Saturday, January 31, 2009

Board Games

A board game is any type of game that is played on a marked surface (board). In addition to the board, there are usually pieces that are used to move across the board in various ways, depending on the game being played. There are literally thousands of board games. Some are simple and considered family entertainment, while others are intricate and involve a plan or strategy in order to win.

Although board games have been played in most cultures since the earliest civilizations, they became widely popular during the early 20th century with the rise of the middle class who had time to spend and money to burn. Board games can be described in two basic categories luck and strategy. Most childrens games like Candy Land and Chutes and Ladders are based on luck. Games like Monopoly and Risk are based on both luck and strategy. For example, in Monopoly you wish for luck when you shake the dice to land on a good piece of property for sale. Then you must think strategically to decide whether or not it is worth purchasing or investing more money in. Chess, on the other hand, is a game of pure strategy.

There is also a certain amount of diplomacy involved in many board games. Games involving three or more players can involve diplomacy whereby players convince other players to team up with them, make deals, etc.

Many board games are now being replaced with computer games. For example, the option to play Scrabble online and compete with other players is a popular example. There are hundreds of sites that offer hundreds of board games for young and old alike. As a matter of fact, the success of online computer games has led to a serious decline in board game sales.

Board Games provides detailed information on Board Games, Online Board Games, Kid Board Games, Chess Board Games and more. Board Games is affiliated with Game Design And Development.

By Kent Pinkerton

Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Why I Love Strategy Games

A strategy game is one in which the skills of the play and his decision making combine to influence the outcome. Usually, strategy games come in the form of video, board or computer games. Most games involve some strategy of some sort, however, those classified as strategy games tend exact the decision making skills of the player to determine more than half of the final scores. The word strategy echoes from the military meaning military planning and tactics to achieve results. This is in contrast to games in which players can rely to a large extent on probability to win.

Strategy games vary widely and can be found with different themes. Some of the genres include abstract strategy, war games, real time tactics or strategy games, simulation, building of cities and God games. In war games for instance, there is usually an extensive simulation of past military battles involving great leaders such as Alexander the Great, some Roman Emperors and even world wars I and . The player is usually required to take on the role of an important military person such as a general or commander or even an ordinary soldier who literally has an impossible mission to save the day. Traditionally, strategy games are played with physical miniatures or on a board. With the advent of the internet, however, one can find many online strategy games to play of for those who prefer, they can download strategy games.

In addition, there are also real time strategy games and real time tactics strategy games. The former apply to certain computer games, such as NukeZone, Blizzards Warcraft and Starcraft, where the player has to make quick decisions and take fast action as the games state change constantly. The latter however, concentrates more on control and operational aspects of warfare. Examples include the Close Combat and Total War series.

Simulation strategy games attempt or use real life situations as themes. Thus the player's decisions and actions result in similar consequences as it would be in real life. Abstract strategy games, on the other hand do not necessarily use real life themes. The player must understand the logic to win the game. This includes games such as Go, Chess, Checkers. Many free online strategy games can be played on the internet as well.

God strategy games are those in which the player assumes the role of God with everything else subject to him. The challenge is to find ways and means to overcome such unbridled power. Games in this genre include Populous, Black&White and God's Playing Field which is a free online strategy game.

Economic strategy games usually simulate real life business and require the player to win in a business or economic situation. Some examples are Monopoly, Transport Tycoon, Supreme Ruler 2010, Capitalism and Railroad Tycoon. City building strategy games also allow the player to build and manage a city. There are arguments as to whether games such SimCity and City Building Games series employ the player's analytical skills at all. Nevertheless, they are considered as strategy games. There are also the turn based strategy games (TBS) which forces the user to think about the game first before committing to play. They are different from the real time counterparts in that sense.

As with many other things, the advent of the internet has changed the face of gaming. Most people especially kids and teens prefer to play games online, whether it is strategy or puzzle or from any other category. To meet these demands, there are a number of quality websites offering quality free online strategy games. There is no need to download anything, nor is there any need for plug-ins. Literally, playing online multiplayer strategy games is just a mouse click away.

As time rolls on, we are likely to see many more free strategy games available for game lovers to choose from. Certainly this is a good sign.


About the Author:

By Jake Jenkins, Free Games Fan
Play Free Online Strategy Games, Free Action Games at Strategy Games


Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Real Estate Agent Courses

Online real estate courses are offered to potential and licensed real estate agents, real estate brokers, real estate appraisers and real estate investors. The online schools offer a wide range of services to their students, which include helping the students pass the licensing exams for each field. Different courses are offered to those who wish to become agents, brokers, appraisers and investors as each has its own specific areas of study.

Courses for Real Estate Agents

The major areas of study that the courses for real estate agents include License Laws, Real Estate Contracts and Law, Escrow, Finance, and the Principles and Practices of Real Estate Math. These courses are often delivered through various software, CDs and virtual tutorials that the online schools offer their students. These courses help the students have access to the most up to date state laws with regard to real estate in the areas where they wish to practice their profession and the most up to date techniques and skills that can help them help their future clients. The students also take exams on these modules as to assess their understanding of the different areas of their study.

Review for licensing exams and license renewal

In addition to the modules that these courses offer, one important service that these online schools provide their students are the reviews that the students can take to help them prepare for the State Real Estate Exams that they will take to become accredited agents. These reviews are often given to the students in the form of practice exams and supplementary reading that can help the student prepare for the exam.

Apart from offering their services to people who wish to become agents, courses are also offered to licensed real estate agents who need to renew their real estate agent licenses. Online real estate courses for agents provide high-quality, effective, and convenient classes to future realty agents, that not only give them the most up to date information on real estate but also the best preparation for the State Real Estate Exams.

Real Estate Courses provides detailed information on Online Real Estate Courses, Real Estate Agent Courses, Real Estate Appraisal Courses, Real Estate Broker Courses and more. Real Estate Courses is affiliated with Phoenix Real Estate Schools.

Monday, January 26, 2009

West Austin Apartments

West Austin is a charming neighborhood in Austin, an economically developed business center in central Texas. Set in the backdrop of rivers and hills, it is the perfect place for customary and urban living.

West Austin offers the finest options for residence with a good choice of apartments suitable for all budgets. West Austin apartments are available both for rent and for sale, on a weekly, monthly, or yearly basis. A wide range of apartments including furnished, unfurnished, condos, town homes, and duplexes are available. Apartments with single and double rooms are suitable for students and small families. Larger units with three to four bedrooms are also available. There are contemporary and modern apartments designed to meet varied lifestyles. Corporate, senior, and student housing are also available.

All West Austin apartments have a fully equipped kitchen and a spacious living room. Luxury apartments come with fireplaces, built-in computer desks, and hardwood floors. Amenities include abundant closet space, Berber carpets/cut-pile Berber, built-in wine racks, detached garages, digital cable, state-of-the-art phone systems providing high-speed Internet access, linen and pantry storage, gourmet kitchens with designer custom cabinets, luxurious baths with oval garden tubs, private alarm systems, washer/dryer connections, study niches with phone, cable and electric outlets, and private fenced backyards.

Community amenities feature twenty-four-hour emergency maintenance, clubhouses, bar and entertainment centers, coffee, juice, and bagel bar, controlled access gates, drive-up mail kiosks, resort style pools with Jacuzzis, misters and cabanas, on-site lifestyle coordinators, business centers with free Internet access, copiers, faxes and color printers, large parking areas, fitness centers, and clubs. Many West Austin apartments also boast a picturesque view of lush woods and hilltops. West Austin also provides services in healthcare and education.

Numerous real estate agents and organizations specialize in the sale and rent of apartments in West Austin. Online agents also help you find an apartment in this locality. Some of them offer a service promise, relocation options, and a rent with equity program.

Austin Apartments provides detailed information on Austin Apartment Associations, Austin Apartment Guides, Austin Apartment Locators, Austin Apartment Stores and more. Austin Apartments is affiliated with North Dallas Apartments.

