Creative Marketing Ideas For Hardware Stores

With large nationwide chains that dominate the market, small hardware stores sometimes have a difficult time being competitive. The key is to find a unique selling proposition for your business and to capitalize on it so customers see the value in choosing you over one of the bigger stores. Here are some great ways to make your business stand out.

1. Giveaways-When your store first opens (or even if you're just looking for an extra push), offer small giveaways to your customers with their purchase. These will be tools or products they can use that are branded with your store's information-hammers, tape measures, levels, etc. When a customer is using this product and runs out of something or determines the need to visit a hardware store, they'll see your information and immediately head your way!


2. In-Store Classes-Hardware stores often form a bit of a culture and social atmosphere, so find ways to play this up. One great choice is to sponsor training classes and educational seminars in your store. Work with your vendors to provide information that your customers will find valuable. Even your employees can instruct these classes-anything from minor home renovation products to full-scale remodeling. List the classes you're offering that month above your cash registers with a large, visible vinyl banner which clearly-informs customers of their opportunities to expand their skills.


3. Charity Donations-Offer your products to charity groups and organizations in-town which build or repair homes for the less-fortunate. This is great PR for your business, it makes you look more-credible, and in return you're often able to advertise at the home-site using a banner or yard sign. When customers see that you're giving back to your community, they are more-inclined to shop with you.


4. Ladies Night-Most hardware stores predominantly-market towards men. While the majority of your customers are probably male, don't neglect the ladies. Host a "Ladies Night" at your store that offers your educational classes and even a special discount on purchases made by women. Use removable window clings to give your store a slight feminine touch. There's a huge potential market here that is somewhat-untapped, and with the right approach, female customers can dramatically affect your business.


5. Personal Shoppers-Some customers complain that hardware or home improvement stores are overwhelming. Counter this objection by providing customers with a personal shopping service. Your employees already help customers find products daily anyway, but creating a formal program provides a revenue opportunity. Customers can have one of your employees guide them around the store and help them find exactly what they need for their project, or for even-more convenience, your employee can preselect the products they need so that when the customer arrives, all they have to do is check out.

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Creative Marketing Ideas For Hardware Stores

Creative Marketing Ideas For Hardware Stores

Michael Allen works as a Director of Marketing in Boston, Massachusetts. He has worked with both large companies and small local businesses for over 20 years. His vast experience in the field of marketing positions him as an expert in helping businesses expand by using marketing tactics.

As a seasoned expert in Marketing and Branding, Michael has a wealth of knowledge in the use of car signs and retail signs. In his articles, he covers tips and techniques for effective use of window clings, vinyl decals, and vinyl banners for small businesses.

Creative Marketing Ideas For Bookstores

The most-successful bookstores are the ones that encourage customers to spend time in the store. By creating an experience for your customers, you're becoming more than just a store; you're part of your customers' lifestyle. Unique and outside-the-box marketing techniques are the tool for taking your store from just a quick stop to a place to spend the day.

1. Coffee - Books and coffee go hand-in-hand. The smell of freshly-roasting coffee (and baked goods) creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes customers want to curl up in one of your chairs and read a book. Every good bookstore should offer beverages-make sure you have more than just coffee for those who don't like it.


2. Book launch parties - Host a release party for highly-anticipated books. Welcome customers and their families, who will be eager to be among the first people in the area to purchase the new book. Plan activities and games that are related to the subject of the book, and provide refreshments for your customers while they browse through the aisles. Hang vinyl banners up in your store letting customers know when the book will be released so they can mark their calendars for the launch event.


3. College discount programs - College textbooks are a huge market, and a great way to capitalize on them is by offering a discount program for college students. Textbooks are incredibly-expensive, so by showing you're willing to make a little less money on each one, you'll gain a lot of new customers-both students and their parents. Most campuses have their own bookstore, so going through the college probably isn't the best approach, but contact student groups and post vinyl decals in your store that let them know about your program.


4. Readings/signings - Signings are an always-effective tool for increasing traffic in your store. Contact lesser-known authors that have a loyal following, and encourage their readers to bring friends to the store to learn about the book and meet the author. Have book readings to bring in children and their parents. This shows that you support literacy in the community and the parents have an opportunity to shop your products while their kids are listening to the reading.


5. Donation programs - Another great way to show support for the community and boost your PR is to host book donation drives. Offer customers a percentage discount on a new book purchase when they bring you gently-used books, which you can donate to children's shelters, hospitals, etc. Use a banner outside your store, or even yard signs around your book donation parcels to let customers know where and when they can donate.

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Creative Marketing Ideas For Bookstores

Creative Marketing Ideas For Bookstores

Michael Allen works as a Director of Marketing in Boston, Massachusetts. He has worked with both large companies and small local businesses for over 20 years. His vast experience in the field of marketing positions him as an expert in helping businesses expand by using marketing tactics.

As a seasoned expert in Marketing and Branding, Michael has a wealth of knowledge in the use of car signs and retail signs. In his articles, he covers tips and techniques for effective use of vinyl decals, vinyl banners, and window clings for small businesses.

Five Dangerous Myths About Prescription Drugs

Every day doctors write prescriptions, many of them for standard ailments in modern American society: diabetes, high blood pressured, elevated cholesterol, and depression. Some of us have multiple doctors, from our primary care physician to orthopedic surgeons, GI specialists, and cardiologists. Americans spend more on healthcare and prescriptions than any other nationality, and some studies say seniors may be taking, on average, as many as 15 different prescriptions.

This sounds like a recipe for disaster. Drugs can interact with each other and even amplify or diminish the effectiveness of each other. Most of the stories we hear about celebrity overdoses list numerous central nervous system (CNS) depressants, which in combination can create a deadly cocktail. In fact, in the last decade prescription opiates have overtaken illegal drugs as a cause for emergency room visits.

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The fastest way to get into trouble with prescription drugs is to simply trust that they are fine as long as the doctor prescribed them. All drugs have side effects, and any drug can be dangerous if taken improperly.

Five Dangerous Myths About Prescription Drugs

Here are five myths about prescription drugs that could get you into trouble.

1. Drugs prescribed by your doctor are always safe

Drugs are drugs. They might be safer than street drugs because you can't control the quality of the latter, but many prescription drugs have a profound impact on the body and/or mind and their power should never be underestimated. Many drugs have later turned ou to be more harmful than helpful, so stay informed about reported side effects or problems with a specific drug you are prescribed.

This myth is the most common rationale for people abusing opiates. They believe they are not real drug addicts because a doctor prescribed them the pills. They will believe this even after resorting to doctor shopping to get more of the prescription than any single doctor could recommend.

2. I can take some of my friend's pain pills and it will be fine

Pills are prescribed for specific people. The doctor should take into consideration what other medications you are taking, any allergies or sensitivities you have, and in the case of opiates, drinking habits. Did you know many opiate painkillers include analgesics such as aspirin? If you are allergic to aspirin, and don't realize a particular pill contains it, you could find yourself in the emergency room.

3. I have no liability if I give my friend my bottle of leftover Vicodin

This is essentially prescribing medication without a medical license. Don't think this can't come back to haunt you. Did you know that you might have liability if that friend then drives after taking your Vicodin? Personal injury attorneys regularly look for opportunities to find deep pockets when a third-party is injured. In Massachusetts and a few other states, doctors who do not advise patients of the side effects of drugs (such as reduced ability to drive a motor vehicle) can be sued by third parties. By handing over your Schedule II narcotics you have essentially become a drug dealer.

4. I can drive after taking a prescription medication

Whether or not you can drive on your prescription medication depends on the side effects. Some drugs reduce your reaction time or may make you dizzy or sluggish. Some drugs will impair you as much as alcohol would. Most doctors will tell you to take a new prescription when you know you won't have to drive a car, so that you are aware of the effects it has on you and can assess if you indeed can drive after taking the drug. Opiates are one class of drugs that have dramatic effects on perceptions and reaction time, and you should not drive after taking them under any circumstance.

5. If my doctors prescribe me multiple medications, it's safe to take them all around the same time

Not necessarily. Let's say your primary care physician prescribes you one medication, your psychiatrist two others, and your orthopedic surgeon yet another. What if a few of these drugs are CNS depressants: an opiate painkiller, an anti-anxiety medication, and a sleeping pill. Taking all three of these around the same time could be dangerous; the higher the dose, the more risk. If you also drink alcohol you may be creating an even more lethal cocktail. CNS depressants do exactly what they say: they depress your central nervous system, which includes control over your respiratory system. Take too much, you stop breathing.

If you hold a deep respect for the powerful impact prescription medications can have on you, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the consequences of uninformed decisions. Some believe the modern world was made possible through the discovery of penicillin because antibiotics meant fewer deaths due to common infections and an overall healthier population. Prescription drugs can save lives. Taken incorrectly or without due consideration, they can also be deadly.

