assistant provost for technology and director of the Academic Technology Mall at Hampton University.

During the spring, Hampton also implemented an Internet filtering and monitoring application by 8e6 Technologies called Threat Analysis Reporter. "It allows us to pull categories that we want to monitor for inappropriate use on the Internet or block altogether," Walker said. "We are able to immediately gather data on any individual who visits sites deemed as inappropriate or attempts to access sites that we have blocked."

Such categories include pornography, hate and discrimination, extremist and terrorist sites, and weapons and arms sites, she said, adding that students are aware of this and understand it's university policy.

As for upgrading campus security, Miasnik advises campuses to look around and see what others are doing, and to take advantage of existing infrastructure.

"Colleges have networks. They've invested tremendous amounts of money in networks pretty much everywhere on campus," he said. "There are wired networks; wireless networks; everybody has a laptop; there are lab kiosks. Leverage what you have in place. For a relatively small investment, you can turn every laptop, every kiosk or even a phone into an alerting device. The investment is usually somewhere in the range of 20 to 30 bucks per student per year.

"My No. 1 recommendation is to learn from others," Miasnik continued. "You can't reinvent the wheel here. There are organizations that have been dealing with this for decades."

Requirements for Managing a Campus Crisis

A proper mindset for the community. For too long, universities and colleges were seen as safe havens from crime. Communities must face the reality that acts of violence and crime can, and do, occur anywhere.

Adequate training for law enforcement officers. After Columbine and the 1997 North Hollywood shootings involving two bank robbers, law enforcement began to change tactics from responding, containing the situation and waiting for a tactical squad, to responding and confronting the threat without waiting for a tactical response. Institutional law enforcement must be prepared with the proper training in an "active shooter" situation.

Adequate and proper equipment and funding for campus law enforcement officers are imperative for their self-sufficiency. Most university and college law enforcement agencies now need to be properly equipped. It is no longer sensible to have to wait for other agencies to respond. The single minutes it takes for additional help to arrive could mean the difference between life and death for many.

Proper notification of those exhibiting behaviors out of the norm, while balancing civil rights of students and others.

Source: Adam Garcia; director of University Police Services; University of Nevada, Reno

Under Watchful Eye

Liberty Public Schools in Kansas City, Mo., have had surveillance cameras for years that focused on athletic fields, school buildings, parking lots and hallways and sometimes helped identify vandals and trespassers.

Now the cameras are linked to the local police department instead of the district technology staff, and that connection could mean more immediate action on the part of police should there be a shooting or other major event.

Video from the cameras is piped into the police station's dispatch office and can be broadcast to a laptop. Police can watch an array of cameras simultaneously or a single full-screen camera and can view virtually every common area of the school buildings.

Source: Kansas City Star

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2012年1月20日星期五

Flashlight and Lighting Gadgets

When it comes to lighting, this does not seem to be an area that most people tend to give a lot of thought to. Whether it is installing a lighting system for their home, or using a flashlight device, most people are rather content with the first arbitrary model item that comes to hand, and don't really give much consideration to their options.

Studies have shown that if people were to turn off their lights when not using them, and/or switch their current light bulbs to energy saving light bulbs then the could save up to 20% on their annual electricity bill. Energy saving light bulbs are truly remarkable examples of efficiency, they produce the exact same amount of light, but require 80% less of the energy, which has huge implications for cost, as well the effect on the environment. The advantages for the climate chiefly derive from the huge reduction in carbon dioxide that is produced and emitted by light bulbs as they heat up.

Your typical light bulb tends to have a lifespan of 5,000 hours in total; this figure is 8,000 for energy saving light bulbs. I cannot emphasise this enough, when you consider that 80% less of energy is required for an energy saving light bulb and given that it lasts almost double the time as an ordinary light bulb, changing light bulbs does not seem quite a trivial priority anymore.

