Barbecue Ribs - Competition Style in Your Backyard
by Bill Anderson
Great barbeque recipes are hard to come by. Most recipes and books leave out important information like times and temperatures. In our book, �Competition BBQ Secrets�, we give you all the details on how to cook professional competition quality meats. And... guess what? You can do it to in your back yard. You don�t need a fancy $2000 offset smoker. Just use your Weber kettle grill!...
Prepping your grill
Just about everybody has a Weber kettle charcoal grill in their back yard. You can smoke some pretty good ribs on these things. This is one of my favorite barbeque recipes because I can use mesquite wood and Lee will not allow me to put mesquite in his expensive Lang Smoker because of the residue it leaves on the inside surfaces. Anyway... here�s how to set up your charcoal grill so that you are �offset smoking� and not grilling... I simply start it up by making two piles of charcoal briquettes on opposite sides of the grill (away from the center). Make sure your vents on the bottom of the grill are open and not clogged with ashes. I then squirt my lighter fluid on the briquettes and light them.
Start soaking your wood chips at least an hour before you will need them. I make sure the charcoal is white before I start smoking so that all the lighter fluid has burnt up and does not give your meat a lighter fluid taste. If you want to use a charcoal chimney to start your charcoal, that�s OK too - some people hate using lighter fluid. Just dump your �white� charcoal from the chimney on opposite sides of the grill when they are ready. You can place a disposable aluminum pan between your charcoal piles and fill it with about an inch of warm water or beer if you want.
Prepping your ribs
You can either buy spareribs or what is called loin back ribs. If you buy the big spareribs, cut the brisket end off the ribs at the joint. Then trim the skirt meat off. Don�t throw this away - you can cook it separately and eat it too. You also want to pull the membrane off the back side of the ribs. If you want, you can put your favorite dry rub on both sides of your ribs at this time. I prefer the more natural taste of the smoked meat with a little BBQ sauce, so I do not apply any rub or any other seasonings before smoking. That�s the great thing about barbecue recipes... you can change them up to suit your liking! Just don�t change the �technique� too much.
Let�s start smoking
When you are ready to start smoking, place your grate on the grill so that the holes near the handles are over your charcoal piles. This way, you can add charcoal as needed to maintain your heat. Some newer models have hinged grates for this purpose.
Now all you do is place your meat in the center of the grate - away from the charcoal piles. When I smoke ribs, I use a rib rack on top of the grate. Weber makes a good rib rack and you can get one at any good store that sells Weber grills. Place your trimmed pieces anywhere not directly over the coals. Throw some soaked mesquite chips directly on the charcoal and close the lid (don�t overdo the mesquite chips - mesquite imparts a strong smoke taste so a little goes a long way). Feel free to used soaked hickory, pecan, oak, apple, or any other �flavor� of wood chips that suits your taste buds. This is another way to personalize your barbeque recipes... there are all different types of woods and wood combinations that you can use. There are even unique and exotic woods like grape vine. I personally like mesquite as I feel it is the only smoke flavor that will not get covered up by your sauce. If done right, it�s not overpowering, but you can still taste that delicious smoke flavor.
Open the vents on the lid all the way and insert a thermometer through one of the vent holes. This is important! I use one of those confection/deep fry style thermometers with the clip and long stem on it. It�s important to measure the temperature as close to the meat as possible. Smoke your ribs at 230 - 240 deg F. If the temperature is too high (around 300 deg) for the first 30 minutes, don�t worry about it too much. If it gets any hotter than 300 deg then crack the lid a little to let some heat escape. When the temperature gets too low, just open the lid and toss in a few new briquettes and/or soaked wood chips. Try to stay �ahead of the game� as far as heat is concerned because it�s easier to cool down a hot smoker than it is to get it back up to temperature if your fire goes out.
Cook the ribs for 3 hours. Don�t open the lid unless absolutely necessary - remember, �if you�re looking, you ain�t cooking�. While you are adding charcoal, you can also spray the ribs with apple juice to keep them moist. After 3 hours, take your ribs off and wrap tightly in foil and return to the grill for one more hour.
Ready for glazing
After one hour in the foil, take your ribs out of the foil and place back on the grill. You�ll know your ribs are getting done when the meat is pulling away from the bone - this is a sure sign that your ribs are getting done. Maybe gently tug on one of the bones to see if it is �loose�. Also... if you pick up one end of a slab with a pair of tongs and your slab bends down 90�, then that is another sign that your ribs are getting done. Barbeque recipes are not an exact science... you have to use some common sense. If it�s cold outside, or humid, or dry your times and temps may vary. Just keep an eye on things and increase or decrease times accordingly.
After removing from the foil, apply your favorite BBQ sauce and glaze the ribs for one more hour. You can cut your BBQ Sauce with honey to make a sweet glaze if that is what you like. Apply your glaze to both sides and flip after 15 minutes and reapply glaze after each 15 minutes. After one hour of glazing, let your ribs rest for at least 15 minutes and then slice between each bone. You are now ready to sink your teeth into some of the best ribs you have ever tasted! Mouth watering, tender, and falling off the bone good!
About The Author
Types of Green Chai Tea
Types of Green Chai Tea
by Colin Holcomb
Many different types of tea are consumed by people around the world. For centuries Europeans have been drinking tea and for millennia Asians have been drinking green tea. The main producers and exporters of green tea throughout the world include China, Argentina, Japan, Malaysia, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Malawi, Sri Lanka, Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Tanzania. Green tea is available in many flavors, one of which is green chai tea.
Many wonder what the fad about green chai tea is. Basically the original green tea from eastern countries has nothing to do with green chai tea. Western marketing firms created it in the 21st century. The word chai originated in the first place when the tea was different from the original green tea from India.
Westernized Chai
In several languages �chai� means tea and started in the Indian language. Chimney, chai, masala chai, milk chai and several others are the most famous chais in India. India is actually the origin of the original green chai tea, where it was typically served at houses and chai stops all over the country without milk. The addition of honey and sugar can enhance this particular green chai tea. For inspiration many western companies probably looked to this tea and decided to commercialize green teas because of their popularity. Soon they were added to the roster of products sold in western countries like the United States.
Green chai tea is now famous everywhere in the western world and is an alternative to coffee for many people who want a healthy drink that will help keep them fit without have to go to the east. Single-serve and ready to drink tea lattes are the most common forms. Day by day the green chai tea industry is growing strong as time goes by. This is because people are becoming more concerned with their food intake and health. They find that green tea derivatives fit the bill since they burn their fat or cholesterol and help boost their energy levels.
Kashmir green chai tea, spicy tea latte, organic green chai tea are just a few of the various flavors that green chai tea comes in. They are very high in antioxidants just like the original teas and are extremely useful to the bodies immune systems. They can last for a long time since they are well packed so they are both economical to purchase and healthy.
About The Author
Thai Cookery in a Nutshell
Thai Cookery in a Nutshell
by Liz Canham
Thailand is situated in South East Asia, lying south of China and bordered by Burma, Laos and Kampuchea from west to east, with Malaysia to the south. The South China Sea is to the east and the Indian Ocean to the west.
Thai food has been influenced over time by its Chinese, Malaysian and Indian neighbours and has evolved into a very distinctive style of its own.
The contrasting flavours of hot, sweet, salty and sour and the unusual combinations of fruit, chicken, meat and fish or seafood make this a truly fascinating cuisine.
A normal meal for a family of reasonable income will consist of rice, which is the country's staple food, together with a soup or similar, a stir-fried dish and a salad, all served at the same time. In the north of Thailand, pork and strong curries are popular, with the meat cooked in large pieces, whereas gentler coconut milk flavours the southern curries and the meat is chopped quite small.
In curries, traditional Indian ingredients such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom and cloves are used in very small quantities but many of the flavourings and spices differ considerably from those found in Indian and Chinese cuisine. The most commonly used of these are:
Galangal - A root or rhizome which looks similar to ginger, but with a flavour all of its own. It can be bought fresh, powdered or dried in slices but fresh is best.
Lemon grass - As its name suggests, this has a lemony flavour but it looks somewhat like a fresh bamboo shoot. The outer leaves are very tough and should be peeled away, but even the inner core is fairly hard and needs to be sliced very finely for cooking or even grinding.
Kaffir lime leaves - These are the leaves of a Far Eastern lime, similar to a Western one but with a knobbly skin. The rind is also used in Thai cookery.