Five Dangerous Myths About Prescription Drugs

Vera Appleyard is an author and VP of Internet Marketing for Elements Behavioral Health. She has an MFA in Dramatic Writing from Tisch School of the Arts, New York University. She has worked in the addiction treatment field for 10 years and blogs about recovery from addiction at http://addiction-recovery-blog.com and http://www.addictiontreatmentmagazine.com

Creative Marketing Ideas For Shoe Stores

During an economic recession, the retail industry has taken a big hit as customers simply don't have as much discretionary income as they used to. Whether your shoe store is part of a large chain or is just a small independent retailer, you should always be on the lookout for new, interesting marketing ideas that can stimulate business. Here are some great ways to put your best foot forward.

1. In-store events- Customers need to know the benefits of your shoes, be it that they are edgy and fashionable or that they provide a comfortable walking experience. Hosting an in-store event like a fashion show or a teaching session will not only generate buzz and awareness for your store, but also sell a lot of shoes! Have your featured products fully-visible using a vertical banner or even a window cling so customers know which shoes they're going to learn about.


2. Loyalty cards- Most women have a shoe fetish, so create a loyalty program that keeps her coming back for more shoes. This could be a punch card or you could even use a computer-tracking system. After a certain amount of pairs purchased, your customer will receive a free (or at least discounted) pair. Not only do you sell more shoes, but you also retain loyal customers.


3. Shoe care- A great way to make your store more marketable is by offering shoe care services such as shining, stretching, and even minor repair. If you really want to offer a first-class experience, offer complimentary shoe repair services. You probably won't be able to do this in-store, but set-up an agreement with a local shoe hospital or cobbler. Your client will appreciate the VIP treatment, and this ensures they'll visit your store at least twice (once to drop off the shoes and again to pick them up). Odds are they'll find a new pair in at least one of those visits. Display vinyl decals at your cash wraps letting customers know these special services you offer, and make sure your sales team is mentioning it as well.


4. Sponsorship/donation- Sponsoring local events is a great way to build a positive business reputation. In exchange, you're usually able to advertise at these events with a vinyl banner or in the program. Another unique idea is to create a shoe-donation program. Work with charity groups such as the Salvation Army to donate a pair of shoes for every X amount you sell. This is a huge PR boost and makes your business socially-responsible. It has certainly worked for TOMS.


5. Family bundles- If you are a shoe store that caters to all customers (men, women, and children), create a family bundle package. Offer a special discount when customers buy a pair of shoes for every member of the family, or even have a buy one-get one special. You're a one-stop shop for the family, but it may take a special deal for customers to realize that.

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Creative Marketing Ideas For Shoe Stores

Creative Marketing Ideas For Shoe Stores

Michael Allen works as a Director of Marketing in Boston, Massachusetts. He has worked with both large companies and small local businesses for over 20 years. His vast experience in the field of marketing positions him as an expert in helping businesses expand by using marketing tactics.

As a seasoned expert in Marketing and Branding, Michael has a wealth of knowledge in the use of car signs and retail signs. In his articles, he covers tips and techniques for effective use of banners, vinyl decals, and window clings for small businesses.

Reaching Out! Community Program Ideas for Healthcare Facilities

Community programming is instrumental to enhancing the services of any activity department. With the implementation of the 2006 revised CMS Activities Guidance to Surveyors, there is a heightened focus on the individual needs and interests of the residents. Involving local communities and volunteers is an essential part of establishing a well-balanced, diverse program of activities. There are many organizations, clubs, and associations that can be contacted. Ask them to post an announcement in their newsletter, bulletins, flyers, or bulletin board, or announce at their next meeting, that community groups and volunteers are needed at your facility. Inform them of your specific needs i.e. you need a volunteer that speaks German that can read to a resident or you would like a volunteer who can do arts and crafts. Other methods of recruitment include word of mouth, media coverage, on-line, family members and visitors, community fairs/events and mailings.

Often times, Activity Directors are given the responsibility of developing and managing the volunteer and community outreach program. It can become overwhelming. Activity Directors often do not pursue volunteers and community groups because of the extensive work that goes into it. There is ongoing research, organization, planning, implementation, and follow-up. For that reason, it is suggested that each facility have a Volunteer Coordinator or someone who is primarily assigned to manage these responsibilities. But since it is not common practice to have a separate Volunteer Coordinator, here are some ideas and suggestions that will help you reach out to the community and expand your volunteer program.

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School System

Reaching Out! Community Program Ideas for Healthcare Facilities

• Pen Pal Programs
• Adopt-A-Resident Program
• Educational Opportunities for the students (students may learn about Ellis Island, WWII, the Depression, etc.)
• Volunteer opportunities (Key Club, course requirements, independent volunteer services)
• Entertainment (school choir, bands, dance groups, drama club, art, poetry, specialty groups)
• Sporting events
• Special education opportunities (volleyball game with DD adolescents)
• Intergenerational Programs (holiday activities, craft projects, physical games, discussion groups)
• Cultural Clubs (Spanish, Italian, African American etc.)
• Day Care children
• College internships/field experience

Churches/Synagogues

• Rosary Groups
• 1:1 Communion (Sundays)
• Adopt-A-Resident Program
• Outreach programs (donations, community services)
• Choirs
• Bible Study
• Church intergenerational programs
• Independent volunteer opportunities
• Confirmation requirements
• Rabbi Visits
• Church Services

Community Groups

• Community public relations opportunities
• Cub/Boy/Eagle Scouts community service (special/holiday events)
• Brownies/Girl Scouts Community Service (special/holiday events)
•Clubs (VFW, Elks, Masons, Kiwanis Club, Eastern Star, 4-H, American Legion, Knights of Columbus, Lions, Chambers of Commerce)
• Cultural Clubs (Italian American Independent Club, Hispanic, Polish etc.)
• YMCA/YWCA
• YM-YWHA (Hebrew Association)
• Salvation Army
• Historical Society presentations
• United Way
• Joint community fundraising or community service programs (toy Drives, food drives, raffles, car washes, etc.)
• Local dance groups/troupes
• Senior dancers
• Independent volunteer opportunities
• LTC resident service projects for the above mentioned groups

It is also important to bring the residents into the community as well. Before doing so, establish a well-developed policy and procedure that outlines all aspects of the outing, especially what to do in the case of an emergency or missing resident. Check with the desired site before bringing the residents to ensure appropriate parking, wheelchair accessibility, bathrooms, process, etc. There are so many places that you can bring the residents. Check the local newspapers for community events, special deals, and coupons. Assign a resident or group of residents browse the weekly newspapers.

Some ideas include: community/school sporting events, parks and recreation, community flea markets, festivals, music events, movie theater/plays, local restaurants, historical sites/museums, zoos, visits to other facilities or organizations, churches, synagogues and other places of worship, school events and so on.

Organizing a community outreach program is an ongoing process and requires an abundance of creativity, time and commitment. Utilize as many resources as possible and don't hesitate to ask community groups and individuals to volunteer. By "reaching out" you will greatly enhance the lives of the residents in your healthcare facility.

Reaching Out! Community Program Ideas for Healthcare Facilities

Kimberly Grandal, Founder and Executive Director of Re-Creative Resources, Inc., is a strong advocate for the field of Therapeutic Recreation and Activities, with over eighteen years of experience working with the elderly in numerous management and consultant positions. She is an Activity Consultant Certified and a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. She is a recipient of the Kessler Institute of Rehabilitation 1997 Triumph of the Human Spirit Award.

Kim is a member of NJAPA, NJ/EPA-TRA and COAP and serves on the NJAPA board as the Chairperson for the Legislation Committee. She is the Government Relations liasion for NCCAP and the President Elect for NJ/EPA TR Association. Kim is a speaker for various national, state and local activity associations and other health care groups. She also provides consultation and support to numerous facilities in the state.

Kim is the editor and writer for the "The Rec-Room", a monthly newsletter published by her company. In addition, she writes monthly articles for Activity Directors Today newsletter, and has contributed articles to Creative Forecasting Magazine, Current Activities in Long Term Care Magazine and The Continuing Care Insite newsletter and many other online sources. For more information visit http://recreativeresources.com

Making a Custom Aluminum Dashboard

Are you a proud owner of a Moto Guzzi 'Jackal'? Well, then you are likely to be an envy of many. But if you missed out on the benefits of a tachometer, you might just go by the sound and feel of the engine whether or not it was happy with the revs you are using during changing up or down the box. We can forgive you if you are clueless as to what those revs actually were.

Used motorcycle parts like a tachometer could really be a beneficial thing to improve the general condition of your Moto Guzzi motorcycle. However, new or second-hand Cali EV dash is not that easy to get hold of. Given this difficulty, you could produce a new dashboard for yourself. You could even produce a better dashboard than the original Jackal item.

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Itching to start already? First, you must get a bit of 4mm thick 1050-H14 aluminium (BS 1470), (99.5% pure aluminum, a bit of wet & dry sandpaper, a couple of drills and a counter sinker for the warning light cluster / mounting screw holes. If you decide to do the cutting yourself, you need basic hand tools, drill, hole cutter for 85mm diameter holes, a small band saw few files and a couple of medium / fine flap wheels for finishing off the edges and for doing the brushed satin finish. Water Jet Cutting, Plasma Cutting, Laser Cutting, CNC Milling are several ways of manufacturing the aluminum. You can choose any method feasible for you and that which will create smooth results for your dash..