Sunday, January 25, 2009

Closing Costs Explained for the Buyer and Seller

The fees associated with buying and selling a home documented in a sales contract are called closing costs. They are split between the buyer and the seller and often involve negotiation. Buyers apply for a loan and receive a good faith estimate that may not include all of the closing costs.

Buyer's closing costs include: the actual down payment, loan fees, points, appreciation and credit report, along with any pre-paid interest, inspection fees, appraisal, mortgage insurance, title insurance, and documentary stamps or note. Escrow fees, homeowners insurance, and legal fees can be included. These fees vary depending on the lender and the details of the sales agreement.

It is advisable to carefully review the estimated costs presented by the lender. If there are any questions before the actual closing, have the loan or title company officer clarify anything before making a final decision. As Americans borrow more than $110 billion a year to buy homes, these added costs and charges can add significantly to the purchase price of the home.

Sellers' costs as part of the closing include: the broker's commission, tax transfers, documentary stamp on deeds, and insurance and property taxes. Before the sale closes, the escrow officer will verify with the lender to ensure sure the existing balance for the loan has been paid. If the proceeds from the loan do not completely pay for the seller will need to pay for the remaining balance. Any additional deductions for the sale of the home (including buyer credits and concessions) are subtracted before the seller receives their share of the sale proceeds.

Negotiations for deductions can occur with minor or major costs. Property taxes are often prorated. They are usually paid at the end of the tax year. If the buyer has questions regarding some structural aspect of the home, including the plumbing, windows or electrical work, the buyer may request the owner to credit for the repairs. At this stage, even the price of the house could even become negotiable. A buyer could offer to pay the full asking price or more for a house in exchange for the owner covering the closing costs. The seller may offer to ?carry paper? or finance a portion of the sale for the buyer to ensure that the sale goes through. There is really no restriction for what can be covered by the buyer or seller, just as long as both parties involved are happy with the eventual outcome and the terms of the deal is written down.

It is a good idea to carefully review the good faith estimate well in advance of your closing date. You'll be better prepared to protect yourself from padded, inflated or abusive costs. If questions are raised during the earliest stage of escrow, you'll have ample opportunity to speak with the preparer about your concerns and have them explained.

Make sure that you are aware of basic closing terms. Loan origination fees are fees that cover the lender's processing fees for the loan, a percentage of the loan that varies from lender to lender. Points. A point is a one time charge for a lower interest rate. A point usually costs one percent of the amount loaned. A buyer can save money over the life of the loan by paying down one or more of these points, and the points may be tax-deductible.

Property Appraisal: A property appraisal is done for the lender to determine fair market value of the home. Inspection fees: are charged for homes under construction. A lender requires routine inspection for construction and release of funds as work progresses and concludes. Buyers are also responsible for prepaid interest that covers the mortgage from the first day of the loan until the due date of the first monthly payment. Hazard and flood insurance are paid a year in advance to cover the home and lender from natural disaster: fire, loss, windstorm and flooding.

Miscellaneous mortgage fees can include more inspections and an assumption costs. Inspection fees are generally handled before the closing date and can include an inspection of the home, radon tests, and pest or other specialized inspection fees. Assumption costs are for transferring the owner's mortgage into the hands of the new buyer. This is where reviewing closing costs are important because they can vary from state to state. Charges for home warranties are common. An attorney can handle a title search, apply for title insurance for you and a lender and complete the closing in some states. In other states specialty companies handle title work and closings are completed elsewhere. As this process can be cumbersome, it is important that you work with your REALTOR?, title officer and/or legal professional to handle ensure that all aspects of the closing are handled with the utmost of care.

Current technology has allowed the closing process to become easier, quicker. There are a plethora of fees a lender may charge depending on your location and the technology employed in the process. Notary and record fees would apply to have documents notarized and filed with public records. Overnight fees would result to send or receive documents and transfer fees for wiring incoming and outgoing funds.

Regardless of where and when you are buying a home you're closing costs will take a significant jump before they're finalized. The more educated you are about the process the better you'll be able to discern between valid or inflated costs. You'll be better prepared for that possibility. The awareness you've gained from familiarizing yourself with the process and establishing a relationship with your lending officer, REALTOR?, and closing agent will better prepare you for a predictable rise in closing costs and enough knowledge to point out inflated costs or at least ask questions to determine exactly where you stand.

Alex Peterson writes for ZipRealty. ZipRealty provides home buyers and sellers with an innovative real estate solution. By using the efficiencies of the Internet, ZipRealty has streamlined the real estate process and is able to pass significant savings on to home buyers and sellers.

Saturday, January 24, 2009

First Time Home Buyer Tips

Buying your first home can be a frightening and daunting experience, but it doesn't have to be. In fact, it can actually be enjoyable, if you take the necessary steps to make sure you're ready to go through with the transaction. Here are some ideas on how to make your first home buying experience more enjoyable and less traumatic.

First, it's important to know just how much home you can afford. That will help you avoid the heartache of finding a home you love, only to discover that it's beyond your means. Find out what price range you need to be shopping in BEFORE you start looking!

One of the best ways to do that is to call or visit your local lenders and find out what types of loans are available and how much you can qualify for. There are many different types of loans available, and if this will be your first home, you'll have even more choices, because there are a number of programs specially designed to help people make their first home purchase. Talking with loan officers will also give you a chance to find out what other fees are involved in getting a loan. That way, you won't receive any unpleasant surprises when it comes to finalizing your mortgage transaction.

Find a real estate agent you're comfortable with, but also make sure they're knowledgeable about financing, real estate prices, and sales procedures in your area. They should also be able to demonstrate some success in negotiating sales. That's not to say there aren't good people in the field who are also brand new, but you'll want someone who can hold your hand throughout the process.

Don't sign an agreement to work with just one agent. If you agree to pay a commission to an agent, it obligates you to do that, even if you find a house yourself that's being sold by an owner. Keep your options open!

Create a checklist of the things you want most in your new home. It will help you stay focused on the things that are important to you and will serve as a reminder to look for those things in every home you visit. That way, you won't get overwhelmed by seeing many homes or get swept away by a home that's dramatic but doesn't contain the elements you're looking for.

Once you've found a home you like well enough to make an offer on, have a home inspection done by a reliable person. Especially if you're looking at a For Sale by Owner (FSBO) home, you may not want to agree to use the home inspector they suggest. Ask around and find one of your own.

Finally, don't let anyone pressure you into signing either the purchase papers or the loan documents without examining them closely. You have the right to read and to understand what you're signing, so take all the time you need. If you feel as if you need legal advice, ask to be able to show the papers to your attorney.

Buying a home doesn't have to be an exercise in frustration and terror. If you pay attention to details, gather the necessary information, and stay focused, it can be one of the most exciting things you'll ever do.

Copyright © 2006 Jeanette J. Fisher

Free ebook: Credit Tips for Mortgage Financing at http://worryfreecredit.com

Jeanette Fisher teaches six steps to buying your first home. Free First Home Buyer Info

Friday, January 23, 2009

A Shocking Report on Low Back Pain Problem in Children

Why low back pain is increasing amongst kids.

Low back pain, neck pain in children is increasing in an alarming rate and back pain is no more a problem of old and obese people. Degenerative disc disease is actually a form of arthritis and has identified to be a common cause of lower back and leg pain in children Even 50 years before back and neck pain was a rare pediatric condition.

Recent statistics shows that low back pain is responsible for approximately 23% of most school absenteeism and the number becomes 29% once we include sports injury.

Parents need to address the pain management of their kids properly because childhood low back pain triggered depression and other psychological problems.

Prime Causes of Low Back Pain in Children?

Poor posture, misalignment of vertebrae, trauma, emotional stress and sports injuries, have the same affect on children and adult.

Today's children carry backpacks that weigh 10-20% of their body weight and carrying of this extra weight normally triggers the neck and back pain.

