The United Kingdom now has its own mainstream prepaid MasterCard card, which is good news for budget-conscious consumers looking to avoid falling into debt by carefully managing their monthly outgoings.
The new cashplus product is interest free, allows you to only spend what you have prepaid onto the card and you do not need to have a bank account or undergo a credit check to get one.
Consumers will be able to use their cashplus prepaid MasterCard at 23 million retail outlets and 1 million ATMs worldwide. The card is not visually branded as a prepaid product and looks like any other MasterCard card.
Cardholders will be able to pay bills over the phone or Internet, book travel and entertainment tickets online and travel without the need for travellers cheques or the security risk of carrying large amounts of cash.
Prepaid payment cards are hugely popular in the United States, where they represent a trillion dollar industry.
Advanced Payment Solutions Chief Executive Rich Wagner says the success of prepay in the UK telecommunications market, where prepaid accounts have represented over 50% of total mobile phone payments for the last five years1, is a good indicator of the appetite for prepaid products in this country.
"Cashplus offers a secure payment facility for the millions of unbanked Britons. It gives them access to ATM machines; it can be used globally and it offers payment options previously unable to them, such as online bill payment," he says.
Phil Davies, Director, Business Development, MasterCard (Europe), added, "Prepaid cards have already been immensely successful in the United States, and we're pleased to be working in partnership with APS to bring them to the UK. These innovative and secure cards will play an important role in ensuring that previously unbanked community groups are able to enjoy the convenience and safety of paying with cards. We are witnessing the evolution of a true 'plastic democracy'."
The cashplus prepaid MasterCard retails for 9.95, with the choice between a monthly subscription fee of 4.95 covering unlimited purchase transactions for high users or a 1 pay per purchase transaction model2. Cardholders get all of the purchase protection benefits of any MasterCard product and leave the store with a live ATM card for immediate use until their embossed personalised MasterCard card arrives.
(1) Source: The Telecommunications Market 2004, OFCOM
(2) Pay per purchase transaction model available at from the end of September.
See www.mycashplus.co.uk for retail outlets.
Notes to Editor:
About APS
1. Advanced Payment Solutions was established in early 2004 to become a pre-eminent leader of general purpose prepaid cards and payment solutions in the United Kingdom.
2. Its senior management team and board of directors comprise a team with unparalleled experience in the payment industry and aim to lead UK prepay market growth and emulate the success of prepaid payment cards in the US.
3. APS' first prepaid payment card, the cashplus prepaid MasterCard, launched in September 2005, is the UK's first general purpose prepaid chip and PIN payment card.
4. Alongside developing its cashplus product portfolio, APS provides turnkey solutions for businesses to offer branded prepaid products to their customers.
About MasterCard Incorporated:
MasterCard Incorporated is a leading global payments solutions company that provides a broad variety of innovative services in support of our global members' credit, deposit access, electronic cash, business-to-business and related payment programs. MasterCard, through its principal operating subsidiary, MasterCard International Incorporated, manages a family of well-known, widely accepted payment card brands including MasterCard, Maestro and Cirrus and serves financial institutions, consumers and businesses in over 210 countries and territories. The MasterCard award-winning Priceless advertising campaign is now seen in 105 countries and in 48 languages, giving the MasterCard brand a truly global reach and scope. For more information go to
www.mastercardinternational.com.
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Sunday, October 16
New Cashplus Prepaid MasterCard Card Will Help Consumers Manage Their Money
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 03:05 PM PDT
Being 'Choosy' About Carbs and Other Foods May Be More Important Than Counting Calories
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 01:17 PM PDT
VANCOUVER, BC -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 10/16/2005 -- Counting calories and portioning food is tough for many dieters. Now a new study suggests you might be as successful at weight loss by changing the types of foods you eat without counting calories. "Our results showed that a modified carbohydrate diet is a successful and alternate way to lose weight without counting calories," said lead researcher Kevin Maki, Ph.D., who presented his findings today at the North American Association for the Study of Obesity conference (Abstract # 308P). This study, funded by Kraft Foods (NYSE: KFT), was conducted by Dr. Maki and his colleagues at Radiant Research -- a research company that specializes in conducting clinical trials. Kraft announced an alliance with "The South Beach Diet" and its author Dr. Agatston in June 2004 and is committed to supporting research to document the effectiveness of the diet. Dr. Maki and colleagues evaluated the weight loss of 86 overweight/obese men and women, ages 18 to 65, who followed two different diets for 36 weeks. The first 12 weeks of treatment focused on weight loss while weeks 12 through 36 focused on weight maintenance. One group followed a traditional low-fat, portion controlled diet and was instructed to shave off 500 to 800 calories a day. The second group was told simply to eat until hunger was satisfied. They were instructed to follow a "modified-carbohydrate diet," which was consistent with the recommendations outlined in "The South Beach Diet," developed by Miami cardiologist Arthur Agatston, M.D. These participants changed the type and amount of carbohydrates -- replaced refined grains with the slower-digesting and more nutrient-rich whole grains -- and focused on lean sources of protein. Impact of Modifying Carbohydrates The dieters on the modified-carbohydrate eating plan lost significantly more weight and body fat compared to their counterparts on the low-fat, portion-controlled diet during the first 12 weeks. At nine months, while both groups lost weight, the modified-carbohydrate group lost weight more quickly than the control group. "Adopting an eating plan that includes a moderate intake of carbohydrates with an emphasis on nutrient-rich whole grains appears to result in weight loss," Dr. Maki said. "It's encouraging to see the results of this study, which are consistent with what I have seen in my own practice," said Dr. Agatston. "My patients are able to enjoy a variety of foods without counting calories or feeling deprived," he said. "This is more evidence that calories still count, but that you don't necessarily need to count calories." Calorie Balance The participants in the study who followed the principles of "The South Beach Diet" tended to consume fewer calories than those on the portion-controlled plan, even though they were not counting calories and were instructed to eat until hunger was satisfied. "Our results add to the growing body of evidence suggesting that modifying the quantity and quality of carbohydrates in the diet and changing the types of food you eat may have important influences on regulating calorie balance," Dr. Maki said. While the reasons dieters on the modified-carbohydrate plan consumed fewer calories are not fully explained, Dr. Maki said one hypothesis relates to the satiety value of the meal plan. Participants may have experienced greater feelings of fullness so they ate less, he said. "The South Beach Diet" focuses on the right carbohydrates, the right fats and lean sources of protein to help people feel more satisfied on fewer calories. Source: Maki KC, Rains TM, Kaden VN, Quinn J, Davidson MH. A randomized, controlled clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of a modified carbohydrate diet for reducing body weight and fat in overweight and obese men and women. North American Association for the Study of Obesity 2005. Abstract # (308P). The North American Association for the Study of Obesity (NAASO) is the leading scientific society dedicated to the study of obesity. Since 1982 NAASO has been committed to encouraging research on the causes and treatment of obesity, and to keeping the medical community and public informed of new advances. NAASO's membership includes over 1,700 basic and clinical researchers, who have published extensively, and care providers in obesity treatment and prevention. SOURCE: Kraft
The "Seven Cs": Partnership Danger Signs
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 10:21 AM PDT
The "Seven Cs": Partnership Danger Signs
Dr. Dorene Lehavi, Ph.D. An ongoing series of articles exploring the seven critical areas that can indicate a partnership is in trouble. The 7th C: Crisis management impaired by personal issues: - Attack and blame. - Take to drink. - Disappear. - Pass the buck. - Become hysterical. - Project your anxiety or anger onto others. - Take it out on your spouse. These are some of the ways people react in a crisis situation. Read on for alternative options for handling crisis. Crises in businesses appear in all forms and categories. They can be slow building or appear overnight. They can be business oriented or personal and have an impact on the business. Some are predictable, others not. For example, a partner may become seriously ill, a major client may leave, the economy may change and your product is no longer a high priority, an investment fails, a key employee leaves, a supplier doesn't meet a deadline and you are left with unfilled orders, the city is renovating the street in front of your store and clients shop with your competition because the approach is easier. The list of possibilities is endless. How does a business and more specifically the partnership handle the crisis? It depends on many things. The personalities and the history of how they handled crises in the past are good clues. The manner in which the crisis is handled can escalate or calm it down. The list at the beginning of this article shows examples of behavior that can escalate the problem. Here are some better ways to handle crises: - Remain calm. - Analyze. - Evaluate the repercussions of the crisis. - Examine options. - Break down the required actions to small tasks. - Delegate. - Confer with others. - Brainstorm for creative ideas with key players. - Accept responsibility. - Ask for help. Because history will play a very big role in how you and/or your partner handle a crisis, it is important to prepare for it before it happens. Even though not every crisis can be predicted or prepared for, there are things that can be in place to minimize the trauma and the damage. Here are some suggestions: Have resources available: finances, a coach, and other consultants dealing with specifics such as technical needs, key employees who can step in, alternate sources of income, excellent communication skills, and regular meetings to recognize, discuss and pre-empt problem areas before they erupt. An advertising agency, owned by Susan and Phillip, was faced with the possible loss of their biggest client. They discovered this when it was almost a fait accompli. Both of them went into attack mode, blaming each other. When the breakdown between them began affecting their managerial team, they panicked and called me in. We had never worked together before. My individual interviews with every key player revealed a list of areas of dissatisfactory communication between all the players, particularly the two partners, who on the surface got along well. Just below the surface, however, there were resentments about division of labor, job clarity, hurt feelings, and feelings of not being heard and not feeling equally rewarded for work done. The client crisis presented an opportunity for an explosion to anger that had been festering below the surface. Open and honest communication and regular meetings to discuss problems when they are small can avert or minimize meltdowns such as this one between Susan and Phillip. If the crisis is totally unexpected, the partners, rather than attacking each other, can use their communication skills and their commitment to the success of the partnership and to each other to pull together and handle the crisis. It is best for partners or potential partners to begin coaching when everything is going well. During the honeymoon period is the best time to build on strengths and discuss irritations before they become major festering wounds. Meeting once a month with a coach can achieve this in most partnerships. It is the best return on a modest investment. Dr. Dorene Lehavi, Ph.D. is principal of Next Level Business and Professional Coaching. She coaches Professionals and Business Partners. You can purchase her ebook or soft cover editions of Stop Doing What You Hate.Start Doing What You Love at http://www.StartDoingWhatYouLove.com . Contact Dr. Lehavi at Dorene@CoachingforYourNextLevel.com or on the web at http://www.CoachingforYourNextLevel.com and sign up for her free newsletter, Mastering Your Next Level.