Making a Custom Aluminum Dashboard

Here are the steps in cutting out your dash from http://www.webbikeworld.com/Moto-Guzzi-motorcycles/dashboard-tachometer/:

1. Mark out the plate, including profile and hole centres

2. Centre-pop all of the hole centres

3. Centre-pop the holes using sharp centre-pop. A light tap should do it.

4. Pilot drill each hole centre using something like a 1/16th drill

5. Cut the 85mm holes

6. Use the trepanner / tank cutter or an 85mm hole saw.

7. Drill the warning light and mounting holes. De-burr.

8. Finish off the warning light holes using a bit of wet & dry for a clean edge to the holes.

For the underside of the dash:

1. Cut out the profile using a hacksaw / bandsaw / plasma cutter

2. Smooth off and finish off the edges

3. Use file, wet & dry, wire wool, flap wheel to remove cutting marks

4. Bend the 'mounting lugs' to the correct angle using the original dash as a pattern

5. To surface finish, hold the drill with both hands and ran the flap wheel down the dash in one smooth, even stroke, starting at one side.

Finish-off by getting some Methylated spirit and de-grease the dash, taking care not to leave any finger marks. Then, spray with a few coats of acrylic lacquer. For fitting and connections, the speedo cable fits fine. The article "Install a rev counter on your motorcycle" at http://www.articlecity.com/articles/auto_and_trucks/article_195.shtml may help you with the wiring and the fitting of the dash. You'll find it complicating but once you've finished, you'll be even prouder of having your Moto Guzzi motorcycle with its new dashboard!

Making a Custom Aluminum Dashboard

Lala C. Ballatan is a 26 year-old Communication Arts graduate, with a major in Journalism. Right after graduating last 1999, she worked for one year as a clerk then became a Research, Publication and Documentation Program Director at a non-government organization, which focuses on the rights, interests and welfare of workers for about four years.

Book reading has always been her greatest passion -- mysteries, horrors, psycho-thrillers, historical documentaries and classics. She got hooked into it way back when she was but a shy kid.

Her writing prowess began as early as she was 10 years old in girlish diaries. With writing, she felt freedom – to express her viewpoints and assert it, to bring out all concerns -- imagined and observed, to bear witness.

For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.motorcyclepartsbin.com

Top Companies Offering Aftermarket Car Warranties

Aftermarket car warranties extend warranty coverage for vehicle repairs after the factory warrant expires. An aftermarket auto warranty is especially important to have when purchasing a car with high mileage. The price of the warranty depends on the age of the vehicle as well as the mileage. But which company offers the best deal? Here are top companies offering aftermarket car warranties.

Stop Repair Bills offers affordable service contracts personalized to fit your needs with flexible payment plans. 24-hour roadside assistance, towing and rental car are part of the package.

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Fidelity Automotive Solutions offers three different plans to help the buyer find the right coverage for their needs and budget.

Top Companies Offering Aftermarket Car Warranties

Warranty Direct, a company with 30 years of experience, provides quality customer service along with benefits such as trip interruption protection.

AA Auto Protection customizes aftermarket car warranties for your budget.

Automotive Protection Group has low monthly premiums and allows the buyer to decide the deductible, along with some of the most affordable rates in the industry.

Carchex offers comparison shopping deals to keep the buyer informed about all of the available options.

Auto Warranty Elite provides nationwide coverage and lockout/lost key assistance.

Auto Warranties.com offers aftermarket car warranties on any year, make or model vehicle regardless of the mileage.

Total Car Warranty is a transferable warranty and provides anytime warranty protection cancellation.

Auto Protection offers aftermarket warranties for sports cars even if the car is not currently covered by the factory warranty.

When buying a used car, be sure to get an aftermarket car warranty. The coverage costs save the buyer up to half as much as a manufacturer's warranty and offer a variety of plans customized to fit each individual customer. Don't be left with a dead or dying car and no way to repair it.

Top Companies Offering Aftermarket Car Warranties

Tim is a web developer, musician and author who writes on subjects such as aftermarket car warranties and automotive extended warranties.

El Camino Profile

One of the most popular and recognizable vehicles in the history of the automotive industry is the EL Camino. The EL Camino was manufactured and distributed by Chevrolet and was first released to the market in 1959. The production of the vehicle stopped in 1960 but then resumed in 1964 and lasted until 1987. It is an easily recognizable vehicle that is in the class of the coupes and is also known as the Chevrolet Conquistador in the country of Mexico. It was manufactured in response to the popular Ford Ranchero and was sold under four different models known as the Super Sport, the Royal Knight, the Conquista and the El Camino.

The EL Camino also had a twin known as the GMC Sprint and then later as the GMC Caballero. The El Camino is a two door vehicle with a bed behind the cabin where the passengers sit. The bed is not as large as a bed in a pickup truck but still has enough room in it for some storage capacity. The platform for all four generations of the EL Camino is an A-body style. The vehicles were produced at one time or another in Atlanta, Georgia; Baltimore, Maryland; Fremont, California; Framingham, Massachusetts; Kansas City, Missouri; Arlington, Texas; Flint, Michigan; Van Nuys, California; Doraville, Georgia; Leeds, Missouri; Ramos Arizpe, Mexico and Oshawa, Ontario, Canada.

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The El Camino did not fare well at all on the market with its competition, the Ford Ranchero, which is why Chevrolet discontinued producing the model in 1960. There were only 22,246 vehicles produced in 1959 and did even worse in 1960 when only 14,163 vehicles were produced. A total of 36,409 vehicles were produced by Chevrolet during the first generation of the El Camino. The three engines used in the first generation of the El Camino were the inline-6, the 4.6 L V-8, and the 5.7 L V-8. There are hundreds of El Caminos still on the roads today driven by people all across the country. They have declined in popularity and have not been manufactured since 1987. There aren't any new vehicles on the roads today but people continue to sell their El Camino for its historical value. People purchase these vehicles to not only drive them but to also remodel them or supe them up and enter them in car shows. El Caminos are also used in certain driving venues today. These cars have also been replicated in the toy collector world by Hot Wheels, Matchbox, and Johnny Lightning.

El Camino Profile

The El Camino was such a popular vehicle and still is today that it has been a major part of popular culture. El Caminos have been used in television shows such as M y Name is Earl, Monster Garage, Pimp My Ride, That 70's Show and Knight Rider. The El Camino has also been featured in such movies as Dazed and Confused, Joe Dirt, Exit Wounds, The Mexican, The Banger Sisters and many more. General Motors considered producing a Pontiac G8 Concept Truck but declined the idea because of their financial problems.

El Camino Profile

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DORF Spells Doom for Detroit

The other day my wife and I talked about summer camps. We want our children in busy learning spaces when school vacates. For some reason the subject reminds me of a New Hampshire camp where I worked during the summers of graduate school. Every morning at camp, the grounds crew would empty trash barrels. Driving the old, dented pick-up truck made this job fun. As they drove past, I noticed that someone changed the chrome letters to read "DORF" instead of Ford.

Dorf has no definition. It suggests goofy; for the camp pick-up truck, it described a poor-running, smokey, rusty, mechanical nuisance. Ford and GM have designed vehicles with mechanical panache. Corvette, Impala, and Country Squire were the cars of my youth. Their look made drivers proud when the price of gasoline did not matter.

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As a high school senior, I drove a 1950 convertible Chevrolet with Dynaflow. I loved the smell of the interior, the sound of the automatic transmission, and the convertible top that needed pushing and pulling during sudden down pours. My grandfather drove a 1954 Cadillac as did my father. Long, sleek American cars lined lanes from New Haven to Newport Beach. Now, time, technology, unions, and quality turned consumers toward safer, fuel efficient cars from Honda, Toyoto, KIA,Subaru, Isusu and Hyundai (once the brunt of comedic joking). Foreign labor-cost advantages offered consumers better vehicles dollar-for-dollar.

DORF Spells Doom for Detroit

All of this spells doom for the dorfs of Detroit. For example, The Wall Street Journal's headlines of the past week describe the tension in GM's Boardroom.

• Foreign vehicles last longer with reliable performance. U.S. car-markers have a "worse-than-average" record.
• "Don't come to work; we'll still pay you as long as you stay here from 6AM to 2:30PM": Cost .4billion to US automakers
• Malcolm Bricklin brings China's Chery Automobile, Inc. to the U.S. in 2007 to "steal" GM customers.
• GM one year stock return: -48.4%
• GM ten year average stock return: -3.6%

U.S. companies once listed on the Dow Jones Industrial Average have disappeared; they are gone forever because of competition and poor management decisions. My father had a Nash for a few months. In July of 1930, Nash Motors was removed from the Dow (and again in 1939). Ever drive a Hudson (me neither)? In May of 1932, Hudson Motor was removed from the Dow. Chyrsler had its problems and was removed from the Dow in June of 1979. Could GM be far behind? Detroit may soon become the American car industry's museum.