A research was conducted in England involving children between the ages of 11 and 14 to find out the relation between low back pain and stress amongst the kids and teenagers. Research report shows that revealed that children with higher levels of psychological and social challenges are much more likely to experience low back pain than their peers.

Should You Consult Chiropractic For Back Pain

If you consult an Orthopedic Care unit, possible common treatments will be Cortisone Shots, Anti-inflammatory Drugs or back surgery. All of these has side affects and requires recovery time.

One of the most popular treatments for back pain is Chiropractic Care. The chiropractic approach consists of physical manipulations of bones and joints in an attempt to line things back up and it?s recommended typically 2-3 times per week.

Chiropractic treatment is an excellent way to enjoy natural relief of back pain. A professional chiropractic doctor can address subluxation (where vertebrae become misaligned) with great success. A proper attention to subluxation also helps to address frequent earaches, headaches, infant colic, and neck pain and carpel tunnel syndrome

If your child is suffering back pain due to vertebral misalignment, chiropractor will painlessly adjust the vertebral column without potentially harmful drugs or invasive surgery. Chiropractor will recommend appropriate exercises to relieve low back pain.

Arindam, Author of this article is suffering from lower back pain for last 5 years. I practiced simple yoga regularly and attended chiropractic session thrice a week for last 1 year. I learnt the chiropractor techniques heal with your hands and ecome-a-chiropractor to manage my own back pain effectively. I recommend you should take your kid to a professional chiropractor for a better alternative treatment. You can drop by http://www.find-a-chiropractor.info to know more on pain management


Thursday, January 22, 2009

Resell a Miami Real Estate Home in Just a Few Steps

As soon as prices go up in Miami, more and more investors and even home owners decide on selling their property for a fortune so they could get yet another quality home from one of Miami?s real estates. But this is never easy. Often times, sellers want to receive lots of cash for their property, but not all of them would do anything to make sure they would get what they planned for. The market today especially in Miami real estate business, is so aggressive that?s why it is so important to have the place in proper order and in a competitive status.

Realtors classify second houses into a stated house and a on-staged house. The main difference between the two classifications in Miami is the price the buyer is willing to shell out for the property.

If the property is sold ?as is,? then the seller can name a price that maybe preferred. However, if the buyer does not see the cleanliness then money to be paid is also trimmed down from the original asking price. This is true for every blemish they see. That is why it is important to prepare the home and really clean the house to get the full price.

Better begin with cleaning the exterior part of the house. The outside of the house often gives the first impression and believe it or not, there are more than a hundred things that fail to be noticed. Keep all the tools and other equipment in the outside, especially the toys and the sweeping materials in the sidewalk organized by putting them in a storage box or the toolkits.

Show the beauty of the Miami house and take away the trashcans out of the visible areas during the tour. Make sure that the porch light are working bright for the house lighting plays a major role in making a person feel special or uneasy in a house and don?t hesitate to buy new door mats if it?s really needed.

Check the doors and the glass windows. They should be spotless. The frames should also be cleaned including the switches of lights and outlet covers. Put all the dirt and garbage away but never damp the clutter inside the closets.

Also polish the kitchen counters and see to it that there are not clutters on top as well. Hide the other appliances in an organized way especially the papers and other stuff not really meant for the kitchen.

Most importantly, make sure that all doors and windows especially the sliding ones are working smoothly. Vacuum the carpet and remove the visible stains. Replace all dirty curtains to show the view of Miami. In taking these simple steps, it is safe to assume that reselling a Miami home in one of Miami?s Real Estates will be next to a hundred per cent. Keep in mind that the property to be sold must look like it was really cared for and will need the same care from the new homeowners.

Cleo Capili

http://www.miamirealestateinc.com

Florida Real Estate Expert Cleo Capili specializes providing assistance to buyers in Florida. She guides families who would like to invest and purchase their dream home in the exciting warm paradise of the Real Estates in Florida. Her skills in negotiating and inventory to make sure that sales and experience bring out the best for each purchase sets her apart from the different common realtors in her location.

Cleo have good background in marketing, business, real estate financing, and advertising to give clients the best options when buying a Florida property. No matter what your needs are, Cleo could share her professional and interpersonal skills for outstanding results on each of your property purchase in Florida.

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Cars of the future compared


Automobilemag.com lists 5 of the cars that can be seen in the market in 2010 and beyond. These are the BMW Z8, BMW X1, BMW LC5 CLS Fighter, Audi 1, and the Honda FCX.


BMW will revive the Z8 roadster in its 2010 model. This 650Ci convertible will range from $90,000-to-$125,000. It will be powered by a 400-plus-hp turbo version of BMW's 4.4-liter V-8 mated to a new dual-clutch gearbox. Other engines--larger and smaller--may find their way under the hood as well.


The pint size BMW X1 will be added to the X5, the just-freshened X3, and a two-door X6 due in 2008. The compact SUV market might seem an unlikely place for a premium German marque, but BMW won't be alone. Audi will be there with the Volkswagen Tiguan-derived Q3, as will Mercedes-Benz with its GLK.


These three share common characteristics. Aside from the fact that they all have well-to-do female customers, they also would want to make the car seats higher, to surround their vehicles with lots of active and passive safety equipment, and to own a premium product with a versatile interior. They are less interested in size and high-performance engines. They are also value-focused, which is why the X1 will be priced about the same as a loaded Toyota RAV4.


At roughly 170 inches long, the X1 will combine the footprint of the 1-series and packaging similar to that of the X3. The large wheels and the suspension come from the X3. The underbody, the drivetrain, and the electronics will be taken from the 1-series. The X1's more carlike DNA is reflected in its target weight of 3400 pounds, significantly lighter than the X3. The X1 is principally a four-seater, but since the rear chairs slide and fold, an optional fifth seat could be integrated. BMW may offer a variety of opening and see-through roof treatments.


Indeed, BMW is readying a stretched version of the next 6-series, which would feature four doors and four seats under a coupe like roof.
To its credit, the BMW team is taking a somewhat different approach from Mercedes-Benz. The LC5 CLS Fighter will be seen without B-pillars. Instead, the structural integrity of the body will be supported by overlapping doors (the rear ones always shut first and open last) plus reinforced sills and side panels. All seats feature integrated belts and side air bags. The oval-shaped lateral aperture and the connected door skins are supposed to help spread out the energy in the event of a side impact. The engine lineup consists of four units: a 300-hp, 3.0-liter turbocharged six; a 400-hp, 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8; an M version powered by a 550-hp, 5.5-liter V-10; and a 3.0-liter twin-turbo six-cylinder diesel.


Transmission offerings are to include a conventional six-speed manual and two automatics, where one is a dual-clutch design. Both automatics will feature seven speeds and optional paddle-shift operation. The gear selector is a joystick with two parallel shift modes: flick it to the left, and you're in manual; flick it to the right, and you're in automatic. Pushing a button on top of the lever engages park. Car enthusiasts will also see new electro hydraulic brakes, active steering, and wheels ranging in size from eighteen to twenty inches. It is not yet clear whether the new arrival will be part of the 6-series family or whether BMW would rather launch it as a 7-series coupe. Either way, the car is expected to reach showrooms in 2011, shortly after the next 6-series coupe/ convertible--and, coincidentally, around the same time as the second-generation Mercedes-Benz CLS, the car that started it all.


Audi will be launching its A1 minicompact. It will be smaller-than-A3 entry that emphasizes performance over economy. Unlike the discontinued European-market A2, the A1 will be a two-door hatch. An S1 version would likely use a 240-hp, 2.0-liter turbo; a less-potent turbo four would power the base car.


Finally, Honda's latest take on fuel cells is the FCX concept. Although its ultra-cab-forward body looks dramatically long, low, and wide, at 186 inches (15.5 feet) in overall length, the FCX is actually shorter than the Acura RL. It features a compact, Honda-developed fuel-cell stack in the middle of the car with two hydrogen tanks in the rear. The stack is much smaller than what is now technologically feasible, but Honda says that it shows our dream.