Building an Effective Investment Plan
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 04:03 AM PDT
Avoid Being a Victim of Phishing Scams
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 04:02 AM PDT
"Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" Party
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 04:02 AM PDT
Y Combinator and the Harvard Computer Society to Host Startup School 2005
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 04:02 AM PDT
Asbestos Consultant: One Name Multiple Roles?
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 03:16 AM PDT
Are you aware of the danger of the silent killer, mesothelioma
cancer, caused by the unchecked use of asbestos? Asbestos consultant is the person that spreads the awareness about the harmful affects of asbestos. Asbestos consultants provide information on potential dangers of asbestos and help to avoid mesothelioma, asbestosis and other serious lung disorders. Asbestos consultants also help you to become aware about the strict government laws related to working with Asbestos containing material in the industries. They help the industries to adhere to and establish safe procedures working with asbestos. This can help in preventing harmful asbestos exposure for the workmen and avoid the possibilities of contacting asbestos related disease. Another role of asbestos consultant is to check the presence of asbestos containing material in the residential and commercial buildings. The consultant has to conduct an asbestos survey and check the presence of asbestos material, check its status and take necessary steps of the material which could pose health risk for the residents and or visitors of that building. Selecting the Right Asbestos Legal Consultant: The most important asbestos consultant is the person that helps you to recover damages in asbestos related lawsuits. Selection of the right legal asbestos consultant or asbestos attorney is the key factor that could determine the outcome if you have filed a lawsuit to recover damages for asbestos related disease. Selection of asbestos attorney is a crucial decision and you should not hesitate to ask the following questions before selecting the one to represent your asbestos lawsuit. - What is the successful number of mesothelioma cases you have dealt so far? - What is the total experience (in years) of your handling such cases? - Number of cases being dealt by your firm currently. - What is the probability of your firm referring my case to some other law firm? - The number and the verdicts of the cases that your firm has personally taken to trial - Who will represent me at the trial? An attorney from your firm or someone that you will hire for this purpose - How many appeals you have handled successfully? - Will your lawyers be available to handle my appeal in case it is necessary? - What will, be your approach for this case (settlement or trial) - What will be the fee basis? Most of the asbestos legal consultants wok on a contingent fee basis wherein they charge a percentage of compensation as their fee and do not charge any fee if you do not receive any compensation. About The Author: Kirsten Hawkins is a asbestos and mesothelioma specialist from Nashville, TN. Visit http://www.asbestosblog.org/ for information on asbestos reform, mesothelioma lawsuit news, and more.
Online Auction Sites: Oh The Possibilities!
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 03:15 AM PDT
Online auction sites are set up in such a way that they can be very profitable both for you and for the auction house itself. But, what most people do not realize is that there is a world that is beyond that of Ebay! Yes, there are many other online auction sites for you to consider. Take a look at your options and see just what they offer you before you get started bidding on the web. Let?s face it, Ebay is the largest online auction site. It has become so very successful because of its vast marketing plan and the ease of use it offers its users. Everyone knows that if you can find something in the local retail area or you can find it online that you will likely find it too right on the Ebay auction site. So, how does it all work? Online auction sites are set up to allow for a meeting place of bidders and sellers. They do not sell products themselves but provide a meeting environment for you to find the people you are looking for. Of course to list a product to be sold, or in some cases to purchase a product on the web, you will be charged a fee. This is a necessary part of doing business on these websites but in cases like Ebay, it has become an excellent source of revenue as well So, who else is out there? There are other online auction sites that you should take a good look at. These include the following: ? TradeMe ? Yahoo! ? EBid ? Internet Bargain Center ? Marktplaats ? Bidville as well as many more There are many benefits to using these online auction sites including the ease of connecting with prospective buyers, the use of 24/7 availability, and worldwide exposure to say the least. Many people find excellent reasons to get into the online auction site as a business as well. There is no limit to what can be found on these websites. Taking a look at those that are less well known can be an excellent opportunity as well. About The Author: For more information please see http://www.online-auction-sites.co.uk
Internet Monitoring, Safety And Security
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 03:14 AM PDT
Internet monitoring is a necessary part of having internet service. Whether you allow your children to surf the web or if you have the need to monitor employees, effective programs can be used to help you to do this simply. There are many aspects that can be monitored and the results can be delivered to you privately. No one needs to know that you are using internet monitoring technologies either. There are many options when it comes to internet monitoring. No matter what your need is in these products, you can expect to use high tech gadgets and software. But, they are simplistic to use. Many software programs that monitor internet usage will tell you such things as how long the individual was online as well as what websites they visited, who they chatted with in instant messages, as well as anything that they input into the web. Emails can be tracked as well as a number of other things. Why should you use internet monitoring? If you are not sure your employees are using their time on the job for job related tasks, this can help you know for sure. If you are unsure of who your spouse is chatting with at night, consider the use of these monitoring solutions. Do you know if someone is stalking your child as they play games on the web? If they use instant message software, find out who they are talking to and what they are saying. Internet monitoring is really a necessary part of keeping people safe and your business under control. Effective internet monitoring software products can be purchased and installed quickly and discreetly. Be in the know. There are also many information portals now devoted to the subject and we recommend reading about it at one of these. Try googling for "internet monitoring" and you will be surprised by the abundance of information on the subject. Alternatively you may try looking on Yahoo, MSN or even a decent directory site, all are good sources of this information. About The Author: for more information please see http://www.internet-monitoring-help.co.uk
Ad Tracking Increases Your Profits
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 03:14 AM PDT
How do you know whether your advertising is effective or not? The answer is to track advertising response for each ad you run. Whether you operate a retail store, a service business, a mail order operation, or an Internet marketing business, you can measure the effectiveness of your advertising. 1. Which Publications Produce Profits? When new customers phone or visit you, ask how they found out about you. They might say they found you through your yellow pages ad or your newspaper ad. Record the responses and resulting sales from each ad. Then, analyze whether each particular advertisement is producing the desired results. If an advertisement consistently produces profits for you, keep running it. On the other hand, if an ad consistently performs poorly or produces a loss, discontinue it. In mail order, you can key each ad so that you can measure the resulting sales from each publication. For example, you could add "Dept. A" to your name or address in the ad to indicate the July issue of a particular magazine. Key it as "Dept. B" for the August issue of the same magazine. "Dept. C" could indicate the July issue of a different magazine you advertise in. Thus, as orders come in, you can track the response and sales made from each advertisement. From that information, you can easily determine the profitability of your ad in each publication. 2. Which Ads Produce Profits? Not only can ad tracking show you which publications are profiitable to advertise in, but it will also help you measure the effectiveness of the ads themselves. If you change your ad, and the results for the new ad are consistently better or worse, you can take the appropriate action; either continue or discontinue the advertisement. Change only one element in an ad at a time. For example, if you decide to change the price, don't change the headline. Otherwise, you won't know if the difference in results was due to the changed price or the changed headline. For greater certainty, change only one thing at a time when testing your ads. On the Internet, you can use tracking software and services that will aid you to determine the source of your sales and the effectiveness of your advertising, article writing, and other activities. So, whether you operate a retail store, a service business, a mail order operation, or an Internet marketing business, use ad tracking for increased profits. About The Author: Stephen Pope, President of Pope Consulting Inc., has been helping clients to earn maximum business profits for over twenty-five years. For more information about ad tracking and other profitable Work at Home Small Business Ideas, visit http://www.yenommarketinginc.com/ad-tracking.html
Poker Chips: Design And Tips
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 03:14 AM PDT
Poker chips, or poker tokens, are used to keep track during