DORF Spells Doom for Detroit

Ray Randall serves clients as a registered investment advisor with his firm, Ethos Advisory Services, Essex, Massachusetts Ethos Advisory Services. He has wide experience within the financial services industry, writes a weekly newsletter for http://www.ethosadvisory.com Ethos Advisory Services, and coordinates the developments at http://www.echievements.com Echievements.com. Ray holds a Masters Degree from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, Hamilton, MA. You may call Ray (617-275-5565).

Infertility Insurance - Limits, Mandates and ObamaCare - How to Pay For Infertility Treatment

Because infertility is a health problem it should be covered by your employer's group health plan. Well, it probably isn't - so you better check your policy details. Insurer's classify it as optional treatment, like liposuction or breast reduction surgery. If you're feeling the fears, anxiety, and mental weight of going month after month without becoming pregnant, you know it's a real and serious health problem.

Infertility Insurance - It's the Law in 15 States

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Before you panic, check for mandated infertility treatment in your state. Fifteen states have laws specifically requiring insurers to provide some coverage - most likely limited coverage - for infertility treatment. Here's the list: California, New York, Texas, Massachusetts, Illinois, Ohio, Connecticut, Georgia, Hawaii, Arkansas, Maryland, Montana, New Mexico, West Virginia and Rhode Island.

Infertility Insurance - Limits, Mandates and ObamaCare - How to Pay For Infertility Treatment

But if you're in one of these states, check the details about coverage limits because they vary greatly - some really generous and some ridiculously limited. More advanced treatments such as IVF and egg donation may not be covered. And even if you live in a state mandating liberal coverage, your group health plan may be excluded under the law because your employer is a small company. Or the definition of infertility may exclude your case - really, check the law.

No Mandated Coverage in Other States

In the 35 states without laws requiring infertility insurance coverage, you're dependent on the generosity of your employer's health plan. But only about one in four plans cover infertility treatment. Those plans impose limits on specific types of treatment or extent of treatment or dollar limits on treatments or drugs. So your out-of-pocket costs will probably be significant even if you have some coverage.

New Federal Health Care Law - ObamaCare

President Obama's health care initiative has been highly touted as a big improvement, a broad overhaul that will bring expanded coverage and fairness across the board. Maybe it will, but don't count on it to provide comprehensive infertility insurance coverage. Consider:

- If you need help now, or even next year, it won't help you. Some benefits in the law are in effect now, but the vast majority of changes to insurance coverage won't be implemented until 2013.

- Nothing in the new law's 2,000+ pages specifically addresses coverage for infertility treatment or implies mandated coverage for infertility. There may or may not be some coverage, we won't know until full details are worked out.

What to Do

Be realistic - you can only deal with the here and now. If the reality of infertility treatment cost is overwhelming and you are committed as a couple to having children, consider these steps:

- Get a realistic estimate of the likely costs for the full course treatment you will need.

- Carefully examine details of the insurance plans covering each of you to determine exactly what costs will be covered.

- If one partner's plan is more generous than the other's, consider shifting to the plan with better infertility coverage.

- Otherwise, you might consider changing jobs, if you have the opportunity to work for a company with especially generous insurance benefits.

- Finally, consider relocating to a state with better mandated coverage.

If none of those options are available, you will probably have to pay for infertility treatments from resources available to you. With the cost established, consider these possible sources:

- Your infertility clinic may offer payment plans or guarantees to cap your costs at a certain level. Carefully evaluate those plans before agreeing.

- If you have a flexible-spending account for health costs, it can be used to pay for infertility treatment.

- You can withdraw from your 401-K account, but beware of the tax bite you may incur.

- If you have lived in your home for a few years, you may have enough equity to get a home equity loan at a very favorable rate.

- Your parents (eager future grandparents) may be able and willing to help.

Infertility Insurance - Limits, Mandates and ObamaCare - How to Pay For Infertility Treatment

Donna Williams is a teacher and health educator with personal experience dealing with infertility issues. For more information about infertility insurance and specific advice on other infertility concerns, visit her website http://www.infertility-help-advice-answers.com - a resource for couples dealing with infertility issues.

Scientific Study Shows How To Stop Eye Disease - Proof That A Natural Extract Can Stop Eye Disease

A scientific study showed how it's possible to stop eye diseases. It is definitive proof that a naturally occurring substance could help stop some eye diseases.

A press release of July 31, 2007 by Sirtris Pharmaceuticals, Inc., which is a biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts and listed on the NASDAQ stock exchange as SIRT, focused on how it discovered a means to facilitate anti-aging; and specifically how to stop optic neuritis.

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The findings, which presented definitive proof that eye diseases may be stopped with a naturally occurring substance, appeared in an article entitled "SIRT1 Activation Confers Neuroprotection in Experimental Optic Neuritis, Shindler et al., 2007" that was published in The Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science Journal (IOVS), Volume 48, Number 8.

Scientific Study Shows How To Stop Eye Disease - Proof That A Natural Extract Can Stop Eye Disease

Optic neuritis is an eye disease, which affects the optic nerve comprised of axons emerging from the retina of the eye. The optic nerve carries visual information to the main visual nuclei, of which is primarily relayed to the outer layer of the occipital lobe of the brain; where the brain processes information into vision.

Swelling of the optic nerve can result in loss of vision more often than not because the inflammation results in destruction of the myelin sheath, which covers the optic nerve. Uninterrupted axonal damage often plays a role in neural destruction.

Optic neuritis is commonly linked to conditions including:

• Autoimmune disorders,
• Multiple sclerosis,
• Huntington disease,
• Infections, and
• Granulomatous diseases.

The scientific study at Sirtris showed, that by developing small molecule interference, eye diseases could be stopped. Sirtris hopes that he substance used in the scientific study will be approved by the FDA to treat diseases related to aging like Type II Diabetes and Macular Degeneration.

The scientific study showed that activating the SIRT1 gene, which is an enzyme in the sirtuin family, with SRT501 (resveratrol); optic neuritis be relieved. Sirtris presented pictures related to the microscopic analysis of the optic nerves of mice, which they performed; after the mice initially were induced to have optic neuritis, then anesthetized--and finally the mice had the nerves leading to the occipital injected with the SIRT1 formula.

Sirtris offered the results of the experiment as definitive proof that resveratrol could be associated with anti-aging, and that their SIRT1 a formula was a debilitating factor when used to deter some eye diseases.

Resveratrol was the agent to which the scientists assigned credit for activation of the anti-aging gene SIRT1 in mice; and they took it one step further by inferring that humans could generally, and conveniently, become accustomed to the adaptation of resveratrol as a neuroprotective agent against optic neuritis.

Therefore, Sirtris offered the study as proof that eye diseases associated with optic neuritis in humans could be stopped too, simply by using resveratrol.

The gradually loss of neurons associated with age may bring about a various debilitating neurological disorders, one of which is optic neuritis. One of the initial signs of multiple sclerosis is optic neuritis, and it's been associated with a reduction of mitochondrial function.

Sirtuin, which is a new class of enzymes and only recently discovered, appears to influence the aging process in test mammals, and Sirtris offered the study under review as proof that it increases the number and fundamental operation of mitochondria.

According to results of the scientific study, resveratrol is an SIRT1 activator and it fundamentally deterred losing retinal ganglion cells in test animals; thereby preserving axonal function in a pre-clinical model of optic neuritis.

A single intravitreal injection of SRT501, which is the proprietary resveratrol formula developed by Sirtris, was adequate for neuroprotection. What's more; the neuroprotective effect was proof that activation of SIRT1 was the reason for the significant results because that was how sirtinol, which is a SIRT1 inhibitor, was blocked.

Peter Elliott, Ph.D. said, "This work is significant because it shows that a SIRT1 activator is neuroprotective and thus has the potential to be therapeutic for a range of neurodegenerative diseases of aging."

Christoph Westphal, M.D., Ph.D., who was the Chief Executive Officer of Sirtris Pharmaceuticals, Inc. until April 2010; added, "These new data support our belief in SIRT1 as a therapeutic target for a broad range of diseases of aging including metabolic, mitochondrial, and neurological disorders."

Sirtris Pharmaceuticals, a biopharmaceutical company, is focused on inventing and developing proprietary small molecule drugs, which can be administered by physicians via intravitreal injection; and the research project under review in this expose' concerns their SRT501 resveratrol formula. Whether or not Sirtris plans to make their SRT501 formula available as an over-the-counter supplement remains to be seen.

But the question, which will remain unanswered in this editorial; is, "Can over-the-counter resveratrol stop many of the diseases that are associated with aging simply by taking a capsule of it once or twice a day, without a prescription from a medical doctor?"

Some of the diseases, which need to be considered in a future scientific study that could provide proof that such a miracle capsule would really work to stop eye diseases, include metabolic disorders such as:

• Type 2 Diabetes,
• Alzheimer's disease,
• Optic neuritis, and
• Macular degeneration.

The study wouldn't be limited to those diseases specifically, but it will look at overall general health of individuals.

People who would like to be candidates for such a study would have to understand that the nutritional supplements, one of which would include an over-the-counter formula with a substantial amount of resveratrol, would be formulated to mimic beneficial health effects that'd ultimately be equivalent to calorie restriction; without necessitating a change of eating habits.