People are often put off by the higher cost of an energy saving light bulb, whilst saving the world and preventing damage to the climate is all very well, most people are concerned with their budget, and practical day-to-day issues. Energy saving light bulbs is a worthy investment, that will provide massive long-term savings, and of course, as they become more prevalent in the market, the cost of production can be steadily reduced.

The innovative design of the bulbs is truly remarkable; the latest design to hit the market is solar powered lamps. Now that may sound a contradiction in terms, surely lights are used when it is dark, and if it is solar powered, it needs ready access to the sun?

Absolutely! Researchers have designed such lamps to mimic a plant, whilst a plant will gather the sun's rays in the biological process of photosynthesis and then use that as food during the course of the night, so does the solar powered lamp, gather up the sun's rays, and utilises an LED light to emit the light. Simply leave the lamp close to a window so that it has ready access to the sun, and this will allow the solar cell to store the energy.

These lamps are also waterproof, meaning that they can be safely kept outside for maximum sun exposure and have an on/off switch that will toggle not only the LED lighting (thereby conserving the energy of the solar cell) but also the solar cell itself. A truly remarkable engineering design, and don't worry, with a frosted glass design with such lamps, your lamp wont be spoiled by ugly, clunky batteries and the like.

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Get Into the Right Shape With Butt Cellulite Reduction Treatment Using High Tech Light

Are you tired of the fact that you can flaunt a bikini and enjoy a sun bath by the seaside? If the lumps are really troubling you, Butt Cellulite Treatment Using High Tech Light is a great method to consider.

Why Using High Tech Light?

If you want to be confident, you have to be confident of yourself and if you are extremely overweight, it'll be difficult for you to manage. Butt Cellulite Reduction Treatment Using High Tech Light is a method that lets you get rid of those saggy bags and you won't be called a 'fat butt' for sure after you undergo this therapy. Oodles of weight or uneven skin fat distribution will be visible from any distance and you've got to do something to get things back to normal.

Women need Butt Cellulite Reduction Treatment Using High Tech Light more than men

As per a few of the authentic researches, women are more prone to the development of butt cellulite as compared to men. High tech ultrasound technique, radio waves and even laser treatments are the methods that are being used for the treatment of butt cellulite.

How does it work?

Radio frequency is also used for butt cellulite Removal treatment this non surgical treatment. With post-operative garments and few pre-operative requirements radio frequency help to reduce built-up butt cellulite fat. Butt cellulite reduction treatment is a technique which involves heating of fat cells with a focused light causing cellular membrane to break. The process is performed with a temperature of 5 degrees. The procedure causes sub dermal metabolism which support the blood cells. It is a lymphatic action in which fats are eliminated and stimulation of collagen formation takes place to very high levels. It genuinely reduces the cellulite if not complete reduction. The butt reduction treatment makes your skin smoother and improved figure of your body in thigh and butt areas.

Another treatment involves non-surgical feature like laser. This procedure successfully removes cellulite and help to regain the desired body shape. Laser energy is concentrated on the fat accumulated regions beneath the skin. This improved laser procedure causes skin tightening but does not clear out the entire butt cellulite reduction. The butt cellulite cells absorb the laser energy until cell membranes break. The laser works on to eliminate the built-up fats and fibrous cellulite fats which cause dimples. Even the stubborn fats cells from butt respond effectively to this light energy treatment.

Ultrasound Technique

Butt cellulite reduction by ultrasound is an indispensable and non invasive tool. It has been used for diagnosing fetus in the womb. Later it became a tool to break kidney stones without any surgery. After the great success of ultrasound technology people have inclined themselves to cure their butt cellulite built-up through ultrasound. It is very effective and innovative technique. Inspite being a sophisticated technology the concept for the treatment is very simple. Light energy is focused in the areas beneath the skin which burn the fat cells accompanying mechanical massage which assists lymphatic action and draining of released fat.