gambling and replace money during the game. Even though poker chips are called clay chips, poker chip sets are not entirely made of clay. Sometimes clay is used as filler, but it is always mixed with some synthetic material for durability. Clay composite chip sets were popular in the early 1800s and today are rarely used mainly because they are more expensive and tend to break easily. Today the most popular poker chip sets are made of plastic, clay composite, and acrylic. Since 1930s poker chip sets were decorated with metal foil for extra durability and security. Ten years later, poker chip sets were printed in the center and along the edges. Since 1950s most casinos introduced their own designs and logos imprinted on the poker chip sets, and these chips became collectable items. To add extra security and prevent counterfeiting, casinos started to use unique blends and materials in their poker chips. Most often, it's a top-secret blend of synthetic polymer acrylic composite, sometimes with added clay or kaolin. All casinos have their own unique colorful designs or at least a logo on their poker chip sets. These sets are produced only by a few specially appointed companies in the US, and the designs are protected by copyright. For home gambling metal core poker or plastic chip sets are used. The metal core ones are heavier, can be customized in design and color scheme, which adds that special casino feel to them. Plastic poker chip sets are more lightweight and can be damaged more easily. On the other hand, they are less expensive and can be bought anywhere in any quantity. Plastic poker chip sets are the best choice for beginners in gambling, or for people who play occasionally. When people become serious about poker and start playing regularly, they prefer to invest in metal core poker chip sets or even in composite clay poker chip sets. Poker chip sets are widely available on the Internet. Most companies when you place an order send a sample chip. You can also collect a nice poker chip set if you buy one-dollar chips from casinos – these would be of much better quality than any chips you could buy in stores, plus, they are a great conversational piece! And you can always trade them back for money in the casino or even play with them. If you decide to keep your casino poker chip set, you need to provide them with a good "home". To keep your poker chips safe you need a poker chip case with lock and key where you would store your set during a poker session. Most often, you will get a complementary poker chip case when you place an order for a poker chip set. If you buy one separately, look for a case made of metal or hard wood, with a reliable lock and soft interior lining to protect chips and cards. Plastic or vinyl cases are easily damaged and do not provide enough protection for heavier poker chip sets. When you are ready to buy your poker chip set, make sure you go for the best quality you can afford and that you order enough chips to accommodate the number of players you usually have. As a rule, you cannot have too many chips, but if you order not enough of them, you can easily add more. Store them in a reliable poker chip case and enjoy the game! About The Author: Kathryn Whittaker writes articles on a number of different topics. For more information on Poker chips please visit http://www.poker-chips-guide.com and for additional poker articles please visit http://www.poker-chips-guide.com/pokerchips-articles/
Picking Out The Best Nursing School
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 03:13 AM PDT
The health care profession has certainly grown throughout
recent years from pharmacists to doctors and especially nurses wherein the demand in the United States has been steadily increasing. Various nursing schools, which can be found in the country, will be able to provide nursing aspirants with the proper training as well as nursing degrees which will play a critical role in the country's health care system. Since there are various nursing schools in the country, expect that these nursing schools also offer various types of nursing education which includes the registered nursing degree, RN to BSN programs, licensed practical nursing schools, RN to MSN programs, CAN training as well as parish nursing. It really depends on the kind of nursing job that you want to pursue later after you graduate from the nursing school. In nursing schools, some of the nursing education programs are especially designed for students who are already registered nurses who want to give their career that added boost which is why in the RN to BS nursing education programs in the nursing schools, teachers will their nursing school students to prepare for the transition towards taking on more senior nursing roles in the nursing profession. Each and every nursing school actually offers the needed clinical training which is needed in your area so that you will be ensured that whatever nursing education and training that you get from these nursing schools, you will surely be able to benefit from them once you start working in the health care profession. Also make sure that whichever nursing school that you choose to attend to is actually NLN accredited. Nursing school graduates are definitely in high demand nowadays since there are more and more important managing roles in clinics, hospitals, research etc that are in great need of professional nurses. There is actually a great shortage of nurses in the United States which is why a lot people are being encouraged to become nurses since not only is it a great job but it does have its numerous benefits as well. However, if the United States continues to have a great shortage on nurses, the country will be suffering a shortage of 400,000 professional nurses by the year 2020. A good nursing education from a reputable nursing school will be able to help these nursing students prepare for the seemingly daunting task of helping the sick, the injured and the disabled. And in addition, each and every nursing school in the United States also offers financial aid as well as job placement assistance for their students. Aside from the usual nursing schools wherein you actually have to go there to have the nursing education that you are looking for, take classes and basically just have a normal nursing life, there are those working professionals who are thinking of becoming professional nurses but don't actually have the time to go to nursing schools. Various nursing schools in the country have thought of putting up online schools so that these working professionals as well as those who opt to have the leisure of time when it comes to studying, to just take their classes as well as their other training modules in the comfort of their own homes or whichever place they can find which has a computer and an internet connection. The California College for Health Sciences is a good online nursing school because it offers comprehensive online diploma courses for both bachelor's and master's degree programs in various health care professions such as Nursing, respiratory therapy, early childhood education, public health and health care management. This popular online nursing school also offers the following health care programs, administration (for the medical office), dental assistant, gerontology, EKG technician, health care management as well as health care management associates, health care management (bachelor's degree), health care management (master's degree), medical transcription, nursing (master's degree), nursing (RN to bachelor's degree), pharmacy assistant/technician and respiratory therapy. There really are a lot of career opportunities that are just waiting to be tapped by simply attending a reputable nursing school. Various nursing jobs that are available in various hospitals and clinics right now are the following: registered nurse, case management nurse, clinical nurse specialist, home health aides, home health nurse, hospital nurse. LPN careers nurse, anesthetist nurse, midwife nurse practitioner and nursing aides. About The Author: For more great nursing school info and advice check out: http://www.nursingschoolhq.com
Credit Card Machines
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 03:13 AM PDT
Credit Cards Machines come in all shapes and styles. Credit card machines come in a variety of price ranges, offering enough choices that you can select exactly the model your business would thrive with. Credit card machines are a must for any business to succeed in today's market. Credit card machines tap into the most popular form of payment for products and services: credit cards. Since the evolution of the atm card into a debit card, credit card machines have developed many talents. Credit card machines can run payments on a card as a check, as a debt transaction straight from a checking account, or as a credit card payment that a patron will pay at a later date as decided by the credit card company. Credit card machines offer the security of positive payment. A credit card machine offers increased reliability, ensuring money is in an account before your clients leave with product. Money saved in bad check recovery more than makes up for the cost of credit card machines. There are many different kinds of credit card machines. Some credit card machines tap into the credit system without a printer. These terminals make sense for mail order or phone order businesses. When a merchant does not need to issue a receipt of sale at the time of the sale, the merchant can save money by not buying a terminal-printer combo. Credit card machines without a printer are the cheapest machines, costing between two hundred and five hundred dollars. Landscaping, locksmith, and plumbing businesses, businesses where travel and on-site payment is required without immediate access to a credit card terminal, all benefit from credit card machines lacking printers. Credit card machines that include a printer are the most common form of credit card machine used in industry today. Printers on credit card machines can be integrated impact or thermal. A single unit dually functions to process the credit card transaction and then to print a receipt. These machines can be more expensive than those terminals without printers, but they are reasonable and effective in medium volume retail. These credit card machines range from under three hundred dollars to nine hundred dollars. Additional options can be ordered, such as a built in pin pad. These enable customers to enter their pin number for debit transactions without the merchant needing to purchase an additional machine. Some credit card machines with built in printers require ink cartridges, but some do not. While those that do not require ink cartridges may be slightly more expensive they may save time and add efficiency to sales. Wireless credit card machines provide the same functions of general credit card machines with a few overwhelming advantages. Wireless credit card machines do not require separate wires to trip on. They do not require a separate phone line. Wireless credit card machines access credit systems faster, and provide faster turn around on sales. Wireless credit card machines are more expensive and require wireless service packages, but may be a must for high volume businesses. They are effective and reliable, consisting of the most up to date technology. Regardless of the type of credit card machine you choose to invest in, credit card machines can aide your business. Credit card machines are a must for the twenty-first century and have advanced to be more effective for you and for your customers. About The Author: Alan Jason Smith is the owner of http://www.creditcardspdq.com which is a great place to find credit card links, resources and articles. For more information go to: http://www.creditcardspdq.com
Free ISP
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 03:12 AM PDT