Activation of the newly discovered class of enzymes, sirtuin, is the foundation upon which Sirtris has offered proof via several scientific studies; that resveratrol is an anti-aging agent. The company's headquarters are in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

The press release, upon which this article is based; contained forward-looking statements, which were contained in it that conform to the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Those statements included, but they weren't limited to, potential therapeutic benefits of resveratrol; and they have proof that it is an SIRT1 activator.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) hasn't evaluated the statements contained within this commentary. Over-the-counter resveratrol supplements are not intended to prevent, diagnose, cure or treat any disease.

The sole purpose of over-the-counter resveratrol is to activate the SIRT1 gene, which in theory would allow people to age normally without maladies commonly associated with getting older; so, as the scientific study discussed in this editorial shows, it's how some people might stop some debilitating eye diseases.

The information provided in this expose' is for educational purposes only. The information contained herein is not meant to be a substitute for medical advice of physicians, or the advice of which any other medical professionals might provide.

The accounts contained within this document shouldn't be used as a basis to diagnose or treat any health problem and/or disease; nor should any product containing resveratrol be used as a substitution for a medication that's been prescribed by your physician.

Be sure to read all product packaging and labels carefully. If you think that you could have a medical problem, promptly consult a physician or a health care provider.

February 17, 2011 Copyright of J. Michael Brown

Scientific Study Shows How To Stop Eye Disease - Proof That A Natural Extract Can Stop Eye Disease

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The 10 Best Pregnancy Tips

On the eve of my baby's due date, I am unable to sleep. With baby moving in my belly, Braxton Hicks contractions spontaneously occurring (that often render me helpless, like a beetle on it's back waving its legs), and the enormous pressure in my pelvis that whisks me off to the toilet only to expel an unimpressive thimble full of pee every 15 minutes...I reflect upon the following 10 best parenting advice and pregnancy resources I received.

Pregnancy Tip 1:

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Learn to love your belly: Strangers on the street exclaimed, "Wow! Are you big! Must be any day now," when I was a mere four months pregnant. After months of experiencing a pang of panic each time I caught a glimpse of my reflection, I finally came to love my belly in a pregnancy photo shoot my girlfriend gave to me. The photographer was so supportive that I finally began to see myself how others did--a beautiful pregnant woman.

The 10 Best Pregnancy Tips

Pregnancy Tip 2:

Beg and borrow maternity clothes: No matter how ugly and how huge some of the maternity pieces seem, accept them all. You truly don't know how big you may get and how comfortable those hideous panels might be later on. Put away your pre-pregnancy clothes once you grow out of them so you aren't constantly grieving the loss of your old wardrobe.

Pregnancy Tip 3:

Let go of your due date: Did you know only 4% of babies are born on their actual due date? Who knew! Once I found out that it is perfectly normal for a baby to arrive anytime between 37 and 42 weeks of pregnancy, I let go of my due date altogether and followed the scout motto of "be prepared" (at any time during that five week window).

Pregnancy Tip 4:

Learn to enjoy your admiring public: Yes, strangers will sometimes see your belly as public property and dish out a host of comments and advice. My husband helped me to start having fun with this new celebrity status. For instance after being annoyed by comments such as, "Looks like your due any time now!" my husband suggested I say things like, "Yup, any minute now!" or even joke, "Can you believe I'm not due for another 8 months?!" The fact of the matter is most people actually mean well--this milestone in your life brings up fond memories for them.

Pregnancy Tip 5:

Find a health care practitioner you love: The ups and downs of your pregnancy require special support and pregnancy resources. Find someone who welcomes your questions, puts your fears to rest and supports you in having the best pregnancy and delivery you can. For me I found this support in my midwives who gave me one hour session and even made house calls. Plus, once I found out my midwives' statistics on c-sections, forceps use and episiotomies I was hooked! Other friends hired a doula (birth coach), or had a doctor they loved, and were thrilled with the care they received.

Pregnancy Tip 6:

Listen and learn to trust your body: Surrendering to my cravings (turkey sandwiches with cranberry sauce and chocolate ice cream), the need of extra sleep (sometimes I would simply sit down to rest and suddenly wake up two hours later!) and being gentle with myself was what got me through.

Also, reading parenting books like The Girlfriends Guide... (for the humor and practicality), to fabulous hardcore midwifery books like Ina May's Guide To Pregnancy (my favorite) helped me to learn to trust my body more than ever before. These books (another good one was Birthing From Within) helped to dissolve many of my fears, as I learned things like no matter how big your baby is, babies heads are mostly around the same size, and are designed by nature to make the journey through the birth canal.

Pregnancy Tip 7:

Find other pregnant women and hang out with them: My pre-natal exercise class is a real pregnancy resource blessing. Not only am I getting fit but I found a sense of belonging, where I could really let my belly hang out with the best of them. Whenever I began to pity myself (like on an especially nauseous day) I would find another pregnant woman who was going through a tougher situation (like kidney stones or painful hemorrhoids!), or a real trouper in class would say something that lifted my spirits. Plus, by finding other pregnant women I saved my non-pregnant friends the hassle of listening to me share every play-by-play experience of my pregnancy--which likely saved a few of my friendships. ;-)

Pregnancy Tip 8:

Spend money only on the baby things that will make a real difference to you and borrow or buy the rest second-hand: Babies don't care about paint chips and décor, only about being close to the milk source--you! The fact they will rapidly grow out of any and all clothes helped put my priorities in order. So we splurged on the things that mattered to me: the stroller (as I am a huge walker), a safe car seat (for obvious reasons) and a rocker/glider (once I realized that I could be feeding up to twelve hours a day for the first six weeks).

The rest we either borrowed or bought second-hand, and we saved a mint! By getting so many great deals from places like eBay, and going to local 'mothers of multiples' sales I saved enough to put away for extra cleaning hours, and a special service to bring meals in during the first three months of our child's life.

Pregnancy Tip 9:

'Morning sickness' can happen at anytime!: Morning sickness can happen at any hour of the day, all day or not at all. Fortunately not often, it can even creep into the second or third trimester like it did with me.

Pregnancy Tip 10:

Everyone's experience of pregnancy is different, so take what is useful and ignore the rest: So many experiences and so many people dishing out advice. What I have observed is that pregnancy for the most part is the great equalizer--if you don't get something on one end you'll likely get something on the other. Fortunately, whatever our pregnancy experience may be, the majority of us end up with a little bundle of joy that makes the journey worth all the effort.
I am off to bed now to join my sleeping husband and my five pillows that prop up my bountiful belly, my buxom boobs and weary head. As I go off to sleep, I go with gratitude in my heart, knowing that soon we will be welcoming a beautiful new addition into our little family. This truly is the greatest parenting miracle of all.

The 10 Best Pregnancy Tips

Kelly Nault-Matzen, MA, family counselor, corporate parenting spokesperson and award winning parenting author of When You’re About To Go Off The Deep End, Don’t Take Your Kids With You shares time-tested tools that motivate children to want to be well behaved, responsible and happy! To gain access to more parenting tools and to access your free online parenting course visit http://www.ultimateparenting.com

7 Jobs That Provide A Company Car

Being provided with a company car is a great 'perk' of employment, and depending on which position an individual holds, can be utilized either on a part-time or full-time basis. Some of the jobs that offer a company car include the following:

1. Many upper-management, specifically, executive management positions, include the use of a company car, particularly those directly working for an automotive manufacturer or closely related to the industry. In these instances, it's the perfect way to increase their advertising as more of their cars are seen on the road. Another reason that is that, just as in some communities 'keeping up with the Jones' is a means of determining resident status in the neighborhood, members of the upper-Escalon of corporations are provided with company vehicles because they also need to 'keep up appearances'. A newer or luxury car represents success and in business, that's very important, especially in regard to their competitors.

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2. Jobs that require an employee to travel frequently often times provide the use of a company car. Corporations realize that it's not entirely fair to expect an employee who has to travel on regular basis, such as in the case of a sales or marketing position, to have to utilize their own vehicle. The company acknowledges the fact that these types of employees are required to travel frequently as part of their job and shouldn't have to bear the expense of maintenance and or fuel costs, in addition to wear on their personal vehicle, so they provide the individual with the use of a 'company' car.

7 Jobs That Provide A Company Car

3. Car dealerships usually provide their salesmen with the use of a company car. Along the same lines of an auto-industry executive, this is an excellent way for the dealership to advertise their vehicles and hopefully attract new customers. Additionally, if a salesperson is driving and is happy with the performance of the particular car they've been given to utilize, they'll have an advantage and the added benefit of first-hand knowledge about the vehicle when it comes time to make a sale.

4. Messengers and the sometimes affectionately referred to 'gophers' in a business environment are usually given use of a company vehicle, though mainly only during work-hours. These employees have to deliver and pick packages and drop off projects at printing, customer and other facilities in addition to any other off-site tasks the company requests of them such as running out for office supplies, food, etc.

5. A personal assistant who works directly for one individual whether in an office or private environment will be given the use of a company car because these types of positions require extensive traveling time on behalf of the employer's personal, as well as business, needs.

6. Federal and other-high ranking officials in the securities field are often times provided with a company vehicle because many of their duties require traveling to other counties, towns and even states.