Fish sauce - This is called Nam Pla in Thailand and is made from salted fish or prawns. It is a pale brown liquid used much as soy sauce is in Chinese cookery.
Shrimp paste - Made from fermented shrimp, this can be bought in small pots. Use sparingly as it has a very strong flavour.
Chilli paste - A combination of chillies and fried shallots mixed with sugar and tamarind, it can be bought in jars and may be hot, medium or mild in flavour.
Other, more well known, flavourings commonly used in Thai cookery are fresh mint, basil and coriander, unsalted peanuts, fresh chillies, both green and red as well as chilli powder, lime and lemon juice and garlic.
Noodles of differing types are often added to flavoured broths with vegetables such as bean sprouts or green beans and chicken or prawns, making a flavoursome soup for lunch.
Dipping sauces are a popular condiment to accompany a Thai meal, particularly a deep-fried dish, and usually contain any combination of tamarind, sugar, lime juice, fish sauce, finely chopped chilli, garlic and spring onion.
A Thai meal will usually end with an array of prepared fresh fruit such as mango, pineapple and papaya. Desserts are only served on very special occasions or at banquets.
About The Author
http://lizebiz.com/
Wedding Anniversary Speeches - Ten Top Tips on What to Say or Do
Wedding Anniversary Speeches - Ten Top Tips on What to Say or Do
by Niamh Crowe
1. Don�t say anything in your wedding anniversary speech that would distress the anniversary couple. Subjects such as drug taking or alcoholism in the family should be avoided at all costs.
2. Do not speak of somebody who is deceased unless you know that the couple would like you to mention the fact that they are with you in spirit on the day. Much will depend on how recent the bereavement is. It is really safer to check whether or not the couple would be upset at the mention.
3. If it is your own anniversary do not mention private matters of contention to the guests who are present. So don�t talk seriously about the way your wife spends all your money foolishly or the fact that your husband is really a workaholic who can�t spare the time to look after his own children.
4. Don�t mention previous marriages. If there are children from a previous marriage present you should be very careful about mentioning them unless of course you know the couple would like you to do so.
5. Don�t say anything derogatory about marriage itself even in a joking manner. This is a celebration of matrimony and everything you say should be positive.
6. Don�t forget to check the anniversary before you give the speech. Each anniversary is different and there is no point in talking about rubies if the party you are attending is for a golden wedding anniversary.
7. Don�t say anything about the actual wedding day of the couple unless you are sure you have your facts right. If you mention the bridesmaids or the best man be sure you have their names right even fifty years on.
8. Don�t tell dirty jokes or blue stories. A wedding anniversary party is usually a family occasion and you don�t want to offend anybody. Don�t take that to mean though that your speech shouldn�t be light-hearted.
9. Don�t be too sentimental in what you say. A little sentiment is all right but it should be laced with some humor. A wedding anniversary speech is not the time for tear-jerkers. The speech should reflect the fact the couple is celebrating.
10. Never mention a family member who has been the cause of family distress It�s fine to say John would dearly love to be present but unfortunately, had to be away on unavoidable business at this time. It�s not good to say that John would love to be there except that he is, unfortunately, in prison.
About The Author
Copyright
Niamh Crowe
Copyright Speechwriters 1992-2007
marketing@speech-writers.com
http://www.speech-writers.com/wedding_anniversary.htm
Tel. +353 1 8333599
Drinking Tea
Drinking Tea
by Kadence Buchanan
The second most consumed beverage behind water is tea. Interestingly enough the 3,200,000 tones of tea produced worldwide come from only one plant species, named "camellia sinensis." But how a plant becomes a beverage? Tea is made by steeping processed leaves, buds, or twigs of the tea bush in hot water for a few minutes, a great variety of tea tastes, aromas and colors can excite even the more skeptical drinker. If you do like tea drinking, but simply never had the opportunity to learn more about it beyond the fact that you enjoy it, you should know that there are thousands of kinds of tea offered on today's market. Shades in flavor derive from the region of cultivation and the method of processing the tea leaves. It is the processing techniques that produce the four simple tea categories are considered the art of tea making. In its most basic form, processing is the taking of the raw green leaves and deciding whether or not, and how much oxidation (or fermentation) should take place before drying them out. Oxidation is the reaction of the enzymes contained in tea leaves when they are broken, bruised or crushed.
The first category is that of black tea. Black tea is nothing more than the leaves of the camellia sinensis after being exposed to 8-24 hours of open air. After the leaves are picked up they are spread out to let the water they contain evaporate. You have probably witnessed it happening to a flower that is left without being watered. The foliage curls up and begins to dry. After this part of the process, the tea leaves are balled into rolls that encourage oxidization. When fully oxidized, the leaves turn into a rich black color. Tea producers then put the tea leaves into the final drying period before sorting and packaging them.
Oolong tea is another tea category and is considered to be the most difficult of the four types of teas to process. The best way to describe oolong tea is that it is somewhere in between green and black tea. This is because the leaves are only partially oxidized during the processing. As with black tea, the leaves are spread out to dry for 8-24 hours, but after that, they are tossed about in a basket in order to create a bruising and partial exposure to the air. The final step involves steaming the leaves, which neutralizes the enzymes in the tea and prevents further oxidization.
Green teas, like white teas, are closer to tasting like fresh leaves of grass that the other two tea categories. This type of tea is also lower in caffeine and has higher antioxidant properties. The whole process of creating green tea revolves around preventing oxidization from taking place in the leaves. Though the tea leaves are sometimes laid out to dry for a few hours, then, in order to neutralize the enzymes and prevent further oxidation, the leaves are steamed or pan fried. It is this very technique which results in the preservation of the enzymes which have recently become the focus of medical research. After steaming, the leaves are rolled up, still quite green in color.
Finally, white tea has recently become a popular item in the west as it is the least processed tea and thus tastes the most like fresh leaves or grass. White tea is made of the little buds of the tea plant. Again like green tea, white tea is steamed or pan fried to prevent any kind of oxidization, and great care is taken to avoid bruising or crushing the tea. The dried buds have a silver-like appearance because the tiny white hairs of new growth are still present.
About The Author
A few notices, curiosities and some advice for tasting caviar a delicacy originating in Russia but nowadays imitated and produced almost everywhere.
A few notices, curiosities and some advice for tasting caviar a delicacy originating in Russia but nowadays imitated and produced almost everywhere.
by David Russo VMD, PhD
Like it or not, everyone knows that it is a Russian specialty, inseparable from vodka... The word, however, is of Turkish origin: "Kawiar" became "caviale" in Italian, then "caviar" in French, all this before the Russians even arrived upon the Volga River or the Caspian Sea in the 16th century. Before the word entered into the Russian lexicon, roe from all fish, including the sturgeon and salmon, was referred to as "ikra", a word of Slavic origins decidedly.
The first to consume caviar were Muslims living in the Caspian region, who had to content themselves with the eggs due to their religion prohibiting them from eating sturgeon meat. There is no question, however, that the Russian czars and their subjects made up for lost time in consuming sturgeon roe. After the fall of the Soviet Union caviar was no longer produced exclusively in Russia and Iran but also in Azerbaidjan, Kazakistan and Turkmenistan. In other words, it was also produced by the nations along the banks of the Caspian Sea who rushed to take advantage of the prolific riches of the Caspian. According to experts, the pressure exerted by these nations combined with the ecological disasters of the Volga River and the Caspian Sea will bring about, in 7-10 years the near-complete disappearance of black-caviar. Enjoy it while it lasts!
Caviar can be fresh, not sterilized, thereby fully preserving its flavour. Fresh caviar, however, must be kept refrigerated and has a limited duration, from 2 to 6 months, depending on the type of manufacturing. Sterilized caviar has a long preservation time, it usually comes in a glass jar and can be kept for a longer time at room temperature, but it definitely loses its flavour. The eggs of the Beluga are the largest and reach 2.5 millimetres in diameter. They are considered the most valuable when they have clear shadings; those of the Sevruga are instead the smallest (about 1 millimetre), but they are characterized by an enhanced flavour; Osetra (about 2 millimetres) vaguely recalls the taste of walnut, has a clear green-grey colour and a gilded quality. Sterlet caviar was only eaten by the families of the Sci� and the Zar.