The Ins and Outs of Free ISPs Yes, Virginia, there are companies that offer free Internet service. The common definition of an ISP is a company that provides Internet access, usually for some kind of fee. The amazing part is that there are actually ISP companies that provide free Internet access. I am not just making reference to the companies that send you discs in the mail that offer you free Internet service for only 30 days. These ISPs offer free Internet service all, the not, not just for a free trial. How can these companies afford to offer free Internet access, you ask? The answer is no great secret. Many free products are funded by a variety of advertising. A good example of this are the many sites that offer free MP3 downloads. However, as in the case of the free ISP's, these music download sites come with advertisements in the form of pop-ups. If you want free Internet service you must able to live with the advertising it comes with. It can often be annoying and a real nuisance that gets in your way when you are on the Internet. These pop-ups can also cause your computer to slow way down and even freeze up. An additional thing to be concerned about with free ISPs is that the service may not be free in your area. Ii is necessary to have a dial-up number in your area for these to be free. There may also be a limit to the time you can spend surfing the Internet. Most free ISPs do not have the kinds of features that are available with ISPs that you pay for. Commercial ISPs work hard to come up with new features for their customers to use, but the free ISPs don't generally do this. Free ISP's may also provide connection quality that is much poorer and has many more interruptions that commercial ISP's. If you still want an affordable ISP that has more features than a free ISP but costs less, you might already have the answer. Many of the free ISPS have other packages that offer more services at a low cost to you. This tactic of offering free Internet access has long been a way for ISPs to attract new customers. They are hopeful that a customer will like using the ISP, so that they will move to another service instead of going with a competitor. Always remember to read the terms and conditions of your ISP before accepting the agreement. Agreeing to free Internet access can be tricky. Make sure that the ISP really is offering the free Internet access you think they are. You also want to check on other things like any time limits, other service fees or if long distance charges will apply for you to go with any ISP. About The Author: Robert Michael is the owner of Best Broadband Review which is a great place to find Broadband Links, Resources and Articles. For more information go to: http://www.bestbroadbandreview.co.uk
Your Guide To Buying Security Cameras
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 03:12 AM PDT
Today's technology has made setting up security precautions such as security cameras a cinch! You no longer need to be a millionaire to set up one. You could even install one yourself! Security cameras provide a means for its owner to watch over his or her propery from the safety and convenience of any area he chooses. This type of system is a great deterrent to thievery and unwanted entry. Most organizations that have sensitive items or are off limits to the general public employ these cameras to help keep their places safe. Purchasing and implementing such a system may save your business from the terrors of illegal entry. Investment in such could save you a whole lot of trouble. Before purchasing a system, you will want to consider the following factors. Your needs Study your needs. The type of security measures installed will depend on your specific security needs. For example how large is the area you would like covered? How many cameras will it take to monitor this area? You must make sure the security camera system you will purchase can accommodate enough slots for expansion. Do you need audio too? Some camera systems have audio recording equipment as well so you can not only see what happens, but hear it as well. This is important in cases when you would like everything documented. However, this may be costly. Many establishments only require video records of their security. Also, you must ascertain whether you need to have your security cameras record in color or black and white. Color cameras are, of course, more sophisticated and show a clearer picture. However, they tend to be pricey. Color cameras might also not work in low-light situations. Consider the location of the cameras. Will the location be hard to set up a wiring system in? In that case, you may want to consider wireless security camera systems. However, these cameras must be in a place that is conducive to high quality broadcast. There must be no interference. They can, though, be moved around the area. They are a bit more flexible than their fixed-wire cousins. Will the camera system be for outdoor purposes? Cameras that monitor outdoor locations need special weatherproof housings and may not be recommended for extreme temperatures and various elements. Also those that may be vandalized must be protected against such. Also, you must take in consideration the lighting for an area. If your camera cannot record a scene due to bad lighting, you will end up with muddy images that won't help in your surveillance activities. Choose a security camera that has a good sensitivity to light. Also, try to illuminate such areas with external lighting. You must consider where the power sources will be located. Make sure they are well protected against the elements and from tampering. Consider the available methods for recording the images. You may use a variety of backup media. And with the advent of computer storage media, even the use of hard disks, compact discs, and DVDs can prove to be an inexpensive way to store your data. Installing a Security Camera System Most home security cameras require little wiring, but installation differs according to model. Here are the basic steps: 1. Survey the area to be monitored. Follow the instructions/manual that comes with your security camera product. Install the camera at a proper distance from the area to be surveyed. Cameras vary in the distances from which they focus, so it would do well to pay notice to such. 2. Secure the camera using proper mounts, etc. Make sure that if the camera you are to install should not be moved, its placing should be secure and tamper proof. 4. Connect the camera to the monitor according to the manufacturer's directions. Make sure the wiring is as hidden and as secure as possible. This will make it harder for vandals and thieves from damaging your wiring. 5. Fine tune your system. Make sure you optimize the images you receive from the camera. Set a maintenance plan and fail safe plans to employ in case your cameras break down. 6 Organize an archival system according to your needs. Backing up and recording your images are implemented here. About The Author: For more great surveillance info and advice check out: http://www.surveillanceadvisor.com
Good Charlotte
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 03:12 AM PDT
WALDORFWORLDWIDE GOOD CHARLOTTE GOOD CHARLOTTE, THE BOOK MOTIVATION PROCLAMATION EAST COAST ANTHEM THANK YOU MOM MY BROTHER'S PLACE THE YOUNG AND HOPELESS LIFESTYLES OF THE RICH AND THE FAMOUS PIRATES! WALDORFWORLDWIDE The twin brothers that make up the core of Good Charlotte were born on March 11, 1979 in the "middle-of-nowhere-suburbs", Waldorf, Maryland. The brothers, Joel and Benji Madden were turned on to music by their older brother, Josh. Their influences started with bands like Rancid, Minor Threat, the Cure and the Smiths. Benji started learning to play the guitar at 16 while Joel developed his vocal talent. GOOD CHARLOTTE After their bassist, Paul guitarist Billy joined the twins, Good Charlotte took their name from a children's book and played their first gig in a neighbor's basement for an audience of 20. Benji recalls, "We only played our own song so we weren't good enough to learn anyone else's songs!" GOOD CHARLOTTE, THE BOOK That children's book they took their name from has a similar theme to what they have come to represent, it's about a young girl that gets picked on by other kids because she is different. These guys know what it is to be outcasts. MOTIVATION PROCLAMATION The brothers dedicated themselves to their music, although they had almost no money for equipment and no connections in the industry. They cut their first demo, wrote their own bio, and began mailing packages off to a list of record companies obtained from a magazine. "I wrote this letter saying, we're Good Charlotte and if you sign us now it will be a lot cheaper than if you wait!" recalls Benji. "Our ignorance was kind of a blessing. We couldn't be discouraged by knowing too much about how the business really works." EAST COAST ANTHEM When the twins graduated high school in 1997, their mom presented them with two open airline tickets to California as a graduation present. "Some of our favorite bands like Green Day had started out at this East Bay club called 924 Gilman Street. So when we graduated, that summer we made a pilgrimage to visit the club. We'd never even been on a plane before, but we have an aunt in Berkeley who let us crash with her." This gave the band a whole new kind of outlook when they returned home to the east coast. THANK YOU MOM While living in Annapolis, Maryland, the band won a local contest, and their song "Can't Go On" was included on a sample CD of local area talent. This helped them attract the attention of a manager, and Lit offered a supporting slot on a series of sold-out East Coast dates. "We had no money, no transportation, and no way to do the gigs. Our mom was living in like a shed on a neighbor's property, and the only thing she really owned was a mini-van. She said, you guys take the mini-van to play the shows and I'll catch rides or walk to work. That just shows you how she's been there for us the whole time." "Thank You Mom" is a hidden track on their first album, about a minute after the last listed song, "Change". The song is a rich acoustic tune and shows where these "I'm so punky" rockers' hearts really are. MY BROTHER'S PLACE Despite their spiked hair and pierced exterior, "Good Charlotte" is a poppy-slightly-emo-punk sound that is clearly distinct from the rest of their peers and the fans have taken notice. You'll most likely never mistake them for anyone else. Their recent hit album, "The Young and the Hopeless" is a prime example of their punkrock-independent attitude. THE YOUNG AND HOPELESS Honesty is the thread that runs through every song on The Young and Hopeless and binds Good Charlotte to their devoted fans. "I don't think we're better than any other band," says Benji, "although I do think we're more sincere, more real, than some of them. We want to be judged for what we're really doing, not put in a genre with a bunch of other bands with which we have nothing in common." LIFESTYLES OF THE RICH AND THE FAMOUS "We have a lot more to say than some of the bands we're compared with, and I hope people will hear it on this album. The kids that we were, five years ago just want to give those kids something to help them through the day." "Our goals right now as a band are to make the music we want to make, and give our fans what they have given us - positivity, dedication, loyalty, hope, truth, and a place to belong. we really just feel like the luckiest guys in the world, cause after all we just fans too." - Joel Madden About The Author: To read more articles by Chad, visit the American Pop Culture Encyclopedia at: http://www.americanpopcultureencyclopedia.com. If you would like to read this article, or others like it, on American Pop Culture Encyclopedia, visit: http://www.americanpopcultureencyclopedia.com/good%20charlotte.htm
Bike Riding And Present Wrapping
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 03:11 AM PDT