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2012年1月19日星期四

Grammy Award Winner - Nelly Furtado

A Grammy award winning Portuguese Canadian singer and song writer Nelly Furtado tasted her first success in 2000 with her debut album Whoa, Nelly!. The album featured the single "I'm like a bird" which brought her the Grammy Award. After a short break in her career while she had a baby girl 'Nevis', Furtado returned to fame with the release of 'Loose' in 2006. The album included the hit singles "promiscuous", "Maneater", "Say It Right", and "All Good Things (Come to an End)". Her second album in 2003 "Folklore" did not gain a lot of popularity while in 2007 Nelly released her first Spanish Language album.

Furtado listened heavily to mainstream R&B, hip hop, alternate rock, New Wave, alternative hip hop, trip hop and world music since her teenage. She has been influenced by stars like Jeff Buckley, Caetano Veloso, Amalia Rodrigues, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Cornershop and many others. Furtado's multicultural music has also been inspired by the city of her current residence, Toronto, which is aptly the most multicultural city in the world. She grew up in Canada and experienced the wide diversity of Toronto's cultural diversity. This exposure helped Nelly to experiment with new genres of music.

Furtado's comment about the varied taste on a Rolling Stone issue in 2006 says-

"I always know there's a new genre left to discover. For me, it's like a metaphor for life. I feel like if you can get down with any style of music, you can get down with any style of person. So it's fun for me--I get to expose my fans to different vibes and they, in turn, open their minds too. I'm always undergoing mind-opening."

Furtado has an insatiable desire for wide- ranging music and curiosity in different cultures. She is known for experimenting with various sounds, instruments, languages, genres and vocal styles. Nelly holds a record of selling over 12 million albums till date. Her songs enjoy the highest rankings in the U.S. Billboard 200 (U.S.), Canada (CAN), Mexico (MEX), United Kingdom (UK) and at many other countries. The biggest worlds music markets have sold million copies of her albums including Germany (GER), Netherlands (NET), Ireland (IRE), Switzerland (SWI), Poland (POL) and Australia (AUS).

Furtado's regularly released singles have enjoyed highest chart positions in the United World Chart (UWC), U.S. Billboard Hot 100 (U.S. Hot 100), Pop 100 (U.S. Pop 100), HOT Dance Club Play (U.S. Dance) and many other successful music markets throughout the world.

Her acting career started in middle school while she participated in school plays. She appeared as Ava Brandt, as a master- thief and victim of domestic abuse on the episodes of "Some Buried Bones" on CSI: NY. Her two songs "Maneater" and "All Good Things (Come to an End)" were also featured in the episode.

Nelly has a whole bunch of Awards and nominations under her belt. She is a winner of Radio Music Awards in the category 'Most Requested Song', "Turn off the Light". In the Billboard Music Video Awards "she won awards for the "Best Pop New Artist Clip". IN the Juno Awards her list of winnings include categories from " Best New Solo Artist", "Best Single", "Best Songwriter", "Best Pop Album" and various others. Furtado has a lond list of songs that have been included in the chart topping lists.

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Ever Wondered How Western and Vedic Astroloy Differ?

Vedic and western astrology systems both predict future but the way they do it is poles apart. True there are some common factors, both divide the zodiac into twelve equal parts and both fix the position of planets to predict future.

But there the similarity ends.

I have been asked this question in every class and every workshop/seminar I conducted. Its is a lengthy answer but I will try to limit it to two pages. This is merely a comparison and is not an attempt to glorify one at the cost of the other.

The earth spins on its axis like a top and there is a slight wobble to it. This wobble makes a circle in space and the axis of earth moves over it. This is an extremely slow movement and the equinoctial point moves just one degree in 71.6 years. It takes roughly 25800 years to complete the circle. Because of this movement of earth, the stars above earth seem to move slowly although they are fixed in space. When extended to the Zodiac signs - which are nothing but star clusters the problem becomes acute. A similar thing happens to the planets too.