The sturgeon (Acipenser sturio) is a prehistoric lance like fish with very small, fine scales and an elongated snout with four tactile feelers at the tip. The beluga sturgeon (Huso huso) is the largest, weighing up to 400 Kg and measuring up to 4 meters in length. It is extremely rare (fewer than 100 are caught per year) and varies in colour from a clear grey to black. The osetra sturgeon (Acipenser gueldenstaedtii colchicus) weighs up to 200 Kg and measures up to 2 meters. The sevruga sturgeon (Acipenser stellatus) is very thin, weighing up to 30 Kg and measuring up to 1.5 meters. Beluga caviar can comprise up to 15% of the sturgeon's weight! The beluga sturgeon is a wild and robust fish and is hard to catch. It travels to the streams to lay its eggs only every 2-4 years.
There are numerous kinds of jars and tins of caviar, the most well known being Beluga (blue tin), whose grey eggs are appraised by clarity, the clearest being of highest value (000 clear grey, 00 medium grey, 0 dark grey). Next is Osetra (yellow tin), the eggs are also grey but smaller than Beluga, with a nutty flavour. A highly refined type of Osetra is also known as Golden Royal and was prized by Russian czars. Karaburun eggs vary in colour from amber-yellow to greyish yellow. Finally, the most common and least expensive type, while delicious nonetheless when fresh and authentic, is Sevruga (red tin). It is always preferable to select your confections behind glass, so as to be able to verify its quality (shine, colour, consistency), as well as the expiration date.
The flavour of caviar is fine, delicate, rich of tonality, with a precise aroma, and probably among the best of gourmet food. For this reason, the best way to taste caviar is to eat it alone, possibly after being chilled on ice in its container, opened just before eating. For the best taste, use a non-metallic teaspoon made of something like bone or nacre. Above all else it must be tasted without lemon, which alters its real flavour! An elegant coupling with the four caviar varieties can be realized using whipped butter with vodka, minced scallion (sweetened in water), minced hard-boiled egg (yellow and white).
Carefully spread caviar on thin slices of lightly toasted and buttered bread. Warm blinis (Russian crepes), spread with whipped cream, are also particularly good accompaniment.
To top it all off, a glass of ice-cold vodka, making sure to drink it only at the end in order to avoid numbing the palate while tasting the caviar.
If you do not like caviar at all, at least try eggplant caviar, which is nothing more than a mash of eggplant pulp!
95% of the caviar produced in the world comes from sturgeon caught in the Caspian Sea by Russian and Iranian fishermen. The remaining 5% is produced in China, the USA, France and also Italy. Widespread opinion holds that the most valuable caviar is the Iranian. This is because the Caspian Sea is deeper on the Iranian side, never freezing, crossed by currents that oxygenate its waters, with a gravely bottom as opposed to the muddier bottom on the Russian side. In Iran, female sturgeon fishing is under the supervision of Cites, the international regulatory body overseeing its quantity and quality. For this reason caviar lovers widely agree that the best caviar is Iranian. The sturgeon's preferred habitat is in much deeper and warmer waters than those of the Iranian banks of the Caspian. So the Iranian fishermen set up their nets far from shore, allowing them to catch the females before they begin their journey to the river mouths that feed into the Caspian. The sturgeon is then anesthetized and the caviar is extracted by an entirely manual process which includes caesarean, the separation of the eggs by dimension and then cleaning. Once the eggs have been selected and categorized they are salted and packaged. Packing is a very delicate operation. In fact, after having filled the containers, the lid is put on with utmost caution; light pressure is applied with the hand so that any entrapped air exits the container. An airtight rubber seal is then finally put on the lid. The oily liquid that usually comes out of the containers during storage is a sign of its freshness.
The Russians, meanwhile, are forced to wait for the females to arrive at the mouth of the Volga to fish them, by which time the eggs have matured further, losing many of the qualities that are said to make the Iranian caviar better (crunchy skin, defined grain etc). It is also worth noting that the Iranian method of anesthetizing the fish allows it to be brought to the collection points where the caesarean is performed alive, so as to ensure maximum freshness of the eggs. Sturgeon fishing season starts in February and ends in May, but the best quality caviar is produced in the spring.
Although Russian caviar is more commercialized, the uniformity of the grain, the crunchy skin, the dodecagonal shape (as opposed to spherical) and a much defined grain (not sticky) of the Iranian caviar render it the preferred caviar among chefs worldwide.
Fresh caviar can be recognized by odour, which carries a hint of the sea in it, and its delicate taste. Any fishy odour or spicy taste immediately signals that the caviar is not fresh. The grain must be well defined, in the shape of a dodecagon, not sticky and without any surrounding liquid. The tin should be tightly packed, without any empty space under the lid. If the caviar is not fresh or has been exposed to heat the rupturing of the grains causes liquid to form and the quality to diminish.
From a dietetic point of view, it is a nutritive food, rich in proteins, fats, phospholipids and lecithin. It provides 280 Kcal. per 100 g of product. contains considerable amounts of the vitamins A, C, PP, B2, B4 and B12 as well as both folic and pantothenic acids. As for proteins it contains arginine, istidine, leucine, lysine, and methionine all essential amino acids.
The most expensive and very rare caviar is the Almas, packaged in 24 karat gold tins and sold at up to $24,000 per kg! Its whitish colour is due to the age of the sturgeon from which it is harvested and its flavour is marvellous.
Caviar is said to bear aphrodisiacal qualities.
About The Author
Veterinary Scientist, Gourmet Lover and Amateur Cook
http://www.high-net-worth-gourmet.com
718 8247308
dgrusso@verizon.net
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Outstanding Managers Know How To Delight Their Staff � Do You?
Outstanding Managers Know How To Delight Their Staff � Do You?
by Andrew Rondeau
The success of an organisation does not solely depend on management but on the work of its staff as well. An employee that enjoys his or her position and feels rewarded by their efforts will ultimately be the most successful in their careers and the most beneficial to the company.
There is nothing like being around happy, satisfied staff that bring their optimism and productivity to the organisation. These are the employees who are the most attentive to the needs of the customer and strive to go that extra mile to be the most helpful.
A positive attitude is contagious and can change the attitude of every staff member around. However, just as a positive mindset is easily spread, so is a negative one. If a member of the team is unhappy, watch out! His or her negative attitude can become infectious - contaminating fellow co-workers and customers alike.
Pessimistic employees can breed an atmosphere of low morale which equals decreased productivity, employee turnover, and unproductive time spent gossiping and complaining among co-workers.
In order to combat negativity in the workplace, it is essential that employees experience ongoing motivation from management to perform their work to the best of their abilities. Regular contact with employees is necessary to show that you care about their contributions.
Another way to beat low morale is to develop an employee satisfaction survey. This is an easy, anonymous way for employees to voice their concerns and problems without being identified. Issues that are brought up from the survey can be addressed during an organisational meeting.
Extra ways that an employer can construct an environment that motivates employees include:
~Staff lunches
~Holiday celebrations
~Employee of the month
~Continuing education programs
An organisation that recognises that its employees are valuable and deserve to receive a certain amount of praise and recognition will benefit from increased productivity and employee satisfaction and retention, which in turn, will positively affect customer satisfaction. Otherwise, the expense of training each new employee so that they may excel in some OTHER organisation is foolish, time-consuming and expensive.
Management with the "easy-come-easy-go" mentality creates conflict, confusion and quite a bit of turnover in the workplace. Nothing positive can be gained by treating employees in such a manner. It's no wonder that some employees treat their positions as a 9-to-5 job.
Any organisation can make changes for the better and help create an environment that is conducive to employee happiness. After all, the success of your business depends upon it.
The organisation with the right approach will be the one to reap the rewards of success.
About The Author
A Tasty Way To Get Noticed: Chocolate Coins
A Tasty Way To Get Noticed: Chocolate Coins
by Terry Roberts
Chocolate coins are the new way to advertise and market products and services. The corporate world is always coming up with new and catchy ways to advertise their products and chocolate coins can advertise company logos or be used as an incentive program for personnel. Employees of the month programs are a good place to use these chocolate coins to reward the hard working individuals. Many chocolate companies are using a new technology called chocolography to transfer images and logos on to pieces of chocolate to create individual pieces. The new technology allows an image, picture or message to be transferred on to the surface of the chocolate. Some companies are giving these corporate logo chocolate coins to business people attending business meetings, for trade show promotions and to thank their clients for their business. One chocolate coin company has creatively designed a clamshell case for the coins to rest in, thereby protecting the coin for transportation and for a greater effect in advertising.
This idea is also being introduced for party favors and wedding favors. The names of the wedding couple or their picture can be positioned onto the surface of the chocolate coins. Chocolate coins also make unique gifts for baby showers and bar mitzvahs. Special anniversary dates or birthdays could be added to make a personalized favor. The chocolate used can be colored to suit the theme of the party or occasion.