A little examination of two behaviors, which are learned almost universally by all Americans, reveals some shocking information about the effectiveness of some of the teaching techniques that we choose to use to educate our children. In the last six months we have been conducting a little informal survey as we travel across America, and it has yielded some very interesting and very thought provoking data. We hope that sharing this information with you might stimulate some serious thought about what you choose to teach your children and especially some thought about some of the techniques that we all use in teaching life's important lessons to the next generation. During this six month time period we have asked literally tens of thousands of Americans if they know how to ride a bicycle and we have found only two women and one man whom cannot! We have also asked that same large sample of Americans if they wrapped presents at Christmas and gave them to loved ones, and we have found only thirteen men and seven women whom did not perform that loving task! (And it was not because they did not know how, but rather because they had decided not to for moral or religious reasons.) So, you say, what has amazed us about this data? Simply this… bike riding and present wrapping at Christmas are both learned behaviors! You are probably still saying, "so what?" Well, it appears to us that we, as a society, are doing a masterful job of teaching both of those behaviors with almost total universality! We have succeeded in teaching almost everyone in America to ride bikes and wrap presents at Christmas. And yet, we have left other, seemingly much more critical behaviors like honesty, integrity, teamwork, compassion, reliability, respect for private property, respect for diversity, diligence, love, manners, and many other critical behaviors, to be taught much less universally and much less effectively! It has occurred to us that it might be interesting to examine both of those behaviors (bike riding and present wrapping) to see why we are so successful in teaching those activities. And, more importantly, perhaps we could learn a little bit more about being more successful at teaching life's more critical lessons. How do we teach kids to ride bikes? They do not learn to ride bikes by reading a manual. They do not learn to ride a bike by listening to us talk about how to do it. And, they surely do not learn to ride a bike by watching us do it! Kids learn to ride a bike when we put them on the seat and turn them loose! They learn by experience and they want to learn because we paint such an exciting picture of how great it will be when they do learn. And what do we do when they tip over or fall down? We pick them up, dust them off, give them encouragement and instruction and put then we put them back on the seat to try again. Sometimes we might give them some training wheels or run along beside them to offer occasional assistance but the learning comes because they are on the seat with the handlebars in their hands. How well do you think that kids would do at learning to ride bikes, if the first time they fell off we ran to them, scolded them for falling off, and then told them how disappointed we were with their failure, took the bike away, grounded them for three weeks, and sent them to their rooms to think about how to ride a bike. Do you think that technique would bring about a society with only a few people in thousands who can not ride bikes? We sincerely doubt it. Why, then, do we think that we can teach responsibility by scolding kids, grounding them and taking away further chances for being responsible and sending them to their room? Shouldn't we "put 'em back on the seat?" Should we not "pick them up, dust them off, give them some encouragement and instruction in responsibility and then, as soon as possible, give them another chance to be responsible?" Should not a child who has acted cruelly to another child be given instruction in kindness, encouragement that we believe in their kind nature, and then, immediately be given another opportunity to be kind? Now, let's take a quick look at present wrapping and gift exchanging at Christmas. Why are we so successful at teaching this rather complex and wonderful act of love, kindness, joy, and sharing? We succeed at this task for many of the same reasons that we succeed in teaching kids to ride bikes… we let kids learn by experience. Even before they are old enough to understand much about what is happening to them, we begin letting them experientially know about gifts by giving them some. We continue to let them have experience by giving them gifts every year and then as soon as possible we let them experience the thrill of giving from the other side of the coin by helping them to wrap gifts for others. On top of all that experience, we make present wrapping into a huge pageant of excitement. We start counting down the days until the big day… "Only 72 shopping days left." Our whole society talks, with excitement and anticipation, about the Christmas spirit and the magic of the upcoming event. And, SURPRISE, they all end up gladly participating in the behavior every year. What if we, as a total society, were to celebrate ethnic diversity with the same degree of joy, ceremony, anticipation, and enthusiasm as we assign to giving gifts at Christmas? Interesting to ponder what might happen in the next generation. We believe that a simple adjustment in priorities by our society might bring about some amazing and welcome changes in the behavior of the youth in America. (Hey, it might even bring some welcome changes in adult behaviors.) We believe that we as parents, and as a society as a whole, can do this if we choose to, but communities like yours all across this great land must commit to it. What behaviors would you like to see being taught universally in your community? About The Author: Mac Bledsoe, founder and President of Parenting With Dignity®, lectures to parents organizations, youth groups, in schools and churches across America. Mr. Bledsoe and PWD have been featured on the TODAY Show, ABC's 20/20 show, and on numerous national and local radio and television programs. Visit PWD at: http://www.parentingwithdignity.com/
How To Improve Your Credit Score
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 03:11 AM PDT
If you have less than perfect credit, and you've ever tried
getting a loan or credit card, then you know just how much poor credit can cost you. So, the next step to getting yourself completely out of debt is learning how to clean up your credit file! Many people think that by paying on time they automatically have "perfect" credit. But that's not always true - if you have too much credit available to you if can hurt your credit, even if you don't use all of it. So can having high credit card balances, even if you pay on time every month. You Can Repair Your Credit Also, most people think - incorrectly - that once something bad goes on your credit report, it will automatically stay there for a long time. That's not always true, either. Fortunately, there are ways to remove even the MOST damaging items on your credit report...and to do it legally and honestly! Keep in mind that debt negotiation does go on your credit report, and it can lower your credit score. And that's where credit repair comes in. The first step is to get a copy of your credit report. Even if you THINK you have perfect credit, it's still a good idea to get a copy of your credit report every year and check it carefully. Because statistics show there's a good chance you'll find AT LEAST one negative item on your credit report! But, just because you do find some negative items on your credit report does NOT mean your credit is automatically ruined forever! There is nothing written in stone saying you must pay for your mistakes for the rest of your life - yet there ARE rules that require creditors to remove incorrect and damaging items from your credit report. All you need to know is HOW to get them removed! How To Repair Your Credit One option is to hire a credit repair company. Unfortunately, there are a lot of credit repair companies out there that will charge you an arm and a leg. Some even use illegal tactics. So, if you decide to hire someone else to repair your credit, please BE CAREFUL! Ask lots of questions. And do lots of research. Fortunately, there are ways to repair your credit on your own. Once you know how to do it, credit repair is NOT that difficult at all. It does take some work, especially if you have a lot of negative items. But even the worst credit can be repaired if you do it correctly - and you keep trying. Credit repair is not an overnight process, so it's a good idea to get started cleaning up your credit as soon as possible. Everyone makes mistakes, especially when it comes to money. But you DON'T have to keep paying for those mistakes forever! About The Author: Kris Bickell is the owner of Debt-Tips.com, a helpful site for consumers struggling with credit card debt. For tips on getting out of debt, repairing your credit, saving money, and making extra money online, sign up for the free "Get Out Of Debt Faster" email course at: http://www.Debt-Tips.com/course.html. © 2005 Debt-Tips.com
Color Determines The Tone Of Your Flowers Arrangements
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 03:11 AM PDT
Color is influential in every aspect of our lives. It conveys a warm or cool feeling and can draw you in or divert attention. It can create feelings of cheerfulness, sadness, love or tranquility. In flower arranging knowing how to blend colors together can make or break your design so careful thought should go into your choice of colors before you start. Flowers come in an astounding number of hues and shades due to continual crossbreeding. This is the most true in roses. There are well over a hundred different types of roses now of every shade imaginable and counting. They have even been bred now to have two or three different shades on the petals and are fast becoming a new favorite for florists and customers alike. If you are new to arranging or still struggle with how to put color together, take heart, there is help in the form of what's called the color wheel. It is made up of primary colors, secondary colors and intermediate colors. The first thing one needs to understand, is that the primary colors are only three colors, red, blue and yellow. All colors are made from combining these colors but you cannot make red, blue or yellow by combining any colors. Red is a very hot, passionate and strong color. It creates drama in an arrangement. Red can make you think of Christmas or valentines. Yellow is a happy color and evokes a feeling of anticipation like you experience when spring has arrived and the sun is shinning and things are coming back to life. Birthday arrangements or baby arrangements often have yellow as it does evoke that feeling of cheerfulness. Blue is a cool color and creates a softer feeling like you may experience when looking at the sky in the summertime. Combining primary colors together creates secondary colors. Red and yellow make orange, red and blue make purple and yellow and blue make green. Orange is a dramatic color, not as hot as red but it still has impact. If you want an arrangement to have the autumn feel then you should combine colors such as browns, gold or a bit of yellow and red-orange together. It will make a bold statement. Purple is a vibrant color but unlike red and orange it has a calming effect. When you combine purple, blues, pinks and a bit of yellow together, you get this luscious vibrant and soothing arrangement. Green is a universal color that goes with any color of arrangement. In nature all flowers spring up from greens so it is very natural to use them in all arrangements. In fact, I like to put together three different shades and textures of greens together before putting any flowers in my arrangement. It is very effective. You can take any of these color combinations and put them together in their lighter or darker shades depending on what mood you are trying to create. Also, you do not need to stick to just these color combinations. If you want drama, try mixing together dark red, purple, yellow and a bit of white. Contrast can make quite a bold statement. Last but not least here is a list of colors on the color wheel starting with yellow: Yellow orange, orange, red orange, red, red violet, violet, blue violet, blue, blue green, green, and finally yellow green. Of course you could make many more hues but for our purpose here we stick with the color wheel. I hope this helps. About The Author: Willie Jones, http://www.artinspires.com Willie is a freelance writer, researcher and artist. She not only designs floral arrangements but likes to surround herself with floral motivational posters. When art inspires, dreams become reality!