The equinoctial point is currently at about 23 degrees. That means that we have moved 23 degrees away from our true perspective of the twelve signs. In order to fix their positions correctly we should be deducting 23 degrees from the position of each planets as well as the Sun. Let us view this through an example. Let us assume that you want to measure your weight and you have a weighing scale to do it. Unfortunately for you the machine instead of showing zero shows 10 pounds. You stand on it and take your weight and it comes out to be 110 pounds. What is your real weight? Is it 110 pounds as shown by the machine or 110 -10 = 100 pounds. Obviously latter. We deducted the error from the result.

Vedic astrology deducts this equinoctial error of 23 degrees from the calculated position of each planet before starting predictions. Western astrology does not do it, either for the ascendant or for the planets.

Vedic Astrology is primarily based on the movement of Moon around the zodiac. Moon is the closest heavenly body to us and influences us most. Moon takes roughly 2 ? days to traverse each sign and finishes its round of zodiac in 28 days. In Vedic astrology the 360 degrees of zodiac are divided into 27 segments of 13 degrees 20 minutes each which are sub divided into 9 segments of 3 degrees and 20 minutes. The zodiac thus has 108 divisions and each sign has nine of these. In Vedic Astrology a planet placed at 3 degrees in a sign gives one result while a little further in the sign his results will change. There is an appreciable change in the behavior of a planet placed in the beginning, the midpoint and the end of the same sign. Western astrology does not differentiate on the basis of planetary degree.

Western astrology predicts general characteristics of a person on the basis of the Sun sign, Vedic Astrology uses the position of Moon in a Nakshatra (Constellation). For example lets take the case of Aries. It spans 30 days from March 21 to April 20. In thirty days Sun will still be in the same sign and so the characteristics of a person will not change whether he is born on the March 20 or April 30. Moon on the other hand would have traversed two Nakshatra (Constellation) and will be in the beginning of the third in the same sign. Her results for each Nakshatra are different so she gives a lot more accurate idea of the emotional and physical characteristics of an individual.

Moon orbits the earth and earth moves around Sun. The points where the orbit of Moon intersects with the zodiac are called Rahu and Ketu.(north and the south nodes of western astrology). These are points in space calculated mathematically but their affect on humanity is so profound that these have been given the status of a planet and treated as such. They have their planetary periods and mantras for pacification. Western astrology does not have this concept.

Vedic Astrology recognizes the effects of Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn Rahu and Ketu only. It makes very accurate predictions on the basis of these nine planets. It accepts Uranus, Neptune and Pluto as planets but does not give any credence to their effects on human beings. Western astrology uses outer planets and other heavenly bodies like Ceres, Pallas Athens, Juno, Vesta and Chiron in addition to seven planets from Sun to Saturn. It thus uses a total of 15 planets/sub planets.

Vedic astrology allots a planetary period to each planet and these periods run successively after one another. In addition to this, the system also gives sub periods up to the fifth level and brings the prediction to the level of hours in a day.

Vedic astrology says that merely predicting future is not enough. There should be remedial measures to control the bad results shown in a horoscope. There is a huge body of literature of Sanskrit Mantras, Yajna (fire ceremony) and rituals which are used for just this purpose. There is a close relation between planets and their representative herbs, a similar connection exist with minerals also. This gives us the system of Ayurved which is a holistic method of healing. It treats the root cause of a disease rather than just the symptoms. Herbs and minerals are used to fortify the planet the weakness of which is causing disease.

Planetary transit in Vedic Astrology is a very detailed system. Each planet gives different results as it passes through the twelve zodiac signs. By correlating these results with the Planetary period running at a given time perfect prediction are possible. Vedic Astrology has as many as sixteen recognized systems for calculating planetary period, and each throws a different light on future.

The system of supplemental charts is another unique feature of Vedic Astrology. For investigating different aspects of life different supplemental charts are used. For example, to quantify the professional prospects in a chart not only is the tenth house analyzed, the chart constructed by dividing a sign in ten segments is also considered. Similarly for questions related to children Saptamansh charts is used. There are a total of sixteen such charts and these deal with every aspect of human life.