7. Some miscellaneous service and labor positions such as construction, landscaping, plumbing companies, etc. give their employees the use of a company vehicle because there is usually a need to get a very early start, respond to emergency calls and also in lieu of the need to travel extensively to different locals on a regular basis as part of the business' services.

Keep in mind that if you are applying for a position that requires travel, whether frequent or infrequent, you can always try to negotiate for a company car during the interview process.

7 Jobs That Provide A Company Car

Gray Rollins is a featured writer for PaidToDriveReview.com - If you're looking to get paid to drive [http://www.paidtodrivereview.com/], then this is the site you want to visit. Also, learn how you can save money on gas.

Authorization Letters - How to Legally Authorize Something

Authorization Letters authorize someone to do tasks for you that normally require your presence to get them done. These tasks are more than picking up dry cleaning. They are used to authorize someone else to make important decisions for you. Take writing these letters very seriously. In order to have many important errands in life accomplished by others, a professional authorization must be written. Examples such as signing for important documents on a professional level or picking up children from day care on a personal level will definitely require these letters. Many establishments will have their own but some may ask that you draft one for them.

Wording

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1. Our example above words this letter professionally ensuring that whoever the reader happens to be will understand that this is strictly business.

Authorization Letters - How to Legally Authorize Something

2. In our letter, after the opening paragraph and list of items, we've remarked that the named person can make decisions for us but we gave a contact number for us in the event unforeseen events arise.

Format

1. Use the Full Block format arrangement for Authorization Letters:

a. to the left margin of the letter header place the return address

b. make two carriage returns

c. directly below the return address, place the date

d. make two carriage returns

e. directly below the date, place the reader's address

f. make three carriage returns

g. if necessary, include a reference line

h. begin your letter

i. begin each paragraph at the left margin

j. place the closing, signature and typed signature at the left margin.

Tone

1. Ensure your tone is professional and straightforward throughout the letter.

Email

1. With time being as critical to everyone as it is, sending an Authorization Letter via email is now becoming increasingly more accepted.

a. Send your letter in the same format as you would for snail mail - this conveys to the reader that you took the time to create a professional correspondence.

b. Depending on the circumstances, send the message from the appropriate email account: personal email account for a personal correspondence, professional email account for professional correspondence.

Printing

1. Before printing, decide on what paper to use. For Authorization Letters, common bond paper will work.

2. Print your letter and envelope on the same printer using the same font and an envelope that matches the stationery.

Signature

1. Make three carriage returns between the closing and your typed signature. Inside this space, sign your name for professional correspondence. For personal correspondence, there is no need for a typed signature. Simply, sign your name.

For samples of Authorization Letters, take a look at...

LetterRep.com.

Authorization Letters - How to Legally Authorize Something

Rob Noyes owns and operates the Internet's premiere Personal and Business Letter-writing site. LetterRep.com. Contact Rob at admin@letterrep.com for answers and solutions to common letter-writing situations.

How Long Do I Need to Keep This? - A Guide to Receipts, Statements and Financial Clutter at Home

In most homes, paper causes clutter. And it seems to mysteriously multiply by itself. But just how long do you need to keep all those receipts, bank and credit card statements and other financial papers? Below is a handy reference that you can use for dealing with your home paper trail.

Toss after One Month

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ATM and bank deposit/withdrawal slips

How Long Do I Need to Keep This? - A Guide to Receipts, Statements and Financial Clutter at Home

·keep in a file folder until monthly statement received

·reconcile with your statement to ensure that charges and payments have been properly processed

·if for major purchase with warranty, staple receipt to the
owner's manual and file for the term of the warranty

·if for major purchase without warranty, keep receipt if item replacement cost is higher than the deductible on your homeowner's insurance policy

·if for minor purchase without warranty, shred

Cash purchase receipts

·enter into your chequebook or computer software to ensure that you are accounting for all your purchases

·if for major purchase with warranty, staple to the owner's manual and file for the term of the warranty

·if for major purchase without warranty, keep receipt if item replacement cost is higher than the deductible on your homeowner's insurance policy

·if for minor purchase without warranty, shred

Credit card receipts

·keep in file until monthly statement received

·reconcile with your statement to ensure charges and payments have been properly processed

·if for major purchase with warranty, staple to the owner's manual and file for the term of the warranty

·if for major purchase without warranty, keep receipt if item replacement cost is higher than the deductible on your homeowner's insurance policy

·if for minor purchase without warranty, shred

Toss after One Calendar Year

Bank/Financial Institution monthly statements (unless needed for home business)

Brokerage/Mutual Fund Statements (Monthly/Quarterly)

·reconcile with your annual statement

Credit card monthly statements

Credit reports

·you should request your credit report annually to ensure that all information is accurate and up-to-date, especially with regard to accounts you have closed in the course of the year

·requesting this file annually helps to prevent identity theft, so you can see who has requested the report and for what purpose

Monthly Mortgage Statements

·reconcile with your annual statement

Pay stubs

·shred after reconciling with your W-2 or 1099 (US) or T4 (Canada)

Telephone/Utility bills

Keep for 7-10 Years

Any T4 Forms - including T4E, etc. (Canada)

Annual Mortgage Statements

Supporting documentation (cancelled cheques/receipts/statements) for tax returns including but not limited to:

·donations

·retirement account contributions

·child care receipts

·alimony/child support paid or received

·medical expenses

·mortgage interest

·property tax payments

W-2 or 1099 Forms (US)

Year End statements from Credit cards (if provided)

Year End statements from utility companies (if provided)

Keep Indefinitely

Adoption Records

Auto/Home/Life Insurance policy information

·keep purchase records for as long as policy is in force

Automobile Records (ownership certificate/registration)

·keep for as long as you own your vehicle

·if annual registration required, keep only current registration paper

Birth Certificates

Business Income Tax returns, and supporting documentation, if self-employed

Death Certificate

Divorce Agreement/Child Custody Court Orders

Investment records clearly showing beneficiary information

·purchase records

·sales records

Marriage Certificate

Medical records

·Immunization records to children

Military records

Pension Plan records

Receipts for major home improvements/renovations

Receipts for major purchases that have long life expectancy (refrigerator, stove, freezer, vehicles)

Religious records

School/Education records

Tax Returns

·In the US, the IRS has 3 years to from the date you file your tax return to examine your return for errors and up to 6 years to audit your return if they suspect that you have underreported your gross income by 25% or more. There is no statute of limitations on an audit when deliberate fraud is suspected.

·In Canada, CRA advises you to keep your tax returns, Notices of Assessment, and all supporting documentation for 6 years from the date of filing your personal income tax return.

NOTE~I recommend keeping these indefinitely because they take up little space and can often be a valuable resource if there is any dispute over such things as income tax paid, child support/alimony paid or received and pension plan benefits.

Will and/or Power of Attorney

·should be kept securely in a fire-proof home safe or safety deposit box at your financial institution

Year End Investment account summaries

Now what?

Now that you know what to keep, where are you supposed to put it all?

Set up a simple home filing system to cover the basics, and invest in a couple of sturdy cardboard or plastic filing boxes for the information you should keep log-term or indefinitely.

And a final caution - when you decide that you no longer need to keep certain documents, make sure you shred them and DO NOT put them in the general trash or recycling. Sensitive financial information or personal information should always be DESTROYED to avoid any chance of identity theft that could lead to headaches greater than you can imagine.

How Long Do I Need to Keep This? - A Guide to Receipts, Statements and Financial Clutter at Home

Written by Jill Chongva of Align Your Life Organizing – Lasting Solutions for Real Life© http://www.vadiva.com Email – diva@vadiva.com Telephone (204) 489 0932

Jill Chongva is the owner of Align Your Life Organizing based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Her 15 years organizing experience, combined with her ability to multitask as the mother of 4 children under the age of 10, gives her a wide variety of skills, tips and tricks to offer her exclusive clientele. “Alignment Coaching” offers clients a non-judgemental and supportive forum for uncovering, and conquering, clutter issues.

© 2003-2005

References– Real Simple’s “Getting Organized” booklet “Organizing from the Inside Out” – Julie Morgenstern

The Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka

The tiny tear drop shaped island in the Indian ocean has become the latest hotspot for tourists. After the end of the 30 years civil war, and all the travel advisories lifted, tourists just can't wait to head out to the exotic island of Sri Lanka. The friendly and hospitable people of Sri Lanka, in their turn, with hands folded and 'Ayobowan' on their lips are ready to make your holiday the most memorable you've ever had.

Tourism in Sri Lanka can, broadly, be divided into three categories. The beaches, the cities of cultural, historical and religious importance and last but definitely not the least, the nature reserves. Do not be fooled by the size of the country. The tiny island is rich with places to visit from all these three categories. Join me as I unravel the wonders of Sri Lanka.