Denia In Spain And Its Enchantments
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 03:10 AM PDT
Denia, on the Costa Blanca of Spain has always been strategically located on the skirt of the Montgo hills, dominated by a castle which was once an Arab fortress, right on the Mediterranean Sea. Dianium was its first name given to it by the Romans owing to the fact that there was a temple nearby which had been dedicated to Diana. The Greeks seem to be the first tourists in 6 B.C. and staying for a while because of its climate, very similar to that of Greece, giving it the name of Hemeroscopeion. But as we have seen in many other places in Spain, the Arabs were the ones who stayed the longest and who really populated the area, converting it in the capital of the region of the Caliph of Cordoba. After the expulsion of the Moors, this city suffered terribly both economically and in population. But it made its comeback with the production and exportation of raisins, mainly to England. But unfortunately this has decreased considerably both in Denia ( http://www.alicante-spain.com/denia.html ) as well as in Javea. But a city does not die out that easily and it has made itself into an important tourist area. Dianium, better known as Denia Other than having been renovated and made into a modern city dealing with a large number of tourists who are looking for cheap flights and good hotels, Denia has still conserved its old quarters and neighbourhoods such as Les Roques found at the bottom of the castle, The Baix la Mar ( down near the sea) located in the fishermen's neighbourhood or the Cross Square ( Plaza de la Creu) where you can rest for awhile to have a snack , lunch or dinner while you glance at the Mediterranean Sea. Along the Cervantes Promenade you can find terraced cafeterias or restaurantes where it is very typical to eat 'tapas' or small portions of seafood, ham or different omelettes and refresh your dry mouth with cold Spanish beer or delicious wines. You can even try typical dishes from other cities or surrounding towns like Torrevieja, Altea, Murcia and Calpe. But being as these places are not very far away, and the scenery is quite nice, it would be recommendable to do a car hire and go for seeing is believing. Back to the old quarters where the Mayor and Loreto streets are, you will see pretty neolassical buildings which belong to the upper Valencian class people. The Town Hall dates to the 17th century, the Saint Mary Assumption Church on Vila Vella street goes back to the 16th c. There are also two museums- The Archaeological Museum which has a great number of remains of all the different cultures which has invaded this area and can be seen at the same time as you acquire your entrance ticket to the castle. It is open from 10 to 1'30 and from 5 til 8, closed on Thursdays. And the Ethnological Museum on Cavallers Street no. 1 which deals with the times when the raisin business was at its best. It is open from 10'30 to 1 and from 4 until 7, closing on Mondays and Sunday afternoons. Fun in the Sun in Denia One of the most looked for characteristics of this big town is its beaches and coves. Heading towards the south to a rocky coastal area called Les Rotes, there is a group of small coves where scuba-diving and fishing fans hang out. To the north of the town, the there are sandy beaches like Els Palmars or las Marinas and not very deep waters- ideal for family outings. Other than the well known Fallas, also done in denia and the Moor and Christian parade, Denia has a very original feast honouring its patron saint ( Santisima Sangre ) the first 15 days in July called ' Bulls into the water'. Where else can you become a bullfighter overnight? Denia like many other coastal towns can give you full satisfaction with all your holidays needs. About The Author: Robert Carlton released a lot of articles for http://www.alicante-spain.com a website on the spanish Costa Blanca and Alicante region. Amongst his works he is publishing about topics from Denia http://www.alicante-spain.com/denia.html to local spanish cuisine and travel tips.
Today's Timeshares Provide Flexibility And Variety
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 03:10 AM PDT
Owning a timeshare used to mean traveling to the same resort,
at the same time, year after year. No more! That concept of timeshare is now outdated. Thankfully, timeshares are increasingly more hip to the needs of today's customers, who want more flexibility and variety from their vacations. Whether you want to turn your vacation week into 2 or 3 trips, visit other resorts throughout the globe, go on boat cruises through the Caribbean or Alaska, take advantage of numerous vacation offerings or simply extend your vacation stay, today's timeshares can easily match your vacation style. Many properties provide these benefits, so we'd like to share some of this information with you. Please look it over. The more informed you become, the better your vacation! Whether you're a seasoned timeshare owner or a prospective first-time buyer, here's a smattering of the types of timeshare benefits you can discover: Vacation Points "Getaways" Fractional Timeshares Multiple Vacation Resorts Floating vs. Fixed Time Vacation Points--- Instead of offering fixed one-week vacation increments, points programs such as RCI Points provide members increased flexibility and diversity. With vacation points, members have the added freedom of reserving partial weeks into several two, three or four night increments at different resorts throughout the club's network. RCI's Points program gives members access to more than 3,700 resorts worldwide. The amount of points you use per vacation depends upon the resort, the size of the unit, the season and the number of nights you stay. Based upon the amount of points you own, you choose when you're going to travel, where you want to stay, how many rooms you'll need and for how long. Locations can be anywhere in the world from Egypt, Morocco, Brazil, Costa Rica, France and Israel or right at your own backdoor. Resorts also vary from Colorado's breathtaking mountain views to Florida's sandy beaches, and many more luxurious and exotic places. With points, the variety of your vacations is endless. You can even use RCI points on anything from airline tickets and rental cars to theme park admission. Getaways--- Maximize your vacations without even exchanging your existing timeshare weeks! Here's a nice feature of timeshare ownership! When you buy a resale timeshare you may already know that you're eligible to join exchange companies like RCI or Interval International (II), which allow you to deposit your home resort week for weeks at other resorts throughout the world. But did you know that these exchange companies also offer timeshare owners "getaway" deals throughout the year? You simply buy these getaways from the exchange companies without exchanging your week. If you're eager for some extra vacations, on a short-term notice, you might discover anything from a week at the Marriott's Grand Vista in Orlando for $199 to a three day getaway in the Poconos. II allows you to take up to 12 getaways a year and RCI has no limit. Fractional Timeshares --- Extend your stay in paradise! Sometimes it's possible to purchase 12 weeks at a particular resort. The quarter rotates from year to year. As an owner, you can stay longer at a place you love, rent out any surplus weeks, bank the extra weeks with an exchange company to use for stays at other resorts, or do a combination of them all. Multiple Vacation Resorts (Non-points)--- This type of ownership is like owning at 7 or more resorts and you can travel between them without the need of an exchange company! Or, if you like, you can use RCI or II and exchange to properties that aren't affiliated with your club! At any time, we have multiple vacation resorts within our inventory and each has its finer points. Perennial Vacation Club, or World Intl. Vacation Club are two such resorts. Floating vs. Fixed Time --- To float or not to float... For those of you who can't or won't plan ahead each year, float time makes sense, since you can choose from the dates available within a particular season. You're not locked into a particular week, so you simply call and make a reservation. As a fixed week owner, you won't need to request a reservation, since you already know exactly where your week falls on the calendar. Need to travel during a specific time? Fixed weeks are the way to go. And, if you can't travel during your fixed time, you can always exchange your week for a different time of year, but you'll have to pay an exchange fee. Trading your timeshare for comparable timeshares is a wonderful way to travel and see the world! About The Author: Holly Day writes for the travel industry and the Holiday Group http://www.holidaygroup.com. For low cost vacation ownership abd more great information on timeshare exchanges see: http://www.holidaygroup.com/exchange.php
Bring Your Web Site to Life With PHP
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 03:10 AM PDT
Bring Your Web Site to Life With PHP