Vedic Astrology places great importance on the ascendant or Lagna. This is because the delineation of the chart is totally dependent upon this factor. The nine planets gain positive or negative character based purely on the ascendant. It is perfectly possible to have Jupiter and Venus perform very negative roles and Saturn and Mars to do exactly opposite. Western astrology does not place much importance on the ascendant.

The concept of Yog is another vital difference between the two systems. Two planets can enter into a relationship and give results which are totally different from their individual results. There is synergy between planetary effects. The reverse is also true.

This is just a thumbnail sketch of the differences between Vedic and western systems. The complete list will make this article unduly long and boring. I hope I have not crossed that line already.

Rajiv Sethi

amvedin@yahoo.com

http://indian-vedicastrology.com

Phone +91-9899589211

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2012年1月18日星期三

Cheap & Useful - Trail Tech Vapor Computer

I always thought it would be cool to have a computer on one of my dirt bikes, but never really thought I would actually get one. Well, I ended up getting a Trail Tech Vapor recently because it's required for my bike to be street legal. So I might as well take advantage of this little piece of technology while I can. To my surprise, it shows everything a car or street motorcycle dash would show, and more!

I instantly fell in love with this thing as soon as I started the bike. It boots up quickly with a back-lighted screen showing a tachometer that tells the RPM of the engine, a speedometer, the ambient temperature, a clock, as well as a trip odometer. It didn't take long for me to start pressing buttons and find out what else this dirt bike computer could do. It was like I went back in time to when I got my first Nintendo game boy and couldn't put it down....
Installation:

Putting the actual computer on is the easy part. It's the routing and hooking up the wires that is a little more difficult. Don't worry though, Trail Tech Vapor includes detailed instructions that will make installing the Vapor computer easy. Hooking up the temperature and speed sensors are a little time consuming because you have to cut out a section of the radiator hose and calibrate both of them, but I won't lecture you on how-to because Trail Tech's instructions will explain everything.

Features:

Where do I start?... There isn't a lot of features that Trail Tech left out.
Tachometer:

-It's a digital graph that shows the current RPM
-Also has tach in a different mode showing the actual number of RPMs
-Will show up to 20,000 RPM
-Two programmable shift lights (yellow & red)
Speedometer:

-Shows the current speed
-Records the maximum trip speed
-Can alternate between MPH or KMH
Odometer:

-Displays a trip odometer that can be reset after every ride
-Has a permanent odometer that shows the cumulative mileage
-Can alternate between Miles & Kilometers
Temperature:

-Shows the ambient air temperature
-Displays engine temperature on different mode
-Two programmable temperature warning lights (yellow & red)
-Displays degrees in either Fahrenheit or Celsius
Clock:

-Shows the Real time displayed in 12/24 hours
-Has built-in stopwatch
-Shows the current ride time
-Shows total ride time
-Has permanent hour meter
Ease-of-Use:

There's only a few buttons to push, "mode, right arrow, and left arrow," so navigating the computer and all of its features is simple. Click mode once to change the display, click it again to see another set of values, then once more to go back to the original screen. The Vapor and all of its features are easy enough for anyone to read.
Durability:

It would be pretty tough to destroy this computer, as it can be tucked in below or on the handlebars. Even if you crash, the mount securely holds it in place so it won't get damaged. About the only thing that I can think of that will break it is if your helmet hits it from a harsh landing. As far as the battery life goes, it will last about year full year.
Is It Worth It?

Are you a trail rider? If yes, it's definitely worth it for how cheap it is. It's perfect if you go on longer trips, ride on the road, and trail ride often. If you're looking to record your mileage of rides, like looking at all of the numbers, or want to keep a strict maintenance schedule for your dirt bike or motorcycle then there is nothing else that will make it easier than this. Good luck, and ride hard!