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The bustling city of Colombo is the largest in Sri Lanka. It is about an hour's drive from the Bandarnaike international airport. Just like other metropolitan cities, Colombo is a hub of activity. There are many places worth seeing. It being a coastal town, you can enjoy stunning views of the sea along with the throngs that head to Galle Face greens in the evening. If deserted beaches are what you are after, then you can head to other places, which shall figure later in my list. Other than that, you can visit the National museum, the National zoological gardens, and the Independence square which was built to mark Sri Lanka's freedom from the British. You can shop your heart out at Majestic City, Liberty plaza or Odel. It is easy to commute around the city, with buses, radio taxis and auto rickshaws called tuk-tuks locally, readily available.

The Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka isn't just about beaches. If you travel inland there are many treasures to be discovered. If you are a fan of the cooler climate, there aren't many places in Sri Lanka but Nuwara Eliya would definitely be one of them. Nuwara Eliya is a hill station located in the centre of Sri Lanka, just a little to the south. When Sri Lanka was under the rule of the British, this is where most of the British came for an ideal summer getaway. The impact of the colonial era can still be seen in the city, whether it may be in the nickname 'Little England' or in the architecture or in the various activities that you can immerse yourself in while there, such as boating, golf or horse riding.

Another very important aspect of Nuwara Eliya is that it is one of the most important towns as far as tea production is concerned. So be prepared to see endless stretches of tea plantation on both sides while you are approaching Nuwara Eliya. Don't forget to drop in on one of the many tea factories dotted along the way there, such as the Labukele Tea estate. The people there will gladly talk you through the process of making tea from picking the leaf, to processing it, while they show you around their estate. Prepare to be baffled by the variety and flavours of tea you can buy there.

As far as tourist destinations are concerned, Nuwara Eliya has many. For those who are familiar with the Hindu mythological epic of Ramayana, the 'Seetha Kovil' or the Sita temple would be a place of interest. According to legend, king Ravana of Sri Lanka abducted queen Sita from her kingdom in North India and brought her to Sri Lanka. It is believed that it was here, where this temple is located, that he kept her. There is a giant foot mark there as well, believed to be of Lord Hanuman. Even the direst non-believers will experience a strange and outlandish sensation overcome them as they stand there watching the lush green mist-covered hills, wondering what all this place must have been witness to for so many centuries.

Just a little ahead of the Seetha Kovil is the Hakgala Botanical Garden, which is another interesting place to visit. Spread over a large area, it is enough to keep the nature lovers out there occupied for hours.

After Colombo, the city of Kandy (called Maha Nuvara locally) is the most important in Sri Lanka. There is no shortage of things to do and places to visit here. Historically, Kandy is important as it was one of the last kingdoms to remain independent from colonization. On the way from Colombo, it will be the first major town that you encounter while travelling towards the Central Highlands.

The first thing you will notice about Kandy will probably be the huge lake in the centre of the town. Bordering this lake on one side is one of the most important pilgrimage places for Buddhists, the temple of tooth or Sri Dalada Maligawa. It is believed that, along the duration of many centuries, the holy relic of Lord Buddha's tooth after travelling many miles from India, and then within the island itself for the sake of protecting it from the people who wanted to destroy it, found its final resting place in this temple. It was declared a UNESCO world heritage site. You can see the various rituals that are performed in the temple three times a day, roughly around 5.30 and 09.00 in the morning and 06.30 in the evening.

The annual festival of the Esala Perahera, which falls on the full moon around July or August, is in honour of this relic. This whole pageant is a sight to see with the traditional Kandyan dancers, beautifully decorated elephants, fire acts and what not. It is also interesting to note that whenever the tooth relic has been taken out for public exposition, it has almost always rained.

There are many good hotels dotted around the lake on all sides. In close proximity to the temple of tooth is the modern Kandy city centre, and the shopping complex, which is a good example of the beautiful blend of modern and ancient that this wonderful town is.

A suburb of Kandy is the town of Peradeniya. It is home to the illustrious University of Peradeniya and the Royal Botanical Gardens, the largest in the island.

Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa are two towns which, together with Kandy, complete the so called cultural triangle of Sri Lanka. If you are a history buff, and are interested in the ancient heritage of Sri Lanka, these places are not to be missed. Both of these towns are UNESCO world heritage sites and were once flourishing capitals of ancient kingdoms of Sri Lanka. Anuradhapura was the first ancient capital of Sri Lanka, and the ruins that can be seen here today tell the tale of a rich and stable kingdom which prospered from 4th century BC till the 11th century AD when it was sacked by the South Indian Chola kingdom after which the capital moved to Polonnaruwa. The reign of King Parakramabahu I in Polonnaruwa was considered the golden era of Polonnaruwa.

Both towns have many temples, water tanks and ponds, stupas, statues of Kings and Lord Buddha and ruins of palaces scattered around and are definitely worth visiting to get an idea of the rich historical and archeological significance of these two towns. Not to be missed in Anuradhapura, is the Sri Maha Bodhi tree, which is said to have grown from a sapling brought in 3rd century BC from the sacred Bodhi tree in Gaya, India under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. In Polonnaruwa, the Parakrama Samudra is a place worth visiting. It is actually a reservoir which was built in the 4th century AD to keep the town self sufficient but looks as vast as an ocean, hence the name 'Samudra.'

Another definitely not-to-be-missed place in Sri Lanka and also a UNESCO world heritage site is Sigiriya or the Lion Rock. As you approach, you will be stunned at this 5th century palace which sits on top of a 600ft rock and is visible for miles around as it rears its head out in the midst of miles of lush green flat land. It is said to have been built by King Kasyapa, who feared invasion by his half-brother and built this palace for his own protection. You can marvel at the numerous rock shelters or water gardens at the base or as you climb up the 1200 odd steps to the top, gaze at the frescoes mid-way to the top and the mirror wall which once upon a time acted as a mirror for the king but now has become a place for graffiti showing ancient Singhalese script. The lion gate, called so because of the large lion paws at the entrance, leads you to the summit which is a large flat area scattered over which are the ruins of ancient palace, including an ancient throne and a pool. The view from the top is breathtaking. You can even see Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa in the distance. Often, it is so windy that you feel you'll be blow away. Do not forget to take water along with you as there are no shops on the way. Apply plenty of sun block, and wear full-sleeved clothing and a cap. These precautions are necessary not only to protect you from the blazing sun, but also from occasional wasp attacks.

There is much more to the town of Dambulla than cricket! Yes, there is an international standard cricket stadium here but did you know that this historical town also houses a world heritage site? Dambulla, located near Sigiriya, is also famous for its cave temples. These cave temples are situated around 160m above the town. The five most important caves here are clustered together and can be seen after paying a small fee for the ticket. Many guides are available who will familiarize you with the history of the place and the symbolism of the various statues of Lord Buddha and other gods and goddesses. It is interesting to ponder over the fact that some of these caves date back to the second century B.C. and were used by King Valagamba as shelter during his time in exile.

If we talk about the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka, then Sigiriya and Dambulla form the centre of this triangle. It would be wise to base yourself in Sigiriya and travel and discover Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa on day trips.

Another place worth visiting in Sri Lanka is Adam's peak, a 2,243m high mountain located near the southern end of the Central highlands. What is the most amazing thing about this mountain is that it teaches us the unity of religions. It is venerated by people of all religions alike. The mountain is also called 'Sri Pada' or 'holy footprint' which refers to the imprint at the summit of the mountain. Buddhists believe that this is the footprint of Lord Buddha, Hindus believe it to be the footprint of Lord Shiva, it is the footprint of St. Thomas for the Christians and for the Muslims it is the footprint of Adam, the first man. The best time to climb the mountain is around December to March when camps and better facilities are provided. Most of the pilgrims start climbing around midnight and reach the summit in time to see the spectacular sunrise. Make sure to take plenty of warm clothes. Pilgrims then descend immediately as once the sun comes out, the heat often gets unbearable.

Sri Lanka is rich in flora and fauna and home to many wildlife sanctuaries and natural reserves, some of which are the Gal Oya National Park where large herds of elephants can be seen, Yala National Park with one of the highest leopard densities in the world, and Ravana Ella wildlife sanctuary which contains the famous Ravana falls and caves, significant to the Hindu epic of Ramayana. All these places have stunning landscapes and are rich in natural wealth. It is hard, therefore, to select one to write about. However, Sinharaja Biosphere reserve is one of the most significant amongst these, not only because it is a UNESCO world heritage site, but also because it is one of the last few rainforests left in the world. Due to the density of the vegetation there are fewer animals to be seen but it is a botanist's dream come true for those who would like to study the plants of rainforests, many of them native to Sri Lanka.

Another place worth mentioning here is the Pinnawela elephant orphanage which can be visited on the way to Kandy. It is home to more than 100 elephants. You can enjoy the sight of the elephants happily marching their way to the bank of the river Ma Oya for their bath, which happens twice a day. You can also feed them milk from a bottle with the assistance of the mahouts or helpers. Do your bit to help out and make a donation of bananas or milk for the elephants! The whole experience of seeing these gentle giants frolic in the river will truly be unforgettable.