The novel four-wheel-drive system has one front 80-kW electric motor with two in-wheels, 25-kw motors at the rear. The cabin has a mixture of traditional Japanese materials, such as a wood floor, plus the latest gizmos. The dashboard rises up toward the driver as speed rises, which is supposedly to hold the driver's attention.


If you want to know their air filters, the site on K&N Filters can help you.

About the Author

Hannah Racey is a 35 year old native of Chicago, Ill. She has been a car afficionado since she can remember. She now works for an automotive company based in Detroit, Mi. as a consultant.

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

The Popular Sport Of Airsoft Gaming

High intensity, high adrenaline, non-stop energy all leading into head-to-head competition! All this while keeping yourself and your team focused on the single objective at hand, ?take no prisoners?. Airsoft Gaming, very similar to Paintball gaming, is becoming widespread and at the same time a worldwide sport. There are many forms, regulations and simulations that the Airsoft enthusiast can participate in but nothing compares to the realistic features and experiences involved in Airsoft Gaming.

Airsoft Gaming took its roots in the East and has been moving to the West for the better part of 20 years. While slowly becoming popular in the US, one can find dedicated Airsoft Gamers from California to Florida and everywhere in between. This sport has become a great event for big corporations to offer to their employees as a fun adventure day, and is even found at small events like birthday parties hosting only ten people. Men and women, old and young alike, can participate in a great heart racing, strategy-involving, team-building activity.

Many Airsoft enthusiasts participate in standard Skirmish games, Mil-Sim games, or impressive Mock Battle games. Skirmish?s are usually run like the following: two teams trying to kill off the other team in any variation ranging from capture the flag, siege fights, or last-man standing. While Mil-Sim?s look like the following: role-playing variations and focus on strategy and tactic rather than speed. Finally, Mock Battle?s look like the following: they are structured to simulate a famous battle. Whether the battle mimics something from WWII or something from the Gulf War, it can look like the real thing. Because Airsoft guns are replicas, the participants can put regulations on the Airsoft gun and equipment correlating with the specific time period.

So what does it cost? Well, depending on where you decide to go you can pay anywhere from $15-20 for gun and equipment rentals, plus an extra $5-10 for ammo, and, finally, a small fee of $20-30 to use the property. These are not set prices for any one Airsoft Gaming location just estimates. There are typically discounts for group?s or special occasions. All in all it is a great way for bonding, team building, or just having fun. Whatever worries you have you can blow off your steam while unloading a magazine of 6mm plastic BB?s firing up to 600-900 rounds-per-minute in a safe, non-lethal environment.

It is important to note that with Airsoft Gaming come necessary precautions; all Airsoft Gaming locations will have specific safety requirements. Some general safety precautions and highly recommended safety equipment are for eye and face protection. Wearing some form of heavy clothing is advisable for the rest of your body. Some enthusiasts even use a scarf or handkerchief to protect their necks, while others just go commando wearing only shorts and a T-shirt. It depends on the player, but always remember eye protection is imperative no matter where you are playing.

Finally, I don?t endorse using public property while participating in your Airsoft Gaming experience, although I have heard of teams playing in abandoned buildings, golf courses, and fields. If one wants to participate in this sport in a public place, keep in mind that a group of people flashing 1:1 scale replicas of real firearms could potentially get themselves into trouble. Always remember to make sure that your orange tip on your Airsoft gun is visible and easily seen by spectators. To those who choose to participate in a private closed field, enjoy your Airsoft Gaming and continue to support the fastest growing sport in America.


About the Author:

PJ Ace is a writer and administrator for http://FlyntAirsoftPaintball.com, a site that specializes in airsoft and paintball.


Monday, January 19, 2009

Scottsdale Real Estate Schools

Phoenix has been experiencing a rapidly growing real estate market and the prices of properties here have soared in recent months. Investors are flocking to Phoenix to view listings, shortlist properties, negotiate prices and buy condos and luxury waterfront property. Golfers want to retire in Phoenix. Baby boomers are booking properties for spending their retirement days. This flurry of activity has motivated a number of people to seek careers as real estate brokers and agents. They are granted their licenses to work in the profession from various real estate schools.

One of the leading real estate schools in Phoenix, Scottsdale Real Estate School offers real estate courses online and on CD-ROM. It's never been so convenient to pass your real estate exams and achieve a license. The real estate courses offered include: real estate license, sales associate and broker?s pre-license, post license continuing education, and prep courses for students to prepare for real estate exams and state exams. They offer fully accredited real estate courses that meet the license qualification and continuing education requirements for real estate professionals in Phoenix. These courses can be done from anywhere around the world. Scottsdale Real Estate School is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They believe in serving the student around the clock to better meet their needs.

Scottsdale Real Estate School has introduced the most convenient way available to fulfill the professional license educational requirement. Their CD-ROM and online real estate classes allows the aspirant to begin courses at any time. Upon passing the online exams, they receive a certificate of completion and full course credits. Additionally they offer a new and exciting way to obtain the required real estate education credits. They noticed that many students simply don't have the time or desire to attend a class. For them, an online training course has been created.

There are a few criterions that need to be fulfilled before applying for a real estate broker license. It is required for the applicant to be at least 18 years of age when applying for a real estate license. Additionally he may not have had a real estate license denied within one year, or revoked within two years immediately before applying. Scottsdale Real Estate School helps the applicants with the license procedure and makes it as easy as it can be.

Real Estate Schools provides detailed information on Real Estate Schools, Online Real Estate Schools, Phoenix Real Estate Schools, Scottsdale Real Estate Schools and more. Real Estate Schools is affiliated with Real Estate Agent Courses.

Sunday, January 18, 2009

Negotiating a Real Estate Contract

Negotiating the purchase or sale of a home can be fraught with struggles, ill-will and nastiness. coming the three deal-killers is easy if you remember one thing. Keep your emotions out of real estate contract negotiations. It will reward you handsomely. Plus, if you exit successfully from a ugly negotiation you still have to endure several weeks or months with the other side. On top of that, you might need to go back to the buyer and seller and ask for a closing date extension or inspection repairs. If wear out the other side early, they'll be much more unlikely to agree to anything you ask for simply because they don't like you or your attitude.

There are three outcome variables when a real estate contract is drafted by the buyer and presented to the seller.

The seller will accept the terms=contract.

The seller will change the terms=counteroffer.

The seller will reject the terms=the end, start over or walk away.

When the parties to a real estate contract accept the terms, it is known as acceptance. Most states require all real estate contracts to be in writing. And, they require that all offers of price or other terms be in writing. You might want to throw out a number out to a seller in a conversation, but it is not enforceable and is considered by real estate professionals as undesirable.

The counteroffer is the most common scenario in real estate contracts. Many buyers and sellers like the back and fourth of counteroffers and negotiations. But, be forewarned, some buyers and sellers have a low threshold to extended counteroffering. My rule of thumb is once you have gone back and fourth five times, you start to bog down the process. Each side should develop a strategy for negotiating before the real estate contract is formally presented.

In some situations a real estate contract is rejected before acceptance, by either side at any time. Some reasons for rejections are: incompatible closing dates or other terms, price, or another real estate contract is presented and it is more attractive to the seller. I am of the opinion that it is better for a contract to be rejected during negotiations than fall-through after acceptance. Like many things in life, accepted contracts are easier to get into, than out of.

Low-ball offers. Much more common in 2006 and 2007 than in previous years. Real estate market pendulums have swung in the buyers favor. That being said, some of the low-ball offers that buyers recently have attempted to negotiate were twenty-percent under list. Sellers of appropriately priced homes did not even respond. The rule of thumb is to not go below ten-percent of list for an opening price offer. If you can sweeten other terms of a contract to counter the low price, it could help keep you in good graces with the seller.

Counteroffers are like volleyball. Each time an counteroffer is given back to the other side, you will start to know where they want to go on price and terms. If sellers or buyers don't move off their original price much, they are showing signs of digging in their heals, don't expect much movement, each round. Early signs of rigidity in counteroffers tell me to buckle your seatbelt another notch, because the other side is not flexible.