-Tom Stark

Here is the official article on MotocrossHideout.com: Trail Tech Vapor Computer Review

FMF Fatty Pipe Review

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Belfast Attractions - Grand Opera House

A little bit of history

Located on Victoria Street, beside the Europa Hotel, in Belfast city centre, the Grand Opera House has had a long and illustrious history. Designed by renowned architect Frank Matcham, it was originally opened in December 1895. The venue was renamed the Palace of Varieities in 1904, but its name was reverted to the original in 1909.

In the years after World War I, the Grand Opera House played host to a number of popular variety acts such as Sarah Bernhardt, Gracie Fields, Laurence Olivier and the National Theatre Company. During the Second World War, the Opera House amazingly escaped major bombing, and as one of the celebrations at the end of the war in 1945, the US President Eisenhower and General Montgomery of the British War Council both attended gala performances here.

In 1949 the Opera House was sold to the Rank Organisation, a British Entertainment organisation, and it was reopened as a cinema. This led to many lean years for the theatre, due to the popularity of TV and of course due to "The Troubles".

In 1969, the Grand Opera House was damaged through paramilitary bombing campaigns, due to its proximity to the Europa Hotel. In fact in 1972 it was facing a bleak future of closure and demolition. However, it was given a 'listed building' status in 1976 and became one of the first properties in Belfast to be listed as being of historical and architectural significance. Control of the Opera House was entrusted to the Arts Council of Northern Ireland in 1976 and it was secured a bright future.

A significant restoration project was carried out on the venue in 1980, and it's worth noting that this project was probably the catalyst to the redevelopment of Belfast city centre. Since then it has played host to many of the ballet and singing stars of the time. In 1991 and again in 1993, the Opera House was unfortunately bombed, but nevertheless it continued as normal and played host to musicals, plays, pantomimes and live music.

1994 saw the administration of the Grand Opera House handed to the Grand Opera House Trust. 2006 saw major re-development and refurbishments initiated. Improvements to the theatre included increased stage space, accommodation for performing acts, better customer facilties and acess for disabled guests. The Baby Grand was the name of a smaller events centre created under the redevelopment project, and Luciano's café bar and restaurant.

Not everyone was pleased with the exterior apperance of the Opera House, some felt that it took away from the original design, but the improved patron facilties have been warmly welcomed. The Grand Opera House re-opened with a Gala Event in October 2006.

Location, how to get here and facilities

The Grand Opera House is located beside the Europa Hotel and the city's main bus and train station, Europa Station, on Great Victoria Street. From here it's only about a 2 minute walk to the Grand Opera House.

If you're driving there's easy access from both the M1 and M2 motorways. From the M1 exit at the Boucher Road Junction. Continue along Donegall Road, and then take either Sandy Row or Shaftesbury Square. From the M2, go onto the Westlink and take the Divis Street exit. Take a right at the traffic lights onto College Avenue, and continue straight ahead onto Great Victoria Street.

Just behind the Europa Hotel, is a multi-storey car park. There's also some limited street parking available on Glengall Street, close to the venue.

Luciano's Restaurant, Café and Bar, cater for guests and party groups to the theatre. You can arrange for pre-event group meals and snacks through prior contact with the Opera House.

Bars are located on most levels of the Grand Opera House. However it is recommended that drinks are pre-ordered before show interval breaks. Post show drinks can be enjoyed in Luciano's.

There are no ATM Machines at the venue, though all major credit and debit cards are accepted at the premises. There is an ATM machine at the Europa Station. Confectionery and merchandise can be purchased at a confectionery stand located in the Theatre Foyer. Show merchandise can be purchased at locations throughout the building during shows.

There are excellent facilities for disabled people, and for those who are visually impaired.

Major events at the Grand Opera House...

Some major international artists, musicals, plays and pantomimes have been held at the venue. Music legends such as Van Morrison, Christy Moore, Oscar Winner from the Film "Once" Glen Hansard and Martha Wainwright have in the past performed here, and will perform here later in 2008 as well. Popular musicals such as Jungle Book, West Side Story and High School Musical are to be performed here later this year. Plays such as Juno and the Paycock, and Christmas Events such as "Cinderella on Ice" will take place also later this year.