The country newly freed from the clutches of ethnic conflict now has many places open for tourists which, earlier, were even out of the reach of the locals. One such place is the northern district of Jaffna, locally called Yaalpaanam. It can be considered an island connected with the mainland of Sri Lanka by a narrow strip of land called the elephant pass. Jaffna has many shallow lagoons and offshore islands. One of the most important islands would be Nagadipa on which is located a holy Viharya or Buddhist shrine. You can soak up the culture and traditions of the Sri Lankan Tamils here in Jaffna. Other places worth seeing are the Jaffna fort, and the Nallur Kandaswamy temple, a Hindu temple located in the outskirts of Jaffna. Prayers are conducted here punctually six times a day, starting from five in the morning and the last prayer being at six in the evening. The best period to visit this temple would be in July/August when the annual festival is held.

It being an island, the sea is never far off in Sri Lanka. And if you love beaches then you will be spoilt for choices here. The best way to go about it would be to land at the present international airport in Sri Lanka, near Katunayke and head for the city of Negombo, after which you can travel south along the coast and discover the many coastal towns and enjoy the beaches. You will be passing through the commercial capital of Colombo, which may not be one of the best places if beaches are what you are after, but further down are the towns of Mount Lavinia, Bentota, Balapitiya, all of which have plenty of budget hotels and many activities to keep you occupied with. Further down is Hikkaduwa where you can see corals in glass-bottom boats, and Galle, not only famous for its beaches but also for an ancient fort. Close to Galle is the Unawatuna beach which is considered one of the best in the world not only because of its wonderfully musical name but because of its sheer unspoiled beauty, coral reefs and opportunities for scuba diving. Further down, the beaches of Mirissa, which is also famous for cinnamon cultivations, and Dondra, the southernmost point of Sri Lanka and home to a towering lighthouse, are hot spots for dolphin and whale watching. The Arungam Bay is famous for hosting many international level surfing competitions.

Trincomalee, a port city located on the eastern coast of Sri Lanka, boasts of the beautiful Nilaveli, Uppuveli and Red rock beaches with pink boulders. During June to September the shores of Trincomalee also becomes a hot spot for whale and dolphin watchers. There are many hotels all over Sri Lanka which are associated with this sport and can provide you with assistance to make your experience unforgettable. Not only is Trincomalee home to Fort Fredrick, the largest Dutch fort in Sri Lanka, it also has many places important for Hindus and Buddhists such as the Koneswaram Hindu Kovil and the Seruwila temple. Definitely not to be missed is the Naval museum and the Hood's tower which was a lookout point for the British navy, hence provides a wonderful 360-degree view of Trincomalee. Trincomalee is important because it is a natural harbor, in fact the fifth largest in the world. Be ready to face a few routine checkpoints as it is located within the regions that were part of the ethnic conflict.

If shopping is what you are after, then you can buy tea, available in many flavours. The local handicrafts are another option. The Batik work produced locally is stunning. Batik is a fabric art which uses wax and dye. You can buy wall hangings, sarees, and other items which are made using this art. The precious stones and jewellery available here are another thing worth considering. In fact, the town of Ratnapura (literally, the city of gems) is well-known for its rubies, saphires and emeralds. You can also take home a variety of good quality spices. There are many spice gardens dotted around the country where you can you learn more about the cultivation and uses of a variety of spices.

One small island but many reasons to visit. So head to this beautiful country on your next vacation.

The Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka

Bhavana has a master's degree in English and a bachelor's degree in Education and has been freelancing for a couple of years now. A voracious reader, she feels it is almost criminal to be without a good book to read at all times. She has an incurable enthusiasm for everything to do with travelling, cooking, learning new languages and discovering new cultures. She believes in perfection and is always striving to outdo her competition, namely her own self.

The Prudent Man Rule

Many of us have heard mention of the Prudent Man Rule, but many individuals seem confused about what it means and its applicability. This rule actually had its origin from a 1830 common law ruling in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. This case involved a controversial expenditure of funds by Harvard University, and the rule came to be the common sense guideline and fiduciary responsibility for trustees of certain types of monies, particularly those invested in trusts, such as in not-for-profit funds. Basically, this guideline called for investing monies as a prudent man would, both in terms of preservation of capital, safety, and cautious growth and protection. Because of this guideline, certain types of investments have long been considered inconsistent with this rule, and thus inappropriate to be used for certain types of situations.

While an individual may determine that for his own personal situation, he could and should take a certain amount of risk, and even speculate if he feels comfortable with it (because after all, it is his own money to risk), trustees of monies such as Foundation money, not for profit organizational funds, public sector monies, etc., should not take that type of risk. This has nothing to do specifically with the underlying company or fund or how well it might perform, but rather the degree of risk.

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Following this reasoning, organizations with monies that should be under the Prudent Man guidelines should avoid certain types of investments, such as speculative stock, naked options, put options, hedge funds (because they are far less regulated that mutual funds), mutual funds specializing in one industry or sector, aggressive funds, speculative funds, commodities, commodity futures or options, etc.

The Prudent Man Rule

We have heard many reports of all the individuals and organizations that were "swindled" by Bernard Madoff. While anyone taken advantage of in an illegal scheme is terrible, if monies invested with non profits or not for profit organizations, Foundations and Trusts, or public funds, were invested with Madoff, it was not only shameful, but a clear cut violation of the philosophy and intent of the Prudent Man Rule. Even if the Madoff funds were not "scams," they would have been considered a form of hedge fund, and certainly less regulated, and far riskier than should be considered prudent.

It is also not prudent to invest more than a specific limited percentage in a particular industry or market sector, or in any particular stock or bond, no matter how highly rated it might be. These types of monies should always be diversified to "spread" and limit risk to the greatest degree possible.

Organizations, etc., should train their Trustees to understand the meaning, ramifications and applicability of the Prudent Man Rule, and how adhering to these rules should be mandated. The Prudent Man philosophy has been around and a governing philosophy and rule for over 180 years, because it makes sense. Now we must demand that is observed!

The Prudent Man Rule

Richard Brody has over 30 years consultative sales, marketing, training, managerial, and operations experience. He has trained sales and marketing people in numerous industries, given hundreds of seminars, appeared as a company spokesperson on over 200 radio and television programs, and regularly blogs on real estate, politics, economics, management, leadership, negotiations, conferences and conventions, etc. Richard has negotiated, arranged and/ or organized hundreds of conferences and conventions. Richard is a Senior Consultant with RGB Consultation Services, an Ecobroker, a Licensed Buyers Agent (LBA) and Licensed Salesperson in NYS, in real estate. Richard Brody has owned businesses, been a Chief Operating Officer, a Chief Executive Officer, and a Director of Development, as well as a consultant. Richard has a Consulting Website ( http://tinyurl.com/rgbcons ); a blog ( http://tinyurl.com/rgbstake ); and can be followed on Twitter.

Creative Marketing Ideas For Phone Stores

To many customers, shopping for a new cell phone is a necessary evil. While it's easy to get excited about upgrading to a better model phone, customers expect pushy salespeople, confusing data packages, and ever-increasing fees and rate plans. In addition, competition in the booming cell phone market is ferocious, so if you want your store to stand out, it's important to find ways to make it approachable and unique.

1. Partnerships with TV and radio- Make your store a fun and exciting place for customers to spend time. Work with your local TV channel or radio station to host an event at your store. These events are not only heavily-promoted through commercials, but the organization also brings tents, banners, yard signs, giveaways, etc., to get the attention of passers-by. The longer customers are at your store, the better the chance you have to make a sale.


2. New phone launch events- When the hot new phone is about to be released, promote it at your store using graphics on your windows. Window clings work best since they're not adhesive and can be removed when finished-show a picture of the phone and list the day of its launch. Have a special offer on the big day, like the first X amount of customers get a free case or a discount. This builds excitement and buzz not only about the product but also about your store. Your goal is to have a packed store all day, so consider holding a drawing for a free phone if it gets customers through your doors.


3. Used phone recycling/donation- This is more of a convenience than anything, but make sure you have a place for customers to donate or recycle their old phones in your store. Offer customers who donate a special discount off their new phone. Promote this in your store using a vinyl banner, and let customers know where their phone will be going (recycling center, or even repurposed for soldiers on deployment, needy families, etc.).


4. Mobile marketing- Utilize the power of mobile marketing by ordering car signs for your vehicle as well as those of your employees. Car magnets are affordable and can be removed, but the product that will get the most impact is a car window decal for your vehicle's back window. This can be used to feature a picture of the brands of phones you carry, along with your store name and phone number. It's a great way to reach out to customers who might not pass by your location on a regular basis.


5. Free accessories- Another great way to stand out from the crowd is to offer free accessories or bundle deals to customers who purchase a new phone or renew their contract. Post vinyl decals in your windows that feature this offer to grab the attention of window shoppers and bring them into your store.

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Creative Marketing Ideas For Phone Stores

Creative Marketing Ideas For Phone Stores

Michael Allen works as a Director of Marketing in Boston, Massachusetts. He has worked with both large companies and small local businesses for over 20 years. His vast experience in the field of marketing positions him as an expert in helping businesses expand by using marketing tactics.

As a seasoned expert in Marketing and Branding, Michael has a wealth of knowledge in the use of retail signs and car signs. In his articles, he covers tips and techniques for effective use of Car window decals, car magnets, and car decals for small businesses.