Chocolate coins are available in different shapes such as circles, hearts, lollipops, boxes, squares and many more imaginable styles. A variety of chocolates are used in making these chocolate coins, including dark, milk and even vanilla. Some chocolate companies use colored foils to wrap the chocolate coins to accentuate the printed areas of the coins. Some companies prefer an imprinted look to the coin, as where the coin takes on a more realistic look resembling actual coins. The companies put their mark on the coin by providing the required emblem to the chocolate printing company. The printing is done by an automated impressing system that stamps the image onto one or both sides of the chocolate coins. Choices of font and images can add flair to the coins. From simplistic to very intricate and complex designs, the impression is sure to please and make of the coin an excellent reminder of the company or event. Photographs can be added to make even more of an impression. A picture of a business or an honorary person lends more detail to the chocolate piece and furthers the impact and personalization of the product.
Utilizing chocolate allows for a cost effective way to present or advertise a company or business. Using chocolate coins for advertising or celebrating special occasions puts an exclusive and novel twist on the idea of making a remarkable lasting impression that is also delicious. So, if you�re looking for a novel way to advertise your company � or yourself � look no further!
About The Author
The Antispyware Dilemma.
The Antispyware Dilemma.
by Arvind Singh
Staying clear of spurious antispyware can keep your pc protected. Hordes of products out there do not keep their promise of cleaning up your pc of spyware. Worse still, you might buy an antispyware product that does just the opposite - install new adware and spyware.
Spyware is something we cannot escape from if we use the Internet. But if we stay abreast of how some antispyware vendors can take advantage of us with useless products, fake product reviews and advertisements that mislead us on sites we trust, we can make an informed choice in eliminating these hoaxes.
How can you keep from being cheated?
Fake and useless antispyware software can crawl into your system. If you suspect that your system has spyware, you will invest in reliable adware removal and antispyware packages to prevent future problems for your computer. But you have to be very cautious about which antispyware you choose. There are hordes of products out there that do not keep their promise of cleaning up your pc of spyware. Worse still, you might buy an antispyware product that does just the opposite - install new adware and spyware.
Another hassle is that fake antispyware programs might be able to find and eliminate only certain spyware and tracking cookies that don't pose a serious threat. The actual problem may continue to reside on your pc. Most adware programs continue download adware, so you just have a constant scare about what might happen to your pc.
The thing about adware and spyware is that they are changing all the time, so while you might think you've eliminated one lot, a totally different set might have landed on your computer that you cannot detect easily. The people who produce adware, spyware and Trojans are shrewd, providing a challenge to the most effective antispyware in the market. You might be thinking that you are buying reliable antispyware tools, when you might actually be paying for bundled adware, viruses, browser hijacker and all the things you want to remove from your system.
What About Antispyware Reviews
Sites that claim to provide authentic antispyware product reviews abound on the Internet. These may be of questionable credibility and may not give you an unbiased review of the antispyware's abilities. There are shady companies that pretend to rank high on Google, leading you to think that the reviews are believable.
The worst of the lot is those fake companies that use those disgusting banner advertisements, which offer to scan your pc. They use graphics to show a progress bar just like the one you see when you actually scan your pc. They show results that are obviously not the real thing but a demonstration of how the software may work. Beware of these cheats. They link you to sites that are supposed to fix the spyware problem. These also land up in your email inbox as part of the email message.
Armed with the above information, you can research and select an antispyware package from a reliable source.
About The Author
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Monday, April 28, 2008
Walmart Online Shopping
Walmart Online Shopping
by Roy Shepherd
In this day and age, the Internet has replaced a lot of the everyday activity done outside the house. More and more people are turning to the Web to make their household purchases. The majority of stores have jumped onto this lucrative business strategy and WalMart online shopping has followed suit. Taking advantage of WalMart low prices has never been easier when you can check on the latest deals, simply with the click of a mouse.
Nothing is left to the imagination when you want to enjoy WalMart low prices through WalMart online shopping. You�ll find everything you desire right on the Internet, whether it is the toy your son always wanted or the perfect watch to wrap for under the Christmas tree. Through the Internet, you will also be able to find a host of WalMart coupons to use for the purchases on several online and offline selections.
Not only do online products feature WalMart low prices, but also the selection seems larger than life. Through WalMart online shopping, you will be able to choose from more than 80,000 CDs. The latest video games, DVDs, electronics and gifts are all represented on the Internet through WalMart online shopping.
When using WalMart online shopping to make your next purchase, you will find extra capabilities, such as preordering products that haven�t even hit the stores yet. This includes brand new items, such as Zune, which offers 30BG of storage for all of your music, video and graphic needs.
Enjoying WalMart low prices is furthered by a wide-range of online options. This includes convenient WalMart coupons, clearance savings, extra deals and bargains, as well as exciting rollback prices. Rollback savings can save hundreds of dollars for the same products offered at the WalMart stores.
In regards to new products, WalMart online shopping offers a heads up on the items available in your local store, as well as available through the Internet. They alert the public to new releases in all of their departments, as well as new packaging campaigns.
The downloading of WalMart coupons is available for use in the stores, as well as alerts on product samples. You could be on your way to trying some of the products you�ve always wanted to sample, but didn�t want to risk losing money on a purchase. Some of the WalMart coupons and samples you may encounter include anything from dietary supplements to free contact lenses.
When browsing WalMart online shopping sites, you will also keep up with some of the events being held in your area. This includes product demonstrations, as well as a chance to take advantage of a wide-range of freebies, from discount magazine subscriptions to ongoing contests.
About The Author
Mountain Hiking With Your Dog
Mountain Hiking With Your Dog
by Charley Hwang
If you are a nature lover and often go jungle trekking with your pet dog, you would have noticed dangers along the way that would have been harmful to your dog, as it may cause it injuries or even be threatening to its life. To ensure that you and your dog would be guarded against these hazards along the terrain you like to travel on, here are some areas you should avoid and keep your dog away from.
Mountains provide beautiful views and sceneries, and a lot of people enjoy climbing one to spend some quality time there with his dog. There are many dangers along the mountainside, such as the height, and the drop-off cliffs.
Dogs, unlike humans, usually have no fear of heights. In this case, ignorance is bliss. A dog can actually walk alongside the cliff a mile high and would not be concerned with the dangers of falling off at all. When they actually do slip and lose their balance, there is almost nothing they can do to save themselves from falling over the side. There are many areas at edges of cliffs which may be concealed by snow and a dog would not realize that mistake when it is too late.
Besides the dangers of falling over cliffs, there is also the danger of high altitudes which is harmful to your dog. Older dogs may have difficulties breathing at higher altitudes, and that may result in a tragic death. If your dog has health issues such as heart problems, lung problems or if they are a brachycephalic breed (short-nosed), do try to keep them away from high altitudes as it is more hazardous for them.
As we all are aware, oxygen supply decreases as one reaches higher altitudes. Your dog�s body is not accustomed to this and it may get shortness of breath, or even altitude sickness. Bear in mind that if you started hiking with your dog on a hot day at a low altitude and ended up being in a cold weather at high altitudes at the peak, both of you may not be prepared for the changes that will take place.
About The Author
Spyware Security Practices Aid Computer Maintenance
Spyware Security Practices Aid Computer Maintenance
by Arvind Singh
There are many ways that users can protect the system from Spyware. The more the security measures the better it is for maintenance of the computer registry and keeping the system healthy.
Spyware is a scourge for many PC users. Spyware not only covertly runs in the background and steals personal information of the user it is a potential security threat of which the extent of the damage cannot be determined. Though it is important to install anti-Spyware and anti-Adware on your system there are other utilities that must be used to clean the system registry every month or two. These tools include good free Spyware removal software among other security measures the user can take to protect the computer from malicious attack such as Viruses, Spyware and Adware.
Windows Inbuilt Internet Security Settings
Microsoft has built into its operating system and Internet Explorer many settings that enhance the Internet security of the system. In addition to this there are settings that can prevent, to a great extent, Adware and Spyware from installing on the system. It is however, imperative that there be anti-Spyware and anti-virus software on the system to prevent serious and more consistent Spyware and virus attacks. The security settings on the system serve to aid this front-end security software. The firewall settings on Windows wards off many attacks though this is not always effective as third party security software.