The take-it-or-leave-it offer. Sometimes negotiations get near an impasse. The other side might call your bluff and say this is it, take-it-or-leave it. If you developed a strategy as I mentioned earlier, you will know what to do with the ultimatum. And, I hate to say it, the folks who do these ultimatums also like to try and come back after you've met the ultimatum and ask for another bump. No, no, and no.

Highest and best offer. Sometimes sellers or their agents get restless in negotiations and want to call your bluff. They'll say give us your highest and best offer. This is a tricky situation, sometimes if your not in love with a home, you might withdraw the offer and not tip your hand. Especially if you might revisit it later after pursuing other homes.

Bidding Wars. Going into bidding wars is not for the faint of heart. You will probably over-pay for the home, but if you truly want it, it's okay. You might though have to come up with some extra cash for the down-payment if it doesn't appraise out, at an inflated price. One of the main problems in bidding wars is not knowing how many offers are on the table. Real estate license laws usually favor the listing agent 's need for confidentially with their client, the seller. I've also seen all the offers drop out except for one, and you end up negotiating against yourself. I tell my clients to not participate in a multiple offer situation. They become competitive and emotional, I prefer to stay on the sidelines until the dust settles. Since you haven't tipped your hand, if you are invited to submit your contract after the multiple peter out, you will have a fresh slate with all the frenzy just a learning experience for the sellers.

Don't be rushed through negotiations. I have seen contracts put into acceptance in hours and at the worst, weeks. I would say, a good negotiation should take no more than two days, with five rounds of counteroffers. If either side starts to delay their response to a counteroffer more than one day, it's a red flag. Give reasonable deadlines for a response to all your counteroffers.

Full price offers. Sometimes if a home is priced right and new to the market, and you really want it, offer full price. I've seen homes slip away over a thousand dollars, and in the scheme of things or as a ratio of list price, it's dumb.

Withdrawing an offer. If you are working with unreasonable people, or terms that are agreed to are change and continually in flux, walk away. First though, withdraw the offer. Withdrawing can really tell the other side that they are unreasonable. Sometimes they get it, sometimes they don't. But, most houses are worth the trouble of torture-some sellers or buyers.

Keep a written record of negotiations. It's easy after a couple of rounds to forget that you agreed to leave the basement refrigerator, or as a buyer to shorten your mortgage contingency, make sure you write down all the changes each round, all experienced real estate agents do.

Mark Nash, is a residential real estate author, broker, columnist and writer based in Chicago. His fourth book 1001 Tips for Buying and Selling a Home received eighteen five star reviews on Amazon.com. His latest book; Real Estate A-Z for Buying & Selling a Home will be published in December 2006. Mark publishes a free monthly ezine for real estate professionals. Agent to Agent features ten articles that offer free reprints for agents, home buyers and sellers through EzineArticles.com . Real estate news and book reviews, Celebrity Homestyles, Home selling and buying tips and advice, Joke-of-the-Month, Help this Agent, and agent marketing tips. Over 5000 subscribers in the U.S. & Canada. Subscribe at: http://www.1001realestatetips.com/forrealestateagents.html

Friday, January 16, 2009

Where to Buy Backpacks

Backpacks can be bought from various places, ranging from street stores to factory outlets and from malls to designer showrooms and online stores. There are different types of backpacks before buying a backpack, you must be clear about the kind of backpack you want to buy.

The best place to buy cheap backpacks would be flea markets, garage sales, discount stores or small shops. Several online stores also sell cheap backpacks but most of these are replicas and fakes. It is difficult to judge the quality of cheap backpacks offered by online stores.

Branded backpacks are manufactured by large companies, both domestic and foreign. These companies use superior quality material and provide guarantee to the consumer for their goods. The best place to buy these backpacks would be from factory outlets, discount stores or malls. These companies often organize periodic end of season sales, or clearance sales. This would be the best time and place to buy the backpacks at a discount. Branded backpacks may also be ordered online.

Designer backpacks are designed by fashion designers and are the most expensive among the three, due to their uniqueness and fashion statements. The best place to buy these would be an outlet of the designer or a high end stores stocking with these kinds of backpacks. One must remember to check for authenticity while making a purchase, as there are a large number of fakes in the markets. These backpacks can also be ordered online.

There are different ways and places for buying different kinds of backpacks. One can find the right place, once one is very clear about the purpose for which the backpack is being purchased and the kind of backpack that will suit the purpose.

Backpacks provides detailed information on Backpacks, Leather Backpack, School Backpacks, Laptop Backpack and more. Backpacks is affiliated with Magnetic Chalkboards.


Thursday, January 15, 2009

Backpacks and Bullies. Is Your Child Prepared?

Backpacks and Bullies. Is Your Child Prepared?

 by: Patricia Gatto

As the flurry of Back to School activities subside, parents are left to ponder more pressing issues than notebooks, backpacks, and sneakers.

Will my child succeed this year? Will his academic and social growth meet my hopes and expectations? Have I done everything I can to make this possible?

If you haven't prepared your child for the school bully, not only could your dreams and aspirations end in failure, but your child could fall victim to the violence, and suffer long-lasting repercussions.

Make no mistake; bullying is a form of violence. Experts estimate that almost 75% of today's youth will be involved in some aspect of bullying before they enter high school. And chances are, your child will be among the statistics.

Humiliation, fear, anxiety and depression are the constant companions of a child that is bullied. It can lead to harmful, shocking and unexpected behavior from an otherwise shy or timid child.

Victims feel ashamed and tend to view themselves as failures. They are more prone to stress related illnesses such as headaches and stomachaches. In extreme cases, the victim of a bully can experience sever depression and entertain thoughts of suicide.

Lack of safety is one of the top concerns of young people, and bullying is a real and constant threat. A child's emotional development is just as important, if not more so, than academic development. In fact, a safe, healthy emotional environment is essential to academic growth and success.

How do you prepare your child for the school bully?

Become involved and make certain your school has active anti-bullying policies in place. Disciplinary guidelines, procedures for investigating and reporting incidences of bullying, adequate supervision, and an immediate plan of action to address reports of bullying are key elements to a successful program.

Teach your child to walk tall and proud and to maintain eye contact. Portraying a positive, self-confident stature will help your child cope in many areas.

Be certain to compliment your child and gently encourage changes that will bolster self-esteem. Use positive words that validate his or her rights as a person.

Use role-playing techniques to illustrate proper responses to negative situations. This will build strength, courage and provide your child with valuable emotional resources to pull from in times of trouble.

Help your child to identify role models, from sports heroes to everyday man. Discuss the obstacles and accomplishments they endured, focusing on the resilient human spirit.

Read stories together that inspire. Discuss how strength of character and perseverance can achieve a positive outcome without resorting to violence or force.

Encourage your child to keep a diary or journal, write poetry or songs. Writing provides a safe outlet for your child and creativity and self-expression are helpful tools used to work through negative issues.

If your child has difficulties making or maintaining friends, intervene - friendships are a protection against bullying. Identify children that might have things in common with your child and arrange a visit.

Encourage your child to join activities both in and out of school that will result in friendships while building strength and confidence.

But most important, don't diminish your child's concern over a classmate's taunting and teasing, it could very well lead to damaging repercussions. Instead, prepare your child for the bully by empowering him with confidence and self-esteem through your words, actions and embrace.

About The Author

Patricia Gatto and John De Angelis are the authors of MILTON'S DILEMMA, the tale of a lonely boy's magical journey to friendship and self-acceptance. As advocates for literacy and children's rights, the authors speak at schools and community events to foster awareness and provide children with a safe and healthy learning environment. For more information, please visit Joyful Productions at http://www.joyfulproductions.com


pgatto@ptd.net


Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Car Rentals For Alicante Benidorm And Torrevieja

The most convenient way to travel throughout the Costa Blanca region is by an Alicante car rental. There are nine car hire companies operating at the Alicante International Airport, including Avis, Hertz, Altesa, Centauro, Aruiga, Europa, Record, Solmar and Euopcar. These car rental companies are conveniently grouped together in the airport and located immediately outside of the arrival area.