By Shelley Lowery PHP: Hypertext Preprocessor, better known as PHP, is a highly popular, server-side scripting language that can be embedded directly into HTML coding. PHP can do anything that CGI can do, such as process form data and auto generate dynamic content, but PHP can do much more. It can be used on all major operating systems and supports most web servers. PHP is used by inserting PHP code inside your web page's HTML code. When the page is called, your server automatically executes the code. What's more, your visitors don't need any special plug-ins for the code to run, as it will be displayed just like your HTML coding. As PHP is a server-side scripting language, although your visitors will not need to install any new software, PHP must be set up on your server. Following is a very simple script that will test your server to ensure PHP is installed. It is a standard PHP function called phpinfo, which instructs the browser to print out information in regard to the set up of your server. To use the script, simply copy the following three lines of code and paste them into a plain text editor, such as Note Pad. Note: To enable the code to display properly, a period has been added following the opening bracket. You'll need to remove this period prior to using the code. <.? phpinfo(); ?> Save the file as phpinfo.php and upload it to your server where you store your HTML files. To run the script, simply point your browser to the script address. It should look something like this: http://www.yourdomain.com/phpinfo.php If PHP is installed on your server, you will be presented with a page of information about the PHP installed on your server. If PHP isn't installed, you will be prompted to download the file. In this case, you'll need to contact your web host and ask them to install it, as it is free to download and install. You can learn more about PHP and download it at http://www.PHP.net. If you'd like to try some PHP scripts on your site, here are some great scripts to get you started: PhpAdsNew - Rotating Ads http://phpadsnew.com/two/ If you'd like to have a rotating ad system on your web site, this great script is an open-source ad server that provides a professional ad management and tracking system. Not only can you rotate banner ads, but you can also rotate buttons, pop-ups, text ads, DHTML banners and much more. PHP Message/Quote of the Day http://www.interaction-design.org/scripts/quote_of_the_day/ If you're looking for a simple way to display a "Quote of the Day," this script is for you. It consists of a simple script that's easy to customize. You simply add any number of quotes, tips or whatever you'd like, into the database and the script will display a new message each day. BMachine - Blogging http://boastology.com/ Would you like to start your own blog? This script will enable you to do just that. It's loaded with features, including calendar, file attachments, event display, unlimited categories, IP blocking, referrer tracking, search and much more. Clicks Counter Pro - Link Tracking http://www.clicks-counter-pro.com/ Testing and tracking your marketing strategies is an important part of doing business. Clicks Counter Pro is a PHP script that will enable you to track your clicks, downloads and advertising campaigns with real time statistics. Very reasonably priced. Link Department - Link Indexing http://www.hitcode.com/products/linkdept/ If you've ever wanted an easy way to set up a link indexing system on your site, this script may be your answer. Link Department will enable you to easily create and maintain a link directory. The system is fully manageable and completely template driven, so it will easily blend in with your existing design. PhpDig - Search Utility http://www.phpdig.net/ If you would like to enable your visitors to search your site, PhpDig is a web spider and search engine utility you can install on your web site. This powerful script indexes your pages and builds a glossary of keywords found in the page. PhpBB - Bulletin Board http://www.phpbb.com/ PhpBB is a fast and efficient, highly customizable, open- source bulletin board system. This highly professional looking system will enable you to create an interactive community on your web site and keep your visitors coming back again and again. To learn more about PHP, visit the following web sites: http://www.alt-php-faq.org/ http://www.hotscripts.com/PHP/ To find more PHP scripts, visit the following web sites: http://www.hotscripts.com/PHP/Scripts_and_Programs/index.html http://php.resourceindex.com/Complete_Scripts/ PHP is a freely distributed open-source language, which means if you would like to learn the language, there is a wealth of information available on the Internet to assist you. Why not give it a try? You may be surprised how easy it really is to write your own scripts. Copyright © Shelley Lowery About the Author: Shelley Lowery is the author of the acclaimed web design course, Web Design Mastery. http://www.webdesignmastery.com And, eBook Starter -- Give your ebooks the look and feel of a REAL book. http://www.ebookstarter.com Visit Web-Source.net to sign up for a complimentary subscription to Etips and receive a copy of Shelley's acclaimed ebook, "Killer Internet Marketing Strategies." http://www.web-source.net
Could Your Income Survive A Hurricane?
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 03:08 AM PDT
As you know, Hurricane Katrina has caused destruction and devastation across several states. Hundreds of thousands of people have been displaced and are unable to work since the storm. Businesses have been closed for weeks. The economical impact is unimaginable. No one knows what the effects will be — weeks, months, even years from now. How would weeks, or months, of lost income affect your family? This event is another solid reminder of how important it is to develop passive income — the kind of income where you keep making money whether you are working or not. If and when events happen to keep you from work – whether they are wonderful interruptions, such as the birth of a new baby, or tragic events like a hurricane, you'll continue to have money coming in. There are several ways to set up passive income streams. Start a website (or several websites) Set up your own money-maker. Whether your interest is in selling a product, providing information, or a service, every business needs an online presence. If you're uncomfortable with technology, there are site builders available that will walk you through every step of the way. Or, if you want to avoid maintaining a website, many people are making decent money from blogs. Join Affiliate Programs Research and join any of the wonderful affiliate programs selling anything from books to bras. If you're unfamiliar with affiliate programs, it's really quite a simple concept. Thousands of companies will pay you to refer customers to them. Whether your interest is sports or doilies, you can make money by linking to products from your website or blog. Make your own info products and get affiliates to sell for you Create an electronic product (write an ebook, design software, or record an audio product). Once you've created your product, recruit affiliates to sell for you! And, of course, Direct Sales If you are in a Direct Sales business, build your customer base and your team and you'll have residual income, too. Build your team both wide and deep for the most security. Once you know which path you're going to follow, then it's critical that you automate your Business. Set up an autoresponder, so your messages are being sent whether you are home or not. You can automate e-courses and newsletters - all running at the same time, automatically. Your autoresponder can be your best customer service rep. Make sure your autoresponder sends clients a thank you email as soon as they place an order – and another email a week after placing their order – just to check in. You'll be providing excellent customer service, and your customer won't know that their thoughtful customer service response is really an automated reply. Are you making money when you are not working? Is your income protected, for the times when "life happens"? If not, my challenge to you is to do one thing to get on the road to making passive income today! About The Author: Nicole Dean is the mostly-sane Mom behind http://www.showmomthemoney.com/free-tutorial.htm - helping WAHMs Succeed. Are you looking for some great affiliate programs to join? Check out our Free Affiliate Program Directory (link to http://www.showmomthemoney.com/affiliates.asp)
Care For Your Small Dog With These Big-Impact Tips
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 03:08 AM PDT
Basic small dog care is much the same as for larger dogs, but owners need to make a few adjustments to best meet their small dog's needs. Consider the following daily dog care routines, and how they're adapted to meet the needs of your pint-sized pup. Feeding Your Small Dog Naturally you're going to feed your dog daily, but the standard-size kibble at the grocery store may be too large for your small dog to eat comfortably. You'll need to be sure to buy a kibble designed to fit his smaller mouth (these are easy to find among the premium dog food brands). Canned soft foods are also perfectly suitable for your small dog. Containing Your Small Dog All dogs need exercise and a safe place to potty outdoors, and a fenced-in yard provides all the security they need, right? Not necessarily when it comes to small dogs. A fence that adequately holds a bigger dog may have gaps large enough for a small dog to fit between or under, allowing him to escape. Fences also can't provide overhead protection from large hawks, which sadly have been known to carry small dogs and puppies away. A covered kennel run might better meet your small dog's needs. Training Your Small Dog Small dogs aren't any harder to train than large dogs, yet the consensus of many pet experts is that many of them end up spoiled. No matter if he fits in a purse or a pocket, your small dog still sees the world in terms of pack behavior, and if you're not leading the pack, he is. It's a wise idea to make sure your small dog is thoroughly housetrained, no matter how small and inconsequential the mess might seem when he misses. Dog experts also suggest you make your small dog work for you, to keep him responsive to your rules. Have him sit or do tricks before you give him a tasty treat or even his meal. Grooming Your Small Dog Small dog care includes some special grooming needs you'll need to keep in mind. Small dogs require more frequent nail trimming than larger dogs, because they typically spend less time on rough surfaces wearing them down. You'll also need to brush your small dog's teeth twice a week if you're feeding a soft canned food diet. As you can see, small dog care largely follows the same route as care for any other sized dog. The differences may seem like minor details, but paying attention to them can make a big impact when it comes to meeting your small dog's special needs. About The Author: Blake Kritzberg is proprietor of Poodle-oo, your source for small dog clothes. Stop by for small dog couture and home decor, designer dog collars, leather dog leashes and the Small Dog Blog. http://www.poodle-oo.com