Anti-Spyware and Registry
Anti-Spyware is third party software that constantly watches over the operating system. It also scans the system on a regular basis or preset intervals such as every time the system boots or shuts down. It mainly scans the activity of Internet Explorer. If it detects any activity not initiated by the user it immediately sounds an alarm and removes the cause of the activity, the Spyware. Once the Spyware has been removed the remnants must be cleaned from the registry. Free Spyware Adware remover tools can do the job efficiently. This software scans the registry for Spyware and redundant entries and deletes these entries. If traces of Spyware are left in the registry they will serve to slow down the system and may also download the Spyware again from the Internet. A Spyware removal utility is another free Spyware removal software that scans and cleans the registry very efficiently. This free Spyware Adware removal tool also has a registry backup function to restore the registry to its original state if things go awry.
In the final analysis it is determined that no amount of security measures are enough to protect the system from malicious attack. The internal security measures of the system must be set as high as possible without hampering the efficiency of the system as well as having third party software such as anti-Spyware and anti-adware software installed on the system to enhance the system security.
About The Author
To know about the Registry Cleaner visit at: http://www.pcmantra.com/registry-cleaner.htm
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Sunday, April 27, 2008
Credit Card Types And How To Know The Best For You
Credit Card Types And How To Know The Best For You
by Mario Churchill
Choosing the right credit card is a decision that�s more important and difficult to make than most people think. With the right credit card, you�ll be able to maximize your card benefits without getting into debt.
Credit Card Types � Which One Suits You Best?
Low Interest Credit Card � If you�re interested in having a credit card only so you can pay for emergency expenses when you run out of cash, this is the best type of card for you.
Reward Credit Card � Every time you swipe your credit card, you get to enjoy an equivalent number of points depending on how much you�ve spent. The points you�ve accumulated can later be on exchanged for various prizes.
Airline Miles Credit Card � This is a type of reward credit card that offers only airline miles as rewards. When you use this credit card to purchase your plane fare, you�ll be able to enjoy reward miles. Later on, you�ll be able to use them and get discounted plane fare or fly for free even! The same rule applies for gas credit cards.
Student Credit Card � Credit card companies have lately been designing credit card offers exclusively for students. Although accompanied with higher interest rates, these cards often have funky designs and offer special reward programs developed primarily to provide maximum enjoyment for students. Proof of schooling is often required. It helps if you�re enrolled in an accredited school and you�ve got great grades.
Secured Credit Card � If you�ve got bad credit, there�s still a chance for you to own a credit card�but only if you�re okay with having a secured one. This type of credit card requires you to make a deposit on your bank account and serves as collateral in the event that you fail to pay off your credit card debt. Your credit card limit may equal or be more than the amount you�ve deposited.
Prepaid Credit Card � This isn�t a credit card per se, but it generally works like one. The limit of this card will depend on how much you�ve deposited in its account. You can�t spend more than what you�ve deposited. Its main difference with a secured credit card is that secured credit cards can have greater card limits beyond the value of its deposit.
Business Credit Card � This works just like any other conventional credit card only with a few additional perks that make it extremely suitable for business use. A business credit card can automatically separate personal expenses from business expenditures, facilitating monthly tallies for your taxes. It can also provide expense reports for your business, special rewards for your business, and allow you to provide supplementary cards for your employees. You can also choose to modify the credit limit of your employees if necessary.
Home-Secured Credit Card � This works like a secured credit card, but only this time you�re using your home as collateral. If you don�t get to pay off your credit card debt, you know what will happen to your home, don�t you?
Charity Credit Card � Think of it as shopping for a cause. Every time you purchase something using your credit card, a small amount of your money will be donated to the charity being sponsored by the credit card company. This is a great way to salve your conscience if you feel guilty about your materialistic tendencies.
About The Author
Baby Footprint Stamp
Baby Footprint Stamp
by Lena Hilltorp
When it comes to the baby footprint stamp you can purchase a stamp of a baby�s foot in any craft store or online. They will look so real and they are great when it comes to certain things. You will want to use the baby footprint stamp on your baby shower invitations. When planning a shower the invitation is where you can have an impression on the guests.
This will tell them exactly what the motif is. It is very important hat you give the right one. If you place a baby footprint stamp on the invitation or envelope, you are stating that the party is everything baby. If you aren�t into getting a stamp that doesn�t really look like a real footprint, you may want to pay the extra of a stamp made from a child�s foot. They sell them in the craft stores. If that still doesn�t sound like a good idea, if you have had your baby, you can give out invitations that have the baby�s footprint on it.
Stamping is a very popular art and it is used for practically anything and everything. You will find stamps of all sizes and located through craft stores or online. You can add the footprint stamp to make anything seem a little fancy. If you would like your can stamp the napkins, the table cloth, or use it in any way as a decoration.
You can find stamps in various sizes and you can play around with the color ink that you use. If you are having a girl, you may want to purchase pink ink, for a boy, blue ink. However, many people don�t wish to know what they are having so you may want to purchase a yellow, green, or purple color. You can match the stamp ink with the party decorations. Inks are sold in practically every color known to man. When you are using the stamps you don�t have to have things in a straight line, you can randomly stamp things and will give a great look to invitations and decorations.
You may even want to stamp your tag on the favors.
When it comes to using a stamp for your baby shower footprint, you will find that it is a lot of fun and you will want to continue with the stamping and use it on practically anything. You can stamp balloons and practically anything else for the shower.
You can even use the stamp for the food. All you have to do is purchase a stamp, and some food dye. Then you are able to dip it in the foot dye and then stamp sandwiches, desserts, and more goodies that are edible. The food dye is perfectly safe for your food. You should never use ink on your food.
Copyright © 2006 Lena Hilltorp
About The Author
How Politics Can Teach the Sandwich Generation a Lesson in Communication
How Politics Can Teach the Sandwich Generation a Lesson in Communication
by Phyllis Goldberg, Ph.D.
Senator John Kerry said his remark, "If you don't study hard you get stuck in Iraq," was a joke gone awry. President George W. Bush was critical, commenting to the Associated Press that "it didn't sound like a joke to me. More important, it didn't sound like a joke to the troops." What did you think?
With the election right around the corner, the political stakes are high. Some bloggers and journalists in the Conservative camp are focused on Senator John Kerry's "campaign gaffe." Others on the Democratic team view this fixation as a GOP talking point - a smoke screen for President Bush's "inappropriately conducted war."
Our concern is more personal � what lessons can you, the Sandwich Generation, learn about your own communication with your emerging adult children and aging parents?
We all know that words can hurt. An offhand remark or slip of the tongue can be emotionally damaging. If the World War II motto, "loose lips sink ships," is leaving you with what has been termed the "foot-in-mouth syndrome," add the following tips to your communication toolbox.
1. When addressing a sensitive issue, state a specific goal you want to accomplish. Be direct and clear in what you say. Don�t accuse or blame your listener's character or ideas.
2. As body language and tone of voice count, assume a non-threatening stance and monitor your negative emotions. Be slow to complain or criticize. Take some responsibility by using "I-focused" statements to clarify that this is your personal opinion.
3. Listen closely without planning your response. Be empathic to the speaker's position and ask questions for clearer understanding. Try to put yourself in the other's shoes and look at the issue from that vantage point.
4. In a conflict, count to 10 before responding. Or, instead of escalating, walk away. Take time to calm down and agree to return to the discussion later and work out a solution.
5. Sometimes you do know what's best. Take a stand and hold your ground when the safety or well being of your children or parents is at stake. Be patient as they grow to appreciate your position, even if it�s unpopular at the time.
If political history is prologue, it seems like it is human nature to defend yourself initially. Instead of fighting back, take some time to reflect. Discuss your feelings with your family in flux about an issue that requires an apology. Use this as an opportunity - turn negative feelings into more positive ones, teach a life lesson, form a deeper connection.
About The Author
Phyllis Goldberg, Ph.D. & Rosemary Lichtman, Ph.D. are founders of �http://www.HerMentorCenter.com�, a website for midlife women and �http://www.NourishingRelationships.Blogspot.com�, a Blog for the Sandwich Generation. They are authors of a forthcoming book about Boomer women and family relationships and publish a free Newsletter, Stepping Stones, through the website. As psychotherapists, they have a combined 40 years of private practice experience.