It is best to reserve your car before leaving home to not only guarantee the availability of car, but also to get the best deal on the car you want. The Costa Blanca area is the busiest during the summer season when car reservations fill up quickly. Consider reserving a car at the same time you make your hotel and flight reservations. You will likely find a better deal if you reserve a car in advance. If you do not know what size you need, at least reserve an economy size as you can always upgrade to a larger vehicle later.

When searching for a car, compare deals and availability with several car hire companies to get the best rate. You can call the company directly, can call a travel agent or search the internet. Travel agents sometimes offer hotel and flight packages that may include car rental. Of course, compare the cost of the entire package to the price of reserving each part separately. It may or may not be a better deal, but despite how you choose to find your car, there are a few car rental extras that you should consider when comparing rental packages.

First, consider whether or not you want to pick the car up from the airport or in the city. Generally, there is little difference between the cost of renting a car directly from the airport or from a city, such as Benidorm or Torrevieja. However, you should check the cost between the two options. It may be cheaper to rent in town and companies often provide transportation from the airport.

Also, if you need an infant or child seat, be sure to reserve a seat when you originally book your car rental. Child safety seats are the law in Spain and you want to be sure there are appropriate seats available based on your child?s size and weight. You will pay an additional fee, but such seats are available as a car rental extra. Of course, you can always bring a car seat from home. Though the added ?luggage? may be somewhat of a hassle, you will not have to worry that the seat will not be the appropriate size for your child. The money you save may be worth the added inconvenience.

Finally, with the hot weather during summers in the Alicante area, you will definitely want air conditioning. It may not be available in all vehicles. Be sure to confirm that this extra is included, if you plan on cool and comfortable travels during your stay. It will make a big difference.


About the Author:

Concentrating on news and information about Benidorm, Clinton Maxwell publishes largely for http://www.alicante-spain.com . You can see his publications on Alicante car rental over at http://www.alicante-spain.com .


Monday, January 12, 2009

Top Tips for Home Buyers and Sellers During the Holidays in 2006

Searching for or selling a home in November or December can be stressful in addition to the built-in holiday frenzy. Simple tips for buyers and sellers can minimize stress and possibly facilitate a sale.

Sellers.

-Consider potential buyers spiritual backgrounds in your market before decorating for a holiday.

-Less is more when decorating a home for the holidays while you are trying to sell. Streamline the amount of holiday specific decorations you display.

-Large over-size Christmas trees and other holiday decorations consume space that might make rooms or landscapes appear smaller.

-Install and remove exterior holiday decorations 2 weeks before and after holiday.

-Turn off lighted holiday decorations before showings, buyers should focus on your home and not your decorations.

-If you are having out-of-town house guests, ask your real estate agent to postpone showings until after your guests depart.

-Display summer photos of home and gardens to inform buyers of the features of the home in other seasons.

-Before showings remove snow, ice and leaves from walkways and driveways. Don't overlook outside entrances to basements, garages, and porches. Pet dropping are a turn-off to buyers.

Buyers.

-You can find motivated sellers at year-end, but don't think they'll give away their home. Do your homework before drafting a real estate contract. Look only at sold comparable's from the last six months.

-Don't be afraid to ask for concessions from sellers. Popular give-backs from sellers to buyers are: property and transfer tax rebates, closing cost credits and paying mortgage points.

-When performing a home inspection in wintry weather, it's easy to forgo adequate roof and air-conditioning condenser reviews. If you can't see or operate a structural or mechanical system, ask for an extension until the weather improves.

-Patience rules at the holidays. Everyone is busy, and if it takes an extra day to view a property, it's not uncommon.

Both.

-If you plan to close the purchase or sale of a home near a holiday, check with your agent, title company and lender to verify two business days before closing that they have all the required documents and funds have been wired to complete the transaction.

-If you are closing on your new home, select a mid-week day, early in the day, to schedule your closing time, to accommodate last minute delays by a mortgage loan processor, insurance or title company.

-If you plan to move during the holidays, keep in mind that moving companies will require more notice and could charge additional fees for packing, moving and delivering household goods on week-ends and holidays.

Mark Nash is the author of Fundamentals of Marketing for the Real Estate Professional, Starting & Succeeding in Real Estate, Reaching Out: The Financial Power of Niche Marketing, and 1001 Tips for Buying and Selling a Home. Mark is a contributing writer for: Realtor (R) Magazine Online, Broker Agent News, Real Estate Executive Magazine, Principal Broker, and Realty Times. He contributes residential real estate analysis to Business Week, CBS The Early Show, CNN, HGTVpro.com, The New York Times, The Today Show and USA Today. View his books at http://www.1001RealEstateTips.com

Saturday, January 10, 2009

Sell Coins Medals and Tokens on eBay

Tell me: what does the word ?coins? conjure up in your mind?s eye? Is it neat velour covered boxes with a multitude of shiny coins sitting neatly in slots and covered in perspex, or coins hidden below ground centuries ago to safeguard one's wealth from wayside robbers and vagabonds?

And ?medals?? Do you see long rows of brightly colored gongs and ribbon with some long dead soldier?s name carved on the side, or Cruft?s Championship Tokens, ?Blue Peter? giveaways, some Boy Scout's best attempt at tying reef knots or thousands more alongside?

And what of tokens? Love tokens? Bus tokens?

I?ll tell you what coins, medals and tokens mean to me - an immensely popular eBay collecting category with hot selling products and little competition.

An eBay PowerSeller's dream come true and also a great way to lose money, lots of money, if you're not careful.

YOU MUST SPECIALISE

Most certain profits come from unusual and even unique medals in specific high interest collectible sub-categories. Study the niches and you'll always succeed. So instead of buying and selling 'medals'; namely any medals, coins and tokens, go for Boer War Military Medals, Police Dog Bravery Medals. For coins, opt for limited edition collectors' sets and buy when they are new, store them safely away for a few years, promote them outside their area of origin and expect decent or magnificent profits. For tokens, choose mining tokens from a colliery long since closed, possibly one with a sad or tragic history of serious accidents. For sports medals and tokens, choose popular sports like golf and cricket, motor cycling and football.

SUB-CATEGORY: MILITARY MEDALS

Military medals vary in price according to actual battles and recipient?s rank, also level of bravery involved. So a bravery medal awarded to a high-ranking officer in the First World War ? long battle period, wide scale action, many countries involved ? might - be worth less than one awarded for similar level of bravery, to similar service rank, in a shorter war involving fewer countries and smaller geographic scale, such as Vietnam, Falklands War, Iraqi War. Only 'might' remember because two or more people desperate to have an otherwise common item can start another war, a bidding war with fierce bidding and high finishing prices.

TIPS

* Beware of re-engraved medals. It was quite common for men who lost their own medals or were less than proud of their own service status, to buy another man?s medals and remove the name and re-engrave with their own names.

* Medals were worn with pride and polished sometimes daily causing wear and reducing value. Medals dropped or otherwise facing heavy use get damaged and are also worth less than their pristine counterparts.

* Fakes abound for really rare medals so aim to prove authenticity such as by checking vendor's background for military decorated relatives, check letters and photographs, consult military records for really high price items.

Avril Harper is a business writer and eBay PowerSeller who has produced several guides to making money from eBay, including MAKE MONEY TEARING UP OLD BOOKS AND MAGAZINES AND SELLING THEM ON EBAY which you can read about at: http://www.magstoriches.com 103 POWERSELLER TIPS can be downloaded with other freely distributable reports and eBooks at http://www.avrilharper.com


Thursday, January 8, 2009

Child Booster Seat Safety Guide

Numerous reports have revealed that in the United States, the primary cause of childrens deaths is vehicle crashes or accidents. These accidents are becoming so rampant with more and more children now spending their time in cars than they used to. Accidents are also growing in numbers with more and more cars hitting the road than ever before. But luckily, child safety seats and belts were produced and distributed to at least help keep the children safe.