GPS Vehicle Tracking
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 03:07 AM PDT
GPS monitors have a multitude of legitimate uses, but have also generated controversy as they further diminish privacy. Some customers of car rental companies have complained that their movements have been tracked without their consent by the installation of GPS vehicle tracking systems in rental vehicles. However, the positive uses of this technology have, at least so far, outweighed the negatives. Fitness enthusiasts use GPS tracking devices to measure distances remaining in marathons, and back-country hikers use them to prevent themselves from getting lost (or to facilitate rescue if they already are). Police can enforce restraining orders and parole conditions by stopping criminals from stalking victims and being in neighborhoods (such as near playgrounds) where they are forbidden. Lost and stolen vehicles can be located with the touch of a button. Parents can use GPS vehicle tracking to check on teenagers' driving habits to make sure these inexperienced drivers are not speeding or otherwise endangering themselves and their passengers. And GPS in-car navigation systems can guide drivers through unfamiliar terrain to their destination. Information Loggers (Passive Tracking) These basic systems are for companies or individuals who seeking a record of an asset's or even person's whereabouts during a given time period, without the ability or cost of real-time tracking. These are useful for fleet management. GPS vehicle tracking eliminates moonlighting with company vehicles. It reduces accidents and lowers insurance premiums by promoting safe employee driving habits. GPS vehicle tracking creates reports of miles driven by each vehicle. Fleet management will reduce the company fuel bill and increase miles driven per gallon of fuel. Some GPS systems even have maintenance modules to inform the fleet manager when each vehicle is due for an oil change or tire rotation. Real Time (Active Tracking) This allows the user to watch the progress of the persons or assets travelling in real-time from their PC. This option is more expensive because of the costs of devices, programs and air-time charges for communication between the PC and the asset. It is used, for instance, by a taxi company to dispatch the closest available vehicle to a customer. In Europe,some of the most popular in-car tracking systems are the Tom-Tom Navigator, Magellan Roadmate, Navman and Garvin. They range in price from five hundred to a thousand dollars, depending on what features are chosen by the user. TomTom GO 300 offers the most easy-to use GPS system of travel planning throughout the UK. This award winning private navigation program is a portable, cable-less design that fits in any briefcase, handbag or even backpack. TomTom GO 300 is ideal for any car driver. It is easy to install, just plug in, switch on and drive away. There is no need for a PC link, in fact no technical knowledge is needed at all. It fits simply into the included car mounting kit, which is easily attached to the car dashboard or windshield. It is extremely easy to opertate: just turn it on and users can instantly access all the programs, maps and colour 3D navigation views, as well as voice-guided instructions in their chosen language. It has a touch screen interface to avoid fumbling with multiple buttons or extra devices while sitting in traffic. The touch screen is totally intuitive and the entire route can be planned with just a couple of screen taps. The features of this user-friendly system along with its relatively low price (around 700 dollars) has made it a hit with consumers. Others, such as the Magellan Roadmate, are slightly more difficult to use but also come with a database of maps and local attractions such as restaurants. In North American, the most popular brands are Garmin and Magellan. Selecting the Right GPS Unit for Your Needs: Handheld vs Dash-Mounted When selecting between a handheld unit versus a dash-mounted unit for your vehicle, consider whether you may want to use it for any other purpose, such as boating or camping. Pros and Cons of Dash-Mounted GPS Units Advantages Larger screens with better resolution which are simple to read at a glance even in poor lighting conditions More sophisticated models have features such route recalculation if the driver diverges from the planned route Larger buttons for ease of operation while driving Unit is securely attached to your vehicle to thwart theft Some units have voice instructions that communicate distance, street names, and direction of the next turn thus keeping the driver's eyes on the road instead of on the screen No batteries needed, runs off car battery Address lookup capabilities Some units have a individual address book to store locations for quick and simple search Advanced mapping capabilities Better reception outside the city Boosts car resale value Disadvantages Difficult to remove from vehicle if you decide to use it elsewhere Larger footprint in/on dashboard Too large for use by bikers, kayakers or hikers. More expensive Hopefully this advice will help you find the best unit for your needs among all the different GPS vehicle tracking units available. About The Author: Frank Hague does not have a GPS vehicle tracking device yet. http://www.gps-vehicle-tracking.info
Zero Down Mortgage Loans - Is 100% Financing A Good Idea And Can You Get Approved?
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 03:07 AM PDT
Are you wondering if you can get approved for a home loan with 100% financing? Are you also wondering if its a good idea to get a mortgage loan with no money down? Here are some points to keep in mind as you apply and consider your different mortgage loan options. To qualify for 100% financing on a purchase mortgage loan, it would be important for you to have a credit score of at least 600 or higher. If you are between 600-650 on your credit rating, you may need to go through a subprime mortgage lender in order to get 100% financed. If your credit score is higher than 650, you can probably apply with most mortgage lending companies online and be able to get an approval. If your credit score is between 580-600, you will probably need at least 5% down to make the loan work with a subprime mortgage lender. Getting a mortgage loan with 100% financing can sometimes mean a higher rate. Sometimes an alternative is to get an 80/20 loan, which is a first and second mortgage, with the first mortgage being at a lower rate and the second mortgage being at a higher interest rate. The benefit to doing this type of loan is that it eliminates the need for PMI insurance, which can be $100 or more a month, depending on the size of your loan. Also, consider getting quotes for 100% financing and then quotes for 95% financing, with you putting 5% down. See, if the savings on the interest rate is worth putting the money down. To view our list of recommended mortgage lenders online who can provide 100% financing for good and bad credit, visit this page: http://www.abcloanguide.com/mortgageloans.shtml. About The Author: Carrie Reeder is the owner of http://www.abcloanguide.com, an informational website about various types of loans.
Defensive Driving: The Need We All Have
by
Mnet
on Sun 16 Oct 2005 03:07 AM PDT
Defensive driving is quite an important thing that we have. People simply need to know that while you can control your own actions most of the time, you cannot control or know what is happening with other drivers. Defensive driving courses offer a wealth of information for people who are looking for solutions to prevent accidents and problems from happening. So, what is defensive driving all about? It is a method of driving in which you take every possible precaution that you can to prevent problems from happening. This method of driving is an excellent way to keep you and your family safe. Here are some of the rules of defensive driving: ? Its starts by being prepared. Checking such things as tire pressure and oil, gas, and water levels before leaving are important. You will want to check mirrors, seats as well as make sure that you have all the insurance and other documentation that you need before heading out. ? Never display or react to road rage. ? Purchasing bright colored cars can also help you. The purchase of a red, orange, yellow or other brightly colored car can help you to be seen. Unlike light colored cars that are more difficult to be seen, bright colored ones are less likely to be in an accident. ? Always use your headlights. ? When driving, make sure that you use the three-second rule. This states that you should be at least three seconds of driving time behind the driver in front of you at all times. In bad conditions, it should be five seconds. ? To make sure that you can see clearly, never follow too closely behind large trucks. ? Avoid the blind spot of other cars by not driving in those spots for every long. ? In fact, try to drive without anyone next to you at all times so that if you need to get off the road quickly, you can. ? Avoid cars that are broken down or show signs of being damaged. Studies show that these cars are often driven by bad drivers. These are only a few of the defensive driving rules that are out there. You will find a wide range of them as well as places to take defensive driving classes on the web. About The Author: For more information please see http://www.defensive-driving-help.co.uk |
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