Nano Particle Tech Uses for Molybdenum
Nano Particle Tech Uses for Molybdenum
by James Finch
Finally, the financial markets have caught on as to how hot molybdenum stocks could get. While we began researching molybdenum about a year ago, and only first publishing in July 2006, molybdenum commentator Ken Reser has practically been the lone voice in the moly wilderness for investors. (We understand there have been several tout sheets hyping molybdenum stocks for nearly as long, but we can�t include those in serious discussions about this metal.)
Now that molybdenum traders have grown more bullish about the metal, we expect molybdenum pricing to continue higher. Ferro moly prices have continued firming up. Some quantity is now selling at US$76 per kg in Europe. One report indicates a recent moly oxide sale at $31/pound.
The emergence of the Sprott Molybdenum Participation Fund (TSX: MLY; OTC Pinks: SMPCF) might only suggest the beginning of stronger institutional interest in primary molybdenum producers and on-the-horizon molybdenum producers � those whose projects could be online by 2010 or sooner.
In March 2005, Ken Reser penned a short editorial entitled, �Molybdenum: The 21st Century & Beyond Metal.�
Mainstream analysts had not really bothered to investigate the numerous uses for molybdenum prior to Ken Reser�s discussion. Since then, molybdenum stocks have had an incredible run. Mainstream media, such as Canada�s Globe & Mail, Dow Jones MarketWatch, The Australian and London�s Daily Telegraph � have featured molybdenum in their articles and named some of the favored companies.
Now that moly�s time has come, many have passed Ken Reser by, aside from our Australian colleagues, FNArena.com. This is often the fate of pioneers who pave the road and point the direction where investors should head. Pioneers are oft forgotten, although streets are later named after them.
That�s not going to be the case if we have any say in this. Ken Reser�s moly repertoire has been extensive. Editorials since his seminal article have discussed moly uses in oil and gas de-sulphurization, catalysts, coal liquefaction, energy pipelines, oil super tankers, drill stem tubing, super alloys, nuclear reactors and turbines among others.
What many thought was fiction Reser preached, more than two years ago, are ideas now at the forefront of mainstream discussions among highly respected analysts. The International Molybdenum Association (IMOA) should be thankful Ken Reser attracted such a high level of investor interest to the moly mining sector over the past two years.
Well, the pioneer is alive and well. Ken Reser has more insights into molybdenum�s future. And we invited Ken to publish them in his commentary below.
Ken Reser�s Commentary
Little attention has been given to a few other aspects of this metal of mystery, in a world growing and changing so rapidly. I have little doubt there are more than a few uses of moly. New discoveries are waiting in the wings.
One case in point is Nano-Particle technology involving molybdenum.
American Elements Corp; The US leading manufacturer of Rare Earth & Advanced Material products had this to say about Nano-Particle Molybdenum:
�Molybdenum Oxide (MoO) Nano-powder or Nano-particles, nano-dots or nano-crystals are ferric and ferrous spherical or faceted high surface area oxide magnetic nanostructure particles. Nano-scale Molybdenum Oxide Particles are typically 20-80 nanometers (nm) with specific surface area (SSA) in the 10 - 50 m 2 /g range and also available in with an average particle size of 100 nm range with a specific surface area of approximately 7- 10 m 2 /g.
�Nano Molybdenum Oxide Particles are also available in ultra high purity, and high purity, transparent, and coated and dispersed forms. Applications for Molybdenum Oxide Nano-crystals include in electrochemical capacitors, and in coatings, plastics, nano-wire, nano-fiber and textiles and in certain alloy and catalyst applications. Further research is being done for their potential electrical, dielectric, magnetic, optical, imaging, bio-medical and bioscience properties.�
Applications for molybdenum nano-crystals include as a high surface area catalyst and catalyst support and as the catalysts in the synthesis of vertically aligned carbon nano-tubes and in coatings, plastics, nano-wire, nano-fiber and textiles and in certain alloy and catalyst applications.
Super Alloys Created by use of Nano-Particle Reactants
(Courtesy of Materials Research Society: Lab Data)
�Advancements in nano-technology for material processing have spurred the development of super alloys that provide improved protection against corrosion and wear. Nano-scale reactant particles offer unique thermal properties and increased homogeneity that may improve the micro-structural features and macroscopic properties of the final product.
�In this study up to 10-wt % nano-scale molybdenum tri-oxide (MoO3) particles were added to micron scale nickel (Ni) and aluminum (Al). Results show that adding MoO3 increases the flame temperature and produces greater ignition sensitivity produces a more homogeneous microstructure and increases the overall wear resistance of the product.�
Some other uses of nano-particle molybdenum include integrated in paraffin, lubricants, ceramics, nuclear reactor fuel (low enriched uranium), propylene production, high temperature grease, optical fibers, plasma televisions, fuel cells, and much more.
Hollow sphere nano-moly particles now developed show greatly increased effectiveness in the bonding ability of de-sulphurization catalysts. Solar cells are now built on a backing of molybdenum foil. Nano-particle pigment coatings, glass works, dietary and medical products, including artificial limbs.
Weldability of nickel-based superalloys can be approved with �weld filler. The invention relates to weld filler which includes these constituents (in wt %): 17.5%-20.0% chromium (Cr), 10.0%-12.0% cobalt (Co), 9.0%-10.5% Molybdenum (Mo) and 0.1%-3.3% titanium.
Hydro De-Sulphurization Catalysts
The unique HDS (Hydro De-Sulphurization) Catalyst aspect of this approach is to use nano-sized MoS2 particles for two reasons:
1. Nano-sizing increases surface area and therefore the number of "active-edge sites" per unit catalyst volume
2. Amorphous nano-particles may overcome steric resistance in sulfur-containing large aromatic molecules making the sulfur susceptible to catalytic attack during HDS.
This approach has three aspects:
� Characterization of sterically hindered organic sulfur compounds that are typically present in crudes but resistant to conventional HDS catalysts,
� Reaction behavior of these sterically hindered sulfur compounds with nano-sized MoS
� Formulation and evaluation of supported nano MoS2-based system for ultra deep catalytic HDS of heavy oils and distillates.
Worldwide, many millions of pounds of molybdenum are annually used in refineries. New refineries are now under construction in Asia, and on the drawing board in various other parts of the world.
Fuel Cells and Batteries
By alloying molybdenum with platinum, and carefully controlling the particle size and loading level of the alloy particles, engineers from the E-Tek Division of De Nora, N.A. have developed Pt-based anode catalysts for polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells that show excellent resistance to carbon monoxide poisoning.
APS Physics (March 2007) comments on Nano-Structured Molybdenum Oxides for Lithium-Ion Batteries:
�Lithium-ion batteries are the current power sources of choice for portable electronics. Although such batteries are commercially successful, they are not keeping pace with the rapid advances in computing technologies. Also, further improvement of performance and simultaneous reduction in cost as well as material toxicity remain the subject of intensive research.
�Here we report the synthesis and electrochemical performance of a novel molybdenum oxide nano-particle anode that dramatically improves current Li-ion battery technologies. Crystalline MoO nano-particles have been grown by an economical hot-wire chemical-vapor-deposition (HWCVD) technique and a recently developed electrophoresis technique is employed for the fabrication of porous nano-particle anodes. Both cycling stability and rate capability issues are addressed by employing these porous molybdenum oxide films that consist of nano-scale active particles.
�These materials will impact the next generations of rechargeable lithium batteries, not only for applications in consumer electronics, but also for clean energy storage and use in hybrid electric vehicles.�
To review this abstract: http://meetings.aps.org/link/BAPS.2007.MAR.V42.9
More Nano-Particle Uses
Other new uses include development of new molybdenum- (Nano-Particle) strengthened martensitic steels and other Super Alloys. It is also possible to fabricate large-area porous films of molybdenum oxide nano-particles using a novel electrophoresis deposition technique.
Nano-particle films have led to profound advancement in state-of-the-art electrochromic technologies. MoO films are promising for new lithium ion batteries. There are many newly discovered uses as well for nano particle molybdenum in ION space thrusters, space lubricants, space craft metals and even in space telescopes searching the heavens.
Although molybdenum-based catalysts have already been developed for use in the crude oil refinery process and coal liquefaction, the greatest leaps forward could come from the development of nano particle moly-based Catalysts.
Drilling every deep-depth oil well uses as much as 15% Molybdenum for every pound of drill stem steel. Considering the massive number of pounds (tons actually) of drill stem tubing annually used around the globe, I�m sure we would be amazed when extrapolating the actual amount of molybdenum used in just that one sector.