The child safety seats and belts come in a number of types. The most common and the most preferred is the booster seat.

The booster seat, on the most basic, works exactly as to what its name suggests it boosts the child up so that the vehicles lap and shoulder belts restrain him safely. This item is highly preferred for the reason that without it, an adult seat belt can cause harms to your child in the event of a crash rather than preventing it. It is for this idea also that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration now suggests that all children who have outgrown their car seats should continue to ride in booster seats until they reach the age of 8 and 4 feet 9 inches tall.

However, not all booster seats are used properly and securely. It is for this fact that certain administrations have set certain child booster seat safety guidelines for every adult to consider and note. What these child booster seat safety guidelines are? Consider the following:

* For ultimate child booster seat safety, it is always important to design the seat for use as a booster seat. If you dont know about the proper installation, it is best to check the labels and manuals to make sure that the seat can be used as a booster seat. In relation to this, it is maintained by the child booster seat safety rules that the booster seats designed for use at the table are not for use in vehicles. It can only be used if it meets the motor vehicle safety standards.

* The seat must fit well in the vehicle. If you found out that the tips of the seat go around corners or slides around on the vehicle seat, it is clear that it is not the perfect device to use. For an ensured child booster seat safety, the seat should be compatible to your vehicle seat. It should stay upright when occupied and its base should remain attached to the vehicle seat back at all times.

* Another notable child booster seat safety rule maintained by certain administrations noted that the safety seat should provide your child the adequate head support.

* The seat belts must fit the child comfortably. The lap belt, in particular, should fit snugly over the upper thighs of your child, and it should not ride up onto his stomach. It should cross your childs shoulder without slipping into the arm or rubbing against the neck.

Note that all of these child booster seat safety rules are designed to make parents and guardians aware that although booster seats are available for use, not all can fit well to your vehicle and so to your child. Choosing the right one is very much important.

Milos Pesic is a successful webmaster and owner of popular and comprehensive Child Safety information site. For more articles and resources on Child Safery related related topics, visit his site at:

=>http://child-safety.need-to-know.net/

By Milos Pesic

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Land Cruiser The Most Recognizable Way To Explore The Unfamiliar From Toyota

Current Version:

Land Cruiser is most valued brand from the Toyota. For half a century, over 4 million Land Cruisers have traversed paths from the Dead Sea to the Himalayas. The latest Land Cruiser 2007 model comes with a verity of new features like built in Bluetooth hands free technology, DVD entertainment and a sumptuous interior have softened its edges. But its husky VVT-i V8 will remind you of why Land Cruiser is a legend throughout the world.

General Introduction:

Land Cruiser is a prestigious model from Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Corporation. It is a series of popular four-wheel drive sport utility vehicles. The Land Cruiser is the most popular vehicle in the world's most grueling terrains and climates. This helps you understand the strength of Land Cruiser.

Land Cruiser was first designed in 1951. However, the first model came out in 1954 under the tag Toyota Jeep. After that, Toyota Land Cruiser has undergone many transformations. Some of them include convertible, hardtop, station wagon and even pickup trucks.

A Toyota designer explained the origin of the Land Cruiser, Growing up after the war, I was really impressed by the US Army personnel's Jeeps... and how they could climb up and over obstacles. We have many classic shrines with stairs leading up to them, and these cars simply climbed up those steps. I decided that one day I would make a similar kind of 'mobile', something more like an animal or insect than a car, which could do even better.

Current Available Features:

Exterior Features:

Toyota Land Cruiser is available with a lot of options in 2007. The exteriors come with aerodynamic multi-reflector, halogen headlamps with Daytime Running Lights (DRL) and auto on/off feature. The fog lamps are also integrated into the model. There is also Full-time 4WD system with locking center differential facility.

The newer model also comes with a All-Weather Guard Package. This package includes heavy-duty battery, starter and windshield washer fluid tank; rear-seat heater ducts. Color-coordinated front and rear bumpers and body side moldings gives the new Toyota Land Cruiser a great look from the outside. Front and rear frame-mounted towing hooks add up to that look. Dual color-keyed power heated outside mirrors comes as a big plus. Privacy glass with UV reduction helps in protecting the travelers from the Ultra Violet Radiation.

Interiors:

Power tilt and telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls and leather-wrapped shift lever is definitely a must for this legendary vehicle and is provided with this newer version. There is also tilt/slide power glass moon roof with sunshade and one-touch open/close operation with jam protection. Auto-dimming electro chromic rearview mirror with compass is also provided with the model of 2007. Key-integrated multi-function remote keyless entry system with panic feature is a great addition for this historical Land Cruiser.

Voice-activated DVD navigation system, with 7-in. display and backup camera, Bluetooth wireless technology, integrated audio and climate controls, and JBL AM/FM Cassette/center console-mounted 6-disc CD/DVD changer, seven speakers, 300 watts (maximum possible output), FM diversity reception and adjustable power antenna.

Instrumentation:

The model of 2007 comes with various instrumentation options like speedometer, tachometer, coolant temperature, fuel level, oil pressure and voltmeter gauges; digital odometer and twin trip meters. JBL 3-in-1 AM/FM Cassette/6-disc in-dash CD changer, seven speakers, 300 watts (maximum output), FM diversity reception and adjustable power antenna also included.

Safety:

With this legendary model, safety is also a big advantage. Star Safety System -- includes Vehicle Stability Control, Active Traction Control, 4-wheel Anti-lock Brake System with Electronic Brake-force Distribution, and Brake Assist. This 2007 model also includes 3-point Automatic/Emergency Locking Retractor seatbelts in all outboard and second-row center seating positions; 2-point lap belt in center position of third row. Driver and front passenger seat-mounted side airbags and front- and second-row side curtain airbags are as usual with this model.

Child Restraint System (CRS) top tether anchors and ISO-FIX lower anchor points. This option along with Child-protector rear door locks helps in protecting children effectively

Pricing:

With all these additions in the new version of 2007, Toyota has priced it?s legendary Land Cruiser at $56,215 as the starting price. By depending upon the accessories and upon the place of delivery, the price can vary a bit.

Srinivas is a prolific author with more than 5 years of expereince in writing on various subjects. He did MBA from SYMBIOSIS, INDIA. He can be reached at srinivas@techzing.com Apply for IT Jobs here


Monday, January 5, 2009

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Sunday, January 4, 2009

Options to Hold Title on Real Estate

Don't wait to the flurry of activity right before closing on your new home to decide how to hold title to the property you're purchasing. After you have an accepted contract on a home, consult with an experienced real estate attorney to determine which option is best for you and anyone else you are buying the property with. Title is the legal document that gives you ownership or evidence that you own a specific piece of land. Here are some common types of ways to hold title. Check with an attorney on variables in holding title by state.

-Tenancy in common. When two or more persons own a piece of real estate. Each owns an undivided fractional interest.

-Joint tenancy. When a property is owned by at least two people, and all have the right of survivorship, until only one person is left and that person takes sole ownership. Rights of survivorship in some states have been terminated.

-Tenancy by the entirety. Created for married couples with full rights of survivorship. Each person has an undivided interest in the property. These tenancies can be terminated by death, divorce, legal judgment, or written agreement.

-Severalty. One person holds title to a property.

-Trusts. Ownership to real estate can be held in a trust. Control is transferred to a third-party for the benefit of the owner.

-Cooperatives. The corporation who holds title to the land and structure delivers owners or shareholders stock in the specific units. Consult state laws for further information on cooperatives.

-Ownership of real estate by businesses varies state by state, consult local laws for applicable information.

-Verify that your title has been properly recorded after it has been delivered and accepted by you.