Mairead Foley writes for the Ireland travel and accommodation website http://www.GoIreland.com

Visit GoIreland for all you need to know before visiting Belfast, like what to see and where to go. You can also browse our list of Belfast hotels and find yourself a great hotel deal!

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2012年1月17日星期二

Atlanta Green Home Lights The Way

Energy efficient homes that go easy on the environment are turning heads in Georgia with their low-maintenance appeal, cost efficiency and natural good looks. With Georgia Tech's recent success in the 2007 Solar Decathlon and world-class community projects like Atlantic Station, Metro Atlanta is well on its way to being a model of eco-building in the Southeast.

Georgia's green power was most recently demonstrated by Georgia Tech at the 2007 Solar Decathlon. The innovative contest, sponsored by the US department of energy, is a green building competition with an emphasis on solar energy. Twenty teams from universities all over the world were handed the task of building the most attractive and energy-efficient solar-powered home they could imagine.

Over the five day judging period, the Decathlon Homes had to demonstrate the ability to use nothing but solar energy to power a washer dryer, oven, TV, computer and generate hot water. The homes also had to be architecturally sound, marketable and they had to look good.

Though it was their first year to participate in the contest, the Georgia Tech team won 6th place for their innovative light-house, a completely off-the-grid solar powered home. First place went to a team from Darmstadt Tech in Germany. Though the Georgia Tech team didn't take home first place this year, the house is part of the significant contribution that that Atlanta's architects and engineers are making to what we know about building smart.

"Many of the advances that are demonstrated in this house will come to the mainstream," said associate professor Russell Gentry of the Georgia Tech house, "they will have to come to the mainstream if we're going to save the energy that we promised to."

The innovations in the Georgia Tech house set a new standard for energy efficiency and eco- friendliness for Atlanta homes. Atlanta already has a number of model solar projects like the EcoManor, the Southern Living Idea House, and the Brookhaven Zero Energy Home.

"35% of the energy consumed in the US is consumed in buildings. It's important for us to develop technologies that save that energy," says Gentry. "Everything we do here is about making buildings more energy efficient and smarter."

The Georgia Tech Light House is steel and wood construction with a modern open floor plan, hardwood flooring, and a semi-transparent solar roof that subtly lets lights into every room in the house while it insulates and generates power. Designed to be easy to build, expandable and accessible, the plans accommodate from one to three bedrooms and up to two baths. The cost of the prototype is $280K.

For more information on Green Homes in Atlanta contact Rob Muller, Metro Atlanta Real Estate agent. http://www.relyonrob.com

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Butt Cellulite Reduction Treatment Using High Tech Light

The lumps and bumps and "shadowing" of butt cellulite keeps many gals off the beach, when you could be enjoying the sunlight surf and swimming with attractive smooth skin and a more confident body image. Butt cellulite treatment has received a performance boost from the introduction of high tech ultrasound, radio frequency and laser body fat treatments. "Light energy" based cellulite treatment is literally coming into the light-of-day...and a lot of women and men are welcoming the technology.

Evolving High Tech Butt Cellulite Therapy. By the time your formerly smooth skin, flat tummy and saddle-bag-free small butt began its inexorable march towards your middle-years' pear body shape, you knew something was happening...and the news was not good. Seemingly unstoppable body fat deposits had you ear-marked for a fat butt as well as one showcasing the unmistakable butt cellulite dimpling and unevenness anyone might easily spot even five yards off the line of scrimmage.

Expanding Ultrasound's Role As A Butt Cellulite Therapy. Previously a well known diagnostic tool, ultrasound proved indispensable in non invasive body health exams, such as monitoring a fetus within a momma's womb. Later, scientists turned up the dial, making a warrior out of ultrasound where it could now break up kidney stones without invasive surgery.