If you also consider that just one kilometer of typical crude oil pipeline uses approximately 2000 pounds of molybdenum in the steel, and there are globally between 80,000 and 100,000 miles of proposed pipeline projects, one can easily visualize the exponential growth pattern of moly demand in years ahead.
As I have stated in past, now you can see why the world is viewing molybdenum in a different light. It isn�t just the demand from China, India or other rapidly developing nations driving the demand, the price and the different uses.
Molybdenum is truly a metal for and of the twenty-first century. It will play an ever increasingly important part of future base metals demand. And this could very well prove a boon to primary molybdenum mining stocks. Many have strongly rallied in the past year as molybdenum prices went north, instead of south as many 'experts' forecast.
Primary molybdenum producer Blue Pearl (BLEFF), imminent producer Roca Mines (ROCAF), and near-term producers such as Adanac (AUAYF), Idaho General (GMO) and Australian-based Moly Mines (MYMNF) appear to be the investor favorites for 2007.
COPYRIGHT © 2007 by StockInterview.com
About The Author
Ken Reser is a research consultant to Adanac Molybdenum Corp. Visit http://www.adanac.moly.com
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Original Gift Ideas For Any Occasion
Original Gift Ideas For Any Occasion
by Sjoerd Eisma
I adore this time of the year! The weeks before Christmas have a special feel of their own and I just can�t wait to go hunting for presents for the whole family. When time is precious and the crowds fill the stores, what better way than to shop from the comfort of your own home by browsing the web. There is a wealth of Christmas presents on the Internet, with many sites offering good deals. We must remember that there are still birthdays to be celebrated at this time of year and other special occasions and I have made a selection offering ideas for all sorts of gifts. But also for other occasions I have found a lot of ideas for nice gifts. I have made a small selection to give you an idea:
Your name is a gift
My young kids love puzzles. A great personalized gift for a kid is a puzzle with their name. I have already given these to my kids and their friends so I know they are a big hit. People love to see their names on presents. In my father�s family it is a tradition to give a silver soup spoon to the newborn babies with their names engraved on it. We used to hang them in the kitchen and visitors would always comment on how special such a gift is.
Put your gifts in a basket
Gift baskets are very popular. There are simply tons of websites where you can choose gift baskets for any occasion, from birthdays and baby showers to wedding anniversaries and job promotions. It is an ideal way to present various little gifts and most people like to unpack several small presents. While gift baskets make wonderful presents, they can be very expensive and tend not to be very personal. That�s why I enjoy putting together my own custom gift baskets for friends and family. And, of course, I shop online to find the gifts to fill my basket.
Unique gifts are a treasure
My wife always keeps a box full of unique gifts she finds on the web in a special box. She orders these gifts from all over the world and when it is somebody�s birthday or wedding anniversary she will remember the special treasure box and will get one of her special gifts out. Sometimes it is a piece of nice jewelry, all the way from India, or a present for a child which isn�t available where we live. The Internet gives you access to all sorts of unusual and, often, hand-made presents.
Wacky gifts for golfers
It is easy to please golfing friends. They always need golf balls and you can buy cheap but good quality lake balls everywhere. I once received a golden tee, with my name engraved in it, from a friend and have always cherished it. Golf club money clips are also popular with golfers. A friend of ours, a keen golfer of course, once gave his wife a pair of sterling silver golf bag earrings. Some might call that tacky, but she loved them!
About The Author
Friday, April 25, 2008
No Need To Cry Over Lost Data Ever With Rollback Rx
No Need To Cry Over Lost Data Ever With Rollback Rx
by Jacob Henderson
Rollback Rx is the best system restore software to restore all your data back to you in minutes. File Recovery is a task that most computer users dread. After all, who wants to lose hours of hard work to an unexpected software failure or a virus attack? Rollback Rx lets you rollback to PC restore to the minute when your system failed you.
Rollback Rx Lets You Recover Files
Even if you have deleted a file by mistake, you can retrieve it. If you want to see the earlier version of a file you have changed, you can do so. Rollback Rx�s professional version lets you extricate the file from another snapshot of your system without the necessity of restoring computer to that snapshot. Because Rollback Rx is extremely flexible, you can look for a particular file, a file type or a directory within the snapshot. Then you can move the files to another location or restore them to the original location.
Suppose you have made changes to a file that you would like to undo, you can use Rollback Rx to revert the file to its earlier version without the changes from a range of snapshots, which may contain this file. What if you don�t remember the name of the folder or file you want to recover? You can still browse the snapshot as virtual drives and then choose the file or folder to recover from the browse window. Rollback Rx provides virtual drives for the snapshot and then displays the drives just like you see in Windows Explorer. After you browse the virtual drives, you can choose the file or folder you want to retrieve.
The Snapshot Principle
Rollback Rx�s very first snapshot of your system after you install it is the baseline. This could be the base configuration of your computer. Various snapshots would have been taken in the course of installing many programs and adding data. But sometimes, to fix computer problems, you might feel like doing a PC restore back to the original state in which your computer was. The baseline reset lets you restore computer settings to this baseline, which is the foundation for all succeeding snapshots. If you want to update this baseline after say, a system upgrade involving operating system change or new service packs, you can update the earlier baseline to the baseline corresponding to the most recent system configuration. Rollback Rx has a detailed logging system, which keeps track of all the program activities so that you can use the data for troubleshooting or for system management. This is especially useful when there are software failures, when you would like to analyze the cause of the problem.
About The Author
Rollback are available at http://www.horizondatasys.com/Default.aspx.
http://www.horizondatasys.com/195837.ihtml
http://www.horizondatasys.com/169614.ihtml
A New Invention Idea Comes From Original Thinking
A New Invention Idea Comes From Original Thinking
by Daniel Travers
When we talk of inventions which have either touched or changed our lives, we often praise the inventor for "thinking out of the box." How do these people think of a new invention idea by thinking out of the box? Is it possible for you and me to do it too? To know this we have to know what the "box" is so that we can think beyond it. The "box" is the way things are, and the way we have been tutored to view things. There are several factors which determine the way we look at things. Thus the first step to start thinking beyond the normal is to identify and challenge our own views and perceptions.
The entire process of challenging preconceived notions, established norms and usual assumptions is a very powerful and creative way to solve a problem, because walking on the much-treaded patch is safe, though boring. For instance, when you think of a domestic air-conditioner, what are the assumptions? Cooling, auto switch off, silent, it has to run on electricity, and so on. What if someone thought of ways to manufacture an air-conditioner which ran on something else which is more organic and saved on power consumption? Another way to think of a new invention idea is to think the very absurd. One needs a very open mind for this as the process can both be fun as well as irritating. There could be hundreds of completely absurd solutions to a problem, but one of them could be a genuinely new invention idea. Start with a "what if" question and you will be surprised at the number of absurd answers you could arrive at.
There is a literal way of thinking out of the box and that is to get out of your home or office and watch the way people live, behave and communicate. The story of the shoe salesman comes to mind. This man went to Africa to sell shoes, a country where people never wore them. By thinking out of the box, he thought of the idea of selling his first pair to a curious buyer by highlighting its heat resisting abilities and ensuing comfort to his feet. The shoe salesman soon opened shop and became a millionaire. There are many stories like this and as the saying goes, you can actually sell a refrigerator to an Eskimo, provided you can invent some way to convince him of its utility.
Concepts like division, subtraction, temperature control, colorful all trigger great invention ideas; make a large table foldable to make more space for utility purposes; take away two legs from another to enable faster cleaning; add color to domestic utility items and make them inter-changeable; ideas like these will flow once you think deeper and harder at the common daily objects and ideas for new inventions will be a knock away!
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Creative Tips for Throwing Amazing Parties
Creative Tips for Throwing Amazing Parties
by Linda Kevich
We�ve all been to parties that have that certain something-special that makes them stand out in our memories as being truly fabulous. Of course, to have a great party, you need to start with great guests. Assuming you have that part covered, often it comes down to all of the little party details to really make a party special.
Here are a few fast but fabulous tips to put your parties on the map:
- Freeze strawberries or raspberries, then pop them into glasses of white wine or champagne for a dash of "bling". The berries will kick it up a notch with a splash of color and class, and will inject an element of unexpected surprise.
- If the lavatory your guests will visit during the party has a bathtub, glam things up by filling the tub with water, then float the heads of oodles of large scented flowers in it. Roses, gerbera daisies, mums, and carnations are all good choices. The stunning visual impact of this will knock the socks of your guests - and the room will smell amazing.