Mark Nash is the author of Fundamentals of Marketing for the Real Estate Professional, Starting & Succeeding in Real Estate, Reaching Out: The Financial Power of Niche Marketing, and 1001 Tips for Buying and Selling a Home. Mark is a contributing writer for: Realtor (R) Magazine Online, Broker Agent News, Real Estate Executive Magazine, Principal Broker, and Realty Times. His tried and true real estate tips has been featured on Business Week, CBS The Early Show, CNN, HGTVpro.com, The New York Times, and USA Today. Purchase his books at http://www.1001RealEstateTips.com .

Saturday, January 3, 2009

Massage Therapy Schools in Nebraska

Good massage therapy schools in Nebraska endeavor to promote a solid and thorough education in this healthcare field through courses in both academics and bodywork. By providing the courses and by teaching the various specialized methods of massage therapy, Nebraska massage therapy schools can help you obtain an exciting career as a healthcare professional in this growing and lucrative field.

Massage schools and massage therapy training can be found in vocational and technical schools, community colleges, and four-year colleges and universities around the state of Nebraska. There are accredited and reputable schools devoted wholly to developing skills of massage therapy in Lincoln, Omaha, and South Sioux City.

Students in accredited massage therapy schools will learn the structure and functions of the human body with courses in kinesiology, biology, anatomy, and physiology. Additional subjects may include nutrition, psychology, massage skills and techniques, communications, and even business courses to prepare students for massage therapy business operations. Students will also gain extensive practical experience through the intensive performance of massage techniques under the supervision of trained professional massage therapists.

Oftentimes, the student who is gaining a massage education will develop an interest in other, more advanced forms of natural healing, such as acupuncture or chiropractic. It is not unusual for the massage student to branch out into other fields of holistic medicine.

There are generally considered to be two broad styles of massage: Eastern and Western. Both may be learned in massage therapy schools in Nebraska. Western styles of massage therapy focus on physical aspects of health and wellness, while Eastern styles reflect total health and wellbeing of the client - mind, body, and spirit. Both Eastern and Western forms of massage are used for physical therapy, sports and orthopedic therapies, and chiropractic therapies. Massage school graduates are qualified for positions in nursing homes, hospitals, clinics, spas, and resorts, and others.

Licensure as a massage therapist is required to practice massage in Nebraska. Aspiring massage therapists will need to understand laws and regulations of the state before setting up a practice in massage therapy.

To learn more about Massage Therapy Schools in Nebraska and even Online Massage Therapy Schools, search our site for more in-depth information and resources.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERAL OVERVIEW and may or may not reflect specific practices, courses and/or services associated with ANY ONE particular school(s) that is or is not advertised on SchoolsGalore.com.

Copyright 2007 - All rights reserved by Media Positive Communications, Inc.

Notice: Publishers are free to use this article on an ezine or website, provided the article is reprinted in its entirety, including copyright and disclaimer, and ALL links remain intact and active.

Michael Bustamante is a staff writer for Media Positive Communications, Inc. Find Massage Therapy Schools, Colleges, Universities, Vocational Schools, Chiropractic Schools and other Alternative Medicine Schools at SchoolsGalore.com, your educational resource to locate schools.


Friday, January 2, 2009

Are You Suffering From Anemic Profitosis?

Is your investment income looking a bit pale and fatigued? Do you become nauseated at the site of your profit and loss statement? Are you itching to sell properties that are losing money? Chances are you're suffering from a lingering case of anemic profitosis.

Sooner or later many real estate investors begin to show symptoms of this affliction. Occurrences of this disease are most common during times of transition in the real estate markets. At present we are moving from a hot sellers market to a cooler buyers market. The changing conditions often catch many investors holding properties that just won't move. This extra inventory can leave you feeling bloated and irritable. The result can be a devastating case of anemic profitosis.

One of the primary causes of anemic profitosis is severe swelling in the taxinus maximus. In most markets, this condition usually develops slowly over time, and tends to get worse year by year if left untreated. In some areas swelling property tax rates have all but wiped out positive cashflow. In extreme cases this can lead to a very bad rash of selling among landlords who did not realize that they were paying too much for their property at the time they bought it. Like many afflictions, anemic profitosis can be difficult to detect in the early stages.

Another common cause of anemic profitosis is buying pre-construction at near full price, then discovering afterward that there is not enough appreciation to cover your costs. This painful condition is often accompanied by sleeplessness, migraine headaches and multiple trips to the lenders office to beg for deferred payments. Symptoms include buying preconstruction condo developments in Florida, in markets that are already overbuilt and oversold to investors.

Chronic cases of anemic profitosis often arise when investors associate with high-risk groups. Chief among such groups are marketing gimmicks that offer to find houses for investors. Symptoms of this malady include paying a fee to join a group or club that will find the houses, arrange for your financing and take care of all of the details for you. A key symptom is the fact that you do not need to know anything about real estate investing. In many cases this leads to swollen purchase prices which can inflame or burst your budget, leading to severe financial emergencies. This situation can also be difficult to detect in the early stages, so it is best to avoid all contact with such high risk groups.

If you are an investor who is struggling with anemic profitosis, take heart. There is a cure.

Of course like they say An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. But in this case the same solution that can cure this malady can also prevent it if the symptoms are caught early enough.

The only known cure and the only known way to prevent anemic profitosis is to develop an excellent understanding of real estate fundamentals. Investors who are immune to anemic profitosis or have recovered from it have discovered that the profit is really made when you buy; therefore Buying Right is the key to avoiding a nasty case of anemic profitosis. Buyers-Anonymous is full of recovering investors who admit that they got involved in deals they did not understand, with people they did not know.

Investors that earn healthy profits in any market will tell you that they don't buy anything unless the price is right. But these investors have the ability to determine what the right price is; because they understand the fundamentals of the market they're working in and generally choose a more conservative, common sense approach to their investing strategy.

The bottom line is that all strategies work sometimes but no strategy works every time. In order to understand what strategy will work in a given situation it is necessary to understand the fundamentals of that particular investment and choose the strategy that will work best within the given circumstances.

Fundamentals will affect your strategy choices, but strategy choices cannot change the fundamentals. For example:

Interest rates are a fundamental issue. Each investor will be able to qualify for financing at a certain interest rate. For some investors this interest rate will be low, for other investors this interest rate may be several points higher. Some investors will be able to pay all cash and will not have an interest rate at all. In all three cases the costs of funding will vary and strategy decisions may be altered in each case due to the cost of funds. Whatever strategy you choose, your cost of funds will be a fundamental issue that you will have to work with.

When interest rates are low, financing is easier to get, there are more buyers, so you can sell faster for more money. This condition makes for a better chance of fast cash profits. But when interest rates are rising, fewer buyers can qualify for a home. So they move into rental apartments and houses instead. Therefore rental income tends to grow, and income properties will cashflow better. And, creative seller financing is easier to find in a buyers market.

Equity is a central fundamental issue. Simply put, the more equity in the property, generally the better the profits will be. It is much more difficult to make a profit from low equity deals than it is to profit from high equity situations. Equity gives you more flexibility, and more exit strategy choices.

Property Taxes are a major fundamental issue. No matter what type of property you purchase, no matter what investing strategy you choose, property taxes will affect your profitability.

There are many other fundamentals issues such as location, area demographics, and available inventory, just to name a few.

Adaptability is the key to avoiding chronic cases of anemic profitosis. The ability to adapt to changing market conditions comes only from understanding how the fundamentals will affect your investment. Whether commercial or residential, healthy long-term investing requires the ability to analyze your market, and make adjustments to your buying and selling strategy for maximum profitability.

Whether you are suffering from a lingering case of anemic profitosis, or you want to avoid this affliction entirely, you'll need quality investing education that teaches you how to understand the fundamentals and then apply them to create profitable investing opportunities in any market.

Donna Robinson is a real estate investor, consultant and market analyst, based in Atlanta, GA. You can get more information about avoiding the disabling effects of anemic profitosis on her website: http://www.REIUonline.com