No surprise that the millions of women (nearly 90% of the female population experience thigh and butt cellulite build-up) and men are now looking to ultrasound as a serious non invasive cellulite therapy worth exploring. Although the technology is sophisticated, the ultrasound fat removal treatment is based on a simple concept: focus light energy carefully below the skin surface, let the fat cells heat up just until the cellular membrane breaks, mechanically massage the butt cellulite area in order to accelerate your body's natural lymphatic action to drain and eliminate the released fat.

Result? Over time and with multiple treatments, your butt cellulite and area fat will diminish, you'll create smoother skin and you may even lose inches!

Radio Frequency Butt Cellulite Removal. Non invasive, non surgical radio frequency body fat treatments target body fat and help you to eliminate butt cellulite build-up with post-operative compression garments and with little pre-operative requirements.

How does radio frequency do its business? RF body shaping involves heating up your butt fat cells (which includes the culprit cellulite dimple-makers as well) about 5 degrees. Result? Your sub dermal metabolism supporting blood supply, lymphatic action for pushing fat around as well as collagen formation are all stimulated several levels above 'normal'. Meaning? Butt cellulite cells "give up", cell membranes or fibrous connective bands producing the mottled dimpling effect are broken, captured fat is released for carrying off by your lymphatic system. You gradually lose cellulite dimple-maker cells, creating smoother skin, with less thigh and butt fat present for an improved female body shape.

Laser Butt Cellulite Removal Techniques. Again, modified light-energy laser treatments provide a new cellulite treatment tool that features low impact non surgical benefits that directly assist you in your body shaping goals.

The exact nature of how laser promotes skin tightening and butt cellulite reduction is not entirely clear until more science becomes published. However, like other light-energy treatments, laser offers your doctor a technique to deliver carefully-modulated energy directly into the body fat regions lying below your skin. What happens next is that your butt cellulite fat cells absorb energy until the cell membrane denatures. The key to laser is that some measurable amount of built-up fat plus the more fibrous dimple-maker cellulite fat cells are removed.

Stubborn butt cellulite fat cells have revealed a vulnerable side with the newly emerging light-energy based treatments. Find out more about treatment plans, costs and patient financing options, health risks, plus selecting the best doctor and clinic by exploring more information in the resource links below.

Cellulite Ultrasound: http://www.beauty2morrow.com/body/cellulite-ultrasound.htm

Laser Cellulite Reduction: http://www.beauty2morrow.com/body/cellulite-laser.htm

Author Robin Derry is publisher for http://www.beauty2morrow.com/, a specialty information site that gives solutions to body image and body shaping needs

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An Insight Into Some of the High Tech Gadgets

Tech gadgets have become a rage in today's world and science has been making such rapid strides that new gadgets are being invented daily. There are so many gadgets available in the market today that you really get confused about what to choose. Let us take a peep into the latest gadgets that have come into the market.

One of the most modern inventions is the Portable Freezer. This is a battery operated device and works with the aid of LED lights which are fixed on the top most part of the device which supplies the necessary lighting and helps to cool the device. It is one of the newest inventions and looks really trendy.

Another new gadget that has come out is the dog umbrella leash. This is a completely new device which has been launched especially for pet dogs to be protected from the rain while going for walks during the rainy season. You just need to fix this attachment onto your dog's collar which is made of transparent PVC. It is quite reasonably priced and really a worth while investment for your pet.

The cigarette lighter camera is another new high tech gadget that has come out today. This is specially meant for detectives and police inspectors who can make use of this gadget to click photos of crimes without even letting other people know that you are clicking away. This is because people will think that it is just a cigarette lighter and never guess that this is a camera.

External USB drives have also become more high tech, savvy and trendy these days. They have become very speedy, more compact and have greater storage capacities.

These are just some of the high tech gadgets that are in vogue today. There are numerous other devices that are available in the market for you to choose according to your needs. Just clicking online will get you informed of all the latest gadgets that have been launched.

This is the age of hi tech gadgets. No body is complete without them and we rely so much on these tech gadgets for our day to day activities.

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