- Pick up simple store-bought cakes at the local grocery, then give them the high-end, lavish look of expensive custom cakes by embellishing them with fresh, non-poisonous flowers such as roses, pansies, or naustrusium.
- To encourage mingling at a cocktail party, limit the number of seats so that guests don�t just plunk themselves down in one spot for the entire night. Some seating is, of course, necessary for those with weary feet, but there should be substantially fewer seats than guests if you want to keep things lively.
For more lots more terrific ideas for entertaining and party planning, visit http://www.CreativeHomeStyle.com OR head over to http://www.SuperWeddings.com for creative wedding planning ideas, inspiration and how-to advice.
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About CreativeHomeStyle.com: CreativeHomeStyle.com is a free online source of creative ideas and inspiration for a blissful home life. Get the most of daily living with stylish ideas for decorating, gardening, and entertaining, how-to-advice, free recipes, and craft projects. Live the life you love at CreativeHomeStyle.com
Copyright (C) 2006 by Linda Kevich. All Rights Reserved. Permission is granted to re-reprint this article provided it's contents and by-line / resource box remain fully intact and are not altered in any way. This article may not be changed, modified, or edited in any manner unless express permission by the author is granted in writing.
Scan The System For Spyware - Frequently
Scan The System For Spyware - Frequently
by Arvind Singh
Spyware installs itself on the system and runs in the background. This slows the system down a great deal. Spyware also makes entries in the registry files. This must be removed with spyware removal programs.
By frequently adding and removing software and hardware from the system may make the system more and more sluggish over time. The system may become slow to the point of being annoying. Yet when the system was new it ran perfectly. There are many answers to why this happens. The system may be infected with viruses that are filling up the resources by replicating themselves or there may be Spyware operating in the background. These Spyware can wreck havoc with the system time by delaying the response of the processor to the programs that are running in front. One other possible reason could be that the registry has gotten full of obsolete entries and references that installing programs and hardware make in the registry. These entries are not removed when the programs or hardware are uninstalled. This has to be done manually or with any free Spyware removal tool made for the very purpose.
Use Software, Do Not Delve Into The Registry Manually
It is incorrect to assume that by uninstalling software from the system all the entries in the system pertaining to the software are removed. Nothing can be further from the truth. Many traces or entries of the uninstalled software or Spyware may be left behind in the system registry, either intentionally or unintentionally. These obsolete entries or references in the registry clutter up the system to such an extent that the system may crash and cause tremendous loss of data. A wake up call is the system slowing down and acting erratically. On such signs you should get some free anti-Spyware removal tool in addition to the anti virus software and scan the system for Spyware that may have installed itself on your system. Many anti virus packs come with software but it you do not have any it may do a world of good to get some anti-Spyware. After running the free anti-Spyware removal tool run the registry cleaner any free registry cleaner to remove all instances form the system registry.
Manual cleaning of the registry is very complicated as well as dangerous because if a wrong file is deleted the system may shut down and not boot up again unless the Operating System is reinstalled. It is for this reason that registry cleaners are designed. They do a great job in a few seconds and leave the system running more efficiently and fast. If your system has been running sluggishly lately. Run a registry cleaner after the anti-Spyware and it will surely be a pleasure to work on the system again.
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To know about the Registry Cleaner visit at: http://www.pcmantra.com/registry-cleaner.htm
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The Art of Watermelon Carving
The Art of Watermelon Carving
by Suzanne Macguire
Fruit carving is one of the oldest traditions followed in the Oriental countries, China, Japan, Thailand and some Asian countries in particular. This artistic tradition generally centers on some festivities where the beautiful sculptures draw the attention of the people. In fact carving of fruits is an exquisite work of art. In China, watermelon carving is the most popular. Fruit carving can also be done on such fruits as carrots, papaya, pumpkins and other smaller fruits for carving individual items. But watermelon carvings appear to be highly attractive on account of its varied colors and size. The contrasting colors of melons lend a striking effect to the finished product, making them all the more appealing.
Prior to the execution of your carving skill, it is essential to make all the proper arrangements. A good carving knife with a single sharp pointed blade is a must- have in this case. Carving on a watermelon is done in a relief format; it can be just a simple cut out or carry an intricate engraving. This Chinese artistic sculpture is of ancient origin that has been passed down through the generations. In modern days, this wonderful tradition has found great recognition and popularity throughout the world. The varying tones and colors of watermelons (pink, white, green) work wonders to give a contrasting effect to the sculptures.
Watermelon sculptures can turn out to be the cynosure for any occasion or international event. This artwork can be exhibited at any cultural platform to showcase some wonderful talents. The carvings done on the watermelons are endless, ranging from teapots to flower vases, to little animals or even trophies. These amazing designs are carved out using carving tools and melon ballers. The carving tool is used to cut out intricate patterns while the melon baller scoops out larger sections. The melon baller is particularly helpful in carving out large unique shapes such as a fish, basket or fruit holder. The watermelon rind is very easy to cut into and amateurs can begin with cutting the rind to create large designs.
Watermelon carving can be a great fun with the kids too. In fact, being an excellent source of vitamins and a tasty fruit, kids can have a great time learning this art and absorbing the benefits of this fruit. This unique art sculpture should be encouraged among the children not only to propagate and keep alive the ancient tradition but also to give way to the creation of masterpieces of the future.
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Find Top Quality FREE Audiobooks
Find Top Quality FREE Audiobooks
by Steve J Cowan
Audiobooks have, over the past few years, become an amazing success story, even though the recording of the spoken word, as opposed to music, has been around for over 100 years.
Indeed, it is fair to say that audiobooks have really brought the recorded spoken word into the public consciousness, even though a substantial portion of our cultural heritage from the last century is already recorded in enormous collections of spoken word materials.
Unfortunately, a large percentage of these historical audio tracts are hidden away in private collections, museums and so on, representing huge quantities of priceless historical artifacts that are currently unavailable to academics, scholars and the like.
Nevertheless, audiobooks have brought spoken word recordings to the attention of the audio loving public over the past few years, so, why have they become so popular, and why now?
Answering that, the wrong way around, 'why now' can be answered with two simple words - mp3�s and the internet.
Mp3 recording technology is only 30 years old, but it began to revolutionize worldwide listening practices almost as soon as it was invented, simply because it reduced massive digital sound files down to manageable levels.
Generally, mp3 files are twelve times smaller than other audio and video file types, because they get rid of all the sounds from the original recording that are beyond human hearing.
The internet is a perfect tool for working with these mp3�s, allowing anyone with a connection to instantly download mp3 files, and then play them back on their PC, on a mobile mp3 player or on a standard CD, after the mp3 is burned on to it.
Of course, all of the above applies equally well to music or to audiobooks, so why the current boom in audiobooks?
Well, audiobooks have many in-built advantages over their written page counterparts. Some of these advantages are:
� They take up no space on your shelves or in your home. Perhaps an important factor at a time when average living spaces are gradually becoming smaller.
� They have no weight or bulk. An audiobook is nothing more than a digital file, so that you can conveniently carry it around with you on a mobile mp3 or CD player.
� They are not easily damaged. There are no pages to be ripped or worn out.
� They allow you to 'multi-task', which is becoming an ever more important requirement of every day life. You can dig the garden, walk the dog, and go to the mall, all whilst listening to an audiobook.
Effectively, an audiobook offers all of the advantages and benefits of a written word book such as being able to improve oneself through further education, or to catch up with literary classics that you somehow missed, all without the downsides of a large, bulky book
Another great advantage of audiobooks, and perhaps the best reason for the current audiobook explosion, is that there are lots of sources to find completely free books all over the internet.
Compare that to your local book store. When was the last time they gave you something for free?
By simply running a search through any of the major search engines, you would be able to turn up many, many sites giving away free audiobooks. Obviously, this ability to get free samples before deciding whether to invest you�re hard earned cash in audiobooks is a major plus point.
There are, however, two points to draw to your attention about many of the free audiobook download sites.
First, many of the sites offer the audiobooks for free for one reason. The quality of the recording and (often) the reading is so poor that no-one would ever consider paying for it!
Second, many of the texts that are read to create these audiobooks are open source works, meaning that there either never was a copyright on the title, or that it has expired. In either case, we are talking about a very old works that are usually very average indeed (otherwise, they would have a value, and still be copyrighted!)!
Audiobooks are definitely something that you should try if you have not already done so, especially as you can get great quality titles for free.
But, just make sure to look for good quality audiobooks for your first taster of exactly what they have to offer, and you cannot go far wrong.
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